Stagg Line 2017-2018 Issue #6 by Stagg Line Newspaper

03.02.18

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207

Vol. 61 No. 6

the

“

We get to make flower arrangements that are pretty and pleasing to other people.”

Giovanna Lovato Teacher

New program expected to blossom next year BriannaRodriguez

Hoping to expand the agricultural program, Frank Shaw will be teaching new courses next year. Starting this year with two classes in the program, Floriculture and Agriculture Earth Science, next year’s additions will be Introduction to Agriculture and Ornamental Horticulture. “We need to make the pro-

Classes may need to shift focus

gram expand,” Shaw said. “We need to get the freshmen started on the things for officers.” Students who enjoy agriculture can also join Future Farmers of America, a nonprofit organization that promotes agricultural education. This club can help students earn scholarships for college. As of last year $2.7 million worth of scholarships were given out nationwide.

Senior Niqueolette Herron arranges a bouquet in an L-shape pattern. Each bouquet was arranged according to what was ordered by staff for Valentine’s Day.

The program’s success will be determined by incoming freshmen and underclassmen. The more students who join, the more the program can do when it comes to hands-on learning, such as gardening and flower arranging. “The class is fun because we get to make flower arrangements that are pretty and pleasing to other people,” junior Giovanna Lovato said.

PHOTO BY SOLOMON JUAREZ

With deportations increasing, stereotypes about terrorists on the rise, and legitimate protests called unpatriotic...

HISTORY keep us REPEATING our MISTAKES?

Can from

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SERINASIENG

StephanieMatsumoto

HE LIVED LIFE WITH HER family like any other American citizen until one day she was abruptly forced from home. After leaving everything except what could fit in her hands, sleeping on piles of hay in a horse stall at the Santa Anita racetrack, and being put onto a bus with blacked out windows without a clue where she was going, she hoped the nightmare would soon be over. However, it was only beginning. As sand blew into the rooms of their internment camp in Poston, Arizona, Lillie Torigoe, her four siblings, and her mother didn’t know what to expect next. That was the story Darlene Bagshaw, Stockton Buddhist Temple Board President, heard from her mother about her experience in the internment camps set up for Japanese-American citizens after the bombing of Pearl Harbor at the beginning of World War II. Though her mother was only a junior high student at the time, she witnessed horrors that no person of any age should be forced to see. Yet, this story is rarely taught in schools. The history of internment camps is at best a day’s lesson in the dense chapter on World War II. Whether it is African-Americans being suppressed from voting by being forced to take a literacy test or Mexican-Americans being deported just because of their race during the Mexican repatriation, moments like these are not heavily focused on in the curriculum. Roberto Torres, a senior, said that many historical moments are not given the focus they deserve, especially those involving America’s injustice against ethnic minority groups. He sees problems from the past still influencing today’s society. “There were injustices against minority groups in the past, so much that they still linger on in today’s youth as there are people raising their kids to have the same awful values as those in times of slavery and segregation,” Torres said. “There are too many educated people in our country for issues to be glossed over and go without resolution.” James Marrone, Social Studies Department Chair, said that studying history can help students see patterns. Especially with current issues, he can only hope that his students are able to use the past as a tool to make educated choices and make the country a “more perfect union” for all citizens. However, in order to use the past as a tool, they must have a good understanding of it, which involves knowing the unjust treatment of certain ethnic groups. “I hope students do see those patterns because then it allows them to solve some of the social ills,” Marrone said. “So if you’re going over the civil rights movement, you see what people went through so you can appreciate and understand why rights are so important.” Though Marrone understands that many parts

In the 1930s immigration agents in Los Angeles began arresting suspected undocumented immigrants by the mass. Even those who were documented were detained in an attempt to gather as many as possible. Many were loaded into vans and taken back to Mexico.

More than 100,000 Japanese-Americans were taken from their homes and put into internment camps after the bombing of Pearl Harbor as a result of President Franklin Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066. The concern was that some of these citizens might become spies.

in history are important, not every single one can be covered in a school year. However, a good teacher will find a way to fit those smaller parts into the big moments. Khalisha Perkins, a senior, believes that not being able to cover every moment of history is not the teacher’s fault. Rather, the fault should be placed on those who write the books and fail to cover topics in depth even if it puts America in a more negative light. “I think maybe the government and the people who write the books are biased and they try to cover up horrible moments by not going into detail of

After the Civil War, the 15th Amendment prohibited states from denying a male citizen the right to vote based on “race, color or previous condition of servitude.” Nevertheless, various discriminatory practices were used to prevent African-Americans from voting.

Stagg Sings

Off-campus pass

An SAT prep class will be held on March 9 in A-4 to help students prepare for the SAT May 5.

All music classes will be putting on a “Stagg Sings” event that will be taking place on Tuesday March 6, starting 7:00 p.m.

Those who have a 3.5 gradepoint average or higher can see coach Berg in K-1 after school to get an application for an off-campus pass.

StephanieJimenez

As students walked into the gym Monday, they saw the large poster with messages of hope and support to send to those in Parkland, Florida. “Pray for a better tomorrow,” wrote junior Jaeden Bowen. During the weekend, the Associate Student Body worked to plan a positive assembly to address the incidents from the Friday before. “We want to show that Stagg High School can do things right,” said Ryan Berg, ASB advisor. “That it is a good place,” Following that, ASB students then presented 17 reasons of why it’s “okay to protest against gun violence,” including the words of junior Mariele Jones: “It’s our constitutional right to protest. Let’s take advantage of that in a positive way.” Juniors Marissa Pimentel and Tenyiah Washington helped set up the presentation. “It feels good to be part of it,” Pimentel said. “Lives are getting taken away and it’s unfair.”. “Not all of us are delinquents or bad people,” said Washington, who added that the purpose of the assembly was to bring “positive awareness.” To honor the lives lost on Feb. 14, students were silent for 17 seconds. Three days earlier the “March for Our Lives” was planned for various high schools to commemorate the victims of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and to speak out for gun regulations in the country. By walking out of class and protesting together, high schools around the country showed their solidarity. Students, through social media, decided to walk out during third period. As crowds began to form on campus, so did the mayhem. Minutes after the walk, students turned a peaceful protest into a chaos, especially off campus. Fences were scaled. Rocks were thrown at police. Cars in lots were damaged. Students collided with law enforcement. Five students were arrested, according to Stockton Police Department. “I called it before it happened,” senior Richard Mallett said. He assumed before the walk took place that “kids were going to use it as an excuse to get violent.” Thinking about the victims, he added, “I don’t think they would’ve wanted the protest to go like that.” With this week’s presentation, students hope to change the public’s view of them. “We can protest respectfully and honor the lives lost,” Washington said. “What happened on Friday wasn’t supposed to go that way.”

what happened.” While bad, all parts of history are important to understand and the topics should have been covered more in depth in a classroom, she said. Students need a good understanding of the past and can do so by just having a bigger interest in the subject. “The way our country is right now I feel like if we had been paying attention to the mistakes we’ve made before we wouldn’t let it happen again. I don’t feel like we as a country pay enough attention to our past and you can’t just forget it.”

Junior Devon Turner holds a sign while students outside of the campus gates document the event with video. Police cars blocked Brookside on both sides.

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Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

OPINION

03.02.18

the Stagg Line

STAFF EDITORIAL

Walkout behavior embarrassing J

umping gates. Smashing locks. Shattering windows. This was the result of Stagg students “protesting” last Friday. In the aftermath of the school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, that took the lives of 17 students, many schools around the nation decided to rise up with those who advocate for gun control and to honor those who lost their lives in the massacre. While many other schools had peaceful protests and walkouts, a handful of our peers decided to cause havoc. We, not only as students and citizens of this country, but as human beings should be able to conduct a peaceful protest

without destroying property and disrespecting those trying to stand up for a cause. The Feb. 23 walkout was planned for students to participate in a 17 minute protest for gun control and to honor the victims from Stoneman Douglas. While some of us exited our third periods for the best intentions last Friday, those efforts were squandered by those who took advantage of the situation to get out of classes and act like fools. It’s horrible that those who decided to go out and smash other peoples’ windows, assault police officers, and jump on vehicles were selfish enough to commit such acts, especially during a time in which many

are grieving. The protest was ruined for those who actually cared, whose voices were buried underneath violent and idiotic actions, feeding the stereotype that is placed upon our age group and school. While our peers who fed into the frenzy will be dealing with repercussions, the stain of their insolence will be remembered instead of the honorable cause. Those who came out with the intention to change our country for the better should have been the center of attention. Despite the chaotic nature of the protest, a thoughtful message was delivered by students Monday morning. The speech called for us to stand as one and

Hannah Workman

set themselves up for a crippling addiction. Throughout the entirety of this ordeal, false promises have been made by countless leaders, who voiced their desires to put an end to the epidemic. The latest in a long line has come from President Donald Trump, who declared the opioid crisis to be a public health emergency in October of 2017. This has been proclaimed as a serious problem, yet no steps have been put in place to solve it. An issue that has plagued our country for decades isn’t going to disappear overnight, nor will it be solved by the decisions of one person alone. Progress occurs when a collective effort is made, when multiple forces join together to consider viable options. It’s not the easiest complication to solve, but it’s one well worth trying to, for the sake of our family, friends, neighbors and their health. In order for a solution to be found, there needs to be less talk of action and more action being taken.

PHOTO BY JULIAROSETE

Seniors Shania Larkin and Vanessa Quinones hang out of the back seat of their friend’s car, chanting things like “end gun violence” and “we want gun control.”

conduct peaceful protests, to think of those coping with tragedy in Florida instead of ourselves. At the end a rally was announced. During the rally students

from ASB stated 17 reasons why protesting for this cause was so important. The students who sought to bring light to the issue of Friday’s events while also

Action against opioid Olympics epidemic is needed unites the Korean I nations t could start off as a desperate need for relief. Perhaps one has broken a bone or gone through surgery. Maybe they experience chronic pain. No matter the circumstance, they are longing for something that will alleviate their discomfort. Those who are suffering may turn to a drug in the opioid category, which is known to produce morphine-like effects. For years, the abuse of opioids has become a growing problem in America, especially in rural communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 100 deaths occur each day due to misuse of the drug. Opioids are said to be safe when used for a short period of time and prescribed by a doctor. In addition to pain relief, the substance is known to produce feelings of euphoria. With such a powerful effect on the body, it’s no surprise people would want to keep returning to opioids long after their injury has healed. A patient is alloted a certain number of refills and it can

often exceed what is necessary. The pharmacy will continue to refill their prescription, no questions asked, until they reach that number. This is where a large part of the issue stems. If a drug is no longer needed by an individual, then it shouldn’t be distributed to them. To those who have been diagnosed with a chronic illness, opioids help make their lives bearable. Others that put this substance to wrong use could

ART BY SERINASIENG

STAGG LINE Staff & Policies STAGG LINE

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207 The Stagg Line is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, whose awards include the following: ff All-American: 22 times ff Hall of Fame ff First Place, Best of Show: 6 times ff National Newspaper Pacemaker: 7 times Stagg Line journalists over the years have won many awards and scholarships, including California Journalist of the Year, National Story of the Year and National Photo of the Year.

or most of last month, the Winter Olympics was in Pyeongchang, South Korea, only 50 miles away from what many consider one of the world’s biggest threats, North Korea. However, despite concerns the event ended up being peaceful and progressive for the two separated Koreas. At the opening ceremony, the Koreas marched together under one united flag, a moment that hasn’t happened since the Winter Olympics back in 2006. The Korean women’s ice hockey team also marked the first combined Korean team. These actions were both symbolic, showing the two countries united and working together even if it was just for the Olympics. North Korea was respectful like any country should be while competing at the event. They even had North Korean delegate and sister of Kim Jong Un, Kim Yo Jong, come for the opening ceremony and shake hands with South Korea’s president Moon Jae-in. While it’s a small yet polite gesture under normal circumstances, the moment signifies more than what meets the eye. Kim Yo Jong’s visit to Pyeongchang marks the first time a member of the ruling Kim dynasty has traveled to South Korea since the end of the Korean War back in 1953. The presence of high-ranking officials and players from the North also removed most worries about a missile threat during the event. This, in turn, caused people to feel less suspicious and trust that they just want to enjoy the sports and athletes. Though no South Korean president has visited the North for a few decades, this may soon change. In a rare occurrence, Kim Jong Un extended an invitation for the South Korean president to visit North Korea for a summit meeting. While there was no definite yes, which is a cautious yet understandable move, there was not a no either. This conference, stemmed from the good relations of the Winter Olympics, is proof that hope of peace and reconciliation isn’t farfetched. History was made and it’s a shame that some didn’t realize this due to their misguided judge-

calling for an informational and peaceful rally to discuss protesting deserve credit. Hopefully we can learn from the experience, not repeat it.

Stephanie Matsumoto ment that it’s just about sports. It’s one of the few times that athletes from all over the world can compete and unite in more than one way. All of those small interactions between the North and South can amount to something much bigger; perhaps, even unification in the nearby future. Looking back on past Olympics involving the two countries, such as Korean Air Flight bombing a year before the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, their interactions have not been this positive for a long time. The event signifies more than just ice skating, hockey or curling for all Koreans. For those who remember and miss their unified homeland, the thought of reunification remains alive.

ART BY LESLIECORONADO

EDITORS

REPORTERS

The Stagg Line newspaper is published monthly and distributed free to students and staff members. Our website staggonline.net is updated regularly with online exclusives.

SaraAbdeltawab & StephanieJimenez

ShannonBradberry

The Stagg Line is a long-standing open forum for free student expression. That means, student editors and reporters make content and style decisions with the adviser offering guidance.

AngelVasquez news editor

The staff editorial, which appears at the top of this page, reflects the opinion of the entire staff and therefore is not signed. A personal column is signed and reflects the writer’s point of view. Readers are welcome to submit letters for publication regarding any story published or any school issue. We will make every effort to publish any letter that is not libelous, obscene or inflammatory. Letters longer than 250 words may be edited for length. Letters may be given to any staff member, delivered to A8 or emailed to dbott@stocktonusd.net.

editors-in-chief

DonavinCollins AidanDanforth CarlosDavalos

SamanthaBaker opinion editor

SolomonJuarez

StephanieMatsumoto features editor

OleediaHarris

LeslieCoronado entertainment editor MariaCastillo sports editor

BriannaRodriguez NicholasRosete SerinaSieng

JuliaRosete web editor

AlbertoValencia

KevinGutierrez photo/graphics editor

HannahWorkman

DonBott adviser

Current and older issue PDFs are available at issuu.com/staggline

03.02.18

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

Recruiters should spill all

OPINION

the Stagg Line

oor, unsure of your future, or misguided — if you fall into one of these categories it’s likely that you’re a target for military recruitment. Military recruiters are often seen around campus behind a booth trying to convince students to join. Other times these recruiters can be seen presenting to classrooms, sugar coating the harsh reality of being in the military with promises of benefits and insurance. Sure, these benefits are provided, but when you’re doing something solely for money, just how much enjoyment are you getting? Knowing that most students at Stagg most likely don’t come from middle to upper class homes makes our campus an easy target. Recruiters likely prey on those who are in need of a guaranteed laid out future, no matter if they are interested in the work or not. The benefits provided come at a large cost, something that most recruiters tend avoid mentioning. Being in the military can literally be a matter of life or death. Furthermore, once you’re in the military they make it as difficult as possible for you to leave. Those who are set to be enlisted in the military while in high school should be shown and taught other courses of action they can potentially take. After talking to a few students who are planning to join the military I found out they all had something in common: they all mentioned the benefits they were set to receive. Most students also didn’t know what they were going to do instead of joining the military; they are so set on joining that most have no back-up plan. It’s understandable that military recruiters convincing people to join the military fill students’ heads with the beneficial side of the military; they are recruiting, after all. But when it comes to a choice that can determine life or death, these recruiters need to be absolutely honest. They shouldn’t create a fantastical idea of what joining

Angel Vasquez

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CARLOSDAVALOS AND KEVINGUTIERREZ

the military is like. Furthermore, recruiters should educate what the after-effects of the military will hold. According to the Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers given to almost 5,500 soldiers in the Army STARRS, it was revealed that the rate of major depression is five times higher among soldiers as civilians; intermittent explosive disorder, which results in episodes of extreme anger, is six times higher; and post-traumatic stress disorder is nearly 15 times higher than among civilians. Students should also be exposed to other courses they can take if

Partners should be chosen for qualities People shouldn’t pick partners based only on how attractive a baby they’ll make

Gun control is where we need to focus Oleedia Harris

alking through the halls and eavesdropping on typical high school conversations, I have heard students talk about what they want their future children to look like. More often than not, people have talked about what they want their partner to look like in order for their kids to have the certain look. They want their child to be the best looking out of the bunch. Countless times, I have heard people wanting to have kids with a different race to have those “gorgeous mixed babies.” References have been made that someone is “husband or wife material” just because they have curly hair, brown skin, eyes of a certain color, or any other specific trait, all of which is quite ridiculous. I ask myself why this might be such an important thing for some? I understand that people might have a specific “type” and that physical attraction has its value. However, this should not outweigh one’s other qualities. There should not be a hunt for which person will make your baby look the cutest. Let’s say someone decides to get together with that perfect person who seems ideal to make their baby perfect in terms of appearance. Next thing they know, their baby is born and it turns out the baby didn’t live up to the parents’ expectations. What should the parents do now? The answer is simply nothing. This should not come as a surprise to the parents. There is no perfect mixed person or flawless looking child. Everybody is different in their own way. Just because someone may look like they’ll make perfect babies doesn’t mean they will. Wouldn’t you rather want to know whether your partner is capable of being a good parent? I am sure that having a certain physical trait does not suddenly make someone perfect in all aspects. You would think that a partner who is tolerant and mature would be listed way higher than somebody that is just physically attractive. If a list were to be made of the qualities one desired in their partner, what would it consist of? Probably somebody who has a sense of humor, somebody who is intelligent and compassionate. Essentially all the things that have nothing to do with looks, qualities that truly matter. Stop fantasizing about what is yet to come and focus on who you are spending your time with now. Maybe even down the road they will be the one you will spend the rest of your life with. I’m not saying that looks can’t be a factor when it comes to picking your soulmate, but that one factor shouldn’t consume your decision to create a life with that person. I’m just saying to be more thoughtful and make sure to evaluate more than what meets the eye.

they decide the military just isn’t for them. These courses should be provided or shown in the same fashion the military tries to recruit. Whenever there is a military booth nearby, or if recruiters are to present to a class, there should also be some mention of other courses of action by teachers or counselors of a college. Teenagers shouldn’t be targeted at all by these recruiters, but since they are, students should at least know that the military is not their only option. Recruitment propaganda shouldn’t be shoved in anyone’s faces at a time when students are so vulnerable.

ART BY SERINASIENG AND SARAABDELTAWAB

Check out staggonline.net — O’Neill discusses appearance

hen President Trump tweeted his condolences to the families and friends impacted by the mass school shooting on Feb. 14 in Parkland, Florida, he reminded Americans that they “must always report such instances to authorities, again and again!” In a speech the next day, he called upon children in America “who feel lost, alone, confused, or even scared” to reach out for help, reminding them that they are loved and cared for by the people in their lives. Not once in his words did he bring up guns. But he mentioned how he is devoted to tackling the national epidemic of mental illnesses. Many people like to jump to the conclusion that depression and schizophrenia, to name two, are the reasons young adults and teens feel trapped and lash out at their classmates and others. It seems that those with mental illnesses should be barred from being able to purchase firearms. Yet, the form that must be filled out to purchase a gun, ATF Form 4437, asks if the person has “ever been adjudicated as a mental defective,” meaning found mentally unstable by a judge, or “been committed to a mental institution.” The lack of regulations in many states and improper diagnosis are a deadly combination. If all of these shooters have some mental illness that caused them to lash out, then the lack of gun reform by politicians to create legislation that will bar mentally ill people from purchasing firearms is what is killing many of these innocent people. According to the New York Times, this shooting was the deadliest school shooting since that at Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012 when a gunman killed

“

Julia Rosete

Let the focus of this discussion be not only on mental illness but also gun control.” 26 students and adults, but lawmakers still can’t come up with a plan to keep guns out of the hands of people who might become the next killer. Let the focus of this discussion be not only on mental illness but also gun control. Every school shooting is blamed on those who are suffering, and yet when I turn 18 later this year, I just have to check a box that says I’ve never been declared to have a mental illness in a court of law or spent time in a psychiatric hospital. If the problem is keeping guns out of these people’s hands, then it shouldn’t be as easy as checking a box on paperwork to purchase a firearm.

FEATURES

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

Taking the

SELLING ART

Gonzalez profits from creativity

FIRST STEP

on the career path When it comes to being an ENTREPRENEUR, many young people think they have to wait until they are older. However, some students are starting early, turning HOBBIES into CAREERS. Here are some students who are investing their time now to get a head start on their FUTURE. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JULIAROSETE

Watching “Pokemon” at the age of 6, Giselle Gonzalez, a junior, never expected that the cartoon would help inspire her to create her own works of art. At that time she would often draw her favorite Pokemons, Bulbasaur, Jigglypuff and Haunter. As Gonzalez grew older her cousin became her inspiration, and through her cousin’s hobby of drawing anime she was able to learn some more skills such as how to draw faces and bodies. Now in high school artists such as Rebecca Sugar, the creator of “Steven Universe” have become her inspiration. Gonzalez enjoys drawing mythical creatures such as trolls and goblins and characters that she creates herself. “It helps me express how I feel, from my emotions to what I’m thinking.” Gonzalez also sells her artwork nowadays. After joining Amino, a community network app, she saw other members selling their art on the platform. Her friend, who also used the app, encouraged Gonzalez to start selling her own art. She would make a post displaying her art to gain awareness, and other members would then message her, asking her to make them whatever it is they desired. Selling them for a penny when she first began, Gonzalez now sells them for up to $10, although most of her works she’ll do for free. She takes commissions, where members on the app will ask her to draw a certain character or she’ll create something based on a description they give her. In the last two months Gonzalez has done 110 commissions. She often sketches in class, then goes home to finish the products on her computer. “The commissions helps me improve my art, while saving up money for stuff.” As with any business Gonzalez has had problems with customers. Sometimes they’ll complain that she has made a mistake on the piece or that it’s not what they had asked for; they’ll demand a refund. At times like that she remains calm and gives them their money back. “Just go with the flow, just give them back a

From collecting to trading to selling, senior Michael Herrera does it all when it comes to shoes. Owning over 30 pairs, Herrera loves every aspect of the “shoe game.” “I like selling shoes, it’s cool to make money off of it,” he said. “But it’s hard at the same time, you have to put yourself out there.” Just like any other vocation he had to build his business from the ground up. Growing his social following, finding money to buy shoes, and looking for different shoes that fit the taste for each individual were some of the many issues he had to face while starting up his business. Herrera goes through different processes when either purchasing, selling or trading shoes. When buying shoes for his collection he joins Facebook groups with other shoe lovers and will purchase from them. When he plans on reselling shoes he buys from a sneaker selling and trading website, Sole Supremacy. His collection began with one pair of shoes in the eighth grade. A pair of 5lab3 Jordans. “My best friend Tavian and I were talking about this pair of shoes. I actually liked them,” Herrera said. “He flaked on buying them so I bought them. Ever since then I started buying shoes.” With those one pair of shoes, he found his trade. To grow his following and put his business out there he has various social media accounts.

Camacho keeps busy with weekend work Weekends for Damaris Camacho aren’t for sleeping in. The senior must jump out of bed at 6 in the morning to get ready for work. She began landscaping with her father two years ago when he wanted to expose his kids to something new. Camacho, along with her younger brother and sister, accompanied their dad to work not knowing what the day had in store. From picking up leaves or handing tools to her dad, it turned out that Camacho really enjoyed it. Since Camacho was a

PHOTO BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

Senior Tyler Applon untightens the bolt to check the transmission fluid of a 1992 Safari Jeep. He ends up needing to fill it up with more fluid. He practices what he wants to do in his second period class Auto Tech which is taught by Jim Griffon.

AUTO MECHANICS Applon works on cars and his future career LeslieCoronado

The day Tyler Applon crushed his foot was the same day his interest in auto mechanics began. He was 8 years old when his father started messing around with the tire of his truck, and Applon asked to help, interested. “I wanted to learn something new, something that kids don’t often do,” Applon said. So he decided to try and work on it more often, usually helping his father work on cars, which brought him to stores like AutoZone. In those stores he was able to watch the professionals do repairs, see how they fix certain issues, observe how dirty jobs would get and learn what type of clothing he would need to wear. He also learned a lot about how to fix cars from his father. While his dad wasn’t a professional mechanic, he was well acquainted with how to repair cars, like working on the tire, brake pads, oil changes, and transition, all of which Applon does. He usually charges anywhere from $15-25 for an oil change, brake rollers, rim exchange, and/or air filter, compared to more established business that can charge hundreds of dollars for doing some of the same services. Most of his customers are people who don’t want to spend the extra money on established businesses, or coaches and family. “I’ll just do it for the benefit because besides the fact that they are being generous I like to do that kind of thing, so I’m willing to take in any car that I can,” Applon said.

Coach Tep had Applon do an oil change and fix the brakes on his car because he didn’t have the time to take his car to a car shop. He had also heard that Applon was into auto mechanics and had him fix it during his auto shop class. “It was good. No complaints and it worked a lot better afterwards,” Coach Tep said. He enjoys getting his hands dirty and working with different types of cars since they all have different setups and parts, which works as a learning experience for him. It also lets him learn more about cars and how to improve the car, since there are certain things he can do to improve the car and prevent a problem from recurring. However, he dislikes how even little minor mistakes can lead to a big mess. Although people have often offered to pay him more than his set price, he cuts them off if the price is too high since it’s not too big of a deal and he doesn’t spend much money on the actual repairs themselves. He enjoys helping people out and giving them a better deal financially. In the future, he plans on getting a small job in college in a place like AutoZone or taking a few classes on auto repair. Applon’s long term goal is aiming to start a car repair business with an auto technology engineering degree. “This is something that i really have a passion in,” Applon said. “I have the adrenaline and the rush for it and I like working on cars and fixing things.”

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I don’t get to see him much during the week, so when we work together I cherish that time.” DamarisCamacho Senior

Herrera makes business of sneakers BriannaRodriguez

LANDSCAPING MariaCastillo

SOLE PROPRIETOR

SamanthaBaker

beginner, her dad didn’t let her do much. She said, “It was kind of frustrating because he would tell me to just pick up stuff when I wanted to get straight to work.” Now, Camacho mows the lawn, trims bushes, or gets the branches off the trees. Landscaping has taught Camacho a couple things. She said, “I’ve learned how to talk with other people, how businesses go down, and it helps expand the amount of people you know.” “Oh and I learned how to mow the lawn perfectly,” she laughed. The way they get customers is like this: her dad meets people, they call him, and then a verbal contract is made. “(In the contract) they basically say, ‘I’ll pay you a certain amount for certain work that you do,’” Camacho said. They sometimes work in Stockton, but mostly travel to Manteca. Camacho gets paid up to $100 by her dad every six months. She has thought about having this as a side job in the future, or even going further with it. She said, “I want to be a psychologist, but if that doesn’t work out, I have also considered making this my actual job.” She wouldn’t have thought she would grow so fond of landscaping. Because of school, she is only able to go out on the weekends. She said, “If I could do it more, I would.” Another reason Camacho enjoys what she does is because she gets to spend time with her dad. She said, “I don’t get to see him much during the week, so when we work together I cherish that time.” At first Damaris Camacho’s father would not let her do much on the weekend jobs, but gradually she has taken on more and more. Here she is trimming a bush on a Sunday afternoon in Manteca. PHOTO BY CARLOSDAVALOS

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03.02.18

the Stagg Line

PHOTO BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

It helps me express how I feel, from my emotions to what I’m thinking.” GiselleGonzalez Junior refund and put them on a ban list to not make them art again.” In the future Gonzalez sees herself creating cartoons and comics. A friend of hers has set her up with someone who works for Adult Swim, and she sent her ideas to him, who helps her to better organize them. She is planning to see where this opportunity may take her in the future.

COURTESY FROM MICHAEL HERRERA

Michael Herrera, a senior, poses with his collection of shoes that he keeps at home.

Check out staggonline.net — Herrera talks about business. “I started my YouTube channel because I saw other YouTubers and I wanted to make money from it like they do.” Being new to that platform, Herrera has only three videos on his channel @Sneakerheadmikie. His channel consists of videos that show his shoe collection, sneaker unboxings, and shoe cleaner reviews. Only being two months into Youtube he has already received more than 1,500 views. Selling shoes has taught him

how to be financially smart. He says how he now knows how to manage his money and invest to make profit. “I think about how much money I can spend on a pair of shoes,” Herrera said. “Then I think about how much money I can get back from it.” Although he loves dealing with shoes he doesn’t see himself having a future with it. “I’ll always collect shoes but I don’t see myself always selling them as a career.”

HAIR CUTTING Engaling, Nelson groom friends DonavinCollins

A razor buzzes. Hair falls to the floor in chunks. The client walks out satisfied and the whole process repeats. This is the typical day of a barber. Now add the daily responsibilities of school to that routine and it’ll be the typical day of the student barbers here at Stagg. As junior Junie Engaling puts it, it isn’t easy balancing school work with his barber duties, but it also isn’t hard. “Right after school, I start on my homework and finish whatever is due the next day. After that, I’ll usually cut some people, depending on how many made appointments with me.” Engaling describes the job as one he wants to pursue in the future because of how fun and easy it is. “When I’m cutting people, I don’t really think of it as job, but more as a hobby.” To pursue this career, he will need to become a certified barber. “I plan on going to a barber school in Modesto.” When he first started on this career path, he would only cut some of his friends’ hair. After seeing improvement and posting his haircuts on social media, he now has people texting him everyday asking to make an appointment. “It’s weird because I only started cutting hair three months ago. I didn’t expect for myself

PHOTO BY CARLOSDAVALOS

Junie Engaling, a junior, cuts the hair of a client at his house. He tries to be very careful when using a razor so he won’t make mistakes.

to improve this fast and have people asking me for haircuts everyday.” To be unique, Engaling offers his clients a black mask after their haircut. For those who don’t know, a black mask is used to purify the skin and keep the pores clean. “I only charge an extra $5 on top of their $10 haircut. Most of my clients end up getting it.” Another student barber, junior Anthony Nelson, finds cutting hair just as fun. But he looks at it more as a “side hustle.” “It brings in money for me right now, but I rather look at it as something I can fall back on in the future.” Nelson, who has been cutting hair for two years, has also improved. “I haven’t really messed up on people’s hair, but when I do I always find a way to fix it.” He finds that these mistakes have been beneficial to him. Nelson makes sure to never make that same one again. No matter how Engaling or Nelson look at the career of a barber, both are learning life skills they’ll need later on. Both can agree they have learned how to manage their money better. Engaling said, “In the long run, starting out as a barber right now will make my future life better and easier.”

TRAINING

Ibarra lifts clients’ spirits Meal planning, size proportions, calorie intake, supplements and most of all a strong mindset are what drive senior Manuel Ibarra and his ambition to be a personal trainer. Since his freshman year Ibarra has always idolized the idea of being strong and helping others. He says when he first started working out at the age of 15 people would come up and mistake him for a trainer. That’s when Ibarra knew being a personal trainer is what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. “I was just 15 and people started to recommend me to train them,” Ibarra said. “It was something I couldn’t refuse.” Ibarra went on to say that his future is what pushes him to keep going everyday and he always asks himself, “If I were to quit now what would happen later?” That mindset is what helps drive him go 110 percent in every workout he does when helping others. Ibarra says in order to help others with their workout needs, he gives them advice and workouts that help him. “I have eight people that I consider clients,” Ibarra said. “But within a day I’ll train at most two.” Beyond just training them Ibarra said he gives them tips on what to eat and especially what not to eat. When he first starts with a client he usually recommends different supplements and meal plans to get them started and from there letting them decide what they need from him in order to reach their goal. “A normal session usually starts with motivation,” Ibarra said. After a pep talk to get his clients going, Ibarra says they will start with a couple stretches to get them warmed up and from then on out the intensity level rises. “I want them to know I’m serious,” Ibarra said. “My main goal is to work them out to the point where they know I don’t play.” For junior Jose Correa training with Ibarra has been a ride worth staying on. “You could see how dedicated he is,” Correa said. Correa says he started to work with Ibarra right after football season ended, mainly SaraAbdeltawab

PHOTO BY SARAABDELTAWAB

Senior Manuel Ibarra spots Jose Correa as he lifts the weights up. The set he’s lifting is heavier than he’s used to, but with Ibarra there he’s able to get a set in. to get bigger for the following season. He says he feels he has become a lot stronger compared to last year. “My numbers in the weight room have all went up,” Correa said. “I wouldn’t say it’s all because of him but he is a big part of it.” Besides just helping people now, Ibarra sees himself going beyond training just eight people -- he sees himself opening up his own gym. Ibarra has been taking real estate classes at Delta to get him started on his future hopes of having a gym under his name. He went onto say he’s confident that his gym will put other gyms like Planet Fitness and InShape out of business. “It’s not just a passion this is really my life,” Ibarra said. “It helps me get away from anything I’m going through while being able to help others.”

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

ENTERTAINMENT

Finding inspiration from famous women

Celebrating women who have pushed for progress and keep breaking boundaries

ART BY SERINASIENG OleediaHarris

The women who were able to achieve the once impossible. The women who have made an impact on the world. The women who inspire others to do their best, and are now looked up to as role models. Those are the women being celebrated during Women’s History Month. For some, those inspirational women happen to be celebrities. Oprah Winfrey is known all over the world for being a talk show host, producer and philanthropist. Howev-

er, sophomore Alanah Grisby believes Winfrey is much more than that. “Oprah is such a positive role model for me,” she said. “She is an inspiration. She is black excellence.” Grisby referred back to her grandmother positively talking to her about Winfrey since she was younger. “She always talked about Oprah being such a good thing to see on TV since there wasn’t that many black people in entertainment. The fact that she is a female is the cherry on top.” Inspired, Grisby likes to follow Winfrey and her organiza-

Check out staggonline.net — Peck’s inspirational woman

tions. “I like seeing all the good she does for people. Seeing that she came up from nothing and now is giving back to people less fortunate is awesome.” Junior Sophia Peck was first introduced to her role model, Gloria Steinem, last year in her World History class. After reading about Steinem’s work in feminism and politics, Peck became inspired. “Steinem worked hard for what she believed in while passing scrutiny from so many other people.” Like Steinem, Peck’s also a feminist and plans on being involved in politics in the future. “She made sure to follow through for what she believed,” Peck said. “She helped pave the way for women everywhere.” Peck says she’ll make sure to follow the path she believes is right for herself. It’s not only women who look up to other women, as junior Jacob Stillwell also believes Women’s History Month is a great way to celebrate those who made an impact on people’s lives. One woman who is an idol to him happens to be ac-

tress Emma Watson. “She stands out as one of the most known feminist-celebrities.” He found out about Watson’s contributions to the world after reading an article in the Washington Post about her. He admires the way she supports children and equal rights. “I first read an article about Emma Watson and found out she was very devoted to feminism. It persuaded me to start following her actions and movements.” Stillwell said he also likes how Watson shares, and even protests her beliefs, in an intelligent way. “She demonstrates that speaking with intelligence is key when fighting for your beliefs and I really respect that.” That is something he wishes to follow, as intelligence is a key element to him. There are many more women who’ve helped pave the way for the generations. They inspire people to push past their limits. Thus, it’s only fitting that their accomplishments and characters are celebrated this month. Without them, the world would be very different today.

03.02.18

the Stagg Line

Black Panther claws its way to the top StephanieMatsumoto&DonavinCollins

Elegant yet deadly. In Marvel’s latest movie, “Black Panther” the protector and king of Wakanda of the same name is able to embody both traits while capturing the attention of a broad audience. The movie stands out with its fantastic balance of incorporating African culture and uncomfortable social topics while still being a fun and interesting watch. The movie not only has strong black heroes in a mostly white dominated genre, but it also gives African cultures a chance to shine. Wakanda is only one kingdom in East Africa, but its clothing and accessories are inspired from various real African tribes. The Mursi and Surma tribes in Ethiopia are one of the many tribes that were represented in the movie through the lip plates, a ceremonial body modification, that a few characters had. However, the cultural aspect steps into real life as well. Many African-American fans of the movie went to theaters nationwide dressed in traditional wear, celebrating they finally get a Disney movie of their own. “Black Panther” was also successful in balancing the amount of action and dialogue needed for perfection. What made it different, however, was the fighting style of characters. Especially now, superhero movies are released frequently, but the fighting scenes seem similar. In this one, African tribal culture was incorporated into scenes, such as the epic waterfall

matches, which made it unique. King T’Challa was portrayed so perfectly by Chadwick Boseman in ways that made him seem real. His accent brought life to the character. Each conversation focused on topics such as power among countries, diversity amid cultures, and the challenges of facing racism. In one scene, there were artifacts in a museum that were supposedly found and made by one culture. However, it was proven by Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) that Wakandans made the artifacts and the museum was just creating false information. The movie was able to recognize how sometimes history is changed in a way to represent only one culture. Though the Kingdom of Wakanda and the legacy of the Black Panther only exist in fiction, the social problems that are addressed are far from fiction and can teach others a valuable lesson.

The movie beautifully embraced the African culture while dealing with topics found in society today.

Reading novels that have stood the test of time HannahWorkman

70%

of students didn’t enjoy reading in their classes

SOURCE: SURVEY OF 35 STUDENTS

GRAPHIC BY JULIAROSETE AND LESLIECORONADO

30%

of students enjoy reading in their classes

Outstanding literature has the power to move and transform us. It can transcend many centuries, across multiple generations and touch an infinite number of lives. It can elicit feelings of hope, inspire us to take action, and expose us to worlds we wouldn’t be able to experience otherwise. A special selection of books have managed to withstand the test of time. There’s a reason why they’re celebrated by critics and considered to be classics. It’s likely they address universal themes, meaning they possess certain qualities or give messages that most are able to resonate with.“The Secret Garden,” a children’s novel published in 1911, had a lasting effect on junior Sophia Peck. She was only in third grade when she first picked up the classic, which centers on an orphan who is met with mystery and intrigue when she moves to her uncle’s mansion. “The novel is about

“

It was one of the reasons why my love and yearning for adventure was cultivated.” SophiaPeck Junior finding the good in places that may be considered bleak or uninteresting at first glance,” Peck said. Immediately upon devouring through the pages, she fell in love with the story and the ideals it promoted. “It fed my adventurous spirit,” Peck said. “It was one of the reasons why my love and yearning for a good adventure cultivated, along with my tendency to try to see things positively whenever I can.”

Literature challenges our thinking, gives us ideas to ponder, and expands our imagination. It can also teach us more about ourselves. In Peck’s experience, “The Secret Garden” was able to show her what escapades await in her future and stir up a craving for excitement in her life. To English teacher Phillip Seibel, a work that can be considered classic is “anything that can continue to be relevant throughout numerous decades.”

Seibel recalls reading “The Chronicles of Narnia” in fifth grade. He has revisited the series and finds that his ability to enjoy it now as much as he did then is a testament to how well the series was written and solidifies its place as a classic. As an adult, he is able to spot certain biblical analogies he wasn’t able to when he was younger. “I’m always interested to find out what message the author has to give and C.S. Lewis, who penned the series, was able to bring his faith into his writing,” Seibel said. He believes this story, and stories in particular, have the ability to introduce readers to different perspectives and open their minds to an endless amount of possibilities. This, he feels, is a hallmark of fine literature and what makes it so relevant to society. If one thing’s for sure, it’s that a special tale will always stay in the hearts of readers.

03.02.18

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

7 SPORTS Isaac Gonzalez is determined to improve his discus throw the Stagg Line

aiming

HIGH

LeslieCoronado

It was his junior year of high school when a friend convinced Isaac Gonzales, a senior, to try out for track and field. While the friend later quit, Gonzales stayed, entranced by throwing the discus and enjoying how the sport forces him to challenge himself constantly. He also enjoys the fact that it’s not a physical contact sport, which allows him to just focus on his techniques for throwing. “You have to keep pushing yourself everyday, practicing to throw further and further,” Gonzales said. During a typical practice session, Gonzales warms up with the entire team before going down

“

You have to keep pushing yourself everyday, practicing to throw further and further.”

During practice, senior Isaac Gonzalez repeatedly practices his discus throw. This requires that he winds up his body in order to build power for the actual throw. His personal record last year was 109.9 ft. at the Delta Mustang Invitational held at Stagg. To further his throw, Gonzalez joined wrestling to get stronger and stay in shape for track and field season.

PHOTO BY MARIA CASTILLO

Rubio pins down his first year of wrestling

Senior reflects on her love of basketball

Freshman newcomer is able to live up to high expectations NicholasRosete

ShannonBradberry

When senior Aliyaah Mercado and her friends were freshmen, they wanted to play a sport together. After some thinking, they all decided to give basketball a try. Mercado never thought she’d develop such a love for the sport. She started high school with the intentions of being a cheerleader. Basketball was the last sport she ever saw herself playing as a freshman. Mercado chose to pursue basketball throughout her high school years; her love for the sport increased more every year, and she is proud to say she has no regrets. “Basketball was one of my favorite things about high school,” she said. “Being able to travel with my friends to tournaments was something I always loved doing and the team would overall bond that way.” By playing basketball she learned that trust is something essential, not only in life but to the sport as well. “Because the sport revolves around teamwork, you really have to be comfortable with your team and that’s something I didn’t fully understand until my second year of basketball.” When Mercado started playing, she had no previous experience so everything was new to her. “I wasn’t good at all because I didn’t really know anything about the sport,” she said. “In basketball, there is a lot of restrictions and it was hard to understand the sport at first but I got better and better as the years went on.”

Check out staggonline.net— Aliyaah discusses her journey

to the field with the other throwers to practice their release. They start off with throwing the discus up in the air, focusing on the very basics of their technique, which usually consists of them spinning their bodies and breaking down the rest of the steps from there. They start with one half step and then twisting in order to stretch out their hips and get them going. But they don’t try spinning with the discus too often and instead stick to power position, which only requires a twist of the hips and releasing, since they don’t have an official coach yet. Their actual coach has been occupied with wrestling and because of that, they don’t want to try anything complicated since they might end up doing it incorrectly. “It’s kind of hard because I don’t want to throw and have it end up being wrong,” Gonzales said. However, the players try to give each other tips and help one another improve, even without the coach and only the three of them. They will have five after wrestling season ends. Since the throwers IsaacGonzales can’t really practice with it also means Senior spinning, that the distance they throw has gone down too. Gonzales currently throws the discus 80 ft. Yet, before track and field season even started, Gonzales often practiced throwing on his own, wanting to improve his personal record of 109 ft to 120 ft. Last year he finished fourth in league. Currently, he plans to improve his score by showing up to practice everyday and getting the occasional help from last year’s alumni at Delta College. The alumni were throwers from last year’s team, and they invited Gonzales to come to their campus so that they could help him. When Gonzales arrives, the players teach him how to release correctly and improve his spins. He would like to continue throwing in college and plans to go to Delta for two years and join the team.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALIYAAHMERCADO

During winter sports team picture day, Aliyaah Mercado, senior, poses for the last time. Despite the many losses the team endured, Mercado kept her head high. “Getting energetic before my games was another one of my favorite things,” Mercado said. “Singing and having a good time with my team while we warmed up before we would play made us all have a positive mindset during a game.” While playing basketball, Mercado would be the one to keep her team positive and keep the energy alive. “Whenever someone felt bad about making a mistake or something, I’d always reassure them that we all mess up and they can’t dwell one little thing, the game goes on.” One of the biggest complications she faced during basketball was managing her time between cheer. “Doing both sports at the same time was so stressful. When I had a game for cheer, I’d have practice for basketball or vice versa.” As Mercado plans out her future, she realizes basketball isn’t something she is going to continue. “I’m just going to focus on school. Basketball was fun for high school but I don’t want that to be my career.” Her senior year was by far the best she said, as she was able to display all the skills she learned throughout high school and really witness her growth among her and her teammates. The team appreciated her positive attitude and explained how she always made games and practices something to look forward to. “It really seemed like my last year of basketball flew by,” Mercado said. “I wish I could relive every moment.”

Starting a new sport is not easy. Prior to this year, freshman Sergio Rubio had no experience with wrestling. One of his friends recommended it to him and once he met with the coach and learned about how the sport works, he decided that he would give wrestling a try. “He explained that it’s a hard sport and that there are a lot of things that you have to do and I was committed to that and I wanted to challenge myself, so I did it,” Rubio said. A challenge that met him once he started to practice was the need to lose weight. “At the beginning, I had to

cut down weight and I knew that if I didn’t cut down, I would keep losing,” Rubio said. “Once I managed to cut the weight that I needed to, things got a lot easier for me and I was way more successful.” Rubio’s success did not go unnoticed as he placed fourth for the 126 lb. weight class during a tournament at Tokay. After the tournament, his coach sat down and told Rubio that he expects him to progress into higher levels of the tournaments he plans on competing in. It was at this point that Rubio realized that wrestling was the sport for him. “He explained to me that he expects me to go to Masters or make it to Divisionals, and even

PHOTO BY ANGELVASQUEZ

Freshman Sergio Rubio tries to flip his opponent over to get the pin. Rubio had to do this to make it to finals at the SJAA league tournament in February. He took second.

make it to State,” Rubio said. When a coach sets those kinds of high expectations for someone, it wouldn’t be unheard of for them to feel nervous as they move forward with their season. But Rubio says that he doesn’t feel any added pressure. “Even though he said he wanted to see me succeed, my mindset of matches did not really change,” Rubio said. “Pressure wasn’t really held against me.” In the beginning of the season, Rubio did not see himself being as successful as he eventually became. In fact, he didn’t see himself becoming anything at all in the sport. At one point, he thought he was going to give up on wrestling entirely. “I really thought that I was going to give up halfway through the season,” he said. “But I always kept pushing myself and people kept motivating me to do even better.” Rubio says that he is motivated by his teammates and the fact that he can always improve. He plans on returning to wrestling next year and recommends it to anyone who may be interested. “The environment is great, the team really acts like a family, and I enjoy wrestling, so there’s no reason that I wouldn’t want to return next year,” Rubio said. “I hope people get to understand that wrestling is a great sport to play and it helps you a lot.”

NEWS

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

the Stagg Line

03.02.18

AP classes worth challenge Motivation to succeed drives some to take on tougher classes

SaraAbdeltawab & ShannonBradberry

When it comes to picking classes many students stray away from being in what some may call “harder class.” The rumors of more classwork, homework and stricter rules can create an intimidating image of higher classes. Yet, there are those who want to tackle the challenge of being in an Advanced Placement class. “It’s a little different,” senior Joel Alvarez said. Alvarez, who didn’t take an AP English class last year, said that he wasn’t planning on taking it this year because he was intimidated from things he had heard from his peers. Yet, his his long term sub Teddy Southern from his junior year pushed him to take AP classes. With the push from his English

PHOTO BY SARAABDELTAWAB

Junior Risa Kinard is receiving input from counselor Samantha Wirzberger on what classes she should pick for next school year.

acher and little motivation from his coaches, he decided that taking an AP class was best for him. “So far it’s paid off,” Alvarez said. “Unlike non honors classes my classmates this year take their work more serious.” Alvarez added that instead of just “scratching the surface” of topics in his less rigorous classes, his AP classes go more in depth about the work he’s doing. Being in an AP class, he said, feels more of a competition between him and his other classmates, which he enjoys. He explained that taking an AP class makes him feel more prepared for college and gives him a little more experience of the challenges he might face. “At first I was a little intimidated,” Alvarez said. “But my AP classes have turned out to be two of my favorite classes that I’ve taken in high school. Junior Malia Christiano thought she couldn’t meet the expectations for an AP class, seeing her friends stress over homework was something she didn’t want to do to herself. “It’s worth all the homework and stress,” Christiano said. “It challenges me to actually think about everything I’m doing.” She believes that not everyone is equipped for the challenges. “You have to be committed and actually want to better your education.” She says if you’re not focused and serious about an AP class you can cause yourself to fall behind. AP U.S History teacher Tara Hayes says the switch from non AP to AP classes all depends on the student. She says that she has seen students be successful with the transition as well as students who haven’t. “As long as their willing to to meet the expectations they should be fine,” Hayes said. “I’ve had students who have never taken an AP class but come in here and do well.”

Senior Dylan Grace and junior Jake Moreno are constructing paper windmills. The class, AP Physics, was testing to see whose windmill would be able to pull up a weight the best. Just like Alvarez, senior Dylan Grace didn’t experience any AP classes his junior year. When picking classes for his senior year he felt that he was better off finishing his senior year with more beneficial classes.Grace explained what motivated him to add three AP classes to his senior schedule is the fact that he would be more prepared for college. “I felt like the non AP classes moved at a slower pace,” Grace said. “In AP it moves fast, but it’s actually challenging me.” He said that the AP classes offer him chances to improve on things like multiple choice and his

essay writing. He believes that taking these classes has prepared him more for the AP test compared to if he was still in non AP classes. “These classes give me real examples of what the test is really like,” Grace said. Grace went onto say that at first he was a little hesitant about taking these classes due to the summer work that he had to do, but once he actually started the class he was fine. “It’s understable that AP isn’t for everyone,” Alvarez said. “But if you find that now the classes you’re taking are really easy why not give it a try.”

Early starting time contributes to stress

Military offers seniors a choice

HannahWorkman

AidanDanforth

After high school, students have opportunities to work high end jobs without a degree. At this time seniors are receiving applications back from their desired colleges. For senior Jerry Gutierrez, he didn’t apply to a single college. During his summer break, Gutierrez dealt with two months of Cyber High. “I knew I had bad grades,” he said. Gutierrez hoped that by filling out his high school requirements that the military would accept him. Gutierrez was determined to get into the military. “The benefits of military life helped me realize that education wasn’t as important,” he said. Gutierrez would talk to his Army recruiters for help about joining. “I knew I didn’t have anything to do after high school,” he said. For Gutierrez, joining the military was about providing for his family. Senior Blaine Beckwith felt the same. He realized that going to college wasn’t what he wanted to do after looking back on his high school career. “It’s not that school work was hard, I just don’t

PHOTO BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

PHOTO BY JULIAROSETE

Elijah Menchaca (left) and Xavier Valles Florentino listen to the pitch of a military recruiter during a senior assembly in the large gym after school on Feb. 20. like doing the work,” he said. Trying to find an occupation he stumbled upon his family history. “I found out that a lot of family, my cousins, and my grandfather served in the military.” After finding out that his biological father served in the Army, Beckwith signed up for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test. Upon further research he enjoyed seeing the benefits of free education. “I can still get a free education if I wanted to, and later in life I might take advantage of that.” He settled with the Navy and is looking forward to his military boot camp later this summer.

Senior Nicholas Padilla never had any thoughts of living a civilian life. Encouraged by the benefits of the military, Padilla enlisted in the Marines. “Since I was 10, seeing my cousins in their uniform I just thought they looked so cool,” Padilla said. Padilla was fasnitated on seeing exotic places. “I wanted to do something different than everyone else.” Padilla didn’t want to ruin his chance of seeing the world by going to college. Traveling the world and being part of a bigger community was what made Padilla connect to his military training.

WeeklyGallery Check out our website for weekly galleries featuring the campus’s nature scenery, spirit week, white and gold themed boys soccer game, and cheerleaders.

It’s 7:25 a.m. You’re sitting in class, the sun is still rising. As you look around the room, you see that students are struggling to come out of their slumber. One has his eyes shut, head resting on his desk. Another can’t seem to stop herself from yawning. In 2017, California lawmakers proposed a law to mandate public schools start no earlier than 8:30 a.m., though it was eventually shelved. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends schools delay the start of class to 8:30 a.m. or later. A study by the University of Minnesota found schools that have made the change showed an improvement in attendance, grades, and overall health. Despite the findings of such research, many educational institutions have yet to follow suit, including the comprehensive high schools within the Stockton Unified School District. Senior Denise Ramirez is all too familiar with the consequences that a lack of sleep brings. “I find myself unable to concentrate in my first and second period classes,” she said. “My mind is still asleep so I’m not producing my best work.” She has also experienced

body aches as a result of her fatigue. Freshman Jeremiah Salisbury finds that students who participate in extracurricular activities have an especially strenuous day. “Playing sports, on top of waking up early for school and going to

SLEEPLESS TEENS ºº The average teen gets only 7 hours of sleep a night. ºº Teens should get at least 8.5 hours of sleep each night and only 15% of teens get it. ºº Not getting enough sleep can be harmful to a teen’s brain, social life and grades. SOURCE: sleepfoundation.org

INFOGRAPHIC BY KEVINGUITIERREZ

bed late to finish homework will have a toll on your body,” he said. Salisbury feels the cycle is demanding and there’s often not much time for anything other than business. “At my old school, classes started at 9:00 a.m. and I thought that was best,” junior Christopher Madrid said. “It allowed students to be prepared for what the day would bring them.” Madrid believes starting classes earlier takes away valuable sleep time, with only 15 percent of American teenagers reporting they sleep the recommended eight hours, according to the National Sleep Foundation. “There are more cons than pros with the way the system is set up,” he said. History teacher Susan Diohep notes the reason why Stagg starts at the time it does is due to the old busing system, which would drop off the high school students before taking the younger students to school. Now that the system no longer caters to high school students, she thinks there is no excuse for not making the change. “Pushing it back would have a tremendous effect on students,” she said. “The benefits of a later start time are shown in the research.”