Stagg Line 2017-2018 Issue #7 by Stagg Line Newspaper

04.13.18

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

Vol. 61 No. 7

the

NEED for COFFEE

Trips are worth saving money MariaCastillo

Teenagers crave caffeine despite risks StephanieJimenez & HannahWorkman

E WAKES UP, HE THINKS coffee. As freshman Jesse Montenegro prepares his “cup of fuel,” his day begins. Montenegro was introduced to coffee in the seventh grade after his grandmother, who is an avid consumer of the beverage, offered it to him. Ever since then, each morning is started with an energetic rush. “I need it to stay awake,” he said. Though he sleeps an average of six to seven hours per night, he finds himself dependent on caffeine. “I feel tired without it.”

“

ART BY SERINASIENG

While his father has encouraged him to stop, Montenegro feels apathetic toward his words. “He tells me drinking coffee will make you short, but I know that’s a myth,” he said. Like Montenegro, freshman Maresa Reyes was introduced to coffee because of her grandmother. “I need it for the extra boost in the morning, I won’t be as alert,” she said. Reyes began drinking black coffee two years ago, while other students tend to add creamer or milk. Without her cup of coffee she often feels restless in classes. “I can’t focus. I sometimes get headaches too.” Although she’s aware of the effects, she continues to drink coffee. “The minimum I drink is half a cup,” Reyes said. By setting a limit to herself, she finds coffee harmless. “People should be aware of what they’re consuming,” she said referring to those that consume caffeine excessively. For junior Aline Arias, coffee began being part of her breakfast since the second grade. “I drink coffee when I crave it,” she said. With the absence of caffeine in her system, she struggles paying attention in class. “Coffee makes me active, makes me concentrate.” With the recurring symptoms, Arias also suffers from headaches when she ignores her cravings. “When it happens, I cut back from coffee. I turn to water.” Senior Salvador Rivera feels that coffee makes him more attentive and eases his stress. “If I don’t have it in the morning, I’m lazier,” he said. “At night, it helps me to unwind.” Rivera believes teenagers do care about keeping track of the amount they’re consuming, but their need for caffeine can overpower their efforts. “School is stressful,” he said. “There are assignments that have to be done so we’ll try to use any method to stay awake.” As caffeinated drinks become more accessible, the chances of

exceeding the recommended amount of caffeine are heightened. While the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests teenagers consume no more than 100 mg per day, that number is often surpassed. This is, of course, not including the added sugar and calories that comes with creamer, syrup, and other ingredients companies such as Starbucks use to prepare their beverages. A 16 oz mocha frappuccino has 61g of sugar and 410 calories.

“I drink coffee when I crave it. Coffee makes me active, makes me concentrate.”

AlineArias Junior

“Back when I was a kid we didn’t have Starbucks,” said Mary Stoner, an English teacher. Her first time consuming coffee was when she was 14, though she wasn’t immediately hooked. It wasn’t until college when she fell into the craze. “I had coffee every day. Pop wasn’t doing it for me. I needed the extra sugar, I needed the extra caffeine,” Stoner said. Twenty years later, she began suffering from an acid reflux. “My body couldn’t ingest coffee because of its acidity,” Stoner said, forcing her to put an end to her usual routine. As reported by the Mayo Clinic, effects of coffee consumption include migraines, insomnia, nervousness, irritability, restlessness, frequent urination, stomach upset, fast heartbeat and muscle tremors. But those aren’t the only symptoms one has to worry about when consuming caffeine. Recently, the Council for Education and Research sued Starbucks Corp., demanding they remove acrylamide, a chemical compound, from their products or inform customers that it is used during processing. Acrylamide can potentially cause cancer. While Stoner believes it’s important for establishments to warn consumers if there are any harmful substances in their products, she also feels consumers must be mindful about what they put into their body. “There’s not enough moderation in our society.”

A trip to France, Spain or Hawaii can be someone’s dream. However, the reality of raising the money may become a nightmare. The trips, which are all planned for 2019, all cost around $3,000 and include plane ticket, hotel, touring, food, and activities. Even at a school where many of the students are lower middle class, it isn’t impossible to raise the money. “When people see the amount they think ‘wow that’s a big ticket,’ but they have to consider what it’s all paying for,” Andrew Walter, Math Department chair who is coordinating the Hawaii trip, said. The Spain trip is a “Mediterranean journey” where students will not only go to Spain but Italy as well. Raquel Prado, Spanish teacher who is coordinating this trip, said, “You see all this ancient history on one side, then you look the other way and see the modern city. It’s like being between two worlds. It’s wonderful.” Students who go to Hawaii will spend five days going to two islands: Oahu and the Big Island. Going on this trip provides the PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZETHBARAJAS opportunity to earn college credit to UC Senior Lizeth Barajas saved over San Diego. The cred- $3000 to pay for the 2017 France it is transferable and, trip. She fundraised and used most Walter said, “Not only of her birthday and Christmas money will we be engaging to make numerous payments. “It was in fun activities and totally worth it.” learning things about science, but it’s a cultural experience.” A cultural experience was exactly what France last year was for senior Lizeth Barajas. She said, “We got to hear people speak French right in front of us and we got to eat their food and learn about it.” The students got to try traditional cuisine like flammkuchen, escargot, and streaks and french fries. Other than the food, Barajas was astonished with that fact that she was really on French soil. “You can read about the history of other countries, but when you’re actually there it’s an amazing feeling.” Being able to go on these types of trips is “more than worth it,” according to sophomore Destiny Allen. She already started paying for the France trip. “At first I did think it was a lot of money, but then I thought that it’s a unique opportunity. I talked to all of my family members and they were nice enough to help me pay for it.” If you’re interested in going on these trips go to: C5 - France, A1Spain, K3 - Hawaii.

Check out staggonline.net — Karen Cervantes on France

MESA’s work pays off LeslieCoronado

From building prosthetic arms to Rube Goldberg type machines, students in the MESA program work on projects for months in order to participate in the annual MESA Day competition, which was held last month at the University of the Pacific. Many teams were able to advance to regionals, due to the school’s success at the MESA Day competition. Ariana Raygoza, a freshman, and her partner, Gabe Suchil, a sophomore, worked for two months on a prosthetic arm that could stack 42 cups in a minute. They searched the internet to get an idea of how other prosthetic arms worked before coming up with their own design, adding more unique aspects, like a glass jar, to make it more original. However, they ran into problems with the hand

Sophomore Maha Kamran works on her bridge during MESA’s build night, where students could stay as late as 6:30 to work on their projects for that weekend’s MESA Day competition.

of their arm. “We had to find a way to make sure the hand was big enough to get the cup and have it grasp it perfectly,” Raygoza said. Despite the difficulties, their design ended up winning first place for competition and second place for creativity. Nate Bones, a senior, worked on the MESA Machine, which had a chain reaction of different and dependent actions leading to the launching of a hacky sack and making it as close to a minute long as possible. Bones participated in a similar event last year, in which he got first place. Using that experience the team was able to win first place. Regionals will take place April 28 at CSU East Bay. Raygoza and Suchil won’t be able to move on to the next level, since East Bay will not be hosting the prosthetic arm competition, Bones and his team will.

PHOTO BY LESLIE CORONADO

BottomLINE AP test payments Senior packets

Cap and gown

Payments of $5 per exam and field trip forms for AP testing are due next Friday. See Susan Suarez or Darshay Smith in the Career Center to receive a form.

Cap and gown distribution will take place Thursday, May 10, in the library during lunch.

Senior packets are to be turned in and signed by Friday, May 4. To receive a packet, see Ryan Berg in room K-9.

Keep updated at our website staggonline.net

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Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

OPINION

the Stagg Line

04.13.18

STAFF EDITORIAL

Protests needed to make change I n February, the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, occurred. Since then, we have seen more people speak up against gun violence than ever before. Events like the National School Walkout called for faculty, students, parents and anyone else to walk out of school for 17 minutes — one minute for every person killed in the shooting. If we want change, we must continue to remember the tragedy and fight for those who lost their lives. In recent weeks, many are still standing, students in particular. This momentum needs to be maintained. Keeping up with events such as national school walkouts and marches will lead to positive results. We can’t only care when tragedy strikes. If we want change we need to continue to take action. Change will only come from action, and the fact that this tragedy resonated with so many students makes this topic more important and deserving of attention. The only way we can make a difference and bring positive change is to make sure that all of the students who have experienced tragedy didn’t go through it for nothing. We shall continue to fight. Another way to inspire change is to get involved in politics. Although events can help our voices to become more prominent, voting makes a larger impact. Though most high school students aren’t old enough to vote yet, pre-registering so that we will be ready is the right thing to do. If we study the issues now, we’ll be prepared once we turn 18. Through voting, our words carry more weight, our drive is apparent, and we will be taken more seriously. We will only be heard through our peaceful yet passionate words and our appropriate actions. That’s why voting and conducting protests and walkouts in support of gun con-

ART BY SERINASIENG AND KEVINGUTIERREZ

trol are so imperative to our success. It shows that despite our age, we can stand together to make a greater impact when fighting peacefully for what we value. We have to keep this momentum that has been gained sadly because of horrific events. It won’t be enough until we are heard. It won’t be enough until we make change happen.

Support women’s 3D printers choice during Times Up create new

Brianna Rodriguez Though it can be a life-changing decision a poll by the Turnaway study reveals that over 53 percent of women who have an abortion find it to be a “very difficult decision” but 99 percent said it was the right one. It amazes me when close minded people feel the need to voice their opinions on abortion. “Why don’t you just give the baby up for adoption?” “Be responsible and use protected sex.”

And my favorite of all, “Abortion should be illegal, it’s murder and no different than committing a crime.” Stripped from their innocence, dehumanized, preyed upon, these women need support through their road of both physical and emotional recovery. Just like we stand behind women from #MeToo and make sure they’re heard, we must make sure women who are for abortion are heard. Many who oppose abortion do so because of religion. Not giving a child the chance of life is against their values. Religious groups preach their teachings of loving one another, believing there is a higher God and another world after life. When tragedy strikes and loved ones are taken the notion “everything happens for a reason, they’re in a better place,” comes about. If this is true then why is abortion such a terrible thing? A religious woman is entitled to her beliefs just as any woman is entitled to decisions relative to her own body.

ART BY SERINASIENG

omen from Gabrielle Union to Emma Watson and movements like #MeToo and Times Up have paved the way for women of the 21st century. No longer holding their tongues, more women are speaking out and making sure their voices are heard. More than just sexual assault and domestic abuse, women have their strong beliefs on abortion as well. While some find it completely offensive, others support a woman having the right to choose. Ultimately, woman’s body, woman’s life, woman’s choice. Undoubtedly the birth of a child is one of the most precious gifts in life. To carry an actual human being inside of you for nine months, a human that you created, is a beautiful thing. While some can not wait to have a child of their own, others can. There’s a reason behind every choice, and with every choice comes an end result. For most women, abortion isn’t a senseless act they go through with easily. There is a complex thought process behind it.

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.

possibilities

rawing roses in a vase on a piece of paper is one thing, but what if you could 3D print it? Each petal would stick out and stand up on its own as if it were the real thing. That futuristic idea can now be done on campus. For students with an interest in this innovative technology, they will now be able to experience and learn more due the new addition of 3D printers. With grants, Marcus Sherman, Science Department chair, was able to supply the school with three 3D printers and spread the wealth with fellow teachers Andrew Walter and Jeremy Elwood. He also told other teachers and students that if they create something on the website Tinkercad within reasonable size, they can print it. Watching videos on social media of 3D printers, I would have never imagined that technology would be coming on to campus so soon and be accessible to all students. Each machine costs around $200 and each spool of the filament is another $20. Though I originally thought that to be a lot of money, doesn’t our school deserve it? We have academically acclaimed programs such as Mathematics Engineering Science and Achievement already and will soon have a coding class next year. Implementing all this new technology and having classes that teach students how to use it will help them use their creativity to actually create something. Coding is becoming more popular in the career world as technology continues to advance. It would benefit students to learn about computer science in a high school classroom rather than having to do so on their own or attempt to catch up with everyone else in college. The same goes with 3D printing. Before you print, you have to design what you’re making, which involves some engineering and mathematics. In order to construct an object that comes out the way you want it, the process involved more than just putting shapes on a screen. It takes careful planning and a good idea of how to apply geometric concepts, a trait that many should learn anyways if they’re thinking of going into a STEM career. Allowing us to learn more about that and 3D printing in a hands-on environment prepares students for the future. While Stagg may not be as technologically ad-

Stephanie Matsumoto vanced as other schools who receive much more money to fund these sort of luxuries, it’s actually up to us, the students, to make the most of what were given.When we have opportunities like this we should take advantage of them. If students show an interest in this technology or class, then we could get more grants to expand what we’ve been given so far. You don’t only get to benefit yourself by possibly finding a passion for creating with this sort of technology, but for future students who should learn and access these sort of things here at Stagg.

PHOTO BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

The printers were acquired by Marcus Sherman, Science Department Chair, and one currently resides in his classroom. The spool of filament is located on the side.

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

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

Sessions and Trump attack immigrants

Leslie Coronado

hen the Trump administration and the Justice Department sued California over three recently passed state laws, their reasoning only seemed to prove why California had passed those laws in the first place. The laws targeted by the lawsuit are as follows: One limits state and local law enforcement agencies’ ability to share information about criminals or suspects to federal immigration officers, unless convicted of a serious crime, and places limits on agents entering schools, churches, hospitals, and courthouses to detain illegal immigrants. Another prevents local businesses from allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement to look at employee records without a court order or a subpoena, a court summons; and yet another gives California officials more oversight over state-run immigration detention centers. The three laws, the sanctuary state laws, were passed with the intention of helping people make sure their families aren’t torn apart and that they feel safe in their environments, a right that should be given to anyone regardless of citizenship status. A sanctuary state is the same as a sanctuary city in that the state limits its cooperation with federal immigration officers in order to protect low-priority immigrants from deportation. It serves to make sure these individuals feel safe enough to trust the law enforcement. According to Attorney General Jeff Sessions and others, these sanctuary state laws would threaten the public’s safety and encourage illegal immigration. Also, Sessions, despite being an avid supporter for state rights,

made the point of stating that federal law is the supreme law of the land. It seems the attorney general has no problem dismissing the idea of state rights when they don’t conform to his conservative ideals. This lawsuit against California is just a piece of the larger war between California and the Trump administration. Trump recently signed a law that would raise many Californians’ taxes by restricting deductions, which led lawmakers to propose making state taxes charitable contributions, therefore fully deductible. Regarding Session’s speech in Sacramento earlier this month, Gov. Jerry Brown said that it was highly unusual for an attorney general to engage in such a political stunt and to make ridiculous and far-fetched accusations “based on outright lies, particularly a fellow coming from Alabama talking to us about secession and protecting human and civil rights.” Although not every Californian supports the mayor’s and governor’s views, a majority do. While it’s highly unusual for California to be making the case for state rights, a traditionally conservative stance, it was necessary to do so in order to protect its citizens. About 40 percent of California residents are Latino and there are an estimated 2.3 million undocumented immigrants, according to a Pew Research Center survey, meaning that these laws help a majority of their citizens feel safe within their communities and protects them and their families from being torn apart from each other. What right does Sessions and the Trump administration have to tear these families apart and to accuse sanctuary cities of hiding and protecting criminals? What right do they have to decide that all undocumented immigrants are dangerous when they haven’t lived in the same situations? When they haven’t experienced that same fear of being taken away from your family despite having lived in a country for more than a decade, following laws, and setting down roots that can’t be removed without hurting others? And as Gov. Brown said, what right does Sessions have to talk to us about secession and protecting civil rights? The answer? None.

OPINION

the Stagg Line

Lower the voting age

ART BY SERINASIENG AND DONAVINCOLLINS

n the wake of the Parkland shooting, many have turned their attention to the students who were affected and have chosen to become gun control activists. These bright teenagers have formed organizations to advocate for change and made headlines while doing so. Though it might be shocking for some to hear how outspoken the survivors are, the youth yearning for their voices to be heard is nothing new. In order for this to happen, the voting age must be lowered to 16. There is no other way for the youth to effectively make a change. During the Vietnam War, students played a major role in staging protests. They did what they could to denounce violence and call for an end to the war. The increase in student activism across the country encouraged Congress to propose lowering the voting age from 21 to 18. The amendment was sent to the states for ratification and on July 1, 1971, it officially became a part of the U.S. Constitution. Both in the 1970s and today, young people have shown a keen interest in social and political issues. It’s not uncommon to see teenagers spring into action and say what is on their mind. Their interest has seemingly increased during the Trump era, when several of the most notable issues that plague our country are issues that directly impact the youth. What’s being discussed by lawmakers right now is going to have a significant influence on our lives. It wouldn’t be fair to deny us a

say in matters that affect us. After all, we’re the individuals who are going to have to deal with the consequences of their actions. The future belongs to our generation. We must be able to play a participating role in constructing the state of our country. We can protest all we want. We can make posters and gather outside of Capitol Hill. We can shout in an effort to have our voices be heard. However, the unfortunate reality of the matter is we, as teenagers, are utterly powerless when it comes to the decisions that are being made in office. Decisions that affect our daily lives, decisions that ultimately have the ability to benefit or harm us. One may argue that a 16-year-old isn’t as informed as an adult. While it is true there are some teenagers who don’t have much interest or knowledge when it comes to politics, there are also adults who are in the same position. Allowing citizens to vote at a younger age might lead to an increase in overall voter turnout. FairVote, an election reform group, notes “the earlier in life a voter casts their first ballot, the more likely they are to develop voting as a habit.” At the age of 16, we are old enough to get our license and have a job. We are old enough to register as a blood donor and consent to medical treatment. We are old enough to lead demonstrations against gun violence. What makes us not old enough to vote?

Hannah Workman

People shouldn’t be judged by religion E ven before the Twin Towers, Osama Bin Laden and the random attacks by ISIS, my religion has been despised by many people. Verbal attacks like “you’re probably related to Osama Bin Laden” and feeling uncomfortable every Sept. 11 once put me in the shadows about my religion. Yet, now that I am older, wiser and more aware of how unique it is to be a Muslim. I’m no longer in the dark. During a time when I should have embraced my culture I felt judged in it. It was time when Ramadan was around the corner and I had to follow certain traditional guidelines. There’s a difference between being curious as to why I was wearing my cultural attire versus trying to

Sara Abdeltawab

Check out staggonline.net — Abdeltawab’s experiences

be funny about it. Walking into school wearing my hijab, a type of head scarf, and being told “I looked bomb” made me want to immediately take it off. Feeling so ashamed in my own skin was a horrible feeling. Constantly asking friends “Do I look stupid in this?” felt like an ongoing cycle. Being scared someone would yank it off also ran through my mind that day. I was accustomed to thinking everyone had a hatred for my kind, and I soon felt that I did too. The constant staring and questions from teachers as to why I looked so different that day with it on felt like attacks, even though I knew they were just questions. I got to third period that day and slowly unwrapped the scarf to reveal the me that everyone was used to seeing. I would hear stories about how my mom used to get treated when she wore hers to work, the only difference was that she wore it everyday. And then one day she took hers off too. People don’t realize little side comments could damage a person’s way of thinking about themselves and where they come from. Walking through stores and speaking in Arabic with my mom usually ends in people looking over at us wondering, “What is it they’re saying?” Maybe they’re just curious to hear a different language, but I didn’t think like that at the time. Looking back on that day when I wore my hijab to school I

ART BY SARAABDELTAWAB

04.13.18

It’s okay to express youself.

laugh at how I let little side comments or people staring at me make me feel ashamed to express my ethnicity along with my values and beliefs. I have become more open with my religion and culture since that day because I’ve realized it’s what makes me different than the next person. As an individual who comes from the Middle East I’ve realized how past events shape a majority of people’s outlook on Muslims without getting to know them first. Yet, with or without my scarf, I’m the same person. I wish I would have realized that sooner.

FEATURES

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

helps feed the competitive spirit

teaches gamers inner workings

MariaCastillo

He was looking for an adrenaline rush. He wanted a challenge. He hungered for highpowered competition. From playing simple games like Halo, Call of Duty, and Gears of War as a 4 year old to competitive playing, junior Lance Kimes has explored the gaming world and now has a national ranking. It all started when Kimes played Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare. He got placed in a clan based on his previous skill level, the Top 5 clan. After a while, he got tired of playing regular mode — he wanted something more. “I like facing people who are better than me when it comes to gaming because I know it’ll help me improve.” He has been playing Overwatch competitive for a year and a half and spends about six hours a day playing. In Overwatch competitive mode there are three regions: South America, North America, and Asia. Each region has its own rankings and players compete against each other. The rankings range from silver, gold, platinum, diamond, masters, grand masters, and top 500. “When you first start you get 10 matches and it’ll place you off of your skill level,” he said. When Kimes first started playing, he placed in silver. Now he is in the top 500 in the Playstation North American servers at N.201. You earn points by winning

PHOTO BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

Lance Kimes, a junior, is playing Overwatch with his gaming friends. He plays as the character “Mercy” in the game, as he usually does to ensure the success of the team and obtain the victory. matches, but if you lose a match you can also lose those points. Kimes said, “It was quite hard to go from silver to platinum ranking to top 500, but I did it.” Overwatch is a team game, so it’s important to trust your teammates. “You have to rely on them since there’s different roles to play,” he said. When he plays he has a group of friends who are comfortable with their roles. “There’s a healer to support you in the front lines or you have your tanks to take the bullets for you.” Kimes plays with his usual

friends because playing with strangers is unpredictable. He said, “When you play with random people their skills vary from, ‘Oh my God they suck’ to ‘Wow, they’re pretty good’ but it’s just too risky.” As Kimes sees it, “Gaming is more than just the game itself. It’s about people who share the common goal.” He has made good friends through the games he has played, so much so that they are in touch outside of playing. “It’s cool that we all like to game and we want to improve, but gaining friends that are there for you in the game and in real life is even better.”

From 8-bit to high definition graphics, the video game world has grown exponentially over the years. Although games come in various genres and can be used on different consoles, they all deliver entertainment. People of all ages play for their own reasons. Whether it is to achieve the best score, challenge friends or just have fun, gamers grab a controller and escape to another reality.

XBOX v. PS: Advantages of Each PLAYSTATION

XBOX ÒÒ Preferred by professional gamers ÒÒ More exclusive games ÒÒ Newer features offered first such as 4K ÒÒ Better layout and graphics

ÒÒ Smaller controller size is more comfortable ÒÒ More games compatible with PC ÒÒ Servers rarely crash ÒÒ More customizable parts — KenyonPierce

— RandolphScott-Holman

GRAPHIC BY DONAVINCOLLINS AND ALBERTOVALENCIA

The home version of Atari’s Pong is released.

1975

Russian mathematician Alexey Pajitnov creates Tetris.

1980

1984

Pac-Man is released and sold to arcades, the home version being released only a few months later. GRAPHIC BY JULIAROSETE

1987

The role-playing game Legend Of Zelda is released by Nintendo.

ART BY SERINASIENG

ShannonBradberry and AidanDanforth Instead of buying a premade console or gaming computer, a few students are taking the time to build their own gaming experience. Freshman Joseph Mallett struck an interest in building computers when he learned that his father built his own. Mallett was intrigued by the complexity of computer building and wanted to learn. Although Mallett only started to build his computer this year, he has gotten some experience by watching his father and older brother build their own. He further explained the simplicity of the whole process. “All the parts come separately and then you merge them together just like a puzzle,” he said. When gaming, Mallett prefers his computer over any other gaming platform. He believes that the computer has better graphics and the experience overall is more enhanced. “I can’t see myself playing on a regular console ever again,” he said. Freshman Thomas Gibbs wanted something more from his gaming system as well. His goal was to create a computer that could run multiplayer games like BattleField and League of Legends smoothly. “With a newer graphics card, I could make the graphics more intense,” he said. With newer parts for a computer, running a multiplayer game becomes more immersive for the player. “It feels like I’m actually in the game,” Gibbs said. Having learned most of the steps from friends and YouTube, Gibbs quickly built his PC. “I finished building my first computer in two days,” he said. Gibbs stresses how buying parts can get expensive and tedious. “In total, I probably spent about $1500,” he said. To cut costs, Gibbs explained how he searched for sales on multiple parts. “I went on at least 15 different sites to make sure I wasn’t getting ripped off on certain things.” Although buying computer parts can get costly, senior Chris Beaty and his friend had the idea to build one together. Beaty and his friend decided to save money so that they could build

Multiplayer makes for heated competition SaraAbdeltawab No matter how tired students may get, some make it their mission to find extra time to play video games. On a normal school night some may dedicate around an hour or two to video games alone, but when the weekend hits those hours double or triple, as well as the number of people meeting together to play. Whether it’s Madden, 2K, Fortnite or Call of Duty junior Keith Smith says there will usually be a crowd in someone’s bedroom for the sole purpose of dedicating the next nine to 10 hours of their time playing video games. “Playing video games together keeps our circle tight,” Smith said. “We’ve been playing together since freshman year. If we missed a week we wouldn’t feel right.” Smith says that when he thinks of what the weekend has ahead of him he knows it’ll be something that involves getting together with his friends. He added that out of all his friends, junior Cameron Deville is the most competitive.

1991

Sega releases Sonic the Hedgehog on its brand new Genesis system.

1994

Check out staggonline.net to hear students talk about their friendship through gaming Both Deville and Smith do admit that it could be time consuming during the weekend, saying that they dedicated almost a whole day to games once. “One time we played for almost nine maybe even 10 hours straight,” Smith said. “The only time I got up was to use the bathroom once or twice.” Junior Ricardo Favela, who is also part of the gaming group, says that gaming online with his friends is fun but getting together in person is better

because of the intensity. “Everything just becomes more enjoyable when you’re there physically with each other,” Favela said. “The game, the company, it’s all just better as a group.” When it comes to which gaming console the group prefers the majority of them say Playstation. “I have Xbox so of course I would say Xbox,” Favela said. “But a lot of people have Playstation.” Favela went on to say that

Microsoft reveals the Xbox to the public, taking its turn to fight to be the leader in home entertainment.

Warcraft: Orcs & Humans is released by Blizzard Entertainment.

Nintendo releases the Game Boy, popularizing handheld gaming.

1989

“I don’t play as much as him so I would say he’s probably the most intense when it comes to playing against each other,” Smith said. Everyone is pretty competitive with the new hit game Fortnite right now, Smith said, but Deville said when he gets together with friends his competitive side comes out when they play Madden, the popular football game for both Xbox and Playstation. “It’s all about bragging rights,” Deville said. “You want everyone to know that you’re the better player.” Although the friends aren’t able to hang out 24/7 during the weekday they still manage to make time to play with one another, even if it’s virtually. By playing virtually they are able to play with each other online and communicate through their headsets. “During the week if we want to play with each other it’ll be online,” Smith said. “Even though we aren’t there physically with one another we still get to play and we still have a good time.”

1995

Sony releases the first Playstation, competing for the top spot against the Nintendo 64 and Sega Saturn in home entertainment systems.

2001

04.13.18

the Stagg Line

Valve creates waves in the world of PC gaming with the release of Steam, allowing players to download and play games and avoiding the long lines at stores.

2004

Thomas Gibbs, a freshman, checks his 1,500 dollar computer to make sure the parts are functioning properly. their personalized computer. Within three months, they saved up enough money. “Between Christmas and our birthdays we saved all the money we got and put it together,” Beaty said. “We built it our freshman year and still have it.” Beaty’s pathway into building a better gaming experience led him to consider a future in computer engineering. “Building my own PCs showed me the other side of computers,” he said. “Right now I’m looking into classes.” Similarly Gibbs gave some thought into classes as well. “I see building computers for gaming as a step towards advanced technology.”

Video games have traditionally been played on a screen with a controller. However, mobile games that are easily accessible from the phone are on the rise. Here are the favorites of some students.

Mobile Games PHOTO BY SARAABDELTAWAB

Junior Keith Smith invites friends over for a birthday kickback where they spent time together playing video games. each night during the school week he puts in about an hour and a half of gaming time with his friends. He says that’s probably the most time he will put in during the week, but on the weekend he says he could go hours playing without even realizing it. Just like Smith and Deville, Favela says that when he and the others are playing Fortnite things start getting a little too heated. “When you have a group with you and you’re trying to

Nintendo continues to dominate the gaming world with the release of the Nintendo DS.

2003

PHOTO BY CARLOSDAVALOS

play this game, communication is key,” Favela said. “You have to be aware of your surroundings or you’ll die. And the whole point of the game is to stay alive.” Favela said that sometimes when they’re all together it could gets intense to the point where you’re yelling and jumping out of your seat. “Trying to recover from a week of not playing together makes us a little rusty,” Deville said. “It’s not the same when you try going back.”

The indie game Minecraft, developed and created by Markus “Notch” Persson, is released.

2006

2010

Nintendo unveils the Wii, a motioncontrolled game that prompts users to get off the couch to play their favorite games.

The Nintendo Switch is released, being the first hybrid mobilehome video game console.

2016

2017

Software developer Niantic Labs collaborate with Nintendo to create Pokémon Go, which quickly becomes a global phenomenon.

“It’s a very fun game that includes a lot of strategy Clash of Clans into it, while still able to keep that cartoony feel to it.” -Senior TimothyOmstead “It’s a new game that all my friends are playing I enjoy the fact that it is still very Fortnite similar to the console version” -Junior KrissyDougherty “It’s extremely entertaining and it includes all of my favorite basketball players NBA Live from the NBA” -Sophomore DestonSanchez “The little characters in the game are very cute and it is an excellent way to help Crossy Road pass by the time.” -Senior PatriciaMcGinnis

GRAPHIC BY KEVINGUTIERREZ

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

ENTERTAINMENT

04.13.18

the Stagg Line

SURVEY: 150 STUDENTS

Favorite childhood films

GRAPHIC BY SOLOMONJUAREZ

Knockoff films lack originality

Writers learn to express emotions with poetry SamanthaBaker

‘Midnight Sun’ has too similar a plot to new film, exposing trend SaraAbdeltawab

For generations there have been movies that follow the same plot line and concept as others. Whether it’s boy meets girl and they fall in love plot for a romance film or all the people die except for one person for a horror film, many movies that fall under the same category tend to have similarities. Yet, at what point do the similarities become excessive? Where do the movie writers cross the line? When the 2017 romance drama “Everything, Everything” was released a lot of people said it felt like they were watching a knock off of the 2014 film “The Fault in Our Stars.” Both movies revolve around the life of a sick girl who falls in love with a boy she has just met. The main difference between the two is in one of the films both the girl and the guy are sick but in the other only the girl is sick. Also, one film has a character dying and the other does not. Although the films do have more differences than similarities they do have their fair share of copycat moments when it comes to the overall plot. This year, another film “Midnight Sun” was released which dropped the jaws of many movie goers. If you watched “Everything, Everything” last year and then went to watch this film it would be deja vu. Both film descriptions describe a teenage girl who isn’t allowed to leave her household because of a rare disease that each of them have that could potentially kill them. Being trapped inside all day, the only way they both get to see the outside world is through their bedroom windows; in which the girls watch a boy. Eventually the characters find themselves falling in love with the boys. At this point it’s almost as if you’re paying to watch a movie you’ve already seen once before. Some may argue that they’re somewhat different because one girl can’t go out at all and the other can only go out at night, but the overall storyline is what makes them very much alike.

This movie was very similar to other films, lacking an original plot and creativity. Save your money and your time. Though trailers aren’t supposed to give out that much of the movies plot, the “Midnight Sun” trailer had beg to differ. Going to the movies I made sure to be open minded to what I was about to witness. I went in ready to actually watch the movie rather than just base my opinion off the trailer. The movie itself wasn’t as bad as I expected. It did have very few differences compared to “Everything Everything” such as the disease symptoms and endings. Yet, the plot overall still felt a little too similar to the other film. Although there are certain genres of movies that are similar because of their shared genre such as superhero movies, scary movies, romantic comedies etc. seeing how identical these two films were to each other by description and trailer made me wonder what the director was thinking. Do film directors not care if their movie is similar to another movie? Did they start filming before “Everything, Everything” came out? Questions like these run through my mind as I try finding something different in the plot to differentiate the two films. Creativity needs to show in film production and writers as well as the producers should understand that the same movie plotline are not going to entertain audiences forever.

Many poets write for the sake of expressing their strong feelings in a positive way. But for Tyler Romuar, a senior, it’s also a way for him to start opening up to others. Romuar became interested in the eccentricities of poetry in eighth grade after attending a convention, where he would have to pick apart poems and analyze them. He became intrigued by the messages burrowed beneath the surface of a poem, and the way he could express his thoughts or emotions in a unique style, with a unique format. Romuar also enjoys the different literary devices that he can sprinkle throughout his works and the rhythm he can create through a rhyme scheme. All those different aspects merged together Romuar believes captures the interest of the audience. “They read it and like how it sounds because when you read a bunch of words on paper you can get bored and tired.” In high school he decided to enroll in the Creative Writing and Production class, and he has steadily been crawling out of his shell to share his writing. Romuar has been self conscious of his works, afraid of ridicule he may face from peers. Despite his fears he continues to write poems, wanting to share. “I try my best to be open with others.” Junior Denise Morando is motivated for similar reasons, writing poetry not only as an outlet for her emotions, but also to connect with others. Morando has always had a special place in her heart for poetry, and she started writing her own at 15. Not only is she in the Creative Writing and Production class, but she also writes some pieces in her free time. The class has given her a platform from which she can share her poetry and branch out instead of keeping her words to herself. She plans to continue sharing her poetry even after high school, wanting her poems

PHOTO BY SARAABDELTAWAB

Junior Denise Morando goes over which pieces of writing she wants to submit to the Literary Magazine for publication. One of her writings titled “I Protest,” made it to the book which captured the day of the unplanned protest. to provide support or advice for those who may find it valuable. “If someone comes to me for advice, I can say ‘well read this, maybe it will make you feel better.’” Morando enjoys writing poems about a variety of subjects, from events currently affecting the world, to more personal matters in her life, to things that

simply catch her imagination. One of the subjects that she focuses on frequently in her poetry is beauty standards and also the importance of inner beauty. “It’s a circuit for my emotions, just being able to get it out on paper and share it with other people who might feel the same way as me.”

Check out staggonline.net — Morando’s thought process

04.13.18

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

SPORTS

the Stagg Line

Baseball struggles despite potential

DonavinCollins & NicholasRosete

Striking out heart issues as a child, DeShields knows he can succeed HannahWorkman

On the baseball diamond, under stadium lights, the rest of the world becomes a blur. All of the noise is tuned out, nothing else matters besides you and that next pitch. Whether it’s a curveball, knuckleball or split-finger fastball, that next pitch is all that is significant at this moment in time. For junior Treston DeShields, standing on the mound always seemed to be how he pictured his future. With his father being an avid fan of baseball and numerous family members with playing experience, it’s as though the sport runs through the bloodline. His decision to pick up a glove was only natural. “I’ve been throwing since I was in a high chair,” DeShields said, later noting that he “grew up” on the field. But his earliest years were not all fun and games. He faced adversity and is now encouraged to persevere in spite of opposition. DeShields was born with a congenital heart defect called transposition of the greater vessels, which made it increasingly difficult for his heart to pump oxygen. Doctors at the hospital in which he was born were initially unable to form a diagnosis, so he was

sent to UC San Francisco for evaluation. There, all became clear, and it was evident he would need surgery in order to survive. While doctors said the procedure would be relatively easy to perform and DeShields would be home within a month, there were some children that didn’t make it. A few of the ones who did experienced longterm effects such as stunted growth, which doctors said he was at risk of having. They also said there was a possibility he would not be able to run or participate in other physical activities. Despite all odds, DeShields is no longer affected by the condition and is in pristine health, allowing him to shine on the baseball diamond. But pristine health is not all that is necessary for success in sports; talent is equally important. As DeShields recalls making the transition to playing for a high school team, he sees that the level of competition is much higher. “During my freshman year, the first couple of times stepping onto the field were nerve-wracking,” he said. “You play for fun in juniors and Little League but in high school, it seems more serious when you first come out here.” Even with the higher standards that competing

LEADING THE WAY

at this level entails, he feels the fun is still there. Now in the middle of his third year playing for Stagg, DeShields has become accustomed to the environment and settled into his role on the team. The added pressure he once felt as a young player has minimized. “At the end of the day, I go home, I eat and I go to sleep so I’ll live,” DeShields said. “It’s more for my enjoyment and leisure.” Though DeShields has played just about every position, pitching is his favorite as he loves the rush that comes with throwing the ball as fast as possible. Looking back at his experience as an infant, DeShields believes it was a scarier time for his parents rather than him. “I don’t remember anything at all, all I know is I have a scar on my chest that tells me it happened,” he said. Although DeShields has no recollection of the incident, it has instilled a positive outlook within him, one that motivates him to persist despite the challenges that may come. “Why stop now? I already came this far,” he said. “It gave me a better idea of what it means to keep moving forward.”

Summer league swim program helps Lornson BriannaRodriguez

PHOTO BY STEPHANIEJIMENEZ

Senior Gregory Christy would like to defend his triumph that he earned last year in the SJAA championship. “I won the league championship last season … and I plan to win again.”

Senior golfer mentors sophomore OleediaHarris

Confidence and consistency. Those are the two most important things senior Gregory Christy is thinking about in a golf match. He said, “Staying confident and consistent is the key to the game.” As Christy has advanced in the sport over the years, he was also given the choice to be team captain from his coach junior year. With no hesitation he accepted the offer. “Being captain is not just about being the best. You help improve other

players’ skills too.” During Christy’s first year as team captain, one of the first players he showed the ropes to was Duane Gouveia, then a freshman. Now as a sophomore, Gouveia is considered one of the best on the team. “Duane is a really strong golfer,” Christy said. “I showed him different ways to hit different shots, and now we can relate to our swings.” Dedication is also something he showed Gouveia. They both make sure to practice at least a few times a month during off-season. Next year, coach Offield

plans on making Gouveia team captain. Gouveia gives Christy all of the credit, claiming he taught him everything he knows about golf. “Without Greg I feel like I would have been lost.” Gouveia now plans to help mentor other players as well as Christy mentored him. “I’m going to try my best to teach other kids what Greg taught me about golf.” Both Christy and Gouveia can agree on one thing. “To be good at golf you need to have the patience,” Gouveia said. “Golf was able to teach me why and how to have that needed patience.”

The ideal baseball team would be one packed with talent and potential. Most Delta King baseball players, including senior Roberto Torres, would describe their own team in this way. “As long as everyone is doing their job and our energy is high, we’re dangerous.” However, the season has been more disappointing than dangerous. The team has lost more than half of its games so far. Torres explained how they are making changes to benefit the team. “The little things like how we’re now bunting TORRES: “We’re dangerous” players from first base to second base give us more opportunities to score.” Junior Jordan Urbistondo, and others that joined from last year’s junior varsity team, were expected to replace the talent lost from players who graduated. “The varsity games are definitely more intense, with a lot more people in the stands and talent on the field.” Another addition to help turn the team’s season around were new coaches, who happened to be Urbistondo’s brothers. He describes them as strong coaches who “know a lot about the game and know how to interact with the players.” Senior Adrian Dutra also enjoys what the coaches have to offer, saying that they “teach us what colleges are looking for.” The coaches have implemented new drills into the daily practices that they did in college. Dutra had a more practical view of the team, acknowledging how the season has been off to a rough start. He believes that even though there may have been a bit more talent on the team last year, “It’s just about how bad everyone on the team wants it.” With these new coaches and tactical changes, the season still has a chance to be a successful one.

Starting from a young age junior Allison Lornson had a love for being in the water. Spending each summer at the pool, her summer hobby grew into a serious commitment. “Ever since I was little I always loved to go swimming in the summer,” she said. “Once I was introduced into competitive swimming, I enjoyed it ever since.” She began competitive swim at the age of 10 where she swam in a summer league and competed against other teams around Stockton. “Signing up for summer league is what has inspired me to love competing.” Having previous experience with swimming coming into high school, Lornson says how high school swim is similar to summer league. “We both show a competitive side,” she said. “But in high school you swim with kids who are 15 to 18 years old and during summer league there are kids as young as 5 years old swimming.” Though she is only a junior she is no stranger to competing at varsity level. This is her third year on varsity and she is only getting better. “Every day I try to improve my swimming. I push myself harder and harder and I hope by the end of the year I’ll have reached my goals.” As a sophomore she won most valuable player for swim and hopes to potentially earn it again this year. Aside from swim she plays water polo as well. “Water polo has helped me so much. It made me become an even stronger swimmer and it keeps your stamina up.” This year Lornson is very confident in her per-

formance as well as her teammates. She explains how her team is very competitive against each other. “There is always someone faster than us on another team and that pushes us more to get better and faster.” Competing in events such as breastroke, freestyle and butterfly, Lornson favors the breaststroke and freestyle since she is stronger in those two events due to her body build. “I have long legs, I can kick and use them much more than using arms.” “Her knowledge of the strokes from having swam longer than a lot of the other kids has allowed her to be one of the best swimmers on our team,” swim and water polo coach Marcus Sherman said. Every year she sees improvement in herself as well as her team. “I see us getting faster, stronger and better,” she said. Having a very supportive and competitive team she says how they all push each other to strive for first place in every competition. “This year should be a great year for us.”

PHOTO BY STEPHANIEMATSUMOTO

Check out staggonline.net— Lornson’s swim experience

Allison Lornson, a junior, works on her breaststroke during practice. The team had swimmers stand on a kickboard and use their arms to move forward.

NEWS

Amos Alonzo Stagg High School

the Stagg Line

04.13.18

Growing up in shadows Transgender students often shelter identity due to fear of public judgment from peers HannahWorkman

“

A classmate once said transgender people mutate themselves and are mentally ill.”

A senior

Years of life spent in the shadows, they hide their true identity. They hold the secret close to them, all in an effort to protect their safety. For transgender youth, this is the reality of their lives, including that of a senior, who wishes to remain anonymous. Assigned female at birth and now identifying as male, the student never felt comfortable in his own skin. During his sophomore year of high school, he realized he wasn’t born in the right body. Before arriving at that conclusion, he had been questioning his identity for quite some time. “I knew the thoughts and feelings I was having meant something,” he said. Deciphering what exactly those feelings meant was the difficult part. He struggled to navigate his way through uncharted territory. “Nobody else around me is transgender and I’ve never been taught about what it means,” the student said. Because of this, he decided to turn to the internet. “It was my only resource,” he said. Days were spent scrolling through message boards, attempting to

Spirit of activism lifts up campus AngelVasquez

During these times of mass shootings and cries of oppression PHOTO BY JULIAROSETE and injustice, many students have begun to rise up and take a As hundreds of students gathered on the track during stand fighting for what they be- National Walkout Day on March 14, members of Leadership lieve is right. Students have been presented 17 reasons why protesting against gun violence is taking action by participating in valuable. Junior Marissa Pimentel and senior Moses Richwalkouts, engaging in online dis- ardson present two of the 17 reasons. together to stand in unity for immigrants, children, course, and encouraging other stuyouth, women, families, LGBTQ and vulnerable dents to make a change in their communities. Important topics like Deferred Action for Child- communities. hood Arrivals, issues surrounding the LGBTQ+ For senior Salvador Rivera, it’s hard to pin down community, and local problems in the community what he’s most passionate about. Recently, though, have inspired students to advocate for these issues he has begun to attend board meetings pertaining to the theater needing to be repaired. Rivera is in choir they’re passionate about. After DACA was revoked in 2017, junior Vir- and has always been disappointed with the theatre’s gina Pina felt as if her “eyes were opened” to the condition. Rivera has been to marches and school issues going on in the world. “It’s not like I wasn’t board meetings. He says that to be an activist you aware about what was going on (before the 2017 have to go out and take action. announcement), but it just didn’t really move me,” “People who identify as activists and don’t do anything aren’t really activists,” he said. “If you say Pina said. Pina added that since some of the people you’re an activist, you should be doing as much as she knew and was close with were involved with you can.” It’s not only Rivera who thinks like this, but DACA, she had to show support for them. Pina attended Equity on the Mall with her also senior Vanessa Quinones said that everything classmates on Feb. 8. Pina says she felt enlight- counts. “I haven’t really attended a lot of rallies and ened after attending the meeting, and has begun to stuff like that, but I do try to repost as much as branch out about more topics. Equity on the Mall possible on Twitter,” Quinones said. “Activism is all is a rally in which valley residents and leaders come about standing up for what you think is right.”

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make sense of what he was thinking and feeling. Reading other people’s stories brought him clarity, they helped lead him down his own path of discovery. As if coming to terms with himself wasn’t hard enough, he still faces the challenge of coming out to others. Fearing judgment from his peers, he has not revealed his secret to many people besides close friends, several of whom are in the LGBT community. “Whether you’re out or not, you hear a lot of things,” he said. “People are outwardly transphobic, even though they may not realize it.” Such transphobic statements are often heard in the classroom. “A classmate once said transgender people mutate themselves and are mentally ill,” he said. Incidents like this occur on a regular basis. Another classmate, who was in the room when these comments were made, can attest to this. “I’m sure our teacher has heard, but he hasn’t addressed it,” she said. While hearing negative remarks is upsetting, he does not put the blame fully on the individual, believing instead they are simply a product of their en-

vironment. “Sometimes it’s not their fault,” he said. “Sometimes it has to do with society and social norms.” To those who may have fallen into the trap, he urges they at least inform themselves on the effect their actions and words can have. “You’re just going to stay ignorant if you don’t try to learn,” he said. “If somebody who is a part of the community is telling you something’s wrong with what you’re doing or saying, listen to them.” Although dealing with judgement from peers can be tough, it is not the only issue transgender students must face. In February, the U.S. Department of Education made the decision to put an end to its investigation regarding complaints from individuals who are not able to use the bathroom matching their gender identity. During the course of her career, Assistant Principal Kathryn Byers has had plenty of experience dealing with transgender students, who are said to have her full support. As an advocate for these individuals, she feels that everybody should have the right to use the bathroom that matches their gender identity. However, she

does acknowledge the concerns others may have. “The biggest thing we always hear as adults is rape,” she said, recalling her time at board meetings and the questions that were asked. “You’re going to allow a man to go into a female’s restroom?” Byers makes note of the statistics that show there has been no increase in rape or sexual assault cases due to nondiscrimination laws. “I think the transgender population wants to protect themselves more,” she said. “They’ll often choose to go to a secluded restroom or they’ll choose to go to a safe area for them.” While a transgender student she has seen grown up is open about their journey, she knows each individual’s situation is not the same. “We may have students who are not that self-confident,” Byers said. “This could be because they’re worried about being bullied, ganged up on, jumped or hurt.” She feels that because everybody’s story is different, it is crucial for students to hear others’, but they “also have to be willing to share theirs.”

Disability laws create inclusive environment SamanthaBaker & StephanieMatsumoto

Although people’s differences are hailed as something wonderful that makes a person unique, the harsh reality is that some differences separate people and can be viewed unfavorably. Julianna Sandoval, a junior, knows what it is to be viewed in that way, even to face ridicule. Sandoval has experienced bullying from peers as a result of her condition, achondroplasia dwarfism. Her small stature makes her the object of constant stares from other students. Others have made fun of the way she sits. During her freshman year she was recorded walking around campus by another student. “It hurts my self esteem but I have a bucket of friends at Stagg that are supportive and kind.” Sandoval’s friends lift her spirits during these times, encouraging her to be herself and to get involved in school events she otherwise wouldn’t attend. Sandoval feels that schools can try to encourage students to accept others despite their differences, and to stick up for those who are being bullied. “Our school can resonate that it’s okay to tell if someone is being bullied you’re not a rat for defending someone.” Judith Heumann, an activist and leader in the disability community, has worked over the years to combat intolerance and create an accepting environment. After catching polio as a child, she became paralyzed, only able to get around by wheelchair. This isolated her along with other students in elementary school who had disabilities. In the four-story building, she and the others were forced to learn in the basement, her only interaction with others was at weekly assemblies. The lack of inte-

gration at her school made her want to speak up against that injustice. “What I’ve been working on with many other people, is removing barriers that have precluded us from being able to be equal members of our community.” Heumann suggests that disability should also be included in the curriculum to create a more empowering environment. By giving those with disabilities a voice by telling their story, showing films, or inviting guest speakers, Heumann wants disabilities to be seen as a normal part of life. “It’s very important for younger people to not feel that having a disability is stigmatizing.” Gina Ming, chairperson of the Special Education Resource Department, also wants students with disabilities to feel included. Depending on their specific need, students have their own Individualized Educational Program and may stay all day with one teacher. These classes are for students who have more debilitating disabilities that need certain accommodations not provided in a typical classroom setting. For students who need less services, Ming sets up certain accommodations with teachers. Through integrating more students into vocational classes, they’ll be able to in classes such as physical education and even some academic classes, depending on that student’s learning disability. Ming hopes students will understand one another and use their connection to better the lives of both individuals. “Sometimes it can be difficult if a student doesn’t have the same social skills as their peers but everyone learns ... so that is hopefully something people will be accepting of and will do their best to help that student out.”

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