The
Gryphon Gazette
September 2015
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The Student Voice of St. George’s Independent School
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Volume XIV, Issue I
Closet confidential
Gryphons say hello
Is your wardrobe dress-code ready?
to “Bye Bye Birdie”
Tighter dress code enforcement causes distress
Emma Pounders ’18
Photo: Kendall LoCascio ’17 Students pose with signs stating their dress code violation. Students have expressed irritation over the stricter enforcement.
Kendall LoCascio ’17
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unior Elle Vaughn is aware that she has received multiple referrals for dress code violations in the past, most often occurring in the hallways. “It was pretty awkward and a little embarrassing,” Vaughn said. “It usually involves some of those awkward half-grins and nods.” Her most memorable dress code infraction came during a dress code check in advisory when everyone stopped what they were doing and stood up to be looked over. “I was singled out in front of my whole home base for a strapless dress, which was covered with a jacket, and that was really embarrassing,” she said.
“It really feels like you’re being judged.” Vaughn is not the only one who has suffered awkward experiences with dress code. The new school year brought new changes to the dress code on the Collierville campus, which caused distress among many sixth through 12th grade students. Boys are now allowed to have hair longer than their collar, girls are allowed to wear sheer shirts, as long as an undershirt with at least two-inch straps is worn underneath, and all students can wear backless shoes as long as they are not athletic flip flops. “I love [the new hair length rule]. People should be able to
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he theatre department had a successful season this past school year, performing renditions of “Seussical the Musical,” “The Curious Savage” and “The Outsiders.” This fall, the St. George’s thespians, aka the Producitons, are returning with their take on a classic, “Bye Bye Birdie.” “Bye Bye Birdie” is an upbeat musical set in the ‘50s about romance and rock ‘n’ roll. Since their last season, the Producitons have undergone many changes. Former chair of the theatre arts, Mr. Marques Brown, announced his resignation late last year, thus sending the administration on a hunt for replacements. There will be three guest directors this school year, one of which being local actor and director, Mr. Brandon Lawrence. Mr. Lawrence was hired to direct “Bye Bye Birdie” in the latter part of the summer. He said that he is very excited to be working with a new group of students and looks forward to the challenges ahead. “I can see the potential,” Mr. Lawrence said after the first day of auditions. “I want to try to
look how they want, not how other people think they should,” prefect of the arts Harrison Schutt said. While students were happy about the approval of backless shoes and longer hair, there was student-wide irritation over other modifications to the dress code. While many understood the purpose of these new rules, they did not feel like they were always practical. “There is no such thing as a two-inch tank top,” sophomore Ellie Franklin said. “I would understand a one-inch tank top, but not two.”
Cont. on Page 2
make it as great of an experience as I can. Hopefully [the students] leave better than they came in.” Many of the auditionees have also expressed their excitement. “I think it was a very good choice, and it will be fun for our school to do,” senior Mary Helen McCord said with regard to the production. “I am most excited about making new friends and getting to perform with people who share the same interests as me.” “Bye Bye Birdie” has never been produced at St. George’s before, and Mr. Lawrence has never directed the show himself, so lots of hard work and new tests are at hand. “I’m excited about everything. I love musical theater and it’s a true passion of mine,” Robert Grissom, junior and member of the St. George’s Thespian Society, said. The show runs Nov. 6, 7 and 8 at the Germantown Campus Chapel and Performing Arts Center.
Photo: Emma Pounders ’18 Allie Harbert performs a monologue for Mr. Brandon Lawrence. Unlike in past years, auditions were held one-on-one instead of in a group.
Top Stories Opinion
Entertainment
• Let’s get organized! (p.6) • Artists you might have missed (p.5)
News • New disciplinary mea-
sures rule the school (p.2)
Features • New faculty brings St.
George’s to new heights (p.3)
Sports • Wooten twins excel on and off the court (p.7)
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September
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The Gryphon Gazette
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News
STAFF Closet confidential continued
Co-Editors-in-Chief
Miriam Brown ’17 Annie Vento ’17
Advisor Dr. Margaret Robertson
Layout Editor Katie Boyle ’17
Copy Editors Kendall LoCascio ’17 Laura McDowell ’17 Rachel Ducker ’17 Annie Murff ’18
Photo Editor
Katie Boyle ’17
News Editor Kendall LoCascio ’17 Carolyn Lane ’18
Features Editors Miriam Brown ’17 Annie Vento ’17
Entertainment Editor Emma Pounders ’18
Sports Editor Bayard Anderson ’17
Opinion Editor Elise Fong ’16
Web Editor
Continued from page 1
Kendall LoCascio ’17
Mrs. Underwood explained that the purpose of the dress code is to look classy, poised and polished, as well as to learn what is appropriate for various occasions now rather than later. She said that getting dressed for a professional venue should be second nature by graduation. Even though students understand the idea behind the new dress code, they have said that they often have to shop at stores geared towards adults in order to find school-appropriate clothes, voicing that there is a daily struggle to find clothing that fits the code and still allows them to feel like a teenager. Student poses with sign stating this his “The dress code should be more about shirt is untucked. A tucked shirt is comlooking good than fitting certain param- pletely acceptable. eters,” Vaughn said. “If it doesn’t look inPhoto: Kendall LoCascio ’17 appropriate, then you should be able to wear it because there are ways to look nice without looking like a businesswoman.” voted to dress code. More infractions are Students said that when walking in the noted for chewing gum and not signing in hallways, they are more often worrying and out of independent studies. about whether they will get a referral than With the new changes in dress code getting work done. brought modifications to the conse“If everybody got into trouble, then I quences as well. After the third referral, wouldn’t be as the student’s mad when I “People should be able to look parents are get in trouble,” contacted, and Mrs. Kalyn how they want, not how other the student Un d e r wo o d , must either people think they should.” the new upper have approprischool Dean ate clothing of Students, said during a class meeting brought to them or must have permission at the conclusion of last year. At the class to go home and get appropriate attire. meetings, students specifically asked for During this time, the student will be out the dress code to be enforced more con- of class, which is registered as an unexsistently. cused absence. While there are more referrals being Although many changes have already handed out this year, not all are are de- been made to the dress code already, it is
Staff Writers Sam Hyde ’16 Jacob Peeples ’16 Eric DiNicolantonio ’16 Rachel Ducker ’17 Matthew Blum ’17 Iona Yates ’17 Caroline Zummach ’18 Merryn Ruthling ’18
Do you think we missed anything? Feel free to comment on the stories on thegryphongazette.org St. George’s Independent School 1880 Wolf River Blvd. Collierville, TN 38017
Photo: Kendall LoCascio ’17
still a work in progress. “There a couple of modifications that I would like to make in the future,” Mrs. Underwood said. “Kids come in pretty regularly … sitting down telling me, ‘I think this’ or ‘This is something I would like to see different,’ and I try to make those requests happen because our situation is flexible.” New biology teacher Mr. Sam Abrams agreed that he appreciates St. George’s ability to be flexible towards students’ wishes, instead of keeping the dress code parameters rigid. “I Iike the idea that St. George’s is so young that there’s not a status quo,” Mr. Abrams said. “You can’t really say, ‘This is the way we’ve always done it,’ because there’s not a way they’ve always done it.”
New disciplinary measures rule the school
Grant Webb ’16
The Gryphon Gazette is dedicated to serving as an authentic voice for the students of St. George’s Independent School. We at the Gryphon Gazette strive to be an open forum for student expression, to act in the best interests of the student body and to embody the principles of journalistic excellence.
Student poses with a sign stating that her dress is too short. This is the most common dress code infraction.
Photo: Merryn Ruthling ’18 Juniors Isabel Correia and Will McDaniel use their phones to do their homework in the Upper School Lounge. Previously, students have not enjoyed these cell phone privileges, but those rules may become more flexible soon.
Merryn Ruthling ’18
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s the new Dean of Students, Mrs. Kalyn Underwood has modified the student handbook to include new disciplinary measures for the 2015-2016 school year. Most of the major regulations will remain the same this year, but Mrs. Underwood said that she looks forward to shaking a few things up. Last May, Mrs. Underwood organized a meeting for students to voice their opinions about changes they would like to see
happen at St. George’s. One of the ideas suggested at this meeting was the ability for students to be able to use their cell phones in the upper school and senior lounges. “That seemed like a fair request, so Mr. Peters said that would be something that he would look into, maybe around December,” Mrs. Underwood said. Several students expressed their satisfaction about this developing idea regard-
ing cell phone flexibility. “It could be a privilege given to students because it is the student’s responsibility to manage their time and grades,” Lauren Marotta said. Additionally, the cell phone tolerance applies to more than just the upper school lounges. “Mrs. Alison had said she would be perfectly fine with students using their phones in the library, so I guess that would be something that would be beneficial for freshman and sophomores,” Mrs. Underwood said. “It isn’t necessary to be texting people who have core classes at that time, but it should be OK to be looking at things on your phone if you have nothing else to do, or to be listening to music on your phone,” sophomore Carlos Rivera-Peraza said. Another change is that juniors and seniors now go to referral instead of Saturday School if they forget to sign in or out of school during independent study. This compromise allows students to arrive at school early the next morning instead of attending Saturday School for two hours. “I am excited about getting to know kids in different ways and talking to them about other things other than cells,” Mrs. Underwood said, referencing her years teaching Anatomy and AP Biology. “This is a fun new challenge for me in looking for ways that students get a voice.”
September
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The Student Voice of St. George’s Independent School
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Features 3
New faculty brings St. George’s to new heights
Mr. Sam Abrams Mr. Jason Hills
Ms. Jessica Hardy
Mr. Jordon Wells Photo: Katie Boyle ’17
New teachers (from left to right) Mr. Jason Hills, Ms. Jessica Hardy, Mr. Sam Abrams and Mr. Jordan Wells pose for a picture in front of the school during the first fire drill of the school year. These four teachers came to St. George’s from different schools and different states.
Who’s New?
Annie Vento ’17 Miriam Brown ’17
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ore than 18 new faculty members joined the St. George’s staff this fall, many of whom are new faces representing entire departments. Because of this, many branches of St. George’s, including college guidance, theater, citizenship and science, now appear brand-new to returning students. After the departure of theater director Mr. Marques Brown and the decision of choir director Mr. Dennis Darling to go part-time, the theater and choir departments shifted greatly, welcoming three new
said. “It’s just genuine conversations.” When asked what she wanted students to know, Ms. Hardy advised students to “just relax and enjoy this time.” “It’s not the end of the world,” she said. “It’s the beginning of your life.” With the departure of the Taylor family came the addition of Mr. J. Ross Peters, replacing Mr. William Taylor as the head of school, and Ms. Olivia Buffington, replacing Mrs. Taylor as the director of admissions. Ms. Buffington previously worked at
“You’re the ones that bring the school to life.” faculty members. Mr. Jordan Wells teaches middle school choir and high school theater classes, Ms. Lorraine Cotten teaches creative storytelling in the middle school and is the director of the spring play, and Mr. Brandon Lawrence is directing the fall musical, “Bye Bye Birdie.” “There’s a lot of excitement, great energy, [and] great enthusiasm to be a part of what’s going on. That’s what I love about [St. George’s],” Mr. Wells said. “Students should know that I’m here to support them, educate them, but I’m also here to bring out the best in people.” This past school year was also the last for Ms. Beverly Brooks, who was the associate director of college guidance. In her place, St. George’s hired Ms. Jessica Hardy, who has never worked in a high-school setting directly, but was previously on the college admissions board at Rice University in Houston, Texas. “I’m fresh, I’m new [and] I don’t know the backstory, so I can provide a different perspective and can engage with students as a newcomer and not have preconceived notions about who they are or what they’ve done or who their siblings are,” Ms. Hardy
Christian Brothers High School as the director of admissions there. Prior to that, she worked in college admissions at Mississippi State University for six years. “My first interaction with St. George’s was when I was working for Mississippi State as an admission counselor and I visited here,” Ms. Buffington said. “That’s how my relationship with St. George’s first began.” Ms. Buffington is intrigued by St. George’s unique three-campus model and approach
new changes to the science department, with the departure of chemistry teacher Ms. Kristi Schulz and the move of biology and anatomy teacher Mrs. Kalyn Underwood to the role of the upper school Dean of Students. Mr. Sam Abrams is teaching the sections of biology and anatomy that Ms. Underwood previously taught. He comes from a small private school in South Carolina, which he said is very similar to St. George’s. “[St. George’s] has the same tight-knit family feeling to it without sacrificing academics or what we’re here to do,” Mr. Abrams said. “You can develop relationships with students beyond the classroom instead of them being a name and a number in a spreadsheet.” After coaching basketball for four years in South Carolina, Mr. Abrams will serve as the eighth grade boys’ head coach and the varsity boys’ basketball assistant. Mrs. Kristi Schulz was replaced by Mr. Ethan Sullivan, who previously taught at Granada Hills Charter High School in Los Angeles, Calif. “I feel very supported here by everybody... just everyone makes you feel very welcome,” Mr. Sullivan said. “It’s a really positive environment.” The science department at his previous
“I love coming to work everyday, and what more can you ask for?”
to learning and is especially interested in meeting and talking with all students. “I’m excited to get to know all the St. George’s students and really getting to see who fills our halls and what makes y’all so special,” she said. “You’re the ones who bring the school to life.” The new school year also brought many
school was large and consisted of at least 30 teachers, so he likes the small science department at St. George’s and the ease of collaborating with his colleagues. “I’m just really happy to be here,” Mr. Sullivan said. “I love coming to work everyday, and what more can you ask for?”
Mr. Ross Peters - Head of School Ms. Oliva Buffington - Director of Admission
Collierville Campus
Mr. Sam Abrams - Anatomy & Biology teacher Ms. Adeline Brown - MS Science Mr. Barry Brunetti - Assistant Dean of Students & Assistant Football Coach Ms. Lorraine Cotten - MS Creative Storytelling Mr. Rohit Goel - US Math Ms. Jessica Hardy - College Guidance Mr. Jason Hills - Citizenship Mr. Scott Reall - Strength and Conditioning Coach Mr. Cory Rudolph - Maintence and Operations Mr. Ethan Sullivan - US Chemistry Ms. Yanhua “Jessie” Vann - Mandarin Chinese Mr. Julien Vincent - School Information Management Specialist Mr. Scott Vogel - Assistant US Dean of Students & Assistant Football Coach Mr. Jordan Wells - Assistant Director of Choral Arts & Theater Mr. Nick Whicker - Wellness and US Religion Ms. Nikki White - Coordinator of Athletic Events & Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
Germantown Campus
Mr. Robert Busby - 5th Grade teacher at the Germantown Campus Mr. Austin Henderson - Director of Aftercare & Summer Programs Ms. Kristin Mauney - PK Associate Ms. Julie Miller - JK Associate
Memphis Campus Ms. Catherine Deman - Library and Technology Ms. Paula Everitt - SK Associate Ms. Leslie Harden - Counselor, Dean of Students & After-Care Ms. Sarah Horton - 5th Grade Associate Ms. Caroline Motiere - 2nd Grade Associate Teacher Ms. Kristin Storz - PK Teacher
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September
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The Gryphon Gazette
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Entertainment
A girl’s guide to fashion How to make a statement in the halls
OUTFIT FIVE: The go-to
Megan Umansky ’17 ing in dress code can be a challenge. When you’re spending more time than necessary struggling to pick out an outfit in the mornings, it often doesn’t feel worth it. To solve this daily dilemma, here are five outfit ideas to ensure that you can stay in style and in dress code.
OUTFIT THREE: Lazy day
Model: Abbigayle Roberts
For a girl, being cute and stay-
Model: Hayes Franklin
OUTFIT ONE: Fresh flow
Photo: Megan Umansky ’17
For this first look, the goal is to keep it clean and simple with basic colors. Lightly-colored pants and a pastel-colored sweater looks fresh and composed. You can even wear your favorite sneakers and a necklace to spice it up. How cute!
Model: Mary Maddux White
OUTFIT TWO: Dress up
Photo: Megan Umansky ’17
Dresses always look cute, and they are easy to style because they’re just one piece! First, find a cute, flowy dress in your closet. Make sure it is dress-code appropriate, meaning it meets the length requirement of no more than one credit card above the knee. Then, pair it with a cute jacket and booties to dress it up, or dress it down with some Birkenstocks or sneakers.
You may be thinking, “How can I wear a St. George’s sweatshirt in a stylish way?” Here’s how: find a St. George’s sweatshirt in your closet, or purchase one from the Spirit Shop. Throw on some pants (my go-to is black) and a pair of shoes for the season. Since this outfit is so simple and effortless, you can wear a new hairstyle that day. Maybe try a funky braid or a bun! You can also add some sparkly earrings to make a statement.
OUTFIT FOUR: Sweet skirt
You need to watch these summer movies
Eric DiNicolantonio ’16
Disclaimer: Not all movies reviewed are appropriate for all ages. Viewer discretion is advised. chosen field agent, who would be best comith so many blockbusters being re- pared to your grandma with her undercover leased each summer, it is sometimes hard to looks and disguises. Despite appearing to be decide which ones are worth the time. Here an elderly woman on most of her missions, are three movies that you absolutely have to she displays incredible proficiency with her field-work as she works to prevent the sale of see! a nuclear weapon. The serious elements are not overshadowed by the comedy, making this a movie that a wide variety of people can enjoy. The “Ant Man” is a classic Marvel superhero movie was rather predictable from time to movie with a twist. It hits closer to home time, but it was still plenty enjoyable. than other superhero movies because of how The movie is rated R for violence, profanScott Lang is a very relatable person when he ity and sexual content. is not busy being Ant-Man. Unlike other superheroes, Ant-Man is neither a superhero with supernatural pow“Inside Out” takes a look inside the mind ers, nor an orphan with a lucrative life and of a young girl, Riley Anderson, as she grows self-made powers. He is a past criminal who into a very joyful person. This is due to the wants to correct his life mistakes, and he five personified emotions living in her brain finds a suit that allows him to shrink into who control how Riley reacts, which are Joy, Ant-Man. Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. The villain of the movie, Cross, plans to Although she has all five of these emomanufacture “Yellowjacket,” a suit with the tions, Joy controls most of Riley’s life, not same powers as Ant-Man, and use it for evil. allowing other emotions to be used unless The fight scenes in “Ant-Man” are cinematic they are necessary. However, things take a and intricate, as his size changes mid-fight. turn for the worst when Riley moves away Each of the main characters have a deep from her home, and her new home in San back-story, and you can see them develop Francisco is less than ideal, to say the least. throughout the movie as they overcome Meanwhile, inside her head, Joy and Sadsome very prevalent problems, such as faminess get lost and have to find their way back lies dealing with divorces and integrating to the headquarters of Riley’s personality, past offenders into society. preventing Riley from having any joy in her “Ant-Man” is a great movie for anyone life. who enjoys superhero movies but may want This is a kid-friendly Disney movie, yet it something more down-to-earth. still manages to be a mature-enough film for viewers of all ages to enjoy, complete with a plethora of complicated jokes and references since it delves deep into the mind. “Spy” is one of the best comedies of this “Inside Out” is a very basic yet thoughtsummer. However, being a comedy is not all provoking way of explaining how people the movie has to offer. The laugh-out-loud think, and anyone looking for a movie with humor and thoughtful nature of a spy movie a little more substance will relish in its enbalance out nicely to create a movie that will tertaining complexity. make you laugh but will also keep you on Do you think we missed anything? Which your toes. Unlike other spy movies where the pro- summer movies did you enjoy the most? Feel tagonist is a suit-clad, handsome man, “Spy” free to leave your suggestions in the comfeatures Melissa McCarthy playing a newly- ment section on thegryphongazette.org!
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Ant MaN
Inside Out
Model: Chloe Booth
Model: Blair Smithwick
Photo: Megan Umansky ’17
Photo: Megan Umansky ’17
Out of everything, I think that there is only one true way to stay in the dress code and still look and feel cute. Being comfortable in your outfit has been proven to give people confidence. Pants, a cute top and some sandals are sure to make you feel comfortable inside and out. Patterned pants and a simple top make for a fun, dynamic look. With this, you will be able to rock the halls and feel happy in your own skin.
Photo: Megan Umansky ’17
To start, find a skirt that meets the dress-code length requirement and works with lots of different tops. I usually go for a black skirt that I can pair with any tank, patterned or not. When it gets cold, you can throw on a sweater with some black tights or leggings underneath to keep you nice and warm!
SPY
September
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The Gryphon Gazette
UNCHARTED
Artists you may have missed Photo: Alec Schweitzer -@SHWHY_ (used with permission)
Skizzy Mars captivates his fans on his Red Balloon Tour. His EP, “The Red Balloon Project,” reached number 35 on the Billboard 200.
Rachel Ducker ’17
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isclaimer: Not all songs and artists reviewed are appropriate for all ages. Listeners’ discretion is advised. Often, great artists do not get the recognition they deserve. While you may have heard of Twenty One Pilots or Rixton, you probably did not pay them
much attention. This is often what happens: people hear one good song and believe that’s all there is to that artist. However, this is not the case. Take Rixton for example. You may have heard their most famous song, “Me And My Broken Heart,” but have you lis-
tened the rest of their album? It features beautiful harmonies, which blends pop music with R&B. Their songs are catchy, and their sound is hard to compare to anything on the radio. Recommended Songs: “Wait On Me, “Speakerphone” and “We All Want
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Entertainment 5 the Same Thing” Skizzy Mars is another artist who often gets passed over. He is featured in songs with artists like G-Eazy and Hoodie Allen, so people know his name, but they don’t listen to his songs. His music is a mixture of Rap and R&B. He is a very dynamic artist, and his music can range from upbeat and playful to mellow. Recommended Songs: “Numb,” “Weekend Millionaires (remix)” and “All Say” Most know the name Twenty One Pilots from their music festival performances or their song “Tear in My Heart,” but many have never listened to their music fully or have only listened to one or two songs repeatedly. Twenty One Pilots is pioneering their own genre that ranges from island music to R&B, so there is something for everyone. The two members that make up this band, Tyler and Joseph, are multi-talented, and it shows. Recommended Songs: “The Judge,” “Fairly Local” and “The Run and Go” James Bay is known for his song “Let It Go,” but this is not the only good song he has ever produced. James Bay is an amazing vocalist as well as a skilled guitarist. His sound is similar to that of Ben Howard and Hozier. Lyrically, his songs are breathtaking, and vocally, he’s like no other. Recommended Songs: “Stealing Cars,” “Sparks” and “If You Ever Want To Be In Love”
Beauty Shop is quirky and friendly (and you’ll love the fries!) Anna Harbert ’18
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t’s a Friday night, and you want to go out for dinner with friends - but no parents. A great place to chill and dine is the Beauty Shop in Midtown. Although it may seem fancy at first, the servers are friendly and are welcoming towards you from the moment you enter the restaurant until the time you leave. You may want to start off the night with some fries, which are made with truffle oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These fries are heaven on earth. If you order the summer bowl, you may be extremely surprised to see a crab decorate a bowl of mussels and clams. Additionally, the bottom of the bowl is filled with an extremely citrusy, fishy and minty broth. Whatever you do, do not drink this. You’ll thank me later. You may have to saw away at the duck, but it is absolutely worth it. You will find that, as you take bite and chew, you will taste honey, sugar and chicken. Included with the duck is a pile of spicy onion straws and grilled okra. You may describe the cheese pasta as buttery and creamy with a kick of tomato, squash and, of course, cheese. You will polish your bowl in six minutes, and you will not regret one second
Photo: Anna Harbert ’18 The caramelized duck is served with grilled okra and spiced onion straws. Fun fact: this beautiful eatery once was Priscilla Presley’s hair salon!
of it. No matter what else you do, please finish off the night with some dessert. The butter and sugar crepes, caramel cake and crème brûlée are highly recommended. The butter and sugar crepes tasted like pancakes with maple syrup. These two crepes are one step closer to world
peace. The caramel slice of heaven was a moist, three-layer vanilla base with powdered sugar sprinkled on top. Finally, the crème brûlée is caramelized to perfection with pink sugar. The cup of custard is the exact texture you dream about. You may find the parking at the Beauty Shop to be an issue, but being able
to walk around and discover all of the cool shops around Midtown is an unexpected delight. If you are on a date, you can even have some extra time with that special someone! (Wink, wink). Regardless of what you order or when you go, it is guaranteed that you will leave the Beauty Shop with your hunger satisfied.
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September
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The Gryphon Gazette
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Opinion
Let’s get organized! How to turn this...
Into this...
Photo: Caroline Zummach ’18 Annie Murff struggles to stay organized and focused. Annie needed the help of the Gryphon Gazette and the advice of fellow students and teachers.
Photo: Caroline Zummach ’18
Annie Murff gets organized at school. Annie used the tips and tricks from the Gryphon Gazette to get organized.
Caroline Zummach ’18
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rom the minute you wake up, your morning is hectic, with homework sprawled all over the house. At school it’s time to get your homework out, but you can’t remember where in the world you put it, so you get a late grade. This routine is an endless cycle that leaves you frustrated and overwhelmed. Does this sound like you? If so, have no fear, for the Gryphon Gazette is here to get you back on your feet. With tips and tricks from high school students and teachers, staying organized will be a piece of cake, regardless of your hectic schedule or past habit. First and foremost, use your planner.
“Using my planner is a big help,” junior Graham Sisson said and it really is. Make it a habit to pull out your planner at the beginning of every class and jot down the homework. Then, once you have completed that homework, cross it off and stop worrying about it. “There is something satisfying about crossing things off,” Prefect of Academics Sope Adeleye said. Second, master the art of time management. Using your mornings and study halls to complete as much homework as possible will take a load off your shoulders and free up much-needed time in the afternoons that you can use to binge-watch your favor-
ite Netflix show. “I wake up early in the morning to do homework because people aren’t posting on social media, and friends aren’t going to text you at six in the morning,” Adeleye said. When it is not early in the morning, put your phone aside so that you aren’t distracted. Be sure to listen to your senses when you study. According to physics teacher Mrs. Lauri Jensen, you should “highlight, write, talk, [and] tell the dog” what you are studying so that you can remember it better. If you know you are going to have a busy weekend, get your homework done on Thursday or Friday.
The ninth-grade experience
Students elaborate on pros and cons of freshman year
Photo: Annie Murff ’18 Ninth graders read “The Catcher and the Rye” in Mr. Zack Adcock’s third-period English class. As one of their many new classes, students have lots to look forward to in the coming year.
Annie Murff ’18
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hen someone mentions freshman year, plenty of memories rush to mind, whether they be good or bad. In order to get some insight on those feelings and memories, the Gryphon Gazette asked a few students about their time as freshmen. The nature of the ninth grade at St. George’s is “experiential” and “com-
pletely different” from middle school, as junior Caroline Farrell said. It’s a stressful yet exciting year, jam-packed with new teachers, new classes, new students and a completely new atmosphere. Freshmen year is more academically demanding, but it’s all about trying new things and zeroing in on what you love to do. This newly-gained freedom is also a
significant part of the first year of upper school. Although the loss of a recess period is a downside, the free periods that are gained definitely make up for it, according to senior Allie Harbert. Part of the ninth grade’s “totally new feel” is, according to current ninth-grader Mary Miller Goldberg, “more classes and so much more homework.” However, to
If you are easily distracted and need assistance focusing, you can use apps to help you study. Keepmeout.com will keep you off social media, or other sites that can distract you, for a certain number of minutes. The Work Break Timer allows you to set times to work and for breaks. While staying organized isn’t always easy, it will ultimately lead you to become a better student and help you in the long run. “When a person gets organized, the grades climb,” Mrs. Jensen said. “They find they really do have more time than they thought, and they reap the extra reward.”
help with the heavier workload, there are exceptionally “positive” teachers that “help you through the transition from middle to high school,” Goldberg said. Despite the many positive aspects of freshmen year, there are still some negative aspects. “Having to work a lot harder on exams and essays” and just simply “being in ninth grade” are just a few, according to Farrell and sophomore Bennett Matson. However, ninth-grade students, jokingly known as “fresh meat,” have no need to fear. Members of the sophomore, junior and senior classes have plenty of advice for the St. George’s class of 2019. “Just enjoy your freshmen year and understand your classes because they are the common core for the rest of your years in high school,” Harbert said. Matson advises students to “prepare, prepare, prepare.” As for what to look forward to after ninth grade, Matson says that it definitely gets better once “you’re not at the bottom of the totem pole anymore.” Farrell added that as high school goes on she learned more about her study and learning habits, which that has helped a great deal. All in all, freshmen year is an exciting time and the St. George’s class of 2019 is ready to take the upper school by storm with their “diverse” and “caring” grade, according to Goldberg. “It’s going to be one heck of a year,” Matson said.
September
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The Gryphon Gazette
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(T)WINNING
Sports
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Wooten twins excel on and off the court
Photo: Katie Boyle ‘17 & Miriam Brown ’17 (altered photo) Twins Quinterras and Quinshon Wooten are juniors who play basketball and football together. They came to St. George’s in middle school and quickly became known for their bravery, brotherhood and athletic prowess.
Bayard Anderson ‘17
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s junior Quinshon Wooten sauntered into the end zone in St. George’s opening win against Trinity Christian Academy, all he could think was, “My mom should have let me play earlier.” He had just added to a St. George’s lead off of a 90-yard interception return for a touchdown, and it was only his first time playing varsity football. “That pick six was so unexpected. I really enjoyed it because it was like the second play I was in, and it was a very far touchdown,” Quinshon said. “I haven’t played football in like four years, so it was pretty cool that I got one in my first year back.” Quinshon and Quinterras, or as they are more often called, Shon and Q, are twin brothers in the class of 2017 who arrived in seventh grade. They have been honing their gifts together for sometime now, and Shon’s touchdown is just a small window into the legacy the twins will leave at St. George’s.
ON THE COURT The brothers remember that they started playing basketball together in first grade. “We have good chemistry. It is easy for us to play together,” Shon explained, but quickly added, “We practice a lot, so I think we can both play without each other.” Being brothers, they do not agree on ev-
erything, but both Shon and Q admit they love playing together. “We’re double trouble,” both twins laughingly remarked. “It’s cool playing with each other, because we pretty much connect with any sport we do,” Q added. The twins especially excel on the basketball court. In one game, Shon fell, hit the hardwood and chipped a front tooth, yet he continued playing and showing his incredible toughness.
BEATING CANCER The twins were succeeding in school and on the court, but late in his seventh grade year, Q was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a malignant tumor that would force him to miss many school days and athletic events. “It was tough sometimes not playing with my brother because I am used to playing with him all the time,” Shon said. Shon tried to help his brother by staying positive and praying for him. Q beat his cancer by winter of his eighth grade year and quickly rejoined the basketball team. “It was hard at first, because I was so rusty and weak. I had to work harder than anyone else just to get to where I was at first,” Q said
“I missed playing with my friends and just not being able to do the thing I love.” Q worked hard to get back in shape and played a significant role in a team that made it to the eighth-grade championship game. The Wooten brothers carried their middle-school dominance into high school as
know where he is going to be,” Shon said. Even though Q disagrees with this idea, spectators cannot help but wonder if there is not more of a connection than we notice. “It’s fun to watch them do things that other people can’t,” junior Ryan Bray, friend and teammate of the twins, said. “Sometimes on
“ WE ’ RE DOUBLE TROUBLE.” well.. Last year, the Gryphon boys’ basketball team won the state championship, a title in which the twins played a significant role. “Both Quinterras and Quinshon stepped up to add much needed depth to our varsity team,” Mr. Jeff Ruffin, the boys’ varsity basketball coach, said. “Depth that turned out to be keys to our state championship run.” Shon claimed that the championship was his favorite memory with his brother to date. “It was the best moment of my life so far,” Q agreed.
A LASTING CONNECTION A popular belief is that twins can understand each others thoughts. Q and Shon had differing opinions on the idea. “On the court, I think we can be considered telekinetic, because sometimes I do
defense they’ll get steals and pass to each other, and we just watch them go.” Coach Ruffin thinks Q and Shon will play an even bigger role on this year’s varsity team. “We look forward to seeing their continued development in all areas of their games to complement their outstanding quickness, ability to handle the ball and propensity to apply good pressure on the ball defensively,” Coach Ruffin said. While the twins are leaving a lasting athletic legacy on the school, students know them for their mental and physical strength as well as their bravery. Watch out Ronde and Tiki Barber, Andrew and Aaron Harrison, because there’s a new pair of twins in town.
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September
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The Gryphon Gazette
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Features
Oh, the places we go!
Gryphons spread their wings, summer style Compiled by: Carolyn Lane ‘18
Photo: Miriam Brown ’17 Junior Anna Besh sits in a teepee that she made. Besh and Miriam Brown spent the summer working at a Colorado rafting company.
Source: Noah Pope ’17 Juniors Noah Pope and Alex Middleton pose with their Cutco trophies. They participated in a summer competition to sell as many Cutco knives as they could within a period of two weeks.
Source: Zarina Umarov ’16 Senior Zarina Umarov and her sister, eighth-grader Emina Umarov shop in Venice, Italy. The two sisters traveled to Croatia, Turkey, Greece and Italy during the month of July.
Source: William McBride ’16
Senior William McBride and Kate Oglesby jump in celebration of their last day at the Trent Lott Leadership Institute. They spent over a month at the University of Mississippi, where the Institute was held.
Source: Margaret Porter ’16
Senior Margaret Porter, Dalton Nonweiler and Andie Goodwin clean turtles while visiting the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary. Bequia Island, where the sanctuary was located, was one of the many Caribbean locations Margaret Porter traveled during her three-week vacation.
Karina Jensen poses on one of her art creations while at Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts. She participated in the program at Middle Tennessee University during the month of May.
Source: Karina Jensen ’16