Issue 2

current

the

Thomas A. Edison High School

by

hassle

Illustration

is the new

Kelly MicKey

Security Thomas Edison High School • Volume 51• Issue 2• 5801 Franconia Road • Alexandria, VA 22310 • December 18, 2014

the

current

what’s inside

The Current is a student-edited publication serving the Thomas A. Edison High School community.

The Current Editorial Board

NEWS:

Eagles love SOSA Scot Edmonds (4) Mystery meat: What are you eating? (6-7)

Editor-in-Chief Megan Grondine News Editors Kristen Samuelson Marjan Popal Opinions Editors Allie Harris Ryan Pinkney Features Editors Kelly MicKey Gaby Ruff Managing Editor Judy Beauvais

OPINIONS: Let us eat sugar! (8) The not-so cord-ial war (10)

FEATURES: Incriminating the innocent (12-13) Is the school watching what you are doing? (14)

Staff Writers & Photographers

ARTS:

Austin Chavez Katie Hahler Jennifer Miller Caitlin Murnane Mackenzie Nolan

Pro-cras-ti-na-tion (18-19) 10 Commandments of 2015 (24)

SPORTS: Fantasy Football (20) The Hypesquad Playbook (22)

ONLINE EXCLUSIVES: The Current is online! Visit www.thecurrentonline.org to read exclusive stories and photos not in print!

Sports Editor Will Dobson Online Editor Justin Askenazy Arts Editors Josephine Neulen Keishla Morales Creative Director Meg Mowery Principal Pamela Brumfield Advisor Kate McEnerney

The Current is the official newspaper of Thomas A. Edison High School published quarterly by the journalism staff. It serves as a vehicle for student expression and is an open forum of issues of interest and concern to the school community.

Year-long subscriptions are available for $20. Subscription forms may be ordered via email at kemcenerney@ fcps.edu. Subscription forms may also be picked up in room C-215.

The staff is deeply committed to a code of journalistic ethics that demands the exercise of accuracy, good judgment, and impartiality. The content of The Current is determined by the editorial board.

Unsigned editorials reflect the majority opinion of the staff of The Current, but not necessarily the opinions of individual editors or staff members. Signed editorials and letters to the editor reflect the views of the authors.

The Current solicits advertising, but reserves the right to reject any material deemed libelous, disruptive, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

Letters to the Editor may be submitted to kemcenerney@fcps.edu or anonymously outside of Room C215.

Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

With any general questions regarding The Current, please email kemcenerney@fcps.edu or megangrondine@gmail.com

1.United States

A gas station in Oklahoma City was the first to drop the price per gallon between $2.00.

According to AAA’s “Daily Fuel Gauge Report,” the national average price of gas was $2.577 on Saturday, December 13th. (www.cnn.com)

2.Afghanistan

The Current 1 World 4 2 3

The New York Times reports that the White House extended U.S. combat role in Afghanistan into 2015, allowing troops to keep fighting the Taliban and other militant groups that threaten American soldiers or the Afghan government. (www.nytimes.com)

3. United States

According to The Washington Post, the hack of Sony Pictures Entertainment has escalated into a humiliating public crisis for the company as deeply held secrets continue spilling onto the Internet.(www.washingtonpost.com)

4.United States/Iraq

CNN reports the CIA’s harsh interrogations of terrorist detainees during the Bush era didn’t work and were more brutal than previously revealed, according to an explosive Senate report. (www.cnn.com) December 2014 | The Current | 2

news When it doesn’t add up: students failing in math classes

B

“Students will move forward if they apply and translate the knowledge gained in school to real life.” curve with most students receiving Bs and Cs,” said mathematics teacher Megan Anderson.

Some may define math as their strong suit, but others may view it tedious or troublesome.

A student who wishes to remain anonymous describes their failing experience in math, “ It was heartbreaking to see an F on my final report card last year, I was lost and I felt like I couldn’t overcome my difficulties in math.”

Math is a subject that may not resonate with each student.

math is to practice, ask questions, always have a positive attitude, and to never give up,” said Anderson.

“Keep working hard, work with your teacher, and don’t give up,” she added.

There are many opportunities for students here to help lessen their frustrations on math.

“Students need to take advantage of the opportunities available to them – Homework Hangout on Saturday mornings, Eagle Time and remediation time, after school, peer tutors through the National Honor Society and the Math Center,” said Guillen.

Should a student still deserve to fail even if they do everything in their power to aim for the grade they desire?

“Student grades are supposed to be based on Frustrated student struggles to get through math homework.mastery of the content Math is a serious subject that requires a lot of commitment. presented and teachers are given guidelines to follow that support this. However, we also have the responsibility to teach our students important lifeskills,” said Guillen Students should always be aware that there is always someone there to help them.

“As a school, it is our responsibility to constantly The percentages below represent the grades of all listen to what students are Edison High School students for the first quarter of telling us,” said assistant principal Tim Boyd. the 2014-2015 school year Boyd also explains that “ Students will move forward if they apply and translate the knowledge gained in school to real life.”

Application of knowledge is they key to success.

If a person puts in the extra time and takes advantage all the opportunities they have, they will ultimately succeed. “ If you are putting forth the right effort and that effort is in the right direction, then you will accomplish your goals,” said Anderson

“Math is one of those subjects that just doesn’t seem to click for every individual,” said senior Sophie Horville.

Math takes commitment and

requires a lot of practice, and analytical thinking, therefore if a student is not willing to put in the hard work and dedication, then it is easier for them to fall behind.

“The best way to study for

Marjan Popal

Marjan Popal news editor y failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. For some students, this is a reality-especially in math classes.

According to Student Services Director Deborah Guillen, failing rates range from a low of 0% students failing a course to a high of 17%, the overall school average of students receiving F’s for first quarter was 6.1%.

Every student has areas they excel in or areas they need improvement in, but the subject that reaches a common ground with students seems to be math.

Guillen elaborated on these numbers saying, “Math had the highest rates of F’s at 17%, however, the grades most frequently given were B’s and C’s at 28% and 27.5% respectively, achieving the normal bell curve that we look for, with most students achieving in the B/C range and smaller numbers at either end of the grading spectrum.”

Despite math being the most failed subject, many students do proficiently well.

“Although we had 17% of students fail math, our grades are normally distributed on the bell

First Quarter Grade Data

A: 39.4% B: 28.4% C: 16.4% D: 6.1% P: 1.6% F: 6.1%

3 | The Current| December 2014

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Eagles love SOSA Scot Edmonds O

ut of all the faces in the hallways, one of the least recognizable may be that of Scot Edmonds, the new Systems of Support Advisor, or SOSA, for short. Edmonds was previously a Behavior Specialist at Burke School, a public day school for middle school students receiving special education services primarily due to emotional and/ or behavioral needs. Edmonds helped those with disabilities or problems that impair learning or social functions.

Edmonds’ job here has some similarities; he tries to reduce suspension and reassignment rates, assisting student with reflecting and processing incidents that have led to behavior referrals, to facilitate mediations between students

and between students and faculty, to supervise students and assist with the completion of assignment while students serve AIA, in school suspension.

Students are able to escape to the SOSA’s room if there is conflict in the classroom, or if they are having trouble completing work during the school day. Students are also able to relax here if they need a classroom for study hall. Edmonds helps with work if any student is in need.

Last year Edison had an actionpacked year filled with suspensions, and expulsions.

During the 2013-2014 school year there was 88 suspensions and 10-15 expulsions.

The main reason for these reassignment sand punishments was physical fights and disruptions during the school day.

“It was comfortable... he did not make me feel like a criminal.”

Students who have interacted with Edmonds have felt a personal connection with him and feel nothing but comfort while in his presence. “(Edmonds) The SOSA genuinely cares about you as a student and doesn’t really focus on what you did to get yourself in his classroom,” explained one Senior. “The day after I finished my assignment with SOSA, he asked me how I did and gave me a fist bump when I told him I got an A.” “It was chill, it was a place where you could just do your New Systems of Support Advisor Scot Edmonds poses in assignment, he didn’t the AIA room during 3rd block. He assists in mediating judge you or anything. conflicts regarding students throughout the day.

It was a comfortable environment that I did my work in,” the senior continued.

Kelly MicKey

Edison takes new Systems of Security Advisor under its wing

Kristen Samuelson news editor

You can count on the Math Center Justin Askenazy online editor dison’s newest way to help students is now up and running. The Math Center tutor help students who are struggling or just have questions about their Algebra 1, Geometry, or Algebra 2 work.

The Center is open during all four lunches in the previously unused teacher lunchroom in the cafeteria, as well as in Room D117 during Eagle Time and after school on Thursdays. Eagle Time sessions are only available by appointment or teacher recommendation, while the Center is open to walk-ins at any other time.

There are certain requirements for getting tutored at lunch, however. Algebra 1 students are only accepted on Mondays, Tuesdays, and

Gaby Ruff

E

Math Center tutor and senior Kristina Diep helps out fellow Math Studies classmate Amelia Carr. Diep helps with homework during lunches and after school.

December 2014 | The Current | 4

Fridays; Geometry students can be helped on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays; and those needing help in Algebra 2 are seen on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

“The Math Center is really valuable to both me as a tutor and to the students,” said junior and Math Center tutor Elena Calese. “When you can teach a subject, you know that you understand it, and I get to help other students while doing that.”

The Math Center has tutored over 96 students in the month of December alone according to Math teacher and Math Center Coordinator, Lynn Rebers. During the week of December 1st through the 5th, they conducted 54 tutoring sessions.

news

How much money does it take to run Edison?

The Current’s Ryan Pinkney investigates the real cost of school expenses.

The Un

ited Sc

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$12,186,0

f Ediso

37

$12,186,0

37

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$103,806

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201

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For General Supplies

$183,289

for Textbooks

$191,505

coaching Supplements

$2,200

for postal services

$12,186,037 total

This data came from the county budget found on the Fairfax County Public School System website.

These numbers apply for the 2014 fiscal year. For more information visit the website www.fcps.edu/fs/budget/documents/detailed/index.html 5 | The Current| December 2014

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MYSTERY MEAT: a re yo t a h W Th u

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“It deliclioooks us!”

invesCurren your tigate t sandchickens wich

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... m m M “ stes ta real like que!” barbe ly Kel

Smoke flavor

is an additive flavor given to a lot of meats that have lost their flavor due to processing, giving them an artificial smoke-like flavor. The main ingredient in natural smoke flavor is known as AM 01, which is usually obtained from beech wood. It is not necessarily harmful in small doses, but a study by the European Food Safety Authority indicated that AM 01 was shown to slow weight gain and change the blood of young animals.

December2014 | The Current | 6

ea

g tin

is an artificial coloring found in lots of foods, meats and soda. Some types of this coloring contain a potentially carcinogenic chemical called 4-methylimidazole (4-MeI).

The International Agency for Research on Cancer determined the chemical to be “possibly carcinogenic to humans” in 2011.

Key

“It tast so fres es h!”

Mic

Sodium Nitrate

is found in lots of processed meats, like salami, hot dogs, pepperoni, bologna, ham, and bacon. It is used to preserve the color and inhibit botulism in the meat. Although its effects still aren’t completely certain, evidence shows that sodium nitrate may damage blood vessels, making arteries more likely to harden and narrow, and lead to heart disease. Nitrates may also affect the body’ ability to use sugar, making a person more likely to develop diabetes.

news

If you are what you eat, what does that make you?

Josephine Neulen Arts Editor

S

enior Shahamat Chowdry just bought lunch and sits down at the table filled with his friends during C lunch. The notorious red lunch tray is lying in front of him, crowded with milk, apple slices, Cajun fries, and the centerpiece: a fried chicken sandwich.

He peels off the plastic wrapper and exposes the amorphous chicken patty, hugged by a limp brown bun, and bites into his sandwich. “I have to eat this… supposed chicken sandwich. I don’t have another choice,” he said.

Most students are incredibly dissatisfied with school lunches, especially the meat products, but it is hard for FCPS to make a change and be fiscally responsible at the same time.

According to the Fairfax County Public Schools website, 24% of student population qualifies for free or reduced price meals. A large percentage of these students have to get their food from the school; they do not have another choice-even if some of the products make their stomachs turn.

Some students who do have a choice, however, have made the reason for their lunch decision very apparent.

“It just looks kind of gross, especially because I am worried about what is in it,” said senior Clara Wynne, who brings her own lunch to school.

Others are concerned that they don’t know what is in the food. “**** yeah, I care about what I eat!” said junior Mohammed Baker, who tends to bring his lunch as well.

And here lies the issue: What exactly is in the burgers? No student exactly knows what is in their school lunch, or how healthy it is, and most students trust Fairfax County Public Schools and their food choices.

“As long as it’s real meat, I am not worried,” said Chowdry.

Well, according to FCPS-- it isn’t necessarily. In the case of some of the most popular lunch items, like the tacos with beef filling, beef teriyaki dippers or hamburgers, it isn’t actually as much meat as one would expect (or hope for). In the beef tacos, only 1 out of 17 ingredients is actually meat. So what exactly are the other ingredients?

Among some of the most common added ingredients are colorants, sodium nitrate, potassium chloride, additive “smoky” flavor, and textured vegetable protein.

Whereas most of these additives aren’t necessarily unhealthy in small doses, they are still somewhat alarming.

Textured vegetable protein, for example is processed with a chemical called Hexane. Hexane, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is classified as a neurotoxin that can lead to neurological conditions.

Unfortunately, it is still unclear whether consuming traces and residues of it is a health hazard.

Alarming, however, is that the FDA does not monitor hexane in foods, nor does it require companies to test for it, and thus leaves consumers in the dark about a potentially harmful substance.

“The USDA, Institute of Medicine, and Food and Drug Administration are our guidance on whether these items are safe or not, and we follow their direction,” said Fairfax County Public Schools’ Food & Nutrition Service director Penny McConnell. So FCPS will continue to serve food declared safe by these governmental agencies.

However, these governmental agencies are not always at the forefront of what is safe. The American Cancer Society reports that high consumption of processed meats and its additives, including sodium nitrate resulted in a 50 percent increased risk of cancer in the lower colon and rectum. These products can also cause cellular oxygen deficiencies in some levels.

McConnell implies that all these additives were included because the students wanted it that way. In the

“There is no evidence that natural or organic meats are more nutritious than current purchased meats and produce.”

case of the 100% beef patty, for example, “The 100% beef item was eliminated because students found it too dry and unacceptable,” said McConnell.

According to The Washington Post, in 2013, FCPS replaced the previously available 100% beef patty (made of 100% beef, salt and pepper) with a version that contains 26 ingredients, including obscure additives and preservatives.

Although FCPS has made some changes over the past years, by reducing trans fats, saturated fats and sodium in the lunches, it is seemingly unconcerned about 100% meat products, and even more about organic foods.

“There is no evidence that natural or organic meats are more nutritious than current purchased meats and produce,” said McConnell.

Even though the validity of that statement is certainly debatable, it demonstrates that Fairfax County, for the time being at least, has other things to be concerned about. This is terribly unfortunate for students like Shahamat and Baker, who apparently had some say in what they could eat for lunch, but did not get the memo.

“I want stuff that tastes real,” said senior Ricki Wood. “I want fresh food.”

What is inside your hamburger?

According to FCPS, the following ingredients compose the meat that is served in cafeterias

7 | The Current| December2014

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LET US EAT SUGAR Katie Hahler staff writer

E

ver notice how there are no more bake sales in the front lobby after school?

Extracurricular groups have been trying to wiggle between the Virginia state government’s restriction of bake sales under the allowance of Michelle Obama’s “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010” and the “Let’s Move!” campaigns.

The intention behind banning bake sales is rational with the desire to lower youth obesity levels, but is this the most effective way to vanquish the “epidemic”?

“While we are concerned about the obesity epidemic, limiting food and beverage fundraisers at schools and schoolrelated events is not the solution,” said superintendent of schools for the state of Georgia according to the Washington Post.

Barge is on point. Yes, banning bake sales may be a step in

December 2014 | The Current | 8

the right direction, but how effective is this little step? From what it looks like, the negative reaction outweighs the hopeful intention.

Creative new fundraising tactics have been successful, like the breast cancer awareness sticker competition the Leadership class hosted this fall, but its profit was not nearly as beneficial as the past year’s bake sales.

“A typical after-school-bakesale could raise anywhere from $60-100,”said history and leadership teacher Chris Karayannis. If there were bake sales this year, then extracurriculars could better fund their committee and/ or charities-- a direct way to positively impact the community.

Only time can prove if the nationwide bake sale regulation is effective or not. The federal government voted to press pause on school’s beneficial intentions in order to observe if their theory is correct.

I wonder if Michelle Obama’s administration could share some recipes on how to make cauliflower appealing to the majority of children in the United States because I have none.

STAFF EDITORIAL

opinions

I

t seems a bit counterintuitive to pit teachers and students against each other. But that’s exactly that is happening in the new tardy policy. Teachers are being asked to lock their doors against students trying to come to class and learn, which causes conflict between the two sides. The consequence? A three hour detention.

Tardy sweeps are nothing new to the upperclassmen, so what exactly is all commotion about? Well, for starters, the old, understandable and reasonable detention of thirty minutes has been hiked up to three hours this year. Three hours of cold nothing-- no cell phones, no laptops, no games, no food, no talking, and even no homework.

It seems a tad ridiculous that as an IB school, students are not allowed to work on schoolwork for the most bland and pointless 180 minutes of their lives.

“They told us we couldn’t have our phones out, use laptops, talk, or do homework. After she took attendance, we all did the opposite, and she realized a lot of people were missing,” said one senior girl after serving the three hours one Thursday afternoon.

One student, after told she had

a minute to escape the treacherous detention, was locked outside of her classroom as her teacher told her through the glass that they could not open the door.

“I was considering just going home. It was just thirty seconds after 7:20, and I was so angry at the ridiculousness of the situation. I felt as if I were locked in a room with the gas left on-- as if my teacher had to let me in that moment or else I would explode,” said one senior girl.

If teachers want students to do well in their class, then it is crucial to develop some sort of relationship with the student so that trust, appreciation, and respect are granted from both parties. If a student has a positive relationship with their teacher, they will most likely perform actively and successfully in the class. The onlyresult from these tardy sweeps is their committed manslaughter on these relationships as administration pits the army of staff against the peasantry of students.

Sweeping in between blocks is a valid action on behalf of the administration, for there is no understandable reason why six minutes is not more than enough time to get from one class to

the next (unless the student is on crutches or coming from Academy).

However, to sweep in the morning is the purest definition of cruelty and portrait of the staff ’s apathy for students.

Franconia and Edison’s parking lot are worse than a train wreck between 7:00 a.m. and 7:20 a.m. With all due respect to the hardworking architects and workers who designed and built our parking lot, it is extremely inefficient, especially when security is not directing traffic.

As administration announces the occasional detrimental sweeps, they remind us that students who arrive to school on time are found to be more successful later in life than those who are late. However, the connection between punctuality and achievement is murkey. Being one to two minutes late to first period is not means for a three hour detention, and it certainly does not mean that a student is destined for failure.

Ryan Pinkney

Are tardy sweeps constructive or a thrill kill in disguise?

The one time some students are actually late to school, they are swept and given a three hour detention. Some students who are swept are thriving with a grade point average over 4.0, so how does the administration factor that into their careless ticketing?

Tardy sweeping comes off as a type of “thrill kill,” as if the administration has no better task to do or way to prove to the county that Edison is among the best schools in the district.

If the reason behind tardy sweeps truly resonates with success and intelligence, then the administration should target the students who are consistently late and have declining grades.

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9 | The Current| December 2014

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The not-so cord-ial war

Clubs and activities battle for the right to wear graduation cords Jennifer Miller staff writer

T

ug of war is a sport that directly pits two teams against each other in a test of strength. The war over graduation cords has created tension between administration and the activities that don’t get cords, going back and forth in their own tug of war.

“We are in the process of looking at the graduation cords because as it stands we have a large number of groups that have received cords in the past. No final determination has been made at this point yet,” said director of student services, Deborah Guillen.

Graduation cords are used as a way to represent a students success in a certain area of interest.

Nationally recognized clubs and achievements are rewarded with a cord; however if the club isn’t recognized nationally, then it is not qualified for a cord.

“Right now, cords are not limited, but only allowing honor societies to have cords is under consideration,” said Guillen. Clubs that are acknowledged nationally, are no different than clubs that go unrecognized nationwide; why aren’t all clubs recognized?

There are sixteen activities that are recognized with a cord at graduation.

What makes these clubs any different than the rest of the clubs at Edison?

Excluding clubs, that are important to not only students, but the community, makes those clubs feel

The Cords

rejected and left out.

It’s debated whether or not it’s fair to assign graduation cords to only some clubs, and not others. It makes the students that are not in a recognized club feel unimportant.

“While I want students to be recognized for their accomplishments, I don’t know that each and every club that they participate in needs to be noted with a cord,” said Guillen. So, what deems a club worthy of a cord? There are many valuable and widely known clubs and activities that contribute to the school and community that don’t get a cord. Some of the most popular

clubs here at Edison don’t get a graduation cord, despite the wide appreciation for that club.

“Cords should be rewarded to clubs that are impacting the school. It’s not fair that some activities work just as hard, or even harder than clubs that get cords, yet they aren’t rewarded for their work,” said senior Susana Zelaya.

There are many clubs that got cords in the past, but recently had their cords ripped away from them.“Yearbook does not get a cord anymore. I devote hours of my free time every week, in and out of school, to working on the yearbook. Yearbook and all of the other clubs and organizations that put in just as much work as a nationally/internationally recognized club, get nothing for graduation, which is kind of a slap in the face,” said senior and yearbook editor in chief, Antonia Petaccio.

The Cord-less

Megan Grondine

AVID

Chorus

Math H.S

Serv ice Learning d n a B

Key Club JROTC

December 2014 | The Current | 10

DECA Y e lism ar

journaSPORTS

boo

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Dram Color Guard

opinions

“Incriminating� the Innocent In the security system, the people

are represented by two seperate but equally important groups,: the students and the staff.

Kelly MicKey

These are their stories.

11 | The Current| December 2014

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: N O I T A G I INVEST Y T I R U C E EDISON S

etorse than targ is “Nothing’s w ri , and secu ty ir treatment. ecific people fa et sp un rg g d ta in y an t is he ty rr ri T en m of secu of that.

Allie Ha run rampant finitely guilty s lel de or r w o e it um d R ar e at ap s d th people opinion and beyond an athletes and if you have going above minor r Mohaba. fo id ts aise your hand ly victimsa en ” m n, curity know ng punish al yi on pl rs pe ment from se lt fe ever .

In fact, harass at many interty . ri es cu nc es se fe at n of ho so ern th ized by Edi ntion from C I was is such a conc anony“I got a dete teria. He unters where fe co ca red to remain en e er d th ef ha e pr e av s ’v le ee “I e to ew m vi ng co ion. yi ut id ld tr ib for of retr curity wou side and I sa s out of fear ou in class and se most every day to to go back in m e on e m on ld a no to t that e al less. I go “I would hope I was looking for m was meaning ents gh it ; ud ou ’t ay st th dn ok es en di ak I ev ft, rity staff m n for that. io cu nt se e te see if I had le there 2,000 other th de of ur d, d 2 ho listene n’t ,” said Hea y rules and I ” still there. Are feel [harassed] a way, an worry about? even break an id to sa ol ,” an Deck. “In ho up m sc e er e m Sh , te ty ro ri w cu kids in th ill .

Se or but he st g harassed by onymous seni or. at we’re bein ni th se el s I fe alleged an an ass.” ou le I op ym anon ’t going to cl that any nch of pe ents that aren t “There’s a bu rity maintains ke ud cu st tic se a et Y en tt ents ven’t go given to stud cknow who ha punishments the student se of the in g rt in pa rk ing slighted st pa ju r e once fo ss, but I tudents feel onse? olations ar S vi pa r a t fo ou ith w ’ resp tion regularly ys,” said The students too process. ts in three da ent who folud rity has a little st a cu y e se ar ad k got three ticke u re in al yo th d f “I “I ha to di “I u ve a. say yo d ohab n’t ha senior Mo M e rules, you do you’re a power. If they y finanh m th t s uc w ou m lo ab k ve no say ec D rity. But if rong, you ha g w cu in se talked to Mr. ng go hi ith et as w w m al I do so de onyesn’t and how n,” said an an habitually do cial situation in the situatio student who ; I was in the , you’ll trators ss is do pa in to m 00 ad ed $2 os e he to get th d now ey’re supp junior. “T s th an ” t e, t, ou pl ha m ou w m it si es ly ng ki and do n’t ty. It’s real middle of wor on top of that for believes them . ed st es al with securi ju at de ho C 5 ry $4 ar y t really happen rL I have to pa er to ask wha security office y excessive th id bo sa y.” emingl de of the stor so those tickets.”

Factors in se or get your si s it al ofstudents feel he tu e us bi m br ha so n , be ct io n at fa ca In they “Administr punishment titudes. security that ant to get too srespectful at di intimidated by or s and doesn’t w er . f lp nd n of he fe io r in fo t op problem. ou on h m ac , but there’s a , it is com had to re nt er ed de lv ev ci ty vo in ow ri away in H an cu d se ha that they get ents that “Last year, I re’s a reason parent had ong most stud le. he id y T am sa m ,” re at he th w peop kids like with security rgets specific e I felt so with treating by ta us ed ca et be rg ta ed g lv bein to get invo ayla “I know I’m Newman.

I’m at said senior K scared when el fe disrespected,” I . ty ri secu being pset e I know I’m Newman.

Why we’re u at leaves rity school becaus cu se n he w exactly th el that for So what is it targeted. I fe ts own in en kn l m el h w is easy about e n ar u ople who feeling so un Severe p s pe ts it’ ts en k ge ud in st th s ey ce trouble, th rs? minor offen e from the school in security office n reaction,” s rang ai nt ch ai a pl e m us co ca Security harass- going to . parking lot to ymous senior said an anon the backed up

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December 2014 | The Current | 12

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“All the trouble I’ve gotten into the past four year being a jerk to pe s have been at th ople.” e hands of the sam e security officer and I don’t think Intimidating en that’s a coincicounters dence,” said an Yet it seems that anonymous seni the feeling of or.

“I think [a specifi harassment and c security ofintimidation is ficer] just does it dominant in mos for fun, because t encounters with he acts all buddy-bu security. ddy with everyo ne when he’s really “[Security] makes just trying to ge me not want t you in trouble,” to come to scho alleged a junior. ol, because [they “[One security of ’re] hu miliating, and th ficer] doesn’t ey know that,” even attempt to sa id an anonymous se build positive re nior. lationships with an “Sometimes you ybody. He likes feel like, ‘is this the re power. Sometim ally what they’re es I think ‘Is ever worrying about?’ y- Li body getting this ke, kids do dr ug treatment or am s in the bathroom I getting picked on and you’re worr ?’” said Mohaba. ied about my pa “During tardy sw rking pass?” said Moh eeps, I see [a aba. specific security “They’re the adul officer] walking ts; they’re suparound with a bi posed to be the g smile on his fa ones that are pr ce. te It looks like he en octing us, but inste joys harassing ad we’re afraid of people,” said an th em,” said Newm anonymous soph an. omore.

“I think commun ication with Bridging the ga students is hand p led poorly. Resp It’s clear that ther ect e is major goes both ways, di sconnect betwee you have to give n the students it to receive it. Th and security offic at’s not balanced ers. And while it’s well by security,” undoubtedly tru said Newman. e that the secu“You can’t go ar rity officers are ound giving orde doing their best rs and targeting stu to protect everyone dents and expect in the building, them to respect the contentious feeli you.” ngs are proving “I’m here becaus to affect the way th e I care about at the students vi kids, not becaus ew their experience e I want to be so here at Edison. me bully or boss pe ople around,” sa “W e are here to do ou id Choates. “Peopl r job, not to harass students,” e think that I’m said Deck. “I wo some kind of bu uld ra ther help you, so lly or I’m mean, but if that’s the that’s not the ca perception, plea se. If I wanted to se come and see do that, I could mak me.

Let’s work it out e a lot more mon together.” ey doing security so mewhere else an d

13 | The Current| December 2014

the

current

Big Brother: Edison Edition

FCPS Onboard causes problems for students and staff

Austin Chavez staff writer hursday, November 20, 2014---a date in which FCPS will live in infamy.

Students walked in to school that day not knowing that the moment they connect to the school’s wifi, nothing will ever be the same.

“I was really confused,” said Senior Lina Dinh. “I thought that administration was about to begin monitoring and watching us.”

Dinh was not alone in thinking that FCPS Onboard was installed for the sole purpose of monitoring students. For teachers and students alike, the introduction of FCPS Onboard came at such an abrupt time, But according to Technology Specialist Voytek Jeruzal, the new wifi has been in the works for quite a while.

“We were informed over the summer, but it was ultimately the school’s decision to decide when to implement it,” he said.

According to Jeruzal, the new wifi is intended to narrow down on what devices students are using.

“The county wants to know the types of technology students are using, and how many there are.”

But many students, such as Dinh, wonder why the new wifi only applies to Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD). “The school computers are all connected to the original FCPS wifi,” she said. “It makes me wonder why they want to know what we’re doing so bad.”

In an online article recently published by My FCPS, entitled “FCPS Bring Your Own Device Registration Process Streamlined,” FCPS maintained that it cannot monitor devices. “FCPS Onboard is used solely for device registration, not device management and therefore doesn’t provide FCPS the capability to monitor activities on

T

BYOD devices,” the article noted.

The document also said that the Onboard is also meant for Bring Your Own Devices only.

When asked why the school computers do not fall under FCPS Onboard, Jeruzal said that school computers have to be in the original wi-fi, for monitoring reasons. “For example,” he said. “If a school computer has not been logged on for more than thirty days, it is automatically disconnected.” Disconnected computers, Jeruzal said, will not get important updates Despite it’s potential advantages, Jeruzal said that the implementation of FCPS Onboard has not been easy.

“We haven’t been able to set up specific apps for Mac users,” said Jeruzal. He said Android and some iPhone users are also having trouble.

Senior Alexandra Moller is one such example. In the beginning of the school year, Moller used to connect her iPhone and Mac to the school wifi. However, since FCPS Onboard, Moller has been having problems with both devices.

December 2014 | The Current | 14

Mackenzie Nolan

“I have to reconnect my phone every thirty minutes, and my laptop does not allow me to even log in.”

“I have to reconnect my phone every thirty minutes, and my laptop does not allow to me to even log in,” she said. “XpressConnect keeps making me put some form of HTML in order for me to connect.”

“Hopefully, they will be able to fix the issue,” said Moller. “Many students now use personal devices for school, and it’ll be nice to have everything in order.”

Dinh agreed. “School would function much better if our devices worked,” she said. “I think a working wi-fi would benefit everyone.”

FCPS Onboard issues a certificate license for all devices. The license is good for only one year.

The license also applies to iPads and devices administered to staff.

Are you on board with the new WiFi? Here are some things you need to know:

• Over 10,000 students have registered BYOD last year, according to FCPS. • FCPS Onboard requires you to install a certificate on personal devices, good for one year.

• The new network collects and logs in IP and Mac Addresses.

• The company Cloudpath created FCPS OnBoard. They cater to educational systems.

features

Caitlin Murnane staff writer

you” “Fr y u out the et yo or “G way” ingly makjok e:

“Schleep,” “Chalked,” or “Knocked”

e word “sleep” Used to replace th e: “I was so pl am or “sleeping”. Ex first block.” h ug ro th schleep all

som Used when mple: “I xa E . ke fa g is bein ut e talking abo er w u yo rd re hea u’ o ..y k. y bac me behind m that.” so fu for

“Wel

Used ling” the wor to replace ample: d “lying”. Ex “ welling I know you’re ...stop h yping it.”

opped” “Got me cehemoji or knif ne is saying

meo Used when sois annoying or when at th something signs excessive amounts as is your teacher mple: “I’m not doing th xa .”

E ed . p rk p o o w ch of ou got me assignment...y

Used to or agree show respect, one’s sta ment with some temen “I feel y t. Example: ou man.”

DMV’s URBAN

” the na ce ” in la to na p “F to re oing fin ve.” g e ed e “ W mo Us ras le: “ od ph amp s fo i Ex e th ak m

0” “Fu” or “5eone

00 emoji’

1” e- .

“A som age or g or aver ows r k” in ve br ou ee eth bo eye “Y Fl om r a ur or n en s d, o , yo w!” girl.”

“O wh s goo Wow t no day ed k : “ igh to Us e loo ple ek r A1 on xam n fle fit is E o ut are o

l xamp ou are hen y meone. E et you w d e o g Us Use “F ut to n of s ing fu yy I’m abo h your high or “g d to repla ade” y t ce th i o y i o w n B y g f “ ade t e wa he ba ’. Exampl e word “g out th waters.” e sketb o all ga : “I’m gon ” me to n night a .”

‘1

dictionary “On God”

“Bless(ed)”

Used when something good happens. Example: “Hannah blessed me with the answers to our homework.”

/ ed)” mp( ng to plans le: a t S “ p i e m e a r

ag Ex .” p when eone.

Used with som le.” “Stam t g o n i p agree go to Chi “Lets

Used when someo ne needs you to prove you’re te lling the truth.

Example: “On go d, I’m throwing a Christmas party this year.”

” Dank ” or “ talking about l ) s ( t i “H nly when bow burrito mo

as his om Used c Example: “T urrito bowl w . b d t o a o h f T good o hit.” or “ k.” tt so dan is abou

15| The Current| December 2014

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current

Seeing their names in lights

Driven students pursue their dreams as they apply to arts schools

H

er fingers move nimbly around the thin strands of hair as she twists and wraps them into a beautifully complex bun in a matter of seconds.

As she finishes, she pauses for a moment to admire her work before turning and saying with a proud smile, “This is my favorite hairstyle I’ve done for a show.”

Senior Samantha Elliott has been a part of the makeup and costume department for three years and has been in charge of the department since last year, creating the faces and hairstyles for characters such as the Tin Man and Dorothy, from last year’s production of The Wizard of Oz, and Anne from this year’s production

of Anne of Green Gables. Drama Teacher Larry McCormick puts his trust in Elliott to produce a stunning result, “She knows what we want before she presents it to us.”

It was inside Edison’s black box theater where Elliott realized that

“She knows what we want before she presents it to us”

S

also carries her cheerfulness and dedication with her off stage as she directs the actors in her One Act show.

Flack has been acting since an early age and discovered that performing was her true passion. “I realized I wanted to continue doing

Keishla Morales

he stands on stage poised and cheerful as she begins to sing a Christmas carol. She captivates the audience with her stage presence and voice and even asks the audience to sing along to Jingle Bells with a charismatic and genuine smile. Senior Emily Flack

she wanted to pursue the art of makeup and costume design as a career. “If I had never started theater at Edison I wouldn't know what I would've wanted to do because before this I just knew that I wanted to do makeup, and now I know that I want to work in the theater and that's really thanks to Mr. McCormick and the drama department because if I hadn't found the drama department then I wouldn't have found my true passion.”

Elliott has not only had support

Senior Emily Flack gives her actors directors instructions during her One Act rehearsals. Students will be able to see Flack’s and the One Acts of other IB Theater students the 5th, 6th, and 7th of February.

December 2014 | The Current | 16

from McCormick and the rest of Christopher Newport University, the drama department, but also Shenandoah Conservatory Arts from her family as she wraps up Academy, and East Carolina Uniher college search. “My family has versity. After college, Elliott would supported me one-hundred percent. ultimately like to end up at The They’ve pushed me and motivated Palladium in England, Broadway or me and my parents help in theater.

Hollywood and go into the movie My dad does construction for the or theater business. sets, my mom does costumes, so they always gave me outlets and pushed me to better myself.”

Elliott will be apply- Samantha Elliott works on junior Madison Pearson’s hair fore her One ing to Act Rehearsal. Elliott comments that this is her favorite hairstyle Keishla Morales

Keishla Morales arts editor

theater outside of high school and outside of college in eighth grade after I had done a couple of shows and I did my first out of school show and auditioned and everything and then after that I just kind of fell in love with doing it ever since.”

Flack has been a part of the Edison drama department for all four years of high school and has held a role in at least one play each year in addition to performing in productions outside of school.

Flack became inspired to act after watching a performance of Wicked and from support from her friends, family, and teachers.

Flack reveals that although she does not feel any stage fright any more, she still feels nervous during auditions, “I feel nervous at auditions for sure because that’s when you really feel like you’re on trial to get into a show, but then once you’re in a show you know that

you’re in there for a reason, so it doesn’t really matter too much.”

Flack’s application process is a different experience than a typical senior’s application process. “[My application process] is dependent on the audition process. that means that I don’t find out application results until after all my auditions have been processed and voted on.

I’ll find out my results in March or April instead of March.” Flack’s top choices for schools are Penn State University and Carnegie Mellon University with her backup school being The University of William and Mary. After college, Flack would like to end up in New York or Pittsburg to pursue theater performances but she has also been approached by Disney representatives to audition for them when she turned eighteen and is taking that option into consideration.

features

Starbucks lovers sip holiday cheer Starbucks’ holiday menu rated by Starbucks addict Gaby Ruff

Gaby Ruff features editor

g o n e g tt EgLa

Clearly Santa’s favorite Starbucks’ beverage, the Eggnog Latte, embodies the holiday spirit. The beverage almost did not make it back this year, but thanks to angsty eggnog lovers, Starbucks brought it back. The holiday tradition of eggnog never disappoints.

d a re rb te ge t n La

t u n t es e h C tt La e n li a Pr

Gi

Gingerbread is a classic, but I would rather leave it for decorating gingerbread houses rather than in my coffee. The latte is supposedly ‘spicysweet’, but it lacks the perfect ratio of the two.

The Chestnut Praline Latte was unimprssive. Its holiday flavor was mediocre and did not stand up to the expectations that it had. While parts of the drink that tasted like the holidays were good, the rest tasted like plain coffee.

means you should avoid at all costs.

My personal favorite, the Peppermint Mocha, is the perfect blend of chocolate and minty goodness.

Chocolate and peppermint will always be a dynamic duo. You can also order the Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha, which is just as heavenly as the original.

The Caramel Brulee Latte is arguably one of the most popular holiday drink this season. The latte is buttery, sweet, and decadent.

Simply put, it’s an indulgent dessert in a cup.

B r C La ul ar tt ee am e

el

means that you’re safe for an average cup.

Starbucks perfection.

17 | The Current | December 2014

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current How we procrastinated on making this paper: Tumblr

Buzzfeed

Snapchat

Clean out fridge

g y weddin m o t d d A board pinterest

Online shopping

Twitter Selfie time

Make to-do lists

Instagram Lie on the floor

Put together outfits

SL

Craigslist Work on New York accent, even though it’s been perfected

Work on Christmas list (year round)

Netflix Tripadvisor Organize socks December 2014 | The Current | 18

Make-up tutorials

P E E

Look for apartments for after grad school

m oo r h t ba oom n a dr Cle d be an

Find food t ha t t d Ea foo

Paint nails.

Repaint nails

Do other people’s work

arts

pro cras ti na tion

I would have came up with a witty subheadline but I watched an entire season of How I Met Your Mother instead Megan Mowery creative director s a high school senior, I’ve gotten the whole time management thing down to a science; a science I am very good at. The whole come home, study, eat, study, occasionally exercise, bathe, study, and get to bed before ten routine needs discipline, and it comes with practice.

That’s what I’ve told multiple college admissions reps. Truth is, even after twelve years of being in school, I still come home and somehow find myself sitting at my desk at nine o’clock wondering where the day went.

It’s not at all uncommon, it’s not at all asymptomatic, and now we can stop blaming ourselves because its not our fault. Well, sort of.

According to Real Simple’s

A

reporter Amy Spencer, author of The Science Behind Procrastination, our brains are wired to perform simple instinctive things like pull our hand from a fire or to flee from an unpleasant task.

We are also naturally drawn to novelty; new and interesting things objects stimulate our pleasure centers, while routine and mundane tasks have the opposite effect.

Let me tell you, any number of double entry journals all assigned at once would never be described as pleasant.

It’s also possible that when we put off certain tasks, it’s because we do not wish to identify with that these tasks might imply--a conventional, routine, and unexpecting life. Homework defines just that.

Like I said, even after twelve years of coming home with homework I still sometimes don’t really

do what I’m supposed to do when I’m supposed to do it. I told myself I would go home and write this article right after school sometime in early November. It is now early December.

The one day of the break that I tried to write this, I ended up reading about six online articles before stumbling across a Youtube tutorial on how to”get long, beautiful lashes.” Obviously, since I learned this cool new mascara technique, I had to go try it. And since I wasn’t going anywhere, and it would be a real shame to let all that makeup go to waste, I might as well take a picture to update my internet presence.

Commence the 200+ shots and at least half an hour of selfie-ing.

After I washed off my makeup, it was already dark, and although it was only five, I was so sleepy all of a sudden. “You can’t do anything

well when you’re tired, right?” I said to myself as I fell into my was-supposed-to-be-twenty-minutes-butturned-in-to-three-hours nap.

After my nap, it was around eight. I had plans. I deserved it. It was my homework day.

However, there are big costs to procrastination--health is one.

According to Dr. Joseph Ferrari, associate professor of psychology at DePaul University in Chicago, college students who procrastinate have compromised immune systems. Those who procrastinate tend to get more colds , are more likely to get the flu, have gastrointestinal problems, and suffer from insomnia.

Together we can fight procrastination, it’s not a disease but sometimes it feels like it can be, and I’ve listed my go-to remedies for big assignments down below.

TREAT YOURSELF

Set up a reward system. For every assignment(or part of one) you finish, let yourself have a couple (90) minutes of free time.

FIND YOUR STUDY NICHE

I’ve learned that it is a lot more embarassing when you fall asleep at a public library or Barnes and Noble’s cafe than in your room while trying to do homework. I sucessfully worked for months (nights during the week of the due date) on multiple Internal Assesments and essays places where taking an hour long bath wasn’t an option.

TURN OFF YOUR PHONE

Pro-tip: it’s a lot more interesting to have new posts to look at rather than refreshing your timeline every forty seconds only to see two new posts. Also, it’s kind of easier to focus when you’re not checking your latest selfie’s like-count.

19| The Current| December 2014

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current

Column as Opiate of the football junkie I See ‘Em Note to self: Draft a RB before the fourth round

December 2014 | The Current | 20

F

about four years.

“I started in 2010, when a friend recommended it to me because he knew I loved football,” said Marasco, “Its really fun and competitive when you know what you are doing, so my first time was rough because I had no idea what I was doing. I won two games that year.” The best part may be that you will almost always be just as good as any NFL team, whether they’re the Patriots, or the Raiders.

Looking ahead to his next fantasy season, sophomore Colin Graf says “If I chose one thing to change, it would definitely be to choose a running back before the fourth round.”

Those are words to live by.

“If I chose one thing to change, it would definitely be to choose a running back before the fourth round”

50

40 35

Aaron Rodgers

20

Drew Brees

15 10

Jamaal Charles

30

Points

Peyton Manning

25

Matt Forte

40

30

Andrew Luck

20

LeSean McCoy

10

Eddie Lacy

5 0

0

Week

The line graphs show the number of points a week the top ranked players of some of the positions have had this season. The positions we show are Quarterbacks (top left), Running backs (top right), and Wide Receivers (bottom left). On the bottom right is a chart showing the average rank of the top player in each position. Use these charts to pick the best playoff team you can!

35

Calvin Johnson

30

Demaryius Thomas

25 20

Points

T

om Brady, and Peyton Manning: two of the best signal callers you and I will probably ever see. Sports analysts constantly argue the superiority of one or the other. I believe that I have the answer, and it is fairly obvious that Tom Brady is the superior QB. If this were only about postseason success, then Brady is definitely on top. He has three Super Bowl rings compared to Manning’s single bling thing. Brady also has two Super Bowl MVPs under his belt, being the only player other than Hall of Fame Joe Montana to do so.

A quick Brady fun fact; after beating the Broncos this season, no NFL team has a winning record against Brady.

Another Brady fact: he was the fastest QB to 100 career wins.

Currently, Brady has 43 career postseason passing touchdowns, two short of Joe Montana’s record.

Manning has 37. Tom Brady also happens to hold the NFL record, and World Record, for most pass attempts without an interception. (355 pass attempts, verified by Guinness World Records). This impressive nugget of greatness happened during the 2010 season through the final 11 games of the season, in which Brady threw for 26 touchdowns. Manning does have multiple records as well, some being most career passing touchdowns (509), most touchdowns in a season (55), and most passing yards in a season (5,477).

This is not a complete list. Manning does have many records. I am not, however, going to list them off for you because I would rather gush over Mr. Brady.

The biggest indicator of Brady’s superiority may well be that of the 15 times Brady and Manning have played each other, Brady has come out on top 10 times.

One of the few things that I will concede about Manning is his superior commercial taste. Manning has, in my opinion, the greatest football commercial ever (Check it out, it’s called ‘Football on Your Phone’).

You’re welcome.

Will Dobson and Mackenzie Nolan sports editor and staff writer which is a RB/WR, a defense/ special teams, and a kicker. Any antasy football is something given team will also have seven football junkies and casual bench spots, and an injured reserve. fans alike participate in as Fantasy football has evolved they follow their favorite team into a well known fall activity for throughout the season. If one really all demographics. According to tries, one could trace it back all the Fantasy Sports Trade Association way to Wilfred “Bill” Winkenbach, (FSTA), 14% an Oakland area businessman and of the general a limited partner in the Oakland American Raiders. In 1962, in New York, population Winkenbach, along with Bill Tunnel plays fantasy and Scotty Stirling, developed a football. 19% system of organization and a rule of males play, book to the game they developed, and 8% of which would eventually be the basis women play. of modern fantasy football.

Surprisingly, a These basic rules led to the higher percentage of people play revolution of the fantasy football in Canada than in the US (19% to you know today.

14%).

There are many different types Also according to FTSA, of leagues in use today, but in approximately 41.5 million people the arguably most common type played fantasy football in 2014. of league, each team has one One of those 41.5 million is quarterback, two running backs, sophomore Alex Marasco. Alex has two wide receivers, a flex player been playing fantasy football for

Points

Will Dobson sports editor

A.J. Green

15 10

Dez Bryant

Player

Average Rank

Aaron Rodgers (QB)

1.80

Matt Forte (RB)

3.80

Calvin Johnson (WR)

1.00

Jimmy Graham (TE)

1.00

Steven

Hauschka

5 0

Le’Veon Bell

Week

Brandon Marshall

Week

(K)

1.60

sports Scorecard

Get to know your Varsity Athletes

We caught up with some varsity players to ask some fun questions about their sport and themselves, and most importantly, their choice of Disney princess...

Raven Moses Grade/Sport

11/Basketball

Favorite thing about I like playing, like in the games and stuff. And I their sport like hanging out with the team.

William Merlin 11/Basketball

Stefan Moorhouse 12/Wrestling

John Esteva 11/Track

I just like, um, being as a team. Being a family.

Winning

No matter how much you train, it’s always about the day of the event. It’s not really like other sports, you can rely on a teammate to pick up for you, but for track it’s just you.

Least favorite thing about their sport

Conditioning is the hardest; I don’t like running. Especially if it’s not your fault, but you’re on a team so you have to do what you have to do.

Running

Losing

When coach puts me in random events; just because he decides to.

Disney princess are they most like

I like the one from Aladdin.

I don’t even know.

What was that one from Frozen?.. The one with all the ice stuff.. (Elsa)

I think definitely Elsa.

Are you Alice because I want to be your Wonderland?

I’ve never really listened to pickup lines…

Probably, How you doin’?

Just to quote the simple Joey from friends.

Are you from Tennessee because you’re the only ten I see?

Favorite pick-up line

Mackenzie Nolan staff writer

21 | The Current |December 2014

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current

The Hype Squad Playbook

SIX:

Caitlin Murnane staff writer

The most important Check the Hype Squad Twitter account to find ingredient to having fun at basketballs games is out the theme. Go to Party-City after school and knowing the cheers and get enough beads, noise makers, etc. actually participating. We were recently named the rudest Hype Squad in the county, and we take for ALL the fans. pride in that!

ONE:

Go home and invite some friends over to get ready for the game with.

2:

SEVEN:

When it reaches half-time, we all sit down, and usually send one or two people to get food at the concessions. IF YOU GET UP, YOU WILL LOSE YOUR SEAT. IT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO SAVE SEATS.

Go get food with your squad - Chipotle, Moe’s, etc. - The food is overpriced at the concessions stand.

After the first half of the game, the team oftentimes gets tired, and loses a bit of momentum. This is when the hype squad needs to be in full blast.

If you want good seats, and a chance to actually be involved with the Hype Squad, get to the game at least 30 minutes early.

Honestly, most the time our games are complete blow outs and we leave before the rush when there are 3 minutes left. BUT a few games (Hayfield, Mount Vernon, and T.C. Williams) are all games that you want to stay until the end of.

3:

5:

FOUR:

We stand throughout the entire game. If your legs don’t hurt the day after, you’re not a true fan! As soon as the warm up music starts, get up on your feet!

December 2014 | The Current | 22

8:

10:

NINE:

Win or lose (usually win), we go get food afterwards. Most of the time my friends and I will go to Silver Diner, or something that is open late.

sports

Ricki Wood

Ricki Wood

Lady Eagles hope for slam-dunk season

SENIOR FORWARD JAMIE POTTS GEARS UP FOR A FOUL SHOT AGAINST HAYFIELD. POTTS FINISHED WITH 4 POINTS.

Ricki Wood

LADY EAGLES TEAM MEMBERS GATHER FOR A PREGAME PEP TALK BEFORE THE GAME AGAINST HAYFIELD. THE TEAM WON THE GAME 69-36.

THE TEAM LINES UP FOR THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. IT HAS STARTED THE SEASON UNDEFEATED AT 4-0.

Happy Holidays from The Current

23 | The Current | December 2014

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current

Commandments for 2015: Ten commandments given for each class that sets the focus and mind set of every Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior

Judy Beauvais managing editor

“I would like to get my license”

-Senior Susana Zeyila

-Sophomore Anhar Abdelatif

-Senior Reneta Aldaz

“My goal is to go to GMU and graduate with a full IB diploma”

Seniors

await the day of gradutation and can not wait

to walk across the glorious stage to a new life.

“Get my first car”

Judy Beauvais

Kyle Bevenour

“Graduation is something I can cross off.

Can’t wait to graduate!”

-Sophomore Sarah Jordan Take

Senior Celene Bartley

stands in between freedom and joy rides in her new car.

“At the start of 2015, take a picture each day of the year to end up with 365 pictures at the end of 2015”

a picture

of every

For Spring Break grab a group of your closest friends and create a fun and adventure packed road trip.

adventure you run into or any monumental moment and save it for the end of the

-Judy Beauvais

next year and

-Judy Beauvais

you can create

Judy Beauvais

“Finish Junior year and be 50% done with IB”

and amazing

Hit

collage

-Freshman Isabel Nieves

the highway with a couple of friends and end

up anywhere and everywhere

Keishla Morales

-Junior Katie Wolfteich

“Continue full IB with -Junior Louis Chapman

December 2014 | The Current | 24

Judy Beauvais

B’s or higher”

The 2014 Color

Students in IB class work hard to thrive in the IB world to show colleges that they have the potential to succeed in the selected University

festival done by

Edison

“I want to go to flight trampoline park”

to celebrate a

culture and to have fun being covered in color.

Have a paint fight with my friends -Freshman Natasha Kandul