The Eyrie - September 21, 2018

EYRIE

the

FRIDAY, SEPTEMER 21, 2018

VOLUME THIRTY-EIGHT, ISSUE ONE

OLATHE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL 1640 E. 151 St. OLATHE, KAN. 66062 WWW.EYRIEONLINE.ORG @FALCONSCREECH

page 2 – September 21, 2018

the EYRIE

NEWS

ALICE drills replace fire drills Khadija Ceesay This year, the Olathe district has decided to increase the number of ALICE drills and in order for students to practice what to do if an armed intruder were to enter the school.

ALICE stands for Alert, Locate, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate.

The process of ALICE is practically the same procedure the district had years before, but with more opportunities for students to fight back if a school threat was to arise.

Because of the increase for ALICE, there has been a

decrease to the number of fire drills the district will enforce.

The drill increase is part of state law that went active in July of this year to strengthen the success of student safety.

Although there are no changes on what to do if the issue ever arises, there will be instances where the school will be practicing actual drills to be best prepared.

There have also been questions on what to do if the problem arose during Falcon 50.

Clint Albers, principal, said “Falcon 50 would be no different than an ALICE

situation happening during passing period or seminar.”

He pointed out that each

These aren’t full “ fledge drills, just talk

throughs and drills, so students are comfortable with the procedures. If any student has anxiety about it they can come to us

—Clint Albers, principal

Board adopts new policy on vaping Aly Gad One of the most popular trends among teens, is actually extremely dangerous, and is being cracked down on by the district.

Everyone and their mom has heard of JUUL-ing. The risky new vaping device -disguised as a hard drive- Has made vaping in the bathrooms, halls or even in class, very easy. But are people aware of the facts about JUUL-ing?

Each pod contains the same amount of nicotine that is in an entire pack of cigarettes.

JUUL and other vaping products were created for people who are addicted to smoking cigarettes, it is supposed to help

them cut down on smoking, because for someone who smokes a pack a day, vaping is the safer alternative.

Somehow that got translated into, vaping is overall a safer alternative to smoking, when really it’s the complete opposite.

And in the end started a new generation of teens being addicted to nicotine.

Recently there has been a rule change across the Olathe School District, the first time a student is caught vaping, it is a 3-day suspension.

Mr. Mervosh, an assistant principal at Olathe South, let me in on the new rule change and what to expect, “-And that goes for any tobacco products,

whether it’s just regular cigarettes or chew or whatever.

It escalates to five (day suspension) if there’s a second offense.”

Falcon 50 was also affected by vaping becoming super popular, “We’ve closed a few of the restrooms down the far ends of some of the hallways.

But there are still plenty open.

But that is to curb some of that behavior.”

Recently the FDA, reached out to big companies like 7-11 and Walgreens, and issued a 60 day warning.

Those companies now in 60 days have to cut down on the selling of vapes to minors. 131 of those big businesses were

student would have to know whether to hide safely in a nearby classroom or leave through the nearest exit, and that this is why there will be drills practiced down the road and more talks on safety.

The Olathe school district adopted ALICE after a District Safety Director saw it as a more effective kind of practice than the one that had been enforced before.

While talking about ALICE, there may be an increase in student reactions such as anxiety and panic.

Albers comments that the goal of the drills is not to frighten students but to prepare them for whatever may occur and give them a sense of security.

“These aren’t full fledge drills, just talk throughs and drills so students are comfortable with the procedures. If any student has anxiety about it they and come to us and we can work through it to make them feel comfortable.”

The point of ALICE is to keep students aware of the society we live in today and to best prepare them if the issue ever occurred.

issued fines by the FDA as well, ranging from $280 to $11,200.

Some people believe that the FDA cutting down on vaping could drive people back to smoking cigarettes, others believe that the FDA should go farther, do more for this cause.

On Wednesday the 12th, the FDA announced that some vaping products are on the market illegally.

SNAP/ shots Debate

In debate, a team of two people are given either an affirmative or a negative viewpoint of a resolution.

Affirmative teams are supposed to uphold the resolution and negative teams are meant to disprove it. Debate teams argue the same resolution all year but are given different argumentative views at each tournament.

To prepare for these tournaments students research the topic beforehand and have practice debates with classmates.

Jo Ball is the new head coach of the debate team. “Debate is like our family’” says Ball.

Library/Media Center Coffee and Coloring has the first gathering on Friday, October 5th, at 7:00 in the morning, hosted by Mrs. Robinson, all students are invited to come and enjoy coffee and color on coloring sheets.

This event is hosted on a first come, first serve basis so you must sign up before hand to receive a reserved spot.

Multiple events will be hosted throughout the school year including cookie decorating event and a exclusively seniors event.

Coffee and Coloring is an opportunity to hang out with your friends and start off the weekend relaxed. Food and beverages will be provided

Homecoming Activites

This year’s homecoming dance takes place on Sept. 29.

The theme is “A Night in Paris”, and tickets are $15 per person and $25 per couple.

Spirit week takes place Sept 24-28.

Monday is generation day, Tuesday is tourist day, Wednesday is pink day, and Thursday is denim day.

On Wednesday, the powder puff game will take place. After the game, there will be a luau instead of a bonfire.

Friday is the homecoming football game where the homecoming court will be presented. The homecoming queen and king will be crowned.

The homecoming dance will be from 8-11 pm.

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NEWS

September 21, 2018 – page 3

West hosts many colleges Khadija Ceesay Olathe West High School hosted a College Expo night on September 17.

Welcoming many different universities and colleges from around Kansas, Missouri, and even Iowa.

Students from places like Gardner Edgerton High, Shawnee Mission, and Blue Valley North gathered to receive information about things like financial aid, scholarship benefits and to learn more about campus life.

They were also highly encouraged to attend visits, and each school had its own set of flyers and pamphlets or attention getting items to peek their interests.

Some tables even had a barcode that students would take a few minutes to sign up for with their information so that the colleges could scan them, recieve their information, and contact them later on.

There was also a short survey that every high school student was eligible to take to put their

name in for a chance to win prizes like a macbook, or a $75 itunes gift card.

These types of events are highly beneficial towards junior and seniors because it allows them a chance to meet with different kinds of people with all different types of connections.

College admission counselors were able to persuade students and give them information that they wouldn’t have known had they just gone to their website.

The one on one process of this event helped students of all kinds

to communicate with the school and even receive wavers on admission dates if they talked to the admission counselors directly.

Many counselors had expressed the fact that they wish they would have had events like these when they were looking into colleges.

They also commented that the types of schools they represented changed their lives and that they strongly believe their school would be a great fit for all kinds of people.

Overall, the event was very

family friendly with lots of information for parents to attain and to help them get a better feel for the colleges their kids may be applying to.

This event is something that brings people together to help them plan their futures, and learn about the different aspects of college.

Events like these are crucial to ensuring students get the greatest possible help in securing their future and a beneficial way for colleges around the country to promote their schools.

AP scores were down Maddie Black

Students who took the AP United States History on May 11, 2018, received lower score then they expected.

The scores were down across the country. Carol Nycklemoe, AP U.S. history teacher, has been teaching this class for three years and was surprised at how low the scores were.

“The seventh point was very hard to get on the DBQ,” said Nycklemoe. It was very difficult to get the synthesis point.

Kevin Spritzer, AP U.S. teacher, said that his class average was “still above a 3.” The national score, however, was below a three.

“If students prepare for the exam,” said Spritzer, students would receive a higher score.

“Students think that they can just go in,” Spritzer says, but that is not going to get you a good score.

Nycklemoe is going to start having Saturday review sessions and on the AP U.S. history exam day, all of her students are taking an exam as well.

photo by Sam Ricks

Courtney Gerling and Jackson Byrd paid a visit to the Community -Based Rehabilitation (CBR) room on Sept. 14 to talk about how students can join the Special Olympics.

Both are Special Olympics athletes who took medals in the games.

Berling runs track and participates in field activities. She got 6th place in a relay, 4th in shot put, bronze in the 100 meter dash, and gold in running long jump. Byrd is a tennis player who won gold in both the singles and doubles tournaments.

Learn more about their visit on the website: eyrieonline.org.

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the EYRIE

OPINION

Eyrie supports closed lavatories The bathrooms in the 1100 and 200 halls are locked during Falcon 50 (F50). Locking bathrooms might seem unfair, but does not have a big impact.

The administration is locking the two bathrooms so students have a harder time getting away with certain offenses, such as vaping and vandalism, which have been issues this year and last year.

The bathrooms are unlocked before and after F50.

The idea, according to Clinton Albers, principal, is that bathrooms would be easier to supervise during F50 to stop vandalism, vaping and other offenses.

In an interview with Albers, it appeared that this decision was thought out.

He theorized that locking the two bathrooms would not significantly impact the student body because even though there are students who do not eat in the commons, they would go through the commons to pick up food, and they could then use the three unlocked restrooms off of the commons.

He also theorized that reducing the number of bathrooms available would make the available bathrooms “less private” because there would be more students in the bathroom to catch potential offenders.

The only criticism the Eyrie editorial board has of this decision is that it appears extreme and can inconvenience other students to close off bathrooms during F50 to stop vandalism and vaping, but it’s for the greater good of the school.

Write to us!!!

Letters! We want letters! Write to the paper to express your opinion--a gripe, a solution, a complaint, a compliment or an observation.

We ask that letters be signed. Submit letters to any staff member, take to Rm. 907, place in Ms. Springer's office mailbox or send an e-mail to journ@olatheschools.org. We cannot publish any material that is defamatory or slanderous. The newspaper also reserves the right to edit letters. Letters due October 23.

Mental illness takes a toll on high schoolers Most people can agree that it is important for people with mental illness to talk about their struggles.

Gathering support from others can be an important factor in the recovery process, as isolation can cause mental health symptoms to increase sharply in

com men tary Hannah Holliday severity according to the US National Library of Medicine. Being social can help develop positive coping mechanisms, lessen stress, and build a

higher self-esteem.

Unfortunately, 1 in 5 youths ages 1318 will have at least one mental illness in their lifetime, and 56% of all affected Americans do not receive treatment.

Roughly 18.1% of the United States population have some type of anxiety disorder according to the Anxiety and

the EYRIE Olathe South High School 1640 E. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66062 www.eyrieonline.net (913) 780-7160 / FAX (913) 780-7170 Member of KSPA, NSPA, JEA, CSPA CSPA Gold Medalist NSPA All American & First Class Award Quill & Scroll First

Depression Association of America. It is crucial to be educated on mental health; it affects everyone in some way.

Though it is important to discuss mental health, there is a line where this discussion can be unhealthy.

Mental health is well on its way to be fully destigmatized, but there is still a great deal of discomfort around the idea of being emotionally close to someone with mental illness.

This is understandable, as most people would feel responsible if someone they were supporting were to have an episode, self-harm, or commit suicide.

Feeling constantly responsible for the life or well-being of someone or being lashed out at during an episode is extremely toxic for both parties.

It is imperative to be mindful about relationships, especially when people with mental illness are involved.

Though people with mental illness should not be treated like glass, there are differences to be considered.

For instance, many people with anxiety tend to be extra sensitive to Advisor Heather Springer Editorial Board Tristan Allen Maddie Black Alex Burbidge Khadija Ceesay Mara Gee Reporters Tristan Allen Maddie Black Alex Burbidge

Khadija Ceesay Mark Elliott Alyson Gad Emily Gray Mara Gee Faith Holliday Hannah Holliday Nalia Lowry McKinley Schrader Megan Stoerman Amanda Turvey

others’ actions, tone of voice, and word choice. They may ask questions to gather extra reassurance. Many people with depression need reassurance about their self worth and hope for the future.

While anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental illnesses, it is important to be educated on other type of mental illness, such as dissociative disorders and eating disorders.

The reality is that no one person can cure someone else. If someone is having an episode or lashing out, they should be in the hands of a trained adult, not an untrained adolescent.

The best way to support someone suffering with mental illness and not in a critical state is to listen. Know their triggers and be mindful. Joke in a respectful way, at their level of comfort.

Be there and be empathetic.

Feeling important and loved is one of the most important aspects of mental illness recovery. The counseling office is always available for resources, or visit the Eyrie website.

Photographers Katherine Dickerson Elisabeth Hernandez Alek Mackey Samantha Ricks Paula Shockey

the eyrie is the official student-run newspaper of Olathe South High School, published 9-10 times a year. It is printed by the Sedalia Democrat.

Views expressed in the eyrie do not necessarily represent those of the adviser, the administration or school district.

the EYRIE

OPINION

September 21, 2018 – page 5

School start time pushed back benefits teens Many students are left tired and bleary at end of the school day due to an early start time and the copious amounts of schoolwork done through school and at home.

Studies have shown that teens would excel more at school if they were given more time to sleep. School districts across

com men tary

Megan Stoerman

the nation have begun starting their school day later than most.

According to the Washington Post article titled [“Why it’s ridiculous that high schools start so early in the morning,”] more than 40 percent of public high schools start their day before eight a.m.

Teens often find themselves not being able to function before lunch, while many also report studying for test and quizzes not being effective. This all makes sense because without a good night’s rest the brain’s hippocampus and neocortex

cannot work together to process memories and make connections with past memories. The teenage brain is wired to not be able to fall asleep before 11 p.m. and cannot wake up before 11 a.m. as well.

Most students beam with happiness when asked if school should start at nine. Luke McBride, freshman, agreed with the statement and even said that having school start at nine “would be awesome!”

While students see benefits in making the school day longer there are also negatives that

should be looked into such as not having the school day surpass eight hours according to McBride. If the school day were to go longer than eight hours then many students would have to adjust their busy work schedules.

Some of the many benefits and advantages for students could be getting more time to sleep and “students who have jobs would have more time to do homework,” and possibly even do more homework in the morning says Kristen Luttrell, senior.

Bringing technology into classrooms helpful It’s the 21st century, technology is advancing at an astonishing rate, even allowing people to read books over the internet, yet many schools still hold on to the 15 or 20 pound textbooks.

Schools need to ditch the hard copies, and head to the internet for a solution.

Although many people argue

com men tary McKinley Schrader

that the switch to digital can be detrimental to student’s work, there are many reasons why it is beneficial to them.

Jared M., junior, estimates that, “[his] backpack feels almost two times heavier,” when he has to haul a single textbook to and from his home. Making the switch to digital textbooks can make student’s lives easier by reducing the total amount of weight by approximately 20 pounds in their backpacks.

The most advantgeous part of the switch to digital for school districts is the cost reduction.

Schools pay hundreds of dollars less to put a textbook online than to order hundreds of textbooks.

Students are also faced with the conflict of not being able to access schoolwork when absent.

With sites such as Moodle, or Google Classroom, students can work on and submit schoolwork from the convenience of their home.

However, there are several issues with going digital. Not all students have access to the internet at home.

The internet is also not a stable platform. Technical glitch-

es can happen every once in a while.

The largest concern with going digital would be the fact that students can be irresponsible with technology. Not all students can be trusted to use the technology how it was intended.

With the cons of digital classrooms in mind, there are ways to counteract these issues. Students with no internet access can still check out a hard copy of the textbook, as most schools still have them on hand.

The full article can be found on eyrieonline.org.

4-day school week saves thousands of dollars Colorado School District 27J, which serves nearly 18,000 students near Denver, made headlines in August when they stopped having school on Mondays, creating a four-day school week. Schools across the country, including the Olathe Public Schools, should adopt similar schedules.

com men tary Tristan Allen

The four-day schedule was adopted in 27J to help save money, according to NPR. Chris Fielder, superintendent of 27J, anticipated that “about $1 million” would be saved with by reducing expenses such as transportation and utilities.

Fielder also estimated that running fewer busses would alone saves about $700,000.

It can be argued that the possible savings in the Olathe Public Schools would be more than 27J, since Olathe schools served over 30,000 students in 2017, which is more than the 18,000 in 27J. The fact that Olathe

Public Schools serves more students suggests that reducing how frequently students attend school could save even more money, because Olathe Public Schools would not be serving 30,000 students each day, or 12,000 more students than 27J. The only criticism about the savings argument concerning a four-day school week is that, percentage-wise, the savings are not significant. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), the maximum possible cost savings that come with a four-day week is 5.43 percent, and even then, the

average savings are between 0.4 to 2.5 percent. However, based on the estimates from Fielder, the savings could still be hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Not much research has been done on schools with a four-day week. However, a report by two professors from the University of Arkansas concluded that “the five-day districts had slightly higher test scores than the matched four-day districts, with the greatest difference for elementary level students.”

The full article, which analyzes other pros and cons, is on eyrieonline. org.

speak

OUT

What are your feelings about getting one-to-one devices?

“Yes please! So much better than books.”

Abbie Sorell Freshmen

“It’s a great opportunity, but some people don’t know how to treat the devices right.”

Ian Wiley Junior

“I think it’s a very organized for our generation, however, we are so wrapped up in technology that it could consume us.”

Hailey Pittman Senior

page 6 – September 21, 2018

FEATURE

FOCUS . . . on senior standouts How does Maya Burke keep up with all her extra-curriculars?

ACTIVITIES: HS, Spanish National Honor Society, StuCo, Math Team and Student Senate

WHAT is your favorite quote?

Light blue, because I like the color.

Maya Burke is passionate about helping those around her, be that inside or outside of school.

Burke serves in her church through singing worship and leading a second and third grade girls group twice a month.

“It’s my home away from home,” she said.

Burke also started a place for students to gather at school.

“The good Lord put it on my heart [to start Endure],” Burke said. “I didn’t act on it sophomore year, [but rather] the summer before junior year.”

Three others worked alongside Burke to help her kick start a group with a goal of inviting people to worship and pray.

Endure is open to everyone and being Christian is not a requirement. The group meets every Friday mornings from 7:20 a.m. - 7:50 a.m. in room 503.

Around the school, Burke works as president of the Choir Leadership Team (CLT), a role she landed by just being involved with choir during her sophomore and junior years.

“I’m in charge of organizing a lot of events and meetings. We do a lot of behind the scenes stuff,” Burke said.

Burke plans on attending Wichita State University for the music education program.

“The dream is to be a choir teacher and a mom. I really want to be a mom [of] three or four kids,” Burke exclaimed.

Why is being a visual captain enjoyable for Shaun Carrier?

ACTIVITIES: Percussionist, Visual Captain

How many brothers do you have?

1

Shaun Carrier, 17, senior, is visual captain and percussionist here at Olathe South.

“My mom really wanted one of her two sons to be a percussionist and my older brother passed the baton down to me.”

Shaun started playing when he was a mere ten years old.

He sees drumming as an extra cirricular activity in college rather than a possible future career pursuit. Instead he says it is a fun hobby that he enjoys participating in.

As visual captain he guides everyone in the band to look as good as possible when they are having a performance.

Student held positions

that will go to their section, while Carrier will be guiding everyone while marching and he will also give them tips on things to improve on for their next performance.

“I auditioned last March for the visual captain position because I believed I was capable and I wanted to help.

It’s a lot of fun because I think I’m helping kids throughout the season,” Carrier said when asked about what he enjoys about captaining.

Carrier will cherish every moment he can until the very end, when he is no longer able to play percussion, as to create the best possible memories of his time as the visual captain and as a percussionist of the Olathe South band.

5

the EYRIE

on

five

The five questions: ❶ What is your go-to food? ❷ What’s your favorite song? ❸ Who is the most overrated song artist? ❹ What first world problem do you have? ❺ What is your dream car?

Cody Blake, freshman Q 1: Pizza.

Q 2: “Thunder” by Imagine Dragons Q 3: Lil Pump.

Q 4: The school having power outages in the middle of the day.

Q 5: A 1969 Camaro.

Anna Palacio, sophomore Q 1: Chocolate ice cream.

Q 2: “You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott Q 3: Iggy Azalea.

Q 4: There isn’t enough ice cream in the world.

Q 5: A blue Slug Bug.

Jillian Wrisinger, junior Q 1: Grapes.

Q 2: “Love Is Bigger Than Anything in its Way”

by U2 Q 3: Taylor Swift.

Q 4: Having no more unkindness to anyone.

Q 5: A 2018 Toyota Camry.

Ben Marsh, senior Q 1: Chicken wraps.

Q 2: “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem” by Kenny Chesney Q 3: Florida Georgia Line

Q 4: My phone charger either always breaks or isn’t long enough.

Q 5: A Ford Bronco (the old one).

Teri Daugherty, history teacher Q 1: Cheez-its.

Q 2: The Star Spangled Banner.

Q 3: Taylor Swift.

Q 4: I’m two iPhones behind!

Q 5: A left-handed Suburban.

the EYRIE

FEATURE

September 21, 2018– page 7

College Now, AP testing offer college credit hours to students BSU accepts all students Emily Gray

College Now and the Advanced Placement (AP) test can both be good options for students taking AP classes.

For both options students are eligible for up to six hours of college credit.

The biggest difference between the two credit options is how the student earns the credit for the course.

Enrollment in Johnson County Community College (JCCC) will earn college credit at a price

of $279 per semester.

Essentially the students will be taking a college class in a college setting.

The grade earned in class will be the grade earned at JCCC.The AP test is taken at the end of the year, costing $93.

The AP test can only be taken once however, so the grade received at the end is the score the student earns.

Amy Iwert is the counselor in charge of College Now. “Some students choose AP over College Now because it is a

School starts S.O.S. program Mara Gee On Monday, Sept. 17, there was a schoolwide, hour long advisory for the purpose of raising awareness about the potential signs of suicidal students and how students can prevent a classmate from possibly committing suicide.

Advisory was scheduled after a 39 minute first period, in which a 22 minute long video was shown.

The video stressed the importance of recognizing signs of suicide in classmates and friends; some of those being sudden drinking, intense feelings of loss, promiscuity, dabbling in drugs, petty theft, etc.

Should students see these signs in a friend, they are advised

to tell a trusted adult, keep them from being alone, stay away from assuming that threats are “just blowing of steam,” and not to misinterpret their behavior as an attitude problem.

A self-evaluation questionnaire was handed out. It gave students a chance to reflect on their own behavior in the past month to determine whether or not they showed signs of depression.

After the evaluation, students were able to fill out an appointment slip in the event that they needed to speak to a certified psychologist about personal matters or concern for a peer.

The library was closed for students who were in need of someone to talk to after the lesson.

Licensed clinicians from Johnson

little less expensive and it is the most transferable credit.” Iwert said.

Colleges are particular about which, if any, option they allow to be transferred to their school.

If a student is looking to go to a certain university outside of state, it would be advisable to check the college’s website to see what is accepted where.

Generally, schools in the Midwest will accept JCCC College Now credit while at schools farther away will accept the AP test more.

Which option the student chooses should be based on where the student would like to go.

“Students should consider how things will transfer into the institution they plan to graduate from and if a high stakes test is something he/she will perform well on,” Iwert said.

“Students should check the Transfer Guides on JCCC’s website to see how their courses will transfer and look up the AP score requirements for the university they plan to attend.” said Iwert.

photo by Sam Ricks

A copy of the Brief Screen for Adolecent Depression (BSAD) Olathe South students were able to take on Monday, Sept. 17.

County Mental Health and other district personnel were invited to advise students.

Not one person who was invited declined the offer.

This newly implemented is called Signs of Suicide (S.O.S.), which is a nationally recognized program that the district requires high schools to partake in. Monday was the first time any of the

Olathe high schools tried the program.

“I’ve always been outspoken about mental health and suicide awareness, because it seems like every year we have a teenager commit suicide,” Jean Busey, counselor, said.

The full article about the SOS program cab be found on the Eyrie website, eyrieonline.org

use them, Nitschke said, as a way to keep them from being a distraction.

Laurie Plankers, English teacher, hasn’t noticed much of a problem with phones.

“I wasn’t so strict at the beginning of the year, so by January [phones] became a problem,” she said. Plankers decided that “[phones] should be put away unless directed otherwise,” she said.

Carol Nycklemoe, AP U.S. teacher, has a different policy for cell phones.

She actually gives extra credit

to students who either don’t have there phones out or there plug in and charging.

“So distracting,” says Nycklemoe, “Even the strongest students are distracted by their cell phones.”

She used to be indifferent as to whether phones were out or not but recent studies prove that test scores are lower, she changed her policy to help her students.

“We definitely need to figure out a way to get students to put away [their phones],” Helen Hardgree, Quest teacher, said.

Improvements in technology provoke new ways to prevent distractions Mara Gee Having to deal with technology as a distraction in classrooms has become somewhat of a recent issue for teachers.

Cindy Nitschke, U.S. history teacher, has noticed a growing problem in the “last seven years,” she said.

Nitschke chooses to handle the phone epidemic the same way most teachers do – put away at all times unless instructed to use it – but with some extra parameters.

If it’s out repeatedly during

the hour, Nitschke will put it in a box for her students to pick up by the end of class. Should she receive objections from the student, the phone will go to the office and the student has to pick it up from an assistant principal.

Nitschke also requires phones to be put in the box when students leave to use the restroom.

She does this to prevent students from texting each other to meet outside of the classroom, she said.

“I have [outlets] around the room” and encourage students to

Tristan Allen

Last year, several students started the Black Students Union (BSU): a club dedicated to discussing pressing issues for minorities both at school and in society.

Despite the name, the club is open to all students, regardless of race. The BSU also represents racial minorities other than AfricanAmericans.

The BSU had their first meeting Sept. 13 in room 416 during session A of Falcon 50. Kim Wahaus, social studies teacher, is the sponsor of the group. John Dawkins, Kali Mezgebu and Leah Tariku, seniors, are leading the group this year.

Mezgebu thinks students should join the club because it acts as a “safe haven” for minority students.

“A lot of kids don’t have a voice,” Dawkins said, also as to why students should join BSU. The club will talk about issues facing minorities at school and in the community, do community service and support minority-owned businesses. They also have t-shirts this year, and might go on a field trip.

During the first meeting, the BSU recruited members, introduced themselves to each other, and collected contact information to form a group chat. This chat can be used to share interesting articles to discuss at future meetings or to vent about any experiences students have as minorities at school.

At the time of this article, the BSU is mainly made up of seniors.

Even though the first meeting already happened, they are still looking to recruit new members, especially students not graduating this year.

To find out more about the BSU, information can be found in Wahaus’s in room (416).

Information can also be located on the BSU’s Twitter account: @oshsBSU.

page 8 –

the EYRIE

Stress increases because of pressure Khadija Ceesay Stress is a constant and growing issue within our society that continues to affect the lives of many young people, especially as they advance with school and throughout college.

Things like work, extracurricular, and family life can have a big impact on students.

Piles of homework continue to stack up each day and attribute to the high expectations from parents and teachers.

Sometimes it gets to the point where even one day of missing classes for something such as an illness. Many students also miss days due to doctor’s appointment.

Missing days results in mass amounts of stress among students.

Students are succumbing depression, anxiety, and panic because of such weight that school imposes.

There are less kids going out to socialize but rather bottling up in their houses to study for multiple exams at once.

Hailey Allison, senior, says that she is almost always stressed because of

work.

There are also many ways that people deal with stress. Allison said, “I bake a lot, and watch YouTube, and vines to calm myself down” Allison suggests, like many others, that to cope with stress people should find a hobby that they truly enjoy.

Finding a hobby would keep students involved and distracted from the pressure that school constantly provides.

By finding something that students enjoy to put a bit of their effort into it, they find a way to calm themselves down from the pressures of everyday life.

Lilee James, senior, is also quite stressed.

To cope with things like being involved in many demanding clubs and activities, she cooks to keep herself occupied.

“I have a lot on my plate because it’s senior year, and I don’t want to disappoint my parents” James said.

James pointed out that because she cooks a lot when she’s upset, her family fridge is overflowing.

She says her family has “like four tubs of things that I’ve made in my house because I cook a lot”.

Abigail Dearing, sophomore, says she is also stressed because of the pressures and expectations of school.

She copes by “crying a lot” and advises other people to not follow in her steps and find the best way to cope with the pressure.

Though many students give good advice to deal with stressful situations, they often do not follow through with them.

The weight that school, work, and extra activities puts on students has become too much for them to handle and only continues to be a problem.

Students should be given the opportunity to socialize and participate in activities while still doing amounts of homework that doesn’t come in giant, stressful, pressue filled chunks.

High school is an important time, preparing for college, building important life skills, and overall the time to mature. So being well rested for a long day of classes is crucial.

Even though students can’t control when school starts to accommodate their sleep schedules, they can take steps to go to sleep earlier, organize their lives so they aren’t as stressed, or just help themselves get into a positive routine.

When students are stressed they are unable to think about anything other than their cause of stress, causing a snowball effect, thus creating more stress.

When students are unable to sleep because of stress, they don’t get enough sleep to be prepared for the next day. When students are unprepared for the next day, it

causes them even more stress which makes students stress even more.

This creates a loop which is hard for high school students to break out of.

Not getting enough sleep can have pretty bad consequences for high schoolers. It can limit the ability to learn, cause students to forget important information, like dates, events or when your homework’s due.

It can also make you more prone to acne or other skin problems which causes even more self-esteem problems among students.

Naps help students for days when they have limited time for sleep. Naps also provide students a great way to take a break from studying and focus on themselves.

Whatever ways that students decompress make sure that it does not create even more stress.

Older students need to sleep more Aly Gad The amount of sleep high schoolers need, compared to what they actually get, is dramatic.

The recommended amount is nine and a half hours for teenage brains to function well and be able to pay attention in school.

After taking a poll, it shows that freshmen get about nine and a half hours of sleep, sophomores and juniors get seven and a half hours, and seniors a staggering six and a half hours.

It is proven that there is a twohour shift in teenager’s mental clock during puberty.

So, someone who is able to go to sleep at nine, suddenly can’t until 11.

It also means waking up two hours later than normal. And as a result, high schoolers are very sleep deprived.

September 21, 2018 - page 9

FEATURE

Maddie Black Every day, multiple students attend a seven-hour school day, with practice and/or work after school, and then come home late and start homework. How do these students balance work, activities, homework, sports, and a social life?

Carolyn Wilson, junior, goes through this every day.

Everyone says that junior year is the hardest, and Wilson took it to the next level.

Even with the five AP classes she’s taking, along with cross country, swim team and the 14 clubs/activities she’s in, she wants to get more involved.

“I enjoy the activities that I’m in,” Wilson said. She also joined clubs like; BRAVE, I Choose to Live, Pacer Puppets, United Sound, Falcon Mentors, and Writing Center; because she loves helping people.

That’s just school involvement.

Outside of school, she works at Red Robin on the weekend, is involved with her church’s youth group, and the science fair.

Staying organized, surprisingly, is easy for Wilson.

“I think organization is very important,” says Wilson, “I would go crazy if I wasn’t organized.”

She writes everything down in

her planner and has a different binder for every class.

Wilson likes to challenge herself because she wants good preparation for college.

“I especially try to challenge myself in science and math because I want to be a forensic scientist,” said Wilson. When she gets free time she usually spends it with I hope I can her friends and get some family. sholarships

Another victim from taking of commitment hard classes and busyness is so that I can Jordan Deleon, senior. afford college,” L i k e -Carolyn Wilson, Deleon Wilson, is involved in AP classes; junior. four AP classes to be exact. He is also in the chamber choir and advanced repertory theatre class.

Outside of school, he dances 25 hours a week, rehearses for musicals, takes voice lessons, and meets with a college advisor.

“I have to keep myself busy or else I get bored,” said Deleon, “Why waste time doing nothing when you could be doing what you love?”

“

This year has been extremely stressful for Deleon because he’s auditioning for 12 colleges.

Deleon handles the stress by taking everything one step at a time.

“If I worry about something that isn’t affecting me at the moment, then I cause myself the pain of having to stress about it twice,” said Deleon.

Along with that, he has started to meditate in the mornings to start off his day relaxed. “I am enthusiastically loyal to my GoogleCalendar schedule,” says Deleon, “and I anticipate activities so that I’m prepared.”

Being involved has compelled Deleon to become more strong-willed.

“I have learned to never give up, even in the darkest hours—like literally in the darkness hours when I’m doing homework at 1 a.m.,” said Deleon.

Figuring out how to balance school, homework, sports, activities, work and a social life, at the time, might seem hard and unrewarding.

However, in the end a usy schecule leads to great achievements, opportunities in the future, and no regrets.

StuCo starts initiatives to fight mental illness

Hannah Holliday

The Student Council (StuCo) is working on a mental health initiative to better the Olathe School District.

They are working closely with the administration to create several goals to break the mental health stigma and “make students feel like they belong add have a safe place in Olathe South,” according to Peyton Fair, junior and StuCo committee member.

There has been an increasing interest in mental health activities from students, therefore alerting

the administration to the need for mental health resources.

Library activities have been planned to help students de-stress, and mental health lectures will be held in future advisory lessons.

On Sept. 17, students in their advisory lesson watched a video about the signs of suicide and what students can do to help out their fellow peers.

The school also collected information on students’ mental health situations so they can act on it if they need to.

The library that day was closed so clinicians from Johnson County

page 10 – September 21, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

Youtube different today compared to years ago McKinley Schrader

‘Trench’

‘Why Don’t We’ ‘Blink-182’ Maddie Black

Alex Burbidge

Twenty one pilots’ new album “Trench”, which may be one of the most hyped-up albums of all time, will release on Oct. 5.

Four singles were released from July through Sept. “My Blood”, “Jumpsuit”, “Levitate”, and “Nico And The Niners” make up the EP “My Blood and Few Others From Trench”.

The album’s sound varies greatly, and listeners often do not know what is coming next. This refreshing version of pop/rock makes “Trench” stand out.

“My Blood” tends to have repetitive lyrics, but the instrumentals make it just as unique as the rest of the album.

“Nico and The Niners” tends to be the most popular song within the fan base because of the prominent ukulele sound.

Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun are the two sole members of twenty one pilots. Joseph is the lead singer and keyboardist, and Dun plays the drums.

The “Trench” tour has sold out every show in the United States. The tour starts in September and will continue throughout 2019.

Before twenty one pilots announced their new album, the band members took a year long break.

In an interview with Alternative Press, Josh Dun stated, “During the time where we were creating and working, we kind of wanted to just step back a little bit, and be present in that world,” Overall, “Trench” is estimated to be an extremely successful album full of references to past albums and fan-pleasing content.

Rising new boy band Why Don’t We released an entertaining, unique, full-length, debut album, “8 Letters” on August 31.

Along with the title track “8 Letters,” and the previously released songs “Talk” and “Hooked,” they released five new songs; “Choose,” “In Too Deep,” “Friends,” “Hard,” and “Falling.” Why Don’t We contains five members: Daniel Seavey, Zach Herron, Jack Avery, Corbyn Besson, and Jonah Marias.

After releasing five EPs and multiple singles, they finally dropped their extremely anticipated album. They were influenced by some urban artists like; Chance the Rapper, Drake and Maroon 5, and some personal experiences inspired their new album.

My least favorite song is “Friends” because the pre-chorus sounds like a modern version of “the Wheels on the Bus.” However, the song gets stuck in your head very easily.

The best song is “8 Letters” because of the heart throbbing meaning behind the song. “8 Letters” stands for I love you.

Another favorite is “Talk” because it has a good beat. “Cause you don’t listen when I talk” is one of the lyrics from the chorus which is about being in a relationship with no communication. “In Too Deep” is another good song off the album because it starts off slower and then when the chorus hits, it gets faster, which makes the lyrics better in a sense.

On September 4, they released dates for their 2019 “8 Letters” tour in the United States.

Fifteen years ago, Blink-182 embarked on a mission to produce an album that would be even better than their previous album, “Take Off Your Pants and Jacket.” They accomplished that goal, releasing their self-titled album, their greatest album to date.

Focused on more serious topics than in the past, this album is usually pointed to by fans as the point where the band matures with songs such as “I Miss You,” “All of This,” and “Stockholm Syndrome.”

The album leads off with “Feeling This,” which is arguably the best song on the album.

“Asthenia” and “Always,” which essentially function as one song, is another highlight, diving deep into the thought of losing all memory and is thought of as one of the most obvious signs of experimentation, which is what this album is all about. It wraps up perfectly with “All of This,” the deepest and most serious song of the album with a chorus singing “use me, Holly,” signifying a cheating girlfriend that was just using boys.

More cheerful songs are also heard on the album, such as “Here’s Your Letter,” which is a fan-favorite about having to let go of a bad relationship and eventually just having to throw it away.

Overall this is likely Blink182’s greatest album. In the fifteen years since its release, nothing they have released has been close to being this good, nor has anything they had released on their previous three albums.

Faith Holliday

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As a media that most of the world uses, YouTube has changed massively in the years it has existed. Originally just for the sharing of music, YouTube has changed into a news outlet, an entertainment source, and a job opportunity for many people.

One of the simpler changes to YouTube is the layout of the site.

The site has changed to show what channels an account has subscribed to, the thumbnails of videos, and has moved some features to different tabs. The old layout included popular tags, featured videos, and included an “Invite friends” tab all on the home page.

Cameron, senior, has had experience with running a YouTube channel throughout different eras of YouTube’s lifecycle. Cameron says that “[The layout] has gone from makeshift, to a much cleaner and refined layout.”

YouTube Red, originally unveiled in 2015, was a $10 subscription to YouTube itself to remove ads on videos and access to “YouTube originals,” original videos structured as a television series. Cameron makes a point when he says, “Adblock can get rid of ads for free, and most

people agree that the [YouTube] originals aren’t that good.”

Some people even go to YouTube for work. Channels have the ability to monetize their videos, allowing them to collect ad revenue. There are rules in place to make sure people don’t make money off of plagiarized content.

However, these rules have changed a lot over the years. Newer policies have put restrictions on the content of videos, even stating that a video cannot contain, “sensitive information… [or] explicit language.” The users have taken a large dislike to these policies.

Cameron has been affected by these rules, he says, “I can’t post any video with mild language or it can get demonetized.”

A YouTube sponsored program, YouTube Rewind, has also surfaced in recent years.

This program is supposedly to feature some of the most popular channels and videos from the year. However, most of its audience have been angered by it, with differing opinions over what it considers “popular.”

As the internet changes, YouTube will continue to change.

Whether it’s for the better or worse, that’s all in the eye of the beholder.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Students have options for homecoming Megan Stoerman With homecoming fast approaching, students are often overcome with the task of finding an outfit, flowers, and how to do their makeup, hair, and nails.

Finding where to buy a homecoming dress is a daunting task for most girls. With all of the options and styles, finding something that works best for you can be tough.

But never fear because here are some of the favorite places to buy dresses from the students interviewed. Some in person favorites were Windsor and Macy’s.

Both of these can be found at the Oak Park Mall, saving you a second trip.

Many students also ended up buying their dresses online from a stores like Promgirl or Lulu’s.

The only downside of buying dresses online is that sizing can be difficult. One student in particular purchased two dress in different sizes to find her perfect fit. On the plus side dresses are typically less expensive from online retailers.

These stores all have a variety of styles of dresses and are guar-

anteed to have something that will be perfect for everyone.

Other places that students like are Kohl’s, Dillard’s, Camile, Altr’d State, and Rue 21. Even though these places might not be as popular they will still have a great selection.

Getting your date flowers such as corsage or boutonniere is also very popular among students, plus they look great in pictures and are a fun memento from the dance. Popular places to buy your flowers are Hyvee and the Flowerman.

However, do not feel pressured to buy flowers because surveys show that 36 percent of people, or four out of 11 people surveyed did not buy any.

Service at both Hyvee and the Flowerman was reported of being good and friendly. The flowers at both establishments were also said to have been in good condition. The flowers overall cost the same at the Flowerman and Hyvee. So, really it is a toss-up between Hyvee and the Flowerman.

Nevertheless, you are destined to be happy with your flora no matter which shop you buy them from.

Deciding where to or not have your makeup, hair, and nails done can somewhere can also be a daunting task. Though never fear because many students reported also having done these things at home.

The good thing about doing these on your own is that you get to decide 100 percent how it looks and it will not cost you any additional dime.

One place that was recommended to have these done at was Essnails if you do not want to do them on your own.

Once you are all ready to go most students went to dinner at places like Spin Pizza and Hyvee Market Grill. With dinner being more casual students found themselves spending more money on their outfit to compensate the difference.

Even though all of these are big decisions do not forget to have fun at homecoming and enjoy yourselves, Falcons, and remember that where you buy or not buy these things only matters for a small moment and that the experience is the most memorable and fun part of the night.

it’s a

MUST three things that should definitely be on your list

2. Fantasy YA

September 21, 2018 – page 11

Fall brings new fantasy releases in the young adult genre. Some new fantasy books are Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas, releasing Oct. 23, and Immortal Reign by Morgan Rhodes, releasing Oct. 9.

Both Kingdom of Ash and Immortal Reign are the final books in long awaited series that are guaranteed to blow fans away. A new fantasy release this Fall is Time’s Convert by Deborah Harkness, released Sept. 18., is about what it means to be a vampire.

1. Creepy Thrillers Fall is the best season to read a good book as the temperature and leaves fall around you.

Often times with school starting again bookworms either find themselves without any time to indulge in a good novel or they can never find a great book.

Halloween is soon approaching and many find

themselves ready for a book that will scare them silly. The books that will do just that are The Outsider and Owen King

by Stephen King and A Stranger in the House by Shari Lapena.

These are guaranteed to knock readers socks off but the book that will truly entice readers with every page is House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski.

3. Down to earth reads

Historical fiction and nonfiction are genres that also have great novels being released this fall. The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris and 21 Lessons of the 21st century by Yuval Noah Harari were both released on Sept. 4.

Lastly, a new memoir by Lisa Brennan-Jobs called Small Fry, released on Sept. 4, takes readers into the life of artist Chrisaan Brennan and Apple co-founder Steve Job’s daughter. Brennan-Jobs leads readers through her life as she was thrown into “two imperfect but extraordinary homes” according to Goodreads.

page 12 – September 21, 2018

Computer Science offers opportunity McKinley Schrader The computer science academy offers a three to four year course working specifically with computer programming and safety.

Dylan Stanley, a junior in the computer science academy, is preparing for his career every day in class.

Stanley has been in the computer science academy (CSA) for three years now, and is currently enrolled in cyber security. He signed up for the program because “[he] enjoys working with computers.”

Stanley hopes to, “be in some kind of programming business” as a career.

Although no experience is required to join the program, Stanley has had prior experience.

Stanley states, “My parents both work in software development.

I’ve been interested in and programming for many years.”

Although Stanley states that, “the program has been slightly beneficial to [him],” Jacob Bengel,

junior, conversely says, “The program has been very useful for me. I’ve learned a lot about different programming languages and how they work.”

Students in the CSA are also required to do extracurricular activities.

Students must complete a total of 200 “E-hours” throughout the four-year course, or 150 for a 3-year course.

Students that were already in the program when the e-hours requirement started were given a handicap: 50 less hours required dependent on which class they are in. Stanley states, “Because I was in the program for a year before the e-hours, 50 hours were taken off the requirement.”

Andrew Meile, teacher for the CSA program, says the e-hours concept is a new addition to the program, “We’ve never tried anything like this before, there’s bound to be some issues at some point, but we’ll figure it out.”

As a program for people wanting to be experts in the field, not all of the classes are simple. In Stanley’s opinion, “The second

photo by Samantha Ricks

Dylan Stanley also prepares for his career in other classes. Math is an important subject for computer science, as almost all computers run on equations. Stanley has done excessively well in math throughout high school. Stanley has done so well, that he is currently enrolled in linear algebra, a course not taken by most high schoolers. Stanley hopes this knowledge will help in his future career. year class, AP computer science principles, was the most difficult.

It deals with a lot of higher level logic in programming.”

Stanley recommends the program to anyone interested in

Students prepare for ACTs and SATs Faith Holliday With school back in session, testing season is just around the corner.

Oct. 10 is national test day for all Olathe Public Schools. Students will have the opportunity to take the practice SAT or the PSAT. Amy Brown, counselor, has some advice for test takers.

“My advice for first time test takers would be to sign up for test prep a couple months in advance and get as much practice in as possible. In addition, it is always good to remind students to get good rest the night before and eat a good breakfast the morning of the exam,” Brown said.

Many students are unsure

whether to take the ACT or the SAT. “Generally speaking, there are not necessarily benefits of taking one over the other since they are both widely accepted,” Brown said. “However, we would always recommend that a student check with the college he/she will be attending to determine which exam they will accept for automatic admissions,” “The ACT and SAT are both acceptable exams for automatic admissions into most universities; however, the ACT is more commonly taken for students who plan to study in the Midwest,” Brown said. “I would say the SAT is more common on the East and West Coast,”

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FEATURE

There are many opportunities that our building provides for students wanting to take the ACT. “We have all of those opportunities listed on our counseling website. Our building does not provide opportunities for SAT test prep, but we have several community resources available to our students,” Brown stated.

The PSAT can qualify juniors for National Merit Scholar.

“If a student is chosen as a National Merit Scholar, the SAT has to be taken in order to move on as a National Merit Finalist,” Brown said.

The next ACT exam will be on Oct. 27. The registration deadline for this date is Sept. 28.

working with computers, “It’s good learning experience for an actual job.”

Students not in the program can still sign up for some of the classes they offer. The cyber

security class is open to students who wish to join.

To find out more about the Computer Science Academy, visit the olathe schools website.

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HORIZONS

Student plans future in military service Alex Burbidge High school is usually the time for students to decide what they want to do after their postsecondary. Some continue their schooling and go to college; others go straight into work; some, however, want to serve their country proudly and go into the military.

Samantha Ricks, senior, is heading to the United States Air Force Academy to train for the Air Force while serving the U.S. with the ultimate goal to obtain her criminal justice degree and become a detective.

“I’ve pretty much always had my mind set on the Air Force,” Ricks said. “I decided on the Air Force because I feel like it will push me more.”

Ricks will be joining the Air Force to get her criminal justice degree. While on base she will be part of the military police and guarding the base.

While many people don’t look forward to the grueling tasks demanded by basic training, Ricks said she is optimistic about both the mental and physical side of things. “I’m looking forward to growing mentally and physically and making new friends while also serving our country,” she said.

When people join a branch of the military, it’s sometimes because their family has a history of service. This is the case with Ricks, as her grandfather had previously served and her cousin is currently serving, which is

another reason why Ricks wanted to join.

To get into any branch of the military, one is required to take the ASVAB Armed Service Vocational Aptitude Battery test, or ASVAB. It measures “a young adult’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential for future success in the military,” per the United States military’s website. Ricks has not taken the test yet, though once she does and assuming she passes, she will go straight into basic training and then into the Air Force Academy just north of Colorado Springs, Col. The Air Force has the second-highest minimum score requirement at 36.

Though it may not be what one would imagine as education,

September 21, 2018 – page 13

Military Photo W’ 3.8875 x H’ 2.5917 photo by Samanthat Ricks

Samantha Ricks depicts herself in the United States Air Force. Ricks plans to train persistently in hopes to become a detective. Ricks’ family also has history of being in the military. definitely an honorable one, as serving the United States is a virtuous privilege that only a select few have the ability to do.

Joining the military may not be as widespread as it once was, but it is still one of the best things a person can do to help the United States.

page 14 – September 21, 2018

FEATURE

Football team wins first two games of year

Soccer kicks off the season

C team tied with Shawnee Mission Northwest 2-2 in their game on Sept. 11, which is their first tie of the season. Previous scores include two losses and four wins.

There are eight returning lettermen and 11 new members on the team.

The “top two goalscorers from last year” are returning to the team, which will be an advantage for the rest of the season, Will Stoskopft, coach, said.

Stoskopt also considers the amount of returning members as a strength since they have “experienced the state championship.”

Mark Elliott On Thursday, Aug. 30 football won against Lawrence High School, 26-10.

The Falcons started out rough, but rallied and came back to defeat the Lions.

They were led by wide receiver AJ Shields and quarterback Evan Foster.

AJ Shields caught 7 passes with 154 yards, and an average of 22 yards per reception.

Foster went 20 for 33 and 265 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Defensively the key players were Peyton Wiggs, Ben Lukinac, and Jai Haines.

Wiggs had 5 tackles and 6 assists, along with one sack.

Lukinac had 4 tackles and 1 assist.

Haines was key in the secondary helping out the defense with two interceptions.

These players with the rest of the Falcon defense held Lawrence to 10 points the whole game.

JV also played Lawrence a couple days after varsity at South and capped off a victory with a final score of 28-6. Freshmen team played at Lawrence and blew them out with a victory of 32-0.

On Friday, September 7th the Falcons played the Ravens, and blew them out 35-7. The key players on offense were Andrew Nehrbass, AJ Shields, and Jai Haines. Nehrbrass had 24 rushes on121 yards with an average of 5.04. Shields had 5 receptions on 79 yards and an average of 15.80 at wide receiver. Haines had 2 receptions on 45 yards and averaged big yards of 22.50.

Defensively the Falcons yet again, were on fire only allowing 7 points. The key players were Ben Lukinac, Jai Haines, Tony Lunson, Nathan Larsen, and Cannon Gottschalk. Lukinac had 3 tackles, one being for a loss on 1 assist. Haines had 4 tackles and 1 assist. Lunson had 7 tackles 6 assists. Larsen had 4 tackles with 3 yards loss and 4 assists.

Gottschalk had 2 tackles 1 assist and 2 yards loss.

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photo by Maddie Black

The football team takes the offense against Lawrence High School in the season opener on Thursday, Aug. 30. The team won the game against the Chesty Lions 26-10. AJ Shields, senior, tallied 154 yards on seven receptions. Evan Foster, senior, completed 20 of his 33 passes, tallied 265 passing yards and made three touchdown passes.

As the Falcons improve to 2-0, what will come from the Falcons when they face off against Shawnee Mission North West.

On Friday September 14th Olathe South lost a close game to Shawnee Mission North West. They lost 27-21 and the officiating wasn’t exactly on South’s side. They key players on offense were Reed Smith, Andrew Nehrbass, Roman Mahoney, AJ Shields, and Jai Haines. Smith was 16 for 39 with 2 picks, 251 yards, and 1 touchdown.

Nehrbass had 22 rushes with 123 yards and an average of 5.59 yards per carry. Mahoney had 3 receptions on 44 yards. Shields had 11 receptions with 177 yards and an average of 16.09 yards per catch. Haines had 3 receptions on 61 yards with an average of 20.33 yards per reception.

That wraps up the Falcons first 3 games of the season with a solid 2-1 start.

Cross Country starts off with three meets so far Emily Gray Cross country has started off this year with about 40 kids.

There have been three meets so far, with five weeks left to go.

So far the meets have been at Johnson Country Community College, ODAC, and Baldwin Golf Course.

The distance run at every meet ranges from two miles to three point one miles.

Alex Bartlett, sophomore said, “It’s hard at first, but it feels good afterwards to know that you are doing something good for your body.”

“It does make school more

challenging bacuse practice usually goes until 5:30-5:45 so you have less time to do homework, but as long as you are keeping track of your time and not procrastinating you can get all of your homework and studying done,” says Bartlett The upcoming meets will be on Sept. 22 at Ottawa High School.

Sept. 29 at Raymore-Peculiar High School.

Oct. 6 at Haskell Indian Nations University.

All meets after that will be Varsity, ending with the Varsity state meet on Oct. 27 at Rim Rock Farm.

Volleyball season starts off season with 6-3 start Aly Gad Sophomore Volleyball team has a record of 6-3.

Their first game was against Olathe East on Sept 29, and they won.

Giselle Jackson, sophomore, said she’s “looking forward to bonding with my teammates and improving as a player.”

Laynie Eaton, sophomore, said, “I look forward to getting better as a player, growing together as a team and playing as a family.”

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SPORTS

NFL starts season: some surprise, others disappoint Mark Elliott

With the regular season starting up, the Eyrie will be going through how all of the teams did in week one, and what to expect from teams in week two, along with the best performance players.

The scores from week one are: Eagles edge over the Falcons 18-12.

The Browns and Steelers tie at 21 with it being the Cleveland Browns’ best start since 2004.

Bengals defeat the Colts 34-23.

The Vikings beat the 49ers 2416.

The Patriots barely cap off the Texans 27-20.

The Buccaneers beat the Saints in a high scoring game 48-40.

The Jaguars barely beat the Giants 20-15.

The Ravens blow out the Bills 47-3.

The Chiefs upset the Chargers, winning 38-28.

The Broncos barely edge over Seahawks 27-24.

The Panthers beat the Cowboys in a low scoring game 16-8.

The Packers make an amazing comeback after Aaron Rodgers, quarterback, returned the game.

They beat the Bears 24-23.

The Cardinals get blown out

by Washington 24-6.

The Jets blow out the Lions 48-7, and in the last game of week one, the Rams defeat the Raiders 33-13.

The Eyrie sorted the 32 NFL teams into power rankings fo week one.

The power rankings, starting with number one, are as goes: Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas

City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Redskins, Houston Texans, Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, Tennessee Titans, Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, New York jets, Detroit Lions, Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, and finally wrapping up the list are the Buffalo Bills.

The top players after week one are: Drew Brees, quarterback; Todd Gurley, running back; Alvin Kamara, running back; Melvin Gordon, running back, Saquon Barkley, running back; Randall Cobb, wide receiver; Tyreek Hill, wide receiver; Justin Tucker, kicker and the Baltimore Ravens defense.

As for week two, it is predicted that the Eagles, Vikings and Rams to be the top teams next week. The Eyrie expects the Saints, Falcons, and Texans to bounce back with a win. The Cardinals will most likely lose again this season, this time to the Rams.

The Eyrie predicts that the Patriots, Eagles, Chiefs, Buccaneers and the Packers will have big seasons this year, taking into account their rosters and their performances in the preseason and the regular season.

Anyways, that is it for week one scores, best teams, worst teams, most outstanding players in week one and predictions for week two.

The Eyrie will also be recapping the Chiefs’ games on their webpage, eyrieonline.org.

September 21, 2018 – page 15

NFL/MLB photo W: 5.925 H: 3.6998

photo courtesy of AP Images

Patrick Mahomes, rookie quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, catches a snap from center in the September 16th game against the Pittsburg Steelers. Mahomes threw for six touched downs in the Chief’s 42-37 win against the Steelers, the most ever by a single player in his first two games of a regular season.

Mahomes’ six touchdowns tied a franchise record with Len Dawson for most in a single game.

Sports affect mental health Tristan Allen The start of the school year also signals the start of football season. It can also mean more stress for students initially as they are accustomed to a school-less summer schedule.

Sports like football can add on to that stress, especially for older students who are taking on more of a leadership role within their teams.

Evan Foster, senior quarterback, felt nervous before he started in the season opener against Lawrence High School.

Foster says that he feels pressure to succeed, but he “work[s] hard” to ensure that he does in order to cope with that pressure.

After games, Foster feels relieved if he won. If he loses, he feels tired and disappointed about the loss.

Another way sports can add stress to athletes, specifically high school athletes, is the concern about injuries, which can impact,

sometimes even end, their future playing careers.

Foster is not worried about being injured, however.

“If it happens, it happens,” Foster said on the matter.

There is no question, however, that injuries, especially those from playing football, can impact mental health. A study from 2017 looked at 202 deceased football players, and found that 87 percent of the players had developed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a disease causes a buildup of tau proteins, which can cause memory loss and impaired judgement, among other mental health issues.

The majority of the players studied played in the NFL, with some Canadian, college and high school players. The study looked at players from every position.

Among the 14 high school players studied, only three players, or 21 percent of players, had developed CTE. In college, how-

ever, 48 of the 53 players studied, nearly 91 percent, had developed CTE, which suggests that higher levels of play have increased risk of CTE. Ann McKee, director of Boston University’s CTE center, led the study. She said there is a “tremendous selection bias” with the study because the samples were donated by families who thought that their loved ones showed signs of having CTE. Other studies have found that CTE is primarily found in people who are repeatedly hit in the head.

As Foster said before, he is not concerned about injury.

Another thing high school athletes can worry about is their future playing career. Not all athletes make it into college.

Foster however is not concerned with scholarships now, as he has received an offer from the Colorado School of Mines, located in Golden, near Denver.

the EYRIE

MY TURN

September 21, 2018

Disregarding legitimacy of climate change raises issues Khadija Ceesay The issue of climate change has always been up for debate; is it real and if it is, what is the evidence and how can we prevent it from spreading so rapidly?

Scientifically, climate change is a concrete issue that is evolving very quickly with each passing day.

The impact of rapidly developing human activity has been spiraling since the mid 20th century and has only been increasing.

According to NASA, the use of toxic carbon dioxide on the atmosphere has raised Earth’s surface temperature 1.62 degrees Fahrenheit.

This increase may not sound

like much in general, but from a scientific standpoint, this could become potentially alarming.

Naturally, the ocean has absorbed most of the heat becuase it intakes one third of the carbon dioxide released into the air, approximately 22 million tons a day. More than 90% of the “warming” since the 19th century has been occurring in the oceans.

The Environmental Defense Fund has evidence of “marine heat waves” which has potential to endanger certain ecosystems.

As a result of rising heat levels, many coral reefs such as the Great Barrier Reef of Australia are deteriorating due to these warm temperatures because coral

reefs are especially sensitive to increasing temperature.

One of the causes of the warming on the sea is coral bleaching which results in the shrinking and rotting of the reefs and leaves many species and ecosystems vulnerable to predators.

In response to warmer oceanic temperatures, fish migration effects fisheries located around the world.

There are also reports of “drowning wetlands,” which happens as a consequence of sea levels rising at a faster rate than the earth can recycle water, causing mass areas to flood.

This effects sea grass and coral nearby since they can

“

only photosynthesize in shallow water,

Another great effect of global warming is the extreme weather events that have been escalating as years pass. 2016 was recorded as the warmest year on record and a lot of the United States has experienced more freezing temperatures during the winter.

The issue of hurricane formations has become more of an issue.

According to livescience. com, “current computer models of the atmosphere indicate that hurricanes are more likely to become less frequent on a global basis, though the hurricanes that do form may be more intense”

because hurricanes gather their energy from the temperature change between tropical oceans and cooler atmospheres.

There is also evidence of the Greenland and Antartic ice sheets decreasing in mass and has tripled the amount of loss since the last decade.

Glaciers around the world are retreating and it has been shown that the amount of annual spring snow cover in the Northern Hemisphere has decreased over the span of the last five decades because of the record high temperature events in the U.S. Climate change can easily spiral out of control, but we don’t have to let it become such

“I didn’t expect to like it. I thought it would be too spicy, but it was really good.”

—Ashlee Troutt, sophomore It tastes like refried beans with rice, but better.”

—Hailey Horton, sophomore “It’s really fun to look at.”

—Amanda Turvey, junior