The Epitaph Volume 60, Issue 3, 2022-23

The Epitaph

‘It is like war’: Protests against injustice in Iran impact families

By Joss Broward

Following the death of a 22-year-old Iranian woman named Mahsa Amini, widespread protests erupted across Iran. Human rights violations and police violence toward protestors and women have deeply affected both Iranian citizens and students at HHS, senior Lena Masoumi said.

Iran’s security forces issued a statement claiming Amini, arrested for violating Iran’s hijab law, died due to underlying disease soon after her detention. However, her death has sparked suspicion, with Amini’s family stating she was beaten to death by police, according to NBC.

Across Iran, protestors have demanded an end to the often arbitrarily-enforced laws placed on women restricting clothing, travel and relationships. The nationwide outrage has been met with excessive force by the Iranian government, who acknowledged that over 300 protestors have been killed and 18,000 arrested, according to NPR.

“Everyone is just so mad at how voiceless they are and how irrelevant their presence feels because they have their whole life dictated for them from birth,” Masoumi said. “People are finally starting to stand up to the government about it, and now they are losing their lives over it.”

Masoumi, who moved to the United States from Iran with her family in 2016, said she would have been protesting if she still lived there.

I would have been out on the streets in the first line of people,” Masoumi said. “I’d probably either be dead or in police custody.”

Like Masoumi, senior Roxy Faridjoo said she is deeply affected by ongoing protests due to familial connections.

“This hits really close to home,” Faridjoo said. “My grandparents are still living there, and I couldn’t talk to them for two weeks. I had no reason to think they would be in danger, but I don’t know. The fact that I have my grandparents there — it’s hard to hear about.”

Faridjoo also said the uproar in Iran has affected her relationships with her family, as well as their mood.

“My parents don’t really like talking about it with me,” Faridjoo said. “I have been trying to not think about it too much, and I am sure they are terrified themselves. [My grandparents] talk about it even less to me. They are all trying to hide me from it.”

Masoumi has been in close contact with family living in Iran, including her aunt, Mary Mohammadi. She requested that her name be changed for this article due to fear of retaliation from the Iranian government.

“It is like war,” Mohammadi said. “Every day you see more people getting killed. More teenagers and children. It is hard to watch.”

horns in support of the protests or peacefully engaging, according to CBS News.

“Going outside is especially scary when it is busy and there are protests going on because I am constantly thinking, ‘What if that were to happen to me?’” Mohammadi said.

On Nov. 5, 227 out of 290 Iranian lawmakers issued a statement asking for harsh punishments to be handed out to the thousands of arrested protestors. Since then, multiple protestors have been sentenced to death, according to The New York Times.

testors and civilians, like Masoumi’s childhood friend and Mahsa Amini, by raising awareness on social media.

“The only thing other people can really do is actively try to make sure the world knows what is going on,” Mohammadi said. “That way, it’s not just kept in the dark, where the government can do as they please because no one is watching.

“It is like war. Every day you see more people getting killed. More teenagers and children. It is hard to watch.”

Masoumi said she knows one of the arrested protestors, a close childhood friend.

“She was posting a lot at the start of the protests, and she and her friends were graffitiing walls, writing on floors, taking their hijabs off and braiding their hair together,” Masoumi said. “Then she just went quiet and shortly after her Instagram got deleted.”

Support from other countries is lacking, Mohammadi said, particularly countries who benefit from Iran’s struggles.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Mohammadi said. “They definitely could do a lot more to help and potentially be the reason things get better.”

Mary Mohammadi

Like Mohammadi, Masoumi said she thinks it is essential to raise awareness about the issue on social media, emphasizing that the life of her friend could depend on action taken by the international community.

Although Masoumi, Faridjoo and Mohammadi have different connections to Iran, they all emphasized their love for the country and its people.

“I just want people to know the real Iran and that the people are good,” Mohammadi said. “It is a beautiful country. It’s just that the government is so corrupt. But, I want people to know that we are not the killers everyone thinks we are.”

While it may be challenging to envision a future different from the ongoing violence being experienced by those in Iran, Mohammadi said she can.

A large number of those killed by Iranian police have been shot by accident. Other Iranians were shot for honking their

Respiratory viruses on the rise

Flu, RSV, COVID-19 cause increase in absences

By Parth Dhaulakhandi and Nathan Gu

“My dad and I talked about it, and Pandemic precautions, such as masking and social distancing, have grown more relaxed at HHS and around the Bay Area

since last year. As a result, flu and other respiratory virus cases have increased during the fall, adding to the already widespread COVID-19 cases throughout the community, according to the Santa Clara County Public Health Department.

In November of 2021, 0.57% of Santa Clara County emergency department visits resulted from influenza-like illnesses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which

Additionally, Mohammadi and Masoumi said those living outside of Iran can help combat the injustice faced by pro -

is a common virus causing cold-like symptoms. That percentage has jumped to 2.79% this year, according to Santa Clara County health experts, triggering concerns among health experts.

“This is the first year where we’re not only facing COVID, but also increased influenza activity and unusually high levels of RSV,” Dr. Sarah Rudhman, assistant health officer of the Santa Clara County Public

“All these people sacrificing their lives believe that it is for change, and I do too,” Mohammadi said. “Maybe not soon, but it will happen. It will happen.”

Health Department said in a press conference.

Physics teacher Daniel Nunez said he recently contracted COVID-19. Nunez said that the symptoms he experienced were similar to the ones he associated with the flu, preventing him from coming to school for six days.

Homestead High School 21370 Homestead Rd, Cupertino, CA 95014 · Volume 60 · Issue 3 · December 16, 2022

New testing center enables schedule flexibility

By Seoyoung Hwang and Emma Yu

With the introduction of a new testing center, teachers and other staff members hope to simplify the test makeup process by providing an all0tted time and space for students to complete assessments after school. The center, led by

French teacher Madeleine Stanwood and English teacher Kirk Hinton, runs every Wednesday from 3:15 to 5:00 p.m. after school in room L113.

“Sometimes when you have a lot of tests or things to make up, it can eat into your tutorial time, especially if you’ve been absent,” Stanwood said. “By having a designated space just for testing, it’ll free up tutorials for teachers and students.”

The idea initially stemmed from assistant principal Susan Rocha’s time at Lynbrook High School, where they ran a successful testing center.

Thus far, the center has been successful, Stanwood said, with around 10-12 students attending each week.

After hearing about the center through an email, history teacher Christy Heaton decided to send her students there to increase time efficiency, she said.

News in a minute

By Erin Loh

Local - Board of Registered Nursing approves bill to increase nurse practitioner freedom

The California Board of Registered Nursing voted in approval of Assembly Bill 890 to increase nurse practitioner freedom on Nov. 14. The bill will allow nurse practitioners, who have more training than registered nurses, to practice without physician supervision, according to the California Board of Registered Nursing. In addition to increasing nurse practitioner independence, the bill will mitigate healthcare worker shortages and provide cost-effective healthcare.

Originally signed by Gov. Gavin

“Not all kids have the same holes in their schedule as I do,” Heaton said. “If the test is long, it’s difficult to be able to give it time without staying for hours after school.”

Heaton said she finds the testing center helpful and hopes it will eventually be open more than once a week, as some of her students have conflicting schedules with the testing center since it is held only on Wednesdays.

“There might be athletes that have problems with it, but it’s not like the center’s the only space where you can make things up,” Heaton said. “But it definitely worked out for some people’s schedules and made it easier.”

Senior Shriya Wagholikar, a recent test-taker at the center, said she had a successful experience making up an AP statistics test.

“I think the center’s a good idea because a lot of people don’t know how to schedule [make-up] tests with teachers,” Wagholikar said. “I like that there’s a designated place where Mr. Prakash was able to effectively send me instead of forcing me to stay back after school.”

In the event that students have

questions about material on tests, however, Stanwood said students will have to make judgment calls similar to how they would when taking a test administered by a substitute teacher.

As a result, Wagholikar said she has reservations about teacher support at the testing center.

“That made me a little bit nervous because if I had questions, I

didn’t know how much support I could get from Ms. Stanwood,” Wagholikar said. “When I walked in, I was thinking that if I was in calculus and had to do a midterm after school, I would die. It was manageable for me because of the test I had, but for any test where you need teacher support, and they’re not there, it’s a little bit nerve wracking.”

Newsom in 2020, AB 890 will need to be reviewed by the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency and the Office of Administrative Law for approval before taking effect in January 2023.

National - Orion spacecraft travels farther from Earth than any other human-rated spacecraft in history

Orion, a NASA spacecraft designed to take humans farther into space than ever before, exceeded 248,655 statute miles from Earth on Nov. 26, breaking the record set by Apollo 13. The uncrewed rocket reached 270,000 miles from Earth

before turning back on Nov. 28, and landed off California’s coast on Dec. 11.

Orion’s current mission, Artemis I, is the first of an increasingly complex series of space missions designed to take humans to the moon and Mars.

The spacecraft is equipped with innovative new technology, such as emergency abort features and faster thrusters.

International - China initiates COVID-19 lockdown

In response to a surge in COVID-19 since late October, with case counts reaching over 25,000 daily, Chinese government officials

ordered a strict lockdown protocol across the country, according to The New York Times. Many businesses and schools have been shut down, and public transit systems require passengers to provide a negative test.

However, strict prevention is taking a toll on the nation, according to The New York Times.

As the only major country still taking drastic measures to combat the spread of the virus, China still has not regained its pre-pandemic economic power.

Additionally, lockdown protocols are leaving much of the country unexposed to the virus, leading to weak immunity levels.

Addition of gender-neutral bathroom fosters inclusivity

New restroom creates safe space

By Keshav Kumar and Lindsey Steel

After months of deliberation, a new gender-neutral bathroom was added to the lower A building for non-binary and transgender students, principal Greg Giglio said.

Support has grown for the new gender-neutral bathroom as students have become more vocal about their needs, Giglio said.

“When I got here 10 years ago, the use of gender-neutral bathrooms was more of a private conversation,” Giglio said. “We had a handful of kids that were transitioning, and they would come in and use the bathroom in the office. But now, life has changed

and there are students on campus that are gender fluid, non-binary or questioning their identities, who want a space to use.”

Senior Daphne Garcia said gender-neutral bathrooms are essential in affirming individuals’ identities and ensuring all students can feel safe at school. The construction of a new bathroom, Garcia said, was long awaited.

“Not everyone wants to use the boys or girls bathrooms,” Garcia said. “It’s important to accommodate everyone. I am okay with using the other bathrooms, but I usually prefer using the gender-neutral bathrooms. It was just like, ‘finally.’”

Prior to the addition of the new restroom, Garcia said only having one gender neutral-bathroom on campus was hugely inconvenient, as it was frequently occupied.

Pride club officer, sophomore Robin Ruan said they began advocating for the addition of a gender-neutral bathroom last year by starting a petition. Ruan’s efforts later developed into meetings between Pride club officers, transgender and non-binary students and Giglio.

During these meetings, Ruan said many factors were taken into account by both parties when discussing the implementation of the new restroom.

“We had to come up with different ideas for what the bathroom would look like,” Ruan said. “What

if people don’t want multiple stalls, and what if they feel uncomfortable with it? Where can we put the restroom so everyone can reach it?”

Ultimately, Giglio said the decision to construct the bathroom in the A building was made unintentionally.

“It was a bit of a mistake, in that there used to be a female staff bathroom in the downstairs A building,” Giglio said. “It was going to be made into a student bathroom, so that meant there were three female bathrooms in that building. We don’t need that many and there’s always only been one male bathroom [in the A building] so we took that away and made one gender-neutral. It turned out

to be a happy accident, and it worked its way out.”

While the addition of a new gender-neutral bathroom is a step in the right direction, Ruan said changes are still necessary to cultivate a more inclusive and comfortable environment.

“Some of the gender-neutral restrooms don’t have pad machines,” Ruan said. “Students on their period might have to go to the girls restroom or the office and ask for pads, which can be embarrassing. Beyond the physical aspects, there’s still a general attitude toward LGBTQ+ people, like when staff misgender people or make microaggressive comments. Overall, I think more education and support for students is important.”

Students can now make up tests after school

Studentsmakeuptestsafterschool,freeinguptheirtutorialtime.

StanwoodandHintonleadthetestingcenter

New facilities manager addresses campus needs

Elder Fagundes provides comfortable learning environment

By Hope Saena

Following the departure of former facilities manager Toby Mockler, FUHSD director of facilities Roger Silveira said he knew the perfect man to take up the position: Elder Fagundes.

Silveira introduced himself in a

Zoom interview as the former director of facilities at the East Side Union High School District, where Fagundes was the lead technician at the time.

Given his previous experience with Fangundes, Silveira said he recruited him because Fagundes seemed intrigued by difficulty.

“Homestead is heated by either hot or cold water. It’s very different from other schools and is a complex system,” Silveira said. “Fagundes has a good grasp on complexity. He’s dedicated, hard working and I thought he’d be a good fit for that campus because of the challenge.”

After dedicating 18 years to the role of facilities manager at ESUHSD, Fagundes said he was interested in opening a new chapter in his career. Fagundes began in October and said his transition to the campus has been smooth with the support of his coworkers.

“One of the biggest challenges has been remembering faces and names and recognizing teachers,” Fagundes said. “But Homestead has been very welcoming and my admin team and my immediate supervisor have been very supportive in helping me to transition.”

As facilities manager, Fagundes leads a team of custodians, gardeners and a technician to main-

Board of Trustees discusses goals

Members hope to augment student body support

By Patrick Hao and Brian Ling

After elections for the FUHSD Board of Trustees concluded on Nov. 8, new board members Rosa Kim, Naomi Nakano-Matsumoto and Stanley Kou said they will start implementing plans to help improve student learning and well-being when their next terms begin in early 2023.

Current vice president Rosa Kim, who will fill the role of board president in the upcoming term, said one of her main focuses is to encourage students to voice their feedback on district policies.

“I think administrators and board members need to know what the needs of our students are,” Kim said, “There should be more connection between administrators and students.”

Kim also said she hopes to increase social-emotional support

for students to improve mental health.

“Social-emotional wellness and knowing how to handle mental stress is a critical part of our high school curriculum,” Kim said, “I’m really supportive of the emphasis on the social emotional learning curriculum for our students and teachers.”

On top of providing mental health resources, Kim said she also wants to provide students additional opportunities for input regarding the social-emotional learning curriculum.

“There should be more of a platform to get students’ input,” Kim said, “I really like [how] some of our students are working on advisory lessons, so we need to encourage more student leadership in that curriculum.”

Like Kim, current Board president Nakano-Matsumoto said she hopes to provide resources to improve students’ mental health, as she believes mental health is just as important as physical health. Additionally, Matsumoto said poor mental health can impair learning abilities.

“Right now, we have a lot of resources that have been put into social-emotional health and wellbeing, so I’d like to be able to see that continue,” Matsumoto said.

Matsumoto also hopes to improve equity on campus. To achieve this, Matsumoto said she hopes to expand resources for marginalized students, and restructure classes in a way that ensures everyone can learn successfully.

“As a school board member, my focus is making sure that all of our students — whether they are high performing, LGBTQ+, students of color or disabled — get their needs met,” Matsumoto said.

Stanley Kou, a first-term board member, said his priorities include helping students reach their full academic potential, while also supporting each individual in their post-high school plans.

“Some students want to pursue higher education. Some of the students will be looking for some early opportunities to go to a job market,” Kou said. “We need to take care of all students according to their own needs.”

Additionally, Kou said he hopes to improve student safety and implement more efficient transportation solutions to and from school.

“Many of our students have to commute long [routes] to get to the school from the northern part of Sunnyvale,” Kou said. “We need to find a solution for helping those students get to school on time and get back home safely.”

Furthermore, Kou said he wants to serve the student body by increasing not only their academic success, but their social success, too.

“We want to have [multifaceted] students. This means that they have personality, they’re eager to achieve their goals and [they know that] academic success is not everything,” Kou said. “We need to educate our students to be honest, good citizens.”

tain the campus, he said.

“I coordinate all school events that take place on campus in regards to facility needs,” Fagundes said. “Whether it’s sport activities or setups, everything that falls under the umbrella of facilities is my responsibility. There is a huge learning curve because I’ve been here for a short time but I’m getting familiar with the campus and where everything is.”

In contrast to his previous experience of managing multiple sites simultaneously, Fagundes now works in a central location, granting him better focus on addressing the school’s necessities, he said.

“I’m looking forward to facilitating the campus needs such as refreshing some areas in regards to paint,” Fagundes said. “I met with green ops [club] and we’re planning to do a garden bed so I’m trying to secure funding to see if we can make it happen.”

While Fagundes has set many goals for the upcoming year, he said his priority is to ensure students are provided with a comfortable learning environment.

“Creating a learning space of

Rise in flu

Continued from page 1

comfort for the students will allow them to achieve [success] at the highest rate possible,” Fagundes said. “I want to make sure the campus feels safe and that students are eager to come here.”

Although Fagundes started his position later into the school year, principal Greg Giglio said he is positive Fagundes will excel in his position.

“New staff like Mr. Fagundes bring different strengths and experiences to the school,” Giglio said. “He has a lot to offer and I’m excited to see what he does in this new position.”

Similarly, Silveira said he believes Fagundes brings immense value to the campus. His strong passion for facilities, maintenance and building relationships within the community makes him an ideal facilities manager.

“He’s already mentioned sustainability projects so I think it demonstrates how much he cares about Homestead already,” Silveira said. “I hope [HHS] enjoys working with Fagundes. He is energetic and passionate about making positive changes.”

Nunez said he has observed an increase in absences among his students during flu season, with around one or two students missing each class.

In hopes of preventing further spread of illness within his classroom and around campus in general, Nunez said he urges everyone to take precautions, such as going outside to blow their nose and not coming to school if they are sick.

Similar to Nunez’s recent experiences in the classroom, physics teacher Kathleen Shreve has also observed more student absences this year.

“People being careful stops the spread faster, but I think we are seeing an uptick because the mask mandates are gone,” Shreve said.

Due to the increase in absences, Shreve said she implemented a hybrid learning model similar to the configuration she used during the pandemic.

“We have online simulations that we can utilize.” Shreve said. “It works out for the kids who are absent to try to keep up as much as they can.”

Shreve said that before the pandemic, she used to see people coming to school despite being ill because they did not want to fall behind.

“I think now there is a more strict line of, ‘If you don’t feel well then stay home,’” Shreve said. “I’m hoping teachers would be more understanding [of absences].”

Dr. Vidya Mony, a pediatric infectious disease specialist from Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, recommends everyone follow the county’s advice for preventing illness.

“[While the current] strain of influenza is not stronger than before, it is surging right now,” Mony said in the same press conference as Rudhman. “That’s why it’s really important to ensure that we continue to promote vaccination because we know that it works and it helps prevent hospitalization, specifically in influenza and COVID.”

Stanford Healthcare pediatrician Eva Yvonne Montgomery-McGuire said in an email she and her colleagues have also noticed the upsurge in flu in their medical offices.

Montgomery-McGuire said respiratory illnesses most severely impact infants, seniors and immunocompromised individuals.

To combat these dangers, Montgomery-McGuire said it is important to reinstate safety protocols and take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of viruses.

“We are reminding and educating our patients about precautions – washing hands, staying home when sick and wearing a mask indoors and in crowded places,” Montgomery-McGuire said. “We have been very successful with getting patients to take the flu vaccine in the past, and fortunately they have continued this year.”

Manyclassesareseeingahighernumberofabsencesasaresultofsickness.(PhotobyNathanGu)

Naomi Nakano-Matsumoto

Rosa Kim

Stanley Kou

Linda Price

Andrew Arness

The Epitaph

Editors-in-Chief

Madhavi Karthik

Macy Li

Managing Editor

Karuna Chandran

Production Manager

Hope Saena

Senior News Editor Erin Loh

Junior News Editor

Nicole Kim

Senior Opinion Editors

Keshav Kumar

Anushruti Nagarajan Lindsey Steel

Senior Lifestyles Editor Lia Klebanov

Junior Lifestyles Editors

Saira Ahmed Brevin Reed

Senior A&C Editor Amber Birrell

Junior A&C Editor

Rajiv Venkatesh

Senior Sports Editor Niyatee Jain

Junior Sports Editor Harshitha Vijayakumar

Senior Design Editors

Seoyoung Hwang Christine Kim

Junior Design Editor Mackie Vu

Senior Multimedia Editor Zeinab Rakhshandehroo

Senior Social Media Editor

Saira Ahmed

Junior Social Media Editor Annabelle Yip

Photo/Illustration Editor

Joss Broward

Web Manager

Seoyoung Hwang

Copy Editors

Joss Broward Rajiv Venkatesh

Reporters

Ella Chan

Parth Dhaulakhandi

Manya Girivasan

Nathan Gu

Patrick Hao

Nicole Pimenta Innecco

David Lin

Brian Ling

Anderson Picone

Gabriela Salazar Helen Tam

Evelyn Wang

Faith Watters

Emma Yu Veronica Zhao

Adviser

Natalie Owsley

Mission Statement

The Epitaph is a non-profit publication at Homestead High School, 21370 Homestead Rd., Cupertino, CA 95014.

The Epitaph is a forum for student expression and not subject to prior review, in accordance to Education Code 48907. The staff is comprised of HHS Journalism students. Views expressed do not necessarily represent views of the school, its staff or the district. Editorials are opinions of the editorial board.

The Epitaph welcomes letters to the editor but reserves the right to edit submissions. Letters should be limited to 300 words. Include contact information. Unsigned letters cannot be published, but names will be withheld upon request. Send via homestead.epitaph@ gmail.com, or drop letters in the newsroom or the office mailbox.

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Staff Editorial

Direct intervention is necessary to combat educational disparities

All students should be given the tools they need to succeed.

As a school known for its excellence in STEM fields, HHS must address the widespread underperformance of upperclassmen in Algebra 2. To combat this disparity, teachers and administration must provide students with more effective academic resources and personalized support.

Prior to the pandemic, 5% of underclassmen and 11% of upperclassmen had failing grades in Algebra 2, according to data from progress report 2 in 2019.

In comparison, this year, 35% of juniors and seniors had failing grades at the end of the second grading period, compared to just 7% of underclassmen.

Passing Algebra 2 is a requirement for applying to UC and CSU colleges, guidance counselor Wilma Wu said. As a result, a significant portion of upperclassmen are currently failing to meet the qualifications for these universities.

The fact that over a third of the juniors and seniors taking this class are at risk of missing out on a higher quality educa-

ALGEBRA 2 FAILING RATES

Upperclassmen

Underclassmen

School Year

Valedictorian titles

rendered

By Joss Broward

meaningless

Do we really have a valedictorian if we have over 60? Currently, the graduating class of 2023 is on track to have 64 valedictorians, a pool of students making up over 10% of all seniors, according to the HHS school report. While maintaining a 4.0 GPA is undoubtedly impressive, this title holds little value at a school where the vast majority of students earn at least a 3.5 GPA.

Although the unweighted GPA of valedictorians is 4.0, the weighted average varies depending on the rigor of each student’s coursework. What is truly questionable is that a number of students without an unweighted 4.0 likely have a higher weighted GPA than some of the valedictorians. Without accounting for the difficulty of classes, an award for one’s academic achievements is simply unfair.

To bring purpose to the title of valedictorian, administration could take other factors into account, such as students’ weighted GPA or community involvement, when selecting the valedictorian.

One holistic solution that brings meaning to the title would be to allow all students who meet the threshold of a 4.0 GPA to apply for this award based on their community contributions and dedication to improving society.

This removes some of the rigid emphasis on grades, and instead, prioritizes making a positive dif-

ference. Not only would this result in only one student receiving the title of valedictorian, it would also reward students for their character, rather than their course load.

Alternatively, the administration could calculate students’ weighted GPA to choose one valedictorian. This method would most directly align with the predominant definition of valedictorian, one that ensures students are recognized for their efforts and their ability to succeed in more challenging courses.

However, the best solution to this issue would be eliminating the title altogether. Rather than keep a confusing and unfair award, the administration should remove the valedictorian label, especially given that it is traditionally awarded in schools which rank students and utilize a weighted GPA.

Many students already place an excessive amount of pressure on themselves to achieve perfect grades, and keeping the valedictorian title only adds to that stress by encouraging students to obsessively chase after the award. It is commendable that HHS has taken strides to cultivate a more positive environment by removing over-competitive ranking systems, but why does a relic of an antiquated practice remain?

tion requires immediate attention.

There are several resources available to support students, but HHS must ensure these resources are more accessible and effective. For example, free after-school tutoring is provided, but students who have other time commitments, such as jobs — which are more common for upperclassmen — or extracurriculars, cannot attend.

One solution to this problem is to expand the student tutoring program to Algebra 2 classes, as it currently only is used for Algebra 1 and geometry. Providing tutors in Algebra 2 allows students to ask questions and receive help from more than just their teachers. It also relieves some of the stress teachers face when having to work one-on-one with students.

Additionally, upperclassmen in Algebra 2 have stated tests are worth 75% of the overall grade in the class. Given the considerable importance of exams, students’ final grades are heavily dependent upon how well they understand mathematical concepts and whether they can apply them during a few high-pressure situations.

To combat this issue, Algebra 2 teachers should consider allowing students to do test cor-

rections up to a passing grade. This ensures students achieve mastery of the skills required to move on to the next unit, while also providing them with support to pass the class and fulfill college requirements.

To solve the issue of widespread underperformance, HHS has an obligation to provide students with the help they need to succeed.

HHS must make a real commitment to helping Algebra 2 students who are struggling by improving and expanding the resources offered to them. If we want every student to have the education they need for a fulfilling life, we must ensure the necessary steps forward are taken.

Just wear a mask

the act of showing up to school sick put others at risk, but doing so without a mask only multiplies the rate of transmission.

By Mackie Vu

With COVID-19 precaution measures winding down, a return to pre-pandemic life seems to be within reach. Although the pandemic is becoming a less prevalent issue in our everyday lives, we must remain cautious as the cold and flu season begins.

As illnesses spread across campus, it is essential that students wear masks, especially given the infectious nature of both COVID-19 and other seasonal illnesses. COVID-19 and the common cold are caused by viruses that spread in similar ways and have the same symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Wearing a mask will decrease this rampant spread of viruses as we enter the peak of flu season.

Although I did not get sick, a friend of mine did and was forced to miss the highly anticipated trip. In situations like these, the carelessness of others had harmful impacts, which could have been easily minimized if students simply chose to wear a mask.

While some may argue wearing a mask is a choice that should be left up to individuals, it is vital that everyone protect their own health and their communities.

These necessary protections against illnesses do not work when only a fraction of the population takes precautions. In fact, there is a moderate risk of spreading COVID-19 when only one person is masked, but that risk decreases substantially when both are masked, according to the CDC.

Havingtoomanyvaledictoriansisillogical and reduces students to numbers. (IllustrationbyJossBroward)

Instead of using an outdated label to categorize students by their academic achievements, we must learn to move past perfection and into a better future where we embrace the process of growth.

As a member of the marching band, I recently attended a trip to Southern California for the final competitions of the season. In the weeks leading up to the trip, I was terrified of getting sick, and that fear only worsened when I saw the limited precautions my peers were taking.

Prior to the trip, I noticed some of my classmates coughing, sneezing and sniffling without a mask. Not only does

crease

During a time when sicknesses are spreading rapidly, those who are healthy need to be cautious, and those who are sick need to avoid infecting others.

With the lingering effects of the pandemic and the spread of disease across campus, students must make an effort to protect their own health and that of their peers.

To ensure the safety of our community, it is crucial that those who are sick stay home, or at the very least, wear a mask.

Upperclassmen are failing Algebra 2. (IllustrationbyAnushrutiNagarajan)

Mask up to keep our community safe

Students should wear masks to de-

the transmission of illnesses.

(Illustration byMackie Vu)

Failing rates among upperclassmen have increased drastically in the last two years.(GraphbyLindseySteel)

Fighting for gender equality

By Anushruti Nagarajan

COLUMN When my grandmother first moved from her quiet hometown Mysore to Mumbai, India’s second-most populous city, she was foreign to the culture of urban India. Since my grandmother grew up in a region where schools did not teach English, she struggled to grasp the language.

When she took her final exams, she passed all her classes with flying colors — all except English.

My grandmother eventually graduated, and years later, she became an English and social studies teacher. One day, ironically,

she was hired by her old school to teach English, replacing the very same teacher who refused to pass her all those years ago.

My mother, an immigrant herself, was the first in her family to study in the U.S. She single-handedly paid for her education and worked her way up to success in Silicon Valley. Despite the struggles she faced along the way, she has remained strong and persevering in the face of adversity.

I am fortunate to have come from a line of brave and independent women who have challenged the status quo. These women have left lasting impacts on their com-

munities, and they have overcome the hardships in their lives. However, many women are not as lucky as my paati and amma, as they have been robbed of their right to an education.

In Iran, women are denied equal educational opportunities. Schools are segregated by gender, which worsens the discrimination women face, according to The Washington Post. This is upsetting, as many women in Iran do not have access to the valuable resources my mom and grandma received throughout their lives.

Even in the U.S., countless women enter the workforce each

year, yet are still underrepresented in leadership positions. For every 100 men promoted from entry-level roles to management positions, only 87 women are promoted, according to the American Association of Uni versity Women. Fe male managers con tinue to earn less than male managers, which undermines the amount of time, effort and

An act of service, or just an act?

Volunteer clubs benefit students, communities

By Amber Birrell

A few hours spent setting up a holiday event can brighten a child’s day, and collecting trash in a creek helps restore important ecosystems around us.

Volunteering undoubtedly has a positive impact on our communities and benefits countless individuals.

HHS provides many opportunities to become an active member of our community through its 17 volunteering clubs on campus. This not only improves our society, but also our mental and physical health, according to Western Connecticut State University.

Volunteering clubs boost the self-es teem of their members, as they provide us with a sense of purpose and accomplish ment. Contributing to communities allows volunteers to feel fulfilled, and it shapes us into engaged citizens with the opportunity to make a positive difference in the world around us.

This sense of purpose is especially im portant for students, given that self-esteem is lowest among young adults, according to the American Psychological Association.

By providing teenagers with a variety of volunteer opportunities through clubs, HHS enables participants to increase their self-confidence.

Furthermore, volunteering allows teenagers to play a role in shaping the world into a better place. It inspires adolescents to make contributions and improve the lives of others when they see the impact they make.

Many volunteering opportunities of fered by California Scholarship Federa tion feature community-wide events like holiday celebrations that anyone can at tend or volunteer at.

During these gatherings, individuals can meet people from their community they would not have otherwise interacted with,

fostering connections between students of diverse backgrounds.

These opportunities also attract many student volunteers, which prevents events from being short-staffed and ensures they are able to run smoothly.

Although I have noticed many students join volunteer organizations on campus to strengthen their resumes or receive cords at graduation, the outcomes of these students’ actions are beneficial to both themselves and the people around them.

Ultimately, volunteering is a meaningful activity that cultivates a positive environment for communities.

By offering membership to various volunteer clubs on campus, HHS helps connect us to impactful opportunities that improve our community and inspire us to

Misguided intentions undermine volunteer work

By Seoyoung Hwang

I am in two of the 17 volunteer clubs at HHS. Although I first joined them out of curiosity, I primarily stayed for college applications and the graduation cord that comes with being a member. However, my experiences reveal an underlying issue — many students join volunteer clubs to improve their resumes and earn volunteer hours. Instead, students should focus on giving back to their community and making a positive impact through their work.

There are only a handful of volunteer clubs on campus that actually offer volunteer opportunities for members on a regular basis. Clubs such as the Nursing Home Volunteering Club and Friends of the

meaningful contributions they make for their job.

Ultimately, we need the courage to stand up for what we believe in. We must educate ourselves and others to combat the injustices faced by women around the world. And most importantly, us women must be heard and respected, not ignored and overlooked.

Furniture Bank have limited volunteering opportunities. I have seen multiple members appear disinterested, only attending meetings for the volunteering hours awarded or to hang out with friends. There are fewer attendees at general meetings as the year progresses, which limits the amount of information officers can convey to their members and the scope of their influence.

Some volunteering clubs offer hours for events that do not benefit participants or the community. For instance, I have earned volunteer hours for making a Spotify playlist, which was an activity that lacks any aspect of community service. Events like these simply exist for members to gain hours and meet the requirements to earn a cord or showcase fake compassion to colleges.

Helping my community

Speak up, say ‘gay’

Fight anti-LGBTQ+ legislation

By Brevin Reed

Less than a year ago, the first ever “Don’t Say Gay” bill was passed in Florida. Checks and balances intended to protect equal rights and fight injustice failed — instead, a new precedent was set. Now, over a dozen states have proposed variations of the “Don’t Say Gay” law, and a new national bill has been introduced in the House, according to NPR. These laws have been and inevitably will be disastrous for LGBTQ+ youth.

The bill’s pri-

mary purpose is to ban the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in kindergarten to third grade classrooms, according to PBS.

Beyond that, these topics are only permitted if they are appropriate for children’s development in accordance with the state standard, though these standards are never defined.

The vague wording of the law leaves it open to interpretation, giving opponents of LGBTQ+ literature and education more leeway to prohibit its teaching in classrooms for higher grade levels.

The bill introduced on the House floor has officially been named the “Stop the Sexualization of Children Act,” which is sickening, even in name.

The bill implies that being gay is inherently sexual, as it lumps

Volunteer hours for college

In fact, many students at HHS are motivated by the college admissions process. 82.3% of the students said they joined a volunteer club for college applications, whereas only 43.7% said they possessed a genuine interest in volunteering, according to a survey of 162 students.

Moreover, the founders and officers of the volunteering organizations usually create these campus-wide clubs for the same reason. Of the 29 officers who responded to the survey, 23 said they took on their position to increase their chances of admittance to universities. This leads to HHS having several volunteer clubs with meaningless events and a lack of passion instilled in their members or officer teams.

To combat this harmful trend, campus-wide clubs should recognize these misguided intentions and instead work to promote authenticity.

By focusing on genuinely improving our community, clubs can create a lasting impact on campus and beyond, cultivating a generation of dedicated community members.

Ultimately, volunteering clubs must create meaningful platforms that encourage students to engage in their communities — not because they are pressured to, but because they truly want to.

the subjects of gender identify and sexual orientation together with stripping and pornography.

Despite the fundamentally different nature of these concepts, gender identity and sexual orientation are wrongfully treated as vulgar and inappropriate topics of the same caliber.

But this notion is wrong, and I am living proof these “Don’t Say Gay” bills are utterly abhorrent.

By the age of 10, I knew who I liked and how I felt. I would have loved at the time to have seen and learned about other queer people like me, yet due to a lack of representation both in media and at school, I felt completely alone and utterly isolated.

No child should ever be made to feel unnatural in their own body. However, these new “Don’t Say Gay” laws are stifling what kids

like me needed the most. While I can never go back and assure my younger self that things will get better, I can look to the future and try to make the world a better place for kids like me, and so can everyone else.

Normalizing LGBTQ+ representation for people across all ages is a start, which can be accomplished by including queer characters in media that have complex personalities other than just being “gay.”

Furthermore, promoting open discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity is another step in the right direction.

But most importantly, showing younger generations they can love whomever they want without fear of judgment or persecution is the best counter in this ongoing fight for equality.

Althoughvolunteeringopportunitiescanhelptobenefitourcommunity,clubsmustprioritizehelpingstudentsdevelopgenuineintentionsandchampioningmeaningfulcauses. (IllustrationbyAmberBirrell)

Comprehensive sex education is crucial

By Madhavi Karthik

When I was young, my parents taught me that it is important to build a positive relationship with my body. In fifth grade, I attended a Stanford seminar called “Heart to Heart: A Seminar on Growing Up” with my mom, which promoted the destigmatization of sexual health.

Although I was somewhat scandalized at the time, I am forever grateful for that course, because it made me more receptive to sex education during middle and high school.

Unfortunately, many students are deprived of the valuable opportunities I had to learn about my body. Parents in California are allowed to opt their children out of comprehensive sexual health units because of a provision in the Healthy Youth Act, which established sex education standards for the state.

While parents may prevent their children from participating for a variety of reasons, this unit’s lessons are vital to students’ well-being in their future.

California’s sex education unit in biology classes encompasses crucial topics like adult communication, committed and healthy relationships, healthy decision making, sexual orientations, gender identity and STI prevention, Title IX coordinator Trudy Gross said.

This unit also addresses fundamental life practices, such as the importance of consent. From a young age, students must learn the significance of giving and re-

ceiving consent to create fulfilling relationships, while also respecting the boundaries of others. It is a simple yet powerful concept that has the potential to cultivate an inclusive space.

Although only a few students opt out of the unit annually, according to Gross, every student without the knowledge of sexual health is more susceptible to harming themselves and others, as they lack the tools to protect themselves from dangerous situations.

Comprehensive sex education offered at schools provides a way for individuals to gain credible information and improves teenage health literacy, according to Planned Parenthood.

Without a reliable source for sex education, students are forced to base their knowledge on hearsay and pop culture, which ingrains a biased or flawed understanding of sexual health in their minds.

Ultimately, it is unfair to deny teens the opportunity to learn about issues that will affect them for the rest of their lives. When students are ready to be sexually active, how can they be expected to make healthy decisions without proper guidance?

Every student should have access to a comprehensive understanding of sexual health to ensure safe relationships with themselves and others.

Whether it is 10 students or just one who chooses not to sit in their biology class during this unit, every person lacking a comprehensive sex education makes a difference in society.

To all of the squeamish parents out there, please think twice before denying your child information that could save their lives.

Pursuing our potential

By Hope Saena

After being a stay-at-home parent for the last seven years, my mom decided to pursue her dream of combating climate change through community-led solutions. To achieve this dream, she knew she needed to learn more about America’s unique climate issues, since she spent the majority of her life in Samoa.

With the knowledge and experience she gained from pursuing a master’s degree in environmental management at

Duke University, my mom has far surpassed what she initially hoped for. Her life has inspired me to view college as a meaningful opportunity for me to discover my passions and chase my own dreams.

Now, as the founder and executive director of her own nonprofit, my mom is accomplishing her goals, working hand in hand with communities to combat climate change while understanding and uplifting the voices of the overlooked. Like my mom, I want to attend college to further educate myself, explore my interests and make a positive difference through my work.

If you want to leave a lasting impact on the world, you should pursue what you genuinely are interested in, rather than looking for a high-paying job. In a family full of doctors, I convinced myself that medicine was the right path for me. Although I disliked my science classes, I continued to persevere, as I was solely motivated by the chance to earn money and fulfill prior expectations. Yet,

pursuing medicine only brought me dissatisfaction and a feeling of emptiness, because in the end, I had no real passion for the field. If I continued down this career pathway in college, I would be robbing myself of a meaningful life. I would waste those four years, struggling and suffering to become something I am not.

However, once I discovered my love for journalism, I gained a sense of accomplishment, since I genuinely felt passionate about a field I wanted to pursue. I began finding ways to educate myself and cultivate this newfound interest. Luckily, through my journalism class, I landed an internship with Mercury News, a local media outlet. The months I spent interviewing strangers and covering impactful topics allowed me to grow out of my shell.

As I learned more about journalism, my passion for it grew. Ultimately, college is filled with opportunities like these, brimming with hands-on experience and opportunities for drastic growth.

Even if you do not have a clear path in mind, college provides many ways to experience and explore all fields of study. If my interests evolve, I know I will be provided with the support I need.

My mom’s experiences have shown me that college opens the door to valuable opportunities and resources. Because of this, I strongly believe that college is a necessary step in my journey, as it will enable me to further my education and pursue my passion for environmental journalism. I hope others who are looking to chase their dreams choose the same.

Fueling flawed stereotypes

By Niyatee Jain

“Oh, you probably did well on the test. You’re Asian.”

When roaming the halls of our school, I often hear remarks like this, which perpetuate the stereotype that certain races are more prone to success than others. This belief stems from one flawed concept — the model minority myth.

Testing alternatives

Essays

Essays assess cognitive skills and allow students to use their knowledge creatively by forming arguments. Students generally spend less time on useless memorization when they write essays.

Projects

Project-based learning enables students to apply what they are learning to the real world. Project grades better reflect the learning and effort of students than late night cramming for a test.

The model minority myth is the notion that certain races have the power to succeed academically and economically solely through talent and hard work, according to Learning for Justice. Although this myth mainly targets Asian Americans, it can be applied to any group. Ultimately, this belief is harmful because it pressures Asian students to fit into a rigid mold that is unfairly created by white supremacy.

In 2018, Harvard University was accused of giving its Asian applicants lower personality ratings, contributing to the widespread belief that all Asians prioritize studying and good grades over socializing, according to the New York Times. This reflects the belief that Asians lack individuality and are driven by a desire for future success and status.

This myth has fueled other harmful stereotypes, such as the existence of “tiger moms” — strict mothers who push their overworked children to achieve high levels of success. This idea depicts all Asian parents as traditional, cold and emotionally abusive, reducing an entire group to a few undesirable characteristics.

This notion of a “tiger parent” is damaging because it portrays all Asian mothers as manipulative. However, parents who support their children’s education can help them thrive, according to a study by Harvard researchers. In addition, involved parents are not unique to just one race. They demonstrate a type of parenting, not a characteristic of Asian American families.

This stereotype distorts the positive intentions of caring parents. Parents should not be seen as manipulative simply for wanting their children to work diligently and prosper, and it is not foolish to want the next generation to have a well-rounded education and a drive for achievement.

the model minority myth because of our location in Silicon Valley. With its dense Asian pop ulation and com petitive atmo sphere, Bay

Area culture spreads and reinforces the model minority myth. Generalizations about race have persisted for too long. The only way to stop the destructive stigmas of the model minority myth is to stop attaching all Asians to the same flawed traits.

As students who experience the model minority myth, we must stop it from spreading. Continuing to promote harmful stereotypes only fuels rifts between students of different backgrounds. It is our duty to spread that message because future changes start with our generation. So, stop making assumptions about your classmate just because they are Asian, and start fighting harmful stereotypes.

Parents should not opt students out of sexual health unit

Attend college to follow your passions, not money

Model minority myth targets Asian students

Infographic by Nicole Pimenta Innecco and Faith Watters

Keeping dreams alive

By Lia Klebanov

COLUMN — I was five years old the first time I saw Pinocchio. Aside from admiring the Blue Fairy’s magical dress, the song “When You Wish Upon a Star” struck me as a motivational message.

Later that night, I looked out my window and began contemplating how I wanted my life to look. Right then and there I decided I wanted to be a rock star when I grew up. A few years later, it changed to a teacher. After that, becoming a doctor sounded promising.

Our dreams are al ways evolving and it is our responsibility to pursue them. Ever since elementary school, I have prided myself in be ing determined and doing whatever it takes to achieve my goals.

As a dancer, learning to do acrobatic tricks did not come naturally. I constantly practiced smoothly switching from a handstand to a bridge, while occasionally falling flat on my back. However, nothing deterred me and I eventually succeeded in building my repertoire.

This year, managing college applications and schoolwork was not an easy feat, to say the least. Spending every waking moment doing homework or working on essays was exhausting and it seemed like there was no end in sight.

I reached the point where I had very little time for myself, and I started to notice a decline in my mental and physical health.

After taking a weekend off, I realized that these challenges are part of the journey. In the meantime, focusing on the positives, such as the exciting adventures awaiting me after pressing the submit button, helped me to continue working toward my goals.

High school has been a time when I have explored different sides of myself and have had the opportunity to develop my interests.

As of now, I am not entirely sure what my future holds or even know what I truly want. I have learned that it is normal for my goals to change, even daily. But, I have promised myself to continue wishing upon the stars and achieving my aspirations, whatever they may be.

Climate crew combats clutter

Club initiates recycling program to benefit community

By Ella Chan

After noticing the abundance of trash left on campus, climate crew co-founder Thien Mai Vu and other board members created the climate crew recycling shifts program to solve this ongoing problem.

“Neighbors were complaining about how there was trash left on their lawns, and we also heard that custodians weren’t paid to sort through the trash,” Vu, a sophomore, said. “A lot of the recycling wouldn’t end up being recycled because of the lack of sorting.”

As a solution, Vu said the officers thought of implementing weekly club member shifts during tutorials on Wednesdays and Fridays to pick up trash around the school.

Two groups of about 25 students take turns picking up trash and are kept updated through daily email reminders about their shifts. During these shifts, students are assigned to classrooms and look through the recycling bins to ensure everything is correctly sorted.

The system began in the mid-

dle of 2021 and is an ongoing project. Members are still being added and the club is bigger than ever, Vu said.

Eager to help the recycling program, ASB sustainability commissioner Aayushma Adhikari also contributed by establishing the structure of rotations after wanting to help solve the waste problem, she said.

“There were many challenges when the idea was first experimented with, since people didn’t go to their shifts and were confused about their classroom assignments,” Adhikari, a sophomore, said. “Luckily we were able to sort it out and get things rolling.”

The club has drawn a large amount of attention and currently has 75 members, Vu said. The club is still expanding as it will also provide volunteer opportunities for other clubs such as CSF and NHS.

One club member, Mika Cohen, said she is excited to partake in a moving cause. As a member since her freshman year, she said she has enjoyed making a difference.

“It’s fun to do it with friends and feel like we’re helping out the school,” Cohen, a sophomore, said. “I also think it’s helped improve recycling because it takes the stress off of custodians so they can just have the bins already sorted for them.”

A voice for the voiceless Animal

welfare

club advocates for animals worldwide

By Anderson Picone and Mackie Vu

Desiree Poon’s desire to save abandoned animals sparked from watching YouTube videos, where abandoned animals were rescued. Channeling her experiences from volunteering at a local shelter, the junior is now the president of the animal welfare club.

Animal welfare is dedicated to improving the lives of animals by informing students about animal rights, organizing educational activities and arranging fundraisers, activities director, Siena Park said.

Park, a sophomore, said animal welfare not only aims to make a change at a local level, but globally through inspiring its members to make a large-scale impact.

“We want to bring attention to problems animals face and try our best to advocate for them,” Park said. “This idea is something that doesn’t just apply to HHS. It can apply to everyone everywhere.”

As a considerable step toward fufilling this goal, in October the club hosted a fundraiser at the homecoming celebration where they sold animal stickers and raised around eighty dollars for the Humane Society, Park said.

Previously, animal welfare hosted toy and treat-making events for the Humane Society, a nonprofit organization opposing animal-related cruelty. This year, officers partnered with key club to continue the tradition, Park said.

As a member of the club, sophomore Sibylle Giffon said she values the community impact of these interactive activities.

“My favorite event was the cat and dog toy-making activity last year because I felt like I was actually doing something instead of just discussing the significant issues,” Giffon said. “I think it’s important to discuss the topics, but at the same time I felt really good after the event because I was acting on the promise I made to the animals.”

During every general meeting, the officers discuss a topic that pertains to an animal’s well-being, such as poaching, which is determined through members’ input, Poon said. After the presentation,

there is an engaging activity, such as making dog-treats or crafting a paper turkey.

For those who are passionate about animal rights, Poon said there are many ways students can spread the word. Park said students who care about animals have a duty to educate others around them and raise awareness for this ongoing issue.

“People should join animal welfare because it’s a great opportunity to learn more about how animals are being treated,” Park said. “It affects everyone in some type of unique way.”

An unconventional learning experience

Brit lit covers torture, propaganda topics

By Saira Ahmed and Parth Dhaulakhandi

Strapped to a bed and electrocuted repeatedly, he has no idea when the pain will end. Rebellion has one consequence: torture. Not to worry, this is just another unit of the British literature class.

Senior year offers a wide variety of course options for literature, one of which is British literature. The class covers topics including imperialism, film and satire.

Senior Mae Richardson said she was motivated to take the course because she was interested in the books covered and also wanted a break from more rigorous classes.

“After taking American literature honors, I wanted a chill senior year,” Richardson said. “I decided to take British literature because the books they read seemed interesting, they have a movie unit, and I’m applying to college as a film major.”

Though the movie unit will appear later in the school year, Richardson said she is interested in the current books the class is reading, such as the modern dystopian novel “1984” by George Orwell, a cautionary tale of totalitarianism.

One of the topics covered in the novel is torture. British literature teacher Adrian McMahon said

he presents pictures and videos to the class that are taken in a controlled environment, depicting the gruesome act as it would exist historically.

McMahon gives students the option to leave the room if they feel uncomfortable watching these scenes, Richardson said. However, out of her own curiosity, she said she chose to view these photos and videos as they can provide greater historical context for the events in the novel.

Another interesting literature topic that is covered in the course is propaganda, senior Kaleb Kim said. He also learned about governments overpowering their populations, which he said he finds particularly compelling.

“I find British literature much more interesting [than other liter-

ature classes],” Kim said. “After this unit, we’re going to get into satire and other forms of British literature, while not being super boring about it. It’s a pretty fun class.”

McMahon said he prioritizes creating an engaging environment for his students while teaching topics that can be considered bland.

One assignment that accomplishes this goal involves students writing a gory battle scene using imagery and visualization to tell an intriguing story, McMahon said.

“My line to the students is always, ‘If your parents read this, they should be worried,’” McMahon said. “If the class is enjoying [the material], they’re going to learn, and especially with British literature, I think you can kill the class easily. If you analyze every single line dryly, it’s going to be torture.”

Animalwelfareclubmemberscreatepaperturkeystohanginthe libraryforThanksgiving.(PhotosbyMackieVu)

BritishliteratureanalyzesBeowulf,anoldEnglishpoem.

A Mind of

Tackling the ways media impacts

All birds tweet

title

Students react to Elon Musk revoking censorship on Twitter

When can

Reframing and Refocusing

Overcoming bias, power of acknowledgement

By Karuna Chandran, Zeinab Rakhshandehroo and Hope Saena

Every day, many make judgment calls and decisions, from choosing a show to watch to casting a vote in an election. These choices are a culmination of their environment, culture and upbringing, according to the American Psychological Association.

James Aguirre, English teacher

For English teacher James Aguirre, reaching out to diverse perspectives to understand them better has granted him a clearer view on the world, rather than what is presented online, he said.

“I want to learn from lots of people’s backgrounds and not just make assumptions or take what I read on the internet as ab solute truth, which I think is what most people do,” Aguirre said. “I don’t think the picture is ever complete. But

I get a more complete picture of whatever I’m learning.”

Aguirre said that through his intersectionality, he is able to achieve this goal of better understanding others and their life experiences.

“I’m a giant white man — all the privileges in the world. But as a queer person, a member of the Jewish Diaspora and somebody in an interracial marriage, there’s also a lot I can understand,” Aguirre said. “It doesn’t mean I’m an expert, but I can understand.”

Although confronting internal biases can be difficult, Aguirre said taking the first step towards acknowledging various forms of privileges can be meaningful.

“It’s difficult, uncomfortable work,” Aguirre said. “But, all of us can be vic tims of these structures and all we can do is work to know that these exist first before we can even break

social media has on teenager’s perspectives.

“Depending on the influencers you follow, you might gain some of their traits because you want to be like them,” Urbano said. “But there’s more than one option, more than one opinion [of what is correct].”

Using social media can also have serious implications regarding one’s mental health, according to PubMed. To combat this, Urbano said he has actively worked to disconnect from Instagram.

“I try to stay off social media because I know they’re gonna flood my mind,” Urbano don’t like to worry about things I shouldn’t stress over.”

Ting Yong Liu (11)

Through experience, political science union secretary and trea surer Ting Yong Liu said she has seen social media drastically impact the political views of teenagers to day. Through promotions such as posts and articles, Liu

said these media hold much power.

“Social media has a lot of advertising in regards to politics,” Liu, a junior, said. “If a specific politician has an advertisement, it’s definitely more likely for teenagers to base their political opinions on it.”

Distorted images presented on social media cause teenagers to make incorrect or one-sided assumptions, which can blind them from seeing the full picture, Liu said.

“As someone who has experience living in China, there’s a lot of false information about how much freedom a person has in China,” Liu said. “I see news articles and posts on [oppression] in China. When I see comments or likes [on posts about China’s policies] from people I know, I feel like they believe [those posts], when the information isn’t entirely correct.”

The biases with which information is presented in the media alters the biases of students, Liu said.

“[Media] filters the information audiences see,” Liu said, “so it definitely shapes their mindset toward certain issues.”

“I think it’s a little funny seeing as Elon Musk himself is censoring those speaking against him. Twitter is kind of known as the cesspool of the internet and [Elon Musk] will only drive it into the ground.”

“I do not think it’s right to suspend people’s right to free speech because when you suspend free speech for one person, you are suspending it for everybody.”

“The First Amendment doesn’t actually protect against misinformation. So, I feel like [Elon Musk] is just doing what he feels is right, even though it’s not really good for the actual platform.”

Miles Urbano (11) Junior Miles Ur bano said he has experienced the significant impact

People’s biases and ways of thinking are influenced by many factors. By reflecting on their own biases, people are able to broaden their horizons and gain new perspectives. (Photo courtesy of Ting Yong Liu, photos by Hope Saena)

“You’ve got to person. But online, they say, then

“One little thing more. People pretty stupid.”

“Nowadays people 60s or 80s don’t people having

“In different ‘normal.’ But want to be respectful.

of Our Own

impacts students, staff in a digital era

can we make jokes?

know when it’s a joke. Most jokes are okay so long as you know the online, unless you know the person and their intentions behind what then don’t make such a big deal about it.”

thing can trigger people and that’s when they don’t take jokes anyPeople will take it as the truth and then cancel that person. I think that’s stupid.”

people are starting to understand that things that were accepted in the don’t apply today. It’s less of people being more sensitive and more of having a greater understanding of what is more accepted today.”

places throughout the world, there are different expectations of what is in our area, which is really diverse, we’re exposed to more people and respectful. There’s a higher expectation of what that respect looks like.”

Leveling Up

title tktktk

back in my day...

1980’s “Magazines and MTV were my two sources of information gathering and how I felt I needed to be. I was very caught up in looking a certain way, but I never did. It gave me this really warped sense of body image and worth.”

1990’s “I grew up with the first computer. When I would forget to print something out, I would bring my floppy disk from home to school. It was a really cool time to grow up because you had to learn flexibility.”

2000s “MySpace had you rank your friends, which sounded really normal at the time, but now looking back is problematic. You did your top eight, so eight people would be displayed on your page, which definitely caused some drama.”

2010’s “I’ve always been really into video games and [at the time] gaming on YouTube and watching people play was the thing to do. That definitely influenced the games that I liked.”

Photo courtesy of Shawnee Riviera

Photo courtesy of Kathleen Shreve

Photo courtesy of Megan Bridge

Photo courtesy of Hector Almendarez

Good morning, Mustangs!

“I want to make it a fun experience. So when I can, I make a little joke so [students] can have a good start to their day.”

By Niyatee Jain

It is 8:30 a.m. – cue the morning announcements. The twice-aweek, five-minute report includes a wide variety of information, ranging from upcoming club meetings to campuswide initiatives.

Unlike last year, the morning announcements are only broadcast twice a week due to the constraints of the new bell schedule, senior Ivy Zhan said.

The tryout process for the announcements was introduced in an email sent to students at the beginning of the year, Zhan said. Students were asked to read a sample script, and then the administration selected a team of readers. There are six readers this year: three on Wednesday and three on Friday.

Freshman Aarkan Singhal, one of this year’s morning announcements readers, said he decided to try out for this position because he thought it would be an exciting way to start students’ days.

“When people come [to school on] Wednesday, it’s just another boring day at school,” Singhal said.

Like Singhal, senior Deni Eways signed up to read the announcements for the first time this year. Eways, who reads every Friday, said being a part of the team has allowed her to grow closer to people she would not have otherwise been introduced to.

“I like talking, and I don’t have a problem with just reading on the spot, so I thought I should try it,” Eways said. “I don’t really like being the center of attention because people always look at me, but now [I’m] almost like Siri, where [my] voice becomes something everyone knows, and I thought that was cool.”

Both Eways and Singhal said reading the morning announcements has strengthened their public speaking skills. Eways said reading the morning announcements has helped her feel less nervous when speaking in her Spanish class.

“When you do morning announcements, you have to have the confidence to speak publicly,” Singhal said. “If someone wants to go on stage but they want to practice public speaking [first], the morning announcements can be a really good way to do that.”

Marketing in the making

Annual Maker’s Fair sparks innovation

By Brevin Reed, Helen Tam and Annabelle Yip

The I-Hub came alive with the chatter of excited voices as students drew on whiteboards and crafted various designs of potential products. As the Maker’s Fair approached, these students were working under a tight deadline, principles of business teacher Graeme Logie said. The event was officially held on Dec. 14 during lunch.

Logie has hosted the Maker’s Fair in the quad annually for all students and staff to enjoy since 2017. The idea for the event originated from a freestanding FBLA project, where students were challenged to teach people about American enterprise, Logie said. Logie then worked with FBLA to create guidelines and adapt this project for the classroom.

“It’s one thing to talk about marketing in the classroom, but it’s another thing to actually see those concepts in action,” Logie said. “For example, we did some brainstorming activities [that involved] describing the typical customer on campus and how to reach them.”

Principles of business students faced the challenge of creating a business from scratch, Logie said.

On the day of the Maker’s Fair, students sold their products and strived to earn the most profit out of all their competitors.

Freshman Kenzie Murray said her group planned on starting a business where they sold clay charms resembling food, stars and flowers that could be attached to backpacks. Each group was allowed to determine the direction of their business, which placed the power in the hands of students, Logie said.

“I like how much freedom we get, because [we] have a lot of

Drop it like it’s hot

Students drop classes due to workload, holes in curriculum

By Anushruti Nagarajan, Anderson Picone and Evelyn Wang

As the school year unfolds, many high school students discover their classes are not as suitable for them as they had previously thought. Whether it is due to unengaging class material, high levels of rigor or heavy workloads, numerous students have decided dropping a class is the best option for them.

This year, junior Audrey Curtis said she chose to drop AP chemistry due to the rigorous coursework, despite finding the subject interesting.

“There was so much work, and everything was fast paced,” Curtis said. “It was discouraging to take a test for a class that I felt [confident] in, only to realize there was

no way for me to understand what was actually going to be on the test, and [there was] no [guidance] given on what to practice.”

Like Curtis, sophomore Chloe Kim said she originally took a Java course because she thought it was a prerequisite for AP computer science. However, she decided to drop it at the beginning of the year because the class was too repetitive for her, since she took Java outside of school. In addition, Kim said she scored poorly on the first test.

Ultimately, she said she does not regret her decision and believes dropping the class was beneficial.

“Dropping Java allowed me to have a lot more free time,” Kim said. “I [am now] able to focus more on my other classes and be less stressed from school. For a lot of people, it’s a great and interesting class, but [for me], it’s just not the right time for it. I don’t think it will ever be the right time because [Java] isn’t something I enjoy.”

Although there are many reasons students choose to drop their

classes, guidance counselor Raquel DeJesus said the main reason is students enroll in too many AP or honors courses. When they try to balance their time with extracurricular activities, it can be overwhelming, she said.

DeJesus said by dropping classes, students gain a better understanding of themselves and the amount of work they can handle. This helps them choose a more appropriate course load in the future.

However, DeJesus said if a student drops a class after a specific deadline, their decision will be indicated on their transcript. A dropped class is better than a failing grade, but a passing grade is better than a dropped class, she said.

“If there are colleges that students are looking into that require a specific class and they’re choosing to drop it, that could be a difficult decision [for the college],” DeJesus said.

While selecting courses, students should strive to challenge

opportunities to speak our mind,” Murray said. “It’s very fun to figure everything out.”

Sophomore Kaleab Tekle said his group planned to make laminated bookmarks decorated with the faces of celebrities.

With these bookmarks, students could avoid damaging the spines of novels or bending the corners of pages, Tekle said.

“So far, [the process of the Maker’s Fair] has been fun because I get to see other people be creative and work with my friends on a project we choose,” Tekle said. “I’m also excited to see what [my classmates] will produce.”

Before creating a product, students needed to determine the logistics of their plan, Murray said. This consisted of deciding where to get materials, their cost, the price of the final product and the overall profit that could be earned.

After planning, students fo -

cused on marketing, which consisted of making an Instagram account and creating fliers to hang up in classrooms. Murray said marketing was important in the business process because it got people excited to buy their product.

Students who sold the most products became the winners of the Maker’s Fair. After the event, everyone was reimbursed for the cost of building their product, Logie said. Students are only reimbursed based on the amount of money they earn, and any additional profits are used to fund a party for the class at the end of the year.

“Some kids take the class because they want the chance to test the waters of business,” Logie said. “It’s exciting to go out and see them selling their products, especially the joy in their eyes when they make that first sale.”

themselves, but not beyond their mental or physical limits, DeJesus said. Counselors recommend taking no more than three AP or honors classes.

“Students have to know them-

selves and what they can manage, not just follow what other classmates are doing,” DeJesus said. “You do not need to follow your classmates’ paths. You might have a separate path, and that is okay.”

Behind the scenes of the morning announcements

Singhal

Transformation through tutoring

AVID tutors reflect on uplifting experiences

By Nicole Pimenta Innecco

Walk into an AVID classroom, and you will be greeted by the sounds of lively discussions, markers on a whiteboard and scribbles on notebooks. The AVID classes are separated by grade levels with a common goal of going to college, senior Francesca Pastizzo said.

The tutors are first recommended by teachers, and then those who are interested submit an application for the role. As tutors, they participate in these engaging classrooms, mentoring the dedicated college-hopefuls.

Pastizzo, who tutors for the freshman AVID class, said her older brother frequently talked about his positive experiences with his tutors, which inspired her to become one herself.

As a senior, Pastizzo loves having the opportunity to bond with the freshman class and offer them the same guidance her brother received, she said.

“I get to tell them what I wish I knew during my freshman year,” Pastizzo said. “I see their potential and help them direct their motivation to the right places. As a senior, I get that it all adds up, including your habits, so what you do during your freshman year matters.”

While mentoring younger students is important to Pastizzo, junior Taishi Maekawa said working with students in her own grade provided her with the chance to form valuable connections.

“[ The AVID students have] known each other for three years now,” Maekawa, who tutors for the junior AVID class, said. “It’s a special feeling to be added to this

family that really works together to thrive together. Because they are in my grade, I get to help them succeed in classes alongside me and learn from them myself.”

Junior Audrey Magpantay said their experiences have provided opportunities for self-growth through mentorship. Tutoring offered the space to expand their leadership capacities while building collaboration and communication skills, Magpantay said.

“We’re teaching each other,” Magpantay, a tutor for the sophomore class, said. “As I’m tutoring students a year younger than me, I can reflect on things I learned last year with new people, and reapply them to my current classes.”

Similarly, senior Will Le said being an AVID tutor for seniors who are nearing the end of their journeys to college, has provided him insight into just how far these students have progressed and how meaningful their accomplishments are.

“If you walk into our classroom, there’s a whole wall with everyone’s names and the colleges that have accepted them,” Le said.

“I used to take it for granted, as I felt almost guaranteed to go to college. But now it’s so cool to see

these kids, who have worked hard to improve their chances, having all these options and opportunities ahead of them.”

Like Le, Pastizzo said it is inspiring to witness the amount of growth among the AVID class. She said she believes AVID students are highly motivated and their work ethic is inspiring.

“They wouldn’t be in that room if they weren’t motivated individuals,” Pastizzo said. “They’re the kids that are brave enough to ask for help and take the time and effort to write extra pages of notes every week just to see that improvement. AVID exemplifies that it’s okay to ask for help, and that it’s braver to admit that you need it, than to be too proud to take action.”

POV: Navigating college apps

Through the eyes of a burnt-out senior

By Christine Kim

I distinctly remember preparing to study for finals last November, immersing myself in the holiday spirit and maintaining a safe distance from my friends in the midst of their college applications.

This year, my life is filled with memories of sitting at my computer for hours, typing away at another supplemental essay. The leaves seem duller and time seems to pass quicker — or is my senioritis kicking in already?

Throughout junior year, I was waiting impatiently for senior year to roll around, eager to finish the most difficult part of high school. Although last year was undoubtedly stressful, there is nothing easier about handling my new course load while simultaneously completing college applications.

However, my poor time management caused the first semester of my senior year to pass by in a blur, leaving me with no substantial memories I can fondly look back on. From researching universities to brainstorming essays, I spent each day in a never-ending cycle. Rather than starting the application process over the summer, I waited until fall began.

Looking back, I wish I had the time to appreciate how momentous applying to college truly is. From the moment I learned what college was, I looked forward to pressing the “submit” button and celebrating such a significant step toward my future. The reality was

far from that. I knew the sheer impact submitting my applications would have, but sitting at my desk alone, delirious from sleep deprivation, that realization did not hit me. In fact, it still has not.

Having to condense my whole life story into a 650-word Common App essay was intimidating to say the least. Had I started brainstorming in the summer, I would not have felt so rushed.

The immense pressure I placed on myself to find the perfect moment to write about only made me want to delay it.

How could I show the admissions officers I was focused on my academic future, yet also a humorous person with unique interests? Once I took some pressure off and truly thought about how I wanted to be represented, I felt inspired by numerous moments in my life.

After much deliberation, I

wrote about a Starbucks frappuccino. I focused on a particular experience, when a late-start day led me to believe I had time to grab a drink — or so I thought. Time ticked by and I ignored my instinct to leave, making me late for school.

It was a light-hearted essay, but I delved deeper into how I learned from seemingly little milestones throughout my life.

I pushed off starting college applications due to an instilled fear of rejection. Now, I wish I realized earlier no one was placing pressure on me but myself.

Once I changed my mindset, I saw the multitude of possibilities the future offered, instead of feeling overwhelmed and confined.

When I submit my next application, I plan on soaking in that feeling of achievement, no matter how many times I need to press that confetti button.

Maekawa and Pastizzo facilitate AVID collaborative studygroups.(PhotosbyNiyateeJainandBrevinReed)

Gomez documentary reveals dark

side of fame

By Annabelle Yip

As soon as she steps outside, cameras flicker, fans scream her name and paparazzi yell intrusive questions about her personal life, itching for their next headline. These are all aspects of singer and actress Selena Gomez’s chaotic life in the public eye, which has been chronicled in the documentary “Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me.”

Watching the documentary, I was impressed by the authentic way Gomez’s mental health struggles are depicted. Gomez’s raw emotions are captured as she endures depression, anxiety, bipolar

disorder and lupus, an autoimmune disease. There are several glimpses of Gomez’s lowest moments, when she uncontrollably sobs during mental breakdowns or struggles to get out of bed in the morning.

Unfortunately, this documentary is not the most engaging or intriguing, as it randomly jumps between scenes instead of developing a natural sequence of events. We are shown intimate moments of Gomez’s life without gaining an understanding of the context behind these events.

Nonetheless, I was moved by the film. It opened my eyes to the unique effects of mental health on a pop star. I could not imagine someone at the pinnacle of the entertainment industry could be-

lieve she was not “good enough” and battled a myriad of emotional obstacles. Gomez’s struggles with self-confidence hit home, and I found comfort in knowing I was not alone, since I have faced similar adversities.

Furthermore, I appreciate the powerful message the film sends — one that urges us to look out for those around us. This documentary shows how people can be struggling with mental illnesses we are blind to. In fact, one in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In an industry that often overlooks such issues, Gomez’s vulnerability is significant, raising awareness for this widespread issue.

People often believe celebrities live glamorous lives, but Gomez’s hardships cast light on the harmful side of fame. Gomez’s struggles demonstrate what it means to be human and not have everything figured out.

Celebrity documentaries are common, but this story is one that is often hidden, and it needs to be heard. In a society that still stigmatizes mental health, we must prioritize our own wellbeing and help others who are struggling.

“Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me.” Grade: A-. Rated: R. Watch on Apple TV+.

‘It’s a bad habit’

Original or overrated?

Celebrity obsessions blind fans

By Lindsey Steel

In recent years, celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Harry Styles have become the defining faces of the music industry, marking a new era of teen pop. With millions of fans across the world, these artists have left a lasting impact on pop culture. Yet, blinded by their obsessions, dedicated fans have applauded Swift and Styles for their every action, often mistaking their mediocre music for masterpieces.

While most of Swift’s past works have been impressive, I find it difficult to justify the pedestal her music is put on. Throughout her career, Swift has proved she is capable of producing music with personal and poetic value. However, her songwriting and artistry do not merit the praise they receive.

In particular, Swift’s newly released album “Midnights” demonstrates her lackluster songwriting abilities, with each

its place are underwhelming pop tunes that lack all forms of depth and complexity.

Harry Styles is another celebrity whose image fails to impress. Styles, who is known for his affinity for faux fur, sequins and other traditionally feminine attire, is often praised for his gender-nonconforming fashion, according to Vogue. While his outfits are certainly unique, recognizing Styles for revolutionizing the nontraditional fashion movement is completely undeserved.

Other artists, including Billy Porter and Lil Nas X, have been blurring gender lines in fashion, according to NPR. However, Styles receives most of the attention for his choices in attire, with his fans relentlessly praising him for his “original” wardrobe. Claiming that Styles is “breaking stereotypes” with his progressive fashion is greatly unwarranted, when in reality, he is one of the many artists to do so.

While Styles’s versatility as both an actor and a singer should be acknowledged, his works are almost always tremendously overrated. As a vocalist, his songs are dispassionate and generic. As an actor, his performances are disappointing — and in some instances, even laughable. It is apparent Styles is a multi-talented figure, but he is unworthy of the adoration he receives for his ventures in fashion, music and acting.

Underrated Artists

Swift’s socalled “lyrical genius” when the chorus of the lead single from “Midnights” consists of the lyrics, “It’s me, hi!

I’m the problem, it’s me.” Gone is the raw, understated elegance that previously set Swift apart, and in

While it is easy to commend Swift, Styles and other celebrities we idolize, we must be honest with ourselves about the quality of the work they create, and when necessary, call it what it is — mediocre.

Idolizationconfusesmediocritywithmastery. (IllustrationsbyMacyLiandLindseySteel)

Exploring local vegetarian options

By Harshitha Vijayakumar

Vegetarian options at restaurants do not always need to mean bland imitation meats that everyone dreads seeing on their plate. So, whether you are a fully fledged vegetarian or just becoming conscious of the impact meat-eating habits have on our earth, enjoy these picks for the best vegetarian options in the area.

Madras Cafe

The first place I visited was Madras Cafe, a South Indian restaurant that serves a variety of vegetarian dishes. My go-to choice is the ghee dosa ($8.99), which is a crepe-like dish made from a batter of ground-up lentils and rice. It is heated on a pan with lots of ghee, a clarified butter used in many South Indian dishes for a savory taste.

The presentation of the dish is captivating, with the edges of the giant dosa extending off the tray and a colorful array of delectable chutneys on the side, waiting to be dipped into. Although it is a minimalistic dish, the ghee dosa carries a delicate tangy flavor from the fermented lentils and rice, as well as a nutty taste from the ghee, while simultaneously maintaining its crispiness. This combination is perfect, providing nutrition in a delicious way.

This dish satiated my hunger, and to wash it down, I indulged in a mango lassi ($4.50) — a sweet but healthy way to end my meal. The mango lassi is a very thick

TikTok

fans ruin concerts for everyone

By Hope Saena

While performing his hit single “Bad Habit” at his New Orleans show on Oct. 24, Grammy-nominated artist Steve Lacy took a pause as a disposable camera was thrown at him. Frustrated, Lacy asked for the camera and smashed it, ending the show.

Although Lacy destroyed someone’s property, his frustration is understandable, given the disrespectful behavior of some crowds at his concerts, such as interrupting his sets and not knowing a majority of his songs. Ultimately, this incident could have been prevented if the crowd was filled with genuine fans, not ones influenced by TikTok trends.

Unlike these TikTok fans, before Lacy gained popularity on social media, I was familiar with his work with alternative R&B band The Internet. As their producer, guitarist and vocalist, his versatility caught my eye. Captivated by his music, I have had Lacy’s independent projects such as “Apollo XXI” and “Steve Lacy’s Demo” on repeat since 2017. So, when Lacy began teasing his new album, “Gemini Rights,” which features “Bad Habit,” I was excited to listen to this soulful project.

As “Bad Habit” began climbing the Billboard charts, I was delight-

Vegetarian ventures

ed to see more people recognizing Lacy’s musical genius. Soon there were TikTok trends using his songs, granting Lacy a larger platform. However, with all this newfound attention, the fight for a ticket to his concerts became a bloody battle.

Like gladiators in the Colosseum, fans including myself battled for a chance to see Lacy live. Unfortunately for me, tickets in the Bay Area sold out instantly. Initially, I was devastated, but after seeing the environment crowds were creating, I was grateful to have stayed

“Fans” who attend concerts only to sing along to one song or throw objects at the artists are wasting their time and the time of others. Their presence only negatively impacts the experiences of those who want to make genuine memories and enjoy the artist’s music. Additionally, these fans are taking spots away from people who are genuinely excited to sing along to every song and dance in between.

Although social media platforms can be beneficial for the careers of artists, new “fans” often have the bad habit of overshadowing the genuine ones. With crowds full of people there just for a trend, the connection between the audience and the artist is lost, resulting in a show not worth experiencing.

and creamy smoothie containing mangos, yogurt and a sprinkle of cardamom. The mango lassi at Madras Cafe is top-tier — the sweetness level is just right, and the thickness makes the lassi much more enjoyable. I can actually taste the cardamom, which is what differentiates this mango lassi from any other I have tried. After having multiple mouthwatering dishes, I always end my meal with a cup of traditional Madras-style filter coffee ($2.99) that instantly transports me to India with its vibrant and distinct flavors.

Madras Cafe. Grade: A-. 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale.

El Caminito

This non-vegetarian Mexican restaurant recently added more vegetarian options to its menu. I tried the enchiladas popeyes ($19), which consists of enchiladas filled with spinach and queso fresco topped with an orange sauce, along with a side of rice and beans. Typically, dishes are accompanied

by Spanish rice, refried beans and cheese, but this dish comes with a bowl of pinto beans and steamed white rice, which came as a surprise to me. The dish looked delicious, but unfortunately, I discovered looks can be deceiving.

The only enjoyable part of the dish is the orange sauce, which I was originally most apprehensive about. Eating the enchilada was an unpleasant experience, because it tasted rubbery. Yet, this was not the worst part. The pinto beans looked like they came straight out of a can, cold, wet and sitting in a bowl of sludge, and the steamed white rice was mushy and tasted like dish soap.

Creating new dishes to cater to vegetarians is necessary, but I wish the restaurant had refined these dishes before putting them on the menu. Although this was a disappointing experience, it will not deter me from my future vegetarian food endeavors.

El Caminito. Grade: B. 510 E El Camino Real Sunnyvale.

Fashion Police

By Amber Birrell

COLUMN — Pajama pants are an essential part of American high school fashion.

Each year during finals week, the campus is flooded with students wearing green plaid pants, some embellished with the HHS logo and others sporting the traditional pat tern.

These pajama pants have be come such a fash ion staple on cam pus that nobody bats an eye when catching sight of these green bottoms — and for good reason. They are one of the most convenient and comfortable pant options for taking a test on a chilly morning.

Their cotton material and loose shape ensure maximum comfort levels at school because they provide the perfect amount of warmth and fit cozily when you are seated. However, the one downfall of

these bottoms is their color. I struggle to style any green clothes because I feel limited by the few colors that pair nicely with this hue. White and black usually match well with the shade, but after a few times, these combinations start to feel very repetitive.

Nevertheless, I am willing to let this slide because of the amount of school spirit this piece brings to campus. In addition to their practicality and teenagers’ love for comfortable clothing, these green plaid pajama pants have proven to be a great way to showcase your support for HHS.

Whether students have the official HHS plaid pants or an identical pair from Target, green pajamas are a smart and subtle way to promote more school spirit on campus.

If you are looking for the perfect casual bottoms, these pants are a great option.

Welcome back to Wakanda

him and Shuri. Both have suffered the loss of their family members and lead powerful nations that overcame oppression.

By Nicole Kim

Loss is a powerful experience in both the fictional and real world. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” copes with loss in both spheres, following the passing of beloved hero Chadwick Boseman and his character King T’Challa.

In this emotion-filled movie, director Ryan Coogler immerses viewers in the futuristic nation of Wakanda, which is now ruled by Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett). The introduction of Namor (Tenoch Huerta), the god-like ruler of Talokan, presents the nation with its first military and technological equal, while also providing a main antagonist.

A character that plays a pivotal role in the movie is Shuri (Letitia Wright), the daughter of Queen Ramonda and sister of King T’Challa. The viewer gets an intimate look into her character and witnesses her evolve from being frustrated at the world to overcoming the loss of her brother. What is intriguing about Namor is the parallels that can be drawn between

Yet, this is pretty much the only thing I enjoyed about Namor’s story. The addition of this plot line diverts attention from more significant aspects of the movie — namely, Shuri stepping up to the role of the Black Panther. In the end, Namor is defeated by Shuri but not quite eliminated, so his reappearance in future Marvel movies can be expected.

Despite the excessive plot surrounding it, the single most breathtaking part of this movie is the culture displayed through Talokan. Everything from the jewelry to the vibrant clothing to the inclusion of pitz (an ancient Mayan ball game) is captivating. It is refreshing to see power being given to people who have so long been oppressed. Ultimately, this worthy representation is a powerful part of the movie and captivated me.

mission to take a sip of my Coke.

For a Marvel fan like me, this movie opens up Pandora’s box of future plot lines. It marks new changes for both Wakanda and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

I am excited to see what the future holds, and I hope the story of Wakanda really does live forever.

campus

By Parth Dhaulakhandi

“Mini P.E.K.K.A. connects!”

‘Clash Royale’ craze on Raising awareness for mental,

This is an all-too-familiar reference to anyone who keeps up with game trends at HHS. I have observed people who spend much of their time playing “Clash Royale,” a game that has left a noticeable impact on our school’s gaming culture.

The game’s newfound reputation and popularity serves as a catalyst for conversation. “Clash Royale” has presented many people with opportunities to bond with their friends, and it also

sparks meaningful connections with strangers. When playing the game, I found myself starting to build new friendships with people I barely knew.

For many students, it is also an escape from the academic stress and heavy workload caused by high school. A good three to five minutes of playing the game is a reprieve students might crave after a daunting math test or a particularly challenging day of school.

However, the game does have its pitfalls, since playing it has become a social norm among students, with many people downloading it just to fit in. As a result, peer pressure heavily influences the popularity of Clash Royale, especially among teens today. I, myself, was affected by this too — I downloaded the game just to fit in before deciding it was too addictive.

I have witnessed the profound impact of “Clash Royale” on our school. This thrilling and action-packed game helps students of different backgrounds form friendships and relieve school-related stresses.

Although many aspects of the movie impressed me, it falls short as many Marvel movies do. The plot is too convoluted, diminishing the strength and beauty of the characters, as well as the meaningful themes. Similarly, the plot following the U.S. FBI is just random and useless — to be honest, I used these scenes as a brief inter-

Fall in love with hope

physical disabilities

By Gabriela Salazar

A poignant story that chronicles the tales of a rebellious gang of dying kids. “I Fell In Love With Hope” by Lancali is a beautifully

written book that left me with a box of tissues ready at hand. This book offers a newfound outlook on life, opening my eyes to its many wonders and cruelties.

I was initially hesitant to read this story, because it contains numerous trigger warnings. However, as the book progressed, the vivid depictions of the narrator Sam and their group of friends living in a hospital compelled me to read further. Sam describes each of their friends with colorful language and paints a beautiful picture of the other characters, which helps readers grasp the illnesses they are battling.

Lancali’s ability to make me hold my breath with each turn of the page is astounding. I was amazed by how she channeled her own experiences and relationships to weave a story that dives into mental and physical illness — including invisible struggles that are often universal, such as lingering trauma.

She described anxiety, depression and many other struggles that thousands of people across the world endure. Through her story, Lan-

‘Enola Holmes 2’ is a must-watch this season

By Madhavi Karthik

I never thought I would say these words, but in this instance, the sequel outshines its predecessor. The Netflix original “Enola Holmes 2” accomplishes this rare feat through enthralling mysteries woven into hilariously sticky situations.

The sequel picks up a few months after the original, with Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) improving her sleuthing skills by opening a detective agency and investigating the disappearance of a matchstick factory worker.

Rather than creating yet another cookie-cutter mystery movie, the film takes a historical fiction approach. By incorporating characters based on real life figures

like Sarah Chapman, an advocate for gender equality and labor rights, this show sheds light on the landmark Matchgirls Strike in Victorian-era London.

This historical event marks the principal movement advocating for women’s rights during the Industrial Revolution, according to Cosmopolitan.

Through such a perspective, I developed a deeper connection to the characters and their backgrounds by gaining exposure to the stories of history’s hidden figures.

Throughout the movie, Brown flawlessly executes her persona as a spunky, independent detective, and she illustrates the struggles women in the professional world face on a daily basis.

The stylistic decisions the actress makes, such as speaking directly to the audience, engaged me from the start of the movie.

As soon as Enola discovers a lead, she glances at the camera with a knowing look, cluing the audience in on her progress and transporting viewers from their couches to Baker Street.

I found myself attempting to solve the case alongside her and felt as if I was involved in all of Enola’s shenanigans, from learning how to ballroom dance to fleeing a murder scene after being wrongfully convicted.

What makes this sequel particularly special is the exceptional character development. Unlike the first movie, we see more of Sherlock and Enola’s relationship.

Although Enola is initially hesitant to accept help from others when trying to make a name for herself, she eventually learns to let her guard down as she grows closer to her brother.

As a younger sibling who desperately wanted to escape my brother’s shadow, their relationship arc resonated with me and made me reminisce about how far my brother and I have come. Their wholesome sibling-detective dynamic makes me smile even when they are in the midst of chaos.

Whether you are looking for a thrilling mystery or a feel-good watch, I cannot recommend “Enola Holmes 2” enough.

“Enola Holmes 2.” Grade: A+. Rated PG. Watch on Netflix.

In the newest addition to the Marveluniverse,womenofcolor cometogetherandtakethelead. (PhotofromDisney)

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Grade: B+. Rated PG-13. Watch in theaters.

cali helps readers feel less alone in their experiences and casts light on hope, encouraging them to continue fighting. Her characters have endings that show the cruelness of death, but also emphasize the wonderful memories that life allows you to cherish.

Topics about mental health resonate with many people, especially teenagers like me. In my past experience, letting yourself drown in your own regrets only traps and harms you. Isolating yourself prevents you from connecting with the people you love and care about or the rest of the world.

The book and characters illuminate on the message that everyone has their battles. This was a warm reminder that I can always turn to loved ones and found family each step of the way. I can feel not ok sometimes, and that’s ok.

Ultimately, I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone in the world who is struggling or looking to be educated on mental and physical disablities. The story has shown me that in a world this big, there is always hope.

“I

Hope.” Grade: A+. Buy on Amazon.

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ carries on legacy of Chadwick Boseman

Fell in Love With

Soccer sparks character growth

Senior athletes reflect on meaningful experiences

By Macy Li

When he was 6 years old, senior Daniel Lee uncovered a passion for soccer — first playing recreationally, and then with a club. Through the years, he said he has gained a series of valuable skills, such as discipline and a strong work ethic.

As the co-captain of the varsity soccer team, Lee said he has had the opportunity to cultivate these two skills, which empower him to step outside of his comfort zone.

“As an athlete, there have definitely been times when you really have to overexert yourself physically and mentally,” Lee, a midfielder, said. “Pushing yourself and your body to the limit, especially during practices, translates to games. [This shows] how successful you can be if you really work hard.”

By expanding his boundaries, Lee said he has gained confidence and learned to take risks, both as a student and an athlete. Outside of soccer, Lee said he is eager to pursue various academic and extracurricular opportunities.

Like Lee, senior Leo Janson said he started playing soccer at a young age, which equipped him with strong communication skills. Sharing co-captain responsibilities, Janson said he provides his teammates with feedback to help

them improve. By voicing his opinions and offering others guidance, he said he can ensure his team’s success.

As a defensive player on the team and after years of experience, senior Justin Hwang said he has learned the power of collaboration and adaptability.

“In the past 10 years, I’ve had at least five or six different head coaches, and there’s always different teammates there,” Hwang said. “It’s important to be able to still play and work side by side with other people, even when you’re in a different group.”

Hwang’s teamwork skills have enabled him to make positive contributions to campus wide organizations like robotics, he said. When participating in robotics, his top priority is effectively fitting into a larger group, he said. This dedication translates to his soccer games and shapes him into a valuable team member.

“I’m not the one scoring goals, but I’m okay with that,” Hwang said. “My job is to prevent the other team [from scoring]. So there’s a separation of jobs there, and I do mine the best I can.”

Athletes juggle sports and academics

Players discuss mental health difficulties

By Anderson Picone and Mackie Vu

With practices running two hours daily and games on a weekly basis, student-athletes are more susceptible to mental health issues, according to Embark Mental Health.

In an effort to improve his well-being, frosh-soph cross-country runner Ido Halevy said he emphasizes time management when working through his busy schedule.

“One of the obstacles as an athlete is maintaining your grades, but you have to be persistent,” Halevy, a sophomore, said. “If you have two tests that day, you still have to find a way to fit practice into your schedule.”

However, girls varsity tennis player, Karen Zhang said it can be difficult for her to make time in her schedule due to missing classes for games, forcing her to learn material in a compressed time frame. On top of the academic commit-

ments student-athletes take on, injuries further add to their stress, according to the Sports Science Institute. In fact, athletes’ emotional responses include lack of motivation, irritation and sadness.

“I’ve gotten myself injured and it creates a lot of stress because you come home late and you can’t do your homework,” Zhang said. “Sometimes, I sit on my bed with Icy Hot on my legs and I just cry.”

Despite the myriad of psychological repercussions athletes experience, USC sports psychologists reported that stigma surrounding mental health in athletics is prevalent, hindering per sonal growth – a senti ment that girls junior varsity field hockey and varsity basket ball player Danica Lim said she reso nates with.

“People should understand that athletes who are thought of as ‘jocks’ still have soft sides,” Lim

said. “When it gets rough for us, you can’t tell us to suck it up.”

Although participating in athletics poses challenges for students, Halevy said he will continue to run cross country because of the team atmosphere and his overall enjoyment of running.

“Playing a sport is not always going to be great,” Halevy said. “Sometimes you want to quit, but I think playing sports makes a better person because it forces me to learn to balance my time and suc-

Sprinting to the next level

By Erin Loh and Rajiv Venkatesh

Senior Aaliyah Bustamante has played soccer since she was 5 years old, but never planned on committing to a Division III school. However, after visiting the facilities and members of the women’s soccer team at Chapman University, Bustamante changed her mind. Now, Bustamante is Chapman’s top recruit from the class of 2023.

“I honestly did not want to go to Chapman at all. D3 has a stigma behind it, like ‘Oh, it’s not as good of a level of soccer,’ or ‘There’s no money,’” Bustamante said. “But when I was on my official visit, the team was super welcoming and that really pushed me to make my decision.”

Bustamante said playing soccer at Chapman will allow her to balance her work and social life. Additionally, it guarantees she will play her freshman year, which served as a large incentive for her, since these opportunities are not often offered at Division I schools.

Girls soccer is known for its early recruitment process and Bustamante has been in contact with college coaches since her freshman year. Part of the process involves attending showcases, where potential recruits play against each other under the careful observation of college coaches to see if they are a good fit for the program.

Soccer has been an integral part of Bustamante’s life and has allowed her to develop skills from leadership to self discipline, she said.

“Soc - cer surrounded me with people who had the same mindset as me — people who prioritize their academics in addition to sports,” Bustamante said. “My passion soccer gave me the motivation and ambition to achieve the next level.”

Qatar’s controversial journey with FIFA

By Niyatee Jain

COLUMN — The FIFA World Cup is one of the largest sporting events in the world, with each game drawing in an estimated 191 million viewers, according to Statista.

Countries vie for the opportunity to host the coveted event, and in December 2010, FIFA announced that the host would be Qatar, the first Middle Eastern country to do so.

Since then, however, the country has been involved in major controversies, leaving many wondering if Qatar was the right choice to begin with.

After winning the bid, many claims arose about Qatar bribing officials for the right to host, though investigators never found concrete proof, according to Al Jazeera. Then, when construction for the seven new stadiums started, Amnesty International reported multiple human rights violations, including unfair wages and hostile work environments in 2013.

The Qatari government changed its policies regarding laborers in 2017 by establishing a minimum wage, but nothing

drastically improved the workers’ conditions, according to Al Jazeera.

In addition, the first Qatari stadium was built in 2016, three years after concerns about workers’ treatment arose and three years before Qatar abolished the kafala system, a sponsorship system created due to the demand for cheap labor in the Gulf Coast.

It is appalling how much Qatar does not care for its workers, and FIFA should have intervened.

Furthermore, soccer is known for its inclusivity, and how it brings the world together. It is irrational to hold the World Cup in a country where discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is pervasive.

Though we should recognize foreign customs and laws, the right to love is a

fundamental human right and should be legal everywhere in the world.

While some protesters have not faced repercussions for wearing rainbow-colored items, according to Associated Press, FIFA should take into account the host countries’ laws and select a host that fosters an inclusive environment to ensure fans of all backgrounds can safely enjoy this long awaited experience.

In 2026, the World Cup will span three North American countries: the United States, Mexico and Canada.

While games will be held in already-built stadiums and same-sex marriage is legal in all three countries, they should ensure other problems similar to Qatar’s do not arise. Because in the end, soccer is not just about the game, but also about uniting the world.

In sixth grade, senior Spencer Ye chose to run track and field over playing basketball, leading to a seven-year journey which culminated in his commitment to run at Johns Hopkins University, a Division III school.

During the commit process, Ye said he filled out a number of questionnaires and then waited for coaches to get back to him. Once they did, he visited those schools and continued talking with coaches for a couple of weeks until they eventually offered him the opportunity to commit.

“I am really looking forward to getting to run with a bunch of new people,” Ye said. “In high school, it’s the same people all four years, so I’m looking forward to meeting new people and also getting better equipment.”

Ye said his longtime cross-country and track and field coach, Kenrick Sealy, influenced his running journey immensely. Ye said he began working with Sealy after his sixth grade track season, after re cieving an invitation to at tend Sealy’s annual sum mer camp. From there, Sealy has helped him push through men tal and physical struggles and continue training.

“Coach Sealy gives me the free dom to train the way I want to,” Ye said. I really think he has helped me get to where I am today.”

Ye said he attributes his success to a focus on bothacademicsandrunning.(Photoscourtesyof SpencerYe)

KarenZhangstrugglestobalancehertwolivesofschooland tennis.(PhotobyAndersonPiconeandMackieVu)

Duringsoccerpractice,Leepassestheballtohisteammates.Ontheright,Jansonpracticesdribblingthe ball.(PhotosbyVeronicaZhao)

Having started soccer at age five, Bustamante said she looks forward to playing at a collegiate level.(PhotoscourtesyofAaliyahBustamante)

Bustamante commits to soccer at Chapman

Ye commits to track at Johns Hopkins

Boys Water Polo

Girls Water Polo Golf Volleyball

2-19 5-7

15-19 3-15

FALL FINISH

Football Field Hockey Tennis

4-7

SOPHOMORE

Gardner said he achieved his goal time at states and enjoyed his experience at the meet.

However, there also were some challenges, as the course was longer than he was accustomed to, and said he was racing against stronger competitors.

2-11-4

JUNIOR NAMED

5-7

STATES

STATES

After placing ninth at CCS League Championships, cross country runner Evan Gardner qualified for states, which took place on Nov. 26. Gardner placed 112th out of 180th, running five kilometers in 16 minutes and 44 seconds.

This was the sophomore’s first time running cross country.

“This is the first big thing I’ve ever done,” Gardner said. “The whole idea of going by myself was a little frightening. I’m racing against everyone older than me, bigger than me and definitely faster than me.”

The runner said he hopes more people will compete in states next year, as one of the primary issues the team faced was the prevalence of injuries, which Gardner is optimistic will improve next year.

Reflecting on his time in the sport, Gardner said running has taught him persistence, and has encouraged him to do better next year.

“I want to be able to improve on my time, and get better placed,” the athlete said. “You just have to believe you can get there, and your hard work will get you there.”

By Niyatee Jain

ella Fourkas received the honor of all All-League All-Star, an award determined by the league’s coaches, for her performance this past fall season. Fourkas said it was estimated that she blocked 120 goals and only let in 25.

Fourkas, a junior, began playing field hockey in her freshman year. Wanting to gain more experience, the goalie decided to join a club field hockey team in Los Gatos, which helped her become more comfortable with the sport, she said.

Since the team moved to a higher division, Fourkas said receiving the award was especially meaningful because she said the team had to play better defensively.

“It was a very unexpected thing for me,” the athlete said. “We played in the upper leagues this year, so I was really scared to be the goalie. Last year, I was a sophomore on the team and the other goalie was a senior, so I was [nervous] to take on the mantle.”

Next year, Fourkas’ goal is to have no more than two goals scored on her.

“I can take what I’ve learned and help new people coming up to varsity or other goalies who are just learning to play because we don’t really get any training,” Fourkas said. “That’s what I’d like to be able to help [my teammates] with.”

THE ATHLETE

was the team’s youngest player, leading to older players guiding her throughout the season. This year, Cao said she wants to do the same.

By Faith Watters

When junior Elaine Cao joined her middle school’s basketball team in sixth grade, she embarked on her basketball journey. Now, as a point guard, she is one of the stars on the Homestead varsity girls basketball team.

Starting at a young age, Cao started playing basketball rec reationally at home, sparking her interest to join the basket ball team in middle school.

Through basketball, Cao has gained confidence and built life skills.

“I was really quiet in elementary school and I wouldn’t reach out to people, so playing on a team has really helped build those people skills,” the point guard said.

Last year, Cao

“I was in the position that some of these other girls are in right now: feeling too scared to make mistakes and take risks,” Cao said. “I’m hoping that this year, I can help to be a leader and make this transition easier and faster for our newcomers.”

Some of Cao’s favorite memories come from bonding with her teammates, boosting her love for the sport.

“Last season, we got invited to our varsity coach’s wedding,” Cao said. “We spent the whole day together dressed up, and that was pretty fun.”

Throughout challenging moments, Cao said it was her teammates and coach who helped her continue.

“The hardest part [for me] was coming back from COVID,” Cao said. “But I was able to persevere through it because the people that I was surrounded with really helped me out, especially my coach.”

Varsity field hockey goalie Gabri-

Photos by Epitaph Staff

Ashlynne Larkin photo courtesy of Ashlynne Larkin

Senior Jordan Rucker

Sophomore Danica Lim

Junior Bridget Swineford

Senior Audrey Ip

Senior Ashlynne Larkin

Senior Tarini Maram

Junior Carter Beitel

By Niyatee Jain

Photo by Anushruti Nagarajan

Photo by Faith Watters

Waltzing into winter celebrations

Fitted for the frost

Delving into winter fashion

“Winter fashion means wearing whatever it takes to stay warm. I love a cute sweater and some accessories.”

“Winter fashion to me is layering. I usually style oversized sweaters with dress pants or skirts.”

- Genesis Montes (11)

Campus traditions

Students, staff share favorite memories

“The admin team holds a staff dinner and white elephant gift [exchange]. We [also] have a Christmas party for the families of staff members. I’ve had to [play] Santa a few

- Greg Giglio Principal

“I like to skate and [practice] tricks with my friends during winter break. We go to downtown Sunnyvale and skate around, [which is] really fun.”

- Cristian Rendon Rivas (10)

“During the holidays, I love to be at home with my family and our two Sia mese cats. We cook way more food than we should eat. My girls are great bakers and my husband makes the main dish.”

- Clare Dee ArtTeacher

“[My family and I] always go to Mt. Bachelor, Oregon, for skiing, and the [car ride] is eight hours of movies. But sometimes, we will sing ‘100 Bottles of Beer on the Wall’ three times in a row, just because we can.”

- Julia Lohman (10)

Winter Checklist

Scan the QR code to complete this winter checklist

Spirited celebrations

Exploring holiday festivities

Christmas

“My family and I celebrate Christmas by put ting up the tree and decorating our house. Each year, we take an annual Christmas photo and send it to friends and relatives and also keep

Hannukah

“Hannukah is a very exciting and festive time of year when my family and I gather to light the menorah and eat together. We usually go to different peoples’ homes and eat food.”

- Shira Kadar (11)

Día de los Reyes

“Three Kings Day is a day when my family and I gather at my grandma’s house. I feel joyful when we find the baby Jesus in

Scan the QR code to listen to a playlist for cozy nights.

SEOYOUNG HWANG, ANUSHRUTI NAGARAJAN, HELEN TAM AND HARSHITHA

From left to right: Aditi Ghosh, Libi Lapede and Bella Park

From left to right: Genesis Montes and Nadija Mujkanovic