May 2022

This issue of The Lariat is themed to the board games and specifically the classic game ‘The Game of Life’. With the cover showing the wheel.

Dear readers, With great excitement, we present to you the final issue of the 2021-22 school year, themed “The Game of Life” and inspired by everyone’s favorite classic board games. This issue is the very first our incoming Editors-in-Chief are leading, and we think they did a terrific job. Emily, Olivia, Orian and Nikki, you all crushed it!

It is also the very last issue of The Lariat any of us will contribute to, and on that bittersweet note, we want to say our final goodbye to our excellent staff, adviser and readers.

The Lariat has been a significant part of our high school experience, and we could not be more grateful to our current staff, and the many staff members that have already left or graduated and shaped our time on the newspaper. We also want to thank our incredible adviser, Ms. Patterson, for being a great mentor, teacher and role model for us. There will always be a special place in our hearts for The Lariat, and we can’t wait to see how you all continue to grow, thrive, and seek the truth. We love you all. Sincerely (and finally), Elena Ashburn, Chris Gomes and Kayla Gates

Kayla Gates Managing Editor

Kayla Gates is The Lariat’s managing editor and has been involved in the newspaper since freshman year of high school. Gates is primarily in charge of The Lariat’s fundraising, financing and editing.

Gates is highly appreciated on the staff and works hard while handling rigorous academic courses and managing clubs. She is the president of National Honor Society (NHS) and National English Honors Society (NEHS). Unlike most members of our staff, Gates was recruited as a freshman without having to take Journalism 1. Her talented writing skills stood out to adviser Fallan Patterson.

“Kayla has been with me all four years that I’ve been advising The Lariat and is the only freshman I have approved to be on my staff and it’s by far one of the best decisions I have ever made as an advisor,” Patterson said. “ Kayla is a calming presence in a newsroom often filled with chaos.”

No matter the circumstance, Gates is always on time and organized. She will be greatly missed and will advance her education at the University of Florida to major in Biology. We wish you the best of luck!

Elena Ashburn

Print Editor-in-Chief

Since the beginning of sophomore year, senior and current Print Editor-in-chief Elena Ashburn had discovered her passion for journalism. Throughout her years of high school, she achieved the unachievable in and outside of school.

As for journalism, she is the CCHS Silver Knight Journalism nominee and was a Designer of the Year Finalist for the Florida Student Press Association (FSPA) Spring Competition. Ashburn has designed the Lariat since April and published her first issue in May of 2021. Many that have worked with Ashburn look up to her talent and skill.

“I have learned a lot about journalistic writing and designing from Elena,” Head Editor and 2022-2023 Print Editor-in-Chief Emily Moreno said. “She’s a really great friend and I definitely have big shoes to fill next year and I’m gonna miss her a lot.”

Apart from her incredible journalistic achievements, she takes part in CCHS theater as the recording secretary for Troupe 0784 and has been involved in every production since she joined the school in her sophomore year.

We will miss her energetic personality and hardworking drive on The Lariat staff and wish her the best. She plans to major in Political Science and Journalism at the University of Florida and hopefully to transfer to Cornell University in the future. Wishing Elena the best!

Gomes Online Editor-in-Chief

Senior and Online

Chris Gomes has been involved in journalism since sophomore year, soon unraveling his inner passion for journalism and continuing the class throughout his high school years. Gomes is constantly putting his best foot forward to provide a strong work ethic and a positive environment for our staff.

Gomes had decided to be involved in the social media aspect of the CCHS newspaper. He believes that social media has such an overwhelming aspect of the lives of modern society to gather news and information. From posting articles on The Lariat website and posting informational events on social media, including Instagram and Twitter, the staff’s hardwork is sure to be recognized from students around CCHS.

“I’m glad that my articles are posted online,” staff writer Malia Lahey said. “It gives information to peers around our school about ongoing events and thanks to Chris it makes the time that I spend on my articles feel appreciated.”

Gomes’ presence and perseverance will be surely missed. He will be continuing his academic career at the University of Florida and majoring in Psychology. We wish you good luck Chris; our staff is so proud of you!

BY ASHLYN COHEN

Editor-in-chief

Chris

Illustrations by Lily Mitchell

Letter from the Advisor

This year, I’m closing my chapter at Cooper City High and relocating to the Atlanta, Georgia area. This also means that after four years, I am handing The Lariat off to a new adviser.

This is a bittersweet moment for me because The Lariat has been not only my passion project but it has held my heart and was the home of some of my favorite memories as a teacher. It’s where I learned to let go of expectations and where students proved to me how much they care about their school, community and the world around them. My staff writers confirmed how informed and involved teenagers really are and that their only limitations are the ones society places on them. It’s because of this I know I’m leaving The Lariat in great hands.

Thank you to my past staffers, the OG’s, for being guinea pigs as I found my way as an adviser, which is NOTHING like being a professional journalist. I was quickly humbled but I think I found my way. A particular shout out to my original EIC’s: Alex, Genna and Abbie. I couldn’t have survived my first year without you all. You helped set the tone for my era as adviser and I will forever be grateful.

To Arielle and Emma - we made the best of it through Covid; you all deserved better but I hope you remember your time at The Lariat as fondly as I think of your contributions and efforts. You only made The Lariat stronger.

To Chris, Elena and Kayla - Thank you for guiding The Lariat through the return to campus and helping to transition the new staff into the next adventure without us. Your input and impact has been immeasurable.

To Emily, Nikki, Olivia and Orian - I’m saddened not to see the amazing things you’re about to do with The Lariat but I hoped I’ve prepared you well. I know you’ll elevate the paper; you’re too talented for mediocre.

Thank you always for reading and supporting The Lariat, Fallan Patterson

The Lariat Adviser

2018 - 2022

Letter from the Incoming Editors

To the 2021-22 Editors-in-Chief and Ms. Patterson, We all thank you dearly for your wisdom. We have each learned a lot from you all this past year, and are dreading the day you all spread your wings and trade in your cowboy lassos to become Gators. We know you all will do incredible things, and you have all inspired us to become better writers, leaders and mentors to the new staff members.

Elena, your energy is absolutely unmatched. You inspire us all each and every single day with your passion and incomparable devotion to all that you do. Your laugh can light up the entire classroom, and we will miss seeing your smile in our newsroom.

Chris, we thank you for putting up with this gang of girls. Your calming presence and kind advice is something that we all strive to model after. We cherish all the memories we’ve made and will miss your sense of humor.

Kayla, you are so underrated in all that you do both inside and outside of the newspaper. You are so multi-talented and have undeniable amounts of patience that we can only hope to recreate next year.

Ms. Patterson, the incoming EICs cannot thank you enough for the dedication that you have shown to The Lariat. We are tremendously proud of how far we have come under your guidance and we could not have done it without you. You have connected us all to our journalistic roots in unfathomable ways. You have been a positive force on us all as journalists, writers, editors and most importantly, people. We are thankful that you’ll get the opportunity to spread your love and talent to more students. Atlanta is beyond lucky to have you.

Thank you all for being such an impact in our journalism careers and lives. We have connected to you four on so many levels and the thought of you all leaving is incredibly bittersweet. You have never hesitated to answer our endless questions or to listen to our endless ramblings. You have served as amazing role models to us all and we hope to be able to live up to the incredibly high standard you have set. We will miss our older brother and sisters next year. We wish you the absolute best,

What really happens inside of CCHS?

No school is perfect, and while some may try to be, there will always be malfunctions that will inhibit things from going right. Despite these flaws, all schools are rated based on staterequired tests, graduation rates and how well they prepare students for college. Most would say that CCHS has been an excellent school since it was first built in 1971, which explains why CCHS is rated as top 6.8% in the nation by US News.

Still, CCHS is known for its rigorous classes, diverse curriculum and organized system. Yet, there are some malfunctions that few know about.

A small concern is the school bell not ringing to dismiss students to their next class. Many have noticed something strange with the bells either ringing at the wrong time or simply not ringing at all. This causes students to not know when to leave their current class and rely on teachers to tell them when to go.

“I don’t think the bell rings properly in the 3900 [building],” sophomore Brinaya Bastien said. “I don’t remember hearing them ring on Monday.”

World History and Geography teacher Jenier Marmolejos agrees and feels that there should be ways to ensure the bells ring.

“I think particularly in the case of the bell, checking the equipment before would prevent it,” Marmolejos said. “I think that conducting a check of whether things are working right before we all arrive will definitely prevent that from happening.”

Another malfunction is the exceedingly small number of substitute teachers available at CCHS. With teachers contracting COVID-19, quitting, retiring or going on maternity leave, substitute teachers are vastly needed.

Some may remember the “devious lick” that occurred a few months ago. This trend had students either stealing or vandalizing school bathrooms for likes and follows on social media. The “devious lick” trend went too far and had one of the floors flooding with water from the bathrooms, causing some students not being able to go to their class.

“A flaw I’ve noticed is when the devious lick trend caused students to destroy a bathroom to flood elevators and I was unable to go to any of my classes in that building,” freshman Madison Smith said. “These malfunctions can be stopped [or] prevented by students taking responsibility and thinking of others before they do these actions.”

COVID-19 continues to create problems as some students say that it’s difficult to obtain knowledge and recall how to prepare for exams towards the end of the year.

“Especially coming from last year, being online, I feel [that] for students it’s been hard for them to incorporate what they’re learning [into] actually doing good on these tests,” sophomore Alia Salim said.

CCHS also lacks a variety of seating during lunch. Due to this limited seating, students must rush to to grab the best table for themselves and their friends. While most students are able to get a table or they decide to walk around the campus, there’s always some students who have no other choice but to sit on the grass or concrete

during lunch.

“As a school we should try to find a way to make it more accessible for everyone to have more seating,” Peer Counseling and Early Childhood Education teacher Helise Gailboord said. “Maybe we can raise more funds.”

One last malfunction would be the umbrellas on the tables during school lunches. Placed at random, these umbrellas may tempt many students to brake or destroy them for fun.

Despite malfunctions and mistakes, most say that CCHS has turned out to be a good school giving bright futures to all of its students.

After COVID-19, not having many substitute teachers, bells not ringing, limited lunch seating and the “devious lick” trend and others, the question everyone might ask themselves is: what school malfunction could possibly happen next?

BY JENNA HEDRICK

Nieed Guillaume was once a high school student at Nova High School who focused on nothing but rigorous and challenging classes, striving for a bright future. Being a high achieving student in athletics and academics, it was his main priority to indulge in many Advanced Placement (AP) courses junior year and score straight A’s to meet his dream university: University of Florida.

After realizing one quarter into the year that this would be the first time his gradebook would not see only 90 percent and above, immense fear and stress began to cloud Guillaume’s mind.

“I won’t have a successful future later in life,” Guillaume said.

Now, at 19 years old and enrolled at the University of Florida, Guillaume concluded that this was not a true statement, not even in the slightest.

The experience of AP classes can be frightening to many, especially when not knowing what one has signed themself up for. Students across the country find themselves with a large weight upon their shoulders when it is time to start prioritizing college choices and keeping a good grade point average.

Pressure of academics can spawn from several varied factors, ranging from parental expectations or just desperately wanting to secure a spot at a prestigious school.

Before high school students make the decision to take part in a multitude of AP courses, they should be informed on what is to come.

“AP courses themselves are very beneficial, since they provide college credits and are great for your college application,” Nova High School senior Pascal Pratt said. “With that being said, it is very likely that the workload coming your way is definitely not what you typically receive.”

Pratt is one of many students that are tackled by loads of stress every year during AP enrollment when their grades drop to a stage that they aren’t used to seeing, regardless of what specific course is being taken.

This is an experience most high school students have when taking part in high level classes. In fact, some students can average a letter grade lower in AP courses compared to what they had prior due to the rigor.

“To be completely honest, seeing a B for the first time in my gradebook was very concerning for me. I had always been used to having near perfect grades,” Flanagan High School senior Daniel Radescu said. “It turns out, I still received spots in most of the schools I aimed to get into.”

While academic achievement can bring upon stress and anxiety towards the minds of students currently striving for success, colleges take into consideration the difficulty of AP courses too. Offers and acceptance of applications can still go through when a student is keeping good grades in non-AP classes and passing grades in AP courses, even if they are not

straight A’s.

“Something that the curriculum has taught me really is that it is always better to get a B in an Advanced Placement class than to take a standard one and completely ace it,” Western High School senior Ashleigh Fasciana said.

Apart from worrying about performance and academic achievement in higher level courses, there are also students in AP that find it important to have a healthy studying routine.

“School does tend to take lots of time out of my week, especially when taking more rigorous classes,” CCHS junior Calvin Cousins said. “Having a healthy mind always leads to better results in work. I personally get an hour of homework done every weekday, so I don’t have to worry about procrastination.”

According to Cousins and his experience in AP enrollment, spacing out time can be very important to stay sharp mentally.

Peter Tytell, an AP Calculus teacher at Nova High School, believes that AP enrolling students should take a deep breath and not try to see so far into the future based on current performance.

“I have witnessed tons of students in my class that assume if they aren’t completely aceing each exam that comes their way, they are doomed for later on,” Tytell said. “It is just simply not true.”

On top of receiving help from teachers in class, regardless of whether it is through asking questions or talking after the session is over, there are other resources to take advantage of for help as well.

Here at CCHS, tutoring is held after school to help students in subjects that may be struggling in. Students on campus are encouraged to request assistance and attend tutoring sessions if there is any circumstance where they are falling behind.

BY DIMITRIS MELETIS

How the roads diverge for high school seniors

Atypical Roads

“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both”- Robert Frost (The Road Not Taken)

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost is a perfect analogy for the tumultuous time of college decisions for a senior; it’s a time in which the graduating class must leave the peers that they have been accustomed to for new ones.

But it’s similarly important to recognize the “roads” graduates are choosing to take. Some have found their interests outside of going the traditional postsecondary school route, whether that be a trade school or joining the armed forces, many have decided to not opt for the path that has been indoctrinated into us since middle school: attending a four-year university.

But overall, the undergraduate college enrollment rates are on the decline. There are approximately 16.6 million undergraduate students nationwide, which is 6.6% less than the last census.

However, CCHS has an overwhelming rate of students planning on attending a four-year university.

“I have always dreamed of being a Gator and pursuing a career in medicine,” senior and incoming freshman at the University of Florida Danielle Robins said. “Going to college allows for me to begin my medical journey as I am majoring in Neuroscience on the pre-med track. I also couldn’t pass up the opportunity to go to my dream school!”

The “road” to college, however, is very winding. There are many factors that determine one’s success, some of which are just beyond their control. Whether

this may be finances or other personal reasons that may render it impossible for them to be away from home for extended periods of time.

“I’d like to go to a 4-year university because it would give me those essential connections for the future,” junior Jake Adams said. “It also increases my chances for a more successful career path.”

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

For many students, this mantra applies to college as well. In which the “one less traveled by,” otherwise known as alternate paths than the popular four-year university, is the path that will make “all the difference” to them and their future endeavors.

There are also other undeniable factors that lead to people being interested in “less traveled” paths, for instance, it may work better with one’s preferred learning style.

“I am very interested in trade school because it’s a whole different experience than college, you’ll get to meet more kids that have the same mindset as you and it isn’t all about textbooks and online work,” junior Jake Monroe said. “To me, trade school is mostly hands-on work rather than just trying to pass the class like in a college.”

There is, undeniably, a certain attitude about college. Many students feel pressure to go to a four-year university; they may feel that a degree is a symbol of success, or there may be residual pressure from their parents or other outside influences.

The students’ sphere of

influence is what defines them. It is commonly said that “birds of a feather flock together.”

But with few examples to model after, it makes the idea of wanting to branch out from the norm even more difficult.

For teenagers and young adults, breaking the norm of conformity is rare; so without guidance, many may fall into the proverbial cycle of unhappiness in college.

It’s cyclic to see people enter a university for the wrong reasons and then fail to follow through on their original “road.” But if this mentality of clinging to a four-year university was broken, then thousands of dollars, and potential damages will be prevented.

“I shall be telling this with a sigh, somewhere ages and ages hence…”

BY NICOLE NADLER

With June rolling around quickly, seniors across the country have begun to receive their acceptance and rejection letters from the vast amount of schools that they’ve applied to. From the start of junior year students are told to start planning out their future and look into where they want to go. After all, it can be a very long and stressful process. With some students getting into Ivy Leagues or just staying local, here’s what seniors at CCHS have to say about it.

Man on the Street

BY ORIAN TZIPORA HAROSH

Dylan Bober: Yale University

“I'd definitely recommend students carefully pick what schools they're applying to, in order to make sure they keep their list at a comfortable size. A lot of kids over applied to schools, and weren't able to focus their efforts as a result.”

Skylar

“I officially committed to Bentley University which is near the Boston area. Applying to colleges was difficult, but once I got over the hurdle, I better understood the process. After getting all my decisions, it was really easy to choose bentley because it offered the best academics for my major and was is a great area near the city.”

“So happy that I got into USF! I’m very grateful to all of my teachers and classmates that made this possible. Can’t wait to be a bull for the next four years.”

Kiara Ryan: University of Florida

“I’m going to UF and I’m super excited for new opportunities, to meet new people and enter a new stage of my life.”

Micaela Prieto : University of South Florida

Damion: Bentley Universtiy

Broward County’s dramatic decrease of substitute teachers

Broward County’s dramatic decrease of substitute teachers

“If the teacher doesn’t show in the next 15 minutes, class is over.” That’s a saying that has been heard by students significantly more this year.

Students have been left outside classrooms after the bell rings in search of teacher guidance. Many have been questioned by security guards, mainly confused that a crowd of teenagers is hanging outside a teacher’s door. Usually, the answer lies with the substitute teacher shortages at Broward County Schools.

“Supposedly, if the teacher doesn’t show in the next 15 minutes, class is over.” That’s a saying that has been heard by students significantly more this year.

other choice but to rely on other teachers’ help to provide coverage for these students.

“Because of the recent shortage, when a fellow coworker of mine had to leave on a last-minute family emergency because we had no one to take over the class, she had no other choice but to rely on me,” Griffin Elementary School second grade teacher Staci Alderman said. “It was extremely chaotic and frustrating having to handle around forty students in one room.”

Students have been left outside classrooms after the bell rings in search of teacher guidance. Many have been questioned by security guards, mainly confused that a crowd of teenagers is hanging outside a teacher’s door. Usually, the answer lies with the substitute teacher shortages at Broward County Schools.

Because of these extreme shortages, many teachers and staff have experienced being called in during their planning period to cover for a class.

Because of these extreme shortages, many teachers and staff have experienced being called in during their planning period to cover for a class.

“My class was left outside in the hallway for a while and no one knew what was going on,” freshman Rachel Jacob said. “A security guard approached us asking what the situation was and no one in my class knew how to respond besides that we had no teacher or sub. But we had the teacher next door take us in during his planning period and I felt bad. It caused him to have to do extra attendance and deal with all the kids that needed passes from him to leave so they could finish tests, from not only his class but from mine.”

For many substitute teachers that have quit or plan on leaving, the main reasons for their absences lie around the COVID-19 pandemic.

apply. During the last two years, it has been reported that all throughout Broward County substitutes were in need to cover the 87% of vacant Teachers. Many principals and teachers have no other choice but to rely on other teachers’ help to provide coverage for these students.

Students’ behavior and attitude toward substitute teachers play a massive role in the lack of subs. Children tend to act out or be disrespectful towards a sub.

The authority established between a new sub and a student has yet to be developed. Therefore, students are much more likely to break normal class rules that would apply if their teacher were present, making the substitute teacher become the classroom punching bag to deal with students’ inappropriate behavior.

“My class was left outside in the hallway for a while and no one knew what was going on,” freshman Rachel Jacob said. “A security guard approached us asking what the situation was and no one in my class knew how to respond besides that we had no teacher or sub. But we had the teacher next door take us in during his planning period and I felt bad. It caused him to have to do extra attendance and deal with all the kids that needed passes from him to leave so they could finish tests, from not only his class but from mine.”

The substitute salary that is disputed amongst subs in Broward County has remained the same as, the hourly rate is $15 an hour. The time and inconvenience are considered stressful, hence the reason why many have opted to leave.

For many substitute teachers that have quit or plan on leaving, the main reasons for their absences lie around the covid pandemic.

“Whenever we are given a sub, the students in the class are always taking advantage of them,” sophomore Lexi Holman said. “The pay that subs receive is not worth the hassle that is given for them to take on, especially if they are risking any illnesses that they can potentially spread to themselves and or their family.”

“Because of the recent shortage, when a fellow coworker of mine had to leave on a last-minute family emergency because we had no one to take over the class, she had no other choice but to rely on me,” Griffin Elementary School second grade teacher Staci Alderman said. “It was extremely chaotic and frustrating having to handle around forty students in one room.” Students’ behavior and attitude toward substitute teachers play a massive role in the lack of subs. Children tend to act out or be disrespectful towards a sub. The authority established between a new sub and a student has yet to be developed. Therefore, students are much more likely to break normal class rules that would apply if their teacher were present, making the substitute teacher become the classroom punching bag to deal with students’ inappropriate behavior.

The substitute salary that is disputed amongst subs in Broward County has remained the same, the hourly rate ranges from $12 to $15 an hour. The time and inconvenience are considered stressful, hence the reason why many have opted to leave.

“For the many years I’ve been working there has been no increase in our pay,” substitute teacher Dr. Newton said. “It’s not worth the hassle, especially with subs that are concerned about COVID-19. It can be hazardous, but every now and then we see a new face, but then don’t see them again.”

The concern for COVID-19 has skyrocketed after the mask mandate was lifted. Catching a virus doesn’t make the job seem as much as a catch to apply. During the last two years, it has been reported that all throughout Broward County substitutes were in need to cover the 87% of vacant teachers according a Sun Sentinel article.

The substitute teachers are extremely limited and understaffed at CCHS. Every now and then, one may see a new face appear, but there haven’t been any new permanent subs. Similar to the lunch staff issue, throughout Broward County, the struggle to find people to work is a challenge, especially with the harsh conditions for anyone making minimum wage to take on.

“For the many years I’ve been working there has been no increase in our pay,” substitute teacher Dr. Newton said. “It’s not worth the hassle, especially with subs that are concerned about COVID-19. It can be hazardous, but every now and then we see a new face, but then don’t see them again.”

“Whenever we are given a sub, the students in the class are always taking advantage of them,” sophomore Lexi Holman said. “The pay that subs receive is not worth the hassle that is given for them to take on, especially if they are risking any illnesses that they can potentially spread to themselves and or their family.”

The substitute teachers are extremely limited and understaffed at CCHS. Every now and then, one may see a new face appear, but there haven’t been any new permanent subs. Similar to the lunch staff issue, throughout Broward County, the struggle to find people to work is a challenge, especially with the harsh conditions for anyone making minimum wage to take on.

“Despite the difficulties, we are fortunate and grateful that we have a handful of substitute teachers that love our school and come here each school day,” Office Manager Idania Rodriguez said. “They have made a positive impact through their hard work and dedication.”

BY ASHLYN COHEN

The concern for covid has skyrocketed after the mask mandate was lifted. Catching a virus doesn’t make the job seem as much as a catch to

Many principals and teachers have no

BY ASHLYN COHEN

As the school year winds down, the stress of teaching is prompting many teachers to not return for the 2022-2023 school year.

“More than half (55%) of members say they are more likely to leave or retire from education sooner than planned,” National Education Association (NEA) members survey reported.

These staggering numbers are the result of many issues that have been further exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I can definitely see where [teachers] are coming from because they are being overworked and also [because of] the low pay they receive,” senior and Early Childhood Education (ECE) student Rosa Avalos said.

However, not all the teachers waited until the end of the year to leave their position.

“It really sucked [be]cause Mr. [Chris] Martin was a great teacher and when he left we were just kind of stuck doing nothing and it really messed with our certifications and grades,” sophomore Hadley Turner said.

Throughout the school year many cases of teachers leaving midyear have been seen at CCHS, which has led to challenges during the year.

“Mr. Martin left at the end of the third quarter and the students were left not having a lot to do. As

department head I research the content they were learning and did my best to create assignments related to their course work and prepare them for industry certification,” ECE teacher Deborah Covard said. “It went as best as it possibly could.”

Teachers face many mentally straining challenges with having to juggle planning lessons, grading, test preparations and being there for their students. It’s clear to see why burnout has been a common trend for teachers. The Research Services of Miami-Dade County estimate that between five and 30 percent of teachers show symptoms of burnout.

“It’s all about the students which it should be,” AICE European and AP World teacher Peggy Wilfong said. “But the burden is on the teachers to make it all about the students and there hasn’t been one thing about teacher mental health.”

The traditional challenges of teaching have been multiplied as the current world problems have translated to the classrooms. Now teachers also run the risk of getting sick by their students and staff members. Another dangerous issue is the rise in school shootings and threats that make the profession a dangerous venture.

“Now you sit and look at corporate America jobs where that person is now safely working at home

in a virtual environment,” Wilfong said. “The risks to be on the job is a burden.”

One of the biggest issues facing the teaching profession is the recurring theme of low pay. The National Education Association Research reported that $80,659 is the average teacher salary in Florida for the 2020-2021 year.

“In our county, teachers do not get a regular increase in pay as the cost-of-living increases,” Covard said. “We negotiate better pay, but it is rarely enough to make a significant difference.”

Apart from driving teachers away from the profession, these issues have culminated resulting in the decrease in younger generations joining the teaching field.

“I’ve always wanted to be a kindergarten teacher because I enjoy being around little kids and planning fun activities for them,” Avalos said. “But the one thing everyone says is that I shouldn’t do it because they don’t get paid well.”

It’s unclear how this teacher shortage is going to affect the next school year and what long term effects it will have on students, but it will likely be an important moment in education history.

BY EMILY MORENO

Record-breaking number of teachers plan to quit

Photo by Melissa Sarosi

Back to SchoolAugust 2021

With the 2021-2022 school year underway, students were eager and uncertain about what this post-pandemic year could look for them.

Many hoped that a sense of normalcy would be restored to the everyday.

“I predict that the school district will push for a lot of activities to be inperson in order to create a sense of normality,” junior

Louise Gong-McGovern said. While others questioned how closely CDC guidelines would be followed.

“I believe that the school is trying their best to keep everyone safe but the social distancing thing is something that is hard to manage,” sophomore Julia Low said.

Senior Step-up Day

Masks Become OptionalNovember 20

Long-awaited by some and dreaded by others, the mask mandate in Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) was officially lifted for all students. Causing a mixed

CCHSCelebratesBlackHistory MonthThroughoutFebruary

Desexualize the Female BodySeptember 2

The end of August marked the beginning of a simple, yet eye-catching schoolwide movement. Students watched as pieces of paper with statements such as “DESEXUALIZE THE FEMALE BODY” sparked objections against the dress code

8th Grade Walkover

reaction from students, with some excited for a return to normalcy.

“It kind of gives a sense of what normal is, towards the end no one was really wearing it [masks] anyways, except for only a few people,” sophomore Jacqueline Cabrera said.

While others felt that it was an unsafe decision.

“I think people are going to be more sick since they kind of stopped building that immune system, so they’re going to get sick faster,” sophomore Daniella Tellez said.

Organized by Multicultural Club, CCHS hosted a wide range of engaging activities in celebration of Black History Month. Competitions and events such as an exhibitionary gala, which allowed for students to express their creative sides through different mediums such as art, music, dance and

While after school town halls, such as the Hear Our Voices meeting with help from The Lariat, allowed for students to ask Broward County officers questions and address issues facing their community. “I wanted to provide a forum that could give students and police the ability to talk with each other, interact with each other, learn from each other [and] discuss important issues,” Multicultural Club sponsor Kevin Fair said. “I really [wanted everyone to] get a different understanding of the [issues in our community].”

DSG Bill - March into law on Parental Rights more commonly “Don’t Say Gay” protest accross around the world.

- at CCHS- one which found supporters in every population.

“...girls are standing up for themselves, having a voice and are making a stand,” junior Jancarlo Rapalo said. “The Broward County school board should be able to change the dress code, we should be able to dress how we want, we are human.”

Devious

Lick - September 16

Sparked by a social media trend and making the local news, CCHS faced a series of thefts and intended malfunctions during the

month of September.

This vandalous behavior was known as the “devious lick” and affected students and staff, just as it had the structures of CCHS.

“Over the past few days, our district has seen evidence of severe vandalism in our bathrooms caused by our own students,” Superintendent

Homecoming Week

Lasting from October 11-16, 2021, CCHS’ annual homecoming week took a turn for the mid-century, as it celebrated its 50th anniversary. Along with the traditional dress-up days, football games and Homecoming Dance, CCHS hosted an alumni- attended

anniversary event. Where alumni were invited back to school to see how the campus had changed and to reminisce about the past.

“The 50 year anniversary was a great success,” AICE Travel and Tourism student Jerry Valdez said.

CCHS students and staff have taken on many challenges during our transition from online to in-person learning. With it, came 180 days of unforgettable memories. From studentled movements, to anniversary celebrations and even global actions, here’s how CCHS played the game of life during the 2021-2022 school year.

BY OLIVIA GIL

March 8 Signed on March 8, 2022, the Rights in Education bill, commonly referred to as the Gay” bill has prompted accross the state and even world.

READ MORE AT: thelariatonline.com

Its aim is to quiet the discussion of gender and sexual identity, by banning it in “primary grade levels that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students.” Causing many to speak out about the detriment this bill could cause to LBGTQ+ youth. “This new law is extremely offensive to the LGBTQ+ community,” CCHS sophomore Drew Hollingsworth said. “We should be progressing instead of going backwards.

Vikie L. Cartwright said.

Celebrates CCHS’ 50th Anniversary - October 16

People should be able to feel comfortable expressing themselves instead of fearing the government.”

Prom is one of the focal point events of senior year and by far the most important

Prom offers a chance for seniors to dress up for one night and show off their inner style that is not revealed on a typical school day. Teachers, administrators, and faculty served as adult chaperones, but also joined in on the celebration that students were a part of.

A return to normalcy for prom signifies a change in circumstance over the last few years. Prom being located off campus is a welcome contrast to the past few years of either no prom or prom being located on

BY CHRIS GOMES

Photos by Shira Aroshas

Media center closing due to state-mandated review of materials

School is not out yet for the summer, but some things have already started shutting down.

The media center, whose plethora of books was once accessible to students, has recently been closed, and according to several CCHS staff members, will remain out of order for the rest of the school year.

Currently, the CCHS media center is closed due to the need for testing proctors. According to Test Coordinator Melissa Megna, the current media clerk, Rosemane Rempart, is assisting with test proctoring. But, Megna posits that after the testing season is over, the media center will remain closed, as the books inside the media center must be reviewed.

“I was speaking to Ms.Megna, who is also the teacher, that is over the media center, and she said that because of the new legislation surrounding how books need to be scrutinized now, they’re gonna have to close the media center,” ESE Support Facilitator Michele Kitman said. “She has to set up a committee, and the committee has to review every book, according to the checklist for the state, and they need to determine whether they keep it and if they have to put it in a locked room.”

Books deemed inappropriate and put in a secure environment will be more difficult for students to access; according to several sources, a student must acquire parent permission before getting their hands on one of these locked books.

These new, stricter rules surrounding book access in school can be attributed to recent legislation in the state of Florida.

In late April, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law the Stop the Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees (WOKE) Act, which restricts what texts a school can have concerning race, as it is aimed at avoiding the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT). There has been an increase in rejections of textbooks by the Florida Department of Education following this law; according to their press release, 41% of books submitted to the adopted list were struck down due to inclusion of CRT or other prohibited material.

But, the Stop WOKE Act isn’t the only piece of legislation that is affecting books in schools. Recently signed into law, House Bill (HB) 1487 allows parents and community members to have more control over books taught in schools and kept in their media centers. It requires the establishment of a system where people can contest the usage of books in a school if they believe it violates standards stated in the Florida Statutes or other Florida laws.

Additionally, Senate Bill (SB) 1300 requires that school media centers publicize their procedures for selecting material for media centers and forces elementary school media centers to disclose a registry of their contents to the public.

CCHS is not the only school struggling with possible book bans. Throughout the state, schools have had books pulled from the shelves of media centers. In fact, according to research done by free-expression organization PEN America over the last year, Florida has the third highest number of incidences of school book bans in all 50 states; it is only outbanned by Texas and Pennsylvania.

The prospect of having book access denied or removed is highly controversial among CCHS staff and students.

“I think any type of censorship unless it’s something that’s brutally offensive should kind of be steered away from and let people make their own opinions about things,” Language Arts teacher Wendy Schauben said. “Pulling books because we assume they might offend someone or teach someone some kind of ethos kind of assumes that people are that shapeable and they’re not.”

Beyond the concept of censorship, many are afraid of the implications of books being pulled from media centers. Since the passage of HB 1487, there have been many instances of complaints being filed against books that address things like LGBTQ+ identities and relationships, as well as racism and the experiences of people of color. Some believe that the law could be used to squash alternative narratives and viewpoints.

“This restriction harms the fostering of a love of reading in students and hinders accessibility,” sophomore Giovanna Dellaria said. “An open library in schools allows access to a plethora of books and the only time out of a student’s day is a few minutes to walk down and back. By closing the school library to scour every book for content the government deems inappropriate, resources are taken away from those who may not have access to them otherwise. Children will no longer be able to see themselves represented in a story, much less access that story in the first place, and that is truly terrible.”

BY ELENA ASHBURN

bans off our books GO TO JAIL

How “inappropriate” is it really?

Turning Red is a film many parents have been saying is “inappropriate,” but that may not be the case. Premiering on March 11, this coming-of-age movie follows 13-year-old Chinese Canadian Meilin (Mei) Lee while she is going through puberty as well as fighting her inner monsters (quite literally).

Mei is at the age where she is finding herself and expressing it through many different ways. Whether it’s her music taste, her friend group or her interest in boys, she is proud of who she is and doesn’t hide it.

While many parents have described this movie as, “adorable,” and “refreshing,” as well as a great representation in many aspects such as, teen girls, characters of color and characters with disabilities, others are less enthusiastic.

Some parents have been criticizing the movie for several reasons such as encouraging kids to rebel, containing periods and their pad counterparts. While the overall agreement about what age kids should watch this movie is 10, some parents have deemed it appropriate for 6-yearolds or kids as young as 3.

To see so many people look down on the idea of children rebelling against their strict but loving parents is slightly surprising due to the fact that this storyline is very popular in kid-centric entertainment. From Ariel going against her father in The Little Mermaid, to Merida always groaning in her mother’s face in Brave, as well as Moana sailing away from home, many of the Disney/Pixar films have a “child disobeys their parent” plot line. Although it’s different when the rebelling is more modernized, it still feels like parents should be less riled up about how Mei acts.

Although some parents have been claiming that this movie contains naked drawings of Mei’s crush, it does not. The most naked drawing we see is when she draws him as a merman. Bare chests and mermen aren’t things we haven’t seen in Disney so why are parents reacting differently when they are shown in this movie?

The one thing less present in other movies is also the one thing less parents have rioted about. The morning Mei discovers she has transformed, she freaks out which causes her mother Ming to believe “the red peony bloomed” and proceeds to grab a trove of all different kinds of pads. In another scene, Ming runs to Mei’s school to bring her more pads. Even though this aspect of the movie has gotten less backlash, some parents are very upset with the fact that menstruating was mentioned in the film. They felt that their son’s “shouldn’t have to see that” despite the fact that it’s a normal part of life and wanted them to leave the periods/hormones to the parents to teach.

This film shows how deep the bond between mother and daughter is and how growing up can affect that bond both in good and bad ways. The movie also gives representation to different groups and can show kids what to expect from puberty.

Photo from Disney

Easy, hard and harder are the three options for classes students are given the opportunity to take. It goes without saying that no student wants to be at level and being in higher level ‘honors’ classes sounds way more appealing.

Students can sign up for at regular classes which some students present a bad interpretation of being ‘not smart enough for honors classes.’

While this is just a stereotype and it’s perfectly okay and more beneficial to take whatever level you are able to comprehend, many students tend believe this.

Students also have the opportunity to move up into honors or AICE/AP level classes if they so choose. These classes may be too difficult for some if they are supposed to be in the regular classes. For the most part, if students are up for the challenge and are prepared and willing to do everything to succeed, they will. On the other hand, if a student should be in an at level class they may have less motivation to excel, the results of taking higher classes can be potentially detrimental to their future.

Having only three difficulty

middle ground classes

missing levels of difficulty

levels, two being labeled as at level and “honors,” students are much more likely to force themselves into a higher labeled class that they might not do as well in rather than succeeding in their correct level.

Schools push for students to get more credits by taking more honors classes since it looks good for both them and the school, but if students are not quite ready for the next level, it won’t do them many favors.

It is much more beneficial for students to take a regular class and succeed with A’s than to take an honors class or higher resulting in D’s or lower. Schools need to rethink the way they promote the highest level classes because it may be pushing the lower level students too hard and setting them up for failure.

A very similar issue beginning is elective options diminishing as the students grow older, since many believe they have waited too long to begin a path. As a junior or senior, many are concerned it’s too late to start since they won’t have as much time as someone who began the path as a freshman or sophomore. The feeling of missing out or not being able to fully obtain full potential on the subject if the student were to begin a new journey.

Most older students also prefer not to be in a class full of freshmen to hurt their ego and would rather take a class they are less interested in just to not be the odd one out. A lot of students just purely don’t have the confidence or desire to begin a new class as an older student.

The lack of electives is an ongoing concern as well since most electives now are under the categories of extra core classes instead of just a break and participating in fun classes. Electives are supposed to be chosen by the students based on their personal interests instead of using up the mental health breaks for extra language arts or math credits.

CCHS can promote the classes that give students the ability to really enjoy what they’re learning about instead of pushing towards piling students with extra credit classes instead. They shouldn’t have to take so many hard classes like replacing the choice of art with an extra AICE class to look better for the school. There are other options than overloading yourself with work instead of getting a break.

Electives should be fun.

BY LILY MITCHELL

READ MORE AT: thelariatonline.

ws fierce loyalty to his cause.

Director Matt Reeves takes us into the shady world that is Gotham with ‘The Batman’ movie originally released on March 3, but hit HBO streaming on April 18. Reeves brings to life the DC comic characters the Penguin, Catwoman and even the Riddler.

The movie hits the ground running with action and in introducing the new batman actor Robert Pattinson who has played in the ‘Twilight’ franchise and in standalones like ‘Remember Me.’

Although it may concern viewers that a vampire plays a crime-fighting vigilante, Pattinson truly captures the solitude and crime fighting life of the DC character.

Other actors such as Zoë Kravitz and Jeffrey Wright truly nail their roles as the Batman’s coworkers. Kravitz truly became Catwoman with her strong independent and fierce character such as how she acted in Mad Max and Wright encompases Jim Gordon in having to help Batman not get caught by the other officers and shows fierce loyalty to his cause.

Moving on to more heartfelt dramas, Heartland season 14 was released on Netflix on April 1 and does not disappoint with making viewers cry. The first episode takes place after the season 13 ending where Ty Borden, played by Graham Wardle and Amy Flemming, played by Amber Marshall, experience a near death experience while being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

During the first few minutes beloved character Borden enjoys his unexpected last moments with his wife Amy and daughter Lindy as he falls to the ground out of the blue. It is later found out that he has died and we watch once always happy and enthusiastic Flemmings live a saddened life to have lost the love of her life.

This makes the rest of the season unwatchable due to having lost such a vital character to the show just because the actor decided to ‘pursue other interests.’ The show will never be the same because of this and ultimately has

Of the Issue: The Lariat’s #1 Picks April Review Compilation

been ruined.

For those who enjoy more eye-appealing films, ‘White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercombie and Fitch’ takes viewers into the shirtless tale of men and how the Abercombie and Fitch store started. The documentary came out on Netflix on April 19 and is directed by Alison Klayman.

Although not as traditional as other documentaries, it takes us into how the store and fashion impacted teens’ lifestyles and even has former Abercombie modelists/ employees talk about what it was like to work there.

It may not seem as a ‘must see’, but truly encompasses viewers in a brand many have heard of and still wear today. Though some may not like what they see and hear, it’s the truth nonetheless.

Moving on to music, a new single written by Sam Smith ‘ Love Me More’ released on April 28 explores how one has to learn to love oneself for who they are. Smith, who usually goes for heartbreak songs, explores a new topic of accepting one’s differences.

As always, Smith hits all the high notes and makes it sound so effortless to sing such a beautiful song. He starts off all melancholy like his usual songs do, but then goes a bit more upbeat in reflecting the theme of being proud of who we are.

Overall, this month has had a variety of new releases each that have changed the standards and affected us in different ways.

BY LUCIA CORREA

what board game are you?

Add up your points and learn more about yourself

Everyone loves a good board game on a rainy day or to spend quality time with friends and family. Answer the following questions and find out what classic family friendly board game you align best with.

BY MALIA LAHEY

results:

If you got between 0-4 points you are: candy land

If you are Candy Land you are very playful and positive. People love being around you because of your optimism. You are outgoing and often involved in many activities. You work well with others and many see you as a leader.

If you got between 5-10 points you are: monopoly

If you are Monopoly you are a risk taker. You believe that the risk is worth the reward. You tend to make responsible decisions and are admired for your decisiveness.

If you got between 11-15 points you are: clue

If you are Clue you are a very mysterious person, you often pay attention to little details and have amazing problem solving skills. You are sly and tend to get away with stuff. You’re a good friend to have but you question and second guess many things in

If you got between 16-20 points you are: scrabble

If you are Scrabble you are a very busy person, you have a lot going on with extracurriculars and a booming social life. You are quick to come up with solutions to difficult problems but you tend to work better alone.

Varsity Versus Junior Varsity

Does the title really matter?

The majority of student-athletes have one goal in mind: to secure a varsity letter over the course of their high school career. While the pressure to make a varsity team is across-the-board, the importance of being on a junior varsity team should not be downplayed.

Most high school sports are divided into two categories: varsity and junior varsity [JV]. While some sports do not have enough interest for a junior varsity league, others have two teams differentiated by skill level. At CCHS, the more popular sports such as football, soccer, basketball and volleyball have JV teams.

“I started on the JV cheer team because I was new to the sport,” junior Mia Przelomski said. “With lots of practice, I’ve managed to work my way up to the varsity team.”

Most student-athletes strive to make the varsity team, as those players are believed to have the highest skill level. Varsity teams often have more competition and resources, with coaches focusing their efforts on the success of this team. However, many athletes start on a JV version of their sports team, highlighting the importance of a “lower-level” team.

Traditionally, upperclassmen reserve spots on the varsity sports teams. With more experience and seniority, coaches often give them the opportunity to play at the most competitive level. This leaves underclassmen like freshmen and anyone new to the sport a spot on JV to gain experience.

However, some students prove to be an exception. A select few underclassmen with high talent levels in their sport are chosen to play at the varsity level. These athletes usually have years of experience in the sport and can match the skill level of the varsity players. Otherwise, most student-athletes entering high school get their start on a JV team.

Athletes on JV teams work to improve their skills through a similar team dynamic and active competition. The experience allows them to enhance their abilities and prepare to compete at the varsity level. JV teams are also great opportunities for athletic exposure, as varsity coaches can get to know and work with potential players for their varsity teams.

“I didn’t make the basketball team this year, but I still practice with the team,” freshman Gabriel Wensloff said. “I want to get better so that I can make the varsity team in the future.”

While there are significant benefits to JV programs, others argue that they are simply unnecessary. For some sports, there is only one program and the best players start. The lack of a title can create a more inclusive environment while fostering competition.

“I like that there is only one varsity water polo team,” senior Danielle Selevan said. “Even though I might not always start, it makes me feel like I am a part of the team, playing alongside the star players.”

While the lack of a JV team may be more appealing to the athletes, it is not always practical for large sports programs. With the

high popularity of sports like football and soccer, too many students would have to be cut from the program. A JV team allows coaches to recruit more players for a future on varsity.

For student-athletes, the prestige of holding a varsity title remains a must for a high school career. However, the varsity letter may not be as much of a necessity as many believe. JV programs prove to be an important part of an athlete’s development. Thus, students should focus less on the title and more on their personal progress as an athlete.

BY KAYLA GATES

Junior Varsity

Varsity

Cards Against Humanity

Cards Against Humanity

Athlete of the Issue

Freshman Kailyn Echevarria takes on CCHS

CCHS prides itself on having outstanding student athletes. Many CCHS students participate in team or individual sports as a way to get involved in the community. However, for freshman Kailyn Echevarria, or as some of her teammates call her, KK, athletics are everything.

As a freshman, Echevarria landed herself a starting position on both the girls varsity basketball and varsity flag football team.

“I started playing basketball at 5 and started playing competitively at age seven. I started playing because my mom wanted to put me in sports because of my ADHD and it was a way to help me cope,” Echevarria said. “It allowed me to let my energy out and be myself but I ended up really loving it and the rest is history.”

Echevarria began playing flag football in 7th grade at Driftwood Middle School, then joined a co-ed league to play 5v5. She currently plays travel at South Florida Elite Flag Football.

“My favorite aspect of basketball is the emotion that comes from the game,” Echevarria said. “It makes it special when everyone on your team gives their all to win.”

Many of Echevarria’s friends and teammates say that they have enjoyed playing with her in the short time she’s been here at CCHS.

“KK [Kailyn] is a great team player and all-around person,” Junior Yanei Honan said. “She always puts all her effort into everything she does. She’s a great asset on the team and it’s been great having her and being able to play with her.”

Honan played both basketball and flag football with Echevarria and has said that she “always knows how to make me laugh, she’s a great person and amazing teammate.”

Echevarria says she’s learned a lot from playing at CCHS so far.

“I’ve learned to humble myself more as a player because I know I’m a freshman on varsity and I know it is because of my skill but that skill didn’t come overnight in both basketball and football. I worked extremely hard but there is always more work to be done,” Echevarria said. “Another thing is not letting any coaches get in the way of my love

for the game or get in my head.”

Echevarria believes that focus and hardwork are key to becoming a great player. She averaged about 10 points per game and totaled about 60 points during her freshman basketball season. She averages the highest number of receptions according to Maxpreps. com.

“KK strives to be the best no matter who or what stands in her way. She trains inside and outside of school and that is reflected on the field/court,” Junior Jess Deese said. Deese has also played both basketball and flag football with Echevarria.

“She’s a very hard worker, she pushes herself even when no one is watching. She is so fun to be around and I always know it’s going to be a good time when KK’s around,” Deese said. “I’m 100% sure everyone on the team agrees that KK is a very kind and considerate person.”

Echevarria is described as a hardworking athlete on and off the field and a great person to be around. Freshman Ava Alvarez has been playing flag football with Echevarria since she began at age 13.

“KK is the most caring and loving individual I have ever met. She will fight for the people she loves and that’s what makes her so special,” Alvarez said. “KK [Kailyn] is always there to cheer people up when they are down, especially me. Many people think she’s intimidating when she’s really just a big goofball.”

BY MALIA LAHEY

Photos courtesy of Kailyn Echevarria

Across

Down 1. buy properties and make money

sink your opponent

place hands and feet on different color circles

card game with the goal of reaching zero cards

tiles from 1-13 in different colors as well as 2 joker tiles

guess who the murderer is