September 2012

What’s really going on with Douglas County Schools and the Board of Education?

(Page 12-13)

. test pro g. o t n i ce et l offi me ntra cation e c D du DCS of E the Board e d tsi hly r ou ont the the m a g ers ttend mb me bers a y t i m e un mm ity m d commun n a o s, her nd c teachers, a , s t den eac Stu ts, t ve: tuden o b A w: S Belo

What it Really Means to Be a Rock Canyon Athlete (Page 6)

The 2012 Presidential Election Hits Colorado (Page 10)

What Happens if You Don’t “Go for the Gold”?

(Page 15)

Does Academic Integrity Still Exist?

(Page 19)

5810 McArthur Ranch Road. Highlands Ranch, CO 80124. 303-387-3000. Volume 9. Issue 1. September 14, 2012 [kaylaneil]

Now the

02 [9/14/12]

The Life of a Jaguar: New and Improved

New Teachers Start the Year

Brand New Jaguars haven’t just been appearing behind the desks

Lauren Posey ‘13 and Carter Cashion ‘13 fill their plates with doughnuts, muffins, and fruit at the Senior Breakfast, Aug. 29 on the turf field.

Making Traditions

The majority of students at the Senior Breakfast deem this new tradition a success

Traditions are blossoming in the halls as each new class of Jaguars makes its mark. The Class of 2013 has already created a new tradition for the upcoming senior classes.

The idea is simple: begin the year with a breakfast and end the year with a dinner and sunset. This symbolic idea was offered up by Student Council member Bayleigh Arey ‘13.

“I heard that this idea was really successful at other schools and I thought that Rock Canyon would benefit from a new tradition for seniors,” Arey said.

It was a hit for this year’s seniors.

Quincy Schurr ‘13 enjoys a doughnut while laughing with “I loved the breakfast,” Maddie Landis ‘13 said, “We her friends at the Senior Breakfast, Aug. 29. “It was a great were able to spend more time with fellow seniors!” way to start my day-- and the rest of the year!” Schurr said. [virginiavaughan]

Unfamiliar faces have been sighted roaming the halls. Not only are the freshman and new students starting a journey at Rock Canyon, but a few teachers are as well.

Jenna Scheirman graduated Rock Canyon in 2008. If it wasn’t for some of her past instructors she wouldn’t be teaching today.

In middle school her interest in social studies evolved.

“I had some middle school teachers who made social studies come alive with some of the interesting things they would tell us, I still remember some of them,” Scheirman said.

In addition to teaching social studies Scheirman is also one of the cross country coaches.

“I am proud of the participation in my classroom,”

Schierman said. “ I am also impressed by the determination and work ethic of the cross country team.”

English teacher Louis Goldin is an English teacher who used to teach at Rock Canyon for three years. Two years later he is back for more.

In college he majored in English, and minored in education. Since then he fell in love with how English can be tied into almost anything.

“Pop Culture, science, math, history, everything gets tied into it,” Goldin said. “English is communication, it’s about expressing, understanding, writing, and critical thinking. These are life long skills that you use in everything,” “I try to be unique and make school and education fun. I want to show

what it can empower and be able to do for people. I don’t know a lot of people that do that.”

Former social studies teacher Chris Page is the new dean here at RC. Even though he has new responsibilities at the school he will continue to coach the wrestling, track, and mock trial teams.

“On the first day of school I was so surprised to see Mr. Page! I thought he left, so I was so happy that he was still here and going to coach the track team,” Dasha Duncan ‘14 said.

New teachers are quickly becoming a part of the Rock Canyon family. Welcome your new teachers to a brand new experience that they will never forget. [linneamelbye] [ashleyboatman]

What’s Up With the Benches? First Responders Mitchell Whitten ‘15 gives students a simple gift: a place to sit

Fire Science offers unique and real-life experience

As students mill about at the end of the day, tired and ready to go home, waiting for their ride or talking with friends, the minutes drag on.

But thanks to Mitchell Whitten ‘15, the process might be just a little more bearable. On July 28, over 20 people participated in the three-hour build of five benches outside the student entrance by The Rock.

“I wanted to better my community in a way people would find use in,” Whitten said.

“That’s why I built these benches in front of the school for my Eagle Project.”

An Eagle Project is the last step and highest achievement a young man can get in the Boy Scouts of America. It is designed to demonstrate leadership while performing a project for the benefit of his community.

After months of preparation and planning, Whitten raised approximately $600 and brought together all the materials to build benches.

While most students study in the traditional classroom setting, 15-20 select students have the opportunity to learn Fire Science first hand, with the use of a real fire truck and ambulance in the back of the 4000’s pod.

Fire Science is a new, dual credit class now available to Jaguars, benefitting those who are interested in emergency services and fire fighting. Through taking this class, students receive training equivalent to the level of Fire Fighter One, as outlined by the Colorado State Division of Fire Safety, training for emergency medical response to National Registry Standards, and also specific fitness preparation for firefighter physical agility entrance exams.

“I love it because it’s like taking three different classes, where we learn emergency medical training,” Kyle Huebsch ‘14 said.

By taking this course, students not only receive nine hours of college credit, they will also be ahead of other high school graduates pursuing a career in emergency services.

Later in the year, the class is planning on having live fire training sessions at The Littleton Fire Rescue training academy. Stu-

“Prep started around February and was a lot of hard work,” Whitten said.

Over 20 people participated , including current students Max Orgill ‘15, Hunter Maready ‘16, Justin Hunter ‘15 and Brickelle Bro ‘15. Under the direction of Whitten, they were able to build the benches quickly and efficiently.

“I built wooden frames and nailed down Trex to the frames to form the bench tops. Then we poured concrete in holes to secure them,” Whitten said.

Though they are a new addition to the school, they are already being used and appreciated by the student body.

“I think they are great! It’s nice to be able to sit outside up from the ground,” Ellie Thorson ‘15 said.

[maddiewhitten]

Sept. 11 Ian Fraizer ‘13 and the fire science class hike nine laps (the equivilent of the stories of the Twin Towers) around Red Rocks to remember and honor the firefighters who served in 9/11. “It’s [a class] unlike any I’ve ever taken at school,” Kyle Huebsch ‘14 said. “I love it.” dents will also have the chance to go on ride-alongs with private ambulance companies and local fire departments.

Those thinking about taking this course should have an interest in going into emergency fields services, be around a college reading level and decent in math, and also have a high physical fitness level.

“For about two thirds of my life, I have been involved in many and varied areas of emergency services, including the professional Fire Rescue Service,

and I have enjoyed teaching it throughout my career,” fire science instructor George Piccone said. “ The field of the Fire Service, including technical and specialized rescue as well as emergency medical services, requires intensive lifelong study and dedication, and the earlier [a student]w begins the process, the greater the chances of a long, successful, and extremely rewarding career.” [catieyanchak]

Now the

[9/14/12]

BACK TO

03

photo by [nicolecassou]

1. photo by [nicolecassou]

photo by [nicolecassou]

photo by [nicolecassou]

6. photo by [dylanzbylski]

photo by [nicolecassou]

2.

The 2012-2013 school year kicks off with band, STUCO, sports and school spirit in full swing 1. And We’re Marching-The class of 2013 marches along with the spirit squads Aug. 24 at the Back to School Assembly.

Many seniors made signs, shirts, and wore black to show their senior spirit.

2.Queen of the Jungle- Student Council President Casey Bergeron ‘13 adresses the student population about the Back to School Dance, as well as the Homecoming theme. “I love public speaking and standing in front of people anyway so I don’t see it as a daunting task,” Bergeron said.

3.Dancing to the Beat-Hope Whitworth ‘13 dances with the Rock Canyon poms team on Aug. 24 at the Back to School Assembly in the gym in front of the entire student body.“We started back in June with practice every day to help us prepare for this upcoming year,” Whitworth said.

4. Whiteout-Austin Ansay ‘14 cheers for the Jaguars at the first football game of the season. Students wore white to show support for the football team, Jags won against Highlands Ranch 21-15 Aug. 31.

5. On top of the World-Xander Harlan ‘13 stands on Wilkins Dismuke’s ‘13 shoulders to help his fellow seniors get spirited up Aug. 24 at the Back to School Assembly. “Neither of us were really thinking that much about doing it, we both just thought that it would be something funny to do, and since I was standing a row below him it worked out perfectly.” Dismuke said.

6. In Tune-Saylor Gilbert ‘13 and Allison Miller ‘14 play flute in the marching band at the Back to School Assembly Aug. 24.

7. Keeping the Jungle Beat- Cort Lawrence, a 2012 graduateshows off his DJ-ing skills at the Back to School Dance Aug. 24.“ The dance was great. I thought the DJ was awesome because he used fun, popular songs that were great to dance to,” said Parker Benson ‘14.

7. photo by [kelceybeckman]

5.

4.

3.

[dylanzybilski]

04

the Now

9/14/12

When Rivalries Lead to Vandalism in HR Since the heated game between Rock Canyon and Highlands Ranch Football August 31, tensions between the two schools have risen to a boil, but after several serious accounts of vandalism, the root cause seems to be nothing more than bad sportsmanship

Friday August 31st Rock Canyon Football’s debut into the 5A Pioneer league ended with an inspiring victory against rival Highlands Ranch High School, 21 to 15 Jaguars.

This triumph was preceded by a series of vandalism attacks on the Rock Canyon campus by the Falcons, anticipating the first football game of the season, against each other for the first time.

“It was really low of them to vandalize our field and ruin the turf for the school,” varsity football player David DiPetro ‘13 said, “it just made us more pumped to play the game and made the win even better.”

Unsportsmanlike vandalism included an image of male genitalia spray-painted on the football field, profanities, scratches, and phrases such as “Go Falcons” tagged on students’ cars, and damages to the school’s new benches on the front lawn, made for an Eagle Scout project by Mitchell Whitten ‘14.

“I felt so disappointed and mad that Highlands Ranch would do something like that,” Whitten said.

Highlands Ranch Principal Jerry Goings recognized the added disappointment of the damage being on an Eagle project.

“I hate that this happened to an Eagle Scout project. We have these projects on our own campus,” Goings said.

Alexis Svenson ‘13 was one of many students whose car was vandalized.

“It was definitely a surprise seeing my windshield be completely scratched out, so it made me that much happier that we won the game,” Svenson said.

“Principal Andy Abner and I have always worked closely together to maintain a

healthy rivalry,” Goings said. “It’s disappointing when a few students choose to make these kinds of decisions.”

In an interview discussing the vandalism, Goings ensured to convey his feelings towards his student community.

“I refuse to hear that HRHS is full of a bunch of jerks,” Goings said.

The Rock Canyon/Highlands Ranch rivalry has a history, just last year our rock, a symbol for school spirit was painted before a Rock Canyon vs. Highlands Ranch basketball game by the Falcons.

Despite the degree of the vandalism this year Goings doesn’t view this act as an escalation of the conflict.

“I don’t believe this is an escalation of the rivalry, I think it was due to the fact that it was the first football game of the season and the first time we’ve ever played each other in football,” Goings said.

Abner and Goings have known each other from working together at Douglas County High School and continue to collaborate to ensure that their schools’ rivalry doesn’t intensify to a dangerous degree.

“Mr. Abner and I will be vigilant so we can prevent any further incidences and even physical conflict,” Goings said.

Framing instances are also a concern.

Some administrators considered the possibility that students from other school are responsible for the vandalism, and that it was possible Highlands Ranch could retaliate in a different form in the future.

“I can see our kids going onto the Vista campus and putting Rock Canyon stuff on their property,” Goings said.

[brandonreimers]

Mitchell Whitten ‘15 looks on in disappointment upon seeing the damage that has been done to the benches he built.

The interconnectivity of the four Highlands Ranch high schools in location and social media outlets like Twitter and Facebook can create an environment that fosters these fierce rivalries. Several Tweets and Facebook statuses mocked each other’s teams.

Principal Goings expressed his commitment with the other administrators in the area to keep rivalries healthy.

“The administrators in the Highlands Ranch area work well with each other to provide appropriate and fun competition,” said Goings.

Working to Make a Difference In an effort to raise money for sister school, Escuela Verde, Key Club hopes to gain support for their humanitarian efforts by serving up pancakes to the community Key Club will be hosting a pancake breakfast and vacation auction Saturday, Sept. 29. The fund raising event will be held at the Applebee’s in Highlands Ranch at University and County Line from 7:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. with proceeds going to curricula and scholarships to attend Escuela Verde in Uvita, Costa Rice. Last year this event raised about $11,000 for Escuela Verde.

“Teachers at Escuela Verde are paid approximately $800 a month,” Key Club Sponsor David Sapienza said. “Last year’s cash donation paid one teacher’s salary for

a year, our goal is to be able to pay for two.”

Throughout the breakfast vacations will be auctioned ranging in value from $200$4000 dollars and as well as all you can eat pancakes will be provided. Tickets will be on sale during both lunches for $7 as well as bumper stickers and t-shirts will be available for purchase.

For more information contact Sapienza in room 5300. [jeremypurchase]

In light of the recent vanalism that has occured at Rock Canyon, it has become apparent that rivalries exist between the four high schools in Highlands Ranch. Hopefully the rivalries will remain on the field and both schools will be able to handle a win or loss with sportsman-like maturity.

[nicolecassou]

the Now

Setting the Stage for the 2012-2013 Season

[09/14/12]

05

From the anxiety of auditions to the final bow on closing night, the Rock Canyon drama department has opened the curtains for another season of productions, and has already begun working on their first production, “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” The auditorium has seen the likes of tap shoes and construction ladders, a redneck wedding performed under a UPS officiate, a quirky family of New Yorkers trying to make the best of a bad situation, and even a selfdestructive witch hunt sparked by nothing but rumor and gossip.

The drama department has chosen two shows for the fall semester. The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is the first show, and chronicles the events that unfold when a quirky group of Broadway producers and performers are trapped inside a lavish mansion with a killer on the loose. While the second show, A Roomful of Roses, depicts the life of a girl named Bridget as she attempts to regain the life and relationship with her estranged mother, that was taken from her so long ago.

Auditions for both shows were held on August 20 and 21, and already both of the shows have been cast, and the actors have begun preparing for their roles.

“I was cast as Grace Hewitt in A Roomful of Roses,” drama veteran Lela Smith ‘14 said.

“Grace is the next door neighbor of the main family. She is a mom with two teenage kids (Played my Logan Schurr ‘15 and Max Orgill ‘15). She pretty much speaks her mind and can be a little random. She also seems like a really sweet mom! Needless to say, I haven’t even finished reading the script, but I already love her and she cracks me up!”

Some students, such as Lauren Wearsch ‘13, have even chosen to work both shows; meaning that they work on a backstage (or tech) crew for one show, and then they act in the other.

“I am very excited to co-head the costume

[sydcharvat] Actors Nathan Nelson ‘14, Aimee Shnebeck ‘13, and Ian Fraizer ‘13 all attempt to catch a murderer before he catches them . “ My favorite part of being in the musical is the way that everybody works together , it is a joy to work with them,” said Nelson. crew with Erin Snyder ‘13,” Wearsch said. is similar to my role as Rhoda in The Bad Seed “I am so excited just to be in this show in gen“When I started high school, costume crew last year,” Wearsch said. “But they are actueral!” Smith said. “ I’m especially excited to was a lot smaller, but it has grown and beally a lot different, I think that this role and its work with the people in the cast! I love them come a really fun part of each show, especially story are a lot more relatable for the average all and I can’t wait to work with them. I love when the costumes are as unique as the ones teenager.” how close a cast can get during a show and in The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.”

The first show will run from September I’m pretty sure this one will be no exception.

And once she’s finished dressing over twenty 27-29 with the next show following with I’m excited to see what the entire cast and actors to look like everything from a zany Holperformances from November 19-18. But, I will come up with, and how we will work lywoood director, to an undercover NYPD ofeven though the performance nights are far together to make this show great like I know ficer, Wearsch will also play the role of Bridget off, the cast and crew has already begun their it will be!” in A Roomful of Roses. work to make this a great year for the drama “A lot of people think that my role as Bridget department. [sydcharvat]

Discover ACC

HIGH SCHOOL VISITATION DAY

Thursday, Oct. 11, 9:00 A.M.-12:30 P.M. ACC Littleton Campus Students and guidance counselors can meet with ACC faculty, staff and students about our programs, transfer options, financial aid and student services.

RSVP at arapahoe.edu/discoveracc For information or accommodations, contact karen.khuu@arapahoe.edu or call 303.797.5960.

the Game

06

Unleash The Beast: Eric Williams

Eric Williams ‘13 is not only the most recruited athlete at school, he is the most recruited football player in the state of Colorado; but there’s more to an athlete than what you see on the field Intensity. Focus. Drive.

It is hard not to notice that senior running back Eric Williams embodies these qualities.

As proof, in the 2011 season, Williams was named the top football player not just in the league but in the entire state of Colorado by the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA).

Add in his confident stride and scruffy “wolverine” hair, and he may come across as the typical jock.

However, Williams is far from typical. Beyond his gridiron skills, he lives his life with a quiet humility and astounding academic abilities.

“Eric is talented both on and off the field.

He puts time into studying just like he puts time into weightlifting and working on football skills,” teammate Chance Champine ‘13 said. “Eric is a good teammate and hard worker that will demand the best from you, if he knows you are not playing to your best ability he will push you to play harder.”

Every high school football player wants to leave a lasting impression with their senior season, but Williams has some additional motivation going into this season.

“Eric is a very strong student athlete, meaning that he’s very good in the classroom and he is also a tremendous athlete and one of our leaders in the senior class, Rock Canyon Athletic Director Tom Brieske said. “He works hard in the weight room and during the off season. He is a humble, real tough, hard-nosed football player that leads by example, not so much with the vocal stuff.“ Williams was able to bounce back from an offseason injury of tearing his calf muscle while running track last Spring.

“I may not be in the best physical shape of my life right now after coming back from an offseason injury, but it has given me a new drive going into the season,” Williams ‘13 said.

With the recruiting process already on it’s way, many colleges such as, the University of Wyoming, Colorado State University, Holy Cross, South Dakota State, BYU, Army

Shannon Lieber ‘13 on the lack of acknowledgement softball receives from the school: “We do this for our school. We don’t do this to get praise, but we don’t get any respect.”

Samuel Makikalli ‘14 on the play of the varsity soccer team so far: “We feel good and solid about our performance. I think we need to improve playing as a team, avoid individuality and improve our defense.”

Ciara Stamper ‘13 on the poms team changes from last year:

Running-back Eric Williams ‘13 fights his way down the field for a first down in the opening football game against Highlands Ranch Aug 31. Williams had 24 carries and rushed for 122 yards in the 21-15 victory over the rival Falcons. and other Division 1 schools have offered Williams a football scholarship to play for their university.

“Eric is a very respectful young man; he is quiet but when he knows the task at hand, he knows how to get it done,” AP Calculus teacher Allen Gregory said. “Eric is advanced to have made it to calculus by senior year.

Math is very logical and you have to have arranged thoughts and this can translate to the playbook in football.”

It isn’t just the 28 touchdowns or the 2115 yards Williams swept up during the 2011 season that sets him apart from the rest of the team. Williams is a leader both on and off of the field.

“William’s humility is definitely one of his stronger attributes,” Brieske said. “He is just going about business like he’s Eric. He is nice to everyone, I have never seen him

Varsity soccer players who Place boys golf team finished at the 2012 will be playing for a club Titan Continental league team this year instead of RC tournament Aug. 21

Time Brickelle Bro ‘15 swam 400m to take fifth at the London Paralympics Aug. 31

A quote compilation from key figures in fall sports

[kelceybeckman]

Fall Sports: By the Numbers 5 2 5:20.42

They Said It

5

Goals scored by the boys varsity soccer team in 5 games this season

boasting about himself or pounding his chest saying ‘look at me!’ He is always that guy going about his own business and being a leader; he does the right thing all the time and I think kids look up to that and I think he just carries himself the right way.”

Even though Williams values his personal accomplishments, he is the consummate team player.

“For Eric the team comes first. Eric is an unselfish player that loves to compete and just wants to win the game,” Head Football Coach Tom Lynch said.

The varsity football team has started the season hitting the ground running, with two solid wins to make their mark in the 5A division.

“Our number one team goal for this season is to win the first playoff game for Rock Canyon this year,” Williams said. [kelceybeckman]

1000+

Number of students at the RC vs. HRHS football game Aug. 31 where RC won 21-15

6 Passes completed by the Highlands Ranch offense against the Jaguars Friday Aug 31

“We have a lot of changes starting this year. Some of those include, having such a big team and a lot of new girls to train. We are excited to be moving up to 5A status in football. We have a lot of exciting games and halftime dances that we can’t wait to perform.”

Head football coach Tom Lynch on moving up to 5A this year: “This year we are playing in a new league (5A) against past rivals that have moved up, and a few new teams that I think will be good competition. I am not sure how we will perform, but we are taking it one game at a time.” [michaelshapiro]

8

Returning Varsity players on the tennis team

97

Yards ran by Quinn O’Neill ‘15 to score a touchdown against Arvada West Sep. 7. Rock Canyon won the game by a score of 23-12 [jeremypurchase]

the Game

[9/14/12]

Fall Season Storylines: The Top Things to Watch

07

A sneak peek of what we can expect to see from a few of the fall teams this season. Check our next issue for reports on gymnastics, tennis, golf, cheer, poms, mountain biking, field hockey, and more

5A: No Problem for Football:

New season. New attitudes. New focus. New competition.

The football teams began competing in 5A. So far the Jags have performed well by winning their first two games, one against Highlands Ranch and the second against Arvada West.

“This year we are playing in a new league (5A) against past rivals that have moved up, and a few new teams that I think will be good competition.” head football coach Tom Lynch said. “I am not sure how we will perform but we are taking one game at a time.”

They are away at Fountain Fort Carson tonight at 7 p.m.

XC Stepping Up the Intensity:

Cross Country came in seventh in state. The girls in twenty-third with second and sixth finishes in their regional tournament last season. Going into this year, the question is whe ther or not the team can repeat their success after losing leadership from former seniors Jacob Dysart ‘12 (First Team All Continental League and First Team All Region), and Torin McCue ‘12 (Second Team All Region).

“The varsity team as a lot of depth this year all the way into our JV team,” Andy Tinlin ‘14 said. “As a team we have changed up our workout routines from previous years to try and avoid injury. We are working on more speedwork and taking some days hard and and some days easy.”

Looking For a Leader:

[brandonreimers]

Alli McCloskey ‘13 sprints onto the field for varsity softball practice Aug. 24. Practicing for their first game Aug.26, the team prepared with a series of practice drills and practice games.

Will Softball Win the Big One? After being eliminated from the State Championships twice in two years, Rock Canyon Softball has decided to take the loss - not to mention lack of respect - with pride and dignity. While there is still fierce competition, the team plans to be a force to be reckoned with in the fall. The stakes and expectations to win state will be even higher this year due to their consistent state and playoff appearances.

The Question at Goalie: Due to the loss of Blake Foley ’13 as starting keeper for the soccer team, Rock Canyon now has a void to fill. As a Senior, Blake Foley played every minute of every game in the 2011 season. Foley also held one of the best shutout records in the state. This year Foley has decided to play club soccer instead of playing for Rock Canyon. Samuel Makikalli ’14 will fill his shoes as starting goalie this season as the Jags set out to better their playoff result from last year, and make it to the 5A state championship final. “I think we have had a bit of rough start to our preseason,” Makikalli said. “ But our team has a lot of potential, and I think we can do some really big things this year.”

As the Jags begin their fall soccer season, who will step up and lead the team to success?

In addition to losing two starting seniors, five varsity players have decided to stop playing for Rock Canyon to play for a club team this fall. Coach Sean Henning will be looking for a new source of leadership and direction from within the squad. Currently, Axel Larsson’13 and Reese Werden’14 will be the two players captaining the team, with the possibility of a third player being named at a later date.

“The team is looking really solid and we have already seeen great results this season,” Larsson said. “We will definitely have a shot at state this year and I am looking forward to showing everyone how far we can make it.”

For now, Larsson and Werden will be leading the team through the season.

#BeatRanch:

A sea of over one thousand Rock Canyon students filled Shea Stadium Aug. 31 clad in all white for Friday’s game against Highlands Ranch High School. Through the RC football team’s hard work, teamwork and dedication, the boys were able to pull away with a win, 21-15.

“It was awesome to see the crowd last week. It really pumped me up,” Ryan Hommel ‘15 said. “I focused in even more, knowing the whole school was backing us up, and we definitely had more fans there than Ranch, which was amazing.” [compiled by therock staff]

the Game

08 [9/14/12] 1.

[kelceybeckman]

Behind the Lens: Fall Athletics From golf to football, athletes devote themselves to a variety of sports 1. Aimee Schnebeck ‘13 holds up a sign supporting Austin Beane ‘13 and the rest of the Jaguars at the Aug 31 game versus Highlands Ranch where we won 21-15. 2. Varsity starting goalkeeper Samuel Makikalli ‘14 punts the ball after making a save during the Aug 25 Varsity scrimmage against Legacy High School. “We played really well today” Makilkalli said. “Our defense is stellar and as long as we can continue to score goals, we will be successful.”3. Her suitcase full, Brickelle Bro ‘15 prepares to leave for London.

[natalieholthaus]

3.

2.

[quentinboose]

4. Varsity second baseman Lauren Yacks ‘14 successfully attempts to make an out at first base on a ground ball Sept. 7 versus Legacy. The Jaguars were unable to exact revenge upon the state champion Lightning, losing with a final score of 19-6 at home. 5. Audie Ryburn ‘13 hammers up the final hill at the first High School Mountain Bike League race at Chalk Creek on Sept. 9. Ryburn placed 16th in the boys varsity division, competeing for the Rock Canyon Composite team against 32 other riders from various high schools around the state. “It never gets easier, “ Ryburn said.

“You just get faster.”

4.

[brandonreimers]

6.

[dillionsavich]

7.

2.

3.

[blairwhitworth]

8.

[jeremypurchase]

[stacykiwor]

5.

6. Andrew Romano ‘13 tees off at 8:02 a.m. During a match on the Lone Tree Golf Course. “ I think my game will peak right in time for state championships,”Romano said. 7. Varsity cheerleader Darcy Vogt ‘15 lifts Rachel Moote ‘15 before practice Aug 31. 8. Participating in a pre-practice warm up, Mason Manross ‘14 stretches his hip-flexor with the football team.

the Times

[9/14/12]

Report Card

Thanks to the Class of 2012 Falling expectations of a new courtyard from the class

Graded by the faculty, the Rock takes a quick look at how the new bell schedule is rated by the department heads Subject

Performing Arts

World Language

Math

Science

Special Education

Grade

C+ B C B+ B

[kelceybeckman] [maerohrbach]

of ‘12 results in the new mural

Teacher Comments “I would say we don’t like the 8 period days because class time just goes by so fast. By the time you get stuff out, it just cuts down your class time, The block periods are nice but the downfall is you used to have four days a week to see your kids.”

- Joel Naegle, Department

Chair of Performing Arts

[rachelcuny]

“Right now it is too early to tell, the studies say that this schedule isn’t best for learning a language, that smaller times more frequently works better, but we don’t really know for sure.”

-Dayna Moore, Department Chair of World Language “Math is some thing that needs to be practiced every day and this is not going to happen with the new schedule. Benefits are time to work on in-class activities and projects. Disadvantages are less time to cover material.”

-Mandy Zimmerman, Depart

ment Chair of Math “The new schedule has been good because there is more time for labs. However, it has not been beneficial for each teacher. We have lost overall minutes in the year.”

-Kristi Piccone, Department

Chair of Science “The demand for the students in our department to attend to a task for a longer period of time can be a struggle, and the transition from day to day is hard on the kids. However, the advantage of the new schedule is that the students get to participate in more hands-on activities.”

-Nicole Amidon, Department

Chair of Special Education

New Schedule Gleans Mixed Response

A growing number of students have called for a change in the 2012-2013 schedule With each new freshman class coming into the high school, the halls of Rock Canyon have become more crowded. Just about everything is the same except there is a change, there are eight classes.

But compiling this new schedule was no easy task.

“If you look at the 70 teachers in this building teaching 1,800 students in any given day, the master schedule is a unique puzzle, and it is driven by student demand,” Principal Andy Abner said.

Each department has something to say. While some are enjoying this new schedule, other departments are having a hard time cramming in all of the information in three days. On top of that, there will be the inconsistent days that the students come to class.

“I like the schedule and how I do not have to come to class everyday but Access needs some work because I have period one and three

09

off,” Jacqui Hemphill ‘13 said.

“The weeks are inconsistent from having one all-period day and four block days per week, to having two all-day periods and two block days on four day weeks, Chair of Science Department, Kristi Piccone said.

There was a vote among the staff in which “it was split straight down the middle,” Abner said, as to what schedule they should choose for the 2012-2013 school year.

There were many differing opinions with the teachers, making the vote difficult. However, since there was such a large split, ultimately the administration made the decision. The conclusion satisfied almost everyone, although, according to Abner, “some people were upset with it.”

In the end the decision was made based on students’ needs.

“Teachers are really passionate for kids and doing what’s best for

them,” Abner said.

However, while staff and students alike seem to be satisfied for now, there is controversy over how to handle Access periods.

Since there is no penalty for not coming to Access, there is a lack of motivationforcoming,especiallyfor studentswithoutaclassfirstorsecond period.

“In order to change the way we do Access we’ll have to look at instructional minutes, meaning we might have to change how long a lunch period is, so there might be more minutes back into a class. We have to look at what our start time is, what our finish time is,” Abner said.

In the end this new schedule will take a little getting used to, but with any change there remains a need to “work out the kinks”. [briannacooke]

At the end of the day students file down the main staircase where they are met with the new mural painted at the end of June by artist Israel “Izzy” Milstead. Milstead finalized the painting after several options presented by Principal Andy Abner and Student Council Sponsor Kate Hartline.

As students filed into Rock Canyon on the first day, they were met with several changes; new schedule, teachers, new classes. But the most obvious was the huge mural above the cafeteria entrance featuring our crest and two jaguars. “ The mural is awesome because when I get board walking down the stairs and the mural gives me something to look at,” Dakota Donnell ‘14 said.

Expecting the senior class of 2012’s gift to be a remodel of the school courtyard. Some were confused to see the courtyard in the same condition as the day they left it back in May. “Originally the class gift of 2012 was supposed to be the courtyard, but due to difficulties with the project it has been delayed,” Principal Andy Abner said.

In the middle of the courtyard under the circular stone patch lies a grease trap and a sewer line below.

Although the class wanted to remodel that area, it would have taken a civil enginneer and a large group of contractors to complete the job.

“It was a pretty involved project and would have been more expensive than the class could have paid for,” Abner said. “[We] want to put a ring of concrete of river rock and low shrubs and a couple of trees out there so that people can sit around out there instead of tripping on the rock.”

As a result , student council ended up using their back-up idea. Abner and student council adviser Kate Hartline met earlier this year as to what the mural would look like. The discussed four or five different layouts of jaguars, such as jaguars laying down or in the trees.

The result was the current mural, painted by artist Israel “Izzy” Milstead.

“It was done over the summer at the end of June and it’s the class gift of 2012,” Abner said.

Although the courtyard rennovation has yet to happen, the mural represents our school and helps to remind students on a daily basis of who we are and what we stand for as Rock Canyon Jaguars. [rachelcuny]

Gym Gets a Jaguar Facelift The new paint around the gym brings in spirit Walking into the gym, you see the new paint job around the gym.

In previous years the gym has been an off white, making it easy to see the scuff marks created from different balls repeadetly hitting the walls of the gym.

Trying to paint over the scuff marks created unmatched blotches off white and new white. In order to fix this problem, the bottom half of the gym was painted over, with our school colors. Now when the balls hit the gym still look in great condition plus it creates a new mood in the gym for school pride.

“It is a good way to add spirit to the assemblyes and get everyone pumped up,” Elise Martines ‘14 said.

Another addition is the athletics website against the left side wall of the gym. “ We put our athletic website up their so that anybody in the gym can see that and if there is a televised game it will pick up with that and hopefully, direct them to the website” Principal Andy Abner said.

Among the other changes in the gym,

is the fixing of the league and state championships banners from previous years which were were taken down over the summer to be re-sewn and fixed up, and will soon be ready to be re-hung.

There is also the possibility of the eyes of the jaguar painted on the black mats at the end of the gym that will be up soon. [rachelcuny]

[nicolecassou]

Speaking at the back to school assembly Friday Aug. 24 Principal Andy Abner welcomes students to the tenth year the school has been opened. “ Trying to paint the entire gym is expensive so we painted half of the gym,” Abner said.

Times the

10 [9/14/12]

A Heat Stroke and a Handshake Later...

A personal view of a presidential campaign gathering in Boulder, CO

In order to report on this story, I went up to Boulder to witness the President’s campaign speech for myself. There I got to be at the fore front of the spirit of this year’s election.

7:40 a.m:

When I arrived at the University of Colorado in Boulder, I was met by a long line of people wrapped around the campus. Looking around, there were many people varying in age and background, all gathered under the beating sun.

While waiting in line with a team from Habitat for Humanity, there were Obama campaign aides posted everywhere, as well as Secret Service agents, police, and volunteers from other campaigns - including Jared Polis for Congress - bustling around the campus. At one point I approached a man in the front of the line, who informed me that he arrived in Boulder at 2 a.m that morning for the campaign. speech. Despite the heat (produced both by the weather and cramped conditions) the faces of the crowd in line remiained eager.

Colorado’s Take

“You made the investment in yourself, I want to make sure America is standing by you every step of the way.”

Times the

A

[9/14/12]

A Race to the End of the Finish Line

s General Election Day, November 6th, inches closer, Colorado has only just beginning to see this fierce race both on a national scale as well as a local one.

During the elections, there is not only the popular vote comprised of qualified voters, but an electoral vote, in which candidates must gather a total of 270 electoral votes from the various states in the Union in order to win the election. In this 2012 election, both the Obama and Romney campaigns have elaborate plans to win states all over the nation and consequently, the election.

In order to win this election they play to use ‘swing states’: states (Florida, Iowa, MichiAmerica have taken to homes and public gan, Virginia, Wisconsin, Ohio and Colorado) events, registering voters for their respective that can go either way in a candidate’s favor; sides as well as persuading the unsure potenColorado holds 9 electoral votes for whichtial voters to vote for their candidate. ever candidate wins the state, thus making “Colorado will be one of the most, if not the it an essential state most important state in in the already-tight this upcoming election. impending election.

It’s really important “ It seems like neither for us to have as many candidate has an committed people in advantage over the the field who are ready other, seeing the outto help win this state come’s really hard,” EJ for the President; this Katsoulas ‘13 said. election will be incredWhile Election Day is A Coordinator of Organizibly close nationally, still two months away, ing for America and Colorado as a state Colorado residents is representative of have seen a steady that tight race.” said an flood of attack ads from both sides on major organizer and coordinator with Organizing TV stations in the state. As the battle rages for America, President Obama’s grassroots on the TV screens, the field presence in campaign team in Colorado, who wished to neighborhoods by each campaign is also remain anonymous. beginning to emerge.

Organizers such as her have been tasked “Pretty soon I think I will sit down in front with mobilizing volunteers in Castle Rock and of the T.V, count the number of times each Highlands Ranch for the Obama campaign, candidate has had an attack ad, and whoever where she’ll spend her time up until Novemhas the least amount, gets my vote,” Jenny ber 6th registering voters and supporting the Tran ‘13 said.

President’s platform in Douglas County as Volunteer cordinators and operatives from much as she can. both Romney-Ryan 2012 and Obama for “While Douglas County itself is a tradi-

11

Election 2012

ahead a grueling and increasingly intensive battle for the presidency.

The candidates’ appearances within Colorado will only become more common as the campaign marches on. At the time of the printing of this article, Paul Ryan is scheduled to appear at a “victory rally” for the Romney-Ryan campaign at WestPac Restorations, an aviation maintenance business in Colorado Springs on Thursday, September 6th; Ryan’s last appearance was in Lakewood, where he emphasized the economic issues of the country. iMost recently, President Obama appeared and spoke at the University of Colorado in tionally conservative area, there is a solid Boulder, where he encouraged supporters to percentage of pro-Obama or Obama-leaning keep their stakes in the grassroots campaign residents that we can register or win over, and mobilize voters. He also proposed a and since Colorado’s status is decided by the ‘Rocky Mountain Rumble’: a contest between popular vote within University of Colorado the state, every voter and Colorado State Unicounts.” versity over which school The Romney camcan register the most paign in Colorado has voters for the President been working equally as elections over the next hard to make Colorado couple days. go red this upcoming When considering election. While the the current abundance Romney-Ryan 2012 of attack ads, grassroots staff in Douglas County Organizer and coordinator of operations, and visits by declined comment on Organizing for America candidates to Colorado, Colorado’s status as a it’s very clear that the state is a critical piece in swing state, the Romney support is evident this years campaign. Noting that there still reat most public events, including the Douglas mains several months of election campaigning County Fair & Rodeo and the Douglas County left and work to be done, the political climate July 4th Parade. of Colorado is certainly expected to escalate, The most recent poll published by the Puband Coloradans, Douglas County residents, lic Policy Polling group puts Barack Obama and Rock Canyon High School students alike at 49% and Mitt Romney at 46% in Colorado, will all be called on to become one with the while another poll shows Romney leading at American process.

50% to Obama’s 45% -- both neck-and-neck

races that are very much within a poll’s mar-

With the Presidential Elections right around the corner, campainging in Colorado is essential to Romney and Obama’s “swing state” votes. However, it remains to be seen whether or not Colorado will choose to vote Democrat or Republican

--President Barack Obama on college loans dur- ing his speech at University of Colorado, Boulder

“

Colorado will be one of the most, if not the most important states in this upcoming election.

10:00 a.m: The Secret Service started allowing people in line to proceed through security onto the green where the stage was set. The Habitat for Humanity team and I shuffled our way into the pavillion with our ‘green print’ tickets - tickets extended towards volunteers for various campaigns throughout the state. While spilling into the green, the Secret Service began to mobilize agents across the field as other Obama aides moved from building to building. I noticed that there was the occasional sniper on the rooftops, which wasn’t as much intimidating as it was unsurprisingly presidential.

1:00 p.m: With the sun still lambasting down on the assembly of Obama supporters, looks of eager excitement had faded into exasperation. I could tell the older couple next to me had begun to feel the heat as they leaned on the railing for support. The campaign music that got people dancing hours earlier had now solicited groans out of the audience each time a different song started.

After the introductory speeches by Senator Michael Bennet (D), Governor John Hickenlooper and several CU students, President Obama took the podium and the 13,000 spirits lifted in unison.

In his address to the audience, President Obama stressed the importance of grassroots effort to support him - as well as making a few in-between knocks at his opposition, Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan - and ended his speech on a positive note. “...If you’re willing to work with me and knock on some doors with me, make some phone calls with me; if you’re willing to vote for me in November, we will win Boulder and we will win Colorado. We will win this election. We will finish what we started. And we will remind the world why it is that the United States of America is the greatest nation on Earth.”

”

“

Since Colorado’s status is decided by the popular vote within the state, every voter counts..

”

gin for error. These slim differences suggests that for Colorado, and Douglas County (Rock Canyon High School included) there remains

[sachinmathur]

2:00 p.m: As the President finished his speech, he made his way to the front row shaking hands (including this reporter’s!). After Obama left the green, the mass of attendees left looking just as excited - and even more energized - than they had this morning.

Political Glossary

[sachinmathur]

Swing-state: a state in the national election that can go either way for a party.

“Grassroots”: Term used to refer to a campaign that is done through the means of common people.

Canvassing: A grassroots action of going door-todoor to engage with or register voters.

[photo compliments of googleimages]

The Possibilites Sachin Mathur ‘13 takes a picture of Obama during the campaign in Boulder, Co at the University of Colorado on Sep. 2. “ It was exciting to see the President face-to face,” Mathur said.

[sachinmathur] President Barack Obama greets the audience before speaking to a total of 13,000 people at the University of Colorado, Boulder on September 2nd. Obama’s speech emphasized the importance of grassroots campaigning and supporting American students everywhere; “You made the investment in yourself,” Obama said. “I want to make sure America is standing by you every step of the way.”

[photo compliments of googleimages] In Colorado on July 31, Mitt Romney was seen talking to Polish WWII veterans and a survivor of a Nazi concentration camp after laying a wreath at the Warsaw 1944 Uprising monument in Warsaw, Poland. Alik Keplicz/AP. Romney, is running in the race of the upcoming 2012 Presidential Election. He lost some swing states back in July, he is now turning his attention to Colorado and Florida.

A map of the United States and each states respective value in electoral votes; the states in the darker hue are the ‘swing-states’, states that could go either for Romney and Obama and are currently being contested over by both of the campaigns. This includes Colorado.

the Times

12 [9/14/12]

Searching for answers, and finding more questions

the Times

[9/14/12]

13

A look at insights gained from research, reporting, and interviews regarding the current condition of Douglas County Schools and alleged controversy over Board of Education policies

M

y mom has been a teacher my entire life -- and in Douglas County School District for 13 years. I go to school every day, where I interact with teachers constantly, and have built close relationships as the years have progressed.

The world of teachers has always been a big part of my life. In the past few months I have watched the morale of my favorite teachers (my mom included) slowly diminish, and I wondered why.

I decided to begin my investigation by calling the Board of Education directly. But, after two voice mails, four phone calls to the secretary (the only phone number I found on the whole DCSD website), emails to four out of the eight board members, and directly asking for quotes in person at the monthly meeting Sept. 4, I received nothing back from any of the Board members. So, after investigating, here are the conclusions I came to: Problems began when The Board of Education (BOE) decided to get rid of the teacher union, taking with it the Collective Bargaining Agreement (a contract between teachers, and the district).

“The contract between the Union and DCSD sets up rules by which each side will play. It keeps things fair for teachers and most importantly protects students’ learning,” English teacher Kelly Kane said.

Without the contract, the BOE can essentially do whatever it wants, without the permission of teachers, without warning. It seems like this is going to cause (and already has; a record 304 teachers have already left this year so far) a lot of teachers to leave the district.

Second, in an effort to save money, the BOE is trying to persuade older teachers to retire, since it’s the older teachers that are the most experienced and higher paid. After filtering the best teachers out of the district, they are being replaced with brand new (fresh out of college) teachers, whom they can pay next to nothing. Hiring brand new teachers isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but in moderation. When the whole district is comprised of inexperienced, young teachers it makes it impossible for them to learn from experienced teachers, and improve.

Third, “Teachers want to leave Douglas County because they don’t feel valued,” Kane said. “We are here for you guys (students), and it’s hard to be here for you if teachers feel devalued.”

Fourth, in previous years, the district has funded “Professional Development” courses for teachers.

These courses provided additional training and development. In addition, teachers could earn credit towards salary increases by taking these courses; now those are no longer an option. “These classes would energize teachers and bring new ideas. They are no longer an option because we no longer have a relationship between teachers and the district,” Kane said.

This lack of trust also generates a sense of fear, and almost paranoia, among the population of teachers. Many teachers I tried to interview were afraid to talk to me, fearing discipline from the district and for their jobs. This is not the way things should be.

Fifth, I was really curious as to why the term “re-

photos by [kaylaneil]

form” keeps being thrown around, and where it came from. Reform literally means the improvement or amendment of what is wrong. But, we are one of the top districts in the nation, at our school, we are the top preforming public school in the state. So, why do we need reform? Through investigating into this, I found the website alec.com. This organization is trying to “reform” the American education system through privatizing schools. Student fees this year are already upwards of $700, and this could only make it worse.

What’s the point in a “free public school education” if it’s costing this much?

If going to school every year is costing nearly $1,000 parents may stop being able to afford it, meaning the district will lose students, thus losing funding from the state (which DCSD gets depending on how many students are enrolled), making the problem that much worse.

The way I see it, if the BOE knows that these rumors are flying around, and if they are as significantly untrue as they claim, then in theory the Board should want to clear things up for me, right?

The night before this deadline, I received an email from a board member, and superintendent Liz Fegan.

I look forward to speaking with them and continuing my investigation, which you will be able to find on the Rock website, Rockmediaonline.org and in the next print issue of the Rock.

For your own investigation, check out: -DCSD website -ParentLEDreform.org -Parentsforreform.com -SPEAK for DCSD on Facebook -StrongSchoolsCoalition.com

[kaylaneil]

Protesting in Peace

Sept. 4 an estimated 200 teachers, students, and community members gathered to protest recent Board of Education decisions affecting schools

Parents were steamed, students were confused, and community members were supportive in front of the DCSD headquarters before the monthly Board of Education meeting Sept. 4 outside the Wilcox Building in Castle Rock.

As people drove by, honking and shouting out their windows, protesters carried various signs, while some handed out a petition to stop Board decisions.

“We want our students to be well-rounded whole people, and these changes are antithetical to that,” a retired Eagel Academy teacher said, “We want our kids to be critical thinkers, and it’s going

DCSD By the Numbers Take a look at the statistics regarding money, salaries, and teachers across the district

[cambelwinkler]

2% $2.8 million

$280,350

The raise each Douglas County staff member will / year receive this year, ending a The salary of superintendent Fegan, 4-year total pay freeze which is cost of the bonus to the school district

51

approx.

6

Years since DCSD began in 1961 times the average DCSD teacher with the opening of Douglas County salary, of $45,000/year High School

According to DenverPost.com

to be tough for them to do that with a corporate model of education.”

“If you want the best in education, you’ve got to pay for the best teachers. And that’s what the last superintendent in the district did, and all of a sudden we went from 170th in the state to sixth, by paying better with better working conditions, and then became a nationally recognized district,” a Mtn. Ridge Middle School retiree and 25-year veteran said. “You gotta take care of the kids, of course, but you’ve gotta take care of the teachers too.”

9.8% 304

42%

Of the total population of teachers in DCSD left the district this past year Increase in amount of teachers leaving number of teachers the district from last year who left DCSD

11 84

Teachers were laid off

Teachers retired

According to the DCSD public records

The percentage the district’s rating dropped in one year: 78.7% to 72.4%

6.3% 19.3%

The drop in “Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness”from 91.7% to 72.4% in one year According to DCSD CEDAR report

the

14 [09/14/12]

Caught in the Crossfryer When waffle fries come with a side of political baggage Tensions are high within the United States of America: it’s a polarized election season, so as we sit and watch as candidates engage in a rousing match of Barack’em Sock’em RomneyBots, there remains a lingering question that the American people, regardless of political, religious, or social affiliation must consider: what should we be upset about this time?

“The chicken sandwich,” answered Dr. Stefan Mehander, Department Chair of Emory University’s Food & Politics Studies program. “Dan Cathy’s comments on gay marriage is easily the most controversial moment in food-political history since 1942, when McDonald’s released the McKamikaze nuggets.”

On June 16, when Dan Cathy, as a guest on the Ken Coleman Show, made remarks on how the concept of same-sex marriage was religiously incongruent with his and ChickFil-A’s values, America basically exploded.

On both sides across the nation, people either rushed to the defense of or invoked a relentless assault on the fast food establishment, both completely unaware of how ridiculous this argument actually is.

“It’s an outrage that people are accusing Chick-Fil-A of being intolerant,” said Jeremy Doffler, a supporter at rally in Greeely. “Dan Cathy and Chick-Fil-A were simply expressing their First Amendment right, and I swear on Rush Limbaugh’s greasy forehead that I will die protecting their vision.” said Doffler passionately, and totally not evading the actual issue with the Chick-Fil-A situation in the first place.

“This is what America’s all about,” continued Doffler as he finished ordering at the counter, “It’s about getting together with like-minded people to tear through pounds of crispy, charred, greasy and mutilated bird flesh to prove who we support. This fast food restaurant is the core of American life.”

Manning vs Tebow Who really belongs in Denver?

Even though Tim Tebow is gone and Peyton Manning has been successful as a Denver Bronco, debate still rages on over who should be the starting quarterback in Denver.

Health: Let’s put it this way; Tim Tebow is a spokesperson for Jockey Underwear. Peyton Manning is in Buick commercials and famously cuts meat for VISA. Manning has had four neck surgeries since the last time he played in the NFL, and unlike other older quarterbacks, no pictures have surfaced of him exposing anything south of his neck. That’s good for Manning, but better for Tebow. Tebow 1, Manning 0.

In light of the Chick-Fil-A controversy, people have come to see that the restaurant chain’s product is more volitile than meets the eye.

Opposition to Chick-Fil-A has been just as energized as well, as pro-gay rights protesters all over the nation have assembled to counter the crispy, clucking threat.

“We’re not going to let Chick-Fil-A tell us how to live our lives!” said Bobby Newsome, a protester at the same event in Greeley.

“That dumb chicken-slinging hate shack is wrong. And we are entitled to our First Amendment right to tell them otherwise” claimed Newsome, also oblivious to the fact that this is a freaking fast food restaurant, for cripe’s sake.

“Chick-Fil-A represents everything that is wrong with America. It’s intolerant, it’s disgusting, and the people care more about gorging their bodies with fried chicken and hate than actually being good Americans. I can’t stand them. I hate them. I hate them I hate them I hate them!”

Some politicians and celebrities have also entered the fray. Recently, former Alaska governor Sarah Palin (R) was spotted at a recent Chick Fil A restaurant in the Woodlands, Texas. In light of her appearance, she commented: “It truly is a great thing what Chick-Fil-A

Enough is Enough Walking through the hallways on an average, stuffy school day, I am constantly confronted with a clear and persistent problem. This problem must be stopped at all costs, no longer can it be allowed to fester!

At every place and at every time of day, there are large nuclei of people congregating. Just standing there, in the hallways, corridors, commons and lunch areas, like potted plants. But unlike potted plants, these beings can’t be destroyed with weed killer, or lit on fire, or left to die in the hot sun.

Combined with the severe overcrowding of our school system, those that have even the smallest desire to get to their class on time attempt to move through this congestion in a way that resembles a game of ‘Snake’. A very...very slow moving snake.

That being said, several plans have been brought forth to rectify the situation. One of the most deliciously effective solutions

Take

is doing, y’know, and we’re all Americans here.”

“Todd and I were road-tripping on our way to the snowplow festival in Fargo when I heard about the situation, and right then and there I knew I’d have to plaster my face on it at least once. I haven’t had a sandwich this good since I banned eating chicken in Alaska in 2007; we needed to keep them around for warmth and whale fodder.”

Aside from the partisanship, intolerant rhetoric on both sides, and the fact that Chick-Fil-A is a fast food restaurant and nothing more, Governor Palin has a point.

Perhaps we are all just being Americans, engaging in our ideals of public assembly and ideological discourse, and this is all just stemming from one big, angry fuss: an election season.

“Honestly, I have no idea what’s going on.

I make good money and I work nice hours.

If I get this promotion, too, my boyfriend Pablo and I may even get dental during my employment; then we’ll have cash to plan the wedding. I don’t know why you people care so much.” [sachinmathur]

Throwing Ability: It’s a waste of ink if we actually wanted to debate this. Tebow 1, Manning 1. Adaptation to Altitude: Broncos fans would always give Tebow slack for throwing ducks the seven times he tried. Science shows that the altitude does give off a nasty effect on the football when it comes off of the hand. Yet John Elway, Jake Plummer, and even Kyle Orton found away around it. No excuses Tim. Tebow 1, Manning 2.

Marketing Ability: This is a no-brainer. Peyton Manning sells jerseys. Tim Tebow can sell a man lingerie. Tim might just be the greatest marketer on the planet, (ahead of Lebron and the ShamWow guy.) He might have screwed the Broncos with his talent, but he brought the franchise a hefty profit. There was even a celebration named after him, and even though it wore out its welcome, it took the nation by storm. Now he’s doing the same in New York. As a back-up. Point Tim. Tebow 2, Manning 2.

But who are we kidding? Choosing between Peyton Manning and Tim Tebow is like choosing between backstage passes to the Beatles and general admission to a Rebecca Black concert.

Manning all the way. [michaelshapiro]

Finding a practical (and slightly unconventional) solution to a problem that has plagued high schools since the beginning of time

that has been brought to my attention was first introduced by a small Icelandic Primary School. Rather than continuing to put up with excessive tardies and severe congestion in the school’s corridors, they simply turned off the heating elements for corridors that experienced the heaviest overcrowding.

The result of which was an absolute drop in the number of class tardies, as well as an increase in the frequency at which students could move between classes. A slight increase in the amount of frostbite cases reported to that school’s nurse should be disregarded as mere coincidences.

An associate, by the name of Kim Un Jong Il, a knowledgeable friend and student of the North Korean School for Academics, mentioned that his school had achieved great success with the electrification of that school’s hallway floors. Nothing too major, but rather a mild electric shock that would

increase in intensity the longer one was standing in place. This electric shock would not only ensure the quick moving of students through the corridors, but also helped to reduce any excess electricity created by the nation’s fledgling electric industry.

I have heard that on some mornings, the smell of burning hair overpowers the scent of any body sprays or perfumes.

It should be noted however, that each school maintains a unique position in the herding of their students, and therefore each school district has their own solution to the problem. I for one propose that we use the snowplows (in storage for much of the spring and fall months), to good use - that is plowing through sedimentary students to create “expressways” designed to ease the flow of traffic. This new expressway system could be comparable to the way the Eisenhower Interstate System revolutionized

America!A brighter, easier, and faster future is within our grasp!

As of press time, these ideas are all currently being reviewed by the Rock Canyon Ministry of Internal Transportation. They have yet to come to a decision regarding a possible alleviation to the congestion. [lukehoffmann]

Editorial Policy

The goals of The Rock, the student newspaper of Rock Canyon High School, are to inform, educate, and entertain the readers as well as to provide an educational opportunity for the students who produce it. The Rock is a public forum and welcomes content from our readers.

Tatheke

What Did People Do Before Status Updates?

If we create our identities based on what happens on Facebook, where does that leave us?

That’s What She Syd

By Syd Charvat

What did people do before relationship status updates?

Over the past few months, I’ve found myself asking this question a lot. All of us, myself included, have become so reliant on Facebook updates that we govern our actions solely by the perception they establish on the internet. For instance, wrather than internally process a nasty break-up, we put it on Facebook so that we can be consoled by over 400 of our closest friends. And, although today this may seem logical, why do we feel that we need to find validation in a computer program?

During the Braveheart period (of which I personally call the “seriously dark, dark ages”) letting your friends know that you were in a relationship was as simple as wearing a swatch of plaid fabric to identify your significant other. Then, in seventeenth century New England, it probably consisted of throwing open the door of your cottage and shouting to the next door over that “Martha’s in a relationship with William, the cobbler’s son.”

So, if a relationship used to be worth nothing more than a piece of cloth, or simple word exchange, when exactly did defining a relationship become so complicated?

The other day, when I checked Facebook, about six of my friends had changed their relationship status from single to “in a relationship,” an update that so many teenage girls dream of making. But , when I tried

[sydcharvat] to figure out exactly who it was they had linked their name to (literally), for some reason, I couldn’t find their name.

Now that’s weird isn’t it? You post a status alongside at least three pictures of yourself posing next to this unknown person while swinging on a swing set or pretending to look unsuspecting while they shove food in your face, and yet you refuse to specify who this person even is?

Just as well, I usually come across a few more nondescript posts like “it’s complicated,” which is usually followed by a stream of at least thirty comments such as “Are you okay?”, “Text me” or, my personal favorite, the extremely awkward “like” of the status itself.

But, even after about two hours, and at least six people have begged you to tell them what’s wrong and each time they ask, you

Go for the Gold. Or Else...

Where has the integrity of the game gone?

What happened to the terms “respect the game,” or “winning isn’t everything?”

Maybe we shouldn’t ask what happened, but instead ask ourselves, did they ever mean anything?

Of course not. They are simply cliches.

If today’s professional athletes listened to anything their fathers told them while playing catch in the backyard, maybe we would be talking more about who might win a title in college football this year, instead of who can’t even play for one. Maybe the all-time home run record wouldn’t have an asterisk next to it, or a country wouldn’t have sent gymnasts to the Olympics who had just learned to count to ten a week before competition.

Winning isn’t everything. Today, it’s the only thing.

Take London 2012 as an example. If we can take anything out of the historic London Games, it’s two things. The Chinese showed us exactly how not to play badminton, and that taking human growth hormone in China is just like brushing your teeth or washing your hands.

The young Chinese female swimmer Ye Shiwen

is currently on the edge of Olympic history and Olympicscrutiny.Shedazzledfanswithherperformances in the 200 and 400 individual medley. As her flag was raised on the top of the podium, a red flag was also raised. How could a 16 year-old girl beat the USA’s Ryan Lochte in the last 50 meters of the 400? The debate is on around the world as to whetherShiwenwasdoping,butshestandsbyher innocence.

China has also been known to not take drug testings as strict as some of the other dominating countries in the games. Once the dust clears from the debacle, Shiwen could be known as the kid whocheated,orgodowninhistoryastheWonder Woman of Olympic swimming.

Since there is no proof yet as to whether Shiwen cheated, the Chinese Swimming Federation is just facing allegations. Something their badminton team never faced, because they were busted.

To their credit, the Chinese did think this one through a little bit more. They thought that by throwing their opening matches, they would have had an easier path to the finals by playing weaker teams. Their plan was solid. Execution? Not so much. I recommend looking at the video of their opening

refuse to answer them directly, and instead respond with, “Text me.”

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine broke up with her boyfriend of six months. She’s more of an introvert than not, and rarely updates her Facebook page. So, due to the absence of a “dramatic” posting, I had no idea that they had broken up. After finding out several days later, I told her how sorry I was and how, had I known sooner, I would have tried to help her through it; whether it be a long phone conversation, or a “vent session” over a few pints of Moose Tracks ice cream and a Nicholas Sparks movie.

But, strangely enough, when I tried to comfort her, she just shook her head, “I’m fine,” she said. “We talked about it, and we just deleted the relationship thing from our profile. We’re fine, we talked, and we’re good. It just seemed dumb to post that on the

Bohren’s Ultimatum match. Don’t be surprised if you say, “I played better in gym class,” because you’re probably right. The IOC (International Olympic Committee) immediately recognized the blatant lack of effort, and threw them out of the tournament.

Unfortunately, China looks up to us and strives to beat us at everything they can.

And what example have we set to athletes around the world, other than that hard work and practice isn’t the only way to be the best? We are so caught up in being the best, that too many shortcuts are in place. Some of the greatest athletes we have come to know and love turned into frauds the second they were caught for their crime. That didn’t stop anybody though. It only encouraged cheating.

In a two-week period in August, Major League Baseball suspended All-Star game MVP Melkey Cabrera of the San Francisco Giants, and pitcher Bartolo Colon of the Oakland Athletics, each 50 games for doping. In the past two years, sanctions were handed down by the NCAA to Miami, USC, North Carolina, and Ohio State for numerous scandals.

[09/14/12]

15

internet.”

“It’s nobody’s business,” she went on to say, “It’s between he and I, and we’re goodThat’s all that matters.”

She couldn’t be more right.

In reality, why do we have Facebook relationship updates? As much as we hate to admit it, we use them almost like a code of explanation to showw the world the different stages of our own personal growth: 1) In a Relationship: “Guess what guys?!

I’m in a relationship! Isn’t that awesome?”

2) It’s Complicated: “Well, we’re not really ‘dating’” 3) Single: “Well, the person I dated broke my heart...If you would like to come to my house with casseroles and a shoulder to cry on, it would be much appreciated.”

In the end, we don’t need Facebook to find validation. At one time or another, we all succumb to it; when I was fourteen, I, like many others, took the opportunity to type “single” on the “About Me” tab, in hopes that it would say something about my character: that I was “different”; I was a girl that was proud of being single and who wanted to shout my independence from the mountaintops. But, in reality, it just made me look weak. It made me look like I needed 405 people to tell me that being “single” was okay. To tell me that I was okay.

I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their relationship status, should love and respect themselves. Just as well, they need to understand how people perceive the things that they post on an open forum. A “So and so changed their relationship status from ‘in a relationship’ to ‘single’” can all too quickly turn an incredibly strong person into the exact opposite all with the click of a mouse.

I think we’re better than that.

By Andrew Bohren It’s pretty easy to say that as Americans, we haveawinningattitude.Butformanyathletesand sports organizations, defeat is never an option.

That’s not necessarily something to frown upon, butthereisafinelinebetweenearningvictoryand using training wheels to get there.

The end to this phenomenon is unclear, and I have a hard time seeing it end anytime soon. The integrity of sports is threatened by two elements, greed and chemistry. For owners, athletes, and especially college boosters, greed overpowers all judgement and the mindset of being the best takes over.

It’s also the twenty-first century, meaning that there have been numerous advances in science since the days of short-shorts and leather helmets. Steroids are becoming much more accessible to athletes, and becoming more abundant every year.

I have hope that this era of a lack of integrity will come to an end. But until then, there continues to be athletes and sports managers alike that continue to ride their careers on a tricycle.

Not everyone can ride a two-wheeler.

the

Take

16 [09/14/12]

Putting on a Pretty Face Running Erins

A detailed account of the brilliant insight that having surgery did not give me

By Erin Snyder

Over the summer, I had jaw surgery. Adorable, I know. Before the surgery, I couldn’t close my mouth (yes, go ahead and laugh about that for a minute). I could stick my tongue out without opening my teeth.

Which, despite being a brilliant party trick, is apparently not what orthodontists recommend. Long story short, the surgeon broke my jaw in six places. I now have metal in my cheek bones and had over a hundred dissolvable stitches along the top and bottom of my gums. The surgery was six hours long and I spent two nights in the hospital (the first in ICU). I had a stunning splint wired to my top teeth which was like having modern art in your mouth. I had to eat and drink out of a syringe and dropped ten pounds in a week. My face was swollen far beyond the intensity that the average wisdom-teeth removal victim can comprehend. The side of my face was completely bruised. My hair was insufferably tangled because washing it was a feat, and brushing it was simply not happening. I was dizzier than I had ever been in my life for two weeks straight from all the meds I was on. My sleep schedule was turned around from staying in the hospital and it took me days to stop falling asleep at four in the morning and waking up at noon.

Lots of people texted me wonderful things but I couldn’t reply without feeling like passing out.

This is probably the part where I should tell you all of the life lessons that I learned from spending six weeks of summer break in my house watching Friends reruns and

[sydcharvat] looking like a beat-up Dr. Seuss character. I should tell you that I found inner peace, that being nearly isolated for weeks was really good for me (a nod to my friends here, who were with me as much as humanly possible.

However, it was still a long time to stay in your house). I should tell you that not being able to eat gave me insight to the plights of the millions of malnourished children and adults in our world. I should tell you that I found peace with God, that I would do it all again just for the spiritual revelation. I should tell you that looks don’t matter, that it’s what’s on the inside that counts.

But I would be lying.

The best way I can describe it was that it was okay. I was very grateful to have the surgery and also grateful that everything went well. I had a great support system, and my parents and I got along miraculously

well despite the stress of the whole thing.

However, I did not find inner peace, at most I found inner tolerance. Nothing miraculous came out of my recovery time other than the fact that I was able to handle it. It wasn’t brilliant, it wasn’t picturesque, but I got through it. That said, it wasn’t easy. I was a crazy emotional mix of being thrilled that the surgery was over and miserable at the hands of a seemingly endless recovery.

While I did have some spiritual development, I’ve had far deeper experiences when my face was not broken. I did think about the people of the world who never have anything to eat, but I thought a lot more about how low my blood sugar was. I was tired of being lonely, tired of feeling like I was on a tilt-a-whirl and tired of being tired. I felt left out of life, like the only one that didn’t get invited to the party. Looking in the mirror

`O Brother, Where Art Thou?

In my time as a teenager, I never really cared about relationships or other people who were engaged in them. For the most part, other girls were either boring and uninteresting to me, or I was boring and uninteresting to them. And I never really cared about the dating lives of my friends. When a friend of mine went through a bad breakup, all I had to offer was the obligatory ‘Are you alright, dude?’ text and that was that.

It was a sufficiently safe way of roaming through the complex and seemingly stressful life of high school with a relationshipproof poncho.

And then I met her, and I liked her.

And she liked me.

As these things go, after several months of the ‘will they or won’t they?’ adventure, we ended up together. I was happy and I was excited to see what lay ahead of us; our birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Wish Week and Prom came and went with success, and I was excited for summer. But come about early August, with the strain of college pursuits, understandable strife in other personal relationships, and her drifting apart

from me, she left me. Shocked and blubbering like a baby seal, I went home the night of the break-up defeated. I knew it would be a long sequence of days until school started.

I thought the grief process only happened to people when a loved one died, not when somebody up and left, but the human body says otherwise; the term psychological professionals use is ‘acute reactionary depression’, and it lasts for an indeterminate amount of time.

The first part of the week or so is the worst. You can barely eat anything, sleeping is either all you do or is completely nonexistent, and every little thing reminds you of the person you had just been with no more than a week before. It helped a little to connect with my family, and talk, and write, and basically do anything to take my mind off things, but there’s only so much one can do once the shock fades and the reality of a loss sinks in.

And it sinks in hard. I spent the next three or four days trying not to lose my temper, constantly on the edge; the smoldering certainly wasn’t healthy, but at that point trying

was far from encouraging.

Looks do matter. But not in the way that we think. My friends didn’t call to ask how funny I looked. They called to ask how it went, how it felt and when they could come over to watch Tangled and eat ice cream. But they couldn’t be there the whole time. When life punches you in the face, and you’re on too much morphine to punch it back, it’s really important to know how to love yourself.

Feeling attractive sometimes makes that a lot easier. Unfortunately, that’s not always an option. I can’t pretend that I can find complete self-validation that doesn’t involve my appearance, but I can tell you that I’m working on it. And that if you, like me, judge yourself way more than others judge you, you’re not alone.

Breaking up, the grief process, and the bromance of it all

to fight it would just stoke the fire.

The days rolled by as a blur, but school finally started and it felt better to be back in the swing of things, despite some lingering uneasiness.

And then suddenly, I had a comrade.

A friend of mine had also underwent a break-up under similar circumstances, and I immediately recognized the same symptoms in him: loss of appetite, anxiety, and the inability to take his mind off things. So I did what I did what I could - we spoke, I gave him the advice that I had been given by others, and for the first time in a long time, I had invested myself in a friend’s emotional process. And as I became more open, my friends invested in mine. Friends who I hadn’t really sat down and spoken to in ages were doing just that with me, and people were inviting me to spend time with them, and I felt my post-break up ego reinflate again.

It was said best in my AP Literature class: males need to feel needed. As a human man, we possess the innate desire to be there to provide, to invest ourselves in other people.

So when I could no longer invest myself in her anymore, I had decided to invest myself in my other activities, my college search, and my friend who had gone through the same as I. And because I invested myself in somebody, I gained a greater sense of camaraderie and finally felt needed again. So if this little piece of writing is anything, it’s a thank you note. I probably don’t tell my friends I appreciate them enough, but after investing myself in a friend and my friends investing in me, I probably should. My friends will constantly make fun of me, offer to get me inebriated on the weekend, or try to set me up with some other girl, and I’ll always say no. But honestly, I’m just grateful they ask.

Sachin Such

By Sachin Mathur

the Take

The Freshman Complex

[09/14/12]

A Nicole for your Thoughts

17

By Nicole Cassou

We were all freshmen once, maybe it’s time to remember that To the majority of the student body, freshman are viewed as the equivalent of helpless, lowly baby seals, anxious to break their noses above the thrashing surface that is high school. In contrast, the seniors are perceived as the lethal polar bear, top of the food chain, beyond the humble standards that these seals live by.

Perhaps this metaphor is a cliché, but it does hold truth to the unspoken social divisions that our fellow students foster.

Many would never even begin to fathom the possibility that we could learn something from such underlings, but these baby seals do in fact provide many lessons that their superiors could learn from.

After observing the class of 2016’s eager and flustered faces flooding the halls of Rock Canyon, I began to pick out the expressions of nonchalance displayed on their elders’ experienced faces. Not too long ago these confident people had the same looks of excitement at the promise of a new chapter in their lives. The change that the class of 2016 is undergoing cultivates a type of vulnerability which allows for new opportunities that would not have taken in different situations.

This feigned indifference of many upperclassmen only intensify feelings of boredom and restlessness, making afflictions such as senioritis flourish in the midst of the excitement and promise of meeting new people, trying different clubs and sports, and putting ourselves out there in the face of change and new possibilities.

Up until junior year, my high school universe was very small. I had my classes and swimming, and that was essentially it. I limited myself to my these two areas as I feared I wouldn’t be able to handle having more on my plate in addition to eight practices a week, and quite frankly was too comfortable in my secured bubble. At the start of junior year I became involved in Newspaper and Young Democrats, and later National Honor Society. These new activities made me feel like a freshman once more, causing a flurry of excitement and nerves about the prospect of new challenges, friendships, and opportunities, making Rock Canyon an exciting place once more.

It is quite possible that if our upperclassmen could grow as much as the freshman, our community would become more connected, progressive, and consequently more productive as a whole.

Perhaps some of us truly are “over” high school, and can’t wait to get out of our school’s overcrowded halls. But why just go through the motions for seven hours a day instead of opening ourselves up to new possibilities and embrace them, much like the freshman class is experiencing in an unknown environment? While we’re here, we might as well make the most of the time we’re required to spend in the taupe colored walls that are Rock Canyon.

By the time we reach junior or senior year many of us become creatures of habit: the same friends, the same clubs, the same

Red YOLO Cup

[liamkelley] sports, and the same attitude. But is showing interest in something new or different such a nuisance that we must restrict ourselves to the same groups of friends, interests, and opinions? We don’t have to wait for college to mix things up.

So break out from your identity a little.

Venture into the uncharted waters that is the homeland of the baby seals and channel your inner freshman; don’t go back to the braces or awkward insecurities, but show

some enthusiasm about something new, talk to people you would never have considered as a friend before, and explore every opportunity high school has to offer.

For the remainder of your time here at Rock Canyon, don’t let your ability to learn and develop be limited to the classroom, and maybe consider taking a note from the baby seals instead of eating them.

Saying YOLO before you take a risk doesn’t necessarily mean you’re living life to the fullest...In fact, it actually means quite the opposite

It’s a quiet summer night as you pull into a comforting suburban Highlands Ranch neighborhood around 11:30 PM. The midJune breeze and emptiness of the streets helps to calm your nerves while you ponder what’s to come of the night ahead of you.

You’ve got nowhere to be, yet you know where you’re going and you’re not sure exactly if you want to be there.

The further in you drive, the more parked cars you start to see lining the pebbled asphalt road and the curiosity begins to fester in you. Deeper and deeper, the street becomes claustrophobic with parked cars and you realize that you’ve arrived. Almost mindlessly, you follow the army of teens into a crowded house where you’re bombarded by a cloud of sweat, heat, beer, and noise that completely drowns out your senses.

Pushing past the ocean of familiar and unfamiliar faces, you make your way to the drink table where one thing catches your eye: a red, plastic cup filled with a miscellaneous alcohol and the letters Y.O.L.O. scribbled in Sharpie on the side. As soon as you see it, it has disappeared into the hands of a

disoriented and crazed high school girl who quickly consumes the liquor to the warming admiration of her peers.

If you have been around this school long enough, or even talked to any tiresome partier, you’ve probably heard the term YOLO, an acronym for “You Only Live Once.”

Made famous by hip-hop artist Drake in his song, ”The Motto”, the expression has spread like wildfire in the halls of RCHS. Essentially, it’s a recycled version of the old Latin saying carpe diem, or seize the day, a positive message to make sure that your life is not wasted and that you take all opportunities given to you.

So what’s the problem? The problem is that this idea that was meant to build a positive and constructive lifestyle has been twisted to simply encourage a culture that thrives on a glorified view of partying. Music videos, TV shows, the general majority of modern pop culture centers on partying, which has an overwhelming influence over the youth. This influence even goes to the extent that kids come up with clever alliterations, such as Wasted Wednesdays, to

identify that they will be drinking throughout the day.

Don’t be mistaken, I don’t mean a celebration or friendly get-together when I say party: I mean a full blown frenzy of people and illegal activity that too many high schoolers are extremely well known for. It’s all you hear about on a Friday night after a long week of studying and working hard; a let-loose to release the pent up energy that undoubtedly gets the best of all of us.

Now, it’s not as if partying is some new craze sweeping over the masses of teens in the US like every other fleeting fad that cycles through, but YOLO certainly is. The common justification is that if one was to die tomorrow, they would not want their life to have been boring, so they don’t hesitate to do things that may be frowned upon socially or morally, such as drinking heavily or hooking up with a stranger.

Bringing that justification to light, if that person were to die the next day, then by their own constitution they would be remembered for the prestigious and unique talent of ‘partying.’ Why not use the

deadline of death to actually do something productive with life, like helping someone in need, or contributing to the progression of society? After all, you do only live once.

In my mind, there isn’t much wrong at all with partying and having a good time to release the stress of everyday life, but it shouldn’t be what you want to be remembered for. You get one life, why waste it?

Maybe that cliched girl at the party will think about this when she takes her next sip. “Red YOLO cup, I lift you up, let’s have a party.”

Lis-ten to Tristan

By Tristan Sager

Bthe eat

18 [9/14/12]

Rock Reviews

A student’s guide on what to see, where to shop, where to eat and what to download.

Finding a Pair of Jeans that are

This past week, I went on a mission to find, not only the perfect pair of jeans for the start of the school year, but to find them at such a fantastic price, that I could easily buy two or three pairs with the money that I had allotted for my back-to-school shopping.

Eager to kick off my shopping vendetta with a new adventure, I decided to wander into the newest addition to the Park Meadows Mall, Madewell, and try my luck at their infamous Denim Bar. Upon walking into the store on opening day. I was surrounded by at least forty other deal-finding hopefuls and a variety of “Grand Opening” favors and gifts. So, I happily grabbed a beautifully decorated mini-bundt cake from the display at the front and began to walk the store.

Their merchandise is very similar to their sister store, J.Crew, but also has an Urban Outfitters quality about it that is extremely evident in their quirky use of things like aged clocks and timepieces as the basis for jewelry designs. They feature an extremely diverse collection, from light and airy sundresses, to luxurious leather wallets and bags, and even a pair or two of combat boots.

But once I wiped my hands clean of my midmorning treat, I immediately delved into what I regard to be the store’s signature, the Denim Bar. Lying atop a sixteen foot long table were fifteen different pairs of jeans ranging in a wide variety of style, length and size; all of which were incredibly cute and like no other pair of jeans I had seen before.

Finding a Premium Rush

Dodging cars, cabs, open doors, and the grouchy pedestrians of New York is the average day for Wilee, a bike messenger, aptly named after Wile E. Coyote. Joseph Gordon Levitt stars in this fast paced, action packed bike movie. Taking on a different approach in saving the day from The Dark Knight Rises,Levitt delivers in Premium Rush.

Wilee puts his life in danger time and time again being a crazed bike messenger; he’s the type of guy who absolutely refuses to put brakes on his bike and work in an office all day with a 9 to 5 job. He lives for the rush of riding his bike through the dangerous streets of New York City, caring less if he ends up with a concussion the next

The denim itself was extremely soft and was washed in such a way that it only highlighted the best parts of your legs, rather than just drawing attention to an unattractive whitewashed smear on your thighs. As per the recommendation of the denim consultant that both guards and oversees Madewell’s claim to fame, I decided to try on a pair of the high-rise skinny jeans, the regular dark wash skinny jeans, and a pair of bootcut jeans.

The experience itself was almost surreal, the jeans not only fit me perfectly, but they also felt more like Jeggings than actual pants—something that I think is extremely hard to find, especially since skinny jeans have a knack for making me feel like Chris Farley in Tommy Boy. However, as soon as I looked at the price tag, the dream ended. At a standard going rate of $150.00, the jeans were out of my price range by a long shot, and, as a result, I was forced to surrender the jewels of the establishment back to the attendant beside the Denim Bar. I didn’t necessarily leave empty handed, I went shopping with my mom that afternoon, and after purchasing a shirt for her, she gladly gave me the adorable canvas bag that came alongside her purchase for free.

Unfortunately, I failed my mission that day; I didn’t leave with a stockpile of fantastic jeans at red-sticker prices. However, I’m confident that after a few months, once the shock has worn off and a sale rack appears at the back of the store, I’ll find my way back into Madewell, with my canvas tote in hand. [sydcharvat]

day. For him it’s about riding like there’s no tomorrow.

Though, one day takes a turn for the worse when he finds himself cycling for his life, after Bobby Monday (Michael Shannon), wants an envelope that he has to deliver before seven.

This envelope is containing a ticket that Shannon desperately needs to make amendments on his part. With the help of the other messengers, Levitt is able to live up to his standards of a fun, thrilling career while saving his love life and a split family.

This movie will have you on the edge of your seat at times in awe from the action portrayed on the screen and at other times waiting for the story line to pick up. The movie tends to get drawn out a little, and has a very predictable ending. Though, in the end, it’s a good movie pick and you won’t be disappointed. Definitely a movie that is worthwhile to see and it is a good end to summer movies.

This is a great app that is easy to figure out and it shows you your schedule, assignments (that teachers post in the grade book) and your grades. Once you download the app the District ID (QKKYJL) will need to be entered into the settings. What is also nice about this app is that it automatically logs you in every time you open the app!

Dictionary.com App (Free)

Dictionary.com is a wonderful app for any student. Besides having a dictionary, the app also comes equipped with a thesaurus, reference section, flashcard maker and a translator which is perfect to be able to pull up during class to look up the meaning of any word or how to translate the word into another language.

After a recent visit to Yard House, the newest restaurant in The Vistas in Park Meadows Mall, we were left with a new outlook on sports bars.

Despite the muscle straining weight of the front door and the menus the size of an AP Literature text book, the friendly service and unique atmosphere made for an enjoyable Tuesday night dinner.

After skimming through the menu the back page turned out to be a happy hour menus full of half priced appetizers and pizza valid until 6pm on weeknights, score!

After deciding on a margarita pizza and spinach dip, the drink menu became a fascination due to the pages and pages of varieties on tap.

Originating in Long Beach, California, in recent years, Yard House is famous for its yard tall pilsner glasses, a typical American affair for those over 21. Between ordering and receiving food, time was passed admiring the décor of the restaurant. With primarily black interior, a circle of cushy booths, and tall bar tables, the restaurant was scattered with many large flat screen TV’s, some displaying CNN with others containing different sports games.

After eating, and paying a total of $15 for a whole meal, we left Yard House in a good mood, with intent to return.

[kelceybeckman]

[nishikavirmani]

The Top 5 Back-to-School Apps to Download

Infinite Campus App (Free)

Find Your Way to the Yard House

[kaylaneil] [laurenpayne]

Keep your assignments and classes organized with new apps

iStudiezPro ($0.99) or iStudiezLite App (Free)

If you are the type of student that keeps track of all your schoolwork on your phone, this is the perfect app for you! iStudiez provides an electronic planner, and a schedule and calendar for you to keep track of all your assignments and tests on. Alerts can be set to remind you to complete assignments as well.

Schoology App (Free)

This year at Rock Canyon so many teachers are using Schoology to keep track of their class handouts, assignments, quizzes and tests!

This app is really convenient to open up and pull up notes in class as well. You can even take the quizzes and tests from your phone if you can’t get access to a computer.

Sparknotes App (Free)

The Sparknotes App can be a “lifesaver” for any student who needs to quickly reference a book for any class. You can look up any book or literary piece and download it to your library within the Sparknotes app to be able to access it at any time. Each book has a summary and analysis section, character descriptions, plot overview, context, and themes, motifs and symbols sections. [kelceybeckman]

Editorial the

[09/14/12]

19

What Do You Think?

Students share their views on academic integrity and its relevance in today’s world

“Academic integrity is a huge part of my moral code. If you dont know what you need to, it’s your own fault. You shouldn’t have to cheat to get out of it.”

-- Christian Stewart, ‘15

[sydcharvat]

Lies Nutrisystem Never Told Me From weight loss to academics, what really happens when you take “the easy way out” ?

Staff Editorial: In light of the inreasing reports of cheating and academic dishonesty throughout the district, The Rock chose to examine the epidemic as the multi-faceted issue that it truly is.

When things don’t work, we get discouraged. Whether it be attempting to master derivatives in calculus, or trying to figure out how to get a 30 on the ACT; we all reach a point where all we want to do is slam the book shut, and say “I’m done.”

But even when all hope seems lost, sometimes we persevere and invest all of our time and effort into understanding these concepts, and in the end, something finally clicks, and we get it.

However, an overwhelming and steadily increasing amount of people don’t necessarily see it that way. Instead of working to master the material on their own, they choose to give in and take the easy way out.

So, rather than earn their A on their own, they decide to cheat.

Ever since elementary we’ve been told that cheating is “bad”. But, aside from a few instructional videos featuring kids from the 80’s faced with “real world” cheating situations, none of their teachings seem relevant anymore. So, in order to shed some light on the subject, I suggest comparing cheating to something else entirely: fad diets and weight loss solutions.

You can try for as long as you want to eat meal-equivalent cookies, and even go on a strictly monitored dietary plan that only permits you to eat “healthy” junk food on a daily basis, but nothing will ever really stick.

And, after a month or so, you’ll tire of the perscripbed cookies and food, and retreat to a box of Chips A’Hoy and a bag of Lays Potato Chips.

Slowly the weight creeps back on again, and you find yourself lost in figuring out what you did wrong. You read the instructions and you performed the task. Granted, it was easier than working to find a “permanent” solution, but you wanted an easy way out...So why didn’t it work?

The answer is simple: you cheated.

A similar scenario has struck high schools across the country. The problem itself however, isn’t cheating on a diet; it’s cheating to get ahead in school.

According to Education-Portal.com, between 75-98% of college students have admitted to cheating over the course of their academic careers. Alongside that, 74% of high school students that have also admitted to cheating solely to “get ahead” in school.

Every year, the admission requirements to get into our nation’s top schools are becoming increasingly steep. Many schools have attempted to heighten the intensity of the application process by increasing their ACT and SAT score requirements; and refusing to dole out scholarship money to almost anyone that doesn’t speak twelve languages or have an in-depth understanding of quantum physics.

So what do you do in this situation? If you know in your heart that there are thousands of people applying to the same schools you are, and that all of their scores and essays are ten times better than yours, how do you react?

If you know that you’re so unbelievably close to that acceptance letter, and you know that admission to that school is something you’ve talked about since you were old enough to wear college gear, wouldn’t you do anything to make your dream a reality?

At face value, cheating--especially in an area as affluent as Highlands Ranch--seems almost necessary in order to make sure that we’re always considered to be one of “the best”. And, as evidenced by the Cherry Creek

High School cheating scandal last April, cheating does occur outside of the cliche “anti-cheating” videos we all watched in elementary school.

But, although we may be hesitant to accept this reality, we need to acknowledge the fact that we belong to the generation that learned how to speak Spanish before we were three, and whose parents have instilled in us the belief that we need to carry on a line of success and prosperity. We need to be perfect.

In our effort to achieve perfection, suddenly the thought of cheating on a math test doesn’t sound all that bad. The standards have been set so high, that to avoid cheating purely upon moral grouns, seems almost illogical.

But, in the end, cheating only serves to create a vicious cycle. Cheating once on a math exam may seem harmless enough, but it will only serve to open the door to cheating on another test...And another, and another, until eventually, you end up in the same position as the kids in the instructional videos; caught in the act, and waiting to recieve punishment.

However, although cheating has become an unfortunate reality amongst high schools across the country, many people still refuse to acknowledge its existance, and probably will never admit that such acts of dishonesty still occur in schools today.

But, to all of the people who would rather turn a blind eye, I would extend to them another piece of “food for thought,” Cheating is a lot like Lays Potato chips, you can’t have just one.

“Everything we do in life, we do with all our parts. We need to be able to look people in the eye and say we did things with integrity, including academics.”

-- Dean Chris Page “Academic integrity is important because it will help us in the future when we graduate, and it will help us get a job and get into a good college.”

--Brandon Nash, ‘16 “Academic integrity is important to me because once we get into college and the ‘real world’, the work we do is what we making our income off of, and it’s impossible to cheat on that!”

--Ellen Eldridge, ‘14 “To me, academic honesty means you are always doing your own work, under your own knowledge and power. I do not see academic dishonesty as a problem. I believe it is a necessary evil in a world of stress and difficult class work...

It will always be relevant as long as man is wielding his pen, his paper, and his philosophies.”

--Kevin Harris, ‘13 “Academic honesty is making sure that I don’t cheat the system and making sure I get my own grades and don’t rely on others. Academic dishonesty is a problem, but it can’t be stopped because of the laziness of people and not putting in the effort.”

--Jake Sherill, ‘13

[tristansagar] [nicolenewman]

20 [09/14/12]

September - October

SUNDAY

MONDAY 16

TUESDAY 10

WEDNESDAY 11

THURSDAY 12

College Panel Night 6:30 p.m.

23

17

Ruff n’ Tuff & Powder Puff Permission Slips Due to Room 9550.

24

30

Theme: “America, Coast to Coast”

13

Varsity Golf Invitational at the Lone Tree Golf Course 8:00 a.m.

20

19

Random Acts of Kindness Club Meeting During Access in 9000s office.

Varisty Golf Invitational at Castle Pines Country Club 11:00 a.m.

Soccer Game at Shea Stadium 4:30 p.m.

Sophomore Class Meeting 9:15 a.m.

25

26

27

Boys Golf vs. Valor at Lone Tree Golf Course 8:00 a.m.

Picture Retakes 11-1:30 p.m.

1 Ruff n’Tuff Main Gym 7:00 p.m.

Boy’s Varsity Soccer Shea Stadium 4:30 p.m.

“I think the sohpomores are going to have a really great team this year,” Paige Von Bank ‘15 said. “I think we have a good chance of winning.

The seniors are our biggest competition.”

3 Powder Puff Shea Stadium 6:00 p.m.

4

9

The Rock Newspaper Staff

Opinions Editors: Sachin Mathur Andrew Bohren Reviews Editor: Kelcey Beckman Business Editor: Cecilia Castro Guest Commentator: Erin Snyder Guest Artist: Liam Kelley Photo Manager: Cambel Winkler

21 Jaguars Football Game vs. Castle View 7:00 p.m.

15

Poms Car wash at Dazbog 1:00-4:00 p.m.

“I’m really excited about going to my third car wash,” Roxy Navo ‘16 said. “My favorite part about them is holding up the sign on the corner, because I see people I know in their cars and say ‘hi’.”

22

28

Drama Club Meeting 3:00 p.m.

Jaguars Football Game vs. Heritage 7:00 p.m.

10

Reporting

Jacob Battock Ashley Boatman Nicole Cassou Rachel Cuny Luke Hoffmann Natalie Holthaus Linnea Melbye Brandon Reimers

Nicole Newman Lauren Payne Maddie Whitten Tristan Sagar Caitlin Yanchak Quentin Boose Julia Henning

Special Thanks to Lauren Payne for all her help in the making of this issue.

Non-Voting Adviser: Kristi Rathbun

5 Homecoming Assembly

Bonfire 7:15 p.m.

Homecoming Football Game vs. Doherty 7:00 p.m.

11 CHSPA Journalism Convention at CSU 7:00 a.m.

Editor in Chief: Syd Charvat Managing Editor: Kayla Neil News Editor: Virginia Vaughan In-Depth Editors: Mae Rohrbach Bri Cooke Sports Editors: Jeremy Purchase Michael Shapiro

14

Jaguars Football Game vs. Fountain Fort Carson

Homecoming Parade 5:30 p.m.

Outdoor Movie on Baseball Field 8:00 p.m.

8

Editorial

SATURDAY

29 Human Anatomy Cadaver Lab

Fall Play: The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 7:00 p.m.

2

7

FRIDAY

Anime Club Meeting 3:00 p.m. Rm. 5500

18

National Honor Society Meeting 7:15 a.m.

Brits United Club Meeting 7:20 a.m.

Room 3900 Soccer Game at Shea Stadium 6:30 p.m.

No School

HOMECOMING WEEK!

Cathelendar

12

Senior Portraits Due No School Enjoy Your Fall Break!

The goals of The Rock, the student newspaper of Rock Canyon High School, are to inform, educate, and entertain the readers as well as to provide an educational opportunity for the students who produce it.

The first three copies of The Rock are free, additional copies are available for 50 cents each.

The Rock invites your comments. Letters to the editor and commentary submissions are encouraged. You are also encouraged to submit coverage ideas, cartoons, photos or anything else you wish to see in the Rock. Opinions of the staff are presented as editorials. All editorials are at least the majority view of the editorial board. We also feature a number of columnists and commentary writers. Their opinions are their own. The Rock is a forum and welcomes content from our readers.

Rock Canyon High School 5810 McArthur Ranch Road Highlands Ranch, CO 80124 Phone 303-387-3000/Fax 303-387-3001

6

Homecoming Dance 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

“I’m excited for Homecoming week because I think it brings the school together,” Hannah Peterson ‘13 said. “Plus teachers usually cut back on homework that week.”

Mark Your Calendar

• Seniors: Don’t forget to

schedule your senior meetings!

• September 17: Principal

Student Advisory Council application availible online • October 12: Senior portraits due to Yearbook (see the website or contact Kristi Rathbun) • October 23: Senior class meeting • October 24-25: Parentteacher conferences

[sydcharvat] [kelceybeckman][nishikavirmani] [nicolenewman] [lukehoffmann]