The Sidekick: October 2011

In-Depth pg. 12-13

theSidekick Coppell High School

185 Parkway Blvd. Coppell, TX 75019

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Features pg. 11 Sports pg. 22 www.coppellstudentmedia.com

Vol. 23 No. 1

October 2011

Jasso looks to ‘make it happen’ in return to CHS From Haltom Buffalo to Coppell Cowboy Ben Cowlishaw Staff Writer

This year, Mike Jasso will demonstrate his policies and ideas for Coppell High School.

As he finds a way to fill former principal Brad Hunt’s size 13 shoes, he is also searching for creative ways to make CHS his own.

Jasso began his time as CHS principal this year after serving as principal in Birdville ISD at the middle school and high school levels, where he is said to have made a positive impact.

“He brought a positive ‘can do’ attitude to both Watauga Middle School and Haltom High School,” Birdville ISD Communications Officer Mark Thomas said. “He is well organized and a good campus leader. BISD was sad to lose him as a leader and a friend. BISD’s loss is Coppell’s gain.”

As the new Assistant Superintendent, Hunt is excited for the new principal and is encouraging him to continue some of the programs already installed at CHS.

see Jasso on pg. 2 Photo by Brian Hwu

To see more go to Coppellstudentmedia.com

Jasso became the new principal of CHS when former Principal Brad Hunt got the job as Assistant Superintendent for Coppell ISD.

All is well for Harry Potter fans Larson kicks off season as new quarterback Tolu Solako Staff Writer

Rewind 10 years to Nov. 16, 2001 when millions of kids around the world wear their best black polo blouses and appropriately colored house ties. Boys draw their best lightning scar on the right side of their forehead while girls try their best to look like 11-year-old Hermione Granger.

Kids of all ages drag their parents to the nearest theatre to watch the worldwide phenomenon of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”

Fast forward to July 15, 2011 when teenagers drive to Cinemark Vista Ridge or AMC Grapevine Mills Theatre to wait outside for more t han two hours for the end of the movie series.

Students sit through the movie in costumes similar to those from 10 years ago, and before they know it, tears are streaming down their faces as they realize the story that they grew up with has come to an end.

“I believe that I was 8 years old when I read the first book, I remember this because on my 11th birthday, I checked the skies for owls carrying Hogwarts acceptance

Chase Porter Staff Writer

Photo by Brian Hwu

With the release of the final Harry Potter film, the Harry Potter era has come to an end.

letters,” CHS 2010 graduate Elisa Farrell said. “It wasn’t until after I caught up with all the books that had been published that I realized how much I was looking forward to the rest.”

“I checked the skies for owls carrying Hogwarts acceptance letters.”

-Elisa Farrell, CHS graduate

The series has had its ups and downs; from critics of Rowling’s work saying it was a book of witchcraft in the form of a child novel to its receiving multiple awards including the British Book Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.

“There are a lot of characters

that you can relate to; like I know where Luna comes from, I know how it feels to be a Hermione,” senior Christina Wagner said, “They were such great characters and there were elements in all of them that anyone could relate to.”

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was first on shelves in 1997 when many students at CHS were between the ages of 1 and 5. J.K Rowling invented another universe that children all over the world wanted to enter. No matter how many times kids tried to run through Platform 9 ¾, the world of Hogwarts could only be entered through reading the words on the page. “[The Harry Potter series] means a lot to me because it’s a great story, and I have a connection with the characters,” sophomore Lauren Lason said. “I feel

see Harry Potter on pg. 16

For the past couple of years, the Coppell Cowboys football team has been a major force within the North Texas football community. Already three games into the season, the Cowboys have been able to uphold that reputation with new starters, including a new quarterback.

Senior Jake Larson started his quarterback career as far back as 8-year-old peewee football and has been gaining experience ever since. Now, Larson has adopted the position as our starting quarterback after being placed as last years back up

behind CHS 2011 graduate Joe Minden.

“Jake knows all the same stuff as Joe did he just didn’t get as many reps,” head football coach Joe McBride said. “He still has to grow and gain experience like any other quarterback has to.”

McBride and Larson agree the quarterback transition has been extremely smooth. With Larson’s experience in a few of the games during last years season and having the chance to watch the past quarterbacks in games and practice, has given Larson the confidence he needs to perform well this season.

see Larson on pg. 21

Photo by Jodie Woodward

Senior Jake Larson assumes the position of quarterback for the Cowboys’ 2011 football season.

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october 2011

New administration adapts to old traditions continued from pg. 1

“I obviously have a strong personal connection with the high school, but I am really looking forward to seeing what Mr. Jasso does,” Hunt said.

While Jasso intends to continue many traditions that Hunt oversaw, such as the SPUR mentoring program and the “I Rock CHS” shirts, he is also actively exploring possible new programs and ideas for the school.

One of Jasso’s largest focuses is the immense diversity in our school. Our students and teachers represent several nationalities, ethnicities and creeds, one of CHS’ proudest qualities. The integration and appreciation of all cultures can prove to be a challenge, but is one that Jasso has accepted” “We need to find new ways to expose our students to all of the many cultures we have at Coppell High School,” Jasso said. “I feel it is very important that students understand others’ backgrounds.

Everyone comes from a different home.”

Junior Ragho Chamkura agrees that exploring our school’s ethnic diversity is an important focus.

“With all of the different nationalities represented here, it’d be great if we could learn more about one other,” Chamkura said.

Hunt is supportive and encouraging of Jasso’s direction of focus.

“The exploring of our students’ diversity is extremely important. It’s a subject I’ll be focusing on even at the district-wide level,” Hunt said.

Although Birdville ISD and Coppell ISD are different in a number of ways, Jasso is confident that the transition between the two will be fast and easy.

“Haltom High School is very different in that the students come from mostly low socioeconomic backgrounds,” Jasso said. “Here in Coppell, where we serve a majority of middle upper-middle class, we have a large percentage of graduates going to major universities.”

The many different academic options students have play a large part in what makes CHS unique to some other area high schools.

“We also have different acceleration programs such as the academies and the [International Baccalaureate] program that allow students to develop their interests and goals for their futures early,” Jasso said.

Jasso is also turning his attention to finding new ways to reward students who excel in the different programs at the high school. In addition, he is looking into ways to make CHS have a more welcoming atmosphere.

a Q&

“As part of my larger goal of establishing relationships with the students at a personal level, students need to feel more welcome in

the school, which will also go hand in hand with our focus on students’ cultural diversity,” Jasso said. “Students also respond well to reward

Mike Jasso has previously served as a CHS assistant principal and has now taken on the role of Principal.

Photo by Brian Hwu

and being made to feel good about what they have accomplished.”

Assistant Principal Jeremy Varnell sees this focus in Jasso as a large part of his approach to CHS. “Although Mr. Jasso isn’t as gregarious as Mr. Hunt, he is really interested in making a positive difference in students’ lives,” Varnell said.

Before Hunt’s departure, a major focus of his was on trying to turn the current seven-period day into a block, A/B, or similar kind of class schedule. Jasso also believes that while it is something to look into, the implementation of a block schedule is not likely in the near future.

“If it comes to the table, I would definitely be open to changing the schedule, but in my first few years as principal, it is not likely to happen,” Jasso said. “At this time, it financially isn’t an option for the district, but it will potentially be a focus later down the road.”

Jasso is very optimistic and enthusiastic about taking the role as principal of CHS. “Coppell is great place. It’s unlike any other place I’ve ever been, and I’m blown away by how welcoming people are,” Jasso said. “I’ve got large shoes to fill. Mr. Hunt was a great principal, and I believe that if I am given a chance, students and teachers will learn to appreciate my style of doing things.”

with Principal Mike Jasso

Q: What’s your favorite food?

Q: What’s your favorite animal?

A: My favorite animal would probably be a dog. I have two dogs and they are great companions for me.

A: Favorite food would probably be a combination of pizza and burgers.

Q: Childhood cartoon?

A: Super friends. (Justice League) - I wanted to be the Flash.

Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?

A: Probably to eat greasy, unhealthy food, but I have to watch what I eat. Other is just sports, anything that’s around me, especially CHS stuff.

Q: Coke or Pepsi?

A: Diet Coke.

Q: What is something most people don’t know about you?

A: Most people do not know that I’m quite passionate. Passionate about the people around me and I’m very sentimental, it kind of relates to that passion.

october 2011

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Graphic by Brian Hwu

Administrators implement plan for open enrollment Kelly Stewart

Opinions Editor

Coppell Independent School District elementary schools are seeing some new faces this year with the help of open enrollment.

Open enrollment, implemented by the board of directors to increase enrollment in Cottonwood Creek and Town Center elementary schools, allows students who do not live within district boundaries to attend Coppell schools. The offer is open to all elementary school students who live in the City of Coppell, and 68 students have already taken advantage of this decision since it was made in the spring of 2011. “[This plan] allows students in the K-fifth grade that live in the City of Coppell, but outside of CISD, the opportunity to attend our schools,” Assistant Su-

perintendent Brad Hunt said.

“Often these children play sports, attend church and other community activities with our students.

So this gives them the opportunity to attend school with the same students they know from other community activities.”

The district also made this plan in an effort to keep teachers, as some would have been let go if all of the spots for students were not filled.

“Open enrollment was proposed by our Business Assistant Superintendent,” Open Enrollment Administrator Kim Graham said. “And he did it to increase efficiency … and maximize the enrollment capacity of the [elementary schools], and because the gross neighborhood capacity had slowed down and … the number of elementary school children in the neighborhood has decreased from past years.”

Some rumors have been circulating that the new students’

families will have to pay tuition for their children to go to school in CISD, but according to the Assistant Superintendent for Business Sid Grant, this is not true.

“[This plan] allows students in the K-fifth grade that live in the City of Coppell, but outside of CISD, the opportunity to attend our schools.”

-Brad Hunt, Assistant Superintendent “Our additional revenue comes from the state of Texas.

We receive money throughout the year from the state,” Grant said via email. “Approximately $400,000 [is expected] per year.”

As for the 68 new students, they will be allowed to attend CISD schools throughout middle school and high school if they wish, which means that in a few years CHS will be seeing new fac-

es that might not otherwise have attended this school. But the 68 free spots that the district needed to fill will also be available for the middle and high school level as well.

There are a few other requirements that must be met, besides living in the city, for a child to be considered eligible.

These include having proof of a 95 percent attendance rate for the previous semester, passing all classes for the previous semester and currently, having passed all parts of the latest state test and having no more than one infraction on their disciplinary record.

For parents who are wondering, open enrollment may not be offered next year; it depending on the number of spots available in the elementary schools.

“The board will re-evaluate toward the end of this school year,” Hunt said. “To determine if we will continue to accept new students.”

To qualify for open enrollment, the child must: 1. Live in the City of Coppell 2. Have proof of a 95% attendance rate for the previous semester 3. Be passing all classes for the previous and current semester 4. Have passed all parts of the latest state test 5. Have no more than one infraction on their disciplinary record

Summer reading puts the classics on the shelf Erica Rhode Staff Writer

Of course summer reading lists are always going to change here and there. But we are taking our leap into the 21st century. It’s time to read about it.

As summer vacation came around, most juniors, as well as students from other grade levels, returned to the CHS website to take a look at the summer reading lists. One book in particular looked interesting. Required by both the AP and AP GT English III classes, the teachers wanted the book to play a prominent role in student’s lives as they reached the upcoming school year.

Since the early 90s, the school systems have become increasingly complex with large-

scale curriculums and GPA scales, pushing us into creating our 21st century American “Overachievers.” The book focuses thoroughly on the academic pressure for students all over the country. Author Alexandra Robbins shadows students of all types; the perfectionist, the superstar, the popular girl, the workhorse, the slacker and many other characters students or their peers can identify with.

“There’s somewhat of a struggle with finding nonfiction books for the students,” AP English III teacher Tracy Henson said. “We always need to find something that is relevant and interesting to high school students. So much of it just is not, like biographies of people or events that they just do not care

about. When something like the ‘The Overachievers’ comes along, it is their life.”

Henson, having viewed the stressed of students hoped to enlighten them with complex arguments and heavy topics, highlighted the importance of nonfiction books for junior year.

“I did not put the book into my curriculum expecting it to change anything,” Henson said. “Through all of the books we chose, we want to prepare the students as juniors for the real world, speaking about heavy topics and really learning to think.”

It is “The Overachievers” in particular that have caught the district’s as well as the students’ eyes.

Head librarian Lex Anne Seifert had helped create the

summer reading lists. But ultimately this was a decision for the teachers to make.

“At the junior level, you focus on nonfiction,” Seifert said. “You are looking at persuasive writing; you are learning how to argue. That is the importance of these books and the curriculum.”

CHS junior Nikki Dabney was definitely persuaded by the required reading; in fact, she was inspired.

“I loved the book,” Dabney said. “Personally, I feel like I balance my life, but I could definitely relate to Audrey, the perfectionist. That’s me. I have never read a book that tells a story but was informative. It just really opened my eyes to everything.”

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october 2011

New scoreboard builds exciting atmosphere for season Kristen Shepard Staff Writer

Home of tradition and countless memories, Buddy Echols Field is more than just a stadium to the thousands of parents, students and faculty that attend home games. This football season, there is more than a typical scoreboard on the field.

As the result of the $600,000 bond project proposed four years ago, the cutting edge technology that makes up the new board is undoubtedly an upgrade from the old scoreboard. With dated technology, the old board required constant updates and expensive adjustments, making it a nuisance to both the athletic department and frustrated fans and players.

Other than the obvious improved appearance of the board, it has several features placing it among the best among area high school venues. With an integrated LED screen, optimized for live HD video, the scoreboard has similar qualities of the jumbotron recently installed in Cowboy’s Stadium. In addition to the board, CISD installed a state-ofthe-art control room, containing the latest technology for running the system.

Many CHS extra-curricular programs are already anticipating opportunities the new board provides.

“Other than the football team, I am confident the fans in

the bleachers and our support groups: the drill team, band and their parents will really appreciate all the new scoreboard has to offer,” CISD Athletics Director John Crawford said.

Outside Coppell’s athletic programs, the expanded capabilities of the new board provide numerous opportunities for the Coppell student media programs.

With a program run almost completely by students, KCBY junior sports director Davis DeLoach experiences the technology first hand. After attending a camp provided by electronics manufacturer Daktronics, DeLoach accepted an official CISD employment position.

During home games, DeLoach, along with other selected students, will be operating the switchboard. In sync with the switchboard, three cameras offer diverse angles of the field and are switched using a tri-caster.

“I’ll be able to gain a lot of experience from this job and it will be a great addition to my resume,” DeLoach said. “This is a step up from what I have done before and a great addition to our stadium and our already topranked 5A program.”

Unfortunately, UIL rules prevent live broadcasting of football games on the same day of the game, with the exception of a complete ticket sellout 48 hours prior to the game. Despite such restrictions, the cutting edge tech-

nology allows for improvements in the footage posted online.

While the recent update is surely a luxury, the scoreboard’s lofty price tag proposes a slight controversy. Its installment poses the question: Can our district afford this upgrade?

Specifically, the scoreboard project was introduced as part of a district improvement plan proposed four years ago. After being voted upon by the school board, it was decided that the scoreboard was a worthwhile investment.

While the cost may seem unnecessary, the old scoreboard was in need of replacement, and the project will return extra income through advertisements.

Both poster and commercial-style advertising options provide opportunities for local businesses and companies to gain publicity and support CISD. Assuming advertising follows the predicted outcome, the board will generate enough revenue to reimburse the purchase within four to five years, leaving the years to come to generate excess income for the district. So far, several verbal commitments have been made as loyal supporters offer to sponsor the program.

“The board that we had was getting to the point where it would soon become beyond repair,” Crawford said.

As for the other schools in the area, the new scoreboard compares fairly to neighboring

Photo by Rachel Bush

Buddy Echols Field now serves as a home to a brand new jumbotron exciting players and fans during the new season.

technology, like that of Southlake Carroll, Carrollton and Justin Northwest. Other schools have budgeted for similar upgrades as well.

Senior offensive lineman Jake Williams feels similarly about the board.

“Even though you don’t

notice the scoreboard as much while you’re playing, coming from the stands or the sidelines it’s a great addition and an improvement from the old scoreboard,” Williams said. “It will help us maintain the reputation as one of the top programs and teams in the area.”

License Pl8 Mania Graphic courtesy of www.myplates.com/go

License plates add opportunity for school spirit Coleman Armes Staff Writer

Recently, there has been some new fan gear added to support the Coppell Cowboys collection. This is something very different than the usual: not clothes, hats or yard signs.

This will go everywhere. This is the new Coppell Cowboys license plate.

“I am really excited about this new opportunity and can’t wait to showcase how big of a fan I am,” junior Chiaka Ogbogu said.

After Southlake Carroll, Allen and other high schools started selling personalized license plates for their schools, Coppell decided it was their turn to jump in on the action and start selling.

“A few of the Parent Teacher Organization parents asked the school district why we didn’t have any plates when other schools did and [Coppell Independent School District] took their advice and decided to create the license plates,” Coppell ISD Director of Communications and Public Relations Tamerah Ringo said.

After advertising in the spring, the plates are now officially on sale with three options to choose from. The cheapest option

is the design series option. This includes the Coppell Cowboy’s design but instead of personalizing the letters and numbers on the back of the plate it comes with a random set of letters and numbers like a normal license plate.

This option is available for less than $30 per year.

The second option is the custom series. This option include the Coppell Cowboys design plus a three letter and two numbers message. You can receive thi option for less than $33 a year.

The last and most expensive option, but also the option with the most freedom for personalizing the license plate, is the Luxury series option. This includes the Coppell Cowboys design and the ability to make a choice message with six letters and numbers. All of this is available for less than $60 a year.

Some of the money will go to myplates.com but the rest is given to CISD to help support Coppell athletics and the district as a whole.

“When I get one I can’t wait to drive to different places, it will show people where I’m from and that I support my home town team wherever I go,” sophomore Clay Kemp said.

More information is available at www.myplates.com/go/coppell.

october 2011

. . opinions

page 5

: N O C / PRO

Should students and teachers be friends on Facebook ?

P My four years in high school have taught me that the recipe for success in school is defined, simple and one sided. X is given, the problem has been solved and it is easy to achieve if you can master one skill: communication.

Communication with teachers, with students, with administration, you name it - communication is essential. That being said, we can’t get picky about the way communicate.

Facebook, the social networking website, has developed into a terrific tool for finding information, developing relationships and contacting various acquaintances. In an age where everything is available at the literal click of a button, it doesn’t make sense for students and teachers not to take advantage of every communication tool out there.

Opinions of this topic are mixed – opponents fear that innocent teachers will be branded as

&RQÀU

Facebook “horror” stories are very rare.

Teachers are not constantly checking their email.

At one time or another, all of us are guilty of posting something that we regret later.

Whether it be something we post out of anger in the heat of the moment, or something that makes us cringe because of the amount of grammatical mistakes, all of us have wished that we had thought to remove the status or comment, or better yet never to hit “post” in the first place.

Now, imagine that really embarrassing post is thrust into the eyes of your favorite teacher.

See how the awkward factor multiplies?

It is not just college and high school students on Facebook anymore. The collective Facebook addiction has spread to all members of society. Now students and teachers share the same social net-

sexual predators for chatting with students on online, while proponents, such as myself, caution against overreacting to a powerful communication tool.

How many times have students and teachers run into conflicts because they had no easy way to communicate outside of school? We have all heard the ‘I tried to email you, but you didn’t answer,’ or ‘when I got home, I realized something that prevented me from doing my project and had no way to contact you… so I just didn’t do it.’

And while most students aren’t provided with teachers’ personal phone numbers, and teachers can’t be expected to check their email every 20 minutes until midnight, most cell phones come equipped with a Facebook feature that notifies the user every time they are contacted. This quick and easy way of communication has the potential to solve a plethora of

You have 1 new friend request.

Facebook provides an easy way to ask teachers about assignments. work, and if they want to, they can interact with each other over said network to get information for assignments and projects.

The question is where to draw the line.

Primarily, Facebook has been a tool for friends to connect to each other and share photos, news from their lives and little tidbits of wisdom. And while there is nothing wrong with teachers being on Facebook, “friending” current students is going a little too far.

If it’s not appropriate for students and teachers to share personal details in real life, then it is probably not appropriate to share these things online. When you become friends on Facebook you are sharing all the things that you post, all the information about yourself that you put up and all the pictures

that you take – some of which does not need to be shared with a teacher.

Facebook is too informal for teachers to “friend” students.

While I realize that Facebook has some great opportunities for putting up messages about assignments and projects, there are a lot of other sites out there that do the same thing.

That does not mean that all contact should be cut off on Facebook. It would be fine if a student needed to ask a quick question about a project or something, and Facebook was the only medium available to easily ask the question. Small questions and exchanges of information are fine, but the limit needs to be established somewhere, and “friending” is a good

What do you think?

“I don’t think teachers should ‘friend’ us on Facebook. It would only be okay if they were no longer your teacher.”

-Amber Bouressa, sophomore

“With Facebook’s ability to limit what people can see, it is OK if responsible teachers are doing it.”

-Creighton Hulse, Spanish teacher

problems, and it is unreasonable to ask teachers and students to pretend that it doesn’t exist.

I do understand lines need to be drawn in the communication of students and teachers over the Internet, but to say that teachers and students should never be friends on Facebook is overkill.

I don’t think people should be sharing overly personal information on Facebook at all, let alone with people they interact with on a professional level, but saying ‘I haven’t seen you in a few days, and you have a big deadline coming up ‘ can save a lot of hassle in the long run.

Personally, I have used Facebook to communicate with teachers on multiple occasions. For example, when school began to rapidly approach and I didn’t know what I needed to do to prepare for my more advanced classes, all that was needed was a simple ‘what

is our summer reading?’ post on the wall of my English teacher. He quickly replied, and the interacted ended. It was easy and appropriate.

I know we have all read Facebook horror stories, but in reality, these instances are few and far between, and should be treated as such. These rare stories can alarm parents, administrators and communities as a whole, but educators shouldn’t be afraid to use social networking sites.

Facebook has the possibility of becoming a great resource for students and teachers if we take off the blinders and allow appropriate interaction to take place.

Mary Whitfill Features Editor

Sometimes we post things that we regret later.

place to do it.

Some might argue that inappropriate things can happen anyway. But while it is impossible to keep it from happening, you can a least take precautions against it.

Facebook is a great site for everyone to use, but like everything in life, a few guidelines need to be established so that things can go smoothly. Even though Facebook is different from real life, the consequences have a tendency to spill over, and that has to be avoided as much as possible.

Kelly Stewart Opinions Editor

It is not appropriate for students and teachers to share personal details online.

Facebook is too informal for teachers to “friend” students.

Delete “I think it’s a good way for students to develop a greater relationship with the teachers and other students.”

-Joe Han, junior

. . opinions

page 6

october 2011

Editorial

CHS homecoming traditions becoming grotesque Texas: undeniably home to the bigger and the better. In fact, its High schools embody the lone star state’s timeless stereotype every fall because fall is homecoming season, which in this state, is prepared for and anxiously awaited as if it were a traditional holiday.

If Coppell High School took the carefully crafted mums and garters made by the students for a grade, homecoming would be quite beneficial to students’ report cards. However, teenage girls lose hours of sleep to make their garter on a social account rather than an extracurricular one. In Texas, kids uphold a tra-

dition that wouldn’t make sense to Midwesterners who would find the whole idea rather obnoxious.

But still, we cannot help but join in the festivities. Simply complaining about the southern tradition would be too cynical for our taste - we happen to like homecoming. While handing a $100 bill to a cashier at ‘the mum shop’ nearly kills our consciences, the mission to create a beautiful garter with a lifespan of seven hours perseveres.

Admit it - hearing about how awesome your mum or garter is never fails to flatter. After all, you devoted bundles of cash,

burned your fingers on hot glue and tediously picked at dozens of unwanted staples to construct that gaudy masterpiece, it had better be fantastic. And, it better get just as much praise as the next girl’s who didn’t break one single nail when she simply ordered it, right?

Indeed, it’s the ladies in general who seem to value mums and garters more. While they interminably worry about their date’s garter and pray it hasn’t fallen apart yet, they is also strut down the hallway, analyzing every mum in sight and comparing it to the one they have on. The thought of being a senior with Graphic by Lauren Ussery

a rather humble mum standing next to a freshman with a talking teddy bear on hers is a dreaded possibility. It would be interesting to see a raise of hands of girls CHS who have ever felt personally victimized by a mum fit for the gods.

CHS has high standards and there are more than a handful of students who want to be the best.

The competition is silent but violent; two girls may chat about how their date’s garter is coming along as if it were small talk, yet when they get home they use the gathered information to improve theirs even more. Sly comments such as “oh, you haven’t started

yet? Well, good luck with that!” are also a popular weapon.

Homecoming week is an important one. It is as stressful and chaotic as it is fun and memorable. In reality, mums and garters are more of a status symbol than an innocent craft.

But by the end of the week any minor drama is diminutive to the scheme of things. Just remember ladies, there might be a year when you get a mum with peeling stickers, while your BFF has flickering lights on hers. Either way, I can sincerely promise that it well be a memory that makes a Texan fall much more important than a season.

Comments

from the web Freedom of choice can be costly The following is the transcript of a text conversation: Friend: I hate Boehner. Even Republicans are fed up with their own party. What’s a good way to NOT get a Republican elected next year? Hah, forcing us to default without the help of a single Democrat, that’s how!

Me: He’s probably a witch. *End* This is just an excerpt from a string of messages I have received and promptly countered with failed attempts at humor. Not to say that I didn’t laugh at the effectiveness of my comment; the conversation quickly veered onto the subject of Harry Potter. Basically, by obfuscating and redirecting, I not-so-subtly hint at the fact that I, Michelle Pitcher, know nothing about politics.

For once, I admit my flaw without citing it as a generational problem. I listen as my friends articulate their (surprisingly strong) political views, but I never have anything of substance to add to the conversation. Family members ask me for my opinion on the goings-on of the government, and all I can say is, “you’ve got a good two years before you have to worry about my opinion.”

But, honestly, I’m worried now.

I don’t underestimate the importance of voting, nor is this a PSA about how kids these days are ignorant and unappreciative. I just can’t seem to really “get” politics.

The root of my problem lies in the way I was raised, or rather, the way I respond to my parents’ methods. Neither of my parents have ever tried to shove their views down my throat, politically, religiously – you name it; they’ve let me decide it. However beneficial this has been to my becoming an individual and all that, I have never had the influence of a strongly opinionated family.

I used to think that it was exactly this parenting tactic that put me at a disadvantage compared to my politically savvy peers. But now I realize (forgive the overwhelming cheese) the problem lies within me.

Rather than inheriting a strong political identity from my parents, I “inherited”, in a sense, freedom of choice. I could have taken this invaluable freedom and explored my possibilities; despite my age, I have had enough valuable experiences in my life to at least come up with some semblance of a political stance.

However, I let the opportunity slip.

2011-2012 Staff Editor-in-Chief

Webmaster

Features Editor

Buisness Manager

Michelle Pitcher Mary Whitfill

News Editor

Julianne Cauley

Opinions Editor Kelly Stewart

Entertainment Editor Madison Ford

Sports Editor

Sammy Robben

Design Editor Lauren Ussery

Photos/Graphics Editor Brian Hwu

Wren Culp

Addy Lopez

Staff Writers Kara Adkins Kimberly Del Angel Coleman Armes Jordan Bickham Christina Burke Jay Carroll Caroline Carter Ben Cowlishaw Thomas Hair John Loop Lance McCaskey Tanner McCord

I couldn’t even tell you if my parents are Democrats or Republicans, pro-life or pro-choice, hippies or patriots till the end.

I can hardly answer those questions about myself.

My parents are giving me the opportunity to build my own foundation, lest I teeter precariously atop someone else’s. Without this foundation, however, it does not matter how many times I Google “2012 election for dummies” or which candidates I follow on Twitter; it means nothing to me until I figure out where I stand.

My parents absolutely did right by me, letting me formulate my own unique perspective for the world. I’m just sorry I took advantage of this freedom up until now. Starting now, I will do my absolute best to seek out this political information and see what aligns with my own views.

I’m glad my parents never tried to make me think a certain way – I would have never forgiven them for it.

Ten Years Later, Coppell High School “Fantastic story! I had no idea CHS had a bomb threat on that day. I can only imagine the buzz in the hallways that day when all of the students began hearing rumors about a terrorist attack....”

-Phillip

Rangers’ fans wave goodbye to attempted ban “Give up the wave? That is unAmerican!”

-Sallie Loop

Cowboys topple Jesuits in close game, 35-28 “Jack Brezette suffered a compound break to his leg in that final play.

Almost all the Jesuit fans stayed for 45 minutes after the game while his teammate knelt around him until he was put into the ambulance.”

-Shannon

Michelle Pitcher Editor-in-Chief

Sarah Police Chase Porter Chris Reagan Erica Rohde Tolu Salako Kristen Shepard Seth Slover Corrina Taylor Jordan Thompson Annie Wen Dyer Whitt

Photographers and Graphic Designers Rachel Bush Jack Ficklen Ivy Hess Rowan Khazendar Haley Madigan Trevor Stiff Jodie Woodward

Advisor

Chase Wofford

The Sidekick is the official student newspaper for Coppell High School. Its purpose is to inform, entertain and provide an educational resource for its readers. This newspaper is a public forum for student expression and thus student editors make all content decisions.

The Sidekick is a member of ILPC, NSPA and JEA. The Sidekick was the NSPA Pacemaker Finalist in 2002, The Dallas Morning News best newspaper honorable metion in 2006, Best Newspaper and Best Website in 2011 and received the Award of Distinguished Merit in 2003 and 2008 and is Broze Star recipent for 2009 from ILPC. The editorials and columns presented in this

paper reflect the view of their writers.

Advertisements are sold as full, 1/2 page, 1/4 page and 1.8 page sizes in black and white or color.

For more information you may reach the adviser in his classroom (D115) or by phone at (214) 496-6239.

To read more stories by The Sidkick staff members, and also to find videos and photos, you can visit coppellstudentmedia.com.

The Sidekick welcomes all letters to the editor, but letters must be signed before consideration for publication. Send letters to cwofford@coppellisd. com. or bring them by D115.

october 2011

. . opinions

Learning how to love It is often said that in order to achieve success, all one needs is faith. After all, with great faith comes great strength. Strength is the key to a lasting love, regardless of age.

A major part of growing up is figuring out who we are and what we want in life. Teens are considered naïve and unaware of what the world has to offer because “wisdom comes with age,” leaving us at a disadvantage due to the lack of years in our back pocket.

When teens claim to be in love, it is almost instinctive for adults to shun the possibility in

daddy’s little girl is in love with her best friend?

Just as she needs encouragement when working hard in school, she needs guidance to keeping her relationship steady and grounded. Love shouldn’t be underestimated just because it was found early in life, it should be encouraged in the right ways.

Secret to life #2: If you plan on being in love one day, don’t plan on walking into it when you’re supposed to fall. In other words, you can’t decide how old you will be when you find that special someone. Life is notorious for its unexpected change in direc-

page 7

Graphic by Brian Hwu

A new kind of senioritis hits

This year CHS has brought several changes, notably new administrators, adjustments to dress code, and the usual wave of incoming freshman. I am beginning to not recognize the place that has been my home away from home for the last four years.

The flowers outside the library seem less colorful, the freshmen seem more clueless and the workload seems less and less (and less) important to me than in previous years.

But as I sit down and think about it, I realize that maybe this feeling doesn’t come from the new vending machines or the old carpet; maybe this feeling is something that has developed within me. Everyone constantly complains about ‘senioritis,’ but I have found myself afflicted with something slightly different than the usual need to just get away.

Rather than developing an overwhelming feeling of claustrophobia and an impatient desire to be done with the high school curriculum, the opposite idea has

struck me – the world is at my fingertips. This is the time when I get to explore my interests, discover new ones and finally learn what I want to learn.

I’m that person who could go to school forever and be perfectly happy. I want to go to law school, but I don’t actually want to be a lawyer. I think medical school would be endlessly fascinating, but the thought of practicing medicine makes me sick to my stomach. I am happy to spend the rest of my life learning, but I want to be able to call the shots on what I learn.

While the CHS course guide lacks a class named ‘Why Rick Perry is a Complete Idiot,’ I have begun to realize that what my school has to offer doesn’t have to be the line in the sand on what I actually learn. We live in an instantaneous era, and for that reason, I have been able to pull myself out of the usual senior year rut.

Like most (all) high school students, I find 11 p.m. rolling around without a thought given to my

homework, but for reasons that are foreign to some of my classmates.

Rather than spending hours taking photos of myself on a webcam or posting tons of notes on Facebook about how bored I am, I have started to learn about things I actually want to know about. I have read over half of the Federalist Papers, I’ve trolled through the first seven chapters of Constitutional Law for a Changing America and, through all of it, I find myself actually thrilled to be learning.

So as I sit in C231 and B112 memorizing patterns, rhetorical devices and irrelevant formulas, I find myself reaching further and further out and getting further and further away from home.

This is my time to do with what I please and I plan to change the world someday – but maybe not with what I learned in high school.

Mary Whitfill Features Editor

Couples are easy to spot in the hallways of CHS, marked by their affection for one another.

Photo by Jodie Woodward

order to protect their child from something they likely don’t understand.

With that being said, the chances of marrying your high school sweetheart is getting slimmer as the years go by. The idea of divorce used to make housewives cover their mouth and gasp, but now it’s a trend that isn’t surprising at all. These days, the word ‘relationship’ makes the phrase “easy come, easy go” come to mind.

Marriage statistics haunt teenagers who are living up to the high expectations regarding their future. According to the rule, teens are just too young to understand love. But if every young couple accepted that mindset, there would never be an exception.

Somebody has to step up to the plate.

Secret to life #1: Love will be challenging whether you are 16 or 35. In fact, life in general is always going to be hard, but if two people want something badly enough, they can make it happen. Any teacher who tapes a “Reach for the stars” poster on their classroom wall should naturally agree, right?

Parents try to balance encouraging children and sheltering them. After all, they want nothing more than to see their kids happy and satisfied with life, so they do their best to pave the road that will lead to the child’s dream. If a mommy’s pride and joy wants nothing more than to be an artist, then the loving mother is going to feed that ambition. Well, what if

tion, and it is up to you to keep up.

Love is a great example of how sudden life’s surprises can be.

Chances are, you will not be perfect when you enter a serious relationship, ever. Love is based on trust, which doesn’t come with age by default; it comes when someone learns its value. It is up to the person to decide when that may be.

Secret to life #3: A sudden taste of love is not only exciting but also enlightening. In other words, you cannot learn how to do it; it teaches you. It can be the reason people grow up to be who they want to be.

So, the philosophy behind the text is obviously not how we learn to love, but actually the idea that we don’t really learn how to do it at all. High school romance has the possibility to end just as any romance, but the only way it could be a guaranteed failure is if there is no confidence in it. If someone has faith in something, then failure is automatically rivaled with the chance of succeeding.

When love gets hard, it is the faithful people that are strong enough to pull through instead of assuming there is no hope.

Thankfully, you are never too young to have faith in yourself.

Jordan Thompson Staff Writer

Graphic by Arden Radford

Kennedy reflects on teaching

The smell of new school supplies, the confidence coming with new clothes and the cool fall weather helping us forget the long, hot summer. There is excitement about the new school year.

But with all the good come lots of anxieties as well: new classes, new groups to grow accustomed to seeing every day and almost 10 months of sleepless nights, early morning tutorials and lots and lots of work ahead.

You might think the reference is to students but it could just as well be about teachers. Yes, teachers are human too, and just like students, they face healthy excitement and stress about the launch of another school year. Excitement comes from the new curriculum developed over the summer to prepare students for both state expectations and for their futures.

As for most people, anxiety comes from the unknown. Teachers ask: Which students will I have in class? How will I get to know them so they feel safe to take a risk when they don’t know the answers?

How can I help them understand what we do in class today really matters for their dream job?

Why would teachers stress

about reaching students? That’s a great question. So students, listen up. There is much more you do not know.

In education, the 3 R’s used to mean Reading, wRiting and aRithmetic. That is the foundation of a basic skills education that was the focus in your early years of school.

But in the quest to educate students (read: you) for college and career, now it’s all about Rigor, Relevance and Relationships.

How can students learn if they are not academically challenged and engaged? How can they set and reach academic goals if they do not see the relevance of learning to their lives and to their future careers? How can students meet high academic standards if they do not believe in their abilities?

Is there a healthy and positive relationship between teacher and student fostering learning in an environment of trust? All students need academic rigor, and relevant curriculum is based on positive relationships between teachers and students.

If we look at the 3 R’s closer, we see all three require work on the part of both students and teachers. For rigor to be ef-

fective teachers must present challenging lessons and students must participate in the learning process.

Stay awake in class, complete assignments, do the homework, learn the material.

In order to provide relevance in curriculum, teachers bring “real world” to the lessons. Students should be active learners in order to make connections between the classroom and the outside world they will soon be a part of in college.

And, when you think the teacher doesn’t like you, think twice. Teachers know the importance of a positive relationship.

And, when that trust is built, the rigor and relevance will fall in place because you will care about your relationship with your teacher, your learning and your future.

So, you ask?

Are teachers stressed? You bet.

We hold your future in our hands and that’s a big responsibility.

Irma Kennedy KCBY Adviser

page 8

..

opinions

october 2011

Cowboy hats give new look to senior traditions

With the football season goes perfectly with the Cowboy back, the Cowboys show off our theme of Coppell, making it a Coppell spirit. The senior girls great choice for senior guys, so dazzle us with their elaborate they don’t have to continue donand festive overalls that not only ning their “jorts” or any other show their spirit and support of form of overalls. With the cowthe team, but also gives the senior boy hats the senior guys can wear girls a chance to show off their them through the halls to show their school spirit and those who personality. are more artisW i t h The idea of a cowboy hat tic can decorate these colorful goes perfectly with the them in any way and creative overalls, it is Cowboy theme of Coppell, they want.

To get the easy to idenmaking it a great choice for idea going, Muentify that the senior guys. ster has already girls with the started to make a overalls are this year’s seniors. However, the cowboy hat of his own designed senior boys are not as easy to spot. to fit his personality. Consisting of Many people remember two mini pistols tied to the sides the infamous “jorts” that a hand- of the hat and the Coppell logo ful of senior guys modeled last Muenster’s hat will be a reference year. The problem with the “jorts” to other guys who might want to however was that they were ex- wear a cowboy hat as well.

Along with decorating the tremely short, showing off more of the guys’ legs than the rest of hat Muenster has also made it the student body wanted to see. a goal to really get this idea apThe senior boys do not have proved and well known.

After talking to Principal a tradition of their own, which is absurd considering they are just Mike Jasso, who really likes the as important to the school as any- idea, he decided that he wanted one else. Junior Hollis Muenster to get the Red Jackets involved. realizes this problem and is taking Muenster is talking to the Silver Spurs who already have so much matters into his own hands.

Wanting to give the senior school spirit they are sure to be a guys a fun and creative outlet just big supporter of Muenster’s idea.

With so many people allike the senior girls participate in, Muenster thought of the idea ready getting involved in the idea, of having senior guys decorating Muenster has high hopes that this idea will catch on for future cowboy hats.

The idea of a cowboy hat generations at Coppell. Person-

Photo by Brian Hwu

Junior Hollis Muenster sports his idea for a new senior tradition.

ally this idea seems like one that will stick, and more people will be able to partake in senior traditions.

The main point for all of this work is to show off our school spirit. I know that I will be making overalls next year, and I am glad that my fellow male classmates will also be able to partake in the celebration with some cowboy hats.

Now the only thing to do is wait and spread the idea of cowboy hats. This is an awesome opportunity for you to show your school spirit, and I hope they take up this offer to be the first senior males to start this tradition and leave their mark on Coppell.

“I think it would be great to leave my mark on the school by giving male seniors something to do for generations to come,”

Muenster said.

Corrina Taylor Staff Writer

CISD budget to focus on athletics, Salako says positive about the situation that Coppell is in before blaming the board and automatically despising the athletics department with their new additions.

Graphic by Brian Hwu

I remember the first day of dents’ shouldn’t be angry with the school when I saw the huge new board for neglecting other stuscoreboard at Buddy Echols Field. dent essentials and for focusing It was noticeably better than the on the athletics department. previous board, and it was obviThe funds CHS gets from ous how expensive it was based football brings in revenue for on its high tech quality.

CISD. The athletic funds come As I walked around the from bond dollars, and the CISD school to start off my second board bids on certain purchasyear of high school, I noticed that es such as the new scoreboard some things hadn’t changed. The or bleachers. Bond dollars are bug problem was still evident and used for specific purposes, and so were the broken locks in bath- the public is aware of what they room stalls. Initially, I began to willing to pay for when they cast have mixed feelings on the idea their vote. of building new We are additions to the ...Students shouldn’t be angry all aware of athletics departeconomwith the board for neglect- the ment while these ic crisis, and smaller aspects ing other student essentials CISD has were still left un- and focusing on the athletics tried to make touched. the best decidepartment.

Ho w e v e r, sion for our after taking a closer look, I real- situation. However, textbooks are ized other factors could have been a vital essential for students to be involved in the decision to replace successful in class. Unfortunately, the scoreboard.

CISD does not have the power to The city of Coppell district provide these because textbooks pays for school items, but taxpay- are funded by the state. er money goes to the district and The TEA has revamped how also through bond election and textbooks are being handled and out of that money a large portion they have been given allotments. is spent on Coppell High School. CISD only has a certain amount Though it is evident that signifi- of dollars to spend on textbooks cant amount of money is spent and the district has to coordinate on the athletics department, stu- and get all the major players on

the board involved.

According to the Director of Purchasing Denise Sullivan, there is nothing the district can do with the situation of textbooks, and unfortunately many Texas schools have been running into the same problems. In addition,

the fixes such as the bug problem and locks on the stalls are changes that could have been made years ago and unfortunately no one has requested a bond for these. It’s understandable how voters can overlook these small details.

Students have to be more

Tolu Salako Staff Writer

october 2011

features

page 9 Although there is an Andy Brown West and an Andy Brown Central , this is the largest and most popular par k. This park has a pavilion for parties, soft ball fields, ponds for fishing, basketb all courts, sand volleyball courts, a walking path and even a course for Frisbee golf. Thi s is also where large community events like Okt oberfest and the Fourth of July celebrations are held . These events feature live music, food and boo ths.

“If you’re a nature guy like me, you may want to walk around Andy Brown East during the sunset to hear the birds chirping and sounds of cute children,” junior Luke Jenner said.

The n opened la ight before Wha ta s camping t year, students c burger ould be s out, wait een in opening.

There wa g for the grand s much h opened, an y great pla d it has not gone pe before it ce to go, away. It is es night foo tball gam pecially after Frid a es and oth events. P ay lu have the s, it does not hur er sporting best bu t that th “They ha rgers in Coppell. ey ve great b drink siz urge es atmosph are huge. It alwa rs and the ere too,” sophomo ys has a great strong sa re Trent id.

Arm-

Anamia’s is a fancier TexMex restaurant than all the other restaurants listed, and it may be the most popular restaurant in Coppell.

It serves great food and is a good place to go for a Sunday lunch with the family, to watch a game on one of their many TVs or just to go out to eat. Anamia’s always busy and the food will not let you down.

Not only is St arnucks a lover’s dream , but is also a coffee fantastic place to do hom groups with fr ework or have study ie place to just si nds. It is a good t down, relax and talk with friends.

Th are definitely e best times to go ea afternoon. Ove rly morning or late rall this might the best place to relax in C be op outside of the comforts of yo pell home. ur own

is c Center ll Aquati summer, e p p o C The e in the ore activ pular workout m y ll a u s o u e other p re than but unlik it has much mo a game s s, location e Rec. center ha ball ey Th ll . o v m y d g a all an tb e k outdoor s a d b n oor a room, d in n a the prond courts, a also currently in e inside th pool. It is ding on to both d a . s f o ie s it s il e c c outside fa and the

If you are ever bored on a Saturday night, or just any night in general, Sonic is a great place to go. There will almost always be someone that is looking for someone to hang out with or talk to, and it is the self proclaimed “Ultimate Drink Stop.” So why not give at a try?

“We all know how active Coppell can get, so if you’re ever looking for a fun social event, Sonic at Denton Tap will prevail,” senior Teddy Croft said.

features

page 10

october 2011

Coppell junior, senior soar to the rank of Eagle Scout Photo by Jodie Woodward

They pledged their duty to God, their country and to helping those in need. They went on countless scouting trips and earned numerous merit badges. And finally, CHS junior Spencer Coberly and senior Grant Akerly received the honor of Eagle Scout.

According to the Boy Scouts of America, only about five percent of boys who enter Boy Scouts will go on to earn the Eagle Scout, the highest award a scout can receive. However, despite the slim odds, these two CHS students have proven that dedication can lead straight to achieving your goals.

Michelle Pitcher Editor-in-Chief

Coberly joined Cub Scouts when he was in first grade, and even then, he knew what he was working toward.

“When Spencer joined Cub Scouts at Mockingbird Elementary in 2001, he told us that he wanted to be an Eagle Scout,” Spencer’s mother, Janice Coberly, said.

In order to earn the Eagle Scout award, the boys must complete a service project that will have lasting effects on the community. Spencer’s Eagle Scout project was to construct “cubbies” for the Coppell Middle School East band hall to hold the students’ instruments. However determined he was to achieve his goal, getting there was no easy task.

“It took me five or six months to plan it all out and get everything approved,” Spencer said. “The actual construction was done in about two or three weeks. We met four or five times, we raised the money, and we did almost all the construction in one day.”

In order to set this project in motion, Spencer first had to go through the lengthy approval process. Not only did he have to meet with Jason Brents and Rusty Gray,

CMS East’s band directors, but he had to submit his idea to his scoutmaster, the troop committee and the Western Star District of Boy Scouts. After the initial approval of his project, Spencer was faced with the task of raising money under the strict guidelines of Boy Scouts of America.

“Once the project was approved, Spencer met with the manager of the Ace Hardware in Coppell and secured a date for a fundraiser,” Janice said. “He and a number of Scouts grilled hot dogs at Ace [Hardware], and gave them to Ace customers – for donations only as they were not allowed to ‘sell’ them. He raised over $500 in two hours.”

While many things went according to plan, much of what Spencer did was try to work around problems that arose.

“It was not an easy journey for Spencer,” Janice said. “There were times where he could have quit – many of his peers did – or he could have decided to continue in the troop and not pursue Eagle; however, he was determined to be an Eagle Scout. We’re very proud of him for sticking with it and accomplishing this.”

While Coberly was addressing a need “The hardest part of the project was that was close to home, Akerly was focusing trying to fit 200 loaves of bread into the his efforts on a different sort of cause. back of my brother’s car, and then trying “I led a group of students and scouts to drive that same car home while having in making 2,040 sandwiches for The Soup- bread blocking my vision,” Akerly said.

Mobile, which is an organization in Dallas Akerly’s determination to achieve this that feeds the homeless,” Akerly said. award was fueled largely by the influence of This was not the first time he had his father and grandfather, both of who set given his time and efforts to benefit this an example of service and character. Both organization - his church men attended Akerly’s Eagle Scout ceremogroup regularly does ny, expressing their pride in projects for SoupMobile I lead a group of his accomplishments. but he saw an entirely dif“My father was an Eastudents and scouts in gle scout, and my grandpa ferent side of the process making 2,040 as the event planner.

Was in the Air Force,” Aker“About 90% of the sandwiches for The ly said. “I joined Cub Scouts project was planning, thinking, ‘Why not?’”

Soup Mobile. while 10% was execution Both boys had to -Grant Akerly, senior complete all project reand actual service work,” Akerly said. “Now that quirements then go through everything is planned, I a second approval process, could do this same project this time in front of a Board again in no time at all.” of Review. If this panel of judges deems Despite the seemingly interminable the completed project worthy of the Eagle process of paperwork and approval, Akerly Scout honor, they send it off to the National does not think this was the most difficult Office of the Boy Scouts of America for the aspect of becoming an Eagle Scout. final approval.

Bagley crowned Outstanding Assistant Principal Ben Cowlishaw Staff Writer

Assistant principal Sean Bagley: the booming voice dominating the announcements, leader of pep rally chants, Silver Spur organizer and now Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year.

Bagley, along with Coppell Middle School West assistant principal Jeff Minn, were chosen to represent Region 10 in the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) as Outstanding Assistant Principals of the Year.

Every year assistant principals are nominated by teachers and coworkers, and the submissions go to the TASSP Principal Image Committee who select finalists based on performance and leadership in education. One middle school assistant principal and one high school assistant principal are selected from each region, with both coming from CISD this year.

Region 10 is made up of 80 public school districts, with more than 650,000 students and 53,000 educators.

“I was nominated by [Assistant Superintendent and former CHS Principal] Brad Hunt, who, in addition to working with him,

has been a great friend for a long time,” Bagley said.

For Hunt, Bagley was a clear choice. “When I think of outstanding administrators, Mr. Bagley is at the top of my list,” Hunt said.

According to Hunt, Bagley’s character highlights the qualities that make him an effective educative administrator.

“His love for kids, his outgoing personality and his great attitude make him the type of administrator you want around your children,” Hunt said. “It was a pleasure to be able to work alongside him for five years and an honor to call him a friend. Mr. Bagley is most deserving of this prestigious award.”

The news came as an exciting surprise to Bagley.

“I found out through email, and I’ve been receiving a lot of feedback from the administration and teachers that has been very congratulatory,” Bagley said.

Bagley believes his experience in education, as well as being part of CISD, played a role in the award.

“I believe I was awarded because of the reputation of CISD,” Bagley said. “We have a really exemplary district. Also, this is my 20th year in education, and my

seventh as an AP, so I’ve had the opportunity to be seen more.”

Minn, like Bagley, believes he was awarded based on the performance of his school and CISD. “I’m surrounded by the most amazing and talented teachers, support staff and administrators in the state of Texas,” Minn said. “Their influence on me is immeasurable and was very influential in molding me as an educational leader.”

His personal philosophy of putting others before himself also contributed to his award, according to Minn.

“I believe in being a servant leader,” Minn said. “I feel it is important to serve others first and look at the needs of others, whether it’s students, parents, teachers, or the campus as a whole.”

Minn and Bagley serve their schools both as administrative leaders as well as personal resources for students.

Bagley is known for the way he shows an extraordinary amount of school spirit, evident at pep rallies and showcased by the Silver Spurs, which he oversees. Bagley’s recognition came as no surprise to students, as his charisma and attitude make him stand out as an AP. “I’m not surprised Mr.

Bagley won the award. He’s extremely spirited and loves what he does,” senior Silver Spur Chase Porter said. “He really connects well with the Silver Spurs, and the entire student body in general.”

He is also well-liked among students for his general performance as an assistant principal.

“He’s also a very helpful and supportive AP in general. He has

Photo by Jodie Woodward

been my AP for four years, and has always been a huge help in anything I’ve needed,” Porter said.

Bagley’s influence on students as both a valuable resource and friendly face explains why he won the award.

“I have to thank everyone at the high school, and especially Mr. Hunt. This wouldn’t have happened without him,” Bagley said.

Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year, Sean Bagley, pumps up CHS students at the first outdoor pep rally of the year.

features Coppell questions justification of bond application

october 2011 Madison Ford

Entertainment Editor

Friday night lights are about to get a little more spectacular at Coppell High School football games. But at what price?

The new scoreboard is one of the many projects carried out with bond money the district received from local taxpayers. While this scoreboard, as well as many other district mandated changes, were intended to improve the facilities of various Coppell schools, some are questioning whether this money was put to the best use.

In 2009, CISD held a bond election that approved $50 million in bond money.

This bond money was then allocated to different projects within the district. “[The bond is] paying for renovations throughout the district,” CISD Assistant Superintendent for Business and Support Services Sid Grant said. “Like new air conditioning systems, carpets, roofs, things that need to be done to our buildings just because they are getting older.”

The 2009 bond has also helped pay for technology, such as computers and the wireles networks within the district.

“Now you can go just about anywhere in the district and have wireless connectivity,” Grant said.

Among the more financially taxing use of bond money was the new articial surface of Coppell Middle School West’s Leslie Field, and the new scoreboard for CHS’ Buddy Echols Field. Costing an even $600,000, the new scoreboard is well equipped to show instant replay in HD clarity and create a new friday night football experience for Coppell residents. It was also the most expensive of all the bond projects.

Some CHS students were shocked at the pricetag of the new scoreboard.

“It is totally not necessary to have a new scoreboard when we had one in the first place that worked perfectly fine,” senior Sam Fillingim said.

According to Grant however, the previous scoreboard, despite its appearance, was approaching a state of disrepair.

“It was just about to fall apart; it wasn’t working. We were afraid every time we turned it on, ‘Is it going to

work, is it going to come on, is the sound going to work, were the lights going to come on?”

Grant said. “It was old and time to be replaced. We were just patching it together everytime we used it, in hopes that it would make it through a game.”

While the state of the scoreboard did call for a replacement, the high price spent on another sports related facility was puzzling to some.

“I think the scoreboard money should be put to better use, like hiring more teachers rather than creating a good football stadium, ”senior Stephen Arifin said.

The process of deciding how the bond money was spent was very methodical, and Grant stressed the involvement of the community when deciding on bond projects.

“We started in 2008,” Grant said. “We put together a commitee of about 30 diffferent community members, parents and tax payers from around the school district, and they actually went around to every school, talked to the principals, talked to some of the teachers, and then came up with a list.

So Coppell ISD community members came up with a list of things they would like to see done in the schools.”

Grant and his committee assisted in the decision process by informing the community of the schools that were in need of certain necessities, such as new air conditioning systems. In this way, the district attempted to ensure that the bond money was used in the most beneficial way.

The commitee also considered how they could benefit financially from the bond projects. The installment of the scoreboard, for example, was an attempt to bring in additional revenue.

“The money we are spending we are going to recoup by selling advertising,” Grant said.

“We are trying to get about $150,00 per year, thats what Photo by Brian Hwu. we’re targeting. This first year, at least $100,00, but somewhere between $100,00 and $150,000 per year.”

The scoreboard will be controlled from a room inside the press box. KCBY students will be responsible for filming the game, broadcasting instant replays, and controlling the scoreboard. In this way, the bond provided an opportunity for KCBY students to further their understanding of broadcast journalism.

Many are enthusiastic

The new scoreboard’s audio system can be managed by sound equipment located in the control room.

page 11

about the new scoreboard due “That was a challenging proj- set aside for a certain departto its allure and potential to ect, to completely rennovate ment over another, this may bring an elevated atmosphere an elementary school to a high be because those questioned to game nights. school in ten weeks. That was expressed interest in spend“I am so excited for the the most exciting.” ing the bonds this way, Grant new [scoreboard] because its With each bond the dis- explains. going to pump up the crowd trict receives, many hours The district can look foran bring entusiasm to the stu- are devoted to how the funds ward to more improvements dents,” senior Alexis Meyer should be divided. Since these in the future, as the the rest said. funds come from bonds that of the bond money is spent on The most publicized proj- citizizens vote for, they direct- projects throughout the disects of this most recent bond, ly involve tax payers. Due to trict. Meanwhile residents of many of which were completed this, tax payers provide input Coppell can sit back and enjoy this summer, seem to focus on into how they should be spent. the benefits of yet another sethe sports departments of Cop- If a large portion of funds are ries of bond projects. pell ISD. However, this bond, as well as previous bonds, have contributed many renovations to the district that are unrelated to sports. Among these are new bleachers and playground equipment at elementary schools, smart boards, and, from a bond voted on in 2006, New Tech High School.

“We took the old Photo by Brian Hwu. elementary school and during a summer rennovated it into a high The new scoreboard is programmed by a combination of sound and video sysschool,” Grant said. tems that are connected throughout the stadium.

Changes to dress code minor whether or not Nike shorts meet dress code, to athletic shorts of Sports Editor all kinds being off limits. The truth: any athletic shorts can be For most high schools, worn by any student, as long as the first week of school brings they meet the school’s fingertip worries of homework, tests and length requirement. where to sit at lunch, but the “I was surprised to hear students at Coppell High School that Nike shorts were such a big had different worries: dress issue; I understand now just seecode. ing how many girls wear Nike Rumors of a stricter dress shorts,” Jasso said. “The only iscode first started spreading sue I ever had with Nike shorts around the halls of CHS last was the length; it has to meet May when Mike Jasso was hired dress code just like everyto replace former Principal Brad thing else”.

Hunt. Jasso credits his reputaThough the topic of tion as a strict principal to the athletic shorts seems like spread of dress code rumors. a minor detail to most, for “Having been many CHS students the here before, concept of not wearing Nike I think my shorts was one they could reputation not come to terms with. is one of be“When I heard the ing a strict rumor that they were discigoing to get rid of Nike plinarshorts I was mad,” junior ian, and people Leah Yates said. “There worried I would are nights when you have be overly strict,” to stay up late and when Jasso said. you wake up you are too To elimitired to get ready, so it nate any is easier to just put on confusion Nike shorts and a Tor dispute shirt.” rumors Another misguided of dress rumor that spread said that c o d e students would no longer change, be able to wear flip-flops assistant prinand sandals because of iscipals visited sues with safety. Accordeach fourth peing to Jasso, flip-flops riod classroom to were never discussed as discuss the student part of the changes being handbook and dress made the dress code and code policies. are allowed.

One of the The only major most discussed change to the dress rumors regardcode is the new “necking dress code to-shoulder rule.” The was whether or rule states that all not the school shirts and tank tops would be worn by students banning athmust cover all skin Graphic letic shorts, from the neck to the

by Haley Madigan women’s Nike shorts shoulder, which is a signifito be more specific. The ru- cant difference from the old rule mors included everything from that only required tank tops to Sammy Robben

be three fingers in width.

“My understanding was that it was a needed change because there were so many issues with it last year, and it was something we needed to address,” Jasso said.

This change was enforced before school even started, and came as shock to many students when they were forced to change for their school pictures taken at schedule pick-up.

“When they told me I had to change at schedule pickup, I was mad because I was wearing a shirt that had previously been in dress code and to me wasn’t i n a p p r o p r i a t e ,” junior Lauren Louis said.

The adm i n ist r at i on understands that many students make tank tops as a form of school spi r it and are willing to make exceptions for special occasions including homecoming dress up week.

“For instance if the football team does well and we go far into the playoffs, there are any number of special occasions that we may alter or make exceptions for,” Jasso said. “I don’t want to kill school spirit, but we have to have certain standards.”

Any other rules regarding dress code can be found in the student handbook, where it explains in depth the official dress code.

in-depth

page 12

page 13

Through the eyes of a child

Remembering

9/ Ten 11

Many citizens came to Coppell’s memorial service bearing flags and other symbols of patriotism to remember the attacks that occurred on 9/11.

I

was 4 years old when [September 11, 2011] happened. I lived in West Orange, New Jersey at the time and my window faced towards the twin towers. When I would get home from school I would just stare at them at night because I loved the way they lit up the New York City skyline. I told my mom that I wanted to work there when I was older because of the lights.

When my school had gotten word that a plane had been highjacked, they sent us all home as soon as they could. When I got off the bus, my mom was there to walk me home. Our teachers didn’t tell us what was going on because they didn’t want to scare us but I knew something was wrong because my mom was rushing me home.

When I got home my mom went and turned on the TV in the living room so I went upstairs to put my backpack in my room. That was when I looked out my window to see the twin towers. They would greet me every day when I came home.

My mom rushed to see where I was. When she found out that I was OK she went into her room because my dad was calling her.

Years Later

By Julianne Cauley News Editor

Then the first plane came and devastated me. I was thinking to myself before the plane hit that it was flying way too low. My mom used to be a flight attendant so she used to tell me everything she knew about planes. Within five minutes I saw the plane going straight for the first tower.

When the plane hit I screamed and ran into my parents’ room with tears in my eyes. My mom asked what was wrong so I took her to my window where she put her hand over her mouth and a tear rolled down her face.

I will never forget that moment because I have never seen my mom cry. She told my dad to take me into their room where I stayed with my brother Josh while my mom, dad and brothers, Adam and Chase, watched everything continue to unravel.

When I went to bed that night I looked out of my window and saw the flames that used to be twinkling lights. Every since then I always remember 9/11 and the effect it had when I was so young and how it changed everyone’s life around me.

-Madison Pickett, freshman

During a period of the service reserved for prayer, firefighters bowed their heads in remembrance.

Police come forward to pray and remember fellow officers that died in 9/11.

The service was ended with all those in attendance reciting the pledge of allegiance.

S

eptember 11, 2001 was recorded in history as “the day that changed everything.” However, for Coppell citizens, the chaotic, confusing and frantic atmosphere was not only a result of events occurring in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C., but at Coppell High School as well.

Because the school day started roughly an hour before the first plane struck the North Tower, the day started normally without any sense of alarm. Parents had begun to venture to work as if it were a normal day; it was not until 8:46 a.m. that suspicions erupted.

“I dropped [my son] off at school, came in and got ready for the day; then I saw I had received an e-mail from another teacher saying that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center,” AP Calculus teacher Jan Bourg said.

At this time everything was quite vague, and no one had a clear or definite idea of what was going on.

“ N o t many people had cell phones,” Biology teacher Jennifer Martin said. “That was part of the issue with communication, so after the first plane crashed, everybody thought it was an However, these attacks would soon be noted as no accident.

Seventeen minutes later, a plane crashed into the South Tower at 9:03 a.m.

“We were simply trying to make sense of two planes crashing into buildings on the same day,” Bourg said. “Nothing like this had ever happened before – people did not say ‘Oh it is a terrorist attack’ no one said that.”

Ten years ago, the primary reason for the confusion about what was happening was a result of the lack of developed technology.

“Today if that happened [students] would know within seconds,” AP American History teacher Kevin Casey said. “The students 10 years ago weren’t aware. They

knew something had happened and [teachers] knew something had happened, but we did our best not to spend the whole day focusing on it.”

This effort was valiant, but as the day progressed, it was impossible to continue treating September 11, 2001 as a normal school day.

“A lunch had just been released when our school received a bomb threat,” said Principal Mike Jasso, who was an assistant principal at the time. “The day became even more hectic and stressful in the blink of an eye.”

At the time, the school did not have a structured system to use during fire drills, or in this case, bomb threats.

“Everybody just scrambled and exited; they took this bomb threat more seriously than others, simply because of what was going on the rest of the United States at that time,” Jasso said.

Students flooded the outside area of the school as they were led onto the football field, inside the turf room, lined down Town Center Drive and back towards Parkway.

“The school was evacuated while I was gone taking my son lunch for his birthday, and they would not let me back on the high school campus after the bomb threat,” Bourg said. “I waited at the Walgreens off Parkway with a ton of parents who were panicking; I stayed helping comfort parents there who could not reach their students.”

Because the school lacked a structured evacuation plan, parents were coming to pick up their kids, but they could not find them - staff did not know where they were in the big mess of things.

“The stress of the day continued to build and build as students were not completely informed, parents were not comfortable with the safety of their children and teachers and administration were not sure of how to best handle the situation,” Jasso said.

The day continued to be filled with terror as two more planes crashed into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. and another crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pa. At the time though, most people at Coppell High School remained uninformed.

“We were cut off due to having to sit outside; we had no idea of what was going on in the world,” Martin said. “They were keeping us isolated as we waited outside for the bomb threat to end,” After being outside for

around three hours, students and staff were allowed back inside the school, and the bomb threat was revealed to be not authentic.

Ten years later, the school had plans to commemorate “the day that changed everything”. Various activities inside and outside the school were put on to remember the day as well as those fallen.

“Monday September 12 was a red, white and blue day to honor America and those who fell during the attacks,” Jasso said. “The school day was quite solemn and reflective on that day while thinking about how the events of 10 years ago changed the world we now live in.

CHS and the community as a whole were able to use this day for a teachable moment and used this attack to reiterate the importance of patri-

“In Coppell, and the nation as a whole, these public cerotism emonies made the people more a l o n g aware of what is around us and with tolerit has made us much more aware ance.” that not everybody is our friend, Coppell High School Marchant said. “We must never groups participated in the City of Coppell 9/11 ceremony as well. let our guard down again. As The city of Coppell ceremony Congress, the most important was held on Monday September 12 thing we can do is work to prevent at Town Center Plaza, behind City events and crises like 9/11 from Hall. One special guest was U.S. ever happening again.”

Through public recognition Congressman, Kenny Marchant (R and emotional ceremonies, signif– TX).

Congressman Marchant dis- icant amounts of work have been cussed what he was to read to Con- done to prevent attacks like this gress about how America will move from ever disrupting the unity forward from the events of Septem- and safety of the country. America is more ready and united than ber 11.

“The most important thing ever before.

Other important keynote we did as a nation after September 11 was the response of the mili- speakers included Coppell Potary, police and fire departments,” lice Chief, Mac Tristan, Coppell Marchant said. “They all used to Fire Chief, Kevin Richardson and operate on different views and Deputy Chief of Police, Gary Nix. “I think that we are much wavelengths and they are all now cooperating with one another and more cautious society. It destroyed our sense of safety and peace that communicating with each other.”

To honor this, the Coppell we had,” Deputy Chief of Police, Fire and Police Color Guards along Gary Nix, said. “This event has with the Fire Dept were featured taught us as a society we need to along with bagpipe and Drum be more cautious. Ceremonies Corps who performed homage to like these unify a community and safety agencies and military men help all of us come together to strive towards a common goal.” and women.

Photos by Jack Ficklen Graphics by Lauren Ussery

features Jennings, Norwood share special bond with siblings page 14

october 2011

Over four million babies are born each year in the Unites States. Out of those children, one in every 691 will be diagnosed with Down Syndrome and one in every 150 will have some form of Autism.

For several students at CHS, intellectual disabilities are something they have lived with for the majority of their lives.

However, those who were personally diagnosed with the disorders are not the only ones who deal with the effects. Their siblings know firsthand the impact the disabilities can have on one’s life living with a Photo courtesy of Allie Norwood special needs child.

Coppell senior Special needs siblings in Coppell serve as the inspiration for Club Connected. Allie Austin Jennings used Norwood, senior, and sibling Caitlin Norwood are part of the program. his sister Mackenzie as an inspira- best high school experiences, we people get upset about random, tion to start a club at CHS called are trying to find ways to become small things I just think its silly to Club Connected. This club is de- more comfortable with this and to be upset over something small. If signed as an outlet for students get people to realize it’s not a big she can be happy when she has so who have disabled siblings. Its ob- deal and that they are the same as much less than I do then I can be jective is to allow students to speak all of us.” just as happy as her.” openly about living with their sibAnybody who has ever However, it is not always easy lings and is also a way to educate grown up with a sibling knows living with a special needs sibling; students about their siblings’ dis- the many adventures it entails. It it tests one’s patience and ability to abilities, as well as share their ex- comes with the challenges and care for another person uncondiperiences. rewards that help develop that re- tionally. Just like all sibling rela“My sister struggles with lationship and create an undeni- tionships, there will be fights and speaking up outside of our house, able bond. Senior Allie Norwood disagreements, but a unique set of

challenges arise when living with a disabled child.

“It’s difficult not being able to communicate with her fully,” Allie said. “Some special needs kids can talk and somewhat communicate, but she has high severity autism, so she cant communicate at all. She can do a little bit of sign language but it’s difficult sometimes not knowing what she wants.”

For Jennings, living with his sister has impacted his outlook on life and also shaped him into who he is today. It has driven him to help out with special needs children and to join organizations in order to help those with special needs.

“From her disability, I have gotten involved with Special Olympics,” Jennings said.

“I’m a unified swimmer which means I swim with the athletes in a relay race. I’ve started my club, gotten involved with organizations and stuff like that. Basically, she has taught me to be more sincere with everybody and she has made me a better person all around.”

Living with disabled siblings has given students unique sets of sensitivities. One thing Norwood is very adamant about is the word “retarded” being used as slang. Everybody has either heard this word or used it in everyday language as a way to call another stupid, and in Norwood’s eyes it is unnecessary and offensive.

“I cannot stand it,” Allie said. “In middle school, I would

tell people to stop saying that, but nobody is going to stop saying it. It bothers me a lot.”

Peer tutor teacher Carol Jackson works with special needs kids at Coppell and has seen sibling relationships as well as student relationship flourish with special needs students.

She has been in numerous situations where the word “retarded” has been used as slang, and knows how it can hurt parents and siblings.

“It is a really sad way for people to describe others, it’s just slang for stupid,” Jackson said. “Legislature passed a law this summer that they don’t even use the term ‘mentally retarded’ as a diagnosis word it’s now ‘intellectual disability’.

I’ve seen parents at community outings hear people say ‘That’s so retarded.’ They have kids that could be classified that way. It’s a very hurtful term when somebody you love and care about has that classification.”

In both Norwood and Jennings’ cases, they realize that their relationship with their sibling might be different from most sibling relationships, but they could not imagine it any other way. They both agree that their siblings have taught them unforgettable lessons and molded them into a better person.

“It’s been monumental having her as a sister,” Jennings said.

“It’s been amazing, she has taught me to accept everybody, and the biggest thing I would say is just how the little things make her so happy.”

bors together for a dual purpose, fighting crime and looking out for one another.”

The NNO aims to bring neighbors together, strengthen neighborhood spirit and generate participation in anti-crime programs. Coppell’s NNO has grown from just a few block parties in 1991 to 49 parties in 2010.

Since winning the “Rookie” award in 1991, the National Association of Town Watch has recognized Coppell with an ‘Outstanding Participation Award’ every year. Thirty-five block parties are already signed up to participate this year.

“We do an excellent job with National Night Out,” Coppell Police Officer Richard Harr said. “With a city of our size, about 40,000, we have about 50 block parties a year. When you break that down, it’s about one block party for ev-

have a better working relationship with community members.”

In addition to encouraging people to go out and meet their neighbors, CPD uses the block parties as a way to introduce neighborhood crime watch programs.

“It’s about getting to know people, starting a crime watch and getting involved,” Harr said. “We want to get back to a time where everyone knew everyone, and people could tell us when things are slightly off. When something happens in a neighborhood, we want to be able to talk to neighbors, and we want them to know what’s going on.”

Apart from the block parties, NNO is involved in many other community activities. The NNO Knight and “Mr. P.C.” (the robotic car) was presented at St.

Ann Carnival Sept. 9-11, the Annual Homecoming Spirit Parade on Sept. 19 and at the Homecoming Football game against Saginaw on Sept. 23.

In addition, the National Night Out Golf Tournament was held on Sept. 17 at Bridlewood Golf Club in Flower Mound. Participation in the tournament is $80 per person, which includes lunch and the chance to will door prizes. Sponsorships are available for individuals and corporations.

“It brings communities and neighborhoods together,” Harr said. “If nothing else, you meet your neighbors. In today’s day and age things like this are vital.

We have gotten lost in email and texting, and we need to get back to meeting and talking to people. In a social setting, people are more willing to connect.”

Kara Adkins Staff Writer

but at home she’s loud, talkative and has a great personality,” Jennings said. “She just has trouble sharing that with everybody else.

The club gives us a chance to just talk about that kind of stuff. We all want our siblings to have the

has had her own set of experiences growing up with her Autistic sister, Caitlin Norwood, a student in the CHS special education program.

“She has taught me that things could be worse,” Allie said.

“I realized that a lot lately. When

City gears up for National Night Out celebration Mary Whitfill Features Editor

As Coppell prepares for the 20th celebration of National Night Out (NNO) in October, the organization has begun to gear up for their participation in local events. From the St. Ann Carnival to the annual homecoming parade, NNO uses widelyattended events to spread the word about what they consider to be the best social event of the year.

“National Night Out is probably one of the most important events that the City annually hosts,” Coppell Community Information Officer Sharon Logan said. “Coppell residents really care about each other and they care about their community. This event encourages and fosters that hometown feel by bringing neigh-

ery 800 people. That’s incredible when you think about it.”

NNO Block Parties are described by the Coppell Police Department as the “cornerstone” of National Night Out. Each participating neighborhood can compete for the “2011 Block Party Winner” street sign, which will remain on display within the neighborhood. The Coppell Police Department, Fire Department, McGruff the crime dog, the NNO Knight, City Council members and Mayor Doug Stover will visit the block parties from 6 – 8 p.m.

“It is important for people to get to know each other, because you can develop better relationships in your community,” CHS School Resource Officer Ricky Jimenez said. “This helps to deter crime, help others in need and to

Photos courtesy of Richard Harr

National Night Out is considered one of the most important events hosted each year in Coppell. It strives to connect the community through family-friendly events.

october 2011

features

page 15

CHS academics shine above other local high schools Mary Whitfill

Features Editor

While new students tentatively walk the halls of unfamiliar schools and new policies are implemented into the interworking of administration, Pulitzer Prize winning public records website ProPublica released a school search database allowing community members to compare their school to others in the area.

According to ProPublica, Coppell High School soars above local high schools in some areas, and falls below the bar in others.

Coppell High School is currently home to around 2,680 students, more than any of the four closest high schools in surrounding areas. The ProPublica search engine allows users to compare things such as the percentage of Inexperienced Teachers, number of AP courses offered, and the percentages of students who take at least one AP course or who are enrolled in Advanced Math.

“I take advanced classes because it’s what is expected of me,” senior Jahnavi Udiakumar said. “My parents expect me

to study, colleges expect me to take difficult classes, and my teachers expect me to do well.

When compared to Lewisville High School, Creekview High School, Newman Smith High School and Ranchview High School, the percentage of students who take advanced math reach high above the rest at 18 percent.

“Advanced classes are important because they truly do give kids the rigor they will face in higher education,” CHS AP campus facilitator Kimberly Pearce said. “Students have the opportunities to ‘practice’ and learn valuable skills and concepts in the safe environment of the high school. Every student can benefit from an advanced course.”

This puts the school even with the district average, and eight percentage points above the state average.

“Our district and the teachers at CHS have created a culture that encourages students to take a rigorous course of study knowing that the rewards are better preparation for life beyond high school,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Marilyn

Denison said. “I think our students understand that the hard work they invest today will pay significant dividends for their future.”

This places Coppell well above other schools in the area, where only half of them meet the state average.

“Coppell students are driven and they are pushed by not only parents but themselves,” assistant principal Jeremy Varnell said. “They set a standard and the teachers here set a standard, and then they push themselves beyond even that.”

In addition to the number of students taking advanced math, 36 percent of students take at least one AP course.

Teachers attribute this large number of students to a drive among students and a general desire to be advanced.

“AP classes are simply more challenging,” AP GT English IV teacher Matthew Bowden said. “My experience is that each issue or topic is studied and dissected on a depth and breadth unlike that of onlevel or survey course. This naturally attracts students who are driven and looking to prepare

themselves for college course work.”

Another category in which CHS shows considerable advancement among local public schools is the percent of inexperienced teachers present. Only three percent of Coppell High School’s teachers have been teaching for less than three years, while as many as 10 percent of Lewisville High Schools teachers fall within the category of ‘inexperienced.’”

Teacher experience is an important factor in teacher quality, which, according to ProPublica, experts believe has a direct impact on student academic achievement.

“Experience has been invaluable as a teacher,” Bowden said. “The key is experience, both bad and good, and learning from both. You have to learn which battles are worth fighting and which to let go, and to always remember that you are there for kids. Have fun and build relationships.”

In addition, a Dallas Morning News report shows that out of 34 ‘low poverty’ Dallas area schools, Coppell High School ranks third in the number of students that come

out of the school ready for college. Texas defines college – ready graduates as those who scored high enough on the SAT or ACT college entrance exams, or on the 11th grade TAKS tests.

“I think I’m very prepared for college because of the amount of work I’ve don’t in high school,” Udiakumar said. “I’ve passed all my AP tests and I’ve done all the work I can. CHS has been great for that, I’ve never taken an AP test and felt like I was unprepared.”

Falling only behind Highland Park High School and North Hills Preparatory, DMN reports that about 85 percent of CHS students are ‘college ready.’

“CISD does an outstanding job preparing students for college,” Denison said. “We design our curriculum to prepare students for college. Our teachers do an outstanding job providing learning experiences for students to build their academic capacity and stamina, and the results of that intentionality are graduates who are prepared to transition into college and succeed.”

Graphics by Kimberly Del Angel

Statistics courtesy of ProPublica.org

page 16

. . entertainment

october 2011

Final Harry Potter film marks the end of an era Tolu Salako Staff Writer

I’ve been with them for so long because I know everything about them.”

Along with the Harry Potter novels and hit movies, fans have always had an interesting way to honor the release of the next book or movie. Since the end has finally come, all the crazy Harry Potter costumes and parties are part of students’ collection of cherished memories.

“For the premiere of ‘Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows: Part 1’, I convinced my boyfriend to arrive three hours early to get the best seats possible and there were so many amaz-

speculate what will happen down the road with Harry Potter out of theatres. Harry Potter has been very successful and we are sorry to see it come to an end.”

The story of Harry Potter will probably be read for years to come because of the relatable aspects with the wizard world and “muggle” world. The story contains many morals including the idea of overcoming adversity that make it possible to be read for many generations to come.

“Obviously [Hogwarts] is a wizarding school, so it’s not exactly the same; but some of the day to day issues of seeing my students deal with peer pressure and people who see things differently

“Since the end has finally come, all the crazy Harry Potter costumes and parties are part of students’ collection of cherished memories.” ing costumes walking through lobby, such as Hedwig, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Rita Skeeter,” Farrell said. “It was like a party, with people who we had never met before, trading favorite quotes, making friends and bonding over our shared love of all things Harry Potter.”

The Harry Potter franchise has made over $7 billion in the last 10 years while the last movie alone made more than 1 billion dollars increasing profits of theatres around the world. “[The Harry Potter franchise] was a record setting movie for sure.” Director of Public Relations of AMC Theatres Ryan Noonan said, “There’s no way to

are similar,” Chemistry teacher Emily Blake said.

Students must say their goodbyes to the story that they have grown up with and appreciate the cherished memories of the books, movies, playground games relating to the books and costume contests.

However there are ways to relive the life of Harry Potter by taking a visit to Harry Potter World in Orlando, Fla. or registering for Pottermore, a website offering new background material of the world of Harry Potter and where for the first time being, ebooks will be available. The story of Harry Potter will never die.

“I was sad that [Harry Potter] ended because it was a part of my childhood. I am going to miss it.”

-Vignesh Krishnamoorthy, junior

“I really enjoyed the series but it was kind of depressing to see it end.”

-Jack Parker, sophomore

“At first I thought that the series wasn’t going to be any good, but when I started watching the movies I knew I was going to be depressed when it was over.”

-Sunjna Kohli, sophomore

With the release of the final Harry Potter film, the Harry Potter phenomenon has come to a close.

Photos by Brian Hwu

CHS grad’s business set in Motion Dyer Whitt Staff Writer

Emerging onto the entertainment scene, three former CHS students are combining their skills in music, photography, and video to form what is now known as Motion Entertainment Company (Motion).

Motion is a combination of services including professionally integrated photography, audio and video production, and graphic design. Motion features select artists such as Jay Fresh, Cherisse, and soon-to-besigned Will Jet’son. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the group is that it brought three Coppell High School graduates together with their desires of finding a path within the entertainment industry.

Jordan Michael Johnson, known by his stage name, “Jay Fresh,” founded Motion in 2008 when he began to consider his career opportunities in the music industry.

“At first Motion was just a clothing company designed for skateboarders, but as my dreams of being a rapper quickly started to take off, I decided to turn Motion into a full blown entertainment company,” said Johnson.

After quickly becoming a hit with songs like “How I Roll,” “The Story,” and most recently a remix of Jay Z’s, “Otis,” Johnson’s interests soon shifted from managing his entertainment company to solely utilizing his skills in music.

Johnson’s music has been featured throughout many Dallas venues, including Trees, Rio Room, and Ghostbar. Growing as one of the top indie, modern, hiphop artists in the area, Johnson expanded his operation, bringing his cousin, Tony Mosely, on board last year.

Mosely, a 2011 CHS graduate, manages and assists the company with audio production and advertisement. His role in the company is greatly influenced by his willpower and determination. Mosely, who attends LSU, describes his role at Motion as

“having the responsibilities of managing and producing music with Will Jet’son, and taking care of anything related to Motion.”

Plastered on the Facebook walls of many CHS students are various lyrically captivating tracks from Will Jet’son. The artist promotes most of his music on social networks like Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace. “We do most of our adver-

Graphic by Haley Madigan

tising on social media sites because that’s where our audience connects and the fastest way to promote new tracks,” said Mosely.

“We also released a music video for Will Jet’son that will hopefully create more of a fan base, and give the public a little taste of what he possesses as a rapper.”

Malcolm Wilburn, aka Will Jet’son is also a 2011 CHS graduate, and has been writing music since his early teens. Along with his music video, Wilburn has been turning tracks like his life depended on it, and in reality, he says it does.

“Music is my life, and it’s the best connection I have with myself,” said Wilburn. “Everybody has something they use to get away from the rest of the world, and mine is writing and making music that highlights the moments of my life,” he elaborated. “Without it I’d just be a regular lost soul trying to find what suits me best,” said Wilburn.

Although running an entertainment business can be frantic, admits Mosely, the “hard work” doesn’t really seem so hard at all.

“In reality there are no real sacrifices; when you’re doing what you love it is all fun and worthwhile,” said Mosely.

Motion has also implemented a “street team” to help with the promotion of the company. The team consists of mainly CHS students and fans that support Motion and its affiliated artists.

“As more and more people jump on board to what we offer as musicians, we decided to organize a team of fans to help keep others updated,” Mosely said.

In a closeknit community l i k e Coppell, criticism will always be presents and unfortunately musicians can’t always please everyone. For Wilburn music has always been something that comes from the heart and soul, and to him that’s enough to get credit from anybody.

Like Wilburn, Mosely also feels that it’s his “haters” that fuel himself to keep striving for perfection.

“For me the inspiration was those who said I couldn’t do it,” said Mosely. “My friends and family have without a doubt supported me, but the real reason why I do it is because of the people who simply say no.”

Coppell is a small town, and Motion offers three huge dreams and hardly enough room to contain them. With the world as their player ground, the trio is merely just getting started.

To get the latest updates on Motion and it’s artists, Will Jet’son and Jay Fresh, be sure to check out their Facebook fan pages and to also follow to them on twitter @thejayfresco, @willbejetting, and @motionent.

october 2011

entertainment

page 17

Gosling‘drives’it home Greenia has the X Fac tor The action in the film varies from getaways in Mustangs, Webmaster to beating someone’s head in while How can anyone say less than in an elevator, and everything in 150 words in a single film and still between. All the action sequences have their character completely are crafted together beautifully, understood and the audience be combining dolly shots and slow rooting for them? Apparently motion that make it so enjoyable.

The cast is relatively only Ryan Gosling can do it, as he small, but they all give wondershines in the new film Drive.

Drive follows the story ful performances. Ryan Gosling of “The Driver” (Gosling) who by and Carey Mulligan both did day is a stunt car driver, flipping fantastic jobs as well as Bryan Cranston (Little cop cars for HolMiss Sunshine) lywood producThis film and everyand Albert Brooks tions. By night, (Finding Nemo). thing about it is the defihe avoids the nition of “cool”. Gosling, The film is dipolice as a getrected by Nicolas away driver for the beautiful Los AngelesWinding Refn robberies, as he backdrop... make the film(Valhalla Rising, does in the film’s just so downright awe-Bronson), who beautiful opening does a fantastic some. sequence.

He has no identity other job of representing characters than “him” or “the kid”. He sim- and their emotions with more ply exists, moving from job than just words. Refn combines to job in a wordless fashion. extravagant music and impressive This film and everything visuals to convey emotions that about it is the definition of “cool”. can’t be conveyed with words.

The music is so special Gosling, the beautiful Los Angeand so important to this film. The les backdrop and the soundtrack songs are dreamlike and add a cerare all factors that make the film tain “rough classiness” to the film. just so downright awesome. In hindsight, Drive is more slick and All in all, the songs are perfect for cool than John Travolta in Grease, fit for the style of this film.

The cinematography by Newton which should say a lot.

Thomas Sigel is outstanding as he But understand this, Drive is not a movie about driv- does something very special with ing. Yes, it has a couple car chase each shot: they all move. There is scenes here and there, but it’s about not one still shot of anybody in so much more than that. It’s about the entire movie, which gave the what drives people to do certain film more life.

Drive to me is a real comthings. The choices and actions plete film.

It is very a well-rounded driving people to and from other film encompassing a great amount people is what this film is about.

The film feels like a of drama mixed with a great dream as you spin through its yet subtle amount of violence. never-ending hypnotic phase of elegance. Drive is also ac- Rating: A cented with quick jumps to fast, realistic action sequences.

Wren Culp

Ollivier-Calo-MF/Abaca Press/MCT Nicolas Winding Refn, right, and Ryan Gosling pose for portrait at the Winners Photocall of the 64th Cannes International Film Festival, at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, southern France on May 22, 2011.

Photo by Rowan Khazendar

Sophomore Gena Greenia sang “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele in her audition and brought back a X-Factor T-shirt as a souvenir to always remember her experience.

Annie Wen Staff Writer

“ No” is always the hardest word to hear. This past year, CHS sophomore Gena Greenia tried out for “The X Factor.” She did not advance on to live auditions, but that one “no” that stopped her is now the motivation pushing her to get better.

“The X Factor” is Simon Cowell’s new reality singing competition show. Contestants audition and compete for the grand prize of a $5 million recording contract with Cowell’s record label Syco Music. Greenia’s mother saw a commercial for the show on TV and sent in an audition tape of Gena singing the song “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele.

She was picked in the top 20 contestants of her area and advanced to the next round of tryouts, which were to be held at Grapevine Mills mall. Greenia sang the same song again for the judges and was picked in the Top Four. This earned her a special pass to be one of the first to audition in the third round, which would be the ticket to the live auditions. There was a week of preparation between the second round and third round. The auditions were held at the Reunion Arena.

After she sang for the judge she was told that she wouldn’t be going on to live auditions.

“It wasn’t my best performance,” Greenia said. “I knew it could have been a lot better. I was

bummed at first, but I figured this was just God’s way of saying it’s not my time yet. I walked out of there with my mom thinking ‘It’s going to be okay’. I will get another chance.”

In fact, Greenia is already preparing to audition for the next season of “The Voice,” NBC’s reality singing competition.

“I’ve started picking the songs that I want to sing, and I’ve been preparing myself. I started singing lessons in July,” Greenia said.

Gena was not one of those girls that always sang into a hairbrush.

In fact, she was one of the boys.

But she just always had that love of music.

“Gena’s been singing ever since she was little, but it wasn’t until she was in middle school when my mom realized that she actually can hold a pitch and she’s actually really good,” Gena’s older sister Haley Greenia said.

It came as a shock to Gena’s parents when they first heard her sing.

“The family was watching ‘American Idol’ and the song ‘When the Moon Goes Blue’ came on, and Gena began singing along to it,” Gena’s mom Carol Greenia said. “My husband and I just looked at each other and I remember thinking ‘Wow! She’s really good!’ It was just this moment of realization.”

Greenia is also an aspiring songwriter, and she has written a few songs already. She has also done collaborations with other

musicians “Gena is a very hard worker.

She has so much natural talent and that goes hand in hand with passion,” sophomore Mikki Hoffman, another aspiring musician, said. “When she creates her own songs, that’s when you really hear her, and she really knows what direction she wants for the song to go.”

Gena has been offered to do some studio work already, and as she continues down this road her family and friend are behind her 100 percent.

“I’ve known Gena my whole life,” sophomore Rosemary Brinegar said. “She’s still the same girl that she’s always been, but she’s really matured as a singer. Her voice has gotten so much stronger and I think she has the determination to do whatever she wants.”

Greenia has been preparing for “The Voice.” She has already picked out songs, and she has her sights set on making the big time.

“I really think Gena could make a career out of singing,” Haley said. She’s that good. But even if she doesn’t it will always be an important part of her life.”

Gena has already figured out her path in life, and as each day goes by, she is bettering herself for the future.

“I love music. I want to make it my career,” Greenia said. “And this experience made me realize that it’s possible. Even if you don’t think so, I can tell you: anything is possible.”

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entertainment

october 2011

Television shows make way for new generation Madison Ford

Entertainment Editor

Lizzie McGuire is pregnant and Louis Stevens fights Transformers.

While in reality it is the actors who played these childhood icons, Hilary Duff and Shia Labeouf, respectively, who are now expecting a child or staring in summer blockbusters, the transformation of youthful idols can cause some to reflect on the entertainment o their childhood.

As the stars of childhood entertainment have evolved, so

has the industry itself. Shows once focusing on the everyday lives of children and young adults now expose the struggles of juggling fame and normalcy. The excitement over a release of a colored Gameboy has been replaced for apprehension over the latest iTouch upgrade.

“Honestly I think it’s different today mostly because, I look at my sister, Maya, and she has an iTouch, and she’s about to be 9,” senior Keaton Ozymy said. “And for me at that time, whenever I was her age, I had the original Gameboy. Or old fashioned style

and read books. And I think that was, honestly the only entertainment for us as kids.”

This shift in interests may be attributed to our developing society. As technology advances, so does the way children entertain themselves.

“I notice that with all the technology today, they are really incorporating that with all the cartoons they are coming out with,” senior Lizzie Herrera said.

“I have three younger sisters and they watch cartoon network like no other. And literally, all the cartoon shows [are] adding graphics

with real time 3-D and 4-D animations. They’re just so different now than from ‘Tom and Jerry’ which was out like 20 or 30 years ago. It’s really just keeping up with the times.”

It is not only the technology evolving childhood entertainment, but the content as well.

Some students reminisce on how relatable their childhood shows were.

“When I was little I loved watching Disney Channel shows, like ‘Lizzie McGuire’ and stuff, because I felt like that was the little typical life of a little girl,” senior Brittany Cox said. “Now, shows I watch are not really realistic.

They’re reality shows, but shows like ‘Jersey Shore’ aren’t as realistic. When we were little we had that kind of stuff to look up to and now, it’s bad stuff to look up to.”

This reality television craze, which did not have a large presence in children’s television 10

“I notice that with all the technology today, they are really incorporating that with all the cartoons they are coming out with.”

-Lizzie Herrera, senior

years ago, has led to the development of shows on children’s networks that make references to reality television and pop culture icons.

“I know there’s a show called ‘Mad’ [on Cartoon Network] where they literally incorporate every of aspect of what’s going on with reality TV and pop media,

graphic by Brian Hwu

Gears of War 3

like pop culture,” Herrera said.

“They make spoofs about ‘Jersey Shore’ and they make spoofs about CNN. And not every parent is going to be watching what their 7-year-old watches and if the 7-year-old hears JWoww saying something, they’re going to mimic it. Some of it can be inappropriate but it’s all about what you let your kids watch.”

Senior Lexus Deloach thinks children shows today don’t provide the same intellectual stimulation they did for her generation. “[Children shows are] dumber now,” Deloach said.

“They’ve dumbed them down.”

Students recall the opportunities television shows of their past gave them to explore their imagination. ”Spongebob gives you the imagination,” senior Alexis Pentecost said. “You know like you had when you were a kid. That was you dreaming.”

While the world of childhood entertainment has evolved during the past 10 years, and continues to do so, students still smile when they remember shows such as “Dragon Tales”, “Lizzie McGuire,” “Out of the Box” and “Rocket Power” or reflect on the colored Gameboys that were the pinnacle of personal gaming and reality television was watching someone get “slimed” on “Slime Time Live”.

Both the stars and the viewers of shows gone by have started to move on, but the imprint they have left will stay with teenagers as they begin a life of adulthood.

Gears of War trilogy ends with a bang, Porter says Chase Porter Staff Writer

Epic is the only word describing Gears of War 3, the final installment in the Gears of War trilogy. The third person shooter trilogy was released on Sept. 20 but went out with a bang.

In 2006, Epic games began production on the sci-fi, third person shooter, the original Gears of War and it immediately became an instant favorite. After the game was released in 2007 the franchise became one of the major shooters on the Xbox 360 platform along with the Call of Duty and Halo franchises.

“I’m a fan of the Call of Duty games but I think I’m going to buy Gears of War 3 because its something different and everyone says it’s a lot of fun,” senior Matthew Ainsworth said.

Epic games ended this

much-loved trilogy with the best game out of the three. The game incorporates everything long time fans and just all around gamers love; a ton of action, great story line and some corny jokes thrown in here and there.

“I’m going to buy Gears of War 3 because it’s something different and everyone says it’s a lot of fun.”

-Matthew Ainsworth, senior

The final chapter once again follows the actions of Marcus Fenix, the main character, and the rest of Delta squad in their war against the Locusts. Throughout the campaign mode all the loose ends are tied up from the past games with a bunch of little surprises along the way and the classic corny jokes that is Gears

Graphic courtesy MCT Campus

of War’s trademark.

Also, the desperate and dire feel to all of the characters makes for a great story mode that won’t leave long time fans disappointed.

“I always thought Gears of War was fun because it’s different from most games,” senior Ethan Evans said. “Also, the game is really fun to play with friends whether your playing campaign or online against other people.”

Not only is the story well put together, but also the landscape is incredible. Throughout the campaign and the multiplayer mode the games graphics are extremely polished and with the incorporation of the different lighting and billowing smoke in the distance, the intensity of the game is incomparable.

Something that Gears of War is known for is the combination of sound effects and music,

which gives the player a sense of urgency during the heat of the battles. Also, the games incorporation of music into the game play makes the game feel that much more macho while at the same time keeping it fun and memorable.

“I usually like to play sports games like Fifa [soccer] and Madden [football] but Gears of War has always been fun because it’s not as repetitive as some of the other shooters games can be,” senior Michael Fix said.

Epic Games also includes new game modes including beast 2.0, allowing you to play as the locust against delta squad. They also revamped the classic horde mode which will keep players entertained into he holiday season.

Not only are the game modes new and improved but the designers also added a few new weapons that are sure to entertain players.

Gears of War 3 isn’t just a great game because of the effects and the game modes but it stands out because of the smoothness of how the game plays. No matter what you are doing whether you’re sprinting, shooting from cover, or jumping over obstacles the game reacts swiftly and smoothly to action on the controller unlike the previous two games.

Not matter if your just a recreational player or a hardcore gamer, Gears of War 3 is a classic Xbox 360 game. Overall, the game is very entertaining and long time fans of the series will be blown away by the surprises in the games story and the reworked graphics that really set the game apart from others in the same genre.

october 2011

entertainment

Underclassmen step into the

page 19

Beauty and the Beast

Caroline Carter Staff Writer

Oftentimes underclassmen find themselves in the shadows of juniors and seniors within teams and organizations. But with CHS Theater’s upcoming production of “Beauty and the Beast,” many of the sophomores and freshmen are stepping into the spotlight.

The drama department of Coppell High School has started its preparations for the fall musical, which will premier in November. This is no small undertaking, as it is one of the biggest productions CHS has ever put on.

“We are really trying to outdo ourselves this year,” sophomore and Drama Club Secretary Mary Claire Phillips said. “It is really a group effort, and seeing the final product in November will be fulfilling.”

“Beauty and the Beast” is a musical where the supporting roles are just as important as the leads. With many scenes where nearly all the cast is present, the production will require the cast to pull together and produce an acceptable performance.

“The students are playing a massive role in creative process this time,” Phillips said. “We have three student choreographers and even a set designer.”

As the musical does have several large dance numbers, director Lisa Tabor enlisted the help of several students to serve as assistant choreographers,

one of who is sophomore Kristin Schulz along with juniors Katie Kunkle and Sarah Bauer.

Many freshmen have also been eager to contribute to the play, whether through backstage work or acting. A workshop was held in early August, giving hopeful students a chance to prepare for the auditions. It also showed many of the veteran performers that the new group of students had an immense amount of talent.

“This year we don’t have very many upperclassmen; it’s kind of their job to step up and they’re doing really well,” senior and President of the Drama Club Erika Thrasher said. “Even one of the girls that was called back for Belle was a freshman.”

Junior Maddie Migis is also impressed by the amount of sophomores and freshmen who have been receiving the bigger roles.

“When I was a freshman, this would have never happened just because the seniors we had were so good,” Migis said.

But luckily for sophomore Emily McIntyre, who landed the role of Belle, receiving the lead female role was a huge accomplishment for her.

“I never thought that this would ever happen to me, and it is the coolest thing in the world,” McIntyre said. “I get so excited when I read the script that I get to play Belle.”

According to McIntyre, It was a very intense audition process, as many people wanted the role.

“For the other parts I auditioned for, it wasn’t as scary as going out for Belle. But when I went to audition for Belle, I had it in my head that I really wanted this more than anything in the world,” McIntyre said. “But it was really scary going up against all the seniors that have been there for awhile.”

“I never thought that this would ever happen to me, and it is the coolest thing in the world.”

-Emily McIntyre, sophomore

This fear, however, did not stop McIntyre from perusing her goal. When the cast list was posted McIntyre saw her name on the list and was ecstatic to have earned the role.

“I am just so excited for this.

It is definitely going to be one of the best plays that CHS has seen in a long time,” McIntyre said.

“I am extremely honored to receive this role, and there were so many other people interested in the role that were just as worthy,” McIntyre said. “To be given this role is a huge accomplishment for me, and I hope that I preform the role well. I am very excited for this play and can not wait for the first performance.”

Tabor is also extremely ex-

cited to be putting on “Beauty and the Beast”. Last year’s production, “Into the Woods” did not bring as much profit as planned due to the fact that the World Series was the same weekend as the performance. This year Tabor hopes that “Beauty and the Beast” will generate more money for the Drama department.

“I knew it would draw a very big audience, and we are still trying to build up funds from the past couple of years,” Tabor said. “So this year I wanted to do something that everyone would like, and it has a big cast also so many people would be able to be involved in it.”

However, Tabor’s main goal is to showcase Coppell’s best talent in the musical. With many veteran actors and actresses participating and even the new freshmen participating, everyone is extremely excited for the next few months as rehearsals begin.

“Beauty and the Beast” will begin in November.

with

Showtimes: Thursday Nov. 3, 7:30 p.m.

Friday Nov. 4, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Nov. 5, 2:30 p.m.

Sunday Nov. 6, 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m.

Photo by Jodie Woodward

Director of the production, Lisa Tabor, explains how the audition process will go and provides information that will be useful if the students receive a role.

Photo by Jodie Woodward

page 20

sports

October 2011

Jordan taking kicking talent to University of Texas Chase Porter Staff Writer

For about as long as the school has existed, the University of Texas has been a leader in college football. Now one of our own Coppell players, senior Nick Jordan, will be joining this prestigious program in 2012.

Before becoming the Cowboys starting kicker, Jordan was playing peewee football as a safety and receiver. As he progressed within the Coppell football programs, he started focusing primarily on kicking. During his sophomore year Jordan got the oppurtunity to kick at the varsity level.

“I’ve wanted to play Division I football ever since I became

a varsity starter and realized my potential,” Jordan said.

Since Jordan’s first start sophomore year, he has practiced and improved to get where he is now. Jordan even made the deci-

I believe that he’s the best kicker in the state and definitely one of the top kickers in the nation - Coach, Joe McBride sion after sophomore year to quit the lacrosse team and focus primarily on kicking to achieve his goal of D-I recruitment.

“Nick has not only grown in size and strength but also in

confidence and experience on the field,” football coach Joe McBride said. “His practice and work ethic while practicing is also a major part of how good he is.”

Now a senior, Rivals.com has ranked Jordan the sixth best kicker in the country. His ability to kick the ball out of the end zone and hit long field goals with ease under pressure has made him a top-kicking recruit for the class of 2012.

“I believe that he’s the best kicker in the state and definitely one of the top kickers in the nation,” McBride said.

During the recruiting process Iowa State, OU, Illinois, Texas Tech and UT contacted Jordan.

Not only did Jordan contact the coaches but McBride also had a

important role in Jordan’s recruiting process.

“I had a lot of communication with the coaches contacting Nick just trying to promote him as a player,” McBride said, “I just try to educate the players about the recruiting process and the teams they are being recruited by and then its up to the player to preform and choose a school.”

Nick chose UT while on an official visit in Austin. He was told to contact the UT football coach Mack Brown after the tour and was told he would be informed about his stance on the team.

When Jordan called Brown he was informed that the Longhorns could use his kicking talents.

“I was extremely excited when I was told to call the coach,

but I was speechless when he offered me a spot on the team for next year,” Jordan said.

Jordan will begin his college-kicking career next fall, but for now Jordan and the rest of the team needs to focus on the season at hand.

“This season will be good for Nick because he can get some more experience kicking under pressure before he goes and plays at the next level,” McBride said.

Jordan’s fellow teammates are also ready for the rest of the season and anxious to see how Jordan plays during his final season as a Cowboy.

“I think he will be consistent as always and will be there if we need him in close games,” senior linebacker Matthew Ainsworth said.

Photos by Ivy Hess.

Coppell High School senior Nick Jordan recently committed to the University of Texas starting in fall of 2012, after playing as the Cowboys starting kicker for the past three years.

Robben steps up to the plate After being named the sports editor of the 2011-2012 Sidekick at the end of my sophomore year, the reality of the challenges I would be facing quickly set in. Not only was I now responsible for the coverage of the immense number of sporting events that dominate Coppell High School, but also as the first everfemale sports editor I had a whole new set of obstacles coming my way.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining. I love my position as sports editor and everything that comes with it, but sometimes being a girl in a guy’s world can have its drawbacks.

One of the most challenging aspects of my position is having to write about a sport I have no experience with: football.

I have played every sport from soccer and swimming, to volleyball and track, but the one sport I have not and will never play is football. Having a lack of football experience might sound like a minor setback, but when you are trying to fill the shoes of former sports editors who knew everything about football, it can get a little overwhelming.

I am following a long line

of very talented sports editors, who seemed to cover every game flawlessly, showing little stress or worry that it would get done or done well. When watching those before me, I never saw how much stress and planning goes in every week to make sure there is always someone at every game or event.

It takes an immense amount of patience, flexibility and a willingness to give up time that I was not expecting and that many people do not understand.

Another challenge I have begun to face, is more of a frustration than anything else. It is a lack of respect. Many of The Sidekick sports writers, a majority of which are guys, see me as just some girl who edits their stories and should not be telling them what to do. As a result, most of the things I tell them or ask them to do goes in on ear and out the other.

Though these challenges can be hard to deal with, being the first female sports editor has given me the exciting opportunity to change the sports section into something different than it has ever been before.

Sports sections have no problem drawing in readers, but

they have a tendency to be plain and boring. I have the chance to bring a more creative and fun element to the section. I get to bring the section to life with stories that are more than just statistics and game scores.

Also, in years past, The Sidekick sports section has been largely built on boys sports, such as football, soccer, and basketball, leaving girls sports behind. I am aware of a variety of the sports here at Coppell High School, girls’ and boys’, I will be able to make a more well rounded sports section and give recognition to sports that might not always get it.

Though my year as sports editor will bring more challenges, I am looking forward to fulfillng my job and changing the sports section for the better.

Sammy Robben Sports Editor

october 2011

sports

page 21

Larson poised to lead Cowboys to football title continued from pg. 1 “I have been working all my life for the privilege to be the starting quarterback, and the transition that the team has had to make from last year to this has been made a lot easier by having a great team and a great offensive line,” Larson said.

Only three games into the season Larson has been performing well for his first season at starting quarterback. Already 586 passing yards with an almost 70 percent completion percentage he has already begun provi n g himself

and still has the majority of the season to play.

“I want to make sure that I prove myself as a player and make sure that my performance speaks for itself,” Larson said.

In practice, Larson is trying to lead by example a n d vocally to promote t h e best

team the Cowboys possibly can.

“I try to lead and prepare the team by making sure that we are going fast on every single play that we run in practice,” Larson said. “I try and make sure that we are going fast on every single drill so that we stay ready for the games to come physically and mentally.”

Larson not only brings leadership and experience to the team from playing on the varsity level last year, but he also brings a dedication to the game. He has been playing football since he was eight and made a commitment to be the best he can be.

“Jakes biggest attribute that he brings to this team is his dedication to the game and that’s what real football players are all about,” McBride said.

Not only has Larson had to step up to the starting quarterback spot, but many other seniors have had to make the big transition from junior varsity to the “Friday night lights” team.

Many players are also

trying to put their mark on the team and high school football by trying to prove themselves not only to the Cowboys but the college scouts.

“A bunch of the guys are trying to get scholarships to the next level because they love playing the sport and getting a scholarship for some of these guys is how they are going to get into some of these better colleges,” senior inside linebacker

“I try and make sure that we are going fast on every single drill so that we stay ready for the games to come physically and mentally.”

-Jake Larson, senior Ethan Evans said.

For Larson, being the starting quarterback for the Cowboys has given him exposure to colleges looking for another quarterback. He has received

college looks from many schools with top 25 rankings in the nation for college football including, Missouri, Baylor, Texas Tech, Nevada, UCLA and potentially many more if he can keep up his winning record.

“There are a lot of schools already looking at him from before this season because of recruiting camps and things like that,“ McBride said. “This season is his time to earn that scholarship.”

For now, Larson is trying to focus on his senior year and this season more than anything else.

“I try to keep my mind off of recruiting so I can focus on the season,” Larson said.

Only three games into the season Larson has been playing very well for a quarterback who had spent last year in the shadows. The Cowboys are hoping they can come together and continue their current winning streak.

< Senior Jake Larson assumes the position of quarterback for the Cowboys’ 2011 football season.

Photo by Jodie Woodward

Favorite pump-up song “Let’s Go” - Lil’ Jon

Favorite food Anything my mom makes

Dream car Bugatti

Dream place to live California or Hawaii

Favorite movie Blood Diamond

What position would you play if not Quarterback?

Receiver

Celebrity crush Zoë Saldana

page 22

sports

october 2011

FOOTBALL PREVIEW COWBOYS GEAR UP FOR DISTRICT PLAY Photos by Rachel Bush and Rowan Khazendar

Thomas Hair Staff Writer

Until the final second of the final game, last year’s Coppell Cowboys football season was a glorious one. Characterized by colossal victories and a District 7-5A title, last season cemented Coppell’s place as one of the elite football programs in the state.

Saying that there is pressure for this year’s team to succeed would be a massive understatement.

“The expectations are really high since the guys from last year really put us on the map,” sophomore defensive back Troy Parker said. “So everyone’s really looking up to that for us to keep our record up.”

But this year’s team is not the same as its predecessors. The Cowboys lost many starters and key players on both sides of the ball. As a result, this season’s team will by and large be a young and inexperienced one.

One could even go as far as to say that it is a rebuilding year for Coppell.

However, the Cowboys and their coaches are confident they have what it takes to achieve great things, and maybe even win a coveted state title, despite

the relative inexperience.

“We do recognize that we lost seven starters on defense to graduation, so we’re pretty young on defense,” defensive coordinator Mike DeWitt said.

“But we still have high expectations for the kids that have filled in and obviously we still want to win and get better every week.”

Although familiar faces such as Cam McDaniel [Notre Dame] and Bennett Okotcha

and a height of 6-4, Larson is an intimidating figure at quarterback. “[Larson] is a kid that’s been very eager for it to be his time,” head coach Joe McBride said. “He’s very committed to being a good quarterback and I know he interacts with the kids well. He just needs the experience, and should get better game to game.”

While certain players will carry the torch, the coaches have stressed that the key to success “The mentality is to be will be their ability to play as a savage, we play with no team and have each player carry remorse.” their own weight.

“We try to emphasize that -Patrick Hemphill, it’s a team effort,” DeWitt said. senior linebacker “You have to have 11 guys on the field playing together, not just 10.

[Oklahoma] have gone on to big- We try to sell that to the kids that ger and better things, the Cow- it takes all 11, not one guy that’s boys are still loaded with play- more or less important.” makers, and new leaders have One thing is for sure: the stepped up to the mantle.

Cowboys’ ability to play as a The team captains are Sam team will be tested this season.

Rice, David Busby, Austin Buss, Coppell has returned to District Jake Williams and Jake Larson. 7-5A, which is considered by These seniors will play a pivotal many to be the most difficult disrole in guiding this young Cow- trict in the state. boys team to the postseason.

Every team in the district Perhaps the most signifi- has the potential to make a great cant new playmaker is starting run, but the Cowboys are confiquarterback Jake Larson. With dent they can handle any oppoimpressive running capabilities sition they face, even Coppell’s

infamous rivals – Southlake Carroll being the most prominent.

“Southlake and Denton Guyer are tough but besides that, we feel like we can just dominate anybody we play,” senior Linebacker Patrick Hemphill said.

“The mentality is to be savage, we play with no remorse.”

After securing victories over Mesquite Horn, Arlington and Jesuit in their first three games, the Cowboys appear every bit as dedicated to winning as they did last season. However, it takes more to win than that sheer passion for winning. Fortunately for Coppell, the Cowboys have much more going for them than that.

They are ripe with weapons on the offensive side of the ball.

Larson aside, juniors Jacob Logan and Luke Jenner have raised eyebrows with impressive performances early in the season, as has the promising young receiver corp.

But according to players and coaches that were spoken to, the Cowboys’ biggest advantages are with the big men on the line.

As the old saying goes, the game is won in the trenches.

“The thing we have going for us is that we have a solid defensive line and a solid offensive

line,” DeWitt said. “If you can be really great up front on both sides, then I think you’ve got a good chance.”

Despite all the promising aspects of this blossoming Cowboys squad, there are areas that need significant improvement – and McBride readily acknowledged it when asked whether Coppell is good enough to win a state title.

“Not [good enough] right now, but we’re an unfinished product,” McBride said. “I want to improve consistency all over from every position. I hope that weeks from now we’ll be a lot better and play at a very high level. And hopefully, by then we will be [good enough].”

In the meantime, the Cowboys are working diligently to ensure that this improvement takes place. Every day the team practices together in the grueling Texas heat to achieve the height of their potential. And for an outstanding program of tradition like Coppell, the skies are the limit.

“What makes this team special is the heart that we show,” Hemphill said. “We have a lot of young players, but we’ve all stepped up and shown that we’re ready to go.”

october 2011

sports

page 23

Ogbogu quickly gains recognition in volleyball to work hard in order to get where you want to go,” Ogbogu said.

Staff Writer She exhibits all the necessary traits of an ideal high school Junior Chiaka Ogbogu em- volleyball player. Her work ethic, bodies the definition of the word attitude and commitment are “determination.” A raw athlete well-known by teammates and with God-given ability, Ogbogu coaches. has refined her skills and devel“I couldn’t imagine not playoped her talent. ing. I have a passion for volleyHaving played on the sev- ball, and when you have a passion enth grade C team and eighth for something, you desire to sucgrade B team at Middle School ceed at it,” Ogbogu said. “HonNorth, Ogbogu has escalated up estly though, none of this about the ladder of volleyball success, me matters until we get our state now a second-year varsity star. championship ring.”

The strange thing is, so few Her teammates have the people in the area have any idea same mindset and also recognize of just how good Ogbogu is at her significance on and off the volleyball. If the secret was not court. already out, it is now.

“She’s really reliable and has Although there has been such a consistently positive atlittle recognition of Ogbogu’s titude,” junior teammate Cassidy accomplishments, the attention Pickrell said. from the volleyball world has “Chiaka is very humble – been abundant. She has accumu- it is rare that she will get excited lated an extensive about her list of accolades own play, but “I couldn’t imagine not she celebrates and accomplishments. playing. I have a pas- loudly for her During the sion for volleyball, and teammates,” summer, Ogbogu when you have a pas- coach Julie was voted a memGreen said. sion for something, you ber of the AAU H e r desire to succeed at it.” e m p h a s i s All-American team. In addicharac-Chiaka Ogbogu, junior on tion, Ogbogu was ter traits and voted the Most Valuable Player of respect from those around her the Allen tournament, and in the shows she has more going for her Duncanville tournament Ogbogu than simply sheer athleticism on was first-team all tournament. the court.

Most recently, Ogbogu won the Of course, any athlete perLone Star Player of the Week forming at this level requires an award for the entire state of Texas. enormous amount of athletic Ogbogu cites dedication, prowess and innate giftedness. individual work and a passion for Standing tall at 6-1, Ogbogu posthe game as reasons for her dras- sesses physical qualities envied by tic improvement and immense opponents and coveted by coachrecent success. es.

“Through playing volley“Chiaka is the most athletic ball, I’ve learned that you’ve got person I’ve ever met,” Pickrell Seth Slover

said. “She jumps out of the gym.

In all honesty, Chiaka could finish her career at Coppell as the most decorated volleyball play-

er in a very long time from our school.”

Her athleticism and talent has attracted the attention of

numerous Division I universities including the University of Texas, Florida State, Penn State and TCU. These schools contacted her and had her visit their campuses to get a feel for her college intentions. Three weeks after visiting, Ogbogu called the head coach of the University of California Berkley saying that she had elected to play volleyball there.

“Chi is definitely a game changer - a difference maker,” Green said. “She has the ability to make these incredibly athletic plays in a critical moment, causing the momentum to shift in our favor and giving our team a much-needed push. She is one of the players I want to have the ball at the end of the game - she plays well under pressure. She refuses to quit.”

A true competitor like her does indeed “refuse to quit”. With nearly two more years here at Coppell, everyone knows that the best of Chiaka Ogbogu is still to come.

Photo by Ivy Hess

Junior Chiaka Ogbogu is receiving attention from Division I volleyball recruiters.

Sister act takes court with Cowgirls volleyball

the current record holder on the varsity track team for high jump with an impressive jump of 5’4. This upcoming track season, Kylie plans to participate in the triple jump and high jump events, much like her older sister.

For now, Kylie’s focus will be purely volleyball, and luckily, her adjustment to varsity volleyball has gone very smoothly.

“I’ve known a lot of the players because they’re Cassidy’s friends or have played on the same club team as her for the longest time,” Kylie said.

In fact, Kylie sees the Cowgirls more as a family than a volleyball team.

Photo by Rachel Bush “They treat me like their little sister; I’m the Junior Cassidy Pickrell and freshman Kylie Pickrell are looking forward to playing together on the varsity volleyball baby of the group.” Kylie team. said. will get to just that. ters connect even further.

Although she is the “baby” Tanner McCord Although the sisters have Both sisters bring an in- of the group, Cassidy commented Staff Writer never competed together, they are tense aspect to the court and that Kylie has been able to keep up looking forward to the next two even play similar positions, Ky- with the older girls.

Since she was in sixth grade, years of playing alongside each lie being a right side hitter and “You can’t even tell that she’s freshman Kylie Pickrell has had a other, but they are not the only Cassidy being a hitter who can a freshman, she hits just as hard as dream of playing varsity volley- ones excited for future matches. move and play anywhere on the we do. I definitely think she holds ball with her sister Cassidy, and Coaches and fans are also look- court. Similarities don’t stop on her own out there,” Cassidy said. with the start of 2011 season, she ing forward to watching the sis- the court, however. Cassidy is Head volleyball coach

Julie Green also notices Kylie’s level of play and said if Kylie was not as skilled as she is, she would not be on varsity.

“This is just my second time to put a freshman on varsity, and it’s a unique situation to find an athlete that is that mature at that age,” Green said.

This is not Green’s first time to coach sisters. Green coached twins at one of her first coaching jobs at Azle High School, so she has experienced what it is like to see sisters play together.

“They share a unique communication that I think is just going to be natural.” Green said.

Fellow Cowgirls have done a very good job at taking Kylie in and treating her as an equal on the court, making responsible plays and not forcing the ball to, or away from the youngest member of the team. Players and fans alike are looking forward to the first district game of the year, and seeing how Kylie reacts to the district atmosphere should be interesting.

Green sees a lot of talent within the group and has high hopes for the remainder of the 2011-2012 season as well as the seasons to come.

“This is a once in a lifetime chance and I think it’s awesome that I get to play with her for two years now; I’m excited,” Cassidy said.

page 24

. . the sidekick

october 2011

September 11 Coppell kids enjoy a good time on one of the many kiddy rides at the St. Ann carnival.

Photo by Rachel Bush.

CHS life in photos Check out more at coppellstudentmedia.com

September 2

VivacĂŠ! performs the National Anthem at the first pep rally of the year.

Photo by Brian Hwu.

September 6

The girls celebrate a good play and travel to form a quick huddle at the volleyball game against Marcus.

Photo by Jodie Woodward

September 23

2010 Homecoming Queen Violet Coker returns to crown senior Sarah Pye as 2011 Homecoming Queen.

Photo by Brian Hwu

September 24

Senior Vern Zhang is voted 2011 Homecoming King after an attention-grabbing campaign by members of the senior class.

Photo by Brian Hwu

Boggle your brain Crossword

Look at the clues and fill in the blanks with the best word.

Sudoku Fill up the grid with the numbers 1-9. Numbers can only be used once in a row, column, and box.

ACROSS 1. Girls who keep the crowd pumped 3. Who the Cowboys are going to slay on Oct. 14 6. 6 points 8. When the Coppell Cowboys enter the home of the Dallas Cowboys 9. When the crowd stays longer than they had planned

DOWN 1. What the Cowboys are aiming for 2. High kicking halftime entertainment 4. If you pay $2.00 for something that only costs $1.75, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get your ________ _______.

5. Those guys on the field 7. Band time

Find the answers on coppellstudentmedia.com