Volume 34 Issue 3

Bond committee considers potential renovations to elementary campuses

The pungent smell of dye wafts to my nose in the slightly humid, locked guest bathroom. Red color is deposited across my forehead, on my arms and the back of my neck.

I stretch my arms and neck out, relaxing them from the crooked position. I begin again, carefully using the hair coloring brush to paint the creamy hue over my dry and faded locks.

Nearly two hours later, I have achieved red hair. Although it doesn’t appeal much to my parents and (some) strangers I’ve met, I have continued to dye my hair variations of the color red for the past year.

In a very cliche way, I started dying my hair to represent the beginning of a new chapter of life. I have always been incredibly vigilant of others’ impressions of me. As awful as that may sound, it’s the truth. The thought of being an embarrassment, being too much to handle or simply not enough for others plagues me constantly. Obviously, I am a people pleaser.

I write letters and poems to myself in moments of sadness. After I finish putting my thoughts on paper, I fold it and put it inside a black box meant for jewelry, never to be seen or read again.

Last year, out of boredom I decided to open the box and read what I wrote. Although initially I physically cringed because of how, for lack of a better word, cringe the contents of the box were, I learned something about myself.

I care too much about other people’s perception of me.

I started to question why I ever felt the need to please other people to that extent. Why did I bend over backwards for people who clearly didn’t think twice about me? Why did I continually seek friendship from people who simply aren’t good friends? I felt embarrassed for myself.

Ever since, I have started to care less. Of course, this mindset does not apply to every avenue of my life, but simply freeing myself from the shackles of caring too much about things that won’t affect me down the road has been the most liberating experience.

I don’t care if you don’t like me. I don’t care if you think that I talk too much, I’m too loud or too annoying. I don’t care if you dislike the way I dress or do my hair. I am allowed to express myself in ways that are meaningful to me.

After compiling my Keracolor Clenditioner Hair Dye Semi Permanent Hair Color Depositing Conditioner and John Frieda’s Red Boosting Shampoo and putting on a pair of latex blue gloves, I was finally ready to wash my hair.

For the next hour or so, I battle with the adjustable sinkhead to wash my hair with the coldest water possible. I squeeze a dollop of the red shampoo into my hands and lather it onto my head. Next, I pump the conditioner and massage it into my roots.

I let these products sit in my hair for 15 minutes, scrolling through social media as I sit hunched over on the counter. Finally, after nearly an hour, I wrap my hair in a towel, stained with pinkish-red streaks. A red stain on the bathroom countertop, my stained pillows and sheets, faint markings of dye on the walls that I frantically try to wipe off show where I’ve been in the house.

Despite the constant battle with upkeep, my red hair serves as a reminder that although there will be days that are more difficult than others, I am enough for myself.

1990

2022

Angelina Liu Executive Editor-in-Chief @angelinaliiu

In the Coppell ISD board room of the Vonita White Administration building during the open forum on Nov. 14, Pinkerton Elementary School fifth grader Caroline Bales donned a red Protect Pinkerton T-shirt with a red headband. She clears her throat before beginning.

“I’m a student council officer,” Bales said. “I would like my little sister to have the same chance to graduate from Pinkerton as me.”

During the meeting, 36 students and parents advocated against the possibility of closing the elementary campus. The support comes after a 2023 bond committee option included closing or repurposing one elementary school.

“We’ve really gone through the budget with a fine tooth comb and we’ve been able to cut quite a bit in our normal expenditures,” Coppell ISD Board of Trustees President David Caviness said. “Throughout this process, we’ve had several different committees that have been put together. We’ve gone out to the community for feedback through various surveys and dialogue sessions.”

Representing the students and school district, the 2023 CISD Bond Committee is helping develop long-term plans for the district. The committee advises the board on future investments in facilities and technology, with all final decisions regarding a possible bond election coming from trustees.

With the 2016 bond, CISD invested $249 million into facilities, security, technology, fine arts and transportation. The district welcomed a new CMS West, ninth grade center and Canyon Ranch Elementary in addition to security cameras, athletic improvements and other renovations.

Looking ahead, the 2023 bond committee is tackling enrollment capacities, facility improvements, operating efficiencies and a fiscally responsible financial plan.

According to CISD, currently only Rich-

ard J. Lee Elementary School and Canyon Ranch Elementary School are exceeding facility condition standards, while all other elementary schools are either only meeting or are below standard, with Pinkerton being ranked the lowest among elementary schools.

According to Coppell ISD director of communications Amanda Simpson, Pinkerton Elementary was established as Coppell School in 1928 and later became W.W. Pinkerton Elementary in honor of Woodrow Wilson Pinkerton in 1967. The building housed grades 1-8 until 1967.

On Nov. 9, the bond committee was presented four options regarding improvements to elementary school facilities to recommend to the Board of Trustees on Jan. 9, 2023.

The first option is to renovate/modernize all elementary schools to the standard of Canyon Ranch and Richard J. Lee elementary, create pre-K classrooms at each elementary campus through new construction renovations and surplus space and adjusting boundaries as necessary to balance enrollments.

The second option is to renovate/ modernize eight of the nine elementary schools to the standard of Canyon Ranch and Lee, create pre-K classrooms so at least two schools in each feeder have pre-K, closing or repurpose one elementary school and adjust the boundaries as necessary to balance enrollments.

The third option is to renovate/modernize eight of the nine elementary schools to the standard of Canyon Ranch and Lee and create a district wide pre-K Center with capacity for 500 pre-K students by repurposing one existing elementary school at a site to be determined.

Finally, the fourth option is to renovate/ modernize eight of the nine elementary schools to the standard of Canyon Ranch and Lee, create a district wide pre-K Center with capacity for 500 pre-K students by constructing a new school on existing district property at a site to be determined and closing or repurposing one to be determined elementary school.

Concerned parents began forming conclusions that if a campus were to close, the most likely option would be Pinkerton. On Nov. 10, Coppell High School’s cafeteria seated many parents sporting bright pink #ProtectPinkerton T-shirts at a community input meeting to voice their concerns.

At the Nov. 15 CISD board meeting, Pinkerton parent Julie Waters claimed Pinkerton is being targeted as many slides from the bond steering committee meeting suggested that the school may be repurposed or closed down.

“It’s been difficult for all of us, because they say they’re not sure, but at the same point, we kind of know that if they decide to close a school, it will be Pinkerton,” Pinkerton Special Education teacher and bond committee member Natalia Cuccia said. “The reality of that’s pretty heavy on all of us. We want to fight to keep our school open. But at the same point, we have to support what the district wants us to do. It’s a very difficult position to be in.”

However, Caviness assures that there has been no decision made about closing any school, especially Pinkerton.

“There’s a misconception that the bond committee is making these decisions,” Caviness said. “They’re going to make some recommendations. From a board standpoint, we’ve heard their concerns. I think that’s the important thing that needs to be out there is that no, it’s not falling on deaf ears. Specifically within the Pinkerton community, they obviously love their school, and my kids went there as well. We’re listening to them and exploring every option that we can.”

The bond committee will make its final recommendation to the board on Jan. 9.

The committee will continue to explore other options to bring in additional revenue, such as the potential of opening enrollment beyond the 75019 zip code, according to Caviness.

“We’re going to be very thoughtful and explore every option we can and then make the best decision we can for everyone in the district,” Caviness said.

The Sidekick’s executive editor-in-chief Angelina Liu selects a hair dye. Liu reflects over her past self-consciousness. Shrayes Gunna

The 2023 Coppell ISD Bond Committee is developing long-term plans for the CISD Board of Trustees to consider for inclusion in a possible bond election. At the Nov. 14 board meeting, 36 students and parents spoke in the open forum in support of Pinkerton Elementary School against the possibility of closing the campus. Nandini Muresh

Photo courtesy Coppell Historical Society

Youth and Government victorious at district conference

Deepali Kanchanavally Staff Writer @deepali0914

With tense feelings in the air, delegates from all across the Metroplex raced to further their points and present their ideas. Sparks of energy flew through the room as excitement among the competitors rose. Applauds were ample for Coppell High School’s Youth and Government (YG) team, as three legislative medals were brought home.

The three legislative medals were won at this year’s YG District 5 Conference on Nov. 5 at Carrollton R. L. Turner High School.

Youth and Government is a national organization run by the YMCA teaching students how the United States government runs through the modeling of courts, legislation committees and more. District conferences take place yearly where students participate in mock trials and present their respective bills.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a lunch break in between, delegates gathered in rooms to debate bills. After this, all of the legislative delegates gathered in the auditorium to debate two bills chosen by the adjudicators, and the awards ceremony followed soon after.

After debating, medals were awarded to delegates who spoke well and asked impactful questions in their rooms. CHS sophomore Navya Singh and juniors Atiya Merchant and Ansh Jarmarwala won legislative medals.

“It would be an absolute dream of mine to hold a political position, and Youth and Government helped me realize that was possible,” Singh said. “It felt absolutely wonderful to win the medal. Coming back to Youth and Government after two years and going through the debate process made me feel super comfortable and almost nostalgic.”

This year is Merchant’s first in YG. She joined the club in hopes of achieving a better understanding of the government, learning new topics and getting out of her comfort zone.

“It felt like a really big achievement because in the beginning, I wasn’t very sure about my abilities,” Merchant said. “Knowing that I was able to speak at district and win an award felt eye opening because it made me think about the fact that this is a passion I might want to pursue.”

A lot of hard work at weekly meetings lies behind these successes. Meetings are a way for delegates to create their bills, research topics, learn about general knowledge, practice speeches and bond with one another.

In the legislative section of the competition, delegates write bills about topics they are passionate about and want to bring a change to.

“Youth and Government is a great place for broadening our understanding of the pros and cons of things happening in our country,” Merchant said. “We not only learn the good and bad things about topics but also how we can protect ourselves and improve society in the future.”

Now that the district conference is over, CHS YG is preparing for the state conference, which is March 2-5 at the Texas State Capitol. In meetings, delegates will practice speeches, continue their research, brush up on general knowledge, improve speaking skills and improve their bills based on feedback received or things they noticed from the district conference.

During preparation for the state conference, delegates have the opportunity to apply to attend the Conference on National Affairs, where delegates learn, research and debate topics of national interest.

VanderSchee named CHS Teacher of the Year

Anushree De Advertising/Circulation Manager @anushree_night

Math teacher Ian VanderSchee has been named 2022-23 Coppell High School Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made by Principal Laura Springer on Nov. 30 at an all-staff meeting.

On Nov. 8, eight teachers were nominated for teacher of the year consisting of AP Biology teacher Bianca Benitez, AP World History teacher Connor Blake, AP Chemistry teacher Courtney Crosby, AP and IB math teacher Ian VanderSchee, Government teacher Michael Erickson, Head Band Director Kim Shuttlesworth, The Sidekick adviser Chase Wofford and STEM teacher Michael Yakubovsky.

During today’s staff faculty meeting, VanderSchee was announced as Teacher of the Year after all nominees were recognized by Springer.

Upon being announced as Teacher of the Year, VanderSchee’s initial reaction was surprise.

“I was honestly very surprised,” VanderSchee said. “I heard so many teachers say so many nice things about their colleagues. After I heard so many things being said about everyone who was up there, I thought it was an equal chance for everybody. I was very surprised when Ms. Springer said my name at the very end.”

John Watkins, CHS math teacher, spoke of VanderSchee at the faculty meeting.

“I said that Mr. VanderSchee is a great educator who inspires everybody he comes in contact with to reach their full potential,” Watkins said. “He cares for his students by designing innovative lessons. He takes lots of different approaches and while it can’t be easy for some teachers to coast, Mr. VanderSchee literally spends

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Favorite Dad Joke:

his entire summer reworking his curriculum, so he can deliver the most engaging student-centered, student-focused learning he can all the while building relationships with students and other math teachers.”

For VanderSchee, being spoken of by peers was a grounding experience.

“It was humbling,” VanderSchee said. “I know that I enjoy being around my colleagues, and I enjoy helping whenever I can to help and work with my colleagues as a team. But, to have them remember details about how I helped

LAURA SPRINGER CHS PRINCIPAL

them so specifically made me realize the effect of a small, kind word or a little bit of computer help would mean to them in the future.”

Springer appreciates VanderSchee’s constant ability to develop himself as a math teacher.

“Some teachers as they get older start shutting down, you start quitting,” Springer said. “[They say] this is the way I’ve done it for years, and I’m going to continue doing it this way. Mr. VanderSchee is just the opposite. I think he’s gotten better with age. Every single year he’s seeking to grow and understand a different way to reach kids.”

Being congratulated by not only colleagues but also students was deeply moving for VanderSchee.

“By the time I had left the faculty meeting, the [Teacher of the Year] announcement was all over Instagram and Twitter,” VanderSchee said. “My students already knew by the time I got to first period, so they were already congratulating me. The fact that my colleagues said nice things meant so much. But the fact that the students were actually appreciative and so supportive of that decision and everything that I do means the world. I’m here for them whether I win an award or not. The outcome today wouldn’t have mattered. I’ll keep doing what I’m doing. The only thing that is different is that I have a certificate for it.”

The process of nominating teachers comes from CHS staff with oversight by CHS administration.

“It’s the amount of nominations that come in for the person,” Springer said. “Then we get around the table, and we talk about each person and what we’ve seen in their classrooms. Then we’ll go to different teachers and talk about being partners on their teams. And then they make the decision.”

YouTube: Coppell Student Media www.coppellstudentmedia.com

“Every single year he’s seeking to grow and understand a different way to reach kids.”

Coppell High School math teacher Ian VanderSchee was named CHS 2022-23 Teacher of the Year. Nominees were announced on Nov. 28 and the winner was announced Nov. 30 at the CHS faculty meeting in the Auditorium. In addition to VanderSchee, nominees include AP Biology teacher Bianca Benitez, AP World History teacher Connor Blake, AP Chemistry teacher Courtney Crosby, Government teacher Michael Erickson, Head Band Director Kim Shuttlesworth, The Sidekick adviser Chase Wofford and STEM teacher Michael Yakubovsky. Sri Achanta

Corners of Coppell:

Marott focuses camera on community

Meghna Kulkarni Social Media Manager @meghnakulkarnii

Living as a child in Saudi Arabia, Frank Marott sold skateboards on the side of the road. One day, he was approached by a man of stature who asked, “Are you the man that sold my son the skateboard? I want to show my appreciation.”

Hopping on a flight from Seattle to Saudi Arabia, Frank Marott felt the scratch of grip tape on his fingers. Moving to a foreign country, he hoped bringing skateboards would invite the possibility of new friends. One day while skating, a boy asked Marott to teach him how to skate. After building him a board, Marott was approached by the boy’s father, who would eventually gift Marott his first camera.

The stranger took Marott down the road to his camera shop for a cup of tea and a gift that would spark his interest in photography. As an unexpected token of appreciation, the man pulled out a Nikon FM camera, a 50-millimeter lens and some film.

Now, Marott is the owner of Coppell-based photography studio Concept 7 in Old Town Coppell.

Now, Marrott is the owner of Coppell-based photography studio Concept 7 in Old Town Coppell.

Why are you so passionate about photography?

Why are you so passionate about photography?

There’s something amazing about going out and taking a photo, processing the film, exposing it on a piece of paper, putting it into chemicals and watching that thing come to life. That’s the exciting part about photography. It’s fun now because you take the SD card and stick it in the computer, and you see it right away.

There’s something amazing about going out and taking a photo, processing the film, exposing [it] on a piece of paper, putting it into chemicals and watching that thing come to life. That’s the exciting part about photography. It’s fun now because you take the SD card and stick it in the computer, and you see it right away. But part of that process is still not there. So it was really the process of mastering exposure, and the development and all that kind of stuff. And then seeing your photos come to life on paper was really the magic part for me. I just love making people smile. I like to think that my approach is to make photos instead of just taking them. So anybody can run around, just take photos, but we make something.

But part of that process is still not there. So it was really the process of mastering exposure, and the development and all that kind of stuff. And then seeing your photos come to life on paper was really the magic part for me. I just love making people smile. I like to think that my approach is to make photos instead of just taking them. So anybody can run around, just take photos, but we make something.

What is a typical day running the studio?

What is a typical day running the studio?

I live here in the building so it’s a 20step commute, and I’m sitting at a desk. I usually check emails and messages in the morning and check on where we are in all of the jobs in the studio, so that when the production team comes in, I can kind of say, “Hey, this is something that we need you to work on.” I try to keep everybody on their toes and not get too upset over how behind we are. At the same time, I’m running out to make deliveries and scout locations. Photoshoots, except on the weekends, generally happen after noon, and I do a bunch of corporate photography stuff during the day.

I live here in the building so it’s a 20step commute, and I’m sitting at a desk. I usually check emails and messages in the morning and check on where we are in all of the jobs in the studio, so that when the production team comes in, I can kind of say, “Hey, this is something that we need you to work on.” I try to keep everybody on their toes and not get too upset over how behind we are. At the same time, I’m running out to make deliveries and scout locations. Photoshoots, except on the weekends, generally happen after noon, and I do a bunch of corporate photography stuff during the day.

How is Concept 7 different from other photography studios?

How is Concept 7 different from other photography studios?

I wake up every day, knowing that we’re the best there is, but it’s because of my background. I went to photography school, moved to Los Angeles and worked for big studios there; we shot cars. I went to New York and shot for big studios there; we shot fashion. I got to know a lot of the people and a lot of the processes.

I wake up every day, knowing that we’re the best there is. But it’s because of my background. I attended the Brooks Institute of Photography, moved to Los Angeles and worked for big studios there; we shot cars. I went to New York and shot for big studios there; we shot fashion. I got to know a lot of the people and a lot of the processes. So then when we came here, I worked for a couple of photographers in Dallas and did advertising, which is the top of the heap. I didn’t just take a photography class in college and say I want to shoot families and babies. I studied it, was passionate about it and went and worked and interned at all these different places. Then I worked on my own for 10 years in commercial advertising photography, which is very unforgiving. It’s a big, large production experience, and that advertising quality is what I bring to our high school senior level, sports, etc. We tried to bring that same feel to it.

So then when we came here, I worked for a couple of photographers in Dallas and did advertising, which is the top of the heap. I didn’t just take a photography class in college and say I want to shoot families and babies. I studied it, was passionate about it and went and worked and interned at all these different places. Then I worked on my own for 10 years in commercial advertising photography, which is very unforgiving. It’s a big, large production experience, and that advertising quality is what I bring to our high school senior level, sports, etc. We tried to bring that same feel to it.

What future goals do you have for

What future goals do you have for Concept 7?

Concept 7?

I kind of let the wind blow. I hate to say it like that, but my philosophy is always to learn. We’re always looking at trends, and because my passion is in advertising, I’m bringing that level of photography to sports, portraits and shoots. We heavily invest in a new idea, and if we go we promote it, that grows the business which just grows everything, right?

I kind of let the wind blow. I hate to say it like that, but my philosophy is always to learn. We’re always looking at trends, and because my passion is in advertising, I’m bringing that level of photography to sports, portraits and shoots. We heavily invest in a new idea, and if we go we promote it, that grows the business which just grows everything, right?

Coppell ISD Board of Trustees approved Jobby Mathew to fill the vacant Place 7 trustee position.

CBAS, state accountability updates highlight joint meeting between council and board of trustees.

Concept 7 owner Frank Marott takes an individual portrait of Tom O’Hearn at the Coppell High School field house on Dec. 3. Marott has been a photographer for 25 years and serves the Coppell community. Angelina Liu

THE BEAT FROM CHS9

Dedication is a key chord

Conkovich takes over as campus choir director

Rhea Chowdhary Staff Photographer @rhea_chowdhary

A plethora of words exist in the English language, but there is only one that perfectly sums up CHS9 choir director Katherine Conkovich: dedication.

Added to the 2022-23 CHS9 staff prior to the school year, Conkovich showcases her talents and choir proficiency through her teaching.

Music is a complex form of art that requires a deep love and passion to pursue it. The movement of the music caused by the countless number of notes allows true emotion to be involved in the work that Conkovich does everyday.

“I grew up singing my entire life,” Conkovich said. “My mother was a choir director [at the Dallas Opera Children’s Chorus and for the Texas Boys Choir] and now she teaches voice. After seeing her do that, I loved choir so much and I wanted to be a part of it and continue with it for the rest of my life.”

Conkovich currently works at both Coppell Middle School West and CHS9, giving her the opportunity to teach multiple age groups. With the ages varying from middle school to high school, Conkovich details how her work dynamic is very different between the two jobs.

“Since vocal technique is something that is started in middle school choir, students continue to build new skills in their vocal technique in high school due to the continuous voice change and advancement in repertoire level,” Conkovich said. “The change from middle school to high school is the continuation of building these vocal technique skills and a change in repertoire that gives students opportunities to grow as musicians and performers.”

Conkovich obtained her degree in music education from Abilene Christian University, but did not stop her education there.

“This will be my sixth year [teaching],” Conkovich said.“I have taught mainly middle school and worked with a little bit of high school. Right now I’m getting my master’s at Southern Methodist University, I take nightly classes once a week to get my Master’s in music education.”

Being new to Coppell, Conkovich’s arrival prompts her joining a new team in Coppell ISD. CHS Choir director Bona Coogle shares her experience of working with Conkovich and their connection as colleagues.

“She was so excited to join our team and we were very excited to have her,” Coogle said. “Even from the beginning of the sum-

mer, she came and helped us with the Coppell Summer Music Camp and attended multiple meetings before school started to have questions answered. She’s a wonderful person. She’s very kind and caring, from a colleague and friend’s perspective.”

Conkavich has been given a new team in terms of students as well. The art of music requires much skill and technique to both teach and learn, which, in turn, requires trust in the relationship that a student and teacher create.

“She helps put energy into the music and really pushes me,” CHS9 Treble A student Caroline Klement said. “Even if I don’t get something right, it’s OK, she always wants me to improve. I think it’s helpful to have someone who is always pushing me to be a better singer.”

Through passion and hard work, Conkovich hopes to impact her students and help them become better musicians with the development of technique. She also hopes to lead them in conducting music at the winter and spring choir concerts.

“I grew up singing my entire life and I really take this [job] from experience and what we do everyday in the classroom to give students feedback and help them become better musicians,” Conkovich said.

Finding the perfect formula for basketball

and you have to take that with basketball.

Who inspired you to get into basketball?

The digital numbers count down as the last quarter of a game against Prosper. Even though the game is the second varsity game of the season, Coppell freshman Sibusiso Ncube-Socks keeps his composure; he has a method. Finding an opening, Ncube-Socks takes the opportunity and snatches the ball out of his opponent’s hands.

How has being on varsity freshman been for you this year?

It’s been a big adjustment because I just came from playing middle school basketball. The competition and the speed of the game and the difference of how it’s played is different. I had to learn how to play at a varsity level. It helped me to listen to the coaches because they are trying to get me to the right places.

What is your favorite subject and why?

I like math because it’s challenging; you have different concepts and once you learn the concepts doing the math is pretty fun. Math has helped me because there’s different strategies

My brother [the late Simiselo Ncube-Socks, Coppell class of 2014] inspired me to get into basketball. I grew up watching him play and he inspired me to do hard work because he spent a lot of time in the gym. It made me realize what you can do if you put time and effort into something. I look up to him athletically and for how he carries himself.

What has prepared you to play on the varsity level?

In third grade, I went to nationals in Orlando, and we took third place, so I’m ready for basketball season. I don’t really know what to expect but the coaches have told me that varsity is a lot more fast-paced, and I am ready to see that activity.

What is your favorite position to play?

I like playing defense; it’s fun to me to just read with offense. Coaches have taught me [to] watch their hips wherever I might be, because they can’t move without that.

CHS9 Choir Director Katherine Conkovich stands with choir student teacher Jamie Lam in the Coppell High School auditorium during Coppell Choir’s winter concert on Dec. 1. Conkovich is a new member of the choir staff and works primarily at CHS9 and Coppell Middle School West. Shreya Ravi

CHS9 Choir Director Katherine Conkovich conducts the choir as they sing “Carol of the Bells” in the Coppell High School auditorium during the choir winter concert on Dec. 1. Conkovich is a new member of the choir staff and works primarily at CHS9 and Coppell Middle School West. Shreya Ravi

Maya Palavali Staff Cartoonist @mvpalovalley

Sibusiso Ncube-Socks is a freshman on varsity basketball and strengthens his playing skills by applying academic principles. Ncube-Socks has an extensive basketball background which has helped him adjust to playing at the varsity level. Olivia Short

Respect the race to be first

When you think of the word “competition,” your mind may take a trip down memory lane back to childhood: winning first place in a basketball tournament, a class spelling bee, musical chairs; even Monopoly.

You may even remember the embarrassment of losing, but also the pure excitement you felt when you fnally emerged victorious.

Now, as a high school student, competition has evolved into racing to get the highest GPA, become valedictorian or trying to receive the best score on a test. When comparing your childhood memories to the competitive reality you experience in high school, you wonder how those two could ever be even in the same realm as each other.

It is a well known fact by Coppell High School students that the culture, unintentionally, fosters a competitive atmosphere that students experience for three years. No matter what, you can almost always fnd students discussing grades, GPA, ranks and SAT/ACT scores. These discussions lead to a cutthroat contest between peers and an “every man for themselves” mentality.

Undoubtedly, this kind of competition and mindset developed by students at CHS can be toxic, vicious and extremely

unhealthy. The faceof between peers has come to consume the lives of students, and it is dificult to fnd students who do not become entrapped in that frame of mind.

Once you eliminate ranks from the discussion, ultimately, it is not solely the CHS students who are competing against each other; eventually, everyone is thrown into one giant pool of applicants for consideration, no matter their high school. Contrary to popular belief, colleges operate on an individual basis, meaning that there is no quota on the number of students that can be accepted from a specifc school.

The competitive thinking a person develops at CHS, whether they want it or not, comes with hidden benefts students may not always realize. Simply put, when a student is placed in a competitive school where they have to “claw” their way to the top, they are forced to develop key traits to help them thrive in their present situation. Whether that be a solid work ethic, time-management skills, self-confdence, responsibility, self-monitoring or leadership, those skills that fourish in high school can carry throughout the rest of one’s life.

Yes, there are some drawbacks to competition, especially when it becomes too unhealthy or toxic, causing unnecessary anxiety, aggression and frustration. How-

ever, students must recognize that despite those negatives, this kind of competition propels them forward by motivating them, helping them accept failure and boosting self-esteem and engagement.

Think about the competition to be ranked high in your graduating class. Nearly everyone races for the frst three years of high school to have a high enough GPA to be ranked in the top 10%, 6%, 5% or any other goal. When their rank comes out in junior year, they either work hard to maintain that rank or even harder to surpass other people and be ranked higher.

After you graduate high school and go on to do bigger and better things, it becomes evidently clear that the environment that was characterized by students vying for that top spot equips graduates with a diligent work ethic and proper frame of mind, setting them up for success in the endeavors they desire to pursue.

Despite how it may appear now to students in a high school with more than 3,000 students, most of whom are fghting for a limited number of spots or titles, the negatively perceived competition may not be as bad as it is made out to be. Understanding the value of competition in high school is an essential part of making a student’s experience in high school all the more worthwhile.

Maya Palavali Staff Cartoonist @mvpalovalley

Remember all the art we created when we were younger?

Hand turkeys, coffee filter snowflakes, finger paintings; our imagination and interest was limitless.

As the years progressed, some of us stayed on the path of fine arts through practice. And, some of us did not. But, does that mean only certain people can create?

Creative self doubt is present in everyone, but tends to manifest in people who do not typically create conventional art pieces. The idea of having to be an “artist” makes many castaway their materials.

To test my theory. I set up a project to showcase art from a variety of people. When I asked around my classes for people to draw a flower on a sheet of paper, many people were skeptical.

Oh, you wouldn’t want my drawings. I don’t want to ruin your project. I’m really bad. I’m not an artist.

After they drew the flower, I asked a few people what they felt during the process. Most people told me it was a fun experience and felt a sense of joy they were rather surprised about.

Art is beautiful because it is an expression of oneself. Every artist, every poet, every musician feels differently and has different reasons to compose their thoughts.

STRESSING AND SCROLLING

Aarya Pardeshi Staff Designer @CHSCampusNews

Restlessness. Worrying about the future. They are both feelings young adults and many members of Generation Z are familiar with. Dealing with school, home life and being more connected than ever has affected many in this generation, including myself.

Through recent years, Gen Z has been through some of the most striking events in history, growing up in the age of technological advancements and the recent isolation in the COVID-19 pandemic. With stress caused by both, an analysis by Harmony Healthcare IT showed that 42% of Gen Z today have a diagnosed mental health condition.

Growing up, I can’t remember a time where there were not electronics in my household. Starting from elementary school, I was using classroom laptops to complete English comprehension practice and was already learning how to use Google applications for presentations in class.

How does this early exposure to technology connect to stress and anxiety?

Gen Z has been exposed to the world around them through technology, and not just from the news, from a very young age. Social media platforms and entertainment outlets such as YouTube and Instagram are often used to share information about other people’s lives, from all over the world. Growing up in an age of technological advancement and ever growing connectivity has included hidden stressors.

In my experience, I saw my Gen Z peers open social media accounts in their middle school years, which is one of the main reasons teenagers feel so many expectations. While social media is an outlet for connectivity, its constant exposure is detrimental to one’s mental health.

“Social media has created a positive global perspective but also a harmful global perspective,” Coppell High School lead counselor Ann Cinelli said. “Like body image. Everybody’s social media tells them the way they should look and I think that’s internalized by a lot of young people who are going through so many changes and adaptations of who they are and who they want to be as an adult and it becomes really hard because they keep comparing themselves to other people.”

This constant self critique of comparing your life, body and experiences with those of others sets up a very unrealistic view of life. When young people view their lives as boring or unfulfilling compared to others, it can be very detrimental towards their mental health as it creates expectations of what their day to day lives should be.

This recent boom of technology has also impacted the way we look at the world. With most news outlets now being online, information and news about current global events like climate change, job security, migrant family separation and gun violence places an unsettling feeling of uncertainty about the future into young adults who are hoping to join the workforce. Ultimately, it created a very pessi-

Contrary to popular belief, art is not just for the sake of technical skill.

Art is for emotional release. Art is for communication with others and self confidence. Art is for helping with inexpressible feelings. Art is for anything and everything; the only limiting factor is your beliefs.

I used to not believe I was good at art. I watched my brother and tried to recreate the dinosaurs he would easily make. Over the years, I went into art classes and simply did not participate because it just was not for me.

No matter how much I loved the time I got to create, I could not fully enjoy my experience. All because of my preconceived notion on my lack of ability.

In fifth grade, I decided I wanted to pursue art and take myself more seriously. I knew I would not think my art is good at first, but I was ready for it this time. I cringed at the pieces I made, but I did not stop. I did not stop because those minutes made me happy.

I used to be the one to feel bad for myself while watching my peers draw. Now, I can feel the eyes that carry the longing of the simple peace of creation. When I look up, people try to act disinterested and say art is not for them. But, the desire to create art can be felt by anyone.

Art is not just a serious, time consuming skill. It can be coloring books, doodling, painting,

Anyone can be an artist Surge behind Gen Z’s mental health issues

mistic view of the future.

“I think it’s hard for people in Gen Z to think further down the road,” Cinelli said. “We spend so much time in [school] that we spend so much less time looking and watching other people and growing in different things. There’s a lot less of those opportunities because everything is virtual.”

According to a survey done by Kronos, even with ample education, most of Gen Z still feel unprepared to enter the workforce and said that their education did not prepare them for workplace activities.

Even two years after the pandemic, members of Gen Z are reporting higher rates of anxiety, stress and depression than any other age group, according to a series of consumer surveys and interviews conducted by McKinsey.

“I think [the pandemic] brought people a lot more into their computers and phones,” Cinelli said. “Coming back out, it was like ‘oh my goodness, who am I, what did I do’ you know?”

The traditional education system does not include many discussions around skills for entrepreneurship or the range of careers that have opened up since the system was created. Because of this, many experience work anxiety.

“Jobs are changing so much that the old farming and manufacturing and other jobs such as medical are still available, but there’s also so many other jobs that we’re not teaching about or learning about,” Cinelli said. “It’s really hard to make sure that kids meet state graduation requirements and also make sure

that they learn outside the Coppell bubble.”

As members of Gen Z are growing and getting ready to come out of high school in a time of higher stress and anxiety, they have dealt with significant issues in a very short amount of time. The pandemic itself reported behavior changes due to stress. These combinations of stressors are impacting this generation greatly in terms of well being. Work, future stability and health related concerns stressed out the older members of Gen Z the most, a report by the American Psychological Association says.

As a member of Gen Z, I relate to these higher levels of stress regarding my future. The high school experience is nothing like I expected, and it being glorified on social media made social validation much more important than it needed to be. Overall, pressures from school and society make many high schoolers feel lost.

chalk drawings, pen; art is art is art. However long you want to take, however much effort is up to you.

You should not base your skill level in creating art off of other people. It does not matter whether or not you believe you are “good” or “bad.” As long as you want to make art, you are an artist.

Bring out the finger paints you keep tucked away somewhere and make your inner child happy.

Does social media reduce harm or cause it?

Providing safety in millions

Aliza Abidi Staff Writer

“Did you see his story? He’s in the Bahamas right now.”

“No way, I’ll check Snap Map right now.” Whether a teenager posts about their vacation to the beach or current activities at school, personal information has the possibility of circulating in the hands of millions through social media. The intake and distribution of information has exponentially increased in recent years with social media platforms consuming the lives of adolescents. Advances with new features in social media apps that allow easy access to new information and the commonality of oversharing has furthered the lack of privacy.

The diffusion of widespread information through social media is not always a negative. Though many may not consider it, this platform informs a wider audience, develops methods to assure the safety of close friends and family and raises knowledge of potential concerns.

For example, with features such as Snapchat’s location feature, one can inform their whereabouts to people they feel comfortable with and can feel safer on a day-to-day basis. Of course, displaying one’s personal information to a large audience is a security risk, but the use of social media to display location to a group of friends is not necessarily a cause of concern. Using social media to share with a wider audience, through multiple media platforms can find help and safety faster if one finds themself in a dangerous situation.

Knowing where a friend is can help indicate danger or harm and help insure safety, especially among teenagers, as a source of tracking and identification. Personally, knowing that there are ways for multiple people to locate me when faced with harm can be a reassuring factor when being out alone. Yes, I would not like people checking my location without a reason but the ability to choose my au dience and display certain information about me to a large audience is not al ways a negative factor.

on social media. Not only will the use of multiple different perspectives aid me, but the ability of widespread awareness can help the majority share or aid a prob lem or potential danger.

its wide range of viewers are now used for spreading awareness of global problems. Stories of human traffick ing, abuse and inequality have reached new horizons as the problems of a mi nority became a concern of the majori ty. As many cases of missing people are solved with the help of the vast reach of social media and people reposting information, the online connection reaches thousands of hands willing to help, bringing safety to those who need it.

the case of a 3-year- old toddler who was found with the help of Las Vegas Raiders quar terback Derek Carr retweet ing the information to his 270,000 followers.

media being seen as a source of news and bringing global prob lems to the forefront of people’s atten tion through the access of per sonal infor

mation/experiences, security and mindfulness of potential harm has increased. People are less likely to be in a situation of danger that they have already seen or heard about through these media platforms.

Not only do vast platforms help raise awareness of possible dangers, but they also create opportunities for individuals to reach out. Without the fear of being doubted or judged in front of strangers, individuals often request psychological, physical or emotional help online, in front of millions. This helps them find the support they need as shared experiences, foster empathy and with help from a few, lies the support of the many.

Through this support people can find a source of comfort in people they have never met, often resulting in healthier mental well being as the concept of online friends through social media platforms reduces the sense of isolation or loneliness for many, helping find mental encouragement. In many scenarios, most often in TikTok, users send out help requests for funding, safety and emotional support. These are met with people all over the world aiding and giving support to those in need of security.

Keeping security a priority, but not undermining the value of a large audience is a perspective I have adopted. I am mindful of what I post and make accessible on social media platforms, but I know to consider that having broad access to information may not be a direct cause of danger. Help can be provided through the support of the majority and loneliness reduced by the diversity of perspectives.

Safety should come from mindfulness of what information is let out to the public and where it is accessible, but not reduced to the thought that the numbers are what create a cause of danger.

Lack of privacy in digital age

Anushree De Advertising/Circulation Manager @anushree_night

The buildings are in gray and white, as if they have been plunged into some Instagram filter. But it’s not just the buildings. Clothes, food, even people have all become a desolate gray.

Everything is a sea of monochrome, except those posters of the man with the enormous eyes - frightening eyes that follow your every step. The caption underneath the posters runs: BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU.

I open my eyes with a satisfying smile.

I call myself a self-proclaimed “connoisseur” of literature, but despite the many books I’ve read, George Orwell’s timeless classic 1984 remains a favorite.

I found solitude in knowing that the far-fetched dystopian world that Orwell created would never find a home in my world. It was comforting to think my reality would never become a place where my every move is under the critical eye of some murky figure, right?

Right?

As much as books have always been satisfying, I will forever be an iPad kid. As I’ve grown up, so has the technology around me. The internet is revered as a tool for globalization, communication, information and mindless entertainment. But the culture of the digital age, although an absolute treasure, is a double-edged sword.

Upon every new vast venture to the web or expansive search on the internet, we make a continuous sacrifice: a part of ourselves to access the greater world of technology.

What is the exchange? Privacy. This trade for technology seems fair, reasonable even. We pass off privacy in today’s world, laughing at our lack of through phrases like “my FBI agent is spying on me.”

But I have nothing to hide, you say, so why should I care?

After you read this article, you’re going to go home and lock your door because the thought of having someone enter your home is absolutely appalling to you. If you’re a high school student, you’ll go into your room and close your door because you don’t want your parents to distract you. Maybe you’ll do some homework on your laptop which has a password. If I took your laptop to look at what you were doing you would pull it from my grasp and scoff at me. The truth is we find refuge within our privacy.

Even if people claim they have nothing to hide, their actions imply the very opposite. We as human beings intrinsically understand the importance of privacy. To be human is to have a place to go to be free of the critical eyes of other people. We value privacy in the real world to a significant extent. But why is there a dissonance between our care for privacy in the real world and in the digital one?

Much of it comes from the fact that the real world is exactly that: real. We recognize the very tangible impacts of locking our house, closing a door or having a password. Technology is a different story. Although we use technology on the daily, it is much harder to comprehend to what extent our privacy is violated. The inability to see the peeking eyes of the puppets that we fall prey to makes us believe they don’t exist. Behind the veneer of our technology screens lies an expansive terrain of data reducing our existence to a series of 0s and 1s.

Despite the crucial importance of privacy, especially with technology, that intrinsic right is inhibited. It has become progressively easier to access information about ourselves online. More specifically, there are three actors that impose on this right: corporations, colleagues and the government.

At this point, you’re probably thinking, “technology may invade my privacy, but there is no way I’m giving up this absolute treasure.”

And you’re absolutely correct. We can’t just abandon technology, especially when so much of what we do relies on it. So, what can we do about the lack of privacy in the digital age?

First, we must become aware that technology does offer an outlet to access our personal lives. Monitoring our online digital presence and the implications they have for us is a key step to change.

But secondly, we can take control of our internet presence to a certain extent. A simple Google search shows what personal information is publicly accessible. Going through the extra step of only allowing the cookies you want enables you to reclaim some digital privacy.

Every cookie leaves crumbs, and if we don’t sweep them every once in a while, we leave those crumbs for someone else to eat.

Social media can both be a helpful and dangerous place to spread information. The Sidekick advertising/circulation

manager Anushree De believes that social media can expose private and personal information creating an unsafe environment while The Sidekick staff writer Aliza Abidi believes that social media can be used to our advantage to make a safer environment. Aliya Zakir and Sannidhi Arimanda

Manasa Mohan Executive Editorial Page Editor @Manasa_Mohan_7

You’re standing in a highly renowned art museum admiring its beauty when all of a sudden you see two people approach Vincent Van Gogh’s famous painting “Sunflowers.”

In a swift and brief motion they throw two cans of tomato soup at the painting. You watch in horror as you see the soup hit the painting, someone feebly calling out “security” and the two people apply superglue to their hands and glue themselves to the wall.

They boldly call out “What is worth more - art or life? Are you more concerned about the protection of a painting, or the protection of our planet and people?”

A shocking moment at the Louvre when cake was thrown at the iconic “Mona Lisa,” the Metropolitan Museum of Art where “Sunflowers” was the next target and the Barberini Museum where mashed potatoes were hurled at “Grainstacks” incites a social media storm. A consistent advocate for climate action, Dan Rather tweeted “It’s destructive to protest the destruction of our planet by trying to destroy beautiful art.”

There is no denying that these somewhat unconventional protests have gained attention from around the world and have been bringing attention to the ongoing issue of global warming. With the expansive reach of social media, people from around the world can see these protests in an instant. Once people see the videos, they are likely intrigued and curiosity draws them to explore more about the organization or the individuals responsible for the bold move. That is the beneficial part of these protests; they bring awareness in a dramatic and drastic, yet necessary way.

Certain protesters go unheard. Their work is hidden behind the art.

The issue with these protests arises when you consider how there are other advocates in the world that are actively protesting for specific environmental regulation or change, but aren’t getting the same type of recognition.

Instead, social media finds the “food” protests to have more potential to go viral and that gets posted and reposted and reposted, eventually creating an insanely viral video that lands on everyone’s social media pages.

Thereby, certain protesters go unheard. Their work is hidden. Hidden behind the art.

I understand the intent of the “food” protests: humans should focus on protecting the Earth just as much or even more as they care about protecting famous art. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that these protests hide the activism that is lobbying for true, real change through legislation.

But this isn’t just a couple of people who find these protests to be unproductive and disruptive. In a survey conducted by the Annenberg Policy Center, 46 percent of respondents claimed that these tactics decreased their support for climate change efforts. A tremendous 27 percent, in fact, said the protests greatly decreased their

Moreover, there are a multitude of short-term effects to consider. Could museums become less accessible because of the fear of the destruction of their artwork? Will museums solve the problem by just putting up more glass or making the art harder to access?

Either way, these creative protests are causing more harm than good when you consider what is going unnoticed by social media. Let’s stop throwing food at paintings and focus on the real activism that’s happening.

of respondents claimed that 46% decreased

With the exponential rise of social media, the potential for content to quickly gain traction and go viral is dangerously high and in this case, people can easily lose sight of the true importance of climate change protests. People see what social media has curated for them on their feeds or what has gone viral: the protests that could potentially devastate priceless pieces of art.

Take, for example, Vanessa Nakate on Nov. 8 at the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference where she and multiple Fridays for Future campaigners, including Luisa Neubauer and 11-year-old Licypriya Kangujam, wrote “No new gas, no new oil” on their hands. The message was directed towards Germany for their support of new gas projects in other countries which would increase emissions and hurt the surrounding environment.

OPINIONS THE SIDEKICK

protests climate change efforts climate change efforts

Advocating for climate change legislation has been of relevance in recent years. The Sidekick

their support

Source: Annenberg Policy Center

YouTube: Coppell Student Media www.coppellstudentmedia.com

Climate change protesting has gone too far

executive editorial page editor Manasa Mohan thinks that though performative stunts do bring awareness, they catch the attention of social media more often than organizations that lobby for specific change. Aliya Zakir

This protest gained attention from news and media outlets. But when it comes to social media, it was nowhere to be found. No video of their powerful protest took off in the same way that the art protests did.

support. Only 13 percent reported increased support.

Walker embracing the buzz

Adopts beekeeping, establishes club to spread awareness

Bees are rendered in our brains to be deleterious creatures; their depiction throughout the media as swarming antagonists, their low buzz creeping up in our ears at inconvenient timings and their notorious nature of stinging makes it difficult to do anything but flee when one is sensed.

However, Coppell High School senior Bee Club president Elizabeth Grace Walker wouldn’t concur with the stigma. She was able to find the bigger picture of what bees provided.

Walker’s interest in bees wasn’t always something she withheld. It wasn’t until the topic was featured in one of her IB Biology class lectures in junior year that she stepped into this new realm.

“The very beginning of my interest in bees happened last year in my IB Biology class when we were studying MRNA structures,” Walker said. “There was this little blurb [our class] read about queen bees and eusocial organisms, and I immediately became obsessed.”

Walker was entranced by the complexities and intricacies of bee hives.

“Hives start preparing new queens within queen cells, which are these huge, alien-like vats, where new queens start to develop, and they eat this thing called royal jelly,” Walker said. “The queen bee sends out a pheromone developed by this royal jelly that suppresses female bees from laying eggs, which prevents working lay, which is a bad sign for hives as it indicates the hive isn’t productive. That’s what got me into bees; I found it fascinating that you can have eusocial organisms that can communicate and operate as a whole but are so many

little creatures.”

For Walker, when gaining a liking towards a subject, she doesn’t tread past it, but becomes completely captivated by its every component. To expand her understanding about bees, Walker made it a priority to use the resources around her to her advantage.

“My interest in bees was a sudden turn-around for me. I am a person who can become obsessed with things quickly, and I go hard when I get into something new,” Walker said. “I went to the Coppell Cozby Library, and I looked up everything on bees. I found a section in the library dedicated to bees and read every single book there.”

Walker’s passion was solely fed through the words of numerous tangents of the various books she read, until she was faced with a new opportunity where she could experience the beauty of bees up close: beekeeping.

“I got in contact with one of my mom’s friends, Rory Carrick, who runs the local shop, The Jacaranda Tree, with his wife. [They] are both from South Africa,” Walker said. “Mr. Carrick would let me come to his home to see his six European honey hives in his backyard. I would examine what he did, the process of checking [European honey bees] and what you need to run the hives. Eventually, in the summer, I helped him maintain the hives.”

Apprenticing gave Walker the chance to study bees from a different, more tactile perspective.

“Since I read a lot of beekeeping literature prior to beekeeping, I knew in theory how you were supposed to do things,” Walker said. “But, it’s very different actually in practice and having an experienced beekeeper who has been through those things before, to show you those ropes, has been so beneficial

to me.”

Soon, Walker was prepared to utilize her newly exercised skills, and moreover, create an outlet to propagate her knowledge.

“Midway through one of my sessions [with Mr. Carrick], we were talking about me establishing my own hive and creating a club at the high school came up and I was like, ‘That’s actually a really good idea.’ So, I talked to my IB Biology teacher and she was super on board with it and started to sponsor it,” Walker said. “It was an opportunity for me to talk more about bees because I am really passionate about them and also turn itinto something tangible.”

Coppell High School IB Biology teacher and Bee Club sponsor Holly Anderson was more than happy to mount Walker in her ardent devotion as it spread light to environmental topics.

“It makes me happy to support students when they are passionate about something,” Anderson said. “Being able to be here and support [Walker] in her passion is why I am here and do things. Bees are super important to our future, especially when we are looking at food production. They are important for our environment, and they are dying out because of human-caused problems, which causes other issues in the ecosystem.”

Walker is enthusiastic in how she wants to run the Bee Club, desiring to circulate the same passion that got her into bees to other people.

“[The Bee Club] has three main initiatives,” Walker said. “Number one is to [spread] knowledge and expand the practice of beekeeping because it’s a ‘dying’ practice. People don’t do it for a hobby anymore; there has been a lot more buy-in in general because of the attention honey bees have gotten over the past two years in journalistic ar-

ticles through things like ‘Save the bees!,’ and that is good, but the Bee Club specifically seeks to spread information on beekeeping and how that is beneficial to our world. Number two is to spread awareness on not just honey bees but also carpenter bees and other pollinators because honey bees aren’t necessarily the most prolific. Number three is to establish our own pollinator bed, but since it is cold now, we will probably make it happen in the springtime.”

Walker is understanding of the fright one might face when around bees; she doesn’t let that halt her from spreading her love for bees, but act as a driving factor to open people up to new opportunities and help them combat that fear.

“Bees won’t hurt you if you don’t hurt them,” Walker said. “Bees will know how you feel, so if you were to come into the hives, feeling agitated, the bees will know that you are scared of them and start getting aggressive. I know people who have fears of bees that aren’t super rational around them, so my advice is to be friendly with one bee and build yourself up to seeing a hive. You have to be one with the bees.”

The members of Bee Club are encouraged by Walker to grow their connection with bees and continue to educate themselves to the greatest extent possible.

“I was so intrigued by [Walker’s] passion about not only beekeeping and also environmental conservation,” Coppell High School senior and Bee Club vice president Ally Jobe said.

“Seeing her be so excited about something, I wanted to join her and help her start [the Bee Club]. Last year, I [knew nothing] about bees and I was frankly afraid of them, so being in the Bee Club and being with a lot of other people who loved bees has made me learn more about them

and appreciate them more.”

Walker has always strived to make her surroundings a better place by participating in conservation efforts and taking part in the phenomena that is nature. She finds it crucial for people to resonate the same energy she faces with not only bees but also with the world, and use it to their utmost ability.

“From such a young age, the importance of environmental conservation has been pressed into us. We know we are at the heart of a climate crisis just by seeing all the changes around us,” Walker said. “I’ve always loved animals, the environment, and nature sciences. I think there is a point that needs to be made about knowing things about your environment and allowing that to foster a greater appreciation for the things around you.”

Sahasra Chakilam Staff Photographer @sahasrachak24

Coppell High School senior Elizabeth Grace Walker developed a keen interest in bees at a young age and apprentices with local beekeeper Rory Carrick. To diffuse her interests, Walker founded the CHS Bee Club, highlighting conservation efforts and bee behavior. Shrayes Gunna

Blake off to a quick-start in education, following his childhood passions

Iniya Nathan Student Life Editor @Iniya_V

Coppell High School AP World History teacher Connor Blake knew he wanted to be a teacher from a young age.

“He was on fire the minute he stepped into the room,” AP World History and AP U.S. History teacher Maribel Pluenneke said. “He was eager to take over. I would just hand him the class on the first or second day. You normally don’t get that with student teachers. Normally it takes them a week or two to get to where you can trust them to take over. But with Mr. Blake, he was ready to go. He’s grown to the point where he gives a teacher who’s been teaching 25 years resources.”

It is currently Blake’s fifth year of teaching and as a relatively young teacher, he maintains that he still has a lot to learn. He is eager to learn more about teaching and striving to improve.

“Teachers should be lifelong learners,” Blake said. “They shouldn’t be sitting there, saying ‘let me just open up a book and here’s an assignment I’ve been using for 20 years.’ Their craft should always be changing in terms of the kids we get every year. I never want to do the same thing twice. I’m constantly tinkering with things just to see what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes it blows up in my face, sometimes it works.”

His passion started with Egyptology and spread into U.S. and ancient history. As a teacher, he expected to teach U.S. history as that was his main focus; however, he embraced world history

when he got the job at CHS.

“World history is the gift that keeps on giving,” Blake said. “Even when I retire, I’ll never have all of it mastered. There’s so many connections to what’s happening around the world and in our own country. Even as sophomores, they’re eventually going to leave CHS. They need to be aware of what’s happening in the world.”

Blake works with the AP World History team to make different and unique lesson plans.

“Mr. Blake is a young teacher; this is only his fifth year teaching. Since he’s been here, he makes sure that every [AP World History] class is having a good experience in AP World History,” CHS AP World History and AP Comparative Government teacher Shawn Hudson said. “We’ve been successful in teaching a class that is welcoming to kids, and he’s a big part in making sure that happens. My life would be worse if Mr. Blake wasn’t here. He has really taken on the idea that if we’re going to do something in AP World History, it has to be something of value to kids.”

His efforts to get students to understand the content and staying engaged has been working. Most of Blake’s students have positive reviews of Blake himself and the class itself.

“He’s an overachiever in a good way; he always goes out of his way to make sure I understand something,” sophomore Ajay Mathew said. “The way he teaches is really straightforward. Everything he says, I can really understand. It’s not confusing. Every time he teaches, he’s really passionate about what he’s do

ing, and he really has meaning to everything he says.”

Outside of school, Blake does his best to maintain a healthy work-life balance; however his passion for history means that some of his hobbies tend to be work adjacent.

“I love reading,” Blake said.

“I love to read about world history. I don’t really read fiction anymore, I find the real world to be much more fascinating. There’s always so many nooks and crannies in world history I don’t know.”

Outside of his passion for history and teaching , Blake likes to watch the news and admits to watching TV when he probably should be grading. He takes recommendations from his students, and finished the manga and anime “Demon Slayer” last year per student recommendation. He likes stories that introduce him to different cultures and have social commentary. One piece of media Blake is very passionate about is Star Wars.

“I love Star Wars,” Blake said.

“I think that’s where I got my knack for all the specific details because I would read all the books concerning my favorite brands. I would pick up on all these specific details and as I transferred to history, that came with it.”

His passion for Star Wars is shared with Hudson and is among the many topics they discuss when not working together to improve the AP World History class at CHS.

“Once we got into an argument in a team meeting about the nomenclature of Imperial Star Destroyer names,” Hudson said. “He kept insisting it was one thing and I was like, ‘no

you’re dumb; that’s not it.’ The rest of the guys in the team were just staring at us.”

While willing to discuss non-history related passions with colleagues and students, Blake happens to take his teaching job seriously.

“I wish in my first five years of teaching that I was even remotely as on top of teaching as he is,” Hudson said. “I’m not saying that there’s not things he’ll add or improve on as he gets more experienced, but I’ve never spent time with a brand new teacher who had stuff together the way he did. It’s impressive.”

Blake decided he wanted to teach history to high schoolers because of how deep he can go into the contents of history, which he cannot do to the same extent while teaching middle and elementary schoolers. He also wants to teach high schoolers because it is that final step before students become adults and step out into the world.

“High school is very much the foundation kids leap off of,” Blake said. “Half of the enjoyment of my job is to see the growth of my kids to when they are sophomores to where they end up as seniors; to see that transformation. That’s a payoff in my mind.”

One of the most important things Blake wants students to learn from his class is not history itself, but something far more important.

“One of the things we have to learn as humans is that we are going to hit setbacks,” Blake said. “I’ve hit setbacks in high school; I’ve hit setbacks in college; I’ve hit setbacks in my career, dealing with various things. Failure is not a bad thing inherently; it’s something we can learn from. Learning from failure is the greatest life lesson we can have and, [we can utilize] that to make the world a better place.”

Blake takes inspiration from the teachers he’s had in the past, hoping to emulate the teachers that inspired him to teach and to become a teacher he would want to have.

“One of the questions I ask student teachers is ‘Why did you decide to do this?,’ because I want to know their core motivation,” Pluenneke said. “He said he wanted to be what his teachers were to him and I knew right away that he’s going to be excellent.”

While Blake has improved since he first started teaching, this is still the beginning of his teaching career. He has many students and plenty of historical knowledge to look forward to.

“It’s an honor to work with the students of CHS, the faculty of CHS, the administration of CHS,” Blake said. “They’ve given me so much as a relatively young teacher so I look forward to continuing to grow in myself and make CHS a better place than what it is currently and also improving upon what we’re currently doing at CHS.”

STUDENT LIFE THE SIDEKICK

YouTube: Coppell Student Media www.coppellstudentmedia.com

Friendships forged in the fervor of the military are unlike any other. Kenneth Bass, Coppell High School senior, Kenneth “Trey” Bass’s namesake and father, attributes these relationships’ sheer trust they rest upon: “you’re putting your life in their hands.”

Trey witnessed these relationships his father nurtured in his 21 years of service in the United States Air Force daily in Columbia, S.C., his hometown. What for most would have been a close-knit family barbecue or get-together among four was stories being passed from military family to military family. Through his father, Trey garnered an appreciation for people.

“Whether it’s student council, Red Jackets or the band, there’s so many different opinions around me,” Trey said. “Being a leader in big organizations truly is a blessing to be able to allow myself to change. Sure, I’m going to make mistakes, but I can accept that I’m going to learn from those mistakes.”

For Trey, the military serves as yet another ground to elicit friendships and explore diverse walks of life.

“That’s the most exciting thing about the military, that the military takes in so many different people from all different branches,” Trey said. “You could have a real -

ly smart, valedictorian who’s going to be an engineer and then somebody who has no education at all; he can still come fight for our nation’s freedoms. There’s a common ground; it’s a melting pot.”

While the Bass family’s military history can be traced back through generations, there was one moment that invoked his desire to follow in his father’s footsteps.

“The long nights, the trips where he was away, whether it was a drill or he was deployed, I was inspired,” Trey said. “But, I think the pinnacle moment was in 2017. My dad was retiring in May of 2017, after 21 years of faithfully serving our country.”

At only 12, Trey was invited by his father to perform the national anthem at his retirement ceremony. Alongside his voice was the start of a goal.

“That was the moment I knew I had to keep this legacy going, and it wasn’t an obligation,” Trey said. “My dad allowed me to make a choice and I felt like that obligation turned into a passion: to follow the people who’ve gone before me, including my grandparents.”

Trey’s passions fell in line with his military endeavors, by which he aims to become a Judge Advocate General Corps (JAG) Attorney. Attorneys offer litigation for members of the military, adjourning Trey’s love for fairness, the law and supporting others (a “know-it-all,” his father jokes).

Buoyed by his father’s unending support, he crafted

his own path.

“I want it to be for Trey because he’s going to be the one that’s going to be getting up at five in the morning, running, physical therapy and chasing excellence,” Mr. Bass said. “[I tell him] to put a dent in the universe. I was an air traffic controller, so our standard was excellence. We didn’t tolerate just mediocrity because when you’re dealing in the air traffic control world and people’s lives, you have to be good at what you do. There’s not a lot of margin of error. I was around high-caliber people, excellent at their jobs, really just

excellent at life.”

Within the walls of CHS, Trey chases excellence, building significant relations in extracurriculars. It is because he looks for stories and sets differences aside that he has carved himself out as a keen leader in and outside of school.

“Trey knows no strangers; in his world, everyone is a friend,” CHS Student Council co-sponsor Benjamin Stroud said. “With his collaboration and knowing that not always will he 100% agree [with others], he has gained flexibility and sense of getting the job done, which will propel him in his path.”

Trey recalls the moments

in which his father instilled in him core lessons—the sort that he’ll carry on the road ahead. Knowing the three key tenets of a leader are maintaining integrity, looking for avenues to be selfless and striving for excellence, Trey dotes on his past, claiming it to be ‘his drive.’

Trey’s deep connections with his history have transcended the test of time, a practice he’s furthered within the microcosm of CHS, developing connections with the many faces that paint the halls. His military dream is for them, for the people that make the nation beautiful, for the unity that spurs from a common goal.

versatility of a smile Benson using

positivity to cheer, teach students

Palavali Staff Cartoonist @mvpalovalley

Coppell

“[We] met in kindergarten at Pinkerton Elementary,” said Coppell senior Ally Jobe, Benson’s childhood friend. “While we were young then, I found Sydney hilarious.”

Benson incorporates passion and a positive attitude into cheerleading.

“When you think of cheer, you think of football games and the sidelines,” Benson said. “Not many people [think of] competitive cheer, and how it is such a demanding sport.”

Prior to cheerleading, she was put into gymnastics. She had opinions about the sport

“I would throw tantrums when I did anything besides tumbling,” Benson said.

When she was able to switch at 4, Benson regained the smile that would no longer leave her face.

“We moved to Spirit Cheer and it was where I learned to like the intensity,” Benson said.

More than her interest, Benson has cheer in her roots.

“My mom [Alicia Benson] was a University of Ohio cheerleader

at some point 30 years ago and was a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader,” Benson said.

Benson stayed with her competitive cheer team until the start of high school.

“I didn’t do competitive cheer in freshman year,” Benson said. “I took a break that year to focus because of high school.”

It was a sudden transition into something she had never done before.

“I never did any type of sideline cheer until freshman year,” Benson said. “I wanted to be part of the school team because I love this sport.”

Benson introduced a powerful influence through her bubbly personality.

“She’s as elegant and graceful off the mat as she is on the mat,” senior cheer manager Abigail Berhe said.

In her four years on the team, Benson has become an important part of the cheer team family inside of Coppell.

Benson extended her ability to help others Coppell-based Primrose Montessori. She has a special connection with the school.

“I actually went to Primrose for as long as I could,” Benson said. “The current director was my teacher when I was a little baby [and it’s] a full cycle.”

The students immediately

bonded with Benson and introduced a new perspective.

“I’ve never thought about child psychology, until I started at Primrose and working with kids with learning disabilities,” Benson said.

Her decision of going to the medical field spans back to when she was a kid in elementary school, just starting to think of her future.

“I want to be a psychiatrist,” Benson said. “Ever since I was in third grade, I’ve known I wanted to be some type of doctor because I’m so passionate about mental health.”

Along with working on her academic interests, Benson intends to pursue college cheer.

“I recently have been going to different camps, cheer clinics and to a few colleges,” Benson said. “I’ve actually been invited to go down on the field as a recruit and get to know the team.”

Having fun experiences with teams is not the only part in Benson’s decision.

“All college teams are different,” Benson said. “But you can tell they want the best for each other.”

For now, Benson is enjoying senior year.

“It makes it worth it, all of the literal blood, sweat and tears,” Benson said.

Shrayes

Coppell High School senior Trey Bass serves in various leadership positions from Coppell Band to CHS Student Council, building relationships along the way. Bass is following his father’s footsteps in hopes of pursuing a career in the military. Nandini Muresh

Maya

senior Sydney Benson has always done everything with a smile on her face.

Photo courtesy Sydney Benson

Who wears the jacket?

S eniors weaving standards of service as campus ambassadors

Angelina Liu Executive Editor-in-Chief @Angelinaliiu

Each year, Coppell High School junior applicants are meticulously chosen to be a part of Red Jackets for their senior year. The organization serves as student ambassadors and leaders through acts of academic and community service.

Why did you apply to be a Red Jacket?

Khandelwal: In eighth grade, I was deciding whether to go to New Tech or the freshman center. The Red Jackets were giving a tour of the school. I wanted to be in the same position as them to let other students choose to come to this school. I think they were a really good representation of what Coppell has to offer.

Ramey: I wanted to be a part of something that gave back to the school that has given so much to me. And I thought that being a part of Red Jackets would allow me to do that. It would also allow me to meet more people beyond the people that already knew from organizations I was in and meet people of different clubs and organizations.

Javangula: I applied because I thought it would be a good way to get to know other people. It was something I’d never done before, being a part of a pretty select group of individuals that was mainly focused on leadership. I wanted to get an experience of what that really meant. I thought it’d be a good experience to prepare me for college, where I’d have to make new friendships.

What extracurriculars are you involved in?

Khandelwal: I’ve been a member of the band for over seven years. I’ve also been part of Technology Science Association (TSA) for three years. I’ve also done dance outside of the school for 14 years. I’ve also done taekwondo. I’m a black belt. I used to swim as well.

Ramey: I am part of Lariettes, Student Council, Yearbook, and National Honor Society.

Javangula: part of Eco Club, clean up my neighborhood with Keep Irving Beautiful, and I volunteer at TIPS Free Clinic.

What are your hobbies?

Khandelwal: I really like to sing. Recently, I opened an Instagram account to sing. I haven’t really gotten on it that much. I also really like reading again, I haven’t had much time this year to read.

But some of my favorite books I read were honestly when I was younger, because they inspired me to have an actual imagination. Another hobby that I have [is] I really like walking, going to trails and biking.

Ramey: I love to play video games, which I feel like people don’t really know. I love the Sims and fortnight. I love to read. I love seeing live music. I love biking, both indoor and outdoor. And obviously I love to take pictures and love to dance.

Javangula: I like to play volleyball. I joined the filmmaking club this year and I’ve been trying to get into that. I also recently started going to the gym.

What is on your bucket list?

Khandelwal: I want to do a summer program in another country when I’m in college. Another thing I want to do is skydive.

Ramey: I would real ly love to interview Kim Kardashian. I want to pursue journalism when I’m older, so I feel like I will know that I’ve made it in life when I get to interview Kim Kar dashian.

Javangula: One thing I want to do is go to New Zealand, climb a mountain and then sleep on that mountain overnight. I’ve al ways wanted to see the night sky without light pollution. Definitely surfing or scuba diving, especially in Australia at the Great Barrier Reef.

What is your most prized possession?

Khandelwal:These ribbons from band. The blue one is for state bound. And then the pink one is for being a senior, and they’re just a reminder of everything you’ve done in band.

Ramey: I have this bear at home. I was six and had pneumonia around Christmas and I was in the ICU. Build-A-Bear came in and passed out free bears. I think it just reflects who I’ve become and it just reminds me that even though difficult things can happen to you, you can overcome it and it’ll be fine.

Javangula: My laptop because it’s something from my brother. It’s kind

of like a memento from him, because I don’t really see him that much anymore, because he goes to college. It’s kind of broken down and falling apart at this point.. It’s just a little sentimental for me, in terms of its meaning.

What are you most thankful for?

Khandelwal: I’m thankful to live in a country that has so many opportunities for STEM for women. My parents are from India. My mom shared an experience with me that I’ll never forget. When she didn’t get the opportunity to get the job that she wanted only because she was a woman, I realized how privileged I was to be in America where I could apply to be any major.

Ramey: I am most thankful for my support system. My friends, my family, teachers and anyone that has just supported me throughout life. There have been various times where I know that things have been rough for me and having those people there to just support me through all these difficult things have been there.

Javangula: My plumbing system, because hot water in the morning is not something everyone has in the world. So whenever I stand in the shower, for like, a few good minutes, I’m really thankful that I’m able to access the shower.

What is your dream concert?

Khandelwal: I want to go to a BLACKPINK concert.

Ramey: It would be a festival of boy bands. We would have One Direction because they’d be back together. Five Seconds of Summer. The Jonas Brothers. That’s my holy trinity right there. And then I think I would have Coin there, because why not?

Javangula: Travis Scott, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. They’re all here. They’re playing one of the songs that they just made, it’s not been released, it’s an exclusive song just for this concert.

What three items would you take with you on a deserted island?

Khandelwal: My phone, saltwater to freshwater converter and an SOS signal.

Ramey: My phone, my Kindle so that I can have my books and my phone charger.

Javangula: Garlic bread, water and a phone with a SIM card.

Describe your ideal day.

Khandelwal: I would naturally wake up around 7:30 a.m. in the morning. Usually, I always have some sort of meeting in the morning. I would have some time to finish some homework. After that, I’ve go all my classes and everything and then once I come home, I want to finish all my homework first and then I will probably watch a show that I really like and then read a book and then go to bed.

Ramey: Ideally, my favorite time to wake up in the morning is at 9. I think then I would follow that up with a good breakfast. Then I [would do] things that make me happy. I would declutter my room. After that, I would hang out with friends. And then, since this is an ideal world, I would go to a concert that night. I really don’t care who’s playing. I just love concerts. I will spend unnecessary amounts of money on concerts and people that I don’t even know that well. Because, you know what, I love an experience.

Javangula: I wake up at nine o’clock in the morning, and I don’t just sit in bed for an hour, I get up instantly. I go outside, play some volleyball for like two hours. I come back inside, and start writing a script for a movie that I might make later. After lunch, I go to the gym with all my friends, and we play some Spikeball.

If you could meet any historical figure, dead or alive, who would you meet?

Khandelwal: I would meet Princess Diana. I think she’s a very inspiring figure to a lot of people.

Ramey: Lady Gaga. I think that she’s done a lot to make pop culture a safer place for everyone.

Javangula: Brandon Sanderson. He’s an author, and I really like his books.

Coppell High School seniors Parthiv Javangula, Elena Ramey and Rhythm Khandelwal applied for the Red Jackets for multiple resaons including meeeting new people, giving back to the school and acting on the desire to give tours to prospective CHS students. Along with Red Jackets, they participate in multiple extracurriculars that engage their passions Angelina Liu

Mikaela Straus, better known by her stage name King Princess, has been a pioneer for the LGBT community’s acceptance to the music industry. After years of no songs, King Princess dropped her greatest album yet: Hold On Baby. Her songs range from sentimental to peppy, strums of a sweet guitar to the loud beats of drums. The part of the album that ties all of the songs together is the hope of a better future. The album tells us to hold our loved ones close and tell them you love them. It teaches us it is okay to be upset and make silly mistakes. I had the honor of going to the Hold On Baby live concert on [date]. Seeing King Princess in person, singing her songs straight from my heart, touched me in a way I had never felt before.

King Princess was the first artist I found who created LGBT related songs. I found myself over the years while listening to her greatest hits. I always hoped for more from her, and now I have what I wished for.

Alvvays returned from a five year hiatus with a perfect blend of indie rock paired with lulling pop vocals on Blue Rev. Hazy chords and a spaced out atmosphere create a blissful 39 minutes of music I find myself getting lost in. Beginning the album with a kick, “Pharmacist” opens the album with a blaring guitar solo mixed to perfection against vocalist Molly Rankin. Personally, the standout on the album is “After The Earthquake,” picking up the tempo when Rankin really lets her vocal prowess shine alongside a dynamic beat and more resounding guitar work. This perfect recipe continues throughout the album: “Belinda Says” brings powerful chorus work while “Pomeranian Spinster” draws in punk influences with clever lyricism and punchy drums. Alvvays manages to once again create an album to sink into, falling deep into droned out instrumentation and profound layers crafted into one of the

Carly Rae Jepsen’s The Loneliest Time was released Oct. 21 in a charming resurgence of Jepsen’s quintessential pop sound heard in her breakout songs “Call Me Maybe” and “I Really Like You”. With breathy vocals and bright enthusiasm, Jepsen crafts an image of love and introspection during her own “loneliest times” of the pandemic’s lockdown, experimenting with lyrics more mature and sounds more versatile than used in her previous works. Tracks like “Talking to Yourself” and “The Loneliest Time (feat. Rufus Wainwright)” boast infectious synth-pop melodies reminiscent of a discotheque, while “Go Find Yourself or Whatever” is a country-style ballad with a simple guitar strum. The Loneliest Time finds a triumphant joy in longing, and the album is a revival in more ways than one: Jepsen proves she’s more than a single viral hook from TikTok (I’m coming back for you, baby!) or a decade-old one hit wonder.

After a six-year hiatus from releasing full-length projects, Beyoncé’s Renaissance decorated the summer of 2022 with fastpaced explosive dance and club music. All 16 tracks served decadently produced instrumentals and afrobeats, propelled by liberating and joyous lyricism. On tracks like “Pure/Honey” and “Church Girl,” Beyoncé reaffirms her position as a titan in the R&B and pop genres by bouncing between melodies and flows with ease. Beyoncé posted on Instagram that Renaissance is meant to be a safe space, which is precisely the case. She is not afraid to let loose, feel herself and experiment. On a record in which Beyoncé resonates with her roots, she has effortlessly championed a break from the soul-sucking ballads and technical lyricism that defined music in the pandemic. Bowing out of the industry’s new trajectory, she made a vibrant return to music that is at its core, fun.

lyrics

Black voices in the United States. Lamar’s most recent album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, released May 13, represents his journey through therapy. His lyrics hit the hearts of many people, as they contain personal themes including generational trauma, infidelity and childhood. For example, the track “United in Grief” is about how he struggles to find peace regardless of the huge success. The track “We Cry Together” is about the fighting through the ups and downs of a relationship and normalizing having arguments. A common theme between most songs is struggle, which is why this album is known as an “imperfect path to healing”. “Auntie Diaries” supports the LGBT community and shows the need to love and accept the trans community.

JVKE - “GOLDEN HOUR”

magical. The highlight of the song is the violin and piano chords. Unlike most songs, “golden hour” relies heavily on piano chords, with the first 15 seconds starting with a string of broken chords followed by a rap in the first and second verse. The song also ends with a minute of a violin playing the melody, followed with more instrumental creativity on JVKE’s part. JVKE’s vocals and chorus are flawless and define the song’s tones of romance and love. The instrumental arrangement of piano and strings capture the emotions that one feels when seeing something beautiful, just as the title “golden hour” suggests. - S.R.

On the fifth track of Caprisongs, “oh my love” by FKA twigs explores the delicate balance of a modern day relationship. With samples from FKA Twig’s close friends Suzannah Pettigrew and Abigail Sakari, the catchy song expresses FKA Twig’s yearning of wanting more out of a relationship than a simple fling but struggling to take action due to unresolved feelings. The verses act as an anthem, with FKA Twig’s repeating “Everybody knows that I want your love/Why you playing, baby boy, what’s up?” The upbeat synths and bass accompany the song’s deeper meaning, allowing listeners to connect with the track in a bittersweet way.

- A.L.

TAYLOR SWIFT - “SNOW ON THE BEACH”

The long-awaited and highly anticipated collaboration between Taylor Swift and Lana Del Ray culminated in the fourth track, “Snow on the Beach” on Swift’s latest album, Midnights. The song depicts someone realizing that your feelings are reciprocated and questioning whether your life is a dream or reality. Ray’s vocals intertwine with Swift’s in the chorus as they harmonize about the moment when everything “lines up” in a relationship. The song even references both current relationships and past songs as Swift sings about the beautiful emotion she has felt and how she hopes to hold onto it forever. The dreamy, warm and rhythmic yet haunting melodies combined with the delicate vocals make for a poetic masterpiece that connects with listeners as they take a journey through a once in a lifetime feeling. - M.M.

“Mercury,” the third track and lead single of Gemini Rights by Steve Lacy, is exhilarating right from the start. With supporting vocals of Foushee, Lacy explores the bitterness of his past relationships and reveals his own double-sided nature. Lacy’s lyricism expresses the themes of relationships well, as he tells a story through the lyrics; he provides insight to his listeners by giving a line by line replay of the thoughts that went through his mind during his break-up, and his following path of contentment.

“Mercury running amuck in my mind/Can’t tell if I’m winning or falling behind”

Lacy utilizes a bossa-nova production to generate satisfying rhythms and a vibrant cadence throughout his singing, especially in his post-chorus. - S.C.

The opposite of love isn’t hate; apathy is. Hate isn’t the opposite of love, rather it is love gone bad. Joji’s “Die for You” from his latest album Smithereens is a masterclass in explaining the difficulties of losing someone. Though you may struggle with understanding and accepting the happiness of one you once called your own, your love for them eventually turns not to jealousy but acceptance, finding peace in their happiness even as you diminish without their presence. “Die for You” is the song of the year for the perfection it exemplifies, its heartfelt concept on a touching subject, and its amazing vocals augmented by a slow, melodic beat that makes one recall rainy days and dark nights. Sad has never felt so good.

- S.M.

STEVE LACY - “MERCURY”

FKA TWIGS - “OH MY LOVE”

Denzel Curry - “Walkin”

Denzel Curry’s “Walkin” from Melt My Eyes See Your Future is a punchy track with profound lyricism and an in-your-face attitude. Beginning with a heavenly chorus to the sound of boots crunching against the dirt, Curry speaks on his path through hardships in the world. Finding redemption in a world of failure and violence. All of this is masked by Curry’s dynamic delivery creating a undoubtedly catchy song. I'm watchin' massacres turn to runnin' mascara, but anywho // For the pain, see what this Henny do // So we can see what lies beneath as we pour up a swig of truth // The sun sets as I sip a few Curry’s clash of meaningful lyrics with a serene beat produces a one of a kind track; my choice for 2022’s song of the year. - J.C.

JVKE’s “golden hour” combines pop-rap and powerful belting in the chorus, making the song feel almost

Canadian power pop band

Kendrick Lamar is best known for his socially conscious songwriting and use of dense

to represent

ALVVAYSBLUE REV

CARLY RAE JEPSENTHE LONELIEST TIME

KING PRINCESSHOLD ON BABY

Kendrick lamarMr. Morale & The Big Steppers

BEYONCERENAISSANCE

A peek into some of The Sidekick’s favorite albums and songs of 2022

Enola Holmes 2 finds mystery in history

Saniya Koppikar Entertainment Editor @SaniyaKoppikar

Red hair, green dress, makeup, science books, 12th March.

The game was afoot: me, bundled up in a blanket on a Friday night, the titular Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown) poking around a seedy apartment for clues to the whereabouts of the missing Sarah Chapman (Hannah Dodd) and the both of us about to be drawn into the entrancing mystery of the London matchgirls.

I stumbled upon Enola Holmes 2 by accident, having had no idea that 2020’s Enola Holmes, the movie rendition of The Enola Holmes Mysteries book series, was adding another installment.

Even two years later, I recalled the soaring soundtrack and intrigue of the first movie. I hoped I wouldn’t be disappointed with its sequel.

Starting off with a bang, the movie opens on Enola being chased by the police through the streets of London. I expected nothing less, especially concerning the action throughout the movie. With Enola climbing drain pipes and roofs, fighting corrupt politicians in the catwalks of the Paragon Theatre, and breaking out of prison with the help of radical suffragettes, there is no shortage of excitement throughout the film.

Even so, I appreciate the movie’s utilization of quiet shock. My favorite thing a film can do is make its audience sit back in astonishment.

With innocent reassurance from Bessie (Serrana Su-Ling Bliss) (That’s the phosphorus. Don’t worry, you get used to the smell), courtly guidance from Mira Troy (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) (It’s remarkable what can be done when people

underestimate you) and motherly redirection from Eudoria (Helena Bonham Carter) (You need to look for what she knows, Enola. Find that out, and everything else will follow. She’s probably under your nose), the mystery forms in a thoroughly satisfying manner.

Rather than relying on a jumpscare or obvious twist, clues are laid throughout the story and consolidated in a moment of speechless realization as our protagonists uncover the deadly effect of phosphorus on the matchgirls and Sarah/Cicely’s mission to make the injustice

public knowledge. I was certainly astonished, and I’ve always prided myself on being able to predict movies.

Also masterfully done is the characterization throughout the film. Though a number of new characters were introduced, I was never confused as to their backgrounds. Sarah Chapman’s backstory with Mae (Abbie Hern) and Bessie, as well as her affair with William Lyon (Gabriel Tierney), are gripping and easy to follow. Recurring characters from the first film, such as Eudoria, Edith (Susana Wokoma), Lord Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), Sherlock (Henry Cavill)

and Enola herself, are carried into the darker atmosphere of the sequel well, revitalizing their senses of humor and respective intelligence.

More importantly, none of them feel stagnant: Tewkesbury’s desire to create positive political change is found in his involvement with Parliament and his relative weakness is resolved in his learning how to fight; Enola’s and Sherlock’s stubbornness and respective desires for individuality are enhanced with their acceptance of help from each other; the matchgirls overcame the fear and complacency that is keeping them at the haz-

Trainor returns to roots on

As I put on my headphones and pressed play, the last thing I expected was to be transported back to fourth grade at Town Center Elementary.

All at once, I could feel the late May heat and the heaviness

of a damp “TCE Field Day 2014” T-shirt sticking to my back after swimming. The smell of sunscreen in the humid air filled my nostrils, and I could hear the booming chorus of “All About That Bass” blaring from Mrs. Schaaf’s old speaker.

That exhilarating feeling of nostalgia is precisely the expe-

rience to look forward to with American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor’s newest album, Takin’ It Back.

In 2015, a genre untouched by mainstream media took over the charts in a matter of weeks as the doo-wop style of Trainor’s debut album, Title, made its way into homes and radio stations across the country.

Trainor set the standard for the upbeat and sickeningly positive anthems of the late 2010s; and now, more than seven years later, she’s brought back and redefined her signature style.

Takin’ It Back is a contemporary compilation of energetic songs, such as “Made You Look,” mixed with heartfelt ballads, such as “Superwoman.” It is abundantly clear that Trainor drew from her own life experiences in this new album, as it holds depth unheard in its predecessor, Title. Trainor truly explores a sense of maturity and thoughtfulness developed over the last seven years..

Nevertheless, there are still some gripes to be made. Where Takin’ It Back faltered is in the inconsistency of song quality. Tracks

one through eight are all fairly enjoyable, but the songs to follow missed the mark. What began as a strong doo-wop album became merely a cliché pop disaster. The lyricism turn basic, the composition was subpar, and the overall energy of the latter part of the album feels dull.

A high note on Trainor’s new album is “Bad For Me (feat. Teddy Swims).” The song is raw and authentic as it voices the struggles of familial ties and toxic relationships. Some of the most notable lyrics featured in this track include “Please don’t make promises that you can’t keep / Your best intentions end up hurting me” as well as “I know we’re blood, but this love is bad for me”. Trainor turns her personal experiences into sincere lines of loss and acceptance which can acutely resonate with many people. In addition to, Teddy Swims’ voice seamlessly blends with Trainor’s and greatly contributes to the final product.

On the other hand, a song that leaves me perplexed was “Mama Wanna Mambo (feat. Natti Natasha & Arturo Sandoval).” My first grievance with this track is simply that it feels out of place and adds nothing to the album. The mambo-style tune feels exceedingly predictable and the lyrics are nothing to write home about. The commendable maturity featured previously in the album is lost along with Trainor’s stunning vocal ability, which isn’t done justice with the material given.

“Superwoman” and “Rainbow” are quite the opposite in

ardous match factory.

Enola Holmes 2 is a great second installment of this series––everything a sequel should be. With the appearance of the famous Doctor John Watson (Himesh Patel) as Sherlock’s hopeful flatmate at the end of the movie (complete with a Bond-style Watson, John Watson), I cannot be more excited for this reimagining of Arthur Conan Doyle’s lore as the series continues.

that they serve a significant purpose on the album. Featured one after the other in the tracklist, they work as foils: two sides of the same coin, both with equally profound themes.

“Superwoman” is an intimate ballad sporting lines “I don’t really have any archenemies / My only villain is myself” along with “Call me Superwoman, but I know I’m not that strong.”

Trainor gives listeners a glimpse at her innermost insecurities and candidly translates them into thoughtful lyrics.

In juxtaposition to the previous song, “Rainbow” is an empowering anthem of self-love; echoing the message prevalent in Trainor’s debut album, Title.

With lyrics like “‘Cause you’re beautiful, you’re intelligent” and “Ain’t no one compared / So why you care / What anybody says about you?” Trainor is able to inspire and motivate fans with a testament she’s consistently held dear.

Trainor has had an ever-evolving career. She’s experimented with different styles of music in an effort to find her sound, and with the resurgence of her signature doo-wop melodies in Takin’ It Back, it seems as if she finally has.

With many notable moments in 45 minutes and 36 seconds, Trainor has translated an updated version of her most memorable album.

This time, with a new lens.

After the release of Enola Holmes in 2020, Netflix has already followed with a sequel by the name of Enola Holmes 2. The Sidekick staff writer Saniya Koppikar channels in to determine if the film holds a flame to its predecessor, or perhaps burns even brighter. Noor Fatima

Takin’ It Back released on Oct. 21 by American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor. The Sidekick staff photographer Kayla Nguyen expresses her thoughts on the album, discussing the influence of doo-wop and Trainor’s debut album Title. Kole Lokhande

Kayla Nguyen

Staff

Photographer

@ kaylagnguyen

Consumes crowd at Beabadoobee tour

Caroline Moxley Staff Writer @CHSCampusNews

DALLAS – Ignoring that the humid and cloudy atmosphere was melting off my excessive amount of makeup, my mind was overtaken by my anticipation to witness Beabadoobee live.

Beabadoobee first took off when her single “Coffee” was sampled on Canadian rapper Powfu’s single “death bed [coffee for your head].” Since, Beabadoobee has released two albums, five EPs and multiple singles. Her most recent album, Beatopia, is responsible for her recent rise in popularity. In addition, she’ll be

I was a victim of pushing and shoving by eager teenage girls, all wearing some variation of a Beabadoobee’s quirky style.

At 8 p.m., opener Lowertown entered onto the stage. I was doubtful, assuming I wouldn’t enjoy what they had in store; however, Lowertown had an insane stage presence that left both me and the crowd amazed.

It was difficult trying to comprehend reality when Beabadoobee appeared only a few feet away from me, considering she is one of my favorite artists. Her sweet and inviting energy was refreshing in contrast to Lowertown’s intimidating, yet intriguing, company.

Beabadoobee’s setlist consisted of six of 14 songs from her new album, Beatopia. Personally, it wasn’t a great balance between Beatopia songs and songs from previous albums. I think she should have done more songs from Beatopia,

since she performed 21 songs in total, and the tour is called the “Beatopia Tour.” However, I thoroughly enjoyed her picks for the remainder of the songs. She consumed the crowd when she performed the catchy hits such as “Talk” and “Care.”

Her stage presence as a whole was incredible and her live voice didn’t seem altered from her studio recorded songs; however, I wish she would have interacted with the audience more between the songs and given context for her pieces, as it would have expanded the experience and connection further.

Though I have a few minor critiques to Beabadoobee’s performance, I had a pleasurable time and it was the best concert I’ve attended thus far.

dayglow gets

Angelina Liu Executive Editor-in-Chief @angelinaliiu

DALLAS – Standing outside in the rain, I huddled underneath the black umbrella my friend was holding and awaited doors to open at South Side Ballroom. Although we had gotten there at around 6 p.m., (which is fairly late if you want a good spot in the pit), the rain had discouraged others to come to camp earlier. I felt the cold rain seeping into my red Converse and shivered as the breeze blew raindrops onto my face.

I had been looking forward to the Dayglow concert since prior to the COVID-19 lockdown and I couldn’t wait to hear some of my favorite tracks such as “Listerine” or “Fuzzy Brain” performed live.

At exactly 9 p.m., Dayglow began his performance with his electrifying hit “Radio.” The bright neon colored lights mixed with the high swells in the song made for a great atmosphere, with the crowd dancing within the first two minutes. He continued this energy throughout his entire set, greatly juxtaposing the gloomy, cold weather that existed outside. Dayglow played several songs from his Fuzzy Brain album, as well as Harmony House and People in Motion.

After playing a couple songs, he reminisced on his past and explained that he was born in

Aledo and had attended many shows at South Side Ballroom growing up. He introduced his band, most notably drummer Brady Knippa who had attended Coppell High School. Dayglow played two encore songs before ending the night at around 10:30 p.m.

At 8 p.m. sharp, Dayglow’s opener, Ritt Momney, began performing. He thanked the Dallas crowd several times, singing tracks such as “Set the Table” and his biggest hit, the remix of “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae.

“Dallas was great,” Momney said. “This was the biggest venue we’ve played on this tour so far, so that was really fun. The Dayglow crowd is always so receptive. So cool. So fun, so young.”

I thoroughly enjoyed his set, with a mixture of slower ballads and uptempo songs making for a perfectly balanced performance. He wrapped his set fairly quickly, ending around 8:45 p.m. After the show, he and his band took pictures with fans at the merchandise table.

The punctuality, energy and overall atmosphere made for a great show. For $25 a ticket, this was definitely an experience I do not regret.

people in motion people in motion

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Wrestling secures 5-0 win at Coppell Round-Up

Nguyen Staff Photographer @kaylagnguyen

Coppell boys wrestling coach Chip Lowery has his eyes set on two things this season: a successful team hungry for a spot at the state tournament and a community that doesn’t have to worry about being hungry during the holidays.

Coppell wrestling hosted its annual Coppell Round-Up tournament and food drive on Nov. 18 at the Coppell High School Field House. The Cowboys and Cowgirls went up against five different schools: Colleyville Heritage, Dallas Hillcrest, Frisco Centennial, Lewisville and Dallas Skyline.

The Cowboys placed first overall at 5-0, while the Cowgirls recorded nine first place wins.

“We had two kids go undefeated in the events, [senior] Isaiah Francis and [ju-

Wrestling is a good platform to give back and we try to always do that.

CHIP LOWERY BOYS WRESTLING COACH

nior] Elijah Houston --- Isaiah went 5-0 and Elijah went 4-0.” Lowery said.

In addition to being the first wrestling tournament of the season, the Round-Up doubles as a food drive benefiting the Coppell Pantry, which is run by Coppell High School Health Science teacher Bill Borowski.

“We collected two long-beds worth and a cart full of cans,” Borowski said

Attendees and supporters of Coppell wrestling were asked to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to earn admission to the event. This year, the Coppell Round-Up tournament collected much more than the year prior.

“All the teams that came - their fans, their parents and their wrestlers - supported [the Coppell Round-Up food drive]. We had a tremendous amount of

canned goods and food items,” Lowery said.

The Coppell wrestling program is constantly showing its support for the Coppell community and will continue to do so throughout the year. On Dec. 16-17 Coppell is hosting its 15th annual winter coat drive with the Santa Slam tour-

“Wrestling is a good platform to give back and we try to always do that,” Lowery said.

This year’s Coppell girls wrestling team is the largest in school history, with newcomers and experienced wrestlers alike.

“We’ve got 12 girls in the varsity line up, and a whole bunch of them are seniors, we’re looking forward to having a good year,” Coppell girls wrestling coach Ted Witulski said.

Being that it is the first meet of the wrestling season, the Coppell Round-Up serves as a way for new wrestlers to get a feel for the sport and learn valuable team-building skills. The team has been hard at work as it vies for a berth at the state tournament.

“We just need to keep getting stronger, and understand the sport, and be more aggressive,” Witulski said.

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Coppell junior Ava Payne and sophomore Piper Carrell practice on Thursday at the Coppell fieldhouse. The Cowboys placed first at the Coppell Round-Up with a score of 5-0. Sri Achanta

nament at Coppell High School.

Kayla

Coppell senior Jacob Abraham and junior Elijah Houston practice on Thursday at the Coppell High School Field house. The Cowboys placed first at the Coppell Round-Up with a score of 5-0. Nandini Paidesetty

Bhattacharyya bolsters cross country team

In June 2021, the Coppell High School cross country team faced uncertainty after former coach Nick Benton resigned. The team looked upon its upcoming fall season and realized its lack of leadership.

However, Coppell senior cross country runner Vedant Bhattacharyya stepped up and instituted a new workout plan and leader that the team could look up to as the team awaited its new coach.

Bhattacharyya began running cross country in seventh grade, but his love for running began in elementary school under the guidance of his older brother, 2021 CHS graduate Rith Bhattacharyya.

“[Rith] really showed me the sport, he was everything I wanted to be when I started because I wasn’t fast by any means. I was actually really slow and wouldn’t even place anything for a good few years,” Bhattacharyya said.

When Bhattacharyya reached Coppell Middle School North, his commitment to the sport grew and he began placing at meets. He placed third in his seventh grade year at district, and set two school records in the 1600m race in middle school track. As he transitioned into high school, Bhattacharyya entered a much more competitive program with more experienced runners.

“Freshman year, I had some really great seniors [to look up to],” Bhattacharyya said. “We were a really tight knit team back then too, and they were some of my closest friends. They showed me what it means to be dedicated not only to a sport, but to another person. Every time we ran, it felt like we were running for each other.”

Benton had instituted a system which consisted of three main workouts, all of which were intense and provided athletes with little recovery time. This was problematic due to the injuries the workouts caused and the overall stress it placed on the runner’s bodies, which caused the team to feel less confident heading into the season and led to a rough sophomore year for Bhattacharyya.

“In my sophomore year I wasn’t performing my best, I was running a lot slower than I did when I entered high school so it was tough,” Bhattacharyya said.

“But my coach taught me that tough times don’t last, but tough people do and that was a hard thing to take away, because I had never been challenged like that, mentally or physically.”

While his sophomore year posed many challenges to him as an individual, it provided Bhattacharyya with the necessary strength to lead the team in his junior and senior years.

“There was a void [after Benton resigned] because he was the center of our team at that point,” Bhattacharyya said. “Everyone was looking up to him for workouts and he had his own vision. I knew I had to fill that gap so instinctively.”

Bhattacharyya had already been planning his own workouts for years and finding routines that suited his individual running style. As he stepped up as a leader, he shared his workout plan with others and described the science and reasoning behind his approach.

His approach included much less rigorous workouts throughout the week, which provided runners with ample time to rest and recover, to prepare for harder workout days.

“We haven’t been as injured as we have in the past, and it’s kept us healthier and we continue to get better as the year goes on,” Coppell coach Landon Wren said.

Because of the easier workouts, as well as their variation, the runners are able to push themselves more on their harder days, similarly to how they would in a race.

“We left room for more types of workouts and our easier days are way easier so we can go harder on the harder days.” Coppell [grade] cross country runner Henry Henze said. “That definitely helped us so we’re actually prepared to run fast when we need to.”

As a result, the Coppell boys cross country team finished third in the Class 6A State Meet. Additionally, runners such as junior Dominic Piccolo have seen a tremendous improvement in their times, Piccolo has cut six minutes from his overall time.

Despite the success of the individualized workout plan itself, much of the team’s success this season lies with Bhattacharyya as a leader.

“As a leader, he’s going to be tough to replace,” Wren said. “The kids gravitate towards him and he sleeps and breathes cross country. He’s a runner for us but one of our assistant coaches as well. As a coaching staff, it’s great to have someone that is in the trenches with them, going through the workouts with them, that’s as knowledgeable as Bhattacharyya. I haven’t been around a cross country kid that has the knowledge that Bhattacharyya has and it’s incredible just to hear him talk about it.”

Signing onto their future

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Olivia Short Sports Visual Media Editor @Olivia_Short1

Sahith Mocharla Staff Writer @SahithMocharla

Coppell High School senior cross country runner Vedant Bhattacharyya has been in cross country since seventh grade. With the help of cross country coach Landon Wren who was hired in 2021, Battacharyya continued to train himself and his teammates which led to the team’s third place finish at the Class 6A State Meet. Shreya Ravi

Coppell High School senior cross country runner Vedant Bhattacharyya runs at the Class 6A State Meet. With the help of cross country coach Landon Wren who was hired in 2021, Battacharyya continued to train himself and his teammates which led to the team’s third place finish at the Class 6A State Meet. Photo courtesy Landon Wren

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