Issue 22

the

TOWER

Wednesday, Apr. 25, 2018 Volume 90 Issue 22 @thetowerpulse thetowerpulse.net

A weekly tradition since 1928

Grosse Pointe South High School 11 Grosse Pointe Blvd. Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236

Devastating accident causes community to join together in remembrance for Grosse Pointe family MAURA SHINE ’20 Page Editor

A

s spring break was coming to a close, a car crash in Colorado took the lives of a Grosse Pointe Park family of four, shaking the community and moving people of all ages across the Grosse Pointes to show their support, love and grief in many ways.

From students at Maire Elementary and Grosse Pointe North High School to businesses and close friends, the community has come together and done things individually to mourn the loss and help friends and family get through the tragedy.

The Toth family - Tom, 48, Christina Ann Daskas-Toth, 48, and their daughters, Sophia, 11, and Ella, 8, died around midnight April 7, when their Chrysler Pacifica van ran under a jackknifed semi on a slippery highway about 130 miles northeast of Denver. The family was returning home from a ski trip.

The Toths impacted numerous people including neighbors, friends and colleagues through their caring actions, humorous personalities and involvement in many activities throughout their lives.

Christina, an attorney, was involved in the Maire Elementary PTO and Tom, who worked for Chrysler, coached softball for his daughter, Ella. Ella also played basketball and was known for her humor and silliness.

We wanted to stress Sophia was a gymnast with that everyone express- many close es their grief in a differ- friends and ent way. ready to start middle school.

The crash SONJA FRANCHETT leaves the Maire principal community in mourning, especially students and families at Maire elementary, principal Sonja Franchett said.

Some students at Maire chose to show their grief and love of the girls by doing things such as dying their hair: red for Sophia, who had recently tried a red tone on her hair, and blue for Ella, her favorite color. Some Maire students also wore Michigan State shirts for the family who were avid fans.

Grosse Pointe little league softball had special decals printed for jerseys for every team, including

Tom and Ella’s softball team, the Bulldogs. The decals in the shape of a baseball diamond have the words, Play With A Smile In Celebration of The Toth Family, surrounding each side of the diamond.

Last week, students from Grosse Pointe North opened an ice cream bar for Maire students, served them, talked to them and cleaned up after them as Christina Toth was a graduate of North.

Other schools and local businesses have shown their support, sending food and offering kind words.

An endowment that will benefit Maire in the Toth family name has been established by family and friends.

Maire will likely remember the Toths with a memorial or other honors, but it first wanted to allow time for students, staff and families to grieve, Franchett said. The school district provided critical support to Franchett and the teachers at Maire so they could help students. During the week following Spring Break, PAYING RESPECT The Toth family poses for a family photo. The family recently passed away in a car accident social workers and psychologists over spring break. A memorial or way of remembering them will be scheduled. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOTH FAMILY were sent to the school and remained on standby inside thirdthe community, Franchett said. and Ella loved joining in the mix with our kids,” Jen and fifth-grade classrooms, the “We loved the girls. The parents were very in- Yeamans remembered. grades of Ella and Sophia.

Johnald Klepp, a classmate of Sophia, felt it was The teachers and counselors focused on activi- volved in the PTO so we definitely want to do someimportant to join with other kids-- girls and boys-ties that let students express their sadness, if need- thing to keep them in our hearts,” Franchett said.

What Nate Yeamans, a third-grader from Maire, and dye his hair red. ed, Franchett said. “We didn’t make one thing for “Sophia had dyed her hair red so it made me people to do or not to do,” Franchett said. “We misses most about his friend Ella is laughing with want to dye my hair to honor her,” Klepp said. wanted to stress that everyone expresses their grief her and making slime at Ella’s house.

“The last time Ella was over we danced and The loss felt by the kids and adults won’t likely go in a different way.”

In addition to activities such as making banners played games. I will never forget her big silly smile,” away anytime soon, but Jen Yeamans said there will always be memories of how blessed they and others and cards for the family, the school brought in blue Yeamans said.

Nate’s parents, Jen and Jeff Yeamans, have known were to know the Toths, their love of family, dogs and red yarn so the students could complete activithe Toths since they moved to Grosse Pointe Park and laughter. Those will carry on with those who ties in honor of the girls, Franchett said.

Maire is working with the extended families of 12 years ago. They often had impromptu barbecues knew them for the rest of their lives.

“Tom was the biggest kid of all,” she said. “We Tom and Christina Toth to decide on a memorial while watching football together and were almost could always count on Tom and Christina for a fun that will fully convey the impact the family had on like family.

“Immediately we became great friends. Sophia time. They were always up for anything.”

High school level summer school no longer offered due to declining attendance CLAIRE SHEEREN ’20 Copy Editor Summer school will no longer be offered this summer at the high school level due to declining enrollment, according to district superintendent Dr. Gary Niehaus.

The Grosse Pointe Public school board decided this about a month ago.

As an alternative, students can take summer classes through St. Clair Shores Adult and Community Education (SCSACE) at Kennedy Middle School in St. Clair Shores, Niehaus said. If enrollment is sufficient, SCSACE will offer Algebra I CP, Geometry CP and Algebra II CP at a satellite location, which will be Grosse Pointe North this summer. Chad Johnson from Lakeview School District will be running the program.

Niehaus hopes this system will prevent classes from being cut at the last minute similarly to the past few years.

“Over our last three summers, we have lost enrollment,” Niehaus said. “What happens to us is we get down to that last three or four days before summer school starts, we have to cancel classes that parents and students believe we are able to offer and in doing so, we mess some people up because we don’t have the opportunity for them to make up classes.”

Niehaus added he plans to try to keep district teachers employed for the summer if possible, even though SCSACE will be running summer school.

“We had some teachers that taught it and we wanted to keep them employed, but we also had a hard time hiring the teachers we needed,” Niehaus said. “We always

offer them to our teachers and districts first, and then we have to hire some from the outside. We try to keep our people employed in summer school classes, particularly the ones we offer at North.”

According to math co-department chair Alan Vassel, the change in summer school is unfortunate. Vassel does not know if he will teach summer school yet this summer.

“It’s a little disappointing on my end,” Vassel said. “I’ve taught it every year since I’ve been at South.”

Rachel Flower ’20 agreed with Vassel. Flower said she hoped to take a math class during summer school, but does not know if it is still a possibility.

“It’s kind of disappointing because I wanted colleges to see I had improvement in my math,” Flower said. “It’s upsetting because now I can’t exceed in what I wanted to do originally.”

Since summer is still a few months away, most parents have not have thought about summer school yet, Niehaus said. According to Niehaus, those who have thought about it realize why summer school was altered.

“We haven’t really heard much from anyone because no one is ready for summer school yet,” Niehaus said.

“The parents we’ve talked to understand what’s been done and appreciate the fact they (the parents) aren’t going to have their classes canceled at the last minute.”

Vassel added the summer school program was a great learning environment.

“I think it’s a nice, laid back atmosphere that I think helped some kids get grade improvement or receive credit for courses they didn’t have,” Vassel said. “I think they lose that.”

IMPORTANT DATES apr.

25

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat shows from the 25-29.

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Annual fashion show struts its way back to the gym JUST-US WELCH ’20 Staff Writer From high heels to high stile, The Mothers’ Club Spring Benefit Fashion Show and Luncheon “springs” back to South as it makes its annual appearance on April 26.

The event takes place from 12-3 p.m. following the half day for students not participating in the show. The Spring Benefit is Grosse Pointe South’s highest earning fundraiser of the year, which raises money for school preservation, scholarships and other supplies needed for a productive class, according to Mothers’ Club member Sara Hodges.

“We have over 100 students modeling,” Hodges said. “It’s really fun to see your peers if you’re a student or your kids if you’re a parent up there on the runway.”

The 45 dollar tickets include lunch, a tin can raffle, a wine pull and other auc-

The Mothers’ Club fashion show takes place from noon to3 p.m. in the main gym.

apr.

tions sponsored by items from businesses around Grosse Pointe.

“We have some really cool auction items such as four front row tickets to graduation, four second row tickets to graduation, a weekend at a cottage and a weekend on Mackinac Island with food and bikes,” Hodges said.

This year the theme of this benefit follows the play “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, Hodges said, and it will feature a special performance from the cast as well. “(The theme) is a form of expression of one’s personality and thoughts and just is another way for people to pursue their own wants,” Hodges said.

There will be a jazz performance from Emma Aboukasm ’14 and music from singer-songwriter Jack Hodges ’19, according to Hodges.

This fashion show gives an opportunity for local businesses to showcase

28

their clothing for the community, and for students to model the clothes, like Ally Vern ’20.

“I think it’s important to support local businesses because they’re people from our own community,” Vern said. “It helps our community grow.”

Nicola Troschinetz ’20 is excited to walk in the show this year because of her love for fashion and trying new styles.

“It’s a form of expression of one’s personality and thoughts and just is another way for people to pursue their own wants,” Troschinetz said.

This show will feature new visuals and other live singers which has never been done before, according to Hodges.

“All in all, it’s just a really good experience,” Hodges said. “It’s just a great way to raise money for the school and actually have a good time and see some of your peers.”

Boys varsity baseball faces Brighton High School at 7 p.m. at Comerica Park.

2 | OPINION

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

Improving the new district-wide BYOD plan When some students leave at the end of the school day, they don’t have access to a computer or WiFi at home in order to do their schoolwork. In order to combat this problem, the school district is implementing a new program called Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), which encourages parents to buy their child a laptop to use both at school and at home for educational purposes.

We at The Tower truly appreciate the school district’s efforts to ensure students are receiving the best education possible, however we call into question the underlying problems that don’t seem to be addressed through BYOD. While we understand the district is still refining the program, it does not appear to be an altogether suitable solution to the district’s technology problems after a 2012 technology bond did not pass.

According to school board trustee Christopher Profeta, BYOD will be rolled out over the next three years, beginning at the middle school level.

Profeta also explained that although a student-purchased laptop does not have to be used exclusively for school, the filters and firewalls attached to the school’s network will apply when students are connected to the WiFi. “Right now we do not have a consistent district-wide technology plan that adequately prepares kids for what they will see in a 21st century professional world,” Profeta said via email.

In essence, BYOD is meant to create that consistent district-wide technology plan to ensure students are furthering their education in a modern

Our View Editorial

way.

This plan defines smart phones as an unsuitable BYOD option, and states smart phones will not be permitted to connect to the GPPSS wireless network.

We believe this is one of the errors of the plan, as this means students who don’t have access to a laptop will struggle to participate in certain class activities. The exclusion of smart phones as an option also means students will have to carry a laptop with them at all times, adding weight to already heavy backpacks or bags.

In the BYOD handbook, the district said smart phones and tablets aren’t compatible with a secure testing environment. While the point is understandable, smart phones or other small electronic devices are items most students have.

Although phones may not be useful for testing purposes, they are something easily accessible and usable for many. If a teacher is doing a Kahoot or Quizlet Live review game in class, it’s much easier for students to simply use their smart phone than to waste time getting their laptops out.

The district does not have enough money in the budget to buy a device for each student, however according to Profeta, the plan is to have district-owned devices available for 20 percent of middle school students who may not have access to their own device. According to the handbook outlining BYOD, the district is committed to reducing tech-

nology inequity so every child has access to technology-supported learning.

We at The Tower anticipate a better developed and conclusive district technology plan, and again

extend gratitude to our school board for their attempts to ensure we receive the best possible education.

The pressures and stereotypes surrounding college commitment MY VIEW

RACHEL HARRIS ’18 Supervising Editor

NEWSPAPER

the

TOWER

STAFF

Walking down South’s halls, I can just feel the stress and tension around me building up. With less than a week until May 1, the official college commitment day for seniors, it’s almost impossible to make it an entire day without being asked what college I am attending next year, hearing others being asked what college they are going to or me asking others what college they will be at (sorry if I asked you 30 times already).

This time of year even the juniors are feeling the intensity, with spring testing, the pressure to have a higher test score, college fairs and the ever-looming question of, “Where do you want to go to college?”

As a senior who just recently decided where I will be attending school next year, let me tell you. It. Is. Going. To. Be. Alright. Regardless of what grade you are in or how fretful you feel regarding your future, everything is going to turn out okay.

Easy for me to say, right? I’m a fourth quarter senior, committed to college, enjoying the last month

of high school I have left. However, deciding what school to attend was extremely difficult. I always thought picking out what cereal to eat in the morning was tiresome, but I had no idea.

It’s easy to be caught up in the idea that if you don’t go to a top ranked college, you won’t be deemed as “successful” or “intelligent” by society. But this is far from the truth. The college you choose to attend does not define who you are as a person; it does not limit your possibilities.

I found myself influenced by the pressure of listening to the judgments and opinions of other people on whether or not a school was “good.” Google the school name, and if it has a high average ACT or SAT score, then everyone at that school is often automatically put into a box to rank their intelligence or success. I had practically decided on the school where I wanted to attend simply because its general rankings and prominence were strong. Although this is not necessarily a negative approach, there are other methods that can be taken to decide which college to attend.

I attended a Campus Day one weekend at one of the schools I was interested in. However, I did not feel comfortable. It’s unexplainable, but I simply felt like it wasn’t my place.

Editor-in-Chief Liz Bigham* ’18 John Francis* ’18 Online Editor-in-Chief Henry Ayrault* ’19 Grace Reyes* ’19 Associate Editor Alyssa Czech* ’19 Supervising Editor at Large Ray Hasanaj* ’18 Supervising Editors Katherine Bird*, Rachel Harris*, Riley Lynch*, Elena Rauch*, all ’18 Biana Pugliesi* ’19 Page Editors Chase Clark*, Kaitlin Nemeh*, JD Standish*, all ’18

I could not stop thinking about the weekend a month prior to this where I had been at my then “second place” school learning about their programs. The whole weekend there, I was excited and eager to learn more about the school.

I realized then which school was going to be a better fit for me, but I was still scared to commit. When asked where I was going to school, I told people I was deciding between these two schools. On hearing this, a lot of people were shocked I would even consider one over the other.

Hearing this was discouraging, as it led on to the stress of picking a school, even though I had a feeling for which one I wanted to go to.

In the end, I decided to pick the school where I knew it was the best school for me. As soon as I decided, it felt as though a weight had been lifted off my shoulders-- and yes, senioritis started to kick in.

The pressures of people and society seem silly now, as I couldn’t be more excited for the fall.

So as I walk through South in my final few weeks of high school, I advise seniors who haven’t chosen their school yet, as well as upcoming juniors and underclassmen, to avoid the urge of judging schools and their students on their average test scores or acceptance rates. I know it’s easier said than done, but don’t feel stressed or worried about colleges or being accepted to the highest ranked universities. It’s easy to listen to others’ opinions or society’s rankings on which school you should attend. Do a lot of research, and make a pro and con list of each school. Don’t dismiss schools you like because they aren’t deemed as the “best.”

College is so much more than the piece of paper you receive at the end of four, give or take, years. It’s a sum; the sum of all of your classes, extracurriculars, opportunities, free time, relationships with professors, the friends you make along the way and your enjoyment level. Pick where you are going to thrive and not just survive.

Adrian Doan* ’19 Anne Muawad*, Lauren Nemeh*, Maura Shine*, Aidan Walsh*, Elizabeth Wolfe*, all ’20 Copy Editors Ian Dewey*, Piper Eschenburg*, Phoebe Miriani*, all ’18 Sylvia Hodges* ’19, Elizabeth Flower*, Victoria Gardey*, Claire Sheeren*, Imran Siddiqui*, all ’20 Business Managers Evan Skaff* ’18 Web Editors Arianna Pagenette* ’18, Kaitlyn Perkins* ’18, Katherine Costello*, Claire Koeppen*, Jaqui Mercier*, Sarah Stevenson, Audrey Whitaker*, all ’19 Dominic Dulac* ’20 Multimedia/Social Media Editors Abigail Due* ’18, Erica Fossee* ’19

Field trips provide lessons which can’t be learned in a classroom

Tower Radio Alex Acker* ’18 Zachary Heimbuch* ’19 Staff Writers Margot Baer, Solana Bryson, Blair Cullen, Griffin Jones, Harper McClellan, Caitlin Miller, John Schulte, Cameron Smolen, Lauren Thom, Brennan Zihlman, all ’18 John Bellamy, Isabella Craparotta, Oliver MacDonald, Allison MacLeod, Olivia Mlynarek, Arif Ulku, all ’19 Madeleine Allen, Julia Ambrozy, Daniel Klepp, Evelyn Kuhnlein, Charlie Matthews, Kari Ronning, all ’20 Eva McCord ’21 Adviser Kaitlin Edgerton

MY VIEW

ELIZABETH WOLFE ’20 Page Editor

It’s seventh hour. The athletes in my math class have all been dismissed for another game, while the choir kids have to stay behind, missing their field trip. I for one, have only gone on one field trip in the two years I’ve attended South.

The school policy on field trips describes them as an, “educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools”, and that they should, “bring the resources of the community - natural, artistic, industrial, commercial, governmental, educational - within the student’s learning experience”. I agree with all these statements, but it seems that administration has ignored them to a certain degree.

One example I can give is when some students in South’s choir planned on taking a field trip to see North’s production of “The Wiz.” The trip was denied because administration wanted to protect instructional time for all teachers.

I can respect administration for prioritizing our education within school, but I think there are exceptions to this mentality. This choir trip, for example, would have allowed students studying music to experience it in an appropriate way, while supporting our sister school, and thus the Grosse Pointe community as a whole.

Another part of the school policy states field trips should, “afford students the opportunity to study real things and real processes in their actual environment.” Going to see this musical would’ve allowed students to admire hard work, dedication and talent-- things you can’t take notes on in a classroom.

Chris Rozanski, who earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater, is an actor working in New York City. It’s his belief that musicals not only give the audience a shared, connecting experience, but they also teach important life lessons through their stories.

Seeing theater live is a unique experience which speaks in a way that teaches the audience, and the students in the audience, they aren’t alone in what they are feeling or going through, something that isn’t taught in your average classroom. These aspects of the real world are ones of educational value, something that has a broader meaning than I believe administration realizes.

Education isn’t just geometry tests and history notes, chemistry labs and English essays-- education is going out into the world, making memories and growing as a person. That’s why Humanities went on a bike tour in Detroit, why Honors American Literature went and saw the Underground Railroad and why choir students wanted to see a musical. Education can’t just be confined to a classroom, especially when certain classes don’t entail such basic forms of learning. I believe for all classes there are times where their potential for impact on students can be best met when you step out of South’s halls.

I understand how important each class in a student’s schedule is. Success in academics is important now, as it will be in college and adulthood. With that said, sometimes opportunities in the real world, where education isn’t so strict in principle, trump the value of sitting in class for 49 minutes. Students should have more opportunities to take their education out of South and somewhere new, where they can see how what they’re learning affects the community around them.

GRAPHICS BY EVA MCCORD ’21

“The Tower” is the weekly publication of the Advanced Journalism classes at Grosse Pointe South High School. It has always been a designated public form of student expression.

The Tower is located in room 142 in Grosse Pointe South High School. Please contact us at 313-432-3649.

Errors Factual errors will be corrected on the opinion page or in news briefs written upon request and verification.

Letters Letters to the Editor are encouraged and will be screened for libel, irresponsibility Opinion Pieces and obscenity. The Editorial Board may edit Editorials represent the majority opinion of or shorten letters as long as the meaning is the Editorial Board and are left unsigned. unchanged. All letters must be signed and Columns represent the opinions of individual include a telephone number for confirmation. staff members and outside contributors.

Request to withhold the writer’s name from publication for good reason will be Editorial Board considered. Letters can be sent to the above An asterisk * denotes Editorial Board editors. email address, or dropped off in “The Tower” Room.

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THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

3 | NEWS

School Simplified: District to switch to new online learning tool in Fall pening within our district.”

Caralis believes students often find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous platforms used by teachers, and Schoology can eliminate this problem and simplify student’s lives.

“It has online testing, it has the gradebook built into it...” Caralis said. “When I use Moodle in my classroom, I have to teach the students every semester what it is and how it works. The nice thing about Schoology is that everybody will be using it.”

Caralis said Schoology is going to be beneficial for teachers at all levels because the program is easy to use for both students and teachers.

According to Stanley, the up-to-date platform will not only simplify student learning, but will also ease the jobs of teachers.

“For teachers, what’s great about it is the ability to post materials for students but also to get a quicker response time with feedback.

Let’s say a four minute assessment is happening, or maybe you did a quick exit slip in class before the bell; you can have a quicker response time for the teacher, which can help adjust structure for the next day,” Stanley said.

Schoology is not only a unifying program for teachers and students, but in addition, it offers more organization and convenience for both parties, according to Caralis. “(Schoology offers) the ability to do more intricate tests. Google Classroom has basic testing where you can do it through Google Forms, but not as specific and not with the same feedback. With this, you can sort it in folders or however you want it,” Caralis said.

“It also has an online ability for parents to log on, so your parents can jump on there and see your stuff or your siblings’ stuff. They can see all of it in one easy app, rather than having to switch back and forth from different Classrooms.”

Schoology provides students, parents and

LAUREN NEMEH & MADELINE ALLEN BOTH ’20 Page Editor & Staff Writer Beginning next school year, grades K-12 in the Grosse Pointe Public School System will be using the online platform Schoology for all of their online educational needs.

Chris Stanley, director of industrial technology for GPPSS, said Schoology will serve as the primary learning platform, replacing Pinnacle, Google Classroom, Moodle, Canvas and other educational tools used by teachers.

“Students will be going on there to receive their grades, but also they’ll have the ability to receive instructional materials from their teachers,” Stanley said.

Although high school students often resort to online resources more than students in lower grades, Schoology is fitting for all grades, according to teacher Kendra Caralis.

While Schoology offers an extensive learning advantage, Caralis added the online platform is also fitting for basic teaching styles, or those first introduced to using technology as an educational tool.

“It offers more features,” Caralis said. “I think high school teachers will like it a lot more, but it also fits really well with elementary school students or those who don’t want to do a ton with it; if they just want to do the gradebook, it’ll work really well with that too.”

Schoology has many advantages, one of the greatest being that learning is no longer limited to the classroom environment, Stanley said.

“I think more than anything for students, the best advantage is that learning doesn’t just need to happen within the confines of the classroom,” Stanley said. “You can access whatever materials your teacher might be posting outside of the classroom as well. So there’s different resources to be able to continue the great learning that’s already hap-

teachers within the district a simplified method of accessing information, according to librarian Courtney McGuire.

“I think we need to understand that it’s called a learning management system.

Within this portal you no longer have to log in to turnitin.com,” McGuire said. “It’s really a wonderful tool that has so much potential. We just need to make sure it’s deployed and ready to go in the end of August.”

According to Stanley, the user-friendliness of Schoology was a key factor when it came to selecting the most suitable online resource for students.

“We’ve been in contact with Troy Public Schools, which is one of our peer districts.

They’re on year three or four of Schoology, and have received excellent responses with it,” Stanley said, “I️ think students are really going to like the ease of use.”

While students may find the new adjustment complicated, Caralis believes with time students will enjoy the program.

“I think it’ll be pretty easy, come fall, when everybody is using it there’s gonna be a learning curve for teachers but I think students will adapt to it really easily. I think it’s a new way to check your grades, but ultimately I think it’s going to be easier for them between classes,” Caralis said. “You won’t have to learn a bunch of different learning systems. You just have Schoology and everybody is using it.”

Stanley stated positive changes are in the future for the Grosse Pointe Public School System regarding technology in the classroom and Schoology is the first step.

“Grosse Pointe is a great place to bring Schoology to,” Stanley said. “We’ve already got amazing teachers and amazing students, so I can’t wait to see how this will impact us.”

Good to the last drop, Coffeehouse comes to a close CAITLIN MILLER ’18 Staff Writer The class of 2018 has served their last cup by hosting their last Coffeehouse on Friday, April 13.

The coffeehouse raised a little over one thousand dollars which will go to the class of 2018, and 500 dollars that will help families in need in the community, according to student council member Muriel Steinke ’18.

“Coffeehouse turned out so well,” Steinke said.

“We were so excited to

have such a huge turnout at one of our final events.”

The class of 2018 student council thought there was an amazing turnout for the last event. To prepare for the event, members gathered pretty quickly and everyone pitched in to make it a great night for the audience and members in the council, according to Steinke.

Audience member Harry Susalla ’18 thinks this Coffeehouse was an enormous hit, and everyone enjoyed watching

their classmates show off their talents.

“I really like seeing all of the performers and

one really enjoys watching and being with their friends.”

The Coffeehouse had a new feature I really like seeing all of in order to the performers, and the raise money for vibe Coffeehouse gives Grosse Pointe families in need. off; I think everyone really The event had enjoys watching and be- an audience ing with their friends. choice award where the auLILY LATHON ’18 dience voted on their favorthe vibe Coffeehouse ite performers after the gives off,” student coun- acts were done. Through cil member Lily Lathon this the class raised 500 ’18 said. “ I think every- dollars. The class of 2018

DROP A BEAT Rockim Williamson ’18 shows off his singing skills during Coffeehouse.

student council highly recommends other classes continue the Coffeehouse as a way to raise money when they graduate.

“I’ve also worked really closely on Coffeehouse each time we’ve thrown it, and the whole process is so fun and so rewarding,” Steinke said.

“There’s so much talent at South that deserves to be showcased, and this is such a great platform for that.”

FUN FOR ALL Students, teachers and parents all enjoy each others company while at coffeehouse.

PHOTOS BY CAITLIN MILLER ’18

Guiding “Grosse Pointers” Home Since 1937

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Board introduces new plan for device policy

GRAPHIC BY EVA MCCORD ’21

AVA MITCHELL ’20 Staff Writer At their last meeting, the Grosse Pointe Public School Board discussed its proposal for a new personal electronic device policy. The new policy, called the “Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)” policy, allows students to bring their personal devices to school for educational enhancement.

Permitted devices include, but are not limited to, tablets, Chromebooks and laptops.

However, smartphones and eReaders are not included in the proposal. According to the draft, which can be found on the Grosse Pointe School System’s main website, the purpose of BYOD “is to help students practice responsible use of technology at school as well as learn about ways to use computing devices for productivity.”

“I believe the research that shows appropriate use of technology can improve classroom performance and college and career readiness,” Chris Profeta, Board trustee, said.

Some benefits of the plan would include a backpack without so many textbooks and will allow students to use technology more productively, similar to how it’s used in corporate America, according to board President Brian Summerfield.

“Really what’s driving this is that we’re seeing technology happen more and more in the classroom every single year,” Director of Instructional Technology for the district Chris Stanley said.

Stanley also said he believes the essence of the policy is a conversation exploring what a school would look like if students were encouraged to bring their own devices.

“Everyone learns differently… I think incorporating technology in a thoughtful and organized way across the district will help engage those students who learn best by actively doing something,” Profeta stated.

Hayden Barry ’21 thinks the policy, if passed, will encourage students who normally would not bring their electronics to

school to do so.

“My friends and I kind of feel awkward sometimes bringing them (personal devices) to school,” she said.

As noted before, not all electronic devices are permitted in the proposal. Stanley said the allowed devices must have a monitor and keyboard to qualify.

“Devices must have an 11inch screen or bigger,” Summerfield said.

However, with so much more technology available during class time, Barry thinks being off-task could be made easier.

“That’s always tough… I think that there are some classroom pieces that should be in place… but if a teacher has a cell phone policy, that policy should still be there,” Stanley said.

BYOD has not yet been passed, but the proposal states if it does, the plan should extend from grades six through twelve.

“We’re starting with the middle schools, and that’s where our discussion is right now,” Stanley said.

Additionally, not everyone may be able to afford their own devices, such as laptops or iPads.

Profeta and Stanley agree equity is an important part of the plan, and the school board will work to provide for every student if the proposal goes through.

“My overall concern with a BYOD program is the fairness to the student. I do not believe our current way of funding technology (primarily PTOs and the foundation) is fair to students because it creates a situation where some schools and classrooms have great technology and others have nothing. We need a district wide technology plan,” Profeta said.

Summerfield thinks the new policy will “provide greater resources that are available on the Internet now.”

“The presentation we got at our meeting was a good start,” Profeta said. “Now we have to work together to make it the best and most fair approach it can be.”

5 4 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

of the best soundtracks from this year MY VIEW HARPER McCLELLAN ’18 Staff Writer

1. BLACK PANTHER One of the highest grossing films must be accompanied by an amazing soundtrack.

The soundtrack is filled with big names such as Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Khalid, Schoolboy Q, Vince Staples, Travis Scott and SZA, but also has songs from rising musicians such as Jorja Smith, Zacari and Anderson .Paak. This album is a perfect blend between R&B, Pop, Rap and Dance.

2. CALL ME BY YOUR NAME “Call Me by Your Name” is set in the 80s in Italy and the soundtrack goes along perfectly to fit that. The album is a mix of some original music for the film, music collected from the 80s, classical piano and Italian music.

3. THE GREATEST SHOWMAN As a movie about performing, you would expect the soundtrack to be impressive, and it does not fall short of that. The impressive ballads are definitely what made this onto the top new soundtracks. Kesha’s chart topper “This is Me” appears on this album.

America’s favorite wildcat Troy Bolton aka Zac Efron makes a couple of appearances on this album accompanied by Zendaya and Hugh Jackman, his co-stars in the movie.

Compared to the other albums here, all music was originally made for this movie.

4. BABY DRIVER If you have seen this movie you know the music in this movie is everything! The whole plot is centered around “Baby” who is constantly listening to music. Out of all the movie soundtracks here, the music is most important in this one. Unlike all the other soundtracks, the music was collected for this movie. Nothing was recorded specifically for this movie except “Easy” by Sky Ferreira. The soundtrack ranges in genres and time periods, which I think makes it so unique.

5. FIFTY SHADES FREED Before you judge me on this, please listen to this soundtrack! “Fifty Shades Freed” is jam packed with a ton of artists including Dua Lipa, Jessie J, Hailee Steinfeld and Louis the Child. If you like high tempo pop music, you will definitely enjoy this album. My favorites on the soundtrack are definitely “Diddy Bop” by Jacob Banks and Louis the Child and “High” by Whethan and Dua.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IMDB.COM

“Princess of rap” steps it up with new album MY VIEW

JUST-US WELCH ’20 Staff Writer

Belcalis Almanzar, famously known as Cardi B, “bewitches” millions of fans with her ‘hoodrat’ charm as she pours her heart out on her debut album “Invasion of Privacy”, which details her story from stripper poles to sold out shows.

Cardi B has been making mixtapes for years, featuring lower produced gangsta rap songs, about her life in the hood with occasional appearances from local rappers, but “Invasion of Privacy” is an upgrade in all aspects.

The album is refreshing. Even though Cardi isn’t the most talented or practical rapper out now, she has created a versatile album along with the assistance of other well known artists such as Chance the Rapper, Kehlani, 21 Savage and Migos.

The intro song “Get Up 10” is a heavy song with very subtle melodies that highlight the intensity of her voice. She tells about how she

came to success all on her own, dealt with it is endearing because it sounds so real and friends who stabbed her in the back to only honest. smile in her face, to achieve her dream to proIn “Best Life” featuring Chance the Rapper, vide for her family and be the only one to make Cardi tells about how her life is going with her “six figures.” The recent fame and how she song progresses handles being under this to speed up with new type of scrutiny. In “I horns blaring and Like It”, Cardi showcases classic rap bass her Latin roots with the and snare that are Latin inspired track. reminiscent of Cardi finishes her alaward ceremony bum off with the female cheers, to conempowerment collab gratulate Cardi called “I Do” with fellow on her life. uprising star SZA, which The song “Be may be my favorite on Careful” is difthe album. ferent from CarAfter listening to the PHOTO COURTESY OF RAP-UP.COM di’s other singles. album, I must say it is It has a pleasant nicely done, with the exand simple, uplifting beat with contrasts from ception of some songs seeming like they took the aggression in Cardi’s voice as she describes less effort or fitting the generic shallow radio her past heartbreak and devastation from songs like “Drip” and “She Bad”. However, cheating. She advises men in her future to “be Cardi B doesn’t fail to win over her audienccareful” of her feelings. The chorus is light and es as pop music’s newest not-so-innocent rap frankly unexpected. Her voice is raw; you can princess. hear the off key notes and rough vibrato but

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A deeper look at the meaning of “Isle of Dogs” MY VIEW

lifelike, it’s clear why this film took three years to finAUDREY WHITAKER ’19 ish. This meticulous care Section Editor and attention to the littlest details heightened my appreciation for the film as a whole.

The humor and the message of the movie would go over many kids’ heads. Sometimes it’s simply the delivery of a line that elicited a chuckle from the audience, sometimes just the situation.

That’s the charm of a Wes Anderson filmthere’s something subtly funny at PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB.COM every turn. I can’t explain it, it just happens.

“Isle of Dogs” On the surface, this stop-motion animation from Academy also explores issues like corrupAward nominated director Wes tion, overpopulation, pollution Anderson is a cute story that fol- and animal testing. A major lows the journey of one young part of the movie is the group of student journalists who expose boy searching for his lost dog.

On another level, “Isle of the rigged election and mayor’s Dogs” tells the story of a cor- corruption. They are even given rupt, anti-science government a chance to express their “disand the dangerous effects of pol- senting opinion” to the mayor and people of Megasaki City. lution and animal testing.

Twenty years in the future in “Isle of Dogs” has an importJapan, an outbreak of dog diseas- ant message, especially in the es and overpopulation threatens political climate of the last few to cross the species’ threshold. years, that peaceful protest and By decree of mayor Kobayashi, a an honest media can lead to real corrupt politician ruled by cats, change. As a student journalist all dogs are removed to trash myself, I was empowered by seeisland where they fight for food ing student journalists head the pro-dog movement, as it showed and survival.

When the mayor’s ward the power young people have to crashes on the island in search of influence politics.

While I was fascinated by his lost dog Spots, a pack of dogs voiced by Wes Anderson and the scenes of Japan, I wondered regulars like Bill Murray, Til- if this representation of Japan da Swinton and Jeff Goldblum was at all accurate, or perhaps become his companions on the an exaggeration pushed a little long journey across trash island. past cute. Aside form the aesSo sure, sounds like a kid’s thetic, what was the purpose movie, but the theater was full of of the film being set in Japan? adults. “Isle of Dogs” is so much As someone who admittedly more than just a movie about knows little about Japanese culdogs. Each and every scene and ture, it seemed as though my character is beautifully crafted unfamiliarity was used to justidown to the last minute detail. fy the outlandish nature of the Sitting in the theater, I didn’t story. I also thought some of want to look away and miss any the English-speaking humans’ part of the intricate scene on roles were slightly contrived; screen, knowing it was impos- they were only there so English sible not to. Everything in the speakers watching the movie film was not only beautiful but could understand what was gohad something to contribute; a ing on, and sometimes that was connection to the story like the a little awkward.

“Isle of Dogs” definitely samurai posters on trash island that creates a sense of unity brought something different throughout the film, and even to the table compared to Anhumor, like the humans speak- derson’s other films, but his ining only their native language fluence is explicitly clear in the but dogs being translated to En- subtle humor, quirky story and attention to detail. In my opinglish.

The stop motion is vivid and ion, it’s the perfect film for peodefinitely brings more to the film ple of all ages with all different than live action or animation tastes- there’s really something ever could. The detail and care for everyone here. in the making and direction of the puppets is so detailed and

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

5 | FEATURE

JOSEPH

GO, GO, GO JOE! The cast of South’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” work hard to perfect their show.

ANNA CORNELL ’20 Staff Writer Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, performed by the Pointe Players, will open to the public April 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the Christian A. Fenton Performing Arts center at Grosse Pointe North.

The family-friendly musical is filled with music and singing. According to the cast, there are no scenes with spoken dialogue; the entire musical is sung.

“There’s no shift in scenes and all the songs just run into each other,” ensemble member Cate Christinidis ’20 said. “It (the musical) feels like it goes fast, but at the same time there’s a story you can understand through the singing.”

The challenge of not having any spoken words allows for the cast to learn new ways of expressing their character’s emotions through their facial expressions and choreography, according to director of musical arts Meaghan Dunham.

“There was no blocking, and the character work and the intention work with them was just on motivating lines in songs and lyrics, which is great work but it’s been very different for all of us, but different is good,” Dunham said.

Cast members Eion Meldrum ’18 and Cate Christinidis ’20 said everyone had roughly a month

to learn the 24 songs that make up the two-hourlong show of continuous theatricals.

“There are a lot of roles that are interchangeable that play a role, but also are in the ensemble, but total there’s maybe 15 to 20 girls in the As they go through, e n s e m b l e ,” we’re writing down Christinidis what’s happening said.

Rehearsal and making it happen runs from and practicing so it 3:30 to 8:30 becomes flawfless and p.m. about can happen without four or five any disturbances. times a week.

The DANI DULWORTH cast has been ’18 practicing choreography for three weeks, but the week before the show rehearsals go until 7 p.m as they make their final preparations. The week of performances, cast and crew members stay at North until 9 p.m., according to Billy Vogel ’21, who plays Simeon, one of Joseph’s brothers.

“When it’s tech week, we go through the show with all the lights and the set changes, so we are always on our book and script,” co-stage manager

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIA TURCO ’19

Dani Dulworth ’18 said. “As they go through, we’re writing down what’s happening and making it happen and practicing so it becomes flawless and can happen without any disturbances.”

According to Meldrum, not only do rehearsals last for several hours, but just like many other musicals some roles are double-casted, which provide breaks for the actors/actresses on stage.

“Tommy and I will go back and forth on learning songs so that will allow me to sit down and at least do some of We just started doing my homework the rehearshals with because we’re the actual costumes there until late at and it’s starting to look night,” Meldrum, perfect, like ready for who plays Joseph, along Broadway. with Tommy Thams ’19, said.

GABRIELA MONCIVAIS “At the same ’20 time, I do have to pay attention to what he’s doing because eventually I’ll have to catch up and learn what he did.”

According to Gabriela Moncivias ’20 (one of the four narrators), some of the biggest helpers who

never see the spotlight are the costume moms.

“They’re all so sweet and they’re amazing,” Moncivais said. “We just started doing rehearsals with the actual costumes and it’s starting to look perfect, like ready for Broadway.”

Not only were costumes made for the Pointe Players, but also for the 13 elementary students and middle school students in the musical, some of whom are related to other cast members, according to Dunham.

“It’s tough because they come in a little later and they’re younger so we try and get them out a little earlier,” Dunham said. “That has added a kind of beautiful nurturing aspect to the show because you’re looking out for the high school kids, and the high schoolers are looking out for the little ones.”

Dunham said most of the cast and production team are excited to see the fragments of rehearsals come together as a whole.

“The lights are going to be amazing,” Dunham said. “The set is beautiful, but quite simple so that the costumes and the lights and everything the color pops.”

Additional show times are Friday, April 27 and Saturday April 28, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday April 29 at 2 p.m.

Athletically inclined vs. the working grind EVELYN KUHNLEIN ’20 Staff Writer High school has a reputation of putting high amounts of stress and pressure on students to get the best grades and do the most extracurriculars. Add in playing a sport year round and students are likely to be left with little time to just enjoy high school. However, some student athletes, such as soccer player Jordan Zak ’18, feel dedicating copious amounts of time to a sport enhances their high school experience.

“Playing soccer probably has impacted my friendships in a positive way because it lets me meet people I never would have if I didn’t play, but it can also be a struggle just because of the fact I am not able to hangout sometimes because of my commitment,” Zak said.

Natalie Liening ’19, a Detroit Boat Club Rower, also goes through rigorous training for her sport.

“We practice six days a week.

I think I’ve learned to build

a lot of trust and respect for my teammates that put in the effort every day,” Liening said. “It can be very tiring to work out that much but we grow so much closer as a team and as friends.”

According to Zak, playing soccer has helped her with time management because she only has a small window of time each night to get homework and other responsibilities done.

“Although I receive pretty good grades, I think that if I didn’t play a sport I could definitely improve them because I would have more time to do homework or study,” Zak said.

Burnout, a physical or emotional exhaustion caused by long-term stress, often from sports, is a very prevalent issue in today’s high-stress society. The symptoms of burnout can be physical, mental or emotional, according to BBC News.

The team has a month off in the summer to take a break, according to Zak, but she has not skipped a practice or season to rest.

“If you’re doing it all the time and you don’t get breaks from the sport, burnout is definitely possible,” Liening said. “But I think if you care about the sport and appreciate your time spent doing it, burning out is less likely and you are happier spending your time on it.”

BLAIR CULLEN ’18 Staff Writer While some seniors take their last year to relax, Abigail Kafarski ’18 did the opposite.

During her senior year, she started working at Menchie’s, the self-serve ice cream shop located on Fisher.

“I wanted to get a job this year so I could be prepared for more responsibility in the upcoming years and get a different view on everything,” Kafarski said.

Kafarski said has never had a official job; she has nannied in the past but she hoped it would help her balance her schedule.

“My advice for others who are working would be to take advantage of the time that teachers give you to work in class on

homework and reviews,” Kafarski said.

Shifts are six hours, and duties entail keeping everything clean for close, dishes, sweeping and helping the customers, according to Kafarski.

Abigail’s sister, Alyssa Kafarski ’18, was happy to hear when her sister got a job.

“It is nice to see her challenge herself by balancing school and a job at the same time,” Alyssa said.

Since Alyssa tutors and babysits a few days after school and Abigail has a job, they see each other less on school nights.

“I see my sister a lot less now, because she usually works from 5 until 11 or 11:30 so I can only see her a few hours after school and that’s about it,” Alyssa said.

WORKING GIRLS Jordan Zak ’20 strives for greatness on the soccer field, while Abigail Kafarski ’18 works hard at her job at Menchie’s.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JORDAN ZAK ’20 AND BLAIR CULLEN ’18

6 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

PROMISING ARTISTS DISPLAY TALENTS

GREAT OPPORTUNITY Out of the 124 submissions, only 61 are included in the art show.

EVA MCCORD ’21 Staff Writer On Sunday, 24 students from South’s art department were recognized for their talent in the Grosse Pointe War Memorial’s Promising Artists Show, in which four schools- North, South, Liggett and Regina- were represented.

These students’ pieces are of the 61 showcased, each selected from an applicant pool of 124 works.

“There’s a sense of appreciation that comes with getting accepted,” Cassie Pinder ’19 said. “It’s a great feeling of encouragement and tells me that I should keep creating.”

For Pinder, art has always been a way to truly represent herself and express her emotions, especially coming from a relatively shy childhood. Pinder said she has always known the art community was where she could best be herself.

“Art has helped me come out of my shell without forcing me to use words,” Pinder said. “At this point, art is my everything.”

Fellow art student and exhibitioner Eliza Eaton ’20 views the exhibition as an opportunity for students to receive feedback on

their artwork, and is looking forward to submitting more exhibitions in the future.

“I didn’t actually know that I was accepted until after everyone else, but when I did, it was very exciting,” Eaton said. “To me, it’s a sign that my work and effort matters.”

Art has helped me come out of my shell without forcing me to use words. At this point, art is my everything.

CASSIE PINDER ’19

According to Eaton, she also considers the exhibition as a sign to take more risks in her artistic career.

“I was initially somewhat unhappy with the piece that was accepted, but after realizing how much others enjoyed my work, it really boosted my confidence,” Eaton said.

According to art teacher Kit Aro, student exhibitions are a

long, untapped advance in a student’s artistic journey, and hopes more student-centered events will arise in the future.

“Student exhibitions are important because students need to be involved in a community that acknowledges them and pushes them to improve,” Aro said. “The art community as a whole has become more competitive with time, and giving students a gateway to feedback and experience will ultimately better themselves as artists.”

Pinder hopes students interested in pursuing an art career will continue to make strides to reach their goals despite the opinions of their peers, and claims student exhibitions help young artists reach new communities of support.

“Some students don’t feel like art is a career that’s viable because of the comments of others, but having a show that tells young artists they can do what they love is so important for their confidence and motivation,” Pinder said.

The show runs from April 18 to May 6 at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is free to enter.

EXPRESSIVE ART Some student artists, such as Eliza Eaton ’20, see the exhibition as a chance to take more risks with their artwork.

PORTRAIT Above is an art piece made

by Cassie Pinder ’19 at the art exhibit.

ART EXHIBITION Artists from Regina, Liggett, Grosse Pointe North and South are included in the art show at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial. The show runs from April 18 through May 6.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EVA MCCORD ’21

Willkommen! German student selected to travel overseas a week, and I think we man school for a couple just stay with our host years. In middle school, I family in between stopped and then I startthose two.” ed again taking German South German at South in eighth grade.” teacher Lisa Richman Rogers believes heris proud that Rogers self to be mostly fluent in received the scholar- the language, and Richship. man agrees.

“In my 25-year ca“She’s very comfortreer, this is the third able reading and speaktime we’ve won it,” ing, and just really has Richman said. “So it’s lovely German; she pretty exciting.” works her tail off and Mary Hoffmann always has with a really ’18, one of Rogers’ positive attitude,” Richfriends, said she is also man said. proud of Rogers.

According to Rich“She deserved it man, this will be a very and I know that she unique experience for really wanted it, so I’m Rogers. really happy that she “One cool part is that got it,” Hoffmann said. you live with a German “She’s an outstanding family, you go to school, student.” you go on trips with the According to Rich- family and get to see how man, winning the a German family lives,” award is significant. Richman said. “But also GERMANY BOUND Kristina Rogers ’19 is one of 44 She believes one of the you get to do some travstudents in the nation to recieve the scholarship to reasons Rogers was eling and meet kids from Germany. chosen for the trip is all over the country who PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTINA ROGERS ’19 because of the way she are also German stuELIZABETH FLOWER ’20 bunch of mistakes… approaches learning dents, and then get to do but then I got it and the language.

Copy Editor some exploring. And it I was really happy “She’s always about it.” approached Kristina Rogers ’19 will Basically, when we’re According to Rogers, German as not be spending a month in there we have to spend she is one of 44 students just a school Germany this coming across the nation to have subject,” Richa week in one of their summer after being sebeen awarded this trip. It man said. “I schools, so we go to lected as a national winis a full scholarship that have a lot of ner for the 2018 Level 4 school with our host covers the round-trip kids who do National German Exam. family for a week, and flight from New York to that, and we Rogers, an AP Gerthen we go to Berlin for Germany, along with any try to focus in man student, scored other associated expens- class how this a week. above the is a language: 90th perKRISTINA ROGERS ’19 I was very nervous this is somecentile on during my interview, I thing you use, the exam, it’s something you speak costs you nothing except felt like I made a bunch w hich and write with. She’s re- getting yourself to JFK of mistakes...but then qualified ally embraced that and airport.” her to I got it and I was really I can see her keeping it Rogers will be preparapply for happy about it. as part of her life with ing for this trip in several the sumwhatever it is she decides different ways. mer study KRISTINA ROGERS ’19 to do. ” “I’m supposed to find s c h o l a rRogers said she was out who my host family ship. She es. exposed to the German is in a couple weeks, so then had to fill out the “We leave five days language even before she I’ll get to talk to them for application, submit an after school ends,” Rog- started taking the class. at least two weeks before essay and interview in ers said. “Basically when “My mom speaks I go,” Rogers said. “I still German via a telephone we’re there, we have to German, but not every- have German, so I’ll be call, according to Rogers. spend a week in one of one in my house speaks taking the AP German “I did not think that their schools. We go to German so we don’t test before I go. And then I was going to get it,” school with our host speak it at home,” Rog- just speaking (the lanRogers said. “I was very family for a week, and ers said. “But when I was guage) will get me ready nervous during my interthen we go to Berlin for younger, I went to Ger- to go.” view; I felt like I made a

Susalla seeks social justice; looking to make an impact

PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRY SUSALLA ’18

SPEAKING OUT Harry Susalla ‘18 using his voice at the March for Our Lives rally in Detroit on March 24, 2018.

portunities opened up to him, he recognizes it may be hard for others to achieve the same chances.

From small clubs in the school, to “Being a white male has allocated extensive organizations across the state, more resources to me that people of colHarry Susalla ’18 has a wide range of exor, specifically black and brown commuperience when it comes to activism in his nities, don’t have,” Susalla said. “They community. don’t have these resources due to federal Within Grosse Pointe, Susalla is the housing policies and our continuation of co-founder and co-facilitator of SEEDS, segregation in public education, which the president of the Gender Sexuality has given me more resources and opporAlliance, and a youth board member of tunities to grow as a leader and grow as a WeGP. In addition, he is in a social justice community organizer.” fellowship at the University of Michigan

Susalla is making a large impact and in the process of creating the Metro on his community with his high level of Detroit Youth Organizengagement and ing Coalition. hopes others will I think it’s specifically Susalla said he can do the same. trace his involvement important for students “I think it’s speback to his sophomore from Grosse Pointe cifically important year.

South to get involved in for students from “At that point, I was Grosse Pointe community organizing very comfortable with South to get inrelated to social justice. my sexuality and was volved in commuvery interested in meetHARRY SUSALLA ’18 nity organizing ing others like me, so related to social I started attending the justice,” Susalla meetings,” Susalla said. “I started doing said. “We have a long history of white real community organizing after I attendsupremacy and as someone growing up ed a dialogue program over the summer in Grosse Pointe, I know it creates a very at the University of Michigan.” negative socialization among us and conAccording to Susalla, he was recenttributes to internalized dominance and ly offered an opportunity to participate internalized submissiveness.” in the Strengthening Youth Leadership Susalla believes local, community orworkshop in Metro Detroit, allowing him ganizing around these issues is necessary to further his involvement. for people to speak up for what they be“We had guest speakers and multiple lieve in. breakout sessions to strengthen youth “Community organizing allows peoleadership in different areas of social jusple to decolonize their brain,” Susalla tice as well as focusing on project plansaid. “People understand their humanity ning,” Susalla said. “That was created better by not subscribing to the ways that through my fellowship with University we’ve been taught due to a patriarchal, of Michigan and we helped facilitate it white supremacist, capitalist and imperialong with my professors from there.” alist society.”

Although Susalla has had many opBROOKLYN NORTHCROSS ’20 Staff Writer

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

7 | FEATURE

CHANGES AROUND CAMPUS Administration, student reaction to the safety measures taken and walkout in past months KATHERINE BIRD ’18 Supervising Editor

I

n light of the shooting that took place in Parkland, Florida in February, Grosse Pointe South has added safety precautions to heighten the safety of the students at South.

“It was the last shooting that took place that caused us to really, seriously take a look at our vulnerabilities and trying to make sure that we close those vulnerabilities,” vice principal Cindy Parravano said.

Even though the intent by the administration was to increase our safety, it left many students unhappy due to the inconvenience of certain doors being locked during the school day.

“It’s a pain to have to go upstairs to go to a class I have downstairs or have to walk all the way around when I could have used one door to get there in a third of the time,” Anthony DerManulian ’18 said. “I understand what they’re trying to do, but at the same time, it’s inconvenient.”

The Parkland shooting was a tragedy, but there have been many shootings before this time which left people questioning why the new precautions weren’t taken sooner.

“To be honest, they (safety precautions) are about 19 years overdue,” physics teacher, Matt McGuire, said.

“I thought they would have been put in place after the Columbine shooting in 1999. I think it’s a shame it’s still going on 20 years later.”

Public Safety and School Liaison Officer Traci Reitzloff believes the new safety precautions being taken is a positive thing for the school.

“I think it’s a great start,” Reitzloff said. “I know some of the students aren’t very happy about it. I think if they’re actually enforcing that it’s a great idea.”

Parravano agreed with Reitzloff about the follow through of these rules.

“We are only as safe as we follow those policies,” Parravano said. “So if

we still have students who are opening up doors for people who are trying to come in, we are not safe.”

According to Parravano, the makeup of South’s building would be a disadvantage if there was an intruder.

“The external doors of the school are made of wood and have large glass panes which makes us vulnerable,” Parravano said.

McGuire thinks regardless of building composition, no one school is safely prepared against a threat from a gunman.

“I don't know if anybody is prepared for that sort of threat,” McGuire said. “I don't know if I’m even properly prepared to handle that kind of threat.”

Further steps Parravano is interested in taking to secure the school is alarming the external doors, replacing the internal doors, creating a secure entrance and developing a new PA system.

According to Parravano, the new PA system she’d like to install would allow anyone to relay a message over the speakers from any room. This would be beneficial in the event the main communication system was taken out.

“I think it’s so far a safe campus,” Reitzloff said. “There’s always more steps that can be taken but we won’t know those until they address them.”

The school could always become more safe but at the expense of the student’s freedom and convenience, McGuire added. The safest thing students can do is be aware of their surroundings and what is going on.

“We can’t live our lives in fear but we just need to stay vigilant as to what’s going on around us in our surroundings. I know students aren’t happy with the doors being locked and coming in and out of one door but ultimately the administration is responsible for student’s safety.” Parravano said. “I would just ask students to please follow along with that policy and keep us all safe and not open doors.”

WALKING OUT Students partake in a walkout that was coordinated between administration and students. The PHOTOS BY GRIFFIN JONES ’18 walkout was also monitored by the Grosse Pointe Farms Police Dept.

“It’s a pain to have to go upstairs to go to a class I have downstairs or have to walk all the way around when I could have used one door to get there in a third of the time.”

ANTHONY DERMANULIAN ’18

I think that it’s so far a safe campus, There’s always more steps that can be taken but we won’t know those until they (administration) address them.”

TRACI REITZLOFF School Safety Liaison

“To be honest, they (safety precautions) are about 19 years overdue, I thought they would have been put in place after the Columbine shooting in 1999.”

ON WATCH Assistant Principal Cindy Parravano looks on as South students participate in a walkout to remember the lives lost in Parkland, Fla.

MATT MCGUIRE Science Teacher

“I know that students aren’t happy with the doors being locked and coming in and out of one door but ultimately the administration is responsible for students’ safety.

I would just ask students to please follow along with that policy.”

CINDY PARRAVANO Assistant Principal

POSSIBLE CHANGES TO COME:

Further steps Parravano is interested in taking to secure the school is alarming the external doors, replacing the internal doors, creating a secure entrance and developing a new PA system. According to Parravano, the new PA system she’d like to install would allow anyone to relay a message over the speakers from any room. This would be beneficial in the event the main communication system was taken out.

Overcoming limitations, South’s accesibilty offers handicapped students a normal day ABIGAIL WILSON ’20 Staff Writer South is an old building, but there are elevators regularly in use as an accommodation for handicapped students.

Should a student not be able to go down stairs or need extra time to get to class, they shouldn’t worry, according to students who have been temporarily handicapped.

They said the school tries its hardest to be able assist wherever they can.

“South is a registered historical building and as such it can pose difficulties for students o n

crutches or in a wheelchair,” vice princi- break.”

“The worst thing was when people pal, Cynthia Parravano, said.

Despite their initial responses about would use the handicap stall when every Because of its status as a historical the elevators, both Dodge and Buisch other one was open in the bathroom,” school, South doesn’t have to adhere to had positive experiences due to her Dodge said. the American Disabilities Act regula- teacher’s understanding, and their leniShe could only fit her scooter into the tions, according to Parravano. ency towards their situations. larger handicapped stall so she had to “There are 3 elevators-- one in each “All of my teachers offered for me to hope others wouldn’t use it. building for students who are unable to leave early,” Buisch said. “Some of them “I didn’t have a problem getting anynavigate the stairs,” even offered for me to where when I was on crutches but if I Parravano said. “Stutake a friend with me was on them now I wouldn't be able to dents with physical to carry my books.” get to my tutorial,” Buisch said. limitations can use Teachers in the Buisch has a class on the third floor I also had to do a fire these without restricdrill while on crutches, school should allow of the main building, which doesn’t have tion.” and had to use the students with im- elevator access.

According to Jessipaired mobility to “I also had to do a fire drill while on elevator to get down leave a few minutes crutches,” Buisch said, “I had to use the ca Dodge ’19 who had and out. to use a rolling knee early, according to elevator to get down and out.” scooter for two weeks, Parravano.

Although she was slower she was JORDAN BUISCH ’20 the special treatment “I didn’t take them able to successfully leave the building is really just trying to up on their offer, but through use of the elevator, which may make up for abilities that others take for all of my teachers said I could leave five not be operational in the case of an granted. minutes early,” Dodge said. “It was really emergency, Buish said.

“I really relied on the elevators,” considerate of them.”

“I was worried about what would Dodge said. “I couldn’t get downstairs The only problem Dodge remembers happen if someone got into the building without it.” as a particular struggle was other stu- that I couldn’t leave,” Dodge said.

Elevators are the only way for students dent’s consideration Both Dodge and to travel up and down levels, so they are of her injury.

Buisch had to rely on essential according to Parravano.

“You’d expect peoI tried to avoid using the school for a lot of Dodge also remarked that the eleva- ple to move out of the the elevator in the main their movement and tors were daunting and not always way when they see school life. building. It was really in the best repair. someone on crutches “I think the addingy and I didn’t feel ministration was re“I tried to avoid using the el- or on a scooter, but evator in the main building,” that wasn’t the case,” ally helpful,” Buisch safe.

Dodge said. “It was really dingy, Dodge said. said. “Everyone was JESSICA DODGE ’19 and I didn’t feel safe.”

People would tend trying to help me out.”

Jordan Buisch ’20 said she to ignore her situation The needs of the was not eager to use the eleva- and continue to bump handicapped should tors either. into her in the halls, according to Dodge. be considered more but the school’s “I was reBuisch said she avoided most crowd- administrative team did their best to ally scared ing due to her ability to get out earlier make the school accessible, according to to use the than her peers.

Dodge. elevator in “I didn’t really experience any strug“It would’ve been impossible to have a the S build- gles with other students because I left normal school day if not for (the admining,” Buisch class early every day,” Buisch said. istration’s) help,” Dodge said. said. “It was According to Dodge, she struggled dark and with the bathroom accessibility while she made noises like it was going to was temporarily handicapped as well.

8 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 4.25.18

I know that Lauren has worked so hard over her past four years to be a good leader, good captain and good player.

HANNAH MILLER ’18

and that they got it right,” Weidenbach said.

Co-captain Hannah Miller ’18 said she believed Kramer deserved to win this award because of her work ethic and because this is her second year being nominated.

“I know that Lauren has

R’ KR AM E EN AU R

worked so hard over her past four years to be a good leader, good captain and good player,” Miller said. “This year, she worked extra hard because last year she was nominated but didn’t get it, so when she finally won I think it was really nice for her to be able to put all that effort in to win.”

Miller said she credits Kramer as being one of the main reasons the team won the state championship.

“Her contribution to the team has made such a big difference in the bonding on and off the ice,” Miller said.

Kramer has been on the team for four years, two of which she was a captain, and her freshman and senior year won a state championship. She encourages her underclassmen teammates to continue working hard on and off the ice.

“Even at practices when you don’t want to be there and you have a bad attitude, just always keep a positive energy,” Kramer said. “Even if you’re on the bench and you don’t step on the ice during the game, always be positive because it’ll always help your team.”

TE SY OF L

After leading her team to a state championship title, girls hockey captain Lauren Kramer ’18 received the Miss Hockey award at the all-state banquet on March 25. This award is presented each season to the top player in the Michigan Girls High School Hockey League, voted on by other coaches in the league.

Kramer said the coaches consider not only the best hockey player, but also someone who is a strong leader. “(The coaches) choose someone who demonstrates leadership, good skill, you’re a good player, a good person on and off the ice and you’re good in the classroom,” Kramer said.

Coach John Weidenbach said Kramer contributed leadership to the team, as well as goals throughout the season.

“She was only held off the score sheet twice in all 27 games, she had 25 goals and 25 assists so it was evenly distributed throughout the season,” Weidenbach said. “So I

expected her to win because after the season when I assess all the other teams that we played, I felt that she was always the best player on the ice.”

Weidenbach nominated Kramer for the award but was not able to vote for her because of how the voting system works. He said he was extremely happy upon hearing that she received the award.

“I was proud of her and glad to hear that (the other coaches) felt the same way

IN THE DUST Lauren Kramer ’18 skates away with the puck leaving the North player behind.

PH OT OS CO UR

LAUREN THOM ’18 Staff Writer

18

ATHLETE AWARDED MICHIGAN’S MISS HOCKEY

MISS HOCKEY Lauren Kramer ’18 was awarded Miss. Hockey at an all-state banquet.

TEAM CELEBRATION Lauren Kramer ’18 and her teammates stand in a huddle celebrating their goal.

South’s varsity baseball team prepares for their upcoming game at Comerica Park against Brighton BELLA CRAPAROTTA ’19 Staff Writer

CURVE BALL Chris Cassidy ’17 stands at the pitchers mound contemplating which pitch to throw. The boys beat North last year when they played at Comerica Park.

APPROACHING FIRST Giovanni Lutfy ’18 runs to first base from home plate.

AT BAT Jack Doerer ’17steps up to the plate to swing at a pitch.

PHOTOS BY ARIANNA PAGENETTE ’18

RUNNING HOME Jacob Hinkle ’18 strides to home plate in an attempt to score a run for South.

South’s baseball team tradition is to play at Comerica Park every two years, however, with the recent change in 2015, the boys have played at the stadium every year.

Last year, South beat North at Comerica Park and this year they will play against Brighton. Head coach Dan Griesbaum, assistant coach Dan Griesbaum Jr., coach Matt Reno and captains Joey Naporano ’18, Davis Graham ’18, Cam Shook ’18 and Nate Budziak ’18 hope for a win, according to Naporano.

“We’re playing Brighton, they’re ranked in the state and they have a pitcher that’s supposedly going to get drafted so they’re obviously a good team and it’s a big game for us,” Naporano said.

The season began in March with practices, conditioning, and scrimmages and the boys have a current record of 9-0, according to Will Leonard ’19.

“I think North’s a little scared because we beat them this year and they don’t want to play us at Comerica and embarrass t he ms elve s again,” Naporano said.

Leonard said he went to the game against North his freshman year. “ I thought it was awe-

some to watch the team at Comerica Park,” Leonard said.

Leonard enjoyed watching the game from the stands and said he thinks it’s a great opportunity for the players to experience playing at Comerica Park.

“I think it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to get to play at Comerica Park so it’ll be fun,” player Alec Applegate ’19 said.

Leonard said the team always wants the greatest turnout of students to come especially because Brighton is a good team so the more students the more support for the team.

“Every student, family, friend-- every single person from South should go,” Naporano said.

According to Applegate, the pride for South in the student section is very supportive.

“There is usually a good turnout with the students and parents that come to watch,” Applegate said. “We have to sell a certain amount of tickets every year and we usually go above it so we’re hoping it will be the same this year.”

Applegate said he thinks the team is good enough to get far into the playoffs and have a chance at states.

“My hopes for the game is that we’re going to win like we always do, we haven’t dropped a game yet and personally I think that we are the best team in the state,” Naporano said. “I would say it’s the biggest game that any of us have ever played in and so it’s a big game for us.”