December Issue 2012 by The Warrior Online

Warrior Sherwood High School 300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860

35th Year, Issue No.2

the

December 13, 2012

Inside: News: 1-4, Lifestyle: 5-6, Features: 7-9, Humor: 10-11, Spotlight: 12-13, Opinions: 14-16, Wondering Warrior: 17, Entertainment: 18-20, Sports: 21-24

The End is Near

Revamping MCPS: Tailoring Education to the Students

The Warrior asks how students plan on spending the final days before the impending apocolypse.

The Warrior analyzes where our education system is headed by examining Curriculum 2.0, online learning and other innovations in education. pgs. 12-13

pg. 17

Petition Calls for Later Start Times As parents collect signatures, teachers weigh in on whether MCPS should start high schools later in order to give students more time to sleep.

by Connor Martin ‘13 High school students today face crazy schedules filled with school, homework, extracurriculars, sports and family obligations. With such busy schedules, time for sleep is often the part of the day that gets cut short. However, parents in Montgomery County are currently working on a petition that asks for later start times to the school day so that teenagers can get the extra sleep they need. But is the push for later start times necessarily a smart move? “There are a lot of benefits to [having later start times],” noted psychology teacher Christine McKeldin. “Since about the 1930s, students are getting on average about one hour less sleep than they did back then, and there are a whole bunch of things that seem to correlate with this ‘lost hour.’” The “Lost Hour” refers to a chapter in

the book “Nurture Shock” by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman. The book explains the psychology and reasoning between different phenomena in the behaviors of children and adolescents, including why teenagers have difficulty going to bed on time and getting enough sleep to prepare them for the day. According to the book, other school systems have tried starting schools later with great success in terms of academic achievement. Bronson and Merryman explain that the overall improvement in academics in these school systems is because the schools accommodate teenagers’ biological clocks. The book explains that the biological clock in teenagers “does a ‘phase shift’ that keeps adolescents up later. In prepubescents and grownups, when it gets dark outside, the brain produces melatonin, which makes them sleepy. But adolescent brains don’t release melatonin

for another 90 minutes.” Then, the brain continues to produce melatonin after teens have woken up for the next school day. “It’s obvious why people are sleeping in first period,” McKeldin added. The petition parents are starting online at signon.org aims to change the time when high schools start in the morning so that behaviors like sleeping in class will happen less often. The petition requests for Montgomery County high schools to start the day no earlier than 8:15 a.m., so that teenagers can get an extra hour of sleep every night. If the school day starts later, then, according to the petition website, there will be a decrease in absences, tardiness, sleeping in class, traffic accidents and visits to the nurse as well as an improvement in overall academic performance. That said, problems could arise from starting high schools later. If high schools start at 8:15 a.m., students who ride buses

would be going to school slightly later than middle school students and earlier than elementary school students. Currently, buses transport high school students then go back for middle school students and again for the elementary school students. If high school students went to school at the same time as the younger ones, the county would need to have more buses and more bus drivers, which would cost a substantial amount of money. Alternatively, if middle or elementary schools switch start time with high schools, the younger kids would be waiting for buses in the dark. “I’d love to start my day later, but I think it’s impractical,” stated science teacher Glenn Miller. He explains that starting the day later does not solve any of the problems that teenagers face with the regular start times because everything

see TIMES, pg. 4

Making the Grade Community Mourns Death of 2012 Graduate School looks to balance students’ success with fairness. by Robel Wondimu ‘13 For the fourth year in a row, MCPS graduated 87.6 percent of its students, which is the highest rate among large school districts in the country. Last year, of Sherwood’s graduating class of 475, only four flunked out while seven dropped out, for a graduation rate above 97 percent. As impressive as that figure is, Principal Bill Gregory wants to reach MCPS’ goal of 100-percent graduation rate. “[2012] was a low year,” said Gregory. “Some of these kids may not graduate in June, but they will graduate in August, or they’ll graduate the following year, but most of our kids graduate.” As part of the effort that nearly all students at the school eventually graduate, teachers focus on high-risk students who are in danger of failing. A last-ditch action that teachers may take is “bumping” a grade at the end of the marking period. There is no school policy on bumping and it is left to the discretion of teachers. The lack of a firm policy has raised questions about the objectivity of grading and created tension, particularly in instances when a teacher has felt pressured to pass a student who has a failing grade or a large number of unexcused absences. “I do not feel it is equitable to all students if a student is allowed to not put in the requisite effort over the course of an entire marking period just to have exceptions or concessions made at the end of the

see GRADE, pg. 3

by Steffi Carrera ‘14 and Katie Mercogliano ‘14 On November 17, Sherwood graduate Olijawon Griffin was fatally stabbed at Woodley Park Metro Station. What started out as a robbery ended in the death of a beloved member of the community. Loved ones gathered on November 19 to honor Griffin’s memory with a candle light vigil. Friends, teammates, coaches, teachers and family members were in tears as they collected at the field adjacent to Montgomery General Hospital. Everybody circled around Griffin’s mother and listened to Rev. Barry Moultrie, the youth pastor at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Rockville, preach about the importance of not lashing out violently for revenge. The inspirational sermon was a lesson to the young generation about the violence that happens everywhere, and concluded with his powerful message, “This silent majority has to end—you guys have to stand up for what’s right.” The funeral service took place on November 24 at the Refuge Church. According to The Washington Post, Griffin was robbed of several items on the night of his death, including a name-brand jacket that he had purchased with his own salary, by armed teenagers. Shortly after these items had been stolen from him, Griffin headed to Woodley Park Metro Station with his two friends to go home. Upon arriving at the station, he encountered the same group who had robbed

Olijawon Griffin him. Police say there were around 12 people on the platform, including one wearing Griffin’s jacket. Griffin realized this and approached the teens to get his jacket back, which led to an attack on one of Griffin’s friends. One police officer testified to a surveillance camera showing the boys swarm the friend and kick him repeatedly. Initially, Griffin and the other friend ran to the station manager’s kiosk, but Griffin decided to go back and help his friend that was being beaten. While engaged in a fight with one of the teens, Griffin was stabbed in the chest by Chavez Tyrek Myers, who surprised him from behind. Myers, 17, is being charged as an adult for murder, and four of his companions also face armed robbery charges as adults. The search for three others continues as they can be seen

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in the footage yet have not been identified. Griffin was an active student, participating in Rock ‘N’ Roll Revival and playing on the football team for all four of his years at Sherwood. Coach Mike Bonavia commented on the loss, “I only had this one year with him as a senior. I thought from the time that I came from the time that we finished, [I] saw a young man mature—as a person and a football player.” Griffin was admired and known for his dedication to the football team. Bonavia concluded his statement by saying he knew “[Griffin] was a passionate football player who wanted to make a difference on the field.” Former teammate Patrick Karngbaye (‘12) described him as “a passionate, faithful and hardworking young man who always strived to do his best.”

The Warrior•News

December 13, 2012

Security Improvements Increase Safety

by Bridget Cook ‘14 MCPS has never been con sidered a dangerous school sys tem. Staff and students do not come to school each day feeling tense, concerned or at risk. Coun ty schools, like Sherwood, are calm, safe environments where students can learn without fear of significant emergencies. The county upholds a conJanuary stant standard of excellence in Cruise Ship Capsizes near Italy safety that people generally take The Costa Concordia, a cruise liner, runs into a coral reef near the for granted, unaware of how Italian island Giglio, killing 30. The ship’s captain, Francesco Schettino, is much is actually going on behind

2 1 20

in review

charged with manslaughter for taking the ship off its intended course.

February

Pop Superstar Whitney Houston Dies Whitney Houston, 48, is found dead the night before the Grammy awards. The singer’s fame peaked from the mid 1980s to 1990s.

March Beginning of ‘Kony 2012’

A campaign is launched by Invisble Children, a non-profit which works to help children in Africa, to find Joesph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army operating in Uganda. The campaign spread via social media sites, targeting youth to get involved in a major world conflict on a mass scale.

April

Uncertain Cease-Fire Begins in Syria

(Apr. 12): A United Nations (UN) backed cease-fire begins in Syria. (Apr. 13): Thousands of Syrians protest across the country. The demonstrations are seen as a test of the day-old cease-fire. (Apr. 18): While UN representatives attempt to reach an agreement with Syria on how to monitor the cease-fire, government forces attack the city of Homs. (Apr. 19): The UN notes that Syria has not implemented the cease-fire, and the war continues.

May

White Births No Longer Hold Majority in the U.S.

The Census Bureau releases data showing that for the first time, white births no longer compose the majority of births in the United States. Asians, blacks, Hispanics and mixed races make up 50.4 percent of all U.S. births.

June

Supreme Court Upholds Obama's Health Care Law

The Supreme Court rules that the requirement in President Obama’s health care law for nearly all Americans to secure insurance by 2014 or be fined is constitutional.

July

12 Killed in Aurora, Colorado Theater Shooting

During a late-night screening of “The Dark Knight Rises,” James Holmes, 24, opens fire on the audience. Twelve people were killed and 38 others were wounded. Holmes is arrested and charged with 142 felony

August

Michael Phelps Wins 22nd Olympic Medal; 18th Gold

Michael Phelps holds the record for being the most decorated Olympian ever, having received 22 medals, 18 of which are gold. Phelps also wins the most Olympic medals in the same event (200 meter Individual Medley) during the summer Olympics in London.

September YouTube Film Sparks Protests and U.S. Deaths

Protests all over the Middle East break out in response to a controversial YouTube video made in California. The movie was interpreted as an insult towards Islam. U.S. Libyan Ambassador Chris Stevens loses his life in a planned terrorist attack around the same time.

October

Hurricane Sandy Strikes

Hurricane Sandy, a category four hurricane at its peak, starts in the Caribbean and then hits the Eastern U.S. The storm causes an estimated 60 billion dollars in damages, making it one of the costliest storms in U.S. history.

November Petraeus Resigns from Post as CIA Director

David Petraeus, a retired four-star general, resigns from his post as director of the CIA, after admitting to an extra-marital affair with his biographer, Paula Broadwell. Petraeus had the job since September 2011.

December

Country Veers Closer to the Fiscal Cliff The “fiscal cliff” is the term for the projected series of tax increases

and automatic spending cuts that will take effect with the start of next year unless compromise negotiations succeed. While the plan will reduce the size of federal deficit, most experts and politicians worry that it will send the country back into a recession.

- compiled by Diana McDermott ‘13

the scenes. Currently, MCPS is in a six-year improvement plan for security, striving to make schools even safer through new technology and highly trained staff. The goal of the improvement plan, which began in 2009, is to bring new security measures to all

county schools. “In the six-year Capital Improvement Program for security initiatives, we replaced the camera systems in high schools, added camera systems in all middle schools, are installing visitor management systems in all schools and installing electronic access control in all elementary schools,” said Robert Hellmuth, MCPS director of security. These advanced measures allow staff to quickly determine a student’s location, control who enters the building, and cross-reference all visitors with local and state sex offender registries. Like the technology, school security staff is always evolving. The entire county security staff undergoes training sessions at least twice a year. “[These sessions] involve various topics of concern ... [such as] crisis inter-

vention training, shelter in place training, and emergency procedures,” said Patrick Rooney, security team leader at Sherwood. Several members of the Sherwood security staff have served in the county as police officers and have many years of experience in other MCPS schools, making them excellent assets to the school community. “Our staffing here [at Sherwood] comes from a variety of backgrounds which are well suited to the school’s population,” said Rooney. “Our strength has and continues to be the dedicated school security force who are committed to helping provide a safe learning and working environment for students and staff,” added Hellmuth. “Security in our schools has come a long ways ... I believe we have an exceptional program.”

Transcripts System Gets Mixed Reviews by Leah Schroeder ‘13 This fall was the first time that TCCI: Family Connections, a purely electronic system, was used to send seniors’ transcripts and letters of recommendation to the colleges to which they were applying. While some students appreciate its speed and wealth of information, others are frustrated because they do not know how to use the system or if their materials were sent on time. “[Family Connections] was good for keeping track of all the colleges I applied to and their deadlines. It was also helpful with other stuff like helping me make a resumé and looking up careers I am interested in. It was only annoying when it did not update quickly to show whether my transcripts were sent or not,” said senior Janet Mansaray, who applied to five schools and whose materials turned out to have been sent without a problem. To use the system, students set up accounts and selected colleges. Students were responsible for providing their Common Application username and password, inputting the application deadlines and requesting transcripts 15 business days before the deadline. Registrar Janette Hernandez, Career and College Advisor Joe Hock and school secretary Barbara Lee, who works in the registrar’s office, sent the materials to colleges via the website. Teacher and counselor recommendations also had to be requested online, and once uploaded, were sent in the same manner. As an additional assurance, students were asked to submit a paper transcript request to resolve any discrepancies found on Family Connections. “The goal is not to miss anything,” said Hock. “I had several lunchtimes where students, if they had any problems, could come in for help. In a lot of ways, it is easier and simpler. It is just new.” As of November 29, 322 of the 495 seniors have had their transcripts sent and all deadlines have been

Bridget Cook ‘14

Seniors line up in front of the registrar’s office to submit transcript requests and to check the status of their submissions. met. If the school does not make a deadline, Lee will contact the school and explain the situation. For the approximately 10 percent of schools that do not accept transcripts electronically, Family Connections indicates so and these transcripts will be sent by mail. If any school complained about not being able to read a transcript, a second version was faxed or mailed to the school. According to Hock, some of the problems that frequently arose included students not entering or entering incorrectly their Common Application username and password, forgetting to request transcripts and recommendations, and students putting different colleges on Family Connections than on their paper transcript request. Senior Cooper Weinberger, who applied to five schools, went to his counselor one or two times a week for the entire first quarter to ensure that the process had been completed correctly. However, one of his schools claimed to have never received his transcripts, which was not resolved for a few weeks. Hock notes that this new system assists in resolving situations like these because when each item is received by the

school, except for those using the Common Application, Sherwood is given a verification code. The deadline for submitting the application and requesting the transcript created concern. Students had initially been told when submitting their paper transcript requests that the request would not be received unless applications were complete as it would help to avoid colleges misplacing materials. Lesia Dunkins, the head of the counseling department, indicated that colleges prefer students complete the application before receiving transcripts, but stated that Sherwood will still send the materials in time for a student’s first deadline. As it is an MCPS mandate, the system will continue to be in place next year. To improve the process, Hock and Dunkins are rewriting the directions given to seniors during their meetings with their counselors in the summer prior to senior year. They will also be training teachers to send their own letters of recommendation on the system, rather than just uploading them. They are also considering requiring students to make requests 20 business days in advance of the deadline.

The Warrior•News

December 13, 2012

Maintaining Grades’ Integrity ic responsibilities to different staff. Through November 19, 15.2 percent marking period just to get them to a higher of students had three unexcused absences grade,” said English teacher Patricia Jas- and 3.5 percent had five or more. While now. the numbers may seem alarming, Assistant As an Honors English 12 teacher, Jas- Principal Terry Heintze noted that most of now has more at stake when it comes to the unexcused absences are a result of stustudents passing her class than other teach- dents forgetting to bring in notes. ers because English is the only subject stu- Making up late work is not a part of the dents must take all four years to graduate. attendance contract, but falls under guide English resource teacher Shelley lines for grading and reporting. “The counJackson believes that bumping a grade de- ty’s grading and reporting policy states if a stroys the integrity of the grading system. student is absent ... it is expected they make “I would never bump a grade at the end of up the work. However, if the absence is unthe quarter,” said Jackson. “I don’t think excused, they may not get the grade until it it is fair to give away points. If a student is excused,” said Gregory. messed up due to something serious going This opportunity to turn in late work or on that I didn’t know about when it hap- make up missed tests has caused consternapened, and I found out about it later, I may tion among some teachers in cases when stuallow a student to make up an assignment dents are completing work weeks after the for partial credit ... especially if the nega- original due date. In response, the English tive pattern of behavior had changed sig- department is working on a departmental nificantly.” grading policy so that there is consistency Other than setbacks caused by unfore- in how to address assignments from abseen or special sent students. circumstancUnder the dees, Jackson “I do not feel it is equitable to all stu- partment’s probelieves that posed policy, if graduation is dents if a student is allowed to not put a student has easily attain- in the requisite effort over the course an unexcused able but that of an entire marking period just to absence on the students can day an assignbe stymied by have exceptions or concessions made ment is due, their own ap- at the end of the marking period just to the teacher athy. “There will give the are almost no get them to a higher grade.” student a new students in this ~English teacher Patricia Jasnow due date to turn building that in the assignwork hard and ment, but the fail classes … The failures come from the student will have a zero until the absence multiple zeros,” said Jackson. is excused, and the assignment will not be One reason for these multiple zeros is accepted after the new due date. students missing class and not completing Counselors work with teachers in the assignments or tests on those days. Under best interest of the student. “On one hand, Sherwood’s attendance policy, students counselors advocate for the student. On the with three unlawful absences will be given other hand, we try to strike a fine balance a warning and referred to their counselor with the teachers,” said Leisa Dunkins, and administrator, and students with five head of the counseling department. will be required to submit an Academic In- “It’s a different responsibility having tervention Plan or appeal the absence. the gradebook in your hands,” said Jack After Gregory found out that this pro- son. “The counselor is looking at the emocess was not being followed, with instanc- tional well-being of the student and doesn’t es when nothing was happening to students always have all of the academic informawith unexcused absences, he sought to fix tion. The teacher has to look at more than the system. Gregory brought together his just the emotional element of things beEducational Management Team, consisting cause the teacher has a contractual responof counselors, administrators and others, to sibility to give a grade that has integrity go through a list of students with unex- that says a student has mastered a certain cused absences and began to assign specif- percentage of the curriculum.”

from GRADE, pg.1

Jamie Langbein ‘13

Paint Branch students work in a new state-of-the-art library. The tower at the top of the library can be seen from afar, acting as a beacon for students and citizens alike to see.

Schools Built for the Future by Jamie Langbein ‘13

Since the K wing was built at Sherwood five years ago, other MCPS schools have undergone construction, leaving Sherwood more a remnant of the 20th century than a model for learning in the 21st. Paint Branch opened a new school this year, after about nine years of planning, two delays in construction and $94 million. The school has features unimaginable to Sherwood including a state-of-the-art production studio, a dozen computer labs, and a library setup that mimics what students may see in a college. According to Principal Jeanette Dixon, who has overseen Paint Branch since 2001, the changes were long overdue. The old school, originally built in 1969, had an addition built in 1987. As the 21st century rolled around, the school was in need of renovation again. “Somehow, nothing ever seemed to mesh. [The building] had been redone, so you had a counseling unit that had no windows; if it was hot in one part of the building, it was cold in the other part and vice versa … It really had no infrastructure,” recalled Dixon. In Dixon’s opinion, the new school has done wonders for its students, staff and the community. “The students seem to be very appreciative of [the new school]. In fact, the SGA and the student class president came to see me about helping to raise some funds for the people of Haiti,” said Dixon. “The students realize they have so much … I think the building is inspiring students and staff to help others as well.” Differences between a school like Sherwood and a modernized school like

Paint Branch are behind-the-scenes changes. The most significant change is the efficiency of the school. This includes infrastructure like heating, ventilation and window location. Efforts were made to ensure sufficient square footage for each classroom and enough classrooms and permanent spaces for teachers. Another factor taken into consideration is the location of administration, so they may best monitor visitor activity to increase safety. As for features that directly influence the students, new structures are determined by existing programs in the school. For example, at Paint Branch, they have installed a kitchen where students interested in the restaurant industry can get experience. This program was running before the modernization and was improved upon when the new school was built. Paint Branch isn’t the only school in MCPS that will be “modernized.” There are multiple schools currently planning to entirely rebuild their school. The criteria for modernization are based off of rubric scores. Whichever schools score highest receive the money from the annual budget to start the process. These rubrics, called Facilities Assessment with Criteria and Testing (FACT), have Belmont Elementary School with the third highest score of all elementary schools. Greenwood Elementary school placed fourteenth, and Sherwood Elementary school placed thirty-fourth. No cluster middle schools were scored. As for the high schools, Gaithersburg is next to be modernized, with completion projected in 2014. Sherwood was not considered due to the K hall addition.

The Warrior thanks its many wonderful patrons: Adam Family, Adkins Family, Alewynre Family, John and Sarah Arness, Audibert Family, Bina Family, Broderick Family, Carr Family, Carrera Family, Carswell Family, Craig Family, Cudd Family, D’Amato Family, Dickey Family, Dowrick Family, Fajardo Family, Farrell Family, Fernandes Family, David Ferris, Rosanne Ferris, John Fetty and Associate’s—Architecture and Design, Florian Family, Fricke Family, Gallagher Family, Ganey Family, Garcia-Rada Family, Greseth Family, Rob and Lynette Hall, Halprin Family, Dick and Vivian Harris, Hierholzer Family, Hong Family, Keilsohn Family, Kendall Family, Kenel Family, Kimmel Family, Kirk Family, Kotzer Family, Kozlowski Family, Rachel Knight, Kyber/Loughran Family, Lampshire Family, Stuart and Lyn Langbein, Lavoie Family, Lourenco Family, Macrae Family, Paul and Pat Mangus, Martin Family, Masters Family, Melnick Family, Mezebish Family, Miller Family, Jerry and BJ Mills, Morrison Family, Mourtoupalas Family, Murphy Family, Michael and Jessica Natelli, Hao and Diep Nguyen, Nickerson Family, Nimrat Family, O’Donnell Family, Osborne Family, Paese Family, Paetro Horspall Family, Paholski Family, Pletcher—Stinehelfer Family, Porter Family, Kurt and Louise Porter, Salzwedel and Moratz Family, Sanchez Family, Scafide Family, Schroeder Family, Schwartz Family, Josey and Chris Simpson, Sousane Family, Strohmeyer Family, Stussman Family, Sutherland Family, Thorndike Family, Van Gelder Family, Verma Family, Wasik Family, Dan and Kathy Walsh, Tom and Susan Wells, Whitt Family, Todd and Renate Wilson, Witkin Family, Zhang Family If you are interested in becoming a patron, contact Peter Huck at Peter_J_Huck@mcpsmd.org

The Warrior•News December 13, 2012

Malfunctioning Copiers Anger Teachers Conflict Arises Over Change in Start Times

by Joy Zhang ‘14 Teachers have encountered a problem of chronically broken copiers since the beginning of the school year. They have become increasingly frustrated with broken copiers interfering with lesson plans. After multiple complaints from teachers, Sherwood administration contacted MCPS, which sent personnel to fix the machines. MCPS previously had a copier program that replaced old copiers with new ones every couple of years. About four years ago, MCPS changed this policy. Instead of buying new copiers, it started to service the broken copiers by refurbishing them with old parts. This resulted in copiers that were never optimally functional, leading to the crisis Sherwood staff is facing this year. The school has three copiers, and there have been instances when all three are not working at the same time. The unreliability of the copiers caused math teacher James Key to start a log documenting when the copier in the staff lounge by the media center was uncooperative. From October 9 to November 12, there had been more than 80 instances of paper jams, inability to staple or make double sided copies, printing papers four times too dark and bent papers. “I enjoy the challenge of working with students. I enjoy the challenge of designing engaging learning activities. Making copies should not be a challenge; it should be the easiest part of my day,” said Key. “[The copiers] constantly break down. It’s become a major point of frustration and a road block to doing our job. You get here early, you want to be productive, you want

from TIMES, pg.1

Joy Zhang ‘14

Teachers put up a clever sign to lighten the mood of a challenging situation regarding tempermental copiers that often do not work. to get things done … but you end up spending all this time that you could be using to grade papers or write letters of recommendation fighting with the copy machines,” said social studies teacher Christine McKeldin. She is also one of the two Elected Faculty Representatives (EFR) at Sherwood, and she shared the staff’s frustration over the copiers with the school’s Instructional Leadership Team (ILT). Teachers also wrote emails, pleading for the problem to be resolved. Principal Bill Gregory contacted MCPS. After many exchanged emails, MCPS attended to the problem. “People from MCPS did come out and look at the machines. They made a fix to one of the machines. We have not

seen the same type of issues. I feel confident the issues have been addressed and our voice heard,” said Gregory. Following Key’s lead, the school has placed a book by the main office copier to monitor issues if they arise. Gregory plans to send the record of problems to the MCPS central office, if any problems occur. Key remains unconvinced that the issue has been resolved. “All the corners came out bent, which has been happening for a couple of months now and that has not been addressed. The last couple of days, the machine has been shut down. Today, people have been using the machine and it’s been jamming,” said Key after attempting to use a copier on November 27.

would simply be pushed back. “If you start later, then practice starts [and ends] later, and then you’re still staying up later to do homework. Family obligations, more homework one night, practice or a game; you run into those problems,” said Miller. According to an MCPS study, “Changing Bell Times,” issued in January 1998, these same problems caused the standardization of the 7:25 start time in all high schools in 1993. Since then, MCPS has conducted research on whether or not high schools should start later. In 1997, three MCPS high schools shifted to a later start time, but this shift created inconsistent results in academic achievement, and showed no absolute evidence that starting later benefitted classroom performance. The online petition for later start times needs 15,000 signatures before being sent to Superintendent Joshua Starr. There are 10,120 signatures as of December 10. Whether or not Starr will consider later start times is unknown. “Things would have to change, and it would be a culture shock. MCPS is ginormous, [and if later start times change], that’s a large amount of people that are being affected. I wouldn’t see MCPS making a move until a smaller district did it and saw some proof,” said McKeldin. The petition is online at signon.org/ sign/changing-montgomery-county.

The Warrior•Lifestyle

December 13, 2012

What’s in for 2013

As the year comes to an end, The Warrior brings you what is out for 2012 and in for 2013. by Katie Mercogliano ‘14

Television OUT

OUT

Reality Shows

Comedies

New comedies like “The New Normal” and “The Mindy Project” are bringing witty humor back to late night television, and fortunately beating out pointless reality shows.

Movies OUT

Vampires

Music IN

Technology

Throughout much of 2012, you couldn’t turn on the radio without hearing an Adele song from her Grammy winning album, “21.” But leading into 2013, Lana Del Rey has stolen the spotlight with her re-release of “Born to Die: Paradise Edition,” catching everyone’s attention with her haunting vocals and bold lyrics.

Windows has reinvented the tablet with Windows Surface, making it more versatile than the iPad ever was. Windows Surface is the best of both worlds, with a thin keyboard and a speedy, organized touchscreen.

Sports

OUT

Windows Surface

iPad

Lana Del Rey

Adele

OUT

Classics

Hollywood has been turning books into films for decades. With new films like “The Hobbit” and “Les Miserables,” works of classic literature are returning to the big screen in place of vampire fantasies like “Twilight.”

Drake

Kendrick Lamar

With what is considered one of the best rap albums of the year, “good kid, m.A.A.d city,” Kendrick Lamar is taking over the music industry with his fresh sound, whereas Drake has lost his originality. Kendrick Lamar is carrying out the legacy started by West Coast hip-hop king like Tupac Shakur.

Michael Vick

Robert Griffin III

Robert Griffin III has given the Maryland and D.C. area hope, producing victories that Redskins fans never thought were possible. In contrast, Michael Vick has run the Eagles to last place in the division.

How to Make the Most of Your Winter Break by Sydney Morrison ‘13

Winter Break should be a time of relaxation and fun away from school, but don’t let it go to waste! Don’t spend the 10-day vacation bumming out on the couch in front of the T.V. surrounded by Chipotle burrito wrappers (at least not for the whole week). Here are some fun ways to spend your time more wisely and help you cherish every moment of that precious Winter Break. Break is the ultimate money pit. #1 Winter Eating out with friends, going to the mov-

ies and abusing all of those holiday sales can really take a toll on your wallet. Instead of heading to Rio or Rockville to eat dinner and catch a flick, head to the basement that you’ve been neglecting since school started. While leaving the house may be what you’re aiming for, staying in has its advantages. You can invite many more friends over to your house than to the movies, so tell them all to bring a snack or money for Chinese food. Make sure everyone is wearing sweatpants (as this is the only acceptable time to wear them!). And since your mom is so happy you finally have friends over she’ll let you buy a movie or two On-Demand, and maybe spot you a few bucks the next time you do want to go out. **House of Fortune delivers! So you don’t have to worry about leaving your house in sweatpants … and Kung Pao Chicken is only $8.95. Win.

the slopes! It may be an obvious idea #2 Hit to go snowboarding or skiing over Winter Break, but hey seniors, we can drive now remember? Make it a day trip and head on over to Whitetail Resort with a car full of friends. Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? They offer snow tubing all day as well. Or you can learn! Take someone who knows how to teach you, both of you will have way more fun in the snowy mountains than here in Olney, that’s for sure. **It only costs $56 for eight hours of skiing!

a beach house? There’s actually no bet#3 Have ter time to go to Rehobeth or Dewey Beach

than in the off season. You may not want to bring a bathing suit this time, but it’s a perfect opportunity to get your winter shopping done at the outlets where everything costs less and you’re not being taxed! Go for just a day if you don’t have a place. A nice walk along the beach without all the annoying tourists will wipe all that school stress away. Plus, blasting those new albums during that long drive will really put you in a good mood while you get away from Olney for a few days. **Worried about gas? Don’t be. It’s cheaper in Delaware.

in the house while the parents are at #4 Stuck work? It’s the perfect time to take a personal

day. Wake up early and get to the gym to kickstart your day. Or go for a quick run and then try some of “Cal’s Workouts” (see page 6). Reward yourself for being awesome by making pancakes for breakfast (preferably of the chocolate chip variety). Now you have the whole day to do whatever you want and you’re already in a great mood. **Bored with no ride? Search Pinterest for some DIY projects and delicious recipes to keep you occupied. up on all those #5 Catch novels you’ve been

“meaning to read.” You finally have countless hours to kick your feet up and enjoy a good book that’s not written by William Shakespeare. **Try J.K. Rowling’s new novel, “The Casual Vacancy”

The Warrior•Lifestyle

December 13, 2012

Appetizing Alternatives to Seasonal Favorites by Michaela O’Donnell ‘13

Try Hot Chocolate

Instead of Eggnog

During the holidays, many people have a tendency to choose unhealthy foods. Here are some healthier options for your favorite holiday temptations.

Try a Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookie

Instead of an Inception Cookie •Eggnog has twice the amount of fat and carbs per cup. •Similar in the amounts of sugar and cholesterol per cup. Tip: Avoid the fatty marshmallows and add equal amount of water and milk to the mixture for added calcium.

Try Turkey

Instead of Honey Baked Ham

•The Oreo alone in the Inception Cookie has more sugar and carbs than the oatmeal cookie. •Inception cookies are extremely high in fat, carbs and sugar. Tips: Add nuts and any extra treats to add flavor and protein. Don’t be skimpy with the chocolate chips. Treating yourself with a controlled amount of chocolate will tend to the sweet cravings without the guilty feeling.

•Turkey is slightly higher in cholesterol yet has no carbs compared to ham’s four grams of carbs per slice. •Ham has more fat than turkey. Tip: Avoid the skin on the turkey to lessen your fat intake.

Healthy Holiday Habits Cal’s Workouts

The winter is when people sit inside, eat and begin developing that winter chub. Here is a workout compiled for fat burning that only takes 20 minutes. Just start at the first station and complete the exercise as many times as possible in a 30-second period, then take a 15-second break before beginning the next station. Continue this process until you have finished the sixth station, then take a two minute break before starting all over with the first station. Do this until you have completed all exercises three times.

(5) Burpees

(1) 30-foot Sprints Works the legs

1: Measure 30-feet (or steps) from one point to another 2: Sprint from one end to the other 3: Jog back to the starting point before exploding back

* This exercise is all about explosion. Sprint as hard as you can as soon as you get back to the start point

Works the legs, chest and shoulders

(4) Plank Walk Ups

Works the abs, chest and shoulders 1: Start in a plank position on your forearms

shoulder width apart 2: Begin by lifting one forearm onto its hand 3: Next, lift the other forearm onto its hand 4: Finish with a pushup to a pushup position 5: Reverse steps to return to plank position

1: Start at a standing position 2: Squat down to the ground 3: Kick your legs out into a pushup position 4: Pushup 5: Bring legs in 6: Jump up into the air as high as possible

(6) Pushup Position Plank

Works the core, chest and shoulders 1: Hold a push up position with hands shoul-

(2) Crunches (with feet in the air)

der width apart

Works the abs

1: Lay down, stomach up, legs crossed at 90

(3) Squats

*Try not to use arms to swing yourself

1: Start at a standing position 2: Squat down 3: Stand back up

degrees 2: Lift head up in between legs

*Make sure to flex the buttocks and contract the abs to burn more calories and tighten the core

Works the legs

*Keep your head up and eyes looking upwards so your back stays straight and does not bend. Do not let your knees past your feet. If this happens, try keeping your butt back

Cal Wilson The Warrior’s Personal Trainer

For step-by-step pictures of all of the excersises, check out The Warrior Online (www.thewarrioronline.com).

The Warrior•Features

December 13, 2012 of...

JOEY BASCOMB by Jessica Carrera ‘13

NOVEMBER 19 “We’re seniors, Jessica. Seniors, woohoo!” Joey Bascomb is one of 495 seniors graduating in June 2013, but he will be the only one with his signature matching shoes and bangle bracelets. Every day, Bascomb comes to school wearing a principle color that the rest of his outfit revolves around. Today it was blue, specifically “Warrior blue. Go Sherwood!” he exclaimed gleefully. There’s no one with more school spirit than Bascomb and his enthusiasm shines through in everything that he does. As he walked around the tennis courts with his peers, a routine before the start of the modified general Physical Education (PE) class, everyone he spoke to was greeted with an exuberant “good morning” which was promptly followed by “what are you doing for Thanksgiving?” The educational day began with the introduction of the new unit: field hockey. “The unit will move in a progression. We start with hitting [the ball] then go on to passing, then passing and moving, and finally shooting,” said PE teacher Bonnie Gilchrist. Though every student in the class has a different ability level, the staff of the Special Education program handled all the different needs very well and expected nothing less than the students’ best effort.

On the way back into the gym, Bascomb was asked if it was safe to cross the street. After he determined it was, he said “Okay, Jessica, time to cross,” and proceeded to guide me safely across the small stretch of road. Besides his innate kind nature, Bascomb is extremely considerate of those around him, always mindful of their feelings. Once gym class ended, Bascomb joined a classmate and Vickie Fisher, a paraeducator, for his Skills Building block. During this time, he wheeled around a cart of hot beverages and delivered them to teachers who have pre-paid for the service (known as “Sherbucks”). Vocational Education serves as training for the students in the School-Community Based program so that they are able to obtain supported employment once they have gone through the seven-year program. “[Skills Building] helps to improve vocational skills and helps them to be self-reliant. They learn to manage money as well as how to communicate with adults,” said Special Educator teacher Rosanne Ferris. Bascomb enjoyed making his rounds and delightfully delivered the beverages, but he lit up when he went into Dr. Mary Baker’s classroom. As soon as he walked in, Bascomb was greeted by the students calling his name and warmly saying “hello;” though he can be shy at first, Bascomb loves talking to others and jumps at

Jessica Carrera ‘13’

the chance to make new friends. Fisher explained that Bascomb “goes into the classroom to give them the coffee and say hello,” as he finishes her sentence with “and wave, wave, wave!” After lunch in the cafeteria, the classes divided up and Bascomb headed to Skill Lines with Sumi and Nathanial, friends and peers of his that join him in the inclusion dance class taught by

PE teacher Sandi Williams. This is by far Bascomb’s favorite class. On this particular day, there was no music playing, but the class continued and Bascomb was adding his own flair to every move. “[Bascomb] has a very bubbly, effervescent personality; I don’t think I’ve ever seen him upset. He has great people skills and he loves to talk to them about clothes and jewelry. Every-

body loves him,” said Fisher. The day ended with a rousing game of “Diner” and cookies as a special treat. As Bascomb ate, he looked around, smiled and said “Happy times. Specifically, happy times.”

Every issue, The Warrior will follow “A Day in the Life” of another Sherwood student. Will the next one be you?

Pressure of RNR Auditions Eased by Preparation by Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada ‘13

of songs … and once I’ve established it [for the audition], I start learning the song and training my voice to sing it to the best of my ability,” said Kovalsky. Senior Kelsey Rood, a backup singer in last year’s show and soloist this year, prepares for au-

whom rates student auditions on a five-point scale. Scores are tallied based on movement, vocals, It is now Sherwood’s 42nd costumes and stage presence. year presenting Rock ‘n’ Roll Some students have special Revival, one of the school’s techniques they use to relax. most respected traditions. Over “Right before I go into the the years, students have peraudition room I take deep breaths formed in the annual and close my eyes. I show held each March, try to picture myself singing, dancing or “I go to a vocal coach once a week, and doing really well and playing in the band. the judgshe helps me work on my audition song. blowing However, not all es away,” said senior the students interested It helps me gain confidence and she Melissa Basso-Luin performing in Rock gives me good advice.” ca, a backup singer ‘n’ Roll can make it in. in last year’s show Nearly 300 people auand this year’s show. dition and only around Auditions this -Senior Kelsey Rood 150 students are cast. year were held NoTherefore, good auvember 26 and 27 and ditions are crucial, especially ditions differently. “I go to a vocal the audition process remained for students who are looking to coach once a week, and she helps the same as it had been previous get a solo. me work on my audition song. years. Like last year, students Senior Matt Kovalsky, a so- It helps me gain confidence and had to stand in a black square loist in Rock ‘n’ Roll last year and she gives me good advice,” said box and sing any song of their this year’s show, takes auditions Rood. choosing. “A row of familiar very seriously. “I start working Rock ‘n’ Roll auditions can faces greeted me in the audi[on my song] as soon as the pre- be very intimidating because there tion room, many of the same vious show ends. I start thinking are around eight judges, each of judges from last year. However,

Alyssa Miller ‘13

Senior Melissa Basso-Luca waits to audition in the quickly crowding music hallway. Almost 300 people tried out for Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival over the course of the two audition days. this year their faces somehow a part of Rock ‘n’ Roll. “I like seemed more friendly and less Rock ‘n’ Roll because it comintimidating,” said Basso-Luca. bines all my passions from lov Although auditions can be ing old songs to loving singing stressful, they are worth it to be and dancing,” said Kovalsky.

The Warrior•Features December 13, 2012

Twitter Fosters Teen Debates by Nick Mourtoupalas ‘13

Sherwood’s Twitter community is fueled by its most audacious students, constantly booming with fresh opinions, jokes and rumors. Some students who use and observe Twitter feel that its more adventurous users can make some disrespectful comments that shouldn’t be taken too seriously. Many of these comments are made in political discussions between students, especially since the recent presidential election. Sophomore Ankur Kayastha, who regularly tweets his political views, stated that “Sherwood students belittle others indirectly through subtweets. They’ll use pronouns instead of actual names, but often times it’s quite obvious who they’re talking about.” Politics is just one of the many topics about which students make bold statements. One of the more popular personas to take on is that of a comedian, certainly using a much less stern attitude toward their words. Senior Christian Carswell, “known for posting eye-catching things,” said, “I like to tell a lot of jokes and make people laugh. Either people really like it or strongly disagree, but for me it’s all just a big joke. I’m never trying to hurt anybody’s feelings.” Carswell also feels religion is a medium that students attempt to characterize themselves through on Twitter. “When you see someone post a biblical verse and you

know they don’t go to church every Sunday, you see that they want people to view them as religious, holy or involved in society,” said Carswell. “Social networking is fun for that purpose: to see which people think they know what they’re saying.” These identities that teens try to live by have gone as far as causing users like junior Dean Emerson to quit using Twitter altogether. “Part of the reason I deleted my Twitter is because everybody tries to be someone else. At times I’d fall into these wannabe categories of philosopher or comedian, and I didn’t want people to think that was the real me,” said Emerson. Ironically, there is a parody account about Emerson. “Twitter causes so much unnecessary drama. I’ll see people just going at it with each other. In reality, if you want to cause drama, which, frankly, you shouldn’t, do it to their face, not behind a computer screen,” said Emerson in regard to the commentators who use the Internet as a protected and sheltered medium for sounding their opinions. “Generally, I see a lot of posts by teens that seem rather narcissistic, selfish or angry,” added Emerson. “People tend to get offended over the smallest things on Twitter. If people didn’t take everything so seriously, it would actually be pretty funny. Twitter isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it’s just misused by the people who use it.”

Briana Applewhite ‘13

Senior Emily Kupersanin has an afterschool internship at DMV Fashion News & Events, where she can pursue her passion for fashion. Kupersanin designed the dress pictured above.

Aspiring Fashionista May Have Landed Big Break by Briana Applewhite ‘13 Breaking into the fashion industry can be one of the most terrifying things promising designers have to face, but senior Emily Kupersanin seems to have already achieved this task with ease. The talented and driven senior juggles a tedious school schedule and an internship at DMV Fashion News & Events in the afternoon. Students may have even seen her sporting some of her own designs. The Warrior sat down with Kupersanin to learn more about her endeavors. Where is your internship? How many times a week do you work? I am an intern at DMV Fashion News & Events. My internship is very different compared to many others’ internships. I don’t have a set schedule or a set place to go; everyday it varies. I sometimes have events over the weekend that I must attend or I have to do some research on the computer at home. A large part of my time is dedicated to emailing bands, boutiques, designers and venues. Can you talk a bit about the company and your duties? DMV Fashion News and Events is a new TV show starting in the DMV [DC, Maryland and Virginia] that basically promotes different artists, designers, boutiques, bands and venues that have made their mark either in DC, Maryland or Virginia. One of my main responsibilities is to find designers, boutiques and artists from the DMV to be featured

on the show. My most recent mission was to find three bands and a couple of venues that are making their mark in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Another role that I have is to be on the TV show on a segment we like to call Fashion Guppies where the focus is on someone trying to get into the fashion industry as a young adult. I also have to attend events such as local fashion shows or boutique promotions. We also are trying to plan a launch party in spring of 2013 so I have had to try and gain sponsorships from many different companies as well as finding a venue to host the event. In the coming months we hope to be able to attend New York’s fashion week as well as the fashion week in Miami. Does your ideal career aspiration involve fashion? Which aspects of it and in what ways? Fashion design has always been the ideal career choice for me since I was in fifth grade when I decided that I wanted to become a fashion designer. Since having that goal at such a young age I have tried to stay as close to the fashion industry as possible. I got my first job in ninth grade with a local store named Paula’s Boutique. The store later closed which led me to get my first internship with Designs by Nicole in eleventh grade. Now I am interning with DMV Fashion News & Events as well as working for the Enrichment Centers. My job is to go to schools, mostly in Bethesda, to teach fashion design to middle schoolers.

What motivated you to design your own clothes? What inspired me to first start sewing was the curiosity of watching my mother fixing holes with quick stitches. The more I started sewing the bigger my projects got. It seemed almost natural to keep advancing from Barbie clothes to making my own clothes. Also there are many relatives from my mother’s side that tailored clothing in Peru. Where do you channel your inspiration when making your own designs? My inspirations are not very typical for a fashion lover. I love looking at anything from the universe especially nebulas, galaxies, black holes, stars, planets and space in general. I also seek my inspiration from different cultures, music, color, poetry and artists. But one of the main things that inspires me is people. Where do you see yourself in the fashion world 10 years from now? I hope to still be advancing towards my goal of owning my own brand. I would love to start a company that exports designs that I have created as well as sell them in my own boutique stores. But overall I wish to be happy with my career choice. Many seek fame from extravagant dreams such as mine, but I would simply love to be able to support myself following my passion. It’s truly about waking up each morning being happy with the work I have created and will create in the future.

The Warrior•Features

December 13, 2012

Why Is Shakespeare Worth Reading? Shakespeare’s work is encountered by Sherwood students for at least three of their high school years, but why does MCPS devote so much time to this one guy?

What about students who will not be English majors?

Mrs. Reier, AP Literature & Hon. English 12 I teach “The Taming of the Shrew” because it is one of the only (if not THE only) Shakespearean comedy students may read at Sherwood. I enjoy Shakespeare’s use of wordplay, particularly in the scene when Petruchio and Kate meet for the first time. To me, it is a lighthearted comedy with a happy ending (no death).

No other writer peers as deeply into our souls as William Shakespeare. The literary scholar Harold Bloom notes that Shakespeare reads us more fully than we can read him. This mysterious playwright delves into the very essence of our humanity, poses questions about our life philosophies, and promises that our full attention will be generously rewarded. Reading Shakespeare is a life affirming experience.

If students don’t like reading the plays, why would they want to see one?

Anne Carroll, President of Shakespeare Club

Are the plays always so depressing?

Ms. Evans, Hon. English 10 & 11

Shakespeare’s Reviews egj

Shakespeare did not write his plays to be read. He meant them to be acted, to be watched, to be listened to. He meant for his audience to interact with the play, and become involved. The amount of puns and double entendres that he put into his plays that he meant for the ‘underlings’ or the common people seeing his plays actually is a good representation of high schooler humor. Someone who is well versed in Shakespeare’s works once told me, “if it sounds dirty, it probably is.” I didn’t think that Shakespeare was allowed to be funny, but once I started looking for his jokes, I couldn’t stop finding them.

The Array of Shakespeare at Sherwood

“He was the man who of all modern, and perhaps ancient poets, had the largest and most comprehensive soul.”

“The remarkable thing about Shakespeare is that he is really very good - in spite of all the people who say he is very good.”

-John Dryden, English poet, playwright and literary critic

-Robert Graves, English poet, scholar and novelist

“We shall never overestimate Shakespeare, because we can not. Some men and things lie beyond the danger of hyperbole.” -William A. Quayle, American Methodist bishop

The Warrior•Humor

December 13, 2012

MCPS Approves ‘Bring Your Pet to School Day’ by Connor Martin ‘13

It’s always fun to take a break from the monotony of the daily school routine, and that often comes in the form of a day off from school or a specially-themed day. Now, MCPS administrators have decided to add a new inschool holiday. This month, MCPS is implementing a pilot program throughout the county that will allow students to bring their pets to school. A total of 10 schools will participate. Sherwood was chosen as one of the locations that will participate, and if successful, the program will return next year. Students will be allowed to bring their pets to school for one day, and for Sherwood, that day is December 21. Most pets are welcome, but there are a few exceptions. Snakes, spiders and all potentially lethal pets will not come to school. However, dogs, cats, rodents (with the exception of sewer rats) and birds are allowed. Pet lovers throughout Sherwood are ecstatic about the upcoming pet day. “People love pets and everyone is just happier [with animals around],” said senior Megan Lim, who plans on bringing her Shih Tzu, Sadie, to school. Other students are not so happy about the new day. “I’m allergic to cats and dogs, so I don’t know what I’m supposed to do. Do I skip school that day?” asked

senior Madeline Van Cott. MCPS administrators anticipated this potential problem, and came up with the perfect solution. On the new “Bring Your Pet to School Day,” students who have pet allergies will be locked into the auxiliary gym, which will permit them to spend the entire seven-hour school day safe from the animals. They will have absolutely no contact with the rest of the school for the entire day, including lunch. This also means those students will not have access to any of their teachers, classes or any of the bathrooms. Some of the pilot programs have already occurred, and the results are very promising, according to Cassandra Milton, a seventh grader from Rocky Hill Middle School, who was pleased with how the day went. “The animals were so cute, and I loved seeing them all over the school. But the halls were pretty smelly, I’ve never seen so much dog poop,” she explained, “That said, it was definitely worth it.” Liam Carr, a freshman from Quince Orchard, was excited to bring his frog to school at first, but that later changed. “It was terrible. Frogger jumped out of his box, and then went hopping across all the heavy hallway traffic! I never found him again.” Sherwood is one of three schools in the pilot program that has not yet held the special day.

Student Reactions to 'Bring Your Pet to School Day' Name: Rachel Samuelson School: seneca valley Pet: Mike, the parrot “Turns out my bird just kind of repeated and mocked my teachers all day until I got kicked out of each class.”

Name: Arthur Calloway School: Quince orchard Pet: Blendy, the chameleon “I think I lost Blendy somewhere between math and English. I looked away for one second, and he was gone.”

Christmas Demands of a Diva Obama To Cause

The holidays should be a time of appreciation and generosity, but girls our age seem to take advantage of this festive occasion to make outrageous demands. I admit I’m one of those brats …

My Wishlist 10) Lots and lots of nail polish 9) Ugg boots 8) Tiffany’s jewelry 7) Northface jacket 6) iPhone 5 5) Phone cases for my new phone (in every color of the rainbow) 4) My own car... and a chauffeur 3)My servant to feed me, do my homework, scratch my back, fetch me things. 2)Tickets to an N’ SYNC concert (I know they’re separated but daddy has connections, right?) 1) A new sister (I hate my brother, I need someone to gossip and braid with)

Joy Zhang ‘14

Epic Doomsday Americans’ optimism at all-time high for President Obama’s term to lead to end of days and rapture. by Alex Porter ‘13 After a disappointing first term, Americans who anticipated an Armageddon to accompany President Obama’s time in office are ready to give him another shot. Without the looming specter of reelection, the paranoid who await the end of days hope that the president will bring the doomsday they were promised. America’s first black, Muslim, non-citizen, lizard antichrist was elected four years ago, with a public eagerly anticipating the unearthly disasters he would deliver unto the Earth. “Instead of rending this country apart, all he’s done is made healthcare mandatory. That’s nice and controversial or whatever, but I expected the streets to run with blood,” said one fearful Clint Paul of Kansas City, Missouri. “I think the president has been given a mandate; that crazies around the country expect something big this term, a more active summoner of evil. Many Americans voted against Obama, but retain hope that he will hasten the rapture’s arrival. These

constituents demand results,” explained Lucius Gordon, fellow at the American Conspiratorial Institute. “Voters chose diabolic values, and the president’s commitment to reality over asylum-worthy doomsday fantasies over the first term has been greatly disheartening.” Supporters cite increased chaos in the Middle East, birthplace of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, as evidence of Obama’s compact with the devil. Also, while fire does not rain from the skies in America, God’s favorite country, Obama has brought it to many others with unmanned bombings. “No wonder his approval rating is higher overseas than it is at home,” quipped Ulysses Wilson, a small business owner in Albany who genuinely anticipates a Biblical crisis to erupt in the next four years. Wilson has never read the Bible, and preferred drawing in the holy book when he last attended church service at 11 years old. Others believe politicians can only act within the plane of reality, but this is becoming increasingly unpopular.

The Warrior•Humor

December 13, 2012

In the Halls Annoying Airwaves by Brendan Cudd ‘14 Don’t you just hate it when you’re walking in the halls and somebody is blaring their music without headphones? Because the first thing I want to hear when I walk in the door is music bouncing off the walls. I can’t stand it when students who “forgot” to bring their listening devices decide to blast music you don’t want to hear. I despise it when someone is playing music loudly and you have to scream to the person walking next to you in the halls, then when they walk away it gets quiet suddenly, and you sound dumb because you are screaming at your friend sitting next to you. Even during the middle of class people think it’s cool to blast loud music throughout the halls: well it’s not. In fact, some people, including myself, loathe it. I think everyone would agree that people need to stop playing loud music so I can actually talk to and listen to my friends without putting tissues in my ears.

YOLO: Walking the Wrong Way by Jenni Kenel ‘14

graphic by Cal Wilson ‘14

Fun Holiday Carol Rudolph Got Run Over By My Grandma Just as he arrived on Christmas Day She had gotten sick and tired of hearing that song where she gets trampled by a sleigh. She'd been listening to the radio and she nearly lost her breath yellin' cuss words at the DJ for playin' that song where she gets hooved to death. So she set out on the warpath there was evil in her eye she said "I'm gonna find that reindeer and by golly, one of us is gonna die!" Rudolph Got Run Over by my Grandma just as he arrived on Christmas Day She had gotten sick and tired of hearin' that song where she gets trampled by a sleigh. Santa Claus had made a landing on the new expressway Grandma was doin' 120 with her headlights pointed straight at Santa’s sleigh. http://realchristmas.com/2007/12/rudolph-got-run-over-by-my-grandma/

Students in this school need to learn that walking in a hallway is like driving on the road- there are rules to follow or crashes occur. No, walking on the wrong side of the hall does not give you “swag” or make you seem “cool.” Honestly, if you are one of the people that are walking on the wrong side of the hall you’re just getting in people’s way. Some may say “YOLO, let’s go the wrong way.” Let me just say that if you want to live once then you should walk on the correct side of the hall so that you can live, in general. If you walk around aimlessly in the morning, that’s okay, and I’m down with that. But if you are walking in between classes on the wrong side, there’s one thing I have to say: either get a sense of direction or learn how to USE the one that you claim to have. It may save lives in the crowded halls of Sherwood.

‘Warning Obstacles’ *BOOM* by Cal Wilson ‘14

Sometimes, I feel like a spaceship in the halls, dodging students like they’re asteroids. I barely have enough room as is, but as soon as I turn my head for three seconds to high-five my friend, the student in front of me stops and I get a face full of backpack. Unless someone is losing gallons of blood a minute from a severe paper cut there is no, I repeat, NO, reason why you should stop. Oh OK, looks like that penny you dropped is lost forever. Oops, you didn’t get to discuss the latest episode of “Pretty Little Liars” with your friend? (Yes, I know Season 4 isn’t until January) Too bad. Some of us have places to go and people to see, so no, I will not apologize for pushing you out of my way. In fact, I hope you fall forward and feel what it’s like to run into a random peer. That awkward moment is traumatic. If you want a place to gossip with your friends, there is a little place called the classroom for that.

cartoon by Meagan Barrett ‘15

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by Melissa Fajardo ‘13 Many school boards believe non-fiction is the key to a successful career because it serves as a good model for the reading and writing that are imperative in the work force. Maryland is in the process of revamping the curriculum to expose its students to more non-fiction texts, and MCPS is already taking steps to reflect this change by ushering in a brand new English 9 curriculum. In 2010, the Maryland School Board formally adopted the Common Core State Standards. This initiative, also adopted by 45 other states, is designed to develop the skills young people will actually be using in the future to compete in the global economy. This curriculum would be incorporated across all subjects, giving students a diet enriched with history and science. In particular, the Common Core states that students will progressively attribute their reading time to historical documents, scientific tracts, maps and other informational texts. The standards recommend students read 70 percent non-fiction in all their classes—not just English—by 12th grade. Opponents, including some English teachers, believe that great literature can still give students the critical thinking and writing skills they need. But proponents attest that more experience with non-fiction will prepare students for texts that will more likely be seen on the work desk. In a recent article in The New York Times, David Coleman, president of the College Board said, “It is rare in a working environment that someone said, ‘Johnson, I need a market analysis by Friday but before that I need a compelling account of your childhood.’”

Where Are We H e

A Higher Dose of Non-Fiction

Curriculum 2.0 Brings Big Changes to MCPS

Ho li

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an ‘14

The average American student spends more than 4,000 hours in high school. Over 700 days of their adolescence are spent in classrooms. All that time is devoted to thought, enrichment and learning. Knowledge helps people process the world around us. It is a weapon, sharpened through years of schooling. Some educators, however, worry that traditional American education dulls the full potential of students by focusing on linear brain processes and logic at the expense of creativity and intuition. The human brain consists of two major masses – the left hemisphere and the right hemisphere. The left brain deals with language, numbers, critical thinking and logical reasoning. Emotions, sensations and intuitions are associated with the right brain. It absorbs music and art, responds to visuals and sees things as a whole. Modern public schooling in America historically focuses on the intellectual benefits of the left hemisphere in all classes aside from art and music. A quote attributed to Albert Einstein says “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.” As defined by Ron Miller, the founder of the journal Holistic Education Review, holistic education is based on the premise that each person finds his identity and purpose through connections to the community, the natural world, and humanitarian values such as compassion and peace. It is the weaving of new knowledge into everything students already understand, and the combining of all subjects into one instead of isolated paths. Students learn through relating instead of through repetition, and use both sides of the brain to absorb the information. The idea of holistic and whole-brain learning emerged in the 1980s as parents searched for a more fulfilling education for their children. Lucila Telles, a Graduate Rudge of The Ohio State University, which largely utilizes holistic teaching, describes a holistic education as, “rooted in concepts of wholeness, integration and interconnectedness.” This type of learning has sprouted in all levels of schooling and is widely used in both Canada and Europe, though scarcely in the United States. However, American school systems are increasingly embedding holistic learning into new curriculum and instruction. MCPS’ 2.0 curriculum aims to combine subjects and make connections to the real world that would utilize both brain hemispheres and develop students who can think creatively by using the information they learn in school in all parts of their lives.

Less Paper, More Pixels by Emma Hierholzer ‘15 With new advances in the education world, the longtime dream of a “worldwide classroom” with students collaborating from around the globe may have a newfound validity as reported in The Washington Post. Free online courses in a variety of academic subjects, ranging from statistics to literature, have been offered by universities across America. Even Ivy League colleges have opened their doors to anyone with access to the Internet. Although these classes don’t yet contribute to any actual college credit or a degree, they remain popular nonetheless with over 1.7 million students enrolled through websites like Coursera that offer these online programs. This new trend in education through online courses raises issues regarding the actual worth a college degree has to offer for students and the role a professor plays in a traditional university setting. And colleges aren’t the only ones who have turned to online courses for students that replace the previous conventional classroom. The new

movement is catching on in high schools as online classes are being offered through private websites or through the school districts for a price. MCPS offers a variety of online classes, but most of them are elective courses like Health and Foundations of Technology that students usually take last minute in order to graduate. Select AP courses are also available depending what each school has to offer. Students can contact their counselors to find what their school has regarding APs. MCPS also requires a payment to complete these classes, sometimes upwards of $500. Although MCPS does not offer enough online courses for students to graduate without attending an actual school, students could turn to private institutions for that. These online high schools are much like ones off the web. Prospective students can choose both public or private schooling with many courses available and most often an accredited high school diploma. The George Washington University Online High School (GWUOHS) is a private online school that has a program for students to earn their diploma. To pay for books, teachers, counselors and a prestigious name, the tuition is priced at $10,500 for a full academic year.

by Alyssa Miller ‘13 When Superintendent Joshua Starr replaced Jerry Weast, he wasted no time in implementing “Curriculum 2.0.” The new curriculum is designed to better tailor education to students’ needs by providing them with a basic framework of information at a younger age. Now that Starr is well into his term, Curriculum 2.0 is influencing all sides of MCPS education. According to the MCPS website, Curriculum 2.0 aims to “[build] a stronger foundation at the elementary level.” To do this, it intends to engage students in subjects other than just mathematics and reading (the two “core” subjects under the No Child Left Behind Act). The curriculum was developed based on “internationally-driven standards,” meaning that they are intended to prepare students to be successful in the world. MCPS has also been utilizing a $5 million Department of Education grant to establish the curriculum. “One of the biggest differences is addition of what we call ‘thinking and academic success skills,’ or ‘TASS,’” said Niki Hazel, supervisor of the Elementary Integrated Curriculum at MCPS. According to Hazel, before the curriculum was written, extensive research was done to discover what set high-scoring students apart from oth-

ers. Those students were found to be strong critical thinkers who were able to analyze information, were collaborative, and were persistent and didn’t give up when working. Hazel says that the new curriculum is very different from the 2000 model curriculum MCPS was using previously. “It is really about a lot of open-ended questions, it’s about explaining your thinking, showing that you understand [a topic] in two or three different ways,” said Hazel. A major change in Curriculum 2.0 involves reshaping the basic report cards that have been used for decades. The new cards focus on how a given child is meeting grade-level standards for all subjects. Subjects are broken down into specific categories within each academic area, and students are awarded one of three letters—P, I or N, rather than the traditional A, B, C, D, E grades. P indicates that a child is proficient, while I means they are in progress and if a child recieves an N, it means they have not met standards. Additionally, students are graded based on “Learning Skills,” awarded a grade of DEM to indicate that they are properly demonstrating necessary skills, PRG to indicate that they are making progress, or an N for “Not yet evident.” The changes in learning, however,

Public schooling also exists in online education with free classes students can take towards their graduation requirments. Insight Schools is a website that offers free programs just like any public school would and is fully accredited. These public institutions are funded by the state and put under the same state guidelines as offline high schools. When it comes to high school education, most students choose to go to traditional high schools but many educational institutions, like the websites that offer the classes, believe some students thrive with an online education. They think if these students are constantly moving locations or have trouble relating to a traditional school setting, these new online courses might be just what they need to graduate With the internet, endless possibilities exist for aspiring students of all ages around the world. With these new innovations, education is becoming more accessible to people of all needs through online support, providing opportunities for everyone, regardless of wealth, to gain knowledge which is a gift many consider priceless. *Hierholzer is currently enrolled in Journalism.

aren’t expected to stop after the elementary school years. One of the goals of Curriculum 2.0 is to prepare students for more rigorous courses in high school. The new curriculum was designed to help high school students meet the goals of the Common Core standards, “a set of shared goals and expectations for what students should understand and be able to do … in order to be prepared for success in college and the workplace,” according to marylandpublicschools.org. Hazel says “The biggest change has been in [Common Core subjects] reading, writing and mathematics, making sure there’s that depth and understanding.” The new curriculum is largely based on teaching students to apply what they learn in school to the real world. “Students will have a stronger understanding of mathematics … of the skills and concepts,” said Hazel. “We’ve completely aligned ourselves with Common Core where we can.”

The Warrior•Opinions December 13, 2012

Staff Editorial:

In Our Opinion

APs c h should u m w o H ? our GPA affect y

Are AP cla all of th sses worth e work?

Do you tak braggin e APs for g rights ?

ou s help y Will AP llege? co get into

In 2012, MCPS students took 32,974 AP exams, the most exams taken during any year in county history, and 75 percent of those exams were scored a three or higher. Superintendent Joshua Starr celebrated the county’s success, stating, “AP is a strong indicator of readiness for college-level work, and it is clear that MCPS is a leader across the state and the nation in AP participation and success. We must continue to provide all of our students with access to meaningful, relevant classes that prepare them for success in college and beyond.” School systems, like MCPS, aim to have as many students as possible in the offered AP courses, but it has become less about taking “meaningful, relevant classes” and more about the AP designation. Overall, students have developed a mindset that makes them feel obliged to take AP classes. They are rewarded with a higher weighted GPA, as well as a sense of security that they are ensuring a college acceptance because of their course load. While AP classes are available for those who truly want to learn the skills and materials of a given subject, students have conflicted motivations with outward influences. High schools push students to take AP classes, which, in conjunction with pressure from peers, has students signing up for these classes for the wrong reasons. In many cases, it seems as though students are taking AP classes only for appearance’ sake because AP classes “look better” than on-level or even honors classes. Students also neglect the many elective choices available; filling their schedules with AP classes, some of which

they ultimately do not want to take. As this perspective developed, the real purpose of AP classes—to build knowledge and go more in-depth on a topic—was lost in translation. Having more knowledge got replaced by “taking more APs.” Colleges and universities contribute to this state of mind, thrusting students into an arms race of who can have the most challenging academic schedule. They pressure students to take the most rigorous courses in order to beat out everyone they compete with for acceptance. As students reach the point in their high school career where they must begin to apply to college, the pressure to take harder classes increases. They become more motivated by being accepted into college than by their own academic interests. The point of school is to provide kids with an education. With three levels of classes offered in some courses, though not all, students should choose which one is right for them. One way to minimize the current attitude towards AP classes is to take away the extra point on the GPA scale by getting rid of the weighted GPA in MCPS. That way, students will challenge themselves because they want to, not because it will boost their GPA and give them a supposed “leg-up” for college applications. Without the extra point on the GPA scale, the value of the course is returned to the content, rather than the letter grade. Superintendent Starr should inspire this change. With it, we would hope that students will again be motivated to absorb and appreciate the education actually given to them, instead of worrying about how it will read off of their transcripts.

Our Modern-Day Gladiators

2012 NFL Season: -200 concussions -3000 injuries

Warrior

the

ublished six times a year, The Warrior serves as Sherwood High School’s premier news source. Over the decades, it has collected numerous state and national honors in recognition of the publication’s superior content and design. With a staff of 31 students and one advisor, The Warrior works to keep the Sherwood community apprised of local and national events. All opinions articles represent the viewpoint of the writer. The unsigned staff editorials solely represent the opinions of the newspaper staff. These articles do not necessarily represent the views of Sherwood High School. The Warrior welcomes Letters to the editor of 250 words or less. They may be submitted to room C268 or emailed to thewarrioronline.shs@gmail.com. Letters must be signed, and all content received by the newspaper is subject to editing. The Warrior staff invites feedback and corrections to printed inaccuracies. The Warrior reserves the right to refuse advertisements.

Staff Executive Editor .................................................. Leah Schroeder ‘13 Print Managing Editors ............................................ Diana McDermott ‘13 Robel Wondimu ‘13 News Editors ......................................................... Jessica Carrera ‘13 Mandy Stussman ‘14 Vicky Florian ‘14 Lifestyle Editor ........................................................... Features Editors ...................................................... Mary Macrae ‘14 Connor Martin ‘13 Humor Editors ...................................................... Andrew Wasik ‘13 Cal Wilson ‘14 Spotlight Editor ................................................ Sydney Morrison ‘13 Opinions Editors ................................................. Melissa Fajardo ‘13 Whitney Marie Halaby ‘14 Wondering Warrior Editor....................................... Jenni Kenel ‘14 O’Donnell ‘13 Entertainment Editors ................................ Michaela Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada ‘13 Sports Editors ...................................................... Jamie Langbein ‘13 Joey Lavoie ‘14 Online Managing Content Editor .................................. Michael Natelli ‘14 Managing Technical Editor .................................... Shaan Verma ‘13 Page Editors ........................................................... Brendan Cudd ‘14 Joy Zhang ‘14 Content and Copy Managing Content Director ...................................... Alex Porter ‘13 Content and Copy Editors ............................. Briana Applewhite ‘13 Steffi Carrera ‘14 Alyssa Miller ‘13 Nick Mourtoupalas ‘13 Evan Schwartz ‘13 Managing Photographers ....................................... Bridget Cook ‘14 Taylor Fernandes ‘14 Pollster ............................................................. Katie Mercogliano ‘14 Advisor ............................................................................... Peter Huck

cartoon by Mandy Stussman ‘14

The Warrior•Opinions December 13, 2012

Backspace the Cell Phone Policy by Taylor Fernandes ‘14 Every year it feels like the school adjusts the cell phone policy to try and stop students from using them during class, yet students disregard the policy and fit in a quick text message while the teacher has his or her back to the class. In the student agenda book, the policy states “1st offenseteacher warning, 2nd offenseteacher confiscation, and 3rd offense- security confiscation.” While some teachers take cell phones the first time they see

them, others let students have a couple of warnings beforehand. Instead of the endless cycle of rewording a failed policy at the start of every school year, the school should get rid of a cell phone policy all together and let the teacher decide the rules for his or her classroom. On the first day of school, instead of reading the required cell phone policy rules, it would be much more valuable for the students to hear actual consequences that are going to happen in each of their classrooms. Some teachers are completely against students using

cell phones, even during free time. Then there are others who have even mentioned out loud that if it were not for the fear of an administrator walking in they would allow students to be on their phones. Teachers have different classroom rules, and that shouldn’t be any different when it comes to cell phones. The cell phone policy is useless since teachers and students almost universally ignore it. Much like everything else that goes on in the classroom, it should be up to the teacher whether or not cell phones can be used.

Teens Consuming Too Much Sugar by Maya Ben-Yosef ‘15 On average, Americans consume 40 gallons of sugary soda each year, and the average teenager drinks 760 cans of soda per year. The average person of any age drinks more than 500 cans of soft drinks per year. After drinking a 16 ounce soft drink, 12 teaspoons of sugar begin to work its way through the body. It raises the insulin level, which inhibits the release of growth hormones. Insulin promotes the storage of fat, so that when eating sugar, the consumer is making way for rapid weight gain. Even with all of the discussion in the media about healthy versus unhealthy food, Americans continue to make the wrong choice in what they eat and drink. In September 2012, the New York City Board of Health, which is appointed by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, approved the law banning super-sized drinks over 16 ounces sold in food-service

establishments. Most of these super-sized drinks are soda, so the purpose of the law is to prevent people from drinking these unhealthy beverages in large quantities. Bloomberg made the right decision in pushing this law for the citizens of New York City. It is time to take a stand and save Americans from obesity and other health problems. New York City should be just the beginning; it is time that other cities, states and even countries follow in New York City’s footsteps and promote this healthy change. We need to change many Americans’ outlook on life. Fewer sugary drinks result in healthier habits and more active Americans because they will have more energy and nothing to slow them down. It is the responsibility of our leaders to make sometimes unpopular decisions for the good of society. As noted in an October 12 Associated Press article, “For someone who drinks a soda ev-

ery day, for example, downing a 16-ounce Coke instead of a 20-ounce one trims 14,600 calories a year, or the equivalent of 70 Hershey bars.” In the same article, Bloomberg said, “it’s time to face the facts: Obesity is one of America’s most deadly problems, and sugary beverages are a leading cause of it.” The soda industry is fighting hard against this law because it could impact their booming business by reducing the amount of drinks they sell. It does not think that there needs to be a law telling people how to take care of their own health. However, the soda industry’s emphasis on personal choice rings hollow compared to beverage companies’ real concern about the law’s negative impact on profits. For decades, the shady industry has made billions of dollars at the expense of Americans’ health.

Ben-Yosef is currently enrolled in Journalism.

Finally Part of a Class I’m Proud of by Sydney Morrison ‘13

I strongly believe that getting a job in high school is one of the smartest things a teenager can do. Although I have only begun waitressing at Ledo Pizza this past March, it has already greatly impacted my life and the way I perceive the world. While high school has been fun, I wanted something more; more than the petty dramas that fill the halls and the page turning, lecture based curriculum I’ve dealt with for too many years. Last year I thought to myself, “I’m getting ready for college, and I’m not prepared.” I didn’t know how to handle lots of people or be professional in a workplace. I didn’t know what life was really like. So, I stopped watching television, stopped over-studying for everything, and got myself a job. Being part of the working class is ten times better than being part of the Class of 2013. No offense guys, but when I walk into work I am finally surrounded by people who want to be where they are. I am also pulled out of

the too structured, too orderly world that is education and thrust into the real world. Working is actually similar to schooling, in the sense that it’s highly demanding, a constant attempt to please people. But it’s also extraordinarily different. I have learned so many useful skills that I would’ve never picked up sitting in school. My communication skills have improved because I’m dealing with different kinds of people all day long. I deal with angry people in the restaurant, quiet people over the phone and demanding people every day. Seeing the same people in high school for four years makes you forget what it’s like to meet new people with unexpected personalities. Now I’m very aware of the characters I may have to deal with in the future (and how patient I might have to be with many of them). Since I began working at Ledo Pizza, I think of everything as unexpected. Because of this, I always perform my best. You never know what it could mean, or who could be watching. Thanks to work, I know how to handle a high stress

TO THE POINT Private Schools Not Worth Cost by Ryan Deal ‘16 For many, there is a certain glamour about attending private schools, part of which is the notion that private schooling will increase one’s chances for success. Although there is a common perception that private schools offer a better education than public schools, a new study disproves that. The study, conducted by the Center for Education Policy (CEP), showed that achievement scores on reading, math, science and history were the same, the likelihood of students attending college was the same, and the satisfaction of occupation was the same. Parents, whether well off or not, continue to spend thousands upon thousands for private schooling even when it seems that it does not really make a difference in the long run. With all of the money that parents must dish out on private-school tuition, they should consider if private schooling is really worth it. Although parents will send their children to private schools for other reasons (religion, special needs, sport scholarships), they should not be so quick as to put their child there for educational purposes, because public school is just as good of a way to go.

*Deal is currently enrolled in Journalism.

Even Kindergarteners Can Do It by Stacey Wells ‘15 When students first start kindergarten, the first thing they learn how to do is compromise. For example, if you wanted to paint but your friend wanted to play with action figures, you would compromise and end up doing some of both. It is expected that one carries this skill all the way through adulthood. However, the most powerful people in our country cannot do this one simple thing. Congressmen have been arguing and debating forever about the fiscal cliff. If they cannot compromise soon, then our country will go over the fiscal cliff, which would mean drastic tax increases and spending cuts. They would send the United States back into a recession. Congress needs to take a lesson from kindergarteners and learn how to compromise ... and fast.

*Wells is currently enrolled in Journalism.

Abortion Is The New ‘A Word’ by Mandy Stussman ’14

My Take situation. Doing hours of fastpaced work has become a breeze, something that the cyclical 45 minute class periods will never teach you. Get a job. It’s my only advice. Because sitting on your butt in school just doesn’t allow you to experience what the real world actually demands.

Forty-seven percent of teens in the United States have sex before leaving high school, according to the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance of 2011. Likewise, about seven percent of teens on average become pregnant. Teens are having sex. They get pregnant. We can look the other way, pretend it’s not true all we want. But the data is there. Reality cannot be ignored. In my health class, during the Family Life and Human Sexuality unit, a student inquired about abortion out of curiosity. My teacher’s face flushed and told us she was required by the school board not to talk about it. She was forbidden to even utter the word. Regardless of personal opinions, abortion is a real, legal option. Information is information. How can the school deny students the right to knowledge and answers? They wish to keep us in a cloud of ignorance, safe from that nasty, evil word. That forbidden word. Pretend all teens are abstinent. Pretend the truth does not exist.

The Warrior•Opinions

December 13, 2012

THE GRADES ARE IN: Grades need to update faster

How do

YOU

feel about Edline?

“

Edline promotes more teacher-student conversations because students can directly contact their teachers about their grades. -Omo Ikheloa ‘13

”

“

It’s only effective if the teachers put in the assignments regularly. -Quinn Pettenati ‘13

”

-Shannon Berkheimer ‘14

”

see how the grade on the test has affected their overall grade in the class. With a policy like this, students can see what they need to work on or if they need to get extra help before a test. Unless there is transparency with the grades teachers give, students won’t know how they are doing in the class. This can be an even bigger problem for seniors, whose grades are what stand between them and college acceptance. They need to be invested in every detail of their grade and possible mistakes; so that if there is a problem, it can be fixed as soon as possible. What Edline needs is a boost. Why not go ahead and create a policy for the teachers and administrators? Students would acquire a better understanding of how certain assignments are affecting their grade, and how they could be proactive about it.

Whitt is currently enrolled in Journalism.

use of the site’s resources

“

I think it would be helpful if every homework and classwork assignment was on Edline. -Jordan Larsen ‘13

Participating in extra-curricular activities, babysitting, doing chores, working and making time for friends can be difficult, especially when homework is thrown into the mix. When students work hard to keep up with all of their responsibilities, it becomes stressful to log into their Edline account and find that there are no grades entered for the math homework that they turned in, or for the English essay that was submitted over a week ago. It is possible that teachers are equally as stressed as the students, and are trying as hard as they can to keep each student’s grades updated, but hard working students who check their Edline accounts frequently expect it to be updated within a reasonable timeframe. It is the students’ responsibility to habitually check their grades. It is the teachers’ job to have them updated.

Many students at Sherwood work hard, accept rigor and excel to be the best that they can be. Therefore, they deserve to have a reliable resource to access information about their grades. A mandatory grading policy needs to be established to make Edline more structured, organized and up to date. This grading policy will contain specific, yet reasonable, deadlines for grading different subjects and assignments. Assignments that are collected for completion, such as math homework, should be updated into Edline within 48 hours. A paragraph assignment for an English class should be posted in Edline within 72 hours, and an essay should be graded within one week. Quizzes should be graded within two days so that the student has plenty of time to prepare for an upcoming test or to retake the quiz, if possible. Tests need to be graded as quickly as possible in order for students to be able to

Teachers are not making good

Teachers should update Edline with Powerpoints in case people miss school.

“

by Haley Whitt ‘15

by Jackie Kim ‘15 Almost every student at one point has forgotten to write down their homework and has no idea what they have to do when they get home. When this happens, most students rely on Edline to get the information they missed. Teachers should be constantly updating Edline to keep students informed about assignments, tests and lesson plans. Edline has become a great resource to teachers and students. Students can receive updates on their grades, assignments and upcoming test dates. Teachers can post notes and helpful links. Edline is especially beneficial to students when they are absent. They are able to log into their accounts and see everything they had missed and can complete it in time. Edline can also be used as a better way for teachers, students and parents to communicate with one another. Teachers

have a better ability to reach out to students and make sure they know what is going on in class. Through Edline, students can also reach out to their teachers if they have questions or need help from them. Also, parents can easily communicate with their child’s teachers through the email feature and be informed about their child’s grades and assignments. Although Edline is capable of all these great possibilities, teachers are not making good use of this resources. Some don’t update anything other than grades, which are taken directly from their grade books. At minimum, teachers should be expected to update Edline with homework assignments and upcoming quizzes and tests for students. From grading hundreds of papers to planning lessons, teachers have a lot of responsibilities and work they need to do. Edline should become just as important and necessary as these tasks.

Teachers that use and update it daily with assignments, grades and notes might possibly see better results from their students. By using the resources provided to them by Edline, more students can complete their assignments, study more efficiently and overall be informed about their classes. Sherwood should make updating Edline regularly a mandatory task for all teachers. For those teachers that have trouble with using Edline, special training can be used to help them. However, if this training is not available, those teachers who struggle with Edline can get help from their fellow coworkers. Teachers are supposed to be helpful to students, therefore it is necessary that they make a good use of Edline. New technology is everywhere these days, and it is time we take advantage of it.

Kim is currently enrolled in Journalism.

The Warrior•Wondering Warrior 17

December 13, 2012

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock. tick.

Countdown to the

e s p y l a c o Ap

The Mayan Long Count calendar purportedly marked December 21, 2012 as the end of the era and stated that the world would reset to zero and end humanity.

What do you want to do before you die? “Climb Mount Everest because it looks fun.” -Claire O’Connell ‘16

“Run for President!!” -Matthew Sardone ‘14

if you could save one food to eat, what would it be? “Multivitamins-Got to get those nutrients in! Seaweed just won’t suffice.” -Dino Zagami ‘14 “Bacon, it is the source of all happiness.” -Asia Prather ‘16 “Apples because they are amazing.” -Michelle Tolson ‘15

2 1 . 1 2 12.

“To visit the rest of my family in China.” -Jiayi Xuan ‘13

Do you think that the world will end on December 21? 87% of students said no. 13% of students said yes. *127 students surveyed

What do you want to be remembered for? “Two words. Twitter legend.” -Jake Edwards ‘14 “Being the sexiest woman alive and Justin Beiber’s girlfriend.” -Lauren Alexander ‘16 “For being the girl that died in 2012.” -Natalee Nalls ‘15

8 days left...

*Compiled by Katie Mercogliano ‘14

The Warrior•Entertainment December 13, 2012

Upcoming Concerts The Killers : Patriot Center - December 18 Ellie Goulding : The Fillmore - January 20 Green Day : Patriot Center - January 21 Fun. : DAR Constitution Hall - January 31

Shows ‘N’ Shindigs Upcoming Albums

T.I. : Trouble Man: Heavy is the Head - December 18

Ashanti : Braveheart - January 29 Tim McGraw : Two Lanes of Freedom - February 5 50 Cent : Street King Immortal - February 26

Student Fully Devoted to Music and Performing by Vicky Florian ‘14 Junior Nick Cameron is committed, to say the least. Besides having played prominent roles in three school musicals, having solos in Rock ‘n’ Roll since freshman year, and participating in both the Chamber’s Choir and Jazz Band, Cameron is a member of two bands outside of school. At the age of five, Cameron landed his first role in a musical. “Looking back on it I always had a musical mind when I was a kid,” said Cameron. “I always had music running through my head, and I always wanted to be the ‘rock star.’” His family largely influenced his love for music and performance. His mother used to be a stage manager for the Baltimore Opera Company, his father always has music playing around the house and his two older siblings were involved in theater as well. Musically gifted Cameron plays seven instruments including bass, electric and upright, the guitar, viola, harmonica, drums, piano, recorder and his voice, which he says is his “main instrument.” In the past two years, Cameron’s Rock ‘n’ Roll solos have included “Hair,” “We Are the Champions” and “Today.” He has played prominent roles in school musicals each year of his high school career. Freshman year he played the villain, Jud, in “Oklahoma.” His sophomore year he played the two male

lead parts of Adam and Noah in “Children of Eden,” and this year he played the gambler Sky Masterson in “Guys and Dolls.” Outside of school, Cameron is the leader of two bands, in which he organizes gigs and practices. Though he plays guitar in one and bass in the other, he is the lead vocalist in both. Almost half of Cameron’s schedule involves music classes, which allows him a lot of time to pursue music during the school day. “I try to make sure that all of my time … is devoted to either school, extracurriculars, music or sleep so that none of my time is wasted,” said Cameron. “I would be happy with just about any career in music, but my dream would be as a rock musician in live performance and in the studio. It wouldn’t even feel like a career to me, it would feel like play time all the time.” In college, Cameron plans to major in music with a double concentration in music technology and voice, as well as minoring in physics as “something to fall back on.” Although Cameron enjoys a wide range of music, his favorite genre is Classic Rock. Cream and The Beatles are tied for his favorite band, though he has a “penchant” for Mumford and Sons. “There’s something about singing that is beyond an instrument or acting,” said Cameron. “It combines words and notes, so it’s like the best of both worlds.”

Courtesy of Bill Evans

Junior Nick Cameron performing “Today” from last year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll production at the Fillmore in May.

The Warrior•Entertainment December 13, 2012

Video Game Ratings by Shaan Verma ‘13

90s Renaissance Has Us Kickin’ It Old School This intrepid reporter sees signs of a vivid 90s flashback. by Evan Schwartz ‘13 We are currently in the midst of a 90s Renaissance, and this phenomenon, like an eclipse, cannot go unnoticed. Popular culture elements that were über cool in the 1990s halls of Bayside High School when Zack Morris ran supreme are now experiencing a stellar resurgence. Trends of this decade, from fashion to music, are being rocked and loved by the sweet peoples of 2012. Take a look at this blast from the past in the fashion world. Now, if you consider yourself hip at all, you are probably an avid thrifter, a thrift store shopping extraordinaire. Thrifting is not a new practice, but it has recently become a lifestyle choice for some. A great thrifter knows exactly what stores to frequent, what to look for, and is an expert at the “Noticeable spots and stains” check. Understanding the mainstream growth of thrift shopping helps explain the resurgence of clothing items that were rocked in the 90s, believed to have died in the 90s and are now (thankfully) off the chain again in 2012. Notice all of those super fly denim shirts around town? Got me thinking 90s! Denim on denim is always a risky fashion choice, but if you understand that the shades can’t be the same, then you are not to fret, because you surely look fly! How about bandanas? A simple accessory that both genders could pull off in the 90s is coming back as a fashion statement with a dope Rosie the Riveter twist that says, “Yeah look at me; I know what’s bangin’ and it’s this tight bandana!” But people in the 90s looked totally fresh head to toe, so those bringing back the bandana are also rocking the “Doc” Martens or similar knockoffs. Grab a pair of these kicks and you gain so much cred you won’t know what

to do with yourself. Shield your eyes for this next throwback that’s making a bomb return. Neon. We’re not talking Happiness shirts or those overworn Bethany Beach/Ocean City shirts. We mean windbreakers (the epitome of all things wicked cool), backwards snap-back caps (the brighter the better) and shorts (consult the lacrosse team). As you bask in the 90s realness you just took in, we’ll take a look at the dope beats that are being brought back in 2012 that will have you yelling, “CHACHING!” One of the most rad bands to get jiggy to in the 90s was obviously No Doubt. The band encompassed all things teenage-angst in their music and inspired a decade of Rastawear and a grunge-chic, young and bougie Gwen Stefani look. Their last album, released in 2000, was followed by an indefinite hiatus that left fans thinking they were cashed, but they burst back onto the scene this year with a new album, “Settle Down,” that offers a hella real sound that has us nostalgic for the 90s. Another 90s music resurrection is the boy band, and not just any boy band, but the perfect boy band. Groups like ‘N Sync and the Backstreet Boys stole the hearts of teenage girls in the 90s for a reason. They had perfected the boy band formula that states the group must consist of five (one for every preference) post-pubescent, but not too old looking, guys that include the bad boy, a heartthrob, a sensitive one, a big brother type, and then the one that makes you wonder why he is in the group. For those who thought this perfected marvel ended with 98 Degrees, 2012 gave us One Direction. Snap! This group is a carbon copy of the 90s boy bands that topped the charts. That’s all the time we have for now, folks! Peace out!

Score: 3.5 / 5 A game that is about exactly what the title says. The goal of “Don’t Starve” is to survive as long as possible with dwindling materials and resources, while monsters attack at every corner. The art style is very distinct, like a dark, moody, hand-drawn sketch. The fact that the game is dark colored adds to the bleak feeling of knowing that there is an eventual end to the player’s life. The game takes its own unique view on surviving that is unlike other games in the genre: a player cannot survive an unlimited amount of time. This major difference is what draws players to in. “Don’t Starve” offers an entirely different way to play. The game is a bit glitchy at times, but it is in pre-release mode and should be fixed relatively quickly.

Score: 4 / 5

“Assassin’s Creed III,” ends the tale of Desmond as he searches his ancestors memories to try to save the world from the 2012 apocalypse. The story is completely immersive as it effectively chronicles both Desmond and his Native American ancestor Connor’s adventures. The story, filled with gameplay of sneaking through Revolutionary America, battling ships on the high seas and aiding historic figures at key moments in the revolution, gives a fresh, new feel to the franchise while still maintaining the core essence and elements of “Assassin’s Creed” gameplay, such as free-running, combat and a fluid story that fans enjoy.

Score: 4 / 5 “The Unfinished Swan” is a radically different game than one would expect. The story follows a boy named Monroe after his mother died. He awakes one night to find the swan in one of his mother’s unfinished paintings mysteriously missing. Curiosity getting the better of him, Monroe follows the swan through the painting into a completely white landscape. The player, as Monroe, must fling paint in order to find his way through the environment. The puzzles found throughout the landscape produce variety and flow which make the player think outside of the box while still staying within the confines of the game’s alluring story. In the end, “The Unfinished Swan” provides a much needed break from the mainstream, fast-paced shooters that come out every year, and gives the player an entirely new experience.

Score: 5 / 5 Set four years after Master Chief saved the universe from the death machine called the Halo Array, “Halo 4” lives up to the legend of previous titles. The story finds Master Chief stranded in space and follows him on his new journey. The game is clearly different from its predecessors, but that is what makes it distinctly unique. There is an entirely new feel to the story because of the added interactivity and new challenges that players face. Apart from the story, the multiplayer is endlessly entertaining as a new ranking system has been implemented. This, along with new weapons, maps and character upgrades, enhances the flow of the gameplay while still maintaining the feel of Halo.

The Warrior•Entertainment December 13, 2012

Will New SNL Cast Ever Get It Right? by Melissa Fajardo ‘13 For those born in the late 90s, we grew up watching “Saturday Night Live” when the show had some of its golden members like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. But just like the U.S. economy, the show goes boom and bust every so often. The comedy sketch show has produced over 731 episodes since its NBC debut on October 11, 1975 and has developed huge TV and movie stars. Each episode has a musical guest as well as a celebrity guest who performs sketches with the cast that parody contemporary culture and politics. This format remains the same even in its 38th season, making it one of the longest running network television programs. The show’s first season became an instant hit with cast members like Chevy Chase who pioneered the Weekend Update skit and John Belushi who later starred in “The Blues Brothers” with fellow SNL cast member Dan Aykroyd. The cast members, who were mostly upcoming and unknown comics, quickly became relevant. Many cast members, including original executive producer Lorne Michaels, decided to leave the show in pursuit of other career opportunities in the early 80s. The cast was rejuvenated with new rising stars, such as Eddie Murphy, who made his debut in 1980 at 19 years old. Michaels returned to the show in the mid-80s and favored unknown talent over established comedians. After a few shaky seasons, the show began to pick up speed with new powerhouses Will Ferrell and Jimmy Fallon in the late 90s. They were followed by familiar members like Tina Fey,

Maya Rudolph, Amy Poehler, Andy Samberg and Kristen Wiig, all of whom maintain steady and successful careers today. The current season began on September 15 with high energy and a mix of old skits as well as new refreshing material. Even without the return of Samberg and Wiig, the cast is able to deliver the humor the American people have been waiting for. However, some members seem to show no growth from the last season. Although Jay Pharoah and Vanessa Bayer are considered current repertory players on the cast, there’s still something about them that doesn’t quite fill the enormous shoes of their predecessors. Pharoah specializes in uncomfortably perfect impressions of Obama and Jay-Z, but what else can he do? It seems like the writers hand him the same role over and over again with the same lackluster material that does not allow viewers to connect with him. Bayer, on the other hand, is given many opportunities to show her range but she executes each role in the same manner for every skit: with a plastered look on her face and an irksome smile that appears at the wrong times. She seems overly rehearsed and lacks the natural pauses comedians genrally incorporate into their material. In general, the writing this season has been funny. However, it’s glaringly obvious when the quality of some skits isn’t as good as others and the writers simply run out of ideas and hand them to rookie cast members. If members like Pharoah and Bayer are the future of “Saturday Night Live,” they need to start grooming them for when they become the leading members of the show.

R E V I E W S

‘Hitchcock:’ Master of Suspense by Leah Schroeder ‘13

In the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” it is simultaneously exciting and disappointing to discover the man standing behind the curtain. Walking into Sacha Gervasi’s “Hitchcock,” I feared that I would be experiencing 93 minutes of the unsatisfying unveiling of “the man behind the curtain” that is Alfred Hitchcock, but instead, Hitchcock’s movies and achievements became all the more intriguing and mysterious. From 1921 to 1976, Hitchcock directed an astounding 54 films and produced 10 seasons of his television show, “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” Over time, Hitchcock gained a reputation as the master of suspense, as a result of his pioneering many techniques used in psychological and suspense thrillers. He was also known for his twist endings, sexual undertones and careful combination of humor and suspense. Hitchcock’s brilliance was rewarded with four of his films being placed on the American Film Institute’s list of top 100 movies, an amount second only to that of Steven Spielberg. Unlike most directors, Hitchcock used himself as branding for his films, making cameo appearances and using his silhouette in profile as his trademark. Gervasi uses the drama around the making of “Psycho,” arguably Hitchcock’s most famous film, to give the audience insight on Hitchcock and what contributed to his being able to make iconic movies that so greatly changed the movie industry. Gervasi, taking a cue from the Hitchcockian style, keeps the viewer wondering how this seemingly doomed production ever

managed to achieve such tremendous success. Anthony Hopkins’ portrayal of Hitchcock is unbelievably realistic. He brings Hitchcock to life by capturing Hitchcock’s personality quirks, cadence and mannerisms. Impatient, petty and burning with intensity, Hitchcock fills the audience with awe as they watch him refuse to back down from pursuing “Psycho,” even when the story’s violence and gore prevent him from getting financial support. Little known to the public, Hitchcock’s wife, Alma Reville, played by Helen Mirren, has a major role in each of his films, editing the script, providing direction and aiding in creating the final cut. It is her opinion that ultimately mattered most to Hitchcock. Unsurprisingly, Mirren delivers in this role, channeling the persona of a passionate, organized, detail-oriented woman who put her whole self into making her husband’s movies the absolute best they could be. In many respects, Mirren steals the show. Every scene with her is brilliant and highlighted just how vital Reville was to every aspect of Hitchcock’s life. It was her suggestion to add the famous score that is now so closely connected to the iconic shower scene in “Psycho.” I doubt that this movie will bring to Gervasi what was denied to Hitchcock, a validation of his worth in the form of an Academy Award for Best Director. That said, it gave me a deeper understanding of the motivations and struggles of a man that directed some of my favorite movies. Ultimately, he was a flawed, insecure but brilliant man, who gave us some of the most fascinating and provocative movies of all time.

Guys and Dolls On November 15, 16 and 17, Sherwood performed “Guys and Dolls,” a musical about a group of gamblers in 1940s New York. The show centers around Nathan Detroit who bets fellow gambler Sky Masterson he can’t take saint-like missionary Sarah Brown on a date to Havana. The musical follows the messy relationship drama of Detroit and his overly attached fiancé of 14 years, Adelaide and Masterson and Brown’s new relationship.

Top right: Adelaide (junior Andi Hopkins) sings about how Nathan (senior Connor Martin) never keeps his promises.

Courtesy of Andrew Dodge

Bottom left: The gamblers line up to attend Nathan Detroit’s floating craps game. Bottom right: General Cartwright (senior Alex Boscolo) tells Sarah Brown (senior Alyssa Miller) to close the mission.

Courtesy of Andrew Dodge

The Warrior•Sports December 13, 2012

And the Streak Goes to 57 by Andrew Wasik ‘13

The Lady Warriors defeated a tough Arundel team 3-0 thus completing a “three-peat” of state championships. Over the past three seasons the volleyball team has gone an incredible 57-0 under head coach Brian McCarty. Senior Alex Holston, who had a game-high 25 kills, has led the way the past three years and continued her strong leadership throughout the championship game played on November 19 at Ritchie Coliseum. “It feels really good just knowing that all of our hard work and dedication has paid off and we have finally completed our goal of winning the state championship again,” said Holston. Holston was named the team’s Most Valuable Player for the 2012 season, recording 365 kills, 153 digs and 47 blocks. Holsten led the team in all three categories. Towards the end of the first set, the Lady Warriors were down 25-24 to Arundel, a team that has had their playoff hopes abrubtly halted by Sherwood the past two years. On the brink of losing the first set, a clutch kill by Holston tied up the score and the team rallied to take the next two points to win the critical first set 27-25. The demoralizing turn-

photo courtesy of Gary Peters

The Lady Warriors celebrate their third consecutive state championship after another 3-0 win over Arundel. around seemed to affect the Arundel girls and they were never able to recover, losing the next two sets 25-14 and 25-13. In the third set, the Arundel girls took a quick lead but senior Katie Russell

stepped up and had two big kills to turn the momentum back in the Lady Warriors’ favor. “I just wanted to do what I could to help my team, I just really wanted to win,” said Russell.

“Arundel was a good team and I just wanted to step it up.” The team had more pressure this season to win it all than they ever have before. They were picked early on as the season fa-

vorites and are known around the state as a powerhouse after having gone undefeated the past two seasons and winning states for what is now the third time in a row. “We put a lot of pressure on our younger girls, telling them that we had done it the two years before and now it’s our mission to three-peat,” said Holston. After losing a few starters from last year, the team needed other players to step up and they did so in a big way. Senior Christy Mempin, who had a few clutch serves in all the game, was a crucial part of the team all season. “Last year I was happy to win, but this year it felt even better because now I could finally play with the starters. I was crying tears of joy at the end,” said Mempin. The Lady Warriors suffered a loss when senior Dominique Parker injured her ankle towards the end of the season and was unable to play. Parker was a large part of the team this season, recording 41 kills, nine digs and five blocks. But Parker still celebrated on the court with her team after the win and was able to go out with the other captains to receive the trophy. “It feels amazing,” she said. “Alex and I have been talking about it since the summer and we decided that we had to do it again or we couldn’t show our faces around the school. There was no not-win option.”

Young Team with New Coach and Style by Hunter Moore ‘14 Former JV coach Kenny Prather has moved up to coach girls’ varsity basketball, replacing Sandi Williams after her 10-year tenure coaching the Lady Warriors. In addition to coaching JV, Prather coaches over 100 games a year with a variety of other teams in the off season. Prather has high hopes for the future of the program and believes he can impact the girls in an exciting way. “On the offensive side of the ball, we will be fast-pace, up-tempo so we will get a lot of shots up and it should be an exciting experience to watch,” said Prather. “On the defensive side, we will be more aggressive and will be getting at the ball, trying to steal the ball. In essence, our whole team will be made up of transition plays up and down the floor. It should be pretty exciting to watch.” He has proven to be successful in making the girls feel comfortable and welcome on the court. “I really like him; he’s a great coach and he really cares about us girls. Hopefully he’ll turn our program around and guide us to a state championship,” said junior Marybeth Bidwick, one of the 11 girls that Prather has previously coached. Although the team has plen-

tiful chemistry from many years of playing together, they are still a very young team. The team has only three seniors and an abundance of underclassmen, including two freshmen. The bright side of the young team is that it suggests great potential for the future, with them constantly gaining experience and getting better. Returning varsity player junior Simone Bloom is also excited to have Prather as a coach, particularly about his ability to turn them into talented players. “Coach Prather will focus on different aspects of our game which will help us turn into well-rounded and fundamentally sound basketball players,” said Bloom. In Prather’s debut game as a varsity coach, the girls fought hard but lost 36-22 to a talented Seneca Valley team with four returning starters. Sherwood lost 56-22 to Churchill to start the season 0-2 but will work hard to make corrections and adjustments. “We’re young, it’s going take us three or four more games to get the ball rolling,” said Prather. “Pretty soon we will be up to varsity level and in about five games, I expect us to go on a winning streak.”

Moore is currently enrolled in Journalism.

Connor Ganey ‘16

Coach Kenny Prather gives his team quick instruction and some feedback durinig a timeout. The Warriors fought hard but went on to lose to a talented Seneca Valley 36-22 on opening night.

The Warrior•Sports

December 13, 2012

Girls’ Swim Team Led by Division 1 Recruits by Tom Lee ‘14 Swim Coach Brendan Lees called out the times of the final swim of the pre-season practice on Tuesday, December 4, and sent his swimmers to the locker-rooms huffing for air. After swimming some 5,000 yards, equivalent to 200 lengths of the pool, everyone still had a whole day of school left after the early morning practice that began at 5. Welcome to the world of swimming. This is not the most glamorous or eye-popping of sports, but certainly one of the most difficult, demanding and tiring. The long and sometimes tedious practices do lead to excitement at meets when swimmers step up to blocks to glide through the water as fast as they can. The sport is a prime example of where you do only as well as you’ve prepared. “This year’s going to be an exciting one for our girls’ team. We have a solid team with a lot of depth and their times will be a reflection of all their hard work and dedication,” said Lees. Last year, the Lady Warriors placed 1st in their division, 1st at regionals and 3rd in the county overall. With strong relays and a lot of potential to rack up points in

individual events, the girls’ team expects to finish at least in the top three at the Washington Metro Interscholastic Swimming and Diving Championship (Metros), considered the most important meet of the season. The team also has a solid chance at winning its division and placing 1st at regionals again. Leading the way to match, or even surpass, last year’s successes are the three seniors this year that have committed to Division 1 schools. Kylie Sheapp pledged to Towson, while Anna Kolanowski is going to the University of Georgia and Megan Conrad to Villanova University. “I used to work so hard to make myself better and get into college but now it’s great to just have to focus on lowering my times as much as I can before I graduate,” said Conrad, who is a backstroke specialist and has a solid chance at winning this year’s 100 yard backstroke event at Metros. The team also expects to break the 400-freestyle relay record set back in 2008 with three of the four swimmers on that relay consisting of Kolanowski, Sheapp and Conrad. However, since a relay requires four swimmers and each swimmer can only

Tom Lee ‘14

Sherwood swimmers attend a Friday afternoon practice on December 7 to prepare for a meet the next day. Both the boys’ and the girls’ team swam and lost against BCC on December 8. swim three events per meet, the college recruits still have to turn to other teammates to rack up more points. With each new season, teams tend to struggle early on as key swimmers have left due to graduation. Sherwood has lost some seniors from last year, but at the same time has an incoming class of freshman talent this

season. “We lose some people, but it’s fine because it goes both ways. We have some good freshmen so it’s balanced, to say the least,” said Kolanowski, who is a strong contender to be crowned the 200-yard freestyle champion at Metros. With freshman talent and strong seniors to rally around, the

girls’ team is hungry to build on last year’s successes. “I’m excited this year; it should be a fun one with lots of ups and not so many downs hopefully. We will see how things go,” said Sheapp, one of the team’s captains.

Lee is currently enrolled in Journalism.

College Athletic Commitments

Congratulations to the Sherwood Seniors that have commited to play a sport as of December 11, 2012: Ernest Williams III

Ernest Williams III

Megan Conrad

committed to

PICTURE

Dominique Parker Dominique Parker

Anna Kolanowski

committed to

Bucknell University

Niagara University photo courtesy of Anna Kolanowski

Anna Kolanowski committed to University of Georgia photo courtesy of Ernest Williams III

photo courtesy of Megan Conrad

Hope Gouterman Hope Gouterman committed to

Megan Conrad

Jamie Langbein ‘13

committed to

University of Maryland

Chris Voorhees

Megan McDonough

Chris Voorhees

Villanova University

committed to Bridgewater College

Maddie Doan

Megan McDonough

committed to

committed to Rider

Virginia Tech Maddie Doan

photo courtesy of the Gazette

University

Sarah Lougran Sarah Loughran

photo courtesy of Megan McDonough

photo courtesy of Chris Voorhees

Alex Holston Alex Holston

committed to

Shippensburg

University of Florida

Kylie Sheapp committed to

University

Towson University Kylie Sheapp

photo courtesy of Jim Polhemus

Jamie Langbein ‘13

photo courtesy of Kylie Sheapp

The Warrior•Sports

December 13, 2012

Bonavia Starts to See Increased Success With Football Program by Michael Natelli ‘14 After a respectable 6-4 record in their 2011 campaign, the Stormin’ Warriors improved this year by two wins in the regular season and made it to the playoffs where the team handily won its first-round playoff game against Catonsville 26-7. The season saw impressive wins over talented teams like Gaithersburg (31-14) and Northwest (35-28) as well as dominating wins over teams like neighbor schools Blake (35-0) and Magruder (41-0). The Stormin’ Warriors reestablished themselves as one of the best programs in the area, spending the entire season in the Gazette’s list of top 10 public and private schools in the county. The Stormin’ Warriors showed remarkable resilience and determination. After their only two regular season losses in the year against Quince Orchard (2812) and Damascus (23-20), the Warriors put together three and seven-game win streaks to finish their regular season with an 8-2 record. A team’s fighting spirit and toughness is often attributed to the attitude and approach of the head coach. In his first two years at the helm of the Stormin’ Warriors football team, coach Mike Bonavia has already led his boys to consecutive winning seasons, a playoff berth as well as a division title. The Warrior recently had a chance to talk with Bonavia. When you took the job here before the start of last season, what made you choose Sherwood in the first place? It was intriguing because of the tradition of Sherwood and [because of] the confidence [that the administration] gave me to come in and take over a program like this. Last year’s season went relatively well, but this year you guys reached the playoffs for the first time in your Sherwood career. What was the biggest factor in making that leap to playoff status? These kids coming back with a different focus, getting a year under their belts, understanding discipline and commitment in the offseason. And they bought into this system and [that has] made the difference. Before the season, you said that you spent the offseason “thinning” out the herd and finding your guys. What qualities, beyond your standard football abilities, do you look for in a “quality football player?” Character, commitment, teammate, family, all the traits of a kid that understands responsi-

Enthusiasm for American Sports Not Up to Par

by Joey Lavoie ‘14 photo courtesy of the Gazette

Coach Mike Bonavia, in his trademark cargo shorts, gives instructions to his players during their 62-28 loss to Westminster on November 16.

Joey Lavoie ‘14

Coach Mike Bonavia works at his desk, preparing for the 2013 off season as the Warriors look to improve on this year’s 9-3 season. bility to people, to the team. What are your final thoughts on the senior class of the 2013? I was very impressed with them. I thought that other than the way we ended our season [in a 62-28 loss against Westminster in the Divisional Semifinals], we got the most out of them. I thought they gave [it their all] and I thought that 9-3 overall was a really good record knowing that the opponents we lost to were [a combined] 35-2. Where does this set the stan-

dard for next season? Well we’re going to be a little bit younger. I don’t want to say, “rebuilding,” because these guys know how to win. So let’s see if we can continue to do what we’re doing. Rain or shine, 100 degrees or 30 degrees, you always seem to wear khaki shorts. Is that some sort of superstition? My lower body doesn’t get cold. You’ll notice that when it’s cold out my upper body is layered and prepared. But even then, you’ll see me in my shorts.

When you think of the United States of America, many things come to mind, among them being our cities, trucks, hotdogs and most importantly, our sports. The United States is second to none when it comes to athletics and sports. Since 1992, the United States has ended on top of the medal count every four years in the Summer Olympics. American athletes such as LeBron James, Landon Donovan and Kevin Durant are known around the world for their athleticism and skill. The motto in the United States not only for athletics but at anything, whether it be the arts, economy or military, is that we do not lose. We do not back down, and that is why the United States has the best athletes in the world. But when you look around the world, the United States has plenty of top-tier athletes ready to succeed, but lacks in fan support for all sports, in all sorts of games. After taking a recent trip to Europe and walking around amongst the fans and people of France for 11 days, I saw a whole new side of the sports world. France played Italy in a soccer match while I was there, and there was just a different buzz about it than one would not see in the United States for an international “friendly” (exhibition). I stayed in an Italian household in France and watched the game. It was incredible watching the enthusiasm and attention paid to the game by the family I lived with, and the fans at the stadium over in Italy

that we watched on TV. France did go on to win 2-1 but the fans in that Italian stadium were never quiet and cheered, chanted and yelled for all 90 minutes of that soccer game. The day after there was still a buzz in France about its soccer team beating a rival nation not that far away. It’s not only France, though. You can sit down at home or at a sports bar during the World Cup, or even just a friendly in Brazil, Italy, England or Spain, and will see just as much and usually more enthusiasm as seen here in the United States for any sport. European soccer fans chant and cheer for all 90 minutes of a game too. The loudest recorded volume level at a sports event was in a soccer game in Turkey, a recorded 131.76 dbA. These fans care not only about the biggest moments, but also the smallest turns of momentum. Yes, America is second to none when it comes to athletics, but is it really the best in the world? I would have to go with no. Yes, there is the Super Bowl or The Final Four, but what about those early season NBA games when Miami plays Charlotte? I guarantee that the fans are crazy even when powerhouse Spain faced meek Puerto Rico in August. Yes, American fans are loud when there is a goal in the World Cup, but they just don’t care enough from beginning to end to be crowned as the most enthusiastic sports fans on the face of this Earth.

The Warrior•Sports December 13, 2012

Basketball Reloads with Transfers This holiday season, the boys’ basketball team recieved three new transfers who are excited to make a difference on the court. by Andrew Wasik ‘13 The transfers are the talk of the season for varsity boys’ basketball. What better way to fill the gap of losing three starters from last season than to add three from other schools. Seniors Alec Wheeler and Daryl Brown, and junior Ellis Dozier are all eager to play basketball for the defending regional champion Sherwood Warriors. Dozier, who transferred from DeMatha in Hyattsville, will be playing the center position for Sherwood. “Things weren’t really working out at DeMatha, and I remember hearing how far Sherwood made it in playoffs,” said the 6’7 Dozier. “So I felt like I could come and contribute.” For most of his life, Dozier had played the forward position, but now that he is the tallest person on the team, Coach Dondrell Whitmore has made him the team’s center. “It’s not really that much of a transition, Coach knows I’m not always going to be a center in the post; he knows I can handle [the ball] pretty well and shoot pretty well. He lets me play my game,” said Dozier. Wheeler, who will be playing guard for the team, also had to adjust to public school life after spending his first three years in private schools. The senior transferred from Saint James School, a boarding school in Hagerstown. “Saint James has a top academic program and that as well as basketball was a lot of work,” said Wheeler. “So my family and I decided to try my local high school for my senior year to spend some time at home, experience public

school and be around my family for once.” Brown transferred from Watkins Mill and will be the only new transfer that will be playing his former team this season. “Yes, there will be some bad blood because I transferred, but it’s not only a personal game, I also just like winning.” The new starting point guard for the team is going from a team that hasn’t been to a state tournament since 1991 to a team that won its regional championship game last year. “I feel confident in the team, we have a lot of potential to go far,” said Brown. “We could be playing deep in March.” The team’s first game on December 7 was against Seneca Valley and turned out to be an absolute blowout with a crushing 81-20 victory for the Warriors. The team held the Screaming Eagles to under 10 points a quarter. Dozier scored 8 points, Brown had 6 and Wheeler had 5 with a few assists. The Warriors looked dominant on both offense and defense, and while Seneca Valley isn’t the biggest test in the county, the Warriors still proved that they can be an efficient and effective team. The first test of the season came against a scrappy Churchill team who the Warriors beat 48-41 in a much harder game. Wheeler proved how easily he can become one of the top players on the team, taking over late and scoring clutch baskets during an 18-12 run for the Warriors in the fourth quarter. Wheeler had a total of 19 points to lead all players and is now the leading scorer, averaging 12 points per game.

WRESTLING:

The Warriors’ Wrestling team started the season 1-1 in their first Tri-meet. They had a close loss to Poolesville 40-36, and crushed Watkins Mill 64-15. The captains of the team this year are juniors Chris Minor, Michael Macheras and Adrian Arevalo. Minor went to the counties last year as a sophomore and is expected to go again and improve on last year’s campaign. The Warriors look forward to facing Magruder and Blake on December 15 at Magruder at 1 p.m. -covered by Brendan Cudd ‘14

SWIM AND DIVE:

This swimming season should be an exciting one. The boys’ team expects to finish fifth in Division Two while the girls expect to win the division. Swimmers to watch are seniors Anna Kolanowski with her 200-yard freestyle, Megan Conrad in the 100 back, and Andrew Braker in the 50 freestyle. Freshman Morgan Hill is also expected to score many points for the team. -covered by Tom Lee ‘14

BOYS BASKETBALL:

The Warriors are up to a 2-0 record after beating a tenancious Churchill team 48-41 on December 8.This game was much more of a test than the opening game against Seneca Valley when the Warriors blew out the Screaming Eagles 81-20. Senior Alec Wheeler led the team with 19 points against Churchill. -covered by Andrew Wasik ‘13

Alec Wheeler ‘13 Transfered from: Saint James School

“Saint James has a top academic program and that as well as basketball was a lot of work. So my family and I decided to try my local high school for my senior year to spend some time at home, experience public school and be around my family for once.”

Daryl Brown ‘13 Transfered from: Watkins Mill

“Yes, there will be some bad blood because I transferred [from Watkins Mill], but it’s not only a personal game, I also just like winning.”

Ellis Dozier ‘14 Transfered from: DeMatha

“I am pretty much going to believe the whole season that we can win states. I know we have the capability to win.”

P R R E E C V & A I P E S W S

AS OF DECEMBER 10TH

TRACK:

After a successful cross country season for both the boys’ and girls’ teams, the Warriors look to carry their momentum into the indoor track season. The boys are led by seniors Robel Kebede, Vik Siberry and Alexander Shoop. The girls’ team is led by senior Lauren Paese, junior Ameerat Olatunde and sophomore twins Lauren and Tiffany Woods. The team will start the season competing at MCPS Meet #1 against other Montgomery County schools. The Warriors look forward to the Virginia Tech, Dickerson and Montgomery invitationals later in the season. “Our goals are to drop good times and marks so our individuals will qualify for regionals and continue their success on to the state championship,” said Siberry. -covered by Kyle Melnick ‘15

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL:

The girls’ varsity basketball team started off the season in a low-scoring loss to Seneca Valley. Unfortunately, one of the Lady Warriors’ starting guards, senior Maddie Doan, is out with an ankle injury. Her return will help the Warriors in future rival games against teams like Springbrook, Blake and Magruder. Sherwood also recently lost to Churchill by a score of 56-22 to start the season 0-2. -covered by Hunter Moore ‘14