The Wooster Blade, Volume XVII, Issue 13

THE WOOSTER BLADE

WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER 515 OLDMAN ROAD, WOOSTER, OH APRIL 28, 2017 VOLUME XVII, ISSUE 13

The Wooster Blade takes a behind-the-scenes look at Prom

Graphic by Evan Rice and Matt Lorentz

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 2

WCSD evaluates proposed “Principles of Practice” in order to

ON CAMPUS

Talent show raises money and entertains ESTELLE SHAYA design manager

NATE KING-SMITH co-editor-in-chief

For years, the Wooster City School District has had the mission statement of, “Inspiring world-class academic achievement.”

The District Leadership Team has recently proposed a change to this previous district philosophy that does not replace the old one, but how the district hopes achieve this stated goal; it is a new and comprehensive mission statement known as the Principles of Practice.

Jennifer Crum is the director of student services in the district, as well as a member of the DLT. “Through district surveys, equity audits, and strategic Principle discussions facilitated within our Ohio Improvement resulted in the additional Principles of Practice,” Crum said.

Cassandra Gasser, an intervention specialist at the high school, as well as a member of the district leadership team, said the DLT proposed the change because, “We realized we wanted something with more direction and that clearly explained how we reach our level of world- class academic achievement,” Gasser said. meeting this goal was outlined on a graphic organizer, which was created for the purpose of explaining and clarifying the ideas behind the Principles of Practice.

According to the organizer, “The Wooster City School District is responsible for the prevention of student failure and the growth of the whole child.”

“These principles place the ownership of failure on all

parties involved. It is saying that as teachers, we are doing everything we can to make sure students can be successful,” Gasser said.

From this primary goal, the mission statement is composed that have already existed within the district but that are newly-adopted comprehensive statement.

“THESE PRINCIPLES PLACE THE OWNERSHIP OF FAILURE ON ALL PARTIES INVOLVED. THEY ARE SAYING THAT AS TEACHERS, WE ARE DOING EVERYTHING WE CAN TO MAKE SURE STUDENTS CAN BE SUCCESSFUL ,” GASSER SAID.

WHS Science Dept. member and DLT member, Eric Heller stated, “There are four main principles of practice that we look through for everything we do as a district; teaching students receive will always fall into one of four categories”. core instruction; Heller said this is to have a focus on instruction that can meet the needs of all students.

The second component of the Principles of Practice is the use of Teacher-Based Teams intended to better plan out the education of students within

the district. “For example, at the high school level, there may be a physical science team or a biology team. At the elementary level, there may be a third grade team,” Heller said.

The third component is titled, The Wooster Way. Gasser said the Wooster Way has already existed and that it is an umbrella of services with a focus on emotional well-being.

Wooster Way lessons include instruction on microaggressions and privilege awareness, which is carried out through multiple grade levels. is Instruction; the goal of this component is to ensure that instruction is aligned with the standards of state testing.

The DLT hopes for a transition where the focus gradually shifts toward upholding and promoting all four principles throughout the school district as a whole.

“The elementary level will focus more on the Wooster Way, and the high school will focus more on initial core instruction.

We will start where we are strongest and branch out,” Gasser said.

Additionally, Heller mentioned that while although all levels of education will adopt the new philosophy, it will be at each level.

“For example, the elementary will focus on the Leader in Me program to meet the Wooster Way component, while the high school will focus more on student curriculum,” Heller said.

At this point in time, the WSC Board of Education has tabled the mission statement.

In May, members of the board are attending the next district leadership team meeting on the subject and will vote on the approval of the Principles of Practice afterwards.

For the last several weeks, the walls of WHS have been decorated by signs announcing the upcoming talent show.

The talent show, organized by Student Government, will be performed April 28. According to Student Government vice president Mimi Wiles, the show will feature roughly 20 acts.

A variety of talent will be performing in the show. Wiles mentioned several more unusual acts including magic, ukuleles and tap dancing.

Chelsey Porter, English Dept. member and adviser of Student Government, said students can expect may talented singers and two original songs.

In between the acts, the show will feature multiple opportunities for audience participation. Wiles said there will be a series of contests, including a dance-off, and trivia between acts, especially between those who take longer to set up.

The 2017 talent show will not feature any acts performed by faculty members. According to Porter, “There was some debate on whether or not to include faculty acts,” however, the show was already deemed too long to effectively incorporate them.

Auditions for the show were held earlier this month.

However, the process of planning the talent show was already underway at that point.

Porter said the talent show is Student Government’s traditional fundraiser, so it has been expected since the beginning of the year.

A committee of Student Government members held and judged the auditions. The show itself will be judged by staff April Wackerly, custodian, Miriam Stokes, Spanish Dept., and Lisa Lang, work-study coordinator.

Wiles stated that the show is expected to last anywhere from one hour to one and a half hours. Entry to the talent show will cost attendees $5, according to Wiles.

Post Prom occupies WHS students after dance NICK COSMO a&e editor

Post Prom is an event held after prom for students to keep the party going.

According to Mimi Wiles (11), president of the junior class, that students can play, ranging from laser tag to the possibility of a sumo suit wrestling game.

Wiles attributes the majority of the planning to junior class parents, especially to Jillian Schneider’s (11) mother Chrissy Schneider. Wiles provided an example of the degree of aid that the parents have provided by saying, “Our student

group helps with promoting fundraisers, but all the credit should be given to her and the other parents.”

One fundraiser is the quarter auction. Junior class student government representative Amber Swigart (11) explains how the auction functions, saying “At this weekend’s quarter auction you can bid for and goodies using quarters, and all proceeds go to Wooster’s Post Prom.”

Post Prom will be taking place at Acres of Fun, which is located at 3889 Friendsville Road, and will be held beginning at 12 a.m. until 3 a.m.

WHS Jazz Band presents annual Big Band Dance JACOB GOOCH What could be better than white lights and dancing to the pitch perfect sounds of the Wooster High School Music Dept.’s Jazz Band?

On May 6, from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the WHS Commons, Jazz Band will be hosting their annual Big Band Dance.

Every year, people young and old attend the dance to listen and dance to the Jazz Band.

“The Big Band Dance is set apart from other dances by the live performance from the Jazz Band and the overall atmosphere and community participation in the dance,” Estelle Shaya (11), three year alto saxophonist in the Jazz Band, said. year bass player of the Jazz

Band, said, “I feel like I am going to be ready. I think it will be a lot of fun and I am really looking forward to it.”

Dan Adams, Director of the Jazz Band and Music Dept. member, said he thinks the dance will go well and notes that he is very excited about the Jazz Band’s performance.

In addition, prior to the event every year, a professional dance instructor provides a free class to all Big Band dance goers before the doors open for the dance in the WHS main gym.

The Big Band tradition is also rooted in the culture of the United States, according to Len Weinstock of The Red Hot Jazz Archive, as the big band era began at the turn of the twentieth-century and continued through 1955, when rock became popular with artists such as Elvis.

CORPORATE SPONSORS

The Big Band era peaked following the Great Depression as many saw Big Band music as an escape from their hard day jobs putting food on the table.

This music was rooted in emotion and was able to help people forget the distinctly disappointing emotions of the day and replace them with the lively and interesting emotions permeated by the musician’s sounds.

Not only is the Jazz Band gearing up for the Big Band Dance, but the community and the student body are waiting in anticipation as well.

Emma Payment (11), says, “The Big Band Dance is my favorite dance of the year, and the music is amazing.”

The Big Band Dance has been a part of the Wooster community for many a year and will be for many more.

SPONSORS

$500 ar.

Baaron, Inc. BCI Buckeye Division

The Pines Golf Club The Urban Cottage

Metals USA Dyer Roche & Company, Inc.

FOCUS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 4

A taste of Wooster students’ fridge worthy accomplishments

1

Tracy Morgan (12) (pictured with her coach, McKenzie Doup) recently signed to attend the University of Ashland. Morgan will run cross country for Ashland in the fall.

2

Rachel Wood (12) was one of 10 students in Northeast Ohio who received the Cavaliers Huntington Scholarship.

Scholarship recipients received $2,000, as well as an iPad.

3

Joey McGhee (11) led off the Generals’ varsity baseball team in their April 24 game against Revere High School. McGhee’s inside-the-park home run was featured on Fox 8 Cleveland.

4

Molly Kilbourne (12) will attend Washington & Jefferson University this coming fall.

Kilbourne will be continuing her lacrosse career while there.

Editor’s note: The purpose of this page is to showcase accomplishments made by WHS students. It is in no way shape or form an all-inclusive list, but is rather a highlight of recent events.

1

3

2 HANNAH KNAPIC

MADISON CULVER-LEE

Blurbs written by Evan Doan

EVAN DOAN

4 PHOTO COURTESY OF MOLLY KILBOURNE

Graphics by Spencer Dilyard and Matt Lorentz

150 N. Walnut St. Downtown Wooster 330-601-1250

Upscale and Designer Consignment Clothing and Accessories

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 5

Analyzing WHS policy for participation in multiple sports HANNAH KNAPIC cover editor

The Wooster Board of Education multiple activities policy 5730 dictates the steps athletes, coaches and administrators must follow when considering multi-sport athletes.

The 2013-2014 Athletic Handbook contains the BOE policy that is comprised of five clauses, beginning with advisers and coaches having to cooperate to eliminate conflicts to allow students to participate in multiple sports.

It is also stated that “Every effort will be made in the scheduling process to eliminate gross conflicts between different activities,” and notes that athletic contests and musical performances will take

precedence over practices.

According to policy 5730, students who wish to participate in multiple sports or extracurricular activities must choose a primary activity in case of conflicts that are unable to be resolved. If there are conflicts that cannot be resolved between coaches, the issues will be taken in front of the Athletic Director, whose decision will be final, according to the Athletic Handbook.

WHS Principal Tyler Keener said the flexibility allowed by the board’s policy is both good and bad.

Keener stated, “It’s very situational, with lots of variables that go into it based on the sport, the coaches and the athlete.”

The flexibility presented by the policy leaves a lot of gray

KEENER STATED,“IT’S VERY SITUATIONAL, WITH LOTS OF VARIABLES THAT GO INTO IT BASED ON THE SPORT, THE COACHES AND THE ATHLETE.” area, said Keener, and varies from sport to sport because of the ability of coaches to decide whether or not a student can participate in more than one activity.

Cleveland Clinic doctor, Denny Davis, believes that while playing multiple sports can have its benefits, it also has physical downsides.

Certain benefits of competing in multiple sports include development of skills, team building and enjoyment of participation by the athlete, stated Davis.

However, Davis also stated participating in multiple sports,

especially in the same season, can lead to overexertion, mental fatigue, burnout and time taken away from other activities, such as social time, studying, rest and recovery.

For sports that have similar mechanics, Davis expressed concern for overuse injuries, stating, “...soccer and track both require running, which could lead to stress fractures, foot and ankle problems… volleyball and softball both involve repetitive use of the dominant arm for striking and throwing, which often leads to shoulder and elbow injuries.”

Davis recommends to

athletes who wish to compete in multiple sports to allow adequate time for rest and recovery to ensure that overuse injuries do not occur, and to lightly cross train in the off season.

Willis Snyder (12) participated in football and soccer throughout his high school career, commenting that participating in both sports made him better at the other.

Snyder said his soccer background assisted in kicking techniques and flexibility, while football workouts made him stronger and allowed him to improve his soccer skill.

COVER

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 6 Hand graphic created by Evan Rice, Prom graphic created

by Matt Lorentz.

Fundraising list compiled

by Olivia Sleek.

und

Local schools practice varying policies during upcoming prom-related events DREW FRIEDHOFF sports editor

in s i ra

g

- The Student Government has done Chipotle fundraisers, a carnation sale on Valentine’s day and the quarter auction on April 30 to help raise money to fund Prom and Post-Prom, according to Junior Class President Mimi Wiles.

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- Erika Mihoci, Junior Class adviser for last year’s Prom, says classes do various things to help raise funds. “In eighth grade, students sell butter braids, and the money raised goes to their account to start high school. In ninth and tenth grade, students do various fundraisers like dine to donate events, flower sales, t-shirt sales, etc. Lastly, ticket sales for both Prom and Grand March help tremendously,” according to Mihoci.

- Dylan Ruff, Junior Class adviser, mentions more of what the money goes toward.

“The Prom budget is $1,500- $2,000, but being closer to the $2,000 range. The money goes toward everything.

Buying the tickets, Grand March decorations, paying the police, pretty much everything that comes with hosting a Prom,” Ruff said.

Most of the money made this year is from Prom ticket sales, according to Ruff.

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of WHS’ 2017 Prom began at the end of the 2016 school year, and the dance’s set up is nearly completed.

S LIA The duty of planning Prom U D KAR tor traditionally falls upon the S O i S The DRO n campus ed planning junior class, who will begin o their work near the end of their

school.

According to Lynn Taylor, prom adviser and Science Dept. member at Triway High School, said their Grand March is what makes their Prom unique, explaining that students have incorporated helicopters, trucks, tractors, horses, buggies and four wheelers.

At Norwayne, Lisa Piatt, junior class adviser and librarian, said the Prom committee deserves credit for putting together and making their Prom memorable.

“Our Prom committee puts in a lot of time to make our Grand March and dinner dance top notch. We put a lot of time into decorations and have our junior and senior class officers involved with the decision making,” Piatt said.

Piatt also disclosed that Prom dresses have been a hot topic at Norwayne, as girls are required to have their dresses screened in order to not have duplicates and to make sure dresses are not too revealing.

As the days count down approaching Prom for WHS, other local schools prepare for their own proms and their own unique twist on the meaningful night.

While these schools all mirror the usual progression of Grand March, Prom, followed by Post Prom, the details of these events v a r y f r o m school t o

sophomore year.

WHS Science Dept. member Dylan Ruff advises this year’s Junior Class and carries out the responsibilities of purchasing and ordering after Student Government members have decided on what they want for the dance. Ten students comprise the Prom committee, and the planning was conducted at biweekly meetings.

Smithville utilizes Tri-County rules for dresses and other situations that may arise according to Nate Gaubatz, principal at Smithville High School. Gaubatz stated the school makes their Prom stand out by doing a good job of getting people to commit and take part in activities.

None of the three schools utilize a breathalyzer prior to any events, according to Taylor, Piatt and Gaubatz.

However, they all have police officers on watch for suspicious behavior.

Norwayne’s and Smithville’s Prom is May 6, while Triway’s is on May 20.

Post prom for Norwayne is held at Kalahari, Fun N’ Stuff at Macedonia for Smithville and Triway’s Post Prom is in the Ashland recreation center.

n i r a ne

Class President and Student Body Vice President Mimi Wiles (11) says planning Prom is a challenging process due to the expectations involved.

“Everyone works hard and efficiently, which is amazing because the whole thing can be stressful. Not only do we have to create a perfect Prom that is financially possible, but we also have to consider how much the student body will enjoy it because it is their night,” Wiles said.

Prom will take place on May 13. According to Ruff, the only remaining set-up duties are

e c n a gd

m i n o r and purely cosmetic.

This year, Prom will be held at Greenbriar Conference & Party Center. Wiles states the switch has made the process of setting up and organizing the event far easier for the students involved.

Despite its challenges, Ruff’s states his first time planning Prom was highly rewarding.

Ruff further states that class advisers are only involved in the planning process for a single year.

Zach Dreher (11) took part in organizing Prom, and states picking the theme for the dance was an enjoyable part of the process. Overall, Dreher says the experience has been a beneficial one.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 7

PROM:

student preparations on campus editor Prom is the biggest dance of the year; therefore, requires more preparation than smaller dances such as Homecoming and winter formal.

Gwen Hahn, 2016 WHS alum, attended Prom last year as a senior.

“It is important that you make sure your hair appointment is at a decent time. You also need to figure out how you are going to do your makeup, and who you want to go with. Most importantly, you have to find the perfect dress,” Hahn said.

Jenna Thorn (12) agrees with Hahn about what goes into preparing for the dance.

“For girls, you first have to find a dress, then if you’re going with a date you need to make sure they color coordinate with you. Girls usually spend a while getting nails, makeup and hair done the day of Prom,” Thorne said.

Along with the personal preparation, much goes into the planning if going with a group.

“You also have to organize where you and your group are going to eat and take pictures. This is the most difficult part because not everyone will agree,” Thorne said.

Erica Miller, (12) says the weeks leading up to the dance can get pretty stressful.“You want everything to be perfect, so the preparation can get really stressful.

From finding a date, to Grand March, the smallest of details can go wrong, but once you are finally at the dance surrounded by your friends, you realize everything fell into place,” Miller said.

Though much work goes into preparing for Prom, it all seems worth it to those involved.

planning and preparing for a perfect night

Breaking down the cost of Prom is $22

At Spa Collections in Wooster, a basic

$37, according to their website.

$35, according to their website.

Tux rentals

hairstyling for a school dance starts at $99 to $199, $60

A

Local businesses see

$25 per person and $45 for a couple.

to

$1,000

corsage is around $35 on average and boutonnieres are around $15

Blurb by Holly Miller.

Tickets

Prom brings attention to Wooster’s local hair and nail salons.

For many students, a huge part of Prom is the preparation, which includes getting hair, nails and tanning done.

Tip Toes & Beyond, on Burbank Road, is a destination for your manicure and pedicure needs, offering a package for $53 and acrylic nails for $30.

American Nails, on Burbank Road, offers a friendly environment and affordable price. Manicures start at $10 and pedicure for $27.

For those interested in onestop shopping, Spa Collections

of Wooster offers both hair and nail services: $22 manicures, and updos starting at $35.

Sheer Professionals, hair styling studio on Cleveland Road, is a third time nominee and winner of the North American Hairstyling Award.

They specifically offer a school dance updo and style package for $35 and up.

Located downtown in the Liberty Street Commons, and boasting a 4.7-star rating on Facebook, Salon Fringe offers prom updos for $45-$50.

Preparation for Prom can be made easy by supporting Wooster’s local businesses.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 8

Graphics by Matt Lorentz

“ My favorite memory was dancing to Michael Jackson. I would advise people to dance; you’re not too cool to not dance, only Colt Morgan is,” Nick Johnston (12)

Quotes by Isabelle Cannon, Rachel Wood, Valarie Anderson and Ryan Miller

Individuals of all ages share their Prom hopes, opinions and experiences. “Basically being a princess because I have

“Being able to spend a night with my friends; dancing and having a good time. I guess also celebrating the end of the school year/ high school.” –Hannah Watson (9)

“My favorite Prom memory was being called out on stage at Grand March for Prom court with Isabelle.

I would advise others to get a good

“I can’t wait to go dress dress with sparkles. And, I can’t wait to get proposed to with a helicopter.” –Cally Stoffer (10)

a huge, poufy dress to wear.” –Ariah Henry (9)

“The promposals: it is just so elaborate. It’s become more of a show, but that’s just an old curmudgeon speaking.”

William Franck, English Dept. member

“My favorite Prom memory was walking out on stage at Grand March. I would advise the guys to take out a loan, as it’s expensive. But, in all seriousness, have fun and don’t do anything you will regret,” Chris Cannon (12)

“Prom is one of those nights I will remember fondly for a long time. The best part about Prom was just spending a stress free day with my friends, getting dressed up, dancing and having fun all night. Post Prom is more casual and relaxed and you can still go and play games and hang out with your friends, even if you didn’t go to the dance.” -Shreya Gurumurthy (‘16) Photo taken by Kayla Ashworth

FEATURE

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 9

The Importance of proper Etiquette

Catherine Webster is changing this generation for the better, one courtesy class at a time.

For the past 30 years, Webster has been teaching courtesy and etiquette classes, ballroom courses and just about anything in between in the Wooster community.

Growing up, Webster took a course in school about proper etiquette and manners in social gatherings. This class left an impact on her life, so she decided to create a class for young people to learn about basic courtesy.

She teaches a wide range of people and travels to schools, colleges and businesses.

During the courtesy class, many things are taught and experienced. Webster said one major point on which she focuses is that courtesy is about making guests feel comfortable. She also expresses the hope of young people learning manners that stay with them for the rest of their lives.

One thing Webster says at the end of each class is that “It’s not memorizing rules, it’s having an attitude of kindness.”

If you are interested in taking one of her courses, she said the best way to contact her is through Facebook and search for, “Mrs. Webster’s Courtesy Matters Program.”

Blurb written by Maureen McKeown

Photo courtesy of Hanna Morgan Maureen McKeown, Isabelle Cannon,Catherine Webster, Hanna Morgan and Austin McCully meet for interview about etiquette

Editors offer tips to follow for those attending Prom

HANNA MORGAN feature editor

From the fancy dresses, the high heels, the perfect hair and makeup, along with a great night full of fun, Prom is something that most girls look forward to during high school.

But, something about senior Prom, and it being my last high school dance, I want this night to be extra special.

I always thought I possessed good manners, but it turns out I needed a little Prom etiquette refresher before my last formal dance.

When I heard about my opportunity to meet with Catherine Webster, AKA “Mrs. Manners,” there was no way I could pass this up.

I learned there are certain expectations as to how a girl should properly act on Prom night.

I learned many valuable lessons talking to Webster, in which a few of the ones I found most important, I will share.

While planning for Prom, always ask your date for opinions on where to eat or take pictures.

No phones at the dinner table, it comes off rude and disrespectful to those with whom you are eating.

With that, a ladies purse should never go on the table.

It can hang off the back of the chair or be placed on the ground.

Do not chew gum while walking on stage at Grand March. It just looks bad.

It does not hurt to give your date a compliment, as it makes a person feel more confident Always accept kindness from your date and be receptive, even if it is not wanted.

Most importantly, have a good time and enjoy your evening.

Along with these tips, I also learned how to properly dance with my date.

You can catch me on Prom night showcasing the foxtrot, the waltz and the chacha.

I am not quite ready to be on Dancing with the Stars, but Prom will be a good test of my newly acquired skills.

Webster stresses that being polite and kind will make your night one to remember.

All of these tips will prepare me for my senior Prom night to which I am looking forward.

Graphic by Matt Lorentz

AUSTIN MCCULLY focus editor

Gentlemen, it is almost time for Prom.

Recently, I learned Prom etiquette from Catherine Webster, and I had the following takeaways.

When you pick your date up from her house, you walk up and knock on the front door; that “I’m here” text will not cut it for tonight.

When you are let in, introduce yourself to her parents with a smile, handshake, if you are not already familiar with them.

Even if you know them well, a handshake and a friendly greeting are appropriate.

Upon seeing your date, a friendly comment on her appearance is expected; she worked hard to look the way she does.

When leaving, be sure to let

your date walk in front of you and to open the car door for her before going around and seating yourself.

When you arrive at the restaurant, open the door for your date and again let her walk in front of you.

Then, be sure to pull out her chair for her once you get to your table.

Upon taking your seat, put your napkin on your lap and leave it there for the entirety of the meal; if you have to use the restroom, put the napkin on your chair.

During the meal, know your proper utensils, exercise good table manners and, most importantly, put your phone away.

At the dance itself, be sure to stay with your date; she is your date for a reason. You made a commitment to each other and it is your responsibility to carry that through by spending the evening together.

Also, come to the dance at least minimally prepared with some basic dance steps.

My most important takeaway, however, is to have fun on Prom night.

The preceding advice is sure to help you put your best foot forward in ensuring that those around you also have a lovely evening.

Be kind and courteous, but be sure to let loose and enjoy yourself also.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 10

OCIAL USTICE committee encourages inclusivity MADDY NACCI sports editor

The Social Justice Committee in the Wooster City School District is a group comprised of staff members who come together to promote positive change in the schools of the district.

The committee includes representatives from WHS, Edgewood and the elementary schools, and it is headed by Jennifer Crum.

The Social Justice Committee is a part of The Wooster Way

and serves as a tool that can be used to empower the heart, body and mind of students, according to WHS representatives, Amanda Terakedis, administrative intern, and Julianna Hamad, guidance counselor.

This committee encourages appreciation and acceptance of all students, regardless of learning disabilities, race, gender or socioeconomic status.

“The ultimate goal of the committee is to provide an equitable learning environment for all students,” Molly Mahaney, special needs

and intervention specialist representative, said.

Ashley Heffinger, Cornerstone Elementary Intervention Specialist, says being a part of the Social Justice Committee gives her an opportunity to advocate for students and help establish equality for students in grades K-4.

“As an intervention specialist, my part is speaking up for students with learning disabilities and making sure that they are receiving high quality instruction, support within behavior and effort and motivation to keep doing their best,” Heffinger said.

The Social J u s t i c e Committees have also formed in 28 other schools from Wayne and Stark County, including: Orrville, WCCS, Rittman, Triway, Dalton and Waynedale, according to Terakedis.

The staff members, on the district Social Justice Committee, selected students from WHS to be involved in positive change for their own WHS Social Justice Committee, advised by Terakedis.

“Wooster High School

...THE VALUES OF SOCIAL JUSTICE THAT WE ENDORSE HELP US TO EDUCATE STUDENTS ON HOW TO TREAT OTHERS— EVEN THOSE WHO ARE NOT LIKE THEM HAMAD SAID.

identified our diverse subgroups of students based on socioeconomic status, gender, race, religion, etc. We then sought out representation for

each of these backgrounds by finding one student who could represent that,” Terakedis said.

The Social Justice Committee has provided valuable lessons and has helped staff members advocate for all students.

“I have always wanted to work with a district that aligns with the belief that each young person has the opportunity to thrive, given certain contextual factors are put into place...School is no longer just a place for academics, and the values of Social Justice that we endorse help us to educate students on how to treat others—even those who are not like them,” Hamad said.

The Social Justice Committee is still in the early stages and has developed a district social justice action plan that hopes to coordinate with the district’s school-wide plan, according to Heffinger.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 11 “The Breakfast Club and The Outsiders” -Jill Coppola (English Dept.)

ERIN O’DONNELL cover editor

Growing up, I think my family watched Shrek four times a week.

Okay, maybe that is an exaggeration, but the movie was definitely a big part of my

early childhood.

I remember being about fiveyears-old, being a part of a local T-Ball league. I dedicatedly showed up to every practice, in preparation for the one single game our little team would play at the end of the season.

When the big day finally rolled around, I came downstairs to find my brother Mike watching the movie Shrek, and I turned to my mother said, “Actually, Mom, I don’t wanna play. I wanna watch Shrek.”

To this day, I still remember sitting with my big brother, quoting line after line, and being so content and thankful that he wanted to spend time

with me.

Although Shrek in particular was my favorite, this could have been any movie. I just wanted to spend time with family. My family was always very busy with sports when my brothers and I were children, so family time was often hard to arrange.

By the time we could all be together, we were drained and just wanted to rest.

Thus, family movie nights became a big part of my childhood. My favorite memories as a child come from curling up under blankets, with my family around me, watching, yup, you guessed it, Shrek.

MOVIES AND VIDEO GAMES REMIND STUDENTS AND STAFF OF CHILDHOOD

Writer upon past video games

CHRISTOPHER ROCHE Many things can bring up a feeling of childhood nostalgia, including, a favorite book, a favorite movie or song and even in some more recent cases, a favorite computer game.

The history of computer games stretch back to Pong, one of the first computer games, released

in 1972, according to an article in LifeWire, by D.S. Cohen.

For this generation, computer games play a vital role in our childhood.

One Wooster High School Student, Elisabeth Kille (11), said “I used to play a Mini Golf game when I was a kid.”

Another WHS student, Julien Lubell (11), said, “ Minecraft was my favorite game when I was a kid.”

Minecraft was initially released in 2009, and has gained a massive following since its release.

The ways in which nostalgia is felt have changed with each generation and computer games seem to be an increasing way that people spent their childhoods.

“Lilo and Stitch” -Alanah McCoy (8) “Toy Story” -Treyvon O’Hearn (11) “Cinderella” -Savannah Ebin (10) “The Lion King” -Antonio Crossty (12) “The Iron Giant” -Jared Nau (9) “Sharkboy and Lavagirl” -Zeke Ntia (8) “Fox and the Hound” -Trynadie Wears (11)

“Sim City, because it has a realistic feel to it. There’s an infinite amount of things to do in it. It’s basically a world where you control everything.” - Nathan Lee (11) “Club Penguin. I’m not really sure why I liked it that much, but every day, I would get home and play it.” Xavier Lubell (9) “Half Life series, because it had an excellent story and excellent gameplay.” -Brendan Dulaney (12) “Mario Kart, because the graphics were great and the competition was intense.” - McCayla Connors (11) “Carmen Sandiego, I liked to do all of the detective work, I liked how the game kept going and if you stuck with it, you eventually found her.”- Eric Heller ( Science Dept.)

THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | APRIL. 28, 2017 | PAGE 12

Styles has been very busy during this break. He will be in a new Christopher Nolan movie, Dunkirk, chopped off his beautiful and trademark hair to donate to charity, released two singles and has an album coming out in May and was the musical guest on Saturday Night Live on April 15.

L I A M

S h o w b e s t s f l a w s

H A R R Y

Since the hiatus, Liam has been working hard on his solo album. He has yet to give the fans a taste of what to expect, but his social media suggests it will be released soon. Payne began dating X-Factor judge Cheryl, and they welcomed a baby last month.

Where are they now?

A look at where the former members of One Direction are going with their solo careers and personal lives.

Blurbs by Kayla Barnet In seventh grade, I read the book Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. It was a very heavy and hard book to get through, due to its serious nature and my young age.

Regardless though, I found it interesting and was ecstatic to hear there was going to be a show based off the thrilling mystery novel.

It took me only three days to watch all 13 episodes when they were put onto Netflix. I was constantly on the edge of my seat and needing to know what was going to happen.

However, if I am going to be completely honest, there are a fair amount of things I do have a problem with in the show.

It is nowhere near perfect, and it made a fair amount of mistakes, but I believe it was an honest and valiant effort in the step in the right directions.

13 Reasons Why opens up the topic of suicide and high school bullying. It is very accurate to what high schoolers deal with today, not the stereotypical and cliche portrayals many movies and TV shows do.

KAYLA BARNET The show forces the viewers to witness the main character’s, a&e editor Hannah, suicide. It is extremely uncomfortable and almost unbearable to watch, that is the point.

Suicide is not a pretty, romantic thing; it is horrific and 13 Reasons Why makes the viewer feel that.

As I said before, there are a fair amount of things I do not think this show did well, but one of them they did succeed in is an attempt to opening up a discussion. One that makes us aware of what we are doing and saying, how they affect others.

Since the show was put on Netflix, not a day goes by where I do not hear a peer discussing it, or read a magnitude of tweets regarding those dreaded tapes.

13 Reasons Why is definitely a show worth watching, and whether you like it or not, it made an honest attempt at tackling a subject that too many people are afraid of trying.

L O U I S

Niall spent much of his time off traveling. While on the road with One Direction, he did not have much time to truly explore the cities and countries they visited. In addition, he also kicked off his solo career, releasing a single called “This Town.”

Graphics by Matt Lorentz

When I heard that Netflix would adapt Jay Asher’s novel Thirteen Reasons Why into a series, I anxiously awaited its release, message about kindness and production through a service that has spawned great shows like Orange is the New Black; Perhaps inevitably, I am disappointed.

In the Rolling Stone article “Does ‘13 Reasons Why’ glamorize teen suicide?,” Alexa Curtis analyzes the effect of the excessive teen drama and its trivialization of Hannah’s death.

“In real life, when someone commits suicide, their story ends there... We become captivated by the drama of the suicide rather than the actual suicide itself,” Curtis said.

Furthermore, according to Curtis, suicide is the second leading cause of death for teens.

As a result, Constance Grady asserts, in the vox.com article “13 Reasons Why takes a voyeuristic lens to rape and suicide,” that the IN suicide’s graphic portrayal could heed OUT disastrous results, as the correlation between a dramatization of suicide and real-life suicide attempts is clear.

“That’s because of a phenomenon known as suicide contagion, in which suicide attempts increase after a highprofile successful suicide, whether real... or fictional ... suicide contagion means that for some 13 Reasons Why viewers, the graphic depiction of Hannah’s suicide might function as a how-to guide,” Grady said.

More than anything, the show fails to show its viewers that treatment can produce beneficial results.

The guidance counselor’s dismissal of Hannah’s problems is a realistic, though saddening, situation.

The communications teacher fails to give anything but textbook-style responses when Hannah anonymously admits suicidal thoughts.

The fact that a show for teenagers portrays seeking help when one grapples with suicidal thoughts as ineffective is sickening.

In the end, the entertainment value in the series cannot be denied; its biggest failure, lies in its failure to show that teens struggling with mental health issues have realistic, effective and understanding sources of help.

TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY

B

Louis has tried his hand at judging, as he served as one on America’s Got Talent last summer. He also became a father, along with Liam, when he welcomed a son in January of 2016. Tomlinson collaborated with Steve Aoki and released a single with him. Sadly, Louis also lost his mom to cancer in December.

N I A L L

S e r e i s o f f e n d s

SPORTS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 13

LeBron

Michael

JAMES

LeBron has already smashed MJ in rebounds (1,034 more) and assists (1,828 more) and has played in 11 less regular season games than MJ according to ESPN.com.

LeBron has also played in 14 consecutive seasons, one less than MJ’s total seasons played, while MJ never played more than nine consecutive seasons and also retired twice in his 15 year career.

LeBron is simply an ironman compared to Jordan. time, the following season, the Bulls still won 55 games, only two less than with MJ. When LeBron left Cleveland, the Cavaliers dropped from 61 wins to 19 wins. Both of these records show LeBron’s sheer impact on a franchise when not playing for them, an impact that Jordan cannot match.

LeBron also just had his single

GRANT PEABODY business manager

While Michael Jordan is atop of the NBA as the Greatest Of All Time, LeBron James, season after season proves his name should weigh just as much as Jordan’s in talking about the Greatest Of All Time.

At only 3,505 points behind MJ on all time scoring list, LeBron will have an easy time passing him in the next two seasons.

While some may bring up that MJ will have played in over 100 less games than LeBron when LeBron passes MJ in points,

career, while at age 32 and in his 14 season, something that has never been done in NBA history. And, in LeBron’s 14th season, he will have the chance to make his seventh consecutive overall.

If you match them up at age 31, LeBron has been to twice as many Finals, they both have three rings and LeBron has one more regular season MVP. LeBron James is in a league of his own, and as soon as he raises a couple more banners in The Q, The King just might dethrone His Airness as the greatest basketball player to ever lace them up.

J

Who Will Be The Greatest of All Time?

RDAN

ADAM KIRK The game of basketball was, is, and always will be about one thing: getting buckets.

It is a simple fact that in basketball, as in many other sports, you need to score more points than the other team in order to win. And, that is where Michael Jordan will best LeBron James every time.

In his career, Michael Jordan averaged three points more than LeBron per game, according to landofbasketball. com. This fact becomes even more impressive when you realize that MJ’s stat includes the years before he became a superstar and includes those after his prime. LeBron’s physical decline is likely to begin soon, but even without his less productive later years included, LeBron still can not score as much as Jordan could.

Even if you only look at the stats from each player’s most productive season, which happened for both players in their early twenties, Jordan still tops LeBron by a full six points.

And, those 37.1 points per game came to Jordan even while future hall of fame members John Paxson and Scottie Pippen

were on the court with him.

LeBron was not able to put up those numbers while the only players taking scoring opportunities away from him were Drew Gooden and Larry Hughes.

Many of the greatest coaches in the history of sports have said, it is not about how you start, it is about how you finish.

In that category, Jordan is unmatched.

Jordan tops LeBron in points per game, field goal percentage, three point percentage and free throw percentage in the playoffs. These superior stats, as well as his commitment to the Chicago Bulls franchise, no taking his talents to South Beach, have earned Jordan six NBA championships, compared to LeBron’s three.

As Beyoncé would say; if you like it, put a ring on it.

Apparently, the game of basketball loves Michael Jordan so much, they gave him six.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 14

Parents provide biggest source of motivation JOHN GORMAN Athletes draw inspiration from a myriad of sources, though perhaps none greater than their parents.

A poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 92 percent of children admire their parents most, and with good reason. Their parents are likely the most influential role models the children will know growing up.

This admiration translates seamlessly into athletics as well. A supportive parent provides a firm foundation for young athletes. Peter Goebel (10), a second year tennis player at WHS, underscores the importance his parents have played in his athletic career.

“Beyond simply paying for practices and equipment to help me improve at tennis, my parents have always taught me to work hard for my goals and always try to keep a positive outlook,” Goebel said.

According to an article titled, “Parents Play Crucial Role in Helping Students Achieve Success,” from the National Federation of State High School Associations, parental guidance and support is essential to success. According to Dr. William O’Neil of the NFHS, “[parents] should model the virtues they wish to see in their children, practice good sportsmanship and remain adults in trying situations.

Parents should cheer for their kids’ teams, not against their team’s opponents – and meet

s e t e l Ath d e c n e u l f n i s r e h t O y b

E R U S S E E PR LAM B RT O P SUP INSPIRE

Pro athletes inspire students ALEXANDER THOMPSON Today, students are surrounded by professional athletes on television, in advertising and online.

Some of WHS’s athletes inspiration they draw from the pros.

Reis Rising (12), a baseball player, cited Bryce Harper, a Nationals.

“He continues to stay positive and his team. He plays the game the right way,” Rising said.

Paul Lindemann (12), four year tennis team member admires Swiss tennis player, Roger Federer.

victory or defeat with grace.”

Yet, parents can also model negative behaviors in their children, as evident in the Ball family. Lavar Ball, father of basketball prodigies Lonzo, LaMelo and LiAngelo, is a firm believer in instilling confidence in his children, though how he goes about it is under scrutiny.

An April 2017 ESPN article titled, “LaVar Ball: UCLA was too slow to win title,” chronicles his comments made to the Southern California News Group.

“Realistically, you can’t win no championship with three white guys because the foot speed is too slow, I told Lonzo, ‘One of these games you might need to go for 30 or 40 points.’ It turned out that was the one game,” said Ball, likely in reference to UCLA’s TJ Leaf, Bryce Alford and Thomas Welch and their

Sweet Sixteen loss in the NCAA tournament this year.

(Ball finished the game with 10 points and eight assists, while his counterpart, Kentucky’s De’Aaron Fox, finished with 39).

While instilling confidence in young athletes is critical, it is unacceptable to be teaching young athletes that their losses and shortcomings should all be blamed on others.

The role parents play in the upbringing of young athletes cannot be understated. While parents can certainly model poor sportsmanship and cast blame on others, they can also be beacons of hard work, determination and gamesmanship.

nice and he smiles a lot. He helps me keep in mind that I need to be a good sport and always stay positive.”

Other students were inspired by professional athletes’ achievements.

Adrian Evans (12), who splits her time between cheerleading, said Michael Phelps is someone to whom she has looked up.

“He’s gotten a lot of medals, and he’s pretty old,” Evans said.

Willis Snyder (12), whose sports include football and soccer, is inspired by the Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady.

Snyder lauded Brady, saying, “A lot of people didn’t believe in him, now he’s the best player of all time. Plus, he runs a slow 40, and I run a slow 40.”

By inspiring both sportspersonship and achievement, for some at least, the ubiquity of professional athletes is paying positive dividends.

VIEWS

SARAH HOPKINS co-edior-in-chief

Every morning, while drinking my coffee and eating some kind of last-minute breakfast, I look at The New York Times’ daily news briefing 60% of students think that the perception of teenagers in love is “negative.”

Only 19% of people who marry their high school sweethearts attend college.

MAUREEN McKEOWN views editor

There is something that I have never understood about high school: it is all the relationships.

How can you go from “loving” a boy so much one day, to just blocking him on every social media outlet the

THE WOOSTER BLADE | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 15

on my news app.

The April 1 briefing brought forth a news story that caught my eye, and not in a good way: Bill O’Reilly and Fox News paid $13 million in settlements to women due to sexual harassment allegations made against “The O’Reilly Factor” host.

Nearly three weeks after the story broke, Fox News announced on April 18 that O’Reilly was fired. Good news, right? Justice for all? Not exactly.

To delay the firing of O’Reilly until 18 days of bad press and pulled sponsors had taken their toll, still sends the wrong

message to the public.

It sends the message that Fox News did not do this because it is the right thing to do and they want to ensure a safe work environment for all; they did it because it became absolutely necessary to any further success of the network.

And, even though he will not be employed by Fox News any longer, O’Reilly received a $25 million payout as he departs from the network.

Just last year, former chairman of Fox News, Roger Ailes, resigned after facing sexual harassment allegations himself, according to “Roger Ailes resigns as Fox

News chairman amid sexual harassment allegations, Rupert Murdoch to take the reigns,” on nydailynews.com.

And, let us not forget the big man himself, President Donald Trump bragged about making unwanted advances on women on a 2005 video and was accused of sexual assault and misconduct by 10 women back in October, according to, “Women accusing Donald Trump of sexual misconduct” on cbsnews.com.

Delaying the consequences of these men’s actions or allowing them to continue to hold positions of power sets the dangerous precedent

Concerns increase surrounding new dating culture in current generation next? I just do not understand it.

Society today has taught us all the wrong things about relationships, and we have grown up believing them.

We are taught that we have to post cute pictures of us as a couple, we should surprise our significant other with gifts all the time and ask them to dances in a clever way. Since when is this okay, people?

Dating is supposed to be fun; it is a great way to get outside your comfort zone and connect with someone.

For the last 20 years, since the smartphone came out, all that dating has evolved to is connecting in texts and posts, instead of actually seeing the

other person.

Seeing these just makes my thought of dating in high school to be pointless.

It is not dating; it is, instead, texting one another with heart emojis at the end.

Movies create a false light on dating, and we all fall for it.

It shows happy couples who never fight and get along all the time. Growing up seeing this, it is hard to face reality when relationships turn out badly.

The image of the perfect relationship has been ruined by our lack of commitment and actual feelings for one another.

Liking someone purely on their social status is relevant in our generation also.

This is simply not okay.

Whoever started this trend of thinking that status of a person is an essential facet to a relationship in high school should reevaluate their priorities in life.

High school should be about learning, making new friends and trying new classes. Having distractions added on to the pressures of dating someone is very difficult.

The dating culture in high school has changed so much, and not for the better.

There are people who are getting their feelings hurt by other people deciding that they just do not feel like “dating” anymore. This is absolutely ridiculous to me.

Having a higher level

that if you make enough money and are enough of an asset to a company, the forces that will be will look the other way, and will only intervene when unflattering coverage in the media makes it absolutely necessary (or, as in Trump’s case, there was no real punishment, and he was elected as president).

So, maybe at first glance, O’Reilly’s firing seemed like a win for women and human decency.

However, O’Reilly’s situation brings to light the need for men to be held accountable for their words and actions, now matter how influential they are.

70% of teens text their boyfriend/ girlfriend more than they talk on the phone.

66% of high school and college students admit to having had their heart broken.

of maturity can make a relationship work or even last longer, but the statistics show that only 2 percent of marriages today are from a high school relationship.

So why waste your time getting your feelings hurt over people who cannot make up their mind, when you could focus on your education?

My call to action for us, as a generation, is to put ourselves out there and actually connect with people, not just use social media. Do not let society run our lives, but instead, be a leader and do something about it.

We need to go out into the world with an open mind and see what we find.

THE

WOOSTER

BLADE

Editors-in-Chief Sarah Hopkins, Nate KingSmith Webmaster Alexander Thompson Graphics Managers Spencer Dilyard, Matthew Lorentz Design Managers Estelle Shaya, Isabelle Cannon Business Managers Grant Peabody, Estelle Shaya On Campus Editors Drosos Kardulias, Tatumn McGrew, Kayla Cooper Focus Editors Austin McCully, Ryan Miller, Sports Editors A & E Editors Kayla Barnet, Nick Cosmo Trends Editors Olivia Sleek Cover Editors Erin O’Donnell, Amber Swigart, Valerie Anderson, Hannah Knapic Views Editors Evan Doan, Maureen McKeown Feature Editors Hanna Morgan, Emma Strong Staff Writers Madison Culver-Lee, Alexis Florence, Jacob Gooch, John Gorman, Adam Kirk, Holly Miller, Christopher Roche, Samuel Schonfeld, Leah Sim, Rachel Dugan Wood Head Photographer Grant Peabody Photographers Madison Culver-Lee, Hannah Knapic, Tracy Morgan, Chelsea Patterson Artists Jess Lyons, Evan Rice, Leah Sim Adviser Kristi Hiner The Wooster Blade is a biweekly student publication printed every other Friday by the Newspaper Production classes at Wooster High School. The paper is designated as an open forum and follows publishing guidelines as established in a district-wide publications policy protecting students’ freedom of expression. All copy, art and photography are property of The Wooster Blade and cannot be reproduced without permission. Letters to the editor are limited to 300 words and The Wooster Blade reserves the right to print and edit as per length and content. The Wooster Blade is a member of Quill and Scroll, National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association. The Wooster Blade is printed in cooperation with Wooster’s The Daily Record.

Letters and inquiries should be addressed to The Wooster Blade, 515 Oldman Road Wooster, Ohio 44691. The Wooster Blade can be contacted at 330-345-4000 ext. 3210.

The newspaper can also be found at the woosterblade.com

THE VOICE OF WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL

THE WOOSTER BLADE | VIEWS | APRIL 28, 2017 | PAGE 16

OUR VIEW

AP test review interferes with activities As the school year nears its end, WHS students are caught in the overlap of testing and spring sports.

AP classes, quickly approaching their end-ofyear exams, hold study sessions before and after school in order to prepare students. Likewise, spring sports require crucial practicing for the final meets, matches and games of their seasons.

For students who have an overlap between the two, a dilemma, regarding the prioritization of time, can easily arise. When a conflict arises between academics beyond the school day and sports, each side advocates that a student abandon the other. Rather than working to resolve conflicts between themselves, teachers and coaches pass communication over such issues to students, causing miscommunication between the two parties.

The Wooster Blade Editorial Board advocates there should be greater communication between teachers and coaches in order to resolve conflicts and make choices easier for students, instead of ignoring that students have many demands outside of that class/activity. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board also suggests the administration play a part in directing such communication, as to implement a successful plan that could be put into play in coming years.

The Wooster Blade Editorial Board believes

that rather than being torn between mandatory practices and study sessions that conflict, students should have a choice in how they prioritize their time.

To give students a choice in activities, coaches should allow students to miss practices for study sessions, and teachers should be willing to accommodate students who cannot attend every study session that takes place outside of school.

Doing so could easily reduce the stress put upon students as they try to attend both practices and study sessions, especially for students who are taking multiple AP tests.

THERE SHOULD BE GREATER COMMUNICATION BETWEEN TEACHERS AND COACHES IN ORDER TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS AND MAKE CHOICES EASIER FOR STUDENTS. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board would also like to bring to light that AP study sessions should not be obligatory. According to Tyler Egli, WHS Guidance

Counselor, “[AP reviews] are just supposed to be study sessions; study sessions are made to help you take the test.” Egli added that teachers cannot require attendance or issue grades at study sessions, as some teachers have been doing, forcing students to rearrange their schedules and work out conflicts with coaches.

Communication over issues between staff has already been recognized as essential by the administration. The WHS handbook states, “The advisors and coaches will cooperate and eliminate as many conflicts as possible.

Communication and cooperation from the staff will aid the situation...

Every effort will be made in the scheduling process to eliminate gross conflict between different activities.” Since it has already recognized such communication as necessary, the administration should increase its efforts to promote it.

With this communication, it should be established to students that study sessions are not mandatory, but that coaches are willing to make the necessary arrangements to allow students to attend them if desired.

It is the hope of The Wooster Blade Editorial Board that conflicts between sports and academics can be reduced, so students may balance their responsibilities appropriately and reduce stress over conflicts.