Tiger Times Aug. 2020

tiger times STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL

TIGER TIMES

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL TEXARKANA, TEXAS VOL. 60, ISSUE 1 AUGUST 2020

3 photo by peyton sims

Principal Carla Dupree answers questions about going back to school

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Junior discusses benefits of wearing masks

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Senior Miracle Shephard describes her experience with COVID-19

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Sports schedules get overhaul after season start dates get moved

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Wicks named district teacher of year English and Latin teacher Kara Wicks was named the TISD Secondary Teacher of the Year.

She now moves forward for consideration as Region VIII Teacher of the Year.

Assistant principal joins THS

By Peyton Sims Editor in Chief

The TISD board of trustees approved the hiring of Thomas & Horton, LLP as the firm to search for the new superintendent following the resignation of Paul Norton who took over as superintendent of Lake Travis ISD. The application deadline is Oct. 2.

This upcoming school year is bound to look different than any other–– including some unfamiliar faces patrolling the halls. Lucia Ochoa is stepping up from Westlawn Elementary to Texas High as assistant principal in the place of Joni Kerby, who retired. Ochoa’s new beginning had its unexpected hassles due to coronavirus; however, nothing can step in the way of her bright future.

“This is my eleventh year in education and my fourth year as an administrator. I’m super excited to get into work with some amazing people,” Ochoa said. “I know that Texas High has a really strong administration team, which is really committed, compassionate and overall, are just amazing teachers. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them and to see our amazing students learn from them.”

It’s never a bad idea to gain a little insight on the new staff members before returning to school, whether it be in-person or online. When she’s off of the school campus, Ochoa has a couple hobbies of her own.

“I am blessed to be able to spend my time with my mom, kids and husband. I spend my time on a small farm when I’m not at school. We are animal lovers, so either we’re spending time with dogs, cats, goats, horses and chickens, or we’re learning about animals,” Ochoa said. “I also like to spend my time trying to bake some gluten-free treats. My little boy and I have celiac disease. However, we still really love everything that we can’t have. I love trying to make things that we can still enjoy.”

Teachers across the district, new and old, have had to make adjustments to their classrooms and their traditional teaching methods. With this being the start of Ochoa’s first year holding her new position, it’s expected for there to be an occasional obstacle standing in the way.

“We’re definitely going to be facing a different situation and circumstances, and we’re just going to have to learn to navigate and do what we can. I don’t want this to keep us from building relationships. However, I truly believe that in the middle of difficulty, there are opportunities,” Ochoa said. “I’m looking forward to taking whatever steps we need to, whether that is meeting with [students] through a virtual meeting or making myself available to have phone conversations with them. I want them to know whether it is on the other side of the screen or on the other side of the phone, or even six feet apart, I want to be there, and I’m going to be there.”

Ochoa has already begun deciding on new implementations that will enhance the campus and benefit everyone within it.

The changes range from smaller alterations to the decision of

The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals selected Carla Dupree as the Region VIII Outstanding Principal of the Year. She will be recognized during an awards dinner at the 2021 TASSP Summer Conference in Austin.

Senior picture retakes set for Sept. 1 Seniors who missed getting their portraits made will have the opportunity on Sept.

1 during retakes. Notices regarding appointments will be sent to students via email.

Watermelon supper postponed The Watermelon supper, the annual back-to-school event and pep rally, has been postponed said Student Council adviser Susan Waldrep. They hope to reschedule the event in mid to late September.

Submit story ideas or other items for the newspaper to publications@ txkisd.net

DELIVERY DAY Some of the 2020 yearbook editors, Julia Whitehorn, Haley Wood, Raven Ivory and Merideth Green, pass out yearbooks Aug. 3. The yearbook delivery was late because of delays in printing caused by COVID-19. Those who still need to pick up books should email Rebecca Potter at rebecca.potter@txkisd. net. photo by peyton sims

A new face, a new beginning

Search has begun for new superintendent

TASSP selects Dupree as outstanding principal

tigertimesonline.com • August 2020

A NEW FACE Coming from Westlawn Elementary, Lucia Ochoa takes on the position of assistant principal. One of her goals is to help bridge the communication gap with Spanish-speaking students. photo by peyton sims

encouraging the additional use of Spanish on Texas High’s media with the hope of breaking any language barriers.

“The biggest change would be helping to bridge the gap in communication with the Spanish speaking population that our school serves at. We understand that positive relationships with families are key to the success of our students,” Ochoa said. “However, we realize that there are several families that are not able to partner up with us because of a language barrier.

Therefore, I would like to help empower our bilingual students and look for ways to better serve our Spanish speaking families.

I want to work with our students to help them be proactive and focus on their goals and the decisions that will pay them closer to those goals.”

As students begin gathering up their school supplies and begin to dread the thought of messing up their summer sleeping schedule, staff and faculty members anticipate having a class of kids to finally teach. Whether students attend in-person or virtually, everyone is working hard to give them an enjoyable and safe school year.

“My co-workers as well as I know that so many of us are experiencing anxiety, naturally. We are facing complicated times and are navigating unknown waters,” Ochoa said. “As uncertain as it seems to be, I would say, let’s remain focused on what is in the circle of our control. We need to charge full force at our goals and let God handle the things that we can’t control.

To my co-workers, I would like them to remember why they decided to commit to the education of our students, to this noble profession in general and to remember their passion. To all, I would say to continue to commit to being lifelong learners and never let their effort be questionable. We are Tiger strong and we will overcome this difficult time together.” peyton.sims@tigertimesonline.com

August 2020 • tigertimesonline.com

The reality of reopening

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Principal discusses resuming classes

By Doug Kyles News Editor In the pre-pandemic world, with the end of summer came a familiar pattern. For years, students would prepare to return to classes in the same ways they always have. After all, the process was the same year after year, with little change aside from who was leading the classroom.

Obviously, nothing will be familiar about the coming 2020-2021 year. Many students are left wondering what form their education will take when classes resume, and they aren’t alone; teachers and administrators lack a complete picture all the same. For the most part, this year will require extensive learning as you go, this time, for teachers as well.

Carla Dupree, returning as principal for her third and most unfamiliar year yet, is here to field the tough questions we’re all asking ourselves about what to expect.

How are you anticipating the coming school year and the obvious challenges of creating a safe learning environment?

I’m actually very excited about the school year. It’s obviously going to look different as some will be on campus and others will be remote learners, but I’m very excited that we have the opportunity to give that choice, so that students and parents can do what’s best for them. I’m looking forward to growing and learning from this experience. Anytime you’re challenged, it’s an opportunity for growth. I think we’re going to see our staff rise to that occasion, at a campus and district level, so that we can better serve our kids.

What is TISD prioritizing for the coming year: returning back to education or creating an environment with minimal health risks?

It’s hard to actually separate those two because you really can’t have one without the other. Safety has driven every conversation we’ve had at district level leadership meetings as well as at campus level meetings. As you know, when you’re on campus, the education [we provide] is top notch. For remote learners, it’s not going to look like last spring; it’ll be real school. We want our remote learners to get the quality education they would get if they were on campus.

Where has the school sourced information about COVID-19 and the risks of returning?

We’re taking all [data] into consideration. We have a new [health coordinator] in our district, Heather Spohn, and she is getting information from the CDC. We’re listening to the TEA, the guidance of our state and local governments, and we even have Dr. Matt Young, who is advising our community with specific information. It’s not a case of ‘either or’, it’s the more information we have, the better.

What do you predict will be the biggest obstacle in returning to school?

At first, it’s gonna be the organization of it: retraining with these safety protocols and retraining

BACK TO WORK Principal Carla Dupree talks with receptionist Tarra Tidwell while maintaining social distance and wearing her mask. Other safety measures, such as plexiglass barriers, have been put in place to protect students and staff. photo by peyton sims

in our minds what school is going to look like.

For example, we are going to have far less kiddos on campus, so that’s going to help with the [social distancing]. We’re just going to have to change our paradigm to prioritize safety. I believe getting everyone to understand that this isn’t about discipline, it’s about safety, could be challenging.

Will students be able to move to virtual learning should they choose? If so, are virtual learners also allowed to return in person at any time?

Yes, if they begin the year on-site then later feel like they need to move to remote learning, students and parents can choose that at any time. Now on the second part of your question, no. Should you start off remote, you will only get an opportunity to change your mind at the end of each grading period.

Do you feel that any one choice for returning, online or on-site, will be beneficial to learning?

I think that because we are offering similar options, you can get the same experience.

Here, I really believe that there’s not a wrong choice.

One of the most important things is for students and parents to feel safe.

What is the current plan for the class rank and GPA system? Can we expect class ranking or possibly a temporary pause like last semester?

As far as GPA and class rank goes, one of the conversations that I’m having with teachers, our admin team, and students is the realization that remote learning will be just like school. If an on-site student has two days to complete an assignment, that remote learner has two days to complete the same assignment with consistent quality. This is to make it consistent and comparable so that it’s fair to everyone when we look at GPA and class rank this semester.

What can we expect for large gatherings, such as athletic events, theater performances, band concerts and more?

We’re looking at how to provide the social distancing and safety protocols so we can honor all of our traditions. Unfortunately, some of those traditions and gatherings may not happen or look different, but that’s one of my favorite parts of Texas High, our traditions, so we’re trying to hold on to those as best we can. Whenever [teachers, club sponsors, or faculty members] are proposing a student gathering, they have to fill a form out that goes to the central office, and then there’s a committee that evaluates it and gives them the approval on if we actually go forward with the activity.

How is the school planning to avoid the transmission risks that crowded transition periods would create?

One thing is we’ll have less students on campus, and that will help quite a bit, actually. Another thing is, when you’re in transition, you’re going to have to wear your mask, buff, or gaiter. The district is actually providing every student with a buff so everybody will have one. You also have your choice of mask, and some of those have gotten quite stylish, so it’s not as horrible as one would imagine. Basically, if we’re in a situation where we can’t social distance, then we have to do our part to protect ourselves and protect others.

What can we expect for the cafeteria setting? Will it resemble anything like the structure it followed last year?

Number one, we’re gonna have less [students]. Those in football third period are going to actually have the lunches brought down to football. That gives us more room to move around during those three lunches because that’s 145 students [absent from] the last lunch.

That gives us some wiggle room where we can spread people out. We’ll have about 300 seats available in the cafeteria and will designate those with stickers on the seat, so you’ll know where to social distance. We’re also going to add a little more seating outside, so I think we’ll be able to manage it.

See REOPENING on page 4

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REOPENING from page 3 Do you expect the mask policy to be followed completely, and in the event it is not, how will teachers and assistant principals enforce it?

I think I would be very naive if I thought that it was going to be followed completely. I mean, what policy do we have that is followed completely? But that’s to be expected; it’s the nature of the game. Here’s the important realization: this isn’t about discipline, it’s about safety. [Students] have a choice: you can choose to be on-site or you can choose remote learning. If you choose on-site, then you’re agreeing to our safety protocol. If you don’t want to agree to our safety protocol, I don’t even want to have a conversation with you about ISS. You’re saying to me, you need to go remote. You’re either going to be on board and do what’s right to protect your neighbor and yourself, or you can go home and not wear a mask.

How do you feel our school dealt with the pandemic in the final months of last year? Are there any major weaknesses you saw that will be improved on this year?

I think we did as good as we could do, because [the situation] was just unbelievable. I think coming out the other side, we developed some relationships with our liaisons, kids and parents which were pretty neat.

Our teachers that started out really uncomfortable with the technology, stepped out, grew professionally, and added some tools to their toolbox that are going to be very beneficial for them this year and for years to come.

Obviously, I think the biggest issue was the fact that not everybody has access to remote learning, the right technology devices, or Wi Fi. And that’s something that

tigertimesonline.com • August 2020 as a district, we’re working hard to make sure is not a barrier for anyone. We’ve got some conversations that have happened at the district level with businesses, a certain grant that gives the ability to provide some Wi Fi, and some devices for families in need. I think you’re going to see that make a big difference.

How can the school protect teachers who have conditions that leave them more vulnerable to COVID-19?

They have a form they can fill out if they want to request a remote position where they’re able to teach from home. However, it is a request, it’s not necessarily going to be granted. It certainly will be considered because the safety of our Tiger family is the most important thing. Beyond that, we’re going to work very hard to keep our [case] numbers down in our classrooms as best we can. Also, we have invested in disinfecting machinery, and our custodians have been schooled in the best methods and practice. We are actually adding some water bottle refill stations instead of water faucets and fountains. And then we’re also going to be able to provide our teachers with more sanitizer and face shields for them as well as masks.

Are there any other big changes to the school day you haven’t yet discussed? If so, could you describe them?

Students will have to wear masks on transportation as well. As far as the buses go, after school it’s going to be important that if you don’t have an organized, approved practice or meeting, students exit campus as soon as possible, because we’re going to need to start that intensive cleaning of the campus. Know that visitors are going to be limited on campus. It’s going to

be that unless someone has to come up here in person, visitors will not be allowed on campus. Also, the staff and the student body are going to be asked to do self screenings. Each student will get a questionnaire that will have different questions to test for COVID-19.

You’ll fill that out in your first period class, and teachers are doing that as well. If anyone is showing any symptoms or is sick at all, they just need to stay home.

Is there any chance that, should cases spike in this area, our school will temporarily shut down once again?

Ideally, we’re going to be able to remain both on campus and online. But as we saw in the spring, sometimes there are situations that call for measures that you didn’t see coming. And one thing I’ve learned through all this is you never say never. The goal is to provide a safe environment for kids, staff, and faculty, but I certainly can’t rule out the possibility that we may face something similar to what we faced in the spring.

However, the difference is we’re going to be better prepared for that.

Who or what individuals have helped the most in planning for this unusual year? Is there anyone you would like to praise for their efforts?

I’ve been so impressed with the team effort from the central office, to instructional services, to the individual campuses. I’ve gotten in touch with my department chairs, our teachers, and held meetings that have all of us working together. Many are better than one, so there’s not been one person that has done it all. I think each person has taken their area and just worked really hard to make coming back safely a possibility for us. doug.kyles@tigertimesonline.com

August 2020 • tigertimesonline.com

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opinion

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Protect TIGER TIMES Texas High School 4001 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX (903) 794-3891 Fax (903) 792-8971 The Tiger Times is a student-run publication. The contents and views are produced solely by the staff and do not represent the opinions of the faculty, administration or TISD board of directors.

editors in chief Cate Rounds Peyton Sims managing editors Logan Diggs Sophie Spakes news editor Doug Kyles feature editor Stephanie Jumper opinion editor Aislyn Echols sports editor Caden Rainwater culture editor Mikayla Zverina advertising Bailey Hawkins copy editor Phoebe Neff business manager Emma Hickerson photo & social media editors Abby Elliott assignments editor Caden Rainwater video editor Assad Malik staff writers Emma Allen, Taylor Bayonne, Gabrielle Boswell, Graci Henard, Makenzie Hofert, Olivia Huckabee, Reese Langdon, Macy Maynard, Braden McKinnon, Margaret Mutoke, Kate Pappas, Maria Rangel, Zoe Rushing, Alexandria York photographers Olivia Ardnt, Bethany Arnold, Carrigan Brush, Abby Bunch, Michelle Gonzales, Brooke Knight, EmmaGrace Kuhl, Jonathan Naples, Angela Olalde, Sydney Rowe, Madison Freeman, Teresa Sanchez videographers Logan Diggs, Nazaret Vasquez graphics Allyson Smith advisers Rebecca Potter, Clint Smith principal Carla Dupree members ILPC, CSPA, NSPA

the

people

Masks are vital in battling coronavirus pandemic

By Stephanie Jumper Feature Editor grahic by allyson smith

Over the past six months, a new COVID-19 controversy seems to sweep the headlines as fast as victims contract the illness.

One of the first debates was whether to abandon long awaited Spring Break vacation plans. The pandemic’s spread later demanded more and more businesses to shut down. A portion of Americans survived on stimulus checks and jobs that put their lives on the line.

Then, the problem became reopening schools without turning a day of class into a death sentence.

Now, we’re used to the pandemic.

We’re used to changing our lifestyles to accommodate a few germs that managed to travel the world. We’re so accustomed to our new lives that some people don’t see a point in protecting from the virus at all.

In an odd twist of fate, one of 2020’s most controversial items is a piece of cloth that covers the mouth and nose.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends wearing masks “when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain” due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The CDC claims wearing them, combined with maintaining six feet of distance from others, is crucial in recovering from this crisis.

Experts’ push for masks has blurred lines for many regarding individual rights vs. protecting the people. Anti-maskers have stormed social media claiming freedom comes before the pandemic. The rallying cries of the movement have spread across the news as fast as germs are spreading across the nation. With Texas adjusting to the mask mandate, people are left with difficulty breathing through such restrictive fabric.

The cloth is far from comfortable.

However, according to experts, it could save lives if used correctly.

Using masks correctly means sporting one that covers the nose, mouth and chin, removing it by touching only its ties and

encouraging others to practice the same measures. Gloves are helpful in combating the virus, but while these items protect the individual, masks protect the population.

When you’re wearing a glove, you’re protecting yourself and only yourself from contaminated surfaces. Masks, on the other hand, are vital in herd immunity. Some researchers predict 80 percent of Americans wearing a mask outside may prove more effective in declining COVID-19 cases than lockdowns. If 95 percent of people dawn the face covering, “33,000 deaths could be avoided

by Oct. 1,” according to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME).

While these facts are compelling, sources like the CDC and IHME can only persuade the public to protect themselves. They do not have the power to force a mask on Americans.

The power lies in the government, who are taking more measures to put the people’s safety first than during the pandemic’s beginnings.

Gov. Greg Abbott implemented a rule requiring masks in public for most Texas counties effective July 3. There are several exceptions to this rule. Abbott allows those under 10 years old to go maskless, despite the CDC’s notion that healthy people over 1 year old should practice this precaution. Others that are not required to follow the mandate include “people who have a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, people who are eating or drinking, and people who are exercising outdoors.”

Each of these exceptions keep us away from living germ free lives. Each 7 year old that breathes freely in public keeps us from meeting that 80 to 95 percent. Each restaurant goer in an anti-mask county is a cough away from spreading the virus to strangers. Try as we might to stop the spread, each step outside could be a corona confrontation.

These scenarios sound as if the solution to the pandemic is to cut off all ties with humanity, but social distancing is not what’s

solving the problem. You can stay six feet away from everyone at all times. You can wash your hands like the world depends on it. You can stock up on every glove brand at Target.

These precautions are encouraged, but social distancing and scrubbing germs away aren’t as effective as masks. While it is possible, the virus typically isn’t contracted through physical contact, but through inhaled respiratory droplets, which the masks lower the probability of spreading to others.

The facts are in the piece of cloth’s favor, but many will always have their reasons to ignore its success.

“They’re uncomfortable.”

“They’re hard to breathe in.”

“They make me feel like I’m stripped of my rights.”

However, the thought of not wearing a mask can become even more uncomfortable, breath restricting and right stripping for others. It protects more than one’s immune system. It protects the human psyche.

When one is masked up, a sense of safety is elevated. Anxiety isn’t an unsurprising result of these unprecedented times. According to Hartford Healthcare, COVID-19 mentally damages several age groups, especially “people ages 18 to 29 more, with 42 percent reporting anxiety and 36 percent depression.”

Part of this anxiety is most likely brought on by fear of falling victim to the virus. A fear of every breath we take resulting in a deadly disease. A fear that small acts of others’ carelessness resulting in a life restricted by breathing tubes. Sporting a mask can provide comfort to those around us, easing these understandable anxieties.

In the past few months, there have been several controversies surrounding the pandemic, but none are as senseless as the idea of whether or not to wear a mask. For the physical and mental well-being of others, never underestimate the power of a piece of fabric. stephanie.jumper@txkisd.net

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Disease at your doorstep

tigertimesonline.com • August 2020

Senior describes contracting COVID-19, outlook on new year

By Doug Kyles News Editor In our new reality, it can seem like every precaution taken, whether social distancing or wearing masks, is to combat an unseen enemy. At this point, our area has been fortunate with the number of cases we’ve seen of COVID-19, at least when compared to the cityscapes struggling with millions infected.

However, when coronavirus first reached our student population, it left one Texas High student with a unique story to tell.

When senior Miracle Shephard encountered the coronavirus in March, it wasn’t shocking, considering her mother, Tomicka Okereke, is on the front lines against the pandemic.

“She got it from one of her patients,” Miracle said. “She works in the ER, and when she left work, she wanted to get [her family] tested.”

Miracle’s family was on edge when they learned of their mother’s possible exposure. The news came during a time when hysteria around the virus was at an all time high, which only compounded their fears. The lethality of the virus was reported differently everyday as studies rushed to pinpoint how dangerous the novel virus was. This uncertainty panicked those exposed to the virus.

Because of this, Miracle and her family were quick to take the necessary steps after being exposed to the virus.

“At first, I said I didn’t feel well,” Miracle said. “My mom said there’s a chance I could have it, and I needed to be tested. So the next day, we went to the hospital and went through all the ER’s procedures. The next day, we found out I [tested positive].”

The procedures to test for COVID-19 are notoriously uncomfortable. And for Miracle, being tested was a challenge in and of itself.

“First they have to test for strep and flu,” Miracle said. “That is really hard because the test for strep is a long swab into the back of your throat, which hurts.

And then the flu [test] too, which is two swabs [inserted into] the nose. Then you wait two hours for them to tell you if it is either one of those, and for me it wasn’t.”

With the possibility of other illnesses

ruled out, and then with a positive COVID test a day later, Miracle had to face reality. She had the deadly disease that the news couldn’t stop talking about and no idea where to go from there.

“At first, I was in denial,” Miracle said.

“I thought that I couldn’t have it and something must have gone wrong. Then I realized I did, and with that, came fear but mostly complete shock.”

After the test, came precaution after precaution as to not spread the virus to her family.

“I’d just been in the same room,” Miracle said. “I couldn’t go out of my room for anything besides the bathroom, which is right across the hall. My stepdad would bring me food by setting it right outside the door for me. It took at least six days for it to leave my system, and then 14 [days isolating] after that.”

It was hard for Miracle to imagine herself being forced to stay so confined in such a small place week after week. No doubt, this is a challenge many of us can sympathize with right now, after months of doing the same.

One of the most difficult challenges to grasp is her experience with a wide range of new symptoms. Unlike the flu or common cold, which most are familiar with, Miracle had no way to predict the ways the virus would affect her.

“I couldn’t taste anything,” Miracle said. “You don’t really feel hungry or normal at all. There is a constant minor headache and a stuffy nose. And doing the smallest task, like getting up and walking just two feet is exhausting.”

Even with these symptoms, Miracle and those who contract the virus without requiring hospitalization often consider themselves lucky. While COVID-19 is no common cold, it is certainly a much worse ordeal for some than others.

However, Miracle’s encounter with the virus didn’t put her life in any inevitable danger, and that she is grateful for. Just like many, she’s looking forward to the days where this disease is behind us.

“People are just so scared of the coronavirus, and some [thought that I] might die,” Miracle said. “However, I’ve lived through coronavirus so far, and I can’t wait for the day when I can say I

TAKE PRECAUTIONS Senior Miracle Shephard, who caught the coronavirus in March, urges students to wear masks and social distance. photo by peyton sims

survived. If I can do it, you can do it. You can survive too.”

Miracle went on to recover completely from coronavirus by early April. In the months since then, she’s experienced the same quarantine we’ve gone through, even though she’s already witnessed the toll the virus takes.

“I still take quarantine completely seriously,” Miracle said. “I will sometimes eat out and see friends, but I wear my mask and stay six feet away.”

This is the new reality we’ve all found ourselves in. And while life is slowly getting back to normal, safety measures must be put in place for the foreseeable future, as to not cause more spikes in cases as we reopen. One of the most publicized measures is the decision to mandate masks, made by Governor Greg Abbott’s office.

“I’m actually really happy that they’ve made masks mandatory because [COVID-19] has gotten worse in Texarkana,” Miracle said. “I work at a food place, and feel that if I have to wear a mask to keep you safe then you should be able to keep me safe by also wearing one.”

Miracle’s mother, as a healthcare professional, confirms the merit of masks, along with other necessary precautions to make a return to school safe as possible.

“My best advice for students who are coming back is to wear their mask,” Okereke said. “[They should] wash their hands or sanitize their hands, and make sure they’re not touching their face and try to socially distance when possible.”

However, as we know, many will not return to in person school, at least for the first six week grading period. And while those who do this are avoiding some physical health risks, it’s likely that not seeing peers daily will have some mental health ramifications. For this, Nurse Okereke has a different set of

recommendations.

“The students who aren’t coming back, it’s really important to try to stay connected to their friends,” Okereke said. “That’s calling them, Facetiming.

You know, whatever you can do to make sure you still stay connected and feel like you’re still part of the team.”

This isn’t to say that it’s all up to those who stay home to stay connected.

According to Okereke, the responsibility falls equally to those returning in person to keep up contact with their friends, for everyone’s benefit.

“To the students who are coming to school, please don’t forget about your friends who are at home,” Okereke said.

“Reach out to them and check on them, make sure they’re going OK and make sure that you let them know that you still care about them.”

A piece of our student body will be missing from our school, making for an unprecedented, alien school year. Miracle, like many coming seniors, is wary of how much, or if, her senior year will feel like a senior year at all.

“My hopes are that I get to experience my senior year, unlike the class of 2020,” Miracle said. “I wish everything would go back the same and stay the same, but unfortunately, that’s not how it’s going to go.”

Whatever the future situation requires to combat the virus, a normal school year or not, Miracle is thankful that when the disease touched her own life, her and her loved ones prevailed. She notes the gratitude she has for making it through the ordeal, and reminds others that odds are, should they be infected, they will survive too.

“I had [COVID-19] and I survived,” Miracle said. “It’s not the end of the world if you get it, and that’s what I want to remind everyone.” doug.kyles@tigertimesonline.com

August 2020 • tigertimesonline.com

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VARSITY FOOTBALL

Sept. 18 Sept. 24 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Nov. 27 Dec. 4

PUTTING IN THE WORK Offensive coordinator Clint Toon advises the offensive line as they run different plays.

Even with the delay of football season, the team has continued to work through preseason. photo by caden rainwater

So who gets the axe?

Annual rivalry game canceled

By Caden Rainwater Sports Editor Year after year, decade after decade, almost an entire century later, and one event has continued to bring together the alumni and fans of both Arkansas High School and Texas High School.

The Battle of the Axe, as it’s commonly known, has seen the many triumphs and defeats of the two schools, dating back to years when most of us didn’t exist.

“The last break [where the rivalry game wasn’t played] was in the 1940s or ‘50s,” Athletic Director Gerry Stanford said. “The game has so much historical value for the town.”

However, in light of the pandemic that has spread across the nation, the University Interscholastic League, which administers Texas high school events, and the Arkansas Activities Association, which administers Arkansas high school events, have come into a conflict where the two state’s schedules did not have room for

the pre-season rivalry game, resulting in its termination.

“There are always very high hopes to play this game,” Stanford said.

“Since the two organizations did not have an aligned calendar, both schools lost the sense of that natural rivalry, which has always been a great tradition for both schools and fans.”

Ever since March, COVID-19 has taken its toll on countless events and traditions, and like all of these traditions, it’s simply heartbreaking to witness the loss of what could have been.

“This will be my senior season, and of course, every year the rivalry game between our two schools rolls around and it gets very hyped up, and it’s always a great experience,” senior kicker Oscar Hernandez said. “So it’s just really difficult to think about how much we took for granted, and now we’re kind of just being trained to roll with the punches.”

This termination will result in a replacement game filled in by the

Denison Yellow Jackets. A small addition to an entirely remodeled schedule for the upcoming season.

“We’re excited to welcome the highly ranked Denison High School to our schedule,” Stanford said. “With everything going on, we expected anything to happen, so we’ll just have to see how this addition affects us.”

With the termination of the rivalry game in mind, as well as the delay of the beginning of high school football practices for schools that are under the domain of UIL’s 5A and 6A conferences until Sept. 7, athletes and coaches are simply holding out for a season whatsoever.

“Of course the ignition for the season was supposed to be The Battle of the Axe, but at the end of the day, a lot of plans have changed,” Hernandez said. “We’re just a bunch of athletes hoping to make memories, and for some of us, get seen by college coaches, and at the end of the day, all we need is a season.” caden.rainwater@tigertimesonline.com

Longview John Tyler Denison Forney (Hoco Open Mt. Pleasant Hallsville Marshall Pine Tree Jacksonville Nacogdoches Whitehouse

Away Away Home Home Away Home Away Home AWay Away Home

VARSITY VOLLEYBALL

Sept. 18 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 2 Oct. 6 Oct. 10 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 23 Oct. 27 Oct. 30 Nov. 3 Nov. 6 Nov. 13

Royce City John Tyler Pine Tree Sulphur Springs Hallsville Longview Mt. Pleasant Marshall Pine Tree Sulphur Springs Hallsville Longview Mt. Pleasant Marshall

Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Away

VARSITY TENNIS

Sept. 8 Sept. 11 Sept. 12 Sept. 15 Sept. 19 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 3 Oct. 6 Oct. 10 Oct. 20

Pine Tree Bentonville Lakeside Sulphur Springs Midlothian Hallsville Marshall All Saints Mt. Pleasant Wills Point Longview

Away Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Away Away Home

10 community

tigertimesonline.com • August 2020

August 2020 • tigertimesonline.com

THE CULTURE 10

Wear your mask

Students will be wearing face masks during the transition time between classes and inside the classroom if six feet isn’t between two people. If a student is caught with their face not covered, they will be given a warning.

If they don’t comply, they will not be allowed to remain on campus.

Multiple warnings will also result in not being allowed on campus.

Mandatory ID This year, it will be mandatory for everyone on campus to wear their student identification whether it be on a lanyard or clipped to their clothing. Before school begins, if you desire, try to find a fashionable lanyard or a way to tie it into your outfit–– your lanyard could even match your mask!

Water refill stations

There will be an alternative for staying hydrated opposed to the water fountains this year. Water bottle refilling stations will be located across campus to act as a more sanitary option, as well an environmentallyfriendly addition. These have been ordered, and we are waiting on their arrival.

Soapy situation Year after year, our cries have finally been heard. Soap dispensers have been promised to be in each bathroom on campus by the start of school in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In order to follow health precautions, hand sanitizer and masks will also be located around campus.

Class rank and GPA One of the biggest questions students have been asking is what will determine their class rank and GPA. Despite the circumstances, the grading styles and weight of dual credit and AP classes will remain the same.

With this being said, if you’re doing online school, it’d only be fair for you to have the same deadlines as someone attending on-campus school.

What’s for lunch?

Lunches will definitely be different. To reduce the clutter in the cafeteria, more seating will be added outdoors, indoor tables and seats will be taped off, and football players will eat at practice to limit the lunch crowd.

Also, if you’re used to having a parent bring you lunch, that will temporarily not be allowed in order to reduce the amount of people stepping foot on campus.

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Inside the classroom

The students, as well as the teachers, are expected to social distance and stay six feet apart, especially if someone doesn’t have a mask on. Masks or buffs should stay covering everyone’s mouth and nose, and hand sanitizer will stay readily available.

New sidewalks If you’ve driven down Summerhill, it’s likely you’ve noticed the heavy amount of construction taking place. Soon there will be finished sidewalks on the left and right sides of the road to ensure safer travel for those students who walk or bike to and from school.

Texas vs Arkansas Online To everyone, one of the biggest heart breaks that coronavirus has brought is the cancellation of one of our beloved traditions: the Texas vs Arkansas game. This game has been played annually for over a century and due to the different football starting times between states, the game won’t be able to occur. To many, this means no Texas vs Arkansas week full of spirit days, pep rallies, car painting and bacon fries. Despite the cancellation of one of the most iconic weeks of the school year, that doesn’t mean school spirit will be forbidden.

overview Remote learners will be required to check into their classes daily, and they may be required to tune in live on occasion at the request of the teacher. Each new grading period, students can decide to start attending school in person again.

While none of us anticipated this, keep your head up. Brighter days are only growing closer.

Here’s to a great school year!

12 community

tigertimesonline.com • August 2020

START HERE

START EARLY With Texarkana College, you can start working toward your college degree before graduating high school.

Whether you want to take classes to transfer to a four-year university, or earn your Associate Degree while in high school, Texarkana College can help. Through dual credit, early admissions and summer classes, you can find the path that fits you best. To learn how to start your college journey talk to your academic advisor or visit texarkanacollege.edu/dualcredit

texarkanacollege.edu // (903) 823-3456 // 2500 N. Robison Rd. // Texarkana, Texas

TC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs or activities. The following person is designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Human Resources Director, 2500 N. Robison Rd., Texarkana, TX, 75599 or (903) 823-3017 human.resources@texarkanacollege.edu