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trojan tribune VOLUME 34, ISSUE 1
SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
Schmit fights reassignment • In the wake of his failing eyesight, teacher has initiated a public campaign By KATIE TALERICO EDITOR IN CHIEF
@k_talerico
Despite a public campaign, District 284 has rejected former teacher Peter Schmit’s appeals to be assigned back to Mo Pro.
After months of private discussion with the administration, Schmit turned to taxpayers, parents, and former students to send letters to the district, encouraging them to restore his former position. In May 2012, Principal Mike Trewick told Schmit
Screenshot from the Lakeshore News story in which Schmit went public in his dispute with District 284. Schmit had taught Modern Problems for 12 years before being reassigned to teach World History in fall 2012.
that he would be teaching tenth grade World History in the 2012-2013 school year. Schmit had taught the mandatory twelfth grade class, Modern Problems, for the previous twelve years. Schmit said the process of learning and reading coursework for a class he’d never taught before put a physical strain on his already failing eyesight. In December 2012, he was pronounced legally blind. “I worked hard to become a great World History teacher, but in the end my eyes gave out,” Schmit said. Before second term last year, he was placed on medical leave. “Under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), I’ve asked for reasonable accommodations,” Schmit said. “My eye doctor recommended that I teach something I have experience in.” In a September 2012 article in the Trojan Tribune, principal Mike Trewick said that Schmit had been reassigned due to a “curriculum review.” In a February 2013 letter to his eye doctor, Executive Director of Human Resources Annie Doughty said that Schmit had been reassigned due to the “disproportionate amount of failures he’d had in Fall 2011.” Trewick was unable to comment at this time due to personnel confidentiality. The number of failures in all sections of Mo Pro in term one of 2011 was unprecedented, according to Schmit. “That number usually bounces around two percent, a failure rate below other courses.” Fall 2011, the number was in the double digits across all Mo Pro classes, said Schmit. Schmit said the teachers took a variety of steps to address the failures, including referring students to the Alternative Learning Center and offering students a chance to repeat the term. “We had much success getting them to make up the credits,” Schmit said. “In the balance towards getting graduated and getting educated, the scale was tipping towards getting graduated,” said Schmit. Schmit described conflicts with the administration over maintaining SCHMIT the rigor of Mo Pro. These conflicts Cont’d page 8 amounted to permitting
THE TROJAN TRIBUNE
NEWS 2
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
3 phases for 10 years By DAVANTE WASHINGTON NEWS EDITOR
Rapid construction of two elementary schools on 101 is the outcome of the Wayzata school boards’ three phase plan to keep up with the increasing student numbers. Additions to Sunset Hill, Oakwood, and Greenwood elementary schools are nearly complete. These additions will bring short term relief to the three schools’ student capacity, said District Superintendent Chace Anderson. The additions are phase two of the three-phase plan described in Plans for Our Growing Student Enrollment, a fact sheet released by the Wayzata School Board in August. Phase one is a ten year plan to remedy maintenance and other needs that had been previously set aside. This plan will update all systems throughout the district including security systems, technological interfaces, computer software, heating and cooling systems, and would also entail the paving and repaving of parking lots. Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton signed an education bill May 22, 2013 that adds funding to public schools for all-day kindergarten over the next two years, according to MPR News. The all-day kindergarten program will require fourteen to sixteen extra classrooms. “The Board is also in the process of determining what action is needed to address the growing secondary student popula-
• School boards’ plans start to take shape tion,” said Anderson. Currently the school board and the middle school’s administrative bodies are determining how to readjust the different schools current layout, Anderson added. Several new housing developments have gone up in the Plymouth, Maple Grove, and Corcoran-Medina area, according to west metro real estate agent John Murphy. The high school is already at capacity. 900 more students are projected to enroll in the next ten years. “1,200 new homes have been built in the district over the past four years and at least another 1,600 new homes are expected to be built in the next four years,” according to Plans for Our Growing Student Enrollment fact sheet. While the school board has dealt with the expanding student populace at the elementary level, plans for expansion of the middle schools and high schools are still in development. School Board Chairwoman Sue Droegemueller said, “The board is not expected to vote on the entire project until the board meeting on October 14.” The District Administration has been working with Wold Architects and Engineers as well as respected organizations within the metro in order to analyze the impending growth within the district, said Anderson.
Submitted photo
Although not a final version, these are the early mock up designs by Wold . The image on the left shows a new design for the Athletic wing. Additions include 3 new basketball courts, 2 new locker rooms, and 2 new multipurpose rooms. The rock climbing wall will most likely not be in the final version of these designs.
Theatre department gets a new lead
Submitted photo
Above are the designs for culinary and the auditorium. Culinary features a new upper level and will no longer be intersected by a hallway. A smaller stage will be added to the auditorium wing as well as a new storage room and rehearsal room.
New Year, New Teachers According to Wayzata High S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R School Prin@MsSadieBell cipal Michael Trewick, WHS will receive thirteen new staff members this upcoming school year. WHS lost a number staff members last year, on grounds that are confidential, according to Trewick. Trewick said Wayzata High School will be receiving new staff members in the art, communications, ETD, math, social studies, and world language departments. Wayzata High School will also have a new guidance counselor, first floor associate principal, fourth floor associate principal, and achievement interventionist specialist, said Trewick “I was drawn to the high level of achievement in the district, in addition to the programs and resources available to students. I’m very excited to be a part of the WHS community,” said new 12th Grade Principal Jeff Pawlicki. Pawlicki has previously worked as an Assistant Principal at Prior Lake High School. “My number one goal for my first year is to build strong working relationships with students, staff, and parents,” said Pawlicki. “I’m fair, easy to talk to and my door is always open,” said Pawlicki. New 10th Grade Principal Amy Janecek said, “After spending time working in a district central office, I really missed the culture and energy of school. I missed working directly with By SADIE BELL
students, families, teachers, and staff.” Janecek previously worked as the middle grade’s Lead and Advanced Placement Coordinator for Minneapolis Public Schools. “I was very impressed with the incredible programs and resources available to students at WHS and look forward to being a part of this great community,” said Janecek. Janecek believes it is her task to ensure the safety of students, help them to stay focused on their academic success and long term goals, and support staff to be innovative and create a place where they can do their best work. “I think my previous students would say you can expect to find me as a good listener, someone that wants the best for kids and a place for students to come to unwind from all the stressors,” Guidance Counselor Amanda Randall said. “If I don’t have the answer, I will help you find it,” said Randall. Math teacher Janel Nilson said she will be teaching Math 2Y, Math 3, and Calculus Concepts for her first year of teaching at the high school. Nilson said, “I am originally from Minnesota, but lived in Dallas for seven years and Pennsylvania for two years. When I learned we were moving back to Minnesota, I immediately had my eyes peered on teaching in Wayzata,” “I am very excited to be here and am looking TEACHERS forward to a great Cont’d on pg. 6 year,” said Nilson.
By QUINN CULLUM S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R
Communications Teacher Adam Hegg has been chosen as the new theatre director after long-time theatre director David Doering’s departure. Hegg has taught at FAIR school and Stages Theatre Company for the last twelve years, when asked about his new teaching position Hegg said, “So far, I’m loving it here. I love meeting the kids and I love the energy.” After announcing his retirement in the Spring, David Doering and Jeff Dahl spoke with Hegg about potentially taking on WHS’s theatre department this Fall. “They felt very strongly about the kids here and were quite convincing,” Hegg said. Since the beginning of Wayzata’s theatre department, there been little movement from director to director. “He is the fourth director ever at WHS, so the fourth person I’ve had to train,” joked Cindy Beherns, Fine Arts Secretary. “While I appreciate what Mr. Doering did for the theatre department, I think that bringing in a new person with fresh taste
@QuinnCullum
will be a good thing for all of us, because we can get a new perspective on how to tackle new pieces and shows,” states Katie Hochmuth (12). While most students have not had the opportunity to meet Hegg yet, past FAIR students are thrilled with his position at WHS. “Mr. Hegg is one of the most inspiring teachers I have ever had. He makes learning fun,” said Mikaela Kendall (12). “Mr. Hegg is really here for the students and will work with them towards making this theatre department grow,” adds Abby Maas (12). This Fall, Hegg will be directing the musical “Kiss me, Kate.”. In addition to his work as a director, Hegg will join the communications department, teaching Dynamics of Speech, Introduction to Theatre, and Communications 10. Hegg seems eager and optimistic about this Fall at WHS, joking “I’m enjoying things here, no one’s sick of me yet.”
AUDITIONS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 9 For detailed information, visit www.bluewatertheatre.com
Rehearsals: Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6:00-8:30; Saturdays from 9:00-4:00 Performances: December 5-7, 2013
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
THE TROJAN TRIBUNE
ENTERTAINMENT 3
SUMMER MOVIE REVIEW Andrew Stern reveals what movies are worth watching, and what ones aren’t worth your time
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Top 5 Domestic Grosses 1. Despicable Me 2 ($350 million): With nearly all of the juxtaposition of a ‘bad guy turned good’ gone, this sequel to Despicable Me (2010) lacks much of the charm of its predecessor. Unlikeable characters that lack motivation, an unfunny and unfocused plot, and a cringe-worthy climax all contribute to this uninspired film. The label of a ‘kids film’ shouldn’t be a pass for laziness. 3/10. 2. Man of Steel ($290 million): In this visually stunning Zach Snyder Superman reboot, Henry Cavill stars as the alien from Krypton. While there are some interesting ideas presented, the plot-hole ridden script is on the stupider side. However, with a beautiful score, great performances (especially by Michael Shannon as General Zod), and breathtaking special effects, this superhero movie is a whole lot of fun to watch. 7/10 3. Monsters University ($262 million): This Pixar animated prequel to 2001’s Monsters Inc. is harmless enough. Starring Billy Crystal and John Goodman, there are some memorable and exciting moments in this kids’ film. There are also some interesting concepts passed up in favor of a safe and unoriginal formula.
While it is a definite step up from Cars 2 (2011) and Brave (2012), Monsters University is a far cry from Pixar’s best. 6/10. 4. World War Z ($199 million): Based on the 2006 Max Brooks novel, this zombie apocalypse thriller starring Brad Pitt takes the blockbuster approach rather than the political route. Despite some awkward edits and poorly filmed action shots, this is a remarkably entertaining movie. Tightly written and well paced, World War Z keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire movie. While it’s not exactly reinventing the zombie flick, this film is a great time, and one I wouldn’t mind revisiting. 8/10. 5. The Heat ($156 million): This buddy-cop comedy is directed by Paul Feig (Bridesmaids). Although a number of the jokes expectedly fall flat, a surprising amount of them work. The filmmakers tread a thin line with having main characters that are so unlikeable, but I rarely found myself annoyed with the movie. Logic and Realism cease to exist, the plot is haphazard, and many characters are severely underdeveloped, yet I still managed to enjoy myself. 6/10.
Stern’s Picks 6. Blue Jasmine: In this Woody Allen drama, Cate Blanchett stars as a narcissistic socialite who is forced to move in with her estranged sister in San Francisco. Brilliantly paced and structured, this updated Streetcar Named Desire is more serious than your typical Woody Allen movie, but is nonetheless a great film. My main problem is mostly some inconsistencies in the quality of the dialogue, acting, and editing. Aside from these moments, the writing is great, and fantastic performances from this star cast allow for amazing characters to be created. 8/10. 7. Fruitvale Station: The debut feature film of director Ryan Coogler, this movie tells the true story of Oscar Grant III. Brilliantly portrayed by Michael B. Jordan (Chronicle), Grant is a man shot by police in a subway station on New Years Eve in 2008. The film is more about the journey rather than the destination, as Grant’s death is revealed in one of the opening
shots. Spectacular performances all across the board create real, believable characters that keep you thoroughly engaged. The fact that Grant was resolved to improve his life (as it’s New Years Eve) makes his death all the more heartbreaking. 9/10. 9. The Spectacular Now: In this coming-of-age story, based on the novel by Tim Tharpe, Miles Teller stars as a aimless high school senior who parties and drinks too much. Dealing with heartbreak, he forms a relationship with a ‘Nice Girl’ (Shailene Woodley). What makes this film work, is that it doesn’t at all feel forced. The performances are stunning and the writing feels like actual dialogue. It feels incredibly ‘real’. My only complaint is that I felt like it could have been padded with an extra fifteen to twenty minutes throughout to further explore the characters and their motivations, but other than that, this is a truly beautiful film. It’s probably the best one that I’ve seen this summer. 9/10.
9. This is the End: Written and Directed by Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen, this apocalyptic horror-comedy stars a multitude of celebrities playing fictionalized versions of themselves as they are left behind
on judgment day. The level of raunch in this film is unheard of, yet a surprising amount of the jokes work. This horror homage is paced wonderfully, and is a heck of a lot of fun to watch, as I’m sure it was to make. 9/10.
Not in Theatres 10. Clear History: This Larry David HBO movie, directed by Greg Mottola (Superbad) follows a marketing executive who lost near to a billion dollars after quitting his job prior to the release of a successful electric car, ‘The Howard.’ At this point, for David, this is nothing new. He plays his same Curb Your Enthusiam character that gets in the same awkward situations. However, with a fantastic star-studded cast, this TV movie still manages to entertain. 7/10. 11. Sharknado: While many Asylum films have entertaining titles and premises (Think Mega Shark vs. Giant Octopus), they tend to lack a lot of the heart necessary to make them fun to watch. Worse still, many tend to be boring and poorly
paced. With SyFy’s Sharknado, the filmmakers obviously took it seriously, which made it work. While there are numerous technical flaws, this film still makes for an entertaining enough B-movie. 6/10. 12. Wet and Reckless: 2011’s The FP is one of my favorite movies of all time. From the star, co-writer, and co-director comes Wet and Reckless, a story about typical reality star douchebags who are forced to hunt for buried treasure. Shot for only ten thousand dollars and only available on Vimeo On Demand, this is the most original, most humorous, and most enjoyable film I’ve seen in a long time. Despite some of its technical flaws, I can’t recommend this movie enough. 9/10.
Other Notables 13. The Conjuring: Directed by James Wan (Saw), this horror film is about two paranormal investigators who work to help a family in a haunted farmhouse. The biggest problem with this film is the pacing. There are some cool shots and intense scares, but they are few and far between. Much of the movie is spent setting up cheap scares or creating confused exposition. The Conjuring is better than a lot of other paranormal horror films, but I still can’t find it in myself to recommend it. 5/10. 14. Elysium: Written and directed by Neill Blomkamp (District 9), this Sci-Fi action film is about a man-made space station where all of the wealthy live, and the journey of one man (Matt Damon) to get there. Visually, this movie is absolutely amazing. The cast gives fantastic perfor-
mances, even though most of the characters are incredibly underdeveloped. The script is ridden with plot-holes and the structure is incredibly formulaic, with the final act especially disappointing. Ultimately, it ends up being a fun, above-average, albeit flawed summer blockbuster. 7/10. 15. We’re the Millers: This Jason Sudeikis comedy about a pot dealer who creates a fake family to sneak across the border is relatively strong for its first act. However, after that point, it overstays its welcome. The characters often lack motivation, the plot aimlessly wanders around, and the film tries to be too sentimental. While it’s not terrible, the script lacks the certain charm required to make this movie worthwhile. 4/10.
M OV I E S , B O O K S , M U S I C , A N D M O R E . . .
WRITE US A REVIEW! trojanopinion@gmail. com
By MEREDITH JOHNSON F E AT U R E E D I T O R
@mere_johnson19 As many WHS students took time from their summer to travel on one of the many exciting school trips, the Marine Bio students headed south to the Cayman Islands for a week of scuba diving and sun. The Cayman Islands are almost completely surrounded by living coral reefs, which allows for some of the greatest scuba diving spots in the world, according to Cayman Islands iPortals Group, which runs websites for the Cayman Islands business community. Before the students were able to check out these spots, they had to learn scuba safety. “We had two pool sessions to learn the basic safety rules before we were
able to actually get out there,” said Marymichael Berg (12). With the rules covered, the diving began. According to Michele Hiserodt (12), they attempted to dive three times a day; even though diving is very exhausting, this is how they spent the majority of their days. “We started out at a dive site called Don Foster›s, which is a dive shop. We did a variety of shore and boat dives later in the trip,” said Ellie Carter (12). According to Carter, some of the places visited were Rosebud, Mermaid, Sundivers, Devil’s Grotto, Babylon, Smith’s Cove, and Barefoot Beach. According to Connor Imholte (12), diving in the ocean for the first time is what he came to do. As the s t u d e n t s reached depths up to 85 feet deep, they were able to see animals they had once learned about in class and others they hadn’t.
“The students got to see many of the animals we talk about in the class. They also had the chance to interact with the coral reef community while diving,” said Marine Bio teacher Erik Christenson. The animals seen on the trip included sea turtles, sting rays, a shark, lots of moray eels, French angel fish, squirrel fish, urchins, giant sea anemones, blue tang, and lastly: fire coral. “You have to watch out for fire coral because it will sting you, and it burns,” said Carter. With the time not spent diving, they found other activities to do. “At night, we would all hang out in the condo, play mafia and look at pictures from the day. We also got to go explore the town by ourselves one afternoon and that was super fun,” said Hiserodt. According to Hiserodt, the trip was a great experience, one worth experiencing. “I looked forward to diving every day, and it was such an incredible experience to see the coral and all the animals. I had so much fun with the other kids that came on the trip, too, and I’m glad I got to know them all better. I would for sure recommend this trip,” said Hiserodt. Cayman Islands photo submitted by Michele Hiserodt
home, and learned how to make traditional Costa Rican food. “The locals don’t speak English, so going to the town store was quite an experience for me since I don’t speak Spanish,” said Bebchuk (11). “Milking a cow, using an awesome machete, and speaking to the locals were some important experiences,” said Musliner, (11). “I would very strongly recommend future sophomores to take this biology trip, it was super fun.”
e Biology Blog
itted by Marin
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The sophoJ U N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R more biol@HanaKassem ogy research trip this July brought together fun and education to a whole new climate. Students of any age who have completed a required sophomore biology class are presented with an opportunity to travel to Costa Rica with fellow classmates and experience the biodiversity the country has to offer. “John, the founder of Seeds of Change, started the program to get high schoolers interested in science and to promote innovation and research in youth. He says that bioinformatics and gene sequencing will be the next big field to drive the economy,” said Kevin Musliner (11). The biology students involved in the school trip studied leaf-cutter ants and whether or not the phero-mones these ants release affect other ant colonies and their By HANA KASSEM
movements. Meghan Jette (11) said, “Working with the professional scientists who could help us with our experiments was definitely a highlight of the trip, along with experiencing all the fun things Costa Rica has to offer. This trip also taught us what science is about in real world conditions without the prompt of a teacher and how hard it is to formulate your own experiments out on the field.” The ten day trip consisted of research for half the day and activities to experience Costa Rica the other half. “Horseback riding, hot springs, zip lining, spending a day at the beach, playing soccer with (and losing to) the locals, were all important experiences we had on the trip,” said Melissa Bebchuk (11). The biology students did a volunteer service project working in the town garden. They also spent some time with the locals, cooked dinner in a local’s
By POSIE BUFFINGTON S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R
@posie3210 This past summer, six WHS students were given the opportunity to travel across France on one of the many school trips. The students got a taste of not only delicious authentic French cuisine, but also the history, art, language and more. “Each trip is unique,” said French teacher Madame Magallanes. “We ask the students what they want to do and tailor the trip to that.” The first stop was Paris, where the atmosphere is like nowhere else. “We came running off the plane and started touring right away,” said Magallanes. Magallanes said that in one day, students took a plane to Paris, a coach bus to their hotel, travelled around Paris by Metro, and took a boat tour down The Seine. “The students requested to go to to the Shakespeare bookstore across from Notre Dame,” said Magallanes. “The students also enjoyed the French Nightlife,” Magallanes said. “Seeing Paris lit up and the young adults lining the river on either side was incredible,” said Patrick Malin (12). “Though Parisians are stereotyped as rude,” student Amy
By ANNA RODRIGUEZ J U N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R
@MsAnnaLuisa
This past June, an adventurous group of Wayzata High School students and staff members went on a trip of a lifetime to China. Isabel Milano (11) said, “The trip took place from June 10-20, about three days after school ended. It was ten days long. We traveled to Shanghai, Beijing, Guilin, and Xi’an.” “14 people went on the trip, including adults. There were nine students out of our group,” said Milano. Chinese teacher Sheen Heng Zhang has several notable memories
Rush (12) said, “I found most of them to be generally kind. However, they tended to stay out of the way of annoying tourists and kept to those used to the hustle and bustle of the city.” According to Malin, he found the people of Paris to always be in a hurry whether it came to avoiding the traffic on their motorcycles, fighting crowds to get to their trains, or refusing to give change for large bills. Six days later, the students checked out of Paris to explore a little further down south where they stayed for 3 more nights--one in Nîmes and the other two in Nice. One WHS student who attended the trip, Priya Tuttle (12) said, “I liked the south of France more because the atmosphere was more laid back and the people were more friendly.” Tuttle added, “The architecture was more artistic and I liked
from the trip. “My favorite memories are The Great Wall of China, The City Wall in Xi’an, the authentic food, and the interaction with local people. Everything was vivid and was so different from what you just hear or read about them,” said Zhang. Milano said Photo by
the cobble stoned streets.” The tour added a cooking lesson in southern France, where students were given directions in France and got to cook authentic cuisine, said Magallanes. “My favorite place had to be Avignon.” Rush added, “It was cool seeing all of the theater festivities going on. The best part was the plethora of signs hung everywhere in the village.” Students were given an opportunity to play pétanque, a French game similar to bocce ball. “It was a great way for everyone to be together,” said Magallanes. While Paris has so much to see such as the iconic Eiffel tower, Louvre, Champs D’Elysee, the south of France was a nice getaway from the hustle and bustle in Paris.
she loved biking along the city walls in Xi’an. “That was, by far, my favorite moment of the trip, as I was able to be with my new friends and experience the beauty of China,” said Milano. Students also encountered many surprises along the way. “The technology is very up-to-date, popular American shops are all over; even the fashion and general demeanor of Chinese citizens is very similar to ours. This certainly isn›t a bad thing, I was just surprised to see that a country so far away from home could feel so familiar,” said Milano. According to Zhang, there is rapid growth in China, yet it still keeps the traditions. “I would love the opportunity to go again,” said Hailey Pysick Milano. “This was my first experience out of the country, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.” Milano said if she were to go again she might do a few things differently the next time around. “I’d love to go maybe five or ten years from now, once I’m an adult and have improved my Chinese skills, and maybe take one of my closer friends with me,” said Milano. Zhang said that there will be more opportunities for Wayzata students to go to China in the future. “As long as we have students who want to go, we will keep going,” said Zhang. It’s an experience that is really like no other, and I hope to return sometime in the future,” said Milano.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
THE TROJAN TRIBUNE
OPINION 6
Opinion Exchange TROJAN TRIBUNE EDITORIAL STAFF Editor in Chief Katie Talerico News Editor Davante Washington Feature Editor Meredith Johnson Sports Editor Emily Berg Opinion Editor Kate Carroll Advertising Manager Taylor Cranfield Advisor David Motes
Dress codes shame girls’ bodies The students of FAIR School (located in Crystal, Minnesota) staged a walk-out this past school year to protest what they perceived to be an unfair dress code By CAMILLE SMITH policy at their GUEST WRITER school, and I, frankly, could not feel more supportive. The fact is, dress code controversy is about so much more than the right to wear shorts and spaghetti straps on a hot day. It’s about the idea that girls’ bodies are a commodity that deserve to be covered, and that it is somehow their fault when they are objectified and disrespected. The Wayzata High School dress code policy is outlined in Regulation 506-R, available on the Wayzata Public Schools website. Now, this policy specifically outlines the overwhelming female-specific garments that are banned, such as short skirts and tank tops, but offers no reasoning to why other than to “encourage students to be dressed appropriately for school activities.” This is where we encounter the problem. It’s obvious that these types of clothing
are banned because, as we have heard so often from teachers and administrators, they are harmful to learning and thus don’t belong in a school environment. But, as we’ve seen time and time again in practice, it’s girls who are being affected. And why? Because their choice of dress is a “distraction.” My question is, at what point do short skirts become a distraction? When a girl is disrespected or ogled as a result of what she c hooses to wear, it Graphic by Maggie Scanlon
is not her fault. It’s because the person doing the disrespecting isn’t being held accountable
for their actions. So begins the vicious cycle we see magnified a thousand times in our daily lives. Girls are shamed for completely normal body parts that have been objectified by those around them, and as a result are told to hide them, for fear of shaming or disrespect. It’s sickening, as well as dangerous. We’re not only telling girls that their bodies aren’t “appropriate” for school, but we’re giving the true victimizers a free pass. If they don’t learn now that their behavior is intolerable, that girls should be respected and treated with dignity no matter how they choose to dress, when will they? Certain things and behaviors have no place at Wayzata High School. Among them, is an overwhelmingly flawed policy of dress that is as arbitrary as it is insulting. A policy that teaches girls that their bodies aren’t meant to be embraced, but are objects, and if they do not cover those objects in accordance to the rules set by others they deserve whatever disrespect and shaming they get. A policy that doesn’t hold accountable those who actually deserve to be punished.
A semester abroad: a cultural experience In the spring, I was an American, living in Israel and out of the culture I experience every day. For the last two months of my junior year, I studied By JARED KAUFMAN GUEST WRITER abroad as a student of the Alexander Muss High School in Israel. I took classes I would have had at WHS, and I also had a core history course that brought us through all 4000 years of Jewish and Israeli history, both in the classroom and via trips to see first-hand what we were learning. One day, we hiked down a mountain that was the site of a biblical battle 3300 years ago. Another morning, at 3:00 am, we climbed the 948 steps to the top of Masada, a 2000 year-old fortress. We went spelunking, slept in a Bedouin tent, and had dinner and a dance party in a Druze village. Fast-forward to three days after I returned home in June. My sister worked at a Jewish day camp, and on staff were two Israelis, named Sapir and Michal, on a summer exchange program. Our family hosted them at
our home. The tables were turned – I was an American, living in my own country. Sapir and Michal were Israelis, living in America and far from the culture they grew up in. It has been very interesting to see both America and Israel through my own eyes, and also through impressions of others. I can relate to their culture using my own experience, and I can view America through the eyes of someone who is still learning our culture and our way of life. Israel has a national policy of conscription into the military for all men and women at age 18. Due to security concerns, there is a huge military presence within Israel. It is a not an uncommon sight to see groups of men and women in full military uniform walking the streets, carrying an M16, and Israelis are very appreciative, supportive, and feel national pride toward soldiers. American soldiers are rarely seen in public because they are often deployed internationally. On the 4th of July, Sapir asked why she didn’t see people displaying American flags on American Independence Day. I remembered that on Israeli Independence Day, Israeli flags are strung both inside and on the outside of buildings, and they fly from posts attached to car windows. I observed a different sense of patriotism and national pride in Israel than I see in America, because in Israel
Newly acquired World Language teacher Alyssa From page 2 Warne will be teaching Spanish 1 and 2 this school year in order to compensate for the increased interest in spanish courses. Warne previously taught at Blaine High School, but said she was drawn to, “An amazingly talented and progressive World Languages Department.” Warne said, “I constantly try to push myself out of my comfort zone when teaching. It helps me keep in touch with how students feel when learning a new skill and having to practice it in front of others,” “I would love to get involved to get to know more students outside of the classroom. I think it’s really impor-
tant to have that connection,” said Warne. Warne said she is also a sous chef at a cooking school in the Midtown Global Market. New Math teacher Karla Taylor said, “I will be teaching Math 2 and Math 3X.” Taylor said she previously taught at a High School on the Southside of Chicago, but she came back to Wayzata, “because I was a Wayzata graduate and wanted to teach great students with some of my favorite teachers.” “I will also be coaching the B squad dance team this winter,” said Taylor. Trewick said other new staff members include Jessica Chase (Math), Wayne Hamilton (ETD), Adam Hegg (Communications/Theatre), Bonnie Hsuan Huang (World Language), Lauren Pettersen (Art), and Keith Spurgeon (Social Studies).
TEACHERS
just about ever ybody has fought to defend not just the country, but the nation of people. A few weeks ago, Sapir went with my mom to go do some returns at the Photo by Jared Kaufman store. We know that returning unused or defective items is a normal occurrence. Our guest was baffled as to why we bring things back to the store. In Israel, stores do not accept returns except under certain stringent conditions; it’s not a part of Israelis’ consumer shopping norms. People buy only what they need, and not much extra. Most drivers in the US pulll over when they see flashing lights, but in Israel, police cars always drive around with their lights flashing. Why? –so their presence is made obvious. Israeli officers will signal for drivers to pull over by motioning or pointing to the side of the road. American drivers also rec-
ognize the siren as a sign of an emergency vehicle. In Israel, however, sirens are reserved only for national moments of silence or mourning, or to warn of imminent danger during war. Israelis are very attentive to the siren, and have to adjust to the freer use of sirens in American culture. Things we consider “everyday” or “normal” in America seem completely out of place when transplanted into the context of Israeli culture, and vice versa. I am glad I had the opportunity to have the “exchange” experience both ways - both learning a new culture and seeing my own culture from a new perspective.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 2013
THE TROJAN TRIBUNE
SPORTS 7
Strong start for Girls soccer on the road to state again By EMILY BERG
T h e SPORTS EDITOR g i r l ’s @EmilyBerg26 soccer team has begun their season 5-1. Coming into the season, the girls are the current back-to-back state champions. “There are only 5 returning players this season compared to last year when almost our entire team was returning players,” said senior captain Katie Yeager. “Since we lost more (players) than any other team in the state it will be much tougher for us this season,” said head coach Tony Peszneker. “We are a lot younger with not as much varsity experience this year. Although talented, most are unproven at the varsity level and will have to show what they can do,” says Peszneker. “I am excited to play with new people this year and to get to know them and see what they can do,” Yeager said. “I think the younger players are eager to get on the field and they want to prove that they can get the job done,” senior captain Sophie Leininger said. “The new girls are very athletic and have a lot of experience under their belts and that will serve the team well,” Leininger said. “As a team, I think we pass really well,” Yeager
said. “Coach Peszneker emphasizes how important passing is. Wayzata is known for how well we pass the ball,” senior captain Hannah Sturtz said. “Everyone in the Lake Conference will be a challenge this season. Those schools are out to beat us because they know that we graduated 14 seniors last year,” Yeager said. “Everyone is tough and anyone could win the conference. Since we lost more than any team in the state it will be much tougher for us this season,” said Peszneker. “Outside of our conference I think some of our toughest games will be against Eastview and Lakeville North,” Leininger said. “I think what sets us apart is that we are younger. This year we also have a freshman and that is unheard of at a school like Wayzata,” Yeager said. “Though our team is young, we still have a lot of talent,” Leininger said. “Our coaches have a ton of experience and they share their knowledge,” Leininger said. “We are a pretty small team physically this year, so we need to be aggressive when playing to put up a fight,” Sturtz said. “I am looking forward to trying to get to state as a new team. I think that people do not expect us to go far this season because we only have 5 returning players,” Sturtz said.
Boys soccer off to hot start By MATT JOHNSON S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R
Boys soccer is well underway and the team has gotten off to a dominant start. The team is undefeated to start the season and they were recently crowned champions in a Stillwater tournament. That win is really momentous as they hadn’t won that particular tournament in six years. The team is 3-2 so far this season. With impressive victories over Spring Lake Park and Stillwater, the boys look to carry the momentum going forward. Senior captains Nick Riley, Sam Koep, James Smith, and Scott Eyer are determined to take Trojan soccer to new heights, and have every intention of bringing home a state title. “This is probably one of the best teams we’ve had in awhile,” said senior forward Billy Yancey. “We are very connected, we are all friends, and we all have the same goal, to win the state championship,” Yancey said. Every player on the team is optimistic and confident given the hot start. The team has high expectations for themselves and has every intention to go far. “As a team we came up with lots
of expectations of ourselves. Some of those expectations were to work hard in practice, not being late, have the right equipment, and to eat healthy. It’s expected that we all follow these rules,” Yancey said. Head coach Dominic Duenas puts a lot of emphasis on hard work, however he also believes that communication and chemistry are important for the boys to have success. “I feel very confident about our goals this year,” said Senior Captain Scott Eyer. “We have an experienced team and with hard work I think we can accomplish a lot together.” The team has made it a clear goal to perform to the best of their abilities, but also to use this experience to better themselves as individuals. It is important to the team to improve as players but strengthening relationships, especially with one another, has been named a priority. “We aren’t ranked as high as some of the other teams around the state, but that doesn’t matter because we’ve shown that we can compete with anyone,” said Eyer. The boys play next tomorrow, September 7th at Edina.
Soccer action under the Jumbotron. Aly Tisthammer (12) wins the ball (above.) Ruby Stauber (10) works up the pitch (below) during the Trojans’ 6-0 rout of St. Paul Academy and Summit School. At left, all eyes up on a goal kick against Duluth East, another WHS win. The girls are are 5-1 and visit Edina tomorrow. All photos by Jill Yeager.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 2013
THE TROJAN TRIBUNE
SPORTS 8
The Boys Are Back By DAVANTE WASHINGTON NEWS EDITOR
Another Wayzata Trojan football season has begun. Wayzata’s close season opener last Thursday, August 29th against Rosemount, resulted in a 24 to 21 victory. A new batch of seasoned seniors will take the reigns and lead the team through another year. “Since last year, all that has changed is the players. “We obviously don’t have the Division 1 athletes we did in Chris Wipson and Jeff Borchardt, or any of those other guys who graduated. We have another class that is ready to play. Besides that, nothing has changed. We have the same goals, the same coaches, and the same desire to win,” said captain Logan Larson. The Trojans are not yet where they would like to be as a team yet
and are still working to get better. Captain Brandon Lingen said, “Every team has things to work on right now and we are no exception, but that is to be expected. The nice thing is though, it is early in the season and we have time to work on those things. To improve, we, as a team, have to practice hard and listen to our coaches each and every day.” Wayzata will have another tough season in the Lake Conference. With strong teams like Eden Prairie and Minnetonka, the Trojans will have another difficult path to the state tournament. “We still have a lot we need to work on. We wouldn’t be going to practice everyday if that wasn’t the case, especially since we have to close out the season against Eden Prairie and Minnetonka,” said Larson. The boys play next on Friday at Lakeville South at 7pm.
Photo by Grant Hill
Success in sight for girls cross country By KATE CARROLL OPINION EDITOR
@katecarroll4
The Girls Cross Country team is coming back after a fantastic 20122013 season. The returning state and
Nike Heartland Regional champions have a challenging season ahead of them. The team has all 7 members from the last year and is favored to win state and succeed at the regional and national level. The team placed first at the
Marshfield Invite on Saturday, August 31. Senior captain Mary Franke said, “Our team goal is for us to win state, and be top three in the nation at Nike Nationals.” “I want the girls to work as hard as
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY STANDOUTS: (from left to right) Annkia Halverson (12), Kristine Keller-Miller (10), Anna French (11), Mckenna Evans (12), Mary Franke (12), and Mackenzie Keller-Miller (12).
students to opt out of Mo Pro, Schmit said. From page 1 In May 2012, Schmit said he was told by administrators that he’d been “pushing the envelope for a long time,” and was reassigned to teaching World History. “I asked the superintendent to intervene because I thought it was a misuse of reassignment,” said Schmit. The superintendent declined. “It’s pretty clear to me that the reassignment was punitive,” Schmit said. Director of Communications Amy Parnell says that reassignments like Schmit’s are “not uncommon.” “The District has a policy on professional staff assignments and transfers that governs all teacher transfers,” Parnell said. “Transfers occur for a variety of reasons, to best serve the needs of students.” Parnell said that Schmit is a licensed SCHMIT
social studies teacher and is qualified to teach both subjects. “A teacher should be teaching in a class where their strength lies,” said Schmit. Schmit says that the district has “made some accommodations, but the things they’ve offered me are things I can’t do.” “I love the Wayzata schools, but at every juncture they haven’t been willing to acknowledge the mistakes they’ve made,” said Schmit. “I had to go public.” Parnell said board members had received “sixteen letters [as of August 21] written on Mr. Schmit’s behalf… All describe the influence Mr. Schmit’s teaching has had on students’ lives in extremely positive terms.” “I am truly thankful for Peter Schmit and the lasting impact he has had on my children, both personally and academically,” said parent Joanne Zeidler. “He was there for his students and his door was
always open for kids to come in and get help.” “He taught students skills that are crucial for success in college, work, and life as a whole,” said Zeidler’s daughter, Robyn. No matter what former students or parents said, they all agreed on one thing: Schmit’s class was tough. “His class was certainly the most challenging class I took at Wayzata,” said Robyn. “He, more than any teacher I had, set high standards for his students and helped them succeed at reaching them.” “The whole conflict with me and the district boils down to rigor,” said Schmit. “The Mo Pro team has high standards. We identify problems and fix them. There’s been pressure from the district to lower the bar. Students hit Mo Pro and are shocked,” Schmit said. “The rigor in Mo Pro hasn’t changed, nor is it going to,” said Trewick.
they can and results will follow,” Coach Tyler Peterson said Girls Cross Country accepts everyone who will come and practice, focusing more on self-improvement and goals. “Cross country is a great opportunity for freshmen like me to find a community in a school over 3,000,” said Brittany Torguson (9). Cross country lets students be self-disciplined and learn to love the sport of running. “A lot of our workouts are selfchosen and the coaches give us freedom as to how far and long we run at practice. Everybody’s running career is different from the others, and we all have challenges and problems to overcome that prevent us from running our best at races,” said Monika Weimer (12). “Being a part of cross country is so rewarding. It’s more than just winning races and seeing your times improve. The girls and I, we’re family. I have the pleasure of running with some absolutely amazing girls and creating memories with them that I’ll never forget,” said Annika Halverson (12). The team’s first meet was Friday, August 30th at Rosemont High School. Girls Cross Country has an exciting and accomplished season ahead of them.
“This is a challenging building academically,” said Trewick. “We’re making sure everyone is challenged. We want to have rigor in classes so that students are ready for college.” Schmit hopes that by encouraging students and parents to reach out, the district will continue the dialogue between himself and the school district, which he says is currently stalled. “At the beginning of the school year, there was no resolution. The administration hired a substitute, which for the sake of the students seems reasonable,” Schmit said. Russell Petterson will be replacing Schmit for the time being, teaching his sections of World History as he did last year, said Trewick. According to Schmit, the administration suggested he extend his medical leave in order to “continue the conversation.”