Horse - Issue Five

The Sculpting Her Future pg. 6 Chris Bartlo: Virtually Unstoppable pg. 17

Silence of The Hands pg. 22

The Enjoyment of Employment pg. 9

A Grand Pianist Stretching Students Senseless pg. 15

pg. 20

Summer Job Quiz! pg. 12

Court Jesters pg. 2

Wilson’s New Upgrade pg. 25 1

May

HORSE-O-SCOPE

Written by Tana Kelley

Aries (21 March-19 April)

Libra (23 Sept-22 Oct)

Taurus (20 April-20 May)

Scorpio (23 Oct-22 Nov)

Aries: Family and emotional issues will dominate over finance and career. Don’t you worry, don’t you worry child, because if you fix the emotional side, your career options will be better than ever.

Taurus: Your charm and attractive powers are on point this month, young ram. You need to decide if you want to use it or let it stand there unused.

Libra: You are a very helpful person; however, you need to look at your own needs this month. Your emotions have been acting up and maybe it’s because you have been helping everyone else with their emotional problems instead of your own.

Either way, wear your emotions on your sleeve and confront your problems.

Scorpio: The mixture of work and health is really disruptive to you this month. Remember to not work yourself too hard or you might lash out and sting some innocent bystander.

Gemini (21 May-21 June)

Sagittarius (23 Nov- 20 Dec)

Gemini: You are in high demand, socially. You need to organize your life so that you can balance friends, school, and extracurricular activities.

Sagittarius: There will be a lot of excitement for you in May, but don’t get too overwhelmed and forget to handle your responsibilities such as doing your homework or taking a shower.

Cancer (22 June-23 July)

Cancer: You will experience drama the first week of May, but it will disperse if you just hang on and keep your emotions in check. The rest of the month will be a breeze when your newfound confidence helps you network and meet someone who will help you in life, whether it be emotionally or professionally.

Leo (24 July-23 Aug)

Leo: You have allowed your friends to step all over you. You need to assert yourself and regain that lion roar that you were born with.

Capricorn (22 Dec-20 Jan) Capricorn: Life has been bland for you this month and you may be feeling like you’re in a rut. Perhaps it’s time to change your life for the better. Start by changing the small things. Begin a new endeavor or leave a bad habit behind.

Aquarius (21 Jan-19 Feb) Aquarius: You have many goals and objectives, but this month the only way to achieve them is to be flexible and compromise with others. Swim with the waves. Go with the flow.

Virgo (24 Aug- 22 Sept)

Pisces (20 Feb-20 March)

Virgo: Change isn’t your thing, I get it, but this month will bring forth lots of challenges on the work front. Embrace the change, young virgin.

Pisces: You need to decide what you want and go for it. Be persistent and aggressive while you swim up the stream of life. Only then will you get what you’re looking for.

CONTENTS COVER

Olivia Whittaker

HORSE-O-SCOPE Tana Kelley

02 COURT JESTERS Brooklynn Loiselle

06 SCULPTING HER FUTURE Erica Keaveney

09 THE ENJOYMENT OF EMPLOYMENT Adrianne Nix

12 SUMMER JOB QUIZ Brooklynn Loiselle

15 STRETCHING STUDENTS SENSELESS Kaya Noteboom

17 CHRIS BARTLO: VIRTUALLY UNSTOPPABLE Aidan Ormand

20 A GRAND PIANIST Ian Morgan

22 SILENCE OF THE HANDS Quinn Vlacich

25 WILSON’S NEWEST UPGRADE Jamie Valentine

Brooklynn Loiselle Editor in Chief Junior

Moni Kovacs Head of Design Senior

Kaya Noteboom Editor in Chief Sophomore

Tana Kelley Photo Editor Senior

Keith Higbee Staff Advisor

Brian Chatard Principal

According to Oregon law, student journalists are responsible for determining the content of this publication, except under limited circumstances. The subject matter, content and views of the news, features and opinion sections in this paper do not reflect the views of Portland Public Schools or Woodrow Wilson High School.

1

The Court Jesters

Walking into a typical, JV basketball game, one would

basketball. As the boys grew up and graduated from

see a small crowd of supportive parents and, with the

Jackson Middle School to Wilson, their circle continued to

exception of the occasional stray waiting for their parents

expand, fueled by their shared passion for sports and the

to pick them up, an empty student section. The only sounds

outdoors.

heard in this gym are the yells from the coaches, the

Surprisingly, they did not break apart into individual

communication on the court, and the rare clap from a

cliques as most high school relationships do. Instead, they

mom or a dad. Home court, an advantage so many brag

continue to thrive as one huge mass of friends. On

about, is practically nonexistent, except at Wilson.

As the referee’s whistle sounds the start of the game at

occasion, they will play videogames together, but they still prefer to spend time together outside or doing

5:45, the resounding chants of the student section echo

something involving sports, which ultimately led them to the

throughout the gym. A crowd of about thirty sophomore

JV basketball games.

boys takes up a substantial amount of the student section

“We went to the first few basketball games, because all

and brings the atmosphere, which so many basketball

of our friends are on JV basketball. On varsity, we don’t

games, including varsity, lack. The boys, wearing their

know any of the guys, and we were like, wouldn’t that be

designated spirit attire, are dedicated to the success of

hilarious if there was just this huge crowd for the JV games

the JV boy’s team and are willing to sacrifice their voices

and not for the varsity games?” sophomore Ike Jockers

for the upcoming week in order to sway the end result in

said.

Wilson’s favor. Encouraging their peers the entire game,

Most of the boys play sports themselves and know the

the boys attempt to influence the thirty-two minute game

benefits of having a large, loud students’ section cheering

on as many fronts as possible.

you on. Communicating through a group message on

The group began to form while the boys were in kindergarten at Stephenson Elementary School. They bonded over a love of sports, especially soccer and

2

TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

their phones, the JV boys’ student section began forming, growing, and gaining confidence.

“It felt a little weird, standing out like that as a big

group. We got more and more used to it and more and

party hats, bought at the Dollar Tree, and began to cheer

more comfortable, and we realized that it didn’t really

on the Wilson team.

matter what other people thought of us,” sophomore

During the game whenever an opposing Lincoln player was fouled on a shot, the boys would put up newspapers,

Jackson Curtin said.

The boys would all wear a similar outfit on game day

covering their faces as if they had lost interest. They would

in order to show a sense of spirit and to look unified as

also call out the number of opposing players and attempt

a section. The most well-known of these days was Flannel

to distract them in any way possible.

Friday’s. On special occasions, Jackson Curtin, who was

“When they were taking free throws, we got in

known for starting chants and being particularly vocal,

trouble for saying ‘miss it,’ so we always kept saying ‘make

chose to especially stand out by dressing up in

it,’” sophomore Hale McCullough said. “Or when they

outrageous attire.

took a free throw, our whole group would scatter across

“Wearing various

costumes was always fun, and that

made it pretty entertaining. I wore a gorilla suit and an all white morph suit, which is like a full body spandex suit,” Jackson Curtin said.

The boys do admit, however, the real fun was not the games themselves but being with their friends as a huge group.

“It wouldn’t be very much fun just watching the game.

the bleachers and just do anything to distract the other people.”

Acts such as these were intended to frustrate the op-

“It wouldn’t be very much fun just watching the game.

Together, we make the games more fun for us and hopefully, for the people playing.”

Wilson the advantage.

These acts, however, led to a bit of controversy during the away Lincoln game where the boys chanted ‘no monkey business.’

“They thought we said no monkey face. It was very

Together, we make the games more fun for us and

posing players and give

hopefully, for the people

playing,” Hale McCullough said.

Perhaps the boys were most spirited at the JV boys’

clear we said no monkey business,” Ike Jockers said.

Because the chant was mistaken as a racial slur, a few of the boys were called into Principal Chatard’s office the

game at Lincoln, which was the first game against the

following day, but after they explained the situation, they

longtime rival since the reunification of the PIL. It was also

were released without any punishment.

the only away game they travelled to this season.

“It was really fun, because none of us could drive yet, so we had to take the [team] bus together,” Ike Jockers said.

Upon arrival, the Lincoln Cardinals’ bleachers were

“Now, we are a lot more conscious to what other people think and how they feel about what we do,” Jackson Curtin said.

After this incident the boys decided to focus more on

practically empty, but the boys were ready for a fight, fully

being positive towards their team instead of saying

equipped with new chants and props.

negative or unintentionally derogatory comments to

“When they came to Lincoln, there was like thirty, ok

opposing players or referees. It was positivity such as this,

maybe twenty, kids at Lincoln, and they [the boys] were

which kept the JV players going during a triple overtime

bigger than Lincoln’s fan base,” sophomore player Chris

game against South Medford.

Butcher said.

As the game started, the boys all put on polka dotted

“They were cheering us on, and we went three overtimes. We lost the game, but we had a great time,”

3

“It didn’t show in our record, but in the games, you could just see that we played with a lot more energy.” freshman JV player Kenneth Young said. “It was very

thinking it’s time to swing up and go varsity. However, the

motivational for our team just having the friends come and

main focus is on their senior year.

support us. Even when we were down, they still cheered.”

One of the boys’ signature chants was to yell “Sir!” at the referee with their hands up in a field goal like position when a questionable call was made.

“If the ref ever made a bad call, we definitely made sure he knew it,” Hale McCullough said.

Although the boys brought endless energy to the games, the outcomes were not quite as one would hope.

“Every game I actually saw of JV basketball we lost, except one,” Ike Jockers said.

Players, though, are still confident having such a large crowd was a benefit to their team.

“We played much better,” Chris Butcher said. “It didn’t

“Senior year is the target year for us. We’re going to go for some big stuff like best students’ section in Oregon,” Jackson Curtin said.

Although the best students’ section is not an actual, obtainable award, the boys’ want to make Wilson High School known for their students’ section, and they want other teams to dread having to play against the Trojans.

The boys also want to start the Fan’s of Men’s Basketball club in order to share their passion for basketball with others. They hope the club will attract other students to become a part of the student section as well.

“We want as many people there as possible,” Ike Jockers said. “We want you there.”

show in our record, but in the games, you could just see that we played with a lot more energy. They were definitely a positive influence.”

Brooklynn Loiselle Junior

The boys in anticipation for next season are already starting to prepare. With some of the sophomore players moving up to varsity and some staying another year on JV, there was a difficult decision to be made in the offseason as to which team the boys will choose to cheer on. They’re

4

TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

Photos by Emily Crowley

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5

SCULPTING HER FUTURE 6

TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

The entrance to the ceramics classroom is narrow and

during her junior year. This was not without effort on her

often ajar, blasting an eclectic stream of music, anything

part. “I heard there was a ceramics class [at Wilson] and I

from the likes of Miley Cyrus to John Frusciante, into the

tried to get into it sophomore year, but I didn’t get in, [so]

adjacent hallway. Inside, students dressed in spattered

junior year I did,” she said.

aprons and old jeans stand in a jagged semi­circle

Acquaintances and friends all recognize this persistence

around the ceramics teacher Mr. Butterfield. There is a

as a dominant quality in Whittaker. Instead of partying or

muffled hush upon the room as they listen to him describe

going out to wreak havoc like a typical high schooler, she

how to craft a top.

prefers to stay at home and work on her pieces. If nothing

“You have to make sure it’s even on all sides, or else

else, this wholly proves her devotion to the arts.

it won’t spin.” His hands cradle a top in the shape of an

As with the aforementioned high school art classes,

acorn, and he displays how to push in all of the sides

Whittaker’s specific venture into the mediums of clay and

proportionally. A few students in the back whisper and

ceramics began to particularly hit its stride last year. Up

gossip to each other, giggling. Their clothing choices are

until then, she mostly dabbled in paints, pens, and colored

stylish and contrary to the work they are about to do.

pencils. Sonja Whittaker, Olivia’s mother, recalls memories

“Okay, I’m going to name off who is going to use the trays today, okay?” Mr. Butterfield pulls up a list on his laptop and gruffly rattles off the selected students. They obediently sit at their stations and begin the process of shaping the clay. Their hands and forearms are soon caked with the material, and the

of her daughter bringing home art projects from school that involved Play-Doh and cutting and pasting of papers.

“I was so excited because her two older brothers never

“She can make art out of anything.”

room begins to smell of hot mud. The beginning strains of Trey Songz start to fill the room.

Olivia Whittaker sits in the center of it all, appearing

wanted to participate in the art projects, and when they did it was only because their teachers made them,” she said. “I could tell she put

thought and effort into [them].”

Sonja Whittaker credits both of Olivia’s ceramics teachers--Ms. Pieren from her junior year and

wholly unperturbed. She remains focused on the up­-

Mr. Butterfield from her senior year--as major reasons for

and-­down motions of her hands as they shape the clay.

her daughter’s passion in the medium. Whittaker’s father

Underneath her apron she wears a snow-­white infinity

William, however, believes that her love for ceramics

scarf, a piece of apparel that would be hazardous for

had stemmed from within. “I think Liv is extra interested in

somebody less sure of the craft. As it is, Whittaker has little

ceramics because she loves shapes and vibrant colors...

to worry about in that department: she has solid proof of

seeing your work on paper is fun,” he said. “But making

her skill in the form of a “Silver Key” Scholastic award.

a tangible object you can actually use and admire was

From a young age, art has been a major interest for Olivia; she had participated in several different art

more to Olivia’s liking.”

Nevertheless, something they can both agree on is how

center classes in her spare time. Along with receiving ar-

grateful they are for Pieren and Butterfield’s constant en-

tistic materials for holidays and birthdays, her parents also

couragement and support throughout their daughter’s two-

signed her up for one or two art classes at Ainsworth, her

year high school career. Be that as it may, this reassurance

elementary school, which had an exceptional art program.

is not exclusive among her Wilson art teachers. Whittaker

However, her debut into high school art really only took off

has received the same support from friends and family,

7

and it has been steadily and fiercely positive. “That’s what

makes things so quickly and effortlessly, I just want to do

made me continue doing it­­--I was like, ‘Oh, people think

that,” she said.

I’m good at it,’” she said. From the very beginning her parents had encouraged her by taking her to art classes in Multnomah and complimenting her work. Additionally,

Butterfield has had that confidence in her from the beginning.

“She put more thought into her projects by staying after

a few of her family members have actually purchased her

class,” he said. “Her dedication to the quality in her work

art. Her peers have been a source of approval as well;

is really there, and [her pieces] are really well constructed and thought out.”

several of her friends have

As senior year draws to a

enjoyed her artwork to the point where they have

close, Whittaker’s plans for

requested that Whittaker

her near future are about to

create drawings or designs

become a reality. After tak-

for their own purposes.

ing graphic design classes for two years at PCC with a

“I asked her if she could do a tattoo design . . . just

main focus on typography,

because she’s an incred-

she intends on attending

ible artist,” senior Sahara

PSU to continue her art

Wright said. “She’s recently

education. Despite her love

been working on calligra-

for ceramics, she recently

phy, she’s just been writing

became interested in work-

out words and it’s beauti-

ing on logos after a friend in the field showed Whittaker her portfolio, and has decided

ful.”

Even with all of the requests and approval that Whittaker has received from family and friends, her largest ac-

to take her artistic interests in that direction.

Nonetheless, it doesn’t seem to matter what she decides

complishment to date has been winning a Scholastic Silver

to settle on in the future--her friends and family have confi-

Key. Whittaker’s award was earned at a local competition

dence that she will succeed in anything with flying colors.

that boasted nearly 4,000 contestants this year. Among

“She can make art out of anything,” senior Carly Campbell

the honorable mentions and ignored submissions, she

said. “Whenever she’s doing art, she’s really into it. I feel

managed to rise above and beyond.

like lots of people would love to see her work.”

Her winning piece was a ceramic teapot that weighed a feather­light three pounds, which she believes was the tipping point for the judges’ decision. This win has granted her the confidence to want to participate in more competitions in the future. “It was really cool to submit something

Erica Keaveney Senior

and receive feedback, so I’m definitely going to try to get into more little contests,” Whittaker said.

Despite her award, Whittaker remains humble. She knows she still has room to grow and looks to her teacher Mr. Butterfield for inspiration. “Seeing his stuff and how he

8

TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

Photos by Erica Keaveney

The Enjoyment Of Employment Sixteen. The magic number. This coming of age has a

valet, his responsibilities include supervising valet parking

lot of connotations associated with newfound opportuni-

lots, ensuring quick drop-off of cars, and guaranteeing

ties for independence. Sixteen year olds begin to explore

the safety of the cars while they’re in his care. Along with

college options. Career options. One can receive their

these vital accountabilities, Ramey is obligated to provide

driving license, or even a job. Teens scour the internet,

top-notch customer service, treat the clientele with respect,

and keep on eye out for store front windows that scream

and learn how to multitask. Since he works so many hours

HELP WANTED, NOW HIRING, TURN IN YOUR APPLI-

during the week, he has to figure ways to work in complet-

CATION TODAY! These go-getters sprinkle their resumes

ing his school tasks. “Sometimes I do [homework] on the

with volunteer efforts made in the past, skills attained, and

job. There’s a lot of downtime and I will do [it] when things

experience earned. In return for their efforts, these teenag-

aren’t so busy,” Ramey admitted. But, he says, having a job

ers obtain an entry level job that teaches them vital skills

and going to school is 100% worth the work.

needed for later in life, making working during high school an important step in preparing for the future.

Teens have a vast array of jobs available to them

According to the Child Trends Data Bank, 47 percent of youth ages 16-24 were employed in 2013. Those in high school, however, had a 17 percent employment rate, and

during their high school years. These jobs range from

those in college had a 45 percent employment rate. A

babysitters to grocery store employees, restaurant staff to

survey taken by Wilson students about working and going

lifeguards. Most of these positions aren’t relegated to the

to school showed that 87 percent of the studied teens do

weekend. Working students pick up shifts beginning right

indeed have jobs. The majority of these students have had

after the final bell rings to end the class day, and work

their jobs for more than six months. Some of the skills that

well after the sun has set.

these students have learned include timeliness, profession-

Some students, like senior Noah Ramey, work up to 2530 hours during a school week.

Ramey works at Premiere Valet in Beaverton. As a

alism, people skills (communication), and how to recover from mistakes. They say it isn’t easy to balance a job and school, but along with a social life, it can be near impos-

9

sible. “Anytime I’m not doing school, I’m working, and vice versa,” one anonymous students said. “And anytime I’m not

talk to strangers. Stuff like that,” she added, quickly.

Along with these skills, teens learn responsibility, money

doing those, I’m with my friends.” Making these tough deci-

management, and how to handle situations that need

sions is very mentally taxing, but can help one in the long

immediate attention, all of which prepare them to become

run with what they learn from the experience.

productive, working citizens. Not that those who don’t

No matter what title a teenager earns, it takes a great

have these skills can’t be successful, but people with these

deal of responsibility to maintain the level of respect need-

advantages are more ready to face the world today and

ed to complete their job in a mature fashion. As a sales

have a greater awareness of some of the responsibilities

associate at JC Penney in Washington Square Mall, senior

associated with adulthood.

Tana Kelley knows this first-hand. “During the holidays, I

Senior Sarah Buhl works in the restaurant scene. As

worked up to 36 hours a week, but now it’s between 14

an employee at The Original Pancake House, she has

and 18 hours,” Kelley said. She has worked at the de-

learned many imperative job skills she can implement

partment store for six months, but worked at Jimmy John’s

later in life, like people skills and communication. Buhl

making sandwiches during her junior year.

works 15-30 hours a week, and has been a hostess for

Completing homework after her shift is tough, since she usually doesn’t get off until 10:30 at night.

“We can’t close until the whole store is clean, which is late, especially on Saturdays,” Kelley said, exasperatedly. It ends up being

nine months. She also has lacrosse practice throughout the week. It can be hard on her social life, having to miss out

“I have a vision for how my life is going to be, and it definitely isn’t working at Wal-Mart.”

that she doesn’t begin her

on fun occasions, but she knows it is worth it in the long run. “[It is] always disappointing, but then I think about how much

homework until school starts the next morning.

But, Kelley believes it’s worth it. “Having a job gives you responsibilities that high school doesn’t give you,” she said.

“It prepares you better for college.”

Somehow, Kelley finds time to accomplish her AP Statistics homework in time for class each day, even if it means doing it the class period before.

“I have good grades, so it’s not like a huge deal,” she said, laughing. “Besides, working gets me money!”

Kelley is set to attend the University of Missouri this fall

money I have in the bank, and I don’t feel so bad,” Buhl said. “It will all go to paying for my college, so there’ll be less debt in the future.”

Buhl also knows Spanish, which is a very important skill in the up and coming job market.

According to the Korn/Ferry International Executive Recruiter Index, 88 percent of job recruiters believe that the ability to converse with others in more than one language is critical. 79 percent of North American recruiters believe that Spanish as an additional language is most in de-

in the hopes of becoming a journalist. With this prestigious

mand by potential employers. But sometimes, even these

job title comes many responsibilities. Without the proper

sought-out working skills aren’t enough, since teens aren’t

preparation, it would be hopeless trying to make it in the

perceived as fully functional.

competitive field. But, with her employment, Kelley has

When it comes to the workplace, Buhl believes that

learned the proper skills, and a few unconventional ones.

teens are perceived differently than their adult peers. “We

“I have learned patience, and a LOT about shoes. And

get treated with so little respect,” Buhl said. “Even though

how to make a sandwich. And I’ve learned speed, how to

we’re just doing our job, people don’t take us seriously.”

10 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

So will having a job make a teenager fiscally respon-

There are times when people don’t value her knowledge and authority in the restaurant. “Sometimes, I will say some-

sible? Able to handle money in a smart, forward-thinking

thing and people won’t listen, but then an adult co-worker

way? In an ideal world, the answer would always be

says the exact same thing, and suddenly they follow the

yes, but that’s not the case. Junior Jaycie Kimball, an

rules.” Many teens face this frustrating feat during their time

employee at Panera Bread, doesn’t feel having a job has

working, but that doesn’t mean having a job isn’t worth it.

made her more aware of money. “I have the tendency to

While having a job senior year is very beneficial to re-

spend all my money as soon as I get it,” Kimball said. “It’s

duce the financial burden of college, it comes at a certain

a problem.”

Having a job as a teenager prepares and teaches

non-monetary cost. Senior Josie Parks, a sales associate at Wal-Mart, has had hands-on experience with the time-

people many important life skills that they can utilize in the

crunch of not being able to finish her homework on time.

future. Time management. Monetary accountability. Com-

“Usually if I have something due on a Thursday or Fri-

munication abilities. All of these are applicable to any job

day, I do it on the bus or in the car on the way to school,”

obtained in adulthood. But the attainment of all of these

Parks said. “I get off [work] at ten. I’m too tired to do it after

skills is dependent on the teenager. Without the proper

work.”

maturity, having a job during high school could be a living

Parks’ work schedule has her on the sales floor from

hell, the weight of responsibility too heavy. But, with this

15-20 hours a week. In the past, she has worked at Mar-

knowledge, teens can begin to transition to adulthood

shalls and Camp Yakety Yak, a summer camp for children

with vital experience in hand.

with disabilities. Though her job gets tough, she feels like working during the school year is worth the cost. “I’m able

to provide for myself, and often times for my family as well,” Parks said. “I have made some amazing friends that I know I’ll have forever.”

Adrianne Nix Senior

She also feels her job has motivated her to succeed in school. “Honestly, it’s not something I want to be doing for

Photos by Adrianne Nix

the rest of my life,” she added. “I have a vision for how my life is going to be, and it definitely isn’t working at WalMart.”

Parks plans to attend Portland Community College in the fall in order to begin the process of obtaining a degree in psychology to focus on either occupational therapy or childhood development. “I’m going to work through school, then say goodbye to Wal-Mart forever,” she said According to Middle Earth, a non-profit agency that provides services to adolescents, more than half of teens are motivated to work in order to be able to buy things.

Other reasons include car expenses (e.g., gasoline, maintenance), educational expenses (e.g., saving for college, textbooks), and helping their families with living expenses.

11

What Work’s For You This Summer Choose the answers that best apply to you.

Describe yourself. a.loving b. energetic c. patient d.protective e.social f.mature

What is your favorite snack? a.PB and Jelly b.Granola Bar c.french fries d.Gatorade e.banana or an apple f.hummus and carrots

What is your favorite past time? a.watching tv b.DIY crafts or board games c.people watching d.athletics e.listening to music f.going to Dutch

What is your favorite class in school? a.Health b.Science c.Foreign Language d.PE e.Marketing f.Math

Describe your summer style. a.pajamas all day b.nike shorts and a tie dye top c. my average school outfit d.my bathing suit e. black f. I put more effort into my summer style.

What type of car do you drive? a.van b.pickup c.my mom’s old car d.I don’t drive e.average sedan f.the one I bought after saving my money for years.

What is your favorite type of music? a. Radio Disney b. EDM c. All the classics d. Katy Perry e. Instrumentals f. Rolling Stones

12 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

Where is your ideal vacation? a.Disneyland b.Grand Canyon c.Somewhere in Europe d.Miami Beach e.New York City f.Chicago

Who is your role model? a.my parents b.a teacher c.a friend or older sibling d.Marcus Mariota e.CoCo Chanel f.Beyonce and Jay-Z

What is your favorite color? a.Something pastel b.green c.yellow d.red e.black f.grey

Where do you see yourself in 6 years? a.getting married/ starting a family b.traveling the world c.still in school d.beginning stages of a solid career e.Living at home, trying to figure out what I should do with my life f.starting my own business

What toppings do you put on your frozen yogurt? a.Oreos b.strawberries c.all of the sauces (whipped cream, caramel, etc.) d.gummies e.candy f.I like my yogurt plain

What is your favorite animal? a.hamster b.squirrel c.chicken d.dolphin e.shark

Find the letter that you chose the most often and flip to the next page to see what job you should pursue this summer.

13

What Work’s For You: Answers If you chose mostly A’s:

You should spend your summer babysitting. Bring out your inner kid and enjoy a summer with some of your younger neighbors. Take them down memory lane and show them all of the things that you liked to do when you were little. Being a babysitter is a great job, because you can continue the career into the school year, choose your hours, and make serious bank.

If you chose mostly B’s:

You should be a camp counselor. You’re creative, outgoing, lighthearted, and have an appreciation for the natural beauties of the world around you. Use your great characteristics to help out children this summer.

Whether it be at an overnight camp for a week or a daytime activity, you will be one of the kid’s highlights of the summer.

If you chose mostly C’s:

Work in the foodservice industry. Be a waitress or even a cook at your favorite restaurant. Spend your summer learning the secrets to all of your favorite dishes. Being able to make food will ALWAYS benefit you in life. Plus, you might be able to sneak home any leftovers, which would make your family and your tummy oh so happy.

If you chose mostly D’s:

You’re caring and protective- the perfect combination for a lifeguard! You’re hardworking and love being rewarded, and nothing is more rewarding than knowing that you have the potential to save someone’s life.

You’ll also have a great tan when it’s time to go back to school.

If you chose mostly E’s:

You should work retail this summer. Put your fashion and organizational skills to the test. Apply to work at your favorite store; this way, you will already know the layout of the store and the type of people who shop there. Also, you can also take advantage of the employee discount when it is time to go back to school shopping.

If you chose mostly F’s:

You should work as in intern. Whether you are paid or not, your hard work and determination will shine through, and you will learn a lot about a field of work that interests you. It will also help you build relationships with connections that may help you out later in life when you are thinking of starting a business of your own.

14 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

Stretching Students Senseless With every ring of the bell, students set forth on a routine trek through the chaotic hallways of Wilson High School. As each class passes, it is apparent that the morale and willingness to learn is being drained from their faces. This fatigue can be attributed to a systematic deprivation of sleep. Why are they missing out on those much-needed hours of rest? Because they are up into the late hours of the night, cranking out assignments until their homework is done. The 8 period schedule runs students into the ground. They are expected to give their unwavering attention to four classes a day for the duration of an hour and 33 minutes each; classes that often requiring up to an hour of homework per class every night. If you know kids at all, there is no denying that they can’t sit still and retain information for that long. When students are behind on sleep, the teachers are especially aware of this. Some teachers can be very accommodating, allowing their students a five-minute break, but even they know that it’s not enough. The strenuous workload and lack of sleep caused by the 8 period schedule go hand in hand, wrecking havoc in students’ lives. Both teachers and students are on the same page on the opposition in 8 period schedule. So why is it still happening?

Some parents or administrators may argue that the 8 period schedule works best. However those people are only looking at calculations printed on a sheet of paper.

All of these decisions are being put into place not by those “on the battlefield,” those interacting with the students daily, but by those involved in the business aspect of education. What the “Higher-Ups”, The Board of Education, want to see are higher test scores. This concern is thanks to the Common Core education requirements,

instated by President Barack Obama, in order to increase the “quality” of education in all schools. Which is a nice thought, and logistically, having 8 periods should produce this outcome. Having 8 classes also means having a block schedule, which should allow for more instruction and work time, along with more choices and opportunities for taking a variety of classes. This all sounds great. However, when you put it into action, it doesn’t work.

When time came around to fill out forecasting sheets for the following year, I observed a commonality among a great deal of young intellectuals. Very few students were taking advantage of the 8 periods given to them. Instead, those students would rather have a late arrival or an early dismissal. When I queried them about their decision, it was as if I was listening to a broken record. They said that the workload was too much, or that they had no time anymore, or that their anxiety had been acting up. For all these reasons, the 8 periods that the district has been so keen on keeping around, are not even being used the way they were intended. Despite administrations’ wishes, counselors strongly urge their students to only take six or seven classes opposed to eight. This is because they see first hand how students who take eight classes are being pushed to their breaking points.

To keep from falling apart under the pressure, you have to allow yourself time to recover. However some students do not have that “luxury.” The “lack of time” isn’t so much referring to the lack of time to do the extra work for outside of class completion, but more so referring to the lack of time to do what most teenagers, or people in general should be able to do. I’m talking social interaction, exercise, creative exploration, and simply put, down time.

15

These things are not taken into account by schools. But why not? In “Imagine: How Creativity Works” by Jonah Lehrer, he recalls a visit he took to the Google headquarters.

There, he found nap rooms, which were always full. This wasn’t because their employees were seeking an escape from their jobs, it was because this down time allowed for free, innovative thinking. Down time allows for us to not only rest and recoup our bodies, but to also engage in self-exploration. It allows us to ponder thought and make connections between what we learn at school to the world around us.

Not only do students lack time to think, they also lack time to sleep. According to recent studies, while adults need 7-9 hours of sleep, teenagers (ages 14-17) need somewhere between 8 and 10 (www.sleepfoundation.org) Wilson students dream of having such restful sleep. Failing to meet this nightly quota can lead to complications such as symptoms of depression, lack of concentration, irritability, skin problems and irregular weight gain. With a multitude of studies providing homogenous results, it would make sense that our school when devising a schedule, district would take into careful consideration the amount of sleep students are getting, but that isn’t happening at all. Consider an average student’s schedule. Wake up at 6:30, go to school for seven hours, maybe an extra-curricular which would add an hour and a half, then about 2 hours of homework; that is over half of the day dedicated to school alone. Personally, I have family responsibilities like watching my sister and completing chores around the house, which soak up a good couple of hours, and then I will spend an hour or two to recoup and socialize via the internet. I average 7 hours of sleep on a school night. Trust me when I say it’s not enough. I know some students that only get 6. Growing kids shouldn’t have to stretch themselves that thin. When you do, the easier it is to break.

To break, to reach the tipping point, to crack under the pressure, whatever you may call it, it is something I know far too well. Not only from my own experiences, but through watching my friends as well. It is truly heart breaking to watch those that you love suffocate under the same lung crushing anxiety you feel every day, and have nothing you can do to help. You can’t do their homework for them, you can’t make teachers have time to explain what they aren’t grasping, and you just have to watch them

16 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

hurt the way you do. Every day there is a kid sitting in the counselors office having a panic attack because all of it at once- classes, friends, family- is too much. And what do they (the district, the principal, God, whomever you want to blame) do? They give us a yoga class. While greatly appreciated and affective for some, you can’t expect it to comfort every anxiety-ridden child. There needs to be more of an effort made by the school, and it needs to happen fast.

So what are we missing out on? If we were to have a seven period schedule, it might look like this: All seven classes on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays for 50 minutes each. Then we would have a late opening/tutor time type deal and the first three classes on Wednesdays, and the last four classes on Thursdays, much like our block schedule. How I see it, we would see our teachers more frequently, and there would be a much needed continuity to our learning. And with the shorter periods and lightened load, the school experience would suddenly become less grueling. Not every system is perfect, and 7 periods certainly won’t cater to every students’ needs; however, it will address the most crucial ones.

The success of a school cannot be told on a piece of paper, it can only be observed by being in it, by experiencing it. Teachers will reminisce on the days of the 7 period schedule and tell you of a time much happier than the one in which we are currently living. A 7 period schedule will not cure teenage depression or anxiety, however the 8 period schedule is certainly making it worse. Administrators are lying to themselves if they think that under this schedule students are thriving because the truth is that they are dying. Today our peers are suffering more than ever and the people looking after us should be doing everything they can to change that. We need to get something going in the right direction, and changing the schedule would do just that. Let every broken and tired teenager serve as a call to action and a plea for change.

Kaya Noteboom Sophomore

Photos by Kaya Noteboom

Chris Bartlo: Virtually Unstoppable

17

There is a dark feel in the air and the sky is plagued by shadow. A lone warrior, clad in armor, walks along a dungeon riddled plain. Enemies lurk in the dark, and dragons and goblin kings dwell in the depths. The air reeks of danger and festering filth, but to one warrior, these dangers do not matter. He, accompanied

filled with other players with whom you could do battle, go adventuring, or hang out.

While attending university, Bartlo was writing an essay about the value of virtual goods in video games. Fantasy games with adventure and lore were alluring to him, so when he was writing his essay, he decided it might be a good idea to play a videogame to enrich his essay with

by a legion of friends, fearlessly dives into any crevice

first-hand knowledge. The game he decided to play was

of this perilous world. He fights any foe and walks away

Everquest, and upon entering the make-believe world of

victorious from the most treacherous of battles. This coura-

Norrath, he was quickly enthralled. What immediately

geous warrior’s name: Mr. Bartlo.

appealed to him was the ability to explore and immerse

This treacherous world Bartlo braved for three years

himself in the vast world. He loved exploring all the many

was called Everquest. Released March 16th, 1999,

regions of Norrath and taking on the quests he came

Everquest was one of the first massively multiplayer online

across. The game had a sense of endless conquest and

role playing games. It allowed players to explore and do

the freedom to do almost anything you wanted.

battle in the gigantic world of Norrath. Everquest featured

“The opportunity to explore with a group of friends was

many dangerous creatures, dark monsters, and non-player

something I really enjoyed, ” Bartlo said. With a world as

characters offering a wide array of different quests and

vast and varied as Norrath, it was easy to get lost both

missions,and enough variety to satisfy the most adventur-

physically and figuratively. Everquest hosted people not

ous of explorers. More importantly it was an open world

only from the U.S, but from all over the world. “I hung out

18 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

with people all the time, and I knew a lot about them and their personal lives. We hung out like any other group of

This separated him from the rest of Everquest players.

After playing Everquest for the better part of three years,

friends,” Bartlo said. You could play with people from Asia

Bartlo was starting to get second thoughts. Everquest was

or Europe on a regular basis. This part of the game was a

called Evercrack by many, as it was extremely addicting,

great hook for someone like Bartlo. While he had friends

and Bartlo had not been immune. The fun of exploration

in Los Angeles during the day, at night when they were all

and discovery was starting to feel stale,and the raiding

asleep, he had his friends in Everquest.

and questing was becoming trivial. The game was lacking

During this time, Bartlo would only sleep about 4

some special essence which attracted him to it in the first

hours a night. This allowed him to play the game after

place. The sense of wonder and excitement in exploring

he finished his work for the day. It didn’t take him long to

Norrath, and being able to hang out with friends and do

level up to an elite character. During his peak, Bartlo was

anything in a world of endless possibilities was waning.

co-leader of a guild, consisting of about 120 other play-

Playing the game started to feel like a job, instead of

ers. With his guild, he would regularly set out to conquer

something Bartlo wanted to do, so he decided it was time

foes and destroy powerful adversaries in a quest to obtain

to quit Everquest. “I stopped playing Everquest when it felt

the best equipment possible at the time. The process of

like a chore, so I felt it was time to turn the page,” Bartlo

acquiring these special items in the game was not neces-

said. Because he had won the tournament and held a

sarily easy. Sometimes it would take 40 or 80 people to

special title, he was able to sell his character for thou-

clear dungeons and defeat the final boss. It would take

sands of dollars and say goodbye to his Everquest career.

him and his friends hours to raid a dungeon. His flow of

He spent the money he made on a trip to Italy.“I wanted

wealth and equipment became almost perpetual. With

to quit and not be tempted to come back,” Bartlo said.

more items than he had use for, he decided to sell them and earn money off the game. ”I did a lot of trading, so I would spend time research-

In Italy, Bartlo hardly touched a computer and was able to enjoy the outdoors. He went to many places in Italy, like Rome and Florence, and took Italian classes with

ing prices and developing my trading network,” Bartlo

his girlfriend. Like in Everquest, he met new people from

said. It wasn’t his main source of income, but it was good

all over the world. These days Bartlo looks back on his

money nonetheless. Through special websites, Bartlo was

Everquest career with great fondness, and he has watched

able to sell his loot to others. This source of income rare-

with interest as competitive gaming has transformed into

ly ran dry as there was no end of dragons to slay, and

a serious Profession. “I believe that it is as hard to become

perilous dungeons to delve into, it was all great fun. Bartlo

a professional gamer as it is to become a professional

had a large database in his room which he used to track

athlete,” Bartlo said. Becoming a professional gamer takes

playtime. He also kept timers in his room as a means to

a lot of skill and time, and Bartlo can proudly say at one

make sure the operation succeeded without a hitch. When

point, in the world of Norrath, he was one of the best

he wasn’t questing or doing raids, he was usually selling

gamers around.

his loot or researching prices on his other monitor.

Around the end of Bartlo’s Everquest career, he entered a game-wide tournament which pitted him against some

Aidan Ormond Sophomore

of the most elite players in the game. Bartlo, through skill and prowess, left the tournament victorious, and was awarded the most prestigious and elite title in the game.

Photos by Aidan Ormond

19

A Grand Pianist

Walking across the stage, approaching his throne of

when I write music, I tend to listen to more orchestrated

musicality, Ben Markin takes a seat. As he begins to play,

pieces,” Markin said. “I listen to them to draw inspiration

the audience locks onto the swift flicks of his hands as he

for my own pieces.”

deftly executes each keystroke, playing a faultless melody.

Performing is only one side of Markin’s musical talent.

Music fills the empty corners of the Cosgrove Auditorium,

He also has a passion for composition. Once you witness

and when his ballad comes to a close, a hoot and holler

what Markin is able to concoct, there is no room to judge.

rings through the crowd.

Constructing melodical tunes in GarageBand and Pro-

“It feels as though I am unmoving when I am up on

Tools at home and during his sound engineering class,

stage. It’s truly about feeling confident in what you play

Markin has plenty of practice. With these resources at

and being one with what you are playing,” Markin said

hand, Markin goes through an intricate process to execute

Markin isn’t your average Wilson High School student.

Incorporating the musical arts into his daily life, he envelops himself in the performing arts.

Markin was introduced to the black and white keys and

samples of rhythmic genius.

“First, I will assign the melody to a specific instrument; usually, it will go to strings or a light brass,” Markin said.

“Once I do that, depending on the difficulty of the part, I

sharp and flat tones of the piano when he was seven. At

find the back up and the arrangement suitable to accom-

first, he found himself dreading the days he had to go to

pany bass instruments,” Markin said.

lessons, but as he grew older, Markin began to develop

Once the basic progressions are in order, Markin

a profound respect for this unique instrument. With this re-

cleans things up and adds his own flare to the piece

spect came his experimentation with musical composition.

followed by the finishing touches.

“I often listen to contemporary artists like Billy Joel, but

20 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

“You have to find a balance between rhythm and melo-

dy by adding an ostinato; lightly playing a note over and

my passion, but they are a hobby of mine. Growing up, I

over again. By doing so, you have added texture to the

learned how to play the xylophone, acoustic guitar, bass

piece; no one wants to hear one long, boring note. Add-

guitar, saxophone, and electric guitar. You could say music

ing percussion is the final step and by then I have a song.

is somewhat of an outlet for me,” Markin said.

I do this with each motif of each song,” Markin said.

If you have ever heard the tracks to “Lord of the Rings”

His mastery of the performing arts didn’t come without proper mentorship. Over his three years at Wilson, Markin

as the camera pans over the country, you can get a grasp

has received special instruction from his Jazz Band and

of what Markin is trying to achieve. Through this both

Sound Engineering professor, Nick Caldwell.

extensive and rigorous process, Markin stitches together a

“Mr. Caldwell has taught me so much over the years,

symphony pleasing to the auditory senses. However, with-

including how to use the programs I mix my original tracks

out inspiration and plenty of structure his process would

with. He has definitely been a big part of my success and,

be flawed.

initially, was the one who convinced me to be a part of

“The concept of a song comes from when I play the piano, not from when I am working with ProTools. I usually

the talent show,” Markin said.

Having taught Markin for three years, Nick Caldwell

write good chunks of a song all at once and the rest of

has formed a rather close relationship with Markin that is

it will come over time. Putting together all of the integral

a balance of banter sarcasm and instruction.

parts of a song can only really be done in a short amount

“Markin has undeniable talent. He has been a great

of time because that is when all of your ideas are present.

addition to the class and a REAL joy over the years,” Cald-

It’s hard to not write a song at a piano because, often

well said, with a hint of sarcasm.

times, you’ll forget everything by the time you get there,” Markin said.

There is no success without support, and Markin has

Despite his signature poker face, Markin is as stressed out as any junior during the build up to the college application process. Looking to attend a college with a

constant backing from his parents and peers. Jim and

strong music program, Markin hopes to turn up at the San

Cathy Markin, Markin’s parents, were the first to witness his

Francisco Conservatory of Music. With a total enrollment

passion to play.

of 174 undergraduate students, Markin will have to work

“Ben fell in love with piano at a very young age. Al-

harder than he ever has before to be admitted. Attending

though we could tell that he wasn’t enjoying it at first, we

a college that specializes particularly in music would lay

knew that if he kept with it he could do something great.”

the foundation for the musical career that Markin wishes

Markin’s mother, Karen Markin said.

to pursue.

As an intermediate piano player, Markin performed at a variety of recitals.

“I was never really nervous; then again, I’m never really

“Piano has become a very large part of my life, and I find myself dedicating most of my time to it. There is an endless amount of keystrokes that can be paired together

nervous for a lot of things. If I’m passionate about some-

to create a unique ballad,” Markin said. “The goal is to

thing and have put in a fair amount of practice, then there

create something someone hasn’t heard before, something

should be nothing to worry about,” Markin said.

that is impossible to forget.”

Markin’s musical talents aren’t limited to solely the piano. As his passion for piano flourished, so did his interest in other instruments.

Ian Morgan Junior

“I wouldn’t call knowing how to play these instruments Photos by Ian Morgan

21

Silence of The Hands

22 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

If you walked by room 225, you wouldn’t be able to

she feels that ASL 1-2 is just the beginning of the lan-

tell there were thirty high school students inside; the class

guage and culture of ASL. She is also looking forward to

is dead silent. Peeking your head inside you’d find Mrs.

working with the kids who are more comfortable signing

Erika Luther at the head of the class gracefully twisting and

since the first few months of ASL 1-2 can be very awkward.

conforming her hands, and students awkwardly trying to

“Most of the kids aren’t used to being in a class this

imitate her movements. This is the American Sign Lan-

silent,” Luther said. “I had a few students come up to tell

guage class.

me they felt uncomfortable and thought it was awkward,

There are a lot of misconceptions about American Sign Language. For example, most people believe if you know the signs you know enough to have a conversation. This

which is understandable. It’s probably the first time in their high school career that the room is completely silent.”

It can be very uncomfortable for the students consider-

isn’t entirely accurate. American Sign Language has it’s

ing this is an unfamiliar practice. Before this class, none of

own grammar; often people will form the sentences in the

these students were signing, let alone to a class of thirty

“I had a few students come up of their peers. When a “What is your name?” But the student goes up to sign to tell me they felt uncomfortactual sign order is, “Yourto the class, it is silent and name-what?” Luther likes to able and thought it was awk- everyone is watching. focus on clearing up these Freshman Dean White ward, which is understandable. misconceptions, introducing who had previously taken her students to the culture It’s probably the first time in Spanish said, “It is weird and stories of ASL. at first. I mean, you’re ustheir high school career that To ensure her class develing your hands; we never ops a clear understanding the room is completely silent.” did that in Spanish. At the English word order such as

of the language and its

beginning, it is also very

impact in the deaf and hearing worlds, Luther incorporates

uncomfortable because it is completely silent and all eyes

many documentaries and speakers. This is important to

are on you, but you become more comfortable.”

her because she has been able to witness first-hand the

The class may be silent, but that doesn’t mean the

differences and similarities between the deaf and hearing

students don’t have fun. Luther likes to incorporate games

communities. Often times deaf people have to do a lot of

and tries to keep the class light. Often times the students

the work in everyday life such as lip reading or having an

will make mistakes and sign something different from what

interpreter in social situations, and she wants her students

they are planning. Luther is aware of the mistakes and

to be aware of the struggles the deaf community still faces.

doesn’t make a big deal about it. Often times she’ll laugh

She also makes sure that her class is using not only their

alongside her class.

hands but their facial expressions, which are known as

Freshmen Hannah Anyang, said, “I love this class. It is

non-manual markers, a staple of the deaf community and

a lot of fun and we have already learned so much. Mrs.

sign language. She likes to focus on how the deaf commu-

Luther is a great teacher, and she is so funny. I am really

nity doesn’t view being deaf as a handicap; it’s a part of

excited to be taking ASL 3-4 next year.”

who they are.

This isn’t Luther’s first teaching assignment, although it

There are currently three ASL 1-2 classes with plans to

is quite different. She used to teach American Sign Lan-

introduce an ASL 3-4 next year. Luther was thrilled that the

guage to deaf or hard of hearing students and would

students wanted to continue with the language because

also teach the parents of deaf babies. Vice Principal

23

Maude Lamonts came up with the idea for the class, and

by the different cultures and stories specific to the region

when Luther heard about this surprising job opportunity

which results in all different kinds of sign languages.

she was excited to try something new. There aren’t any

Although there is no reading or writing in ASL, it is incor-

other sign language classes in the PPS so she was excited

porated in the class. The students use the DVDs from their

to be a part of it.

textbook to complete assignments, most of which involve

“It’s a challenge because I am opening these high

writing down what was signed. However, Luther also likes

schoolers’ eyes to a culture and community they didn’t

to include journal prompts about issues that still face the

know about,” Luther said. “It is also really amazing be-

deaf community today, taking students beyond knowledge

cause it’s something different from what I am used to and

of the language to an awareness of the culture surround-

exciting for the students.”

ing it.

For students who struggle in a traditional language

While there are some similarities between ASL and

class, ASL offers a unique alternative. Luther, who had

English, there are also quite a few differences in not only

taken Spanish for four years in high school and one year

the language, but the culture surrounding it. As hearing

in college, could never get the hang of it even though she

people we often see being deaf as a handicap, but

has Hispanic roots. She was introduced to ASL through a

deaf people don’t. They know they could get a cochlear

family member who worked with deaf people. Luther then

implant to hear again, but many of them choose not to.

enrolled in an ASL class at college, excited for what was

Since they aren’t able to express emotions through speak-

to come. She found she was able to communicate with

ing, when signing, deaf people have to use a lot of facial

only a small vocabulary thanks to fingerspelling: spelling

expression to portray what they’re feeling. This culture and

things out with the sign for letters. Unlike Spanish, she

pride is deeply ingrained in the deaf community, in a way

quickly felt comfortable using the language outside of the

no hearing person would be able to relate to. This class

classroom.

celebrates that culture.

“The visual portion of sign language is different than another language or subject,” Luther said. “Our auditory skills are used so often during the day that sign language can be a nice break and very helpful to students who are visual learners.”

Sign language isn’t about accents or being able to

Quinn Vlacich Sophomore

roll your r’s, it is an art form that is expressed through the movement of your hands and face. Signs are influenced

24 TROJAN HORSE

MAY 2015

Photo by Quinn Vlacich

Wilson’s Newest Upgrade Although there are still nearly 117,993,000 Americans

step into green energy for Portland Public Schools. Howev-

who do not believe in global warming, here in Portland,

er, the main benefit of these solar panels may not be the

changes are being made. It’s evident in the whirring

energy they produce.

swooshes of our endless streams of cyclists, and in the

Part of the aforementioned $4.6 million price tag in-

almost inaudible hum of Priuses (Prii?). You can see it

cludes new curriculum for schools involving the new solar

downtown, whether it be the hundreds of trees pumping

panels.

clean oxygen into the air, or the famous green streets,

“This demonstration project will not only deliver energy

streets made porous with the use of plants and soil as

to the grid, but renewable education resources to stu-

filters, allowing stormwater to replenish the groundwa-

dents and the community,” Jim Piro, president and CEO

ter supply. Businesses and homes aren’t the only ones

of Portland General Electric, said. Although nothing has

converting to green energy, Portland Public Schools has

been said as to how in depth the curriculum will be, a

gotten on board as well, introducing a plan to install solar

proposed partnership with Boneville Environmental Foun-

panel roofs on six Portland Public Schools: Arleta, Bridlemile, Hosford Middle School, James John, Lau-

The 4,000 new solar panels will generate more than 1.2 megawatts per hour, enough to power over 100 homes.

relhurst, and Wilson High School.

All six schools had new roofs installed back in 2012 as

dation may supply PPS schools with curriculum, professional training for teachers, interactive project kiosks,

and learning kits and materials for students. It is unclear whether these units will be available only at schools with

a part of the School Building Improvement Bond, making

solar panels and if they will remain as units rather than

them all suitable for a solar upgrade. The 4,000 new solar

fully fledged courses. Either way, this will plant the seed of

panels will generate more than 1.2 megawatts per hour,

green energy in young minds, which will hopefully set the

enough to power over 100 homes, or around the power

evolution of renewable energy in motion.

output of a P-51 Mustang Fighter Jet. Although it will not

This is, then, a very good step in the right direction for

be enough to fully convert these schools to solar energy, it

PPS. It will help to provide a financial benefit to PPS, gen-

will still have a large impact on our energy spending and

erate renewable energy, and provide a proper education

decrease our global footprint.

on renewable energy for young minds. Seeing as this is

This $4.6 million project is a joint effort with Portland

simply a showcase project, it seems likely that this is a

General Electric, who will be funding $2 million through

trend that more Portland Public Schools will see in coming

their 110,000 renewable energy customers. There are

years. Until then, we could all do well to take a minute to

also up to $1 million in incentives that may be awarded

learn about the benefits of renewable and clean energy

by the energy trust of Oregon once the panels are in

to give back to the world that gives so much to us.

place. Over the next 25 years, these solar panels alone will give 29 million kilowatt hours, which equates to over 39 million pounds of carbon dioxide avoided, 44 million

Jamie Valentine Senior

miles not driven, or enough to power circa 1998 Zimbabwe for 30 years. Needless to say, this is a significant first

Photos by Jamie Valentine

25

@WHSTrojanHorse Front cover: Olivia Whittaker Back cover: Ben Markin Photos by Erica Keaveny and Ian Morgan

LEGAL

(503) 916-3963

Local Civil Rights inquiries

District 504 inquiries

Brian Chatard, Title VI, IX Coordinator (503) 916-5280

Tammy Jackson, Director, Student Services (503) 916-5460

Maude Lamont, 504 Coordinator (503) 916-5280 District Title vi & ix inquiries

26 TROJAN HORSE

Greg Wolleck 2015 HSMAY Regional Administrator

American Disabilities Act Contact Maureen Sloan, HR Legal Counsel Human Resources - BESC (503) 916-3025