Junto the Women 2021 What Do WE Think? the Path Was Made Long Ago

The Junto Women’s History Month Edition

3/23/2021 Galle

I had form’d most of my ingenious acquaintances into a club of mutual improvement, which we called The Junto. 1-Benjamin Franklin

chme://media-a 1/1 The Junto The Women 2021 what do WE think? The Path was made long ago

Jeannine N Capecci// advisor Women in education have come a long way since Miss. Beadle, the long-suffering teacher in Little House on the Prairie, was forced to give up her profession when she decided to get married. Marriage Bars, which were actually not totally abolished until 1977, were just one of the ways women were treated inequitably in schools around the world. But since those days on the prairie, the roles of women in education have substantially changed.

For me, growing up in the 1970s and attending Tracy Elementary school, my female teachers were surrogate mothers, aunties, and sometimes even big sisters. Their nurturing helped me make the transition from the safety and comfort of home to a world where my mother wasn’t there to make decisions for me or protect me. My female teachers in particular served a tremendous role, helping me to stand on my own, teaching me the skills I needed both academically and personally, while still drying my tears when I fell off the swing.

Here at EAHS, the women who have gone before me were mavericks in their own right. Like the group of female teachers in the early 1970’s who challenged the archaic dress code requiring all female teachers to wear skirts or dresses to work. According to legend the standoff lasted a day or two and resulted in several women ending up in the principal’s office, threatened with being sent home without pay, for daring to wear pants suits. They won that fight, and although the right to wear pants may seem insignificant to modern women, its impact was a tremendous victory at the time.

Terri Sayago, Pat Zwald-Kuypers, Anna Drago, Patricia Cook, Carolyn Zingone, Kathy Dowd, Eileen Zulli, and Carolyn Mayrosh are only a very few of the strong women who paved the way for the rest of us here at Easton Area High School. They raised their voices and broke the rules, helping to close the gender gap in the world of education. Some may have wished they’d kept their mouths shut, but I for one am glad they didn’t.

The Junto dedicated this issue to the Women of Easton Area High School. From teachers and administrators, bus drivers and cafeteria workers, custodians and para-professionals, nurses and secretaries, women have left their mark on this institution, through innovation and compassion. They have served as role models for the young women who have walked these halls and gone out into the world blazing a trail. And they always will. People The Junto The Women 2021 Nurses: Healers with Heart

Branden Cunard // P.O.V Editor

What a time to be a nurse, if you ask me. In the middle of a global pandemic, let alone being in a high school setting, having the du- ties of being a nurse at EAHS is arguably one of the toughest jobs right now. Nurse Keegan, one of our beloved nurses here at EAHS, has been on top of things since the beginning. She has been sending out email after email to students making sure they are healthy and safe with guidelines regarding what to do if they are sick, testing positive for COVID-19, being exposed to the coron- avirus, etc. It is time these lovely nurses at Easton get the proper spotlight they deserve. It is worth noting that all of our nurses at EAHS are all women, which is honestly iconic if you ask me since all of them are amazing human be- ings with beautiful souls. Since the beginning of the school year, they have all done an amazing job with not only keeping students informed, but the parents as well. By sending out letters to parents ensuring that no student will go unaccounted for if they are experi- encing symptoms, falling ill, etc, they have created, essentially, a safe space to know that a student will be taken care of. Being in any kind of medical ﬁeld, you are almost guaranteed to be exposed on a daily basis to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here we are today, still having open doors to the high school with students walking around with masks and getting somewhat of an education. If you ask me, they have not been given the proper spotlight, and what a better time to ﬁnally let them shine. It is International Women’s Month, and here I am honoring the powerful nursing staff here at EAHS. I do not know how many times I can say thank you for everything you do. I wish you stay safe and healthy through these tough times :)) Thanks queens AHHHH

3 People The Junto The Women 2021

Featured Teacher: Carly Egberts Mallika Pal // Places Editor

Ms. Egberts is the Biology and Anatomy Teacher here as well as NHS Advisor and Case Manager. She is known for her kindness and for being a strong role mod- el for many in this school.

Q: How long have you been teaching has become famous, she has been rais- at Easton and what did you do before ing funds for UNICEF. I like her you were here? quote, “nothing says impossible like I’m possible!” A: 4 years, I attended Elizabethtown college and majored in Biology educa- Q: Who is your biggest female inspi- tion. ration at EAHS? Q: Do you prefer teaching Biology or A: Ms. Lutte. She was a strong leader. Anatomy? She taught me the importance of re- ﬂection, and that continuing to work A: I love both, but I especially love the hard will ultimately get you to your way anatomy provides many real goals. world applications that are relevant to students looking to go into medicine. Q: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give your female students? Q: What is your favorite topic to teach? A: Always ﬁnd the joy in learning. A: For biology, my favorite is ecology, Q: What is your favorite movie? and for anatomy, I love teaching about the heart. A: Breakfast at Tiffany’s Q: Who is your biggest female inspi- Q: Starbucks or Dunkin? ration? A: Starbucks A: Audrey Hepburn. She grew up Q: What’s your order? during World War II and had to go through a rough patch of not having A: Grande cinnamon dolce latte with access to items she needed. Since she almond milk and no whip

4 People The Junto The Women 2021 Women in motion: Athletic Trainers

3/23/2021 Sienna Walenciak Galle// People Editor

Most Easton athletes likely know the school’s much more recognition in our positions now, as athletic trainers, who prep students for practices females.” and games and tend to any sports-related mishaps that occur. For Women’s History I asked the trainers if they’ve ever felt that they Month, the Junto team had been treated differ- interviewed our three ently in their profession female trainers on staff: as opposed to their male Rochelle Gilbert, Tracy counterparts. “Absolute- Lenoir, and Julia Lobas- ly,” says Lobasso. “Big so. sports, like football and wrestling, have a hard There are five athletic time accepting that a trainers total at both the woman could be in middle and high school charge of a male domi- campuses, and Gilbert, nated program. You who has been in her po- have to show them that sition for 23 years, was just because you’re a the first female trainer. woman doesn’t mean “Before me, there were you’re not capable of no female athletic train- doing what a man does.” ers,” she says. “I was Gilbert and Lenoir hired because they were agreed, with the former looking for a female ath- adding, “Or they want a letic trainer to handle second opinion - they the female sports.” Now, want a male athletic though, there are more trainer there, too!” female athletic trainers than males, marking a Finally, our athletic sharp change in the trainers gave us insight years since Gilbert started. into what Women’s History Month means to them . “I don’t think it should take a month for “You’ll find more females at the professional women to be recognized for what they do,” ranking,” says Lenoir when asked about how Gilbert explains. Lenoir and Lobasso nodded in females in the professionchme://media-a of athletic training has agreement. “But I think it brings1/1 awareness to changed over time. “When I graduated from different professions that people think women Temple in 1996, not many women worked for aren’t a part of. For us, women are rising in the the NFL or other professional sports. Now, athletic training field and holding higher profes- you’ll see there are women as head athletic sions. I think it’s great that women get recog- trainers for professional teams. We’re getting nized for that, now and always,” added Gilbert.

5 People The Junto The Women 2021

Featured Paraprofessionals: Gale Elliott Colette Potter // Copy Editor Q: Tell us your name and some background in- nineties now), when she worked for Bethlehem formation! Steel, if you got engaged, you could not be an executive secretary, which she was. And then A: It’s Gale Elliott. And, I am a paraprofession- she got back into the pool, and then after that, al at Easton Area High School. I have been at when she got married, she could stay in the the high school for 26 years. pool of secretaries, but af- I have been in Special-Ed, I ter she got pregnant, she have been in Alternative- could no longer work at Ed, and I am now in the li- Bethlehem. So she raised brary. my brothers, but I was her only daughter. She raised Q: What made you want to me to get to the next level. become a paraprofessional? Go to college, and pursue some kind of career. So of A: Actually, my degree is in course with my daughter, nursing. When my kids she has a career. She has were little, I had 12 hour children, she is married, shifts, and it wasn’t fun. but she has a career. I am And so I started subbing as in that in between age. a nurse in the district, and then it kind of spilled over Q: What is your favorite into helping in other ways. I book by a female author? became a paraprofessional, and then it became a full A: As of right now, I am time job. reading two. One is, I’m a recent widow, so I am read- Q: Who is another woman ing Megan Devine’s It’s at Easton you admire? OK That You’re Not OK. And I am also reading, of A: There was a woman be- course, the Bridgerton se- fore me, and her name was ries- Sir Fellow and Eloise- Helen Miller. She was an and that is by Julia Quinn. amazing mom, and she worked with the IU for a Q: Librarians and many number of years, and she others in education were was a mentor at school traditionally male. How do when I started 26 years ago, until she retired. you think the gender roles in your job, and in And, she was just incredibly supportive and a education (in general) have changed? And do good mentor. There are plenty of people here you think the same goes for paraprofessionals that are still working here that have been won- too? derful too. Noreen McNamara has been a really good friend. It’s been good. A: Well that is a great question for Mrs. Soffera. I do think men used to run more libraries, but it Q: Who are your female inspirations? should have never been based on a gender. We haven’t shifted as much as I would like. But we A: Honestly, the classic is my mother, who was a are also one of the lower paid salaries, so I don’t stay-at-home mom. She had been a professional think people pursue as long as some, but hope- woman, but at that time (she would be in her fully that will change. 6 People The Junto The Women 2021 continued... Q: Any ﬁnal thoughts on women at Easton? A: I will mention two things. I went here and graduated from here in 1974, and I absolutely love working in the library, love working with Deb (Mrs. Soffera), who has been a technical consultant everyday to not only myself, but many others in the building, and an endless wealth of knowledge with a kind heart to students, staff and community. When my husband, Bob, passed away 18 months ago, Deb Sof- fera became a beacon of light for me, as a fog of grief descended around me. She has been a breath of fresh air. Easton’s community does what it does best and helps each other pull through. I was helped by many ﬁne people in this EAHS building. (women and men). & Barbara Nicholas

Gabriella Feltmann // Copy Editor Q: How do you think your job has changed over the years, as a woman in this position? A: I think it’s just become that I have more contact with the kids, being in technology, because there’s always something that needs ﬁxing, something that I can either have an answer for right away or something that I can talk to a coworker about. It’s deﬁnitely changed for the better. Q: Who are some female idols you look up to? A: The new vice president, for one. Also female nurses and doctors, especially those that work with children, and teachers. Q: When was a time you were proud to be a woman? A: When I had my kids. I had a set of triplets, and that was a big moment for me. Q: What do you believe is special about Women’s History Month? A: Women collaborating, especially older women working with younger women, sharing experiences and trying to make the world a better place for younger generations. Q: Who is another female staff member at EAHS that you think deserves to be highlighted? A: The other women that are in the Writing Lab with me, Ms. Gray and Mrs. Arnts.

7 Points Of View The Junto The Women 2021 Female Artists Alania Mariano // Editor-In-Chief If you are looking for the ultimate female artist playlist to celebrate Women’s History Month, listen to the songs below or click the link to go straight to The Junto’s Spotify playlist! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1NVXUAQVRccI3j1l7rPtxu?

8 People The Junto The Women 2021 Our Guidance Counselors

Branden Cunard // P.O.V Edi-

A notable feature of EAHS is the esteemed Guidance Depart- ment. From college counseling to being supportive during men- tal breakdowns, the lovely women (Mr. Okorji, you are still an icon, trust and believe) located in their offices are always there for each of their students. I like to think of the guidance counselors as supportive pillows throughout our high school lives. We, as teenagers, tend to have horrendous days filled with a cauldron-mixed brew of stress, anxiety, and literal tears. Sometimes, we just need to “talk to our pillows and let everything loose.” Much like our pillows, the guidance department allows us to vent with a feeling of comfort and no judgement. Having women be the majority of the department feels “right,” in a way. It’s powerful, especially when all of them are known by name across the entire school district. We see how they have become more than a typical guidance counselor. For example, Mrs. Jayant is heavily involved with the South Asian Student Association. Ms. Day is one of the key faculty members who is also heavily involved with our very own band. Ms. Orlena keeps track of all of our AP struggles with exams and information, especially since this year is so wonky, needless to say. As an un- derstatement, they are SLAYING the game. And on top of all of their efforts, they just so happen to be iconic women of East- on Area High School. After all of the college letters of recommendations and scholar- ship information, the Guidance Department of EAHS is leg- endary for all of their esteemed efforts, and not to mention their apropos fashion statements. Thank you for everything you do! P.S, from the eyes of a senior, thank you for helping me and the rest of the Class of 2021 for these past four years. It definitely must be nice to see your students go off to college knowing that you had a hand in their futures :) 9 People The Junto The Women 2021

Featured Librarian: Debra Soffera Colette Potter // Copy Editor

Q: Tell us your name and some background in- wonderfully smart, talented, funny, and dedicat- formation! ed people who make working at Easton HS a place I enjoy coming to every day. A: Debra Soffera. I grew up in Lansdale, which is a little south of here. So, before I started Q: Who are your female inspirations? working here, I was a sales rep, and then I went back to school for teaching and got certified to A: There are so many women, and I know this be a librarian, and ended up at Easton. sounds cliche, and I didn’t appreciate it growing up, but I do have to say my mom. She was such Q: What made you want to become a librarian? a real trailblazer, and you can’t see it when you’re in it, and she is no longer around. She A: I think that I was wasn’t one of those always a very curious women who was go- kid. I mean I liked to ing to let a lot of read, but more than things define her, and anything, I was always a lot of societal pres- interested in knowl- sures and things like edge and information. that. When my par- That is what really ents separated, she drew me to the field; didn’t remarry. That’s answers, research, what she wanted to learning. More than do. She got her mas- anything, I think that ters degree, she could there is this misnomer take care of herself, that librarians just and marched on want to sit around Washington. She was and read all day. And one of those kinds of yes, we do with novels. people not afraid to But for me, I think the nonfiction end of being speak her mind. She grew up in a time when a librarian is what drew me into the field. women weren’t attractive if they were ambitious or outspoken, or opinionated, and she was all of Q: Who is another woman at Easton you ad- those things. mire? Q: What is your favorite book by a female au- A: That’s a really hard question. I have to say, I thor? cannot list just one person. All my colleagues, past colleagues, and women I have met within A: Nora Ephron, Mindy Kaling, Maya An- the community all bring something different gelou, Tina Fey, Anna Quinlan... I grew up lis- and unique to the table. I admire a lot of tening to Erma Bombeck essays that my mom women I work with for so many different rea- would read to me so am sure that is why I love sons; it would be impossible to list just one who anything funny and witty. I admire the most. The women I know are

10 People The Junto The Women 2021 continued... Q: Librarians and many others in education were traditionally male. How do you think the gender roles in your job, and in education (in general) have changed? A:When I started, there was a female librarian, but there was a man before her. I feel like librarians are always women. I think now that men are starting to be drawn to the field more so than ever before, which I find awesome. I sort of feel like there is this sort of image of librarians that people have had with bookworms, glasses, and hair in a bun. One of my student-teachers, a gentleman I work with, he was a librarian. Another one who filled in for me, he was a librarian. It was surprising to me to see more men in the field, and I actually think it's the opposite with librarians. And even in elementary, the majority of teachers seem to be women. For a while, generationally, things that women could do were like secretary, teacher, and nurse traditionally, if you wanted a career. So, in a high school, I think there are more men. I think it’s more the opposite now as more men are drawn into this field. Everything should be balanced. Featured Security: Jamie Haines Nailah Lockhart // Photography Editor Q: How long have you been working at Q: What’s the best thing you experienced at EAHS? And how did you get this position of EAHS? becoming a security guard? A: It has always been Tur- A: I’ve been a security key Week. The bonfire and guard for over 20 years. the traditional Easton vs P- There was an open up posi- burg game were always an tion at the school and I just enjoyable experience. took it. Favorite Food? Q: Who’s another woman at EAHS you admire? A: Definitely seafood A: She left years ago but Q: What would you tell one of them is DJ Smith. young women who want to She was the head security in be in the security industry? the main office, a very strong lady. I also admire Ms. Carole Lutte, she was the high A: Just get along. You don’t have to be rough school band director. She was hard on her kids and tough, we help each other out, you just and stuck to the rules if her kids did some- have to be able to take it. thing wrong. She is great! Q: If you can have any superpower what Q: Who’s your biggest female inspiration? would it be and why? A: All females inspire me. A: To change the world for the better.

11 People The Junto The Women 2021 Featured Secretary: Tina Santiago

Kellie Painter // Off Leash Editor Mrs. Santiago is by far one of my most fa- home from school. We didn't grow up with vorite people that works at Easton Area High materialistic things and to be honest we never School. She has always been there for me gave it a thought. My parents were older through every up and down. I can always when I was adopted. My father passed away count on her to make me feel better when I'm when I was 11 years old and my mom passed having a rough day. It is away when I was 29 years important to have great sec- old. Later on in life people retaries in the guidance de- asked me if I wanted to ﬁnd partment because most my biological parents, I said people go there when they no because if it weren't for are having a problem. Mrs. the parents who raised me, I Santiago makes sure that wouldn't be where I am to- each and every person that day, a strong independent walks through the door is woman. My husband could kindly welcomed and taken vouch for that for sure!”. I care of to the best of her also asked her who inspires ability. I admire her because her at EAHS, and she said she does her job with grace Mrs. Attisiano, “because she and tries not to show when could be having the worst she is too stressed. When I day ever and still have a asked Mrs. Santiago, who smile on her face.” For she admires she replied women's month Mrs. Santi- with, “it's my mother. My go gave great advice to twin sister and I were both young girls. “No dream is adopted and I wanna say she gave us uncon- too hard to reach and don't let anyone get in ditional love and we knew nothing different. the way of that dream. You are in control of She was a stay at home mom while my dad your own life and nobody else. Always sur- worked outside of the house. The best thing round yourself with positive people because about her being a stay at home mom was, she they are your cheerleaders; negative people was a Foster Mom. Besides adopting my sister bring you down. Continue to believe in your- and I, she adopted 2 other girls (my sisters by self and set high goals so that you are chal- adoption) as well as had 2-3 foster children in lenged, never take the easy way out.” I believe the house at any given time. My sisters and I that Mrs. Santiago could not have put that helped my mom take care of the younger any better. Overall National Women’s Month children and we had so much fun because is a great way to take a step back and appre- they were like real life baby dolls. We helped ciate all the women in your life that truly in- feed them, changed their clothes but most of spires you. all we got to play with them after coming 12 People The Junto The Women 2021 Custodial Covid Crusaders

Julia Vinci // Copy Editor It’s not only female celebrities that break boundaries with every move, but behind-the-scenes heroes too. It is in every situation that our female staff should be acknowledged and appreciated for everything that they do for us. As of 2020, only 38.6% of custodians and building cleaners were women. Even in our school, only two out of the entire custodial unit are female. Even so, this representation is extremely necessary. To see women working in each field in all parts of the world around us demonstrates the never ending potential and flexibility in all of us. Joan Sesee and Olga Licona are both role models and wall-breakers. They are two wonderful women who do so much more for all of the staff and students at EAHS than is often acknowledged. Every time there has been an incident or accident, they have been there to pull everything back together. Not only are they essential in the flow of the building, they are also continuing to work as women in the world, breaking through into every career, no matter how large the ratio. These women should not only be celebrated during women’s month, but all year as well! Next time you’re thinking about causing chaos or see a perfectly sanitary area inside our school community, remember the women who keep order from behind the scenes, ensuring that our school days may go off without a hitch. Especially through COVID, they’ve been diligently working to protect each student and staff member from the virus that has rampaged the planet. They help provide us opportunities to learn in a better way inside the building, without fear of contracting COVID from an unclean space. Where would we be without them? As usual, be kind to yourself and others, and be extra thankful for those that help from behind the scenes every minute of the Females In Film Sienna Walenciak // People Editor For as long as films have been made, there have been females creating them. However, no female directors have ever won Best Director at the Academy Awards until 2010, when Kathryn Bigelow broke the glass ceiling and won the achievement for her film The Hurt Locker. Prior to Bigelow, only four women had ever been nominated for the Oscars’ director honor over the award ceremony’s 92-year history: Lina Wertmüller (1976’s “Seven Beauties”), Jane Campion (1993’s “The Piano”) and Sofia Coppola (2003’s “Lost in Translation”). For Women’s History Month, the Junto team has curated a list of some of the greatest films crafted by female directors to watch and appreciate. Greta Gerwig began her career as an actress in various films and genres, but she’s changed her path to focus on writing and directing her own films. Her directorial debut came in 2017 with the release of Lady Bird, starring Saorise Ronan in the titular role. The film tells the story of teenager Chris- tine McPherson (or Lady Bird, as she likes to be called), a high school senior struggling with a strained relationship with her mother. Lady Bird garnered critical acclaim, primarily for Gerwig’s direction and screenplay, and was considered to be one of the greatest films of 2017. 13 Points Of View The Junto The Women 2021 Continued...

Sienna Walenciak // People Editor Following this impressive debut, Gerwig released her second film in 2019. Little Women, an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel of the same name, also stars Saorise Ronan as Jo March, one of four sisters living in New England following the Civil War as they navigate their transition from childhood into adulthood. Similar to Lady Bird, Little Women re- ceived widespread acclaim and scored an impressive six Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Costume Design. Though COVID-19 delayed the release of many films in 2020, there were enough that hit to keep the popcorn popping. The 2020 release of No- madland follows the life of a woman in her sixties who embarks on a journey through the American west after losing everything in the Great Reces- sion. Though this film is only director Chloe Zhao’s third film, it garnered significant praise, particularly for cinematography and directing. At the 78th Golden Globes, Zhao took home two of the biggest awards of the evening for Best Picture and Best Director, becoming the first Asian recipi- ent for the latter award, and the second woman to ever win. At this year’s Academy Awards, Zhao is nominated for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay for Nomadland, and she is in the process of directing her fourth film Eternals. Another great female-directed film to come out of 2020 is Promising Young Woman. This is director Emerald Fennel’s directorial debut about Cassie Thomas, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, as she seeks to avenge her best friend -- a victim of rape -- by enacting revenge on those who con- tributed to the assault and subsequent cover-up. Mulligan’s performance under the direction of Fennel earned wide praise, with critics and the general public also applauding the film for its criticisms of rape culture. The film deservedly earned nominations at both the Golden Globes and Acad- emy Awards. With the nominations of Zhao and Fennell, 2021 marks the first time that two women have been nominated in the same year for the coveted best director Oscar. Female directed and produced films should be celebrated at all times of the year, but especially during Women’s History Month. Though there are thousands of other female-directed movies that easily could have made our list, the aforementioned movies are a great starting point for discovery and discussion.

14 People The Junto The Women 2021

Featured Administrator: Jeanette Kassis

Julianna LoPiccolo // Off Leash Editor

For our International Women’s Month issue I had the honor of interviewing a woman in the admin- istration at EAHS, and chose our Deputy Prin- cipal, Ms. Kassis! I asked Ms. Kassis a few ques- tions regarding International Women’s Month, and feminism in general over email, and she did not disappoint with her responses. When it comes to female inspirations, she highlighted the teachers who made her realize her passion for making a difference for others, and her mother, who Kassis says gave ‘110% in everything she did, and oftentimes [went] the extra mile when not even necessary’. Her mother was also a master in encouragement, and gave amazing advice--a quote by Theodore Roosevelt, “Nothing worth having comes easy.” I asked Ms. Kassis about her journey to the position she holds as EAHS, and whether or not she feels being a woman affected that in any way. She said it hadn’t, and that “Leadership positions require strong dedication, commitment, and perseverance…if you possess these qualities you earn the respect of your colleagues and gender is not a factor.” However, for those girls who may be going into a ﬁeld that is male dominated, she says, “Take advantage of all opportunities that present themselves and never get complacent. Be the impetus to inspire and motivate others.” She also reminds us of another famous inspirational quote, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” Lastly—the answer I was most excited to recieve—I asked Ms. Kassis her favorite female power ballad. “I Hope You Dance” is a beautiful and emotional early 2000’s number by Lee Ann Womack which I have linked here so that everyone can listen! Thank you so much, Ms. Kassis, for taking the time to share your experience and advice with us, and for everything you do for EAHS!

15 People The Junto The Women 2021 The Women who move us

Isaak Torres // Copy Editor A large part of the community within the Easton Area School District is the transportation department. Speciﬁcally this month, I have had the privilege to write about the fantastic women in the transportation department and what they do for our Red Rover family. Being that bus drivers get to see their students almost everyday a close relationship is formed with the students and drivers. Women within this department at Easton get to create an almost motherly relationship with the students and for kids who may not have a mother at home the impact of a female bus driver is tremendous. Having contacted the head of this department, Ms. Karen Lambert, I also got to discover more about the female bus drivers in our own district. They were asked to write a short statement of how they felt about their job and their impact being a female bus driver, here are some of the responses:

“We know how to work with kids well. (We are more nurturing and empathetic towards their issues. – sometimes our students will conﬁde in a driver – the drivers build trust relationships with the students”

“We are POWERFUL, KIND, RESPONSIBLE, and PATIENT.”

“We know how to work with kids well. (We are more nurturing and EMPATHETIC towards their issues. – sometimes our students will conﬁde in a driver – the drivers build trust relationships with the students.”

“It is EMPOWERING & rewarding for a woman. (We get our CDL & we get to drive a big vehi- cle).”

“We are an example to YOUNG WOMEN that they can do or be anything they want.”

“We teach the children Easton History while driving them to and from school.”

“The students on our buses are our ‘adopted kids,’ we treat them as our own. They are precious cargo we get to transport each and every day.”

16 People The Junto The Women 2021 Continued...

Isaak Torres // Copy Editor

“We get to see the students grow as we drive them. It is rewarding to see how they have grown over the years and now as they become an adult and have children we transport their children. It is very heartwarming.” “It is a REWARDING job.” “We are one big family.” “A few years back the Ski club was stranded by the bus company who took them to their destination. Our Easton drivers went above and beyond and sprang into action. Within a short time, we had enough drivers who volunteered to go pick up the students and bring them home.” “Being a women bus driver is the best job in the world. If you have children you have off the same days and the summers to spend with them. As a mom, I know that I like to “MOTHER” all children. You may be the only positive woman in a child’s life. Sometimes, all they need is a listening ear.” “I became a bus driver for convenience. Having had kids in Cheston elementary school it was the ide- al job. I am still going strong with driving for 25 years and the joy it brings to me when seeing present and past students. I think the biggest joy is when you see your past students and they say do you remember me?” “To be a female Supervisor in Transportation, it is very rewarding. When a person thinks of transportation, it may be thought of it as a responsibility for a male ﬁgure. That is not always the case. I am proof that HARD WORK and DEDICATION pays off.” “As their Supervisor, I am very PROUD of each and every person who works for us. Everyone works hard and goes above and beyond to make sure our students are safe and get to and from school safely.” I believe these stories and statements speak for themselves. The women in busing within the Easton community are an essential and integral part of all of our lives. They build relationships, create happiness, and ultimately, deliver our children safely from one place to another--from their home to their school to their future.

17 People The Junto The Women 2021 The Cafeteria: Feeding kids is what they do Steven McDonald // Copy Editor Keeping us all fed through everything, or at least everyone who eats lunch at the Cafeteria every day, it is easy to forget how much the work our lunch ladies must have every day, in a similar way to how much work a parent might have coming home and making dinner for their kids, but multiplied by a hundred times. Easy to forget as well is that some kids depend on this service to eat everyday, so we at the Junto have decided to talk about them a little bit for women's month. 30 million students eat school lunches nationally, which is on average three ﬁfths of all our students, and for our school with a student count of 2730 that would be 1638 students to serve everyday, and this with 5 different lines of students waiting to get 5 different kinds of food which also need to be prepared. The women working at our school to feed us pull off what is basically a logistical wonder everyday, preparing and serving our lunches. Beyond just the logistics though, these women are currently frontline workers, who are trying to keep us safe, while giving us our lunches, and school wouldn’t be the same for many without lunch. I would like to say thank you to our lunch ladies, despite my current cyber education, as we all should understand how difﬁcult it can be to work at the frontline of the current pandemic, but despite themselves our cafeteria staff have kept working, for us.

18 Places The Junto The Women 2021 2021: What Women still face in other parts of the world Julia Vinci // Copy Editor Women’s rights have progressed albeit slowly. There are female leaders and women in power all over the world, but there are some places where gender equality is still crushed under the weight of a misogynistic stan- dard. It’s important to recognize that, in some places, women are treated as objects which can be owned. Just because our country has moved beyond such things does not mean the entire world has left the “it’s a man’s world” ideology in the past. Today, thanks to US News and World Report, we’ll have a look at the top three least woman-friendly places in the world, and see exactly what women are up against. Saudi Arabia stands in third for the least women-friendly environments ranking. The most notable anti-gender equality factor is the male guardianship system, a commonplace custom in Saudi Arabia. This system treats all women as if they were minors. Any decision they make relies on the permis- sion of a speciﬁc male guardian; Most often their father or their husband. Basically, each woman is owned by a man from birth until death. This vio- lates basic human rights. The quality of life that these women live depends almost entirely on the moral compass of their “guardian.” Coming in at second place for least friendly places for women in the world, is Qatar. Qatar is extremely economically prosperous, and a very technolog- ically advanced country, but its laws have many discriminatory aspects. “Dis- criminatory laws affect women in a variety of ways... women seeking a divorce have far less ability to appear in court and receive a fair settlement. Custody, inheritance and free- dom of movement laws also drastically favor men.” - A quote from borgen- magazine.com, which in summary means the court systems of Qatar favor the male citizens by a landslide. Though Qatar is taking steps towards equality, it’s been a slow process. Finally, number one on our super fun list of the worst places in the world to provide gender equality is the United Arab Emirates. “While some women are able to exercise key freedoms in the UAE, this is not the case for all. Discrimination, in- cluding male guardianship, remains ﬁrmly rooted in law and reinforces and facilitates do- mestic violence carried out by families and husbands.” - a quote by Rothna Begum, on HRW.org. While the world is moving forwards in its venture towards gender equality, we cannot truly say we have corrected the imbalance until rights are given to EVERYONE. The US’s progress towards gender equality is something to be extremely proud of and grateful for, but it is also a cause to keep going. To keep push- ing forward. Happy Women’s History Month, and as always, be kind to yourself and others, and be safe.

19 The Junto The Women 2021 hits & misses

National Park Service celebrates Women’s History Month.

Library of Congress releases “Rosa Parks: In Her Own Words” exhibition.

Meghan Markle spoke out about her experiences with the royal family during an Oprah interview.

The Grammy’s awarded Beyonce, Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, SZA, Billie Eilish, and more female artists for their top hits!

Still have yet to have a female president.

Today there is still a wage gap between genders. In 2021, women earn 82 cents for every dollar earned 1968 by men. 2021

The Junto has a podcast! This month hosts, Kellie and Julianna, talk with senior places editor, Mallika Pal, to ﬁnd out her plans after high school! They will also be releasing an episode reviewing their favorite book series. You can listen to new episodes now by clicking the link featured on the Easton Area High School home- page, as well as Spotify, Anchor, Google Podcasts, and more.

20 People The Junto The Women 2021 The Staff of the Junto

Advisor - Jeannine N Capecci Editor-in-Chief - Alania Mariano Points of View - Branden Cunard Places - Mallika Pal People - Sienna Walenciak Photography - Nailah Lockhart

Copy Editors Colette Potter Gabriella Feltmann Isaak Torres Rachel Arzoumanian Steven McDonald Julia Vinci

Off Leash Editors Kellie Painter Julianna LoPiccolo

21 Thank you to all of the amazing women of eahs for everything you do! Margaret Bickel Rebecca Smith Anastasia Attisano Calandra, Katherine Hunsicker, Michele Petitti, Teresa Jane Biechy Joy Transue JoAnn Birdsong Capecci, Jeannine Jacobs, Cynthia Powell, Kristine Kylie Bisram Christine Wisner Roseanne Good Carmichael, Carol Jayant, Preethy Roberts, Trisha Denise Bowers Karen Lambert Tara Negron Carranza, Marilena Keegan, Kelly Rose, Karen Donna Briggs Tamarra Ellis Colleen Geiger Catullo, Lisa Keretz, Judy Sciortino, Kimberly Megan Burwell Victoria Malik Penny Myers Charnley, Cristen Kish, Iris Schaffer, Pam Shawn Coco Ackerman, Dawn Kim Tattoli Chaves, Neysa Klein, Beverly Scheetz, Rebecca Nicole Coley Robin Green-Catalano JoMarie Rinaldi Chen, Beth Koch, Judith Schoepflin, Erin Melissa Donnelly Maria (Christina) Alar- Charissa Rivera Clark, Elizabeth Koch, Kelly Schummer, Kristin con Christine Dotts Linda Melnick Clements, Kristi Koser, Heather Selser, Tonya Kristine Caffrey-Star- ling Doris Duryea Tina Santiago Culpepper-Yablonsky, Kralik, Leann Sheaffer, Emily Kelly Castellucci Mallie Ana Escobar Debra Smith Lane, Kathleen Siu, Kim Gale Elliott Dailey, Elizabeth Virginia Fimiano Tiffany Turner Lanier, Melanie Smith, Grace Uzma Ahmed Daoud, Virginia Melissa Franco Christine Cappello Lee, Christina Smith, Nancy Denise Howey Day, Jashanae Tracy Gebhart Nancy Baker Lees, Michelle Smith-Banos, Kayla Jean Embardino Dickey, Kelsey Sandra Hughes Cherie Friedman Leibensperger, Michele Soffera, Debra Amy Lopez Dinsmore, Cara Teresa Jenkins Maria Giordano Lira, Migdalia Steskal, Erin Noreen McNamara Doerr, Karen Helen Jones Jovanna Diaz Lukachek, Donna Stroble, Andrea Penelope Moore-Fennell Dorrler, Mary Coralee Kellow Linda Hilbert Malachowski, Lisa Suttie, Jocelyn Marcia Mowad Duran, Maria Doreen Kinsella Lyn Kast Manning, Michelle Sweitzer, Emily Barbara Nicholas Eck, Casey Kimberly Lance Megan Keiper Mantz, Jessica Symia, Elise Kathy Ocampo Eckley, Kellie Linda Leichliter Leslie Kennedy Marquardt, Loren Thornton, Megan Lisa Hamn Egberts, Carly Lisa Marino Darlene Mattina Mason, Mindy Tokarczyk, Jan Elizabeth Ponce Feldstein, Karla Lori Moskella Cynthia Rau Mayrosh, Blakely Tutko, Melinda Marie (Nikki) Richards Flood, Lisa Diane Mullen Sobeida Reyes McFarland, Kristina Vacaro, Rebecca Stacy Roberts Folcher, Bethann Debra Mutchler Christie Schlough Melton, Amber Varela, Bernadette Diana Lett Fontno, Amy Denise Nelson Rebecca Smith Merli, Rachel Volturo, Sarah Amy Smith Gallagher, Rosemary Sue Nevel Angela Vacaro Mihalko, Michelle Walters, Meredith Brenda Vanhorn Gardner, Gretchen Yolanda Nieves Kassis Jeanette Mohap, Shannon Wascura, Sarah Irene Vogel Gaumer, Heather Marci Oliver Jaime Arnts Morgans, Tanya Welsh, Amanda Tammy Long Genni-Tozzi, Rita Gertrude Orsini Candice Davis Motsavage, Eleanor Williamson, Crystale Paula Hutt Gori, Amanda Elizabeth Owens Ackerman, Dawn Murray, Megan Woodland, Melissa Karen Pastula Gray, Jennifer Allyson Palinkas Amadore, Dennis Nemeth, Wendy Young, Suzanne Ann Lear Hammerstone, Morgan Alida Perez Arcadipane, Amber-Jean Oakes, Tonia Zander, Janice Susanne Fehr Handelong, Jenny Cynthia Poulson Barone, Tara Orlena, Lisette Zelasko, Nicole Olga Licona Halvorsen, Elizabeth Karen Reeser Blair, Catherine Oweis, Raina Zimmerman, Allison Joan Seese Hibell, Jamie Alan Nancy Rowlands Borchardt, Victoria Penn, Tamika Jamie Haines Hudak, Kristen Stephanie Semmel Brett, Deborah Pels, Lea Ann *name subject to current information Adrienne Muniz Hughes, Susan Cynthia Smith Peters, Rachel Roberta Cappellano Melanie Smith 22