aw rint June 2016 Special Issue Volume 15, Issue 4 Special Issue: The Awareness Project

Instead of focusing on everyday Payton news for this issue, Paw Print staff explored serious challenges that they believe our school and school system, and as a whole, face now. Read about a different issue, as chosen by the staff, on each page.

Editorial Chicago’s Looming Storm: by Editor Matthew Mata

Chicagoans are no stranger to severe weather systems sweeping across the city. However, in recent years, and frankly, for decades, the Chicago Public School system continues to be plagued by scandals, financial crisis, and heavy criticism Since 2000, the Chicago Board of Education has had high turnover rates of their Chief Executive Officer – Paul Vallas, Arne Duncan, Ron Huberman, Terry Mazany, Jean-Claude Brizard, Barbara Byrd-Bennett, , and Forrest Claypool, thus averaging a new “face” of the Chicago Public School system every two-years. While “forever” critics of the May- oral- picked CEO and school board can easily cast blame on these high turnovers, it is crucial to recognize and to critique the accountability exemplified in the school system. The two entities that are primary stakeholders in Chicago’s education system are the Chicago Teachers Union, which has over 20,000 teachers and paraprofessionals working within the school system, and Chicago Public Schools, who bear the responsibility of properly providing a quality education to over 400,000 Chicago children. With both organizations nearing a year of negations for a new teacher contract, it is imperative that both keep laser focus with the best intentions and best interest of the children in CPS -- and when both do that it is near impossible for the education system to fail. However, a vital mishap that has been causing such strain on the relationship and ability to collectively advocate against disruptive factions are divisive rhetoric coming from an ab- sence of accountability and lack of transparency by stakeholders at times. The lack of education is the crux of so many societal problems, so it is crucial that the image of Chicago Public Schools with communities, parents, students, and critics is elevated. With these three non-financial steps, the stigma surrounding the practices of the Chicago Board of Education would be less scrutinized.

1) Grant the honorary student board member the right to vote. While it is a privilege to attend and to have the ability to offer insight to the board, the Board of Education is already given student testimonials at their monthly board meetings. Similarly to the state board of education, this would allow the Chicago Board of Ed to retain an odd vote count, and even if this causes there not to be a consensus at times, it only sheds light on the fact that there may be an issue with the referendum.

2) Evaluate Chicago Board of Ed members. Due to teachers being evaluated as frequently as quarterly, it is only fair that the Board Members that regulate such evaluations are upheld to similar standards. Their evaluation must be based on school and student engagement apart from CPS pre-coordinated events. Board members should be eager to further gain insight about student needs and what makes schools a success or what programs (such as contracts with private providers) are simply not up to par. And this is gained through interactions with students and school environments through spontaneous visits. While yes, board members are volunteering their time, the referendum and decisions they are making must be chal- lenged through experience and not just raw data.

3) Actively recruit board members who reflect the racial populations within our schools. While a Latino or African American board member cannot speak on behalf of or for the racial group within CPS, they can certainly add input and have an understanding of particular learning curves or services that are commonly needed within certain racial groups. While the Asian population in CPS is not the majority, they must still be adequately and respectfully represented in the decision-making process. 2 HEALTH PAW PRINT June 2016 HEALTH What’s in my food?: Traversing Aramark’s mysterious ingredient lists for CPS lunches

BY IZZI EINHORN AND CATHERINE CONLEY

Walter Payton College Why won’t Aramark disclose the Sun Times, who asked to re- Preparatory High School the ingredients of school lunches? main anonymous, about his ex- This is the question we set out to perience in trying to obtain this 1034 North Wells Street answer when we found the only information; he described a long- Chicago, IL 60610 listed ingredients for lunchroom winded process of bureaucratic red phone: (773) 534-0034 chicken nuggets are “chicken nug- tape and closed doors. The reporter fax: (773) 534-0035 gets.” This proved to open a lot explained that he filed a Freedom www.wpcp.org more doors than we thought. of Information Act, which did not paytonpawprint.com In 2010, President Obama prove helpful because Aramark is @PaytonNews passed the “Healthy Hunger-Free a private company and, thus, does Kids Act.” This act set federal not have to comply with such acts. Principal: guidelines on school lunches and Secondly, we spent a great deal Tim Devine is widely known, as it was heav- of time searching for nutritional Assistant Principal: ily supported by Michelle Obama. information for school lunches David Adamji This is the reason cookies are no that we thought was non-existent, longer sold during Payton’s lunch but proved to be accessible if one EDITORS-IN-CHIEF periods (something that, sadly, knows where to look. In other only this year’s seniors experi- words, despite being limited and Paul Hayes enced), and the reason food can- difficult to find, the nutritional Julia Huebner not be sold for fundraisers during breakdown of CPS’s cafeteria food Matthew Mata school hours. is publically available online. Nadiyah Pate Despite this strict set of rules, Lastly, there doesn’t seem to be it is extremely difficult to find a clear reason for the lack of open- LAYOUT EDITORS nutritional information on school ness from Aramark. While media Vivian Gasca lunches. Aramark, CPS’s school outlets will be denied ingredient Camille Grandjean lunch provider, does not list in- information if they attempt to con- Hannah Lowenthal gredients on any packaging or tact Aramark or CPS, individu- Quinn Mankowski Do you know what you are eating? website, and while calories and fat als, such as parents and students, Photo by Catherine Conley content can be found through links are supplied with this information PHOTO EDITOR on some online menus, it seems upon request. It appears there really isn’t an school lunches almost every day. Annie Y. Jiang as if these facts are hidden in the We reached out to a CPS nu- answer at this point. While not having a list of ingre- most discreet places. Why? tritionist that works in conjunc- In the end, we were able to get dients for each product, what we SECTION EDITORS We uncovered a few notable tion with Aramark who willingly the nutritional information that we consume doesn’t deter me from Distribution and Exchange: discoveries throughout the search told us the ingredients for speci- asked for. All we had to do was eating my favorite chicken sand- Matthew Mata, Paul Hayes for the reasoning behind the miss- fied dishes, but could not provide email in each food item that we wich or cheese pizza, but as con- ing ingredient lists. First off, we a comprehensive list for all CPS wanted ingredients for. sumers and students we have the Politics: Julia Huebner found that we weren’t the first to meals. That means every roll, every right to know what we are eating. Sports: Nadiyah Pate investigate this topic. Mainstream So if Aramark records the in- hamburger patty, and every side While by no means are we ad- media outlets, such as the Sun gredients used for the CPS dishes, dish needs to be explicitly request- vocating the boycott of Aramark PAW PRINT STAFF Times, have written detailed arti- and the dishes truly are meeting all ed. This system is not very effi- or the bombarding of CPS with William Baker cles surrounding the great lengths federal health standards, what is cient, and it discourages student concerned emails, we are advo- Bison Carcelli they went to to obtain nutritional stopping them from releasing the curiosity in exactly what is in the cating for the increased transpar- Allison Cho information from CPS. We spoke information in a public, accessible food one eats. ency of Aramark in respect to their Catherine Conley on the phone with a reporter from manner? As seniors at Payton, we eat lunchroom ingredient lists. Annabel Doerr Isabel Einhorn Kila Goodwin Juliana Iturralde Elena Johnston Jack Knabe Youth Wellness Team initiated at Payton BY BEN SMITH Alexander Lefauve Staff Writer Claire Luning Earlier this year, several stu- able to come together and share Quinn Mankowski dents founded Youth Wellness their work with students. Grace McDermott Team at Payton, which is a pro- The founders realized that so Thomas McKeon gram sponsored by Mikva Chal- many clubs at Payton were over- Luis Palacios lenge, a local organization that looked by students and the great Richard Piper helps students become civically work that they were doing should Julia Porter engaged in their community. be shared, not overshadowed. Tristan Rinholm The founders of the Payton Youth Wellness Team offers in- Cole Robbins chapter pursued the idea when creased accessibility to these Ben Smith they engaged in Mikva Chal- groups and the information that Prince Roy Stephenson lenge’s Youth Congress. they share with the community, Joe Walsh The students learned about the according to the founders, Emilio Abigail Wolfe program and wanted to bring posi- Araujo ‘16 and Camila Giraldo tive results to their own schools ‘16. FACULTY ADVISOR regarding the health and wellness In order to further their efforts, Michelle Mowery of their students. the Payton chapter applied for a [email protected] They discussed with Ms. Ber- grant and received 600 dollars that How healthy is the National School Lunch Program? toni how they could help with the they are currently putting towards Screenshot of cps.edu/About_CPS/Departments/Pages/ curriculum and other health-relat- website development to spread FoodServices.aspx ed issues within Payton. the word about their team and the Instead of initiating a singu- clubs within Payton that they are at Payton and in the community. Anyone with questions or in- lar project on their own that only trying to support. They are especially looking for formation that they want to share some students would see, Youth Youth Wellness Team is open underclassmen who are willing to can do so by sending an email to Wellness Team offers a platform to anyone who is interested in carry on the team due to the large youthwellnessteam.wpcp@gmail. for other groups and clubs to be improving health-related issues number of upperclass members. com. PAW PRINT June 2016 POLITICS 3 POLITICS Editorial: The age of misinformation, political discourse on social media and the elections By TRISTEN RINHOLM, JOE WALSH AND THOMAS MCKEON Staff Writers This election cycle has been formed graphics and posts that go paper, includes statistics clearly in such an important election cy- munity includes countless people one of the most chaotic and widely viral despite not being verified. intended as an attack on the Black cle. who are informed and passionate debated in the history of our na- These posts only distract people Lives Matter movement and meant At Payton, there is a limited about current events. These people tion, which is commonly attrib- from the real conversation and en- to portray Black people as mur- amount of change that we can could have platforms in seminars, uted to the spread of social media rage certain groups. derers, was retweeted over 4,000 create in this issue. There are too enrichments, in the Paw Print, and as a way to communicate. For example, Donald Trump times. many people and too many posts on the broadcast to spread true and While political discourse is tweeted a graphic about crime sta- However, it’s likely that many to go through and fact check all of meaningful information. clearly important for social prog- tistics that has since been shown to of the people who saw the original them. However, we can and should With a commitment to putting ress, social media has enabled be completely incorrect. However, graphic missed a follow-up post prevent this uninformed discus- out meaningful and correct infor- uninformed discourse that only this after-the-fact fact-checking showing that it was incorrect. All sion in our own community. mation on important issues, our serves to cause rifts between op- doesn’t do much to diminish the this graphic did was strengthen That is possible by taking a school could do its part to improve posing sides, preventing any effects of the post. people’s racist beliefs and distract couple of simple and important the quality of political discussion. meaningful discussion. The graphic, too inappropriate people from the important policy steps. It gives credence to misin- to include in a high school news- debates that need to be occurring We are lucky that our com- Editorial: The real cost Personal Essay: Success of group of an averted CPS crisis not determined by their progress By JULIA HUEBNER By WILL BAKER Editor-in-Chief Staff Writer In recent years, Payton and daily basis,” said another teacher. PPOC and African American the African American community. sion of the African American iden- all other Chicago Public Schools “I feel like, at some point, a lot of Club were designed as safe spaces However miniscule and micro tity, there must be a mechanism have teetered on the brink of se- teachers are going to hit a breaking for African Americans and other it may be, sometimes that is all or process set in place to counter vere teacher layoffs, devastating point and move out to the suburbs races to share the grievances and that is needed to set into motion a situations where dissension is im- budget cuts, and disruptive strikes … I can only do this for so long tribulations caused by whomever chain reaction of events in the Af- minent. -- pawns in a three-way tug-of- … [and would consider leaving] their oppressors may be. rican American community. As a progressive and increas- war between CPS, the Chicago probably sooner rather than later,” While these clubs are safe I often pondered, is it because ingly expanding community, we Teachers Union, and politicians in they said. A third teacher said that spaces for minorities to engage in of assimilation into a culture that expect to come in contact with Springfield. they would “high-tail it and run” both general and more personal was not designed for us that our varying viewpoints on different Interestingly, some fix seems to and “would actively be looking for self-realization processes, it is also perspectives sometimes shroud subjects, but we must remember materialize at the eleventh hour: a job somewhere else” if they were a space where a person and their our judgement? that the success of a group is not be it the State’s discovery of mil- “new to the system.” oppressor can hold a civilized and Or is it the strong and solidified determined by their progress, rath- lions of dollars to assuage the $1.1 For those families new to the meaningful conversation pertain- opinions African Americans often er it is determined by the longevity billion budget shortfall for the system, it’s almost a no-brainer ing to wrongdoings committed. hold that restrict them from con- of their works and the immortal- 2015-16 school year or the CTU’s that eighth graders who get into These clubs were designed to forming to other ideas? ization of their story. quiet decision on May 4 to post- Payton -- a free, nationally ac- unify and to be inclusive of all Recently, African American stu- How can we effectively make pone/cancel their threat of a June claimed, high school education races at Payton, so that in the pro- dents experienced another griev- change and if we can not even in- strike after their one-day strike on -- simply go. However, increasing cess of grieving and self-realizing, ance to their community. While to duce change within ourselves? April 1, 2016. uncertainty has made some fami- the shared experiences of some some it has been irrelevant to the As a potential solution to a di- Of course, such fixes are by no lies opt for private school over and the shared empathy of many functions of their everyday lives, vided community, I propose an means magical or easy to come by: Payton. For Mrs. Lynn Litwin, her would create a more solidified Af- others have taken this grievance elected African American council to avert crises of this magnitude, a eighth grade daughter, and the rest rican American community and upon themselves, and it has caused be set up -- one that will represent lot of smart people put their heads of her family, turning down Pay- also create a more wholesome ex- a “rift” within the rebuilding and the African American community (and bank accounts) together to ton was “was one of the toughest perience for African Americans at solidifying community of African at Payton when we experience our save our schools from another decisions we’ve had to make.” The Payton. Americans at Payton. grievances and also be completely round of eminent doom. greatest factor in their decision In the short months PPOC has The response to this situation representative of the varying ide- But that’s exactly the problem: was “the uncertainty with CPS and been around, I have seen a change has already dictated the path it will ologies found within the commu- instead of focusing solely on stu- what’s going to unfold because of focus in the minds and hearts take, but my real question is, who nity. dent learning, administrators and everything is so undefined right of African American students at will set aside their pride to bring This council will also be in teachers are forced to deal with now.” Payton. together both parties and have a charge regulating dissension in the bureaucratic crisis after crisis af- Mrs. Nicky Creamer, her eighth While still being the minority at “civilized and meaningful” con- community and upholding peace ter crisis. And while it’s great that grade daughter and family also Payton, our mindsets have become versation about the recent griev- and tranquility. doomsday headlines are avoided, said “no” to Payton, opting instead those of the majority: unapologetic ance that was caused against us? If African American students at the M.O. of “crying wolf” has left for private school. Although Pay- and happy. We must remember while we Payton wish to effectively mobi- and will continue to leave an ugly ton “was almost too good to be Much progress has been made all have our opinions, the griev- lize, they must first organize, then wound on CPS. true,” said Creamer, “the budget to reinforce the African American ance was caused by another per- can begin the process of reform First, the costs for teachers. crisis was our number one reason identity at Payton, from the joined son, “indirectly.” While I hold no within Payton. Insecurity and uncertainty -- of for not sending her there.” Addi- hands and singing of the song stance in this topic, completely un- This African American council teacher’s pensions, strike dates, tionally, Mrs. Creamer’s daugh- “Lift every’ voice and sing” to the biased, it has been very interesting will be in charge of spearheading class sizes, and jobs themselves ter has diabetes. For their family, exposing of those who indirectly to me to see how varying identities awareness activities exposing var- -- drains morale for even the “having a nurse at the school or or directly belittle our experience and viewpoints have allowed an ious groups to African American best teachers. “Every time we go someone available at the school at Walter Payton College Prep, but entire party to come to the brink of culture and history while also rein- through a round of cuts or threat- during a crisis situation was im- there always seems to be some- separating. forcing and defending our identity. ened cuts, even if they don’t actu- portant.” Payton does not have a thing that causes dissension within In order to secure the progres- ally transpire, it makes really good full-time nurse. teachers question whether this is These budget-based rejections the place that wants them or not. “should say something rather It’s something that distracts us dramatic to Central Office and CPS crisis continued from left columns from the work that we really like Springfield: that … people are doing,” said one anonymous Pay- choosing to not come to ... one of exploring other educational op- who are actively thinking … as to of my day is spent on non-Payton- ton teacher. the top high schools in the United tions. “I know of five principals whether or not CPS is a short-term, specific, non-teaching and learn- “It’s hard not to consider leav- States that is free,” said Payton specifically … who are leaving medium-term, or long-term locale ing items on average. This time of ing when you feel like you work Principal Tim Devine. because of the chaos that is go- for their profession. It’s sad,” said the year, it gets to about 70%.” for a system that doesn’t respect Joining prospective students ing on and how it has become so Devine. the work that you’re doing on a and teachers, many principals are wearisome. I know of many others He estimates that “ 30 to 50% 4 MENTAL HEALTH PAW PRINT June 2016 MENTAL HEALTH WP Psychologist on Mental Health Awareness By ALLISON CHO, ANNIE JIANG, CLAIRE LUNING, GRACE MCDERMOTT Staff Writers Paw Print interviewed Ms. to learn in the classroom environ- Students. We also have others that starting to recognize that the first fortable talking to their counsel- Leah Ruzich, Payton’s school ment. If you are having any social teachers run: things like yoga or step is just saying that “it exists, ors regarding personal issues. psychologist, regarding mental or emotional difficulties that are meditation. There are things that now how can we address it and LR: “I’ve talked to students about health awareness and wellness preventing you from concentrat- we try to embed within the cur- help you guys remove it,” which is needing help in school and who in the Payton community. ing in the classroom or something riculum and embed into your time, not something that if you were here would they go to. And a lot of that is going on, we want to make so it’s not some separate thing that five years ago when i worked here. students say that they would go Paw Print: Can you tell us about sure that you are able to sit in a you’re being pulled out for. Our We’re discussing it with teach- to their friends first, which is why what your position description is classroom and learn as best as pos- goal is really to have everyone in ers and we’re trying to implement we want you guys to know what and responsibilities are in rela- sible. So it’s a little different from the school not only educated about curriculum into enrichments and happens if a friend comes up to tionship to the students? a clinical psychologist who you mental health, but also address- advisories to really get you guys to you and says things that concern Leah Ruzich: “My name is Leah might see on a regular basis and ing their own mental health. And understand that mental health is as you. That’s okay; that’s normal Ruzich, and I’m the school psy- your goals are more, ‘we’re going I think we’ve been making head- important as your physical health. adolescent development thing, to chologist. I’m here two and a half to address your symptoms of de- way. I think the hardest thing now And in the same way that you want to go to your friends first.But days a week, so I’m only here pression.’ Our goal is to have you that we’re starting to do is address- guys wouldn’t be ashamed to tell if something very serious is go- part-time. First and foremost, my in the classroom as functional as ing the stigma of mental health, somebody ‘Oh I was out sick for ing on, then we want you guys to duties are to provide services to possible.” because we’re realizing that it’s a couple of days because I had a know that there’s plenty of adults our students that have IEP - those hard to say “go get help” before sore throat and went to the doctor,’ within the building [that can help are students who have any special PP: What does Payton do to pro- we address that first thing.” we want you guys to feel comfort- you]. Again, that’s a barrier we’re education services - which leaves mote mental health? able walking into my office and working to break. There’s this any residual time in my schedule LR: “It’s mental health awareness PP: Several students in the sur- saying ‘Hey, I need to talk about whole stigma thing we’re trying to try to address the vast social month, as you guys know. We were vey said that the school was something.’” to address; just like you would go needs with the general population. really fortunate to have the enrich- attempting to provide mental to a doctor if you’re feeling sick, As much as I try, I don’t always ment period; it was something that health awareness or help, but at PP: Aside from the teachers, it’s okay to go to your counselor have time to address all those was added around my third year the same time being in the Pay- 80% of the school doesn’t know to talk about social or emotional needs because my first job to do [2014]. It’s been really helpful be- ton environment is sort of polar where to find the school psychol- things; it’s okay to talk to any of is to address those students’ [with cause the social worker and I will opposite from that attempt. ogist or social worker. your teachers who can help you IEP] needs. But I am involved in both run small groups during that LR: “That kind of goes back to LR: “I’m surprised that 20% know find somebody [for help].” a lot of things around the school, time or open groups that any stu- what I was saying before about where to find me!” as well as working with teachers. dents can attend, such as Mental the stigma of mental health, and Our goal is to have students ready Health Awareness, or Stressed Out I think that as a staff we’re really PP: Fifty percent don’t feel com-

What to do if you’re worried about your mental well-being

Talk to someone (friends, family, teach- ers, anyone you feel comfortable with). You’re not alone in how you feel, and there is no reason to be.

Make time to take care of yourself - your mental well-being is more important than your academics, and just as impor- tant as your physical well-being.

Seek professional or medical help if you Talk to your advisor, feel that you can no longer manage your teachers, emotions. or administration.

Contact the social worker: Contact your counselor in Allison Capeless at room 109 or the library [email protected] PAW PRINT June 2016 MENTAL HEALTH 5 Editorial: Why mental health Bowles discusses at Payton is an oxymoron counselors’ role in By CLAIRE LUNING AND GRACE MCDERMOTT Staff Writers May was Mental Health Awareness month, but this has certainly not been a mental health awareness mental health year. The “pressure-cooker” environment at Payton has long compelled students to cram APs into their By ALLISON CHO, ANNIE JIANG, CLAIRE LUNING, schedules, ignoring warnings from previous victims of impossible schedules that will, in our goal-driven AND GRACE MCDERMOTT minds, appear sterling on our college applications. The Payton atmosphere, so unique in the outstand- Staff Writers ing amount of success it demands from its students, unfortunately lacks in the social-emotional support Mr. Casey Bowles is one of ber of things come to mind. Num- required for these circumstances. five counselors at WPCP. This ber one, I do think that as counsel- Despite attempts to educate students about mental health awareness through the introduction of en- interview focused on the role of ors we genuinely want to create a richments, advisory lessons, and weekly school-wide emails, the mindset of both students and faculty the counseling deparment in the safe space here for students to talk that school comes before all combats these efforts involuntarily. school, specifically in terms of to folks about whatever the issue In the mental health awareness survey that the Paw Print staff sent to the entire student body, some promoting mental health. might be. I think it can be chal- of the results of which are published here, students’ anonymous responses to the question: “Do you feel lenging because you spend most like the school provides information and other resources on coping with stress, depression, anxiety, etc?” Paw Print: What is the counsel- of your time here at Payton in the represent the opinion that the school’s environment is paradoxical to the efforts of the faculty and admin- ing department’s responsibility classroom. So that gives you a in terms of mental health aware- chance to really build, with some istration to promote mental health. ness and mental health at Pay- teachers, some good rapport. You One present concern expressed by an anonymous tenth grade student addressed this contradiction ton? are seeing your teachers that year between what the staff tells students and what they actually carry out: “They definitely provide informa- every other day. I also think, but tion; it’s not very effective. Payton has a culture of competition that builds stress and anxiety and that Casey Bowles: “I think that our I could be wrong, that as students needs to be dealt with. The overwhelming expectations placed on teens need to be dealt with.” responsibility is two-fold: number get older then they start to meet However, the faculty is not to blame for this issue – at least, not completely. The competitiveness one, to be proactive, and num- with their counselor a bit more that comes with placing 900 of the most intelligent and hardworking teens in the state of into ber two, to be reactive. Proactive about college stuff. I think that one school is to be expected, as many students grow used to being at the top of their class in elementary in terms of helping students and rapport is built at that point in time. school. Whether intrinsic or expressed outwardly, the competition between students to gain better grades the Payton community in gen- But I think that’s just because we or test scores increases the stress and pressure placed on students. eral, which includes parents and met and talked. Perhaps if we were Despite this, it is the responsibility of the faculty not to foster this stressful environment. It is unrea- teachers and such, to be aware of to share a little bit more of who sonable to demand that students participate in sports or other extracurriculars, volunteer in their com- anything that could be concerning we are as people too, maybe that munity, and complete the extensive amount of homework assigned in many classes. For Payton students, involving mental health for a par- helps to break the ice a little bit. I the school day doesn’t end when they go home. Some have to drop out of extracurriculars that they enjoy ticular student, or for issues that don’t think it means we share our in order to make more time for homework, in turn making time for sleep, a rare commodity among many could be happening in the school three-hour story of who we are as teens at Payton. community. Hopefully, if we can people, but maybe we do a little bit While recent efforts to promote mental health awareness and and wellness have been made visible, be proactive with that, we can more of that.” many occur outside the classroom. These efforts, such as Principal Devine’s policy that requires that no minimize the stuff that we have homework be assigned during breaks, are sometimes ignored by teachers, causing the attempts at pro- to react to later on. Then we are PP: What does the counsel- moting mental health wellness to be futile. called to react as well if a student ing department specifically do is in crisis. So the hope is that stu- to promote mental health and One senior wrote in response to the previously stated question in the survey: “Their methods [of dents will feel comfortable enough awareness? providing information and resources on mental health] are unrealistic for an environment like Payton.” coming to their counselor or hav- A junior agreed with this point of view, saying, “The information is scarce and not taken as seriously ing someone bring them to their CB:“Number one, we have a by the students as it should be. Mental health should be emphasized more by teachers.” counselor, be it another student couple different programs. We The high pressure and competitive nature at Payton are difficult to neutralize, and the stressful envi- or another adult here on campus. have the ADAP program that we ronment can lead to more serious mental health issues, as well as heightening pre-existing mental health And then we help figure out what promote through the freshman conditions, making the school setting more harmful. are the students needs at that point health class, which is Adolescent While recent efforts made by the counseling and social services departments have been recognized, in time, which could range from Depression and Anxiety Program. in terms of mental health awareness and promotion, there has been, in the poignant words of a Payton just being stressed out and anx- The second thing we do, we attend sophomore, “not enough.” ious about something and maybe conferences for professional de- we could help them calm down, velopment to stay abreast of what to something much more severe is happening within the field of What to do if you’re worried which could involve harm to self, counseling and mental health. The harm to others, and in that case we third thing we do is we stay up to react in a very prescriptive way to date on different crisis responses about the mental well-being of be supporting the students the best that we will have and then work we can.” with different community agen- cies within both partners within someone close to you PP: Over 50% of students don’t the school like the social worker, feel comfortable coming to their the psychologist, the administra- counselor with personal non-ac- tion and then we’ll also refer out ademic issues. What changes do to different agencies outside of the A.C.T. you think could be made so that school. Where if a student is com- students would feel more com- ing in and it looks like we have a fortable talking to their counsel- concern about them that’s going Acknowledge: be aware of their mental health issues or about personal issues and not to be longer term than just ‘I’m just about classes and college? having a bad day,’ then let’s see if we can work with the parent and Care: show compassion for them CB: “Try to see them more of- the student to be able to identify ten. It makes it tough when the what are some resources for them caseload is the size that it is. My to have ongoing support. Because Tell: assist or accompany them in talking to a counselor or someone hope would be that when you are a student wouldn’t actually be meeting with the counselor is that coming to us for therapy during else who may be able to help. you would feel like whatever your their lunch period once a week for concern is - it could be anywhere thirty weeks, but that’s something from paying for college to stress we could help them identify those Do not be afraid to ask them direct questions about their mental well- or anxiety to something that is go- resources if that is something that ing on with family life - I know a would be beneficial to them.” being and safety. (i.e., “Do you think you’re going to hurt yourself?”; lot of students deal with issues and “Have you thought about committing suicide?”) challenges when it comes to fam- COUNSELORS ARE ily life maybe divorce or separa- tion - that you feel like whatever LOCATED IN ROOM Seek professional or medical help if you believe your friend is im- the issue is that you are bringing in 109 NEAR THE to your counselor right then is the LUNCHROOM AND mediately endangering themselves or others. most important issue right then in that moment. I would say a num- IN THE LIBRARY. 6 STRESS PAW PRINT June 2016 STRESS RELIEF Tips & tricks to a Stress on your body and mind By CAMILLE GRANDJEAN AND VIVIAN GASCA healthy lifestyle Staff Writers By COLE ROBBINS AND QUINN MANKOWSKI Staff Writers As students at Payton, we all Establishing a consistent rou- know that having a healthy life- tine for homework and figuring style is no easy feat in the competi- out other small tactics to cope with tive academic environment that we your workload on a daily or week- live in. While completely trans- ly basis could be the key to a less forming your life overnight is al- stressful life. most impossible, anyone can take If you have a huge amount to small steps to become a healthier do in the upcoming weeks, write and happier person and ultimately down exactly what’s assigned and living a more positive life. schedule out your time in order to These easy tips can help to spread out the work. improve how you think and feel, While working, find a space even in simple ways. where you can be comfortable 1. Get more sleep. While you and focused, without being dis- probably hear this every day, tracted by loud noises or other dis- the amount of sleep you get can turbances, including temptations change so much about your physi- like phones, video games, books, cal and mental health. According or beds. Being efficient when get- to the National Sleep Foundation, ting your work done can help you Stress play a major role in the daily health of teenagers. “not getting enough sleep or hav- get more sleep, have more time to Data from USA Today and illustrated by Camille Grandjean ing sleep difficulties can limit your exercise, have time to spend with ability to learn, listen, concentrate family or friends, or just relax and Twenty-four hours in a day, to stay on top of their work, focus This reigns true for Caroline and solve problems.” unwind. seven and a half of those hours in class, and even remember the Bernet ‘17 who said, “When I am Getting even an hour more sleep Working efficiently on all of spent at school, two hours spent material they are learning. going through a really rough week than you usually would can benefit your classwork can help you to on extra-curriculars, one to two Students at Payton are extreme- at Payton, whether it be the week you in many aspects of your day- manage your time and control hours spent commuting, twelve ly susceptible to stress because of before finals or I just have a ton of to-day life, including academics, your stress, making your lifestyle and a half hours left - and sleep is the demanding and difficult work- projects due, all I can think about sports, and personal relationships. much healthier and happier. necessary. load and other outside pressures: those deadlines looming around When you’re ready to sleep, make 4. Eat healthy. Eating healthy Today, American teenagers are “For me, stress creates a vicious my head and it’s so awful.” an effort to turn off all electronics foods is a vital aspect to feeling America’s most-stressed genera- cycle - the stress makes me sleep Stressed out students can often and wind down with a book or re- good inside and out. By no means tion, according to the American less and the lack of sleep makes only think about their academic re- laxing music. That way, you’ll be do you have to follow a strict diet Psychological Association. Be- the quality of my work worse, sponsibilities and are left drained able to fall asleep more quickly plan or training regimen, but being tween school, clubs, sports, and which, in the end, makes me even of energy. and sleep more soundly, ultimately conscious of what you consume everything else that goes on in more stressed. Getting stressed Being capable of memorizing feeling more well-rested when you on a daily basis can be incred- a Payton student’s life, trying to about being stressed doesn’t help vocabulary, topics and concepts wake up in the early hours of the ibly important to your physical juggle so many tasks simultane- much,” said Sam Algas ‘17. is essential to success in many morning for school. well-being. Understanding simple ously can be stress-inducing and This vicious cycle is relatively classes at Payton. However, when 2. Exercise often. If you’re not facts about nutrition and the food overwhelming. common for Payton students and stressed, the task of memoriza- involved in a sport in which you around you can greatly increase Students at Payton are scarily hurts academic performance. tion is much more difficult for the regularly work out, exercising can your quality of life. familiar with stress, but typically Now, how exactly does stress brain. The region of the brain re- be a real challenge. But whether For example, it is easy to over- unfamiliar with how gravely this impede a student’s academic abil- sponsible for working memory is you’re going for a quick run or look the fact that the average can stress affects their bodies and their ity? It hurts concentration, sleep sabotaged when the brain is ex- heading to your local gym to lift, of soda contains approximately performance in school. cycles, and working and long-term periencing high levels of stress. working out releases endorphins ten teaspoons of sugar. Drinking Although sometimes taken memory. Marc Brackett, a re- Students may blame themselves and gives you more energy. a soda upon arriving home from lightly, stress can greatly affect the searcher in Yale University’s De- for being unable to remember the Even if you’re not looking to school is not only unhealthy, but way the body works and responds partment of Psychology reported: material, however the stress they change your body weight, work- it can cause a sugar crash, making to everyday activities. According “It’s hard to concentrate and... are under may be what is to blame. ing out has drastic effects on your it very difficult to concentrate on to USA Today, as a result of high do well in school if your brain is Just as high levels of stress of- mood and can help you be a hap- schoolwork. stress, 32% of students experience constantly having to respond to ten have a negative impact, low pier person all around. In fact, Most U.S. youth possess poor headaches, 26% report changes in stress.” stress levels can often have a exercise has been shown to be an eating habits, according to the sleeping habits, and 26% report The disruption stress causes positive impact on performance, effective stress reliever; activities Center for Disease Control, which negative mood changes toward often has tangible and unpleas- specifically in an educational set- that help to relieve stress are an is particularly concerning when academic and athletic peers. Stress ant effects; the Nemours Founda- ting. Low stress helps to motivate important coping mechanism with CDC research has shown that affects both the person that experi- tion of Pediatric Research found students as it makes them feel as the pressures of adolescent life. “healthy eating in childhood and ences it and the people around that that “high anxiety...results in low if they have responsibilities that 3. Work efficiently. The largest adolescence is important for prop- person. test scores” which often results in must be fulfilled or assignments part of many Payton students’ lives er growth and development and Whether it’s overeating or more stress when the test results to be completed. Mary Alvord, a is their workload. Some students can prevent health problems such not eating enough, insomnia or are received. famed teen psychologist, stated in have trouble handling homework, as obesity, dental cavities, iron de- headaches, symptoms commonly The APA found a distinct rela- her recent work that “a little stress assignments and tests on top of all ficiency, and osteoporosis.” experienced by someone who is tionship between sleep and stress; and in moderation can be helpful the other obligations in their lives. stressed can negatively affect the students who reported having a to high schoolers in so many ways. social and emotional aspects of low-stress level slept, on average, It motivates them to study, to do Salmon with Quinoa life. an hour more than their highly- better. It helps push them.” 1 serving (8 ounces) salmon In separate pan, add butter and Not only does negative stress stressed student counterpart. So while it is clear that the high 1 teaspoon olive oil chopped onions. Sauté onions un- affect one’s body, it can have direct Not only that, but a student with levels of stress many Payton stu- 1 box quinoa til slightly browned. Add onions effects on one’s ability to succeed low-stress levels has better qual- dents face is detrimental, low lev- 2 florets broccoli to cooked quinoa mixture and stir in school. Being stressed ocan take ity sleep than their highly-stressed els of stress can be beneficial. ½ onion, diced in. a toll on a student’s overall emo- counterpart. Because stress is usually an Salt and pepper to taste Cut stems off broccoli florets, tional and physical well-being, A lack of sleep can be detri- unavoidable aspect of being a Pay- then place the broccoli in a mi- which in turn hurts their academic mental in several ways; there’s the ton student, it’s important to take a Coat salmon in salt and pepper. crowave-safe dish and pour 2 to performance. obvious like falling asleep in class step back from the chaos and take Add olive oil to a non-stick pan, 3 tablespoons of water over top. The APA conducted a study or completing assignments half- a moment to breathe and relax. then add salmon and pan fry on Cover with a plate and microwave that found that 40% of teens feel heartedly, but there are also stud- Remember, a limited amount of both sides. on HIGH for 3 to 4 minutes. irritable or angry, 36% nervous or ies done by the APA that suggest stress can be helpful but any more Cook quinoa according to Plate quinoa and onion mix- anxious, and 33% overwhelmed, that a lack of sleep leaves students than that can disrupt one’s body box instructions, but substitute ture, broccoli and salmon, then depressed or sad as a result of unable to concentrate or with no and mind, negatively affecting chicken broth for water when enjoy! stress. These emotional responses motivation to take care of respon- day-to-day activities. cooking to add flavor. to stress impede students’ ability sibilities. PAW PRINT June 2016 STRESS 7 STRESS RELIEF Students under pressure to succeed By GRACE MCDERMOTT Staff Writer Students at Payton are, aca- about getting everything [i.e. col- extracurriculars, including sports before because they felt that they would love to have social-emo- demically speaking, the best of the lege applications] in.” and both academic and non-aca- had to study more. tional learning embedded in our best. She added, “The focal points demic clubs. Students are given While much of the pressure curriculum.” The test scores, grades, atten- of the stress can be different, but the chance to grow socially and does come from outside, many “I think that increased social- dance, graduation rate, AP scores, I think that something consistent emotionally in seminars and en- Payton students have a competi- emotional support and resources, and college acceptances are all throughout all four years is that richments, while maintaining high tive drive that can be detrimental whether it be programs or per- outstanding. We get into Payton by students are trying to figure out grades. However, this can cause to their health. They feel the need sonnel, would be beneficial at all being the best, and we stay in by who they are.” students to feel additional stress in to prove themselves, and they hold schools [to help alleviate stress],” being the best. The pressure that causes this these various areas associated with themselves to high standards. This said Mrs. Capeless. “I think that at But what is sacrificed to retain stress can come from many dif- school that can often make them is not necessarily a bad thing, but Payton, there are resources built in this reputation? ferent sources, according to Mrs. feel like they don’t have control of it can turn into a detrimental trait and offered, but maybe some stu- It is no secret that Payton stu- Allison Capeless, Payton’s social their own situations. when taken too far. dents aren’t aware of all of those, dents, along with a majority of oth- worker. “There are pressures here that But is there a way for this stress and we need to increase aware- er high school students, have high “The main causes of stress you can’t necessarily control,” to be alleviated? ness.” levels of stress, brought on by in- would be the pressure to be suc- said Mrs. Capeless. “What you can Both Dr. Bauer and Mrs. Cape- “If you’re in a classroom – I ner and outer pressures. Each step cessful in all areas of their life, pri- control is how you manage them.” less believe that with increased just read an article on CNN about taken in high school brings along marily academically – in all their “I think our Payton culture puts support of social and emotional a French class that starts class with a new adversity, and no group of classes, and their extracurricular pressure on students, but I think needs, there is a way for inner and ten minutes of meditation, and the students is immune. activities, and aside from academ- some students feel more in control outer pressure to be managed by students love it, because it helps “With freshmen, a big part of ics, relationships [cause the most than others,” said Dr. Bauer. “For students. them to destress – you can have the experience is transitioning,” stress], whether they’re social, ro- some students, their undue pres- “What I like about Payton is projects embedded into a course said Payton Director of Student mantic, or familial.” sure is coming from their families. that we provide opportunities to around wholeness and health,” Engagement Dr. Erica Bauer. Dr. Bauer agreed, commenting, As adults in this building, some- pursue health holistically,” said said Dr. Bauer. “With sophomores, I think part of “Underneath that surface level of times we [create pressure], wheth- Dr. Bauer. “I think our seminars “If we lose enrichments and the experience is figuring out if the stress, students are struggling with er we mean to or not, and your and enrichments do that well, but seminars, we are saying, ‘well, the supports and the flexibilities that ‘are they good enough?’” peers can create pressure.” even if we are doing everything students have no opportunity to do they had freshman year are gone, Payton grants a very unique op- It is not uncommon to see stu- for our students academically, we yoga,’ because that’s where our how they can navigate that. Ju- portunity to its students. In addi- dents in the hallway before a test are still not going to get or be giv- social-emotional learning takes nior year, they’re starting to stress tion to lofty academic standards, frantically looking through flash- ing our students one hundred per- place.” about ACT, SAT, colleges, and students are encouraged and ex- cards or to hear that a friend only cent if we are not equipping them then senior year, you’re stressing pected to participate in several got four hours of sleep the night with social-emotional learning. I Personal Essay: Personal Essay: The stigma of Stress of Payton life not attending a four-year college By HANNAH LOWENTHAL AND ELENA JOHNSTON By ABBY WOLFE AND RICHARD PIPER Staff Writers Staff Writers Stress is highly subjective. with the start of high school and How often do you think about Doctors cannot exactly define it, sophomores face much more re- where you’re going to be after saying that it is only a physical sponsibility and independence. you graduate? At Payton, many response to a demand for change. However, stress substantially students often go to four-year col- This certainly makes it impossible peaks around junior and senior leges and universities shortly after for them to measure it. year. Juniors are plagued with the graduating with many of them be- Yet everyone is affected by ACT and SAT. Seniors worry ex- ing highly selective. stress at some point or another. ponentially over the college ap- However, there is also a small, Payton students deal with an over- plication process. This stress only but significant statistical minor- whelming amount of stress . It builds, and it does not stop with ity of Payton students who attend may be a playoff game for soccer, academics. a two-year or community college or an AP World final exam, or even Payton’s academic rigor causes right after graduating. boyfriend troubles. Stress physi- students to compare their intelli- At a school so competitive and cally, emotionally, and mentally gence to others, increasing emo- highly-ranked as Payton, it’s rea- drains students. tional and social stress. After tests, sonable to say that there’s some In the Payton environment spe- students compare answers in the stigma surrounding students who cifically, the amount of stress that hallway. A week later, after the test do not choose to attend a four-year surrounds the students’ daily lives scores come back, “What did you college or university immediately is affected not only by academic get?” is the most frequently asked after graduation. However, there challenges but also by the social question. are many benefits to attending a pressure to be the best. An “A” is perceived by some as two-year or community college Being one of the best high average, and making a “B” is un- that are often overlooked or dis- schools in Illinois, Payton obvi- acceptable in their minds. Students missed. ously exerts pressure on its stu- face judgment from their peers After completing two years at dents to do well academically. when comparing test scores, ACT a City College of Chicago (CCC), From the wide variety of AP scores, and college admittance. anyone who meets this require- classes students are able to take to Some may argue that this social ment is guaranteed automatic ad- the standardized testing that they stress is even more detrimental to mission to UIC, according to their are required to take, Payton stu- a student’s mental health than aca- respective websites. For many dents are constantly encouraged to demic. families, this may be a good option take more challenging courses. A student could limit their financially as the annual tuition The advantages of attending a community college like these City Students fear disappointment number of AP courses or take less for an in-district resident CCC is Colleges of Chicago include lower tuition, lower chances of accumu- from their peers, parents, and challenging classes to decrease around $2000 while annual tuition lating student loan debt, and higher performance rates and a smooth teachers, but above all else they their academic workload, but the for an in-state student at UIC is transition when transferring to a four-year college. do not want to disappoint them- social stress that comes along with around $10,000 excluding room Photo used with permission of ccc.edu selves. being a “Payton student” is not as and board as well as other fees. Carol Casual ‘16 says that she and save money. There are also Payton’s cutthroat, demanding, easily controlled. Any CPS student with a 3.0 chose to go to Harold Washington people who choose to stay at home and competitive environment can People constantly measure their weighted GPA or higher is eligible college to take time with her major because they don’t feel that they’re often burden students with absurd intelligence next to others, making for the Chicago Star Scholarship, “while saving money.” ready to move away just yet. amounts of homework, tests, and students who do not have as high which is a full scholarship, in- There are many people who But no matter what the reason academic challenges. of test scores or take as many chal- cluding tuition and books, open to may choose to live at home to get may be, there’s nothing stopping Freshmen are overwhelmed lenging classes feel inadequate. students attending a city college. a job or continue to work at a job them from going to a city college. 8 FUN PAW PRINT June 2016 Horoscope: Your Zodiac Sign...in Sandwiches By IZZI EINHORN Staff Writer Aries: Shrimp Po-Boy you’re a very thoughtful, sweet in- breather every now and again; You have a bit of a kick to you, dividual. don’t be afraid to spend a night at Aries! This cajun’ sammy reflects home relaxing by yourself. your out-there, yet seasoned de- Leo: Reuben meanor. You’re not always everyone’s cup Scorpio: Philly Cheese Steak of tea, but you have good friends Let people in more, let them see Taurus: Sloppy Joe that’ll stand by you through thick the real you. Few people know You’re a comfort to those around and thin. Be open to new experi- who you truly are, but those who you. You’re a sweet’ thang and ences, but don’t change to please do are with you for the long haul. you’re secure in who you are. You others. rock. Keep it up! Sagittarius: Ice Cream Virgo: Veggie Wrap Sandwich Gemini: Egg Salad Sandwich You have a dry sense of humor, You’re spunky, sweet, and cool. You got oomph, Gemini. You have Virgo. You’re hip, cool, and go- You’re friends adore you, but you a lot of depth and, at the same time, with-the-flow. You keep it cool, can be a bit immature. Which sandwich are you? are quick-witted and light of heart. but can be high maintenance. Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Make sure you’re putting your all Capricorn- PB & J Peanut_butter_and_jelly_sandwich into all of your relationships. Libra: Banana-Nutella You’re classic, Capricorn. Every- You’re a staple member of society. Pisces- Bagel (cream cheese re- Sandwich one has a soft spot for you. Don’t You are level-headed and genuine. quired) Cancer: Grilled Cheese Libra-- everyone loves you! You’re let peers take advantage of you; You’re a good friend and travel You’re slick, Pisces. You’re an You’re charismatic, charming, and a sweet treat in the lives of every- stand up for what you want! companion. Make a point of being outspoken individual-- daresay classic with an edge. You have a one you encounter, but too much more secure in yourself and your leader-- in many areas of your life, tough exterior, but once people get of a good thing can be a bit over- Aquarius- Turkey Sandwich decisions; you’ll be more prepared but you have quite a few secrets. to know you they quickly realize whelming. Make sure you take a (cheese optional) for life’s hurdles than you think. Millenium Park Sudoku Summer Concert Series Schedule Thursday, June 23, 6:30pm Maceo Parker + Marrow

Monday, June 27, 6:30pm Eddie Palmieri Salsa Orchestra + Ecos del Pacifico

Thursday, June 30, 6:30pm Givers + Lower Dens

Monday, July 4 and Thursday, July 7 Taste of Chicago

Monday, July 11, 6:30pm Femi Kuti + The Positive Force + ProbCause

Thursday, July 14, 6:30pm Azymuth + Sidewalk Chalk

Monday, July 18, 6:30pm King Sunny Ade + Ugochi & A.S.E.

Thursday, July 21, 6:30pm Heritage Blues Orchestra + Toshi Reagon

Monday, July 25 6:30pm Help Jonathan Annicks ‘16 The Jones Family Singers + Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir Dream Again! Thursday, July 28, 6:30pm No Show – Lollapalooza Weekend

Monday, August 1, 6:30pm Jose Gonzalez + Tall Heights

Thursday, August 4, 6:30pm Sinkane + Mark de Clive-Lowe

Mondays, August 8, 15 and 22 No Shows

Thursday, August 11, 6:30pm Mbongwana Star + Dos Santos Antibeat Orchestra

Thursday, August 18, 6:30pm Elephant Revival + Mandolin Orange Go to www.plumfund.com/medical-fund/help-jonathan- Thursday, August 25, 6:30pm Tortoise + Homme annicks-dream-again to contribute to the medical fund for our Payton graduate, Jonathan Annicks.