THE NATION’S OLDEST ON THE WEB: COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL students.pingry.org/ NEWSPAPER record

Volume CXLV, Number I October 25, 2019

Everything You Need to Know About the New Head of School When asked about his vision for EVA SCHILLER( V), VICKY Pingry, Mr. Levinson left his response GU (VI), MEGHAN DURKIN open-ended. Rather than only him (V) deciding where Pingry should go in Though the Pingry community has the upcoming years, he thinks that known his name for almost a year now, everyone should have input and “that Mr. Matt Levinson has just begun his the vision question is something we all first academic year as our new Head need to invest in and work on together.” of School. Following a five-month However, he does have a “strategic search and a unanimous vote from the plan focusing on global education, Board of Trustees, Pingry officially student wellbeing, interdisciplinary welcomed its sixteenth Head of School learning… and also to promote teacher on July 1, 2019, succeeding Mr. growth and development.” Nathaniel Conard’s 14-year tenure as His first step is to address student Headmaster. wellbeing with the hopes of helping The role of the Head of School has the community “improve and be long been ambiguous to many Pingry attentive.” So far, he has met with students. Mr. Levinson explains his job peer leaders and teachers, and plans as keeping “everybody focused on the to do some staff training in November. student experience… from myself, to Speaking on the Pingry community, all administration, staff, and teachers,” Mr. Levinson noted that “everyone’s and that “every day is different. There been incredibly welcoming, which has Homecoming Pride Culminates in a Dance to are a lot of interesting challenges that been wonderful.” He has visited classes cross my desk, problems to solve.” He on both campuses and gone to games Remember remarked, “But also, being out in the in order “to get the chance to see the community, being out in classes, being student experience.” What amazed him ZARA JACOB (V) Pingry Credit Union booth or having so it is no wonder that they won the out at games, is really important.” since his arrival was the “long history a chance to meet acclaimed world game.” When asked what drew him to Pingry, of people who invest their lives here. I The high temperatures of the final traveller Denis Belliveau. As the sun fell, Pingry students Mr. Levinson immediately responded, think everyone here is trying to always days of September thankfully began Throughout the afternoon, Pingry’s began to gear up for the Homecoming “the Honor Code was a first appeal… get better, no one’s standing still, which to subside by Saturday, October 5 sports teams competed against a slew dance. The theme, “Storm Area 51”, The trust that’s inherent in having an I love about the community.” on this event-packed day. By 8:30 of other New Jersey high school had decisively won when proposed Honor Code is really meaningful to me.” Mr. Levinson also revealed that the a.m., the Basking Ridge campus was teams, with each game starting in a vote to the student body. It Pingry’s inclusive atmosphere was also process for getting “Shorts Days” swarming with parents of Middle and approximately half an hour after the was based on a popular Internet attractive. “Commitment to diversity begins with students. A student emailed Upper school students for Pingry’s last began. At 2 p.m., girls’ varsity meme: supposedly, if enough people and inclusion is really important to him one evening asking to allow shorts annual Back to School Day, where soccer kicked off the sequence, raided the US Air Force facility, the me, personally and professionally,” he the next day, and by the end of the they sat for ten-minute versions defeating Livingston 5-1. The co–ed government would not be able to says, adding, “I’ve been really struck night, Mr. Levinson had confirmed one. of their children’s classes. There, varsity water polo team, played next, stop all participants from freeing and impressed by Pingry’s diversity “I know,” he says, “on a hot day, when parents could learn about the content winning their match against Saint whatever secrets, particularly aliens, and how it strengthens and enriches there’s no air conditioning, it’s nice to of their children’s courses while also Peter’s Prep 9-6. Varsity football kept there. Student raiders were the community.” be able to wear shorts.” getting to know the teacher. Parents was also victorious against Montclair appropriately dressed in glamorous, Beginning his career teaching both Speaking of air conditioning, will who were new to Pingry also had the Kimberley Academy. Girls’ varsity alien-themed attire. middle and high school students, Mr. Pingry ever get it? “That’s a big opportunity to tour the campus. field hockey was unfortunately “I really liked the Area 51 theme Levinson has stepped into many roles question I’m hearing; lots of people Following their simulated school defeated by Bridgewater Raritan, because of how uniquely relevant it within school communities, whether want to talk about that, but I don’t have day, parents joined others in the losing 0-2. The second water polo is to 2019,” says Anjali Kapoor (VI). that be coaching sports or serving as a an answer to that yet. It could happen. Pingry community for a bountiful fall game, this time with Pingry’s co–ed She states that students would be able dean of students. He believes that his I don’t know when, but I know it’s lunch. The spread included barbecue, junior varsity team, also won 9-6. The to look back at this particular dance experience allows him to “understand something that people, especially in the Italian food, and cider, but the dessert last two matches by the boys’ soccer and “remember how this was the everything that goes into running a big 90-degree weather, are very interested was particularly exquisite. To gear team ended in stunning victories; at year that millions of people signed organization like Pingry.” in.” Perhaps someday. up for the upcoming autumn season, about 4 p.m., the boys’ junior varsity up to storm Area 51 in search of Despite his extensive experience Mr. Levison concluded, “I would guests dined on apple cobbler, soccer team prevented Princeton Day aliens.” Alison Lee agrees: “yes, with education, he confessed that in just like to say I’ve been so impressed pumpkin spice mousse, and apple from scoring a single goal, winning outer space has been done before, high school, he was not always “as with the students in this school. The cider doughnuts. Another tent offered 9-0. Boys’ varsity soccer did the but I think what was unique about engaged as [he] should’ve or could engagement in the classes that I’ve spirited goodies, such as car stickers, same, beating Princeton Day with a this year was that we took a current have been, but something just kind seen, from kindergarten all the way t-shirts, and blue-beaded necklaces score of 6-0. event as our theme… Honestly, I feel of kicked in senior year and a couple through 12th grade, makes it clear in preparation for the upcoming “[The girls’ varsity soccer players] like it might even be the best theme teachers really inspired [him].” During that the kids here really like learning sports games. Visitors were able are a formidable team,” says Alison that we’ve had so far because of its his time at Pingry so far, he has noticed and want to learn, and the teachers are to participate in other activities Lee (VI). “Their finesse and uniqueness to our time.” “how much [the teachers] are inspiring really invested in making that happen.” as well, such as checking out the teamwork is absolutely astonishing, to you all.” Inside the Record Opinions School News

Merit Diplomacy and Pingry’s Economy of Gender Neutral Bathroom (p. 11) Accolades (p. 2) Form Trips (p. 14-15) Teacher-Student Communication: A Divided Exchange (p. 4) New Faculty (pp. 8-11) Summer Experiences Comics, Crosswords, and a fresh new look! Wong on Hong Kong (p. 6)

Photo Credits: Pingry Communications 2 THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY OCTOBER 25, 2019 Merit Diplomacy and Pingry’s What I really think of the Economy of Accolades Honor Code at Pingry of student leadership is not the game anxious feeling of watching and NOAH BERGAM (V) ZARA JACOB (V) lives, in our academic lives, and of direct merit I thought it was. waiting for that reward. in our extracurriculars. Are we all There are issues that everyone In the spring of last year, some I wouldn’t go so far to say it’s a Now your mistakes are visible. impeccable Pingry students that have agrees are violations of the Honor friends and I became obsessed with bloodbath, zero sum-game, but there’s Now you have to know why you upheld the contract we so earnestly Code: bullying, vandalism, racism, an online game called Diplomacy. certainly an element of transaction, have the position you have, and why signed on the first Friday of the sexism, and so on and so forth. If In this wonderfully irritating game, and therefore diplomacy, you have to others should follow you. You need school year? any such disrespectful actions are each player owns a certain pre-WWI master. Complex transactions of time legitimacy to hold on to what you No, we are not. I know that I am committed, we unanimously cite European country, and, move by and energy for club tenure and awards. have. not. So how can I judge? How can I the perpetrator’s betrayal of the move, they try to maximize their It’s really an economy of accolades, I’m the first junior editor-in-chief be so shocked? How can I write this Honor Code. We have a general territory. where the currency is our effort as of this paper in recent memory. 650-word rant about the Honor Code consensus in this respect. However, Since each player starts out with students outside the classroom. We And I know that raises eyebrows simply because someone cheated? there are some topics of contention roughly the same resources, the only involve ourselves in activities and to my counterparts who know my I can do this because I cannot pretend among the student body when it way to succeed is to make alliances, to invest our time, of course, to do things brother was editor-in-chief last year. to be okay with people cheating. I got comes to breaking the Honor Code, get people to trust you, and, of course, we love, but there’s no denying that I acknowledge that publicly, because some of my lowest grades on the including—but definitely not limited to silently betray that trust at some there’s an incentive to earn a title, a I’m putting the integrity and openness very tests the aforementioned person to–– cheating, using Sparknotes, point to reach the top. position of my job here above my own personal cheated on. I would study for hours, and breaking the dress code. Maybe This was perhaps the first fear of being seen as some privileged days before the test, dreading what when we students talk to teachers, time I was introduced to sequel. I’m not going to let whispers types of questions were going to be administrators, or prospective parents, the concept of a zero-sum define my work. I know who I am, asked. Meanwhile, that student was we have the facade of a united front, game––a system where, in and it’s more than just this title. It’s cruising, already having known the but I assure you, we have quite a order to gain, someone else more than a well-spent investment exact questions on the test. I wasn’t spectrum of opinions ranging from must lose. I was terrible at it. in the economy of accolades. And just appalled; I was infuriated. The very conservative to very rebellious. I didn’t have the confidence to I’ll prove it. message I’d been left with was this: Last year, I found out about really scare anyone. I couldn’t That’s what the diplomacy side of “Life’s not fair. Get used to it.” someone cheating on a test. Now, keep a secret for my life. And things teaches you. You come to a It is unfortunate, but it could not when I say “cheating,” I do not mean worst of all, I couldn’t get be more true. Not everyone is going watershed moment in high school “Sparknoting” Jane Eyre or telling anyone to trust me. to follow the Honor Code; not in where you pass the illusion someone that the test was easy or Pingry, not in college, and not in the The ‘game’ I was most familiar of the merit machine and hard, but blatantly communicating real world. with up to that point was that of school, realize it’s all a matter of the exact problems that would be on I do not have a magical solution. of direct merit. A system where hard communication. the test. I was shocked. I knew people of I could end this opinion piece by work and quality results are supposed Merit diplomacy can be looked at siblings’ tests or maybe leadership that saying that everyone should try to to pay off on an individual basis, and an ugly and nerve wracking concept; knew the bonus question, but I was can be translated onto a resumé. be good, and that we should try to one person’s success doesn’t have to it’s damaging to take it so seriously. genuinely shocked by this incident. It’s an ugly mindset, but it make life fair by following the Honor mean another’s failure. It distracts from true passion, and Sometimes we make fun of the unfortunately exists. And the ruling Code to the best of our ability, but I was especially entrenched in that it reinforces the bubble of Pingry Honor Code for being too idealistic principle is merit diplomacy––for that would just further breach my mindset when my brother went to life, making us deify our in-school or rigid, but was it really so naïve the underclassmen, a more merit- integrity. The person who cheated will Pingry. I looked up to his leadership positions and the idea of the accolade of me to believe that students would probably cheat again and get away and social abilities, his diplomacy oriented rise through application rather than the identity of the students not actually cheat on a test? I will with it. Pingry can make us sign all essentially, and realized I could processes and appointments, and for themselves. acknowledge that I am not a person of the contracts in the world, have us never be like him in that realm––I upperclassmen leaders, a need to There are communities and worlds who breaks a lot of rules, so maybe write the Honor Pledge thousands of didn’t have the same sort of outward balance the prerogatives and talents beyond this school. And one might my shock is simply a consequence times, and have brilliant speakers for confidence and social cunning. All I of constituent club members. think of Pingry’s economy of of my ignorance. However, I guess the Honor Board’s Speaker series, could do was look at his numbers and That diplomatic end for the student accolades as the microcosm of the I expected that as a student body, we but the Honor Code at Pingry is, try my best to one-up them; in my leader is taxing. You have to think ‘real world.’ But I think even that agreed upon, if nothing else, perhaps at its root, a suggestion—a highly mind, that was the only way for me in terms of your own defense when gives it too much credit. the most basic principle of the Honor recommended suggestion—but a to prove I wasn’t inferior. people doubt your abilities. You need It’s practice. It should be a side Code: integrity. Then again, I did suggestion nevertheless. But now that brotherly competition to make sure people still invest time not report that person, so who am I thought to our passions, not the Follow the Honor Code, or don’t is gone. And I have the leadership in what you run. You want respect. to talk? intense focus of student life. Merit follow the Honor Code; the one truth Friendship. But sometimes you can’t Let’s be completely candid about I’ve been working toward. And diplomacy is a game––perhaps a high- I can tell you is that it comes down shake off the guilt of getting that how many times we break the Honor now I’m realizing that, from my stakes game––but a game nonetheless. to you and the values you choose to position, because you know the Code each day, in our personal current perspective, Pingry’s system have faith in. Shed Unhealthy Competition and Bloom EVA SCHILLER (V) an award were elevated in my eyes; mutually exclusive. That fact had not part of a greater pattern of elevating fulfillment that doing one’s best they had joined the ranks of the escaped me; I had simply entered a certain “high achieving” students should induce. “And the award goes to……?” legendary Pingry students who had competitive environment and found who have been selected as the face Abolishing Fall Awards is one I hear a number of students inhale been called to the stage before them, myself playing along. of the Pingry establishment. They are plausible way to reduce Pingry’s with suspense. I inhale, too. They or been inducted into Cum Laude, or In a world fighting valiantly essential to the reputation of a school needlessly competitive atmosphere. announce the winner. The students been accepted into the best colleges. against participation trophy culture, such as Pingry as well as students in Whether or not the awards stick exhale. I exhale, too. One student How could I possibly compete? giving plenty of awards to those the college application process. around for the next few years, stands up. I stay seated. As I contemplated their successes, who deserve them and motivating However, in schools like ours, however, we can take it upon A few weeks ago, clad in dresses, I began to wonder exactly why I cared others to up their game is what every where good-natured competition has ourselves to avoid falling into the heels, suits, and ties, we sat in Hauser so much. Why should I feel the need good school should be doing. Right? become a large part of our culture, trap of comparing ourselves to others. Auditorium and cheered as the best to compete at all? Yes, to some extent. However, I Fall Awards seem excessive. They To quote Zen Shin Talks, by Sensei and brightest of Pingry stood proudly If I am honest with myself, I know would like to offer an alternative push too far in the opposite direction Ogui, “A flower does not think of on stage and received various awards. the answer to the aforementioned perspective: overly competitive of participation trophy culture. competing with the flowers next to From earning the highest grade point question. I had begun to believe that environments shift our goals; rather Achievements such as good grades it. It just blooms.” averages to being the best at giving in order to succeed, I had to beat than simply seeking personal growth, or good deeds are commendable, but Next fall, when we sit in Hauser back to the larger community, each others. I had to be the best, and one we determine our worth based on the they cannot exist on pedestals without Auditorium once more, clad in and every person standing in the way I could feel that validation was number of people we are better than. the risk of adding a competitive dresses, heels, suits, and ties, spotlight, smiling radiantly down to hear my name in the microphone, There are countless pedestals on aspect to something that should be make sure to know this distinction. on me, had achieved something and to be the student that stood up and which Pingry students stand: team a purely individual endeavor. Doing Whether you are standing on stage important. They had also, evidently, stepped proudly into the spotlight. captain, club leader, or LeBow well in class, being nice to others, and smiling radiantly down or in the achieved something I had not, and as I don’t know when I developed winner, for example. These pedestals heavily investing oneself in subjects crowd cheering for your peers, take they basked in the moment, I could this mindset, but I do know two exist in the public eye because they such as science or history should be a moment to appreciate your own do nothing but look up to them, both things: first, that I am not the only are relevant to our community; teams for the sake of a student’s personal achievements. Recognize that the literally and figuratively. person at Pingry who holds this and clubs exist in the Pingry’s public growth and not for any other public real focus of the ceremony is not to After the assembly, I couldn’t help mindset. Second, it is a position sphere, a part of many students’ incentive. The Fall Awards detract beat other people, but to embody the but marvel at how strongly the Fall that is fundamentally flawed; there lives, and LeBow speakers compete from the personal accomplishments awards on a personal level. Awards Assembly affected how I are millions of successful people in in Hauser Auditorium as the student of each student by publicizing them Allow yourself to bloom. view my peers. Those who had won the world today, so success is not body looks on. These awards are and undermine the pride and self- Photo Credits (Left to Right): Noah Bergam (V) THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY OCTOBER 25, 2019 3

The World We Live In A New Kind of Nostalgia MIRIKA JAMBUDI (III) many kids in as possible, lock all the MEGAN DURKIN (V) nostalgia is evident in recent The accessibility of nostalgia The world I’m growing up in scares doors, and hide. The threat has become fashion trends: platform shoes is present in the popularity of me to death. It seems like everywhere omnipresent. It’s not far away and from the seventies, scrunchies Netflix. With the click of a button, My brother joined me outside, vague anymore, but something that from the eighties, and the denim- people can watch shows and movies I look there is something to be afraid football in hand. The fall wind could actually happen to us. Even in on-denim look from the nineties. from decades ago. These shows, of. In fact, I’m almost fifteen and I just brushed past our faces as it carried the bathroom stalls, the inner doors The popularity of these trends has including Friends and The Office, got permission this summer to ride my the ball from his hands to mine and are plastered with laminated posters resurfaced decades later to blend are not only watched by original bike to my friend’s house. It’s only two back. Our hands grew colder with explaining what to do if someone is into today’s fashion. While acting fans, but by a new generation who blocks away, but I understand why. each toss until we ran inside for in the bathroom while a lockdown is as reminders of the past, they serve wishes to be included in the shows The world I’m growing up in is scary warmth. It was the first time we as evidence of the desire to return to and the collective experience they because it’s dangerous. I can’t tell you in progress. It tells me what keywords had thrown the football together and pull from what was. Nostalgia create. Along with this, the Netflix that it’s more dangerous than any other to listen for to make sure the all-clear in years. When we were younger, is also fueling the entertainment revivals of shows such as Gilmore period in human history, but I can tell is legitimate. The danger of a school it was a weekly ritual, and one that industry. In the last six months, Girls and Arrested Development you this: we’re certainly more aware shooting stares me in the face while brought us sweet memories. Five Disney has released three live action give viewers a greater entrance of it. The news flashes every day with I use the bathroom. It’s an unfading years later, standing in my backyard remakes into the past as it seemingly new stories of gunmen, arson, murder, feeling of unease, present even when as the football flew through the of their takes them, in a new way, and scandal in our very own White I’m walking down the hall with a chilling air, I felt the desire to classic back to the first time they House. That shadow in the corner of friend, goofing off like an average pair reverse time. I wanted more than to films, saw the show. For original my eye, that’s danger. The creak on of freshmen. I see the security guards be reminded of what we used to do; viewers, this type of access the stairs when I’m home alone, that’s on duty keeping an eye on everything, I wanted to be back in that time. I to their favorite show has danger. This constant fear bleeds into watching for any signs of suspicious wished for my carefree, strong self; only been made possible every single aspect of my life. activity. I understand why they are I needed my brother to have time to recently. In school, we’ve had lockdown drills there, of course, but it reminds me that spend with me again. While nostalgia allows for as long as I can remember. An nowhere is safe. I felt nostalgic. The feeling was fond times and experiences announcement is made, so we lock the I live in the epitome of suburbia, so overwhelmingly bittersweet. I in our lives to resurface, it can doors, draw the blinds, huddle in the it’s strange to have this fear everywhere envied my former self. The including Aladdin and be dangerous. Nostalgia acts as corner, and stay as silent as possible. I go. We have become desensitized to nostalgia consumed me. But I The Lion King, which, another form of regret, a form that For those 4-7 minutes, I examine shootings and gun violence, and know I’m surely not alone in combined, made over two is often sheltered from the negative my best friend’s shoelaces intently. I barely react to the now daily reports this feeling. Society has come billion dollars at the box office. These connotations. The feeling stops us imagine what I would do, if at that of shootings. Everywhere is unsafe: to seek nostalgia more frequently. movies attracted people who had from letting go; it stops us from very moment, the drill was real and first movie theaters, coffee shops, and The feeling has shaped our media, watched them as kids, capitalizing being satisfied. With expanding retail stores, and now schools. For trends, and fashion. Nostalgia, often a shooter barged into the classroom. I on the need for nostalgia. The films technology and connection, me, school is a place I look forward a relatively personal feeling, has count the bricks on the wall. I wonder allow them to relive a simpler, often nostalgia is no longer as simple as to going everyday; however, some become global. The connectivity of if this is what it felt like to live during more desirable, time in their lives. reminiscing over tossing the football days, when I step off of that yellow our world, which has only recently the Cold War, diving under desks to Furthermore, both the resurfacing in the backyard; it is a way to expose Kensington bus, I feel afraid of the expanded, forces commonalities in take cover at the prospect of nuclear of fashion trends and classic movies the discontent with society in the experiences that trigger nostalgia. war. Then, I wonder why people unknown, and I concoct imaginary stress the worldwide nature of present. People wish to go back to a With the rise of technology and believed that a wooden desk could stop emergency scenarios in my head. I nostalgia. It is felt universally by time in which they believe the world social media, we have a greater an atomic bomb. Probably, I think, for have my parents on speed dial, as a a generation. As distant places was better off. The rise of global access to shared thoughts and the same reasons we draw the blinds “just-in-case.” I have a message in and people are connected through nostalgia signifies a collective events, which ultimately allows and lock the doors. Ever since the the notes section of my phone for my technology, that shared nostalgia need to remove ourselves from the nostalgia to shape our world as an shooting in Parkland, Florida, though, loved ones, should something actually is more accessible and society is present, and reminisce about the image of the past. something has changed. Everything happen to me, though the chances are reaching for it. simpler times of our past. feels more real. The idea of a school slim. I really shouldn’t have to worry This newfound sense of global shooting used to be almost nonexistent. about this; I’m just your average Something that happened to those poor high school freshman trying not to kids in Sandy Hook, but could never fail Spanish and science, binging Dress Code in the Sky happen to us. rom-coms and Disney movies in her BRYNN WEISHOLTZ (VI) The stranger in row 7 became a open toes shoes or barefoot), I do But the national uproar 5,000 free time. We shouldn’t have to worry topic for most of the passengers on question the implementation of the miles away brought about changes that when we leave our houses in the As I boarded the plane and walked the plane. People were suddenly airline’s dress code when deciding reaching all the way to Pingry. Now, morning for school, it might be the last to my seat, I paid little attention interested in something other than what makes an outfit fit for travel. we have more detailed lockdown time our parents see us alive. to the people surrounding me––I their magazines and music. What This passenger was not offered a procedures. Recently, we had an Our government should have stepped was unaware of who they were, we came to learn is that this woman complimentary shirt or article of assembly describing safety procedures, up on gun policies and implemented how they looked, and where they entered the aircraft as every other clothing, nor was she provided and our newly installed lockdown stricter gun laws years ago, right after were going. I placed my carry-on paying passenger did, and was with a blanket to wrap around buttons in case of an emergency. We the incident at Sandy Hook. How bag in the compartment above my asked to leave the plane because of her exposed area. Rather, she was know what to do during lunch, during many more lives must be lost until our head, took my seat, secured my her clothing. Her crime was wearing forced to forgo her seat and return time between classes. We know that government takes charge? Our nation seatbelt, inserted my airpods and a tube top. Apparently, exposing to the terminal. United Airlines if there’s an emergency, we are to go needs action, and it is long overdue. chose my favorite playlist; I was one’s midriff on a United Airlines did not care that she would be into the nearest open classroom, let as settled in and ready for a relaxing flight is against the company’s missing out on her vacation or that flight. It’s odd––every individual dress code and results in removal she paid for this flight and hotel has their own life, in which they from the aircraft. How could this accommodations. All that seemed make their own choices, have their be? She wasn’t unclothed. I didn’t to be of importance was that her own opinions, and live with their find her outfit tasteless, especially clothing was out of dress code for own consequences. As such, we since I had, on multiple occasions, the flight. rarely think about strangers because boarded a United Airlines flight This inherently begs the question: Volume CXLV, Number 1 we are so consumed with our own wearing some variation of that how can our society, which preaches existences. outfit; actually, on that very flight, I, freedom of expression, dictate what Editors-in-Chief Copy Editors But on this flight, I thought about too, donned leggings and a tube top; we as people wear when it is not Brynn Weisholtz Aneesh Karuppur the person three rows ahead of me however my stomach was covered offensive nor harmful? Limiting Noah Bergam Brooke Pan en route to our sunny destination. by a zippered sweatshirt, for the sole a person’s clothing choices in Martha Lewand Listening to my downloaded purpose of staying warm inflight. I a public arena is in opposition Assistant Editors Brian Li Spotify playlist, my song was was actually shocked that this was to a freedom we hold in high Eva Schiller Dean Koenig interrupted by a loud disturbance, an issue, as I had never even heard regard in America. And the lack Meghan Durkin an escalating conversation between about a dress code for a flight. After of compassion expressed by the Vicky Gu Photography Editor a passenger and a United Airlines some research, I located the United employees for the passenger and the Rhea Kapur representative. I wasn’t sure what Airlines Dress Code, which bans situation was equally as shameful Layout Editors the argument was about. Was it a attire like swimwear and mini skirts. in my opinion. I am confident that While, I understand the necessity the woman did not choose to wear Justin Li seating issue? Was the passenger on Faculty Advisors the wrong plane? Did she possess a for some of these restrictions, a tube top to blatantly defy the Noopur Bhatt Meghan Finegan liquid more than the permitted 1.7 whether it be to safeguard people airline’s policy. On the contrary, Megan Jones ounces? All I could deduce was from derogatory words or protect she likely chose her outfit for the that something very serious was passengers from clothing deemed same reasons I chose my outfit that going on. hazardous by the airline (i.e., morning….it was comfortable.

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Colin Wen (VI) 4 THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY OCTOBER 25, 2019 Teacher-Student Communication: A Divided Exchange JUSTIN LI (V) information. More and more, the compounded. For instance, what How about every week? If both assembly outlining these boundaries, student’s relationship with their can we categorize as appropriate teacher and student feel entirely accompanied by an accessible email Traditionally, the process of teachers is becoming an exchange in mediums of external communication? comfortable during the interaction, or document. education has been regarded as which both sides participate equally. Pingry students reach out to faculty has a boundary been crossed? In short, I believe that in order In the same way that a teacher confers through their Pingry email addresses. In many cases, I don’t believe so. to create an environment that is the unreciprocated transfer of their own knowledge, they encourage The formality of typical email Whether it be through the tone of the both conducive to learning and information to a student, who is the expression of the student’s own conventions, as well as the fact that conversation or a common hobby, a comfortable for students, it is the treated as an empty container to be ideas, even when they counter their all correspondence occurs under a certain kind of respect accompanies administration’s paramount duty to filled. Paulo Freire, a 20th-century own. However, this model — one in “pingry.org” domain, makes this a student’s ability to relate with draw and enforce teacher-student philosopher on pedagogy, refers to which it is possible for the student to choice the standard. The nature of an his teacher. For example, I don’t boundaries. At Pingry, violations of this antiquated model as “banking teach the teacher—inherently blurs alternate method of communication, believe that the sole act of texting a these boundaries have been treated education,” which he demonstrates the roles that their very titles suggest; such as text messaging, is more student is necessarily inappropriate, with gravity and resolved with as discouraging to critical thinking an effective problem-posing teacher of a grey area; it elicits the use of even about nonacademic subjects. exemplary speed. Simultaneously, and creativity. invites this lack of distinction in the abbreviations, emojis, and a relatively However, it is essential to understand though at a lesser degree, we must In recent years, society has begun classroom. informal tone. Text messaging is the that harmless familiarity can quickly value the educational benefits of an to progress from its sole reliance on Any school which uses the problem primary means of communication lead to being uncomfortable. Pingry’s empathetic relationship. We should memorization and one-sided lecturing posing model must also face the for most of the students I know, and administrators should make an recognize that students and teachers towards what Freire calls a “problem- practical implications of a more likely the same for many teachers. effort to more clearly establish the should not be as detached from each egalitarian relationship between Thus, texting seems more natural details of this boundary to both other as they traditionally were. In posing model,” which characterizes the teacher and student. Though in a medium of communication for faculty and students, and ensure that fact, with strict barriers, we should education as a mutually beneficial abstract, such a relationship should almost all of us, as it feels more violations are identifiable, without embrace the fact that teachers and barter of knowledge between teacher promote an education based on like a conversation than a series of question. In practice, a good start students are more alike than we think. and student. Through conversations critical thinking, a lack of boundaries inquiries. The topic and frequency to this goal might look like a formal with students attending high school can create a potential for abuse of of external communication is in different parts of the world, I’ve power, conflicts of interest, and other also important to consider. When realized that Pingry is on the cutting forms of misconduct. a teacher and a student share an Word in the Halls: edge of this evolution. Beyond the relative security that interest in the same NBA team, or In other words, at least at Pingry, watchful students and teachers both enjoy biking as a hobby, is it Is climate change the most important problem students should no longer view provide within the peripheries of inappropriate for them to speak about their teachers as distant faucets of the Pingry campus, these issues are it outside of school occasionally? facing America? Why or why not?

“It’s a global issue. It’s the most vital issue that we need to solve The Magic Number because if we don’t have the earth, then every other issue is ANEESH KARUPPUR(V) pretty trivial” - Sanjana Biswas 9, 13, 15,16,19. (V) A math problem? Of sorts, yes. Except it extends beyond the scope of a simple one-period, ten-problem math test—it is something we deal with at Pingry daily. “Yes, because we might die.” - Class sizes are one of the most Franklin Zhu (IV) important parts of an educational experience, but we talk about it the least. In fact, I have never heard anybody talk about class size during individual student, regardless of how science classes have more than 15 my two-and-a-half years at Pingry. good a teacher is. When 65 minutes students is quite a stretch. In fact, Of course, this is mostly justified. have to be divided up among more not a single one of the science classes “ It could impact our future. I Pingry’s class sizes are significantly students than normal, the time per is less than 13 students; Pingry’s think that’s really important, smaller than those in other schools, student ostensibly decreases. Science Department prides itself on so that future generations both public and private. Our student I wanted to make sure I wasn’t the its thorough explanation of concepts, could enjoy the outdoors and to faculty ratio is half of what it is in only one noticing that class sizes are but this disproportionate class size everything that we enjoy.” - surrounding public schools and one inching further away from that magic distribution hampers that proposition. Alexis Matthews (III) third of the national average. number 13. So, I created a survey that Now, I am in no way criticizing Smaller class sizes have long been asked for the class size (including the the faculty, staff, or administration. “Yes, because all of our societal linked to better academic performance teacher) of English, math, history, My point isn’t to criticize everyone issues are based around having and learning capabilities. For the science, and language classes. I sent except the students, but rather to actual ground to walk on. You same reason a private tutor is more out the survey to various juniors and note a trend that hurts our collective know, you gotta have actual earth helpful than a large group lesson, the entire Record staff. education. to build cities and roads and smaller class sizes allow for more Based on this data, class size Another important thing to note start working on other things.” - individual attention. Pingry bills its doesn’t really seem to be much of a is that this is in no way a perfectly Thomas Beacham (VI) class sizes as small enough to foster problem. The averages are slightly scientific survey––my sample size this connection between the faculty higher than 13, with the exception was small, and I relied heavily and other students, but not too small of science classes, which are fairly on convenience sampling for as to discourage collaboration and higher. On the other hand, language simplicity’s sake. In this survey, I “It’s not the most important teamwork. Our school prides itself issue facing America, but it’s classes seem particularly small. also asked for an ideal class size. The on these class size caps, which are the product of a trend of lacking Clearly, a pattern has emerged. minimum was 7, and the maximum featured prominently in multiple education, lacking ability Language classes are mostly was 15 students. The average was places on pingry.org. They are all to research it, and lacking reasonably sized, besides one large 10.82 students per class. Obviously, centered around the same line: awareness of our earth and our class. History is the next best, with classrooms and teachers don’t appear “keeping class sizes to 16 at the surroundings.” - Jamie Wang (VI) once again one very large class. out of thin air, but some future Lower School, 14 in the Middle English classes are in the middle thought needs to be given to what School, and 13 in the Upper School.” “I think that climate change is one of the pack, but the class size keeps class size the average student might Earlier this year, I noticed that my of the most important issues facing increasing. Math classes are a find beneficial. science class seemed unusually us a inhabitants of this planet. I little bit higher, but one class has Overall, there isn’t really much to don’t think it is just an American large. This made me realize that not a surprisingly large 20 students. panic about—just some intriguing issue. The actions we take as every class is as small as Pingry’s Science classes exhibit the largest numbers that show class sizes, individuals and as a nation have website claims. My science class, class sizes. especially in science, aren’t as low environmental repercussions that for example, has 16 students, which resonate far beyond our borders It’s understandable that not every as they should be and that maybe isn’t massive, but the lab always feels and potentially longer than our class can be exactly 13 students, the number 13 isn’t as magical as we full. With more students, it is more lifetimes” - Ms. Huang-Hobbs but to have almost three-quarters of might have thought. difficult to provide attention to each Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Communications, Eva Schiller (V), Vicky Gu (VI), Meghan Durkin (V) THE PINGRY RECORD COLUMNS OCTOBER 25, 2019 5 Kaplan Reviews “Far From Home” Karuppur Tackles ALEX KAPLAN (V) struggles to balance his life as a Peter laments not being able to spend normal teenager with his superhero time with the people in his class. Technology Tea Is it fair to put the weight of the world persona, which leads to some perilous Speaking directly to Mysterio, he on Peter Parker like Tony Stark does? situations. Peter spends the majority of says, “I didn’t think I was going to WARNING: This article contains the film on a field trip across Europe, have to save the world this summer. I spoilers for Avengers: Endgame and where he tries to ask out his crush, know that makes me sound like such Spider-Man: Far From Home. If you MJ. While on a bus through the a jerk. I just, I had this plan with this don’t want to read spoilers, don’t countryside, Peter realizes that the girl that I really like, and now it’s all read on. glasses Tony Stark left for him house ruined.” Peter is unable to commit his This past July, I saw the release of EDITH, and he attempts to use it to time to heroism, and, in my opinion, the second Spider-Man film from the remove an embarrassing photo from the Avengers should not expect him Marvel Cinematic Universe––Spider- another student’s phone. Instead, he to. He deserves to have a high school Man: Far From Home. The film was fails to exercise proper precaution and experience like anyone else’s. a continuation of where the universe nearly kills a member of his class with Overall, I thought that Spider- left off after Avengers: Endgame. The a drone strike. Needless to say, Peter Man: Far From Home was a well world is clearly still reeling from the does not have the proper experience put-together and enjoyable film. I loss of Iron Man in the battle against necessary to operate military-grade encourage anyone who likes both Thanos at the Avengers Headquarters, artificial intelligence technology. high school dramas and superhero/ and the people are looking for a new He is too concerned with the issues military shenanigans to watch it. It symbol of peace. Nobody feels this ANEESH KARUPPUR (V) sit this update out. surrounding his high-school life to to also serves as an effective reminder, pressure more than Peter Parker Apple also announced some focus on properly utilizing weapons and a cautionary tale to people like (played by Tom Holland), Tony Some interesting things transpired incremental upgrades in the Apple technology. Pingry students, that teenagers should Stark’s protege and high-school in the tech world over the summer, Unfortunately for Peter, he has to not be trusted with the fate of the Watch Series 5, but I still recommend spider-teenager. He is hounded by and even more during the start of the focus on being a hero, for wherever entire world. Much like Peter Parker, a Series 3 or a Series 4 if you can the press and Nick Fury, and to top school year. the trip goes, massive elemental we must be wary of overextending find one, as they have better value. it all off, Stark left Peter unfettered monsters follow. This seems to take ourselves. Perhaps the most talked-about Additionally, iPadOS on iPads can access to his military-grade weapons a toll on him, as throughout the film issue was the release of Apple’s now better mimic a laptop operating system, EDITH (“Even Dead I’m The new products in September, the system. To get a maximum bang for Hero”). The story follows Parker as he most buzzy of which is the new your buck, I recommend the regular deals with this pressure and interacts set of iPhones. These include the iPad (or iPad Pro for artists) with a with Mysterio, a walking fake-news iPhone 11, the iPhone 11 Pro, and Logitech Crayon stylus (or an Apple metaphor. The circumstances around the iPhone 11 Pro Max. The feature Pencil for artists). These tablets should the film raise a lot of interesting moral everyone seems to be talking about serve as good note-taking and art questions, including whether or not it are the new cameras; on the iPhone tools. Finally, Apple mildly updated is acceptable to deceive people for 11, there is now a second camera for their MacBook Pros by adding the their own comfort, and if it is fair to enhanced zoom. On the iPhone 11 interrupt a hero’s daily life to recruit TouchBar mini-touch screen, as well Pros, there are now three cameras: one them for a mission. Chief among these as some processor bumps. This last questions is this: is it fair to lay the for normal shots, one for closer ones, one gets a lukewarm recommendation hopes of the world on a teenage hero? and one for an ultra-wide picture. from me—I am hoping that Apple will Throughout the film, Peter Parker The cameras also feature a new respond to recent leaps made by other Night Mode, a concept likely pilfered manufacturers in the laptop industry from the previous “camera phone,” and further improve their product. On Abbey Road and Elton John the Google Pixel. Night Mode uses Now that I have Apple’s news out of software tools to brighten your image the way, let’s talk about Microsoft’s RHEA KAPUR (V) vulnerable track in and of itself, the all-encompassing and consuming without making it grainy. It draws new line of Surface products. The Even though I dislike the mainstream, song was written by Paul McCartney in conjunction with the story of out details from all the black spots Surface Laptop 3 is more of an his eventful, bright-as-a-supernova formulaic pop that constantly fills but it interestingly featured vocals of your picture. Portrait mode has incremental upgrade, but there is Spotify’s “Today’s Top Hits” Playlist, from all four Beatles. The sheer life. Hearing the song “Rocketman” been updated, as has the camera app finally USB-C in the laptop. This I keep an eye on the charts. Billboard pressure the song conveys (heavy blasted, I could sense the mixed itself. It is now easier to look at and port can connect to multiple displays, Hot 100? The top 200 albums? trumpets, “weight” being repeated, feelings and, of course, the Ray use. iPhones have long had 4K video Rolling Stone’s Top 100? iTunes etc. - and that abrupt ending) mirrors Bradbury influence - he wrote a drives, or any other device through (ultra-high-definition) abilities, and Top 100? You name it. Imagine my the Beatles’ own struggles at the time: short story in the 1950s entitled “The the use of a dongle instead of one surprise when, just a few days into inter-group rifts and management Rocket Man” upon which the song Apple is now advertising enhanced individual port. October, I saw not Taylor Swift’s troubles with Apple plagued them. lyrics are heavily based. editing tools to go along with it. Microsoft also updated the Surface Lover at the top of the Billboard Fellow juniors, I bet you can relate Elton John wrote about the most Finally, Apple is also selling “slofies” Pro 7 tablet with similar upgrades as 200, but The Beatles’ Abbey Road, to this pressure - I know I’m already obscure things - the “blue jean baby” with the new batch of iPhones, which the laptop. The new device here is the as it was just past the album’s 50th feeling it. Take comfort in knowing in his hands in “Tiny Dancer” (a are essentially slow-mo selfie videos. Surface Pro X, which is a clear iPad anniversary (Sept. 26th). that the Beatles, too, went through classic, by the way - simply a beautiful I would consider the camera upgrades Pro copycat. It is more of a laptop I went through a brief Beatles phase seemingly hopeless times - but of song), or “Spanish Harlem” in “Mona a reasonable selling point, but the than the Surface Pro 7 is, and comes this summer, after rediscovering course, theirs was probably much Lisas and Mad Hatters” (one of my “slofie” aspect is frankly not very with a harder keyboard. I still believe more significant, as the band ended favorite songs of all time, and one of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and the compelling. that a Dell XPS 2-in-1 would meet the “Twist and Shout” cameo - the up breaking up at the end. However, Elton’s own favorites, too. I mean, the Other upgrades from last year’s needs of just about every Windows song was on repeat for weeks, so those times overall turned out to be emotion in it is unparalleled). Honky phones include the improved glass user except the extremely involved much so that Spotify would start great and remembered from today’s Chateau is definitely a must-check- casing and a faster chip that features recommending it in every single perspective, and ours will too - have out album. But, I digress. Overall, artist, so I don’t have a whole lot to more machine-learning capabilities. one of my personalized playlists. faith. The weight, in fact, will be Elton manages to make each and recommend from Microsoft; they are I mainly listened to their popular “carried a long time.” every one of his songs striking and This means that the phone can better charging Apple-level prices while works - “Twist and Shout,” of course, A couple more gems from Abbey beautiful. He’s simply a genius - not optimize various tasks and generally Dell’s XPS’s are offering similar “Hey Jude” (the beautiful lyrics of Road - “You Never Give Me Your only with the jazz piano, which backs run faster during demanding tasks quality for significantly less money. which, by the way, were written by Money,” featuring a beautiful, almost all of his songs, but with the such as games and Schoology uploads. Finally, Samsung has announced its Paul McCartney to comfort John poignant piano base, “Oh! Darling” lyrics and the voice, too. I’m eternally The new iPhones also come in some Galaxy Note 10 phones, which offer Lennon’s son Julian during his with McCartney’s wrought, almost envious of those fortunate enough to nice new colors, and have improved the best performance an Android parents’ divorce), “Here Comes The painful, but undeniably powerful have witnessed his genius in person, screens for quality and color accuracy. phone can offer while still remaining Sun,” and “Blackbird.” But, last vocals, and of course, “Come in his prime (Mr. Keating, looking All of this is well and good, but svelte and making good use of the Together” with its unique instrumental at you!). week, after noticing the Beatles’ for me, it does not really add up to built in stylus (S-Pen). Personally, unusual appearance in the Billboard backbone - quiet, but with all the So I highly, highly recommend a compelling proposition. In fact, I am not a fan of Samsung devices, 200, and reminiscing about my more noticeable guitar and beats in checking out Elton John and Abbey these last two years of iPhones have and the camera hole in the display is, summer obsession, I was intrigued. the back. I highly recommend those. Road. Listen to them alone, in a quiet been fairly underwhelming. My So I put in headphones, closed my And check out the 2019 mix of Abbey space, or even on a rainy morning bus in my opinion, a worse design than recommendation is that, unless you doors, and blasted Abbey Road, Road - it has come out in honor of the ride, but with the music blasting as Apple’s notch. Regardless, the Note Remastered 2009. The Beatles’ swan 50th Anniversary! loud as you can bear - and really feel have an iPhone 7 or older, or you 10 is an impressive phone, and if you song. The famous last album. The To continue my “classics~vibes” the music. Let it transport you away really want the cool new camera are willing to pay over a thousand goodbye. And I have to say - it was music pattern, I was reminded of from the generic pop for a minute features, this absurdly expensive dollars, it’s a solid buy. an experience. Elton John - another great artist I and take you back to the roaring 60s update is not worth your money. That just about wraps it up for this My favorite song by far was “Carry constantly listened to this summer and 70s, when people, places, and Next year’s iPhones are rumored to issue’s tech column. I hope it helped That Weight,” one of the only songs after watching the movie in his honor, music had unique character. Anyway, have new designs and potentially you make more informed tech-buying on the album recorded with all four Rocketman, with some friends. I’ve been listening to these two as I 5G, the faster mobile data standard decisions. Stay tuned for the next members. It’s dark, it’s deep, it’s And what a movie that was. It was write this column, and it’s been the that some Android phones already issue! striking. A bit of history: recorded the first time I really listened to perfect vibe. I guarantee you, you’ll have. For now, just upload the new as one with “Golden Slumbers,” and recognized Elton John, and in be hooked. iOS 13 on your existing phone and an eerily reassuring, hopeful, and theaters, too - the music was just Photo Credits (Left to Right): Google Images, Google Images 6 THE PINGRY RECORD SUMMER EXPERIENCES OCTOBER 25, 2019

ANDREW WONG (IV) Wong Supports Hong Kong Protesters As my freshman year approached its by the Civil Human Rights Front finale of final exams, I looked forward in response to weeks of constant to a summer of rest and relaxation. police brutality against civilians. I Half a world away in Hong Kong, saw the full unity of Hong Kong on students were also busy preparing for display that day, where 1.7 million their exams and their summer. Unlike people of all ages, from little babies me, though, they were ready to forsake in strollers to the elderly, came out their fun summer activities and travel despite torrential rain. With chants of plans this year for something they all “Fight for freedom! Stand with Hong knew was more important than a trip Kong!” and “Hongkongers! Keep abroad. On June 9, 2019, a few days going!” our march pushed forward after the school year ended at Pingry, while a heavy monsoon poured. The hundreds of thousands of students scenes that played out that day deeply took to the streets of Hong Kong, on moved me. It was a powerful display a hot, humid afternoon. of resistance and perseverance from Why? ordinary Hongkongers against the Hong Kong, formerly a British abusive power of mainland China. colony, was handed back to China in For many Honglongers, what they 1997. As part of the handover, Hong hope can be achieved as a result of Kong was allowed to have “a high months of struggle can be perfectly degree of autonomy,” with the ability summed up in the lyrics of “Glory to to “enjoy executive, legislative, and Hong Kong,” which has become the independent judicial power” until anthem of the Hong Kong protests. 2047, when it would become fully The song grants hope: “We pledge, of 99.99%. Many Hongkongers I saw young student protestors, not The extradition bill would finally be integrated into China. no more tears on our land. In wrath were outraged by this extradition much older than myself, handing out withdrawn. It was too little, too late. However, since the handover, this doubts dispelled we make our stand. bill. They could no longer afford to sit flyers detailing the various instances Since the start of the protests, 2,000 autonomy has steadily eroded. As Arise! All ye who would not be slaves and watch their government appease of police brutality and the corruption people had been injured, 1,500 people seen in the last five years, with again: For Hong Kong, may Freedom Beijing’s hunger for power. of the Hong Kong government. Later from ages 12 to 75 had been arrested, the barring of six pro-democracy reign!” In early June, a summer of revolution that night, I watched on the news as and there are rumors that nearly 30 lawmakers from local elections, the There is still a long road ahead began. One million Hongkongers riot police stormed into the airport, protestors had died as a result of kidnapping of local booksellers by the and more months of struggle for the swarmed the streets, followed by two firing tear gas and rubber bullets into police brutality. Chinese government, and the arrests protesters. However, I, along with million the next week, all demanding large crowds of those students. Returning to Pingry, I found peace of prominent student activists, it has many other Hongkongers, hope that that the extradition bill be withdrawn. I was shocked. Why must these on campus. I saw students going become all too clear that mainland in the end, the struggle for freedom Despite this, Carrie Lam refused to students spend their valuable summer about their day without the burden of China had been encroaching on Hong will triumph. withdraw the bill. risking their lives, while we get to anxiety that comes from tyranny and Kong’s sovereignty. After a long July of violence, which spend our summer lounging on the oppression. In comparing the settings In March 2019, Carrie Lam, Hong saw protestors storm the Legislative beach or at home in peace? What is of my summer and my normal life, I Kong’s Chief Executive, proposed Council, innocent students viciously it that prompts an entire generation to realize just how valuable freedom is. a bill that would allow fugitives in attacked by triads in a suburban train rise up in open revolution? I am proud of the fact that I stood Hong Kong to be extradited back to station, and a young nurse providing The day school started, on September with Hong Kong in the fight for mainland China to stand trial in the first aid to protestors have her eye 4th, I heard the news that everyone in liberty this summer. In August, I Chinese judicial system, an opaque shot out by the police, I arrived in Hong Kong had longed to hear for the was part of the “Peaceful, Rational, legal system with a conviction rate Hong Kong. Arriving at the airport, last three months. and Nonviolent” march, organized

Liu On Looking Past the Surface HELEN LIU (V) The speaker at the podium––let’s are getting all caught up in drama I should’ve been angry. He was lying was young, and later he despised thanked me for being his friend. call him A––gave his speech, charged right now, and I don’t really straight to my face; he his body altogether. He was insecure So, even though A plagiarized and with emotion. I never knew he want to get involved.” broke his promise and about his English and had always lied, all I could do was hope that he could write like this, I thought, as She shut the door behind my already-wavering felt out of place. It wasn’t until high became more confident in himself. I clapped along with my friends at her, looked around, and school, he said, that he began I’m sure he knew what he was doing the particularly touching parts. I continued in a hushed to understand that was wrong—he was just too insecure he should to stop. After all, in class, didn’t know A that well—he was voice. “Did you know love himself he’d always jokingly-but-not-so- in a separate friend circle at that that A plagiarized his for jokingly deprecate his own work. point—but the works he shared in entire speech off The idea of showing it our summer writing class had always Youtube?” to other people, let been deeply personal. They were It was true. The word alone presenting sharp and honest declarations of his choice, the inflection it to an entire cultural identity and body image, in tone, the pauses every camp, must have but they had never been as carefully few sentences. A had copied been terrifying. I planned and brilliantly executed as almost every single thing. He couldn’t be angry this one. didn’t own up to it fully; when at him. Sure, I was Later that night, after everyone the truth caught up to him, a little disappointed, but finished presenting, my entire friend he claimed that he found the mostly, I felt bad for him. group crowded into one room and speech online in his native Taken without context, this seems started discussing all the orations language and had translated who ridiculous. Why would I feel bad for we’d heard. We loved Elijah’s speech, it. He apologized for plagiarizing h e someone who plagiarized, promised Annie’s story was beautiful, and A did and promised that he wouldn’t do was; in his he wouldn’t do it again, and then so well; did you know he could write it again. Yet a week later, when we words, he was “a broke that promise? like that? Those that had presented were sharing pieces for our class trust in star that shone and could help other I felt bad because that’s not all were congratulated, and those that anthology, he read a piece that one him as a friend. Though, with A, I people shine too.” who A was. I barely knew him, hadn’t yet were encouraged to do of my friends had previously shown realized I couldn’t even beannoyed. He would randomly compliment yet I could tell he was optimistic, so next week. This was a writer’s me online. After finishing, he looked One of the first pieces he had shared people in class and was always the cheerful, and the type of person workshop after all. Nobody would at me with a smile and said, “I spent in class was one he had written during first to declare with a grin that our who wanted to make those around judge us, as long as we did our best. a lot of time on this, taking inspiration a free-writing session. He talked writing was beautiful or that we were him happy, even while struggling There was a knock on the door from all different parts of my life. Did about his childhood as an immigrant the nicest people he’d ever met. The with his own happiness. To reduce and a classmate stepped in, looking you like it?” and the self-hatred that developed last night at the workshop, he hugged him to a plagiarizer—that would be frazzled. “Uh, hey, sorry, I didn’t want I smiled back, genuinely, but a little because of it. He wished he had me, urged me to stay in touch, and ridiculous. to bother you guys, but my friends sad. “Of course. It’s beautiful.” blonde hair and blue eyes when he

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Google Images, Noah Bergam (V) THE PINGRY RECORD SUMMER EXPERIENCES OCTOBER 25, 2019 7

Winterbottom Reaches New Heights in Iceland MAILE WINTERBOTTOM (V) would through-hike the Laugavegur trip, and every night we would go difficult uphills. My pack was heavy had pad thai for dinner and played trek, a fifty-mile trail popular among into a tent and talk for at least an with food for the group, my clothes cards, as we continued to bond with In the midst of some last-minute tourists in Iceland. I had never done hour about everything that happened for the next week, my tent, and my our group. scrambling to put my summer plans anything like it before. that day, and any other things that sleeping bag (weighing forty pounds The rest of the trip proved to be together last April, I quickly scrolled Although the nerves were sinking were on our mind. altogether!). As it turned out, the one of the most breathtaking and through possible programs and trips in, the girls that I had met just a day When we arrived at the start of forty pounds on my back didn’t formative experiences I’ve ever had. I could attend. I came across a I met so many different people from two week trip to Iceland held by different backgrounds and hearing Overland Summers, a program that their stories brought me to tears takes kids on trips led by college on several occasions. The trail was students. It was a backpacking tough, but it brought us together as trip, something I was interested in a group. Sometimes, completing undertaking, and I was up for the even the smallest obstacles, like challenge. So I clicked “register” crossing a river or making it to the and embarked on the journey. top of a steep hill, was so gratifying When the day came for me to for me. At the end of every day, leave, I was a nervous wreck. I when I would take off my pack and wondered what I got myself into. look back on the miles I just hiked, I thought my two years as an avid I thought of the songs I sang, the Pingry Outing Club participant stories I told and heard, and even the would prepare me for this, but as lunch I had, all the while thinking the trip grew closer, the thought of of how grateful I was to be in such strapping my belongings to my back a beautiful place. for two weeks in a foreign country My trip to Iceland left me feeling felt like something I could never do. humbled by the outdoors and Nevertheless, I hopped on the plane even more appreciative of our to Reykjavik (Iceland’s capital) with environment. In addition, I made my half broken-in hiking boots and some great bonds with the people on didn’t look back. my trip who I’m still in contact with. As soon as I met my group of nine The raw beauty of everything I saw other high school students and two along the way was incomparable to college students (who led the trip), anything I’ve ever seen and taught me more than I have ever learned in my anxiety that had built up over ago were already turning out to be the Laugavegur trek, my anxiety hold me back from having a great the classroom, with concrete walls the weeks prior seemed to dissipate. my close friends. We talked about for backpacking had returned, first day on the trail. The ten miles, and fluorescent lighting. It made me We settled down at a campsite in our lives back home, our concerns especially after our leaders told although difficult, left me feeling realize the importance of embracing Reykjavik on our first night and for the trip, how much we missed us that the first day would be the accomplished, and the views added nature and taking that leap into the prepared for the next week, which home, and so much more. There hardest day of the trip, with ten to my sense of achievement. When unknown. we would spend backpacking. We were four girls including me on the miles of ground to cover and many we got to the second campsite, we

E-ddicted: Using Tech Innovation to Combat Our Public Health my way down to lower Manhattan When heated, the base degrades to knowing it? Alternatively, how This prompted me to conceptualize EMMA HUANG (V) on the subway, I witnessed similar chemicals such as formaldehyde and many people would avoid heavily VapeEscape, a fixed air pollution situations occur. In each instance, benzene gas. These carcinogens are concentrated vape areas if they had sensor that works with a notification For six weeks this summer, I had the second-hand smoke affected released into the air when exhaled, the information accessible to them? system and interactive map that the opportunity to work in Cooper everyone. This made me think thereby making the effects of second- After a quick search, I was surprised allows users to detect vape aerosol Union’s Summer STEM Makerspace about that infant in the stroller, the hand smoke toxic to surrounding to find that in our home state of and cigarette smoke via a mobile app Program. Filled with 3-D printers, elderly man next to me, and all the people. More recent data indicates New Jersey, only two towns have that is iOS and Android compatible. I plasma laser cutters, and soldering pitched VapeEscape as my individual and circuit stations, the Makerspace project proposal and formed a team was an innovator’s dream – a place of four to help make my idea a where I could turn an idea into possible reality. For the next four a reality. Each day, I designed, weeks, my teammates and I spent coded, and prototyped. In addition countless hours troubleshooting to working in the Makerspace, code (in Arduino based C, Java, we participated in business and and Python languages), wiring our entrepreneurship workshops, which sensors to Arduino and Raspberry Pi included public speaking, a STEM circuits, and designing a sleek model career advice panel, and a Computer of VapeEscape in CAD. Though there Science and Ethics discussion group. were some hurdles to overcome– for We also received lessons on how example, a key sensor we ordered did to build circuits using Arduinos (a not arrive until a few days before our platform for building prototypes) final presentation– the hard-working and how to use OnShape (a CAD, or spirit of my team resulted in the computer aided design, software) to creation of a product we envisioned create 3-D models. We were tasked to as being instrumental in regulating identify a real-world problem, devise air safety in workplaces, hospitals, an invention which would address airports, schools, and restaurants, to it and then pitch our ideas. I set on name a few. developing a prototype to help solve The insight I gained from this a public health crisis we face. summer has been invaluable. From It was during my daily commute on working with the Cooper Union the train into New York City where I faculty to collaborating with peers of saw a recurring theme. While exiting people around who are susceptible that there have been over a dozen specific laws regulating the use of different backgrounds, I was excited Penn Station each day, clouds of vape to the effects of second-hand vape vaping-linked deaths and more than e-cigarettes in public areas (as of July to learn from and share ideas with a aerosol and cigarette smoke filled my aerosol and cigarette smoke. Even 800 vaping-related lung illnesses 2019), and vapes and e-cigarettes do diverse group of innovators. I’ve also line of sight. One morning, I even more, what about those who are across the country. Knowing the vast not fall under cigarette regulations. realized how much I value the role saw a mother hurriedly swerve her more vulnerable, like those with epidemic of vaping and realizing its With a vaping epidemic on the rise, of technology as a springboard to stroller away from the fumes and pulmonary and respiratory issues as negative health effects, I wondered: I wondered why a device or system benefit the greater society, especially turn her children’s heads away from common as asthma? how many people are inhaling which regulates vaping in public in tackling solutions to problems that the smoke. As I continued to navigate Vape juice contains a glycerin base. vape aerosol second-hand without areas doesn’t already exist. plague our communities. Photo Credits (Left to Right): Maile Winterbottom (V), Emma Huang (V) 8 THE PINGRY RECORD NEW FACULTY OCTOBER 25, 2019

BRIAN LI (IV) English: Mrs. Kelly Ross Inspired by her high school English teacher to pursue a Mrs. Kelly Ross will be welcomed by the Pingry community career in education, Mrs. Ross said that her combination this fall as she joins the Upper School English Department. of being an “engaging teacher,” yet also “having very high She will teach English 9, Creative Writing, and Shakespeare. standards” motivated and allowed her to become a better Mrs. Ross received her Arts in English bachelor’s degree reader and writer. In her senior year of college, she became a from Bucknell University. During her time at Bucknell, she also student-teacher and quickly realized that she loved teaching. completed the degree requirements for a Bachelor of Science She said, “If I could teach for free, I would. For me, it’s more in Education and minored in Italian. After she graduated, Mrs. than just a job; it’s a vocation.” Ross received her Master of Arts in English from Middlebury Mrs. Ross was drawn to Pingry by the school’s commitment College. to intellectual engagement. She remarked, after working with Before arriving at Pingry, Mrs. Ross taught at a couple of students from other schools, she was impressed by the students’ other schools, including Oak Knoll. She held a variety of passion for learning. “I really see that in the students. They’re roles in her previous positions: she served as a lacrosse, cross- spending their free time doing research and I see them going country, and track coach. She was the moderator for the school above and beyond what’s expected to engage intellectually and newspaper, the director for a program similar to the seniors’ that is a teacher’s dream come true.” As for her time here so ISP, and contributed to the diversity team. She also worked far, Mrs. Ross noted that she has already noticed the school’s skills they learn in English apply outside of the classroom. She as a tutor for students taking standardized tests and assisted mission of honor and integrity in the students and staff. “I feel also hopes to become more involved in the school community in general academic assignments. When asked what else she that those are principles that the school takes to heart … as a in the near future. had done before coming to Pingry, Mrs. Ross said that she has whole, the community is really engaged and that makes me Mrs. Ross is excited to join the community and meet been teaching for most of her career. “I’ve pretty much been feel like it’s a great place to be.” everybody on campus. “I feel the school is committed to the a teacher since I graduated from college, but I love teaching When asked about her goals for the school year, Mrs. Ross right values; I really enjoy my students so far, and I’m looking and I’m happy to be here,” she said. said that she wants to encourage her students to see how the forward to seeing how the rest of the year goes.” History: Mr. Saad Toor

ANDREW WONG (IV) an M.A. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Connecticut and a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in This year, the Upper School History Department welcomes History and Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Mr. Saad Toor, who will be teaching three sections of World Connecticut. History 9 and one section of World History 10. Mr. Toor taught college students at the University of Mr. Toor recently completed his second M.A. in South Asian Connecticut’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and Stanford Studies at Oxford University in the United Kingdom, where he Unviersity’s Bing Overseas Program. He also taught history was fortunate enough to be taught by important world leaders to high school students for two years in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia such as Hillary Clinton, the Prime Ministers of Kosovo and at an international school, and taught for two years in the Kenya, and many British ambassadors. In addition, he was a Connecticut public school system. classmate to politicians and important figures in the world, such Mr. Toor brings a unique global perspective from his studies as Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, and former in the UK and two years teaching in Saudi Arabia, and he Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. hopes that his “extensive global experience will inspire Pingry At Oxford, Mr. Toor studied the history of Pakistan and students to reach out of their comfort zone and go abroad to India under British colonization, as well as the geopolitical have life-changing experiences similar to what I did.” aftermath of decolonization that continues to affect the region Having lived in three different countries and two different states to this day. Outside of class, Mr. Toor played cricket for the in the last four years, Mr. Toor hopes that New Jersey will be a bring expertise on the histories and politics of the Middle East, Oxford Pakistan XI club team and Merton College club teams, new and welcoming home for him. He is especially interested Pakistan, and India to the classroom, and hopes that his students and trained with the Wolfson-Saint Cricket Club and Oxenford in Pingry’s Honor Code, and how it “inspires students to hold will be just as interested in history as he is. Cricket Club. Mr. Toor was also active in debate at Oxford, themselves to the standards of ‘Excellence and Honor’ and In his free time, Mr. Toor loves playing and watching cricket, and was fortunate enough to debate Gandhi’s grandson on the try new things in school.” He plans to try new things as well, and has written several commentaries on the sport. He is an Indian Partition. and intends to “learn all sorts of life lessons from [his] own avid Dallas sports fan, and loves watching UConn college Alongside his M.A. in South Asian Studies, Mr. Toor holds students” as they grow throughout the year. He is thrilled to basketball during March Madness. World Languages (French & Spanish): Mr. Kevin Schroedter JOSIE ALSTON (V) school. He has taught at a “long list” of schools all over the world, including London, Paris, Zermatt, California, Delaware, This fall, Pingry welcomes Mr. Kevin Schroedter to the Texas, and North Carolina. He describes teaching as a way to Middle and Upper School Language Departments. Mr. “stay immersed in the French world and earn a living” while Schroedter will teach French 2 in the Middle and Upper School, using professional development opportunities to “become a along with Spanish 2 and French 5 in the Upper School. He better teacher” and “connect with young people to make a will also be the assistant coach for the high school water polo difference.” and swim teams. Although it has only been a few months, Mr. Schroedter Born in Bogota, Colombia, Mr. Schroedter grew up immersed really enjoys Pingry, describing it as a “convivial environment” in the Spanish language and continued to speak it throughout where he can enjoy the support of his colleagues and get to his childhood after he relocated to Miami. However, Mr. know his students better. He acknowledges that Pingry can be exercise with his wife and Carolina dog/Australian cattle Schroedter fell in love with French, a language held in high a “high-pressure environment” at times; however, the school dog mix, Tasha. He spends a lot of time on a bike as a way esteem by his family, especially his grandfather, who served exudes an air of “humanity”, with enough “down moments in to “decompress”, and he enjoys going on walks in the park as a French professor for the Colombian military and as a the day to form human connections, which makes it motivating and on the beach with his family. A self-proclaimed foodie, military attaché in Paris. and both physically and emotionally possible to invest so much Mr. Schroedter loves finding new places to eat, citing “sitting Mr. Schroedter continued to pursue his passion at Duke in the academic part of things.” down with a book and cappuccino and watching the world go University where he earned his B.A. in Political Science and Mr. Schroedter has experience working at similar schools and by” as one of his favorite things to do. French, and Middlebury College where he earned his M.A. has set “finding [his] way, getting used to how things are done, Mr. Schroedter is looking forward to his first year at Pingry in French. adapting to expectations, and transitioning to the department” and he is ready to weather the challenges that come with being Mr. Schroedter is no stranger to teaching, as this year marks as his goals for his first year. a new teacher. his 28th year teaching French and Spanish at a day or boarding In his free time, Mr. Schroedter likes to stay active and

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Website THE PINGRY RECORD NEW FACULTY OCTOBER 25, 2019 9 History: Dr. Zachary Wakefield

EVA SCHILLER (V) Wakefield wants to try new methods and expand his horizons. As the new school year begins, Pingry is extremely fortunate “My goal for the school year is just to get out of my comfort to welcome Dr. Zachary Wakefield to the History Department. zone, teaching-wise, and maybe try more student-driven He attended Juniata College, where he earned a Bachelor’s activities,” he said. He would also like to attend a number of Degree in history. He then went on to earn his M.A. and Ph.D academic conferences. After his first month at Pingry, he is at Auburn University, both in history as well. Prior to joining optimistic: “The students are smart, and they keep me on my the Pingry community, he spent four years working as a history toes,” he said laughing. “They’re pushing me, which makes teacher and coach at a boarding school. for a really good classroom environment.” He also enjoys the At Pingry, Dr. Wakefield is teaching three World History 9 vibrant atmosphere, as well as the rural setting. “I love the area; classes and one AP US History Class, where he has already it reminds me of where I grew up,” he remarked. spearheaded some of his unique classroom practices. These In keeping with his passion for history, Dr. Wakefield’s include placing phones in a basket at the start of class, as well hobbies are quite worldly. When he’s not teaching, Dr. as taking paper notes instead of electronic notes. Wakefield loves being outdoors, whether that be hiking or When asked how these tactics benefitted the classroom going to the beach. He is also an avid reader and traveller. environment, it all came down to keeping students focused: Being a new teacher can be intimidating, but Dr. Wakefield “People have been conditioned to pick up their cell phones is ready to rise to the occasion. “Even though I’m starting at or check social media as soon as they get a notification,” he a new school, which is challenging, I’m going to try my best explained. “I get that, so rather than me getting upset and to grow as a teacher and achieve my goals,” he stated. Good disrupting class, I like to just take it out of the equation.” luck, Dr. Wakefield! In addition to the techniques he has brought with him, Dr. World Languages (Mandarin): Mr. Michael Wang ZOE WANG (V) friendly environment; it is like a home and like a family,” he said. His goal this year at Pingry is to get to know his students This fall, the Pingry community welcomed Mr. Michael well in order to better serve and adapt to their needs. Wang, who teaches Chinese 1, two sections of Chinese 3, and The one aspect of Pingry which really sticks out to Mr. Wang Chinese 6. In addition to teaching, Mr. Wang chaperones the is the teacher-student relations. In his interview he pointed out Middle School Homework Club. the constructive familiarity between teachers and students. This Mr. Wang graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the was a large factor in his decision to work at Pingry. The small Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Before greetings and interactions he saw were something he hadn’t coming to Pingry, he was a teacher at St. George’s School in seen in other schools. Newport, RI. He has taught Chinese for 18 years at all levels, Outside of school, Mr. Wang likes to exercise. He enjoys including AP. Besides teaching Chinese, Mr. Wang coached running, playing basketball with his youngest son, and soccer and was a dorm advisor. exploring new local areas. So far, Mr. Wang really enjoys Pingry. “Pingry is a very

Mathematics: Mr. Zhaojun Yong The Middle School: BROOKE PAN (V) difficulty with math-related problems. This informal service soon unveiled Mr. Yong’s passion for teaching and paved the The Upper School Mathematics Department welcomes Mr. New Faculty way for his future career. Zhaojun Yong, who will be teaching both Honors Geometry Mr. Yong started his educational career by working as a and Advanced Algebra and Geometry. Besides teaching, he substitute teacher. “The desire to want to help students and will also be coaching the boys’ freshman basketball team and Matthew (Matt) Composto ‘13, help others” was his main motivation for teaching. In the past, advising a club in the middle school. English Department he knew that many of his peers saw math as too difficult, and Mr. Yong is no stranger to New Jersey. Having grown up near they would, therefore, shy away from the subject. In hopes Rutgers, he is familiar with the Basking Ridge area. In his free of changing these perceptions, Mr. Yong strives to create time, he enjoys playing sports, mainly tennis and basketball. Lisa Hartmann, Math Department an atmosphere in his classes where “students do not feel “Sports, as well as running in general, are great ways to get discouraged,” and rather feel open and “accepting towards my mind off of school and academics,” he said. Mr. Yong is new challenges.” especially drawn to playing basketball, having been a member Haley Host, History Department At Pingry, Mr. Yong aspires to “help more high schoolers to of his high school basketball team. This experience played a not feel so intimidated by math.” He plans to achieve this by large role in his inclination to coach basketball at Pingry. “I’ve “helping prepare [students] as best as I can, in terms of what always loved playing basketball,” Mr. Yong said. “Especially Julia Martinez, History Department I know and what I can do.” Good luck, Mr. Yong! now that some of my students are also involved with the team, it creates another dimension towards them in terms of Cecily Moyer, Science Department understanding who they are.” Mr. Yong praises basketball for its ability to “allow kids to interact in a manner different from class settings.” With the season approaching, he is looking Guadalupe Núñez, Language forward to coaching the team. Prior to coming to Pingry, Mr. Yong attended college at Department NYU, where he majored in mathematics. He recently finished graduate school at Columbia University. There, he furthered Anupama Menon P ‘26, Computer his schooling in mathematics, earning his master’s degree in Mathematics Education. Science During his time at college, he often served as an informal tutor for his fellow peers; he helped them whenever they had

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Website 10 THE PINGRY RECORD NEW FACULTY OCTOBER 25, 2019 World Languages (Chinese): Ms. Yifan Xu MAILE WINTERBOTTOM (V) Her inspiration for teaching comes from a passion The Pingry community welcomes Ms. Yifan Xu this for spreading knowledge. “Every time I can see the fall as a teacher of Middle and Upper School Chinese. excitement and curiosity in the students’ eyes, that She will be teaching levels 1A, 1B, and Chinese 2 in motivates me to be a teacher.” the Upper School. She has two years of prior teaching Ms. Xu is a dedicated teacher with many objectives experience before coming to Pingry, having taught for her students. She has been impressed and is Chinese at an all-girls boarding school in Virginia. excited by her students thus far, saying that, “They Ms. Xu received her B.A from Beijing Language and are very creative and engaged in learning.” Her main Culture University, majoring in teaching Chinese as goals at Pingry this year are to develop a positive a foreign language. She went on to study at SUNY environment in her classroom and make sure her Binghamton where she received her M.A in Asian students progress as Chinese speakers. “I want to Studies. build positive student-teacher relationships,” she Ms. Xu loves the Pingry community so far, remarked. explaining how other teachers have welcomed Outside of Pingry, Ms. Xu currently lives in New her with open arms. “The faculty here are all very Brunswick and enjoys hiking, as well as cooking and dedicated to their work and have a passion for K-Pop. On the weekends, she is always up for viewing teaching.” She said, “They are all very supportive of a good horror movie. We wish Ms. Xu good luck on me as a young teacher.” achieving her goals! Mathematics: Ms. Alexandra Lasevich RHEA KAPUR (V) Ms. Alexandra Lasevich joins Pingry this fall as the at my first school, I didn’t speak English. They realized working on her dissertation. But she also loves to new Math Department Chair. She also teaches Advanced very quickly that my math was more advanced than that garden; it’s one of her favorite things to do. Currently, Algebra and Trigonometry, both regular and honors, as of the average American student, so they asked me to she’s experimenting with new plants, growing from well as Precalculus. tutor.” seeds and learning how to care for her newly fruiting After earning a B.A. in Mathematics from the University “At first, I looked at it more as a source of income, but fruit trees. of Rochester, Ms. Lasevich went on to receive an M.S. in people were coming in, and all of a sudden there were Educational Leadership at Delaware Valley University. lines and lines of people,” she said. “They kept saying, She is currently working on her dissertation for an EdD ‘You should teach, you should teach, you’re good at it!’ from Delaware Valley University and aims to defend So I switched to pure mathematics––I hadn’t yet decided it this summer. Her research focuses on international to teach, though––and pursued theoretical mathematics faculty teaching in independent schools and examines for some time, until the end of my senior year, when I how they are adjusting to teaching in schools they never decided to get my certification.” attended. Ms. Lasevich herself was born and raised in In addition to teaching mathematics, Ms. Lasevich also Russia, and she notes how interesting it has been for her advises Middle School Homework Club and plans to to come to America and experience a different style of help out the Russian Literature Humanities Independent education. Research Team with understanding the meanings and Prior to coming to Pingry, Ms. Lasevich taught math at cultural context behind the various Russian names. Princeton Day School and was a part of the Community “I want to not get lost this year. It’s confusing, but I and Multicultural Development Team. She also led a think I’m OK now with the corridors,” Ms. Lasevich number of student organizations: two affinity groups joked. But, in all seriousness, she hopes to get to know (the LGBTQ affinity group and the Jewish affinity the school, the school culture, and the Math Department group), GLOW (similar to Pingry’s GSA), SAFE (a better, and just observe and learn. diversity group), and a Russian Club. “I love it here,” she said. “I think it is an amazing When asked to detail her path to teaching, Ms. place to work. And from what I see, it seems to be an Lasevich said “When I came to this country, I was amazing place to be a student.” studying to be a computer engineer. And when I arrived Ms. Lasevich spends quite a bit of her free time Drama (Production Designer): Mr. Joseph Napolitano ASHLEIGH PROVOOST (IV) have been wonderful!” he remarks. “I’m extremely initiatives industry-wide,” which promote recycling grateful for the drama department faculty and staff. I and sustainability in the Broadway community. Mr. Joseph Napolitano is thrilled to join the Pingry could not have asked for a better team to be a part of.” He is incredibly excited to getting to know the faculty as a teacher as well as a set designer. He will be Mr. Napolitano is currently working with part of the community in the upcoming year! Welcome, Mr. co-teaching sections of the Scenic Costume and Design Student Tech and Design Crew for this year’s fall play, Napolitano! course this year, and has already been named Head Our Town. He has really enjoyed working with these Set Designer for all of Pingry’s drama productions. students so far, stating, “I’m most grateful to have In addition to designing, he plans to assist in set witnessed moments of brilliance amongst our theatre construction, as well as tackle various other aspects design/tech crew students in the shop.” of Pingry Drama, ranging from ticketing services One goal he has for this year is to educate his students to environmental graphic upgrades and marketing about the different areas of production design and initiatives. hopefully spread his passion to aspiring designers. Before joining Pingry, Mr. Napolitano attended Another goal is to “draw parallels to adjacent areas of Rowan University. After graduating, he worked on study [e.g., architecture, thematic design, technology, design. “[I] collaborated with a variety of organizations etc.] and identify specific skills that are used not only in and universities on creative placemaking, experience theatre-making, but in many other disciplines as well.” design projects, large-scale public art, and production Outside of Pingry, Mr. Napolitano designs design for theatre and television,” he mentioned. He’s professional productions, including Into the Woods, also taught design workshops and classes and really Urinetown, and other productions both on and off enjoyed the experience, which is one of the reasons he Broadway,f and has won multiple awards for his wanted to teach at Pingry. “[They] inspired me to seek designs. out further opportunities for sharing my knowledge of He also is passionate about sustainability in his process,” he recalled. profession, and enjoys working with the charitable So far, Mr. Napolitano enjoys being a part of the organization Broadway Green Alliance. With this Pingry community. “My experiences thus far at Pingry organization, he works “on multiple sustainable

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Website THE PINGRY RECORD NEW FACULTY OCTOBER 25, 2019 11 World Languages (German): Dr. Igor Jasinski CALLIE MAHONEY (V) private and public, including William-Cullen Herr Igor Jasinski is back! This year, he will Bryant High School and Scotch Plains-Fanwood be teaching a variety of both Upper and Middle High School for German and/or Philosophy. School courses: German I, German III and Herr Jasinski began at Pingry in 2009 and taught IV for high schoolers, and German IA for the classes here for five years before deciding to take sixth graders. He is also a faculty advisor of a sabbatical in 2014; he enrolled in a Montclair- the Polyglot magazine, and a Middle School based EdD, or Doctorate of Education, program Homework Club proctor. in Pedagogy and Philosophy. To write his Herr Jasinski grew up in a small town in dissertation, he moved to a city on the coast of Germany outside of Düsseldorf, and later went Mexico, Puerto Escondido. While he was there, to the University of Düsseldorf, earning his he received and accepted his first book offer. Grundstudium (bachelor’s) degree in Philosophy Giorgio Agamben: Education without Ends was and German Literature and Linguistics. From published at the end of 2018. there, he received his Hauptstudium (graduate) After publishing his book, Herr Jasinski decided degree from the University of Tubingham in that it was time to get back to teaching, scouring Philosophy and Modern German Literature. He the U.S. for available jobs. Luckily for us, he was then participated in graduate studies, including able to come back and teach at Pingry. Though he a Ph.D. program in Philosophy at Stony Brook admits he does not have a lot of free time, Herr University in New York, earning an MA in the something he really loved: “It’s hard to quantify Jasinski loves to run, Salsa dance, and do yoga. subject. it, but it was interacting with the students that felt He is also hoping to start a Philosophy Club here Herr Jasinski’s teaching career began at Bergen great… How you create a community, and the at Pingry this year, and maybe even propose a County Academies, shortly after finishing his feeling you get when it works and you’ve created course on the subject. “Teaching philosophy to Ph.D program. He had never taught before, a curiosity and openness in a student, I feel like young people is a real passion of mine,” he says. but he says that even during his interview for I connected with that.” After Bergen County, We wish him the best of luck this year, and are the position, he could tell that teaching was Jasinski taught at a variety of schools, both excited to have him back! School News: Pingry Installs Second Gender Neutral Friday Night Lights Bathroom on Campus Wows the Community ASHLEIGHT PROVOOST (IV) Prior to this school year, there were no bathrooms on campus specifically labelled as Over the summer, Pingry installed a gender gender neutral. With the help of faculty and neutral restroom in the athletics wing. This staff, GSA worked to make this bathroom a was a big step forward for Pingry and its reality. Now, it is available to students who continued advocacy for a more inclusive feel more comfortable using a bathroom school community; this engagement has facility that ensures privacy and security, as provided a bathroom that allows privacy well as the entire community. Implementing for all who choose to use it. It ensures a the bathroom is an important step towards safe space for people who may not feel Pingry’s continued commitment to diversity comfortable using cisgender bathrooms and and acceptance of all. upholds Pingry’s values of acceptance and Gender neutral bathrooms are extremely ZOE WANG (IV) inclusion. important to the community at large, and “The GSA was heavily involved in the Pingry’s accommodation of people of all This year’s annual PSPA Friday Night Lights planning process,” said Sarah Gagliardi identifiers allows for a safer environment took place on September 27, as hundreds of (IV), one of the student leaders of GSA. that embraces all people. students, families, and faculty from the Lower, “They talked to the Head of School and Middle, and Upper Schools came together to collaborated with [faculty and staff].” The support the Big Blue’s football team. GSA, or Gender Sexuality Alliance, is a The evening began with the community club at Pingry that promotes acceptance gathered around the tent to enjoy pizza, pasta, of all people regardless of their identifiers. and mozzarella sticks while keeping warm with The goal of GSA is to create a welcoming hot chocolate and apple cider. Along with the community at Pingry in which members and food and drinks, teddy bears of a variety of allies of the LGBTQ+ community can feel colors were handed out to everyone. safe. Members of GSA brainstormed ideas Although the team lost 34-0 to Long Island to make the community more inclusive, Lutheran, the energy from the stands was and having the new bathroom available for unbeatable. “Despite the loss, I really enjoyed the entire community is a true testament to FNL, and the enthusiasm of the crowd was the commitment of past and present GSA members and leaders. great,” Katherine Xie (IV) said. Form VI The new bathroom aligns both Pingry and students were especially energized, cheering GSA values. “By expanding the amount of on their fellow seniors with large cardboard inclusive bathrooms, it creates a safer and cutouts of the players. They also started chants more welcoming environment for students for the crowd to follow. and faculty, where they feel that they’re Big Blue may have lost this game, but the spirit accepted,” noted Gagliardi (IV). from the community was never diminished.

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Website, Pingry Communincations 12 THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS OCTOBER 25, 2019 2019 Fall Awards Assembly Celebrates Last Year’s Accomplishments

LAUREN TAYLOR (VI) tied for first and received the On behalf of The Justin Society, Ms. Scholarship Prize for their Form Taylor of the English Department On Friday, September 20, II GPAs. announced the winners of the the Upper School gathered in Next, seniors who excelled annual writing competition. Writers Hauser Auditorium to celebrate in math and science were given submitted their entries last spring, LOGO BY KYRA LI (III) students who displayed exceptional various awards from the respective which were then reviewed by the academic effort and achievement in departments. These awards included English Department. During the the 2018-2019 school year. the Rensselaer Mathematics and assembly, writers and poets from CARTOONS BY MIA SHUM (V) The ceremony began by Science Award, as well as the Form every grade received awards and recognizing the Form VI students V Whitlock Prize for Math. honorable mentions for their works who were honored by the National Following tradition, Mr. Levinson of creative writing, poetry, historical Merit Scholarship Program for their presented the college book awards. fiction, and more. scores on last year’s PSAT/NMSQT Each award is presented to the The assembly is a celebration of exam. This year, twenty-two Pingry member of the senior class who student achievement, effort, and students were named National best embodies the qualities and dedication. It serves as a reminder Merit Commended Students, values of the particular college of the effort that each Pingry student while an additional three students named. Brown, Columbia, Cornell, and faculty member puts into school were honored by the National Dartmouth, Mount Holyoke, Penn, every day. The Pingry community Hispanic Recognition Program. Princeton, Smith, Wellesley, congratulates all of the students Seniors Stuart Clark, Anjali Kapoor, Williams, and Yale were the honored at the ceremony, and looks Ashna Kumar, Brian Li, Ashley colleges represented this year for forward to another year of inspiring Lu, Collin Wen, and Robert Yu a total of eleven awards. achievement. were recognized as National Merit Semifinalists and given the chance to advance and potentially become finalists in the spring. Following these recognitions, Upper School Director Ms. Chatterji presented the Citizenship Prize, which is given to one student in each grade who best embodies the spirit of the Honor Code. Next, the Faculty Prize was awarded to students who showed commendable effort and commitment during the past academic year. Finally, Ms. Chatterji presented the Scholarship Prize to the student(s) in each grade with the highest academic GPA. Notably, seven current freshmen

Crossword: Places in Pingry

BY CALEB PARK (III)

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Communications, Pingry Communications THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS OCTOBER 25, 2019 13 Taiko Drumming: An Interview with MARTINE BIGOS (IV) Mr. Leone During morning meeting on was a music minor so one of the disclosure and consent. I also try and September 23rd, Pingry’s Taiko requirements was to take some find pieces that are fun to play and Drumming Club performed music electives. Because we had to watch! ‘Dokokara’ is a challenging “Dokokara,” a composition written do a field study, the professor told us piece, but some of our members need by the principal of the LA Taiko about a Japanese Taiko drumming a good challenge. The piece should Institute in the 2010s. group in Philadelphia. I was blown be accessible for any Taiko members Three years ago, Pingry’s former away. About a week later, I saw them that are relatively new.” headmaster suggested that Mr. Leone again and someone at TCNJ told me What is the process for preparing should host a workshop about taiko that they were thinking of starting a a Taiko performance? drumming. Twelve students and Taiko group. I never thought I’d hear “Learning the piece and getting faculty attended. A few months later, from them again, but I did! At the everyone comfortable is important. Pingry’s newly established taiko first practice, I was terrible! Three I believe very strongly in making group put on their first performance sessions turned into five, which sure that everyone is confident at the Taste of Pingry event, and turned into eight, and we had our first with what they’re doing before Pingry Taiko Drumming became an performance. I wrote a piece for the they go on stage. I try to fit in as official club. Since then, Taiko has group because the Asian American much practice time as possible and performed at several school-wide Association had a cultural show in encourage students to practice on events, including: A Taste of Pingry, the spring where we debuted. From their own. Members have asked to Convocation Focuses on the Lunar New Year Assembly, Night there TCNJ Taiko was born and is rehearse outside of regular practice, of Noise, and more. still going today. They’re on their which is easy since we can set up a Slowing Down Mr. Leone was interviewed after twelfth year there!” drum in a practice room. We have is distinguished for 60 years as a the morning meeting performance How do you select a piece for the to make sure that practices are low CAMILLE COLLINS (III) faculty member. He began his time at on September 23rd, and below are club to perform? pressure. Some of the performances For Pingry, convocation welcomes Pingry as a biology teacher in 1959. excerpts of that conversation. “I try and find things that are open can feel high pressure, but only if a new student body and ushers in a Student Body President, Brian Li How long have you been involved source or pieces that are copyleft. you let it. Performing in front of the new year of thought, achievement, (VI); Board of Trustees Chair, Mr. with Taiko? Copyleft means that it’s open to use, whole school is one of the bigger and education, along with the Jeffrey Edwards ‘78, P ‘12, P ‘14, P “I have been playing for about ten but whatever you produce has to be audiences I’ve performed for. The celebration of the Honor Code that ‘18; and Head of School, Mr. Matt years. I got introduced to Taiko released copyleft. This is a little Pingry community is supportive and is held in such high esteem. Levinson were among the speakers through a global music class. I tricky for us because there’s a lot of energetic, so I feel zero pressure.” Convocation opened with the at Convocation. Emily Sanchez (VI), signing of the Honor Code, written Honor Board Chair, spoke of the by Pingry students in 1926. The Honor Code’s use as an identifier for signing of the Honor Code reminds every student and faculty member in the community about the promises Pingry. “Everybody is able to grow they made to be honorable and into themselves and not be afraid to contribute “to the larger community take the necessary risks,” she says. of the world,” as the Honor Code Similar messages of acceptance and says. When all members of the growing from failure were shared by Pingry community sign the Honor speakers throughout the ceremony. Code, the school becomes a more Hopefully, as the year gets tightly-knit community that is bound underway, Convocation will remind by a single contract. students, faculty, and staff to always During Convocation, a number fulfill the Honor Code and simply of speeches were given to formally slow down. In the words of Mr. begin the 2019-2020 school year. Mr. Levinson, “Take a moment to hit the Miller Bugliari ‘52, Head Coach of brakes on whatever you are doing… the Boys’ Varsity Soccer Team and [and] think about your classmates Special Assistant to the Headmaster, and your role in the community.”

New Transitions: Drzala Begins her Year in Jordan

EMMA DRZALA (IV) catch the next flight home. I always self. I had moments where I closed managed to find myself alone in my eyes, and when I opened them, my room, wishing I could be in a I was hit with the reality that I was On the 21st of August, I started a comfortable environment with a in Jordan. My life was a dream journey that would leave a lasting school I knew, friends I knew, and that most people think about, but impact for the rest of my life. As I a life I knew. never get the opportunity to do. crossed the threshold to enter the As the days went on, however, Even on weekend trips to the mall, plane, I felt panic and reluctance I found myself growing into a I looked outside and savored every coursing through my body. I found routine, and my life seemed more view that ran along as the bus was my seat and felt my eyes getting manageable. Nevertheless, I still zooming. My friends were pointing heavier. The next thing I remember longed for my own bed and my out camels and sand dunes, and I was looking out the window and dogs running up to me as I got was finally beginning to process seeing desert stretch for miles; home. not being in New Jersey. after a summer of anticipation and After the second week ended, I Even after a month of being here, I an 11-hour flight, I finally landed felt something new brewing inside still think about my home and what in Amman, Jordan. me. It was the same excitement I would be happening if I were in The first days felt relaxed; my felt when I first saw the campus the comforts of Pingry. Though, mother was there to comfort me and and I finally started to feel as whenever I find myself drawing I knew that the rest of my family though I belonged. More kids closer to that thought, I am always and friends were only a phone call took an interest in me and teachers reminded of the golden opportunity away. After the third day, I finally were commending my bravery I have been given and am reassured walked into King’s Academy with for leaving home and moving that I made the best decision by a clear head and an excitement that somewhere new—the school didn’t coming here. The transition was had never been matched in my life. seem as daunting anymore. difficult, but already the trips to The first week felt like I had I was reminded of why I came the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi already been there for a year, and to the Middle East and I began to Rum have made all my sacrifices I was convinced that I needed to revert back to my outgoing, happy in coming here worth it.

Photo Credits (Left to Right): Pingry Communications, Pingry Communications, Emma Drzala (IV) 14 THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS OCTOBER 25, 2019

Seniors Relax at Pocono Valley Resort

MARTHA LEWAND (VI)

A week before school began, on September 3rd and 4th, Form VI students traveled to the Pocono Valley Resort in Reeders, Pennsylvania, for their senior retreat. The seniors spent the trip participating in several activities, including a Western-themed dance, and working on their college applications. The goal of the trip was for the seniors to enjoy themselves while making progress on their applications. Once the seniors arrived to the campsite via bus, they went to their assigned cabins to unpack. Shortly after, the activities commenced. Students went to relax by one of the two pools or to play sports, ranging from basketball to mini- golf. Students also had the choice to participate in watersports on the lake, climb a rock climbing wall, partake in a ropes course, ride a zipline, and more. flannels, cowboy boots and hats, that it helped me forget about all exercise to help students with their “But after I talked to both my “I went on the ropes course, rode and bandanas. the college apps and let me focus personal statement essay. In the college counselor and others about the zipline, and competed with “The dance was a fun way to on just hanging out and talking to second workshop, Mr. Lear, Mr. my issues pertaining to the process, my friends in the ‘human hamster jumpstart senior year,” Nicole my friends,” Thomas Wolf (VI) Garrow and Ms. Cooperman split I felt a lot more comfortable.” balls’,” said Jessica Hutt (VI). “I Gilbert (VI) said. “It was a great said. “I appreciated that, even the group into smaller sections to After working on their really enjoyed these activities, opportunity to reconnect with my though I didn’t request some of the converse about the application applications, seniors had lunch, and had a great time experiencing friends and strengthen relationships people in my cabin, they were great process and colleges that are packed their bags, and made their the outdoors with my classmates with other people. Dressing up also company and I enjoyed the night.” typically undervalued by Pingry way back to Pingry on buses. before heading into our final year added to the fun.” The next morning, the academic students. Hannah Guglin (VI) thought together.” After the dance, seniors enjoyed work began. After breakfast, the Josh Thau (VI) found the the trip was an overall success. “I After lunch and activities, the pizza and a campfire with s’mores. senior class was divided into two workshops helpful, as the sessions honestly felt like it was a really seniors began to prepare for the They also had time to socialize groups to partake in “breakout increased his confidence in the good way to start the year, spend dance. The theme for the dance with friends in their cabins before sessions” or workshops. Ms. college process. He said, “Before some time and have some fun with was “western.” Students dressed the night ended. Finegan and Ms. Reynolds each I went in, I was nervous about people that I care about in our last up as cowboys and cowgirls, with a “I felt that being able to spend the ran one of the two workshops. everything because I didn’t really year together,” she said. majority of the costumes including night with my friends was great, in They used a descriptive writing know what I was doing,” he said.

Freshmen Kick Off High School at Peer Leadership Retreat

MIRIKA JAMBUDI (III) silly outfits definitely left everyone in a great mood for the rest of the Bright and early on August 28th, evening. just a few days before the start of The next morning, everyone the school year, Pingry welcomed woke up to pack and wrap up the its newest class of freshmen on peer leadership retreat. Finally, the campus for the longstanding most awaited event occurred–– tradition of the peer leadership testing out our chariots on the retreat. Alongside their senior obstacle course. Our group took peer group leaders, nervous but an unforgettable, unconventional excited freshmen crammed into route, which the other students four buses for the long two-hour found hilarious. The fun-filled drive to Bryn Mawr Mountain day-and-a-half at Brynn Mawr Retreat, in the scenic mountains had flown by, and it was time to of Pennsylvania. There, they leave, but not before discussing the undertook team-bonding exercises students’ favorite parts of the trip. and activities to help them get For my group, our unconventional acquainted with their peers. attempt at the chariot race obstacle When the buses arrived at Bryn course was definitely one of the best Mawr, the freshmen were led to parts about the retreat, alongside all their cabins to unpack and get ready peer leaders to create a chariot from first activity, it was really fun to freshman by running out onto the the friends we made. “It was a great for the activities awaiting them. cardboard and PVC pipes to carry do, and our group definitely grew dance floor in costumes. “Everyone experience, and I’m glad I got to The first challenge was the egg one freshman through an obstacle closer,” said Max Watzky (III). being together on the dance floor meet tons of people right before drop, where peer groups of six course the next day. Everyone aimed to complete the and having fun right before school school started! Now I’m more to eight students and two seniors The next challenge was an course in the lowest amount of started was definitely a great way to confident about starting at a new worked together to create a obstacle course in the woods time, and the competitive nature kick off the school year!” Milenka school,” said Katie Lin (III). All in structure that would be able to nicknamed “The Gauntlet”; it of the challenge fostered a sense Men (III) recalled. all, the freshmen had a blast at the protect the egg when dropped featured a series of obstacles that of camaraderie in each peer group. At the end of the day, groups came peer leadership retreat, found some from above. Each group then involved physical act-ivity, logical The most memorable part of the up with skits using silly objects new friends, and are ready to take made a banner representing their thinking, and teamwork. night was during the impromptu chosen from a bag. Watching the on the upcoming school year! peer group pride. The students also “The Gauntlet really challenged dance in the dining hall when skits and seeing classmates take worked with each other and their us to work to-gether, and after the all the peer leaders surprised the the stage in

Photo Credits (Top to Bottom): Pingry Communications, Pingry Communications THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS OCTOBER 25, 2019 15

Form V Floats Into School Year faculty were fitted for lifejackets. “The most fun part of the rafting the rafting was over. Students and Sandy Friedman (V) remarked, DEAN KOENIG (V) Once everyone was ready to was probably splashing people faculty were bussed back to the “The retreat made me feel closer to raft, students boarded buses once with buckets of water.” lunch location to retrieve their a lot of my classmates.” The Form V class spent their again and were driven to the river. Though the students enjoyed belongings before the coach busses Overall, it was an exciting way opening to the school year at the Although the original plan was for themselves, paddling took a great took them back to school. The for students to reconvene before Lehigh River to go whitewater advisory groups to raft together, deal of energy and most were buses arrived at Pingry at around classes began. rafting. Since the junior class students were able to join the raft ready to head home by the time 7:00 P.M. travelled to Philadelphia in they wished to be in as long as there previous years for their back-to- were no more than seven people in school trips, this trip was a surprise it. Each raft was provided with a to students. bucket, which was supposed to be The grade was reunited from used to remove water from the raft. summer break at 8:30 a.m. in the Aided by river guides, students dining center. From there, the and faculty began to make their students split into their advisory way down the river. Soon enough, groups and boarded coach buses. the rafts encountered the first wave When the buses arrived at the of class II rapids. Students and site, students got off and ate their faculty soon got splashed, or even packaged lunches on picnic tables, submerged. already surrounded by nature. As Along the way down the river, they ate, the juniors shared stories the river guides offered the rafters of their summers and discussed the three opportunities to exit their upcoming school year. rafts and swim in shallow water. After lunch, students and faculty During this time, students had fun listened in on a brief presentation in the water, splashing each other given by the Pocono Whitewater and climbing into other boats with Company. The presentation laid their friends. “The battles between down guidelines for the experience the raft crews on the river were to come, such as safety regulations epic,” Dr. James Murray said. Even and paddling recommendations. some river guides got in on the During the lecture, students and action. Ethan Mannello (V) said,

Camp Mason, Philly, D.C.: The Sophomores Visit NYC

KATHERINE XIE (IV) they entered the packed theater The Middle School Trips and sat with their advisories as they awaited the start. On Wednesday, September 4, the “To Kill a Mockingbird,” based class of 2022 explored the exhibits on the eponymous 1960 novel by of New York City’s Museum of Harper Lee, deals with racial issues Natural History and went to see prevalent in Alabama during the the award-winning “To Kill a 1930s. The story’s main focus is the Mockingbird” on Broadway. trial of Tom Robinson, a black man The day began in the school who is falsely accused of raping cafeteria where students caught up Mayella Ewell, a white woman. with friends after a fleeting three While the book begins by months of summer break. The depicting the idyllic childhood of sophomores then crowded onto characters Jem, Scout, and Dill, three buses to make the trip to the the play, narrated by the children, city. After an hour-and-a-half bus immediately jumps into the trial ride, everyone divided into their of Tom Robinson. Atticus Finch advisories and entered the Museum (played by Jeff Daniels), Tom of Natural History. Robinson’s lawyer, must stand Upon entering the museum, up to the racial prejudices of that advisory groups went their separate time to do what is right. Through ALEX WONG (I) their middle school experience. in Washington, D.C., where they ways to tour the various exhibits the trial, Scout learns about what Form I went to Philadelphia saw the Lincoln Memorial, the and displays. Since there was no it means to become an adult—she From September 25th to 27th, from September 26th to 27th. Washington Monument, the specific activity planned for the observes her father doing the right Middle School students embarked They visited many sites and Arlington National Cemetery, and museum, each advisory had the thing by defending Tom Robinson, on trips to destinations ranging from interactive centers, including the National Mall. Visiting the liberty to choose the exhibits they despite the sacrifice he makes to the nation’s capital to right here in Independence Hall, the Liberty sites helped students gain a better wanted to see. The Museum of do so. New Jersey. In the process, students Bell, the Constitution Center, the understanding of their historical Natural History had everything The students enjoyed the play, were able to get a glimpse into what Philadelphia Zoo, the U.S. Mint, significance. Along with learning from displays of prehistoric animals which provided a different and they will learn this year and The Franklin Institute. Students about the various monuments and to diagrams of the early universe to new portrayal of this well-known Grade six traveled to Camp saw a wide variety of exhibits memorials, Charlotte Diemar (II) exhibits on early civilizations. classic. Many students had never Mason, a campsite in northern New relating to topics ranging from said, “I enjoyed the trip because Although students only spent a seen a Broadway show before Jersey, for three days. There, they the United States government to we got to connect more with our little over an hour at the museum, and appreciated the opportunity. engaged in team building activities, the human heart. Ben Chung (I) advisory via multiple activities, Anika Govil (IV) says, “Visiting Zoe Wang (IV) said, “Going to including hiking, swinging on said, “The Brain Exhibit in the such as the advisory dinner.” On the museum was a really fun see ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ was giant swings, looking at nature Franklin Institute was fun. My the trip, students bonded with experience. I got to spend time truly memorable. The actor for art, and completing an obstacle advisory played tag in the brain both old and new friends, while with my advisory and learn about Atticus Finch was just amazing.” course. These activities allowed the model.” Ms. Cecily Moyer noted, learning about the rich history of animals that I didn’t even know Remarking on the interesting style sixth graders to get to know each “I really enjoyed the Constitution Washington, D.C. existed.” Students were able to of the play, Olivia Hung (IV) noted, other better. Mrs. Nicole Cabral Center. My advisory was very into The Middle Schoolers enjoyed learn about all things history as well “I truly enjoyed the show…It was recalled, “We had a great time the exhibits there. We played trivia their trips, as they made new as enjoy time with their advisories. an interesting way to tell the story.” even though it rained. Even when it and shook hands with the statues friends, learned about historical After a quick lunch outside the After the performance and an rained everyone participated in the in Signers’ Hall.” The Philadelphia sites and figures, or simply had fun museum, the buses started up once amazing day spent in the city, the activities. We made great memories trip was an enjoyable, informative with their classmates and teachers. more and took the sophomores sophomores boarded the buses to during the trip.” The trip was an experience for the seventh grade. In other words, the trips certainly to see “To Kill a Mockingbird.” head back to Pingry. exciting and memorable start to For three days, Form II stayed set a positive tone for the year. Students were given tickets as Photo Credits (Top to Bottom): Pingry Communications, Pingry Communications, Emma Drzala Page 16 port Volume CXlV, Number I S The Pingry School, Basking Ridge, New JerseyS oCtober 25, 2019 By Matt Lee (VI), Dean Koenig work this season, as they and Lynn Robinson, and (V), Carolyn Coyne (V), Asha- won the sectional title last second doubles, Sabrina na Makhija (VI), Brian Li (IV), year. With great confidence Schneider and Olivia Gal- Brooke Pan (V), Burke Pagano in her team, Olivia Volpe lucci, went on to indi- (VI), Justin Li (V) (V) says, “We are begin- vidually win their county ning to hit our stride and we matches. BOYS’ SOCCER all know this year is going Although the team 10-3 to be special.” works hard, Lily Schiffman (VI) described the positive The boys’ soccer team FIELD HOCKEY atmosphere on the team: started the first month of 8-8-1 “Even though girls tennis their season strong. Ranked Big Blue field hockey can get very competitive, as the third-best team in the is off to a strong start this we’ve been able to come state, their expectations are year, with senior captains together as a team and sup- sky-high. With goals to win Hannah Dillon (VI), Liv port each other throughout Somerset County and Non- Nugent (VI), and Caroline the season.” Public “A” state titles, the Dannenbaum (VI) leading The girls’ team has a few team’s mentality this year the team to unprecedented weeks left in their season, has been “championship or victories in a difficult divi- as they hope to continue bust” since the first day of sion. Dillon believes that their success in the state preseason. tournament. “The Pingry soccer pro- the team is “looking really gram has the goal of win- strong going into tourna- GIRLS’ CROSS William Bugliarli (VI), Pranav Jha (VI) Photo by Bruce Morrison ment season,” especially ning County’s and State’s COUNTRY each girl a chance to re- reaching the top five teams In spite of these obsta- every year,” captain John in terms of passing. Nugent agrees, claiming that the cover,” will enable each of the Skyland Conference. cles, the water polo team, Robertson (VI) said. The girls’ cross country runner to achieve her goals. now co-coached by Jef- Although these are high “team culture is better than team is looking forward to FOOTBALL ever.” Senior player Lizzie The boys’ cross country frey Jenkins, Steve Droste, standards, he knows that “if a promising season. Led team is hoping to repeat 2-4 and Kevin Schroedter, has we can go five or six games Gilfillan (VI) adds that be- by captains Nicole Vanasse ing this “tight-knit family their successes from last The boys’ varsity foot- maintained a 5-2 record in a row without conceding (VI) and Alina Irvine (V), year. and, more importantly, has a goal, and the offense can off the field translates onto the team is off to a great ball team has started off the field with our passing their season with a rela- shown tremendous resil- do its job, the wins will start with the varsity team BOYS’ CROSS ience. The captains, goalies come.” connection.” This strength placing third overall in the tively strong record. The in passing has been devel- COUNTRY team has been working hard Mason Stahl (VI) and Dilan Pingry currently has a Ocean State Invitational. Bhat (VI), have stepped up 10-3 record and looks to oped by the new varsity The team’s main goal for Despite losing four se- since the start of preseason head coach, Mr. Izaak Pels. niors, two of whom were in early August under the to play key roles in lead- build upon the success this season is to qualify for ing practices and facilitat- they’ve had so far. Unlike Coach Pels believes that the Meet of Champions—a exceptional runners, cap- leadership of Head Coach the team is receptive to tains Roger Matthews (VI) Chris Shilts. ing gameplay. Returning last year, the team has been highly competitive meet players have cultivated finding ways to win close the ideas and culture he is which admits only the top and Henry Wood (V), along Captains James Wang instilling. He says that the with Coaches Matt Horesta (VI), Lance Perlow (VI), their skills to fill the gaps games. Two weeks ago, two teams from each divi- that have formed with the they won a two-overtime team’s “ability to adapt and sion. and Tim Lear are leading a Patrick Birotte (VI), and change culture has been team ready to embrace new Sam Williams (VI) have departure of last year’s thriller against a top-twenty To achieve this goal, seniors. The team has also Hunterdon Central team. a remarkable aspect of Coach Grant’s priority is responsibilities. tremendous faith that their With eight new freshmen team will further its success gained a group of promis- During Homecoming, they our versatility.” He thinks for the team to stay healthy. ing freshmen. defeated Princeton Day that what has happened “If everybody’s healthy joining the team this year, as the season progresses. Coach Horesta remarked Senior Ryan Smith (VI) The Big Blue team com- School 6-0. Robertson at- this year will change team at the end of the season, peted in the Beast of the tributes their success to culture for years to come. I think we’ve got a very that the team has “a young- said, “It’s a close-knit team er feel” to it. “They’ve with a lot of great chemis- East tournament in late “the depth we have at many Head JV coach Margi Dil- good opportunity to win,” September, where it faced different positions.” lon agrees, believing that he said. been a great addition to try and that’s a recipe for Heading into the home the huge group of dedicated Reflecting on last year’s stretch of the season, the freshmen on JV will help season, Coach Grant is team will lean on its senior build the program. Indeed, thrilled by the addition of leadership. as Coach Decatur says, the five new freshmen, a re- “The soccer team has a future is bright for Pingry freshing increase from last huge group of seniors with field hockey. year. With a bigger team, a lot of talent who lead by GIRLS’ TENNIS Coach Grant is excited for their play on the field,” the possibilities that new Robertson said. “Four cap- 17-1 freshmen will present for tains are super helpful be- This year, the varsity the team. cause we can pick each girls’ tennis team has main- Irvine (V) expanded on other up, and there are also tained a strong performance this idea, emphasizing the multiple seniors on the throughout the season. Af- role of individual and team bench who have amazing ter losing only one match, improvement: “It is the energy and who support they are ranked fifth in the most rewarding thing for the team in any circum- state, up from tenth at the a runner to see that all of stances.” beginning of the season. At their hardwork and dedica- The boys look to con- the end of September, the tion paid off when they run tinue their great season team won the county tour- a personal record.” against Gill St. Bernard nament, while third singles, Irvine hopes that “con- next week and into the Gabrielle Billington, first sistent, hard-effort train- Niles Luke (IV) Photo by Bruce Morrison county tournament. doubles, Lily Schiffman ing,” while still “giving GIRLS’ SOCCER the team,” Horesta said, in success.” Teammate and more established water regards to its future. captain Birotte added that polo tournaments in the 11-3 When asked about the “they have high expecta- region. Though the play- The girls’ varsity soccer season so far, Coach Hores- tions for the end of the ers did not meet their goal team has had a successful ta said that the team has season.” of winning their division, season thus far, winning already improved but is The team has shown sharpshooter Noah Bergam nine of the team’s first “only halfway to where we resilience throughout this (V) saw a net positive from twelve games. The team, need to be to compete at our season which has, unfor- the team’s participation: led by captains Emma Ca- best in late October through tunately, been riddled with “Playing against teams panna (VI), Sofia Lombar- the middle of November. injuries. Despite these set- we’d never competed do (VI), and Leah Mangold We’ve just been getting backs, the team still has against forced us to adapt (VI), has been dominant ready more than anything much potential for great- our strategy to unfamiliar in their wins; the goal dif- else so far.” ness. The highlight of the game styles. We were able ferential for all nine wins After the season’s first season so far was when to learn a lot from the has been greater than one, meet against Bernards on Williams was awarded more experienced teams while only one of the team’s September 12th, which the Jersey Sports Belt of at the tournament.” So far, losses has been decided by Coach Horesta described the week for pulling off the water polo season has more than one goal. The as a “starting point which a cheeky hook and ladder forced the team to adapt in offense has managed to gave us a sense of where we play. The boys are looking the face of unforeseeable score forty-six goals so far, were at and how much we forward to finishing the difficulties. Regardless, achieving an average of need to do to keep going,” season strong. they hope to challenge almost four goals per game. the team ran its second their rival, The Lawrencev- This powerful offense is meet in Morristown with WATER POLO ille School, for the state championship and secure a complemented by an un- “important improvement.” 5-2 wavering defense that has The team, aiming to win place in the Easterns Prep allowed only twelve total the Prep “A” Championship The day preseason be- tournament at the end of goals this season. for the fourth consecutive gan, Head Coach Alek- the season. Head Coach Lauren Mo- time, will have its work sandar Breznikar stepped linaro says, “We are in con- cut out against Lawrencev- down from his position. trol of our own destiny… ille and Oratory Prep. The The team received this All scores are current as of if we focus and put in the team also hopes to match news only one year after work, we will see results.” last year’s achievements, losing its previous Head October 22nd. The players have a reputa- including placing third Coach, Misha Klochkov, to tion to uphold their great Caeley Feeney (IV) Photo by Bruce Morrison in Somerset County and the Lawrenceville School. Go Big Blue!