APRILLoomis 12, 2019 ChaffeeIssue 102, No. 7 Logthelclog.org

SPRING HAS SPRUNG

DEAN SASSER TO LEAVE ANYA SASTRY: YOUTH LOOMIS CHAFFEE CLIMATE Ethan Levinbook ’20 | Features Editor ACTIVIST At the end of the 2018-2019 school that tested her strength and encouraged year, Dean of the Senior Class Ms. Patri- her growth. “There are many ways I have Jenny Pan ’22 | Contributor cia Sasser will leave Loomis Chaffee for stretched myself as a dean here,” she said. the position of head of the upper school “We talk about how students grow up, and Anya Sastry ’20 is the national outreach at the Ransom Everglades School, a col- I don’t think we think about adults grow- director for the U.S. Youth Climate Strike; lege-prep day school serving grades six ing up and continuing our growth, but I she led the Chicago Youth Climate Strike through twelve in Miami, Florida. grew up a lot here in different ways.” on March 15, 2019. In the past, Anya has After serving as a faculty member at Loomis itself — its size, the compo- participated in the 2016 Women’s March, her alma mater, the Madeira School in sition of its student body — also proved as well as the 2018 March For Our Lives. McLean, Virginia, Dean Sasser began her new to Dean Sasser, and she recalls the The urgency of many political and social tenure at Loomis in August 2012 excited steep learning curve associated with tran- issues that are left unaddressed motivates to embrace new challenges. sitioning into the Loomis community and her to voice her opinions. “I felt it was time for me to leave the acclimating to her new environment. Last year, she started getting more in- school I had attended and look for other “I came from an all-girls school to a volved in the fi ght against climate change. opportunities to grow,” Dean Sasser said. school that is not all girls. Loomis is big- In the process of planning the Chicago “I don’t like being complacent. I was stay- ger; there were a lot of ways that I learned strike, Anya learned about the various ing safe where people knew me…I wanted about how best to serve my students. I components of the planning process, in- to shake it up a little bit, push myself out am someone who grapples a lot with try- cluding securing permits, contacting press, of my comfort zone, prove myself to oth- ing to identify the needs of my class, who speakers, and performers, and getting A/V ers…and there was a lot about Loomis that the individuals in my class are, how I can equipment. She did a lot of outreach and appealed to me; I knew it would be a good meet their needs and learn what I need to networking, whether through word of challenge.” learn to best support my students. And I mouth or social media. Moreover, Anya Dean Sasser credits Loomis with ex- think it’s important, going through that and her co-state lead for the U.S. Youth posing her to situations and challenges process.” Climate Strike in Chicago contacted youth Photo by Jessica Sasser Continued on page 2 from all over Illinois about the rally, invit- Dean Sasser with her husband, Wyatt, and their ing them to participate. ten-year-old son, Pierce. Continued on page 4 UNEQUAL REPRESENTATION IN LC COURSES Liam Scott ’19 | Editor-in-Chief “I’ve challenged the faculty to really be in process, but some of the changes under thinking about the content of their cours- consideration are replacing Ted Koos- es, but I’m also concerned not just about er’s poetry collection with Clint Smith’s content but also access. And so who has Counting Descent for freshmen, adding access to upper level courses?” mused Dr. Jhumpa Lahiri’s Interpreter of Maladies Culbert as she explained her recent task to the sophomore year, replacing Oedipus for the faculty. While these revisions have Rex with Death and the King’s Horseman been going on for many years, Dr. Culbert in the junior year, and revising the offer- said that the recent rise in hate crimes both ings in senior electives.” in the U.S. and on the Loomis Chaffee This effort to diversify the chosen au- campus means this challenge has “t[aken] thors will help better represent the stu- on a degree of urgency.” dents who are reading the works. Log Still, there is no single way for depart- Social Media Editor Alejandra Velasquez ments to change. Inclusivity is not one size ’20, a student in College Level (CL) En- fi ts all; inclusivity is an incredibly multi- glish Seminar, said of her experience in faceted topic. The most obvious mode of that course, “As a member of the Latinx change is to revise the content that is in- community, I do feel that there is an un- cluded in courses. derrepresentation of authors that identify According to English Department as POC [people of color]. We seem to Head Stephen Colgate in an email, the mainly focus on the work of white male department “ha[s] seen a greater focus writers. I can’t relate to any of the work on maintaining a diversity of voices and that we read, and I think that limits my perspectives in [its] curricular offerings.” ability to appreciate the reading that we’re Data provided by the LC Academic Offi ce. Graphic by Ariel Kayton ’19 He continued that “those changes are still assigned.” The graph above refl ects enrollment rates by female students in all College Level Continued on page 4 (CL) courses within a given department. The entire Loomis Chaffee student body is currently 44% female and 56% male. 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DEAN SASSER TO LEAVE LOOMIS CHAFFEE Ethan Levinbook ’20 | Features Editor Continued from the front Dean Sasser cited the reputation and entire Loomis community to bond. “I like legacy of her predecessor Ms. Ruthanne seeing students in a different way, seeing Marchetti as both a cause of worry and a them get out of their comfort zone, and motivating force. “Coming in new, I fol- see their creativity and bond that way.” lowed someone who had been here for But what Dean Sasser cherishes the thirty years.” She recalls people question- most are those little, fl eeting moments that ing her as she assumed her new position. often go unnoticed. “A favorite part of “People [were] like, ‘who is this… young Loomis is just the random conversations person coming in?’” at night when I’m on dean duty [and] I’m Though she was expected to “fi ll the just hanging out with students… It’s not shoes” of former Dean Marchetti, she in- always the big shiny things; it might be stead sought to wear her own. Dean Sass- just hanging out in the social room, be- er stated that establishing a good rapport cause that’s the sort of thing I remember with members of the community was an from when I was at school,” she said. initial challenge. “When you come to a “I might not remember a lot of things, new school,” she said, “you have to build but I do remember things like hanging credibility with faculty and students. out with friends, eating Tostitos and sal- Loomis has quite a reputation and quite sa in the vestibule. I think it’s just those a tradition. Navigating those waters was conversations that I enjoy. I like laugh- part of the learning curve.” ing with students.” She didn’t hesitate to Since arriving on campus, Dean Sasser mention how much she enjoyed “hitting has worn several different hats. She lived the dancefl oor” on many occasions with in Carter for two years upon arriving at her students. Loomis; she also works with Ms. Eliza- She expressed a great appreciation beth Parada in the offi ce of diversity, eq- to her fellow deans for making her time uity, and inclusion. at Loomis so pleasant. “I feel blessed to “I don’t coach,” she added, “but what work [with] such a great team,” she said. I say is that I am a really loud fan; I love “We work well together, support each to go to… sporting events, performances, other, respect each other, care about each and I always make my presence known. It other, and laugh together (a lot),” she said. is my way of paying it forward; my par- “We genuinely enjoy working together ents lived overseas when I went to board- and I will truly miss them. It will be hard Photo by Beth Helfrich ing school, and they never got to see me to fi nd another team as dedicated and fun Dean Sasser and her son, Pierce, holding a snake. play any of my sports or perform onstage. to work with as our LC Dean team.” I had a lot of adults who would come out Dean Sasser looks forward to her big Sasser expects a mix of nervousness and as of now, been narrowed to four. “What eagerness to accompany her. She says she happens is that Dean Liscinsky posts the feels a “nervous excitement - what I say job, solicits resumes, forms a search com- about any change or transition I make - mittee, they comb through the resumes because there are things about new chal- and pare them down,” she said. “They “I don’t think we think about lenges that will keep me on my toes, that have some conversations and decide who are very exciting, and also I love warm to invite to campus. There are about 4 adults growing up and weather… I am excited about all that. people in the pool. They come to campus But I am nervous about making sure I and meet a whole slew of people… It’s a continuing our growth, but I am building good rapport and credibility marathon of a day; I remember mine, and grew up a lot here [at Loomis among faculty and students.” I remember being exhausted!” Again, she expects it will take time to While Dean Sasser will offi cially de- Chaffee] in different ways.” acclimate to her new position. “My job part the Loomis Chaffee School, exiting will be different from this one,” she said. the community with her Class of 2019 at “A lot of my support is going toward fac- her side, she hopes that her legacy — of and support me, and so I like to do that for move to Florida; she is excited about tak- ulty in more direct ways. I’ll think about her tough love and her devotion to stu- students!” ing advantage of the new opportunities new, different things and partnerships - it dents — will persist. “I want people to Dean Sasser says that she values per- and challenges that await her. She will be might be curriculum, the direction of the know that while I can be tough — I know sonal interaction with her students. “I a new faculty member at an unfamiliar upper school, things like that. That’s ex- I am — that I do have high standards for really enjoy the one-on-ones I have with school, and she, having been in this situa- citing because it will be a new challenge, my students; I believe in them; I care my students. They may not always like tion before, will use what she has learned and I’m nervous because I want to do about them; I want to be there for and them… but I think [they’re] fun, I learn a at Loomis to transition into her new po- well, as anyone would.” know them. At the heart of this job, that’s lot, and it breaks down walls between us.” sition as Head of the Upper School of Dean Sasser herself is not involved what it about.” She cited the Lip Sync Battle, a Loomis the Ransom Everglades School. As with with the selection of a new dean, but she tradition she started, as a great way for the her move from Madeira to Loomis, Dean reports that the pool of contenders has, WORDS HAVE POWER: KATHARINE BRUSH LIBRARY DISPLAY Anya Sastry ’20 | Staff Writer

Throughout the month of March, the from the perspective of marketing and Katherine Brush Library and its staff persuasion. When he heard the statement showcased the “Words Have Power” book “Words have power,” Aaron immediately display in support of the women’s rights thought “of a speech or an ad that is able and civil rights movements of the past. to move an audience and get people excit- The display was curated by Ms. Aubrey ed about an idea.” Muscaro, a staff member in the library, Aaron also refl ected on the negatives who said that “the words we write and aspects of the power that words have. those we say to others have an impact on “Some speakers can be so impactful and everyone around us...they have the power convincing in their speeches, so it is im- to help us through diffi cult and challeng- portant to also consider the possible neg- ing times...and they can help us heal and ative consequences that powerful words come together as a community.” can have,” he said. She drew inspiration for the display Maral Asik ’20 refl ected on the phrase from “the iconic picture of Gloria Steinem in a slightly different way. “It’s one thing and Dorothy Pitman-Hughes raising their to be able to formulate a decent idea, but fi sts in solidarity.” it’s a whole other thing entirely to be able After viewing the display in the library, to communicate it effectively,” she said. Loomis Chaffee students refl ected upon “Words are not just cold instruments to the phrase “words have power” in differ- use for construction… they can be used to ent ways. evoke emotion, offend, or motivate.” Aaron Oñate ’20 viewed the phrase

Photo by Aubrey Muscaro The Words Have Power display was held on the second fl oor of the library. 2 NEWS | April 12, 2019

MADISON BEER “SCIENCE IS POWER” VISITS LOOMIS WITH MR. CHAUDHARY Anna Li ’20 | Staff Writer Minjune Song ’21 | Contributor “Science is power,” explained Neil the stern reality that modern science plays Chaudhary ’05, a Loomis Chaffee biolo- a larger role in charting our future. A sec- gy, chemistry, and forensics teacher, as he tion of the Chaudhary’s speech read, “The stood in Gilchrist Hall on March 26 to de- plot of so many fantasies is that we can go liver a lecture on the relationship between back in time to change the past and make science and power. At the request of the the present what we want it to be. Well Norton Family Center for the Common here we are in the present, and our choic- Good, Mr. Chaudhary has given the lec- es now determine the future. There is no ture to the freshmen class annually since need to fantasize.” 2016 and aims to answer “broader ques- Considering the heavy topics dis- tions of why science is important in soci- cussed in the speech, Mr. Chaudhary said, ety.” “There’s some subset of students whom He touched on topics like the deploy- I think you know, probably [the lecture] ment of antibiotics, the use of nuclear didn’t do much at all. On the other hand, weapons, space exploration, and artifi - there is a set of students way at the oth- cial intelligence, introducing the class of er end of the spectrum for whom this 2022 to a sophisticated world in which Mr. was like one of those sorts of refi lling the Chaudhary believes “humanity now pos- bucket of inspiration type of things where sesses, for the fi rst time in its history, the they are like ‘yes, I’m a person that loves capacity to destroy itself.” science’.” “One of the things that I do at the end of One such inspired student, Andrew Park the talk is to raise a couple of issues that ’22, said, “[The talk] gave me a different have not yet really come to pass but which perspective of science, an added insight on will, and which we will have to make the usefulness and importance of science.” Photo by LC Communications/Mary Forrester choices about; like the fi rst genetically “The lecture would be considered a suc- Anya Sastry ’20, Longman dorm prefect and co-organizer of the Madison Beer interview and con- engineered humans were born a couple cess,” said Mr. Chaudhary, “if the middle cert at Loomis Chaffee, with Madison Beer at the post-concert meet-and-greet. of months ago,” says Mr. Chaudhary. He 50 percent of the audience members con- shifted focus from the past and present to sidered questions like whether we ought to On the night of Friday, March 22, 300 dents were able to meet and take pictures the future, where he explained that young be genetically engineering our offspring.” Loomis Chaffee students screamed with with Madison Beer herself. Longman pre- students hold the power and responsibility Since many kids have never thought about glee as Madison Beer, singer and social fect Kavya Kolli appreciated the opportu- to make decisions that change the course the future of humanity and space, Mr. media infl uencer, stepped out onto the nity for “meeting [Madison] and realizing of humanity. Chaudhary hoped that the lecture would Hubbard stage. The news of the visit had how normal she is.” A large part of the lecture focused on open eyes and ears to urgent questions that caused much excitement on campus as When asked why Longman chose Mad- raising awareness not only for the aca- are confronting humanity at this time. Madison Beer boasts 12.6 million follow- ison Beer to perform at Loomis, Kavya demic importance of science but also for ers on Instagram as well as a large follow- responded, “She was a great fi t because ing on other social media accounts, such she represent[s] female empowerment as Twitter and YouTube. Some students in the music industry.” Kolli noted again at the concert had lined up as much as an that Beer assumed the role of “a woman hour early to secure seats. in charge,” as she is now an independent “Humanity now possesses, for the fi rst time in its The Longman Leadership Institute, artist. headed by the dorm’s two prefects, Anya Fellow prefect Anya Sastry explained history, the capacity to destroy itself.” Sastry ’20 and Kavya Kolli ’20, organized that “it’s pretty clear that if [Madison] the entire event with help from Student wants something she’ll go get it, and she Activities. The Longman Leadership In- won’t let anyone hold her back.” This is stitute is an on-campus program run by a lesson she hopes that the students on Longman dormitory with the goals of em- campus will take from the interview with powering women and girls in their own Madison. dorm and around campus. Madison Beer started her career after This year, they chose to use their annual having her cover tweeted out by Justin funding to sponsor a private interview and Bieber. From there, she landed a record concert for the students of Loomis. The deal with Scooter Braun, who currently performance lasted from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. manages Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber. and included an audience open interview After Beer realized her ambitions differed and the performance of three of Madison from her music label, she left to forge Beer’s songs: “Dead,” “Tyler Durden,” her own way through the music industry. and “Hurts Like Hell.” Since then, she has successfully released Through the interview portion of the a single with Offset and has an album to performance, Madison touched on many be released. important subjects such as body shaming, Longman hopes to invite similar pow- social media pressures, and dealing with erful women artists and celebrities such as hate. She mentioned her least favorite part Ariana Grande, Emma Watson, and Billie of social media was that “people [are] just Eilish. Beer’s visit to Loomis emphasiz- judging you and thinking you’re a soulless es the message of women empowerment selfi e.” She added that the number of fol- across all spheres of life and successfully lowers and likes a person gets should not advertises the signifi cance of the Long- correspond to their self-worth. man Leadership Institute across campus. In addition to an interview and private concert, a handful of lucky Loomis stu- Photo by Neil Chaudhary Mr. Chaudhary with Dolly, a taxedermied cloned sheep. WHERE DID THAT BELL GO? Victoria Che ’21 | Contributor If you’ve ever had to dash down the li- will encourage teachers to be respectful pected outcome of the no-bell policy. “I brary stairs at 10:43 a.m. to run to your of other teachers’ time and will motivate did hear a student say that because there next class because you didn’t hear a bell, students to be mindful of their time and is no bell, they felt like it was more le- then you may have wondered why Loom- responsibilities. nient,” she said. Without the sound of the is has gotten rid of the bells and if they “I have found with the no bell policy bell, it is less obvious when students walk will ever return. that it has made, really surprisingly, little into class three minutes late. Ms. Blas After the school returned from spring difference in my world,” said Mr. Jef- disagreed; she stated that “if class starts break, the Loomis Chaffee administrators frey Scanlon, an English faculty member. at 8:30, it still should start at 8:30 even if started a trial period for a no-bell policy. Having worked as an English teacher for there is no bell.” While it took a few days Associate Director of Studies Mr. Robert over twenty years at Loomis, Mr. Scanlon for both teachers and students to adjust to DeConinck explained that the no-bell de- watches the clock to make sure that he is the change, Ms. Blas sees that things are cision was made because “a group of ad- “acutely aware of how much time is left in getting back on track after two weeks. ministrators felt that all the different bells class.” Therefore, Mr. Scanlon thinks that “The decision has not been made for in our lives did create a sense of urgency he will be “totally fi ne” either way, with permanent basis; we will look at it again and stress.” or without bells. in another week or two,” Mr. DeConinck For a no-bell system to function, Mr. “Now I pay more attention to the clock, said. Although most feedback that the aca- DeConinck believes that teachers should so that I am respectful of my own time, demic offi ce has received comes from the end class promptly and students should go my students’ time, and that they are not teachers’ perspectives, Mr. DeConinck to where they are supposed to be on time. late for their next class,” said Ms. Maribel welcomes student input. Students who So far the Loomis community has done Photo by of Minna Gao Blas, French and Spanish teacher. feel strongly about the bells are advised to quite well at adapting to the new system. Mr. Jackson Fleming’s Latin III class pack up From a conversation she heard between contact Mr. DeConinck. Mr. DeConinck hopes that the new policy to leave, sans bell. her students, Ms. Blas noticed an unex- 3 FEATURES | April 12, 2019 UNEQUAL REPRESENTATION Liam Scott ’19 | Editor-in-Chief

Continued from the front “I believe it’d be helpful to represent ed in CL classes, but also that girls are not other communities through the work we “We are fi ghting a lot of big systems in suffi ciently represented in CL Math and study in class because it would broaden boys are not suffi ciently represented in the view of students and maybe help aid CL English. racial tension on campus to prevent racist place...there are a lot of Eurocentric Additionally, according to data provid- actions like the ones the school has re- ed by the Academic Offi ce, 50% of stu- cently experienced,” Alejandra added. ideas that we would need to combat.” dents in all CL history courses identify as The History, Philosophy, Religious female; 54% of students in all CL science Studies, and Social Sciences Department courses identify as female; 57% of stu- is also looking at the content covered in She explained that this has been done, the class, each student will write a letter dents in all CL English courses identify as its curriculum. Mr. Harrison Shure, who in part, by examining the texts that are to the Loomis administration arguing for female; and 72% of students in all CL for- will take over as the History, Philosophy, included in the curriculum, in addition to or against the representation of multiple eign language courses identify as female. and Religious Studies Department Head which countries and themes are covered. voices in class. However, this data could be skewed next year, said that the U.S. history teach- Classroom decorations have also been The math department has taken a differ- because it combines all CL courses with- ers have met to discuss potential changes considered. ent approach to becoming more inclusive. in one department into just one statistic. to the curriculum. He added that offering She also brought up the canon, meaning Math Department Head Mr. Joe Cleary Also, for comparison, 44% of the student a diverse range of courses and teaching the texts that are considered essential to explained that the department is re-con- body identifi es as female. history through different perspectives are the literature of a given language. “If we sidering how math is taught, so the expe- Data regarding the racial identities of both extremely important to the entire de- are only teaching the canon, is diversity rience is better tailored to how a student students in CL courses is more diffi cult partment. in the canon? What counts as the canon?” best learns math. He does not want math to draw conclusions from, as 25% of stu- The U.S. History cohort and several But these changes are not easy. “We are to be considered only right or wrong. dents said that they preferred not to indi- other members of the department also met fi ghting a lot of big systems in place […] Another small but important change cate their race. with People Rising In Support of Multi- there are a lot of Eurocentric ideas that we that the department implemented years Dr. Culbert thinks that the best way to culturalism (PRISM), the school’s multi- would need to combat,” she added. An ex- ago is how names are picked for word better represent the student body in CL cultural organization, to discuss PRISM’s ample of this is how France marginalizes problems. In an effort to be more inclu- classes is with “preparation and encour- concerns regarding content covered in Francophone authors born outside France. sive, “we’ve intentionally started using agement.” some of the department’s classes and its Nonetheless, Dr. Nisselson maintained students names in our classes” for word She continued that “it is about encour- delivery. Mr. Shure described the conver- that incorporating voices from all over the problems, Mr. Cleary explained. aging students to take risks. It’s about sation as thought-provoking and positive. French-, Spanish-, and Arabic-speaking Mr. Cleary also commented on the encouraging student to believe in them- Director of Diversity and Inclusion world is important; so is including the gender divide in mathematics. The de- selves. It is also quite frankly about mak- Ms. Elizabeth Parada, who also advises voices of minority ethnic groups in China. partment discovered years ago that in ing sure students have role models.” PRISM, added that four PRISM members Dr. Culbert recognized that it is easy advanced pre-calculus, girls were more Dr. Culbert said that hiring is an area “wrote a proposal to ensure that all stu- to say English and history classes are the likely to drop the class quietly and not where the school can improve in order to dents [understand] diversity, equity, and ones that can be changed, but she made it ask for help, whereas boys were more have a more diverse faculty. If students inclusion from a sociological perspective. clear that all of the departments—human- likely to vocalize their confusion around see themselves in their teachers, they are Their ideas will help inform the updates ities or STEM—can and should evolve. a concept, and ultimately remain in the more likely to pursue that subject to an currently underway in the freshmen and “In humanities you hear the voices of advanced class. advanced level. sophomore centered curricula for the different groups of people much more “A system we put in place is you now These fi ve department heads and Dr. Seminars for the Common Good and Fit- prominently than in science,” said Sci- need to meet with teacher face-to-face to Culbert were united in several ways, in- ness and Wellness, respectively.” ence Department Head Ms. Naomi Appel. drop,” Mr. Cleary explained. cluding in the belief that this development Modern and Classical Languages De- However, she offered examples of how Still, according to data provided by the is ongoing. This change will be continu- partment Head Dr. Rachel Nisselson ex- the department already is changing. Academic Offi ce, just 37% of students in ous, just as it has been for the past several plained that the department has also met Ms. Sara Markman is using the Inte- CL math identify as female. This statistic years—the urgency has just increased. In to discuss making the department’s cur- grated Earth and Physical Sciences course relates to Dr. Culbert’s other concern— the words of Dr. Nisselson, “there is still riculum more representative of the stu- to study astronomy from the perspective not only that traditionally underrepresent- work to be done.” dent body. of four different cultures. At the end of ed students are not suffi ciently represent- ANYA SASTRY: I-TRI UPDATE YOUTH CLIMATE ACTIVIST Oscar Ye ’22 | Contributor Jenny Pan ’22 | Contributor Spending weeks and weeks in the PHI, On the third day of the program, the Continued from the front performing demanding tasks, conducting students met their business partners. The research in the community, and communi- students began with a tour of the company cating with retail partners, the students in and learned its history and future goals. the new I-Tri program have certainly been Then, Eliza Florian, co-owner of the com- busy. pany, presented to the students the chal- The students participating in the I-Tri lenge that they would complete over the are no longer enrolled in any of their pre- next two weeks. The question: how could vious classes; instead, they follow a spe- her company become a dominant business cial schedule that amounts approximately within the Granby community? to fi ve classes’ worth of work and time. “The students discussed…and inter- “We have people who are graduating viewed people, and we took them back in May of this year, members of the se- to Granby so that they could spend time nior class and post-graduate students who inside the restaurant, outside in the main are spending the term with us doing de- area of Granby to approach customers sign-thinking as well as entrepreneurship and potential customers to take data on work in the PHI,” said Ms. Solomon, As- other restaurants in the area,” said Ms. sociate Director of Innovation. Solomon. “Students would do… fi eld re- English faculty member Mr. Tim Hel- search, and ultimately they would present frich ’96 said that the I-Tri curriculum is [their fi ndings] to the owner and the gen- built primarily around partnerships with eral manager, just as consultants would to local businesses, both profi t or non-prof- the founder of the business.” it organizations. Thus, the hands-on work Proposing three major ideals — con- students perform responds to real issues necting, promoting and retaining — the Graphic courtesy of Isabella Johnson Anya Sastry speaking at the Youth Climate Strike in Chicago. within real companies. They spend be- students, on April 3, presented solutions tween one and three weeks working on to the challenge posed by their retail part- The U.S. Youth Climate Strike hopes incredible power to affect change. “Your presenting solutions for these local busi- ners. They created a loyalty program and to call attention to elected offi cials’ apa- voice is powerful,” she said. “By ampli- nesses. Mr. Helfrich stated that the I-Tri a credit card system by which returning thy toward environmental issues. “Our fying your experiences and your stories, curriculum “provides [students] a variety customers could receive rewards. elected offi cials and people in positions you have the ability to make change, on of challenges to test them in different Mr. Helfrich has high hopes for the fu- of power refuse to acknowledge that we a small scale or large scale. There will ways.” ture of the I-Tri program. “We are hoping only have twelve years left to solve these be people who turn you away, who try to This year’s I-Tri focuses on the food in- that this program could continue increas- crises and by doing that, they are endan- silence and discredit you. But if there is dustry. Currently, Deep Roots Street Food ing in popularity,” he said. “It is a program gering the lives of every single person on an issue that you are passionate about, or in Granby, CT, serves as the program’s re- that can expand beyond one group of stu- this planet,” Anya said. even anything in general that you are pas- tail partner within the food industry. “The dents and ideally beyond just the spring The large-scale impact of this issue was sionate about, do not let anyone stop you restaurant was just opened in November, term. As far as next year goes, the only refl ected by the diversity of the partici- from being that change-maker, achieving so we were working with a company that’s thing we know for sure is that we will be pating members; there were children as your goals, or whatever it may be.” only a few months old and was really go- running the program in spring and we are young as two and adults as old as seventy. The U.S. Youth Climate Strike was ef- ing through a number of growing pains open to expanding the program beyond “My generation, as well as generations fective; it caught the attention of António as it tried to fi gure out through what ap- that based on the interests that exist in the to come, will spend the entirety of our Guterres, the Secretary-General of the proaches were they developing,” Mr. Hel- student body.” lives dealing with the negatively altered United Nations. In response to the rallies frich said. state of our environment and the resulting across America, he called a UN Climate political and economical chaos,” Anya ex- Summit that, according to Anya, “will plained. She says that there must be im- address the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable mediate action taken concerning the envi- Development and will allow youth cli- the I-Tri curriculum “provides [students] a ronmental crisis. mate activists to have infl uence on the “... Anya contended that teenagers have various policies.” variety of challenges to test them in different ways.” 4 FEATURES | April 12, 2019 REVISITING REVISIT DAYS Lana Sheng ’22 | Contributor On March 29, April 2, and April 5, the Seeing the dorm and rooms and learning because it gave me a more in-depth look Loomis Chaffee community welcomed about dorm life sold me.” into how Loomis functions as a school and prospective pelicans to campus for three Cooper Donovan ’22 said that meeting how classes worked. What really stood revisit days. While some may underes- incredibly warm and welcoming Loomis out to me was how the classes functioned timate their importance, revisit days are students made the difference on his own and the material they covered,” He noted. crucial to the entire Loomis Chaffee ad- revisit day. “I still remember my revisit Walker Craig ’21 agreed. “What really missions process, and they can make or day host, but what I really remember was held true for me to come to Loomis was break a prospective pelican’s decision to all the other kids around just being awe- the class structure and how well the class- enter Loomis Chaffee. some. Kids in my classes were all trying es functioned even on a regular revisit “Revisit day made such a huge differ- to be laid-back, and that really stuck with day,” he said. ence for me,” Sophia Testa ’22 said. “Be- me... I didn’t even bother to revisit the rest Yet some students believe that revisit fore coming to revisit day, I thought that I of the schools on my list after my revisit days could use some improvement. “I feel was going to go to Hotchkiss, but revisit day at Loomis.” like it’s better if you have the same host day really did change my mind. The class- “I found that this day was super effec- throughout the whole day because you get room was a positive space for me, and my tive!” Virginia Joyce ’20 said. “I actual- to connect to them and the school on a dif- coaches who had already reached out to ly canceled my other scheduled revisit ferent level,” said Julia Lantner ’22. me and helped me through the process day at Milton because I liked Loomis so Henry Deng ‘22 said he would have made me feel like I belonged at Loomis… much and accepted that day. The kids and preferred to have a greater degree of I met my best friend here at Loomis on teachers were so engaging and the class- choice on his revisit day last year. “It revisit day… Everything about revisit day es I went to made what we were learning would be interesting if we could choose last year changed my mind and made me about so much more interesting. I also just the classes we wanted to attend. I went to decide to say ‘yes’ to Loomis!” got a certain feeling that this was the right History Inside Out, and the class material “I think Revisit Day made me want to choice when I was on campus.” was strictly related to the Loomis family, come here,” Charlotte Hill ’21 said. “I Janus Yuen ’21 stated that getting a true so I couldn’t participate in the discussion, was half wanting to come and half not, glimpse into academic life at Loomis had Photo courtesy of Lana Sheng ’22 which made it a bit boring for me,” he but to be actually immersed in the Loomis a great impact on his enthusiasm for the said. environment helped me decide to come! school. “The revisit day was quite helpful MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM MOROCCO Jean Shin ’20 | Staff Writer This past spring break, the Alvord Cen- joyed seeing how Tom, a fellow student ter for Global and Environmental Studies on the trip, befriended a shopkeeper. The hosted a French and Arabic cultural im- owner told him to come back for tea! mersion experience in Morocco. Travel- Seeing the use of language to create re- ling with French and Latin teacher Mr. lationships with complete strangers was Jackson Fleming and Arabic teacher Mrs. awesome.” Ludmila Zamah, fi fteen students explored Anna Rebello ’21 especially enjoyed Rabat, Casablanca, and Ouarzazate to vis- the homestay experience. “For me, it the kasbahs, solar panel stations, and the the most memorable time in Morocco Sahara Desert. was when we stayed in Rabat with our The adventure began at the Center for homestay families,” she shared. “The Cross Cultural Learning (CCCL), an edu- families lived in the Medina, which is the cation hub situated in the heart of Rabat. older, more traditional section of the city. Students learned Arabic survival skills — A few friends and I stayed with a wom- including how to haggle for cheaper sou- an who spoke French and Arabic. It was venirs in the street markets — as well as the fi rst time I used French outside of the basic Moroccan etiquette. classroom, so it was a really big learning “I just loved the synergy between the experience for me—sort of learning by courses we took at the CCCL and the real doing.” outside world!” Mr. Fleming said. “We Anna was moved by the warmth of her immediately had the opportunity to use homestay family. “When we were greeted what we learned right after we left the by our homestay mom, she brought us to building.” her kitchen. One thing that’s really im- “As a language teacher, it was really portant in Moroccan culture is hospitality, Photo by of Emma, a tour guide in Morocco. awesome to see the haggling challenge in and she welcomed us into her home with Alhasan Barrie, Elizabeth Chapman, Clara Chen, Thierno Diallo, Laine Duncan, Daniel Graham, Rabat,” Mrs. Zamah said. “Students were the classic Moroccan mint tea and the Maddy Hoffman, Abby Huang, Emma Macdonald, Makayla Mcpherson, Lily Potter, Anna Rebello, given the task to see what they could fi nd Moroccan crepes. It was a cool beginning Madison Redmon, Jean Shin, and Tom Zhang attended the trip. Faculty members Jackson Fleming with twenty Dirhams, which is around to the homestay because it was a great and Ludmila Zamah also attended. two dollars in the United States. Every- cross-culture experience.” “Morocco might be a poorer country than said. “I have never seen so many stars body took it seriously and they learned Mr. Fleming also enjoyed his fi rst the United States, but they’re more ad- before! It was just amazing to soak that some Moroccan dialect to bargain with the homestay encounter. “When I was drop- vanced and invested in conserving the en- beautiful moment in and just be there and shopkeepers. It was just heartwarming to ping students off at their homestay, I was vironment,” she commented. “They’re us- realize that we’re in Morocco, we’re in see everybody really get into it and come invited to stay and drink tea. The host ing reusable felt bags instead of the plastic the desert.” back with stories, even if all they got was mom said ‘Kooli, kooli, kooli!’ which bags we have in the United States. A few Following the star gazing event, the a bracelet—or actually some of them got literally translates to ‘Eat more, more, days ago, I read about a woman who had group huddled around a bonfi re and en- postcards, which was an unusual fi nd be- more!’ I understood what she was saying a baby calf. A plastic bag was blowing in gaged in the traditions of the Berbers, an cause I didn’t see any postcards when I through the CCCL crash course. It was the wind, and the calf tried to eat the bag, ethnic group of North and West Africans. was walking around. Everyone seemed to great seeing [how] applicable the CCCL which killed it. Morocco doesn’t have “Personally, the bonfi re in the desert was be proud of themselves and to enjoy the lessons were,” he said these problems.” a highlight for my trip,” Mrs. Zamah said. haggling challenge!” For Madison Redmond ’20, the most Madison especially enjoyed the visit to “Mr. Fleming and I had prepared a few Further elaborating on the bargaining striking feature of Morocco was its ini- the huge solar panel facilities near the Sa- Moroccan folktales to tell to the group; exercise, Mr. Fleming said, “I really en- tiatives for environmental sustainability. hara Desert. “In class at Loomis, we talk- everyone was completely unplugged and ed about the famous Morocco solar pan- just living in the moment. I think they els, so it was really cool to see the solar were entertained and slightly horrifi ed array fi rsthand,” she said. “Solar panels by our stories and our songs. Our tales are expensive, but once you put the panels led to others sharing stories from their in, over time, you start gaining money be- own cultures and camping backgrounds. cause you’re not paying high electric bills Then, our host came out and started play- because the energy comes from the Sun. ing drums and we were singing, clapping, I think Morocco is being really smart by and dancing. The evening highlighted the investing into this project.” simple pleasures in life.” Daniel Graham ’21 recollected his Thierno Diallo ’21 reminisced about the camping experience in the Sahara Des- views and the emotions from the morning ert. “One thing that was really memora- following the bonfi re. “My favorite part ble was when we looked up at the stars. was waking up in the morning and watch- Santi, one of our tour guides, was pointing ing the sunrise with my friends,” he said. out the constellation out because I didn’t “It was early in the morning, like seven or know any of them. After a while, I could eight, and we had to go up the sand dunes. start to see the pictures and the patterns in They were very steep, so we had to run the night sky. Gazing at the huge sky and up or we would sink. When we got to the the bright stars, I had a chance to recon- top, the sunrise was exquisite. The sunrise nect with nature. Even though there was is an everyday, natural event, but that day, sand in my mouth and eyes, and I could it was special because we were watching barely breathe or look in any direction ex- it rise from the endless sandy hills of the cept up, it was defi nitely my favorite part Sahara Desert. Just looking around and Photo by Ludmila Zamah of the trip.” seeing the smiles on my peers and the Students wait to see who won the tea making competition,held at the Berber Cultural Center near Lizzie Chapmawn ’21, too, enjoyed the pictures being taken… I just loved being Marrakesh. camping experience. “I just remember ly- there.” ing under the stars and looking up,” she 5 OPINION | April 12, 2019

COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMS AND THE MERITOCRACY MYTH Why the SATs and ACTs desperately need reform Ryan Jones ’20 | Contributor On May 4, 2019, students across the test-taking experience of students from study aids, like those offered by educa- ly qualifi ed low-income students fall by country, bleary-eyed and armed with cal- Loomis Chaffee, a school with a wealth- tion companies such as Kaplan, can cost the wayside. culators, will crowd into math classrooms ier-than-average student body. Many stu- upwards of $300. Financial diffi culties In fact, at most elite universities, stu- and school gyms to take the SATs. The dents have opportunities to participate also mean that many low-income students dents from the poorest quarter of the pop- bane of any high schooler past their soph- in test-taking workshops, work regular- have limited free time to prepare for stan- ulation constitute just three percent of the omore fall, college entrance exams can ly with tutors and guidance counselors, dardized tests since many are compelled student body. (4) rarely be mentioned without eliciting a and buy test prep booklets in our school to get jobs. “The scarcity of low-income students,” medley of groans and pained expressions. bookstore. However, in poorer areas of This phenomenon could also explain writes Richard Kahlenberg, an education This reaction is far from incomprehensi- the country, such resources are not readily the disparity between the average scores policy expert, “rivals the representation ble; the SATs are too long, too stressful, of minority students in the pre-civil rights and often occur far too early in the morn- era.” The SATs, a major factor in the ad- ing. For many students, college entrance missions process, have only exacerbated exams are not just a minor inconvenience the disparity. but rather a manifestation of the college In June 2018, the University of Chica- process’s systematic bias in favor of the go became one of the fi rst elite universi- wealthier students. ties to announce that they would no longer Numerous studies have shown that, in require college entrance exams in their general, the richer the student, the higher application. It is only appropriate for oth- their SAT or ACT scores. “On every test er colleges to follow suit. section, moving up an income catego- SAT scores should simply be an added ry [is] associated with an average [SAT] bonus to a student’s application; the test score boost of over 12 points,” writes should not be done away with entirely, Catherine Rampell in The New York but students should be allowed to present Times. themselves exclusively on their academic For example, in 2016, according to performance and role in their communi- College Board statistics, students with ty if they so please. Unless other colleges families who make less than $20,000 do the same, the admissions process will a year had an average composite score continue to favor access over acuity, inev- of 1314 out of 2400, whereas students itably leaving talented students burdened with families earning between $80,000 with generational poverty in the dust. and $100,000 a year had a signifi cantly higher average score of 15451. Students Photo by AP Photo/Russell Contreras, File 1. Note: Statistics referring to family whose families earn more than $200,000 a Latinx students in Albuquerque protesting after walking out of a standardzed test. income and SAT scores weren’t released year (the highest demographic analyzed) in 2017 and 2018. scored an average of 1717, over 400 points available. of white students and students of color; 2. Alana Semuels, “Good School, higher than the lowest demographic. “Nationally, high poverty districts while 59% of white students and 71% of Rich School; Bad School, Poor School,” So, how can there be such glaring clas- spend 15.6 percent less per student than Asian students meet the SAT’s reading, The Atlantic, August 25, 2016. sism in an ostensibly equitable system? low-poverty districts,” writes Alana Sem- writing and math benchmarks, only 31% 3. Aamer Madhani, “University We all show up and take the same test uels in The Atlantic, meaning many poor- of Latinos and 20% of Black students can of Chicago Becomes First Elite School in the same amount of allotted time, yet er schools lack the resources to provide say the same (3). Unsurprisingly, a recent to Make SAT, ACT Optional for Appli- students in higher socioeconomic class- students with an adequate core education, study by The Education Trust found that cants,” USA Today, June 14, 2018. es consistently manage to achieve higher let alone preparation for standardized test- states spend approximately $1,800 less 4. Richard D. Kahlenberg, “How scores. In short, much of this well-docu- ing. (2) per student of color than white students. Low-Income Students Are Fitting In at mented inequity is set in motion far be- Furthermore, poorer students lack the The well-documented bias of college Elite Colleges,” The Atlantic, February 24 fore students sharpen their number-two funds to prepare for the test on their own. entrance exams toward richer students pencils for testing day. While the College Board does offer some perpetuates a system in which wealthier, For example, let’s consider the free study materials, more expansive whiter students rise to the top while equal- NO BELLS A GOOD THING Eliza Nelson ’22, Jordan Korn ’22, Natasha Balingit ’22 | Contributors When we returned to campus after a and place more value on the content that begin a minute early or a minute late and well-deserved break, there was one loud is covered. there is no harsh reminder of the non-ad- thing missing—the bells. It has now become the responsibility of herence to our strict schedules. This change was made with the goal both the teachers and students to properly The bells created a pressured environ- of creating a less stressful environment. keep track of time, meaning that we now ment where students and teachers felt While seemingly minimal, this transfor- have more control over our attendance rushed and worried. The bells at times mation in our everyday routine required and can prepare accordingly. served as loud unnecessary reminders that adjustments for faculty and students alike. It is important to learn life skills that we needed to move on to another task. Nevertheless, the absence of bells on cam- can be transferred to life beyond high Without the bells, some students have pus has already created a positive impact. school. Without the familiar ring, we are become increasingly anxious about class- The three major results are the increased encouraged to be in charge of our own es ending on time and have begin to con- fl exibility of time, an increased sense of commitments rather than being guided by stantly look at the clock, anticipating the responsibility, and the reduction of stress. the bells. end of a period. In almost every class, Fostering an environment in which our With the bells, we students lacked commentaries on how the class is ending teachers are given more freedom in their classrooms, this modifi cation has created a classroom culture that is not constrained by the ringing of the bells. In comparison to the previously abrupt conclusion to class, without the bells’ in- Without the familiar ring, we are encouraged terruptions, dismissal from classes has be- come less chaotic—classes are now able to be in charge of our own commitments rather to come to a close naturally. Nothing interrupts a classroom envi- than being guided by the bells. ronment more than a blaring school bell. Prior to their shutting-off, the ringing noise disrupts students and teachers who are in the midst of communicating valu- control over our daily commitments. Al- soon or questions about how much time able information or inquiry. though revoking the bells was a relatively is left has increased. While at times dis- To be completely honest, I took the minor change, it allows us to take on the tracting, this new trend shows that the stu- ringing as a sign to stop listening and ig- task of upholding our responsibility to get dents are now sharing the responsibility of nore any fi nal directions. Teachers speed- to class on time. It is important that we managing class time. This is an essential ily relayed homework assignments as gain independence, but in order to do so, skill that can be transferred to life beyond classmates eagerly zipped up their back- we must fi rst acclimate to self-guidance. Loomis. Graphic by Julie Chung ’21 packs, bolted out the door, and scurried Without the ringing of bells, the begin- The no-bells system, though only al- across campus. ning of classes has become a smudged tering a small part of our day-to-day life, from the overbearing, anxiety-inducing In the absence of bells, the few seconds line instead of a harsh start. There is no benefi ts the Loomis Chaffee community ringing that we used to hear. Some people at the start and end of a period do not car- clear sign for when the class ‘begins’ and greatly. Providing us with the skills that may miss the bells, but, ultimately, with- ry as much weight. Classes have less of some teachers have taken a more relaxed we will use in our future, this new system out them, we can thrive in a less stressful a ‘clocking in and clocking out’ feeling stance regarding tardiness. Classes often will give the students and teachers a break environment. 6 OPINION | April 12, 2019 COLLEGE SCANDAL UNACCEPTABLE AND UNSURPRISING Portia Inzone ’20 | Opinions Editor In mid-March, the news of fi fty fam- the details of the scandal. I questioned the The most alarming aspect of these cas- spread rumor that money is a loophole in ilies illegally securing their children’s upper-class prerogative and manipulation es lie in their criminal nature. Although the college process has been reaffi rmed. acceptance to highly-selective colleges of the college process. the phenomena of upper-class families Given the social leverage of wealth, overwhelmed our newsfeed. The FBI However, as I refl ected on my previous donating large sums of money for aca- the current admissions system, supposed- have begun their investigation, “Opera- understanding of the college process, I demic and athletic buildings to selective ly merit-based but systematically biased, tion Varsity Blues,” into the fraudulent ac- quickly recognized the normality of Oliv- colleges to secure a student’s acceptance perpetuates classism in our education sys- ceptances to schools such as the Univer- ia Jade’s outwardly repulsive efforts. also unjustly exploits the college process, tem. sity of Southern California, University of In the midst of increasing competi- these families at least chose to take a more In many cases, colleges place priority California Los Angeles, and Georgetown tion between high school students and public and legal route. on students who can fi nancially benefi t University. decreasing college acceptance rates, her Upon the discovery of rich, predom- the school over worthy applicants who Despite the alarming number of ac- family and other involved in the “Opera- inantly white families paying off tutors, cannot afford the increasing cost of col- cused families, Olivia Jade—social media tion Varsity Blues” utilized their wealth to doctors, standardized test experts, and/or lege applications but are more likely to infl uencer and daughter of Lori Loughlin their children’s advantage—an action far photographers to enhance an otherwise fully capture the resources offered by col- from Full House—is receiving the most more common than some may think. unqualifi ed application, the already wide- leges to further cultivate their intellectual attention. curiosity and pursue their passions. As Jade’s application to the University When are we going to rectify the recog- of Southern California (USC) was false- nized corruption within a college admis- ly centralized around her commitment sions system that unfairly prioritizes one to and expertise in crew, her family paid student’s wealth over another student’s a photographer to photoshop her picture merit? onto the face of a crew rower and an SAT At a preparatory boarding school that tutor to infl ate her test scores. encourages its students to apply to highly Upon her acceptance, Jade published a selective colleges, I fi nd it incredibly dif- vlog to her YouTube channel, discussing fi cult to overlook the upper-hand that the her disinterest in USC academics and her rich have in college admissions. plan to prioritize partying and tailgating. Despite my initial surprise in hearing Jade suggested that her future fi nancial Olivia Jade’s extensive efforts to secure a success is guaranteed with or without a spot at USC, I am ultimately disappointed college degree. in certain upper-class families for unfair- As a high school junior who is begin- ly placing their children in much coveted ning the college process, I was stunned by spots in prestigious colleges, sacrifi cing the extent certain wealthy families will go other able students in the process. to illegitimately send their children to elite Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File colleges. I read and recoiled as I learned Lori Loughlin and her daughter Olivia Jade, above, have received a lot of media attention for lying to get into USC. UNFAIR ESL TREATMENT ALONE, NOT LONELY Margarita Demkina ’20 | Contributor Stephanie Zhang ’21 | News Editor A recent scandal at Duke University ous students who are fl uent or fully profi - Living in a single can be a scary idea to have a friend living with me.” forced Professor Megan Neely to step cient in one or more languages other than for high school students who are simul- On the fl ip side, having a roommate down from “her role as director of gradu- English. “English as a Second Language” taneously trying to fi nd friends and to with whom you are not compatible can ate studies in the medical school’s biosta- (ESL) students may not have perfect En- pursue their own interests. The fear of lead to much stress and frustration. “Ev- tistics master’s program,” reports Sarah glish, but it is the choice of each individ- being alone while others are having fun eryone who’s had a bad roommate expe- Mervosh in The New York Times. Neely ual to speak in any language he or she with their friends, FOMO (fear of missing rience wants a single,” concluded Margot had sent out an email in which she de- wants, whether that be their native tongue, out), and other social anxieties often dis- Korites ’21. scribed how she saw a group of Chinese English, or any other language. courage freshmen and sophomores from It is reasonable to want a single. If you students speaking “very loudly” in their “I was walking around the campus, choosing to live alone. happen to get stuck with someone who native language in the student lounge area. talking to my friend in Russian, when I “I wouldn’t live in a single freshman disrupts your sleep, you defi nitely would She mentioned that she wanted to take heard the ‘international students’ favor- year, but I would defi nitely consider it not want to risk repeating that experience. down the names of these students and ite,’ ‘Common language in common plac- junior and senior year,” Lisa Chang ’22 However, living in a single can make share them with future recruiters and es, please!’” Veronika Berezhnenko ’21 said. you feel isolated. “I do feel left out some- professors. She added in the email that recalled. Living in a double has many benefi ts times, especially since I’m in Flagg with “speaking in your native language in the I respect the English-speaking envi- for a new student coming into boarding upperclassmen. Because of this I have department may give faculty the impres- ronment and the choice of a person to use school. “Having a roommate is a good fewer opportunities interact with other sion that you are not trying to improve English; why can’t ESL students enjoy way to make new friends and learn how to sophomore friends,” commented Tom. your English skills and that you are not the same freedom? On the other hand, if live with people,” Lisa said. No matter how old we might be, we as taking this opportunity seriously. As a re- my Russian friends and I are sitting with Especially at the start of the year, your high schoolers are constantly looking to sult, they may be more hesitant to hire or friends who do not understand our fi rst roommate often becomes an instantaneous belong, and the fear of being singled out work with international students because language, we would switch to English friend with whom you can go to meals or is universal. Having support systems and communication is such an important part to include everyone in the conversation. weekend events. Additionally, having a people to lean on makes you feel safe and of what we do.” She further advised inter- I can imagine how awkward and uncom- roommate eases the social anxiety that secure. national students to “PLEASE PLEASE fortable it can be when others are talking new students may feel because since ev- At the end of the day, your bond with PLEASE keep these unintended con- in a language you don’t understand in eryone else in the dorm has a roommate, your roommate is irreplaceable and is sequences in mind when you choose to front of you. That paranoia, “what if they students in doubles fi t in with the norm. defi nitely a highlight of the boarding speak Chinese in the building” and urged are talking about me?” may start to occur Another benefi t of having a good room- school experience. No matter good or bad, students to commit to using English 100% in your mind. mate is that you start picking up certain you’re coming back to your home away of the time.” We talk a lot about inclusivity. But xe- habits they have and implementing them from home, with someone to share your So how does this incident affect us? nophobia persists in our society, and the into your own life. For example, my room- experiences with. Loomis Chaffee, like many other schools appalling email from Megan Neely serves mate infl uences me to go to bed on time in the United States, has a sizable popu- as a harsh reminder. Lack of acceptance because she always goes to bed before lation of international students and has of and knowledge about other cultures 10:45 p.m. Without my roommate and been dealing with discrimination against should, in the big picture, shock anybody without her pushing me to be more con- minority groups. with common sense. Why should some scious of my sleep schedule, I would’ve Loomis has became a second home for languages be favored over—or, in some been a total night owl. our 105 international students—15% of cases, be considered superior to—others? Having a roommate also pushes you to the student body. All of whom are fully By the way, United States doesn’t have be more social, because you do not con- profi cient in English when fi rst admitted. an offi cial language. stantly want to be curled up in a room At Loomis, we can easily fi nd numer- with the same person. Moreover, if they have friends who come to visit, you can get to know your roommate’s friends, too. Tom Zhang ’21, who lives in a single in Flagg Hall, said, “I have confl icting feels about living in a single. It’s defi nitely nice not having to worry about conforming to the schedule of a roommate, but some- times I also think that it may be enjoyable Graphic by Julie Chung ’21

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Photo by AP Photo/Gerry Broome, File Duke Univeristy, a prestigious research university located in Durham, NC, is embroiled in a [email protected] scandal of discrimination against Chinese international students. 7 OPINION | April 12, 2019 Loomis Chaffee Log FOUNDED 1915 B������� D��� ’19 ��� L��� S���� ’19 Editors-in-Chief S���� P��� ’19 ��� M���� ��� ’19 Managing Editors ABOUT A����� C���� ’19 Director of Design The Loomis Chaff ee Log is Loomis Chaff ee’s offi cial stu- M������� P��� ’20 Graphics Manager dent newspaper. We can be found online at www.thelclog. J������ H���� ’08 Faculty Advisor org, and we can be contacted via email at [email protected]. Letters to the edior and op-ed piece submissions are wel- M������ C������� ’19 ��� ��������� Z���� ’21 N��� S������ E������ come via email. The Log reservces the right to edit all let- E���� L�������� ’20 ��� ������ ���� ’20 F������� S������ E������ ters and pieces for brevity and content. The views expressed J������ D��� ’19 ��� P����� I����� ’20 O������� S������ E������ in the Log do not necessarily refl ect those of The Loomis D���� C����� ’19 ��� ����� �������� ’19 S����� S������ E������ Chaff ee School. Unsigned editorials represent the collective N���� S������ ’20 ��� E��� G������� ’20 M������ S������ E������ views of the Editorial Board. S���� S����� ’19 W�� C������ E����� J��� G������ ’20 W�� D������� ADVERTISING A�������� V�������� ’20 Social Media Manager To advertise in the Log, please contact the Editors-in-Chief listed at the right. S���� W������: Natalie Halsey ’20, Jean Shin ’20, Anna Li ’21, John Howley ’21, Emma Devlin ’21 C�����������: Margarita Demkina ’20, Jenny Pan ’22, Jordan Korn ’22, Eliza Nelson ’22, Matasha Balingit ’22, Ryan Published by The Loomis Chaff ee School, Windsor, CT. Jones ’20, Lana Sheng ’22, Andrew Park ’22, Eric Song ’21, Mercy Olagunju ’22, Victoria Che ’21, Oscar Ye ’22, Hazel Le ’22, Noah �uinn ’21, Abby Cannon ’20, Brett Donshik ’21 S���� A������: Ariel Kayton ’19, Julie Chung ’21 DOES THE LOG MATTER? EDITORIAL “I think the press is incredibly import- culture or the athletics program or exces- we have achieved evolutionary change. rial Board wishes more students realized ant at every level [because] it’s a funda- sive leadership positions? Does what we “There is some value to adults having their own power. mental part of democracy,” Dean Liscin- say even matter, or are we shouting into life experience, but I think there is value We know that Loomis faculty read the sky said. And she’s right—freedom of the a void? to listening to student experience,” Dean Log. Still, the Log is a student newspaper. press is an important aspect of democracy. At times it feels like our voice as a Liscinsky said. And even if the Log has not been directly But what does that mean about the press newspaper has carried little weight or im- So perhaps instead of looking out- responsible for any major change, we fi nd at Loomis Chaffee? What is the role of the pact. Few things we have published have ward—at the faculty, at the administra- solace in changing the opinion or percep- Log at Loomis? directly caused change on campus. But tion—we should look at ourselves. Per- tion of even one student an issue. Loomis is not a democracy, but no maybe looking at the topics of student haps we should work harder to make our The Log does have the potential for a schools are democracies. Therein lies the voice from that point of view is too reduc- voice have a greater impact. large readership. Around 1,000 parents rub: if the media is an important com- tive—the issue is much more layered. The administration listens to the Log, and alumni receive a copy of the Log in ponent of democracy, but Loomis is not “I think the Log has defi nitely been but the Editorial Board wishes that listen- the mail—that infl uences Loomis’ percep- democratic, what becomes of the Log? a part of changing something,” Dean ing resulted in more action. Nonetheless, tion to the wider community. Likewise, Deduction would lead one to believe that Liscinsky said. “Issues most central to the more general student voice certainly the Log functions as a paper of record. the Log, therefore, is disposable, but the students the Log has covered. And I think has resulted in change at Loomis. Dean Each issue is saved in the archives; our Editorial Board disagrees. Even though just because something doesn’t change or Liscinsky offered a few examples. Stu- infl uence will remain through how the Loomis is not a democracy, the Log and change right away doesn’t mean no one is dents were behind changing the punish- Log has covered life at Loomis. The Log other outlets for student voice hold some listening.” ment for sex to a Level II, and for chang- is bigger than we are. infl uence—and perhaps they should hold Change is often categorized as either ing the punishment back to a Level I. The Student voice is undeniably a two-way more. evolutionary or revolutionary. We really walk-outs have also been largely orga- street. The Log is not as infl uential as we For the Log, we often wonder whether wish that we were responsible for rev- nized by students. wish it was or as we think it should be. what we print matters. Does it matter if olutionary change. From a journalist’s “I think sometimes students under- But that does not mean we—or any other we criticize a school rule? Will the rule point of view, that type of change cer- estimate the role their voice has,” Dean student on the Island or elsewhere—is, or even change? Likewise, does it matter if tainly seems more attractive, romantic, or Liscinsky said. We agree. The student ever should be, mute. we criticize the administration or campus worthwhile. We do, however, think that voice can be very powerful, and the Edito- NEW ZEALAND STAYS STRONG IN FACE OF ADVERSITY Minna Gao ’19| Managing Editor The New Zealand administration and she carried out her promise is laudable. thetic. Though notorious for lenient gun reform gun laws after the Sandy Hooks at- Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s response On March 18, Prime Minister Ardern an- laws and two of the ten deadliest mass tack and promised to push for a federal as- to the Christchurch mosque shootings is nounced a legislative ban on “all assault shootings in the world, U.S. still does not sault weapon ban, only to have it blocked arguably the most effi cient and empathetic rifl es” and “military-style semi-automat- have a federal ban on assault weapons and by Congress. response any governing body has shown ic weapons” expected to go into effect semi-automatic weapons. A regulation to How has an issue that comes back to in reaction to acts of domestic terrorism haunt the American public almost every and mass shooting in the recent decade. year receive such incompetent response? On March 15, an alt-right white na- How did New Zealand act so swiftly in tionalist attacked two mosques in Christ- its fi rst confrontation with mass shooting, church, New Zealand during Friday while we just can’t seem to get it right? Prayer with semi-automatic guns. The Some may be tempted to place the gunman murdered 50 people and injured blame on the current administration and 50 more, making the attack the deadliest President Trump, who seems to share mass shooting in New Zealand history. a similar stance on gun control with the I attended school in Auckland, New NRA. But the inability to amend the bro- Zealand, for two years before coming to ken gun laws lies in the deeply-rooted Loomis Chaffee. When I fi rst learned of tradition of gun ownership, in the heated the incident, I couldn’t believe it. I just frenzy of the gun control debate, and in can’t believe that such an atrocious act of the division of domestic politics. evil can take place in the peaceful, calm, As former resident of New Zealand, I sunny place I remembered New Zealand am mortifi ed by the attack. I’m also proud to be. Many of my middle school friends of the grace and empathy New Zealand posted their shock and grief on Facebook and Prime Minister Ardern has shown and changed their profi le picture frames in in the aftermath of the tragedy. She has solidarity. In some way, the attack shook donned a hijab, led a public mourning, my faith in the goodness of humanity and refused to mention the gunman’s name to my naive and hopeful assumption that do- curb the terror and to deny his desire for mestic terrorism can’t touch me; if New notoriety, and taken executive action. I’m Zealand, arguably the most uneventful AP Photo/Mark Baker, Pool sad to say that the current U.S. adminis- and welcoming country, is not immune to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, right, with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tration cannot rival the emotional thought- after a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the March 15 attack on two hate crimes like this, than no one is safe mosques in Christchurhc, New Zealand. fulness and administrative strength Prime from hate. Minister Ardern exhibited in helping her New Zealand has relatively lenient gun on April 11, less than a month after the ban bump stocks was signed over an year nation navigate this crisis. Let’s hope that laws, but has never been plagued by gun horrifi c terrorist attack, according to Ni- since the Las Vegas mass shootings took U.S. and other countries will be inspired violence or signifi cant acts of terrorism cole Darrah and Stephen Sorace from Fox place, and the legislation only went into by her example and promptly act to pre- until the mosque attack. Prime Minister News. effect this March. Often dubbed the “most vent further such catastrophes; it’s better Ardern promised to rectify New Zealand’s On the other hand, the way the U.S. has anti-gun president in American history,” late than never. gun laws, and the immediacy with which handled similar catastrophes is simply pa- President Barack Obama made efforts to 8 SPORTS | April 12, 2019

SENIOR ATHLETES TO MARCH MADNESS WATCH IN COLLEGE RETURNS TO Mercy Olagunju ’22 | Contributor HARTFORD Maddy Stevens ’19, a current Loom- is Chaffee girls varsity basketball player Noah Quinn ’21 and captain from Burlington, Connecticut, Contributor is committed to Trinity College and will continue to play basketball there next year. For the fi rst time since 1998, March “I am looking forward to playing at a Madness returned to the XL Center in high level in a very competitive league in Hartford for the opening weekend of the the NESCAC and also having the oppor- tournament. “We’re all saying to our- tunity to help lead the team into having a selves, ‘We want this tournament back,’” very successful season,” Maddy said. She Chip McCabe, marketing director at the added that she hopes to win a NESCAC Hartford Business Improvement District, championship with her team and ultimate- told the Hartford Courant in February. “We ly a Division III national title. want the NCAA to look at Hartford and Maddy is also looking forward to im- go, ‘This is a city that does it right, and we proving on the basketball court and as a want them to host this again,’” McCabe leader over the next four years. continued. When asked why she chose that team, This year the promoters of the tourna- she said, “From being with the team and ment made sure the entire city knew the coaches [at Trinity college], I can tell that tournament was coming as they plastered they are almost like a family,” and for that banners across the downtown area. There reason, she is, “excited to join a team with was no shortage of star power over the that family and loving culture lead by two weekend either, which generated excite- amazing and supportive coaches.” ment to attract basketball fans. “LC has prepared me to be a stu- Photo by LC Communications/John Cunningham Photo by Mercy Olagunju The NCAA tournament this year also Maddy Stevens ’19, girls varsity basketball Sam Tomson ’19, boys varsity lacrosse player. had Loomis connections. One of our recent dent-athlete by teaching [me] how to captain. manage my time,” Maddy explained. She alumni, Reggie Gardner Jr ’17, who spent said that she has learned that the main Maddy added. and the team. I was able to meet the guys his post graduate year at Loomis, made the priority is achieving success in the class- Showing her appreciation for her [from the team] and I know whether I play NCAA tournament playing for North Car- room, “then you’ll achieve success in your Loomis education, Maddie said, “Without or not I could be happy for the next four olina Central University. While he played sport.” Refl ecting on what she has learned, the preparation of Loomis and the support years.” only one minute and went 0-1 from 3-point Maddie said, “Loomis always taught me of the faculty here, there is no way I would Loomis has prepared him to be a stu- range in a loss to North Dakota State in the to always work my hardest and keeping be attending Trinity for my next four years dent-athlete through helping him with his battle of 16’s in Dayton, Ohio, Reggie had building upon your skills in order to make as a college athlete.” time management skills. a good sophomore season with NC Cen- you a better athlete, student, and person.” Sam Tompson ’19, from Bedford, New “It’s pretty rigorous here academically tral, when he averaged over 17 minutes Playing a sport every season has made York, plays varsity lacrosse at Loomis and — you receive a ton of homework every and nearly 6 points per game, and was rec- Maddy notice her improvement in her ath- is committed to Marist College, located in day, and you have to manage it with sports ognized this year as a Pre-season Second letic abilities, which has also helped her in Poughkeepsie, New York. for all three terms,” he explained. “It’s all Team All-MEAC player. basketball and school. When asked what he was looking for- about being good with time management Future top fi ve NBA draft pick Ja Mo- “By forcing me to be a leader on the ward too at Marist, he said: “Probably a — fi nding ways to study during the day rant with his team Murray State faced off court, I was able to become more outgoing good mix of the academics and lacrosse, in and late nights sometimes too,” he added. against the Marquette Golden Eagles, led in the classroom, allowing me [to achieve] general, that’s partially why I’m there but, Sam said that he defi nitely feels prepared by Markus Howard. Before this game, success both in sports and academics,” defi nitely, it’s a good school… [Marist] by Loomis to be a student-athlete in col- there was a lot of hype because of the Ja is the right fi t for me. I like the coaches lege. Morant versus Markus Howard matchup. However, this matchup fell short of what many hoped it would be and Murray State won 83-64 led by a triple double by Ja Mo- rant. AN INVESTMENT IN Earlier in the day in the fi rst game, num- ber 4 seed Florida St took on 13-seed Ver- mont. This game proved to be closer than expected with Florida St pulling away late THE FUTURE OF LC GOLF to win 76-69. Both of the games during the fi rst session on Thursday of action proved Elena Anderson ’19 | Sports Editor to be exciting for very different reasons. This winter, the Loomis Chaffee golf While the Loomis Chaffee golf coaches When asked what his favorite feature The second session of the day of action program acquired an indoor golf simula- do not have the certifi cations or knowl- of the Trackman was, Coach O’Donnell started off with number 6 seed Villanova tor, called a Trackman, through an anon- edge of a PGA Teaching Professional to responded, “As for the girls team, I think taking on number 11 seed Saint Mary’s. ymous donor. be able to coach technical changes in a they like the Closest to the Pin competi- The reigning champions, Villanova, nar- Since receiving this generous donation, golfer’s swing, they harness the Trackman tion. I mean, who doesn’t like being swept rowly squeaked by with a score of 61-57. the Athletic Offi ce has converted the for- technology to help their athletes improve away to St. Andrew’s for a fun team com- The fi nal game of the day on Thursday mer Fitness and Wellness classroom in the in ways beyond coaching swing mechan- petition!” was played by number 3 Purdue against Olcott Athletic Center into a year-round ics. While the Trackman Launch Simulator number 14 Old Dominion. A pretty easy indoor golf facility, featuring the Track- According to Coach O’Donnell, “As is undoubtedly a valuable player develop- victory came to Purdue Boilermakers by man simulator and a putting area. a coach, I like that we can analyze each ment and in-season training tool, it also a score of 61-48, led by superstar Carsen While the LC golf teams continue to player’s game, quickly determine areas has the potential to benefi t the future of Edwards with 26 points. use a net set up in Shimkus gym through- for improvement, and easily develop cus- the program by drawing more interested The round of 32 at the XL Center kicked out the spring for indoor practice (mostly tomized practice sessions to meet their golfers to Loomis. off on Saturday with number 12 Murray when the weather forbids outdoor practice needs.” When asked about the uniqueness State going against number 4 Florida State. and play), they augment this training with Echoing this sentiment, Chase Thomp- of Loomis owning a Trackman, Coach On this, day, Ja Morant couldn’t buy any sessions using the Trackman simulator, son ’21 said, “The Trackman will help O’Donnell responded, “At this point, only help from his teammates, and Florida St which can accommodate one or two play- me hone my game by tracking my exact a few peer programs in New England have demolished Murray State with a score of ers at a time. distances, my accuracy, and precision,” a launch monitor, but I foresee several 90-62. The Trackman, which displays the rather than focusing on its use in refi ning schools acquiring one in the near future.” In the fi nal game of the 2019 NCAA ball’s 3D trajectory on a projector screen swing mechanics. While Loomis remains one of the few tournament at the XL Center, the Purdue and tracks 26 different performance met- Coach O’Donnell has already witnessed NEPSAC schools to boast a Trackman, Boilermakers took on the Villanova Wild- rics, including things like clubhead speed, improvements this season from training this technology has the potential to be an cats. In a lopsided game, the Boilermakers face angle, and carry distance, is a tool with the Trackman, mentioning, “Our immense draw for prospective golfers. defeated the Wildcats 87-61, ending the that is used by players and coaches of all players are becoming more profi cient at Although the Trackman is only avail- 2018 champions’ season. That victory was levels of the game to help golfers improve controlling their distances and practice able for use by students who are members a sign of things to come as Purdue barely the effi ciency and consistency of their golf sessions are improved by the immediacy of the Loomis golf teams, the Athletic Of- missed earning a Final Four berth, losing swing. of feedback. When practicing indoors, the fi ce is hoping to eventually integrate its in overtime to number 1 seed Virginia in When asked how the acquisition of simulation makes our practice more real, use into the Faculty Wellness Program, the Elite Eight despite an amazing perfor- a Trackman would benefi t the future of because there is an outcome to every shot, though they still must consider how to mance from Carsen Edwards. the LC golf programs, varsity coach Jim just like out on the course.” properly train users and secure the facility. Throughout these six games hosted O’Donnell responded, “The boys and girls Chase cited self-awareness as some- The Trackman training tool, acquired by the city of Hartford, there were excit- golf programs have been strong for sever- thing he has gained from using the Track- through the generous donation of an ing games that showed off the superstars al years and Trackman is the ideal tech- man, saying, “My favorite part of the anonymous donor, is an investment in the of the tournament, whose performances nology to enhance our training.” Trackman is the ability it has to record all future of the LC golf programs, which not only helped their teams progress, but Having a permanent indoor practice of your statistics to help you know your will help continue the immense growth also helped raise their draft stock for the area will be an especially valuable tool for game.” the programs have experienced in recent upcoming NBA draft as they proved them- offseason practice and for being able to Aside from the practical upsides of years. selves by playing on a big stage. better simulate real golf in the early spring improving early-season indoor training, *Disclaimer: The writer is a member of when conditions are still too snowy or wet the Trackman also makes indoor training the LC girls varsity golf team. for courses to open. more engaging and enjoyable. 9 SPORTS | April 12, 2019 BEST COACHING MOMENTS 2019 Hazel Le ’22| Contributor “Joining the girls on a full-fi eld scrimmage” “Pelicans Powered by Passion” -Lauren Williams and Lillian Corman, coaches of JV fi eld hockey -Fred Seebeck, head coach of varsity swimming

“An incredible journey on a historic season” “Enjoying the team’s Founders League victory” -Jeff Dyreson, head coach of varsity volleyball -Andrew Bartlett, co-head coach of boys cross-country

“Players applying taught skills in games” “Players begging ʻjust one more shift’” -Koby Osei-Mensah, head coach of III soccer -Liz Leyden, head coach of girls varsity ice hockey A LEADER AND A LEGEND AN INTERVIEW WITH JADEN RISMAY ’19 David Choung ’21 | Sports Editor *edited excerpts of an interview with is also mentally hard because you know Jaden Rismay you can do it, but you don’t want do it because you don’t want to be put under The following dialogue is an inter- this much stress. However, the teammates view with Loomis Chaffee varsity athlete around you make [cross country] worth it Jaden Rismay. Jaden Rismay is a senior because they make running sort of fun, I day student who hails from Bloomfi eld, guess? [laughter] Connecticut. As the captain of three var- sity sports (cross country, swimming, and DC: Do you have a particular story track and fi eld), Jaden belongs to a rare about the hardest practice you’ve ever had pantheon of individuals who have been at Loomis? successful and a leader at the highest level of high school competition. Jaden will at- JR: There were a series of multiple tend the University of Chicago this fall as practices in swimming [with a set called a member of the class of 2023. ‘eighteens’] where we swim 3 sets of 6x75 yard freestyles, and it’s basically a David Choung: It’s pretty rare for hundred percent effort. You get a little rest someone to get captain in one varsity between each set but, during the sets, you sport, never mind three. How do you feel just feel so tired. Your arm is cramping about attaining this amazing achieve- up. Your leg is cramping up. People are ment? coughing, wheezing, and that’s making you breathe harder because you’re hear- Jaden Rismay: I think [getting captain] ing all these people struggling, and you’re has been a journey [laughter]. I really like just like, ‘I want to give up too.’ Every- being a three-sport captain because I get one just keeps going, though, and at the to know everyone, and I feel like all the end you’ll have chocolate milk, fruit, and younger kids sort of look up to me. I re- cookies to look forward to. ally didn’t think I would get [captain]. I just thought I would be a good example Photo by David Choung DC: As a senior now, what advice, tips, for kids because I’m not really an outspo- Jaden Rismay was a captain of boys varsity cross country, swimming and track and fi eld. or bits of info would you give to Loom- ken person. To be honest, I never really is students who want to try new sports or anticipated being a tri-varsity captain. I want to try the sports that you have done? thought maybe cross country and swim- DC: How hard was it to transition from JR: Defi nitely swimming. It’s during ming because I’m really invested in those sport to sport and what did you do to help the winter which means there’s no sun, it’s JR: Ms. Knight, Mr. Bartlett, and Seebs sports, but I didn’t think track because I’m those transitions? dark, and gloomy. Sometimes, you don’t are all great people. I miss Ms. Shimamo- not so good at it. I just felt really small look forward going to practice, but you to and Coach Cali. This may sound really in track compared to other sports. I didn’t JR: Transitioning from cross country just got to tough it out and get yourself mean but don’t do the sports if you’re not think anyone even knew I existed in track to swimming, you have to work up your in the mindset of ‘you’re doing this for a going to give a 100 percent effort. You [laughter]. Funny story, I was at a doctor’s cardiovascular system again because reason. You’re trying to get better. you’re don’t want to do something you don’t appointment the day of elections for track, you’re working different muscles which trying to get faster. You want to place at like because you’re going to be miserable and someone texted me “you’re captain” means that you’re really tired in the wa- championships.’ I also think you feel a lot and that’s going to [set] the tone for the and I was like “What. Really? Oh okay.” ter. It takes a couple days or weeks to get better going to [swimming] practice when team, and you don’t want to contribute back into shape. For running, it’s a little your teammates [are] around you. The ca- that negative energy. If you’re not feeling DC: You are the captain of three rela- easier because you can just run. Like, I maraderie that you feel is the reason why well, just don’t say anything [laughter]. tively different sports. Take me through ran during swim season to stay in shape I’m able to do this. I need people around I don’t know, just try to be positive even your personal journey with each of these for [track and fi eld] because going from me to fuel me. when you’re not feeling well. Be opti- sports. What made you decide to get in- swimming to running [puts] a lot of stress mistic about each practice and each day. volved in each of them? on your joints, so you can get injured re- DC: What sport have you been interest- For swimming, I didn’t always want to be ally easily. You want to continue running ed in trying? there, but I always thought about what it JR: I’ve always been a swimmer since I during swim season to stay in ‘running meant to the team, myself, and the coach- was 6 years old when I [took] swimming health,’ but obviously there is the cardio- JR: Water polo, probably. I think I came es. I didn’t really want to let anyone down. lessons and started to get involved in vascular component from swimming to to Loomis thinking I would play water swim teams at around 8 years old. I really running too. You [may] have good endur- polo, but I never got the chance to because DC: Sort of branching out from what liked swimming, so I continued to do that ance, but you’re working different mus- it’s in the same season as cross country. you said, what would you say to the ath- for basically my entire life. I have been cles again, so you have to build up that All the swimmers did water polo and letes who want to give up at the sport top 16 in the state for the [100 yard breast- strength again. knew each other, so when I did swimming they’re playing because its “too hard.” stroke] and the [200 yard individual med- in my fi rst year I had to learn everybody’s ley] I peaked when I was 14 [laughter]. DC: I’m sure you know being a student name. It happens every year when we get JR: Don’t just quit a sport because it’s For running, I thought it would help with at Loomis takes up a lot of our time. As new kids for water polo who are swim- too hard. If you’re good at it, and you my endurance for swimming, and I really an athlete, you would probably argue that mers too. I don’t get to know their names have the potential to do better, you should liked the people on the running team at my it’s harder for you to balance school and until swim season, which kind of sucks. just keep going. old school so I thought ‘why not?’ I nev- sports. How have you balanced those two er thought I was really good [at running], aspects of your life? DC: Between the three of these sports, DC: On the fl ip side, what about those but I thought I was an average high school which was the physically hardest sport for who aren’t doing so great at a sport they runner. I was thinking about doing water JR: Since I’ve been swimming my you and which one was the most mentally like, those who are growing frustrated polo when I came here, but I did really whole entire life, I think it has taught me a taxing? with their lack of improvement? well the year before at the cross country lot about discipline and setting times aside championship so I decided to stick with for work and friends. I defi nitely spend JR: For mentally taxing, defi nitely JR: Put in that extra work if you want running and see how it would play out for the majority of my weekend with friends, swimming. It’s just because it’s in the to get better. You might not see improve- me. Cross country has like sixty guys on but I’m doing homework from Sunday winter, and you’re already depressed be- ments now, but you just have to keep do- the team and unlike track, where you may afternoon to night. Then, every day after cause there’s snow on the ground. Okay, ing what you’re doing and, by the end of feel [small], cross country just feels like practice, I go to dinner and straight to the I don’t like snow. I like warm weather. the season, you should see some improve- one big family and inviting community. library. I’m here [at the library] until 9:45 Anyway, you’re just sprinting to class and ments. Like, that was me for every sport. As a new sophomore, all my new friends p.m. every night. I don’t go home because when you come out of practice it’s already I always get frustrated when I’m not im- were in cross country, and that’s why I I know if I do I’m not going to get my dark outside, so you feel like you don’t proving my time, but I know I’m going did track too because I thought ‘I can run work done, so I have this mindset that I’m have any free time afterwards. Physically to improve at the end of the season when again.’ I didn’t think of doing other stuff going to come and get my work done. It’s hardest? I would say cross country during I’m all tapered and rested. Just trust the because I’m really uncoordinated [laugh- hard but it’s defi nitely doable. meets. Meets are really hard because, de- process. Trust your training. Trust your ter]. I don’t really play sports with balls pending on the person, you’re running at coaches and trust that they know what [because] I can’t really catch or throw. I DC: Is there a sport in particular that 100% for 20 minutes, you want to give they’re doing. think that’s why I stuck with running in has taught you the most about yourself up, and it’s hot, especially at Choate. track, cross country, and swimming. and itself? What was it? Their hills suck. I guess [cross country] 10 MÉLANGE | April 12, 2019 HOLLYWOOD WITH HALSEY: US MOVIE REVIEW Natalie Halsey ’20 | Staff Writer Us opens quietly; white text reveals the existence of miles and miles of tunnels under the United States. Abandoned sub- way stations, maintenance tunnels, mine shafts, all left to rot. The next shot reveals a television screen, underlined by more text stating the year is 1986, and surrounded by clas- sic 1980s memorabilia. Ads for the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Hands Across America, and various other clips play. A young girl turns off the television, and stares into her refl ected image, and the fi lm begins, with every central theme of the fi lm foreshad- owed within the fi rst fi ve minutes. Jordan Peele’s Us had very big shoes to fi ll; Peele’s fi rst hit Get Out (2017) was not only incredibly successful, making $255 million dollars from a $4 million dollar budget, but also universally ac- claimed by both audiences and critics. Get Out was smart, scary, and funny. Us is also smart, scary, and funny, but something does not quite click. Where Get Out’s message of the fundamental racism of society was clear and to the point, Us’s message gets a little lost in the glory of its own world and metaphor. Us is a gorgeous fi lm. The shots are perfectly balanced, the colors comple- ment, charm, and almost court the differ- ent scenes. The music, unsettling in minor key and incomplete chords with plenty Photo by Greg Allen/Invision/AP of samples from classic horror, creates a The stars of Us (L-R): Lupita Nyong’o, Evan Alex, Anna Diop, and Winston Duke. perfect atmosphere for the unnerving, top- sy-turvy world of Us. with a horde of murderous doubles com- smoothie, with many, many rabbits as hokey stereotype of Native Americans for The scariest aspects of the fi lm come ing to kill their counterparts. However, garnish on top, is just a mess. And the fi - a mascot and theming. In 2018, when Ad- from the most real fears; the unknown, the world’s absurdity leads to a draining, nal twist at the very end of the fi lm, while elaide and her own family return to Santa losing a child, doomsday, mirrors, and sluggish fi nal half hour, in which the set- fascinating, required perhaps a bit more Cruz, the funhouse has been rebranded home invasion are all themes in Us. Com- ting is over-explained and overly detailed. explicit foreshadowing. to Merlin’s Forest, with Merlin himself edy is used effi ciently and often in stark While Peele’s previous work is praised While I did not agree with some of the beckoning as mascot. contrast to darker themes, making both for its attention to detail and meaning in story choices, I still really enjoyed Us. This change, while minor and unim- stand even stronger. The performances every detail, Us nosedives off the cliff of The humor was great; Winston Duke’s portant to the story, hammers home the are fantastic; Lupita Nyong’o as Adelaide believability and into the sea of stupid. dad humor had me (and the rest of the au- attention paid to detail by this fi lm. No and as doppelganger Red is an inspired Abandoned underground tunnels are be- dience) laughing constantly. theming as insensitive as the “Shaman’s performance, both characters distinct and lievable. Doppelgangers representing our Possibly my favorite part was a small Forest” would remain in the present day. contrasting. worst fears and faults are believable. Se- change to a setting: in 1986, when Ade- While some of the absurd themes of the The story, however, is slightly weaker. cret government experiments are believ- laide and her family visit the Santa Cruz fi lm begin to weigh it down, Us is still a While the setting begins as an everyday able. boardwalk, she wanders into a mirror fun- highly enjoyable and thought-provoking version of real life, it quickly descends But all these themes blended togeth- house called the Shaman’s Vision Quest thriller. into a funhouse mirror version of reality, er into a strange and hard to swallow Forest, with a terribly insensitive and

U.S. HISTORY COLLEGE “ULTRA”-CONFIDENTIAL: RESEARCH A FORUM FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS PAPER 101 Brett Donshik ’20| Contributor *PLEASE HELP!!! WHAT choices down to these two schools be- bet my chances are pretty good! Ashley Chung ’19 ARE MY SON’S CHANCES FOR cause I enjoy the ideas of both rowing and Crew(photoshopped)isLife: Good Director of Design YALE?????????—Posted by FrazzledCe- tennis, but I’m having trouble choosing luck! Please update us with results! leb122 between the two. Please help! 1. Start early! Brainstorm ideas FrazzledCeleb112: Help my son! He WellConnected305: Which sport are *Will I get into Williams? —Posted by about what your topic might be, and start has a 1.1 GPA (All Ds with the occa- you better at? Go to whichever school you YouTubeStar your research as soon as possible. sional D-) and a 560 SAT. He has always will enjoy playing sports at more. YouTubeStar: My dream school is 2. Utilize the caffeine at your dis- dreamed of going to Yale, and I really AnxiousBillionaireChild: Neither. Williams College. I have a 16 on the ACT posal—learn to live with coffee. would love to get him into the school. I’ve never played either sport. For that and Mostly Cs in school. I have no extra- 3. Set loud, obnoxious alarms in What are his chances reason, I need help choosing. curriculars. I would be willing to spend as advance of your impending deadlines, so $$$$$$$: What is your budget? It’s WellConnected305: Just base your much as it takes to get into the school. you won’t forget about them. hard to chance your son if I don’t know decision on which coach you are more Realist010: I’m sure you can try with 4. Find things to do when you are how much money you are willing to shell connected to/will take more money from some Williams coaches, but so far we taking a break from writing: doodling, out. you. You’ll be sure to receive an offer of haven’t had any proven results with that gaming, snacking, etc. IvyGrad60: I think your chances are admission and a spot on the team to play school on these forums. Maybe legally 5. Create a thousand playlists on pretty good if you have the right connec- whichever sport you choose. buy a building? I’m not sure anyone else Spotify to keep you motivated. tions. has tried though. May I suggest some 6. Watch history documentaries on FrazzledCeleb112: I’m willing to *Chance my Kids for USC--AuntBecky safety schools like Yale or Georgetown? YouTube to visualize the time period that spend 2 million dollars and I have a friend AuntBecky: I have two twin boys, RickSinger: Keep trying and I’m sure you are writing about. who knows the soccer coach Nikki and Alex, and I need help getting you can get a Williams coach to fold and 7. Familiarize yourself with heart- $$$$$$$: I would say Yale is a pretty them into USC. USC has always been accept a bribe. In the meantime, I would breaks—you are going to have many of safe bet for your son then! their dream school. Their stats are incred- apply to other schools like UT Austin, them throughout this process. FrazzledCeleb112: Great! ibly low (I don’t want to specify), but they Stanford, USC, USD, and any others that 8. Write many drafts! (Seriously.) really love partying hard and having a have proven backdoor entry through falsi- 9. Take naps during your daytime *Should I apply to Georgetown or USC degree would be amazing for them. fying your sports prowess. free blocks, and then stay awake until Stanford?—Posted by AnxiousBillionaire- What do you think their chances are? YouTubeStar: Thanks so much! I’ll 5:00 a.m. trying to meet your deadline, Child Crew(photoshopped)isLife: Your kids defi nitely let you all know whether or not which is the same day. Absolutely not AnxiousBillionaireChild: Help me are out of luck if you don’t know the crew I fi nd success with Williams or if I had to speaking from experience. choose a school! I paid someone to get coach. But if you do, I’ve heard photo- attend a different college. 10. Meet as many times as you can my SAT up to a 1380, and my GPA is a shop might be able to get them into USC. with your history teacher, and ask for solid 2.5, but I need to know which school AuntBecky: Ooh. My friend knows the their advice and feedback. You got this. would be a better fi t. I’ve narrowed my crew coach. I’ll contact her right now. I Good luck!

11 MÉLANGE | April 12, 2019

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE STUDENT HANDBOOK?

Andrew Park ’22 | Contributor

on any porch.”) any on

Rules: B FALSE two exercises should be the fi rst two as- or building, school any in or near quads,

signed; the student should negotiate dead- the within snowballs throw or balls; kick

1. Do NOT look at the Student Hand- 4. How many tardies result in a Satur- lines for additional major assignments in or bat, to not asked are (“Students A 12.

book as you are taking this test. day night study hall? advance of the original deadline. 11”) “Rule (See: D 11.

2. This test is designed to take less A 3 D Students need not report to the school.”) the for day) class (one

than 15 minutes. If it takes you longer, B 4 classroom until the bell rings, signifying hours eight work must violations I Level

please go do something more important. C 5 the beginning of the period, nor are they two accumulates who student (“A E 10.

3. Once you have solved all the ques- D 6 expected to remain after the period ends. space.”)

tions, go read the Student Handbook. If E 8 E Major evaluative exercises may wall total room’s a of percent 20 only er

you log onto your Loomis account, and go not be assigned in the two days prior to cov- may posters or (“Pictures C 9.

to the student portal, you will fi nd it under 5. TRUE or FALSE: If a teacher does any exam period. time.”) hours’

Essential Resources. not appear for class for 15 minutes, the ve fi and three between consume should

4. Once you have read and understood students are allowed to leave without any 9. What percentage of a dorm room’s class one for homework week’s A work.

the Handbook, go on living as a proud consequences. wall space are pictures and posters al- minutes’ 75 and 45 between require should

Loomis Chaffee student, and don’t break A TRUE lowed to take up, according to fi re safety class one for assignment (“An B 8.

the rules. B FALSE regulations? fee.”) late day per $0.10 a

5. Reward for a perfect score: a free A 10% with days 21 for circulate (“Books B 7.

copy of the Log! (Go on, take it!) 6. TRUE or FALSE: An advisor or B 15% room.”) orderly an keep to fails or classes

dormitory head is able to place any ju- C 20% rst-period fi missing of pattern a develops

The Quiz: nior’s or senior’s name on the breakfast D 30% student that if list breakfast required the on

check-in sheet. E 50% name senior’s or junior’s any place may

1. At least how many credits must A TRUE head dormitory or advisor (“An A 6.

a Loomis Chaffee student earn between B FALSE 10. If a student accumulates X number group.”) the dismiss

grades 9 and 12 to receive a diploma? of Level I violations, how many hours of will adult appropriate the present, students

A 12 7. How long can you borrow a book work must he/she do for the school? of list a compiling After Founders. in ce fi

B 15 from the library, and what is the late fee? A 2 violations, 4 hours Of- Faculty of Dean the to fact this report

C 16 A 14 days, $0.10 per day late B 3 violations, 4 hours should student one … minutes, for…10

D 18 B 21 days, $0.10 per day late C 2 violations, 6 hours appear not does teacher a (“If B 5.

E 20 C 21 days, $1.00 per week late D 3 violations, 6 hours hall.”) study night urday

D 28 days, $0.10 per day late E 2 violations, 8 hours Sat- a in result will tardies (“…six D 4.

2. What is the abbreviation for the E 28 days, $1.00 per week late Policy”) Over and “Age-18 (See: A 3.

warning signs that someone may be con- 11. What Major School Rule number is signs.”) warning

sidering suicide? 8. Which of these statements is bullying listed under? or FACTS the learning as simple as be may

A PLACE FALSE? A 2 helping in step rst fi your risk, at be may one

B FACTS A Students excused from school for B 5 some- that concerned you are (“If B 2.

C FIREY religious holidays should be allowed extra C 8 12.”)

D TRAIN time to complete assigned homework. D 11 and 9 grades between equivalents) course

E GHOST B An assignment for one class should E 15 (full- credits 16 of minimum a earn must

require between 30 and 45 minutes of student a diploma, a receive (“To C 1. 3. TRUE or FALSE: Even when work. A week’s homework for one class 12. TRUE or FALSE: You are NOT Answers: Loomis students turn 18 (or at the begin- should consume between two and three allowed to throw snowballs within the ning of the year if entering as an 18-year hours’ time. quads or near school buildings. old), they are not free of the expectations C Students are not required to com- A TRUE of the school. plete more than two major evaluative ex- B FALSE A TRUE ercises (tests or papers) in one day. Those

WHY ISN’T THE *WARNING* BELL RINGING? SATIRE John Howley ’21 | Staff Writer Liam Scott Friday, 3:19 p.m. the famous Macbeth soliloquy is not go- Editor-in-Chief You stare at the clock longingly, focus- ing to end anytime soon. ing on the sharp tick of the small hand as it Has anyone else real- approaches the four. Despite the approach- 8:46 p.m. ized that the soft serve ing freedom of the weekend, the familiar Is this what death is like? Am I in sound of papers shuffl ing and backpacks some weird Twilight Zone episode where machine is still broken? frantically being opened cannot be heard. school never ends? WHY HASN’T THE Why is no one getting ready to leave? BELL RUNG? You sit in your wooden “Honestly, I can’t remember a time chair dumbfounded. Asking to go to the when the soft serve machine actual- 3:26 p.m. bathroom, you plan to escape the confi nes ly worked. Frankly, I’d be surprised if I It’s been six minutes, and the teacher is of the Harkness table and run to safety, walked into the dining hall one day, and it still talking! You contemplate raising your but your teacher denies your request. You was working,” said a relatively indifferent hand to inform the class of the time, but only just fi nished Act I. senior. “But don’t even get me started on just as you bring yourself to do it, your the ice machine.” teacher begins to discuss the fi gurative 11:56 p.m. language in Macbeth, and you never in- You are pretty sure that your B2 class Lost: Tradition terrupt an English teacher when she is of English has become a hostage situation. talking about Shakespeare. Soon people will notice you are gone and Reward: Undisclosed sum start looking. Maybe they will send an en- 4:02 p.m. tire search party or get the local authori- One of Loomis’s most consistent tradi- Over 30 minutes have passed since you ties involved! tions has been lost. The photos of varsity were supposed to leave, and you still are athletic teams in the Athletic Center seem writing and re-writing random interpre- 8:20 a.m. Saturday to have mysteriously ended, starting in tive sentences. Why is the bell not going “BRRRING” the bell screeches harsh- 2016. What could be behind this? Who off? Why is the teacher still talking? Are ly. Apparently, since there was a Pelican would steal such a seemingly innocuous you stuck in an alternate dimension where Day, the LC administration had decided to tradition? school never ends? Are you going insane? let the bell ring to force kids to actually Have you correctly structured your appos- get up. You awake drearily as your teach- itive sentence? er gives her fi nal remarks about the last few pages of Macbeth and then dismisses Write for the Log! What else 5:30 p.m. class. are you going to do during The hunger is setting in. The walls be- gin to close in around you as you realize If only the bells had rung yesterday... your free time??? Email that your teacher’s dramatic recitation of Graphic by Ashley Chung ’19 [email protected]. 12