![Mural on LS Playground Removed to Join with the [EEOC] in Informal Methods of Conciliation to Endeavor by BRANCH SEIDENMAN ’19 Summer](http://data.docslib.org/img/3a9b374c66077ed5bb2a465b7850cfd3-1.webp)
THE September 26, 2018 theP park schoolOSTSCRIPT of baltimore | 2425 old court road, baltimore, md 21208 Volume 76 Issue No.1 PARK SCHOOL SUED FOR SEX DISCRIMINATION On July 30, the Equal Employ- ment Opportunities Commission (EEOC) filed a complaint against Park on behalf of Richard Schneider, former head coach of Girls’ Varsity Softball, on the basis of sex discrim- ination. Hired in 2014, Schneider’s contract was subsequently renewed for two seasons. However, the school, which renews contracts on an annual basis, did not offer Schneider a con- tract for the 2017 season. The EEOC claims that Park “told [Schneider] that it would not renew his contract for the 2017 softball sea- son because of its ‘preference for fe- male leadership.’” The EEOC claims that this decision was made in spite photo by N. Blau ’18 of “his satisfactory job performance, because he is a male.” Upper School Resident Artist Michael Owen, a noted Baltimore muralist, collaborated with students to create a unique mural According to the EEOC, Park was on the Lower School basketball court in 2015. Problems cleaning mold from the concrete prompted the school to paint over issued a Letter of Determination on the design this summer. February 12, 2018 “finding reason- able cause to believe that Defendant violated Title VII and inviting [Park] Mural on LS playground removed to join with the [EEOC] in informal methods of conciliation to endeavor by BRANCH SEIDENMAN ’19 summer. The weather this summer esting,” Tillman said. team, similar to last year’s in-house was particularly suited for mold and Resident artist Owen worked with renovation of the cafeteria. The reno- to eliminate the discriminatory prac- There’s something missing from much of the outside mural was af- a group of students across grades to vation reconfigured the upper level tices and provide appropriate relief.” the Lower School playground this fected. produce the mural in May, 2015. to add an office, and “freshen up the A voluntary conciliation was not year: the mural on the basketball “Pressure washing removed some “The [new] mud color is going to do space,” Breining said. reached by both sides earlier in the court. The school painted it over [mural] paint, but not all, so we chose a good job of not showing dirt, but to In addition, the Boys’ Varsity field year, prompting the EEOC to take during the summer. to repaint the [whole] wall,” Breining me, it changes the color tone of the got a new irrigation system, some- up the current legal action. The case “The playground wall needed to said. “We chose the brownish color playground,” Tillman said. thing that Tompkins and Girls’ Var- was widely reported in local print and be cleaned of mold and mildew and because it is a natural exterior color.” Other changes to the campus over sity Fields had also received over the broadcast media July 30, when the the most effective way to clean con- According to Visual Arts Chair the summer included a renovation to past three years. EEOC announced the suit. crete is by using a pressure washer,” Christine Tillman, the 2015 Diana the Lieberman Building, the stone New sound panels were installed The suit was filed under the Civil Lorraine Breining, Director of Facili- Lee Fox ‘75 Resident Artist Michael cottage that houses the Business and in the Middle School music room Rights Act (1964), which states that ties, said. Owen designed and painted the mural Development offices. to improve acoustics, and the Up- discrimination in employment based According to Breining, concrete, in collaboration with students. According to Breining, the reno- per School digital lab and art history on sex is unlawful. However, Park’s being a porous material, “incubates “I do think that [wall] being a lo- vation was done in-house by As- rooms also got make-overs to better stated employment policy is in accor- mold quite well,” especially when it cation where other artists could come sistant Director of Facilities Dino support students working in those dance with Title VII of the Act, and is in the shade during a wet, humid and do murals with students is inter- Profili and the rest of the Facilities spaces. can be found on the main page of the Park employment webpage. As EEOC Regional Attorney New Bruin bus provides transportation flexibility Debra M. Lawrence stated in the our tutoring students 25 minutes Commission’s press release: “Title by BELLA PALUMBI ’20 later than when we would if I was VII protects both men and women driving,” KIPP faculty leader and Co- from discrimination based on sex. The Bruin bus is back. The Trans- director of College Counseling Liz The law is clear—employers should portation department has purchased a Hirsch said. make employment decisions based brand new 14-seater bus that teachers This year, Hirsch is looking into on the employee’s qualifications, not are able to drive. The school did not once again utilizing the new Bruin gender.” have such a bus last year, and teach- bus for KIPP’s transportation needs. The lawsuit, pending judgment, ers who wanted to put together field The Bruin bus costs $1.25 per mile orders Park to: “institute and carry trips for small groups had to work driven, while the larger activity bus out policies…which prevent gen- with Transportation to schedule a ve- costs $1.50 per mile, charged to the der discrimination;” create written hicle and a driver with a commercial teacher’s department. A driver re- “non-discriminatory objectives” and driver’s license (CDL). quired for the activity bus costs the “conspicuously post” a notice to em- In previous years, there were two user an additional $25 per hour. ployees stating that Park “will not tol- Bruin buses for teachers to drive, as Last year, “Transportation actu- erate gender discrimination;” “make long as they gave advance notice, ally absorbed the cost of the driver,” Schneider whole by providing appro- registered with the Transportation Breining said. This cost deferment priate back pay… [and] compensa- department, and completed safety will not be the case for the coming tion for past and future non-pecuniary training. In July, 2017, however, the year. losses…in an amount to be proven at administration and facilities decided The school’s transportation policy photo by J. Acheson trial;” and to “pay Schneider punitive to retire the old Bruin buses after con- is that teachers give two weeks’ no- damages” for impeding “his feder- Teachers Tess Kysel, Mimi Cukier, and Katherine Socha check out the new bus. cluding that they were “in bad shape tice requesting use of the 20-person ally protected right to be free from cosmetically and mechanically,” Di- in the same year. But with this year’s teacher might want to drive students bus, and five days’ notice for the discrimination based on gender.” rector of Facilities Lorraine Breining purchase, there are now two options off campus. Clubs like KIPP, a tutor- Bruin bus. Representatives of Park’s Ath- said. for small field-trip planners. The ing project at the local charter school, “I am so glad that we have re- letic Department said they could not To replace the retired vehicles, a “Strive-On” 20-seater still requires a need to travel weekly. Last year, with- gained access to the [new] bus,” comment on the lawsuit. “It’s a really single, larger bus was purchased last CDL to drive, a restriction that blocks out the smaller Bruins bus, the club Dean of Students Traci Wright said. unfortunate situation, which we are year. The $56,000 price tag for the access for teachers, but the smaller tutors had to ride along with a regular “It allows for greater spontaneity. If working through, but because it is an 20-seater white and brown-striped Bruins bus allows teachers to act as school bus departure, leaving campus bursting the Park bubble is the goal, ongoing legal issue, I can’t say more “Strive-On” activity bus prohibited driver. at 3:25 p.m. it’s a lot easier when you have readily about it,” Head of School Dan Paradis the school from buying a smaller bus There are many instances where a “We were getting to meet with accessible transportation.” said. Editorial // The Postscript September 26, 2018 2 Production switch highlights our limited mental health education This summer, members of the admin- ing the play in an effort to protect students. ies of the script in April, which were loaned In “Students favor discussion of social istration and Theater Director Peter King However, by preemptively deciding that to students interested in auditioning for the issues over community action” on page four, changed the initial play selection for the students aren’t ready for those conversa- play. This means that actors would be able Addie Fleming ’21 draws attention to the 2019 Spring Production from O Beautiful tions, the school takes away the opportunity to opt out before auditioning, and audience- way we often discuss important issues in our to The Laramie Project. (See article on p. for a meaningful mental health dialogue to goers could refrain from buying tickets if classrooms, but rarely follow up by taking 6, “The Laramie Project replaces O Beauti- begin. the events displayed would be upsetting. concrete action. As Fleming argues, that is a ful.”) This choice reflected the group’s con- Mental health is not a topic we can af- We are not arguing that this content problem in and of itself. But if we continue cerns over the subject matter of O Beautiful, ford to neglect. According to the National should be forced onto anyone—rather, that to shelter ourselves from difficult subjects which includes date rape, abortion, ques- Institute of Mental Health, 20 percent of the opportunity to see these themes and dis- out of fear that our community is not ready tioning the authority of religion, bullying, people aged 13-18 have a mental health con- cussion would be available and beneficial for them, then pretty soon, we won’t even teenage pregnancy, sexual orientation, and dition, and suicide is the third leading cause to the community at large. have discussion. specifically, teenage suicide. of death among youth ages 10-24. The article, written by Ben Cohn ’19, It is worrisome that we are not ade- quotes Director of Wellness and Counsel- quately educating students about this topic ing Krista Dhruv: “We want to keep talking or fostering discussion, and it is confusing about these issues, but first in a different that we think a play that brings awareness format. If we are going to do this play, first to these themes wouldn’t help start those we would need to have education, and con- discussions. versation, and cross dialogue… I think there O Beautiful is not the first play King has is still so much work to be done in an educa- selected that deals with mental health and tive stance before we take it to the theater.” suicide. Examples in recent years include We couldn’t agree more that mental #AntigoneAmericanTragedy, Macbeth, health should be discussed. But what better Hamlet, Our Town, and for colored girls way to start a dialogue than by putting on a who have considered suicide/ when the rain- play that brings to light issues such as these? bow is enuf, to name a few. Both Upper School Dean of Students These plays have been well-received by Traci Wright and Dhruv expressed their the majority of audience members, and have belief that students are not prepared for this led to serious discussions by playgoers for kind of subject matter, but our education days following the productions. Instead of and conversation about mental health need backing away from putting on plays with to start somewhere. complex subject matter, we should be ex- Currently, issues of mental health are amining the ways in which we, as a school, photo courtesy of Nancy Dickson photo courtesy of Sofia Park covered as a part of the ninth grade Well- are dealing with the issues presented. Two prospective members of the class of 2036 arrived this summer. On ness curriculum. After this however, stu- As plays are a part of invitational cul- June 22 and July 19, respectively, Upper School Principal Nancy Dickson dents have no formal education concerning ture by nature, this event could be clearly and French teacher Sofia Park each welcomed a baby boy into their fami- mental wellbeing and illness. marked as containing difficult or mature lies. Meet William Wheeler Dickson (l.) and Isaac Ignatius Park. There is no doubt that the administra- themes when previewed at assembly, as has tion’s decision is well intentioned, replac- been done in the past. King purchased cop- New year, same philosophy The Postscript by ETHAN ADLER ’21 nally did: every board and mast was replaced. However, this does not constitute the ship’s true The Park School of Baltimore Over the past several years, every atom and identity. The ship retains the same design, the 2425 21208 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD molecule in your body has been replaced. The same functionality, and the same designation to Tel. 410-339-7070 fundamental building blocks of your body that Theseus. Through pattern, the ship is still the Parkpostscript.com define who you are are constantly changing. But same, despite being physically altered. September 26, 2018 you’re still you, right? Similarly, your body replaces itself all the Volume 76 Issue No. 1 After yet another summer that felt like it time, but no one would say you aren’t the same Editors-in-Chief would never end, we are once again ascending person you were three years ago. Your identity the front steps of Park School. Despite being remains intact despite the exchange of atoms Rachel Miller, Cici Osias, Zachary Stern one grade older, our routines and habits remain and molecules. You are still you across space
Commentary unchanged. Our return to school fared similarly and time. Your uniqueness is inherent in pattern News Anton Shtarkman Arts and Culture to previous years: the same fervent greeting fol- more than material. lowed by the quintessential awkward exchange The same analogy can be extended to the Bella Palumbi Ethan Adler, Asst. Ben Cohn of summer experiences and remarks of how tan Park identity. Every year we exchange new stu- Branch Seidenman Addie Fleming, Asst. Darya Zarfeshan, Asst. we got or how tall we grew–among most of the dents and faculty, even our very walls change: Liza Sheehy, Asst. Cartoons same people. yet we’re still Park. “I think [Park has] done a Sports Anton Shtarkman Callie Krosin However, all is not the same. Yet another se- really good job holding to our values, but we Features nior class has come and gone, another freshman have changed dramatically physically both in Addy claybour Jacob Peres Ian Greenberg class has risen to high school, another friend buildings and size of what we have available Quinn Seidenman Lucy Demsky, Asst. Faculty Advisers has transferred, another teacher has left. After to our students, to our faculty, to our commu- Talia Kolodkin, Asst. Jon M. Acheson Photography all, it’s another school year, and Park has yet nity,” Director of Athletics Robin Lowe ‘84 again changed. said. “I think there is a foundation that people Patricia F. Porcarelli Sonee Goles Or has it? who are new to Park learn through reading our Susan G. Weintraub The ancient Greek scholar Plutarch conduct- philosophy and talking about it and living it. School Population: Students—829; Employees—210 ed a thought experiment known as the “ship of Our philosophy and our values are so important Distributed to Mailboxes of Upper School Students and Employees, Theseus,” or “Theseus’s Paradox.” According to our community and to our outlook; and this and Lower and Middle School Students by Faculty Request Mailed to Current Parents by Letter Perfect to the myth, Theseus had famously sailed his is what draws people to our school, both as a Copies Printed—1400 ship in a great battle, achieving immense suc- faculty person or a student. I believe we have Member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Assn cess in victory. In triumphant honor of Theseus, held true to them.” his ship was preserved in memoriam. The Park body works much like our own. POLICIES As the ship grew older, the wooden boards Despite the ebb and flow of students and faculty, WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, UNSOLICITED OP-ED PIECES, AND OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS. PLEASE SEND gradually began to rot, and were replaced with or the constant reconfiguration of the build- WORK TO [email protected]. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT ALL SUBMISSIONS FOR LANGUAGE AND new boards until eventually the boat was made ing, the underlying pattern that maintains the LENGTH. SUBMISSIONS ARE PUBLISHED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE EDITORS. up of entirely different material. Was it still Park identity never changes. The philosophy is The Postscript is a wholly extracurricular publication of the Upper School committed to Theseus’s ship? At what point was it no longer preserved every year, carried through each era publishing truthful, objective, and high-quality content that informs the broader community. Our the same ship? of students and faculty. There will always be purpose is to hold the school and the administration accountable, and if we make an error, we The answer to this question depends on how another student ready to learn, another teacher ask you to hold us accountable, too. We encourage all members of the community to contribute you define the identity of a thing. Materially, the ready to teach. Park is ever-changing, but its to the paper by writing letters to the editor. ship does not have the same identity as it origi- identity is everlasting. News // The Postscript September 26, 2018 3 School year launches with new administrators and faculty by LIZA SHEEHY’21 This fall, the school welcomes new admin- istrators and administrative staff, following an unusually high number of departures at the end of last school year. “There were a number of positions, and I want to bring truly the best people to the Park community,” Associate Head of School Pris- cilla Morales said. “By best, I mean individuals who are committed to progressive education, [who] understand that students always come first here, and are really excited to be engaged in our community.” “I am so excited for this cohort of new fac- ulty and staff who [have joined us] for the 2018- 2019 school year,” Morales said. “I think they Leela Chantrelle is teaching Tess Kysel is teaching Core 9 are bringing a new energy and new perspective two sections of English 9 and Alpana Chhibber science, Robotics, and Python to our school community.” two sections Of Cross Color and Programming. Culture: An Examination of Mixed During the 2017-18 school year, former Di- Race. rector of Athletics, Jenny Brennan, took up the new role of Middle School Dean of Students. Brennan moved to a ski school in Vermont, and a unique search was undertaken for someone to bring new skills to the Middle School. “In some ways, we were defining the job while looking for the person,” Associate Head Morales said. Alpana Chhibber, from Garrison Forest School, has now stepped into the role. At Gar- rison Chhibber held a number of positions in- cluding Residential Life Dorm parent, Faculty Representative to the Diversity Leadership Council, and history and public health teacher. “She has teaching experience and has built student programming—which is really impor- tant,” Middle School Principal Josh Wolf said. “She has a great energy about her and it’s clear that she works really hard.” Kristin Jean-Baptiste- Malika DeLancey Mick Scott is teaching Core Simonne is teaching various 9 science, and Engineering for French classes for Sofia Park In the Lower School, Malika Delancey has an Equitable Future. Scott also through November. assumed the position of Lower School Princi- serves as Upper School technol- pal. Delancey came from McDonogh School, ogy coordinator and assists with Robotics. where she was the Associate Head of Lower School. At McDonogh, she had also served as Director of Diversity, Associate Director of Admissions, Director of The Middle Grades Partnership program, and a third grade teacher. “[Malika] is committed to forming rela- tionships, and we know that is what Park is all about,” Lower School Assistant Principal, Sil- via Patterson said. “I think that she will become an integral part of our community very quickly.”
Betsy Gerding
With Upper School Learning Resource Robert Gamble is teaching three sections of U.S. History to Segun Olagunju Teacher Karyn Fisher stepping into the role of Interim Upper School Principal, Betsy Gerding World War 1. has filled Fisher’s position until Upper School Stepping into a school-wide position, Segun Principal Nancy Dickson returns from mater- Olagunju is now Director of Civic Engagement nity leave. and Service Learning. Before moving to the Gerding is familiar with Park, having spent mid-Atlantic, Segun and his family previously time as a part-time Learning Specialist in the Evan Velleman lived in Johannesburg, South Africa where he Lower School from 2013 to 2015. was the Director of the Centre for Entrepre- “Her training and expertise as a speech Evan Velleman has joined the faculty as a neurial Leadership at the African Leadership and language therapist made her an invaluable new Middle and Upper School Counselor, re- Academy. member of our faculty,” Lower School Learning placing long-serving Middle and Upper School In South Africa Olagunju worked with Resource Teacher Susan Eisner said. Counselor Dave Tracey who retired in June. students to create student-run businesses and Gerding is a certified speech and language Velleman completed a school counseling intern- programs. “Segun is an innovative and forward- pathologist who has worked at The Lab School ship at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and was a thinking educator, with a vision that centers of Washington, Baltimore Lab School, and The Service Coordinator at Bard High School Early around students and ways to build empathy. Odyssey School. College. Krista Dhruv, Director of Middle and While Segun is inspired by a global perspec- Gerding is creating a “Learning Lab” for Upper School Counseling, described Velleman tive, it is exciting to see him jump right into Upper School students, a place where students as thoughtful and a good listener. identifying local partnerships and initiatives,” can work productively at school. “He also went to a progressive school as a Associate Head Morales said. Jenniffer Gray is teaching young child, so he feels like he has a little bit “There is no doubt that Segun will make two section of Spanish language of experience in what it means to be part of a strong connections at Park and within the larger All photos by SONEE GOLES ’20 courses. progressive school environment,” Dhruv said. Baltimore community,” Morales said. Commentary // The Postscript September 26, 2018 4 Transportation for preseason sports practice is a problem time, summertime, time that is away by TALIA KOLODKIN ’20 from Park and we don’t want to dip ’20, unable to get a ride from her par- into vacation time too much,” Direc- ents, had to commute from her job ong before the first day of tor of Athletics Girls’ Program and in Timonium using the light rail and Lclass, student athletes were Director of Physical Education Robin then have a friend take her the rest of already working hard on the fields Lowe ’84 said. the way to school. and courts for preseason practices. Wanting to get in as much work “Even then, I could only make it After a summer break that, for as possible, while also having to to half of the practices.” Palumbi said. most students, did not involve daily comply with heat index rules that do “If practices had been at a different drills and sprints, preseason is vital not allow extremely long practices, time, or maybe on the weekends, it for getting athletes back up to speed coaches of some sports, such as girls’ would have been a lot easier,” for fall sports. soccer and field hockey, schedule two Although preseason practices that Coaches use the practices not only practices per day, each lasting two occur in the middle of the day are of- to improve the fitness and skills of hours. ten the most inconvenient for parents, their athletes, but also to ensure that With one practice in the late morn- once the school year starts, athletics the team can play together as a co- ing and one in the late afternoon, ath- and transportation are once again in hesive unit. letes without driver’s licenses and conflict. Team-building is another impor- with parents who are unable to pick Athletes who need to take the bus tant aspect of preseason. It builds them up are left with a lot of time to home after practice have to take the trust among teammates, creates a kill on campus. late bus, a separate service run by the welcoming environment for new While students are allowed to pass company Kangaroo Coach. players, and may forge friendships the time inside the school and out of The late bus costs extra, on top that will continue into the academic the heat, there’s not a lot for them of the already pricey morning and year. to do. afternoon Park bus service. For new students and freshmen, “I was tired and I was waiting for Because athletic credits are man- seeing familiar faces in the hallways about three hours, so I found a cold datory, it creates a situation in which during the first few weeks can be a room and slept on a table,” Becky some students must pay extra to be real comfort. Scott ’20, a girls’ soccer player, said. able to take this special bus home Different teams have different Aside from the break between after sports or a gym class. cartoon by A. Shtarkman ’20 start dates for practices due to con- practices, even getting to one practice “I would hope that if transpor- ference rules. However, most begin can be a struggle for some students. son said. me off for the morning practice and tation was the one reason that kids around two weeks before the first day During her freshman year, field Lucy Fisher ’21 had a similar dif- I would have to stay at school until couldn’t make practices and put fami- of school. hockey player Bella Johnson ’20 had ficulty getting to her soccer practices. after the afternoon practices were lies into binds, that would be com- Deciding when to cut off students’ difficulty getting from her home in “I’m really lucky that my grandpar- over, Fisher said. municated to me,” Lowe said. summer breaks is always a balanc- Baltimore to school because of her ents live nearby, otherwise I wouldn’t “It wasn’t the worst thing in the While transportation is not inhibit- ing act, weighing the benefit of more mother’s job. be able to come [to practice],” Fisher world, but no one wants to spend that ing many students from participating practice time against the value of “It was about the availability of said. much time at school before they ab- in sports, it certainly can be a burden summer vacation. her being able to leave work, which “[Having two practices a day] was solutely have to,” Fisher said. on families, especially during pre- “We at Park appreciate family she wasn’t really able to do,” John- rough because my dad would drop Girls’ soccer player Bella Palumbi season. Students favor discussion of social issues over community action
by ADDIE FLEMING ’21 administrators, we are waiting for “I’m not sure that our schedule al- to requests. The more we know as mindset, in which one is arguing for students to take the initiative to act, lows students to be involved in events adults, the better equipped we will a specific side of an issue, and an in- here is no shortage of discus- and then we will follow their lead,” outside of school without them hav- be to do that inspiring and not just quiry mindset, in which one is asking Tsion at Park. We discuss in all Dean of Students Traci Wright said, ing to make some hard choices about the reacting,” Interim Upper School questions to find the best course of of our classes from English to math. but the instances in which this hap- missing classes or activities,” Wright Principal Karyn Fisher said. action on an issue. We discuss all topics and subjects, pens are few and far between. said. There is no question that if the If students and the administration but especially enjoy talking about big To students, discussion is the easy There are faculty that want to inte- faculty and the administration took alike can do a better job of putting questions and issues: gun control, the part, it’s working up the nerve to real- grate service learning and social jus- charge of the situation that something themselves into an inquiry mindset environment, women’s rights. ly do something that is hard. “I think would get done, but that is not part of then the action will flow much better. These topics have been the subject that there is a bit of apathy,” Wright Without being able our philosophy. If we could open our minds to the of many conversations in classes, in said. “There is a lot of intellectualism, to really see injustice... As a school we are hesitant to take inquiry mindset then all the pieces of advisory, in clubs, and all throughout but a lot less drive to do something.” and see problems up a stance on issues for fear of alienat- the puzzle could fall into place: stu- the school, but what have we actually Then there is the question of prox- ing members of our community. This close, we can lose sight done about them? Have we spent too imity. “We’re not in a great location is fair to a certain degree, but at some ‘Young people can much time talking and not enough for volunteering easily at various of them entirely. point enough is enough. time doing? service sites in Baltimore. We’re in “We have to know that some peo- do anything, have The general way of addressing this idyllic location where you’re not tice into their classes, and this would ple are going to feel marginalized if an incredible im- big issues is bringing in a speaker really seeing the injustice on a daily allow students to take advantage of we take a stand on a particular issue, pact, create amazing- and having conversations in advi- basis, unless you go home and you opportunities without losing ground but as a school, I think it’s important sory, but the train of thought seems see it,” Upper School French teacher in their classes. to know where we stand and that we ly rich projects and to stop there. Jenny Sorel said. This is why keeping faculty in- act on our convictions,” Wright said. enterprises...I want Issue after issue has arisen and Without being able to really see formed on tough issues and oppor- If as a school we could decide to bring that global time after time action has not been injustice being perpetrated and see tunities to act is important. It helps what really matters to us then it perspective and global taken. Something is getting lost in problems up close, we can lose sight social justice work to develop organi- would be easier to justify giving up the space between conversation and of them entirely. This makes taking cally within courses. class time for it and funding efforts reach here to Park.’ action, but who is at fault? The ad- action on issues even harder. A FACA over this past summer to tackle it. ministration or the students? Even if a student feels really pas- addressed these topics, and the group It would also make it easier for --Segun Olagunju, Director The administration makes it fairly sionate about an issue and is set on members plan to continue their work students to commit chunks of their of Civic Engagement and Service Learning clear that they won’t push anyone to taking action, there are still tough into the school year. time to something they believe in, do anything. As a school we don’t choices for them to make. With these skills, faculty and the without having to worry as much have any issues that we are outspoken There is not a lot of room in the administration can help to support about what they’re missing in school. dents would find what they truly care about, and we don’t outright support schedule for service work during the students in their work, but are also “Young people can do anything, have about and be inspired by faculty, the any particular causes. day, and missing class means run- better equipped to provide them with incredible impact, create amazingly administration would take a stand on The administration provides the ning the risk of falling behind. So the the inspiration and opportunities to rich projects and enterprises, and I’ve issues that matter to the school, and learning experience: the speaker, the choice becomes either service and ac- take action. “I think that the adminis- seen them do it. I want to bring that students and faculty would be able to presentation, the forum for discus- tion, or doing well in your classes. “I tration’s role is to absolutely support global perspective and global reach address issues and take action during sion, and rely on the fact that the think it just takes a real commitment, students in what they want to do, but here to Park,” Director of Civic En- the school day. students will take the next step, but and deciding that’s what’s important sometimes students need help figur- gagement and Service Learning, Se- As far off as we are from this goal as we all know, that doesn’t always and making it a priority,” Sorel said. ing out what they want to do, and we gun Olagunju, said. now, it’s not impossible and there work out. “I think Park students talk But is this a choice that we should need to make sure that we’re help- Olagunju also went on to discuss are still small steps we can take to a lot about the issues. Oftentimes as be forced to make? ing with that too, not just responding the difference between an advocacy achieve it. Features // The Postscript September 26, 2018 5 Devecka, Cochran return from inspiring Westheimer trips by IAN GREENBERG ’19 two middle-aged adults, and three how the Westheimer Prize has deep- young kids. Staying with this huge ly affected and inspired Cochran and Summertime has come to an end. family was interesting because I got Devecka, confirming the published Beachgoers have packed up their to learn a little Spanish by the end of mission of the award’s purpose: towels and returned to school, hik- the month,” Cochran said. “broadening minds and shaping glob- ers have made their way down the After their month-long stays, al citizens for generations to come.” mountain to return to work, and the Devecka and Cochran both made 2018 Westheimer Prize recipients, discoveries about their lives, and Sam Cochran ’20, and Rachael De- interests. vecka ’19 have traveled back to the “I mainly learned how much of United States. a reward risk-taking is,” Devecka The Westheimer Prize provides said. “I totally put myself out there, a financial opportunity for two stu- and I did something I never thought dents in 10th and 11th grade to travel I would do, and I loved every second abroad and do community service. of it. Earlier this year, Devecka and Co- Devecka made full use of her chran were the winners of the Wes- unique opportunity. “I learned how theimer lottery. to teach, dance salsa, improve my Devecka is passionate about both Spanish, and what I want to be when learning to speak and read Spanish, photo courtesy R. Devecka ’19 I grow-up: a teacher or an immigra- and engaging in social work, which R. Devecka ’19 taught both English and Spanish to students of all tion lawyer, where I would go into a led her to Cuernavaca, Mexico. ages, all while continuing to further her own studies of the Spanish service profession.” “I wanted to go to a place where language. For Cochran, assisting archaeolo- I could perform human service in a gists significantly inspired many new meaningful way,” she said. ologists. “I did a lot of conservation entire month. This helped her greatly interests. “I got to see so many of the In Cuernavaca, Devecka helped and restoration work, while generally improve her Spanish speaking skills. different things archaeologists do.” teach a variety of classes: Spanish learning about Incan and Pre-Inca “Staying with a host family was al- “It is not just digging around in classes to preschool students, English culture,” he said. most my favorite part of the trip,” the dirt; you have to look for the ob- classes to older students, and tutoring During their trips to their respec- she said. jects you find, clean them, and get sessions during the weekends. tive countries, both students had the Cochran stayed with a very large permits from the government. This “Teaching English was likely the opportunity to live with a host family. family while working in Peru. “Since job is a whole process, and it was most rewarding thing I have done. It Fortunately, Devecka stayed with they only spoke Spanish, I am still not just so fascinating to learn about it,” was very difficult, but it taught me a a family who often hosts students quite sure who was who in terms of Cochran said. lot,” Devecka said. who wish to improve their Spanish. relationships,” Cochran said. The prize was named for Julius photo courtesy S. Cochran ’20 Similar to Devecka, Cochran also They were able to help her with Cochran studies French and Westheimer ’31 and created by his ventured to a Spanish speaking coun- lesson plans and refine her Spanish- faced a steep learning curve in this daughter, Patricia Westheimer ’61. S. Cochran ’20 studied basic archaeology and visited Mac- try: Peru. speaking skills. foreign immersion. “There were In its second decade of funding chu Pichu, a 15th Century Incan There, Cochran performed a lot of While living with this family, three generations of families living trips for two Upper School students citadel in the Andes mountains. hands-on, manual work with arche- Devecka rarely spoke English for an at the house: a fairly older couple, annually, it is encouraging to see FACULTY AND CURRICULAR ADVANCEMENT Summer work involves artistry, interdisciplinarity, and study of ‘the quiet’ student by TALIA KOLODKIN ’20 says and painting, to making lamps at times, been sequestered in their ers’ jobs end on June 8, the truth is curriculum and develop their profes- and film-making. individual departments, but the fac- that they are in and out of Park all sional skills in order to improve the Every summer while students are ulty members who worked on the summer, working on ways to design school. off at camp, on vacation, or working Acknowledging that Park’s prin- Interdisciplinary Possibilities in the jobs of their own, some teachers re- ciple of self-advocacy and the value Upper School FACA are hoping to turn to school to create the best edu- that most teachers place on class- change this. cational experience possible through room participation can be a burden They spent their time brainstorm- Faculty and Curricular Advancement on introverts, one group of faculty ing ideas for classes and projects that Programs (FACAs). Whether focused members got together to address the fall under all six departments at once on developing their own skills or a issues faced by quiet or shy students and also came up with possible ways more inclusive curriculum, teach- in a project entitled “Why Are You to fit such courses into the schedule. ers from different grade levels and So Quiet?” Engaging Introverted Stu- Whether through an M block elec- departments come together for any- dents at Park. tive, a once-a-week interdisciplinary where from one to four weeks to dis- According to Katherine Arner who block, an Immersion Week-like break cuss and create. co-chaired the FACA group, in end- in regular classes, or even an entire The Artists at Work project gave of-course assessments and senior es- semester spent at a different location participating teachers a chance to says, students have frequently noted with a different curriculum, faculty practice their own crafts, so as to that they believe their performances from this FACA are determined to become better educators. During the have been undervalued because they expand and evolve the learning op- hectic school year, teachers don’t of- do not participate in discussions as portunities of students. They see a ten have a chance to make art and much as their extroverted peers. future which offers a wide range of cultivate their skills. Students who are more introverted classes that are not bounded by a tra- “For many years, pretty much feel less valued and have expressed ditional department, instead falling since I’ve been here, we’ve been talk- frustration at comments from their under a malleable and collaborative ing about how hard it is to balance a teachers that end in phrases such interdisciplinary department. “[An teacher workload, a teacher life, with as “...but, this student is so quiet in elective] would be one subject as the an artistic life, and a family life,” An- class.” investigative piece, and it branches gela Balcita, Upper School English By giving teachers polls about out and touches all different depart- teacher said. Balcita co-chaired the learning styles to send out to their ments,” Patti Porcarelli, chair of the Artists’ FACA project. students, introducing activities more FACA, said. “So, we thought: we have this suited to quieter people, such as beautiful place on campus, we have journaling, and educating the entire Mikey Guarraia, another teacher these amazing artists who are also school on introversion, this FACA is interested in creating classes that inte- teachers, so what if we created an attempting to redefine what makes a grate different departments, gave the artist residency on campus?” Balcita “good” student. example of a class on gentrification. said. The FACA drew on the work of “What if we looked at gentrification The teachers, many of whom Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The through the lens of writing, languag- were from departments other than art, Power of Introverts in a World That es, mathematics, the economy, and all Visual arts teacher Christine Tillman created “kaleidoscope party,” spent the week working on individual Can’t Stop Talking (2012). these different things?” gouache on paper, during a FACA summer grant project entitled Art- projects, spanning from writing es- Classes and teachers alike have, While we may think that teach- ists at Work. Arts & Culture // The Postscript September 26, 2018 6 The Laramie Project replaces O Beautiful
Wright, Director of Counseling and Wellness cative stance before we take it to the theater.” King and admin. Krista Dhruv, Head of School Dan Paradis, and So King spent the summer looking for a new Associate Head of School Priscilla Morales. work and came to The Laramie Project, by Moi- face difficult He gave them each a copy of the play, and sés Kaufman. The 2000 play is about University asked that they give him feedback in a few of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard, who dramatic choices week’s time. was beaten to death in 1998 for being gay. by BEN COHN ’19 “I loved the play. It was smart and clever, The Laramie Project deals with similarly and it brought up so many topics that are rel- heavy and serious topics as O Beautiful but Jesus supports abortion. evant to the lives of young people, like bully- may be less psychologically inflammatory. That’s just one provocative stance taken in ing, questions of sexual orientation, teenage The hate crime around which the play turns Theresa Rebeck’s 2011 play, O Beautiful. pregnancy, and mental health,” Dhruv said. exposes deep-seated ignorance and bigotry in In April, Peter King, Drama Chair and The- “I also thought it was timely for our country, small town America. ater Director, announced O Beautiful as the bringing up topics about political and religious “O Beautiful is a dark comedy. The Laramie 2019 spring production during the registration diversity.” Project is documentary theater. The Laramie assembly. But O Beautiful also posed significant con- Project is serious, and it approaches its subject King chose the play in February, looking cerns. “The themes of bullying and suicide with the weight it deserves,” King said. for something topical that would complement came up in our conversation, and how a play Neither King, Wright, nor Dhruv could discussions the school was having at the time. that featured the suicide of a teenager would im- imagine a specific way or time thatO Beautiful “[The play is] funny, but it’s got some hard, pact our community,” Wright said. “We talked could be put on. Currently, there is not enough hard issues in it. It’s got date rape, cyber bully- about the representation of conservatism, and support in place to put on a production like ing, homophobia, gun violence, and then it has whether it was shown in a way that was nu- this. “Could we be thinking more about mental teen suicide,” King said. anced.” poster by Ruby Elbert ’19 health and bullying? Absolutely. And we need The amalgam of issues is presented in the Even King agreed. “The topic of suicide to be doing that work right now,” Wright said. style of a dark comedy, making the tightrope gave us pause, because of the magnitude of tiful was seriously contemplated—was that a “I was disappointed, since I was psyched walk of touchy subjects even trickier. King venturing into that issue. That was something work prominently featuring teen suicide could about O Beautiful,” King said. “But then I redis- brought the play to Upper School Principal that none of us wanted to do rashly.” inspire students to follow suit. How and where covered The Laramie Project. It’s so amazing. Nancy Dickson to discuss before selecting it. The group met once to discuss their con- discussions about these serious topics take place The Laramie Project is beautiful.” He also attempted to organize a table read cerns, and ultimately, it was decided that the surfaced as an important priority in the group. The Laramie Project was performed by Bryn with large group of faculty. Unfortunately, play wasn’t right for the school. “We want to keep talking about these is- Mawr School students eight years ago without King’s house lost power last spring and the O Beautiful detailed subjects that have be- sues but first in a different format. If we were protest, though larger national performances a reading had to be canceled. come more of a national discussion in recent going to do this play, first we would need to decade ago were sometimes met with anti-gay As the announcement of the production years. Chief among them, suicide and its rep- have education, and conversation, and cross protest by Christian fundamentalist activists. schedule for the next year began to creep sooner resentation. It may remind some students of the dialogue,” Dhruv said. As for what this means for future controver- and sooner, King officially shared O Beautiful clamor over Netflix’s serial show, 13 Reasons “There was some concern that we’re not all sial works, Wright said that they can be evalu- as the production, but he had yet to discuss the Why. at the same place where we are informed about ated on a case by case basis, but this shouldn’t play with any other administrators. The most extreme fear—discussed both mental health in a factual way, about what to do stop the community from pushing the limits. “I In June, King brought together a group, in- after the release of the controversial hit TV when those issues arise,” Dhruv said. “I think think we need to think beyond what is safe and cluding Upper School Dean of Students Traci show and last June when putting on O Beau- there is still so much work to be done in an edu- normalized at other schools.” Three summer movies: impossible, incredible, and crazy rich viewing by ANTON SHTARKMAN ’20 two nuclear bombs. but prepare yourself for an epic scene set in a bathroom. I urge Mission Impossible – Fallout Although Cruise is always the star of these films and makes anyone reading this to go to the theaters and watch this in IMAX. With the sixth installment in the series, The Mission Impos- them a blast to watch, Cavill, a remarkable addition to the cast, No wonder it earned a 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. sible films continue to surprise. Walking into the theater with will surprise a lot of people. His mysterious bearded character my dad, I was expecting little from this movie, but we both left adds another layer to the film, making it more than just a simple Crazy Rich Asians with giant smiles on our faces. It is generally thought that sequels run-and-gun action movie. In addition, his arrogant demeanor When considering the top films of the summer, Crazy Rich get progressively worse and worse, but this film easily strays perfectly combats Cruise’s seriousness, lending for some hilari- Asians comes in as a close second. This romantic comedy follows away from that norm. Mission: Impossible – Fallout gives us ous banter between the two. Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), an Asian American economics pro- unbelievable stunts, moments of utter suspense, and spectacu- The plot is unexpected, the acting is superb, but the cinema- fessor living in Brooklyn, who travels with her boyfriend, Nick larly choreographed fight scenes, keeping the franchise fresh. tography steals the show. Cinematographer Rob Hardy did an Young (Henry Golding) to his friend’s wedding in Singapore. In Fallout, Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise, of course) must amazing job, as this film is downright gorgeous. In a span of two When the couple arrives in Singapore, we learn Nick’s secret: team up with CIA agent August Walker (brilliantly performed by hours and 28 minutes, we see a barrage of car chases, amazing he comes from an extremely wealthy family and is adored by Henry Cavill) to prevent a group of anarchists from detonating fights, and a helicopter pursuit. Finally, I won’t spoil it for you, every woman in the country. Rachel now has to deal with jealous bachelorettes, but even worse, Nick’s disapproving mother. A blockbuster movie with THREE NEW ALBUMS REVIEWED FOR YOUR EARS an entirely Asian-American cast is refreshing to see, and it is by BEN COHN ’19 very enjoyable to watch. Mitski Be The Cowboy: “Cause nobody butters me up a stray/I talk to God today/All dogs go to heaven,” Whack’s “Pet Although I was seated in the front row – the theater was that like you, and/Nobody f***s me like me.” In two lines, we’ve Cemetery” track tries to make sense of the death of her close packed - I endured the pain because the movie was that great. been told everything we need to know about this relationship. friend, bringing new heartache to the term of endearment ‘dawg.’ Ken Jeong as Goh Wye Mun was a standout, although he had too It’s astounding. Mitski has found the It’s been said that brevity is the soul few scenes. His memorable character made the film hilarious. In fundamental truth of an entire dynamic, of wit, but on Whack World, the short addition to the interesting story and great acting, the film itself is leaving us with two pointed insights, length breeds both humor and pain. beautiful. Vanja Černjul as the cinematographer did a spectacular the first stabbing us in the gut and the job capturing Singapore’s rich culture and the vibrant colors. second twisting the knife 720 degrees. Let’s Eat Grandma I’m All Crazy Rich Asians is definitely worth your time. This economical indie rock songwriting Ears: Your English teacher’s favor- is typical Mitski. Between country out- ite grammar joke is now a band! And Incredibles 2 ings and disco dirges, she finds the heart they’re good! With an experimental Last but definitely not least,Incredibles 2 completes this list. of broken people. Be The Cowboy is electro edge that’s both abrasive and After 14 years, director Brad Bird has rejuvenated the beloved full of lines like this: simple and loaded wildly fun, the English duo, both of Incredibles with this wonderful sequel. The Supers are back, but with sadness. whom are younger than most juniors, this time Helen is in the forefront, while Bob stays at home and write about love and adolescence and looks after their kids: Dash, Violet, and Jack-Jack. Tierra Whack Whack World: technology with an observational eye As a new villain comes from the shadows, the team must 15 tracks, 15 minutes. The songs on sharper than the barbs they hurl at ex- assemble once more, with the help of Frozone to take down the Tierra Whack’s hip hop debut stop as friends and creepy guys. threat. Foremost, the animation in this film is top notch – every- soon as they start. And yet, Whack is “I was feeling quite right like this as thing looks clean and fresh. The dialogue is quirky, yet charming, able to pack catchy hook after hook into image courtesy of bandcamp.com the lightning glitched and it echoed/in but what really made this film unforgettable were the hilarious these songs, alongside surreal observations about black woman- your eyes, beating right through the denim/You left a dent in my scenes with Jack-Jack. Discovering the 17 different super powers hood. Whack has a restless energy that’s as intoxicating as it is home screen,” they sing on standout “Falling Into Me.” Pop is which Jack-Jack possesses is definitely the highlight. Incredibles beguiling. Rapping “They took my dog away/They treat him like rarely this smart. 2 faced the challenge of living up to the 14-year hype, and it not only meets those expectations, it surpasses them. Sports // The Postscript September 26, 2018 7 FALL UPDATES RIVALRY
Girls’ Varsity Tennis (0-1) DAY by CALLIE KROSIN ’21 With the loss of four of last year’s seniors, Girls’ Varsity Tennis is facing many new chang- es this season. Battling dire weather conditions 10. 13. 18 that resulted in postponed matches and a ma- jority of their practices being held indoors, the team’s first match was on September 20. Many of the early indoor practices were centered Schedule of events: around conditioning. Another major change is coaching. Coach 9:00 a.m. MS Girls’ Field Hockey Deja Stewart, who coached the Boys’ Varsity 10:00 a.m. MS Girls’ Soccer team to a championship last year, took over as head coach this fall. 11:00 a.m. Boys’ & Girls’ Varsity XC at “Coach Deja has a unique approach that has Gunpowder Falls State Park prepared us mentally and physically for our matches this season,” returning Varsity player 11:00 a.m. Boys’ JV Soccer Rebecca Himelfarb ’21 said. 11:15 a.m. Girls’ Varsity/JV Tennis As one of Park’s only A-Conference teams, 12:30 p.m. Girls’ Varsity Soccer Tennis hopes to defeat some of the challenging opponents this season brings. 2:00 p.m. Boys’ Varsity Soccer 3:30 p.m. Girls’ Varsity Field Hockey
photo by Noah Blau ’18 Will Tucker ’19 runs with a Friends outside midfielder during Boys’ Varsity Soccer’s game at Kelly Field versus Friends at Rivalry Day last October. This year, Park teams travel down to Charles Street for the annual day of competition versus the Quakers. The Bruins hope, for the third year in a row, to take home the coveted Rivalry Day Cup. Girls’ Varsity Soccer Girls’ Varsity Field Hockey Boys’ Varsity Cross Country (0-0) (3-2) (0-0) by JACOB PERES ’21 by ZACHARY STERN ’19 by QUINN SEIDENMAN ’21 After winning back-to-back Conference Girls’ Varsity Field Hockey has a 23-3 re- The Bruins are feeling good about their Championships in the C-Conference, Girls’ Var- cord and back-to-back championship banners to training ahead of their October 9 conference sity Soccer will be moving up into the B-Con- show for its two-year stint in the C-Conference; opener. Freshman Noah Cyr ’22 has impressed ference this year. While this year will provide now it’s time to move on to bigger and better in the preseason. Along with experienced se- Three summer movies: impossible, incredible, and crazy rich viewing tougher competition, the team is still up to the things. niors such as Finn Council, Peter Luljak, Mat- task. The Bruins’ B-Conference debut comes Early on in their 2018 campaign, the Bruins thew Hudes and Zach Zaiman, the team should at home on September 26 against Bryn Mawr. have already found that the competition in the improve from its fourth place finish last year. B-Conference won’t roll over as easily. Girls’ Varsity Cross Country Boys’ Varsity Soccer Following a strong debut victory in its sea- (2-1) son opener against Indian Creek, the team was (0-0) by CALLIE KROSIN ’21 hit by reality in the form of a 6-1 thrashing at by ZACHARY STERN ’19 This season is a new beginning for Boys’ the hands of Severn. Last year’s team just missed out on back-to- Varsity Soccer after last year’s disappointing, The Bruins lost many talented players back C-Conference championships. This year’s injury-plagued season ended with a losing re- from last year, but led by senior captains Syd- squad welcomes a group of young new runners, cord and a seat at home for the playoffs. ney Lowe, Cici Osias, and Caitlin Price, and led by senior captains Amit Jakob and Maeve With skilled returning players, valuable ad- aided by a wealth of young talent, coach Kara Thistel, as well as All Conference runner Julia ditions, and a new head coach in Gabe Kuhn, Hickock’s squad should still be able to hold Luljak ’19. The Bruins are confident they can the team is expecting a successful season. its own. make up for the loss of last year’s seniors. photo courtesy Carolyn Summers Death of Jordan McNair and extreme weather direct greater attention to ‘heat protocols’ by QUINN SEIDENMAN ’21 There are conflicting reports over we’re doing right by our student ath- pins’ emotional environment played a I think in general it’s pretty solid,” what happened on the field, but Mary- letes,” Lowe said. role in the incident is the other main Lowe said. Whether it’s the disappointed land acknowledged that their training Many in the Bruins community facet in evaluating McNair’s death. Part of the responsibility to pre- grumbling of a Cross Country runner staff mishandled the situation. weren’t aware of the existing heat An ESPN report published August vent injuries lies with student-ath- waking up early, or the rumbling of a The horrific tragedy of McNair’s policies, but now they are conve- 10 claimed that a “toxic culture” ex- letes who make up our teams. Wheth- soccer player’s stomach anticipating death has been causing huge issues niently posted in the hallway lead- isted under Maryland Football Head er it be speaking up for yourself or dinner during a 5:00-6:30 practice, for UMD, but it also forces every ing towards the weight room. A step Coach D.J. Durkin, and that “there for a teammate, it’s critical that Park it’s safe to say that many students school to re-evaluate, change, or in the direction of transparency is a is a coaching environment based on continues the culture of looking out have been forced to alter their rou- clarify its own heat policies. wise choice. fear and intimidation.” for one another. tines to accommodate the frequent “The situation at Maryland is not “We made it easier for coaches, Rick Court, the team’s strength “I think we take care of each changes in practice schedule. the reason we are making adjust- athletes, and the entire community and conditioning coach, was the other better than anywhere else I’ve Modifications in the athletics ments to the practice schedule. The to understand the policies by making main subject of reporting in the press, worked,” Lopez said. “For physical calendar can be hard for athletes and changes are a result of following our posted signs that lay out everything and he has since left the university’s injuries, pay attention to your team- their families, but when it comes to protocol,” Director of Athletics-Girls’ that we do,” Athletics Trainer Dan employment. With his departure, the mates and if they’re not behaving weather health protocol, decisions Programs Robin Lowe ’84 said. Lopez said. university acknowledged that they like the person you know them to be, have to be made. The safety of stu- For Park’s athletic department, The question is unavoidable: accepted “legal and moral responsi- speak up and tell somebody.” dent-athletes far outweighs the incon- the reaction wasn’t about making could a tragedy like McNair’s death bility for the mistakes made” in Mc- Our sports teams are not any- veniences of time changes. changes, it was about re-evaluating happen here? Nair’s death. where near college football’s level The issue of excessive heat feels and increasing awareness of the cur- While the Bruins don’t toss Both Lopez and Lowe agreed that of intensity, but that doesn’t mean especially important due to the death rent weather policies. around the pigskin for a multitude of they are not extremely concerned that heat-related illnesses or toxic of former McDonogh and University “I don’t think anything has other reasons, it makes the discussion about bad team dynamics or over- environments can’t be an issue here. of Maryland (UMD) offensive line- changed about the heat protocol, but about weather safety and team envi- zealous coaching leading to climate With enhanced awareness of pro- man Jordan McNair. After suffering we have added a few bullets for clar- ronments a lot easier. “I think we’re related injuries on our fields. tocols and the recent extreme weather a heat stroke during a May 29 condi- ity. I think the unfortunate incident at a far more tolerant community than a “We’re constantly looking at the presenting an opportunity to see them tioning workout, McNair died June Maryland makes you want to double collegiate football team,” Lopez said. sports culture and how that plays out in action, the Bruins are working to- 13 at the age of 19. and triple check to make sure that Concerning rumors that the Terra- at Park. We can always get better, but wards healthier and stronger seasons. Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage ON DECK: Paid Sports Permit #1262 SEP. Boys’ Varsity Soccer Baltimore, MD The ostscript vs. Severn P 28 @ Kelly Field 4:15 PM September 26, 2018 Page 8 A tale of two cultures: The historically bad Orioles & the upward trending Bruins THREE by JACOB PERES ’21 Offensively, the O’s were not much better, seasons, however, attendance has dropped back as the team batting average hovered below .240 down again. POINTER There is no easy way around it: the 2018 for the majority of the season. The Orioles have a bad reputation among You gotta play to win Baltimore Orioles are atrocious. As a proud fan By the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, the more casual local fans, but they aren’t the for my entire life, this is the one time I am actu- the season took a turn for the worse. Duquette only team in Baltimore trying to dispel nega- The Presidential Transition Act of 1963 ally looking forward to the end of the season acted on the fact that the Orioles were pathetic, tive stigma. Park is generally thought of as a promotes the “orderly transfer of the execu- this coming Sunday. so we were sellers. And we sold. And sold. And C-Conference school throughout the greater tive power.” If only there were such standards Almost nothing went right for the team this sold some more. Machado? Gone. Schoop? Baltimore area, but this is far from the truth. in the changing of powerhouses in sports. All year. Heading into Spring Training, fans were Gone. Gausman, O’Day, Britton, and Brach? Sixty per cent of varsity athletic teams play dynasties eventually pass the torch to a bud- anticipating a competitive team in Baltimore. All gone. in the B-Conference, and those teams aren’t just ding young team. Examples range from the All-Star Shortstop Manny Machado, al- At this point, the O’s embraced the rebuild. participating, they’re competing. The Bruins ’80’s Lakers and Celtics passing the torch to though coming off a down year in which he The days of Manny making spectacular throws have won seven championships in the past two the ’90’s Bulls, to the future shift from Tom batted only .259, was still a top five player in across the diamond are over. For a minimum of years alone, but Park still has the reputation of Brady’s Patriots to Lamar Jackson’s Ravens. Major League Baseball (MLB). The always reli- five years, the Orioles will not make the play- being a less competitive school. This transfer of power is a part of sports. able Adam Jones – playing his 10th season in offs. They will be nowhere remotely close. Director of Athletics - Girls’ Programs and In the case of Baltimore’s Saint Frances foot- center field – and Jonathan Schoop at second This realization is starting to sink in. Four Director of Physical Education Robin Lowe ’84 ball team, however, there has been substantial base seemed poised for a breakout campaign. years ago, weekend games would be sold out, thinks the stigma comes from predetermined resistance to their time at the top. Starting pitching was a concern heading yet Camden Yards is now often less than half stereotypes. “I think there are fallacies about The Saint Frances Panthers were declared into the year, but every school perpet- Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Associa- General Manager uated by people who tion (MIAA) A-Conference champions a Dan Duquette EARNING A LOSING REPUTATION? are uninformed.” month before the season even began. All signed two qual- Director of Ath- of their conference opponents, including ity starters in the The O’s The Bruins letics - Boys’ Pro- schools such as McDonogh, Mount Saint off season: Alex grams Dia Clark Joseph, and Archbishop Spalding, refused to play the Panthers, therefore making them Cobb and Andrew 0 World Series Championships since 1984. 7 Conference Championships since 2016. ’06 agrees. “We Cashner. Alongside only have a few of champions by default. homegrown pitch- our teams in the Following a winless season three years ers Dylan Bundy 5.21 ERA as of 9/17 (Worst in MLB). 247 All-Conference athletes since 2009. C-Conference, but ago, the Saint Frances team, under ex-Gilman and Kevin Gaus- sports are based on coach Biff Poggi, suddenly became a domi- man, the starting 3 MLB Playoff appearances since 1998. 15 athletes named to U.S. Lacrosse Aca- competition, so that nant force within the MIAA, winning back- rotation appeared demic All-America Team since 2010. fact is something to-back championships in 2016 and 2017. to be of respectable that’s looked down Without local competition, the Panthers quality. .289 win percentage as of 9/17 (15th worst 60% of varsity teams compete in the upon. That [reputa- are forced to play a non-conference, national Although Zach of all time since 1900). B-Conference. tion] is going to be schedule this season, featuring teams from all Britton was injured, something that fol- across the country. Brad Brach, Darren O’Day, and Mychal Givens full on any given night. Ticket prices have lows us until we have no teams left in the C Saint Frances is effectively being required provided a seemingly strong bullpen. The big- dropped dramatically, too. [Conference].” to spend extra time and money playing out of gest question mark was Chris Davis, who led There is something to be said about those While the consensus is clear within the state teams who are willing to suit up against the MLB in home runs between 2013-2017, but few loyal fans who still attend games, those school, the stereotype that Park has a less com- them. The issue is not the national schedule, is very strikeout prone. diehards who stick it out every night listening petitive athletic environment may be hard to but rather, it’s the notion that the Panthers On paper the 2018 Baltimore Orioles looked to Gary Thorne’s terrible announcing. break. As proven by the Orioles, reputations have to play teams from around the country. like a plausible playoff contender. But this was Those few fans are a special breed, but there tend to stick until something drastic happens. If a school elects to travel for its road not the case. is a reason that the majority decide to skip the Rivalry Day has been great for improving schedule, that choice should be theirs to Chris Davis had one of the worst seasons by games: the losing culture has returned. the image of Park sports, and the student-run make. By forfeiting games against the Pan- a player in the history of the MLB. It seemed The Baltimore Orioles have not won a World Bruin Athletic Council has helped as well. thers, the Maryland private schools are es- as though he forgot how to make contact with Series in over 35 years, and had a record be- “We’re moving in the right direction,” Lowe sentially forcing Saint Frances to go out of a pitch. low .500 every year between 1998 and 2011. In said. state if they want to actually play football. The starting rotation was the worst in the 2012, the Orioles finally made the playoffs, and With continued dedication, it won’t be long While schools claim that their refusal to majors, totaling a 5.25 ERA at the time of this attendance spiked, jumping nearly 50 percent. before the C-Conference reputation is a thing play the Panthers comes from fear of injury publication. After missing the playoffs for the past two of the past. to their own players, these decisions are not without controversy, and have been covered since last spring in local and national media outlets, including ESPN. In any case, the de- cision is inexcusable. Choosing to play in the A conference is a A LOOK OUTSIDE: QUENTIN BROWN ’22 commitment to compete at the highest level. by CALLIE KROSIN ’21 as a safety, find the gap in the coverage as a No team should forfeit because the competi- quarterback, and know what move gives you the tion is too good; this defeats the purpose of Football is not a sport that you’ll find many best chance of gaining yards as a wide receiver sports. Bruins play outside of school; Quentin Brown or running back,” he said. In any game, each team always has a ’22 is an exception. Although the game is physically and men- chance to win. With some programs forfeit- Brown’s been playing for six years, spend- tally demanding, Brown still loves it. ing, however, competition is lost. All pow- ing time as a member of the Sandtown Bears One of his favorite aspects of football is how erhouses, including Saint Frances, will lose and the Charm City Buccaneers. significant one can be by making small contri- eventually. Brown was urged to start playing by his fa- butions. Blocking for a teammate or being a Gilman’s football team, under Coach ther, and he decided to join a team as many of decoy so someone else can get open may often Poggi, was once dominant, winning 13 his classmates were doing the same. go unnoticed but are vital to a play’s success. championships over the course of 19 years. Initially, he played running back, but as his It might be early in his career but Brown’s The Park Mock Trial team was unstoppable, football career progressed, he made his way to current goal is to play on a collegiate team. yet the Bruins lost in the state quarterfinals the wide receiver position. He believes the game has made him a bet- last season. According to Brown, playing football re- ter athlete, and he advises anyone who doesn’t All dynasties eventually come to an end. photo by Sonee Goles ’20 quires strategy and game-time planning, with already watch football to start. If a school does not want to play against a Q. Brown ’22 has been playing foot- different levels of it depending on the position. “In my opinion, it is one of the greatest team that is at the highest level of skill, they, ball for six years. “You have to be able to read the other team sports ever played.” and not the winning team, should be forced to switch conferences. CK, JP, & QS