THE NEWS February 16, 2017 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CXVI No. 4

Teddy Ndje Potentially Going Pro In Argentina Inside This Issue Soccer team and started every game by Varun Maheshwari Pay for his first season would be around except for Senior Night. He scored 14 ten thousand dollars, with the possibility The time is neither productive nor Teddy Ndje, the Freshman goals in the 23-game season. He’s been of a raise based on his performance. The helpful towards my education. star of the Varsity Soccer at Gilman since 6th grade and has loved earliest he can be moved up to the profes- team, is currently weighing his experience here. sional squad would be at age 17 in 2 years. “ Tyler Witherspoon, Page 2 a career in soccer for Club Club Atletico Banfield is a well-known The team would pay for all expenses, 4th Period Study Hall ” Banfield, a professional domestic club in Argentina over 120 including housing, food, medical needs, soccer club in Buenos Aires, years-old. They play in the “Primera etc. Teddy would participate in a few Argentina. Teddy was recruited to play for Division” and are managed by Julio César international tournaments while on the Coolest NFL experience would their under-17 team for the season, which team in which he would travel to many have to be just becoming friends runs from March to mid-October. Their countries to play other under-17 teams and teammates with guys that we interest in Gilman’s star was sparked around the world. “ all used to watch on TV. after Teddy played against Banfield in a Teddy says that his biggest challenge tournament in which they admired his would be living by himself for the first Darius Jennings, Page 4 performance and invited him back. The time ever and more predominantly the ” Darius Jennings Q and A current invitation from Banfield would language barrier. While in Buenos Aires, have Teddy departing for Argentina in he would take online classes to earn his July to train and get accommodated for Falcioni. Some notable players on their high school degree. His mother would the season start in March. Teddy said, “I professional team include Mauro Camo- want him to stay connected to Gilman via The Gilman News is a student run will have to learn to live by myself. It’ll be ranesi, who later played for the renowned the online classes, so that when he comes newspaper. All opinions herein interesting. I’ll definitely bring my Xbox Italian soccer club Juventus, and Colom- back in the winter, he would most likely contained are not necessarily those of though!” bian soccer star James Rodriguez, who reconnect with Gilman in some fashion. the Gilman Administration Teddy played on Gilman’s Varsity currently plays for Real Madrid. All in all, we wish Teddy good luck! Artifact Paper 2.0 Roomless Seniors by Alex Duh The English and History departments by Greg Diette This year saw a major decided to shorten the assignment this A new epidemic has taken the brighter side of the senior room: “It change to Gilman’s year. For the assignment, the teachers hold of Gilman: homeless was a great central space for all of us approach to the Artifact took advantage of changes in the midterm seniors. The Senior Room to meet and hang out. Especially after Paper. The Artifact Paper, schedule and placed the assignment in has been locked for weeks senior retreat, we really just want to all a signature assignment the three-week period between winter now, leaving the senior class be together.” Mr. Smith even recalled his for the tenth grade since break and second semester. Mr. Hastings desperately searching for a days of having a senior room, reminisc- the early 2000’s, has been elaborated, “We said, as a department, new area on campus to call home. Since ing, “Our senior class was slightly bigger, famous for being both long and challeng- ‘That seems like a perfect opportunity the day before break, spaces such as the but generally pretty similar. It was a ing. To write the paper, students would for us to move this thing that had gotten Annex, the common room of Carey Hall, perfect spot for us to bond, do homework, pick three artifacts - one each of a literary, too big and we wanted to make a more and other public areas have been crowded hangout, or even nap with our free time.” historical and artistic document- to write constrained time period – move [the with members of the Class of 2017. History teacher Dr. Mike Kelly offered about the zeitgeist (spirit of the time) of a assignment] into that window, and then it A closed Senior Room is not an uncom- a different opinion: “I have absolutely chosen era in history. opens up the entire fourth quarter for our mon occurrence. For Gilman seniors, no problem with the senior room being In previous years, the assignment was curriculum.” Mr. Hudson summarized historically, the room is often closed. taken away...The Senior Room brings no a 2500-3500 word paper that spanned the more circumscribed expectations of Dean Boo Smith explained, “Once or benefits whatsoever.” Former student Mr. much of the fourth quarter. This would the new assignment stating, “we decided twice a year the room gets closed and for Alex DeWeese explained, “I think a senior usually result in a paper 10-15 pages in to restructure the assignments and do all different reasons. Common examples room with no teacher supervision is a length. Students would pick virtually much of the legwork for the students, spe- are rough housing, loud music, or foul recipe for disaster.” He went on to sug- any topic spanning from Ancient Greece cifically give them a group of topics they language from their mouths or their gest, “I think in the future there should to modern times and were responsible for had to work with, which eliminated a lot speakers.” still be some sort of communal space for finding their own artifacts. of time that had previously been wasted This closure, however, appears to be the seniors, but the Senior Room should However, this January, the assignment as students grappled with an appropriate much more serious as the future of the definitely have windows or be in some was modified. The Class of 2019 was given topic as well as finding suitable primary Senior Room is in jeopardy. Rumors, sort of annex so teachers walking by can just over two weeks to write a paper 5-7 sources for the students.” namely, adding windows to the senior see what is going on.” pages in length. They picked from five With the long tradition of the Artifact room, turning the space into a classroom Now the predominant issue facing the possible topics: Byzantium, German Paper, making these changes was not an or office, or even filling the room in with senior class is finding a place where they Romanticism, Rome, the Enlightenment, easy decision. One concern was that the cement have flooded the halls. Mr. Smith can congregate. Menefee remarked, “I and the Protestant Reformation/North- students would lose the full experience made it clear that the state of the Senior spent every second I could in the senior ern Renaissance. From these, they chose of the previous Artifact Paper. The stu- Room is anything but certain, saying, room: free periods, after lunch, or even one literary, artistic, and historical arti- dents do miss an opportunity to write a “There is a chance that the seniors may in between classes. Without a place to fact from a list of 9-11 artifacts provided long paper on almost anything in history get the room back this year, depending hangout with my grade, I now often just by their teachers. that they want, something that they may on how they react to their punishment. go home during my frees.” Mr. Patrick Hastings, English Depart- never have done before. “It’s a shame that But at the same time, it is important to The question of the senior room’s ment Chair, discussed the length of this change takes away from the freedom understand that space at Gilman is des- state will continue to be an issue of focus time consumed by this project in years and openness of the previous artifact perately needed, so we may do something for Gilman students in the upcoming past: “the Artifact Paper had become paper model,” Mr. Hastings remarked. different with the room.” months. While some debate where to take this sprawling, two-month long process Mr. Hastings also commented, “The old The criticisms of the senior room have naps, others are focused on whether they that would span pretty much all of April Artifact Paper was really cool in that it received attention recently, while the or future generations of Gilman students and all of May in the tenth grade Eng- allowed students to develop a unique and benefits are often forgotten. Senior Class will ever step foot in the senior room lish and Euro Civ courses.” This made original interest into a formal, argumen- President Lawson Menefee (’17) described again. it difficult for the teachers to plan their tative essay…Sustaining an argument ability to practice their analytical skills in tunity to grade this year’s artifact papers curriculum to fit in time periods beyond for ten to twenty pages, that’s an experi- support of a thesis that is proven across with my English colleagues, I believe World War I. In addition to the massive ence that I would like for every student discipline,” Mr. Hastings explained. most if not all of the faculty would agree amount of time dedicated to the paper, to have at some point. Whether or not Some students support this sentiment. this iteration, although reduced in scope, teachers also noted the sheer difficulty the sophomore year is developmentally Alex Soong (’17) said, “I did not like that is more developmentally appropriate for of the task. Mr. Kevin Hudson, History the appropriate age for that to occur is a we spent a whole quarter working on a our sophomores. A higher course average Teacher, explained, “Some of our stu- question that we aren’t quite sure about.” research paper. I felt that this time could and few Cs or below would support this dents at Gilman were capable of writing Ultimately, the teachers chose to save be better spent.” conclusion. Finally, our students have college-level papers, and other students at time for teaching material in the fourth Mr. Hudson believes that the change really refined their primary source analy- Gilman struggled to even meet the mini- quarter while still preserving its essence. has had mostly positive effects on the sis without the distraction of extensive mum requirements of the assignment.” “Its primary focus is judging students’ students, saying, “Having had the oppor- secondary source research.” page 2 February 8, 2016 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CXVI No. 4 Letter To The Editor: Shapiro Emails: For Your (In)Convenience by Jackson Tacka Let’s reclaim recruiting at Gilman. I’m ishes. My closest friends have not been white Once the practice of the late email be- not talking about linebackers and receivers, and Jewish, like me. Their different points Nothing is better than get- comes almost expectable, there is an is- but about a richer range of possibilities. We of view have helped me sharpen my own ting all of your homework sue. Students like Matt Rodgville (’20) need to recruit more outstanding minor- beliefs. Regular exposure to classmates done during the school explained their frustration saying “I ity students across the board. We can’t af- of other races and socioeconomic classes day, and having a free would get emails after athletics as late ford to let one sport or the application pool reduced my subconscious judgements. night. Suddenly, a dreaded as eight to nine o’clock.” I have also had determine our population; we need to be From Pre-First, Gilman emphasized con- unread email notification this come up in a variety of classes, even more proactive and go after minority stu- nection and respect for others. As we grew appears in your inbox, and the subject of to the extent of a teacher sending out an dents of the highest caliber in every disci- up together and became more aware of the email reads “Tonight’s Homework” email the night before class regarding pline. The essence of our school depends racial and socioeconomic differences, our in bold print. Hoping for the best, you a quiz the next day. Too often this is- on the richness of our diverse community. grade never fractured. Even though stu- open the email and, to your dismay, it sue prevents students from successfully We need to attract and recruit more minor- dents from like backgrounds would cluster says, “Read pages 23 through 51, an- balancing hectic schedules that include ity students who excel in many disciplines, at lunch or outside, these groupings seemed notate, and be prepared for a quiz.” rigorous academics, time-consuming eg: math, science, saxophone, literature, to be driven more by comfort and com- This situation has become an increas- extracurriculars, and exhausting sports. computer science, and musical theater… as mon interest than by exclusion of others. ingly more prevalent issue for students, When asking Mr. Rob Heubeck about well as in football, lacrosse and basketball. While Gilman’s history had had instances sometimes with one single teacher or the idea, he explained,“ If you have an After Poggi’s departure, the high school suf- of racial exclusion and anti-semitism, I have even worse, with multiple ones. This all 8:00 a.m. class on Tuesday, you need to fered from a lack of African-American stu- found myself in a respectful brotherhood. too common predicament has forced know about [the homework assignment] dents who left for other high schools with na- My grandmother, although aware of Gil- students to make tough choices on the morning prior by 8:00 a.m..” For this tionally prominent football programs. Even man’s less than stellar history in diversity, which homework should be complet- reason, Mr. Heubeck informed teachers though we lost minority strength in football, hoped I would go to Gilman. She believed ed or whether or not to show up for an that no homework for the next class can this revealed the over-focus on one sport in the possibilities here as she witnessed Mr. out of school practice/rehearsal or not. be assigned prior to 4pm the previous at the expense of recruiting in other areas. Finney’s humane leadership transform Gil- While it is understandable for a teacher day. Hopefully, the reinforcement of Gilman needs to develop a larger African- man in the 1960s and 1970s. Now, in 2017, to do this once or twice because they this policy will alleviate some of the is- American and non-white population based I am a beneficiary of Gilman’s continued forgot or had an issue that needed to be sues that students have had in the past. on talent in many areas, not only in sports. progress in diversity. Of course, Gilman’s taken care of, there should be a limit. Naturally, diversity and excellence in work is not done. Johnnie Foreman, among many areas boost the caliber of the entire others, passionately leads Gilman’s mission institution. Varied opinions in classes en- advising minority students through their 4th Period Study Hall rich the learning experience and students Gilman years. Internal leadership must con- with study hall, stating, “As with any learn how to befriend and work with others tinue to press for greater numbers and va- by Tyler Witherspoon study hall, I have had both positive and who are different from themselves. As Gil- riety of students from diverse backgrounds. negative experiences. However, the pos- man strives to be a first-class prep-school, As I leave Gilman, I sincerely hope that Gil- When I think about fourth itive benefits of study hall far outweigh not only for college, but for life beyond, di- man commits the resources and intention to period study hall, the first the isolated negative experiences.” I versity is a keystone of preparation for life. push to be the quality powerhouse it can be. thing that comes to my have not seen much of the positivity that As a thirteen-year Gilman student, my Mr. Goldman notes. Students careless - Johnny Shapiro (‘17) mind is rest. I’m given the own experience of diversity has few blem- opportunity to sit in a room for forty attitudes and reckless actions that have minutes, doing nothing but staring at my continued over the past few months have computer screen and wandering aimless- shown me the productivity of fourth pe- ly through websites. The time is neither riod has dropped dramatically, indicat- productive nor helpful towards my edu- ing it is not a beneficial use of a student’s cation, serving only as an escape from time. When asked about this, Sopho- THE NEWS the long school day. I share these feelings more Simon Warfield said, “There have on fourth period study hall with many been multiple instances where I was in other members of the sophomore class. study hall and kids were yelling and talk- Many sophomores see fourth period ing back to Mr. Sheets. Sometimes peo- (410) 323–3800 ext. 448 study hall as a break from their prior ple even play music out loud. I haven’t www.GilmanNews.com three classes. Their minds have been been able to get work done and nei- fried from Gilman’s rigorous academic ther have many others” This highlights The News reserves the right to edit letters for length and grammar. curriculum, and the only thing on their the problems myself and many others All submissions must be signed. mind is playing games or watching Net- have seen with this study hall, and, contrary to Mr. Goldman’s thoughts, Send correspondence to [email protected], or to: flix. The majority of the class is in study hall because they are forced to be there, it is not an effective use of time. I be- not because they are prepared to work. lieve it is time to pose the question: Is Logan Paff (‘19) said, “[Fourth period] fourth period study hall really worth it? study hall can be a number of things. One possible alternative to the un- The Gilman News It’s either a time for you to hang around productive and distracting study hall Gilman School with your friends and chill, or it’s a time is providing a free fourth period for 5407 Roland Avenue to attempt to get some work done.” Paff the sophomore class. The jump from Baltimore, Maryland 21210 recognizes the unproductivity of fourth freshman to sophomore year provides period study hall experienced through- no added privileges for the one year out much of the sophomore class. While high school veterans, and a free fourth there may be a few kids in the room that period could provide a small but re- Editorial Staff: are able to get some work done during warding prize. It would allow for the Jason Moscow Editor-in-Chief the short forty minutes, that number students who want to do work to find a Dav is Booth M a naging Editor is far less than the kids who are slack- quiet and non-distracting work area, while also allowing the many others a Will R ende M a naging Editor ing off and doing nothing. Paff contin- ued to talk about the productivity of time to relax and have fun during the A a ron Slutk in M a naging Editor students in the study hall, explaining, day. This heightened privilege of a free Conr a d Clemens Editor “People tend to play more games than period would also come with a greater Mich a el Johnson Editor to do work, that being said, only a few responsibility for the sophomore class Bria n Nelson Editor do actual work.” Through my experi- to use their time wisely. Nonetheless, I Nath a n Hedgecock Layout Editor ence, the overall feeling of fourth pe- believe as sophomores, we are mature Teddy R a dle Photo Editor riod study hall is one of laughter and and sensible enough not to abuse this jokes, causing a distracted work envi- freedom. When asked if sophomores ronment for the few dedicated students. could handle a fourth period free, Paff Faculty Advisors: In line with the students’ view of stated, “I think that we could handle a Dia ne Fuller, A nna Follensbee, M att Zea la nd & Cesa re Cicca nti fourth period study hall, proctor Mr. free period. I would understand having Larry Sheets affirms these issues. When guidelines, such as staying on campus, but it would be good way to give sopho- Contributors: asked if he would be interviewed for The News about fourth period, Mr. Sheets mores some privileges.” I believe this Noa h A br a ms, I bbe A shru f, Sa m Bloomberg Gus C a iol a, Gr eg Diette, A lex declined, laughing at my initial ques- freedom will be more beneficial to the Du h, Va ru n M a hesh wa r i, Jackson Tack a, Ty ler Witherspoon tion. On the contrary, Mr. Aaron Gold- sophomore class as a whole, allowing man, Dean of Students, was quite happy for a choice on handling their free time. Indicates an Editorial or First Person Perspective Piece February 8, 2016 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CXVI No. 4 February 8, 2016 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CXVI No. 4 page 3 Midterms In Perspective In Search Of A Sophomore Hangout get very far.” First, Quinn said they had by Sam Bloomberg by Noah Abrams consulted with Dr. Mo, who agreed it This year, the tri-school I am better at projects than just taking Everyone loves that time was unfair that the sophomores do not unveiled a new format for exams.” He also commended it on doing before first period or after have a place to relax. When asked about the Upper School midterm what it was supposed to: reassuring that lunch when they can go to it, he explaine, “We do really great with exam schedule. In the past, he did not have homework to do over the spot where their grade freshman. We have freshman fifth and students took exams for all break. Additionally, Ahearn suggested, can congregate with their guidance and health class and CT-20. I five or six of their classes “If there was anything I would change it peers. Well, it is very dif- think sophomores are kind of cut loose as two weeks after Winter Break, causing would be other classes cutting down on ferent for the sophomore class. While the soon as they become sophomores.” After some students to complain that they their workload to give more time to the freshmen have CT-20, the juniors have talking with Dr. John Mojzisek, Quinn could not use their break as they wanted large projects we have. I know of some the second floor common room, and the remarked that they, the sophomore offi- because they were studying for exams. people that only started some of their seniors usually have the senior room, the cers, hit a wall and ran into some issues. This year, however, before winter break, papers the day before because they were sophomores, on the other hand, have no He said, “When it was discussed, the students took a math and science exam. so swamped with work.” This view was designated hangout spot. issue of ‘where would we go’ and ‘who After the break was over, teachers in shared by other students who felt rushed Although they tend to congregate on would proctor us’ kind of stood in our the humanities courses gave projects or by the workload coming back from break. the lawn chairs and picnic tables outside way.” other cumulative assessments with the Upper School Head Mr. Rob Heubeck the Science Building, they can only sit Additionally, this lack of a hangout expectation that the math and science commented, “I think the Administra- there when it is dry and warm enough spot poses a threat to the class unity. courses would not give additional work. tion thought it went really well, and the outside. When they cannot convene there, Earlier in the year Mr. Will Sheard, Form Simeon Parker (’19) comments, “[The teachers, one of the things that they are the sophomores are typically spread Chair of the tenth grade, took a poll and new exam schedule] allows us to use the concerned about is that the week prior to around different places within the school found around 50% of the class felt there break as it was intended to be used… exams felt pretty rushed, and that they in small social groups. Many of them, in was a lack of unity within the grade. as a break.” Noah Jun (’19) also thinks didn’t get enough material covered that fact, do not know where to go at these When asked about the idea of creating a that the new schedule went well, but he they thought they would. On the other times and end up going to their next class, spot for the sophomores, Mr. Sheard said, points out several flaws, adding, “Before hand, I think that the teachers that didn’t losing this time to relax. Logan Paff (‘19) “I certainly think that could be a good break it was hard learning new mate- give an exam, and have done projects, said, “A lot of the time I don’t know where idea, but I don’t know how that would rial and studying and after it flipped, I really liked that process of having two anyone is and just go to class instead. I work in practice… I am sure it would be feel like you still have to learn new stuff weeks after exams to have some project wish we had somewhere like CT-20 last a great place to hangout and get to know while completing projects and tests.” work done, and not rushing to get done year where our whole grade could be.” people you don’t, but I think equally it Noah puts forth a solution, explaining, “I for the exam.” He further explains what Because many of the Class of 2019 could be a place for people to slack off a would change the exam schedule back to happens from here, “We have a commit- students have been bothered by this bit.” the original one, but have it before break tee of teachers from all three school, and absence of a definitive hangout space, Beagle commented, “Hopefully the so that way you don’t have it hanging they are going to collect data and look at the sophomore class representatives work we’re doing now will result in us over your head [during break] like last some of the ways we will be able to adapt have attempted to solve this issue. Tenth having a place to hangout, but we are also year.” Mac Webster (’18) feels that there a little better.” Nevertheless, because of grade Class Treasurer Quinn Beagle said, doing this for the classes to come and in should have been more communication the strong reaction from the student body “We [class officers] have tried to talk to hopes that they will get one and be more and better planning leading up to the and teachers in favor of the new schedule, some of the faculty about this, but didn’t fortunate than us.” exams, saying, “Classes that didn’t have Mr. Heubeck said that, “[For] at least for exams have seemed to pile on work for the next two years or so we are going to the last week or even the last day which continue this model, and make some Evaluation Of World Cultures is extremely frustrating.” Mac continues, adjustments as we need to.” by Tyler Witherspoon “The week leading up to the math and sci- Clearly, this new exam system had there is more informative and important ence exams was not light by any means. some mixed reviews after this first World Cultures, the manda- history to be taught in place of the world In other classes I still had assignments to time through. While there were a lot of tory freshman history class cultures topic. Other students have sug- do leading up to that weekend.” Brandon positive things that came from the new that teaches about different gested replacing this course with Ancient Ahearn (’19) also feels that the work after schedule, it also brought some ideas to regions throughout the History or East Asian Culture. These are break was a little much, mentioning, the Administration. If the system had world, has been met with more specific history topics that allow for “[After break] felt rushed. There were more communication throughout the varying opinions from stu- an understanding of study skills and self- multiple projects going on while classes departments, such as a schedule shared dents around the school. Some freshmen discipline, while also teaching students stayed pretty much at their normal pace… with the teachers so work would be more are very supportive of the class, noting its crucial information about past events. The classes without exams made projects spaced out, the students would be able to relevance and importance. When asked When asked about his world cultures much harder to manage since there is so balance their workload easier. That being about the class, current sophomore Noah experience, Sophomore Logan Paff said, much to do in around two weeks.” While said, the new exam schedule, or at least Abrams said, “World Cultures is a great “Although I enjoyed my teacher and class, this schedule was rushed, Ahearn still parts of it, have been accepted by a large class. I learned a lot about my own learn- I do not believe the class was helpful liked it, adding, “I personally enjoy the number of students throughout Gilman. ing styles and the different opinions and to me. I was not very interested in the new exam schedule more, simply because outlooks of regions around the world.” material and I believe the topic was way Many fellow students believe this to be too broad, not allowing me to become the case as well, noting they learned much actively engaged. I definitely think there Changes For Outward Bound more than just about world history. The are better and more helpful topics of his- class teaches study skills, awareness of tory we could learn.” Students who came by Gus Caiola debrief the experience. others, and an ability to understand and through the Gilman Middle School also The annual Freshmen Out- Initially, the goal of the trip was to start comprehend critical thinking questions cite World Cultures as being very similar ward Bound trip is going off the freshmen’s high school experience and essays. Mr. Matthew Baum, chair of to the geography class taught in sixth through some extreme on a high note and make new students the Gilman History Department, believes grade. changes over the next year. feel more comfortable. Over the trip’s World Cultures “is a good fit for our cur- Both of these views of World Cultures The expedition started in first two years, it became apparent that riculum. It exposes students to different are known by the teachers of the History fall 2015 as an attempt for the time of the trip was a high stress time cultures from Africa to Asia to Europe to Department; however, there is no active the whole freshmen class to bond before for many students. There were also family the Americas. It exposes us to different pursuit in changing the curriculum. Mr. beginning high school. The rising fresh- conflicts that interfered with the trip, types of text.” World Cultures also allows Baum stated, “…we are always evaluat- men departed from Gilman about a week making it hard to get all the incoming teachers to shape the learning experience ing our curriculum and keeping an open before the school year started and spent freshmen to Outward Bound for five days. to fit both current and deep-seated issues, mind, but I am very positive about World five days on the Appalachian Trail. Next Furthermore, students who attended the and many believe that it provides a posi- Cultures as a class overall.” The history year, however, they will not be going at trip missed part of summer vacation. This tive experience for the students involved. department is in agreement with the the end of summer. Instead, they will was a downside to the trip and acted as an However, this positive view of World students who believe World Cultures is embark on the adventure at the end incentive for kids to find an excuse not to Cultures is not shared throughout the a positive experience for the Freshman of the year when final exams are over. attend. When asked about his experience whole student body. Many students also class, but have heard and understood Freshmen will take exams early, and the on the trip, freshman Michael Mallas believe World Cultures is providing a neg- the concerns and issues that multiple trip will happen while sophomores and remarked, “I thought it was an okay time, ative influence on the history department students throughout Gilman have had juniors take their exams. Accompanying but it could’ve been better.” Moving it to as a whole. These students believe that about the course. them will no longer be seniors, but rather the end of the school year makes it so that juniors (rising seniors) who will also be there will be no conflicts, and students taking their exams early. The trip’s length will not miss any summer vacation. and physical activities will be very simi- Mr. John Schmick, Gilman liaison that they meet the challenges through bring freshmen teachers on the trip and lar, but contents discussed will be very to Outward Bound, hopes this trip will perseverance, determination and the bring them and students closer together different. There will also be a sophomore be an experience where boys are chal- support of their peers in their crew. He to strengthen bonds created during the year follow up regarding the trip because lenged and pushed beyond what they believes that moving the trip to the end of school year. students will not have freshman fifth to think they are capable of. His hope is the year will both give an opportunity to page 4 February 8, 2016 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CXVI No. 4 Gilman vs. RPCS: Take On AP Humanities Courses

by Ibbe Ashruf happens to some girls at RPCS that cre- Humanities courses have the same strug- From the student perspective, Marsie About thirteen years ago, ates a divide in the students of each class. gles as those Mr. Heubeck lays out, but Salvatori, a senior, who currently takes Gilman decided not to By measuring a student’s aptitude for an teachers and students are making efforts AP European Civilization at RPCS and offer Advanced Placement AP course through grades and teacher to change the scene of such courses. has taken AP English Literature, AP US courses in the Humani- recommendations, some students who When asked about the status of the AP History, and AP World History, says that ties, such as AP U.S. His- might find success in an AP course are environment at RPCS, Ms. Ereni Malfa, there is not a divide between the class and tory, AP World History, left out. Furthermore, Gilman creates an Upper School Head of Roland Park Coun- that there is not any competition between and AP European History. Today, many environment where students of different try School, says, “I think that the struc- girls but verifies that it is necessary to Gilman boys still question why they abilities and strengths can be in the same ture of APs is a struggle that students and stick to the curriculum. However, Marsie are not allowed to take such courses. class which eliminates a “superclass” teachers both deal with at every school also said, “Although the “teaching to the Upper School Head Mr. Robert Heubeck of individuals. Gilman student, Bryan because a teacher cannot spend time on test” definitely can limit flexibility within explains a couple of reasons why Gilman Huang (‘18), said, “Initially, I would say things that they favor due to the obliga- the material being taught, bump classes chooses not to offer these courses: “The yes to AP offerings for the humanities, tion of teaching all relevant material often provide extra time for the teachers AP program, run by the College Board, but on second thought, I really think before the AP exam. I think that the value to implement activities or lesson plans mandates that the teacher creates an that when you take an AP, it is really of AP is being talked about today whether that are not in the AP curriculum.” ‘audit’ for which all the exercises, assign- just preparation for a test and that would the AP curriculum is too restrictive, and In the tri-school environment and at ments, materials, are to be sent to them. be really restrictive for a teacher. I do I know the College Board is planning on schools across the nation, students are You pretty much have to follow their cur- not think that is the best situation for making the changes to their courses. I pressured, to take the offered AP courses riculum, and each teacher has the liberty the Humanities like AP English and AP think our teachers still work really hard at their school. In the end, AP courses are for time devoted to each topic, but you US History.” The AP program allows for to incorporate other options like debates regarded and highly sought after for their are restricted by teaching all of the mate- students to experience a college level and projects aside from the test material.” shine on college resumes, but students rial by the time of the AP exam, (usually class, build college skills, and stand out Contrarily, Ms. Malfa believes that the and educators around the country should in early May) which did not allow the from other college applicants, but it also biggest problem with the AP system in challenge themselves to be careful when instructor autonomy to teach the course limits a student’s perspective to the topics the tri-school is not the structure of the taking AP courses due to their confined that they wanted to teach.” Additionally, covered in a three-hour long test. course, but rather that it pulls students and abridged nature, which makes for an Mr. Heubeck recognizes a situation that On the other side of the bridge, the AP out of coordination within the tri-school. lesser understanding of the topic. Darius Jennings Q&A Darius Jennings was one of the best Football players to ever grace Gilman’s Brown Field. Darius rushed for 4,338 yards and scored 53 touchdowns during his career at Gilman. Darius also won three out of his four Gilman vs. McDonogh games and led Gilman to victory as quarterback during his Junior and Senior years. After four stellar years at Gil- man, Darius decided to attend The University of Virginia to play . After graduating from Virginia in 2015, Darius tried out for and made the Browns practice squad, later activated for the last few weeks of the season. He started the year on the Browns practice squad, Darius was released and had a stint with the until he signed where he is today, with the . Darius finished this past season with the Jets and has signed with the Jets for the 2017-2018 season. Darius looks forward to the rest of his hopefully successful NFL career. Below is a question and answer with Darius Jennings:

interview by Tyler Witherspoon and intensity of the game rises. It pays well, football wave for as long as I can. Gilman that have helped you in your Question: What was the hardest part though. career? about transitioning from quarterback Q: Can you give me a brief synopsis of to wide receiver at Virginia? Q: Why did you choose to go to Virginia your time in the NFL and the different DJ: One thing that I have learned while at instead of Ohio State? teams you have played for? Gilman was to always take advantage of Darius Jennings: I think being a quar- your opportunities, but make sure that you terback in high school definitely helped my DJ: When it came down to it, I felt like Vir- DJ: I signed with the in leave your mark. I was fortunate enough transition to receiver. It allowed me to see the ginia was an overall better fit. Family is big 2015 as an undrafted free agent. Was actually to be accepted to Gilman in the 2nd grade big picture of the play. But the hardest part to me, and I knew that it would be harder for a tryout player. There were 50 of us compet- through the B.E.S.T. program, which helped was just learning the small nuances of being my parents to come see me play if I had gone ing for 8 contracts and they signed me. I inner city kids to get into private schools a receiver, like running routes, keeping my to OSU (with the distance and the expenses initially made their practice squad and stayed across Baltimore. That might have been the body lean the same to make all of my routes to travel). Virginia is three hours away, close there for the first 12 weeks of the season and best opportunity that I have had to date. look the same, being deceptive with my eyes enough where my parents never missed a then I was activated for the remainder of Gilman has laid the foundation for me and and hands to fool the DB, small things like home game, but far enough away where they the season. Started the 2016 season on their opened doors that might not have been pos- that. And as you experience more and play weren’t popping up on a random Tuesday. practice squad as well. After I was released, sible otherwise. Who knows where I would more, you learn different techniques and you Just getting a degree from there alone holds I spent time on the Chicago Bears practice be? I am definitely a better man because of learn what works and what doesn’t. I also had weight and I knew that would serve me well squad before I signed on to become a New Gilman. But at the same time, my mother to learn how to play without the ball in my in the long run. They didn’t promise me any- York Jet. Finished the last month on their told me the first day that I stepped on campus hands every play. thing, but they told me I could come in as a practice squad and I signed back with them that, “Gilman will be a better place because freshman and compete for playing time right for next season. you are here as well.” And I still carry that Q: What was the biggest difference away and that was music to my ears. There mindset with me wherever I go. I’m grateful between high school football and col- aren’t too many head black football coaches Q: What’s the coolest experience that that confidence was instilled with me at lege football? in college, so it was refreshing having coach you’ve had as an NFL player? an early age, and it has helped me excel as I London there as well. And my grandmother continue with my journey. Take every oppor- DJ: The biggest difference between high loved that fact and that he was a spiritual DJ: Coolest NFL experience would have tunity as a blessing, know what you bring to school ball and college ball is that you can’t man. It also made my decision a little easier to be just becoming friends and teammates the table and spread it with others. rely on pure talent anymore. Everybody because at the time Ohio State was going with guys that we all used to watch on TV. was a superstar at their high schools, so you through a few recruiting violations and I was There are definitely perks that come with it. Q: What’s your favorite NFL experi- have to elevate your play and really put the uncertain of the changes that could possibly lol I can’t tell you what my coolest experience ence? What’s your favorite Gilman time and dedication in. The stage is bigger be made within the program. is on the field because I do not believe that football experience? Which one did you as well. Instead of playing in front of 5,000 it has happened yet. There’s still a lot more enjoy more? people at the Gilman McDonogh game, it’s Q: What was your major at UVA and do in store for me. (Fun fact: I caught Johnny 50,000-100,000 any given week (depending you have any plans for after your NFL Manziel’s last pass). DJ: I didn’t answer the “enjoy” part in ques- on where you play). career is over? tion five so I’ll do it now lol. I would have Q: What’s your favorite Gilman foot- to say I definitely enjoyed my high school Q: What was the biggest difference DJ: I majored in Sociology while I was at ball experience? experiences more. Just because you get to go between and the NFL? UVA. I’ve always felt that I’m supposed to out there and enjoy the moments with your The biggest difference from college to the be giving back somehow, helping others and DJ: Coolest Gilman football experiences friends. People who you’ve grown up with league is the speed and the complexity of those around me. I think that’s kind of what would have to be scoring a touchdown and and see and hang out with every day. The the game. Playbooks are bigger, schemes are drew me into Sociology. It allowed me to having the game winning interception in NFL is more of a business. It’s definitely a harder and teams disguise their coverages study different causes and effects on what the Gilman-McDonogh game my freshman dream come true, but guys have families to a lot more. And you have to diagnose it all makes a society successful or not. year. Winning that same game my senior attend to after practice, so it’s not quite the within a matter of seconds (sometimes on the But to answer your question, I really have year on Senior Day and Coach Poggi calling same. And the league is such a revolving door. fly). It also becomes people’s livelihood - how no idea what I want to do to after football. I timeout so I could come off the field. And it People come and go throughout the course of we feed and provide for our families. So the feel like I might be working with kids in some was always cool when the crowd would rap the season. The continuity and security that margin for error is slim to none. A costly capacity, I just don’t know what that is yet. It’s Lil Wayne’s “Go DJ.” is there in high school and even in college is mistake can cost you your job or that of a a scary thought. I’m 24 and am still trying to lost in the NFL teammate or coach. So with that the stress sort out my life. That is why I am riding this Q: What lessons have you learned at