Personal Athletes Projects The adapt to deemed op- altered rou- tional during tines during current fall sports school year season Page 2 QuillMon., Nov. 2, 2020 Vol. 57, No. 1 Page 7 Robbinsdale Cooper High School www.rdale.org/chs/students/the_quill 8230 47th Ave. N., New Hope, MN 55428

ALSO INSIDE Officials will assess a News DISTANCE LEARNING WILL possible model shift for the start of second LAST THROUGH SEMESTER semester in January Whether Cooper continues in distance learning after first se- mester will be determined in De- cember or January. The decision Principals shift will be dependent on the data in support methods our area that the state provides. “If we can maintain the School administra- COVID protocols for safety, tors have been get- overall, I do think it would be bet- ting creative in the ter for students to be in the class- ways they deliver room,” he said. services to Cooper's Should the school move to student population a hybrid model in second semes- ter, Herman said there are a few Page 2 options that are being considered. “There are a few scenari- os that we would look at if we News went hybrid,” he said. “One plan would be if we could only have 25 percent of the students in the building during a school day. This would mean that each student would come to the building two times per week every other week. The schedule would remain as it is now.” Students finding If the school does adjust part-time work models during second semes- Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA ter, Herman said families will Although they face still have a choice about wheth- The building will remain mostly empty through the end of the first half of the school year due to the pandemic. scheduling challeng- er or not their own students will es and health con- By LUKE REKELA-JASPER students, including fifth grade the other learning models. shifts, it would not be ideal.” return to school. cerns, students try to Quill staff writer at FAIR School Crystal, will ““While it would have According to Herman, the “As far as if it would earn money during remain in Distance Learning been great to have students and continuation of distance learning be optional, according to the their time offline The Robbinsdale School PLUS through the first semes- staff back in the building for face- has its benefits and detriments to governor’s executive order, District has decided to con- ter,” Robbinsdale Area Schools to-face learning, keeping some students when compared to be- students have the option to stay Page 3 tinue distance learning for the Interim Superintendent Dr. consistency through the semes- ing in the classroom. in [distance learning] if their duration of semester one be- Stephanie Burrage told families ter was important,” Herman “Some students like the dis- school goes to a hybrid or face- cause of COVID-19. With the and staff on October 2. “This will said. “Given that the decision tance learning model, however to-face model,” he said. Opinion pandemic still being a looming allow students to continue classes to start out the year in [distance most students, according to sur- While the middle and high threat over schools across the with their current teachers and re- learning] and then move to a hy- veys and conversations, would schools are sticking with distance world, Cooper will remain in duce the disruption to learning.” brid model mid-semester would rather be back in the classroom,” learning, changes are on the hori- distance learning until further Cooper Head Principal Mr. have created the need to revise he said. “This first semester, since zon for the elementary schools. notice from the district. Herman said the decision to stay the schedule, shift students to we started out in [distance learn- “During the past few “After receiving recom- with distance learning was diffi- different classes and make some ing], I do believe it will be better mendations from staff and fam- cult, but it was the best decision major adjustments while in the that we stayed with [distance learn- DISTANCE ilies, middle and high school available given the challenges of building as the COVID data ing] to the end of the semester.” continues on page 2 New schedule benefits Hawks Students revamp work habits for virtual classes The alternating-day block schedule and The new ways of conducting school during distance learning have required Hawks to operate differently to ensure academic success Wednesday support ses- her last year of high school would be spent at home. sions have improved the “I really want to be in class with my teachers and friends,” she said. distance learning experi- Students prepared for school in various different ways. Meron Kassa (10) ence this school year said that she did research to know more about the course and asked advice from people she knew. Furthermore, David organized her house differently Page 4 “in a way that would make virtual high school easier.” In addition, Hambike said she did some work in advance of the beginning of the school year. “I started going over some of my notes and watching some videos to Variety prepare for my classes,” Hambike said. Other student preparations for the virtual school year that differed from previous years included school supplies. “I don’t need to worry about buying a new backpack, at least until we are back in person,” Andrew Tran (11) said. “New additions to my list this year were a comfy chair, printer paper and a webcam.” Also adjusting her supply purchases was Kassa, who bought notebooks with folders inside of them. “Then, I can have all my resources in one place which helps me stay Spider-Man still organized,” she said. spins its web Her peer David said virtual learning allowed her to cut back on her Photo by LOU VANG purchase of school supplies. Director Sam Raimi's Having a set space to study at home is one way students can stay focused. “When I went to go buy my school supplies, I was mainly looking for classic take on the By YORDANOSE MULAT stuff that would help me to be organized and stuff that I actually need. In the Marvel character Quill staff writer past, I bought a lot of unnecessary stuff,” David said. holds up nearly two Mental preparation was also different for students this year. decades, and two sol- Students in every grade at Cooper faced the first-ever virtual start to a “I was mentally prepared for this new school year,” Hambike said. “I id reboots, later school year in 2020-2021. This caused students to do various things differ- prepared as much as I could.” ently than they have in past years. In contrast to Hambike, Kassa said she was not mentally prepared be- Page 6 “When I found out that my first year of high school was going to be cause she was busy all summer and was not ready to begin school. virtual, I was actually happy because I had felt that I wasn’t prepared to go “I didn’t have as much time for myself as I wanted to,” she said. to school physically and that I needed more time,” Marwen David (9) said. Sports However, Grace Hambike (12) expressed her feeling of sadness that STUDENTS REVAMP HABITS continues on page 6 Teachers learn new ways to deliver curriculum online A primary aim of Cooper's staff is to improve the learning experience of students when compared to distance learning last spring

By JACK ATKINSON as anti-racist as possible and to make sure I run my classroom to get done with classes as quickly as possibly to prevent kids Quill staff writer with equity in the forefront of my practices,” Kope said. “A lot from unnecessary fatigue staring at their screens.” Coaches curb about distance learning is not fair for those who are typically left One challenge of distance learning is that it is easy for COVID risks The Robbinsdale School District’s decision to have out, and we as teachers have to address that and try to change students to not really pay attention since they are home and distance learning for high school students during first things for the students who don’t have white privilege. Students they can get distracted by a lot more stuff at their houses. The unpredictable na- semester in 2020-2021 caused teachers to alter their usual are hurting from the months of civil unrest and need to find a “It’s hard to get students to speak up, or even message ture of the pandem- plans for the classroom. Unlike the sudden shift to asyn- human in their teacher who wants to get to know them and up in the comments boxes, and so I have lost half of my ic means that Hawks chronous distance learning last spring when Minnesota who they know loves and cares about them.” ability to teach [and give] the feedback that I so crucially rely coaches are doing instituted a stay-at-home order to combat the spread of Another element that teachers prepared for this fall was on during the regular school day,” Kope said. “I’m trying to more than usual to COVID-19, teachers were given more advanced notice to moving to a more synchronous teaching model through which figure out ways of getting more student feedback, but haven’t ensure athlete safety get ready for virtual instruction this fall. For English teacher students have to attend live, online classes using Google Meets. found anything nearly as effective as being able to see and hear Ms. Kope, the extra time gave her a chance to think about “I have been careful to make sure I provide more in-class Page 8 the role equity could play in her online teaching. work time because I don’t want kids to take any work home,” TEACHERS LEARN NEW WAYS “I think the number one thing right now is to try to be social studies teacher Mr. DiSalvi said. “In general, I want to try continues on page 3 Page 2, The Quill News November 2, 2020 Teen vaping Administrators strive to support students causes concern Hawks principals have been getting creative in the ways they deliver services to Cooper's student population during COVID we are trying to establish more nor- malcy into the students’ school days,” Use of vaping products Nelson said. can complicate the dan- According to Nelson, one as- pect of distance learning that has been gers of the coronavirus “more difficult on the students and staff” is the lack of social interaction. By MAKAYLA HOTT “I think distance learning is great Quill staff writer for our physical health. It greatly re- duces the risk of transmitting COVID. Vaping rates among teens have However, some students may struggle been on the rise. This has been a academically and socially,” he said. growing concern during the pandem- Nelson added that the adminis- ic because people who vape have had tration has put resources in place to increased complications if they con- help students who are facing difficul- tract the coronavirus. ties during distance learning. Vaping devices are battery-operat- “There are places for students ed mechanisms that people use to inhale to meet with therapists, social work- an aerosol containing nicotine, flavor- ers, case managers, counselors and ings and other chemicals. According to teachers. Students just need to fill out drugabuse.gov, there are more than 400 a Google form and they will be able different e-cigarette brands currently on to get the support they need,” he said. the market. At first, these products were While distance learning has seen as a less dangerous alternative to brought new challenges, Nelson cigarettes, but that view has changed. pointed out that it has had some posi- “When vaping was first intro- tive aspects as well. duced, it was considered a safer choice, “I think the best part of distance but we have since found out it is not,” Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA learning is watching how excited Cooper health teacher Mr. Rooney said. students are to learn again,” Nelson Head Principal Mr. Herman comes to the building on most days to conduct the main aspects of his job. “That’s the real danger in itself, as it is so said. “The school year ended oddly new, the experts are not exactly sure. But By LUKE REKELA-JASPER Mr. Herman, there have been a num- changes like the move to a block last year, like a firework that fizzled some of the research has shown vaping Quill staff writer ber of challenges to making these schedule have been a help this year. out instead of exploding. Not having can do more damage and at a lot quicker changes during distance learning. “I believe the block schedule a true climax at the end of the year pace than smoking cigarettes.” Cooper administrators have “Aside from not being able to has alleviated some of the stress and has given students a new hunger for Vaping devices are now the most varying thoughts on the structure see people in person, I think ensur- anxiety that students felt from last knowledge and learning. That is pret- commonly used form of nicotine of school during distance learn- ing that students and staff have the spring. Having only three or four ty awesome.” among teens in America. According ing this year. With COVID-19 resources they need to be successful classes a day instead of seven while With distance learning happen- to drugabuse.gov, two reasons for continuing to cause Robbinsdale in regards to technology, printed ma- in distance learning seems to have ing through at least first semester, their popularity are that they are easy schools to remain closed, admin- terials and online tools [has been a been a positive change,” he said. students and staff are wondering what to hide from parents and teachers be- istrators had to make changes to challenge]. I believe it has also been While there have been changes second semester and the 2021-2022 cause “they do not leave behind the improve on the more unexpected more difficult to build a community this year, Administrative Intern Mr. school year might look like. Herman stench of tobacco cigarettes” and they distance learning experience last like we had in the past, so we have to Nelson said the administrators have said the school would address those can be “disguised as flash drives.” spring, including moving to syn- work on how to do this differently to worked hard to make things feel nor- questions when the time is right. Another reason for the increase in chronous classes on Google Meet ensure all feel welcome in being part mal for students. “We are not going to look that vaping is that some teens view it as cool. calls, the installation of an alter- of the great Cooper community and “The biggest challenge for dis- far ahead as we would love to see our “I don’t think vaping is cool,” nating-day block schedule and the stay involved in all that is going on,” tance learning is trying to keep ev- students and staff back in the building Rooney said, “but I think many teenag- creating of a new grading scale. Herman said. erything as normal as possible. Last when it is safe to be here together,” ers do it because it’s cool.” According to Head Principal At the same time, Herman said spring, we were in crisis mode; now, Herman said. Of course, not all teens agree with their peers who make the choice to vape. “I don’t think vaping is cool,” Heaven Shaw (12) said. “It can affect Personal Project deemed optional for '20-'21 your breathing.” In addition to the health effects, While students are encouraged to complete a project, requiring everyone to do so during distance learning presented multiple challenges growing evidence suggests that vap- “During their project, there ing can lead teens to use other nicotine credit for doing so. is a wide variety of support avail- products, including cigarettes. It is for “Completion of the project is able to the student, including this reason that the U.S. Food and Drug an expectation we have for all in- Cooper staff, IB staff and their Administration (FDA) designed regula- coming tenth grade students,” IB- supervisor,” Meyer said. tions to stop minors from buying e-cig- MYP Office Assistant Ms. Meyer At the end of the process, arettes in stores or online. Additionally, said. “However, due to distance students turn in the journal, a according to drugabuse.gov, the FDA learning, it was decided that this reflection essay and the project now regulates “the manufacture, im- year, the project would be an op- itself to their mentor for scoring. port, packaging, labeling, advertising, tional project.” Finally, in May, there is an exhi- promotion, sale and distribution of While students do not have to bition during which the projects e-cigarettes,” much like they do for complete a project in 2020-2021, their creators are celebrated. traditional cigarettes. Meyer said there are many bene- In addition to the in-school For teens who vape but want to stop, fits for the students who decide to benefits of working on a Personal the process is similar to quitting smoking. pursue the Personal Project. Project, Meyer noted that there are “Trying to quit vaping isn’t too “Completing the project outside-of-school benefits as well. different from cigarettes, as nicotine will earn the student an elective “Completing the project is a is the drug that the person is addicted credit,” she said. “Students need great resume addition,” she said. to,” Rooney said. “Nicotine causes a to amass 13 elective credits at “As students begin looking for physical and psychological addiction, Cooper in order to graduate, and employment, they can use the which makes it hard to quit.” this is a way to earn one of those process of the Personal Project as Although Cooper does not spe- credits. Also, another benefit is a selling point for why employers cifically help addicted teens stop va- that you get to create your own should select them. Students have ping, they can help provide resources independent study project. In selected their own topic, defined a for interested students. regular courses, students are of- research area, conducted that re- “Cooper doesn’t have any di- ten assigned a particular area to search [and] created an end prod- rect resources to help with tobacco research; however, the Personal uct, all while utilizing their own addiction, but [the school] does have Project is an opportunity to select an area that really interests you.” time-management and self-start- resources to start the process, pointing Photo by MS. MEYER In recent years, Cooper stu- ing skills. Relaying your ability someone in the right direction and, at Graduate Godwill Afolabi presents a display of his Personal Project dents have completed a wide and to follow a project through from the district level, there is a chemical during an annual, end-of-year exhibition of student work in IB and MYP. start to finish, independently, can specialist,” Rooney said. diverse assortment of projects, Middle Years Program (MYP), be a huge selling point to a poten- Ultimately, it us up to the teens By MAJAY MURPHY ranging from writing a cookbook will not be mandatory for ninth tial employer.” who vape to decide if they want to Quill staff writer to creating original works of art. and tenth graders this school year Students who are interested break their addiction. In order to complete a project, The Personal Project, which due to distance learning. However, in learning more about the Per- “Why are you doing this to your- students develop a project pro- is the capstone project of the In- students who choose to complete sonal Project can contact Meyer self?” Aryah Adams (12) said. “Stop posal, pick a mentor, conduct re- ternational Baccalaureate (IB) a project will receive an elective at [email protected]. it and get some help.” search and maintain a journal. DISTANCE Activities Office emphasizes flexibility during COVID outbreak continued from page 1 Assisting students involved in Cooper clubs, groups and sports requires daily oversight and adjustments weeks, we have been working to finalize procedures in preparation to bring our By MAX REKELA-JASPER copier, counters, and door handles online and sent in for fall athletes.” Additionally, athletes need to learners back to school,” Burrage said in Quill staff writer every day,” Thurston said. Also, a number of the fall sports bring their own water bottle this her October 2 statement. “At this time, Also, the Cooper Activities Of- forms were picked up during ma- year, as the water fountains are pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade The Cooper Activities Office fice is limiting one masked student ternal pick-up days, which Thurston closed, and sharing water bottles students, and secondary special educa- workers are facing new challenges or family in the office at a time. said was beneficial. with one another is prohibited. tion center-based students, will return [to and taking new safety precautions The biggest change in the The biggest change for ath- Due to COVID and distance school] on Monday, November 16.” due to COVID and distance learn- Activities Office from previous letes this year is having to do learning, Thurston said there was Whether the plan to bring elemen- ing this school year. years is the scheduling changes for the daily self-screening form a slight decline in the number of tary students back this month continues Cooper Activities Office As- all fall sports. Cooper Activities before attending a practice or a students participating in sports for forward is dependent on the changes in sistant Ms. Thurston said that Office Director Mr. Oelfke had to competition. Thurston said that the fall. She said it is difficult when COVID date. That same thing applies to the Activities Office has made a redo all fall sports game schedules doing this is for everyone’s safety, practices are held after school, as decisions about second semester for the variety of changes to reduce the due to the new Minnesota State as coaches don’t want athletes students are not in the school and middle and high school levels. spread of COVID. High School League (MSHSL) attending an event if they aren’t aren’t able to go straight to practices. “We will continue to monitor “In the office itself, we have COVID guidelines. feeling well. Athletes also need to Cooper has added activity our county COVID-19 data twice per added a plexiglass barrier on the At the same time, the sports be masked when coming inside buses that pick students up and bring month and consult with our local health counter for when we are talking registration process itself wasn’t a the building and are required to them to practice in the afternoon and experts,” Burrage said. “The safety of to students or parents. We use a lot whole lot different for fall sports practice social distancing, which take them home afterward. Thurston our students, staff and families remains more hand sanitizer and disinfectant athletes. According to Thurston, “the can be a challenge for students said this has helped a lot in getting our top priority.” wipes, wiping down keyboards, the registration form can be completed when they are with their friends. students to participate. November 2, 2020 News Page 3, The Quill History course Hawks get jobs while learning from home added during Although they face scheduling challenges and health concerns, students try to earn money during their time offline

By SANDY VUE distance learning Quill staff writer AP World History is a Many students at Cooper are new option in the Cooper balancing their time between dis- tance learning and working jobs in social studies department the community. One of the many challenges working students face By ZACARI WATSON is finding the time to complete Quill staff writer their homework assignments and turning in their work on time while A new year at Cooper brought also having a job. with it a new AP World History class. “Sometimes, I have to stay up Even with the coronavirus, the Coo- late to do my homework due to the per social studies department has still fact that we have to be online live managed to implement this new class and then work afternoons,” Emilio during distance learning. Sarabia (11) said. AP World History is being Sarabia’s peer Bailey More- taught by Ms. Kilsdonk. She said house (11) said she is experiencing there are several main types of assess- the same thing. ments that will be given in her class. “You have more on your plate “Students will take many col- so it’s easier to get behind on work laborative assessments in the be- and be stressed,” Morehouse said. ginning that consist of comparing According to Morehouse, par- areas in historical periods and then ticipating in extracurriculars like practicing components of AP exams like multiple choice, short answer, sports can interfere with school and Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA work, making it harder to stay caught documents-based questions, and The Hy-Vee in New Hope is one business at which many Cooper students find part-time work. up. Furthermore, Sarabia said “hav- long essay questions, with the aid of ing homework after class” interferes At the same time, some par- opposed to the past, when she used Sarabia said his job has helped their notes and other resources,” she with his schedule. ents think taking on a job will ben- would work “10 hours a week.” Sim- him learn how to maintain a schedule. said. “We will also do a variety of “It might be practice, but not efit their child. ilarly, Morehouse said that with dis- “It has helped me learn to assessments like scored discussions, when students are copying or not get- “My parents are happy that tance learning, working part time is manage my time appropriately and creative interpretations of historical ting it done,” he said. I’m taking on 'adulting' tasks [and] “not as hard” because she is at home wisely,” he said. concepts, and more.” Students working during skills like time management,” for a large portion of the day. Meanwhile, Morehouse said Kilsdonk said she had to go COVID-19 has raised the concern Morehouse said. Despite the challenges and risks she has learned how to deal with through a process in order to get the of their parents. Wynter Burns, a As Cooper plans for a full se- that comes with working during and talk to people better. new class approved. 2020 Cooper graduate who worked mester of distance learning, some distance learning, each student has While having a job can help get “I proposed that a middle ground her junior and senior years, said her working students like Sarabia are gained benefits and experience. The students out of the house, as well as between a regular class and an IB/AP “parents were not excited” when she finding that working during distance best thing for Burns about working gain experience in the workplace, class be offered so that students of worked last spring because she was learning is “easier to accommodate” during last spring’s quarantine was during distance learning, it is also im- varied skill levels would have access “risking getting sick,” but they still than normal because students can “getting out of [her] house.” portant for students to remember to to a challenging class and to have a allowed it. Other parents have a dif- work more or different shifts. For “It puts you in a new environ- keep their priorities straight. safe environment to take on this lev- ferent view on the issue of working. instance, due to the shift to distance ment, and just for that shift, you can do “It is not a necessity to work el of work,” she said. “I proposed the “They just didn’t want it to affect learning last spring, Burns said she anything but schoolwork, and in a way, during distance learning,” More- class to the counseling department my grades,” Sarabia said. started to “work 15 hours a week” as it’s a good way to unwind,” she said. house said. and the school principal.” According to Kilsdonk, there are many ways in which students will benefit from taking the new class. Academic success in distance learning requires innovation “Students taking this class have As Cooper students are already finding out, relying on the old methods of doing well in class will not always work this year the opportunity to work at their own level, which means that some stu- By ANDREA TRIBBLE is just as important as taking care of dents may want to challenge them- Quill staff writer your school work. It is okay to turn selves to earn college credit with the the Chromebook off and put the books modeling and skill scaffolding of Ms. Distance learning is forcing stu- away. You want to always nurture your Kilsdonk, while other students may dents to become self-motivated and mind and spirit and make sure you are just want to work toward earning high organized. Although those are good doing everything you can to ensure school credit,” she said. traits to have, this style of learning can you are in a safe and comfortable be taxing on students’ mental health and place. There are many things going on TEACHERS passion for school. in our world right now that are beyond continued from page 1 When students are doing in-person our control but cause us stress nonethe- school five days a week, it’s easy to feel less. Knowing when to shut the world students during class.” like you have no more fuel in the tank. off and create a relaxing moment for Echoing Kope about the challenges However, during distance learning, this yourself is crucial. of engaging students is DiSalvi. feeling of burnout comes more quickly “It is also really difficult for me to and aggressively. Being at home can 5. Focus on prioritizing yourself teach when I am not able to see my stu- make it difficult to focus on your assign- School is not who you are, it is dents’ reactions,” he said. “I understand ments, which can cause work to pile up, something you engage in. We’ve been in their hesitation to turn on their screen, but only adding to the stress. As difficult as school for a handful of years and it’s easy Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA it still is difficult for me to tell how well it may seem, throwing in the towel isn’t to feel like we need to prioritize it before they are understanding lessons if I can’t Staying organized can be difficult with the alternating-day schedule. the answer. Fortunately, there are some anything else. This is not necessarily true; read their facial expressions.” ways to make your distance learning ex- tool. Marking down any assignments, one feeling overwhelmed during dis- your mental and physical health come At the same time, there have been perience more manageable. due dates and class schedules can help tance learning. Taking a break to listen first. In order to succeed and give your some benefits to distance learning from you stay up to date and in control. Keep- to a song or grab a glass of water is an best effort in school, your mind and body a teacher’s perspective. Kope mentioned 1. Establish a specific work area ing track of your planner and the mate- important part of studying. It is advised have to be in a good place. that she does not miss the traditional bell One thing that can help students rials will also help you prioritize assign- to take a short 5-15-minute break every schedule of an eight-period day. succeed in distance learning is a desig- ments based on how close their due dates hour or so, and a longer 30-minute break 6. Be willing to adapt “I love not hearing bells all day. The nated work area. Working from your bed are. Planners are a great thing to incorpo- every 2-4 hours when your study ses- Distance learning can be chal- bells make me crazy. I always replay the isn’t always the most efficient thing to do, rate into your daily life and can put your sion requires that much time. Note that lenging, but this year has been full of Edgar Allen Poe poem ‘The Bells’ in no matter how comfortable your bed is. school work into perspective, which may these breaks shouldn’t include TikTok or challenges that we have all conquered my head at the beginning of the school Creating a designated work area, wheth- relieve some of the stress of trying to jug- video games, but productive things like thus far. While we are not used to this year,” she said. er that be a desk or your dining room ta- gle multiple assignments in your head. stretching or walking around your house style of learning, figuring out what Another benefit of distance learning ble, can make it easier to focus. just to get your body moving. works for you and what motivates for teachers is one that many students are 3. Schedule some down time you to get work done will help you also enjoying: the reduction of travel time 2. Maintain a planner Taking breaks in between studying 4. Pay attention to you mental health carry out the rest of the year. The will- to and from school. Utilizing a planner is also a good is another tip that can greatly benefit any- Taking care of your mental health ingness to adapt is key. “I have enjoyed being able to work at home,” DiSalvi said. “This has allowed me to eat lunch with my wife. It also means I Technology workers dedicated to helping students, staff can get up a little later since I don’t need to Meeting the hardware, software needs of the Cooper community during distance learning falls on a hard-working team get up and drive to work.” While teaching virtually has its ben- By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN iPads for elementary students and new said that she wakes up to about 50 to tive to understand what works and efits and challenges, Kope said she works Quill staff writer Chromebooks for middle school stu- 100 emails every day. what doesn’t,” she said. hard to effectively reach her students . dents. The district [also] had to work to “I also spend most of my time Despite the great efforts they “I do know that I have a lot more Preparing for distance learning get mobile hotspots for student access.” just responding to teacher and student are taking to support students and energy because I am not using the same this fall was a challenge not only After obtaining technology and needs for support. Luckily, now we staff, both Leali-Broberg and Dzi- kind of energy that face-to-face teaching for Cooper students, teachers and distributing it to the different grade seem to have figured out most of asek noted that not everyone is able entails. I’m trying to harness that energy administrators, but also the people levels, the tech team also had to the major issues so I can work more to have dependable access to Wi-Fi, into coming up with interesting lessons, responsible for the school’s hardware face some technical issues that are efficiently and spend more time on Chromebooks and iPads. Additionally, culturally-relevant curriculum and fight- and software technologies, which are beyond the control of the district, projects like helping teachers prepare they both have encountered the same ing the racism that I see around me. I hope critical to remote teaching and learn- including problems with Schoology lessons,” she said. issues with Kami submissions and all of the other teachers are doing that, ing. Together, technology integration and Google Meets. Helping students and staff make Schoology crashing. However, they too,” Kope said. specialist Ms. Leali-Broberg and “There are still technical issues use of the technology was a big part have been impressed by the growth of When it comes to the way that technology specialist Mr. Dziasek that are beyond the district’s con- of Leali-Broberg’s focus before the teachers and staff when dealing with students are receiving the online lessons have been working hard to make trol,” Dziasek said. school year even started. technology issues. that teachers are preparing, DiSalvi said sure students and staff are success- Although all students and most “We always do a ‘Summer Tech “I have been absolutely floored he hopes he helps his students to succeed fully online and making the most of staff members are working from Academy’ in August that is optional by the growth I’ve seen in teachers,” despite the lack of in-person contact. distance learning. home during distance learning, Dz- for teachers. Usually, we get about 50 Leali-Broberg said. “So many have “On the one hand, I think there is The first hurdle in getting ready iasek said he is still coming to the people that sign up. This year, we had had to learn new technology so fast, a small group of students who benefit for the fall was getting devices into the office every day to help parents and over 300. We made sure all the classes and while there have been some from distance learning because they can hands of Cooper students. students with issues on their devices we offered were tools or teaching speed bumps, a lot of teachers are focus more on their instruction and less “One of the biggest items the and answering questions. techniques for distance learning and working hard and trying new things on social pressures in the classroom,” he technology department had to deal Much like Dziasek, Lea- helping teachers feel prepared. We and it’s been really amazing to see said. “However, overall, I think it is more with was getting devices,” Dziasek li-Broberg is also helping with the also did everything online so that how much teachers are willing to difficult than in-person learning because for said. “The district ordered early so the technology needs of students and teachers could experience distance learn and do to offer the best learning students, like teachers, it is hard to develop technology department was able to get staff during distance learning. She learning from the students’ perspec- experience for students.” relationships online." Page 4, The Quill Opinion November 2, 2020 Eligible adults Distance learning schedule benefits us all must make time The alternating-day block schedule and Wednesday support sessions have improved the distance learning experience this school year to vote tomorrow catch-up time can play a factor in keep- ing grades steady during distance learn- Many social, economic issues ing as it is hard to be unable to get the same support one might receive during will hinge on the choices face-to-face learning. voters make at the ballot box Another facet of the new sched- ule is Hawk Lunch and Learn (HLL), a 30-minute period when students have a choice to go to different classrooms to participate in different academic or leisure activities. During distance learn- ing, HLL is optional, which may be important in making the schedule more efficient. The fact that HLL is optional helps students be less stressed because

Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA if they don’t want to participate, then they can use the time to do something There are many Cooper se- else or have some time for themselves. niors who will be old enough to At the same time, it is also im- vote on November 3 this year. portant that HLL was not complete- ly removed because it allows for By ANDREA TRIBBLE students to have some interaction Quill staff writer with each other while participating in different activities. This is helpful Whether you’re swinging because the pandemic has made per- red or blue, voting is very im- sonal interactions difficult. portant. As a country, we’re The efficiency of the new daily facing a global pandemic, in- Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA and weekly schedule does not only ben- creased racial inequalities, a efit students but also teachers. Teaching While it was confusing at first, the revamped daily schedule has helped keep students on track. global warming crisis, wild- three or four classes every day rather fire issues and immigrant By YORDANOSE MULAT The block schedule plays a big in and logging out of different classes than teaching seven classes every day children being ripped from Quill staff writer part in making the daily and weekly every 45 minutes would be difficult. can reduce the stress on teachers. Teach- their families and stuffed into schedule work well. The block sched- For example, if a student has a poor ers have more time to create beneficial, cages. These are just a few of Cooper students have been in the ule allows students to have time in class internet connection, logging into meets well-taught lessons when they have to the many issues that have yet distance learning model this school to work and ask questions, especially and logging out several times can lead teach fewer classes each day. Teachers to be properly addressed by year, which has been a struggle and considering the fact that the classes are to technology issues that could lead and students can also be more focused our government. difficult to adapt to. However, the new 90 minutes long. Asking questions and to missing class while trying to solve on those three or four daily classes rath- Whatever your stance is daily and weekly schedule introduced getting the answer is a significant fac- those issues. However, in the current er than seven, which would be hard to on these issues, we need lead- this year is efficient and going well, tor in being successful during distance distance learning model, students are jungle in one day. ership. Not only do we need especially when compared to the pre- learning because there is no face-to- able to stay in the meet for 90 minutes Distance learning can be an ex- leadership, but we need leaders ceding distance learning schedule from face contact with teachers. instead of 45 minutes, decreasing the tremely difficult way of conducting that will serve on behalf of all last spring at the start of the pandemic. Moreover, students are also able number of times they have to log in and school. However, the way Cooper has Americans and do what is best The new daily and weekly schedule to be more focused when doing block log off of different meets. approached it has decreased some of for this country. It is easy to be- consists of block scheduling for class- scheduling mainly because they won’t Not having classes on Wednes- the potential hardships. Our teachers lieve that your single vote in a es, which are 90 minutes long; alter- have to juggle seven classes at once in day is another important factor to the and staff have made it possible to make pool of millions of other Amer- nating classes on Mondays, Tuesdays, a single day. Having to do that during efficiency of distance learning and the distance learning flow efficiently by ad- ican votes doesn’t really mat- Thursdays and Fridays; no classes on distance learning can be overwhelm- success of students. Wednesdays are justing our weekly and daily schedule. ter, but you’re wrong. Every Wednesdays; advisory during fifth peri- ing, as we all learned last spring. reserved to catch up on work and visit As seen above, block scheduling, no single vote counts. Voting on od on Mondays; and Hawk Lunch and In addition, the block scheduling teachers if help is needed on any mate- classes on Wednesdays and optional November 3 is a way to make Learn during fifth period on Thursdays. also decreases the number of techno- rial. This allows students to have a day HLL sessions all make distance learn- yourself heard and it’s your All of these changes have contributed logical issues students may face. Tech- of the week where new learning is on ing more productive. It is our duty to chance to be a part of the future to making distance learning extremely nology can be a major downside of dis- pause, allowing them to catch up. The use this helpful schedule to improve of this country. efficient this year. tance learning and constantly logging fact that Wednesdays are provided for our distance learning experience. This country was built on deception. It is said to be founded on the principles of justice and freedom for all, Some students struggle with synchronous learning and on the idea that we should In contrast to last spring's asynchronous approach to distance learning, fall 2020 brought with it real-time virtual lessons honor everyone’s right to the pursuit of happiness. However, By SANDY VUE is definitely different than raising your tired and feeling overwhelmed since doing a lot better now” than they we know these founding princi- Quill staff writer hand and getting an instant and more we are not used to this level of work were last spring. ples skipped over a lot of peo- hands-on answer,” Scheveck said. and accountability from home.” “During the synchronous learning, ple who still have not yet been Beginning the day Robbinsdale Also liking aspects of asynchro- Also praising aspects of the new I’m able to be busy and keep my- granted the rights promised to Area Schools closed due to the pan- nous learning was Melody Vue (9). system is David. self motivated throughout the year, every American. We also know demic on March 13, there has been a “It was much easier since I didn’t “I think it was actually a really whereas, while learning asynchro- our “founding fathers” settled struggle to adapt to a new learning sys- need to follow a schedule and I didn’t smart move considering the circum- nously, I almost gave up on what my on a land that was not theirs. tem for students as well as staff. During need to keep looking at the clock in case stances we’re in. I also think I was grades looked like but still managed This place we call home was the initial time period of the closure last I was late to class,” she said. “I knew able to fit well with after school sports to pull through,” he said. invaded and the natives of this spring, the asynchronous approach to what I needed to do at what time and and everything, and in a way, it actu- In contrast to David, Vue said land were forced out and even learning was placed on students and it have the time to eat when I wanted to.” ally simulates what a college lifestyle she is struggling a bit. killed. This country’s dark had a lot of mixed reviews. This led to In contrast, disliking last spring’s may be like,” he said. “When doing the asynchro- past is not something we can the decision to have a more synchro- approach was Tarnue David (11). Unfortunately, for some students, nous approach, my GPA was around change, but it is something we nous approach this school year during “I feel like everything was kind of the new approach seems more hectic. a 3.8, but when taking the synchro- can learn from. distance learning. However, much like rushed and unorganized, not only with “It’s a little harder because we have nous approach, my grades aren’t do- In order to be true to our the approach last spring, synchronous classes, but with homework and even to wake up at 7 in the morning and have ing well,” she said. name of the United States, we learning has been better for some stu- our separate lives at home,” he said. little time to eat on even days,” Vue said. According to David, in order for must be just that: united. Unity dents and worse for others. As a student athlete, David was “I don’t like to talk in front of people, es- him and his peers to be more success- is no small feat. We have a very One student who has mixed also upset by the lack of spring sports. pecially when the Google Meet is quiet, ful, teachers should “understand that al- long way to go and the first feelings about the new approach is “I was personally upset to have our although being in Google Meets makes though this style of distance learning is a step is an adequate and quali- Sophia Scheveck (12). track season cut, especially since I had it easier to ask questions.” lot better, it still sucks.” fied president. Tomorrow, we “I liked the freedom we had to been selected as captain this year, and In terms of the educational bene- “[There is a] disconnect we as stu- all have a chance to decide who our day with asynchronous learn- spent months in the weight room pre- fits of these two approaches to distance dents may be feeling with our teachers that person might be. ing,” Scheveck said. paring for the season,” he said. learning, the experience has been differ- and, also, not everyone wants to turn If you believe in the poten- However, she added that an While the 2019-2020 school year ent for each individual student because their camera on or even speak at 7:20 in tial of our country to actually asynchronous approach may have ended with asynchronous learning, the each student is not the same. Students the morning,” he said. reflect our founding principles, given too much freedom. 2020-2021 school year started off with learn differently, they have different Therefore, the change to the syn- you will vote on November 3. “No one was there to tell you the synchronous approach to distance home environments and they have dif- chronous approach to distance learning Not only should you vote, you when to work and it was easy to learning. This approach consists of a ferent educational needs. is for the better and worse for different should vote with a purpose forget or waste most of the day specific schedule and Google Meets that There are some students like Sch- students. There isn’t one system that is and an understanding of how doing fun stuff instead of school,” students need to attend. eveck who can adapt to different learn- perfect for every student because while important your single vote is. Scheveck said. “I like that Google Meets bring ing systems more easily than others. She some students will rise, others will fall. Moreover, you should share In contrast, the synchronous structure and accountability to a cer- said her current grades in class are the Thus, there are still many things in the this understanding with ev- approach this year gives us more di- tain extent that asynchronous learning same as they were last year, even with synchronous approach that need to be eryone who still believes their rect access to teachers. didn‘t have,” Scheveck said. “The the new changes to the system. fixed, starting with the fact that every stu- vote doesn’t matter. “Emailing your teacher questions only cons I can think of are being For David, his grades “are dent has different learning styles.

THe Staff Writers Letters to the Editor Editorial Policy Yordanose Mulat Quill Nolan Andler The Quill welcomes Letters to the Editor. The Quill is an open and public forum Jack Atkinson Majay Murphy If you would like to send The Quill your for the thoughts and opinions of all Leadership Staff Ariel Christensen Christopher Nguyen thoughts about a story that ran in the students at Robbinsdale Cooper High Editor-in-Chief Max Rekela-Jasper Erin Chunn Luke Rekela-Jasper paper, or your thoughts about an issue af- School. Editorials contained in the Tiona Edwards Max Rekela-Jasper fecting our school or community, please Opinion section of the newspaper are News Editor Andrew Hagge the views of their respective authors Andrew Hagge Davis Ruppert-Kan word process and email your letter to [email protected] as a text-only alone. They do not necessarily repre- Features Editor Christopher Nguyen Makayla Hott Andrea Tribble file. The Quill reserves the right to edit sent the views of Cooper High School Opinion Editor Sandy Vue Faith King Sandy Vue all Letters to the Editor for space. or Robbinsdale School District 281. Variety Editor Luke Rekela-Jasper Sao Moua Zacari Watson Robbinsdale Cooper High School's Sports Editor Nolan Andler Advertising Support Staff The Quill is a member of the Na- Copy Editors Yordanose Mulat Photographers Erin Chunn To advertise, please write to The Quill, tional Scholastic Press Association. Max Rekela-Jasper Tiona Edwards Robbinsdale Cooper High School, Illustrator D. Ruppert-Kan 8230 47th Avenue North, New Hope, Advertising Jawenah Freeman Advisor Eric Zuccola MN 55428; call at 763-504-8500; or Circulation Zacari Watson Principal Frank Herman email [email protected]. November 2, 2020 Variety Page 5, The Quill Ford vs. Ferrari Rocket League blasts players to free fun will get your The car-based soccer game, which has been increasing in popularity among gamers, went free-to-play in late September

By ANDREW HAGGE pulse racing Quill staff writer An A-list cast brings a real With the start of Rocket story to life with plenty of League season one, Psyonix, drama, comedy, action which created this car-based soccer game in conjunction By NOLAN ANDLER with Epic Games, which has Quill staff writer owned Psyonix since early 2019, went free-to-play on From the creators at Chernin September 23. Rocket League Entertainment and 20th Centu- is now available on every plat- ry Fox comes Ford vs. Ferrari, a form. This is a huge step for drama set in the world of motor- Psyonix, which has kept Rocket sports that is based on a true story. League pay-to-play until now. Released in November 2019, it’s With Epic Games having the a comedic and emotional movie fan base it does, mostly due about friendship, competition and to its huge hit, Fortnite Battle teamwork set in a period when the Royale, they were able to afford Ford Motor Company was strug- making Rocket League avail- gling with money. The cast consists able to everyone at no charge. of award-winning actors such as Psyonix came out with a Christian Bale, Matt Damon, Noah Llama Rama event celebrating Jupe, Josh Lucas and Jon Bernthal. the new advancements a week If you are a motorsports fan, or if you after the new season was live. are just in search of a good movie, Players were able to earn an Ford vs. Ferrari is the one for you. all-new battle bus vehicle as Photo courtesy of PSYONIX I think it's a good movie because of well as new wraps and rewards. The innovations added to Rocket League over the years has opened up new opportunities for Esports. the acting and cinematography. It is Every Wednesday, weekly also a historically accurate movie challenges are brought out to their version of a battle pass, through trading. The price of first of its kind and opened up a that shows the birth of the famous give players things to do while costs $10 of in-game currency. the pass is consistent with most new side of Esports that no one Ford GT car and gets you rooting they wait for more season chal- The Rocket Pass contains 70 other games that have some sort knew existed. The popularity of like it is a live sporting event. lenges to arrive. With Rocket tiers and with it comes brand of game pass or tier system. Esports has grown, and with it The film gets rolling when League having four stages to new items. In the pass, you will Rocket League has always came the Rocket League Cham- Enzo Ferrari (Remo Girone) turns the season challenges, each also get back credits through been a fun game. The basic con- pionship Series on Twitch. down an offer for a merger between new stage, starting with stage which you can afford the next trols are pretty simple and easy Overall, Rocket League is the Ford and Ferrari companies in one, will unlock on a certain one for free. Once you reach to learn. If you play often, you a great game, and with various 1963. Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) date that Psyonix has yet to tier 71 in the pass, you unlock can learn expert controls quick- updates, it continues to im- doesn’t take this too well and decides specify. While these season better rarities of items from ly and will be able to fly in- prove upon itself. The physics to get his revenge by putting togeth- challenges are harder and take the pass, which are worth more game as a car. Being able to fly of this game are quite realistic er a race team to take down Ferrari. longer to complete than week- and have different coloring to is what makes this game unique, when compared to some other He gets former race car driver and ly challenges, they grant better them. The Rocket Pass tiers especially for a game in which games and they are easy to un- current automotive designer Car- rewards. This is meant to give go on until you have collected they combine soccer and racing derstand. The best part is that roll Shelby (Matt Damon), fearless players something to work on every color and type of each cars into an action-packed cre- you can play with your friends race car driver Ken Miles (Christian while waiting for more since item in that season’s pass. In ation called Soc-car. anytime. I strongly recom- Bale) and the rest of Shelby’s crew these will take the average Rocket League, the rarest item Ever since 2015, Rocket mend you try it out for your- at Shelby Motor, Inc. to build a car player weeks to complete. color is Titanium White, which League has always featured new self. Rocket League gets four for Ford that is good enough to take The Rocket Pass, which is can guarantee you some credits ideas. In fact, this game was the out of five stars. down Ferrari. As they strive toward the mission, the central characters deal with personal demons and with corporate interference by the Ford Unusual subject matter adds to appeal of Haikyuu Motor Company itself. Now streaming on Netflix and Crunchyroll, this anime series focuses on a competitive volleyball team When you think about the char- acters in the movie, you don’t think By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN teaches the viewers about vol- of the real Ken Miles or the real Quill staff writer leyball. Viewers of the show can Carroll Shelby, you think of Chris- learn the sport and take something tian Bale and Matt Damon. And that Shoyo Hinata is a determined away from it. Haruichi Furu- is a testament to their great acting. volleyball player who seeks to date, the writer and illustrator of Christian Bale does an extraordinary become a champion in the sport. Haikyuu, doesn’t try to fictionalize job playing a person like Ken Miles, He joins his school’s volleyball volleyball as much as he did with who is fearless and cocky, and Matt club just to find out that they need Kuroko’s Basketball. After some Damon is equally good as Carroll to sharpen their skills and work criticism of Kuroko’s Basketball, Shelby. The emotions they show together as a team if they want he decided to add only a little bit are really fun to watch and it never to make it to the top. This is the of “fictional aspects” such as the sounds like it is scripted. premise of the popular anime series height of Hinata’s running jump Also great are all of the actors Haikyuu, which is now streaming and his spike setups with his team- who play the Ford employees. For on Netflix and Crunchyroll. Its mate Kageyama. Although there example, Josh Lucas as Leo Beebe unique combination of subject is a bit of exaggeration, it doesn’t and Jon Bernthal as Lee Iacocca feel matter, story telling and pacing affect the integrity of the show. By like they are auto industry profes- make this a show that everyone taking a largely realistic approach, sionals when you see them on the screen. They all fit their characters should check out. Photo courtesy of MAINICHI BROADCASTING SYSTEM the show’s creators make room for The company behind Haikyuu characters to develop and grow as well and that’s another thing that The show strives for realism in its depiction of the sport of volleyball. is Production I.G, a famous pro- individuals, which viewers will see makes this a good movie. duction studio that has created hit fact that they focus on team chem- which it is based. The story and an- as the series goes on. Another highlight of the mov- shows like Kuroko’s Basketball, istry and show the day-to-day life imation are unique and you won’t In conclusion, I think the show ie is its combination of excellent Guilty Crown and Ace of Diamond. of practicing. It is enjoyable wit- see a dip in animation quality as is worth checking out and it lives directing and special effects. This This studio is well known for its nessing the character development you watch it. I’d say the story arcs up to its hype. Not only is the au- is most apparent in the film’s race sports anime and their understand- and seeing them work together are consistently interesting and thor aware of the actual sport, but scenes, which accurately show ing of the actual sports they cover. through hardships. they will keep you on your toes. he also tries to teach you about it. what the tracks they raced at back For example, Kuroko’s Basketball The pacing of the show is well There are also superficial things The animation quality lives up to in that time period looked like and Ace of Diamond display a designed. Most anime are missing that contribute to having a good its expectation and the storyline thanks to subtle special effects. One bit of realism in sports and teach key scenes from the original man- experience while watching the is interesting. The connection be- specific sequence that shows the the audience some sort of moral ga, but I think Production I.G did show, such as the soundtrack and tween the anime and manga is good great directing is in the beginning lesson related to sportsmanship. a good job at keeping the animated the animation itself. and the character development is of the film. When Ford gets all of Something in common between version of Haikyuu accurate with One particularly interesting strong. Haikyuu earns a rating of his executives to go to the balcony Haikyuu and the other shows is the respect to the original manga on thing about the show is that it four stars out of five. level above the factory where they build the cars to yell at the employ- ees about the direction the compa- Adventurous viewers should be open to Ending Things ny is going in, it always provokes The new Charlie Kaufman movie, which is available on Netflix, continues that director's reputation for challenging films a chuckle given the way the actors walk like they are secret agents. By DAVIS RUPPERT-KAN matter and real focus of the film existentialist and depressing, yourself, as is the case with much One last element that is good Quill staff writer is pretty blatant by the title alone, tonally and thematically. of Kaufman’s work, which ranges in this movie is the music. Songs one still might want to go into the As for the rest? I’d hate to from Being John Malkovich to like “Polk Salad Annie,” which “I’m thinking of ending things. film completely blind. For those spoil it. No, really. Even though Synecdoche, New York. The point plays during scenes when they Once this thought arrives, it stays. of his movies is to figure them out are either racing or testing the car, It sticks, it lingers, it dominates. yourself and ascribe meaning to gives the impression that the cars There’s not much I can do about things as you see fit. are going fast. Another scene that it. Trust me. It doesn’t go away.” I actually wrote and delet- I actually wrote and deleted is fun due to its use of music is the These are the opening lines ed about 500 words of this about 500 words of this review sequence when Iacocca goes to talk of the latest Charlie Kaufman just because I really didn’t want with Ferrari. The intrigue of the movie, aptly titled, I’m Thinking review just because I really to spoil this movie but also really possible merger is backed up by a of Ending Things. didn’t want to spoil this mov- wanted to write about it none- background song that sounds like A bit of a dark start, I must theless. I dunno. Maybe you’ll music from a spy film. admit. Let’s back up. ie but also really wanted to derive the same meanings and Overall, the reason why all Ending Things, the new Net- write about it nonetheless. conclusions as I did. I really can’t movie fans should watch Ford vs. flix movie, stars Jesse Plemons say much else without spoiling Ferrari is that they do a perfect job and Jessie Buckley as a romanti- it, but it is a fantastic, beautiful mixing drama with laughs thanks to cally dead couple, Jake and Lucy, film, and I heavily suggest you the excellent acting, directing, cam- respectively, as they go to visit of you who don’t want spoilers the initial twist and true meaning watch it if you can stomach the era work and music. If you are in the former’s parents’ rural home. of any kind whatsoever, I’ll just of the film is pretty apparent as subject matter. I rate I’m Thinking need of a good movie, whether you That’s about as much as I can say say not to watch the movie if soon as the other main character of Ending Things somewhere are a motorsports fan or not, this is on the purely surface level. you’re depressed or going through appears, it’s still more individ- between four and four-and-a-half a great one to watch. I give Ford vs. While the actual subject difficulties yourself, as it’s quite ually impactful to realize it for stars out of five. Ferrari five out of five stars. Page 6, The Quill Variety November 2, 2020 Premier Performers First Spider-Man still spins its web The story of the musicians and artists who bring their talents to Cooper Sam Raimi's classic take on the Marvel character holds up nearly two decades later Emily Hernandez By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN of how my sister and dad both play their Quill staff writer own instruments, so I always wanted to play my own,” she said. Emily Hernandez (12) is part of Her favorite choir memory is when Cooper’s choir and band programs. She is she sang with the Cooper choir at Orches- currently in Concert Choir, Wind Ensem- tra Hall for the first time. ble, Jazz Band and Marching Band. Her- “[I liked] hearing how the band, nandez has been in a band for choir and orchestra sounded a total amount of nine years. on the pieces each group prac- “I started in fourth ticed so hard for,” she said. grade,” she said. As for band, she enjoys As for choir, Hernandez practicing with her peers and has been doing it for seven performing at football games. years. She said she joined “[I like] all of the choir on an impulse. marching band practices “For choir, I have been and football games with Mr. in it since sixth grade, so for Photo by E. HERNANDEZ Hahn and the band,” she said. seven years. Joining choir Hernandez said she will was at first an accident, but continue with music for the as time went on, I really did start liking the remainder of the year. In fact, choir and class, so I continued to do it,” she said. band are such a big part of her life that she

Hernandez said her interest in music wants to pursue music after high school. Photo courtesy of COLUMBIA PICTURES comes from the fact she looks up to her “It really became a big part of my Before Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield, it was Tobey Maguire inside the famous Spider-Man spandex. sister and dad, who also play instruments. life and I wouldn’t think about stopping “I decided to start playing because anytime soon,” she said. By LUKE REKELA-JASPER origin with Norman’s, showing the Raimi’s filmmaking style reaches its Quill staff writer contrast between how both of these full potential, with interesting camera characters transform. angles, great choreography and rapid Spider-Man is one of Marvel His big change inspires Peter editing upping the intensity. Zoe Hollander Comics’ and pop culture’s most to use his powers in a fighting tour- Spider-Man does persist in By SANDY VUE spend even more time with one of my famous fictional characters whose nament in order to win prize money causing the Goblin to surrender and Quill staff writer best friends. Our overnight from that year popularity has led to him appearing that he can use to buy a fancy car to reveal himself as Norman, who asks sticks out as a particularly good memory; in many forms of digital media, such impress MJ. However, Peter’s greed Peter to help him and to “be a son to Zoe Hollander (12) is involved in a bit chaotic, but fun nonetheless,” she said. as film, television and animated fea- for his own personal gain causes an him now.” However, Peter reveals he theater, choir, long-form improv and select Hollander has held leadership roles in tures. From 2000-2020, Spider-Man argument between him and his Un- had a father whose “name was Ben vocal ensembles. She has been involved in her arts activities. The most prominent role has appeared in many different forms cle Ben, who is worried for Peter af- Parker.” Norman’s desire to kill Peter these Cooper activities for four years and was being an improv captain alongside and film adaptations, and he contin- ter Peter gets in a fight at school and overshadows his desire to get help, has been taking acting classes two co-captains. She also has ues to grow and evolve as time goes forgets to help Ben paint the house causing Norman to inadvertently kill since she was seven. been a choir assistant. on. For this review, I will be discuss- because he is distracted by testing himself while trying to impale Peter During her years in Moving forward, Hol- ing the 2002 Spider-Man movie, di- his powers. In my favorite scene in with his spiked glider. At the end of theater, Hollander’s favorite lander said she is hopeful rected by Sam Raimi with a screen- the film, Ben tells Peter, “With great the film, Harry blames Spider-Man role was playing Wednes- improv will happen this year. play by David Koepp. I believe this power, comes great responsibility.” for his father’s death and MJ finally day Addams in the Addams “Improv is planning on is one of the strongest outings for the Peter immediately shrugs off this decides to be with Peter, who she re- Family musical. holding auditions for new Spider-Man character when it comes advice and demands that Ben stop alizes is the right person for her. The “If not for that show, I members soon and is look- to his presence in films. “pretending to be” his father. The fact that each character experiences a likely wouldn’t be as close ing to do shows in some for- Spider-Man begins by show- performances of the actors in this se- suitable fate at the end of the film is with two of my best friends Photo by Z. HOLLANDER mat this year, and I’ve heard casing all of its important charac- quence is a highlight of the film. evidence of the movie’s strong struc- as I am now,” she said. tell of a fall show and winter ters. Peter Parker, played by Tobey Following his victory in the ture and effective characterization. Friendship has also musical,” she said. Maguire, is a typical bullied high cage match, Peter allows a criminal In the end, Peter puts the “man” been important in improv. During her Some plans that she holds for her school nerd. Peter’s love interest, to steal the prize money because he in Spider-Man. He has completed sophomore year in that activity she “fi- future are to attend college and pursue a Mary Jane “MJ” Watson, played by “missed the part where that’s his his mission in defeating Norman nally began to feel comfortable in scenes” Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theater. Kirsten Dunst, is a kind-hearted stu- problem.” To Peter’s shock, the crim- and his main goal at the start of the thanks to her friends. “I intend to turn my passion dent mixed up with the wrong group inal who he lets go ends up killing film, which was to be with MJ. De- “I got to work with some very into my profession; at least, that’s the of people secretly searching for the Uncle Ben, who was out looking for spite this, Peter knows that having good friends for the last time and got to goal,” Hollander said. right person to be with. Peter’s best Peter. Now using Uncle Ben’s advice people close to him puts them in friend, Harry Osborne, played by and realizing what his own personal danger, so he must reject MJ to keep James Franco, is the son of a sci- gain has cost him, Peter decides to her safe. Peter is now taking Ben’s Sarah Lehnertz entist, Norman Osborne, played by become a crime-fighting superhero advice into full account: “With great Willem Dafoe, with whom he does in New York dubbed “Spider-Man.” power comes great responsibility.” By JACK ATKINSON Cooper theater shows. not have an ideal father-son relation- Not surprisingly, the structure While he may use his spider powers Quill staff writer “Playing Little Girl in Ragtime was ship. Norman secretly idolizes Peter, of the screenplay soon brings Spi- to help ensure his selfless gain, it is definitely my favorite theater memory and who recognizes Norman’s work and der-Man into conflict with the Green the “man” part of Peter that he grows Sarah Lehnertz (12) is in Concert I even got to do a little ballet,” she said. admires him, which leads to issues Goblin. After several encounters into at the end. Choir, Bella Voce, color guard, theater Although many of her perfor- with Harry. with Spider-Man, the Green Goblin In conclusion, Spider-Man and short-form improv. mance activities are on hold right now While on a school field trip proposes to Spider-Man an alliance holds up as one of the best super- “I have been doing singing my due to the pandemic, Lehnertz said that early in the film, Peter is bitten by a to take over New York together. Spi- hero origin films. Still, I only give whole life, but my first year of choir was color guard is happening. radioactive spider, which transforms der-Man refuses, turning the Goblin Spider-Man three out of five stars All-District Choir in fifth “We have a total of his body, giving him the abilities to further against him. Shortly thereaf- because there are several noticeable grade,” she said. three performances at home shoot webs, climb walls and have su- ter, Norman learns Peter’s identity errors, including some problems Prior to that, Lehnertz football games,” she said. per-strength, though at the cost of his as Spider-Man, recognizing a flesh with the practical and CGI effects, said she did solos for school When it comes to ego. Followed by Peter’s transfor- wound he gave to Spider-Man, and some points in the film where talent shows and church pro- school, choir and history are mation is Norman’s, who undergoes which inspires the Goblin to hospital- characters do things for no reason grams, which is what helped two subject Lehnertz enjoys. an experiment which turns him into ize Peter’s Aunt May and kidnap MJ. at all. Nonetheless, Spider-Man is draw her to music. “I really like singing a deranged murderer who wears a Spider-Man saves MJ and battles the a unique, one-of-a-kind superhero “In every activity, I’ve with all my friends and I green military field suit, which leads Goblin in a brutal and hard-hitting movie and a must-watch for any always felt like I had some- really like getting to study to him later being dubbed the Green fight that results in Peter being all comic book fan thanks to its engag- Goblin. I really love Raimi and bloodied up and physically in pain. ing story about what it means to be- one to talk to and everyone Photo by S. LEHNERTZ the past, ” she said. is working towards a com- Outside of school, Koepp’s choice to follow up Peter’s It is in fight scenes such as this that come a man. mon goal, whether it be to Lehnertz enjoys working, make someone in the crowd laugh, cry, hanging out with friends and pursuing STUDENTS REVAMP HABITS continued from page 1 and everything in between,” she said. her interests in music and photography. Meanwhile, Tran said he planned to be successful was by board [has] every single thing Some of Lehnertz's favorite perfor- As for the future, Lehnertz is was ready for virtual learning. using a “calendar and to-do list I want and need to accomplish mance memories involved the district’s "thinking of possibly pursuing journal- “I felt that I was mentally for assignments, both of which and how I’m going to accom- annual fall festival for music and the ism, advertising or even psychology." prepared for the new school really helped [him] adjust to the plish them,” David said. year,” he said. new block schedule.” Finally, Hambike said that Another major part of be- In addition, David said she she made new goals and tries to Hannah Hoffstrom ing ready for virtual learning created a “dream board” for the work with and around people this school year included plan- current school year. that she knows are successful By FAITH KING Complex. When she is not dancing at the ning for success. The way Tran “My high school dream in the classroom. Quill staff writer studio, she is teaching and helping young- er dancers learn their routines. Hannah Hoffstrom (12) partic- “Dance is year-round, so that Quill Comics Corner ipates in choir at Cooper. Hoffstrom keeps me very busy. I really never Uhmm...Working Title joined choir in fifth grade and contin- have a day off, but I wouldn’t want it By Davis Ruppert-Kan ued on with it throughout middle and any other way,” Hoffstrom said. high school. One highlight of choir When she’s not busy with choir for Hoffstrom has been or dance, some of her hob- her friendships. bies include photography “I’ve enjoyed making and cooking. lifelong friendships and As for a career path, memories that I will cher- Hoffstrom has “a couple of ish,” she said. options.” She plans on either One of Hoffstrom’s fa- going to Iowa State Univer- vorite memories from choir sity to study meteorology or was their trip to San Antonio attending the University of during her sophomore year. Photo by H. HOFFSTROM Minnesota, Twin Cities to She also enjoyed playing study chemistry. “boomwhackers” for their One thing Hoffstrom World Music Concert. knows for sure is that she would like Outside of school, a huge part of to continue her dance career in the fu- Hoffstrom’s life is dance. She has been ture, whether that means auditioning dancing since the age of four and is cur- for her college’s dance team or con- rently a competitive dancer for The Dance tinuing to work at her dance studio. November 2, 2020 Sports Page 7, The Quill Athletes adjust to fall season Cooper Competitors Changes to practices, competitions due to COVID require team members to be flexible The story of the athletes who strive for success in Cooper sports Amalia Villalobos By YORDANOSE MULAT team and “singing the Cooper song.” Quill staff writer During the winter sports season, Villalobos participates in Nordic skiing. Amalia Villalobos (12) competes Last season went well for the team. in soccer during the fall, Nordic in the “We had a lot of fun and peo- winter and ultimate Frisbee in the spring. ple were able to improve their race Villalobos has been playing soccer for 15 scores,” Villalobos said. years. Moreover, Villalobos has a history As for the spring, Villalobos plays of soccer in her family. ultimate Frisbee. However, “Both of my parents their last season was can- played soccer and were celed due to COVID-19. coaches of our rec team. I When it comes to ac- grew to love it and so I con- ademics, Villalobos likes tinued to play,” she said. chemistry and biology. Villalobos was one of “I have always loved the captains leading the soc- and been interested in the sci- cer team this year and she said ences,” she said.

she had a great experience. Photo by A. VILLALOBOS Some hobbies Vil- “I would say being a lalobos pursues include captain has gone well. The club soccer, traveling, three of us have been able to recruit new road trips and camping. girls and get them to love the sport as In college, Villalobos would like Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA much as us,” Villalobos said. to “major in biology” with the hopes Members of the boys cross country team wear masks and social distance to travel to the October 14 sections meet. One of Villalobos’ favorite mem- of “possibly become a sports medicine ories in soccer is riding the bus with the physician or a PA.” By NOLAN ANDLER is that I wish we didn’t waste over tance learning, which has brought Quill staff writer a month of our fall season only to re- different challenges to students who verse the decision made August 4 to take part in sports. Cooper fall athletes experienced wait until spring,” he said. “The first week of classes in Henry Suah a 2020 fall sports season that saw the As for safety protocols during PSEO at the [University of Minnesota] By MAX REKELA-JASPER special,” Suah said. “It was long and ad- COVID-19 pandemic and distance practice, West said they try to wear was pretty hard since I had to learn a Quill staff writer venturous, and we had time to talk with learning bring many challenges and re- masks as often as possible. new site and how it works while going each other and build a team bond.” strictions to practices and games. “We have to wear masks except to soccer practice,” Grandbois said. Henry Suah (12) plays soccer in In school, Suah’s favorite subjects are The announcement that fall when we have our helmets on or when Also facing school challenges the fall for Cooper. In the winter and math, English and AVID because he has a sports such as soccer, tennis and cross we are properly socially distanced,” he is Grace Hambike (12), captain of spring, he plays soccer for a club team. strong connection with his classmates. country would still take place this year said. “The only reason why we don’t the girls cross country team. Suah is one of the four captains of “I want to go to college and major brought a lot of joy to the members of use them with helmets is so we can “I’m in full IB diploma and the Cooper boys soccer team this year. in business and marketing,” Suah said. “I those Cooper teams. wear mouthguards to protect against some classes are harder than others “I’ve been playing soc- hope one day I can own my “It has added a lot of relief that head injuries like concussions.” when it comes to them being taught cer since I was five years old own business and help my we’ve been able to play a few fall sports One major thing that the virus is online,” she said. in Liberia,” Suah said. family back in Africa.” because it has added some normalcy to affecting is the college recruiting pro- While distance learning has Suah chose this sport Suah also stated that our lives,” Bella Grandbois (12), captain cess. Coaches have been limited on been hard for some athletes, others because, in his home coun- he wanted to continue of the girls soccer team, said. “It is very contacting recruits due to the pandem- like West said he has not experi- try of Liberia, soccer was playing soccer in college, weird not having to show up to school ic. Fortunately, for some athletes like enced much of a problem with it. the main activity he and his as he loves soccer with a every day, so an activity that brings me Grandbois, recruiting was already done “So far, it hasn’t been difficult. friends did as kids. strong passion. there with my friends has been super last summer, but for others, adjustments With classes in the morning two “Back in Liberia, my In his free time, fun and a blessing during this time.” had to be made. days a week, it gives me plenty of cousin came to visit and was Photo by HENRY SUAH Suah enjoys playing However, they had to make a “The dead period that was extend- time for football in the afternoon juggling a soccer ball and FIFA on PlayStation and number of changes to keep the players ed to January 1 has limited the ability of and homework in the morning and I thought it was the coolest watching movies and safe. According to Grandbois, many of coaches to come and see them play,” evenings,” he said. thing in the world, so I was determined television series. His favorite movies the changes related to social distancing. she said. “Coaches not being able to In fact, some of the flexibility to learn how to do it,” Suah said. to watch are the movies in the Mar- “One of the hardest parts of the come see them pushes back their in the distance learning schedule Suah has enjoyed traveling during vel Cinematic Universe. season is that we haven’t been able to chance to receive offers.” has helped fall athletes get in bet- his time playing soccer for Cooper. “I’ll take Marvel [movies] over do any team bonding,” she said. Of course, not all athletes are fo- ter shape. West said he has been “The bus ride to Duluth was very DC any day of the week,” Suah said. Practices have been impacted and cused on the recruiting process this fall. getting up to lift at 4:15 a.m. every changed around in lots of ways for all Instead, they are just happy to play. morning before school. sports to limit contact. “Recruiting is on the back burner “The lifting is mostly to gain “We have to fill out a survey daily right now. I’m more focused on getting strength and muscle mass to gain William West saying how we feel, and we have san- to state this year. That’s the number one weight so I can be successful in my itizer and wear masks unless we are goal right now,” West said. position on the offensive line and defen- By MAX REKELA-JASPER West will be returning to Nordic as a cap- playing,” Grandbois said. At the same time, West added sive line,” he said. Quill staff writer tain for a second year. Another sport that had to change that on-the-field success can still get a Meanwhile, Grandbois said she “Last season went great,” West William West (12) plays foot- up its approach to practice was football. recruiter’s attention. has been running, lifting and meeting said. “I had tons of fun, but the goals I set ball in the fall, skis on the Nordic In fact, it did not look at first like they “I’m hopeful that, with the short- “with an individual training coach to for myself weren’t completed, so I hope team in the winter and plays ultimate would have a season, let alone practice, ened season, I can still put together a work on [her] technical skill.” to fulfill them this coming season.” Frisbee in the spring. due to a decision that football would great performance with the help of my Finally, Hambike said she has In the spring, West is also one of West is one of the nine captain nom- take place in spring. Captain William teammates to get noticed,” he said. been focusing on staying injury-free. the ultimate Frisbee captains. inees for the four captain spots West (12) said he was happy that deci- In addition to the challenges “I have been ensuring that I stay “I have a lot of fun play- on the Cooper football team. sion was changed. COVID has brought to practicing, on track with my workout and that I ing this sport,” West said. This is West’s 11th season as a “I really can’t say how I feel competing and getting attention am listening to my body since I am In school, West enjoys football player. In fact, he has about a spring season. All I know from colleges, it has also led to dis- prone to injury,” she said. all of his classes. He does played every season since he the PSEO program, through was in second grade. which he is taking classes at “I must say, I didn’t Hennepin Technical College Teachers get innovative with PE really pick it,” West said. in Eden Prairie for marine “My dad recognized that COVID requires Cooper's physical education department to think in new ways about their classes and motorsport technology. my brother and I loved it and Photo by WILLIAM WEST After high school, By ANDREW HAGGE own confines, physical education meet in our Google Meets. I think all signed [us] up for a youth West plans to become a Quill staff writer teachers had to create a new way of teachers would agree that it is really league when we both met the technician in the marine teaching this year.” tough to talk to a blank screen all day age requirement.” and motorsport field. COVID-19 has forced some One method for transitioning long,” she said. The main thing West enjoys about “Someday, I would like to open classes that rely on in-person partic- physical education classes to dis- While the changes to physical playing football for Cooper is how close- my own business to deal with them ipation to transition to a fully online tance learning has been giving stu- education classes have been chal- ly knit the team is. or work for someone who manufac- format. While this has been a chal- dents more choice and independence. lenging, Ms. Rademacher, who has During the winter sports season, turers them,” West said. lenge for all Cooper teachers, it has Schaffer said members of her depart- been working at Cooper for 23 years, been especially difficult for members ment worked hard to figure out ways said she was feeling rewarded with of the physical education department. of getting students to be active while the outcomes that came from the JJ Collier “I never thought I would be also complying with the COVID-19 additional planning. Although she dealing with something like this,” Ms. guidelines so that everyone stays safe. said that much of the curriculum in By FAITH KING memories was going around volunteer- Schaffer, who has been the ninth and 10th grade Quill staff writer ing and helping people in the communi- teaching physical educa- classes has “not been that ty with his teammates. tion classes at Cooper for different than in years JJ Collier (12) plays football for As a varsity player, Collier said he 18 years, said. “PE is usually a place where stu- past,” Rademacher said Cooper in the fall, basketball in the win- knows the importance of leading by ex- Physical education dents can come in and have fun the elective physical edu- ter and has recently started running track ample for the younger players. classes rely on physi- cation classes she teaches in the spring. “Me and everyone on varsity does cal activity and playing while playing games with their needed a lot of revisions. Collier has been playing backyard a great job at helping them,” he said. games, which means that friends, but, because we are not in “We are focusing football his whole life, but Collier’s favorite sub- teachers of these classes on individual wellness first joined a team when he ject in school is math. typically have everything person, it is literally a totally differ- overall to keep every- was in eighth grade. “I’ve always been planned for the gyms and ent ballgame,” Ms. Schaffer said. one as healthy as possi- “What convinced me intrigued by the possibili- outside, not for a comput- ble,” she said. to play was my friends and ty of being able to solve a er at a student’s home. In Both teachers knew the energy I felt when I played problem and understand order to give students the that planning for this year my first time,” he said. how it is either right or same information and a similar expe- “[Students] can pick from would be difficult following the expe- A highlight of play- wrong,” he said. rience to what they would have if they a variety of high-, medium- or rience of moving to distance learning ing football for Collier is Outside of school, were learning in person, physical ed- low-intensity options that we give last spring. However, they said they the team unity. Photo by JJ COLLIER Collier enjoys jogging, ucation teachers needed to get crafty them,” Schaffer said. learned from last year’s experience. “I have a group of peo- playing games related to and creative with their instruction. One drawback to distance “PE is usually a place where ple I can call my brothers sports and drawing. “Typically, we have an idea learning Schaffer pointed out was students can come in and have fun and call on any of them if I’m ever in “It’s one of my talents not many of what our units are going to look her inability to actually see her stu- while playing games with their trouble. Also, who doesn’t love Friday people know about,” he said. like and what equipment we need to dents during class. friends, but, because we are not in night games with everybody seeing After high school, Collier plans on make them happen,” Schaffer said. “I would love to see more stu- person, it is literally a totally differ- your talents put on display?” he said. attending North Dakota State University “But with everyone is stuck in their dents showing their faces when we ent ballgame,” Schaffer said. One of Collier’s favorite football and majoring in architecture. Page 8, The Quill Sports November 2, 2020 Vikings season Coaches curb COVID with hard work off to poor start The unpredictable nature of the pandemic means that Hawks coaches are doing more than usual to ensure athlete safety despite roster by Howard as a coach due to the de- layed start to football, other fall sports Gifted players are not such as cross country were more for- tunate when it came to the impact of yet working as a unit to COVID-19 on fall sports coaches. achieve team victories “Our cross country meets hav- en’t really been postponed,” head girls By ANDREW HAGGE cross country coach and social stud- Quill staff writer ies teacher Mr. DiSalvi said. “In fact, we will end up with almost the same The Vikings started the season amount of meets as a regular season.” through week seven with a 1-5 record Cooper fall coaches have been and with many troubles throughout the trying to keep their athletes positive and lineup. The defense is struggling with- motivated through this unusual time, out key players who were let go over and DiSalvi and the rest of the cross the offseason due to cap space, and the country staff are no exception to this. offense, even with first-round pick Jus- “We are very patient and un- tin Jefferson, is struggling to overcome derstanding when students are ab- defense after defense. sent from practice. We have tried to The struggles that have been make practice fun in unusual ways, shown in Minnesota’s defense are not like having ‘blue days’ and ‘orange quite what fans expected of the team. days,’ where kids have to wear blue Defensively, the Vikings look really or orange to practice. We have also strong through the lineup, yet some- tried to have socially distant scaven- how, they are having difficulty stop- ger hunts as well,” he said. ping one team after another. Along Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA Much like Howard, DiSalvi the D-line, the Vikings picked up both has learned that flexibility is the Cross country coach Mr. DiSalvi addresses his runners while wearing a mask, one of this season's safety protocols. Yannick Ngakoue and Ifeadi Odenig- name of the game when coaching bo to replace weak spots left by past By ANDREA TRIBBLE practices,” Howard said. al classrooms. Howard said they are during a pandemic. lineman who were let go due to cap Quill staff writer According to Howard, he and also stressing that players keep the “We just found out about a space problems. As the season started, his coaching staff have done many team GPA in the first quarter over 3.0. week and half ago we were going the defense looked like it would be In the wake of the coronavi- things to keep spirits hopeful amidst These moves are personal to to have a section race for cross fine and do just as well as it has in past rus and distance learning, Cooper the uncertainty of the fall season. For Howard, who has two children that country. This was really unexpected years, but as everyone now knows, it’s athletics have been put in a difficult one, he said the coaching staff has al- are part of Cooper athletics. As a re- since there is currently no plan for not even close. position. There have been ques- ways instilled the fact that football is sult, he gets a first-hand look at the a state meet and we normally have According to ESPN.com, the tions about postponing or canceling bigger than “Friday Night Lights.” impact of both distance learning and our season schedule planned be- Vikings are allowing the second-most seasons, modifications to the ways “This is no exception to the sports on athletes. fore athletes go on summer break. points per game in the league at 32. practices and games are conducted, motto. With that said, our players en- “Even though sports were up Although sudden changes like The only defense that is worse is that and an emphasis on keeping athletes joy the team feeling and coming to- in the air, we value that we wake these can frustrate me as a coach, I of the Dallas Cowboys, who are at 36 safe. This has forced Cooper coaches gether. The family atmosphere is the up daily with a chance to make our always have to take a deep breath points. Just about every offense that to adapt to the times. number one priority for our team, so day better today than it was yester- and remember that all the work I do has gone against the Vikings has found Mr. Howard, Cooper’s varsity that is what keeps our players moti- day. It [was] emotionally draining to hopefully makes a better experience a way to beat them. football head coach and 10th grade vated,” he said. see my children not able to compete for the athletes,” DiSalvi said. The defense needs to find a way principal, is no stranger to the chal- In addition to players being in the sport they love [before the Like a handful of other coaches, to be a stronger unit with fewer mis- lenges of both distance learning and forced to adapt to safety precautions MSHSL reversed course], but as a DiSalvi is also a teacher in the build- takes and points allowed. With Eric the impact of COVID-19 on high and changes within the sport that leader, we remind our players and I ing, which adds to the workload and Kendricks leading the team in tack- school sports. After entering the they’ve become so accustomed to, remind my children that it’s always the struggle to find ways to adapt to les, it seems as if no one else is doing school year thinking that football they have also been facing changes 100 percent of the time important to COVID’s effect on sports and school. much when looking at stats. In short, and volleyball would be on hold un- with their education due to distance err on the side of safety and health,” “It gets a bit exhausting having the defense needs to force more turn- til spring 2021, it was decided by the learning. Distance learning has led Howard said. to get up early and manage my ath- overs, have better coverage of receiv- MSHSL on September 21 that the to an unusual start to the school year Of course, in addition to being letes for six days a week on top of my ers, and stop the run more than ever two sports would still take place in and Howard and his staff continue to a coach, Howard is also a member typical teaching duties, so at times before. These are the main issues that late fall, getting rid of any concerns hold their athletes at a high standard of the Cooper staff, which brings it feels like I have had less free time needs to be addressed if they want to about a spring season. Howard said of academic leadership. a number of additional challenges than in a typical season,” he said. make the playoffs. that preparing for a season during a “We have implemented a new during distance learning. Even with all the extra respon- The offense has had its own is- pandemic has forced his and other standard for our team to remind “I have been working hard with sibilities, DiSalvi is a representation sues this season, from a poor offen- fall sports teams to integrate safety our students that they need to be our amazing Cooper admin team and of the passion coaches have for their sive line to key running backs being precautions. He also said that foot- the leaders in the class, even with teachers to provide an exceptional ex- sports and athletes. hurt. However, Kirk Cousins has been ball faced the additional challenge of distance learning or hybrid instruc- perience for our students. Days have “I am also very fortunate the biggest problem. In just six games, having to get ready quickly. tion,” Howard said. been long yet rewarding as an assis- to coach such a group of kind, he has thrown 10 interceptions. That “We still needed to and will The coaching staff have created tant principal to see that students are hard-working girls. Seeing them is the most in the entire league. What’s continue to have alternative training the opportunity for “team upgrades” more engaged in class and working have fun and improve every day worse about that stat is that Cousins for our players. We had about 80 as an incentive for his players to hard to be great,” he said. really gives me a sense of pride and has been the quarterback all 10 times. players in week one of voluntary step up and be leaders in their virtu- In contrast to the challenges faced satisfaction,” he said. Every time one is thrown, it costs the team a crucial scoring chance, from the measly three points a field goal can bring to a touchdown that might Twins season has stellar start, flawed finish give them a lead. Cousins has been Although favored to go far in the playoffs, the Twins yet again fell flat when the postseason arrived out of it and throwing into horrible places, which one could say is the By NOLAN ANDLER Once the season kicked off this streaks that put them behind in the things around enough to win the divi- main reason Minnesota loses. Quill staff writer summer, the Twins started off hot, standings. During this bad patch, the sion. Their seed in the playoffs allowed On the upside, the running backs winning their first four series and Twins struggled with leaving players them to avoid playing the Yankees, are doing a great job. Dalvin Cook, The Twins didn’t have it as achieving a record of 10-2. Led by on base and the pitching started to who have knocked them out of the who was drafted in 2017, had more easy in 2020 as they did last year. Nelson Cruz, Max Kepler, Byron go downhill again. playoffs repeatedly in recent years. than 100 yards each week until he had With the return of most of last year’s Buxton, Josh Donaldson and Eddie While the Twins had their fair Instead, the first round matched them a groin injury in week five, bringing team, which broke the Major League Rosario, along with a pitching cast led share of struggles, they also had their up against the Houston Astros in a best- his amazing record to a halt. He scored Baseball home run record, and the big by Kenta Maeda that looked like they bright spots as the season went on. of-three series based at Target Field. seven touchdowns through five games, offseason signings of Josh Donaldson, were much improved from last season, Despite losing some games that they Unfortunately, despite many which is impressive considering how Rich Hill, Homer Bailey and Kenta the Twins were making things happen. shouldn’t have lost, they also had advantages, it was the same playoff much the offense has struggled. Maeda, it looked like this would be However, as the season went some great series wins against teams song for the Twins. The Astros swept Out wide toward the receivers, the Twins team that would break on, the Twins started to struggle. The like the Cardinals, Cubs, Brewers the team, which means the Twins have Justin Jefferson has exploded, already the franchise’s postseason winless team lost some valuable players to and Indians. They also tied the series now lost 18 straight postseason games. tallying more than 160 yards through drought and make a run to the World injury, including Byron Buxton and against an improved White Sox team. While the loss left a lot of Twins only nine catches. The number of catch- Series. Unfortunately, that is not how Josh Donaldson. Also injured were It is important to note that all of those fans upset and angry, there is a lot of es shows that he gets almost 20 yards a everything played out. two pitchers that the team traded for teams made the playoffs. hope for the future of the Twins. With catch, which shows he is a player who The first obstacle was the pan- who were playing well, Homer Bai- The team also got great pro- the production that the Twins got can really help when going down field. demic, which hit last spring just as the ley and Rich Hill, along with veteran duction from some of their rookies, from the rookies, and the players they Similarly, the veteran who has MLB was starting up. While it at first Jake Odorizzi. Adding to the injury especially Lamont Wade, Jr., Brent signed this season, the Twins won’t done exceptionally well in recent years, looked like the league was going to setbacks were the struggles of several Rooker and Ryan Jeffers. Also, a go away, they’ll only get better. Over- Adam Thielen, has just three catch- have to cancel the 2020 season, they key players like Mitch Garver, Jorge couple of relievers that the Twins all, this was a weird season for all of es but has amassed 51 yards, which were able to find a way to still play Polanco and Miguel Sano, who all signed, Caleb Theilbar and Jorge baseball and going back to a normal means he is getting 17 yards per catch. baseball by shortening the season to fell off from their 2019 performances. Alcala, played pretty well. 163-game season for baseball in 2021 He is clearly another receiver who can 60 games, playing without fans and These issues combined to Eventually, as the playoffs ar- should help teams that struggled this be trusted when in a tight position. introducing an extended playoffs. lead the Twins into two long losing rived, the Twins managed to turn season like the Twins. Ultimately, when it comes to the offense, Cousins just needs to work on his precision and has to find other ways Timberwolves struggle to find their identity to extend a play besides throwing into From athlete play to coaching strategies, the areas in which the team needs to improve next season are many a super tight spot and having the ball intercepted. Right now, the offense is By MAJAY MURPHY which was a disappointment. up on some plays and seemed the season that the coaches did not scoring an average of just 26 points a Quill staff writer One aspect that led to the scared to play against the other seem to know what to do in clutch game, which is six less than the aver- Timberwolves poor season was team. Clearly, we don’t have the moments and which players they age opponent scores. The Minnesota Timberwolves their defense. Although they have same Timberwolves team from should have out on the court. With the offense not scoring as ended the 2019-2020 season at some top players, they don’t seem the past when it comes to the of- The moral to the story is that many points as the defense lets in, it will 11th place in the Western Confer- to know how to use those players. fense, which contributed to the the Timberwolves need a new be really difficult for the team to stay ence. During the season, they lost The Wolves barely ran a 2-3 zone team’s losing record. coaching staff and new players. united with each other. If the defense to the Pelicans 123-114 and the and never realized that, if they ran A third aspect of concern this While the 2019-2020 season looked can’t give the offense good field posi- Celtics 115-102, but they also beat a 2-3 zone, it would have been an season was the coaching. While the like it could have been a fresh new tion, don’t expect the Vikings to score or the Magic 120-103 and the even- easier season for them. coaching was good at first, it start- start, it ended up bad yet again. By win. When it comes to the offense, look tual champions the Lakers 108-86. The second aspect that came ed getting bad toward the middle of working on the shortcomings of for the receiving core and Cook to be the While it was a good season for up short this year was the offense. the season. Despite the fact that the the defense and offense, and get- focus in the near future. They are trusted the team when they first started, The offense seemed to be on and team had new players coming in ting some better coaching, the team and can make a play when one is need- toward the middle and end of the off this season. On some nights, from the draft, the coaches did not chemistry may eventually improve. ed, even if Cousins can’t be counted on year, it got bad. Overall, their re- the starters played well, while seem to make good use of them. Let’s hope they figure out a way to to make the play each time. cord was 36 wins and 46 losses, on others, they seemed to give Time after time, it was clear later in make this happen next season.