Paul Revere Charter Middle School and Magnet Center Friday, February 19, 2021 Volume 65, Issue 3 Patriots Ponder Best Path Forward Still stuck at home and staring at screens, many are yearning for a safe return to Revere. By NICO TROEDSSON Coronavirus continues to take its toll on Los Angeles County. Just a few weeks ago, hospitals were at capacity. Am- bulances were lined up outside emergency rooms. And mortu- aries were backlogged with bod- ies. On top of all that, LAUSD announced extremely worrisome data from its COVID testing program. Approximately 1 in 3 students from low-income com- munities, who showed no symp- toms of the virus, tested positive for COVID-19. Students have been espe- cially affected by the lockdown both academically and socially. Just over a month ago, a strict campus closure terminated all on-campus programs including childcare, athletics and in-per- son tutoring. But with a recent downward trend in COVID cas- es and a loosening up of the lock- down, talk of reopening schools is on everyone’s lips again. Eighth-grader Mark Lewis, left, and Nolin, his seventh-grade brother, stare at their screens. Photo: Paula Lewis (continued on page 2)

Patriots tune in as Joe Biden is Counselor Chit Chats bring the Revere Represents: Principal runs The quarantine cannot lock down sworn in as president. Page 8 social back to school. Page 11 to raise funds for pit bulls. Page 12 the school’s sports stars. Page 32 February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 2

Schools: The Forgotten Child well-being. It helps us deal with stress, cre- safety standards,” Beutner says. That could ates healthy self-esteem, and allows us to create inequality in the safety of schools. Throughout the pandemic, Superinten- have fun which creates endorphins.” Superintendent Beutner also criticizes the dent Beutner expressed his frustration over Safe Schools for All plan for its new standard the inability to properly meet students’ educa- Is It Time to Implement on COVID case counts. Previously, Califor- tional and social needs in a safe, on-campus the Safe Schools for All Plan? nia guidelines suggested it would be safe to environment. As a result, Beutner joined up reopen schools if case counts were at or be- with the superintendents of the New York and Austin Beutner doesn’t think so. Gavin low 7 per 100,000 population. But the Safe Chicago school districts to ask for the fed- Newsom’s Safe Schools for All plan falls School for All plan lowered the standard to eral funds needed to reopen schools safely. short, according to the LAUSD Superinten- 28 per 100,000 population, which Beutner He requested an additional $2,000 for each dent. Beutner does not feel that a safe reopen- has difficulty accepting and questions the sci- student, totaling about $125 billion of federal ing is realistic due to the city’s high levels of entific reasoning behind it. money for the district. The funds would be COVID-19. He also believes that the state Finally, there is a funding issue. Beut- used to keep campuses sanitized, and provide needs to create clear standards for reopening ner believes that “community health needs COVID-19 testing, mental health support, all schools, and then open those campuses should be addressed with public health and a summer school program to fill in edu- that meet those standards. funds, not money which voters intended for cational gaps caused by distance learning. “Schools are the forgotten child,” Beut- ner claimed, referring to the fact that reopen- ing businesses and recreational entertainment was prioritized over education. Students have been hit hard by distance learning, with a 15% increase in Ds and Fs by high school students across the district. And the longer students are expected to continue with re- mote education, the more trouble they will have bringing their grades up. Many students are feeling frustrated by the lockdown. In a school-wide Zoom assem- bly on Thursday, February 11, eighth-grader Basel Thierry sent an urgent message to Re- vere’s administrators in the chat box: “We need to go back! It’s completely unaccept- able that we aren’t in school by now, we need to be taught. No excuses. Put our own needs before yours. You guys aren’t the ones need- ing education. I know it’s not your choice but you guys have more power than us. Please fight for us!” Revere history teacher Ms. Makhani wor- ries about the impact of lengthy school clo- sures on teachers and students alike. “Edu- cation is not the same when you cannot learn and teach in person,” she says, going on to When students left campus March 13, 2020, it was supposed to be for only two weeks. But explain that “middle schoolers need the per- now, it is almost twelve months later and there is still no return in sight. Photo: Nico Troedsson sonal connection of both their teachers and their peers. It really makes a difference if While Newsom’s Safe Schools for All students can see their teacher smile or move plan would provide $2 billion to safely re- K-12 education.” He goes on to say that Safe around in the classroom and likewise it is mo- open campuses by mid-February and in- Schools for All would use state funds that are tivating for teachers when they can see their cludes an increase in COVID-19 testing as meant for “‘instructional improvement and students’ expressions. It helps us understand well as a mask requirement for school staff accountability,’ including reducing class size; if students are confused, need extra help, or and students, Beut- providing supplies, are mastering the information.” She feels that ner says that is not equipment and oth- “motivation is decreasing,” and hopes for enough. The LAUSD A spring reopening is looking er services to ensure “students to participate and turn their camera Superintendent feels uncertain but an extended that students make on so their classmates and teachers can inter- that the Governor’s academic progress; act in some way.” plan doesn’t acknowl- school year is in the works. providing profession- School Counselor Ms. Evans is also con- edge the huge impact al development to cerned about students’ emotional well-being. COVID-19 has had staff to improve and She explains that on top of falling grades, on low income communities. “It leaves the increase the quality of classroom instruction; “distance learning is affecting students both definition of a ‘safe school environment’ and and paying teacher salaries and benefits.” socially and emotionally because they are the ‘standard for reopening classrooms’ up to Beutner sees this as a problem because using not able to interact with one another; and the individual discretion of 1,037 school dis- the funds for public health means money that interaction is a big component of positive tricts across the state, creating a patchwork of is taken away from the classroom. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 3

While the Revere campus remains shuttered, LAUSD’s COVID testing program continues to test its students and their families. In a recent announcement, LAUSD uncovered some alarming data on the number of positive cases among its student population. Photos: Nico Troedsson

To date, LAUSD has used its own funds Like Superintendent Beutner, the union What’s happening in other school to upgrade the air-filtration systems in more is also calling for more funding and for districts around the country? than 80 million square feet of buildings; re- “school staff required to work in person to configure classrooms, restrooms, halls, cafe- have access to vaccinations.” They believe According to the New York Times, New terias and other common areas to keep people that current “state funding will dispropor- York City’s “push to become the first big safely apart; and provide PPE and masks at tionately benefit white and wealthier com- school district in the country to reopen class- every school and in every classroom. munities.” rooms last fall” was a “risky experiment,” There are also ionized cleaning systems The union points to recent data showing but it has “also provided reasons for opti- on every campus and staff have been trained “a 35% increase in a rare pediatric inflamma- mism at the midpoint of the academic year. on health protocols and practices. Beutner tory syndrome linked to coronavirus, known In-school transmission of the coronavirus believes that once public health officials give as MIS-C, leading to more hospitalizations has been very low, and there has also been the signal, LAUSD is ready to go. in school-aged children” as yet another rea- broad agreement that children have benefited son to hold off on reopening. from being in classrooms.” However, there They also claim that “More than 65% of have been many “disruptions—especially The teachers union stands firm LAUSD parents surveyed said they do not when classrooms and school buildings are against reopening want to return to in-person classes because frequently closed because of virus cases.” In New Hampshire, Governor Gina Rai- of too-high infection rates.” mondo made it a priority to keep all of her In a statement released Feb. 16, United In a paper published July 2020, titled Teachers Los Angeles, the union that rep- state’s schools open, even though her state The Same Storm, but Different Boats: The “was the most COVID-infected region per resents Revere’s teachers, spoke out against Safe and Equitable Conditions for Start- capita in the country,” according to the New reopening. UTLA considers it reckless to ing LAUSD in 2020-2021, UTLA outlined York Times. The paper said that the effort re- open schools for in-person instruction while its conditions for reopening schools. Most sulted in “severely stressed” educators, high Los Angeles country remains in the purple of the conditions are focused on health and absenteeism, and the fact that “at times, it did tier. They believe that “doing so would al- safety standards, requirements for physical not even feel like school.” most certainly lead to an increase in infec- distancing, an emphasis on hygiene, and oth- In Chicago, the school district reached tions and school closures, creating even er health concerns. a deal with its teachers’ union earlier this more instability and frustration.” The paper ends with a call for federal month to reopen its elementary and middle “Resuming in-person instruction when support which includes additional funding schools. But this only came after a long bat- cases are so high and without proper health as well as Medicare for All. The union also tle between the city’s mayor and the teachers’ and safety protocols will result in a yo-yo asks for state and local support which in- union. “We would never have opened with- effect of closures, upending the very edu- cludes things like a wealth tax, a millionaire out mayoral control,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot cational stability that our students and com- tax, defunding the police and other political told the New York Times. The mayors of Los munities deserve,” UTLA President Cecily concerns not directly related to health or ed- Angeles and San Francisco do not have this Myart-Cruz said. ucation. type of power over school districts. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 4

Vaccines are available. Now what? teachers next in line to receive the vaccine. While the vaccine With the recent development of COVID would protect the teachers, stu- vaccines, LAUSD would like to see two dents would not have the same things happen: for teachers and staff to be immunity, and could take the vi- vaccinated as soon as possible, and for in- rus back home to their families. fection rates to drop. Barbara Ferrer, the Los In this way, children can become Angeles County Public Health Director, an- “superspreaders,” and infect a nounced that vaccines could be available for large number of people unknow- teachers as early as February. However, get- ingly. That’s why Beutner would ting all teachers and staff vaccinated would like to see COVID-19 vaccines take at least a couple of months. on the list of mandatory vaccina- On February 15, LAUSD Superintendent tions for all LAUSD school stu- Beutner expressed his frustration over the dents once it’s available to chil- availability of vaccines for teachers: “Making dren. He would like all students schools a priority also means vaccinations for to be vaccinated “by this time all who work in schools. California is provid- next year.” Families who are ing vaccinations for cannabis delivery drivers opposed to their children getting but not school bus drivers and teachers. How vaccinated would be given the does that make sense?” option to continue with distance To get Californians vaccinated more ef- learning. ficiently, Superintendent Beutner is pressing LAUSD’s first vaccination site for LAUSD campuses to be used as vaccine opened on Feb. 17 at the Roybal distribution centers. Beutner claims that lo- Learning Center. District offi- cal schools are more convenient than having cials announced plans to open a to drive to more distant locations, saying, second, larger vaccination cen- “There are an average of two Los Angeles ter at SoFi Stadium which could Unified schools every square mile–within vaccinate up to 10,000 people a an easy walk, bike ride or drive for millions day. The site would be mostly of people from San Fernando to San Pedro. focused on vaccinating teach- Unlike a stadium parking lot, school cam- ers and staff at both public and puses are built to care for large numbers of private school throughout the Arik Kraft, seen here assembling vaccination kits for a lo- people. We have restrooms and space for county. LAUSD nurses would cal clinic, supports the idea of mandatory COVID vaccines them to spread out so vaccine recipients can administer the vaccines along for all LAUSD students and staff. Photo: Akshay Sateeh be monitored for adverse reactions.” LAUSD with Anthem healthcare provid- and UTLA are currently discussing whether ers. Superintendent Beutner believes it would How do Patriots feel to have school nurses administer COVID-19 take less than 1% of available vaccine doses about the vaccine? vaccines to employees, if school campuses to vaccinate all 25,000 LAUSD employees. do become vaccination sites. LAUSD has But L.A. Public Health Director Barba- According to a poll conducted in the first nearly 600 nurses who could administer vac- ra Ferrer claims that the county hasn’t yet week of February, Patriots are evenly split on cines not only to district employees, but to made school employees eligible for vaccines the vaccine. Eighth grader Jaron Paris sup- the entire community. because there simply aren’t enough doses. ports the idea of mandatory vaccinations as New CDC Guidelines for K-12 school So for now, the district is only vaccinating a requirement for reopening schools. “I think were updated February 12 stating: “Access employees who are 65 or older and already the COVID vaccine should be mandatory for to vaccination should not be considered a qualify to get the vaccine. All educators will everyone if we’re going back to school,” he condition for reopening schools for in-person be part of the next group of essential workers says. “We have already reopened too quick- instruction.” Still, the CDC has voted to put eligible to get the vaccine starting around Mar. 1. ly in this pandemic, and we shouldn’t reopen until it’s absolutely safe.” Jaron would be willing to be vaccinated “as soon as there’s a safe vaccine for kids.” Sixth grader Leo Wolfe is less enthusi- How do you feel about astic about getting the shot, saying “I don’t think I would like it because personally I do getting the COVID not like getting shots.” However he agrees vaccine once it’s available with Jaron “that everyone should get the vac- cine before going back to school. The vac- to students/minors? cine should definitely be mandatory.” Eighth-grader Arik Kraft, recently vol- unteered with his family to assemble 500 Based on a poll conducted the week of Feb. 1, 2021 of 227 Patriots from all three grades. COVID-19 vaccine kits for a local clinic that Graphics: Google Forms. works with under-served communities. He was tasked with the delicate job of assem- bling syringes for his aunt who would then distribute the vaccines. Arik supports the idea February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 5 of mandatory vaccines for all LAUSD stu- the pandemic has brought into their homes and if not well...ten days won’t do much.” dents and staff “but only if it’s proven safe.” and our communities. Los Angeles Unified Seventh-grader Nurah Abokar also thinks He himself would be happy to get the vaccine is already planning how to provide these that “an extra ten days won’t make much of once the safety issue is resolved. services including expanded tutoring and a difference” while Emma Zarutsky, also in But not everyone is eager to see schools in-person academic and enrichment classes seventh grade, is more adamant: “As far as reopened just yet. Eighth-grader Elle Citron this summer.” an extended school year goes, I’m definitely believes “that the COVID vaccine will make Although the L.A. Times reported on not up for it. That’s ten more days of stress everyone feel a lot more comfortable about February 1st that Beutner’s plans are “driv- that aren’t really going to improve learning.” reopening.” But she doesn’t necessarily feel ing the district toward a mandatory summer Katie Jeffers, another seventh-grader, is hes- that the vaccine should be mandatory, stating, session,” the superintendent has not men- itant about cutting summer break. “Summer “Teachers and staff who have a medical need tioned mandatory summer school in his re- is way too important to be taken away and or who are willing to get the vaccine should cent weekly updates. It is possible that only replaced with school,” she says. get it but no one should not be forced into it.” those students with failing grades will be ex- Seventh-grader Kai Rifkin worries about Elle is worried about the side effects of the pected to attend summer school. During win- the amount of screen time students have al- vaccine, stating, “Personally, I’m not com- ter break, students who received an F in any ready had, saying: “We’re on screens seven fortable getting the hours a day! Screen vaccine because at time can give many stu- a young age I don’t dents headaches. Not know how my body only that, teachers also would react to it or assign hours of home- whether it will be work and make us study able to fight it off.” for tests. We are doing She thinks it’s more is more than enough. important to be cau- They have to let us live tious than to reopen our lives too.” Mean- too quickly, ex- while, eighth-graders plaining, “Califor- Gabr Traum and Ki- nia is just starting arash Vazirnezami be- to lower numbers lieve that “extra school and I fear open- should only be for those ing schools would Because of an alarming drop in academic performance resulting from months of distance who don’t have a pass- bring them up again. learning, LAUSD is considering extending the 2021-2022 school year. Photo: Nico Troedsson ing grade.” I don’t think Califor- Other students nia would want to be in the position we were of their classes were given until January 29 to were outraged by the idea. “Everybody is in last time where things started to open up complete enough missing work to achieve a surviving a global pandemic and the reward and case numbers skyrocketed.” passing grade, and were expected to check in is more school? I just don’t think that is Seventh-grader Aria Kamei-Oser is also with teachers at least once a week over winter fair,” said seventh-grader Tyler Harper. Sev- feeling wary. “I am not entirely sure that break for help. enth-grader Eli Konecke questioned the logic I am willing to get the vaccine,” she says. Mr. Iannucci explains that “as of today, behind the initiative, saying: “Why do they “It’s newly made and who knows if it may there are no plans by the District to provide think that just because they are lengthening cause side effects that we don’t know about. mandatory summer school. There will be in- the school year, kids with failing grades will I would like to wait a little while until there tervention and enrichment classes offered but magically start paying attention? Also, the is more information on the vaccine’s success. to my understanding there will be no manda- kids with great grades will be penalized for At the same time, I think California should tory sessions. As for the additional ten days nothing,” wait until everyone is vaccinated because in for next school year the Board of Education For eighth-grader Sherwin Hazany, “ex- my opinion it is still dangerous to go back to is still looking into that possibility.” tra school hours is unfair to students who school all of a sudden. Since Paul Revere is a The school has, in fact, emailed an an- have been working hard to pass 8th grade huge school, if one person gets it, then anoth- nouncement outlining two options for the and get into high school, and LAUSD’s plans er will, and it’ll be like a domino effect.” 2021-2022 school year. Families have been to make us go through all that stress again,” asked whether they would prefer two fewer feels like a punishment. Can extra school days make up weeks of summer vacation or to split those As state and district leaders try to better for lost education? two weeks between summer and winter understand the virus and its vaccine, the pos- breaks. There is no option to select “none of sibility of getting back on campus in the near As part of its discussions around reopen- the above,” which suggests an additional ten future looks uncertain. Superintendent Beut- ing schools, LAUSD is also considering days of school has already been decided. ner is wary of a spring reopening, stating, adding an extra ten days of learning to the Many Patriots are scratching their heads “It’s clear we’re a long way from reopening 2021-2022 school calendar. The hope behind at the news of an extended school year. schools with the virus this high.” However, the extended school year is to address some Eighth-grader Maddox Walker says, “I President Biden has declared school reopen- of the learning losses students suffered have don’t know how helpful that would be. We ing a national emergency. His administration after nearly a year of distance learning. might only learn a small amount from that is willing to provide the federal funding nec- Last month, Superintendent Austin Beut- extra ten days.” Alexi Baski, who is also an essary to get most K-12 schools open within ner said, “In addition to preparing to re- eighth-grader, agrees. “An extra ten days of his first 100 days, which would be sometime turn students safely to their classrooms, all school just seems pointless. Not much can between now and April. That, together with schools and all students will need additional be accomplished in ten days and since this the new COVID-19 vaccines and a low- time at school to recover lost learning oppor- would take place next year at that point I er number of new cases, may mean there is tunities and deal with the anxiety and trauma would assume we have made a full recovery, some small bit of hope for students after all. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 6 Celebrating History in the Making

she said, “by discounting ourselves early on. Throughout February, Patriots Even if something seems out of reach, you need to go for it anyway and see what hap- are marking Black History pens. You might be the perfect fit.” Month by studying the lives Mr. Flowers added, “You have to get comfortable being uncomfortable.” of important change makers. Ms. Lutz responded, “Yes! That’s when By TAMARA GEAR real change happens. I had to learn not to be intimidated by people who don’t look like Who is Phillis Wheatley? That was the me.” She also stressed the importance of ed- question Revere’s Black Student Union ucation. “No one can take your degrees away asked as it launched its annual observance of from you,” she declared. Black History Month. This week BSU did a Jeopardy game on Wheatley was the first African-American Wednesday during lunch. Also not only has author of a published book of poetry. Born the BSU club been hosting a bunch of events, in West Africa and transported to Boston, she but teachers have also been planning some was enslaved at a young age to the Wheatley activities of their own. family. Learning about her remarkable life Mr. Fulling placed his eighth-grade history story was just just the first of many activities students in breakout rooms to list African Amer- planned to celebrate the lives of Black barrier icans who have a difference in the world. He breakers past and present. also gave his class an extra credit assignment On the first week of this month, the BSU to further explore the contributions made by club also spotlighted Kathryn Finney, who these notable history makers. is the founder and CEO of Digitalundivided. In his eighth-grade English class, Mr. Digitalundivided is a social enterprise that Slavin read a short paper on the women who helps Black and Latinx women founders on worked at NASA to get the first American to their journey through the startup pipeline. the moon. He also assigned his eighth grad- On the second week, the BSU club spot- ers a few questions on them. lighted Gerrett Morgan who invented the Ms. Evans (top left) invited Peyton Watley to Meanwhile, Ms. Makhani’s eighth-grad- three-position traffic signal in 1923. talk about her experiences at Spelman College, ers are making Google Jamboards, which The BSU did more than share awareness while Kyle Small (below left) was invited by are digital posters, featuring members of the of noteworthy history makers. On Feb. 4 Mr. Flowers to talk about Hampton University. Black community who have made a positive the club hosted a “Family Kahoot!” during difference in the world. lunch. Students were encouraged to bring leges and Universities, also known as HB- Isabella Tavakoli chose former FLOTUS along a parent or guardian or older sibling to CUs. Michelle Obama. “She is one of the main play together with them over Zoom. In another event, the BSU showed an ep- reasons I am a feminist,” Isabella said. “She “The meeting went well,” reported Ms. isode of “The Proud Family” last Friday at proves every day that being different does On the 18th and 19th there were Evans. “Mr. Flowers and I introduced our- lunch. This ground-breaking animated series not make you any less great.” career speaker days where speakers selves to those who weren’t BSU members, ran on the Disney Channel from 2001-2005 Many of Mr. Wechsler’s seventh-grade came in to a zoom meeting during and then we did our usual check-ins with and was especially noteworthy because it English students wrote poems about nota- lunch to talk about their careers the students. They have to type a number in centered around an African American family. ble African Americans whose lives continue and give advice. The first career the chat from 1-10 to describe how they Career days were held at lunch on Feb. to inspire others. Lucie Brazier wrote about speaker was Tola Lutz who is a are doing. They put a 10 if they are feeling 18 and 19. Tola Lutz, an executive at a cy- Misty Copeland, the first African American Senior Strategy and Operations amazing.” ber security firm, woman to be promoted to prin- Manager at a technology firm that She continued, “Then encouraged Pa- cipal dancer in ABT’s 75-year specializes in cyber security. we acknowledged the family triots “to choose history: For this great Black member they brought to the careers and paths dancer,/Trying hard’s the an- meeting since it was ‘Family that will bring swer./With her magical moves,/ Kahoot.’ Then we started and joy and lead you She prances in dance shoes. the students did a good job an- into the future.” Coming up, Dr. Jewell swering the questions correct- She talked about Parker Rhodes, the author of ly.” The winners were Brook- how her father several novels, will be appear- lyn Walker, Jason Dovine and came to America ing on Zoom with Patriots on Soleil Shepard, so they will be from Nigeria and Thursday, Feb. 25, during lunch. receiving a gift card. had to work hard Her visit is being arranged by Then on Feb. 10 and 11, to succeed. He Ms. Gualano, Revere’s teach- the Black Student Union in- taught his daugh- er librarian, and the BSU. vited speakers to come to talk Phillis Wheatley wrote ter to never give Jewell Parker Rhodes will The author will talking about about their experiences attend- poetry while enslaved in up. “Sometimes talk about her books on her books, including “Black ing Historically Black Col- Boston. Drawing: Britannica we self-reject,” Feb. 25. during lunch. Brother.” February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 7 Auction Committee Aims for a Banner Year By NURAH ABOKAR Ms. Natella reported that the on- line format gives more people a After months of planning, chance to participate. “Revere this year’s Annual PRIDE Auc- alumni are also being invited tion is almost here. It will be held this year, and so far a bunch free over Zoom tomorrow night, have RSVP’d.” She said that Saturday, Feb. 20, from 7:30- six teachers will be assigned to 9:00 p.m. VIP Zoom classes breakout rooms to share their for purchase will be held before programs with auction guests. the main auction from 6:30- There are also VIP packages be- 7:30 p.m. ing offered with lots of extras. The parents organizing the “There will be a magician from event sent out a message saying the Magic Castle, a mixologist, that they have “created a night and a variety of tasty gourmet to bring our Revere community meals being delivered to spon- together to share in a fun-filled sors’ homes,” she said. evening celebrating, honoring Auction co-chairs Jamee Na- and giving back to the Paul Re- tella and Paula Lewis sent out the vere community including our The auction banner hangs on the fence facing Sunset. Photo: Jame Natella following message: “Please tune- administrators, staff, teachers in with your energy, passion, and and students. All families and for Revere in the many days be- not the first time someone in the enthusiasm for our school. We friends are invited to attend.” fore the auction. neighborhood took down a sign know it’s not the same as being This year’s event will be in- The auction has been in like that. “I took it to PRIDE in person but trust us, we prom- spired by the ’80s. Some promo- the planning stages for many and they said it’s an ongoing ise to make this a fun, lively, en- tional messages featured scenes months. On Jan. 4, auction co- occurrence,” Ms. Natella said. gaging event. The good news is from famous ’80s movies like chair Jamee Natella put up three “We are working closely with a a virtual auction allows a greater “The Breakfast Club.” promotional banners on campus community group to solve this audience participation. Thus, it First there will be a “silent” fences, two on Allenford and one problem. This is private prop- will be a free event for the entire auction with a great amount of facing Sunset Blvd. She took erty we’re talking about and we Paul Revere Community. This items that people can bid on. pictures to show members at the have a right to promote school will allow for participation from Then, after that there will be committee meeting the next day. events. The organization we’re the entire community especially “live” auction items that will be But before she knew it, she got a working with is not sure who did for those who haven’t been able auctioned off in the traditional distressing call from an auction it this time, but they did assure to attend in the past because they dramatic way to cause suspense. committee member informing us it’s not the neighbor who took live too far away. We believe this The winning raffle tickets will her that the Sunset sign was no down one of Mr. Foxson’s signs is a great opportunity to build a be announced soon after. The longer there. She did some dig- a while back.” community and make an inclu- tickets were used to raise money ging and discovered that this was On a more positive note, sive event for all. For we need each other more than ever.” The ’80s-themed auction will raise funds for improve- ments and needed renovations to Revere’s library, farm, au- ditorium and learning garden. With the auction Revere hopes to raise money for a new roof for the goats’ pen, repairs to the farm cultivator, two blowers and bat- teries, and fifteen new shovels. This will help Revere maintain its farm, a place for students to expand the range of their science and earth studies. Funds from the auction will also go into get- ting a new stage floor and audi- ence seating for the auditorium. Additionally the money will be used for a mural in the learning garden and new books, chairs, carpet, and paint for the library. More details can be found at paulreverems.com. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 8

Seventh-grader Kai Rifkin watches President Joseph Biden deliver his inaugural address. An Inauguration to Remember Following a historic election, Patriots witness the swearing-in of America’s new administration. vary from how he would solve a certain first National Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda By PARSA IMANKHAN problem to what his stance was on a topic. Gorman, read her inaugural poem. As a fol- Although the country had mixed opin- After we wrote for five minutes he called on low-up, he asked his students to type in the ions over whether the correct person for the people to pretend to be Joe Biden and answer Zoom chat a part of the poem that stood out job was chosen, Jan. 20, 2021 marked the the questions asked by people randomly.” to them. end of one era and the start of a new one, as Mr. Roig’s seventh-graders watched the Mr. Slavin’s eighth-graders also studied Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States. From the inauguration of the first female vice president to a departing president who denied he lost the election, this is a day that, depending on how the Biden administration deals with the country’s current problems, will either be one of the best or worst days in American history. There was truly no short- age of inaugural-related activities at Revere on the days surrounding the event. Several teachers at Revere incorporated the inauguration into their classes. In Mr. Schwartz’s English class, students watched the new president’s inauguration speech. Mr. Schwartz also opened the chat in the Zoom call, allowing his students to share their thoughts on the speech. “We also wrote a journal entry about what question would we ask Joe Biden at his first press conference,” said Mason Wiener. “These question could Mr. Slavin teaches his English class about Inaugural poet Amanda Gorman. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 9

From their homes, seventh-graders Max Dorband and Sage Denham watch newly-inaugurated Joe Biden give his first speech as 46th President. her poem, “The Hill We Climb,” which was “After watching several videos of Kamala make a judgment about her.” full of literary touches on every line. Arik Harris’s speeches, I was filled with hope Some of Revere’s P.E. teachers also Kraft reported, “We listened to a short NPR and felt excited to spend the next four years worked the special day into their lesson. audio which was an interview of Amanda (hopefully even eight) with Joe Biden and “During first period, Mr. Foxson was having Gorman where she spoke about herself and Kamala Harris as my president and vice trouble connecting, so Mr. Amos chose to read a bit of her poem. Our assignment was president. It’s incredible how she is the first ask our classes trivia questions about current to write three things we learned, two inter- woman vice president. I have hope that she and historical events,” said eighth-grader esting facts, and one question we have.” will do many great things.” Lily Williamson. “He made it fun and engag- Seventh-grade history teacher Mr. Eighth-grader Nico Troedsson had a ing by offering Super Stars to the first stu- Schepps showed his period 3 class a CNN slightly different opinion, saying, “I do not dent to submit the correct answer. He asked video which included the inauguration. care about the race, ethnicity or gender of about where the VP lived, where MLK gave “Then he showed us a bunch of things that a president or vice president. I only care his “I Have A Dream Speech,” and a ques- Joe Biden said he’s planing to do while he if they are able to pull off their job in a tion about Rosa Parks.” is president,” said Tamara Geer. “We then satisfactory way. So, I do not have any spe- Once Mr. Foxson joined the Zoom, it got to share and talk about what our favorite cial feelings about Kamala yet, since I need was time to begin his inaugural P.E. class of thing was, such as Biden’s promise to rejoin to see if she is a good leader before I can the Biden era. the Paris Climate Agreement.” Ms. Zelsdorf gave her students the op- tion to leave class entirely on Inauguration SIXTH-GRADERS TALK ABOUT THE NEW ADMINISTRATION Day, in order for them to watch the historic “I’m happy about “I wonder what the event with their families. Kamala Harris new president will Patriots have high hopes for the new becoming the do if his plan to administration. Eighth-grader Shane Mas- vice president conquer COVID terson said, “I have high hopes for President because it shows fails. If vaccines Biden’s administration. His commitment to that America is aren’t effective vaccinate 100 million people is something finally realizing enough, I wonder that I hope is achieved. I hope the President that gender if he has any other can bring the economy back and rebuild in- doesn’t matter.” ideas for ending frastructure. I hope the President can fulfill —Skyler Bral the pandemic.” his promise to unite America again.” —Hendrix Hughes Eighth-grader Giada Musumeci said, “My hope is that the administration will be more responsible and better leaders “I hope the new “I am happy for for the country. I hope to see them handle administraton Kamala Harris COVID-19 in a smart way. Hopefully, the will balance their because she is the new administration will unite the country funds better so first woman ever and defeat the coronavirus. I hope that they that they do not to become the make the country whole again, instead of spend money on vice president Americans rioting and fighting one another.” useless things and women With Vice President Kamala Harris tak- instead of goals deserve to have ing office, history was made as the first Afri- like fighting the same rights can-American, Asian-American and female climate change.' that men have.” vice president was inaugurated. —Eli Kagan —Julia Jawor Seventh grader Samantha Beckey said, February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 10 A Fresh Batch of Treats From Leadership Mr. Bilek’s student council team hosts a series of lunchtime events that appeal to all the senses. By AVERY ZEMLAK Sample questions included: “What is the movie that Lil Hud- This year, even though al- most everything looks different dy will be starring in called?” since it’s virtual, Mr. Bilek’s (Downfalls High). “Who is Ad- leadership class made sure one dison Rae dating?” (Bryce Hall) . thing remained the same: Valen- Dylan and Rojin are now tine’s grams! creating more fun and interac- “Leadership came up with tive after-school activities called an innovative way to spread the “Small Student Support Events” Valentine’s Day love this year once every other Friday. The even if we are all stuck at home,” goal with these events, accord- said President Hailey Sugarman. ing to Dylan, is that “there’s not “For the first year ever, grams much of a social aspect with vir- were free, online, but just as fun tual learning so we are trying to as ever!” Just in time for Valen- bring that back.” tine’s Day, many students and In other Leadership news, teachers found heartfelt messag- eight-grader Sam Sonnett is cur- rently leading a group of other es in their email inboxes. On Feb. 12, Sophia Winston and Ava Loos made some Valentine’s candy. Addtionally, Leadership held Leadership students with a mis- a candy making class on Valen- sion to make mental health re- tine’s Day for Patriots to partic- sources more accessible. Sam’s ipate in. In the days leading up goal is to make a section of the the the Feb. 12 event, Mr. Ian- school website have phone num- nucci sent out a Schoology mes- bers to teen hotlines and other sage with a list of ingredients links as a part of working on needed to make the Valentine’s ways to maximize student sup- candy. Many students attended port throughout the school. and had fun crafting their own “We just want students to confections. have a spot where they can find This was the latest in a series resources that can help them of events that the student council with however they may be strug- has sponsored to maintain school gling,” said Sam. spirit during a very unusual year. On a lighter note, Mr. Bilek’s On Jan. 29, Leadership students Zoom screen has been crowded Dylan Johnson and Rojin Shakib lately with some special guest led students through a fast-paced stars: Harry Styles and Baby game of Kahoot based on popu- Yoda. “Two Ghosts” they do lar culture personalities. seem like.

On Jan. 29, Dylan Johnson and Rojin Shakib hosted a game of Kahoot! The answer to the above question: Charli D’Amelio is the most-followed. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 11

App Party Never Have I Ever Dance Party

Bring Your Pet to Zoom

Origami Kahoot!

Getting Together, While Staying Apart the Origami Chit Chat, students made and on a separate device. At the Meditation ses- Revere's three counselors showed off their folded-paper creations. At sion, everyone had a chance to calm down have started a Zoom on many the Dance Party, Patriots danced to music and relax over Zoom with the counselors. In from “DJ Flo” (AKA Mr. Flowers). At the the "Would You Rather..." Chit Chat, Patriots Tuesdays to play fun games Strange Food session, Patriots showed weird answered two-sided questions. Finally, in the or just to talk to each other. snack combinations they’ve tried or like. At Peer-2-Peer Real Talk, Patriots were able to the App Party, Patriots shared apps on their talk candidly to each other over Zoom. By ARIK KRAFT phone that they like and which one they Mr. Flowers said, “I think my favor- couldn't live without. At the "Be Proactive" ite Chit Chat has to be the ‘Bring Your Pet’ Earlier this year, Ms. Evans was looking Chit Chat, the counselors gave tips on how event. It was nice to see how excited the stu- for ways to stay close to the students she has to be a better student. At the Kahoot! Chit dents and counselors were introducing their been guiding through middle school. “The Chat, Patriots were able to play the game pets to the group.” counseling team and I wanted an opportunity According to Ms. Evans, “The most at- for students and counselors to stay connect- tended Chit Chat was either the 'Would You ed. We came up with a special plan to play Rather...' game or our Kahoot! challenge.” fun games and have interesting discussions Mr. Flowers added, “I think the Chit Chat with one another. I think it is really import- where we introduced our strange food com- ant during this time since we are not together. binations was a hit. I shared my popcorn and Plus, I miss my students!” Ms. Evans said. Sour Patch Kids combo. If you haven't tried This year, the Revere counselors started it, you definitely should!” the “Counselor Chit Chat” which is a Zoom There are usually 20-30 people that attend held on Tuesdays during Patriots' free adviso- the chit chats which will all continue to have ry period where they can talk and play games different themes—"the crazier the better," ac- with their counselors and peers. So far there cording to Mr. Flowers. have been 11 Chit Chats, with more to come. Ms. Evans said, “We plan to keep doing In the "Bring Your Pet to Zoom" Chit- the Chit Chats on select Tuesdays during Chat, Patriots showed off their four legged Mr. Amos takes a big bite into a peanut butter the Homeroom periods. We hope to see friends to the counselors and students. In sandwich with Doritos in it. Screenshot: Arik Kraft you there!” February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 12

volunteer to work at the Mr. Iannucci raises awareness shelter and clean the ken- about the pitbull breed and nels out, walk the dogs, and to donate dog items their value as household pets. like food, toys, beds and By CONNER PETOYAN blankets. “Even though it is a small organization, Every year in Spain, people gather to cel- Angel City Pit Bulls is ea- ebrate the “running of the bulls.” This year, ger to reach new heights Mr. Iannucci will be sticking closer to home for pit bulls,” Mr. Ian- as he goes on a different type of run—not with nucci says. “My goal for a bunch of bulls chasing after him but for a each marathon is to do- different breed of bulls—pit bulls to be exact. nate $1,000. Angel City Mr. Iannucci will be running the L.A. Pit Bulls has a goal of Half Marathon Charity Challenge on May 23 $150,000. There are over to raise funds for Angel City Pit Bulls, a char- 90 runners for the mara- ity that he and his wife have been involved thon so far.” with for the last five years. Mr. Iannucci has been The charity was founded in 2010 to ad- working hard in advance dress the overpopulation and high euthanasia of the event. “I am excit- rate of pitbull terrier dogs in L.A. shelters. ed,” he says. “It is on May People can support ACPB to foster dogs, 23, and until then, I will train my heart out for the amazing breed. I run ear- ly in the morning around 4:30 to prepare. I am building my mileage ev- ery week. Sundays are my long runs. Currently, I am running 8 miles and work- ing to get 10 shortly.” He has run the half marathon for the last three years and his best time is 2:26:32. The cause that Re- “Who wants a treat?” Mr. Iannucci keeps his dogs in suspense. vere’s principal is run- ning to support is very dear to his family’s provide them with a safe, warm, loving home heart. “We have had dogs our whole life,” while ACPB finds them their forever home he began. “About five years ago, one of our has added so much to our family,” he says. dogs passed away from “Unfortunately back in cancer. At the same time, Those interested in donating the 1980s, pit bulls were our son found a pit bull can visit: demonized by popular puppy while he was away culture. If you were to at college. We offered to https://donate.angelcitypits. study the history of these take him in. When we ar- org/fundraiser/3088013 dogs you would learn that rived at his college, he had they are the dog of Ameri- given the puppy to a res- ca. They moved west with cue which convinced us to take another pit the pioneers and were widely accepted and bull. That began our involvement and love owned. And it has only been in the last 40 of this amazing breed of dog. Most dogs that years that they were seen as a threat to hu- are identified as pit bulls are actually mixed mans,” Mr. Iannucci says. breed dogs. All our Pit Bulls are 3-4 mixed “This year has been very challenging for breeds in,” he explained. everyone, but bringing in dogs who need our “My family and I have been involved love allowed us to channel positive energy to with ACPB for four years. Nathaniel, our animals who need our support, making things first foster, ended up becoming a permanent less dark. Please help me give Angel City Pit Mr. Iannucci runs the member of our family. My wife and I are cur- Bulls the means they need to continue their 2020 L.A. Marathon. rently fostering two puppies through ACPB. mission of love. Please give what you can, Being able to bring dogs into our home and since no donation is ever too big or too small. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 13

Flying during the pandemic? One Town Crier writer reports that it really isn’t that plane easy.

By GRANT COELEN hardly any people in the security line. Before gate, and made sure to sit three seats away quarantine, I never saw anyone wearing from other people in the waiting area. My Dreaming of hitting the slopes this masks at the airport, even though airports mom grabbed a hand sanitizer from her spring break? Longing to meet your newborn are a hotspot for spreading viruses. Now, purse and sprayed it on our hands before cousin in Colorado? With the ongoing with COVID-19 around, people are required boarding the plane. COVID-19 pandemic, many families have to wear masks inside the airport and on the People were crammed together on the been wondering if and when it will be safe plane at all times, except when they are eat- gangway. Once aboard, a flight attendant to travel again. Everyone is missing their ing or drinking. However, that provides a big greeted me and offered me a wipe. I took family members that live across the country opportunity for this coronavirus to escape. it and sat down in my assigned seat. I and are craving a change of scenery. There When we flew to San Francisco, signs noticed that many people didn’t take the are many factors to take into consideration outside LAX made it clear that there was wipes that they were offered, which was when making this tough travel decision. no entry without a mask. My dad was super pretty strange considering we are in the In the first week of November, I traveled stressed that we were arriving at the airport middle of a pandemic. I wiped down my with my mom and my brother, Finn, to San only an hour before our flight was sched- surroundings and everything I would Francisco to celebrate my aunt’s 50th birth- uled to take off. However, once we stepped eventually touch so I could get rid of any day with my cousins. Two weeks later, my inside, it became clear that it would be germs that may have set up camp on those mom and brother, Finn, flew to Phoenix. The smooth sailing (or should I say flying) ahead. surfaces from earlier flights. two experiences were as different as night We were pleasantly surprised to see so few The plane took off and I was really and day. people around. The security line looked like excited to explore San Francisco! The Normally the LAX airport is insanely the hollow hallways of Paul Revere this man that sat behind me had a mask but crowded, but due to the coronavirus restric- year. A security officer asked my mom to kept taking it off. Multiple flight atten- tions in Los Angeles, the amount of people take off her mask to see if the photo on her dants went over to the man and asked him traveling had greatly decreased. There were ID matched her face. We flew straight to the politely to put his mask back on. The man did as he was asked, but then when the flight attendants left, he just took the mask right off again. This caused me and every- body else on the plane anxiety, but since the plane was already in the air, there was nothing anybody could do about it. The flight attendants even offered him a more comfortable mask, but the man refused. After an hour had flown by, we finally landed. The captain instructed everyone to not leave their seats until the people in front of them had gotten their luggage from the upper compartments and had safely exited the plane. This made it way less crowded when trying to deplane. Thankfully, the mask-less man who sat behind me got confronted by an airline representative and banned from flying on that airline. Just like in L.A., there were very few people without masks, but my mom, my brother and I made sure to avoid them. A week later, my brother and mom took a trip to Arizona to visit a friend for their birthday. My brother, sixth-grader Finn Coelen, said, “I came into this trip to Arizona feeling very comfortable after flying to San Francisco. I thought that there would be hardly any people in sight at the Arizona airport, just like in San Francisco and Los Angeles. I was shocked to see that the Arizona airport was packed February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 14 by three flight attendants and a pilot eating was that in The States it’s six feet, mask-less.” In my opinion, this sets a poor whereas in Europe it’s only three.” example of safe behavior during the middle Sophia Aldana, also in seventh of a pandemic. Restaurants that remain open grade, traveled to Mexico over win- could at least limit diners to a back area that ter break. “To get to where we were is properly distanced from other travelers. headed we had to go on two planes Outside the Phoenix airport, travelers but we took lots of precaution. We were on top of one another, as they waited in wore face masks and face shields huge taxi and shuttle lines. Finn added that and sanitized our hands frequently. this Arizona airport was just as bad for his We made sure we were negative for return flight. “There really was no way to COVID by getting tested before and socially distance once we made it to our ter- after our trip. (Thankfully we tested minal before flying back home. There were negative both times). In the photo no seats available to sit in,” Finn concluded. you can see that I am separated with Based on my research and anecdotes from my family (I think they separated multiple students at Paul Revere, I found out everyone on the plane by family or that COVID-19 restrictions vary greatly by small groups). The airports seemed state and country. This is key information to be taking extreme precaution to investigate and take into consideration with passengers and everyone was before plunging into pandemic travel. wearing masks. We went to Mexico Seventh grader Ingrid Knap, who recently and stayed a few days in a cabin returned from Norway, reported, “Everyone while still taking precaution and was required to wear a mask at all times and wearing masks when around others. maintain distance, but something interesting I enjoyed my winter break because I was able to visit my family and reconnect with family members I hadn’t seen in a long time while staying Seventh-grader safe in this pandemic,” Sofia Sofia Aldana flew remarked upon her return. to Mexico during Eighth-grader Charlie winter break. Speiser, who took a trip to Hawaii, said, “Once in Hawaii, we had to go through their Research has shown that virus transmission COVID questionnaires and screeners. through airplanes is relatively low, although Flying home was the same as getting it’s higher if you’re sitting close to an infect- there, except for no questionnaires ed passenger. or screeners at LAX when I landed, “For Delta, the middle-seat block isn’t so Hawaii was definitely more strict about safety, but a way to give customers about COVID than California.” Also, ‘peace of mind’ with a little more space Hawaii requires a negative test upon onboard,” said Delta’s chief customer expe- entry or a mandatory fourteen day rience officer to theL.A. Times. So far, flyers quarantine upon arrival. have flocked to lower cost airlines with With such varying levels of middle seats occupied, but Delta believes COVID controls, it’s helpful know- that showing passengers that they care about ing whether you’re headed to an their safety will pay off in the long run. airport where COVID is bouncing What I learned from this travel experi- around like it’s on a trampoline, or ence is that although I can control my own one where it’s still finding its way to actions and take safety precautions, I can’t the Big Leagues. control other people’s behaviors, which This pandemic hasn’t just affected could potentially lead to someone getting potential travelers, but also the severely sick. airlines, who are competing to make If you travel, stay up to date and more money than their rivals. Air- informed on the COVID situation where lines are constantly trying to come you’re headed and where you’re coming up with new ideas to attract people. from. Currently, the CDC (Center of Disease For example, Delta has been closing Control) requires all passengers entering off middle seats to make it more safe the U.S., including U.S. citizens, to present for passengers to travel, and plans to a negative COVID test before entering this continue this through April. How- country. Be prepared to see people without ever, this is lowering the amount of masks or wearing them improperly, people in Seventh-grader money they are earning because there Ingrid Knap flew large groups, people coughing and sneezing, are fewer seats for people to buy, and know to stay away from those people. to Norway over so they have to keep prices higher. the holidays. Do your part and be smart! ““

February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 15

Even during a pandemic, Patriots still find ways to get out of the house. Layout by AMANDA WEXLER

Eighth-grader Kate Raymond and her family visited Big Bear for a week, where they were Seventh-grader Christian Riberi spent able to enjoy bright blue, sunny skies and a his winter break skiing in the Mountains wealth of glistening snow. Kate and her sister of Breckinridge, Colorado for a week. He Emma enjoyed a variety of winter activities Eighth-grader Hailey Sugarman went skiing described his skiing experience as, “Skiing such as skiing and tubing. “There weren’t down the snowy mountains of Deer Valley in a winter wonderland.” Chris and his family any mandatory rules for social distancing on with her family. Being one of the top six ski kept the mandatory distance away from oth- the slopes, but we kept a big distance from resorts in America, it makes for a pretty nice ers while going down mountains full of snow. other people,” Kate said. “Everyone was getaway in the midst of all the boredom. As They wore face masks and ski masks. While supposed to keep their masks on, which we far as staying safe goes she said, “We wore at the airport, the family wore face masks did, but a lot of other people didn’t follow the KN95 masks everywhere we went. The skiing and gloves to keep safe. During their stay in rules, which was disappointing.” Because of was at half capacity and socially distant, and Colorado, they all did ice skating and escape that, Kate and her family kept to themselves we got tested for COVID when we left on our rooms as well. as much as possible. trip, and when we got home.”

Seventh-grader Samantha Beckey and her family went to Aspen, Colorado for seven Seventh-graders Grant and Will Coelen and Eighth-grader Enzo Choi spent his winter days. “We stayed in a house with my mom’s their cousin traveled to Lake Arrowhead, break snowboarding with his dad in Big Bear. friend’s family,” she said. “We made sure we where they went sledding and had many He drove there, and stayed COVID safe by were safe by wearing masks and were social snowball fights. “We stayed far away from sitting on ski lifts away from other people. distancing, after taking several COVID tests of other people when we went sledding,” Grant He said of his experience, “I was super course. We went skiing on the coldest day. I said. “It was fun playing in the snow since stoked to learn a couple of new tricks and had fun, but next time I want to try snowboard- you don’t get snow that often in California,” still be able to go to the mountains and shred ing. It was freezing cold and I was wearing Will added. even with this pandemic.” three layers of clothes and I was still cold!” February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 16

Marissa Aniel and her family traveled to Maui, Hawaii and went on hikes, snorkeled, and relaxed. She loved exploring the beautiful scenery and seeing an abundance of vivid flowers. In this picture, Marissa was feeding Eighth-grader Arik Kraft went to the Grand Canyon over break where he went on many hikes the ducks at the hotel. Marissa said she and with his family and rode on a donkey. Arik said, “To stay safe we wore masks whenever we her family “were tested both before and after were outside or near people.” traveling to Maui.”

Sixth-grader Brooke Abraham went to the beach in Malibu with her family quite fre- quently. She said, “It was the perfect place to go because there were barely any people there, so we stayed safe and had fun!” She had a great time swimming, watching the Seventh-grader Nika Khalili went to Sedona, Arizona where she did a lot of active things such sunset over the water, and swinging on the as hiking and sight seeing. She also learned a lot about the red rock city. Nika said, “It was swing under a dock. very fun because I liked to explore the beautiful areas of Sedona and the nature there.” February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 17

Over winter break, eighth-grader Giada Musu- meci stayed home because of COVID. During that time, she practiced her baking skills by making chocolate chip waffles and cookies. Eighth-grader Mateo Neandross went dirt biking across his family’s farm in Ojai, California. He Almost every week she made a batch of and his family go there on weekends and ride their dirtbikes and Polaris off-roading car together. each. The waffles were almost always baked to perfection while when she ate the cookies, they melted in her mouth. “Baking them helped me pass time since I had nothing to do while staying at home,” she said.

Seventh-grader Mason Wiener said, “Due to the amount of COVID cases in L.A,. my family decided to stay at home for winter break. We used it as more of a time to recharge our batteries from the last semester so I watched a lot of shows over that time. In an attempt Seventh-grader Connor Petoyan found ways to not be on screens that much I set a goal Seventh-grader Mattias Hernandez spent to have fun over winter break but also stay to finish my book “The Fellowship of the much of his winter break surfing at Sunset safe and local. He surfed three to four times a Rings.” Although the book is only 400 pages Beach in Pacific Palisades.”Because of week. “The freezing blue murky water against long it’s taken me three months to read it COVID I was more than 6 feet apart from oth- the red and orange beam from the sunset because of how slow paced the book is at er surfers,” he said. “It is very easy to social just keeps me motivated to go,” he said. But moments. I was unsuccessful and although I distance out in the water because you have to be safe he found a private beach where got close I was not able to finish it by the end unlimited space to surf.” only some people have permission to go. of winter break.” February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Paul Revere Middle School 18 Mason Wiener Fight Winter Break-Itis! The part of the year that students most look forward to is winter break. For this there are many rea- sons including the fact that it is the holiday Eighth-grader Shane Masterson and his season, they get to sixth-grade sister, Vanessa, went to see a sleep in, and they get drive-in showing of Grease presented by a break from school, but what people don’t Rooftop Cinema Club. “It was tons of fun realize is that just three weeks of break is and isn’t something we’d normally do,” said enough time for people to forget how to Shane. “Drive-in movies aren’t especially do basic things they had learned in school popular nowadays, but they sure are safe!” Eighth-grader Sophia Hibbert went to Naples, months before. This is the cause of winter Florida with her family for four days to break-itits. celebrate Christmas. On this trip she went In the twenty-first century a time for boating and saw a bunch of dolphins that mindfulness has turned into obsessively followed her boat and also saw some deer binging “The Office” before it leaves Net- around her grandpa’s neighborhood. flix for good. This problem has only been heightened since streaming services were introduced. Now, we find ourselves in an uncertain time full of stress where our only release is laughing at our favorite characters or shed- ding a tear for them. Watching TV for more than 3.5 hours a day greatly affects the de- velopment of your memory, early dementia, and sometimes slurring of speech, so three weeks of binge watching does more than a Eighth-grader Hunter Hughes and Hendrix, number to your brain. “I have completely his sixth-grade brother, got out of the house forgotten what I did over winter break,” and went hiking a lot over the break. “Out said sixth grader Matthew Bolton. of all the places we went this winter break, Many students are affected by winter I liked this the most because of all the great break-itis, including myself. After a winter views we had up there,” said Hunter. break that consisted of binge watching the entirety of “Veep” (35 hours) and many other shows and movies, I went back to virtual school to find myself having for- gotten how to use a pen and many things that I had known in almost all subjects. It took me about another week to learn how to write again which was not very ideal when I had to take notes for my classes. It could be argued that this is because the large sum of time that has passed since you used your brain to think about school, but in the win- ter breaks before COVID-19 people were not having these problems. So next time you have free time don’t waste it inside slowly losing your memo- ries. Instead, go outside and do something. “Over the winter break my family and I stayed Like many COVID quarantiners, seventh- Spend time with your family, read, play near to home,” said seventh-grader Andrew grader Sonny Mulnick adopted a new dog over board games, or even work out. Be warned Tarica. “This made my dog, Romeo, very the break. The 9 week-old Iggy “really went to if you are one of the people who spend all happy because my brother and I were able town on our shoes and slippers,” said Sonny, day on screens, winter break-itis could hit to give him a lot of walks through the UCLA adding that “Iggy did NOT like being in that you next! campus that is almost empty these days.” puppy carrier!” February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 19 Opinion Let’s relax late PENALTIES Strict Deadlines Have No Place in Online Learning

Late work is a contentious topic, whether work promotes quality over speed, creates and chargers, but the district’s arbitrary it be in a real school environment or a a more caring environment for students that restrictions on many educational sites and virtual one like we’re involved with now. have other responsibilities outside of school, YouTube videos seriously hinder a student’s Should teachers accept work later than the and lets students keep up without falling experience. And imagine if we were still deadline to work around technical issues and behind or complicating lessons. using last year’s iPads, which are extremely emphasize the importance of quality? Or There are two sides to every story. But ineffective devices. I’m not talking about will awarding late work letting students turn a passing grade make in work three months students less conditioned late without penalties. to how the real world Students in all classes operates? should still be held Late work accep- accountable and to the tance has been an issue expectations they al- that many entities have ways have been held to. chimed in on with their But extending deadlines opinions. The Depart- can make the difference ment of Education, for between a rushed piece instance, said teachers of work and a well-con- are “encouraged to structed one. lessen or eliminate Tech issues and penalties for late work empathy aside, accept- beyond these deadlines.” ing late work can help LAUSD instated a “no- students in the long run. fail” policy last year Sure, with many jobs where students would you’ll need to get work make up missed work done before a certain instead of getting an F. point, but students The fact is that this new should also be taught environment is still hav- that quality counts. A ing impacts on students, lawyer needs to get and accommodations are documents and cases being made. But with done before a court most districts returning date. But if that lawyer to the A-F grading system instead of a no- procrastinates and rushes it the day before fail or pass-fail, the debate continues: How – like strict late work policies may have late is too late? Producing high quality work encouraged them to – their client won’t win. Different teachers are taking different should be more important Putting more time in to get a better result, approaches. Some retain structures similar and teaching that practice, is always a better to their real-life equivalents, and some are than meeting deadlines. idea. more flexible. A teacher fromitsnotrocket - This new environment is taking a toll scienceclassroom.com says that they don’t on student’s work quality and it doesn’t accept late work as much because it’s harder with this new environment we’re living show any sign of stopping, even with the to grade, isn’t fair to students who turn work in, late work rules need to be more lenient school year half-over. Students should be in on time, and in their own words: “We are than usual. Think about students who don’t held accountable. If a student turns in an trying to teach high schoolers to be respon- have as good a home life. The one place assignment weeks late and expects an A for sible and take ownership for their education. they’ve been able to go to for seven hours effort, they’re delusional. But extensions and But yet we continually give them chance af- a day is gone now and replaced with an modifications to the in-person environment ter chance to meet our expectations.” Others online equivalent. Many students might not are crucial for a functioning online environ- like Rachel Tustin from study.com have a have adequate technology. Sure, the school ment and will create a great foundation for different approach, saying that accepting late and district provide iPads, WiFi routers, students. —Shane Masterson February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 20

The Town Crier asked Patriots whether “If the student is known for always turning late work should be accepted since their schoolwork in on time, then there there are a variety of uncertainties should maybe be a little more leverage as students must continue with to let them turn in late work once in a distance learning. Here are while.” —Adalee Foster, 7th Grade just a few of their answers: “If you’re just being lazy and not “I think that we are at an age turning in your work, teachers now where you no longer shouldn’t accept it.” can just make excuses about —Sonny Gethin, 7th Grade not turning your work in. It should be only if you are ac- “Students already spend hours tually incapable of turning it in front of a screen and feel in.” —Kai Rifkin, 7th Grade exhausted. We have extra curricular activities and chores. “I personally do not accept Accepting late work would lower late work because it is not the weight put on our shoulders.” fair to the students who turn in —Sheedeh Shafah, 7th Grade their work on time. Students fall behind when they do not turn in “Maybe the teacher assigned a ton of work on time. Also, it does create assignments along with the student’s more work for the teachers and if a other teachers. The late work should be student is struggling there are plenty of accepted, but maybe the student doesn’t opportunities for the student to get help; have to earn full credit for it.” office hours, Advisory HR, etc.” —Noah Roshan, 7th Grade —Ms. Daley, 6th Grade English/History “It is okay to turn things in late only if you “When a student was ill or had a family “Accepting late work as the norm encour- have a good excuse. Teachers are already issue or had any sort of emergency they ages procrastination and leads to bad work doing enough and don’t need the extra should be able to get a days extension and habits. I do, however, think that teachers work.” —Philippa Ang, 6th Grade turn in their work late. As long as they have should be more lenient about the amount of emailed their teacher about the issue then I time students have to complete work.” “I think it is okay to turn in the work late see no reason to be upset if an assignment is —Viola Browne, 7th Grade before the teacher is done grading the other late.” —Isabella Tavakoli, 8th Grade students’ work. If you submit an assignment “Some people have some other things to do after the teacher is done grading all of them, “Some people are truly struggling and teach- other than homework out side of school. All that makes another extra assignment for the ers understand. Teachers also have expecta- the teachers assign work like their students teacher to grade while they are working on tions and they want their students to under- have nothing to do in their days other than something else.” —Roya Gneid 7th Grade stand the work. But COVID is an excuse for that homework.” late work. If and when we go back to school, —Sherwin Hazany, 8th Grade “I think that some of my teachers accept late I think that late work shouldn’t be accepted work because they just want us to do the in real life.’ —Margo Kristo, 6th Grade “Late work should be accepted if you don’t work.” —Dashiell Hansford, 7th Grade get the concept or you have a good reason “Teachers could weed out who can’t get the like you are not at school for a day or you “Teachers should except late work only if work in, who just trips up a bit, and who is have a family problem.” the student had a family issue illness or they actually taking advantage of the teachers.” —Christie Turner, 6th Grade were out of town.” —Jack Levey, 6th Grade —Alice Lewicky, 6th Grade “It is extremely hard to manage schoolwork and life itself. Knowing that if their assign- ment can be late by a day or two will be helps to lower anxiety. There should be a difference between homework and learn- Do you think ing.” —Sophia Hopf, 8th Grade teachers should

“A few more days also allows for kids to get accept late work? more sleep, other than staying up late trying to get things in by 11:59.”

—Ingrid Knap, 7th Grade Based on a poll conducted the week of Feb. 1, 2021 of 221 Patriots from all three grades. “Most kids can have bad WiFi which can Graphics: Google Forms. lead to not being able to turn something in on time. Most teachers are giving more homework than if we were at school.” —Hannah Altman, 7th Grade February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Opinion Paul Revere Middle School 21 TALKING HEADS Should middle schoolers celebrate Valentine’s Day? As Valentine’s Day came closer, some teachers and students were busily planning what to do, while others didn’t even know when it was. Below, Patriots discuss if their peers are even old enough to celebrate the popular worldwide holiday.

“No, middle schoolers are too young to engage in Valentine’s Day. At least in elementary school, it’s less about the day itself and more about a class activity. In middle school, there is too much drama and most people end up unhappy at the end of the day. I think middle schoolers are not mature enough to celebrate Valentine’s Day.” —Mason Wiener, Grade 7

“I think that middle schoolers should be able to celebrate Valentine’s Day but not necessarily in a romantic way. Instead, people should celebrate by giving treats to others, because it is a good way to spread joy and kindness.” —Brooke Abraham, Grade 6

“Yes, we should be able to celebrate Valentine’s Day because I feel like we are old enough to express our feelings and learn the do’s and don’ts in a relationship, such as how to treat one another.” —Jayden Lucas, Grade 7

“I do, because celebrating Valentine’s Day is still TOWN CRIER POLL enjoyable for everybody. Even if it is not for love, you can still have fun with friends. It’s fun to write Valentine’s Day cards and be creative with Should ten days those.” — Philippa Ang, Grade 6 be added to the “I do think that students should because it’s a fun 2021–2022 holiday even if it isn’t for romantic purposes. You school year? can get creative with what you do and treat the holiday as a fun party. Also, Valentine’s Day is fun Based on a Google Forms poll because you get to hang with friends and you get conducted during the week of Feb. 1 candy.” —Beatrice Hudson, Grade 6 of 229 Patriots from all three grades. “I think middle schoolers absolutely can celebrate Valentine’s Day! The holiday doesn’t just have to be VOLUME 65, ISSUE 3 a romantic occasion for adults, it can also be a fun exchange of candy with friends or siblings. It can also be something to celebrate with your parents! There’s an infinite amount of ways for everyone to Published by and for the students of celebrate.” —Avery Zemlak, Grade 8 Paul Revere Charter Middle School and Magnet Center 1450 W. Allenford Avenue Los Angeles, California 90049 “I think Valentine’s Day is fun for middle Editors: James Ball, Hunter Hughes, schoolers. It’s not just about romantic love, but Arik Kraft, Giada Musumeci, showing love and appreciation for friends, too!” Casey Scaduto, Nico Troedsson, —Ms. Gualano, Teacher Librarian Member of the National Amanda Wexler, Mason Wiener, Lily Williamson, Avery Zemlak Scholastic Press Association Faculty Advisor: Mr. Wechsler Interviews and layout by Giada Musumeci February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 22 Entertainment

Netflix Influences the Next Generation The hit shows “Cobra Kai” delves into the main character’s unthinkable family and on apps,” adds Yoni Feldman. journey from a little orphan to a grandmaster. It is pretty daring to create a new ver- and “The Queen’s Gambit” Brooke Santos remarks “The Queen Gambit sion of the Karate Kid, but is even crazier to inspire two new PEP classes. is influential to me because I love how it bring back the same exact cast from 37 years talks about equality among men and wom- ago and make it a hit! The creators of Co- By NOAH HOURIANI en and how women can do even more than bra Kai have been successful at exactly this. men.” This Netflix series not only exhibits Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence.... Who knew T.V. shows we watch today the adversities in life but also the inequality we all know the saga of their youth...Cobra are being brought to life by Paul Revere Mid- between men and women and how one little Kai picks up 35 years later, this time with dle School. New and popular Netflix shows girl can turn the tables just by pursuing her the tables turned. From a once poor kid to a such as “The Queen’s Gambit” and “Cobra dream. No wonder this limited series was successful businessman, Daniel LaRusso is Kai” have sparked a new-found interest in ranked #1 in the U.S. on Netflix. now living the life with his beautiful fami- PEP classes. This phenomena has spread Paul Revere Middle School is taking ad- ly. Meanwhile, Johnny Lawrence has slid around the country as virtual tutoring com- vatage of the Queen’s Gambit popularity and from his throne as the wealthy popular kid panies have tapped into the same marketing is bringing its intrigue into the life of Patriots in school to a lonely, alcoholic with no job. system and are using popular Netflix shows through after school PEP classes. Just like This show is very unique because the cast to attract customers. These shows aren’t just other virtual companies, Paul Revere has consists of characters from three different inspiring new and interesting classes but are created a Queen’s Gambit Chess class for generations. This show teaches many im- also influencing the next generation. Stu- those who want to improve their chess skills. portant lessons. Viewers can see how one’s dents themselves want to attend rather than Famous chess moves from the show are decisions early on in life can have a major their parents persuading them to because of taught in this class in depth so that students impact in the character’s future. Mr. Miyagi’s the trendy and relatable topics. Patriots are can understand what they’re watching in the famous life lessons about having a balanced discovering new passions and want to con- movie and how to incorporate that into their life, never losing to fear, and to put princi- tinue to develop their skills. chess life. The Queen’s Gambit show has ple before passion are just some examples The one thing that Netflix really needed also caused a huge uptick in teens playing of how to live a successful life. Due to the to increase teen viewership was a relatable chess tournaments online. “I’ve liked chess show’s unique ability to present the outcome and influential show. And that is exactly ever since I was very young, but my parents of decisions 35 years prior, teens are shown what Netflix did. The Queen’s Gambit is an watched the Queen’s Gambit and it got them the consequences of poor decision making. awe-inspiring and unprecedented show that back into chess. Now, we play chess with my The lessons from Miyagi February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Entertainment Paul Revere Middle School 23 influenced LaRusso’s life in a positive way The new and the lessons from Johnny’s teacher affect PEP class him negatively. It shows how impactful a is kicking mentor in your life at an early age can be. “It into action. talks about school bullying, difficult child- hoods or living situations, and it connects to what some students actually experience in real life. It is unique and special because it shows how one common liking or fondness of something can connect people together,” Brooke Santos insightfully adds. The older generation of parents and the younger gen- eration of kids are able to watch the show together and bond. It’s an experience where the older generation can sit down with their kids and watch a favorite show from their childhood with the same enthusiasm as their teens. These were the exact sentiments of Coach Lafolette. “It bridged the gap between my (older) generation and my kids (younger) generation because we are able to relate to the characters.” Patriots now have the opportunity to bring “Cobra Kai” into their homes once more as PEP has created a Cobra Kai karate class. As Coach Lafolette notes “Cobra Kai Netflix series definitely had an impact on en- rollment. Because of the success and popu- larity of the show, there’s been an increase in curiosity, interest and excitement in karate.” personal experience with karate. “I started “Cobra Kai” have inspired Patriots to go There has been a new-found interest in taking Taekwondo classes after seeing mar- out of their comfort zone and try things they karate as Paul Revere students are inspired tial arts on television and after watching Co- wouldn’t normally do. Having the oppor- by the Netflix series to give karate a try. bra Kai, it only motivates me to work harder tunity to participate in a class themed after Brooke Santos gives some insight on her and do more.” This PEP class covers a wide your favorite show brings some much-needed range of Taekwondo skills such as self de- excitement to Patriots during the pandemic. fense, punches, kicks, and blocks. Paul Revere PEP won’t just stop at Co- The session often begins with stretching bra Kai Karate and Queen’s Gambit Chess. and basic skills and then jumps into kicking Who knows, maybe your new favorite Net- techniques. Finally, Ma’am Emily, the ka- flix show will soon be a PEP class! rate instructor, individually works on each PEP was able to adapt to the times and use student’s skills and gives advice on how to shows to increase enrollment. They jumped unleash their “inner cobra.” on the bandwagon quickly and didn’t hesi- Indeed, the new and popular Netflix tate. And as Johnny Lawrence always says, These days, no one needs a real chess set. series such as “The Queen’s Gambit” and “Strike first, strike hard, no mercy sir!” As Film Festival Deadline Nears, Entertainment VIPs Lend Their Support With preparations for Revere’s 7th Annual Film Festival well underway, Mr. Hyman invited several industry veterans to “Zoom in” with tips for young film- makers who are currently wrapping up their short films. First up on Feb. 16 was producer/director Jon Turteltaub, who has worked with a who’s who of great actors in such projects as “National Treasure” and “While You Were Sleeping.” On Feb. 17, writer/director Rob Greenberg of “Frasier” and “How I Met Your Mother” fame talked to Patriots about the importance of the story in filmmaking. One day later, students got to hear from a famous actor, Camryn Manheim, who gave tips to Revere actors to show their best self on camera. Revere student Writer/director Susan Fitzer asked her, “What is the best thing a director can do to motivate an Rob Greenberg shared actor to act a certain way?” She replied, “Directors should definitely not act out his industry insights the part for them. A director should give the actor a good idea of the mood, the as his multiple Emmys scene, and who they are with and a good actor will understand how to represent towered above him. the emotion that is given to them.” Festival submissions are due Mar. 12 and the event will be Friday, Apr. 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. More info can be found on the school website. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Entertainment Paul Revere Middle School 24 QuarantineQuarantine ReadsReads By CASEY SCADUTO Finding new books to read is a great way to spend time in quar- antine and is also a good hobby. Depending on the genre, you may read about dystopian societies, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton follows Most Likely by Sarah Watson is a great the story of a rivalry between “greasers” post-apocalyptic worlds, world book about a friend group of four girls who live on the poorer east side of Tulsa, history, or science. These plots are and their experiences through high Oklahoma and the wealthier “Socs" who what make a book have a ‘can’t school. This fine book details their strug- live on the west side. The story takes gles and achievements. Each of them is readers through the pressures of reputa- put it down’ quality. These books navigating their way through their senior tion and resentment that the rivals have for achieve that standard with their year, deciding which colleges they will each other. It’s told from the perspective apply to and studying for the SAT. Each of Ponyboy, who learns why it’s important thought-provoking and interesting characters and plots. of the girls narrates different chapters to “stay gold.” This is a great book and I from their perspective. —Casey Scaduto highly recommend it. —Ryan Hirschberg

Even If We Break by Marieke Nijkamp is The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Rior- Ready Player One by Ernest Cline is a captivating thriller fiction with its character dan is intriguing, brave and suspenseful. It great novel for teens. Besides the occa- depth and story details that will shock you. is a perfect mix of romance, action and dra- sional cussing, the storyline is amazing The double meanings behind what all the ma. I also think that the way that the author and talks a lot about ’80s pop culture. The characters go through are very enjoyable. includes many facts about Greek mythol- story takes place in the future where Earth The scary moments add to the suspense. I ogy is rather fascinating. I would also rec- is overpopulated and to get away from recommend this to anyone who enjoys a hor- ommend this book to anyone who wants to problems, people play a VR type inter- ror mystery that they can solve along with binge read a series because once you start active game called the OASIS. The main the characters. With an interesting turn of one of these five books, it’s difficult to do character Wade Watts tries to find the three events at the end of every chapter, you won’t anything else until you’ve had the satisfac- keys the creator of the game hid away. It’s be able to put it down! —Molly Liberman tion of reading them all. —Ryan Lutz a great adventure! —Sophia Hopf February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 25 Lifestyle

Sophie Smeeton looks at Google Classroom, while Gili Egri checks her Schoology page.

Teachers are not the only ones who like ment, like a PDF or a Google Doc, is not only Many different websites and to use Schoology during this pandemic. Gili accessible by Classroom, but it is also locat- apps are serving as helpful Egri, a seventh-grader at Revere, says that ed in the student’s Google Drive. she thinks that Schoology is very efficient, Eighth-grade history teacher, Mr. Fulling technological tools this year. “It allows you to see all of your grades at says, “I use google classroom for all assign- By GIADA MUSUMECI once, keep track of all your assignments, and ments, tests, and notes. I can post videos, ma- contact your teachers easily.” terials, etc. on it that are easily accessible.” Most teachers around Revere use Schoolo- On the other hand, even though School- Some students also prefer Google Classroom gy daily to communicate with students or as- ogy is accessible by every student, some over Schoology. Sophie Smeeton, a student sign homework. Schoology is a helpful tool teachers feel it does not meet the needs of at Revere, states, “Classroom is easier to nav- for teachers that has many functions, includ- their classroom. Mr. Roig, a seventh grade igate and less confusing. All of your classes ing, messaging students or other teachers, or English teacher, states why he uses a multi- are separate and it is a lot easier to submit posting an update to the whole classroom. A tude of platforms, “I want my students to be assignments.” student can also see their calendar that shows tech-savvy and to experience a lot of what’s Besides Classroom and Schoology, teach- the assigned homework, tests, and upcoming out there!” ers also use a variety of apps and websites. events. Google Classroom is a common alter- Some examples are IXL which is mostly used Ms. Barbieri, a sixth-grade English native to Schoology. To sign in to Google for math, NoRedInk for English, and more. and history teacher, explains why she likes Classroom, a student has to get a code from IXL is divided into two parts: math and Schoology. “ I find Schoology to be a well-or- their teacher. Like Schoology, in Classroom, language arts. The math part is divided into ganized platform that enables me to manage, one can see their assigned homework or grade levels (from Prek to 8th grade) and the create and share content for my classes.” projects. A student can also see the people in types of math, like Algebra 1 or Geometry. Mr. Showrai, an eighth-grade math teach- their class. Unlike Schoology, Classroom’s Each section is organized into categories, er, agrees that Schoology is helpful. “If ev- assignments are directly put into a person’s such as angles for geometry. Then, in each eryone uses the same system, it’s less confus- google calendar, which a lot of people use. category, there are quizzes that help stu- ing for students and parents,” he says. Also, anything a student turns in to an assign- dents study a particular part of the category, February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Lifestyle Paul Revere Middle School 26 like angle measures for the angles category. stand,” says Ms. Johnston, an eighth-grade When a student takes a quiz, they must an- Which platform English teacher. Students also like Nearpod swer questions that IXL produces, and each do you prefer? because of its interactivity. Lily Williamson, time they answer correctly, they receive a an eighth-grader, states, “I love Nearpod be- few points, but if they answer incorrectly cause it is interactive and easy to use! There they lose points. The language arts section are lots of things to keep students engaged in is mostly the same, but the only difference the lesson.” is that instead of being divided from PreK Some teachers also use Padlet which is an to 8th grade and the types of math, it is only ‘online bulletin board’. Students can anon- divided into grade levels from PreK to 12th ymously ask questions or post comments grade. about the class where everyone can see. “I In addition, NoRedInk is a helpful quiz- use a padlet at the beginning or at the end of zing tool for English teachers, since it can a lesson to check on what students know and only be used for Language Arts. This web- what they have learned,” Mr. Schepps, a sev- site can be used to quiz students, or let them enth-grade history teacher states. practice skills that they can use. NoRedInk Similiar to Padlet, Google Jambord is also lets a student choose their interests, like becoming another popular “online bulletin favorite movies or books, to include them in board”. Teachers usually give the URL in- the quizzes. Similar to IXL, when a student viting students to the website. Students can takes a quiz, if they answer wrong, they have draw, erase, put images, post-it notes, and to get three right answers in a row to move Poll of 223 Patriots from all three grades text boxes on the Jamboard, Though, unlike on to finish the quiz. Not only does this web- conducted the week of Feb. 1, 2021. Padlet anything a student or teacher writes, site quiz students, but it can also be used as Graphics: Google Forms. draws, etc. isn’t anonymous. a ‘placement test’ for teachers to see how in- Last but not least, Kahoot has become a formed their students are in the subject. popular game that students like to play. In Teachers are having to adjust not only the board in a real class. A teacher can screen Kahoot, a teacher can generate a ‘quiz’ or to Schoology but to teaching an online class- share any window on their computer to ex- use one already made. If teachers create their room in Zoom. Every teacher has a different plain the lesson. Teachers can also allow stu- own, they can choose if they want a multi- way of teaching on Zoom, whether it is using dents to screen share so that they can help the ple-choice question, a true or false question, breakout rooms, or sharing the screen. student understand. an open-ended question, a puzzle, or a poll. Ms. Moreno, an 8th grade English teach- Still, some teachers at Revere use After the teachers are finished creating er, says, “I use Zoom as my only conferenc- other websites or apps that best fit their the quiz, students go to the website where ing platform. I like the interactive features it classroom. Two common alternatives are they enter the code to join their teacher’s provides for students, such as, ‘screen share,’ Nearpod and Padlet. quiz. When the class starts taking the quiz, a ‘breakout-rooms,’ and ‘Zoom chat.’” Nearpod is a website where teachers can student answers each question, and depend- Zoom has many features that can make it inform students while making them do fun ing on if they get the answer right or wrong, feel like a normal classroom or even better. activities. A student must enter a code to join and how much time a person took to answer A student can virtually raise their hand, ap- the lesson. There is usually a slideshow that it, students that are participating are ranked plaud, and even put a thumbs up. Teachers contains information about the lesson. But a from first to last place. This website/app can create breakout rooms where students teacher can also include interactive slides. helps students get involved in the lesson from can talk with their peers, without disrupting There can be a quiz, a poll, a video, a ques- home. other students. Also, the teacher has the abili- tion where students respond, and more. As the 2020 semester finishes and the 2021 ty to turn on the chat, where students can pri- “I enjoy Nearpod because it makes pre- semester begins, teachers are adapting to the vately message them. sentations a lot more interactive and engag- pandemic by choosing the platform that best In addition, screen sharing is another im- ing for the students. By giving students small fits their environment. Students use these portant feature of Zoom. It makes the virtual activities between slides, it lets me see how platforms daily, making them familiar with classroom experience feel like looking up to my lesson is doing and if my students under- more and more websites and apps.

Eighth-grader Lily Williamson signs into Nearpod. Another eighth-grader, Isabella Tavakoli, is working on this Jamboard for Ms. Makhani’s class. February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Lifestyle Paul Revere Middle School 27 S’m res Galore! Patriots never get tired of the beloved age-old tasty treat. Seventh-grader Mason Wiener totally roasts a By SONNY MULNICK marshmallow over his I, like many people, love s’mores machine. s’mores. Sitting around a campfire with friends, roasting marshmallows, sandwiching it between a graham cracker and a piece of chocolate, and the combination of the gooeyness of the marshmallow and the crunchiness of the graham cracker. And after you’re done, you want s’more! As a Boy Scout, I can say there are so many amazing camping memories where I had a s’more in my hands, laughing with friends and family around a crackling fire. The last time something like this happened, I was with my family because of COVID, and the Scouts aren’t do- ing camping trips. I went to Ventura and stayed at a place called the Koa Campsites. Believe it or not, s’mores are pretty recent in the grand scheme of things. Their first appearance in a cookbook references it as a “Graham Cracker Sandwich” in the 1920’s, saying it was popu- lar with Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts . In 1927, in Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts, the same recipe for this strange new treat was named “Some More,” and in 1956, the name “s’more” came to life. S’mores have become a big But s’mores takes it to another products, like seventh-grader marshmallow over the machine part of camping trips. Most every level, and it’s hard to describe. Mason Wiener. He has a device for just two minutes!” camping trip I go on, whether Perhaps it’s the marshmallow that makes the perfect gold- And s’mores aren’t only the with the Scouts or my family, melting in the graham cracker en-brown marshmallow. “Now crunchy gooey sandwiches we there’s a campfire, and there are and getting on my hands and there are machines that allow all know. Different companies s’mores. They have become a face, or the half-melted piece people to make s’mores without have made their own s’mores big part of camping in general, of chocolate that’s still slightly all the hassle straight from their products. For example, there are and they’ve become one of my crunchy but still gooey. S’mores home,” Wiener says. “It makes s’mores Eggo waffles, s’more favorite desserts ever! I love have become such a big part of the whole process so easy. I Goldfish, s’more ice cream, even the strange texture of s’mores; my life, whether camping or not. enjoy the ability to just take out s’more Pop Tarts! See yourself Crunchy on the outside, and goo- In fact, some Patriots don’t the machine and ingredients and on the next page how far man- ey on the inside. Most anything even need a campfire. They then get a perfect golden brown ufacturers are going to keep the with that texture is loved by me. have their own s’mores-making marshmallow by just holding my s’more craze alive! February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Lifestyle Paul Revere Middle School 28 A S’MORES-gasbord of Goodies On a scale of 1 to 5 marshmallows, experts rate varieties of the favorite sweet. Interviews by Sonny Mulnick

Goldfish S’mores Grahams “The graham cracker fish tasted S’mores Pop Tarts “For optimal deliciousness, you have to toast bland and the chocolate ones tasted weird. The marshmallow fish them because they’re too crunchy and don’t taste as good untoasted. were great and tasted sort of like the Lucky Charms marshmallows, They don’t really taste like s’mores, but they had the perfect sweet- but they overwhelmed the other flavors.” —Benji Mokhtar OOO ness. I might buy these again.” —Cole Hubbard OOOO

Pepperidge Farms S’mores “These were too sweet and tasted Quaker Chewy S’mores “The bar was too sweet and tasted more more like sugar cookies than s’mores. There wasn’t enough chocolate, like a granola bar than s’mores because there was not enough marsh- and the texture varied wildly. However, the size was good, and they mallow or graham cracker. The chocolate was pretty good, though. I still tasted pretty good.” —Jayden Lucas OOO don’t think I’d ever buy this again.” —Maxou Susini OOO

S’mores Chips Ahoy! “They were too sweet, and some chocolate Think! S’mores “The sweetness Quest S’mores “This protein chips were too hard. However, the cookie itself tasted like graham is perfect with a nice combo of bar is hard to chew and tastes a cracker, and the chocolate and marshmallow really helped make chocolate and graham cracker.” little like caramel cookies.” them taste like actual s’mores.” —Nicholas Gordon OOOO —Noah Houriani OOOO —Cameron Yashouafar OOO February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Lifestyle Paul Revere Middle School 29

Patriots share what activities are cool and not cool during the pandemic. Layout by LILY WILLIAMSON “I think that staying home and “During COVID, it’s much watching movies with family harder going to a theater. Movie is currently the new normal theaters are simply not meant because if I were to go to the for distancing, with small en- movie theaters now, it would trances and tight seating. To get be harder to stay safe and social into a movie theater you never distanced. Plus, my family are distanced, and there are few is saving a lot of money by ways to stay distanced through- watching movies at home, be- out the film. You’d need to take cause when we go to the movie away rows of seats just to be theaters, it is always expensive, distanced vertically. Having an because we have to pay for open movie theater would be food and tickets.”—Leena Adeli very hard.” —Cole Sugarman

“It is better to order take-out “During the pandemic we’ve than just go to a restaurant be- been very limited in what we cause it’s safer. When you order can do, including going to food you’re not going out and restaurants. Restaurants have potentially exposing yourself closed due to new laws, and or others to COVID. Eating out very few are open. Even with at a restaurant could mean that precautions, the virus is still you come home and give it to transmissible, and if you get it, your family members. COVID you could end up putting your spreads like wildfire, so try who family at risk. Even getting your best to use things like takeout has its risks, so make Door Dash for your fast food sure to be cautious when order- needs!” —Vanessa Masterson ing food.” —Owen Fisher

“For the time being, Zoom “It’s important to remember gatherings are the way to go. that gathering in-person is un- Hanging out with my friends in safe. It’s important if we want person is very risky. On Zoom, to travel and hang out with my friends and I have found friends again, to keep wearing ways to make it super fun, and a mask, social distance and stay enjoy our calls without seeing at home. Don’t go places with each other in person. Staying lots of people, unless you have connected over Zoom is the to, like to the grocery store. The safest way to stay in touch, and sooner we take these precau- by doing this, we are helping to tions, the sooner we can go slow the spread of COVID and back to being able to hang out stay safe.” —Ava Simon with friends.” —Jules Walsh

“I believe sports events “Going to a stadium game to shouldn’t be in-person right watch sports live is just one now. Sports aren’t essential of the best sports experiences during a pandemic. Opt for you can get, and while there streaming your games live, are some stadiums that do on ESPN, and other channels. allow fans, I believe that they This will keep people safe, and should remain shut down. Due has its perks, allowing you to to the surge of COVID cases rewind. During the pandemic right now I believe it is best it is important to separate the for everyone to stay at home. necessary from the unneces- Watching your team compete sary, and right now, sports are at home can ensure everyone’s unnecessary.” —Gabi Traum safety.” —Enzo Choi Feburary 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Lifestyle Paul Revere Middle School 30 Seventh-graders Jayden Lucas (left), Eli Konecke and Willa Browne (bottom).

Spaced Out Work Spaces With school online, Patriots have set up their own school desks to go to class and do homework. By SOFIA ALDANA tractions, I make sure to keep other electronic “Since I don’t do Zoom on a laptop, my devices or non-school necessities on the oth- family decided to get a monitor so the small Inside school classrooms, there are usual- er side of my room, because I work best in a screen of my school iPad appeared larger and ly many desks or tables where kids can work. non-distracting organized workspace. If my more like an ‘in-person’ class. A lot of my Since Patriots are no longer learning on cam- workspace is messy, my work habits will be peers use laptops to Zoom on, rather than pus they have to find a place where they can messy!” monitors, but I feel monitors give more to the learn easily at home. A new work space could Early in the school year, science teacher virtual experience!” be set up in a living room, bedroom or maybe Mr. Augenblick did an activity in his class Even though Patriots are no longer at- even a dining room. When looking for a new about work spaces. He says, “I can only hope tending school in person, using a backpack workspace, there are some things everyone that keeping the conversation current will can give them a place to store books and might want to have in mind. encourage students to set up and maintain a school materials as well as the feeling that According to Melaine Pinola, a N.Y. workspace conducive to their learning needs. they are “going to school.” Times technology writer, “The most import- I know what works for one student won’t Patriots are social distancing but that ant thing is to have one consistent spot— necessarily work for another, and that’s okay. doesn’t mean that learning should be harder. even if it’s in a multipurpose room like a Redesigning as you go is completely accept- By staying organized, positive, and having an dining room—where kids can follow a learn- able until you find what works best for you.” open mind, online school can be both fun as it at-home routine.” The desk or work space Seventh-grader Asa Stratmann says, can be educational. should have enough room for the things used in everyday classes. How much space needed will depend on classes and school grade. Having some back support while sitting in a chair is helpful. It is also helpful to use the school planners given to organize home- work and know when class periods start and end. Some people have started using online calendars but Melaine Pinola recommends having a physical calendar: “A physical re- minder of a child’s daily schedule can still be helpful, whether you have an early learner or a student in high school.” Another thing she recommends is labeling things, which espe- cially helpful if students have siblings. It is also important to keep an organized or clean work space, says eighth-grader Willa Browne. “My workspace is arranged in a way where only my pencils, calculator and com- puter are on my desk, each having a cup to stay in so that they aren’t lying around messi- ly,” she says. “My to-do check list is taped on my mirror in front of me, to show me what homework or test I need to do. To avoid dis- February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 31 Sports Mr. Lafolette surfs on a wave at the ocean.

‘For‘For thethe LoveLove ofof thethe Sport’Sport’ For three Revere teachers, it’s no fun to be just a spectator—they’re right out there competing. ball. He started playing at the young age of By HUNTER HUGHES hockey to roller hockey, and finally to ice around 8 years old. Recently, he has still hockey. Ms. Barbieri says she enjoys the fast No one is ever going to call them bench been playing in adult leagues. Mr. Liberatori and exciting nature of the sport. warmers. That’s because the three Revere is inspired to play baseball because it brings Her greatest moment while playing hock- teachers on this page know how to put them- him peace and helps him forget about his ey? “It was scoring a goal to break a tie that selves out there and stay in the game. worries and instead to have fun. Mr. Libera- eventually got my team to the playoffs!”she History teacher Mr. Liberatori plays base- tori’s most memorable moment playing base- remembers proudly. ball was when he had the opportunity to play his high school summer league championship game at the official Los Angeles Dodgers sta- dium. When Mr. Lafolette isn’t teaching P.E., there’s a good chance he’s at the beach do- ing his favorite sport: surfing. He first started surfing at the age of 7 and still hits the waves regularly. Mr. Lafolette says his inspiration is Larid Hamilton, who is mostly known for his surfing skills and innovations. “He didn’t surf to win competitions,” explains Mr. Lafo- lette. “He surfed for the love of the sport and for the love of adventure.” Mr Lafolette’s fa- vorite memory related to surfing was having a photo of him posted on the homepage of the NSR, which is a website from a surf camp in Central America. Looks like Sixth-grade English teacher Ms Barbieri a hit for Mr. is also attracted to sports on water, as long as Liberatori. the water is frozen. That’s because she plays hockey. Unlike Mr. Lafolette and Mr, Liberatori, who started Ms. Barbieri early with their sports careers, has one goal Ms. Barbieri only started playing her sport at in mind. the age of 20. She started out playing floor hockey, and over time transitioned from floor Feburary 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Sports Paul Revere Middle School 32

Now more than ever, life goes better with sports. The young athletes shown here show a passion for physical activity, and they are all ones to watch as they push their limits as far as they can.

“Practice Makes Perfect” “The Best Is Yet to Come” Seventh-grader Jakob Heindel has a passion for soccer. “Practice makes perfect,” he says, Eighth-grader Martha Valkov has been and he is always trying to become the best soccer player he can. Since age five, Jakob has training in rhythmic gymnastics the whole been working on his skills in the game and winning championships. Jakob loves watching the time since the pandemic began. She has been Jake Vander Veen perfecting his game. games too—not just for entertainment, but to master and analyze the pro gameplay. working a few months at home in the living Jakob’s favorite player is Mohamed Salah from Liverpool, because of his drive and work room four hours every day and then in the Jakob Heindel Competing for State Cup Championship ethic. Winning the state cup is Jakob’s greatest soccer accomplishment so far. Due to COVID gym. She fell in love with the sport when she 19, the team Jakob plays for, the L.A. Bulls, have soccer practices in person and online over was 6 year old and in first grade. “I realized Zoom. With Jakob’s love and drive for the game of soccer, big things will likely come his way I have to do this,” she said, but admits that it in the future. —Connor Petoyan has not always been easy. “My experience has been rough,” she “Whatever It Takes” says. “I can’t count how many times I’ve cried over and over. I would need a billion Seventh-grader Jake Vander Veen has an hands. I will certainly be thinking out loud intense love for basketball. Since age five, and hoping the best is yet to come.” Jake has put countless hours into perfecting So far, the 14-year-old seems to be mak- his game with a wish of going to the NBA. ing steady progress toward her goals. She has He has a schedule of practicing 3-5 times a been one of the three top rhythmic gymnasts week and watches the games during the week at Regional Championships for five states and weekend. (California, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona Jake keeps up with every NBA game, and Utah) for the past three years. She attend- with Stephen Curry being his favorite player. ed an Elite Camp in the Olympic Center at “My goal is to play in the NBA and I will do Lake Placid. Her goal this year is to become whatever it takes,” he promises. a USA Rhythmic Gymnastics National team He was encouraged to play the sport by member and to be able to compete in Inter- his father, who was a college basketball star. nationals Championships and Olympics in His greatest accomplishments so far in bas- 2024. ketball are winning the city championship “I will go to the Olympics one day,” Mar- twice and winning the Paul Revere sixth tha promises, “and I get goosebumps think- grade basketball championship. With a pas- ing about it. Having the entire country on sion for basketball, and the right motivation my shoulders is frightening. Terrifying. But to do what he loves, Jake Vander Veen has that’s what it is, commitment. I love what I big plans to take his game to the next level. do, and no one is ever going to change that, —Connor Petoyan not even myself.” —James Ball

Eigth Grader Martha Valkov Practices Her Rythm February 19, 2021 Paul Revere Middle School 33 F un Zone WHERE’S BERNIE? On Inauguration Day, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was photographed bundled up in his warmest winter clothes and sitting all alone on the Capitol steps. Before long he found himself trapped in an endless parade of altered pics that nearly broke the

Internet. Below, he’s hidden among members of the Class of 2021, shown long before COVID arrived on the scene. Photoshopping: Lily Williamson

out the words “Happy Valentine’s Day” on all balloons. 6. Took out the “Kisses” from the chocolate box on Mae’s lap. 7. Added two heart balloons in background. 8. Took off all the bear’s facial features in Lucie’s lap. Lucie’s in features facial bear’s the all off Took 8. background. in balloons heart two Added 7. lap. Mae’s on box chocolate the from “Kisses” the out Took 6. balloons. all on Day” Valentine’s “Happy words the out

SPOT THE DIFFERENCES: 1. Switched Hazel’s ripped jean on other knee. 2. Took off Mae’s spots on her jeans. 3. Took off Hazel’s necklace. 4. Made Lucie hold two flowers instead of one. 5. Took Took 5. one. of instead flowers two hold Lucie Made 4. necklace. Hazel’s off Took 3. jeans. her on spots Mae’s off Took 2. knee. other on jean ripped Hazel’s Switched 1. DIFFERENCES: THE SPOT ANSWERS: February 19, 2021 THE TOWN CRIER Fun Zone Paul Revere Middle School 34 SPOT THE DIFFERENCES Try to find all 8love ly changes! Photoshopping: Eli Hamid ASK AVERY

Eighth-grader Avery Zemlak shares some heartfelt advice.

Dear Avery, From left, Hazel Levine, Lucie Brazier and Mae Resnick enjoy a social distanced Valentine’s Day. There’s this girl that I really like and I think she likes me too but I’m not sure how to tell her because I don’t want it to destroy our friendship. How do I know if I should tell her? Sincerely, Un Shore Dear Un Shore, If you really like this girl, you’ll know when the time is right. I understand being scared about your friendship being dam- aged, but if she chooses to not be friends at all instead of just friends, is that really the kind of friend you want? —Avery Dear Avery, My doctor has told me to stop buying chocolate heart boxes but I can’t help myself. They’re the only thing that keeps the tears away. What should I do? From, Drowning in Chocolate THE YEAR THAT NEVER ENDED Satire: Mason Wiener Dear Drowning in Chocolate, Not long ago, Patriots were awaiting the end of what has been called the worst year in Remember that Valentine’s day is history, but the grand finale was not at all what people expected it to be. On Dec. 31 people something you can celebrate with friends awaited in anticipation. At 11:59 the countdown began. People cheered, they counted down, and family who won’t make you sad and and they ate a whole lot. But when the timer hit ten seconds left, the ball was still stuck at the help regulate your chocolate intake! top. Three. Two. One. But what was this, when the clock struck twelve it was Dec. 32, 2020? —Avery Scientists are still not sure how this could happen but what we are sure about is that Dear Avery, people are outraged and soon took their anger out on the street, rioting and pillaging as they I have a Valentine’s Day tradition that pleased. This led to almost all stocks dropping to an all-time low (except for Amazon, which I do with my best friends every year. rose another thousand points in all this chaos). To address the nation in its time of need is our This year, because of COVID guide- beloved president Vermin Love Supreme, who escaped from the White House on ponyback lines, we can’t do it. I’m really sad be- as it was being besieged. “My fellow Americans, I will promise you anything your little cause we all look forward to this every heart’s desires, of course I have no intention of keeping this promise!” year. What should I do to feel better? Political analyst, acclaimed author and Revere student Hum Ian Being said, “The world as Signed, we know it is crumbling and the imbeciles in power are just twiddling their thumbs and running Pam Demic Suckz away. There is only one solution to this: Let’s rewrite the textbooks and claim Dear Pam, this never happened. Then in fact it will never have happened!” Mr. Since you all can’t be together in Being’s plan failed miserably and caused poverty to spread expo- person, host a Zoom or a Facetime! You nentially due to all the wasted taxpayer dollars and Vermin Supreme can all get together and even plan fun was impeached for his terrible job as president. Vermin, however, activities to do. You may physically be didn’t let this stop him and refused to leave office by infecting all of apart, but you can still celebrate the day Congress with his zombie virus (which he had created previously to together safely while having fun! power America) so they could not vote. For now, he remains out of —Avery sight, as the year that never ended drags on and on and on.