Stephen Ngo to Be Principal How Will You Help the Students by Amber Dukes Succeed? I Will Help Students in Every Way Pos- Tephen Ngo Will Be Become Prin- Sible

SteinmetzVolume 77, Number 5, March-April 2012 Star Inside this issue Stephen Ngo to be principal How will you help the students By Amber Dukes succeed? I will help students in every way pos- tephen Ngo will be become prin- sible. I want to place special emphasis cipal when Dr. Eunice Madon re- on ensuring that Steinmetz students are Stires on June 30. A former assistant prepared and successful in attaining their principal at Steinmetz, Mr. Ngo is cur- post-secondary needs and desires. rently the principal of World Language High School How do you feel leaving your cur- The local school council (LSC) voted rent school? to offer Mr. Ngo a four-year contract on When I started at World Language March 29. A large crowd in Room 122 High School three years ago, the school participated in that intense evening, the was on Level 3, academic warning- final day of the LSC’s two-month prin- probation. I moved my school to Level cipal selection process. 2-good standing within two years. To- Although I am the student representa- day, we are no longer on probation. My tive on the LSC and Principal Madon is school was one of only three schools in also a member of the LSC, by the LSC the entire district to move off of proba- rules we were not allowed to vote for the tion. While I will miss my students a new principal. great deal, I feel secure that the systems The ten members of the LSC who and structures I implemented are in Talent Show voted on the principal selection motion place to assure continued student suc- Pages 8-10 were teacher Megan Hedges, attendance cess there. PHOTO BY SHANNA ARCEO administrator Renalto Roldan, student services clerk Sgt. Gerry Frank, two com- How will you get involved in extra- munity members, and five parents. curricular activities? Before the LSC voted, Mr. Ngo and PHOTO BY AMBER DUKES I’ll encourage staff to promote as Stephen Ngo is congratulated by Steinmetz principa Dr. Eunice Madon, assistant principals Don Mendro and who will retire on June 30. many extra-curricular activities as pos- Lynne Nuzzo, the other finalists chosen sible. I’ll also become directly involved by the LSC, answered five questions submitted met in closed session for an hour. They returned with some of these activities. For example, as by teachers, students, and parents. I read the to the room filled with more than 100 people, an assistant principal at Steinmetz, I spent nu- questions to each of the candidates. Then several waiting anxiously for the decision, and made merous Saturdays running with Mr. Dowling’s people gave 1-minute speeches in favor of their their motion to offer Mr. Ngo the contract. marathon team on the lakefront. Admittedly, candidates. once they surpassed running three miles a ses- In his responses, Mr. Ngo said he would in- Mr. Ngo’s vision for Steinmetz sion, my duties shifted more towards providing crease the attendance rate by studying the data The Star asked Mr. Ngo several questions water support for the team. and offering incentives to students. He said he about his vision for Steinmetz, his work and One of my greatest joys was attending the All City Art Winners would move the school off of probation and school experience, his personal background, and LTAB Poetry Slam at IIT. Steinmetz won first Pages 12-14 make Steinmetz so attractive that people would his current interests. place that year. Shadell Jameson’s reading was ART BY DESTINY CARPENTER choose to move to the neighborhood because of The following is our email interview. absolutely electrifying. Messrs. Hood and Sloan the school. He said that the absence of a full- can attest that my wallet was damaged on more time nurse at Steinmetz was unacceptable. He Why do you want to be the principal? than one occasion, buying pizza for the team said that his school has a clinic, with a nurse and I want to lead the school as it goes forward. down at Columbia College those many Satur- doctor serving the students. He said Steinmetz Our school district is asking for unprecedented days. I look forward to it again! could “look outside the box” of CPS staffing to changes and higher expectations. I would like to obtain a full-time nurse. continue growing Steinmetz towards these ends. Will you continue DEAR (drop everything Several of Mr. Ngo’s former students testi- I love Steinmetz. It was my home for twelve years and read)? fied of his caring and concern for them. One as both a teacher and administrator. To sum I need to see the data on DEAR. Has it im- former student shared how Mr. Ngo called him it up, I want to be the principal of Steinmetz proved student reading? Pre- to post-testing, have regularly after he found out the student’s mother so that the school can continue offering every expected gains been met? Literacy strategies and had cancer. student the upmost opportunity to be success- college readiness skills are essential to student Following the questioning of the candidates ful in life. academic success. If you look at the Common Sports: Pages 15-16 and the public participation, the LSC members Core for example, it’s all skill-based. We must PHOTO BY MIGUEL VARELA Continued on Page 10 Future teacher wins Golden Perfect attendance! Apple scholarship At the Golden Apple By Lupita Ayala Summer Institutes, Stepha- nie will spend six weeks of tephanie Tapia is one of every summer vacation, for 135 Illinois seniors cho- four years after high school sen for the Golden Apple graduation, immersing her- S Zaina Alquero, Dr. Eunice Madon, principal, Justyna Szczech Scholars. The Golden Apple self in the ins and outs of

scholarship is a high competi- teaching, according to the PHOTOS COURTESY LAURA JIMENEZ tive program for students in- Golden Apple website, www. terested in a teaching career. goldenapple.org. he first se- “I want to become a teach- “I want to teach what mester perfect er to make a difference,” said I have learned,” Stepha- Tattendance Stephanie, who plans to teach Stephanie Tapia nie said. “The teacher who celebration included pre-kindergarten. “I didn’t PHOTO BY JASMINE COLON inspires me the most is snacks and drawings think I would win the schol- Stephanie with financial support Ms. Mark. I want to teach for prizes for all stu- arship, because there were a lot of for tuition at DePaul University, young children because they’re dents who achieved people competing from the state as well as extensive supplementary more open-minded than older perfect attendance. of Illinois.” education, classroom experience, kids. They seem more interested More than a dozen The program will provide mentoring and peer networking. in learning.” • Roberto Alarcon, Claudia Radek students won valuable prizes. • 2 Letters to the Star Happy Persian New Year A girlfriend... Touching ‘Everyone essay should be February 15, 2012 Dear Star, proud’ I just spent 1st period DEAR March 16, 2012 reading the latest issue of the Star Dear Steinmetz Star staff, and all I have to say is “wow.” Thanks for the update on The staff is doing an amazing job. what’s happening at Steinmetz I loved the comic in this issue. and the latest issue of the Star. It

PHOTO BY JORDANY MARTINEZ It might be cool to have more really does look like a real news- Dear Star, comic strips to show off our paper. Everyone should be proud. I’d like a chance to respond to fabulous artistic side and more All best, the February photo opinion ques- Steinmetz humor. Hef tion, ‘What do you want in a girl- Thanks for running the “Be Hugh M. Hefner, Playboy friend?’ True to Your School” essay con- Editor-in-Chief I want a girl who is smart and test. I love this idea and hope it pretty, can take a joke, and doesn’t gets some students motivated to get mad at what I do. write about our successes here More letters from Deshawn Horton, freshman And lastly, Charnae Turner’s readers on Page 4 essay was so touching. I got a bit choked up while I was reading it. Have something to a dish, symbolizing rebirth Keep up the tremendous say? Email us: By Mojgan Majdzadeh, teacher samanu - a sweet pudding made from wheat germ, work. Steinmetzstarnews@ symbolizing affluence Sincerely, gmail.com or years, my students and colleagues have asked senjed - the dried fruit of the oleaster tree, symbol- Megan Hedges, teacher me about my Persian (Iranian) New Year called izing love & fertelity FNowruz. Work kept me busy, but I planned to sīr - garlic, symbolizing medicine New school is great, but make it work this year since it is long time overdue. sīb - apples, symbolizing beauty and health I celebrate my new year on the first day of spring somaq - sumac berries, symbolizing (the color of) (March 20 or 21 depending on the calendar year). It sunrise still missing Steinmetz is like any other new year, lots of preparation for the serkeh - vinegar, symbolizing age and patience. March 16, 2012 were a few staircases and three special table setting (above), parties to make or to go, Other items on the table may include: Hey Steinmetz, floors. Over here we have these and visiting family and friends. sonbol - Hyacinth (flower) Hope you haven’t forgotten things called wings. This year, my new year was at 00:14 in the morn- sekkeh - Coins, representative of wealth traditional about me. My new school and the I’m learning a lot in my classes, ing on Tuesday, March 20. Due to the different time Iranian pastries such as baghlava, toot, naan-nokhodchi band have got me tied up for the and I’ve improved in biology, math, zone, I called my parents in Iran on Tuesday while aajeel - dried nuts, berries and raisins past month or so. English, and even music. Though driving back home from school. I would have been lit candles (enlightenment and happiness) Here at Maine West I’m en- Maine West is a school for those disowned if I hadn’t done that. On March 19 I went a mirror (symbolizing cleanness and honesty) joying the school spirit. Everyone who are hard working and smart, to a friend’s house in Glencoe, joining another 20-plus decorated eggs, sometimes one for each member is very welcoming and nice, and there are still trouble makers here people eating and dancing. This year was very sepecial of the family (fertility) my new friends are supportive and I am one of them. But it’s al- since the weather was really springlike. a bowl of water with goldfish (life within life). This and thoughtful. We don’t have a right because all my teachers love I wish all Iranians a happy and healthy new year, as goldfish is also “very ancient and meaningful” and uniform, so I don’t have to worry me. well as all staff and students a very happy and healthy with Zoroastrian connection.[68] about not coming to school dressed I really can’t describe to you how Spring. The following information will help you un- rosewater, believed to have cleansing powers properly. We also don’t have to have badly I miss Steinmetz. I miss being derstand my new year. the national colors, for a patriotic touch our bags checked, we just walk in able to come late to school, and get Nowruz is the name of the Iranian New Year and it a holy book (e.g., the Avesta, Qur’an, Bible, Torah, through any door and have a lot of away with small things like turning also widely referred to as the Persian New Year. or Kitáb-i-Aqdas) and/or a poetry book (almost always freedom. We can eat in class, and in homework late. I especially miss There is a traditional table setting called Haft Sîn either the Shahnameh or the Divan of Hafiz) our cafeteria is amazing. my friends and the basketball team. for Nowruz. That includes seven items starting with Based on Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, (Re- At first getting used to the I’m hoping to join the Warriors ‘S’ in the Persian alphabet. treived http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nowruz#Haft_S. building was difficult, because it’s team next year if I’m good enough. The Haft Sīn items are: C4.ABn on 02-21-2012). not like where at Steinmetz there Sincerely, Jonelle Babula sabzeh - wheat, barley or lentil sprouts growing in • Lisette Mendez, junior Wonderful donation Steinmetz Star

By Beth Zaluba, teacher Steinmetz Academic Centre, 3030 N. Mobile, Chicago IL 60641 773-534-3030, Star office x25241; [email protected] he music depart- www.steinmetzac.com (“Steinmetz Newspaper” link) ment received a very Tunusual donation of Principal: Dr. Eunice Madon materials for the fifth period Assistant principals: Mr. Jaime Jaramillo, Mr. Donald Mendro, Ms. Lynne Nuzzo orchestra. Thirty-one violin Budget director: Mr. Paul Chase; Star adviser: Ms. Sharon Schmidt cases, bows, and cakes of rosin were donated in March Editors-in-Chief: Tetyana Prannychuk, Crystal Phillips by Jan Ellen Graves, a pro- ducer from the redtwist the- Journalism class reporters, Room 333, 5th period: Ricardo Arroyo, Anyssa Ascencio, atre (yes, all lower case) in Lupita Ayala, Mateusz Baranowicz, Javier Barrera, Lucas Burrell, Destiny Carpenter, Rogers Park. Jasmine Colon, Brigette Diaz, Haywood Gandy, Desiree Garcia, Cristia Hart, Nay- Why, do you ask, does eli Hernandez, Briana Mitchell, Filip Palka, Agnieszka Pasterczyk, Crystal Phillips, someone have 31 empty Monserrat Rafael, Yazmin Ramirez, Brittany Robertson, Antonio Rodriguez, Juan cases to give away? Rodriguez, Chantesha Rogers, Jonathan Ruiz, Armin Skenderovic, Jazalynne Velez

The redtwist presented PHOTO BY MIGUEL VARELA “Opus” from December Celimar Lopez poses with a new case, bow, and rosin cake. Newspaper club reporters: Shanna Arceo, Marilu Atempa, Kiara Davidson, Jennifer through January. The show, Czahor, Judy Czahor, Lauren DeJesus, Javier Delgado, Amber Dukes, Wendy Flores, by Jason W. Gerace, comes to a climax hair received new bows and students Amanda Gidney, Julia Gonzalez, Alexa Hamer, Tavonna Howard, Malica Lacy, Jor- at every performance when a valuable without an individual cake of rosin in dany Martinez, Tabitha Morales, Ruby Perez, Gabriela Pineda, Desiree Reyes, Maria violin is smashed to pieces! During the their case now have one. Some of the Sanchez, Nailya Sanchez, Saremm Saenz, Julian Salgado, John Shelby, Shem Stasik, run, the violins that were in the cases cases were used to replace older cases Jeremy Valentin, Jalan Veal, Miguel Varela, Quijna Walton, Salma Zaghdoud got destroyed. Ms. Graves looked for the that had broken hinges or latches. The least expensive violins she could buy for rest of the cases will be used to safely The Newspaper Clubmeets on Thursdays after school in Room 333. the show. As it turns out, a ‘kit’ includ- store the rest of the bows and provide ing the violin, case, bow, and rosin was new cases as the old ones wear out. The Steinmetz Starwelcomes letters to the editor, corrections, comments, and bylined cheaper to buy than individual violins. Special thanks to violinist Barbara articles from all members of the Steinmetz community. I picked up the donations on March Farley who put Ms. Graves in touch 27 and immediately they were put into with Ms. Zaluba to make this donation Printing: Mr. Hugh Hefner’s June 2011 donation to the Star covers the costs of use. Students whose bows needed new possible.• printing the paper at NewsWeb Corporation, Chicago. •

2 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star Opinion 3 What do you want to tell the next principal?

“Good luck. Steinmetz has way more awe- someness than other schools. Have fun, you’ll be great if you do. Keep up the involvement in INTERVIEW BY BRIGETTE DIAZ INTERVIEW & PHOTO BY JALAN VEAL PHOTO BY JEREMY VALENTIN INTERVIEW & PHOTO the school.” INTERVIEW & PHOTO BY QUIJNA WALTON BY JALAN VEAL “I expect the new principal to pro- Justyna Szczech “Say ‘bye-bye’ to the green “I would like to say to the vide us with a better lunch and more freshman “Don’t expand the school shirts. If we have to have the “It’s time to change new principal — good privileges and stop lunch interven- day. Put more money into longer day, don’t just make the some rules.” luck and make a good INTERVIEW & PHOTO tion.” BY JALAN VEAL sports and sports equip- classes longer. Give us some- Guadalupe Santana difference in our world.” Alexis Castrejon, freshman ment.” thing fun, like a book club.” freshman Kamari Joiner Cody Torres, freshman Taneisha Grimes, freshman freshman

INTERVIEW BY JASMINE COLON “Dear Mr. Ngo, I am happy PHOTO BY JEREMY VALENTIN that you are chosen to be the “I want the new principal to be nice, sta- new principal. I can honestly “We need better sports equipment, like uniforms for “Steinmetz welcomes you. Don’t be too strict. Don’t ble, and kind. I don’t expect much. I just say that Steinmetz high school football and volleyball. We also need new instruments get too stressed. Understand and get to know the want to be happy with whatever makes is good. It’s not like what others for band. The ones we have now are old and rusty.” students.” the school a better environment. I’d like say about the school” Jonathan Eustaquio, Javier Delgado, sophomores Danielli Perez, Patsy Dominguez, Stephanie Muñoz the new principal to bring more support Nicolette Yancy, freshman sophomores for student athletes. I’m happy with whatever choice of principal we have, as long as seniors get 8th period lunch as well.” Montrell Block, junior “I like the change in principal because it’ll be something different for the school. I’d like a better uniform (a new color), less strictness regarding tardiness, detentions cut down, and no lunch inter- INTERVIEW & PHOTO BY DENZEL BROWN vention. I would like to see INTERVIEW & PHOTO BY LUCAS BURRELL “Welcome to Steinmetz. You’ll see the new principal provide “If we have to have the longer day use the many things that will aggravate INTERVIEW BY JASMINE COLON more choices — more elec- extra time to make the day enjoyable. How you, but at the end of the day PHOTO BY TAVONNA HOWARD tives, more workshops, and about open gym or going outside? Connect you’ll see it’s worth it for the sake “I’m indifferent about the change more exciting new classes with students.” of your students.” in principals because I like Dr. to choose from.” INTERVIEW & PHOTO Matthew Maggit, junior Priscilla Alicea, junior Madon — she is very funny. As BY JASMINE COLON Lisette Mendez, junior long as the principal is willing to make everyone happy in the “I would like “What I expect from the “I expect the new school, I’ll be happy. I’d like to the new princi- new principal is some- principal to be have 8th period lunch. That’s all pal to promote a one who promotes the around and in- I’m really worried about going safe, interdisci- arts, is consistent, fair, volved with the into my senior year, especially plinary creative hard working, truly loves students and staff with the crazy overtime. I’d like and progressive working with students, members. Also, I to see my new principal always environment.” and remembers what its want him to find a roaming the halls, interacting with Alex Sutphen like to be a teacher.” better way for stu- all the students and being dedi- teacher Jennifer Bates dents to minimize cated to become an influence on DIAZ & RAMIREZ teacher their debts.” Patrice Mikolajczak, staff us during our high school career.” INTERVIEW BY YASMIN RAMIREZ INTERVIEW BY BRIGETTE DIAZ PHOTO BY BRIGETTE DIAZ PHOTO BY YASMIN RAMIREZ Dominic Masciopinto, junior Underclassmen: Look here! This is about us ... By Jennie Ann Czahor sport, or some other after school activity (night school, any- believe is going to help will actually be a detriment to the one?). Think about how late some will be staying for practices learning experience. It seems as if those who are trying to t’s been mandated that all Chicago Public Schools will have and games, and how exhausting that will be. Also, those who enforce these proposed longer school days haven’t sat in a class a longer school day next year. This means that, along with get a lot of homework, such as IB and AP students, will have boring enough to fry your brain without wanting to get up Igetting out at a later time, classes could either be lengthened, less time to complete their assignments, especially if they have and leave. That’s exactly what some students are going to do. or another class could be added on to the Steinmetz schedule after school activities. You can’t lie and say that students will want to be in school next year. Some think that it’s a great idea, and that it will Still don’t care? Next year’s seniors (and the seniors in years that long without ditching or just not coming to school all enhance students’ education, but in reality, it’s a detriment to follow) aren’t going to have the privilege of 8th period lunch, together if they aren’t going to consider tolerating a longer to the lives of a majority of students and staff for a number which is a tradition that Steinmetz has been carrying on for school day. You could argue that those who resist change are of reasons. many years. Seniors in the past have used that time to go to a destined to fail, but, c’mon, we’re teenagers for God’s sake. To begin, these students and faculty members have families job, stay home and help with siblings, complete assignments, You could tell us that the world is ending and we’re still not that they need to get home to, and if these people live far away, and do their graduation requirement of 40 service learning going to believe you, even if meteors are headed straight for it will be even later in the day that they get to see their children, hours. So even though it might seem like a small thing to the earth, for the sole fact that we live in our own little bubble spouses, siblings, and friends. They will be missing out on the many people, taking away that lunch period would actually of solidarity. A teenager is a selfish creature, and even though quality family time that government officials, like the ones harm some of the students. The other lunch periods will be some of us might drag our sorry butts to school every day just proposing the ides, tend to stress so often. Some students are shortened, too, so that half will be for eating and half will so we can get our work done to get our teachers off of our parents, as well, and need time to be there for their children. be for an “intervention.” People use lunch to do homework, backs, it will be a snowy day in hell before any of us would These people also have other jobs that they want to get to, anyway, and eating too fast is actually bad for your health. say “Yes, I’d love a longer school day.” and if the school day is lengthened, they will either need to Those who are proposing this idea can’t put themselves If you want to do something about it, go to http://www. push back their hours, or work less. into a student’s shoes. They also don’t take into account the ipetitions.com/petition/steinmetz/ and sign the petition. If you aren’t intrigued yet, think about if you are in a club, mind-set of certain students. They won’t see that what they Read more on Page Four. • March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 3 4 Star News Star Letters continued from Page 2 ‘Young Activists’ protest Dropout rate will increase longer day, less-lunch plan March 13 February 29, 2012 Dear Star, Dear Mayor Emanual, I’ve heard that school is going to be an I disagree with the idea of having an extra hour longer next year. I think that additional hour of school. Many students it’s a really bad idea because more students have responsibilities. With having to stay will cut and drop out. I know I have would in school longer, students can’t take care dropped out. That’s way too much time. of things they need to do. Sincerely, Students are not going to be able to Sabrina Bernardi, senior pay much attention for that long, they’re not going to be eager to learn. Attendance will decrease rapidly because students do Freshman Maria Sanchez, junior Jennie Czahor, freshman Jalan Veal, junior Judy Czahor, March 22 have to do other things, not just school. (not pictured) Amanda Gidney and Quijna Walton formed ‘The Young Activists of Steinmetz.’ Dear Star, Many parents don’t agree with your deci- I don’t want to have longer school days. sion, it’s too much stress to deal with for aria Sanchez was so outraged by the with an “intervention” period. (See page 17 of What’s the point of having a longer school the students. Students have to work on the CPS requirement for the longer our March-April web edition for the schedule). day? Everyone is already doing all they can. parents’ time, if the parent goes to work Mday and Steinmetz’s plan for deal- The Young Activists of Steinmetz started a I’m also getting tired of these uniforms. the student does need to be home. ing with the extra time, that she began a group, petition drive against this plan (more than 300 Some schools don’t have to wear uniforms. This idea is pathetic; it’s too much. the “Young Activists of people have signed I don’t like when the staff of our school Students are going to start cutting classes Steinmetz.” “It’s outrageous. We have to be in paper petitions or talks about “you can’t wear those shoes in and leaving school. The dropout rate will While schools have school an extra hour next year, online) and they met the school you have to go home.” I might as increase because students won’t want to stay no choice but to com- but Steinmetz is planning to cut our with assistant princi- well wear them if I have them on my feet. in school that long. Its’ too tiring. School ply with Mayor Rahm lunch in half!” — Maria Sanchez pal Jaime Jaramillo. Somebody needs to do something about won’t be that interesting anymore. Emanual’s demand for a The Young Activ- this stuff that is happening. I think people should take this in con- longer day next year, individual schools were ists represent several different academic place- Sincerely, sideration, think about this idea, and stand given some choice in how to use the extra time. ments — ROTC, AVID, MYP, IB and regular Markisha Walker, freshman up for what they believe in. The plan created by Steinmetz adminis- tracks — but they share a comon concern: Sincerely, trators calls for an end to senior 8th period Steinmetz’s plan will not meet their needs. Delilah Perez, freshman lunch, longer class periods for each of the eight To sign the petition, go to http://www. periods, and a shortened lunch period, split ipetitions.com/petition/steinmetz.• Seniors respond to Feb. Star research project article By Alex Grezlik By Tatiana Lara By Jessica Molina By Daisy Medrano By Javier Flores

can honestly say that I agree ome students are just com- ome seniors have agreed that n my opinion in a way the senior he research paper is a tougher with Ricardo Arroyo in saying plaining too much because it doing a research paper isn’t research paper is a good idea to requirement than the rest of Ithat the Senior English Research Scould have been worse. Doing Snecessary because we do es- Imost students who plan to go to Tthe graduation requirements, paper should not be a graduation a research paper with a lot of time says all year long. A research paper college. It will help them prepare on but it isn’t that hard. requirement. This paper, which in- and plenty of help from the teachers should be required for both juniors what they will be facing in college. Sure, many students had prob- cludes a lot of criteria, is very stress- should not be that difficult. and seniors. Not only does it help Although doing a research paper lems picking out their topic but once ful and time consuming. Through Maybe it’s just laziness. In the them become better writers, but of six to eight pages might not be you having a topic and your sources the 25-plus notecards, citations, world everyone is going to face a they will be prepared to do a paper easy, in a way we do need it to know with your outline planned out makes reading, outlining, and revisions, I lot of difficulty if they just com- in college. (Continued on p. 17) that in college they will be asking for it way more easier. Writing a six- just couldn’t take it. But I did get it plain about a simple research paper. more. (Continued on p. 17) page paper goes more easier when done, but only because I knew that (Continued on p. 17) you have a lot of information and if i didn’t get this paper done, the time to get it done. It shouldn’t have dream of walking across the stage at You can find Pages 17-18 of the March-April Star been that complicated. (Continued my high school’s graduation would on the Steinmetz website: www.steinmetzac.com on p. 17) be no more. (Continued on p. 17) Drama to perform ‘The Search for Delicious’ on May17 & 18

Assistant director, senior Geremy Francisco Bolanos, Charles Arrieta, Luis Macit, and Janet King practice a song. House and teacher Lynda Meunier Tavonna Howard, Luis Macit, and Justyna Szczech during warm-ups.

PHOTO BY ALEXA HAMER PHOTO BY SAREMM SAENZ PHOTO BY ALEXA HAMER

Ms Meunier said. “I am very heartened by the enthusiasm so who is also part of the cast, coaches us. By Javier Barrera many people express for having an active drama program at “Actors are learning lines and learning blocking right now Steinmetz.” (where to stand and move when you are on stage),” Ms. or the first time in years, we have a drama club and we’re In rehearsals we begin with warm-ups to loosen up. We Meunier said. “They are doing a great job creating the char- getting ready for our first play “The Search for Delicious,” stretch arms and legs, and shake our bodies. We stretch our acters and the world of the play.” Fwhich will be performed in the small auditorium (Room tongues by trying to touch our noses, chins, and ears. We Over spring break, Ms. Meunier and several students 122) on May 17 and May 18. French teacher Lynda Meunier stretch our cheek muscles by pretending we’re chewing a big worked to create sets of a village, an orchard, and the inside sponsors the club. piece of gum. We also do tongue twisters. of a castle. To build the scenery they used cardboard, PVC pipe, “I am surprised by the wealth of students and teachers When working with “The Search for Delicious” script, we 2 x 4’s, different textiles such as muslin and felt, newspapers who have offered to help with different aspects of the play,” try to act out our parts by ourselves. Counselor Kim Diaz, and lots of duct tape. •

4 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star News 5 Dominic Masciopinto saves neighbors from fire teinmetz and the entire Chicago public school erybody out.” system honored junior Dominic Masciopinto There wasn’t any major damage apparent at Sfor his heroic actions of March 23. the neighboring house later Friday, but Brantley That night when Dominic saw an abandoned was still grateful. building on fire, he instinctively ran to help his neigh- “I want to thank him. I could have still been bors who were next door to the fire sleeping,” he said. “I struggled with the gate,” he told Steinmetz staff The two victims of the fire at the vacant building at a faculty meeting. “So I hopped it. I pounded on were not immediately identified. the window. I didn’t hear anything so I kicked down Fire Department District Chief Timothy Sampey the door. I helped the people get to safety.” said the fire appears to have started on the second In addition to the hero’s welcome he received floor of the 2½-story frame building, where the bodies at school on the Monday following his rescue, Dr. were found. The fire also spread to an attic. Madon and the staff gave him a standing ovation at A police source said a barbecue grill was found the faculty meeting and presented him with a TV inside the vacant building, and officials are investi- as a token of thanks. Dr. Madon reminded the staff gating whether it played a role in the fire. that not only is Dominic a hero, he is an exceptional Dominic’s father, Dino, said squatters had pulled student and athlete — on the football team, a bas- up boards to get into the building and would sleep ketball team most valuable player, on the track team, in the back. dance team, and honor roll. “We’ve been trying to get the alderman and bank CPS administrators honored Dominic at the to tear it down, but they wouldn’t do it,” Masciopinto PHOTO COURTESY SUBSTANCE NEWSPAPER monthly, televised Chicago Board of Education said. “Sometimes the cops would come and kick them Dominic Masciopinto was honored at the March 28 Board of Education meeting at 125 S. out and they go right back inside.” meeting. Clark St. His father and Dr. Madon appeared with him at the meeting, which was televised and shown on cable TV several times in March and April. The firefighters suffered minor injuries and were Teen may have saved lives where 2 died taken to Our Lady of Resurrection Hospital. The Sunday, March 25 Chicago Sun-Times featured Domi- p.m. on the 2400 block of North Marmora. He went over to • nic in a report about the fire and printed his picture on page the house right next door, where he saw the fire had apparently 19. The story by Stefano Espisito follows: spread to the back. Not everyone has a chance to be in the Two people were found dead inside a vacant building that “Off of instinct, I was knocking on windows, pounding on Chicago Sun-Times, like Dominic ... caught fire Friday night on the Northwest Side, and two firefighters doors, nobody was answering the door so I knocked the door in,” but anyone at Steinmetz were injured fighting the blaze. said Dominic, a junior at Steinmetz High School. can be in the Star! But it’s possible the injury toll might have been higher if it Dominic helped three people — including a sleeping Charles Do you know a student or staff member you’d like wasn’t for neighbor Dominic Masciopinto, 17. Brantley, 18, his aunt and grandmother — get out of the house. to see featured? Email us with your tip Dominic said he saw smoke and flames shooting 15-feet into “He came and got my grandma and then my grandma came or write the story yourself. the air from the second floor of the vacant building around 8 and got me,” Brantley said. “That’s when we tried to clear ev- [email protected] Seniors prepare for prom and other fun events

By Destiny Carpenter Monserrat Rafael and Jean-Nicka

t’s that time of year again — prom! A one-day event that high Biasbas created prom dresses made school girls dream about all their lives. I “Prom is a night where you go to enjoy the experience,” 2012 of duct tape. They modeled them on graduate Larissa Labon said. “The beautiful clothes are just a plus.” To some girls this is an event that has no limit when it comes to April 10 for the senior assembly. spending. Others choose not to go because dresses are expensive and INTERVIEW BY JUAN RODRIGUEZ money is an issue. But there are opportunities available for females “I entered the Duct Tape Prom Dress Contest. In the who are interested in being fabulous or having the dress of their beginning I didn’t want to join the contest, but then Ms. dreams free for prom night. Szulkowski told me it would be a fun experience. It took me over a month to make the dress. I felt uncomfortable Free dresses wearing it, like a robot because I could hardly walk. I had In the beginning of the school year there were competitions open to ask for help to put my shoes on. I feel proud of myself to all senior girls. One was the curvy girl competition where you for making the dress because it’s something that not every- design your own prom dress, send it in and if your design is picked one does. I designed the dress short in the front and long you win your prom dress, two prom tickets and many more amenities. in the back — a ‘high-low’ dress. I don’t have hope at all of The Glass Slipper Project is an organization that gives away free winning the contest because my dress is nothing compared prom dresses and accessories. to the dresses from previous contests. The winners’ dresses “The Glass Slipper Project collects new and almost-new formal were beautiful and colorful and it seems that they really put dresses and accessories and provides them, free of charge, to students a lot of imagination into them. But people told me that who are unable to purchase their own prom attire,” its website states. my dress is really beautiful, and people don’t believe that “Students do not need to prove any type of financial hardship in order I did it.” Monserrat Rafael to get a dress from us. Seniors Monserrat Rafael, Jean-Nicka Biasbas “The Glass Slipper Project distributes the dresses at the Glass PHOTO COURTESY BERNIE ESHOO Slipper ‘boutiques’ each prom season, where each student receives individual assistance from a volunteer ‘personal shopper’ as she shops for the dress of her dreams.” On Saturday, April 21 and April 28, at McCorkle School, 4421 S. State, the boutique opens at 9:00. Numbers will be handed out prior to opening. Interested girls should check go to the website Tuesday, May 22 www.glassslipperproject.org or call the Glass Slipper Project Hotline at (312) 409-4139.

Many girls overspend on prom Some people are spending an incredible amount of money on prom. Families with teens in the Midwest are expected to spend an average of $700 on prom items such as limos or party buses, tickets, and clothes, according to a survey taken by Visa’s financial education program last month. Last year, the Star reported on a senior who spent $720 just on her appearance for prom: $350 on her dress, $160 on jewelry, $150 on hair, $60 on manicure, pedicure, eyebrows. For more information, see the June 2011 and June 2010 Steinmetz Star PDFs on the school website for pictures and articles about the money students spent. (http://steinmetzac.com/Prod/steinmetzstar. php) Seniors are urged to make smart decisions, spend wisely, and learn how to be fabulous on a budget. •

March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 5 6 Star News Everyone should recycle Teacher enjoys By Ricardo Arroyo students and subject he United States government had not yet By Briana Mitchell passed a law that makes it mandatory to Trecycle. Some states take it upon them- he Star interviewed history selves to set their own recycling laws. In these teacher Tara Brownlee, who states, if the law is not followed it can result in Tis finishing her first year at having to pay fees. Steinmetz. Plastic, paper and cans are common house- Q: What made you come to hold items being recycled in homes. Larger items Steinmetz? like refrigerators and washing machines are usu- A: Steinmetz has a diverse popu- ally just thrown away by people unaware that lation, culturally and academically, they can be recycled. and that interests me. PHOTO BY JALAN VEAL “Most people might not know that picking Students in the recycling club work after school with teachers Q: Why did you leave Prosser? scrap metal is a way of recycling,” senior Omar Steve Goldberg and Tara Dunne on Thursdays. A: My time at Prosser was up. I Martinez said. “Once I pick it up I take it to a was only there for 10 weeks.

scrap metal junk yard and they continue the recycling teacher Tara Dunne said. “This helps keep stuff out Q: How is the first year at Stein- PHOTO BY BRIANA MITCHELL process from there.” of landfills. Recycling makes me feel great and in my metz going? World Studies teacher Tara Brownlee Although scrap metal recycling is taken place out- opinion everyone should be doing it.” A: I enjoy working here. So it’s side of school, there is a recycling club in Steinmetz. With landfills being overly crowded it is highly going great; I wouldn’t want to be whole world, not just one location The school’s recycling club has set up paper recycling encouraged for everyone to start recycling. Even if anywhere else. I have great co-work- or point in time. boxes in all classrooms encouraging students to re- it doesn’t seem like much, one recycled plastic bottle ers, supportive administrators, and Q: If you weren’t teaching World cycle all unwanted or old graded papers. can change a lot. my students are very eager to learn. Studies what subject would you “We recycle paper, cans and plastic bottles,” • Q: How is Steinmetz different teach? from Prosser? A: I would teach English, maybe A: The programming is different. a speech class, or a literature class. Prosser has a vocational component. Q: How long does it usually take Confronting fears in class But the student body is very similar. you to grade papers? Physically, Steinmetz is much larger A: It depends on what it is — By Saremm Saenz than Prosser. tests, essays, class work, quizzes. It Q: What do you think makes you might take 20 to 45 minutes or even n February I had the opportunity stand out from other World Studies a couple of days. to handle the snakes in teacher teachers? Q: What do you do after grading IPaul Bagdonas’s room. Out of A: We all have our own ways in papers and after school? pure curiosity I asked him if I could teaching the subject. That’s what A: I really don’t grade papers at hold them. makes this department so special. home. I get to school early so that I was so nervous at first, but it We all are unique and bring our in- I can spend time with my family was the greatest experience ever. The dividual personalitites to the class- at home. snakes were different. The first one room. Q: What are your hobbies out- I held was smaller than the other Q: When your daughter becomes side of school? one. It was very calm as it wrapped a teenager would you let her come A: I play PS3 NBA 2K12, read around my arm and over my neck. to Steinmetz? a lot of books (mostly non-fiction), Of course I made sure to be careful A: Perhaps, but it’ll be up to her. and I also try different restaurants with it. She might not want her mother at that I see on 190 North. My classmates who came in the Senior Saremm Saenz the same school. I think it’ll be a Q: What type of music do you room were amazed. They thought I great environment for her to learn. listen to? was crazy and brave for holding a Q: What made you want to teach A: I listen to everything — rap, snake but it’s always good to con- faster than the first one I held. tures and a video because it was World Studies? R & B, old school rock & roll, and front your fears. I felt every muscle of her body. my first time ever holding snakes. A: It was chosen for me, but country, but I’m not a big fan of The second snake was very active. Mr. Bagdonas had fed the snake I want to thank Mr. Bagdonas for if I had the option I would have heavy metal and house music. Fa- As soon as she noticed she was out a big rat recently. I felt the bump. such great experience. I’ll never picked World Studies now that I vorites are R Kelly, Michael Jackson, her cage she began moving much I made sure I took lots of pic- forget it. have taught it. I like it because I and Tupac. • have the chance to talk about the • MYP, IB students unite for better future Mikva election work offers good pay, experience

By Judy Czahor

experienced the longest day of my Ilife on March 20, participating in the Mikva Challenge as an election judge. MYP and IB students attended a youth summit with other students from around the city on February 25. I spent nearly 16 hours in my lo- Junior Judy Czahor PHOTO COURTESY BERNIE ESHOO PHOTO BY SALMA ZAGHDOUD cal VFW hall, on an student-student relations, and finally stu- because many were targeting the principals 80-degree day, wishing for salvation from the sheer By Salma Zaghdoud dent-principle relations. for the bad they do instead of looking at boredom that I had to endure. I was placed in student-principal re- them as people who have a job to get done. There were a few perks, though. I received 15 pproximately 30 MYP and IB lations. We shared our stories about our But overall it was an interesting learning service learning hours, $170, and I gained a little students went to Phoenix High experiences with our principal (good and experience. I would like to give a shout out bit of patience, too. Believe it or not, it took a lot ASchool for the Harris Youth Fel- bad). We discussed improvements on how to the MYP freshmen and sophomores, of energy to sit and do nothing for at times 2-hour low Summit on February 25. to build a stronger relation and to our sur- as well as the IB Juniors. You guys were periods, while sitting next to people I didn’t know In this summit we were separated into prise we got to actually discuss all of this amazing. Also, thanks to Ms. Eshoo and or barely knew. four different groups along with other in front of actual principals. It was kind of Ms. Dominguez! And to my IB family in All in all, when the day was done, I was glad to students from different schools to discuss awkward but after a while it was just like division 240! World’s greatest and hardest know that I had guaranteed cash, a comfy bed and issues about how to better our learning having a conversation with one of your working division. I love you guys, espe- a loving puppy waiting for me at home. Would I do environment. The groups consisted of lon- classmates or friends. I personally did not cially Biffle Paulinka Ciepiela. Happy 17th I again? Probably, especially because I now have the ger school days, classroom management, agree with the ideas given by the students, birthday! April 8. • experience and I know what to expect. • 6 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star News 7 Passion and talent impress crowd By Agnes Pasterczyk

assion — something Daniel Saenz “Rocboy” and Josue Salas “Young Spect” have for music P They represent SIPCOE Records. They have a music video, a few tracks, and are planning on coming out with a demo and possibly a clothing line. What started out as a joke in 8th grade became their hobby and now their life. “Behind our music, there’s treasure.” Josue said. A lot of their songs are connected to real life stories and things they have gone through. One can see that they are passionate about music “At the talent show we did ‘Go Hard Or Go as soon as they start speaking about it. It’s their life Home’ and we gave it our best during the per- and dream. They put their hearts and souls into ev- formance. We heard our music playing before erything they do. we thought we were supposed to go on. It was “We shot our music video for ‘Go Hard Or Go unexpected, that’s why it brought out more.” Home’ until 4 a.m. and edited it ourselves,” Daniel Daniel Saenz said. See them on You Tube: youtube.com/officialspect. “I’ve been working on music since I was 13. These boys live and breathe music. With each My brother got me into it since he produces day and each song put out on the Internet, they get music. Musical talent runs through my fam- more recognition. ily and I can see this as becoming a career. I You can get a hold of them through all the social strongly promote no drugs or drinking since networks — Facebook: SIPCOE Records, Twitter: PHOTOS BY MIGUEL VARELA it ruins an artist’s image as well as their body.” One of the biggest crowd-pleasers at the February talent show was the performance of “Go Hard Josue Salas @youngspect (Daniel) @iamonebeatz (Josue). • or Go Home,” an original song by Daniel Saenz and Josue Salas. Some terrific LSC pushes Board of Ed for full-time nurse people you ocal school council (LSC) members have “He said he will look into it,” LSC member entire student body (of nearly 2,000) that been trying all year to obtain a full-time Christopher Swanson reported in an email warrants a full-time nurse. should know Lnurse for students. Currently, our nurse to the Star. Chicago’s many agencies are not budgeting is here only twice a week. In many of their responses, CPS adminis- for health needs of its citizens. Several mental LSC members presented the issue at the trators have suggested that only the ndividual health centers are being closed this year under Board of Education meetings in October and education plans (IEPs) of special education Mayor Rahm Emanual’s budget. January. They even influenced board president students, specifying the need for medicine Steinmetz is not alone in lacking a school David Vitale to come to Steinmetz and meet or other medical services, matter in the issue nurse. According to Chicago Teachers Union with them. He visited the school on Febru- of staffing a nurse. membership numbers, only 160 nurses serve ary 28. LSC members have stressed that it is the over 600 Chicago public schools. • March 23 JROTC Military Ball Breanna Taylor

PHOTOS BY AMANDA GIDNEY By Amanda Gidney

reanna Taylor is goofy and friendly. She also like going shopping on the Bweekends downtown at her favorite store, Forever 21. When she isn’t shopping, Breanna likes to watch scary and funny movies. She is also a hopeless romantic and addicted to texting her friends all day

Seniors Jean-Nicka Biasbas, Saremm Saenz, Dedee Lunjas Sgt. Najee-ullah, Sgt. Ruiz, Sgt. Fernandez long. When she gets out of high school she is ready to let loose and party. PHOTOS BY TAVONNA HOWARD AND SAREMM SAENZ If Breanna was stuck on a desert island Senior Fernando Hernandez and could only bring one thing she would bring a Jewel Osco. And one of her favorite quotes is “May your neighbors respect you; trouble neglect you; angels protect you and Heaven accept you,” made famous by Drake in his song “Shot for Me.”

Seniors Kassandra Badillo, Charnae Turner and Emily Irizarry show Sophomore Zurielis Chajon (jester), senior Dedee Lunjas (princess) senior Christopher the JROTC’s appreciation for counselor Tamara Jabour. Santiago (prince), sophomore Javier Delgado (king), Ashley Aquino (queen) Nikala Kelton

What are Nikala Kelton is funny and smart. She your college Southern Illinois U. interests seniors loves old skol rap music, classical music and plans? to go to SIU, we think it will be a great opportunity for some of today’s most popular tunes. When The Star By Brittany Robertson a new lifestyle and a different way to explore. Some of Nikala attends college in the fall she wants wants to us barely get out of the city. to pledge the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. publish your group of seniors have been accepted to the South- Brittany Ferguson, a student who graduated in 2011 She wants to be a lawyer. good news. ern Illinois University in Carbondale. This report- attends SIU. She says the school is fun and is a party During her free time she likes to watch Email us: Aer, Destiny Carpenter, Andrew Maggit, Shanna school. romantic movies and eat her favorite candy Steinmetz- Arceo, Derek Rice and Frank Bland and others have been Shana Arceo says that she is “super excited” to go and Sugar Babies. Nikala is a dare devil and a starnews@ accepted to the SIU. Not all are certain if they will go she can’t wait to live on campus and meet new people Jesus lover with strong family values. When gmail.com there, however I know I will go. For those of us planning studying the same major. • she does get married she wants kids and a giant dog named Butters.• March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 7 8 Star News February 16 talent show brings out the best

Judges Kiara Davidson, Lucinda Horton, Shardaisha Norwood, Mistress of Ceremonies (MC) Amber Dukes

INTERVIEW BY CRYSTAL PHILLIPS “I performed ‘On the Bright Side’ by Never Shout Never. I sang in front of my dad for the first time. I was nervous backstage and then when I got INTERVIEW BY BRITTANY ROBERTSON up to sing, I wasn’t anymore. I “I performed ‘Don’t Stop Till You Get know the song by heart and it Enough’ by the king of pop, Michael has meaning to me. I thought Jackson. He inspires me to push for- I was going to do worse than ward till I get enough. The thing that I did. I tried to back out at the made me want to sing and dance the INTERVIEW BY MATT BARANOWICZ INTERVIEW BY FILIP PALKA last minute but my friend mo- most was the fact that I’m not afraid “I became one of the MCs, along “I was an MC with Destiny Car- tivated me.” to do anything. I wanted to dance and with Brittany Robertson and Am- penter and Amber Dukes. I con- Sarah Landor, sophomore show others how I can do anything that ber Dukes. I had to try out and tributed enthusiasm and the crowd I put my mind to. I got my attire for my the get picked to host. The cool was very responsive to my actions. performance from a Halloween store.” part of the whole thing was that I tried to make the show enjoyable Judy Lobello, sophomore we got to do what we wanted to for everyone and not boring. Next “I performed ‘De Parranda,’ a song do, mostly act goofy. The people time I would change the transition I wrote that talks about meeting who are interested in trying out period in each performance. My up with friends and what happens for a host should have confidence favorite act was Bernette Lewis be- when you hang out with them. I in themselves, have fun, and make cause she sang one of my favorite chose this song because it relates the audience laugh.” songs and performed it well.” to people’s lives and it talks about Destiny Carpenter, senior Brittany Robertson, senior partying and that’s what people like to hear. I can’t guarantee becoming famous, but if for some reason one of my songs becomes a big hit then I will be happy and I will be on top with other known artist. I choose to do the performance because I INTERVIEW BY ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ & JAVIER BARERRA am a senior and I wanted to leave a good impression of myself. I did the performance in Spanish because I wanted to try something new. I made history in Steinmetz because no one had ever rapped in Spanish like I did. I am planning on releasing an album around 2012 or 2013 and I am also planning on releasing a Antiona Thompson music video of live performances. I didn’t feel nervous. I felt like it was “Unbreakable” a normal routine. I had a lot of confidence and did what I had to do. I didn’t have to practice at all because I had all the songs in my head Leonard Strickland, Carlos Borges, “El mar y cielo” ‘Ma Cherie Amour’ already I want to dedicate my performance to Lara.” Jorge Hernandez, senior

INTERVIEW BY BRIGETTE DIAZ “The first song was ‘Jealous of My Boogie,’ the second one was ‘Show Me How You Burlesque.’ A lot of people were impressed of my legs and my ability to dance on heels. I wasn’t shy, except at the beginning, because I thought I was going to fall with the wings. I hadn’t practiced with the heels and wings. We started practicing in November, once a INTERVIEW BY JASMINE COLON month. I started making the wings a month before the talent show. I “I performed “I’m Yours” by Jason Miraz. bought the outfit. I’m thankful for all the people who cheered for me, I felt like I should show the school my and were there on this wonderful and special moment. Also thanks talent. The last time I recall preforming in to Ms. Gerleve for helping me build my wings, and a special thanks front of an audience was in the 5th grade to my burlesque girls — Alicia, Bere, Sabrina, and Jessenia. Thank and I sang in my school’s talent show. I you girls for making my dream come true. Never stop dreaming, performed “Like You” by Ciara and Bow don’t be scared to fly up high and risk a fall, just live your life, and Wow. Singing is my ultimate talent.” be happy, be yourself. Gonzalo Salgado, senior Diamond Vasquez, sophomore

8 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star News 9 Students and staff perform, thanks to Russo

INTERVIEW BY CRYSTAL PHILLIPS

“I preformed ‘Me, Myself and Time,’ by Demi Lavato, though that was not my original choice, which was ‘Unfaithful’ by Ri- hanna. But I was more com- INTERVIEW BY CRYSTAL PHILLIPS INTERVIEW BY JAZALYNNE VELEZ fortable singing Demi Lavato “I sang ‘Simple and Clean’ and I “We decided to do a belly dance to a song by Shakira. We were excited to perform. We knew we would do just fine since ‘Unfaithful’ would’ve been danced at the end of the show. Being because we’re best friends. It was Ms. Russo’s idea to put Richie and Walter in the talent show, so thanks to Ms. controversial. I performed ‘Me, in the talent show was a spontaneous Russo for getting the staff involved. The crowd loved it.” Myself and Time’ before at my thought. Overall it was fun. If you Kassandra Badillo & Emily Irizarry, seniors old school. This song has a lot of have a talent, please show it.” meaning to me since right when Li Nguyen, junior I heard it, it described me and what I was going through at that “I sang ‘Daddy’s time. Since I was in a different Little Girl.’ I environment, my preformance thought about wasn’t as good as I expected. But this song a lot I just sing to pass the time. Per- because it relates forming is not any part of my to me so much future career.” since my dad Dino Masciopinto left, too. I felt sophomore great singing because I was sharing something important to me with lots of INTERVIEW BY HAYWOOD GANDY people. I didn’t “My sister and I performed “I started off nervous, which really prepare ‘Someone Like You’ by was why I wore my sun glasses, to do this song Adele. I wasn’t nervous at all. but eventually I warmed up because I already INTERVIEW BY MONSERRAT RAFAEL INTERVIEW BY CHANTEESHA ROGERS I was actually very excited to to the crowd and I was able knew a lot about it. I just practiced a little “I sang ‘Dance for You’ by Be- be on stage again especially to remove them. I was happy with my boyfriend for a few days before yonce. I knew I was going to do after my slight mishap at the that my sister was with me, be- the talent show. I wasn’t scared to sing well. I’ve performed at the talent Holiday Concert, so I want- cause she’s my harmony, and I because I am used to singing in front of show since freshman year. I knew ed to be able to redeem my- don’t think I could have done a big crowd. One of my friends and my how people would react to me. I self. Though I would have it without her. I just wouldn’t boyfriend gave me the idea to join the tal- was not nervous. As soon as they been okay performing solo, be able to do a solo without ent show. I had so much fun. I would love said my name, the crowd rushed it’s always a great experience another voice. I would like to do this again in the next talent show” up there. I felt good at the end of to sing in harmony with my to do a solo, though, because Krystal Hernandez, junior my performance.” better half. We split the song I want to be a professional INTERVIEW BY ARMIN SKENDEROVIC Bernette Lewis, junior evenly so that we both had singer one day, and I suppose “My previous performing in our time to shine.” you need to start somewhere. both dance and rapping helped Judy Czahor, junior I would have sung something me with the nervous aspect of more upbeat, like something performing under pressure. In by Tina Turner.” the near future I hope to see Jennie Czahor, junior myself performing and getting my name more out there. I performed ‘I Have a Dream.’ The Talent Show photos: message sent out with this rap Amanda Gidney, Shanna is you can always follow your Arceo, Crystal Phillips, Tanya dreams, and only you can make Prannychuk, Saremm Saenz, them happen. You have the key Chuck Bezold ‘I’m Going Back’ Miguel Varela, Quijna Walton to the doors of your future.” Dominic Masciopinto junior

INTERVIEW BY BRIANA MITCHELL

“We performed ‘Bloodline 3.0’ and ‘Closer To My Dreams.’ We were excited because we knew it was going to be our best performance ever. Before we perform we pray. If we could change anything about our performance it would be having more time to rehearse. The performance would have been better. Last year we did very well, but we felt a lack of accomplishment so we did it again this year and rocked it. We got together by battling each other and we liked each other’s style. INTERVIEW BY DESTINY CARPENTER INTERVIEW BY CHANTESHA ROGERS Now we’re really close. If you were to lift our shirts you would see an “I sang ‘Emotional Roller Coaster’ with LaQui- “At first I was nervous, but after the INTERVIEW BY YASMIN RAMIREZ umbilical cord. We don’t have a mixtape yet, but we’ve made a few sha Nichols. I wasn’t nervous because I sang at crowd complimented us I wasn’t. “I sang ‘Miss You’ by songs. We need 300 likes on the page then we will drop the mixtape. last year’s talent show. We didn’t dance together The performance that I liked the Aaliyah. It was my first You can hear us on Facebook at Bloodline.ent. Our singles are ‘Who because we didn’t get our routine down. I’d like best was the dancing which I love to time singing in front of That Remix,’ ‘Breath,’ and ‘That’s Gangsta.’” to dance in the next talent show on May 24.” do. Dance is my way of expression.” a crowd. I was excited.” Tavonna Howard, Earvie Howard, Aramis Pates Jasmine Reese, senior LaQuisha Nichols, senior Janet King, senior

March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 9 10 Star News The point is not the points, the point is the poetry

By Janet King

he poetry slam team competed in the annual competition “Louder Than A TBomb” (LTAB) on February 26. For months, coaches Ivelisse Cotto and James Sloan did all they could to prepare the team for their big moment. In the first bout. this reporter (aka “Pinkayy) performed “Letter to my Brother,” senior Charnae Turner performed “Jayden’s mother,” junior Aramis “Prototype” Pates performed “Paper Door,” and sophomore Carissa Knox performed “Iridescent Failures.” Sarah Landor, Antiona “Dove” Thomson, this reporter, and Carissa Knox performed the group piece “Punching Bag.” In the second bout senior Antiara Thomp- son performed “Trapped,” sophomore Tavonna “Hoops” Howard performed “You are Beauti- ful,” sophomore Sarah Landor performed “The Things I Miss,” Antiara Thompson performed “Trapped,” and sophomore Carissa Knox performed “Irridescent Failures.” Then Pinkayy King, Antonia Thompson, Sarah Landor, and Carissa Knox performed their group piece titled “Punching Bag,” Even though the team got second place in both bouts, the point is that they spoke what was on their hearts and minds. They spoke the truth. For one second someone felt what they had felt when they first wrote the poem The poetry slam team members who competed at Louder Than a Bomb and their coaches: Antonia Thompson, Sarah Landor, Amaris or when they were performing the poem. Pates, Janet King, teacher James Sloan, Charnae Turner, Carissa Knox, Tavonna Howard, teacher Ivelisse Cotto, Antiara Thompson They tried their best to win back the title our alumni won back in 2007 because they performed their all. LTAB is a great way to connect with the audience, teammates, INTERVIEW BY DESTINY CARPENTER INTERVIEW BY ARMIN SKENDEROVIC INTERVIEW BY CRYSTAL PHILLIPS coaches, schoolmates, and the other slammers “I performed ‘Punching Bag,’ a group poem “I wrote and performed a piece called “I got choked up while performing ‘The performing for other schools. with Carissa, Sarah and Charnae at Louder ‘Jaydens Mother,” about how society be- Things I Miss.’ That is the only poem that • Than a Bomb. I was nervous, all I could lieves every minority and every girl has had a lot of meaning to me. My friends and INTERVIEW BY BRITTANY ROBERTSON think about was messing up. My favorite a son or daughter. LTAB was fun. I met family came to support me, and the LTAB “The solo poem I performed was called ‘Iri- part of LTAB was seeing all the performanc- many new people. Many of the poems group supported me and that meant a lot. descent Failures.’ I chose to write this poem es. My favorite one was by this young girl allow you to know you are not the only My friends and teachers helped my write about a female friend of mine who is homo- confronting her mother about her sexuality. one going through stuff. Through poetry the poem. My advice after this experience sexual. It symbolizes her true person on the I’m looking forward to participating next I am allowed to talk to people I would is go out and do what you want, conquer inside and out. She knows that I wrote this year. Two former Steinmetz poetry slam have never seen myself talking to before.” your fears.” poem about her. It’s best to keep it a secret.” team members came out to support us” Charnae Turner, senior Sarah Landor, sophomore Carissa Knox, sophomore Antonia Thompson, junior The next principal shares his experience and plans

Interview with Mr. Ngo When did you teach at Steinmetz? Continued from Page 1 I taught social studies from 1997 to 2006. determine which specific strategies work best. Reading is one of the major English- What did you like about teach- Language Arts strands of the Common ing here? Core. How well does DEAR improve The students of course! student ability to identify key ideas and details? What is the range of reading When were you an assistant prin- and text complexity students are using cipal? when engaged in DEAR? How well does I was an AP at Steinmetz from 2006 it help students to integrate knowledge to 2010 and ideas? I’d like to work with the staff in making a determination on DEAR. What did you like about that job? It helped prepare me for what I do Are you really going to keep the now. I was also able to interact with green uniform shirt? Please say “Ngo.” more students. On average, teachers Green is symbolic to Steinmetz. How- Freshman Cameron Dukes, World Language principal Stephen Ngo, senior Johann Sanchez, have 140 students. As an AP, I had ever, I want other colored shirts that signi- Principal Eunice Madon, senior Jeremy Valentin on March 29 after the LSC offered the almost 2,000! fy specific student accomplishments. For contract to Mr. Ngo to become Steinmetz’s next principal when Dr. Madon retires. example, World Language High School PHOTO BY AMBER DUKES What is your ethnic background? honor roll students have a different shirt French and Vietnamese than others. Attendance all-stars should have their own shirt What weaknesses do you see? as well. Let’s have student-athletes represent, too. Perhaps I see challenges not weaknesses. We need to move Steinmetz How old are you? surveying students on this would be a good step forward. from Level 3 to Level 1. We also need to ensure that Steinmetz How many presidents have there been? is a school of choice for the community. Steinmetz is vital to What strengths do you see in our students and staff? the longevity and progress of the neighborhood. Where did you go to elementary school, high school, Steinmetz students are some of the greatest students on and college, and what did you study in college? earth! I have the qualitative evidence to back that up, too. How can you help? Ray Elementary in Hyde Park, Whitney Young H.S., Do- Former Steinmetz students that I know personally have at- I have very specific goals and expectations for Steinmetz. minican University — B.A. (political science), UIC – M.Ed, tained success in every facet of professional life — education, I will implement the correct action steps to attain the desired Loyola — doctoral grad work (but I haven’t finished yet). medicine, business, etc. The staff at Steinmetz instilled the outcomes asked for by the Local School Council, parents, educational foundations for these successes. This speaks highly students, teachers and community stakeholders. Continued on Page 11 of their dedication and care.

10 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star News 11 Many students selected for awards in city-wide art

t Star press time, art teachers and students do not know which pieces have won gold, silver, or bronze medals in the annual competition All-City Art competition. All of the pieces on pages 11 -13 received special recognition. Not shown are Kelly Martinez’s A“Promise” and “Tres Calaberas” by Jaqueline Muro.•

BY ANTIARA THOMPSON BY CHRISTIAN HUERTAS BY GENESIS ROMERO

BY JESSICA CONNEELY

BY JESSICA CONNEELY BY NORJORIA PRATT BY EDWIN RAMIREZ

BY JEANE MARCELO BY AIDAN PRESTON BY JOCELYN URUCHIMA

Mr. Ngo’s philosophy, favorites, thoughts on students

Interview with Mr. Ngo What do you like to do in your free time? bao dumplings, Ribs and Bibs in Hyde Park, I don’t have time to surf. Ninety-seven percent Continued from Page 10 Ha, I have very little free time. As it is, I Weiner Circle on Clark, and I have to say I of my Internet time is spent checking e-mails. am writing this at 4:22 a.m.! I do enjoy eat- like Tank Noodle for their Pho. It’s awful. Did you ever travel or work in another ing, however. country? Favorite songs or artists? Video games? I don’t get to travel as much as I would like. What is one of your favorite movies? I am a total dance music freak. Fusion Ra- I’m very old school. Pac Man, Space Invad- I taught in Japan for threes years. “To Live” by Zhang Yimou, starring Gong dio Chicago plays all day in my office and on ers, Asteroids were my favorites growing up. Li. my i-Phone when I exercise. Book of Love was Who is in your family? one of my favorite groups, Depeche Mode too. Vacations? My awesome wife — we just celebrated Favorite book? I’ll take any island in the South Pacific! our 15th wedding anniversary. “The Enigma of Japanese Power” by Karel Sports teams? None in particular, but I van Wolferen. do favor Chicago teams. What else should we know about you? Do you have any pets? I care very much for students. Being an Yes, a little Yorkshire Terrier, Nikki. Favorite restaurants? TV show? educator has been incredibly gratifying be- Katsu for sushi, also Phillip Foss’ El Ideas Mad Men cause it has allowed me to work with young Do you have a philosophy? (the El stands for elevated), Slurping Turtle people my entire professional life. I’ve always Effort x Ability = Success. You must have for ramen, Art of Pizza, Chicago Kalbi for Websites? found that sharing a good gesture returns with both to be successful. Korean bbq, T Tasty House for their xiao long With over 3,000 work e-mails in my queue, greater reward. •

March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 11 12 Star News All-City art contest winners

BY VICTORIA GONZALEZ BY MONSERRAT RAFAEL Teacher/student collaboration wins All-City medal eachers Jennifer Bates and Alex Sutphen The section shown below is only one-third buena, Saray Bernabe, Emanuel Berrospe, Ortiz, Crystal Phillips, Elvis Ramirez, Ive- and their students created a collabora- of the work. Victoria Castillo, Bernice Cervantes, Alexis lisse Reyes, Gonzalo Salgado, Juan Salamanca, Ttive piece “Social Statement Postcards,” The students involved in the piece are Mi- Cortez, David Herrera, Diana Herrera, Omar D’Angelo Santiago, Xitlaly Sierra, Charnae that also won a medal. chael Amaya, Ricardo Arroyo, Emelyn Bal- Martinez, Brenda Mata, Michelle Molina, Jose Turner, and Jessica Velasco.•

12 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star News 13 Winners created awesome art

BY VICTOR BENITEZ “I created a robot. It’s a awkward, more realistic Wall-e, a giant brain BY JESSE CHAVEZ BY MIGNONETTE LAYA fart, a random idea that came out of nowhere.” “The name of my piece is ‘Flaming Thoughts.’ It “The process took me about a month but that was be- Victor Benitez, junior was coming to me as I was drawing it. I did my best cause I was absent a lot. I used chalky, really thick type INTERVIEW BY AGNES PASTERCZYK work on this one. It took me three weeks but the as- of materials. The colors are white, grey and white but signment was supposed to be completed in two. Ms. the outside (background) was colorful. The process of Mark wouldn’t let me finish until she said I was done. creating my self portrait wasn’t hard at all. It was all about I used gray, orange, red, and yellow chalk pastels. I also being calm and patient. I was inspired by other people enjoy doing anime or portraits, and I’m interested in doing it and it looked cool to do something like that.” tattoo. I never thought my art was good enough, but Mignonette Laya, senior it has progressed. Now I feel anyone can be an artist INTERVIEW BY ANYSSA ASCENCIO if they really want to. I draw for fun, and I have been approached to sell some of my work.” Jesse Chavez, junior INTERVIEW BY LUPITA AYALA

JUDY CZAHOR

BY TABITHA MORALES

BY VICTOR BENITEZ

BY KATHERIN TERRANOVA

BY YARA GARCIA BY YARA GARCIA

March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 13 14 Star Arts & Entertainment Movie almost as Chicago Comic good as the book Expo has it all By Haywood Gandy By Matt Baranowicz he Chicago Comic and En- atching “The tertainment Expo will be at Hunger Games” Tthe McCormick Place from WI have to say that April 13 to April 15. it was quite different than “I’m excited to go because I’ll the book. In the movie the get to meet other people who are producers changed details a interested in comics,” junior Luis little bit, but the main idea Lopez said. stayed the same. All things superhero will be at The movie didn’t show the convention. the killing parts, like the “My favorite superhero is Bat- book did, which explains man because he’s the most realistic,” why the movie was PG 13, said senior David Flores, who is also which was kind of disap- going to the Comic Expo. pointing. The first comic book written Although the movie by Alan Moore, the creator of the was a bit different from the comic book “Watchman,” will be book, in my opinion it was displayed. Some special guests will great anyway. I also think be Steven Yeun, from “The Walking that whoever read the book Dead,” and the legendary actor John must watch it, because it Cusack, who was in “2012.” gives you an idea of how The tickets are $25 in advance, “The Hunger Games” world $35 at the door. • looks like. • April is National Poetry Month ... why not read a poem? I Can’t Recall Central Park in Mental Connection Who Are You? Bryan Fall The entity of liquefied memories helps I am a stone. A boulder. A brick wall. Bryan is the air that I breathe, There’s nothing greater than first love, me cope with reality, you’re more than just Honest to god, nothing gets past me. I he is the pillow I lay my head upon at night, I’ll be the first to attest… a feeling to me. am not porous. Nothing goes through he is my forever and more But when he broke that promise me. No emotion. Stoic. Stale. Sometimes my mi amour. My heart was ripped from my chest. Let’s just call you love stumped. Relentless. No one gets in. making knees shatter No one at all. Never ever ever ever. But Life without him is pointless I could hear your blood pressure rise form gripping hearts, continuously squeezing somehow, you got in. and retched with pain. where I sat, until the beat screams your name. and I couldn’t wait to end the fight…. I am a hearth. A fire. A burning effigy. When he’s around me air surrounds me you started it, though, so relentlessly, I want you to mentally make love to I swear on my life, I’ve been in your and fills my lungs as I sit and inhale and I’m blessed with another sleepless night. me, make me drip of intellectual thoughts shoes. Empathetic, sympathetic and often that sweet aesthetic aroma. and have a era so sensual that my sporadic. No one understands. No one. But now that space you filled But, as time passes, I regress to the mama, intelligence is pregnant. Not at all. But somehow, you do. in my life, also in my heart, is empty. “I’m disappointed, not mad…” look forward to seeing you again, Fill the bellows of my mind I am a speck of dust. An amoeba. An The air that I breathe kills my insides, though it happened to end bad. bless me with nine months of purity oxygen molecule. No one can see me. squeezing and twisting my heart and successful theories more so than You’d have to look for hours have a keen until it looks like a Twizzler. You were insisting that I hated you, nine months of the end of what could or eye and great patience and care. I guess I am in pain. how egotistic can you be? should be. you do. The person I saw myself with To sit there, the entire time, mulling over for the rest of my life “Oh, she must still be thinking about me.” Penetrate my every entrance with I am a peep. A sigh. A bated breath. Few is now just a past representation more ingenious ideas than ignorant can hear me. No one seemed to care. of happiness that I will never have again. Homie, dude, I got over you in a day, statements, and more facts Until you. you were the one that hung on for dear life.. than irrational in pigments of memory. I guess that old saying is true When, and only when you come back, I am white. 5 foot 8. 185lbs. Believe it or ‘‘What you won’t do he’ll find another girl begging on your knees for forgiveness Give me the passion to do not, I’m still me. Without you, though, I who will,’’ will I return your bloody knife. what my family couldn’t. don’t know where I’d be. and it must be true because it seems as if Lil‘ Wayne and Drake found her too. So text me one more time, The tongue to speak on what You were the first to melt the stone, to let’s see what remorse you give, the world’s puny ears refuse move the boulder, to break the wall, to You asked me if I was mad I know you only want stupid kicks to listen to. feed the hearth, to put out the fire, to I replied no, just disappointed. cuz your lies are like water in a sieve. extinguish the effigy, to catch the speck, Disappointed to know that in this scenario Give me the power to to see the amoeba, to find the molecule, the early bird really does catch the worm I’ll never fall like that again, change something. to hear the peep, to notice the sigh and to and I’m left out in the cold starving. for you or another stop the bated breath. Just go back to your little jail bait, Let knowledge caress my insides But not from the hunger and hers will be the dreams you can smother. gripping every verb and every syllable by You truly are something else. You have the that makes little Timmy’s tummy hurt friction power to do all of these amazing things. but from the hunger that causes a heart Jennie Czahor let conversations collide and create Now I know who I am, to stop beating and rip down the seam. my future, a better future. But who are you? Judy Czahor The pain I’m experiencing is unbearable. ‘Be True to your School’ Allowing your mental seduction to conquer So I grab the cocaine, the heroin, me, “Love, passion and everything in More poetry on Page 18 the marijuana, and yes, even the novocaine essay contest: between” because anything is better than the pain that you are my everything. of the web edition is pumping and rushing through my veins. Describe someone or And you can release that grip March-April 2012 Star Bryan is the poisonious gas that I breathe something great at because my heart beat already he is the bed of nails I lay upon at night screams your name. www.steinmetzac.com he my forever and more Steinmetz. Due May 18. Carissa Knox my mi amour. Quijna Walton

14 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star Sports 15 Streaks baseball grows in skills, friendship

By Armin Skenderovic

he baseball players have huge expectations for their team this year. Coming off a not-so-great season last year, and Tthis year short-handed but motivated, the team came together. With returning veterans and first year players, the team became a family. “A team isn’t a team unless they grow as one,” said Coach Angel Lefty De Jesus, returning for his second year as assistant coach of the Streaks. Friendships brought new players into the sport and love for the game allowed them to stay. With a pre-season approach- ing the baseball team was determined to win. Not having all of their players due to ineligibility or injury the players still didn’t let their spirits fall. “The team not only grew as a team but as individuals, each player contributes one or another attribute to each and every practice and game,” head coach Renato Roldan said. Many players this year decided to go on with a popular haircut — the tail. All committed players agreed to cut their hair leaving more on the back to allow a tail to grow. This exhibits the team’s dedication and loyalty to each other. “When you look good, you play good” is the team’s motto. With pre-season over, the Streaks are eager to go into the regular season, as a stronger, faster, and smarter team. We all have a lot to grow on, but I wouldn’t want to be surrounded Armando Calderon, Benito Martinez, Armin Skenderovic Merek Quaglia, Alex Garcia, Stanley Hill by anyone else at this point. PHOTO BY SHANNA ARCEO PHOTO BY SHANNA ARCEO Like Coach Roldan says, no excuses are needed and every player has put in his time and effort in becoming something Upcoming home games: Wednesday, April 18, Northside Monday, April 23 Prosser bigger than himself. • Friday, April 20 Lincoln Park Wednesday, May 2 Marshall Soccer opportunity outside of school good players and Mr. Kotcherha is By Antonio Rodriguez a good and demanding coach. Q: Why didn’t you join the soc- any students are involved cer team if it’s good then? in sports teams outside of A: I actually did freshman year Mschool. Samuelster United when coach Kevin was still here, is a soccer team that plays indoor and but only for a while. outdoor soccer. This team consists of Q: Why do you think some mostly Steinmetz students. people don’t play in the school The team plays weekends at Chi- team? cago Academy in Austrotronca soccer A: I personally don’t play on league. Samuelter United has been the team because I go on vacation winning medals and trophies since during summer and practices start 2008. in early August and that is the rea- The soccer team has won numerous son why some other students don’t trophies some of its players have been play in the team. This year Pablo selected to play in “Copa Jarritos” a Apun and David Cruz played for prestigious cup in the Chicago area. the Streaks. The Star interviewed senior Samuel Q: Will you be playing soccer Castillo. in college? Q: What do you think about the Steinmetz students on Samuelster United: (front row) junior Josue Chavez, former student Miguel Cienfuegos, senior Luis A: I’ll probably play, but it’s school soccer team? Bello, senior Marco Lopez, junior Efrain Luna, (back row) senior Irvin Guevara, senior Jose Panfilo, senior Samuel Castillo, senior harder because college level is more A: I think its pretty good it has very Pablo Apun, junior David Cruz, senior Christopher Centeno. demanding. • April is National Poetry Month ... why not write a poem? How You Make Me Feel Grandpa Seems like you were here just yesterday But you’re in angel town with Uncle Frank No words can express what you really Never said goodbye, and Carl mean to me was left on the floor motionless I know you can hear me grandpa When I see you They said you’d slipped I want answers to my questions My heart is filled with glee away the night before. and you can’t provide them Feels like an electric band is con- Was only 11 and couldn’t figure necting out why you were lying there motionless. You and I will meet in heaven and when we do Swimming Like a Butterfly Me to thee. Attempted to touch you, I’ll spread my wings and fly with you through- You make my life complete Skin was cold as Chicago’s winter. out eternity A rhythm in the water, No one has ever been this sweet The gleam in your eye was no longer visible. I’m sorry for being a bad grandchild simple rhythm, Your love is something As we got into cars, eyes watered like busted Since I didn’t say it enough while you were Kick, kick, pull, I can never defeat pipes, alive, body moving like a dolphin, No one loves me like you do And smile turned into one sad pout. Granddad, I love you. hands moving like wings, Your flow of words feels so dulcet Getting that “1st thing in the morning” call Antiona Thompson the water makes it feel In our relationship, was the like flying. I don’t feel any regret worst thing that ever happened to me. Just seconds in the water, I love you Aunt Shelia gave us juice to calm our system Like to write, just not poetry? a few out for a breath, And you love me And it worked but didn’t ease the pain. The Newspaper Club meets quick and easy, That’s all that matters in this world Thursdays in Room 333. hard for others, of cruelty Attended funeral service the following week. All students are welcome! but not for me. Your love and presence Should’ve kissed you on the head when I had Or, how about entering our essay contest? I will compete, is my remedy. the chance to ‘Be True to Your School’ — email us: to do the butterfly. Michelle Garibay Regrets haunt me till this very day. [email protected] Julian Salgado I have so much to say and no time left to say it.

March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 15 16 Star Sports Jorge Orduno: World David Herrera reaches Sport Chicago Scholar Golden Gloves semifinals By Lucas Burrell

teinmetz has its own boxer roam- Sing the halls and his name is David Her- rera. “It all started in 7th grade at Burbank,” Da- vid said. “I got into a lot of fights until my dad and the soccer coach gave me the idea to fight in the ring instead of everywhere else.” Junior Jorge Orduno, #6, became a “World Sport Chicago Scholar” for his excellence in After boxing for six athletics and academics. With Jorge are teammates Pedro Diaz and Brian Moscol. months, training with Jabb boxing, David won Boxer David Herrera has had much success in the ring, including PHOTO COURTESY YEARBOOK the first tournament he making it to the semifinals of the Golden Gloves tournament in March. By Jazalynne Velez and all the time outside of school. He is fought in. His current also on the volleyball team. boxing record is 6-2 with orge Orduno won acceptance to the WSC Scholars have access to Chicago one of the losses coming in the Golden Gloves Dave has won two tournaments and he plans World Sport Chicago Scholars Class Scholars mentoring, receive Kaplan”s on- tournament in the semi-finals. to keep boxing for a long long time. Jof 2012. Hundreds of juniors from line ACT test preparation course, and To prepare for the Golden gloves tournament, “I like boxing because it helps me stay off the public and private Chicago schools ap- have the opportunity to compete for one he worked out four times a week. Workouts con- street,” David said. “But I’m still able to knock plied, only 56 were selected. of the 10 renewable college scholarships sisted of three-mile runs, six rounds of sparring, a couple heads loose if people decide to act stu- “I feel great that I won this honor,” worth up to $5,000 annually ($20,000 pad work, punching bags, push-ups and much pid.” Jorge said. “Ms. Jabour was very happy, over four years). more. • too. She couldn’t believe it.” A video about the WSC scholars pro- His favorite fighter is Manuel Marquez. He Jorge is in the IB program. His main gram is available on You Tube: http://www. watches the pros to learn different aspects from sport is soccer —playing for the Streaks youtube.com/watch?v=dc5zFotB1hY. • their boxing styles. Tiarra McGee breaks another school record! All team members in great shape after grueling indoor season

By Lauren DeJesus and Salma Zaghdoud

tarting in February, the girls track team went to their first Sindoor meet of the season. The meet consisted of tough competition, like Bloom and Peyton. Regardless, all the girls came with support for each other and had a blast. For the last indoor meet, many teammates who were not in any events still came out and supported the rest of our team. It’s common that other coaches talk to Coach Abel Pererya and tell him how impressed they are with the team spirit. It was a great kick-off for the rest of our season. After four tough indoor meets, it was time to end the indoor season and take it outside. The Star interviewed two of the track team captains, Lucy Licona Girls track and field team members after their first outdoor meet on March 31. In addition to Coach Pereyra’s “Coach’s Corner” reports on team members and Samanta Balbuena. and meets on his webpage, he also sends out special thanks to parents who came out on April 7, the holiday weekend, to support the team. How do you feel our season is going? PHOTO COURTESY ABEL PEREYARA LL: It’s going great. It’s been very competi- tition is ourselves; you’re there to do your best. field of 21 teams. Awesome performances by our cord in the event. Tiarra now holds the distance tive and challenging. Coach Pereyra’s reports on the outdoor 4x800m (Jelly Jimenez, Cintia Garcia, Lucy trifecta with the 1600m, 3200m, and 3-mile SB: It’s great how the freshmen are stepping meets follow: Licona, Tiarra McGee) and 4x100m (Elizabeth school records. up and rising with the seniors. Mather Invite, March 31: 5th out of 21 teams Queen, Brianna Harris, Kelvina Taylor, Char- Among some of our hardest working girls at How do you feel about outdoor season? I could never be more proud of this team nae Turner) relay teams got us off to a great early this one were our serious freshmen. Arely Morales LL: That’s my favorite part about the track than at the close of this meet when 20 of them start. In the field we took 4th in the high jump seemed like she was everywhere, Diana Her- season, we see the commitment and engage- (half the team!) ran as multiple 4x400m relay (Julissa Garces), 2nd in the discus and 3rd in the rera jumped into events without hesitation, and ment that the girls have for the sport. We see teams. Almost every other team had fallen apart shot (Paulina Ciepiela), and 6th in the discus Brenda Escalante ran like an upper-classman. them having a passion for the team. or headed home, but not our girls. Our girls (Katherine Zavala). Tiara McGee snagged 6th Also incredibly notable was junior Jelly SB: We have experience, we’re in shape and came to run. And every one of them left it all place in the 400m dash, Jazelyn Viruet came in Jimenez who led the 4x800m to victory and we run longer in a shorter amount of time. We out on the track. 7th in the 100m hurdles, and our 4x400m team ran back to back events in the 4x200m and face wind, and rain and these challenges help After the races we got to see one of the most of Jelly Jimenez, Sammy Balbuena, Fanny Reyes, 300m hurdles. us grow as a people and as athletes. special things about this group — everyone check- and Cintia Reyes capped off the day in style. How do you guys feel about the tough ing on each other to make sure we were all okay. Luther North Invite, April 14 competition? You just don’t see much of that going on in the Mather/Jones/Steinmetz, April 7: Streaks win! Tiarra McGee took 2nd place in both the LL: It makes you push yourself. It’s an other camps. There was a lot of hugging and One of the meet highlights was the 1600m 100m dash and 400m dash. Donneka Anderson honor because we’re right up there with them. team pride....really, you would have to be made run where Cintia Garcia and Fanny Reyes both came away with 3rd place in the shot put and We’re on the same level. of stone not to get a little emotional. ran their personal best times while their team- 6th place in the discus. Cinta Garcia and Diana SB: You learn from them. The only compe- We finished fifth in the team standings in a mate, Tiarra McGee, dispatched the school re- Herrera improved their times in the 1600 m. • 16 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012 Star Web Extra 17 ‘Young Activists’ protest longer day, less-lunch plan Proposed student schedule for Steinmetz, 2012-2013 The following article was printed in the January – February 2012 Star. There is one change — Mayor Rahm Emanual an- Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday nounced on April 10 that next year high schools will dismiss students 75 minutes earlier, one day a week. The “Proposed Schedule for Steinmetz, 2012-2013” now must be refined by May 18. Steinmetz is likely to change Monday’s bell schedule to 39-minute classes, making dismissal that day at 2:20. The Young Activists of Steinmetz are protesting this plan. They urge other students may talk with administrators and sign the petition: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/steinmetz • CPS forces longer day

By Filip Palka Steinmetz’s plan — Lunch periods shortened: Half of the period would be spent in the lunchroom, the other half with a teacher in a classroom for “intervention.” No 8th period lunch: Seniors would no longer have the option to leave the building early. f the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and Mayor No division, longer classes: Division will be cut. Each of the 8 classes will have a block period (75 Rahm Emmanual get their way, students across minutes) once a week. This year, classes are 43 minutes, next year most of the classes will be longer. Ithe city will have a longer day next year. Stein- metz students — including seniors — will be in class an extra hour. for Steinmetz.While the proposed plan includes an posed schedule goes through, all students (includ- popular with school staff, parents, and students. However, the schedule change is not certain. additional hour in school, students’ lunch periods ing seniors) would stay until the end of 8th period Adding minutes to seems unnecessary. The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and the Board would be shorter. To fullfuill CPS’s requirements at 3:34, except on Mondays when dismissal would “The main issue for schools is not quantity, of Education are in negotiations. Next year’s con- for enrichment or intervention periods, the com- be at 2:52 but quality of the instruction,” Mr. Jaramillo said. tract has not been agreed upon. mittee planned that half of the lunch period to be On Mondays, students would have 48-minute Parents and students are unhappy about the “This is not a done deal,” CTU President Karen used for “intervention,” which could be DEAR or classes, according to the plan. Tuesdays through idea that sports, activities, afterschool jobs, and Lewis said on February 1. other academic programs. Fridays, students would have two 75-minute pe- homework will all be pushed back. Students are Students may not know the actual schedule This shortened lunch could be better for the riods; the rest of the periods would be 46-minutes. outraged that while the plan calls for an extra hour until they start classes in September. CPS has re- school because it could calm the environment, ac- The longer periods would be scattered so that no in school, their lunch period would be shortened. quired that all schools form committees to plan cording to Mr. Jaramillo. Many fights and problems teacher or student get back-to-back 75-minute Some students are concerned that at-risk stu- a longer day schedule for their schools. Assistant start in the lunchroom and this will help solve that. periods, Mr. Jaramillo said. dents might just quit next year rather than go principal Jaime Jaramillo heads up the committee Currently, 8th period ends at 2:31. If the pro- CPS’s demand for a longer school day is un- through with another hour of school.• Seniors respond to Feb. Star research project article

By Alex Grezlik By Jessica Molina By Daisy Medrano By Javier Flores By Tatiana Lara

can honestly say that I agree with Ricardo Ar- ome seniors have agreed n my opinion in a way the senior research he research paper is a tougher ome students are just com- royo in saying that the Senior English Research that doing a research pa- paper is a good idea to most students requirement than the rest of plaining too much because Ipaper should not be a graduation requirement. Sper isn’t necessary because Iwho plan to go to college. It will help Tthe graduation requirements, Sit could have been worse. This paper, which includes a lot of criteria, is we do essays all year long. A re- them prepare on what they will be facing but it isn’t that hard. Doing a research paper with a lot very stressful and time consuming. Through the search paper should be required in college. Although doing a research paper Sure, many students had problems of time and plenty of help from the 25-plus notecards, citations, reading, outlining, for both juniors and seniors. Not of six to eight pages might not be easy, in a picking out their topic but once you teachers should not be that difficult. and revisions, I just couldn’t take it. But I did only does it help them become way we do need it to know that in college having a topic and your sources with Maybe it’s just laziness. In the get it done, but only because I knew that if i better writers, but they will be they will be asking for more. your outline planned out makes it way world everyone is going to face a didn’t get this paper done, the dream of walking prepared to do a paper in college. I do think we should have had more more easier. Writing a six-page paper lot of difficulty if they just complain across the stage at my high school’s graduation With the help of Ms. Russo, time to work on this paper because all of goes more easier when you have a lot of about a simple research paper. would be no more. I was able to understand the this was new to some students and were information and time to get it done. It There was a lot of help provided I saw over a dozen people on Facebook the procedures that were needed to not prepared in past classes. I think that shouldn’t have been that complicated. and there was a library that was open day right before the paper was due posting that complete the paper. Ms. Russo teachers should’ve given us a little bit more Many seniors took the research every single day. I thought that is was they were either still working or just starting the was a great help, during winter time because it was really stressful to have paper seriously only because it was a pretty good deal. Seniors still did paper and that it was quite possibly the hardest break. She used some of her to worry about a senior research paper and a graduation requirement, but I saw a good job on it because they know thing they have ever had to do in their high time to meet up students at the also have to worry about studying for other this as a help for college so I can have it is a graduation requirement and it school career. These people have had no sleep library who had questions about classes for finals. an idea for some of the work assign- was the only thing they had to worry at all that night, and I mean no sleep. Students, the paper. She wasn’t obligated to Maybe it would’ve been a better idea if ments that we’re going to have to do about all year and now it’s over with. drained and exhausted the next day, complaining go but she took the opportunity we would’ve been able to do this research in the future. Students should be glad that we about their paper, were not pleased at what they because she wanted us to write a paper our junior year. I think that it could’ve Many seniors complained that did it first semester because now se- had to do. Some students had told me their plans good paper. prepared us for our ACT and also for our we didn’t have enough time to work nior, if you have all the requirements of what to do with that paper and trust me, it The research paper unit has senior year. My teacher did help me a lot on the paper, but I think the paper to graduate and you know you do wasn’t pretty. helped me understand what col- to be able to accomplish this paper and be shouldn’t have been a big problem for should just be a walk in the park. On top of the other graduation requirements lege papers will be all about. able to finish on time. seniors if they had put dedication and Come to school everyday, all day such as 40 service learning hours, 90 percent at- • • time into it. and on time, then passing all your tendance, clearing of detentions, and the obvious • classes should be pretty easy. The following article, printed in the January - February 2012 Star generated a lot of comments. passing all the core classes, this paper certainly I did struggle a lot with my does not help ease our way into graduation, only Research paper is a tough requirement for seniors research paper, but I know that it more strain and stress in our lives. I am almost could have been worse, so I tried my positive, some seniors after this paper, will not outline can be filled out to make things easier. As soon as students best on it and when I was done I felt be able to write another paper without thinking By Ricardo Arroyo complete their outlines, they begin writing. good about myself because I did it. back to this. Underclassmen have it made for the Senior Mariela Garcia also believes that the research paper Students should be feeling ac- remaining time that they have left, until they efore you can graduate you are faced with a list of gradu- should not be required. complished and smarter about become seniors. I personally was very relieved ation requirements. Some requirements are to maintain a “I don’t think this paper is necessary because there is a lot of knowing how to put together a that I had gotten my paper done and thought B90% attendance rate (to walk across the stage), 40 service more important requirements to worry about,” she said. “Also, research paper because in college there was no way that anything else in high school learning hours, and a 6-8 page research paper. this paper was due at the wrong time — during finals.” there’s going to be a whole lot of can compare to what this paper had in store. The 90 percent attendance and 40 service learning hours Both Stephanie and Mariela say the only reason they take research papers that have to be done. But through all this craziness, I did find a requirements are the easy part for some seniors, but completing this paper seriously is it’s a graduation requirement. It helps prepare all seniors who are little taste of what college can actually be like. a research paper is more of a struggle. “In my opinion, the research paper being required for gradua- trying to be successful in this world So I guess this paper wasn’t entirely a waste of “I think we shouldn’t have to do a paper,” senior Stephanie tion is a great idea,” teacher Colleen Walsh said. “I think it’s good and really care about their future. time. When it comes time for us to go to college Jimenez said. “It takes too long and it’s stressful. I don’t think we preparation for college, and students should have to write some • and do this on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, get enough in-school class time to work on it. What’s the point sort of research paper every year. Many students procrastinate we will be a little bit more prepared. I strongly of doing this paper if we do essays all year long?” and wait until the end to start and finish it. The best papers are suggest that whoever decided to make this paper a Although the senior research paper is similar in some ways from the students that take it seriously.” graduation requirement, should seriously rethink to an essay, there is much more to it. Being ahead of the game is always the best way to go. Under- they idea. First, students need to find a topic that they want to research. classmen should take all needed classes, finish all service learning • Once students have found the right topic that interests them, hours, and clear detentions. When you become a senior, you don’t they can begin researching. Reading is a huge part of the research want to be stuck with doing everything at once. It’s also paper. If you do not read nothing will get done. After that, the best to start assignments as soon as they are given.• March-April 2012 Steinmetz Star 17 18 Star Web Extra April is National Poetry Month ... why not read or write a poem?

It’s Never That ‘ Tis Not Easy Lily Petals

What if I told you that I didn’t love you, ‘Tis not easy as we want it to be Lily petals Well, O’ God why do you make us delirious open up to hug a suffocating warmth Not that I don’t love you, Above all be true to thyself and you’ll see like tongues of fire, but they don’t burn. Just that I’m not in love with you anymore? That you will find your match mysterious The four letter word that means so much to you It’s meant to soothing from what she knows, You see... It’s hard... Is as rare as seeing a shooting star it’s melodic, if not methodic To try to love someone like you, Don’t let people in your past make you bleu when pondered too meticulously. But I think I do anyway. Stay positive to live life as your are I just can’t be in love with you. Be patient with love and a gentle heart Water transpires from the lily Someone who is an 18 year old drop-out, d Don’t let someone treat you like a tissue a hot day can become too much to bear emote sophomore, You will be fine to let go and restart so she closes up and recoils. With no GED, That guy is not worth a cent to pursue And no job, And no car, And still lives in his You may well have heart aches to find your love It takes a while for her to recover parents basement, Never give up you’ll have your prince belo’ed. as the warmth, her lover And still gets whatever he wants from his mama. begs for her to unfold once more. Psh! Mama’s boy. Janet King That’s what you really are. She refuses, You’re not a man. and her leaves and petals lose their brilliance & beauty, You don’t stand up for yourself. The Pain I Felt but the warmth assumes no guilt You don’t even stand up for me... and that’s the real issue. ‘The pain I felt The warmth takes no prisoners, You sit at home all day on your X-Box You didn’t feel feels no remorse, Watching Netflix, With no one but your pets, The hurt felt as he’s victimized many a flower before…. Waiting for my text. You didn’t feel all of whom the lily knows

“I miss you” I say. You used me She’s left, a weak stamen “imy2” No effort. You hurt me a ghost of her former self, a frame without a picture “What did you do today?” Hopeful. You lied for your roots without anchor, body without soul. “Nuthin.” own needs ...exactly...I know. Jennie Czahor I just hope someday you say something like... What am I? “Hey beautiful, I got good news! I passed my Your doll you can play with? drivers test, got my license, signed up for GED classes and applied for a job!” NO! ...but, no I have feelings. Never. The truth I fell, Forever and Ever It’s never that. You will never know You don’t try, You’re lazy, Love is me and you You’re more emotional than me Me and you? I love you And you get pissed if I stay at school late. HA! You love me You SICKEN me... But there comes a time You see, My love, That no matter how many It’s funny how you tried so When you and I don’t feel the same things I can think of that I hate, I can never Bad to get me We go our separate ways will myself to leave you. But it was so easy for But we both made a promise I can’t push myself to leave you You to forget me That nothing will ever break us apart and find someone better. You still love her, huh? Because I love you & I always say “Today’s the day I man up!!!”.... That’s cool You love me ….. but no, It’s never that. It’ only because I know Just know i LOVED you!! Tatiana Turcios & Stephanie Ayala it would kill you inside if I left. If I got courageous enough, Now it’s me against the world!!! I could crush you with a single sentence. My head held to the highest!!! I could end it so easily, But for you... It’s your lost cause Not so easy. I am me WITH or WITHOUT you! Everything would be un-done. Sweetheart Everything I ever said, Desiree Reyes Everything I ever promised At times I can’t find words enough Would be gone. to express how deeply Our future kid I feel for you Beautiful light-skinned babies with your hair, But I want you to know Gorgeous dark-skinned babies with my eyes, that you hold a very special Our wedding, Our house, Our plans, place in my heart All gone. Acrostic Poem And with every passing day Maybe... I’m falling more and more Maybe I am in love with you... Joyful in love with you. But it’s never that. Easy-going Evan Morrison I’m just in love with the idea of being in love Smart ...but wait... Shy It’s never that. Imaging things I love you. Careful You under-achieveing, emotional, X-Box play- Active ing, lazy little mama’s-boy with no life. Jessica Zacny I promised that I’d never hurt you... But it’s not like that... It’s never that. Guilt Guilty My soul aches knowing What I did... Was wrong I’m so sorry I want to tell you ...but no... It’s never that. Judy Czahor

18 Steinmetz Star March-April 2012