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aw rint May/June 2018 Volume 17, Issue 3 Pharmacy CBL changes school structure BY HOPE ROGERS deserts Staff Writer abound For over a century, American students take seven classes per school systems have run on the year and spend at least 120 hours BY JONATHAN ZHANAY basis of strict time allotments; in each class. Staff Writer right now in Illinois, a student Payton social studies teacher The closing of pharmacies must spend approximately 180 Joshua Wiggins pointed out that in many low-income neighbor- days in school, and a CBL “requires teachers to facili- hoods throughout Chicago is Public Schools student is required tate learning rather than dictate having a detrimental effect on to spend seven or more hours at learning.” CBL in theory trans- people who rely on medical ser- school on most days. This struc- forms the classroom environment vices from their local pharma- ture may soon change because of so that students are more aware of cies. Illinois’ decision to test out a new the expectations set for them and The recent closings of CVS curriculum style called Competen- they have space for individualized stores, the most common phar- cy-Based Learning (CBL). learning. Photo by Michael Haran macy brand in Chicago, are Payton was one of several Payton administration does not Classes will be reimagined to prioritize function over form. Will Pay- making even affordable medi- schools in the state — and one of expect to fully implement CBL ton need traditional textbooks? cation far less accessible, and only six Chicago Public Schools, programming until the fall of revisions to be able to prove com- students arriving or leaving school as both retail and independent as of the initial stage of the pilot 2019 or 2020, but CBL coordina- petency in the long term. at different times, and also the tim- stores close at alarming num- period — selected to pilot the CBL tors have already begun work with Under CBL, experiential learn- ing of classes if the curriculum is bers, large health disparities program as Illinois legislators state- and city-wide organizations. ing could also be documented as more individualized. are emerging between Chicago consider it as a possible direction Students Jessie Mitchell ‘18 credit, including experiences in- Most students were intrigued communities. for school systems statewide. and Sam Brody ‘20 joined Prin- side and outside of school, such by the possibility of internships or The modern definition of a Many of the logistics of the cipal Tim Devine and teacher rep- as lab work, creative projects, or volunteer work for school credit, “pharmacy desert” is a “low- program are yet to be determined, resentatives Mr. Wiggins and Dr. internships. the most common rationale be- income community or neighbor- especially because the structure of Gillick at several board meetings At the enrichment, students in ing that they could have time on hood with no pharmacy within a CBL prioritizes “function” over to discuss next steps with other the audience brought up several school days rather than having to half-mile for those with limited “form.” pilot schools and regional school points about potential strengths of find opportunities that fit into their vehicle access.For low-income Function in this case refers to officials. and complications with the CBL weekend schedule. communities with adequate ve- the teaching of skills that students Recently at Payton, Mr. curriculum that the administration CBL will not be implemented hicle access, the defining radius should be expected to master be- Devine, Mitchell, and Brody have will take into consideration as they in the fall of 2018 because many of extends to a mile,” according to fore graduation, and form is the led informational enrichments for develop a set of curriculum expec- the logistics, from class program- Dr. Dima Qato, Assistant Pro- structure of the school day, includ- the student body, inviting students tations along with teachers and ming to curriculum standards, fessor within the Department ing start and end times, class pe- to provide feedback and ask ques- move towards officially imple- have yet to be determined. of Pharmacy Systems at the riods, and the year-long schedule. tions about various components of menting the program. Mr. Wiggins explained that University of Illinois at Chica- Payton and the other pilot the CBL program. One of the main problems that the most immediate next step will go, who derived this definition schools will be granted more flex- In each enrichment, the speak- students brought up repeatedly be to “disseminate information” from the similarly named urban ibility by the state in terms of the ers presented a brief slideshow on was the scheduling for AP classes, about CBL to parents, students, phenomenon “food deserts,” a school calendar and the number the history of education and the due to potential changes to the and other stakeholders in the phrase describing a lack of ac- of hours students spend in class potential future of CBL in high structure of the calendar, and some school, adding, “I think we have cess to food markets within a so that they can fully test out the school classes. students raised the possibility of phenomenal students and teachers mile. possibilities of CBL without be- Because CBL is more oriented limiting or completely eliminating and administrators here and have Pharmacy deserts continue to ing hindered by the restrictions of towards demonstrated mastery of AP classes and allowing students the opportunity to be at the fore- be most prevalent in segregat- the Carnegie Unit, a time-based skills than mechanical work pro- to take the exams independently. front of this new model of learn- ed and minority communities, system of measuring educational duction, students would have mul- Other concerns regarding pro- ing… new to the state and new to rather than those that are well- attainment, which demands that tiple opportunities for retakes and gramming included the logistics of the district.” integrated or primarily white, and this growing trend seems to be worsening over time. Sustain, think globally, act locally In a study conducted by BY SIDRAH TARIQ Health Affairs, from 2000 to Staff Writer 2012, the number of pharmacies As Payton Grizzlies become- ticipated in this seminar started a has decreased by 15% in segre- more technology-oriented in aca- few long-term projects in order to gated communities in the state demic classes, there is less atten- try to sustain our environment. of Illinois. As of 2018, there are tion devoted towards recycling, Some of them include waste still five hundred active pharma- but the Sustain Payton seminar is management, planting for the up- cies in Chicago. trying to make a difference. coming spring season, and setting With a large number of low- Recycling can maintain a up composts. income patients relying on these friendly environment and prevent Cameron Davis ‘18 said, “It’s pharmacies in order to receive pollution. Although we might not really cool that we are trying to be insurance and gain access to realize it, students can recycle eco-friendly and green.” medication, their closing cre- everyday products that we use at In addition, the seminar also ates troubling implications for school such as plastic bottles, card had monitors that could detect the treatment of those with are board (broken down), aluminum the air quality and the particles in disorders and illnesses. and steel cans, milk cartons, and the air with special sensors. This In 2017, CVS, an easily rec- paper. would help to share important en- ognizable pharmacy chain oper- Special recyclables include vironmental data, as well inform Photo by Michael Haran ating more than eighty stores in computers/electronics, batteries, about the potential health risks in Many students throw waste in the garbage and ignore the recycle Chicago alone made a business and fluorescent bulbs. Items such certain areas. bins placed in all classrooms. decision to close several stores as paper towels, napkins, dispos- This monitor connects to the interesting to see,” says Christina A recycling bin has been placed nationally; eleven of these clos- able utensils, food wrappers, and AirCasting Android app through Curry ‘18, who was also in the in each classroom throughout Pay- ings occurring in Chicago. straws are non-recyclable. bluetooth. The information col- seminar. ton to ensure that we continue to Such closings require cus- Sustain Payton seminar is lected is crowdsourced with data The projects have yet to be recycle the items that can be re- tomers to travel longer distances dedicated to enforcing recycling from other AirCasters to generate expanded and continue to create a used to promote a healthy environ- through various projects. Last se- maps of the different findings. greater impact on sustaining our ment. Continued on p. 3 mester, Payton students who par- “The maps are really cool and environment. 2 NEWS/FEATURES PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 Latinx Night donates to Puerto Rico BY SIDRAH TARIQ Staff Writer Payton held its first Latinx night Trlak ‘18, who is a member of the to celebrate the cultures of Span- Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. ish speaking countries and engage Latinx night took place in the students in cultural traditions and first floor of the new building activities on Tuesday, April 24. ,and it was designed so that it was The event featured a number of roaming style in which students activities from different countries could cycle through the different such as traditional games from activities. Mexico and the Dominican Re- They learned dances, engaged WALTER PAYTON public, and crafts from Guatemala. in arts and crafts, and played COLLEGE PREP People also had the opportunity to games such as Bingo and Kahoot. HIGH SCHOOL listen to music in Spanish. When they completed an activ- 1034 North Wells Street The event that was sponsored ity, they received tickets to pur- by the club members of the Socie- chase many different traditional Chicago, IL 60610 dad Honoraria Hispánica in order food including empanadas, rice phone: 773.534.0034 to support the hardships that many and beans, rice pudding, polvo- fax: 773.534.0035 individuals were facing in the af- rones, alfajores, tamales, plantain www.wpcp.org termath of Hurricane Maria. chips, magnos, bizcochos, and paytonpawprint.com All donations were sent to more. Photo by Will Trlak Puerto Rico, with the suggested There were significant dona- Students learn dances at Latinx Night in Payton’s new dance studio. @PaytonNews entrance fee of $4. tions collected towards Hurricane “The event is a place for peo- Maria relief. but it was great to see all of the stu- cause. For me, the best moment PRINCIPAL ple to learn about Latinx cultures Olivia Klein, who is also a part dents enjoying themselves.” was when we all ate! The food was Tim Devine through activities and food, sup- of the Sociedad Honoraria His- Will Trlak ‘18 also states, “It delicious, and it meant the end of a ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL port a good cause, and destress af- pánica said, “The event was really was awesome to see so many peo- great event.” David Adamji ter a long day of school,” said Will fun. My favorite part was the food, ple in support of such an important DIR. OF STUDENT ENGAGEMENT Erica Bauer Slammin’ Summer Songs EDITOR-IN-CHIEF BY NYARAI KHEPRA Staff Writer Julianna Ritzu 1. “All The Stars” - and Looking for some playlist 22.“Feel It Still” STAFF WRITERS SZA -Portugal. The Man TJ Boland inspo? Here are the thirty- Benjamin Brokemond Tajuan Brown 2. “Moon River” four tracks we haven’t been 23. “Piggy Back” -Frank Ocean -Melanie Martinez Hank Fritzmann able to get enough of lately. Jayden Gail Mairead Gergeni 3. “You Don’t Even 24. “Personal” Grant Hauskins Know” -HRVY S. Jester -The Internet Nyarai Khepra 25. “I Like Me Better” Kalimah Lane 4.“Dark Skin Women” -Lauv Ben Lohman -Goldlink Matthew Marchbanks 26.“Open Arms” Coleman McJessy Clara Muffitt 5.“Naked” -PRETTYMUCH Hannah Martin -Ella Mai Kimberly Martinez 27. “ Pick It Up” David Nevels 6. “Falling” Short -Famous Dex ft. ASAP Pablo Padilla -Lapsley Rocky Luis Perez Janiyah Rice 7. “Mad Over You” 28. “American Boy” Jasmyne Rivera - Nana Fofie -Estelle ft. Hope Rogers Ahmad Shamseldin 8. “Eye.Me” 29.“Broken Clocks” Hannibal Shane - and -SZA Sidrah Tariq Kevin Tracy Photo by Paw Print Staff Mack Weisinger 9. “Tru” Mauricio Aguilar ‘19 creates and produces his own beats in the 30.“Come Through and Jonathan Zhanay -Lloyd Production seminar. Chill” -Miguel ft. J.Cole 10. “Computer Luv” 14. “Baby” 18. “Fool in the Rain” FACULTY ADVISOR - and Steve -Monte Booker and Ravyn -Led Zeppelin 31.“Hollaback Girl” Michelle Dueñas Mowery Lacy Lenae -Gwen Stefani [email protected] 19. “Sabotage” 11. “Honey” 15. “Bleach” -Beastie Boys 32. “Chanel” - -BROCKHAMPTON -Frank Ocean 20. “Bartier Cardi” 12. “Men In Black” 16. “If I Ruled the World” -Cardi B 33. “Stir Fry” -Will Smith - -Migos 21.“Tell Me You Love Me” 13. “Can’t Stop Dancing” 17. “Crew” -Demi Lovato 34. “Sorry” -Becky G -Goldlink -Beyoncé PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 NEWS/FEATURES 3 Identity: Questioning gender and sexuality BY MAIREAD GERGENI Staff Writer Paw Print interviewed seven peo- be like, ‘It’s okay to question, it’s PP: “What would you want to ple (who use first initials here for okay to… be uncertain of who you share with questioning or pre- anonymity) about identity: like.’” questioning people?” C, bisexual; E said, “If I was bi or gay or E, pansexual; pan or whatever I would know it, C said, “Don’t worry if you L, agender or gender neutral; right? But in my immediate [situa- don’t know what you are… even A, nonbinary; tion] there were people who didn’t if you think you’re one thing at K, transgender; know and were open about it.” one point it’s okay to identify as and K, nonbinary. something else at another point. PP: “How did you feel before You don’t have to seek valida- Paw Print: “When did you start you started questioning?” tion for your own feelings because questioning?” your feelings themselves are valid. L said, “I didn’t feel any dif- For me, if I don’t have a crush on Most interviewed began ques- ferent necessarily, it wasn’t like I a girl at a time I sometimes think tioning in elementary school. For changed as a person the moment I I might be straight, but that’s not many, being around other LGBT realized I didn’t really want to be a something you should think, in- people helped them begin ques- boy or a girl.” stead you should continue know- tioning. This was a common senti- ing you’ve had crushes on girls C said, “I started questioning… ment. A, bisexual, said, “I felt before and you don’t need to seek when I found out that gay people pretty confident in the idea that put another crush in order to jus- were a thing. I originally identified I was straight… it’s lowkey self- tify feelings.” as ‘lesbian and straight’ because I homophobia where… I supported Others said, “You don’t have to Photo from customink.com didn’t know that bi people were a the gay community, but if I were to find a label right away.” The Gender Equality for Teens (GET) conference was held on April thing.” be gay or if I felt like I had feelings L said, “Never force it down. 21 at Payton and hosted seminars for over 100 students. Many sup- K, transgender, said, “That’s for a girl, I would try and stomp Never tell yourself that it’s just a porters ordered T-shirts to fund the cause. a hard question… because ‘when those feelings out because I felt as phase or something will change did you start questioning your though they were wrong and I felt because let’s face it, even if it is most everyone interviewed. of gay rights they are not what- gender’ is more like ‘when did you guilty about it.” a phase, that is a whole section K, transgender, said the trans soever… I have not come out to find out that gender is a thing.’” of your life that you can’t just ig- community on YouTube is helpful. my parents, but I love my parents. E said, “I did end up getting a PP: “How did you feel during nore.” L said, “Look for people in your They’re good people who raised crush on a girl in… ninth grade questioning?” A, nonbinary, said, “It’s really community. We’re more there than me, but they do harbor some very and I guess that’s when I realized easy to let what other people say you think we are.” homophobic insights. He was like, that I was not straight and then af- Others said, “[It was] kind of make you think it’s just a phase or E said, “The most useful ones ‘I guess gay people are okay but ter that I started remembering all terrifying. I didn’t think I was al- not real.” are people saying things from their I think bi people are the worst of the times as a kid that I had friend lowed to be anything besides a experience because it’s easy to them all because you can’t have crushes and when I just felt things girl.” PP: “What are some signs some- find scientific proof, but it’s much the best of both worlds, you can’t about girls that were basically one might be … and not know it better for you to hear what you’re have everything, you need to make crushes, but I didn’t say they were PP: “How did you feel after yet?” feeling said by another person.” up your mind, either one or the crushes because freaking hetero- questioning?” K, nonbinary, recommends other and I think that bi people are normativity!” L said, “Hey, I don’t really like wildfang.com which makes an- just confused.’” A, bisexual, said, “I still do when people call me a lady… I drogynous clothing: “I recom- A, nonbinary, said, “I still don’t PP: “What made you question? have that internalized homopho- don’t really like the title of ‘girl.’” mend finding media with people really have a name.” Was there a specific event or did bia. I think it’s not as bad as it was Although this is only touched with your identity in it and meet- E said, “I cut my hair at the the you always know?” prior.” on here, heteronormativity, cisnor- ing other people like you.” beginning of this year it was long Others said, “More confident” mativity, internalized homopho- and people before have asked me, Many people knew but just and “actually really good.” bia/biphobia, and/or internalized PP: “Any stories about coming ‘Do you have a boyfriend?’ ‘Do didn’t have words for what they transphobia can slow down the out?” you have a man?’ ‘Do you have felt. PP: “How did it resolve? Was process of self-discovery, accord- a boy?’ and exactly from the mo- A, nonbinary, said, “I was com- there a sudden realization or ing to some. Try talking to other C said, “When I came out to my ment I cut my hair, ‘Oh, do you ing out of the classroom and they did you just become more con- LGBT people about this if you parents, my dad didn’t have that have a boyfriend or a girlfriend?’ were like, ‘ladies first’ and I just fident?” need help. good of a reaction to it because al- ‘Oh, do you have a partner?’” felt vastly uncomfortable.” A, bisexual, said, “It resolved though he has gay friends, he nev- C, bisexual, said, “A lot of my in freshman year when I came out PP: “What are some good re- er really thought that his daughter Questioning? Join QSA, which close friends came out to me as to the first group of people… when sources for … people?” would be gay.” meets every Friday during enrich- questioning or came out to me as I said ‘I’m bi,’ it felt right to me.” A, bisexual, said, “My parents ment. gay… that kind of prompted me to “The internet,” according to al- are pretty liberal but on the subject

Pharmacy deserts abound (continued from p. 1) BY JONATHAN ZHANAY Staff Writer to get medications and vaccines, this support than their nationwide- neighborhoods lacking in medi- organizations with communica- a constraint that makes access to chain counterparts, who are bet- cal services by lowering the sales tion, listed the advantages of being pharmacies and constant refills ter equipped to handle the loss taxes for supplying resources in convenient to patients and direct. significantly smaller. in revenue, leading independent these areas. The cost of implementing ei- Tax increment financing (TIF) pharmacies to close due to com- Another solution is to craft for- ther of these solutions would be is a public financing method used petition. mal policy intended to keep chain covered by the lower healthcare to subsidize redevelopment, infra- The result is a lower number pharmacies from shuttering in costs created as a byproduct of structure, and other community of pharmacies servicing the city- neighborhoods most adversely af- hospital visits, insurance cover- improvement projects, including wide population, and when chain fected by their closure. ages, and less productivity. providing financial assistance to pharmacies close stores to lower A delivery service created in pharmacies. costs, the availability of pharma- partnership with the pharmacy Most independently owned cies is drastically limited. could transport medication to pharmacies don’t receive this Historically, there have been a those unable to leave their homes Photo by Paw Print Staff funding, despite the areas they op- number of proposed solutions to at a reduced price than those erate. mitigate this problem. charged by regular delivery ser- Pharmacies provide much Pharmacies servicing lower One proposed by the City of vices. needed care in prescriptions as income neighborhoods generate Chicago is to incentivize inde- This service was proposed by well as products for neighbor- significantly less profit without pendent pharmacies to operate in Telepharm, which helps healthcare hoods.

4 CLASS OF ‘18 PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 Class of 2018: #SNRSZN Senioritis: Without a cure, how many seniors will survive? BY MATTHEW MARCHBANKS Staff Writer As flu season comes to a close, common symptoms: increased fa- students at Walter Payton are at tigue, decreased focus, and a gen- risk of experiencing the danger- eral lack of motivation. ous, widespread outbreak of a dis- “I don’t want to be here any- ease without any knowable cure: more, every day I just look for- Senioritis. ward to enrichment,” said Emilio An annual illness, the number Rodriguez, Class of 2018. of cases of Senioritis greatly in- An indicator of how many stu- creases in the weeks immediately dents have senioritis can also be following the end of the first -se estimated by counting the number mester, a period commonly re- of students who fall asleep over ferred to as the “senior slump.” the course of the day. As indicated by its name (the The effects of senioritis vary scientific term “Senioritis”),- se in their severity, but will undoubt- niors in particular are hit hard by edly lead to a drop in either grades the adverse effects of this conta- or attendance, if not both. gion. Though seasonal, steps can be Studies have shown that this taken to avoid succumbing to Se- surge directly correlates with the nioritis. end of the college process for If the signs of Senioritis are Photos by Grant Hauskins and Paw Print Staff The SNR SZN seniors versus faculty basketball game tipped off senior events on May 23 after seminars in the West Gym. Faculty made an excellent showing with MVP Adamji making six 3-point shots. But the se- niors won the game as they showed the teachers what’s good in the ultimate showdown. PROM glitters at the Drake

Photos by Michael Haran and Matthew Marchbanks Many seniors can be found staring into space in the hallway or sleeping in class. If you witness this behavior, notify the hotline listed below as soon as possible. these seniors. observed in their beginning stag- “After I came back to school es, measures can still be taken from winter break, I realized how to prevent this contagion from pointless it all is,” said Xavier Es- worsening in the future. The most calante ‘18. commonly spotted symptoms During winter, high school of Senioritis include the overuse seniors concluded their applica- of the hashtag #snrszn, intermit- tions to college and received long- tently missing advisory, and the awaited early admissions deci- increased use of the phrase “it be sions. like that.” The responses from colleges, in The most successful methods particular, have been identified as of reversing the damage of Se- the foremost carrier for Senioritis. nioritis are those that put the in- Once seniors come into contact dividual in a mindset that differs with the acceptance letter, it im- from the one formed while they mediately infects them, leaving were infected by this disease. them disarmed and with a 100% Being responsible and work- likelihood of developing full- ing hard without burning out will blown Senioritis. build up a resistance to Senioritis Once Senioritis is contracted in so that it won’t sidetrack you or its entirety, there is no going back. destroy your life again. Students will go through a predict- If you or a loved one able set of symptoms that work in tandem with one another as the in- shows signs of seniori- fection spreads to their brains. tis, immediately call Ailing students can usually be identified by displaying some the support hotline at combination of the three most 1-034-SEN-IORS. PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 CLASS OF ‘18 5 Class of 2018: #SNRSZN How to survive your first year BY JASMYNE RIVERA Staff Writer Here is a list of tips and tricks for surviving your first year at Pay- ton, created by the experts, our Payton seniors.

1. First thing’s first, be yourself! You might feel pressured to do anything to fit in or to be “cool.” Don’t worry about that at all. As long as you’re being yourself, the right group of friends will come to you.

2. If you’re afraid you might not make any friends or it might be too difficult meeting people with the same interests as you, join one (or more) of the many clubs we have at Payton during en- richment!

3. If you’re struggling to raise your grades, or even having dif- ficulties trying to understand a concept in one of your classes, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. There are numerous resources around Payton that are aimed to help you succeed -- your teach- ers, NHS tutors, your counselors, and even your friends. There’s always somebody willing to help, without judgement. Photos by Grant Hauskins and Paw Print Staff The SNR SZN seniors versus faculty basketball game tipped off senior events on May 23 4. You know that geometry homework that they say is optional? after seminars in the West Gym. Faculty made an excellent showing with MVP Adamji making six 3-point shots. But the se- Don’t treat it as such, DO IT. I promise you it comes in handy. You niors won the game as they showed the teachers what’s good in the ultimate showdown. might be less confused in class, and you won’t be struggling to get your grades up towards the end of the year.

PROM glitters at the Drake 5. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! This is an issue many Payton Students face; don’t let it be an issue you have to deal with. Being able to efficiently manage your time is key.

6. Make sure you sign up for enrichments ahead of time! After 1:05 the selenium portal closes for students, and you are no longer able to choose an enrichment. You don’t wanna be left without an enrichment!

7. Bring a sweater to every class! The building gets a little chilly; it seems like they always have the air conditioner on, ex- cept when it doesn’t work. Just do yourself a favor and bring a sweater so you aren’t cold.

8. Bring snacks as well. Class can feel like it’s been going on forever especially if you’re hungry. Most teachers at Payton are very lenient about letting students eat in class, while others have rules about specific things you can eat in class. If you aren’t sure, don’t be afraid to ask.

9. Don’t take an AP class just for the AP credit, take it because you are genuinely interested in the subject. This is a major key because you don’t want to be stuck in a class you dislike because you wanted that one AP credit. Take the class because you’re in- terested in the subject, and it’ll help you do better in the class overall.

10. Lastly, be sure you use the up-stairs to go up, and the down- stairs to go down, and don’t stand around the hallways trying to have a conversation while people are rushing to class. This helps Photos courtesy of Gracie Gonza- prevent the “traffic” buildup in the hallways, and helps everyone lez, Kiana Lai, Sarah Jester, Grant Hauskins, Ms. Spencer, and Paw get to their next class on time. Print Staff. 6 OPINION PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 Point/Counterpoint: Is the stress at Payton worth it for the ‘increased opportunity’ to succeed? BY BEN LOHMAN BY COLEMAN MCJESSY Staff Writer Staff Writer I think my academic experience at Payton has been more negative than it has been posi- If there is one thing that most Payton students can agree on, it is that Payton has a tive. Payton is known for being a school of academic excellence and for being a very rigor- stressful culture, whose high expectations warrant frequent complaints, both academic and ous environment. Payton has an expectation of how smart their students need to be, which otherwise. Indeed, feelings of inadequacy are completely understandable at a school like is unrealistic given that Payton’s student population comes from many different types of Payton, whose high-caliber education is reflected in a schoolwide average ACT score of 30, communities, schooling backgrounds, and differences in access to a quality education. I a student body where 87% of sophomores, juniors, and seniors take AP classes, and where think that not being able to perform at the level that Payton expects us to in different sub- many of these students eventually receive early acceptances to Ivy League institutions; jects has had an adverse effect on my overall academic experience. such accolades that most recently resulted in Payton being ranked the best public high For example, if a student struggles in math, but is forced to take an honors math class, school in the U.S. by Niche. then all their other courses will be negatively impacted as a result of them trying to do well In the Class of 2017 alone, one student recited poetry at the White House, another spoke in one challenging course. before the United Nations, and a third started multiple non-profits. Payton is preceded I expected Payton to be challenging, obviously, but what I didn’t expect was the harsh by these impressive numbers, statistics, and stories, inviting envy from many other high academic culture. Before Payton, I believed that getting a B in a class was a “good” grade, schools and fierce competition for admission, as every student who has attended Payton and that not getting straight As wasn’t the end of the world, so I think discovering Payton’s knows. actual academic environment was pretty disappointing. But these impressive accolades and outstanding learning opportunities come at a cost. During my freshman year, Payton’s school spirit was pretty horrible, although I knew a Many, if not all Payton students, particularly seniors, would classify the overall atmo- little bit about that beforehand. Over the last three years, Payton’s school spirit has grown sphere here as stressful. Living up to Payton standard is far from easy, requiring a rarely tremendously. Students attend sporting events, go to school dances, and represent Payton attainable level of accomplishment both inside and outside of the classroom. Although with pride, which I’m happy about and which the school lacked when I was a freshman. the administration has tried to reduce this stress, be it with the “Payton Pause,” the Mood I think one of my biggest sources of stress has been due to the culture at Payton. Every- Meter,” or any of the new mental-health based faculty, I doubt many would say it has been one expects you to have top notch grades, have at least a 30 on your ACT, and put school effective at truly combating the stress. before anything else. Another casualty of Walter Payton, is, perhaps ironically, our school spirit and This environment has definitely been toxic to my mentality towards academics. Other “traditional” high school experience. Football and basketball games rarely have more than students have been in disbelief when I’ve told them I didn’t get an A in a class, or that I one hundred attendees, a pitiful number compared to the packed stadiums and gyms of didn’t want to attend an Ivy League school. other CPS schools like Lane Tech. Our only all-school dance is Homecoming, and even Payton’s culture puts pressure on students to exceed expectations in every subject and though we have continually tried to have another dance in the winter, it has always failed also get into top colleges, and if you don’t meet all of these expectations, you’re automati- due to a lack of student interest. Perhaps this is due to a lack of school spirit, or perhaps it cally viewed as a failure. is actually a self-selection problem, where students who can test into Payton just aren’t fans Payton should offer regular level classes. Just because we are a top-of-the-line school of large social gatherings. doesn’t mean that every student performs at an Honors level in every subject. If you’re a I recognize that this is typically the part of a critical essay where someone would “math wiz” but really struggle with writing, you shouldn’t have to struggle through a year bemoan the pressure we’re under, and talk about how much it hurts us because surely no of Honors level English when you realistically can’t perform at that level. experience or education could possibly be worth such strain on our mental health. I had gotten into Whitney Young and Notre Dame College Prep before using Principal’s However, I disagree wholeheartedly. I believe such academic, social, and other external Discretion to get into Payton. Looking back, I am glad that I chose Payton. sacrifices made are completely worth it in the long run, particularly in the collegiate and I wouldn’t have gotten the opportunity to play all of the sports I wanted and wouldn’t professional spheres. The statistics I opened with are much more than simply statistics; have received a quality football program at Whitney. I also think Notre Dame would have they’re indicators of post-graduate success. been tough being all boys. Last year, 99% of Payton students attended a four-year university, and numerous Pay- A skill I gained while at Payton was definitely learning how to deal with academic ad- ton Alumni have attended some of the most prestigious colleges across the country and versity. I learned how to be able to thrive in situations that were tough for me and to push the world. Attending colleges sets up students for success, especially in their professional myself to study for classes that were difficult for me. This skill is extremely applicable to lives. A superior education from a prestigious institution enables students to pursue almost college, the working world, and outside life in general. any path they want. Being at Payton also taught me how to be successful because attending a school with I firmly believe that struggling for these four years is more than worth the experi- the brightest students in the country makes it easy to learn from each other and learn useful ences and future we are sure to receive because of it.After Payton, I plan to go to a four- skills. Overall , I do think the skills and lessons I’ve acquired over the last four years are year college, and eventually hopefully law school. currently and will continue to be a positive factor in my success. I would tell an incoming Payton student that while many students choose to either care I would tell incoming students to not be close-minded. Allow yourself to be open to any about school a ton, or focus on social experiences a ton, it is definitely possible to experi- kind of help and support. Payton is filled with positive and useful mentors, teachers, and ence both without committing to one. tutors. There are plenty of resources within this school, so keep all your options open.

BYThe S. JESTER Truth About N.E.R.D. Will Set You Free...Maybe Staff Writer You’ve probably heard of perhaps the group’s most prolific Frank Ocean, the song describes the result being that “Deep Down become muddled in the repeti- before, and you to date. how Scott was waiting in his car Body Thurst” falls rather short of tive, looping samples which com- might have recognized his voice N.E.R.D. began teasing the al- with his wife to pick his child up the eloquent “Don’t Don’t Do It” pose the track. in a song called “Lemon” that has bum a few weeks before its release from the school bus after school, in its ability to convey a political The remainder of the album received frequent radio airplay in when they dropped “Lemon,” when he was approached by police message lyrically. is comprised of well-produced, the past few months. an upbeat and expertly produced officers. As they told him to put his Dexterous mixing and a second catchy tracks that include impres- What you may not know much track featuring Rihanna. The hands up, his wife pleaded, “Don’t feature from Kendrick nearly save sive feature artists, but seem to about is the history of the group track’s release was accompanied don’t do it,” hence the track’s titu- “Kites,” and yet, the verse suc- lack the strength of subject matter behind this new track, and their by a captivating in lar inspiration. ceeding Kendrick’s is delivered by and lyricism displayed through- brand new album. N.E.R.D., an which Rihanna is shown giving Kendrick’s powerful verse M.I.A., a pairing that proves ulti- out “Don’t Don’t Do It.” acronym for No-one Ever Re- dancer Mette Towley a buzz-cut highlights the racist and devastat- mately unsuccessful. As Jayson Greene put it in his ally Dies, released their self-titled before she performs an enthralling ing nature of police brutality, not- While Kendrick once again review of N.E.R.D.’s album in December following a dance routine created by none oth- ing that America’s inherent racism presents a meaningful commentary “Nothing,” “[N.E.R.D. is] typi- seven year hiatus. er than Beyonce’s choreographer, has not changed over time in lines on revolution and rebellion in the cally a clearinghouse for Phar- Fronted by Williams, the group JaQuel Knight. like, “N*****, same rules, same current state of our nation, M.I.A. rell’s bad ideas.” also includes musicians Chad Aside from “Lemon,” the al- chalk / Different decade, same closes out the song by “letting off To be clear, “No-one Ever Re- Hugo and Shay Haley. Through bum’s standout track is “Don’t law.” kites over barriers,” a tenuous, in- ally Dies” is far from a bad al- their genre-blending Don’t Do It,” which features a Contrasting sharply with sufficient response which is all too bum—or a bad idea. It contains “In Search Of…,” “,” verse from Kendrick Lamar. Al- “Don’t Don’t Do It,” songs like similar to our country’s automated everything a good album should “,” and “Nothing,” though political undertones re- “Deep Down Body Thurst” and disaster response of “thoughts and contain: expert production and the group has cemented itself as a main decidedly weaker through- “Kites” take much weaker stabs prayers.” “Rollinem 7’s,” another mixing, a unique twist on mul- pioneer of the rap-rock genre. out the rest of the project, “Don’t at showcasing political stances. offering from the album featuring tiple genres, skillful songwriting, Enter “No-one Ever Really Don’t Do It” is a strong, politically Making references in the former André 3000 of Outkast, follows and Rihanna. Dies,” N.E.R.D.’s newest project. charged song. It centers around to plans to “climb [Trump’s] wall” a similar pattern, speaking quite However, the project’s down- With guest verses from the likes Keith Lamont Scott, a black man and the “way [Trump] treats Is- briefly of coming together and fall resides within its lack of a of Gucci Mane, Future, Kendrick who was fatally shot by a police lam,” N.E.R.D. attempts to for- making a group of voices heard. unifying message, an oversight Lamar, Andre 3000, and most officer in North Carolina in 2016. mulate a political statement with- However, this message and André that renders much of the album surprisingly, , it is Co-written and co-produced by out actually saying much at all, 3000’s surprisingly concise verse unsalvageable. PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 SPECIAL OLYMPICS 7 Special Olympics Kim’s Corner: Soccer skills unified basketball special report on the scene BY DAVID NEVELS BY KIMBERLY MARTINEZ Staff Writer Staff Writer In the first Special Olympics unified basketball game at Payton, Pay- It was a foggy morning but that friend and classmate from elemen- photo opt. Seeing Kasandra was ton won against Sullivan High School. didn’t stop the 200 Chicago Pub- tary school had just walked in. She the best part of my day. In the second game Lincoln Park played against Whitney Young High lic School athletes with disabili- and her team had maroon warms- Afterward Ms. Spencer gave School. Whitney Young won the second game. ties from competing in the Special up emblazoned with their school me a gold medal for my reporting In the third game, Sullivan won against Lincoln Park. In the final Olympics soccer skills program. mascot the Eagle. work and journalism. She said I game, Payton played Whitney Young. One of the players passed the ball Twelve different schools ar- I jumped at the opportunity to earned it. to me, and I shot the ball and made it! rived on busses to Chicago Sports interview her. Turns out Kasandra So now I’m on the bus. The fog Even though the Payton team tried hard, Whitney Young won the final Complex on the Southside. Excite- is now a freshman at North Grand has lifted and so have my spirits. game with a score of 16 to 28. ment was in the air. High School. The first question I Friendship and athletics are such It was fun at the Special Olympics unified basketball game. Our very own senior Luis Per- asked her was how she feels, and an important part of life. Sure ez finished with a GOLD medal. she said happy and smiled ear-to- some athletes earned gold today He is now eligible to travel down- ear. She worked hard today too. (including me in an unusual way) state and represent the Grizzlies Despite getting several goals and while others did not, but we all had this summer if he wants. earning a 90% average in kicking a fantastic time in the spirit of the My day had an unexpected skills, she placed 4th in her divi- sport. start. Despite the energy at the sion, earning a ribbon. Competi- I saw so many other high school games inside, I was sad. I already tion was intense. student athletes working hard and cried quite a bit before we left for I learned a lot today. Special giving it their all. The competition the trip. I’d learned earlier that Olympics is about so much more was fierce and usually is at these due to a paperwork error with my than the sports. In this case it type of events. physical, I would not be compet- had the power to reunite two old And although I didn’t actually ing today. This was tough news to friends. That made me feel joyful. kick a ball today I can say that take. Seeing Kasandra and celebrat- I felt the joy Special Olympics So instead of lacing up my soc- ing her skills ribbon was the best. brings. It makes me feel good to cer shoes, I sat with my teammate The Special Olympics staff even think I’ll be back here to cheer my and planned who I’d interview and allowed me on the turf field to classmates on when they have soc- what questions I’d ask. take pictures of athletes. During cer team’s competition. Then my day took a slightly the award ceremony I waited un- Now I’m falling asleep on the different turn. I looked up from til they called her name. Then she bus and thinking life is great when my picnic table and saw a famil- and I ran through the tunnel of things are perfectly imperfect. Photo by Yasman Hernandez iar face. Kasandra Alverez my old volunteers’ hands to the winner’s 8 SUMMER PAW PRINT MAY/JUNE 2018 Pitchfork vs. : Who to see, who to skip BY S. JESTER Staff Writer Summer is just around the corner, which means that suburban teen- agers are gearing up to (loudly) travel to the city for Pitchfork and Lol- lapalooza. If you find yourself among them this July or August, here’s a handy guide for which acts to see and which to skip at these popular musical festivals.

Pitchfork Day 1: See: , Syd, , Open Mike Eagle Pitchfork Day 2: See: Blood Orange, Kelela, Raphael Saadiq, Moses Sumney Pitchfork Day 3: See: Ms. , Noname, (Sandy) Alex G, , Japanese Break- fast, Ravyn Lenae

If you’re choosing one day to attend, Day 3 is a hands-down standout. The acclaimed Ms. Lauryn Hill is embarking on a tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, and this performance cannot be missed. Day 3 also turns the spotlight on up-and- coming Chicago artists Noname, Smino, and Ravyn Lenae.

Lollapalooza Day 1: See: Travis Scott, , Billie Eilish, G Herbo Skip: Arctic Monkeys, Supa Bwe Lollapalooza Day 2: See: Tyler the Creator, Brockhampton, Parquet Courts, Skip: The Neighbourhood Lollapalooza Day 3: See: St. Vincent, LL Cool J, Daniel Caesar, Goldlink, Tank and the Bangas Skip: Lil Pump Lollapalooza Day 4: See: Jack White, Kali Uchis, Rex Orange County, Knox Fortune

Day 2 and Day 3 are competing for the best lineup here. Tyler the Cre- ator and Brockhampton, both power acts in their own ways, will almost certainly dominate the day. On the other hand, St. Vincent and Daniel Caesar both put on compelling, unique performances, and the winners of NPR’s 2017 Tiny Desk Contest, Tank and the Bangas, are sure to draw a crowd. TJ BOLAND GRAPHIC BY Make your ‘Gram a Slam with these photo locations BY TJ BOLAND Staff Writer Summer is upon us Payton. NORTHERLY ISLAND ARCHITECTURAL With the warm weather and fun in Connected to the Adler Planetari- ARTIFACTS the sun, a new stressor never fails um, Northerly Island provides gor- A favorite of @vvgibby, this store to appear: the fight for the summer geous skyline sunset views set in offers thousands of found items, Instagram that slays harder than nature, unparalleled by anywhere and an owner willing to let you those of all your classmates and else in the city. climb all over them. It’s like a jun- the random suburbans you some- gle gym for your feed. how inexplicably still follow. CHICAGO RIVERWALK How can you win this battle Centrally located, the riverwalk LURIE GARDEN and take an excellent photo? Ac- provides a dynamic ever-changing An urban botanic garden that is cording to Veronica Gibson ‘19, background, one which will surely often a forgotten treasure in Mil- “one of the most important things not be on you feed every day (un- lenium Park. Sure to produce awe- is probably lighting.” like the ledge). some nature shots with skyscrap- Gibson, whose photography ers in the background. Photo from flikr.com Instagram @vvgibby has acquired ADLER PLANETARIUM The Chicago Riverwalk lights up any instagram. more than 1600 followers for its Check their website for free ad- SOUTH POND PROMONTORY POINT in the process. vibrant and dynamic photography mission days, and add some as- The iconic wooden structure on The best view of the city, in the says that good natural lighting can tronomy knowledge to your photo the north end of the pond has been city, this park provides the perfect Wherever you choose to photo- “allow a person’s good features trip. Any photo here is bound to be featured in countless instas since alternative to overdone ledge pics. graph this summer be sure to re- to come through” and “lighting just the right combination of icon- its conception for a reason, it’s the member Gibson’s favorite rule for makes you skin look good and ic yet basic. perfect background for any shot. GARFIELD PARK photos: “Never limit yourself to brings out vibrant colors in eyes CONSERVATORY your plan. Some of my best photos and hair.” MONTROSE BEACH WABASH ARTS CORRIDOR One of the largest conservatories were taken in the moment.” Where can you find the elusive Who needs LA when you can nail Located in the area around Jones, in the nation, the park offers pho- Good light along with an aban- good light? Here are locations the classic beach photo steps away the Wabash Arts Corridor has mu- tographers the opportunity to trav- donable strong plan all but guar- almost guaranteed to make your from the city? rals designed to interact with the el the world through botany and antee that your ‘gram will not be ‘gram a slam. community a.k.a. your camera. produce some quality instagrams only a slam, but a home run.