Thursday, September 28, 2017 Vol. 44 No. 1

Convocation marks start of school year by Haley Gervino ’18 Ava Cashman and Jack Decker. technology so we can connect He then presented the more on a personal level,” Mrs. Kingswood Oxford’s annual senior shield to senior Presi- Demers said. “This new rule will Convocation took place on Sept. dent Mark Place and senior be for assemblies and advisee 5, marking the official begin- Vice-president Noah Gibson. group. Let’s get more communi- ning of the 2017-2018 school Senior head prefect cation between our community.” year. The assembly brought Skylar Barron addressed Senior Ben Tauber the entire school together to the school with a discussion then introduced the chosen commemorate those who won on the importance of effort. speaker, Bradley Hoffman ’78. prizes, present other honors, and “My mom always told me Ben mentioned Mr. Hoff- listen to a variety of speakers. she’d be proud of me even if I man’s credentials and spoke Dux Prizes were given came home with straight D’s but briefly about his time at KO. out to those who had the tried my absolute best,” she said. Mr. Hoffmann concluded highest GPA in their forms. She ended her speech the assembly by reflecting on In Upper Prep, Elias Brant by explaining how she wanted how KO influenced his life. won; in Form 1, Sung Min Cho; every student to try their best. “I He started off explaining in Form 2, Olivia Pear and challenge all of you to make the how he came to KO. “I initially Emma Henry; in Form 3, Esha greatest amount of effort going didn’t want to go because I didn’t Kataria; in Form 4, Mia Seymour; into this school year,” she said. want to leave my friends,” he in Form 5, Apara Kashyap. Associate Head of said. “On the first day off school, Mr. Bisgaard presents the 2018 Class Flag to seniors Sharif Mutasim and Head of School Dennis School Natalie Demers spoke I got on the wrong bus and all Carolyn Doyle at the Convocation Assembly. Photo by Jacqueline Pasani. Bisgaard presented the class flags. along with Mr. Bisgaard. my friends from my old school Seniors Sharif Mutasim and They both mentioned made fun of my suit and tie.” me and I regret that,” he said. “If The KO administration Carolyn Doyle received the 2018 the importance of community, Mr. Hoffman continued I could go back to high school I encouraged the student body as class flag, having amassed the restated the Kingswood Oxford to talk about how he was influ- would take every opportunity.” well as the faculty to use the oppor- most community service hours. Mission statement and introduced enced once he got to KO. He implored students to grab tunity of a new year to disconnect Mr. Bisgaard also presented new regulations on cell phones. “I personally didn’t take all every opportunity by the horns and come together as one in order to the 2024 class flag to sixth-graders “I want to disconnect from the opportunities that KO presented and try something new this year. pursue a better space for everyone. KO administration revives midterm exams by Hannah Bash ’18 science teachers Tim Allerton Ms. McKee expressed sense of consistency,” he said. the language exam, which was and Alex Kraus, Spanish teacher the faculty’s concern for the “Pedagogically, it didn’t supposed to take place when The KO community has and Academic Technology students well being before really make sense to have exams at school first resumed in January. seen various changes and addi- Coordinator Juan Martinez, break. “The committee reallyt the end of the year and not halfway As of right now the schedule tions since the start of this year, English teacher Ron Monroe, wanted to do what was best through as well. Also midterms give for midterms has language placed and the most shocking one of all Upper School math Department for the kids because there was freshman in particular a learning first on November 14, then might be the return of midterms. Chair Sandra Goss, and Dean of so much stress before break.” experience to prepare for finals.” history on November 20, math on Starting on Nov. 14, students will Students Will Gilyard. Director In addition, Mrs. Demers The committee met twice December 5, and lastly science begin taking midterm assess- of Academic Planning Carolyn said that various KO graduates over the summer with the task on December 12. The midterm ments again, which haven’t McKee headed the committee. expressed that it was hard to take of creating a schedule that would for English classes has been set been seen at KO since 2012. There is not one particular exams in college after not having a account for the five academic aside for the entire week after According to various reason for why midterms have major assessment for a year and a classes. “The staff wanted to create Thanksgiving break, allowing teachers, the conversation about returned but rather a variety of half. “Since we are a college prep a way in which each class had the for teachers to assign a paper, bringing back midterms has existed reasons pertaining to class time school, it is not good if the gradu- ability to assess in a way that works oral presentation, or harkness for several years amongst faculty lost, student life, and the college ates last took an exam a year and for their subject, whether that be discussion during class time. members. However, teachers preparatory aspect of our school. half ago going into college,” she oral presentations, papers, hark- Assessments will take place spoke at length about the possi- One of the main reasons is said. “Having an exam twice a nesses, or labs,” said Mrs. Demers from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m., with a 30 bility of midterms at the end-of- that faculty members wanted to year better reflects the exam expe- The proposal was presented minute advisee period following it. year faculty meeting this past June. help relieve the stress and chaos rience in college and creates the in August at the opening faculty After each assessment, there will There needed to be a most students feel in the week opportunity for students to show meeting, and after some minor also be three classes for students proposal, so faculty members leading up to winter break. Mrs. their best during the year as well.” suggestions the schedule was set. to attend, but no homework will volunteered to be on the Demers said that faculty tried Mr. Monroe also added According to Mr. Monroe, the be due in those classes to ensure committee. These faculty members putting a calendar in the staff lounge to the list of reasons. “Our final schedule was pretty close that students have adequate time were Associate Head of School to avoid the overlap of assessments thinking also came from the to the original. One of the major to study for their assessments. Natalie Demers, Upper School before break, but it didn’t work. fact that there needed to be a changes was the movement of Continued on page 16 What’s Inside this Issue: OPINIONS ARTS FEATURES IN-DEPTH SPORTS Cell phones Actress Remy KO welcomes An honest Field hockey banned in McCoy new faculty look at starts season assembly, shines bright in and staff with acedemic strong, recovers advisee group Paris open arms dishonesty from last year page 6 page 9 pages 12 and 13 page 15 page 18 THURSDAY THURSDAY September 28, 2017 SeptemberSeptember 28,28, 2017 2 News Editorials 2017 3 All communications are down! by Benjamin Small ’19 before on the first couple days, just being tions. “I completely agree that phones should ties as phones during advisee group.“I there and no one else talking at all. It’s not be used in advisee group to send messages think it’s kind of pointless because people The KO administration instituted kind of awkward at times if you’re not to friends or take pictures and send them to can just pull out their computer or watch a new policy this year that prohibits the on your phone and everyone else is.” friends or check your social media,” said Mr. videos on their computers,” Nat said. use of cellphones in advisee group as Associate Head of School Natalie Baker. “But let’s say the advisee group wants Senior Angela Yang said that she well as before and during assemblies. Demers said that one of the goals of to play Kahoot, I think phones should be fine often needs to check her phone during Dean of Students William Gilyard said the ban is to prevent the kind of situ- because we’re doing something together.” advisee group. “Sometimes, I need to check that the goal of the cell phone ban is to foster ation Sam described.“In assembly, Students said they agreed. “I think the schedule with my phone,” she said. an environment of face-to-face conversa- you’d see all these people sitting next that they have a good point about discon- “You should be able to do work on your tions. “Those skills of being able to commu- to each other heads down,” she said. necting and getting to know people better,” phone when you need to. But I like the idea [of nicate, to articulate your ideas in a face-to- “And then in advisee group, we sit senior Nat Bates said. “However, I do think the policy] because I need help with the issue face manner seem to be dwindling,” he said. on our phones heads down. As we explore that technology can be used to connect of being on my phone too much,” she said. “There’s so much interfacing with our core values and as we explore building with people more. For example, in my Other students said they disagreed the internet and social media, I think community and what that means to us, we advisee group people use their phones with the ban because cell phones help we’re losing the art of getting to know really felt that it would be important to carve to talk about football players’ stats.” them relax. “I think the idea is good but each other without our phones,” he said. out some times during the day where we can Others said they thought that the ban you can’t really stop people from being Form 4 Dean David Baker said he actually look at each other and have conver- assumes that students are not responsible on their phones during advisee group,” agrees with the cell phone ban in assemblies. sations with each other and start to build enough to turn off their phones on their own. senior Alicia Henry said. “Also, some- “Our core values speak to respecting others community in those moments,” she said. “Students should be responsible enough to times you just want to be on your phone.” and caring beyond self,” he said. Form 3 Dean Kata Baker said she use cell phones when they want,”said junior Mrs. Demers said the administration “We have a responsibility to show agreed that certain points during the day Taline Norsigian. “The advisor shouldn’t recognized that students enjoy winding our respect for people who are presenting. lend themselves to in-person conversa- have to worry that students are going to down on their phones,“but there are Before the assembly starts, it’s important to tions. “Assembly and advisee are both be using them while they’re talking.” other times for that to happen,” she said. connect with each other instead of connecting natural points in the day when you have Sophomore Ishaa Sohail agreed. “I “It’s going to be tough, it’s going to with something so far away,” he said. a break from academics, so it’s a nice think [the ban] is really dumb, honestly,” be uncomfortable, but it really is in the best Students have varied opinions on time for community building,” she said. she said. “I know some teachers will take interest. So we need to try it,” she added. the ban. Some said they thought it was “You’re forced to talk to them away. I think a warning would be Mr. Gilyard said he thinks that the beneficial, whereas others said it was point- the people next you and have better. It’s your phone, just tell kids to turn ban is not unreasonable. He wants to less, and some even said it is a bad idea. actual conversations,” she added. them off when they need to be turned off.” emphasize that it is not by any means a “I think it’s a good thing,” junior Some students and faculty said they Another issue that students raised complete cell phone ban. “The amount Sam Mazo said. “I remember being in believe that in advisee group technology can was that computers, which were not of time we’re thinking about here [is] my advisee group last year and the year actually benefit not hinder in-person connec- banned, can be used for the same activi- maybe 75 minutes a week,” he said. Team Tobati turns 20 (KO)mposting Initiative by Haley Gervino ’18 by Benjamin Small ’19 In addition, KO has two other This upcoming March will composting containers.. “We also have mark the 20th anniversary of the Last year, a composting initia- two bins by the garden,” said Mr. Woerlan. service trip to Tobati, Paraguay. tive took root at KO. Science teacher “We save vegetable trimmings and make The mission of Team Tobati is Lisa Bailey, Food Services Coordinator compost for the garden with these bins.” to increase the opportunities offered Brian Woerlen, the Green Team, and the One obstacle of the project is contami- to the poor youth of Tobati, Paraguay Red KOw garden led the program, which nation, said Mrs. Bailey. “Ice cream wrappers and to offer young U.S. students the composted 13,770 pounds of food scraps. and ice cream cups have been a problem,” fantastic experience of working for a That amount is enough to offset she said. “But for the most part, people are greater good in the developing world. the emissions of 393 gallons of gaso- putting only things that need to be there.” “March 2018 will have to be bigger line, or 7,711 pounds of carbon dioxide. Founded in 2013, Blue Earth Work group enjoys the sun in Tobati. Photo by and better than anything we’ve done Compost’s mission is ultimately to combat Ali Meizels ’19. “Composting has many benefits,” before,” Spanish teacher Ronald Garcia said. said Mr. Woerlen. “Composting takes food waste by increasing “accessibility of “Projects will be bigger and better. Every- Throughout the week, students material out of the solid waste stream composting in Connecticut to improve our thing will be worthy of the anniversary.” and their work groups (including their and reduces methane gas. We then use air, water, and soil,” according to its website. Mr. Garcia said he encour- Paraguayan friends) practice a dance the compost in the garden to grow vege- The company says that the majority ages everyone to go this year. that they will perform at the Macchi tables that we serve in the dining hall.” of people and businesses want to do the “I think it’s important and educa- School in front of the entire town. Junior co-officer of the Garden Club right thing in terms of the environment; tional for the KO students to have this “I’m looking for more people and Green Team Taline Norsigian said she however, they lack the means to do so. experience with helping and working to join my team so we can get the believes in self-sufficiency. “[We’re] real- In America, food waste is a major with the Macchi School,” he said. trifecta,” senior Keegan Toland said. izing how much waste we produce, first of concern. According to Blue Earth Kingswood Oxford students will Last year Keegan led his team all, and, second of all, what that waste can Compost, up to 40 percent of food is be divided up into work groups and to win the dance competition for the be used for,” she said. “That’s sustaining thrown out every year. At the same time, home groups. In their work groups, second time.“Dancing was my favorite yourself and that’s really important.” 42 million Americans contend with hunger. students will spend the majority of because it was a nice way to connect KO’s composting project utilizes the A significant amount of the food waste their time doing tasks around Tobati, with the Paraguayans and those in my services of a company called Blue Earth in America occurs even before the consumer involving themselves with the community. group,” junior Katherine Mikaelson said. Compost. In the past, the company has sees the food. After harvesting, vegetables “Fuerza. We were a small team but Every night during the trip focused on residential composting. KO was its and fruits deemed too “unsightly” for sale we were really united and worked well there is always a special activity first commercial customer said Mrs. Bailey. are discarded. A movement called the Ugly together by the end of the trip,” senior Rob planned for all students involved. When the project started, only Fruit and Veg Campaign is currently trying Downes said about the trip last March. One night last year there was “pre-consumer” compost was used. “We to convince major food suppliers to change In their home groups, students are a giant arcade-like night where work started with pre-consumer compost—all their policies. The campaign has already placed in one of four homes where they groups competed in certain tasks to the scraps they got from the preparation gotten Whole Foods and Wal-Mart to change eat, sleep, and bond with their friends. win the title of “Best Work Group.” of the food,” said Mrs. Bailey. “[Head their views on “ugly” agricultural products. “I loved my home group because it “My favorite game was the slip of School Dennis] Bisgaard then gave However, some food waste is neces- let me get closer with last year’s seniors and slide because it was awesome us the green light to increase our level sary, such as the waste from food prepara- and everyone was extremely nice to live and funny to see my group fall down and do post-consumer composting.” tion. Putting food waste in a landfill is one with,” senior Christina Daniels said. “Most the homemade slide,” Colin said. In the cafeteria, there are one or two of the worst options. “It’s not just food we of them were also in my work group!” Mr. Garcia said he feels obligated to composting bins where students and faculty are throwing away - it’s also the water, Within their work groups, students last keep pushing for this trip every year. “We’ve are encouraged to place their food scraps. energy, hard work and natural resources year passed out toothbrushes and clothes. got a big responsibility to fund the school; Blue Earth Compost collects the compost used to grow food,” reads a statement They also worked in a brick factory, in Team Tobati funds 100 percent of teachers’ every week and brings it to their facili- on Blue Earth Compost’s website. Also, sugar cane fields, at the Macchi School, salaries and food that they eat at school ties. “Basically, it’s dark and the compost when food in a landfill decomposes, it and at other places around the town. so I feel responsible to keep the school gets turned so it decomposes relatively releases harmful methane gas into atmo- “I enjoyed playing soccer with running and raise the money,” he said. evenly,” said Mrs. Bailey. “And what you sphere, contributing to climate change. the little kids during one of our breaks Students who are interested in end up getting is nice, nitrogen-rich stuff.” Composting utilizes that waste because it was just fun to see how excited going to Tobati, Paraguay this upcoming Three times a year Blue Earth and makes it into something useful. they were,” senior Colin Regan said. March should look for Mr. Garcia’s Compost will return processed compost KO has already prevented nearly In addition to work activities, emails and go to the mandatory meet- back to KO. This fertilizer is used in the 14,000 pounds of waste from going to there are many other activities such as ings. Statements of Intent are due Oct. 2. Red KOw garden to grow new food, a landfill and is looking to divert even the famed annual dance competition. Todo Es Possible. completing the cycle Mrs. Bailey said. more in the future, said Mrs. Bailey. THURSDAY THURSDAY September 28, 2017 SeptemberSeptember 28,28, 2017 2 News Editorials 2017 3 The editorials below represent the collective A Wyvern’s Tale opinion of the members of the KO News Editorial Board: BenjaminHannah Bash, Waldman, Apara KateKashyap, Betts, MackenzieGabrielle Ruban, McDonald, Benjamin Noah Small, Stanton, Kyle Kelly Zimmer Malo- - The comeback ney,man, Alec Adam Rossi, Ovian, Lauren Neil Barnes,Hemnani, Gwyneth Olivia RossiMcDon - aldand and Eliza Sasha Charette. Bash. year: midterms

by Hannah Bash ’18 classes the day of the exam is prohibited Stop the petty drama Although the idea of midterms still Just when I thought I would angers me a little, I think this schedule might Rumors, gossip, and drama seem like the cycle of negative emotions that high complete all seven years at this school actually help the students. Now, we at least unavoidable parts of the ‘high school experi- school students already have to deal with. without taking a midterm, reality came have adequate time to study for each exam ence.’ Someone tells someone else an alleged Everyone has felt and has feared crashing down. I thought I had escaped and don’t have to stress about going home to rumor about you, and within a day, a third of the judgment of one’s peers at some the dreaded midterms, but I was wrong. study for yet another test the next day, which the grade ‘knows’ about that thing that you point. Nobody needs to deal with vicious Of course, our senior class has to be the is what would occur the week before break. definitely did not do. There’s also the idea rumors or nasty fights on top of that. guinea pigs for this little experiment. Unfortunately, it is nearly impos- of ‘hating by proxy,’ where if one of your Instead of dealing with nega- My gut reaction to this news was sible for there to be no negatives with friends hates someone (no matter the reason), tive emotions by lashing out or putting such an intense feeling of anger. Since regards to midterms. The obvious one you are obligated to hate them as well. other people down, try to spread posi- the announcement, I have continu- being that no one wants to sit and take an Drama is a well-known and well- tivity and kindness. Instead of judging ously asked myself several questions: hour and half exam when it isn’t a final. documented part of high school; however, it someone based off of their friend group, Are midterms really necessary? Why is Disregarding that fact, many students, is something that we should still try to mini- get to know them as an individual. KO trying to ruin my life? Why now? including myself, are extremely worried mize. Being the subject of gossip is never Think twice before telling your friends How bad is it actually going to be? about how midterms will affect our first fun, and rumors have a way of catching up to things they don’t need to know. Will what After allowing reality to sink in, I semester grades. Finals usually weigh around you in the worst ways. Often, people incite you tell them hurt someone else? Is it their (or reflected on my initial reaction. I came 15-20%, and midterms will most likely be drama as a way to mask their insecurity or your) business? Do you really need to drag to realize that this horror story wasn’t as a number similar to that. Although we had feel better about themselves at the expense others down in order to gain social currency? awful as I made it out to be in my mind. tests and other assessments before, the grade of others; however, this just propagates If so, is that social currency even valuable? Yes, there are some downsides to taking never weighed as heavily as midterms will. midterms, but there are also some positives. As a senior, I can say the majority of Some students may be asking how us are pretty enraged about the weight of Recognizing 9/11 there could be any positives, but let’s recall these midterms because we are all trying to get into college, which is no easy task. After September 11, 2001, the becoming as dangerous as active war zones. the week leading up to winter break, other- When midterms have such a strong impact whole world changed. With this infamous Because of high casualty rates, wise known as ‘hell and chaos’ for most on our first semester grades it is extremely al-Qaeda terrorist attack that resulted in it seems as though every American (or students. Every teacher decided that it was hard to have a positive outlook on them. over 9,000 injuries, including almost 3,000 even non-American) has a direct connec- a good idea to slam kids with major tests and Some students just aren’t good at deaths, 9/11 initiated what is often dubbed tion to the attacks. That being said, papers, with no regard to the fact that we had taking large scale exams such as these, which as, “The Modern Era of Terrorism.” This what is the best way to recognize the assessments in literally every single class. I think makes midterms unfair for the seniors. era is a time of not only seemingly more event, knowing that it may bring up a How could one possibly do well on It is already hard enough to stay afloat first frequent terrorist attacks, but also amped- range of reactions in the community? these assessments when they are cramming quarter of senior year, so these midterms up international and domestic travel secu- Often, there will be a moment of for every major class? How could one stay add more stress to our overflowing list. rity protocol, heightened xenophobia and silence to remember those who were lost, sane during this last week? Well, you’ve prob- All in all, I’m not saying these Islamophobia, and even a growing desen- a time to reflect and recognize the innocent ably guessed it, most students couldn’t. Our midterms are horrible. There is no doubt sitization to severities and atrocities of bystanders as well as the brave martyrs who only saving grace was that once we finished that they will still be stressful and an these blatant assaults against humanity. put their lives at risk for the greater good. this hectic week, we would leave for break. annoyance to students, but the admin- Because of its international impact, This past month, there was no moment to However, the goal of these new istration has worked hard to create a 9/11 is one of the most recognizable dates honor the victims of 9/11. For many, it felt midterms is to relieve students of the system that would help decrease the chaos out there, one that is always memorialized like a normal day, that is, until they remem- stressful week before break. The midterm of assessments the week before break, when it comes around; this year, however, bered the date, and they began to wonder schedule allows for only one midterm a and we should applaud them for that. it seems as though 9/11 came and went why there was no communal recognition. week to occur, and homework in other without a sound. Ever since 9/11, it has While it is unclear, this was most become unfortunately more common to likely not an oversight. 9/11 was a cata- hear about such tragedies on a daily basis. clysmic tragedy and should therefore be American media is constantly reporting acknowledged annually. As impactful as the We send out all our terrorism and the devastating aftermath. attacks were, they sparked a great change in According to a study done by New America, our own perspectives regarding the value of since 9/11 the U.S. has charged almost 380 human life. When we are constantly bombed love to those who individuals with being involved in jihadist with news reports of mass killings, it isn’t criminal activity or general terrorism. surprising to see that as time goes on, these While this number may seem minimal, misfortunes start to lose emotive responses especially for it being over 15 years since the from the global community. In the end, we have been affected by attack, this statistic really only accounts for must not let ourselves fall apathetic towards domestic terrorism; abroad, terrorism occurs the victims of such hate, for every life has constantly, especially within warzones in the value and cannot be forgotten in vain. the recent hurricanes. Middle East; now, this horror is expanding Memorializing 9/11 not only commemo- into Europe as well, where attractive, vaca- rates those lost in the 2001 attacks, but also tion hotspots like London or Paris, are those lost in every act of terrorism since. KO News Editors 2017 – 2018 Editor-in-Chief Hannah Bash ’18

Managing Editor Photography Editor Managing Editor for News, Sports and Angie DeLucia ’18 for Features, Arts Investigative Journalism and Opinions Apara Kashyap ’18 Associate Photography Gabrielle Ruban ’18 Editors Investigative Nat Bates ’18 News Editor Sports Editor Features Editor Opinions Editor Journalism Editor Ali Meizels ’19 Arts Editor Benjamin Small ’19 Kyle Zimmerman ’18 Adam Ovian ’18 Neil Hemnani ’18 Olivia Rossi ’18 Eliza Charette ’18 Cartoonist Associate News Editors Associate Sports Editors Thomas Betts ’19 Associate Features Associate Arts Editors Associate Opinions Haley Gervino ’18 Sean James ’19 Editors Luv Kataria ’20 Editors Esha Kataria ’20 Kush Kataria ’20 Sophia Kaufman ’20 Nell Schwartz ’19 Jaden DiMauro ’20 Lian Wolman ’19 John Leuschner ’18 Faculty Advisor Taline Norsigian ’19 Ishaa Sohail ’20 Maeve McDonald ’19 Esha Shrivastav ’20 Cathy Schieffelin Emma Smith ’18 THURSDAY THURSDAY 4 September 28, 2017 Opinions Opinions September 28, 2017 5 Awareness after a week of apologies abroad by Jonathan Briggs Americans, that we as a people By the end of the journey, I a private room, but rather in “well dones” and a “bravo” from are not that bad, frankly, and that was rather glad to be flying back the middle of the hallway, in some of the other passengers. It had been several years you have to get to know us in to the US, and I had to agree clear view of other passengers. My adventure finally ended since my last trip to Europe, so I order to appreciate our sense of with the adage that you never I told the guards that I had a week later when I recounted decided that this was the summer humor and our mindset. I am no know what you had until it’s spent the week apologizing for my story to a KO colleague. He to give it a shot, get on that plane, diplomat, so this whole evening gone and then you get it back. my government and lawmakers’ asked me, “How did you feel and fly the eight-plus hours from was difficult and frustrating at The final day was, sadly, decisions, and that it was immoral when you were on the outside?” the U.S. to Paris. I knew that it best. When I returned to my room, the worst. It began at the airport and unethical to single out the I responded, “It made me angry was going to be cramped on that I decided to take a train to Paris in Montpellier, where I had issues six of us just because we might and I felt completely power- flight, but I wanted to step out of that next day, in hopes of finding with my luggage which caused look different or speak with a less to do anything about it.” I the comfort zone that I had created greater acceptance in an inter- me to almost miss my connection slight accent. They finally let us told him my takeaway from my for myself over the last ten years national capital and tourist city. home. My first flight was over- go, and I practically ran onto the travels: Just because someone and do some light shopping and The trip on the TGV went booked, people were yelling at plane to get away from them, dresses differently, speaks with sight-seeing while I attempted by quickly, and I felt a bit more each other in several languages, tired of being treated like some to imbibe as much culture and secure. When I got off the train and I was not immune to the sort of half-crazed foreigner, food as I could in just a week. to book the return ticket for late anger that was raging around me. bent on world domination. Just because What I did not know was that evening, things turned ugly. I In Paris, the US passengers On the plane and out that this was going to be a week was mugged at the Gare de Lyon were herded down one corridor of France’s airspace, I had an someone dresses of offering apologies to people as I attempted to get my train and forced to wait for only two epiphany (caused by a younger across the pond for the simple ticket out of the machine and had passport check stations, as we person glaring and saying nasty differently, speaks fact that I was a foreigner, that I to fork over 100 euros to a thug were all attempting to make our things in Italian at me, which I was taller than the average person connecting flights back overseas. fully understood): I realized that with an accent over there, and that I spoke fluent When I asked the six employees I had only gone through this trial or practices a French with a hint of an accent What I did not working one lane of passport by fire for a week, that I had been that most people could not place. know was that traffic if they could open the judged on my dress, my height, different religion, After I arrived in Mont- empty European passport lane to my blond hair and hazel eyes, pellier, I fell ill, but I soldiered this was going all of the passengers, I was told to or my slight accent in French. that’s no reason to on and braved the elements (the “shut up” and “not ask questions.” There are people who go 80-degree sunshine, the warm to be a week of It was made very clear through this every day of the be hateful. breeze, the charming towns- to us that being American did year here in America, however, folk), all in the interest of expe- offering apologies not entitle us to special treat- for the very same reason. They riencing a culture with which ment. I did ultimately manage are sworn at, yelled at, pushed I thought I was very familiar. to people across to make my connecting flight. and shoved from here to there, all The trouble, though, began the pond for the I breathed a sigh of relief but because they are simply different. an accent or practices a different the second night that I was there didn’t know that my worst night- It hit me like a thunder- religion, that’s no reason to be when I encountered people simple fact that I mare was about to come true. bolt, and it made me realize how hateful. It has to stop, and what from several different countries: After happily securing a seat privileged we are to live in this better time to do it than now? France, Luxembourg, Switzerland, was a foreigner... on the plane, they pulled me and country, relatively free from We all have to do our part Germany, Poland and Belgium. My five other Americans out of line to these kinds of events, so long as to make a positive difference in false assumption, based in part on do a “random security check” on us we fit a preconceived notion of the world today. Spending a week history, was that these people would before we were allowed to board. I what is “normal.” For one week apologizing for one or another welcome me with open arms and mustered my most formal French in France this July, I was outside person’s errors taught me to be warm smiles, in particular because before he would leave me alone. and asked a security agent why the of “normal,” and no amount of more outspoken about right and I was merely a vacationer and To me, this all seemed surreal, mistreatment was happening. She perfect French or demure behavior wrong and to stand up for those of spoke several foreign languages. like a repeat of a bad crime drama looked at me and said very clearly, was going to get me out of this one. us who are downtrodden. We may What I found out was radi- on some cable network station. “It is because of your president,” Sadly, after I returned to not all agree with one another, cally different. I was met with Afterwards, I successfully claiming that our president had Detroit, the same kind of abuse but we have to remember that we incessant questions about why negotiated the serpentine streets ordered these officials to single continued, but it was on another are all unique in our own ways. our government insists on pulling that are common in Paris, took out and stop people coming from person’s foot: I noticed the offi- We have to honor those differ- out of the Paris Climate Accord, several photos, none of which are France. They took us down an open cials at the airport there going after ences, rather than dismiss them. why we continually make thinly going to grace any magazine cover, hallway and ordered us to take people who “looked different.” There are those who will not veiled threats against North and was able to leave the city on our clothes off for a strip search. This time, though, when one offi- agree with what I have written, Korea and Russia, why we seem the return train. After regaling I flat out refused, claiming cial ripped into me, I fought back, but trust me when I say that you to ignore the fact that Russia may my cab driver with stories of my that I had gone through three laying the problems of the world have to lose something before have meddled in the election. day, he said that the people in security checkpoints already that on this kind of horrible treatment. you can truly appreciate its value. I did my best to try to explain France sometimes are “crazy, ” day and that I would not comply. The official looked at me like I I had the thin veil of privilege that one or two individuals in so I decided to keep a low profile The other passengers were more was from outer space, and I said, temporarily torn away from my our government do not neces- for the remainder of my vaca- malleable. I objected because “I mean it. Stop doing that and try eyes this summer, and now I see sarily represent the majority of tion, and it worked, more or less. we were not being searched in to be civil.” This won me a few the world just a bit differently. Look what you made me write: the face of Taylor Swift by Dan Caroll ’19 the audience on their side and to 2016, Kim Kardashian posted a root for with them. Face doesn’t video of Swift calling West and Taylor Swift recently necessarily have to be heroic, just apparently approving the contro- released the single “Look What You liked by the audience. This is what versial lyrics that seemed to shock Made Me Do” off her upcoming Taylor Swift has done for most of her earlier. At this point Taylor album “Reputation,” set for release her career. A Heel is the opposite of Swift was starting to become on November 10. I think the song a Face. Heels are hated by the audi- a full-blown, Capital-S Snake. is bad for many reasons, like the ence, but in a way that’s fun to hate, She had three options. Option 1 lyric, “I don’t like your tilted so they can still be entertaining. In was to fully commit to being the stage,” or the fact that the chorus wrestling, the audience roots for Heel, which means being fun to kills all the momentum the first the Face because they’re good. hate and relatable as a “bad guy.” verse and pre chorus build, or that Fans root for Taylor Swift because Option 2 was two lay low for there’s no melody in the chorus or she is relatable. Swift’s brand a while until the next news cycle second verse. Those aspects of the has always been that she’s relat- starts and everyone forgets about song aren’t my biggest problem. able-- she’s just like us, but better. the drama involving her. Option 3 My problem has to do with her This image changed last year. was to continue to play the victim Swift faces criticism on “reputation.” Photo courtesy of Google images. new image. But first, I need to Taylor Swift’s music and hopefully stay a Face. Taylor wrestling (that I just made up) for has the opportunity to present a define some terms from profes- changed with “1989,” but the Swift somehow did all three of her entire career. Any star that has different side of herself. Instead, sional wrestling (the fake kind). more important change was in her these things, which means she achieved her level of success has she chooses to mock the idea that In professional wrestling public image. The change started couldn’t quite commit to any to play a role. While Swift may be she could ever play the Heel, or (the fake kind), wrestlers play in February 2016, when Kanye of them. That is the stem of my relatable (as relatable as a multi- that she could ever do anything different archetypes, two of which West released “The Life of Pablo,” problem with “The New Taylor.” millionaire superstar can be), she wrong or bad. This defensiveness are Face and Heel. A Face is a and included a controversial lyric Taylor Swift has existed only presents the positive aspects causes “Look What You Made good guy. A good Face can get about Taylor Swift. In July of inside this analogy of professional of herself to relate to. Swift now Me Do” ultimately sound fake. THURSDAY THURSDAY 4 September 28, 2017 Opinions Opinions September 28, 2017 5 Trump supporters do Nazi the problem with response to Charlottesville protests

by Janvi Sikand ’19 made its way to you somehow), see this one coming, honestly. ment (oh, by the way, a handy there were people in that crowd there was a protest that took I should’ve known that tip in case you hadn’t noticed: of white supremacists that were Do you remember the begin- place in Charlottesville, Virginia, sooner or later, Trump would that’s the kind of government only there for historical preserva- ning of last school year? A light- in mid-August regarding the (more directly than he has we’ve got right now. Cheers!). tion. That some folks were kind- hearted time of fun and games and removal of a Confederate statue. before) align himself with white The only thing is, their hearted pedants who just cared impending doom but mostly joy? Well, at least that’s what it supremacy groups. He’s got methods are somewhat question- about saving the statue of Robert Yeah, yeah, yeah. My first ever was initially marketed as; as you the leaders of the KKK literally able. They make appearances at E. Lee, who as we all know was the opinions article, in the September probably know, the protest imme- thanking him for his service; there pro-Trump rallies and their ilk, and dearest, absolutely most wonderful issue of the 2016-2017 paper, was diately turned violent and ended in were people at the rally doing have been known to use violence and peaceful guy ever to live. “memes vs. emojis.” Can you the brutal deaths of several POC, a the Nazi salute while yelling, on occasion. However, they are No? And let me tell believe that?? Nevermind that in white Black Lives Matter ally, and a “hail Trump.” The list goes on. in no way affiliated with nor are you, even if there were history hindsight, my argument on each peaceful anti-protester. The protest If you want to say, “well, he they the same thing as the Black fanatics looking to save a piece side was super weak (although I’m was organized by and consisted didn’t tell them to do that! Those Lives Matter movement. While of Virginia’s past, no one in their still memes ftw), but it’s so strange of a majority of KKK members, nationalists did that by themselves their goal is certainly admirable, right mind with good intentions that this was forefront in my mind, white nationalists, and neo-Nazis. and they’re responsible for their ANTIFA ain’t exactly the best would’ve stayed a minute in that and that I regarded it as the most This was, by all standards, own actions!,” then I’d like to role models in eliminating racism. rally. They were carrying torches pressing, publication-worthy issue. degrees, and measures, a terrorist ask you: what did your president But to call the entire counter- and chanting “Blood and soil,” Well, if that’s what you came attack. President Trump responded do to stop them from doing that? protest an “alt-left” act? Please, “Jews will not replace us,” and here for this year, then fasten your to this harrowing national tragedy That’s right, nothing. He said that you’ve gotta be kidding. There “White lives matter” for heaven’s seatbelt, sweetheart: It’s gonna be (two days later, might I add) by they were “bad”, and moved on. is no such thing. Any violence sake! I’m no expert, but it really an adventure. Welcome to 2017- stating, among other incredibly Really? I’ve heard more scathing from the counter-protesters other doesn’t seem like they had histo- 2018, the year of getting lit in idiotic things, that there were “fine admonitions from the mouth of a than ANTIFA was done in self ry’s best interests in their mind. the opinions section with Janvi! people on both sides” and that there second grader. Trump then went on defense, or was random and not So, violence on both sides? Our first topic: Why the was “blame on both sides” because to assign the same exact amount premeditated (unlike the alt-right You’re comparing stepping on an iconic story of David and Goliath each side was “very violent.” of blame to those who were violence, which was planned). ant to being eaten by that bug- is gross and biased. No, actu- When this happened, I protesting against the nationalists! “But Janvi,” you say, monster at the end of Men in Black. ally, it’s about why Harry, the had really thought myself to This is where things get “You’re being a hypocrite! How You’re comparing Black Lives kid just hoping to live his life, be numb, almost immune to a little hairy: some of those that can you say that only a certain Matter to actual Nazis. Do you see should be absolutely ashamed of the daily influx of “bad, very agree with Trump’s statement portion of the counter-protest was how skewed this is? Does it make going up against Voldemort, the bad” Trump-related news. argue that the opposing side was dubious and the rest was legit but you feel unsafe? It sure makes racist terrorist. Fine, I’ll just say I thought, well, after all just as bad. Sorry, no. That’s too say that all of the Charlottesville me, a WOC, feel very threatened it -- we’re talking about why the that immigration ban stuff, the much of a generalization. What ralliers were alt-right lowlifes? I to know that I’m in a place where idea of “violence on both sides” repeal/replace fiasco, the trans- most of these people mean is that think that there were fine people people actually agree with Trump’s is a BS myth if I ever saw one. gender military ban shenani- ANTIFA was violent, and that’s on that side! Howbow dat??” response to that night. Anyways, I If anyone was keeping up gans, we can just ride this wave true. ANTIFA is a self-proclaimed Well, I say to you, think again. hope you’ve enjoyed this cheerful with the rather unfortunate news out. It has to get better soon; he anti-fascism organization dedi- I dare you to look me in the start to the school year! I’ll see you this summer (and even if you were can’t screw up any worse. Well, cated to eradicating any sign of eye and tell me with a straight next time, right here in the opinions trying to avoid the news, I bet it surprise!!! Can’t believe I didn’t an oppressive and unsafe govern- face, in complete seriousness, that section, but until then, stay woke! Should midterms be terminated? Seven years isn’t enough by Maeve McDonald ’19 AP classes, the midterms will midterms be the same format by Eliza Charette ’18 have gone by, I have somewhat serve as great review of the mate- as final exams because I believe changed my outlook. I realized Well, it’s official. We will, rial from the first half of the year. that system works well. I fear Let’s talk about college. I how important it is to savor every in fact, be taking midterms this Since AP exams contain mate- that having the exams spread know, I know, it’s extremely over- moment. That includes this crazy year. And people are heated. rial from the whole school year, out during actual school weeks used. But when I’m currently over- fall full of applications and my The assembly when Associate it will actually be helpful to have will cause too much stress. whelmed with college applications last season of field hockey and Head of School Natalie Demers an assessment on the first half After sitting in an exam and visits, how can I not talk about all my classes. Your senior fall is announced that we would be of the year before going into room for two and a half hours, it? But I actually want to talk about meant to be crazy; it’s meant to having midterms was the first the exam at the end of the year. we have to attend the last three going to college itself and why we take you in crazy ways to figure time I've actually heard the Most colleges have classes of the day. Long tests are seniors, get “senioritis” so quickly. out what next step is right for you. whole school boo simultaneously. midterms, so we might as well get exhausting, and not only would I I have been at KO for seven All while still savoring this I too share the same hatred used to having more frequent exams. absolutely not want to sit through years, and before that my brother last year with your friends. It’s towards the long and stressful tests Yes, there are some three classes after that, but I came here also for seven years, insane for me to think about leaving known as exams and am extremely upsides to having midterms, doubt they will be very effective. and even before that my mom all these people in the spring. Look disappointed that I will now be but there are definitely some Students would most likely and uncle both attended KO, so at me: it’s only October and I’m experiencing this excruciating aspects that could be changed. have trouble paying attention for needless to say my family and already getting emotional about stress not once but twice a year. I think that having a three consecutive hours after an I really love this place and see leaving. All of the people here However, I am going to exam. Also, it’s really hard to all the good that comes from it. have shaped me; whether they attempt to shed a little light on the I would much think about anything except for the I have loved being a Wyvern talked to me once or everyday, they situation, and look at the bright exam after taking one. Most of the and coming to school everyday, have shaped me into the person side because, after all, midterms rather have conversation for the rest of the day seeing all the people and coming that I will leave this place as. will inevitably be happening, and would probably revolve around to the campus I know like the back My friends and I have liter- no matter how much I try to bash midterms be the the midterm that just occurred. of my hand. However, after going ally grown up together. The person on them, I can’t change the fact In terms of scheduling, I on all these tours and seeing what’s I came to KO as is definitely not that come November, I will be same format think having english exams the beyond this small school and this the person I am leaving as. I sitting in a room for two and a half as final exams day after Thanksgiving break small town I have never wanted couldn’t be more excited to take hours suffering through exams. is less than ideal. Thanksgiving anything more than to break free that next step, but it’s not going Around the time of winter because I believe break is always something I and move on to the next step. to be easy leaving my friends break most teachers give large look forward to because it’s I recently went to L.A. and the place I know so well. assessments anyways. So, we that system works the first substantial break from this summer for two weeks and I Okay, so what does this might as well have a desig- school we have during the year. loved every minute of it. I loved all mean? I believe that we are nated time for an official exam. well. Not only that, but many the people I met, the places we one grade, with one main goal, Plus, now we have a people travel and spend time with went, the culture I was immersed so we should work together to “No Homework Day” so that week before winter break desig- family during thanksgiving break. in, all of it. This only strengthened make that happen. Let’s make we can have the night before nated to exams would be more The last thing I want to be doing is the flame I already had to get out this year better than ever before. to study. Assuming all the effective than spreading them worrying about an English exam. and travel. It was honestly so hard Let’s all be friends. Let’s push teachers follow the no home- throughout different weeks. Sure, midterms might be for me to come back to school the petty drama aside. Let’s all work rule, we will have a few I look at this as helpful. However, I think the this year. I just wished to skip support each other at every game. days to only focus on the subject five weeks of exam stress way they are scheduled could over this year and attend college Let’s hang out every weekend we will be tested on that week. rather than just one week. definitely be changed in order and be independent and travel. because this is it guys. This is For those of us who take I would much rather have to make them more effective. But as the first weeks the end. Let’s make it worth it. THURSDAY THURSDAY 6 September 28, 2017 Opinions News September 28, 2017 7 The case for teaching religion at KO by Gabrielle Ruban ’18 in not only discrimination against this course should cover all major and racial equality, respect for all of self-discovery, a mandatory other groups, but even going as religions, not just Christianity, beliefs, altruism, and more impor- theology course could greatly The Dalai Lama had once far as war and genocide. None- for often times, when schools tantly, an independent spiritual supplement a variety of other said, “All religion teaches the theless, organized faith has and do have such a requirement, the experience. When I discovered courses as well. virtues of love, altruism and always will hold a prominent focus is primarily on Christianity. the Baha’i faith, I not only found For instance, in English patience, while showing us place in our global community. For many, their spirituality a moral code to live by, but I also class, it is very common to read how to discipline and transform Like at any other stan- is a huge component of their found people with whom I could novels laden with religious ourselves to achieve inner peace dard academic institution, KO identity and sense of purpose. feel that sense of community, that motifs and themes; however, and a kind heart. Therefore, has a core curriculum with When contemplating my identity, sense of belonging with. I also without a proper foundation in they are worthy of our respect.” a variety of requirements in I’ve always felt like something finally began to feel more certain religious mythologies, how could Throughout history, reli- physical sciences, mathematics, was missing. Even though I was about my own purpose in this world one independently detect these modern languages, language raised in a Jewish household, we and what kind of path I needed hidden references? If we all had a “All religion arts, social studies, and arts. were never actively religious, to take in order to accomplish it. substantial knowledge of religions, With KO being a secular and because of that, I’ve always As human beings, it’s safe we would be able to more easily teaches the virtues school, religion is an option lacked that sense of community, to say we really don’t have things make such analytical connections within the social studies depart- where individuals bonded not just figured out; we spend our whole in literature, as well as under- of love, altruism ment; however, it is not a required on interests and cultural similari- lifetime trying to understand who stand the motives and intentions course. These days, when people ties, but on a divine sense of faith, we are and who we are to become, of authors in their works. Just like and patience, think about religion, they often complete trust in something beyond as we’re constantly discovering, Latin can help individuals decipher categorize it with bigotry towards our capacity for scientific proof. learning, and consequently, English or the Romance languages, while showing differing beliefs, inflexible moral Often times, religion offers changing. As important as it is to a background in religion can help us how to disci- codes, outdated rituals, and invalid individuals a sense of direction expand one’s education beyond individuals uncover meaning in excuses for terror and violence. or answers to the most unanswer- the classroom, a traditional school artwork, music, and literature, as pline and trans- As a result, talking about reli- able of questions. Even though setting can always be an effective, well as better understand political gion is essentially as controver- religion is built completely on initial exposure. If religion and systems, historical events, and form ourselves sial as talking about politics. blind faith, this unconditional spirituality had been emphasized even changes in scientific thought. Even though organized trust gives us a sense of security more in my education at KO, I prob- Enforcing an education to achieve inner faith has developed a negative in a world full of the unknown. ably would have started contem- in religion is not meant to be an reputation in an increasingly Lacking this sense of comfort, plating my own spirituality sooner. imposition of beliefs. Under- peace and a kind irreligious United States, that I struggled a lot with under- I know I’m not the only standing theology is a part of being heart.” doesn’t mean we should neglect to standing my own beliefs, as well as adolescent out there who ques- a well-rounded and educated indi- include it in our education system. defining my purpose in this world. tions their identity. Whether it is vidual in society, for organized -Dalai Lama I believe KO should make Knowing that this was the kids raised in atheist or religious faiths have played far too large of theology a requirement as a sepa- source of my problems, I took households, we all deserve an a role in the history of humanity rate course in the Upper School it upon myself to really explore opportunity to get to know what’s for us to neglect them. Regard- gion has been in the foreground, curriculum, for a mere unit in various belief systems, in hopes out there. Even though the Internet less of whether you identify as as it has influenced governmental Empires & Republics freshman that I would not only have a better can be a great resource, not every- religious or not, having a solid structures, social morals, as well year is not enough to thoroughly understanding of my preexisting thing out there is credible and so background in spiritual belief as artistic expression of cultural educate students about the history beliefs, but would also find a without any guidance, it is hard systems allows you to better heritage. In addition to its posi- of religious beliefs and their polit- community that shared my sense of to know if you’re really receiving understand the perspectives and tive impacts, however, organized ical, social, and economic impacts. values and principles. I wanted to fari and factual information. intentions of others, in both the spirituality has also been the basis Before I go into my reasons find a faith that advocated harmony In addition to how this present and the past, as well as of much conflict, as disagreements for why I believe it should be between religion and science, requirement could benefit develop your own unique set of in spiritual beliefs have resulted mandatory, I’d like to clarify that peaceful unity of humanity, gender students in their own journeys values, convictions, and goals. Phones should be our friends, not foes by Jaden DiMauro ’20 can access social media, shop, parents and students money. In it is healthy for students to learn where students and teachers are and play even more games on most Upper School math courses, to use technology as tools and expected to stay off their devices. This year, Kingswood a computer than on a phone. I students are required to have a not just simply a way to connect. This again creates the Oxford has implemented a new recognize that the majority of graphing calculator, most of which While I am vehemently feeling of a double standard for policy regarding the use of cell- the community uses computers cost around $130, an outrageously opposed to banning cellphone use teachers where they can break phones during advisee group for their intended educational high price. However, there are apps in classrooms, I can understand the the cell phone policy without meetings, building on a preex- purpose, but I bring this up merely available that provide the same ban on phones in advisee groups. repercussion whereas if a student istent classroom cell phone ban. to illustrate my point. Phones are services that a $130 calculator The purpose of advisee group In the past, phones have no more of a distraction than the does, but for a mere two dollars. meetings is in the title, for us to be been permitted during such meet- computers which are permitted In addition to not being cost advised, not to play on our phones. “The handbook’s ings. Now, they are prohibited and encouraged in every class. effective, banning phones in class- By staying off our phones policy may need for students and advisors alike. rooms is not preparing students for during these meetings, advi- This rule is an addition the world outside KO. As a College sors are better able to advise, to be clarified.” to the already in place ban on Many apps avail- Prep School, KO is supposed to to the benefit of the students. cell phones being used in class- able on mobile be preparing us for life in college I do believe however, that this - Natalie Demers rooms and during assemblies. and beyond. The world is quickly rule would be better received According to the King- phones can add moving into the digital age, and by students if teachers followed swood Oxford handbook on by resisting this movement, the rule to the same extent is observed with their cellphone page 49, “The use of portable an exciting and they are living up to that duty. that they expect students to. even out during an assembly, electronics devices (i.e., cell In an interview last year I have often heard about chances are it will be confiscated. phones, smartphones, iPod) is educational with KO News reporter Taline teachers stating that they are To be clear, I am not prohibited in classes…” This Norsigian, Dean of Students using their phones either in class condoning cell phone use in policy is not only pointless, but is element to the William Gilyard, who teaches or advisee group for school these spaces, as I feel as though preventing the implementation of classroom. mathematics, said he thinks the related purposes such as checking it is counterproductive. However, new educational tools and ideas. policy should not prohibit cell their email or looking at their I do feel as though teachers One of the most popular phone use in class. “That [policy] lesson plan for their next class. and advisors should be held to arguments for not allowing The second downfall is just not true,” Mr. Gilyard said. While this is not in itself the same standard as students phones in classrooms is that of banning cellphones is the “Definitely for personal use, but “bad,” it is the hypocritical nature when it comes to this issue. they present a distraction. While lost educational and finan- not for teaching purposes.” He of this behavior that causes The school needs to take I recognize that this is a legiti- cial opportunities. Many apps said he allows students to use students to feel as though there is action and update the outdated mate concern, computers, which available on mobile phones phones for calculations in class. a double standard. Teachers, like policy in classrooms and needs to are used in nearly every class- can add an exciting and educa- Associate Head of School students, are expected to stay off make sure teachers are abiding by room in the school are a much tional element to the classroom. Natalie Demers had a similar their phones during advisee group the rules they expect students to more powerful distracting device. Our teachers are missing opinion when speaking with and during classes, regardless of follow in advisee group and assem- There is very little that out on a fantastic way to engage Taline last year: “The hand- the use to which they are being put. blies. By doing do, they will meet one can do on a phone that and inspire their students through book’s policy may need to be Teachers can also be less resistence from students on cannot be done on a computer. something the students can relate clarified.” said Ms. Demers. observed on their devices during the more valid issue of banning the For example, students to. Cell phones can also save She said she also thought assemblies, another place use of phones in advisee groups. THURSDAY THURSDAY 6 September 28, 2017 Opinions News September 28, 2017 7 Future of the leadership center know,” said senior James Bayer. people a day. I think as the year homework,” Mrs. Garcia said. by Lian Wolman ’19 During some of the periods, goes on we will start getting Upper School English “The goal is to The Margaret E. and Henry there are also various math one to two people a period. I department chair Margaret Kasprak R. Roberts Center, located in the teachers who can help students hope students start to view it said she uses the leadership center get more student- bottom of Seaverns Hall has big who come in for extra help. “I as a really valuable recourse.” for two main purposes, the first plans for the 2017-2018 school basically sit there and wait for Sophomore Alyssa Pilecki being the English center where driven initiatives” year, providing students leader- any kids to come in with any is a new math tutor, but she said students can ask tutors for advice ship, math and English services. questions they have going over she has not actually had a student regarding writing. “It’s second –Natalie Demers The actual leadership part tough homework or studying for come for help during any of the purpose is to be a meeting places of the center has not officially tests and quizzes,” Upper School free periods she is in the center. for student organizations that are commenced this year, but math and math teacher Anna Dolan said. “I think right now since it is the taking a leadership role on campus students, Mrs. Goss said. “I am English tutoring has been available beginning of the year, people are like student government,” she said. working on the Lunch and Lead to students since the beginning of still figuring out how they want The math and English program, which includes work- the school year. Upper School “We are hoping to to study and as the year goes on center fall under the umbrella of shops and then bringing that math teacher Denise Garcia is in and the material gets harder and the leadership center but there are back to the classrooms,” she said. charge of the math center and she develop a whole when people get their first tests or other leadership programs as well. Another new program has made a schedule for the center quizzes back, they will be able to “The goal is to get more student- that Mrs. Goss is involved in is where there is usually a tutor avail- big filing cabinet figure out what they want to do and driven initiatives and for the adults providing internships for KO able for each period of the day.”It is come in for extra help,” she said. to step back,” Associate Head of students to work with alumni open all the time,” she said. “There of opportunities New this year are review School Natalie Demers said. and other people in the commu- is a schedule outside the door of sessions for the ACT and SAT Upper School math depart- nity. “We are hoping to develop a who is staffing it each period. for our students.” during PLB on Fridays. “One thing ment chair Sandra Goss said one whole big filing cabinet of oppor- Right now, we have about two or –Sandra Goss that we started this year is SAT and of the programs started last year tunities for our students,” she said. three periods that are not staffed.” ACT review sessions during PLB,” occurred when Junior Achievement Mrs. Goss said that these In order to become a tutor Mrs. Garcia said. “There have been came to KO and worked on inter- leadership experiences present a many students go through a little Mrs. Garcia believes that one or two people every PLB,” view and resumé building skills. very important opportunity that bit of training or are recommended soon more and more students In the math center, A new program that will students should take advantage of. by their teacher for the position. “I will begin utilizing the math help students can come just to be begin this year is Lunch and “I think that any oppor- think it is relatively easy in a sense during their free times. “I think quiet and do their homework Lead where outside profes- tunity where we can encourage to become a tutor because I have since the beginning of the year, without getting extra help. “We sionals and KO alumni will come our students to be better gone through a lot of math classes we have been doing well,” she have extra textbooks if people and talk to students about their leaders is great,” she said. so it is material that I already said. “We have gotten one or two want to come and just do their career path in hopes of inspiring KO’s MUN crosses the pond Sherfinski isn’t by Benjamin Small ’19 from these places. I’ve decided that I want to do international I know nothing sher-finished with KO During March break, history studies in the future, in college, teacher and Model UN advisor and that was influenced by MUN.” about MUN, but by Aparajita Kashyap ’18 daughter Karen graduated in Stacey Savin will lead a group of Others said they agreed. 2001, and his son Dave gradu- 14 students on a trip to an interna- “I really like MUN, debating, I have a lot of In addition to the new ated in 2004. Mr. Sherfinski was tional Model UN (MUN) confer- and talking to people about faculty joining the school this the speaker at Dave’s graduation. ence in London, England. They international issues,” said friends that are year, KO has also welcomed back Mr. Sherfinski grew up will join a group of over 800 sophomore Ishaa Sohail. going. I’m hoping several teachers, including beloved in a small town in Northern delegates from around the world. Ms. Savin said that KO’s math teacher John Sherfinski. Wisconsin near Lake Superior. KO’s delegation will spend delegation is open to students with to learn and Mr. Sherfinski first He spent his time six days touring London, Whitby, any level of MUN experience. “It started teaching at KO in the as an undergraduate at the York, and the Yorkshire Moors. sounds like a really interesting better my under- fall of 1976 and retired in 2009. University of Wisconsin. Then students will participate trip and I also wanted to get into After being away from KO “My hometown was small,” in a three-day MUN confer- MUN so it seemed like a win-win standing.” for a year, he returned part time he said, “and there wasn’t a whole ence at a preparatory school scenario,” said junior Sam Mazo. to teach two boys in an upper- lot of privacy, so I wanted to go called Haileybury College. Junior Luke LaTorre said he –Luke LaTorre level math class, and in 2015, he someplace that was bigger.” also has little MUN experience. “I returned again to teach AP Physics Upon receiving a Bach- know nothing about MUN but I during the second semester after elor’s degree in physics, he went “Students will have a lot of friends that are going,” assigned a country and will the original teacher left midyear. on to receive a Master’s degree, said Luke. “I’m hoping to learn have to represent that coun- This year, Mr. Sher- also in physics, from the Cali- have the oppor- and better my understanding.” try’s stance on the issue at hand. finski is teaching the Multivari- fornia Institute of Technology. tunity to meet In addition to the actual There will be several able Calculus class, as well He then taught physics MUN conference, students said different committees in which as one section of Calculus. for a year in Hogansburg, New people from all that visiting England was a students will participate, including During his first five years York. He then earned his JD at reason they decided to participate. Human Rights Council, Disarma- at KO, Mr. Sherfinski coached UCLA before moving to Hart- over the world, to “I want to go to college ment and International Security, Middle School football. He ford and practicing intellec- abroad and I’ve never been to the Security Council, and others. then went on to coach thirds tual property law for two years. address the issues England,” said junior Kate Brough. Students will discuss and JV basketball for 25 years. “I never planned to be a “I want to see what it’ll be like, issues of international signifi- In 1989, he was awarded lawyer,” he said. “I planned to of their time and getting college tours, getting cance, negotiate, compromise the Robert A. Lazear Endowed be a teacher. When I was looking it’s student-run,” to walk around London, seeing and, ultimately, write resolu- Chair in Teaching, and he for teaching jobs in the area, the whole dynamic of it. I think tions, trying to solve those issues. was one of three state final- KO was looking for a teacher.” –Stacey Savin it will be a good experience.” The exact topics for the ists for a presidential award Mr. Sherfinski said that he Ms. Savin has led many March conference have not been for math and science teachers. aims to keep things interesting MUN trips in the past—most released; however, it is likely Additionally, Mr. Sherfinski in the classroom. “I hope I don’t “Students will have the recently to Russia. Many that they will focus on environ- wrote an eight page newsletter five talk too much,” he said. “A great opportunity to meet people from students going to England also mental issues, terrorism, poverty, times a year for 11 years that was part of class is to try to think of all over the world, to address went on the Russia trip and rogue states, and many others. sent out to over 100 high school questions that might be inter- the issues of their time, and it’s cited it as a reason why the Overall, Ms. Savin said that physics teachers around the state. esting and not just straightforward student-run,” said Ms. Savin. decided to attend this year’s trip. MUN allows students not only “Outside of teaching manipulations and calculations.” Students said they had “I went on the Russia trip to explore another country, but here, [the newsletter] gave me In addition to teaching at KO, many different reasons for and that was a lot of fun,” said also to meet students with similar constant satisfaction because I Mr. Sherfinski is a party planner deciding to go on the England trip. senior Nat Bates. “I met a lot of interests from around the world. was constantly on the lookout for for a group of retirees that plans “I went last year and it was a people and made a lot of friends. “It gets students thinking things that would be interesting for weekly luncheons for former KO lot of fun,” said senior Alicia Henry. I met new people and a got closer about these issues, which is high school physics teachers,” said teachers. He also volunteers at the “I like traveling and I like MUN. with people that I wasn’t close wonderful,”said Ms. Savin. Mr. Sherfinski. “I loved finding Charter Oak Elementary School. MUN is a good way to discuss with before, and I was able to Ms. Savin said that there are problems that were interesting “Being around young things that are actually happening. reinvigorate my love of MUN.” two more seats available and for me and challenging to solve.” people, whether they are fifth MUN has impacted how I look at At the Haileybury confer- that interested students should Mr. Sherfinski’s two chil- graders or high school seniors the news because I know people ence, each student will be contact her for more information. dren are also alumni of KO: his is energizing and fun!” he said. THURSDAY THURSDAY 8 September 28, 2017 Arts Arts September 28, 2017 9 Game designer Goldschlager Don’t watch IT by Nell Schwartz ’19 by Ishaa Sohail ’20 by American actor Jaeden Lieberher, is constructing a paper While many might not “It” is the 2017 adaptation of boat for Georgie that he can use know, there is a game designer Stephen King’s classic 1986 horror to play outside, but he needs in our own KOmmunity. This novel of the same name. If you’re wax, so he asks Georgie to go past summer, senior Mack- the type of person who doesn’t like fetch him some from the cellar. enzie Goldschlager traveled to to read the book, you’re not going Georgie hesitates because Philadelphia for one month to to want to watch the movie either! he’s scared, but he goes and gets attend a SADI (Summer Art and The movie tells the story it anyway. Bill finishes the boat Design Institute) program at of seven children as they are (which they named the S.S. Georgie Moore College of Art and Design. terrorized by the terrifying being, which I will admit is kind of cute.) According to Mack- “Pennywise the Dancing Clown” Georgie places it (no not the enzie, for as long as she can who exploits the fears and phobias clown) on the street and chases remember she has been inter- of its victims in order to disguise the paper boat down a stream ested in both video games and art. itself while hunting its prey. of water in their neighborhood. “I’ve always loved playing Set in 1989, the story begins The boat unfortunately goes Senior Mackenzie Goldschlager smiles big for the camera after her summer down into the sewer, and this is video games since I was a program for game design at SADI. Photo by Angie DeLucia ’18. when a young boy named George kid, and I like art so I thought “Georgie” Denbrough disappears where Pennywise is introduced. maybe I could just combine she got to know the area very as I want, when art classes meet after the sudden arrival of the Pennywise snatches the boat the two,” Mackenzie said. well over her four week stay. for only an hour three times a mysterious clown to their town. and sweet talks Georgie into grab- Every weekday, Mack- “One of the best parts of the week, so I really loved being Georgie’s older brother, bing it, where he then flashes his enzie would attend class for eight program was the amount of explo- able to work on my skills 24/7.” Bill, is left distressed after this- big, “beautiful” smile and suddenly hours, only breaking for meals. ration we did in the city. My first The time she spent at this harrowing incident. Bill looks bites Georgie’s arm off with his “It was definitely a chal- time visiting Philly had only been a intensive program was one of for the help of six other outcasts “pearly” whites. After originally lenge doing art for an entire week before to go on college visits, the best learning experiences who have had similar experiences snatching the boat, Pennywise day, but it was definitely worth so I was experiencing an entirely of her life Mackenzie said. with the clown and its other forms snatches innocent Georgie and the effort!” Mackenzie said. new city during my stay. We went “I am extremely grateful for after a petrifying encounter with drags him into the sewer. Unfortu- Her classes were animation, to museums like the Philadelphia having the opportunity to have a Pennywise. In an attempt to rescue nately, the only witness is a cat who illustration, and game design. Museum of Art and the UPenn pre-college experience like the Georgie, the seven band together obviously cannot say anything. While the week course load was Museum of Archaeology and one I had at Moore,” Mackenzie to find out the unknown truth Everyone in the fictional rigorous, there was still some Anthropology. I left the program said.“My enjoyment of the lessons about the shapeshifting creature. town of Derry, Maine believes downtime for other activities. loving Philly even more than I I learned in the Game Design class When I first found out that Georgie has gone missing “On Saturdays, we had field expected to,” Mackenzie said. and its focus on combining the arts that “It” was being released in and died, but Bill takes on the trips to various spots in the city Exploring the city was high with the more technical side of theaters on September 8, 2017, role of being a responsible big which were super exciting, and on her list of favorite parts of the game production helped to solidify I was more than happy to find brother and thinks otherwise--this Sundays were used as ‘free days’ program but the overall best aspect my interest in the field,” she said. out that a new horror movie was is when the summer of a lifetime to relax and work on homework of the program she said was “just Because of her time at coming out, but now I can just begins. This was also the begin- assignments,” Mackenzie said. the sheer amount of time I was able the program, Mackenzie is say that I am really disappointed. ning of me almost falling asleep. Being in a new place was to devote to art. During the school now planning on majoring I think that the only thing Now, don’t get me wrong, exciting for Mackenzie because year, it’s hard to be as involved in game design in college. that I am happy about is that I I do think that the actors did a didn’t waste $8 on a movie ticket wonderful part of playing the roles and just illegally streamed the film that they were assigned consid- “The Handmaid’s Tale”: A Review on my laptop, minus the fact that ering that they are all so young and I now have to wash 40+ viruses they took on very mature charac- by Gabrielle Ruban ’18 in a time of chaos, a totalitarian, begins to unravel how her life off of it (and wash the memory of ters with intense backstories, so I Christian fundamentalist regime came to change so drastically. this horrible film out of my mind.) won’t blame them. Instead, I will This review may known as “Gilead” is established. When I first heard about this For a person who is absolutely blame the promoters of the movie. contain spoilers, along with Within this society, the hierarchy novel, I wasn’t sure where I stood; in love with horror movies, this The screenwriters did a really themes of rape and suicide. is toppled by a bunch of extremist honestly, I initially thought that one almost made me fall asleep! good job of bringing the novel to Literature, throughout male military commanders, this was just going to be another “It” is directed by Andrés life and trying to make it as similar history, has had a variety of who’ve created extremely “women are oppressed and men Muschietti, an Argentine film as possible, but the promoters purposes; whether it is for enter- gender-segregated laws. are monsters” kind of novel. director and screenwriter who hyped up the movie in a way tainment or education, novels as an In this society, men are the However, I was very is most popular for his work that they simply shouldn’t have. element of cultural heritage have only ones allowed to receive an mistaken. Even though men are with “Mama”, another horror I was expecting that left a lasting impact on readers. education, as well as hold polit- placed at the top of the social movie, which by the way, this film would be some- In many cases, novels ical positions. Sound familiar? hierarchy, the wives of the wasn’t that scary either… thing new and refreshing, but are often a representation In addition to that, women commanders are even more tyran- “It” is played by Swedish instead I was just hit with the of the era in which they are are viewed as secondhand citi- nical than their male counterparts. actor and model, Bill Skarsgård. same stereotypical clown story. published in, anywhere from zens and are subjugated into Whether it be out of jeal- Bill is best known as, “Roman Movies like this have the political climate and current classes dependent on fertility ousy, insecurity, or sheer malice, Godfrey” in the Netflix series, been made several times, and events, to social issues, creative and obedience. Forbidden from the wives essentially dominate “Hemlock Grove” and has been this was just like all of the trends, and pop-culture overall. reading, writing, owning prop- their Handmaids, emotion- involved in the movie industry others that have been created Throughout time, femi- erty, and much more, women are ally abusing them to the point for as long as he can remember, since the film industry started. nism has always been a prevalent greatly discriminated against. of suicide for their involun- considering his father is Stellan Everything was so expected, social movement, a cause that Strictly following an tary occupation as a Handmaid. Skarsgård, another Swedish actor. and you could literally make has also even motivated other extremist interpretation of the As grueling as some of Right off the bat viewers out what was about to happen. transformations of social change. Christian Bible, there are a the plot points are in the novel, are placed in the plot (so I will Ten out of ten viewers With much of our day and few fertile women, known as Margaret Atwood really gets her give Andrés credit for that) would NOT recommend. If you age still rooted in traditional reli- the Handmaids, whose sole readers connecting her novel to where Bill Denbrough, played haven’t seen this movie yet, don’t. gious thought, it isn’t surprising purpose in the society is to act even some of today’s events, for that there is a deadlock of prog- as surrogate women for the the seemingly extreme circum- ress between both institutions. commanders’ infertile wives. stances in “The Handmaid’s As a cautionary tale, As essentially “walking Tale” aren’t too far off from Margaret Atwood’s novel, “The wombs,” the Handmaids not only where we could be if the U.S.’s Handmaid’s Tale,” portrays a live strictly regulated lifestyles, social climate doesn’t change. post-war United States where, but are forced into having sex with As someone who isn’t a in a state-of-panic, the country the commanders once a month, fan of science fiction or post- not only reverts to seem- until they become pregnant. apocalyptic settings, this novel ingly colonial culture, but The novel centers on a Hand- was, nonetheless, very enjoyable. also does so to an extreme. maid named Offred, who is a part Even though it isn’t Because of an epidemic of of the charter generation of Hand- emotionally easy to read, “The sexually transmitted diseases and maids in Gilead; hence, all of these Handmaid’s Tale” is a thought- pervasive environmental pollution, Handmaids had lives prior to their provoking and timeless novel, many women struggle with infer- recruitment and even though it is for themes of religion and poli- tility, causing the overall American prohibited, remember them too. tics, and their relationship to population to plummet. Written like a diary from feminism and overall human As a means to bring order the perspective of Offred, she rights, will always be relevant. Pennywise the Dancing Clown from the Steven King adaptation of “It.” Phtoto courtesy of Google Imatges. THURSDAY THURSDAY 8 September 28, 2017 Arts Arts September 28, 2017 9 A (Fairy)Tale of a Wyvern in Paris by Olivia Rossi ’18 she lives there full-time at the her father, which helps a different Remy’s attitude seems to fit right out to Ellie, as well as her talent moment, she isn’t letting the country seem similar to home. in. At KO, people always say that was Remy’s effort. She was said With Kingswood Oxford’s “touristy” things slip away from “It’s nice [to be with my dad] Remy always put her best effort into by many to always give “100%.” small population of 356 people, her. She has visited the Eiffel but it’s hard being away from my what she was working on. These talents of sometimes it is easy to forget Tower, The Louvre, Notre Dame, mom and brother because I’m close Senior Ellie Bavier had Remy’s are no doubt a reason what is going on outside and, not to mention, tons of cafes. with them and they have to miss all ample experience with Remy for her success in France. campus. However, when one of As fun as these sights the things I’m doing,” Remy said. from working on the 2017 Musical However, Remy’s acco- KO’s own students jets across may be to visit, Remy said she Occasionally Remy’s family “Pippin.” Both Ellie and Remy lades don’t stop there. Both the globe, it is hard to ignore. only goes sightseeing in her comes to visit her. On these days, played the role of Leading Players Ellie and sophomore Sophia Sophomore Remy McCoy, Kaufman remarked on her singing a theater and singing enthusiast, talents as well.“She has a strong has traveled to France in order to voice and her belt is impres- participate in a television show. sive, up to a high F,” said Ellie. The television show, which Due to her strong voice, is currently being filmed in Paris, Remy often sang the national is called “Seven and Me.” The anthem at games. Junior Mia show centers around a young Seymour said, “It was incred- girl, Snow, who discovers she is a ibly special to have all the direct descendent of Snow White. girls stand hand in hand while Like the famous fictional princess, Remy bravely sang the national Snow has seven dwarfs of her own anthem in front of everyone.” to make life more interesting. Sophia echoed Ellie and Remy plays the part Mia’s praises by saying “Remy of Camilla, Snow’s best always seems to be a prominent friend. Getting the part was voice in her section of the choir.” quite a process for Remy. Sophia also added that She said that even though she Sophmore Remy McCoy focusing on her studies at Kingswood Oxford School. Photo courtesy of Remy McCoy. she is missed in the chorus auditioned for the part of Camilla in free time, which isn’t much. Remy changes up her usual and Ellie said they became close and they are awaiting her June, but she didn’t find out about Remy stated that a typical routine and travels with them. quickly because they had to be return at the end of October. her casting until a week before she day for her consists of waking Remy also stated that she synchronized at all times, even In regards to her introduction had to move to France for filming. up, going to the studio, doing isn’t the only one from another though they had different lines. back into school, Remy said she Although it was a very scene takes for five to six country. “[The people I work Ellie said that she is planning on jumping back into stressful time, Remy stated that hours, toing to school for three with] are from all different parts was constantly impressed what everyone else is doing. She even though it was very crazy, hours, and finally going home of the world and speak so many with Remy’s work, whether has been keeping up with school she wanted to do it because “it is to study lines for the next day. different languages,” Remy said. it be her acting or singing. work in France, but “it will [still] a once in a lifetime opportunity Moving to a different Remy explained that her cast- “Remy is an excellent be weird coming back to CT.” and [she] couldn’t pass up living country would be an adjustment mates’ kind, supportive nature, actress,” Ellie said. “She often will No matter what happens in Paris while being on a show.” for anyone, but Remy also had along with their cultural diver- play around with her character and Remy said that this expe- Now that she is in Paris, to adjust to being away from sity, has made her experience her character’s relationships with rience has been beyond Remy is taking advantage of most of her family. Currently, very enriching and fulfilling. others. That really stood out to me.” “amazing and so different from every opportunity. Although Remy is living in France with Based on her peers’ remarks, The other thing that stood anything [she’s] ever done.” Hurray for Hoj’s Return Burnett is back by Hannah Bash ’18 [of a class],” she said, “and so I she has noticed vast differences by Neil Hemnani ’18 [grad] school because I became a think that’s why I was offered the between teaching English and teacher’s assistant and loved it.” Although we welcome opportunity to teach Art History.” AP Art History. In her English If you’ve ever taken a visual After obtaining her graduate numerous new teachers to the Out of the 12 years Ms. classes Ms. Hojnicki said that art class at KO, chances are your degree, Ms. Burnett worked in the KO community, there are some Hojnicki has spent at KO thus she found it easy to select works teacher was Scott McDonald. admissions office at the Hartford familiar faces returning to our far, this is the first time she will of literature that would still allow If you’re taking one this year, Art School of UHartford, inter- campus. Former English teacher teach an art class. Even though Ms. the students to work on their you might have his wife (and viewing applicants, visiting high Heidi Hojnicki has resumed her Hojnicki was a literature major in skills, but with art history she is best friend) as a teacher. Art schools to work with students teaching position at KO this year college, she has studied a little glued to a very strict schedule in teacher Katherine Burnett is on their portfolios, and doing after spending two years in India. art and was a painter; she even order to prepare for the AP exam. back on campus after leaving work within the office itself. Ms. Hojnicki previously started painting in Minnesota after “One of the biggest differ- to raise three of her five kids: Ms. Burnett then began worked at KO for 12 years college. In order to prepare for this ences is that the AP Art History alumna Gwyneth McDonald working at KO in 1996, but left before departing for India. She course, she attended a class over course is very content-driven and ’16, junior Maeve McDonald, to raise her kids for a few years. explained that her husband the summer. “I took a course this I’ve always taught English to be and freshman Aidan McDonald. When she was ready to get back received a two year contract to summer to teach a AP art history a more skill-based course where Growing up, Ms. Burnett into it, she started working at work in India, and they decided class, and I’m excited to share you can really substitute any knew she was destined to be Watkinson School in Hartford, to take the amazing opportunity. it with my students,” she said. quality literature and still really an artist.“I think I really started but left to raise two more kids. “For those who don’t know, Ms. Hojnicki said that she is get at those core skills that students getting into art when I was in Ms. Burnett then went to Renbrook my husband is of Indian origin. so excited to teach the class that need,” she said. “With Art History, elementary school and I won this School in West Hartford and now We thought it would be pretty she even tried her lessons with on the other hand, we’ve got these prize in our town. My artwork she’s back at KO after 21 years. cool to provide our son with the her seven year old. She said that 250 works that we’ve got to focus was shown in the local town “Coming back to [KO] opportunity to see that aspect of his although she doesn’t have the on for the exam, it’s not like I bakery; it was a lion, and I felt was really like coming home to culture,” she said. “It [also] allowed skills to teach creative arts, since can pull out random works of art an immense sense of pride from me,” said Ms. Burnett. “Even us to visit family that does live in art history is more historic than and focus on just those instead.” that,” she said. “I just always knew though I left, I’m still so close India frequently, and so he got to art, she can teach that. “Most Ms. Hojnicki is happily I was going to make artwork.” with all the teachers I taught interact with them more than he of my art history knowledge is surprised with how the class has Ms. Burnett attended the with in the Middle School, and would if we had stayed in the U.S.” modern art history, but I love art turned out thus far and she has University of Hartford to study my kids have gone through here, After the two years in India history, because it is a way to truly found a passion and love photography, after which she went and my husband works here!” finished, Ms. Hojnicki decided learn about a culture,” she said. for the subject. “I don’t think if to Bard College in New York to get Ms. Burnett has a number it was time to return to KO, but Some of her goals for the you’d asked me a month ago, I her graduate degree in photography. of goals, including working a surprise awaited her. Although year are to make the students feel would’ve said I’d be excited about She studied abstract, community-based art projects into she originally planned to resume comfortable as art historians and teaching prehistoric art,” she said old photographic processes the curriculum as well as putting teaching English classes, she was for them to perform well on the “but I actually really enjoyed such as cyanotype printing and students’ work all over the school. also asked to teach an art class. AP exam in the spring. “[I want learning about prehistoric art!” ended up collaborating exten- Ms. Burnett will teach Former art teacher Jacquelyn the students] to kind of identify Thus far in the course, Ms. sively with painters while she Drawing, Painting, and Intro- Gleisner was supposed to teach the themselves as art historians, and Hojnicki does have a favorite. was at Bard, never even using duction to Studio in the Upper class, but she was offered a job at to become comfortable using the “My own personal favorite a camera for her coursework! School, and Painting in the Middle a college before the school year language of art historians,” she said. has been abstract expres- Ms. Burnett said her job “sort School, in addition to serving started. Since Ms. Gleisner left, “I think that’s probably my biggest sionism, but even that might of chose [her],” and that she “loves as a Stength and Conditioning Ms. Hojnicki was asked to step up goal, but my secondary goal is that evolve and change,” she said, people and I love art, so I think it coach. If you get to have her as and fill this large role. “It’s tough everyone gets a 5 on the exam.” Ms. Hojnicki looks forward was this natural thing for me, and a teacher or coach in the future, to hire a person for just one section Ms. Hojnicki added that to a new appreciation of hisotric art. I kind of fell into it when I was in you can consider yourself lucky! THURSDAY THURSDAY 10 September 28, 2017 Arts Features September 28, 2017 11 Two seniors awarded Rosoff Fellowship by Nell Schwartz ’19 collaborate to pick the recipient. doubled as a scuba instructor. This past school year, Together they explored This past school year, seniors the art department chose two the ocean, working with new Eliza Charette and Angie DeLucia winners: Eliza and Angie. lighting, and Angie would were each endowed with the honor Both girls love photography take review quizzes before of receiving the Rosoff Fellow- and are seriously considering it each class to go over what she ship, an award which gives money as a course of study in college as worked on the previous day. to an art student or students to help well as a potential career path. “One day we were under- pay for an art-related program. Angie spent three days in water for about an hour and Both girls were given money West Palm Beach Singer Island, twenty minutes, and I ended up from KO, which they split to put practicing her skills in a new with more than 200 photos,” towards photography programs medium: under water. “I got to Angie said of her intense but that they attended over the summer. experience taking photos in a valuable days. While in Florida, To qualify for this fellow- totally different world,” Angie said. Angie was able to realize a dream. ship, a student has to take Everyday she had one- “I told her [the instructor] Photo taken by Eliza Charette during her L.A .photo trip over the summer. Photography 1 and Photography on-one classes with an under- that I’ve always wanted to see 2 Honors, and the art teachers water photographer who a seahorse so she brought me to perspectives and personali- “I got to combine my two ‘Seahorse Haven,’ where I saw ties of the photography versus favorite things in the world, a seahorse couple and when we ours and how the new perspec- photography and scuba diving, came close, they attached their tives influenced us,” she said. and it made me realize that tails together to protect them- Not only did Eliza get underwater photography is an selves. That was the best part of my to experience photography in important passion for me now whole experience,” she reflected. different forums, but she was also and in my future. Overall, the Eliza, on the other hand, able to experience a new city and program was one of the most experienced a completely meet people from around the world. life changing experiences that different kind of program. “I had never been to L.A. so I’ll never forget,” Angie said. For two weeks she had I was very nervous, but I instantly Eliza said that she “fell class from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 fell in Iove with the city. I also more in love with photography,” p.m. at the New York Film was fortunate enough to meet and she also developed a connec- Academy based in Los Angeles. people from Ukraine, Nicaragua, tion to the city of Los Angeles. Eliza had ten different Mexico, Brazil, Russia and France, The Rosoff Fellow- photography teachers throughout who I’m still in touch with today.” ship for summer 2017 was a her stay, and she learned many While Angie and Eliza expe- huge success, allowing Angie Student photographer Angie DeLucia in action during her Florida trip. Photo different sides of the field. rienced very different programs, and Eliza to take their love of Courtesy of Andrea Whitiker. “It was cool to see different their takeaways were similar. photography to the next level. “The Bold Type”: women Back to (old)school- boldly challenge sexism Playlist by Hannah Bash ’18 show I will leave out names, but Scenes from an Italian Restaurant - Billy Joel two of the characters finds them- Jessie’s Girl - Rick Springfield This review contains selves unhappy with the positions themes of breast cancer and rape. they hold right now. Although Don’t Stop Believing - Journey “The Bold Type” is the change may seem scary, happi- Heartless - Kanye West newest woman empowering show ness is the most important of all. airing on TV right now. This show As both girls desperately try to Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield promotes feminism and allows the overcome this obstacle, they come Hotel California - Eagles viewer to relate so strongly, or at to realize that change isn’t always Beautiful Soul - Jesse McCarthy least feel closely connected, to the bad and even though we think struggles of the main characters. we know what we want, our idea How to Save a Life - The Fray The show follows the lives of that can change very quickly. Hey There Delilah - Plain White T’s of three young women who work Lastly, “The Bold Type” not Drive by - Train at Scarlet Magazine as they face only shows important life lessons, the obstacles of love, sexual iden- but it also tackles feminism move- Your Love - The Outfield tity, and discovering their place at ments of our time and rape. The Bless the Broken Road - Rascal Flatts the magazine. Kat Edison, played magazine takes on the hefty task of Fallin’ for You - Colbie Cailat by Aisha Dee, is the social media Advertisement for “The Bold Type.” dedicating an issue to breast cancer coordinator, and probably the most invaluable advice along the way. awareness. This issue includes Sympathy For The Devil - The Rolling Stones bold out of the three main charac- Two of their signature articles on the importance of being Californication - Red Hot Chili Peppers ters. Jane Sloan, played by Katie friendship moves is to meet in aware and getting tested. One of Somebody to Love - Jefferson Airplane Stevens, has finally earned her spot the fashion closet at the maga- the women hesitates to get tested as a writer at the magazine after zine headquarters when there for the BRCA mutation, but she Rocket Man - Elton John interning for many years. Lastly, is any news to share, whether it ultimately does. Her doctor’s visit Ants Marching - Dave Matthews Band Sutton Brady, played by Meghann be good or bad, and to scream is recorded and posted to the maga- Power of Love - Huey Lewis & The News Fahy, is an assistant at Scarlet. while subways rush by them. zine’s twitter account to encourage The show is based off of The producers want to spread other women going through the Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy - Andrews Sisters real life events of Joanna Coles, the message that when it comes same obstacle to just get the test. Human Nature - Micheal Jackson former editor-in-chief of Cosmo- down to it, best friends will stick In addition, one of the Hey Jude- The Beatles politan magazine. Coles is one of by you through anything. While episodes focuses on the story of the executive producers of this the common subway scene shows a woman who got raped. This Imagine - John Lennon show and Scarlet Magazine is that it is perfectly healthy to let woman stands with weights in Darlin’ - The Beach Boys meant to represent Cosmopolitan. all your emotions loose, and it Central Park every day to represent Each episode tackles a is even necessary sometimes. the weight of carrying around the Sir Duke - Stevie Wonder new struggle for the three young In the office, Kat, Jane, fact that she got raped. The maga- Where The Streets Have No Name - U2 women, whether it be their position and Sutton never back down. If zine features a live stream of this Old Man - Neil Young at Scarlet or their love life, but one there is something they want, woman to spread the word about thing always remains the same: the they each fight for it until the end. rape and let thousands of women Vivir mi Vida - Marc Anthony strong bond between the three. Perseverance is a repeated theme out there know they are not alone. Wheel in the Sky - Journey Jane, Kat, and Sutton are insepa- in this show, and the producers The episode is so powerful and the Take me Home, Country Roads - John Denver rable, and no matter what they are want young women to know that producers truly convey the message always there for each other. Their they should never give up on to viewers that they are never Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd friendship shows how we should something they truly believe in. alone. “The Bold Type” airs every Here Comes the Sun- The Beatles treat our friends, and they give us In order to not spoil the Tuesday at 9 p.m., on Freeform. THURSDAY THURSDAY 10 September 28, 2017 Arts Features September 28, 2017 11 KO Faces Captains’ Boards Conspiracy by Emma Smith ’18 athletic facilities much better, but So students wondered-- history. “I think that it’s a good response, you know that there is it’s really important also to find a was the outcry raised by the part of KO tradition,” said Senior a deep care for the school. I try to Students returning to KO place for the boards and continue petition responsible for this Jackson Meshanic, “and every take everything with a grain of salt. from summer break were surprised the tradition of adding names.” change? Only partially. In fact, time I walk in the athletic center It’s important now to communicate and upset to find that a staple In order to represent her much of the upset was caused it reminds me of the leaders what will happen going forward.” of the athletic department was views on the captains’ boards, by a simple miscommunication. that have come before me.” Mrs. Fiske also said that missing: sometime between the and the views of the student body, Mr. Bisgaard said that the Some students and alumni the issue has been a learning last day of exams and the first day Skylar started an online peti- athletic department never planned that commented on the petition experience, and has showcased of preseason, the captains’ boards tion in support of keeping the to completely do away with the were not quite so careful with the importance of communica- had been mysteriously taken down. captains’ boards and carrying on captains’ boards. In all honesty, their words. Comments ranged tion. Mr. Bisgaard added that Emotions ran high the their tradition. Within 24 hours, the they were not sure what they would from thoughtful remarks on the it is important that the commu- following few weeks as students petition garnered upwards of 500 do with them. “It was never the importance of tradition to fiery nity appreciates the new athletic and faculty discussed the fate signatures. Students and alumni idea that they would disappear,” he responses of “Deplorable!” and space, rather than getting caught of the captains’ boards. Student alike joined in support of growing said. “I think that it would prob- even threats to withhold donations up in concerns about changes. Athletic Advisory Council and maintaining this petition. ably have been tighter if we had until the boards were re-installed. After all the back-and-forth, members were (erroneously) Tensions rose as more and had a clear plan as to where they Mrs. Fiske said she was you could say that the petition and informed that the boards would more students and teachers began were going to go from the get-go. disappointed by the outcry. “The its backers succeeded. The captains’ be replaced entirely by an interac- to express their opinions on the Mr. Bisgaard added that displaying surprise was the misinforma- boards will be displayed in Soby tive computer display, showcasing apparent removal of the captains’ the names of the captains is no tion about them,” she said, “and gym, hopefully in time for Hewett each team through the years at the boards. Skylar said that she abso- different than recognizing prefects, the idea that we would be doing Day. Names of past and future tap of a screen. Due to minimal lutely did not expect people to news editors, prize winners, or away with those boards from captains will be updated annually. communication between admin- react this strongly to the disap- other leadership positions. the past. That was one of those As a last remark, Mrs. Fiske istration and the student body, pearance of the captains’ boards. Athletic Director Debbie where you’re bummed about the added that she hopes another students were confused and misin- Finally, in order to clear up Fiske explained that part of the miscommunication. You know issue like this will not arise in formed about what would happen the debate, Head of School Dennis plan for modernizing the new field- that anytime you’re making the future. “I think people should to the decades of names docu- Bisgaard addressed the school and house area was to display captains change there will be emotions understand that we have the best mented on the captains’ boards. sent an email to parents regarding in team pictures on the screen, attached to everything, but it was intentions to help continue to Senior Skylar Barron said the captains’ boards. The email rather than as names on boards. unfortunate that that piece made grow KO Athletics,” she said. she was disappointed to hear read, “During [the] renovation, However, as people expressed alumni so unnecessarily upset.” “We strive to bring in good student that the tradition of the captains’ some of the captains’ boards their love for and attachment to Despite the apparent anger athletes that want to be a part of boards would not continue. “I had to be taken down, and they the captains’ boards, she said surrounding the captains’ boards a community that treasures new figured that’s something they simply have not been reinstalled that Mr. Bisgaard stepped in and debacle, Mr. Bisgaard was able traditions, but also wants to go would never change,” she said. within the athletics facilities mandated that the boards must stay. to see beyond the emotion. “Once forward and bring in new ideas. “I felt like KO would have never yet. We will continue to update Students in particular it kind of spilled over into the I speak for all the administrators disrupted that tradition. I under- and display these boards just said they felt that the captains’ adult world, [the debate] took on when I say that there is no intent stand the upgrading and renova- like we do for the other student boards were an important hall- a life of its own,” he said. “I think to harm the traditions that students tions of KO, because it makes our leadership boards on campus.” mark of the school’s athletic with the passion that you see, the have laid the groundwork for.” Music lover of the month: Fashionista of the month: Dan Carroll Kyle Chapman by Neil Hemnani ’18 who he says is “the G.O.A.T.”. how experimental [Yeezus] is.” by Sophia Kaufman ’20 outgoing shoes to represent his But his all-time favorite artists While some casual music creative and imaginative style.​ Frank Ocean released are Kanye West, Frank Ocean, fans listens to certain songs and Is that George Clooney. ​“As people dress for work his second album, “Blonde”, and The Mountain Goats. singles here and there, Dan is a true Is that Brad Pitt? No, that’s our and life they tend to ‘go with the back on Aug. 20, 2016. The Mountain Goats is fan of the album as an art form. own fashionable teacher, Kyle flow’, but I strive to stand out “I’ve listened to Blonde singer-songwriter John Darni- “I listen to lots of music Chapman. Mr. Chapman, Middle and make a statement everyday.” at least once a week since it elle’s solo project of indie folk on the bus and at school School English teacher, can ​One faculty member came out,” said junior Dan music, and a contrast from during free periods, just when- always be spotted on campus that Mr. Chapman considers Carroll. “That’s how good it Kanye West and Frank Ocean, ever I have nothing present to with awesome fashion sense. to be a trendsetter is chorus is; so many of the songs you do,” he said. “I like to listen Mr. Chapman lives with teacher Steve Mitchell. can just listen to whenever.” to albums straight through.” his wife and three kids that can ​“Mr. Mitchell often calls At the time this article “I think clas- Dan’s favorite albums also be seen wearing runway is published, 57 weeks will that have come out recently are fashions. It would not be wrong have passed. It’s pretty “Melodrama” by Lorde, “Big to call this family trendsetting. obvious that Dan likes to listen sical music Fish” by Vince Staples, “Pure Whether in the classroom, to music, to say the least. Comedy” by Father John Misty, on the basketball court, or simply Back when Dan was a young sucks. I think and a few others. He clearly out and about, Mr. Chapman lad in elementary and middle has a diverse music taste, yet always seems to make a statement. school, he said he wasn’t much of a he doesn’t like everything. Mr. Chapman’s said his music fan. He listened to whatever it’s boring, “I think classical music favorite clothing venues include his mom played, which included sucks. I think it’s boring and J-Crew, H&M, and Goodwill. bands like U2 (whose music he and I hate I hate it,” he said. “Kanye “If I were to describe my didn’t even like), and he was is better than Mozart.” style in a couple words it would be unable to experience much variety. He’s also trying to ‘fresh’ and ‘clean,’” he said, “which That all changed when Dan it. Kanye is expand his music taste. also represents my personality.” got a phone and a laptop for the “They didn’t have Kanye Mr. Chapman said he first time, in the eighth grade. The better than back in the 70’s, so how good admires the many fashion state- internet, as it has done time and could it be?” he asked about earlier ments he sees on campus, time again, opened a world of music music. “I listen to more modern and gaining inspiration from them. Mr. Chapman poses in a stylish for Dan that he didn’t know about. Mozart.” contemporary music, but I listen “Inspiration is all around outift. Photo by Angie DeLucia ’18. Dan said he first checked to very little music before 2000, and I look to many people for me his fashion muse, and that out Panic! At the Disco, MF -Dan Carroll so maybe I should branch out.” ideas and opinions,” Mr. Chapman serves as inspiration to encourage Doom, and Kendrick Lamar. What is Dan looking said, “but I always remember to people to step up their fashion “I listened to the first Panic! forward to next in music? stay true to myself and style.” game,” says Mr. Chapman [At the Disco] album and that was who make hip-hop and R&B. “I’m just interested to ​Mr. Chapman said his ​He said he thinks that crazy,” he said. “And when I heard “[John Darnielle] been see what the new Taylor Swift favorite piece of clothing is fashion develops over time, ‘For Free” by Kendrick, I was like, making music for like 20 years, album is like,” he said. “I don’t his pair of jeans because they but is also always changing. ‘I didn’t know hip-hop could do all all folk songs,” said Dan, “and like the first single, but not are comfortable, stylish, and Mr.​ Chapman’s keen sense of of this, with all the symbolism.’” they’re all crazy and beautiful.” listening to [the album] is like a slight throwback to the 70s. fashion inspires many on campus Dan has most recently been Besides “Blonde”, Dan said looking away from a car crash.” ​“My ideal school outfit to develop their own look and listening to “Cardinal” by Pine- his two other favorite albums of Dan also said that he’s would be a jean jacket with my jeans adapt their own style. The time and grove, “Saturation” and “Satu- all time are “In the Airplane Over hyped about “MASSEDUC- to create a ‘doutfit’-- denim outfit.” effort he puts into his daily outfits ration II” by Brockhampton, the Sea” by Neutral Milk Hotel TION” by St. Vincent and “Satu- Mr. Chapman also said will surely keep people smiling and lots of Leonard Cohen, and “Yeezus” by Kanye.“I love ration III” by Brockhampton. he commonly wears bright and on our campus for years to come. THURSDAY THURSDAY 12 September 28, 2017 Features Features September 28, 2017 13 KO welcomes new teachers and staff Alex Hoerman Peter Burdge by Neil Hemnani ’18 so they wanted to move by Sophia Kaufman ’20 use skills that will lead to them the positivity he sees, and anxiously here to be closer to family. being more proficient students.” awaits each day of school. If you’re a student in the At KO, Mr. Hoerman will Middle School history Mr. Burdge hopes to bring As a new teacher learning Upper School, there’s a good be teaching Calculus, Precal- teacher Peter Burdge is excited a fun and exciting vibe to the the KO culture, Mr. Burdge credits chance you’re taking a class with culus, Statistics, and coaching JV to take on his role as a new and middle school. He also hopes to the faculty and student body for math teacher Alexander Hoerman. Boys Soccer and Track and Field. creative member of the KO faculty. show the importance of learning allowing him a smooth transi- If you’re not taking math with Mr. Hoerman said that He grew up in Connecticut him, then you might be getting he was simultaneously nervous with an older sister and graduated help from him in the math center. and excited to start here. from Connecticut College in May, And if not that, then you “Starting at a new school, might be seeing Mr. Hoerman you’re always a little nervous “I have always on the soccer field or at the track. getting established in a new Even in his first year at KO, Mr. loved the class- Hoerman already has his hands full. Mr. Hoerman attended room setting. It Williams College in William- stown, Mass., studying mathe- is fun to hear matics and statistics. “I’ve always the dialogue of loved math,” he said. “Growing up, it was my favorite subject and students but even it was natural to continue with it.” Mr. Burdge gives a nice smile. Photo by Angie DeLucia ’18 Mr. Hoerman said he took more rewarding history and how it can affect tion. Mr. Burdge says the help a few corporate internships while our daily decisions. and support from other teachers at college, but when he looked Mr. Hoerman smiles for the camera. to teach them how Photo by Angie DeLucia ’18. Beyond the classroom, and his energetic students make back on his days as a camp coun- to learn and use Mr. Burdge said he likes to use him feel as though he has been selor, he said he felt like teaching community,” he said, “but I was community field trips to teach his part of this community for years. would be the right thing to do. really excited to get to know the skills that will students that history surrounds us One thing that stands out So, he earned his masters students, teachers, and getting locally and is part of our everyday most for Mr. Burdge is the mutual in Mathematics Education to know everyone in general.” lead to them being life. Now, Mr. Burdge said he is respect that teachers and kids from Boston University, took a Mr. Hoerman said that thrilled to become a part of the have for each other. He said that teaching position at Avon Old getting to know and help the more proficient KO Community. “In my short time the smaller class sizes help form Farms, and has continued on students with math has been students. here,” he said, “I am so grateful closer and more meaningful the educational path ever since. really exciting, and that he’s for all the welcoming staff and relationships with the students. Mr. Hoerman then went also enjoyed getting to know the - Peter Burdge students at this great school.” Mr. Burdge gives a big on to teach at St. George’s faculty and working with them. Mr. Burdge continued on to thumbs up to his short time at School in Newport, R.I. and He said that he’s going to continue mention how warm, energetic, and KO so far. He also added that he The Windsor School in Boston, with teaching and coaching 2017. He has been student teaching engaged the students and faculty looks forward to his future with Mass., after which he came to KO. for now, but will ultimately in New London since January. have been during his first couple the awesome community that “My wife and I wanted see what else he wants to do. Mr. Burdge said that this first- weeks on campus. He said he loves surrounds him on the KO campus. to move back after we had our “For me, these couple weeks hand experience gave him both a daughter, and teaching at Avon have been getting into the commu- look into the classroom and a true [Old Farms],” he said, “I knew nity and getting to know the sense of the 21st century student. Maureen Lamb about KO, knew the prestige, community,” said Mr. Hoerman. Beginning his journey, by Emma Smith ’18 just as much from her students as knew it was well thought of, “Once I get an understanding, Mr Burdge said, “I have always they learn from her, she also asserts and so it seemed natural that I’ll see what needs to be added.” loved the classroom setting. It Not many schools can say that Latin is not a dead language. I would want to teach here.” If you see Mr. is fun to hear the dialogue of that they are home to the winner of At least, not precisely. Ms. Mr. Hoerman said his Hoerman around campus, students but even more rewarding the Connecticut Language Teacher Lamb said she hopes to show wife’s family is here in Conn., be sure to give him a wave! to teach them how to learn and of the Year. Well, Westminster students that learning a language School could. But that was last year. is more than simply memorizing After working at West- words and writing translations. David Herrera minster for eight years, coaching “I’d like to create those cultural by Sophia Kaufman ’20 teaching trial gave him the expo- feature of developing these kids.” cross country and track, Latin connections,” she said, “and sure that convinced him that ​Mr. Herrera hopes to use teacher Maureen Lamb decided it show that written languages can The KO community is teaching is his passion. alternative methods in teaching was time to switch things up. “I’d still be communicative. We are fortunate to welcome a new, Shortly after, Mr. Herrera his KO students. Rather than heard a lot of great things about trying to understand the world young, and innovative educator: traveled to Miami, Florida to just teaching formulas and KO,” she said, “and after eight that [ancient] people lived in and math teacher David Herrera. accept a freshman algebra and methods to solve problems, he years it was nice to find some- what they felt, and creating that Mr. Herrera will teach hopes to use a fun and inter- thing different. KO came highly sense of empathy for their commu- math in the Upper School. active method of teaching. recommended by my colleagues. nity experience is important.” He grew up in the Bronx ​He also plans to incor- Weirdly, I just got a really good Clearly Ms. Lamb has a lot with his mother and four other porate life lessons into his of ideas to offer. So far, she said brothers. His family made the most class which can be translated that she’s been impressed with of what they had. They lived the into successful learning for what KO students have to offer as best they could on limited means, inside and outside the class. well. “The first thing I noticed is but he was determined to stand out ​“If I have one main job as a that the students in general have a by taking his education seriously. teacher,” he said, “I hope to teach really good sense of self,” she said, Upon a successful high kids to care beyond themselves, “and are honest about who they school career, Mr. Herrera was use their curiosity to learn, and are. I’ve also noticed that there’s accepted to the prestigious respect others," said Mr. Herrera. a lot of energy. People always Boston College. He spent the ​As a student, Mr. Herrera come able to participate and be next four years taking in a new reflects on his teacher Mr. K, one a force within the classroom.” culture, people, and daily lifestyle. of the few teachers to understand Beyond the classroom, Ms. “I definitely had to adjust Mr. Herrera smiles in front of a him. Through hard and challenging Lamb says she hopes to make to my new surroundings and new board with all of his students names. times, Mr. K remained a strong and connections throughout the KO people that I was with every day,” Photo by Nat Bates ’18. reliable resource for Mr Herrera. Ms. Lamb smiles big for the camera. community. “I guess my main he said, “but knowing I was the Mr. Herrera wants to return Photo by Taline Norsigian ’19. focus is to spread the love and only one in my family to make geometry teaching position. For this favor to as many students feeling when I came to campus.” joy for classics,” she said. “I like it this far, encouraged me to take the next two years, Mr. Herrera as he can at KO. Mr. Herrera At KO, Ms. Lamb teaches to be involved in stuff to explore advantage of all the opportunities enjoyed teaching low-income hopes to have a big impact on Latin and Greek, and is the Assis- language within the community, that college had," said Mr. Herrera. students who appreciated his caring the kids at KO by serving as tant Cross Country Coach. Previ- and to push language learning ​Mr. Herrera began teaching and understanding approach. a strong and steady outlet for ously, Ms. Lamb has also had expe- as something very important.” in 2015 in Houston, Texas at ​“These kids reminded me any student who is in need. rience teaching English, Drama, As if channeling the Greek a summer institute for disad- what it is like to want and strive for We welcome Mr. Herrera with Technology, and Mythology. Not God Helios, Ms. Lamb promises vantaged kids. This six-week a goal. This was the most inspiring open arms to the KO community. only does she feel that she can learn to be a ray of sunshine on campus. THURSDAY THURSDAY 12 September 28, 2017 Features Features September 28, 2017 13 New teachers and staff continued... Mela Frye Susan Emery by Taline Norsigian ’19 11th grade International Baccalau- Indian food, Thanksgiving meals, by Emma Smith ’18 school from the ground up. As the reate English, and 12th grade Inter- and shrimp and grits. When not Director of Enrollment Manage- At KO to stay, English national Baccalaureate English at cooking or teaching, Mrs. Frye Coming all the way from ment, Mrs. Emery was involved teacher Mela Frye said she is eager Charlotte Country Day School said she enjoys reading, hiking, Los Angeles, Calif., Senior in designing the curriculum, hiring for a new adventure and to take risks in Charlotte, N.C. for four years. swimming, traveling, and most Associate Director of Admis- faculty, interviewing and recruiting in a new place and a new school. At KO, Mrs. Frye said of all, making her one-and-a- sions Susan Emery wins the students, and even vacuuming the Mrs. Frye originally came she wants to teach her students half year old son, Thomas, laugh. award for the longest commute carpets. “It’s nice to be here at KO to KO in the spring of last year empathy the power of language. Just as all English teachers to KO. Luckily, she has now now,” she said, “where the furni- to teach a semester senior thesis have favorite authors, some settled into a home in West Hart- ture is put together, and we have class called Robot Dreams, which of Mrs. Frye’s picks are Jane ford along with her husband, a great team to do the vacuuming focused on robots’ artificial intel- Austen, Toni Morrison, George so I can focus on admission.” ligence and its ramifications. Sanders, and Anthony Trollope. Mrs. Emery said she Now, in addition to Unlike most English describes herself as a “serial entre- teaching Robot Dreams, Mrs. teachers, Mrs. Frye has been preneur,” but after years of moving Frye is teaching poetry, freshman fascinated by surgeons and around, she decided it was time to English, and sophomore English. the field of medicine since settle down. This is where KO Mrs. Frye earned her under- she was in high school. comes in. “I was looking for some- graduate degree at the Univer- When asked how she thing with a history that I could sity of North Carolina in Chapel achieved the life she has today, join,” she said, “so that’s why Hill, N.C. where she grew up, Mrs. Frye said the reason was KO really spoke to me, because and she majored in art history. the people around her. “A lot of Mrs. Emery gives us a big smile. the sense of community here is After college Mrs. Frye Mrs. Frye smiles for the camera. great support in my life from my Photo by Nat Bates ’18. something that is really strong.” worked as an art museum curator Photo by Taline Norsigian ’19. friends and family that encour- toddler, and toy poodle-schnauzer. Looking to the future, and at the National Endow- She also wants to teach them aged and pushed me to do the Back on the other side Mrs. Emery said that she hopes ment for the Arts, but she said how to write beautifully, convinc- things that I love,” Mrs. Frye said. of the country, Mrs. Emery to bring a new outlook to KO. she found the work unexciting, ingly, and memorably and how to While Mrs. Frye is at held a variety of jobs in educa- “I bring a different perspec- despite her love for the arts. become more engaged readers. KO, she hopes to build up the tion. She started out teaching tive about the direction of schools, As she earned her graduate Mrs. Frye is also serving as poetry program in the English English in Taiwan, and eventu- to keep up with the changing degree in fine arts and poetry an advisor for student govern- department and make poetry ally became assistant principal at times. In the admission office, at Johns Hopkins University in ment and the advisor for epic. visible and a part of campus life. a school there, teaching grammar I would say I’d like to bring in Baltimore, Maryland, she taught One way Mrs. Frye said she As Mrs. Frye makes her and spelling while simultane- students that really fit in here, that creative writing to undergradu- would like to teach is by using mark all around campus, she hopes ously earning graduate degrees. are ready to engage in sports and ates which is where she said she painting and sculpture as a way to expands students’ understanding Mrs. Emery said that one arts. I do my best to work along- realized her love for teaching. to explore art-based literature. of literature and the world around of her biggest projects before side other admission officers and Mrs. Frye taught ninth grade Mrs. Frye loves to cook them, guiding them to be creative coming to KO involved plan- the whole community, gathering English, 12th grade English, and intricate and diverse dishes such as regardless of the circumstance. ning for and building a boarding input and involving everyone.” Katie McCarthy Samantha Cassidy by Taline Norsigian ’19 education at the University of Saint also hopes to help with Upper by Neil Hemnani ’18 to know the students as people.” Joseph in Hartford. At Williams School track and field in the spring. After getting her MAT New Upper School history College, Mrs. McCarthy ran Mrs. McCarthy said she There’s a new face on from UMass Amherst, Ms. teacher Katie McCarthy said she track and field and played soccer. thought the history teaching campus, and unless you’re a Latin Cassidy decided to come is impressed with the knowl- After college, Mrs. McCar- job at KO would be a great student in the Middle School, to KO, for a few reasons. edge and kindness of students in thy’s first job was at an immigra- fit for her because she loves you might not recognize it. “I really loved the people the first few weeks of the new tion law firm because she thought government, politics, and Middle School Latin Teacher when I came and interviewed,” school year, although she may she wanted to be a lawyer. Quickly working with young people. Samantha Cassidy just took on she said. “That was the first thing not have anticipated arriving here. after she started, Mrs. McCarthy Mrs. McCarthy said her first full-time teaching posi- I noticed and it struck me.” She Inside House One, where said law was not a good fit and she wants to help shape her tion, and she’s excited to be here. knew she wanted to teach Latin, most history classes meet, Mrs. students in the classroom. Ms. Cassidy attended but she is also excited to teach the McCarthy teaches Empires & “I want to first inspire all Tufts University, majoring in Upper Prep art and architecture Republics, and here students my students to obtain a love of Greek and Latin, after which class because she minored in art become engrossed in heated discus- learning, especially in history, history at Tufts. Ms. Cassidy said sions over ancient civilizations. put ownership on them to be she liked the small class sizes and Mrs. McCarthy arrived historians, ask question and find KO’s mission for its students. at KO at the beginning of the answers,” said Mrs. McCarthy. Besides teaching her usual school year and in addition Mrs.McCarthy also classes, Ms. Cassidy will be the to Empires & Republics, she said that she wants to help assistant coach for developmental also teaches AP U.S. History. her students develop confi- volleyball and an assistant coach Before coming to KO, dence in the classroom. for squash, both at the Middle Mrs. McCarthy worked at the “I hope that I can be a School. She’s also a Form 1 advisor. Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High history teacher that can be inspired Ms. Cassidy gives us a grin. Photo by Ms. Cassidy said she was School in Sudbury, Mass. for by [students who] feel comfortable Taline Norsigian ’19 . nervous heading into KO given five years, where she taught U.S. Mrs. McCarthy flashes a smile. asking difficult questions involving she went to Phillips Exeter that it was her first full-time posi- history and an elective in global Photo by Taline Norsigian ’19. race, social justice, economic Academy in N.H. for a year to tion, but she said she’s has a great issues, consisting of current that she didn’t realize she wanted equality,” said Mrs. McCarthy. teach Latin as a teaching intern. experience so far.“I do feel very events and their historical roots. to be a teacher until much later Mrs. McCarthy never Upon finishing a year supported. That was the impres- After teaching in Mass., because her parents were teachers. believed she would come back to at Philips Exeter, Ms. Cassidy sion I got when I visited, and that Mrs. McCarthy moved to Balti- In Mrs. McCarthy’s free West Harford, yet she now lives went back to school at Univer- has stayed true,” she said. “I’m so more, Maryland and taught at time, she said she enjoys reading with her family of five in her grand- sity of Massachusetts, Amherst happy and maybe a little surprised the Friends School of Baltimore. literature, gardening, and spending parent’s old house and teaches to get her Master of Arts in that all my students in all my For four years, Mrs. time with her family. She also taught at a school her friends attended. Teaching (MAT), specializing in classes are so excited to be there McCarthy taught U.S history herself how to sew clothes for her “Last year at this time, I Latin and Classical Humanities. and engaged and asking questions.” and ancient world. Although children and runs in marathons. was living in Maryland with my What attracted Ms. Cassidy While Ms. Cassidy is she said the community was While conducting a three kids and I really did not to teaching?“At Tufts,” she said, already busy teaching, coaching, amazing, she missed her family job search, a position at KO think I would be returning to West “I started tutoring other Latin and and advising, she said said she and the seven-hour car trip to popped up. A week later Mrs. Hartford,” Mrs. McCarthy said. Greek students. I loved watching would eventually like to do more. Connecticut was too much. McCarthy interviewed, and Although Mrs. McCarthy them grow and progress in their “I’m looking forward to the Born in West Hartford, Mrs. in a few days she got the job. may have never imagined coming class, so that was that was the first possibility of teaching a class or McCarthy earned her undergrad- At KO, Mrs. McCarthy said back to West Hartford, she said time I was like, ‘this is really cool; two at the Upper School,” she said. uate degree at Williams College she is looking forward to being she wants to carry on the tradi- I love watching that process,’” she “I would to have a Latin or Clas- in Williamstown, Mass., where involved with clubs, and she is tion of being a teacher who cares said. “What really made me sure sics club in the Middle School, for she majored in political science, currently the assistant coach for about students and pushes them that I love teaching was the year that kids who are maybe taking Spanish and earned her Master’s degree in the girls varsity soccer team. She to do their best for years to come. I taught at Exeter. I loved getting but want to chat about mythology.” THURSDAY THURSDAY 14 September 28, 2017 News Under the Radar September 28, 2017 15 Canada trip captivates students by Lian Wolman ’19 was a very interactive and new diverse architecture around them. got a chance to take pictures in Mrs. Weeks said many experience. “We did a lot of hands- “Québec city has a newer and the press room and there was people were impressed with Ten students immersed on activities,” Mrs. Weeks said. older portion which was really a lot of buzz in the arena that the general demeanor and themselves in a different culture “For example, we did interesting,” Mrs. Weeks said. day because a big trade had just knowledge of French that during KO’s June term trip to a historic reenactment on the On the fourth day students happened,” Mrs. Weeks said. the KO students showed. Canada. The students embarked on second day. The students really began with a quick breakfast, and Of course the group had “As we arrived at June 12 and returned on June 17. enjoyed learning about the history excitedly went on to see the Mont- to try some famous foods from different churches, landmarks The days on the trip through a cultural reenactment morency waterfalls. “My favorite Québec, so they went to a tradi- and restaurants, people were were packed with activi- in this museum and learning part of the trip was going to see the tional creperie. Dr. Briggs said always impressed that we were ties. Upper School French about actually having to protect waterfall in Québec,” junior Char- the crepes were unbelievable talking French. One time when teacher Jennifer Weeks was and you could order any type of we were leaving a coffee shop one of the leaders of the trip. crepe even ones with sea food. called Tim Hortons a few people “Our trip encompassed “We ate a lot of food that night. stopped Dr. Briggs and I and two cities, and I think that It was really good,” he said. told us how impressed they the students seemed to enjoy The trip was packed with were with our French,” she said. Québec City, generally speaking, sightseeing and cultural immer- This group was not only better than Montréal,” she said. sion activities, but their was still skilled French speakers, but they Senior Kevin Becker went time for some shopping. “Students also represented KO well with their on the trip and said he agreed with had free time to shop everyday appropriate behavior and attitudes Mrs. Weeks. “I really liked Québec not in large quantities but an on the trip. “It was a pleasure trav- City because it reminded me of hour here an hour there. The pace eling with KO students because an old European city,” he said. of the trip was busy by design, we were always complimented On the first day, students met but there was still time to shop for paying attention and not being their tour guide who took them on and hangout,” Mrs. Weeks said. on our phones,” Mrs. Weeks said. a walk around old Québec and Dr. Briggs said during free The weather in Canada was Chateau Frontenac which had a time, students were able to really beautiful until it rained on Friday unique view of the city and the test out their French with the local morning, Ms. Weeks said. “We had river. “My favorite part of the KO students enjoy the views of Quebec. Photo courtesy of Dr. Briggs shopkeepers who had thick French minimal rain and any time it rained trip was in Québec when we got Canadian accents. “They were it seemed we were heading inside to see the Chateau Frontenac,” the tower from an attack. They lotte Cyr said. “It was so beautiful.” troopers as they spoke as much for an indoor activity,” she said. junior Michael Autorino said. “It learned what it meant to be a Kevin said he also thought French that they could,” he said. Everything on this trip was was amazing to see in person.” soldier at that time,” she said. the waterfalls were spectac- The students who went on about the students, so often Dr. Upper School modern In the Québec City area, ular. “The view was great, and this trip study French, but it was Briggs and Mrs. Weeks had to take a languages teacher Jonathan the group went to a wood carv- it was one of the most memo- not a requirement. Students did not step back. “Everything was student Briggs said he thought the tour er’s shop where they heard rable parts of the trip,” he said. need to know how to speak French, centered which is why we had such guide was very enthusiastic and legends about Québec from After the waterfall, the and the tour guide spoke in both a good time,” Dr. Briggs said. knowledgeable. “Our tour guide locals. “The people we met day continued on as the group languages. “We had a wonderful Dr. Briggs said the trip was superb and I cannot think of [who] were sharing the culture traveled along the St. Lawrence guide who was a university student was such a success that they any other adjective to describe and stories were just compel- River to Montréal for a visit to the at the University of Montréal and are hoping to continue to travel her. She ran us around like a crazy ling people,” Mrs. Weeks said. Notre-Dame Basilica and a tour of she conducted the tour 50-50 to Canada again in the future. person, but in a good way,” he said. During one of the nights many popular spots in Montréal. French, so we got a lot of language “When we returned from the On the second day, the in Québec City, they walked The group went to the Bell immersion because our tour guide trip on Saturday we were just group went on a sightseeing tour around and got to see an amazing Centre in Montréal which was switched back and forth between looking back and saying, ‘Wow, in Québec City, which they said sunset while looking at all of the another favorite activity. “We languages,” Mrs. Weeks said. this really went well,’” he said. Virtual reality: an actual success by Lian Wolman ’19 have built their own computers students rather than one at a time.” at home and for some of them it Only one student can use the For the second year, was their first time. It was a good equipment for VR at a time and virtual reality technology at educational experience because it actually enter into the other reality, KO has allowed students to taught them not only how to build a but students still enjoy seeing their enter a new world, but this year computer but what each part does.” friends click at what appears to be it was moved to a new room. The new room for VR is nothing. “Watching people do the Many people might not bigger and allows more people to VR is incredibly entertaining,” understand what virtual reality be in the room at the same time. junior Maeve Mcdonald said. actually is, so Upper School “No changes were made specifi- “I hope I can try it sometime.” creative arts teacher Gregory cally to the room for virtual reality,” All the students who Scranton explained it. “VR Computer Support Director Erik have used the VR room come stands for virtual reality,” he Durr said. “Mainly the purpose of out thinking it was an amazing said. “It is basically an immer- the move is to have a bigger play experience, but not all students sive environment that keeps the area because the old room was even know that this room exists. user visually cut off from reality” limited by the width, and there “Every student that has tried it has There is some very essen- was no room for people to watch.” Anan Meraney ’20 experiences virtual reality. Photo by Nat Bates ’18. definitely been like ‘wow,’” Mr. tial equipment needed to actu- Mr. Durr said students are are hoping they come up with better virtual field trips to places they Bateson said. “We encourage all ally use VR. “You need a virtual able to access the room during and better educational software wouldn’t necessarily be able to students on this campus to at least reality headset with control- their free periods when there is a titles,” Mr. Bateson said. “Right go normally,” Mr. Bateson said. try it once, so if there is a student lers,” Director of Technology person who knows how and has now the art department is using Mr. Scranton also intends out there who hasn’t heard about Dan Bateson said. “Right now permission to use the equipment. it because there are some really on bringing this technology it or thinks it’s not really cool as it there are two major brands on It is a really neat opportu- nice art programs. We are also into his classroom. “I am inter- is should just come try it out even the market. We have the HTC5 nity for students to have access trying to get the science depart- ested in potentially using that just for five or 10 minutes. We and we are thinking about getting to this technology especially on a ment to use it in their curriculum room for 360 degree video in have a nice selection of software the other one which is an Oculus regular basis. “I think it is really since there is some really neat my New Media class,” he said. where you can really customize Rift. You also need a powerful cool they are giving students the software for exploring the human “Exploiting the possibility of the experience per student.” computer to run the software.” experience to do this when the body or even going to planets.” editing video shot on 360 degree Students really enjoy using A group of KO students technology is so expensive and Mr. Durr said that Middle cameras and experiencing it in VR with the games and experi- formed a club and actually built new,” senior Ben Tauber said. School Creative Arts Director an immersive environment.” ences it offers once they try it. “I the computer needed to run the Virtual Reality can also be Katherine Nicholson has already In the future, Mr. Bateson love it,” junior Josh Leshem said. VR software. “We have a club used for educational purposes begun using the technology in hopes that KO will be able to get “It’s so cool but I had never tried on campus called the KO 1080’s, where students do not simply play her classes where she uses a more than one set of VR equip- it until last week so I didn’t realize and the students built this high- games. This technology is still Van Gogh experience and uses ment. “I hope we get more so just how crazy it is. In the last week end computer,” Mr. Bateson relatively new, so more advanced Google drawing, which would that people can collaborate,” my friends and I have been in there said. “Definitely a good learning programs are still being developed not be possible without VR. “It’s he said. “Also the room would just about every free period we experience. Some of the students for the purpose of education. “We almost like teachers can take be able to accommodate more have playing the Longbow game.” THURSDAY THURSDAY 14 September 28, 2017 News Under the Radar September 28, 2017 15 AI: friend or foe in the math classroom? by Adam Ovian ’18 In a KO survey of 122 down what you see on your screen, Upper School students, nearly you’re not learning anything.” Plagiarizing in written work 20% acknowledged that they Rather than giving up and has always been fairly easy to had previously used Photomath, resorting to the internet, junior catch: teachers are usually able to Wolfram|Alpha or a similar kind of Amanda Bucknam reaches out to tell whether a student’s thoughts app to solve a homework problem. her teachers when she can.“I’ve and ideas are their own or someone There seems to be two sides gone to see my teachers here else’s. When it comes to spotting to this argument: almost everyone more than I’ve used Photomath, cheating on math homework, supports using the internet in a because you’ll understand it things get a little more difficult. responsible manner to practice more [after meeting with them] However, when a student and learn math concepts; however, than using Photomath,” she said. is able to write down both the when there is a lack of resources Some students turn to work and the answer for a math to figure out a problem or when a friends in their class for help if they problem it becomes much more student can’t get in contact with can’t find a teacher. Senior Chris- difficult to tell whether or not they a teacher, some students say that tina Daniels takes this approach to were the one to actually solve it. the decision to use the internet solving challenging homework. Cheating on math home- to copy an answer is justified. “I usually just ask friends work isn’t new. For years, students Sophomore Aiden Borruso for help if I don’t under- have gotten around doing the shared that he wasn’t totally stand something,” she said. work with answer sheets or even against the use of WA, but only With the understanding that just looking at the answer key in when he had exhausted his options. homework provides insight into a the back of textbooks, but it has “I would say that using sites like student’s comprehension of class never been so easy for students Wolfram|Alpha for math classes is material, Upper School math- to find the answer to almost not a bad thing. I have used it to ematics teacher Natalie Lynd has any math problem. With just a check answers or help me reverse become more selective in choosing tap they have most of the math- a problem,” he said, “but I have which homework to grade. ematical world at their fingertips. only ever used it when I am truly “I definitely am very With a website named stuck… the way I see it is that these specific now with what home- Wolfram|Alpha you can simply resources can be used to help with work I grade because it’s so easy type a math problem and have the occasional tough problem.” to just copy the answers,” she said. it solved instantly. Another Freshman Sean Berman said Knowing that some students app called Photomath allows that he thinks the internet can be a students to simply snap a picture helpful tool to figure out how to and the problem will be solved complete difficult homework prob- “I definitely am for them in the blink of an eye. lems. “If I can’t find the answer to Both of these apps use something, when allowed, I usually very specific now Artificial Intelligence to calcu- go on Khan Academy or YouTube Released in 2014, Photomath can scan a problem with a phone camera and late answers. Instead of just and find a video reviewing it.” with what home- solve it in seconds. Photo by Adam Ovian ’18 looking for an answer like a When asked about whether search engine would, AI allows work I grade a computer to figure out a math “If I can’t find because it’s so An app called Photomath allows students to solve a math problem in seconds problem by comparing it to its with just a snap of the camera. Photo by Adam Ovian ’18 knowledge base. This break- the answer easy to just copy to look at the solution and through in computing has greatly figure out how to work back- expanded the ability of these to something, the answers.” “As teachers we wards from that, I think that programs to tackle advanced math. that is a usable tool,” he said. In addition to these cutting- when allowed, -Natalie Lynd need to say pretty Gilyard also shared his edge programs, another website I usually go on experience working out difficult clearly you cannot called Slader offers a database may be looking up answers math problems in high school and of user-generated answers. Khan Academy or instead of doing homework them- college. “I, myself, as a high school use these sources While a simpler work- selves, Ms. Lynd encourages her and college math student would around, Slader can be just as for this work when YouTube and find students to take accountability oftentimes look at other solutions to insidious with students submit- in completing homework prob- help inform my learning. If you’re ting their full answers to a video reviewing you’re turning it lems by themselves and asks using it solely to write it down on specific textbook problems. them to see the benefit in practice. a piece of paper, it doesn’t mean When Upper School math- it.” in.” “My principle with home- that you solved it. I think that’s ematics teacher Denise Garcia -Sean Berman work is to get practice, and so I kind kind of disingenuous,” he said. -Sandra Goss accidentally included a math of put it on the students to make the Ms. Goss said that she problem her AP Calculus class most of that practice,” she said. thinks the resources that students hadn’t learned yet, she noticed she thought these apps could be “It’s not going to be as helpful use should differ by the diffi- and accessible to everyone.” that a few students were still able used for good, Ms. Garcia said, if you look up the answers without culty of the math course. “There’s With the answer to almost to solve it and show their work. “I think it’s hard. I think there are thinking about the problems first.” a big difference between an any math problem at our finger- This incident was mentioned right ways to use technology and Ms. Garcia also advised Algebra I student and a advanced tips, it’s not likely that this in a feature article in Wired when wrong ways to use technology, students not to get caught up in calculus student as to where type of cheating will ever stop. a former student and freelance and certainly, it can be an asset using these online resources to they can go for help,” she said. Usage is only likely to writer contacted Upper School if you use it properly,” she said. find answers, because it’s easy Ms. Goss noted that increase as technology continues Math Department Chair Sandra “If you’re using it to to think you understand the steps answers for advanced math to improve. Perhaps it will Goss looking for sources for help you figure out how to do a of the problem when the answer problems may not mean as make in-class assessments even an article about students using problem then I think that’s great, is right there in front of you; much to a student because, more important and reinforce programs based on AI to cheat. but I think if you’re just writing however, seeing someone solve with more process work, small homework’s purpose as a way a problem and solving it your- errors can be difficult to locate. to practice class work rather self are two very different things. “In Algebra I, the answer than an image of busywork. “I always use the analogy in is fairly easy to compute and that One thing is clear, though, class: you could see someone tackle could be viewed as cheating too.” while these websites can be used as a problem a hundred times, but that Ms. Goss indicated that the an easy way to cheat on homework, doesn’t mean that you could actu- solution to this problem is to have the decision to misuse them is ulti- ally tackle [it] correctly,” she said. teachers communicate exactly what mately in the hands of the user. This leaves the matter resources students can turn to when Now that students have the of when does using these they need help with a homework ability to solve more advanced apps for educational purposes problem. “As teachers, we need to problems with just a snap of cross a line into the terri- say pretty clearly you cannot use a camera or a few taps on a tory of academic dishonesty? these sources for this work when keyboard, integrity becomes even Upper School mathematics you’re turning it in,” she said. more important. Students ulti- teacher and Dean of Students Wolfram|Alpha’s website mately are the ones who get to “Have you used apps such as Photo- “Have you ever used websites like William Gilyard offered his states that its long-term goal is choose to use these apps and the math and/or Wolfram|Alpha to find Khan Academy to practice material perspective on this grey area. “to make all systematic knowl- internet as a whole to slack off the answers to math problems?” from class?” “If you’re using Wolfram|Alpha edge immediately computable or to actually better themselves. THURSDAY THURSDAY 16 September 28, 2017 News/Arts Sports September 28, 2017 17 NAMES Assembly provides forum for student voices by Esha Kataria ’20 conversation is overdue. scholarship. The discussions we be an introduction of the facili- difference and think this NAMES “I feel the KO NAMES will have through assembly will tator from ADL and everyone assembly could really spark change On October 6, the NAMES assembly will open up a needed awaken our consciences, spur will get to hear from students who in people who go in with open Assembly, a student run commu- conversation about hearing/ self-reflection, encourage forgive- have prepared remarks. It will minds and open hearts,” she said. nity conversation, will take listening to people with different ness amongst peers, friends, continue with the student body Josie said she agreed with place before the entire student Maggie. “I want to help improve body. Discussions will regard the school and make everyone bullying, community issues, and feel open to express themselves. taking action to make a change. I think it’s a good idea because This assembly will be a full kids need to know how to deal day program and KO has done it with issues and not be afraid to two times so far. “It has been trans- speak their minds when in uncom- formational each time,” Director of fortable situations,” she said. Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Juanita said she has high Competency Joan Edwards said. hopes for this assembly. “My Dean of Students William biggest hope for this assembly is Gilyard said he thinks this assembly that we all leave the auditorium is very important for the school. with something to think about—a “This assembly will resolution, a conversation in mind, be a large scale forum where a commitment to making a posi- students can share, and discuss tive change in our lives,” she said. experiences people have had, “Leadership is an integral part of and build empathy,” he said. the KO community. It comes in Ms. Edwards said this many forms and shapes. I want assembly is about what we want for students to leave the NAMES a school that makes us feel like we assembly knowing that choosing matter. “It’s so rare that we can all to be conscientious and kind, and sit down and have the same conver- setting examples of this behavior, sation that’s about us,” she said. Students and faulty members meet with outside facilitators to prepare for the Names Assembly. Photo by Mrs. Edwards. is a perfect way to demonstrate Senior Gabrielle Ruban leadership every single day.” said she hopes this assembly opinions and views,” she said. and within ourselves,” she said. dispersing into smaller groups. Sophomore Alyssa Pilecki will create an environment Sophomore Juanita Ms. Edwards said Ms. Edwards said that at said that she is excited to make where people can be open and Asapokhai said she thinks the the assembly will be a non- the end of the day, it is important a difference at KO. “Even if it’s comfortable to share experiences. discussions will demand that we judgement, action zone. “The and most challenging to come a small difference, it’s still there, “Everyone at KO has had pay greater attention to the words goal is for us to be aware, up with action steps and to make and we’re going to be adults an experience where they have we choose to use everyday, as committed, and loving,” she said. a habit of them. “It is impor- one day and have to make deci- interactions where they didn’t feel well as the positive and nega- An organization called the tant to come up with meaningful sions, so it’s important to know good coming out of it,” she said. tive effects they have not only Anti Defamation League (ADL), A KO specific action steps that how to respectfully do all that “Nobody likes being vulnerable on a local level, but on the world. World of Difference Institute will reflect our core values,” she said. to help us later in life,”she said. and talking about insecurities.” “As a diverse adolescent be coming in and overseeking all As per Ms. Edwards’ design, Senior Angie DeLucia said Sophomore Josie Pinero said community, we represent the of it. They came in and trained the all the discussions will be student- that she hopes kids fully partici- she thinks this assembly will help changing world,” Juanita said. students leading the discussions. led. “They will be the catalysts to pate. “I encourage all students to KO become closer as a commu- “We see every day on the news Ms. Edwards said the help us keep thinking,” she said. attend with an open mind and be nity and will bring up things the the world left to us to inherit—one assembly process will be like a Maggie said she engaged in all activities,” she said. school can work on as a whole. where hate speech can be referred funnel; it will start in Roberts joined the student team “Please leave all your judgements Sophomore Maggie to as ‘rhetoric,’ but a 100 character with establishing guidelines for for a multitude of reasons. at home and treat those how you Eberle said she feels this tweet can take away an Ivy League the conversation. Then there will “I really want to make a would want to be treated.” Midterms return , Controversy over art credits by Luv Kataria ’20 Senior Sharif Mutasim said that that art helps him relax and get his first time since 2012 they are only good if you want emotions out. “I find computer art themselves for the fact that KO offers a wide range to try new things, but if you to be very useful because my dad’s Continued from page 1. midterms wouldn’t be greatly of art electives that are manda- don’t enjoy it, they’re useless. job is very centered around it and to study for their assessments. appreciated or accepted by tory for every student to take. Junior Ben Poulis had similar I find it very interesting,” he said. Just like finals, each depart- students. “I didn’t expect students Students can choose thoughts. “I like them, but they Senior Jaron Stake felt ment will decide separately the to welcome it with open arms,” from five different forms of art: shouldn’t be mandatory,” he said. that art electives are useful but weight of the midterm. Most said Mr. Monroe, “but once conceptual (drawing, studio art, Sophomore Spencer Schaller should cover a wider range, departments have discussed the you get past the initial reaction, painting), theater (school play, had very mixed thoughts about arts possibly including other mediums option of anywhere between 10 students realize ultimately it comes public speaking), musical (band, at KO. “The integration of art elec- of art. On the other hand, his and 20 percent. However, the major down to the school being respon- choir, orchestra), or media arts tives into the KO curriculum has brother, sophomore Brandon difference between midterms and sible for their better education.” (photography, digital music). both a positive and negative effect Stake likes the electives and feels finals is the schedule, which vastly Mrs. Demers said she Due to the fact that all on students. Art electives allow that they are well diversified. reduces the amount of class time admits that the change will be students have to take them, students to express themselves and Senior Jenna Mick agreed, missed. If the midterm schedule unpopular. “It’s definitely not there are a lot of different opin- get a rest from their core classes, saying that she sees it as a way was like the final schedules, something the faculty expects to ions about these art electives. however the art curriculum is for students to relax and not be be a perfect solution,” she said. While some students believe heavily biased towards traditional stressed. “Art brings diversity to However, she said she believes strongly that they better the arts and they should really be based what students have to do at KO, “I encourage it will be better for the student community at KO, others think that more on a medium the student so they’re not focused solely on everyone to have body, as it allows classes to assess the classes shouldn’t be mandatory. prefers, and it should be a open academics or sports,” she said. in the best way for their subject. Senior Kevin Augustine was class that they show at,” he said. Senior Neil Hemnani an open mind.” Ms. Mckee said that no really glad that arts was available Some students also felt thinks that arts elective one has personally talked to her to him and was part of theater. that taking art classes can be should remain mandatory. - Ms. McKee about it, but she has heard a lot “I am really glad the really useful in having and “They expose students from students. “Anecdotally, I school has art electives because managing a career post college. to things that they might have heard that some students it allowed me to explore Sophomore Troy Gostyla not explore otherwise.” students would lose 24 periods feel relieved to have a struc- acting during freshmen year felt that these elective are useful While arts electives of classes, but now only eight ture in place,” she said, “while so that I could do the fall play if someone wants to be an artist. generate differing opinions, periods are lost, which is one per others feel that it just isn’t in sophomore year,” he said. “The elective should shape some- taking three semesters of arts class as opposed to three per class. going to work. But I encourage However, not all students thing you want to do,” he said. credits are still mandatory for Faculty members prepared everyone to have an open mind.” feel the way that Kevin does. Freshmen William Elliott said every student in order to graduate. THURSDAY THURSDAY 16 September 28, 2017 News/Arts Sports September 28, 2017 17 Boys varsity soccer starts to turn season around with 1-2 record by Kyle Zimmerman ’18 “Unfortunately, I did not have time to recruit any players this year.” The boys varsity soccer Following the Loomis team, having already played game, the boys headed over to seven games and scrimmages, Westminster for yet another seeks to improve their already scrimmage that helped prepare proficient skills with the help of them for future games. a new head coach, Hikmet Aslan. On Tuesday, Sept. 19, they On Wednesday, Sept. 13, the traveled to Canterbury School. An squad traveled to play the Loomis unexpected two goals very early Chaffee Pelicans. Although the in the game by Canterbury caught Loomis team is very competi- the Wyverns off guard. The boys tive, the Wyverns kept up their got into a rhythm and were able fight for the entire game. In the to score twice, the first by senior end, however, they suffered a 7-0 Co-captain Ryan Goss and the next loss. Coach Aslan compared the by sophomore Nick Traver. Despite Loomis team to that of a college. the two goals, the boys were never “They have a lot of post gradu- able to catch up to the Canter- ates, full scholarship players, bury team and lost their second and overseas players,” he said. game with a final score of 6-2. The team had yet another away game last Saturday against “Their leadership Cheshire Academy. The boys played well overall but were makes our team unable to take advantage of some better everyday in of the opportunities given to them. Senior Jaron Stake explained practice, makes that this was one of their focuses of the season. “Our main goal for the Senior Captain center back Will Appleton dribbles the ball out of his defensive end. Photo by Angie DeLucia ’18. us work hard and season is to take advantage of every Ryan Goss and Will Appleton as a great scorer and player.” He next year and the year after that opportunity to get better and win,” seem to play a large role in terms said that Goss has scored over they will be the best team in the keeps the team he said. “To accomplish this we of motivating the team during eight goals in only five games. league. “This year we may not must always be the team that wants games and practices. “[They] moti- Coach Aslan knew he would shine, but next year and the year overall together the win more than our opponents.” vate the rest of the team through be coaching here at KO very after we will be very successful. during the season During practices, the boys both example and spirit,” said recently, which meant he didn’t The players will get to learn make sure to put in maximum Stake. “Their leadership makes really have the opportunity to me and learn my practices.” even when games effort. Right now, they are our team better everyday in prac- recruit new players for the team. Yesterday, on Wednesday, focusing primarily on defense and tice, makes us work hard, and He described the team as Sept. 27, the boys played at are not going as shooting, two big areas which can keeps the team overall together very young. “We only have a Green Farms Academy and determine the score of a game, during the season even when few seniors in the top eleven,” focused on given opportunities. planned.” said Stake. They also make sure games are not going as planned.” he said. “We have a lot of soph- Next Wednesday they will to practice aggression, posses- Coach Aslan also mentioned omores and a few freshman.” challenge Suffield Academy -Jaron Stake sion, and the occasional foot skill. Goss as one of the best players on He said that while this in the first league home This year senior Co-captains the team. “He is carrying the team year they may not be that strong, league game of the season. Thirty-two a crowd for JV girls soccer

by Esha Shrivastav ’20 cut and send to cross country, or thought that the loss of four players felt uncomfortable when girls at the end of preseason for we could have a developmental seniors who were on the team last Coach Allerton said “We didn’t varsity and the remaining girls The JV girls soccer team has team that just practices. Some- year had a major impact on the have the talent last year, but this joined JV. Many of the incoming just begun its 2017 competitive times they scrimmage and play quality of the team, but that the year we do.” I personally feel players did not want to join cross season, and it appears as though practice games. I have 24 girls on new freshmen are a great addition. that this statement is disrespectful country. Another reason is that this the team will not experience a the uniform list, and 16 of these “We’re a better team,” he to the seniors who graduated. I freshman class has a larger number shortage of players, to say the least. will go to every game. I have said. “We have so many people was a starting player for some of girls in general compared to the Thirty-two tried out for the team, eight girls that I’m going to dress so there is so much similar skill of the games last year and with sophomore class,” said Kanaan. compared to the 20 girls last year. for away games. The reason why I level. In previous years, skill all this “new talent” some of Coach Allerton had a similar This has led to several do this is because we go to places level change was so drastic my teammates and I feel some- opinion. “There are 93 students measures being taken so that all like Berkshire and Kent for our that I could not divide them up what looked over,” said Kuivila. in this freshman class, which of the athletes could partake in the away games and I don’t want to and have a close practice game “The new girls have changed is a lot more than last year’s sport. According to Head Coach have to bring everyone, especially among the team, but now I can.” the way the team plays. Varsity has freshman class,” he said. “There Timothy Allerton and sophomore if a lot of them won’t get to play, On the subject of how the a lot of older players so they didn’t is also a larger percentage of girls right defensive player Cai Kuivila, so I bring a couple of backups.” addition of so many new players take some good freshmen, so we in this year’s freshman class.” the team has been divided into three When asked whether she has impacted returning ones, soph- got them,” said Coach Allerton. “I think the team will parts so as to achieve this goal. thought the quality of the team was omore developmental player Julia As to why soccer has become have a good season, because “Since there were so many different compared to last year, Kanaan and Kuivila had a lot to say. so suddenly popular, many talked we have so many people who players, Coach Allerton decided Kuivila thought it was. “I believe “I think it’s impacted most about recent US success in profes- are dedicated to the sport and to split the team into three parts: that the quality of the team has of the returning players in a nega- sional soccer as well as the unat- come to practice every day and a developmental team that changed. There is less focus on the tive way. Even though my friend tractiveness of other fall sports. try their hardest,” said Kanaan. practices for a shorter amount developmental girls, meaning that and I were on the developmental “Since the US women’s However, Coasch Allerton of time and does not come to they will not become good enough team last year, we played in games national team has been so had a different response. “I don’t games, a practice team that prac- to join the practice team,” she said. sometimes. Now we never have a successful, many young girls know how the season will go,” tices for the full two hours but Kuivila also said she thought chance to do that,” said Kanaan. are inspired to play soccer and he said, “because last year I doesn’t dress for games, and a practice time per player had Kuivila agreed. “Some aspire towards college or high thought it would be an amazing game team where he rotates and reduced. “Also, since there are starting players from last year,” school standards,” said Kuivila. year and it wasn’t. I’ve also dresses players in addition to the more girls, drills take longer to she said, “such as myself, Kanaan also said that Head noticed that I’m often missing core 14 girl squad,” said Kuivila. complete and you get less chances are not starting this year.” Coach Deeter for the varsity some of my key players during “With the 32 girls that we to practice because you end up Kuivila also said that some team was very selective this games due to other commit- had with various skill level,” said waiting for so long,” she said. of the returning players felt under- year, leaving a lot of girls on JV. ments, which is never good for Coach Allerton, “we could either Coach Allerton said he appreciated. “Some returning “Coach Deeter took very few the team’s overall performance.” THURSDAY THURSDAY 18 September 28, 2017 Sports Sports September 28, 2017 19 Players of the Moment: Senior Emma Smith and Senior Anthony Melody by Sean James ’19 and Sanior co-captain setter Emma Smith. Photo by Angie Senior wide reciever and kicker Anthony Melody. Photo DeLucia ’18. Kush Kataria ’20 by Angie DeLucia ’18.

on her face,” said Barron. Madison and Emma Henry keen guy and nobody works harder Emma Barron continued to say that form one pair, while both the Anthony than him,” Coach Martinez said. Smith is one of the best, if not the Smith sisters form the other pair. “Anthony leads by example.” Smith best, setter she has ever played Coach McKee said she Melody Melody said he wants to play As she puts on her varsity with, and that the team would not thinks it’s nice and pretty cool Varsity football kicker in college and Coach Martinez jersey for her fifth season on the be the same without her. “Emma is for Emma to be playing with and receiver Anthony Melody acknowledged that he can go team, Emma Smith is prepared for an essential part of the team, and her sister in her last go around. has proven himself to be one really far. He also mentioned that her last chance at a title in her senior without her, I’m not sure if the Senior middle hitter Haley of the most talented players Melody went to a bunch of camps year. Smith has been on the varsity team would be able to function Gervino said that Smith is a great on the field. Melody played over the summer and has improved volleyball team since the eighth or run smoothly at all. She is like captain and reminds everyone how soccer in his freshman year at greatly since he started. “I went grade, and Coach Carolyn McKee the glue of the team. She holds us good they are and the abilities they KO and only began playing from a kid not knowing how to says she could be one of the most all together and when things don’t possess. Gervino said she’s fun in football sophomore year. play to a person who contrib- experienced players in the league. go as planned or they aren’t going practice but still is intense when “When I first started playing, utes to the team,” Melody said. “It’s very cool to be our way, she’s the reason we don’t it comes to drills and scrimmages. I had no idea how to play, but my Coach Martinez said that player of the moment. I appre- crumble to pieces,” said Barron. Gervino said in games Smith coaches and teammates helped Melody’s work ethic is incred- ciate being recognized by my Coach McKee said is really intense and puts her all me improve,” Melody said. ible and he is probably one of coach and school,” said Smith. that Smith is arguably the into everything she does. She is Varsity football Head Coach the hardest working men he Senior Co-captain Skylar best setter in the league. also really supportive of her team- Jason Martinez said that Melody has coached. “I am proud and Barron said, “I love Emma so “In practice she is a quiet mates and makes sure that when is very hardworking and sets the honored to have him lead our much. Not only is she one of my leader but steady, she’s super they mess up that they will get standard in work ethic. “Anthony team,” Coach Martinez said. favorite people, but I am so lucky to supportive, and she’s also super the next one. “We all were given has grown so much as a person Melody always works hard have her as a co-captain. She is one encouraging but also very stra- a sheet with characteristics last and emerged as one of the top in practice. “The main focus of of my best friends,” said Barron. tegic,” said Coach McKee. year, and we wrote who we thought receivers,” Coach Martinez said. practices are to keep a nice tempo Barron also said that This year she gets to play on the team had them, and from Melody has helped the and get us game-ready,” he said. Smith is always positive alongside her freshman sister that we were given our captains,” team’s offense and he noted that For the rest of the during practices and games Sydney Smith, which means that said Gervino. “So Emma really he received a lot of help, so it season, Melody will continue and never gets in a bad mood. the team has two sets of sisters embodies all the characteristics wasn’t too hard to adapt to the to put in the work to become “She always has a smile for the first time in a while. that the team wanted as a leader.” new sport of football. “He is a the best player he can be. Field hockey starts season strong by Esha Shrivastav ’20 this season,” said Co-captain they were going into overtime play with each subsequent match. very difficult for her to discern junior midfielder Mia Seymour. for another 10-minute period, or According to both Chal- one or two essential players. The varsity girls field hockey When evaluating the team’s until one team scored, and that ikonda and Seymour, several of When she was comparing this team has recently begun its 2017 performance during these games, it would only be seven versus the freshmen have taken large year’s time to last year’s, Seymour competitive season, following one Mia thought the team has played seven. The seven girls who played amounts of responsibility on said that it has been quite different. of their most successful seasons incredibly well so far. “Our team that overtime worked unbeliev- themselves. “I’m a freshman “Last year, we had an in recent history. The team has has played exceedingly well in all ably hard, sprinted to every ball, and I’ve never played field incredibly cohesive team that was played four games so far, and of our games, given that eight of and played for each other. “They hockey before, but it is incred- basically a big family. Not only these were against Miss Porter’s, our starters, including our goalie, ended up putting in a goal and ible to see how so many freshman that, but we were very successful Wilbraham and Monson, Rye are freshmen.” One standout walked away that day with a are starters and how amazing and our 10 seniors graduated Country Day and Canterbury. moment for her was against win, giving us confidence for they play,” said Chalikonda. having played an amazing season. The team won against Miss Wilbraham and Monson. “We our next match,” said Seymour. “Each of the girls on this Thus, I was a little nervous this Porter’s and Wilbraham and went into overtime during our There were several other team has something to offer to year that we wouldn’t reach that Monson, and lost against Rye Wilbraham & Monson game and proud moments for the team. our play and I have been super same level of comfort and trust Country Day and Canterbury ended up winning 1-0,” she said. Freshman defense player Shreeya impressed with our team’s atti- in each other as I had with my (2-2). “Although we have an equal After playing an incredibly Chalikonda also said the game tude and skill,” Seymour said. teammates last year,” she said. number of wins and losses, it’s hard-fought game where every against Rye Country Day School This year’s defense is She soon got over this good that we’ve put in some wins girl put in effort, everyone was was very important, because it all freshmen - Margo Dowgie- anxiety. “Over the past couple of already, because we have 20 games exhausted. Then, they learned that taught them a lot. “I didn’t play in wicz, Julia Dugan, and Keegan weeks, all the girls have shown that the first game but I was there,” she McMahon - and they have done a they are supportive and caring of said, “and even though we lost, I phenomenal job each game, as has each other,” said Seymour. “We could tell that this was a pivotal part the freshman goalie Caitlin Budzik. have had a lot of team bonding of the season as the team learned In their midfield, they have opportunities, whether it be on a lot while they were playing.” freshman Tori Swanson, who bus rides or practice, and I know Seymour agreed. “This has proven to have really good that I can at least say for myself, game was a really good learning stick skill, and freshman Claire and I’m sure all the girls on my experience for the whole team, not Taylor. Taylor has now played team, that we are all friends and just the new players,” Seymour on the team for three years, work together well. We have said. “Freshmen realized the level and has such an incredible skill eliminated any team drama which that they would have to compete level, enthusiasm, and game IQ creates a cohesive environment.” at and how important it is to listen that she is a role model to all. Overall, the team is to coaches and teammates during Finally, the front line expected to have a good season. play and adjust.” She added that consists of senior Co-captain Eliza “I think we are going to have returners learned that with such Charette, who is a playmaker in a great season,” said Seymour. a young team they would have the offensive end, two freshmen, Chalikonda agreed. “From what to lead and be role models on the Niki Taylor and Cici Chagnon, I have seen of this team, they field, as well as figure out how both of whom have scored, and are very close-knit and work to best use everyone’s talents. sophomore Alexandra D’Addabbo, extremely well together. I think, Seymour said that it was a who has scored as well. because of our team’s together- great first game, and the girls have She also said that everyone ness and skill level, we are going to The KO girls defeat Wilbraham and Monson. Photo by Ali Meizels ’19. continued to improve their level of is essential on the field, so it is have an amazing season,” she said. THURSDAY THURSDAY 18 September 28, 2017 Sports Sports September 28, 2017 19 Cross country is looking to have a very strong season this year by Kush Kataria ’20 jump in terms of training and have strength is putting in effort. “Not new members to push themselves” Thomas Betts finished at 21:09. done more exercises and work- everyone is very experienced but Last Saturday, on Sept. 23, Marottolo further said The boys and girls cross outs this year,” Marottolo said. people are trying new things to both teams traveled to Canter- that the team can run well under country teams are off to a great start Junior Co-captain Taline get better results,” Norsigian said. bury for the annual Canterbury pressure and the goal is to keep with the beginning of a new season. Norsigian said that towards the Coach Goodman said that Invitational. On the girls side, up the pace throughout the year. Both teams had their first meet start of the season, there was a lot the team’s strength is senior lead- eighth grader Julia Lantner placed “The team is tight in terms of on Saturday, Sept. 16 at Choate of soreness and injury. “The begin- ership. “The seniors understand 17th overall with a time of 24:27. time and placement and we have Rosemary Hall. Coming out of ning of the season is a lot of building that younger runners are watching Next for the girls was sopho- to continue this and improve this invitational, the teams are for the rest of season and everyone them and they know they have more Maggie Eberle with a time together,” Marottolo said. looking forward to a strong season. is working really hard,” she said. responsibility to be good role of 25:07 followed by freshman Coach Goodman said “The team is hopeful The girls had strong compe- models,” Coach Goodman said. Jaden Paldino with a time of 26:02. that the team is smaller this that they are going to have a tition on Saturday at Choate. Coach Watson said that the The boys seemed to do year, and the team lost a few good season because they have Freshman Abigail Fernald did girls team’s strength is also lead- just as well. Marottolo placed top runners. “At this point our a good attitude in training,” really well and placed third. ership and new captains. “The 41st overall with a time of 20:48, main focus is building a distance said varsity boys cross country Senior Co-captain Christina leaders are building strong relation- eighth grader Ben Barnes finished pace,” Coach Goodman said. Head Coach Fritz Goodman. Daniels said that the team’s ships within the team and guiding with a time of 20:52, and junior Coach Watson said that the He said that the team’s team has a strong top six, and five goal is for eveyone to be a athletes are returning. She also said better runner at the end of prac- that the team has a positive attitude tice and if everybody is able to but can work on continuing to build achieve this, the team is better. endurance and pace. “This year The girls are hoping to use we have experience on our side, their experience to bolster their so it drives us to be competitive competitiveness. “This year we more quickly,” Coach Watson said. have experience on our side, so it Coach Watson said that drives us to be competitive more some standout runners are Eberle quickly and it is not a rebuilding and Fernald. She also said that year,” said varsity girls cross even with the new additions, the country Head Coach Tricia Watson. team still has camaraderie and She said that the end support as a common theme. goal for the team is to be very “The whole team is competitive in the Founders working really hard, and I League at the end of the season. think we are going to have a Senior Co-captain David good season,” Norsigian said. Marottolo said that the season is Coach Goodman said going very well and the team is that as long as the players push pushing a lot harder than in the past themselves and improve, that is few years. “We have had a good Co-captains Taline Norsigian and Christina Daniels in the first meet at Choate Invitational. Photo by Ali Meizels ’19. more important than winning. Girls soccer starts season battling several formidable opponents by John Leuschner ’18 season on the road at Wilbraham, and center midfielder Ellie anchored by Emma Ouellette. one solid unit, as has [junior goal- an opponent who proved little Bavier paved the way on offense. “We’ve been playing keeper] Charlotte Cyr”, she said. Powered by crisp passing match for their abilities as the However, they were not alone as great team defense in addition to With leadership and energy and effortless endurance, while Wyverns came away winning 3-0. sophomore center midfielder Jamie moving the ball quickly and having from the team elders, young being buttressed with a Berlin The team defense was espe- Scarpantonio accompanied them limited touches,” said Head Coach Wyverns have been coming ready Wall-like defense, girls varsity cially noticeable in this game, in scoring a first of the season. Tracy Deeter. Such skills are of to play, especially Christianna, soccer has leapt to a 1-1-1 start to playing a shutout on the pitch “During practice we like great importance against a fast- starting varsity and competing the season against three grueling while senior forward Emma to focus on always communi- paced team like Miss Porter’s. with girls five years older than her. opponents. The girls kicked off the Ouellette and senior Co-captain cating though each and every This game was also difficult “Having a mixture of new drill”, said senior co-captain and due to the loss of All-New England players and veterans makes the outside back Julia Lantieri. “This athlete Sam March, who is currently field very balanced,” said Eberle. has been a huge help in games playing 90 minutes per game as Willingness and determi- since you practice how you play.” a freshman at Trinity College. nation have also been significant The Wyverns then faced Against Williston, the factors in their play during practice, arguably their toughest oppo- Wyverns again battled every minute hence shaping their game attitude. nent during the second game to compete but in the end fell just “I’ve been really impressed of the season: the Fighting short of victory losing 1-0.“We all with our girls’ willingness Daisies of Miss Porter’s School. worked hard and were definitely to play other positions,” said “The game was hard able to compete,” said Ouellette. Eberle. “It’s impressive that fought. We had them in the first “If we continue to play with we have a team of such well- half while they had us in the the same energy both at prac- rounded and supportive players.” second”, said Bavier. “Emma tices and games, our prospects The girls are aware and had some shots, I had some for the season look pretty high.” confident in their abilities, and shots, and Jamie had some shots, Though they lost a star last because of such continue to set but we were unable to score.” year, the Wyverns have rebounded the bar high; after getting knocked Though the match ended thanks to strong upperclassman out in the tournament two years in a draw, it was one of their leadership across the field and prior, they’re hungry for a return most hard- fought, with strong especially in practice.“[Senior and aim to be back this season. play on the defense from eighth Co-captain and center back With the technique grader Gianna Christianna, Abigail Eberle] has really rein- and fire they’ve shown the sophomore Nicole Genga, forced communication across our toughest foes early on, that junior Camilla Berckemeyer and defense and helped us to play as will be well in their reach. Sophmore Jamie Scarpantonio battles for the ball. Photo by Ali Meizels ’19. THURSDAY THURSDAY 20 September 28, 2017 Sports Sports September 28, 2017 21 Wyverns fight for the first down by John Leuschner ’18 but the Wyverns got ready to play; to get the ball to my boys, [senior ninety-degree day, against a team they again shut out their opponent captain and receiver Anthony who already had two games “The boys gave Mechanized by hard and came out on top by a consid- Melody], [freshman receiver on the season,” said Coach hits, tackles for loss and solid erable margin, this time 28-0. Jeffrey Davis], and [Pettaway].” Brandon Batory. “The boys gave an incredible connections with deep passing, This would not have been Both the offensive line and an incredible effort and Capital the Wyverns fell incredibly effort and Capital short of victory late in week one against Capital Prep. Prep got lucky on After having two strong showings in scrimmages against some big plays Suffield High School and Pingree when they needed all the way up in Boston, as well as starting late to the season, them.” the boys were hungry for a game come this past Saturday. - Coach Batory Though they’ve been prac- ticing since June, the boys first scrimmage didn’t come until Labor true grit on both sides of the ball Day Weekend, where they balled and closed the gap to a 32-27 lead. out against a rather unworthy oppo- However, they failed to convert nent. Playing two twenty-minute on fourth down to finish the drive periods on offense and defense and take the lead. Capital Prep in scrimmage format, the boys then scored on the following two put down their opponents 56-0, Leuschner ’18 and Pierce ’20 attack Capitol Prep Harbor on defense. Photo by Ali Meizels ’19 drives, upping the gap to 48-27. scoring eight touchdowns and The Wyverns made some shutting them out on defense. “We possible without a stalwart defense receiving core have new additions; Prep got lucky on some big first game mistakes: they had had an opponent that was smaller at the command of senior Chris- Pettaway and junior left guard plays when they needed them.” three turnovers and allowed nearly and slower than us,” said senior tian Vitti and astonishing play Ethan Miner. Miner especially gave Scoring in the first half 100% of conversions on both Co-captain Keegan Toland. “It was by the offensive receiving core. good protection and held down his for the Wyverns was lead by third and long, and fourth downs. fun but not too preparatory for our “[Sophomore quarter- side with senior left tackle John Melody, Pettaway and a team Overall the boys fought second scrimmage and game one.” back Sam Capodice] and [junior Leuschner during the first game. safety. They were down 18-12 at through cramps and injuries in an Toland would become a receiver Kyren Pettaway] Soon game one came halftime and shortly after, Capital unforgiving environment. “Our voice of encouragement when the connected really well in the second rolling around after two weeks, Prep came out to score twice, hopes of a league title and New chips were down in both practices series on offense,” said senior and the Wyverns were confident advancing their lead to 32-12. England Championship aren’t and the game.The second scrim- Co-captain and quarterback Ben in their abilities, but exhaustion When the game looked grim lost, but we have to take it one mage against Pingree the following Tauber. “I also had great protection got the best of the team in the end. for the Wyverns – having been week at a time and stay focused on week, the opponent was tougher from my line, which allowed me “We opened up on a humid down twenty points – they showed what’s in front of us,” said Melody. Varsity volleyball sets goals by Sean James ’19 were unable to surpass Hopkins Barron is playing at a new and ultimately lost the set 15-9, position this year, and it seemed The varsity volleyball dropping their record to 0-1. to be working pretty well consid- team has only had a few games Coach McKee said that ering the amount of spikes she was but has shown that they are even this year’s motto is commu- able to convert against Hopkins. tougher than previous years. nication because that is the Barron said the team is great On Tuesday, Sept. 19, the only way good teams win. and that they all get along pretty varsity girls squared away at home On Tuesday, the team well, but she also said, “This against the visiting Hopkins school. communicated well for tremen- is one of the best teams, skill Starters were senior dous blocks and spectacular wise, that we have had in years.” Co-captain and outside hitter spikes. Coach McKee said that Smith said that she likes Skylar Barron, senior Co-captain there is a lot of communication the team a lot. “Even though and setter Emma Smith, senior that goes into just one rally, that we have some inexperienced middle hitter Haley Gervino, is if you want to be a good team. players, we are learning to work freshman outside hitter Sydney well together,” she said. “I enjoy Smith, sophomore middle hitter watching people improve so much Kathryn Westrick, and junior “This is one of the over the course of the season. We right side hitter Isa Raymond. also have a lot of fun together, and The match started off with best teams, skill I think we generally enjoy being a strong set for the girls, taking together on and off the court.” the lead 1-0 in the series, but wise, that we have The girls took on Wilbraham Hopkins would not go quietly. had in years.” and Monson at Wilbraham on Hopkins came roaring back, Saturday, Sept. 23, and again even after being down, to win - Skylar Barron went home defeated after losing the second set and put the game in the fifth set. Nevertheless, the to a tie at 1-1. The girls won the girls worked on improving their third set and then Hopkins tied the communication throughout play game up again in the fourth set to This year the team has four and working together as a team. send it to a tiebreaking fifth set. new people either back from Yesterday on Wednesday, Coach Mckee said it’s hard injuries or just being moved up Sept. 27, they traveled to Ethel to win in the fifth set because in from the junior varsity squad. Walker School for a fierce every other set you play to 25 Both Madi Henry and Haley game, and today they will be but in the fifth set you play to Carangelo are both returning traveling to Suffield Academy. 15, so you really can’t get too from torn ACL injuries , having Having this weekend far behind in the score. The girls sat out all of last season. Sopho- free from competition will would have to give it their all. more middle hitter Bella Leus- allow the team to recover And sadly, that’s not chner was on junior varsity and get ready for their game exactly what happened on last year and showed a strong against Marianapolis Prep. that Tuesday afternoon. performance against Hopkins. This recovery is important Hopkins jumped out to Gervino and Westrick to the team as it will allow them an audacious 8-0 lead at the made it hard for Hopkins to get to focus and think about how they start of the fifth set. The KO the ball over the net with their will do things differently as they Smith bumps the ball over the net. Photo by Ali Meizels ’19. girls doggedly fought back but tremendous blocking on Tuesday. look ahead to future matches.