The Spirit Volume 78, Number 1 /The Final Issue Aquinas High School 685 E. 182nd Street Bronx, NY June 2021 Discovering Aquinas By: Crystal Cepeda Ms. Limardo’s he time has sister, Ms. T come to bid Shirley, who is farewell to the school our supply room we have known and attendant and loved. Aquinas High Aquinas mer- School opened its chandise organiz- doors in 1923. At the er (along with end of this school year, Ms. Hernandez Aquinas will sadly who put together close its doors. What is the online store), left behind are infinite said, “(Ms. Man- memories of the times zanares and Ms. we all spent in the Calabro) also building, growing as found Aquinas individuals. It’s time to china, these get nostalgic as we all bowls that say revisit our fondest ‘Aquinas’ on memories of teachers, them. They go events we attended and back to 1940!” friends we made. As The china was one can imagine, a lot found in the has had to be cleared crevices of the out of the school textbook room, a throughout this year. Aquinas High School deep closet that As a result, many old rel- is situated in the ics have been unearthed within the walls old books within its skeleton. She even lower level near where our biology la- of Aquinas and the adjacent convent. came upon books from the early 1900s. boratory used to be. Items long forgotten have been uncov- One particular book she discovered is (Continued on page 2) ered by the staff and here is where you from 1904 and is titled, The get the behind the scenes look at all these Temper of Seventeenth Centu- treasures. ry in English Literature, a page turner, no doubt. She was Ms. Dalia Manzanares, Ms. Celeste kind enough to bring it to the Calabro, Ms. Shirley Limardo, Ms. English Department and gift it Leslie Limardo and Ms. Kelly Hernan- to a hopeless book hoarder dez have all been working very hard to (me). Ms. Limardo also added prepare the school for closing. First, that many old sculptures and let’s take a moment to remember our sacred statues are in this build- Aquinas library. No doubt, we all spent ing, one of them being a tiny countless hours working on research pa- wooden statue of Mother Mary found in the library on top of the bookshelf that is designated the United States His- tory section.

Ms. Limardo shared that Ms. Manzanares and Time Capsule from the class of 1993 Ms. Calabro also found a class time capsule from 1993. “That’s my grad- uating year,” ex- claimed Ms. Oldest book found in the library Limardo. This pers here, searching for the best sources piece was found in the music for our bibliographies. Whether you room where the string or- looked through a card catalogue or chestra and marching band searched the library app, our library was practiced many songs for pa- always a quaintly quiet space. Ms. rades and festive shows. Did Limardo, our current school librarian, your year make a time cap- has the task of finding new homes for the sule? Do you remember the books in the school. She combed through items placed inside? the library and came to the conclusion Aquinas china from the year 1940 that the Aquinas library had some very Page 2 The Spirit June 2021 Discovering Aquinas (Continued from cover page) When gathering all of the merchandise blue cardstock cover and is embossed was when it first opened. In the photos for our store, many Aquinas yearbooks with gold lettering. you can see typewriters lined the class- of all years were discovered as well. room in neat rows in what is today’s They currently rest in the art room Ms. Hernandez says that perhaps the room 31 and 33. The gold lettering of where many of us learned the color oldest and most interesting piece to be classes such as “typing” and wheel and how to paint. The art room uncovered, in her opinion, is a photo- “stenography” still are present on some of the wooden doors of Aquinas, revealing that they are the original doors that were installed in the 1920s. During that time, women’s careers were pretty limited. Working as a secretary was one of the main positions for women. The original Aquinas uniforms can also be seen in this photobook. Students donned white berets and flowing capes com- plete with white gloves and shoes. Short, curly bobs seem to be all the rage in the 1920s and 1930s. A school drama production can be seen in this book as well, performed by an all female cast.

In the principal’s office, one can see the original PA system. The table and sinks of the science labs are seen and even a picture of the back of the art room. This photobook was a rare find and such a treasure. It brings the viewer back to what Issue of The Aquinite from 1938 seems like an entirely different has been named the Soledad Nieves Art book from the early days of Aquinas. In world. It makes one think about the mil- Center, in honor of an Aquinas art teach- this book, one can view the school as it lions of women who walked these halls er who, through- and sat in the same seats out the decades, in the same classrooms was a colorful as we did. We are all presence in the Aquinite sisters united. school. These yearbooks go As Aquinas finishes off back to 1939. its last year, let us be (Order a copy of grateful to have been a your yearbook today on the part of such an amazing Aquinas online legacy. Let us remember store.) Appar- that favorite teacher, ently, along with best friend, and funniest these yearbooks, moment; all of those a 1938 issue of memories will keep The Aquinite, Aquinas alive in our Aquinas’ liter- ary magazine, hearts. Please enjoy this was found. It is final issue of The Spirit. in pristine con- Veritas forever. dition and has a beautiful light Vintage Aquinas Photobook

Aquinas yearbooks of the past Page 3 The Spirit June 2021 Highlights of the Aquinas Vintage Photobook

Uniforms Library Art Room

Principal’s Office Stage Production Secretary Practice

Assembly

Chemistry Laboratory Stage Production

Stage Production Cafeteria Typing Class Page 4 The Spirit June 2021 The Teachers Remember: Favorite Aquinas Moments and Well Wishes By: Marie Marquez exciting but made her feel very proud of ith Aquinas reaching its final being a part of the Aquinas community. W days, fellow Aquinites take their Taking these memories with her, Ms. memories with them and go on to the next Cepeda also shares that from Aquinas she chapter in their lives. Not far behind are the will miss reading with Aquinites and get- teachers who are still a big part of what ting their reactions to a shocking part of a Aquinas is and take their memories with novel. She will even miss the enthusiasm them. In order to make this final issue of she always had when it came to class les- The Spirit special, it is essential to include sons. Her familiar phrases that she frequent- the favorite memories of current teachers at ly said during classes included "Let me Aquinas. TELL you…," “beware the quiz," and "you don't even KNOW!" Ms. Cepeda mentions First, we have Ms. Sherwood, a science that no matter how many times she taught a teacher and also the department chair of the particular book, the experience was always Science Department who has spent the last fresh because her students brought new and 27 years teaching. Besides being a part of exciting opinions to every lesson. the science department, Ms. Sherwood was also the Student Council moderator, Stage She also says that she will miss the sounds Crew moderator, and more. Besides these of Aquinas whether it be the sound of the roles, Ms. Sherwood would also frequently orchestra, the songs at Christmas concerts, help assist the Marching Band in parades the volleyball team practicing in the gym and, along with other teachers, would work and more. The last words that Ms. Cepeda hard in organizing events for students. When Yezzi’s incredible effort in organizing Book leaves to all of the girls is “YOU are still Aqui- asked what her favorite memory at Aquinas Days, being a part of students vs. faculty vol- nas High School.” She says that Aquinas will was, Ms. Sherwood responded with a very hi- leyball/softball games and also urging students live in our memories forever, and to speak of larious incident that occurred on her first day to be active in their role in the classroom and our memories as often we can. Besides her on the job. On her first day, Ms. Sherwood beyond. When asked what her favorite memory memories, Ms.Cepeda tells me that she will be explains how she was early for a faculty meet- was at Aquinas, Ms. Yezzi claims that her fa- snatching her classroom chair of 13 years. She ing and she rang the bell at the front where Sr. vorite memory is the first Ring Day that she will be taking the chair to her home office and Catherine Florence greeted her and asked for ever experienced at Aquinas. Since then, all will never let it go. her help with something. Sr. Catherine Flor- other Ring Days have been as memorable as ence took her upstairs and asked her to help the first. Ms. Yezzi explains how Ring Days Lastly, we have Dr. Torres, a religion teacher, remove the corkboard off a bookcase. With are just memorable as it is a one-time of the who has taught at Aquinas for the last 6 years. their hammers and screwdrivers, Ms. Sher- year event and fun experience that no senior Besides teaching at Aquinas, Dr. Torres has wood and Sr. Catherine Florence were remov- will ever forget. Besides Ring Days, Ms. Yezzi also served as the Chair of the Religion De- ing the cork board off the bookcase when Sr. also quickly explains that the first Book Day a partment at Aquinas, head of the Campus Min- Catherine Florence suddenly says, “SHHH!” as couple of years ago was also very memorable. istry, and moderator of the Mission Club. someone was coming their way. Sr. Catherine It was one of her favorite memories because When asked what her favorite memory at Florence then told Ms. Sherwood that it may the Book Day was special as it was a day Aquinas was, Dr. Torres replied that she does be Sr. Margaret Ryan and that they should hide where the whole school came together and not necessarily have a favorite memory at as Sr. Margaret does not like her doing things shared a great learning experience but also par- Aquinas, as she believes that there are way too like that. At that moment, Ms. Sherwood real- ticipated in fun activities. When asked if there many to count. She believes some of her favor- ized that she was about to get into trouble with was anything in particular that she would miss ite moments in the school included when she her new boss. This is Ms. Sherwood’s favorite about Aquinas, Ms. Yezzi admitted that she was teaching and learning from her students. memory as she mentions that this is the way would miss the community. By community, Dr. Torres mentions how just simply getting to that she got to know the quiet and dark build- she meant that Aquinas has always been a know her students beginning in freshman year ing Aquinas was in the early morning hours community that is accepting towards all stu- up to graduation is a good memory for her and how after the girls would arrive at home- dents and teachers and that it just has that way from Aquinas. Having been able to see and room the sound would fill in. This is also how of working together to achieve a common goal, cheer on her students’ dedication to prayer, she got to know the incredible staff and faculty which in reality cannot be said about all service, community and getting to see the stu- at Aquinas. schools. Besides, she also says that she will dents’ talents like acting, singing, poetry, and miss her colleagues, all the students, and the athletics has been a good memory and some- Besides, this being her favorite memory at whole administration that make up the whole thing she will never forget. Aquinas, Ms. Sherwood says that the thing she school community. Her last words of advice to will miss the most from Aquinas is the circle or all students are to dream big and to admire the Taking her memories with her, Dr. Torres also the view from the building of the circle en- path it takes to get to those dreams. She also mentions how one thing she will miss from trance. Ms. Sherwood explains how she will mentions “I want every student to know what Aquinas is the beautiful building which in- miss the roses, the copper flashing to the stone great potential they have.'' Besides taking cludes the chapel, the entrance circle and in her bird etched into the portico of the covered memories with her from Aquinas, she also says own words “the holiness of our sacred space.” walkway to the turret that says Aquinas High she takes many friendships and a hope that Her last words for the Aquinas students can be School. She claims that overall the building every generation will work together to make summed up in the way that Dr. Torres de- will always be stunning and beautiful and the world a better place. scribes her students as her greatest treasure therefore something that she will miss forever. which God has given her. She tells them that Her last words to students and graduates is Then, we have a graduate and current English they will always be in her heart and prayers. “You will always be an Aquinite.” Ms. Sher- teacher of Aquinas, Ms. Cepeda. Besides Lastly, she wants to remind all students that wood advises all students to carry the friend- teaching at Aquinas for the past 13 years, Ms. they are loved and are also loved. Having said ships, memories, and lessons learned from Cepeda is also the English Department Chair, this, one thing besides memories Dr. Torres Aquinas as Aquinas will always be there. Last- editor in chief of The Spirit and moderator of takes away from Aquinas is the Aquinas mis- ly, besides memories, Ms. Sherwood takes the Sakura Club. Ms. Cepeda holds memories sion statement, "Educating and inspiring young with her this learning experience. She explains of Aquinas as both a student and teacher. Her women for a lifetime of faith, learning, and how she was never an Aquinite as she never favorite memory as a student was her first compassionate action for a more just world." graduated from Aquinas, but she grew up string orchestra meeting. She mentioned how Dr. Torres plans to use our mission statement there. Aquinas was her first teaching job and she had always wanted to play the violin and for the rest of her life journey and plans to ap- it's where she learned everything about how to how she still remembers holding her first violin ply it to her heart, thoughts and prayers. teach. With the help of colleagues and the that day. This was a very important moment more she experienced, Ms. Sherwood explains for her because she felt like she belonged the As Aquinas reaches its final days, students, how she became better. In the end, in that moment she was in the music room. She still teachers, and staff will all take their memories sense Ms. Sherwood considers herself to be an remembers the specific details about her first with them and cherish them. Along with all the Aquinite. And so she absolutely is. day, like how the room was full, loud and eve- memories, we will take our acquired skills ryone was playing different instruments at from Aquinas whether they are our learning or Next up, we have Ms. Yezzi, a social studies once to tune them. After that first orchestra teaching experience, and will apply it to what- teacher for the past 25 years who also holds the meeting, Ms. Cepeda was in the orchestra for ever new journey we may encounter. In the end chair of the Social Studies department position the next four years while also making friend- we are all Aquinas and Aquinas will always be at Aquinas. Besides teaching social studies ships with all the girls there. As a teacher, Ms. a part of us. classes, Ms.Yezzi has played a key role in or- Cepeda’s favorite memory is her whole first ganizing events and helping with important year teaching at Aquinas. She mentions how causes at Aquinas. This can be seen with Ms. coming back to Aquinas in a different role was Page 5 The Spirit June 2021 Senior BBQ: Blue and Gold Day By: Emily Jaquez with my peers.” Senior Luz Perez also agrees, as fter what felt like an eternity (but was she says how much she enjoyed Blue and Gold A really only a couple of months), the Day as well. “Blue and Gold Day gave me the Aquinas community came together this fall to chance to hang out with my friends who I was celebrate the achievements of seniors as we final- once able to see every day, but now I can’t due to ly received our sweaters. The smell of hamburg- COVID. Since I wasn't able to see them since ers and hot dogs filled the air as Ms. Yezzi early on in the year, it was honestly the best feel- worked on the grill, and chatter and laughter ing to see them again. I also really enjoyed the could be heard throughout the circle (all socially fact that we could dress up and wear the Aquinas distanced, of course). Some seniors were decked colors, it was super adorable. These are memo- out in blue and gold colors to commemorate the Aquinas tradition.

Having been mostly home with limited outside interaction since March 2020, it felt great to walk into the circle and see the people I have called my friends for the last four years. Although we keep in touch virtually, nothing compares to be- Souvenir bell/ Blue and Gold Day ing able to sit by a friend and have a meaningful conversation. After eating and chatting for some receive something I had been waiting so long to time, it was time to hand out the senior sweaters. wear. The senior sweaters give a sense of accom- As a senior myself, it felt great to walk up and plishment, as these items are proof of the hard work the class of 2021 has put in to get to this point. The sweaters also bring individuali- ty to each student, as we are able to decorate the sweater with an embroidered name of our choosing.

Along with the sweaters came a gift bag, filled with goodies like a sticker and even an Aquinas cowbell, which I had never seen before. Comments from other seniors definitely prove that this year’s Blue and Gold Day was a hit. Senior Krystal Monegro says, “I am so happy that I was Leah Figueroa able to participate in Blue and Gold Day. It was such a lovely ries that I can carry on forever”. I can agree that time, and I was able to enjoy these are memories I will keep dear to my heart some of Ms. Yezzi’s DELI- as Aquinas closes this year. A big thank you is Krystal Monegro, Haley and Emily Jaquez CIOUS burgers while chatting given to all the Aquinas teachers and staff who put this event together. This event definitely add- ed some positivity to a very difficult year along with the 50 Days to Graduation outdoor pizza party.

Chria Nichole Thompson, Jessica and Jennifer Astudillo Remembering Self Care During Quarantine By: Haley Jaquez

and relaxation techniques to uarantine. It was a mo- ensure her stresses were main- Q ment in our lives that tained. Things also got interest- absolutely no one could have ing in the kitchen, with both anticipated. A supposed two- Krystal and Luz having tried week “vacation” soon became new recipes, especially baking, an extension of spring break, a lot more often. then took over the remainder of the school year, making its Some students even utilized way into the summer, and this newfound free time to becoming our new normal as switch up their look, such as we know it today. As draining Jeniah Cooper, who tried out as being stuck at home be- new makeup looks. As a form came, it seemed as though of distraction, Senior Kristin just about everyone began to Dallas browsed through Net- find creative, new ways to flix, and binged new animes. spice up their daily routine. It’s definitely safe to say that Aquinites definitely did not Attending to one’s physical and mental health is crucial Aquinites used their free time hesitate when it came to intro- to the best of their ability, find- ducing new activities and hobbies into their going on daily walks, runs, and heading to the ing new ways to keep busy, and exploring lives. Seniors Luz Perez and Krystal Monegro park. Krystal also made note to take good care things that interest them, during a time of their took it upon themselves to become more active, of her mental health, incorporating meditation lives they will never forget. Page 6 The Spirit June 2021 Hybrid Learning: Students and Teachers By: Raelyn Adorno New York City’s public schools took about a traditional graduation. n the year of 2020 and now in 2021, the month to come up with a plan for virtual learn- I COVID-19 pandemic has brought some new ing, during the chaos, the Aquinas teachers and Despite the negatives that the COVID-19 pan- and difficult challenges. Whether teacher or stu- staff already had a plan in place and were more demic has brought upon us, people have found dent, the pros and cons of the pandemic varied. prepared than they could have ever imagined. some positives in their lives that, perhaps, could However, something that both students and Working with fellow teachers such as Ms. Yezzi, not have occurred without it. For example, Ms. teachers can relate to is how difficult it can be to Aquinas’ history teacher, made planning and Sherwood expressed how thankful she was to be attend school through a computer. Ms. Sher- anxieties much easier to cope with for Ms. Sher- home on a more frequent basis to help take care wood, our school’s science and health teacher, wood. of her mother who is a recovering cancer survi- expresses how overwhelming it was to gather up vor, and spend time with her husband. Ms. material and form slides for students every day Anxiety was definitely high during hybrid learn- Cepeda also had the opportunity to take care of without knowing if the NYS Regents Exams ing. Students were given the option of being a her son whose daycare closed permanently due to would still take place or be cancelled. Ms. hybrid student (only coming into the building the pandemic. Kianna was able to take up some Cepeda agrees that the transition from in class to certain days of the week) or a fully remote learn- new hobbies and skills such as getting her own online learning was a lot in the beginning. She, er (at home instruction via Google Classroom). piano and learning how to play it, playing the like other teachers, had to digitize all of her les- Having no social and school events brought a guitar, and going to the gym more frequently sons for the year which took much time and ener- similar feeling. Being part of the drama club, (when it was deemed safe). While the Covid-19 gy. Kianna, a junior, was crushed to realize that the has brought a lot of loss, such as the loss of our play production called Emma: The Pop Musical own school, the loss of lives, and the loss of ex- Likewise, Kianna Adams, a junior, expresses that she and her colleagues were working so hard periences, Aquinites can and always find some how it became difficult for her to be motivated on, could not be displayed to the rest of the good. We have learned to train our minds and our without the liveliness that the school atmosphere school. In addition, the faculty shares their sor- hearts to see the good in everything because we brings. However, Ms. Sherwood and the other row for the class of 2020 and for 2021 in the es- have learned that there is always something to be teachers took pride in how well the Aquinas staff sence that they could not partake in traditional grateful for. adjusted at the beginning of the pandemic. While Aquinas events such as prom, ring day, and a The Quarantine Binge: What We Watched During the Pandemic By: Alexandra Marquez and Marie Marquez shows that Netflix has. Originally made in Spain, uring the pandemic, we all had more time the show follows the lives of a man named “The D on our hands at home, since going out Professor” and eight criminals, who all have code was definitely not an option. Where did many of names for cities. Together they carry out the plan us go to for easy comfort? Streaming sites! We of entering the Royal Mint of Spain and escaping enjoyed binge watching the newest additions to with 2.6 billion euros. Once they enter the bank, Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ as we tried to keep our the audience is presented with flashbacks, the spirits up while in quarantine. backgrounds of these characters and gets to see the outcome of the heist. This show was streamed 1). Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness during quarantine as the fourth season was re- (Netflix) - This miniseries, produced by Netflix leased during the peak of the pandemic. was one of its most successful releases of all time, partly due to its premiere date which was set 4). Little Fires Everywhere (Hulu) - Based on the around the beginning of quarantine. Over 34 mil- 2017 novel of the same title, the miniseries follows lion viewers tuned in the first days alone of its the lives of two mothers from different socioeco- release. Tiger King follows the life of convicted nomic backgrounds set in the 1990s in Ohio as felon and former zookeeper, Joe Exotic. In docu- they deal with the challenges of race, class, privi- mentary form, the audience gets to see the prob- lege, and motherhood. As the mothers, Elena and lems that arose with big cat conservationists like Mia, clash on certain issues in their neighborhood, Carole Baskin, owner of Big Cat Rescue who ac- secrets and tensions are exposed amongst the fami- cused Exotic of abuse and exploitation amongst lies. The show is thrilling, dramatic, and action- animals. The one is both informative and humor- packed as the audience continues to watch waiting ous in its absurdity. to find out who set the house on fire. ing to protect Grogu “Baby Yoda” who is being 2). Love is Blind (Netflix) - This dating show pro- 5). Schitt’s Creek (Netflix) - This Candanian Pop chased down by the remaining Imperial forces for duced by Netflix themselves proved to be one of Media original, follows the once-wealthy Rose his potential connection and power related to the the most binge-worthy shows up to date. In the family as they lose their fortune and are forced to Force. series, participants are placed in isolated pods move to their last remaining asset, Schitt’s Creek, from which they communicate and get to know a town the family bought as a joke years ago. In 8). Pen15 (Hulu): One of Hulu’s most popular each other. From the conversations alone, two this new town, the Rose family must adjust to their original series Pen15 is often labeled as a cringe- people in two separate pods will decide to get en- new lives and conditions as they struggle to find comedy. The two main characters, Maya Erskine gaged, they will then live together for one month their way out of the town. The characters are and Anna Konkle, are two adult women in their and finally, a wedding occurs if the two people faced with dilemmas, but also new friends, hob- 30s portraying middle-school versions of them- agree so far. This series is dramatic, absurd, toxic bies, and people who make their time there more selves in the year 2000 surrounded by other actual but, without a doubt addicting and hilarious. The adjustable. As the series progresses, the audience middle-school-aged kids. In the show, they’re show does a good job of testing the real theory if sees character growth from the Rose Family. This depicted as outcasts, and the two friends re- love really is blind. Be sure to check out the reun- show was perfect for quarantine as it was filled experience middle school with its ups and downs ion episode as well! with drama and comedy. doing all sorts of embarrassing things. 9). Bridgerton (Netflix): This drama series aired 3). Money Heist (Netflix) - Up to date, Money 6). The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix): Based on the last Christmas day and has quickly become one of Heist is one of the most successful international 1983 novel titled by the same name this show de- Netflix’s most popular series with a record of 71 buted last fall and has become one of Netflix’s days on the “Top 10 in the U.S Today.” This series most popular series garnering over 62 million takes place in 1813 during England’s Regency Era views. This show takes place during the 1950s where the famous and powerful Bridgerton family Cold War Era following particularly the life of a consisting of 8 siblings all go out in search of love. young orphaned girl, Beth Harmon, who showcas- es a true talent for chess. As she becomes a famous 10). Wandavision (Disney+): Another miniseries chess player overnight competing competitively on the Disney+ platform that has garnered lots of behind closed doors Beth battles with her drug attention. It premiered earlier this year and the addiction and emotional instability. The music and show primarily focuses on the lives of the Marvel fashion of the period alone are simply stunning to Comics characters Wanda Maximoff and Vision behold. right after all the events of Avengers: Endgame. Wanda and Vision attempt to live normal lives 7). The Mandalorian (Disney+): This show has hiding their true nature, settling in the suburban dominated Disney+ since the show’s initial release town of New Jersey dealing with all sorts of day-to and the arrival of the long-awaited season 2 this -day tedious encounters. As they live through a past fall. If you’re fond of the original Star Wars different decade each episode, the couple begins to franchise then this is the show for you. The Man- take notice that everything around them is not dalorian takes place exactly five years after all the exactly as it seems to be. Uniquely enough each events of the Star Wars film Return of the Jedi episode of the series is based on another popular (1983). The Galactic Empire has fallen and a gun- TV sitcom such as I Love Lucy, Bewitched, The fighter known as Mando makes his way through Brady Bunch, and Full House. the galaxy facing all types of action while attempt- Page 7 The Spirit June 2021 Meet the Papergirls s we say goodbye to Aquinas High School so do we bid farewell to The Spirit newspaper and its reporters. For A this final issue allow us to introduce ourselves and leave a few last words with you, our community of faith and learning. Emily Jaquez per perfectly reflects Aquinas as a tight knit hough math was my weakest subject, Mr. Orfe community full of love and kind hearted people. always took the time to give me a helping hand Reading the articles when they came out were in homeroom. After taking a heavy amount of always nostalgic and made me feel proud of notes in a prior class, I would sigh a breath of myself. relief when walking into religion and seeing Dr. Torres had a movie for us to watch. More than Aside from the newspaper, I also took part in anything, I will miss all the hectic moments I String Orchestra and Marching Band. These once took for granted before the pandemic. clubs made me realize my passion for playing Running up the stairs at 7:59 to get to home- music and really helped me come out of my room, changing at the speed of light for gym shell, so it is definitely one of my favorite parts class with Mrs. Breden, and even quickly get- of Aquinas. Practicing sometimes for 2-3 hours, ting on a computer to print a research paper in 4 days a week was definitely tiring, but I en- the crowded library. Nonetheless, I will miss joyed every minute of it. At times, our perfor- the second home Aquinas was giving me. mances would sound so awful that we would Learning remotely, there truly is not the same doubt we were ready for our upcoming con- connection as being in school with everyone. certs. Nonetheless, everyone knew when to get This year was definitely not the type of senior to work in order to come together as one sound. year I envisioned to have, and I sometimes wish Our coordinator and conductor, Steven Finkel- things would go back to the way they used to stein, was not like your ordinary teacher. He be. was very lighthearted and funny, but also knew when to get serious when necessary. Not all of As for my future plans, I will be attending Ford- these practices were strictly play, though. They ham University in the fall, at the Rose Hill cam- had many fun moments in between, such as pus here in the Bronx. Being in close proximity running down to the vending machines for a to Aquinas will definitely be a bittersweet feel- snack break, showing Steve the latest meme or ing, but I am excited for the next chapter of my funny video (to which he often gave a straight life to unfold. Although I applied as a psycholo- face), worrying about upcoming tests, and even gy major, I will instead major in political sci- ello, fellow Aquinites! For those of making TikToks. ence. After college, I hope to go to law school H you who don’t already know me, my and become a civil rights lawyer. To my Aqui- name is Emily Jaquez and I am currently a sen- With all honors classes and 3 APs classes my nas community, I would like to give the biggest ior. I can tell you my time at Aquinas was defi- junior year, I sometimes felt like there was no thank you. To my teachers and staff, thank you nitely 4 years I will always remember. As a moment to rest. However, thinking back, some for making me feel empowered, smart, and con- freshman, I was a bit shy and was scared to put of my favorite memories actually come from fident as I continue on to college. To my myself out there and make friends. Soon inside the classroom. I always loved when Ms. friends, thank you for always being there even enough, my worries were put at ease as I soon Yezzi would bring her dog Dexter to class and during the toughest of times. Words cannot ex- met the group of young women I now call my he would bark very loudly, to which Ms. Yezzi press my appreciation for everything you have best friends. As a freshman, I joined The Spirit would have to stop teaching to comfort him. I done for me. Although saying bye to Aquinas as I had always had a passion for writing. I felt also loved that I got to pet him after class. I en- will definitely be a hard thing to come to terms as though writing in the newspaper would give joyed chemistry labs with Ms. Sherwood, where with, I am grateful for my time here and all the me the chance to put myself out there to the I laughed with my lab partners when our experi- memories I have made. school community. To me, The Spirit newspa- ments almost always failed at the first try. Alt-

Haley Jaquez Spirit was still made worthwhile, and has the sacrifice to stay with Aquinas through ey! My name is Haley Jaquez, been an unforgettable experience. its last year, I, on behalf of all students, H and I am currently a senior. I ini- thank you, as this would not be possible tially had my heart set on Barnard College, Throughout my entire high school experi- without your hard work and dedication. my dream school, but was faced with reali- ence, I’ve had some of the most memora- ty when I was waitlisted. Now, I’ve under- ble moments in classes, with teachers, stood that everything really happens for a and with those who I am grateful to call reason, and am very excited to say that I’ll my best friends. It’s pretty difficult to be attending Fordham University in the actually pinpoint just one memory at fall. As for right now, I am planning to ma- Aquinas and deem it my favorite. All of jor in biology, possibly on the pre-health my favorite moments were during lunch, track. With this, I will be able to pursue a orchestra, and marching band. I remem- career either as a physical therapist or vet- ber being in the cafeteria and laughing so erinarian. However, knowing how indeci- hard I choked on my food, cramming to sive I am, I wouldn’t be too surprised if my study for tests or finish homework that plans are completely different by the time was due the next period, and even mak- school starts in August. ing TikToks. The same can be said for orchestra and marching band, where we It feels so surreal to say that this is the last shared snacks, cracked corny jokes with piece I’ll be writing for The Spirit. I joined Steve, and laughed at ourselves when our freshman year, anxious for what was in practices sounded like a train wreck. Be- store. I hoped to find an outlet in which I ing able to physically gather and share could express myself to my school com- that sense of sisterhood and togetherness munity through my love of writing. During is what I will miss the most about Aqui- my time writing for the newspaper, I’ve nas, and feel as though it is something received that and more. I’m definitely you really can’t find anywhere else. more introverted, so being able to present ideas on paper rather than verbally always To my fellow seniors and juniors, we felt more comfortable to me. Despite being made it through a very difficult year, and interrupted by the pandemic, I feel as I’m positive that there are great things in though my time at Aquinas, and with The store for us. To those teachers who made Page 8 The Spirit June 2021 Alexandra Marquez

end I am glad that I was able to join the y name is Alexandra Marquez and Aquinas Spirit newspaper where I have M I am currently a senior here at learned a lot from myself and others. Aquinas. As many of you may or may not know I have been part of the Spirit newspa- My favorite Aquinas memory definitely per club here at Aquinas since my freshman has to be participating and helping out with year. I remember nervously entering the our annual Halloween Wars. I know like first group meeting one afternoon not know- every other person I will deeply miss Aqui- ing what to expect. As the year went on I nas and the community but I look ahead felt more comfortable and engaged with all onto the future with optimism and hope. I the other girls openly expressing ideas for will continue to take with me the vital life the paper. I have genuinely enjoyed my lessons that being at Aquinas has taught me. time being a writer for the school newspa- In college, I plan to participate in a similar per because it has allowed me to step into activity like newspaper. I plan to attend the shoes of a journalist and write on a vari- Lehman College with the intention of ma- ety of topics ranging from my own personal joring in Health Administration with a mi- interests, school activities, pop culture, poli- nor in sociology in hopes of becoming a tics, and even interview teachers and other health administrator in the nearby future. staff members who have joined our Aquinas Nevertheless, I can’t wait to see what the community. As the year comes closer to an future holds for each and every one of us. Marie Marquez

y name is Marie Marquez and I very chaotic day which made it enjoya- M am in the 12th grade. Being a ble for me. The thing I will miss about part of the Aquinas newspaper staff was Aquinas the most is the school building, an incredible experience. I still remem- the teachers, and the incredible atmos- ber in freshman year, when I was hesi- phere that makes Aquinas what it is. My tant to join The Spirit but ultimately de- college plans include majoring in mathe- cided to join it and stuck around for 4 matics and using that degree towards any years. In these years, I got to increase my job I attain later in life. writing skills but also ponder on new sto- ries and learn more about my fellow My future goals consist of making the peers but also teachers and staff mem- most out of my time, finding new inter- bers at Aquinas. I am very grateful for ests and seeking out more experiences. having been in The Spirit and take the The parting words I leave for the Aqui- memories with me. nas community are that these years were filled with many ups and downs, and As Aquinas reaches its final days, I think sooner or later we will all miss Aquinas; my favorite memory would have to be but, there should be no sadness about the when the whole school went to the mov- school closing as our time in Aquinas ie theater and watched The Hate U Give. was part of our learning experience and I think it was a very fun memory and a there is still much more to learn and live. Raelyn Adorno ior. I'm the tall girl with the long curly with the song again! I made sure to turn hair, and some of you guys might’ve off the ringer correctly this time, but that seen the top of my head in classes. But experience was one of my most horrify- that’s me. Being in the middle of the jun- ing and comical memories at Aquinas. ior and senior world of high school, I understand the happiness and sorrow that Stepping out of Aquinas and saying comes with both. But this isn’t the end, goodbye to it for the last time is heart- not any time soon for any of us. Whether breaking. I can’t even bear it. As many we like it or not, we got something out of times as I said I hated it in the early this building that we’ve had a love-hate mornings, or as many times as I cursed it relationship for the past three to four for housing my math classes, I realize years. how much I love it here. I love the build- ing and all the friends it gave me. I love I know one of the funniest memories I the memories that I’ve made and how have at Aquinas was during a Spanish proud my family is with my accomplish- class. When the kids’ song, “Baby ments in this community. Aquinas has Shark” was trending, I put it as my ring- taught me to take pride in how far I’ve tone just for kicks. One day after lunch, I come, and to have faith in how far I’ll forgot to turn off the ringer on my phone go. I aspire to be a nurse and join the Air and rushed from the lunchroom all the Force. I want to be able to help people way to my third floor Spanish class. and reflect that caring value that my djusting to this “new normal” has About 15 minutes into class time, the friends and teachers have shown me. We A been one of the most rewarding silence in the room was filled with an are all scared because there is no path and worst experiences of my life. I get echoing chant of “Baby Shark!” My that we can follow. But this is an oppor- that most of us in the school now are ei- heart dropped as some people exploded tunity for all of us to get up, start walk- ther juniors or seniors. But with COVID, into laughter while others sang along. ing, and leave a trail for others to follow. some of us are in the middle. Most of My Spanish teacher just sat there con- Fortune truly favors the bold, and we you reading this don’t know me, but my fused, and I quickly shut it off. Two won’t know what we’re capable of un- name is Raelyn and I'm a graduating jun- minutes later and the silence was filled less we try. Page 9 The Spirit June 2021

To the Aquinas Community,

Thank you for viewing our paper over the years. It was our pleasure to interview you all and construct the pieces that bring this publication together. We have enjoyed talking with you and hearing your perspectives while joining you in all the fun, educational and influential Aquinas events. We hope there have been stories here that live in your memory for- ever, if not a funny meme or a memorable crossword puzzle. We sincerely appreciate your support and wish you all the very best in all things to come.

May you and your loved ones be blessed. For the final time, “May The Spirit be with you.”

Crystal Cepeda Editor in Chief AQUINAS MEMES

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The Spirit Aquinas High School 685 East 182nd Street Bronx, NY 10457

Editor in Chief: Ms. Crystal Cepeda

Staff: Raelyn Adorno Emily Jaquez Haley Jaquez Alexandra Marquez Marie Marquez

The Spirit thanks all who were inter- viewed and provided pictures for this issue.