EXPRESSIONSSLOHS May Issue 2019 slohsexpressions.com

Clea Wendt

Olivia Dong

Political Participation Pages 8&9

Janea Huber 2 Table of Contents Kara Hoover expressions May 2019 3 Staff List 10 & 11 Sports Champions Everywhere... But Who Gets a Ring? 4 & 5 Highlighting Non-School Sport Athletes Culture The Stress Of CIF Emancipation: The Extent Of Freedom Spot The Dress Code Violation Secrets Of The Cafeteria 12 & 13 Arts & Entertainment Art School Students: The Future Of Ex- pression The Roper Photo Gallery 6 & 7 The Romanticization Of Serial Killers Opinion The Perks Of The Cuesta Promise 14 & 15 Comparing Woodstock 1969 To Woodstock 2019 Millenial Parents Just Don’t Get It People SLOHS Students React To The Competitive College Admissions Process Senior Cormac Jenkins Plans To Serve Our Coun- try What It’s Like To Be a Conservative Teacher On a 8 & 9 Liberal Campus Feature Voices Within the Voting Box 16 The Importance of Political Participation Future Voters Get Pumped! Back The Road to the Ballot Box Teacher Prom Throwback Pictures

Illustration Courtesy of Kayley Rolph May 2019 3 Expressions Staff Editorial Staff Reporters Kara Hoover Kaya Burden Editor-in-Chief Sasha Cederburg Feature Editor Katie Cole Alexis Haas Katinka Hecter Kaylee Beardsley Isabella Hoffmann Opinion Editor Taryn Lonsbrough Liberty Massman Jena Naficy Hannah Peterson Culture Editor Kayley Rolph McKenna Cassidy Joella Holmes Scout Corpuz-Carr Arts and Robert De La Cruz Jr. Ana Esclara Entertainment Editor Krista Garza Katerina Grondin Zoey Nitzel Torstein Kloeven People Editor Brooke Larson Zoe Maxie Nina Ramezani Sonia McSwain Sports Editor Cassidy Olson Web Editor Marina Rosnau Gabriella Schroeter Jonaton Schmidt-Denker Andrew Vander Weele Braelynn Whitson Adviser: Scott Nairne [email protected]

1020 Railroad Ave, San Luis Obispo, Ca

Disclaimer: Official Student Publications “The San Luis Coastal Unified School District is committed to upholding the rights of each student to free expression, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article I of the California Constitution and the California Education Code. Consistent with California Education Code section 48907, stu- dents will publish only legally protected speech, which does not include obscene, libelous or slanderous material, or unwarranted invasions of privacy. Students will also refrain from publishing material which so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on school premises or the violation of lawful school regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school. The views, opinions, and content expressed herein are those of the stu- dent author(s). Therefore, the content may not necessarily reflect the official policies, opinions, or positions of the San Luis Coastal Unified School District, its schools, administration, faculty, staff, or the Board of Education.” 4 culture Editor: Jena Naficy Emancipation: the extent of freedom

By Isabella Hoffman

Students at San Luis Obispo High School between the ages of 14 and 18 can be legally emancipated. Emancipation is the act of a minor legally freeing themselves from the supervision of their parents or guardian, as well as the parents or guardians having no legal responsibility of their child. This option is in place to accomodate minors wants to enlist into the army, or those whose living arrange- ment with their parents is not healthy. Expressions interviewed Heather Sutton-Buckley, a local attorney and public defender, to get a better understanding of what exactly emancipation is.

Expressions: What exactly is emancipation? Attorney Heather Sutton-Buckley: Emancipation is a legal process that frees a child who is between the ages of 14 and 18 from the custody and control of their parents or guardian.

Expressions: What are factors that a minor could look for to believe emancipation might be necessary? Sutton-Buckley: You are at least 14 years old, you live separate and apart from your parents or guardian with their consent, you earn your own income and manage your own finances, your source of income is legal, and emancipation is in your best interests- it will make a positive impact on your life.

Expressions: What are some situations that are unnecessary for emancipation? Sutton-Buckley: If you do not want to live at home with your parents, you do not necessarily need to get emancipated. You could attend counseling or mediation with your parents or guardian, live with another adult (like an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or family friend), seek help from public or private agencies, or make an agreement with your parents or guardian to live somewhere else.

Expressions: How would a minor look into an emancipation court order? Sutton-Buckley: A minor should always seek the advice and counsel of a lawyer before applying for emancipation. There are 3 ways to get emancipated: Get married. You will need permission from your parents and the court. Join the armed forces. You need permission from your parents, and the armed forces must accept you. Or get a declaration of emancipation from a judge.

Disclaimer: The information shared by Attorney Heather Sutton Buckley is for general information purposes only. Ms. Buckley’s responses should not be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing of this information does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. May 2019 CULTURE 5 Spot the Violation!

By Kara Hoover

Many students at San Luis Obispo High School are aware that there is a dress code, but with violations walking past us everyday without any consequences, it is hard to remember what the rules are. Dress codes are currently a heated topic of discussion because many students find them sexist and not enforced consistently. Regardless of your opinion on the rules, Expressions decided to put

together some photographs to see if you can catch dress code violations.

thigh; bare shoulders bare thigh; exposed

midrift; skirt shorter than mid- than shorter skirt midrift; undergarments shoulders; bare bandana of display Secrets of the Cafeteria By Katinka Hecter Ever wondered how much food goes to waste here at San Luis Obispo High School? Expressions set out to discover what kids do with their food if they have leftovers, and to see how many buy food even though they have food from at home.

Expression: How much food goes to waste in the SLOHS cafeteria? Cafeteria Lead Allison Eaton: Of course we can’t save the new cut cucumbers and salad and use it the next day. So it’s mostly produce that goes to waste.

Expression: Do you buy food even though you have food with you from at home? Senior Grayson Perlmutter: Yes I do sadly. I only do it when I eat my food before lunch or when im just really hungry. Junior Nicole Andersen: YES! Because the lunch my mom packs me is really healthy and I don’t wanna eat spinach every day for lunch. Junior Malia (Xiao) Gin: If I bring food from home I don’t buy food because that would just be stupid. Junior Sage Cannon: Yes, because every time I bring food from at home, as soon as I reach lunch it just doesn’t sound good to me any more.

Expression: If yes, what do you do with your leftovers? Perlmutter: I normally take it home or eat it on the way home. Anderson: I either just throw it out or give it to someone that wants it. Cannon: I just throw it out, I know it’s bad but I don’t want to save it.

Expression: What is the estimated waste here on SLOHS? Where does the waste go? Eaton: it is quite a bit because we require them to eat fruit and vegetables with each of their meals because of the USDA requirements. 6 Opinion Editor: Kaylee Beardsley The Perks of the Cuesta Promise By Kayley Rolph

Many San Luis Obispo High School students and their parents have a stigma against attending a community college instead of a four year university right after graduating from high school when in fact it may be the best decision for those who are unsure about their path in life. For students who have a clear idea of what they want to major in and what career they wish to pursue, the four year univesity of their dreams will likely be the best choice for them, but for the rest of us, it likely isn’t. As a senior at SLOHS I spent most of junior year and senior year preparing to attend a four year university, I took the SAT last May, numerous AP classes and tests, wrote essays for the Common Application, the UC Application, and the CSU Application, all while polishing my resume with summer jobs, volunteer work, and varsity sports. This is as exhausting as it sounds, and like many of my classmates, I was so focused on getting into college that I forgot to think about what I would do once I got in. I thought about becoming an engineer and the how many calculus, chemistry and physics classes I would have to endure before getting my degree and then spending my career stuck in front of a computer. I played with the idea of studying history because I enjoyed my AP European History and AP United States History classes so much, but stopped after I researched the career options with that major. I soon came to the conclusion that I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do with my life, with all my interests and ideas for the future swirling in tornado of confusion and anxiety in my head. The thought of going to a competitive university and paying upwards of $24,000 a year to hopefully find some sort of direction in life brought me to tears. Despite the constant pressure from parents, college counselors, siblings and fellow classmates to attend a 4 year university, it is definitely not the only or even the best option for many. With the Cuesta Promise scholarship program which is available to all San Luis Obispo County High School graduates, SLOHS students receive two years college education for free. Additionally, with university transfer programs set up for student planning on finishing their bachelor’s degree at a four year, SLOHS students can finish two years at a junior college, finish their General Education requirements, all while exploring their interests to find their true passion. Illustration by: Kaylee Beardsley Kaylee by: Illustration

Comparing Woodstock 1969 to Woodstock 2019 By Isabella Hoffmann

Woodstock 1969 was one of the most iconic music festivals in The bathroom and sleeping arrangements of Woodstock 69 the history of music. Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, and Jimi Hen- were very unsanitary and there was not enough food. In 2019, drix were only some of the fantastic musicians who performed. there would obviously not be unsanitary conditions. Howev- In 2019, there will be a Woodstock 50, in honor of 50 years since er, the conditions 50 years ago is what made the whole experi- the first Woodstock music festival. Students at San Luis Obispo ence of Woodstock one of the most iconic music festivals ever. High School have mixed opinions about this years Woodstock 50. This year’s Woodstock lineup is not all rock, but is very sim- “Even from a person who’s not the most into rock mu- ilar to Woodstock 69 by having underground artists per- sic, I like a lot of people from then. Especially Grateful Dead, form. Many of the artists from Woodstock 69 were not very even though their set was pretty interesting. It’s definitely a well known, which is very similar to Woodstock 50’s line- tragedy, because the people who are trying to go to Wood- up. Jimi Hendrix was not the Jimi Hendrix the world now stock, want a specific thing and what the people are creating knows when he played at Woodstock 69, with his incredible is this weird mix of pop music and new wave rock bands. I performance of “The Star Spangled Banner”. There are lots don’t think they will ever be able to recapture it. They should of musicians this year that are not very popular, such as, Ni- just make something else,” said junior Lorenzo Cortese. tet Tayb, John-Robert, Amigo the Devil, and many more. Woodstock 50 will be unable to recreate the powerful In the end, Woodstock 2019 will not be the same as Wood- music from 1969. Halsey, Miley Cyrus, Chance the Rap- stock 1969, because there’s hip hop and pop in this years set- per, and Earl Sweatshirt are some of the artists that are not list. Even though the hygiene and food conditions will be im- rock ‘n’ roll. Artists such as Canned Heat, Santana, and mensely better this time around, the music of Woodstock David Crosby and Friends are also performing at Wood- 69 will forever be one of the most iconic music festivals of all stock 2019 and previously performed at Woodstock 1969. time, and no recreation of this festival will ever be as incredible. May 2019 OPINION 7 Millenial Parents Just Don’t Get It

By Hannah Peterson

San Luis Obispo High School students are becoming more in- their child to express themselves freely, the potential risks could clusive each year. Through the GSA club on campus, students lead to a sheltered child that doesn’t understand where they fit in have the chance to learn about gender, sexuality, the broad spec- this still very binary world. trums one can lie within, and how to be more accepting. Obviously, this doesn’t mean shoving gender stereotypes down Fortunately for children who are LGBTQ+, parents are learning your kid’s throat. That’s the other extreme side of this argument. how to be more accepting as well. Or, as seen in the recent par- But not knowing what you’re assigned at birth, and general un- enting fad, overcompensating. A handful of parents now choose derstandings of gender can lead to a lot of confusion and anger to raise their children without gender. These children are “gender for a kid. neutral”, use gender neutral pronouns, and allowed to play with If you wants to be inclusive, not conform to gender stereotypes, both “boy” and “girl” toys. However, this parenting fad takes gen- and allow your child to express themselves… then do just that! der stereotypes, or the lack thereof, to an almost-extremist level A boy can wear dresses and have long hair, and a girl can like that isn’t necessarily required. science and have short hair. Parents should provide their child Throughout history, humanity has thrived off of labels and defi- with the knowledge regarding the vast spectrum of gender, and nitions that allow individuals to understand themselves as well the tools for them to decide where they think they fit within that as how they fit in the world around them. This led to the devel- spectrum. opment of religions, classism, nationalism, generations such as The ability to accept others starts at an extremely young age, the Baby Boomers or Gen Z, and the concept of gender. Many and the proper discussions and upbringing have a direct effect on gender stereotypes are harmful, such as “boys don’t cry” or “girls SLOHS students, as well as the rest of society’s progress towards a are weak”. But while these gender-neutral-raising parents want spectrum world rather than a binary one.

Illustration by: Kayley Rolph 8 Feature Editor-in-Chief: Kara Hoover The Importance of Political Participation

By Kayley Rolph

Many San Luis Obispo High School students will have their first leaders from corrupt politicians who will be easily bought by cor- opportunity to vote in this coming Presidential election in Novem- porations. In a world where information is so abundant and the ber of 2020; with the increased polarity in politics it is important internet constantly bombards us with all sorts of “fake news” it is that we are informed and politically aware when we cast our votes. imperative that we find reliable sources for that information that The United States of America was founded as a democratic soci- will keep us informed on the political scene. ety. This means that American citizens have a government of elect- Our generation is faced with a unique set of issues like climate ed representatives which relies on citizens that actively participate change and LGBTQ+ rights that previous generations have not in the decision-making of the government. Over the centuries as had to deal with. With declining voter turnout rates it is that much our country has grown in both population and the amount of land more important that we as a generation seize the opportunity to we occupy resulting in more complicated issues that our govern- advocate for policies and politicians we believe will solve these is- ment has the difficult task of dealing with. sues. In 1964, 51 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and Political awareness is one’s knowledge of public policy, how the 24 voted. In 2012, only 38 percent of the same demographic went government functions, and the agendas driving politicians. Being to the polls. We can turn these statistics around by encouraging our politically aware enables citizens to better discern quality political classmates and peers to go out and vote! Voices Within the Voting Box

one else,” said senior Thomas Prater. By Alexsis Haas Student activism has been the main source of the Vote16USA campaigns. None of the cities who have passed the measure within With adolescent political participation being a wide topic of con- their city have been run by influential adults. The USA main site is versation at San Luis Obispo High School, Vote 16 has been a cam- run by the Advisory Board and Student Advisory Board. The Advi- paign student have begun to support. sory board consists of academics, policymakers, and other profes- Since the official Vote 16 campaign was launched in December sionals who provide strategic advice that helps guide our work to 2015, it has enabled 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in local level elec- lower the voting age on the local level. The job of these adults is to tions, such as city boards or commissions and additional offices at watch over the Student Advisory Board that is made up of students the local level. This national campaign has spread all over the Unit- all over the United States who are the main leaders of their local ed States and has been passed in legislature throughout 11 cities. city movement that they either launched or are leading. The Youth “I personally think lowering the voting age is important, especial- Advisory Boards main goal is for student voices in support of the ly in our time. Younger people are becoming more educated and campaign to be heard, and for the national campaign to gain con- should be able to voice their thoughts and opinions. Vote16 would stant momentum. Some students within San Luis Obispo County allow younger people to vote for things locally and things that can have been striving to create a larger campaign in the area. possibly affect them. It’s important that they have a voice and influ- “Within the past four years or so, teenagers have been getting ence,” said senior Zhayle Piurque. more and more involved in politics and have been realizing the Berkeley, California is one of the 11 cities that has held rallies laws and notions that go into effect, can affect themselves more and youth participation to pass the bill. Measure Y1, the legislature than anyone else. With things from gun reform to women’s rights, in support passed with over 70 percent of the vote. Advocates for teens have been more involved than ever. I personally think lower- the campaign in Berkeley were members of the YMCA Youth and ing the voting age to 16 for local elections would encourage people Government Program. They began their advocacy because, as ad- to get involved with politics even at the age of 12 or 13. Along with olescents, they believed that they were still involved in local issues that, I think now that more teenagers are getting involved with pol- and active within the town happenings while gaining the opportu- itics, it can sometimes be frustrating to see something affect you, nity to become a heard active citizen. but not being able to do anything about it. Vote16 would educate “I think that the campaign is incredibly important to the future a wider population of the United States on things that affect them of our country. Voting is vital to the success of a nation, and by personally and gives everyone a way to show their voice,” said ju- nurturing the value of voting at a younger age, we will be a better nior Jayde Malzone. democracy and republic because of it. Many 16 and 17-year-olds Perhaps our new generation may find a way to implicate Vote16 work jobs and pay taxes, and their future is on the line when it into our own local area. This political campaign has enabled stu- comes to elections. If we want a truly representative democracy, dents nationwide to acknowledge their power and strive for their they should be allowed to vote in local elections along with every- own personal political participation. Illustration Courtesy of Gabby Schroeter May 2019 Feature 9 Future Voters Get Pumped! Senior Malia Carinio: I’m excited to vote because I finally have the By Hannah Peterson opportunity to have a say in something beneficial for my future. Senior Jordan Johl: Because I can finally have a voice that has to be The 2020 Presidential election is approaching, and many of San heard by my government representatives. And overall, I think it’s Luis Obispo High School students will be able to participate! Ex- cool to start doing “adult” stuff, I suppose. pressions sat down with current students and future voters on our Senior Janea Huber: I see it as one of the most important rights as campus to see why they’re excited to vote. an American citizen and having a parent that isn’t a citizen makes Expressions: Why are you excited to vote in the 2020 election? me so much more grateful I have that voice. Especially in the last Senior Mallory Etter: Ever since I was little, I wanted to vote. I couple of elections, being able to see the momentum people can guess it’s a good feeling because you’re getting involved in politics. have is inspiring and encouraging to get involved with politics and When you’re younger, you can say your opinions but you can’t ac- to be informed. I’m grateful I live in a country where we have the tually do anything about it. Now I actually get a chance to make a ability to make change and I’m ready to be a part of that. change! Senior Ari King: I’m excited to vote to express my opinions and Senior Clare Dooley: I’m excited to have the young people’s voices participate in government! heard. I think a lot of upcoming politicians speak for what I want Junior Yajaira Cruz: Because I’ll be able to change the country. It to happen. can help make America a better place! Senior John Krill: I’m excited to take all the experiences I’ve had Junior Lauren Ramirez: I’m excited to vote in the 2020 election both inside and outside of school, along with all the information I because I feel like it’s important that people can have their voices have gathered from classes, and apply them as a contributing mem- heard in these elections, and I’m glad I get to show my opinions ber of our great country’s democracy in 2020. on the ballot this time around. I look forward to voting on topics/ Senior Amberly Clark: Voting is a major part of democracy, and people that will change our country and world for the better. I’m I’m excited to have my voice heard! very happy I get to be a part of that in 2020. The Road to the Ballot Box Voting On-Site: By Kayley Rolph Go to your polling place: make sure you bring some sort of Identi- fication (Passport or Driver’s license) and check in with the volun- Unsure how to register to vote? Here’s a quick guide: teers. Obtain a ballot and follow any instructions. Step 1: Register to vote. Don’t worry you can do it online! Fill out the ballot as you wish: then turn it into the appropriate Just visit the California voter registration website (https://register- person or feed it into the machine. tovote.ca.gov/) and fill out the online form. All you need is... Review your Ballot: just go through your answers to make sure Your California driver license or California identification card they are correct just like a test! number, the last four digits of your social security number, and Voting by Mail: your date of birth. Apply to vote by mail: In California, any registered voter may If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can use this online registration vote by mail. Apply at least seven days prior to the election. You can application to pre-register to vote which makes the process once use the application that comes with your sample ballot, or down- you turn 18 that much easier! The deadline to register for any elec- load the application form. tion is 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the 15th calendar day before Fill out the Ballot you recieve: make sure to make clear marks that election. and follow the instructions Step 2: Learn where your polling place is. This is where you will Place the ballot in the envelope provided: The envelope is trace- cast your vote on election day if you chose not to vote by mail. able to you, so keep it with your ballot, and do not trade envelopes There are many polling places in our town so it’s important that with other registered voters in your household. you find yours. You can find this out by putting your home address Sign the envelope: Many ballots get rejected because they aren’t in to this website: https://clerk.slocounty.ca.gov/pollingplace/ . signed. Step 3: Educate yourself on the candidates and the issues that will Mail your ballot at least a week before election day: Remember, be in the ballot. A great way to do this is to get a Sample ballot or a the ballot must be received by the end of election day. Late ballots voter handbook which will be offered online or mailed to you when are rejected. Use sufficient postage on your ballot. Many ballots you register. You can familiarize yourself with the candidates and weigh over one ounce, so they require multiple first-class stamps their policies by watching debates, researching them online, and to mail. Walk into any post office and request help weighing the learning about their candidate platform via their website. envelope if you are unsure of the weight or how much postage to Step 4: Vote! There are a few ways to vote the main two are voting affix. Or you can drop off your ballot at your polling place the day by mail or voting on site which means you fill out the ballot at your of the election before it closes. polling place. 10 Sports Editor: Nina Ramezani Champions Everywhere...But Who Gets a Ring?

By Gabby Schroeter

What an amazing year for the San Luis Obispo High School Athletics Program! SLOHS has over one thousand student-athletes this year; 22 of which are senior student-athletes that will be participating at the collegiate level next year. Additionally, many of our sports teams were extremely successful, with teams becoming State Champions, CIF Champions, and League Champions. The specific achievements of the sports teams include State Champions in D4 varsity girls volleyball, CIF Champions in D2 girls cross country, CIF Runners-Up in D2 boys cross country, CIF Champions in D1 girls soccer, and CIF Runners-Up in D2 boys basketball. SLOHS athletics also earned League Championship titles in girls tennis, girls cross country, boys soccer, and girls soccer. And the school year is not even done yet. The sports taking place in the current spring season, including baseball, softball, swim, and track also have a very good chance of attaining high success with CIF for spring still to be determined.

State Champions and CIF Champions have the option of receiving rings in reward for their success. State Champions receive person- alized rings paid for by the school. CIF Champions also have the option of getting rings but have to personally pay for them. The reason being is that this year alone SLOHS won two CIF Championships and a State title. Expressions interviewed Athletic Director Jeff Brandow and the girls volleyball coach Marci Beddall, to get further insight on the decision making behind the purchasing of championship rings. Expressions also interviewed student-athletes senior Maddie Johnson and junior Dylan Van Rooyen, to understand what it is like to win a CIF Championship and State title.

Expressions: How does it feel to be a CIF Champion in Division 1 for girls soccer?

Senior Varsity Girls Soccer Player Maddie Johnson: It’s amazing to have finally won a CIF Championship and it’s very rewarding after all the time and effort the team put in as a whole throughout the season. I’m so proud of the team and all we accomplished together, it was an unforgettable experience.

Expressions: How does it feel to be a girls varsity volleyball State Champion at SLOHS?

Junior Varsity Girls Volleyball Player Dylan Van Rooyen: I think we’re all happy about it because the program has never won a State Championship before, but also not amazing because it was Division 4, and we didn’t really earn it -- we just got lucky.

Expressions: What is the difference between winning CIF and winning State?

Girls Varsity Volleyball Coach Marci Beddall: I played and coached in the Central Section for several years, which is the section that we now compete in, and winning a CIF Section Championship, known as a “Valley Championship ” is an incredible accomplishment- but it is something that happens often for successful teams in the Central Section as it is smaller than our previous section (Southern). I know hundreds of people who have, not just one but multiple, “Valley Rings”- in contrast to a State Championship in which I only know a few players/coaches who have accomplished that feat, making a State Championship more elusive.

Expressions: What is the main reason why the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team got their State rings paid for by the school and not the Girls Varsity Soccer Team?

Athletic Director Jeff Brandow: This year alone SLOHS won two CIF Championships, and a State title. This coupled with the fact that we have two runners up, and very good chances to win more CIF championships with our Spring sports makes it financially impossible to purchase CIF Championship rings for all the athletes, as this cost would be in the thousands of dollars. We decided to purchase the State Championship rings because winning a State Championship is much rarer. Our goal is to support all of our student-athletes. May 2019 Sports 11 Highlighting Non-School Sport Athletes

By Zoe Maxie

Many students at San Luis Obispo High School play sports that the school doesn’t offer. Athletics play a key role in many students lives, but little attention is paid to the students who play sports that aren’t available at SLOHS. Expressions set out to highlight some of these students and learn more about their sport. “I have been dancing since I was about seven years old and I love it, but it is frustrating when I have to miss school for a show or stay up late doing homework after dance. I have three or more hours of dance almost every day after school,” said sophomore Kate McCarty. From acrobatics to hockey, students play their sports outside of school because the sport isn’t offered at SLOHS. Other sports SLOHS doesn’t offer are gymnastics, fishing, fencing, badminton, surfing, skiing, field hockey, etc.. Students have to do all these sports outside of school in their free time. “I love playing lacrosse because it’s a constant rush of adrenaline. I would absolutely play for the high school team if there was one. I am playing club in hopes for the high school to recognize it as a growing sport and possible start offering it at SLOHS,” said sophomore Chaz Johnson. Some students prefer to practice their sport outside of school to keep away from the stress of high school sports. Others enjoy the intense competition and convenience of practicing during school. Having sports the school doesn’t offer, leaves kids with the option of playing a sport they enjoy without the pressures of high school sports.

The Stress of CIF By Libby Massman

At San Luis Obispo High School, spring sports are coming to a close but CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) is approaching. For most sports continuing onto CIF, it depends on how many games you win, this is not the case for the swim team. Each individual swim- mer has to qualify for CIF, which means that only some of the team gets to experience CIF. This situation can cause a lot of stress among the team. However, the SLOHS girls swim team does not let this affect their performance. “If your goal is to go a certain time then go for that. If your goal is to get to CIF then go for that. But after all, I think we’re all equal and the same on this team which makes us one big family!” says freshman Naya Koc. The way swimmers qualify for CIF is by getting a CIF auto time, which means they have to swim the event under a certain time. Some of the auto times are 100-meter freestyle 57.24 seconds, 100-meter backstroke 1:07.91, and 100-meter breaststroke 1:13.59. All of these times are difficult to hit. Most of our girl’s varsity team has qualified in at least one event; however, this did not come without a lot of hard work and dedication to the sport. Qualifying for CIF is important because it determines which swimmer go onto the state meet. The stress and pressure that is on swim- mers to do well not only throughout the season but during the CIF and state meet can become very overwhelming for many of the swim- mers. Not qualifying for CIF can be devastating for some swimmers as well; however, this not only affects the individual but the whole team as well. The more swimmers who move onto CIF, and state the better it is for the team. In addition in one person on a team is not doing well it affects the whole team environment. Editor: Sawyer 12 Arts & Entertainment McSorley Art School Students: The Future in Expression By Andrew Vander Weele

It has been a dream for many San Luis Obispo high school students to go to college at art schools like; Yale University, the School of Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), and Carnegie Mellon University. SLOHS seniors Ella Livingston and Shaan Carlson have accomplished this dream. These three worked long and hard; won awards, honed their craft, and strived to succeed every step of the way. Expressions interviewed these future entertainers about their amazing accomplishment and their future.

Expressions: What art school will you be is firmly rooted in what you want to do litically, and economically in ways that attending after the school year, and what later in life. It’s more future focused than other industries don’t, and don’t think it is will you be studying while you are there? school based. something that people realize, the intrica- Senior Shaan Carlson: I‘ll be attending the Livingston: Mainly because the school I cies of it. I want to bring that to people’s University of the Arts in London. I will be am going to is super well known for its arts minds and the forefront of their minds, studying fashion and luxury brand man- program. There are many famous alum- and have realize that fashion is not just put- agement, and I will get a bachelor’s and a ni from there that have gone to do great ting on a garment every morning, it affects master’s degree. things. They’re are names that you know much more than that. Senior Ella Livingston: I’m attending the like Jason Derulo, or Jesse Tyler Ferguson Livingston: I love my study because I have American Musical and Dramatic Academy from “Modern Family”, and they are all been doing it high school for the entire (AMDA) arts school in New York, and I’m known for going on and doing great things; four years, so I have grown to love it over going to be studying musical theatre. that’s one of the things I want do with my the years. It lead me to AMDA because Expressions: Why is an art school import- career. I want to do musical theatre and Mrs. Stephens had a poster up on her wall a ant for you to attend, as opposed to anoth- perform on stage. while ago, and said AMDA on it and I was er school with a program for your study? Expressions: Why do you love your study, interested in it, she told me more about it, Carlson: Well for me an arts school is cen- and what lead you to it? I signed up for a newsletter, and they called tered on the arts so you don’t have to do Carlson: I grew up internationally, me a couple years later saying we want you things like math or science; any of the gen- throughout Asia and Europe, and I think to audition. Illustrations courtesy of Joella eral education courses. The course you take that fashion affects the world socially, po- Holmes By Andrew Vander Weele Roper Photo Gallery Photographed by junior Avery Paton

Photographed by freshman Helena Corpuz-Carr May 2019 Arts & Entertainment 13

Photo- graphed by junior Brayden Shannon Photographed by junior Sofia Rivas

Photographed by freshman Savannah Brewer Photographed by junior Andrea Rojas

The Romantizication of Serial Killers By Kaylee Beardsley

Here at San Luis Obispo High School, erally kill without an apparent motive and students have probably seen the trailers for seemingly at random, multiple times...As a the new movie “Extremely Wicked, Shock- general pattern, there’s ingly Evil and Vile”, which focuses on the often times emotional and physical abuse, life of infamous serial killer, Ted Bundy. usually a history of being cruel to animals However, the movie is not the first of it’s or even to people as children, and a lot of kind to focus on the topic of the criminal- them have had a tough childhood for sure, ly insane. Before this, there was “Ameri- which may have made them numb to the can Psycho”, “Bates Motel”, and “Monster”, act of violence,” said chemistry and astron- which all portray the life and killings of an point out that the surge in popularity for omy teacher Ryan Ritchie. insane individual. While these works make this type of show is surprising, since many Serial killers are infamous, and are, in all for great entertainment, it begs the ques- consider the idea of the American serial honesty, awful human beings. tion of where it turns from entertainment killer to be a dying breed. This is mostly “The reason it’s come up recently is be- to romanticizing the killers. because there isn’t the same stigma around cause lately the media has painted serial “I think it’s perfectly normal for society them. Communities no longer lock their killers almost like characters out of a book, to want entertainment based off of things doors in fear of a person’s name, like when making us intrigued by their stories...Peo- they find interesting, and lots of people the Golden State killer, a man who mur- ple are becoming more aware of the messed find serial killing, mass murders, and peo- dered dozens of people in the 1970s, was up stuff that goes on in our world. It’s an in- ple with mental issues interesting. So I can at large. teresting topic; we all wonder what it’s like understand why the entertainment indus- “There are certainly personality profiles to lack empathy and are curious as to what try would want to portray this. However I that kind of go along with it...I don’t know goes through a murderer’s mind. Talking think it becomes an issue when you fail to why, but they have always seemed to kind about these things helps us to better un- show the severity of the of capture the interest of the public because derstand ourselves and the other people situation that the victims experience,” said they’re scary. I would say that generally the around us who also seem to lack basic hu- senior Janea Huber. It’s also important to idea behind a serial killer is that they gen- man decency,” said senior Maya Nitzel. 14 People Editor: Zoey Nitzel SLOHS Students React To Competi- tive College Admissions Process

By Hannah Peterson

The school year is winding down, and it’s an exciting time for San throughout the country, and specifically UC’s, leads to increased Luis Obispo High School seniors who are committing to colleges competitiveness. they’ll attend this fall. Every year, it’s expected more and more for “I applied to 19 [schools], or if I throw in Yale, twenty, and got high school seniors to further their education at universities such accepted by nine,” said senior Suraj Patel. as Universities of California, California State Universities, or other While it is known that admittance to colleges such as Harvard or private colleges. For most individuals, a college degree is not only UCLA is difficult, other supposedly “easier” schools’ acceptance required for a successful career, but often coined as the “new high rates have dropped dramatically. For example, in the last 12 years, school diploma.” UC Irvine’s acceptance rate dropped by 31.2 percent, UC Santa Many full-time positions require the applicant to have a bach- Barbara’s dropped by 19 percent, and San Diego State University elor’s degree, and most jobs that do not will only pay minimum dropped by 43.7 percent. wage. In California, the minimum wage is currently $11 per hour. “Every year, college admissions get drastically more competitive, Minimum wage, combined with the lack of affordable housing in which results in students applying to more schools as a safety mea- this expensive state, is a recipe for extreme poverty, especially in sure. This launches a vicious cycle of increased difficulty of -get SLO County and throughout California. ting admitted, and overqualified students are barely making it into However, the steady increase of college applicants each year their safety schools, if at all,” said senior Clea Wendt. Senior Cormac Jenkins Plans To Serve Our Country

By Torstein Bøyum Kløven

Many students at San Luis Obispo High School struggle with Lance, a decorated Marine and combat veteran. what career to pursue in the future. Senior Cormac Jenkins is tak- Expressions: What are you most excited and least excited for ing a different approach to “life after high school” by deciding to during your experience in the military? dedicate himself to serving our country. Expressions went out to Jenkins: I am most excited for the personal improvement and talk to him about this life path. chance to become well educated in warfare. I’m least excited for nothing. Expressions: When did you make the Expressions: Do you think going into decision to go into the military? the military is better than going to col- Senior Cormac Jenkins: I never pic- lege? tured myself doing anything else. When Jenkins: I actually am going to col- I was young I looked up to the veter- lege, I’m not enlisting. I’m going to ans in my family and enjoyed playing the Virginia Military Institute where I soldier, but as time went on it became will study and train for four years. Af- a reality that I would join the military ter graduation, I will commission as a to fight on behalf of the ideals of the second lieutenant and attend the basic constitution and personal liberties that school of infantry. make our nation the best. Expressions: How long do you see Expressions: What part of the military yourself in the military and what is are you entering and who inspired you Photo Courtesy of Cormac Jenkins your plan? to do so? Jenkins: I’d like to make a lifetime career out of it but if I decide Jenkins: I’m joining the Marine Corp. The man who inspired me otherwise I intend to move into the private military sector. to join the Marines over the other branches would be my uncle May 2019 people 15 What It’s Like To Be a Conservative Teacher On a Liberal Campus

By Katie Cole

San Luis Obispo High School, like most of California, is con- where I live, rather than protest in the streets and cry about it. Fur- sidered liberal. There are a group of republicans, however, hidden ther, there is a larger community of conservatives on this campus within the liberal SLOHS campus. Expressions investigated one of than most people realize. these outsiders, social studies teacher Curt Bartlett, to understand Expressions: Do staff/faculty treat you differently? more about him. Bartlett: As far as the student or staff treatment of me because of my politics, most either do not care or appreciate that I am up front Expressions: As a conservative what are your core beliefs? with my beliefs. It is also an opportunity for students who have Social studies teacher Curt Bartlett: As a conservative, my core conservative views to realize that they are not alone and can find beliefs tend toward a smaller, more local government that is more a refuge or even just a sounding board. This is a good thing as no responsive to the people. The local city council or school board is student should feel like they are in a battle alone. I have only gotten more responsive (or more easily replaced if they do not respond) negative feedback from one staff member, but that is a pretty good to the local people than is the state or federal representatives. I am track record. I have discussed politics with other teachers and find pro-life, pro-second amendment, and pro-originalist reading of that both sides can be reasonable even when they disagree. the Constitution. I think that the Constitution was a strictly an- Expressions: What do you like about being different from every- ti-powerful government document and was strictly meant to tie one else? the hands of the government and never the hands of the people. Bartlett: It is not the idea of being different that I enjoy. It is just Expressions: Do you feel like an outsider in the SLOHS commu- the consistency of my beliefs and what I believe is the “rightness” nity? of my position that I enjoy. I would much prefer to be the same as Bartlett: I do not feel like an outsider at SLOHS, as I think that everyone else if they were just conservatives. even people here who disagree can do so civilly. I do often get frus- Expressions: What is the common ground you are able to find with trated, however, as I do not feel that I have any representation at others on different views? any level of government except for the state assembly. I believe, Bartlett: I think the common ground with others is the desire to though, that if that is a problem for me, I am at liberty to change do what is in the best interest of this country.

“Every political good, carried to the extreme, must be productive of evil,” said United States suffrag- ette Mary Wollstonecraft.

structural engineers ssgse.com est. 1985 supporting SLOTAB & the Arts Editor-In-Chief: Kara Hoover May 2019 Back 16 Teacher Prom Throwback Pictures

By Brooke Larson

As prom season wraps up at San Luis Obispo High School, SLOHS teachers often rem- inisce about their own proms. Expressions: Most memorable prom event? Expressions: How was being prom king at Expressions went Newspaper Adviser and English teacher your school? Scott Nairne: Prom at my school was 85 Head of Art Department Digital Pho- out and asked our dollars so I sold my roller blades to afford tography and TV Video Adviser Zachary my tickets for prom and once I won prom Roper: I was definitely surprised I was teachers about their King I got free pictures. I think prom is a king because i wasn’t the most popu- prom festivities. super weird cultural experience that every- lar but I knew a lot of people and a lot one should experience good or bad. of people from different groups so I was really surprised and happy when I won.

Expressions: Where is your date now? Expressions: What was the most memora- Expressions: What do you remember most Math Teacher Ryan Perez: Senior prom ble part of your prom? about your prom? was the first dance I ever went to because I Counselor Shelly Benson: The most mem- Art Teacher Tawnee Houle: The thing I always had soccer tournaments during our orable part of prom was dressing up and remember most about my senior prom is dances, but I skipped one to go to prom. sharing the night with all of my friends and almost the entire school ending up at in- Funny story about my date, she ended up 30 years later most of us are still in touch n-out for an impromptu after party which marrying one of my bestfriends! and some I get to see everyday! ended up being fun.