MARCH NOVEMBER 25, 2014 2, 2012 NOVEMBER 1, 2012
THE JAGROAR!
The Jag -
ROAR This Edition: Disney’s Frozen: Newest animated movie a hit, Page 2 Paws Up Paws Down: What Windham thinks of Challenge Day, Page 4 Assembly Survey Results: School gives opinion on bi-monthly assemblies, Page 7 Teacher Contracts Pass: Residents vote through new agreement, Page 9 The Redesigned SAT: What the change will mean for WHS, Page 12 Styles for Smiles: WHS SMILES club puts on charity fashion show, Page 13 Crisis in Crimea: The situation in Ukraine continues to unravel, Page 14
Photo courtesy of Scott Kukshtel
WINDHAM WINDUP VICTORY WHS Robotics team wins competition: Page 8
Windham Actor’s Guild’s Oliver: A new take on an old classic, Page 15 JagSports: Wrestling, field hockey and more, Page 16
THE JAGROAR
MARCH 25, 2014
Jag Opinion Editorial Dear WHS, Hey jaguars! First off, I’d like to thank our regular readers for your continued feedback and support. We are very appreciative! Also, it is welcomed if anyone in the WHS community wants to share their opinion on anything going on in the school, send in a letter to the editor. It can be sent to either our staff adviser, Ms. Lanzer, at klanzer@windhamhighschool.org or myself at amandra14@windhamhighschool.org. Over the past month, the WHS community welcomed new junior jaguars very warmly. I’m quite proud of WHS for making the transition for Golden Brook students and faculty go very smoothly. While some WHS students were apprehensive over the new addition to our community, most have adapted to the changes and everything is running smoothly. This type of
Photo by Taylor Mendes Ariana Mandra
adaptability shows a lot about the understanding and considerate students and faculty at WHS. Keep it up Windham! -Ariana Mandra, Editor-in-Chief
Disney’s ‘Frozen’ is ‘heartwarming, moving’ By Erin Preble JagRoar Staff What makes “Frozen” so different is that it breaks away from the “typical” Disney movie. While many Disney princesses are quiet, gentle, and outspoken, “Frozen’s” Elsa and Anna demonstrate the opposite of that. They aren’t afraid to step out and show their true colors. It’s truly a movie for all ages. Senior, Aleesha Zandieh, said, “Oh my gosh, I love it! It’s heartwarming, very moving, and who can’t get enough warm hugs from Olaf?” Who wouldn’t want a warm hug from that lovable, goofball of a snowman? If you haven’t had a chance to see it, I recommend shuffling down to the theater to catch “Frozen, A Sing Along” before it bounces off screen or if you have a couple bucks in your pocket get it on DVD.
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Photo courtesy of people.com
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THE JAGROAR
JagRoar Staff Ariana Mandra Editor in Chief
Jillian DiPersio
OPINION
MARCH 25, 2014
What Are Your Favorite Oscar Award-Winning Movies? By Taylor Mendes JagRoar Staff
News Editor
Sophie Samuels Features Editor
Casey Brennan Opinion Editor
My favorite Oscar winning movie was “Frozen!” I enjoyed seeing Disney come out with a really good movie (I wasn't a big fan of their recent ones). I also love Idina Menzel (the voice of Elsa) - she is an amazing actress and vocalist. - Mrs. O’Connell, WHS Social Studies Teacher
Ashley Domogala Activities Editor
Katey Vesta PR Manager
Taylor Mendes Photographer
I like the movie “Gravity” because it is my favorite since the story line is something never before tried and how much effort it took to create. I liked how during the movie there were very suspenseful and thoughtful moments but as well there was also plenty of action. - Nick Taurus, Freshman
Kelsey Federico Sports Editor
Erin Preble Reporter
Casey Ergin
I would pick the movie “Frozen” because I love the choice of music, the plot of the movie, and the characters. I would say that this Disney movie is perfect. - Macy Delaney, Freshman
Reporter
Ms. Katherine Lanzer Staff Advisor
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One of my favorite Oscar winning films is “Gladiator,” directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe. I love many films, but I chose this one because it is so personally inspirational. I've seen it many times, and the characters always give me a glimpse of the full range of humanity, both its worst and its best. The hero is someone who has seen both good and evil, and, though he has been the victim of evil and feels the natural urge of vengeance, his heart leads him to make a decision that is truly beautiful. He knows his decision will bring his own death, yet he makes the sacrifice in order to bring goodness back to the world he cares so much for. - Mr. Naroian, WHS English Teacher
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THE JAGROAR
OPINION
MARCH 25, 2014
Paws Up, Paws Down By Casey Brennan JagRoar Staff
Paws Down: I’ve never heard of it. - Rocco DiPeitro, Grade 9
Paws Up: I’m excited but very nervous because I’ve never done it before. I’m excited about the games and activities but not all the emotions and crying. - Jess Farr, Grade 12
What students think about Challenge Day at WHS
Paws Up: I think its a good experience for individual classes to become closer. - Lindsay Maffei, Grade 12
Paws Up: Challenge Day is a great day that we break down and come together as a school. Its a lot of fun - I’m looking forward to it. - Kayla Joliceour, Grade 12
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Paws Down: I have heard about it, but don’t know much about it. I don’t get the point. - Connor Brennan, Grade 9
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THE JAGROAR
MARCH 25, 2014
Jag News
Photo by Taylor Mendes Third-grade students raise their hands in one of their new classrooms on the first floor.
Cubs Acclimate to the Jungle Third Grade Move is a Success By Casey Ergin JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- A few weeks ago, Windham High School gained a few more Jaguars with the arrival of a few third grade classes. It was a turbulent time not only in the high school, but in the district as well, with concerns flying from every corner about all different aspects of the new situation.
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Students and teachers had to move out of classrooms that, for teachers especially, had gained a lot of sentimental value over the past couple years. Third graders moved up to the “big bad high school,” much to the dismay of the young students’ parents. Lunches were moved and areas of the building were made off limits. The school as a whole struggled to find a foothold briefly as everyone
adjusted to the sudden change, but the Jaguars bounced back better than before, and gained a few cubs from the move. Making the choice to move the third graders was not an easy one to make. “It’s an unfortunate circumstance, period,” said Windham High School principal Ryan Kaplan. “It’s a difficult Continued on Page 6
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Mini-Jags Move In Downstairs Continued from Page 5 situation, and when news of the mold at Golden Brook broke, we sat as a district leadership team- all the principals and vice principals of all the four schools, and the leadership team at the SAU- and we tried to figure out, ‘Where do we go with this?’” He continued to commend the school as a whole, adding that, “It wasn’t an easy transfer for anybody, but the high school accepted it and ran with it and made it work.” The high school has not been the only side to this story faced with an abrupt change. Third grade teacher Deb Finch says, “I think at first we were a little bit anxious about it, thinking that, ‘Boy, we’re moving to a new building, there’s only four elementary classrooms,’ but it was nice moving with my friends, the four other teachers, and everybody
was very welcoming here. They made us feel at home, they opened their doors, they allowed us to eat in their lunchroom, so that’s certainly been very welcoming for all of us.” The technology of the Eno Boards in the classrooms has enriched the classroom experience for the younger students as well, making learning about subjects such as fractions much more interesting, she said.. The proximity to the high school students and facilities also provides the option to allow for the third graders and the high schoolers to combine at times, allowing for opportunities such as different reading, math and even technology groups to come together. Finch said of this, “Often times when I have volunteers in, they’re very comfortable with reading and math and writing, but when I ask them to do computer work it’s a little tougher for them.”
She adds that she hopes to be able to use that technology for things such as digital stories within the classroom. The third grade students making the move have opinions about the changes they’re going through as well, though. The word is out- they love it here! Sophie Miller, a third grader in Mrs. Finch’s class, says, “I think that it’s very interesting to get to know the high school because we’re gonna be coming here when we’re older.” Third grader Erin Miller, also from Mrs. Finch’s class, adds, “I’m sorta like the same with her. I like that we’re gonna come up here later in our life.” That inside look will help with the transition in the future, and give them memories that will fuel confidence when the students next take classes here: six years in the future!
Photo by Taylor Mendes Casey Ergin interviews two of the newest members of JagNation in the third-grade hallway.
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Assembly Survey Results By Ariana Mandra JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. – In midJanuary, students and faculty of WHS were sent an email containing a survey concerning the bi-monthly schoolwide assemblies that have become a topic of debate through the school. According to Principal Ryan Kaplan, the purpose of the frequency of assemblies is to “bring WHS together as a community.” Assemblies make it so WHS can come together in order to share accomplishments as well as make announcements about upcoming events, he said. Also, they highlight vast amount of extracurricular activities and what they are up to, showing students ways they can get involved.
Most people at WHS have an opinion about the assemblies, whether it is positive or negative. Kaplan sent out a survey, looking to improve the assemblies according to what students and faculty believe is right. The survey had questions such as, “Assemblies have become much more streamlined and average class time lost is 6-mins per class per month. Do you feel that too much class time is missed?” A majority of WHS filled out the survey and showed how split opinions are concerning assemblies. As a whole, there was approximately a 50/50 ratio of positive to negative responses about the assemblies. Some of the suggestions students made in order to improve the assemblies through the survey
were to make the assemblies more interactive and possibly have some games included. A common negative comment made through the survey was that the information being announced was too mundane and ordinary. Although 84 percent of the WHS community that filled out the survey felt that not too much class time was being missed, the frequency of the assemblies has still become a topic of debate. Approximately half of the people who filled out the survey believe that assemblies should be less frequent than their current bimonthly schedule. The administration is currently looking into adjusting the assemblies to cater to both WHS students and faculty’s desires in addition to their needs.
Senior Profile: Ashleigh Dorman By Erin Preble JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- Ashleigh Dorman will be attending Southern New Hampshire University to major in fashion merchandising management. She participates in numerous school activities such as Art Club and tennis. Ashleigh also dances in her spare time, mainly focusing in the areas of jazz, ballet and lyric. While at WHS, she has earned numerous awards including the NECAP Testing Improvement Award, the Renaissance Award, as well as the National Society of High School Scholars. Keep up the awesome work, Ashleigh!
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Photo by Ariana Mandra Ashleigh Dorman plans to major in fashion merchandising.
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Robotics Team Wins UNH Event
Photo courtesy of Scott Kukshtel
By Ariana Mandra JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. –On March 6 and 7, the Windham Windup First Robotics team won not only 1st place in the competition at the University of New Hampshire, but also its coveted Chairman’s Award. The Chairman’s Award is given to the team that represents the purpose and goals of FIRST best in addition to being a model for other teams. Adviser Scott Kukshtel also goes on to say that the team is, “extremely proud of this accomplishment, and very grateful to all of our sponsors and supporters who have made it all possible.” It is more common for teams that have been in existence for at least five years to win the Chairman’s Award, showing how much hard work the Windup has put in during their three and a half years of being a team. Concerning the district event at UNH, team member Ben Haavisto says, “Our team played well - everyone worked together and understood their role.” Their win at the UNH event means that they have a bid to the New England Championships in Boston. At the district event, they hope to earn a slot at the FIRST World Championships in St. Louis, Mo. The team is also hoping to be invited to the prestigious Indiana Robotics Invitational in July. Every year the
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teams have a different challenge that is released in January. This year’s challenge for the FIRST teams is called “Aerial Assist.” It involves three robots in alliance to work together against another alliance in order to get an exercise ball into a goal. The difference this year from past years is that the teams truly have to work together, as an alliance, in order to gain points. They must be very strategic in what they do while trying to get goals. Kukshtel adds, “All in all, when all three alliance partners are performing in sync, the game becomes an elegant ballet of machine action and excitement.” By the end of this school year, the team will be losing its 10 graduating seniors, which is almost one third of its entire team. The Windup is currently training its underclassmen to take over the important positions that seniors are in charge of. It has also started a Junior Members program in which Windham Middle School students participate in order to learn about robotics before even getting into high school. They have also been improving both their engineering and business practices, recruiting more mentors and gaining more sponsors. They are actively looking for new members to join robotics, so if interested, contact Scott Kukshtel at skukshtel@windhamhighschool.org.
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Teacher Contracts Pass Windham Residents Vote Through New Agreement By Jillian DiPersio JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- On Tuesday, March 11, the Windham community came together for town voting day and voted through the new teacher contracts. Since the beginning of the school year Windham teachers have been trying to rally voters to pass a teacher contract for the first time since the previous agreement expired in June 2011. For months both the Windham Educators Association and the Windham School Board have been working side by side to
create a solution that would please both sides and benefit the community the most. In December 2013 the two groups finally came together and, after hours of negotiation, were able to compromise and reach a tentative agreement. Now that this measure has been voted through, the teachers in Windham are no longer without a contract. After months of work from all sides, it seems that the Windham community is heartened by the passage of the contracts. Joe Mancinelli, a teacher at Windham High School, is pleased with the outcome of the vote. “It’s fantastic. It’s great to see the community…appreciates what we’ve done for the last four years.” Mary Anderson, Dean of Mathematics at WHS, likewise says she is “ecstatic.” Madelyn Joanis, a junior at Windham High
School and School Board Representative from the high school, demonstrates that much of the student body is also glad to see the contracts have been passed. One of the greatest concerns of the community had previously been that, if the contract were not passed, some of the teachers would not be able to work at Windham High School anymore and would leave. “I think it’s very well deserved,” says Joanis. “The teachers here mean so much to all the students, they mean so much to me.” School Board Member, Michelle Farrell, says, “I am thrilled the teachers’ and instructional assistants’ contracts passed…We are a town who knows the value of our teachers and (instructional aides) and we have a special place in our hearts for our teachers, who have inspired our children and their future.”
So...When is the Last Day of School? By Ariana Mandra JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. – With the weather slowly, but surely getting warmer in Windham, many students are beginning to think about summer. However, there is a small factor that causes summer to be farther and farther away from students: snow days. With the amount of snow days Windham has had during the school year, the last day of school, along with the graduation date, is being pushed back. As of right now, the last day of school is June 20th while the graduation date for seniors is June 13th. According to Mr. Kaplan, the graduation date will be officially locked in on April 1st at the school board meeting. If there are any more days of school cancelled, both the last day of school and graduation dates are subject to change.
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Graphic courtesy of bruceallan.com
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Elk Teens of the Month Four WHS Seniors Receive Award
+ Lomb Honorary Science Award, the Honor Physics Highest Grade Point Average award, and has taken the National Latin Exam Magna Cum Laude for Latin I and By Jillian DiPersio II. His freshman and sophomore JagRoar Staff year he became a black belt in Karate and was part of a Demo WINDHAM, N.H.- Four team that performed at numerous seniors from Windham High community events. His sophomore School, Samantha Broady, year he also participated in Judo Haley Pereira, Brandon Smith, and won third place in two and Joe Forti, have been tournaments, both statewide and chosen as Teenagers of the nationwide. His junior year he Month through a program run was on the WHS wrestling team by the Derry-Salem Elk, Lodge and he spent both his junior and #2226. Each month area high senior year playing on the schools nominate highvarsity football team. Smith will achieving members of their be attending the Georgia senior class to be recognized as Institute of Technology this Teenagers of the Month. upcoming fall. Joe Forti is in Students are chosen based on National Honor Society, Math their accomplishments in Honor Society, and Spanish academics, extra curricular Honor Society. He was on the activities, and community Granite State Challenge Team service. At the end of the year and has been a member of the the Elk Lodge will choose the WHS varsity tennis team for recipients of the Elk Teenager Photo by Jillian DiPersio four years. He is captain of the Elk Teens Samantha Broady, Haley Pereira, of the Year scholarship from WHS soccer team, which he Joe Forti, and Brandon Smith those students named has been involved with for four Teenagers of the Month. years, and he has done indoor Samantha Broady is a high WHS Renaissance Award and the track for three years. Forti was honor roll student, having been Holy Cross Book Award. Her also a National Merit Scholarship awarded the Renaissance Award, freshman year she was the WHS Finalist. the Wesleyan University Book Poetry Out Loud Finalist. She has All these extraordinarily Award, and named a New taken the Maxima Cum Laude accomplished students are eligible Hampshire Scholar and Student of National Latin Exam and received for the Teenager of the Year the Term. She also received the a Gold Medal for the Classical Scholarship, which will be top score on the National Spanish Etymology Exam. She is also a announced in May at the DerryExam for Level 2 at WHS. She founding member of the Smart Salem Elk’s Youth Awards has work experience in sales, Chix Club and is a varsity Banquet. Last year two students merchandising, and commercial cheerleader. She works at were named Elk Teenagers of the art. She has designed the logo for Sophisticakes in Windham and year, one student from Windham Magnum T. Enterprises, LLC. as also dedicates her time to tutoring High School and the other from well as the official T-Shirt for the and volunteering. Salem High School. WHS AP Psychology classes Brandon Smith doubles as both Best of luck, Samantha, Haley, 2012-2013. Throughout her career an Honor student and an athlete. Brandon and Joe in the final at WHS she has been incredibly He has been awarded the Bausch months of senior year and beyond!
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involved, playing on the Varsity tennis team, participating in the Friends of Rachel Club, the Art Club, and the Jaguar Community Alliance. Haley Pereira has also been highly involved all through high school. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Math Honor Society, has received the
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Student Spotlight Isabella Capone receives community service award By Jillian DiPersio JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H- Isabella Capone, a Windham High School sophomore, continually strives to achieve her best and spread her passion for community service. This year her hard work has paid off and she has been awarded the Prudential Presidential Service Award at the local level. For the past two years Isabella has dedicated one month of her summer to community service at Camp Chenoa in Antrim, New Hampshire. The camp is for Girl Scouts, a group Isabella has been affiliated with for the past ten years. She says “It’s really fun because I get to play with the younger kids and help out with the waterfront and in the kitchen and in the office.” She also regularly volunteers at the library. This year Isabella will be working towards her Gold Award. According to girlscouts.org, the Gold Award “represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting.” The award challenges young girls to identify an issue in their communities and find a way to solve it. This project requires a minimum of 80 hours of community service, which is twice the amount the students at Windham High School are required to have achieved by the end of their senior years. For her Gold Award “I’m going to go to the homeless shelter and do crafts with the younger
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Photo by Jillian DiPersio Isabella Capone
children and teach it to the adults,” says Isabella. Isabella says that community service is her passion. She also plays softball and volleyball and is involved in Destination Imagination. In the future she hopes to pursue a career in the sciences. Mrs. Holly Londo, Windham High School’s Extended Learning Opportunity and community service organizer, is proud of the work Isabella has done to win the Prudential Presidential Service Award. “Bella is phenomenal, she does a wonderful job,” says Londo. Londo stresses the importance of community service to a student’s education. She says community service is a superb way to set oneself apart in the college application process. “It’s wonderful if you have high honors
but what else are you involved in? What else do you have a passion for?” Londo says. Beyond impressing colleges, community service adds another level to a student’s education and fosters a person’s intrinsic philanthropic passion. “I think it’s something that sometimes gets so overlooked because…so many students do some wonderful things here and we don’t always know about it…(I’ve been trying to) keep encouraging students to find what it is that they’re passionate about,” says Londo Isabella has found her passion in community service. If you are interested in the Prudential Presidential Service Award, be sure to keep an eye out for emails from Mrs. Londo next September and October with information for next year’s award.
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
The Redesigned SAT What the New SAT Will Mean for WHS By Jillian DiPersio JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- Come spring of 2016, the traditional SAT Windham High School juniors and seniors have come to know will be completely redesigned. The New York Times reports that the College Board announced “its college admission exams do not focus enough on the important academic skills.” Potentially losing ground to the ACT, a more straightforward college entrance exam many students opt to take in lieu of the SAT, the College Board has decided to redesign its test. What will these changes mean for students? Collegeboard.org says that there will now be three sections to the test: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math, and the Essay. The way the exam is scored will also be changed to a 400- to 1600point scale, the Reading and Writing and Math sections each separately based on a 200- to 800point scale with the essay scored separated. In order to make the test more user-friendly and geared toward typical high school curriculum, “the redesigned SAT will focus on relevant words, the meanings of which depend on how they’re used…these are words that students will use throughout their lives—in high school, college, and beyond” says collegeboard.org. This will eliminate the need for
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students to memorize obscure vocabulary that they are unlikely to see in life beyond the SAT. The Essay will be one of the most drastic changes to the test. The new Essay section will be completely optional, though some colleges and districts will likely require it. The question the Essay asks students to answer will also be different: “Students will read a passage and explain how the author builds an argument. They’ll
Photo courtesy of nytimes.com
need to support their claims with evidence from the passage. This task more closely mirrors college writing assignments,” reports collegeboard.org. Some other changes include questions in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section involving real-world problems and questions throughout the test that will ask students to “read and comprehend texts, revise texts to be consistent with data presented in graphics, synthesize information presented through tests and graphics, and solve problems based in science and social science,” says collegeboard.org. Students will also likely see excerpts from America’s Founding Documents
or other far-reaching documents based in human rights. There will be no penalty for wrong answers, encouraging students to try every single problem rather than skip ones they are not sure about. Students will also be able to take the test on computers at some locations. So what do these changes mean for Windham High School? The redesigned test will only affect the school’s current freshman class. The changes are also likely to affect the school’s existing course selection catalogue. Currently a SAT Math Prep course, taught by Kristin Miller, is offered to teach juniors and seniors strategies and tricks about how to tackle the math section of the SAT. Since the new SAT will focus more on what is learned in high school rather than tricking students with complicated wording “the need for prepping might not be as much as what it is now,” says Miller. She, however, believes that in a few years there will still be a need for the SAT Math Prep course, though the way the course is taught will change drastically. “People still need to review the content, but I think the course will probably be a lit different though because it will be more content than strategy based,” she adds. Collegeboard.org says that there will be sample items for each section available on April 16, 2014. For more information about the newly redesigned SAT, visit https://www.collegeboard.org/ delivering-opportunity/sat/ redesign.
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THE JAGROAR
NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Styles for Smiles WHS SMILES Club To Put On Fashion Show By Ashley Domogala JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- The Stylesfor Smiles Fashion Show is the SMILES club’s biggest event, which they begin planning at the start of the year. This year is the fifth year that the SMILES club has co-hosted the show with Team BellaDonna from the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. The past four years of the fashion show have collectively raised over $10,000 for the walk. Models have to raise at least $10 to participate. Danielle
Fischer, junior, said, “It’s fun to model in a fashion show.” She added that models get the chance to pick out their own outfits, which are donated by local stores. On top of that, models also get their hair and makeup done by professional stylists. The show is being held on Saturday, April 12 at 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for one or $15 for two. “Each year we raise a great amount of money that goes directly towards helping people affected by breast cancer. By coming to the show and buying a ticket, your money is used for a very good cause. It's also a great way to see your students, teachers, and community members come together to support the fight against breast cancer,” said Alana
Haggerty, sophomore. Not only will you be raising money for a great cause, but you will also have a chance to win prizes in raffles while having fun at the show itself. Fischer explained, “Everyone will get to see a great show! Also, they should come see all their friends rock the latest trends.” In a newsletter, Mr. Mancinelli, SMILES club advisor, claimed, “This fashion show is so much more meaningful than a typical school event. With each step we take on the runway, we honor all of those who have fought the battle against breast cancer.” To support the SMILES club, Team BellaDonna, and all those fighting against breast cancer, don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Styles and Smiles Fashion Show coming next month.
Bringing Students Together Challenge Day is March 25 By Casey Brennan JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. – On March 25, Windham High School will be holding their 2nd annual Challenge Day. Challenge Day is a day where 50 sophomores and 50 juniors are joined together by an organization that helps students realize the struggles of their peers. The program is based off of the MTV show “If You Really Knew Me,” which was canceled in 2010.
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Although the day is about opening up and showing everyone’s acceptance and love for one another, once you leave the room, you can never speak of what happened in there. It is suppose to be Photo courtesy of mtv.tv a safe Image from the show “If You Really Knew Me” environment where everyone can share It is unclear at this time if whatever he or she wants and Challenge Day will be coming to know that no one will defy his or WHS next year or not, but the her confidence. spots have filled quickly.
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THE JAGROAR
GENERAL NEWS
MARCH 25, 2014
Crisis in Crimea Situation in Ukraine Continues to Unravel By Katey Vesta JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- The ongoing conflict in the Crimean peninsula has been a source of constant tension for the last few weeks. It began in aftermath of the Ukrainian Revolution: an uprising with the purpose of ousting Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and restoring the constitution from 2010. It succeeded, but caused tension in the Crimean peninsula, an area south of Ukraine that is primarily Russian in ethnicity. Pro-Russian forces seized control of Crimea,
Photo courtesy of bbc.com President Obama with Ukraine PM Arseniy Yatsenyuk
saying that their purpose was to protect citizens of Russian descent and to keep peace and order while Ukraine experienced difficulties with their government. Russia has become very involved in the matter after seizing control of Crimea. Russia considers Yanukovych the legitimate
president of Ukraine rather than the new acting president Oleksandr Turchynov, and also states that Yanukovych asked for Russian intervention to maintain peace. Russia has stated that its troops will stay in Crimea until the crisis is resolved. The United States and European Union both consider Russia’s actions to be wrong, and have warned Russia that there may be repercussions. Though no battles have been fought, there have been many protests and uprisings in Ukraine and Crimea. The matter is ongoing and new developments occur frequently; a live feed of events can be found here http://www.rferl.org/contentlive/ live-blog-crisis-in-ukraine/ 25287590.html.
Are You Infected With Senioritis? How to Prevent the Incapacitating Disease By Casey Brennan JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. – Senioritis is an ongoing problem in every high school. At this time, seniors have already heard back from many of the colleges they have applied to, if not all of them. Because they know they will definitely be going to college next year, it becomes harder to be motivated for high school. Follow these steps to avoid senioritis. Plan Ahead and Stay Organized: Planning ahead for all
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of your tests and homework assignments is a great way to make sure everything is done. You might almost be done high school but you still need to send in your full year transcripts, so buckle down! Study with your friends: It will keep you motivated when all of you need to pass. Take breaks (but not for too long) and stay on topic. Don’t Procrastinate: You can always come up with a million excuses of why you should do something before you start your homework. And then when you go
to do it, it’s too late. Just get it done! You’ll be happy that you’re done and it will bring your grade up. Remember, your grades and GPA still matter! Have Fun: It’s your senior year, you’re allowed to have some fun! Just be safe and don’t do anything that can ruin your chances of going to college. The second semester of your senior year is supposed to be the best, so its okay to have a little fun, but don’t let that ruin your chances of getting into college or loosing your scholarships. Even if you’ve already committed, a college can take back its acceptance.
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THE JAGROAR
MARCH 25, 2014
Jag Features A New Take on an Old Classic Windham Actors Guild to Perform Musical ‘Oliver’ By Katey Vesta JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. - Oliver Twist is one of Charles Dickens’ most loved and well-known works, and next month the Windham Actors Guild is putting on a musical production of this famous story. Their adaptation has a unique steampunk design to the costumes and setting, but remains true to the original story. The musical aspect has a strong presence as well. “The music really captures the heart of the story,” says musical director Jordan Ostrowski. “The music is very challenging, obviously it was scored for Broadway actors,” he adds, “and the cast, I think, has truly risen to the occasion; they’ve totally blown me away.” The score sets the scene for the play and actually tells the story more often than not. The director of this production, Debera Lund, has quite the background in entertainment. She worked with several CBS TV shows in the mid 90’s, toured bilingual Shakespeare with the Central Theatre Company of Vietnam, and worked as the casting director on several movies such as Mall Cop, The Hunted, and The Goonies, among other
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One of those students, Lucy Williams, has only positive things to say about the cast, crew, and the production in general. “Everyone’s just got such a great attitude towards it and everyone’s so enthusiastic about the whole process,” she says. The cast has been meeting since January to rehearse and learn the songs, and everyone hopes to wow the audience Photo courtesy of windhamactorsguild.com with their rendition of a classic story. “They [the achievements. She’s excited to be audience] are going to be a little bit working on Oliver, saying “The miffed at the end, I think,” says artistic freedom that the Windham Williams about the story’s plot. Actors Guild has allowed me to She refused to elaborate further, highlight the darker side of Dikens' but guaranteed that the story will story. This is not a fairy tale or a be interesting to say the least. The children's' play. It's full of injustice cast also advises that children 7 or and criminal activity.” She also younger not come, as there is some praised the cast and crew: “The violence in the second and final cast has worked through the act. difficulties of absentia and out of The show is scheduled for sequence scene work. Their trust, performances on Friday, April 4 that the story will come together, and Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m. has been outstanding,” she says. and Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m. at the The cast and crew of this high school. Tickets can be ordered production are comprised in advance at http:// completely of Windham residents, windhamactorsguild.com/. including several WHS students.
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Jag Sports
Photo courtesy Union Leader A photo from the 2012 lacrosse season shows Kayla Breton embracing her teammates after their win against Kearsarge for the state championship title.
Girl’s Lacrosse Jump Up Division Our Lady Jags Go From Division III to Division II in Their 2014 Season By Kelsey Federico JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. -After two successful seasons with two Division III championships under their belt, the girl’s lacrosse team is ready to make their next step up to Division II. In 2012, they had an undefeated season with a perfect record of 17-0, defeating Kearsarge Regional High School in their championship matchup. In 2013,
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the girls had the chance to play against some Division I teams during their regular season, including Pinkerton and Londonderry High School. In their final game, they faced off against Lebanon and defeated them to close a very successful season— their last season as Division III. Now, as they move forward to Division II, the girls remain confident yet humble with how they approach this season. It will be a new playing field for sure, but nothing our Lady Jags can’t handle.
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MARCH 25, 2014
The Men in Tights Win the Fight Photo courtesy of the Union Leader Windham’s Gui Gauthier took first place in the 132 pound weight class at the Division II Wrestling Championships.
Wrestling team victorious all season By Michael DeNuccio JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. - Wrestling is a sport that takes full-on dedication day in and day out and breeds highly disciplined athletes. It isn’t an easy sport by any means, but the Windham High School wrestling team makes it seem easy. How can a brand new school and their wrestling team achieve such greatness based on their backto-back state championships in five years’ time? The answer can only be found within the hard work and dedication of both athletic coaches and athletes at WHS. Not every school can brag
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about such great successes in the small amount of time, but the Windham High School Jaguars Wrestling team can, who came out on top during their Division III State Championship. Senior captain David Crichton and state champion of the Windham Jaguars says, “Being a state champ is perhaps the biggest honor I have received in sports and I couldn’t have done it without my teammates and coaches. Next year’s team will continue the tradition set at Windham, as they are a great group of kids who love to wrestle.” Windham had a whopping 171.5 points beating their opponents Plymouth by 19.5 points, crowning them their third State Championship in only their fifth year of being a wrestling team.
Other than David, many other wrestlers will be given banners for there State Championship successes including, sophomores Sam Cavallaro and Peter Caron, and seniors Gui Gauthier, Kody Folsom, and Devin Marino. Victor Pizzotti, freshmen and newcomer to the wrestling team says, “All these boys worked really hard for this, we put up a good amount of points and dominated from there.” Windham’s wrestling team is already looking forward to next season. Although losing many talented seniors, underclassmen plan to carry on the legacy left at Windham high school. When asked about preparation for next year’s season, senior Tyler Siverhus says, “Wrestling doesn’t start next winter, wrestling starts now.”
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Cheerleading Set to Compete By Guillaume Gauthier JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. -It’s time to pick up the pom poms and cheer for the Windham cheerleaders. The girls are all pumped up for their State competition. Looking to improve from last year’s 3rd place finish, the girls will need to beat Goffstown or Bedford. The girls took 5th for prelims and took 3rd last year at states. They have been competing for the top spot the past few years, switching off between 3rd and 2nd with Goffstown and Bedford. They have been gearing up for the competition since the fall. The girls have had a tough season as many girls were injured throughout the season, but they were all there the Sunday competition. “We took third last year and are looking to do
better this year,” said cheerleader Taylor Colantuone. “We all want to win and feel like we are right there with Bedford and Goffstown.” The girls went on at 11:20 a.m. and amazed the judges. They were one of the last to compete for Division II. The girls scored 89 points which was much better compared to what they had the week before which was a 72. The girls were very close with only being behind by 2.5 points. They still did very well with hitting all their stunts and making very few mistakes. “They looked completely different then the week before. It’s like they had a fire underneath them and wanted to win,” said Tammie Cocciardi. The girls finished their season strong and although they didn’t make it to New England’s, they proved to themselves that they still had and should not be forgotten.
WHS Baseball: New Season, New Coach By Zachary Byers JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H. - Baseball season is right around the corner, and the Windham High School baseball team is coming in loaded with a new head coach and only two missing seniors that graduated last year. This year’s team has a new coach with plenty of experience. Jason Mathews, last year’s assistant coach, is taking over as the new head coach since last year’s head coach, Derek Lee, left Windham and took a position at Pinkerton. Jason Mathews played the game of baseball since he was a toddler up until his college years were over. He coached his son’s teams all through little league then he became the pitching coach of the Windham High team. Jeff Peterson, senior varsity captain who recently committed to play college baseball said, “I have high expectations for the season. With Mathews as head coach, I expect to be championship contenders.” Last year, the WHS varsity team lost in the semifinals by 1 run in the final inning. This year’s team
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looks even better with a strong pitching core and a talented batting lineup. Many players are satisfied with the new head coach. Kevin Anderson, an 11th grade varsity pitcher said, “Coach Mathews has a lot experience from pitching in college and I know he can handle the pitching rotation. I’m excited to start the new season with Mathews in a new coaching position.” The baseball program at Windham High is truly growing with over 40 students already registered to try out. With a record-breaking amount of incoming players, Mathews plans on adding a freshman team to the program. A freshman coach has already been hired. When Jason Mathews was asked about the rising baseball program he said, “I am blessed to be coaching a team as special as this one. The players always come out with a positive attitude and they know what has to be done. I am hoping the qualities of this team will be passed down through generations.” The highly talented, improved Windham High varsity team is a major contender to win it all this year.
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Jag Activities S.M.I.L.E.S.
Photo courtesy of Mr. Mancinelli
‘The more you give, the more you realize how little you really need’ By Ashley Domogala JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- SMILES (Spreading Meaningful Irreplaceable Life Experiences Selflessly) is a club that has been around for seven years. Mr. Mancinelli, original and current advisor, says the club lives by the quote “the more you give, the more you realize how little you really need.” The club followed
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Mr. Mancinelli up to WHS in 2009 when he left the middle school to become a high school teacher. His former students enjoyed performing random acts of kindness and participating in community service. The club was immediately started at WHS due to popular demand and gained Mr. Bryant as a co-advisor. The club has three regular events. The first is the United Way Day of Caring is when the club cleans up
Camp Allen, a summer camp for disabled people in Bedford, NH. SMILES club members head out to the campsite in the fall before the camp closes for the winter. Next, on Janitorial Appreciation Day, club members assist janitors to clean the school after school. Finally, the Styles and Smiles Fashion Show is the club’s Continued on Page 20
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SMILES, cont.
By: Ashley Domogala JagRoar Staff
April 3-‐ Assembly April 12-‐ Styles and Smiles Fashion Show @6:30-‐8pm in WHS auditorium April 17-‐ Assembly April 18-‐ JCA sponsored 80’s and 90’s dress up day April 18-‐ JCA Video Game/ Movie Night @5-‐8pm in G300 April 19-‐ Go Green Fair @9am-‐3pm at WHS
WINDHAM, N.H. - The Equestrian Club is a brand-new club at WHS this year, started by math teacher Ms. Rhoads. She is a horse-lover who wanted to share her passion with students. “It allows for another outlet for people with an interest in horses,” Rhoads said. Rhoads is currently the chair of the Board of Directors for District 3 of the New Hampshire High School Equestrian Teams (NHHSET). Every other Tuesday in room F217, the seven club members meet. Ashley Deisner, the only competing member of the club, actually participates as a member of the Londonderry equestrian team. She will be riding in the three district shows on March 29, April 12, and April 26. The state competition is in May if she qualifies. The competitions include all disciplines, including English, Western, Gymkhana, and Jumping. Good luck, Ashley!
The Go Green Club is looking forward to its biggest event of the year, the Go Green Fair in April. Local businesses set up at the high school and display their earthfriendly products. It could be a great time to look around for something cool. Plan on checking it out on April 19.
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contact Mr. Man or Mr. Bryant
all proceeds go to
breast cancer awareness
Equestrian Club
By Ashley Domogala JagRoar Staff
Go Green Fair
$10 2014
School Calendar
out that club members receive community service hours for participating in club events. Mr. Man said people join “because of the feeling you get by helping others that are less fortunate than you.” It’s no surprise that this club is so popular. Helping the community is a great way to spend your time. You also get to hang out with friends and gain community service hours. The SMILES club is open to everyone. Check it out next year and think about joining it to become a better influence on your community.
In It to End It
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biggest event. Club members pose as models to raise money for the Avon Foundation for Breast Cancer. Also related to this event, the club makes In It To End It t-shirts every year. They are available for $10 in the weeks leading up to the fashion show. There are currently 20 members who meet every Monday. Alana Haggerty, sophomore, joined the club her freshman year after participating in Mr. Boisvert’s version of the club at WMS. “It’s a great way to pay it forward to the community and help out people in need,” she said. She also pointed
MARCH 25, 2014
ACTIVITIES
Photo courtesy of NHHSET.org
The club is looking for a few members to join next year so Windham can have an equestrian team of its own. “You don’t have to know about horses, you just have to have an interest in them,” said Rhoads. The team will be hosting a fundraiser before the end of the year so they can purchase equipment and training time.
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Happy Easter! Spring will come...
eventually
ACTIVITIES
FEBRUARY 18, 2014
The Robotics Team Needs Help Winding up for a Win
Photo courtesy of rd.com
Club Calendar Mondays: 7am: French Honor Society 7am: A Cappella Choir 2:30pm: JagRoar Newspaper Tuesdays: 7am: Musicality 7:15am: Peer Leaders (every 2nd Tue. of month) 2:30pm: SMILES 2:30pm: Yearbook Club 2:30pm: FIRST Robotics Wednesdays: 6:45am: A Cappella Choir 2:20pm: Rap Club 2:30pm: National Honor Society (every 3rd Wed. of month) Thursdays: 7am: Musicality 7:15am: SALT Fridays: 6:45am: A Cappella Choir 7:15am: Book Club 7:15am: Go Green Club 2:20pm: Art Club
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Photo courtesy of Scott Kukshtel Senior Jake Mathews gives a thumbs-up while competing at a robotics competition at the University of New Hampshire
By Cassandra Salafia JagRoar Staff WINDHAM, N.H.- The Windham Windup, FIRST Robotics Competition team 3467, just had a successful district event at UNH. The team’s alliance won the finals for the competition, and the team won the prestigious Chairman’s award. Now, the team wants to bring in the Windham community’s help. As a result of winning the Chairman’s Award, the team is automatically entered in the NE District Championship. From the District Championship, 16 of the highest scoring teams and 4 out of 9 competing Chairman’s winning teams get to move on to the World Competition. The team is eagerly preparing for the World Championship, which is quite expensive. This is where The Windham Windup needs help. The Windham Windup created a fundraising page at http://www.gofundme.com/ windhamwindup. Visit the Go Fund Me page, and tell friends and family about it.The team can use all of the help that it can get, so please donate!
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