JROTC TAKES ON THE CHALLENGE In the fifth annual Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta, MHS’ Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) placed third in the event meant to support combat veterans and their families and build friendly competition and teamwork between the JROTC teams. Photo courtesy of Lt. Col. Timothy Schiller
The students discovered that teamwork would be key if they were to perform well in the challenges.
Tr jan Times M IL
IL A N I H I G H
www.trojantimes.org
Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
Issue 1 Volume XLII
HOSA HEROES CHUN, LOPEZ WIN BIG AT CONFERENCE By Risa Askerooth r.askerooth@trojantimes.org
At the Health Occupation Students of America – Future Health Professionals (HOSA) National Student Leadership Conference (NLC) in Florida, medals weren’t the only awards being swept up by MHS HOSA members. On June 28, HOSA adviser Candace Chun was awarded the Outstanding Service Award for HOSA Secondary Chapter Advisers for Region 1, while alumnus Mart Joshua Lopez was named Region 1 vice president, making him the first national officer from any of Hawaii’s Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO) programs. “It’s all a surprise too. So it’s kind of cool, you know, because we’re just on pins and needles, kind of (waiting to) see if we got it,” said Chun. Lopez added, “The feeling was surreal, it was
summer of sound Howe makes appearance in summer production ‘Les Miserables’ By Lauren Barbour l.barbour@trojantimes.org
9
weird to have the whole Hawaii delegation, and not only the Hawaii delegation, have so many states cheer for you.” The process of applying for the awards was a difficult one, as Chun submitted a resume, essay and letters of support in order to show her accomplishments in HOSA, while Lopez took a test, was interviewed, answered questions from voting delegates and gave a speech. “It’s really time-consuming if you really wanted to make your application stand out and really wanted to make it look nice for everyone that would see it because that would definitely represent you,” Lopez stated. Although Chun was not initially planning to attend the NLC, after she was named a finalist for the award, she was asked to be present on the chance that
3 Offering programs in fields such as music, graphic design and writing, the Interlochen Center for the Arts seems like the place to be for any artist. This past summer, Senior Nicholas Howe got to experience it for himself as he traveled to Traverse
NEWS
HOME WITH HONORS
Photo courtesy of HOSA adviser Candace Chun
After a successful run at the state competition last year, 13 HOSA delegates competed in the HOSA National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Fla.
4
TROJAN LIFE Chun and Lopez have a long history in HOSA; Lopez has been a member for four years, while Chun has been an adviser for nine. Photo courtesy of HOSA adviser Candace Chun
City, Mich. to take part in a seven-week summer program for musical theatre, which included a production of “Les Miserables.” Howe said, “Knowing that I was going to go and do ‘Les Mis,’ which is such a well-known show, with amaz-
Photo courtesy of Senior Nicholas Howe and the Interlochen Center for the Arts
Howe’s favorite part of the show was the set, including a bridge that extended out into the audience.
ing castmates working with the most amazing directors in this magical place is just a dream come true for someone who is so passionate about musical theatre.” After a rigorous audition process, which was conducted via video and consisted of two songs, one monologue, an explanation about why he wanted to attend, as well as what acting meant to him and a one-minute dance audition, Howe was selected to attend the summer camp. “It was about two weeks after I auditioned and I was kind of getting in that mindset that, ‘Well, it’s been two weeks, they probably haven’t accepted me,’” he recounted, “And then I get an email from my mom saying, ‘Oh, well they accepted you like two days after you auditioned. The email just didn’t come through.’ So I literally screamed in the chorus room and ran to my chorus teacher and was like,
10
LIVING THE OKINAWAN LIFE Life in a foreign country provided students with a chance to not only develop their language skills but to form bonds that transcend culture.
2
FEATURE
BACK TO CLASS From athletes to band geeks, this year’s group of new teachers can recall plenty of their own fond high school memories.
5
EDITORIAL
RELIABLE MEDIA With an increasing number of media outlets, we’re often faced with conflicting perspectives but must still attempt to determine the truth for ourselves.
11
NEWS
Trojan Times Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
Aspiring teachers Ambrosecchio, Togami score gold at national FCCLA competition By Harlan Rose h.rose@trojantimes.org
tried to come up with lessons that would be both fun and educational for the fourth After sweeping the state grade students,” AmbrosecFamily Career Consumer chio explained. In addition, Leaders of America (FCCLA) they researched how a lack competition in February, of prior knowledge regarding alumnae Laura Ambrosecchio the CTE pathways affected and Megan Togami competed students in secondary educain the national FCCLA com- tion and how it correlated to petition held in San Antonio, high school dropout rates. Texas from July 6 to 10. After presenting their reAfter devoting much of their sults at the state competition, time to teaching elementary Ambrosecchio and Togami students the six Career and used the advice they received Technical Education (CTE) to make changes to their pathways, both Ambrosecproject in preparation for the chio and Togami took home national competition. “At the the gold with their project, state competition the judges “When I Grow Up.” thought that our problem “The goal for our projand concern needed to be ect was to spread awareness more detailed and clearly about the CTE pathways so stated,” Ambrosecchio said. they would be able to familTogami added, “We took that iarize themselves about the advice to heart. We did more multiple options and find a research and collected more pathway that they are indata to improve the presentaterested (in),” Togami said, tion of our project.” “With this, the students will Ambrosecchio and be able to choose their classes Togami also received advice wisely.” from FCCLA adviser Jamie During their senior year, Ludwig on how to make their both Ambrosecchio and presentation easier for the Togami created lessons and judges to understand. “I was taught fourth graders at able to look at (their presenvarious Mililani elementary tation) and say, ‘Okay, you schools the importance of the maybe need to focus more on CTE pathways. “(Togami) this area, or make sure you and I first brainstormed acelaborate more on this area,’ tivities for the pathways, we because when the judges are
doing it, they don’t have any background information,” Ludwig explained, “They’re just looking at what they presented them.” Even though competing at the national level usually brings more stress, Ambrosecchio and Togami felt more confident than they did at the state level. “Competing at the state level was nervewracking because it was my first time competing in (the FCCLA) competition,” Togami said. Ambrosecchio added, “Nationals was nervewracking as well, but I think that we were more confident in what we were presenting about so that’s why it was a little less stressful than states.” Their hard work paid off, as they were awarded a gold medal after scoring 96.6 out of 100 points on their presentation. “Placing gold at nationals would probably be the best accomplishment of my life. It was an honor to compete against so many other people and to see their projects,” Togami expressed. Ambrosecchio and Togami credited their success to Ludwig and Karla Deguchi, FCCLA co-adviser. “Deguchi spent time during class and after school helping us create our lesson plans and presen-
Photo courtesy of alumna Megan Togami
Alumnae Megan Togami (left) and Laura Ambrosecchio (right) put together educational lessons for fourth graders. One lesson involved having the students build a structure out of newspaper. tation, Ludwig helped us with the finances of the trip and she helped us work on our presentation of our project,” Togami said. Ambrosecchio added, “Ludwig and Deguchi were amazing advisers throughout this whole process and without their
support our project wouldn’t have been a success.” Both Ambrosecchio and Togami will take the knowledge they learned through FCCLA with them to college as they both plan to major in elementary education.
Spreading the aloha, students travel to Okinawa By Jesika Henson j.henson@trojantimes.org
Over the summer, MHS Japanese students were able to experience a whole other way of life as they participated in the Okinawan exchange program from June 7 to 22. Spending those two weeks in Okinawa City, they were able to experience sights and culture not often found here in Hawaii. “Getting the opportunity to go to Okinawa was a oncein-a-lifetime experience,” said Senior Nikki Chinen, “I got to meet my family in Okinawa for the first time and that was a surreal experience.” For two weeks, students stayed with a host family in the Okinawa City area. “They let me into their lives, and I learned so much about every member of the family,” said Junior Caitlin Sakamoto, “It was like I had known them for years and was just catching up.” Chinen recalled, “It was strange at first, adapting to their family’s schedule and being uncom-
fortable to ask for little things like ice in my water. However, after the first few days, I began to open up and become more comfortable with them.” The students found that their proficiency level in Japanese before going on the trip didn’t matter, because they improved along the way. “When I had went on the trip, I had only finished Japanese one,” said Sakamoto, “I was still getting used to saying words and small phrases when I went. But as the days progressed, I slowly learned a ton of new phrases and sayings.” Japanese teacher Lori Tsukamoto added, “There have been students who were in Japanese for only a year who have gone. They have come back with very positive experiences.” Along with using what they knew, the students were able to participate in cultural traditions and learn things they could bring home with them. “I also participated in a traditional tea ceremony and learned how to play the piano
Photo courtesy of Junior Caitlin Sakamoto
MHS Japanese students attend classes at Koza High School in Okinawa City, Okinawa with their host siblings during their two-week stay, enjoying the new experiences that came with it. with (my host sister) Keiko at her piano lessons,” said Chinen, “I also learned different Okinawan phrases and learned how to cook different Okinawan and Japanese (foods).” The significance of the exchange program spans further than just visiting another country. “I’m happy that students are able to use what they have learned and
have the opportunity to learn more about the language and culture while they are actually in Okinawa,” said Tsukamoto, “I think it is good for them to experience a different culture for themselves instead of just reading about it in a textbook or watching it on TV.” Sakamoto added, “I would recommend participation in the program because it’s so amazing and eye-open-
ing, that you’ll never want to leave.” Both Sakamoto and Chinen are hoping to participate in the program again this coming year. Sakamoto is already prepared to go back to Okinawa and Chinen hopes to host another Okinawan student in Hawaii before returning to Okinawa herself.
3
News
Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
Back to school, Duncan pursues second master’s degree after receiving fellowship By Lauren Barbour l.barbour@trojantimes.org
Social Studies teacher Jason Duncan received the James Madison Memorial Fellowship, a prestigious grant of $24,000, allowing him to pursue a second master’s degree teaching American history and government and even after years of teaching, Duncan is eager to continue learning. “I consider myself a lifelong learner,” he said, “I’m just fascinated with studying the principles of the Constitution and I just don’t think there’s any end to learning.” The James Madison Memorial Fellowship is a grant awarded to teachers across the country who’ve displayed their dedication to civic education and constitutional study. They’re also able to participate in a month-long study at Georgetown University in Washington D.C. “It’s considered one of the most prestigious awards in social studies education for teachers to receive,” he said,
“I felt honored to get it.” Co-teacher and Social Studies teacher Asialyn Wong said, “I definitely think he deserves it. He definitely works very hard and like I said, he’s very knowledgable.” Duncan has chosen to pursue his degree through Ashland University, Ohio. “A lot of the James Madison fellows attend this place to pursue their graduate studies because as a teacher working full time, it offers you the flexibility of online and live online learning environments,” he explained. After taking his first graduate course over the summer, he was impressed with the communication achievable, even online. “It was the first time I’ve ever done an online course but the interesting thing about this course was that it was live online so I could interact and see the other students from across the country,” he said. Although having technically been in school for years, for Duncan, the shift from teacher to student has still
been a big one. “I haven’t been in school for formal education myself in over 10 years,” he said, “I had to write a 12-page research paper so I sympathize with all those students who have to write History Day papers.” However, Wong has confidence in him. “He’ll be fine. He’s accomplished a lot of things in his lifetime and this will be a breeze for him,” she said. Nevertheless, he plans to take full advantage of the opportunity that has been presented to him. “I have that passion of just completely always learning new things and transforming the way you see the world. I think entirely differently than when I was 20 years old and the reason I think completely differently is because I’ve studied and I’ve experienced it,” he commented. Simultaneously teaching and studying, Duncan’s dedication to his subject ensures that he’ll fulfill his wish of continuous learning.
Chun and Lopez continued from page 1
she won. Chun then decided to surprise HOSA students by meeting them in Orlando, as it was too late to book the same flight as them. “We totally surprised them (and) I think they were so shocked. And (Lopez) was yelling, ‘I knew it, I knew she was going to be here,’” she said. Winning the awards was a way for HOSA to acknowledge the work Chun and Lopez put into the program. “I’m really happy because I think (Chun) does the most,” said HOSA member alumna Fejiereich Luz Lopez, “She’s been doing it a long time and she pushed me to do the best that I could.” Mart Joshua Lopez added, “Being part of HOSA for the past four years, it’s really inspired me to take up leadership role positions. I was actually part of the state executive council for Hawaii.” Having won the position of Region 1 vice president, Mart Joshua Lopez will give speeches and hold workshops about HOSA around
the United States until the next NLC. “It’s something where we try to inspire a shared vision within all the members throughout the different states and even other countries that we’re starting to expand to,” he said. As both Chun and Mart Joshua Lopez will not be joining next year, winning the awards and seeing the friends they’ve made was a satisfying way to end the year. “You know the feeling. Just like graduation, where you have so many people supporting you and that have been supporting you throughout the way and seeing them cheer for you and be excited for you, that was something that I think I’ll never forget,” said Mart Joshua Lopez. Chun herself is satisfied with the results and memories made at the NLC. “The highlight of my career was (Mart Joshua Lopez) winning nationals,” said Chun. Next year, although Mart Joshua Lopez is heading off to the University of Hawaii and Shirlen Tanaka is taking over as HOSA adviser, Chun will continue to support the program to the best of her ability.
Boehning awarded new position as NHD ambassador after 20 years of dedication By Karen Neill k.neill@trojantimes.org
From Aug. 8 to 15, Social Studies teacher Amy Boehning was in Denver, Colo., accepting recognition for her career-long efforts in expanding National History Day (NHD), receiving $1,000 and a position as a Kenneth E. Behring NHD Ambassador. “I’m excited. I really love the program. I love what History Day does for students,” said Boehning, “It’s not all about the competition, and even with being an ambassador, it’s not about going out and having people compete against one another. It’s about helping teachers teach, to help reach students, to teach writing, to teach critical thinking skills. And that’s what I want to spread.” This new position, established by NHD supporter and philanthropist Kenneth E. Behring, came to be while he was writing his book “The Road to Leadership,” inspiring his program to turn teachers into educational leaders. “What (Behring) wanted to do was he wanted to create teacher leaders,” said Boehning, “So they started this new program award where they selected 30 teachers, some from high school, some from intermedi-
ate and some from elementary school.” Social Studies teacher Amy Perruso added, “Because teachers have a lot on their plate and to introduce a new project or even to attempt to teach their students how to write a historical research paper, for some teachers that’s a daunting task. But she and Mrs. Tong worked together to develop a curriculum that really breaks it down in a way that’s approachable and manageable for students.” Boehning’s 20 years of teaching and lasting dedication to the program has given her the opportunity to meet more students and teachers than thought possible, providing the experience needed for an ambassador. “I have worked with over 2,000 students, and that’s just within my class,” said Boehning, “I’ve worked with other students. I’ve gone to Molokai and worked with those students. I’ve gone to the Big Island and worked with those students. I worked with teachers.” She added, “(It makes me feel) accomplished as a teacher. (Our) goal is to help students learn, and to be able to reach that many students and see what the students have accomplished afterwards, that’s the amazing part.” Hawaii History Day State Coordinator Jane
Photo courtesy of Social Studies teacher Amy Boehning
(L-R): Social Studies teacher Amy Boehning, Kenneth E. Behring, Patricia E. Behring and Executive Director of NHD Dr. Cathy Gorn celebrated the success of this year’s selected ambassadors. Murao explained, “She goes above and beyond to help her students, fellow teachers and our program overall. She is always so generous with her knowledge and classroom materials.” Boehning is thankful for all the support that MHS has provided her with. “I couldn’t do this if it wasn’t for my
fellow social studies teachers,” explained Boehning, “We work together. I can only do so much within my realm, but being with them on campus and working with them to do the fair and to continue this program, what they do allows me to go out and expand and do more.” Although Boehning has
already provided support to many different students, teachers and schools in many different states, her new position as Kenneth E. Behring NHD ambassador will give her the opportunity to reach out to more people than ever while promoting this student competition.
4
NEWS
Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
From Searider to Trojan, Matsuba settles into new position as assistant principal By Ireland Castillo i.castillo@trojantimes.org
From a Waianae Searider to MHS Trojan, Assistant Principal Kevin Matsuba holds high hopes for his first year here at MHS. After the leave of Assistant Principal Sean Takashima, Matsuba was selected to fill the position. “I’m loving it. It’s very different from my previous school. It’s a lot more students, but I’m enjoying it. The staff’s been very courteous and helpful, just trying to get used to the whole new atmosphere and environment,” said Matsuba. Previously, Matsuba served 12 years as vice principal at Waianae High School and with the success of his tenure, MHS’ administration holds high expectations. “When I look for staff members to become a part of Mililani High School, I look for people that are personable, people who are educated, people who are going
to make a positive impact on the campus and I totally believe that Mr. Matsuba is one of those people,” said Principal Fred Murphy, “When we talk about experience we talk about someone who knows the ropes of administration, so we’re not training them at the same time. So he has a whole history of doing the job and being successful.” With the school year just beginning, Matsuba has set goals for himself to accomplish by the end of this year. “I think just one of the immediate goals is just to kind of begin to learn what goes on here. Familiarize myself with the systems, getting to know the students and the faculty,” explained Matsuba. With a whole career as assistant principal ahead of him, Matsuba has decided to dedicate himself to the students here at MHS. “I just want the students to know that once they graduate (they have) options, whether that be going to college or finding a job, maybe some trade
school, military. Whatever it is that (they decide), they are prepared for that,” explained Matsuba. Matsuba was initially nervous to be joining MHS; however, with the help of fellow administrators and teachers, Matsuba fit right in. “They’ve been really good, very friendly, very helpful,” said Matsuba, “You know, new school, new people, new staff, but they’ve been good, they’ve been helpful.” Assistant Principal Andrea Moore added, “He’s basically slipping in seamlessly to co-run the now-sophomore class of 2017. He’s quick, he helped Mr. Petersen with some cases.” In addition, Matsuba has begun to warm up to the unique atmosphere here at MHS. “One of the things that I never saw at a previous school that I see here is that the staff, especially the parents, they’re so willing to help, they’re involved. When I came for Jump Start, when I came for Freshman Orien-
Ireland Castillo | Trojan Times
Before coming to MHS, Assistant Principal Kevin Matsuba previously served as vice principal at Waianae High School. tation, I was amazed at the turnout you know, so that there is support from the parents and there’s support from the staff and that’s a huge thing you don’t see at
every high school,” expressed Matsuba. Matsuba, in addition to the rest of the MHS staff, will work to make this school year better than the last.
Continuing a legacy, four HOSA teams take home honors at national competition
Photo courtesty of HOSA adviser Candace Chun
Prior to the National Leadership Conference, the HOSA team performed well at the state competition in February. The team was awarded 11 gold medals, two silver medals and one bronze medal. Fourteen students moved on to the national competition, but only 13 delegates attended. By Harlan Rose h.rose@trojantimes.org
From June 25 to 28, 13 delegates from MHS’ Health Occupation Students of America - Future Health Professionals (HOSA) chapter competed in the HOSA National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Fla. After spending months preparing for the national competition, the team claimed one gold medal and several top 10 honors, continuing MHS’ legacy of placing in the top 10 at the national level for the ninth year running.
“The elation, the excitement and the competition we felt were multiplied hundredfold,” said alumnus Mason Matsuo, who competed in Health Education, “This year was our last year as high school students and it felt amazing to be back again to represent our school one last time as we competed for national recognition.” In order to prepare for nationals, the delegates took the advice they received from the judges at the state competition to improve their projects. The Biomedical Debate team, which debated the
sufficiency of care for warinjured servicemen, needed to research information on their topic. “For the national conference, we had to have a much wider range of knowledge on the topic. All of our information had to be up-todate as news came about in between the time states and nationals had taken place,” said alumnus Gilbert Caraveo IV, “We tried our best to be even more comfortable with our arguments and memorize specific information, rather than general ideas.” Health Education delegates alumni Fejiereich Luz
Lopez, Chasidee delaCuestaBatara and Matsuo focused their presentation on the detriments of carrying a heavy backpack. “Through thorough research of this topic, we learned that carrying a bag that is too heavy for your body to handle can cause multiple back problems, such as kyphosis or lumbago,” Matsuo explained. Additionally, the teams had to improve on their presentation skills before reaching the national competition. “Our students, because they were with us for so many years, they kind of knew that you have to memorize (your speech) and look at (the judges), use eye contact and just know your topic and be able to tell them about it,” said HOSA adviser Candace Chun, “I told them that they have to do one hundred times better (than states).” Despite the delegates’ continued efforts to perfect their presentations, they found it difficult to overcome the stress and pressure the national competition placed on them. “The stakes at nationals were much higher,” Caraveo expressed, “We were not just representing our school the way we were at states. This time, we felt that we were representing Hawaii and that was much more important to us.” Their efforts paid off in the end, as the Clinical Specialty, Biomedical Debate
and Public Health teams all placed in the top 10 while the Health Education team claimed the gold medal. “When we first heard our names being called, we didn’t believe it. We didn’t move until we saw our names on the screen. We all looked at each other and the only word I can think of to describe what I felt is ‘pride,’” Matsuo said. Caraveo added, “When they called the ninth team and it still wasn’t us, we pretty much lost hope that we made top 10. But when they finally called us, it seemed like the entire Hawaii delegation exploded in cheers. It was awesome to feel like that many people were rooting for us.” In the end, Chun was pleased with the delegates’ performance at the national competition. “I knew, no matter what, I knew (they) did their best. They knew what they had to do, and they started early working on it and practiced. I wasn’t really worried about that at all,” Chun said, “I always tell the kids, ‘You have to really push yourself, you can be among the best, you just really have to work hard for it.’” Now that the 13 HOSA delegates that attended the national competition have graduated, many are choosing to enter health-related majors and plan to eventually pursue careers in the health and medical fields.
Class is in session
“I learned that we have only a few friends and that (you) shouldn’t trust everyone you meet. Some teachers really love what they do and they love teaching others. They’re not just there because they need a job and you can tell if they hate it or not.”
–World Languages teacher Maria Diez Ortega “Don’t procrastinate, because it’ll eventually catch up to you in the long run. It’ll add up and pile, and pile, and pile, and before you know it you’ll be overwhelmed and you won’t know what to do besides curl up in a ball and cry. You gotta make the best of where you are in your point in life or your area in life. ‘Cause, everyone goes through different stuff, so you gotta just make do with what you’ve got and just try to create memories.”
“School is going to, or school life, whatever it is, is going to be what you make it be. That you, you’re in total control of who you become, and that outside influences, meaning other people, situations, teachers, will impact it, but ultimately it’s you who makes the decisions and you who’ll lead your path.”
“One of my favorite memories was during recess me and my friends, well we hung out by the outside stage, and we had just seen the Dashboard Confessionals show and we were singing. And my friend Marcus was playing the guitar and we were singing one of their songs, and the bell had rung so we had to go to class but we stayed and finished singing the song together and then we went on our ways.” –Fine Arts teacher Natalie Frazier “Even though it may seem like school is the finale, I would say that don’t over-stress because once you over-stress, you start failing. I definitely want them to know that school is important but to also take that deep breath and realize that what you do in school you can still fix.” –Language Arts teacher Thomas Russo “I’m the type to believe family always comes first. No matter how much homework you have family always comes first. So whenever I have parents calling their kids in the middle of class, I tell them, ‘Go talk to them outside and tell me what’s going on after class.” –Industrial Arts teacher James Smith
–Fine Arts teacher Kristi Higuchi
Back in school, new teachers reflect on high school experience Story by Lauren Barbour, Design by Timothy Leoncio
W
hether they graduated in 1983 or in 2014, here in Hawaii or as far away as Spain, it appears that there are some things that remain universal for students. Looking back on their high school years, MHS’ newest teachers are able to recall fond memories and favorite classes as well as any current student., with the added weight of a few life lessons and things they want to pass on to their own pupils, ranging from the practical to the existential. “I think humans are insane, like if you think
about what humans make, it’s insane. And it all stems from art. Architecture, cooking, it’s all a form of art and I hope that (my students) appreciate handmade things,” expressed Fine Arts teacher Natalie Frazier, “I hope that my students will learn to recognize the beauty in everything.” Social Studies teacher Joseph Hajiro said, “I would say learn as much as you can. For example, pursue your favorite subject. Find your interest area. Also take opportunities and do well in not only a couple of classes, but all your classes. Just find your passion
and pursue it.” Despite the eclectic group, the teachers’ memories and anecdotes translate to the same things students experience today. Self-professed drama geek and Fine Arts teacher Julia Lopresti said, “(Being in drama club) is my favorite memory because that was my favorite activity outside of the regular academics and we did productions every year and it was an activity that I did with like-minded students and we had a lot of fun doing shows.” Athlete or not, sports events remain a favorite as
well. Industrial Arts teacher Hideki Aoki said, “(My fondest memory would) probably have to be all the four years that I played football and getting to know pretty much everybody in the school and all the activities that we did made school a lot more better.” Math teacher Rachel Minnis also recalled, “My favorite high school memory (is) definitely the football games. I used to go all the time.” However, with the good memories come the bad. Physical Education teacher and former MHS softball player Glenelle Nitta
said, “(My worst memory is) probably when I tore ligaments and tendons in my ankle. So I missed my entire senior year of softball.” All students were freshmen once and even these teachers experienced the insecurity that comes with it. Fine Arts teacher Kristi Higuchi said, “I guess when you’re young like a freshman you’re still trying to find yourself. I didn’t have many friends or people to hang around with. You’re just kind of lost, until you find yourself.” Having gone through that, she would like to support her students.
continued on 6
Industrial Arts
Special Education
Special Education
C/o: 2005 Best Class: Health Worst Class: Trigonometry Favorite High School Memory: Being in Key club
C/o: 1995 Best Class: Woodshop Worst Class: Math Favorite High School Memory: FASC environment
C/o: Classified Best Class: Physical Education Worst Class: Math Favorite High School Memory:Working in auto shop
Fine Arts
Social Studies
C/o: 2007 Best Class: Photography Worst Class: Math Favorite High School Memory: Singing with friends at recess
C/o: 1983 Best Class: Social Studies Worst Class: Math and Science Favorite High School Memory: Sporting events
Ms. Natalie Frazier
Math
Mr. Bruce Gushiken
C/o: 1991 Best Class: Math Worst Class: English Favorite High School Memory: Traveling to mainland with clubs
Ms. Grace Hardy
Ms. Anette Fuller
Mr. Sean Wagner
Mr. James Smith
Special Education
C/o: Classified Best Class: Psychology Worst Class: None Favorite High School Memory: Apple crisps from Radford
Mr. Joseph Hajiro Fine Arts Fine Arts
Ms. Kristi Higuchi C/o: 1986 Best Class: Japanese Worst Class: English Favorite High School Memory: Meeting people through band
Ms. Julia Lopresti
C/o: 1996 Best Class: Drama Worst Class: Physical Science Favorite High School Memory: Productions in drama club
noisses ni si ssalC World Languages
Ms. Maria Diez Ortega
Industrial Arts/P.E.
Language Arts
Mr. Hideki Aoki
Mr. Thomas Russo
C/o: classified Best Class: Math Worst Class: History Favorite High School Memory: Getting an A in philosophy and psychology
C/o: 2009 Best Class: IET Worst Class: English Favorite High School Memory: Playing football
C/o: 2010 Best Class: Math Worst Class: Chemistry Favorite High School Memory: Having pizza with biology teacher
Special Education Math
Ms. Rachel Minnus
Special Education English
Ms. Ashlyn Dickson
Language Arts
Ms. Janine Arisumi
C/o: 2007 Best Class: Theater Arts Worst Class: Science Favorite High School Memory: Winning best actress award
C/o: 2000 Best Class: Religion Worst Class: None Favorite High School Memory: None
C/o: 2009 Best Class: Math Worst Class: Social Studies Favorite High School Memory: Football games
Physical Education
Ms. Glenelle Nitta C/o: 2009 Best Class: Anatomy and Physiology Worst Class: Math Favorite High School Memory: Graduation day
New year, old memories: new teachers think back on high school continued from 5 Higuchi expressed, “(I want to pass on) that I can be intense, but it’s because I care, and I care about them and their development as a person. So, I’m always going to be pushing them to be
the best person they can be.” Ultimately, the teachers all have things beyond classroom knowledge that they would like their students to walk away with. “Don’t jump over people just because they feel one way, and you feel another way. Don’t take anything for granted, that’s for sure, because I learned that after senior year after I
graduated and got my diploma like, ‘Wow, where did my four years go?’ Just gotta relax a little bit too, and don’t strangle yourself with work,” said English teacher Thomas Russo. And, in the end, these teachers have the experience to back up the belief that high school is only the beginning. Math teacher Bruce
Gushiken said, “What I usually tell students is that by the time you reach high school, it feels like you’ve been doing this for a long time. But high school really is just a small fraction of your entire life. So now that you’re in the last few years, you want to make the most of it so that when you do graduate you can look back and not have any regrets
about things you did do or didn’t do in high school.” With these thoughts in mind, the new teachers move forward with the hope of making this school year a memorable one for themselves and students alike.
CHOSEN TROJANS Thursday Sept. 4 2014
7
Trojan Times Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
TROJAN LIFE
SkillsUSA got skills: golden national performance By Timothy Leoncio t.leoncio@trojantimes.org
After going through a preliminary round of competition at the school level and a The countless hours of secondary state level competidedication put in by current tion, Juniors Vanessa Roybal and former MHS students and Joy Sanchez qualified were proudly exhibited at for the national level Promothe National Leadership and tional Bulletin Board, while Skills Conference SkillsUSA alumna Leyna Tamaye comat the Kansas City Convenpeted in the Prepared Speech tion Center in Kansas City, category. “Since there was Mo. The competition was more than three groups that held from June 21 to 27, wanted to enter the compewith several standout perfor- tition (but) one school can mances that procured two only enter three at states, my gold medals and one seventh partner and I had to come up place award. with a preliminary design to “The entire trip to Mispresent to our section advissouri was an amazing learners so they could decide who’s ing experience and very eyegoing to compete,” related opening,” said Senior Mick Sanchez, “Next thing we Marchan, who competed in know we got chosen, then the Internetworking category, went to states and won states placing seventh in the nation, and then nationals.” “It’s helped me flesh out my As the chance to compete goals and determine what was highly selective, each exactly I want to do when my group had to perform exacademic career is over.” tensive preliminary work for The SkillsUSA program their section. “I reread all of offered a wide selection of the Cisco Certified Network categories to participate in, Associate (CCNA) curricufrom Advertising Design, to lum that was covered over my Plumbing, to Firefighting, all past two years of high school, of which had to fall into last CCNA 1 through 4, and year’s theme of “Educated completed some of the more and Skilled to Lead America.” difficult packet tracer simula-
Photo courtesy of Senior Mick Marchan
The conference in Kansas City, Mo. was held from June 21 to 27, although the competition officially started on June 24. tions,” said Marchan, “For the most part, I studied on my own, but Mr. Takemoto, Mr. Hanagami and Mrs. Blue, state director of SkillsUSA, helped me figure out what I needed to focus on and provided me the materials to study.” Perfecting the construction of the national level projects was an essential factor in the preparations as well. Sanchez stated, “We spent time during and after school to get the board completed before states. A few times we stayed until we
could no longer see the sun.” All the while, veteran adviser Graphic Arts teacher Todd Yoshizawa used his 18 years of SkillsUSA experience to personally guide Sanchez and Roybal by giving recommendations and pointers concerning the design of their board. “(I) advised them for competition, states and nationals. (I) supervised construction of (the) project and critiqued presentations,” he said. While the prep-work was challenging, the conference
CONTINUED ON 10
No man left behind, JROTC participates in Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta, paddling for our veterans sense of teamwork because if there’s one person that’s not in sync with everybody else, if that one person is not performing their job, because each seat has a different job, it really slows down the team so we really try to work on working together and being a team who is efficient and effective.” Additionally, this first event provided insight into Photo courtesy of Lt. Col. Timothy Schiller the workings and competiInstead of entering experienced cadets only, JROTC used the event tion of future JROTC events. as an opportunity to gauge the skill of possible future participants. “It really helped me and some of the other people that are By Jacob Balatico those people who are wound- on the competition teams ed and this raises funds for (see) who is going to show j.balatico@trojantimes.org them and they really appreci- up and who works good with On Aug. 16, MHS’ Junior ate it. We enjoyed going out who and the canoe racing is Reserve Officers’ Training there, we had great weather a perfect example because it Corps (JROTC) attended the and (various organizations) really shows who is in sync fifth annual Na Koa Wound- provided all the cadets with with other people and who ed Warrior Canoe Regatta at T-shirts and also with a lunch has a good attitude while Hale Koa and Fort DeRussy and water and stuff like that others don’t have such a good Beach and took third place so it was good to give back attitude and it really helps us in the canoe races. Not only to the community. They gave get ready for the challengdid the event serve as friendly back to us and it was a posiing year ahead,” said Junior competition between many tive experience for everyone.” Darius Usborne. different JROTC teams, it The cadets were put into The JROTC cadets parwas also a way to honor and two teams for the canoe com- ticipate in many challenges support combat veterans and petition, which allowed them similar to the canoe regatta their families. to learn more about working such as the Waianae and Pu“It’s not about winning,” together. Junior David Wilm- nahou Adventure Challenges. said Lt. Col. Timothy Schilarth stated, “With paddling Wilmarth stated, “There’s all ler, “It’s about caring for in general you really get a these different athletic chal-
lenges and if you’re not working as a team, it’s going to be really hard (to get anything done).” The regatta serves as a kind of marking point in which the JROTC cadets see where they stand and assess what they need to work on. “We look at it like a practice kind of, we have an opportunity to go out there,” Schiller said, “You can take a person that has never done it, now they have a little bit of experience and then they do it again later on in the year, that’s how we build it. We had some ninth graders out there with us because those are going to be the leaders in three or four years so that’s why we always got to train the young guys. You can’t just throw all seniors in there. I think that’s why we’ve been so successful in so many competitions. (It’s because) we have a good pick from a lot of different athletes.” Schiller plans to attend next year’s regatta with new cadets to continue to provide support for the soldiers who have been injured doing their duties.
Austin Ajimura
Aloha Trojans! I’d like to humbly welcome you to a new school year! My name is Austin Ajimura, this year’s ASMHS president. I am excited and blessed to be able to serve the student body of MHS. This summer, the ASMHS Executive Board and the class councils planned for the year during their Leadership Training at Camp Mokuleia as well as the 2014 State Student Leadership Conference at UH Manoa. We’re all extremely excited to implement events and activities for you to enjoy! Thank you to all those who attended our first Trojan Jump Start. Nearly 2,000 students were able to take care of necessary paperwork, pick up their ID and textbooks as well as buy some Trojan gear! All selected advisory representatives should report to H-Quad on Sept. 8 during period one for the first Senate meeting of the year. Come support our Lady Trojans at the annual Powderpuff Game on Sept. 5. These ladies have been working hard alongside their coaches from our varsity football team. Homecoming Dance presale tickets are now available in B105. The dance kickstarts the festivities on Sept. 20. Spirit Week will be from Sept. 22 to 26. The parade is that Friday and the big game is on Saturday the 27 against Farrington. As we move forward this year, I hope that you engage in the various student activities that we have to offer. Here’s to a successful year! Let’s “Make It Happen,” Trojans!
10
Trojan Life
Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
Man versus machine: Marching band new show “Uprising” By Makanalani Yamanoha m.yamanoha@trojantimes.org
The MHS Marching Band meets dubstep in this year’s show “Uprising.” Created and thought out by Marching Band Director Derek Kaapana and his board of designers, this year’s show pits machines against the world. “We have new music, new costumes and new students,” said Senior Aimee Gaza, “Our time and effort becomes worthwhile when listening to the end result with the friends we’ve made along the way.” Inspired by society’s current dependence on technology, Kaapana turns the conflict into one where humanity is at the mercy of its own creations. “There is an idea that sometime in the future, the machine will be the dominant force on the earth, so we are creating the machines as superior as us,” explained Kaapana, “We are focusing on the determinations of humanity rebelling against machinery bonds. Each music piece blends techno and
Interlochen continued from page 1
‘I got in!’” Junior Alexandria Ireijo also auditioned for Interlochen’s musical theatre program but was not accepted. “I definitely was disappointed because it is a great program. I mean, I would love to have the opportunity to go there and learn and stuff like that but I knew that if it wasn’t this thing, it would be something else so I tried to look at the bright side of things,” she said. Once at the camp, Howe spent a week attending workshops before auditioning once again, this time for a role in the production of “Les Miserables.” “It was a fun auditioning process, especially because I came a week earlier for the workshops so I got to know the directors and I felt really comfortable auditioning when a lot of people were stressed out of their minds. But after you get to know somebody and they know you, you feel a lot more relaxed,” Howe said. Although he originally auditioned for the role of Thenardier, Howe ended up as the foreman, as well as various ensemble characters, such as Javert’s guard and a wedding guest. “I ended up not getting the role that
suspense to a mood of sorrow and charisma.” “Uprising” will feature four parts, which will include audio overlaps and a dubstep section which is featured in part two. “The story starts as a representation of a time when humans are slaves to the machines. Then the tempo speeds as the humans rebel. Finally, after the fight, the humans win,” said Kaapana. Yet, capturing the emotion and mood of “Uprising” will be a challenge for all, given the varying tempos and moods of each piece. “The tricky part of the whole mix is that most each piece will have its own tempo and rhythm. I think that the best parts of the music is when transition of songs, where some have a more somber tone to them, steadily increase into something dynamic and loud and vice versa,” said Senior Daniel Nakayama. Despite the challenge, Nakayama and fellow members are excited for the change in direction, when compared
I wanted but I did get a substantial role that I ended up loving in the end,” he said, “It was a smaller part but I still had a solo, so in the end I think it was definitely worth the experience.” Howe has also appeared in productions at MHS and other theatres around the island but “Les Miserables” has been one of the most professional pieces he’s worked in. “I do things at Paliku Theatre and yes, those are pretty professional too but this was the closest to Broadway I could imagine getting at this age,” he said. He particularly favored the sets. “We had platforms and smoke machines and ladders and it was one of the most fun sets to play on. So I think the production side of it and the costuming and the lights just made it all the more professional and you could really get into what you were doing onstage,” he said. Aside from benefiting creatively, Howe returned with new maturity. His mother, Therisia Howe, commented, “He came home and humbly said, ‘I have a lot of work to do. I need to get serious and stop messing around.’ He immediately stepped up his performance classes, met with his counselor about college and he seems to take a more mature approach in how he views his future.”
to previous shows. “We are trying for a new age kind of look, the kind that you can find in a science fiction movie. It will match the overall theme, with humans versus machine,” said Nakayama, “March positions are supposed to symbolize a part of the story, (that’s) why we have to be in sync by the time we perform.” However, to reach their goal to be one of the top high school marching bands in the state, comes hard work and dedication. “We practice every summer but this year we’re doing this differently. Because we are incorporating both traditional and (contemporary) means of music, we as a marching band must learn to become synced with both the music and the march itself,” said Gaza, adding, “It will take time and effort, but in the end, it will be fun and the pain and effort would be worth it.” The MHS Marching Band plans to preview “Uprising” on Sept. 5 at this year’s Powderpuff game.
SkillsUSA
continued from page 9 itself was no walk in the park. “The competition was brutal,” said Marchan, “The final section was the Router and Switching Project. This section was two hours long and we had to set up an entire network from scratch after being given its structure.” Sanchez added, “Nationals was fun but it was overwhelming.” Despite the competition’s difficulty, the MHS student participants all walked away as victors. Yoshizawa said, “Very proud of them. (Roybal and Sanchez) were only sophomores and placed best in the nation. That is a very amazing accomplishment considering the total membership of SkillsUSA nationally.” Marchan also expressed his pleasure in experiencing the SkillsUSA program alongside his peers. “Everyone was extremely helpful and kind. Though meeting the other competitors was the best part of the competition, the best part of the entire trip was seeing everyone
from Hawaii so dedicated to doing their best,” he recounted, “It was especially heartwarming to see when it all paid off for (Tamaye), (Roybal) and (Sanchez), who all earned a gold medal in their competitions.” The SkillsUSA competition provided its participants with not only medals and accolades, but also growth and firsthand experience. “This trip is probably the most valuable experience in my academic career and I recommend that anyone who has the opportunity to compete in SkillsUSA try their best to make it to nationals,” said Marchan. Upholding the SkillsUSA ideals, Yoshizawa asserted, “It is a means of which students are given an opportunity to perform their best in technical and leadership areas. It’s an experience they will always remember.” While Sanchez seeks to try her hand at something new and Marchan readies himself for this year’s conference, Yoshizawa continues to teach the next batch of upcoming competition hopefuls, instilling in them the values that will mold them into the leaders of tomorrow.
Photo courtesy of Senior Nicholas Howe
At Interlochen, Howe was joined by students of various ages from all over the country, as well as professional directors and choreographers who worked with them throughout the duration of the production.
At the moment, Nicholas Howe does not plan on auditioning for Interlochen again. “I could audition but my philosophy is that I’ve done Interlochen once, I want to see what else is out there,” he stated, “I want to make more connections in different places so people know me and I know them.” While Nicholas Howe
would like to continue exploring his options, he still recommends the program to anyone thinking of it. “No matter what level you are, that’s not what they’re looking for. They’re looking for potential and if you’re passionate about what you do and you want to be there and you want to learn, then you belong at a place like that,”
he said. Howe’s most recent audition was for the role of Peter Pan at the Paliku Theatre. He also plans on taking part in MHS’ production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as a costume designer and auditioning for “Shrek the Musical” at Diamond Head Theatre.
Trojan Times Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
Trojan Times
Trojan Times is to be the student voice and to publicize events, share in the successes of students, promote the hard work of the faculty and capture the dedication of organizations. Editor-in-Chief Lauren Barbour Managing Editor Ireland Castillo Design Editor Timothy Leoncio Copy Editor Jesika Henson Photography/Video Editor Jacob Balatico Opinions Editor Karen Neill Online Editor Harlan Rose Business Manager Risa Askerooth Community Editor Makanalani Yamanoha Adviser Mr. Christopher Sato Principal Mr. Fred Murphy Steven Chapman Jacelyn Hamamoto Matthew Kawamoto Natalie Koch Misha Lawrence Caitlyn Resurreccion Danielle Smith
monthly production of Mililani High School 95-1200 Meheula Pkwy., Mililani, HI 96789
To voice an opinion or any concerns, feel free to submit a letter to L205 or to lauren.barbour @mililanihs.k12.hi.us. Please type your letter and clearly state your name, grade level and period one class. The Trojan Times reserves the right to edit any letters as they see fit.
EDITORIAL
So much media, so little facts ries and facts to back these theories up. It’s now nearly impossible to find only one All of us are familiar with answer to a question. media. Whether it’s print Ideally and traditionally, or broadcast media or the news medias are meant to internet, we have all come stay as unbiased as possible, into contact with it. There giving the people reading are tons of sites, papers, or listening to the facts the channels and other methods opportunity to create their of receiving information. But own opinions on the world. how much of that informaThis may not seem to be tion is accurate? Why is it the most important thing, important that we are able to but our individual opinions separate the reliable from the shape the opinions of our unreliable? society as a whole, which can Recently, due to our dein turn make major changes pendence on the internet and to the way we live, so where mobile networking within we get our facts and how the last decade, we have they are presented to us is an become able to type nearly extremely important factor. anything into Google and get Take the events following a response. This is fantastic Michael Brown’s death in when you are looking to get Ferguson, Mo. New inforan answer to a math problem mation or coverage of the or find out the meaning of a developing situation has, for poem, but what about when the most part, lead to topics it comes to world news? You either demonizing the local look for articles on global police or justifying their warming and find one site actions by claiming Brown’s telling you we need to act accused theft in some way now, another telling you it elicited multiple gun shots, doesn’t exist, and hundreds including two to the head. more with their own theoThis has left people unsure of
what to make of the situation or wary of which side they should take. Similarly, news stations such as Fox News and MSNBC are publicly known for their apparent bias. President Barack Obama himself has stated on ‘The O’Reilly Factor,’ a show on Fox News hosted by Bill O’Reilly, that O’Reilly and the station are biased and unfair. And yet strangely it is also one of the most watched news stations in America. In fact, Fox has been the number one cable news network for over 12 years straight, beating CNN and MSNBC combined in viewers. It seems as if our tendency of craving entertainment in all aspects of our lives has crept into how we see news as well, and as I doubt that will change, we must at least be aware of it. Be cautious of the abundance of opinions mixed within newspapers, broadcasts, blogs, etc. However, also learn to keep your mind open and take it all in, as really there is no escaping
Letter from the editor
And How Was Your Day By Makanalani Yamanoha
By Karen Neill k.neill@trojantimes.org
By Lauren Barbour l.barbour@trojantimes.org
When I think back on the time I’ve spent in high school so far, I have to stop for a moment because it’s seriously mortifying. And I still have one more year to go. However, despite the secondhand embarrassment my freshman self embodies, despite the unnecessary stress and the regret and the disappointment, I can still say that I’m more or less satisfied with my time here so far and am kind of looking forward to my senior year. It’s not because I’ve managed to attain complete self-confidence. I’m nowhere near close to having my life figured out. The future frightens me. But, over the course of the last three years, I feel like I’ve managed to find a little bit of myself and for me, that’s enough. I may not be juggling four AP classes but I’ve taken the ones that interest me. I may not be in five different clubs, but I’ve found what matters to me. And to the people who have done what I haven’t, who have taken the classes or found the time to dedicate to their respective organizations, congratula-
tions. But to those who are more like me, don’t worry too much. There are different definitions of success and my advice would be to tailor this year to your own. Even if it’s your last year here, or perhaps especially because it is your last, join a club. Find a cause. Devote yourself to something, no matter what that “something” is. Maybe you’re already doing it. Or maybe you have no idea what it could be yet. That’s totally fine. Believe it or not, it’s okay to be confused, unsure, a little lost. I am. We shouldn’t be expected to have those things figured out right away. It’s foolish to expect to know everything, or even most things. Accept that and, alongside the functions and the novels and the French Revolution, try to learn about yourself. Underclassmen, you have so much time to do this. And seniors, it’s never too late to start. It’s been said before but if I were to convey the most important truth I’ve grasped hold of lately, it’s that you are the one person you spend the most time with. It’s worth getting to know ourselves.
it. Don’t base your thoughts and ideas on the first thing you read or hear; continue on to read different perspectives and interpretations of events. You may find there are things you agree with from multiple, contradicting sources. Lastly, but far from least, establish credible sources with reliable information that you can get the facts and truth from. As humans, it is a difficult task to keep emotions out of our work, but there are publications out there that do a better job of it. Whether it is the New York or L.A. Times or the Washington Post, find sources you trust. This way, when people are trying to impose their thoughts on you, you have a base knowledge to stand on and make it easier when determining what to believe. I believe you will find it easier to judge for yourself what is most likely true and build your way up from there to create and shape your own unique stance.
INFORMATION
Trojan Times Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014
C&CC Welcome to a new school year! We look forward to working with the class of 2015 and everyone else who wants information about their post-high school plans. The College and Career Center (C&CC) is open to all students, parents and staff of MHS. Services offered through C&CC include post-high school planning, processing of college applications, information on financial aid and scholarships, coordination of college and military speakers and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and PSAT. General Announcements Keep abreast of weekly information via the C&CC Bulletin, which can be found on Edline. Available scholarships, announcements and upcoming speaker sessions are also published in the C&CC Bulletin. Welcome back, Mrs. Toyota! Mrs. Toyota is a counselor who will be working parttime in C&CC. She will be there on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Career Assistance Ms. Kato is available to help you with occupational/college searches, connect you to a military recruiter and give you scholarship information.
C&CC Appointments Mrs. Yamamoto is available to discuss your college options. It is difficult for her to see every student, so be proactive and come into the office to make an appointment. Everyone is welcome, regardless of grade level. College Speakers All students are welcome to attend our speaker sessions. Last year, 84 schools/speakers visited MHS. If interested, sign up electronically on Edline. Fill out the information in your student planner. On the day of the speaker session, check into your class and have your teacher sign your planner. The teacher has the option of not allowing you to attend and you are responsible for missing work. C&CC will stamp your planner to verify that you attended the session. Refer to page x in your planner for more information. PSAT Testing The PSAT will be administered at MHS for students in grades nine to 11 on Oct. 18 at 7:45 a.m. Registration will be from Sept. 8 through Oct. 1. The cost is $20. Checks should be made payable to Mililani High School. Students must bring their ID and fee to C&CC either before school, after school, recess or lunch. Space is limited. Refunds will not be given so plan accordingly.
ASVAB Testing For grades 10 to 12 only, we will be offering the ASVAB on Oct. 30 at 8:30 a.m. This is a waiver day for students and an excellent assessment tool, even if you don’t plan to join the military. Sign up in C&CC. The next ASVAB we will offer is in April. Announcements for Seniors: English Class Visits Mrs. Yamamoto has completed all of her senior class presentations. Testing information, the college application process and the UH Systems Application Information were presented. If you don’t have an English class or missed the presentation, please stop by C&CC for information. College Planning Please make an appointment to see Mrs. Yamamoto if you have questions or need help, especially if you are applying to mainland colleges. How to Apply to Colleges Applications are available on most colleges’ websites. The college may have an “apply online” option or provide an application that can be downloaded and submitted in the traditional manner. Even if you do apply online, you need to submit some parts of your application in paper form. For example, teacher and/or counselor recommendations, transcripts
and sometimes essays or resumes must be submitted by mail. Application fees may need to be sent by check if not paid through a credit card. SAT/ACT scores may need to be sent directly from the testing agency instead of on your transcript. Complete your applications carefully, fully answer all questions asked, write and edit your essay, submit all documents requested and meet all deadlines. Make sure to keep a copy of all applications sent and the dates they were submitted. Testing for Seniors Sign up immediately! Test dates/sites will close up due to the heavy volume of seniors testing in the fall. Don’t forget our CEEB Code, 120-197. Send your scores directly to your colleges. Keep in mind that MHS does not have the “score choice” option. If we send your test scores with your transcript, we will be sending ALL of your scores. If you are on free or reduced lunch, fee waivers are available for you. See Mrs. Yamamoto for more information. Application Deadlines Except for those with earlier deadlines, most transcript requests or applications should be turned in to C&CC by Dec. 1. Keep track of your application deadlines! All college applications and/or
transcript requests should be turned in to C&CC. We will add your senior schedule and the MHS profile to your application packet. Financial Aid Continue to check either Edline or the scholarship bulletin board for any scholarship announcements. Use FAFSA4caster to get an early estimate of your eligibility for federal student aid and get an early start on the financial aid process. When you decide that you are ready to apply, much of the information you enter in FAFSA4caster will populate the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Go to www. fafsa4caster.ed.gov for more information. FAFSA will be available online starting Jan. 1 at www.fafsa.ed.gov Important Upcoming Dates Oct. 18 – PSAT @ MHS Oct. 30 – ASVAB, 8:30 a.m. (Waiver Day) Nov. 14 – College/Career Fair @ NBC Nov. 18 – Financial Aid Night Dec. 1 – Applications due Dec. 10 – PSAT Interpretation Night Jan. 1 – Financial Aid applications begin – fafsa.ed.gov Jan. 29 – College Planning Night Compiled by College and Career Counselor Denise Yamamoto
Book Club Student Book Club Review “The Raven Boys” by Maggie Stiefvater The extraordinary happens to a girl named Blue. Blue is ordinary. She lives with extraordinary people, psychics to be exact, and she is friends with extraordinary people, the only four boys from a prestigious preparatory school called Aglionby who could actually be cool: Gansey, Adam, Ronan and Noah. First, she sees the spirit of a young (and gorgeous) boy doomed to die within the next year. Second, she meets someone named Gansey, the currently living version of the gorgeous
boy who has been doomed to die. Third, she gets caught up in Gansey’s quest. The quest, of course, being Gansey’s need to find the corpse of Glendower, a Welsh king who has been missing for hundreds of years. Meanwhile, Blue may or may not be falling into a relationship with Adam, the sweet scholarship boy with blue bruises from his dad, Noah may not be real and Ronan befriends a black crow that he names Chainsaw. In addition, everyone is speaking Latin. Including the trees. Compiled by Junior Winifred Gallogly
Teacher Book Club Review “The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty It is so interesting to see how other countries deal with the family drama genre and this Australian entry by best-selling author Liane Moriarty shows us just how similar we are. Weaving together three seemingly unrelated storylines, the reader is introduced to three very different women. First, the oblivious Tess, who thinks her husband and her then frumpy, now fabulous cousin Felicity are just friends. Second is Rachel, whose son (and adored grandson, never mind the daughter-
in-law) are moving to New York. Lastly, Cecilia, the star mother of three daughters (as well as Tupperware-selling queen) that has an amazing husband but can’t help but open the Pandora’s box of a found letter from her husband stating that it should be opened only upon the event of his death. (He’s not dead.) These three women find themselves in the same community and every reader is along for the ride. We even get to hear from Rachel’s long-dead daughter. Part satire, mystery and drama, our club liked this novel. Moriarty now has a new novel out, called ‘Big Little Lies.’ Be careful of the secrets that you
keep; they always come out in the end. Compiled by English teacher Lisa Anne Tsuruda