The Tiger Print — February 2022 by The Tiger Print

THE TIGER PRINT

YOU DIDN’T HEAR IT FROM US...

BV is no stranger to rumors, privilege, gossip and more. Read on to discover secrets whispered in the hallways or revealed on Instagram accounts in this “Gossip Girl” themed issue.

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Contents NEWS

NEWS

Minority Manipulation Publication editor Kaitlin Green discusses modern racial disparities.

FEATURE

NYC to KC Senior Nemo Zhang compares life in a big city to the suburbs.

ENTERTAINMENT

You Didn’t Hear it From Me Rumors fly at BV. Read on to discover anonymous tips sent in from Tigers about their own rumors.

A look into the new performing arts flex theatre space

FEATURE

OPINION

Coasting Through Staff writer Amy Collins analyzes the wealth of privilege held by BV students.

THE TIGER PRINT editor-in-chief Charlie Trent assistant editor Stephania Kontopanos design editor Ayesha Khan adviser Michelle Huss

publication editors Kaitlin Green Frannie Lamberti Charley Thomas staff writers Regan Byrnes Amy Collins Katelyn Collins Brynn Friesen

“The Tiger Print” is an official publication of Blue Valley High School, an open forum distributed to all students six times a year. This publication may contain controversial material. Kansas law prohibits the suppression of a student publication solely because it may contain controversial matter. Blue Valley Unified School District No. 229 and its board members, officers and employees may disclaim any responsibility for the content of this publication; it is not an expression of school policy. Student authors and editors are solely responsible for the content of this publication.

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Isaac Hudson Harris Jones Sofia Hughes Ava McGuire Harrison Melton Elle Moulder Chanie Rankin Andrew Sharber Rhylan Stern Isabella Vaz Mena Walker

Letters to the editor are encouraged for publication. “The Tiger Print” reserves the right to edit all submissions for both language and content. Letters should be submitted to Room 518, emailed to thetigerprint@gmail.com or mailed to: The Tiger Print Blue Valley High School 6001 W. 159th St. Overland Park, KS 66085

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Sophomore Aliya Siddiqui visits extended family in Pakistan.

OPINION

Staff writer Mena Walker discusses what you wear affects your mood and performance.

rief iews

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3 lue alley

NEW SUBSTITUTE REQUIREMENTS In response to the increasing pandemic-prompted staff shortages, the Kansas Board of Education passed new guidelines for prospective substitutes, stating that they no longer need 60 semester credit hours to fill in for teachers. This rule officially went into effect on Jan. 12, and it will last only until June 1. Now, substitutes must be 18 years old, have a highschool diploma, have a committment from a district for employment, pass a background check, and submit an application to be fully approved for the job. | PHOTO BY CHARLEY THOMAS

SWEETHEART ASSEMBLY On Feb. 5, senior George Xue was crowned king at the sweetheart dance alongside the queen, senior Parker Neal. Xue believes his nomination may be due to his involvement in a wide variety of activities around BV, as they allow him to get to know many different people. “It’s pretty fun to see your classmates going through the whole process of getting introduced to the school,” Xue said. “Overall, [royalty is] just something really cool and a nice way to show the amazing people this school has.” | PHOTO BY CHARLIE TRENT

SHOW CHOIR COMPETITION This March, show choir will travel to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, to compete against other schools from across the country. Junior Sydney Ruder looks forward to exploring the theme parks and believes the choir’s practices, performances and helpful judge critiques have sufficiently prepared them for the exciting experience. “There are a lot of good choirs going,” Ruder said. “We have to bring our A game to the competition.” | PHOTO BY SOFIA HUGHES | WORDS BY CHARLEY THOMAS

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Rumor Has It regan byrnes & harris jones |staff writers Rumors spread like wildfire, always have and always will. But what causes this? People are consistently obsessed with the idea of gossip and knowing secrets about other people they barely know. Philosophy and speech teacher Chris Riffer gives his insight on why people choose to start rumors and why people fixate on them so much. “I think people enjoy news — they are curious. Rumors help feed [that] curiosity: ‘What’s going on with this person?’” Riffer said. “I think that’s a basic primal part of the human brain.” So if rumors are so inherently human and ingrained into our society, then can gossip improve your social status? Riffer believes that not only can it help reputation, but it can inflame self worth as well — even if it’s not positive. “If you’re the subject of gossip, the idea that people are thinking of you is a nice boost to your ego, even if it’s in a negative light,” Riffer said. “There’s a saying out there that even bad attention is attention.” Although teenagers are often grouped in the category of spreading the worst and most hurtful gossip, Riffer said while the gossip might die down as you get older, the rumors never seem to stop.

“I think the nature of the rumor has changed, but it doesn’t ever change [for] people of all ages,” Riffer said. “[I’m] dealing with my 83-year-old mother [who] talks to me about rumors in her retirement [home].” Riffer said priorities shift over time as world views evolve and as people age. Rumor spreading is a constant no matter the age. Though miraculously, some people are able to steer clear of any drama or rumors better than others “It just depends on where they’re getting their satisfaction of their curiosity,” Riffer said. “If they’re fulfilling their curiosity in other areas rather than what other people are doing then they’re probably not as susceptible as you.” While not all rumor-spreading starts maliciously, it often grows and becomes that way as the rumor gets out of control. Individuals often don’t think about long-term repercussions in these situations, and before they know it, what started small is much bigger than previously imagined. “I think the number-one thing you should always do is approach any information — gossip, rumors, news — with a certain level of skepticism,” Riffer said. “That doesn’t mean you should be skeptical and not believe anything, but it does mean you should [research] stuff that doesn’t ring inherently true inside you.”

Teacher expands upon why people spread rumors

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THE GAP Racial wealth disparities prevent minorities from achieving economic success kaitlin green |publication editor

hough it may not be observed on a regular basis by students in Johnson County, there is a disparity between the wealth accumulated by white versus black Americans. The racial wealth gap as it is experienced today stems from centuries of discrimination after the era of slavery. Jim Crow laws imposed in Southern states ensured that while African Americans were deemed free, they could not gain or pass on wealth. This effectively caused discrimination in sectors such as housing and education, grouping white and black citizens into separate communities. Consequently, the practice of redlining throughout the 1930s labeled neighborhoods predominantly filled with racial minorities as “dangerous” for potential investors. Though it was outlawed in 1968 with the Fair Housing Act, its effects live on in communities that continue to suffer from poverty because of the circumstances of their formations. Essentially, up until the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, segregation was so deeply rooted in society that closing the wealth gap was virtually impossible. The struggles, in return, continue in trends seen in modern day society. According to a 2019 survey of consumer finances by the Federal Reserve, “White families have the highest level of both median and mean family wealth: $188,220 and $983,400, respectively.” Comparatively, the source also cites that “Black families’ median and mean wealth is less than 15% than that of White families, at $24,100 and $142,500, respectively.”

This wealth gap is made even more evident when assessing absolute income mobility, which analyzes the fraction of children who are able to make more money than their parents did, essentially determining the following generation’s success. Information published in a research article on Science.org found the rate of absolute income mobility had declined from 90% of children born in 1940 to only 50% of children born in 1980. Though a pattern for this trend could not be determined, the cause for this decline was attributed to the fact that Gross Domestic Product rates are distributed unfairly across earners, making the wealth gap even more prominent. This claim can also be supported by information published by the Economic Policy Institute that states from 1979-2017 wages for the top 0.1% of earners saw 157.3% growth, while the bottom 90% of earners only saw 22.2% growth, which contributes to widening the distribution of wealth. The racial wealth gap in the United States is an ongoing issue that stems from several facets of society — unlike promises made by the American Dream, minorities do in fact make less money than their white counterparts and experience more difficulty in accumulating wealth over time. Though the situation is bleak, there are steps that can be taken to narrow the gap. While many solutions involve a reassessment of taxes on income or wealth, the goal ultimately becomes ensuring children who come from low-income families receive equitable resources and opportunities to achieve future economic success.

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Steps to Success

Senior outlines path to college acceptance at selective school charley thomas |publication editor After his friend, a current college student, got him interested, senior Will Creamer knew he wanted to attend Duke University. However, the journey to his acceptance did not always consist of the Duke 2026 copious and often excessive amounts of academic rigor through which many other applicants of selective institutions put themselves. “Freshman and sophomore year, I focused on trying to develop a good base of friends and trying to get into some extracurriculars that I was interested in,” Creamer said. “I built a foundation with some teachers that I’m really close with and got interested in sports I still do today. I wasn’t super focused on taking a bunch of AP classes — I actually didn’t take any AP classes until junior year.” Though Creamer had to meet high academic standards to put himself in contention for a spot at Duke, he believes admissions officers look for much more than numbers on a page. “I think a lot of people give up a social life when they’re shooting to go to a top-10 or top-20 university, but I think that’s the opposite of what a person needs to do,” he said. “These colleges are really looking for students who they think can contribute to their student community. Once you get to a certain test score and GPA, you pass their threshold, and you can be looked at. But if you’re just a school robot or you can’t really show your personality, I think that lowers your chances to get in.”

As a soon-to-be first-generation college student, Creamer didn’t know much about the details of the application process, but starting to research and organize early proved to be a sound investment. “I took about a year to write my essays because I knew Duke was where I really wanted to go to school,” he said. “It was my number-one, and I knew that these top schools really like to see unique essays that can tell them a story, so I spent nine months chiseling mine and sculpting them to perfection. Being able to get my ideas out onto paper nine months ahead of time really allowed me to get the bad ones out and only submit the good ideas.” His creative writing topic, Creamer expressed, was likely one of the key factors that led to his success as an applicant. “I wrote about being a passenger on three different vehicles in my life and how I used ‘riding shotgun’ in order to connect with the people I care about most and advance myself as a person,” he said. “I talked about all the memories I have ‘riding shotgun’ and the super valuable lessons it taught me.” In addition to his primary essay, Creamer submitted responses to all three of the optional prompts — one of which was centered

around his experience as an LGBTQ+ individual. “I made it a metaphor and talked about how homophobia was like a monster under my bed for 15 years, and then finally in freshman year, I banished the monster,” he said. “I also talked about how it taught me to lead into every conversation I have with understanding and empathy. It taught me that I want to be an advocate for other people who still have to evict their monsters.” Along with the basic set of universal qualifications for selective schools, each university looks for specific traits that lend themselves to success at that particular institution. “Places like Duke are really big into athletics, showing you have a school spirit and showing you really like to belong to a community,” Creamer said. “They also really enjoy students who are able to bring a different perspective, who are from different backgrounds or who have different experiences.” As he looks forward to beginning his college career this fall with majors or minors in biology and business, Creamer reflects on the long, yet worthwhile steps to admission as a whole. “There’s a lot of luck involved, and there’s a lot of randomness in it, but I think the process is not coincidental and that people get in where they’re supposed to go,” he said. “You are able to put so much of yourself into your college application so those prestigious universities can really see you as a person.”

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U ST BV DE

NT SS HA RE

WH A RATED T IT’S LIKE TO OWN A TOPVE

80%

of BVHS students have a luxury car

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[The car] is

chanie rankin|staff writer While the students here at Blue Valley may not be riding around the Upper East Side, these rides aren’t cheap. From Teslas to Range Rovers, BV has got it all. Junior Evan Myers and sophomore Kenzie Campbell know what it’s like to ride in one of these luxury vehicles first hand. Myers owns a Blue Model 3 Tesla that he got for his 16th birthday last September. “I didn’t tell them I wanted a Tesla — we just have Teslas throughout the family,” he said. “They just surprised me with it.” This vehicle isn’t a regular car; it has all kinds of special features and nifty tricks that make it worth the price tag. “I can accelerate pretty fast, so I don’t really lose any races with my friends,” Myers said. “I like going fast, and it’s good for that.” Other cool features include a glass roof, a front trunk, self-driving mode and keyless entry. Campbell’s Range Rover also comes with its own set of cool features including heated seats, touch screen and a heated steering wheel. “It’s really good on snow and ice,” Campbell said. Although it isn’t the car Campbell initially wanted, she couldn’t be happier with her Range Rover. “I got it last January — I wanted a Jeep, but my dad

photo by Kenzie Campbell

found it for a really good price so we just went ahead really cool but and got it,” she said. “It’s I do get made really cool though.” Although Campbell loves fun of a lot for her car, it does grab some it because it’s attention from her peers. “[The car] is really cool nice, but I do get made fun of a lot for it because it’s nice,” Kenzie Campbell said. “To my Campbell, friends’ family, I’m known as 10 ‘the girl with the Range’ and it’s really embarrassing.” Myers has also got some extra recognition for owning such a prestigious vehicle. “You do get a lot of people saying things like, ‘Oh, can I ride in your car?’[or] ‘Can I test drive it?’” Myers said. “So after a while, it gets kind of annoying when a lot of people say stuff like that, but I’m used to it now.” Despite the fact that owning these luxury vehicles at such a young age can cause some controversy, both Myers and Campbell vocalized they are very thankful to have the cars they have been given. “Even though I get made fun of for it, it’s a really cool car,” Campbell said. “I like having it.”

photo by Evan Myers

Lavish Lifestyle

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senior’s traveling passion Corfu for a week, and we did some touristy stuff like see cool museums and old Some people’s hobbies are knitting or castles. We worked in an playing badminton, but why have a boring orphanage and did a hobby when you can have an interesting beach cleanup. Italy one like senior Kate Levinson? Levinson was my favorite, we spends her breaks from school lounging in saw the Amalfi Coast, Hawaii or adventuring through Europe. Levinson has been exploring through an Rome and Florence.” After applying organization, Teen Tours, that specializes to colleges and in letting young adults experience different getting through the countries. first semester of her “I have been anywhere from 15 to 25 senior year, Levinson places,” Levinson said. “You sign up and was lucky enough it’s a group of high schoolers and three to escape to Maui leaders, and you select a trip of what area this past winter of the world you break. want to travel. I “I was really plan on going on excited to be another one this in the sun and summer.” She first went [Traveling has] get a nice tan,” Levinson said. “I to London and shaped a lot was there for a while last year, so I was Paris with her to see some of the staff that’s grandparents, but of my opinions excited still there and hang out.” as she got older, the Levinson is very grateful for her Teen Tours took her and the way traveling experiences and her new to Spain, Greece I see other perspectives outside and Italy. “We went to people and the of the JOCO bubble. “Things here can be very Madrid, Barcelona world itself. closed off and one-sided,” and Malaga, and Levinson said. “Since my parents then we did a few kate have allowed me to travel since day trips to little levinson such a young age, it’s shaped a lot towns around those 12 of my opinions and the way I see areas,” Levinson other people and the world itself.” said. “We went to frannie lamberti|publication editor

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photos submitted by kate levinson

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BIG APPLE BOUND Student strives to live in a major city regan byrnes |staff writer Glittering lights, bustling traffic and crowded streets. To many this would seem overwhelming and undesirable, but to junior Estella Bahan this is something she has been dreaming about since she was little. Bahan is very passionate about living in either New York City or in Chicago, but strives to live in any big city, as long as it’s full of exciting new people and cultures that will give her an experience like no other. “There are a lot of different things you could experience in a larger city — it’s really a giant melting pot of a bunch of cultures and experiences from other people,” Bahan said. “I feel like all the people create a very interesting culture and [there are] a lot of interesting opportunities for careers.” Bahan hopes to gain more understanding of herself by living in an urban environment, challenging herself to see if she is able to take everything a big city offers. “I feel like it’s a good lesson because you can either handle it or you can’t,” Bahan said. “I want to know which one of those people I am.” She is concerned she wouldn’t be able to live in a big city her entire life due to the amount of stress it would cause. “I think I could for a few years,” Bahan said. “I’d probably move out of the city when I’m super old, withered [and] can’t commute.”

LOUIS VUITTON GU-

CHANEL

Although Bahan has the aspiration to live in a major city, she is concerned about the downsides it may bring. “The cost of living and commuting would probably be the biggest disadvantage — also higher crime rates, but that’s just because there’s more people,” Bahan said. Though there may be consequences to living in a major city, Bahan is mostly excited about living in a small studio apartment and living out her aesthetic and ideal lifestyle. “I really like Victorian style architecture and interior design — I think it’s so cool, [and I ] like vibrant colors,” Bahan said. “I’m not a fan of minimalism at all — like, at all.” Bahan is striving to have a vintage aesthetic in her apartment, and hopefully have some plants in her home as well. “[I] like lots of antique-looking furniture [and] rich colors.” Bahan said. “[I want] a couple plants here and there, [and] Victorian lampshades [that] are very detailed and ornate and they have like this ghostly energy to them that I really enjoy.” Though Bahan already enjoys the overall aspect of city life and the aesthetic that goes along with it, she is mostly excited to meet a variety of new people with different backgrounds. “I feel like with more people living in the city, there’s more chances for you to meet someone that you could really enjoy being friends with or climbing a career ladder, which is just another opportunity that comes with living in a major city,” Bahan said. “Also, there is a certain culture to bigger areas because there’s just so many people who bring their own stuff to the table, their own culture, their own celebrations, their own traditions.” Bahan is excited for what the future might bring her and believes it’s a common dream among people to want to experience or explore something new in their lifetime. “I feel like it’s a thing that everyone wants to do because there’s just more there,” Bahan said. “People think being in a city is an escape from a smaller area where they’re from, where not a lot happens, and I feel like there’s just a lot more of a draw there than to a small town.”

KCMOFinds! Real Estate in KCMO - Mozilla Firefox

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aving more than one house has become an increasingly popular investment for families across the nation, specifically the purchase of lake houses. Senior Kegan McMasters has more than just a lake house — his family owns five houses across Kansas and Missouri. “[We have] one here in Overland Park, one in Emporia, Kansas, and three in Stockton, Missouri,” McMasters said. The different houses hold specific values to suit the family’s various needs. “We have the house here — that’s just where we live — and then we have the house in Emporia,” McMasters said. “Both my brothers live there because they both go to Emporia State.” Along with these primarily utilized houses, they have three others used for other reasons. “We have a lake house in Stockton. We have a house on a farm, which my uncle and cousins rent out and put their cattle there,” McMasters said. “We have another house down there with a farm but there’s no animals on it or anything right now — that’s [what] we use for big Christmas family stuff because it’s the biggest.” McMasters’s family acquired each house for a different purpose. “The houses here and in Emporia are lived in full time so we need the two; the lake house we have because my

parents both grew up on that lake — it’s in the town that they both grew up in — so they’ve always wanted a house there,” McMasters said. “Our two farms we have — one my parents plan to live [in] when they retire and I graduate, and the other one’s for the land on it.” Over the years, the roster of residences has become a continuously growing investment. “Our main house here we got in 2008. Our lake house we bought in 2010, Emporia we bought in 2018, and then the house we have cattle on was bought in 2017,” McMasters said. “The other farm has been our family’s that’s been passed down.” Like any house, McMasters made unforgettable memories at these homes. “[My] most interesting one from the lake house was when we first bought it,” McMasters said. “We were remodeling and I was upstairs and there was a hole in the ground from where a vent had been and I had stepped through it and fell through. I fell onto the first floor and cut my back and we had to fix the ceiling because I kicked out the panels from the ceiling.” McMasters is grateful for the opportunities he has with these houses. “Sometimes I wonder why it’s necessary, but having them gives us a lot of options for places to go, things to do and places to hang out,” McMasters said. “It’s nice to get away from the typical JOCO life and change it up.”

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Students describe their other houses brynn friesen |staff writer

hile she doesn’t have five houses, sophomore Ava Wadman does have a lake house at the Lake of the Ozarks. “We spend a lot of time with family and friends,” Wadman said. “We tube on the lake, we go out on boat rides and we ride jet skis.” The house has been in the family for as long as Wadman can remember. “My parents bought it with one of my uncles when my oldest cousin was first born,” Wadman said. “From then on, we’ve just grown up going there.” ava Along with her wadman relatives, Wadman brings friends to her lake house. 10 “My aunt, my uncle, my mom and my dad go; my brother usually brings a couple friends — he brings Michael Allen, Jack Cecil and Ben Marshall,” she said. “I’ll bring Lexis Hampton, Lauren Russell or just some of my closer friends.” In addition to a few holidays, her family works around their busy schedules to go down whenever they have the chance. “Typically it’s whenever I’m off of

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dance and whenever my brother doesn’t have football workouts,” she said. “It’ll be easier this year because he’s going to be done with football. Usually we go on Fourth of July, Memorial Day weekend, Labor Day weekend and whenever we have a free weekend. We usually go Friday through Monday or Tuesday.” Wadman’s parents purchased the house so she and her brother could have somewhere exciting to go as they grew up. For Wadman, the house especially provided a fun experience during the time COVID hit. “My favorite memory is Fourth of July in 2020,” Wadman said. “Everything was so crazy. When we were able to have a break and bring friends down, it was nice because it’s also my brother’s birthday.” With all that she is involved in, Wadman sees the lake house as a chance to get away from an occupied lifestyle for a weekend. “My favorite thing about it is having a break from how busy we are up here,” Wadman said. “Usually when we’re up here, it’s like go, go, go all the time. It’s super relaxing down there because we can spend time in the water. It’s a lot nicer than being super busy.”

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When we were able to have a break and bring friends down, it was nice.

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ossip Girl left its legacy on viewers in more ways than one — the catchy tunes associated with some of its most iconic scenes are often remembered by viewers. One of BV’s very own math teachers, Jill Robbins, hopes to leave the same memorable touch on her students as she melodizes their work time. “I got the idea years ago from Mr. Kennedy,” she said. “I was in his room for some reason, and I thought, ‘Background music — that’s a good idea, I should try that.’ Then I just started doing that.” Robbins finds that music tends to make her classroom a more comfortable learning environment. nc e “I’d like to think that for a lot of kids, it’s a nice backTe ac he r sh ar es he r ex pe rie om ro ss ground so you’re not just hearing everybody’s paper ruscla e th in sic mu pl ay in g tle,” she said. “I think kids are less embarrassed to ask a question when they think there’s enough background noise that people aren’t going to hear them ask it — menu especially when we have people in masks and it’s so hard to hear anyway.” In addition to easing awkward silence and lifting spirits, it has brought about unexpected connections with students. “The thing I think is interesting is that the ‘80s is when I was in high school and college, and a lot of the kids know those songs,” Robbins said. “I have to assume that some of their parents are probably playing them at home, too.” The upbeat melodies tend to be favored by most students — however, the difficulty comes with varying music tastes. “I try to get a little bit of everything,” Robbins said. “Sometimes it’s hard to make sure what you’re playing is appropriate for school, so I’d be careful about that, but I have a lot of ‘80s, early ‘90s stuff [and some] country.” Despite minor adversity, Robbins has found more of a positive outurn from students than the latter. “I hope if it really bothers kids that they would let me know and I would try to find a happy medium,” she said. “Overwhelmingly, most kids have said they enjoy it. I’ve gotten requests for some other playlists, some of which I’m not comfortable playing in class, but I try to get a mix. I have it shuffle, and I try to make it a little more upbeat or cheery.” She realizes music may not be practical for all classroom types but encourages others to give it a try if they can. “I know it’s not always [ideal] — if you are taking a test or if you’re having a discussion, it’s hard to have music in the background — if you’re doing a lab, as the teacher, you have to talk above everybody to make sure that everybody hears all the safety warnings,” Robbins said. “I think it’s a fun thing to do every now and then — it’s a changeup.”

P la y li s ts

MATH TIME MELODIES

BV FAV OR IT ES M IX 80 s & 90 s TH RO W BA CK

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QUEEN OF TRADITIONS Senior shares differences between two schools mena walker |staff writer School culture provides a supportive, encouraging, positive, and challenging environment for both students and staff. Senior Nemo Zhang uses her experience in both BV and her previous school in New York to comment on the differing traditions. “The school I attended was called J.H.S 074 Nathaniel Hawthorne,” Zhang said. “In the beginning, I barely had any friends but there were a lot more Asian kids who had similar backgrounds like mine.” With most school practices being either singing or musicrelated, Zhang shares how BV traditions are related to her school in New York. “[At my old school we did] yearly musicals, which is a tradition that brings us together — everyone is allowed to audition and everyone gets a part, no matter what,” she said. “It’s really enjoyable, and you make lots of friends.”

While there are similarities between the two high school cultures, the school-wide assemblies were a change. “We had people with various talents perform at the assemblies, like bikers, singers and artists,” she said. “They would come in and teach us important things. [I didn’t like them] because it was really boring and super long.” Another positive change is driving a vehicle to school in Kansas, which is very different from using New York public transportation. “I took the bus and subway, but the buses were never on time, and I was always late for school,” Zhang said. “Also, it was very smelly.” She said there are a few improvements she would make to her previous school. “I like the BV tradition as it is — I would change the layout of the school [in New York] or have fewer students there because it was always super crowded going up and down the stairs every day,” she said. “[There are] 1,000 or something kids in [that] school. There are only three grades; it was crazy. New York is crazy.” After her experience as both an Eagle and a Tiger, Zhang said the atmosphere can create a difference in the energy of a school. “Community is really important for everybody to get along; I feel like having a school with an interesting culture is really fun,” Zhang said. “[Having] school spirit is really important because then everyone’s one giant family.”

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STEP SIBLING STRUGGLES

Students share experiences in blended family elle moulder |staff writer

ecoming a member of a blended family isn’t always an easy transition. Sophomores Julia Kingsbury and Liam McKinney each have their own take on gaining a new brother or sister. Kingsbury and McKinney had known each other for three years before their parents got married. “Me and Liam didn’t go to school together until seventh grade, the year our parents got married, and we all moved in together,” Kingsbury said. Two families becoming one is not always easy for the children involved, especially when it comes to household rules. “I learned more patience and a lot of other lessons,” McKinney said. McKinney and Kingsbury had different views on how much rules changed since many were already similar. “[They would say] not a lot of junk food, a lot more sharing [and you wouldn’t be] able to defend yourself if a younger sibling attacks you,” McKinney said. When it comes to the people one lives with, it is important to not only feel comfortable with them but also enjoy their presence. “At first,we were easily annoyed with one another due to not being used to being around the other person,” Kingsbury said. “I love my family and think we all adjusted to living together really well.” With a new family also comes shared traditions.

“My mom, sisters and I have always done breakfast in bed on your birthday, which we have continued and is now a house tradition,” Kingsbury said. When adjusting to a new family, it is important to have practices daily to become more familiar with one another. “We share our ‘High-Low-High’ at dinner,” McKinney said. “We all sit down for dinner together and share a good part of our day, a bad part of our day, and then end it with another high point.” There are more people going through a blended family situation than one might think. “Be open minded to do new things, and be ready to have it be the norm,” McKinney said. “Being patient and remembering what matters is important. Gaining a new stepfamily and moving can be stressful, but it’s important to remember it takes time to adjust. Being patient helps make the process easier.” For those who have gone through or are going through family changes, it is important to remember you are not alone. “I would advise looking at your new family as one big family instead of two different families in one house,” Kingsbury said. “Communicate and be flexible. Remember both families have been raised differently up until that point, so you’re not always going to agree on everything.” photo submitted by Julia Kingsbury

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TIGER PRINT

SPOTTED!! Blue Valley’s students and staff are witness to the implications of new “exposed” accounts and other repercussions of the social media craze by: kaitlin green, isaac hudson, sofia hughes, ayesha khan, stephanie kontopanos, harrison melton, ava mcguire & charley thomas

Caught well outside the lines in the parking lot, caught snoozing in class or simply caught off guard by rumors both whispered in halls and plastered on social media accounts, BV students must consider the consequences of being spotted in their everyday lives. As a new genre of Instagram accounts compounds the already complex virtual world, a “who-dun-it” ensues around Blue Valley, reminiscent of none other than the famed series Gossip Girl. Whether these modern gossip girls and guys are just a phase or here to stay, you know you love them. Read on to hear more about all things Instagram, gossip, and everything in between from us located on the upper east side of BV — the Tiger Print.

e-blast #2023

Paparazzi Profiles I SPOTTED: E’s “bad” parking job posted on @bvhs_badparking

user comments: “I should not have been featured — it was an amazing parking job.”

-EJWarren

n recent months, there has been an increase in “exposed” Instagram accounts for BV students. Whether it be @bvhs.slumped, @bvsideprofiles or one of the many accounts dedicated to revealing sub par or “abnormally good” parking jobs, these accounts have caught the attention of many. Junior Eleanor Warren believes these “exposed” accounts are run by other students and receive content from her fellow students as well. Warren herself was posted on @bvhs_badparking after a peer DMed the account. “I should not have been featured — it was an amazing parking job,” Warren said. “The parking lot was completely full, so I decided to park in the grass instead. One of my other friends took a picture of my parking on the grass and sent it in.” Whilst Warren sarcastically brushed off the ridicule of her parking abilities, she agrees the exposing platforms could have some negative impacts. “I don’t really mind [being featured] because it’s my car, but if it was BVHS Side Profiles or BVHS slumped, that’d be really awkward,” Warren said. “One of my friends threatened to send me in for that, but I wouldn’t let her. I feel like if it was a picture of me, I would feel a lot more exposed — but since it’s my car, no one really cares.” Warren said being unwillingly featured or having one’s privacy invaded on the accounts is a negative aspect to consider but overall believes the “exposed” accounts are simply light-hearted fun. “Some of the positives are that they’re funny, and it’s a good way to mess with people if they’re OK with it — but also, everyone has to be always alert and can’t take a little nap in class,” Warren said. “They’re funny, but there are definitely some negative aspects.”

Have you been featured on any student run bvhs accounts? Let us know... VOTE BELOW!!

73% 27%

have not have

e-blast #2024

on the cover february 2022

All eyes on us W ith social media being a public outlet to the lives of millions, it is necessary for athletes to uphold a certain standard when posting on these platforms. Although this goes for any athlete representing a respected organization, BV’s cheerleaders have felt the weight of this criteria. Cheerleader junior Gwen Helfry is among many who find themselves in the spotlight in regards to posts on their platforms. “I definitely have to uphold a certain standard when posting on social media because our coach follows our Instagrams so she can see everything we’re posting,” Helfry said. “I can’t post everything I would like to because there’s so many people that can see it, and I’m representing the school rules.” Most of these restrictions pertain to appropriate language and overall portrayal of oneself in the media. “We’ve had some rules for TikTok — even Instagram and Snapchat — just not making videos or using sounds that have profanity or bad language in it,” she said. “We can get demerits for what we post. After three demerits, you can get benched. It depends on the severity of what you’re posting and how many times you’ve broken the rule.” Helfry and her teammates have experienced first hand the result of disobeying these standards. “My freshman year, when TikTok was kind of big, our coaches found our TikTok accounts and went through all of them to see what we were posting,” Helfry said. “Many

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of us had TikToks to songs with bad language or it was inappropriate, so we were banned for a game.” The strictness of these guidelines tends to bother Helfry, especially when compared to other involvements at BV. “All the girls in our cheer program do a really nice job of holding each other accountable for what we post,” she said. “There’s been many times where girls in our program have been held accountable for posting something when there’s guys or people in other sports at our school that have never gotten any sort of consequence and just aren’t being watched like we are.” When looking at these firm principles, Helfry said it seems as though some flexibility in the matter would make it more reasonable to those applicable. “If I could change one rule, it would probably be that we don’t have to have our coach accepted on all of our social media accounts and platforms,” she said. “It’d be nice to have a little bit more freedom of what we can post and express ourselves like everyone else does without all the extra eyes on us.”

user comments: “It’d be nice to have a little bit more freedom of what we can post and express ourselves like everyone else does without all the extra eyes on us.”

-GPHelfry GPHelfry

SPOTTED: G goes public about her opinion regarding social media standards on cheer

e-blast #2025

Ring, ring: distractions calling

n recent years, Blue Valley has seen an increase in cell phone use among students. As an adult in the building, math teacher Tim Kennedy is no stranger to the issue of cell phones in the classroom and the negative effects they have on learning environments. “I think [cell phones] hurt attention, and the less attention, the less learning that goes on,” Kennedy said. “I am 100% sure that if the cell phone is put away and it’s not near them, the learning will be higher.” In order to keep devices out of students’ hands during class, many teachers have implemented the use of the phone caddy to physically remove students from the temptation of a screen. Though this technique has proven to be successful, Kennedy knows it is not a long-term solution. “We’re doing the right thing by taking cell phones away,” Kennedy said. “But at some point, all of us have to learn how to live with this and learn how to be respectful with a cell phone.” Kennedy believes changing the approach to cell phones in the classroom, especially with upperclassmen, will help prepare students for a future beyond high school.

an accounts are more than documenting celebrities’ lavish lifestyles and posting aesthetic edits of them; they are also used to feature student athletes throughout their seasons. Instagram accounts run by BV students have been popping up left and right, and one features basketball player junior Jackson Ackerman. In November, Ackerman received a follow request from an Instagram page by the tag @thebird_ackerman. “I found out about the account at the beginning of the season — it was right before the first game,” Ackerman said. “They requested to follow me on Instagram.” The page typically updates every game day, and in between, the posts contain various content relating to Ackerman. “They post pictures of me and motivational quotes,” Ackerman said. “The account has been pretty active, usually with a post every game day. I enjoy the posts because I think they’re pretty funny.” Ackerman has been playing basketball since his dad introduced it to him when he was 3 years old. Ever since, he’s had a love for the sport and the connections he’s made through it. The account provides him motivation. “It makes [me] want to play well because I know there’s somebody watching,” Ackerman said. “Fan accounts are pretty fun, and it connects fans and players.”

“The students, and us as people, have to be able to handle it,” he said. “We want to prepare for college — they’re going to be able to have cell phones in their pockets, and they have to learn how to handle themselves.” Though Kennedy believes the handheld devices are destructive to learning, he said the fault can’t be placed solely on individuals. “I have a hard time blaming the kids anymore because it is a societal addiction, and I have the same problem,” Kennedy said. “That’s something that we all have to get better at — not just students, but teachers and everybody.” As the second semester continues, Kennedy urges students to follow the directions of their teachers in order to create a productive learning environment. He also, however, hopes students do not feel ashamed because of the culture they experience. “I believe what is right is when you’re in a room and you’re supposed to be doing something, you do that,” Kennedy said. “When you’re on your own, there’s nothing wrong with being on a cell phone — that’s part of what [students] have grown up with. You don’t know anything different.”

e-blast #2026

Bird Man?

user comments:

“Fan accounts are pretty fun, and it connects fans and players.”

-JJAckerman JJAckerman

e-blast #2027

on the cover february 2022

Counting Sheep B ack in November 2021, a new kind of Instagram account emerged. Their purpose was to expose fellow students for falling asleep during class on @bvhs_naps. The account first posted on Nov. 30, and since then, has had a steady stream of napping classmates to feature on their posts. In order to retain anonymity, the owner of the account is still largely unknown, and they plan to keep it that way. “Even though some people have started to figure it out, I have tried to be very careful with who I tell,” they said. “It has also been hard to not say that I run the account while people are talking about it right in front of me, [which] has happened on multiple occasions.” Despite the sheer amount of photos being submitted and posted on the account, the owner said they have been fortunate enough to not have anyone ask to have a picture removed. “I have made it very clear that if anyone wants a photo taken down, I will take it down immediately,” they said. “I even have this in my bio to encourage people to [reach out] if they feel uncomfortable. Message me and I will remove their image — I don’t want anybody [to feel] harassed.” Luckily for Naps, the stream of new photos hasn’t slowed down much since the beginning of the account in November. “People send me multiple photos every day,” they said. “I

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post whenever I have enough photos.” During the time that these accounts have been running, there has been some competition between the different profiles, such as the Bad Parking and Good Parking accounts and between Naps and Slumped. “The other accounts are interesting,” the Naps owner said. “The parking accounts are great, and I personally love them. They’re hilarious. On the other hand, the other sleep account, ‘Slumped’ I have no interest in. I really could just care less.” At the zenith of the accounts, the owner feels the need to succeed was almost too much. “I think we both felt pressured to get more followers than the other — [Slumped] definitely did not like how I started my account shortly after theirs and accused me of ‘copying their idea,’” they said. “I did not care though because I started to take the account less seriously. This was fun for me because I had previous Instagram algorithm knowledge.” Now that the height of the BV Instagram accounts is over, owners of accounts like BVHS Naps have either had to abandon the fad or find some new ways to keep their audience. “The trend sort of died and I had stopped posting but recently I came up with further plans for the account,” the owner of Naps said. “It will end whenever the road ends.”

We’re curious... what are your thoughts on these accounts? Let us know below! Do you feel uncomfortable because of these accounts?

59% no 41% yes/somewhat

Do you follow any student-run bvhs accounts?

83% yes 17% no

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february 2022

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going public! BV student discusses tra n s

English teacher revea

Private schools are made out to be the nicest and most prestigious schools out there, but are they really? Sophomore Miranda Mayer has had experience attending both private and public schools. “I went to St. Thomas Aquinas — I transferred after my first semester of freshman year,” Mayer said. “For elementary and middle school, I was at St. Michael the Archangel.” Private schools work really well for some but not so much for others. “It was very cliquey — I would say the teachers just feel like they’re not happy,” Mayer said. “They give off the vibe that they’re just trying to get things off a list. I feel like I never learned anything important.”

Private schools do have some advantages to them. “It’s easy to make friends and [the schools are] very organized,” Mayer said. There are more differences between private and public schools beyond uniforms, which bring quite a bit of controversy to the conversation. “Everyone thinks, ‘Oh, it’s nice you don’t have to pick out what to wear’ — but no, the uniforms were so ugly,” she said. After transferring from private to public schools, Mayer could truly come to a conclusion of which type of schooling she gravitated toward. “I definitely prefer the freedom of public school — I feel like the teachers are really into it,” Mayer said. “I’ve had some of the best teachers that I’ve ever had here at Blue Valley.”

fe r t o p u b l i c s c h o o l

elle moulder|staff writer

ls private school diff erences sofia hughes|staff writer After 12 years of teaching at Notre Dame de Sion High School, English teacher Casey Engel has moved from the private school world to public school at Blue Valley. She knew from the minute her interview began that she wanted to work at BV. “I immediately started engaging in conversation with Mr. Dalton, Mrs. Kramer and Mr. Bacon as though I had already known them. I just felt like immediately I belonged here,” Engel said. “My first impression was, ‘this is truly a positive, welcoming school.’ The foundation of strong morals and the love for students was apparent from my first minute here.” Engel first taught at a public school in Chicago, then moved to Kansas and began teaching at Olathe South, but in 2009, she realized it wasn’t the right fit for her at that point in her life. “At that time, I was looking for a small school experience. Sion happened to have a position open, and I thought, ‘well, this will be interesting; an all-girls, Catholic-but-interfaith school [will be] totally different from my public school background,” Engel said. “The focus on social justice was very inviting to me — you know, respecting students from all walks of life.” Sion is a private Catholic and interfaith school, which leads to different practices than a public school like Blue Valley may follow. “There’s a lot of differences with how a school day

might look [at Sion] sometimes, especially on religious holidays — and not just Christian religious holidays,” Engel said. “There’s celebrations of [all of] the major religions, and students will represent their religions in school gatherings.” Though Blue Valley is secular due to its public nature, the school still acknowledges and respects different holidays. “When I first started here, our administration emphasized how we need to respect and recognize religious holidays — all religious holidays,” Engel said. “They gave us information on when those are because we need to value and represent all students here, too. I was excited about that.” Sion is a small school with 585 students currently enrolled. “[Class sizes] can get down to 10, 11 [or] 12 students, which really is ideal if you want to give them constant feedback, innovative curriculum and work with different creative projects — that’s really, really nice,” Engel said. Though the class sizes are different at the schools, the students are largely the same. “I have adored my private and public students; they are seriously fantastic, and that goes for their parents, too, who have a vested interest in their students’ success,” she said. “Personally, I just came from one of the best private schools in the midwest and landed at one of the best public schools in the country, so I’m feeling super lucky.”

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february 2022

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Staying Together Friends continue friendship beyond high school harrison melton|staff writer Staying in touch after graduation is a challenge for any relationship. People move, become focused on their studies, and eventually make new friends. However, seniors Landon Menees and Ethan Loftin plan to take on this nerve-wracking transition together. “[Ethan] visited KU and thought he wanted to go there,” Menees said. “Then he went to K-State and immediately texted me and was like, ‘I’m going to go to K-State.’” For their freshman year, they are planning on living together in a dorm. Following their first year, Menees and Loftin are open to living arrangements outside of a dorm. “I wouldn’t live in a frat house, but I might join a business fraternity where you don’t have to live in a house,” Menees said. “If we live together after the first year, we’d probably live in an apartment.” Between them both being business majors and attending the same school, Loftin said “it worked out perfectly.” Rooming with a friend is known to rarely workout and can lead to various challenges, but they believe it’ll go smoothly. “I’ve gone on an extended trip with [Landon,] and he put up with me,” Loftin said. ”I’m pretty cranky in the morning, and he’s the only friend that hasn’t been like that, too, so hopefully it will be fun.” To avoid any morning discourse, Menees said he “just won’t talk to him in the morning.” They both have their pet peeves when it comes to a roommate, and it comes down to one

thing — cleanliness. “I’m kind of a neat freak, and he leaves water bottles everywhere,” Loftin said. “I need everything to be in its correct spot for my space. You’ve got to keep your area organized. If it’s not organized then I can’t. It’s over.” Menees shares the same opinion regarding organization. “[I hate] being messy,” Menees said. “If you can’t keep your stuff in your area, like if your clothes are all over the ground, that bothers me.” Despite the curse that friends who room together eventually go their separate ways, Loftin and Menees believe they’ll overcome this preconception due to their laidback personalities. “He’s pretty easy-going and easy to get along with,” Loftin said. “I think it’ll be fine.”

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february 2022

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citygirl

student dresses in east coast style rhylan stern |staff writer Fashion is something that is incorporated into everyone’s daily life but for some more than others. Sophomore Ava McNiel is one of those people who are fascinated by clothing. “I started becoming interested in fashion a few years ago when I started getting into Pinterest and saving pins,” McNiel said. “It really brought out my interest in fashion and looking at clothes.” Throughout the past year, different styles have become trendy, but one in particular seemed to stick for her. To get a feel for the “City Girl” aesthetic, McNiel doesn’t do much. “I get a lot of inspiration off of Pinterest, which influences the way I dress myself,” McNiel said. “There is one girl I found on Instagram — her name is Sofia Coelho — and I was really inspired by her. She is really unique with the way she dresses.” To have this aesthetic, there is a preferred set of clothing items and shoes needed. “I believe puffer coats, hoodies, blazers, bell-bottoms, flared jeans [and] anything that is baggy or relaxed but still preppy goes in that category of city style,” McNiel said. “Shoes like Converse, Doc Martens and any kind of [Nike] Jordan’s fit into that area.” Along with specific types of clothing items, there are also certain accessories she is drawn to.

“[I like to wear] big chains and chunky jewelry like hoops or rings — anything that is not too bold but simple enough to pair with your outfit,” McNiel said. “Tote bags, any small clutch or purse [also] goes really well.” To get these clothes for preferred outfits, McNiel has a few places she loves. “I shop at Target, thrift stores, REI, Scheel’s and sometimes Marshalls to get this aesthetic,” she said. For McNiel, fashion is something she looks at to find herself. “I think [this style] fits my personality and interests me the most,” she said. “It’s a way for self-expression because it emphasizes your own personality and the way you express yourself.”

ava’s style guide a look at ava’s favorite pieces Long Sleeve Shirt-Marshalls

White Puffer Coat-Target

Shoes-Converse

Cargo Pants-Target

photos submitted by ava mcniel

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february 2022

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harris jones |staff writer Fashion: many love it and most likely just as many hate it. But you can find people who adore fashion all over. With the rise of many subcultures through social media it seems like there’s a style for everyone out there. Senior Christina Stone has been sewing from the time she was little, sparking a love for fashion at a young age. Recently through her job at the Renaissance Festival, she may have scored an internship to pursue her hobby. “I met Valorie Smith who did the costumes for our performing group and offered an apprenticeship seeing my interest,” she said. “She owns a Bridal shop, and I would be practicing altering clothing and coordinating costume pieces among other things.” The experience this internship offers could lead to many more doors opening for her down the road with the skills she may gain. Stone would be joining Smith and other colleagues from her troupe at the festival while learning more about the world of fashion. Speaking of the world of fashion, it’s very easy to get caught up in what brands are in and what are out, and what brands make you look the most expensive, instead of what clothes just make you happy. “I thrift almost everything and try not to pay attention to brands to make sure I’m picking something up because I like its look,” Stone said. Like Stone, many others have started thrifting more clothes for many reasons, whether it be to save money, to help the environment or even just to find some more vintage pieces. Fashion for now remains just a hobby for Stone, though she could continue through the Renaissance Festival to find more opportunities in fashion in the future.

Stud e “I’ll be able perf nt’s orm to gain a new ing experience expe and r perspective to p ience le ossi for how our ads b clothing is in l e tern made from s hip an idea to wearable, plus I’ll be able to work on a dress form for the first time,” she said. “I think that’s really cool.” Fashion means different things to everyone, whether it just be something to dress you, or the outward appearance of your personality — but Stone sums up what it means to her and offers advice to anyone nervous about expressing themselves through their style. “Fashion is a form of self expression, but I think it could be taken to the next level of literally wearing anything you want because you like it — not only if it looks ‘on trend,’” she said. “Anybody can pull off a look with enough confidence, so it doesn’t entirely matter what you’re wearing, just how it makes you feel.”

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february 2022

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“

Sophomore expresses feelings on societal pressures

n top of showing how she keeps a unique perspective on life and remains truly confident in herself, sophomore Mattie Thornton provides her stance on the stresses of trying to fit in. Do you feel pressure In the modern-day to conform to societal and age, the influence standards of wealth and pressure that society and appearance? provides to the young and 44% impressionable can make no them feel that fitting in — yes for example, acting and looking a 56% 106 certain way — is the only path stu den to contentment. This can be ts sur vey classified as trying to “keep ed up with the Joneses.” “I feel like being a young girl, and having Instagram models and things like that, society does pressure me to look a certain way, and do things a certain way to fit in,” Thornton said. Striving to keep up with those surrounding oneself can allow for the erasure of individuality and uniqueness. Thornton believes amongst other qualities she has, a physical trait she possesses is her striking hair, which helps set her apart from others. “I’m a little ginger, and there’s not a lot of those,” Thornton said. “I also have curly hair, which I used to straighten every day to be more like others. But now, I’m embracing my natural hair.” According to “The Psychology Behind Keeping Up With the Joneses” by Craig Guillot, it is human nature to look to others for confirmation of one’s social and economic status.

Wanting to be on the same level or even exceed those perceived as “perfect” because of materialistic standards can often lead to only caring about You were material things and made the way the obsession of putting up a you are for picture-perfect front. Thornton a reason — believes to you’re made stay true to oneself and not to be different. be intimidated by mattie the compulsion of thornton perfection “you just 10 gotta stay confident with yourself.” However, staying true to that originality isn’t always as easy as it presents. “Everybody has struggled to stay true to themselves at least once in their life, sometimes more than others,” Thornton said. “[It’s not necessary] to try and please society. You were made the way you are for a reason — you’re made to be different. If everyone’s trying to be the same, it’s just boring.” While it may seem like an uphill battle trying to combat the pressure to conform to what society deems as perfect and efficacious, Thornton wants those who are young and feel that “keeping up with the Joneses” is the only way to be satisfied to know this: staying confident is key. “I know that’s hard — easier said than done,” Thornton said. “But, you were made that way for a reason. Not everyone can be the same. There’s got to be some diversity. There really is no need to keep up with the Joneses.”

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ava mcguire |staff writer

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february 2022

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Navigating Relationships in High School Advice from a counselor about friendships and relationships amy collins | staff writer Navigating friendships in high school can be a very difficult task, as high school is a time of change and personal growth. As people change and mature, it is common for friends to go their separate ways. Many high school students experience a breakup whether it is in a friendship or in a relationship. Counselor April Henke knows firsthand what it is like to go through a friendship breakup, even as an adult. “It can be saddening,” she said. “It also, depending on the situation, can be a good situation [if] you decide that person wasn’t good for you mentally.” Having good friends is extremely important as high school is full of ups and downs. Whether it’s a friendship or a relationship, it’s important to make sure the people in your life value you and have good friendship qualities. “They have to be very trustworthy — that’s the biggest thing for [a] friendship because your friends are the people you tell things to so you have to trust they are going to keep that information,” Henke said. “Whether it’s a friendship or a partner, I don’t think that matters. Either way, you want them to be trustworthy and honest.” It’s also important to recognize red flags in friendships and relationships. Henke believes one of the most important things to look for is someone that validates your feelings and supports you. “A lot of times you just have to trust your gut and ask yourself, ‘Does a person feel right to you?’’’ Henke said. “Also if you’re talking to them and they don’t support you [or] if you’re saying, I want to do this or I feel this way about something [and] they’re going against what you [say or] feel, that’s a red flag. Getting in an argument with a friend is normal and does not mean you have to end the friendship. Henke recommends working through arguments with your friend so you both can move on and not hold a grudge against each other. “Be open and honest; try to have a conversation face to face — no texting [or] social media,” Henke said. “Meet with them and have a conversation. Be honest about how you feel.”

She also recommends reflecting on your friendship and how that person benefits you. ”I would say make a list of all the positive reasons why that person has impacted your life so that you can share that with them and tell them why you feel like the relationship is worth saving for you,” Henke said. Many people experience their first romantic relationship in high school. This also means that many go through their first breakup at the same time, which can be extremely hard and scary to navigate. Henke knows how difficult it can be to experience a breakup but believes failed relationships are learning experiences. “Don’t worry about it — everything [will] be all right,” Henke said. “There’s going to be plenty of time in your life for you to find the person.” As the saying goes, people come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. “You just have to figure out who you need in your life and who you don’t,” Henke said. “If that person is meant to be in your life, you’ll work it out. If they’re not then move on because there are plenty of other people out there that will help support you to be the best person you can be.”

BE FRI

ST ST ENDS ENDS

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february 2022

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BlueValleyHighSchool: Chat Room

i heard a rumor

File Edit Insert People

BV students share rumors, stories bvtigernews (mod): What are some rumors you’ve heard about yourselves? _rept!l!anlL0rd_ : Some people thought I was a shape-shifting lizard PeePill0w4: That I kissed a pillow that had pee on it xX_petty.yeti_Xx: I peed in a sink while eating a snow cone _le$bean_: That I’m a lesbian. It’s not too far off K00laid.drinker_9000: People thought I was in a cult single.pringle.rdy.2.mingle: I only date for the attention bby_f@ce.grndchild_01: My grandpa was in the mafia wig_flu.08: That my hair was fake wicked4lyf: I’ve heard that I’m a witch Team_jacob.02: That I was a werewolf k9.slayer: That I killed my dog Spy.kid_4: That I am a spy

bvtigernews (mod): Tell us an embarassing story. f!gurinexfugitive: I helped kidnap my teacher’s action figures and organized a ransom for their return _salty.g@l_: I used to eat the salt on the ground that prevents ice until I realized it’s not the salt I thought it was bead_lvr_<3: I hid those little plastic Mardi Gras babies around school gta6when?: I got into the wrong car in the middle school car line p00p.shoes.4lyf: I stepped in human poop in the girls bathroom cl1ff_h4nger: Ceiling poop

Font:

bvtigernews (mod): Y’all are weird.

- 13 +

A BI U

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people’s privilege bv students anonymously share privileges what’s your privilege?

user13756: “I’m upper-middle class.” user67590: “I live in a wealthy district.” user12345: “Car privileges.” user1762: “I live in Johnson County.” user1003: “Pretty privilege.” user4690: “Good healthcare.” user5761: “White privilege.” user12345: “Able-bodied.” user8312: “Good education.” user0972: “Economic privilege.” user12345: “I’m above the poverty line.” TYPE HERE TO COMMENT...

CANCEL

SUBMIT

90% of students believe they have privilege 106 students surveyed

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february 2022

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THE ISSUE WITH IVIES x

Top-ranking college admissions contribute to systemic classism, racism

stephania kontopanos |assistant editor

Growing up, I and many others hoped to apply to the Ivy Leagues. When I expressed this to people around me, I often heard I would need to study hard to get As and earn high scores on standardized tests. While that still holds true, as I’ve learned more about the application process, I’ve also understood there’s more nuance and complexity in Ivy League admissions — and by the same logic, merit scholarships — than what most people understand. Firstly, there’s the situation with legacy bias. According to The Guardian, 10 to 15 percent of students admitted to ivies are legacies. At Harvard alone, the acceptance rate for legacies is 27 percent higher than non-legacy applicants. Legacy applicants, combined with children of faculty members and students whose parents have donated to the school, make up almost half the student body. These admissions decisions are thus also rooted in racism and elitism. Most of these legacy students are Caucasian. As for elitism, it relates to generational wealth. If someone’s parents went to an Ivy, they are likely wealthy enough to pay for it. That wealth is then passed down to the applicant. Applicants are given advantage for a situation that’s out of their control. That’s great for them, but for poorer students who are less likely to be legacies, their application is weakened by something predetermined. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule, but this is generally how the situation unfolds. Secondly, educational opportunities are often correlated with financial means. An applicant’s “merit” has ties to their socioeconomic standing. For example, if an applicant is economically disadvantaged, they will more likely live in the city and go to a public school. According to the Atlantic, in both city schools and public schools, students score lower on standardized tests. Furthermore, Niche.com is a website OMG! that gives schools letter grades based

breaking news!

on certain criteria such as academics, teachers, and college prep. Information on their site concludes that schools closer to downtown Kansas City are more likely to get “B,” “C,” and “D” academic ratings, which means that although students there may earn high grades, the quality of education is still low. This is especially true in comparison with schools in the suburbs, whose academics earn high “A” ratings. Outside of the broader school system, more economic opportunities are available to those who are well-off. Even with standardized tests, wealthier people can pay for more and better resources, such as private tutoring. Wealthier people can pay to take the SAT or ACT several times, whereas someone who is less financially stable might only be able to take it once, leaving no room for improvement. Programs like Acceptitas and Polygence that provide guidance on the “passion projects” that college admissions officers love to see cost thousands of dollars. Additionally, most Ivy League schools such as Columbia and Brown offer pre-college educational programs. These resources look great on a college application. They’re also very costly, which tells the school that you’ve given them so much money before and you’re willing to do it again. It gives the college incentive to admit you based on both your merit and your financial contributions. This isn’t to say that certain people don’t work hard for their Ivy admission, and it isn’t to say that they didn’t overcome obstacles or shouldn’t be proud of their accomplishments. It simply means non-legacies, people of lower economic status or persons of color have to work harder because of those disadvantages to get to the same place as their more privileged counterparts. The Ivy Leagues and other colleges in general are finding solutions to level out these playing fields. Affirmative action programs, such as scholarships tailored toward racial minorities, attempt to remedy this problem. The common application’s “Additional Information” writing section allows for applicants to explain these complexities in their lives. While this intent is sincere, the disparity in educational opportunities proves to be systemic, deep-rooted issues in our society that colleges alone can’t fix.

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opinion

february 2022

design by amy collins

Privilege

Recognizing privileges, being grateful for them is crucial amy collins |staff writer

Privilege is defined as having special rights, advantages or immunities. When I think of privilege, I think of someone who has everything they could possibly want — someone who drives a fancy car, wears designer brands, lives in a mansion and has money to buy whatever they want. However, privilege is a lot more complicated than what car you drive or what clothes you wear. Privilege lies beyond the materialistic side of society and is rooted in the identity and culture of a person. Factors such as sex, gender identity, race, age, language, education and income are what inherently determine the privilege of an individual. Unlike inequalities, our privilege tends to be hidden as we often forget how well off in life we are. Some people who have privileges don’t recognize them because they are surrounded by people who have similar privileges to them and have not experienced what it is like to be less privileged in life. I can admit and acknowledge how privileged I am. I live in a nice house in a very safe community, get a good education and don’t have to worry about my family’s financial income. Most of the privileges I have exist because of the family I was born into, as privilege is something that builds upon generations and runs within a family. It is important to recognize the privileges you have and how they affect your life. It is easy to forget how well off you are when comparing yourselves to your friends who seem like they have it all.

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The truth is not having to worry about whether you’re going to have enough money to afford your next meal, wondering where you are going to sleep or if you are going to get a good education are all privileges. Those are all things that many of us in Johnson County don’t have to worry about but are prominent issues within our society that revolve around inequalities. According to a study done by USDA, 38 million people in the U.S. struggle with having enough food to eat, with food insecurity higher in Black, Latino and mixed-raced communities. In addition to food insecurity, income is a factor affected by privilege. The gender wage gap has remained relatively steady in the past 15 years, with females having an annual wage that is 84% of their male counterparts with the same job. In addition to the gender wage gap, race also affects income in other ways, with Hispanic male workers making 91 cents for every dollar earned by white men — and Black male workers making only 87 cents for every dollar earned by white men. Privilege has been painted as something that’s negative, and when combined with the human tendency of being unable to receive criticism, it often causes people to get defensive when being called privileged. While privilege can sometimes be a tough thing to talk about and recognize, it’s extremely important to appreciate the privileges you have in your life. We must first acknowledge our own privileges in order to see others’ differences and strive to understand their points of view. Therefore, it is important to surround yourself with a diverse group of people so you are not blind to your privileges. Next time you are thinking about that expensive sports car you want or the new iPhone you must get, remember the privileges you have and be grateful for them.

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opinion

february 2022

design by isaac hudson

THE RICH & WEALTHY Money can amplify individuals’ strengths, weaknesses mena walker |staff writer

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Wealth is a mirror, often revealing and amplifying whatever weaknesses or strengths already exist within ourselves. For instance, if you were insecure before you became wealthy, money can magnify those insecurities. Are pop stars and celebrities ever really sure the people hanging out with them really like them or are befriending them because of their money? Money is a tool. It allows you to meet our basic needs – food, shelter, transportation, healthcare – as well as other things you want like exotic vacations or an expensive wardrobe. You get the gist. Money is a resource used to survive and thrive, but it doesn’t entirely translate to happiness. It enables you, and the more you have, the more choices you can make. But what choices will you make? According to Live Science, Paul Biff reports wealthier people are likely to support unethical behavior. “Wealth can change the way you think and feel, but it can’t change your identity,” he wrote. Affluence has the tendency to exaggerate personality through social value, self-sufficiency, self-view, ethics and addiction. Eventually, your morals will likely determine more about you than the size of your paycheck. The disadvantages of being too rich are often overlooked. Wealth has been related to addiction, tolerance, stress, fear, anxiety and negative consequences. But the correlation does not ensure causation. For instance, you may win the lottery for $27 million. But what are you going to do with it? Invest wisely or blow it on a shopping spree? Wealth isn’t always associated with negative behavior. With her inspiring rags-to-riches story, American talk show host Oprah Winfrey became a successful billionaire. Her family during childhood was exceedingly poor. With little to

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no clothing, Winfrey was forced to wear potato sacks. She first lived with her grandmother then was sent to live with her mother, who was even poorer. According to Insider, Winfrey’s life didn’t improve until she went to live with her father in Nashville, Tennessee. She eventually went to college to pursue journalism, then started and hosted her own television show that became syndicated nationally, broadcasted to more than 100 other countries by 1986. “I don’t think of myself as a poor deprived ghetto girl who made good,” Winfrey said. “I think of somebody who from an early age knew I was responsible for myself, and I had to make good.” Winfrey used her money to help by starting 60 schools in 13 countries, creating scholarships, advocating for women’s shelters, supporting programs for African-American students and building youth centers and homes. She also stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic, using her wealth to help others by commiting $12 million through the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation. As high schoolers, we’re very anxious about our futures. Soon enough, you will graduate, maybe go to college, get a job and then live in the real world on your own. You’ll have to decide what you want, how much you’ll need and what you’ll do with what you earn. It’s known money alone can’t make you happy, but it sure can make life feel more enjoyable. You want the possibilities money creates — the more money you have, the more choices you get. Regardless of the opportunities money may provide, it’s what you do with it that really matters.

opinion

february 2022

design by charlie trent

|CARTOON BY PALAK PANCHAL

Lack of social media privacy rights does not warrant non-consensual posts The current generation of high school students has not only grown up around teen television shows such as Gossip Girl which showcase the dangers of social media, but it has also experienced the harrowing effects of copy-cat accounts which have popped up in their own circles along the way. Since middle school, anonymous “shipping accounts” and “gossip” pages have surfaced to exploit sameage peers on the internet, chiefly on Instagram, which is notorious for its lack of accountability toward unwanted pages receiving reports, resulting in an unstoppable stream of discomfort members of the community cannot escape. Without outlined technological or social media protections under the United States law for citizens — much less minors — young adults are left to inherit a landscape in which they are subject to online ridicule, fighting an intangible, unknown source simply to

exist without the threat of their mistakes following them. The highlight reel that is mainstream social media allows for any content creators to showcase the absolute pinnacle of their personality and looks, regardless of whether their platform is big or small. If young, impressionable students are accustomed to viewing themselves and others on this pedestal of perfection, it is no wonder that these exposing pages garner so much attention. In a society surrounded by what seems to be constant performance, catching someone in an unfortunate sleeping position on their desk at school or learning about a scandal between two friends reminds the typical young adult that imperfection exists. Though on some level this taste of human nature is comforting to the everyday individual, this does not stop any backlash or negatives which result from an unfavorable social media moment.

According to a 2014 study done by Igor Pantic, MD, PhD on Online Social Networking and Mental Health, “individuals with lower self-esteem are more active online in terms of having more self-promotional content on their [Facebook] profiles,” meaning that even the autonomous choice to appear on social media lowers self-esteem, much less a non-consensual appearance. The opportunity for a more welcoming and healthy online relationship with ourselves and others lies in the hands of this generation, and without the threat of legal consequence from posting negatively about those around us, this is not necessarily a seamless task. Through the commitment to a safer digital landscape and the consideration of others, however, it is possible. Before posting content on any social media platform, consider whether the momentary amusement is worth sacrificing the wellness of those around you.

This staff editorial is the representation of the opinion of The Tiger Print staff.

a&e

february 2022

design by frannie lamberti

senior lookalikes of Gossip Girl characters OLIVIA KING

TV TWINS

“I have watched Gossip Girl many times,” King said. “Our hair is similar and there is a little bit of resemblance but not that much.”

SERENA VAN DER WOODSEN

CHARLIE DEZUBE “I have not seen Gossip Girl,” DeZube said. “I see a little resemblance.”

photo courtesy of charlie dezube

CHUCK BASS

photo courtesy of olivia king photo courtesy of megd

photo courtesy of Pinterest

ELLA QUIGLEY

“Yes, I watched Gossip Girl last year,” Quigley said. “I can’t compare to the queen herself, but in some shape or form I think we look similar.”

photo courtesy of ella quigley

photo courtesy of tyler cunningham

DAN HUMPHREY

TYLER CUNNINGHAM

BLAIR WALDORF photo courtesy of ELLE

“No, I don’t watch Gossip Girl,” Cunningham said. “Our hair is similar, but I don’t think we look that much alike.”

photo courtesy of Pinterest

JACK SARTINO

“I do not watch Gossip Girl,” Sartino said. “I think I somewhat look like Nate, maybe in a couple years.”

NATE ARCHIBALD photo courtesy of Buzzfeed

photo courtesy of jack sartino