ALSO IN THIS ISSUE... CENTRAL ESPORTS WHATABURGER REVIEW AI APOCALYPSE
VOL U
ME
109 I
SSU
E3
SPR I NG
202
3
COVER DESIGN BY MELISSA TRAN
TECH IN THE CLASSROOM
PG. 26 PG. 28 PG. 30
IN THIS
ISSUE
OPINION
A “Bluntly” Ridiculous Decision Whataburger Review Trans Trials and Tribulations AI Apocalypse
Pg. 1 Pg. 28 Pg. 29 Pg. 30
NEWS Accolades Moms For Liberty Gain Steady Power A Look Into Climate Change’s Impact SWOT: A NASA Satellite Mission Proposition S Meeting The School Board Candidates 4-Day School Weeks in MO An Interview With Rep. Stephanie Hein Ukraine, A Year Later Volumes of Violence Perusing the Premiership
Pg. 3 Pg. 5 Pg. 6 Pg. 8 Pg. 9 Pg. 10 Pg. 12 Pg. 13 Pg. 14 Pg. 15 Pg. 16
FEATURES Central’s Key Club Welcome to the Red Kingdom Athlete Health Working While in High School Languages in the Library The Sticky Note Project
Pg. 17 Pg. 18 Pg. 19 Pg. 20 Pg. 21 Pg. 22
SPORTS Archery Aims for State Central High’s Dancing Queens The Keys to Becoming a Legend
Pg. 24 Pg. 25 Pg. 26
ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIP POLICY
The Central High Times has the right to accept, reject, edit, or cancel any advertisement at any time. Advertising will not contain statements, illustrations, or implications offensive to good taste or public decency based on the opinion of the Central High Times staff (i.e. any content containing anything racist, sexist, illegal for high school students or violates journalistic principles). Advertisements accepted by the Central High Times staff are not an endorsement from the staff, adviser, administration, or Springfield Public Schools District. Advertisements should refrain from attacking competitors unfairly or disparaging their products, services, or methods of doing business. If your organization would like to advertise in the Central High Times, or if you would like to provide a financial sponsorship for the Central High Times, please contact the adviser, Kori Chrismer, at kechrismer@spsmail. org. Sponsorships begin at $25 per year, advertising pricing begins at $50.00 per issue, and all money raised goes toward our printing budget.
WAGS & GROWLS
ANIA KOVACS / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
W
The sequel to winter break: four snow days in a row.
A growl to mischevious activities in the bathroom... keep it classy, Central.
W
G
So many clubs and sports teams have advanced to state this season. Woof!
As sophomores age up, the parking spots fill up.
EDITORIAL POLICY The Central High Times is a studentproduced publication of the Central High School journalism department. The staff and adviser strive to create an open forum for students and teachers. We take responsibility for accuracy and fairness and for work to be unbiased and responsive to the needs of readers in order to encourage the submission of readers’ ideas. We promise to practice honesty, to run the paper as a business and to avoid printing material that is legally considered obscene, libelous or private.
G
ADVISER Kori Chrismer EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ania Kovacs ASST. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ned Pickett PHOTO EDITOR Ollie Francis COPY EDITORS Emmarie Logan, Madi Taylor DIRECTOR OF ART & DESIGN Natalie Reece SENIOR REPORTER Lilith Creemer REPORTERS Miles Como, Travis Davison, Nathaniel Hunter, Allison Loughary, Nina Malega, Morgan Martens, Caden RectorCurrent THE CHT Volume 109 Issue 3 CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL 423 E. Central St., Springfield, MO 65802 CONTACT kechrismer@spsmail.org FONT FAMILIES Function, Century PUBLISHER Jostens Publishing
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY
The Central High Times encourages the submission of ideas or comments from readers. Letters to the Editor must contain no more than 150 words. Letter to the Editor submissions should be typed, printed, signed and delivered to Central High School’s journalism office (room 024) or sent to kechrismer@spsmail.org with the subject line “Letter to the CHT Editor.” The Central High Times reserves the right to edit submissions for grammatical and spelling errors and for space limitations.
A Blunt-ly Ridiculous Decision LETTER FROM THE EDITOR ANIA KOVACS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear readers, I am writing to express my concern about the recent decision to rename Temple Hall, the building that represents the College of Natural and Applied Sciences at Missouri State University, after Senator Roy Blunt. I believe that this decision is morally wrong for several reasons. Senator Roy Blunt is generally seen as a skeptic of the mainstream scientific consensus on
science education, apprenticeship programs, TRIO and the Pell Grant program (including year-round Pell). $50 million of the $56 million appropriated by Senator Blunt’s efforts to support MSU facilities will go towards the expansion and renovation of the former Temple Hall. The expansion project will include the addition of 77,000 additional square feet and then the renovation of
Roy Blunt Hall, photo courtesy of Missouri State University.
A rendering of the addition to Roy Blunt Hall, photo courtesy of Missouri State University.
Senator Roy Blunt shakes hands with Missouri State President Clif Smart, photo courtesy of the Springfield News Leader.
climate change. He has expressed concerns about the economic impact of policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and has voted against legislation to address climate change. He has also supported increasing domestic energy production, including the use of fossil fuels. However, Blunt now has an MSU building named after him due to his decisions to increase funding for STEM and computer
portions of the existing 126,000 square feet. Phase one is expected to cost $80 million and should be completed in fall 2024. The expansion portion will include new labs, office suits, offices for graduate students, and collaboration space for students and faculty. Science as a discipline is built on the foundation of evidence and the search for objective truth. Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet, and the overwhelming scientific consensus is that it is driven by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels. By naming a science building after a senator
who denies this consensus and votes against policies to address this issue, we are sending a message that undermines the very principles of science and the importance of evidence-based decision making. Educational institutions have a responsibility to prepare students to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change. By naming its building after a senator who opposes action on climate change, we are indirectly endorsing a position that is not only unscientific, but also harmful to the future of our planet and its inhabitants. As someone that values social responsibility in politicians, I believe we have a moral obligation to take a stand against those who deny the reality of climate change and the urgent need for action. By naming Temple Hall after a senator who votes against climate change policies, we are indirectly supporting a dangerous and irresponsible ideology that threatens the future our planet. I strongly urge Missouri State University to reconsider the decision to rename this building after Senator Roy Blunt. Instead, let us celebrate and honor those who are working to protect the future of our planet and its inhabitants through evidence-based and responsible policies.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • OPINION • 1
WE ARE HIRING TEACHER ASSISTANTS, TUTORS, AND PROCTORS!
Corrections Corner
Correction from Central High Times Volume 109, Issue 2
Mention this ad for a FREE ACT/SAT Practice Test
The Central High Times apologizes to the Central Girls Volleyball team. The statistics that were listed in the Fall sports season recap were incomplete. While we had asked the coaches for statistics, we were also given statistics by a student athlete. Unfortunately, the statistics provided by the student athlete were not based on the same standards that the coaches had utilized when choosing statistics to share with our staff and were not comprehensive for the entire team. The Central High Times staff and the Central Girls Volleyball coaches would like to additionally recognize the following student athletes for their Conference standings:
Laramie Hill #6 in Ozarks Conference for Digs (409) Miliana Sylvester #7 in Ozarks Conference for Kills (267) Way to go, ladies! We are so proud of you!
Watch for promotions and sales on our social media!
ONLY good at Sylvan of Springfield, MO
What can Sylvan do for you?
* ACT Prep * SAT Prep * Homework Help
* Math Tutoring * Reading Tutoring * Writing Tutoring
Mention this ad for $100 off any program. ONLY good at Sylvan of Springfield, MO
ACCOLADES
FBLA Takes Home Medals At Districts FBLA pulled through strongly in their District Competition at MSU with 49 students moving on to the state leadership conference in April. There were 17 first place winners along with 11 second place medalists, and 6 third place medalists. Congratulations to these bulldogs for their fantastic competition!
MILES COMO / REPORTER
Sterling Vinson Crushes School Record
Step Team Wins World Of Step The Central Step Team won first place in the novice division of the World Of Step Competition tournament hosted by Peru, competing against step teams from all around the world. Great job to these Bulldogs for their success.
In Central’s loyalty boys basketball game against Lebanon, Sterling Vinson scored a single game scoring record of 47 points, which also marked his second time scoring more than 40 points in a single game. This is a feat that has only been achieved 7 times in Central’s Boys Basketball history. The Bulldogs scored 91 points over Lebanon’s 82. Congratulations to Sterling Vinson for an outstanding record and the Boys Basketball Bulldogs for taking home yet another win.
Central Robotics Advances To State The Central Robotics Team won the top two awards at the District League Tournament. Team Sigma won an award for Winning Alliance Captain and the first place Control Award. Team CPU won the first place Inspire Award and Winning Alliance first pick. Both teams are advancing to state. If you see any robotics bulldogs in the hallway, be sure to congratulate them on their success!
Deca Sees Record Numbers At Districts Central’s DECA had a sweeping district competition with 32 state qualifiers and 4 alternates and medalists. There were 16 first place winners, 8 second place winners, and 8 third place winners. Congratulations to these excellent students for their success and advancement to state!
Sterling Vinson poses after the big win. Photo courtesy of the Instagram @pitcentralhs.
Central Robotics teams CPU and Sigma show off their League Tournament winnings. Photo courtesy of Mr. Samuel Shelton.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 3
What are the signs that I might be struggling with my mental health? • Excessive fear, worry or sadness • Unhealthy changes in sleep or eating patterns • Excessive crying • Irritability and acting out • Poor motivation to do chores or school work • Avoiding things you used to find enjoyable • Using alcohol, tobacco or other drugs
What can I do to cope? Take care of your body • Practice mindfulness • Find someone to talk to • Stay connected using technology • Look for connection opportunities • Take up a new hobby • Start a gratitude journal •
Burrell Behavioral Health offers services on site at Central High School.
Learn more or schedule a visit by calling 417-761-5000 or e-mail schoolbasedinfo@burrellcenter.com.
“MOMS FOR LIBERTY” GAINS STEADY POWER IN THE SCHOOL SYSTEM MILES COMO / REPORTER Parents have gained a steady influence in the school system through school board meetings and large parents rights groups. These groups have been advocating for a ban on books with themes of race, sexual orientation, and gender, as well as challenging Critical Race Theory being taught in schools. The most notable parents rights group, Moms For Liberty, with 250 chapters in 42 states, has challenged many books. The Bervard chapter in Florida has challenged over 40 books due to claims that they violate state pornography laws. Many of these books include overarching themes on race, LGBTQ experiences, and inclusion, such as “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson and “This Book Is Gay” by Juno Dawson. This group also has a strong disapproval of “Critical Race Theory” being taught in schools which the group explicitly defines on their website as, “The idea that America is systemically racist/oppressive and this status quo is maintained to sustain a white supremacy dominant culture.” They also make the claim that the ideology uses identity politics to divide people into groups of oppressed vs. privileged. The Moms For Liberty group is supported by major politicians including the governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis. DeSantis lobbied for the Florida Board Of Education to ban Critical Race Theory in public schools statewide and rejected an AP African American History course being implemented in Florida’s high schools. A New Hampshire chapter of Moms For Liberty tweeted that they would put a $500 bounty out on the first educator they could find violating a new state law against teaching vaguely described “divisive
concepts”. When a twitter account replied asking how they could contribute to the bounty, the Moms For Liberty chapter replied by telling them to send a donation and “mark CRT Bounties in the notes”. Moms For Liberty has not only gained a significant influence on the education system through their active book ban attempts and pushes for legislation against “Critical Race Theory”, but they have also made many pushes against classroom discussions surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. This includes the Parental Rights In Education bill in Florida (famously referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay Bill”), which prohibits these discussions between grades K-3, but a member of the Pinellas County Chapter wants to expand the law further. “We are advocating to increase that as far as ages and grades to have it be K-8,” Angela Dubach stated according to New York Daily News. Moms For Liberty also gained quite a bit of attention after one of its members from Miami Dade County spoke with MSNBC, mentioning how they want to see LGBTQ students in separate classrooms. “The kids that do have their, you know, they’re confused, or they are gay or whatnot,” Crystal Alonso told MSNBC, “The way they’re trying to go about it is to make it an open conversation and an open thing in classrooms. But like for example children with autism, Down Syndrome, they have to have special IP meetings with a counselor, they have to be put into separate classrooms.” Moms For Liberty Endorsed over 500 school board candidates in the 2022 elections and 272 of those endorsed candidates won.
They are a rapidly expanding group with over 110,000 members across 42 states and they seek to attend all school board meetings and push for legislation against schools teaching what they call “SEL” (Social Emotional Learning) which which they define as “an educational method that focuses on emotions, identities, and ideological persuasion”. This includes the teaching of Critical Race Theory. As mentioned on momsforliberty.org, the group believes SEL “has systematically transformed education causing massive spending, declining mental health, plummeting proficiency rates, and concerning anti-American rhetoric.” Parent groups including Moms For Liberty have been gaining a major influence in the school system through their book ban attempts as well as their strong disapproval of Critical Race Theory and discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in classrooms. They also have political backing by many politicians including governor of Florida Ron DeSantis and the group expands political power by endorsing many school board candidates.
Jennifer Pippin, president of the Indian River County chapter, attending a campaign event for Jacqueline Rosario’s re-election for school board. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 5
EXPANDING ALLISON LOUGHARY / REPORTER
Due to climate change, weather patterns have been shifting around the globe. This has happened at a rapid rate since the Industrial Revolution. More and more fossil fuels are being burned which releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, which is the primary cause for global warming. A hotter world doesn’t just melt ice caps—which are important because they reflect heat back into space—but also causes an increase in frequency, duration, and strength of bad weather. From droughts to heavy rain and burning hot temperatures to freezing ones, drastic changes in the weather have been seen.
Hungerstein Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Clearing Snow in New York Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Missouri Agriculture Photo courtesy of USDA NRCS
UNITED STATES Extreme weather has been seen across the nation in the past few months. The West Coast experienced a series of ten storms that hit in late December and early January. Over 30 trillion gallons of precipitation, from rain to snow, fell in California, inducing flooding and mudslides that increased recovery costs. The Northeast has been hit with storms that have broken records this winter. On December 24, Buffalo, New York got 22 inches of snow, breaking the 1976 record of 12.6 inches. Power outages and stranded vehicles produced even more problems than the storms had already caused. Half-way through the season, no measurable snow had fallen six hours away in New York City. The hurricane season is from the start of
June to the start of December. 2022 was the first year since 2014 not to have a named storm before the start of the season. It was an unusually quiet start with no tropical storms or hurricanes at all in August, compared to August in 2021 where there were four hurricanes and three tropical storms. The fairly uneventful start to the season did not continue, as two Category 4 hurricanes, Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian, hit in September. Combined costs of the two hurricanes exceeded $115 billion and over 150 people died. Hurricane Ian ranks third in most costly tropical cyclones to hit the United States, with over $110 billion in cost. The season overall experienced 16 storms with total costs being more than $120 billion.
6 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
With droughts and hotter temperatures, wildfires are burning at an even more alarming rate. Data from the National Centers for Environmental Information states that in 2022 there were 66,255 fires and 7,534,403 acres were burned. While the number of fires is fewer than the average between 2000 and 2020, the acres burned was almost 500,000 more than the average. Climate change and drier weather increases the risk and damage of wildfires. The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions stated that, “Climate change enhances the drying of organic matter in forests (the material that burns and spreads wildfire), and has doubled the number of large fires between 1984 and 2015 in the western United States.”
THE EXTREMES
A Look Into Climate Change’s Impact
MISSOURI The Midwest, which includes the states of Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, is an important agricultural region in the United States. This area is known for producing food and animal feed for national and international needs. Climate change can cause an increase in humidity and drenching storms that would cause crops to be ruined and thus cause huge economic problems. Additionally, climate change can
pose a threat to human health, beyond dangerous weather conditions. The Fourth National Climate Assessment states that, “Climate change is expected to worsen existing health conditions and introduce new health threats by increasing the frequency and intensity of poor air quality days, extreme high temperature events, and heavy rainfalls; extended pollen seasons, and modifying the distributions of diseasecarrying pests and insects.”
2019 - 2020 Australian Bushfires - Kangaroo Island, South Australia Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Consequences of the Floodings in Ahrweiler, Germany Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
GLOBAL The United States is not the only place suffering from the effects of climate change. Around the world, countries are experiencing extreme weather as a result of the warming world. Australia faced their worst bushfire season in recorded history from June 2019 to May 2020. Over 7 million acres were burned with over 3,500 homes and 5,800 out buildings destroyed. 34 people died directly from the fires and over 440 died from smoke inhalation. While the fires were started by factors such as lighting, they were worsened by the droughts and hotter temperatures caused by climate change. In early February of 2023, Chile was experiencing wildfires that burned over half a million acres a few days into the disaster.
Europe faced extreme drought in summer of 2022. Water levels fell which impacted towns that had only a few sources of water to begin with, as well as causing shipping costs to rise. As bodies of water drop severely from droughts, history is revealed. “Hungersteine,” German for “hunger stones,” were found. These rocks are carved with the years that the water levels fell dangerously low. In other parts of the world, ancient cities and marks of civilization that had previously been covered in water have been discovered. A 3,400 year old city in Iraq, dinosaur footprints in Texas from 113 million years ago, and sunk German WWII ships were found in Serbia. In contrast to the extreme droughts that have plagued the globe, flooding has been just as prevalent. From June to October 2022, Pakistan experienced heavy rainfall which caused major flooding that is still
impacting the region today. The water is stagnant and contaminated, making it very hazardous to the health of the people living there. The flooding caused approximately $15 billion in both damage and economic losses. Millions of people are homeless and are at risk of poverty. July of 2021 saw floods in Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, and Germany, which was hit the hardest. A year later, there was still evidence of the damage and recovery efforts are still underway. As climate change worsens, the world can expect to see worsening weather conditions. Storms previously labeled “freak” will become all too common. Only by making lasting and impactful environmental changes, can there be attempts to reverse the damage caused.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 7
SWOT: A NASA Satellite Mission NINA MALEGA / REPORTER On the morning of December 16, 2022 NASA launched the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite that was aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The goal of the space mission is to perform the world’s first examination of the earth’s surface water levels on a global scale. The rocket that held SWOT lifted off on Friday morning from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, 170 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The aim of this launch was to have a look at the world’s bodies of water including oceans, lakes, and rivers. The satellite will disclose high resolution measurements in regards to the earth’s height of water in oceans and freshwater. This will provide information on the earth’s topography in immense detail. Ultimately, it will help disclose how bodies of water change over a period of time. The technology within this launch will observe the ocean’s role concerning the climate change crisis. Additionally, it will examine changes in various water resources and the effects of rising seas. This satellite is a collaboration between NASA and the French space agency Centre National d’Études Spatiales. There are also contributions from the UK Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency. This satellite is the first of its kind, with technology that will collect measurements of the earth’s surface water levels, covering 70 percent of the planet. Data will be collected every 21 days at least twice a
day. The collected data will help manage water supplies in drought stricken areas, support climate forecasts, and boost ocean circulation models. The SWOT mission will track how the earth’s water levels will rise and fall over time. The ocean’s features will be observed at the height of ten times the resolution and will measure over a million rivers and lakes across the planet. SWOT was one of the 15 missions that was listed on the 2007 National Research Council Decadal Survey of Earth Science missions, which dictates missions that NASA should uphold within the consecutive decade. One of the major goals of the mission is to detect how the planet’s bodies of water absorb carbon dioxide and atmospheric heat in a process that will help minimize climate change as a whole as well as naturally regulate global temperatures. Oceans have been estimated to absorb 90 percent of the heat that comes from human greenhouse gas emissions. SWOT will ultimately be a three year mission. Within these three years, the data being collected from this mission will aid researchers to identify fluctuations in the earth’s lakes and rivers during major seasonal changes. In a public statement, NASA said that a global inventory of water resources will help scientists better understand where the water is, where it’s coming from, and where it’s going. If all things go as planned within the SWOT mission, the satellite should begin producing data within the next few months.
8 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
NASA SWOT launches from Vandenberg, CA. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Illustration depiction of NASA SWOT satellite. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
The SWOT prelaunch. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
All SPS Schools To Be Upgraded With Bond Issue ANIA KOVACS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF On April 2nd, 2019, Springfield voters approved the Springfield Public Schools bond proposal called Proposition S. More recently, on April 4th, 2023, SPS extended Proposition S to issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $220 million to fund critical school improvements and emphasize school safety. The bond project’s slogan, “Safer students; Stronger schools,” outlines the district’s aim to prioritize security enhancements that will impact every school in the district. The passage of Proposition S in 2019 paved the way for the renovation of Hillcrest High School, new reconstructions of Jarrett Middle School, Boyd Elementary School and Delaware Elementary School, storm shelter expansions for Williams Elementary School and Sunshine Elementary School, and the addition of secure entrances by remodeling 31 schools to have better control access points. The new Proposition S puts even more emphasis on safety in schools, funding security upgrades at all school facilities. It also highlights new construction for Pipkin and Reed middles, renovation of Pershing Middle School, and construction of storm shelters at Cowden, Holland, Mann, Pittman, Watkins, and Wilder elementaries. The storm shelters are built to withstand tornadoes so that students and staff are protected throughout the day. They also allow for more flexibility in physical education classes because the main gym will no longer be repurposed as a lunchroom. Additionally, the improvements will bring a new choice program to Reed Middle School this fall. The Reed Academy of Fine and Performing Arts will become available to sixth grade students at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year and serve as an expansion to the school’s rich history in the fine arts. Altogether, the no-tax rate increase bond issue will fund multiple large-scale projects that total to $220 million. To the right are the projects and their respective costs.
Left to right: Pipkin Middle School, Pershing Middle School, Reed Academy. Courtesy of Springfield News Leader.
PROJECT
DETAILS
EST. COST
Safety and Security Upgrades for All Schools
Protective glass film for groundfloor windows at all schools. Security cameras and door and roof sensors / alarms.
$6,969,000
Pipkin Middle School
New Construction
$53,080,000
Reed Academy
New Construction
$59,480,000
Pershing School
New Construction
$50,420,000
Cowden Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$5,105,000
Holland Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$5,105,000
Mann Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$4,950,000
Pittman Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$5,105,000
Watkins Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$5,105,000
Wilder Elementary
Storm Shelter Gymnasium
$4,950,000
Cost Variance
Allocations for cost variance will be invested to offset inflation of construction, labor, and materials & to fund Phase 3 projects, if possible.
$19,731,000
TOTAL BOND PROPOSAL: $220,000,000
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 9
Meet The New MILES COMO / REPORTER
PHOTO CREDITS: Judy Brunner’s photo courtesy of Brunner for SPS campaign. Shurita Thomas-Tate’s photo courtesy of Shurita Thomas-Tate for School Board campaign. Chad Rollins’ photo courtesy of Chad Rollins for SPS campaign. Landon McCarter’s photo courtesy of Landon McCarter for SPS campaign.
Judy Brunner Judy Brunner is a retired Springfield Public Schools teacher, former principal, and administrator, as well as a co-owner of Edu-Safe and Instructional Solutions Group. These are businesses that provide professional development for school safety, bullying prevention, classroom management, academic engagement, and many other aspects of school. Judy Brunner believes that school safety, engaging families, and supporting educators are three essential pillars of the success of schools. “Feeling safe and being safe are both important components of a school environment if students and staff are to thrive,” Brunner stated on her campaign website.“As community members, we recognize the importance of a safe learning
Shurita Thomas-Tate Shurita Thomas-Tate is a current member of the SPS school board running for reelection. Along with being a current NAACP board member and professor at Missouri State University, she also created the Ujima Language and Literacy program 8 years ago, which is a program seeking to provide more opportunities for children to improve their literacy and develop a passion for reading. "I believe in the power of literacy to unlock a world of possibility. Part of Ujima's success has been parental involvement. When parents are involved, it can do amazing things for a child's confidence,” ThomasTate mentioned on her campaign website. Thomas Tate shows very strong support for the SPS Bond Issue which is a $220
10 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
environment and understand the benefits of providing this to everyone. I promise to provide support and monitor the district’s efforts in these areas.” Brunner also places a strong emphasis on supporting and retaining educators in a massive shortage of educators, as 257 teachers left SPS during the 2021-2022 school year according to Springfield News-Leader. “From teachers who provide instruction in the classroom to secretaries greeting students to the custodian and food service employees, all serve as role models,” Brunner said. “To ensure a quality education for all our students, we need to recruit and retain the very best candidates.”
million dollar issue without a tax increase (putting the bill on the district's debt). It will contribute to the reconstruction of Pipkin Middle School, Pershing K-8 School, Robberson Community School, and Reed Middle School. Tate has worked with a very diverse and less fortunate community of children, so she has a passion for uplifting those voices and promoting equity for students. "I'm working with those who are often marginalized. They come from disadvantaged backgrounds, they are minorities, and they are children with disabilities," Thomas-Tate said. “I bring their voice to the board. I don't think anyone is listening to and addressing them."
School Board Candidates Chad Rollins
Chad Rollins is a pharmacist and facility director for Healthdirect in Ozark and a fitness advocate who has lived in Springfield for over 40 years. He is a 1994 graduate of Glendale High School and has seven kids including two enrolled in college and five enrolled in the SPS district. Rollins was endorsed by Lynn Morris, the founder of Healthdirect who also served seven years as a Republican in the Missouri House of Representatives. As a fitness enthusiast, he ended up making an appearance on the TV series “American Ninja Warrior” and he mentioned in an interview on a KWTO radio show that he watched SPS board meetings while he worked out.
Landon McCarter
Landon Mccarter, a Kickapoo graduate, is the co-founder of Secure Agent Marketing, which is a marketing agency for insurance companies. His father taught in the SPS district for 30 years and his mother volunteered and worked in SPS for 14 years. “As a candidate for the school board, I believe it is important to represent the values and interests of the community. I was raised by teachers and have a strong appreciation for the work they do,” McCarter stated on his campaign website. “I also value the Christian, conservative foundation of our community and plan to represent that voice on the school board.” He also expresses concern over declining ACT and MAP scores which he believes is
"I want to contribute my services to make sure our kids have a good learning environment and that the schools have what they need to be able to do what they need to do for them," Rollins told Springfield NewsLeader. Rollins is striving for personal excellence among students by minimizing classroom distractions, pushing for higher test scores and ultimately getting back to the “fundamentals of education.” “I'm a good critical thinker. I'm good at coming into a room and listening to all the different views.” Rollins said.
largely due to the talented teachers that are quitting on a much larger scale. “As a businessman with experience in building and selling companies, I believe I have the skills and knowledge to effectively serve on the SPS school board. My professional experience has equipped me to handle the responsibilities of a board member, including hiring and evaluating the superintendent, adopting and monitoring the strategic plan, implementing and monitoring policy, and providing fiduciary oversight,” McCarter mentioned. “I have a strong understanding of financial principles and the consequences of mismanagement, which will be valuable in managing the district’s $340,000,000 budget.”
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 11
Four Day School Weeks in Missouri NINA MALEGA / REPORTER When students hear that a three day weekend is coming up, it sounds like the perfect time to spend an extra day sleeping in, doing homework, spending time with friends or family, or to simply just exist. But what if the famous three day weekend that students and faculty have come to enjoy is extended to every week instead of sporadic ones throughout the course of the school year. With a 6-1 vote, the proposition of the four day school week was put in place on December 13, 2022 by the Missouri School Board. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, the Independence School District in Missouri will adopt the four day school week schedule for grades K-12 and will add 35 extra minutes onto each school day. Though Independence is not the first district in Missouri to adopt this new schedule, they are the largest district to do so. Before Independence voted on this new policy, mainly smaller and rural school districts in Missouri had adopted the new schedule. In comparison to these smaller districts, Independence carries roughly 14,000 students. Though school will not be in session on Monday’s anymore, students will still have the opportunity to participate in online learning, clubs, sports, and other various activities. Independence has developed a childcare program for children in grades K-8 entitled, “Kids Safari”. This program will take place on Monday’s and will cost $225 per student per year. There have been various debates over the reasoning behind this newfound change. Some say it has to do with the overall teacher and faculty shortage that is plaguing the state. “I think that a four-day week will certainly be a perk when trying to convince people to
become teachers, or to move to a different district to teach. But I think that in the long run, it is a superficial fix - a Band-Aid rather than a cure. I think truly addressing the teacher shortage will require more systemic changes to the way the American education system functions and the way society perceives the work of teaching,” Courtney Smith-Nelson, Central High mathematics teacher, said. In the smaller rural school districts in Missouri, of which some only house around 50 students, they have been accustomed to a four-day school week because of the lack of teachers and faculty since 2009. With Independence being by far the largest, some wonder if the teacher shortage in the state of Missouri is the cause of this new change. Parents and teachers alike have questions and concerns in regards to this new schedule pertaining to students’ learning and academics.
“I think truly addressing the teacher shortage will require more systemic changes to the way the American education system functions and the way society perceives the work of teaching.”
- Courtney Smith-Nelson “I actually think it could be really beneficial for student learning, especially if the missing days are compensated for by lengthening the school year. A lot of students won’t like to hear that! But lots of research has shown that the “summer
12 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
slide” is a very real thing - students forget less, and retain more learning, when they have more frequent, but shorter, breaks from school than one long summer break. So having a three-day weekend every week and a short summer break may be a good thing for student learning,” Smith-Nelson said. “However, this schedule can cause schools to lose “contact minutes,” which is what we call the time you spend in class. IB, as an example, has requirements for how many contact minutes are achieved in a school year, and shorter weeks may mess with that.” According to research that was concluded in September of 2022, the results of the four-day week are mixed. Based on a 2022 study performed by John N. Thompson and Jason Ward, test scores in schools that went 31.03 hours in their shortened week on average did not change, whereas test scores in schools that went 29.95 hours a week fell in the arts and math. “Any scheduling or logistical system will have its benefits and drawbacks. The four-day week is very attractive to a lot of people for a few reasons: students get an extra day for doing homework, having a job, resting, etc. Teachers get a day to do their lesson planning, grading, and other paperwork stuff that is a part of the job. On the other hand, though, that means there are fewer days in a school year to get through the required curriculum, which can impact special programs (like IB!) that have requirements for how often students are in class,” Smith-Nelson said. The new school week system is different from what is expected, but there are still both foreseeable benefits and drawbacks to this change.
An Interview With Representative Stephanie Hein NED PICKETT / ASSISTANT EDITOR The November 2022 midterms saw Dr. Stephanie Hein (D) overtake incumbent Craig Fishel (R) in a critical close election. Representative Hein represents District 136, which in turn represents a large portion of the Springfield and Greene County area. She is now in Jefferson City and currently serving on the House Budget Committee, a special committee for general administration, and the subcommittee for budget appropriations. “If you like budgets, it’s great, great work. I mean, it really is because you know what you do will impact and this is kind of the scary part--it can impact people negatively. But if you get it right, it can impact people in a very positive way. So it’s important to do
“They don’t need me legislating their curriculum. I’ve developed curriculum, but they don’t need me to develop their curriculum because they are the experts that went to school to develop curriculum.” your homework. And I do my homework,” Representative Hein stated. A Missouri State University professor and administrator, Hein campaigned heavily for better funding for public education, and stated that she wants to increase pay for teachers at public schools. In addition, she stated that she would like to keep politicians away from public school studies and fully in the hands of teachers. “They don’t need me legislating their curriculum. I’ve developed curriculum, but they don’t need me to develop their curriculum because they are the experts
that went to school to develop curriculum. So understanding the nuances of that piece is important as well. So I keep a close eye on those education pieces. Partly because of my own interest, partly because I feel like it’s important. But Springfield also has one of the largest school districts in the state, right? So making sure that we are doing what’s right for that large school district, you know, that it’s important to our state that we get it right.” Hein said. This comes at a time when many schools are having their curriculum and materials removed due to concerns about politics entering the classroom. Even SPS and Central have had difficulties with this in recent months, as Kickapoo teachers were required and Central was required to remove many materials deemed sexually explicit including library books and films included in the IB Film curriculum. In addition to education, Hein also heavily campaigned for improved healthcare. Although Representative Hein stated that improved healthcare was “trickier” for the state legislature than educational business, she also added that the legislature would be “going in and making sure that we’re doing what’s right to fund the Medicaid expansion on a routine basis, and then within that, making sure that our systems that the government contracts with or that we oversee are working efficiently for our members who need those particular services,” and that there are plans to attempt to lower the inflation to allow for people to be able to better afford medicines. Prior to teaching at Missouri State, Dr. Hein was also involved in the hospitality industry, which both shaped her view of Missouri’s business environment and gave her the skills she needed to win her election. “I knew I was not going to be able to raise the type of money that my opponents could raise. Right. So the only way that you can
Photo courtesy of the Hein for Missouri Campaign.
counterbalance that is if you get out and do that one on one contact. So that was the one thing that I could control. I could control getting out and meeting voters and then everything else kind of comes in and supplements. Democrats--that’s one of our key strategies, knocking doors. That’s how we have to win because we’re not going to raise the money that, you know, our opponents can often raise…I know how to talk to people. That was the nature of my background, right? So going to the doors, you know, a lot of people may dread it. I loved it like, ‘Oh, let’s talk, you know, I don’t need to know you well, but let’s talk and let’s see, let’s get your story and let’s hear from you.’ And I enjoyed that. And actually, I got to tell you, I miss that part of it a little bit,” Hein said. The coming months will undoubtedly be important for the fate of public schools, and Hein will certainly be facing a fair bit of opposition in her goals. As such, many eyes will be on her and her colleagues as they prepare for the coming debates and influence the fate of education in Missouri.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 13
UKRAINE: ONE YEAR LATER NATHANIEL HUNTER / REPORTER When Russia first invaded Ukraine in February of 2022, many imagined that the only possible outcome would be a dominant Russian victory. Russia had more manpower, Russia was much bigger, Russia was much wealthier, and Russia was much more prepared. It was an open-and-shut case for many, and posts online were dreading what they saw as Ukraine’s inevitable downfall. A year later and the conversation has shifted. The fear and despair that everyone felt, while not completely gone, is accompanied by a sense of hope that not many had in the beginning. Russia’s onslaught has killed over 100,000 Ukrainians, but Russia has suffered over 100,000 casualties as well. It seems to be that Russia and Ukraine are evenly matched, and a Ukrainian victory that would formerly be regarded as a delusion is now much more plausible. Upon closer inspection, this successful resistance is not as unexpected as it seems at first glance. Shortly after the beginning of the second World War, the Soviet Union invaded its much smaller and much less powerful neighbor, Finland. The Soviet Union had at least over 1,000 more soldiers, 2,000 more tanks, and 3,000 more aircrafts. It should’ve been a complete massacre with the Soviet Union handily claiming victory. But, in a seemingly inimitable miracle, Finland stood strong and pushed back against the Soviet soldiers. The Soviet Union suffered at least 100,000 more casualties than Finland, and three months after the invasion began, it ceased with the signing of the Moscow Peace Treaty. The point of mentioning this war is to show that Ukraine finding success against Russia isn’t as implausible as it may have seemed. The underdog managed to stand up against the superpower to win before, and is currently doing so yet again.
The desire to protect one’s homeland seems to be a special motivation. Ukrainian citizens, against all odds, have withstood Russian siege after siege to keep their country safe. They are backed by practically every other country in the world, with billions of dollars in support from countries such as the United States. Most of all, they have a burning desire to defend their home that is not easily extinguished. This undying determination has not prevented severe damage to Ukraine. Random missiles have leveled buildings, cities such as Kyiv and Lviv are being ravaged by airstrikes, and hundreds of thousands of soldiers and innocent civilians have been killed. Russia also shows no sign of stopping their attack, having recently mobilized 300,000 more troops. The Russian propaganda machine is still working day and night, spinning tales of Russia’s heroic crusade against Ukrainian fascism which they need to defeat. President Putin continues to paint himself as a hero, and the war as a favor. These narratives are, of course, far from the truth. Putin is not a moral paragon and Russia is suffering greatly for his actions. The budget is being run dry by paying for the war, many Western companies have ceased business with Russia, as have some of the most promising people who were to build its future. As skirmishes rage on between Russia and Ukraine for the city of Bakhmut, Russia’s future gets bleaker and Ukraine’s determination grows stronger. The devastation that innocent people have been subjected to cannot be understated, and neither can Putin’s intent to win this war. However, the future where Ukraine manages to finally grasp victory, a future that so many thought was impossible, is a genuine possibility that Ukrainian citizens have and will fight for.
14 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
V O L U M E S of By the end of the first month in the new year, there were more mass shootings than there were days in the month. Gun violence in the United States has been steadily increasing, causing more pain and anxiety in the country in a time when there are so many other issues. In Missouri, an average of 1,288 people die from guns. The state has the fifth highest rate of deaths in the country. The cost to taxpayers is $455.3 million in Missouri, but overall costs reach up to $17.6 billion. This is about three percent of the $557.2 billion total cost in the United States. Data from 2016 to 2020 compiled by EveryStat was broken down by intent. Suicides make up the most of the deaths by firearm at 59% for an average of 23,891 deaths per year. “The US gun suicide rate is nearly 12 times that of other high-income countries.” Homicide is the second highest category making up 38% of firearm deaths with an average of 15,323 deaths per year. “The rate of gun violence in America is staggering: The US gun homicide rate is 26 times that of other high-income countries.” The remaining three percent are deaths by the police, are unintentional, or are undetermined with averages of 547, 492, and 347 deaths per year respectively. This violence is widespread in the nation with 58% of American adults having experienced gun violence at some point in their lives. An estimated three million children a year witness gun violence in the United States. Gun violence has now beat out vehicular deaths as the leading cause of death in children. Although the vast majority of children experience gun violence at home, there are many that face this in another important location. School is often regarded as a refuge from outside struggles for food, warmth, and stability, but there is a growing fear of attending the former safe space. School
shootings have been on the rise in addition to the other types of gun violence. This is creating worry in even the youngest population. As horrible as this is, it is not surprising. The number of school shootings has been increasing at a rapid rate. School shooting incidents, where a firearm is shot on school grounds, has become even more numerous. In the 1950s there were 19, in the 60s there were 20, in the 70s 44, in the 80s there were 66, and in the 90s there were 97. While this in and of itself is alarming, the numbers get larger. In the 2010s, there were 233 cases of guns being fired at schools and in the three years of the current decade, there have been 103. Columbine, Colorado; Ulvade, Texas; Blacksburg, Virginia; these are only a few of the communities that have been impacted by the increasing senseless violence in the educational setting. The effects of any type of shooting are long lasting and debilitating. The Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence (EFSGV) lists the following as being associated with exposure to gun violence: “posttraumatic stress disorder, antisocial behavior, depression, stunted cognitive and emotional development, risky alcohol and substance use, and increased likelihood in engaging in violence.” Although there are resources that can aid those who have been impacted by gun violence, the communities that need them the most are often the ones that have the least amount of access to these supports. Gun violence has been increasing at a very fast rate. According to the EFSGV, this can be attributed to factors such as income inequality and poverty being combined with there being easier access to firearms. Efforts to reduce the increased levels of gun violence will need to include aid for the underlying problems and not solely rely on attempting to reduce access to guns.
VIOLENCE
ALLISON LOUGHARY / REPORTER
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • NEWS • 15
PERUSING THE PREMIERSHIP ALLISON LOUGHARY / REPORTER
WHAT IS PARLIAMENT AND WHERE DOES THE PRIME MINISTER FIT IN? Parliament has three parts: the Crown, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. King Charles III assumed the throne after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died on September 8, 2022. In the House of Lords, the upper house of Parliament, there are currently around 800 sitting members. While “peers” in the House of Lords used to be primarily hereditary positions, they are now by appointment. The nomination must go through the government and the Prime Minister must present them to the Crown. The House of Commons, consisting of 650 Members of Parliament, is the lower house. MPs are elected in each of the constituencies in the United Kingdom. The Prime Minister is typically elected from the MPs in the majority party of the Commons. 10 Downing Street Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Rishi Sunak’s first speech as Prime Minister Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
In the past 16 years, the United Kingdom has seen as many Prime Ministers as the 43 years between 1964 and 2007. Starting in 2007, Gordon Brown served for three years, David Cameron the six years after that, Theresea May for three years, Boris Johnson also for three years, Elizabeth Truss for a little over six weeks, and the incumbent Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has governed for four months so far. Liz Truss took office on September 6, 2022 and was ready to start her economic
plan. However, Queen Elizabeth II died two days later and Ms. Truss’ plan was delayed as both the UK and world mourned. Ms. Truss was able to start moving her agenda along almost two weeks after her premiership began. Her list of actions which included tax cuts—that would be paid for by borrowing—and deregulation was made in an attempt to boost the British Economy. After Brexit, the UK has seen many economic difficulties. However, rather than easing these issues, Ms. Truss’ efforts caused even more. The British pound fell against the United States dollar to the lowest it had been since the 1980s. Among other political problems that couldn’t be agreed upon, Liz Truss resigned after 44 days as Prime Minister. With a nation reeling in turmoil, Rishi Sunak took office five days later on October 25. Now that Mr. Sunak has established himself at 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister, who is he and what are his plans? Mr. Sunak joined the Conservative Party in 2010, but before his political career he worked in the investment industry. In 2015, he was elected as the MP of Richmond of New Yorkshire. He supported the campaign for Britain to exit the European Union. In the 2016 election for a new leader of the Conservative Party, Mr. Sunak supported
16 • NEWS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
Michael Gove and then Theresea May when Gove lost in the second round. From 2018 to 2019 he served as Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Local Government in May’s cabinet. Under Johnson’s cabinet, he served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, 2019 to 2020, and then Chancellor of the Exchequer, from 2020 to 2022. Mr. Sunak gave his Building a Better Future speech on January 4, where he shared his five priorities for 2023. “First, we will halve inflation this year to ease the cost of living and give people financial security. Second, we will grow the economy, creating better-paid jobs and opportunity right across the country. Third, we will make sure our national debt is falling so that we can secure the future of public services. Fourth, NHS [National Health Service] waiting lists will fall and people will get the care they need more quickly. Fifth, we will pass new laws to stop small boats, making sure that if you come to this country illegally, you are detained and swiftly removed,” Mr. Sunak said. The UK and the rest of the world will be watching as Rishi Sunak continues through his premiership. With the issues that this position faces and has had to solve over the past couple years, it will not only be interesting but also important to see how Mr. Sunak handles the pressure.
CENTRAL’S KEY CLUB
Central High School Key Club members volunteer at the Diaper Bank of the Ozarks. Photo courtesy of Rosellen Park.
NATHANIEL HUNTER / REPORTER The Key Club International was founded in Sacramento, California in 1925. Envisioned by adults who were worried about kids engaging in less wholesome school activities, the Key Club was created as a service club meant to build character and leadership skills. Since founding, the Key Club has expanded all across the United States and the world, with branches in 28 countries and over 4,000 paid clubs. Central High School has its very own Key Club, which aims to be a positive influence for all of Springfield and make our school and the Springfield community happier and healthier. The club had been active at Central for many years, and then it took a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the new iteration of Central Key Club is still young, its positive influence on Central can be felt every day. The Key Club manages the CHS Food Pantry, supplying students with food that they might not be able to get anywhere else. As well as volunteering for the Ozarks Food Harvest and various other charities around Springfield, the Key Club contributes to the
community outside of school hours. However, members of the Key Club say that they wish to spread the influence of the club more in the coming year, not wanting to settle or stagnate. Since the club is relatively new to Central again, growth is still a main focus, and the biggest objective for 2023 is to gain more members and help more people. “Personally, I would say that the first year that we [re]founded it we didn’t really do much because it was more on the establishment on the club, so this year we actually got to go out and do more projects and find out more about Springfield and its community,” Elana Hadi, an officer of the Key Club, said. “I’m really happy with the new events we found out about, and the organizations that have now cemented a relationship with us, so I’m very happy with it. I [want to] grow more in 2023, overall, because we so far only have two or three events a month and I [want to] make it more and do more with the club.” “I think, right now, we’re at a good place. Maybe some more volunteer opportunities,
and definitely we’re [going to] push the requirements because we aren’t getting as many people as we’d like for the volunteer projects,” Katie Su, another manager of the Key Club, said. “However, since we have put in requirements I think we’re [going to] get a lot more people.” The Central High School Key Club was only re-established in 2021 and thus continues to focus on making connections in the Springfield community to make more opportunities to help people and grow the club. Central High School students who want to help make a positive impact in the community and help the Key Club grow can talk to Mr. Vaughn, the teacher managing the Key Club, in Room 332 to learn more about what the Key Club does and how they can join to help. The CHS Key Club will continue to provide service to the communities of Central and of Springfield as a whole, with the help of willing participants who want to contribute to the effort of making their school and city better.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • FEATURE • 17
Welcome to the RED KINGDOM EMMARIE LOGAN / COPY EDITOR The National Football League 2022-2023 season has come to an end and this year, the state of Missouri is celebrating a huge win. The Kansas City Chiefs played their way to Superbowl LVII (57), taking on the Philadelphia Eagles at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The Super Bowl is one of the most popular televised events across the nation, with “an impressive 113 million viewers on Sunday (Feb. 12),” according to billboard.com. This was the most views the Super Bowl has had in six years. People worldwide gather to party, eat great food, laugh, and maybe even shed a few tears. Many people had one common opinion including CBS Sports Writer Tom
“I told em’ I love em’ and I’m proud of em’.” - Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid
Fornelli, “I see the Eagles as the more talented team overall...” With fans and professionals doubting the Chiefs’ ability to take home a win, there was a lot of pressure on Chiefs Quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Patrick Mahomes has been playing professional football since 2017 when he was selected as the first-round pick with the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes became the 1st string quarterback in 2018 after Alex Smith was traded to the Washington Commanders. One year later, Mahomes led his team to Super Bowl LIV (54) where he won his first Super Bowl after defeating the San Francisco 49ers. After his glorious Super Bowl LIV win, Mahomes welcomed two children, a girl in 2021 and a boy in 2022, with his wife Brittany Mahomes. Four years after improving his skill and creating a family, Mahomes found himself back in the Super Bowl lineup for Super Bowl LVII. Super Bowl LVII was a game many sports enthusiasts would call “back and forth”. The Chiefs won the coin toss but deferred having the ball, so the Philadelphia Eagles would have the first-half kick-off. After an intense first-half, the Chiefs fell behind 2414 to the Eagles. Being ten points behind may not seem like a lot, but in football even one point can determine the possibility of being able to win. The Chiefs knew what they had to do coming into the second-half; they needed to play harder, faster, and better than the Eagles. Beating the Eagles was a tough challenge, but The Kansas City Chiefs worked together to pull off the win. There were many notable players that Sunday night, but a couple broke records and made history. While the Chiefs did take home the Lombardi Trophy, the Philadelphia Eagles crossed many milestones. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had an outstanding performance. Not only did he tie the
18 • FEATURE • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
Patrick Mahomes; Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback
record for most touchdown runs according to CBS Sports, but he also led his team to a title of “most points scored by a losing team.” Most Super Bowl games are a one-sided beat down, but the Eagles and Chiefs held their own on both sides. Another group of notable players at Super Bowl LVII were Jason and Travis Kelce, the first set of brothers to face each other during a Super Bowl. Super Bowl LVII was one for the books, but for now the Kansas City Chiefs are relishing in the sweet taste of victory. They’ve gone home to celebrate with famiy, but to also start working for next year.
Highlighting Athlete Health MORGAN MARTENS / REPORTER
“When I think of athlete health, I think of my physical health and making sure I’m physically fit. When I think of mental health, I think of my mind, and how I can relax,” Rowen Hart, 10
Following the Damar Hamlin medical emergency, athletes around the world are taking a step back, reflecting on the importance of physical and mental health within their sport. It is important to shed light on how student athletes work with their health through the tough conditions that come along with athletics. Central’s athletes are showing their key strategies to stay healthy mentally and physically. Athlete health is a big part of sports and life in general. There is a misconception about high school athletes, assuming that they don’t know how to properly condition or take care of their bodies during their athletic seasons. Central High School works to show off its athletics, but they do not go into details about how each sport works to keep their health in check. During most sports seasons, the sports have weightlifting practices, conditioning practices, and stretching before and after
each of the teams’ practices. There is a lot more to peak condition than just practice. Peak conditioning also comes from the work each athlete does outside of practice and events. It is all about the mental and physical drive for each athlete to be at their best. “My first step in recovery from tournaments, games, and practice is first to relax my body and my mind. This usually means laying down for a bit and maybe reading or watching TV. This helps me refocus,” Hampton Richards, 10, girls golfer said. Everyone’s first step to recovering their body is different. Each step and routine is individualized for what each athlete needs. Some athletes start with the mental aspect after being drained by focusing on what they are thinking or feeling. But for others, they start with their physical condition and what they can do physically to start feeling relaxed. Recovery is also based on the sport the individual plays. A golfer will not need to do
the same recovery as a basketball player. “Being healthy and running go hand and hand. While everyone’s definition of healthy may differ slightly, you can’t perform at your best if you aren’t getting the proper nutrition and listening to how your body is responding to training. In running, especially, it’s hard to hide injuries because they so obviously affect your performance both in practice and in competitions,” Alex Li, 11, cross country runner said. “The worst thing about not being fully healthy and not working is knowing there are people working, so you just [have to] do what you can and make the most of it,” Jordan Pittman, 10, boys basketball player said. Any sport is a big commitment, but the biggest commitment is the physical and mental drain of a sport. It takes time and effort to complete a full season of a sport. The aspect of recovery determines how dedicated and prepared one is for their sport each day.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • FEATURE • 19
WORKING WHILE IN HIGH SCHOOL TRAVIS DAVISON / REPORTER Having a job while in school isn’t out of the ordinary. Students all over the world maintain a work-life balance, pursuing their studies during the day, and working a shift that night. As high school students get older and take on more responsibilities, a job can be extremely vital. “Employment teaches students about responsibility and can also reinforce what they are learning in school,” states College Board. The College Board is a nonprofit organization formed as the College Entrance Examination Board to expand access to higher education. The impact that working has on a student while attending school is a mixed bag. Students can build an income and independence. The College Board also states that “Students who work more than 15 to 20 hours per week often experience decreased school success.” This shows the negative
side of working while in school. “Nearly 30% of high school students are employed in a job for at least a portion of the school year.” Walden University states. Students working while in high school can teach students life skills that will help them further down their career paths. “Aside from the specific skills of the job, such as making pizzas, I’ve learned many other valuable skills.” Mirisa Esquivel, 12, said. Esquivel works at Domino’s and makes $12.35 an hour. Esquivel has worked at Dominos Pizza for four months, although she has previously worked for about a year. “I have about an hour between school and work to do a few things. I try to just do my schoolwork during school hours.” Esquivel said. Working while in school can make it challenging to complete work, and build meaningful connections with peers. Working during school doesn’t have to be stressful. Students who work flexible
hours are less likely to fall behind and are overall more stress free. Students are also able to take pride in their earning, and buy things they choose. “I choose to work so that I have money to buy things I want that my parents won’t buy for me.” Elaine Klepper, 12, said. Klepper works at Chesterfield Family Center and makes $12.00 an hour. Klepper also has worked for 2 years. Klepper has a flexible work schedule built around academics. “If I’m busy I just work weekends, if I’m not busy I work weekdays,” Klepper said. Maintaining a decent school-work balance is important so that students don’t fall behind. The reason behind a student working is unique. Some students work out of necessity. Some work to support themselves or their family, while others work to support themselves. Some students are not able to just quit, since some depend greatly on the job.
STUDENTS WITH JOBS Hampton Richards - Sophomore
Kelsey Kirchner - Junior
Jakeb Smith - Senior
“I work at Farmer’s Gastropub as a hostess. I’ve worked there for almost a year now. My favorite part about working there is my coworkers. We have good friendships; they are really nice.”
“I work at McAlister’s Deli. I’ve worked there for almost 8 months now. My favorite part about working there is definitely the food (especially the s’mores cookies) and my coworkers.”
“I work at a Hardee’s/Love’s Travel Stop combo in Strafford. As you would assume with a truck stop, you never know who is going to walk through that door. I’ve seen a lot of interesting characters.”
20 • FEATURE • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
LANGUAGES in the LIBRARY LILITH CREEMER / SENIOR REPORTER
In our library we have a few shelves dedicated completely to books in other languages. In fact, just shy of 2 percent of the library is non-English, which totals up to approximately 370 books. Of those books, roughly 250 of them are in Spanish, 70 of them are in French, and the remaining 50 are in various languages. The final breakdown is as follows:
TOTAL BOOKS: 18,000 - 20,000 FOREIGN LANGUAGE: 369
SPANISH: FRENCH: MANDARIN: VIETNAMESE: RUSSIAN: GERMAN: ARABIC: JAPANESE:
251 69 18 10 8 5 4 4
*Data may vary slightly
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • FEATURE • 21
TRAVIS DAVISON / SENIOR REPORTER
The Sticky Note Project
The Central High School art department will be participating in a project called The Sticky Note Project. All art students will participate in this project in one form or another. “The sticky notes are great because they allow students to showcase any of the skills they acquired throughout the semester.” Lead Art teacher, Mrs. Kelly stated. This project will allow students to take risks as well as explore new media. “The small size is great for experimentation.” The process of this project is quite simple; the student will come up with ideas for their sticky note series, sketch their ideas, then move on to the final production. After being put on boards and hung in the hall, the series will then be for sale. The process of purchasing someone’s work is easy. The selling process will begin two weeks before senior graduation. You will purchase a ticket for the art which will be $5 until the buying bonanza on Friday when the notes are $1. The art teachers will collect the money and distribute it to the artists after the sale is closed.
“The cat pen holder is my most iconic work.”
- Emrys Wright, 12
Photo courtesy of Emrys Wright.
22 • FEATURE • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
“Many people forget that photography is an art, but for me it’s my passion. I captured the specific moment of beauty that many overlook, taking in many of the small things in life. Natural elements are some of my favorite pieces to photograph.”
- Finnie Davis, 12
Photo courtesy of Finnie Davis.
“I went through the process of thinking and I decided to go with things that relate to me and school spirit.”
- Kevin Myers, 10
Photo courtesy of Kevin Myers.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • FEATURE • 23
Archery Aims for State NED PICKETT / ASSISTANT EDITOR
Students line up to take a shot during a standard archery practice. Photo courtesy of reporter Allison Loughary.
Central’s archery team has had high hopes in recent years of getting to the state tournament. Although these dreams have not materialized yet, many on the team believe that this year may be their best shot yet. “We definitely have some people that make it to state, although I think we’re really close to going--like the high school team as a team to state, which is really exciting,” Kennedy Orr, 10, stated. “I think we’ve got a strong team. We got some familiar faces coming back, so it was good to see. It was good. You know, whether we make it to state as a team, that’s yet to be decided, they did increase the points needed. So, you know, so we’re something to look for and we’ll just have to see,” Tymon Parker-Reece, 12, added. The evening archery practices appear relatively relaxed, with understandably strict safety measures but a generally playful atmosphere. Several targets align the center of the New Gym, sometimes in a uniform line, sometimes placed at varying distances to challenge the more experienced. Students start rolling in and grabbing equipment at around 7:20, and by 7:35 everyone is shooting. Head coach
and sixth-grade math teacher Audra Uzzel rotates archers in and out of target lanes. One lane consists of a target and a set of arrows, both of which are shared by two archers. Despite the pressure that can come with many school sports, there is little of the stress one might expect to see for a team so close to meeting their largest goal. Although it is quiet, save for the rhythmic thunks of arrows and Coach Uzzel’s occasional whistles or instructions, the archers seem perfectly at home with each other. “I love to watch the middle schoolers shoot. I love to watch my teammates shoot, see how they do. And it’s fun to see, like, who’s going to be up and coming in our team,” Carter Meints, 10, stated. “I just want to have some fun. It’s like it’s honestly relaxing for me to just come out here and shoot. Have some fun,” he added. Although the group has a good dynamic with each other, like any good sports team, there is of course some competition, but it is all in a sportsmanlike manner. “I’m going to beat Carter this year. You can quote that,” Parker-Reece later added, in relation to his friendly rivalry with fellow top scorer Meints.
24 • SPORTS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
Coach Uzzell appears to be rather beloved by the team, and seems determined to help the members improve, regardless of whether the team wins or loses. “In 2021 I went to a coaches clinic to glean all I could about how to make better archers and discovered many of the things I was already doing. What I wasn’t doing I incorporated last season and this season. Aside from what I can do, a lot relies on the archer being extremely self-aware and willing to take the coaches’ feedback, while abandoning your preset notion of what archer’s form you want to use,” Uzzel stated. “Just because it is how you have done it, doesn’t mean it is how it should be done.” Uzzel’s coaching seems to be working. Although not every arrow can hit the bullseye, few stray from the target, and most of them form a neat clutter near the center. Of course, archery is as much a psychological challenge as it is a physical one. “It’s a mental sport. So if you can overcome the mental aspect, then you’re basically there,” Meintz later added. “But if you’re having an off day, it’s just a huge struggle.”
Central High’s Dancing Queens, Young and Sweet! EMMARIE LOGAN / COPY EDITOR
Going to any sports event can be entertaining.The crowd, competition, and staple concession foods are all ingredients that are used to build a great game night. However, there’s more to these game nights --- some of the best memories come from the halftime show. Cheerleaders are often the stars, but that’s not always the case for these halftime shows. Some schools, including Central High School, have a team dedicated to dancing. Central’s Dance Team, also known as the Pomdogs, is a highly-skilled group of dancers who enjoy not only performing, but adding to school spirit. “If one person is lacking then the whole team looks like they are lacking. We all are working towards a common goal of perfecting the dance so we all need to put teamwork as the top priority and be responsible for practicing at home and working…We are very influenced, so putting your day behind you and staying in the present of practice is always encouraged,” Rosellen Park, 12, said. Dancing as a team is not always easy. To make a performance look efficient every member has to be connected. Knowing a dance can be simple, but producing that dance with multiple people is a different story. There has to be hours of practice and plenty of fine-tuning just to make sure every count, step, and rhythm flows the right way. “We have practice twice a week for about two hours. Plus any games we perform at and any extra practices before assemblies,” Eliska Price, 11, said. The more traditional sports teams can often only be seen practicing during their seasons, but the Pomdogs practice yearround as they prepare to perform for the student body and Springfield community. The Pomdogs have even been invited to perform at special events such as the annual
Tournament of Champions in Springfield, MO, and more. “Within the next three to four years, I hope for the Central Dance Team to mainly grow within numbers. There are not many of us on the dance team and it would be great to see more people come and try out for the time,” Megan McNeilis, 11, said. McNeilis, a junior at Central, has been a part of the Pomdogs for three years. Every spring she attends tryouts with many other girls, some familiar some not. “I only did dance for about a year when I was younger so I would say dance team is a new activity for me,” Price said. Dance is a style of art and sport, but it is typically seen as a competitive event rather than a recreational activity. Having a dance team in a high school creates a large opportunity for students who might not have the resources or stability to participate in competitive dance. In addition, students have the chance to potentially find what they’re destined to do. There are dance teams in college and even on the highest professional stages such as the NFL and large companies like the American Ballet Theatre. Having a dance team in high school provides many opportunities, but that’s not the only good thing about the Pomdogs’ dynamic. Competitive dance can come with a lot of pressure, but the less competitive feel of a high school team leaves for more fun and family. “Every summer we attend a dance camp down in Branson and the camp has a night called, “Crazy Night”. They give us a category to dress up for crazy night and each dance team has to choose a theme under that category. This year’s theme was Friday night lights and we had the fun idea to do “Adam Sandler Day”. As you can guess we all dressed up as Adam Sandlers with snapbacks, basketball shorts, and huge
shirts,” Park said. The Central High School Pomdogs have a lot of fun and work even harder. In the near future, they hope to grow, but for now, they are a small group of great dancers making a large impact.
All photos courtesy of Isabel Gamble
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • SPORTS • 25
MADI TAYLOR / COPY EDITOR
The Keys to Becoming a Legend Here at Central there’s a club for everyone. We have bowling, soccer, fishing, DECA, Science Olympiad— the list goes on. For those who play video games, there’s the eSports Team. The team’s name is Central Control and they play the two games currently recognized by the district— Rocket League and League of Legends. Rocket League has tournaments in the fall and League of Legends plays in the spring. For many, the esports team provides them a fun place to play competitively and meet new people. “I’ve been on the team since my freshman year, it’s how I first made friends.” Kahler Sharp, 11, said, “I love the competitive environment for the games.” Sharp plays for the League of Legends team, who’s season started the first week of February. This is the first year that he can play in a real season, as League of Legends was only recently made an official esports game by the district. “In the past it was tournaments with brackets due to some rules about the game and what’s allowed,” Sharp said. Sharp often plays League of Legends in his free time, and he first started playing during COVID. League of Legends is a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (or MOBA). It has the set-up of a real-time strategy game with RPG elements (role-playing game). There’s around 140 champions that users can play as. It was officially released in 2009, and was one of the most popular MOBA games from 2010-2020. While Sharp does enjoy meeting new people through this club, he wishes they had more time or practices to get familiar with each other. “I don’t know many of the new players and I wish that could change,” Sharp said. Central Control also has a Rocket League team. Rocket League is an online multiplayer vehicular soccer game that was first released in 2015 for Windows and PS4. Tymon Parker-Reece, 12, is on this team.
He has been part of Central Control since his sophomore year. “I like being on the esports team because I can meet a lot of people that have similar interests as me,” Parker-Reece said, “It’s also nice to be a part of a team.” Central Control has a sister club, the Nerd Club. It offers games that aren’t played by the esports team-- Overwatch and Valorant. Parker-Reece is not a part of this club, but he did recently compete in a tournament. “We recently won the Overwatch ½ Junior Varsity league before Christmas break,” Parker-Reece recalled. “I don’t have much else to do on the team since I’ll be graduating this year, but I’d say the most excited I was during the school year would be when we won the Overwatch League.” Parker-Reece, like many other Central Control members, wishes there were more games offered. While League of Legends and Rocket League are popular games, they are not played by every video game enjoyer. “I know a lot of people who would join the team if specific games were offered,” Parker-Reece said. The esports club has existed for almost three years. The current coach is Eric Grate. Dalton Sly is the coach of Nerd Club. Central Control was first created in the Spring of 2020. Mr. Grate has been the head coach ever since. “Through COVID we were able to participate in the MOSEF (Missouri Scholastic Esports Federation) seasons and tournaments by playing from home. With the start of the 2022-2023 school year, SPS invested into Esports as an official “team” and we moved up from our club status,” Mr. Grate said. This is the first year that the club is considered an official team, so there’s plenty for the members and coach to look forward to. In the future, Mr. Grate hopes to see more players on the team and to participate in more titles. He’s also looking
26 • SPORTS • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
forward to increasing the team’s repertoire of games. For now, though, he’s just focused on the League of Legends season. “Both our Varsity and JV teams have a very strong roster and I think we have a legitimate chance of pushing to at least State Playoffs, if not Finals,” Mr. Grate said. Mr. Grate is proud of the team’s accomplishments. His favorite so far is the Varsity Rocket League team qualifying for the State Championship in 2021. The team made it to the top 8 out of over 50 competing teams from all over Missouri. Central Control has not been an official team for long, but its effects on the Central community are already apparent. The group offers students an opportunity to develop relationships and engage in a competitive team environment. There’s many who appreciate this team’s creation. “Without eSports, these students might not be able to enjoy the camaraderie of a school team,” Mr. Grate said. “Nothing makes me happier than seeing our members wearing their team jerseys on game day and representing their team with Bulldog P.R.I.D.E.!”
Ben Loughray playing Rocket League, one of Central Control’s official games. Photo by Evan CorneliusWhite.
Waiting for Whataburger MADI TAYLOR / COPY EDITOR A staple part of almost every culture is the food — it’s what brings people together. America is a melting pot of many different cultures. There’s even that traditional American culture that is present in the United States. For a lot of us, when we think of general American food we think greasy burgers and crispy fries. There’s plenty of different places you can think of, from In N’ Out to Mcdonalds, but there’s one place the Texans hold dear in their hearts— Whataburger. The very first Whataburger restaurant opened in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1950. Since then, it has expanded to almost 800 restaurants nationwide. On December 12, 2022, in Republic, Whataburger opened its doors and was very well received. Cars lined around the building and far down the street just to get a taste. Whataburger is well known for its burgers, but that’s not all it has. I decided to check it out to see what all the hype was about. Let’s start off with the chicken tenders. They weren’t the best I’ve ever had, but not the worst either. It was a little lacking in flavor, and the batter wasn’t very good. However, it had a good texture and was well cooked. Chicken tenders rating: 3/5
Of course I had to try the fries, and let me tell you, they were a bit of a letdown. They don’t stay fresh for very long, which isn’t good when you live by Central and have to drive to Republic to get some. At first they were hot and crunchy, but they got cold and mushy pretty quickly. The seasoning was good, but there wasn’t much of it. Fries rating: 2/5
The first sandwich I tried was the avocado bacon burger. I am a huge fan of avocado, so of course I was going to try this. There was a very rich and tasty sauce on it, and the avocado was smooth and creamy. It was evenly spread, and there wasn’t too much or too little of the sauce or avocado. Juicy tomatoes and fresh veggies, with well toasted bread, and, to top it off, the meat was even well seasoned. All around a good sandwich for my fellow avocado lovers. Avocado bacon burger rating: 5/5
Next up, a regular whataburger. I got this without mustard because I’m not a huge fan of mustard. Overall it was decent. The veggies once again tasted fresh, but the cheese wasn’t melted. They used shredded lettuce, which is always a little weird on a burger, and it was kind of messy. The meat was well seasoned, however. Whataburger rating: 4/5
Mountain Dew as the worst soda (in my opinion). However, I did like the Dr. Pepper Shake. It was creamy and cold and it didn’t overwhelm me with a Dr. Pepper flavor. After a while, though, it started to taste too strong, and since it’s such a large cup, I couldn’t finish it. 4/5. The sweet tea was a solid 2.5/5, and the Diet Coke was 3/5. Nothing to write home about, at least. Overall, I’d say Whataburger is a quality restaurant. However, it did take over two hours to get my food, and that’s not including the time it took to get there from Central. In all honesty, I don’t think it’s worth the wait, especially if you have to take it home to Springfield before you can eat it. The lobby wasn’t open yet when I went, which was a bit of a letdown. It’s a decent choice for once-in-a-while food, but I don’t think it’s worth going to every week; however, there is a new location opening up right here in Springfield! Maybe having a restaurant so close will change my mind. For now, I’ll give Whataburger a regular 3/5. I’d go again, but I can live without it. Sorry Texans!
I also wanted to try a bacon cheeseburger, because I like bacon (obviously). It wasn’t overly greasy, but I tried this one with mustard. I feel like the mustard was actually too strong, and it was kind of sweet and tart- once again, weird for a burger. At least the bun wasn’t soggy and the meat wasn’t dry. Bacon cheeseburger rating: 3/5 Whataburger building, courtesy of Whataburger’s website.
Finally, for the drinks. I bought a Dr. Pepper shake, Diet Coke, and a sweet tea. The cup sizes were pretty good and worth the price. Now, as a little precursor, I hate Dr. Pepper. I despise it. It is tied with 28 • OPINION • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
Trans Trials & Tribulations LILITH CREEMER / SENIOR REPORTER To say that life as a transgender person, especially a minor, is hard would be an understatement. In my experience it commonly feels like the whole world is made to tear us apart and force us into submission and detransitioning. Of course, I know that there are plenty of good people out there, but it is easy to forget that when the people in power, such as lawmakers and other government officials, are trying to erase you from existence. At least when you hit 18 you can control your transition mostly on your own, but until that point you are completely at the mercy of your parents. I was lucky enough to be born into an accepting family, but I cannot say the same for many of my friends. Here at Central, things are actually pretty good for transgender students, at least from the experiences of me and my friends at other schools. Bullying is rare, the teachers are very accepting, and the counselors work incredibly hard to make life better for us. All that being said, there are still difficulties that we face in school. To me, the major issue I faced was deadnaming - being called your “deadname,” which is the name given at birth to a transgender person - by the systems. I even gave this a name; automated deadnaming. I had to go through a lot of work to minimize automated deadnaming, but it really did not leave until I got my name legally changed. I have faced 3 separate forms of automated deadnaming when dealing with school things; Canvas account name, Google account name, and school system name. The Canvas account name was easy to change. I just had to talk with a teacher and get the name changed to Lilith. Where things got harder was the Google account and school system names. My Google account would seem to be simple to change. I changed the name behind my personal accounts with little effort. The main issue is that the process of changing the name behind a school account is locked. From my experience, the only way
to have it changed was to get my name in the school system changed. The issue with the name in the school system was simple; it had to match my legal name. I was able to put in a preferred name, but it seemed like almost nobody would see it, especially not substitutes. So there was my issue. My Google account name was locked to the school system name, which was locked to my legal name. The solution was simple; legally change my name. The issue is the amount of effort it took to get that done. Getting my parents to work on the paperwork, getting all the documents together, and parsing all the legalese was generally a long and taxing experience. Of course, it would have been significantly easier if I waited until I turned 18, but I did not even consider that as an option. To me, the most important thing was to be Lilith. After all the work, and a significant amount of waiting, I just simply notified the school and waited. Eventually, the school system and Google account names got updated to match my true and newly legal name. I felt so much joy at that. I had worked so hard to make myself who I am, and now my true name and legal name match. It was happiness like nothing else. Of course, I had to deal with automated deadnaming through this entire experience, but I found a way to minimize it. There is an extension you can get on Google Chrome
and Firefox - possibly more browsers, those are just the browsers that I use - called Deadname Remover. What it does is pretty simple. You submit your deadname and preferred name to it, and the extension scans everything that you see on the screen and visually replaces your deadname with your preferred name. It does not actually change anything in your account settings, just what you see, so others will still see those instances as your deadname on their device. Deadname Remover worked very well and helped me with stress, but it is not perfect. From my experience of using it, it is a little too effective. It does not just look for instances of you, it will change anything that uses your deadname, including other people’s names that match your deadname. I do not know if that has been changed, or if it even could be, but that was how it functioned while I used it. Overall, my experiences at Central have been good. There are a lot of people willing to help, and I was able to construct a wonderful support system. That being said, I still want to push for positive change. For that reason, I am going to vote in the upcoming school board elections. If you want change, no matter in what direction you want to push things, you should vote as well. If you cannot vote, then try just spreading word about your desired candidate. Lilith Creemer is a transgender reporter working on our magazine. She has been working on the journalism staff for three years, two of which as a girl. She constantly strives to improve the situation of and bring awareness to the struggles of the trans population.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • OPINION • 29
THE AI AI Art’s Worrying Advance NATALIE REECE / DIRECTOR OF ART & DESIGN In recent months, there has been a growing trend of creating art with artificial intelligence (AI) software. AI art has been around for many years, but has seen an explosive rise in popularity thanks to TikTok. Everyone from teens to celebrities are using AI art apps to generate images based on text prompts, all at the expense of actual human artists. AI art has been around since the 90s, but it has exploded in popularity as of late thanks to models like Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, and Open AI. These models all take images from across the internet and use them to train their AI to generate content by using text prompts. The images that train AI are more often than not taken without permission or credit given to the artist. Many artists have no knowledge whatsoever that their work is being used to feed AI algorithms. As an artist myself, AI art becoming more popular is alarming and downright insulting. Artists have historically been overworked and underpaid for their work. Despite its crucial role in society, it’s treated as a lesser form of work. Now with AI art on the rise, this problem has only been heightened. AI sets unrealistic expectations for artists. Generated content is cheaply made and generated at fast speeds, faster than any human artis could ever hope to compete with. Even before AI art started to gain traction in the last couple months, many artists struggled with demands of customers. Non-artist often fail to understand that art is a luxury. Some people expect high quality art to be priced extremely low. The price of
art has also stayed stagnant over the years despite the increase in inflation. In a massproduction and high-turn-around society, art is just seen as less valuable. When you pay for art, you’re not only paying for the product, but also the time it takes to create that product as well as the time it took for the artist to hone their skills to that level. AI art completely throws this out of the window, further increasing consumers’ unrealistic expectations of art and of artists. No matter what, everyone deserves to earn a livable wage for their work and artists are no different. We’re already beginning to see the impacts of AI on the art community. A Netflix short film named Dog and Boy has come under fire for using AI algorithms to generate the backgrounds for their film. This use of the algorithm shows just how scary the technology is for real artists. Even in the very early stages of this technology, jobs are already being stolen by AI. It’s not only illustrative artists that are at risk. Writers, filmmakers, photographers, and graphic designers are all threatened. Some may argue that you cannot fight the progression of technology but when it comes to something so innately human, like creative expression, AI will never be able to replicate the skill of human artists. Art is a skill like any other. One that takes years of dedication and practice. Taking all of that work to just combine and morph it into something devoid of any meaning or life takes away everything that makes art special. So the next time you’re thinking about generating
30 • OPINION • SPRING 2023 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
AI art, think about the impact that is having. You may be one person but everyone has an impact. If we could collectively come together and refuse to use this software, we can better support real artists.
AI generated work, “Théâtre D’opéra Spatial,” by Jason Allen wins first prize at the Colorado State Fair in the digital catagory.
Netflix short film ,“The Dog and the Boy,” uses AI to generate its backrounds.
APOCALYPSE ChatGPT Use is on the Rise MADI TAYLOR / COPY EDITOR Technology is nothing new in this modern society. Advanced technology is visible almost anywhere you look and behind almost every scene. While all technology is constantly evolving, there has been a recent spike in AI (artificial intelligence) popularity. Specifically, AI art and chatbots. Chatbots are designed to simulate conversations with users over the internet-- through mobile apps, websites, and even through the phone. One example is ChatGPT, which is also classified as a natural language processor. It is still in its research phase, but its advanced capabilities are what is drawing attention. The company that created ChatGPT is called OpenAI. Greg Brockman is the President and Co-founder, Ilya Sutskever is the Chief Scientist, and Sam Altman is the CEO. They have several investors, including Elon Musk, Microsoft, Reid Hoffman’s foundation, and Khosla Ventures. OpenAI aims to ensure that AGI (artificial general intelligence) benefits all of humanity. They hope to build safe AGI, and ChatGPT is just one of their first works. In early February, they released a subscription plan for ChatGPT (ChatGPT Plus), starting at $20 a month. Subscribers will be given general access to the chatbot, faster response times, and first access to improvements or new features. There will still be free access to ChatGPT for the general audience. ChatGPT has a few characteristics that make it different from other chatbots. It generates its responses in real-time, rather than batch mode like most chatbots. Batch
mode means it is processed in “batches”, or sets of data, rather than immediately. ChatGPT also provides personalized responses, as it can base its responses on the user’s past interactions. This means that ChatGPT is adept with personalized services. Additionally, this chatbot adapts to new information and responds with humanlike language. ChatGPT can be used in a variety of scenarios. Typically, most chatbots are used for customer service-- this can be through answering customer questions or assisting with online shopping (or eCommerce). It can be used as personal assistants, as it can perform functions such as booking travel arrangements and scheduling appointments. Additionally, it can assist with online education. It can supply students with study recommendations and respond to student inquiries. Due to ChatGPT’s advanced software and personalization, it can go a step beyond simple study recommendations. ChatGPT can write essays— whether that’s the whole essay or certain parts of it, such as a beginning and conclusion— and students can take advantage of that. The point of which using AI to write essays becomes cheating is blurry. Some consider it to be academic dishonesty, while others think students should have access to AI software. Regardless of if it’s cheating or not, there’s still the problem of student benefit. It is believed that, by using AI to write, causes a decline in literacy and critical thinking. Additionally, content written by Chat GPT may not be entirely
original. Regardless, for many institutions, rules have not been decided on how to handle technology such as ChatGPT. While students can use ChatGPT to write an essay, it doesn’t always turn out successfully. The chatbot can not perfectly imitate human writing, and hence essays written by it can be recognized as AI on most occasions. Furthermore, while it is an advanced system, it can not perform complex tasks like the human mind can. With the rise of such advanced AI, it’s important for institutions to do some research and decide to what extent students can use AI. The future is now, and chabots such as ChatGPT are only part of it.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Open AI co-founders Greg Brockman and Sam Altman meet with TechCrunch news editor Frederic Lardinois.
CENTRAL HIGH TIMES • SPRING 2023 • OPINION • 31
YOU CAN
CHANGE THE WORLD
The world is in need of young people like you–independent thinkers who have a passion for helping others. After all, you want your life to matter and make a difference. What better way to feed that passion than a career in health care. Cox College has been training young men and women in health care since 1907. We have degree programs in nursing, radiography, and diagnostic imaging. Our small class sizes, helpful and knowlegable faculty, state-of-the-art Clinical Skills and Simulation Center, and access to the largest medical system in Southwest Missouri will help prepare you for a successful career in health care. Come visit us! Schedule a tour and see for yourself. Contact our Admissions recruiters at admissions@coxcollege.edu. College scholarships are available.
CoxCollege.edu 6 • NEWS • WINTER 2022 • CENTRAL HIGH TIMES
NATALIE REECE / DIRECTOR OF ART & DESIGN