The Churchill Observer - February 2023

Montgomery County Public Schools

Winston Churchill High School

11300 Gainsborough Rd.

Potomac, MD 20854

thechurchillobserver.com

GradeView gets shot down, suspect unknown

By Justin Greenzaid Sports Editor

Stressful. When students are asked to describe school in one word, “stressful” comes up frequently. Often experienced by students of all grade levels, this stress is oftentimes built up by grades. Whether it is due to a parent’s expectations or self goals for the future, grades are the leading contributor to the stress of WCHS students.

The way students check their grades can differ in a few ways. However, until the beginning of 2023, most students used the app GradeView to check their grades. GradeView, formerly known as “myMCPSHelper,” was started in October 2017 by Seth Setse who was a student at Sherwood High School at the time. Since then, the app was downloaded over 150,000 times and was used by a large portion of MCPS students. This was until MCPS recently shut down GradeView, starting off the new year poorly.

The app had an extremely simple design and contained an extraordinary feature that is credited as to why the majority of students admired the app: the ability to simulate grades by adding new future grades or changing past grades to preview how that would impact a student’s overall grade. Although simulating grade results could easily be done with a spreadsheet, this feature, along with the expedient

response time to teacher grade input, made stress levels of students all around the county much lower. At the end of the day, knowing the score one or worksheet to meet their overall goal in the class makes it much easier to concentrate.

“GradeView made life much easier and was an app much I relied on until it was gone,” WCHS senior Brendan alleviated a lot of my own stress around grades as knowing what grade I had in a class is vital for choosing what classes I should focus on.”

The alternatives to GradeView include the app which does not contain as many features as the GradeView app did and takes longer to update grades.

“I tried to rely on MCPS’s attempt at a grade book known as StudentVue/Synergy, but the lack of intuitiveness, ability to change or alter grades and fast updates made it very unreliable and inaccurate,” Carnathan said.

Even though GradeView was highly advantageous to students, few people, including administrators and teachers, found the app to be hindering. Some would argue since students could see that assessment of the quarter, they would still maintain Knowing information like this demotivated students to study

and learn the material since they were aware their grade would already be set in stone.

“At times if I knew my I didn’t perform my best on a certain test then I wouldn’t spend as much time studying. However, many times, knowing a certain test grade I needed in order to get the overall grade I was aiming for do my best,” WCHS senior Jamie Calhoun said.

to have access to this type of data. However, the downfall of the app is not just upsetting for students but also for the creator alike.

“It was heart-breaking for me to have to shut down the app. I’d been working on the loved seeing it grow over the years. I’d hoped to be able to expand GradeView even further and wanted my little brother to be able to work on the app with me when he got into High School. I wish the ending wasn’t so abrupt for the students, I had been alive for a few months but in the end, I ran out of options,” GradeView creator Seth Setse, said.

Now, students are beginning to look for new alternatives to replace the main replacement to come is a website, which through methods can be turned into a mobile app, called GradeMelon. GradeMelon has

similar features to GradeView, including the beloved grade inputting feature, but the layout is not quite as simple and user-friendly. Other than this, the only other option that remains is StudentVue, which most students try to avoid due to its lack of necessary features.

“I think [GradeMelon] is a suitable replacement, but I don’t think it compares to the intuitiveness of GradeView,” Carnathan said. “I wish GradeView would just be brought back because it was an extremely useful tool for students and helped to relieve some of the stress associated

with school.”

The event that GradeView becomes unprohibited is very rare, so students will have to move on with just the fond memories of the software. One day, maybe there will be an even greater app than GradeView, but for now the app, which has set the precedent for all other grade managing apps, is the one developed by the one and only Seth Setse.

“It was incredible seeing

students in my classes using the app and watching it expand to the whole county,” Setse said. “Even though GradeView supported many school districts, it was always the MoCo students who were the biggest consumers of the app, and I’m happy to have been able to create something that could help the community I grew up in.”

iDream Churchill strives to commemorate Black history

By Kendyl Groisser Assistant Online Editor

Slavery, segregation and police brutality are all struggles that black Americans have faced throughout history and still face today. Black History Month (BHM) serves as a celebration of black culture and acknowledgment of what they have endured. This year’s Black History Month, themed “Black Resistance,” will highlight the ongoing oppression that African Americans have experienced and how they have been able to resist it.

By living so close to Washington DC, WCHS students have easy access to one of the biggest hotspots for BHM events. Most of these events are meant to raise

Escape

awareness, gain more support for aeral public more knowledge about the black community and what they are going/have gone through. The iDream Churchill club at WCHS has taken action for the month of February by raising awareness for BHM a mural of important historical black

“iDream Churchill is teaming up with the Churchill Minority Scholars Program to create a beaufor Black History Month,” WCHS senior and founder/co-president of the iDream Churchill club, Amanda Kossoff said. “Hung next to the Media Center or the Bulldog lobby, thousands of students will stop by to take a look and learn about modern

The 2023 BHM theme of “Black Resistance” is meant to show how African Americans have been faced with bone-chilling oppression, especially the racial terrorism of lynching, racial pogroms and police killings. This month is meant to give power to the people and create an environment where black Americans feel represented. With this in mind, BHM is only a stepping stone for the progression that the black community should be moving toward in order for them to be treated equally.

“The most important aspect

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2021-22’s Black History Month mural, created by the iDream Churchill Club, was created to spread awareness to WCHS students about African American history.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA KOSSOFF.

Clubs begin to celebrate Black History

or black contributions to society should not end after 28 days,” MCPS senior and former participant of the Black Student Union (BSU) Committee Jade Frenche said. “It should be a continual effort and practice throughout the year. Also, the month should also be focused on anti-Black racism and investigating racial inequity.”

WCHS can still do more to get involved throughout the month of February. Teachers can implement black history lessons into their lesson plans. It is important for students to acknowledge the full history from different points of view as well as theous ways that WCHS can incorporate black history into its community.

“I’ve seen other schools implement a person of the week, which are Black conwriters, leaders, scientists, etc.” Kossoff said. “Workshops on hip-hop history, Scholasticdeveloped 13 cross-curricular activities for teachers and virtually visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture and some examples.”

These are just a few ways WCHS could get more involved. There are even more ways as well including going to DC and participating in various protests, listening in on the different organizations and overall raising awareness for the past events and learning how to ensure injustice like that does not happen again.

“The Black Student Union has a BHM program for Black students to participate in,” Frenche said. “Singing, dancing, spoken words, talent shows and visual arts

are just a few of the opportunities that they can show off to an audience about their spehave even talked about their personal experiences being a black student in an MCPS system.”

MCPS allows their African American students to showcase their talents and be themselves to their community in various different ways. It is important for students to understand more about the modern-day black experience. This makes BHM so important because the more people who are paying attention, the more people are ready and willing to truly understand.

who stood against injustice and created impactful change, including August Wilson, Augusta Savage and Sidney Poitier,” Kossoff said. “After seeing profound discussions in the hallway and a large turnout at MSP’s Cultural Night, I am optimistic about our school’s new welcoming of multiculturalism.”

The iDream Churchill club has made lasting effects on WCHS on how they celebrate BHM. They have been able to show studentstory and how they have impacted the black community. These murals that they have been decorating the hallways with have gained support and increased awareness throughout the WCHS community.

“Overall, BHM is a way to recognize key contributions of African Americans,” Frenche said. “Especially because they have been neglected throughout American history.”

MCPS schools have strived to bring diversity to their communities, especially throughout BHM.

Students are taught only about the bad

The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington DC, built in 2016, has been giving the full history of African Americans as well as allowing the general public to indulge in learning more of their culture. This museum has important African American speakers throughout the month of February for Black History Month and organizes movements throughout DC.

parts of black history in school and what dreadful events African Americans have gone through. They are taught about slavery and segregation and overall mistreatment of the African American community throughout history. However, there is more to black history than just the negatives. During BHM, black students and faculty can come together in order to teach people about the positive parts of black history - the parts that history classes should be teaching.

“BSU and the library at Wootton High School collaborate to highlight black authors,” Frenche said. “Together, we are shedding some light on the good things that African Americans have done throughout history.”

WCHS students and staff alike should, for at least the month of February, try to do

more for the BHM movement. Whether it is helping out with the iDream Churchill mural, implementing a new curriculum that focuses more on Black History than just what is in the textbooks or creating new clubs, WCHS should try to do more for the black community and uplift black voices in the process.

“Churchill has unfortunately frequently made news for acts of hate, prejudice and racism over the last few years,” Kossoff said. “To me, it seemed necessary to create meaningful conversation and educate the Churchill community to hopefully raising awareness about Black History Month.”

Bridge to Wellness connects students to positive mental health

By Ha-Yeon Jeon Features Editor

$8,000,000: the Montgomery County Council’s special appropriations for expanding High School Wellness Centers (HSWCs) into every MCPS high school. Although Montgomery County has attempted a wide variety of programs meant to address students’ mental health in recent years, this particular venture was notable for both its ambition and timeliness.

Although similar in name, these new wellness centers differ from the pre-existing School Based Health and Wellness Centers (SBHWCs), which offer preventive medical health care, sick care and social services. Instead of physical health, they focus more proactively on mental health.

At WCHS, the wellness center, otherwise known as the Bridge to Wellness (BTW) Room, was opened last fall in collaboration with the county-wide BTW program, which aims to expand access to mental health resources and services. The WCHS BTW team is composed of mental health specialist Maria Bruno, care management manager Alex Metral and youth development specialist Dominic Elliott.

“Since the pandemic, there has been a tremendous need for mental health support, especially in the school community,” the BTW team said. “The BTW Program was brought to WCHS to address the mental health needs of students dealing with social-emotional issues such as anxiety, depression and stress.”

WCHS is a prime example of how high academic standards often lead to invisible lacerations, harming students’ social, emotional and mental health. In particular, as throughout the year, such as the end of the and SAT days, stress levels can rise exponentially.

“The most stressful thing about school is the academic competition,” WCHS junior Hanan Ali said. “There is such a toxic culture with the hard classes you are taking and what you got on this or that test. The

Wellness Center has helped so much by being somewhere I can tell no one cares about my grades.”

The largest perk of the room is that it is open all throughout the school day to anyone who needs support. Regardless of when or why they visit, the wellness center strives to be an inviting space where all students are free to be themselves.

“During one of the half days, I wanted a comfortable environment to meet new people and relax,” Ali said. “When I walked in, both the overall vibes and everyone there was so cool; I remember there was an open mic and people were reading out jokes. I’ve gone back so many times since then because I just really love that environment.”

Whereas the other school resources for students are more traditional such as the wellness center tackles students’ stress differently: by meeting them where their interests lay.

“During lunch, we host different activities for students like e-sports tournaments,

topical debates and an open mic where students can perform or listen to others perform,” the team said. “The BTW Room also hosts groups where students can develop skills and get to know their peers better.”

There may be those who question the effectiveness of these activities in addressing mental health; after all, these are arguably unorthodox methods that differ from the school mental health measures that students are used to. However, unconventional does not mean unsuccessful.

“The video games help students to connect with others as well as relax, and the open mic gives students a chance to express themselves and hear peer feedback,” the team said. “It is a wonderful way to build self-esteem.”

In addition to group activities, the members of the team work in their respective areas of expertise to implement specialized resources. As the mental health specialist, Bruno works with both students and families for more targeted supportive counseling. With her goal being to help those with

diverse needs who need more mental health support than they are able to receive through the traditional school support pipeline, she runs various student groups on topics such as coping skills.

As the youth development spetrades.” From help with math to the development of time management skills, he offers support with whatever a student’s individual needs may be. In keeping with the wellness center’s focus on community, he also hosts group activities that foster discussion and teamwork.

Although these two roles focus primarily on helping students directly with their social and emotional well-being, the wellness center’s reach extends beyond that. As the care management manager, Metral works to support students’ external needs outside of the school environment.

“My role is to link students and families to resources within the community,” Metral said. “These resources may include outside mental health providers, clothing or food, housing and rental assistance and assistancetions.”

With the combination of group and individual support, the wellness center has proven to be a valuable asset that supplements the work of the WCHS counselors, psychologist and social worker. The BTW team hopes to continue to draw a wider audience, kind of student that the room’s resources are designed for.

“Since most people at some point in their lives deal with depression, anxiety and stress, we are open to all students who need support,” the team said. “We are [always] available to talk with students about anything that is on their minds and provide guidance.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEAM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE WEBSITE.

PHOTO BY HA-YEON JEON.

From left to right: the three members of the Bridge to Wellness team, Maria Bruno, Alex Metral and Dominic Elliot, stand in front of their “Bridge to Wellness” room poster.

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Teacher of the Month: John Freundel

By Melissa Redlich Features Editor

Teaching Weber’s Law in AP Psychology, Genghis Khan in Honors and feudalism in Medieval History, John Freundel has done it all. However, no matter what curriculum he is teaching, Freundel educates all his students on how to be lifelong learners.tion at McDaniel College, Freundel has his students.

school I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Freundel said. “I was fortunate enough to have a very good string of history teachers from middle school to high rubbing off on me.”

Freundel has been teaching for 16 years, with 10 of these years coming from teaching in Carroll County. There,chology, which he has been teaching ever since.

roll County, the teacher who was Freundel said. “Originally I was no teacher. In my teaching career, it’s the best mistake chology was uninten tional for Freundel, the subject soon became one of his favorite classes to teach because of its connection and ogy because it’s infinitely that in some history classes it’s hard to make the connec tion between the history and the students’ life. However, you learn and use it in your everyday life,” Freundel said. “Being able to understand your own mind, strengths and weaknesses is something so valuable.”

AP Psychology is an ex

where a large number of students take it in their junior or senior year. Many of the students who take thisthing that shows just howdel can have on students’ futures. Freundel also is teaching Honors Modern World History this year. Freundel understands that it is sometimes hard to connect with a history class his students’ attention and further their understanding, he embeds stories and analogies into his lessons.

“I really like it when Mr. Freundel makes fun analogiessouline said. “Whenever he tells a story or makes an analogy, I am able to better understand what we are learning, no matter if it Assouline has had Freundel for two years and has loved his

classes, making him very engaging and easy to listen to.

“Mr. Freundel is very engaging and entertaining and something to look forward to,” Assouline said. “He is also very reasonable and understands that students have other things going on in their life. Therefore he tries to -

but also to create interested and he want students to learn from each of their class’s curriculums, but he mistakes, teachers and community.

that something that they hear in class makes them truly interested in how the world works. Whether that is reading the textbook or going down a hole of watching YouTube videos, I makes them want to learn.”

Annual WCHS January dance is “GLOW” much fun

By Rachel Mattison Online Editor-in-Chief

dents can be seen rushing out of school, eager for the weekend to start. However on Jan. 21, students excitedly not to learn but to instead attend a neon dance.

academic environment, as the cafeteria other. The dance also allowed studentssuch as GLOW shows that they are being.

fer students a social gathering that creates a sense of community while buildVP Angelica Hu said. “It was a way to

While attendees saw the dance as the night a reality. From working with administrators to secure a date to hira small feat.

“It took us about a month and a half hire the vendors and think about how to make the night the best it could be, in addition to advertising it to make sure that we would have a high turn-tions was decorating the cafeteria with on GLOW not only gave students the dance itself to look forward to, but an occasion to celebrate. While the dance itself only lasted three hours, and most it, GLOW created the framework for a

popped against the dark setting as they spent the night having fun with friends.

night full of fun with friends.

“For the weeks before the dance itsaid. “My friends and I all got together to get ready before the dance, and then

Unlike the Homecoming dance where many students only make a their night of festivities, GLOW is considered a dance to actually stay for. This is because some students view matches the vibe better.

“I thought that GLOW was a lot of dark.” lights, while also giving them a socialrienced it.events in general do not get the credit

they deserve. They are a really fun way to create memories and have fun!”

Valentine’s Day is now a mockery of true love

By Clara Young Assistant Observations Editor

Boxes of chocolate, crimson roses and sparkling jewelry disappear from the shelves as anxiety-ridden lovers scurry to purchase all they can afford for their as canoodling partners display their affection shamelessly. The plastering of bright pink hearts and materialistic gestures have invaded the day of romance.

The start of Valentine’s Day is unclear. One of the speculated origins of the holiday is the pagan fertility festival of Lupercalia, which used to be celebrated in Rome from Feb. 13 to 15. The story goes that on the day of the festival, two young priests stepped up to an altar and laughed as their foreheads were sliced and then wiped with milkdrenched wool. These naked men then hide and whipped women to promote fertility. Nothing romantic about that at all. Clearly.

In the sixth century, Pope Gesalius I was said to have replaced the savage festival with a celebration of Saint Valentine. There were two different priests by the name of Valentine, who wereperor Claudius II on Feb. 14 in the third century. These priests were men who cured a child of some sort of malady, then, consequently, were executed.

But, Bollandists, scholars who research saints in Christianity, cannot named Valentine who was executed for illegally marrying couples — the story of Saint Valentine that is so commonly told. Once again, no hint of romance in the holiday of love’s supposed origins.

In fact, Valentine’s Day had no correlation with the celebration of romance until the fourteenth century when a

writer developed a poem relating Saint Valentine to finding mates; in other and there is not much of a reason to celebrate love and relationships on a day that truthfully has no connection to love and relationships.

Valentine’s Day not only lacks a base of romance, but it can impose feelings that are far from happy or romantic. For most adolescents, the idealized high school experience includes a romantic relationship at some point. In reality, only 35 percent of teens between the ages of 13 to 17 have dating experience according to the Pew Research Center. Valentine’s Day emphasizes

the pressure for adolescents to be in a relationship. Teens can exaggerate what relationship on a day dedicated to romance may make them feel inadequate.

Although the pressure to be in a relationship is not unique to teenagers, teenagers are especially vulnerable to peer pressure. In today’s society, people feel share every part of their intimate lives on social media — a custom that quickly went from being a form of appreciation to a portrayal of insecurity. Not only do over-the-top posts on Valentine’s Day get irritating for teens who are not in relationships, but they could also serve

as a painful reminder of their solitude.

According to Time Magazine, 65 percent of teens claimed that social media on Valentine’s Day made them feel stressed or jealous.

Furthermore, Valentine’s Day has lost much of its meaning of love and become a commercially driven holiday. In 2022, according to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent 23.9 billion dollars on Valentine’s Day — a cost that covers everything from expensive dinners to a box of chocolates.

Among most holidays today, the materialistic value of Valentine’s Day has obscured the core message — to celebrate relationships. Yes, the gifts and overspending are meant to appreciate or impress a loved one, but there is no doubt that this spending can be a source of stress and seem insincere. WCHS students have reported that they feel pressured to buy an expensive simply cannot afford. People want to show their loved ones how much they care about them and they feel that to do this, they must spend absurd amounts of money on them.

With the over-the-top pink and red decorations and arrow-shooting cherubs, Valentine’s Day has truly become an eyesore. Of course, it is important to show appreciation toward loved ones, but Valentine’s Day is a fountain of anxiety and pressure rather than merely a celebration of love. The ingenuine, ridiculous and cheesy gifts and gestures are meant to look good rather than authentically show how much someone those not in relationships, the bitterness and resentment that arise on Valentine’s Day just spread more negativity.

At the end of the day, people should be showing genuine appreciation for their partners year-round, rather than having one day dedicated to love.

Jobs give high school students more than just an income

By Julia Levi Assistant Observations Editor

There is no doubt that students at WCHS remain busy both in and out of school. However, what can truly distinguish one student from another is how they spend their time after school. From playing on sports teams to volunteerextracurriculars are endless. One extracurricular that WCHS students should not be leaving out of their schedules is a part-time job.

Although looks can be deceiving, having a part-time job carries a significantly higher value than just a paycheck. Getting employed at some point in high school is an important experience that all students should have before they graduate. A job has the potential to teach students important life lessons surrounding succeeding in work environments and learning the value of a dollar.

Jobs that require little to no prior skills such as working in restaurants, retail, small businesses, babysitting, as well as lifeguarding or working at summer camps during the summer months are fairly easy for WCHS students to obtain.

Having a job offers opportunities to meet new people, make new friends and build relationships with people in the community, thus expanding one’s social circle.

According to a study by the Brookings Institution, in 1979 nearly 60% of teenagers were employed, while today only 35% of high school students are employed for at least a portion of the year. This number is not high enough;

be a simple and straightforward process. The experience can improve one’s maturity and communication skills in order to gain comfortability in future work environments.

least a few hours each week is a reasonable and manageable commitment for any student. Learning to balance school and other extracurriculars with a job can serve as a great way to develop timemanagement skills: an essential step to adulting and thriving in college.

Having experience with handling a

job interview by effectively presenting a resume will give students a necessary foundation for navigating future jobs. It teaches students the importance of maintaining punctuality and adapting to responsibilities in order to maintain their job. In addition, it can provide

people skills in terms of maintaining composure under the pressure of fastpaced environments.

It is undeniable that most high school students rely on their parents and guardians for most of their wants and needs. After completing tasks for a minimum wage job that may be considered boring, unpleasant, or tiring and then receiving a paycheck with tax deductions included, students must make the correspondence between their earnings and the work completed.

Being able to better understand the true value of a dollar can teach the importance of saving and budgeting hardearned money instead of blowing it on unnecessary purchases. Gaining early experiences with money management, setting up a checking and savings account and practicing smart saving can serve high school students well in the long run, especially once they graduate.

Although a job can serve as an important tool for a high school student’s self-development, finding balance is even more crucial. Working too many hours can lead to increased stress levels and little to no time for studying or pursuing other hobbies and interests. If having a job interferes too heavily with the important things in one’s life, it may be a wise decision to step back and focus on the more critical obligations.

Overall, having job experience in high school is extremely valuable for WCHS students. It is something that all students should push themselves to attain before they graduate. Working a job allows students to learn more about themselves and can shape any high school student into a better worker, setting them up for success in future endeavors.

With Valentine’s Day comes ingenuine gifts, disappointments and loneliness. The unrealistic balloon of love it claims to be is quickly popped with the realization of its materialistic qualities and stressinduction.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMTEC PHOTOS FROM CREATIVE COMMONS.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMSEAMAN FROM CREATIVE COMMONS.

The Churchill Observer Staff

Editor-in-Chief

Ryan Weiner

Copy Editor Caitlin Murphy

Online Editor-in-Chief

Rachel Mattison

Online Editor Collin Chen

Vaughn Malamut

Assistant Online Editor Sneha David

Kendyl Groisser

News Editor Jeremy Chung

Assistant News Editor Clara Young

Observations Editor Caroline Harless

Assistant Observations Editor Julia Levi

Opinions Editor Liam Klein

Assistant Opinions Editor Abbas Yazdi

Features Editor

Melissa Redlich

Ha-Yeon Jeon

Assistant Features Editor

Ananya Pandit

Arts Editor

George Chang

Kalena Yee

Sports Editor

Michael Demske

Justin Greenzaid

Social Media Manager

Jack Gans

Paige Tasin

Photo Manager Cecilia Bernstein

Diya Kachoria

Online Photo Manager Leah Kreisler

Advertising and Subscriptions Manager

Brianna Frank

Tafa Nutakor

Promotions Manager

Graeme Finley

Nate Levine

Naomi Wright

Internal Communications Manager

Nataly Behnia

Isabella Ngwana

Adviser

Laura Zitnik

Observer Opinion: Are 8th grade athletes ethical?

Friday night lights are the dream of many young football players as they anxiously await their freshman year of high school. Promising middle school baseball players are good enough, but can only watch their high school team play during the spring. Some middle schoolers are ready for the next stage of their athletic lives, yet are prevented from doing so.

Eighteen states across the country currently allow middle schoolers to play high school sports and Maryland is not one of them. According to the Maryland Public School Secondary Athletic Association (MPSSAA), middle, intermediate and junior high school students are not eligible to compete or practice with high school teams. High school athletes are also only eligible for a maximum of four seasons in any one sport between the ages of 13 and 19.

These limitations are the reasons why Maryland athletics will never be among the likes of their southern counterparts.

The states that allow middle schoolers to participate in high school sports believe in their coaches, trainers and staff to properly train these studentathletes for the next step. High schools that lack interest or talent in certain sports can reof middle school athletes. Giving talented middle schoolers extra time to prepare at the high school level allows them the opportunity to improve and drive up interest in the sport. WCHS does not have this problem, because there is plenty of talent that keeps teams competitive, but it could MCPS schools.

As one of two eighth graders on the JV Churchill fall baseball team in 2018, Christopher Hacopian, a former WCHS student and Wake Forest baseball commit, felt right at home. Hacopion was especially ready for high school baseball as an eighth grader and probably could have been on varsity by the end of the season. He was not allowed to play though and

almost decided to go to private school so he could get the experience he rightly deserved.

Many talented middle schoolers choose the private high school route for increased opportunity and competition.

Private schools are exempt from the MPSSAA rules so there is an incentive to get a headstart. Allowing these athletes to get a taste of high school sports early could encourage them to stay with their public school feeder.

Many have safety concerns for these younger athletes due to the size disparity between middle and high school athletes. While that is a valid concern, many of the elite middle school athletes who would pursue high school athletics are already seeing players of similar size and skill on their club or travel teams. Another possible solution could include height and weight requirements for contact sports like football, basketball and lacrosse.

Trent Seaborn, an eighth grader from Alabaster, Ala -

bama led his team to the Alabama 6A state championship this past fall in one of the most competitive high school football conferences in the country. Considering the fact that he is just under six feet, weighs 170 pounds and has faced similar competition before, it would be unfair to hold him back. While this is obviously not a common occurrence, Maryland from a story like that.

When asking middle school athletes what they are most looking forward to, more likely than not their high school athletic experience would take the top spot. MCPS is notorious for its hardline approach to athletes’ safety and it will stay like that for the foreseethe solutions to those safety concerns are ignored, making it seem like MCPS is holding its athletes back. There are plenty of middle schoolers that have the potential to be special, they just need the chance.

Requirements should change to promote biliteracy

By Ryan Weiner Editor in Chief

Welcome to the start of this article on why world language classes should be required for all four years of high school. Bienvenido al comienzo de este artículo sobre por qué las clases de idiomas extranjeros deberían ser requeridas para todo de los cuatro años de la escuela secundaria. Bienvenue au début de cet article sur les raisons pour lesquelles les cours de langues du monde devraient être obligatoires pendant les quatre années d’ école secondaire.

While it would be a bit outlandish to expect most students to be able to comprehend what that singular sentence meant in all three languages, before graduating high school all students at WCHS should be language that they can make conversation and have simple literacy skills. To achieve this it is imperative that students, unless met with extenuating circumstances, are enrolled in a world language class for all four years of high school.

A study from the University of Washington on Oregon and California residents from a variety of language backgrounds showed that those who spoke multiple languages tended to think quicker and were more accurate when trying to interpret other new languages they did not know. The ability to think accurately in a timely manner is very important for successful students during multiple-choice exams or timed writing exams. Having

more students gain these skills through learning multiple languages throughout all years of high school will help WCHS to have higher-achieving students.

On a similar note, an article from The Washington Post highlighted how students who either grew up in multilingual households or learned multiple languages in school have an easier time getting into elite colleges. As a school that prides itself on the academic prowess and well-roundedness of its students, WCHS must be a part of the change to better prepare students for their next step educationally.

Furthering this, according to a paper published by the United States Department of Education, approximately 56 percent of adults globally speak multiple languages, while only 20 percent of Americans can.

However, that 20 percent has a higher probability of getting a job and making higher wages. If MCPS truly cares about the future success of its students, then they should be recognizing the importance of biliteracy to a greater degree than they currently are.

To maximize the benefits that learning multiple languages has on a young adult, the MCPS system should increase the graduation requirement for world language credits from two to four so that students are taking it for all four years. To make sure this could be applied within WCHS, new courses such as the newly made Spanish 7 should be created to accommodate upperlevel foreign language students who still need to take a world language for all four years.

While many students will -

guage classes required for all four years of high school, there are some that are in circumstances where world language classes may not be as important. Some may be learning English as a second language, some may already be biliterate due to growing up in multilingual households, or some might have learning disabilities making learning multiple That is why with this solution students would be able to discuss their circumstances with a school counselor to become language-exempt.

Additionally, while the creation of new classes can be seen as a burden on the school’s teachers and budget, it also would elevate the world languages subject to that of others that have extensive electives like social studies and science. This is necessary to show the importance that world languages can have on students and legitimizes world languages as a part of the core curriculum.

To conclude, the learning development of languages beyond English for WCHS students is imperative in order to build a well-rounded, high-achieving community that will go on to be successful in both college and the professional world. Therefore, WCHS and the MCPS systems must change the current graduation and credit policies to stress the importance of learning world languages to a greater extent and have students take said classes for more than just a couple of years.

PHOTO BY RYAN WEINER.

Seals of Bilit-

Purr-fect dates with the purr-fect person - fur real!

By Kalena Yee Arts Editor

The air is getting chillier and the sun is setting earlier, meaning one thing: cuffing season, a period during the colder months when people are more inclined to couple up in a romantic relationship. Whether one is in a relationship, trying to muster up the courage to ask out a special someone, or just wanting to have a fun time, here are some creative date ideas that one will not be able to refuse.

prepared with a thinking cap and sense of adventure for this mind stimulating challenge.

Thrifting - Goodwill, Rockville

What is more romantic than reducing one’s environmental footprint? Couples can search for hidden gems and laugh over bizarre items, all for a great deal. Thrifting is proof that one does not have to spend a fortune for a good time.

Cat Cafe

- Crumbs and Whiskers, Georgetown D.C.

Looking for the purrr-fect date? A cat cafe is the way to go. Spend up to 70 minutes snuggled up against these cudenjoying refreshing beverages and delectable desserts. If the cards are played right, warm lattes and loving kittens will not be the only heart-melting factors.

In addition, Crumbs and Whiskers partners with local animal shelters to fascinating felines, so if more than one love interest is found during the date, there is a chance to adopt and take them home. Caution: make sure no one has any cat allergies.

Laser Tag - Shadowland, Gaithersburg

For those in the mood for a little friendly competition and a lot of fun, laser tag is the perfect way to shoot your shot. The objective is to shoot as many people as many times as possible with a laser gun and avoid getting shot by other players, all while running around a glow-in-the-dark obstacle course.

Whether as a team or as one-on-one competitors, couples can enjoy the thrill of their adrenaline rushing and hearts pumping. This test of aim, agility and

stamina will be a truly exhilarating experience for every participant.

Escape Room - Escape Quest, Bethesda

fear. An escape room is a great bonding activity for new couples. Solve puzzles, discover clues and crack codes in order to achieve the overarching goal of escaping a room in under 60 minutes. If one is worried about the date being

a little awkward, Escape Quest offers private games for teams made up of two to 10 people, so feel free to invite a mutual friend or two to ease the tension, or even go on a double date.

With a variety of appealing scenarios to choose from like The Black Widow and The King’s Ransom, an escape room date is not only a captivating experience, but also a fun way to assess and build a couple’s teamwork and compatibility. Be sure to come

To spice it up, there are countless challenges to try and make thrifting a little more exciting. Couples can head other to see how well they really know one another’s fashion taste. Another

If eager to seal the deal, dare to take it a out in public on the next date.

Volunteering

Giving back to the community is a unique way for couples to bond and connect. Volunteering can promote happiness and satisfaction not only in relationships but as an individual. If in the mood for a picnic date or walk in the park, help pick up trash in the park or plant trees. If wanting to stay in for a movie night, try making care packages for veterans while watching the movie. Put a twist on eating out at a restaurant by volunteering at a local soup kitchen and serving those in need. Whether big or small, any way to give back to the community will warm the couple’s hearts, and also the hearts of those around them.

Whether it is at a cat cafe, or just a relaxing movie at home, these unique date ideas are sure to bring a smile to any partner’s face, but keeping it there is up to you!

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRUMBS AND WHISKERS.

Hidden: the potential of the humanities today

By Ananya Pandit Assistant Features Editor

Scratch paper strewn across the desk, eraser remnants scattered and deeply furrowed eyebrows. Should one happen to catch a glimpse through the doorframe of any of the plethora of advanced STEM-related classes offered by WCHS, these are the sights they are likely to see. These courses focus on developing technical skill sets with objective answers that do not challenge thinking beyond law or formula. But for a strong sense of identity, the ability to think analytically and formulate nuanced, holistic viewpoints, courses in the humanities are equally as important, though too often viewed as an inferior choice.

“For students and individuals to reach the level of education and ability that technical professions may need, important skills learned through the humanities need to be in place,” WCHS junior Sadie Herman said.

With the exponential rise in STEMrelated advancements in today’s society, the pressure to make further advancements has been heightened by a near-physiological dependence that individuals have on their devices. After the COVID-19 pandemic, this dependence only deepened. In the past few decades, STEM-associated careers have had a higher moral and societal value due to an amalgamation of monetary and humanitarian impacts. This results in less enrollment in humanities classes.

“The competitive environment at Churchill makes it so everyone feels like they need to take AP or at least

At the WCHS media center, students can enrich themselves with a brand new book discovery or sit at a desk and catch up on homework. For whatever way students need, the media center is the perfect place for students to connect to the WCHS community.

honors classes that are weighted,” Herman said. “Since there are fewer AP or honors English or social studies courses that go beyond graduation requirements, students aren’t incentivized to take them compared to the wider variety of STEM classes.”

As the stigmatization of liberal arts and humanities results from community-wide and generational factors, its and large-scale contributors. According to “Harvard Magazine,” the percentage of bachelor’s in the humanities degrees “at Harvard dropped

from close to 30 percent to about 10 percent.” At the same time, “there are now as many or more computer science majors in the United States as in

“When the humanities are viewed as arbitrary, it hurts our society’s ability to deal with important issues.” WCHS junior Jaina Simon said.

Courses such as English, history or social sciences develop skills in interpreting nuances and understanding subjectivity. They mold more empathetic and conscious global citizens, enabled to chip away at deep-rooted

societal issues that plague our modern world. These skills must be present not only in future policymakers and leaders, but in all community members.

“Pursuing STEM to escape the stigma around the humanities strips communities of new voices and hurts the way we think about and take in the world and its problems,” Simon said.

With troubling topics such as antiSemitism at Walter Johnson High School in November 2022, along with instances of hateful and violent speech appearing with concerning prevalence within the county-wide community, having an educated, well-versed student body is crucial. With a greater understanding of historical reasoningically, the occurrence of such incidents will decrease.

“The humanities equip people with the tools to understand not only the world around them but themselves,” Herman said. “I have always liked how English class lets you express your creativity and thoughts.”

In an age where thirty-second video clips on TikTok or arrays of multi-colored squares on Pinterest manufacture faux-individualism, identity and the ability to craft independent opinions keep one grounded and safe from thedia can lead. Through crafting arguments and weaving together threads of evidence, English classes, especially at WCHS, often challenge students to think for themselves.

“Critical thinking is essential for the betterment of not only our communities but also for the protection of ourselves as we continue to advance into a tech-centered world,” Simon said.

Take a bite of the Culinary Club’s latest craving

By Sneha David Assistant Online Editor

From salads to bowls and wraps, Cava—a Mediterranean fast casual restaurant chain—seems to have every option while remaining healthy and convenient. Cava has locations all across the United States, one being in Cabin John Shopping Center. With its close proximity to WCHS, Cava is a favorite among students. The WCHS Culinary club, created by WCHS junior Sarah Yesnowitz and freshman Carly Yesnowitz, had the co-founder and chef of Cava, Dimitri Moshovitis to come speak to their club about his experience in the industry.

“I wanted Chef Dimitri Moshovitis to talk to club members because he has insight that only someone so successful in the industry could share,” S. Yesnowitz said. “Our club needed someone to not only inspire members but also inform them about the realities of the culinary industry.”

The chain started in 2006, when founders Moshovitis, Ike Grigoropoulos and Ted Xenohristos combined their love for the traditional Mediterranean meals they grew up with with their love for cooking.

rant, a sit down Cava Mezze,” Moshovitis said. “However, we realized there weren’t any healthy fast-casual Mediterranean options. That’s when we started opening the fast-casual Cavas around the United States. I thought there was a need not only for healthy food but for

Moshovitis knew that he wanted to go into the culinary industry at an early age. Growing up, he loved to be around

food and was inspired by his mother. He started working in the industry at age 15.

“I grew up in a household where my mother cooked a lot of food all the time. I loved going out to eat and I loved food,” Moshovitis said. “In general, the way my mother cooked was all natural and food was a family event. When I at a restaurant. I was willing to take any job ever just to be around cooking.”

Moshovitis also wanted WCHS students to understand that expanding and creating a business takes time. In order for Cava to have gotten where it is today, each location had to be successful before they could open new ones.

“We expanded very carefully,” Moshovitis said. “We started with just raising a little bit of money and then with good food and good service we gainedrant was in Bethesda and from there we opened up a second one. We just kept getting rounds of funding to get to the point where we are today.”

However, this chain has had its fair share of trials and tribulations like any business. Moshovitis has had to overcome those failures and learn from his mistakes in order to keep Cava running.

“There has been a lot of failure,” Moshovitis said. “We’ve had to closeing team members. All these failures just make you stronger. From restaurants wrong and learn from our mistakes and just keep going. Looking forward and moving on from your mistakes is just the biggest thing.”

Moshovitis emphasized the fact that even though he has had to overcome

Dimitiri Moshovitis, the chef and co-founder of Cava, came to talk to WCHS’ culinary club about his experience in the culinary industry and the process of opening a business.

obstacles, he cares about his restaurant and has a passion for his job that keeps him going. Without this passion, his business would not keep thriving.

“I learned from listening to him talk that it’s important to follow your passions even if they don’t seem attainable because it’s easier to achieve success if you truly love what you’re doing,” WCHS junior and culinary club member Sareena Haq said.

Cava’s success can be attributed to Moshovitis’ punctuality and diligence. These traits are not only necessary to be successful as a business owner, but also to be successful as a student.

“The number one thing that makes you successful anywhere, even at school, is being on time,” Moshovitis said. “Being on time and working hard. One of the reasons I love being a chef is because I could study until I am 90

and I would still only know 20% of the information out there. So just read and expand your knowledge. My whole day isn’t just practicing but also reading books and learning more.”

One of the takeaways that students got from Moshovitis’ visit is the effort it takes to create a business. It was important for students to see the process behind creating a business, whether it

“Personally, I learned about how Moshovitis and his co-owners found a niche in the industry for fast casual Mediterranean food,” S. Yesnowitz said. “Then, after decades of hard work they opened hundreds of restaurants. My biggest takeaway was the amount of people and years it took to grow as a food chain.”

PHOTO BY SNEHA DAVID.

PHOTO BY ANANYA PANDIT.

By George Chang Arts Editor

WCHS sophomore Riyaan Mendiratta communicates with melodies and harmonies: synths that swirl and oscillate, guitar licks that are paired with fragile vocals, reverb-drenched bass that pulsates to the beat. His unique approach toward music is best exem-

wilt off, and that’s a perfect analogy for new version of yourself, about the chaos that goes along in your mind and how it could be beautiful yet disturbthat in these songs because there are For Mendiratta, music has been an intrinsic part of his life since an early age. Throughout the years, he has been developing and honing his skill and passion for the craft.

I was three years old—I was banging plastic IKEA bowls in my parent’s bedroom while they were sleeping, pretending I was playing the drums. Though they got mad at me, they saw my interest and I started learning piahearing layers of harmonies and mu-

By Paige Tasin Social Media Manager

February is the month with one of the best seasons… award season. It has everything from the Critics Choice, Grammy, Golden Globes and Emmys, to everyone’s favorite movie award for the awards have recently been an-nated for the night’s biggest award and what makes them so noteworthy. Form an opinion about the best picture before the critics choose theirs!

“All Quiet on the Western Front”

Kammerer and Albrecht Schuch. Thisfetched to believe it could win again. -

understand the harsh reality of their situation. The cinematography is stunwhat is considered to be the best war story of all time.

“Avatar: The Way of Water”-

nal became the highest grossing movie following in its footsteps, already passCameron has carried his vision of this story for many years and plans on mak-nology that never fails to amaze audiences. For that reason alone it deserves

sical ideas in my mind that I couldn’t express through the piano. That was when I started experimenting with difMendiratta’s artistic process. Instead of following a rigorous schedule, he prefers to create music as an outlet to relax and process emotions.sic, it would be because there was an earworm melody stuck in my head. I would go into my software and try to transcribe it there, even if it sounded I think it’s more about lyrics. I didn’t pay much attention to them until Ialized that these lyrics are helping people. That’s when I started using them

to help myself and others: whenever

This turn to lyricism has also encouraged Mendiratta to discuss sensitive topics like mental health, death and unrequited love within his work. Subsequently, he also holds the responsibility to explore them in a careful and compassionate manner. for vulnerabilities. There’s a lesson learned in every song, mainly around these universal emotions of the fear of growing up, being wronged and not

and support. The day school ended put into words what I couldn’t say,’

and that truly made my heart warm.

In a way, growth as a person and growth as a musician go hand-in-hand. Mendiratta’s real-life experiences in the past years have resulted in insight-got me, though. It allowed me to develop a sense-of-self. A lot of people see me as the guy who makes music or the guy that made a mistake, and that perception will always be there— people will identify you as something

With Mendiratta’s success as an group of artists, musicians and creators that make up WCHS’ burgeoning art scene.

Churchill artists now. I used to feel alienated or singled-out, but there are so many great artists that are popto a point where anybody can make

Check out his music on Spotify, Apple Music and more under the name RYIN.

“Tár”

This is a movie that follows a mureviews surrounding this movie are those of people that were skeptical that but left wanting more. Therefore, it is

“Top Gun: Maverick”

more attention than anyone anticipated. Most viewers have agreed that the the year and offered a master class in capturing suspense and creating tension.

to be nominated in this category.

“The Banshees of Inisherin”

The movie stars Colin Farrell and decides he no longer wants to be friends with Farrell’s character. The plot line two men arguing if they should talk to each other anymore. However, it is displayed in such a heartbreaking way that one can feel deep emotions over a simple and unpretentious plot. This could win best picture easily as it has a sincere and beautiful message.

“Elvis”

over-the-top production is a recurring extravagance, it might not win best an outstanding performance. He imitated Elvis to an amazing extreme and the actor looked exactly like one of the

most iconic men in music history.

“Everything Everywhere All At Once” -

ceptional of the year. The audience reaction was so overwhelmingly posi-

surreal plots of the year, depicting the multiverse in an entertaining and adventurous way. Michelle Yeoh and Ke causing many viewers to root for them

“The Fabelmans”

This movie is made for cinephiles. As Steven Spielberg’s latest work, it is a semi-autobiographical account of Spielberg’s own life. Considering the lovers, it is not far-fetched to assume they would choose this as their best picture. It also won best picture at the

“Triangle of Sadness” hosting a group of super rich passengers. The ship sinks and leaves them stuck on an island. It stars Charlbi Woody Harrelson.

“Women Talking”

women in a religious colony that are struggling with their faith after facing sexual assaults. The story is based onwith such care and sensitivity that audiences will be deeply affected by its plot and message.

This year has one of the best lineups

and it is amazing that all of these get to be highlighted in such a unique way.serving of the award.

A red-tinted Polaroid

of Riyaan Mendiratta is the album cover for his

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIYAAN MENDIRATTA.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES JEAN. -

“M3GAN” doll-ightfully dances into horror history

By Cecilia Bernstein Photo Manager

Horror movies have started honing in on the creepy doll storyline in the past few years. This is the case with Gerard Johnstone’s “M3GAN”—advertising itself as Gen-Z’s “Child’s Play”— with a new-and-improved M3GAN doll playing the Chucky-like titular antagonist. While this updated villain achieves some HAL-levelportunity to emphasize the horror factor.

“M3GAN,” released on Jan. 6, 2023, follows the story of eight-year-old Cady James (Violet McGraw) who, after the loss of her parents, moves in with her aunt Gemma (Allison Williams). As a roboticist at a toy company, Gemma comes up with a creative idea to help Cady feel better about her loss: she develops a life-like AI doll named M3GAN (Amie Donald and Jenna Davis) who, after “pairing” with Cady, learns everything about Cady and vows to go to great lengths to protect her.

As Cady and M3GAN grow closer, Cady becomes increasingly hesitant to open up to her aunt, instead turning to M3GAN for emotional support. Gemma soon realizes her code allows M3GAN to learn in real-time and starts to suspect that M3GAN is going to unspeakable lengths to protect Cady. In horror movie fashion, this situation quickly goes awry.

The movie attempts to take a comedic approach to the horror genre with fun music and choreographed dance murder scenes. Although these scenes achieve a playful feel, the tonal shift from comedy to horror is somewhat

its fun attitude to subsequent dark and murderous scenes.

While Allison Williams’s performance shines, many side characters’ below-average acting takes attention

away from the scenes and makes them feel tacky. The acting styles overlap and some actors seem confused about whether their performance should While the concept of an AI robot

gaining world-dominating consciousness has been done countless times within the horror genre, “M3GAN” takes a different attitude than other to take over the world, but to simply complete her assigned task of protecting Cady.

In the past few years, production companies have reduced their feature have run three hours may now wrap up in one and a half to two hours. “M3GAN” has a relatively short runtime of 1:42, which is long enough to engage audiences but short enough to avoid unnecessary scenes and dragging.

its $12 million budget several times over with a $45 million global opening. It has thus far earned a 95% rating by Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.7/10 by IMDB.

The movie was advertised in trailers with a signature dance move by M3GAN. While this dance move can only be seen once or twice throughout the movie, it has found some fame on social media apps. This singular dance be the thing that leaves people talking about the movie for months to come.

The character of M3GAN is in the perfect position to join Chucky, as well as Annabelle and Billy, on the shortlist of classic horror movie dolls. Her witty personality, ability to appeal to all ages and memorable lines have garnered her internet popularity and will cement her in horror movie history.

Local black-owned restaurants slay with soul food

By Isabella Ngwana Internal Communications Manager

Regardless of anyone’s ethnicity or socioeconomic status during the late 90’s and early 2000’s, no one could escape Montell Jordan’s hit “This Is How We Do It.” The song dominated pop at weddings, BBQs, bar mitzvahs and especially at any event within the black community.

In the black community across America, having family reunions during the summer and year-round is a reassuring feeling of belonging through food, family and music. The new restaurant, Malia’s Kitchen, located in the a shot at rejuvenating this feeling and putting the “soul” in soul food.

Malia’s Kitchen had its grand open-gomery Mall’s new soul food and seafood restaurant may be in its chrysalis stage; however, its burgeoning success traces back to its owners, Adonis and Katrina Adams, who have 25 years ofrience. This family-owned restaurant is named after the couple’s daughter, Malia. Malia’s Kitchen replaced Lazaro’s Authentic Italian Deli and serves as theing in a diversity of culinary dishes.

The menu offers several soul food staples such as macaroni & cheese, fried chicken, and traditional style cornbread. Still, it goes beyond the traditional hallmark of what would be your regular comfort foods. The new soul food haven offers some unique options: fried lump crab cake combo for $22.00 and the crab mac and cheese combo at $18.00.

The crab mac and cheese has a unique taste and sparks of Old Bay that are tantalizing to your palate. The crab mac and cheese is smothered with oozing cheddar cheese, giving customers a nostalgic taste of their grandma’s cooking. This item would have to be one of the best on the menu. WCHS sophomores Blythe Cook and Brooke Roberts were given the opportunity to try some of the menu items.

“I personally feel like the crab mac and cheese was better than most of the mac and cheeses I’ve tried,” Cook said.

The restaurant offers a variety of options for individuals with plant-based diets, pescetarian diets or meat lovers.

Malia’s Kitchen offers fried whittling or white bread. Though this option may not be their strongest dish on the menu, it is still worth trying.

prepared in a better fashion. It was cold when it arrived and had more breadcrumbs than seasoning.” Roberts said.

After grabbing a bite from Malia‘s Kitchen, customers can take a threeminute walk to the owner’s second location for something sweet: Adonni’s Desserts. Adonni’s Desserts, another black-owned business, offers a range of treats from cookie cups to fried Oreos.

I couldn’t try many of the menu options. But I was happy that I got to try the fudge cake, fried Oreos and funnel fries. The funnel fries had a uniqueness to them that can’t be forgotten,” Roberts said.

A great thing to take away from antomer service. WCHS students should not feel uncomfortable or unwanted at a restaurant. Fortunately, owner Katrina Adams is often at the establishment to give customers a warm welcome at Adonni’s Desserts.

“The owner was very warmhearted towards us. Even though we couldn’t get what we initially wanted, she cheered us up by suggesting plenty more sweet treats.” Cook said.

While celebrating the success of Malia’s kitchen and Adonni’s desserts , one has to recognize that blackowned businesses are far from achieving commercial equality within the African American community. In the state of Maryland, black-owned busiall businesses. Supporting these blackowned businesses will have a halo effect and cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit in those who are enterprising. Malia’s Kitchen shows Montgomery County how soul food is truly done and is a hidden gem to try. Adonni’s desserts is a great place to enjoy a fresh dessert after a long day of parading

“I’m happy to see more blackowned businesses coming to light in Montgomery County considering the difference in black-owned and whiteowned businesses in the county. This gem is truly a place I would revisit again.” Roberts said.

Cady (Violet McGraw) meets the AI doll named M3GAN (Amie Donald and Jenna Davis) that was created by her aunt (Allison Williams) to help her get over the death of her parents. M3GAN was designed to read Cady’s emotions and protect her against any and everything.

PHOTO COURTESY OF @MEETM3GAN ON INSTAGRAM.

lia’s Kitchen located between McDonald’s and Charlie’s Cheesesteaks.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISABELLA NGWANA .

Naomi Wright Promotions Manager

By Jack Gans Social Media Manager

Basketball is not just about scoring points. It is also about everything else one does to help their team win through leadership, communication and of course blocks, assists, and steals. Senior Chelsea Calkins, captain of the WCHS girls basketball team, communicates with her teammates and picks them up when down, while also helping them and herself improve.

Calkins has been on the girls basketball team since started high school basketball

But over the years, she has become a well crafted leader, motivator and hard worker on the team. Her stats also display her as a very well rounded player as she has averaged 14.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5 assists, 4.6 steals and 0.3 blocks per game so far this season.

“I have worked hard to be self assured while taking more shots, and have learned that when I miss a couple, just keep taking them,” Calkins said.

This season, Calkins hopes to improve on driving to the basket and not worry about getting blocked so she can ei-

ther score, get fouled or dish it out to a teammate. The great balance of skilled guards and forwards has been pivotal for them this year as they have the elements of height, strength and skill to be an unstoppable team.

“I am most proud of my rebounding stat because guards my size do not usually get as many rebounds as I do,” Calkins said. “I get the ball over taller and bigger girls than me which ultimately helps us push the ball up theyups.”

The large success from the WCHS girls basketball team indicates that Calkins has had a talented group with her.

“There are four of us who have played together since we were very young (Allison, Miranda, and Dillan). We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and are able to compliment each other well,” Calkins said. “Without them, we would not be where we are today.”

Chelsea and her teammates have gained chemistry over the years and build each othin the sport.

“Chelsea is a very supportive teammate and friend,”

WCHS girls basketball captain Dillan George said. “Her positive attitude is infectious and we all love having her on the team!”

Calkins has been versatile, leading the league in all aspects of the game and stats - the most noble stats being assists and rebounding, one expected and the other not expected being point guard.

“She has stood out by being a leader and consistently being the best in all categories of stats, especially rebounding and assists,” WCHS girls basketball Coach Peter McMahon said. “I have seen her improve the dribble and being a leader for the team. I hope to see her cutting nets and holding the trophy as she continues to lead towards the team’s goals.”

Calkins is excited for the rest of the season, as their overall record is 9-1 and they continue to stay determined to win and dominate their conference.

“I hope the team continues to perform well and win this year,” Calkins said. “Our hard work in and out of practice will translate to my team’s success.”

NIL deals pave the way for WCHS athletes to get paid

By Jeremy Chung News Editor

Name. Image. Likeness. This combination of elements, known as NIL, gives a person the right to control the commercial use of stated by the MPSSAA.

You may have never heard of what NIL deals are, and it is probably because these deals were almost nonexistent two years ago. In the 2021 Supreme Court case, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) versus Alston, the court unanimously ruled against the NCAA, authorizing college athletes to use their NIL for compensation after the NCAA banned the practice. Now, the MPSSAA has expanded this ruling to allow even high school student athletes to accept NIL deals, becoming the 24th state to allow NIL at the high school level.

“I am very happy that they are allowing [NIL deals] as it is long overdue,” WCHS Athletic Director Jesse Smith said. “No athlete should be prevented from making abilities.

ruling, the average NIL transaction for a college athlete was $1,818. Although there are no statistics for high school athletes, it has been proven that they greatthough most are not cashing out on thousand-dollar payouts.

“I think most high school ath-

enough to handle these deals,”

WCHS senior and baseball player

Eric Chen, who currently has a NIL deal with the clothing brand Sleefs, said. “I have been paiding with Sleefs as well as receiving a few free products they sent me such as bracelets and shirts … [and] a discount code others can use for the store.”

Chen has been wearing the

brand for the majority of his time playing baseball and felt it would be exciting to represent their brand. The rules with NILs are simple: illustrate a positive image and consistently promote the brand, or three strikes and you are out.

“It is typical that [those with NILs] would be an athlete with some positive reputation as well as someone who is willing to post

about the brand frequently and get the message across,” Chen said. “Just don’t demote or criticize the brand and give it a bad label. Lastly, you should do it if you’re actually going to promote it; don’t just do it to say you have a NIL and not even put forth any

While rules between the brand and the athlete exist, athletes must also follow the statutes and limitations with administrators such as the MPSSAA if they want to continue showcasing their talent. According to guidelines, students may not endorse illegal products or services for underage individuals or video games. They also cannot wear “a school-based team jersey or otherwise displaying the school’s name, mascot, logo or any other school identifying marks when marketing a NIL product or service,” and much more. Nonetheless, Chen believes these rules should not be too dif-

“There are restrictions and rules you have to follow, but it is nothing that an athlete can’t handle,” Chen said. “Although NIL deals in college, I think that as long as you understand the policies and follow them, no high school athlete should have any issue.”

Although the perks of NIL deals are extensively displayed, many unforeseen consequences could appear soon. With collegiate athletes, many believe they are recklessly using their endorsements and athletes could fall bait

into misleading and illegitimate deals that could damage their reputation or career. Luckily, the MPSSAA hopes to combat these to expressly prohibit NIL collectives within schools, an approach in which high schools or groups form coalitions to provide NIL opportunities to student athletes from that school; this practice has been criticized as unethical and spraying unnecessary amounts of money to athletes.

“I don’t think [this will be any concern for student athletes]. I that are nationally recognized or have a large social media following. Even then, large NIL deals like we hear about at major university football programs or elsewhere will be rare for our local student athletes,” Smith said. “If a student athlete is responsible enough to have an afterschool job, they are responsible enough to have a NIL deal.”

We will not be able to know the the high school sports landscape in the next few years, but it is sure that the formation of NIL deals is a pivotal step forward in giving more freedom to student athletes.

“There can be small risks since you are partnered with a brand and they promote you to their whole audience,” Chen said. “It is more of an honor and responsibility to have a NIL deal; not everyone has the chance to be publicized by a brand and get paid for it, so if you get the opportunity, I

with sports clothing brand Sleefs in a joint Instagram post with the brand.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC CHEN.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA CALKINS.

To start the second half, senior captain Chelsea Calkins pulls up for a jumper against Gaithersburg