Journalism 1 layouts

News by the Bay With Mekenzie McCann

NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE MD

DECEMBER 8, 2020

Dr. Chandler holds interview Sommer Dean from StudentPress about virtual learning in schools Law Center holds interview to inform students on censorship and other issues

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter

On October 6, Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chandler held a meeting in which she addressed questions about virtual learning and other issues in Harford County Public Schools.

Chandler was a teacher for 30 years; she was also a principal. She enjoyed teaching in the classroom and enjoyed being a principal. Chandler stated, “I didn’t want to be the superintendent

chairs, and frequently touched areas.”

As far as requiring vaccines, Chandler said saying, “I would require it, but in the best interest of students, it is a parent or guardians’ choice.”

“I am not sure if requiring covid vaccines is quite right yet.” Chandler says.

She also says that she does not have full control over the vaccine decisions.

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter On October 29, Staff Attorney at Student Press Law Center, Sommer Dean, held a meeting in which she addressed censorship in student articles and high schools.

day, to get censored,” states Dean. A lot of students have won cases because the principal censored them when they were not disrupting the school day, Dean says.

Censorship has been one of the biggest thing on what high school students call SPLC the most on, Dean says.

“It is important to be on the look out for censorship.” states Dean. Rights for journalists come from the first Amendment, and that includes “Student journalists,” Staff Attorney said.

When a principal is reading over an article, they have to think about this. “Is there a reasonable education justification for their censorship?” says Dean. The Staff Attorney comments, “The school has to reasonable fore cost of disruption to censor you.” The principal has to have a very good reason to censorship you, or the student can win the case very easily if they sue.

Dean commented, “At private schools the first Amendment does not control their behavior and their journalism rights.” In public schools, students have more freedom in journalism, compared to students in private schools, says Dean.

Public school officials do not have unlimited authority to censor student media, Dean commented. “The public school principal does have to follow the first Amendment,” states Dean.

For a principal to censor a student article, they have to prove that it is disturbing the school day. “The school has to prove that the speech you are participating in has to distrust the school

If you’re protesting does not interfere with the school day; the principal can not censor you, Dean says. The principal can not censorship you if, your protesting does not disrupt the school day. If the principal does censor you, then you can sue and go to court.

When teachers/professors disappear, students want to write an article about it. However, the principal does not want any bad press about the school, so the principal does not let them run the article. If there is nothing bad in the article, that should not get you censored, then you can sue the school and easily win the case.

Points of view on virtual learning,

Matteo House kindergartner attending virtual learning from his house. He says that he does not enjoy it and would like to be back in the classroom.

of the schools.” Chandler was surprised when asked to become superintendent, and when asked she took the job.

Chandler commented that there are pros and cons to whatever system we use. Teachers will be sanitizing desks, one-way hallways, and having plans for kids that get sick.

“Desks will be six feet apart.” Superintendent commented.

While the students are in school, the desks will be six feet apart, and they have to social distance in hallways.

The school has plans for everything and is trying to keep everyone safe.

Chandler adds, younger students will be coming into school in larger sizes, then middle and high school students.

Most teachers for middle and high school have been teaching online, but with a few students in the classroom. When polled teachers said that 62% of the teachers are comfortable with going back to school, with the plan that is in place now. “50% of students should be back in school by December.”

Adds the Superintendent. She also adds, “Teachers are expected to clean desks,

If a student gets sick, then everyone goes home. The sick student gets the test and if it is negative, everyone returns. If the test is positive, everyone becomes quarantined. Chandler adds that after a question is asked.

Students who were at the interview asked the superintendent questions about going back. When asked about students attending football games she commented, “Immediate family (if that), coaches and athletes at games.” Chandler also added that, there is no social distancing at football games and dances. No dances, but if improving numbers, then the schools can try to recreate dances and other recreational activities.

When students are back in school, they can use the lockers. They will be far enough apart that they will not be near each other, she says. There are also lots of new protocols are added in place. “In the cafeteria, there will be no round tables, and students will be six feet apart.” says Chandler In the bathroom, only one person will be allowed in at a time, and they must wash their hands after every time in the bathrooms.

From two students, parent

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter

On October 9, Emily Johnson, Natalie McCann, and Dee Dee McCann addressed their feelings on virtual learning.

“Itslearning is not user friendly, especially for elementary students” says Dee Dee. She has an elementary, middle, and high school students. Dee states, “I don’t personally use teams meeting, but it has a lot of issues, with not loading and kicking kids out.

Natalie said, “No, because we will never not be wearing masks, and when we sing, it will only be outside.” Natalie is not worried that she will get Covid, while in school. On the other hand, Emily, is worried that she may get Covid, while at school. “Yes, because throughout the week there will be lots of kids there, so it would raise the risk of getting it.” Emily says.

Dee said, “As someone who works from home every day, virtual learning “At some point, I will get the has caused a great Johndeal of stress. I am son stated vaccine, it is new and in 10 trying to work a that, “At some and also mainly years they could find a seri- job point, I will get help a fourth gradthe vaccine, it ous side effect with it. er, with technical is new and in issues and assign~ Emily Johnson 10 years they ments. I’m not getcould find a ting my work comserious side pleted in a timely effect with it. manner, because I If the vaccine am constantly havis mandatory to go back to school, she ing to help with assignments and technical will not be getting one. She says that it is issues.” Dee, has struggled a lot during this new and dangerous. It could have many whole virtual learning experience, says Dee. possible side effects far down the road.

“No, I do not feel that a vaccine is immediately safe. It takes years to know the long-term side effects of a vaccine,” says Dee Dee. Natalie also agrees saying that she will not get the vaccine at the time.

All three interviewees agreed that the vaccine is dangerous and new, so they do not know what will happen down the road.

“The connection has been really bad. Sometimes Its learning has been really bad and being slow.” Natalie stated.

Johnson commented, “I get distracted very easily which then I miss instructions from my teachers.” Virtual learning has been a struggle for Natalie and Johnson both.

News by the Bay With Mekenzie McCann

NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE MD

DECEMBER 8, 2020

Dr. Chandler holds interview Sommer Dean from StudentPress about virtual learning in schools Law Center holds interview to inform students on censorship and other issues

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter

On October 6, Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chandler held a meeting in which she addressed questions about virtual learning and other issues in Harford County Public Schools.

Chandler was a teacher for 30 years; she was also a principal. She enjoyed teaching in the classroom and enjoyed being a principal. Chandler stated, “I didn’t want to be the superintendent

chairs, and frequently touched areas.”

As far as requiring vaccines, Chandler said saying, “I would require it, but in the best interest of students, it is a parent or guardians’ choice.”

“I am not sure if requiring covid vaccines is quite right yet.” Chandler says.

She also says that she does not have full control over the vaccine decisions.

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter On October 29, Staff Attorney at Student Press Law Center, Sommer Dean, held a meeting in which she addressed censorship in student articles and high schools.

day, to get censored,” states Dean. A lot of students have won cases because the principal censored them when they were not disrupting the school day, Dean says.

Censorship has been one of the biggest thing on what high school students call SPLC the most on, Dean says.

“It is important to be on the look out for censorship.” states Dean. Rights for journalists come from the first Amendment, and that includes “Student journalists,” Staff Attorney said.

When a principal is reading over an article, they have to think about this. “Is there a reasonable education justification for their censorship?” says Dean. The Staff Attorney comments, “The school has to reasonable fore cost of disruption to censor you.” The principal has to have a very good reason to censorship you, or the student can win the case very easily if they sue.

Dean commented, “At private schools the first Amendment does not control their behavior and their journalism rights.” In public schools, students have more freedom in journalism, compared to students in private schools, says Dean.

Public school officials do not have unlimited authority to censor student media, Dean commented. “The public school principal does have to follow the first Amendment,” states Dean.

For a principal to censor a student article, they have to prove that it is disturbing the school day. “The school has to prove that the speech you are participating in has to distrust the school

If you’re protesting does not interfere with the school day; the principal can not censor you, Dean says. The principal can not censorship you if, your protesting does not disrupt the school day. If the principal does censor you, then you can sue and go to court.

When teachers/professors disappear, students want to write an article about it. However, the principal does not want any bad press about the school, so the principal does not let them run the article. If there is nothing bad in the article, that should not get you censored, then you can sue the school and easily win the case.

Points of view on virtual learning,

Matteo House kindergartner attending virtual learning from his house. He says that he does not enjoy it and would like to be back in the classroom.

of the schools.” Chandler was surprised when asked to become superintendent, and when asked she took the job.

Chandler commented that there are pros and cons to whatever system we use. Teachers will be sanitizing desks, one-way hallways, and having plans for kids that get sick.

“Desks will be six feet apart.” Superintendent commented.

While the students are in school, the desks will be six feet apart, and they have to social distance in hallways.

The school has plans for everything and is trying to keep everyone safe.

Chandler adds, younger students will be coming into school in larger sizes, then middle and high school students.

Most teachers for middle and high school have been teaching online, but with a few students in the classroom. When polled teachers said that 62% of the teachers are comfortable with going back to school, with the plan that is in place now. “50% of students should be back in school by December.”

Adds the Superintendent. She also adds, “Teachers are expected to clean desks,

If a student gets sick, then everyone goes home. The sick student gets the test and if it is negative, everyone returns. If the test is positive, everyone becomes quarantined. Chandler adds that after a question is asked.

Students who were at the interview asked the superintendent questions about going back. When asked about students attending football games she commented, “Immediate family (if that), coaches and athletes at games.” Chandler also added that, there is no social distancing at football games and dances. No dances, but if improving numbers, then the schools can try to recreate dances and other recreational activities.

When students are back in school, they can use the lockers. They will be far enough apart that they will not be near each other, she says. There are also lots of new protocols are added in place. “In the cafeteria, there will be no round tables, and students will be six feet apart.” says Chandler In the bathroom, only one person will be allowed in at a time, and they must wash their hands after every time in the bathrooms.

From two students, parent

MEKENZIE MCCANN Reporter

On October 9, Emily Johnson, Natalie McCann, and Dee Dee McCann addressed their feelings on virtual learning.

“Itslearning is not user friendly, especially for elementary students” says Dee Dee. She has an elementary, middle, and high school students. Dee states, “I don’t personally use teams meeting, but it has a lot of issues, with not loading and kicking kids out.

Natalie said, “No, because we will never not be wearing masks, and when we sing, it will only be outside.” Natalie is not worried that she will get Covid, while in school. On the other hand, Emily, is worried that she may get Covid, while at school. “Yes, because throughout the week there will be lots of kids there, so it would raise the risk of getting it.” Emily says.

Dee said, “As someone who works from home every day, virtual learning “At some point, I will get the has caused a great Johndeal of stress. I am son stated vaccine, it is new and in 10 trying to work a that, “At some and also mainly years they could find a seri- job point, I will get help a fourth gradthe vaccine, it ous side effect with it. er, with technical is new and in issues and assign~ Emily Johnson 10 years they ments. I’m not getcould find a ting my work comserious side pleted in a timely effect with it. manner, because I If the vaccine am constantly havis mandatory to go back to school, she ing to help with assignments and technical will not be getting one. She says that it is issues.” Dee, has struggled a lot during this new and dangerous. It could have many whole virtual learning experience, says Dee. possible side effects far down the road.

“No, I do not feel that a vaccine is immediately safe. It takes years to know the long-term side effects of a vaccine,” says Dee Dee. Natalie also agrees saying that she will not get the vaccine at the time.

All three interviewees agreed that the vaccine is dangerous and new, so they do not know what will happen down the road.

“The connection has been really bad. Sometimes Its learning has been really bad and being slow.” Natalie stated.

Johnson commented, “I get distracted very easily which then I miss instructions from my teachers.” Virtual learning has been a struggle for Natalie and Johnson both.

The Hellwig Post NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE,

Internet continues to fail; Parent’s concerns are answered

COLE HELLWIG Reporter

WIFI is crashing. Computers and laptops dying. Parents losing their minds. It’s the topic of the school year.

Due to the Covid-19 virus, In-school learning is topic of the students at Harford County Public Schools.

On October 6, Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chandler addressed the plan for online schooling.

Chandler said, “A plan is in progress.” She said that it is currently unknown to the public how exactly Harford County Public Schools plans to go full in-school learning but is working “overtime” for students and staff to find the “best option available.”

Chandler said she predicts kids will be staying virtual for more time compared to in-school learning but realizes that not all parents can afford online schooling and learning.

Chandler hopes parents finds that, “lines and communications are always open during online schools.”

Chandler said she did, however, release more information on the survey given to parents and staff. The surveys show that, “62% of teachers and parents are on board with going back to school in small

MD DECEMBER 4, 2020

“Public School officials do not have unlimited authority to censor student media.”A quote given

by Sommer Dean, who works with answering questions about media law and censorship for young Journalists in and out of the school-system.

Public school officials vs. student journalists

groups,” also releasing information such as, “50% of students will most likely be returned by December.”

COLE HELLWIG

Students will continue to follow guidelines, avoiding frequently touched surfaces and staying six feet apart from other students and staff. But Chandler wants to emphasize that, “Online schooling will be a continued option for online learning.” She wants students to feel comfortable whenever they decide to go to in-school learning, and to not feel “overwhelmed” with decisions that they might not want to take chances with.

Student censorship and media law is an issue for some young Journalists, whether by boundaries given out by principles or the boundaries of the first amendment. Sommer Dean, a graduate from college who works with these young Journalists to help with these issues, giving clarification and simplified explanations to these students to avoid further complications and issues with media law and censorship. The boundaries given

by Dean for journalists and principles are that journalists should be journalists, and principles should stay principles.

Staff in school will be required to sanitize frequently touched surfaces, as well as pushing guidelines given by the county during in-school sessions to students and other coworkers and staff. Chandler believes that the safety of the students is a number one priority and should be as strict and as safe for the students as possible. “The safer, the better it is for our students and staff,” she added.

Chandler will be providing resources for students and staff to assist with online learning aspects and to, “Attempt to do the best to her ability to improve and assist the ones in need, making sure their need are met.”

Reporter

“Documents and resources are available to students.”

Reporter How is your child going back to school? Is the school system keeping you updated? Parents are confused on students going back to in-school learning. So, what do we know for sure about the school system?

The answer lies in parents and students. Christie Hellwig, a parent of two boys, was interviewed on October 9, questioned on the topic of the school system. Christie said, “They will send students back in a staggered mannor,” and hopes for the practice of, “Handwashing, six feet regulations, and other practices.” Though, she is not completely sure of the case of sending students back to school, she hopes they will have the safest option for students and staff.

Another parent of two boys, Maxine Goudy, also had a say on the topic.

Maxine, “Hopes they will re-open only when it is safe to do so,” and “A positive reaction would come upon it,” she added. Maxine hopes that students will stay safe during the reopening, and to

not be pushed too hard on the students by the county.

A student, Aidan Huller, added to the conversation. Aidan cannot think of

A case Dean has worked with was in Texas, a high school student wrote about a senior event being canceled and a book being removed from the school.

This was a case of supreme overreaction of the school officials to cover up the student journalist. She helped simplify the situation of censorship and media law for both the high school student and the staff to resolve the situation.

Adian continues, disagreeing with teachers and students going back to in-school learning, saying, “Because of current health risks at the moment on the situation of the Coronavirus, many dangers can come upon it.”

Christie, Maxine, and Aidan all see problems occurring from in-school learning and the Covid-19 pandemic and want the safest possible route for students and staff.

They cannot exactly put their finger on it and join the cause, jumping on the bandwagon and going back to in-school learning and endangering students and staff.

Students are required to wear masks in the school building.

Students wil not be able to enter the building without a mask or some kind of protection.

any safe ways to send students back to school, adding, “I don’t know how they would do it safely and efficiently.”

Dean says this case was involving censorship and media law, and the reason guides like Dean work with young Journalists and to promote student involvement and change the abuse of censorship and media law.

- Sommer Dean

Virtual learning brings confusion for most parents; Parent involvement required for success in students COLE HELLWIG

An example Supreme Court involving a case of freedom of speech. A student wore a black armband to promote the American involvement in the Vietnam War,” Dean went on, “The students used school funding to print the newspaper unlike the black armbands which were made at home.” The promotion of the American involvement in the Vietnam War was violating the school rules, so the media was taken down and the armbands were removed.

But Christie, Maxine, and Aidan prefer in-school learning as it gives, “Space for social interaction, gets students out of the house and off the screen,” Christie continues, “The more interaction by the teachers and students, the better overall education process and learning.”

Maxine agrees, adding, “In-school activities and opportunities are available to students and staff, giving a more hands-on experience and chances for learning.”

Another case, The Hazelwood Case, was another way the school system tried to abuse the use of media law and censorship, where young Journalists wrote about teen pregnancy, teens running away, and other teen topics.

The school censored the media, saying it was inappropriate for the school system and students while using up school money and time writing the newspaper. Dean said schools must answer the question “Is there...” when making decisions about censorship.

“Documents and resources are available to students, depending on the states the laws of the school newspaper,” Dean emphasizes. These documents and resources provided to students to aid with the media laws and censorship for young Journalists, provided by Dean and Student Press Law Center, (SPLC.) Dean finishes with, “Journalists should be journalists.”

Index Page 5 Science Page 10 Christmas Page 15 Sports

The Scott Post NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE, MARYLAND

DECEMBER 10, 2020

New Superintendent Covid-19 causes schools to go virtual

Chandler discusses upcoming changes MACKENZIE SCOTT Reporter

Covid-19, viruses, learning, school gatherings, student differences. These topics addressed by the superintendent Jennifer Chandler during a virtual meeting with some high school journalism students.

With Virtual learning Chandler said, “My primary concern is always going to be trying to keep the forefront what we are here to do, and that is to educate our children...” With the virtual learning due to the Covid-19 pandemic she is trying to do the best she can. The superintendent states that schools are reopening to small amounts of students. I asked her what she would do with the different grade levels, and she responded that she would help the elementary school students first to help get them back to in person learning. Although going back in person is one option she said “Virtual learning is a long-term option” for the students.

The virus, Covid-19 has affected lots of us, and Chandler says that teachers were planning on going back to the building. A survey said “62% of teachers who were surveyed said they are comfortable coming back in the format that has been established.” She said that she was “excited and nervous” with that statistic She said she feels as parents feel this way as well, exited that students have the opportunity to come back to the building and that the parents that are anxious with the possibility of students getting the virus going to the building. If the teachers did go back, she said a lot more protocols on the cleaning would have to be put into place.

Such as “Teachers are required to clean chairs and desks.” On the topic of Covid-19 she said that with the schools there would be no big school gatherings, like football games, school dances and other school related activities like clubs. With all that is happening the superintendent said, “I won’t be reactive, but I will be active.”

The topic of differences in students’ backgrounds was also discussed.

Chandler stated, “We are going to tackle it head on” She said that education opportunities for teachers called cultural proficiency and adversity training about cultural differences in students was available for teachers to learn about their students cultural differences.

INDEX Go to page 6 - Sports Go to page 10 - Health Go to page 12 - Entertainment Go to page 14 - Local Updates

Students, parent discuss how virtual learning has affected them

MACKENZIE SCOTT Reporter

How has the Covid-19 pandemhealth days” that way the students could disagrees saying that this might be bad ic affected you? The challenge of online have some time for themselves with no idea. “Flu season just started and the panlearning has affected many people all over requirements due. Kaylee Scott, a student demic.” Thus, this might not be the best the world, including parents and stuat HCPS, agreed saying that’s teachers idea she adds. With students going back dents. should not give them work to do on their its was agreed by all interviewee’s that According to Sophie Deibler, a student own time. older students, the middle and high school doing online learning age should go back before at HCPS said, students the elementary school have been struggling a lot aged students. Deibler with the online learning. says that older students Amy Scott a parent of should go back first due to two high school freshthem having more work. man at HCPS had said, “I Amy Scott agrees saying think it’s good that you “The older kids would be can still learn, but I think more compliant with the that you’re missing the Covid-19 protocols.” face to face interaction The virtual aspect of the and the team building.” learning is also causing Lots of students and parproblems. People with ents have been having a bad internet have trouhard time navigating onble with this and screen line learning. According time is through the roof. to Deibler she does not Students and teachers believe online learning is are looking at screens a good option compared four to five hours a day to in person because “you Covid-19 or the coronavirus pandemic Picture relased March not including screen time don’t get the help you 2020 when the pandemic first had citizens put into quarentine outside of class. Deibler need and you don’t get says, that this is harmful the one on one with your to our eyes because we are teacher whenever you need it.”

With the pandemic still being around looking at screens every day. With this Along with not getting the face to face small groups of students have been going amount of screen time students are findthe constantly being online has affected back. Deibler says that she likes the idea ing the 10-minute breaks in between the the mental health of students. Amy Scott because you get to be in the building. Amy 70-minute classes not long enough. Amy believes that they should have more reScott agrees saying the students going Scott and Deibler says that a 15-minute sources valuable for families about stuback should have a 504 or IEP, need more break would be better. Deibler say 15 mindent’s mental health. “That instead of hands-on learning, bad internet, or parents utes because “That way if kids have to do sick days they should have some mental that work during the day. But Kaylee Scott something that have more time.”

Censorship in the school systems: How Student Press Law Center is dealing with censorship MACKENZIE SCOTT Reporter

“People are depending on us journalist to be that social watchdog for them, journalists should be journalists.” says Sommer Dean a staff attorney for Student Press Law Center as she talks about the struggles of getting your story out there with educational censorship in the school systems.

Some see “Censorship as unconstitutional,” says Dean as she talks about cases of censorship.

Sommer Dean a woman who works on journalism censorship cases with high school and university students, talks about how students are trying to get stories and opinions out there.

wearing black arm bands to school in protest. The school’s principal had asked the group to take off the arm bands and they did, but the case had escalated quickly, as the school was soon sued.

In the case of Hazelwood vs Kuhlmeier, the school was sued due to the principal not wanting the students to publish an ‘inappropriate’ article. After this

Although censorship has gotten in the way of school’s articles being published in public schools, this however, had an edge over private high schools and colleges. “Public school students have more of an edge writing due to the first amendment.”

She said before this is because private schools are privately funded so they are more strictly censored. But they are protected by the first amendment because they cannot interfere with some things.

“Public school students have more of an edge writing due to the first amendment.”

Not only by articles but by other ways, such as the Tinker vs Des Moines case. These students are trying to get their voices heard but sometimes censorship gets in the way of their stories.

Dean talks about some cases of censorship, such as Tinker vs Des Moines where students were reprimanded for

-Sommer Dean happened though the, “Hazelwood case does not create unlimited license to censor. It only applies to schools sponsored speech and it does not qualify as public forums,” Dean said.

Some censorship that have happened are caused by unreasonable censorship. Dean says that it is “problematic” that some sport coach’s censor their players social media content and/or presence.

It is hard for coaches and school officials to censor their students and players content because some cases there are just some ridiculous things that happen, and the censorship is just unnecessary. She says, “Is there a reasonable educational justification for their censorship?”

Corona taking over people’s lives

School systems getting sued by students

Everyone having their own thoughts

NOEL BAILEY Reporter

NOEL BAILEY Reporter

A former journalist student named Sommer that now works at Student Press Law Center says she gets a lot of cases of students getting their articles censored and how journalists are important.

Three everyday people had different things to say about corona virus and how it has been affecting school. One of them a mom named Kerri Bailey, seventh grader Lauralei Hollar, and tenth grader Joshua Berman.

“I know people will be stupid and not wear their masks so people will definitely get sick” stated Hollar when asked if she thought it was safe to go back to school.

She believes that no one is going to follow the rules and thinks were safer doing online school.

Kerri Bailey believes that it depends on how things with corona virus are going and how the school is dealing with everything if that can take students back. “many studies show that younger people are at a very low risks to get corona virus and this information is from Europe were schools are already open and have been open” this what Bailey stated.

Joshua Berman goes to Curly High School and there school does “first half of the alphabet goes Monday and Tuesdays while the second half of the alphabet goes Thursdays and Fridays while Wednesdays is online for everyone” He said that seems to be working well for his school so thinks other schools should try it.

When asked what types of safety procedures should be taken to be able to go back to school, they said the mandatory

procedures that we have been taking all during the quarantine.

Mental health of students and teenagers is always something people consider about their children and worry about Bailey told us. “Suicide rates are up, substance abuse is up, reported depression is up, young people need routines into there school routines” she thinks that children need to get back into there regular school routines then the rates will go down.

“Some people with ADHD that can’t sit that long have rough time with online school” Lauralei told me. People with that disorder then have a hard time looking at a computer all day and hard time focusing on computers. “people will procrastinate will have all this weight on their shoulders will have to much stress about school” She also stated.

“People depend on us as journalists that we are ‘watchdogs’” Sommer told us. Journalists are always on look out for things to write about and people to interview since its our jobs to get the facts and information out to people Summer stated.

The rights of student journalist have been from the first amendment for people in public schools. People in private schools have their administers in charge of what gets censored and “doesn’t have as many rights as public schools” and “public schools have bit of an edge over private

The tinker case is a very famous case that happened against students and the school system in 1969. The students won the case. “just because you’re in school doesn’t mean that your first amendment rights go away” Sommer told us.

One thing that will never go away since its used to censor everyday life is “Unprotected speech” she explained that the schools can shut things down if that have are unlawful and physically disrupt the he school day. “the school has to have a reasonable reason” Sommer said.

“One thing that students think is true is that what you post on social media your school can make you take it down if they don’t like it which isn’t true” Sommer told us. If they do it for anyone which is people on sports teams, but they hold them to “higher standards”

One of the reasons a lot of schools censor things out she said was because “they don’t want there school to look like that they have a certain way they want there school to look” different schools have different things on how they want there school to look but they ultimately cant censor it just because they don’t want there school to “look bad”.

School sports should be happening Bailey believes “club and recreational sports have been going without any problems then why shouldn’t school sports be happening” “My school with organizing everything has done a good job I don’t know how else they could have done it” Berman response to if their schools could have organized things better. “they should have planned it for the fall back in March instead of august to make it easier for families” Bailey stated.

schools” Sommer explained.

Picture of Fred and George Weasley. This is from Harry Potter and the order of the phoenix.

If the case goes all the way up to the supreme court which quite a few cases do the court can say, “the censor was ‘unreasonable’ for the principle to censor” Sommer explained.

New superintendent at North Harford decides to

Take charge right away in her new spot NOEL BAILEY Reporter

“Never wanted to originally to be superintendent” says the new superintendent Dr. Chandler. That was said October 6.

Dr. Jennifer Chandler just recently took this position, and she says she is not planning on moving up more positions in the academic world. She taught for 30 years before she took this job. “I never saw myself taking this position, but I took it after all” she stated.

Dr. Chandler addressed how everyone is wondering how it is going to be when we go back to school. “Health wise we are going to following the regular procedures that have been addressed by the health departments” She also said the school systems will always try their best to keep everything clean but “they can’t always keep everything 110% clean” She said it is important not to be “not reactive but active” Especially for the

people who work for the school systems and how they are handling everything.

Dr. Chandler also stated that “62%” of teachers feel comfortable or ok with the idea of going back to school in person.

The students took a “racial survey” and the use of racial language in classrooms. Dr. Chandler says that “academic The survey revealed dishonesty is that “35%” racial huge problem “62% of teachers langue is used in right now” feel comfortable classrooms. Another Especially with question addressed the students or ok with the the issue of diversity being home and idea of going in school, which on their own was “fairly neutral,” terms with their back to school in according to Chandler. schoolwork. person.”

She believes “this question is unfair” to She said ask since it does not Mrs. Chandler the “lines of address who is saying communication it. For ex. Teachers, are at every turn students, staff members, etc. when you need them” for people to contact “Harford County is doing everything they can for everyone to be back in school and managing everything going on”.

her or any of the school system workers.

One of the big concerns she said is that elementary school students and how they

are going to be doing virtual school. She told us that “elementary school teachers would film themselves walking around the classroom while teaching” That way the students can understand what is going on.

Chandler added that “Online school has always been an option so it’s just that everyone is taking that option since its mandatory now.”

When everyone goes back to school, she stated, “North Harford is thinking of the equality club for LGBTQ+ students” That is one of the many new things that’s going to be there when people get back to school.

INDEX

See pg 10 - SPORTS See pg 15 - EXTRAS See pg 20 - FEATURES

Facinating atricles that involves intresting and eye catching reads. x Interveiws with Doctor Jennfer Chandler x

Mrs. Jennifer Chandler is the Super Attendant of Harford County Public Schools. She used to be a teacher at North Harford High School for 30 Years. Eight months ago, Chandler had to start thinking about what protocols would need to be put in place due to coved 19, to have a safe school year for the kids, teachers, and staff. , Chandler made all Harford County Public Schools go virtual.

Super Attendant Chandler answered questions about virtual learning and going back into the school building on a zoom call with students from Harford County Public Schools. Chandler commented on whether students will need to be vaccinated. She replied, “I have no control over that. That’s the state’s health departments decision whether they will acquire it or not.” The leader also said that if a teacher gets sick, they “will have to work from home, quarantine for two weeks, and you will have to get a Covid 19 test that has to come back negative.

Chandler states that if you do get sick, following these protocols will let everyone be safe, and sick free and will be able to strive and have a successful school year.

Chandler said there are protocols in place for returning to the building. Dr. Chandler says “Teachers will have to separate desk in the classrooms 6 feet apart. Everyone has to wear a mask.” Dr. Chandler states that all kids will have to social distance between their classmates, and teachers, in order everyone will be safe. One student asked Dr. Chandler if kids will be going back full time after virtual learning? She replied saying “When we go back into school, only 20% of students in each school will go back in one day a week.”

Dr. Chandler states that’s kids

x interviews

friends Family

with x and x

I interviewed three different people and asked them ques-

tions about when kids can go back in to school. My first Interviewee is Maddi Gibson. She is a sophomore from Harford County Public Schools. My first question was “What are the standards going to be for when we go back into schools?” Maddi replied, “I do not know that answer to that question.” Next, I asked “What precautions will there be when we go back to school?” she said, “Everyone is going to have to wear a mask and social distance throughout the halls.” By using these precautions, everyone will be safe in school. “How do you feel about in-school learning? Do you think it’s going to work?” She said, “It’s going to be the same as being home because we can’t interact with anyone.” She is saying that going back to school is not worth it since we cannot interact with teachers and students and staff. “Do you think the number of Covid-19 cases are low enough to open school?” Maddi replied with “If schools are opening, then yes.” She is stating that if elementary school children can go back into school, then middle school and high school kids should be allowed to go back in full time.

“Do you think there will be hand washing stations available throughout the school and when will the staff and students be required to wash their hands?” She replied, “I think hand washing will be available because all students and staff and teachers will want to be clean.” “How do you think physical distancing will be proceeded throughout the day?” She

“Desks are going to have to be spread apart at least 6 feet apart from everyone else.” By spreading desks apart, it will keep everyone that is in the classroom safe. “What precautions will there be when we go back to school?”

Dahlia had the same answer as Maddi Gibson had which was “Kids are going to wear masks, social distancing, can’t walk together.” “How do you feel about in school learning? Do you think its going to work?” She had a different answer than what Maddi replied with. She replied with “It will work because there’s kids that need to have face to face help, in order to pass their classes.” The third question was about if Covid-19 cases are low enough for kids to go back into schools.

She replied with “No I do not think so.”

She does not think they are low enough.

“Do you think there will be hand washing stations available throughout the school and when will the staff and students be required to wash their hands?” She replied, “Honestly no, kids and students will have to have hand sanitizer and forced to wash hands after the use of the rest room.” That states that kids will be able to walk into the bathroom to wash their own hands. “How do you think physical distancing will be proceeded throughout the day?” Dahlia replied with “Desks will probably be spread apart in classrooms, only a couple of kids in the room.” From asking these questions to Dahlia, we can see that she had a few different answers than Maddi did.

My third Interviewee Is Robin James. She is a 46-year-old woman who is a scientist. I asked her the same exact questions that I did to my two other interviewees.

“What are the standards going to be for when we go back to school?” she replied with “I would say masksj

Interveiws with friends and family goes onto the next page

x

, people have to self-regulate

whether they are sick or not.

If people are sick, they must quarantine.” “What precautions will there be when we go back to school?” Robin had the same exact answer as my two other interviewees, which was “everyone will have to wear a mask.” “How do you feel about in-school learning? Do you think it’s going to work?” Robin had a different answer than Maddi and Dahlia. Robin replied with “I think the lessons will suffer, provided someone has to monitor the chat while learning.” This states that lessons will be harder on the teachers.

“Are the number of cases low enough to open?” She had a similar answer as to what Dahlia had said. She said, “Personally I don’t believe the cases are low enough, if school offices are not allowed to go back, why are kids going back.” “Do you think there will be hand washing stations available throughout the school and when will the staff and students be required to wash their hands?” She again had a similar answer as Dahlia.

She said, “I don’t think there will be hand washing stations, they will only try to get away with hand sanitizer.” “How do you think physical distancing will be proceeded throughout the day?” She replied saying “Kids will be good at it, then they will get comfortable, and

Page 2

By interviewing more than one person on an important topic, we can learn that other people have different opinions towards going back into school.

Freedom of the press Senior Legal Counsel, Sommer Dean, is a journalist, and has been for 15 years. Dean talks about our society being a part of the freedom of the press and what the freedom of the press will and will not allow to be used in articles/newspapers.

Being a part of the freedom of the press is basically the right to report news or circulate opinion without censorship from the government. Americans enjoy freedom of the press as one of the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Dean states the rights from the first amendment. “Abridging freedom of speech”, “the right of the people peaceably to assemble”, “to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” “Create informed citizenry through “marketplace of ideas”” These are some rights us Americans have toward the First Amendment. Dean also mentioned unprotected speech.

Something the freedom of the press will not allow in articles/ newspapers is unprotected speech. Dean states that “if there are any threats, fighting words (bad language), drug use, copyright, or defamation used in articles/ newspapers, will not be allowed to be published out to the community. Now if schools publish newspapers for their fellow classmates to see/ read, depending on what you write about, if it has any unprotected speech in that newspaper/ article, the school could censor it, and will not allow that article or newspaper to be published out to the community/school.”

Sommer Dean talks about private schools vs. public schools towards the press freedom. Dean says that public schools have more rights surrounding the first amendment more than private schools do. Public schools have school resource officers that are funded by government actors. Because of this, Dean states that “Public schools have more protection, and we are on a bit of an edge other than private schools.” Unlike public schools, Dean states that “Private schools usually either have a binding contract or a have a pledge that every student has to understand that the students’ voices are not allowed to be heard, since private schools have more of a better look than public schools do.” Private schools usually have their own publisher unlike what public schools have.

Sommer Dean brings up the Tinker Case and the Hazelwood Case. The Tinker Case was a group of students in Des Moines who planned a public showing of their support for a truce in the Vietnam War. This group of students decided to wear black arm bands throughout the holiday season. The principals picked up on the group of students plan, and created a policy that stated “that any student wearing an armband would be asked to

remove it, if they refused to remove it, they would result in a suspension.” On December 16th, Mary Beth Tinker and Christopher Eckhardt wore their armbands to school, and were sent home.

Through their parents, the students sued the school district for violation the students’ right of expression and sought and injunction to prevent the school district from disciplining the students. This case came all the way up to the Supreme Court. Dean states that “The Supreme Court held that the armbands represented pure speech that is entirely separate from the actions or conduct of those participating in it. The Court also held that the students did not lose their First Amendment rights to freedom of speech when they stepped onto school property.”

Now the Hazelwood case is a little bit different. Dean explains that the Hazelwood case was “A school-sponsored newspaper at Hazelwood East High School. This newspaper was written and edited by the students. The principal found a few of the articles to be inappropriate. The principal then decided to not let the school publish the pages.” Student Cathy Kuhlmeier and two other former high school students decided to bring this case to court. This case went all the way up to the Supreme Court. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court held that the First Amendment does not in fact require schools to promote certain types of student speech. The Supreme Court says that schools must be able to set high standards for student speech, and that schools refused the right to refuse to sponsor speech that is mature for students. The students did not offend the First Amendment because the Supreme Court does not have any editorial control over the content of student speech.

The Tinker Case was a more important case than the Hazelwood Case because in The Tinker Case, it was simply just students silently protesting the Vietnam War over holiday. It did not break any of the First Amendment laws. The students were using their right of freedom of speech. Unlike the Tinker Case, the Hazelwood Case did have unprotected speech in the newspaper, so when the students tried to sue, they could not be due to the language they used. Since the Supreme Court can not do anything about editorial stuff, the students were not allowed to sue, due to their actions.

Even though the freedom of the press has weird rules, it is still very important to our society because it gives us a right to free speech. “if there are any threats, fighting words (bad language), drug use, copyright, or defamation used in articles/ newspapers, will not be allowed to be published out to the community. Now if schools publish newspapers for their fellow classmates to see/ read, depending on what you write about, if it has any unprotected speech in that newspaper/ article, the school could censor it, and will not allow that article or newspaper to be published out to the community/school.”

TODAYS NEWS BROOKELYN PRIEBE

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE, MD

DECEMBER 4, 2020

Of Students From North HarNorth Harford High School Issues, Parents ford High School, Niki, Todd, Hannah, Concerns, New Ways of Learning React to Questions About Covid-19 BROOKELYN PRIEBE Reporter

October 6th, at 1:57 pm, Students from North Harford High School interviewed Dr. Chandler. “Primary concern is to keep educating the kids, tackle serious issues and provide resources to help make things happen.” Dr. Chandler said. What kind of “things” does Chandler mean to make happen? And will it happen?

October 6th, students from North Harford High School interviewed Dr. Chandler about the school issues and problems all around the district. One of the questions asked was “what will teachers do if they hear racial slurs?” which Chandler answered by saying teachers are currently under cultural proficiency learning about cultural things. The students also asked what will happen about vaping and drug use in schools, she then answered, “primary concern is to keep educating the kids, tackle serious issues and provide resources to help make things happen like stop vaping in school.” She also said “they have committees to help tackle them in the best possible way” but, will committees help stop these problems?

Chandler was asked what will happen with pre k students and the pre k teachers. She responded, “elementary school teachers will be

recording themselves in the classroom then posting them for kids that are at home to see.” She also said that the plan is “still in progress. Right now, they are working with pre k teachers to help it make it easier for the little kids to learn and keep their attention.”

Students then asked, “would you make your students take a vaccine?”

Which she responded she would make her students take the vaccine but, in the end, it would be up to the parents if they made their child take a vaccine, but that choice is not up to her.

Students asked Chandler “would you make your students get a vaccine shot before coming into class” which she said that she would make her students get a vaccine but that wouldn’t be up to her, it would be up to the parents and it’s not her choice.

Students also asked, “when we go back to school, will students be able to use lockers?” Chandler responded by “when students go back to school, lockers can be in use because students can and will be socially distanced by six feet.” Another question was if teachers feel safe coming back to school which chandler responded by “62% of teachers have said they feel safe coming back to the school”

BROOKELYN PRIEBE Reporter Do you wonder how parents with students from North Harford High School feel about covid-19 and going back to school? Or do you wonder how students may feel about going back? Well, here is how Hannah Dawson, Niki Priebe, and Todd McLain feel.

On October 9, 2020, Hannah Dawson, Niki Priebe, and Todd Mclain all said different things.

Priebe said “I don’t see any positive difference in changing the location of virtual learning from home to a school building. Only if there was going to be a normal teaching situation, I would send my child back to school.” She said if there is or was some sort of safe socializing, she would send her kids back because it would help improve their mental health. Priebe believes that virtual learning is not good for the students’ health because the students are not allowed to see their friends and they just sit in the same room staring at a computer screen for hours a day.

Student from North Harford Middle School, Dawson, said she would go back to school in a heart-

Difficulties Being Apart Of Journalism, Rules, Consequences, Students Career, Stories are told BROOKELYN PRIEBE Reporter Difficulties Being Apart Of Journalism, Rules, Consequences, Stories are told

Students Career,

November 10, 2020, student from North Harford High School interviewed Sommer Dean over a Microsoft Teams Meeting. She told the students all about journalism and difficulties the students will face during the journalism career.

weren’t interrupting the school day.

The students then brought attention to the board of education about the problem and the student won their battle.

Dean also told students about the first amendment, “the government can’t interfere with laws that are written.” Therefore, students in journalism have the role of free press meaning students can write about whatever they want through marketplace of ideas, watch dog, and conscience of society.

Schools can also censor articles that are poorly written, biased or prejudiced because it is unstable for immature audience, but public-school officials do not have the unlimited authority to censor student media, unlike private schools.

this is a picture of a bear walking out of the water. It pulled a fish out of the water to eat it.

Index: pages 1-6: Sports Pages7-10: Christmas Pages 11-15: Dinner Ideas Pages 16-20: Daily fun facts Pages 21-23: About ‘Today’s News’ Pages 24-27: Health Facts Pages 28-30: Coupons

“Therefore, students in journalism have the role of free press...”

Dean said, “the school can censor you if your article is disrupting the school day, otherwise if it’s not interrupting, then they can’t censor you.” She told students about a girl who wore a black ribbon around her arm with other students to peacefully protest at her school, but the school censored them and told them to take the ribbon off. The school had no right to censor her or the other students because they

beat. She said, “it would be better for students because the teachers would be able to help them even more.” and that the teachers can pay more attention to the student. She said “I would be okay going back to school but i would want the students and my classmates to wear a mask so that we can all be safe. She believes that virtual learning is also worse for students’ mental health because she can’t see her friends and she feels more stressed trying to understand the schoolwork without the teachers help because it is nerve wracking having to ask a teacher a question over virtual learning.

Harry Styles VOGUE magazine shoot. Styles is blowing up a ballon and wearing a dress. Many people are feeling unsettled with a man wearing a dress.

Censorship in School Journalism REESE SHOWALTER Reporter Schools are able to censor student journalism produced at your school? There are restrictions that the school can put on journalism if the reporting disrupts the school day along with other reasons, they are able to restrict what is produced.

Sommer Dean, attorney with Student Press Law Center, said schools can restrict journalism that disrupts the school day. Dean was able to give us insight into the legal side of journalism in schools. Schools can restrict some things that are published in your school, but dean stated, “public schools officials do not have unlimited authority to censor student media.” Like Dean stated schools can restrict to a point but they cannot have unlimited power over what is produced in schools. There have been many cases where students and parents have taken schools to court over restricted journalism.

According to Dean some examples of cases that were taking to court are “Tinker standard” and “Hazelwood.” The Hazelwood case established that schools are unable to create an unlimited license to censor the journalism produced in your school. The Tinker standard case stated that student’s speech is protected from censorship except

for speech that creates a material and substantial disruption of normal school day activities. There are many other examples of cases that went to court over censored journalism in school.

The attorney added there are instances where schools are able to censor what you are able to write. They are well within their rights in some instances to censor what is produced. Schools are able to censor your work when it is poorly written, biased or prejudice, or unsuitable for immature audiences. Schools still do not have unlimited censorship there are still many restrictions in censorship.

Dean commented that censorship is a large part of journalism in schools. It has caused problems between schools and parent and even schools and students.

The job of journalists is to be a watch dog and report on issues and censorship in schools can restrict what you are able to do. Even though censorship has caused problems it is still an important to have censorship in public schools.

Corona-Virus: Students struggle during Online learning experience REESE SHOWALTER Reporter Online School. Corona virus. Quarantine.

In the past school year there has been much concern due to the virus especially for the school system. There has been lots of concern from parents on how schools will handle going back to school in the future. Many parents and students are unsure of the future of the virtual school world.

There have been many challenges for students and parents due to the introduction of the virtual learning. Kendall Fortune stated, “the most irritating part of virtual learning is getting cut out since it is harder to communicate.”

With the new virtual world, it is harder for students and teacher to interact with each other. It is also harder for students to get help when they needed especially one on one. Fortune also stated, “The hardest part is communication.” It is also hard for

REESE SHOWALTER Reporter Are you wondering how the super intendent of Harford County Public Schools is handling the Corona Virus? For many people, the virus has caused fear and uncertainty. The re-opening of schools has caused much concern in parents and students. On October first and second we were able to ask superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chandler questions relevant to the corona Virus and ongoing problems in the School system.

New Born Puppy named Coco loves to spend time sleeping in the barm.

She is a 4 month old Golden Retriever Puppy born in Maryland.

Many students have made accommodations for their online learning environment. Lila Barnaba stated, “to be successful in virtual learning I set up a quiet workspace where I could be focused while learning. I also make sure all my assignments are completed to meet requirements and are turned in on time.” Barnaba also has a desk set up in her bedroom that has all of her notebooks, pencils, and materials she may need for class. It makes her learning experience easier to have everything she may need on or near her desk.

“With the new virtual world it is harder for students and teachers to interact with each other...”

Dr. Chandler Gives Insight on Schools Harford County Public Schools According to Dr. Chandler “There are many ideas for the reopening of schools, but nothing is set in stone.” There have been many ideas and speculation of what school will be like on the re-opening.

Chandler does get backlash from parents and students due to the decisions made for Harford County Public Schools, “I do my best to handle it and help with the problem.” Making decisions about the schools and the corona virus have been hard for her.

There seems to never be a perfect answer for the issue at hand. Whatever she chooses

students to be social with one another and work in groups or partners.

someone will be unhappy with the outcome. When student go back to school locker use was in question Chandler was able to give us hot off the press news that lockers will be used on the returning of school. They have found an effective way to use lockers and keep students safe and socially distanced. “lines of communication are open at every turn.” If students need help in classes lines of communication are open to teachers through Itslearning, Remind, As well as through email. Students should use these lines of communication to reach their teachers if they are unsure of the content they are learning.

Chandler also talked about ongoing issues in the school system. Chandler talked about drug issues in the school “no matter who you are you inherit old problems.” Drugs have been an issue in the school systems for a very long time.

She has been looking for different ways to help with the issue stating, “I am not skirting the issue.” Along with drugs academic dishonesty is becoming more of an issue due to online learning and the easy access of the internet “Academic dishonesty is a monumental issue.” She also was asked about racial issues in the schools. She was researching ways to help in this area.

Another challenge of virtual learning is connection and Wi-Fi issues. Barnaba said, “The most irritating part of virtual learning is not being able to access websites because of the internet connection. Also, when teachers do not answer emails when students have questions. It is hard and frustrating when their internet is slow, and they are unable to get to a website they need for class. Barnaba has an extra hard time due to wear she lives she is unable to have a good network connection.

Virtual learning and the virus have been hard for many, but student and teachers are trying their best to adjust their teacher to accommodate the online learning and students.

Index: page 1-2 Sports Page 2-5 Information on the Corona virus Page 5-9 Celebrity information 9-11 Information on schools 12-20 Crimes in the Baltimore area 20-22 Make up 28-30 Music 30-35 sponsors

Straight News North Harford High School

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE, MD

The communities view of COVID-19; future generations thoughts of online Gary House Reporter

Are we hurting our future generation by keeping them at home?

There is a lot of controversy around online schooling in 2020. Some think it good for students, some thinks its bad and unhealthy for students, I have gathered information on the subject by two adults and one student.

“Students do not learn social skills of verbal interaction and the art of conversation” said Gary House Sr, while Shawn House said, “It won’t have a dramatic impact on students’ lives.” Shawn house thinks there are more mental health issues then physical, while Toby Hawkins has said that there is a chance of obesity while we are out for an extended period of time from “lack of movement” and “low motivation.

have any fears of in-person learning and went as far as saying they encourage it. Both Gary, Shawn and Toby all agreed that online school is a viable option in the future when faced with another scenario like this.

I asked the three

inconsistency in the students staying in school. Gary had a different reason, he said, “online class will be the default for any future emergency” and that “things will never go back to normal.”

While Toby’s approach was more about safety then anything, he said that “you have to use masked and hand sanitizer to prevent the virus from coming back”

This picture is of a school that was infected with COVID-19

I asked Toby if he had any fears of in-person learning and Toby is quoted on saying “If cleaning isn’t done right, it could lead to another outbreak,” while Gary and Shawn both agreed when saying they do not

The last set of questions I asked the three interviewees was about mental health.

I asked all of them if students mental health would be affected by online schooling. They all agreed that lack of socialization is bad for mental health, but they all do not think it will have long term effects.

Gary said, “there is a degree of depression from lack of stimulus.” Toby and Shawn agreed that there is lack of socializa-

interviewees’ if they thought the virus would influence our school lives, and they all had something different to say about it. Shawn fears that once one student contracts it, there will be

tion.

to fund the publication.” The last point Sommer brought up was that the “First Amendment limits ability of public school officials to control student media”, while private schools “can freely dictate publication’s content.”

“Incitement to imminent lawless action.”

They can also censor if it causes a “Physical disruption.”

Sommer Dean speakes to students

Gary House Reporter

Is the school taking away the right of young writers to publicly publish their articles? Are young journalist losing their freedom of speech and expression?

There is a lot of controversy around the school system unreasonably censoring young journalist work. As Sommer Dean put it the young journalist are going to be “watchdogs.”

In the words of Dan Johnston, neither student nor teachers “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” As referred to by Sommer Dean there is something called “The Publisher Myth” which refers to things that student often believe that are not true. One myth is that public schools own the publication when public schools “Do not own the publication.” In the case of Private schools though the rules are different, public schools “Legally own the publication.” Sommer also brought up that in public schools “Taxpayers dollars used to support publication”, while in private schools there is “Private money used

Sommer talked about a lot of protected and unprotected speech, then she talked about “The Hazelwood Standard”

Sommer talked about “unprotect- which Sommer said, “Censorship must be ed speech” as well. She made it clear that “reasonably related to legitimate pedagogical concerns.” Sommer then went on to list “Censorship “Unreasonable” under Hazelwood”, which were “fairness, Balance and Opportunity to Respond”, “Grammar”, “Writing Quality”, “Suitability for Potential Audience”, “Research quality”, “No bias or Prejudice”, “Accurate”, “Timing” and “ Continuity/Experience of Journalism Instructor.”

“Shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gates”- Dan Johnston are some things that the school system can censor. She talked about nine things that the school system can legally censor if found in a student’s articles. They are, “Defamation”, “Invasion of Privacy”, “Copyright Infringement”, “student speech that advocates illegal drug use”, “Obscenity”, “Fighting Words”, “True Threats” and

Sommer said, “Public school officials do not have unlimited authority to censor student’s media” and also said “The best way to fight is through the Court of Public opinion.” Sommer Deans stands up for students right and gives them a legal voice through her. She tells young writers what is right, what to look for, and how to get a voice when unfairly treated.

December 4,2020

Dr. Chandler speaks on problems at North Harford High School Gary House Reporter

At the start of October, superintendent Dr. Jen Chandler of Harford County Public Schools had an interview and discussed some questions the community had for moving forward in the future with schools or anything from Covid-19 to racial problems.

Dr. Chandler taught for 30, she talked about her experience as a principle in a school out of state.

She was quoted on saying “I didn’t want to be the superintendent of the school”. She had said that she did not want to move up any either. She talked about how much she enjoyed working in the classroom.

Dr Chandler has said she plans on having students come back at “25% capacity starting in November.” Dr Chandler has high expectation for the future generations of in school learning. She talked about protocols that are put in place for students and the community’s protection. One protocol she talked about was how teachers need to sanitize desked while students switch classes.

Other concerns were about hallways, bathrooms, lunchrooms, and other public places, which she cleared up by saying there will be social distancing and only one person per bathroom. There was an issue of how we are going to make sure COVID-19 is not spread, Dr Chandler cleared up concerns by stating that it is our personal obligation to sanitize our computers and other tools we use.

There were questions regarding the upcoming vaccines, Chandler made it clear that it was the guardian’s decision but strongly encourages it. This is what she said regarding the topic “it is a parent or guardians’ choice.” She also said, “she would require it, but in the best interest of the students.”

Dr Chandler also talked about racial problems in our community. There was a survey done by the school that showed racial diversity which was considered “neutral.”

There was also a question regarding racial language used in the school building, this said that “35.1%” of student have heard racially derogatory language in the school. She was asked about racial slurs used in the classroom, she in response she said teachers are “undergoing cultural proficiency training.” Dr Chandler also talked about how she wants everyone of all cultures to feel welcome in our community.

NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE, MD

DECEMBER 8, 2020

Superintendent Dr. Jen Chandler addresses Community shares opinions on virtual learning

virtual learning complaints today CAROLINE BARQUIN Covid-19 has had a huge impact on everyday life but most importantly on the school system. On October 8 Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools Dr. Jen Chandler gave some answers to some common questions from the community.

A lot of parents have been worried about sending their child back to school, but Chandler has assured the community that there are many protocols put in place to protect the children and teachers. She mentioned, that “one-way hallways are a must as well as social distancing,” Teachers will also be required “to sanitize all desks in between classes.”

The protocols that take place in the cafeteria would be to social distance the students and to make space according to Chandler. She added that this includes moving some tables into other places. The bathroom protocol requires only one person to be in there at a time.

Chandler wanted to acknowledge that there are many things put in place for the care of students during the day who have working parents. She pointed out that Harford County has learning centers for parents to send their children to while they work. There is also free day care at other places for working individuals that need help with childcare. She also explained that there is “no one way to make sure that all students are engaged in their work.”

Another issue that has come up is how easy it is for students to cheat on quizzes and classwork. Chandler agreed adding “academic dishonesty is a huge problem with online learning but that students should have their best interest in mind.

Students aren’t going to learn anything if they are constantly cheating.”

“The job of a teacher is very difficult, people expect them to act like a superhero, when in reality they are humans trying their hardest,” Chandler commented. She added that the primary job of a teacher is to educate the children for the future.

Beyond teachers, there are many people that are working very hard right now according to the superintendent. Chandler wanted to give her applause to mental health professionals and police officers that are committed to help with the issues in the school system.

“The job of a teacher is very difficult, people expect them to act like a superhero, when in reality they are humans trying their hardest,” - Dr. Jen Chandler

CAROLINE BARQUIN “I don’t like it, students are disengaged and preoccupied with other things.” Jen Barquin a mother to two students explained regarding virtual learning. The community has many opinions on virtual learning and want to be heard.

Kristin Campaigne a speech-language pathologist at Villa Cresta Elementary explained that she thinks virtual learning works for some children, but it does not work for most children. Student at North Harford High School Grace Shriver believes that virtual learning is okay and that it has its advantages and disadvantages.

Campaigne agrees she thinks students will go back fully in the beginning of the new school year. While Shriver completely disagrees and thinks that students will be fully back in January or February. This would contradict the parents and teachers view.

The next major discussion among the community is whether they would send their child back to school or not. Barquin says that she is not nervous and that “kids need to be in school for instructional support.”

“I don’t like it, students are disengaged and preoccupied with other things.”

-Jen Barquin

Many people are wondering when students will be going back into school full time. Some say next year, and others say in the winter. Barquin says “There will probably be a hybrid spring and students will go back to full time in the fall.”

The whale wishes everyone Merry Christmas. And a happy New Year.

But Campaigne says that she is nervous about kids coming back to school. Her reasoning for this is “young kids won’t be able to keep their mask on, they also lack proper hygiene, while not being able to understand the aspect of social distancing.” Shriver explained that her parents are not nervous to send her back to school because they do not worry about Covid as much as they should.

There are many side effects that come from sitting in front of the computer all day that have been recorded. Barquin has said that she is worried about weight gain, joint pain, and vision problems.

Campaigne acknowledged that she is worried about the impacts that could come from the lack of movement. As well as problems with her vision down the road because of constantly staring at the computer screen. Shriver explained “It’s basically the same thing as sitting at a desk at school. I also move around a ton so I’m not stuck in one singular place.”

Attorney Sommer Dean sheds light on how student journalist

Are protected by the first amendment, speak on unjust topics withoutfear of consequences

Caroline Barquin

How are student journalist affected by the first amendment? Sommer Dean an, attorney, at the Student Press Law Center can answer that.

“Student journalist are part of free press,” Dean explained.

Her mission at the Student Press Law Center is to make clear that neither students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of expression or speech at the schoolhouse gate. She said this is because a lot of schools try to censor your voice or work because it gives the school a bad reputation or believe that it is going to interrupt the school day.

When she works on a case that includes the school trying to silence

student journalist, she makes sure to see that “the censorship must be The first amendment does not proreasonably related to legitimate ped- tect obscenity, fighting words or agogical concerns.” Dean added that defamation. Although for schools students are not there must be “People should be most writing about things a reasonable forecast of dis- informed about what that have obscenity or words. But if ruption. people in power are fighting a school says that it is The attordoing. And it is the defaming then that’s a student journalists’ ney added that media’s job to be shedproblem. there is great i m p o r t a n c e ding light on injustices Dean believes that, that comes in the community.”

“People should be infrom the first formed about what amendment.

- Sommer Dean people in power are It gives people doing. And it is the the freedom to speech, press, protest, and petition. These all are very media’s job to be shedding light on important to the independence and injustices in the community.” freedom of citizens of the United She acknowledged that this falls States of America.

back on student journalist quite a bit. The students at the school and the community should be well informed on what is going on in the school system as well as what is going on outside the walls of the school.

This may be confusing when we see that the school system does censor a lot of what students do. This is seen in sports when coaches are able to censor people’s social media in order to portray a good light on the school team. Dean acknowledged this, “Although employers are able to censor what you post, coaches should not have that ability.

No one has challenged the schools for doing this yet. But if you were to ever get a severe punishment, they would be able to get justice.”

The Danny Post THE BEST OF NEWS

2029 TV RD, PYLESVILLE MD 21132

NHHS has new superintendent; promises to fight Corona, discrimination daily DANNY GALLO Journalist

between students as recommended by health professionals, and students who We are going to tackle it head on,” don’t follow these instructions will have says Dr. Chandler, the new superintenconsequences according to the school’s dent of NHHS on discrimination against protocol. She also touches on the fact people of color in the school. that student lockers will be used without Chandler announces she and the school danger and will be sanitized and disadministration will be studying ways to tanced from each other. combat discrimination, how the school Students have also wondered if they will will be handling the virus Covid-19, have a choice regarding going back to ways stuschool dents can while do their part simultafrom home, neously and furtherdoing more. virtual Under her adlearnministration, ing. AcChandler cording promises to to Chaninclude more dler, the LGBTQ+ answer curriculums is yes! in hopes of a While in more diverse person education learning system, and is highthat an “equi- The interview to become superintendent; what Mrs. Chandler surpassed. ly enty club” will be available for students of couraged, students who may not feel all sexualities and gender identities. comfortable being around others or in a Many students and parents wonder what school environment during the pandemic school and education will be like in the are able to opt out and learn at home on middle of a pandemic, especially for their devices. She says she understands kids of younger ages. Chandler explains the need to stay home quarantined, since that “live instruction is super important there have been rising cases of Corona for youngest learners,” says Chandler. virus.

But how will the Corona virus be sucWhat are Dr. Chandler’s tips for students cessfully handled in her hands? trying to combat the spread of the CoroChandler explains that on Nov. 16 stuna virus while going to school? She has dents will be coming back to school one one. day a week, and while this is exciting According to Chandler, students should news for many, parents seem concerned make sure their laptops and personal for the safety of their kids during a health things are disinfected often, since one imposing pandemic. She pronounces that “could never be 100% sure,” about the safety measures will be taken, including spread of this pandemic, explains Chanmaintaining the 6-feet social distancing dler.

DECEMBER 10, 2020

Student journalists face censorship DANNY GALLO Journalist Sommer Dean, an attorney, is an expert on the Freedom of Press of students.

According to Dean, students have their right of First Amendment covered, there are loopholes. She says schools can delete an article from their newspaper if they deem it is inappropriate. According to Dean, topics that could be seen as harmful to the school environment include about drugs, defamation, invasion of privacy, threats against other students, and “material and substantial disruption,” explains Dean. She expands that an article will more likely not be taken down “as long as it’s not disrupting the school day,” says Dean.

And what are examples of censorships that have happened in the United States in the past?

Dean explains that Tinker v. Des Moines was a crucial court case that made student’s rights to free speech in schools concrete. She says that in this case, a student wore an armband to school in protest of the United States participation in the Vietnam War. The school environment was not disrupted by this protest, for it was a “peaceful form of protesting” that is considered a human right, says Dean.

Another example given by Dean is the Hazelwood case, which expanded the rights of administrators to censor publications if their newspaper is funded by the school.

Dean explains here that a student published an article about teen pregnancy, causing commotion in classrooms. Dean expands that the principal of Hazelwood deleted the pages without telling the students who published it, and tthe students

“as long as it’s not disrupting the school day,” -Sommer Dean

Virtual learning; the pros, the cons of learning from a screen DANNY GALLO Journalist Parents and students all over the country are on the fence: is virtual learning really an effective way to handle education during this pandemic?

The answer is both positive and negative.

According to George Farinholt, a parent of a student at North Harford High School, “when you’re home, this is where students are not thinking about learning” says Farinholt.

George is one of the many parents across the country worried about the negative effects of online learning. He said that schools should not be open until the pandemic is over, and pronounces that many students who have attention difficulties would be negatively impacted by this.

Farinholt and others who live in the rural

felt as this violated their first amendment rights.

The attorney also explains that these policies can differ from private schools to public schools, since private schools are privately funded. Students who publish articles in private schools are not protected by the First Amendment like those in public are, and their publications can be owned by the school, says Dean. She says that even their publications’ content can be dictated in this environment.

But how can students in private schools take a stand against unreasonable censorship?

According to Dean, private publishing students can take their concerns to court if necessary. If the school administrators have signed contracts that give the students rights in which are being violated during a censorship, these contracts could be used as evidence against the school.

INDEX Crime: Pgs. 1, 7, 14

part of Harford County have wondered: How can those without internet access at home be succesful during virtual learning?

Schools in the United States including NHHS have come up with “learning centers”, in which students without internet access can go to and utilize free wifi to access their classes and assignments.

These learning centers are in school buildings, and even though there are few of these students, social distancing is being performed among them. Farinholt expands his concern that teachers and administrators cannot expect students to do schoolwork and “come home and not be able to do homework because of their unstable connection” pronounces Farinholt.

But what are the positives of learning through a screen?

Hunter S, 17, a student at NHHS, sees the positives in this learning format. He has

shared that doing school online has benefitted him and his friends, and that they have been getting “okay grades,” said S. S and his friends also have been enjoying the fact that students are not required to keep their cameras on during the school day, and teachers many times don’t know if their students are “even there or just napping,” explained S. He believes that while this is beneficial for student’s sleeping routines, their academic values may be disrupted.

While Farinholt and S have different relationships with virtual learning, both agree that this change in education has impacted the grades and experiences of students, either for the better or the worse.

Sports: Pgs. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Culinary: Pgs. 8, 10, 11 Health: Pgs. 12, 13, 14 Science: Pgs. 15, 16, 18 Celebrities: Pgs. 17, 19, 21 Self-love: Pgs. 22 Astronomy: Pgs. 23, 25 Relationships: Pgs. 26 Technology: Pg. 25

The People’s Report NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE MD

New Superintendent of HCPS states her case KRIS GRAY Reporter “I feel for the plight of those in the classroom and how challenging it is,” Superintendent Chandler sympathized during a virtual meeting on October 6. Chandler addressed her plans to improve education during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before becoming Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, Chandler said she was a teacher for 30 years, and then worked as principal of a fairly large school out of state.

The Superintendent admits she never dreamed of becoming the leader of HCPS, but the Board of Education felt differently. “We know that it’s challenging for children and the families in our community, and so, my job is to make sure that the lines of communication are open, that we are providing resources and assistance at every possible turn and that we are not reactive, but proactive,” the leader announced.

One decision made by the Board of Education that has some parents concerned for the safety of their children is the plan for when a student becomes ill. Dr. Chandler responded, because the ripple effect is great in middle/high schools, there is the possibility of going back to a virtual setting if someone gets sick. “The person sick would be quarantined and everyone exposed would have to be tested.”

“Academic dishonesty is a monumental issue,” Chandler addresses. That

is another problem the school system is facing. The Superintendent communicates that she and the Board of Education are working tirelessly to attack that problem because, “...we want to have authentic grades that reflect achievement, not stealing.” She also acknowledged a new tool to battle cheating, Turnitin.com. Turnitin. com combs through materials and identifies pieces that have been lifted from other students or from websites.

As the country pushes towards opening again, students and parents are wondering if virtual learning will be an option after the pandemic. Dr. Chandler reveals that offering traditional public school will be their priority, but students who want to continue virtual learning can do so through other avenues. She explains the recent change in the public-school system, “We’ve had to be creative about offering those opportunities.”

As a former teacher and principal, Chandler has a passion for teachers and their effectiveness.

She describes herself as, “…a teacher’steacher.” The Superintendent wants to make sure that teachers have the necessary pieces that will make their job not only effective but efficient. teacher.” The Superintendent wants to make sure that teachers have the necessary pieces that will make their job not only effective but efficient.

Online V.S. In-Person: 3 individuals share their successes despite struggles KRIS GRAY Reporter Academic dishonesty. Depression. Responsibility. Family. Virtual learning has varying effects on different people. On October 9, three people were interviewed for their experience. This is what those people had to say about it.

LaTarsia Gray is the mother of five kids. Two are currently enrolled in Harford County Public Schools. Jasmin Bevans is a student at the Baltimore School for the Arts. Lastly, Hilena Hamlet is the mother of three children and resides in Durham, North Carolina. One is currently enrolled in a private school and the other two are in a public school.

Reporter Are we allowed to write this story? Will we be suspended for exposing the horrible lunch plan at my school? These are questions student journalists are asking, and Sommer Dean has the answers.

Sommer Dean is a staff attorney at the Student Press Law Center. Dean was a student journalist in high school and did professional reporting in college before attending law school. The attorney claims, “Censorship has been the number one reason that high school journalists have contacted us at SPLC.” On October 29, Dean explained the authority school officials have to control the content of high school student media.

The definition of censorship is “The suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security.”

Dean states, “There are some forms of censorship that are pretty obvious. If your principle tells you, “I don’t want you to run this story about drug use at school. I don›t think it›s appropriate. You can’t run this article.” That is an example of censorship.

There are also more compli-

cated forms of censorship. For instance, “… if you’re threatened with some sort of disciplinary action for a story that you’ve ran, if you have unexplained budget cuts to your student publication, if you’re adviser is fired or punished, that counts as censorship. There are more sneaky forms of censorship so it’s important to be aware of those as well.”

Censorship has been the number one reason that high school journalists have contacted us at SPLC.” «

-Sommer Dean The attorney also explains, “As student journalists, you are apart of the free press.” This means student journalists are protected by the First Amendment, Dean clarifies. “The first amendment has pretty strong language that says the government cannot blanketly interfere with the freedoms listed.” This only applies to student journalists enrolled in public schools. This is because, “At public schools, your school officials are considered government actors and that is whose behavior the first amendment regulates,”

High school student, Jason Ryes. Struggling to focus in Math class.

These three have different views when it comes to virtual learning. But they all agree on one aspect. “I believe that virtual learning is an effective way of education for certain students.” Gray said. “…I feel like it’s easier for a student to focus, but when it comes to my arts classes, it’s a lot more difficult because I don’t have that physical interaction.” Bevans explained. “I believe virtual learning is an effective way of communication if the teacher bonds with the kids and allows them to share information to be heard, and to be understood,” Hamlet described.

online learning is just as good as traditional learning, if not better. Nearly 70% of all students claim online instruction to be as good or better than in a traditional setting.

Gray agreed with this statistic claiming, “…it is causing them to be responsible, to be in tune with technology.”; “I don’t think that’s a bad thing. I think that’s a great thing!” On the other hand, Hamlet does not relate to that as her children are “…mentally drained and sometimes have headaches. Their grades are also worse than they were in traditional school.

They feel intimidated to ask questions…”

According to the University of the Potomac, 77% of educators believe that

The impacts on the mental and physical health of the students is also a concern for parents. Lack of social interaction, refuge from unsafe households and structure are three effects that virtual learning has on students. An increase in responsibility and independence is also an effect.

Staff Attorney at SPLC speaks out on school journalism freedoms; ‘Neither students nor teachers shed their constitutional rights…’

KRIS GRAY

DECEMBER 8 2020

Dean announced. Student journalists at private schools do not have the same experience because private schools are not government-based. But there are other ways to tackle censorship without being protected by the First Amendment.

“For those students who are at a private school, the most efficient way to fight back against censorship is through the court of public opinion. To shine a light on what they are doing to keep these student journalists from writing important stories,” Sommer explains.

In other cases, private universities or schools have made pledges that encouraged the free speech and expression of students. Once these were taken to court, the court found it “… to be a binding contract between the school and the students who attend that school. In some limited circumstances, you can use your own school’s words against them. Also, often it is not about waging a legal battle, it is about making a lot of noise about what is happening. Getting alumni to write letters to the school, getting groups like SPLC and other first amendment advocacy groups to publicize it,” according to Sommer Dean.

The main aspect of attacking unjustified censorship is that “Neither students nor teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of expression at the schoolhouse gates,” Sommer emphasized.

Hamlet believes that virtual learning is negatively affecting the students’ and teachers’ mental and physical health. “…its more difficult to deal with distractions being at home with the family, the increased time on digital devices puts a strain on your brain and eyes.

It requires great self-discipline.” Hamlet describes. Gray contradicts Hamlet’s statement, “I believe that if a child is not managed by their parents or a guardian, it can be physically or mentally unhealthy.”

Bevans explains the effect virtual learning has on physical health. “I can 100% say yes on physical because sitting in front of a computer screen, you’re just clicking from class to class. You’re not getting the bare minimum exercise…”

On the contrary, Shift eLearning reveals that virtual learning typically requires 40-60% less employee time than learning the same material in a traditional classroom. Also, students learn nearly five times more material without increasing time spent in class. Bevans explains how virtual learning has prepared her for the future, “I procrastinate a lot less. I’m way better with time management and because I’m going away to college next year, I have used this time to really figure out my strengths and weaknesses to make my weaknesses stronger.” Families have benefitted by having more family time according to Hamlet.

THE K TIMES NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILE MD

Virtual Learning affects students negatively; according to high schoolers, mother of two KAILI BRUSO REPORTER

“It’s like a double-edged sword,” Jasmine Owens, a local high schooler explained the stress of virtual learning has affected her life. She explains how “unplugging” from social media and work has helps her relieve stress. “But if you do it too much or for too long, work starts to overflow.”

Owens said how social media has been a big help to keep connected with friends. She added that being on for too long can add to her stress, or even enhance it,

DECEMBER 8, 2020

Chandler tells how she will deal with racism in the school building

KAILI BRUSO REPORTER learning technique in school as out of school.

When asked how they would respond with getting COVID from being back in the school building Kirejczyk stated “I would be very mad.” She continued to say how she would then be spreading it to her family, putting her siblings, parents and grandparents out of school or jobs and sick in bed.

Kirejczyk said how her mother and grandparents were high-risk and thatshe wouldn’t risk it no matter what.

“It puts my mind at ease,” Zoe Kirejczyk, a high schooler from Fallston said. She stated how it was comforting to know that teachers and administrators were working to try to make school zones safe for Students on computer for school due to

kids. Owens and COVID-19.

Susan Kelly, a mother of two in the Harford County School System

“I would be very angry,” Owens agreed with Kirejczyk on the matter. said. Owens explained how both of

her parents are high risk and work on

Owens explained how it's a rethe frontlines and how getting COVID lief to know how people are dedicated would compromise her family. Similarto making her school safe. ly, Kelly said how she would be very upset to put her child in a situation However, when asked about where they contracted COVID. returning back to school Owens stated, “It’s very irresponsible.” She stated Kelly however is looking on the how without a vaccine for COVID-19, bright note. “It will forcefully propel us there is no reason they should risk forward,” She said explaining how the lives. Kirejczyk pointed to the teachers education needs changing. She stated and students in school rather than the how this, even though unfortunate, health risks. She stated how it's pointwas what the education system needs less because they are doing the same to change.

Dr. Jen Chandler, the new Superintendent for Harford County Public Schools, spoke on a Microsoft Teams meeting with journalism students on October 6, 2020.

Chandler explained she was a teacher for 30 years. She then became a Principal for an out of school state for a number of years. In addition to this she commented that she never “dreamed of being a Superintendent,” but is excited for the new opportunity to make a difference within the community.

When asked about how the education system will deal with homework when students arrive back at the school buildings, Chandler responded nonchalantly. “It is irresponsible as educator to not allow students opportunities outside of school,” Chandler stated. She believes that homework allows students more ways to connect lessons learned in the school building while also allowing more doors to open for students looking for opportunities outside of their school career.

On a student point of view survey on racial divide and discrimination, Chandler stated that 35.1% of students have heard racially derogative language within the school building.

The Superintendent stated that change should be “starting with an honest assessment.”

Teachers have already begun “under-going cultural proficiency training.” according to Chandler.

When students were faced with the question if there is racial diversity within the school building Chandler said that out of the

options ‘Strongly agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, or Strongly disagree’ most students group themselves in the ‘Neutral’ category.

Chandler she believes that tem should be a nity. She stated

expressed how the school sysdiverse commuhow she wants

“It is irresponsible as educator to not allow students opportunities outside of school,” -Jen Chandler all students and teachers to feel welcomed within the community.

The leader stated that discrimination in the school building will be “tackled head on.”

Despite her short time in the position Chandler feels she has proven that she keeps her promises.

The teacher training and assessment of student surveys are just a few impacts she says she has made already. And with this newfound position in her grasp Chandler believes she could truly make a difference within the community. Chandler states that this is a conversation that “needs to be happening.”

Students censored for their voice KAILI BRUSO REPORTER

Attention all journalist and journalist students, have you ever had questions about censorship in your paper? Sommer Dean, an attorney for Student Press Law Center said that the most common question she gets asked at her job by student journalist is about censorship.

Dean said that lawfully, censorship can include any of the following: poorly written articles, biased, ungrammatical, and inconsistent with shared values. Dean added that if

something is physically disrupting the schooldays, it can also be censored.

Dean stated that “censorship isn’t always about saying no.” Dean said censorship can include budget cuts, removing teachers from position in the paper and even specific notices to not interview certain students or teachers. She continued to tell how students’ rights are protected by the First Amendment.

Although the First Amendment protects public school students it doesn’t

protect private school students. Dean stated how public schools have more protection because the Principle is classified as a “government official.”

Private school run from thier own money and not the governments. Dean stated how private school journalist cam be stifled.

But Dean showed that all hope is not lost for those censored private school journalists. “It’s about making a lot of noise when unjust censorship arises.”

INDEX Sports- page 2 COVID news- page 3 Editorials- page 5 Art News- page 7 Local News- page 8

Your daily news

NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL

211 PYLESVILLE, RD, PYLESVILLE, MD

NHHS students returning to school;

During deadly pandemic

BELLA ARIST Reporter

On October 1 Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chandler, answered questions regarding vaccines, racial problems, social distancing, and academic dishonesty on a zoom call with students from Harford County Public School.

She also says students will be trusted to sanitize throughout the day, and teachers are required to sanitize in-beAbout vact w e e n cines, Chandler classes. said, “I would She adds, require it but, “like all in the end, inthings, we pardividual are not would ents 1 0 0 % .” make that deShe enCovid-19 is a worldwide deadly disease.

Now cision.” She says sures that she doesn’t have everyone has to quarantine with family only. the peofull control over ple she has what happens with the vaccine, but “the hired will keep everyone safe and healthy health department” does. She wants to give during the school day. students full control of what they want to do but also needs to ensure the health of Lastly, Chandler speaks out about acaother students. demic dishonesty. She gives out many different websites that will prevent students The Superintendent said another issue from cheating like, “turniti.com, different says, She problems. racial is from the past types of forms, etc.”. She added, when stu“We are going to tackle it head on.” and dents come back to school there will be no she will be putting out “surveys on racial opportunities for students to cheat. issues.” She has put out surveys in the past that has given feedback on student’s perWe have gotten many facts about spectives and what they think should be what our Superintend plans to do in our done future when students are going back to school. Dr. Chandler intendeds to spread The Superintendent had many things to the news about the new guild lines by sosay regarding social distancing. She excial media and all calls. She also says when plains, “all school held events will be canstudents have the option to come back social more be to needs space Cafe celled… to school, she strongly suggests that all distanced.” By socail distancing the cafe students should come back, but it is fully area, less kids would come in contact with their option. each other.

BELLA ARIST Reporter

Teacher. Parent. Student.

Larissa Arist, Ryan Arist, and Sonya Przchoda all have ideas about how virtual learning is going.,

How do we know what rights we have? Well, according to Dean, “Our rights for journalism is under the first amendment.”

to get censored.”

From the Hazelwood case the court had new rules that an official can censor. Dean named, “poorly written, biased or prejudiced, unsuitable for immature audiences, ungrammatical, material

INDEX: Page 1-3 Animal life Page 4-6 Sports

that is inconsistent with the shared values of a civilized social order, and material that would associate the school with anything other than neutrality on matter of political controversy.” These are different things in a journalist’s piece that could get him censored, said Dean.

against “The official needs more your workTo getDeana censorship says, “the official more than a hunch... they need than a hunch... they need needs to provide real evidence.” This means if journalist is doing something that is disrupting the school then to provide real evidence.” physically they have a right to ask the writer to remove it because they have real ev-Dean idence. If it’s something they can’t

Not everyone is under the first amendment, in private schools they have different rules. The attorney explains, “In a private school they can do whatever want without worrying about constitutional protection.” Dean says to fight back they can use their student voices to get across a message and “In some cases you can use your school’s own words against them.” In Public schools its different she mentioned, “In public schools the principle does have limited control over what you publish due to the first amendment.”

“connecting with your family.” Sonya’s answer was different, she said, “I am being less productive, doing my work in my bed, and not moving around as much.”

Different people feel differentRyan said one of the positives ly about is “Seeing returning kids on break, to school. having more Przchoda time to relax, answered, being able to “Yes, I help my kids w o u l d during school go back if they need to school any help, eatduring the ing lunch and pandemic having it right because for there.” This me learnwasn’t much ing with different the teachfrom Larissa er in the said she also same room enjoys, “the as me and hour lunch break we get Mother and teacher Aubrey, with her son Lu- on paper is to spend time cas. Her son had trouble with online school. easier.” Ryan agreed with with my family Przchoda by and hearing more about how our family’s saying, “Even if all the students aren’t days were.” Sonya also added, “I don’t there the students at least get to see some have to wake up as early as I normally other students and meet their teacher. It would to go on the bus. Also I don’t have sounds like the schools are taking every to stress a” These are all positives but let’s precaution needed to make my kids feel hear about the negatives. Sonya adds that safe.” Unlike the other two, Larissa had she’s, “I’m confused with its learning for a completely different response. She anonline school and knowing where to subswered, “No, I am concerned that there mit everything and where someone of the will be to many people in the building we work is on its learning.” Also, Larissa and won’t be able to social distance. This will Ryan said the same thing by not knowing be risking teacher, staff, and students if your child/student is understanding health and safety.” This response was not the knowledge they are consuming. expected. Studies show most teachers Life changed for many people and parents want to go back to school in the pandemic, including Larissa who because of the social aspect of things. said she got to “sleep in longer, teaching Kids need to get out of the house and talk through a screen, and less driving around to different people so they don’t have soplaces.” Ryan added spending more time cial anxiety.

BELLA ARIST Reporter What is the most common subject students get censored for? Dean replies, “When students hear about teachers resigning or anything to make the school, they go to look bad.... Also, near the high school level topics that have to do with mental health are usually going

DECEMBER 8, 2020

Virtual learning: from all different views

Student journalist faces censorship What is censorship? How does it affect what journalist write about? On October 29, Student Press Law Center attorney, Sommer Dean answers some questions regarding censorship.

:)

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The Bella Times

prove, officials don’t have any rights that tells them they can forcefully remove it. If they do make you remove it, the case could posibally go to court.

This answered many questions that people might have about censorship but if journalist have any more go to https://splc.org/tag/maryland/.

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North Harford High School

211 Pylesville Rd, Pylesville, MD

“Mental health of students may be more dangerous than Corona,” Board of Education member and parent, Mrs. Tamera Rush, argues the struggles of online learning faced by students and teachers alike threatens not only the quality of education, but long-term health of individuals as well.

Covid-19’s newest victim: your mind TED RUSH Reporter

Given the new pandemic environment, many issues have arisen centering around the education of students and the prospect of going back to school given the conditions. While in agreement that going back to school is a risk, some are of the opinion it is a risk worth taking. Safety is on everyone’s mind, but some argue online learning is worse than what lies beyond school doors.

Rush finds virtual education “emotionally draining”, citing her own experience with her youngest son, Colin Rush. She spends most of every Friday sitting in Colin’s room helping him with his work, recently even having to do so during weekdays just to make sure he does not “fall behind.”

Students also have little praise for the new teaching techniques put in place.

Keeping their attention is particularly difficult for most students. The lack of order in students’ schedules and atmosphere prevents effective learning. Distractions in the way of cellphones and unrestrained ability to ignore teachers proves frustrating for many.

“I can only look at a computer screen for so long”, as stated by student, Conor Sheahen, reflects the tiredness of

A student’s rights to freedom of speech and press TED RUSH Reporter

Students, you have rights within school walls. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself still being censored.

According to Mrs. Sommer Dean, an attorney at the Student Press Law Center, “public schools have an edge [over private schools].” This is because as government funded institutions, public schools adhere more so to the Constitution than do privately funded institutions, which are almost entirely free to create their own policies separate to the government.

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, though some speech remains

virtual learning on students. Sheahen finds himself unable to work effectively and is often confused by teachers’ instructions.

He observes himself feeling “more lazy and sluggish” compared to school prior to Covid, and believes students and teachers should “bite the bullet and go back to school.”

Some students believe administrators should “never do [virtual learning] again,” as stated by Colin. Others believe there may be some value to be taken away from this experience. This new social climate gives the community a chance to acknowledge what works and what does not with students’ education.

Rush sites that while learning now may not be ideal, it is improved since last spring. This also may open the possibility to “eliminate snow days” with virtual instruction as a second option. She still holds true the idea that there is “no replacement for learning,” but it does not seem to be all bad news.

December 8th, 2020

New Superintendent, new ideas about Covid TED RUSH Reporter

“Teachers are expected to behave as superheroes.” New superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Chandler said about the issues faced by many in the wake of Covid-19.

With 30 years of teacher under her belt, Chandler said she is confident in designating herself as a “teacher’s teacher”.

Despite her experience, the superintendent states she never actually thought, or even wanted to take upon such a mantle.

She is however ready to hit the ground running and tackle the obstacles plaguing our community, keeping the ideals of her students and fellow teachers in mind.

With everyone wondering how schools will cope with social distancing and maintaining safe standards for students and faculty, Chandler said her plan is to “come back to school at 25% capacity starting in November.” Her plan will respect the six-feet standard via smaller class sizes.

Teachers and students will also be held personally responsible to “take it upon Look at this monkey, his themselves to ensure their computers [and name is Dave. Dave is a very hapother belongings] are sanitized.” Teachers py monkey becuase he has banana. will also be expected to wipe down desks prior to every class for the next batch of students. With these precautions, a survey about their solution. conducted by the new superintendent saw

While students, teachers, and “62% of teachers are willing to come back The superintendent aims to “keep at the forefront, education”, but is prepared administrators continue to debate return- [to school].” to “provide resources” to attack our ing to school under strict safety precauschools’ drug issues, including educating

Chandler then points her sights to tions, some will not forget the strength police officers, allowing more access to the preexisting issues in HCPS, including lying within our community. As stated by school therapists, and establishing more drug abuse, racial scrutiny, and LGBTQ+ Sheahen, despite the many downfalls, this anti-drug programs. With recent surges inclusion.

Chandler said she has not forcommunity still “made a sucky situation in Black Lives Matter protests and rallies, gotten these issues and is prepared to set work.”

Chandler sets out to ensure diversity is unprotected. The line becomes blurred found concerning this very issue. While welcomed and such issues are addressed in many cases as to what defines unpro- Hazelwood’s ruling only applies to via diversity training for teachers and tected speech, especially with student school-sponsored speech, many students students alike. newspapers. still find themselves being censored due to misconduct of administrators not She acknowledges this as a much

According to the Student Press wanting a story to reflect badly on the needed commodity as a poll she observed Law attorney, while students in public school. These cases make up the major- showed “large populations of students schools reserve the right to freedom of ity found in student court, according to were neutral” in questions pertaining to speech, principals and administrators can Dean. racial discrimination witnessed in schools, still censor actions that have resulted in which she claims is “most likely due to prior uproar. School papers are even more Dean finds this kind of censor- students being unfamiliar or not knowing restricted, as higher-ups need only justi- ship unjust, stating “the role of press is to how to answer.” fication through grammar/writing errors, create an informed citizenry.” She hopes vulgarity, explicit content, etc. to one day find a case that Finally, Chandler talks on the lack of The two cases that solidified represents college newspa- LGBTQ+ pride and awareness seen by these precedents was Tinker v. “The role of the per reporting on groups that many schools in the county, including Des Moines and Hazelwood v. press is to create hold financial control over North Harford High School, which has Kuhlmeier. the newspaper and being no real indication of any sexual identifian informed unjustly censored by that cation inclusivity. In contrast, the halls of

Dean summarized that group, hopefully a case with some other schools, including Bel Air and citizenry” Tinker v. De Moines ruled “ma“really sympathetic facts” so Fallston, bear numerous posters and signs terial and substantial disrupshe can undermine the in- welcoming sexual diversity within the tion” was needed to subject a student to equalities faced by many students today. campus. censorship. She also relates that “Hazelwood lowered the bar” by allowing faculShe emphasizes however that “it’s Chandler acknowledges this and points ty to limit school-sponsored newspapers. not always about waging a legal war”, but to North Harford’s upcoming “Equity that students just need to be aware of their Club”, and states she is “fully confident we

She added many cases are constitutional rights – in or out of school. are addressing those issues.”