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Model United Nations: An Expanding Endeavor
by Audrey Cho, Ridellion Editor
Have you ever heard of Model United Nations?
Chances are, you haven’t. The River Dell Model United Nations Team had not been very active the past few years due to a lack of student interest, but this year the club has been quickly growing, with the help of the hard work of the club leaders and faculty advisor. Here’s the inside scoop into the newly-emerging club which is on its way to true greatness.
Firstly, though, Model United Nations is a popular club in high schools all around the country, where students get assigned a country and pretend they’re a diplomat from that country in the United Nations. Students work together at conferences to solve global problems like global warming, terrorism, and women’s rights, while at the same time gaining experience in competitive events and working with other like-minded young people. There are collegiate overnight conferences all over the country where students can participate in
committees modeled after the real United Nations in New York City. Some examples of these committees are DISEC — a Disarmament and International Security Committee —and UNCTAD —the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, but there are other committees, too. Some of them are even based on past events and can be as fun and imaginative as the Fall of the Roman Empire or Camelot.
The River Dell Regional High School had not been very active as a team in a few years, but with a fresh election of student leaders, a supportive faculty advisor in Ms. Shill, and an equally supportive principal in Mr. Pepe, they have already accomplished so much. Thanks to funding made possible with the help of Mr. Pepe, the team was able to go to the recent Bergen Academies Model UN Conference free of charge for members, which took place this past February.
Many students attended the event, All River Dell participants performed
very well at the conference, particularly Audrey Cho and Angela Lee (winners of the Verbal Commendation Award) and Pooja Talreja (another winner of the Verbal Commendation Award). Audrey Cho and Angela Lee won in a General Assembly Committee called DISEC, which is the Disarmament and International Security Committee, for coming up with solutions to the problem of bioterrorism across the globe. Talreja similarly did very well in a Specialized committee, which meant she was competing alone instead of with a partner.
The Model United Nations Team has even received the go-ahead from Mr. Pepe to continue their impressive feats and accomplishments by beginning the registration process for the Princeton Model United Nations Conference, which happens every year in the autumn. This conference would happen in 2025, and being able to attend it would be a big deal for the group of dedicated RD diplomats.
The team’s perfor-
DECA Takes on Atlantic City!
by Hope Arturi, Ridellion Reporter
mance this year has been particularly impressive, and they intend to keep it up next year and for years to come. Considering that Model United Nations is an extracurricular usually dominated by private schools, especially in Bergen County, the fact that
business conference for high
and
entrepreneurs
market-
and
tions, club members can role-play business-related scenarios, analyze case studies, create mock business proposals, and simulate business operations.
To make it to the
state competition, students had to either qualify after competing at the districts competition or choose to write a 10- or 20-page paper.
For example, a DECA member and state competitor, Lara Kirimca, worked with two other members to “write a 10-page paper on an integrated marketing campaign where [they] spoke about a service we made up.”
At states, the competition is a little different. Mrs. Lenihan explained that “states is different than districts, as it includes competing against all high schools in the state.” Moreover, the state conference takes place every year in Atlantic City, New Jersey at the Harrah’s Resort & Waterfront Conference Center over the course of
within the club.
several days. The students and competitors get to enjoy an overnight stay filled with fun memories. Before the trip, Kirimca enthusiastically shared, “I’m most excited to get a feel of the business world while being with my friends and also meeting new people.”
The next stop after the state competition is the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) which takes place in Orlando, Florida from April 26th to April 30th. To make it to this event, students must first win at the state competition. This year, three seniors—Sydney Fojas, Aaron Okrainsky and Darsh Patel—qualified for ICDC! More than 10 other members received medals as finalists or high performers at districts, highlighting a significant boost in performance and achievements from last year. Good luck to all the students competing in Orlando and thank you to all the state competitors for representing River Dell in a positive way!
the River Dell team has been performing so strongly and participating in so many conferences this year speaks volumes about their strong team and passionate dedication to expanding endeavors
On the 4th of March, Mrs. Lenihan and 69 students embarked on a journey down to Atlantic City, New Jersey to represent River Dell at the DECA state competition—a
schoolers that nurture their knowledge of the business world
spotlight future
in
ing, finance, hospitality
management. At competi-
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Email us at RDHSRidellion@ riverdell.org with an editorial idea or a response to something you’ve read.
The views expressed in editorials in this publication are those of the student journalists and not necessarily those of the River Dell Regional School District, school administration, or faculty.
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Under Pressure: How Teens Are Coping With The Academic Grind
by Audrey Cho, Ridellion Editor
Our local area of Bergen County is one of the most academically competitive regions in the entire country. It is an area characterized by high average SAT scores, a plethora of Model UN conferences, and a magnet school notorious for feeding into Ivies. However, there is one question that we don’t often ask ourselves: how is this potentially toxic academic environment feeding into students’ feelings— about themselves, their futures, and their education? New Jersey is notorious for being one of the most academically competitive states in the country, but maybe that academic prowess comes with a heavy price.
In River Dell Regional High School, a relatively high-ranking public high school in Northern New Jersey, students feel pressure. Some students view this pressure in a positive light.
“On one hand, it motivates me to work harder and plan for my future,” explained Jua Lee, a 17-year-old River Edge, New Jersey student. A lot of students feel this way.
At the Dwight-Englewood School, a private prep school in Englewood, New Jersey,
pressure is considered a “necessary evil” for the final goal: a “congratulations” email from Harvard, Princeton, Yale, or Dartmouth.
“For me, it’s good pressure because I’m the one pushing myself to find the best colleges, which I’ve done for almost all of my extracurriculars ever since I was, like, five,” says a 17-year-old girl who wishes to remain anonymous from Closter, New Jersey, and attends the DwightEnglewood School. At first glance, competitive students like these seem to feel at ease in their lives. They never said that the college process hasn’t taken over their lives. Even if the pressure feels fine, some might say that students in this competitive and dense area are sacrificing the last years of their childhoods and time spent with their parents to reach 5.0 GPAs and check off all the boxes on their applications. Maybe they— maybe we—are losing ourselves in the process.
When asked whether the looming idea of college decisions hindered the present learning process, the Closter student stated that her “… personality is one that hates to regret...so [she] does her best in school to cut down all the regrets.” The idea of being left with no regrets by the time one gets into college is not unique to her. Online content known as “toxic academic validation” is about having no regrets.
“Study now so I don’t cry later after I fail the exam” is only one of the many catchphrases on the internet. Top students, especially those of the private school community, have fallen into this rabbit hole. Learning has become increasingly tied to college, and college has become increasingly tied to wealth and general happiness, leading students to feel even more pressure. “I don’t care how much I have to study and cry. I’m going to have the job I want, the money I want, the life I want,” declares one online content creator in a social media post. Students at private schools, especially where students are already a part of wealthy celebrity and CEO families, have consistently expressed that they see a connection between studying now and becoming rich later. This mindset can turn studying and working hard into an unhealthy obsession.
Yet, the hindering of the learning process is not unique to the private school experience, although it might express itself in a slightly different light at public schools. The pressure that teenagers feel to get into college, at a second glance, is not merely motivated by a desire to attend a top university. It’s motivated by creating opportunities, building wealth, and ultimately attaining happiness. “Sometimes it feels like I’m constantly looking ahead instead of being in the moment,” remarked Lee when answering my last question. Lee, who often stays up late, working hard and studying to get top grades, always thinks about the future. While big dreams are admirable, Bergen County students may be losing sight of the true purpose of learning as they are
RDHS Weighs In On TikTok Ban: Should It
by Delilah Recio, Ridellion Editor
Nobody expected this case to go as far as it has.
Globally, TikTok has over 1.925 billion users as of January 2025, and it is no secret that the main audience for the app is teenagers from the ages of ten through nineteen. It has been the top social media app since its relaunching in 2017, when Chinese tech company ByteDance bought TikTok, previously known as Musical. ly before changing its name in August of 2018. However, problems began to surface in August of 2020 when “… TikTok experienced a data breach involving an unsecured database with data from multiple social media accounts,” the Twingate Team shared. The data leaked from approximately 235 million users, including personal information such as names, ages, genders, email addresses, facial recognition data without user consent, account access data, and profile images. This first data breach reached the concern of President Donald Trump during his first presidency; he signed an executive order that would effectively ban TikTok in the United States. However, when Joe Biden stepped into office in 2021, his administration canceled Trump’s TikTok
ban and issued two executive orders on Chinese tech companies. There wasn’t much talk of the app after Biden rescinded the ban until another data breach occurred in June 2022. Hackers began to aim for notable accounts on TikTok, utilizing dangerous links sent through private messages. There was another notice of a data breach within a year, and that’s when the Biden administration began to act.
On April 24, 2024, Joe Biden signed legislation that required ByteDance to sell TikTok to a U.S. owner within a year or be forced to shut down the app. In response, ByteDance filed a lawsuit against the U.S., claiming that it violated the First Amendment and that the security concerns were exaggerated. On January 17, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of TikTok’s banning; the ruling came in TikTok Incorporated v. Garland, with a United States attorney general representing the government in the Supreme Court.
On Saturday, January 18, TikTok went dark for a couple of hours, setting the ban into effect in the United States. Millions were upset by the immediate ban, posting their frustrations on other platforms. Some content creators utilized TikTok as a
thinking about the abstract future.
Thinking about the future doesn’t just mean thinking about the future; it means thinking less about the present. “Hanging out with my family has become less and less,” said Julia Bernard, a 17-yearold River Dell school district student. “I’m up until 1 a.m. every night trying to do the best I can in my classes.” Bernard hopes to get into a competitive or semi-competitive school, and she feels overwhelming pressure to do so, which often takes away from the present moment. When intellectual abilit and success become too much of a competition, friendships are compromised, and environments become toxic. “I study because I want to be smarter than a lot of people and know that I’m smarter, and I want to go to a good college because then I’ll look even smarter,” a private school student of Bergen County who wishes to remain anonymous honestly shares. “You probably can’t quote me on that, but that’s kind of my reason. Kind of, as in that’s literally my reason.” The pressure to get accepted into a good college and become truly admired is good to some extent, but it ultimately makes us lose sight of the things that matter. Family, friends, and even mental health get lost in the noise of GPAs, SATs, and prestigious summer programs. “There’s a lot of pressure for me to perform well,” said Julia during her last question in our interview, who had been up late studying the night before. “My extracurriculars...” she finally trailed off. The bell had rung.
Stay In Effect?
job to collaborate with companies and create entertaining videos that showcase their skills and experiences. Many were enraged with Biden’s administration, but days before Trump’s inauguration, he declared an extensive pause on the ban for 75 days, effectively bringing TikTok back to its users just a couple of hours later.
The ban affected TikTok’s teenage audience, so RDHS students were asked to share their thoughts on the controversial app and the Supreme Court’s ruling. According to data collected from the student body, 50% of students use TikTok for one to two hours daily, 26% use it for three to five hours, 19% use it for 15 to 30 minutes, and 4% use it for six to nine hours each day. When asked if TikTok takes a toll on their mental health, the majority of River Dell students answered “No” (51%), though it has still become a concern for parents in the U.S.
It didn’t seem too big an issue for students
when the data breach was exposed. A whopping 78% of RD students believe that all social media platforms steal their information, and therefore, it shouldn’t be a big upset that TikTok follows suit. Instagram, another popular social media platform, collects a similar amount of data as TikTok does. The main argument is that TikTok collects more data than other apps, but many believe that all apps on their phones steal data information, and it ultimately hasn’t caused harm to their devices.
In the end, when asked if TikTok should be permanently banned, 85% of RD students disagreed with the notion, displaying how much the app is adored and the potential problem Trump’s administration will have once the 75 days of temporary Tik Tok are over.
Source:
Should Schools Keep Reciting The Pledge Of Allegiance?
by Avani Dhariwal, Ridellion Co-Editor-in-Chief
It is easy to understand why the Pledge of Allegiance in schools is a controversial issue in the United States. Even in the New Jersey Board of Education, the Pledge of Allegiance has been discussed. The Pledge was created in 1892 and was only edited twice, in 1923 and 1954. Finally, in 1954, President Eisenhower added the words “under God” during the Cold War, which is now used as the modern-day Pledge. This was because the United States regarded the Soviet communists as “godless,” and therefore, these two words set apart the United States’ patriotism from the Soviet Union. The original Pledge in 1982 was written on the 400th anniversary of Christopher Colombus’ arrival, and the Pledge was created to market a program Francis Bellamy (author of the Pledge of Allegiance) designed for schools to note the Columbian Exposition and got Congress’s support (Little 5). The argument under the line “under God” was because “it would give students a deeper understanding of the real meaning of patriotism,’” (Little 12). In 1943, West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette prohibited public schools from forcing the students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, as it violated their freedom of speech. Then, in 1988, forcing the teachers to say the Pledge in public schools also became uncon-
stitutional as it violated the First Amendment rights. So, what is so controversial about the Pledge of Allegiance? In 2004, Luis Lugo explained the phrase “under god” and why it was unconstitutional. He explained how the phrase violated the Establishment Clause, where the Federal Government could not establish any religion or even be correlated with any religion. He explained how President Eisenhower issued the rase: it would “strengthen those spiritual weapons and forever will be our country’s most powerful resource in war and peace” (Dionne, JR 11).
Looking at the claims made to understand Eisenhower’s usage of “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance, one can quickly notice how outdated the Pledge is. Initially, it had no reference to religion, and the religious aspect was only added due to the Cold War to gain more American pride and less communist intervention. Therefore, completely biased to my opinion, I believe this line should be removed, because even if it is used to create patriotism, the acknowledgement of “God” defines religion, and therefore indirectly connects the Federal Government to a religion, which I believe is unconstitutional.
Although schools can choose whether to recite the Pledge of Allegiance or not, they are prohibited from having any correlation to
religion. So, if these schools repeat the Pledge and state the line “under God,” it creates a reference that this nation exists under God and is therefore aligned with some form of religion. Yet, this is only my opinion and, therefore, completely biased.
To get more information about how this issue can affect other individuals, I interviewed Dr. Albro, Superintendent of River Dell Regional School District, who explained his view. Dr. Albro stated that New Jersey school districts are, in fact, “required to schedule time in school for the recitation of the pledge, but students are not required to recite the pledge if they have religious or other objections.” Although it is stated that New Jersey requires this specific example of the pledge, other states can be obligated to different laws. He also noted that this issue comes up often within the Board of Education due to the separation of church and state. Still, in his opinion, Dr. Albro believes that it is unnecessary to remove the phrase “under god,” as students are not obligated to state the Pledge of Allegiance in the first place. It’s hard to find a definitive answer when asked whether this statement would violate First Amendment rights because of the controversiality of it. He explained how it depends on the scholars and their opinions instead of facts. The following questions
created a more modern-day impact of the Pledge of Allegiance and how it affects today’s students. Dr. Albro explained how it depends on the students whether the Pledge affects them or not. And that many will recite the Pledge because of tradition or as something they must do. The superintendent also explained how the Pledge of Allegiance was a “meaningful tradition,” especially for those who left their countries to find freedom in the United States. It creates a symbol of US nationalism, pride, and patriotism. Lastly, Dr. Albro was asked whether this should be a decision made by the local school district, a state-level mandate, or a
personal choice for the students. He described how it is currently a state-level mandate, and local school districts do not have a say on this matter. Most states, not all, have public schools that find time to recite the Pledge, but it varies by state. He believes it should be up to the states whether to mandate. I agree with this statement because states have a larger view of the demographics within their nation and how they should change the laws about the Pledge of Allegiance depending on this. This issue remains controversial due to personal opinions and its significance within the United States.
How A YouTube Rabbit Hole Led Me To Fight For Safer Streets In My Community
by Abdullah Elzawawy, Ridellion Reporter
It was sometime during the never-ending void that was the COVID lockdown. I had practically melted into my leather couch, my eyes tired after another day of staring at the same four walls. At this point, YouTube had become my escape. Its sea of content drowned me in an algorithm that pulled me deeper into random niches I never knew existed. I had already cycled through the usual compilation videos, cooking tutorials I would probably never attempt, and random deep dives into the history of obscure countries. That was when I stumbled upon Not Just Bikes. It was a channel run by Jason Slaughter, a Canadian man who had recently moved to the Netherlands and would not shut up about how great their cities were. His thumbnails seemed appealing enough; they were a break from the endless tide of the overly contrasted clickbait maximalism that sucked the last bits of life out of me. I clicked on one video. Soon after, I clicked on another. Then another. And another. Before I knew it, I was watching footage of Dutch streets that looked nothing like the ones I and other Americans grew up with—wide sidewalks, bike lanes that were not just afterthoughts, roundabouts that actually served
their intended function, and smarter traffic lights that judged off a congestion sensor instead of a timer. I found myself interested. Then captivated. Then annoyed; why don’t we have this here?
At first, I brushed it off as just another “whatever” niche. Cool urban and road design? Sure. But was I really going to do anything with it? Probably not. This was just another stream of videos that proves just how truly underdeveloped America is despite it being such a grand superpower.
I only kept an interest in traffic design since I could finally put my finger on why I hated being driven to school. Indeed, it was not how my parents drive (although my mother can be aggressive at times). It was more about the design. Who knew funneling so many cars on Fifth Avenue was a bad idea? Who knew middle school parents merging onto Fifth Ave simultaneously with the high school arrival time was also a bad idea? Who knew that having wider roads makes people speed well beyond the posted limit? Surely, someone must have put effort into this. Still, I didn’t put much real thought into it. My traffic redesign ideas were merely topics I would bring up regularly at the dinner table or when we were stuck in traffic.
I kept my ideas on the
backburner until my older sister and my teacher, Dr. Chu, convinced me otherwise.
I had just started my Science Research class, and they both knew I could dig into this for my research project. I figured I had nothing to lose.
I took my sister and Dr. Chu’s advice but immediately ran into a wall: finding a professional mentor to guide me. Looking back, I truly was trying to sprint to win a marathon before I learned how to walk. I was doing a scavenger hunt of Dutch professors from The Netherlands and shooting emails left and right, just to be left on ‘read’ or given a polite rejection. It was frustrating, and I thought that was the end of it.
Fast forward to last summer: I emailed a professor from Rutgers, and would you look at that? A response from one of their PhD students in less than a week.
I met Dr. Hannah Younes in August and showed her what I found. I specifically pointed out my
interest in the intersection at Grant and Oradell Avenue in Oradell: an intersection that was notorious for accidents and traffic. I showed her my ideas stemming from what I learned during my research on Dutch road design throughout the year. I presented Dr. Younes with a halfbaked PowerPoint with my scribbles showing what the intersection would look like with more pronounced curbs, pedestrian bump outs, and maybe a mini roundabout. Somehow, she was enthralled. She found it exciting to see someone, especially of my age, interested in something like this. She even went out of her way to connect me with EZ Ride, a state transpor-
Source: Abdullah Elzawawy continued on page
tation organization.
From there, I was even contacted by the co-founders of Bergen County Complete Streets, Chris and Pat. We have attended two town council meetings, both centered around one major issue: making the intersection at Grant and Oradell Avenue safer.
At our first meeting in October, we pushed for immediate awareness, which led to a kick-off event at the notorious intersection, with signage alerting drivers and pedestrians about safety concerns in hand. We received great feedback from the event. But awareness was not enough: we needed hard data. So, I created a survey, first dis-
Source: Wikipedia
The Race To Governorship: An Inside Look At The New Jersey Gubernatorial Primary
by Sabrina Klein, Ridellion Reporter
You may have recently received a flyer in the mail, heard a commercial, or seen a billboard on the side of the road advertising multiple people for one position: governor of New Jersey. The reason these campaigns have been so noticeable lately is because on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, New Jersey will elect a new governor. The current governor Phil Murphy is nearing the end of his two-term limit. To decide which candidates from the Democratic and Republican party will go head-to-head in the November election, New Jersey will be holding its primary gubernatorial elections on June 10, 2025. Here are the ten candidates running in the primary election and the issues they hope to address if they are elected as governor.
There are six democrats who are facing off against each other in the primaries. Each candidate has similar values, such as strengthening education, addressing environmental issues, and creating accessible healthcare, but their methods and beliefs slightly differ.
Mayor Ras Baraka is the Mayor of Newark. On his website, Ras Baraka explains that he plans on repairing many issues for New Jersey by creating economic stability so that families can afford healthier food, healthcare, and safer housing. One fun fact about Ras Baraka is that his father Amiri Baraka was a famous poet and playwright.
Mayor Steven Fulop is the current Mayor of Jersey City. Steven Fulop seeks to reshape higher education and special needs education. For example, as mayor of Jersey City, his administration has given grants to alternative education and vocational schools. One admirable detail about Steven is that he joined the United States Marine Corps after the tragedy of 9/11.
Representative Josh Gottheimer is a current U.S. rep-
resentative in New Jersey’s Fifth Congressional District. On his website, he addresses many issues he would like to fix in New Jersey, including expanding Pre-K universally, improving school meal accessibility, and enhancing K-12 education. Josh Gottheimer is well known around River Edge and Oradell because he is Bergen County’s representative.
Representative Mikie Sherrill is currently a U.S. Congresswoman in New
help fight against climate change. For example, he would like to fund the electrification of New Jersey’s public transportation. One fun fact about Sean Spiller is that he was a high school teacher in Wayne, New Jersey, before deciding to enter politics.
Mr. Steve Sweeney is a Former State Senate President. On his website he points to a variety of issues he would like to address in New Jersey, including plans
sey State Senator. On his website, Jon Bramnick explains that he plans on repairing many issues for New Jersey by eliminating the mandate that would ban the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035. Bramnick has a unique background in that he was a comedian before he became a politician.
Mr. Jack Ciattarelli is a Former New Jersey State Assemblyman. On his website he addresses many issues he would like to fix in
Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. On her website and in her campaigns, she points to a variety of issues she would like to address in New Jersey, including making life easier and more affordable for families. In fact, this January, she passed the REDUCE Food Prices Act that directly impacted grocery pricing for families. One fun tidbit about Mikie Sherril is that she served our country in the Navy for nine years.
Mr. Sean Spiller is the current President of the New Jersey Education Association, also known as the Teachers’ Union. One of Sean Spiller’s numerous plans to help New Jersey is to invest in clean energy to
to make healthcare more accessible and less pricey for families. An interesting fact about Mr. Steve Sweeney is that he became a champion for people with disabilities after his daughter was diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
In addition to the Democratic candidates, there are four Republicans who are competing to get their name on the Republican ticket. Each candidate has diverse values that they believe will help New Jersey progress in the best way it can. Here are the four candidates, with a little bit about their race to the ticket and their purpose in running.
State Senator Jon Bramnick is currently a New Jer-
New Jersey, including reducing state spending by thirty percent to keep New Jersey affordable and stop the rate of inflation. In his last election against Phil Murphy, he was only three percentage points away from winning. He hopes to win this time.
Mr. Edward Durr is another Republican candidate. One of his numerous plans to help New Jersey is to limit the government so the power can be handed back to the people. One fun fact about Edward Durr is that he was a commercial truck driver.
Mr. Bill Spadea is a former conservative radio host.
Jersey by reversing Murphy’s policies on immigration. One interesting piece of information about Bill Spadea’s radio show is that he has hosted over 100 episodes.
As the election is nearing, and many current River Dell students will be able to vote in June, make sure you know about these candidates and how they will all support New Jersey, especially in schools. While writing this article, I reached out to each of the candidates to understand their views on climate change and social media which are two big issues for students today. Of all the candidates, Mickie Sherrill was the only one who actually got back to me. When asked about her perspective on climate change, she stated, “As a mom of four, I believe that we have an obligation to leave our planet, our country, andour state better off than we found it. I want my kids to be able to raise their own children in New Jersey and enjoy everything that we love about the Garden State — but that requires a commitment today to protect our environment and curb climate change. That’s why we need a governor who is ready to take bold action to mitigate flooding, invest in clean energy, remediate brownfields, clean up Superfund sites, and remove lead and forever chemicals from our drinking water.” This is definitely the type of governor we need, and the type of conversation we need to be having.
In sum, this upcoming election is particularly important not only for New Jersey but for the whole nation because the only state other than New Jersey to elect a governor this year is Virginia. This election will help gauge the future of the Republican and Democratic party in the mid-term 2026 elections. So, keep your calendars marked for June 10th and November 4th!
The Politics Of Science: Impacts Of Funding Freezes Across The Nation
by Noa Kizhnerman, Ridellion Co-Editor-in-Chief
When I started writing poetry, I never imagined it could advocate for action against climate change. I had always viewed poetry as a mainstream outlet for emotional topics—but perhaps these are more intertwined than we realize.
I stumbled upon a submission call by “The Nature of Our Times.” It called for poems exploring America’s relationship with its lands and environment. The collection aimed to emphasize the significance of the First National Nature Assessment (NNA1), which is set for publication by 2026, and to raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation. Funded by the U.S. government and studied under the U.S. Global Change Research Program, the NNA1 was meant to be the first com-
prehensive study of its kind, examining America’s land, wildlife, and water while analyzing their impact on our economy, climate, health, and national security. Its efforts spanned academia, non-profits, private sectors, Indigenous communities, and the federal government. As an aspiring chemical engineer with a deep passion for science and technology, I was thrilled to contribute. I’ve always believed that while exploring the cosmos is essential, so is focusing on the present issues here on Earth. Through writing, it was almost as if I had joined a national discussion—until it was abruptly halted.
When President Trump took office, the NNA1 was ordered to be scrapped, almost as if sending a message that science could be deprioritized
despite being neither inherently political nor polarized.
This decision was one of many, however, among proposals to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and the World Health Organization and funding freezes that could impact critical research institutions like the NIH.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), which has driven breakthroughs ranging from the Human Genome Project to mRNA vaccines, faced a 15% funding cut of nearly $70 million.
The NIH provides over 3,000 grants to 234 institutions annually, meaning these cuts will affect universities, researchers, and students.
The University of Pennsylvania, for example, was forced to rescind graduate student offers due to these unexpected funding changes
On his website, Bill Spadea outlines how he plans on repairing many issues for New to prepare for a lack of resources and decreased output. A freeze in funding does more than stall— it may lead to disruptions in scientific progress, undermined education, and stifled innovation. The impacts could travel past laboratories, affecting researchers, students, and Americans. My experience with the NNA1 is a small example within a more significant issue: when, in a way,
Source: National Institute of Health
science becomes sacrificed. To continue tackling pressing environmental and medical challenges, it is crucial to recognize that funding decisions are not just numbers on a budget sheet—they help in shaping many of the discoveries that may benefit us.
Source: Sabrina Klein
Feminist or Transphobic? Trans Women Banned From Women’s Sports
by Tatum Leung, Ridellion Editor
When January 20 of 2025 arrived, President Donald Trump took office by storm. On Inauguration Day alone, he signed 26 executive orders, including reversing 78 orders and actions put forth during the Biden administration, withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO), and revoking birthright citizenship. However, some of his most impactful orders have been focused on targeting transgender individuals, one of which concerns the highly debated issue: should trans women be allowed in women’s sports?
Trump says no. According to NBC News, he signed the executive order banning trans females from participating in women’s sports on February 5th. The NCAA, the nonprofit organization regulating collegiate student athletes, quickly followed suit and has also barred trans women and girls from participating in NCAA
women’s events. “The radical left has waged an all-out campaign to erase the very concept of biological sex and replace it with a militant transgender ideology. With this executive order, the war on women’s sports is over,”
Trump proclaimed at the White House following the order. He claimed that the order is meant to prevent trans women from “stealing” victories from women in sports, and that any trans woman who attempts to participate in women’s sports will be investigated for “fraud.”
So why the debate? Many argue that trans women—being born with male bodies— have an unfair advantage over biologically female women. A more radical approach to this view, and the one that Trump appears to align with, is that trans women are not women at all; many with this belief argue that it’s unfair to let “men” compete against biological women. But when
you look at the numbers, not many trans women are winning national titles or “beating out” biological females in the first place. In the NCAA, swimmer Lia Thomas is the only openly transgender athlete to ever win a Division I national championship; she was later barred from competing in other national events. When looking deeper into her win in 2022, Thomas had begun taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) over two years before claiming the title, using hormones to alter physical characteristics and closer align with her gender identity; this caused Thomas to lose muscle mass as well as her speed, leading to slower swim times. She was later sued by her opponents for her history-making win and is in danger of that title being removed from the record books. Still, she sparked a fiery debate over the fairness of trans women in competitive sports, one
Musk And Trump: Disruption Or Order?
by Ava Wittreich, Ridellion Reporter
Everyone now knows Elon Musk, a renowned businessman involved in Tesla and Space X, X (formerly known as Twitter). And everyone knows the American politician, media personality, and businessman who is the 47th president of the United States. But how are the duo really contributing politically, and how will this affect our society? Since the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as the president of the United States, both he and Elon Musk have been at the forefront of numerous significant actions and initiatives. Let’s break down everything that has happened since his inauguration.
First, Trump ended the federal government’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs (DEI), organizational frameworks that seek to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people. DEI programs have been part of the workplace to ensure fairer representation for groups seen as historically marginalized, such as African Americans, the LGBTQIA+ community, women, disabled people, and other minorities in the US. Under Trump, all DEI workers have been put on temporary paid leave and the administration has ordered a review of federal grants to ensure that they aren’t funding any DEI initiatives. Trump justifies dismantling this important institution, which is vital to ensuring everyone has fair opportunities in the workforce, by claiming, “My administration has taken action to abolish all discriminatory diversity, equity, and inclusion nonsense – and these are policies that were absolute nonsense –throughout the government and the private sector.” This “nonsense” has been utilized by 43% of companies within the United States, according to Forbes, to create a more welcoming and inclusive en-
vironment. Now, some of the nation’s biggest corporations such as Target and Walmart have retracted their DEI initiatives. Elon Musk asserts that “DEI is just another word for racism. Shame on anyone who uses it,” though 80% of American employees want their company’s values to include DEI programs.
Next, Trump has issued mass layoffs among government employees leading to confusion and legal challenges from unions and federal workers after U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper decided he could not grant a motion to block this initiative. This led to the new “Department of Government Efficiency” or DOGE, which is headed by billionaire Elon Musk, claiming they are firing workers on the grounds that these workers have “poor performance” and “skills not aligned with needs,” which is beginning to stir lawsuits with former federal workers. Musk further promotes a post on X, stating, “Projected DOGE savings now near $110 billion or over $700 per American taxpayer. And we’re just getting started...” This claim though is misleading, as this “clock” is a projected outcome, but the estimated $55 billion is double DOGE’s real amount of income. In Musk and Trump’s efforts to slash the federal workforce, around 28,000 American workers have lost their federal jobs as of February 22nd. Another controversy with this is that Elon Musk now has access to the treasury department; many people argue that Musk shouldn’t be able to witness individual taxpayer dollars, in the name of protecting privacy and security. And that’s not all. Concerning international relations, Trump has continued close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin without involving Ukraine or other European
that was rekindled due to Trump’s executive order. It appears noble of Trump to increase the fairness of women’s sports; he signed the order on National Women in Sports Day, claiming he was effectively “protecting” female athletes. Alone, this order would point to Trump solely being a heroic protector of women’s rights. However, his other executive orders prove differently: his administration has already repeatedly targeted transgender people in the short time he has been in office this term. His other executive orders prohibit all federal agencies and employees from recognizing any individual’s gender identity that does not align with their biological sex, and for all federal documents (i.e. passports) to reflect biological sex as well. He defines “sex” as “an immutable binary classification determined at conception.” He also passed orders
limiting access to gen der-af firming care, es pecial ly for people under 19, and prohibiting openly trans individuals from serving in the military. Many argue that he is not an advocate for women’s rights but is instead using that guise to attack the transgender community; the trans community does not largely appear to be a threat to national security or welfare, yet targeting it appears to be Trump’s priority. Whether or not banning trans women from women’s sports is fair for anybody, one thing is clear: tolerance and acceptance of the transgender community is no longer a policy that the US government wishes to uphold.
Fight For Safer Streets
by Abdullah Elzawawy, Ridellion Reporter
continued from page 3
countries. Trump currently blames Ukraine for starting the Russian-Ukranian war (which is factually inaccurate) and called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to hold elections. Moreover, Trump has introduced tariffs on trade with Canada, Mexico, and China, prompting retaliatory measures from these countries. These countries continue to show their disapproval of Trump’s supposed efforts to “stop the flow of fentanyl, and illegal migrants into our country,” but the full effects of these tariffs have yet to be seen. On the lines of foreign policy, Trump’s immigration tactic is declaring a national emergency at the southern border and sending troops through the Department of Defense, as well as implementing expanded drone use for surveillance over Mexico. Musk has commented on this, and claimed on X that his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), “just discovered” that the Federal Emergency Management Agency had sent $59 million to luxury New York City hotels to “house illegal migrants,” when in reality the money was sent to the government of NYC to provide accommodations for the Shelter and Services program to help state and local governments and non-profits to house migrants and the city rejects to the claim of “luxury hotels.” Trump plans to use aggressive tactics to rapidly deport 12 million people by 2026, but it is too early to know if he will hit that margin.
Since the beginning of Trump’s second term, both he and Musk have been involved in a series of impactful and often controversial actions, leading Americans to wonder if, or even when, these actions will directly affect their individual lives.
tributing it to River Dell juniors and seniors who drive, then expanding it to Oradell and River Edge’s community page. The response was overwhelming. Over 160 people participated, sharing their concerns and experiences. I then met with a councilman one-on-one to discuss our efforts. That meeting helped shape my approach for what was to come. Armed with data and approval, we prepared for the second council meeting.
And that was how I found myself in what I can only describe as one of the most grueling town council meetings known to mankind. Imagine sitting in a stiff, cold metal chair under the overwhelming beam of bright lights, surrounded by people quadruple your age, listening to monotone discussions about your town’s budget or recent events that seem to drag on for eternity. Every once in a while, you could hear a cough, the shuffle of papers, the occasional throat clearing, or that sniffle sound people make when they are just mildly congested. One whole hour had already passed before I could stand before the mayor and council.
When I finally got to speak, I presented the results of the traffic survey. To my surprise, the council actually listened. We presented the consideration for adopting the Complete and Green Streets Policy. This policy would act as a framework for municipalities to make real safety improvements and, more importantly, make it easier to secure grant funding for infrastructure projects.
After that meeting, a
different councilman approached me, showing particular interest in what we were doing. They asked questions, wanted to learn more, and seemed genuinely invested in the possibility of making changes. It was a sign that our work was gaining traction.
As much as we worked with our local council, I sought to also investigate what neighboring towns were doing. I recently had the opportunity to virtually meet with high schoolers from Fort Lee High School, Henry DeJesus and Abigail Lee, with the same interests as me, and we are now sharing resources and strategies to push for safer streets in our towns. We are also looking to launch a youth division within Bergen County Complete Streets—one specifically for Gen Z. The goal? To create a network where students from different towns can collaborate, share what works, and support each other. We will be launching social media accounts and a potential server where anyone can join the movement. If one town successfully implements a safety policy, we can use that as proof to convince other towns to follow suit.
Looking back, it is surreal to think that all of this started with me mindlessly scrolling through YouTube during COVID boredom. Even though our efforts are still technically on a local level, the more people involved, especially from younger generations, will only cause us to grow from here. And if that means sitting through more town council meetings, then so be it.
Robotics Club Makes River Dell Proud!
by Rida Desai, Ridellion Reporter
From making it to the First Tech Challenge World Championship in the 23-24 season to the hard-working teams that have sprouted up this year, the RDHS Robotics Club is incredibly inspiring. The two teams, Hypnotic Robotics and Bad Wolf compete in the First Tech Challenge (FTC), an international competition where teams build robots and compete in different challenges to score points and advance in rankings. Due to increased interest in the club this year, RD has two teams, Hypnotic Robotics and Bad Wolf. The 24-25 FTC season was Bad Wolf’s returning year as an active team. They were initially active in 2013, and the team was discontinued due to the decrease in the number of members in
the club. This year,however, the influx of new members required the club leaders to re-open the team! In their rookie season, Bad Wolf created an amazing, creatively designed and efficient robot. They experienced small mishaps on the field, but the team is incredibly adaptable and fixes any issues with composure and teamwork. The team had an incredible season this year, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for the 25-26 game!
The second team,
Hypnotic Robotics, had their rookie year in 2010 and has been a constant presence in the FTC community since then. Last year, the team went to the World Championships in Houston, Texas, through innovative engineering and a strong sense of
teamwork. And no surprise, they are at it again this year! They faced this year’s meets with gracious professionalism and an effective and reliable strategy. Their hard work and determination led them to receive the prestigious “Inspire Award” at their most recent meet, leading them to compete at the State Competition. Despite being knocked out in the fourth of six rounds during the state competition, the team worked unrelentingly hard and helpd their own against the fierce competition as they closedout yet another impressive season. River Dell’s Robotics Club is full of dedicated students who not only are skilled at their craft but also work skillfully as a team. Both teams have done incredible
work this season and will continue to work harder as
the year goes on. This club is the true embodiment of diligence and team spirit.
Greenland in 2025: Battling Climate Change and Control
by Michelle Kim, Ridellion Reporter
Known for its glaciers and its freezing climate, the world’s largest island is no doubt a striking place to visit. A self-governed country with respect for its natural landscape, Greenland is home to rare and beautiful whales, reindeer, polar bears, and musk oxen. Most notably, it is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. One could say that Greenland’s inhabitants are living the perfect life. In 2025, though, as global warming is worsening and President Trump is moving in on the territory, Greenland is facing grim circumstances—both economically and geopolitically. Greenland is well known for its beautiful icebergs and fjords. However, ever since global warming became a pronounced and threatening issue globally, Greenland’s icy surface has been severely impacted. From the 1990s to 2022, scientists researched and speculated that the Greenland ice cap is losing an average of 30
million tons of floating ice per hour. Due to this huge constantly melting mass of water, freshwater is constantly flowing into the ocean. This is a huge problem, especially for the North Atlantic Ocean. Freshwater entering the Atlantic Ocean can affect the entire circulation of the body of water. An ocean circulation is a system of ocean currents that circulates water within the Atlantic Ocean. Dumping large amounts of freshwater into the ocean sends warm water to the north and cold water to the south. With glaciers and ice sheets constantly melting away, another problem arises: much wildlife is losing its natural habitat. Every day, ice in Greenland is
reduced, which means that polar bears no longer have a firm surface to stand on during their hunt. Additionally, animals like the musk oxen become vulnerable to disease and parasites when exposed to warmer temperatures because of malnutrition. They normally use
their muzzle to reach the food buried under the snow, but once the snow melts and freezes again, a layer of ice prevents the musk oxen from reaching the plants. With the temperature growing warmer and warmer every year, these
animals are forced to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings. Some of them will be unable to adapt before it’s too late. As if environmental issues weren’t enough, Greenland also faces a parallel issue with its geopolitical status, particularly after the inauguration of President Trump. President Trump has been considering buying Greenland from Denmark multiple times—starting in 2019. He expresses interest in Greenland for multiple reasons; notably, the island’s rare minerals and national security purposes make it an attractive territory to gain. When Denmark and Greenland both declared that Greenland was not for sale, President Trump promised that he wouldn’t use force to get what he wanted. How-
Trump Makes Changes to National Policies
by Michelle Kim, Ridellion Reporter
Source: Brookings Institution
On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump returned to office as the 47th president of the United States. To thousands of people in the room and the viewers on the screen, he proclaimed that his second presidency would be one to remember. Notably, he mentioned passing a multitude of laws and making
many surprising changes, such as cutting funding for DEI, education, and medical research.
DEI is an umbrella term for diversity, equity, and inclusion. This concept is about all people receiving fair treatment and opportunities, regardless of their gender, race, or abilities. It was meant to give everyone a chance to succeed in life, feel supported by their peers, and feel comfortable in their environment. DEI practices began after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 under Lyndon B. Johnson, but they only started picking up in 2020, when DEI pro-
grams flew off the charts in number and effort. However, on the day of President Trump’s inauguration, he issued an executive order terminating illegal DEI policies and activities in the Federal Government. Agencies are ordered to place employees of DEIA offices on paid administrative leave and were also commanded to take down websites and terminate contractors related to DEIA. Trump’s policy no doubt brought huge changes to companies related to DEI efforts.
In his inauguration speech, President Donald Trump also proposed to shut down the U.S. Department of Education. Many schools are terrified upon
hearing this news, as millions of dollars per year are typically spent on education funding. Many believe that this funding is necessary for domestic literacy and graduation rates to stay up. Most importantly, 87 million students and parents rely on federal student loans. With the Department of Education gone, students and families with a low socioeconomic status will be at an immediate disadvantage. Some fear that this will exacerbate the gap between the rich and poor in a never-ending cycle. Although the government would save money by cutting their budget, this doesn’t guarantee efficiency in education. Without data and analogies, teach-
ever, Denmark and Greenland are still concerned that Trump’s interest in the territory is not completely finished. 85% of Greenlanders are still dissatisfied with Trump’s proposal. They are afraid that an exchange of ownership of their country will mean a loss of their Greenlandic identity. Some predict that their home will be turned into a geopolitical hotspot. To add to Trump’s goal, Representative Buddy Carter of Georgia introduced a bill that if Trump were to obtain Greenland, Greenland would now be known as “Red, White, and Blueland.” While this sounds ridiculous, it demonstrates the very real cultural hegemony that Greenland may experience upon this exchange of ownership. It’s unclear whether Trump will really buy Greenland or not, but for now, the issues that Greenland faces are enough to make the nation waver economically, socially, and geopolitically.
ers will not be able to understand where their students are at and what they’re struggling with.
President Trump’s proposal also impacts research as well, especially in the medical field. Hospitals and clinics spend millions of dollars on research in areas like cancer and genetic diseases. With their funding reduced, their opportunities for research may be limited. Many, like professors in the medical field are not satisfied with Trump’s ideas. They believe that with less fundings for research, there is slower development of new treatments and tools. It is unclear for now whether cutting education and research funds will be the right decision.
From Classrooms To Battlefields: Students Embark On A Journey To Gettysburg
by Emma Pulumbarit, Ridellion Reporter
Picture this: before you lies a vast, open field glittering with wild grasses swaying in the breeze, adorned with majestic hills standing proudly in the distance. Amidst the lush meadows and babbling streams meandering through the land, across the expansive pastures and cultivated fields, and along the dense woods rimming the area, it is almost inconceivable to imagine that this very place was once the site of the bloodiest battle in American history.
Aside from the grand monuments and statues honoring the location’s significance, Gettysburg National Military Park looks remarkably different from how it appeared back on July 3, 1863,during the Battle of Gettysburg. Such a culturally rich area—the park as well as the town—serves to be the perfect place to delve not only into American history but also into extremely invaluable life lessons as well. Fortunately, River Dell’s Hospitality & Tourism and US History I classes are
given an immersive learning opportunity to visit Gettysburg, PA, for an overnight trip on May 19th-20th. As the students reside at Hotel Gettysburg and explore the area, they will be able to apply what they’ve learned into real-life situations and deepen their understanding of the travel and tourism industries, how National Parks operate, the significance of the American Civil War, and the impact history has on the world and people today.
First and foremost, the Gettysburg National Military Park preserves, protects, and interprets the Battle of Gettysburg. During the American Civil War (1861-1865), great divide and tensions over slavery led to significant bloodshed. The Union Army fought to not only preserve the nation but to abolish slavery, while the Confederate Army fought to conserve the Southern way of life, including slavery. The battle took place on July 1st, 1863, where Confederate General Robert E. Lee invaded the North by marching into Pennsylvania, hoping to destroy the Union in a final battle, discourage Northerners, achieve recognition of the Confederacy, and ultimately win the American Civil War. Up until this point, the Confederacy had been successful in most battles and was at the height of their morale. However, during this three-day battle, the Confederacy was unable to overcome the Union’s strong defense. With 50,000 estimated casualties on both sides, Lee’s invasionwas eventually over, and the Union emerged victorious. The Battle of Gettysburg marked a
drastic turning point in U.S. history.
And now, US History I students will get the opportunity to understand how and why this historic battle occurred from outside their textbooks. Through educational tours of the battlefield and historical sites, reenactments and workshops, tours of monuments and museums as well as outdoor recreational activities like ghost tours and nature trails, the students will be able to appreciate American history from a new perspective. They can apply their historical knowledge and visit various tourist attractions such as the National Military Park, the Battlefield and Museum, the Eisenhower National Historic Site, and Jennie Wade House.
In addition, this trip to Gettysburg will not only enhance students’ understanding of the past but also showcase the hospitality and tourism industry as well. Hotel Gettysburg, located in Lincoln square, appeals
culturally to many tourists by incorporating history into all of its accommodations. Curating a collection of thoughtful amenities like the Lincoln-themed dining, this hotel takes great pride in its rich heritage. Simultaneously, many businesses thrive on the popularity the history of Gettysburg attracts. In fact, the National Park Service reports that 742,000 visitors in 2024 supported 734 local jobs and contributed $88.5 million to the local economy. These parks and communities positively impact the area, providing stable jobs while allowing locals to share their cultural and historical pride. Thus, students will experience the unique hospitality of Gettysburg, the impact of travel on the local economy, and the local events and festivals first-hand. Most importantly, students tour the streets of the town and interview locals in-person themselves! They will be able to gain lots of personal insight as to how tourism affects their daily
Luigi Mangione: Profits Over People
by Alessia Guttilla, Ridellion Editor
From being the valedictorian of his high school to graduating from the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione seemed to have a bright future ahead of him only a couple of months ago. However, this trajectory was suddenly altered when he was arrested five days after shooting the CEO of UnitedHealthcare Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024. The murder took place in front of the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Prior to the crime, Luigi Mangione had stalked Brian Thompson for several months, during which he traveled to New York to find the precise location where Thompson would be on the morning of December 4, 2024, which was at a company investor’s meeting at the Hilton Hotel. When it was time to execute his plan, he arrived in New York on November 24 and checked into the Upper
West Side Hotel. He biked to West 54th Street and Sixth Avenue where he saw Thompson arriving for his conference and proceeded to shoot him, first in the back and then in his leg. Then, Mangione biked away through Central Park. He fled all the way to Altoona, Pennsylvania, where he was arrested and eventually faced state charges from New York and Pennsylvania, along with other federal charges like firstdegree murder, stalking, and criminal possession of a weapon in the third, second, and forth degree. He pleaded not guilty to the charges made against him by the New York Supreme Court. On December 23, he was flown into New York after doing away with his right to an extradition hearing. The federal charges against him are severe enough that the death penalty is very much a possibility, and he is currently
being held in federal prison. During his New York court hearing on February 21 many supporters had gathered outside with posters stating, “Free Luigi!” Mangione arrived in a bulletproof vest and shackles. His attorney Karen Agnifilo is in the process of collecting evidence for his case, as he’s up for the death penalty or a life sentence without the possibility of parole. His next hearing is on June 26, where more answers about Mangione’s fate will be determined.
Members of the public have taken an interest in Mangione’s case, considering that the U.S. healthcare system has been a controversial topic that has angered many Americans for years. Americans have been fed up with having to deal with difficult insurance companies who refuse to give medication or deny healthcare services to people in need. Some want to defend Luigi for taking
a stand on this matter. However, this is only Mangione’s suspected motive; he has yet to speak upon the real reason he decided to kill Thompson.
lives.
To conclude, there is so much to learn and experience on this spring’s trip to Gettysburg. Students are excited about the overnight field trip with friends, and they feel extremely grateful for the immersive opportunity to learn more about hospitality, tourism, and history. Venturing on a journey from classrooms to historic battlefields is sure to create an unforgettable experience for all. Of course, this trip is only the beginning. There is always more to learn, more to explore, and more to experience beyond the classroom and beyond this visit. So, to all the students attending the trip, I hope that when you gaze upon the beauties of Gettysburg you feel enriched with all that you have learned on your adventure. Embrace new opportunities, gain more knowledge, and foster new connections. Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a life-changing adventure to Gettysburg!
Members of the public have started a GoSendMe donation page to defend Mangione, which has raised more than $425,000. Mangione’s defense team notified the public that Luigi is aware of the money being raised, and he said he “very much appreciated the outpouring of support” and is “planning on utilizing it to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him.” Continuing, his defense team created their own website called “Luigi Mangione Legal Defense Information” to give accurate and
Source: SILive
up-to-date information on Luigi’s case due to the overwhelming interest. Millions of Americans across the country face problems with the insurance and healthcare system that have cost them their lives. When considering Mangione’s unique case, the following question must be posed: when, if ever, is such violence justified, even if the cause is valid? All it takes is one person on the jury to find him not guilty, and he will be a free man.
The Fields of Gettysburg National Military Park at Sunset
Dr. Chu Promotes Female Diversity
by Seoyeon Kim, Ridellion Reporter
Congratulations to Dr. Chu, the beloved River Dell Regional High School staff member who not only teaches AP Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science A, and Science Research, but also advises the Girls Who Code Club and Wellness Club!
Recently, Dr. Chu was recognized with the College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award, which acknowledges schools that expand young women’s access to AP Computer Science courses. Dr. Chu describes that he is fo-
cusing on problem-solving, reframing computer science as a universal skill rather than just programming. By focusing on how to approach challenges efficiently, describing how “class is just practicing how to be a good problem solver,” his students can develop critical thinking skills that can be applied across other areas in life. His approach has also paved the way for greater inclusivity outside of classrooms. Dr. Chu said Girls Who Code has helped him in creating a supportive space where female students can
thrive. By challenging stereotypes and emphasizing problem-solving, GWC empowers students in classes like AP Computer Science Principles and helps them gain confidence in something new. With the evolution of artificial intelligence, Dr. Chu believes mastering content has become less important than developing strong problem-solving abilities and intends to prepare all students to flourish in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Chu hopes the inclusivity and innovation in his computer science classes can become a tool for everyone to succeed.
A River Dell Freshman’s First Semester In Review
by Rida Desai, Ridellion Reporter
The first few days of high school are like a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs, twists and turns. For freshmen, adjusting to the new and strenuous environment takes weeks, or even months. Now that the second marking period has ended, it is time for ninth graders to reflect on their first semester of high school. Let’s see what some say about the first half of the 24-25 school year. It is plain to see the immense pressure that accompanies the beginning of ninth grade. Freshman Lillian Schnackenberg found that “I had a lot more responsibility than ever and got extremely stressed. Along with that, I was put in a lot of honors classes that were harder and carried more assign-
ments.” It seems that the consensus among freshmen is that there is a lot of coursework! Ninth grader Parthiv Arun agrees with Lillian, saying that, “High School is very challenging both with the coursework and with the overall change from middle school.” Alongside this, in my personal experience throughout the first semester, I have found the courses and extracurriculars to be both workheavy and exciting. There is no doubt that the high school environment is a stressful one. However, most freshmen agree that it has been an incredible start, especially with the jump from middle school to high school. Middle school seems far behind as the class of 2028 passes the halfway
point of their first year. Eighth grade can be considered a stepping-stone for grades nine through twelve. Yet, there is a question that must be answered: how tough is the jump from middle to high school? Overall, it seems that the biggest difference is the level of independence given to students. Lillian mentions “In middle school, they [teachers] would constantly be on top of us. Here you must manage your work independently.” So, even though independence is a step towards the journey of maturity that the high school years produce, it is a complicated and confusing process to transition into. Coming from a space where most assignments and other schoolwork were planned ac-
cording to teachers, it is incredibly different from the high school setting, in which teachers encourage students to find their own rhythm. Freshman Tommy Cook also believes that “In high school, we are given more freedom to make choices. In middle school, there was only a choice between Band or Chorus. Now in high school, we can take any class, from psychology to writing for the screen. Splitting your time evenly throughout the day is also important, since you must balance classes and clubs.” Once again, many agree on the importance of time management. When balancing extracurricular activities with classes, it is of utmost importance to not spread yourself thin and rec-
PSAT Catches Class of 2027 by a Storm!
by Delilah Recio, Ridellion Editor
The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test, otherwise known as the PSAT, has been administered to sophomores for 5 years at RDHS. This past October, the class of 2026 had the opportunity to take the test, helping them identify their strengths and weaknesses to give them insight into the SAT. This March 22, the class of 2027 will also have the opportunity to practice and familiarize themselves with the format of the SAT for their junior year. Although River Dell provides their student body with this exam, many sophomores and freshmen who are planning for next year may wonder if it is worth the stress, time, and money so early on in their high school careers. Ayca Avcioglu, sophomore at River Dell, explained her haste to sign up for this year’s exam: “When I found out that the PSAT was being offered to sophomores, I quickly told my dad about it, and I paid the fee. I don’t want to go into the SAT next year blindsided, and I want to score high since junior year is an important year for college applications.” For sophomores taking it in the spring, they must pay
a $40 fee to register for the Saturday morning exam starting at 7:15 sharp. Some students are apprehensive about sacrificing their Saturday to take an optional two-hour exam that will not affect their college applications. However, others are rushing to the main office to pay the fee and grab a seat for this year’s digital PSAT. Mrs. Luberto, River Dell’s senior options coordinator, shares the significance of taking the exam, believing that it could benefit students down the road in their academic career. She states, “I think the PSAT is a great opportunity to learn how to sit for a timed test where each section is between 64 to 70 minutes with breaks. While we have the NJGPA testing, there are more questions on the PSAT and SAT. And while many colleges are test optional, they’re going back to requiring standardized test scores. It’s still a great tool for students to learn how to sit and test out of something. Regardless, standardized tests are something that you must do in college either way, and I find that sophomores are more eager to take these tests.” Normally, about 200 to 220 sopho-
mores do end up taking the PSAT 10 during the spring.
PSATs are comprised of a reading and writing section and a math section. When it comes to the reading section, Barron’s PSAT booklet shares that it’s best to take your time for each answer. The PSAT Reading Test has only about 3,000 words in the various reading passages and 47 questions. However, it gives you a full 60 minutes to finish. There are a total of five passages: one literature, two historical/social sciences, and two science passages. In the writing and language section (35 minutes), there are four passages that could cover the following topics: careers, humanities, social science/history, and science. The math section involves applying quantitative critical thinking skills. The test is divided into two subsections: a 45-minute calculator-permitted section with 31 questions and a 25-minute non-calculator section with 17 questions. Ultimately, when it comes to the PSAT, students shouldn’t stress over the exam. It’s meant to reveal the format of the actual SAT, which could only set students up for success. Luberto adds, “For those who struggle with
anxiety, it might help students to go through a couple of sample tests. There are some students who would benefit from seeing how the test is structured ahead of time. Other students, however, could care less, and they perform the same. There are some students that need to mentally prepare themselves, and this PSAT 10 is the perfect opportunity to come in with no preparation just to see how you would do as a straight baseline. It gives information that shows a student where they need to work on.”
ognize your limits. All in all, the leap from eighth to ninth grade was not an easy one and came with many realizations. All things considered, the first semester of high school for the class of 2028 came and went in a blur. It was full of uncertainties and became a discovery process for everyone who was trying to find their way in the once-unfamiliar halls of RDHS. The first two marking periods, though undoubtedly difficult and anxiety-inducing, became a great experience for many members of the ninth grade. It is hard to believe that the first three quarters of the 2425 school year are over, and I’m certain the last marking period is sure to hold even more exciting opportunities.
That being said, when taking the test in the spring, students shouldn’t feel the need to prepare for it. It’s similar to a diagnostic test, to show students where they are. However, there are some students who want to be prepared to get a high score. Siena Rieken, who took the
PSAT last March, claimed, “I completed a four-week course to prepare for the test. It helped me understand the format and what to expect with practice questions.” In Fall of 2023, College Board announced that the test has gone digital, allowing students to stay accustomed to the technological format of the SAT that is also being distributed on the computer. In March 2024, 99.8% of SAT digital testtakers successfully submitted their results on College Board’s digital testing app, Bluebook. Additionally, they share that over 400,000 students took the digital SAT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9 last year. This new format has been successful for students all over the country, and it’s not going to stop at RDHS.
Nuclear Fusion: An Introduction to A Clean Future
by Hannah Yun
Until recent decades, society has relied on unrenewable fossil fuels for energy. However, the destructive effects of fossil fuels pose a dire need for a clean energy source. Although fission energy emerged as a clean energy source, researchers discovered an even better solution: nuclear fusion.
What is nuclear fusion?
Nuclear fusion is the process in which a massive amount of energy is formed while two lighter nuclei combine. Nuclear fusion is a phenomenon that exists in nature. 20th century scientists noticed that the sun had nuclear fusion reactions. People from all over the globe quickly became fasci-
nated with nuclear fusion. Nuclear fusion involves deuterium and tritium, which are hydrogen isotopes. Once the two isotopes fuse together, a large amount of energy is released. Nuclear fusion is a chain reaction that occurs over and over again. Since hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, deuterium and tritium are abundant. This means that there is so much deuterium and tritium on Earth, fusion reactions can continue to happen for millions of years. Problem
Although successful fusion experiments occurred, there is one remaining issue: the energy produced cannot be controlled. Without the ability to control the actual energy released from nuclear fusion, there is no safe way to utilize this energy. In fact, scientists were able to create an extremely successful fusion experiment in 2022, which was the first experiment that generated more energy than it used. Despite the progress, it is predicted
that nuclear energy will not be controlled until around 2050.
Fusion vs. Fission
It is crucial not to get confused between nuclear fusion and nuclear fission. While nuclear fusion is still a study in progress, nuclear fission is a widely utilized energy source today. Fission energy fuels many military weapons, and there are major fission plants across the globe. The main difference between fusion and fission is that fission is when a heavier nucleus divides into smaller ones. Contrastingly, fusion is when lighter nuclei combine into a heavier one.
Imagine a large, fragile glass vase (the heavy atom, like uranium). Fission is like hitting that vase with a hammer (a neutron), causing it to shatter into smaller pieces (lighter atoms), and releasing energy in the process.
On the other hand, imagine taking two small drops of water (light atoms, like hydrogen) and forcing them together to form a larger drop (a heavier atom, like helium). Fusion is like that
process, where the joining of the drop releases energy.
The Future of Fusion Energy
Scientists are on a hunt to find a safe approach to storing nuclear fusion energy. There have been two main experimental approaches: 1. Magnetic confinement a. Uses strong magnetic fields to contain hot plasma
2. Inertial confinement a. Compresses a small pellet containing fusion fuel to extremely high densities using strong lasers/particle beams Once fusion energy can safely be controlled, it can revolutionize the energy industry. Fusion energy has the power to replace fossil fuels for a cleaner, healthier world.
RDHS Literary Magazine Inspires Student Creativity
by Evy Baek, Ridellion Reporter
In 2022, Robert Allen won in the Colorado State Fair Fine Arts Competition for his piece “Théâtre D’opéra Spatial,” a surreal digital illustration featuring a futuristic spin on a classical style painting. It was generated via Midjourney. Debates have sprung over whether AI will replace writers in the near future. But even before the advancement of AI, artists and writers everywhere have faced the ever-looming fear of losing their jobs, and if you’ve ever considered becoming an artist or a writer, you have had to contend with the judgment of those who consider a B.A. in Fine Arts or Creative Writing to be “useless” or “wasteful.”
Yet, art education and publication continue to be a vital part of society’s growth and prosperity, from the buildings we live in to the set designers and screenwriters working on the films we enjoy. Artists continue to stride forward in their expressions and visions of creativity, especially in schools where students have the opportunity to explore their capabilities and passions.
The River Dell High School Literary Magazine, run by Ms. Silverman, is a microscope on River Dell’s budding artist community, thriving with the works of various student writers, artists, and photographers who have the chance to publish
and gain exposure before they even leave high school. The magazine is a haven for those who want to freely share their ideas and perspectives with the larger community, especially when they may not be able to fit an art or creative writing class into their busy schedules. Hundreds of students brimming with creativity buzz in these hallways, and the Literary Magazine exemplifies some of its best minds who dare to share their voice and shed light on their unique perspectives.
For instance, River Dell sophomore Sophie Simonyan wanted to challenge and expand her own artistic abilities in her illustration “Symphony in Red,” combining her love of music and art to create something she says, “… all came together just right, ethereal and simple.” Being inspired by an image of Kate Bush, this piece was a way for Sophie to find the fun and enjoyment in art, especially as a piece that may not carry the stress or weight of being assigned by her Drawing and Sculpture class. For Sophie, art is both a way to relax and enjoy herself and a way to surpass her limitations, this piece being the first time she drew a person in intricate detail and holding an object. Likewise, sophomore Casey Morgner paints the memories and adventures of summer with her vibrant
snapshots of various vacations. The first image displays the lake house she has frequented throughout her life, while the other two pictures reveal her experiences of a cruise she took one summer. Through Casey’s photographs, we can see how she captures some of the beautiful yet transient moments in her life, noticing and framing the world in a way another person may not: “I learned…that these memories are something that I want to hold onto forever, and they mean a lot to me.”
Meanwhile, River Dell sophomores Nico Luo and Delilah Recio were both compelled to create their piece by Creative Writing prompts— Nico was inspired by a prompt to write about something sad while Delilah’s poem is based on a prompt to create a story about a hobby in exactly 53 words. Nico pairs his skills in writing and art to convey struggles with mental health and discrimination; the purple goo oozing out of Nico’s cracked face represents internalized feelings as the looming monster in the background, symbolizing his inner voice, adds a sense of “danger and judgment.” Yet, Nico reflects that the monster is “all bark and no bite... What the monster thinks it’s doing is protecting you, but you must train it to better itself (and therefore yourself) to think
better of you.” Nico’s writing and illustration exemplifies the moving and connecting power of art, as he aims to reach out to peers struggling with their mental health and remind them that they are not alone. Addressing the feeling of needing to “fit in” and the bias and hatred he sees in this world, Nico’s art not only allows him to connect with others but also allows him to “truly write [his] emotions, wholeheartedly and freely.” Nico’s goal in his journey as an artist and writer is to “…create art and create stories to touch people’s hearts. I want to create art and create stories to change someone. I want to create art and create stories to move people. In the future, I don’t want people to be so full of hate. I want people to really understand that hate isn’t going to protect people.”
In her poem, “The Magic of Pen to Paper,” Delilah Recio asks the question, “How about writing the passion of putting pen to paper and being able to create a story in your own words?” After losing a close friendship, writing this poem allowed Delilah to express her feelings in words, “I wrote everything down—anger, frustration, isolation, betrayal.” Even when she had a distaste for school-assigned writing, this poem turned writing from “a dreadful activity” to a practice deeply moving for her,
especially as it was a way for her to have control over her thoughts and express her anxieties. For Delilah, writing became “a source of light in the darkness.” In the future, she plans to major in English or journalism, hoping to become an English professor who can uplift and inspire others struggling in their own writing journeys. These four students’ works highlight some of the bright writers and artists folded into the tapestry of River Dell’s student body, from both those who dabble in art to those who know they want to pursue art and writing in the future. These students encourage other artists and writers to focus on perseverance and embracing imperfection: Casey advises, “Don’t stress about getting the perfect pictures and angles; these photos I took weren’t planned—I just happened to see it and take the picture,” while Delilah reminds aspiring writers, “Just pick up the pen and write… Even if you think the story stinks, you can one day build on that particular setting or those particular characters you’ve created to write your next best-seller.”
“Keep working through it, because practice and experience is key. Even if you feel like you want to quit, keep working through it,” Nico says. “You can always look for inspiration, and you can always learn.”
Sources: Graham Lumley, Alamy
Nico Luo Class of 2027
Casey Morgner Class of 2027
Sophie Simonyan Class of 2027
sports & entertainment
RD Winter Trend Report: What is River Dell Wearing?
by Madeleine Krieger, Ridellion Reporter
Winter is finally winding down at River Dell! The cold weather always brings a change in fashion for students, but the chances of seeing a student wearing something other than a hoodie and sweats are almost as low as the temperatures. On a cold and dark morning, most students tend to grab for their hoodie that always “hoodies.” But, as the cold days continue, some students are beginning to venture out of their hoodie collections, and back into familiar sections of their closets. As a last-ditch attempt at curbing seasonal depression, the fashion choices of RD students are becoming more unique, and a refreshing departure from your everyday sweat set. With all said, one might wonder, what is River Dell wearing?
Let’s get the big topic out of the way first, shall we?
Even though student fashion is becoming less dependent on wearing hoodies every day, there’s no denying that the sweatshirt epidemic is real. Everyday, students attempt to combat the freezing temperatures with oversized hoodies, buying them from places like Amazon to Zara. Common favorite hoodie’s
here at River Dell seem to be the Essential Popover Hoodie from Abercrombie, the Feel Good Fleece Hoodie from Hollister, and of course, the Cozy Sweatfleece Perfect Hoodie from Aritzia. The oversized fit, wide color selection, and top-tier comfort draws attention and drains bank accounts quite easily in the winter months.
However, the hoodie is incomplete without its cozy counterpart of course. And what’s a great hoodie, without it’s cozy counterpart?
Sweatpants! These loosefitting comfortable bottoms are a staple in teenage closets. Specifically, students can’t get enough of wide leg fit sweats; perfect for a gloomy January morning. An overwhelming favorite among RD girls is the Feel Good Fleece Wide-Leg Pants from Hollister. They come in every color, and their extrasoft material makes them especially dreamy. Of course, girls also tend to rock several variations of Brandy Mellville sweatpants, as well as the Cozy Sweatfleece Mega Cargo Sweatpant from Aritzia.
Moving on from the comfort of winter outfits, let’s
explore what students wear when they decide to dress up a bit more for the day. We all know the feeling of waking up, staring at the outfit you planned out the night before, and thinking I really don’t want to wear jeans. And just like that, you end up back in the very sweats you promised you would retire for the week. But some ambitious RD students are able to bypass this morning contemplation, and brave the day in a slightly less comfortable outfit.
River Dell girls are no stranger to cute jeans. They especially love more lower-rise denim these days, and some favorites are the Low Rise Parallel Jeans from Motel Rocks, the Superlow from Levi’s, and the Women’s Low Rise Girlfriend Jeans from Pacsun. These darling denims go great with a sweater, hoodie, or even the classic cardigan and tank top combo.
River Dell boys are venturing out as well, into the world of jeans. They often sport baggy jeans or cargos with crewnecks, hoodies, or quarter zips. They particularly enjoy the Classic Hoodie from Essentials, and
the Men’s Dri-fit Crew from Nike. In terms of jeans, a pair of Levi 501’s are always a hit. Winter fashion is never complete without sweaters. River Dell girls tend to gravitate towards lighter knits, like cardigans. Some favorites are the Zoe Cable Knit Cardigan from Brandy Mellville, or the Spongy Button Up Cardigan from Garage. However, it’s not uncommon to see girls dressed in trendy noncardigan knits. The Hollister Comfy Cloud Oversized knits are perfect for a more elevated look, as are the Edikted Women’s Off the Shoulder Oversized Sweater. While boys are less avid sweater wearers, one could occasionally spot a fleeced quarter zip sweater on a brisk morning. The obvious shoe choice on a winter morning is UGGs. Both boys and girls are found in UGGs every day, and one could spot almost any style on any given day. Girls love the UGG Coquette slippers, as well as the Tasman and the Ultra Mini Ugg boot. Boys prefer boots rather than slippers, and the Neumel slipper is a staple of any teenage boy’s
wardrobe. A few days a week, the UGGs must say goodbye because it’s time for gym class. On those days, RD girls resurrect their colorful sneaker collections from the fall, and its common to see an Adidas Campus or Samba in the hallways. The last notable winter trend at River Dell involves a typical symbol of winter style: jackets. And rather than noticing repetition in the types of jackets and coats worn by River Dell students, I’ve noticed the lack thereof. In other words, the trend is to not wear them. In typical teen fashion, jackets are seldom seen being worn by students, even in the mornings when you wonder how this level of cold could even be possible. Every now and then, a brave leader might don an Aritzia SuperPuff. Other than that, it’s safe to say that coats are not cool to RD students. This year’s harsh winter is coming to close and likely taking Uggs and hoodies with it. We can’t wait to see what trends will be blooming this Spring!
Track and Field 2025: Racing Past the Competition!
by Audrey Cho, Ridellion Editor
Track & Field at River Dell High School has always been a prominent sport. Students love participating because it’s one of the biggest athletic divisions in the entire school. However, this year, the turnout for the team has been especially big, and students envision great outcomes for their performances this year. Let’s take a look at what to expect this season.
The general coach for the track and field team in the spring is Coach Urso, and being the coach of this team is no small job. With over 185 students trying out this year, it’s going to be hard to keep the team organized and manageable. However, “as [the season] goes on it gets to be less and less peo-
ple,” explained junior Hailey Yihm, a successful spring track and field runner for the past three years. This sport is not for the faint of heart, so some students who aren’t serious about joining the team might and usually do end up quitting. The team remains a sizable number of athletes throughout the season, even when people do, in fact, drop out at the beginning of the season. Regardless, athletes that do stay on the team prove themselves incredibly successful.
Last year’s performances were particularly strong for the River Dell team. “Being a part of the 4 by 1 was one of the highlights of the season,” said Yihm when asked about the 2024 sea-
son. “We broke the school record, and even got to run at states!” That achievement was not out of the ordinary for River Dell’s formidable team, considering they have always exhibited a strong performance over the years.
Audrey Abella, another junior at River Dell, shares that she hurdles, long jumps, and occasionally performs at relays and sprints. One great thing about the sport is that it allows athletes to participate in multiple events throughout the season, granting them lots of flexibility to experiment in different types of events and activities. Some of the most popular events offered in the sport have been javelin throwing, sprinting, and long distance. However,
there are other events offered, such as pole vaulting and discus throwing that students may also participate in. Many athletes who participated in indoor track in the winter move on to spring track and field when the season ends, due to its similarity in time and practice. Consequently, Coach Burns, who heads the winter track program, ends up passing on a lot of his students at the end of the season to Coach Urso. Practices are both rigorous and fun for the participants. Yihm adds, “At practice, we get split into groups based on our skill level.” These practices include both boys and girls, so athletes get to socialize with their friends while improving their track
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store: An Incentivizing Testament of Communities Coming Together
by Deborah Chun
“It is love and community—heaven and earth—that ultimately sustain us.” –James McBride
James McBride is an award-winning author and musician. He is the author of several best-selling books, such as Deacon King Kong and The Good Lord Bird. His memoir, The Color of Water, published in 1996, has sold millions of copies and is considered a fixture of American literature.
McBride’s most recent novel The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, marketed as a historical fiction and murder mystery, has been named a “Must Read for the Summer” by the New York Times, the
Washington Post, the Boston Globe, Time, AARP, Town & Country, and St. Louis PostDispatch. Ultimately, when you’re reading this story, be aware of two things: 1. This isn’t a murder mystery.
2. The foundation of this narrative is its characters—a reminder of humanity’s love, kindness, and community, regardless of division based on skin color or religion.
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store begins in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, in 1972, with the discovery of a decaying skeleton in the foundations of a new devel-
opment. To answer the perplexing question of who this skeleton belongs to and how it got there, the author pulls us back into the 1920s and ‘30s. We encounter a diverse cast of characters living in Chicken Hill, an area home to the less fortunate—Black, Jewish, and European immigrant communities. Among these residents pursuing the American Dream are the Jewish couple Moshe and Chona Ludlow. Moshe is the Romanian-born theater owner of the first integrated dance hall. Chona is the proud owner of a titular grocery store. As McBride unearths the long-buried tensions of Chicken Hill, he
navigates race, prejudice, and social divides. The novel examines the themes of resilience, compassion, and the unifying power of community in the face of adversity. It is a unique blend of fiction (with a great title, I might add) that is very well-deserving of a five-out-of-five-star rating.
Unfortunately, McBride introduces each character with much info-dumping. For pages and pages, there is a mishmash of character backstories and disconnected tangents in run-on sentences. It was difficult to follow the sequence of events because of this recurring rambling. I found myself often question-
skills and preparing for upcoming competitive meets.
“If you do decide to join spring track, you can always run farther than you think,” said Audrey Abella as a closing remark. As a participant in the sport this season, starting to run or taking part in a new event can be challenging or even overwhelming at first, but it no doubt pays off. “You get to make a lot of close friends, and it’s just really a great experience,” Yihm articulated. Whether students are new to the sport or have been running their whole lives, this year’s spring track and field season is going to be fun, successful, and most of all, rewarding.
Source: NYT
ing, “Where is the plot?” Spoiler Alert: the plot doesn’t come in until page 300-ish.
However, I must grudgingly admit McBride’s infodumping ultimately serves a purpose. His long-winded rambling creates personality, crafting a vivid, immersive community that comes to life as the plot unfolds. The long wait for action is followed by a fulfilling epilogue. This story resolved in a way that made me inexplicably happy. And thus, I rate this 4.5/5 stars.