HEADING, FONT 15, LINE SPACING 0.51, LEAGUE SPARTAN
By Line: League Spartan 10.8
Font Size: 11, Line Spacing: 1.2, Glacial Indifference
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COVER PAGE - ISABELLA
EDITOR’S NOTE AND PTSA - CATI
SMELTZER DEATH - CARLA
BALLET HISTORY - ADRIANA
CREATIVE WRITING - XOCHITL
DIFF HOT CHOCOLATES AROUND THE WORLD - ISABELLA
ANGEL TREE HIGHLIGHT - SERENA
TOYS AND ECON DISPARITIES - MICA
INTERACTIVE - SERENA
Legal Pad Legal Pad
To:M s . Sikes
To:Mr. Smeltzer
To: Mr.Jones
BTo:Mr. enzvi
Link: https://thelawlegalpad com Link: https://tinyurl com/SpanishSep
Dear Readers,
The second I took the last bite of turkey on my Thanksgiving plate, I knew it was finally time to blast Wham!’s “Last Christmas” again. The days are getting shorter, the temperature is dropping, and the houses around my neighbourhood are beginning to get lit up with holiday spirit. The holiday season is officially here. To celebrate, your friends at The Legal Pad have decided to take inspiration from what is arguably the most well-known ballet of all time: Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”
This year is (finally!) coming to an end and we wanted to leave you with one last gift. We wanted to surprise you by creating something short and sweet for this holiday season. In the last 2025 edition of The Legal Pad, we hope to provide the perfect source of entertainment for you to cozy up to this winter.
As the weather begins to cool down, there’s something about December that warms our memories right back up Here at the Legal Pad workshop, we ’ ve been feeling a little sentimental and hope you enjoy a heartfelt farewell to a teacher who makes moments in his classroom unforgettable (“Farewell: Honoring Mr. Ross Smeltzer”). As you sip your hot chocolate, we invite you to travel from Mexico to France to the Philippines and get a taste of different traditions (“A Trip Around the World with Hot Chocolate”) While the holidays are a great way to wind down, take a moment to reflect and be grateful for the things we often take for granted (“Under the Tree, Beyond the Cost”)
As you turn these pages, we encourage you to savor a moment of warmth. Go ahead and curl up under a blanket, play your favorite holiday song, and let the magic of the season (and this issue!) brighten the final days of the year.
With love and Happy Holidays, Micaela Arauz and Serena Herrera
THE POWER OF GIVING: ANGEL TREE FOUNDATION
If you ’ re looking for a way to give back this holiday season, the Angel Tree Foundation can turn your compassion into action, during a time of year that can be especially difficult for families in need At its core, Angel Tree isn’t just about giving back, but the impact and connection individuals can have with each other through gift-giving By matching donors with children who might otherwise go without gifts during the holiday season, Angel Tree ensures that every child feels valued, and included
One of the most important aspects of the program is its ability to bring communities together Individuals, schools, businesses, and workplaces all participate,making a collective effort to bring joy to others' holidays. Through such a simple act, donors can make a direct, and personal impact Additionally, Angel Tree helps relieve financial and emotional stress for families who may be experiencing hardships, unable
By: Antoinette Reilly
to provide a magical Christmas for their child.The Angel Tree Foundation isn’t only impactful during the present. It encourages a culture of empathy that lasts year-round It prompts people to look beyond their own circumstances and extend kindness to others. One woman, named Serena Neel, on TikTok, even went as far as to buy a female Calico kitten for one of her Angel Tree children Neel has blown up for her Angel Tree donations alone, showing how truly special an individual's impact can be, not only for the child receiving the gift but also for viewers inspired to do their own part in donating this holiday season
Ultimately, Angel Tree reminds us that compassion can change lives, and through kindness and a sense of community, the program ensures experiences of the joy and warmth that the holidays are meant to encompass
By: Krystal Ma
“WAFFLES OR PANCAKES?” “WAFFLES OR PANCAKES?”
It’s a question nearly every student who walked into Mr. Smeltzer’s classroom heard at least once usually as the warm-up to deeper discussions, sillier tangents, or the kind of unexpected conversations that made his room feel like a space where learning and humanity coexisted effortlessly. For eight years, those moments shaped the culture of the Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet Now, as Mr Smeltzer prepares to begin his new role in administration at Irving ISD, the campus reflects on all he has brought to the school
His teaching career began in 2015 at Emmett J. Conrad High School before he joined the Law Magnet in 2017. Whether he was guiding students through AP World History, AP Seminar, or AP Research, his classrooms were known for energy, honesty, humor, and a sense of safety students never took for granted
Mr. Smeltzer’s journey began in Chatham, New York, where he grew up before moving to Texas in 2005 He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from Southern Methodist University in 2008, followed by a Master of Social Sciences in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Chicago in 2009. Before becoming a teacher, he explored several careers market research analyst, art gallery manager, writer for a library reference series, and freelance author experiences that later enriched the stories, analogies, and perspectives he brought to his classroom.
Many students shared the memories that shaped their experience with him:
DAMIAH JUAREZ (SENIOR): DAMIAH JUAREZ (SENIOR):
“My favorite thing about Mr Smeltzer is his charisma and ability to give everyone a voice. He started every class with a question, image, or topic that sparked discussion, and he would often ‘manipulate’ us into talking more I loved that he made us comfortable enough to share; what he thought was his salesperson tactics was really just our love for him!”
“My favorite thing about Smeltzer would definitely be the way he has a ‘script’ for each class and how he starts each one with an intriguing picture related to that day’s lesson.”
“Mr Smeltzer’s SEM impression is so funny Mr Smeltzs was someone who I was really able to not stress in his class because he understood my situation and never tried to expect more than I could give sometimes That’s my GOAT, Papa Smeltzs ”
KAYLA QUIROGA (JUNIOR): KAYLA QUIROGA (JUNIOR):
“Mr Smeltzer does more than just teach, he helps you understand and plan what you need to succeed.”
Mr. Smeltzer hard at work was teaching College Transition Photo by Cati Cruz
JIASHUO (MOON) LIU (CLASS OF ’25
GRADUATE):
JIASHUO (MOON) LIU (CLASS OF ’25 GRADUATE):
“My favorite thing from his class was how he always had the silliest questions waiting for us at the start of every class He’s one of those teachers that cares about his students as people above how productive we are, which matters more than anything.”
What made Mr. Smeltzer unforgettable was not just his mastery of content, nor the complexity of the ideas he guided students through It was the atmosphere he built one where students felt seen, where academic pressure softened for a moment, and where the simple act of asking a silly question could open the door to deeper trust and connection.
As he moves into educational leadership at Irving ISD, his impact will only continue to grow. But here at the Law Magnet, he leaves behind a legacy threaded through countless conversations, essays, warm-up questions, and moments where students felt safe enough to think out loud.
KRYSTAL MA (SENIOR): KRYSTAL MA (SENIOR):
“Even with his satire-tinged charisma, he genuinely cares about his students I will miss when he says ‘take care ’ with such sincerity, and the way he has everyone relax and talk about small things like weekends and whether waffles or pancakes are better. He understands the loads we carry and tries his best to ease them, lending an ear and showing genuine interest in our day-to-day lives ”
To Mr. Smeltzer: thank you for the curiosity you sparked, the discussions you led, the patience you offered, and the genuine care you never failed to show
We will miss you deeply And as you always told us take care
Photo by Cati Cruz
UNDER THE TREE, BEYOND THE COST UNDER THE TREE, BEYOND THE COST
“Pokémon Cards!”
“BeyBlades!”
“Friends Heartlake Grand Hotel Lego Set!”
These are just a few of the toys some of my friends remember from their childhoods, but not every child has access to the same toys. Around the holidays, toys are more than just gifts they reflect opportunity, access, and sometimes economic privilege, highlighting the realities shaped by income and neighborhood resources.
Toys play an important role in childhood They spark creativity, encourage problem-solving, and often serve as the first way kids explore social dynamics and teamwork Games and building sets teach strategy and imagination, while action figures or dolls help children role-play and understand the world around them. However, when toys are limited by household income or availability, children may miss out on these learning opportunities. Holidays often make these differences visible: some kids receive brand new toys with the latest features, while others rely on hand-medowns or go without gifts altogether.
By: Nelly Mujica
These differences don’t define a student's abilities or potential, but they do highlight the economic realities many families face. In some homes, buying the newest gaming system or toy gadget may be an everyday possibility In others, parents stretch their budgets to afford basic necessities, leaving gifts as occasional treats rather than guaranteed surprises. Neighborhood resources also play a role: families in communities with strong retail options, libraries, and after school programs have access to more opportunities, while others in undeserved areas may find fewer options available locally Toys, though seemingly small, become a symbol of these wide gaps in access and opportunity
At our Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet, students face some of the same economic dispa seen across the city, b school itself has worke level the playing field Access to programs, resources and a strong academic culture ensu that students can succ regardless of toys or o material items they ma at home This dedicati equity has helped the earn recognition as th Children At Risk Gold School in Texas, highlighting its ability to provide opportunities for all students to thrive
The connection between toys and opportunities may seem small, but it illustrates a larger point: access shapes experience Just as some children grow up with the latest gaming consoles or construction sets, others must find creativity and play in what’s available to them. Here at the Law Magnet, the variety of resources and programs helps fill those gaps, offering hands-on activities, clubs, and projects that encourage problemsolving, collaboration, and innovation
As the Nutcracker shows, toys are more than playthings they are gateways to imagination, stories, and adventure. From Clara’s beloved Nutcracker doll to the army of toy soldiers and dolls at her birthday party, these objects bring joy and spark creativity. But not every child experiences the same magic.
This holiday season, it is worth remembering that while toys and the latest technology are fun and exciting, it’s important to recognize the economic differences they display during the holidays While some unwrap the newest games or gadgets, others go without. Recognizing these differences can help us be grateful for what we have, and more aware of the opportunities that aren’t guaranteed for everyone It’s not about what’s under our colorful Christmas tree, but about appreciating the chance to learn, play, and grow.
Children's toys piled around the Christmas tree waiting for their new owners Photo by Ashima Yadav
Happy Holidays!
A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD WITH
Hot Chocolate
By: Adriana Bautista
Perhaps every seasonal article begins with this classic cliche: it’s that time of year again. We’re all bringing out the winter coats, putting up the Christmas tree, making wishlists, and, naturally, drinking hot chocolate Everyone has tasted the typical powdered hot chocolate variety, though some tastemakers prefer a drink with a more complex flavor profile Whatever your taste may be, I present to you a few examples of how people around the world like their hot chocolate.
MEXICO
Mexican hot chocolate, or chocolate caliente, is one of the few drinks that truly tastes like a warm hug. During the colder months, mothers, grandmothers, and perhaps greatgrandmothers prepare this warm beverage for their families Mexican hot chocolate is distinct for its inclusion of spices like cinnamon and chile, along with its somewhat gritty texture. Many recipes include Abuelita Hot Chocolate, a brand of hot chocolate tablets commercialized in Mexico in 1939 that create the iconic flavor that many enjoy today. This holiday season, my gift to you is my mother’s Mexican hot chocolate recipe, reproduced exactly as she makes it every winter Thank-you gifts can be sent to my home, thank you very much
MOM’S CHOCOLATE CALIENTE
1 Abuelita Chocolate Bar
6 cups water
¼ cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick
½ tsp of salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
FRANCE
The French are known for many things: baguettes, croissants, pan au chocolat, an assortment of other pastries, the Eiffel Tower, and their thick, almost souplike hot chocolate Often described as “velvety,” French hot chocolate, or le chocolat chaud, is made with dark chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor as opposed to the airy sweetness of milk chocolate It uses cream and sometimes whole milk while avoiding water, maintaining the thick texture that defines the drink. What follows is an authentic French hot chocolate recipe from an American ex-pat who’s lived in France for 30 years readers, let us know if the drink lives up to the hype!
LE CHOCOLAT CHAUD BY WELL PLATED BY ERIN
½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons powdered sugar ½ teaspoon espresso powder 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate at least 70%, chopped
Giant bowl of whipped cream for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and espresso powder until small bubbles appear around the edges. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
2. Remove from saucepan from the heat d h
tablets have dissolved. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to froth the mixture Pour into a servingmug and enjoy it warm 2. If desired, add a splash of milk, evaporated milk, or cream.
Hot chocolate is the perfect way to warm up during winter Photo by Cati Cruz
A DANCE THROUGH TIME: TheMagicofthe Nutcracker
By: Isabella Lobo
Ballet, a new form of art, emerged at the luxurious parties of Italian noblemen and women in the mid-16th century Over time, ballet has become known for its graceful and delicate movements, but behind the scenes it requires demanding techniques and a tremendous amount of strength, balance, technical skill, and flexibility. Famous ballets such as Giselle, Swan Lake, and The Sleeping Beauty showcase this artistry, but around this time of year, ballerinas all over the world are preparing for The Nutcracker season
This iconic Christmas ballet was first performed on December 18, 1892, in St. Petersburg, Russia. Th i w d b P t T h ik k d th t w d tation made by ere M I Petipa and Lev rom significant figures in
ACT I
On Christmas Eve in 1816, the ballet begins in a grand Stahlbaum household where a family is decorating a Christmas tree While th parents are busy making the last preparations for their yearly Christmas party, children Clara and her brother Fritz are looking forward to the evening's festivities As the guests arrive, the party begins, and traditional dances bring to life the Christmas spirit. This is until Clara's godfather, Drosselmeier, enters the scene and becomes the life of the party. He distracts the children with mechanical dolls that dance and put on a show, this is where he takes the role of a magical figure for the children As the night go on, Drosselmeyer gives Clara a special present, which turns out to a nutcracker in the form of a soldier Clara is immediately delight but when her brother sees this, he becomes jealous and eventuall breaks it. Drosselmeyer immediately repairs it, the party dies dow and the family goes to sleep for the night.
Clara sneaks down in the middle of the night, concerned for the nutcracker She is unable to sleep but as the clock strikes midnight, the magical night begins The Christmas tree begins to grow, towering over Clara and transforming the room into a mysterious space. Shadows move in a weird way, and the room fills with an army of mice led by the frightening Mouse King The battle continues escalating, and there's no victor in sight Clara intervenes by throwing her slippers at the Mouse King, distracting him long enough for the Nutcracker to claim his victory.
Once the battle is over, the Nutcracker transforms into a charming prince and invites Clara into his kingdom as gratitude for her bravery. They go through a journey,
ACT II
Clara and the Prince arrive at the Kingdom of Sweets, which is ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. The prince tells the fairy about her bravery during battle The Sugar Plum Fairy rewards Clara for saving the Nutcracker's life with a crown The celebration is a clear representation of different nationalities, as it is full of performances of Spanish Chocolate, Arabian Coffee, Chinese Tea, French Marzipan, and Russian Troika, joined by the magnificent Waltz of the Flowers The act features Mother Ginger, a giant gingerbread house that dances in the court, ending Clara’s and the Prince’s magical journey.
THE GREAT FINALE
Different productions manage the ending in multiple ways In some versions Clara wakes up under the Christmas tree which could indicate that everything was a dream In others she stays in the magical world where Clara has finally found a place where she fits in a world of beauty and possibility. This holiday season, you should consider seeing this stunning production at the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House with the Texas Ballet Theatre or the Moody Performance Hall with the Ballet of North Texas.
The Nutcracker has become something more than a performance; it is a representation of pure imagination and creativity which has become a timeless masterpiece.
(TEACHER)
START TO CHRISTMAS
A VERY (TEACHER) START TO CHRISTMAS AVERY
By: Angela Thomas
Instructions: Fill in each blank with a teacher's name to complete the story!
Round and round the train spun as everyone prepared for the holidays searched for the perfect Christmas tree while and decorated the lounge After a semester's worth of hard work, it was finally December, where holiday cheer was all the rave. Break was just a few weeks away, but, in the meantime, why not decorate?
got the garland, the wreaths, and the stockings. Each stocking, made from the softest cotton, was characterized by each teacher’s golden embroidered initials But where to hang them? The teachers' lounge was profoundly small, with no fireplace in sight So, instead of each teacher simply taking the stockings home, decided it was best to hang them over the counter On the counter, made a show stopping mini village, all of whom were in the Holiday spirit. The mini town was brought together by one green stained glass tree with the brightest star on top. When the lights turned off, the little town glowed, illuminating the stockings that stayed above them.
While everyone got a hand in decorating, stayed in the classroom preparing stocking stuffers for their fellow teachers and gift bags for the students Candy canes of the classic variety, little chocolate Santa’s, and sweetest gingerbread men were collected into the
gift bags. There was the occasional homework pass or
thrown in. Classic holiday music rang out into the halls as
prepared everything.
se who don’t celebrate Ch uying the 8 candles since h simply continued to grade ak was completely void of celebrating teachers alike, school work was abso semester of hard work but ACP’s and other final e school
And then, after the decorating was over and the day before December 19th came, everyone was ready to play games. Uno, charades, and bingo were the starting games. got bingo a total of 7 times while got uno 4 times. Food from every culture was passed around as laughter filled the teachers lounge. Some teachers spoke about while others Christmas vacations Essentially a free for all, no topics were skipped
Just as the clock hit 3:30 p.m. , another game, the final game, was introduced name that Christmas song! It was a truly interesting time for all. _________________ went first with the classic “All I want for Christmas is you. ” By Mariah Carey. With an overwhelming show of knowledge, every teacher guessed correctly. Then it was turn, with a voice cracking performance of and guessed it, but everyone else simply enjoyed (or rather endured) the background melody After one more song, Feliz Navidad, the clock struck 4:30 p m The teachers bid one another farewell and a happy new year. And just like that, Winter break had begun.
LP GAMES
By: Harlem Gilbert & Serena Herrera
Link: https://tinyurl com/WordleSep
WHERE’S WHERE’S SMELTZER? SMELTZER?
INSTRUCTIONS:
To find Smeltzer, scan the pages for his shiny head, his glasses, and his pearly white smile Look at each page and scan methodically in sections
There is at least one Smeltzer on every page! How many can you find?
