VOLUME 14 ISSUE 2
NOVEMBER 2017
HAYFIELD HAWKS NEWSMAGAZINE ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22315
Turn to pages 10-13 to read about recent elections and political activism in the Fairfax area
IN THIS ISSUE 3
NOVEMBER 2017
NEWS 5 Teachers are not fairly compensated BY SAM LEBECK
Superintendent sheds light on teacher pay issue
FEATURES learn about eastern education BY SYNDEY HIRT Comparing American education with Asian education
7 Las Vegas shooting heightens BY SAM LEBECK
The increase in mass shootings throughout the country has intensified the debate on gun control
8-9 Student Spotlight Students posses an array of talents ranging from acting, athleticism, scholarship, artistry and poetry
10-11
Political Paradox BY JULIA NAPIER, MAGGIE MARKON & ANNALIESE GRUNDER
Unaware voters in one of the most politically active areas in the country
12-13 Gubernatorial election point-counterpoint
BY ANNALIESE GRUNDER & ALEX SZYMCZAK Ralph Northam’s win provides momentum for Democrats going into the midterm elections, and Ed Gillespie’s loss leaves Republicans wondering where to go from here
OPINION 14
Students will have to pay an unfair fee to take more than six AP exams
17 Shedding light on emetophobia BY SYDNEY HIRT
6 Mr. Grimm visits South Korea to
gun control debate
16 Editorial
American education is not where it needs to be BY LAUREN UPAH
Illuminating the harmful effects of emetophobia
18 Cheers & Jeers Positive or negative events, policies and scores according to the H2N staff
19 Academically inclined students are at a disadvantage
BY LAUREN UPAH
Students who don’t prioritize extracurricular activities are at a disadvantage when applying to college
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 20 Dramahawks produce fall musical rarely attempted by high schools BY LAUREN MILLER Dramahawks will be performing “Rent”, a show that contains many adult themes
21 Staff Recommendations Books, movies, TV shows and music recommended by the writers and designers of H2N
22 Top five up and coming rappers of 2017
BY JAKE MCKINNEY
Showcasing the rappers who will soon be at the top of their industry
America’s education system is falling behind other countries
SPORTS
15 GPA requirements hinder
23 Sports fundraising needs to be
students’ ability to join honor societies BY HIWOT GIDEON
GPA requirements for honor societies bar a lot of capable, motivated students from joining
improved
BY CHRIS MOON
Current methods of fundraising are insufficient in providing sports programs with enough money to make major improvements
4 Patrons VOLUME 14 ISSUE 1
SEPTEMBER 2017
Patron Sponsors Gold ($150+) HAYFIELD HAWKS NEWSMAGAZINE ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22315
Jerry Markon George and Suzanne Eckard
September 2017 - Hayfield Secondary School h2newsmagazine@gmail.com - @h2nNewsmagazine on Twitter
Co-Editor-in-Chiefs
Lauren Miller & Maggie Markon
Design Editors
Jessica Probst, Reda Majid, Brad Pace & Minh Vu
Copy Editor
Sam Lebeck & Erica Schipper
Managing Editors
Julia Napier, Lauren Upah & Chris Moon
Staff Writers Annaliese Grunder Alison Habina Sydney Hirt Hiwot Gideon Jake McKinney Brynn Luskey Jack Patrick Sabriya Abdur-Rahman Mikayla Daba Nevaeh Hill
Designers Cecily Farrell Austen Davis Aby Kassa Xander Guidinetti Esperanza Johnson Adviser Brittany Eckard Principal Martin Grimm
EDITORIAL POLICY H2N is a student-edited publication that aims for objectivity in its reporting and encourages student and faculty input. H2N provides an open forum for student expression. Journalists are responsible for the promotion of responsible journalism and cannot violate the prohibition on written expression, contained in section C of chapter 1 and regulation 2612 of the Fairfax County guidelines. Materials that are considered illegal, libelous or profane by the Editorial Board will not be printed. H2Newsmagazine is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, and the Virginia High School League. H2N is the official student-produced medium of news and information produced and published by Journalism 1-4 students. It will not be reviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisers may coach and discuss content during the writing process, however, student editors make the final decisions of the content. Because school officials do not engage in prior review and the content of H2N is determined by the views of the student staff, its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete legal liability for the content of the publication. H2N does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, nationality or on matters relating to sexuality, religion or political affiliation.
Silver ($45-$149.99) Lynn and Chris Cowart JoAnne Turnage Dave and Leslie Miller
Bronze ($25-$44.99) Steff Shelesky Janette Probst
HAYFIELD ICE HOCKEY TEAM The Hayfield Ice Hockey Club (www.hayfieldicehockey.org) is an independent club, not affiliated with Hayfield Secondary School or Fairfax County Public Schools.
CAPITAL SCHOLASTIC HOCKEY LEAGUE 2016-17 CSHL SOUTH DIVISION CHAMPIONS
(See www.capitalhockey.org for schedules and results. We are teaming with Edison and George Mason High Schools as a combined team)
2017-18 Season is Underway! Remaining Schedule: Friday, Dec 8th 6:30pm vs. Washington-Lee
@ Kettler
Friday, Dec 15th 5:40pm vs. WT Woodson
@ Kettler
Friday, Dec 22 6:00pm vs. Robinson
@ Prince William
nd
Friday, Jan 5
th
9:20pm vs. West Potomac
@ Prince William
Friday, Jan 19th 9:00pm vs WT Woodson
@ Mt. Vernon
Friday, Jan 26th 9:20pm vs TC Williams
@ Prince William
Friday, Feb 2 8:20pm vs Forest Park/Hylton @ Kettler nd
Partial Roster:
#30 Jake Fischer
#24 Colin Short
#29 Chris Moon
NOVEMBER 2017
Feature 5
Teachers ARE NOT fairly compensated
Braband speaking during a conference with student journalists. Photo by Maggie Markon
Samantha Lebeck Copy Editor Teachers shape the future by instilling life skills, values and vital information into today’s youth and setting examples for them daily. Teachers should be making an amount that reflects their crucial roles and their extraordinary work ethic, but many agree that their current salary does not meet this standard. Dr. Scott Braband, the newlyappointed FCPS superintendent, recently addressed the issue of teacher pay and explained what he plans to do in the coming years to improve it in a press conference with student journalists. “[Teacher pay] is going to be my number one priority,” Braband said. “I am going to double down [on the fact that] we need to move teacher pay faster. Classroom to classroom, there are more great teachers in Fairfax County than anywhere else. To get great teachers and keep them, we need to pay them well and make the working conditions of the school the best that they can be.” It is a challenge to hire and retain quality teachers given that the supply of teachers has decreased by high career turnover rates of teachers still early in their career, retirement of longtime teachers and a decline in students choosing to follow a teaching career. While all of these factors are decreasing the flow of teachers into schools, larger student populations are
increasing the demand for teachers. Despite the growing demand, the amount they get paid has remained relatively untouched. In 2015, the wages of public school teachers in the United States were 17 percent lower than other college-educated professionals with the same amount of experience (Washington Post). “I’ve been teaching for 23 years, and I have two degrees,” English teacher Linda Oliva said. “My husband has a GED and does air conditioning and heating work, and we get paid almost the same. It is embarrassing.” In addition to the fact that teachers are not paid enough, they are also not paid in an ideal manner. Teachers are paid monthly, which is easier for distribution but difficult to budget with families to support and bills to pay. “[Getting paid monthly] is hard,” Oliva said. “We don’t get any pay over the summer, and we get our December check right before winter break and don’t get another check until January 31. Budgeting for Christmas can be difficult, and usually I have to put it on my credit card.” FCPS is ranked within the top 10 of the best and most diverse districts in VA, making it appealing for families and teachers alike to move into the district to learn and teach. Even as the nationwide need for teachers expands, the process to get a position in Fairfax County
remains competitive, encouraging skilled teachers to apply for a job here as opposed to other nearby areas. But while the area attracts teachers from around the country, nearby Arlington and Falls Church counties offer a significantly larger amount to their teachers, with salaries averaging $78,000 and $76,000 respectively, compared to Fairfax’s average of $56,000 (WTOP). “I think it’s very competitive to get a job here, and I feel like a lot of teachers come into Fairfax County with masters degrees,” history teacher Maggie Jones said. “We all have strong educational backgrounds and we go through good teaching programs. Our teacher prep programs prepare us better [than others]. The diversity and reputation that FCPS has definitely draws people into the area, and it doesn’t hurt to be located close to DC.” Northern Virginia’s location positively encourages diversity and offers a multitude of jobs, and pairing that with great schools makes it an enticing place to live. But, what makes Virginia appealing also makes it one of the most expensive areas to live. The cost of living in the greater Washington area is 40 percent higher than the national average (Patch). Teachers who work persistently to educate kids are too often placed under financial hardship when their salaries are put up against the prices of houses, groceries and other necessities. “[Teachers] have a high cost of living; they live in Fairfax,” Braband said. “How do we make sure they have a salary commensurate to the professionals that they are and [one that] allows them to have a good lifestyle? Every teacher deserves that, and we’ve got teachers trying to work two jobs or working the summer, and that’s just ridiculous. We have to pay our teachers more to have a great school system. We need the best and brightest teachers in every state to come here to Fairfax, and the only way we’re going to do that is by having the best salary and having the best working conditions.”
6 NEWS MR. GRIMM IN SOUTH KOREA
CONTRASTING AMERICAN & EAST ASIAN EDUCATION Sydney Hirt to go to college, and dropping out of South Korean students are exposed Staff Writer high school is practically unheard of. to a more rigorous curriculum, and they This past September, Principal South Korean students take special tend to learn at a faster pace. Martin Grimm flew to the other side of exams that determine what college one “[Middle schoolers] then have to the world on a mission: to learn more will be able to apply to; these exams are start taking their third language in 7th about the education system in South the the most hectic time of the year, grade. From elementary school, they’re Korea and how it compares to the with students staying up into nearly- learning English from a very young United States’ education system, over six unhealthy hours of the night studying age,” Grimm said. “They have to then thousand miles away. Without spending for their exams. pick up either Chinese, Japanese or a single penny from FCPS, Grimm took Similarly in the US, school can be Spanish.” time to appreciate South Korean culture intense, especially with students being In many schools across America, as well, opting to only eat at Korean encouraged to take higher level AP and second languages are not taught until restaurants and visit Korean shops. IB classes. middle or high school. In South Korea, “After flying 14 hours nonstudents are usually taught stop twice, taking high-speed rail English in school as a core five times, charter buses, public class, along with additional buses and private cars, I am very languages. Now, this is all excited to be back from South something that a South Korean Korea,” Grimm said in his weekly elementary school student is principal update to staff. “The expected to learn, which is hard ten days I spent in South Korea enough on its own. As they have proven to be amazing, eyeget older and enter secondary opening and self-reflective.“ school, they are expected to At first glance, the two juggle the languages they are countries could not be any learning along with their basic more different with regards to core subjects, which can result culture, traditions and food; but in an augmented amount of when it comes to education and stress and sleep deprivation. schooling, the United States has Regardless of these more in common with its East differences, the American Asian cousin than most might and South Korean education assume. systems emulate each other, “Interestingly, I found our and Grimm believes that in school systems to be much order to solve issues at Hayfield, Grimm with Korean students at a performing arts school. more alike than I would have administrators should look to Photo courtesy of Martin Grimm imagined as they are both facing their eastern neighbors. very similar challenges,” Grimm “As I reflect on the said. “As we traveled throughout South “[In] the United States and South visit, I cannot help but think about Korea, we spent time at the elementary, Korea, education is really your ticket Hayfield. We face so many of the middle, and high school levels, visiting into adult life. You could come from a same challenges. Student engagement, eight public and private schools and family that doesn’t have a lot of wealth cell phone/technology use, high levels three universities in total. We spoke and if you can take care of your business of community expectations, student with public and private school students, education wise, it can open doors for stress and the need for teacher and teachers and principals. We also gave you,” Grimm said. student autonomy to focus on learning presentations to over 400 parents, and In both countries, it is strongly while prepping for state-mandated two groups of college students at Hongik suggested and encouraged one attends standardized testing,” Grimm said. “I and Hanyang Universities where we also and graduates college. No matter what cannot help but feel that we at Hayfield met with the Acting President, Deans kind of family one is born into, if one are wrestling with global issues, not just of Education, Department Chairs and can attend college, it can make all the national, state, or FCPS issues. The best professors.” difference between success and failure. way to begin solving these issues is at In South Korea, education is a However, there are disparities our school level through empathy and priority. Most young adults are expected between the two cultures. side-by-side accountability.”
NOVEMBER 2017
NEWS 7
RECENT SHOOTINGS heighten the national GUN CONTROL DEBATE
Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Samantha Lebeck Copy Editor The first weekend of October 2017 was one of celebration for the 22,000 people who gathered to enjoy the Route 91 country music festival in Las Vegas, NV. Gunshots rained from above the crowd for almost exactly 10 minutes, killing 58 and injuring nearly 500 people. Almost a month later on Nov. 5, 2017, Devin Patrick Kelley shot and killed 26 people inside a small Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, TX. Authorities say he was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force, abused his wife and son and was denied a license to carry a gun but still passed background checks to purchase the rifles he used in the rampage (CNN). Stephen Paddock, the 64-year-old resident of Nevada who opened fire on the unsuspecting concert-goers from a 32nd floor window, is unlike other destructive shooters. No one can determine a motive. Devin Kelley’s motivation for shooting, anger toward his inlaws, was determined quickly after the shooting. Paddock’s motive, however, remains a mystery weeks after the shooting, vexing the public and putting pressure on both federal and local investigators to reveal his motivations. The Las Vegas mass shooting is the deadliest in American history- a feat that is heartbreaking to many, but nothing new. Alarmingly, the five shootings with the most casualties in the United States have all occurred in the past 10 years (CNN). Since the Sandy Hook school shooting in 2012, there have been at least 1,518 mass shootings in the United States and least 7,804 resulting deaths and injuries (Vox). The debate over gun control heightens after each
major shooting, and both state and federal gun laws are criticized. In the wake of both the Las Vegas and Texas church shootings, gun laws are under the microscope more than ever before. “I feel that the gun laws in our country are not fulfilling their obligation. They are too lax and guns are getting into the hands of dangerous people or [people who] should not use them,” sophomore Saoirse Farrell said. Federal law requires a background check of each person who tries to purchase a gun and though some states are tougher in the process than others, guns can still be bought illegally without much effort, even if the buyer does not own a permit. In Virginia, a person must be at least 18 years of age to purchase a rifle or shotgun and at least 21 years of age to purchase a handgun. Following
right reasons. There should also be more restrictions on gun magazines including where they are sold and who receives them.” Supporters of the current gun control laws argue that it is their right as American citizens to carry a weapon as it stated in the Second Amendment. They express vehement support for gun ownership and insist that blaming the laws that regulate guns is not the answer to the issue of gun related deaths and injuries. The most prevalent disagreement between gun enthusiasts and those calling for stricter regulations is how laws could be changed to give trustworthy gun owners freedom while also stopping murderers in their tracks. “If I could change the law, I would make the person wanting to be in possession of a gun be run through a series of test to see if they are eligible of having a gun in their possession,” freshman Anita Celebic said. Shooters with malicious intentions can obtain the weapons necessary to carry out their plans easily. Ineffective mental health programs and violent media tendencies also influence these shootings because of their impact on the shooters themselves. Trump blamed the Texas shooting, not on gun control, but rather on the gunman’s unstable mental health and the lack of help he received for his issues. While mental health influences shooters more often than not, the majority of people with mental illness are not violent. “I believe mass shootings in some cases could be prevented,” Farrell said. “It is definitely a case by case basis. In cases where the shooter had an identified mental illness or was unstable more laws to prevent the guns getting in their hands could have helped.”
[“ ] Gun laws in our country are not fulfilling their obligation. They are too lax and guns are getting into the hands of dangerous people.” - Saoirse Farrell
mass shootings, it is argued that acquiring a gun is far too unchallenging and straightforward. “I would change gun laws. I would make it so that we still have our right to bear arms but only in very specific cases,” Farrell said. “There would be extensive background checks, psych evaluations and paperwork. This would help make it harder for people who are mentally unstable to get these weapons. There would also be more restrictions on who could attend gun shows to make sure people are attending them for the
8 FEATURE
STUDENT
SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE Kristin Haes By Jessica Probst
Senior Kristin Haes has been horse vaulting for seven years and currently is part of the American Vaulting Association. “I began horse vaulting when I was 10, and immediately bonded with the horses,” Haes said. Horse vaulting has allowed Haes to learn valuable life lessons, and discover what she wants to do out of high school. “This allows me to pursue my dream job as a hippotherapist,” Haes said. “I have learned to never to give up and that nothing is impossible if you work hard to achieve your goal.” Photo courtesy of Kristin Haes
ACTOR Corbin Farrell By Jessica Probst
Sophomore Corbin Farrell started out as a videographer for the middle school shows and now has worked his way up to having a lead role in “Rent”, as Mark. “Rent will be my seventh show at Hayfield, and I’m just really excited for everyone to come and see it,” Farrell said. Being a part of the drama department has allowed him to meet new people and make lifelong friends. “The drama department has really become my safe space, and everyone in it feels like family to me.” Photo courtesy of Thomas Kinder
SCHOLAR Abdullaah Alarcon By Jessica Probst
Senior Abdullaah Alarcon is a high-achieving student who seizes every opportunity that comes his way. Although it’s not easy dealing with numerous AP classes and working long shifts, Alarcon is able to manage this workload and even find time to get accepted to Virginia Tech. “I know that by taking six AP courses and working 24 hour weeks, I will be better prepared for my future,” Alarcon said. “I put myself out there, so I think that anyone that does that can and will succeed in anything they put their mind to.” Photo courtesy of Jessica Probst
NOVEMBER 2017
FEATURE 9
ARTIST Tommy Ryan
“
I’ve been doing art ever since my dad and I doodled on napkins at restaurants when I was little. Now, I make goofy art, and it has no serious meaning, but I think it’s fun. My Spongebob piece was an assignment for class, and I used Spongebob because it’s full of color.”
POET Amina Fatima
By Maggie Markon
Junior Amina Fatima began writing poetry in third grade, motivated by her father and older sister. She draws inspiration from the challenges she faces, which range from anxiety to islamophobia in society. Fatima also excels at spoken word and has taken part in multiple competitions in the area. She is currently the Co-President of the Hayfield Poetry Club.
“
“Chris Simpson, an anonymous cartoonist, is one of my biggest influences. His art is weird but funny, which makes me want to include the same ideas that are in his in mine. It took me about a week to make this self-portrait, and it’s one of my favorites.” Photos courtesy of Tommy Ryan
“Funeral Speech”
“I’ll be okay” was the biggest lie You’d ever tell me With that twinkle in your eye When you lie Because I Notice every part of you As if I were you You said “things will get better” You said it so many times I began to believe you You said it so many times I began to forget “I feel good today” Was a sentence that came out As an illusion The sentence that your noose Had been dipped in You said “I’m just tired” Every time someone asked how you were And I begged you to tell them But all that ever came out of you was “I’m just tired” And I was tired too But you kept going
So I kept going And going and going and going Until you couldn’t anymore So I couldn’t anymore You said getting up in the morning became hard But we both knew going back to sleep was harder With the lights off And the thoughts of the future Hanging above your neck Like a blade ready to drop at any moment Thoughts of the future that May never even come to be “I’ll be okay” was the biggest lie You’d ever tell me With that twinkle in your eye When you lie Because I Notice every part of you As if I were you Because I was you Photo courtesy of Amina Fatima
10 COVER
POLITICAL PARADOX
YOUNG VOTERS ARE UNAWARE IN ONE OF THE MOST POLITICALLY ACTIVE AREAS IN THE COUNTRY
Most states don’t have this election; we are one of two states that hold the governor’s race in this odd year. For 60 something so important, not enough 50 people show up.” Local elections attract even fewer voters than state elections. Through immense media coverage, national and even state policy is often glamorized, overshadowing the monumental importance local legislation to daily life. “What I always try to preach to my students is [that] the presidential election 49th district candidate Alfonso Lopez speaks to Hayfield volunteers. Photo by Minh Vu always gets the most By Staff Writer Annaliese Grunder involvement and Co-Editor-in-Chief Maggie Markon media attention, Managing Editor Julia Napier but don’t our local and state officials The middle school lecture hall was have way more of an bustling late on the evening of Thursday, impact on our day Oct. 12. Government students in to day lives?” Zywiol sophisticated outfits hurried around said. “What we see the expansive room, collecting question is this correlation cards and holding doors open for arriving of higher voter community members. Candidates turnout during the for the Virginia House of Delegates presidential years roamed, conversing with supporters and and lower all the Candidate Vivian Watts gives her opening speech advocating for their various platforms. on Oct. 12, 2017. Photo by Minh Vu way down to our The forum commenced with seven school board. [At] candidates engaging in an educated gubernatorial election. Fairfax County, our school board election just a couple debate about controversial topics such being the most populated county in months ago, only around 10 percent of as climate change, gun control and the state, played an integral role in both Fairfax County showed up-- to me that affordable housing. elections. But these elections are not is kind of a pathetic number. Don’t you This was the eighth debate held only significant for state policy-- they think that the school board member has during this election season by the Fairfax are the first major response to the 2016 way more of a daily impact on your life League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan presidential election and also arguably that what the president does?” organization that encourages a politically serve as trial run for the 2018 midterm Even in an area chock full of political active community. elections, when most seats of Congress influence, the younger demographic of “Anytime you can hold a community will be challenged. event that can bring different people to “Fairfax County is always going to be For something the school who maybe don’t come here the bellwether for the whole state. This is so important, or don’t have kids that go to school a historically liberal area of the country not enough people here is a good thing, especially doing and of the state,” Zywiol said. “Since this show up.” something [that] is a hallmark of a is an off year election happening right democracy: a forum or debate between after the presidential election, I think - Doug Zywiol candidates,” History department chair it sends a signal to the country about Doug Zywiol said. “We were honored to what people think about the president voters is still largely outnumbered by have them host their debate here.” one year after the start of their term. You older generations, a problem magnified Municipal voting took place on are always going to have presidents and during state and local elections around Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2017, with all seats of former presidents and national figures the country. Without proper voter the Virginia House of Delegates being weighing in on this election because, in turnout, many beliefs held by younger contested along with the widely disputed a way, it’s a referendum on their policies. voters are not well represented, yet many
[“ ]
COVER 11
NOVEMBER 2017 expect change to occur without intensive efforts. “There certainly are those close races, and even if you don’t prevail, people that are elected know who turned out to vote, and if they see that an age cohort barely shows up, they are not going to pay much attention to it,” 39th district candidate Vivian Watts said. “I have found that legislating for the future is less and less prominent.” Although the Fairfax area is significant in elections at every level of government, the predominant reason for low young voter turnout is simply unawareness. As signs plastered with the names of candidates line the sides of roads, and political advertisements litter websites and social media, most teenagers still are not well informed. Many Hayfield students know little about the 2017 election. A survey of 171 students conducted by H2N earlier this month showed that 50.9 percent of the students surveyed admitted that they were unable to name the gubernatorial candidates. In addition, only 28.7 percent of students consider themselves politically informed, and just 4.1 percent of students said that their classmates were politically informed. Perhaps even more alarming is that when asked which candidate they would hypothetically vote for, 15.2 percent of students responded that they would not vote at all. So why is it that in an area as saturated with politics as Northern
BY THE
The sign directing attendees into the middle school lecture hall. Photo by Maggie Markon
Virginia, students can still come off as being indifferent? “I believe kids our age come off as politically apathetic because we’re too scared to vocalize our actual beliefs,” senior Alex Szymczak said. “I think local politics get thrown under the rug because they’re not as exciting as national matters, but they’re definitely more important because the policies implemented as a result directly affect our everyday lives.” Regardless of ambiguous causes, political involvement is an important step in remedying this contradiction. Zywiol, for example, requires his AP Government students to complete at least five hours of political service as part of the 15 community service hours required of seniors. “Not only does [being involved in politics] aid in the learning process by
Do you consider yourself politically informed?
NUMBERS From 171 responses, see how Hayfield students view the gubernatorial election.
allowing students to have a hands-on experience in our government system, but it also serves as a way for high school students to discover or further learn about their political identity,” junior Heather Baker said. There are endless opportunities for students to become involved in local politics, regardless of age or voting eligibility. “A lot of students at Hayfield are obviously not 18 yet, but you can still get involved in the campaign, and that is what I try to preach to my students,” Zywiol said. “Even if you can’t vote in the election, you can still participate with one of the campaigns or participate with a nonpartisan group. In many ways, getting out and knocking on people’s doors and telling them about a candidate that you support is even more powerful than casting a ballot.”
Have you heard anything about the VA governor election?
YES NO NOT SURE
YES NO MAYBE
If you were to vote for one of these candidates, who would you pick?
UNKNOWN/OTHER RALPH NORTHAM WOULD NOT VOTE ED GILLESPIE CLIFF HYRA
Could you name the candidates who are running to replace VA Gov. Terry McAuliffe? YES NO MAYBE SOME
12 COVER OPINION
NORTHAM’S WIN IS ENCOURAGING, BUT DEMOCRATS MUST MAINTAIN MOMENTUM
Annaliese Grunder Staff Writer On the morning of Nov. 8, I eagerly read the news: Democrat Ralph Northam defeats Republican Ed Gillespie in the contentious Virginia Gubernatorial Election. Personally, I was elated; the aboveaverage voter turnout had ensured a victory in an election that, unlike the presidential election, is determined by the popular vote. I appreciate Northam’s platform, which emphasizes support for Virginia’s public school systems and pro-choice legislation, and I felt that Gillespie’s campaign ads unfairly attacked Northam’s immigration policies by playing on public fear of MS-13. In addition, I’m happy that the results of the election helped to further cement Democratic majority in Virginia, a trend that has been consistent since the presidential election of 2008. However, victory for the Democrats doesn’t stop at Northam; they also succeeded in winning a majority in the Virginia House of Delegates for the first time in over a decade. Several long-time Republican delegates, including selfdescribed “chief homophobe” Robert G. Marshall, were replaced by Democratic candidates. New records in diversity amongst the candidates were shattered as well. The nation’s first openly transgender delegate and Virginia’s first openly lesbian delegate were elected to office. These are all fantastic achievements for the Democratic party, and I suspect that the high voter turnouts and clearly blue results were a reflection of how dissatisfied the majority of Virginia is with the Trump administration. However, I’ve heard several Democrats presume that this is an indication that the party will seize back control of the legislative and executive branches during
A constituent votes in the middle school lecture hall on Election Day. Photo by Minh Vu
the next national elections. Not so fast, Democrats. While I too am enjoying the Democrat’s state and local triumphs, I can’t help but notice what a rarity this is. While Democrats can easily dominate the popular vote, the majority of states in the United States consistently vote Republican across the board. I believe that this stands true for two reasons: Outside Hayfield on election day, Nov. 7, 2017. Photo by Minh Vu Firstly, Democrats are concentrated in urban, coastal areas that are only forever. Sure, the ultimate goal for the located in a few choice states. Secondly, Democratic party would be to hold a and perhaps more importantly for the majority on a national level, but unless future of the party, Democrats simply they attempt to loosen the Republican’s don’t put enough emphasis on winning grip on traditionally red state legislators, state and local elections. As a party that then the GOP will continue to reign stresses the importance of the federal supreme in the Electoral College. government’s supremacy over state and So to all my fellow Democrats, local governments, it’s all too tempting congratulations. We’ve taken Virginia. for Democrats to focus solely on winning Pat yourselves on the back all you want, national elections. However, if they’re and keep that end goal of taking back ever to reclaim the House, Senate and the national government in mind. Let’s Presidency, then more resources should just remember that the only thing this be put towards winning over local and election proved is that it’s possible for state governments, something that the us to achieve victory on state and local GOP has dominated for what feels like levels.
NOVEMBER 2017 OPINION
WHY GILLESPIE LOST, AND WHERE REPUBLICANS GO FROM HERE
Alex Szymczak Guest Writer Most residents of Virginia do not realize they are in the midst of a major political shift. Virginia, a historically red state, has voted blue ever since Barack Obama’s election in 2008. Republicans seem unable to turn out enough of their base to sway the tide back in their favor and rural Virginia is becoming increasingly shadowed by northern suburbs like our own Fairfax County. Ralph Northam’s election on Nov. 7 further cements the notion of Democratic dominance within our state. As a Gillespie supporter, I was initially disappointed by his loss; however, the bigger question at hand for the Republican Party is how to handle the election results. Was this simply a realignment that Virginia has been experiencing for almost a decade now? Or was the Virginia gubernatorial campaign and other various seats lost evidence of a referendum on Trump and his influence on the Republican brand? According to The Washington Post, forty-two percent of all voters identified as “moderate(s)”, and sixty-four percent of that group voted for Northam. Additionally, Politico found that “Half of Virginia voters said Trump was a reason for their vote — with twice as many saying they were voting to oppose Trump (34 percent) as to support him (17 percent).” Ed Gillespie did not lose solely because of Virginia’s changing political environment; rather, he lost because the Democratic Party has found
COVER 13
Politico found, and vote in opposition to the president. It would seem that the Republicans, after all of their gains last year, are stuck between a rock and a hard place. With the midterms approaching rapidly, the appearance of a solution seems unlikely. My experience with Gillespie fist bumps the Hayfield mascot during the the Gillespie campaign Homecoming game on Oct. 6, 2017. Photo by Maggie Markon has bestowed upon a unifying message in opposition me incredible insight into the workings towards the president and his party. of a party operating in the face of Ever since the 2016 election, considerable opposition. I have come Republicans running for office have to terms with the fact that I live in found themselves at a crossroads: do a solidly blue county. This is not to we embrace or reject President Trump? imply that I am somehow antagonized Ed Gillespie seemed to try and ride the or annoyed; rather, being a Gillespie middle line with the President tweeting supporter within Fairfax provides me favorably about him but not having opportunities to develop a defense of my the POTUS accompany him on the personal ideology and form friendships campaign trail. Clearly this was not with folks on the other side of the aisle. enough to turn out stronger numbers There is an exciting and invigorating than his opponent. As a volunteer, I feeling to have your beliefs put to the became accustomed to only handing out test of debate. Whether in class or the a dozen or so sample Republican ballots lunchroom, this past election has aided during absentee voting and received my personal development as a politically minimal positive responses during active citizen and my character in canvassing efforts. general. I can not wait to see what the So what do Republicans do? If they 2018 midterms have in store. reach out to moderates and disavow the president, they will almost certainly lose votes they picked up during the 2016 election on the Trump side. Conversely, if they go full Trumpian and try to pump up their base, they lose out on moderates who will most likely run to the polls, as
Gillespie meets students in the hype squad at the Homecoming football game on Oct. 6, 2017. Photo by Maggie Markon
14 OPINION
AMERICAN EDUCATION
IS NOT Lauren Upah Managing Editor Our curriculum is decided upon by our county; this means that everything we learn and are tested on is regulated by our state or local government (findlaw.com). However, even though the United States is considered to be the most powerful country in the world, our education system does not reflect our international standing In an international education study for reading, math and science, it was found that the United States places 14th in reading, 25th in math and 17th in science (Business Insider). One country that is consistently ranked in the top five is Finland, which is said to have one of the best school system in the entire world, and although it is quite unorthodox, it is evidently very effective. In the United States, a majority of students attend free public school, and since less and less money is now being given to the American education system, classes are usually very large, especially core classes of as English, math and history, and science with some classes even exceeding 30 students. However, in Finland, all schools are public and fully subsidized, or paid for, by the federal government, and due to the country’s comparatively smaller size and lower population, classes are small, allowing for what they call “phenomenon-based learning” (Finland.fi). Phenomenon based learning allows for teachers to instruct less in a classroom setting and more in
where it needs to be
a real world setting, making their classes more applicable and allowing teachers to be more accommodating to each individual student In Finland, teachers are selected from the top 10 percent of all graduates and are required to obtain a master’s degree at the very least. Teachers there are also revered similarly to lawyers or doctors, making the job more appealing. The only thing American teachers have in common with Finnish teachers are the undeservedly low salaries, (www. payscale.com) as well as the requirement for post graduate work. American teachers are by no means unqualified, but they are often treated badly, not given all the supplies they need and are frequently overworked. This prevents some teachers from being able to connect with their students, and it hinders their ability to take into consideration the different learning types of students. Many American schools are still respectable, but there are still many
TOP 5 COUNTRIES
Based on OCED scores in reading, math and science, respectively Statistics from the Organization for Co-operation and Development.
improvements to be made. While the small size of the Finnish population allows for more flexibility than we could ever have in the United States, there are still many things that we can improve, like focusing curriculums more on students and what they want to do, rather than just having a general curriculum that might not encompass what students actually want to study. There are already people working in smaller schools, striving to make education more inclusive and adaptable to students. Recently, major networks Fox, ABC, NBC and CBS ran the same story about the “Rethink High School” movement, in an effort started by XQ that is aiming to reinvent high schools by applying a method similar to phenomenon based learning used in Finland. Their efforts are rapidly gaining support because of the revolutionary effect that it could have on schools all over the country.
SOUTH KOREA 539 546 538
FINLAND 536 541 554
CANADA 524 527 529
NEW ZEALAND 521 519 532
JAPAN 520 529 539
NOVEMBER 2017
OPINION 15
GPA REQUIREMENTS HINDER STUDENTS’ ABILITY TO JOIN HONOR SOCIETIES Hiwot Gideon Staff Writer I was recommended for Spanish Honor Society my sophomore year, only to read the requirements and find out that students must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 and no less than an A average in the subject. Spanish is a subject I love, so I was disappointed that I did not get in because of my A average and 3.4 GPA. When a student’s GPA is not where they need it to be, it can unfairly keep them from reaching their full potential in a subject that they enjoy. Hayfield has honor society programs for students who are interested and excel in certain subjects. In a poll conducted by H2N, students were asked if they thought an overall 3.5 GPA should be required to be a part of an honor society.
Out of the 65 students that participated, 74 percent thought that GPA should not determine eligibility to join an honor society. Most teachers want students to excel. Teachers want students to challenge themselves and take that extra step, such as joining an honor society. Shouldn’t any student who is doing well in a certain subject be able to do that? A student may have a lower grade point average due to high school courses they took and struggled with. Past grades should not determine whether or not one should be able to join an honor society. The only thing that should matter is their average grade in the subject that they want to get involved in. I have a friend who failed Algebra 1 in middle school, and that failing grade
BY THE NUMBERS NUMBER OF STUDENTS IN HAYFIELD HONOR SOCIETIES SPANISH HONOR SOCIETY
impacted her overall GPA because no one informed her that she could have the grade expunged. When she wanted to join the Science Honor Society, the honor society leader notified her that her GPA was too low, even though science was her greatest strength. These GPA requirements hold students back from being able to reach their full potential in school. While having an A average in the class should remain a requirement, there should not be any prerequisites to join an honor society. Students should be able to say how they feel about the honor society’s policies whether it’s by going to the school directly, starting a petition or even talking to honor society leaders about it. Students who oppose the policies can greatly influence the changes that could be made.
No
74%
Yes 26%
133 Students
MATH HONOR SOCIETY
123 Students
FRENCH HONOR SOCIETY
37 Students
ENGLISH HONOR SOCIETY
19 Students
SHOULD GPA AFFECT STUDENTS’ ELIGIBILITY TO JOIN HONOR SOCIETIES?
16 EDITORIAL
New FCPS policy causes
AP EXAMS to become a financial burden on
HIGH ACHIEVING STUDENTS
Advanced Placement (AP) testing has long stood as a staple of American education by providing students with opportunities to broaden their academic horizons and save thousands of dollars in college, as select scores can substitute in for class credits at the collegiate level. FCPS has been a consistent supporter of the system, offering a myriad of courses not provided in other regions of the US and paying for students to take the worldwide exams near the end of the school year. FCPS believes that “each student is entitled to an excellent education that meets his or her individual needs” and works to “prepare all students for the world of the future by giving them a broad spectrum of opportunities to prepare for education and employment beyond high school.” However, such beliefs and missions are being directly contradicted by new county policies setting fees for advanced students. After frequent rumor that such a change would be enacted, near the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year FCPS announced that there would be new high school extracurricular activity and AP/International Baccalaureate (IB) testing fees, limiting students to the opportunities they pride themselves so highly on offering. Pertaining to Hayfield, extracurricular activities, which are classified as “athletics and clubs for which no academic credit or grade is awarded,” will now come with a yearly $50 extracurricular fee, while students must now pay $93 per test when they reach a quota of six APs over their high school career. According to FCPS, they opened
the collection of extracurricular fees on Oct. 16, 2017, yet the collection of said fees (at Hayfield specifically) has not been enforced, making them anything but a hinderance to after school activity participants. However, the same cannot be said for AP testing fees.
heavily on building their knowledge and reaching success in numerous APs when planning for their futures. High school, senior year in particular, is far from cheap, and the AP fees are only adding an extra level of financial stress of public school and a possible collegiate future. With senior dues, SAT/ACT testing, parking, college applications and more, students do not need any more financial burdens. FCPS reminds students that just exams, not classes, are being billed, however, it would be pointless to go through a year of a challenging, collegelevel course and not take the exam, sacrificing a shot at looking better on a college application and saving sizeable amounts of money in the future. While not all AP students will be affected, as FCPS will still be covering six exams, those taking more do not deserve to be punished financially for
Numerous AP exam prep books. Photo by Maggie Markon.
AP course selection and scores have proved instrumental in the college application and acceptance process, and Prepscholar recommends students take between seven and 12 AP courses for highly selective (top 20) schools, four to eight for selective (top 100) schools and one to five for less selective schools. While these numbers are based off of generalizations on what and when schools offer AP classes, it cannot be argued that advanced scholars rely
their dedication to their studies and academic futures. Billing information will be sent directly to students in April 2018 and it is unrealistic to believe that any changes will be made to the fee system regardless of any and all student protest, but that does not mean that it shouldn’t be challenged. Students should not be subjected to higher levels of college related stress in a place where it is not necessary.
NOVEMBER 2017
OPINION 17
Shedding light on
EMETOPHOBIA /əˌmedəˈfōbēə/
Sydney Hirt Staff Writer Emetophobia is defined as an irrational fear of vomit and getting sick. That sort of thing is not typically dealt with every day, so it sounds simple to avoid. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as it seems. Emetophobia is not just being grossed out by vomit, which is a common misconception. Everybody is grossed out by vomit, but emetophobia takes it to another level. People with emetophobia are known to experience severe panic attacks and mental breakdowns when they are faced with someone who is sick, or if they themselves become sick (The Independent). Unlike other phobias like astraphobia, the fear of thunder, or cynophobia, the fear of dogs, emetophobia cannot be planned for and accommodated ahead of time. One with astraphobia could wear headphones to block out the sound, and someone with cynophobia could take extra care to make sure where they are going will be dog-free. Unfortunately, it is different with emetophobia. People can’t typically predict when and where they’re going to be sick, making leaving the house an obstacle of its own. People with emetophobia tend to be sheltered, isolating themselves for fear of an incident occurring if they were to leave their houses (BBC). Any place could be dangerous, especially places where children, animals or anyone else who cannot communicate that they could be ill are present. Not only does emetophobia make daily planning difficult, but it can also shape one’s entire future. People with emetophobia have to be careful if they are going to have a pet, especially if they’re living alone. Animals that are capable of being ill, like cats and dogs,
are not an option, leaving only small animals like rodents. If someone with emetophobia chooses to have children, they will have trouble during pregnancy if they experience morning sickness or are in the scenario that their child is sick. Not only does the latter bring about the issue of being around vomit, but also the issue of feeling powerless if they are ultimately incapable of helping their child. Some people develop this phobia after a traumatic event. For me specifically, one sticks out in my mind. This occurred in the fifth grade, so I was 10 at the time. That morning, my best friend was talking to me about how he had felt sick. I didn’t think anything of it, as he had played it off as a joke. He remained rather talkative throughout the day, so I assumed he was feeling better. I had shoved the conversation we had that morning to the back of my mind. We sat together at lunch that day, and out of nowhere, he got sick. My first instinct was to get as far away from the scene as possible, so I leapt up from my seat and practically sprinted across
the cafeteria; I wasn’t afraid of people staring or laughing at me. I had bigger things to worry about. I heard voices, but my brain wasn’t processing what they were saying. All I could focus on was my pounding heart. I tried to keep it together throughout the rest of the day, focusing all my energy on trying to quell my rushed breaths and spasm-like shivering. I gave in eventually and told my teacher I wasn’t feeling good. She remarked on how pale I looked, and I was quickly sent to the clinic. I went home within a half hour of showing up, as I was suffering from a panic attack. Emetophobia is not the hidden, rare phobia that people like to believe it is. According to Vice, it is suffered by 8 percent of the American population, most of which are women. “No one likes the topic of vomit,” they’ll say, but refuse to see the reality of it. It is more than a fear. It is a debilitating hurdle to overcome, and it has no cure. It is not being able to have fun with your friends because of the fear of an incident. It is the fear of not being able to have the future you desire. It is emetophobia.
BY THE NUMBERS
(Fear of Speaking) Glossophobia (Fear of Death) Necrophobia Arachnophobia (Fear of Spiders) Achluophobia (Fear of Darkness) Percentage of Acrophobia (Fear of Heights) Emetophobia (Fear of Vomiting) U.S. Citizens Sociophobia (Fear of Social Interaction) affected by Aerophobia (Fear of Flying) certain phobias Statistics from Statistics Brain and Claustrophoba (Fear of Confined Spaces) Maudsley NHS Trust Agoraphobia (Fear of Open Spaces)
74 68 30.5 11 10 8 7.9 6.5 2.3 2.2 0
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30
40
50
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70
80
18 OPINION
CHEERS
&
H2N receives Trophy Class VHSL rating
JEERS
Vending machine prices raised again
H2N was awarded the highest possible ranking by the Virginia High School League for the 2016-2017 school year based on coverage, design and other factors. Photo
The prices in vending machines throughout the school were raised by about 25 cents, making chips and other snacks more expensive. Photo courtesy of Brad Pace
Taylor Wheeler named to First Team All-Region Cheer
Failure to advertise Dare to Care Week
Wheeler
Guidinetti
courtesy of Brad Pace
Sophomore Taylor Wheeler was honored for her achievements as a cheerleader, being named to First Team All-Region for the Occoquan Region. Photo courtesy of Tareka
Veterans Day SGA and S2S Celebration
On Nov. 10, the SGA and S2S organized a celebration for veteran staff members, inviting them to speak about their experiences to increase appreciation of the holiday. Photo courtesy of Maggie LeGendre
The school did very little to advertise Dare to Care week, leaving many students without knowledge that it was happening until it had already begun. Photo courtesy of Alexander
No day off for Veterans Day
Fairfax County Public Schools do not give a day off to students and staff for Veterans Day, despite the high concentration of veterans and military families in the area. Photo courtesy of Pixabay
NOVEMBER 2017
OPINION 19
ACADEMICALLY INCLINED STUDENTS are at an unfair 1028
DISADVANTAGE
997
TOP TEN COLLEGES BASED ON FOOTBALL PLAYERS’ AVERAGE SAT SCORES
997
993
Statistics from USA Today
programs. Students begin to rely so heavily on the sport they play to get them into a college that everything else fades into the background, leaving them greatly underprepared for the reality of college life. The worst part of this issue is that these athletes are taking up spaces at schools that could have been filled by strong academic students just because they are good at a sport, which admittedly requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but should not be the predominant reason to get into a college. Students who are not as athletically inclined or don’t necessarily stand out as much as their other teammates might not get into the universities that they want or deserve to get into. Not all student-athletes struggle in
967
966
964
Iowa
Hawaii
Indiana
Purdue
Virginia
Michigan
Oregon State
968
Colorado
973
California
974
Georgia Tech
Lauren Upah Managing Editor For most students, the purpose of high school is to get into college and eventually join the workforce, but with colleges becoming more selective and the application process becoming more competitive, students must work much harder to stand out among many other college applicants. However, that process becomes much easier if they play a sport. Both high schools and colleges value students with athletic prowess over their more academically inclined peers, making it harder to succeed in school if someone doesn’t intend to play a sport. Ever since I began high school, it has been made very clear that in order to get a college’s attention, I would need to play a sport. I distinctly remember a counselor coming into my ninth grade English class and telling us horror stories of students who did not get into the colleges they applied to because they were “too academically focused”. Although athletes work incredibly hard and deserve equal recognition for their abilities both on and off the field, it is glaringly unfair that students who tend focus more on academics are not being granted the leeway that is sometimes offered to student-athletes. A CNN analysis in 2014 found that when looking at the SAT and ACT scores of college athletes admitted to NCAA schools, between seven and 18 percent were reading at an elementary school level. This is not just an anomaly for athletic universities such as the University of Florida or the University of Maryland; it’s also occurring in colleges with strong academic programs. One school widely known for this problem is the University of North Carolina (UNC). UNC’s learning specialist, Mary Willingham, has had student-athletes who could not read and write come in; she had to teach one student how to sound out the word “Wisconsin” (CNN). This perfectly illustrates the prevailing problem that exists between schools and their athletic
school; in fact, a majority excel in both academics and athletics, but they are not the problem. The problem is the few students who rest solely on their athletic laurels to get them into colleges that they wouldn’t get into otherwise. For most students, especially those more academically focused, their central goal is to get into a good college. While almost all athletes must play in college to make it pro, their reasons for going to college are drastically different than their academic counterparts. Seeing as the main point of college is to further education, schools should be focusing more on academically inclined students rather than student-athletes. Schools need to work on recognizing the achievements of all students, not just those that who can play a sport.
20 A&E Dramahawks produce fall musical rarely attempted by high schools Lauren Miller Co-Editor-in-Chief First workshopped in 1993 and eventually opening on Broadway in 1996, Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize winning “Rent” has long stood as the pinnacle of contemporary rock musical theatre. While the show has been remarkably successful, it contains numerous adult themes and issues typically not featured in productions done by high schoolers. “Rent” tells the stories of young artists in New York City at the turn of the 21st century struggling to survive as they battle oppression, love and disease. As a partially autobiographical piece, Larson centered his piece around what he directly saw as a massive cultural influencer: the AIDS epidemic, leading to the rise of significant controversy when “Rent” was first produced in a high school in 2006. “The decision to produce ‘Rent’ was not taken lightly, as it is a more mature show that tackles some difficult issues such as the AIDS crisis and drug addiction. Creating a dialogue about these challenging issues and the show’s focus on the themes of inclusion, acceptance and hope were the main motivators for the Dramahawks to take on this musical,” theatre teacher Patrick Mitchell said. The Dramahawks have put on several “student edition” shows in years past, however, with “Rent,” a more controversial show in and of itself, the changes are notably more significant. “A lot of the language was brought
down a notch to make it high school appropriate [and] there were minimal plot changes to be appropriate [for] a high school,” junior Brooke Smith said. “[The changes] don’t affect the story too much, but [they] kind of take away the atmosphere of the show being about angry adults in New York.” Despite these content-based alterations and the complete removal of “Contact,” the song with the most adult content, all characters remain the same as those of the original Broadway productions. All of Larson’s characters were based off of people who touched his own life, making each remarkably complex and all ultimately redeemable. “The characters were written to be extremely different from one another; from Mark being uptight to his complete opposite Roger, everyone has their own thing to add to the story,” senior Shannon Flack said. “The songs in the show vary in multiple ways from using classical technique to a strong musical theatre belt. The show is one of the most challenging vocal tracks the Hayfield Dramahawks have ever had to pull off.” While such complexity in storytelling is challenging with all roles, characterization for freshman Max von Kolnitz was never further from what is expected of actors in the traditional high school theatre setting. “I play Angel, the gay drag queen who is suffering from AIDS,” von Kolnitz said. “The most challenging part would be having to find the most appropriate balance in order to not be offensive to any type of people who are gay or cross
dressers. ‘Rent’ is about many sensitive topics, [so] it’s always important to tread lightly, which is something I have been sure to be aware of.” Overall, the choice for the Dramahawks to perform “Rent” this fall was quite controversial, yet the themes and universal messages of the piece are what should stand out above all hesitations some may have. “‘Rent’ is especially important today because it features individuals from communities who are not nearly as represented as they should be such as the homeless, members of the LGBTQ+ community and victims of HIV/AIDS,” senior Trish Hoang said. “The show stands for following characters who fit into these categories, spreading awareness on these people in particular, and it’s incredible that a musical is able to project the voices of those that may not have been able to be heard back then.” After a successful 2016-17 season, the Dramahawks are elated to be performing the important story to audiences; “Rent” runs Nov. 9-11 and 16-18 at 7 p.m. “There are often many presumptions when it comes to high school theatre, such as an overall surface-level perception or lack of cohesiveness--with this show we hope to cast away some of those beliefs,” senior Cara Bradley said. “A conglomeration of relevant themes and artistic commitment, Rent offers a unique experience that is beyond worth being shared.”
Character shots of “Rent” leads: (from left to right) Trish Hoang, Marek Brown, Max von Kolnitz, Corbin Farrell, Jackson Miller, Christian Pineda, Hallie Strelsky, and Shannon Flack Photos courtesy of Shannon Flack
NOVEMBER 2017
A&E 21
STAFF
RECOMMENDATIONS BOOKS: BETWEEN SHADES OF GRAY By Alison Habina In Ruta Sepetys’ historical novel “Between Shades of Gray,” Lina Vilkas, a normal, popular fifteen year old girl was living her ordinary life in Lithuania, until one day, Soviet officers came knocking on her door. Lina and her family were taken to a Soviet work camp, where over 12 years she would be beaten, starved and struggle to stay alive. She would make new acquaintances and enemies at the camp as she tried to protect her family. This proud Lithuanian girl risks her life many times in order to help her family and the one she comes to love at the camp. Photo courtesy of Lauren Upah
By Brynn Luskey R&B music has evolved with the emergence of Sabrina Claudio, a 21 year old singer and songwriter from Miami, Florida. She gained her following from posting covers on YouTube of artists such as Beyoncé and Willow Smith. Claudio recently released her debut album, “About Time,” after her 2017 EP “Confidently Lost” hit the charts, and since has joined 6lack on his North American tour. Her songs such as “Unravel Me” and “Wait” perfectly encompass Claudio’s soulful and calming vibe, and her alluring voice has contributed to her growing fame. Sabrina Claudio is full of raw talent, and her passionate lyrics reel listeners in. Photo courtesy of Apple Music
TELEVISION: SILICON VALLEY By Annaliese Grunder
“Silicon Valley” is an HBO original sitcom centered around Richard Hendricks (Thomas Middleditch), a programmer who lives in a Silicon Valley tech incubator. Richard finds himself thrown into the spotlight when he accidentally develops the tech world’s most advanced compression algorithm while working on his music app, Pied Piper. Hilarity ensues as Richard, now CEO of his own company, plunges into a frantic race to get Pied Piper’s algorithm to market before his competitor, tech magnate Gavin Belson (Matt Ross). Combining raunchy comedy, satire of the real world tech industry and a stellar cast, “Silicon Valley” is an uproarious masterpiece. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
MUSIC: SABRINA CLAUDIO
MOVIES:
CASINO ROYALE
By Jack Patrick
“Casino Royale” is about James Bond, who after receiving his license to kill, goes out on a mission to bankrupt and arrest Le Chiffre, a criminal planning to take billions of dollars from Casino Royale for a secret organization. I recommend “Casino Royale” because it has strong performances from Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Judi Dench and Mads Mikkelsen, along with outstanding action sequences like the construction site assault and fantastic musical score like the poker scene theme and opening theme song. It is very thrilling from start to finish. Photo courtesy of WDavid MacKenzie (Flickr)
22 A&E
Top five UP AND COMING rappers of 2017 as “Blessings feat.Drake”, “IDFWY” “Research feat.Ariana Grande” and “Play No Games feat. Chris Brown & Ty Dolla $ign.”, as of February 1, 2016, “Dark Side Paradise” is certified platinum, sitting atop the Billboard 200 as his first No.1 album.
2: Travis Scott Jake McKinney Staff Writer When people think of top rappers in the game right now, they usually think of the big guys in rap ; Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West and J.Cole. Well there are some new kids on the block who are trying to make a name for themselves. This is a list of the top 5 young rappers in the game.
5: Lil Yachty
At number five is Lil Yachty. Lil Yachty has made a name for himself with his feel good songs and red beaded dreads. The Georgia rapper has released four studio albums.Yachty released “Summer Songs 2” “After Da Boat” and “Lil Boat” all in the year of 2016 and released “Teenage Emotions” in May 2017. Yachtys song “One Night” went platinum, got 39 million plays on Soundcloud and peaked at number 49 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. Lil Yachty was picked for the Double XL Freshmen class of 2016.
4: Lil Uzi Vert
At Number four is Lil Uzi Vert. On April 15th, 2016 Uzi dropped his second studio album “ Lil Uzi Vert vs. the World.” This album features songs “You Was Right”, “Ps & Qs” and “Money Longer.” “Money Longer” it peaked
at number 54 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Money Longer” has 110 millions plays on soundcloud, and is certified 2x platinum. Lil Uzi also released his third studio album on his birthday, July,31 2016. This album featured songs “ Erase Your Social”, “Seven Million” and “Do What I Want.” Most recently, he released his long awaitedfourth studio album “Luv Is Rage 2” was released on August 25, 2017. “Luv Is Rage 2” debuted at Number One on the Billboard 200, and sold over 208,000 copies in its first two weeks and is still the number one album out on iTunes. This album features, “Xo TOUR Llif3”, Lil Uzis biggest song so far peaking at number 7 on the U.S. Billboard top 100. It also has 128.6 million plays on Soundcloud, and is certified 3x platinum. Uzi was also picked for the Double XL Freshmen class of 2016.
3: Big Sean
At Number three is Big Sean. Big Sean has released four studio albums. Big Sean dropped his debut album “Finally Famous” June 28th, 2011, his second studio album, “Hall of Fame”, in August 2013, and his third album “Dark Sky Paradise” on February 24th, 2015. It may have been winter when he dropped “Dark Sky Paradise” but nobody was cold when they listened to it because it was some heat! With tracks on it such
At number two is Travis Scott. Born in Houston, Texas, Scott has released two studio albums so far. His first studio album, “Rodeo”, was released September 4, 2015. “Rodeo” contains songs such as “3500 feat. Future & 2 Chainz” and “Antidote.” The latter became his highest-charting single on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 16. “Rodeo” debuted at number one on billboard top 100 albums chart. His second album, “Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight”, was released September 2, 2016, and was Travis Scott’s first number one album on the U.S. Billboard 200. Travis was picked for double XL freshmen class 2013.
1: Migos
Finally at number 1 is Migos. This rap group has three members, Kiari Cephus, Kirshnik Ball and Quavious Marshall, also known as Offset, Takeoff and Quavo. They were all born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and have reached great success as a family group, since they are all related Quavo and Offset are cousins and Takeoff is Quavo’s nephew. The Migos have dropped 7 studio albums, their first album “No Label” was released June, 1 2012, and on January 27, 2017 Migos released their most recent album “Culture.” Migos member Offset confirmed that “Culture 2” will be released in October of 2017. The Migos are also credited with releasing one of the biggest rap song “Bad and Boujee.” “Bad and Boujee” was number one on the Billboard top 100, with it’s popular line “Raindrops Drop Top”, and was certified 4x platinum.
W of co im
NOVEMBER 2017
SPORTS 23
Sports fundraising needs to be improved Chris Moon Managing Editor Fundraising plays a significant role in supplementing the needs of any high school sports team. The money acquired through fundraisers can be used to pay for equipment, jerseys and anything else the team buys to meet the needs of their players. Hayfield’s current process of fundraising is sufficient for raising money to pay for of all of the essential equipment required over the length of a season. Unfortunately, there are several athletic teams that are short on funds, having to fundraise just to cover their immediate costs. Because of the lack of available funds, there is little extra money to pay for the major improvements that student athletes may desire. Instead, the first priority of most teams is to cover the costs for essential equipment that the players and coaches will need throughout the year. “A lot of people think [that] basketball just needs to buy basketballs, and [for] baseball they just need to buy baseballs but there’s a lot of little equipment
[needed] that you don’t realize,” Varsity Baseball Head Coach Mike Shore said. “With baseball, we need to buy buckets, we need to buy baseballs, we need to buy stuff to improve the field, stuff like that. So it’s a lot more than the actual ball that you’re using for the game.” These teams are able to raise enough money to supplement their annual expenses, but some players want to do more with the money they raise. “New sports equipment and personal trainers that are specialized in their sport would be nice to buy with the money students raise during fundraisers,” junior Nick Newry said. “[This would provide] student athletes with a more in-depth instruction of what each individual needs to improve on in the sport they are playing.” To make changes like that, however, teams would have to raise a larger sum of money than they do right now. While the current method of fundraising is efficient for covering the necessary costs, teams who want to make significant changes for their programs will need to raise more money and perhaps do multiple fundraisers to pay for additional costs.
The boys lacrosse team washes a car on Oct. 14, 2017. Photo courtesy of Jaimie Austin
sophomore Emme Brent
What methods of fundrasing could be implemented?
“Going door to door can be time consuming, but also effective.”
There is no restriction for how much a team can fundraise. As long as the players and coaches are willing and able to run a fundraiser, they have the opportunity to do so and raise more money. “The teams are free to fundraise as much as they want, but fundraising takes time, it takes effort and it takes energy from the coaches and from the players,” Shore said. In the end, it all comes down to how much players value the improvements they could make with money. To change the way Hayfield fundraises, students must make their opinions known to those in charge of scheduling these fundraisers. If the students make it clear to the coaches that they want certain things that are more expensive to acquire, sports programs could adjust their fundraising strategies accordingly, perhaps running more fundraisers for student athletes who are committed to providing more money for their sport. If the teams within the sports program want to make it their goal to raise more money, there will be plenty of players who will be willing to help based on the enthusiasm students have had in assisting with the current fundraisers. “We’ve got players who stand out with signs and people in the community who maybe don’t have anything to do with the actual school drive by and [get] their car washed, and we raised a lot of money,” Junior Varsity Field Hockey Assistant Coach Jamie Austin said. “It takes the entire team really being there supporting the event for it to work.”
senior Braeden Muir “We could have a used equipment drive. Any old or outgrown equipment the players have could be sold for fundraising.”
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Chorus Concert
Electives Fair
If you enjoy music, come and support Hayfield choir in their annual winter concert.
The school will hold its Electives Fair for students to learn more about the elective courses they are interested in.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN
DECEMBER
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Band Concert
Come cheer on our band program as it performs its first concert of the year.
Swim and Dive Gunston Invitational
Gunston will hold its annual Swim and Dive invitational at the Lee District pool.
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Photos courtesy of Thomas Kinder