October 2022

Fall Rewind Kevin Gordon: The Principal p.3 Red and Black: 10 years ago p.6 The Sanderson sisters… are back! p.13

Red&Black FLORIDA’S FIRST HIGH SCHOOL NEWSPAPER Hillsborough High School | HHSToday.com 5000 N. Central Avenue | Tampa, Florida 33603 October/2022/volume 124/issue 1

BRIEFS

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October 2022

Red&Black VOLUME 124, ISSUE 1

Editor- in- Chief Mathew Moreno

Social Media Editor Jaden Mancini

Web Editor Josephine Smith

Staff Writers

Ace Valitutto, Beatriz Tortorelli, Vausi Smith, Aiden Sanders, Nia Randell, Tamie Nguyen, Ai’Jah Moore, Ella Lemieux, Anh Le, William Johnson, Sophia Jelks, Roberto Jackson, Kalyse Cromartie, Lincoln Alwood, Isela Alvarado, Alexandra Hines, Bella Pease, Kaylee Robinson, Layla Hines, Lia Rojas, Morissey Montgomery

Adviser

Sierra Kruse

Principal

Kevin Gordon

About Content decisions are made by student editors

Membership

Red & Black belongs to the Florida Student and Columbia Scholastic press associations

Awards

FSPA 2020-21 All-Florida and Sunshine Standout NSPA 2019-20 First Class CSPA 2018-19 Gold Medalist

Bylined columns represent the viewpoints of their authors

We welcome your letters, which may be edited for brevity and clarity. Submit via email, deliver to room 506 or mail to Red & Black, 5000 N. Central Ave, Tampa, Florida 33603 Email: hhstoday@gmail.com Instagram: @HHSToday

hhstoday.com

Letter from the editor Happy fall, glad to see you here.

Hope you are well from hurricane Ian. This hurricane was one of the meaner ones in recent years, being now historic as the fourth strongest hurricane to make landfall in Florida’s history.

Thankfully, the week we got off was used to prepare, catch up on work, and rest. But I want to make clear that this unofficial break was not given for no reason.

When I heard the news that they were canceling school for a week, I knew that this hurricane was unlike any other. We were spared from the destructive 130 mph winds and flooding. If you get a chance to help our neighbors in Fort Myers and other affected areas, please do so.

But onto less important things, writing this letter as the new Editor-In-Chief, feels a bit overwhelming, to say the least.

This is my formal introduction to you, as the guy running this newspaper you are about to read. While I might know you outside this paper, I just want to say hello, nice to meet you, and I’m happy you are reading this.

I’m just popping here to first make sure that you are well from a few weeks back and the closing of the quarter, and to let you know more about the process behind this issue.

You will notice that this paper looks different, from its layout and logo. I tried marrying the designs from past editions. This paper is a new start for this historic newspaper and an evolution of what came before it.

As for the staff, I can say with honesty that I’m hopeful about them (not that I shouldn’t be, just that it’s scary having a group of people you are responsible for).

The new staff is showing great potential in their writing and photo-taking. The stories that you will read in this paper are a testament to that.

Although a big change from what you have probably been used to, I’m proud to show you what we have been cooking up in 506 for the last quarter.

Mathew Moreno Editor-in-Chief

Important dates to look out for this semester

Oct. 1: SAT Testing Oct. 3-5: Fall Play Rehearsal Oct. 7: Hillsborough vs. Tampa Bay Tech Football Game Oct. 14: Hillsborough at Leto Football Game Oct. 21: Hillsborough vs. Newsome Football Game Oct. 24: Club Day Oct. 28: Hillsborough vs. Jesuit Football Game Oct. 27-29: Fall Play Nov. 4: Hillsborough at Wharton Football Game Nov. 5: SAT Testing Nov. 21-27: Thanksgiving break Dec. 3: SAT Testing Dec. 9: HELM Coffee House Dec. 10: ACT Testing Dec. 15: Winter Concert Dec. 24- Jan. 9: Winter Break Jan. 30: IB International Day compiled by ella lemieux

Tax referendum fails to pass in Hillsborough County The results of the voting

In the recent primary election in Hillsborough County, voters were given A total of the option to vote on a mill221,562 were age referendum but it was Yes, 110,486 cast for this voted against.

No, 111,076 referendum, Had this millage refer111,076 against endum been passed, the and 110,486 for average family would have it. It did not pass ended up paying about 63 by a margin of 590 votes. dollars a year to the school bringing in roughly $146 story by kaylee robinson million a year. graphic by mathew moreno Out of that, 75% of the

money would have gone towards a pay increase for teachers as well as funds to recruit and maintain new teachers and staff. While this referendum would have increased teacher’s pay, it also would have brought money needed to make repairs, maintain schools, and improve technology and security within Hillsborough county public schools.

While a majority of the

money would have gone towards teacher’s pay and school maintenance the district also said that the additional funds would have gone towards the expansion of art and music programs as well as physical education classes.

The district will have to wait until 2024 before trying again or pursuing a special property tax.

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hhstoday.com

Kevin Gordon : The Principal Kevin Gordon talking to the seniors on the first assembly of the year in the auditorium, during the first week of school.

Every day, at 7 a.m., his school day starts.

He walks around the H-patio. He dress codes those he sees as not following it and just tries to keep order at such an early hour before the bell rings. He locks all doors around the school to make sure no one who doesn’t belong enters.

All the seniors see him from the senior parking lot with his walkie and keys by the gate at the teacher’s entrance, right before school.

During the school day, he means business. He even started in business before being a principal. He has a degree in economics.

He saw interest in teaching and education instead. Being part of the Junior Achievement program in St. Pete High School inspired him to get his doctorate in education leadership from USF. He dresses in blue almost every day. He always wears a nice dress shirt with

Adrianna Rodriguez: full of courage She is colorful like her art and bold as any athlete can be. She cannot be stopped. Anything she does, she does it with passion and courage.

She was born with a right club foot, but that still didn’t stop her. Her early life was full of surgeries, casts, and braces, even before she turned a year old.

This early disability made walking a struggle for her.

She learned later than most kids usually do. She had to wear a brace on her feet to bed every night up until she was 4 years old.

But seeing her mom run in marathons not only inspired her to run for herself, but to always keep going in life, and not let any obstacles affect her future.

When she was around the age of 6, she ran her first 5k with her mom. Since then, she has not stopped counting her life in miles.

“My love for running comes from my mom,” Rodriguez said.

She joined the cross country and track team in freshmen year and is still going as a senior.

She runs because of her mom and does art because of her dad. She has had a great deal of influence when it

a charming vest and tie, elegant slacks and shoes, and sometimes sunglasses.

He is a very calm person. He only raises his voice to clear hallways and get all the students to their classes.

His favorite movie is “The Shawshank Redemption”. He connects with the themes of hope and perseverance in serious situations.

“Andy keeps calm through the whole thing. And just always has this positive, calm outlook,” he said.

Being the new principal, he has made some efforts to keep the school a safe and focused environment for the students. He started the year with some big policies, including no phones during the school day, and limiting bathroom passes during class time.

Most students have a strong negative opinion to say the least.

He doesn’t do things to be a mean old principal, a la “The Breakfast Club,” but because he truly cares about the quality of education of the students.

If being the “bad guy,” gets everyone to graduate high school, then he is going to take those odds any day over being liked.

comes to art and self expression from both her dad and uncle who both went to the Rochester Institute of Technology for graphic design.

Her style is mostly pop art and illustrations.

Realistic grayscale drawings pose a challenge for her, and though she has done this style in the past, color has a special place in her heart. With the bright and colorful perspectives that she loves to play with.

She likes setting her computer on her kitchen table with Netflix or a movie playing while she works on her art projects. She usually watches any movie, from action/ revenge to chick flicks. Her favorite movie to watch is “The Sandlot.”

The summer before her junior year, she painted her very first mural at Hillsborough High. It is on the third floor, and it is about the Big Red Band.

Because of this, Rodriguez was Invited by Marian Coleman, a 3DE teacher from another high school to do a commission. Rodriguez made her way to Saint Petersburg to create a mural for new the 3DE program at Gibbs High School. story by kalyse cromartie and mathew moreno

Kevin Gordon giving directions on how to get to the vestibule to a student early in the morning by teacher parking lot.

He has hope and is doing everything to get all students to graduate and be college ready. story and photos by mathew moreno

RIGHT Photograph of the finished mural Rodriguez made for Gibbs Highschool.

LEFT Adrianna Rodriguez poses next to at the 3DE program at Gibbs High School.

Courtesy of Adrianna Rodriguez.

NEWS

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October 2022

hhstoday.com

See Something, Say Something

Junior Miguel Ynoa (left) and junior Lauren Ellis during this past club rush getting people to join Students Demand Action club. This club raises awareness about gun violence in the U.S. “We do not tolerate an unsafe environment, and this student and any others who bring a weapon to school will be disciplined and face serious charges by law enforcement,” Principal Kevin Gordon reiterated once again in a phone call to all parents on Wednesday, Aug 31. Two other messages of the same nature have already been sent out this school year, detailing incidents regarding weapons on school campus: two loaded guns, and one lockout as a result of an untrue rumor.

Though none of the incidents resulted in any physical harm, nor was there any harmful intent, many students remain on edge.

Students have shared screenshots of news reports across social media- most expressing concern for their own safety, some organizing boycotts, and some defending the actions of those who brought these weapons.

“Right now, we’re in a bit of a crisis with our school and students bringing guns onto campus,” Students Demand Action (SDA) leader Miguel Ynoa said, “We need to advocate for our safety and our right to come to school without the worry of maybe not going home to our families.”

This concern has been shared by staff as well, many of whom-including Dr Gordon on the morning announcements- have been repeating the phrase “See Something, Say Something.” Though Hillsborough County students have heard this phrase since the time they started kindergarten, for many it has taken a whole new meaning this year, moving from primarily bullying and cyberbullying to carrying loaded weapons on school grounds.

Just as these incidents have evoked fear or nervousness, they may have been a result of similar feelings. According to Pew Research, 63% of gun owners cited personal protection as the main reason they own or carry a firearm. With so many threats of

gun violence in America today, it’s not unlikely that students feel unsafe, particularly in classrooms. Some have gone to much more extreme places to ensure their own protection.

“I find that tragic- that a teenager or a child needs to feel that they have to carry a loaded weapon for protection, that is absolutely heartbreaking,” SDA Sponsor Laura Wells said.

“If we all commit to being kind, seeing something saying something, and so forth, we as a school community can keep ourselves as safe as possible,” On Thursday, Sept 8, police and administration conducted searches of three random classrooms. All the students in the chosen classes had their person and their belongings searched by a metal detector or metal detector wand before being allowed to return to class.

In response to speculation about the reason for the searches, administration commented that these random searches were standard a few years ago but stopped because of the pandemic.

These searches are quite controversial

Rent is going up around the country Rent across the U.S. has risen to extreme amounts. The national average is 2,495$ and is impacting families across the country. Many families find it difficult to even buy the basics. The cost of living is being noticed by many teenagers as well.

“It’s hard knowing my mom works 40 plus hours a week and is still coming up short cause you don’t have enough to pay rent,” student Aaliyah Jackson said.

“It’s made it hard for them to pay

certain bills since they only make a certain amount,” Jackson continued.

The surge in rent affects all of the U.S. however some places have taken the hit a lot worse than others. The cost of living has gotten so bad some Tampa residents are being pushed towards homelessness. These prices are forcing families into tough positions.

“It’s tough but if we don’t pay rent, you, and your family going to get kicked out on the road. You have to get another job or ask someone for mon-

ey,” student Justin Ortez County said Despite an overwhelming majority of people saying the rent has greatly negatively impacted their lives there are some who say the cost of living hasn’t really affected them all too much.

There is also somewhat of a middle ground where people are knowingly being impacted by the cost of living but are seemingly okay with it. story by roberto jackson graphic by mathew moreno

however, as many believe they are ineffective and only evoke more fear in students.

Others see them as an important tool for maintaining a safe school environment- as long as students individual rights are upheld.

With the issue of gun control dividing the United States, and the continued fear of active shooter situations in schools, means of protection in the classroom are an important conversation to have. Though most people in politics today can agree that school safety is very important, the way to go about it is just as controversial as any of the other issues affecting America.

“Talk to your APs, the principal, go to the school board, send emails, write to your legislators who will hopefully pass bills that will end gun violence and eventually you will feel safe in your schools and communities,” Ynoa urged.

In the end, according to Wells and Hillsborough Administration, the most important thing we can do as students to ensure our own safety is speaking out about suspicious behaviors.

“If we all commit to being kind, seeing something saying something, and so forth, we as a school community can keep ourselves as safe as possible,” Wells said. story by morissey montgomery photo by jaden mancini

October 2022

Where are the teachers?

On the first day of school, many students walked into their classrooms throught the country this year and saw that their teacher wasn’t there. Instead, there was an AP or other faculty member filling the position for them, explaining that there was a shortage of teachers at the school.

Unfortunately, there is a lack of teachers at HHS that’s been causing a major problem for the school. The main reason for the shortage seems to be the salary the teachers are given for their positions.

Many students were subjected to hearing that their teacher was either away at the moment, or not hired yet.

This put a damper on most students at the school, leading them to get off on a bad start to the year. And it didn’t even start this year! It’s been a problem since 2020, leading to worse and worse consequences.

“It’s shown a major impact on the overall performance of my teachers because they are more scattered than

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NEWS

ever,” said senior Christopher German. He noticed a significant decline in the effectiveness of his teacher’s ability to perform well in the “It’s definitely affected my grades a lot, we had no teacher for the majority of last year.” said German.

“Seeing we’re getting less teachers means less people who can sympathize with us.”

Some students are disappointed about the lack of teachers at HHS. “It’s affected a lot because most of my teachers are really chill and understanding of my situations...” said junior Steve Ramnarine.

“Seeing we’re getting less teachers means less people who can sympathize with us.”

The shortage is having a devastating effect on our students at the school.

Pay is mostly the main factor that detracts many to take jobs as teachers.

“If it’s a money issue then it’s a shame because if people want to be educators, then they should it. They shouldn’t take it just because they’re taking 8 jobs and need money.” said Suzane Cooks, a reading coach at Hillsborough. Not only our students and coaches, but teachers at HHS are also feeling the strain of the shortage, especially first year teachers.

Unfortunately, there is no foreseeable plan to raise the pay of teachers, and no soon end to the shortage of teachers. This has angered the teachers at HHS even more.

This issue is not just localized at HHS though. This shortage seems to be a national problem across the states, affecting schools in different ways. story by william johnson

hhstoday.com

A recent statistic from bridgetotomorrow.wordpress.com, shows the lack of teachers for many subjects. Preparation programs for core subjects like math, earth science, physics, english and spanish are not meeting demand of teachers.

Construction is still going on Central

Construction material blocking the way in North Central Avenue infront of the school.

When construction began along Central Avenue in Fall 2021 in Seminole Heights, no one imagined that it would take as long as it has or how much it would negatively impact those at Hillsborough High School. The construction has caused nothing but chaos, and students are late because their buses arrive late and parents must maneuver through the construction in order to drop their children off. In addition, construction has made parking scarcer and it’s harder for the faculty to find a place to park their vehicles.

Senior Antonio Harris, a 17-yearold, said “My bus is late or just on time every day. It wasn’t like this last year... it’s probably the construction because it’s hard to drive the bus around the construction.”

Harris and many other students are dealing with the same issue and are upset that they do not see their friends until later and must rush to class so that they don’t miss anything.

Sophomore Sarai Ramirez, a 15-year-old, gets to school by car and leaves school by walking or riding the bus. “The construction got all this dirt up, and I don’t like getting dirt in my face!” Nobody wants dirt on their face or on their clothes. Imagine putting on your best outfit, thinking you’re the hottest person in town, only to get dirt and asphalt on you because some wind blew construction dust on you.

“It’s hard to drive around the signs and use other roads.”, Ramirez said. Taking detours and driving slower just takes more time, and, like Antonio, causes

her and many other students to be late.

It isn’t all bad, though. According to the City of Tampa website, there will be a dedicated pick-up and drop-off lane for car riders which will run along the west side of Central Avenue. In addition, there will be bicycle lanes on the northbound and southbound lanes on Central, along with a crosswalk on Wilder that will include bulb-out curb extensions, flashing beacons, and enhanced pavement markings. As of now, there is no official date of completion, but some believe it will be finished this year while others think it won’t be completed until 2023. story and photo by lincoln alwood

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October 2022

LIFE

hhstoday.com

What is the Animal Endeargement Awarness Club?

As the school year started, many clubs were created at Hillsborough for various important causes and interests.

The Animal Endangerment Club is included. The AEC’s main purpose is to spread awareness of endangered species.

“We are trying to get as many people as possible to make sure that animals are well advocated for and advertised to protect all of the endangered animals,” senior secretary Patrick McCurdy shared.

The club will also provide various opportunities for students to volunteer

and gain service hours while in the club.

In terms of taking action, club officers have been in contact with different organizations such as RSPB, and will be partnering with Wildlife Florida to help raise money for their Manatee sanctuary.

The AEC will meet during 6th period on club days and will not hold meetings after school. To spread awareness to the school, during the club’s meetings, students participating in the animal endangerment club will begin making both physical and digital posters to be

posted on their social media account and hung around the school campus.

They will be featuring different weekly endangered animals through their social media posts and stories.

“I wanted to raise awareness to endangered tigers but after I started doing research on them, I realized how much of an issue animal endangerment as a whole was, so I was inspired to start my club”, sophomore co-president Saanvi Guduru says. story and photo by beatriz tortorelli

Red and Black: 10 years ago

(Left) Senior Patrick Mcurdy and Sophomore Saanvi Gurduru pose for a picture. They are both part of the Animal Awareness, as secretary and co-president respectively

Excerpt of the Life section in the November Red and Black No. 2 issue, Volume 113. To read the full issue, visit hhstoday. com/print-edition/.

What is the First Priority Club?

First Priority, formally known as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, is a faith-based club meant to spread the influence of Jesus Christ. First Priority meets on club day during 6th period and Thursday mornings from 7:40 to 8:20. All members of the leadership board attend Grace Family Church but at different campuses. They occasionally associate and communicate with the official First Priority organization. There, they discuss plans and work out service organizations/projects/activities like inviting speakers and mentors to club meetings.

Their club rush had a big turnout of students applying to the club and attending the meetings. So far, they have had two meetings to get to know each other and to discuss their club plans. For this year, they strive to have a healthy environment because in this club, they are brothers and sisters in Christ.

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LIFE

October 2022

hhstoday.com

Re-branded club, but with the same message and goal

Their leadership board reads bible verses, and the members form groups and are given the chance to talk about their own interpretations or explanations of the verses and how it ties into their lives. This way, they can reflect aloud about their religion. The First Priority’s president Catalena Palomino leads the prayer at the end of meetings. First Priority’s leadership and members pray at the end to show their gratitude towards God.

“If there’s people that are curious about our religion or Christianity in general, they’re more than welcome to join,” Art teacher Spencer Hensel is the sponsor of the club. He considers Christianity as

Senior Josiah Comellas and senior Arnold Moran listen carefully to the Bible verse read out loud. Club Members are given a chance to give their own opinions about what Bible quotes mean in the context of their lives, and share to others their conclusions.

Beth Johns, the underclassmen representative, reads a Bible verse for the club members to reflect and to implement in their lives. one of his biggest foundations of his life. “It shapes who I am, and my entire world-view,” Hensel Said. This is only his second year of sponsoring, as he was asked by the former First Priority president last year. He has expectations for this year to go well.

“The number of kids that come to the club doesn’t really matter as much if our relationships aren’t strong,” Hensel Said. He is anticipated to see how First Priority will turn out this year and what goals they’ll achieve, such as their community service projects and worship nights.

First Priority can also be of interest to Christian athletes. To promote and expand their club, the majority of the leadership members are athletes, so they recruit their teammates to join.

Thus, they can learn more about their religion and be committed to make a difference for Christ.

They are still accepting members into their club to help unite their com-

munity. There is no limit to joining First Priority. Their club is available to everyone or anyone who is willing to learn to or share their hope of Christ with others of the same beliefs.

“If there’s people that are curious about our religion or Christianity in general, they’re more than welcome to join,” Said senior Carolyna Serena. “It’s a good thing to connect our community,” Serena Said.

Sophomore Jaden Carr, the Underclassmen Representative, joined First Priority earlier in January this year when he first enrolled at Hillsborough. Despite being in the club for a brief period, he knows what he wants as a team and is hoping to have a good kick-start for the club.

“We’d like to put you in a steps with Christ and put you in a community and have you find a purpose,” Carr said. “Because you’re special to us but you’re more special to Jesus.” story and photos by isela alvarado

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October 2022

Spirit Week

Monday Pajama Day, Tuesday Mr. 305 vs Adam Sandler, Wednesday White Lie Day, Thursday Construction on Central, Friday Class Colors

FOC

Homecoming week in

ABOVE students in the front of the DJ. Dance floor was on the third floor of the club and was composed of tables on the sides for students to put their belongings and the DJ stage. The 2022 Homecoming Dance was held at the Cuban Club in Ybor city. Students began to arrive to the dance around 7 p.m. to snacks and water. The theme of this years dance was “A Night in Pandora”, which is based on the hit movie Avatar. RIGHT Junior Julia Mazzili, and Junior Eliana Littlejohn pose with a friend infrot of a Pandora tree decoration.

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n photos

hhstoday.com Check out spirit week days and the best moments during the homecoming dance.

TOP LEFT Senior Brian Gallego is being coronated as the 2022 Homecoming King. TOP RIGHT Junior Nathan Brewer makes a stage dive into the crowd moments after becoming 2022 Homecoming prince. LEFT Student enters the dance floor with a drink from the decorated stairs.

Rained Out BOTTOM LEFT Rowing Team poses for a a picture in the rain.

RIGHT Senior Nathaniel Hoffman and Senior Jessica Chao wait in the senior parking lot before the homecoming game. The Game was postponed and later cancelled due to poor weather conditions. The game was rescheduled to early saturday morning

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October 2022

FASHION

Fall Fashion on Central

hhstoday.com

Students share their fall outfits and the inspirations behind them.

BOTTOM RIGHT Senior Daryl Jones looking stylish with a graphic button up and matching shoes. “What inspires me to wear what I wear are people like Brent Faiyaz, Lebron James, and TikTok. But really it’s just me being myself and dressing how I wanna dress without caring about being judged. I like to buy my clothes from FashionNova.”

TOP LEFT Senior Natalie Estrada is dressed up in a blue and white theme as she explores her type of style for this year. “I needed more lighter clothes because my closet is mostly full of dark colored clothes, so I wanted to try and experiment with softer colors, pattens, and styles. I like to shop for my clothes at Forever 21.” compiled by tamie nguyen

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LIFE

October 2022

hhstoday.com

Health Mutt: all-in-one pet shop

Health Mutt, a local, independent pet market, has recently moved into a new building on Florida Avenue behind the school. While the business has been in the Seminole Heights area for a while, its new location is much larger, allowing for more services and retail space.

The store offers food, supplies, toys, and more for dogs and cats, as well as many services that make it a convenient one-stop shop for pet owners.

Health Mutt offers professional grooming services, nail trimming for dogs, home delivery for food and toys, and its standout dog washing stations. The

Health Mutt employee is grooming a dog.

Who said it?

What is your favorite candy?

“There’s so many to pick from but I’d probably say Twix.”

“Trolli gummy worms are my favorite.”

Kya Carter, 9

Sarabi Espinosa, 10

“Mmm my favorite candy is candy corn, I know it’s different but i like it” Devyn Cooley, 12

stations allow pet owners to easily give their dogs a bath in the store without the hassle of washing them in a bathtub or sink at home. Additionally, the service is just $15 for a standard wash, which includes everything needed to clean your pet professionally.

There is currently construction on the building’s exterior, and the parking available is across the street.

The store as a whole feels clean, modern, and well-put together. The right side of the store features refrigerators full of alternative, fresh pet food as opposed to bags or cans of kib-

ble. Other interesting features included a treat bar, a comfortable waiting area for pet owners while their dogs are being groomed, and windows that allow shoppers to swatch the groomers at work.

The prices of most items are competitive for a small business.

The innovative pet wash station, coupled with the grooming services make it a very convenient experience for any pet owner in the Seminole Heights area. story and photo by jaden mancini

Halloween!

“Twix they’re just the best.”

“My favorite candy is m&m’s.”

Kirsten Miller, 10

Sage Skarshinski Fred, 10

“Ohh I love water melon Sour Patch “ Leylah Homes, 12

“Skittles are my fav” Karma 11

Huffman,

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October 2022

OPINION

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Stop forcing harmful policies School districts around Florida, beginning with Sarasota County on August 16, have begun adopting a new policy for handling LGBTQ+ students requesting new names or pronouns to be used at school. This policy would require the school to notify the parents of the request, potentially revealing their identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ communityoes not consent to the request the school staff will not be permitted to use the students preferred name and pronouns. If consent is given, the student and their parents must schedule a conference with the administration and a guidance counselor to set up a “Gender Support Plan.” Only then will the student be referred to with the name and pronouns they are comfortable with.

This new policy is hateful and potentially dangerous. LGBTQ+ students will no longer have a safe environment where they can learn and explore their identity without worrying about how their parents will react. It’s important for children to feel comfortable at school especially when their home situation could be stressful or even unsafe.

“People should be able to come out on their own terms, they shouldn’t be forced to,” said Sophomore Camryn Schmitt when asked why they disagreed with this new policy.

It seems like safe spaces at school are under attack more frequently in Florida. While these new policies were being implemented, Pasco County decided to ban Safe Space stickers on September 1. These little stickers usually seen in classrooms were a small symbol showing that students could feel comfortable and safe when in school. By banning them, Pasco is effectively telling LGBTQ+ students that they are not protected or welcome in the classroom.

Not only will this policy potentially endanger LGBTQ+ youth, but it also purposely makes it more difficult for them to get their proper name and pronouns used. The long process to set up the “Gender Support Plan” makes it so that students will have to jump through hoops to be properly gendered at school

even if their parents consent. This is likely a tactic to discourage them from asking for their gender identity to be respected.

“It can pose a danger to kids who are outed,” said sophomore Jessy Le, “their parents could kick them out, and they could get harassed and bullied.”

After the passing of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill this past March, this new policy isn’t a huge surprise. It was even originally part of the bill to require staff to out students to their parents before that part got removed later. This just shows how government leaders actively try to put down and suppress the LGBT commu-

nity. They are willing to go through a lot of effort to require schools to endanger children over their identity. It is concerning that this may only be the beginning of their hateful power trip. It is important for students, especially those that are member of the LGBTQ+ community to be aware of the potential dangers presenting themselves in the school system.

column and graphic by josephine smith

New School Rules are Working Better than Expected

Picture of the master discipline plan for this year. Details what actions should be taken to take care of misconduct at school. Master plan poster can be seen in most classrooms at schools.

Hillsborough High School started off this year with a fresh start. We were introduced to new faculty members, school resource officers, and even a new principal, Dr. Gordon. With all these changes came new rules with strict regulations on headphones, cellphones, and bathroom usage.

Originally for the first few weeks of school students were prohibited from using bathrooms without an administrator escorting them to the restroom. Many students and teachers experienced long waits for administrators and not having enough time to use the restrooms between classes. Since then, the school lifted the restrictions on bathroom usage by allowing one pass pre-class

and a sign-out/in sheet that students must sign when leaving or returning to class.

However, these rules evoke different opinions from the student body.

“We have a lot less suspensions since last year so I think that’s a positive thing.

As for the other things that are going on, Last year Hillsborough had a significant number of disciplinary problems with vandalism of the bathrooms and fights. The administration states their main goal is to

make sure this school year is not like last year. Since the introduction of these new school rules, fewer fights have occurred in school and there has been a significant decrease in school suspensions.

“We have a lot less suspensions since last year so I think that’s a positive thing. As for the other things that are going on, I think the improvements also come from the impact of how we’re handling discipline with having parents involved. Our main goal is to make sure that students are able to learn in a clean and safe environment” Said Ms. Witek, the assistant principal. column and photo by nia randell

October 2022

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ENTERTAINMENT

hhstoday.com

The Sanderson sisters…are back!

“Lock up your children! Yes, Salem, we’re back!” Nearly thirty years later the Sanderson sisters return with Hocus Pocus 2 giving the original movie a run for its money. Actresses Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy all reprised their roles as Winifred Sanderson, Sarah Sanderson, and Mary Sanderson respectively. Hocus Pocus was first released on July 16, 1993 and was directed by famous Disney director Kenny Ortega. A sequel to the first film that caught many by surprise was released on September 30th, 2022, to Disney + and was directed

by Anne Fletcher.

With many of the same actresses and actors returning to play their original roles in the second movie of the franchise, it allows bondage between families of all ages. Parents who watched the first Hocus Pocus when they were younger can now watch the newest movie with their children. Hocus Pocus 2 did a phenomenal job accommodating the new generation. The new movie as well brought more diversity as the main character Becca (played by Whitney Peak) is a black female..

The movie begins with a flashback to three young Sanderson sisters in Salem before becoming witches. It enlightens

viewers on how they became witches, which was not previously mentioned in the first movie. It then goes to the present time following a teenage girl named Becca on her 16th birthday. Becca is tricked into bringing the Sanderson sisters back to life. After a long attempt by Becca trying to prevent the Sanderson sisters from stealing her and her friend’s souls and cast a powerful spell Becca is able to defeat them unintentionally. The Sanderson sisters are no more, however, Becca discovers that she has powers and is indeed a witch.

Film director Jen D’Angelo did a fantastic job of allowing the movie to adjust to the modern day.

It was a great way to say goodbye to the original actresses who are reaching retirement age.

I wish more original characters were implemented than the Sanderson sisters and

506 book recommendations Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn is about a reporter who reluctantly returns to her small hometown to cover the murder of young girls. The story is engaging and suspenseful and it’s impossible to guess the ending. Sharp objects is unlike any mystery book I’ve ever read, specifically because of the protagonists unique position. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys mystery. However, it does contain strong imagery and themes so please use caution when deciding to read it. column by morissey montgomery

Billy Butcherson played by Doug Jones.

But regardless the movie was still excellent. Hocus Pocus 2 brings laughter, joy, and many more emotions. It is without a

doubt families will be gathered around to watch it on the tv this upcoming Halloween season. review by sophia jelks graphic by mathew moreno

Read the books the editors have been reading this past quarter

you give back to the world.

If there’s one intriguing thing about this book, it is that it’s narrated by death.

The book thief by Markus Suzak is one of those books that you pick up and can’t put down. The story follows a girl in World War II Nazi Germany and addresses both the kindness and cruelty the world had to offer in these dark times. This story is like not other, it leaves you wondering how much of yourself column by lia rojas

The Outsider by Stephen King was the book that made me decide he was my favorite author. It follows the police in a small town trying to prove a little league coach murdered a young boy but quickly takes a turn into supernatural territory. It was an incredible blend of a classic murder mystery and thrilling sci fi adventure. Its an amazing horror novel for those who like that genre. I loved this book and i highly recommend it to people who can handle darker literature. column by josephine smith

14

October 2022

ENTERTAINMENT

hhstoday.com

The Ten Best Movies of 2022 (so far) 10. Elvis

Baz Luhrmann’s cultural phenomenon is an instant classic. The hero of this movie and its saving grace was Austin Butler playing the titular role of Elvis Presley. Butler nails everything about Elvis down to the smallest imperceivable detail; He wasn’t just Austin Butler playing Elvis, he was Elvis for all 2 hours and 39 minutes.

The luxury, prestige, and international fever that was Elvis Presley was captured near perfectly as the film plays through many events of Elvis’s life from his first ever show to his tragic death. However, where the

9. The Black Phone

The Black Phone is one of the best horror thrillers of the year starring Ethan Hawke as the terrifying grabber and Mason Thames as our

movie falters is the awful pacing and editing where all the important events feel rushed and somewhat montaged. Some scenes in the movie go on for multiple minutes longer than they should’ve as for some time the audience is sitting there and wondering when the scene will end which ruins the atmosphere built by Austin Butler. Another problem is Tom Hank’s character who honestly seemed comic book-ish and almost too silly to be true. Overall, Elvis shows Austin Butler at his peak yet is gutted by the awful pacing and questionable editing.

79/100

brave protagonist. The Black Phone tells a story of a boy who has been kidnapped by an ominous abductor as the boy is being held in the kidnapper’s basement. However, everything changes when the boy can hear the abductor’s previous victims that try to help him escape. Ethan Hawke’s performance is nothing short of terrifying, every action he does is deliberate and invokes the feeling of pure dread. The tension building is great and the minimalism works in the favor of the film. The only dig on this movie doesn’t even have to do with the movie itself, instead, it has to do with the poor marketing. The movie was marketed as a strict horror movie with scares galore; this unfortunately was not true as the movie was much more of a contained thriller that subverted expectations and oversold the horror element.

83/100

8. Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness

Now please hear me out… I know the general consensus of this was that everyone called it trash or mediocre when it first came out however let us stop and reflect for a moment. MoM followed Spiderman No Way Home for the MCU, No Way Home was legendary as it set expectations astronomically high with multiversal cameos and fan service moments. Multiverse of Madness however at its core was a character film, introducing us to America Chavez and having Scarlet Witch’s arc come full circle in a demonic villainous turn. The Multiverse was simply an element used for the plot and not for character cameos. It was because of Spiderman NWH’s hype that made Kevin Fiege force the director, Sam Raimi to reshoot the film to have the Illuminati

and subsequently feature Professor X and John Krasinski’s Mr. Fantastic. Stylistically MoM is incredible, full of Sam Raimi’s cheesy horror vibe and vibrant colors. The script is a little weak as some lines come off as a little too corny (even compared to Sam Raimi’s filmography). The real highlight of this movie comes during the fight between Wanda and the Illuminati which ends in a shocking and extremely violent fashion and was a 180, especially for a studio like the MCU known for lighthearted comedies to deliver such a shocking moment. Overall MoM also developed Wanda’s character as a delusional and crazed mother who has lost all semblance of empathy and will do anything to reunite with her family. The film has its fair share of flaws; However, I believe that the pros outweigh the cons in this situation 85/100 reviews by aadeesh jain graphics by mathew moreno

To read the other reviews and see what movie go the first place on our list, visit hhstoday.com.

15

SPORTS

October 2022

hhstoday.com

Football season recap Check the scores for the last couple of games this past football season. The Terrier football teams has an avarage win rate of 3-4 (43%). (as of Oct. 17)

6-70 win against Leto

0-28 loss againts Tampa Bay Tech

24-21 loss against Gaither

UP Junior Khai Ponder makes a touchdown during the first quarter during Gaithers game DOWN Freshman Darryon Jones makes a play with the football towards the endzone.

UP Junior Jacquez Gibson makes a run towards the endozone in the first quarter of the Leto away game. DOWN Team gathers during first quarter.

Senior Shaunak Joshi throws a pass to junior Jacquez Gibson during the first quarter of the Tampa Bay Tech home game.

compiled by mathew moreno

New scoreboards

For the past 20 years, Hillsborough has had the same scoreboard, but at the start of the school year it got three new ones. One in the football field, and two in the gym.

According to football coach Earl Garcia, the funding for the new scoreboards came from the district.

“The school district paid for it,” Garcia said “the whole district got one.”

Compared to the old scoreboard the new one has the sponsor who funds the football program and a new screen.

At the moment the screen has a handful of automated messages that will be shown during the sports games that are held in the gym and the football field.

Next year, the school will be able to have full access to the screen, giving more flexibility to do more creative things with it.

With the new scoreboard, it’ll definitely help bring the school spirit up. story by layla hines photo by mathew moreno

New football field scoreboard showing messages during the halftime of the oct. 7th game agaisnt Tamp Bay Tech.

16

October 2022

GAMES

hhstoday.com

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