Livewire Vol 3 Issue 1 November 2012

Shock Attack

Shockey Clears The Hallways

Rachel’s Challenge You Can Start A Chain Reaction

Homecoming ‘12 Askins And Marksbury Take Their Thrones

November 2012 Volume 3, Issue 1 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 1

11/26/2012 8:17:26 AM

From the desk of the editor-in-chief You would be hard pressed to find educators to say positive things about an accountability index. We are, by nature, supposed to be critical of measures that bog down our classes, strip our creativity and force the notion of teaching to the test down our throats.

Yet I sit here praising what has arisen from the ashes of CATS as a result of Senate Bill 1. The old system really pigeon holed both students and teachers into a corner. Examples are everywhere.

CATS test vs. EOC The central figure of accountability, the CATS test itself, was given to kids at the end of a given school year and was in no way attributed to the course that students were taking. Basically if a student showed up after a rough morning and decided to bubble ABACADABA down the scantron, they could do so and would score a novice and their social studies grade would remain a 98%.

Last year was our first year with the end of course exam. This test is directly linked to 20% of a grade in biology, English II, Algebra II and US history. That has given students the buy-in that teachers have desperately sought. That buy in has also upped teacher motivation to prepare students knowing that they will have to enter those scores into the grade book.

Portfolio vs. Program Review The dreaded writing portfolio was a compilation of four years of student writing. Seniors were forced to choose their five to seven (depending on year) best writing pieces including two from non-English areas.

Generally speaking, this led to senior English class turning into a portfolio prep class with teachers helping students polish pieces that they finished long before they became seniors. In fact, some of the pieces, especially from transfer students, had to be entirely fabricated on the spot.

With the new program review, which spans to arts and humanities and practical living as well, the shift is from the idea of a final product to the writing process as a whole. The assessment is based not on what students do produce, but how they produce it. The evidence stems from the writing process from prompt creation to final draft and even delves into administrative support and professional development. It is a much better indicator of what is actually happening in the classroom on a daily basis.

The only thing holding this process back is an overall lack of funding from the state. The scoring cycle was originally intended to alternate between district level and state level. As happens with unfunded mandates, instead the state will not be involved which leads to a playing field which is potentially not level. We can only hope this gets fixed. I am not counting on that however.

On-Demand Like the writing portfolio, seniors took the on-demand test in the spring of their senior year, well after senioritis had come into play. The result was horrendous for us. Students who essentially were already accepted into college and had passed all of their required classes were asked to give one last superb effort before they crossed the stage. The result was essay after essay about dragons and wizards from kids who knew we wouldn’t get the results until midway through their first semester of college.

Thankfully, the test has shifted to sophomores and juniors. It’s exciting not just because those kids are still accountable to us as students, but we can actually look at their results and help them address their shortcomings before they leave us. Knowing they take it in consecutive years also gives us an idea of growth.

ACT Everyone knows the ACT. Not everyone knows the degree in which it has crept into our daily lives. The end of course tests mentioned earlier are also produced by ACT, as is much of the material those EOC teachers use.

I like that our kids are comparable to others in the nation. The only real downside I see is that not every state has gone as far as Kentucky to make all students take the test. That makes the results nationally a bit skewed.

Still, the buy in is simple for students who need the test to go to college. The only change that must be made is for the state to allow the best individual student scores to count toward our accountability rather than the one test that the state pays for in the spring of their junior year.

Overall, the changes are good and hopefully you have taken a long look at your scores and understand that if they are lower than they are used to, that’s okay. It’s an entirely different system. It would be the equivalent of a football team play soccer and wondering why they weren’t scoring as many points. It’s just the nature of an entirely new test. Stick with us. We are heading in the right direction and all indicators point to that.

Above all though, know what is ahead and be sure to handle your business.

Larry Steinmetz

APRIL November 20112012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 2

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editor-in-chief Larry Steinmetz managing editor Emily Nalley executive editor Keenan Cischke copy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor creative editor advertising editor business manager staff writers Blake Allen Zachary Allen Ashley Anderson Bree Beichler Collin Britt Ashley Browning Leah Byars Jennifer Cischke Keenan Cischke Taylor Collins Tori Collins Nicholas Crawhorn Jacob Davis Jessica Despain Breanna Devine Allison Drake Samantha Ewing Kim Flaherty Cameron Frank Samantha Gentry Kody Giltner Cassidy Grom Jessica Hanna

r u (college) ready?

Emily Priddy Kendall Mayfield Kody Giltner Leah Byars Penny Schmitz Katie Warner Bree Beichler Ashley Anderson Bri Hare Jasmine Hester Reilee Hobbs Elsa Holmgren Austin Jewell Zach Mattingly Kendall Mayfield Kelley McCann Whitney Messer Taylor Miller Elynn Mullaney Emily Nalley Hannah Perdew Mackenzie Perdue Emily Priddy Alex Richardson Morgan Saylor Penny Schmitz Haley Simpson Logan Stone Lauryn Waldridge Katie Warner Jared Woodruff

Livewire was re-founded in 2001 by journalism teacher, Larry Steinmetz. In the past, the Livewire has been a weekly newspaper, but moved to a newsmagazine published five times a year in 2011. The staff remains comitted to bringing the Bullitt East community the most up to date news in a quality format and timely manner. To get breaking news, sports updates, and more go online to ww2.bullittschools.org/ behslivewire.

The staff appreciates your patronage and, as a public forum, encourages any feedback you care to offer. Letters to the editor must be typed and submitted via e-mail, to Mr. Steinmetz’s mailbox, or directly to room 324 within one week of the publication to which you are responding.

Letters will not be censored, but must be deemed appropriate by the editor and advisor in order to be published. In order to be eligible to appear in the paper, all letters must be signed and verifiable. Names can be witheld upon request, but must be submitted with the original letter.

Livewire is published by the students and for the students of Bullitt East High School, Emailing Mr. Steinmetz directly is the best way to reach the staff. His address is larry.steinmetz@ bullitt.kyschools.us. The Livewire is printed by Publishers Printing Company.

Bullitt East High School 11450 Highway 44 East, Mount Washington, Kentucky, 40047.

(502) 869-6400.

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 3

Ready, Set, Succeed 10

The rules have been changed for this year’s sophomores, Kim Flaherty gets all the inside information on exactly what it takes to be ready for the future.

The Shock Attack 13

She’s mostly known for her favorite phrase, “stay to the right!” but Alex Richardson took on the job of getting to know exactly who Mrs. Shockey really is.

Big Talent; Small Town 16 Mostly they are odd but they agree this is not the end, Whitney Messer takes the task of finding out what it’s like to be a part of the band Odds and Ends.

Challenge Accepted 20

The chain reaction has started as the student body was given the Rachel’s Challenge. Bree Beichler goes to figure out exactly how the students feel about the program.

Lean or Mean? 24

Jessica Despain and Jennifer Cischke go head to head to tackle the conterversal topic of parenting skills in today’s society.

HUMAN Volume INTEREST 3, Issue 1 11/26/2012 8:17:46 AM

The Principals of Change

Mrs. Burke

articles by Nick Crawhorn and Penny Schmitz l layout by Katie Warner

B.E. has a new starting lineup.

But instead of on the field it’s in the faculty; Traci Burke, one of several new principals is looking forward to her first year in the Charger Nation.

Ms. Burke’s smiling persona is new to East but that’s not all she plans to bring. Our new assistant principal wants to make leadership a priority within B.E. All that’s left is making a smooth transition.

“I really just want to build relationships first,” stated Burke. The former North Hardin High School teacher is making an easy transition into the 2012-2013 school year by backing up her statement and making friends with faculty and students alike. She has an “enthusiastic, friendly, and professional attitude,” which “made her an extremely strong candidate and she should fit in well at BEHS,” wrote Superintendent Keith Davis.

Aside from a good personality, Burke also wants to bring leadership to curriculum and instruction by working with BE’s teachers, “It’s my passion, it’s my strength.” Dedication to East is a priority to Burke, who has obtained a laundry list of responsibilities including: discipline for sophomores, juniors, and seniors last names A-K, managing textbooks, and the after school peer tutoring program Homework Help Center. It’s apparent that she is already showing involvement with BEHS. Family and religious life are also aspects that Burke finds very essential. She is married and has two sons at ages two and four. When asked what she would really want students to know, she responded with the belief of the importance in family and church. She also revealed that she formerly coached volleyball and girls basketball at North Hardin High and admitted that she would not be getting involved this year with East teams, but would definitely be showing charger pride.

Burke confessed that without colleagues to lean on her transition would have been much more nerve racking then what it was. Luckily for her and for the rest of Bullitt East, she was accompanied by Mr. Foster and Mr. Barger who share her role as new kid on the block. “The staff is awesome,” said Burke with confidence, as she exemplified her appreciation for all veteran B.E. staff members, who gave her a warm welcome. “I feel like I’m fitting right in,” affirmed Burke, and that is something both staff and students can agree with.

Mr. Barger Lee Barger is the fresh found Charger and is here to stay.

Mr. Barger, previously a teacher at North Bullitt, made the transition to East to become an assistant principal.

He has many responsibilities around school and plans to change them for the better. Faculty describe him as a pleasure to work alongside of. Outside of school he is a husband, father, and a ‘Renaissance Man’.

The goal of high school is to have students qualified to enter college and the real world, Barger agrees by stating, “I want each student to be successful after they leave Bullitt East.” One way he plans to do this is by improving attendance. If a student is not there to learn and digest the material, then it makes it harder not only for the staff to prepare the student, but for the pupil missing school. Barger has high standards for the students and faculty by commenting, “I want B.E. to be 100% in attendance every year that I’m here.” Not only does he have high standards for the attendance, but also for the attitudes and behavior of the teachers of the science and practical living department, by checking in to see if lesson plans are posted outside the door, insuring that the learning targets are visible for all students, etc.

The transition was nerve racking, but Barger didn’t have to brave the storm alone. New principal Willie Foster and assistant principal Traci Burke made the transition with him. “The staff is great, they helped make my transition smooth,” affirmed Barger.

Many of the faculty have already grown fond of him like fellow assistant principal, Mr. Troy Wood, who commented that, ”Mr. Barger has been a great addition to the Bullitt East staff. He is a dedicated and hard worker with a real passion for the profession. We are lucky to have him on the administrative team.”

Outside of school, Barger is quite the ‘Renaissance Man’. His drive for knowledge and a continual thirst for intelligence is backed up by the plethora of degrees he has procured. He obtained his masters from Western Kentucky University as well as a masters in science at University of Louisville. Currently he is working a degree in biology. He has been married for seven years and has a sixteen month old son. Hobbies include home improvement, playing basketball, fishing, cheering for his favorite team, University of Louisville, and working with the Young Men Christian Association (YMCA).

November 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 4

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e n o Z d e R

Article and Layout by Hannah Perdew and Samantha Gentry

nd Article a “SLOW CLAP!” The Red Zone Rowdies have stepped up their game this year and are back better than ever.

Kaleigh Sharpe is the student leader and Momma Jo is the adult supervisor. The Red Zone has more student involvement and attendance than in the past. The Red Zone plans to theme home games and start attending a larger variety of sporting events in the future.

Surprising enough, a student leader was not picked. Junior Kaleigh Sharpe expressed her desire to do something for homecoming to Momma Jo and things just fell into place after that.

However, Sharpe is no one-man show, there are many other students who help out. The boys basketball team is largely participating this football season. Once football season ends, the plan is for the football team to help take over during basketball season.

Adult involvement is minimal in the Red Zone.

Although Momma Jo is the Red Zone’s supervisor, Sharpe stated, “We get to make our own decisions”.

As most have noticed, some changes were made this year to improve the Redzone. The

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students decided to theme the nights of home games. “Even though people think they’re stupid, it makes it more fun and brings us together,” said Sharpe.

As a result, Red Zone attendance has gotten a lot higher and excitement is more noticeable. “There are a lot more people this year and there’s a lot more school spirit,” stated teacher and head cheerleading coach Nate Fulghum, a regular attender of the games.

Here’s the question everyone’s asking: what does the Red Zone have in store for the rest of the year? “The Red Zone wore togas for Homecoming, and pinked out for the North Bullitt game,” said sophomore and Red Zone member, Austin Wheeler. Those are just a few of the themes. This school year the Red Zone plans to have more unique themes than previous years to boost school spirit and get more people involved.

Aside from themes, the Red Zone also plans to be incorporated into pep rallies and to attend more sporting events for a wider variety of Bullitt east sports. Plans for a Red Zone tshirt are already underway. They also want to try to bring back the “roller coaster” this year.

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Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 5

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R o w d i e s FEATURES 4

11/26/2012 8:18:52 AM

A.Get an Agenda:

Agendas are a great way to stay organized and keep our long-term and short-term assignments straight.

B.Have an A Day

and B Day Backpack:

Having two backpacks minimizes the amount of stuff you have to have in your back. Not only keeping you from back strain it’s a great way to keep your A Day and B Day things separate.

Is It Really As Easy As ABC 123?

Article by Haley Simpson l Picture Submitted by Haley Simpson l Layout by Elynn Mullaney

Starting this school year, what students recognized as their daily schedule of four hourand-a-half classes per semester was ripped up from underneath them and replaced by the new AB schedule.

that the entire schedule would be renovated so that while students are still taking eight hour-and-a-half classes (with five minute class changes) per school year, students are taking them all at once.

Last year, former principal Debbi Atherton began making plans to implement the AB schedule consisting of eight classes at one time while rotating between A and B days.

Stress has been a major factor this year due to the overwhelming jump from only four classes at once to eight. Not only have students been thoroughly affected with the schedule change, teachers have had to completely alter their ways of lesson planning and some teachers have even been given new classes to teach.

If you look at the student body as a whole there are many different types of people, but a majority of them have one thing in common: stress. Due to the increase of classes students are taking at once, many have found themselves more stressed than they normally would be. Keeping track of eight binders, twice the homework, what’s due on each day, and what classes they actually have to go to on that day can be very confusing. “We talked about stress today [September 7th] in my pysch class and overwhelmingly “school” was the number one stressor in students’ lives. When I asked them for more specifics they said it was schedule related,” said social studies and psychology teacher Doug Osborne.

For the past several years, Bullitt East has had the same schedule that students came to know as their daily routine. They took the same four classes from August to Christmas Break, and then switched to four different classes from January to the end of school. But starting at the beginning of the last school year Atherton and the Site Base Council started to make plans to alter the schedule. After voting and taking it through the Board of Education, it was confirmed October APRIL November 2011 2011 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 6

Junior Baliee Marizan, who is taking several AP courses this year, agrees that the new schedule is a huge stressor. “It’s eight classes in one day for me. It doesn’t matter if I do or do not have homework. I still have to turn it in whether i’m in that class or not,”

C. Locker Shelves:

Locker shelves not only keep your locker organized but they are a great way to keep your A Day and B Day binders, folders, notebooks, etc. separate. Put your A Day on top and B Day on bottom to keep it organized. stated Marzian.

While some students are feeling more pressure this year some aren’t as stressed. “I like it because it gives us more time to do our homework, and if we don’t like a class we don’t have it every day,” said senior Bradford Higdon.

With a different schedule teachers have had to rethink the way they plan and teach their classes. Osborne has changed his class schedule from doing weekly bell work and quizzes every week, to doing them every two weeks. Also, to keep himself organized while planning, he color-codes his different classes. “I am a visual learner,” said Osborne, “so color coding my classes and the days really helps me. I was very overwhelmed at first, but after I got it color-coded things fell in place.” ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 11/26/2012 8:18:59 AM

myStory articles Emily Priddy l photos submitted by Emily Priddy l layout Emily Nalley

Nick Kinser

Evan Kerr

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 7

Junior Nick Kinser joined Bullitt East choir sophomore year without actually deciding to join himself. It was the final day for class sign-ups and he hadn’t chosen a class for one of his blocks yet. His friend, Evan Kerr, took his paper and began to fill out the Advanced Choir sheet. Kinser started to get excited about his new class. “I didn’t really have a problem with it because I mean, I kind of already like singing. I guess I just didn’t see myself in choir at all,” says Kinser. Later on, he found out about a smaller choir that performs more than regular choir called Chamber Chorale. He recently tried out and made it. His favorite memory while singing is being a part of the Chamber Choir. He will also never forget his first day in the class because the difference in introduction. “Usually you walk into a class at the beginning of the year and the first thing you do is go over paper work and class rules” says Kinser, “but once I walked in and put my stuff down, we started singing.” Kinser sees the class as out of the ordinary and fun. “Whether it’s chamber chorale or just regular choir, it’s the chance to get to walk into a room full of really awesome people who all have at least one thing in common; loving to sing.”

Junior, Evan Kerr is a current member of the choir because of his family background. He joined when his mom had talked to him about how his whole family had been connected to music in some way, so then he decided to join and try it out. “Well, I come from a musical background, so my mom basically pressured me into it,” said Kerr. Turns out, it wasn’t a bad idea because now Kerr loves the class and looks forward to singing everyday surrounded with the background and the teacher. “Choir is my favorite class and singing with all of my friends makes it even better. Ms. Gary is probably a lot of the reason I like the class so much, too.”

Kerr says. Along with his love of singing, Kerr enjoys being able to spend everyday in the choir room. Since it wasn’t a first hand decision, he’s glad he made it. “If I didn’t have choir everyday, I don’t think I would be as motivated to come to school like I am now. Its just fun, definitely something to look forward to,” said Kerr.

He isn’t sure about a certain singing memory because of the huge variety he has to chose from. “I don’t have a specific memory, but one thing i can say is that i will remember every moment i’ve spent with choir,” states Kerr. He is undecided about how far singing will take him but while he’s in high school, he just wants to grasp every moment with choir as he can.

HUMAN FEATURES FEATURES INTEREST 6 11/26/2012 8:19:27 AM

Farner Finds Herself Fighting For a Finalist Spot l article by Penny Schmitz layout by Kody Giltner

Senior Kelly Farner has successfully qualified to be a National Merit Scholar semifinalist and could find herself as a Finalist in February.

The National Merit Scholarship program is a highly touted program that provides distinguished recognition to outstanding students, and rewards their abilities with a variety of prizes. Farner qualified to be in this distinguished position because of her high scores on her PSAT/NMSQT test, last year as a junior.

Farner has had help along the way from her school and teachers, and is still waiting to see if they helped enough to make her a National Merit Scholar Finalist.

Since 1955, the National Merit Scholar Program has been a leader in recognizing students across the country for their academic achievements. Being a Merit Scholar helps students in a number of ways.

First off the program gives out small monetary scholarships of their own but none with very significant values when it comes to paying for college. The program does however put their scholar’s names in for numerous scholarship opportunities sponsored by different corporations. Also, universities across the country recognize the achievement in being a Merit Scholar and offer very well endowed scholarships of their own to students who have received this honor.

Being a National Merit Scholar brings not only recognition to the student but also to the student’s school. According to Mrs. Barr, having a Merit Scholar would give the school an un-

October APRIL November 2011 2011 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 8

told amount of “...bragging rights...” She also recognized that it is a “...big honor...” to have someone like a Merit Scholar in the school.

East has taken steps already to recognize Farner, as they announced her achievement at the homecoming football game.

would think that Farner did endless preparation in anticipation for the test, but this is contrary to the truth. “As for what I actively did to prepare, I pretty much just skimmed through a practice booklet and put fresh batteries in my calculator,” said Farner.

Although being a semi-finalist is a big deal, Farner is taking it all in stride, as evident when she recalled how she was told by Mrs. Terry, “Mrs. Terry came up to me in the library before school, hugged me, and said I was on her list. I had no idea what she was talking about.

Once she explained I suppose I was excited, but I didn't get up and do my touchdown dance or anything. I know it's a big deal, but the attention is kind of embarrassing.”

Although Farner’s own intellectual prowess was a big factor in her getting such a good score, she is not so proud as to not give some credit to her school.

“I know it’s a big deal, but the attention is kind of embarrassing.”

Farner did not just happen along one day and become a semi-finalist. She had to first score very high on the national PSAT/NMSQT test to even qualify. This test is used by National Merit to “screen over 1.5 million students across the country” (courtesy of the official National Merit Program website).

Very high on this test did Farner score indeed with a 222. The score was high enough to place her in the top ninety-nine percentile in the nation. According to Barr the score that students have to reach to become a semifinalist changes every year with the tests results. However, it is usually above 200, with the highest score possible being 240.

“Bullitt East has actually helped me a fair bit.

I know people at other schools who haven't even heard of AP courses or who don't have near as many options as we do, so it's actually been able to give me a decent challenge with difficult classes/coursework, for which I'm thankful.”

Aside from the school as a whole, Farner added that she has favorite teachers at school like all students, hers being Mrs. Wimsatt and Mr. Vincent, she said “So I guess I try to do well to impress them.”

Moving forward in her future Farner has a great opportunity in front of her which can provide her an unimaginable amount of support financially, and mentally.

“I guess in the present it's mainly a pride thing - I want to know that I'm good enough - so I'll have to find the time to study for and take the SAT. Futuristically, I hope it'll open more doors - get me more money to offset the cost if I end up going to school out of state” stated Farner.

Farner is still waiting like all other semi-finalists, and will not know if she has qualified to be a finalist until February. May the odds be ever in Farner’s favor!

To get such a high score on the exam, one ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 11/26/2012 8:19:59 AM

Rock, Daniel

Farner is in the ring going blow for blow with heavy weights, and her brain is the one with a deadly right hook.

What degrees do you have?

I have an Undergraduate in finance and a Masters to teach business.

What do you do outside of school?

My hobbies include reading, real estate, hunting, farming, spending time with my family, watching college basketball, and most of all, helping my son with his jumper.

Where did you go to college?

University of Louisville.

compiled by Allison Drake | layout by Katie Warner

What is the most important thing in your life right now?

Mr. Rock- Bus

iness Teacher

Mr. Daniel Roc k is a first year teacher at Bullit lives in Hodge t East. He nville, KY with his wife and 14 Cannon, but is -month old son, looking for a ho use in The Mou Rock is an assi nt to call his ow stant coach for n. the Lady Charg and likes to he ers soccer team lp out with base ba ll as well. Befor teacher, he wor e becoming a ked as an AVP/ Loan Officer in years. So far, he a bank for ten is very impresse d with the spor and culture of ts, academics, BE, stating that it is, “the best school in the st ate.”

The most important is developing my son in all facets, but also so that he can leap tall buildings in a single bound and make a visit to Cooperstown.

What is your favorite music?

I listen to about every style of music, but my favorite band is O.A.R.

Rock, Daniel

Why have you never had or even heard of a Polar Pop? I live on an island three hours from here and only swim over to teach business, but my Business Marketing class has educated me on the fundamentals of the Polar Pop. I am convinced that world peace will involve the use of the Polar Pop as a primary peace offering to all nations.

What is your favorite movie?

Very tough to name just one, I have many that I enjoy, BUT, if forced to select just one, I choose The Godfather.

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 9

Kentucky or Louisville fan?

CARDS!!!

Why did you name your son Cannon?

You realize that’s a pirate weapon right?

I haven’t thought of it as a pirate weapon, but that’s right. Actually, his grandpa had a “cannon” for an arm in baseball in the 50’s, and was good enough to hang out with Koufax and Drysdale for a couple of years, so in honor of his professional accomplishments, we named our son after him.

FEATURES 8 11/26/2012 8:20:27 AM

College &Career Ready article by Kim Flaherty l layout by Katie Warner

November APRIL 20112012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 10

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With no one lighting the way, sophomores and freshmen are stumbling around in the dark.

Most students are blindfolded and unaware of the requirement to be ‘college or career ready’ by the time they graduate.

To be considered ‘college ready’, you must reach benchmarks in either the ACT, COMPASS, or KYOTE. In order to be ‘career ready’, students must meet benchmarks in ‘career ready academic’ (ASVAB or Work Keys) and ‘career ready technical’ (KOSSA or Industry Certificate). Teachers and staff are doing everything they can to help prepare students for ‘college and career readiness’.

College Ready In order to be ‘college ready’ students have to meet or score above benchmark requirements on the ACT, COMPASS, or KYOTE. The benchmarks required on the ACT to be ‘college ready’ are an 18 in English, a 19 in math and a 20 in reading.

To be ‘career ready technical’ students have to reach benchmarks in the KOSSA or earn an Industry Certificate. KOSSA is an online business test taken only after completing three business courses. The required scores for the KOSSA are a 70 in the multiple choice portion and a 75 on the constructed response. The other option, Industry Certificates, indicates that students are certified in any computer program such as Photoshop or Indesign.

“We are doing everything we can to prepare you guys, we will get you there!”

-Mrs. Terry

If the required sub-scores are not obtained on the ACT, then students have a chance to take the COMPASS, an online test. The benchmarks required for COMPASS are a 74 in English, a 36 in math and an 85 in reading.

If scores are still not reached, the student can then take KYOTE, an online math test with a required score of 22 or higher. If none of these scores are achieved, the student is not ‘college ready’.

Thirty-forty percent of sophomores statewide meet the criteria for ‘college readiness’ according to Site Base Council member, Larry Steinmetz. Although this percentage may seem small, compared to the rest of our district, Bullitt East is ahead of its peers in ‘college readiness’.

Career Ready Another option for students is to be ‘career ready’. To be ‘career ready’ you have to have met benchmarks in both ‘career ready academic’ and ‘career ready technical’.

‘Career ready academic’ includes the ASVAB and the ACT Work Keys.

The ASVAB is an aptitude test for the military with a required score of 50. Another option is the ACT Work Keys, an online Career Readiness test with a required achievement of the Silver Certificate. Students only have to reach the benchmark requirements on one of these tests in order to be considered ‘career ready academic’.

To be considered ‘career ready’ students must meet benchmarks in one ‘career academic’ area and one ‘career technical’ area. If students do not meet these requirements then they are not ‘career ready’.

At Bullitt East, the only ‘career ready’ pathway offered is business. This is a problem considering the fact that not all students wish to pursue a career in business. “I think that the concept is really good,” stated Steinmetz, “but the problem at our school is that the students are limited. If we are going to have this requirement, we have to work harder to expand our options”

Ready In Both

Students also have a chance to become ‘college and career ready’. In order to reach this standard, students must meet benchmarks in one ‘college ready academic’ and ‘career ready technical’ area.

Some students are overwhelmed by this responsibility and don’t believe that it is the right way to go. “I dislike it strongly and think it should change” said sophomore, Christian Receveur.

The implementation of these changes comes from the state, but the requirement to be ‘college or career ready’ in order to graduate with a diploma is decided on the district level. Not only is Bullitt East requiring this for graduation standards, but North Bullitt and Bullitt Central are also involved as well.

This requirement was implemented starting with the class of 2015. So this year, this requirement only pertains to freshmen and sophomores.

Right now, if seniors were required to be ‘college or career ready’ in order to graduate, the number of students that wouldn’t graduate is “kind of scary,” said Steinmetz.

“We are doing everything thing we can to prepare you guys,” said counselor, Mrs. Terry, “We will get you there!”

scores you need to be college ready

18 19 20 English Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 11

Math

Reading HUMAN FEATURES INTEREST 12 11/26/2012 8:20:57 AM

K C

O H

S

Teacher Michelle Shockey is making her way around school this year doing what she does best; helping her students out anyway she can, even if it’s just directing third hall traffic.

Shockey is an instructional assistant here at BE, specializing in helping out students who need some extra help in their classes.

Shockey interacts with many students in a variety of ways on a daily basis and although she possesses a care free attitude and dedication to her job, she gets mixed reviews from students. Due to her new duty of directing traffic in third hall this year Shockey is seen more by more students on a daily basis and is enjoying her newly assigned responsibility.

Since her arrival during the 2006-2007 school year Shockey has fell in love East and the people who work and learn there. She alluded to the atmosphere as she said “Students and staff work as a team to be successful here at East. It’s like a big family to me.”

Loving her time here at East isn’t just spur of the moment, off the cuff banter to build up her employers either. What Shockey says

s u o Fam y e k c o h S ! s e t Quo APRIL 20112012 November NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 12

ATTACK November 2012

East Gets Its Own ‘Shock’ Week All Year Long. article Alex Richardson l photos Alex Richardson l layout Mackenzie Perdue

all comes from experiences at other schools compared to East, “I have worked almost every high school in the county, and they all have good qualities, but East by far to me is the best.” Shockey also worked at Hebron and Bullitt Central before winding up here at her current home.

Although she likes to joke and kid outside of the classroom, in it Shockey is all business.

As an instructional assistant Shockey has the important and daunting task of being there for students who “need that little extra push or help.”

Even though she does not interact with every student at school on a daily basis, Shockey does have several students she sees regularly. Senior Derek Jones, who is in a class that Mrs. Shockey regularly visits, told his thoughts on Shockey “I think she is an all-around great person, she is friendly and always there to lend a helping hand. She’s also one of the coolest people to be around.”

Jones hadn’t had much interaction with Shockey until this year but since she has added to his experience at school; “I think she adds to Bullitt East because she is helpful and willing to do whatever you need. She does her job very well.”

Every student isn’t as fortunate to have had personal experience with Shockey, like

Jones has; most students get their dose of the “Shockenator”, as she has come to be so affectionately called, in third hall where she patrols.

Shockey can be found directing traffic in between classes. “I love interacting with the students and being silly, so I try to make it fun for everyone. Yeah, some think I am annoying, but I don't worry about that life is too short to be serious all the time.”

Shockey is right about some students thinking her directing traffic is “annoying”. It can be heard every day in the hall by more than one person, telling Shockey to “get out of the way”, or “this would go a lot better if she wasn’t in our way.” Such comments don’t discourage Shockey from performing her job to its description and to the best of her abilities.

Shockey has affected students here at East whether they have wanted her to tell them which side of the hallway to stay on or not.

But even if they know it or not Shockey is hoping the best for them, “There is too much stress in the world today for all of us and if I can make even one person laugh today I'm going to do it. That's why I do my duty with enthusiasm and Bullitt East Pride!”

“Put Some Pep In That Step!”

“stay to the right!”

“PUT SOME POP IN THAT HOP!”

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 11/26/2012 8:21:28 AM

Jessica Parrish 502.608.2698 jparrishphoto@gmail.com

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 13

HUMAN FEATURES INTEREST 12 11/26/2012 8:21:52 AM

Homecomi Jared Askins Askin’ for a genuine king.

Jared Askins takes the title of football homecoming king.

Askins opens up about his true feelings on the homecoming experience. He tells the public how much his title means to him and how truly honored he feels. Over all, the voters share how pleased they are with the verdict.

Football homecoming king, Jared Askins, is no unfamiliar face around school. You can often find him in the hallway greeting people and wishing them a good day. If Askins isn’t there, you can probably locate him after school working the YMCA child care program at Mount Washington Elementary School. Wherever you may see our newly crowned king, he’s sure to be seen with a smile on his face.

“It was fantastic to know people voted for me to be king,” Askins said about being elected. He is very thankful to all of the

people who voted for him. He feels honored that out of the five guys on the court, he was chosen to represent his senior class.

Jared was pretty fond of his homecoming queen, Emily Marksbury. “I was happy to win with Emily,” Jared stated about his queen and longtime girlfriend of over 2 years.

The two weren’t the only people excited about the romantically involved couple taking the top titles. Gavin Morris, friend of the couple since Freshman year of high school, says “I was happy for them [Jared and Emily]! I feel like they really deserved it.”

Askins’ former teacher, Mrs. Comstock, was just as thrilled as his friends. “I love them and I’m so happy for both of them!” Comstock said.

After high school, Askins plans to attend Bellarmine University or the University of Kentucky to major in physical therapy.

Askins wishes to one day get rich, marry a “hot chick”, have 2.5 kids, and a dog.

Freshman

Sophomore

Abby Tucker Not only

Cole Green “It was a real

new to the school, homecoming court newbie, Friends of Rachel club member and East Cheerleader Abby Tucker was was honored to represent her class, “it was cool to know that my class wanted to me represent them,” stated Tucker after the game.

Tyler Sharpe Also a

freshman member of Friends of Rachel, Charger Basketball team, and the dodgeball club.

Tyler Sharpe was honored to be the freshman representative, “it felt really good to represent my class. I was nervous, but it was a fun night,” said Sharpe.

APRIL 20112012 November NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 14

Articles Kelley McCann and Haley Simpson l Photos

honor to be on homecoming, I love being a part of such a special school, and I loved being able to represent my sophomore class,” said Cole Green the sophomore boys representative who is not only a member of the boys Cross Country team, but a Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader.

Megan Marksbury

A member of Friends of Rachel, Leadership, Girls Basketball, and FBLA Megan Marksbury was proud to represent her class. “I loved being on homecoming, but I loved seeing my sister win more,” she stated.

Junior

Emily Fryman

FCA leader and member of the Lady Chargers basketball team Emily Fryman represented the junior class during homecoming. “I was really excited to be the junior class representitive.

Thanks to all my friends, family, and most importantly God.”

Cruise Coulter Involved

in the Chargers Football team, and a basketball Red Zone Rowdies leader, Cruise Coulter represented the junior class during homecoming, “It was awesome knowing my class chose me to represent them. It was a good night,” said Coulter.

Marty Allgeier

Red Zone Rowdie leader, Martin Allgeier, received the honor of second runner up for king.

Though he didn’t win, Allgeier said, “it felt good.”

Casie Harlow Runner

up for queen, Casie Harlow, wasn’t disappointed with her title. Looking back on the whole experience she stated, “I was thankful and excited because it is such a big deal your senior year.”

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ming 2012 Emily Marksbury

Simpson l Photos Yearbook l Layout Mackenzie Perdue

First comes love, then comes.... royalty?

On Friday, September 21st, senior Emily Marksbury took the crown as the football homecoming queen.

Even though Marksbury had an idea she would be on the ballot for homecoming she didn’t believe that she would actually take the crown. To make an already special night even more special, Marksbury shared her homecoming victory with her boyfriend, Jared Askins, and her sister, Megan Marksbury. After high school Marksbury would like to leave a great impression on East as she goes on to pursue an accounting major.

Jordan Orr Jordan

Orr was simply happy to be nominated for court this year.

“It felt good to know that I had a lot of support behind me.

Love you guys,” stated Orr. He is very appreciative of being recognized his final year at Bullitt East.

Emily Nalley

Another newbie to the homecoming crowd this year was Emily Nalley. The second runner up queen says, “it felt great being on the court this year. I’ve never been in homecoming before, so doing it my senior year was a lot of fun.” Nalley, the managing editor of the Livewire, is very appreciative of everyone who voted for her.

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 15

hope that I would win,” said Marksbury. But all of those people who had voted for other people didn’t come close to the amount that got her the crown, “I think people like the relationship aspect of me and Jared. They like how long we have been dating and they want a couple to win,” she stated.

In the movies, the girl always dreams of winning homecoming with her boyfriend, “It was a special night for both of us, we wanted each other to win but we didn’t think we would win together,” stated Marksbury.

When the voting started the week before homecoming, Marksbury already thought that she was going to be on the ballot. “I kind of expected to be nominated,” she said, “my sister (Megan) and a lot of her friends said that they voted for me, but I definitely did not think I would win.”

To make an already special night even more special Marksbury was on homecoming with both Askins and her sister (Megan), the girl’s sophomore representative.

“It was neat to share that with my sister and her boyfriend,” said Megan, “ we do a lot of things together, but this was different. We had fun getting ready together and definitely enjoyed the family aspect of it.”

Doubting she would even win, Marksbury entered homecoming week campaigning. “I would go around and tell people to vote for me and they would say they had already voted for other people, so it didn’t really give me

In her future Marksbury is undecided on where she wants to attend college, but knows she wants to major in accounting.

In school she is involved in FBLA, Cross Country, Leadership Club, and is a Senior Mentor. After leaving school Marksbury has hopes to leave a mark on Bullitt East. “I want people to remember me as someone who was always nice and friendly, and was always there for people,” she said.

Amanda Webb

Representing FBLA on the court was their very own president, Amanda Webb. “I was happy! Even though I’ve done it before, it’s a new experience every time!” stated Webb. Amanda was also the homecoming representative her sophomore (football) and junior (basketball) years.

Trey Rakes A start-

ing basketball player for the Chargers, was no newbie to the homecoming court. Rakes was the junior representative for basketball homecoming with fellow senior court member, Amanda Webb, last year.

Rakes said, “I’d like to just thank the voters for nominating me on the homecoming court.”

Mikayla Koevoets

Canadian, Mikayla Koevoets, made her debut on the homecoming court this year as well.

Koevoets says, “I was really honored because even though I didn’t win, enough people voted for me over the other candidates to get on court, which is all I really wanted.” It was a wish come true for this senior.

Scotty McIntyre

Scotty McIntyre was a new addition to the court this year.

“I was excited because it was my first time and I felt honored to represent the senior class,” McIntyre stated. Despite his first appearance on the court, McIntyre received the title of first runner up.

HUMAN Homecoming INTEREST 14 11/26/2012 8:23:36 AM

ODDS and E

“We are odd, bu

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Four local musicians started a pop-punk core band named Odds and Ends in April 2011 and recently got signed to a sub-label.

Patrick Coyle, Aaron Nall, Andrew Wagner, and Isaiah Miller have been trying to keep their band on a road to success. These guys recently signed with Little Heart Record Group. They have set many goals for the band, they hope to be successful in their rock and roll adventures.

Coyle and Wagner are the band’s guitarists. Coyle has been playing the guitar for almost five years. His friend, Jordan Porter, inspired him to play the guitar because he always enjoyed watching him play when they were together. Nall has played the drums for seven years. He originally wanted to play the guitar.

“I really just wanted to play an instrument. I got a guitar but the drums seemed so much easier. It was a natural talent,” says Nall. Miller doesn’t go to BE with the rest of the guys; he attends Jeffersontown High School. According to Nall, this is a big advantage for the band because a whole different group of kids get informed about their band and they gain more fans.

According to Nall, the guys have all gotten close and have become really good

d ENDS

, but this is not the end for us.” article Whitney Messer I picture submitted friends. He said that Coyle and Wagner are the closest because they have known each other since childhood; but he and Miller have also gotten a lot closer the past year. “Me and my friend were talking about the name for the band and he thought me, Andrew, and Aaron were a really random, odd group of guys. This gave us the name Odds and Ends,” stated Coyle.

Odds and Ends got signed to it’s first record label on September 1st, 2012.

Coyle said that signing with The Little Heart Record Group was the biggest accomplishment because they have got to perform with many awesome bands, such as Seventh Inning Stretch and Doses. “Little Heart helps us with our march and venue prices and a lot of other rad things,” said Coyle.

The Band also recently released their first album called Ocean City featuring four of their songs. “Our album is all about our older music that formed to make us the band we are today,” claimed Coyle. They also hope to be making many more.. “I think their band will go far if they keep up the good work and keep making awesome music!” stated Noah Shartzer, a fan of the band.

Some of the bands goals they hope to accomplish in the near future are: to save up money for a full length album, get new merchandise, create a new shirt, and get more people to listen to their music. “You should listen to Odds and Ends because they are amazing! You don’t know the meaning of music until you hear them play.” said their biggest fan, Talayna Jesse. Another thing they hope to do is to play out of state, Nall says that a Midwest tour is something he dreams of for Odds and Ends.

“For me, I would rather be playing my music than sitting back and watching TV. Music is just what we do and what we love,” stated Nall.

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 17

FEATURES 16 11/26/2012 8:24:02 AM

“Don’t take classes that you can breeze through to make it an easy senior year.”

-Dillon Campbell

“You really need that feeling of home when you step onto campus.”

-Rachel Pinkley

on “College is supposed to give you the materials needed to find a job that helps you succeed in life.”

-Brad Johnson

“I miss the simplicity of high school.”

-Mckenzie Perdew

Alumni advice

article by Zach Mattingly l layout by Katie Warner

Advice so nice you should read this twice.

Members of the class of 2012 stopped by to offer guidance to this year’s seniors as they move closer to their own college journeys.

The class of 2012 has gone their separate ways now but still keep Bullitt East close to heart. They advise the class of 2013 to take senior year seriously and be involved. They also agree that they need to find a good college where they can “flourish”.

Many of the members of the class of 2012 have split up. Two of them, Mckenzie Perdew and Rachel Pinkley, now attend Western Kentucky University. Brett Hatfield, one of the class’s top students, now attends the University of Kentucky. Dillon Campbell, another leader of the class, now attends the University of Louisville but is currently considering the military. Others have gone out of state. Bradley Johnson is a prime example of this as he attends Olney Central in Illinois where he plays on their baseball team.

Senior year is a critical time in life. Students must choose a college where they will spend the next four, or even more, years of their lives. On top of that, they have to apply to scholarships, some work, and all must keep up with their work from their classes.

For guidance during this difficult time, many go to last year’s seniors who just experienced this. Many of the alumni, including Bradley Johnson and Dillon Campbell, advised the seniors to take their classes seriously. Bradley Johnson stated, “I wish I would’ve taken my classes more serious. You need to know the stuff you learn in high school to be successful in college.”

McKenzie Perdew stated that she wishes she were more involved. Perdew reminisced saying, “I should have been more involved, school spirit wise.”

When the time comes to make the big college decision, there are a lot of aspects you should consider. The first aspect is the obvious one, the academic program. “They need to find a school that excels in the field you are interested in.” stated Bradley Johnson. Another important aspect is the environment of the campus. Perdew said, “The environment should be one that allows them to flourish.” Another aspect that the alumni found important was the advisors. “You need to find somewhere where they have advisors that can guide you when you feel lost.” added Hatfield.

These are a few things that seniors should keep in mind when making that oh so important college decision.

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ACT Success 1 one

Get a good nights sleep

2 two

Get your ACT together.

Counselors are striving to inform students of the importance of the ACT. There are new requirements that need to be met. Many seniors accomplished their goals junior year. With many ways to prepare, you never want to wait until the last day.

The classes of 2013 and 2014 have to make an 18 in english, a 19 in math, and a 20 in reading to attend college without taking remedial

Anton

Sego

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 19

Eat a healthy breakfast

3 three

article by Katie Warner l layout by Elynn Mullaney

Take a practice test

courses. Remedial courses are classes that help the students that didn’t meet the required score on the ACT. However, the classes of 2015 and 2016 have to meet these requirements to get their diploma. Meeting these requirements, no matter your class, can be very beneficial towards you. “Nobody wants to pay a lot for remedial courses in college,” stated counselor Tammi Terry, “It’s an easy waste of money.”

Needless to say, many seniors will not be taking the ACT again this year. It has been less than a year since the current senior class sat as juniors taking the ACT. Last year they started the No Child Left Below (NCLB) 20 method to get the

Reister

Cornell

4 four

Do an online Prep course

students to try harder. So they did. The school’s goal was an average of 20 and these students fell just shy of that with a 19.5. “I took tons of practice tests online to help raise my score,” comments Evan Reister. In March of 2012 Bullitt East moved from 108th out of 230 schools to 59th. So how will East keep it’s trajectory heading up? Principal Foster bragged, “With laser focus, keep our feet firmly on the gas, and making use of every single instructional minute,” Many students want to know what is available to help them succeed.

Bullitt East offers as much as they can every year. One being that you can receive a paper copy practice test from your counselor to take home and treat it as the real ACT. There are also several websites full of practice in each subject.

East also hosts a seminar called Zapping the ACT. It is a two day class and costs $79. Many students, however, said it raised their score by at least one point. “Don’t wait until the last minute to study,” advises senior Dillon Sego, “Start early so you will be prepared.” Many don’t realize that some classes are actually ACT prep courses. Transition math, college reading and junior math lab are all set up to help you succeed on the test. These classes are there for the benefit of the kids who need them. You have the opportunity to prepare for the ACT all school year, you decide if you want to take that advantage.

HUMAN FEATURES INTEREST 18 11/26/2012 8:24:25 AM

RACHEL’S CHALLENGE

Junior Michaela Lawson, along with many other students at East, sign the poster pledging to accept Rachel’s Challenge.

You don’t have to be a scientist to start a booming reaction.

On August 28th, Bullitt East held an assembly to recognize Rachel Scott, her wise words, and her lasting impact on the world.

Bullitt East hosted Rachel’s Challenge to bring the students together and to change the overall attitude of the school. The assembly positively impacted tthe students by enabling them to take a stand against bullying. This empowerment led to the formation of a club called Friends of Rachel, which allows students to carry on Rachel’s legacy.

Rachel Scott was one of the unfortunate victims of the Columbine shooting. Even though she can no longer stand up to bullying herself, she has passed on her gift of compassion through old journals and close friendships with an eclectic group of kids. Her generous family has put together a world renowned presentation that’s goal is to open the eyes of various students, teachers, and parents to stop unacceptable behavior and spread the word of generosity and kindness. Ms. McCroskey discovered this program through friends and was determined to find a sponsor to cover the cost because she felt as if everyone needed to experience this life changer. So, charitably, Zappos agreed to sponsor because they fully support any relevant education programs.

“This made me think of all the times I have treated people poorly and how I should change,” admitted senior, Meghan Guilliame. The reaction to this program has completely exceeded the goal of Bullitt

November 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 20

article by Bree Beichler l layout by Emily Nalley | picures submitted by John Roberts

"Since the program, students are constantly reminded of the pledge they took to follow Rachel's Challenge. Students have been trying to implement these ideas into their everyday lives. The impact this program has will shine throughout the year and for years to come."

- Ms. McCroskey East. Students have taken the message of Rachel’s Challenge and applied it to their everyday lives. Rachel asked the attendees to look for the best in others, dream big, choose positive influences, and most importantly, start a chain reaction. Students have cleaned up their act and have really reflected on their past.

At the close of the presentation, students were asked to close their eyes and imagine the ones they love, and how they should treat every conversation as if it would be their last. Although it seems like a minuscule task, it broke even the toughest students down to tears. Quinn Nation said, “After hearing this [Rachel’s Challenge] I really want my dad to know I care about him because I don’t always show it.”

Presenter, Deedee, has seen this program change kids. She said, “A lot of people are moved. People especially want to be a better person.”

The students of BEHS were more than moved; they were inspired to carry on the word of Rachel.

“Don’t let your character change color with your environment. Find out who you are and stay your color.” Rachel wrote this in a letter to a family member when they were struggling with their identity. Bullitt East took this quote personal and has set out to do exactly that. A new club, Friends of Rachel, has gathered to reform the school’s attitude and how they treat one another. At the initial meeting, 30 kids are accepting her five-step challenge and the group continues to grow.

Not only are the students involved, but they have passed on the word to the community to start a chain reaction.

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5 1. Look for the best in others

“Don’t let your character change color with your enviroment. Find out who you are and stay your true color.” -Rachel Scott

“This was about compassion and kindness impacting us as humans.”

- Mrs. Steinmetz

2. Dream Big

It’s like no other program we’ve ever had. It focuses on spreading kindness and compassion and in turn decreasing bullying in our school.” -Ms. Mcroskey

3. Choose positive influences

5. Start your own chain reaction

“How many of us have enough trust, strength, and faith, to believe we could do the impossible?” -Rachel Scott

“The presentation is thought provoking and allows high school students to take a look at themselves. It also sends a beneficial message to students and their school community.” -Officer Bruce Rucker

4. Speak with kindness

“It helped me realize things you hear are real and the stuff you say really does affect people.” -Devyn Noe

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FEATURES 20

11/26/2012 8:24:41 AM

Sitting Alone At Lunch

Pop a squat. Sit yo’ butt down. Place that bottom in the red circular chair beside mine.

Article by Penny Schmitz l Picture submitted by Penny Schmitz l Layout by Elynn Mullaney

These expressions are vocalized daily in the cafeteria by students flagging down their ‘besties’ to join them in lunch.

Where one sits in the lunchroom is a status symbol for many attending East. There are many controversies surrounding if people should be left alone while eating. Individuals choosing to sit by themselves offer a very unique view of the school and the situation.

If you have watched MTV then you have seen the commercial with the inspirational music where the girl is apprehensive after filling her tray and searching for the best place to sit.

She first sits with a group of popular girls who reject her and rise to leave. Another girl sees the situation unfold and brings her entire lunch table over to join the newbie. At the end of the commercial, the words “Reaching out, pass it on” are declared. In this specific event, the morally right thing to do was portrayed by the observant Good Samaritan. Challenge yourself to take this off the screen and into reality.

Would you pick up your tray and sit with a random student for the sole purpose of giving them company?

When eighty-five of East’s own were surveyed, seventy-nine replied yes, while only six said that they would not. Junior Laura Thompson commented that she would “try to start a conversation with them. If it were me, I would be glad to just have that company but at the same time, I don’t want to force them to talk if they don’t want to.” Her lunch table had differing opinions, like fellow junior Brittany Welsh who stated, “It’s kind of like embarrass-

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ing yourself to sit alone, I figure that they sat down where they wanted to sit. Let them embarrass themselves.” The day this question was asked, there were two people seen sitting alone. The entire duration of lunch. One can only assume that either the seventy-nine students simply did not see the student, or that they are all liars and hypocrites. Decide that one for yourself. Although, this adds a variable to the situation, if the student appeared to be upset or in distress would that change things at all?

At this point, a social experiment was a necessity. For one week I sat alone during each lunch without informing any of my comrades and waited anxiously to see the results. On the first day, results were as expected. Weird exchanges were made but within five minutes the entire table moved. On day two I took on a distressed aura and again, within five minutes the table moved and gave me concerning looks and asked questions about my mood.

At this point, I doubted my experience, maybe the conductor was the problem. Maybe it would be different if my hair was brown, or if I was male, etc. Thoughts ran in my head as I became close to coming to school dressed as a brown haired male. That didn’t happen, but the experiment continued. As the week progressed, my good Samaritans began to stay at their table leaving me to sit alone at lunch. Conversations were made, as I heard my name in others mouths. It was moderately uncomfortable but this was the reality of what students were facing every day in same lunch as I.

Many students just prefer sitting alone like junior, Chase Harrod. While many would ridicule his decision he offers a unique view, “It’s quiet, I like the quiet. I can think and zone everyone out.” In Harrod’s opinion, lunch is more of a time to begin homework rather than eat. Although he would not be annoyed or angry if a table sat with him, he simply prefers the company of his own mind.

While observing the cafeteria, a brown haired male was spotted sitting alone reading a novel. Freshman Chris Mitchell is a new transfer student from Bullitt Central.

His reasons for sitting by himself include, “I don’t communicate with them, I don’t know anyone either that doesn’t help the situation.” He placed no blame on the staff for his transition to East by saying, “they are doing the best job they can.”

So what if you were put in the situation and the conversation took a turn for the awkward. Would you stay? Thompson declared, “I just suffer through it; it would be rude to just get up and leave.” Senior Alicia Garcia had a similar response “I would stay and at least try to work it out but then it depends if they would be rude or not.”

At the end of the day, every student should at least be approached and invited to sit with a group. If they decide not to then it is their choice and it should be respected.

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y t i s a Ch r e y w Bo

article by Leah Byars l layout by Elynn Mullaney

The album changed its cover but the songs stayed the same.

Chasity Bowyer, although she made some changes this year, still enjoys varied interests like music, singing, style, and languages.

Bowyer, a senior, is widely known for her skirts and long hair. When you go beyond the physical, however, you’ll find that she enjoys different pursuits like video games, music, and culture. Her unique personality and outgoing nature has helped her make many different friends during her high school years.

Ever since elementary school, Bowyer has been known for wearing skirts, even by people who didn’t know her very well. Fellow senior Abby Byers remembered, “I thought it was strange that she wore them [skirts] even during P.E.” As she continued to wear them through middle school, and wears them still in high school, they have become what people expect from her. “She always seemed pretty proper and she is reasonably fancy in attire,” mused senior Jack Porter.

However, Bowyer is not defined simply by the clothes she wears. Did you know she loves all kinds of music, from dupstep to foreign?

Did you know she often plays video games on her computer and Xbox? Her clothes, or rather what she does with them, have nothing Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 23

to do with her personality. “I’m not a different person because of it,” she pointed out, “Just because I started wearing jewelry, or cut my hair doesn’t make me a better or worse person.”

Mrs. Gary, choir teacher and leader of several after school choir programs, said that Bowyer is “very mature and grounded. She appreciates culture and is always teaching herself a new language.”

Kelsey Hill, a senior at Bullitt East and close friend of Bowyer said that she also wants people to be able to look past what Bowyer wears and focus on the friendly girl inside them.

“She’s not just some girl that wears a skirt,” she said. “Everyone should get to know her.”

Gary said that working with Bowyer over the past four years has been “wonderful”. “I’ve seen Chasity evolve into a real section leader.

She’s always been good by herself, but now she’s become a leader of the alto# section.”

Gary describes Bowyer as “eclectic, talented, and… an enigma.”

As before mentioned, in her free time Bowyer likes to play video games. “Recently I got into gaming. I guess what sparked it was my sister got a free Xbox 360,” she said. Among her favorite games are Skyrim, Bioshock, Assassin’s Creed, and Amnesia, a puzzle game for the PC. After talking about this surprising hobby, she laughed and commented, “Oh gosh, that’s nerdy. But everyone needs a little nerd.”

Another one of Bowyer’s biggest interests is music. “I’m a music person,” she confided, “I’ve always been a music person.” This started in elementary school when she took piano lessons. The lessons stopped, but one instrument was quickly replaced with another. When band started in fifth grade she took up the flute. She played all the way until freshmen year and then switched to playing saxophone.

In her sophomore year, Bowyer dropped band and switched to choir where she’s been ever since. She’s also been a member of the after school Chamber Choral since freshman year.

One last passion that Bowyer has is for culture. She started talking to different people from around the world on Google+ Hangout online and realized how much appreciation she has for other countries and the people that live there. One aspect of culture that really fascinates her is the language. “Learning a language is actually a lot of fun,” she decided. This summer she started teaching herself Swedish and German and she’s now taking Spanish in school.

After she graduates, Bowyer is unsure of what exactly she wants to do. “I don’t know if I’m going to college. I don’t want to say I’m undecided, but I’ve got options.” She goes on to explain that she’d possibly like to take a year off before attending college and travel the world. She’s always wanted to go to Australia.

“That experience makes you eclectic, gives you life skills.”

In the end, Bowyer summarized, “I want to do something in life that makes me happy and pleases me so I don’t hate every day.”

HUMAN OPINION INTEREST 22 11/26/2012 8:25:12 AM

LENIENT When taming teens, lose the leash.

Loose parenting is more effective than strict parenting and should be practiced in a child’s home environment to provide the best results in their behavior.

Loose parenting positively influences children and gives them more opportunities to be

eSpain | y Jessica D

Article b independent and self-reliant. Stricter parents have more control over their kids but can also be overbearing compared to more relaxed parents. The style of parenting used in a home is important because it impacts how a child will parent in the future along with how they take care of themselves.

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Everyone has parents, and they’re all different.

However, when evaluating loose and strict parenting, it should be concluded that loose parenting is the better choice. Loose parenting could be considered many things, but to make a lengthy description pretty simple, more relaxed parents allow their children to rely more on themselves than their parents and are more likely to let their children do what they want to without hesitation. Most relationships between parents and children like this also contain more trust between the two. Calmer parenting shows children how to be more independent, creating self-confidence and a positive self-image.

In fact, Kaylie Bryant, Senior at Bullitt East, said that her parent’s strict style makes her more anxious to be on her own and have more freedom because it’s something she doesn’t experience often. Strict parenting may have positively impacted this decision, but it also alters her ability to do so in the future due to the lack of independence in past years.

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Emily Nalle

with them instead of being “scared” of their reaction. This forms a friendship that cannot be found in other people and a sense of security with your parent’s opinion. For example, freshman Morgan Lewis said “I would not change my parent’s style at all because I feel like I can go to my mom and tell her anything and everything without her judging me.” Looser parenting creates

Calmer parenting shows children how to be more independent.”

Less strict parenting is also shown to have a large effect on children’s relationship with their parents. Loose parenting gives kids more opportunities to be honest

APRIL 20112012 November NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 24

a bond between parents and children that can be disciplinary and friendship-like at the same time.

Parenting skills not only outline how children take care of themselves but also how they parent in the future. When asked about her parenting style, Mrs. Comstock said “I don’t consider it “strict”. I’m sure my children would disagree. I have rules that I want followed but I am lenient at times.”

In connection, she stated that her parents were strict in some areas and absent in others, and that it affected her parenting to some extent. After talking to local parents in the community, they said that they believed their parents had a large impact on their parenting style because they learned from them. Whether they parent exactly alike or complete opposite, they influenced the decisions they make as parents today.

From experience, I can say that my parent’s loose style has made me an independent, more mature person and created the stability in our relationship. The freedom they’ve given me has created a balanced need for leverage and self-discipline, and I plan to parent my children much like my mom and dad did me.

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 11/26/2012 8:25:37 AM

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STRICT

Snapbacks and tattoos, Snapbacks and tattoos, nice whips, fly chicks; none of that ‘cause parents rule.

Many students may not be showing off their hats or tats at Bullitt East due to strict parenting at home.

Strict parenting is more effective than relaxed parenting. Every Mom and Dad’s rules reflect their values and every restriction has a purpose. Strict parents don’t always make sneaky kids like many people believe.

From the student’s perspective, Mom and Dad may seem overbearing, but parents have a different outlook on the situation. “I believe I’m more protective and reasonable over strict, however, I’m sure my kids think I’m strict,” stated Denise Fryman, an ECE Teacher at Bullitt East. English teacher, Deshia Harris, also called herself a

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Parenting Styles: Which is Better?

kitchen table. “This way I know who she is talking to and what the conversation is about.

I believe that her bedroom is a private place and should stay that way,” explained Harris.

Another restriction is that she would not allow her children to get tattoos, “I believe that our body is a temple that God blessed us with. I think tattooing is defacing that. Once my children are grown, the choice would obviously be their own.”

Fryman also weighed in on the topic, “Tattoos are permanent and I feel if you are not 18 you are not ready to make that decision.” When rules are broken down, values and purpose arise and students can start to understand why their parents made the restriction to begin with.

Dad. “I mean, look how I turned out,” stated Reister.

If students want to express freedom, they can save their hats and tats until they’re an adult and mature enough to make their own decisions. Hopefully by then they’ll realize that most children are just that: children. They need guidance, and although adolescence is a step up from being a pre-teen or even a kid, it’s still not adulthood and doesn’t hold nearly as many responsibilities.

“Strict parents make sneaky and creative kids.” While this is

Strict parents don’t always make sneaky kids.”

“reasonable parent with strong Christian beliefs.” Some students may not understand the intent behind all the rules in his or her household, but should try to recognize that what their parents are enforcing has underlying meaning. Parenting is almost always based on ethics and moral values; rules are only helping to create a path for success, aide in future decision making, and essentially ensuring safety.

Some rules may seem strange or completely unnecessary; however, when elaborated upon, students may find some reason behind them. For example, one rule Harris has in her household is that her daughter is not allowed to use Skype from her bedroom, only at the

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a popular phrase, it’s not necessarily true. “It’s the kid’s decision,” stated Tate Hatfielda sophomore at East. Evan Reister, a senior, agreed with Hatfield saying “It depends on the kid.” If a child is raised being forced to make right decisions it starts to become a habit.

Many people even mirror the parenting they had growing up because that’s what has worked.

Hatfield and Reister said that they would parent the same way as their Mom and

HUMAN OPINION INTEREST 24 11/26/2012 8:25:58 AM

Emily Priddy KEES To Success

contact Emily- emily.priddy@stu.bullitt.kyschools.us

Does no money equal more money?

Students whose families make a higher yearly income are not eligible to receive a monetary bonus for passing their AP exams.

This program is unfair for students who are not on free or reduced lunch. To pass an AP exam, students must exert the same amount of effort so they should be rewarded equally. Students who are on free or reduced lunch already have more opportunities to receive scholarships than people who are not.

The Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) is a progressive scholarship funding program contingent upon a student’s academic success. Money is awarded in the following areas: GPA, ACT, and for some students, AP exam scores. To earn money for AP test scores, students must earn a qualifying test score (3 or higher), have earned at least a 2.5 GPA, and must purchase a school lunch at a free or reduced price. Senior, Marty Allgeier, who is a part of the free or reduced lunch program said, “It’s not fair and I think everyone should receive the same bonus for the same work.” This rule is unfair, unconstitutional, and illogical. Additional KEES money for a qualifying score on an AP exam should not solely be awarded to students who are eligible for free and reduced lunch.

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As of 2012, for an average household size of four, a family with an annual income of, at the most, $42,643 would receive reduced price meals. The median household income for Americans is $46,326. This means that the majority of Americans make over the reduced priced meal line and small minority is being benefited instead of the majority.That means any family with a larger income than said amount won’t receive monetary rewards for their student’s qualifying test scores.

back if you pay full price for the exam.

From the beginning of time America has been founded on a few basic principles. Chiefly among them is one of the most fundamental values: equality. This program is a counter to American society. The Constitution is based on equality; this AP exam program is unequal to all students who take AP exam. Our country was founded on the basic principle of equality, this new rule is discouraging this principle and encourages the better treatment of the lower class. Money should be based on students’ performance, not the parents. If one group of students is eligible for the additional KEES money, all of the students should be eligible.

Of course, the reason behind this prerequisite is to encourage students who can’t afford college to pursue a secondary education.

However, their opportunity for financial aid in college is abundant.

Students who aren’t on free or reduced lunch have a harder time receiving aid. If any student is going to be rewarded with additional KEES money, all students should be rewarded under the same basic criteria: the AP exam score. AP Exams require an extensive amount of study and effort to pass or score high on.

It’s not fair and I think everyone should receive the same bonus for the same work.

In conclusion, this program is unfair to students who are both accomplishing the same thing. Students should be rewarded based on their own accomplishments instead of the accomplishments of their parents.

Students work hard to achieve their goals and they should all receive the same award for the same work.

This reduction in lunch price and discounted registration fee on AP exams are the major incentives for students on financial aid to take the AP test. However, by providing these same students with the extra monetary rewards (KEES), in turn takes away from students with no extra motivation. Eight years ago every student who passed an AP exam received the bonus and was refunded their test fee. Budget cuts were made altering the program to only benefit free or reduced lunch students with their bonuses. “I am not the legislation, I did not make the rules,” stated counselor, Mrs. Terry.

Psychologically, students perform better when provided with extrinsic motivation. The only incentive for students who don’t qualify for the additional KEES money is the college credit. “It would be nice to have the extra money,” said senior, Dillon Sego. This is an intrinsic motivation, and the incentive is gone for students who aren’t on financial aid. This program will most likely decrease the number of test takers as the rewards are unfair and you may not receive your money

December APRIL April November 2012 20112011 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 26

What do you think about KEES money? Do you think that its fair? Let us know.

Send all letters to larry.steinmetz@bullitt. kyschools.us ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 11/26/2012 8:26:28 AM

Leah Byars

R-E-S-P-E-C-T Find Out What It Means To Me

Show me yours, I’ll show you mine.

contact Leah - leah.byars@stu.bullitt.kyschools.us

Ideally, respect is a two-way street in which people show respect in order to be treated respectfully in return.

Whether student or teacher, custodian or administration, everyone agrees that respect is needed to function on a day-to-day basis.

However, there seems to be mixed opinions about whether respect is prevalent in the Bullitt East hallways and classrooms. Treating everyone around you well and as you want to be treated needs to be a priority for all students, not just the considerate few.

Respect should be an easy concept to understand. “It’s treating others in a way you want to be treated,” explained senior, Abby Byers. “It sounds cliché and it is what we were taught since elementary school, but that’s it.”

According to Merriam Webster.com, respect is: “A high or special regard.” By its very definition, treating someone with respect would mean giving them attention when they talk, speaking well of them whether they’re there to hear it or not, and being kind whether or not you agree with everything they say and do. “Respect is a common courtesy you show to other people,” said Michelle Shockey, Instructional Assistant and everfamous hall monitor.

The respect level at Bullitt East can vary depending on who you talk to. According to some teachers, it seems to be higher; the kids treat each other and authority well.

However, according to the students immersed in the school society, respect is almost nonexistent.

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When it comes to the way students treat teachers, he added, “The teachers get a great deal more respect than other schools.”

That, however, is just the teacher’s point of view. They’re confined to their classroom and the students that frequent them. Students have an entirely different take on what they see going on in the hallways and in the classrooms.

From her experience, Byers asserted, “It really depends. Some people are nice, some just aren’t.” She goes on to specify, “Some people don’t realize there is a boundary they’re not supposed to cross. Respect differs for different people.” She explained that you can’t just interact with everyone the same way. You might be familiar with some people, like friends, and can get away with more. That doesn’t mean you can do the same thing with students and teachers you don’t know as well.

You don’t know how they will react to your jokes, your teasing, your prods. They may have stuff going on in their lives that you don’t know

NewsmagazineBEHSfall2012issue1.indd 27

As for how students treat teachers, Byers was much harsher in her declaration. “Teachers are treated like crap. Sure they play it off, but you can tell they’re offended and hurt by students that don’t listen.”

Junior Rachel Peak elaborated, recalling times in class when students would talk over teachers to the point that the teacher had to shout for the class to be quiet. Of course, when they yell, they’re regaled as a mean, bad person when all they were trying to do was regain order.

Both Byers and Peak agreed that teachers deserve to be shown respect because of their position. “They’re in charge of teaching future leaders of America,” emphasized Peak. “They [students] don’t realize how much pressure they’re [teachers] under; that deserves respect.”

“They’re doing it for their students,” added Byers, “They wouldn’t stick with the job if they didn’t like it.”

There’s no one way to ‘cure’ disrespect. There’s no magic word, no quick fix to change something that is largely attitude based. And it is attitude based. Treating others with respect also relies heavily on self-esteem. According to Mr. Fulghum, “They [people] don’t treat themselves very well, so they don’t know how to treat others.”

Some people don’t realize there is a boundary they’re not supposed to cross. Respect differs for different people.

Nate Fulghum, social studies teacher and cheer coach, reported that, “In comparison, we [Bullitt East students and teachers] respect each other. We’re more mature and more respectful to people.”

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about, and your words could trigger something unexpected. Part of respect, she said, is to realize where those boundaries are and to not cross them.

So what’s the best way to ensure that everyone knows how to treat themselves and others? Be the example. “As a school, as a body of students, administration, faculty, and staff, we need to lead by example...Most people who don’t respect others are followers, so it’s up to us to lead,” advised Shockey.

As for what example to set, Byers stressed that the most important thing for people to realize is “Everyone is human. Everyone has emotions, everyone has feelings, no matter how perfect they may seem.”

What do you think about respect at East? Does it exist? Let us know.

Send all letters to larry.steinmetz@bullitt. kyschools.us HUMAN OPINION INTEREST 26 28 11/26/2012 8:26:53 AM

Member

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11/26/2012 8:26:56 AM