Feb. 2014 Odyssey

Issue 05, Vol. 5 s February 2014 14000 Weckford Blvd., Houston, TX 77044

ODYSSEY Summer Creek High School

Junior finds new way to play sport he always loved. Page 12.

District realignment, and bump to 6A brings new challenges. Pages 8-9.

NEWS

Wheeler wins Teacher of the Year, trip to Europe Government and Debate teacher Britany Wheeler moves on to the district level competition for Teacher of the Year.

MADISON TERRIER CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As her students were preparing to take a test, Government and Debate teacher Britany Wheeler was surprised when the administration team entered her classroom with clappers and cowbells.

The announcement of the campus teacher of the year wasn’t supposed to take place until later in the week, and Wheeler wasn’t expecting to be chosen.

“On a scale of excitement from 1 to 10, I was a 12,” assistant principal Brett Crawford said. “No one deserves it more than she does. She is very well respected. She is the type of person that comes early and stays late. She’s able to relate to anyone.”

Wheeler said that the award was humbling and meant more because it came from her peers.

“I love the teachers at Summer Creek, and for them to nominate me just really feels good,” Wheeler said.

The process of selecting Teacher of the Year begins with teacher nominations.

The top six nominees are then voted on by the administration and teaching staff.

This year, science teacher Tara Bailey, Spanish teacher Carina Tavarez, math teacher Shawn Havranek, special ed teacher Linda Lindsey and English teacher Larry Humphrey were among the top six nominees.

After receiving campus Teacher of the Year, the competition for district Teacher of the Year immediately began.

“Everything is happening really quickly,” Wheeler said. “I have to write a two-page essay and submit a two-page resume by Feb. 14. We also have to attend a meeting to discuss all of the steps.”

The district chooses a Teacher of the Year after a round of interviews and application review on April 4. Last year,

Photo by Jazmyn Griffin

Government and Debate teacher Britany Wheeler holds the packet given to her by the principals when she was selected as Teacher of the Year for the 2014-15 school year. Administrative staff surprised her in sixth period by cheering as they walked into the classroom and passing out clappers to her students. History teacher Sam Pollard won the honor last year.

Summer Creek Teacher of the Year, Sam Pollard placed second in the district competition and won a trip to Hawaii.

Pollard was present in Wheeler’s classroom when she found out she had won.

He passed along some news of his own.

“Mr. Pollard had set aside one chaperone spot for their 15-day Europe trip to whoever was awarded Teacher of the Year,” Crawford said. “They’re going to London, Paris, Southern France, Barcelona and Madrid.”

Wheeler said as a history teacher she was ecstatic about the trip.

“The only place I’ve ever been is Mexico,” she said. “I don’t even have a passport. Again, we just have really great teachers here and it is so nice of them to take care of their own.”

While Wheeler was still in high school, both of her parents went back to college and became teachers. Her dad eventually became a principal. She said being able to tell them about her award was a big deal.

“My momma cried when I called her, and I got off the phone with my dad before he could start crying because I knew I would start crying, and I don’t cry in public,” she said. “It was so nice for them to see me kind of follow in their footsteps.”

Wheeler said her parents often joke with her about how hard she works and it was good to see her hard work pay off.

“Mrs. Wheeler would do anything for anyone,” Crawford said.

“She participates in food drives, she runs NHS and debate, and she helps with UIL. She’s very versatile.”

Junior prepares to attend Texas Music Educators Associations

Joe Guy, ‘15, earned the prestigious honor of singing in the All-State choir. After four auditions, and making it past the Area competition, Guy will sing with 12 other students at the TMEA (Texas Music Educators Association) conference on Feb. 15.

“It took a lot of hard work,” Guy said. “I mean, I probably only went to lunch for the first two weeks of school so I could practice.”

Guy spends most of his time practicing. If he isn’t doing work for school, he is singing. He’s been so committed, that he even sings in some of his classes when there is free time.

Guy takes voices lessons and also gets pointers from choir teacher Amanda Robison. From the whole experience, he has learned lessons in his life that he plans on using for other experiences.

“I’ve learned if you really want something, go for it,” Guy said, “Also it has taught me that I can only do so much and to leave some things in God’s hands.”

Guy is already looking forward to next year. He said more students from the choir department will advance to State, because there are so many talented singers. He advised it just takes practice and persistence and the love for singing.

“Competition is hard,” Guy said. “You can do everything perfect. You just have to make sure the judges choose you.”

- Jordan Mobley

Three band students make history, will perform with the state band

Leading the count for the district, SCHS band students made history on Jan. 11 as three members made the All-State Band.

Nelson Armstrong, ‘16, Daniel Glasscock, ‘14, and Michael Hernandez, ‘14, will play in the All-State Band Feb. 12-15 in San Antonio.

The students went through a Region and Area audition before playing for a spot in the State ensemble.

“I did not know I was going to make the All-State band,” Glasscock said, “I joined the process because I have done it all four years.”

This is Hernandez’s fourth trip to State. Armstrong and Glasscock will make their first appearance.

“It took a lot of practice and perfection along with private lessons, master classes and mock auditions to perform the etudes at its highest level possible under pressure,” said Hernandez.

- Carlos Martinez

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NEWS

Prom planning in full swing with start of the new year Prom has been revamped with an all-new venue. Students will head downtown to the Houston Medical Center for the senior event.

however, it was changed to early April to avoid conflicts with busy senior schedules. Although it gives students less time to prepare for prom, it makes the event much closer and the anticipation much higher. The venue has also been changed GERSON VILCHIS from last year’s location to the HornbergSTAFF REPORTER er, which is located in the Houston MediAs seniors continue to prepare for colcal Center. lege and graduation, many students also “It is a classic Hollywood glamour theme begin looking forward to prom. The unbased off of the red carpets,” senior class forgettable senior president Spencer Jones, experience, has ‘14, said. “It’s to focus on a new venue and the seniors for getting revamped theme “It is a classic past these four years.” that sponsors hope The new theme will Hollywood glamour ensure the Class of feature a vintage 1900s 2014 has the best theme based off Hollywood theme that prom to date. will incorporate mainly of the red carpets. ” Prom will be held black and white with - senior class president April 5 at the Horntouches of red and silSpencer Jones, ‘14 berger Conference ver. Beginning at 8:30 Center, starting at p.m., prom will kick-off 8:30 p.m. Tickets in style with music, finare $80 until Feb. 14. They will then inger foods and the craze of the downtown crease to $90 until Feb. 28 and $100 until Houston feel. However, there will be no April 4. dinner served since the majority of stu“Last year, May was extremely overdents go to dinner before prom. Instead, whelming with all of the AP testing and there will be a table filled with finger graduation all within a 25-day period so foods, such as crab cakes. we moved it up to April,” senior sponsor “Prom is as much fun as you want it to and social studies teacher Hayle Hueske be,” Hueske said. “It’s going to be nice and said. it’s going to be special. It’ll be a blast for Prom was slated for later in the year, the kids.”

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Hipsterism takes another spin Rise in hipsterism in pop culture causes teens to stray from true individuality.

CLOSER LOOK

Jared Jones, senior

JAZMYN GRIFFIN SCHSTODAY.COM EDITOR

Flannel shirts, indie bands, nerd glasses, counterculture and anything “artsy” is what typically comes to mind when someone describes a hipster - but that way of thinking has changed. All of a sudden, hipsterism has taken a turn from those who don’t fit the social norm and take on the world with open minds to teenagers following the trends they see their favorite celebrities wearing.

The styles that used to be considered unique have become basic. Pop culture influences and even the popular website tumblr have made hipsterism a trend that teens can’t seem to stay away from.

Dressing in certain clothes and listening to certain music doesn’t make you a bad person, after all it is the popular style of clothing, until you drop the “h” bomb. Left and right people talk about their distaste for anything in Top 40 pop because too many people listen to it or shun Forever 21 shoppers because everyone goes there. Wannabe hipsters purposely stray from the norm not because it doesn’t interest them, but because it’s too common in others.

“A hipster is someone who tries to get on trends before they’re popular,” Jared Jones, ‘14, said. “If you just wear clear glasses and infinity scarves stacked on top of each other, you aren’t really hipster.”

Hipsterism encompasses more than just what you wear and what music you pretend to listen to. It’s a lifestyle that comes out of not being able to fit into a certain category and instead being a true unique individual. Those who actually match that description should continue their ways, and those who only see it as a trend should move on to the next one.

Be yourself instead of seeking to fit in to what everyone else is doing.

Hobbies: “Art and anything to do with a computer.”

Favorite Artists: Weezer, Smashmouth, Childish Gambino and many more Best Concert: Free Press Summer Festival 2013. “There were lots of bands that I liked there, but it’s hard to beat the finale when Bass Nectar finished it. With the rise of hipsters everybody is going now.”

Restaurant: The Downhouse on Yale Street downtown, but “I like trying new places.”

What makes you unique? “I like to wear stuff that no one else is wearing, I think it makes me an individual.”

People see you as a hipster, are you? “No. A hipster would never call themselves a hipster... I guess that makes me one.”

Opinion on rise in hipsterism: “Trends never hurt anybody, but it’s not as severe as people think. It’s kind of a mild lifestyle. If you’re looking for the real hipsters go to Austin, they’re all going to be at Austin City Limits.”

Taylor Simons, senior Hobbies: Playing soccer and hanging out with friends Favorite Artists: G-Eazy, The 1975, Coldplay Best Concert: “Matt and Kim at Free Press last year. They were so energetic and exuberant - they were just excited about their music.”

Restaurant: “Ruggles Cafe Downtown. They have pasta, soups, sandwiches and lots of desserts.”

What makes you unique: “I’m interested in philosophy, religion, and gender roles in society - that’s going to be my minor in college.”

People see you as a hipster, are you? “I don’t think so, I’m just more up front with what I believe in. I’m going to wear what I want to wear and say what I want to say, and most people don’t.”

Opinion on rise in hipsterism: “It’s just how society is. If someone sees something different they latch on to it. Everyone wants to be different but they conform to the same idea of different.”

Photo by Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times/MCT

Austin-native Matthew McMonaughey accepts the Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role award on stage at the 20th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on Jan. 18. He is the favorite to win the Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in Dallas Buyers Club. It’s his first Oscar nomination.

Oscar buzz surrounds must-see movies JAZMYN GRIFFIN SCHSTODAY.COM EDITOR

Every awards season teens and adults gather around the television to watch their favorite musicians, actresses and directors win for remarkable movies, television showsand albums. The most - anticipated this year is the 86th annual Academy Awards on March 2, commonly referenced as the Oscars.

As the awards show grows near, there are a few must-see movies that are rereleased in our local theaters that will have you laughing, crying and asking the question “Will Leonardo DiCaprio finally win an Oscar?”

The Wolf of Wall Street (R) - One of the most discussed movies of the year, Wolf of Wall Street chronicles the life of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, who used corruption and lies to achieve success on the famous Wall Street.

12 Years a Slave (R)- The breakout movie for many previously unknown actors, 12 Years a Slave tells the story of Soloman Northup, who is kidnapped and taken from his freedom and made a slave in Louisiana. It is based on the

actual heartbreaking memoir by a slave in the 1800’s.

Dallas Buyers Club (R)-With a cast starring Jennifer Garner as a doctor and singer Jared Leto as a flamboyant LGBT character, Dallas Buyers Club plays out the life of a cowboy in Texas (Matthew McConaughey) who contracts HIV and is given a 30 - day window before inevitable death. He fights to save his life with alternative and illegal medicine with the help of an unlikely group of friends.

Frozen (G) - Sisters Anna and Elsa must find a way to save their kingdom through love after Elsa unleashes her power to freeze and creates an eternal winter in Arendelle.

The story goes through Elsa’s acceptance of herself, Anna’s love interests and the misadventures that occur on the way to bring back summer.

Captain Phillips (PG-13) - Starring Tom Hanks, Captain Phillips describes the experience of Richard Phillips after he is captured hostage by a Somali pirate crew hundreds of miles off shore and his struggle to survive and escape.

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FEATURES

Junior refocuses goals after delivering twins At age 14, Diaz-Pushia found out she was pregnant with twins. She moved home, enrolled in school and made new goals for her life.

CARLOS MARTINEZ STAFF REPORTER

Emely Diaz-Pushia, ‘15, reconstructed her life after receiving a double dose of unexpected news when she was just 14 years old.

“My babies are a blessing because they changed my whole perspective on life,” Diaz said.

Before the pregnancy, Diaz had neither plans nor goals to achieve so she decided to drop out of school. She left home to move in with her sister in Pasadena, Texas.

“My early teen years were really free, I could do anything I wanted,” said Diaz. “I think if I wouldn’t have had (my boys), I wouldn’t care about anything but myself.

But now that they’re here, I thank God. I have planned a lot of things for our future.”

In March 2010, her view on life changed when Diaz found out she was three months pregnant. It was difficult enough for Diaz being a pregnant teenager. It became even more difficult when she hit her seven month mark in her pregnancy, and the doctor announced she was not only pregnant with one but two boys.

“I was excited, sad, a whole bunch of mixed emotions,” said Diaz.

With her twins being her priority, Diaz began making major changes. The boys were born Aug. 21, 2010, and she moved Photos taken by Dominique Thomas back home with her family. A few weeks Emely Diaz-Pushia poses with her two boys, Jonathan and Joshua, on the football field after a January JV 0soccer game. The boys later, she started her freshman year at stood on the sidelines and cheered on their mother as she played.

Summer Creek. Diaz wanted to return to school to receive her education not only “We would like very much for Emely the coaches when she made the JV team for herself but for her two newborn bato graduate Summer Creek High School and was elected team captain for the bies as well. and go on to college,” 2013-14 school year.

“I want to make said Emely’s mom Mary “She’s motivated, that’s what I like about their future easier,” Jane Pushia. “It would her,” said JV coach Frankline Owino. said Diaz. “I want be the best thing she “She tries hard and sets an example even them to see me as could possibly do for outside the field.” their role model.” her children.”

Her family became Diaz’s support sysDiaz has been As an involved high tem, helping her take care of her babies dedicated to her school student, Diaz when she’s not home. Pushia is a surgischool work since enjoys playing soccer cal assistant for an oral surgeon, and her her freshman year. for the school and is on brothers own a family business. They all Now she is a junior the JV team. Diaz’s twin work together to provide for Diaz and and is working hard boys Joshua and Jonaher babies with their daily needs. During to keep her grades than attend her games the day, the toddlers attend day care. At up so she is able when they are able to. night when Diaz has soccer, Pushia eito be accepted to a Diaz’s boys sit in the ther brings them to watch the games or good college. After - Emely Diaz-Pushia, ‘15, stands as they watch baby sits.

Diaz graduates cola mother of twin boys their mom play soccer, “I would like to think that we provided lege, she plans to a sport she has loved her with a second chance,” said Pushia. go into the medical since she was young.

As a teen mom, Diaz has accepted the field and become a Her dedication and effort was noticed by fact she can no longer be a typical teengynecologist.

“I want to make their future easier. I want them to see me as their role model.”

Joshua gives his mom Emely Diaz-Pushia, ‘15, a kiss and a hug after her JV soccer game. The boys go to day care during the day when their mom is at school.

Jonathan cuddles up with his mom Emely Diaz-Pushia, ‘15, as she cradles him in her arms as he shows her his toy car.

ager.

“It’s not always easy, but setting goals and trying to achieve them would be the best for you and your child,” said Diaz.

“Never give up and just remember that things happen for a reason, and God has a plan for you.”

Although it was not her plan, Diaz has learned how to manage having twin boys and being a single mom. By having her twins, she has refocused and is determined to achieve her goals.

It’s not a path Pushia said she would wish upon teens, but she is dedicated to helping Diaz make it all work.

“It’s OK to wait, I wouldn’t be in such a hurry to grow up,” Pushia said. “You have your whole life to be an adult, but you only have a few years to be a child. Take advantage of the love and support from the ones that love you.”

FEBRUARY 2014

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FEATURE

Outside influences prevent students from reading outside class

Librarians work to increase the number of students reading for pleasure by implementing a new incentive program.

SEAN PERRY STAFF REPORTER

Almost every student has some sort of textbook or assigned reading for a class, but reading for pleasure has slipped through the cracks. Between school, clubs, sports and other extracurricular activities, reading has become something that many students are only willing to do when required. “[Young people] don’t really read a lot anymore,” said Cody Easter, ‘15. “Either they don’t have the time because of everything they’re doing or they’re just too lazy to read.”

Many students who were once avid readers now have been forced to push it aside for lack of time and energy due to an excess of other activities.

“I read a lot when I was younger, but now I’m not able to as much because I’m just too busy with school and volleyball,” said Kristen Argueta, ‘16. “I wish I could because I really enjoy it.”

Besides the lack of time available, another reason why many people aren’t reading as much may be the explosion in social media

and technology in recent years. Things like courage extracurricular reading. A new Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, and a reading incentive program “SCHS Students plethora of TV shows and movies available Read for Fun” has been set into motion. It is at the touch of a button has made reading all about choice. seem like more of a chore than a fun pasTo participate, students must choose a time. book to read that is not required for any “People have other ways of their classes, commit to be entertained now,” said to finishing the book and “I think [reading] Easter. “It’s a lot easier to write a review of the is a personal choice, then watch TV for half an hour book for the online Desthan it is to read a book for but it definitely helps tiny catalogue. After that is a week.” done, they are entered for a you expand your Even though many stuchance at the monthly prize. knowledge, and dents have lost interest in “I hope that kids will take a reading outside of school, minute to come in and parpeople should there are numerous books ticipate if they’re interested,” be more and series which have besaid Lankau. “Reading for open-minded come extremely popular pleasure can not only help in recent years. Prime exyou be a better student, it’s about it.” amples are the acclaimed - Kristen Argueta, ‘16 also just a lot of fun.” books of Suzanne Collins’ Despite being too busy The Hunger Games, Veto find the time, or simply ronica Roth’s Divergent or John Green’s The having lost the interest, there are still many Fault in Our Stars, which have had a surge students who find solace and entertainment in popularity due in part to their past and in reading. upcoming movie counterparts.

“I think that reading helps people see into “They become a topic of conversation a world that’s different from their own,” said among my friends,” said Argueta. “The Argueta, “I think it’s a personal choice, but it movies have made everyone want to read definitely helps you expand your knowledge, the books.” and people should be more open-minded Librarians Louise Lankau and Donna about it.”

Smalley have worked on ways to help en-

Staff’s Picks

“I highly recommend reading Divergent. It’s entertaining and there’s not one slow moment in the whole book. If you like The Hunger Games, then you’ll like Divergent.”

- Mackenzie Harper, ‘16 “My favorite book would have to be The Shack by William P. Young. It makes me think outside of the things I normally talk about. It blew my mind!”

-Victoria Valentine, ‘14 “The best book ever is Looking For Alaska by John Green. It really takes you on an emotional roller coaster.”

-Jazmyn Griffin, ‘14

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DISTRICT

Meet the teams in District 16-6A Oak Ridge

School population: 3,440 students Mascot: War Eagle Distance from Summer Creek: 30.2 miles Football Record: 7-4 (3-3 in district)

Kingwood School population: 2,586 students Mascot: Mustang Distance from Summer Creek: 12.3 miles Football Record: 7-4 (5-3 in district)

The Woodlands School population: 4,146.5 students Mascot: Highlander Distance from Summer Creek: 34.1 miles Football Record: 10-3 (6-0 in district)

Atascocita School population: 3,198.5 students Mascot: Eagle Distance from Summer Creek: 6.5 miles Football Record: 10-2 (7-1 in district)

Conroe School population: 3,370 students Mascot: Tiger Distance from Summer Creek: 40.7 miles Football Record: 4-6 (1-5 in district)

College Park School population: 2,725 students Mascot: Cavaliers Distance from Summer Creek: 33 miles Football Record: 5-5 (2-4 in district)

Joining the big dogs

With the release of the district opponents Monday, the school is preparing to compete for the first time as a 6A division program in the fall. Enrollment numbers exceeded 2,300 students this year, catapulting the school into the highest division of high school competition.

New classification leads to new opponents, challenges MADISON TERRIER CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

On Feb. 3 the official district realignment list was released at 9 a.m. After hearing the news that Summer Creek would now be classified as a 6A school, there was much anticipation leading up to the meeting that would reveal its future opponents.

“I wasn’t shocked,” basketball coach Ricky Mourning said of the new district.

“I had heard rumors that we would go with the Conroe District. However, I was surprised that it’s only a seven-team district.”

Summer Creek will now be participating in 6-A District 16 with Atascocita, Kingwood, Conroe, Oak Ridge, The Woodlands and College Park High School.

“The Woodlands has had a tremendous record over the years,” said campus athletic director Brian Ford. “They are probably the king of the hill and our biggest opponent.”

During the month of October, schools were required to submit their numbers of enrollment for the biannual competition classifications. With 2,300 students, Summer Creek will now compete in the new 6A classification for the schools with 2100 students or more.

“I was hoping to have a big 6A and little 6A,” principal Thyrun Hurst said. “That subdivision would’ve provided us with those first years. Being thrown in with

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FEBRUARY 2014

those huge teams is like jumping from high school to college.”

The school is not really jumping up two classifications. simply the old 5A renamed.

For small schools without enough members to comprise a football team, there previously was an unclassified “6-man football.” State officials decided to give these “6-man football” teams the title of a 1A division team. With this decision, each classification shifted up to the next class level. There were rumors that a new class would be established for the mega schools in the state of Texas, however, that did not happen. 6A will still encompass schools with 2,100 to over 6,000 students.

“That’s what is confusing everyone,” Ford said. “A lot of people think we are moving up two classifications, but in reality we are only moving up one. The cut off is the same as 5A was last year, so really 6A is just a name.”

Along with a higher classification comes a different set of opponents. For sports, fine arts, and academics, the rivalries and teams in district play are about to change.

“I am nervous about the different level of competition,” football player Shedrick Taylor, ‘15, said. “6A is considered the big boys and since we have been doing really well, there will be a lot of targets on our backs.”

Ford said the staff knew all along that enrollment numbers would eventually send the school into the next classification.

“Most of our programs have mixed in 5A competition in our non-district games so it wouldn’t be such a shock to our systems,” he said.

Mourning said this season he scheduled basketball games around the expected opponents.

“Our kids beat College Park at their place, and lost a close game to The Woodlands in the last 30 seconds of the game,” Mourning said. “We know we can play with these schools, it’s just a matter of going out and executing.”

Returning football player De’Unte Chatman, ‘15, said he was preparing himself by putting in extra work and getting back in “the football mindset.”

“Nothing has changed, we still want to be district champions, no matter what class we are in. We still have that one goal, and it’s to win state,” he said.

Even though the difficulty for all areas of district competition is expected to increase, Hurst is confident success can still be found next year.

“We could experience some long seasons next year and some failure, but failure is OK as long as we are able to learn and grow from it, “ he said. “ If that happens you can rest assured, the staff and student body will find our strength in other areas.

I’m confident that the students and staff will do a good job. We are ready to compete, just waiting.”

Fine Arts programs ready to move up CONNOR BLACK STAFF REPORTER

When the student body heard SCHS was moving up to 6A from 4A, everyone’s first concerns were likely about sports.

But, in reality, the fine arts programs are also impacted by the change.

As daunting as the change may seem, many of the fine arts programs, such as theater, choir and orchestra, have accepted the challenge with open arms by already preparing.

“Right now we have to play off the grade 4 list, but next year, we will have to perform one piece off of the grade five list which makes us nervous, because it’s more difficult,” said orchestra instructor Timothy Mika. “In our UIL competition, we don’t have a contest against another school, we compete against ourselves, we compete against a standard.

“I just handed out yesterday some technical exercises that are the hardest they’ve ever seen. And so those kind of preparations we can do…”

The choir, who won two sweepstakes trophies last year at UIL, also has to cope with rise in the difficulty of their material.

Choir instructor Amanda Robison is confident in her choir’s ability to transition into 6A. “I really do have strong juniors, which is awesome because I get to keep them next year,” Robison said.

It’s not just the sophomores and juniors that are going to help in the transition for all the fine arts department, but also the freshmen and new members of the programs.

Past academic MICHELLE GARCIA STAFF REPORTER

With the new district realignment ahead, UIL Academics is preparing to compete against bigger schools.

The new district involves students competing against schools like Kingwood and Atascocita leaving behind Humble and Kingwood Park.

“I think it will make our program stronger,” interim associate principal Brett Crawford said. “It is going to be good for us because we are going to be facing stiffer competition.”

There are 22 subjects that students compete in at UIL, ranging from Edito-

REALIGNMENT

6A provides stiffer competition DANIELLE MILLER SPORTS EDITOR

Photo by Dominique Thomas A group of trumpet players participate in a halftime performance during the football season. The band had its best outing in UIL this year and will jump to 6A in one of the strongest districts in the state.

“We just keep getting better every year, the level rises and we increase our enrollment every year, by about 20 or 25 kids each year,” said Mika.

Robison also is enjoying the benefits of having an increased amount of students and freshmen.

“I’ve got a great group of men in my men’s choir this year that are a lot of freshmen, but [also] some kids that are just new to choir, that are super talented that I’m really excited to bring them up to the varsity choir,” said Robison.

Michael Holt, the band instructor, also said his students will be ready for next year’s competitive season and thinks some of the competitions won’t change at all.

“As a 4A school, we are already playing

the grade level literature [that we will be required to play next year],” said Holt. “I think at the region level the competition is exactly the same. There will be more good bands at the state competition.”

Because faculty expected this change to happen at some point due to the growth of the student population, this change will be met without frustration or too much anxiety “That’s how life is, any time you have a challenge, all you can do is prepare the best you can and sometimes it makes life interesting. Challenges are always a good thing too. At the end of the day, you do the best you can do and that’s all you can do,” said Robison.

After being open for five years, Summer Creek is stepping out of the kiddie pool and jumping into the new 6A classification.

“Going into the new classification with Atascocita and Kingwood there will no longer be anymore wondering about who is the best in Humble ISD,” track coach Shelton Ervin said.

In the upcoming year, the Bulldogs will be in District 16-6A with Atascocita and Kingwood as well as The Woodlands, Oak Ridge, Conroe and College Park.

“I’m not surprised, but more excited because we get to play tougher competition, and that allows us to get to see where we are as a football team,” offensive guard Shedrick Taylor, ‘15, said.

Though the jump in classification may scare some, the wrestling team has had experience with their newly rezoned competition.

Two years ago, there was no classification for wrestling so they were often paired against the newest 6A rivals.

“6A won’t be new to us,” wrestling coach Scott Howard said. “There’s so much pre-anxiety and we are lucky because we won’t have that.”

Other coaches have been preparing as well by playing against opponents they will eventually be facing.

“We are really going to change our preseason schedule this year to add in some of the bigger schools,” baseball coach Paul Hinson said. “We want to make the playoffs and be competitive.

That’s where we belong, and we want to prove that we can play at the next level.”

Next year will be a transition season overall.

A larger classification increases exposure for athletes. Most recruiters will be at the games because colleges want to see bigger high schools.

“We have to put in the extra work,” running back De’Unte Chatman, ‘15, said. “Coming and staying after school, working out on the weekends and getting back into the mindset.

I’m very excited about what our team is going

Photo by Shaianne Rubin Paul Thomas, ‘15, goes to score in their game against Crosby. The boys basketball team hopes to make a run in the playoffs during their final few months as a 4A program.

to do we just have to have confidence.”

The football team has already scheduled their pre-season games for next year and will be playing some tough schools in order to be prepared for the new rivals they will be playing in 6-A. The four non-district games will be against all playoff teams from 2013: Pasadena Memorial, Dickinson, Beaumont Central and Spring Branch Memorial.

“Since we have shown what we can do in 4-A, people are already talking about us,” football coach Brian Ford said. “Once you win it is harder for you to schedule easier teams to play.

This will give us the opportunity to play teams who have already done great things and show what we can do. I feel confident.”

Being at the highest classification in the largest state, the change will not be easy. The players and coaches welcome the challenge though.

“I think that it speaks volumes [moving to 6A classification],” boys basketball coach Ricky Mourning said. “We have reached greater competition levels than ever before. It shows how far we have come and how we’re growing as a school.”

success provides comfort during jump to new classification rial Writing editor to Debate.

Madison According Terrier, ‘14, to Debate went on to teacher become the Britany first-ever Summer Wheeler, adding Creek student to Congress reach State to the list of subjects is by qualifyunder coning in News UIL Journalism team members Michelle Garcia, ‘14, Regine Murray, ‘15, Jazmyn Griffin, and Feature sideration.

The school ‘14, and Madison Terrier, ‘14, look over UIL materials to prepare for spring competition. Writing. saw success last year as the journalism “I think we will be inspired to work team won the district title. Odyssey harder since we will be competing against

bigger schools,” Tyler Granato ‘15, said.

Despite the school competing against large schools, practice hours do not plan to change.

“There is no necessary preparation,” Crawford said. “UIL Academics is mainly individual efforts. They need to focus on themselves because their work affects them. They just need to prepare a little more because of the bigger competition.”

According to Granato, the realignment will allow more competition in the district and he said he feels the team as a whole is prepared.

“It depends on how much work they put into it,” Wheeler said. “It does not

deal with people’s intelligence, [it’s more about] their skill.”

Not many students who are competing know about the realignment. However, getting word of the news has motivated them to work harder.

“At first they were scared,” Wheeler said.

“There was a different variety [of reactions] between the debaters.”

The next competition for most UIL competitors will be Feb. 22.

“Students will probably work harder to do well,” Wheeler said. “It is now our chance to step up and represent Summer Creek.”

FEBRUARY 2014

9

SPORTS

Draft in sight for Johnson

Quarterback prepares for future at UCLA JAZMYN GRIFFIN SCHSTODAY.COM EDITOR

VICTORIA VALENTINE STAFF REPORTER

With professional scouts already coming to visit Torrey Johnson, ‘14, during baseball practice, he is now considering going straight into pro baseball rather than attend a junior college or a four-year university after high school.

“I’m leaning more towards going pro because if I go to a junior college first I’d have to stay for a whole year before I can get drafted,” said Johnson. “If I go to a regular fouryear university I have to stay there at least three years and then I can get drafted.”

Johnson said that if he does go to college he would most likely attend San Jacinto Junior College.

Although he prefers to play ball professionally, his second option would be to enroll in a junior college where he would have to wait only a year until he would be draft eligible.

On Jan. 14, the Atlanta Braves visited the school to watch Johnson practice. The Pittsburgh Pirates also visited the campus Jan. 22.

“Johnson needs to work on translating raw tools and overall baseball skills,” said Pittsburgh Pirates

Photo by Olivia Gonzalez

Torrey Johnson, ‘14, has a number of options ahead of him as he pursues baseball after high school. Those options include going to college or going straight to the minor leagues if he is drafted in July.

scout Trevor Haley. “He is a very good player, has good bat speed and is a good runner.”

It marks the first time a scout had visited any player in the program.

Johnson is eligible to be drafted in the first-year player draft in midJune.

High school seniors may be selected and signed to a minor league contract. Baseball’s draft has 40 rounds as well as compensatory picks. High school seniors, junior college players and college juniors and seniors are eligible.

“This is also huge exposure for the rest of the team and it proves to them that someone who comes from where they come from has the ability to be drafted,” said coach Paul Hinson. “Summer Creek is also being put on the map and colleges know that a lot of good players come out of our school.”

Johnson exhibits tremendous

athletic ability not only in baseball but in football as well. He finished last season with 997 receiving yards.

“Two sport athletes are fairly regular and becoming less frequent,” said Haley. “Having 997 receiving yards says that Johnson is a good athlete and has good body awareness.”

Johnson has been dedicated to playing baseball and it shows.

Over the years, Johnson has been working hard and now it is all starting to pay off.

“In baseball there is this thing called the five-tool system that makes you an outstanding position player,” Hinson said. “You have to be able to hit for average, hit with power, be fast, be good at playing defense and have good aim. And for pitchers you need to be able to hit 90 miles per hour.”

Johnson said he plans to pursue baseball after he graduates high

school because he is more comfortable with that sport, and he said the income is greater than that of football.

Colleges talking with him include the University of Houston, Illinois State, Northwestern Ohio, Galveston College, Penn State and Arkansas. If Johnson is drafted, he will have to make a decision by July if he will go to the minors or play in college.

“I always told myself that if I get drafted it would be late in the rounds,” said Johnson.

This is only the beginning for Johnson. He does not know what the future holds for him but he is more than anxious to find out.

“I’m most looking forward to the feeling and the excitement of it all, but I try not to think about it that much so I won’t get nervous,” Johnson. * Hannah Louviere contributed to this story.

Lung surgeries allow Myron’s return to the pitch YAZMIN LOPEZ STAFF REPORTER

At first, the family had no idea what was ahead. At just 15, Scott Myron was diagnosed with a collapsed lung, also called Pneumothorax.

“I didn’t know what it was,” Myron said “After they had told me that it was a hole in my lung, I was kind of nervous. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to run or play soccer.”

Pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lungs and the chest wall. It makes the lungs collapse.

“The only cure for Pneumothorax is to staple the hole closed,” Myron’s mom Carol Myron said.

After the diagnosis, surgeries soon followed.

Scott had the first surgery in August 2012. In January 2013, he had the second.

“My main concern was that Scott wouldn’t fully recover after the surgery,

10

FEBRUARY 2014

and he wouldn’t be able to get into sports again,” Carol Myron said.

After surgery, Myron had to recover and sports were out of the question. It was hard for him to adjust watching from the stands.

“At first I was very disappointed,” Scott said. “I couldn’t be on the field with the guys and play the game. But now I’m more confident about this season because my health has gotten much better.”

When the doctors finally cleared him to run cross country in the fall and soccer this spring, Scott was thrilled. His family was just as happy.

“We were disappointed when Scott could not play soccer last year,” Carol Myron said.

“Our main concern was his health. But we were delighted that Scott made the team this year. We didn’t think he would make varsity or even get his fitness back right after the surgery. We were so please.”

Myron made varsity and is doing well on a team that is 4-4-2.

“My expectation of Scott is to put pressure on the defense whenever he is in the game,” said varsity coach Ramiro Cantu. “He plays forward, so it’s very important for him to do that and open up the field for our midfielders.

Scott’s health has gotten better as time has passed. He spends more time worrying about earning a playoff berth now.

“My health has gotten better, but it will get more better with time.” Scott said. “Now, my goal for this season would be making it to playoffs.”

Just a month before signing day, Aaron Sharp, ‘14, decommitted from Kansas State and prepared to sign a letter of intent to play football at UCLA. After visiting the UCLA campus and meeting members of the team on a trip Jan. 17-20, Sharp made his final decision.

Players can change their mind on verbal commitments until they sign their official letter of intent.

During his visit to UCLA, coaches and current football players acted as tour guides, showing him the dorms and campus. They also showed him around town and spent down time bonding.

Eldridge Massington, a wide receiver for the Bruins and fellow Texan, hosted Sharp for the weekend.

“I was shocked that they all treat each other like family,” Sharp said. “The head coach takes care of his business but the players can still come and go into his office.”

Sharp will redshirt his first year since UCLA’s starting quarterback is returning. As a redshirt, he’ll condition, develop skills, and have time to adapt to the college football system.

“It’s a blessing to know that you’re able to do what you love at the next level and know for sure what you’re going to do,” Sharp said.

He’ll also be able to visit his friends and relatives in Texas as UCLA plays the University of Texas for an non-conference game in 2014.

Coach Brian Ford said he supports Sharp’s decision.

“Aaron selected UCLA because he thought it was the best fit for him academically and athletically,” Ford said. “Aaron enjoyed a great career at Summer Creek, his talent and hard work put him in a position to be offered scholarships.”

Sharp said he feels the new choice will give him his best opportunity to continue growing.

“The campus is beautiful and the academics are way better [than Kansas State],” Sharp said.

“What UCLA had to offer better fit my ability.”

SPORTS

Boys hope strong regular season carries into playoffs After two years of reaching the playoffs the boys basketball team is looking for its third and best postseason performance.

JENNA DUVALL CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Following the first moments of a dribbled ball across the court and cheers from an enthusiastic crowd, the team won their first game of the 15-4 season. All season they’ve been in contention for the district title and playoff hopes are high.

“I’ve had high expectations for the team for the past two years,” coach Ricky Mourning said. “The team has worked hard and grown as a program for four years to get to this point.”

Since opening in 2009, the varsity basketball program has advanced to the district tournament two years in a row.

The team’s goal of reaching State has stayed the same over the years, but this year the boys have chased their goal with greater determination than before.

“Before this year, the team had a difficult start,” Mourning said. “They have shown up and put in work. They’ve gotten out of the season the hard work that each of them have put in.”

The team’s success began in the gym before the season started.

Workouts and the motto “We’re a family” has contributed to the team’s togetherness, along with team building exercises and team practices. Most players participated in summer leagues and all spent countless hours in the weight room.

“I worked out all summer starting to get ready for the season,” Darius Reed, ‘14, said. “Our workouts together helped us grow as a team. We practice as hard as we can.”

After starting the season with eight consecutive district wins, they suffered their first lost to New Caney on Jan. 13.

“As long as we don’t get too conceited with our previous eight wins, we have a good chance of going to districts,” Traylon Matthews, ‘15, said. “We’re a lot closer than the past teams, and that’s helped us reach our success.”

With two playoff appearances behind them, the team has created a name for itself at the district and regional levels.

“We’ve made it on the map,” Mourning said. “Everyone wants to beat Summer Creek.”

Photo by Shaianne Rubin

Cameron Wilson, ‘14, dribbles the ball against Crosby during a 72-49. Wilson has contributed 11.7 points per game this season so far to the team.

Isaiah Bean, ‘16, waits for his turn to sub in right before a win over C.E. King on Jan. 17. The Bulldogs won 48-36.

Photo by Briana Johnson

Tyler Howard, ‘15, makes a free throw after being fouled by a New Caney player. Howard is one of the key players this year when it comes to scoring points, averaging 16 points per game.

Photo by Briana Johnson

Crockett shoots for success Krishawn Crockett, ‘14, is ready to lead the girls basketball team further than the second round of play-offs with her experience on the court.

KIERRA NORRIS STAFF REPORTER

Photo By Shaianne Rubin

Krishawn Crockett, ‘14, has been a leader on a the girls’ basketball team since her junior year. She has averaged 11.8 points per game.

Krishawn Crockett, who is a leader on and off the court, is a big piece of the varsity basketball team this season.

“She is really aggressive on the court and can make really good passes,” Jayla Calhoun ‘15 a fellow teammate said.

She has helped the girls’ team (21-6 overall, 12-1 in Districts) to a big season. With an upset over fifth-ranked Barbers Hill last Saturday, the girls’ moved into a tie for first place in the district.

Crockett, who is averaging 11.8 points per game, has played since the fifth grade and can play multiple positions. Playing for middle schools, high schools and AAU teams she has had a lot of experience.

“AAU is very competitive,” Crockett said. “Everyone there is good.

Crockett moved to Summer Creek her sophomore year and played on JV. She moved to varsity her junior year.

“Shawn is a very intelligent player. She definitely finds the open player. Also, she is a very good shooter,” varsity coach Angie McDonald said.

Now in her senior year, she sees the team going far in the playoffs. Her plans are to be the first team in the basketball program to make it past the second round.

“Our goal as a team is to definitely make it really far in the playoffs,” said Crockett. “And to do so we have to stay mentally tough and on the same page.”

Crockett is described as a quiet leader. A lot of her teammates respect her and follow her lead.

“She definitely has had a huge impact on the team as a leader,” McDonald said. “She has high expectations for herself and the team.”

After finishing high school, she plans on playing college ball. There is no doubt in McDonald’s mind Crockett will find success.

“Just by her work ethic, she will be successful in whatever she decides to do in the future,” said McDonald.

It has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get where Crockett is and to where she wants to be.

“You have to work when everybody else is sleeping,” said Crockett.

FEBRUARY 2014

11

SPORTS

Minor finds escape in wheelchair basketball Junior adapts quickly to a new version of a game he has always loved.

REGINE MURRAY STAFF REPORTER

Daquan Minor, ‘15, still sits in the back of his class and cracks jokes on a regular basis. He’s a fixture in the crowd or on the sidelines at football and basketball games. And he still has the same core of friends he had before a car accident changed all their lives.

Minor suffered the worst injuries of his six friends in the car that day. Bound to a wheelchair, he has moved forward.

“I’m not moping around,” he said.

Minor is actually thriving in his journey to recovery. He spends countless hours in therapy.

“I’ve really progressed,” Minor said. “I started with no movement in my legs at all. I got movement back but no feeling.

They’re trying to teach me how to walk without feeling in my legs.”

Minor has accepted the fact that his life is changed forever because of the accident, but one thing he hasn’t let change is his passion for basketball.

“I always played basketball,” Minor said. “I did it in middle school, and I have a heart condition so it wasn’t as rough as football.”

Minor currently plays for TIRR Hotwheels, a wheelchair basketball team in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.

“We play rough, you might even flip out of your chair,” said Minor. “Most of our tournaments are out of town which is fun, and it’s a good way to get my head off things.”

With a team that’s currently ranked No. 3 in the nation, Minor has adjusted well to the sport. The team has upcoming games in Nashville and Oklahoma City. They have already secured a spot at NWBA national championships in Louisville, Kentucky, where they won the title a year ago.

“He’s only been playing six months,” said coach Trice Ham. “Wheelchair basketball is really hard to start, but Daquan has come along faster than anyone

12

FEBRUARY 2014

Photos by Briana Johnson

Daquan Minor, ‘15, takes a break after finishing up a drill during evening basketball practice at West Gray Recreation Center. Minor plays for TIRR Hotwheels, a traveling paralympic sport club of Houston. He has been in a wheelchair since last February.

Daquan Minor, ‘15 stops to listen to Trice Ham, head coach of Tirr Hotwheels. Ham has been coaching Minor for the past six months.

I know. He already has colleges looking at him. I trust his shot, he’s a leader on the team and I’m very proud of him.”

Minor was able to join the team because of his mom Quian Branon. She works nights and spends her days helping get her son to therapy and practices.

“She barely gets any sleep,” he said.

She admitted it can be hectic but values their time together.

“The hardest thing was seeing him walking one day to going to a wheelchair,” said Branon.

“Once we found TIRR Hotwheels, it was great because I got to see him be motivated in something he loves.”

Another thing that didn’t

change after the accident was his friendship with Julius Perkins, ‘15, who was driving the car on Feb. 9, 2013. According to police reports, Perkins lost control of the vehicle while speeding, causing it to flip four times on the median of West Lake Houston.

“After the accident, I valued our friendship a lot more,” said Perkins. “It was like after all of that, we all still had each other.

Those are my brothers.”

Not all of Minor’s friendships remained intact after missing three months of school and returning in the fall in a wheelchair.

“While I was in the hospital, you really realize who is there

Daquan Minor, ‘15, practices shooting at practice with his wheelchair basketball team.

The traveling team will head to Nashville this month for a game. They are No. 3 in the nation. and who isn’t,” said Minor. “Everyone’s on Twitter and Instagram saying they’re crying and going to come see me, but that wasn’t the actual case. The same ones that did that are the same ones that walk past me in the hall without speaking.”

A year later, Minor hardly looks back. He wants to win his

upcoming national championship, continue working hard in therapy, and become a recreational therapist to help others with disabilities.

“I just value life a lot more,” Minor said. “I learned you can’t take anything for granted. God does all things for a reason, and I don’t regret anything.”

SPORTS

Honors continue for State Champion track coach, sprinter After winning the 4A boys track and field state championship Friday January third, head coach Shelton Ervin was awarded the Gulf Coast Scholastic Association Coach of the Year by his peers.

“It is always great to get recognized by my peers,” Ervin said.

As he won the award he brought his closest friends, his high school coach the girls coach and Mr. Jones the AP principle to see him receive the award.

“I really appreciate the support I receive from the teachers and administration,” Ervin said.

Ervin was notified of this award in December. Aaron Sharp, ‘14, was also awarded Gulf Coast Scholastic Association track and field athlete of the year along with Ervins award.

This was Sharps second award the first when he was awarded Houston Chronicle Athlete of the Year in July.

“My real recognition is how many kids that I am able to put into college and be productive in the society,” Ervin said.

- Danielle Miller

Girls, boys take top District honors, eye berths to State Matthew Kraemer, ‘15, and Asia Quentin, ‘15, were named Districts Swimmers of the Year.

CONNOR BLACK STAFF REPORTER

The swim program added to the trophy case once again with a total of 20 medals (relay and individual events) at the 4A District 21 Championship held at Kingwood Park High School.

Now, they look to do just as well at the Regional meet this weekend in hopes of sending a number of swimmers to State.

Although many swimmers won and placed at the meet, two student-athletes stood out among the rest.

Matthew Kraemer, ‘15, and Asia Quentin, ‘15, were named the two district Swimmers of the Year after each took home four first place medals at the championships.

“I figured I would do well considering the season I’ve had, but I didn’t think I was going to do as well as I did,” said Quentin, who has swam for 14 years but is in her first year at SCHS. “I feel like mentally I have improved a lot, because I have performance anxiety.

“This season has been really, really hard for me because my anxiety has gotten so bad, and it would be so bad that I couldn’t even swim; or I would get in the pool and I would get back out during races. So in that aspect I think I have improved a lot. I am looking at the big picture now.”

Quentin took home first in the 100 but-

Photo By Dominique Thomas

Asia Quentin, ‘15, participates in backstroke at the Kingwood Park Invitational on Jan. 4. Quentin hopes to earn her first berth to State with a strong showing at Regionals this weekend at Fort Bend.

terfly and the 100 backstroke. She also anchored the 200 freestyle relay and the 400 freestyle relay, both of which finished first.

Kraemer, like Quentin, also won two individual races (100 and 200 Freestyle) as well as two relays (200 and 400) at districts.

“I’ve been doing well all year, and so I knew I had a shot but I had to actually do it,” Kraemer said. “I’ve just been hammering it more and more every single year since freshman year, and [it’s] paying off so far.”

His practices have steadily increased from four or five times a week all the way to 10 practices a week now.

“We have high school in the morning and club in the afternoon,” Kraemer said. “Every Wednesday and Thursday I go up to Athletic Republic and train with ex-NFL players.

They go to our church, and I’ve known them for the past two years. Especially this year I have done it a lot, and it helps like crazy.”

Quentin and Kraemer each plan to swim for Division 1 schools.

“This year I have been emailing a lot of schools, and I’m talking to New Mexico State, Colgate University and Rice,” Quentin

Six wrestlers bound for State JENNA DUVALL STAFF REPORTER

Six seniors have one more meet ahead of them and big goals they are chasing.

At the Regional meet held last weekend, six wrestlers advanced to the State meet. The team finished with two gold medals and three silver medals total.

Jalexis Jackson, ‘14, took first in her 165-pound weight class. Dakota Allen, ‘14, won the 220-pound weight class.

Cordarrell Davis, ‘14, Paige Gordwin, ‘14, and Wallace Jackson, ‘14, all finished second in their weight classes. Jeremiah Price, ‘14, placed third and will also advance to the State meet.

“We have a very good chance at State,” coach Scott Howard said. “I want us to try our best to come out in the top five teams.”

Allen and Davis have led the boys’

Photo by Shaianne Rubin

With seven seconds left on the clock, Jalexis Jackson, ‘14, pins her competitor during a home meet. Jackson is headed to State after winning the 165-pound weight class at Regionals.

team throughout much of the year. Davis, returned to the team after wrestling his freshman year. He placed second in the 285-pound weight class at Regionals and finished with a 21-5 record. Allen has a 23-1 record, placing first at both the District and Regional meets. He was given the Outstanding Wrestler Award.

“We’ve come far from where we started

from this season, and that made us work a little harder,” Allen said. “Our hard work has paid off and got us as far as we have.”

The team that returned only four varsity members from a year ago started a little slow, bringing home their first trophy on Jan. 18 at the Cougar Draw Meet.

said. “I’ve been talking to a lot right now.”

With the Region meet and the State meet steadily approaching, both said they are confident about how they are swimming.

“Yeah, there is definitely a chance [to win State], especially in the 200 [yard freestyle],” said Kraemer.

Swim coach John Dissinger is just as confident about some of his top swimmers as the season continues.

Swimmers and divers also qualifying for Regionals include: Brenden Bennett, ‘16, Jadzia Correa, ‘16, Emmanuel Dixon, ‘17, Alejandro Endo, ’17, Devyn Jones, ‘17, Caleb Liles, ‘17, John Minux, ‘17, Jarvus Pennington, ‘14, Jonah Pennington, ‘17, Nicholas Rudy, ‘15, Claire Siegrist, ‘16, Courtenay Siegrist, ‘14, John Valdes, ‘15, Alexandra Vermylen, ‘15, Brianna Watkins, ‘14, Monica Wojciechowski, ‘16, Briana Schump, ‘14, Andres Diaz ‘17.

“They swam really well at Districts, [but] that’s not our main focus for some of our top swimmers, so I think the best is yet to come,” said Dissinger.

“We were inexperienced as a team at first,” Howard said. “It hurt us early on, but as the season progressed, we started to wrestle like we could.”

The team then went on to put on a good show at Districts.

“Winning at districts felt great,” Jackson said. “I felt like I’d accomplished something. We’ve improved by practicing more and you can tell.”

Fourteen wrestlers then earned trips to Regionals including: Ganzo Gonzales, Ubaid Raheem, Dillon Mouser, Nathan Schutt, Antoine Hooper, Gage Attard, Logan Leatherwood, Jackson, Jeremiah Price, Allen, Davis, Jackson, Kierra Moore and Gordwin.

“The season and my personal season has had it’s good days and bad days,” Gordwin said. “I have seen my conditioning pay off. I’ve overcome my fear of not winning and learned to just do it.”

The team will travel to the State meet Feb. 14-15 in Garland.

“I still believe the best moment of the season hasn’t happened yet,” Howard said. “Our best is still yet to come.”

FEBRUARY 2014

13

OPINION

Is attending a four-year college necessary?

For example, 15 hours at the University of Texas is a shade under $5,000, while 15 hours at our local community costs a little less than $900. The first two years Despite what you may feel, stayof college are composed mainly required ing home and attending community classes (history, English, etc.). That college is a great decision. The benefits means attending your local community of attending a community college far college could be more than five times outweigh the cons. A few of cheaper than attending a major the benefits include: cheaper university. costs, the completion of one’s Another common basic classes required to Community college misconception about comgraduate, smaller class size, home cooked meals and an is a smart, affordable munity college students is that they did poorly in option for all easier transition. high school and were not Despite the many advanaccepted anywhere better. This is a huge tages of going to a community college, falsity, as many very intelligent students many still view it as a “downgrade” from plan to attend community college. In the normal university life. To this, I fact, I have a friend who is getting all disagree wholeheartedly. In fact, most four years of her college paid for as long community colleges have club teams as her first two years are at a community and extracurricular activities with which college. you can stay active and social.

Concerned about the lack of night-life The tuition costs are significantly if you attend a community college? cheaper when attending a community Well, you are in luck because Houston is college than when attending a university.

CONNOR BLACK STAFF REPORTER

NO

parents, it’s hard to be independent. You miss the opportunities to cook and clean for yourself, be faced with the option to stay out all night partying or choose to With Lone Star Community College stay in and study. You miss the social being the second largest community challenges of living with a dorm mate. college in the nation and Houston ComHaving to make choices like whether to munity College being the fifth largest, party or study, helps determine priorities two-year schools are easily accessible to and establish maturity. Rooming with Houston-area students. someone you’ve never met and the chalThere is no denying the fact that comlenges that come along with it, munity colleges are an excellent help you learn how to deal with option for families who can’t people in whatever career afford university tuition.

However, if privileged with To truly grow up, you path you choose. the opportunity to choose need time away at a Another disadvantage of attending a two-year between the two, a fouruniversity school is the inconsisyear university is definitely tency. If going for a four year degree, worth the price tag. eventually you will have to transfer to a While it is nice to save money not payuniversity. Transferring can often be difing for a dorm, the experiences you will ficult for those who have been attending miss by living at home are numerous. a community college, because the rigor A huge part of graduating high school and demand of a four-year university is living on your own and making your can be a shock to those used to the pace own decisions. If you attend a communiof community college. Students are typity college and continue living with your MADDISON TERRIER CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YES

the fourth largest city in the U.S. There are plenty of fun places, activities and restaurants to visit if you want.

There are many advantages from getting your basics done at a community college. It’s sad that people sometimes view attending one as “uncool” or even embarrassing. Don’t miss out on a fantastic opportunity after high school by feeling like you need to attend a large school.

cally used to the policies and procedures of community college. Also the classes are usually smaller and more high school-like than at a university.

Lastly, by attending a two-year school, you miss the opportunity to experience all of the fun things a university can offer its students. Most universities have hundreds of clubs and intramural sports.

Sororities and fraternities provide options for making friends and getting involved. Though some of the larger community colleges have started offering sports, it is on a smaller scale and they lack the rich traditions that come with a university. Students will get to experience these traditions with different people from all over the country.

Attending a community college is an efficient and affordable way to extend your education. However, if given the option, the experiences and challenges you face at a university help develop a more well-rounded person and you can have a little bit of fun too.

STAFF EDITORIAL

Announcements impact loud, clear Announcements have come a long way from the days it was done inefficiently.

It used to be the bare minimum, being done a few times a week along with the periodic pledge. However, they’ve changed it immensely with all new updated information, as well as longer moments of silence that give us time to reflect and pray. There has even been a change in announcers allowing for entertaining moments from the interim assistant principal Brett Crawford.

Whether it is bus changes, sports cancellations or recognition to a sport, the change has been phenomenal. This not only lets us know what’s going on around campus but it allows every student to feel connected to the campus and faculty.

Another excellent change was switching it up with Crawford since he is a vibrant and excellent speaker. His persona blends into his announcements and has become a key part in our everyday lives, as he makes many students laugh with his exaggerated speech. While there have been many different people who have done announcement, Crawford definitely deserves recognition for making announcements extremely understandable and entertaining.

The pledge and moment of silence are also now done daily. This builds our patriotism and allows every student - for just a few minutes - to be completely in sync. Whether it’s upperclassmen or faculty members, everyone is joined together in this American moment.

The moment of silence has also been lengthened to around 30 seconds. This is a reasonable amount to pray for those in service as well as anyone in need of a prayer. Whether you’re praying for your best friend in Afghanistan, or a team to win the Super Bowl we can always use these precious moments to collect ourselves and hope for the best.

Who would your celebrity valentine be this year, and why?

“Zac Efron because he’s my childhood crush.”

- Madyson Freeman, ‘16

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“Angelina Jolie because she has big lips and a cute body.”

-Juan Para, ‘17

“August Alsina because I love him so much. He is irresistible and when I listen to the words in his songs I understand his struggle.”

-Brianna Johnson, ‘17

“Christina Aguilera, she’s one of my favorite singers. She sings, does movies and she’s…shapely.”

- Talon Maxwell, ‘17

“Ariana Grande because she’s amazing, she smells good, I’m guessing. And she liked my picture on Instagram” - Jordenn Garcia, ‘15

“Jason Witten because he is tough yet amazingly hot at the same time.”

- Art teacher Sandy Newton

OPINION

Don’t save the drama for social networking sites Social media sites have become one of the most widely used sources of communication in our generation while also one of the most harmful.

JENNA DUVALL CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It’s easy to say that social networking sites connect users to friends, family, and people they know. Social networking sites were created with the intent to link people, but the same sites are causing division in relationships with others.

Any time I get on my Twitter timeline, I can see who I’m following and can usually figure out who they’re mad at at the moment. Twitter has become a place to fight rather than a place to fill people in with your daily activities. In our society, nothing less is expected. Celebrities and politicians lead the way for internet feuds, setting a bad example for the media world surrounding

them. Fighting on social networking sites is considered the normal response to disagreements; however, there is no reason to be disrespectful in person, nor on the internet.

Fighting on the internet isn’t the only problem that social networking has caused.

Sexting and “exposed” profiles have changed the way social media was supposed to be used. I live by the rule that if I don’t want my grandma, a very dedicated Twitter and Instagram user, to see it, I don’t post it. With Google and other search engines at society’s fingertips, something posted on the internet is there forever. Our class officers have warned students of the dangers and consequences of sexting, because it seems to have become a very real issue.

Social networking sites are OK for everyday updates, but they should not be used as platform for harsh words and fighting. If you don’t have anything nice to post, don’t post it at all. Thinking before posting is something everyone should get in the habit of.

15 things to do before GERSON VILCHIS STAFF REPORTER

Graduation

Your senior year is filled with a wide variety of experiences. There are days where you’ll be overwhelmed by schoolwork, applications, and graduation. However, it’s important to note that your senior year will fly by you. There are several things underclassmen should do before graduation: 1. Try everything on the lunch line. Maybe you’ll discover something new and delicious.

2. Be late at least once. You have to live a dangerous life.

3. Tell freshmen the wrong classroom numbers.

They deserve it.

4. Tailgate a football game, it’s a must. The bulldog spirit is contagious.

5. Cheer with the Creek Crazies at a game, they’re a great bunch.

6. Buy a yearbook. You owe it to remember everyone here.

7. Go to prom. It’s one of the best days of your life.

8. Talk to new people and make as many friends as you can before the year is over.

9. Thank and give gifts to your favorite teachers.

You’ll remember them for a long time.

10. Pull an all-nighter on a school night. Although I’m sure we’ve all procrastinated.

11. Join an elective that you think is interesting.

You will never know unless you try.

12. Take an AP or Dual Credit class. They’re awarding and extremely fun.

13. Get a dance lesson from math teacher Mr. Franklin Owino, his dancing is legendary.

14. Put together a scrapbook of all of your friends and senior memories.

15. Lastly, map out your post high school plans.

You’re about to become an adult so it’s important to know exactly where you want to go life.

ODYSSEY STAFF www.SCHStoday.com

Co-Editors-in-Chief: Madison Terrier Jenna Duvall SCHStoday.com Editor: Jazmyn Griffin Photo Editor: Shaianne Rubin Sports Editor: Danielle Miller A&E Editor: Mackenzie Harper General Staff: Michelle Garcia Jordan Mobley Victoria Valentine Sean Perry Dima Helou Carlos Martinez Kierra Norris Gerson Vilchis Connor Black Yazmin Lopez Regine Murray Esau Garcia Special Contributors: Dominique Thomas Briana Johnson Adviser: Megan Ortiz Principal: Thyrun Hurst Summer Creek High School 14000 Weckford Blvd., Houston, TX 77044 281.641.5400 February 2014 Issue 5, Vol. 5 Cover Photo: Daquan Minor, ‘15, has been in a wheelchair since a car accident a year ago.

He is now a player for the TIRR Hotwheels, a wheelchair basketball team. They are ranked No. 3 in the nation. Photo by Briana Johnson.

The Odyssey serves as a public forum for Summer Creek High School and is distributed free to all students and staff.

FEBRUARY 2014

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