Fall Fever

Fall fever

Fall trends are all the rage. Read more on pages 20-21.

News shots fired 04 dreamers and daca 05 gettin' some z's 08 21st century showdown 10

Features trading in the classroom for the studio 12 On Class serves coffee with a smile 14 Community award winners 16

A&E in pizza we crust 18 it's fall, y'all 20 staying woke with the on fam 22 Northviews 24 Golden Age of television 26

Sports mind, body, and sport 28

Opinions staff editorials 30

2 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

Staff Editors-In-Chief Ana Schulte Magda Werkmeister Lauren Yoksh

Copy Editor Isabella Bray

Business Manager Amara Lindsey

Letter from the editors

News Editor Alex Thompson

Pumpkin spice lattes, oversized sweaters, and cinnamon-scented candles? It must be autumn. Some, like our very own beloved yet addled advisor Robert M. Cave, Jr., decry the so-called fall propaganda machine. They contend that the season is shoved down the throats of unsuspecting citizens. They scoff at pumpkin spice, avoid sweaters, and refuse to light candles. They drive past pumpkin patches without a second glance and channel surf right through horror movie marathons. Our response to this is that they should learn how to have fun. Eagles— take some time for yourself this glorious season. Get lost in a corn maze. Jump in a pile of leaves. Punch a turkey in the face. Do whatever it takes to get you in the mood for autumn. And sure, maybe the current craze for fall is just a fad pushed by a capitalist culture in order to sell more specialty coffees for ridiculous prices, but, honestly—what can we do about it? Give into the system. Embrace autumn wholeheartedly. It's a lot more fun that way.

-Ana, Magda, and Lauren

Features editor

Contact Information

Josie Sloan

Mailing address: 600 E Prarie St. Olathe, KS 66061 Phone: (913) 780-7140 Email: theonchronicle@gmail.com

Responding to the publication

Letters to the editors can be submitted to the email address listed above.

Letters may published in print. Letters may not be personal attacks against an individual and may be edited for brievity or legibility.

Advertising

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Purpose

The Chronicle is the official high school news publication of Olathe North High School, an open forum distributed to all students 8 times a year. This is the first issue of volume five. The Chronicle is printed by the Sedalia Democrat, 700 South Massachusetts, Sedalia MO, 65301. This is a student publication and may contain controversial matter. The Olathe Unified School District No. 233 and its board members, officers, and employees disclaim any responsibility for the content of this student publication; it is not an expression of the School District Policy. Students and editors are soley responsible for this student publication.

Abigail Miles

A&E editor Emma Reuter

Sports Editor Kylee Weber

Opinions Editor Haley McGriff

Staff artist Staff writers Miles Arambula Jena Bright Rachel Delehanty David Genis Ashley Honey Kalley Jurgielski Andrea Martin Claire McConnell Juliana McWilliams Autumn Mesmer Paiton Stith

Advisor Robert M. Cave, Jr.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 3

Shots fired

Shooting & Gun Violence at an all time high

by ashley honey and andrea martin Staff Writers design by alex thompson Editor

Gun violence

number of Deaths

stats in 2016

15,081

number of Injuries 30,617

Total Number of gun

58,973

incidents in 2016

Home Invasions 2,566

4 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

MASS shootings 383

defense use 1,975

“My goal, as a teacher, is to help them to be successful and to go on and do great things, and to create a better life for themselves and if that goal, for me, is taken away because it’s been taken away from them, that really affects me.”

- Leticia Pitman

issue 2 | The Chronicle | 5

Dreamers & Daca : deffered action for childhood arrivals

By Andrea Martin Staff Writer Design by Alex Thompson Editor On September 5, many were shocked when President Donald Trump stated his intention to rescind Deferred Action for Children Arrivals (DACA).

According to the American Immigration Council, “DACA has enabled almost 800,000 eligible young adults to work lawfully, attend school, and plan their lives without the constant threat of deportation, usually to an unfamiliar country.”

The removal affects the community here at Olathe North and students fear what is going to happen to them.

Nicole Etherton, an Olathe North counselor, says, “We have a pretty good population of students who would lose their protection if that went away and they would be in constant fear of; what’s my future going to look like, what’s going to happen?”

Teachers, as well, are concerned as to what is going to happen to their students and their aspirations. Leticia Pitman, an ELL teacher, says, “My goal, as a teacher, is to help them and be successful and to go on and do great things, and to create a better life for themselves and if that goal, for me, is taken away because it’s been taken away from them, that really affects me.”

There has no talk in the Olathe District as of right now on what is going to happen to the residents of DACA that are currently attending any Olathe District school. Carrie Parazin, another Olathe North counselor, says, “Right now we are going to serve all children that come through our doors.”

But, even the removal would not affect the students here that take part in the DACA program. Erik Erazo, Hispanic student facilitator and Migrant Director ,states, “If they take it away… in school, no way would it affect us working with our students; it’s not going to affect how we treat our students; it’s not even going to affect the way that we fill out applications for college. Before DACA existed, we did the same things. And DACA’s here; we still do the same things.”

The idea of helping young illegal immigrants was first introduced in 2001, but it was under the name Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors or the Dream Act. Those that participated in this act are called

6 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

DREAMers. The Dream Act helps post-high school graduates and GED recipients to gain U.S.A. citizenship with a three-step plan.

On June 15, 2012, Janet Napolitano, then Secretary of Homeland Security, created DACA. It provides “temporary relief from deportation (deferred action)” and allows recipients to have stable jobs without the threat of deportation.

But there is a difference between the Dream Act and DACA. Unlike the Dream Act, DACA does not provide permanent legal status. DACA beneficiaries must renew their status every two years.

There are multiple ways that DACA helps its beneficiaries: they can get jobs, apply for college and, be protected from being deported. Erazo states, “The main reason or the main benefit of having DACA is so they can have a job and they can have a social security number that they can use for applications and for paychecks.”

The residents as well can achieve a, high school or college level, education without persecution from the government. Pitman says, “It provides them the opportunity to stay long enough in the United States to get an education at least, and possibly offers and avenue to get citizenship.”

But there are limitations to the DACA program; not every right that is given to legal citizens is given to all DACA residents. Not very DACA resident gets the same benefits: some have more advantages than others. Kat Girod, Hispanic Community Service facilitator, says, “In some states, DACA allows people to obtain a driver’s license, and have better access to financial aid or in-state tuition rates for college. DACA does not allow people to access government benefits like Medicaid, food stamps, cash assistance (TANF), disability payments (SSI), and federal student aid for college (including Pell grants).”

The potential removal of DACA is very divisive. While some people gladly celebrate its removal, others are insisting that DACA and DREAMers are here to stay. Girod says, “Not just anyone can get DACA—you have to pass a background check, be in school or have graduated from high school, and fulfill other requirements to be

approved… many recipients want to be Pitman weighs in that, “[They] were doctors, social workers, police officers, brought here by their parents, whether soldiers in the military, and make other they came just to come for more opportupositive contributions to our country…to nity or they came because they’re getting think of them as having ‘[broken] the law’ away from violence, a lot of problems in by coming here illegally is oversimplified their home country, but they’ve built lives and inaccurate.” here, they’ve built relationships here.”

With the removal of DACA comes a But it is unknown whether Congress huge cost for the country. Studies show is going to replace DACA or completely that simply deporting these young immiscrap the idea. If it weren’t replaced, it grants could cost the United States $60 would impact North negatively. Erazo billion and an overall loss of $280 billion states, “DACA should be replaced with to our economy. Pitman says, “[DACA something better and something perresidents] actually get jobs…fulfilling manent, something that has a path to positions or jobs that a lot of Americans residency that eventually has the path to don’t necessarily want to work in…they citizenship, if they were to remove DACA spend money in our economy [and if they and not replace it with anything else, it go] we lose that economic benefit.” would be a very big negative because There is yet anyou would have young other a problem with“[They] were brought here people that are now unDACA being reby their parents, whether protected from deportamoved: the amount and unable to get a they came just to come for tion of people that driver’s license, which is more opportunity or they another benefit of having don’t understand why these young came because they’re get- DACA, and not being immigrants arrive ting away from violence, able to work legally illegally and why which would force them they are so desperate a lot of problems in their to do things illegally.” for a program that home country, but they’ve Either way, someallows them to live built lives here, they’ve thing needs to be anhere. Girod states, nounced to the public to “[DACA] protects built relationships here.” ease the minds of those [DACA residents] -Leticia Pitman that are beneficiaries and from being deported those that are close to to their country of birth, often a country DACA residents. Girod says that, “If there they do not know well or have not visited is no new legislation passed to replace since moving to the U.S. as a child. When DACA, these students will be left without these countries are called ‘home counaccess to work authorization, a driver’s tries’ its is a misnomer because for many, license, and some of the other benefits.” their ‘home country’ is the United States since they have lived here for as long as they remember.”

Read below for more answers and opinions about DACA

Eric Erazo

does DACA help Q: How young immigrants? main benefit of havA: “The ing DACA is so they can have a job and they can have a social security number.”

Nicole etherton

is the removal of Q: Why DACA so controversial? because immigraA: “Just tion is controversial. With

some people thinking we should be opening and others thinking you don’t belong here if you weren’t legally born here.”

leticia pitman

your opinion, should Q: InDACA be removed or even be talked about being removed?

that if we promA: “Iisedthinkthese people that

An Olathe North ELL Class Photos courtesy of Andrea Martin

they would have this opportunity prior to this time period then we should fulfill that promise.”

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 7

Gettin’ some Z’s

By Ashley honey and Paiton Stith Staff Writers Design by Jena Bright Staff Writer The room is black even though your window is open. The sun is still sleeping. It’s pitch black, and you can’t even feel your toes because of how cold you are. You set your alarm for 5:30 a.m. the night before.

You didn’t finish your chemistry homework, but you swear you can get it done if you wake up early.

The next morning, however, chemistry is no longer on your mind. The last thing you want to do is eject yourself into the freezing tundra known as your bedroom.

So you hit snooze. Just a few times, nothing too drastic.

You feel someone poking at your side, and your eyes flutter open. Is that...sunlight? Your mom is hovering over you, a glare seeping down into your soul. It’s 7 a.m., and you’ve hit snooze eleven times.

An average teen’s sleep cycle runs from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. But 40% of schools start their first class before 8 a.m. Staff Writer Miles Arambula testifies that he must wake up at 5:30 a.m. to arrive on time to his 7 a.m. marching band rehearsal, and he has a friend that wakes up even earlier than that--4:30 a.m. These early start times have lead to research and contemplation that was unseen in the 20th century.

Prior to the 70s and 80s, businesses and schools did not open until 9

8 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

Why are some schools still hitting snooze on later start times?

a.m, according to Start School Later, a group of sleep researchers, educators, parents, health professionals, and students. School start times began to shift earlier and earlier to save money on efficient bus routes. 40% of schools in America start before 8 a.m., but the typical teen’s sleep sched-

ule runs from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m.

“One of the most compelling parts of the research is that the sleep changes are driven by puberty and not necessarily a behavioral effect,” says Jennifer Heissel of Northwestern

University, author of a new study published in the Journal of Human Resources. “That makes it harder for people to say a child should just get to bed earlier. It’s harder to do that when your body is telling you to do something different.” Research on adolescent sleep schedules gives many reasons why an earlier start time would be beneficial.

Children that have to catch the bus in the morning often must walk to their bus stop before the sun rises, and teens who drive to school may have to be on the road while it is still dark outside. According to Teen Driver Source, it’s more likely for teens to get into serious crashes when it’s dark rather than during the day.

“At night you have less time to see and react to road signs, upcoming curves, a car swerving into your lane, a kid crossing the street, or other things,” says Teen Driver Source.

For students that arrive to school before the sun rises and leave after the sun sets, there may be days where they do not see the sun at all.

According to the Seventy Four, “exposure to more sunlight before

school raised math scores by .08 and reading by .06 [in school’s on the East Coast/Florida Panhandle..”

Start School Later emphasized that if start times are pushed back, children will start school after their parents start work. If a mother needs to be at work by 8 a.m. and her son needs to be at school by 9 a.m. she may pay for her child to be added to the school’s bus route. But what if her son misses the bus?

Unless he owns a car and is able to drive, his mother will be unable to take him to school. This can be a problem for low income families, because families with less money can’t afford to purchase cars for their children.

In 2013, Columbia, Missouri’s four high schools moved their start time from 8 a.m. to 9:10 a.m. In an interview with the Seventy Four, Battle High School Superintendent Peter Stiepleman observed that their graduation rates even raised from 82.7 to 90.2 percent, students aren’t so drowsy in class, and reported a lower suspension rate.

“Our kids seem to be more awake and more eager to learn,” Stiepleman said.

On the topic of pushing Olathe North’s start times back, sophomore Kylie Volavongsa said, “I feel like it would give me more chance and time to rest, and get my life together.”

A counterargument that often arises when people discuss the possibility of pushing start times back are the new end times for after school activities. If practice ends at 5:30 p.m. with the early schedule, an hour time change will mean that practice now ends at 6:30 p.m.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, a district in Edina, Minnesota claimed to have even more participation in their sports teams.

Wilton, Connecticut; Nathan Hale and Seattle, Washington all claimed to have better performance in their athletics once they switched to a later start time.

Other after school activities, like part time jobs, would be affected as well. Students would have less time to work, but the National Sleep Foundation points out that would allow students to spend more time studying. Bethany Robertson, a sophomore at Olathe North High School, disliked the idea of later start times because of her busy after-school schedule.

“I don’t think [later start times] would have any difference other than making me stay up late,” Robertson said.

There are many pros and cons on both sides when it comes to this issue. Would Olathe North ever change its first hour classes from 8 a.m. to begin at 9 a.m.? Only time will tell.

WHat Do Olathe North students think of our school start times?

Emma Prester, sophomore Q: Should school change its start times to later?

A: “I mean, I personally don’t have a problem getting up in the morning and I can get here at eight. But I know that some kid, maybe with medical issues have a harder time getting up in the morning, and that it could be unreasonable to expect them to get here at eight which is fairly early to most people. Like I said, personally, I don’t have that problem.

Trinity Mozingo, sophomore Q: Do you think later start times would benefit students?

A: “Yes, with a later start time I would be able to focus more in my first classes of the day.

I would also be more motivated to do work when I feel more awake.”

issue Issue22 | The Chronicle | 92

21ST Century

DS SCience and medical Professions enter burns and mcdonnell’s battle of the brains competition For the past six years, the Olathe North Distinguished Scholars Science program has participated in Battle of the Brains. This competition allows schools to demonstrate their prowess in STEM fields by creating a proposal for an exhibit to be displayed in Union Station’s Science City. After taking home first place for two years, DS Science is ready to take on the contest once again. This year, they are not alone: Olathe North will also be represented by Medical Professions.

According to its website, Battle of the Brains is a competition held biannually by Burns and McDonnell, allowing one year for the competition, and one year for the the winning exhibit to be displayed in Science City. Additionally, the winning schools can earn part of a $155,000 grant, the grand prize winner receiving $50,000. The benefits of the winning team are not limited to this monetary award.

The opportunity to work with architect, engineers, managers, graphic designers, and researchers are also part of this notable award.

Olathe North is no stranger to these lavish prizes. The Distinguished Scholars Science Program won the competition in both 2011, with their project Unplugged, and in 2013, with Tapped Out. Because the program had won the previous two years, they were not allowed to win a third.

According to seniors Danica Pecana and Ellie Miller, and junior Jolly Patro, DS Science’s chances of winning this year are high.

“We had an awesome exhibit last year, but we technically weren’t allowed to win,” says Pecana. “So this year, we are even hungrier for it.”

The students have been working tirelessly since August to create a concept for the competition, working during class time, and even for up to eight hours at a time during weekends and professional days. The hardest part about starting the project, Patro divulges, was not coming up with an idea. It was picking a topic. The girls explain that this topic should cover fundamental science, and be specific enough for an exhibit. They share that they have accom-

10 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

plished this goal, however, they would not share that topic, as they have been keeping it under wraps due to the competition with Medical Professions.

Medical Professions, on the other hand, has nothing to hide. Unlike DS Science, the program has split into different groups to submit multiple projects.

Senior Daisy Langat’s group, for example, is doing their project on immunology, while junior Priya Lakshmana’s is on vision. Both girls agreed their groups’ goal was to create a project centered around a relevant and relatively unknown biology topic that pertains to everybody.

The most challenging part, Langat shares, was figuring out the logistics of the exhibit. “The funding, calculating every single material, knowing what the model is going to look like, how much space you’re going to need,” However, according to Lakshmana, these hardships were rewarding. Not only did they learn about science, but also about each other.

“Most of the people in my group wouldn’t have talked to each other, but this project made everyone come together,” she says. Teamwork forced the students to practice leadership, and communication. Lakshmana believes these skills will lead them to win the competition. After going through the rubric and revising draft after draft, she says she feels very confident in her group’s chances. Langant did not share Lakshmana’s confidence, but only because as a group of seniors, AP classes took away from time her group could have spent working on the project.

“‘Most of the people in my group wouldn’t have talked to each other, but this project made everyone come together,’” Despite this, she is still proud of her group’s work and says their exhibit is worth the win. Langant admits that it is “kind of intimidating” competing against DS due to their previous winnings. Because of their secrecy, Langant and Lakshmana are unsure what they are even competing against. However, Lakshmana says that as long as they are as good as DS, or better, they have nothing to be afraid of.

Patro shares that she think’s it’s very cool that Medical Professions is competing, as their background in biology will add diversity to the entries coming from Olathe North. Pecana and Miller agree and add that the competitive dynamic between DS and Medical Professions is all in good fun.

The top 20 groups will be announced on November 16, and public voting on the project begins the next day. The winners of the competition will be revealed on November 30, and one thing is for sure: the competition is fiercer than ever for Olathe North.

By ana schulte and lauren yoksh Editors-in-Chief

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 11

trading in the classroom for the studio

By Josie sloan Staff Artist Design by abigail miles Editor

Long-time ceramic teacher Hollie Rice hasn’t been seen much in the classroom lately. Instead she is behind the wheel, a ceramic wheel. Rice has thrown herself into a new career.

She recently purchased an old, abandoned office that conveniently lies in her backyard and since then has been remodeling it to fit her future career needs. Eventually, Rice wants to work as a full-time ceramicist and offer classes at her studio.

A graduate of Olathe North, Rice went to college and earned several degrees in environmental studies and art history. She also studied sculpture, Spanish, and graphic design. Her original career plan was to go into city beautification.

“In the back of my mind I knew I wanted to do something involving art,” Rice says.

That’s when she found ceramics. She was fond of teaching as well, and being a graduate teaching assis-

tant at Kansas University, she worked towards her teaching certificate. This allowed Rice to begin her career as a high school ceramics teacher, which she has been doing for eight years at Olathe North.

Now, Rice is changing her career. From going to a full-time teacher to part-time constructor and teacher, she is still not used to her schedule, but that’s all part of the experience.

She has been preparing and waiting for a long time to work independently.

Her dreams started to become a reality when she purchased her future studio space. The white-bricked building from the 1950s is located right in her backyard. Since Rice bought it, she has been fixing it up so that one day she can build wood kilns and teach classes at the studio. She also would like to establish a ceramics residency program where artists can live in the studio and learn wood firing and other advanced ceramic techniques.

“It takes a group of people working together to successfully fire wood kilns and I would love to be able to help bring together a group of artists who want to do just that,” explains Rice.

She has quite the way to go but is very excited for what is in store. For now, Rice is still fixing up her studio. When she bought it, the roof was caving in, the electricity and plumbing were disconnected, and many surface issues needed to be fixed. Along the way, Rice has learned a lot about construction to make her studio space’s environment workable.

Rice says, “I have always liked to push myself and try new things.”

Rice is a firm believer in the saying “Life is short.” That’s why she works hard and gets things done like finishing her studio. This is Rice’s main goal right now and once she achieves it, she will become a part-time ceramicist and work on her own projects.

Above: Mrs. Rice’s creative process of the construction and completed pottery.

the studio

This is what motivates her. As an artist, she loves brainstorming, coming up with ideas and acting on them.

She also loves creative problem-solving, which comes in handy when she is figuring out how to shape her career to fit her needs. In fact, this is what being an artist is all about: being inspired, and bringing an idea to fruition.

Rice misses teaching people to throw on the wheel at Olathe North.

She says, “It’s fun to get people excited about what they are doing and to help

Below: Mrs. Rice’s structure of the future studio, to be used to fufill her passion.

them feel inspired and empowered.”

However, she also looks forward to creating some of her own work outside of the classroom. Rice explains, “There weren’t enough hours of the day to get everything done. I’ve always seemed to have more ideas in my head than I do hours in the day.”

Some day Rice will be working full-time in her studio teaching classes and working on personal projects. She also plans to present her work in several art fairs, galleries and venues. She wants

to continue teaching part-time here at Olathe North, particularly her Distinguished Scholars Visual Arts class and at the Lawrence Arts Center.

“I don’t exactly know what my future schedule will look like, but I think I will learn a lot and I am excited to learn and grow as an artist,” she says.

This career move would be bold and risky but for someone like Rice it is also exciting and gratifying.

ARt pieces

Above: The completed portfolio pieces ready for showing.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 13

on class serves coffee with a

smile

Unbeknown to many, Olathe North offers a class called Center-Based Resource. Here, students learn social skills, money skills, and math. Two teachers have started a fun new way of teaching their students while incorporating business skills.

Andrew Caspermeyer and Colleen Farthing both teach in the Center-Based Resource room here at Olathe North. Since September, they have been managing a coffee cart run in part by their own students. The students make, label, and deliver the coffee to teachers who order them. They count out the change and chat with the teachers.

This helps teach them the skills they need to get a job in a real life setting while still in school.

“This is something Ms. Farthing and I started doing this year because we thought it would be good because it teaches them social skills, it teaches them job skills.” says Caspermeyer.

The coffee cart has only been in business since September,

{

but they’ve been wanting to do something of the sort since last year. They were able to begin this year thanks to a grant from the Olathe Schools Foundation.

Many of their students are members of a program called CREWS, which stands for career related experience with students, where they go out in the community and work. Unfortunately, students have to be at least sixteen to be a part of this program so not every student gets to have that opportunity. The two teachers agreed that they liked the option of the coffee cart so that everyone could work together to build their business skills.

“They get some of that practice here so when they go [to CREWS], they’re ready,” says Farthing.

The students get to experience the different facets of the coffee cart process. One day an individual student may get to fill the cups, while next time they may put stickers on the cup, or be assigned

by miles arambula Staff Writer Design by Rachel Delehanty Editor art by abigail miles Editor

the task of delivering the coffee to the right classroom. The students work as a group to put everything together and have fun while doing it.

Caspermeyer and Farthing want to expand the coffee cart and even offer things aside from coffee.

“We’d like to add hot tea and hot chocolate and maybe even muffins, cinnamon rolls, biscotti.” says Farthing. The two also mentioned candles, soaps, or even a T-shirt fundraiser.

With the money made, they make sure it goes back into the business to buy supplies such as cups and creamer.

“We don’t do the coffee cart to make a profit. We do it to invest back into it to add those extra things,” says Caspermeyer.

The coffee cart is a great tool for education with a lot of potential. With the looks on the students’ faces it’s obvious that they enjoy what they do. I’m excited to see what else comes of this Olathe North business.

}

“The students work as a group to put everything together and have fun while doing it.”

14 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

andrew caspermeyer What do students in center-based resource do in the morning? “[We have a] coffee cart in the morning [that] is run through our two classrooms.”

What do you do with the money made?

“The money isn’t that important, we don’t do the coffee cart to make a profit. We do it to invest back into it.”

Above: Students in Center-Based Resource pass out coffee to Olathe North teachers, Jane Bush, Kathleen Dickson and John Lane.

colleen farthing how much does each student contribute to the coffee cart?

“They each take turns, either setting it up in the morning or delivering [the coffee] out.”

do you want to start doing something more than coffee?

Above: Students in Center-Based Resource prepare coffee for their morning run of passing it out to teachers.

“Yes, we’d like to add hot tea and hot chocolate and maybe even muffins, cinnamon rolls, biscotti.”

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 15

the community award winners of Story and design BY DAVID GENIS Staff Writer

o l at h e n o rt h

Announced by the Olathe Human Relations Commission in an official news release.

This year, Jason Herman, the current Olathe North High School principal, has been awarded the Olathe Human Relations Educator Award by the Olathe Human Relations Commission, an award which, according to the Olathe Human Relations Committee, “honors an educator who promotes diversity and inclusion throughout the academic system and exemplifies a positive attitude toward improving human relations.”

When asked what he has done to receive such an award, Herman said that, “as I continue to do this job day in and day out, I keep continuing to learn that it’s important that, we have so many different kids, that have so many different backgrounds and come from so many different situations, and it’s awesome to learn about them and know about them.”

When asked about the differences between past and present, he says, “when it comes to teenage kiddos, and the idea of politics, you guys are way more mature than generations from the 80s and 90s that

16 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

didn’t have social media, the world is much smaller. So, all of us have these politic beliefs because we’re reading and hearing more about it in a smaller world. So, it’s interesting when you have this here at school, instead of kids walking down the hallways, who maybe don’t really have an opinion about things going on in the world outside, you guys do.”

This observation appears to be true. According to the recent Fusion Massive Millennial Poll, young people were planning to vote in 2016, and that young voters are increasingly engaged in elections, a change which, according to Herman, may lead to more conflict between students. When asked about this topic, Herman states, “there [are] more opportunities for kids to disagree and get into verbal arguments or confrontations, based strictly on what they believe, from a political standpoint, from a religious standpoint, from an ethical standpoint, from whatever that may be.”

This may not paint a good picture for the future of Olathe North, but Herman insists that it is a positive and, taken in the right way, can be a diverse aspect of the school’s community, saying that, “I think it’s important that we continue to teach and talk, as the principal of Olathe North, the teachers of Olathe North, the administration, and the students, is that, you may believe in one thing, I may believe in something else, because you and I don’t agree, we can respect each other, because we are the Olathe North Eagle community.”

Herman seems determined to unite the school under a movement of respect, and he is stopping at no lengths to reach his goal, extending his reach into more aspects of the community, stating that, “within the social justice council that I created last year and is continuing to go on, we have a representative from El Centro, which supports our Latino families in the community. We have somebody from Human Relations Commission, we have Brian Williams, he works with Kansas State University, he was [a member of] Black Student Union, right now he works with the diversity relations with the university. We have a young lady from MidAmerica who comes over, she works with with a group called FORCE at MNU, and FORCE, challenging male students of color to get into education, we need more teachers of color in schools, just generally.”

Herman seeks to embrace not only racial diversity, but all aspects of diversity within the school, saying that, “When we talk social justice, it’s not just a race thing, it can be students of special needs, it can be our LGBT students, it’s all these different types of kids, but we’re all represented…, what can we do to better have our arms open, be welcoming, learn from each other, but ultimately, respect each other.”

Amanda Yoksh winner of the Olathe human relations youth award

What prompted you to start the Food Allergy Awareness Week?

I wanted to have Olathe North recognize Food Allergy Awareness Week because food allergies are actually becoming more common in our world. According to the CDC 1 in every 13 kids has a food allergy. With that said I’m sure you can imagine the huge number of kids just in our school that have a food allergy. Since we don’t have the power to completely get rid of food allergies the best thing that we can do is spread awareness and educate society on how to prevent and react to allergic reactions. We were able to teach students about food allergies by training them on how to use epi-pens and show those that do have food allergies that they are not alone.

Do you have any plans to help get awareness to any other groups in the future?

The Kindness Assembly was held in September to celebrate the diversity of Olathe North. Photos by Lauren Yoksh

Yes! We are hoping to recognize Food Allergy Awareness week again this May. NHS had the Teal Pumpkin room at the Olathe North Trick or Treat night that I hope will continue next year. Also, FARE is an amazing organization that hosts events throughout the year that I try to attend.

They have a walk in the spring that is always a lot of fun. I am hoping to be able to transition the idea of teal pumpkin into other teal items based on the season/ holiday to continuously spread awareness.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 17

in pizza we

by miles arambubla, jena bright, and david genis Staff Writers design by emma reuter Editor

cr ust

pizzeria locale

slices!

Upon walking in to Pizzeria Locale the minimalistic, kitchen like sense that the restaurant has gives a sense of professionalism and that your food is the real deal, though, with there being only three or so other people in the store, it felt too big and cold. I walked up and ordered a meat pizza from their menu, complete with Italian(?) names, and sat down with the small stainless steel number I was given. The pizza I ordered turned was about $9 for just the pizza and I waited, watching my pizza enter the fire oven and was brought to me on a stainless steel pan. The pizza itself was quite large, but looked very greasy, and when picked up, it fell over easily, slick with it.

The taste was fairly good; about what you would expect from a fast food place, although the crust suffered from major breadstick syndrome and I left it aside. The store was largely stainless steel so it wasn’t too welcoming, but the food was serviceable for the cost and size of the pizza. I would strongly recommend another option, it may not get you as much bang for your buck, but it’ll taste better in the long run, so unless you’re serving a lot of easily satisfied children, look somewhere else.

mod pizza

Walking into Mod Pizza, there is a great, friendly atmosphere. The first thing I noticed was a mural on the wall with pictures of their customers chowing down on pizza. The entire place has a hip, industrial-chic style. They offer a build your pizza along with some classic options and they have three sizes to choose from: a mini six inch pizza, a “mod” eleven inch pizza, and a mega eleven inch pizza with double crusts. A huge selection of toppings is offered, all of which are free! Once I ordered my pizza, they put it right into an oven. One thing I really like about Mod Pizza is I can see my pizza being made from the moment the dough is pressed out to the moment it’s ready to eat. The pizza itself

18 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

The ranking sytem used to rate the pizza places with five slices being the best.

wasn’t spectacular, but it was still pretty tasty. The crust was nice and crunchy and a little blackened on the bottom because of the fire oven. The cheese was also extremely gooey and stringy because of how freshly made the pizza was, so if you don’t like that I suggest letting it cool for a while before you dig in. All of the toppings were delicious and perfectly cooked into the pizza. I got a mini pizza with pepperoni, spicy Italian sausage, and mushrooms, with an orange soda as my drink. In total, I paid $7.49 including tax.

-4/5 slices

-2/5 slices

grinders @ stonewall

The first thing I noticed when I arrived to Grinders Stonewall was the open outdoor patio, it was filled with fairy lights, backyard games and large groups of people hanging out. When I stepped inside I noticed that the colorful décor gave a ‘’Rock and Roll’’ vibe into the restaurant. After being seated in the indoor section of the restaurant, I ordered three slices of the gourmet pizzas: The Philly Cheesesteak Pie, The Bengal Tiger, and The Crossroads. After reading that this restaurant had been featured on the food network I was disappointed in the taste of the pizzas. The pizzas seemed underwhelming with a lack of cheese, pizza sauce and overall flavor. For each slice of pizza it was about $3.75, which was not too pricey regarding how large the slices of pizza were. Although Grinders Stonewall may have a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere, the food lacked flavor and excitement.

-3/5 slices

spin pizza

Upon entering SPIN! Pizza it’s hard not to be enveloped in their atmosphere, greeted by a large display with their menu of pizzas, each with Italian names, and a large line of wines and beers (which I didn’t get to try unfortunately). The lower level lightning gave the perfect mood for a Saturday date night, or a night out with the family, allowing everyone to dress up for a change. The line of soft drinks they had was a slightly limited (more focused on teas than soda), and came in bottles, meaning there were no free refills, which was slightly annoying, but understandable as the suggested drinks were primarily alcoholic. I ordered their pizza of the month, a chicken alfredo pizza with green and red onions, and a BLT salad, the salads come with the meal, but it is not necessary to get one. I paid, a total of around $13, and was given my check and a large wooden triangle with my number on it.

Receiving the check before getting the food felt a little odd, but allowed for me to leave when I chose, so it was an appreciated aspect of the visit. I sat down and was greeted by my server, who gave me my drink shortly after. I took note of the atmosphere, which felt lively, almost full and busy despite the

restaurant being very slow at the time. I received my salad in a little under five minutes, on a white platter and ate it. The pizza followed soon after, giving me my meal within 13 minutes of sitting down. The pizza came on what looked similar to a hand made clay platter, only just as big as the pizza itself, which came precut and with an “enjoy” from the server. It looked like it might be dry, but the pizza itself held up well upon being picked up, and I was met with a surprisingly soft crust upon biting in. The chicken was not too overwhelming, although the dough it seemed had been quite heavily floured, the crust was delightfully airy and complimented the softer tastes of the pizza’s toppings, rather than being a thick breadstick after the pizza’s body. I wasn’t too full, and I would definitely have eaten more, since I had only ordered a mini, but I was still full enough to be satisfied. I signed my check, and left while being wished a good day on my way out. Overall, the trendy, date night mood of SPIN! Pizza was fun and a good overall experience, the place was open and welcoming without feeling crowded, and the delicious food was worth the cost.

-5/5 slices

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 19

it`s

fall y`all

by juliana mcwilliams Staff Writer design by emma reuter Editor

We surveyed 70 people on their fall opinions in this guide to the season of holiday haunts and cozy sweaters.

42% of the surveyed students

would prefer to go to a pumpkin patch over going through a corn maze, going to a haunted house, or jumping in leaves.

44% of the surveyed students

look most forward to the cool weather during fall.

20 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

29% of the surveyed students

would prefer to watch Scream over Friday the 13th, Halloween, and Nightmare on Elm Street.

mischief night

10/30 Mischief night appeared in the U.S. around 1930 and has been used as an excuse for teens to wreak havoc on neighborhoods with pranks ever since.

halloween

veterans day

thanksgiving

Black friday

10/31 11/11 11/23 11/24 All Hallows Eve dates Originally known as Autumn 1612 marks Referring to the back to 2,000 years Armistice day, the the day of the sup- shopping holiday ago and was believed 11th hour, of the 11th posed feast on and not the financial to be the day that the day, of the 11th month, Plymouth Rock, but crisis, Black Friday dead returned to the marks the end of WW1 today is now know for dates back to the Earth. Trick or Treating and is celebrated to Tryptophan Over1960`s. This day of didn’t come into the honor those who have loads and giving deals is followed by picture until the late served this country. thanks.

Cyber Monday.

1800`s.

The yellow and orange colors seen during this particular season have actually always existed in leaves, but they are overpowered by the abundance of green from chlorophyll.

Leaves change color because the amount of chlorophyll starts to decrease as the sun weakens and the days grow shorter.

Evergreen trees such as pines, cedars, and spruces remain green because the leaves or needles are covered with thick wax and they contain materials within them that prevent freezing during times of lower temperatures.

Fallen leaves are an essential part of ecosystems because they provide protection for tree seeds on the forest floor so that they can germinate and grow over the course of the winter.

Leaves turn red and purple because of the presence of sugars and sap that are trapped within.

The colors leaves change in the fall depend on the species of the tree: red maples turn scarlet, sugar maples turn orange, oaks turn brown/red, and aspens turn to a goled yellow. Also, only trees in northern forests are capable of changing color because warmer climates don`t initiate the shift.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 21

staying woke with the on fam

WRITING and DESIGN BY kALLEY jURGIELSKI Staff Designer

Teachers were put to the test to see how much they knew current slang.

They gave their best guesses at the words meanings and revealed how much they really knew. he knew 12/20

according to mr. walton...

CUFFED MEANS: “HELPLESS, UNABLE TO PROCEED.” g.o.a.t. means: “greatest of all time.”

AS IF!

ACCORDING TO MRS. OSNESS...

SKERT/SKURT MEANS: “INNAPROPRIATE OUTFIT FOR SCHOOL.”

TOTALLY TUBULAR! SHE KNEW 0/20

GHOST MEANS: “SCARED POOPLESS.” he knew 6/20

according to mr. stern... lit means: “Drunk, hot?” lowkey means: “hanging out by yourself.”

PSYCHE!

ACCORDING TO MS. GARRETT...

SHIP MEANS: “VOTE! YOU ‘SHIP’ COUPLES, LIKE ME AND MR. JOHNSON.” RATCHET MEANS: “DIRTY, NASTY (SOMETIMES PARTY PEOPLE WHO MAKE BAD CHOICES...).”

22 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

GNARLY, BRO! SHE KNEW 19/20

HE KNEW 11/20

HOMIE, DON’T PLAY!

YEAH RIGHT!

ACCORDING TO MR. JOHNSON...

THIRSTY MEANS: “I NEED WATER.”

So what does it really mean?

LIT: cool or awesome SWOLE: muscular, in good shape

BAE MEANS: “YOUR LOVER.”

THIRSTY: desperate

SHE KNEW 14/20 ACCORDING TO MS. HANSON...

GRIND MEANS: “WEIRD DANCING.”

SHIP: to pair two people together, usually romantically

SWOLE MEANS: “GETTING FIT LIKE COACH WALTON.”

HE KNEW 16/20

SNACK: an attractive person WOKE: being aware of events

aCCORDING TO MR. ELNIFF...

Curve means: “dodge.”

LOWKEY: keep it on the downlow

CATFISH MEANS:”TRICK WITH A FAKE PROFilE.”

GRIND: to work hard or achieve

ACCORDING TO MS. ZONGKER...

GUCCI MEANS:”A BRAND OF ITALIAN HANDBAGS, PERFUMES, SHOES AND APPAREL.”

SHE KNEW 7/20

GUCCI: good or cool G.O.A.T: greatest of all time SKERT/SKURT: to leave quickly

RATCHET: something of poor quality

STAN MEANS: “A MAN’S FIRST NAME.” HE KNEW 11/20

SHADE: to insult someone

“This quiz be doin’ too much.”- Mr. Estes ACCORDING TO MR. ESTES...

SNACK MEANS: “SOMETHING ATTRACTIVE. IF YOU ARE CONFIDENT ENOUGH YOU MIGHT BE COOKIN’ TOO.” Shade means: “acting shady to someone- not like slim shady though.

SHE KNEW 9/20

CURVE: to reject someone CUFFED: taken/in a relationship SIPPING TEA: minding your own business GHOST: cut off communication

ACCORDING TO MS. SHOPPER...

WOKE MEANS: “AWARE, AWAKE TO LIFE/SOCIETY.”

CATFISH: a false online identity

SIPPING TEA MEANS: “SIPPING TEA???”

BAE: before anyone else, a term of endearment

THAT’S DA-BOMB!

YOU WISH!

STAN: an obsessive fan

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 23

1.

By Ana Schulte, Magda Werkmeister, and Lauren Yoksh Editors-in-Chief Photos by Amara Lindsey, Julianna mcwilliams, ana schulte, And Lauren Yoksh Staff Members

2.

n o rt h

1. Olathe North principal Jason Herman unveils the new school mascot costume at a September 28 pep assembly.

2. At an October 6 football game against Shawnee Mission West, the Olathe North 2017 Homecoming Court was announced. Seniors Eder Hernandez and Amy Kaba (pictured) were crowned homecoming king and queen during halftime. The Eagles won the game with a final score of 41-8.

1 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

3.

views

5.

4.

3. The Olathe North Homecoming Parade was held at he end of the school day on October 6. Students represented the numerous clubs at North with posters and floats as they walked around the outside of the school. Olathe North’s Gender-Sexuality Alliance (pictured) supported Olathe Northwest’s GSA with posters in the parade.

4. and 5. Olathe North’s Faraday Society dressed up for Trick or Treat Night on October 25.

The chemistry-dedicated club showed off their knowledge to children from the community with visual experiments like green fire and color-changing mixtures.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 2

the flash The CW’ s hit drama The Flash, is based off of the DC Comic character Barry Allen, who has the super human ability to move as fast as a flash of lightning, hence the name The Flash. In recent seasons, Barry has had to face The Reverse Flash and Zoom, both were speedsters that posed a threat to Barry and his friends and family.

At the end of season three of the CW’s hit drama The Flash, Barry Allen, also known as The Flash, was forced to go into the speed force, an alternate dimension, to prevent a cataclysmic disaster, leaving his friends and family.

In the premier, Barry was brought back from the speed force way too soon. This was my main problem with the plot; it was way too rushed.

The familiar bits of comedic relief and familiarity of Star Labs and Central City were comforting through out the episode. All of the actors were convincing in their execution of their character except for Iris, Barry’s fiancé. I have never truly liked Iris’s character though I can’t tell if that is because the actress is unconvincing and poorly executes scenes with the appropriate emotions or because of the lack of character development overall. The episode, as a whole, fell into the same groove as previous seasons, the only difference was Barry was absent for half of it.

I would have liked to have seen more of Team Flash in the absence of The Flash himself.

I’m confused about Caitlin, a recent Team Flash deserter, and her returning frost powers resurfacing and turning her into a modern Jekyll and Hyde.

Was she aware of her self when she reverted back to Killer Frost or is this more of a “conceal don’t feel” situation? I look forward to see how that story line unravels. I would recommend this show to superhero fanatics, I personally, however, have been a bit bored with The Flash in recent seasons because of the constant receptiveness of a new villain every week being defeated by Team Flash every time with a worse threat tormenting them all season and then being defeated in the finale.

1 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

Marvel’s Inhumans

Marvel’s Inhumans is a show about a race of creatures called Inhumans who possess special abilities. The show centers on the royal family that leads the Inhumans with Black Bolt as the king of their city on the moon. After a military coup, they are split up and stranded on Earth where they have to figure out how to find each other so that they can take back their kingdom.

Based on the first four episodes of this comic-based show airing on ABC, I can say that the show has a strong idea, but needs work on the execution.

The characters and their powers are interesting, but the dialogue and explanations of their abilities are stiff and confusing. For example, Black Bolt is a character who can’t talk because his voice is powerful enough to destroy a city and that part is fairly understandable, but his telepathy wasn’t nearly as clear. I actually had to look him up to make sure he was telepathic because the show was too vague. Karnak is another character who possesses a potentially interesting but poorly established power. He can see the flaws in objects and people and use them, but the show led me to believe that he could either predict the future or turn back time because of the way the scenes are filmed.

Another problem involves the relationships the characters create when they are split up in Hawaii. The characters form relationships rapidly, without explanation, and sometimes it even conflicts with their personalities. Their relationships with the humans they meet could be very interesting (especially because Inhumans seem to dislike humans) but there is no development and the relationships come off as cheap, forced, and empty. This is part of another problem with the show, which is the acting. Sometimes dialogue that could be normal just comes off as awkward or a character is just cringeworthy in general when they aren’t supposed to be. It’s not all bad though. The characters have interesting dynamics, if awkward, and there is one character I can appreciate whole-heartedly—Mordis, because his entire face is a laser.

Riverdale

Season one of Riverdale was a smash hit among viewers ages from 18-49. With the highest rating in years, the show was bound to grab attention, mine included. With a cozy and innocent town as the backdrop of murder investigation, a family feud that stretches over decades, and teenagers meddling with the law, Riverdale has the perfect recipe for a thrilling drama.

The enthralling series is based off of the 1950s Archie Comics, but with a contemporary twist on the iconic characters Betty, Jughead, Veronica, and Archie. Season one of the modernized Riverdale incorporated high school scandals, love triangles and a murder mystery to make an addictive series. The first season of Riverdale compelled me from episode to spin tingling episode, each one leaving with a cliffhanger more torturous than the last. The season finale left viewers with questions unanswered for months and only conspiracy theories to keep them company.

The highly addictive drama was the perfect binge worthy television show, if only there were more episodes.

The season premier did not disappoint. The action from season one immediately picked up within minutes of the premier, and coupled with the colorful contrasts of the Vancouver set, the overall aesthetic and emotions were immensely pleasing. The bond between the actors effortlessly conveys the bond the main characters Betty, Jughead, Archie and Veronica have. The parallels between the first and second season are evident; the first season had a murderer in hiding while the second season has an active murderer terrorizing the town. My only worry is that the story lines will be too similar in the sense that both have a murder being perused by the group of Riverdale High sophomores. Overall, I look forward to the highly anticipated season two of Riverdale and what plot twits await.

Golden the gifted age of television The Gifted is a show on FOX about a couple who discover that their children have mutant powers in a society where mutants have very little rights. They are forced to go on the run to protect their children and keep their family together.

So far, the first three episodes have shown believable acting and a cast of likeable characters.

Connections with the characters are established early on. Their powers aren’t your average cliche wsuperpower either. They’ve got several powers and quirks that I’ve never seen before, and I’ve seen a lot of fantasy powers.

The cast of characters is not only interesting, but also diverse. Their various ages and statuses within society make them relatable to more people. Sometimes it can be hard to watch a show when none of the characters are your age, but this show doesn’t have that problem. The characters also have believable relationships where they aren’t getting attached to each other too quickly.

Characters in this show are likeable, but the storyline is very grim and dramatic which might be what you’re looking for, or might be overwhelming and frustrating. A big part of stories centered on mutants involve social injustice and The Gifted is no exception. Some of the dramatic scenes come off a little cringeworthy instead of powerful, but all around this show is a delight and I’m certainly going to finish the season.

By isabella bray and paiton stith Staff Writer Design by abigail miles Editor

= Rating out of five

mIND, BODY, AND SPORT

By claire mcConnell Staff Writer

Design by Kylee Weber Editor

Injuries happen every day. How does it take a toll on athletes’ physical and mental stability?

One minute you’re at the peak of your high school athThe recovery process for some athletes depending on letic career, but then the next you’re lying on the ground in the severity of the injury can range from two weeks to seven agonizing pain trying to make sense of what just happened. months. For Macie Ables, an Olathe North track shot putter, While participating in high school athletics promotes a it will be another 5 months until she can start throwing again. healthy lifestyle, there is always the chance of injury. AccordMacie injured her rotator cuff, which is an arrangement of ing to “Stop Sport Injuries,” high school athletes account for muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, when over 2 million injuries yearly. The recovery process to most she was throwing her shot put during track and threw it is just to return to their physical health before the injury, but wrong and caused her to pull the rotator cuff muscle. the mental health of the athlete is most times forgotten about.

Athletes are perceived as strong and tough individuals, There are numerous student athletes at Olathe North who but is that the case when they lose everything they’ve worked are at the risk of a minor or major injury. And those few who so hard for to be the best athlete? Athletes aren’t getting the do must go through the strenuous process of recovery. There attention they need during the process of recovery when it are many stories from Olathe North student athletes about comes to depression. According to Dr. Margot Putukian, their injury and they are all different.

“The injury itself can be a trigger that An athlete can injure themselves unmasks underlying psychological issues.”

“I’m hurt and not able to in many ways. Suching as changing Olathe North student athletes are able play a sport anymore” direction, landing on your ankle to set a healthy mindset during their exJaycie Cambell, sophomore tensive recovery process. Matthew Burks, awkwardly, running into an opponent and getting knocked over. Sea junior football player and wrestler says, nior softball player Hannah Schmidt states that hers was,“An “I know it’s hard but I’ve got to keep my head up and keep overuse injury.” No matter if you play a contact or non-conworking.” tact sport, whether if it’s at conditioning, practice, or during a For an athlete, playing their sport everyday is who they game, the potential for injury is the same from either contact are. When they endure a grueling season ending injury, they with other players or overuse of a part of the body. lose a sense of identity as an athlete and a team member.

According to Erin Coleman, R.D., L.D., young women Olathe North football players who are injured still have to have a higher risk of an ACL injury than young men, and attend football practice every day, just watching and standing. most times the female athlete plays either basketball or socIn addition, the injured athlete could feel a loss of self-esteem. cer. Sophomore soccer athlete Jaycie Campbell tore her ACL They stand on the sidelines helplessly observing others take during the 2016 girls soccer season at Olathe North. Her retheir spot and begin to question their worth and value to the covery process consists of a lot of wearisome physical therapy team. Athletes then have a sense of isolation so they don’t talk to gain back the strength in her leg muscles. to anybody about the condition of their mental state.

Even if an athlete says one thing, they could feel something totally different. Parents and coaches of the injured athlete 28 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

have to watch the behavior patterns and change to the athlete.

To help cope with a traumatizing injury is to just be sad.

There may be thoughts running around in the athlete’s head Allow the athlete to feel the emotions they have. Deal with that aren’t healthy and may decrease the progress of their the fact that they have been injured and cannot participate in physical recovery. playing their sport for a certain amount of time.

Some student athletes may not return to play how they “Accepting the fact that I’m hurt and not being able to play used to or may not even return to play at all, but senior foota sport anymore,” replies Jaycie Campbell, who received an ball player, baseball player, and wrestler Nick Bozinos says, ACL injury last spring during the Olathe North girls soccer “Stuff happens and it’s not the end of the world.” Even after he season and has been recovering since. suffered from an athletic career ending injury during practice Next, the athlete needs to maintain a positive attitude with a torn ACL, MCL, and PCL. during their recovery process. Having A student athlete’s injury whether is is the athlete consist of a positive mindset “I wouldn’t be able minor or severe, can affect them in every to finish out my senior can increase the possibility of a faster and way possible. The injury leaves the athlete healthier recovery. year...” depressed because it took away the fact “Not doing the same things I used to do Nick Bozinos, senior that they can’t play their sport anymore. because I’ve had to accustom to the injury,” The mental state of an athlete is so signifistates Macie Ables, who is not only a JV cant to the actions taken by the athlete. There is still so much track athlete but also an Olathe North girls wrestler. in life that a person can discover to bring back that happiness Injured athletes being patient gives them the time to heal, but they once had as an athlete. not being patient can result is the likelihood of another injury When asked the question, what has been the hardest parts that could be worse than the one they have. of your whole process, Olathe North students athletes re“Knowing from the second of impact when my knee got sponded: “Gaining everything back from what I lost,” replies hit that I wouldn’t be able to finish out my senior year in footMatthew Burks, who hasn’t been able to play a single football ball, wrestling, or baseball to collect the twelve seasons award game this season because of an ACL injury. at the end of the school year,” describes Nick Bozinos.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy deaths based on football position Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a degenerative disease of the brain found in people with a history of repetitive brain trauma, including symptomatic concussions as well as asymptomatic subconcussive hits to the head that do not cause symptoms.

44

17

1

1 punter

2

place kicker

5

tight end

7

wide reciever

linebackers

Defensive back

Running back

Linemen

13

Quarterback

20

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 29

staff editorial

By Haley Mcgriff Editor written and design BY HALEY MCGRIFF Editor

Your politics are splitting u.s. apart

“The United States had become so polarized, we [Americans] have truly lost sight of what’s important in this country,” states Chemistry Teacher, Jane Bush. This sentiment illustrates a clear problem we are witnessing today. We are letting our political ideologies divide us as a country in two.

Today in our society, people are being labeled and categorized based off of basic assumptions rather than asking questions with how someone aligns.

The founding fathers established two political parties intending them to compromise, not argue in anger. We as Americans need to start looking for connections rather than the differences that separate the two parties. Everyone is bound to have differences that is how we have such a diverse environment with multiple opinions.

During a time period when even the smallest issue can tear people apart, it seems that political afflictions have become a deciding factor of how people feel about each other and can even split relationships apart. Friendships and relationships can be formed or broken by what party people belong to and how they feel politically, rather than how they are as a person.

In relationships, truth and honesty are meant to be the biggest keys. If you can’t even tell your partner what side you align with or what your political beliefs are because you are worried about how they will take it or what they will say, that is a clear problem.

How would you feel if you had views that do not match up to your parents’ or relatives’? How awkward would family events become? What if a family member had very obvious views and announced them out loud even though you felt completely different? Politics have become a prominent deciding factor in whom we surround ourselves with, including family. You hope to always have an amazing relationship with your parents but ultimately politics are beginning to tear some relationships apart.

Thankfully, I take after my parents and their political views, so I haven’t faced much controversy internally.

At school on the other hand, I have chosen to not voice my political opinions unless the person I am sharing them with are very close.

What we see in our world today is multiple sides completely hating the other and refusing to negotiate on anything, no matter the terms or conditions. We cannot even begin a discussion because people simply do not give the opposing side the time even to get a word out or vote their discussion completely down. Why can’t a country whose whole foundation is based democracy compromise on problems we face? The two sides cannot even speak to each other without arguing or even ignoring each other.

Hyper partisan politics have begun to create a divide that is going to be hard to patch up if the problem is not fixed soon. If we relearn how to respect each other as human beings, people will once again be proud to be Americans.

Do you believe politics are spliting our nation apart?

YES

88% 30 | The Chronicle | Issue 2

No

9%

INDIFFERENT

3%

staff editorial

WHY ISN’T MENTAL HEALTH BEING TAUGHT IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS?

BY AUTUMN MESMER Staff Writer

dESIGN BY HALEY MCGRIFF Editor

Contrary to popular belief, mental health isn’t being taught nearly as much as it should be in high school. Most people can’t even name five facts about it. Can you?

Here’s five to fix that: Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the US. An estimated 9% of children ages 3–17 have ADHD. On average, there are 121 suicides per day in the US. An astonishing 37% of students with a mental health condition age 14 and older drop out of school. A staggering 50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14 and 75% by age 24. Mental health is not included in the curriculum--at least in our district--so if you didn’t know all of that, don’t be ashamed. Mental health should be taught in schools, and not for the reasons you might think.

In my experience, I haven’t been educated at all on mental issues at school. Mental health needs to be taught in every high school curriculum.

Counselor Carrie Parazin says, “Mental health educa-

nATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE: 1-800-273-8255 Teen SUICIDE HOTLINE: 1-800-872-5437 The Lifeline: (ON TWITTER) @800273TALK sUICIDE PREVENTION: (ON TWITTER) @AFSPNATIONAL

tion is very important for high school students since most students need some form of guidance at some point through their high school career. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are all things teenagers experience and struggle with, and everyone should be educated on that.”

Students need to be educated on different kinds of mental issues and how to deal with them, as well as what they look like and why they shouldn’t be feared. Most of the time, when tragedy occurs (such as suicide, self-harming, etc.), it’s covered up or sugar-coated so that it doesn’t get attention in the media. That shouldn’t happen because people need to know the real story and why it occurred, then matters can be dealt with properly.

When people aren’t correctly educated on a matter (such as mental issues), they tend to assume things about it and begin to fear it because it is unknown. Because of this fear, they insult and attack the matter, which can lead to bullying, and can, in turn, lead to suicide. Suicide rates, in teenagers especially, in the United States are at an all time high. Suicides need to be prevented, and if people are more educated on mental health, then the risks of bullying are lowered. Also, teens who have mental illnesses and don’t know they have them leads to other issues.

A prime example of this would be that a teen who doesn’t know they have depression can suddenly become suicidal and resort to extreme measures to cope with their emotions, such as self-harming or even suicide, or a teen that doesn’t know they have ADD could cause their grades drop because they’re having focusing issues but don’t realize it. The possibilities are endless. If students are educated on mental illnesses, they’re more likely to get help, which is key.

Our district can easily solve this ordeal by adding a program that teaches mental health in our health classes. Health is required in order to graduate, so every student would be educated on mental illness. All schools should be teaching students on the illnesses they’re experiencing in their daily lives to help reduce suicide rates. This is an easy fix to that problem, and by beginning with our district we’re helping to start educating society on mental illness and solve the problem.

Issue 2 | The Chronicle | 31

32 | The Chronicle | Issue 2