Bear Essentials
KMS STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER APRIL 2019
VOLUME 1, NUMBER 3
K I L L I N G TO N M O U N TA I N S C H O O L
Seeking warmer trails PG student Chris Mehlman traveled to Spain in search of warmer (and drier) trails to mountain bike on. Page 3
By Ansel Dickey
Killington Mountain School students Francesca Castellini and Matt Fryer present the Faculty of the Year award to coach and mentor Kip Spangler.
Students select Kip Spangler as Faculty of the Year
By Aliza Tobias
Reflecting on teaching styles Richard Morse reflects on strategies that work in reaching students with ADD and other special learning needs. Page 2
Each year, the KMS winter awards ceremony honors students who have excelled in the classroom and in their sports. However, all of the student’s successes would not be possible without the help of the staff, which is why there is an annual Faculty of the Year By Francesca Castellini
Award. Last year’s recipient was Hanne Bailey who is in charge of student support. This year, the award, which is picked by the students, went to a coach, but not just a coach of one team. This person has helped each
Award speech
Editor’s note: This is an excerpt from the full speech. While many members of our community have been extremely valuable, there was one faculty member that stood out to us this year. This member of our community is notoriously known as a workout god Excellence who founded an Insrecognized tagram account called Courtney O’Keefe “cour du jour.” received Faculty of the Kip Spangler is a dedMonth award. icated coach who never Page 2 stops working, doing things like taking care of b-net on the hill, constantly vacuuming the gym floor, and helping L L I N G TO N M O U N TA I N S C H O O L BK Iear Essentials students with their athletic goals. He creates so is a school-based newspaper many workouts not only covering Killington Mountain School that aims to engage and for his athletes but also inform as well as empower students for other teams that he to have a voice. doesn’t coach. “Day in and day out Kip works his butt off on and off the hill to help killingtonmountainschool.org
his athletes and people of the KMS community,” said Tanner Graves. “He constantly encourages us to be a self actualized athlete.” “His true attentiveness to movements in the gym helps athletes improve on the hill. He also does a good job utilizing athletic testing to
make advancements in an athlete’s training. Kip’s out of the box thinking allows him to formulate individual plans to create success,” said Izzi Nolan. It’s his happiness towards life, charismatic attitude, and interest in students’ lives that has left an impact on this community.
By Ansel Dickey
Kip Spangler humbly accepts the Faculty of the Year award selected and presented by KMS students.
and every team at the school by creating workouts and offering advice. He is always a smiling face around campus, and is fully deserving of the 2019 Faculty of the Year Award. Congratulation to coach Kip Spangler.
Cyclocross prepares for road season
By Aliza Tobias
After a short month off from the cyclocross season, the cycling team is now preparing for the upcoming road season. One step of getting ready for road season is getting in base miles. What better place to get in long hours and hundreds of miles than the flat, sunny roads of Florida. On Feb. 15, the team, consisting of Sarah Gibertoni, Aliza Tobias, and Matthew Krimmel from KMS as well as David Sandoval, Jack Lynch, Grant Woods, and Hans Wakeman headed to Archer, Florida. The 21 hour drive was split, thankful, as senior at KMS Aliza Tobias planned a visit to Brevard College in North Carolina as she plans to attend there in the upcoming fall. Getting a chance to spin out the legs with the college team after a long day of driving was relieving, as well as the fact that the roads in the area were spectacular, as were the many waterfalls. With more than half of the drive down, the team was able to arrive at the house in Archer by late Sunday afternoon, just in time for an evening spin. The following day, was when
Cyclocross, page 2
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KMS BEAR ESSENTIALS
The Mountain Times • April 10-16, 2019
Reflection from a busy period of teaching
Bear Essentials Bear Essentials is an student newspaper serving the community of Killington Mountain School, located at 2708 Killington Road. 802-422-5671 KillingtonMountainSchool.org
Seeing strengths through obstacles associated with ADD
K I L L I N G TO N M O U N TA I N S C H O O L
By Richard Morse
As a teacher if anyone of my students are on a learning plan, or have a designation I receive all their information. I certainly utilize this to create meaningful and lasting lessons that my students can benefit from, but I also in a way ignore the labels (my students are never a label – they are an individual). In our small individualized classroom setting this is possible to accomplish. My teaching technique is to give information a lot of different ways. That way (I hope) something is bound to work. If I have a concept that I feel is important, then my students are going to learn it! I will give a little bit of reading for those who like that, a short video for those who like visual stimulus, an explanation for audio, demonstrations and lots of hands on activities. Then, I may repeat the same
process again and again. Repetition is important but it does not have to be repetitive. Tthere are always multiple ways to present a concept and there are always different perspectives to work with. I find with lots of dynamic, connected and meaningful lessons students remember concepts for years and years. This is one thing I seek, not just knowledge, but understanding that lasts. In retrospect this month, I realized that I had a been working with a lot of students labeled with Attention Deficit. I started to wonder what makes them different, and what are they seeing/experiencing on their side of the “table”? And are there different things I can do that might help? So, through observations and reflective thoughts I came up with an analogy: Students with ADD have
a tough time filtering stimulation. It’s like there is a TV in their mind’s eye and the channels keep getting charged. It’s hard to get their attention unless you’re on their channel. (But you, and possibly they, don’t have the remote). The only way to catch the channel they’re on is to keep trying different channels and when you catch them on their channel they seem to be very good at thinking outside the box and are very creative. I have only begun to think through the questions. I just wanted to share the thoughts so far. I have one last remark: As with anything labeled as a deficit in the human mind, there are other areas where strengths exist. Sometimes it’s necessary to find the strengths and work with those, then focus on how to get around the weaknesses.
Journalism students
Aliza Tobias ---------------------------------------------------Senior Cameron Washburn-------------------------------------------Senior Tye McBroom ----------------------------------------------- Senior Lizzie DeGraw ---------------------------------------------- Junior Caroline Roy ------------------------------------------- Sophomore Sarah Gibertoni ---------------------------------------- Sophomore Richard Morse --------------------------------------- KMS teacher Jason Mikula -------------------------- Advisor, Mountain Times
Contributing writers/photographers
Sydney Bennett
Amy Allen
Ansel Dickey
By Ansel Dickey
COURTNEY O’KEEFE
Faculty of the month awarded to Courtney O’Keefe
By Amy Allen and Sydney Bennett
Submitted
Killington Mountain School cyclocross student-athletes traveled to Florida to train this past February in advance of the season.
Cyclocross:
Training in warmer climates gives the KMS team a head start for the season
continued from page 24A
the training started. Base miles mainly serve as a foundation of the season; long hours on the bike on flat/easy roads in order to build up stamina and endurance. For the first week, the sun was shining, and by the end over 433 miles were completed in just over 24 hours. Over a day spent in the saddle in one week is a long time, but to break up the time on longer rides Subway stops are planned into ride routes as well as gas stations for water refills, which are especially needed on long days in over 90 degree heat. Additionally, during the first week, a stop at an alligator conservatory was included. As always, the ‘gator stop was
a success as the team was able to see one ‘gator with over eight newly born ones crawling around. Thankfully, the only ‘gators seen on the trip were ones a safe distance away in a reservoir. With all of the miles adding up, the second week started with a rest day and what better place to take a beach day then Daytona beach. A day in the ocean and walking around the beach was a great refresher for the legs for the second week of training. Due to three of the boys having to leave early because of school, conserving energy on longer rides got a bit more challenging. With four riders, the team completed 360 miles in just about 20 hours in a
five day span. Training all completed for the two weeks, the bus was packed up and headed up north. Sadly, due to an incoming snow storm, the plans on attending a race in Virginia were canceled. The 2019 cycling trip to Florida was a great success with only one day of rain, spectacular roads, and plenty of hours in the saddle. All of these miles proved to be helpful as the team’s first race of the season was an ECCC (Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference race on March 16 and 17 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. But now, until it warms up, it is back to the trainer in the gym dreaming of warmer days.
Congratulations to Courtney O’Keefe, who was elected Faculty of the Month by the entire student body at KMS. Courtney is the Social Studies Department Chair, and is beloved by her students and colleagues alike. Senior Sydney Bennett delivered the award to O’Keefe at an all-school meeting with a touching and heart-warming speech. “This recipient of the Faculty of the Month award is just a beam of light. When you see her in the hallway, she always says ‘hi’ and asks how you’re doing. When she’s gone, her presence is missed. She works incredibly hard to prepare coursework. She has assignments lined up for months ahead, and has a specific plan for each and every class period. Also, her classes aren’t just lectures; they’re discussions, where she presents thought-provoking questions that really make her students think. She is impeccable with scheduling and makes sure that the class is on pace. She’s always ready to teach, and there has never been a time when I have showed up to class and she wasn’t ready to go with an agenda on the board, and an assignment on hand,” Bennett said. She continued, “In addition to having a plan for every class, she is also incredibly understanding. When students are away on trips, she helps orient them with deadlines so that they don’t fall too far behind. If students in her class have a heavy course load she will give a work day to catch up. If a student’s homework is late, she will still help. O’Keefe, page 4
KMS BEAR ESSENTIALS
The Mountain Times • April 10-16, 2019
By Aliza Tobias
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Chris Mehlman seeks warmer trails
While most of us have been spending our time enjoying the New England winter (and spring) snowfalls, one KMS PG athlete took a trip somewhere much, much warmer. Chris Mehlman, a first year KMS PG athlete hailing from Massachusetts boarded a flight to Spain for seven weeks. From Jan. 7-Feb. 25, Mehlman was training for his upcoming mountain bike (MTB) season in Malaga, Spain with a few other American athletes, such as a previous KMS student, Josh Chu from Hanover, New Hampshire. Why travel all the way to Spain for training? The answer is quite simple: to escape the cold and save money. Surprisingly enough, Mehlman states that “after doing some research, I realized that Spain would actually be cheaper than somewhere in the U.S. for the amount of time I was going for.” Besides just saving money and being able to feel the warm sun, the trip also offered a fantastic cultural experience. Since Mehlman did take 2019 as a gap year before college, this was the perfect opportunity to maximize training as well as expand culturally. Before he decided upon attending KMS in the fall, Mehlman knew he wanted to travel somewhere warm to train in the winter, and with the help of KMS Cycling coach, Brad Ramsay, plans were put into place. KMS alum and previous pro-racer,
Ansel Dickey, additionally assisted Mehlman in the process by setting up communication between other racers over in Spain during that time. Lodging with other Americans not only lowered expenses, but made a more enjoyable experience. The middle of winter may not seem like a prime time for cycling, but it is actually one of the most principle times of the season. After a few weeks of base training, which serves as a cyclist’s solid foundation for the season, comes the build season. For Chris Mehlman, his build season consisted of two four week blocks of intensity workouts. Each block included three weeks of work and one rest week in order for the body to adapt and recover from the stresses of training in the previous weeks. During the week, Mehlman would have three “hard” workouts, consisting of intervals and threshold work. On the remaining days would be varying length endurance or recovery rides. Before his second block of four week training, was an FTP test – a 20 minute all out effort in order to see how much power can be produced at your max effort, which is supposedly what the athlete could hold for one hour. In the last few weeks, Mehlman worked on start intervals, short hill repeats and open-ended “aggressive rides,” as he said his coach puts it. Since Mehlman is training for his MTB season, most workouts, even those on the road,
Mehlman, page 4
By Ansel Dickey
CHRIS MEHLMAN
Ursa Major Horoscopes By Aliza Tobias
Check out your horoscopes this month to see what’s in store and what to be mindful of as you go about your daily tasks. The stars can enlighten us to be more aware of our place in the universe and how we interact with others in our lives. Set goals, seek motivation and inspiration and make plans to go out there and be your best self! Aries March 21 - April 19
You set your goals and achieve them. Even obstacles cannot get in your way when you get going. Use your courage and leadership abilities to lead your pack in the right direction this month.
Taurus April 20 - May 20
Lately, you have been in a tough spot. Although you tend to stay away from the drama, it did find you. To get out of all of this, remember honesty is the best policy and you will be a better person for telling the truth.
Gemini May 21 - June 20
The fast moving world has always been of interest to you, but sometimes taking things slow is what the mind needs. Focus on the key things in your life and take some time for yourself before rushing off too fast.
Cancer June 21 - July 22
As the days stuck inside the house while the snow buries you in are dwindling down, it’s time to be social again. Although you tend to prefer small groups, take a leap out of your comfort zone this month and meet some new people. You never know who you could meet.
Leo July 23 - Aug. 22
No doubt you have been working hard all winter. Why not enjoy some praise for your work? We know you don’t believe in false modesty, so go ahead and congratulate yourself for a job well done.
Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
With spring now officially here you know what that means... Summer break is around the corner! It’s time to get cracking on those plans of yours. Remember that time you didn’t fully plan out that trip, don’t let that ruin your fun again!
Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
You love looking long term, but are you ready to commit to your goals? The school year is almost over and it is not the time to slack off before summer. Consider spending some time with your Virgo and Capricorn friends as they will help keep you on track.
Scorpio Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
People may be seeing you as a bit closed off lately, but do not take it personally. You are a genuine person who hates those who aren’t, and that is not a bad thing. It is important to you to be authentic, even if it isn’t pretty. By keeping true to yourself, you will surround yourself with the people who really matter.
Sagittarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
With spring now here, the luck of the Irish strong with you as you travel. Warmer weather means unlimited exploring potential, you are ready?
Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
You are a mountain goat. You climb up the rocky hill, taking each step more careful than the one before. Your life may seem like an uphill battle today, but the reward will come after all of the hard work.
Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Valentines day may have come and gone, but that does not mean your time to shine has passed, that special someone may be closer than you think. Your undeniable loyalty and communication skills will help your relationships succeed.
Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20
There is nothing wrong with letting your imagination run wild, until reality gets a little to far away. Especially with the end of school coming soon, it is important to remain focused on your goals. The time to quit is not now.
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KMS BEAR ESSENTIALS
O’Keefe:
Wins Faculty of the Month
The Mountain Times • April 10-16, 2019
Mehlman:
Enjoys trip to Spain to train for upcoming mountain bike season
continued from page 2
continued from page 3
Most importantly, she gives her students the benefit of the doubt. Additionally, Courtney is the first 24/7 teacher I have ever had. She is always on Google Hangouts, willing to answer any question at any time. All in all, the students I spoke with told me that she was the hardest-working teacher they have ever had. She expects a lot out of her students, and truly challenges them to make them better prepared for the future. She also understands that students have expectations of her, and she fulfills these by grading assignments on time, reviewing every student’s assignments, and leaving comments and suggestions. Imagine grading the same question responses for five students that are at least five pages long each? She does this and leaves suggestions, which is awesome feedback that allows students to continually improve. She really just goes above and beyond. I asked her recently for help with college applications and scholarship applications, and she has been extremely helpful with the dozen or so letters of recommendation I needed for these scholarships. And it’s not just the students she goes above and beyond for, but it’s the faculty as well. She really works to create a positive environment among teachers and her fellow department members to foster learning. She celebrates her fellow teacher’s successes and hard work by throwing department parties and sending supportive messages. This, and all the other reasons I shared above, is why I’m glad to announce the faculty of the month, is Courtney O’Keefe.” Congratulations to an incredibly committed, passionate, caring, and talented teacher on a well-deMountain Times Half page 2.19.qxp 2/14/19 10:24 AM Page 1 served honor!
were completed on his mountain Overall, Mehlman said “It was cused on. From those races, he bike. an incredible experience because is hoping to gain crucial points Mehlman did work one race which will determine his start it was very different from any into his training schedule, and it race I have done before.” position at MTB nationals in ended being a great success. Cycling is more of a mainJuly in Colorado. Just outside of Malaga, was a stream sport in Europe as seen Giving it his all will be crucial small village, Almogia, which by the crowds of villagers who for all of these races as his end of held an extremely popular local cheered on at the finish and ofseason goal is to be picked up by race. With over 400 race starters, fered arrays of food. Experienca U23 development team, such the race had a mass start with ing this new culture through the as Bear Development, which has only the top riders who had sport and foods is eye opening, sent 33 athletes to World Cups points being called and World ChampiHE FEELS HE TOOK FULL ADVANTAGE OF THE up first. onships since their Being Mehlman’s start in 2011. WARM WEATHER TO MAXIMIZE HIS FITNESS. first race in Spain, While in Spain he held no points and had to especially when you accidentally Mehlman said his favorite rides start wherever he could find a eat cow’s stomach and heart. were in Montes de Malaga Since arriving back in the spot, which happened to around Natural Park, relaxing in the city 200th place. Despite not having United States, Mehlman has afterwards made for perfect day. the best starting position, the had time to reflect upon his Overall Mehlman feels that race had a neutral start which he trip. Overall, he sees the seven being so close to the city “helped took full opportunity of by going weeks as a success as he feels he me to settle into their lifestyle full gas to pass as many people as took full advantage of the warm and it really became normal,” he possible. After a few miles into weather to maximize his fitness. said. the 22 mile race, he worked him- This is essential as his goals for The hours upon hours spent self into a group of the top 20. the season will undoubtedly training in Spain will benefit require hours of hard work to On a long climb, which made Mehlman throughout his race achieve. season, and the experiences up most of the 4,100 feet of eleFor the 2019 MTB season, vation in total, Mehlman made off the bike will only fuel more his move and dropped the group Mehlman said he was hoping adventures in the future. to progress to the race leaders. to perform consistently at UCI While Mehlman does say that “being back in the U.S. feels After a leg screaming 20 percent races, specifically at races in strange,” hopefully he will be grade cobbled climb to the finish California and British Columin the town square, Mehlman bia. Quebec will also be holding feeling back at home before too long. We wish him all the best finished fifth overall and second three UCI races in May which in U23. Mehlman will be equally fothis race of the season.
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