We are deeply saddened by the loss of the members of our TUHSD community. Our thoughts are with their loved ones during this difficult time. As ethical journalists, we believe in reporting with care and accuracy. We have decided to wait and determine the best way to celebrate the legacies left behind.
By Dorothy Florence Cub Reporter
On Saturday, April 19, prom attendees indulged in a jazzy evening of glitz, glamour and the golden age of the 1920s beneath the 24-karat dome of San Francisco City Hall. The historic landmark was transformed into a time capsule of extravagance in true Gatsby fashion.
From the dancing flappers on the grand marble staircase to the meticulous gold-embellished architecture, the space immersed students in the city’s rich history during the most anticipated night of the year.
table and mix of jazz and pop tunes set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Senior Mika Temesov commented that the spacious venue allowed students to command the floor and dance the night away.
“Towards the end of the night, it was so much fun to dance with such a vast group of [students]. Since the venue was so big, when people crowded onto the floor, it made the remaining areas feel very empty since there weren’t enough people to fill the room. But compared to last year, the music was very appealing towards all and brought everyone together,” Temesov said.
Sophomore Annabelle Mast shared her experience as a first-time guest and praised the event’s coordination and friendliness of the students.
“Even though I am a sophomore, I never felt indifferent because everyone was inviting. The whole event was organized, and watching my peers get dressed up was a [highlight] for me,” Mast said.
Social studies teacher and event chaperone, Stephen Hart, said his favorite aspect wasn’t the food or the dance floor – it was witnessing the connection between students.
“I’ve been to 11 of the 12 proms since I’ve been here, so it’s my third or fourth one at City Hall. It’s always a good experience and students always find it breathtaking,” said Hart.
Regarding the volume of the venue, Hart complimented leadership students’ efforts to integrate the crowd and guarantee all attendees were included in the excitement.
“Something that I was really happy to see this year was that [the leadership class] tried to address how big the venue was… It was nice to see [leadership] block off one of the rooms this year and try to push people together to have a little bit more community,” said Hart.
DRESSED TO IMPRESS and ready for the spotlight
seniors pose on the
For a few
Whether
and
a
at the photo booth or sharing a laugh with friends, every attendee left with a memory they’ll carry long after the music and lights faded.
dflorence@redwoodbark.org
By Sophie Levin Cub Reporter
A splash of cold water is doing more than just making waves; it’s opening eyes to mental health awareness, sparking the attention of high schoolers all over the country. On March 31, the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club at the University of South Carolina launched the SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge, a social media movement created to start conversations and encourage more profound understanding of mental health for teens. Inspired by the viral 2014 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Ice Bucket Challenge, this new trend is not only catching national attention but also pushing participants to learn
more about the cause behind the cold.
The new challenge followed after the old one, and included filming water being poured on your head and nominating three more friends to do the same. The USC MIND club members urged friends and family to participate, eventually leading to widespread participation across social media platforms nationwide. The MIND challenge even spread to people like Instagram influencer Embreigh Courtlyn and Paultooreal.
[The SpeakYourMind challenge] helped me see how many people in our community are going through the same things with mental health.
Sophia Davis, freshman
The MIND club’s original goal was to raise $25,000 for the Active Minds nonprofit, but they have far surpassed that, raising over $30,000 and climbing. Active Minds is the largest nonprofit organization for mental health in the United States.
Sophomore Josephine Parasole participated in the ice bucket challenge but said she didn’t fully understand what the trend was for.
“When doing the USC SpeakYourMIND challenge, I was aware the challenge was for the importance of mental health, but I wasn’t sure what the background was,” Parasole said.
Carolyn Miller, from the Wellness Center, said that the trend’s overall message should be highlighted more in order to effectively accomplish its goals. By going to the USC MIND’s official Instagram, one can learn more about the original purpose of the challenge; Miller said most people she knows who have participated in the trend don’t look into the true message behind it.
“Some people get nominated and then do it because they got nominated, without knowing that it’s in support of mental health,” Miller said.
Freshman Sophia Davis participated in the challenge as well. Davis said she is shocked at how widespread the challenge has become and feels that it has really made an impact in society.
“The SpeakYourMIND ice bucket challenge helped
me understand more about mental health because it helped me see how many people in our community are going through the same things with mental health. “Posting and reposting stories makes this feel more like a community on social media and helps raise awareness for a fundamental cause,” Davis said.
Participating in the USC SpeakYourMind Ice Bucket Challenge is a fun way to raise mental health awareness. Miller wasn’t initially familiar with the trend, but after learning about its purpose, she was quickly impressed.
“I saw someone doing the challenge, they looked happy and smiley while doing [the trend]. Sometimes, a trend like this builds curiosity and leads people to learn more about the story behind it.” Miller said.
By Joel Kurtzman
As high school students navigate the college application process and plan for their futures, they face a new complication — the likelihood of upcoming budget cuts to California’s public university systems, which could reduce programs and make college less affordable.
On March 19, the University of California (UC) announced a statewide hiring freeze in response to threats from the Trump administration to halt federally
funded medical and science research programs at universities. Other universities around the country have taken similar action, imposing hiring freezes in the face of uncertainty about funding cuts. Both UC and California State University (CSU) are also facing a proposed 8 percent reduction in state funding, which would significantly impact staffing and student services. While a lot is still up in the air regarding potential cuts, concerns are growing about how they could affect California colleges. Decreasing student resources are complicating the path to higher education for both college and high school students. Counselor Tami Wall shared her thoughts and concerns about the potential impact the cuts could have on students heading into college.
“I think [the cuts] are definitely going to make colleges more selective and competitive. In terms of hiring freezes, that means they will not be able to have as much enrollment or accommodate as many majors, and it's going to force students to go either to community colleges first or possibly go to other states for their bachelor's degrees,” Wall said.
These changes would not only impact students' college applications, but cuts to financial aid programs could have consequences to those unable to fully afford full tuition.
“For students that have families who are first generation or lower socioeconomic status, it's going to be a lot harder to get their foot in the door with scholarships and
financial aid. Especially if the admissions become more competitive, the financial aid options might not be available like they once were,” Wall said.
As students focus on preparing for college, many may not be aware that these budget cuts could lead to larger class sizes and fewer available courses. High school junior Marisol Tramontozzi shared her concerns about the impact these cuts may have on students applying for and entering college.
“I have talked to friends about these college issues, and many of them were not aware at all. I doubt that many other juniors and seniors are talking about [the issues] as well. With that being said, it is important that this is brought to the incoming [college] freshmen’s attention because it directly affects them even though it may seem to them as a far-fetched problem,” Tramontozzi said.
For high school students preparing to apply to college, navigating these changes and considering alternative routes may become increasingly important. College and Career Counselor, Becky Bjursten, offered advice regarding the uncertainty in California’s college system.
“I hope that [the cuts] can encourage people to understand that this is an opportunity to think about alternative college options that offer a lower cost, not a lower quality. I'm hoping this becomes a bigger part of the conversation,” Bjursten said.
jkurtzman@redwoodbark.org
By Rosstin Pouradib Cub Reporter
On April 19, dozens of protesters gathered in front of Town Center in Corte Madera, rallying against a range of federal policies they say are eroding democracy and threatening American values.
Barbara Saren, a longtime Marin resident and protest participant, said she was driven to attend in response to what she described as harmful policies from the current administration.
“We’re protesting all of the policies [and] the unlawful activities that this administration has been doing,” Saren said.
She further elaborates her concerns, citing a variety of issues she attributes to the administration’s actions: “Defunding of science, delegitimizing the organizations that help America function well. [Such as] Social Security, health care [and]
Medicare. Making those institutions that were very well run inefficient by firing people indiscriminately who have the skills to make them work. [The policies] are antiscience and anti-academic freedom,” Saren said. “[The administration] is deporting people without just cause. It could happen to anybody. So it’s a terrifying thing to be going through.”
Organized by local activists, the demonstration included speakers, handmade signs and calls for renewed civic engagement. Among those helping coordinate the protest was Anita Bock, a manager from Grassroots, an organization centered around support movements throughout the world.
“I felt that we needed to do something locally here in Corte Madera to raise awareness of all the issues that are going on,” Bock said. “Everybody that’s here has a couple of issues that they are the most passionate about, but collectively, we are deeply troubled by the direction our country is moving in. The Trump administration does not care about the Constitution, [is] happy to break the law and we just feel that this is an existential threat to democracy.”
Protesters cited a wide array of concerns, from immigration policy to voter rights to the perceived undermining of federal institutions. Nadine Halusic, a semi-retired teacher and longtime Marin County resident, said she’s been channeling her free time into civic action.
“I spend my time being active, trying to save our democracy,” Halusic said, “We do different things to help people vote and be aware of issues they need to call their senators about — such as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which I’m hearing about now. It’s a voter suppression bill disguised in the sheep’s clothing of election security.”
Additionally, Halusic expressed alarm
over what she sees as the degradation of due process and the targeting of vulnerable communities.
“If we had a foreign invader come in, destroy our justice system, our education system, our sciences, our Constitution, in the 1950s, we would have gone to war with that country,” she said. “Now it’s coming from the inside.”
The protest remained peaceful, with cars honking horns to support, passers-by stopping to listen and even some joining in. Organizers said they hope the event sparks more local involvement and encourages people to stay engaged, informed and active around social and political issues.
What impact do you think diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has on our school system and student life?
“I
rpouradib@redwoodbark.org
“DEI
sure that everyone’s voice is heard and an equal say in everything.”
more perspectives
By Griffin Sichel Cub Reporter
On March 25, the Marin County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to ban type two e-bikes for people under the age of 16. The law is waiting for a second vote, but the board plans to begin enforcement on July 1 of this year.
Many underclassmen will be forced to rethink their ride because they are too young to drive and live too far away to walk. This results in many students relying on throttle-powered bikes to get around town.
Freshman Enzo Doffo owns a type two e-bike that he will not be able to ride after the law is put into place.
MANY STUDENTS PREFER to ride electric bikes over non-electric.
“I use [my e-bike] to get around everywhere, so it would be pretty difficult without it,” said Doffo.
The law specifically bans type two e-bikes, meaning any e-bike with a throttle, for anyone under 16 years old. Some students feel this law is unfair as it allows pedal assist, or type one, e-bikes but bans throttle e-bikes, despite their classifications having the same speed and watt limitations.
“If it’s that big of a deal, they should just ban e-bikes as a whole because they are still allowing pedal assist, so I feel it’s unfair,” said Doffo.
The average cost of a general e-bike is $2,000, according to REI. This makes buying a new type one e-bike pricey and not an option for many students.
Freshman Alex Gharakhanian, who has been riding his type two Aventon Aventure e-bike since the beginning of the school year, gives some insight into what caused this ban.
“Some bikes, such as Super 73s [a popular type two e-bike brand in Marin], have easy workarounds for the speed limiter,” Gharakhanian said.
This can allow students who ride these e-bikes to reach speeds past the limit of 20 miles per hour, making them dangerous for the riders and pedestrians on the road or bike paths.
This leaves many students in a predicament about how they will get to school.
“I think some will probably keep riding [type two e-bikes],” Gharakhanian said, “I’m planning on switching back to my normal bike.”
As the countdown begins toward July 1, underclassmen are faced with difficult options. Students will be forced to either sell their type two e-bikes, keep them unused to ride once again when they turn 16 or even use them against the law.
gsichel@redwoodbark.org
By Lily Kilgore Cub Reporter
On Feb. 25, JOANN Fabrics and Crafts shocked customers after announcing the closing of all of its stores, approximately 800 locations, after filing for bankruptcy. Due to declining sales and failure to find a new buyer willing to keep stores open, all locations will be closing. In March 2024, the company filed for its bankruptcy with the plan of closing around 500 of their stores while leaving the “super stores” open. However, this past February, they announced their permanent closure of all of their locations throughout 49 states.
Robert Hayes, an employee of the Corte Madera location, said that ever since the announcement of permanent closure, this location has been losing employees rapidly.
“At this location we’ve lost about six people, but other stores I know of didn’t lose a single person,” Hayes said.
He also added that specifically, the Corte Madera store has been a challenge to keep staffed due to its odd location and high percentage of employees looking for part time jobs before going off to college.
Hayes also mentioned that JOANN’s rising success during the COVID-19 pandemic caused the company to overestimate the number of incoming sales once stores opened back up.
Taylor said.
However Taylor expresses that the store closing is not all bad, especially for shoppers.
I’m really sad because JOANN’S reminded me of my grandpa and how we would go together before he died.
Sophia Taylor, sophomore
“People preferred ordering online rather than coming in in person, which we had expected. We needed to file for bankruptcy because Amazon and similar companies began to undercut their online sales,” Hayes said.
Hayes explained that online retailers began lowering their prices as a way to lure in more customers, leading to a massive decline in sales both in person and online.
This loss in sales greatly impacted the companies income.
Sophomore Sophia Taylor said that she knows of many current and past students who used JOANN’s as a starter job.
“A lot of my friends have worked there, or in the surrounding area,” Taylor said.
She explained that her sister, a previous graduate, also knew many previous employees at the store.
Sophomore Eva Layton expressed her disappointment over the closure.
“When I was younger, I was there [all the time]. I would always make little friendship bracelets for my family since they had everything there. I even think I still have some of them,” Layton said.
Taylor reminisced about family bonding moments they had shared at the craft store, admitting to more than a few visits with grandparents and siblings over the years.
“I’m really sad because JOANN’s reminded me of my grandpa and how we would go together before he died,”
“I was planning on going with my mom to buy some fabrics at a discounted price,” Taylor said. Layton said the closure was understandable in the changing economy.
“It makes sense: not a lot of people actually went there and it always felt deserted. I think it’s really sad that they had to file for bankruptcy, but at the same time, I understand,” Layton said.
lkilgore@redwoodbark.org
By Isha Patel Cub Reporter
As they venture through the school day, students often feel trapped in stressful classrooms with no reprieve. Therapy animals have the opportunity to be a solution for high stress levels felt by students while at school.
Therapy animals aren’t incorporated into our school’s culture as much as they should be, therefore, there needs to be more therapy animals available on campus to provide proper support for students.
Stress is a continually growing problem among adolescents. According to the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing, about 30 percent of people ages 10 to 19 will experience some form of an anxiety-related disorder, and this is Stress can result sports and various other things. All of this combined can become overwhelming and an easy solution is animal therapy. Therapy animals are available at the Wellness Center on campus during some days at lunch, but the schedule is inconsistent and does not provide proper aid to students who need it.
Humane, allowing volunteers to occasionally bring their animals on campus. It’s important to partner with more organizations so therapy animals can be more available for student use. The Wellness Center should be taking advantage of other organizations like Pet Partner to get more animals on campus.
Therapy animals can have many benefits such as
The Wellness Center has partnered with Marin
benefited from the therapy animals.
“There was a statistically significant difference between the pre and post-intervention results, which directly resulted from the intervention. The intervention
was successful in reducing students’ stress levels,” Morris said.
Due to schools constantly piling on more homework and tests with no remorse, therapy animals need to be more common in schools. This would allow students an outlet to deal with the overbearing workload that they carry. If therapy animals were more accessible, kids could meet with them multiple times a day and be in an environment that is comfortable and enjoyable for them.
An important aspect of stress and anxiety that hasn’t been properly addressed in schools is social anxiety. Not everyone is open to talking about their feelings or wanting to have a conversation with another person. If therapy animals were available more frequently during the school day, students who are becoming overwhelmed could use these animals to help deal with their stress without having to “talk it out” with someone.
Therapy animals can also help those who speak different languages and don’t have access to a counselor at school. Animals do not need to speak with a person in order to give them comfort. Everyone deserves support and a language barrier should not hinder a person’s ability to gain the comfort that they need.
An understandable reason that limits the abundance of therapy animals on campus are allergies. However, no solution is ever perfect for dealing and managing stress. People who are allergic to animals will be affected by the addition of animal therapy being adopted in schools.
While this does hinder their appeal in schools, therapy animals have already been introduced to Redwood, and they have not caused a huge disruption. Increasing the availability of therapy animals won’t change much in the already introduced program, and it will be tremendously impactful on the students who need them.
ipatel@redwoodbark.org
By Lucy Levine Cub Reporter
Pressure and expectation are words often associated when discussing teenagers. Many face intense stress about choosing careers and having their future mapped out before college. I have always felt a weight on my shoulders to have everything figured out and know what college I hope to go to. This pressure is amplified by the constant talk of my peers about their plans.
Conversations with adults are always filled with the same questions; “Where do you want to go to college? What do you want to major in?” Thanksgiving dinner has become a dread as adults are eager to hear about my plans for the future. I say, ‘I am thinking about it.’ However, I have no idea what I want to do, where I want to go, or have any plan whatsoever.
There's a quiet pressure in watching my peers become sure and confident in their career choices. The constant stress and reminders make deciding what I want my future to be feel like I’m racing a ticking clock instead of enjoying my high school experience. This should not be the expectation. At a young age, individuals are still exploring their interests
and developing their skills.
For many, stress is universal. According to an article on LinkedIn written by Brynne Labuzan, a content writer intern, there was a study done by
Careerskitchen — a digital platform that helps people find careers. They surveyed a sample of undergraduate students living in Chicago and discovered that 64 percent of respondents felt pressured to pursue a specific career path, with an overwhelming majority citing familial expectations and social pressure as the primary sources. Pressure from parents often comes from a place of wanting their footsteps followed.
Adolescents have furthermore felt pressured and heavily influenced from thei parents on their futures. According to a research organization joblist.com study, 48 percent of “Generation Z” questioned persons felt that their parents strongly influenced their career path. Consequently, when students attempt to indulge in their parents' wishes, it can result in them choosing a career they are unhappy with.
Choosing a career at such a young age is not only stressful but also unrealistic. Teenagers strongly lack the experience and self-awareness needed to understand their passions and strengths fully.
While it's true that the pressure to have everything figured out early can be overwhelming, it's important to recognize that some level of parental guidance and expectation can be helpful for teenagers. Parents push their children to think about their futures because they want them to succeed and avoid difficult obstacles. Being a teenager is a time of exploration, and some people struggle with that aspect and need a push from their parents or guardians to help them
By Cian Kelly
Cub Reporter
On April 4, the Tamalpais Union School District (TUHSD) sent out an email regarding students’ personal computers. Starting next school year, TUHSD plans on prohibiting personal computers from being used during class by removing their access to the schools WiFi network. This new policy limits students’ learning abilities due to the inadequate alternative of school issued Chromebooks. TUHSD needs to repeal their ban on personal laptop use during school.
The prohibition of school laptops is being led by the Senior Director of IT for TUHSD, Rose Chavira.
“There’s a lot of different factors that entered into that decision,” Chavira said. “First and foremost is that it’s smoother for instruction to happen in a classroom [with only Chromebooks] it makes for a standardized experience for the students as well.”
Although it may seem easier for instruction at school, a March Barksurvey concluded that 50 percent of students that currently use Chromebooks have self-reported experiencing five or more
issues with the devices within the past five months.
Currently, Redwood has been upgrading their laptop carts to the Lenovo 14e. The district chose to upgrade to these devices due to their larger screens and faster computing power.
Although the 14e is faster than past models, it’s still a lackluster device with a sub par processing unit.
When measured on Geekbench, a platform used to benchmark computer and device speeds and efficiency, the 14e’s processor scored just under 1,400, a score well below the average for most computers. In comparison, a Macbook Air from 2020 scores over 2,300 in the same test. However, Chavira feels that Chromebooks have one extremely
important feature that makes them a much better option for school.
“Security is really important. Chromebooks don’t get viruses and they don’t get malware installed on them because they’re what are called a closed system,” Chavira said.
50 percent of students who currently use Chromebooks have experienced five or more issues with the device within the past five months.
Redwood Bark Survey
The Chromebooks run on a system known as ChromeOS, a web based operating system that uses minimal resources. As a result of using little resources, the system is secure. However, the cost of having high security on a Chromebook sacrifices performance greatly.
TUHSD has cited that personal computers have caused high stress to school WiFi.
TUHSD, while also prohibiting personal computers, is planning to upgrade every classroom with a new WiFi antenna for greater internet speeds. Despite this upgrade, TUHSD still believes that personal devices will cause stress to the school’s internet.
“A personal MacBook that somebody brings in is taking up resources on that classroom’s [Wifi], and so if the personal devices are no longer allowed to join, it frees up a lot more bandwidth for the classroom Chromebooks,” Chavira said.
find their way.
Sophomore Tatum Buoy relates to this topic. Buoy has been pressured by her parents and herself to choose a career since she was young.
“One benefit [of pressure] is you can know what you want to do and so you can set your academic career to work towards that goal,” Buoy said.
For some students, this pressure from parents may give them the structure and motivation to succeed. However, while parental guidance is valuable, there is a fine line between offering support and becoming overbearing. In many cases, students are over-pressured by their parents and receive issues later in life, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression and difficulty in making their own decisions.
The choice of careers and colleges should be independent. When parents become overly involved, it can be difficult for the student to learn independent life skills and choose the direction their life goes due to the pressure. Teenagers need space and freedom to discover who they want to be, and make mistakes.
To have such high expectations of students and teenagers is unacceptable, and must be changed. The societal expectation for teenagers to have their whole future figured out should no longer exist. Teenagers should never feel like they are behind everyone else.
llevine@redwoodbark.org
between a device and the WiFi network. However, while performing simple tasks, a macbook sends and receives the same amount of bandwidth as a Chromebook, about 20 kilobytes per second
Furthermore, overall bandwidth usage won’t have a significant decrease due to students switching to Chromebooks. Students will still be taking up resources on different devices which rely heavily on the internet to properly function; whereas other personal computers and devices, such as macbooks, do not rely as heavily on the internet.
A March Bark survey reported that around 22 percent of students at Redwood use their own personal computers at school. This large percentage of students will have to halt their current habits and learn how to adapt to a completely new device.
Bandwidth denotes the amount of information transferred
Bring your own device (BYOD) has many beneficial effects for schools. Cybersecurity Insiders cited that BYOD helped boost employee productivity by 68 percent, employees prefer their own personal devices due to having more familiarity with them in contrast to items issued by their company. BYOD also leads to lower usage of Chromebooks which leads to less money being spent on replacing or fixing laptops. Personal devices not only help students save time, but it also helps the district save money.
The prohibition of personal devices is unnecessary, they work faster than currently provided computers, help students stay more efficient and have a minimal negative impact at school. TUHSD must reverse the prohibition of personal devices to better the everyday lives of students in school.
The path to success can begin long before graduation for students looking to get ahead. One option is dual enrollment at community colleges, such as the College of Marin (COM), which allows students to take college courses while still in high school. Students can earn credit through COM’s various online and in-person courses in all subjects while experiencing college-level academic rigor.
A benefit of COM classes is earning college credit while in high school. Candace Gulden, the school’s college counselor, compares COM credits to Advanced Placement (AP) credits. Gulden indicates that, unlike AP courses, which require high exam scores, college courses provide transferable credit as long as students pass the course.
Earning college credit early can help students graduate from college on time by meeting requirements sooner. The National Science and Math Institute states that dual enrollment and AP courses enhance the likelihood of earning a bachelor’s degree in four years or less.
Early access to college credit helps minimize long-term education expenses. According to Chippewa Valley Technical College, tuition can exceed $1,000 per credit. The California College Promise Grant waives the $46 per-unit enrollment fee at California community colleges. By taking free classes at COM while in high school, students can reduce the number of credits they’ll need to pay for later in their education, potentially saving thousands of dollars in tuition.
Another advantage of enrolling in COM classes is early exposure to collegelevel rigor, helping students build the skills needed to handle future academic challenges. The American College Testing website highlights that dual enrollment prepares students for college work, making the transition from high school to higher education smoother.
COM courses allow students to explore subjects beyond the standard high school curriculum. Exploring different fields
through various courses can help students make informed decisions about their future careers and interests. Dr. Brian Collision, an associate professor of psychology at Azusa Pacific University, further discusses how taking a variety of classes allows students to identify their passion and career calling. Students should follow their interests through classes that offer handson experience, broaden perspectives and build valuable skills.
Some parents, students and studies argue that dual enrollment can pressure students and lead to anxiety and burnout. However, it is a personal choice, and each student must assess their ability to manage the workload that comes with a collegelevel course.
COM’s Jumpstart College Credit Program ensures that students take the proper steps to enroll in courses with support. The program requires parental consent, principal approval and counselor input to develop a plan that ensures students can handle their workload.
Despite the benefits, many students overlook dual enrollment opportunities. However, these classes help students get a head start on earning college credit, reduce future education costs, provide opportunities to explore potential careers, ease future course loads and offer early exposure to college-level academics before graduation. Students can visit the College and Career Center in room 111 for guidance and help with course registration.
hmartay@redwoodbark.org
Community college classes offer college-level (dual enrollment) courses for high school students, allowing them to earn credits before graduating. While these classes can be beneficial, they often negatively affect overachieving students. Dual enrollment courses should not be available to students who take them solely to boost their transcript, as they increase stress, distract from the high school experience and are frequently ineffective because students enter them unprepared. These issues are evident when high schoolers take courses at institutions such as the College of Marin
A survey by COM’s Research and Student Analytics Department found that, out of 3,000 dual-enrolled high school students, 41 percent identified their dual enrollment course load as their primary source of stress. High schoolers juggle various responsibilities, and these classes are ranked as the most stressful aspect of it all. This highlights the intense pressure these courses add, making students feel unnecessarily overburdened. Additionally, these courses take time away from students’ high school lives. Balancing dual enrollment means sacrificing free time and missing out on high school experiences like being involved in clubs, sports and other activities. According to BestColleges, dual-enrollment participants tend to have less time for extracurriculars, causing them to miss out on the more enjoyable side of school. With limited free time, students lose valuable moments with friends, which are crucial for mental health. The brain
By Reed Grossman and Gabe Cavanagh Cub Reporters
Over the past few years, vaping has become a major issue in high schools across the country. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), commonly known as vapes, are battery-powered devices that work by heating an “e-juice.” According to the American Lung Association, these “e-juices” often contain nicotine or cannabis, along with other chemicals and artificial flavorings, which produce an aerosol that users inhale. Nicotine and cannabis are both highly addictive substances that present large threats to the neuro health of teenagers whose brains are still developing.
is an established policy, the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) must take further action to prevent vaping in restrooms and restore them as safe, accessible spaces for all students.
Senior Marley Nacco is one of many who have had ongoing experiences with students using the restroom as a place to vape.
The prevalence of vaping in schools, particularly in unsupervised locations such as restrooms, is high. Major factors behind the teenage vaping epidemic are targeted advertisements toward youth and the ease of obtaining vape products. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2024, 7.8 percent of high school students in the U.S. used e-cigarettes. While there
“Every day for the past three years, I have seen [students] vaping in the bathroom. There has never been someone not vaping,” Nacco said.
All U.S. states have passed laws prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes and tobacco to people under the age of 21. Not only is vaping illegal, but it disrupts the proper use of school bathrooms, making it uncomfortable for students who simply need to use the restroom. According to a March Bark survey, 45 percent of students have felt uncomfortable around peers vaping on campus. Additionally, 47 percent of students believe the administration isn’t doing enough to stop drug use on campus, suggesting a need for improvement.
Addiction, particularly to nicotine, is a serious problem that many teenagers fail to understand before it’s too late.
needs social interaction to develop in a healthy way. A lack of interaction can lead to loneliness and emotional distress, which can challenge students’ success in advanced classes if they are too overwhelmed with outside problems. Taking on these classes often leaves students overwhelmed by a relentless workload, which leaves them exhausted.
Moreover, many students lack the preparation needed to succeed in these courses, which ultimately leads to even more stress. According to the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, students who enter dual enrollment courses while unprepared tend to struggle more. When students have not acquired complex academic skills through high school, they will have a harder time with advanced material.
High schools do not always prepare students with the skills required for dual enrollment college-level courses, making the transition to a more advanced environment overwhelming for most students. Without proper support, students can struggle academically, leading to increased anxiety and discouragement.
While some students take dual enrollment classes out of genuine interest, many enroll simply to enhance their transcripts. The pressure to appear competitive for college admissions often forces students to over exhaust themselves. Instead of fostering a love for learning, these classes can reinforce the belief that more coursework equals success. This can lead to burnout, leaving students unfulfilled despite their achievements.
Ultimately, high school students should not enroll in college classes just to improve their transcript. Doing so can lead to unnecessary anxiety and diminish the high school experience. Students should challenge themselves in a healthy way — one that promotes growth without overwhelming them. Prioritizing wellbeing over status is key to a balanced and fulfilling academic journey, ensuring that students find joy in their education while maintaining their overall health.
azlatoper@redwoodbark.org
Yale neuroscientist Marina Picciotto explains that many adolescents don’t think they will get addicted to nicotine, but once they want to quit, they find it extremely difficult. Nicotine causes the release of dopamine in the brain, which gives teenagers a “high” feeling and makes them constantly come back for more. While the adolescent brain is developing, its reward system is more sensitive, making nicotine easily addictive.
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bark@redwoodbark.org
By Siena Forster Cub Reporter
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, with participation increasing 158.6 percent over the last three years. To align with this significant growth, a pickleball team should be created for students to enjoy. Pickleball has many mental and physical health benefits while being a low-impact sport that’s easy to learn.
Including lots of movement in a fastpaced game, pickleball has many benefits for students' physical health. According to U.S. News, “Pickleball players who played at least three days per week […] can expect to see improvements in fitness and heart health.” These benefits are vital because they improve agility and can help students stay in shape.
To add, pickleball causes the body to release endorphins or “feel-good” neurotransmitters that get rid of stress and anxiety. People with higher endorphins are generally happier because endorphins release dopamine, another neurotransmitter associated with happiness. According to ABC News, likleyhood of developing clynical depression was 60 percent lower among frequent pickleball players, proving how much endorphins can help improve students' mental health by reducing depression.
Pickleball also helps cognitive function by activating students’ quick thinking skills and memory recall because its fast pace requires split-second decisions. These skills, which can be acquired through pickleball, can help students inside the classroom.
championship, there were 34 participants from an array of schools, including Branson, Marin Catholic, St. Vincent’s Palo Alto High and many others. The students competed in doubles games throughout the day. The growth of pickleball in Marin could allow the school to create a team that can compete in these tournaments.
Branson pickleball coach Chrissie Costamagna has been training her team for two years and attended these tournaments.
“Any school in the Bay Area, [that will] decide to invest [in creating a pickleball team] we would welcome in [the tournament for doubles] matches,” Costamagna said.
Pickleball would be a great addition to the community because it’s a sport for all ages. At Marin Catholic High School, the pickleball club plays after school on Fridays with senior citizens. Our team could do something similar; it would be a fun way for students to connect with the
Bringing pickleball to the school would opportunity for students to connect by allowing them to learn the game and play against other schools in fun but competitive matches.
“The nice thing about [pickleball] is that it's very social, so it's an opportunity to meet new kids on campus,” Costamagna said.
IllustrationbyRosstin Pouradib
Although some may be concerned that there is not enough interest in a pickleball team, according Bark survey, one in four students reported that
Pickleball is a great game that will benefit many students because of its mental and physical benefits. Having our own team could help students stay active while socializing with the community and supporting the growth of pickleball around
Neighboring schools in the Bay Area have already implemented pickleball teams and taken advantage of these clear benefits. For example, Branson started the first-ever Norcal High School pickleball championship in May 2024. In the
sforster@redwoodbark.org
By Amrit Aujla Cub Reporter
“Just one click and it’s at your door tomorrow!” This message is an enticing offer that most people wouldn’t pass up. Why visit a store in person when you can place an order on your phone and receive it the next day? This efficient marketing strategy has drawn millions into the world of online shopping, especially through large corporations such as Amazon.
While it is very convenient to place and receive an order from the comfort of your couch, many traditional businesses have suffered as large corporations have taken over the industry. We should shop in person because the rise of online shopping has led to the decline of businesses, reduced social interaction and caused major environmental harm.
Amazon was founded in 1994 by entrepreneur Jeff Bezos as an online bookstore. Since then, it has expanded into selling all sorts of products such as clothing, home and beauty items, electronics and more. According to Macrotrends, Amazon’s annual revenue
surged from $34.21 billion in 2010 to $637.96 billion in 2024. This increase reflects Amazon’s dominance in the retail world. Additionally, Capital One reports that Amazon receives an average of 8.22 million orders per day, which continues to climb as its popularity grows.
According to a March Bark survey, 40 percent of students do most of their shopping on Amazon, compared to 24 percent who primarily shop in person. From this differential, it’s clear that Amazon has become increasingly popular among students. This is good news for Amazon’s business, but hurts thousands of other businesses that are predominantly inperson.
aaujla@redwoodbark.org
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By Espy Cubillo Cub Reporter
Every day, students leave behind lunch-line pizza boxes, dirty napkins and crumpled-up wrappers throughout the school campus, unbothered if it gets left behind to hurt the environment. The U.S. as a whole accumulates 14,500 tons of solid waste daily, which greatly impacts the global waste crisis.
Physical Education teacher Todd Van Peursem (VP) emphasized the importance of leaving spaces better than you found them.
“There’s trash all over the place at this school, and it has been that way for [my] last 18 years of working here,” VP said.
The school’s maintenance crew works tirelessly from 3 p.m. to midnight yet some students fail to acknowledge this by continuously leaving their garbage out, thus adding to the janitors’ already arduous workload.
“[The janitors had a] look of helplessness or even disgust when [they] realized how easy it was for [students] to clean up after themselves, but [instead] they left [their trash] there for a reason,” VP said.
It is shocking that students from such a high-achieving school do not realize that leaving trash around is inconsiderate of others and the community. Additionally, not cleaning up the trash and walking past shows others that you do not think it is a priority to keep campus clean, and attitude that can be contagious. VP encourages students to clean up any trash they see and leads by example with daily reminders to respect the environment.
“There are more important things for our maintenance crews and our custodial staff to be doing than picking up after children that are capable of doing it themselves,” VP said.
Corin Greenberg, a history teacher of 15 years, reflected on her experience hosting leadership and five separate clubs in her classroom as a good experience for students. However, if club members don’t keep her class clean, then students after lunch would deal with another person’s water spills and crumbs.
“[If] you’re using my room, that’s great, [there’s] just one expectation, [which] is that you clean up after yourself,” Greenberg said.
The sports fields, tennis courts and track can also be found littered with food scraps, wrappers or even water bottles. Few people know that janitors are not responsible for taking care of trash in these further-away spaces, so coaches and team captains typically enforce that athletes take care of their own mess, however this is not always reliable.
Coaches shouldn’t have to beg their athletes to throw away wrappers or sports drinks after practice, it should be a given. Teachers, who generously share their room with students, shouldn’t be left with crumbs or water spills to clean. Additionally, janitors, who already have so much work, should not have to go out of their way to clean up wrappers and food scraps carelessly left around.
“I hope that students leave places cleaner than they found them but I've been hoping that for 18 years, and it's pretty embarrassing at this point [considering they don’t],” VP said.
Even just one piece of garbage can add to a janitor’s workload, frustrate a sports coach, distract a busy teacher and harm the environment. Furthermore, it creates a bad example for other students and a cycle of negligence.
It is a common misconception that janitors are meant to clean up after students, or that it is alright to leave scraps behind because someone will eventually come by. Students need to start thinking twice about their decisions to leave trash behind because not changing their messy habits is the same as actively choosing to make someone else’s life harder.
Principal Dr. Barnaby Payne expresses his concerns considering the trash on campus and aims for a better approach to make the school more sustainable.
“If I were living the dream, we would all be highly skilled at recycling, and able to organize our [school’s] recycling beyond what we even do at home,” Dr. Payne said. At school, countless efforts have been made to address the waste policy and promote recycling within classrooms and beyond in the world. However, more students need to realize the importance personal responsibility has in maintaining campus cleanliness because it isn’t the staff’s job to pick up their trash.
ecubillos@redwoodbark.org
“Tenured teachers need more frequent evaluations to ensure quality.” editorial
Think back to a teacher who made learning exciting. Someone who explained things clearly and cared about your success. These teachers not only make learning easier, but also more enjoyable. Now think about the opposite: the teacher who barely taught, handed out meaningless busywork or lashed out at students in inappropriate ways. Many students have witnessed these outbursts firsthand. Yet somehow, those teachers remain employed and protected by outdated tenure procedures.
Tenure was intended to prevent the unjustified firing of teachers by providing job security after two years of evaluation. However, it seems tenure acts more as a shield for underperforming teachers, allowing them to keep their jobs regardless of how poorly they treat students or how little they teach. Tenure is a broken system that prioritizes job security over student safety and learning.
Students around campus were asked about their experiences. Many came forward, describing stories that should never happen in a classroom.
One anonymous student recalled a teacher stealing food from a student’s hand and throwing it out the door in front of the class. This act received no disciplinary action, and the teacher continued their lesson.
Another student described how a teacher would not allow them to use their 504 plan, a legal document that provides accommodations for students with educational disabilities. When the student spoke to the teacher and the school board, the teacher was forced to accept the terms, but remained discontent about the topic.
One student was harassed by other students and talked to the teacher to try and resolve the issue, but the teacher refused to help the student and told him to fix his own problems. To the student, this showed that the teacher didn’t care about student safety and a good classroom environment.
“passing the trash” – transferring ineffective teachers to new classrooms, continuing to harm students’ futures. One student was taught by a teacher who failed to cover the class material, resulting in a very chaotic environment. The students weren’t taught enough curriculum during the class, and when it came to tests, students often shared answers because the content had not been adequately covered. This learning environment is unproductive and unacceptable. Teachers should be able to control their classroom, teach the material and prevent students from cheating.
In fact, some teachers rely on “busy work” or YouTube videos instead of engaging in the lessons, which can lead to surface-level learning that hurts the students. Students are left without the guidance and inspiration that great teachers provide, causing them to underperform, fall behind or not enjoy the class.
Yes, job security is important, but permanent job security without accountability is dangerous. Every other profession requires performance reviews and standards — why should teaching be different? Job security should be earned, not given.
Stricter evaluations wouldn’t punish all teachers; instead, they’d identify struggling teachers and offer them a chance to improve. Challenges like lack of support, personal issues or limited resources would be considered. However, if a teacher shows no progress despite support and feedback, it may become clear that they are not well suited to remain in the classroom. Giving teachers time to improve ensures fairness while maintaining high standards for education.
POLICY: All editorials are unsigned and have been approved by the majority of The Cub Bark staff.
These are just some examples of teachers actively harming students’ academic and emotional growth. Teachers under tenure have unacceptable behavior excused from punishment, causing students to endure shocking experiences that should not occur in a classroom. These teachers remain untouchable because firing a tenured teacher is such a long, expensive and draining process.
According to Innovate Public Schools, it can cost a district between $50,000 and $450,000 to conclude a dismissal case, whether the case wins or loses. Most schools cannot afford this process. Rather than addressing the problem, schools often resort to
A BARK to the USC mind challenge. Thanks for making a splash in mental health.
A BITE to spring, when April showers bring May AP tests. Ouch!
A BARK to the “all of the above” multiple choice option. We can always rely on you.
A BITE to group projects. Nothing builds teamwork like doing 99 percent of the work ourselves
Students can play a decisive role in pushing for this change. These unacceptable events need to be shared with counselors or trusted adults to make a change. Enough of these stories can spread awareness and prove that what’s happening in some classrooms is not okay.
Have an opinion regarding anything that appears in The Bark or in general? We encourage our readers to submit letters to the editor. Letters to The Bark should be 500 words or fewer, typed if possible and signed. They must be emailed to bark@redwoodbark.
A BARK to NYT Connections and Wordle. It’s the only thing we’re solving in math class.
A BITE to seasonal allergies. Nature’s way of saying: ‘Surprise! Here’s a never-ending sniffle!’
A BARK to senior trips. Nothing prepares us better for college than Ibiza!
A BITE to tests with stuff we’ve never seen. We guess the study guide was just for decoration
BARKS and BITES are the collective opinions of the BARK staff concerning relevant issues. BARKS are in praise of accomplishments, while BITES criticize decisions or events.
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Por Hayden Martay
Empezar la escuela secundaria puede dar miedo. Los pasillos abarrotados, las caras nuevas y los cursos exigentes suelen generar ansiedad. Para quienes además enfrentan una barrera del idioma, el desafío es aún mayor.
Magdalena Tum Mejía, estudiante de último año, enfrenta este reto directamente.
Cuando se mudó de Guatemala como hablante nativa de español, los obstáculos fueron mayores. No podía entender completamente a sus maestros ni hablar con sus compañeros de clase, y cada día se
convierte en una prueba de perseverancia. Sin embargo, como muchos estudiantes de inglés, llegó con ganas de aprender y desarrollarse académicamente. Con apoyo y resiliencia, Mejía está encontrando su lugar.
“Es un poco [difícil], porque no entiendo lo que dicen. Solo observo cómo lo hacen y yo sigo,” dijo Mejía.
Mejía atribuye a su maestra de Desarrollo del Idioma Inglés (ELD), Alison Do Carmo, quien ha hecho el ajuste más fácil. Tener una maestra bilingüe le ha ayudado a sentirse más cómoda.
“[Do Carmo] habla español. Estoy en una clase con ella para estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés,” dijo Mejía.
Además, hacer amigos en una escuela donde se habla principalmente inglés puede ser complicado debido a las barreras del idioma. Sin embargo, Mejía ha encontrado amabilidad entre sus compañeros.
“Sí, tengo [amigos]. Llevo casi cinco meses aquí,” dijo Mejía.
Todd Van Peursem, profesor bilingüe, tiene entre ocho y diez estudiantes hispanohablantes en sus clases este año escolar. Actualmente tiene a Mejía como
estudiante y destaca cómo los momentos de conexión que hacen son claves.
“Cada vez que los estudiantes se acercan a Magdalena, ella parece más feliz. Esa inclusión es poderosa,” dijo Van Peursem.
También cree que superar las barreras del idioma requiere esfuerzo mutuo.
“Se necesitan personas de mente abierta dispuestas a explorar lo desconocido. Usar cualquier pedacito de lenguaje para comunicarse puede construir un puente,” dijo.
Cathy Flores, directora sénior de Diversidad, Equidad, Inclusión y Pertenencia del Distrito, subraya la importancia de fomentar espacios de apoyo para estudiantes hispanohablantes nativos.
“Este rol tiene muchos aspectos. Una parte importante es organizar eventos estudiantiles que celebran su cultura,” explicó Flores.
Flores destaca programas como Latinos Unidos, un club que promueve la conexión cultural y el orgullo como claves para construir un entorno inclusivo.
“Brindar un espacio para la comunidad,
Por Gabriel Cavanagh
El cinco de mayo de 2025, millones de mexicanos celebrarán el Cinco de Mayo, una fiesta nacional dedicada a conmemorar la victoria de México contra el ejército francés en la Batalla de Puebla en 1862. Originalmente, el Cinco de Mayo era una celebración de la victoria, pero ahora es una celebración de la cultura mexicana. Esta celebración generalmente implica pasar tiempo con familiares y amigos, no es raro que las familias que comparten una mezcla de culturas mexicana y latinoamericana celebran el Cinco de Mayo juntas e incorporan una amplia gama de tradiciones. Durante el Cinco de Mayo, se cocina una gran variedad de alimentos.
En una entrevista con dos estudiantes que celebran el Cinco de Mayo, la estudiante de tercer año Joangel González compartió sus platos favoritos servidos durante el Cinco de Mayo.
“[Nuestra familia] elabora carne asada, que tiene carne recubierta de arroz, frijoles y tortillas. También comemos Fresas Con
Cremas, que son como fresas y crema,” González dijo.
Este Cinco de Mayo decidí cocinar y probar tanto la carne asada y fresca con cremas y probarlas por mí mismo. Primero cociné carne asada, que tardó unos 45 minutos en prepararse y servirse, y costó cerca de $15. No es muy extenuante para
preparar lo; los ingredientes son bistec, arroz español, frijoles negros y una mezcla de tomates, cebollas y ajo que se agregan encima después de cocinar el bistec, el arroz y los frijoles por separado. Si se cocina con el condimento adecuado, la carne asada puede ser un plato muy sabroso, ya que la mantequilla derretida
la sanación y el empoderamiento es esencial para fomentar el sentido de pertenencia,” dijo Flores.
También ofreció consejos a los estudiantes que enfrentan barreras lingüísticas en la escuela.
“Recuerda tus raíces. Sé auténtico. Busca adultos y comunidades donde te sientas conectado. Y no te achiques porque otros no entiendan tu cultura,” dijo Flores. El objetivo de Mejía es dominar el inglés. Estudia, usa Duolingo, y practica la conversación.
“Es estudiar más. Buscar programas en inglés para que pueda leer y también escribir,” dijo Mejía, comprometida a mejorar cada día.
La historia de Mejía demuestra la fortaleza de los estudiantes nativos de habla hispana. Con estudiantes como ella, el apoyo continuo de maestros, compañeros y familias asegura un camino inclusivo para futuras generaciones.
hmartay@redwoodbark.org
del bistec añade sabor extra al condimento. La carne asada es una comida muy completa, porque están presentes todos los principales grupos de alimentos: carne, cereales y verduras.
Más tarde, hice fresas con cremas, que me tomó alrededor de cinco minutos de preparación y costó $5. Todo lo que necesita es agregar alrededor de una taza de crema espesa (después de batirla durante treinta segundos), agregar leche condensada azucarada encima de la crema. Luego, agrega las fresas en rodajas. ¡Y estás listo para servir!
Las fresas con cremas son un auténtico postre, ya que el dulzor de la crema espesa combinada con fresas les confiere un sabor realmente rico. Definitivamente recomiendo cocinar ambos platos ya que son fáciles de preparar y son muy deliciosos.
By Alyssa Delsol and Soleil Matil Cub Reporters
“Drink this for glowing skin! Take this; it's good for your gut health!” Everyday, social media advertises bold health claims, promising fixes and easy life-changing results to teenagers. Nowadays, social media is more than just a way to stay connected with friends; it is a powerful marketing tool that influences everything from what we wear to how we exercise and eat.
Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have exploded with health and wellness trends, pushing products such as sea moss supplements, Coconut Cult yogurt and Bloom Greens onto teens. These products supposedly improve digestion, make your skin glow and increase energy levels. The real question is, are they backed up by science, or are they just trends?
Social media is filled with advertising, but brands now turn to influencers instead of traditional commercials to promote their products. These influencers are often young, fit and relatable to viewers. When an influencer with thousands or sometimes even millions of followers posts a video about an advertisement for an up-andcoming wellness product, it doesn’t take long for it to go viral.
Coconut Cult and Sea Moss are two health trends that have gained significant attention on social media. Coconut Cult is a probiotic-rich coconut yogurt brand that many claim supports gut health. At the same time, Sea Moss, a type of red algae, is often praised for its high mineral content and potential benefits such as improved digestion, skin health and immunity.
Caroline Strauss, a sophomore who started using Coconut Cult and Sea Moss after seeing them on TikTok, explained why she started taking them.
“I saw these products being used by all these health gym girl influencers, so I thought it would be good to try,” Strauss said.
Strauss also mentioned how she's been using Coconut Cult for around three months, seeing no drastic changes, and the results were not what she was promised by influencers.
According to an article from the University of Chicago Medicine website, Dr. Christopher Roxbury, a surgeon
at UChicago Medicine, has first hand experience with social media's powerful influence on health trends.
“I frequently have patients in the clinic asking me questions about things they saw online or on social media, and I have found that the information has often steered patients in the wrong direction,” Roxbury said.
This algorithm-driven environment has helped make health trends go viral, regardless of whether they are scientifically supported.
One of the most talked-about products on TikTok is Coconut Cult yogurt. It contains 50 billion Colony Forming Units (CFUs), in just a two-ounce serving— nearly 50 times more probiotics than regular yogurt. Fans claim it improves digestion, boosts energy and clears skin.
Senior Leila Acevedo was influenced by social media to try trending wellness products, decided to test Coconut Cult for herself after seeing it promoted by various influencers. Despite the promising advertisements, she didn’t notice a significant change in how she felt or looked.
“I was initially interested in using these products because of social media influence,” Acevedo said.
Caroline Strauss, like many teens, was influenced by the wave of TikTok videos promoting health products. Drawn in by claims of clearer skin and increased fitness, she decided to try Coconut Cult herself, hoping to see noticeable changes.
“I saw so many TikToks about it and the good side effects, even how it can make you fitter, so I thought it would be a good thing to try,” Strauss said.
Both Strauss and Acevedo highlight a growing trend: Teens are more likely to trust recommendations from influencers than professionals.
Acevedo started using Coconut Cult after seeing influencers talk about its benefits.
“I started using Coconut Cult around three weeks ago, but I haven’t been very consistent with using it, so I haven’t seen much of a noticeable difference,” Acevedo said.
While Sea Moss has some beneficial nutrients, the National Institutes of Health states that there is insufficient scientific research to back up most of the extreme
health claims seen online.
Bloom Nutrition, another famous TikTok brand, promises better digestion and claims to reduce bloating. However, according to a review published by Computer Network (CNET), a well-known tech and consumer product review site, the results may not live up to the hype.
“I can’t say for certain whether Bloom works. I didn’t see any changes in bloating,” the CNET review stated.
Furthermore, an article from the University of Chicago named “Health information on TikTok: The good, the bad and the ugly,” stated, “A major issue with these viral health trends is that dietary supplements are unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration, this means producers are responsible for their ingredients, which may not be tested or approved by health professionals.”
Despite this, teens still might buy products based on social media hype. Strauss admitted she finds herself drawn to products she sees online.
“Social media influences all my purchases. It’s awful, honestly, but I always like to see what the hype over certain products is and if they meet their huge expectations,” Strauss said.
The pressure for teens to keep up with wellness trends, even when the products are expensive or lack scientific support, is a significant issue and challenge. While some products offer benefits, others may not live up to their claims. Experts suggest
that teens do their research before investing in trendy health products.
Jessica Carter, a registered dietitian and teen wellness advocate, emphasizes the importance of critical thinking when it comes to viral health trends.
“There’s nothing wrong with trying new products, but it’s important to be mindful of marketing tactics. Not every product that goes viral is necessary or beneficial,” Carter said.
For those looking to improve their health, simple habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep remain the most effective solutions.
Social media has undeniably changed how teens discover and purchase wellness products. While influencers can introduce followers to new products, the pressure to buy expensive items often outweighs the benefits. Do your research, listen to your body and remember that just because something is popular on TikTok doesn’t mean it's worth your money.
While wellness trends continue to evolve, teens must balance curiosity with critical thinking. True wellness isn't about what is trending; it's about what works for you.
By Claire Johnson, Millie Matthews Cub Reporters
Throughout the year, sometime around midnight, while the rest of Fresno sleeps, farmer Sonia Rojas begins loading her truck full of Cara Cara oranges in the winter and peaches and nectarines when the weather warms. Rojas and her family drive for hours before arriving at the Marin Civic Center just as the sun rises over the hills.
The journey is tiring, but the joy she gets from working at the farmers market and creating an enjoyable stand for her customers makes it all worth it.
“I like [the produce stand] to look nice, and for the people to be comfortable, happy and dancing to [my] music,” Rojas said.
markets is their broader impact, offering benefits that extend beyond the consumer and producer relationship to promote sustainable practices.
Joe Stewart, the teacher of Sustainable
to ensure that her customers enjoy the experience, no matter the sacrifice. They have built a reputation and community out of this lifelong experience, one that they are proud of and committed to maintaining.
For Rojas, farming and selling produce at the farmers market is much more than a job—it’s a family and a way of life. For sellers and customers alike, farmers markets provide not only a community with a network of connections, but a source of local and fresh produce. Farmers markets and local farming have a unique way of bringing people together—by spreading joy, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and providing opportunities for small farmers to boost local economies.
However, farmers markets are often underappreciated, as many people don’t fully recognize the benefits of local produce compared to commercial options.
The Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on educating people about farmers markets and is working to expand both its scale and reach.
Zoe Kalbag, one of AIM’s market managers in charge of organizing the Sunday Marin Farmers’ Market, said she believes that people must understand just how impactful farmers markets are.
“Food is such an important part of our lives, how we grow and how we think… Food is medicine. [It is] important to know where your food is coming from and also to value those people who are growing and producing it,” Kalbag said.
An often undervalued aspect of farmers
it,” Stewart said.
Kalbag felt similarly, expressing how transparency in farmers markets is an important part of the relationship.
“What people are paying for here is that relationship with their farmer and knowing where their food comes from, knowing that it’s organic, and knowing the whole process behind coming up with their food,” Kalbag said.
However, the true value of farmers markets extends beyond sustainability and higher quality produce, as they foster a sense of community and strengthen local economies.
For Sonia and Ramon Rojas, who have been vendors at the Sunday Marin Farmers’ Market for 32 years, farming has become their passion and life. The couple founded the Rojas Family Farms in 2010, a family-operated farm based out of Fresno. For Sonia, the most rewarding part of it all is the meaningful relationships that she has built over the years.
“My regular customers come in; the kids and the family, for generations and generations. I’m very lucky because every week I see my customers; my family,” said Rojas.
Rojas works to foster this community, which brings joy and purpose to her work. With music playing and samples being handed out, there is never a shortage of smiles. One of Sonia’s main goals is
The Rojas farm, along the countless other family farms found at the Sunday Marin Farmers’ Market, not only cultivates the local community, but the economy as well. These farms once formed the backbone of rural economies in the United States but have been disappearing during recent decades, being replaced by large and industrialized farms. The 2022 AGAmerica Agriculture Census found that the number of U.S. family farms is decreasing and has fallen below two million, the lowest since 1850.
When these farms disappear, so do jobs. According to a research study conducted by the UC Davis Agricultural Economics Team in 2016, for every $1 million in revenue from smaller farms, almost 32 local jobs are generated, whereas the same amount of revenue from the larger growers creates only 10.5 jobs locally. However, the value of small farms goes beyond economies— they also play a key role in shaping how we grow, source and consume our food.
“We’re certified by an organization called CCOF, and we also follow what is known as bio intensive farming, which has eight main principles. They’re all organic based, but the main ones include making sure the soil is well prepared as it allows for roots to grow deep, composting and growing plants as close together as possible so you can reduce land impacts,” Stewart said.
Beyond the curriculum and certifications, recognizing the impact of local farmers isn’t just about supporting their work, it’s about uplifting the connected environment that these farms provide.
There are many different ways to support farmers markets and all the benefits they bring. Kalbag offers a way for Redwood students to become a part of this community through education and connection with local farmers.
“The market itself is a great opportunity to have those conversations… I would encourage people, when they’re coming to the market, to reach out to the farmers, ” Kalbag said.
Food is such an important part of our lives, how we grow and how we think.
Zoe Kalbag, AIM’s market manager
As Kalbag previously noted, knowing whether your food is organic is essential. It offers potential health benefits by reducing pesticide exposure, increasing nutritional value and promoting a more sustainable food system. Stewart teaches these principles in his SustAg curriculum, focusing on agriculture in the long run.
“The focus of this course is finding ways to do [agriculture] that are sustainable, and that are going to be allowing us to do agriculture ten years from now, 20 years from now, 30 years from now and beyond,” Stewart said.
The vendors at the Sunday Marin Farmers’ Market, although not required by AIM to be certified by the California Certified Organic Federation (CCOF), many are. A CCOF seal indicates that the food was grown and produced in compliance with federal organic standards. Stewart’s SustAg course is also certified by CCOF and incorporates its standards into the program’s mission.
AIM also created educational opportunities for students from kindergarten through high school to learn more about local farms and how to support them.
“It’s all about learning about the food system…I think this is just a great place to ask what [farmers’] experiences are and to learn more about your food from them,” Kalbag said.
Supporting this deeper connection between people, place and food is exactly what Stewart highlights when teaching his course and when reflecting on the broader impact of farmers markets.
“[Farmers markets] create a nice environment where you can go and hang out on a sunny day and buy food, and that’s important as well. That’s part of sustainability as well. Sustainability isn’t just the environment, you also need to consider economic issues and societal issues as well,” Stewart said.
bark@redwoodbark.org
By: Zander Hakimi Cub Reporter
Many people within marginalized communities struggle with questions when applying for jobs. Boxes labeled “Black” and “White” stare back, and the unsettling thought lingers — could choosing one over the other influence whether one gets the job?
However this isn't just a feeling. The discrimination of applicants based on race was documented in a 2020 study by sociologist Lincoln Quillian, published in the New York Times. The study found that white employers contacted presumed white candidates 9.5 percent more often than presumed nonwhite candidates with equivalent qualifications. These findings suggest white candidates have an advantage over non-white candidates, solely because of their race.
for inclusion and diverse classroom conversations, DEIB emphasizes “belonging.” It focuses on how minority students feel in their environment and how they can be equitably supported.
Cathy Flores, the principal of San Andreas High School and senior director of DEIB for the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD), is in charge of the district's initiatives.
DEIB is having racial consciousness that allows for you to see the ways your bias comes into play.
Cathy Flores, Principal of San Andreas High School
To combat this, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies have been implemented in offices, corporations and schools to promote equality and fairness in all aspects of operations, ensuring that qualifications are prioritized over demographics. According to Workplace Fairness, Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a workplace including, race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. Equity means ensuring fair treatment, access and opportunities for all employees and recognizing different individuals may need different levels of support. Inclusion is the practice of creating a respectful environment where all employees feel valued.
In schools, districts often implement diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) policies to ensure that all students receive equal support from teachers and administrators. While DEI sets standards
“One of the main things [the district does] is elevating the racial content consciousness of our staff and the cultural competency of staff. The most important aspect of understanding DEIB is having racial consciousness that allows for you to see the ways your bias comes into play,” Flores said. Designing curriculum and classes, training for teachers and social consciousness programs, like Stop and Learns, are all part of Flores’ efforts. Additionally, understanding white dominant culture and one's own implicit biases — and how it might impact teaching — is also essential to addressing bias in the classroom.
TUHSD measures the success of its DEIB initiatives by collecting data from student response forms, such as the Youth Truth and California Healthy Kids surveys, which are administered annually across all grade levels. The district analyzes students’ self-reported happiness and feelings of safety across demographics to assess and improve DEIB programs.
On Jan. 20, 2025, President Donald Trump’s first day back in office, he signed Executive Order 14151, ending “radical and wasteful” government DEI programs. The order directly responded to Executive Order 13985, issued in 2021 by President Joe Biden, to advance racial equity and support for minorities in federal positions. Trump’s order required the removal of all DEI programs from the federal government, including military and federal
offices. The executive order claimed that the Biden administration forced “illegal and immoral” discrimination programs — such as DEI — into all aspects of government operations.
Since returning to office, Trump has opposed DEI policies implemented under the Biden administration, prompting widespread backlash. Companies like Target, often credited as a leading advocate for implementations of DEI policies, have since begun retracting their initiatives.
In response, many are voicing their support for DEI, including a student who wished to remain anonymous, referred to here as Lily.
“[Target is] rolling back their diversity and inclusion efforts. This doesn't align with my morals,” Lily said.
Lily joined a 40-day boycott against Target that began on March 5, 2025, led by Pastor Jamal-Harrison Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia. The boycott, which coincided with the start of Lent, was a protest against Target’s cut of DEI initiatives.
While as prevalent as DEI is today, the idea of implementing policies to promote diversity, date back to the Civil Rights Movement.
In practice, institutions can implement programs such as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) which are voluntary, employee-led networks that promote inclusion and aim to make employees feel valued and supported. According to an article by Kalina Bryant, a contributor to Forbes, ERGs are a vital tool in achieving [DEI] goals, which date back to the 1960s. ERGs have evolved to become integral components of corporate DEI efforts, benefiting employer and employee. Another practice that institutions implement are blind resume reviews. According to Forbes Council Member, John Feldmann, many employers struggle with how to set aside the biases that are inherent to the hiring process and hire employees, while contributing to a diverse workforce. One solution that some employers are exploring is the practice of blind hiring. This means finding ways to mask applicants ethnicity, gender, age and educational background during the review stage.
Other practices like standardized interviews ensure that all candidates are
asked the same questions, creating a more equitable evaluation process. The Trump administration’s revocation of DEI initiatives has sparked nationwide debate, as well as leading to impacts within local communities.
“I think the part that's most disheartening to me is that DEIB has become weaponized and portrayed as something that is negative or harmful, or that it's stripping white people of something — [which is] not true,” Flores said.
Opponents of DEI use a new phrase to describe DEI policies calling it “reverse discrimination.” This term promotes the idea that minorities gain an unfair advantage over non-minorities when it comes to applying for jobs or promotions due to DEI initiatives. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis argues that DEI is a ploy to force ideological conformity, claiming the acronym should stand for “discrimination, exclusion and indoctrination.”
However, DEI initiatives are intended to reduce systemic racism and equalize opportunities for all.
“It's incredibly [hard] to hear [all the policies] being denied, canceled and revoked because [DEI is] an effort to help level the playing field,” Flores said.
In today’s political climate, buzzwords like DEI are often used to criticize institutions or the political left, used as a single term to rally behind without discussing the nuance behind it.
Junior Aaron Ask believes that misunderstanding often fuels opposition to DEI policies.
“People don't necessarily understand why [DEI] programs are in place,” Ask said. “[They] just see it as [minorities] getting unfair advantages and not counterbalance.”
In 2021, DEI policies were implemented in schools, workplaces and
well-known companies like Apple, CocaCola and Costco. However, following its official removal from the federal government, major companies such as Google and PepsiCo began removing DEI policies starting in January of 2025.
On the other hand, some companies — including Costco — have retained their policies. Regardless, DEI remains a divisive topic. According to a March 2025 poll by the National Broadcasting Company, 49 percent of voters believe DEI programs should be eliminated, while 48 percent support keeping them.
With this new wave of anti-DEI sentiment, educators fear school districts will be pressured to cut programs due to new federal mandates. This includes practices like Stopand-Learns, which educate students and teachers alike about bias and diversity.
“There's so many detrimental impacts to a future where [DEI] continues to be negated or pushed aside. The most important thing for students and for people is their story and their background. That's their identity. So to remove and push [DEI] away is an extension of ignoring someone's identity,” Flores said.
Flores believes that as long as diversity is seen as a threat to those in power, demographic representation will be ignored. While the effects of DEI removal are felt nationwide, repercussions are less visible in Marin.
“I do live a fairly fortunate life. I've not had to see the effects that [the Trump] administration’s new actions have taken on everyday people, but it's a matter of time, because this is such a far reaching [topic],” Ask said.
Regardless of the Trump administration’s opposition, many educators and administrators continue to support DEI and remain dedicated to their work.
Flores feels that her job, as well as the continuation of DEIB implementation is still important work. But conflicting federal orders, legal resistance from judges, and varying state policies create a confusing and difficult environment to navigate.
Despite growing opposition at the federal level, TUHSD remains committed to their DEIB initiatives.
“I am still showing up dedicated to [working on DEIB policies], and I know I’m taking a risk [by doing so],” Flores said. “But I'm willing to take that risk.”
zhakimi@redwoodbark.org
By Claire Johnson Cub Reporter
From windswept coastal trails to towering redwoods and magnificent mountain peaks, Marin is a wild tapestry of nature waiting to be explored. Hiking is a staple part of life in California, especially here in Marin. With that in mind, I set out to hike three varied trails that took me along beautiful scenery to see how they compare in both beauty and challenge.
Beginner: Tennessee Point Trail in Rodeo Beach
If you’re looking for a simple yet breathtaking hike, the Tennessee Point Trail is the perfect fit. Snaking along the coastline of Rodeo Beach, this trailhead is short but sweet. This hike contains the perfect balance of views and tranquility, spanning just under two miles in total distance, making it the ideal coastal escape. Expect to see slight elevation changes along a well-traveled path that’s easy to follow, with frequent hikers and scenic outlooks. According to the Hiking Project, the Tennessee Point Trail ranks #14 in the Marin Headlands. This is a great beginner-friendly hike, with hidden side trails for those seeking more of a challenge.
Intermediate: Bald Hill in Phoenix Lake
Get ready to feel it in your calves after this one. Starting at Phoenix Lake in Ross, this four-mile out-andback trail is a steep climb from the start. The first half is all uphill—and the descent is just as challenging. Be sure to pack plenty of water and sturdy hiking shoes for this trek. The summit, nicknamed Baldy, is a beloved local favorite for its striking panoramic views of the Bay Area and calming atmosphere. The effort to reach it is well worth
every step. Due to it being a well-known gem, parking can often be difficult, especially on weekends. Baldy is uniquely accessible from several Marin communities via the lengthy Worn Springs Fire Road. Ranked 4.6 out of 5 stars by AllTrails, this hike features lakeside views and a vibrant mix of local wildflowers and wildlife, including the iconic California Poppy.
With a ranking of 4.8 out of 5 stars by AllTrails, make sure you’re prepared to carve out an entire day for this unforgettable adventure. Beginning at the Palomarin trailhead in Point Reyes, it snakes through towering Redwoods, inland lakes and stunning coastline cliffs. At 13.7 miles in total distance, Alamere Falls is one of Marin’s most challenging yet rewarding hikes. The first half of the loop takes you to Wildcat Beach. Then you’ll walk along the shoreline before reaching the iconic tidefall waterfall, which flows from the cliff above out to the Pacific Ocean.
This popular hike is often crowded, but here’s a local secret: you can shave off almost five miles by taking a secret trail that veers off around the four-mile mark. Though not recommended by the National Park Service, this unmarked trail leads to the cliff above the beach, offering views of an additional two smaller waterfalls. Be cautious this trail is extremely steep with crumbling rocks, ticks and poison oak. The beach and large waterfall are also accessible via this route by descending a remarkably steep path of loose rocks along the far side of this viewpoint. Alamere Falls is a must-do hike, and this shortcut trims the journey down to just about nine miles.
cjohnson@redwoodbark.org
By Elizabeth Hopkins Cub Reporter
When sleep isn’t an option, it’s often easiest to turn to a quick boost from a familiar, brightly colored can of chemicals. Whether you are cramming for a test or just trying to stay awake during your first period class, energy drinks will be your buzz buddy. These carbonated and heavily caffeinated drinks are the go-to fuel for students to power through their next big assignment. I tried four energy drinks and rated them on flavor, price and energy boost.
Ranking first place is Clean Energy, which markets organic and good-for-you artificial energy. I tried the blackberry flavor and loved the subtle hint of fruitiness with just the right amount of sweetness. It was refreshing, and the sparkling aspect balanced out the
flavor, not making it overpowering. With 160 milligrams (mg) of caffeine from green tea, the drink gives you a steady uplift throughout the day without facing a crash. However, one can of this fizzy energy will cost you $2.75, the second priciest in the ratings.
Up next, in second place, is the Alani Nu Cherry Slush drink. This can of buzz is perfect for any candy lover or person with a sweet tooth. With a mild fizz, this drink tastes more similar to a Starburst than a can of fuel. With 200 mg of caffeine, I felt energized and, at times, a little shaky. This Alani energy drink is about $2.50 per can, priced right in the middle of the reviewed drinks.
Taking third place is Celsius Tropical Vibe, a mix of pineapple and starfruit. This drink tasted like a vacation in a can and was very refreshing. The citrusy and tangy flavor provides a hint of sweetness and the perfect amount of carbonation. With an amazing flavor, the drink was very tasty, but with 200 mg of caffeine, it left me feeling extremely shaky throughout the day. Costing anywhere from $2 to $2.25, it is the cheapest option among the rankings.
In last place is the Red Bull Pink Edition energy drink. With a combination of strawberry and apricot flavors, the drink was refreshing but overwhelmingly sweet. An aftertaste of artificial strawberry and apricot felt as though I was drinking straight medicine. To add, the sugar crash after I had the drink left me feeling extremely jittery and a little anxious. Interestingly enough, there was only 114 mg of caffeine in the Red Bull. For one can that will give you the jitters, it can cost $2.50 to $3, the priciest in the ratings.
Whether you’re grinding through homework or just trying to get through the school day, when it comes to energy drinks, there is always a drink that fits the vibe. Whether you're team tropical, candy-sweet or refreshing, there is an option for you.
By Jonah Kizer Cub Reporter
Mama’s Luncheonette offers delicious breakfast burritos and wraps in a welcoming environment. Located in downtown Mill Valley, it is a perfect spot to grab a quick breakfast or lunch.
Upon entering, diners are greeted by their welcoming staff. After ordering at the counter, customers may choose to eat inside at one of their booths, tables or outside at their streetside seating. Those in a hurry can call ahead and grab their meal togo. The best part of Mama’s Luncheonette, however, is the food. Their breakfast is offered until 11 a.m., serving their world-class breakfast burritos. These hearty burritos come with tater tots, scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese and avocado, with the option of adding either brisket or bacon. These burritos will keep you full for hours.
For lunch, which is served until 2:30 p.m. do not miss their Chopped Chicken Caesar Wrap. It is prepared with juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken, fresh romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese and a creamy caesar dressing wrapped up in a soft tortilla, making the mouth water at first glance. If the Chicken Caesar isn’t for you, they also have a Chicken Tikka Masala wrap, a Wild Mushroom Wrap, and a Braised Lamb Wrap. For sides, try their home-made Paprika Chips or their Za-atar fries.
Mama’s Luncheonette is a reasonably priced, delightful new restaurant with delicious food and a cozy ambience.
By Sofia Yanni Cub Reporter
So Close To What: Tate McRae
Canadian-born singer Tate McRae has captured the hearts of listeners with her emotive pop melodies and raw lyricism in “So Close To What.” Since she first gained recognition with her viral hit “You Broke Me First,” McRae has quickly risen to stardom in the pop music scene.
McRae’s third album, “So Close to What,” surpassed expectations. If you’re in the mood for an upbeat track, “Revolving Door” is a must-listen. "bloodonmyhands,” is a fun track with an unforgettable energy, featuring Flo Milli (Tamia Monique Carter). McRae also features The Kid LAROI on “I Know Love.” “Dear God” and “Like I Do” are some other favorites from the album. “So Close To What?” More like so close to buying her concert tickets!
MAYHEM: Lady Gaga
American singer Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known as Lady Gaga, just released her seventh studio album, “MAYHEM,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart this year. Gaga achieved international stardom with her 2008 single “Just Dance,” along with her 2008 debut album, “Fame.” Gaga’s song “Shallow” made her the first woman to win big music awards in 2019. By far, the best track on “MAYHEM” is “Abracadabra,” which debuted at the top of the Billboard Hot Dance/Pop Songs chart and has had 13.7 million streams, 10,000 downloads and 1.3 million radio audience impressions since it was released. Whatever magic Gaga infused into “Abracadabra” is working.
By Bella Garbo Cub Reporter
Marin Country Mart, located in Larkspur, has every food option you could need. From bagels to crepes, it is a spectacular place for those who want to grab a quick bite when going off campus for lunch.
Loveski Deli offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and bagels. The shop is in the parking lot outside the Marin Country Mart. The atmosphere is very down-to-earth, modern and contains various seating options. Although its menu is pricier, Loveski’s avocado and cucumber bagel did not disappoint. It was stuffed with cucumbers and avocado, while paired with an herb cream cheese and sprouts that balanced it well. Within five minutes of ordering, the bagel was already in front of me and is an absolute must-try.
Souvla is a modern take on Greek cuisine located inside Marin Country Mart. As for the food, Souvla has an extensive menu including salads, sandwiches, and
$ome $exy $ongs 4 U: PartyNextdoor and Drake
Canadian singer Jahron Anthony Brathwaite, known professionally as PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Canadian rapper Aubrey Drake Graham, known professionally as Drake, released their collaborative album, “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U,” on Feb. 14. This album blends R&B and hip-hop. According to data from a March Bark survey, 55 percent of students self-reported they enjoyed the album, “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U,” the most, which was the highest percentage out of the four albums presented as options. If you’re looking for a smooth yet catchy track that perfectly embodies the album, I highly recommend “NOKIA.” The song's infectious beat and laid-back vibe make it stand out. Another song that stands out is “Gimme a Hug.” The variety of songs creates a cohesive listening experience that leaves the listener satisfied.
I Said I Love You First: Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Singer, actress and cosmetics entrepreneur, Selena Marie Gomez co-wrote her fourth studio album with producer Benjamin Joseph Levin, known as Benny Blanco, on March 21, 2025. In 2019, Selena Gomez came out with the single “Lose You To Love Me,” which quickly became number one on the Billboard 100 chart for its raw emotion and introspective lyrics.
“I Said I Love You First” is a personal collaboration between Gomez and Blanco. One of the highlights from this album is “Call Me When You Break Up,” which features songwriter Gracie Abrams. This track balances vulnerability with a melody
syanni@redwoodbark.org
fantastic dessert options for all Greekfood lovers. The Greek fries with “Granch” (Greek yogurt mixed with ranch) combined the nostalgic taste of a regular french fry with a sour, but sweet taste of Greek yogurt. Souvla’s Greek yogurt soft serve with baklava crumbles was the perfect serving size for a healthy dessert. The pricing was very affordable and it’s a great snack to grab on the go!
The newest addition to Marin Country Mart’s restaurants is Buvette du Marais. This French-inspired restaurant is located on the far side of the shopping center by the recently added LoveShackFancy boutique. Although Buvette du Marais is also pricier, their food is incredibly fresh, and their famous crepes are made right before your eyes! The atmosphere is quite Parisian, with quaint accents and a laidback vibe. Although very large, the Nutella crepe did not have as much Nutella as expected but was still rich in sweet flavor. Buvette du Marais was a great experience but is more of a sit-down restaurant than a grab-and-go place.
With plenty of options and excellent service, Marin Country Mart’s restaurants have something for everyone and should be added to Redwood students' lunch menu. Overall, Souvla was my favorite because of the variety of foods and excellent service. The fun and exciting environment was challenging to match and is an absolute must when coming to Marin Country Mart. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quick and easy bite to grab on your lunch break, you can't go wrong with Loveski Deli, considering how efficient they are!
By Beatrice Nass Cub Reporter
Every May, as the Advanced Placement (AP) tests approach, the big questions emerge. How do I study? How much do I study? Where do I even start? Google may have general answers to these questions, but how does Google know the best way for you to get a five? Well, it doesn’t. Fortunately, students who’ve already taken the AP tests have tips to share.
Sydney Middleton, a multi-sport junior athlete, earned a five on the AP World History exam last May. Middleton did hours of in-class review and began studying outside of class about a week before the test.
“Definitely plan your [study] time [in advance]. I sectioned off chapters every day. If you’re trying to do it all in one or two days, you’re not going to [complete an] entire course. Try to plan what [you’ll be] studying on what day,” Middleton said.
Senior Annabelle Kilgore had similar success, earning a five on the AP World History exam and a four on both the AP Biology and AP Spanish Language and Culture tests.
While Kilgore’s classes had in-class review, she began studying at home a little less than a month before the tests.
“I’ll start doing [light] review three weeks in advance and then heavy review and practice two weeks before,” Kilgore said.
Test takers also recommend figuring out what methods make you the most productive in order to be fully prepared. For Middleton’s AP World History exam, creating a visual timeline was the key to her success.
“I’m [a] visual [learner], and making big poster boards [and timelines] helps me. That doesn’t work for everyone. Find what works for you,” Middleton said.
Kilgore uses multiple techniques when preparing for the tests.
“I love doing practice tests because they show me what I know and what I need to improve on. I also love watching review videos,” Kilgore said.
The stress of AP exams causes most students to cram the night before, but experts argue it’s better to prioritize sleep. According to a Ted-Ed video by Anna Rothschild, sleep is the time when your brain takes all the information it’s learned and creates connections. If you stay up late, your brain might retain simple facts, but will lack crosscutting concept skills that are important for AP tests.
Middleton makes sure she gets everything done throughout the day so she’s not up past 10:30 p.m. She’s
learned she doesn’t work well late at night and prioritizes sleep.
“I don’t function on less than seven hours of sleep, which is why I start studying right when I get home from school. Once I’ve been studying for four hours, if I [study] for an hour more, nothing good comes from that. If I go to bed and wake up 45 minutes earlier, it’s way more productive,” Middleton said.
Kilgore shares a similar opinion that getting a full night of sleep is the best thing you can do the night before an AP test.
“The night before an AP test, at that point, there’s not a lot more you can retain. [I] go to bed when I feel tired [and] try to get to sleep by 10 p.m. [at the latest],” Kilgore said.
Whether you follow the study techniques recommended by Middleton, Kilgore or even Google, the key to success is finding techniques that work for you. Make a plan and stick to it. Good luck Giants!
bnass@redwoodbark.org
By Rosstin Pouradib Cub Reporter
When it comes time to buckle down and study for a quiz, class final or homework, every student has a strategy for staying focused and energized. Whether it’s the crunch of something salty or the sweet satisfaction of a sugar kick, snacks play a huge role in fueling study sessions. However, not all snacks are created equal when it comes to taste, health or ability to keep you focused.
To determine the best study snacks, three key factors were considered: taste, nutritional value and convenience. A good study snack should be enjoyable without distraction, provide steady energy without causing a sugar crash and be easy to grab between pages of notes. According to data from a March Bark survey, we compiled the top three study snacks that students turn to most often. Crunchy, salty and incredibly satisfying, chips are the most popular snack choice among students with 44 votes. From classic Lays and Doritos to spicy Takis and Trader Joe’s Chili Lime Chips, the variety of flavors makes them a go-to option. While not the healthiest choice, chips are convenient and offer a satisfying crunch that helps keep students alert.
Beloved for their cheesy flavor and bite-sized convenience, Goldfish crackers rank second among students’ favorite study snacks with 20 votes. Their mild taste and airy texture make them an excellent option for long study sessions, as they provide a steady source of energy without overwhelming the taste buds. Plus, they’re relatively mess-free, making them perfect for snacking while flipping through notes.
A lighter yet equally satisfying snack, popcorn, is the third most popular choice among students with 19 votes. Whether buttered, lightly salted or flavored, popcorn offers a balance between taste and health benefits. Popcorn is high in fiber, low in calories (when air-popped) and provides a good crunch without the grease of traditional chips. Popcorn is also easy to portion, making it a great snack to keep energy levels steady during long study sessions.
While the top three snacks dominated the rankings, there are other popular choices that deserve an honorable mention including:
Candy (15 votes) – A quick sugar boost for short bursts of energy.
Pretzels (11 votes) – A salty, crunchy chip alternative. Fruit (11 votes) – A natural and nutritious option for lasting energy.
Oreos, Cheez-Its and Chocolate (6 votes) – Sweet and savory treats that provide a moment of indulgence between study breaks.
Choosing the right study snack can make a big difference in focus and productivity. While chips, Goldfish, and popcorn are the top choices, the best snack for studying depends on personal preference and nutritional needs. Whether you crave something salty, sweet or crunchy, fueling your brain with the right snacks can help you power through even the most prolonged study sessions.
rpouradib@redwoodbark.org
By Aria Sreba Cub Reporter
The varsity girls’ lacrosse team is dominating this season with an impressive start. As of April 15, they hold a 10-3 overall winning record and are undefeated in league games 4-0, improving their national ranking by over 80 places since last year to number 34. Senior team captains Sadie Hann and Presley Pewitt are leading their team to success, highlighting the role of positivity in their leadership.
“[We are] trying to keep everybody in a positive headspace. A lot of people get into their heads, and it affects their playing. Keeping the team’s energy up is a big role as captains, and our coaches also look to us to keep everybody in a positive mindset,” Hann said.
Head coach Lauren Yee emphasizes the importance of growth and preparation throughout the season as the key to success. Yee encourages her players to use their
early games as opportunities to improve their skills before the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) and North Coast Section (NCS) games.
“A lot of the time, you have to go through hard games to figure out not just your weaknesses but what motivates you, what pushes you to the next level and ultimately, do you rise to the competition? Those are all great experiences for us and we use that as fuel to help us get to the MCAL championship and then hopefully the NCS,” Yee said.
The girls’ lacrosse team is confident about winning this year's MCAL and NCS titles, as Hann and other team members have seen great improvement in themselves individually and as a group.
“I've definitely seen improvement in my lacrosse skills throughout the years and the relationships that I've built with my teammates have been really special,” Hann said.
by Aria Sreba
Hann, Pewitt and Yee believe the improvement from this year comes from the dedication, hard work and exceptional performance of the starting lineup, along with the emergence of star players like freshman Rose Mueller and sophomore Claire Johnson. Mueller has stood out due to her strong performance across multiple positions, and Johnson stood out because of her dedication and work ethic this season.
“[Mueller as] a freshman, you'd think maybe she’s a little bit timid, a little bit scared, a little bit reserved, but the kid just goes out and plays lacrosse, and she does it with a smile on her face,” Yee said. “One of the big shining stars for us has been Johnson, not just for what she can do on the offensive side, but when we need help in the midfield. She's all over it, and she's so calm and composed that in frantic moments, she’s someone you can lean on.”
Despite their extraordinary efforts,
the girls' undefeated streak at the start of the season was broken by Sacred Heart Prep with a score of 4-12 on March 15. However, the team is confident they will reclaim themselves and rebuild their impressive record with more wins to come until the end of the season.
Keeping the team’s energy up is a big role as captains.
Sadie Haan, Senior
ariasreba@redwoodbark.org
By Olen Johnson Cub Reporter
The boys’ varsity lacrosse team is a prestigious program that has grown and developed over the past decade. The culture that exists today was built through the dedication and hard work of coaches and players, detailed game plans, late-night film sessions and demanding off-season captains’ practices.
Neil Butterfield, a former Division II college lacrosse player and Division I
college coach, is stepping up to continue the program's legacy.
Butterfield has been a coach at Redwood for 12 years, working as a junior varsity coach for three years and as an assistant varsity coach for nine years. 2025 marks Butterfield’s thirteenth year coaching at Redwood and his first year as the head varsity coach.
A year ago, Butterfield was working closely with the previous coach, Blake Atkins, and did not anticipate being given the head coaching job.
“If you told me 12 months ago that I was going to be the head coach here, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Butterfield said.
Even with this unexpected change, Butterfield is tackling the responsibility of being a head coach and working towards a great season.
“The main difference between this year and last year is now I have to deal with offfield administrative responsibilities and hiring new staff,” Butterfield said.
Butterfield believes this team has potential, setting high hopes to make it far into the postseason.
However, one major challenge jumps forward for Butterfield. This year's team has less experience than previous teams he's coached. Last year's team had 14 seniors and lost important players like Jake Vasquez, Eddie Lin and Jackson Lesher who were USA Lacrosse All-Americans.
That’s always the goal, to get a banner hanging in that gym.
Neil Butterfield, Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach
“Once our guys get some more varsity experience and a better feel for what it’s like on the field, that should help us become a better team,” Butterfield said.
The sentiment is shared with players on the team as well. Jack Anderson, a three-year varsity player and team captain, shared his thoughts.
“We have a lot of guys on this team who barely played last year; inexperience is something that probably hurts us the most,” Anderson said.
Players continue to stay optimistic this season with their great team chemistry and high morale.
Jackson Gurvich is a senior on the team and varsity captain.
“This year I feel like the team has better chemistry. Last year, we had multiple
teammates who were going to play in college and they would get a little carried away with their success. This year I feel that we play better as a team,” Gurvich said.
Under Coach Butterfield this season, the team faces new challenges stemming from their lack of experience compared to last year. Still, the team is committed to working hard on-and-off the field with hopes of earning a championship banner to hang in the gym by the end of the season.
“That’s always the goal–to get a banner hanging in that gym: MCAL, NCS and CIF,” Butterfield said.
By Madeleine Wagner Cub Reporter
In the fast-paced game of water polo, where every pass and every splash can turn the tide of the game, one player stands out. Sophomore Maddox McClellan has already begun crafting a lasting legacy in the pool with his remarkable talent. As a dual athlete who plays varsity water polo and varsity swim, McClellan spends every day in the pool.
McClellan made the boys’ varsity water polo team in his freshman year and rode this wave of success into his sophomore year, receiving Marin County Athletic League second-team All-League honors, as well as second-team Division One North Coast Section.
With big goals and relentless drive, McClellan is focused on taking his team to the next level. His talent earned him backto-back selections to the Olympic Development Program, placing fourth in the country as a sophomore in the 2007-2008 age group.
“I was playing with seniors all of a sudden, and they were all bigger than me, so I had to adapt and figure out how to play well and be able to beat them with speed and [game intelligence] instead of size and strength,” McClellan said.
To do this, McClellan was diligent and trained any time he could, and his effort did not go unnoticed. Senior co-captain of the boys’ varsity water polo team, Sawyer Goldberg, acknowledged McClellan’s determination.
“He was at every morning practice we had; he is super disciplined and always showing up,” Goldberg said.
While McClellan has become a stronger player, he has had to persevere through ups and downs in his career, such as learning how to handle the pressure of big games. McClellan has a routine before all of his games to be able to perform at the highest level.
Your character is number one on your legacy and how people remember you.
Maddox McClellan, sophomore
McClellan’s Sleepy Hollow Aquatics club coach, Matt Swanson, acknowledged McClellan's valuable contribution to the team. McClellan didn’t become an incredible water polo athlete overnight; he put in a great deal of work and training to start achieving his goals. Swanson has been a significant mentor for him since he started playing water polo.
“What Swanson does is he knows every single kid individually, and he adapts them, making them the best player they can be and I've always looked up to him,” McClellan said.
However, earning a spot on the varsity team hasn’t come without relentless dedication and hard work in the pool.
“I visualize for ten minutes, it's a form of meditation. I was taught how to visualize by the national team’s coaches, which is a strategy that all the high-level water polo players do before a game. You think about what's going to happen in that game and visualize the game in your head,” McClellan said.
This method of getting ready for games has proven successful for McClellan. Freshman season, McClellan has had to step up into a pivotal role, delivering performances that exceeded all expectations.
“I was a freshman, and our best player, Ossie Joplin, broke his hand in a game in Los Angeles, so we had to adapt and figure out how to play for several weeks that followed, in his absence. That was a really big moment for me because I got to step up and feel a bigger role on the team,” McClellan said.
McClellan channels his passion into
and eyes on the goal,
both athletics and community service. In 2022, he swam part of the English Channel to raise money for Swim Across
make as much of a positive impact as the upperclassmen before him. Through success, leadership and devotion, McClellan has proven to be a bright star on the boys’ varsity water polo team, and he hopes to leave a lasting impression on incoming
much, McClellan continues to set his goals higher and higher in hopes of leaving a lasting legacy. McClellan wants to continue his athletic and academic career at the Division 1 level in college and
“Your character is number one on your legacy and how people remember you. As well as if the incoming freshmen, young kids see that the best players are working hard and giving it 100 percent, then they will too, and that's gonna impact Redwood for a long time,” McClellan said.
mwagner@redwoodbark.org
By
By Oren Weingarten Cub Reporter
In the past, the baseball program has had varsity, junior varsity (JV) and freshman teams. This year, that changed. The program dropped the JV team and now has a freshman team that includes sophomores. The school is now the only one in Marin County with a modified freshman team. Sophomore Isaac Nikfar, a former player on the freshman team who recently decided to stop playing, wishes the program had remained the same as in years prior.
“It's quite the situation to be in. I hope this doesn’t happen to anyone else,” Nikfar said.
He was one of the few sophomores on the freshman team, and the situation had started to take a toll on his
mental health. The social pressures and constant self-doubt are making the season unenjoyable, on top of the quality of play being low. It all compounded to such an extent it pushed him to quit the team. His situation, along with the other three sophomores, is unique because they are playing against less competitive teams than last year.
I would rather there be a JV team.
Cade Jaffee, Freshman
“[The season] is heavy. There's a heavy mental load. I was a starter on the JV team last year, and then I went down a team,” Nikfar said.
This has impact Nikfar’s mental health and other teammates as well. Some of the sophmores aren’t motivated to play since they are playing less competitive teams as they would on a regular JV team.
“The competition level is low, and it has been hurting the teams baseball skills on the team are dragging me down because there’s less competition,” said Nikfar.
Freshman Cade Jaffee agrees that the competition is lacking and wants more intense games.
“I would rather there be a JV team so I can play against kids my skill level instead of just dominating,” Jaffee said.
The change in team structure is also affecting player development, especially for current sophomores. Freshmen are also impacted because they are receiving less playing time.
“[Freshman] are disappointed with sophomores being on the team because they are stealing playing time,” Jaffee said.
Freshmen athletes are losing their time on the field due to the presence of sophomores, hindering development as they aren’t getting in-game repetitions. However, the goal of high school sports is to win championships and bring home banners for the school, which the baseball program continues to do.
“In the end, I would change nothing about the program because the school’s baseball wins. It's win, win, win,” Jaffee said.
When the team is winning games, there's no room to complain about the team's structure or blame the program. Regardless, the main reason the freshman team is
FRESHMAN CATCHER
grasps the ball behind the plate.
dominating is because it has older, more physically mature players. This is simply because the baseball program is one of very few that has a combined sophomore and freshman team competing in a freshman league. Hopefully, the program brings back a JV team in the future to increase competition, improve player development and create another winning team that leads greater long-term success.
Scan QR code to view boys’ view varsity lacrosse photo essay
oweingarten@redwoodbark.org
Sports betting is placing a wager on the outcome of a sporting event, and for many adolescents, it’s the beginning of a rapid spiral into a dangerous habit. High school students should not engage in sports betting, as it fosters addiction, causes financial loss and leads to longterm gambling problems.
In 2017, the United States Supreme Court overturned a law banning state-sanctioned sports betting, leaving its legalization up to the states. This led to 39 states making sports gambling legal for adults, although for minors, it remains illegal. Since 2017, Rutgers University has reported a 400 percent increase in sports betting for young adults ages 18 to 24, and Kindbridge Behavioral Health reported in 2022 that 60-80 percent of high school students in the U.S. currently gamble.
Due to the increased nationwide popularity of sports betting, high school students all over the country have begun to gamble. Its illegality means that teens must rely on pirated and unregulated websites such as Underdog Sports, PrizePicks and Fliff to bet. These websites are less stringent on age verification and are easily bypassed using a fake age or a parent’s ID. The websites' userfriendly, game-like formats combined with the overall appeal to sports attract many students.
A student who wished to remain anonymous — referred to here as “Jack” — shared their extensive experience with sports betting and the horrifying side attached to being addicted to sports betting at a young age.
“I know it’s illegal, but I can’t see myself stopping. I'm too addicted,” Jack said.
Since its legalization for adults, social media accounts offering sports betting tips, tricks and strategies have surged in popularity. This has increased teens’ attraction in what they see as an easy and quick way of making
money online. Passion for sports, combined with the enticing and game-like design of betting websites make illegal gambling feel harmless. These shady platforms use colorful interfaces, false promises of winning and addictive game-like features to hook teens, revealing how easily teens can get tied into the addictive and dangerous properties of sports betting.
This rampant rise in popularity among adults has led to early adolescent exposure to sports betting due to the vast media coverage. Specialists suggest that early exposure is severely dangerous to the mental health and development of adolescents. Dr. Timothy Fong, a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, expressed that young teens exposed to gambling are four times more likely to develop an addiction in adulthood.
Gambling at a young age can lead to addiction and difficulty managing emotions. Sports betting — like scrolling on your phone, releases dopamine, a chemical in the brain that triggers feelings of happiness. The release of dopamine causes a “rush” or “high” and, over time, can rewire the brain — specifically the frontal lobe — due to dopamine overload. Experiencing constant dopamine release can lead to significant unhappiness when without it, making it difficult for teens to find joy outside of sports betting.
This is primarily due to sports betting corporations' use of advanced statistical models to set betting lines. Professionals analyze the sport thoroughly and create accurate predictions, making it very difficult to come out ahead.
A combination of anxiety, addiction and trouble feeling happy makes sports betting a detrimental habit for teens’ health. To fix the problem, stricter policies must be created and enforced regarding sports betting age verification on unregulated gambling websites. Following stricter enforcement, reinstating a nationwide ban on sports betting would be necessary to contain its influence on adolescents.
Aside from its addictive nature, sports betting can also create financial issues. Jack highlighted how it has caused several money problems for him.
“Over the past year I’ve lost around $100 in total, but [won] as much as $500. That’s why I keep coming back,” Jack said.
Additionally, sports betting can cause a gradual or even a rapid depletion of money, thus increasing anxiety.
Additionally, implementing educational programs to inform adolescents about the risks of sports betting, along with increasing to mental health support and counseling for teens struggling with a gambling addiction, can drastically improve their overall wellbeing and reduce the long-term impact of underage gambling. Sports betting poses a serious threat to teenagers, fueling addiction and profound emotional struggles. Acknowledging its dangers and raising awareness surrounding the detrimental issue and the easy access teens have to sports betting is key to fixing the problem. Limiting sports betting access for adolescents must happen — and it must happen quickly.
tralston@redwoodbark.org
By Graham Myers Cub Reporter
During high school, student-athletes work hard to manage all of their work, but playing two or even three sports on top of school adds even more stress.
While playing two sports can be rewarding, it can be hard to manage and the transition between each sport can be complicated.
Redwood head varsity baseball coach Mike Firenzi has many multi-sport athletes on his team this season.
“The two-sport athlete is almost being penalized now because if their team does well, they overlap into their next season a lot,” Firenzi said.
Senior and three-sport athlete Kody Vasquez explains how transitioning from one sport to another can be difficult on both your training and your body. From switching between varsity football, basketball and lacrosse, Vasquez has experienced it all.
“Even though I’m training year-round, I have to recondition myself for each sport,” Vazquez said.
This is an issue when athletes are expected to change sports the day after an emotional playoff loss, especially for seniors like Vasquez.
“I go from getting tackled and hit every day to 24 hours later doing more short sprints and running up and down the basketball court. It's pretty hard,” Vasquez said.
There are many specific skills you will need in each sport that differs from another, for example, Coach Firenzi explains why adjusting to another sport is difficult.
“In a sport like baseball, [the transition] is difficult because there is a lot of timing involved that takes a while to adjust to, so when you come out late from another sport, you’re a little behind everybody else,” Firenzi said.
When these players start their season late, it’s harder for them to jump into the starting lineup.
“The basketball team had been training for a while in the fall, and had already played a few games, so when I came in so late, the starters [were] already selected and everybody was more prepared. You have to work a lot harder to take those spots,” Vasquez said.
While it is harder to regain starting spots, Firenzi explained that if you’re good enough to start, then you will.
Many sophomores and some freshmen get the opportunity to be pulled up from their junior varsity (JV) team to varsity, so they can experience what it is like before their junior or senior year.
Sophomore Chase Johnson, who was on the JV basketball team, was pulled up this season to the varsity basketball team. As a crucial starter on the varsity baseball team, the overlap between the sports forced Johnson to make a tough decision.
“While it was a great opportunity to
play basketball on the next level, after talking it over with [Coach] Mike, we decided it would be better to say no so that I could go right to baseball,” Johnson said.
Many freshmen and sophomores that get called up from JV to varsity don’t get to play or even suit up.
“If [Johnson] was going to go up to the varsity and actually play and contribute in their postseason, by all means I’d love for him to go. But to go up there and watch on the bench for three weeks and put him behind as a starting player in baseball, it didn’t make much sense to me,” Firenzi said.
The boys’ varsity basketball team played their first MCAL playoff game two days after the official start of spring sports,
and their season ended during a loss to Oakland Tech, just over three weeks into the spring season.
Vasquez has a lot of experience in NCS, through big football and basketball playoff runs, but he feels there are some issues.
“I had to miss the first three lacrosse games and starting the playoffs earlier in the basketball season could have been helpful and benefited many athletes in similar situations as mine,” Vasquez said.
While there are flaws with the way playoffs are set up, changing them will be very hard, as the main solution would be cutting seasons shorter.
gmyers@redwoodbark.org
By Beatrice Nass and Tate Ralston Cub Reporters
Every March since 1939, men’s college basketball teams have competed for the national championship title in the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament. Each year, unexpected lower-seeded teams, commonly known as Cinderella teams, ruin brackets while top seeded teams fight for their glory.
Brackets are filled with predictions of how the tournament will unfold, and many students participate in March Madness by picking winners for each of the 67 games.
Brackets are done with friends, family or even in public groups on sport apps like the Entertainment and Sports Programming Network (ESPN) and Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS), compiling to over 34 million brackets filled out across all major platforms.
Students, typically sports fanatics, fill out one or many brackets, such as sophomore Miles Asch. For many, March
Madness holds a powerful and sentimental place in student households, acting as a connector between family and friends.
“March Madness is pretty much a holiday in my household. I’ve been filling out brackets, usually several per year, for 10 years. [This year] I have Florida going all the way,” Asch said.
The first two days of the tournament set the tone for the month with a combination of predicted blowouts and a few bracketbusting upsets. After the first game, No. 9 seed Creighton Bluejays upset No. 8 seed Louisville Cardinals, which immediately busted over 13 million brackets.
On March 20, the No. 5 seed Clemson Tigers played the No. 12 seed McNeese State Cowboys and lost by two points in an unexpected outcome. This upset, in which only 22.4 percent picked McNeese, led to fewer than 2 million perfect brackets
remaining after just six games played. Games like this exploded brackets on the first day, and the second day of March Madness rolled around with only 36,000 (.09 percent) perfect brackets.
Sophomore Reid Stoll is one of many who banked on Clemson going far.
“McNeese beating Clemson [hurt my bracket most]. I had [Clemson] going to the Final Four,” Stoll said.
Other notable first-round upsets included Arkansas beating Kansas 79-72 and Drake defeating Missouri 67-57. The second-day upsets brought the Colorado State Rams over the Memphis Tigers 7870, and the New Mexico Lobos over the Marquette Golden Eagles 75-66. After the first 32 games, only 181 perfect brackets remained and the madness of March was just beginning.
The second round consisted of 16
games with the 32 remaining teams. Among the several bracket busters was No. 10 seed Arkansas defeating No. 2 seed St. John’s 75-66.
Sophomore Cole Sandrich, who filled out six brackets this year, was hit hard when the St. John’s Red Storm got taken out by the Arkansas Razorbacks.
By Logan Scully Cub Reporter
Tom Fishburne began sketching cartoons in the school newspaper and now has reached world wide success. Over the last 25 years, Fishburne has been able to grow his company, Marketoonist, to over a million followers across all of his platforms due to weekly cartoons and big name companies bringing him fame.
Fishburne is a local Marin cartoonist who created the company Marketoonist in 2010, after working in marketing for eight years. Fishburne attended Harvard Business School in the early 2000s, where he began learning his future company’s marketing side while drawing a weekly cartoon strip for his school newspaper, “The Harbus.”
After graduating business school in 2002, Fishburne started a marketing career at General Mills, with on line cartoons
remaining his side hobby. Eventually, Fishburne realized that this could form a fulfilling career path as cartoons began taking up most of his time while working in marketing.
Fishburne quit his job as a marketer for General Mills to pursue his passion for drawing cartoons and has been with his company, Marketoonist, for 15 years.
“I’ve had the chance to work with over 200 different clients and a wide range of types of projects, but cartooning was always at the core for me,” Fishburne said.
This new unique company combined Fishburne’s marketing past with his love for cartoons, allowing him to partner with major companies such as Google, Adobe, Microsoft and Linked In. One company he worked with, Marketing Week, offered to help him acquire a Guinness World Record for the most contributions to a life sized color by number.
“It ended up being fun to see everyone collectively draw [the color by number] because I [got to add] to it too,” Fishburne said.
Fishburne is a father of two daughters both college students who have helped change his work to connect with the humor of younger generations, increasing his audience.
“They’re the best editors and don’t hold back,” Fishburne said, “It helps make [the cartoons] more relevant and real by getting my daughters’ perspectives on it.”
A friend and colleague of Fishburne’s, Jen Scales, has helped expand his work to various companies over the years. Scales added to Fishburne’s relevance by explaining his impact on the cartoon and real world.
“He has had a huge impact [on the world] because he has a special way of
“I’VE
HAD THE chance to work with over 200 different clients and a wide range of types of projects, but cartooning was always at the core for me,” Fishburne said.
staying on top of trends and current events and finding a way to stay engaged with his audience, no matter the age,” Scales said.
When prompted about her friendship with Fishburne, Scales quickly described his unique ability to stay humble despite his great success and consistency throughout the years. Though it started as just an email to his friends, nearly every Monday for the past 22 years, Fishburne has published cartoons across many different platforms.
Eventually, Fishburne would consistently send them out via email. Slowly, other companies would hear about this and reach out, asking him to make cartoons for their company. These side gigs began to stack up, earning him a good share of profit.
Fishburne’s wife, Tallie Fishburne, who originally came along as a business
By Margaret Schwartz Cub Reporter
Redwood Television (TV) produces five to ten minute segments that are played every Friday during SMART. Yet, behind the scenes is a mystery to most. Hours are spent each week filming segments, diving deeper into the community and providing an entertaining break for students hard at work.
Senior Brooke Ellington, executive producer and main host, estimates that she spends about seven to eight hours a week putting together the final product.
According to Ellington, students in
Redwood TV are first split into groups. It runs on a three week cycle, providing ample time to brainstorm segment ideas, write a script, film and edit. Once a segment is completed, it is sent to Ellington for edits and production. It is then sent to the Redwood TV advisor, Eric Berkowitz.
“I edit the entire thing. I edit my personal segment, and then hopefully I’m just getting sent segments to put together. Once I’m done, I’m exporting it, uploading it to YouTube, and then I send it off to Berkowitz,” Ellington said.
While Redwood TV is a student-led class, Berkowitz is there to help if students hit a wall.
“[Berkowitz] is a creative guy, so he is really good at coming up with segment ideas and where to go with them if students are struggling, and he uploads everything to the website. He’s definitely a part of the process, but he’s more of a supportive force behind it all,” Ellington said.
Senior Madi Rand said that she signed up for Redwood TV because of Berkowitz.
“I had found out [about Redwood TV] as it was a recommended class to take by Berkowitz. I started as a behind the camera operator, and then I went to become an on screen host junior year, and [now] I am a main host and editor,” Rand said.
Rand is aired frequently during the
partner, was supportive of a career switch as the demand for cartoons increased.
Fishburne would tell her, “When the side hustle is making half as much as my salary, then I will jump [careers].”
Tallie explained how this new career started, pointing out that the natural spread of the word was a perfect way to get going, along with the pureness of the cartoon.
“There was no ad or sales pitch; it was so pure; it’s just a cartoon to make you laugh,” Tallie said.
Ultimately, Tom Fishburne successfully transformed his passion for cartooning into a unique and successful business, demonstrating how creativity and hard work can lead to lasting success.
lscully@redwoodbark.org
weekly announcements and enjoys the consistent screen time.
“I will say it’s quite hard to memorize the script, but it’s fun because you’ve usually been going to school with the main hosts for four years now, and it’s just a time to have fun, trying not to laugh while saying important announcements,” Rand said.
Redwood TV offers an array of jobs and talents available to students, including the ins-and-outs of writing, filming, and editing.
“I think the class is great for anyone that is interested in learning to tell stories, [and] people who are interested in video production or editing or any kind of film making,” Berkowitz said.
Berkowitz is hoping to further expand the horizon of Redwood TV through new projects and audiences.
“I’d love to collaborate more with The Bark and with photography to find ways that our kids can cross-pollinate and get their [work] out to a wider audience,” Berkowitz said.
Berkowitz also submitted a grant to the Redwood Foundation in hopes of upgrading the equipment used in filming.
“This next round of grant cycles, we’re [hoping] to get five more cameras and lenses, so we’ll have ten and phase out the much older cameras,” Berkowitz said.
Redwood TV provides a learning outlet for students interested in film. Thanks to their passion and hard work, students are informed on all parts of on-campus life.
mschwartz@redwoodbark.org
By Georgia Thomas Cub Reporter
Sophomores Cole Sandrich, JP Acker and Rosstin Pouradib lead the Community, Helping, Accessibility, Inclusivity and Resource Acquisition (CHAIR) Club. Their goal is to raise money towards essential equipment for wheelchair users, focusing on improving wheelchair accessibility and spreading awareness. They are planning on organizing fundraisers such as barbecues, sports events and equipment drives in the future.
According to Acker, a co-founder of the club and a wheelchair user himself, equipment such as wheelchairs, specifically electric wheelchairs, can be difficult to acquire. Acker also recognizes the financial strain that the cost of equipment poses for wheelchair users.
“I'm lucky that my family is privileged and has the money to afford good wheelchair equipment. But there are many people out there who don't have access to this equipment like I do,” Acker said.
Sandrich, working alongside Acker,
has been involved with wheelchair accessibility since freshman year through the Unified Track team, a program that encourages students with special needs and physical disabilities to compete in track meets.
CHAIR has worked to collaborate with the Unified Track team, as Acker is an athlete on the team and Sandrich is a member and is involved with helping the team.
“One thing that's great about Unified is that it allows you to connect with the members of the special education program in a way that you wouldn't otherwise,” Sandrich said.
CHAIR hopes to make an impact on the greater community through fundraising.
Pouradib is excited about planning their upcoming equipment drive, similar to a clothing drive but accustomed to the needs of those who utilize equipment. At the drive they will be collecting wheelchairs, crutches, and other equipment.
“The purpose of the club is to raise funds so we can offset the price [of equipment], both on an individual level and on the more
macroscopic level, focusing on individuals with needs for certain equipment, as well as broader communities,” Sandrich said.
Additionally they plan to host basketball players from around Marin County for a basketball game in which they will charge an entry fee, and snacks to raise money. They are donating to organizations such as Dedication to Special Education, and People in Need.
Acker emphasizes the importance of accessibility and how necessary it is for those to have easy access to the equipment that they need.
“Having the necessary equipment is key for social life and being able to hang out with people and connect with others,” Acker said.
Not only are they working towards raising money and accessibility, but they strive towards creating a more inclusive community in which people are enthusiastic towards helping and supporting those in wheelchairs.
“I feel like a lot of people with disabilities don’t necessarily go unnoticed, but there needs to be more talk about inclusivity everywhere. [We want to promote] the idea that disabled people can do things too,” Acker said.
However, as the club moves forward they have encountered some challenges, one of them being the lack of genuine passion to create change through action on campus from students.
“There's a lot of general desire to create change, but a lot of it isn't always channeled towards the most specific actions,” Sandrich said.
The CHAIR club began with a turnout of 55 members at signup, though it has lost some members over time. However, despite the decrease, it has still maintained its popularity.
“Although the intent is there, it really takes a lot of leadership to create actionable change at Redwood,” Sandrich said.
In order to have a larger outreach the CHAIR Club is collaborating with the special education program, intending to collaborate ideas and actions.
“The special needs community has reached out to us, and there's been all sorts of responses from that community,” Sandrich said.
The heads of the special education program have suggested ways that the CHAIR Club can make influential changes here at Redwood using both of their influences.
“The head of the Special Education classroom has given us some names of people who have different disabilities, who could potentially help us grow CHAIR Club and spread awareness,” Acker said.
CHAIR is in the process of planning their first fundraiser. They will host a barbecue otherwise known as Grill n’ Chill which will be held on April 27 at Belvedere park in Tiburon.
gthomas@redwoodbark.org
By Siena Forster and Bella Garbo Cub Reporters
Having brought home countless Marin County Athletic League banners, the track team is one of the school's many successes. The track team is split into many smaller sections, including the sprint, distance and field teams.
Coach Earl Downing has been the sprinter coach for four years. Downing enjoys coaching because of the team’s inclusive, hard-working environment.
“[When running track] there's something for everyone, regardless of skill set or experience,” Downing said.
Downing started coaching because he ran track in college and always wanted to coach later in life. He loved track and wanted to incorporate that into his later years. Coaching was the perfect balance between the sport itself and who he is as a person now.
“I felt I had a lot of experience to share,” Downing said, “I wanted to bring what I had in track and field to other people.”
Sprinters have relay teams, which is a great way for teammates to work together. Coach Downing’s favorite events are the relays.
“[The relays are] a shared experience. I come from a big family, and being on relay teams continues to remind me of my family experience with a group of people having a shared set of goals. [There is] almost nothing like it,” Downing said.
Through track, students learn valuable life skills, such as hard work and determination. These skills benefit students not only on the track team but in other aspects of their lives after high school.
“There's measured success in every event. It's not only exhilarating, fun, and good for your physical life, but in terms of learning how to do something hard now for a payback way later. That's a skill set that's [important in life],” Downing said.
I come from a big family, and being on relay teams continues to remind me of my family.
Coach Earl Downing
The sprint team is a very popular option for students who run track. Marco Cleary is a junior on the varsity sprinting team who runs the 100-meter dash as well as the 200 and 400-meter races. Cleary also runs the 4 by 100-meter and 4 by 400-meter relays. Cleary’s main coach is Coach Downing who helps him during practice and coaches him at meets. Downing has helped Cleary achieve his goals in so many different ways and has been a huge inspiration.
“My sprinting coach put a lot of faith into me. He always has high hopes for me, and he inspires me to do the best I can,” Cleary said.
Nicole Graydon has been the distance coach for several years now. Not only does she manage the track team, but she also coaches the cross-country team and is a physical education teacher.
“I liked high jump in middle school [and] when I got here, they needed help [coaching track],” Graydon said.
Before coming to Redwood, Graydon was the track coach at Rincon Valley Middle School, coaching over 250 kids. Due to Graydon's experience with coaching such a large team, taking on Redwood’s wasn’t too hard for her.
Senior Marley Nacco has been running track since she was a freshman and has been the team captain the past two years. She specializes in the 800 and 1600-meter races.
Nacco has been running track since middle school, which influenced her decision to run track in high school. Nacco found the track team super nice and supportive, initially drawing her in. Nacco participates in track and cross country, making Graydon her coach for both sports.
Made up of around 200 kids, the track team can be very challenging. It can be hard for coaches to help each individual for two hours at each practice.
“I make incredibly detailed practice plans for them, and then in those practice plans, they get about an hour to work with the athletes specific to their event,” Graydon said.
Each practice looks a bit different, focusing on various aspects of the events. Mondays are considered “easy days” with small runs and hill sprints, Tuesdays and Thursdays are “workout days” with reps around the track, and Wednesdays and Fridays are morning practices with long runs that range from five to eight miles and strides around the track. This system of practicing gives team members enough time per week to work on all parts of their running.
“We're utilizing time for warm-ups, band activation, fitness, and then they're getting time to do event-specific work,” Graydon said.
Both Graydon and Downing inspire their runners every day outside of track. They make sure their runners know they believe in them and want to help make their goals and aspirations come true.
“[Coach Graydon] is the perfect amount of caring for her runners, and also doesn't let you slack off,” Nacco said.
It can be hard to navigate such a big team, but Graydon and Downing’s teamwork throughout practices and track meets has played a key role in achieving a successful season.
“The good part about having such a big team [is that] it's such a big environment; we have the most support, and it pushes you to do better,” Cleary said.
Graydon and Downing have worked to create a lighthearted, hardworking community for athletes to come together and do what they love!
bark@redwoodbark.org
By Andrew Delsol Cub Reporter
When Ula Lipinska and Julian Harms stepped onto Redwood’s campus for the first time, they were met with a whirlwind of new experiences: crowded hallways, unfamiliar faces, and the challenge of navigating school in a different language. As exchange students living with a host family in Corte Madera, they are embracing the adventure, eager to immerse themselves in Redwood’s culture and make the most of their year abroad.
At the beginning of the 2024-25 school year, senior Urszula Lipinska came to the United States from Poland, and junior Julian Harms came from Germany.
“I wanted to experience learning in other education systems and explore the world more,” Lipinska said.
Harms also finds that attending school in America comes with new adventures, and new
things that are very different from Germany.
“New experiences and curiosity were my main reasons [for moving], and my dad told me I could. High schools in America are highly praised internationally,” Harms said.
The Nacel Open Door is an organization that helps kids from around the world experience a semester abroad in a new country.
The NOD reached out to Alison Lippa, a mom who was an exchange student herself, hoping she could be Lipinska and Harms’s host mom.
“I started volunteering to help find families, and then that led me eventually to agree to take on exchange students myself this year,” Lippa said.
Lipinska recently became a NOD star for her amazing experience and story while moving from Poland to Marin. She was also the Rich Banisikowski Memorial Scholarship winner, which helped her come to California for this school year.
“This experience has really opened our horizons, and helped us step out of our comfort zone,” Lipsinka said.
Schools in Poland and Germany differ significantly from schools in the United States, mainly in the different subjects that are required to be taught.
“I was surprised by how much people care about their high school and the people in it. In our countries things like sports happen outside of school, and you hang out with different people you didn’t meet at school,” Lipinska said.
Harms also added how different the ‘car culture’ was in the United States compared to Poland and how funny it was to see how some cars looked.
Since transferring, both Harms and Lipinska have noticed how different the classes are here compared to where they are from.
“Classes in Poland are much broader, and there aren’t many specific classes,” Lipinska said.
“My favorite class is physiology. It’s very aligned with my passion for medicine and surgery, and there are a lot of hands-on experiences,” Lipinska said.
Both Harms and Lipinska love the travel they have experienced since coming to the United States.
“Traveling around the United States; seeing
national parks but also famous cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Tahoe and more,” Harms said.
Although many places from around the world speak English, there’s still a language barrier that can occur.
“Every young person in Europe speaks English, so that is not a problem because we can already understand many things,” Lipinska said.
Lippa notes that the lack of a language barrier has helped the students become adjusted to Marin’s atmosphere.
“Their English is great, and they could easily both step into an American university and have no problem keeping up,” Lippa said.
Lipinksa looks forward to attending university in America and continuing her journey here.
“I would love to come back. The US has very good medical schools, which I’m considering. Moreover, I’d love to show California and Marin to my Polish friends,” Lipinksa said.
andrewdelsol@redwoodbark.org