Wearing our hearts on our sleeves Science teacher releases meaningful clothing line

For chemistry teacher Alex Polk, the phrase “Take a deep breath, you are loved” is more of a belief than just a statement. For years, he’s been spreading his message throughout the school using bracelets, artwork and posters — now with his very own merchandise, complete with hoodies, t-shirts, crewnecks and mugs.

According to Polk, the message has been an important aspect of his life for a long time.

“It dates back to my junior or senior year of college,” Polk said. “Originally, it was ‘Smile, you are loved,’ but eventually I shifted it to ‘Take a deep breath.’ The importance of breathing and continuing on is really valuable. I must have discovered that at some point during those years, and it stuck with me.”

Junior Madeline Anklam said that for her, the message helps her slow down and reminds her to focus on one thing at a time.

“To me, it means taking things one step at a time,” Anklam said. “It’s also a reminder that there are people around you that love you.”

Polk said that the message is meant to serve as a reminder that people are worth more than just their accomplishments, and his goal with the clothing line is to spread it.

“To me, it’s just about the idea that no matter what you’re going through, what you’re doing, or what your accomplishments are, that doesn’t define you — you are who you are, and that’s all you need to be,” Polk said. “That’s enough, and you are enough on your own. It’s something I always want to remind my students, too, and I thought that clothes might be a nice way to do that.”

According to sophomore Ruby Viot, Polk’s use of the motto in the classroom helps emphasize that grades aren’t everything, and that hard work is more important.

“In Mr. Polk’s class, every time we have a test, he writes it on the whiteboard,” Viot said. “It helps make it less stressful, and reminds me that even if I don’t do well, it’s still going to be okay.”

According to Polk, his wish for the message to reach more people, both inside and

According to club member and sophomore Arun Ferran-Sapatnekar, Model UN will be an exciting and unique experience as well as a good resume builder.

“I thought it would be an interesting experience to have and also it is a good thing to have on your resume for your future,” Ferran-Sapatnekar said.

Engebretson said that Model UN can be a good way for students to find people with similar interests, while learning about new passions.

“It’s a great way for students to learn how to advocate for themselves for all issues and what they are passionate about,” Engebretson said. “It’s a great way to build community with other students and people that are also interested in being global citizens and learning about the world.”

Abdirahman said that the competition isn’t only work but there are also multiple chances to create new connections.

“For the competition we are gonna stay overnight in a hotel and there are opportunities to have fun,” Abdirahman said. “It’s not solely just the conference all day, at night you can go out with your friends or make new friends from across the state.” outside the school, led to the decision to create a clothing line.

For more information about Model UN, reach out to Emma Engebretson in room C373.

“I’ve always had wristbands with the message on it, but I think having actual clothes spreads it even more,” Polk said. “It’s a chance for somebody who isn’t necessarily in the school to remember to breathe as well.”

Anklam said that buying merch can be an effective way to spread a good message.

“I would definitely buy Polk’s merchandise,” Anklam said. “It’s a good reminder, and maybe more people will be able to see it and it’ll make their day.”

Although Polk uses his own motto as a focal point on the clothes, there are also reminders to keep loving unconditionally. Polk said that the purpose of this is to expand on his message, and encourage people to act with love.

“All I really want is for people to realize they have worth and that acting with kindness and love matters,” Polk said.

Design by Abby Bartleson Eliah Fink

Hair means a lot to people culturally and expressively. It’s a way to express somebody’s character.”