OPINION | Page 5
A JUNIOR’S POV: BECOMING A SENIOR
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Volume 8, Issue 6
ARTS & LIFE | Page 12
SPORTS | Page 15
CATALYST SPARTANS PLAN GRADUATION TRIPS
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May 2022
The Spartans say goodbye
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Seniors line up for a class photo in their college sweatshirts on May 9, replicating their freshman year class picture taken in the same place. by Peyton Daley Editor in Chief The Class of 2022 has certainly had a challenging time in high school. Three out of their four years at NDB were affected by a global pandemic. One of those years was spent entirely behind computer screens, rather than in the classroom with all of their peers. However, the Spartans have not let
COVID-19 alone define their high school experience. Their junior year was spent away from campus, but they returned for their final year ready to take on the responsibilities of the senior class and lead the underclassmen through NDB traditions. Now, as they prepare to graduate from NDB and take the next steps towards independence, the seniors look back over their time in high school with bittersweet
memories. At their first rally as freshmen in August 2018, the Class of 2022 earned the reputation of being “unspirited” when they mainly sat on the gym’s bleachers and watched the other classes, instead of standing and cheering. Unsurprisingly, they came in last place at the event, the beginning of a pattern of losses for the Spartans. Although they were not winning, as the
year went on their appreciation for spirit activities grew. “I remember my freshman year, Dingbat rally, in particular, was especially exciting for my freshman year self. I recall the 2018-2019 ASB putting on a really scary, but fun and immersive rally and, from that day on, just feeling extremely excited for the many other rallies I would have during my time at NDB,” shared current ASB
officer Marissa Bergquist. “If I remember correctly, the rally was IT themed and it was completely dark inside the gym and then, all of a sudden, Serra boys came out of the bleachers with bats to scare all the students. Now having been on ASB, I can only imagine the insane amount of work and coordination, especially to work with the Serra ASB, the 2018 ASB had to put in to give the entire school a fun experience.”
As freshmen, the class fully embraced the opportunities on campus, joining clubs and teams, trying new activities, meeting new people and most of all, learning. They found their place at NDB throughout the year, and when it came time for Aquacades, they went into the event extremely excited. Even though they came in fourth that night,
known to be accelerated and challenging, as they introduce students to college-level skills and allow them the opportunity to earn college credit. Consequently, many find the long and complex exams intimidating. “I took one AP exam this year: AP U.S. History. Going into the test, I was nervous, especially for the writing portion. The test was long and draining, but once it was over, I was relieved,” said junior Sarah Howie.
by Editorial Staff
and I was worried that not being in-person to deliver it would hurt my chances at winning the election,” expressed Fitzgerald. “I think it worked out in my favor though, because there isn’t much that says ‘I’m dedicated’ more than delivering a speech with COVID-19 and a 102 degree fever.” Delivering a speech virtually was a challenge at first, as some candidates were worried that it would put them at a disadvantage. Fortunately, they were able to record their speech as a video and have it played along with the rest
of the speeches. “I was out of town the day we were supposed to give our election speeches, so I had to pre-record mine. To be completely honest, it took a few takes to get a good video, but I was happy with the outcome. I am really looking forward to ASB next year and I can’t wait to plan spirit events that everyone can enjoy!” Hickson said. Being part of ASB at NDB is a huge commitment and responsibility. Between organizing spirit events, leading underclassmen, and being the face of
the school, ASB dedicates hard work, time and focus to their duties throughout the year. “I am super excited for all the time I’ll be spending with my fellow ASB officers, and I’m super excited to get to know them better,” shared Ailanjian. As school spirit at NDB is incredibly important, the ASB officers hold a lot of power. They are responsible for organizing spirit rallies, spirit weeks, spirit points and most
In-person AP exams return by Molly Phan Opinion Editor Each year in the spring, as the school year comes to a close, high school students around the U.S. prepare to take their Advanced Placement (AP) exams. The exams are intended by the College Board to measure how well students learn and understand the material of their AP courses. This year, the AP exams were administered nationally in-person during the first two weeks of May. AP classes are
See AP EXAMS | Page 2
CLAIR SAPILEWSKI / THE CATALYST
Gabby Wylie-Chaney prepares for her AP exams.
See SPARTANS | Page 9
New ASB officers elected to lead next year’s student body
On Friday, April 29, NDB held its annual Associated Student Body (ASB) election to name the officers for the 2022-2023 school year. Several juniors delivered speeches to the current freshmen, sophomores and juniors who voted on who would best lead the school next year. By the end of the day, it was announced that Amelia Ailanjian, Lauren Fitzgerald, Kassie Hickson, Sophia Rask, Caitlynn Reynolds and Zeina Zumot would become next year’s ASB. Throughout the weeks leading up to elections, the candidates worked hard to prepare their campaign speeches and posters. Out of the twelve junior candidates, three were unable to deliver a campaign speech on election day in-person, so a virtual option was provided. “Having to give my speech online, I felt really crushed. I worked really hard on that speech,
See ASB ELECTION | Page 3
PHOTO COURTESY OF @NDBTIGERS
The new ASB officers will lead NDB through the 2022-2023 school year.