Issue 11 2023-24

WHAT'S NEW ABOUT THE DIGITAL SAT?

March break revives the stamina of the SPS community, giving students, faculty and staff a well-deserved rest. On the other side of break lies spring term with its warm sunny days, Spikeball on Chapel Lawn, and afternoons at the Boat Docks. But spring term brings another, less alluring period: standardized testing season. Following October’s PSAT, March, April and May are prime time for a shot at the real deal. 2024 launches a new SAT: it will be all-digital starting on March 9 and continuing in perpetuity.

The paper-and-pencil SAT, which consisted of 154 questions and lasted roughly three hours, has long been a ubiquitous source of stress among high schoolers. The College Board’s replacement, the digital SAT (dSAT), lasts two hours and 14 minutes, whcih the College Board says will reduce stress.

Additionally, the long-winded paper and pencil passages and accompanying questions have been replaced with 54 oneparagraph-length passages matched one-toone with each question.

The dSAT’s two math sections are now fully calculator-active, a change from past years in which one section was calculatorinactive. Complete with an infrastructure suite of Desmos, a built-in timer, and annotation software, the College Board has geared its changes toward creating a more comfortable student experience.

Perhaps the most significant change to the test’s structure, apart from being fully digital, is the dSAT’s new adaptive format. Using what the College Board calls a “multistage adaptive design” with little additional elaboration on the details, the second module of each section (Reading and Writing, Math) adapts separately to each student’s test performance.

Students who answer a certain number of questions correctly on the first module of each section will be routed to the more difficult section module, allowing them to score up to a maximum of 800 points. Conversely, those who fail to meet the correct answer threshold will be routed to an easier second section, with their possible section scores capped at a certain number depending on the particular iteration of the SAT.

This reporter took the digital SAT on

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The Pelican

STUDENTS TO TRAVEL TO TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE

Emerson Bentley '25

You may have seen the upcoming solar eclipse in news headlines and on TikTok. As the anticipation builds for this stellar event, rumors of a day off swirl on campus. The rumors are true: On April 8 St. Paul's School students will have the opportunity to see the total solar eclipse.

What is a solar eclipse, and why should we care about it? Teacher of Astronomy and Physics Seth Cohen has the answers.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, with the moon lining up to partially or totally block the sun out in the sky. Partial solar eclipses are common and can be easily viewed from many places on earth. They are interesting to look at, but not particularly special.

Total solar eclipses are a whole different ball game. “A total solar eclipse is the coolest thing you’ll ever see," says Cohen. "Total solar eclipses happen every 18 months or so, but they’re only visible from a small path on Earth, only for a few minutes. To have one happen so close to us that we can drive to see it is an almost once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

On April 8 students who sign up will start the day in Memorial Hall with a presentation on the eclipse and what to expect from the day. The group will then travel north via coach bus to Foote Brook Farm in Johnson, Vt., one of the few places in the world where this total eclipse can be seen. The total eclipse in Johnson will last for three minutes.

Cohen says these three minutes will be unlike anything viewers have ever experienced before. “During the three minutes of the total eclipse, you can take off your glasses to see an eerie black circle in the sky, haloed by the shining corona of the Sun," he says. "The corona is basically the 'atmosphere' of the Sun that is normally outshined by the Sun’s light. It will get dark, like it’s dusk. There will be 360 degrees of the colors of sunset on every horizon. Birds, insects, and other animals will freak out because they think it’s nighttime. Plus: shadow snakes.”

While waiting for the eclipse, students will play games and take part in other fun activities. Following the eclipse, students will return to the grounds.

WELCOMING PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS ON SPRING VISIT DAYS

When you opened your acceptance letter to SPS, joy filled the room. However, you were probably waiting for the monumental moment to persuade you to choose SPS: Spring Visit Day. If you applied in the postCOVID era, Spring Visit Day likely played a huge role in your decision to join our community.

As a student at SPS, being on the other side of Spring Visit Day is just as much fun. Most students in Third and Fourth Form get paired up with a prospective student to show them around SPS for the day. Other students play an equally important role in helping prospective students and showing them the real SPS.

Every Spring Visit Day, energy and fun circulate the campus as SPS puts forward its best foot to impress the future members of our community.

Spring Visit Day has a special schedule

Lulu Mangriotis '25

Prospective students visit with Chinese Society head Hudson Stovall '24 // Photo by Temi Johnson '24

Lucas Miller '25

POLITICS UPDATE

Trump and Biden secure enough delegates for nomination

Nel Peter '25

On March 5, 15 states participated in Super Tuesday, a pivotal collection of primary elections and caucuses for both Republicans and Democrats. Super Tuesday has consistently been a reliable predictor for several elections, from the presidential primaries to the Senate and House of Representatives. Over a third of the delegates in each party's 2024 presidential primary cycle were up for grabs this year’s Super Tuesday.

For the Republicans, Former President Donald Trump clinched 14 of the 15 states that voted, adding up to 801 delegates, while challenger Nikki Haley put up just 51 by winning Vermont. Haley dropped out of the Republican primary race the following day. Notably, she did not endorse Trump following her concession of the race as other former GOP nomination contenders, like Ramaswamy, DeSantis and Christie did.

In the Democratic primaries, while President Joseph Biden swept all 15 states, many Democrat voters chose the “uncommitted” option to protest Biden’s policies on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The number of voters choosing not to support Biden reflects Biden’s lack of popularity within his own party. Voters choosing “uncommitted” was most prominent in Minnesota, where 19% of Democrat voters took the option, with another 7.8% of the vote going to Representa-

tive Dean Phillips (D-MN 3rd District). As a result, many delegates will show up to the Democratic National Convention not committed to a particular candidate.

But despite the day's commotion, Trump and Biden came out of Super Tuesday having likely secured their respective party’s nominations.

Ohio’s upcoming Senate race will also be interesting to watch: Trump-endorsed businessman and political outsider Bernie Moreno (R) will face off against incumbent Sherrod Brown (D), who has held the seat since 2007. Additionally, Americans will watch the North Carolina Governor’s race as Josh Stein (D) faces off against right-wing extremist Mark Robinson (R).

Trump and Biden’s nominations are all but set in stone. Even so, the two men are still showing apparent weaknesses: Trump’s recent controversies, as he faces several felony counts and a bond set at $175 million in his fraud case, may affect his campaign bank and put him at risk of asset seizure. On the other side of the aisle, Biden is struggling with sinking approval ratings, and Super Tuesday's high non-committed voter turnout is nothing but evidence of that. With seven months to go until the nation’s Nov. 5 primary, all we can do is watch another election cycle unfold.

WHAT'S NEW ABOUT THE DIGITAL SAT?

Lucas Miller '25

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March 9, the first digital test day offered. The test day experience was similar to the College Board’s descriptions.

The adaptive nature of the test proved surprising. The first module of each section felt manageable, but the second module was significantly more difficult; the questions were more time-consuming than expected, and time nearly ran out.

Some SPS students who have recently taken the Digital SAT sing its praises. “I thought that the digital was so much better," says March SAT taker Olivia Blanchard ‘25. "Desmos saved me so much time. It was so helpful to have a timer above the problems.”

The SAT’s new format is not likely to be for everyone. But whether or not one likes it, it is likely here to stay.

WELCOMING PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS ON SPRING VISIT DAYS

Lulu Mangriotis '25

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for the students of SPS. After checking in on campus, students attend the Academics and Activities Fair held in the Form of ‘52 Gym of the AFC.

“The Academics and Activities Fair is my favorite part of the day,” says Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Dana Anselmi. “It is a way to showcase so many of the excellent opportunities at St. Paul’s.” After the fair, families go to Chapel, attend classes, see a panel of students, and round out their day with food trucks at the AFC and then attending afternoon activies.

The Admissions team spends countless

hours preparing Spring Visit Day. They make sure to carefully curate pairings between students and prospective students to create the perfect experience for the future members of our community.

The best part about Spring Visit Day is the feel of the community. "The warmth of the community is everything,” says Anselmi.

Spring Visit Days are the crucial time when many students decide to join our community. So whether you just went about your day or if you were called to be a Spring Visit Day buddy, everyone plays an important role in shaping our new community.

TIPS FOR YOUR SPRING PROMPOSAL!

Helen Berger '24

As Promposal season rolls around the corner, SPS seniors become nervous and excited about this special upcoming month. Love and friendship are in the air, but with this comes the rite of passage (many) seniors undertake: the promposal. In this article, I wanted to share my very own tips and tricks I’ve picked up from watching the good, the bad, the awkward, and funny displays we’ve seen over the years.

Tip 1: Ask before.

In my sophomore year, I remember a senior in my dorm having to say no to a boy who promposed to her. She felt bad for having already made plans, but she was also shocked that someone had put in so much effort without reaching out to her or one of her friends to check in beforehand to see if she was even interested. The moral of the story: shoot that person a text, or at the very least, one of their friends who can ask.

Tip 2: Know your Audience

If you know a little about the person you want to prompose to, you could probably anticipate how they’d want to be

asked. There are three directions you can go. First, the personal (one on one); second, your friends + their friends (a little bigger, but still comfortable); and third, the Public Promposal (Raffini, outside chapel, hanging a sign on schoolhouse, the 5th form talent show). Choose the path you want to go down and pray it’s right.

Tip 3: Be Creative

We all know the basics. The bookstore sells posters for a reason, but a low-effort poster with a tired rhyme just tells the world that you don’t like your prom date that much. This year, I want to see more skits, songs, and thoughtfully planned events that reflect the excitement of prom and the highlevel thinking that reflects the academic excellence of St. Paul’s students.

Overall, take everything in this article with a grain of salt. There is no “wrong” promposal except for the ones that put your date in an uncomfortable position. Remember the spirit of the season, and no matter what you do, have fun with it!

Graphic by Kennedy Hinojosa '24

Dear reader,

Can you believe it? We made it out of the tundra (but let’s be honest, it wasn't much of a tundra at the end — thank you, global warming)!!!!! Everything is better for those of you who have never experienced spring at St. Paul’s. In the past, we have mentioned how much our school changes with each season, and there’s no better explanation than the transition from winter to spring. Instead of a dark, stormy dungeon, the campus slowly returns to the fairy tale magic scenery that it had during those opening days of the fall term.

But we need to make a significant distinction between spring and fall. Spring is special because we ease into more warmth, happiness, flowers, and green on campus. During the fall, we had to savor every bit because we knew that each day only meant we were closer to winter. This all goes to show that Spring is the best season on campus. And even though it’s not the epitome of spring now, just know that we have something to look forward to every day.

To put it simply, nothing feels like a force anymore. Those treacherous walks to the upper and the academic quad suddenly feel enjoyable… Many people who hibernate during the winter, never leaving the dorm unless absolutely necessary, return to society again — and it’s refreshing. Rather than spending your Sundays locked in your room, in the library, or on a numbing ~nature walk~, you can finally go out and enjoy activities like hanging out on the chapel lawn or going to the docks. Most importantly, social hours no longer need to be spent in the Friedman Community Center; spread your wings and fly to Chapel Lawn. It's time to bid farewell to the parkas and pull out the spike ball!

This is an important reminder: just because it’s no longer depressing and gray does not mean you can completely take your foot off the gas… As tempting as it is to become a full-time member of Camp SPS, you can’t forget your duties as a student. So, set your priorities straight! Find that happy medium between chapel lawn games and finishing your Vth form capstone. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

As our last term as editors, we want to deliver to our readers and make the most of our last months with The Pelican. Please come to us with any suggestions or ideas, and we will do our best to implement them.

RECENT NEWS WITH THE PRINCESS OF WALES

On March 22 Princess Catherine of Wales, otherwise known as Kate Middleton, announced to the public that she has been diagnosed with cancer. Over the past several months there had been speculation about the Princess, as gossip columns and news media hunted for traces of information.

Middleton’s last official public appearance was on Jan. 16 when she was admitted to a London hospital for an undisclosed type of abdominal surgery. Between hospital discharges and Prince William’s unforeseen absences from certain royal duties, the world has been asking, “Where is Princess Kate?”

A message sent to the public on the United Kingdom's Mother’s Day prompted conversation about the mother of three’s whereabouts to a new level of concern. On March 10, Middleton shared a photo of her with her children wishing everyone a happy Mother’s Day. Shortly thereafter, the public noticed evidence of Photoshop alterations.

Carly Bigelow '25

The editing mishap caused greater speculation, sparking conspiracies that went as far as saying the princess was in a coma, or a personal body double was involved.

Middleton finally announced on March 22, that she did in fact have the successful ab-

dominal surgery for which she had been admitted to the hospital. She explained that her condition was “thought to be non cancerous” until tests came back to show that cancer was present.

These results come just a month after King Charles III announced his own cancer diagnosis. The Princess’s type of cancer has not been disclosed to the public, but she did clarify that her chemotherapy treatment is preventative and that she is undergoing the early stages.

Beyond the royal family’s personal matters, they have undergone extreme turmoil in the past several months, with social media fueling false rumors. Middleton assured the public that her duties serving the U.K. bring her great joy, and that she is thankful for the support she has received. What the royal family asks now is for the public to grant them time and space to effectively deal with the new challenges they face.

Skylar Christoffersen '24

Lidia Zur Muhlen '24

Andrew Choi '25

Lucas Miller '25

Cole Hamilton '24

Sarah Lee '24

Cora Partridge '24 C

Annabella Bernhardt '24

Nausicaa Chu '26

Will Ekstrand '24

Eden Knight '24

Kelly Sung '25

Lulu Mangriotis '25

Parker Hanson '25

Graphic by Kiki Hillery '24

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BEST TV SHOWS TO WATCH ON A BREAK

Helen Berger '24

Imagine this: School’s out, and you finally get back in bed or on the couch. The first thing I’m doing is sleeping for 12-18 hours, but right after that, I’m turning on Season 28 of one of my favorite shows, “The Bachelor.” You may think that after this many seasons and a 4% success rate over the whole BachelorNation, “The Bachelor” would be canceled, but alas, they keep going and I’m so thankful they do. The weekly updates from Joey and the women on the show are possibly the only things that kept me going throughout the winter term. My roommate and I look forward to Tuesday nights solely due to our Bachelor addiction, even trying our best to spread out the episode over two nights, to savor the drama. Personally, I’m Team Daisy, Maria, or Jenn, and if you tell me you liked Sydney or Lea, I will be judging you.

Another show I’ve binge-watched is “Grey’s Anatomy,” probably the most basic show on this list. The classic drama-filled surgeon show will always have a place in my heart, but if you can keep watching after Derek dies (sorry for the spoilers), then kudos to you. The first ten seasons will always be iconic to me; however, some shows go on too long and just need to be canceled. #SorryGreys.

The third one of Helen’s picks, hands

down, is a nature documentary. Go to Netflix, find “Life in Color with David Attenborough,” “Predators,” or another Nature Channel-esque movie, and get invested. Late at night? Nature documentary. Background noise for homework? Nature documentary. They aren’t the most exciting thing in the world, but there is truly nothing better than watching slow-motion animals running over a desert.

The last one of my picks is not a specific show but a person: Michael Schur. The writer/director/producer is, perhaps, the greatest comedic genius of our time. He has written and produced shows like “The Good Place,” “Brooklyn 99,” “The Office” and “Parks and Rec.” It’s a very specific type of humor, but his shows contain various topics and jokes that will meet your binge-worthy needs.

HOW TO PREP FOR APS AT A NON-AP SCHOOL

Elle

Ruminski '26

As high school students, we are no strangers to APs and their academic rigor. For many high school students, APs serve as benchmarks for a student’s success in their respective advanced classes or to gauge a student’s strength in specific subjects. Around the world, many schools offer distinct AP-titled courses or classes for students to take, which will prepare them for one of the AP exams. While St. Paul’s School doesn’t provide specific AP-focused classes, many advanced classes prepare students for the AP exams. If a student’s class prepares them for the exam, the college office encourages students to take the AP exam in May.

If you are currently signed up to take an AP exam in the spring, SPS offers ample resources to help you prepare for your exam. If you are enrolled in an advanced class, especially in math or science, your course has already been preparing you throughout the year with material that will be covered on the exam. Timothy Pratt, Dean of College Advising, says the college office “encourages Fifth Formers to consider taking the AP English Literature and Composition exam, as strong Humanities students often score well. Many students in the 4 Honors level of our modern languages are prepared for the AP as well.”

Many advanced classes align with AP exams, and you can always discuss the exam with your teacher and ask for guidance about preparing or practicing resources. As for specific resources, the College Office recommends students access free instructional videos and practice tests through Khan Academy. In addition to teachers, the college office is a great resource for guidance with APs; Pratt says the college office is “eager to help students prepare if they are in the corresponding courses.”

Students at SPS typically perform well on their AP exams and have strong scores across the board in all subjects. “Last year, SPS students sat for 306 AP exams in 29 subjects, with an average score of 4.22,” says Pratt. “Seventy-nine percent of scores were four or five. Those are strong results.”

SPS WINTER DEBATE TEAM SEASON IN REVIEW

Asher Gupta '26

This winter, the SPS Debate Team rocked New England with impressive results. The team traveled across the region to a set of debate competitions throughout New England, including at Choate Rosemary Hall, Loomis Chaffee, St. Sebastian’s and Buckingham Browne & Nichols, before concluding with an intramural competition right here at SPS.

The tournaments consisted of a mix of Parliamentary Extemporaneous debate, in which students had ten minutes to prepare speeches between three and eight minutes in length; impromptu speaking competitions, in which students had two minutes to prepare a speech of three to five minutes in length; and Oregon-style cross-examination debate. SPS Debaters performed well in all formats,

bringing home several awards throughout the season.

The team trained every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, which was instru-

"The

SPS Debate Team rocked New England"

mental in its success; usually, the team engaged in practice debates with coaches, ranging from serious topics such as the role of Jeff Bezos’s Amazon in America and settlements for harassment to more lighthearted

topics like whether Santa Claus should be considered a criminal.

Although many debaters were new to the program at SPS, all students managed to work together to secure accolades, such as winning first place at Choate and St. Sebastian’s and second at Loomis Chaffee. These competitions featured a wide range of debate topics, from whether or not candidates for president over 70 should be barred from running to whether or not Taylor Swift lives up to the hype and whether or not pineapples should be pizza toppings.

In addition to the team's substantial winnings as a School, four-person teams, two-person teams and individuals returned to SPS with plaques for their rankings, with most debate team members winning at least one of these awards. To top it all off, two de-

bate team members qualified for the Debate World Championships.

The team is incredibly excited for SPS to continue its strong debate performances next fall and winter, with competitions at schools across the region set to happen.

Graphic by Kennedy Hinojosa '24

Graphic by Julia Koeman '25

Graphic by Samantha Seely '23

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HALLOWED SPRING TRADITIONS AT SPS

St. Paul's School traditions that many students have looked forward to for countless spring seasons

Thad Lucentini '25

The end of the Winter Term and setting our sights on spring brings much to look forward to. Scenes of longer days, warmer sunshine, and a campus covered with beautiful flowers and green grass may drift through the minds of SPS students. Outside the classrooms and off the fields, there will also be a number of campus traditions.

One of the School’s most beloved spring traditions is MISH. For new students who have not experienced a MISH holiday before, picture a better version of Cricket. Once MISH is announced, all students receive extended check so that they can attend a fun, themed dance. There’s no reason to go to bed early that night because classes are canceled the following day. Students enjoy a muchneeded sleep-in, followed by a Sunday-style brunch and all-day town hours. Of all the surprise holidays, MISH is the most creative and fun, which gives the whole school something to look forward to in the weeks ahead.

For public speaking enthusiasts, the

Hugh Camp Cup competition is the year's biggest event. Every spring, students write a speech on a topic of their choice and present it to their Humanities class. For the bravest and most passionate students, there is the opportunity to deliver the speech in front of the entire School in a competition whose winner is decided by a popular vote. The Hugh Camp Cup is one of the best opportunities at school to hear the stories of people you might never have spoken to and even to tell your own.

"One of the School's most beloved spring traditions is MISH"

Although they are not specific to the Spring Term, seated meals are a longstanding tradition at St. Paul’s that we are lucky to

have. Despite taking an unexpected break due to COVID-19, seated meals have returned to the School and hopefully are here to stay. “Seeing the faces of my peers as they delve into conversation is one of my favorite parts of SPS community life,” says Michael Nechipurenko ‘24,

Trips to the Lower School Pond docks are a unique spring tradition. "I like to take advantage of the opportunity to spend time outdoors,” says Cora Partridge ‘24. Many people enjoy swimming at the docks when the weather is nice, but for the Form of 2024, the Lower School Pond docks are often a unique opportunity to spend time together as a form. Anyone who has been to the boathouse on a warm sunny day knows how crowded the docks can get.

Hopefully, everyone will find some tradition this spring that they will enjoy. Our School’s history and customs make it a special school, and the Spring Term is the perfect time to take advantage of everything this school offers.

St. Paul’s students are constantly inundated with academics, sports, music, and clubs. Making time to give back to the community can be challenging. However, “bearing the burdens of others,” as our school prayer says, remains a pivotal aspect of our school’s core values.

Service can be emotionally rewarding when completed sincerely. The Service Learning Program at SPS, which consists of volunteering at the Manchester Food Bank and the Rundlett Middle School, allows students to explore and participate in community service. According to Associate Dean of Students Robb Arndt, the coordinator of the Service Learning Program, “For SPS students, I think these opportunities enable us to broaden our perspectives and provide some clarity to what it means to lead a purposeful life in service to the greater good.”

Participants in the service learning program at Rundlett Middle School travel to the school every Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoon to participate in the program called 21C, where they hang out with the kids, play games and activities, and get to know them on a personal level, serving as mentors for these students going into high school.

“Being at St. Paul’s, we are in a bubble,” says Bella Perry ‘25. “We are so lucky and so privileged here that sometimes it's hard to think about the struggles that are happening in our own town. Being with the kids was super enlightening.” This program provides an outlet to step into the real world and engage in volunteer work that genuinely impacts our larger community, even though that influence may be small.

At the food bank, students organize and clean the food pantries and connect and communicate with customers’ needs. In addition to the physical service, students say they garner in-depth insights about wealth inequality in New Hampshire.

“It inspired me, in my own city of San Francisco, which has a lot of homelessness problems, to start volunteering at shelters there and try to help organizations that are working to solve these crises, which has been very rewarding,” says Liv MacMillan ‘25. “It’s important to make sure that you’re getting the most out of the experience instead of focusing on getting the credit.”

Sheldon captured from across the pond // Photo by Vin Chutijirawong '25

STELLA AT SYA: SPRING IN RENNES

Stella McNab '25

As you might be able to picture, springtime in France, specifically Rennes, is truly beautiful. French citizens begin to fill the streets, and the Saturday market is full of fresh citruses and flowers as people from around the world file in to visit the famed Marché des Lices.

At my school, there is one particular window in the French classroom where we have long awaited, and now successfully seen, the most beautiful pink flowers blooming on the trees.

The French cherish spring, and it’s a time of year when moods begin to lift, and friends and family come together to enjoy the turn of the winter season. We spend our time lounging in parks around Rennes, soaking in the sun, and enjoying the company of those surrounding us.

For me, spring in Rennes has been a time where I have been able to reflect on my year in France as I’m left with merely two months before I have to return to the United States. I’m learning how to appreciate the current moment and taking the time to literally smell the flowers.

My habit of looking many months ahead has quickly shifted into living each day as they come. At dinner with my host mom, I enjoy homemade pizza and anecdotes from her day as a school teacher without thinking of tomorrow when we’ll run through a similar routine. Lunches at Jean Macé, the French school, which used to be repetitive, have now become a stable rock in my daily schedule.

I have learned countless lessons in France, as many lessons as there are pink flowers blooming on the tree outside my classroom. But by far, the most important lesson I have taken away is to appreciate each day as it comes, and my goal when I return to the US is to continue following this philosophy.

Thank you, spring. Thank you, Rennes.

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CAMPUS SPOTLIGHT: MR. ROBARGE

Wrenn Ragsdale '26

In the heart of our school lies a hub of culinary activity and innovation: the St. Paul’s School dining hall, affectionately known as the Upper. Under the stewardship of Director of Dining Services Paul Robarge, the Upper is more than just a place to eat; it's a testament to the culinary excellence and sustainability our FLIK Dining strives to achieve.

Robarge, a seasoned food service professional from Pepperell, Massachusetts, brings over 30 years of experience to our school. His journey from a Catering Director and Executive Chef to his current role as St. Paul’s showcases his passion for cooking, finance, and organization. A professed family man with three children and a small dog named Lily, Robarge says he uses his deep-rooted values to foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the dining hall.

According to Robarge, the Upper operates with a robust team: “We employ over twenty folks in the front of the house,” he says, “whose role it is to set-up, maintain, clean, organize, greet, and repeat. An addi-

tional fifteen plus team members are located in the back of the house – the kitchen – and these folks do all preparation, cooking, executing of meals, and end their day by cleaning as well.”

Robarge also manages the FLIK staffers who work out of the Upper. “An additional team of about five folks also produces all meals at the daily Grab & Go location, the nightly Kwok Café, and all catering operations on campus,” he says. The management team handles crucial aspects like food safety, menu planning and staff management.

During a recent in-person tour, Robarge highlighted the kitchen's exceptional safety standards, evident in their 99.5% sanitation rating. This commitment, he says, extends beyond cleanliness, encompassing rigorous food safety and hygiene practices.

Robarge explains that sustainability is a key focus of FLIK’s planning with the kitchen staff, he says, meticulously measuring and strategizing to reduce food waste. The waste produced is converted into compost.

Looking ahead, Robarge says he is spearheading a project to revamp the Kwok Café following spring break. This endeavor, he says, will introduce a new menu and a dedicated team to elevate the dining experience further.

Robarge says he cherishes interactions

with students and staff, enjoying their feedback and appreciation. His enjoyment of working with the culinary team is palpable when discussing menu authenticity, flavor, execution and efficiencies.

The Flik food philosophy, Robarge says, “focuses on origins, authenticity, and seasonality, which guides menu planning. This philosophy ensures that meals are both delicious and aligned with broader principles of quality and sustainability.”

Robarge explains that his typical day is dynamic, reflecting the varied needs of the dining hall’s operation. With a flexible schedule, he says he actively participates in all areas: one day he might work as a baker or a dishwasher, while on other days he might be a server or janitor. “Most days” he says, “I am focused on collaborating with everyone to achieve their goals, and also to ensure that all teams within our location are functioning well.”

Throughout The Pelican’s visit to the Upper and interview, it is evident that Robarge and his team's dedication transcends meal preparation. It's about creating a dining experience that nourishes, delights, and brings the school community together.

LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF: MRS. BETH LITTLE

Beth Little

To: 1999 Beth

From: 2024 Beth

Dear Beth, How’s junior year? Tough? I know. I lived it. I’m you, just older and I have that hindsight is 20-20 thing going for me, so I have some thoughts. I know you probably won’t listen. You’re in that don’t you tell me what I already know phase but maybe try. Just take it in.

Alright, let’s talk. In no particular order:

Mr. Heavey doesn’t hate you. He gave you a B- on your Huckleberry Finn essay because he expects more from you. That’s what the B- means. It’s not going to help you improve as a writer if you focus on all

the ways he has done you wrong and how he’s an unfair grader… just work harder. Write better. You can do it (Note: you’re going to make a living on teaching this stuff one day, so embrace it).

You know how it feels to you, sitting in Mrs. Clough’s creative writing class right now, writing, creating, telling stories? Notice it. Don’t let ideas about money and “important jobs” and other peoples’ versions of “success” sway you from the work that makes you happy, feeds you, makes you light up (Note: you will veer from this path, but you’ll find it again).

I know your crew team has never won a race, three years, not ever, but do you love itthe way the boat feels as it picks up out of the water, lifts and glides, moves? Yes. So stick with it because of that feeling (Note: You’ll do crew for 5 more years of your life and you still won’t win, but that feeling will remain and that’s a reason to keep doing it).

The boy you love is about to break up with you at the Dave Matthews Band concert, and it’s going to hurt. DO NOT sit in your car, in the rain, listening to Leanne Rimes “How Do I Live” - it’s not a good look. DO get back up,

keep looking, you’ll find what you’re looking for (Note: Wait for the people who see you for you. They are out there).

A group of three best friends never works, at least for you. Someone is always left out (Note: those “friends” are not going to be your lifelong friends, so let them and their judgments go. You don’t need them. Your real best friends are coming).

When you don’t get the lead in the musical, it’s not because you’re not good. It’s because you don’t yet believe that you’re good. Believe it. (Note: Sing louder, bigger. Don’t worry about what other people think because it doesn’t matter. Your voice is yours. So, use it).

I won’t say it’s all going to work out because life’s not over yet, and we can’t be certain about anything. But it’s not about that. It’s about the friends, the joy, the tears, the moments you choose to move forward that matter. You have had and will have lots of those - so keep on keeping on.

You got this, as they say.

Love you, Beth

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ROGUE: JOJO SIWA, THE BACHELOR, AND MORE

Hi Rougers!!! We’re back! Hope your spring breaks were rougetastic. Jumping right into it. Both our brackets are busted for March Madness. However, we’d like to highlight the magical experience of rooting for the underdog. The Auburn v. Yale game was electric and all we wanted to see was the bulldogs come through. Bowwow. We’ve also been watching Zach Edey absolutely tower over his meager opponents, and it leaves one

wondering: how can someone be that tall? Nel on EJ’s shoulders might possibly match up.

As we’ve embarked on this article, we’d like to preface that we are man down on the pop culture references this issue. This past month, EJ has made the courageous decision to rid herself of the toxins that are Tiktok, Instagram, and most prevalent: Snapchat. EJ’s reflections on the experience: “Revolutionary,

Freeing, Boring.” She’d largely recommend that others follow suit under the condition that they give her credit.“In a word of sheep, be a shepherd,” she says.

Moving on, we know you’ve seen the Jojo Siwa rebrand. One word: Gobsmacked. We’d love to see Fundefied take some inspo from the new seizure-like dance moves from her most recent promo videos. This may shock you, but we actually would like to give her some kudos. While her rebrand is short of groundbreaking, she should serve as a role model for your own spring term makeover. New term, new you. We hope you are more successful than Miss Jojo.

Winter term was filled with many ups

and downs but a constant in all of our lives was Bachelor Monday. As spring term begins, Bachelor Nation wrapped up in an epic finale that was largely over dramatized in commercials. Great moments are born from great opportunity and that’s what Joey had this past season. After ups and downs, maria misfortune, and intense emotion, Kelsey stole Joey's heart and the final rose. We wish the happy couple all the best, and our heart goes out to Daisy and all of her supporters.

Get ready for a fantastic spring of Rogues, Roguers. We just adore you.

Xoxo, Nel and EJ

STYLE COLUMN: JONAH FARKAS

After numerous requests, I feel it is my duty to feature Third Former Jonah Farkas, in the style column. While Farkas and I have never crossed paths previously, after writing this article, I see that he has certainly lived up to the hype of his compadres.

So let's get started. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Farkas draws inspiration from the streetwear style as it tends to be more popular where he lives. He says, “I am inspired by the works of Virgil Abloh, and Lerry Lorenzo Jr.” and believes, “rather than just playing with colors, they incorporate unique elements into their creations.” However, Farkas likes to add his own flare to streetwear, by mixing in preppy pieces, like sweaters and Polos, that are more popular at St. Paul’s. Farkas enjoys experimenting with his style as he feels, “there is no ‘correct’ answer, and you get to style your outfit the way you want.”

But let’s backtrack for a second. The journey in fashion for Farkas began in the 7th grade. He explains that in middle school he began collecting sneakers, and says, “since then, I’ve amassed over 20 pairs.” Today, shoe choice remains an instrumental part of creating his day-to-day outfits. But putting together outfits is not just dependent on footwear. Farkas says, “If I'm feeling laid-back, I might opt for sweats; for a brighter mood, I'll incorporate colorful or standout pieces; and for a more subdued vibe, I'll stick to neutrals.”

For Farkas, style is all about what YOU like. And additionally, you only understand what YOU like by trying out different pieces that may take you out of your comfort zone.

Farkas advises, “To start off with the basics: get a pair of cargo’s, a pair of baggy jeans, a nice hoodie and a pair of sneakers.” When you can get a few different types of basic pieces you already have many different outfit options. Additionally, he knows that while buying clothing for the label can be tempting, it is not worth it. This does not go to say that all designer brands are bad, but Farkas says, “it’s only worth it if the piece you buy has a cool aspect to it whether it’s how the piece fits, a graphic design, or made from unique material.”

"I still don't know who I want to be when I grow up, and I believe my style will continue to evolve with me as I find myself"

But most importantly, Farkas reminds us never to feel stuck or isolated by style. Just like we all are changing as people, our style can change as well. He says, “I still don’t know who I want to be when I grow up, and I believe my style will continue to evolve with me as I find myself and my purpose.”

Photo Courtesy of Jonah Farkas '27

Elizabeth Johnson '25 and Nel Peter '25

Lidia Zur Muhlen '24

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ARCHIVES COLUMN: WARREN HOUSE

Initially titled the “Friendly House,” this St. Paul’s School building has been around since World War I. Dedicated in the shadow of the end of the First World War, Friendly House was originally built as a place of recreation for the school’s employees. This building allowed for large spaces for employees to

play music, dance, listen to lectures, watch moving picture shows, and have room to rest in cases of sickness. However, renovations in 1988 turned what was previously a space for faculty into Warren House, the dormitory we know today. Adding a central common area as well as reorganizing the building layout to accommodate student rooms and faculty housing, Warren House soon became one of the largest dorms on campus.

MAKING THE MOST OF THE MISH HOLIDAY AT ST. PAUL'S

As the spring sun begins to thaw the remnants of winter’s chill at St. Paul's, a palpable buzz of excitement and mystery envelops the campus. This phenomenon isn’t just any spring fever; it’s the anticipation of MISH, a mysterious yet cherished tradition woven into the fabric of the SPS community.

To any new Paulie, the term MISH might initially suggest confusion or a chaotic mix. However, there's no need for concern. Far from being a disorganized jumble, MISH is a delightful spring celebration thoughtfully organized by our Missionary Society, which also lends its name to the event. MISH, an acronym enveloped in as much tradition as

the celebration itself, signals an unexpected pause from the rigorous demands of academic and athletic pursuits during the Spring Term. It begins with an announcement by the Missionary Society, a group of students dedicated to bolstering our School's community impact. This announcement sets the stage for an all-School dance, leading to a day without classes. This break provides students with a much-needed opportunity to breathe and immerse themselves in the splendor of spring.

This unique holiday begins with rumors and guesses swirling around campus about its date, adding to the excitement and sus-

EDWIN'S AMAZING OMELETS

When I visited St. Paul's for the first time last year, I could not have heard enough about the omelet bar. Based on what my tour guide and other students were telling me, the delicious, made-to-order omelets were a highlight of campus. I was so intrigued that at my first breakfast here, I decided to test out one of Edwin’s creations for myself. I was blown away and, like most of us, immediately hooked. Even during my busiest weeks, I have made indulging in an omelet a priority at least once a week.

So, you may be wondering, what makes these omelets so special? You must supply Edwin with the perfect assortment of ingredients for him to cook to perfection. With all the options, how do you choose? First off, I put spinach in my bowl. It's a healthy choice that adds a little texture to the omelet. Then I add onions. A lot of them. When grilled to perfection, the onions add a nice crunch. Next comes a small scoop of broccoli to balance out the flavor. As a fan of spice, I love to add a little kick to my morning with some juicy jalapenos. I cannot stand mushrooms. I also dislike the slimy texture of tomatoes, so I leave both out of my omelet. With the veggies out of the way, my bowl is usually about three-fourths of the way full.

Now, it is time for the meat. You can choose between ham and sausage or take

pense. The announcement is made with the Missionary Society revealing the day and theme of the event. Last year in Chapel, Mish was announced as a glow-in-the-dark dance in Raffini Commons. When the announcement finally comes, it’s a rush to prepare for the evening’s festivities while managing classes and athletics that continue despite the evening’s events.

The day after the dance, the campus takes on a different character. The usual hustle and academic fervor give way to a more relaxed, festive atmosphere. Pelicans often sleep in, savoring the rare luxury of a slow morning. Many venture into Concord to dine with friends, shop, or simply enjoy the change of scenery. While some flock to the Chapel lawn, which becomes a gathering spot for those seeking to relax and relish the springtime weather, others organize trips to Boston or nearby towns to explore and take advantage of the rare opportunity to travel beyond Concord.

both, which I usually do. Ham adds a rich texture and flavor to the omelet, as well as a good amount of protein for a well-nourished day. I take a liberal helping until the bowl is full. Next comes sausage. Sausage serves a similar purpose to ham but with a more interesting flavor profile. Once the bowl is just slightly overflowing, I know it is time to hand my ingredients off to Edwin and let him work his magic.

There are a variety of preparation options to choose from. The best, by far, is a double omelet without cheese! The double omelet packs twice the punch of your standard omelet. It acts as a meal in and of itself–a filling start to the day. I have nothing against cheese, but I never ask for it on my omelet because it steals too much attention from the rich flavors of the other toppings. Although I have yet to try a scramble, I hear they are quite tasty as well, especially the double scrambles. Before I dig into my double omelet, I never forget to add a splash of Cholula hot sauce for some spice.

It takes time to prepare an omelet correctly. Edwin has the patience to cook each egg to perfection, slowly but surely preparing all of the toppings inside. What makes Edwin’s omelets truly magical is that he knows my name, as well as the names of all of his other regular customers. Edwin is truly passionate about his job, and his omelets are just exquisite.

For first-time MISH celebrants, my best advice is to embrace the day without overplanning. The essence of MISH lies in its spontaneity and the joy of the unexpected. Whether you’re sleeping in, enjoying a leisurely brunch, spending time with friends, going to town, or just relaxing, the day is yours to enjoy in whatever way makes you happiest.

However, beyond the fun and festivities, MISH carries more profound significance. It’s a reminder of our School's robust tradition and the importance of taking a moment to breathe amidst SPS’s academic fury. Let’s make the most of this day in the spirit of MISH. Let’s celebrate the joy of being part of this community and the beauty of spring at SPS. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor, enjoying the tranquility of the Chapel lawn, or adventuring beyond Concord, remember that MISH is about finding joy in the moment and each other.

Photo courtesy of the SPS Archives

Mathis Riff '27

Cole Hamilton '24

Wrenn Ragsdale '26

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SPS CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Henry Dennis '24

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THEATER COLUMN: THE MUSICAL ERA BEGINS

Andrew Choi '25

In a thrilling announcement before spring break, the Theater Department unveiled the much-anticipated selection for this year's spring musical: "The Addams Family." Students, faculty, and theater enthusiasts alike have been buzzing with excitement at the prospect of bringing this iconic and quirky family to life on stage.

For those unfamiliar with the eerie and eccentric clan, "The Addams Family" is a beloved classic that originated as a comic strip before finding success in various adaptations, including television series, films, and, of course, musical theater. The story revolves around the delightfully macabre Addams family as they navigate a series of hilarious and spooky misadventures, all while grappling with the challenges of love, family, and acceptance. With its darkly comedic humor, catchy musical numbers, and memorable characters, "The Addams Family" promises to be an unforgettable production that will captivate audiences of all ages.

With the production having been announced before spring break, the next step was for students to audition for either a role as a lead or as a member of the ensemble dur-

ing the stressful times of the last week of Winter Term. Since the beginning of the Spring Term, cast and crew members have been putting in eager and passionate effort into each rehearsal. The magic of creating theater has finally started!

The Theater Director Kirsten McKinney shares her love for the SPS musical and gives her vision for the musical at the early stages of rehearsals: “Every theater performance, as we know, is special; however, a musical is the perfect combination of heart and intellect. The music speaks to our soul and the lyrics speak to our mind. Together, with all the other elements, when done well, it is magical. Intertwining roots is my image for the show. Based on the family tree concept, but more about what lies underneath. This is a beautiful journey of love, discovery, and truth. As I work more on the show, the message that resonates with me is, that familial love is universal.

Stay tuned for the theater column for all the latest developments on "The Addams Family" and other upcoming productions. You already know it’s going to be a season filled with thrills, chills, and plenty of theatrical magic.

THE SPS COMIC

Luke Wolfram '27

Alexi Mangriotis '27

Every spring, millions of sports fans turn their attention to the Men’s NCAA March Madness Tournament. The 67-game single-elimination tournament offers a showdown of the most elite men’s college basketball teams over three weeks. The games are played nationwide, and Arizona will host the Final Four this year.

Although the NBA is more popular than college basketball, March Madness ropes in double the viewers of the NBA playoffs. Every single game is packed with excitement, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. The tournament is unpredictable and exciting, from huge upsets to incredible comebacks. Strategically placed in the middle of March,

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MARCH MADNESS COVERAGE

shouldered between the winter NFL season and the spring MLB season, the NCAA faces little viewership competition from other significant sports events.

But most importantly, March Madness is so famous because of the March Madness Bracket Challenge. Much like Fantasy Football, the bracket engages viewers because there is something staked on the games. According to the NCAA, between 60 and 100 million brackets are filled out each year. A lot of people just fill out the brackets for fun. Still, some are dedicated beyond common comprehension, spending months preparing for their shot at achieving the highly illustrious, perfect March Madness Bracket. At the surface level, this achievement seems somewhat impressive. After all, 100

COACH HIGHLIGHT: COACH CRUTCHFIELD

It’s not every day that a school finds a coach as motivated and caring as Coach Heather Crutchfield. It’s even less frequent that the community gets to learn from one for nearly 40 years. Crutchfield is an integral piece of our community and has impacted countless students at SPS. MCrutchfield attributes her many years here to her love of people and sports and watching kids learn and grow. She explains, “The day I stop loving sports and loving working with kids is the day I will stop. And that is probably the day I die.”

Since 1985, Crutchfield has been the head coach of Field Hockey and Girls Lacrosse here at St. Paul’s. She doesn’t prefer either sport, but rather just loves whatever season it is. The technical aspect of field hockey and the speed and creativity in lacrosse sparked her love for each sport. One of her favorite things is to take a raw, gritty athlete and make them into a confident field hockey or lacrosse player. Crutchfield has two rare talents: one, for spotting a good athlete, and two, the ability to grow them into the game. For lacrosse, she notes the pure athleticism of the sport and the immense amount of creativity that is allowed.

Crutchfield grew up playing softball, track and field, basketball, and field hockey. She was recruited to play field hockey at UNH, but in the process, her coach recommended that she also play lacrosse in college. She had never played lacrosse before, but

agreed, and was a starter in her very first college lacrosse game, because that is just the type of athlete she is.

Many of us have learned so much from her, and she believes that she is paying forward all that has been given to her. Crutchfield notes that her high school and middle school coach has had such an impact in forming her character, and now it's her turn. She feels blessed to be given the opportunity to spend time with students all day, as not many adults get to love their job as much as she does. Watching kids develop and have that “aha” moment in sports is one of her favorite things about coaching, as well as seeing a sense of pride grow and helping kids realize that they can become who they want to be. If we can pay back what Crutchfield has given to this school, then we certainly have a lot of work ahead of us.

million brackets are filled out every year, and surely, one may think, there are some winners every once in a while. In actuality, though, a perfect March Madness bracket has never been accomplished. The odds of winning vary on how much basketball you know, but an average fan has a 1 in a 120 billion shot of a perfect bracket. The odds are so stacked against having a perfect bracket that Warren Buffett offered $1 billion to anyone in his firm to achieve it. Although skill can play a factor in how well your bracket does, there is no way really to predict every upset without blatant luck. So, don’t feel bad if your bracket flopped in the first game.

So whether you think it's all luck or all skill, the March Madness bracket brings people together from all over the country as

America becomes enthralled with a relentless slate of college basketball games.

WHAT GOES ON IN CLUB HOCKEY?

Ingrid Cassidy '25

Every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the winter term at St. Paul’s School, the Gordon and Ingalls rinks buzz with excitement. As the afternoon fades into evening, spectators gathered to witness the Girls and Boys Varsity and JV hockey teams compete on the ice. Yet, the real excitement of the afternoon at the Hockey Center begins long before these teams step onto the ice. At the ripe hour of 1:30 pm, a different breed of action begins, often overlooked but deeply cherished by those in the know. Many consider the Club Hockey games to be a hidden treasure at St. Paul’s.

Three-year Club Hockey athlete Pierre Lokhandwala ‘25 emphasized the profound sense of community and team spirit that draws both athletes and spectators to these games time and again. With its well-matched red and white teams, along with a dedicated fan base, Club Hockey epitomizes a “fun type of competitive,” Lokhandwala emphasizes. “Cheering each other on and even cheering for the opposing team creates an electrifying atmosphere.”

Science Teacher Ben MacBride, the Director of Club Hockey and occasional ingame referee, echoes this sentiment. He says

his fondest moments revolve around witnessing the players revel in the joy of the game, working tirelessly to improve not just their skills but also their character. MacBride notes how rewarding it is, “seeing everyone have fun, work hard, and grow as players and as people.” Many of these athletes, unfamiliar with skating let alone hockey, find themselves drawn to the challenge of mastering a new sport. MacBride describes that students “working hard to overcome those challenges to become better” is truly inspiring.

Club Hockey, which may be a recreational pastime, serves as a crucial step in personal development and growth. Lokhandwala attests to this, citing the invaluable lessons that Club Hockey taught them: “be more of a team player,” “learn to communicate,” and “work better in a group.”

Whether you are seeking a new winter afternoon activity or something fun to do on winter Wednesdays and Saturdays, Club Hockey has plenty of space in its close-knit community for new athletes and new fans. You are highly encouraged to embark on this journey of personal growth if you are struggling to find a winter sport for next year!

Graphic by Cole Hamilton '24

Meg Bohan '25

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BOYS VARSITY HOCKEY SHINES THROUGH ADVERSITY

This year, the Boys Varsity Hockey team has had a great season, but one position in particular has been riddled with injuries. After a strong showing in the early season games, Treva Murphy ‘25 was injured in January. After this, the first JV goalie call-up occurred, with Will Birks ‘26 coming up to fill the backup goalie position. Birks had a solid start to the season on JV, but faced with a call-up, he had the chance to prove himself on a bigger stage.

As soon as he gained the varsity bid, Birks was encouraged by the team. “I have always felt included; they have been super supportive,” he says. “The team comes over and taps me on the pads at the start of every game." This led to an encouraging and welcoming spirit. The team atmosphere allowed Birks to succeed as the backup goalie and

work hard to improve, all while the current starting varsity goalie, Blake Truchon ‘26, supported the team in the net. After Truchon was injured during a game in February, Birks became the starting goalie on varsity, and the second JV goalie was called up to fill the gaps in varsity's roster.

Owen Right ‘26 started on JV in close competition with Birks, but when Birks moved up to varsity, Right firmly held the starting position and gained a lot of game experience, so he was ready to be called up. Following Truchon’s injury, Right immediately stepped up. “Varsity has been a really fun and exciting experience as well as really good for development," he says.

As the pair approached the end of the season, both had positive thoughts on the team's performance and culture. “The team has been doing much better than when I was with them at the start of the season, and it’s been really fun to play with them," Right says. Birks agrees. “The team did well, having

a good dynamic and playing competitively.”

Luckily for Boys Hockey, there was an abundance of goalies this year, while last year there were only three in the entire program.

As the team looks forward to next season, the goalie position will be filled again by several healthy goalies ready to take on the challenges they face next season.

Theo Christoffersen '26

Boys Varsity Hockey huddles around coaches Murphy and Harff // Photographed by Vin Chutijirawong '25