Nov 21, 2014

TSTRATFORD HE

RACLE O

Saying No to Stereotyping pg. 3 Cross Country Wins State pg. 14 Stratford’s First All-American Volleyball Player pg. 15

Friday, November 21, 2014 Volume 42, Issue 4 shsoracle.com

GAP YEAR

TAKING A

pgs. 8-9

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Quit whining, and study Finals aren’t fun, but worth your time

STRATFORD ORACLE STAFF 2014-15 Editors-in-Chief Justin Todes Scott Kennedy

OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD

With November halfway over, the dreaded time of year is approaching: finals week.

This terrible torture of eight tests that account for 20 percent of our semester grades may seem cruel and unusual to some. But in reality, these tests show mastery of coursework, and should be treated as such.

Finals are important because they require us to think back on what we have learned throughout the semester, and ensure that we actually understand what we’ve been taught.

Some may argue that finals are irrelevant and stressful for students that already score well in their classes. If someone has an A in a class, isn’t that a good enough sign that they’ve mastered the material?

Take a typical junior Pre-Cal class for example. At the beginning of the year, students learn about the application unit circle values, which are pivotal throughout the year.

With our society of short attention spans and bad memory, it is doubtful that these students will remember their unit circle values three months later, but that does not make this information any less important.

Regardless of when lessons are taught, all concepts are important and necessary in order for students to understand the class. Something is needed to remind students of the information covered, and a test is the most efficient way to do so.

Even students who have high six-week grades have trouble retaining course material. If anything, finals should be more important to these students if they wish to keep their high GPAs and

master the material.

Finals are especially important in AP classes, which have national exams at the end of the year. In AP U.S. History, students need to retain information from the beginning of the year, so a mid-year refresher helps them in the long run.

Ultimately, finals are important because they reassure that we have actually learned the material, and not forgotten it over the course of a long semester.

That’s really why we spend our time in class: to learn the material.

Right?

That should be the case, but many people simply don’t care about learning. Standards of laziness and apathy have made us focus less on actually learning in school and focus more on how little we can do to get by.

Students complain about studying for finals because it takes up time that they would rather spend doing something else. This is understandable.

Nobody really enjoys studying. But after many years in the education system, shouldn’t we have gotten over it by now?

If we spent as much time studying for finals as we do complaining about finals, then maybe they wouldn’t be so bad.

The argument against final exams is just another example of how we as a society have gotten more and more lazy. We argue that finals are ineffective for multiple reasons, but the main reason why we don’t want to take finals is simply because we don’t want to take finals.

School is being treated less like an institution of learning

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and more as a requirement of the government. Students try to do as little as possible in order to pass. This is an unhealthy attitude to have.

Seniors especially fall victim to this kind of thinking. They take on the false belief that their grades no longer matter and that there is little point in trying to understand the material. There is some truth to this, as grades are mostly locked in by the time seniors have applied to colleges, but it’s not really the grades that matter.

The point of school is not to get high grades, or to get good enough grades to scrape by. The point of school is to learn. And in order to learn, we must be able to challenge and test ourselves to be sure that what we have learned remains true.

Because of this, finals are an important part of retaining the material that we learn in school, and are therefore necessary in the learning process.

If we don’t master the material that we learn, then the time we spend in school is wasted.

And time is not something that we can afford to waste. It is time that we get over it, suck it up, quit whining, and start studying for finals because, when it comes down to it, they are important in the long run.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Editorial Board is comprised of five senior members of the Oracle staff. The Board forms collective opinions on issues, and opinions pieces written by the Board reflect the views of the majority of its members.

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Associate Editor Ashley Karolys

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Opinions Editors Emily Fishman David Humphrey

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News Editors Cameron Henkel Maxine Tran Culture Editors Ashleigh Garrett Olivia Siciliano Sports Editor Jacqui Comparin

Photo Editors Maggie Vickers Rebecca Williamson

Taylor Brittain Photographers Arturo Benitez Abigail Boessling Riley Timmreck Devin Mitchell Matthew Makowski Christi Gregory Suzy Frazelle Gabby Broussard Hannah Davis Tea Sharp Katie Henkel

Reporters Taylor Morris Tina Kang Noelle Flores Caroline Harger Devin Mitchell

Ads Editors Abbey Duke Emily Copeland Sarah Sturgis Ads Staff Rebecca Tarver Kendall Marbach Phoebe Lamay

Harper Jones Lindsey Jenkins Natalie Raley Grace Heckmann Emily Brown Lauren Carr Kara Ferguson Matthew Chavira Design Editor Victoria Shin Staff Artists Erica Jeon Molly Richter Rachel Torres Allison Rice Claire Pena Building Principal Christopher Juntti Advisor Janice Cummons

*Editorial Board Members

Cover Graphic: Front page graphics by Victoria Shin and Scott Kennedy, photos courtesy of those featured on pgs. 8-9 The Oracle newspaper is the official, school-sponsored student media of Stratford High School, 14555 Fern, Houston, Texas 77079, 713-251-3454.

The Oracle is published monthly by the Journalism Department, and is also available online at shsoracle.com. The newspaper is a member of Columbia Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association, and Interscholastic League Press Conference.

The paper is printed by Greater Dallas Press in a press run of 1500 copies.

The paper is also available on shsoracle. com.

All letters to the editor must be typed and contain the author’s full name, grade and signature. Submitted material is subject to editing based on space and/or content. The opinions expressed are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors, the staff, the administration or the school district.

The Oracle serves as a public forum of student expression, and is open to contributions submitted by the readers.

Readers may submit material via email to info@shsoracle.com.

The Oracle staff strives to produce a newspaper that covers the entire Stratford community, and welcomes freelance submissions.

The staff is responsible for the content of the publication, and strives maintain professional standards of accuracy, objectivity and fairness. The editors reserve the right to determine whether submissions will be published.

More than just turkey and gravy

Why Thanksgiving is the best holiday of all OPINION OF SARAH STURGIS

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GRAPHIC BY ALLISON RICE Thanksgiving is a sacred holiday to many Everybody needs some time to take a deep breath and sit back for a in the United States. We take some time off few days every once in a while. from our busy and stressful lives at work Eating is also an essenand school to remind ourselves of what we tial part of celebrating. The are thankful for.

As kids we celebrated by draw- celebration of Thanksgiving turkeys, but now as adults we sit ing is historically about around a table and talk, spending time gathering to eat and simwith our loved ones. It’s a holiday sur- ply enjoy one another’s The turkey, rounded by thankfulness and food. company. stuffing, gravy, mashed Thanksgiving is the best holipotatoes, cranberry sauce, day because it gives us time to relax, eat, and spend time with our families. and dessert that make the tie spent together even better.

The food is definitely one of my favorite parts of the holiday, but being with family and friends is why we celebrate.

Thanksgiving is solely about being thankful and being around those you love, while other holidays can have a lot more distractions.

Christmas, for instance, has gifts, Santa, vacations, and business that keeps us from sitting back and remembering how blessed we are for all we have.

With Thanksgiving, we get time off to eat together and laugh together without the stress that can come with celebrating Christmas.

Thanksgiving also comes at a perfect time in the fall semester. The last break we had was Columbus Day and our next is in December, making November timing completely perfect. It refreshes us for the last few weeks before winter break, which includes finals for us.

Thanksgiving is easily the best holiday for food, but it also gives us time to relax after an intense and challenging semester of school and be prepared for finals.

This holiday is truly the best of the year.

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10 Days Until Expulsion

an opinion of

SCOTT KENNEDY If given 10 days until certain expulsion, there would be a few things I’d want to do first:

1. Steal the Crispitos recipe

and auction it off to the highest bidder.

2. Slip ‘n Slide on the first floor courtyard hallways after it rains.

3. Rearrange the classroom

numbers on the doors before the first day of school.

4. Leave suddenly and draERICA JEON

No one is ‘Typical’ Pumpkin Spices Lattes are so typical white girl. We’ve all heard it.

But has anyone ever stopped to consider that stereotypes like this could be harmful? When we stereotype, we horribly misjudge others and take away any hope of individuality.

People are far more complex than their race, gender, or sexuality.

When society places labels on individuals, it is constricting and leads to sweeping generalizations about them, creating the belief that they cannot break that constricting, stereotypical mold.

We all fall into the dangerous habit of stereotyping. For some, it seems easier to put people into boxes, fulfilling a natural desire for order and categorization.

It’s easier for some to assume that all boys like football than to consider that some might not enjoy the sport. Stereotypes allow for little variation among complex and individualized human beings.

We can never truly know all of the ins and outs of another person, so we feel the need to make assumptions to fill the gaps in our understanding.

But when we associate characteristics with someone based on preconceived notions, we are as-

Stereotypical labels create closed-mindedness, harm society OPINION OF EMILY FISHMAN

signing labels to people, and human beings are far more sophisticated than a label.

Take the common misconception that all little girls should play with dolls. This is based on the belief that little girls are concerned with stereotypically “girly” things like clothes and shoes. This myth has become so pervasive that girls grow up constantly believing that they will be judged for attempting to be different.

Little girls play with dolls and little boys play with Legos, the stereotype says, and people wonder why there aren’t more women in math and science fields.

Now, this is not saying that girls who genuinely enjoy playing with dolls should be told that they are simply validating the stereotype and should do otherwise.

The point of refraining from stereotyping is to allow people to both fit the mold and break it. In short, it allows for individuals to be full of complexity and contradiction.

Girls can be both interested in fashion and football. Boys can love monster trucks and romance novels. Stereotypes do not allow for this type of variation, and would argue that people who have these seemingly “opposing” traits are inher-

ently wrong in some way.

Although it is cliche, we can never truly “walk a mile in someone else’s shoes.” When we stereotype, we assume that we can not only understand others, but that we have the authority to assume things about others. This is not only dangerous, but downright offensive.

The offensive nature of stereotypes is truly the heart of the issue. How many times have you heard “that was good for a girl” or “shouldn’t you be smart if you’re Asian?” or thousands of other harmful stereotypes that seem to permeate our culture.

The general rule of thumb for stereotypes is as follows: if it could offend someone, it is better left unsaid. While you might think whatever ignorant, sweeping generalization you are about to proclaim is relevant, I can assure nine times out of ten it is better left unsaid.

When we stereotype, we make it almost impossible for someone to embody aspects of that stereotype without fear of judgement. I actually used to enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte from time to time, yet I haven’t had one in years for fear of being labeled as a “typical white girl.”

Although some aspects of someone’s personality might fit the ste-

reotype, they are more than just a label.

While it would be nice if these stereotypes could vanish from out culture altogether, it is almost too much to wish for.

A combination of ignorance and a stupid desire for simplicity means that as long as different groups exist, there will always be stereotypes that plague humanity.

What, then, can be done to combat this terrible habit to which our society has fallen? The response to stereotypes needs to function like a double-edged sword.

While learning about why we should not vocalize stereotypes, we should also learn why these stereotypes are obsolete.

The best way to break stereotypes is to get to know a wide range of people, from every corner of humanity you possibly can. Meet girls who want to be engineers. Find a guy who is interested in fashion.

Try to imagine other human beings as complex people, rather than as iterations of a certain stereotype.

And be conscientious of the harmful preconceived notions that you may bring to any situation.

Yes, I may like Pumpkin Spice Lattes, but that fact alone does not make me a “typical white girl.”

matically in the middle of STAAR testing. Just stand up, look the proctor dead in the eyes, and walk out without saying a word.

5. Write my name over every all-time record in the weight room.

6. Wear the Spartacus mas-

cot costume to class. Refuse to speak, explain myself, or reveal my identity.

7. Attend a random class and

try to convince the teacher I’ve been there all year and they’ve just never noticed me.

8. In a class where the teacher

says it’s okay to eat, bring a 20 oz. ribeye, a loaded baked potato, a plate, and silverware, and start eating in the middle of the lesson. Preface it with a salad, tossed in class.

9. Fill in a Scantron complete-

ly. Or bubble in a smiley face.

Or try writing a sentence using only the first five letters of the alphabet. Anything but actually bubbling in the answers.

10. Blame everything on a lost game of One Roll or What Are the Odds. Then I’d be legally untouchable. I think...

Disclaimer: DO NOT do any of these things, they are stupid ideas that will result in punishment. You aren’t untouchable.

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Feminism: not what the name implies

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The definition of the movement has been warped over time OPINION OF MAXINE TRAN

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GRAPHIC BY CLAIRE PENA

With the growing interest in feminist activism, the feminism movement is now at its record height, unmatched since women fought to gain the right to vote. However, despite the popularity, it is startling how little people, even members of the movement, understand about the movement itself.

Being a feminist has gained a sort of stigma, and more often than not if you were to stop someone and ask them to describe what a feminist is they would depict some sort of angry woman who hates homemakers and men for holding the doors for them.

However, it is not only the public who has a distorted view on the feminism movement but somehow along the way feminist themselves have perverted the true meaning.

Feminism as a movement is not preaching a message of female dominance or supremacy but on that is rooted in the desire for equality for both genders.

At the heart of the feminist movement it is common knowledge that society as a public does not recognize nor entirely comprehend the true issue of sexism. A majority of people believe that the central goal for feminism is to become equal to men.

An even larger majority picture feminists as anti-male, this misconception of feminism is an indicator that all most people know of feminism is from the view of the dated patriarchal age.

The most publicized feminist movements have for years, been represented by women whose goals are angled centrally for gender equality in equal wages for equal work, or the role reversal of men being stay-at-home dads and women being the primary source of income.

To the public, feminism has gained a reputation for being a movement that has a severe matriarch complex, stereotyped as man haters and radicals.

To play devil’s advocate, it is true that in the early days feminism was not entirely unassociated with an anti-male sentiment. However in recent years the movement has informed itself and expanded beyond that from a message of male blame to one of equality.

Simply put, the problem is not men but sexism as a principle.

By mistargeting the goal of the movement these feminists have contorted what is truly a cause for everyone into a cause that only concerns woman. Many feminists still fail to understand this crucial principle and retain

antiquated male-hatred. What these activist fail to understand is that it is the fault of society as a whole to fail to recognize this gap in gender equality.

In order to be successful, activists must understand that societal imbalance isn’t the result of one singular gender but society as a whole.

It is the fault of everyone who perpetuates this gender gap. It is not just men who oppress women, oppression and hatred exists between both genders and affects everyone, even if they are not aware of it.

A wide-spread cause lead by feminist that perhaps perfectly encompasses the contemporary movement of feminism as a whole is the issue of cultural awareness in domestic violence as well as changes that society must make in their way of thinking on it in an effort to end finally end it.

Modern culture however progressive it may has only just began to stop shying away from the issue of domestic violence, and many forget that the contemporary feminist movement was the driving force to exposing the hidden reality of this issue.

At first it was centered solely around male violence towards women but as more was

uncovered it has become clear that domestic violence isn’t isolated to male behavior but also female and can even be found in same sex relationships, that children were equally victims of violence at the hands of men and women.

A central idea in this movement is to rid women of the stigma of being the weaker of the two genders. Not only does this mean advocating for issues such as women receiving less pay than men but it also means eliminating the idea that domestic violence conducted by a woman to a man is any more acceptable in the eyes of the society.

Feminism is a movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression. It is an idea that the sexes should have political, social, and economic equality. While this goal has been distorted all around, it is important for this goal to become common knowledge and understood. Both genders must make movements towards improving gender equality. While the name may be initially misleading it is important to understand that feminism is a movement for everyone.

When collaboration kills creativity

Access Denied: How ‘live’ is Skyward database?

OPINION OF TINA KANG

OPINION OF JUSTIN TODES

Group projects to not allow for individualized ideas The project rubric with the phrase, “creativity counts!” sits on a student’s desk.

Members of a small group, including the student who has become the de facto leader, gather in a circle. When it’s time for the leader to jot down a design, there is a dead, awkward silence. Does this silence indicate an effective brainstorming process?

Group work is an important academic tool in many high schools, middle schools, and even in some colleges. It is also an unavoidable concept for many organizations and members of a company who need to collaborate on the project to create the best solution or the most innovative idea. Students have done and still do a lot of group work during and after class. But is it really that beneficial?

Unfortunately, group work does not work well with creativity. Brainstorming is the key to creativity, and it can not take place within a group of people who have vastly different ideas, skill sets, and work habits. It is bothersome for everyone to share their ideas, compare the different ideas and combine them into one or choose the best one.

Often, the final product depends on who shares their ideas first, rather than what works or looks best. The introverts who usually have plenty of ideas do not have the courage to speak up, but extroverts do. It is most likely that extroverts will blurt out their

ideas first, taking immediate control and other members will agree with an apathetic, “Cool. Let’s go with that.”

Another problem is the laziness that comes with going along with the first idea.

Most people stop brainstorming after they come up with one idea. Other members who have better ideas simply go with what they already have because they feel uncomfortable trying to replace another person’s idea.

Of course, time is short, driving everyone to spend less time brainstorming and begin working, a challenge for a large group. They can not stand the silence. They eliminate any ideas that might be “too difficult” or “too weird” and simply go with what will take the least effort.

Ideas arise from random, unexpected things, and this cannot happen in a group setting. With so much pressure to appease different personalities in a large group, it is hard to allow for unconventional ideas that could be amazing. There simply isn’t enough time or energy to be creative in group projects.

Creative people feel more comfortable working alone rather suffering with group work. Alone they can have peace and quiet to think and create the best project in their own way. This is why most writers and artists isolate themselves to brainstorm, imagine, and dream ideas for their work.

Loopholes in grading guidelines create stress for students What is the point in having an online gradebook when so many teachers don’t enter their grades until the end of each grading period?

When the Skyward online database was implemented in 2010, a major goal was to provide students with immediate access to their grades. Unfortunately, when teachers procrastinate on entering grades, students are unable to check on their progress in their classes, which ultimately defeats the purpose of a live online grading database.

At the beginning of each school year, every teacher is required to acknowledge that they have read the SBISD Secondary Grading Expectations. These expectations state that all assignments, except projects, must be entered into Skyward within five school days after the due date.

Many teachers are compliant with this policy, but others will take days, or even weeks, to enter grades that are as simple as Scantron tests.

On other occasions, teachers will simply modify due dates in Skyward, which therefore makes them “compliant” with the grading conditions.

Loopholes, such as changing due dates in Skyward or moving assignments to the next grading period, allow and encourage teachers to procrastinate on their grading while causing unnecessary stress to students.

These loopholes could be easily avoided with some amendments to the grading requirements. Students who turn in assignments on time deserve to receive their grades on time. It is unfair to students when teachers change Skyward due dates to “comply” with policy.

Some may argue that it is unreasonable to expect teachers to grade every assignment within five days, when tests and papers are vastly time consuming to score.

However, while teachers are busy people, the expectation that grades be entered within five school days after the due date excludes weekends and gives teachers an entire week to complete their grading.

If a teacher is taking longer than a week to grade an assignment, they are either procrastinating on their grading, or they are overwhelmed with too much to grade.

Whatever the case, if it takes a teacher over a week to complete their grading, maybe they should consider lessening the amount of work they assign. If a teacher can’t grade assignments in a timely manner, then they ultimately shouldn’t assign as much work.

It is stressful for students to be in a class and not know where they truly stand as a result of unentered grades. Something must be done to remove the loopholes from the district Grading Expectations and restore the “live” aspect of the Skyward database.

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Celebrating our Veterans The Story Behind the Face

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news in brief

WRITTEN BY NAZLEE KHADJEHEIAN

You wouldn’t guess that Spanish teacher, Mary Moreno spent 24 years serving our country and has 12 medals to her name and many other accomplishments.

In 1981, Moreno was working in the Veteran’s Administration, foreclosing houses and working on court cases when she realized she wanted to do something greater with her life.

“I was aspiring for more,” Moreno said.

“I thought it would be such an experience.”

Moreno then enrolled in basic training at the Randolph Air Force Training Base in San Antonio, Texas. Moreno was the only woman in her squadron, but didn’t let the difference define her or her work.

“I had to prove myself,” Moreno said. “I didn’t feel intimidated. I just knew I had to work harder.”

After finishing basic training, Moreno went to Firefighter School at Chanute Air

Force Base in Illinois.

Throughout her service period, Moreno earned more than 12 commendation awards, including the longevity ribbon for a length of service, and her favorite award, expert marksmen, for excellent shooting skill, At the same time, Moreno also raised her daughter and earned a degree in Business Management. From there she earned her teaching certificate, and began teaching.

“When I was a young girl, I used to play school with my brothers and sisters,” Moreno said. “I love [my job]. I love teaching.”

After serving a few years as a firefighter, Moreno was nominated for first sergeant.

Moreno said it was an amazing honor because of all of the responsibility the position requires. Moreno soon took over as first sergeant for a civil engineer squadron, in charge of everyone.

“As first sergeant, you’re in control of a lot of things. It taught me self discipline,” Moreno said. “Learning to be in charge of all of those people, and learning to be a team for a civil purpose, whatever it was.”

Through serving in the Air Force, Moreno had some of the best experiences of her life.

She was able to travel to places all over the United States, and to countries like Spain and Guatemala.

“I dreamed about going back to Spain one day,” Moreno said.

Through Funds for Teachers, she was able to fulfill her dream.

“It was the best time of my life,” Moreno said. “However, teaching students is a lot less challenging than training men.”

Even though she made great memories, there were times when Moreno’s bravery was put to the test. Moreno can recall teaching in class one day, administering a test. The radio was playing in the back of the room, and the music was interrupted to give the news that a plane had hit the Twin Towers.

“For a week it was like you couldn’t get away from the TV, seeing all of the destruction and despair that was happening,” Moreno said.

That was in September.

By December, Moreno received a letter calling her back to serve.

“When Uncle Sam says you have been activated, you have been activated,” Moreno said. “It’s scary because you don’t know where they’re going to send you. I had colleagues who had been sent to some tiny foreign island, and I was scared they were going to send me there.”

Luckily, Moreno was told to report to Lime, Conn., taking part in task forces like Desert Storm, Desert Eagle, and Noble Eagle, and visited the site of the fallen towers which gave off “an eerie feeling.”

Moreno received an honorable discharge after 24 years of service. She is proud of the time she served, and proud of all of her accomplishments.

“Anytime I wear my uniform and ribbons, I wear them with pride,” Moreno said.

PHOTO BY NICK LATIOLAIS

All State Orchestra

Wilson Hui and Kevin Han have been selected as members of the 2014-2015 Texas All State Orchestra. Becoming a member is the highest honor an orchestra student can receive in Texas. Hui, a violinist, and Han, a cellist, will perform with the orchestra at the Texas Music Educator’s Clinic and Convention in San Antonio next April. This is Han’s second year to be selected.

Last Chance for Tamales

November 25 is the last day of the band and color guard’s tamale sale. Order online using PayPal at stratfordband.com

Power Reviews

Sign up for power reviews by Counselor’s Corner.

Final Exam Week is Dec. 15-19 12/15- A/B Review Day 12/16- 1st and 7th exams 12/17- 6th and 8th exams 12/18- 3rd and 5th exams 12/19- 2nd and 4th exam

SpartansWhoServedandWhatTheyLearnedAlongtheWay WRITTEN BY JOURNALISM I STUDENTS GRAPHICS BY VICTORIA SHIN

Warren Murphy In the beginning Murphy was not as enthusiastic about his deployment as his peers, but over time it grew on him.

“I was assigned to Naval Intelligence and so my job was to monitor Soviet naval communications.”

“I served for 4 years and got an honorable discharge.”

Gerald Thomas The chance to be independent and serve the country initially attracted Thomas to the military.

“My experience with the Army has been a very good one, I learned a lot. I joined to become more disciplined, I learned how to shoot, I was exposed to different cultures, and I was very integrated.”

Richard Graham “I learned to fulfill commitments I made. I became more trustworthy of others.”

Performing in the Army band gave Graham time to think about what he would do with the rest of his life.

“I think we should celebrate Veterans Day to honor the people who died for our rights and freedom. “

Matt Boane “I had a great experience. I got to fly around in helicopters, drive tanks, throw hand grenades, and blow stuff up.”

Boane believes that Veterans day is a important holiday, “because these are the people who guarantee our freedom. These are the people who put their lives on the line to make sure we have what we have.”

William Hall “I learned a lot about managing people, professionalism, and organizing my time.”

Hall joined the army at a young age and matured a lot through service.

“I am used to being in charge. I was put in charge of soldiers, and now I am in charge of students. It was sort of training for being a teacher later on.”

Darrell Pickard In the Air Force, Pickard learned many things but the one that stood out was selflessness. He always knew that what he was doing was for the betterment of the country and the safety of its inhabitants.

“You learn to never do things for yourself, it’s always about other people. It wasn’t about me and that attitude has helped me all my life.”

Visit shsoracle.com for a full rundown of all of the faculty who served, including stories and pictures of each. SHTV included a piece about some of the staff in their November 13 show.

Joseph Brillon In the army Brillon was taught how to get a job done and to depend on others in tough situations.

“I was able to travel all over the world, I was tested a lot in all sorts of situations, and I learned a lot about team work.”

“We need to remember why we have the liberties we do in the US.”

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Spartans Give Back Project Nice volunteers this holiday season

WRITTEN BY DEVIN MITCHELL AND TAYLOR MORRIS “Usually our projects are in-school projects, but this year for Thanksgiving we are actually going to go during Thanksgiving to help people in need.”

Project Nice Vice President Katy Yu, explained how the club is giving back to the community this holiday season, “We decided that some of us would go down to the homeless shelter or food bank and You’ve seen their story, notes stuck in help out with the Thanksgiving dinner for odd places around school, and now Project people in need.”

Nice is lending a helping hand during the The students in Project Nice feel like that Holidays. they have done their part for the commuProject Nice has always volunteered nity and Secretary Julia Matteucci said she around the holiday season, and they have feels when she does something that makes been known for leaving nice notes around someone else’s day that much better, “It is the school to students. However, this year a very rewarding experience, it’s not somethe club has a new vision for the holiday thing that can be replicated in any other season. way.,” Matteucci said.

During this time of the year the organiza“You just feel good that you are doing tion has always given back. Just recently, your part for the community and it just during Halloween, the students put tomakes you feel like a better person,” she gether Halloween candy bags and passed added. them out to random people so they could Project Nice is a great example of what enjoy their Halloween. the Holidays are really about. Giving back Project Nice has remained focused strictly and showing appreciation for the commuon improving the school community but nity is one great gesture that not many kids this year they hope to expand beyond that. our age would do.

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ECHO Makes Home In the Black Box Musicians return to make beautiful music in the community WRITTEN BY MAXINE TRAN

For many high school musicians, their career ends on graduation day. However this was not the case for the newly inaugurated members of The Energy Corridor of Houston Orchestra(ECHO).

Although founder and President Sarah Plunkett doesn’t live in the area she grew up in the Energy Corridor and frequents the area often giving flute lessons.

Plunkett knew of a number of local adult musicians who had nowhere to play and noticed the lack of a community orchestra. This inspired her to begin her own community orchestra.

A community orchestra would provide an opportunity for classical musicians to practice and attend rehearsals after work.

After receiving encouragement from the Energy Corridor District, Plunkett began to advertise to the community, quickly gaining new members she was faced with a new dilemma, who

would conduct them and where would they practice?

She began to ask around and soon came in contact with school orchestra director Michael Fahey who had been an active member of the music community in the area for 20 years.

Fahey was extremely open to the idea and the two began to plan. After volunteering the black box as the rehearsal venue, he quickly reached out to all of the local musicians he knew, advertising the new orchestra.

Laura Williamson, mother of three students and VicePresident of the energy corridor orchestra, reached out to the two when she heard of their ambitious plans.

The trio were soon established as the founding members and applied for a nonprofit status.

Practicing every Thursday evening in the black box, the group has plans to perform several times in the coming year.

(above) A former student of Michael Fahey, Steven Booker plays under the direction of Fahey at the first concert. Booker graduated from Lamer High School in 2006 and now works as a CPA. There are multiple members of the prestigious orchestra who are former Stratford students. (below) Concertmaster Pablo Donatti plays violin with another member of the orchestra, Maryland Liff, at their fall concert, “Minor Madness.” The orchestra will have their next concert on Thursday, Dec. 4 at KCPC Church. located at 14311 Park Row Dr. Houston,TX.

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Finals Survival Guide How to handle this semester’s exams WRITTEN BY CAMERON HENKEL

Finals.

It’s the scariest word a student can hear. How is anyone supposed to remember everything from the entire semester?

A big part of Kristel Green’s job as Senior Counselor is to prepare students for final exams. Here are her top five tricks for studying for a tough exam: 1. Don’t wait Studying for finals began on the first day of school. You will never have to stay up until four a.m. again if you prepare throughout the year.

2. Ask your teacher and go to tutorials It may seem hard to go ask a teacher after school for additional help, but no teacher will ignore you. If you need help they will find a way to assist you.

3. Feel prepared Go to sleep early the night before and eat a good breakfast. You’ll miss out on half an hour of studying, but you’ll feel like a superhero sitting next to the half-asleep kid who went to bed at 3 a.m. and skipped a meal.

4. Be consistent Studying for an hour a night every night will prepare you for a test better than studying for six hours the night before.

5. Practice and review The only way to be truly prepared for a final is to simply sit down and practice. Go over past tests and figure out where you struggled and focus on that, but don’t forget to go over the basics as well.

Below are some digital tools that can also help with studying.

There’s an app for that

1

2

3

4

Of course for some students, the traditional way of studying just doesn’t work. Luckily, in the age of smartphones and tablets, there are plenty of apps to modernize the studying process. Here are the top four apps for reviewing.

1. Evernote The basic premise of this app is that throughout the year, notes and lectures get added to it and neatly sorted into groups. When finals approach, all of your notes are just one click away.

2. Wolfram Alpha One of the lesser known apps around, but certainly one of the most powerful, Wolfram Alpha

connects your phone to one of the world’s most powerful supercomputers and artificial intelligence systems to help you check answers. Calculus and Physics may seem hard to you, but to Wolfram Alpha it’s like riding a bike.

3. Khan Academy Famous for its informative videos, Khan Academy covers practically every subject under the sun. Plus most of its courses are interactive and engaging.

4. StudyBlue Similar to StudyStack, this app works like a virtual stack of flashcards. It’s perfect for memorizing tough vocabulary.

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Redrawing the Map to College

Should you be considering taking a Gap Year?

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY KAROLYS AND DAVID HUMPHREY As applications are being filled out and acceptance letters for college are pouring in, some students don’t have to deal with the stress of applying to college. Why? Because they won’t be going to college next year.

They’ll be taking a gap year. A gap year is a student’s way of taking a momentary break between high school and college for various reasons.

The action of taking a gap year is supported and even encouraged by administrators in SBISD, including Superintendent Duncan Klussmann. “I think it’s a very good concept. I don’t think it’s a bad idea,� Klussmann said. “The research around it says students who do a gap year before they start at a university, tend to do better at the university setting.� “The gap year is one of those opportunities, where for some students not heading straight into high education is probably a good decision,� he said.

Over the past few years, taking a gap year has become more popular to graduating seniors. Studies have shown that taking a gap year is actually very beneficial to the student and the student is likely to be more successful in college than your average college student.

Gap years can also give students time to explore the career world and get another chance at applying to a college they may not have gotten into initially. “Last year we had a student from Spring Woods who got a full ride to Yale and it hit me that that’s like winning the lottery, but there are a lot of different ways to Yale than right out of high school.�

Klussmann said.

Although some students or parents seem to think a gap year is a way of saying, “I’m never going to college�, this is not the case. “A student who takes a gap year just because they want to take a break between high school and college is not always in the best situation,� sophomore counselor Greg Fore said. “Once they end up working, they start earning a pay check and having a little money and freedom, it’s harder to get back into school mode and go back into the college scene.�

Gap years are often misinterpreted.

Many think that people who take gap years are simply being lazy or not doing work. This opinion is created by the notion that is held that all students must go to college after high school. “I think we have this mind set particularly around T-2-4 and it’s like, okay, you graduate from high school and you have Story continues on page 9

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to head off to college or particularly a four year institution,” Klussmann said.

Because our culture is so devoted to the concept that college is the only choice for students after graduating from high school, students who are taking gap years are discouraged, even though that may be the better decision for them.

This being said, gap years are not necessarily for everyone For some people, it is the perfect path to finding out what it is like to be in the real world and having “I ha r fresh dly eve to be on your own, and that’s perfectly n wou man in look lik fine, but this is not always the case. h e l I we d look li igh scho a ve While there are people who will bei I g . t n k o i o e an t to l; I dt ab e w e c p i come successful due to taking a gap year, o o n n u lle ul fa eI few ow high d like to ge next nt if el lik e to gr have a there are those who are not going to be as e f I y l “ o m go to school s ook mo ear. I a few elf ti me t successful or will not benefit from taking r e mys some ti d go to e s n choo lik ior w n t this time off from school. l.” hen e a wan iences a I do r e Many underclassmen with senior exp s.” arting e er, I plan on st m friends who are taking a gap year may be m su plac e th r g “Ove lvin ss, mainly invo influenced to follow their example and a t-shirt busine of classic cars. And sup gns take a gap year as well. But just because graphical desi very l as get a job at to e pe r ho I r, a e te someone else is taking a gap year doesn’t in e w s e f te th t ea ng duri time cr ey en par f it. Th uld’ve d in my spare mean that everyone should. an , rt y se so re ba i e sk th a “M ive o ho ll down at m se s to k e Everyone is different. Taking a gap year or y t k tw h r or ill w scenery ar po gh the year t not sure if I w I’m n. u ai is a decision that must be thought out nt p b ou o jo a m a of the th n a g , maybe , but I hope to e carefully and comes from self-reflection se el k re he a yw t an s.” store.” ke e bi or v ip on what is best for each individual. It is l sh se at a dealer not a path to copy someone else just because you wish to find success like them.

Some students may think they will be “My ready, but when all of their friends start rela main f talking about going to college, they may “I’m thinking of t o going to A&M or of a ed thin cus w change their mind and regret not applyUT fo i r rtw 2 l ye g ar l s.

Then, I want to ork s. Try be w few ing simply because they were following go o i to t the art school of n buc o r Pasadena, ks w gether g to ge king o the example of their older friends.

CA to n m t , aj hile or in industrial or a a I’m nd ma good my art Likewise, those who think that taking a automotive desig at it por ybe n.” .” mak tfolio gap year is essentially doing nothing all ing a day for a year are also mistaken. There is a huge difference between exploring career paths for a year before college and sitting on a couch for a year.

The most important part of taking a gap year is to have a plan.

“The students I have seen be successful , p year with gap years are ones who had a defia g a ke t t to ta for the righ nite plan,” Fore said. n a w “If you it has to be als. Don’t Without a plan, gap years will become “I am ut go m g out inefficient, and time will be wasted. At do it! B Set some n a h I wan ost looking s. nd te f have elax a reason just co d to take a orward to t n to r You have to no this point in a young person’s life, time is la p t r s . uldn’t a r ju ly ea not something that can be wasted. see m gap year b veling. colleg d app hole y ys e ec for a w reason. An The four students who are highlightneed after high s elf going st ause I d tim ch ra a goo hat!” ed in this issue are all going in different and m e to trave ool. I knew ight to w r l and y care I wou matte focus directions after they graduate this year. l er for into c d on my ollege a whi s le bef life.”

Some will venture off into other states or ore di elf ving even other countries, while others will stay in Houston to work and see what it’s like to run their own business. ng i l The key thing that connects all of them, e v a tr family me, but however, is not just that they are taking e v a h “I ith l gap years, but that they have specific ris w it wil to Pa han that .” t e plans for their gap year. All of their plans r m othe ly just be b are different, fit to their own interests, a b o pr talents, and skills, but the fact that they have a distinct plan is what sets them apart as high school graduates bound for ra g to P “I dec am goin success as they start exploring potential I r i e d p m o e h m d I want “Colle a gap del. I’m “This su o m e g careers. to d e y e t is very and onth I am of this ar at the be o take impor is for a m l take me further, ut With their plans, Douglas Baker, Caitlin s g t y t i i n ear.” a ll app ning wil ugho would lying nt. ing that avel thro work Ehlinger, Andrew Ford and Katie Moore tr l i to k a e n e d schoo t will allow m l in N o attend are ready to face the real world with their If not, I r. a e y ” e a p le the ye w Yor my ga s possib k whe ar is u high school diplomas and find out what s much a n p.” locally a is in store for them both before and after college.

ANDREW FORD

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KATIE MOORE

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Thanksgiving Mythbusters

Separating the Holiday’s History from Fact or Fiction WRITTEN BY NOELLE FLORES

ĕ GRAPHIC BY VICTORIA SHIN

Did you know that Thanksgiving is a myth?

Well, at least some of it is.

Most of us were told the story of the first Thanksgiving in elementary school. We painted hand turkeys, drew the Pilgrims in black and white clothes with buckled shoes, and made our own Indian feathered headbands.

On the holiday itself, we gather around the dinner table with the family and eat turkey, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Sound familiar?

Every year, on the fourth Thursday of November, family and friends come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, the national holiday that commemorates the Pilgrims’ arrival to the New World in 1620 and their festival of the harvest that they shared with the Native Americans the following year.

Theirs was the first Thanksgiving, which became an annual tradition for the Puritan Pilgrims who arrived in Plymouth Plantation on the Mayflower.

Or was it?

How much of all this “history” is factual? How much do we know about what really happened when the Pilgrims first came to America?

According to AP U.S. History teacher Jane Duke, much of what we have been told since early childhood is a myth.

“The real first Thanksgiving was actually held in Jamestown in 1608, but since that celebration was not a part of our American heritage, historians picked the Pilgrims that did it in September, 1621,” Duke said. “They didn’t have the first Thanksgiving, they didn’t really invite the Indians

and they didn’t serve turkey or mashed potatoes or any of the foods that we serve today because those weren’t all invented at the time period. Turkeys weren’t common in the North.” America isn’t the only country that celebrates Thanksgiving; Canada celebrates the holiday as well in October.

Similar to America’s Thanksgiving, Canada’s Thanksgiving observes the harvest and the blessings of the past year, and their traditional meal also includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, fall vegetables, sweet corn, and pumpkin pie.

Thanksgiving also wasn’t made a national holiday in the United States until the 1860’s under the administration of President Abraham Lincoln, and in the 1940’s, President

Franklin Delano Roosevelt set the precedent for what the typical American Thanksgiving dinner should consist of: turkey, dressing, corn on the cob, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, etc. As Duke says, the holiday as we know it today is “more of a modern than an ancient tradition.”

But the Thanksgiving story about the Pilgrims isn’t entirely incorrect. The Pilgrims did celebrate with a festival each year, and that festival has become what we know as “Thanksgiving”.

“It was called a Harvest Home Celebration,” Duke said, “the Pilgrims just celebrated that they had a good harvest, and everyone would come together and celebrate with a feast. It was a really different time period in history.”

Duke also discussed some common misconceptions about the Pilgrims and their arrival to the New World.

“The Pilgrims only wore black and white, all they did was pray, and they were just typical Englishmen with a very religious life - these ideas are all false.”

So if the tale of the first Thanksgiving that many children are taught in school today is mostly made-up, why is it still circulated throughout the United States?

“It’s all part of what we call our American heritage,” Duke said. “We need to know where we descended from, and so because of their Puritan way of life, we picked the Pilgrims’ story.”

The Funniest of Netflix Oldies

Ranking the Best Old Comedy Shows on Netflix According to You WRITTEN BY ARTURO BENITEZ AND MATTHEW HOPPER

Most of us have heard of the great entertainment corporation known as Netflix. It has one of the most extensive collections of television shows and movies in the world, many of which you can constantly stream. For just $8.99 a month one has access to over 2,000 different titles.

Fortunately, many of us here at Stratford are able to purchase Netflix, and experience the joys of it.

Netflix can be a blessing and a curse, it sucks you in with the hundreds of episodes of your favorite shows, and thousands of your favorite movies. From “Doctor Who” to “Orange is the New Black” we can both cry our eyes out, and laugh until we can’t breathe.

After surveying students on five of the more popular television shows on Netflix, we were able to rank Arrested Development, How I Met Your Mother, The Office, It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, and Frasier in their respective levels of popularity.

Arrested Development is an American television sitcom created be Mitchell Hurwitz. It originally aired on Fox for three seasons form November 2003 to February 2006 and is about a fictional dysfunctional family that loses its wealth.

“It’s funny and told differently than most shows. There’s narration, and then a scene, then repeats with lots going on,” freshman Bethany Sturgis said.

How I Met Your Mother is about a group of friends, especially about the main character’s endeavor to find the woman of his dreams. This show originally aired on CBS from Sept. 2005 to March 2014.

The Office is a mockumentary/cringe comedy sitcom that has been translated and reimagined for 6 different countries and cultures. It follows the story of multiple office workers in their daily lives.

The U.S. version originally aired on NBC from March 2005 to May 2013, while the U.K. version originally aired on BBC two in July 2001, and ran for only 14 episodes, with two series of six episodes and a twopart Christmas special. The U.S. version is the longest running with 9 seasons to its name.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a show based in Philadelphia following four best friends running “Paddy’s Pub” and getting into all sorts of antics around the city. The sitcom first premiered on FX in August 2005. New episodes continue to air on FX and reruns play on Comedy Central.

Frasier is an American sitcom that was first broadcast on NBC. It aired from Sept.

1993 to May 2004, racking up an impressive eleven seasons on air. It is about newly divorced psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane, who must take care of his retired father and Frasier’s two sons.

Just the Facts

We asked 100 students to submit their opinion, and recieved some very interesting data. The Office comes first at number 1 with 46% of the vote, and was followed by How I Met Your Mother, which took 31% of the vote. All results shown in the pie chart below.

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Spartans Take the Stage Playhouse Alumni Representing on Broadway

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY KAROLYS PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERICA MANSFIELD, EMILY MECHLER, STEPHANIE GIBSON While Andrew Luck is repMansfield was in) and “Happy house, these ladies have been resenting Stratford in football, Days”. able to have some of the best three talented ladies are repreEach of the women have Broadway experiences to date. senting the school all the way up shared how the work ethic and Getting to perform with people in New York on Broadway. Erica discipline of the Stratford Playsuch as Ricky Martin, Daniel Mansfield, Emily Mechler, and house has helped them to be bet- Radcliffe, and many Broadway Stephanie Gibson each continue ter performers in their careers. stars is just a small fraction of to have moments on the bewhat their lives consist of. loved Broadway stage.

“Doing scenes and dancing After being a part of with Dan Radcliffe- totally surthe Stratford Playhouse all real,” Mansfield said. throughout their high school When asked if they had any days, they were all three able to advice for other Spartans who continue careers into musical want to pursue a career in musitheatre. cal theatre, this was some of The youngest of the three, their responses.

Emily Mechler, is currently the “I would encourage fellow stand-by for the role of Glinda Spartans to keep working in the hit musical “Wicked”. everyday,” Mechler said. “You Mechler had been apart of can never be too prepared. Also, “Wicked” before, but as the always make time for people or understudy. a hobby outside of theatre that “[Now] I will be the first in line makes you happy. It will make to go on when the main Glinda you a well-rounded person that is out of the show. It keeps me on is fulfilled and will positively my toes for sure,” Mechler said. enhance your craft.”

Before her “Wicked” adventure “There is always room for began, she was in the musical improvement,” Mansfield said.

“Evita” as the Mistress.

“This business is very difficult. It Also in “Evita” with Mechler takes tough skin and it takes a lot was Mansfield, who was a part “I think your development as a of work. I have constantly worked of the ensemble. Mansfield’s performer is greatly influenced on myself and the hard work other Broadway credits include by the opportunities given at pays off. You have to have it in all “Mamma Mia!”, “How to Succeed a young age,” Mansfield said. departments now. So you need in Business without Really Try“Stratford had such a strong theto keep up with your voice, your ing”, “Pippin”, and she is soon to atre department that I was able dancing, and be able to act. The be seen in “On the 20th Century”. to develop a deep love for theatre other really good word of adviceShe was also on the 1st Broadway there. We did interesting shows, Be a good person. At a certain national tour for “A Chorus Line” we had New York talent coming point, reputation plays a big part and “Mamma Mia!”. to work with us; we had legends in a long standing career.”

As of right now, Mansfield like Marvin Hamlish working “Always trust yourself,” Gibson is working on a show at City with us. Our productions were said. “I think we all get caught up Center Encores called “The Band top notch so I learned profesin trying to be what we think the Wagon” that is set to run 12 persionalism early. Although I wasn’t casting directors, directors, etc., formances. playing leads in high school, I want us to be. What they want Afterwards, she will be returnwas groomed for the next step to see is you. There is no one out ing as a vacation swing in “Pipafter high school where I did.” there like you and that is your pin” until rehearsals for “On the “Working on shows at Stratsecret weapon. Trust that you are 20th Century” begin in Decemford gave me the discipline and enough and bring your whole ber. drive to pursue acting as a full heart to everything you do. Stay While Mechler is in “Wicked” time career,” Gibson said. “Stratfocused, don’t ever give up, and and Mansfield is in “The Band ford’s production of Hello Dolly always find something to laugh Wagon,” Stephanie Gibson has was still one of the hardest roles about every day.” been playing the character of I’ve rehearsed and performed to If it wasn’t for their determiGabrielle, Cinderella’s stepsister date. It was amazing preparation nation, incredible talent, and of in the musical “Cinderella”. Her for the Conservatory program course the Stratford Playhouse, other Broadway credits include that I attended after high school, Broadway would be missing “Spamalot” and “The Addams and for working in this business three wonderful stars. To see the Family” and National Tours of post college.” full interviews of the three ladies, “A Chorus Line” (The same one Thanks to the Stratford Playvisit shsoracle.com.

Emily Mechler

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Erica Mansfield

Stephanie Gibson

Top Tweets of November Brittany Fitzgerald @brittnicole70

Stop its not even Thanksgiving why does this much Christmas stuff happen so early 9:18 PM - 2 Nov 2014

1HJRPL >OP[L @jackieswhite

Trying to write an English essay while the bubble guppies theme song is blaring 8:02 PM - Nov 2014

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Justin Timberlake is the male white version of Beyoncé 5:21 PM - 4 Nov 2014

Dreams Come True (Far Left)

Emily Mechler takes her bow after her perfomance as the Mistress in “Evita” on Broadway.

Dancing with Harry Potter (Middle) Erica Mansfield grinning with Daniel Radcliffe at a performance of “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying” on Broadway.

Playing Dress-up (Far Right) Stephanie Gibson in her costumes for her role of Gabrielle in “Cinderella” on Broadway.

Kylen Chen-Troester @nihaokylen When your friend tries to take a screenshot to show you that their screen is cracked.

10:35 PM - 16 Nov 2014

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Cover Graphic: “The Principals Go Trick-or-Treating” by Paul Brastrom and Rebecca Williamson

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

The Stratford Oracle

Great Study Spot )UHH:LÀ Coffee, Espresso, Smoothies, Sandwiches, Snacks, Craft Beers,Wine Show your student ID for 10% off

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ONE ON ONE with...

Coach Hos

PHOTO AND STORY BY ELLIE HERRMANN Q. What inspired you to become a high school swim coach? How long have you been one, and what keeps you coming back?

A. I’ll be honest, it was pure coincidence. I was coaching a girl on a club team, and she brought up that Stratford needed a coach. I tried it out, and here I am.

It’s been twelve years. I’d say I come back because I enjoy seeing kids reach their goals at the end of the year.

Q. Training during the season is tough, especially with the early mornings.

Can you explain the idea behind progressive training?

A. There are a few parts. You want to build up both their aerobic and anaerobic base in a progression. Basically, you build up your base during the season, so that with rest your body can physically achieve it’s potential.

Q. The boys were State Champions during the 2012-2013 season. What do you think their chances are at regaining that title?

A. Wakeland High School is going to be our main competition. They just received a star transfer, so now they’re loaded. It’ll be tough, and a lot of things will have to go our way, but I think we can do it.

Q. What class do you teach during the day, and what’s your favorite part about it?

A. I teach Aquatic Science.

You’d be surprised how many people think that it’s just a made up thing so I can be a swim coach. But it’s not. We’re here, and we learn a lot. My favorite part is there’s always a kid who gets to go see the beach and Galveston for the first time. That’s always cool. You get a kid who’s lived in an apartment their whole life and they get to see it for the first time.

Road to State Heading to the Playoffs

WRITTEN BY JACQUI COMPARIN Football has been a tradition here at school since 1974, and its not one a secret we are very passionate about it. The past two years, the football team has exceeded past the district level and reached the semi-finals, where they have gotten the privilege to play at Reliant Stadium. This year is no different with the football team heading to playoffs again.

Despite losing all three of their pre-season games, the football team bounced back quickly, winning every district game. “Playing a lot of hard teams in the preseason gave us a run for our money and got us better,� varsity running back Rakeem Boyd said. The coaches and athletes have been working extremely hard and are continuing to push the limit on their abilities.

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Running for State

Athletic Director Elliot Allen has been the head football coach for 13 years and has lead the team to nine consecutive playoffs. Allen said, “We are planning on taking it one week at a time. It is very important that our players understand that there are a lot of teams in the playoffs and we are not going to get caught up in all that. We will finish our game and move on to the next week.�

Allen continued, “Every year the team is a little bit different and a little bit slower, but the end result has a lot of similarities to the previous years before,� Allen said.

The team had the first playoff game of the season on November 14 against Waltrip, and they reigned victorious. Come and support football as they continue on their road to state!

The girls cross country team runs at regionals to qualify for the State Championship. At the State Championship the team places ninth overall. Their season comes to a close after a great run.

Low Five

Freshmen Nina Elez and Porsche Robinson celebrate after winning a crucial point at the Tennis Regional tournament semifinal.

Sleep Well

PHOTOS BY MAGGIE VICKERS, NICOLAS TERRAZAS, AND ARTURO BENITEZ

The football team says good night to the bulldogs at their game on Nov. 7, winning the last regular season game against Waller High School 41 to 3. The team had their first playoff game on Nov. 14.

Focus on the BALL Junior William Hendrickson steps up to hit the ball while he is trying to keep the lead in a big game at the Regional tennis tournament.

THE

SCHEDULE Basketball:

Men’s Basketball 11/20-22 SBISD Tournament FA/S/JV/V 12/9 Marshall @Stratford FB 4:00/ FA 4:00/ S 5:30/ JV 5:30/ V 7:00

Basketball:

Ladies Basketball 11/20-22 Ft. Bend Varsity Tournament @ Ft. Bend ISD 11/20-22 Klein Forest JV Tournament @ Klein Forest 12/4-6 SBISD F/JV Tournament @SBISD

Swimming:

12/5-6 South Zone TISCA @ Josh Davis Natatorium, San Antonio 12/11 Food Bank Challenge @ SBISD Natatorium

Best Mile Time: 5:34 Pre-Run Rituals: Eating nothing, doing lunges, drills, and stretches

Favorite Place to Run: Bayou

Biggest Motivation:

Adrenaline during a race

Inspiration: Brother Favorite Athlete: Mary Cain

Favorite Season: Fall

Wade Touchstone Position: Left Tackle Career Goal: make

money and work with Erik Boas

Ideal College:

Baylor University

Advice to Younger Players:

No matter how slow you are, you’re still lapping the person on the couch.

Most Memorable Moment: Playing Georgetown In the playoffs.

Shelby Kallus

Favorite Game: Trivia Pursuit

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Spartan Cross Country Victorious Again Back to Back State Titles

WRITTEN BY ALEX PARIZOT AND SEBASTIAN DROZ PHOTOS BY NICK TERRAZAS Winning state once is hard enough, winning it consecutively is near impossible, but not for the Spartan Cross Country team.

Just after school ended, the cross country team got up for the first summer run, beginning the road to victory. With the previous state title, the team was confident in their abilities to continue the trend, receiving first in all regular season meets.

“Sometimes it sucks, like when you have to stay up late studying or doing homework, but it’s worth it,” senior varsity runner Austin Richard said.

The team had quite a shock when they received the results of the regional meet. College Station got first place, the Spartans got second place. “They ran well, but as individuals, not as a team,” Assistant Cross Country Coach Jennifer Clouse said.

The training intensified, since they only had a week until State. It all came down to who wanted it more.

They did have some ups and downs in the race. The course was filled with rolling hills and barely any shade, but they kept running. More importantly they ran as a team.

Devin Fahey fell down around the second mile, but he got back up and stayed in the group until the end.

“What I most love to see is a runner fall down and get back up, it shows you their persistence,” Head Cross Country Coach Joseph Brillon said. As the results show most if the team were less than a minute apart.

Next year, the team still thinks they can win State again.

“If JV wants it, and they step it up, I believe we can win State next year,” said Coach Clouse.

The Cross Country State Championship begins with a bang as runners begin the race.

Head Coach Tony Brillon talks to the varsity cross country team shortly before their race for a pre-game pep talk.

Football Playoffs: Round 1

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR BRITTAIN AND JORDYN RICHARDS

Kickoff

Seniors Will Lavercombe, Andrew Bourdon, Erik Boas, junior C.J. Fury, and sophomore Randall Royall prepare to take the field for kickoff during the game against Waltrip.

Spartan Touchdown

Junior Jared Willis runs down the field and scores another touchdown for the Spartans against the Waltrip Rams.

Green and White Defense Attack!

Sophomore Sam Miller holds back the Rams offense at the first playoff game at Tully Nov. 14.

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The Spartans celebrate their first win of the 2014 playoffs against the Waltrip Rams, winning the game 48-0.

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Varsity cross country proudly wears their second cross country state title medal at the Round Rock meet.

Junior Jake Roberts and seniors Paul Brastrom and Douglas Baker charge down a hill while racing at the meet in Round Rock.

Varsity cross country gets ready to fly going for the second consecutive state title.

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Stratford America’s First All-American Volleyball Player

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Senior Ashley Fritcher honored at the national level for her success on the court WRITTEN BY OlIVIA SICILIANO PHOTOS BY JACQUI COMPARIN

Ready to Compete

Senior Ashley Fritcher focuses on serving the ball at the Magnolia West game on Oct. 7., winning 3 out of 4 games.

Focused and Determined

Ashley Fritcher (center) stands with her teammates, prepared to spike the ball against Magnolia West.

The shuffle and squeak of feet on the brightly lit court sounds throughout the gym, as all eyes are focused on the single ball that rockets back and forth over the net. Standing ready and focused, team members must be ready at a moment’s notice to keep the ball alive.

Set, Bump, Hit, Spike…. Slam! The ball hits the other side of the court and the team gets a point.

This sort of environment has become a constant in varsity volleyball player Ashley Frichter, life ever since she was twelve years old. Now, as a graduating senior, Fritcher’s countless hours of practice have been honored in her selection to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-America team.

Varsity volleyball coach, Becky Palermo, explained specifically what this recognition means. “This is a huge national honor… The team is similar to the College All American team that is chosen at the Final Four each year. Not only is Fritcher Stratford’s first All American volleyball player, but this also indicates that Ashley is a blue chip athlete,” Palermo said.

Meaning that Fritcher is a shoe in for college scholarships.

Fritcher, who received the news of her selection from a friend, said “It was kind of shocking, and I didn’t know when they were coming out with the list. It was really nice to find out. My coach for college emailed me, and it was just really special to find out”.

After she graduates later this year, Fritcher has plans for her volleyball career in college. Fritcher received a full scholarship for volleyball to Baylor University, having first volleyball committed in February of her sophomore year.

“To begin my college career, I hope to continue learning the sport to reach my potential and to aid my team in achieving our goals,” Fritcher said.

As far as her high school career, Fritcher played on the JV volleyball team as a freshman, and in her sophomore, junior, and senior years, she competed on varsity. When asked about her experience as a volleyball player here at SHS, Fritcher commented that “it was awesome, the coaches are awesome. Palermo is just a really great coach, and I’ve learned so much through her. All the players are super sweet, and I’m glad I got to play with them. I wish I had another year.”

Palermo also shared her expectations of her players as a coach. “My expectations usually have to do with committed hard work and to be team player. Ashley certainly has both.

She is not an ‘all about me’ player. The team comes first,” she said.

Fritcher also said that the most important thing she’s learned from her sport “is how to be a teammate”. “In team sports it’s never for yourself, you are there for your teammates every step of the way. It goes without saying, without setter or passer a hitter cannot do anything. You cannot win the game alone, you need your teammates,” Fritcher said.

As she graduates from Stratford this year, “the recognition going into her college program will be an added perk on her resume, and a huge vote of confidence from the volleyball community in general,” Palermo said. “Ashley is driven, yet very humble. She is always trying to get better!”

GRAPHICS BY SCOTT KENNEDY CONTENT BY PERRY SHEPARD

Inches from Home Plate to the Left Field Fence at “The Backyard” (SHS baseball field)

32 For only $90 look at all of the people who would have seen your ad.

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Minutes in a Spartan basketball game

Lanes at the Emmons Natatorium in Spring Branch

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3 STRATFORD HIGH SCHOOL

Freshmen on the Varsity Tennis Team 2 girls and 1 boy

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