The Classic, Vol 39, No 1, Fall 2022

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Interviewing the Chancellor

A look at S!NG 2023

Classic editors sat down with David Banks, Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, to talk about student press freedoms. The chancellor voiced strong support for student journalists.

Go behind the scenes of the S!NG 2023 production and learn about the artists, directors, and tech crew members who made this year’s student-run performance possible.

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Girls soccer victorious

The Girls Varsity Soccer team won the championship game for their PSAL division in November. Read about their success and other fall athletics victories.

THE CLASSIC TOWNSEND HARRIS HIGH SCHOOL AT QUEENS COLLEGE

thhsclassic.com

• Fall 2022 •

No. 01 | Vol. 39

The price is: write New admissions policy adds writing & video requirements for class of 2027 applicants (page 2) Art by Andy Chen

This issue features a compilation of articles published throughout the fall at thhsclassic.com

NEWS New admissions process asks for writing samples and video message, replacing pandemic “lottery” system

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By Hana Arafa, Carina Fucich, Isabel Jagsaran, and Sadeea Morshed Beginning with the graduating class of 2027, admissions to Townsend Harris High School will be determined by a mixture of classroom grades, the submission of two writing samples, and the creation of a video.

Grades have a 40% weight on the applicant’s admission and the three screening pieces each have a 20% weight on applications. These standards will replace the previous lottery system instituted at the end of former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s term in order to reinstate a more selective system within the Department of Education’s (DOE) guidelines.

Before the pandemic, students were screened through a mixture of state test scores, grades, and attendance. “[This criteria] produced a select group of students who are prepared to begin learning at the pace, depth and level of the way we do it here,” said Principal Brian Condon. However, after COVID hit, the DOE added restrictions to the types of screens that high schools are permitted to implement.

With this, attendance and state test scores were no longer able to factor into admissions decisions. For THHS, this led to a lottery system based on grades and the Diversity in Admissions Initiative. Parent Coordinator Jodie Lasoff said that during last year’s cycle, “We ended up having approximately 9600 students apply and the Office of Student Enrollment originally offered seats to 367 ninth graders.”

The lottery system was implemented for both the graduating classes of 2025 and 2026, with the DOE entirely deciding the process and criteria for the class of 2026.

“There was a level of dissatisfaction with students, parents, staff, and the community that this process had been changed with no authentic consultation,” said Principal Condon.

The lottery system also led to overpopulation at THHS. However, Mr. Condon said he does not believe that the new admissions pro-

The Classic

A humanities essay and a STEM essay are now required to get into THHS

PHOTO: RENCHHEN LAMA

cess will resolve this issue. to imagine and describe said they felt the process According to Mr. Con- scenarios where they would allowed them an opportunity don, while the administra- apply scientific knowledge. to showcase their abilities. tion was considering what One scenario asks students A second student said they criteria could be establi- to think of what modern pie- considered the process unshed, they often compared ce of technology they would fair, particularly considering THHS’s admissions process want with them (and how that current THHS students to that of Bard High School they would use it) if they did not need to undergo it.

Early College, which also w e r e e v e r Mr. Condon said that consists of writing two essahe believes the writing/viys and creating a two minute deo samples are necessary video. because they will show a Mr. Condon said that certain level of preparedif the DOE felt it was “Mr. Condon said that ness that is needed for “good for Bard and success at THHS, nohe believes the writing/ ting that all students [they] let Bard keep it, it should be good have to be ready video samples are nefor us.” to take courses at cessary because they He and a set of the college level as active parents then seniors due to the will show a certain level contacted both the partnership THHS of preparedness that is DOE and the suhas with Queens perintendent about College.

“Three years needed for success at making this change after you walk in the THHS.” to the admissions prodoor [of THHS], you go cess. “[The superintento Queens College. Whedent] was extremely responther you take the seminar or sive and extremely helpful in an elective, that experience understanding why we want is what we are aiming for.” this and helping us get it,” stranded on an island.

Through the online MySsaid Mr. Condon.

The video piece asks chools account that 8th graWhile the change was students to record them in- ders use to rank their high inspired by Bard’s admis- troducing themselves and school choices, they can sions process, the actual discussing how they would access the criteria for the writing prompts are identical contribute to the THHS writing/video samples and to Bard’s prompts and the community and (along the make their submissions. video prompt is similar (but lines of the Ephebic Oath) A third eighth grader who with an Ephebic Oath twist). leave it greater than they spoke to The Classic said The first essay is a lite- found it. that their middle school helrary analysis piece written The Classic spoke to a ped them in the application in response to a speech by small group of eighth grade by sending multiple emaiChimamanda Ngozi Adichie. applicants about the pro- ls to THHS about requireThe second piece relates to cess. Their responses ran- ments and disseminating the STEM and asks applicants ged in opinons. One student responses to their student

body.

The new admissions policy came with general encouragement from the parent community, according to Ms. Lasoff. “I don’t have a large enough data sample to be able to speak for all of our families, but from the limited amount of anecdotal evidence I have gathered, these are changes many THHS families support,” said Mrs. Lasoff.

However, some current students see the new admissions requirements in a different light.

Sophomore Chloe Kavanagh said, “Personally, I think that it’s excessive for students to write two essays and a video. I think [that] one essay is enough.”

Similarly, Freshman Sophia Lee said, “Everyone has different strengths. Some students may not be good essay writers and better at other academic work.”

Some have said that the process lends itself to academic dishonesty, allowing parents or other outside contacts to help the eighth grade applicant write stronger materials.

According to Mr. Condon, the school considered having applicants write the essays in person at THHS, but thought that the process would be too difficult for the amount of applicants who would want to apply.

Townsend Harris teachers and administrators will grade the writing samples and video samples between now and mid-January, using a set rubric and a series of model essays standardized

by THHS. The model essays show grades at each possible rubric level and will ensure consistency between graders, Mr. Condon said.

He said he believes this process will be both fair and help root out any academic dishonesty that might appear: “[We] have been around long enough to know the difference between what a teenager writes and what an adult writes and we have the third verifying factor, which is the video.”

After scoring is done by the THHS faculty, the results go to the DOE to centrally rank the students and then admit them.

Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

NEWS

Students share thoughts on the new admissions process rules

By Reah Joby

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After using a lottery admissions system due to DOE policy, THHS is changing its admissions policies for next year’s freshmen.

PHOTO: KATHERINE LIAN

This fall, Townsend Harris re- tance. I think that it’s a bit unfair to vealed a new admissions policy the students who don’t really have that includes two writing samples the time to submit all this work, but and a video prompt. This is a de- I do understand why they impleparture from previous admissions mented it. policies that largely involved a lotSophomore Anton Rud: I think tery system, and earlier systems admissions should be based enthat relied on report card grades, tirely on merit, your grades, abilities, standardized test scores, and at- and what you can add to the school tendance records. With the re- community. It is disappointing quirements now public and avail- that course grades represent onable on the school’s official web- ly 40% of the admissions criteria, site, many students have been dis- given Townsend Harris’s academcussing it. ic excellence. A short video clip is Below are a sampling of thoughts not proof of any academic or exfrom the student body tracurricular achievements, about the new proand the only factors that cess. can be used to preSenior dict success at Maggie are mid“I think that it’s a bit THHS Huang: dle school I believe GPA , math unfair to the students that the and sciwho don’t really have admisence state sions test scores, the time to submit all policy is teacher recthis work, but I do unnecesommendasary. If I derstand why they im- tion letters, was an inand humaniplemented it.” coming stuties writing. The dent, I would new admissions still apply and I system is not fairthink that other stuer, it’s just more comdents would too if they plicated. cared enough to want to be adSophomore Aastha Pamitted in a challenging academic tel: If I were an incoming student environment. This process is fair I would still apply to THHS beconsidering the fact an individual cause Townsend is a really good could have poor grades from mid- school and it has a lot of resourcdle school and can redeem them- es. The admission policy still values selves through the admissions pro- the grades that students achieved, cess as a potential Harrisite. and it is 40% which is I think pretJunior Olivia Wong: I think ty good. About the other parts of that the admissions policy is better writing, I think it is extra work but it than the admissions policy before. I is worth it since THHS is humanwould prefer to go through the lot- ities-based school. They need to tery system to submitting in all that see if incoming students are interwork. It reduces the overcrowding ested in it or not. This process alin this school, and gives everyone lows students to showcase who a fair chance for getting into this they really are. school based on their work.

Freshman Yugesh Kumar: Junior Varune Seecharan: The new admissions policy seems The admissions this time was not a bit much for incoming students good in my opinion because it’s a to do. I think that this is better than bit excessive. There would be a lot the lottery that was done, because of work to go through, which brings you get in based on your personup the question if they will even go ality. The hypothetical isn’t really through them all? If I was an incom- needed, in my opinion, because it ing student I’d probably still apply doesn’t really tell much. I think the to this school, because of the dis- new policy is pretty fair.

THHS welcomes prospective class of 2027 students at Open House

By Diana Piergrossi

On November 10, Townsend Harris gives us the opportunity to shine a light, held an in-person open house for stu- even if brief, on how well this school serdents interested in applying to the sc- ves our students and that anyone admithool. ted here is lucky to have [such an increIn order to run the event, many current dible] opportunity.” The open house was students volunteered to take the pros- also beneficial for current Harrisites, tour pective students and their families on guides said, allowing them to collabotours around the school, speaking on rate and work together to provide prosbehalf of all that THHS has to offer. pective students the best visit possible.

All of the school’s classes, clubs, and “The open house [also] reminds stuother activities were put on display for vi- dents of what makes our school so great sitors to learn more about, giving deeper and boosts school spirit,” said Kristin. insight into the experience of a Harrisite.

Coordinator of Student Activities Jaime Baranoff said, “Prospective students get such a whirlwind tour that it must be difficult for them to truly grasp how wonderful our academic, extracurricular, and athletic programs are, [as well as] our beautiful community.

“But in meeting and speaking with students, staff members, faculty, and administrators, they can at least experience how special our ‘Townsend people’ are.”

Due to health risks in the past few years, prospective students who attended virtual open houses during the pandemic were not able to get a true feel of the school community. Junior Kristin Lai said, “[The virtual open house was] definitely not as personal or intimate as in-person… It allows for you to talk to a [current]student and hear their personal experience, as well as see the school with your own eyes.”

Senior Class Advisor Blayne Gelbman said, “I Many students volunteered to introduce THHS to the Class of 2027 PHOTO: JANAYA SYDNEY think [the open house] Fall 2022

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The Classic

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Fall 2022

NEWS/FEATURES

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Harrisites talk Spirit Week

By Defne Kaygisiz

“You got to see everyone in their spooky Last week, Harrisites spent the days leaoutfits on Halloween,” senior Nicole Chen ding up to Founders’ Day participating in a said. “More than that, it was a day we could series of themed days designed to encorelax and wear what we want without any urage school spirit. With Halloween on a societal constraints or anyone looking at us Monday, the week began with lots of cosweirdly and making us feel out of place.” tumes and ended, as is tradition, with the “I put a lot of effort into my outfit and spent formal dress students wear to attend the a lot of time making it perfect,” sophomore Founders’ Day ceremony in Colden AudiVee Shupty said. torium.

“I even painted my shoes and shirt. I loved Jaime Baranoff, Coordinator of Student seeing all the costumes. I especially love riActivities and Social Studies teacher, andiculous ones. Some guy was dressed as a nounced this year’s themes. Monday was shark — those inflatables from Amazon — Halloween/costume day, Tuesday was twin and I loved it.” day, Wednesday was country vs country Discussing pajama day, junior Prisye Johclub day, and Thursday was pajama day nson said, “You just get to wear what you (changed from the initial plan of “Adam are comfortable with in school. Also, a lot Sandler day”). of people are unintentionally matching and Student Union members played a key rothat’s really fun to see. The only hard part is le in proposing and selecting the themes staying awake.” for each day.

“I can never pick a favorite Spirit Week “We created a suggestion form, shared day,” sophomore Justin Chin said. “I am exSeniors won the hallway decorating contest this year PHOTO: ERICA LEE it with our senators, and filed through their cited to see all of them play out in their unique submissions,” Junior Class President Heways.” llen Oliveira said. “We looked for the most recurring dition of “country vs. country club day,” which encouPerhaps the only costumes to go beyond Spirit suggestions and chose those as this week’s themes.” raged students to dress either in outfits straight out of Week were those worn throughout the week and inSU Vice President (and Editor-in-Chief of The Clas- a Western or those seen for a day at an upscale club. to today by Election Simulation candidates, who camsic) Kate Estevez said, “It’s always tough to make days “It is a new theme we have never done before,” Ben- paigned in character throughout the final week and for Spirit Week because we want to be original while jamin said. Nonetheless, he said twin day remains his held their candidates debate on Wednesday. With making sure everyone enjoys the days.” favorite “because [he is] a twin.”

Spirit Week ending last Friday, voting for the SimulaSenior Class President (and Classic Features ediStudents shared their thoughts on the creative out- tion is now going on, bringing two Townsend Harris tor) Benjamin Babayev was most excited by the ad- fits their peers came dressed in. traditions to a close for the fall semester.

After PupilPath ban, DOE released its own gradebook platform; here’s what teachers are saying about it

By Nilla Wahab

After a PupilPath data breach that impacted 800,000 students from more than 560 schools in early 2022, the NYC Department of Education banned the system’s use in city public schools at the end of the last school year. Days before

ever seem to be up and fully functional… I’m hoping this is all temporary and the system improves in the coming months.”

English teacher Christine Duffy said that the gradebook lacks key features. “It doesn’t

nus credit).

Teachers can change the weight of those assignments (and the grading categories they appear in). However, according to Ms. Duffy, other features common in online gradebooks like setting up custom

“The new system is clunky, difficult to navigate, [and] doesn’t ever seem to be up and fully functional… I’m hoping this is all temporary and the system improves in the coming months,” said Physical Education teacher Jamal Bermudez. the start of this school year, the DOE launched its own online gradebook system and made it available for teachers to begin learning how to navigate it.

The system is free for schools to use, but so far, Townsend Harris teachers have not had much praise for it.

“It really does suck right now,” Physical Education teacher Jamal Bermudez said.

“The new system is clunky, difficult to navigate, [and] doesn’t

The Classic

have the ability to alter points for assignments or change weights outside of a few limited options,” she said.

In other words, because the system requires schools to set a grading scale for the whole scale, it then requires every assignment to be put in according to that scale, so a homework, a quiz, and a test, each must be input out of 100 points (and cannot exceed 100 points if a teacher wants to offer bo-

marks like “missing” or “excused” for assignments, are unavailable.

According to the DOE’s website, the new system will ensure that parents and students have to navigate between fewer online information systems.

The new software includes attendance and messaging in addition to the gradebook, which the DOE website describes as a “true one stop for

parent facing information to support student learning.”

Parent Coordinator Ms. Lasoff said that another feature is the security in the system, providing students with the ability to “set up security questions and create a PIN #” for their accounts in the situation that their password expires.

In its beta stages, the new gradebook was developed using input from more than 500 schools, including Townsend Harris, and has undergone demo testing with a number of teachers and principals throughout New York City since March.

Teachers received emails in August consisting of instructions on how to operate the new product. They were also invited to live remote sessions for information in the absence of formal in-person training sessions at their schools.

Ms. Duffy said, “The trainings are pointless when the product isn’t functional.”

Ms. Lasoff added, “There was a technology summit in August where teachers were able to participate in live train-

ing, however, I’m unaware whether all teachers were provided with the opportunity…

The asynchronous training on Infohub was released September 8th so teachers are slowly learning as they go along.”

Although use of this new program, released in late August, is not mandatory, schools still need to undergo a process selecting new gradebooks to ensure security standards are met. Assistant Principal of Organization Ellen Fee said, “We won’t be able to purchase a separate gradebook system unless the DOE checks its privacy capabilities.”

This, alongside the fact that this gradebook is free of cost, may make the product a regular feature in the lives of students and teachers.

As of now, teachers have access to the gradebook but students and families cannot yet see their grades online.

According to a DOE FAQ shared with teachers and administrators, families and students “will be able to view their assignments and assignmentlevel grades” starting on October 17.

Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

NEWS/FEATURES

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THHS Japan Bowl winners earn trip to Japan, meet with princess of the Japanese Imperial Family

By JK Rajjo

Senior Janna Habibulla (left) interviews Chancellor Banks at a roundtable.

PHOTO: BRIAN SWEENEY

At student press event, NYC Chancellor voices support for student journalists amidst nationwide clashes over book banning, censorship, and curricula

By Kate Estevez and Janna Habibulla

During a roundtable event held last week at Tweed Courthouse, New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks took questions from student journalists across the city.

In response to questions from The Classic about the elimination of a Nebraska high school journalism program and a wave of restrictions being imposed on subject matter in classrooms across the country, the chancellor expressed support for the rights of student journalists.

Last spring, a high school newspaper located in Grand Island, Nebraska was shut down after students published an issue featuring three pieces on LGBTQ+ topics.

The closing of the paper at Northwest High School, after 54 years of publication, made headlines across the country at a time when numerous states are proposing and passing legislation largely on how LGBTQ+ and race-related topics can be taught in schools.

“I stand for freedom of expression for student journalists here and all across the country,” Chancellor Banks said when asked by The Classic about the Nebraska High School paper. “Education should always be about hearing varying points of views whether you agree with [them] or disagree with [them].

You may not be supportive of the LGBTQ community in your own personal space…but to say we can’t even have a series where we’re talking about those issues is completely wrong.”

In an hour-long discussion with student journalists from schools across the city such as Midwood High School, The Clinton School, and The Urban Assembly for Media Studies, the chancellor repeatedly voiced support for the rights of student journalists and denounced the censorship of student newspapers. Seated alongside multiple students in a Tweed conference room, he spoke fondly of his own experiences feeling valued for his voice as a student government leader at

Hillcrest High School. He also emphasized the importance of student voice from a principal’s perspective, reminiscing about changes he made based on student suggestions during his time as principal of the Eagle Academy for Young Men in the Bronx.

Regarding student journalism, Chancellor Banks said that administrators should not intervene in student reporting unless that reporting were to shut down a class or impede another student’s ability to get an education.

“There should not be decisions that are made that violate your constitutional rights,” he said, noting that student newspapers often play an important role by finding stories that raise awareness about problematic issues within a school. Articles that are “very critical of the school administration” do not provide administrators with a legitimate reason to stop students from expressing their voices, he said.

Student journalists at the Northwest High School Viking Saga newspaper were told in April 2022 that they were required to use student names given at birth in articles. In June, the journalists of the Viking Saga published three articles related to LGBTQ+ topics: an opinion piece on Florida’s socalled “Don’t Say Gay” bill, an opinion piece called “Science of Gender,” and an article on the history of Pride month. The front page also featured two rainbows. The district shut down the school newspaper after the publication of this issue.

Zach Mader, vice president of the Northwest Public Schools board in Nebraska, told The Grand Island Independent, that “there have been talks of doing away with our news if we were not going to be able to control content that we saw [as] inappropriate.” Mr. Madar also explained the apparent reason for the Saga’s demise: “The very last issue that came out this year, there was… a little bit of hostility amongst some.

There were editorials that were essentially, I guess what I would say, LGBTQ.”

Superintendent of Northwest Public Schools Jeffrey Edwards did not return a request for comment from The Classic.

“Unfortunately you’re seeing a lot of that across America,” Chancellor Banks said at the student roundtable, referring to school districts deciding that certain topics should be kept out of schools. “And so I feel challenged in this time and space. I feel like in many ways we’re kind of going backwards as a nation on issues. But the only way forward is for young people to continue to push.”

The chancellor referred to widespread news of recent bans on books and curriculum in numerous states as “deeply problematic.”

In an interview with The Classic, Hillary Davis, Advocacy and Organizing Director of the Student Press Law Center, said, “Nebraska is not an isolated case, not by any means.

Censorship has been a problem in schools across the country for now almost 35 years, ever since the Hazelwood decision of 1988. We have always seen this subjective censorship that is based entirely on the concerns and whims of an administrator.”

The 1988 Hazelwood Supreme Court case upheld a decision by administrators at a Missouri high school to censor two stories from a student newspaper and has set the standard for administrative oversight of school publications ever since.

According to the decision, administrators can exercise “editorial control over the style and content of student speech in school-sponsored [publications] so long as their actions are reasonably related to legitimate pedagogical concerns.”

What counts as a “legitimate pedagogical concern” has been interpreted in numerous ways, and as result, 16 states have since passed legislation to clarify the 1988 standard and explicitly protect students’ First Amendment rights.

Though the chancellor voiced support for New York City journalists, New York is not one of these 16 states.

In April 2022, THHS alumni Daniel Song, Monica Yang, and Betty Guo, Class of 2022, competed in this year’s Japan Bowl and placed second as a level four team, the most difficult level of the competition. In June, according to Japanese teacher Mariko Sato, the THHS level four team received an invitation for a fully funded trip to Japan through the Japanese government’s Kakehashi (Bridge) Program.

Offered for the team’s success at Japan Bowl, the program provided the alumni with a weeklong itinerary of cultural experiences around the Tokyo metropolitan area and other prefectures of Japan this past summer.

During the trip, the group met with Princess Takamado, a member of the Japanese Imperial Family.

Daniel said, “We got up very early every day to prepare ourselves for breakfast and the day ahead. My favorite places were those that involved lots of nature — [such as] Kenroku-en garden (one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan) and Shirakawa-Go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On our trips, we also made a few ‘courtesy calls’ to many important figures in Japan,” he continued. “Most notably, we met with Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, who was such a pleasure to speak to. I was also able to try many Japanese snacks and sweets, ranging from a blueberry cheesecake ice-cream I got from a vending machine in Kanagawa Prefecture, to an exclusive pastry served by private chefs to the Imperial Family.”

“I loved shopping in Akihabara and Harajuku, since the places were so big and there were so many things to explore. I also loved going to the Meiji Shrine, Kanazawa Castle, and Shirakawa-go.

“The scenery was extremely beautiful and I would love to go back again. We had delicious Japanese cuisine for every meal and all of them were so good that after coming back to America, the food here seems bland in comparison,” said Monica.

Betty said, “My favorite experience was going to Kenroku-en. Kenroku-en is known as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, and even though I knew of this before I entered the garden, the scenery still greatly surpassed my expectations. I was able to learn a lot of new things from the trip [and they] broadened my perspective of the world even more.”

Dr. Mariko Sato-Berger, coach of the Japan Bowl team and Japanese teacher, felt proud of Daniel, Monica, and Betty’s accomplishments in the Japan Bowl saying, “They all worked extremely hard for the Japan Bowl in the past three years. They deserve to experience Japan first-hand after learning so much about it.”

Daniel said, “I used to think that I would get easily bored outside of cities, but this trip has taught me otherwise. I was able to experience places that existed outside of the usual tourist destinations, like those in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Sapporo… I was very moved. I had a newfound appreciation for the site beyond what I could get from just reading about it on Wikipedia. In fact, it [were] these smaller areas that are my favorite parts of my trip.”

“There wasn’t any day during my one-week trip that was typical. Every day was different and full of new experiences,” said Monica.

Fall 2022

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SPECIAL FEATURE: S!NG 2023

A look behind the scenes at the S!NG 2023 show The Semores proved victorious this year, ensuring that the Class of 2023 has won two years in a row.

In the months leading up to S!NG’s November performances, both teams worked hard to make sure that the shows were each as professional as possible. Here are two articles The Classic published that looked behind the scenes at the production of this year’s S!NG.

Robyn of the Semores becoming the Prince of Wales.

The Classic

Backdrop artists discuss their craft

ones that made it all possible. I really don’t think that I have it in me to think up something as brilliant as they did.”

Junior Christina Watkins said, “the directors were literLast month’s S!NG perfor- ally awesome even though they mances resulted with a victory were super stressed out.” for the Semores once all the This year, the Semores devotes were tallied. The results cided to switch up their color reflect the work of not just the palette from last year. “When actors and directors but that of we were reading the script, we choreographers, musiwere getting a lot of Tangled cians, writers, and vibes for the backdrop, more.

One so there were a lot of department purples and yelthat always “The original brainstorm- lows. Our backstands drop last year ing process was pretty o u t , was very dark h o w and dull besmooth sailing, especially ever, is cause of our because there were only five show theme, the art departof us. We just read through so this year ment, we wanted the script and gave each which is to use more c h a r g e d other any ideas that came to vibrant, fun w i t h colors,” said mind.” bringing Zoe. visuals in the The Freshiors script to life worked to bring the and producing an mythical Mount Olymenormous painted backpus from their plot to life. drop for each respective show. “The backdrop was supposed The directors of the art de- to resemble Olympus with a partment of the Freshior team plethora of buildings adornincluded juniors Alyssa Shim, ing the mountains behind it,” Anna Sokol and Jackie Singh- Alyssa said.

Each of the artists had their nani. Seniors Mary Kirk, Zoe personal favorites from the Chen, Emily Li, Stacey Chen backdrops.

Alyssa loved “seeing and Estella Chan were the the underworld river of Styx Semore art directors. flat come to life.”

For Apurbo, Alyssa said, “The brainone particular scene stood out: storming process was kind of “Definitely the backdrops in hectic, to be honest. The ideas Siobhan’s home.

[There] was came to mind pretty easily, I think, but it was just a matter so much detail and I love the of hearing each other and just eery, dark magician feel it gives compromising.” She said that off. Perfect for the character.” the directors simply wanted to Junior Tasneem Rahman said “make sure the vision [of the “I really enjoyed having that overall directors] was being creative freedom to design and paint different kinds of houses brought to life.”

For the Semores’ side, Zoe that fit the theme.”

Zoe added that she was alsaid, “The original brainstormways amazed by how the smalling process was pretty smooth est details could make the bigsailing, especially because there gest difference and noted “how were only five of us. We just it all slowly, but surely came toread through the script and gether.”

Mary said, “The small gave each other any ideas that details were so much fun. I saw came to mind.” real growth and talent within Sophomore Apurbo Haider the art department this year, said, “the art directors came and it’s just so evident when up with a design that us crew members helped bring to life.” you look closely at our backTo be honest [coming up with drop.”

Many S!NG art department the designs] was more of the members commented that the Directors’ thing. They were the burnout was getting real by reBy Jasmyn Pillay, Thaseena Anjum, Sophia Aponte, Mariam Ahmed, Amina Asad

SPECIAL FEATURE: S!NG 2023 ferring to the last week before the opening show as ‘hell week.’

“Hell week was truly, well, HELL week. I struggled with keeping my academics afloat while being consistent with coming to S!NG,” Sophomore Shamonti Shamim said.

“Hell Week was just the worst,” said Apurbo. “For performers, they could simply do their work in between scenes when they weren’t on stage. But for us, [art members], we were constantly working on touching things up and adding details to our pieces. There wasn’t much time to get school work done.”

Managing S!NG and school has always been a struggle for students but many students described the final result as rewarding. Christina said, “[I] loved how everyone worked together to make such beautiful art even [though] everyone [was] stressed.” Zoe said, “Because we are all seniors, we also have college applications to do, so a lot of us had to take breaks, especially when the [early decision] and [early action] deadlines came up. A lot of us also had our QC elective classes after school, so it was hard for all of us to be there for the S!NG [meetings].”

Both teams’ art departments shared how much being a part of the S!NG community means to them.

Alyssa said, “I am really thankful for them and without them, there would be no art.” Mary shared how much she “appreciates the recognition [the art department] got from other departments because [they’ve] worked really hard to get this done.”

All photos by Chayti Biswas, Steven Jara, Erica Lee, Katherine Lian, Kaiden Martin, and Lucas Parris. Top right: One of the supervisors (left) and one of the overall directors (right) of the Freshiors. Middle left: The climax of the Semores performance where the King (left) confronts Blanche (right). Middle right: Hermes introducing Zeus in the Freshiors show. Bottom left: The opening dance of the Semores. Bottom right: Oliver of the Freshiors in the Underworld.

Fall 2022

9

10

SPECIAL FEATURE: S!NG 2023

2023 S!NG overall directors look back at their productions

By Farah Rahimzada

A

biggest one for us as overalls [was] pouring the necessary time into the production.”

“There are a number of tasks that one wouldn’t even think of when imagining our directorial duties, such as ordering costumes or planning fundraisers,” Elliot said. “Fortunately, many of our other directors graciously take over duties for some of those.”

The other Semores overall director, Kristen Song, said, “We worked with around the same cast of actors for these two years, and they truly amaze me with how much they’ve grown. As passionate as they were since the beginning of our journey,

Rachel Chan, one of the overall directors for the Freshiors, said, “I believe that S!NG developed a way for me to broaden my perspectives on developing a story. The contrasting opinions from the people around us showed me that there was more than one way to portray a particular line, mood, or action to elevate it, [such as] lighting and music.”

Highlighting a sometimes forgotten yet key group in the production, Rachel said, “In particular, I truly appreciate how THHS Tech Crew helped us through our scenes as they provided suggestions for what we wanted to describe. The lights available in the school aren’t the most high-tech, but their help us what was possi“We worked with around the same cast of actors for showed ble to isolate our characters scenes.” these two years, and they truly amaze me with how for“Icertain believe that being a of S!NG positively much they’ve grown. As passionate as they were part influenced my experience since the beginning of our journey, they’ve only at THHS,” said Freshiors overall director Franxalier improved with each rehearsal and grown comfort- Causapin. “As a transferee, I didn’t know anyone durable on the stage.” ing my sophomore year, but being a part of S!NG made fall. Once rehearsal season began, they’ve only improved with each re- it so much easier for me to make their time after school was fully oc- hearsal and grown comfortable on friends and adjust to THHS.” cupied by the production. Semores the stage.”

The other Freshiors director, overall director (and Classic EditorOn the opposing team, the Fresh- Mikolas Taveras, said, “As for how in-Chief ) Elliot Heath said, “Kris- iors have three overall directors and I became an overall director, that ten [Song] and I [faced] a number reported facing similar challenges to mystery is left with our predecesof challenges as directors. I think the the Semores. sors, since they appointed us [to] s S!NG 2023 came to a close with the Semores announced as the winners on Saturday, November 19th, the fruits of countless hours spent by the hundreds of students who have honed their performances over the past few months were finally showcased. Bringing it all together were the overall directors for each team, who spoke to The Classic about their experiences working on their respective shows.

Over the summer, the Semores overalls met nearly every day for two to three hours to prepare the script and other materials for the

The Classic

the job. I took the role because, in all honesty, I love S!NG and the community it creates, and when given the opportunity to create something magical with [this community], I jumped at it.”

In their speech proceeding the Saturday night show, Elliot and Kristen announced that their succeeding overall directors, who will lead the Freshiors team as juniors next year, will be sophomores Katie Chan and Joshua Chung.

Rachel, Franxalier, and Mikolas will continue on and become next year’s Semore directors.

The pictures on these two pages are all from S!NG 2023. These photos were taken by Chayti Biswas, Steven Jara, Erica Lee, Katherine Lian, Kaiden Martin, and Lucas Parris. On this page, pictured below, The Semores winning S!NG 2023. On the page opposite: Top right: The contemporary lift of the Freshiors. Middle right: The members of the tech crew. Bottom right: The dance battle of the Semores.

SPECIAL FEATURE: S!NG 2023 The tech crew that makes key S!NG moments possible

11

By Emma Lee

Last month, S!NG concluded with the traditional revelation of the winning team by way of the screen at the center of the stage.

It is, however, the work of Townsend Harris High School’s Tech Crew that makes this cherished moment possible.

On the balcony in the back of the auditorium, a team of students has everything ready to go to ensure the winner is released in dramatic fashion.

This is the culmination of months of work by not just the students performing in S!NG but the Tech Crew itself that helps make each show possible.

The Classic spoke to the members of this team to learn more about how they get S!NG ready for audiences and what other projects they support throughout the year.

Senior Brian Judge is the president of the Tech Crew.

He oversees the departments of sound, stage lighting, and projection. Brian said that while he’s in charge of the team, he’s interested in lighting most of all.

“I do help out more with stage lighting as it’s one of my stronger fields,” he said.

The lighting tech members help directors write cues and make sure spotlight and lighting cues go smoothly.

If the president works most with lighting, the Tech Crew’s Vice President, Junior Abby Chang, is all about sound.

In the sound department, members mic up actors, make sure everyone is heard, make sure there isn’t feedback, and play sound effects.

“There are a lot of components to tech,” Abby said. “It requires a lot of work and time to make sure everything goes smoothly. I always try my hardest to make everything perfect.”

As for that dramatic moment when the S!NG winners are revealed, there’s more to it than might meet the eye.

The members of the Tech Crew are among the first in the school to be notified of the winners.

During S!NG 2020, there was an unfortunate event where the winner was accidentally revealed before the countdown, spoiling the surprise.

To avoid such a mishap again, the crew creates two countdown videos, one that leads to a Semore victory and one that leads to a Freshior victory and they make sure to run the winning video only.

Since that system worked so well previously, they did it again this year.

Once told which team won, they get the video ready and put it on standby until the time is right, giving them one of the most important jobs in this production.

Although members of Tech Crew said they enjoy their job, there are many challenges members face during performances and shows.

Sophomore Kyle Zheng said, “The hardest part of Tech Crew is the amount of work that we have to do to keep up with everyone’s needs. Sometimes at the start of rehearsal it’s pure chaos, trying to get everyone mic’d up and making sure everything is in place. The actual work isn’t too hard depending on what you do, so it’s mostly us trying to keep up with everything that’s the hardest.”

Brian said, “I think the hardest part in the Tech Crew is staying very late after school. For the [last] few weeks [of S!NG], we have stayed back late to cater to both teams for S!NG. Now, for me personally, I’m used to staying back late because I have been doing it since my Freshman year when I first joined Tech, and I did it during my Junior year as well. However, this year, we have stayed back late on more days, come in on Saturdays, and have come in on off days/holidays as well.”

Beyond S!NG, the Tech Crew works at FON, the spring musical, concerts, movie nights, award ceremonies, Keeper’s Day, senior meetings, Key Club meetings, Election Sim debates, and more.

When at these events, turning one’s attention from the stage back to the balcony a familiar sight will usually reveal a familiar sight: members of the tech crew hard at work making what’s on the stage possible.

Fall 2022

OPINION

12

OPINION: Team gym should be reinstated Upon receiving programs for the 2022-2023 school year, many student-athletes were puzzled to find that team gym was no longer part of their schedule. In previous years, upperclassmen at Townsend Harris who partook in three PSAL sports across each season of the school year were able to enroll in “team gym.” Since these students were at a sport each day after school, they had a free band during the school day when they would normally be in a physical education class. Unsurprisingly, the removal of team gym has recently sparked significant controversy among the student athlete community.

Between frequent practices and lengthy physically exerting competitions, participating in a PSAL sport is profoundly taxing on a student’s time. Senior Natalia Ramlogan, a three-sport athlete, said “Being on a sports team year-round is especially demanding.

Last year team gym allowed me to get all of my work done and destress before practice. This year it would’ve helped me even more because I have so much school work, like college applications and [the] election simulation.” Taking away team gym has eliminated important free time from athletes’ already hectic schedules.

Senior Aissatou Lam, a member of the Girls Volleyball team, said “A free [band] instead of physical education would be very beneficial because it would give me more time to focus on my Queens College classes or catch up on any studying or classwork.”

Team gym allowed student athletes to devote more time not only to academics, but also to other commitments such as clubs, internships, and jobs.

Junior Anila Tinaj, who is part of the Girls Varsity Volleyball team, said that

“Athletes are working out and doing their sport for over two hours a day. Three-sport athletes 100 percent deserve team gym due to their dedication and hard work to three separate teams. Many of them get home late because of their sport and a free period would help them get ahead on work and study so that they have less of a burden when they get home.”

Throughout my freshman and sophomore years, I was lo- Team gym stopped being offered to students who play sports all year long.

PHOTO: CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM oking forward to the prospect of having team gym and free time vity before, during, and after the school therefore increased the number of PE in my schedule. day, are strongly correlated with positi- classes available for students.” HoweAt the beginning of junior year, it was ve student outcomes.” But undoubte- ver, despite the increased availability disheartening to see that not only was dly, student athletes are already suffi- of PE classes to students, gym classes there no team gym, but I would also ha- ciently exercising every day. remain overcrowded, with most bands ve to take a zero band PE class due to A multitude of THHS athletes play accommodating three gym classes that lack of availability in my schedule. Go- club sports in addition to PSAL sports, must be divided across different parts ing to school early and returning home and the additional hours spent exer- of the THHS campus. late due to sports practices every day is cising can be physically taxing. Track With winter inching closer, the outdraining and leaves little time for com- athlete Emma Cheng said that “team door track will no longer be an option pleting homework. gym would have served as a way to for classes that may need to fit scores Having team gym would both help ensure student athletes weren’t ove- of students in the available indoor spaalleviate stress for athletes and make rexerting themselves when participa- ce. programming easier for students and ting in sports, which can be physically Playing sports year-round is difficult administrators. and mentally stressful. Excessive phy- to manage as a student, so consideThe empty slot on students’ schedu- sical activity can lead to injury as well.” ring that these athletes are already geles would give students more freedom Team gym was also discontinued tting ample exercise daily, it would be to take desired classes without the bur- due to the high number of physical edu- greatly more convenient to have a free den of a zero band class. cation teachers. period rather than an unnecessary phyThe SU 2022-2023 FAQ Document According to Assistant Princi- sical education class. states that team gym would not be ad- pal Ellen Fee, “Team Gym started as Even though team gym was taken ministered this year because “PE is an a class when we lost one of our PE away for logistical reasons, it should be important activity every day during sc- teachers (about ten years ago) to reti- reinstituted to relieve stress on athletes hool. Research shows that two compo- rement and had fewer PE classes…we and enable them to thrive academically, nents, good nutrition and physical acti- now have 7 full-time PE teachers and mentally, and physically.

A roundup of opinions on new COVID guidelines instituted by the DOE On Tuesday, August 12, the Department of Education (DOE) revealed its new plans regarding COVID guidelines and health protocols for the upcoming school year.

The daily health screenings that staff and students had to fill out before entering the building are no longer required.

While masks are “strongly recommended to be worn indoors,” according to the DOE, they will only be necessary for individuals who return to the building six days after testing positive until the tenth day.

The vaccination requirements for students who participate in “high-risk extracurricular activities, including high-risk PSAL sports” will still be mandated for any school visitors and DOE employees.

All school buildings will continue to be cleaned regularly and air purifiers will be placed in every classroom to ensure safety and ventilation.

Students will also no longer be able to receive random in-school PCR testing. Instead, schools will offer at-home test kits to those who may have been exposed to COVID in school and tho-

The Classic

By Audrey Lin

se showing symptoms.

An additional four tests per month will be given to each staff and student to utilize at home.

Student Opinions:

Jazlyn Lyric Febles, Freshman: “I agree with the DOE [protocol changes] because unless COVID gets atrocious, with everyone’s vaccines “I think we eventually I don’t see hy theneeded a way to shift wre’s a proback to not wearing blem with not having masks and I just wish to wear a there would be more mask. transparency and a I think it’s great requirement for masks hain the case of new CO- vewethewillchoiVID surges.” ce.”

Ayoub Ayoub, Sophomore: “A lot of people consider COVID to be over, which I partly agree with. Personally, I don’t wear masks unless I am in a high-risk area or a high-population area, which I think should be somewhat implemented in schools.

The health screening was always useless.

I think [these changes will help to] progress our school year into a more normal high school experience, which is what I think the majority of [students] want.”

Hailey Phuntsok, Sophomore: “The DOE making masks optional is great because you can choose whether or not you want to wear one but I personally feel like it would be better to have masks mandatory just to be safe.

The health screening was a great

By Bridgette Jeonarine, Audrey Lin, and Ewa Stasiewicz

way to check if it was safe for someone to be in the building but it did take quite a while to get inside the school, so no longer [requiring] it may be more efficient.”

Rabtah Jinan, Junior: “I think we eventually needed a way to shift back to not wearing masks and I just wish there would be more transparency and a requirement for masks in the case of new COVID surges.

With the DOE taking off mask mandates and shortening quarantine time, I think the vaccines are needed to lessen the spread of COVID [when participating in high-risk extracurriculars].”

Abhijot Saini, Senior: “As we’re slowly recovering from this pandemic, I think it’s really important that we don’t rush anything. I think it’s crucial to make everyone in our community feel comfortable, whether that be with or without wearing masks.

I don’t believe that we should totally move on from the COVID-19 protocols because it’s important that we still keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.”

Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

OPINION

13

Editorial

EDITORIAL STAFF 2022-2023

At last, a new school year begins without a battle over safety protocols

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Kate Estevez Janna Habibulla Elliot Heath NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY Faiza Tasnim Chayti Biswas Nilla Wahab Erica Lee FEATURES Benjamin Babayev Esther Liu

SOCIAL MEDIA Kelly Gildea Christine Pak

OPINION Sadiyah Ahmed Audrey Lin Ewa Stasiewicz

ART TEAM Andy Chen Jialin Chen Kaitlyn Cheng Veronica Kuzma Annie Park

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Christopher Crisanto Emma Joa Reem Nasrallah

MULTIMEDIA TEAM Amelia Ferrell Riya Singh Ryan Young Devin Wu

SPORTS Madeline Cannon Caylin Chan Lauren Hamlin Zaynah Shariff

EST. 1984

SCIENCE & TECH Carolina Corcuera Genessa Kahn

MANAGING EDITORS Hana Arafa, Carina Fucich, Isabel Jagsaran, Katherine Lian, and Sadeea Morshed ADVISOR Brian Sweeney A thermometer for defunct Covid-19 procedures remains in the lobby.

PHOTO: AUDREY CHOU

Copy Team: Jackie Chen (Copy Chief), Allen Babakhanov, Michael Babayev, Matthew Cantor, Daffny Cardoso, Anonnya Debi, Bridgette Jeonarine, Maria Mattei, JK Rajjo, Queenie Sze, Chloe Samuel Szeto, Sophia Sookram, Shayra Shoshi

On the morning of September 8, but slowly became indefinite as co- dents were met with mandatory Townsend Harris students appro- ronavirus cases rose at alarming ra- health screenings, vaccination staached the building hoping for a tes. tus issues, social distancing meaWe welcome letters to the editor. smooth first day of school.

This four-week period upgraded sures, and mask guidelines.

The Classic Townsend Harris High School reserves the right The flocks of Harrisites streamed to a shutdown of all NYC DOE scQuestions also began to arise 149-11 Melbourne Avenue in through the front doors, scanning hools for the school year. around PSAL and high-contact to edit letters for Flushing, NY 11367 the atrium for the board containing Educators were required to stick extracurricular activities like S!NG, clarity and concithhsclassic@gmail.com their official class before filing into with online learning, a foreign form programs that later instituted vacsion. the auditorium or cafeteria. of teaching to which both faculty cine mandates for participating stuThe Classic is an open forum for the expresWith noticeably fewer masks and and students had to adjust. dents under DOE policy. sion of student views. The opinions expressed no health screening checks in sight, Earlier this month, students arritherein should not be taken to represent those this was a different first day of schoved at the start of the 2022-2023 of the administration or faculty, or of the student ol: a fairly normal one. academic year, and the primary body as a whole.

Last September, following concerns students had were nearly 18 months of quaran“The journey to finally leave schedule uncertainties, zero tine and remote learning, COVID-19 behind us has not band changes, the possible Harrisites finally returned addition of a 10th band, been particularly linear, and to school fully in person. and PE Class outcries it’s clearly not over. CommuA long line snaked over the loss of team nity members are still testing around the building as gym. students anxiously reIn other words, regupositive all too regularly. Lives freshed their phone lar school issues. are still being interrupted, and browsers to get their The journey to finally unfortunately, cut short across SSIC. health screenings worleave COVID-19 behind HSCLA H T the country. However, for the king. us has not been particuAfter PupilPath ban, DOE released COM time being, it is comforting to The mandatory queslarly linear, and it’s clearits own gradebook platform; here’s tionnaire, a brief array of ly not over.

Community what teachers are saying about it see a shift in discourse at the questions concerning COmembers are still testing poby Nilla Wahab start of this school year.”

VID-19 symptoms, vaccine sitive all too regularly.

For articles status, and possible exposure, Lives are still being interrupwas required for all individuals to ted, and unfortunately, cut short published New chemistry teacher Olivia enter the school building. across the country.

As the year progressed, screenHowever, for the time being, it is Comer joins faculty by Nilla Wahab shots of health screenings on one’s The following year (2020-2021) comforting to see a shift in discofrom camera roll became a defining sta- began with chaos. urse at the start of this school year. ple of the year.

The DOE attempted to institute Students with frequent program September Face coverings, worn by every a hybrid learning system, balancing changes and concerns about their "A new Gelbman joins the THHS individual when mandated and still both in-person and online schoo- PE classes might have felt this was faculty” by Jasmin Perez and Janaya 2022 most when made optional months ling that was introduced, but with a hectic start to the semester, but Sydney later, just contributed to the surre- little success. this kind of messiness is a welcoto December al atmosphere of the post-COVID After it became clear that the tea- me one compared to previous years school system. ching requirements would impact and it’s very reassuring knowing MULTIMEDIA 2022 In March 2020, then-Mayor Bi- the THHS program, less than 10% that as a community, we are worS!NG 2023 Highlights ll De Blasio closed public schools of the student body signed up. king towards overcoming these

by Katherine Lian for a session of remote learning that When the 2021-2022 scho- challenges and returning to some was supposed to last four weeks ol year finally began in-person stu- semblance of normalcy.

Top ONLINE ARTICLES 1 NEWS

2 FEATURES 3 FEATURES 4

Fall 2022

14 For Banned Books Week, THHS Librarian sets up read in, urges students to get library cards

By Reem Nasrallah With Banned Books Week beginning this week, the Townsend Harris library is planning to raise awareness about censorship and the importance of reading in various ways throughout the week. In addition to daily announcements and library activities throughout the week, on Wednesday, all students and teachers will pause during an extended third band for a “read in,” where they will read whatever they choose to read independently.

To encourage students to read both this week and throughout the school year, on Monday, September 12, Librarian Arlene Laverde sent out an email informing students that September is Library Card Sign-Up Month.

People who live, work, or go to school in New York City are eligible for a free library card in Queens Public, Brooklyn Public, and New York Public Libraries. Ms. Laverde released a video explaining the process to sign up for a library card and encouraged students to take the opportunity to do so.

“Students in New York City don’t realize how lucky they are to have access to all three [library] systems,” said Ms. Laverde. “With a public library card, you can access hundreds of databases [for research needs]…thousands of books, electronic books, and audiobooks.”

Despite the large amount of resources available to Library Card Holders, the act of physically going to the library to borrow and return books, or signing up for a library card, is unappealing to some people. Ms. Laverde said, “Even if you don’t want to walk into a library…[you can get an] e-card. You fill out the form online… you get your library card, set your pin, and now you have access to all the databases, movies, and music.”

In a letter to all students and parents announcing the reading period, Ms. Laverde wrote, “​​Research has shown a direct correlation between academic success and reading, and it’s clear that when we read more we learn more.

Beyond that, however, I believe that building a culture of reading and teaching students to make daily time for personal reading just makes lives better.”

The Classic

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A look at the new Graphic Design course phic design. Graphic design is proAt Townsend Harris Hiblem solving. When gh School, students weiyou think about the gh their career prospects speed bump, it was in a wide variety of disciplia solution to a prones, and the elective coblem. People were urse offerings are often speeding, so they their guides to success. put a speed bump For many, the graphic dewhich forced peosign course, which debuple to slow down. ted last year, allows artisThe idea of a speed tically minded students to bump was created explore their options in an as a graphic design increasingly digital world. element and then The class is held in the art submitted to a goroom, room 511, and fosvernment agency,” ters opportunities for digishe said. “It’s not tal creativity. just photoshopping Art teacher Melissa Nasomething funny in kos said, “[Graphic dethe back of a picsign] is a beginner courture. It’s also a lot se for freshmen, but theabout problem solre are other grades in theving.” re. We cover the elements Junior Sandra of art and the principles Sandoval agrees of design; units consist of that there are a working with color, wormyriad of different king with value, and incorapplications of graporating that with physical phic design and the PHOTO: MAGGIE HUANG artwork, but then transla- Students share thoughts on the new graphic design course. skills that come with ting it to digital.” In her opiniit that exist outside the on, the class enriches the art mostly digital art so it was an as Photoshop and Adobe Illusborders of the “field of program offerings at THHS opportunity to further my skill trator. Using these platforms art.” because “it gives students an set in that area.” is not only beneficial for proShe said, “I want to go into opportunity to see how to work Senior Blessing Ogunsola spective art and design stu- marketing/advertising and an with materials that are not the looks forward to mastering the dents, said Ms. Nakos, but for important aspect of that is gratraditional materials […]. It lets Adobe programs, saying “I ho- any student entering into a di- phic design and being able to them use their skills in techno- pe aspects of Photoshop wi- gital world. create campaigns online. Thelogy to put their ideas into a di- ll be covered.” Other students “Unless you’re planning on refore, I felt that graphic design gital format.” also agree that navigating the going straight to surgery,” Ms. was more beneficial for my reJunior Tiffany Agbonwane- quintessential digital arts plat- Nakos says, “these skills are sume and career.” ten said that she was “exci- form is something they hope to helpful.” Bringing the subject Tiffany said, “I think this class ted about learning the ins and learn. Part of the work that co- to the world outside the class- does enrich my experience as outs of digital art materials and mes with taking this class in- room, Ms. Nakos discussed an artist. Art is like any other how to use them to their full volves learning how to use va- the practical and more tangi- skill: it requires practice and capacity. I decided to choose rious platforms popular in the ble manifestations of graphic this class offers a great opporthis class because I practice graphic design industry, such design. “Everything is gra- tunity for practicing digital art.

By Alessandra Diaz

Students share their favorite fall flavors

By Emily Cantos During the fall months, pumpkin spice prime time arrived.

The season gives way to flavors ranging from iconic fall staples to ones more niche but equally as tasty. As expected, Harrisites are raving about their most loved and anticipated eats this fall season.

Pumpkin Spice The pumpkin spice latte craze seems to be never ending, as it is one of the few flavors that companies like Starbucks and Dunkin bring back every fall. French teacher Caroline Lopera said, “First of all, I like pumpkin even though it’s sweet and I don’t typically like sweets. It means that fall, my favorite season, is here.”

Pumpkin spice is quite popular in its pie form. Sophomore Yzabel Pusing said, “[Pumpkin pie] is like the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy.” Be-

ing able to bite into something and get instant nostalgia is one of the many powers food has over us. Junior Liam Trimble said, “I really like pumpkin pie, it reminds me of fall and October specifically.”

Apple Apple, ano- ART: VIVIAN CHEN ther famous fall flavor, comes in a range of tre- said, “Caramel apples in par- fall and it really added to the coats. Freshman Olivia Baik said, ticular are what I would eat at zy vibe that fall has. This year “Apple pie is very ‘cinnamon-y’, the carnival each fall. They are Dunkin added a ‘Pumpkin Cold it reminds me of fall and apple so good.”

Foam Chai’ and that really felt picking.” Like its competitor, Chai (Lattes) like everything good about fall pumpkin spice, apples are also Chai lattes have quickly be- wrapped into one.” enjoyed in many different for- come more popular due to their Be sure to test out these ms, including apple pie, apple- versatility and lightly sweet tas- Harrisite approved foods next sauce, and caramel apples. te. Junior Nicholas Ackerman time you’re looking for an auSophomore Azeezat Yusuf said, “I first tried a chai latte last tumnal aliment.

Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

15

How Harrisites Celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival

By Queenie Sze how the holiday is celebrated in On the fifteenth day of the ei- China versus how it’s celebraghth lunar month, families gather ted currently in New York. She to celebrate the Mid-Autumn said that while Queens is a difestival (中秋节), a joyous oc- verse place where you are likely casion where individuals reunite to see members of East Asian to worship the full moon and the communities preparing for the harvest season. Also known as festival on the streets, it’s much the Mooncake festival, this fes- bigger in China: “In China, sintival is a holiday that is celebra- ce practically everyone underted globally, especially in East stands what the festival repreAsian countries. This year, The sents, it feels like a national holiClassic dived into learday comparable to Christning more about mas.” the Mid-AuSenior Annie Lei “I absolutely love tumn Festival, also described going to my uncle’s celebrated how celebration Septemon practices dihouse to get hit with ber 10 this ffer in the two wafts of delicious year, through regions. “Along food ready to be the perspecwith having faeaten.” tives and expemily dinners togeriences of Harrither [in China], celesites. brating the festival [inJunior Joy Zheng decludes] activities, such as moscribed the holiday as “a day on-viewing and releasing lansignifying love and the strength terns in the sky. There are also of family,” after sharing a story many in China who still celebraabout the moon goddess Chang te the holiday with traditional hoE, who fell in love with a human memade mooncakes. This is in and was banished to the sky be- contrast to what we see in Amecause their love was forbidden. rica, where buying mooncakes “After the gods considered from your local bakery or Asian how miserable she was, they supermarket is more convenient allowed her to visit him once a than making them by hand.” year, [marking the day as the] Annie also described why moMid-Autumn festival,” Joy said. oncakes are specifically purchaThis legendary tale was passed sed as gifts and eaten during the down from one generation to the Mid-Autumn festival by stating, next, and is still being taught in “The festival [is not] the same Chinese educational institutions with[out] mooncakes. The rich today. and salty yolk in the center baJunior Rachel Chan compared lances the sweetness of the lo-

Students share their favorite moments from the Mid-Autumn Festival.

tus filling around it. With the yolk representing the fullest and brightest moon of the year, sharing a slice of moon cake with family signifies the togetherness and warmth of your loved ones. It goes perfectly with a warm cup of jasmine tea on an autumn night.”

In the past few years, Harrisites have celebrated the holiday differently because of the safety restrictions that were implemented due to the pandemic. Annie said she celebrated the holiday more privately in recent years: “[After my primary relatives] have a well-prepared dinner together, [we] light incense and pray to the moon for its blessings. When we

pray, we also set a chicken, mooncakes, and a bowl of fruits on the table as offerings.”

Rachel said, “We celebrate it with our close family relatives, which [include] my aunt and uncle. We live only ten minutes away from each other, so it is quite easy to organize celebrations this way. I absolutely love going to my uncle’s house to get hit with wafts of delicious food ready to be eaten.”

Joy said that she was able to feel a stronger connection with distant relatives and value her family more due to the holiday.

“During the mid-autumn festival [every year], distant family mem-

ART: ANNIE PARK

bers from different states would travel to New York to celebrate with us. I was also introduced to a new cousin recently. I get to reunite with all my family members, and it celebrates the fortitude and significance of family.

We also have traditional dishes that include dumplings, purple rice, homemade desserts, [and more].”

For junior Camille Lin, her family’s celebration of the Mid-Autumn festival incorporates other forms of traditional dishes: “[During 中秋节] , we usually eat traditional dishes, such as crab and duck…many also eat snails during this holiday.”

Harrisites flock to Harry Styles concerts at MSG

By Isabella Zapata Singer-songwriter Harry Styles has quickly topped the charts and has become one of the most popular and listened to artists.

He released 3 studio albums in the past five years and has just recently played a lead role in the movie Don’t Worry Darling, acting alongside actress Florence Pugh.

Styles began his tour, Love On Tour, last year, performing songs from his second studio album Fine Line throughout the United States.

He then flew over to Europe and South America, repeatedly selling out stadiums, and eventually arrived at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.

Harry Styles proceeded to fill Madison Square Garden fifteen

times in a row, each time in a new outfit and playing tracks from both his second and third studio albums: Fine Line and Harry’s House.

He also included One Direction’s “What Makes You Beautiful” and his unreleased song “Medicine.”

Senior Amber Spolansky said, “I saw Harry Styles last Halloween and two times this summer.

The feeling you have even before the concerts starts is indescribable. Everyone there is so kind, and the energy is unmatched.”

Whether he’s showcasing his latest outfit or carrying around a boa, fans have gone repeatedly to hear him sing.

Sophomore Madison Donenfeld said, “Harry at Madison Square Garden was a great experience. I thought that the fact

that one of my favorite artists had fifteen concerts in my city was really special. Harry is an insane performer.

Even if someone’s not a huge fan of his, I recommend they see him at some point.”

When it comes to Styles’s ART: VERONICA KUZMA choices of clothing, as his Many Harrisites watched Styles live at his concerts. whole tour had been styled

by Gucci, sophomore Tristin Styles arrived in.

For those who couldn’t attend Hall said, “his outfits are very exSophomore Denise Chan, or were unable to purchase tickpressive and he shows that his who also attended a show over ets, social media was able to creativity is not only in music but the summer, talked about Styles provide clips of every note-worin fashion and clothes, in which as a performer. thy moment from each concert. he has become a trendsetter.”

She said, “Harry has a charm Freshman Kinza Hafeez said, Madison said, “It was a rou- that makes him this charismat- “The TikToks and reels of contine for me and my friends: ev- ic individual that somehow man- cert clips showcase Harry’s ery night we would check what ages to get the entire crowd to concert and take people who he was wearing.” dance and sing their hearts out. weren’t able to go live on a sort Each night the concerts were As an artist, I definitely enjoy his of virtual concert, so they can still elevated by the polka dots, se- music but there’s so much more enjoy what they missed.” quins, tracksuits, and zig zags about him.”

Fall 2022

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

16

Do blue light glasses really work?

By Carolina Corcuera In the past decade, the presence of artificial blue light in the daily lives of students has increased substantially. Every class involves the use of a light emitting diode (LED) device in some shape or form, raising concerns over the impact of blue light on students’ optical health and sleep schedules. To remedy this, many individuals have adopted anti-blue light lenses, which have yet to be proven fully effective by scientific studies.

The users of these lenses, however, herald their efficacy. “When I’m looking at a screen, using blue light glasses gets rid of my eye strain,” said sophomore Renchhen Lama.

Blue light is a color in the visible light spectrum with low wavelength and high energy. Our main source of blue light is the sun, and it also radiates from computers, phones, TVs, and fluorescent and LED light bulbs.

To explain the issue with excessive blue light, we must first explain the role it is supposed to play in influencing our bodily functions. In natural doses, blue light is beneficial; it keeps you awake, alert, and positive during the day. It also regulates our bodies’ circadian rhythm, or our natural wake and sleep cycle. Exposure to it suppresses the release of melatonin, a hormone that makes us drowsy, resulting in our urges to wake up at sunrise and sleep at sunset.

The use of blue light sources past

sunset is known to significantly delay our circadian rhythm by preventing the release of melatonin. One study showed that using an E-Reader within the hours before bed correlated with worse sleep quality and less morning alertness.

“Looking at my phone before bed makes it hard to fall asleep, and I end up staying awake a little longer,” said junior Julia Chang.

A disturbance of our circadian rhythms can increase the risk of several health adversities, including diabetes 2, premature death, cardiovascular dysfunction, cancer, metabolic syndrome, immune dysregulation, reproductive problems, learning deficits and mood disorders. These mood disorders include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and seasonal affective disorder.

Another concern is the effect of blue light on our eyes.Many worry that it could possibly cause retinal damage and macular degeneration—however, the gravity of this issue is over exaggerated. Though there is evidence that constantly looking at powerful blue light sources is dangerous (i.e. the sun or military grade flashlights), looking at screens generally isn’t. The brightness of a screen or fluorescent lightbulb is not strong enough to pose a real threat to our vision, as it is not nearly as bright as the sun. Ultimately, there is insufficient evidence when it comes to any sort of correlation between blue light and vision damage.

Blue light glasses are very popular amongst students and seem to work for many.

PHOTO: PIXABAY

Students have expressed short-term experiences of eye strain, dry eye and headaches associated with prolonged screen time sessions; junior Sophia Jiang said, “Working on a computer for a long time hurts my eyes.” Some say that blue light is the reason, however, there is insufficient evidence for that connection, too. Studies show that exposure to blue light emitting devices doesn’t have a notable effect on our eyes. Instead, focusing causes us not to blink, which is the main cause of most of our troubles. Still, some individuals suffer from light sensitivity, so that may be the source of their migraines.

When it comes to the purchase of blue light glasses, studies have shown

that they can help with sleep quality and quantity, but have not yet proved impactful towards optical health, which was a main draw for students in the market.

Despite being sold by legitimate ophthalmologists, there has not yet been a consensus on their effectiveness. Even so, there is no harm in wearing them, if they seem to work for you. To successfully prevent eye strain, experts suggest to sit about 25 inches away from the screen, use eye drops, and practice the 20-20-20 rule: look away from the screen every 20 minutes at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. For those with light sensitivity, FL-41 lenses are the better choice.

Introducing the Gaming Club

By Carolina Corcuera Without a doubt, gaming is one of the most commonly enjoyed pastimes of our generation. Nearly every Harrisite is a fan of a game, whether it be Valorant, Genshin Impact or Candy Crush—for a school so saturated with gamers, it seemed odd that Townsend Harris lacked a gaming club for as long as it did.

Like many others, Seniors Emily Prasad and Brian Hsu were surprised when they arrived at that fact their freshman year. “We’ve always played games throughout middle school, and starting high school, we had not found a place where people could participate in it together,” said Emily. “We were inspired by all the other schools [who] had gaming clubs, and even esports teams, which made us wonder why we don’t have one as well.”

Last spring, the pair were successfully able to pass club applications to start their own gaming club. They’ve also confirmed that they’ll be joining EZ Esports, a non-profit esports league for New York

The Classic

City high schools. Students will be able to compete in a variety of gaming tournaments with other high schoolers, just like in the Public School Athletic League (PSAL); games such as League of Legends, Valorant, Rocket League, or Tetris, will serve as platforms for the competitions. Spectators–who may include parents, friends, teachers, and even scouts–are able to watch live broadcasts “of the highest quality,” their site claims.

As previously stated, EZ Esports reveals a pathway for aspiring gamers to be discovered by scouts, which may lead to athletic scholarships or invitations to professional teams.

Nowadays, 175 colleges and universities in the U.S. offer athletic scholarships to progamers.

Their focus won’t simply be on playing games, however.

“During our in-person meetings, we plan to have discussions about issues in the gaming industry, such as [gamer stereotypes], the underrepresentation of women, and how we can combat them as

a community,” Emily said. “We also plan to dive into the appeal of games; [for example,] the psychology behind modern games, mobile vs. desktop games, [and] the history of online games.”

She added that the club will also be covering several aspects of game development, “including elements, assets, scenes, camera movement.” For students openly exploring career paths, examining the gaming world’s backstage would be quite worthwhile. With the continuous expansion of gaming technology, the video game industry is the largest and fastest growing entertainment industry, according to Statista. The demand for talented developers, designers and writers is ever increasing.

Not many adults see gaming as a valuable extracurricular activity; it is not something that most parents encourage their children to pursue, like physical sports or music. At first glance, it may seem that what someone does online has no effect on the real world.

Yet, gaming can very well de-

velop one’s brain by pushing them to overcome challenges.

Scientific studies have indicated benefits to electronic gaming, including improved visualization, memory, reaction time, and various other skills based on the type of game. Furthermore, it offers opportunities to interact and bond with others by providing a common interest. Multiplayer games foster teamwork skills and character development.

Not only are video games enjoyable, they are rather fruitful, and it’s perhaps something worth joining the gaming club for.

Emily said, “We have biweekly meetings on Tuesdays and alternate between in-person and online meetings. We hold in person meetings in room 514, after school, and online meetings on Discord around 6-7 (time is TBD this year).”

Blue light glasses are very popular amongst students and seem to work for many.

PHOTO: PIXABAY

Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

17

Harrisites share their experiences from the Sophie Davis mentorship program

By Shayra Shoshi Although Townsend Harris High School is known for its humanities focus, numerous students want to take part in STEM programs and pursue STEM careers. This summer, several Harrisites explored their interests by participating in various medical internships and opportunities, including the Sophie Davis Health Professions Mentorship (HPMP) at CUNY School of Medicine.

In total, seven THHS students enrolled in this year’s program—five juniors and two seniors.

HPMP shows students what it is like to work as a medical student and health professional. It is suited for students who plan to one day join the medical field, like Junior Iyad Elbouani and Senior Pierre Marbid.

Iyad, a first year HPMP student, said, “From what I knew, this program would provide insight into different aspects of the medical field as well as help [develop my] individual and collaborative skills in solving medical issues.”

Pierre, a second year HPMP student, said, “Growing up with my mother, who is a respiratory therapist, as well as with many of my aunts and uncles who are registered nurses, I have always been passionate about the medical field and aspire to become a doctor in the future.”

The program spans two consecutive years and starts in junior year. Within each term, students take 4-week summer classes in July and oncea-month Saturday classes

throughout the academic year.

The summer portion of both years in the program consists of a group presentation with mentors, though the content of the presentations varies.

According to Iyad, during the first year’s summer session, students presented a “community health based project,” and, according to Pierre, in the second year students presented “a research presentation on any medical topic.”

The monthly Saturday sessions consist of various activities, projects, and lectures.

Pierre said that they are usually about “different organ systems, clinical cases, healthcare professions, and the college admissions process.”

Along with informational features on college admissions, Saturday sessions also offer standardized test preparation. Pierre said, “we have done prep for the SAT/ACT, conducted mock interviews, listened to a panel of healthcare professionals of different specialties, gained knowledge and advice for admission into the Sophie Davis BS/MD program, and many more useful activities.”

The participants describe the Sophie Davis Health Professions Mentorship as a positive, productive, and worthwhile experience.

Iyad said, “Not only did I learn [new] things about the medical field… but I connected with some medical students who can guide me in the future.”

Pierre said that his decision to join the program, “has proven itself to be both extremely rewarding and invaluable.”

Students took part in a medical training summer opportunity.

PHOTO: PIXABAY

The spotted lantern fly, an invasive species, is now found outside the THHS building.

PHOTO: MINHAZ HASA

Insect invaders: The spotted lanternfly putting the grape, orchard, and logging industries all at risk. They may not directly kill these plants, but they do maIf you look in the corners of ke them far weaker, resulting in the Townsend Harris cour- smaller yields and visible healtyard, you’re likely to see nu- th declines. Even further, the merous blotches colored bri- honeydew that lanternflies seght red and pale brown squ- crete can host black fungi, inviashed into the cement. These ting stinging bugs and leaving are the smeared corpses of the a sooty mold wherever they vispotted lanternfly. To some, it sit. They won’t hurt humans, might be a revolting and maca- but they have been known to bre sight, but the killing of this be a terrible nuisance to us by creature is necessary. Perhaps climbing up our shirts, accuyou’ve even encountered a mulating on our belongings, few, dead or alive, congrega- and joining us en masse indoting in your own neighborhoo- ors. ds. Suddenly common in New According to a story from York City, the lanternfly can be The Washington Post, a slew found practically everywhe- of them began attacking the re in the Northeastern United author at a restaurant, landing States. all over him and diving into his First seen in Pennsylvania drink. In Allentown, Pennsylvaeight years ago, the invasi- nia, near where they first appeve pests are thought to have ared, lanternflies have covered been stowed away on a sto- entire trees and patios in their ne shipment in 2012 from Chi- honeydew, which drips down na. Because they are not good on the people sitting below. flyers, lanternflies have adapNow, occurrences like these ted by hitchhiking on cars, clo- are beginning to happen even thes, and a variety of other flat at THHS. surfaces to spread all over the “The first time I saw a lanterEast Coast, being an invasive nfly was when it landed on my species. There are a few na- friend’s hair,” Junior Judy Liang tural predators in the areas said. “I don’t like how there’s where they’re present, such as so much goo when you squpraying mantises, garden spi- ish them.” ders and chickens; still, these “In the courtyard, one of species are not nearly enough them flew onto me,” added Juto combat the rapid reproduc- nior Shranaya Kumar. “Thetion rate of the lanternfly. re was also a whole swarm of “I saw one when I was hiking them on the track, so I got scaback in 2019, but I didn’t know red and ran away instead of kiwhat it was, so I didn’t kill it,” lling them.”

Sophomore Ava Pusing said.

“They seem very disgusting,” “Now, I’ve been seeing them added senior Kylie Chiang. much more often in the city. My At about one inch long, it is friends and I have been making apparent that they can grow an effort to kill them; we’ve go- bothersome in large numbers. tten six so far.”

The adults are rather obvious, Although the small insects with large, beige wings and may seem harmless, or even distinct black spots. beautiful, they are extremeUnderneath is a layer of bloly damaging to the agricultu- od orange, with more spots ral industry and local ecology. and a white band.

Lanternflies feed on a wide vaIn November, we’ll see them riety of fruit plants and trees, disappear momentarily, as it’ll

By Carolina Corcuera and Chiara Chen

be the end of this generation’s life cycle. However, groups of 30 to 60 eggs will be lying in wait; they are small, placed in neat rows, and covered in a fluid similar in color and consistency to mud.

Once the winter storms cease around April, they will make their debut as nymphs, now entirely black with white spots.

As they have yet to grow wings, they’ll be found climbing up bushes and trees.

From then to July, they’ll experience four instars, or stages of development, where they’ll change color to black and red with white spots. Their length during the nymph stage is 1/8 to 1/2 inch. Soon after, they’ll become the adults we all know and hate once more.

The USDA strongly urges everyone to help deplete lanternfly populations by keeping a lookout for honeydew, the aforementioned “sooty mold,” and a fermented smell coming from oozing plants.

These are all signals that a lanternfly has visited that area and is lurking nearby.

It is also helpful to check smooth surfaces for mud-like egg masses. If you happen to find an egg mass, it should be placed in a Ziploc bag with hand sanitizer and disposed of appropriately.

Lanternflies should be promptly killed and reported if found outside of quarantine areas.

The USDA instructs people to take a picture of the bug, egg mass, or infestation and include a reference, such as a coin or pen; then note the address, GPS coordinates and intersecting roads.

Email the information to spottedlanternfly@agriculture. ny.gov once you are finished.

If you’re going through a quarantine area, thoroughly examine all your things to check for any stowaways.

Fall 2022

SPORTS

18

Meet the captains who led the girls soccer champions to victory

By Madeline Cannon The Girls Varsity Soccer Team started their season with a 4-1 win against Middle College High School. Since then, the team has remained undefeated with a 7-0 record. The captains for this season are seniors Amelia Ferrell, Natalia Ramlogan, and Irene Skandalakis.

When asked about their experience with the team throughout high school, Irene (who is a producer for The Classic Critic) said, “I joined the team my sophomore year during quarantine, so our season took place throughout the Spring of 2021. I think that our team easily grew close since school was completely online and for some of us going to practices took up most of our time going out. Even with our first year back in person, the girls I met from the soccer team became and stayed my closest friends.”

Becoming a captain of a sports team comes with various responsibilities and expectations. Natalia said, “It feels fulfilling to be captain because I want to do right by my teammates. Being captain involves communication on the field, being a leader to my teammates, and setting a good example, but I also do things like help new players

learn the game, encourage them to do their best, and take care of other things like fundraising.”

With new players joining the team for this season, the new captains reflected on team bonding efforts at the start of their season. Amelia (a multimedia editor for The Classic) said, “We’ve gotten a lot of new players since last year, and it’s been super fun for the team dynamic. This year, we The girls soccer captains with their championship team have a lot of Friday games, so we’ll go out to eat after schoFreshman Sophia Lee said that the ol before our games, which has helped captains not only improved her soccer us become a lot closer.” experience, but also helped her tranNatalia also said, “This season, our sition to a new school. “The captains team really feels tight-knit. We have were very welcoming, gave me advigreat chemistry on and off the field, ce, and helped me meet new people,” even with players who are new to the said Sophia. team.”

Junior Jacqueline Lowenhaupt said, “I “The captains make the team like a think that the captains are doing a great family,” said Junior Ioanna Giannopo- job. They are very encouraging and giulou. ve good tips.

PHOTO: ANNA BOGONIS

Each of the new captains also reflected on their hopes for this season.

Amelia said, “I hope to go all the way, especially with our 12-0-1 record from last season. I think we can definitely win the Queens division, so I’m super excited to see how the playoffs play out.”

Irene said, “I am really happy with our team this season as I think we have been coming together more as we have played more games.”

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Many of these articles are excerpted. Read the full versions online at thhsclassic.com

SPORTS

19

The newly renovated Queens College track has been in use this school year after a hiatus during the pandemic.

As the fall sports season is coming to an end, the winter sports season has just begun. Over the past two weeks, the Girls Table Tennis, Girls Indoor Track, Boys Indoor Track, and Wrestling teams have begun competing in their respective divisons. Multiple players were asked about their experience being on the team and their goals for the future.

With the commencement of the winter season, the Girls Table Tennis team currently has a 1-1 record.

Jenney Huang, who won the first singles match 3-0 against John Bowne, commented on her experience playing table tennis for the team.

She said, “Practices and games are very fun and good experiences. We learn a lot from each other.” She expressed that her goals for this season “include self-improvement in terms of skill level, making playoffs, and having everyone improve.”

Meshva Patel from the first doubles match, said, “Coach Lau is active with the team with communication, support, practice, and teaching on skills to improve. He incorporates everyone into the community, making the start of our season really fun and inviting.”

As for the Boys Indoor Track team, one of the captains, Al-

ex Yauri, said, “Considering we got new runners this year, it was rough at first. Slowly, they’re adjusting to the new environment and preparing for the big meets.

Once they get the hang of it, I’m sure they’ll rank higher. As for previous runners, it is clear that we’ve improved throughout the summer and fall. I’m excited to see how our relay

“Indoor track just started, so we are transitioning from long distances to more explosive and short distances.

We have a lot of time to improve…but we are starting off very strong. I’m also very proud of the girls because many have been setting personal records.”

teams will go.”

Prior to the season just starting, Nathaniel White, a player on the track team, said, “Our teamwork has gotten better, there were no mistakes made with baton exchanges during the last meet. I think the team overall did well since we still have newer runners adjusting to how meets work.”

Senior Anusha Ramjanam, a captain of the Girls Indoor Track team, mentioned, “Indoor track just started, so we are transitioning from long distances to

PHOTO: RYAN YOUNG

Varsity Basketball teams both kick off season with a string of commanding wins

The winter games begin

By Jaica Derecho and Jenny Ren

more explosive and short distances.

“We have a lot of time to improve…but we are starting off very strong. I’m also very proud of the girls because many have been setting personal records.”

Janna Pasig, a first-year member of the team, discussed the camaraderie that the girls’ indoor track team had developed.

She said, “The teamwork chemistry is amazing because everyone is supportive and optimistic. In terms of practice, it’s enjoyable and requires so much time and energy, but it’s all worth it.”

The Wrestling team had their first match of the season on Tuesday.

They faced East Harlem Pride and lost 42-37.

Senior Justin Linzan, a captain of the wrestling team, praised the players, saying, “It’s a strong team with potential, and we’re having a lot of fun too, which is always good.”

After the loss against East Harlem Pride, Aradhna Da Silva, a player on the team, said, “So far, practices are going really well. They are super fun, and I’ve been learning so much. It’s a very hard sport, but the team has been practicing a lot, and there are a lot of great players.

So far we have only had one match, which we lost but not by much. I can see that the season will be really good because of our practices and attitudes towards this season.”

By Tawfiq Ahmed, Zakki winning ways against MasSuhu, and George Jong peth next Monday, a game The varsity basketball that will decide the first spot teams have kept up their in the division, leading to one winning streaks this week, of these teams losing their with the boys team main- undefeated record. taining an 8-0 record and The girls team has been the girls holding a 6-0 re- similarly triumphant. In adcord for the season. dition to their victory On December 15, over Queens HS the girls team of Teaching “We’ve been doing y e s t e r d a y, were domespecially well this inant over they have year.

I hope for more the winless won multiwins to come, and Queens ple games we should be getting H i g h against pretty far into this School of Springseason as long as Teaching 60field Garwe don’t let up.”

21 while the dens, Hillcrest, boys team cruised John Adams, and to victory against Benjamin N. Cardozo Queens Metropolitan High High School.

School, 66-47.

Sophomore Loise ArceThe boys team has had ga said, “Our season is multiple blowout victories starting off strong as we are throughout these past few currently 6-0 and at the top games, giving them a perfect of our division. The compestart to the season. Sopho- tition hasn’t really been chalmore Andrew Leonard, the lenging for us because most leading scorer of the past of us have played on a team game with 28 points, along before going to high school with 8 rebounds and 5 as- and or have played during sists, had this to say after the the off season. It’s very rawin: “The season has been re for this, especially in our going very well as we are un- division, so we’ve been dodefeated 8 games in. Play- ing especially well this year. I ing good teams is always a hope for more wins to come, challenge but we have done and we should be getting a great job on defense.” pretty far into this season Although undefeated, as long as we don’t let up THHS is competing against and always play hard.” The Maspeth High School for the girls team is currently holdnumber one seed, as they ing the first seed and are the both have an 8-0 record. The only undefeated team in their boys hope to sustain their division so far this season.

Fall 2022

20

SPORTS

Girls Soccer wins it all, Boys Badminton has a championship rematch, and Girls Volleyball makes it to the quarter finals

By Eva Jane Hannon

This fall season, Girls Varsity Volleyball, Boys Badminton, and Girls Varsity Soccer all finished at the top of their division. Boys Badminton made it to the City Championships for the second year in a row, Girls Volleyball made it to quarter finals, and Girls Varsity Soccer won the city championships at Randall’s Island last Friday.

Athletic director Lauren Caiaccia said, “I am very proud of the performance of all our fall teams. We have 12 competing programs in the fall semester. They started back in August and some teams [were] still going…in the middle of November.”

The captains of each of these three teams shared their thoughts on the season.

Senior Natalia Ramlogan, one of the captains of Girls Varsity Soccer, said, “The season went really well for our team. We were undefeated and we worked really hard to be first seed in the playoffs. One challenge we faced in the playoffs was playing teams we’ve never seen before. We didn’t know what to expect, but ultimately our team is full of strong players, so we were able to triumph over any contender in the playoffs.”

Prior to their championship win, Ms. Caiaccia was confident that they’d be victorious. “They have improved with each successive game and really look like they are poised to take home the championship,” she said. Junior Kelly Gildea, one of the captains of the volleyball team (and a Classic editor), said “The season’s been going really well. …We’ve gone to more tournaments and faced better competition, which has been a great challenge. But we’ve persevered and built such a strong

team culture these past few months.”

Ms. Caiaccia discussed the progress of the girls volleyball team. “[The] team got ranked fifth in the city this year. After coming off a season of rebuilding, Coach Hannif, who was a new coach to the girls varsity team, implemented an excellent coaching philosophy that worked well with our program and they are shining right now. So I look forward to seeing their progress.”

This past Wednesday, the girls varsity volleyball team lost their quarter final game against Metropolitan High School. Junior Gabby Renzi, a player on the team said, “This has been a really successful season and I’m proud of the team for making it so far. We’re going to miss our PHOTO COURTESY OF PSAL seniors so much, and I’m The Girls Varsity Soccer team won the championship game in November. proud of us for getting division “[It is] a tremendous accomplishment what they will achieve later.” champs. There are teams that are go- to be a city finalist,” Ms. Caiaccia said of Natalia believes that the outstanding ing to be better than you, but as long as the badminton team. “They were put in championship win of Girls Varsity Socyou play your best you should be proud a position to defend their city champi- cer results from the team’s overall hard of yourself.” onship title, which is tremendous.” work, dedication and solid team chemSenior Sean Zhou, captain of the The captains also shared the teams’ istry. She said, “We all supported each badminton team, said, “This season has secrets to excelling in the playoffs. Kel- other when someone got hurt, and we been intense but we’ve always entered ly said, “I think that our team made it to were able to pick each other back up. each game with such a strong passion the playoffs because of our strong team We wouldn’t have made it this far withand we’ve continued to excel. We defi- chemistry and our work ethic. We’re al- out our hard work and our positive atnitely started the season with some un- ways willing to try new things or come titudes.” certainties, many amazing players grad- in for another practice and our coach is “We are very proud of the effort and uated last year, opening up 4 of the 7 always there to help us out and lead us hard work and everything that goes instarter spots.” The badminton team through a tough game.” to getting those teams off the ground,” once again made it to the City ChamSean also praised his team’s chem- Ms. Caiaccia said, adding that none of pionship match, which they won last istry and unity as a key to their success. these achievements would be possible year against Stuyvesant High School.

“While we didn’t win the City Cham- “without our excellent coaching staff, This year featured a rematch between pion title this year,” he said, “we saw dedicated professionals, and our stuthe two teams, and this time, Stuyves- such a large level of growth with our dent-athletes who really make all of us ant took home the title. newer players, and I’m excited to see look good.”

Vax requirement lifted for high-risk activities vaccinated and still take safe precautions when necessary,” said Senior Aissatou Lam, who plays for both the In September, Eric Adams anvarsity volleyball and basketball teams. nounced students attending NYC “Everyone has to make their own public schools would no longer be rechoices,” Ms. Caiaccia said. “We have quired to have the COVID-19 vaccibeen dealing with COVID-19 since nation to participate in high-risk ac2020 and at this stage of the game, tivities such as sports and expeople have to make informed tracurricular music and thedecisions about [getting] the “Everyone ater programs. vaccine, no vaccine, boosthas has to Athletic director Lauren er shot, no booster shot. make their Caiaccia said she believes Everyone has to make their own choices,” that lifting the vaccine manown choice.”

Ms. Caiaccia date will “provide an opporThis change comes as othsaid. tunity for those individuals who er COVID-related changes had a reason or were unable to get were made at the start of the school the vaccine to have the same opporyear, including the lifting of a requiretunities to participate in sports as evment for all students to fill out health erybody else.” screening questionnaires as a conShe said that no parents or commudition for entering school buildings. nity members have approached her to However, THHS students continue express concerns regarding this decito regularly receive at-home COVID sion. “I feel comfortable with the vactests from the school to screen themcine-mandate [being] lifted as I am selves for the virus.

By Eva Jane Hannon, Emma Lee, and Ana Ramlagan

The Classic

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination rules have shifted. Though there has never been a full mandate for students to get vaccinated, there was one for certain activities.

PHOTO: ERICA LEE