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TIGER OCTOBER 16, 2019
NEWS
NEWS
SPHS plans to host anti-bias workshops STORY AMBER CHEN
SPHS will host anti-bias workshops for students in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League on Oct. 29 and 30 to combat prejudice on campus and foster an environment of tolerance. The workshops will recruit 50 students from different backgrounds to participate in anti-bias training. Workshops will help students examine their own biases and learn how to handle prejudice in the classroom. The goal is to combat politicized stubbornness and instead promote respectful and open communication. SPHS teachers went through the same training from the Anti-Defamation League during their professional development day on Oct. 7. History teacher Annalee Pearson is enthusiastic about the new program, especially for the opportunity for students to be involved in important discussions and learnings. “I think there is always a need for continued selfawareness, discussion, and dialogue [today],” Pearson said. The Anti-Defamation League was formed in 1913, aiming combat heightened attitudes of intolerance towards Jewish people. Today, the nonprofit organization continues to fight hate with education and law enforcement training. SPHS had previously contacted the organization after incidents of anti-Semitism, and when white supremacy posters were placed around campus last year. Principal Janet Anderson talked to the group about the possibility of implementing an anti-bias program and directly obtained the money needed from the South Pasadena Educational Foundation (SPEF). “Over time, I have seen that people, not just students and teachers, but in society are having trouble having discussions without just holding firm on their beliefs, and not allowing someone else to share their beliefs,” Anderson said. “I think that we can’t necessarily affect the whole country, but we can start small and start here, learning how to respect other people’s points of view.” Many students like freshman Kyra Nielsen plans to take part in these workshops. “In middle school, I did workshops similar to those in the various clubs that I was in, so hearing about more peer leadership training at the high school intrigued me,” Nielsen said. “I hope to gain more knowledge about others and their background, so that I will be more inclusive overall.”
ROSE COURT PRINCESS senior Cole Fox will represent South Pasadena on New Year’s Day.
Senior Cole Fox chosen for Tournament of Roses court STORY SOFIA ALVA PHOTO JAYDEN EDEN
interacting with local children. Fox hopes to inspire youth as a court princess.
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association announced SPHS senior Cole Fox as a princess on the 2020 Tournament of Roses Rose Court on Monday, Sept. 30. Fox and six other young women will make over 100 public appearances before representing South Pasadena in the New Year’s Day Parade.
“I am very passionate about the environment and animal cruelty. I am also a firm believer that children are the future,” Fox said. “In my time on the court I hope to teach kids a little about veganism and being kind as well.”
Fox began the interview process in early September, along with her close friend and fellow South Pas senior Mia Dawson. Also placing in the top 25, Dawson was a top contender in the selection process. Hundreds of students from over 40 schools competed alongside Fox and Dawson. The contestants were given short amounts of time to introduce themselves and answer questions before a panel of judges. Prior to the interview, Fox prepared answers with her mother for potential questions; she also used her background in musical theatre and speaking skills to make a lasting impression on the panel. “Because I do musical theatre, I’m used to presenting myself in front of people,” Fox said. “But this process allowed me to step outside my comfort zone because there was no script. It was scary going in, but all the girls there were very supportive and welcoming.” The final seven court members will participate in many public outreach programs, including meeting and
As a lifelong resident of South Pasadena, Fox is excited and grateful for the opportunity. “We haven’t had someone from South Pas on the court in a long time, so I know I have people rooting for me,” Fox said. “I really just want to shine a light on our community and showcase how much pride I have, having grown up here. This process has been so much fun so far and has taught me a lot about myself.” Fox will continue to make public appearances before the coronation ceremony and court introduction on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at the Pasadena Playhouse.
I really just want to shine a light on our community and showcase how much pride I have, having grown up here... We haven’t had someone from South Pas on the court in a long time, so I know I have people rooting for me.”
Friends and coworkers celebrate life of SPMS teacher Paula Warner Speakers invited Warner’s loved ones to hear stories of her life and honor her legacy STORY SOFIA ALVA & ELLIE CAMPBELL PHOTO OSCAR WALSH Friends and family gathered at the Pasadena Shakespeare Club on Saturday, Oct. 5, to celebrate the life of retired South Pasadena Middle School teacher Paula Warner. Warner, who taught at SPMS for 30 years, passed away in July following a prolonged battle with cancer. Event attendees listened to speakers who shared their uplifting stories about Warner. Retired SPMS drama teacher Marion Tompkins and another one of Warner’s close friends Jean Martin organized the event and its courtyard reception. Tompkins worked alongside Warner during her time at SPMS. Tompkins and Warner collaborated on various drama and Tigerette events. As one of the main speakers for the event, Tompkins shared many fond memories she had with Warner.
FLOWERS AND PHOTOS adorned the venue as attendees celebrated and remembered the life of retired SPMS teacher Paula Warner.
philanthropic, social and cultural organization. Members remembered Warner for her elaborate dances she often performed in the club. The former SPMS teacher involved herself heavily in the planning and organization of school events during her tenure. She especially enjoyed making posters, programs, flyers and, painting sets for school productions. Warner dedicated much of her time at SPMS as the Tigerettes team coach; she always stayed to ensure that every member was picked up before heading home herself. SPHS sophomore and former two year member of the Tigerettes Ellie Lupien remembers Warner for her enthusiasm and ability to make everyone on the team feel accepted and heard. “Ms. Warner made everyone feel [like a] part of the team and she was always enthusiastic about [coaching] the Tigerettes,” Lupien said.
“She always wanted to do stuff for people. She was very generous with her time and a wonderful woman. She did a lot for the school and will be missed,” Tompkins said.
Former Tigerette and sophomore Yeh Ju Lee remembers Warner not just as her coach, but also as lasting positive influence in her life.
Warner expressed her passion for dancing and theatre with her friends in the Shakespeare Club, a
“She was a dependable teacher and coach and she influenced me to be the person I am today,” Lee said.