Do the math | 2
Pronouns, please | 4-5
Hours of homework just don’t add up
Why colleges and employers are encouraging people to share
Coffee with a cause | 6 Local shop brews coffee and inclusivity
Vanguard College Preparatory School, 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr., Waco, Texas 76710
April 2022, Volume 49, Issue 5
The Vanguard Review A VCPS Publication
Worries of war
Reacting to horror of Putin’s invasion, students seek answers to what war could mean for their generation Brooke Jolliff ‘22 senior reporter
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n late January, the state of our world and a possible war started off as a bunch of rumors circling all over social media. However, just a few weeks later it became a tragic reality as Russian forces began invading the country of Ukraine. Now, bombs are destroying cities and innocent civilians are fleeing to neighboring countries with their babies and only what can fit inside a rolling suitcase. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has taken to social media, begging for NATO to enforce a no-fly zone and send more support — and the world waits to see how the United States will respond. Vikings, along with young people all over the world, are now facing another major event and the uncertainty that it brings over the current events going on in the world. On top of a global pandemic, a war has made the world an even scarier place. Students are concerned for the future of their country as well as others. So what exactly does this mean for our future? What rumors are actually true? How will the U.S. react to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s increasing threat to a sovereign nation? Will the invasion of Ukraine start WWIII? Could there be a draft that would send young people into battle? “The thought of war is really scary. It’s kind of the same thing as when the virus first started. It seemed so far away and like it could never happen to us, but then it ended up coming here and
affecting us all,” said freshman Zara Diaz. “Right now in World History, I’m learning about all these wars around the world and how many people died. It used to seem like that could never happen, but now it seems like a possibility. It would be really scary to go to war, especially because of the modern world we live in and all the new technology. A war could be even worse than back then.” More than 40 percent of the student body is concerned about the possible U.S. involvement, according to a Feb. 2022 VR student poll. And 17.5 percent of students think it is right for the U.S. to defend Ukraine, while 25.5 percent think that it is not the country’s place to do so. Many still are not sure what to think. President Joe Biden has come under scrutiny for his handling of the U.S.’s support of Ukraine. On one hand, not getting involved makes Russia think they can get away with their invasion. On the other hand, if the U.S. gets directly involved in the conflict, it could start a world war. “I think Biden is a weak leader,” junior Erin Padgett said. “And in these world situations, we need a stronger leader.” Sophomore Mary Campbell said leaders should learn from what happened in history. “I am worried because Biden isn’t doing much,” Campbell said. “Russia may go beyond Ukraine, especially because something similar happened before World War II. The allied nations
— Britain especially — agreed to give Hitler some of the land that he demanded, in hopes of keeping the peace. But they were somehow surprised when he continued to invade surrounding areas. It might be a long shot, but I am worried that if America doesn’t stand up to Putin as an actual threat, then he may assume that the U.S. is not prepared to follow through on their threats.” Luke Williams, sophomore, agreed. “I really hope that the people in Ukraine will be okay,” Williams said. “I have an uncle in Poland, and that is bordering Ukraine. So, I am a little scared that Russia might not stop at Ukraine and will go on to Poland.” Others are cautiously optimistic and recognize that Biden is trying to unite the world. “I’m definitely a little worried, especially for the innocent lives in Ukraine,” freshman Danae Simmons said. “Also, this shows how one country can impose its force on another, and this could spiral out of control. However, I do think Biden will make a move, and he has already made several. One thing that he has done well is rallying our allies, which can become extremely helpful in the
future.” Watching the horrific images of the aftermath of air raids, Ukranians fleeing their homes, and watching homes and buildings being destroyed takes its toll on young people in the U.S. who must sit by and cannot do a lot to help. But, they naturally have fears of their own about war — and social media plays a big part in that. “There have been things on TikTok for a long-
“The thought of war is really scary. It’s kind of the same thing as when the virus first started. It seemed so far away and like it could never happen to us, but then it ended up coming here and affecting us all.” — Zara Diaz, freshman time that joke about a possible WWIII,” senior Sage Suchecki said. “Social media often makes jokes about serious topics and that makes people freak out when they may not even have all the facts.” So, it’s important to understand what is going on in the region — and where the U.S. has sent troops or might send them in the future. “First, President Biden hasn’t sent any troops to Ukraine and probably never will,” said Brad Livingstone, who teaches History of WWII and Continued on page 8 also
Hold the phone
Students question fairness and relevancy of the school phone policy Hope Hamblin ‘25 reporter
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cardboard box labeled “PHONES” became a daunting sight for many students one day in late January as associate head of school Zach Seifert used it to collect cell phones and other devices he saw them using during the school day — for reasons that did not relate to school work. That left some students perplexed and even shocked. Though an official cell phone policy has been around for around at least five years, teachers are now putting their foot down and enforcing disciplinary action for anyone violating the rule. The rule set in the student handbook states that “all high school students (9-12 graders) will be required to have their phone off and away from visibility (ex: left in car, in backpacks, classroom designated container, lockers) during the school day.” Middle school students are allowed no access to their phones at all and are required to turn them in to science teacher Patty Flowers before 8 a.m. every morning. More than 81 percent of students believe that the phone policy is unreasonable, according to the February VR student poll, and 87.8 percent of students say the phone policy needs to be changed. “I do not consider our phone policy to be strict,” Borg said. “The effort is to try and balance some reasonable flexibility and freedom with
phones that are also age appropriate.” The main complaint students have about the phone policy is not having the freedom to use their own devices in their free time when they are not in class or taking care of academic responsibilities. “I think it is fair for the school to not allow us on our phones during classes so we can focus on our schoolwork,” freshman Townlin Starr said. “However, I think we should be allowed to check them during lunch or break. I don’t think it’s healthy to be staring at a screen throughout the whole school day, but I don’t disagree with being on it every once in a while if you are not in class.” But head of school Bill Borg thinks differently. “There is no free time at school,” Borg said. “Students are under our jurisdiction and responsibility from the time the bell rings in the morning until it rings at the end of the day.” Borg said phones and social media are destroying today’s kids and he does not plan to stand by and watch it happen. “Statistically, I can’t find anything out there that gives any solid validation to the positives of what phones are doing to the youth,” Borg said. “Everything I read is negative. There are many things that are detrimental to kids growing up — and phones aren’t helping. They are contributing to
it.” Borg said. The offenses for disobeying the rule include confiscation of the device, charging a fee to get it back and having to have a parent/guardian pick it up. Students who violate the cell phone policy and get caught will face the following A student uses her phone during her study mod to communicate with her mom about what time she is bringing lunch. punishment: For the first ofPhoto by Hope Hamblin/ VR staff fense, the device must be turned have policies,” he said. “It would be no different into the office until 3:20 p.m. On the second of- than if you go to work and the work environment fense, it must be turned into office for the three fol- says ‘no cell phones allowed during the working lowing days before 7:40 am and picked up at 3:30 hours.’ There may be a college professor who says p.m. By the third offense, the device must be turned ‘I do not allow cell phones in my classroom and if into the office for the next 10 days before 7:40 a.m. I see or hear it, you get a 0.’ If the law firm you go and picked up at 3:30 p.m. And after the fourth of- to work for, if you get a law degree, says they wear fense, the student will turn in their phone for four coats and ties, you’re going to wear a coat and tie or weeks and have a meeting with the head of school. they’re going to tell you to get another job. Some“I’m not out to get your phones,” Borg said. “I times there are going to be boundaries that are set don’t want them around me or to be responsible for — and you may not like them. That’s OK — you keeping them, to be honest.” can learn to live with them.” Borg said kids also need to realize that there “When people tell me not to do something it will always be policies and procedures — and lev- makes me want to do it more,” said freshman Ella els of expectations — they may not agree with or McCallie. like. “This is a school like a business and businesses
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The Vanguard Review April 5, 2022
The double standard of war
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The U.S. has bombed innocent civilians in the Since wars be- in Ukraine brought tears to my eyes, as innocent cigin in the minds vilians have their humanity reduced for expedient Middle East, exploited their resources and denied of men, it is in political power. However, war and the presence of asylum to innocent civilians. Today, millions of the minds of men that totalitarian leaders have always played a part in my innocent lives have been lost with no real societal the defenses of peace life. From my uncle being locked up and starved by progress happening: dictators have continuously must be constructed.” Syrian President Bashar Assad for voicing opinions been taking control of these countries. What makes That is what is declared against the dictatorship, to seeing the buildings I this worse is private military contractors, namely in the preamble of used to roam around during the summers as a child Blackwater PMC, profit from military intervention Isaac Saadi ‘22 the Constitution of being bombed by the U.S. military’s insufficient in the region. Where is the justice the U.S. proclaims editor-in-chief UNESCO. No coun- counter-terrorism efforts that end up hurting inno- to bring to the nation when they sign the PMCs off? But yet again, Western media outlets fail to recogtry can afford a war; cent civilians the most. the true harm and magnitude of milevery country can afford to work in peace. Underdeveloped nations have felt the true nize itary involvement in the region because Through the trials, tribulations and political gridlock from the U.S.’s government, underde- brunt of war as European countries that are Middle Easterners are characterized as veloped nations have felt the true brunt of war as deemed as “civilized” for never experiencing the “others” who “fuel” Western counEuropean countries that are deemed as “civilized” the horrors of imperialism gain the sympathy tries by the oil and profits they provide through U.S. imperial tactics. from Western media outlets for never experiencWhile my country is just one examing the horrors of imperialism gain the sympathy and attention of the world stage. I still worry about my family in Syria today. ple, many children of immigrants in the U.S. expeand attention of the world stage. Meanwhile, predominantly non-Euro-centered countries — like my My adolescence has always carried anxiety about rience similar plights. Just now, it has aggravated the future of my home country, which I admire so me how sympathy is only gained for countries in home country of Syria — are kicked to the curb. Now is the time to reflect on the widely different deeply, as a never-ending war has raged on for near- Europe, yet when the U.S. destroys innocent lives reactions to conflict depending on who’s involved ly a decade. Nevertheless, the U.S. has had military in the Middle East, no remorse is felt and for what? and their root cause: the unrelenting belligerence and involvement in the name of “eradicating” terrorists The differences in our shared humanity? from the region for nearly a decade and what has expansionism inherent to the U.S. imperial project. Watching CNN coverage on hospital bombings happened since then?
Do the math: Hours of homework don’t add up
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etween the eight hours spent at school, eight hours sleeping, two to three hours of outside activities, two hours of homework, one hour for dinner, plus about Hope Hamblin ‘25 one hour getting ready in the mornings and at reporter night (you know, brushing your teeth, showering, cleaning our rooms and anything else) and 30 minutes traveling to and from all the places we need to be — students are left with 30 minutes out of the 24 hours we have in a day. That 30 minutes is all we have left to talk to family, be on our phones, decompress from school and do anything fun and extra we want. There simply are not enough hours in the day to achieve all we are expected to do when we are assigned an excessive amount of homework. Every student knows the three Rs by which every student is to abide: rigor, respect and responsibility. But are students expected to do more than we are capable of handling? Vanguard takes pride in the amount of extracurriculars offered between sports, clubs and electives. Each activity a student chooses to participate in takes up some of their time, and there is no limit to the amount you can participate in. The only restric-
tion is scheduling. having a future of nothing but work and disregardWe also have four core classes required of every ing having a social life. Having time to spend with grade here, plus two years of a language which can friends and family is important. make five academic classes and adding possible AP “Social deprivation in adolescence might have classes taken as an elective or adding another aca- far-reaching consequences,” according to the U.S. demic class as an elective such as World War II or National Library of Medicine with the National InVietnam War. stitutes of Health in a study on the effects of social More than 70 percent of students say they spend deprivation on adolescent development and mental over one hour each night on school work after health. school hours No one have ended, We are setting ourselves up for having a future wants to come according to of nothing but work and disregarding having a home from eight the VR Feb. hours of school, social life. Having time to spend with friends 2022 student just to start again poll. And and family is important. and do another 47.5 percent of those spend over two hours each couple hours of school work. We have extremely night on homework. Seventy percent of students say little time to socialize and we cannot socialize with they believe we are assigned too much work. our friends from other schools during the day due Sports practices take up several hours each to having a restriction on our phones and not being night. Students are recommended to get eight hours allowed to use them. of sleep each night. Realistically, we need about an We are put under too much stress and have too hour to settle down when getting home, so we have high of expectations set and it is taking a toll on time to decompress from the day, socialize with many of us. Whether it’s mentally, physically or acfamily, grab a quick snack and chill out before start- ademically, it’s affecting us. When we are not mening homework. An adolescent’s life should not be tally able to perform at our best, your grades can dominated solely by academics. suffer. This prevents us from achieving the highest Yes, academics are important. But at the same scores and grades we can, which can do the oppotime, we are setting the tone as to how our adult site of what our school stands for and maybe even lives are going to go. We are setting ourselves up for prevent us from getting into higher level colleges.
Snack attack: VCPS needs vending machines
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ave you ever missed breakfast and wished you had a snack to give you a quick boost before school starts? Do you get hungry Paiton Jones ‘26 when heading to after school practice and need guest columnist some energy to power up? Since the Bostick Café isn’t open during those times, it would be great if our school had a vending machine where we could grab what we need and go at any time of the day. During break we are able to get food, but time is very limited and it’s hard to think ahead or know if you might be hungry later in the day. With vending
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The editorial board, comprised of newspaper staff members, determines by consensus the content of the paper. The Vanguard Review staff has elected to use this editorial policy to govern the activity of the paper throughout the 2021-2022 school year. We reserve the right to refuse any content. No offensive material will be permitted to print, and submissions may be edited for grammatical purposes.
machines, you are able to get snacks at any time. Students can choose what they want in vending machines without waiting for Bostick Café to open or driving to other locations for their food. A lot of times, students end up Doordashing food after school and that gets very expensive. When it comes to food choices, students should be able to pick what they want when they want it, without having to go to a lot of trouble or expense. Vending machines would also be good for students who don’t like the lunch options at our school. Having this kind of access makes it easy to eat whenever students are hungry. It could also be beneficial for those who work at the school. If they forgot to order or bring their lunch, they may be able to choose an option from the vending machine. Vending machines ensure that no one goes hungry
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between meals. People may say that school vending machines only offer junk food, but schools can work with the vendor and control what goes inside. There doesn’t just have to be chips, soda and candy. There could be other healthy things, like protein bars, fruit drinks or water. So the food options just won’t be limited to junk or other unhealthy foods. It also gives people other eating options a chance to choose something from the machines. Vending machines would be a good investment for the school because both students and staff can benefit from them. The school administration can earn profit from them, and it gives people an opportunity to have something to eat during or after school hours.
Things to
Consider April 2022 poll results are in! Do you think the school phone policy needs to be updated or changed in any way? Yes 87.9% No 12.1% With the recent Russian advancement on Ukraine, are you concerned the United States might get involved in a war there? Yes 42.4% No 17.3% I don’t know 40.3% Do you think acknowledgment of peoples’ preferred pronouns helps promote diversity and inclusion? Yes 61.1% No 38.9% How many hours do you spend on homework on an average night? 30 minutes or less 6.4% 30 minutes - 1 hour 16.3% More than 1 hour 29.8% More than 2 hours 47.5% What is the No. 1 way an athlete can show commitment to a sport? Attendance at practices and games 25.6% The attitude they bring to the team 13.7% The effort they put into practices and games 60.7% Is it fair (to teammates/coach) to commit to two sports (in the same season) when you only have time for one? This includes cheer, drums, flags, etc. Yes 40.7% No 59.3% Have you ever been to the new downtown coffee house Bitty & Beau’s? Yes 8.3% No 91.7% The above results reflect the VCPS student body of 243 students. Polls were distributed electronically through Google Forms. Number of responses: 144
The Vanguard Review Volume 49, Issue 5, April 5, 2022 The Vanguard College Preparatory School Student Newspaper 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr., Waco, Texas 76710 vanguard_review@vanguard.org (254) 772-8111
Staff
Isaac Saadi editor-in-chief Delaney Trepinski assistant editor Brooke Jolliff senior reporter Landri Wheeler reporter & business manager Hope Hamblin reporter & business manager Gretchen Eichenberg adviser
Bylines Bylines will be determined based on the contributions from each writer or individual. Contact the staff for the full policy.
Distribution and Printing Process
The Vanguard Review prints 300 copies of each issue. The paper is made available to students and faculty at several locations across campus. The paper is sent through the mail to individuals, including parents and alumni, on the official VCPS mailing list. It is also available online.
Mission Statement It is our mission to be the voice of the students of Vanguard College Preparatory School. We will endeavor in our roles as journalists to create a paper that students can read to be educated and informed.
Demographics Vanguard College Preparatory School has a total population of 279: 243 students and 36 faculty members.
people
The Vanguard Review April 5, 2022
Student Spotlight:
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Teacher Spotlight:
Grade 10
Aline Leslie
Sebastian Reyna
Spectacular Sebastian Intelligent Innovative Curious Landri Wheeler ‘24 reporter
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ebastian Reyna, junior, dreams of being an aeronautical and aerospace physics engineer. “I wish to be [an] aeronautical and aerospace physics engineer with the possibility of expanding a bit,” Reyna said. “I have wanted a career along these lines since the age of seven. For the longest time, I have been drawn to some form of engineering. I have always had a very creative, yet also a very adept brain at problem solving and I want to put it to use toward something I find enjoyable.” Reyna has wide ambitions for his future and he said his inspiration comes from the famous Nicola Tesla. “He fought against oppressive big industry and government in the sense that he had to fight for everything he had because it was him versus the wider world which is something I will have to do,” Reyna said. “He was inspired by his own failures and I wish to take that from him as to never fear the thought of failure in my career because it is almost entirely inevitable.” He said that he would like to use his degree to head design and development engineer for deep space travel. “I would like to be the head design and development engineer for deep space and intergalactic travel systems that travel close to the speed of light,” Reyna said. “I am also hoping to be the head design and development engineer for military special forces flight systems, new advanced fighter jets, and even possibly a special forces omni-directional suit used for special reconnaissance.” Reyna said that he would like to be a part of
Science teacher and counselor Aline Leslie will be offering a Psychology course for students next year. Delaney Trepinski/ VR staff
Delaney Trepinski ‘23 assistant editor
With a goal of being an aeronautical engineer, sophomore Sebastian Reyna said he hopes to one day work in the design and development phase of the deep space travel industry. Photo by Landri Wheeler / VR staff
space exploration and colonization and believes that humanity is less than 50 years away from civilian space travel. “I fully wish to go to space myself,” Reyna said. “I would like to take the opportunity to pave a road, not possibly in my time but for future generations, to be able to do planetary terraformation allowing for entire planets to be utilized for colonization. I fully believe that we are less than 50 years from civilian space travel.” Another thing that interests Reyna is the “Harry Potter” book series. “Harry Potter has such a large canon universe,” Reyna said. “It’s a story that matures with the readers and is in depth with the feeling we all feel instead of being entirely foreign to many because of the typical ‘hero’ we expect from modern novels.” Reyna also said that he enjoys listening to music, specifically alternative rock. “I like a lot of alternative rock, a majority of them have a nice beat and a solid feel I guess,” Reyna said. “Some of the artists I listen to are The Living Tombstone, Imagine Dragons, Shinedown, AWOLNATION and plenty others but those are my top ones.” Reyna said he likes to work with his hands and spend time playing with his family in his free time. “I find that working with my hands, for example hobbies like paracord creations or DIY crafts, spark my interest immensely,” Reyna said. “I also enjoy just playing board games with my family and having a good time.” Reyna also enjoys the journey of trying dif-
ferent cuisines with and that if given the option he would travel to Italy to explore that and the endless history of that region of the world. “I would go to Italy because I am a huge food lover,” Reyna said. “ Italy is close enough to other countries that I could explore the general region. There is lots of great historical significance in the northern part, specifically,” Reyna said. Reyna is a military ‘brat,’ which means he is the child of parents who have served in the U.S. military. “I am a military brat of three parents, therefore I have been exposed to many cultural diversities through regular contact of military personnel around me throughout my life,” Reyna said. With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Reyna said he worries that his family may be called to serve again. “I worry that some of my family will be pulled back in, even though they’ve done their duty,” he said. “I don’t want to see what happened in Afghanistan happen again because we lost a lot of friends and family there and we don’t want it to be a fruitless effort.” And he is encouraged to see the Ukranians fight back. “It’s good that the people of Ukraine are fighting for themselves,” he said. “It says a lot about them and their culture. It’s good to see that they are people willing to fight for themselves, rather than expecting the military to take care of it for them.”
VR: What is your favorite part of working at Vanguard? AL: I love the fact that each of our students can be treated as an individual, and that the unique aspects of each student can be discovered and nurtured. VR: What is a fun fact about you that you want the students to know? AL: Fun fact (probably the most surprising fact, anyway!).... I love Snoop Dogg! VR: How long have you been working at Vanguard? AL: This is my 32nd year here at Vanguard. VR: As a counselor and future psychology teacher, what do you recommend for a student who feels overwhelmed with balancing school and life? AL: Any student or adult who is feeling overwhelmed needs to STOP … find a quiet place … breathe … and regroup. VR: What about psychology is most important to you? AL: A particular passion of mine is educating people about the fact that mental health issues are NOT signs of weakness or laziness. They’re often due to imbalances in the brain physiology. VR: What is your goal by instituting this class at our school? AL: I think everyone should take a psychology class sometime during their academic career. Studying different personality types helps us get a better understanding of why people behave the way they do, and gives us a lot of insight on cooperating with different people.
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What’s the big deal about pronouns? Why everyone from college recruiters to employers to social media platforms are encouraging people to share By Isaac Saadi, editor-in-chief
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efore an official tour at Boston University, prospective student Thaddeus Denton, junior, said he was was elated to see his info session guide share her pronouns with the group before talking about the university. Applicants to Amherst College the past two years were greeted with an email asking them, among other things, whether or not they have had a pronoun change. And starting this year, students filling out the Common Application were asked what name and pronouns they prefer, with that information being sent to hundreds of colleges ready to welcome students who are identified by the names and pronouns they choose, in addition to their legal names and genders assigned at birth. The part of speech that substitutes for proper nouns has trickled its way to the center of discourse around gender expression, as colleges, businesses and social media platforms have begun to encourage the practice of sharing individual’s pronouns as part of diversity, inclusion and gender visibility initiatives. “I love that our society is starting to take individuals’ visibility seriously,” Lydia Wollard, sophomore, said. “Many people need to share their pronouns because they want others to call them by the pronouns they personally identify with. Some don’t feel like they need to, which is totally fine. It makes me so happy that our society is changing at such a fast pace right in front of our eyes.” Sharing pronouns is now a part of everyday life for many of today’s students and working professionals, as a growing number of Gen Zers are including their pronouns in everything from email signatures to nametags to Instagram profiles. Seventh grader Atlas Sowders said increasing efforts to list pronouns helps to eliminate misgendering: the process in which one does not correctly — intentionally or accidentally — address the pronouns of a person that reflects the gender with which they identify. “I think it is giving more visibility because a lot of people just assume pronouns,” Sowders said. “If, on Instagram, the first thing you
see next to someone’s name is [their] pronouns, it’s giving that individual visibility. Like, ‘I look like I use she/her pronouns but I don’t.’ People not assuming pronouns gives other people visibility and it shows people what their pronouns are without having to assume it first.” Wollard agreed. “I always try my best to know what pronouns to use with people because it is a very important part of identity to many people and it’s my job as a person to keep that in consideration,” she said. “I have misgendered people before. Eeverybody does at some point. But what matters is that I learn from it, apologize and ask what pronouns somebody may prefer. It’s not an inconvenience you have to get past. It’s part of being a good human.” Sage Suchecki, senior, describes the experience of listing out pronouns in the workplace. “At work, I have my name and pronouns listed, so when people look at the schedule they will know,” Suchecki said. “It makes me feel happy that people care enough about me to respect me by using “they/ them” pronouns.” It is important to understand what a pronoun fundamentally is and how personal pronoun use has evolved as gender expression becomes more accepted in society.
A pronoun allows a writer or speaker to refer to something without continually naming it and having a sentence that sounds redundant or awkward, Lieber said. Typically, a woman would have been referred to as she, while a man would have been referred to as he. “In that sense, personal pronouns — the kinds we use most frequently — are generally used when talking about someone or something, rather than directly to them, where we would use the second person pronoun,” Lieber said. As culture has changed though, there has emerged a set of gender-neutral pronouns, which allows someone to be referred to as neither a male or female. This is in response to a society that is increasingly more accepting — and in many ways, demanding — that gender expression is a personal choice. For Sowders, that does not include being referred to by one gender or another. “For me, gender expression is a way of showing who you are to the world,” Sowders said. In 2019, Merriam-Webster dictionary declared the non-binary pronoun “they” as the word of the year, marking a paradigm shift in how the venerable pronoun is used and sending a strong signal that the singular “they” is acceptable. While “they” is traditionally considered a plural pronoun, more than 60 percent of students said they believe “they” and “them” can be used as a singular pronoun, according to a Feb. 2022 VR student poll. “Using they or them as a singular pronoun is definitely valid,” Courtney Wiethorn, senior, said. Some people argue that using “they” and “them” as a singular pronoun is not traditionally grammatically correct. However, senior Avery Haynes said that does not matter in the modern age. “It is grammatically correct today,” she said. “To say it’s not grammatically correct is not a val“Pronouns are simply replacements for nouns,” Sarah Lieber, En- id reason to tell people they cannot use the terms as singular.” glish teacher, said. “In fact, English has seven different types of proIn fact, most modern grammarians agree with the use of “they” as nouns, some with subcategories, because there are so many different a singular pronoun, alongside indefinite pronouns, as grammatically ways that pronouns can be used.” correct according to the Associated Press.
“Many people need to share their pronouns because they want others to call them by the pronouns they personally indentify with. Some don’t feel like they need to, which is totally f ine.” - Lydia Wollard, sophomore
5 She H
s r e /H
er He
What are pronouns?
em h T s r i e h T r i e Th
rs
r e H
(he/him)
) m e She/H h T / y e er h T ( He/H her/hers r e im h / e h Sh S (Their/Theirs e ) they/them He
rs Him/ His He him
What are your preffered pronouns?
is They Them H im
He H (T
hey/th
em)
Sowders describes how using “they” or “them” in the singular sense is a way to refer to someone you don’t know very well. “I personally use they/them pronouns for anybody I don’t know the pronouns of, just in case they might not identify as the gender they appear,” Sowders said. This is nothing new. Throughout the history of the English language, “they” has been used as a singular pronoun. Geoffrey Chaucer, author of “The Canterbury Tales,” used “they” in reference to the singular “whoso” (meaning, whatever person) in the “Prologue of the Pardoner’s Tale” ( 1380s): “And whoso fyndeth hym out of swich
with her, according to the VR student poll. “I do not think people should be able to change their pronouns,” Reese said. “People are born of a specific gender at birth, which can’t change. Whether you think you are of a different gender, what you are born as is who you are.” And she said she doesn’t understand why informing people of her gender is a practice that is becoming more prevalent in education and business. “I do not believe pronouns should be made an issue in society,” she said, “Practically, it makes a lot of things more complicated in the
About three-in-ten adults ages 18 to 29 personally know someone who goes by these types of pronouns. And therefore, Reese said if someone were to tell her their pronouns were something other than what she observed, she would call them by that pronoun if it came up. “I would do my best to respect their wishes,” she said. Lieber said that’s what sharing one’s pronouns is all about. “The emphasis on all people listing their pronouns comes from the intent of inclusivity,” Lieber said. “If everyone lists personal pronouns, in an email signature, for example, then it becomes second
blame, / They wol come up and offre a Goddés name.” Translation: “And whoso findeth him out of such blame, / They will come up and offer in God’s name.” Fast forward to 2017: The Associated Press and the Chicago Manual of Style announced a policy change on “they,” both allowing the use of “they” in reference to singular antecedents if another word would sound awkward. Now “ze,” “hir,” “xe,” have been added to the list of gender-neutral pronouns that can be used to refer to anyone in conversation or in writing. These words were created for people who may be struggling with their identity or who simply want to avoid gender bias in school, at work or in their everyday lives. These words have some people confused. Annabelle Reese, sophomore, believes a persons’ pronouns should match the gender they were assigned at birth. And more than 41 percent of students agree
workforce, and there are so many that people are coming up with every day. That it is too complex for people to keep up with.” Proclaiming your pronouns should be deemed a personal matter to make one’s own self feel more comfortable, Erin Padgett, junior, said. “Making a big deal about it almost undermines the choice someone is making to do that,” Padgett said. “If you’re going to change your pronouns, do it for yourself and not for others.” Maheen Shah, junior, said the attention to pronoun use is new to her. “I didn’t even realize this was a thing until recently,” Shah said. “That’s just not something that is really talked about in my religion. But I’m accepting of what anyone wants to be called.” But, it is a thing. Roughly three-quarters of Americans ages 18 to 29 say they have heard a little or a lot about people preferring nonbinary pronouns, according to a recent study by Pew Research Center.
nature to check those pronouns before referencing them.” More than 61 percent of students said they think the acknowledgment of someones’ preferred pronouns promotes inclusion. “Listing out pronouns can be helpful in the sense that it communicates to others how someone would like to be referenced, rather than leaving it up to that person to correct someone later,” Lieber said. “It can also avoid the awkwardness or redundancy of referring to someone only by name in order to avoid using personal pronouns at all.” No matter what someone thinks of the singular “they,” it’s not going anywhere. In a world where concepts and language are changing rapidly, freshman Libby Attas said she will use someone’s preferred pronouns. “We don’t really need to understand why someone wants to be referred to as they or them,” Attas said. “We just need to respect it.”
As culture has changed, there has emerged a set of gender-neutral pronouns that allows someone to be referred to as neither male or female.
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The Vanguard Review April 5, 2022
Coffee with a cause
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Bitty & Beau’s offers great drinks, a cool place to study and is changing the way people see and value others
Clockwise from top: Serving up a vanilla latte, Olivia Serr, 21, said her job at Bitty & Beau’s makes her feel proud. A student walks into Bitty & Beaus to grab a drink and do school work. Workers buzz around the coffee machines and cash register to fulfill orders. Photos by Hope Hamblin / VR and Bifrost staff
By Hope Hamblin
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itty & Beau’s Coffee, located at 110 Franklin Ave, might seem like a normal coffee shop when you walk through the door: Warm atmosphere. People chatting. And, of course, the aroma of coffee brewing. But there is even more value to visiting Bitty & Beau’s for your next cup. As their website states “It is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee - it’s an experience.” That’s because the new-to-town café employs people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and might not have the same opportunities for employment as the average person. “It’s very valuable for our community to love
way people value, accept, include, love, respect and see other people. “I think some people might find it awkward to be around people who aren’t like them, but it simply takes a single conversation to realize nobody is that different from you,” Tillinghast said. “Bitty & Beau’s breaks down some of those walls for many people, I think.” The story starts with Amy and Ben Wright, the parents of four children — Lillie, Emma Grace, Beau and Bitty. Lillie was born with autism, and Bitty and Beau were born with Down syndrome. They became aware of the fact that 80 percent
ration to name the franchise after two of their children. Now there are 23 locations across 12 states, five of which are in Texas. Olivia Serr, 21, works at Bitty & Beau’s of Waco. She is the sister of junior Sophia Serr — and Olivia has intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has worked at the coffee shop since they opened in November 2021. She said she loves her job. “My job makes me feel very confident and proud,” Serr said. “It is a very popular place and sometimes very crowded. At first, that was hard but it’s not now. My favorite thing is making the drinks.” With a very diverse group of individuals working and coming in as customers, students reported feeling safe and accepted. Senior Courtney Wiethorn has visited Bitty & Beau’s, she said. She said the service was fast and she received her drink in no time. — AC Tillinghast, junior “Everyone is kind to each other and accepting of each othof people with mental or physical disabilities are er’s differences,” Wiethorn said. unemployed, according to a statistic by the Unit“Despite being different, the employees proved ed Nations Department of Economic and Social themselves to be more than capable of their jobs,” Affairs. So, the Wrights opened the first Bitty & Tillinghast said. Beau’s coffee shop in Wilmington, N.C. with inspi“The employees are enthusiastic about their
“It is very valuable for our community to love and understand people with disabilities. A place like Bitty & Beau’s is not only good for the employees, but also the community and society as a whole.” and understand people with disabilities,” sophomore AC Tillinghast said. “A place like Bitty and & Beau’s is good for not only the employees, but also the community and society as a whole.” The company’s motto is all about changing the
work, kind, fun, accommodating, and just overall very joyful in their jobs,” Tillinghast said. “. Every time I’ve been, I was greeted, my order made exactly how I wanted it and quickly, and the coffee was very good.” Not only do the employees set the business apart, but so does the environment created for customers. “I went there to do calculus homework one day and it was a great study environment,” Weithorn said. “It would also be a great place to hang out with friends as there is music playing and it is a very fun environment.” Tillingshast agreed. “There are power plugs and plenty of places to sit,” she said. “I’ve been with friends as well. It’s not so deafeningly quiet that you feel like you can’t talk, so it’s also a perfect place to hang out with friends. If it’s warm out there’s outside seating too.” With passionate employees and accepting customers, Bitty and Beau’s is a solid business to support the next time you are craving a treat. Customers can get a cup of coffee while engaging with others in the community who may be different than them.
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sports
The Vanguard Review April 5, 2022
Playing with a promise
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Commitment an important aspect for the success of any team Landri Wheeler ‘24 reporter
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howing up. Playing to the best of your ability. Cheering on your teammates. Giving all your effort. Hard work and determination. A desire to play. Never quitting. These are some of the reasons Vanguard students said about commitment being vital to the sport they play in, according to responses in a Feb. 2022 VR poll. At Vanguard, students are encouraged to pursue any sport, which gives athletes the opportunity to be a part of a team that maybe they could not have played for at a bigger public school — and many choose to play multiple sports all in one season. Junior Aldo Ibarra said that he enjoys being able to participate in multiple sports per season. “I think it is really nice to be able to play more than one sport in a season and switch between them as the season progresses,” Ibarra said. But when a student athlete can sign up to play as many sports as they want, can they really be equally committed to all of them, while also balancing rigorous academics? If someone plays tennis and is also on the cheer squad, for example, one team is going to suffer if there’s a tennis tournament and cheering for a basketball game on the same day and time. Basketball and cheer practice both take place after school, which also creates a conflict. Often, football and basketball seasons overlap when football goes to the playoffs — leaving the basketball team without some of its key players for preseason training. So, which team takes priority — and which team will have to do without that athlete? Fifty-four percent of students said it’s just not possible to be 100 percent committed to two sports at once, according to the VR poll — while 41 percent said that it is possible. Senior Dory Gonzales said she believes athletes can be fully committed if they are dedicated. “If you want to truly be dedicated to two sports in one season, it will take time out of your schedule because not only do you have to go to one practice, but also make time to practice the other sport,” Gonzales said. “Overall though, as long as [you’re] willing to put in the work and talk to each coach about your schedule you can definitely commit to two sports.” Other students, such as senior Avery Haynes, said that while they may not be able to give the full
100 percent commitment, athletes can still give at least 85 percent to the team. “I don’t think it’s necessarily possible to commit absolutely 100 percent to two sports at once, just because usually practices are at the same time and games can conflict with one another,” Haynes said. “But I definitely think it’s possible to give about 85 percent to each sport, accounting for the necessary adjustments due to conflicting schedules of the sports,” Haynes said. But is 85 percent enough? Is it fair to teammates and coaches for an athlete to take a spot on a team when, realistically, they only have time for one sport? Nearly 60 percent of students said no, according to the VR student poll. Ibarra said that it is fair to more independent performing sports but not for bigger team sports. “I think it is fair for some sports like cross country or tennis which are more individual but not for other sports like basketball or soccer which are more team-based,” Ibarra said. “In these team sports, going to practice is extremely important for building chemistry and knowing all the plays in order to be ready for games.” Athletic Director Will Curtis said that being fully committed to your sport is important because you have others depending on you. “I think full commitment to the sport is important,” Curtis said. “You are participating in an activity that is not only involving you, but many coaches and teammates that are depending on you.” About 40 percent of students said that they believe it is fair to commit to more than one sport in a season according to the VR student poll. Freshman Katie Leigh Livesay said that it is fair to be a part of multiple sports in a season. “Well I think if you do that then you should not be able to start or play because when I play two sports I have a schedule for what days I go to what practice,” Livesay said. Sophomore Elaina McCulloch agreed. “I think it is fair if you evenly go to both sports practices,” McCulloch said. According to the VR student poll, 70 percent of students said that they should not have to only commit to one sport per season. Students thrive on being able to participate and build bonds with other players who they might not run with on a normal
basis. Junior Katylu Offill said that there are severGonzales said al ways you can show commitment to your team that we Vikings and what it means. should be able to “Commitment can mean showing up to participate in more practice every day with a smile and a positive than one sport beattitude, working hard and giving it your all, and cause Vanguard is it can simply mean just showing up to practice a small school and and being there for your team,” Offill said. “So, needs bigger teams. committing to a sport should include showing up “Vanguard is every day with a positive attitude, working hard such a small school until practice and games are over. Being encourthat the bigger the aging can make a huge difference in the way the team, the better,” season plays out for the team.” Gonzales said. When certain players are not able to show up “Also that’s what or not participate, it can affect the overall morale makes Vanguard of the team and how sports fun because they perform. you are able to try Haynes said that new sports while an uncommitted playplaying a sport er can bring down the you’ve always team’s excitement. played,” Gonzales “An uncommitsaid. ted player can defiMcCulloch nitely bring down the agreed that athletes excitement and cashould be able to maraderie of a team,” play as many sports Haynes said. “It can as they would like also be a sad waste Looking to pass the ball, Sophomore Elaina McCulloch of skill that can affect to take part in. “ A t h l e t e s attempts to score. McCulloch said that athletes should be the ability of the team able to do as many sports as they want. In between points, should be able to overall.” Junior Aldo Ibarra and Sophomore Zach Henry bump do as many sports Curtis said that rackets to celebrate. Photos by Katylu Offill and Courtney as they want,” Mc- Wiethorn / Bifrost staff not bringing full comCulloch said. “Evmitment to the sport ery person is good at different things [and] you can weaken the whole team. should not restrict what sports they want to play “The whole team is affected when people canjust because they have the same seasons,” McCull- not commit to coming consistently to the practices och said. “It is very doable to commit to two sports or games, and will weaken the entire team, because if you put in the work for both.” each team is only as strong as every member of it,” Some students have said that the way they can Curtis said. show commitment to their team can be anywhere Ibarra also said that a lack of commitment can from words and acts of encouragement to simply decrease the overall performance of the team when just showing up to the practices. According to the they get to the district and play area of the season. VR student poll nearly 60 percent said that the num“When players aren’t fully committed, it can ber one way to show commitment to a sport is the decrease the overall morale of the team and hold effort put into practices and games—while nearly back the full potential of the team when it is time 40 percent said that it is attendance at practices and for district games and playoff games,” Ibarra said. games.
Athlete Spotlight: NataliaMartinez-Gil Brooke Jolliff ‘24 reporter
VR: How long have you been playing soccer? Natalia Martinez-Gil: At Vanguard, this was my first year but, In Spain I played for the past four years more or less VR: What qualities are the most important when playing soccer? NM: I think that the most important thing is to be a good teammate. If not, it’s really hard to play without having communication with your team. And also always go to practice and games, no excuses. VR: What do you enjoy the most about playing Junior Natalia Martinez-Gil stops by Mountainview soccer this year? Park, the field where the soccer team practices every NM: The people and the effort we put in. I really day after school. Photo by Sage Suchecki / Bifrost staff missed training soccer that hard.
VR: Is playing soccer here any different from playing it in Spain? Please explain. NM: Soccer in Spain is the most common sport, so probably there we used to have a lot more support. People went to watch us play any game; it didn’t matter if it was important or not. I also love that here we can play girls and boys on the same team. In Spain, that wouldn’t be possible. Guys there take soccer too personally and they just wouldn’t let us play because we are “girls.” VR: What is your favorite sports brand? NM: Nike, for sure.
VR: Do you have a favorite role model in sports? If so, who and why? NM: Christen press, I’ve been following her since I was little, I just love how good a player she is, she has everything a soccer player needs to be great. Her skills are amazing. VR: What’s your favorite pre-game or postgame meal? NM: I like to eat healthy before and after each game. I usually eat rice, meat, salad and fruit before a game. After the game, we usually go to a fast food place. Whataburger is not my favorite, but I just follow the team.
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Worries of war
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the Vietnam War. “Second, President Biden and “Biden has deployed several thousand U.S. Holze, so the U.S. has to be ready. ple would be more concerned with themselves NATO are concerned with Russia’s expansion and troops to Poland and the Baltic States as well as “I don’t think there will be a WWIII,” Holze said. than the good of their country and the world. I pressure on the sovereign nation of Ukraine and some of our naval ships and airplanes to our NATO “I at least hope cooler heads prevail, but it would be think that another war could even fracture Amerdo not want Russia to invade. Russia, on the other allies in Eastern Europe.” Livingstone said. “As wise to be ready for any scenario that may play out ican society as we are unable to unite over many hand, sees Ukraine as a geographic threat to them, Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces, he has with the weak leadership in our country today.” issues. I believe that the outbreak of a third especially if Ukraine joins NATO. Putin has gone the Constitutional power to send troops anywhere. Rumors on social media warn of a possible draft World War would affect us much like 9/11, by on record that war will take place if this is allowed I believe Biden sent troops to Poland and other that could send young people into battle. That’s uniting Americans for about a year then plumto happen.” NATO allies as a show of force to the Russians. something completely new to today’s youth — and meting us right back into conflict with ourselves. Gunnery Sergeant Daniel Pacheco, 32, is a Hitler taught us that force is the only way to stop it’s frightening. But experts agree that it is not likely. Though unlike the War on Terror that sprouted former Gunnery Sergeant of the Marine Corps re- bullies before they become too powerful.” “As it stands now, there is no draft cruiting office in Waco, now currently working for Pacheo explained that much of what is happenin the U.S. military,” Livingstone said. “As it stands now, there is no draft the recruiting office in Killeen. Pacheco’s job is to ing has to be kept from the public. “Our military is made up of 100 perin the U.S. military. Our military is recruit young men interested in serving the country “There is a lot of information that we don’t cent volunteers and has been so since and then preparing them for their three-month basic know which Biden is not going to tell us in order the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. made up of 100 percent volunteers training or boot camp. When he is required to go to protect us and our strategies so they will not get As of right now, young men must sign and has been since the end of the back to his fleet, his job is to lead men to success out,” Pacheco said. “No one knows the true story up for “Selective Service” by the time there. of why he is doing anything bethey turn 18, but technically this is only Vietnam War in 1975.” “U.S. troops have actually cause it will jeopardize us.” a collection of names and information - Brad Livingstone, History teacher been in Ukraine since 2011, Jayce Glass, 18, recently to be used if Congress re-institutes a Biden in fact has not sent any enlisted in the Marines and will draft. I do not believe that a draft is of our troops to Ukraine, howbe shipping out to boot camp at imminent any time soon and if it does from 9/11, we would be facing a formidable eneever some troops have been Camp Pendleton, San Diego on happen, that means things have gone south, have my in Russia and possibly even China and Amersent to other bordering counJune 6. He has enlisted to be a gone to war, and desperately need to call up troops. icans would have to unite and fight together to tries like Poland,” Pacheco Marine Corps infantryman and Again, I do not think this will happen any time in the prevent a disastrous ending like that of the War in said. “Russia has been trying plans to stay in the program for near future.” Afghanistan or a possibly even worse scenario.” to gain control of Ukraine for the next five years. Pacheco agreed. Livingstone does not see that coming, he years. Russia’s growing inter“I think that Biden sending “Personally I don’t think there will be a draft,” said. est in Ukraine is driven by its troops to help out in the area is Pacheo said. “Especially the Marine Corps will not “It depends where it is and who we are fightdesire for its waterways and somewhat controversial,” Glass be holding a draft. America is a 100 percent voluning,” Livingstone said. “If it is against Russia, easier access to trade.” said. “Our military is required to teer-based country. They recruit, not draft, so the given the rules of M.A.D. (Mutually Assured DeOn February 11, the Biden fight for freedom and crush the likelihood of an event like this to happen would be struction), it will be absolutely devastating. We administration ordered 3,000 spread of Communism, howvery surprising.” cannot allow this to happen and I believe both more troops to Poland in order ever I do not think we need to But the men and women who have committed to sides will avoid this at all costs.” Jayce Glass, 18, recently enlisted in to demonstrate our country’s get involved since Ukraine has serve their country have no reservations. West worries that the country is already too the Marines and will be shipping out commitment to NATO. enough military power. We are “If there happens to be war, because I am my divided. to bootcamp at Camp Pendleton, San “I believe that Biden was Diego on June 6. only being used for intimidation mother’s only son, they will not directly put me on “I think today’s society would not respond right to send troops, but with purposes.” the front lines,” Glass said. “However, I will fight well to a third world war,” West said. “We are the Russians having more than 100,000 on the Although Biden sent troops to Poland, do my way to them. For others who are first born, it is already very divided as a nation over politics and Ukrainian border, 8,000 U.S. troops in Poland was these circumstances necessarily mean that the U.S. terrifying because they are the ones who will directly race, plus the pandemic which has been politia bad idea,” junior Andrew Holze said. “Because is on the brink of war? be getting sent to the front lines.” cized, making it worse.” of the army doctrine of wanting at least a 5:1 ratio “Realistically I don’t think a war will happen,” GenZ has lived through these never ending wars Right now kids may only be worrying about in our favor, sending this few was a poor decision. Pacheco said. “But if one does, even if we win, we for instance our 13 year long conflict with Afghanihow it will be affecting them and their country in Though we should not send the 500,000 that would still lose lives, technology, etc. That’s why neither stan. Now that GenZs are older and could be directly the future, but it is also currently affecting many be desired for best combat effectiveness, sending us nor Russia really want to go to war. Putin says affected by something like a draft, it hits closer to people right now, especially the newest members only 8,000 would leave these men to almost certain he’s going to do things but he’s only making threats home. in the armed forces. death if fighting breaks out. We should still definite- to confuse everyone. He’s not going to do anything “Because there’s a constant flow of bad news, as “At the same time I want to go,” Glass said. ly be involved because if Russia takes Ukraine, they to put his country in a bad position and Biden plans teens, we’re kind of desensitized to it,” said fresh“It’s pretty nerve racking because war is all evwill not stop. We should first help economically un- to do the same with man Libby Ateryone is talking about right now. At the same til the military is our only remaining option.” ours.” “Because there’s a constant flow of tas. “But know- time it is scary. It’s also what we have been preOthers think maybe the U.S. got involved too Livingstone agreed. ing something paring for, so it’s a great way for us to show what soon. “I do not believe bad news, as teens, we’re kind of de- is really hapwe’ve learned. This is probably similar to how “I think the U.S. sent troops too early,” senior WWIII will be fought sensitized to it. Knowing something pening now is a lot of other future Marines see it. It’s kind of Naomi Wes said. “They’ve already been in Ukraine over the Ukrainian sitkind of a bizarre scary because I have to think about how I am affor a while now and I think sending more to the area uation,” Livingstone is really happening now is kind of a feeling. Growfecting everyone around me, like how my family just elevated the problem. Putin probably felt very said. “There is too much ing up, I always is going to feel if I have to go to war.” bizarre feeling.” threatened that the U.S. got involved so soon.” to lose, on all sides.” heard about our But Pacheo said war is a part of life. - Libby Attas, freshman troops being in But Livingstone said it is important to rememAnything is possi“9/11 was horrible, but look at the state of ber that, so far, no troops have been sent to Ukraine. ble, said junior Andrew Afghanistan and the country afterwards,” Pacheo said. “People how there’s something new.” became more patriotic, wanted to serve and Holze said he believes war could either unite or wanted to protect it. If it were to happen, it is just divide our country. a part of life. We came back from 9/11 and we “I believe that many Americans would not supcan come back from this too.” port our country in a war,” he said. “Though it would be just as necessary as World War 1 or 2, many peo-
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