The Searchlight April 2022

April 2022

WALPOLE HIGH SCHOOL

VOLUME XXv, ISSUE IIII

NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO.8

WALPOLE, MA 02081

Judge Jackson nominated to Supreme Court President Biden makes first Supreme Court nomination of

By Sophia Brownsword News Editor

On Feb. 25, 2022 Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson was nominated by President Joe Biden to serve as a justice on the United States Supreme Court. Judge Jackson’s nomination came after the retirement announcement of former Supreme Court Associate Justice Stephen Breyer. Justice Breyer has served on the Supreme Court

for 27 years, after his appointment from President Bill Clinton in 1994.

Judge Jackson graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, soon followed by graduating cum laude at Harvard Law School. During her career, she has served as United States Circuit Judge, a United States District Judge andVice Chair and Commissioner on the United States Sentencing Commission. A nomination to the Highest Court in the Land is an extensive Photo/ T.J. Kirkpatrick

Judge Jackson completed her three day Senate hearing necessary for appointment.

Walpole The

team’s

Robotics

2022

By Maggie Mahoney Assistant Sports Editor

Every year since 2003, the Walpole Robotics team has constructed a new robot to compete among New England’s best at competitions run by For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics.

This year, the Timberwolves and their robot, Hachiko, have enjoyed great success, earning them spots in both the New England and World Championships later this month.

In January, the team received the game plan for this year’s competitions, outlining the tasks their robot would have to perform beginning in early March. In just two months, the team got together all of the subunits needed and programmed their robot to perform this year’s tasks including throwing balls into both a high-level and low -level hub as well as climbing uneven bars. In order to bring a complex robot together in such a short time frame took passion, dedication and loyalty from the whole team, in-

robot,

process taken out by the current Presidential administration when an appointment is needed. Every aspect of potential candidates’ lives are scoped out–career, education, family, personal life–because all of it will come into question during the three day Senate hearing.

Judge Jackson’s appointment came from her vast experience in all areas of the American court system. Her experience not only as a judge, but as a lawyer, a public defender nonetheless, allowed her to witness various types of cases and garner more experience. During the three day Senate hearing, much of the experience that was beneficial in her original nomination was called into question. As a public defender, Judge Jackson had to represent her clients whether they were guilty or innocent. A lot of her work as a defendant in past cases was called into question by Senators, wondering if her defense was a representation of her personal beliefs; consequently,

prepares

Hachiko,

succeeds

in

presidency

Judge Jackson was required multiple times during the Senate hearing to remind the commission and the audience of what exactly her job as a judge entailed. Her poise and well-structured responses during her Senate hearing were even more of a perspective into Judge Jackson’s personality and how she could potentially conduct on the court.

On Apr. 4, the Senate Judiciary Committee deadlocked, 14 for and 14 against, on the vote to approve Judge Jackson for the court. It was then decided that the vote was to move directly onto Senate floor. On Apr. 7, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson was confirmed to the United States Supreme Court.

The vote was commenced with 53 votes for and 47 against, party lines being crossed in support of Judge Jackson’s nomination.

Judge Jackson will be the first Black woman to serve as a justice, the third Black justice and the sixth woman to serve overall since the court’s establishment in 1789.

for

early

worlds

competitions

spiring the robot’s name: Hachiko.

“The competitions are tion, which according to FIRST, “Hachiko is named af- my favorite part of robotics be- “celebrates machine robustness ter the renowned Akita dog who cause it is always fun meeting peo- in both concept and fabrication.” waited everyday at the train sta- ple from other teams and cheerNow the team looks fortion for his owner because his re- ing on our robot,” Shah said. ward to competing at the Big E in markable loyalty represents our So far, Hachiko has earned Springfield in the New England team,” senior Angel Shah said. the team a strong tenth place rank- District Championship April14-16 In competitions, Hachiko ing heading into the New England and then traveling to Houston for has not yet let the Timberwolves championships by placing second the FIRST World Championships down. In their first qualifying com- at both the North Shore Competi- over April break. Although this is petitions, Walpole was paired with tion and Central Mass Competi- not the team’s first trip to compete the teams from Bridgewater-Rayn- tion in March. Additionally, the on the world stage, this opportunity ham Regional High School and team received the Quality award serves as an exciting culmination to Tewksbury High School to form an at the Central Mass Competi- Hachiko’s successful run this year. alliance that competed in a series Photo/ Facebook of 3v3 games. Much like any other sport, the goal is for the robots to score points throughout the 2:30 minute game. Robots must autonomously leave their starting tarmac and shoot the large cargo balls into a structure 10 feet tall before drivers can control the robots remotely.

Within the teams of three, the objective is to continue to score as many points by shooting the cargo into the two scoring hubs while playing defense by pushing the other robots and blocking their shots, and climbing up the hanger bars after a strong performance at the Central Mass competition. in the final seconds of the game. The team poses with their awards WALPOLESTUDENTMEDIANETWORK @WHSSEARCHLIGHT

NEWS

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the

April 2022

Dance Co. performs “Denouement”

SEARCHLIGHT The company debuts their first live act since 2019 Photo/ Cate Stanton

Editorial Board Editors-in-Chief Cate Stanton Katie Gillis

The company had a total of 10 girls this year. Junior

By Cate Stanton Editor-in-Chief

News Editor Sophia Brownsword Grace Ryan Sports Editor Kathryn Maclean Assistant Sports Editor Maggie Mahoney Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor Isabelle O’Connell Opinion Editor Liam McDonough Graphics and Design Editor Kristyn Dentremont Social Media and Business Director Farrell Raeke

Staff Second Year Writers Toby Moses Annie Cameron First Year Writers Olivia Carney Yessica Cruz Caroline Donnelly Alana Fitzgerald Ciara Foley Angel Garcia Ashley Griffin Kara Horne Thomas Jarvis Erin Malinn Jackson Massey Meghan McNeil Bruce Norwell Rebecca Stern Emily Sullivan AJ Watson

Socials @whssearchlight

On April 1 and 2, Walpole High School Dance Company had their first performance since March 2019. Two years ago, the company had their performance canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All of their hard work choreographing and learning dances went unnoticed when they were not able to perform. Last year, the company was only allowed to practice outside and was not able to perform on stage with an audience. With the company finally being able to perform normally this year, they titled their performance, “Denouement,” a term that means the climax of a complex chain of events. “Denouement” is meant to represent the last few years of the Dance Company and finally being able to perform in a normal setting at the end.

“To me the show was about struggle and one’s journey to acceptance and happiness. A lot of the songs were about anxiety and stress and battling the hardships of life,” Senior captain Sydney Taylor said. “But some of them were more upbeat and the last full company song in the show was about finally finding yourself and being happy in your own skin.”

Having to cancel the show in March 2019 because of the pandemic was especially tough for the juniors and seniors in the company.

They went two full years without a normal performance and watched the numbers drop from about 30-40 girls total to 10 this year. However, with all of this, the girls did not lose motivation and came back for a performance they will cherish forever.

“The overall show was meant to be a strong comeback, a rebound from the two previous years. A lot of the songs within the show were about being unapologeti

Leah

Clifford

during

cally yourself, expressing who you are and who you want to be freely,” senior head captain Sofia Santiago said. “Performing this year meant so much to the members who have experienced the last two years in the company, we finally got a chance to show everyone what Dance Company is about.”

Under artistic directors Laura Barajas and Alyssa Tempesta, as well as assistant director Molly Rockwood, the company performed eight dances total, with six group acts. With the smaller numbers in the company this year, each of the girls had to

WHS

Dance

Company

the

last

of

the

night.

“The White Picket Fence,” “A Long Time” and “A Righteous Wrath.”

In their last dance, all of the girls were dressed in different colors dancing along with different colored curtains dropping as they went on.

“My favorite dance was “License To Thrill” in the first act.

It was the silliest song out of the bunch and it was so fun to perform. We were told to mouth the words while dancing, smile and to chant the other dancers on if you were backstage,” Santiago said.

Everyone in the Dance Company agrees that their time in the group has had a major

performing

learn the majority of the dances.

In the first act, the company opened with a dance called “Medusa,” coming onto stage in all black outfits, each with a wooden pole as props. The company then went on to perform “Rita Farr,” “To Sink Beneath The Waves” and “License To Thrill.”

“My favorite dance was “To Sink Beneath The Waves.”

We were told it was about nostalgia and bittersweet moments. Being a senior and performing my last show with these people really made the dance special as well as being able to channel a real emotion I had been feeling made the dance more authentic,” Taylor said.

In the second act, the company performed “Outre Lux,”

dance

“A

Long

Time.”

impact on their high school years.

It has allowed these girls to fully express their inner selves not only through art, but also through life.

Being a part of Dance Company has changed their lives and anyone at Walpole High is encouraged to join.

“It is safe to say that Dance Company taught us valuable life lessons, like being yourself and not caring what people think. I find myself with more confidence to be me in any type of setting. I will look back fondly on the memories and friendships I’ve made and I owe a lot to it,” Taylor said.

Congratulations to the three seniors, Sydney Taylor, Sofia Santiago and Hailey Gilbert on their four years in Dance Company. Best of luck in the future!

@whssearchlight

Walpole High School’s newspaper is committed to informing the public, reflecting the students’ views, creating a public forum and serving as an educational medium. To send a letter to the editor, please email jferguson@walpole.k12.ma.us a letter of 200 words or less.

The

group

bows

together

after

the

show. The

Girls

dancing

in

“To

Sink

Beneath

The

Waves.”

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April 2022

OPINION

page 4

April 2022

WHS should not require AP exams Walpole’s current rules burden students with AP fees

By Katie Gillis Editor-in-Chief

Each May, students across the world take Advanced Placement (AP) Exams. AP classes and exams are administered by the College Board, the same organization that oversees the SAT. These tests are intended to provide a standard for the millions of students who take AP classes annually; colleges see thousands of students who take AP European History, for example, but only a select few are able to earn a top score.

It is impossible to deny how valuable AP classes and exams are.

Advanced students have the ability to take rigorous classes comparable to college-level courses while still in high school. Plus, those who score well enough on the exam have the potential to earn college credits, which is a great opportunity to save money or graduate early in the future. At surface level, these classes may seem like a no-brainer.

However, there is a major catch: at Walpole High School, students are required to take this exam for each AP class that they are enrolled in. While these exams may allow students to impress college admissions counselors, each one comes

More

at a high price; $96 to be exact.

“Students in an AP course are required to pay the full exam fee. Any student who fails to pay for and/or take the exam will be removed from the AP course,” the Walpole High School Handbook says.

The major issue is, AP exams do not necessarily guarantee any college credit. Most colleges only allow credits for those students who score a four or five on their exam, and some do not provide credit at all. Unless the circumstances align perfectly for an AP student, the $96 expense essentially goes to waste.

“I took AP Calculus this year because I enjoy math and I wanted to challenge myself, but I am not confident that I will receive a good score on the exam, so I feel like I am wasting my parents’ money,” an anonymous WHS senior said. “If I had the option, I probably would not have even taken the exam, especially because the college I’m going to requires a four or five.”

The College Board does offer fee waivers; however, the qualifying standards are extremely limited. For example, students must be in foster care or homeless, or their families must be significantly below the poverty line or receiving food stamps. Even students who meet

teachers

Graphic/ Kristyn Dentremont

Each AP exam is $96, which becomes expensive for students enrolled in multiple.

these criteria still must pay $53, which is not that much cheaper.

For those who do not meet these guidelines, fees can quickly add up, especially for students who are enrolled in multiple AP courses. Senior Michael Jung has taken nine total AP classes throughout his time in high school, meaning he has had to take and pay for nine total exams.

“I think students should not pay for the exams because other schools pay for students’ exams, and it is dissentive, especially for those who take lots of AP classes since the exam is over $90,” Jung said.

should

hold

“These classes are really hard and the costs of the exam should be the last thing kids have to worry about.”

At Walpole High, there is no other alternative for these advanced classes, so students must decide whether they would rather enroll in a lower level course, thus putting them at an academic disadvantage, or pay the fees, which they may not be able to afford. In order to provide a fair education, in which all students are able to learn at their proper comprehension level, Walpole must allow exams to become optional for all AP courses.

class

outside

Outdoor classes and short breaks increase student productivity and focus

By Toby Moses Staff Writer

Last year, as a result of the pandemic and longer class periods, many teachers went on walks or held class outside where students could safely remove their masks.

These outdoor breaks were a highlight of a difficult school year for many students, as adaptations to COVID-19 altered normal practices. As the pandemic slows down in 2022 and school precautions ease, fewer teachers take breaks in classes. Although there is no need for mask breaks currently, as the mask mandate has been lifted in

Massachusetts, the breaks may have been more beneficial to students than many teachers realized.

Incorporating breaks into lectures can help students stay focused on the task at hand while also retaining information better. In a 2011 study from the University of Illinois, students were assigned a break to perform a simple task during a 50 minute lesson while others worked non-stop. The group with a break remained on-task and sharp while the group that worked continuously declined progressively throughout the lesson. The study shows that students benefit from taking short breaks, learning straight Photo/ Twitter

Fisher

School

students

sit

outside

for

class

with

their

teacher.

through long lessons is ineffective.

Short breaks are also easy to incorporate into a class, making their inclusion less taxing for teachers. Students enjoyed the mask breaks that they took last year, without fully realizing the benefits that breaks have regarding retaining information.

The high school has kept certain pandemic practices like allowing students to eat outside, so taking breaks from class should be kept as well. Teachers can allocate just five or ten minutes a class to taking a short break, and the positive effects will still be seen. Many teachers did this last year, and students enjoyed these short breaks as a bright spot in a tough year.

Although holding classes outside is no longer needed for disease prevention, as it was during the height of COVID-19, it has its own set of mental health benefits for students. When the weather permits, having classes outdoors is a great option that keeps school more exciting and lets students get fresh air throughout the day. Last year, many teachers brought their classes outside, but this can be seen far less in 2022. What teachers may not realize, however, are the many benefits of outdoor learning. Research suggests that students behave better outdoors, with teachers reporting less disciplinary issues. Additionally, outdoor learning improves aca-

demic performance for many, and can benefit the mental health of students. Although bringing more classes outdoors may pose a challenge due to limited viable space, teachers at Walpole should consider doing so. To resolve the issue of limited space, the elementary schools in Walpole did a great job of setting up new areas where teachers could effectively move their classes outside.

Due to the success of holding classes outdoors, the elementary schools have continued this practice into this school year. If Walpole High were to follow suit, more teachers would feel comfortable holding classes outside and not feel that losing the focus of students would be an issue.

While the pandemic has declined over recent months and should hopefully continue to do so, changes that teachers made for school last year should continue in the future. Students require breaks from learning to stay productive, and taking classes outdoors when the weather permits is enjoyable for many. Hopefully, as the weather improves this spring, teachers will consider bringing back breaks and using the outdoor spaces at Walpole High to do class activities. Students undoubtedly enjoyed the pandemic practices of mask breaks and outdoor classes, so teachers should consider bringing them back for the end of this year.

OPINION

page 5

April 2022

Walpole should consider two-week March break Having

a

longer

By Cate Stanton Editor-in-Chief

In a typical school year, Walpole Public Schools (WPS) have three vacation breaks per year: one in December, one in February and one in April. However, more and more schools are moving away from the multiple, week-long breaks in February and April and substituting them for a two week break in March.

The two week March break has more benefits than expected, and WPS should consider the change.

When students are given one week off, it is often too short to actually relax and debrief from school. During school breaks, many students end up picking up more shifts at their job or taking driver’s education rather than just relaxing. Students at Walpole High especially are very busy throughout the year taking eight classes per semester with hours of homework to complete as well as extracurricular activities after school. This puts students at a constant level of high stress. The one week break goes by quickly and does not give students enough time to get away from the stress of their school work.

“From someone that has experienced both the week-long breaks in February and April as well as the two week break in March, I would say the March break is better,” Roxbury Latin School seventh grader Thomas Stanton

break

allows

said. “The March break gives you way more time to get away from school for a while and just relax.”

Having one longer break is less disruptive to learning. Right before each break in December, February and April, teachers often give tests in every class, which brings more stress to students. Not to blame teachers because this is an ideal time for a test, but students go on break and forget everything they learned the week before. The March break would save teachers time from reviewing the material that was taught before break because students forgot. It also saves students from an

for

greater

extra week of high stress, studying for and taking tests everyday.

Both the February and April breaks also fall during sports seasons every year. Students who participate in sports continue to have practices everyday, often in the mornings, which can take away from the much needed rest. Instead of catching up on sleep, students continuously wake up early for practice. However, a two week March break would change this, as the break would likely fall right in between the winter and spring sports seasons. This also would make it easier for families to travel during vacation weeks. Typi-

stress

relief

cally, high school students are not allowed to miss practices or games for vacation, so with a two week break in March, more families would be able to travel without missing sports.

Families can also plan longer vacations during this two week break as well as coordinating vacations with their children in college.

College spring breaks normally fall during these middle two weeks in March, which would now make it available for them to join the family vacation. Overall, the benefits of the two week break in March should definitely be considered for WPS as they plan out next year’s schedule.

Graphic/ Kristyn Dentremont

Longer

breaks

give

students

more

opportunity

to

relax

and

spend

time

with

friends

and

family.

Walpole must provide diverse lunch options Many

students

By Katie Gillis Editor-in-Chief

It is impossible to deny the extent to which COVID-19 has affected school systems as a whole.

However, at Walpole High School, perhaps one of the largest changes can be seen through the school lunch program. Prior to the pandemic, students had a variety of options in addition to the main entree, including a salad bar, pizza station

with

dietary

and several other grab-and-go options, including wraps, sandwiches and snacks. Although students did have to pay for their lunch each day, they had much more freedom to choose whatever they wanted to eat.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken much of this variety away. Although Walpole students have had the opportunity to receive free lunch and breakfast throughout the 20212022 school year, it has come at Photo/ Katie Gillis

The

school

provides

some

options

for

those

with

restrictive

diets.

restrictions

the expense of the freedom of choice which they formerly enjoyed. Now, students only have one option, the main daily entree.

While this may seem like a fair trade off—free meals in exchange for the freedom to choose— the lack of options leave many students without sufficient lunch on certain days. Although there are certain varieties made for those with allergies or dietary preferences, they typically do not compare to the standard main dish.

“Whenever I can’t eat the main dish, I have a difficult time trying to find an alternative option,” said one vegetarian student.

“Sometimes they run out, or sometimes they tell me I have to go somewhere else in the school to get it, so I kind of feel uncomfortable asking.”

Research from the Food Allergy and Research Education (FARE) Center shows that one in 13 children have a food allergy and according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prevalence of food allergies amongst children has increased by over 50% in the last few years. These statistics do not even account for those who have dietary restrictions due to per-

are

excluded

sonal or religious beliefs, an amount which is also growing rapidly. There is no denying that this issue is becoming increasingly prevalent in society, and by failing to provide for this growing minority of students, Walpole remains one step behind.

“Most days I can’t eat the main meal, so I usually have to ask them if they have another choice for me,” one student with Celiac disease said. “Sometimes they have gluten-free pizza or pulled pork on a gluten-free roll, but one time the only option they had was a cheese stick and a granola bar.”

The cafeteria staff has undoubtedly done their best to supply both nutritious and appetizing meals for all students, despite the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic had brought. While providing free lunches this year has been a massive step in the right direction, the new policy means nothing if students are not actually able to enjoy these meals. Many students do not have other opportunities to eat lunch throughout the day, so it is crucial that Walpole Schools provides sufficient options for those with all different backgrounds, beliefs and restrictions.

Feature

page 6

April 2022

Course selection does not reflect students’ ability Students

tend

to

By Liv Carney, Caroline Donnelly and Emily Sullivan Staff Writers

Over the past decade, acceptance rates for colleges have dropped, upping the competition to get into desirable schools. To compete with their class, students push themselves to take higher courses in hopes of creating a better resume; however, the results are not always beneficial. Taking too many challenging courses that are not appropriately for students’ level can lead to stress, feeling overworked, and even having lower grades, leading to the opposite outcome for prospective college applicants.

“Sometimes I feel if I want to get into the schools I really want to get into, I need to take high-level classes and get good grades in these classes,” sophomore Katie Colleran said, who is currently taking four honor classes and one AP class.

According to the APA, 31% of students reported feeling overwhelmed and stressed in school, while another 31% reported feeling depressed because of the amount of stress they receive from school. In addition to these effects, many students feel as though having a lower grade in a high-level class is more attractive to colleges compared to a higher grade in a

prioritize

resume-boosting

lower class level. However, honesty about one’s progress year to year can be beneficial in both managing grades and alleviating stress.

“While making course selections I think about what works the best for me. If I do well in one class, I will go up a level and if I struggle I stay or go down. This all has to do with your pace and diligence in class,” sophomore Aidan Rameaka said.

Due to external pressures, many students fail to identify their strengths and weaknesses in certain subjects and consequently take on an overwhelming courseload. In a survey to WHS students, 66.7% of respondents feel pressured to take high-level courses because of college resumes, proving that many students prioritize their college resumes over their own learning.

Surveyed students were split evenly on whether it is better to have high grades in lower-level classes or low grades in high-level classes.

“I think it is important to challenge yourself, I do think that sometimes students may choose higher-level classes because of college or GPA pressures,” school counselor Tori Noyes said.

One result of stress in the classroom is the inability to learn new material; even if a student is placed in the appropriate level class in one

over

academic

success

Graphic/ Kristyn Dentremont

Many

students

suffer

in

classes

subject area, anxiety and pressure in other classes can interfere with a student’s overall performance. As a result, the cause of stress in school is not necessarily dictated by level, but by inappropriate placement.

This dilemma begs the question: how many challenging courses is too much? The science behind the brain concludes that so much stress on it can disrupt normal brain development and increase the risk of disease in adulthood, as re-

that

are

too

difficult

for

them.

ported by a 2014 Harvard study.

Therefore, the notion that taking high-level courses is the foundation of a successful college career is a false perception; the best way to choose what classes to take is based on what is best for the individual.

Having a balanced yet challenging workload in high school is crucial to the high school experience, aids in creating a well-rounded resume, and ultimately leaves students prepared for success after graduation.

GSA spreads awareness on transgender laws Many

teens

are

uninformed

about

Photo/ Teghan O’Connell

WHS

students

show

support

at

By Erin Malinn, Ciara Foley and Meghan McNeil Staff Writers In just the first week of 2022, seven different states in the U.S. proposed bills against non-binary and transgender youth, affecting eligibilty to play sports, use bathrooms, or receive healthcare. As a result, schools and communities across the country have shown support to the community with protests, speeches, and social media posts.

WHS’s GSA (Gender & Sexuality Alliance) club staged a walkout on March 17 in solidarity with LGBTQ individu-

the

recent

transgender

walkout.

als across the country affected by discriminatory legislation.

Although the walkout was met with high attendance by students, visible schoolwide support of LGBTQ issues—in particular, transgender issues—is mixed. According to a student survey, 40% of students at WHS have only “basic knowledge” surrounding transgender issues.

“I think a lot of people were frustrated [with the walkout] since it kinda seemed to be a joke [...] but, as a whole, it was nice to see so many people there,” GSA president Teghan O’Connell said.

The lack of awareness about the protest stems from a

new

discriminatory

larger issue; many teens fail to understand what is going on in other states across the nation that does not directly affect citizens in Massachusetts. For example, legislation in Florida known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill banned instruction about gender identity and sexuality in schools for students in kindgarten through third grade, and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill on March 28. Similarly, Gov. Greg Abott proposed legislation that would categorize gender-affirming medical treatments to minors as child abuse.

In addition to those two states, the Equality Foundation reports that over a dozen states are considering legislation banning access to gender-affirming medical care.

“I don’t think a lot of people may have heard about the laws but they might not have looked into it and seen how close they are to our state and the implications of these laws,” O’Connell said.

Following the walkout, many students felt that peers used the protest as a reason to skip class, and were otherwise disinterested in the meaning behind the protest, pointing to a larger issue of school culture surrounding LGBTQ acceptance.

“It was kind of a nightmare,” sophomore Sarah Van der Linden said. “I saw people throwing food and poptarts, it left a lot of people rattled afterwards.”

legislation

Another reason for lack of awareness comes from the lack of education surrounding LGBTQ topics. 86% of survey respondents feel they have not learned anything about transgender issues in school.

As a result, many students lack understanding of the true harm of microaggressions such as negative comments and jokes that make school an unsafe environment for LGBTQ students. According to youth.gov, 42% of LGBTQ youth seriously contemplated suicide in the past year, and 70% state that their mental health has been poor.

“The art wing really only shows anything concerning the situation,” sophomore Skylar Evans said. “You don’t really see much of anything else around the school.”

But although support for the walkout was not universally positive, GSA members still felt those who attended went home with more knowledge about transgender youth problems and more awareness of GSA’s goals within the school. For those who are interested in learning more about LGBTQ issues, students can find resources through GSA, school counseling, and trusted staff members.

“Our goal is [for GSA] to be a safe space for all to come to,” O’Connell said. “We don’t want anyone to feel as if they’re by themselves in this.”

page 7

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April 2022

PAGE 8

FEATURE

APRiL 2022

First invented by the Babylonians in 450 BCE, astrological signs have prevailed throughout history and are still presen determined by the month in which someone is born, and are often believed to determine one’s character. Astrology is made ever, and there are other categories that are determined by exact specifications of the stars during the time and place someo are sun, moon and rising. Moon signs are meant to represent one’s inner emotions, rising is the way we are perceived to oth There are many other signs including Venus, Mars, Mercury and other planets. The signs are determined by where the loca the date of your birth. Sun signs are typically the most popular and well known, due to the fact that they are the broadest an whole.

Personally, I feel like my attributes do directly line up with my “big three” signs, which does contribute to my own confidenc and Scorpio rising. Cancers are meant to be sensitive, devoted, and protective. My Cancer sun is supposed to resemble my e moon and Scorpio Rising get more specific. Moon signs resemble a person’s inner emotions, the subconscious that is not pr like myself tends to be hot-tempered, adventurous, and emotionally independent. Rising signs, also known as ascending, are signs tend to signify how someone projects themselves, instead of that in which they keep to themselves. While moon signs a when someone was born, rising signs are determined by which constellation was on the eastern horizon during someone’s e you get to know them, but show off a tougher exterior.

The qualities of astrological signs are often determined by the planet that rules over the sign, and as well classified sim planets were named for. For example, an Aries is ruled over by the planet Mars, the Roman God of War. Consequently, Ari as those are corresponding traits between the two. Interestingly, in modern astrology, Scorpio’s ruling planet is Pluto, howev ruling planet was said to be Mars. Many traits of Aries and Scorpio are quite similar then in turn.

While we may not know everything about astrology, and some of the information out there may be contradictory, the your own. Personally, I believe my astrological jurisdictions fit my personality, so I may be more inclined to believe in it. Astr ture of all of the characteristics that may or may not fit someone’s personality.

At the risk of being perfectl be accurate, whereas others feel th among adolescents today. A prima ticular, Tik Tok. There are often tr personalities, fictional characters a related Tik Toks are added to thei heavily to astrology’s popularity be other website has taken on a prom curate account of astrological info Besides descriptions of different si insightful perspective toward their There is an increasing emph ourselves on a more meaningful le sionate, persistent and secretive. A nity to better themselves and learn Adolescents deal with many social Z-ers rely on astrology for predicti Despite its suspicion, astrolo astrology can give meaning, direct

Graphic / Kristyn Dentremont

FEATURE

nt in modern society today. The 12 sun signs are e up of more than just the popular sun signs howone was born. The most popular “big three” signs hers and sun is the culmination of everything. ation of the sun, moon or specific planet was on nd are determining factors in your character as a

ce in astrology. I am a Cancer sun, Aries moon, entire character as a whole, whereas my Aries rojected outwards. Someone with an Aries moon e somewhat of the opposite of a moon sign. These are ruled by what constellation the moon was in exact time of birth. Scorpio rising are sweet once

milarly to the Roman gods and goddesses that those ies are often described as hot-tempered and bold, ver before Pluto’s existence was known, Scorpio’s

e choice about whether or not to believe in it is rology is not “one size fits all,’ but instead a mix-

ly blunt, there is no proof that astrology is 100% true. Some find certain aspects to he entire concept is completely preposterous; nonetheless, astrology is wildly popular ary contribution to astrology’s attraction among teenagers is social media, and in parrends on the app where creators list different zodiac signs under different aesthetics, and countless other categories. When users interact with these videos, more zodiacir feed, perpetuating astrology’s popularity. By the same token, BuzzFeed contributes ecause of the quizzes offered regarding different signs. In recent years, however, anminent role in astrological readings: Co-Star. Co-Star claims to be a historically acormation, and it offers a variety of different readings and updates on peoples’ signs. igns, Co-Star provides charts and graphics based on NASA data to give users an r astrological readings. hasis on wellness in today’s generation, and astrology can serve as a template to better evel. For instance, Cosmopolitan Magazine describes Scorpios as the following: pasAttributing both positive and negative qualities to each sign gives them the opportun more about their personalities. Similarly, people turn to astrology in times of stress. l stressors, but astrology offers comfort for the future. As a result, millennials and Gen ions about their daily lives and moods. ogy provides a sense of control and allows people to look deeper into their lives. So, tion and hope to those who need it.

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lifeStyle

April 2022

April break bucket list ideas to do with friends Ways to take advantage of the nice weather by participating in outdoor activities

By Isabelle O’Connell Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor If you are lacking travel plans for this upcoming spring break, there are numerous activities one can enjoy while at home this April vacation. Because the weather is getting warmer and the flowers are starting to bloom, outdoor activities are back for the season. Here are some April break bucket list ideas to enjoy with friends as the days grow warmer.

The first bucket list idea to do with friends is to wake up early and watch the sunrise. If going into break on a budget, driving to watch the sunrise, or even the sunset, will cost little to nothing. Places such as the beach or hiking spots are quality locations where the sunrise or sunset can be seen clearly. Places such as Medfield State Hospital, or even going to a beach like Nantasket are great local spots. The hardest part of this activity will be catching the sun at the right time and getting up in time to see the sunrise. Sitting in a calming location with friends

watching the sunset or sunrise is a stress reliever and inexpensive idea to do as the weather continues to get warmer.

On the same note as out-

depending on the budget. Grabbing a group of friends and planning a picnic is a fun activity, but executing the plan is even better.

Next, coordinating an Photo/Kristyn Dentremont

Vacation activties to do when the weather grows warmer and outdoor activities begin.

door activities, doing a picnic with friends during break can be done on a sunny afternoon or warm night. Going to a location such as a Bird Park or even heading down to Marshfield to sit by the water are favorable places to have a picnic. One could bring snacks such as a charcuterie board and sparkling cider or even just normal snacks

outdoor movie with family or friends is a good way to wind down and spend quality time together.

For this, one would need a big screen to put outside and some sort of portable projector to project the movie onto the screen. Although this activity depends on warm weather with no wind or rain, this time of the year is perfect because the temperature is

beginning to warm up. Bringing easy movie snacks such as candy and popcorn are sufficient for this event. An outdoor movie with others is a more innovative way to watch a movie rather than sitting inside and doing so.

Lastly, a daytime activity to participate in with the warm weather approaching is hiking.

Although this is not everyones favorite activity, it is a great way to get exercise while taking advantage of the warmer weather. This is another activity that does not cost any money when working on a budget. Hiking in the spring time can be a more enjoyable experience because the weather is cool rather than sweltering hot on a summer day.

Hiking spots are not always be easy to find, but one of the local favorites is Blue Hills in Canton.

Spending April break at home can seem boring, but these simple and price-friendly ideas no longer make break feel this way. Coming up with innovative outdoor ideas to do with friends this vacation can make for some unforgettable memories. Enjoy these simple activities during the Spring.

Closet cleanout from a winter to spring wardrobe Ways to change your style from bulky winter clothing back to cheery spring clothes

By Farrell Raeke Social Media and Business Manager With warm weather approaching, it is that time of year when most people transition from their winter to spring wardrobe.

Everyone loves a fresh start at the beginning of a season and here are some tips that should set the spring cleanout on the right track.

The first step to a successful closet and wardrobe clean out is taking out the clothes and shoes that are not worn often and separate them from the clothes that want to be kept. Then, through the clothes that were put aside, look through and try them on if needed to decide whether it is worth keep-

ing. Some things to think about when starting the clean out process includes deciding if it fits, if it is out of style, or if you still enjoy wearing it.

This system relates to the KonMari method are useful during spring cleaning because the goal of her method is to figure out which items spark interest rather than choosing the clothes to get rid of. She encourages that everyone tidies by category and not by location, which is shown to be effective because when you gather all of your clothing into one area, it is easier to see how much clothes are owned and how much you need to get rid of to clear out your closet.

This is effective because it differPhoto/EverydayCheapskate

Organizing by color or by season is a good way to set up closet space.

entiates the clothing that is not wanted, from the clothing that is seasonal and is able to be worn next year. Folding your clothes in a neat manner also frees up more space for new clothes. If the clothes you have are organized in a neat order, it allows room to keep more clothes or make room for new clothes and keeps the space less cluttered.

When thinking about what to do with the clothes that are not wanted, there are many different ways rather than just throwing them out. Donating clothes and shoes that are in good condition is a great option so the clothes are still being put to good use. Before thinking about donating, think about whether there is a younger family member or a family friend that would be interested in taking the clothes instead.

Another effective way of giving away unwanted clothes is selling them on online websites like Etsy or Poshmark. This way, the clothes will be going to someone who wants them and it is a good way to earn a little money.

When deciding whether to sell clothes online, one important step is making sure the clothes are in a good condition and to sell them at a price that is not too expensive for what the item is, so the clothes sell.

For seasonal clothing, the best way to move that from your closet is to make a storage bin to put away until next year. This is a good way to move clothes out of the closet, but still have them in case they can be worn next season. It also gives the closet more room for spring and summer clothes that are bought so it is not overflowing with winter clothes that will not be worn until the cold months.

With the extra space in your closet, it is perfect for new spring and summer clothes. Some styles to consider are flare leggings, mom jeans paired with a tank top or a graphic tee or matching workout sets, which are popular styles going into summer. This is also the perfect time of year to clear out jackets and sweatshirts from the closet to make room for t-shirts and shorts as the weather is improving.

These tips should help start the closet clean out process and make it easier to decide what do do with unwanted or seasonal clothes.

If you have clothes that are in good condition, donating, selling, or giving the clothes to a friend or family member is a good way to give the clothes to someone who wants or needs it and get another wear out of it, instead of just throwing the clothes away.

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April 2022

A&E

page 12

April 2022

“Bridgerton” revives trademark period romance The

Netflix

series

By Annie Cameron Staff Writer

“Bridgerton” first took the stage back in 2020, and after two long years, Netflix has finally released season two, picking right back up where it left off. The British romantic drama follows the wealthy and powerful families of England on their searches for love.

The first season follows the Bridgerton family, specifically Daphne Bridgerton played by Phoebe Dynevor, as she searches for a suitable husband to start a family with. Her brother, Anthony Bridgerton, played by Jonathan Bailey, sends away many of her suitors, deeming them to be unsuitable for his sister. Anthony is the “man of the house” in the absence of their father, who passed during their childhood. Anthony puts it upon himself to protect his seven siblings, specifically Daphne on her endeavors to find a husband. When Simon, the Duke of Hastings, played by Rege-Jean Page, shows up in London, he is the seemingly perfect fit for Daphne. However, he reveals his disinterest in marriage, and grows annoyed with the advances towards him from women. Daphne is still struggling to find anyone her brother deems suitable for her, and is running out of time and options. The

returned

for

two decide to entertain a fake romance in order to get the women off Simon’s back, and encourage men to try for Daphne before she is off the market permanently. This fake romance is believable and works in favor of both parties; however, as time progresses the two realize the romance may not be as fake as they thought. When they decide their romance is no longer an act, they soon go through a series of arguments when Simon lies to Daphne, playing off her innocent mind, in order to avoid having children with her. Once she discovers his lies, she loses trust in him and struggles to be comfortable around him as their relationship becomes strictly professional as a result of Simon’s deceit.

At the end of the season, they rekindle their love for each other during a ball and decide to move on from the past and have a child together.

Season two starts, taking place a few months from where season one left off. The Bridgerton family is now occupied looking to find Eloise a husband, despite her clear opposition. The eldest Bridgerton, Anthony, decides he will not only find a suitable husband for his sister this courting season, but also finally find himself a wife. Lady Whistledown, the anonymous and infamous gossip-writer, known for exposing scandals in the town, is

a

new

season

in

March

Photo/denofgeek.com

Love

triangle

featuring

Kate

(left),

back and ready to stir the pot. An older woman, Mary Sheffeild, arrives during episode one with her two daughters, Edwina and Kate, looking to find them husbands. Edwina, the younger of the two, eagerly anticipates the courting season and the venture to find a husband.

Kate, the eldest, is uninterested in finding a husband. She is solely interested in finding her sister a respectable suitor who can help their family resolve some financial concerns. But when she meets Anthony Bridgerton, the potential for love surfaces, creating a seemingly perfect match. However, trouble arises when he continues courting her sister and reveals his plans to marry her. Kate must decide whether she

Anthony

(middle),

Edwina

(right).

wants to hide her feelings and allow the marriage to proceed, or reveal her love to Anthony, consequently ruining her sister’s marriage and their relationship. Anthony must decide whether he wants to marry for looks ans status or love.

“Bridgerton” season two continue’s the show as a perfect romantic drama with some shocking twists and turns. Season one was a hit, following Daphne Bridgerton and her season of courting.

Season two should be just as impactful, following Anthony and Elosie Bridgerton now on their quests for love. Will they be successful in finding their love matches this season, or will they remain alone until next courting season?

“The Girl From Plainville” brings local case to TV Hulu

series

recreates

Commonwealth

Photo/imdb.com

By Kristyn Dentremont Graphics and Layout Editor

According to the MerriamWebster Dictionary, the word “commit” means “to carry into action deliberately” and lists “perpetrate” as a synonym. There is a negative stigma attached to the word as it indicates there is a choice to perform an immoral action. Some would argue that 18 year-old Conrad Henri Roy III “committed” suicide, but in reality Roy’s death was ruled as manslaughter due to pressure from his girlfriend Michelle Carter. Carter lived in Plainville, Mass. and Roy lived an hour away, so their relationship consisted primarily of text messaging. Police discovered countless texts from Carter that encouraged Roy to end his life, and ultimately Roy listened when he died by suicide on July 13, 2014. Carter became the center of the story shortly after law enforcement had access to her text chain with Roy, and was charged with involuntary manslaughter in 2017. Three years later, Hollywood creators Liz Hannah and Patrick Macmanus announced their rendition of the story, titled “The Girl from Plainville,” would star Colton Ryan and Elle Fanning in a miniseries streaming on Hulu in 2022.

On March 29, the first three epi-

V.

Elle

Fanning

stars

as

Michelle

sodes dropped, giving audiences a chance to watch the story from both Roy and Carter’s points of view.

The series opens with the discovery of Roy’s—portrayed by Colton Ryan—body in a K-Mart parking lot after being intoxicated by carbon monoxide, but shortly after, there is a shift in the timeline to before Roy died. This creates some confusion about the time period in which the series is taking place, but

Carter

in

the

new

series.

it becomes apparent that the scenes will bounce back and forth from when Roy was alive as well as after his death. Formatting the series like this creates juxtaposition between the characters and their personalities, especially Fanning in her depiction of Carter. The prosecutor during her trial described Carter as a psychologically distressed teenager searching for acceptance, and Fanning portrayed this description by

Carter

case

using a softer, more timid voice and making voice-cracks to exude Carter’s insecure personality. Additionally, Fanning’s ability to change emotions within a scene shows her versatility as an actress and makes her rendition of Carter incredibly believable. For instance, Fanning sobs at Roy’s funeral but immediately stops and is eerily happy shortly after. These contrasting emotions set a suspenseful tone for the series as the plot delves deeper into the case.

Saturated colors would contradict the eeriness of the story, so directors chose to lightly filter scenes with muted gray and yellow tones. This coloration makes the audience feel as though they are watching a documentary of the case unfold as opposed to a series recreating the story. By the same token, directors chose to place the camera at dynamic angles that make the audience feel as though they are part of the scene. For example, at the beginning of the first episode the camera zooms in to the point that it is literally inside of the truck Roy’s body was found in. Conceptually, viewers feel like they are actually seeing Roy’s body which creates a disturbing mood for the rest of the episode. As each episode is released over the next five weeks, viewers will be on the edge of their seats to watch this tragic story unfold.

page 13

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APRIL 2022

page 14

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April 2022

Sports

page 15

April 2022

A prelude to the girls varsity lacrosse season

Walpole lacrosse hopes to qualify for this season’s spring tournament

By Kathryn Maclean Sports Editor

Photo/ Twitter

The girls varsity lacrosse team looked forward to their upcoming season that began on April 7 when they faced Natick on Turco Field. Up until then, they were competing in non-league scrimmages to prepare for the regular season games that will determine if they secure a spot in the semifinals for the state tournament.

They hope to improve from last year’s successful season, in which they held a 11-3 record and advanced all the way to the sectional semi-finals where they lost to Lincoln-Sudbury. Captains Jess Tosone, Caroline Whelan and Natalie Griffin look to lead the team to practice hard, work together and keep spirits high throughout the preseason and into the regular season.

The Timberwolves played Cohasset High School on Monday, March 28, in their first scrimmage.

While the score was close, Walpole fell to the Skippers in the last few minutes of the match. Cohasset’s star midfielder, Molly Stephens, played a significant role in their fast breaks and goal scoring. She will con-

Lauren Wong leads the team in a fast-break.

tinue her lacrosse career at Brown University next year. They faced the Medfield Warriors on March 30, resulting in a tie for the two teams.

Kelly Blake and Alex Blake, Medfield’s midfielders, were a dominant force for the Warriors. They played their final scrimmage in Hingham on Friday, April 1, in which Walpole came out with a 9-4 win.

“I’m extremely excited for this upcoming season and to finish my senior year strong,” senior Brianna Fruci said. “Our team is full of amazing athletes and I have high hopes for the start of our season.”

Last year’s Bay State AllStars, seniors Griffin, Whelan, Maggie Mahoney and junior Brigid Welch received recognition for

their play-making abilities and offensive and defensive skills. They are looking forward to making their mark again this spring and setting a precedent for the school’s lacrosse program in the future.

The team has a total of four athletes that are committed to play lacrosse in college in the next few years. Fruci secured a spot to play for St. Anselm College’s women’s lacrosse at the Division II level. Tosone will play Division I lacrosse for the Bulldogs at Bryant University next year. Whelan and Welch will move on to also play Division I lacrosse

at University of Massachusetts.

“We have been practicing and training for months now,” Mahoney said. “We’re excited to finally put our work to use against Natick and take on the rest of our competition this season.”

The Boston Globe recently released its preseason rankings for high school lacrosse teams in the area. Walpole placed fourth, behind Westwood in first place, Franklin in second, and Chelmsford in third. Walpole hopes to move their way up the rankings through an undefeated season.

Photo/ Twitter

Girls

come

together

before

game

to

discuss

winning

strategies.

Kansas Jayhawks claim 2022 March Madness title Storied and unpredictable: March Madness culminates in wild fashion

By Liam McDonough Opinion Editor

After several weeks of upsets, nail-biters and classic rivalries, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tournament champion has finally been decided.

The Kansas University Jayhawks were the last team left standing in the dance after defeating the North Carolina Tar Heels by a score of 72-69. However, the final score of the championship game fails to tell the story of how unpredictable and wild the 2022 March Madness tournament really was.

The tournament kicked off on March 17, and the round of 64

gave several upsets, but none was more shocking than No. 15 St. Peter’s astounding victory over No. two Kentucky that led to the destruction of hundreds of thousands previously perfect brackets. In fact, after the round of 64, no perfect bracket was left standing. More than 20 million brackets were submitted by fans for this year’s NCAA tournament, and like any other year, they all collapsed relatively quickly.

The round of 32 was just as entertaining. Defending champion and No. one Baylor failed to make it past the second round as they suffered an overtime defeat at the hands of No. eight North Carolina and Armando Bacot, who Photo/ Instagram

The

Kansas

Jayhawks

celebrate

after

their

championship

win

on

Apr.

4.

posted 15 points and 16 rebounds.

St. Peters provided the world with another surprise, taking down No. seven Murray State in a convincing ten point victory. And in unexpected fashion, No. two Auburn fell to No. ten Miami in an 18-point rout.

The Sweet Sixteen had several clear favorites as top-seeded programs were set up with mediocre-seeded teams, but the potential upsets prevailed. Firstly, No. one Gonzaga suffered a six point loss to No. four Arkansas. Gonzaga has made it to at least the Sweet Sixteen in their last six tournaments, but have still yet to hoist the NCAA championship trophy. Secondly, one of the favorites in No. one Arizona collapsed late against No. five Houston, extending their 25-year championship drought.

Lastly, St. Peters continued their historic run by defeating No. three Purdue in a back-and-forth contest.

The Elite Eight signaled the separation of four powerhouse teams from the lesser. St. Peter’s run came to an end against North Carolina, and even while they lost, their tournament performance still deserves recognition. From Jersey City, New Jersey, most college basketball fans had never even heard of St. Peters until the first weekend of the NCAA tournament, but they were still able to defeat prominent programs, such as Kentucky and

Purdue. Several other matchups set the Final Four as No. two Duke beat No. four Arkansas in convincing fashion, No. one Kansas destroyed Miami, and No. two Villanova edged Houston by six points.

The Final Four gave fans one of the most anticipated matches in tournament history with storied rivals Duke and North Carolina set to decide a shot at the championship. While it was tight all the way through, North Carolina emerged victorious by four points, ending Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s 42-year career as the head coach of Duke. In the other matchup, Kansas was able to handily defeat Villanova by 16 points.

It was predicted that the NCAA championship game would be another close one, but it seemed to be going in a different direction from all indications after the first half. Going into halftime, the North Carolina Tar Heels held a 15 point lead over the Kansas Jayhawks.

The Tar Heels suddenly went cold though, allowing the Jayhawks to climb back into the game. Kansas forward David McCormack led the way with 15 points and ten rebounds, while point guard Christian Braun chipped in with 12 points and 12 rebounds. The Jayhawks pulled out the eventual three point victory and earned their sixth NCAA title in program history.

page 16

Walpole

The

timberwolves

By: Isabelle O’Connell Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor

The Walpole High School boys baseball team kickstarted their 2022 season on April 4 against their opponent St. John’s Prep. The boys return from a strong previous season in the Division 1 South bracket competing against some of the best teams in the state this upcoming season.

The team is hoping to use their young talent to their advantage and advance to the tournament later in the season.

The team is led by senior captains Cole Donato, Will Blakley and Luke Janowicz. Donato pitches while also playing other field positions, and will be attending Tufts University to further his baseball and academic career Photo/Isabelle O’Connell

Senior Zach Oles at bat before his base hit.

WHS Student

boys face

sections had

High School sports are an integral part of the Walpole community, yet the student section turnout has always been in flux. Some seasons there is a strong showing and other seasons there are minimal fans. Fan sections have the power to change games, never mind make them more fun. When fan sections are loud and energetic, they have the power to transfer that energy to the game and perpetuate any momentum. Fan sections also provide distraction to opposing players during intense moments like a shoot-out or foul-shot that can cost a team the loss.

a

baseball

highly

next year. Janowicz is the teams first baseman, who recently committed to Bridgewater State University for baseball and Blakely is a designated hitter.

On Monday April 4, the team competed in their first regular season game against St. John’s Prep. Although Walpole fell short of a win, the team came back after a slow start. After the first inning remained zero to zero, St. John’s Prep took the lead by three runs in the second inning. By the time the third inning came around, Walpole was now on the scoreboard with one run scored by junior Corey Kilroy off of a base hit by senior Zack Oles, but St. John’s was still up by 2 runs. Senior pitcher Cole Donato had started the game off pitching, and led the team out of the fourth inning.

With hope from coach Chris Costello, the team made it out of the inning, letting up only two runs in the fourth inning.

“This is where you have to be your best. Be your best,” Costello said.

In a remarkable turn of events, Walpole gained three runs, advancing the score to four-five in the fifth inning.

In the fifth inning, junior Nick

student

By Grace Ryan News Editor

Sports

home

compeptitive

schedule

Lencioni came to the mound, letting up no runs through the end of the game. Although the team made a strong comeback, St. John’s Prep led the score by one run to end the game making the final score five to four runs in the seventh.

opener

this

season

continue to challenge themselves with their relentless schedule. The players all have different areas of strengths that are all used when they come together as a team.

Whether it is hitting or fielding, each player has a different Photo/Isabelle O’Connell

Junior

Corey

Kilory

running

back

into

“I think the goal as a team should be to win a state championship.

Although we lost versus St. John’s, we were one swing from blowing that game wide open, and they are a highly competitive team so I think it was a good sign for the future,” Donato said.

This year, the team is playing harder competition than ever and hopes to

sections

gain

the

dugout

after

scoring

a

run.

way that they can contribute to the team. With the young talent and leadership skills the players possess, the team is looking prepared for a successful season ahead. The Walpole boys baseball team hopes to advance their season to the playoffs again this year and take advantage of the experience of a highly competitive division.

popularity

big turnouts for the winter sports playoffs

This winter season, the trend of fan sections not going to girls’ games continued. The Girl’s Basketball team was especially excited for playoffs because it would be the first time they had a fan section of more than about thirty students at the most. The Girl’s Basketball team was the only winter team to win the Bay State Championship, yet they did not have large fan sections until the playoffs. Girl’s Hockey did not get a large fan section either, yet they had a strong showing and made the playoffs.

A student section is not all about the gender of the team, it is also about whether the student body displays interest in going

Photo/Instagram

There was a St. Patrick’s Day theme for the Girl’s Basketball

April 2022

round of eight game.

Photo/Instagram

The

USA

theme

at

the

Boy’s

through conversations at school or social media platforms. Many underclassmen rely on seniors as the measure of interest for a student section because even when there are juniors or underclassmen going, students are hesitant to come unless seniors make it known that they are coming too. This must end because students should go with their friends when they want to and not based on when they think the rest of the school will go.

Fan buses should be held more often because they could get more underclassmen, as seen with the round of eight games this winter. Since underclassmen can not drive, the fan bus allows them to come to the game and to get a bigger crowd for the game. Regular season away games traditionally do not have as many fans because they are harder to get to; therefore, fan buses could get more fans for not

Hockey

round

of

eight

game.

only playoffs, but also regular season away games. Also, more students would likely come to get their money’s worth if there were packages for certain sports or certain seasons.

There does not have to be fans every game, but a few large showings would be nice for teams to feel both supported and to get used to a playoff-like environment when they have trouble hearing both teammates and coaches. The strong student section showing in the winter playoffs should continue into the spring season. Even though winter seasons are popular for sports because of the close proximity to the game, spring games can attract fans too. It is nice in the spring, so it is the perfect time to be outside anyway. Also, there is a variety of interests in the spring season whether it be softball, baseball, lacrosse or more individual sports such as track and field or tennis.