October 2021
WALPOLE HIGH SCHOOL
VOLUME XXv, ISSUE I
NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO.8
WALPOLE, MA 02081
WPS extends mask mandate until November
Massachusetts state school officials extend mask mandate for public schools By Sophia Brownsword News Editor
In August 2021, Massachusetts education officials announced that public school students going back to school would be wearing masks until at least Oct. 1. If a school’s vaccinated population had reached 80% by then, they would have the option to lift the mask mandate. As of Sept. 29, this mandate was extended until Nov. 1. However, if schools have reached 80% of vaccinated students after Oct. 1, schools are now able to send an attestation form in the Mass. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as early as Oct. 15. This attestation form would then hopefully be approved by the department, and vaccinated staff, as well as students, would be permitted to take off their masks. Mass. state school officials have also come out saying that, ultimately, schools and districts have the choice to decide whether or not they want students to go unmasked. As the vaccination rates around the
state and even the nation have gone up, COVID-19 cases and deaths have gone down significantly. Massachusetts state government as well as the federal government ideally want a large majority of the population vaccinated in order for students to attend schools without their masks. “For young people, getting vaccinated right away is the best way back to the things they love,” the White House said in August of 2021, before the start of the new school year. As of the week of Sept. 12, Walpole High School reached 69.7% of vaccinated students. On Aug. 30 and Sept. 20, Walpole High held mobile vaccine clinics in the media center, which helped boost percentages of vaccinated students. As of Sept. 29, the number has gone up to 72.5%. As of Sept. 25, 5.5% of students had received one dosage of the vaccine, and if they were to get the second dosage the total vaccination rate would reach 78%. “However, a high percentage of this population are overdue for their second vaccination,” Superintendent
Photo/ Sophia Brownsword
Students are required to wear masks in the building at all times, except for when eating.
Dr. Bridget Gough said at the school committee meeting on Sept. 30. The percentage of vaccinated students at Walpole High only accounts for students that are fully vaccinated, meaning they have received both shots. Students who only have one shot are not considered in this percentage. If WHS reaches the 80% mark, town administration has not yet come to the decision about what guidelines will be for masks inside of the school, and what the exact protocol will be. There will be an-
other school committee meeting on Oct. 28, before the Nov. 1 guideline provided by the state, where they will further discuss the issue. Going forward, the more people that get vaccinated in not only Walpole High, but the entire district, will move Walpole closer towards the goal of going maskfree. As COVID-19 cases decline with the rate of vaccination going up, masks should hopefully no longer be necessary for students to stay safe at school, as long as the vaccinated population has reached 80%.
Madison Clark starts self defense club at WHS
WHS junior hopes to promote self-desense and safety in the community Photo/ Sophia Brownsword
Clark
presents
her
message
at
her
By Grace Ryan News Editor The Women’s Self Defense Club is a new club this year started by junior Madison Clark. The club aims to teach girls self defense tools to make them feel more comfortable about potentially uncomfortable or dangerous situations. Clark took efforts last year to start this club after hearing countless local news stories about women being assaulted while innocently going through their everyday tasks. She was
first
meeting
in
the
health
room.
driven even further by conversations with her friends about feeling uncomfortable around men. These conversations and stories prompted Clark to realize the lack of knowledge of how to deal with potential confrontations and she was ready to take action. “I thought that the school should have a program that girls can participate in to learn about safety and self-defense. I was shocked to see that nothing has been provided, so I started a program myself to help girls defend themselves against predators and to help other women in
the community as well,” Clark said. She hopes to volunteer at local women Clark jumped to action shelters as well as focusing their efforts and continued to have conversations to help women in Boston. Specifically, with her friends to spread the word Clark is planning to take a self defense and calculate their interests. She suc- course with the police and even host a cessfully utilized social media, both course for the community in the future. Snapchat and Instagram, to optimize “I am really looking forward getting members. Clark says that fresh- to a great year, and we are excited to man orientation was an extra boost start things off ! I really hope that this and they now have 89 members and club can continue on for many decades counting. Clark is planning on form- after I have graduated,” Clark said. ing an executive board within the next few meetings. The club does not have scheduled meetings yet but they plan to meet a couple times a month to plan activities and bring awareness. “The purpose of the Women’s Self-Defense and Safety club is to learn physical skills to defend ourselves against predators, identify and leave dangerous situations, and educate others on women’s safety,” said Clark. Additionally, she hopes to extend her efforts into the community and give them resources on safety tips and techniques. Clark recognizes that men should also be included in this discussion in order extinguish the stigma of assault and rape being a “women’s issue.” To push these efforts, Clark is planning many activities for this year including assemblies at not only the high Graphic/ WHS Safety Defense Club WALPOLESTUDENTMEDIANETWORK school, but also at the middle schools.
NEWS
page 2
the
OCTOBER 2021
Ridolfi joins math department
SEARCHLIGHT The new department head begins his first year at WHS By Maggie Mahoney Assistant Sports Editor
Editorial Board Editors-in-Chief Cate Stanton Katie Gillis 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
Socials @whssearchlight
@whssearchlight
Working in a new district in the middle of a pandemic can be stressful enough for an educator; however, Walpole High’s newest math department head, Jonathan Ridolfi, takes this a step further by stepping up into a leadership position. Despite these changes, Ridolfi feels ready to take on the challenge. “This is my 16th year with my own classroom,” Ridolfi said. “My last job was as a department chair at Randolph high school, but that was non-evaluatory, so this was a great next step in my career.” For Ridolfi, Walpole was the best choice because his role as department head extends beyond the high school to the middle school level as well. He finds this vertical alignment allows the schools to work better together to improve math instruction. His new job also allows him to analyze data and observe instruction, so he can have a greater impact on the improvement of student learning. “What really spoke to me was that when I came to Walpole, there were 14 or 15 people in the interview room who all wanted this job,” Ridolfi said. “This just told me
Photo/ Maggie Mahoney
Ridofli teaches AP Calculus at WHS in addition to leading the math department.
that there is real investment here in the students and who they bring in to be a part of the experience, and that’s the kind of team I want to be on.” Still new to the school, Ridolfi enjoys meeting all of the teachers and watching how well they work together. He feels encouraged by the work he has seen in the department so far, and he works with individual teachers to create new goals as well. “Overall, I would like to improve the learning experience for all students and obviously the achievement, and I would like to see more students challenging themselves in high level classes,” Ridolfi said. “But for right now, I do not want to get too specific in my goals as I
am still taking everything in, and I want to make sure we work towards what is best for the students.” Aside from his responsibilities as department head, Ridolfi also teaches AP Calculus BC classes — the highest level math course available at the high school. Although he only has two classes, teaching is one of his favorite parts of his job. “I love working with students and seeing them grow, not only as math students but as people as well,” Ridolfi said. “I like to share some of the life lessons I have learned and silly mistakes I have made, and my favorite part is when students come back after they graduate and say thank you because I can see I made a real change.”
Walpole implements Test and Stay
Close contact students allowed to stay in school By Farrell Raeke Social Media Director Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, many schools have been temporarily closed, forcing their students to learn from home instead of going to school in person. Virtual learning started to become the “new normal” and students adapted to the idea of remote learning rather than in person learning. Finally, in April 2021, Massachusetts schools allowed students to go back full time, with multiple restrictions put in place to keep the students and staff safe. As the schools return to a more normal schedule this year, administration has put in place the Test and Stay option for students. Test and Stay is focused on students who are asymptomatic, but have been exposed
to someone that tested positive. This new protocol will be a safe alternative for students who do not have to quarantine at home, but continue their learning in the classrooms. When students first went back to school full-time last year, there were many cases where students had to miss school because they were identified as a close contact with someone who tested positive and were required to quarantine. Having to quarantine due to being a close contact created hardships for families and overall disrupted the student’s learning because they had to switch from inperson learning to remote learning on short notice. As schools begin to return to normal this year, this Test and Stay option will help students go to school without having to stress about quarantining and having
Photo/ Farrell Raeke
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 thesearchlight@walpole.k12.ma.us a letter of 200 words or less. The self-administered tests allow students to stay in school following a COVID-19 exposure.
to continue with virtual learning. Students who have been named a close contact and are eligible for Test and Stay will take a BinaxNOW rapid COVID-19 test, which gives the results in about 15 minutes. These tests are available at CVS stores and are an easy process that is self- administered for students and they can do it in the comfort of their own home. Students will need to be tested for five days and test negative every day. Not all students, however, are required to take a test. The Walpole Public Schools Test and Stay Program Protocol said, “individuals who are asymptomatic and fully vaccinated are exempt from testing and quarantine response protocols,” which will allow students to continue their education in person. Even though students can stay in school, they are still required to watch their symptoms and if they have any, they must start their quarantine immediately. This option for students will make going to school during a pandemic easier because students now know that there is an option to stay in school despite being named a close contact. Especially during their high school years, this program does the important job of helping students stay in school instead of being forced to stay at home and continue their education by learning through a computer screen.
OPINION
page 3
OCTOBER 2021
Walpole should diversify English curriculum Gaining
diverse
By Katie Gillis Editor-in-Chief Throughout twelve years of school, it is safe to say that students read an abundance of literature. These stories have presented a variety of different ideas and themes — “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” represents mental illness, “Romeo and Juliet” displays romance and Holden Caulfield shows us loneliness and angst in “Catcher in the Rye.” While these books contain various perspectives, that is about the extent of the diversity in them. They are all written by white men, centralized around white characters. Now, there is no doubt that the English Department in Walpole has made great strides with its diversity within the last few years, with the introduction of more books written by black authors such as “Just Mercy,” “The Other Wes Moore” and “Raisin in the Sun.” While these books are undoubtedly important for students to read, they still lack diversity, because they are all about racism and oppression. The white protagonists in white
perspective
allows
texts are seen as multidimensional, because they receive more complex storylines. The characters of color, however, are limited to their struggles in a racist society. If students are only taught that people of color are oppressed, this dehumanizes them and confines them to this role. Walpole High School English teacher Bailey Tighe has taken numerous courses for educators on how to address racial equity and avoid implicit biases within the classroom. Since then, she has made great efforts to incorporate diversity into her classroom, whether that be through podcasts, articles, short stories, books or simply just having conversations with her students. “We have to teach [students] that we’re all humans, and we all have this human experience, so even if this person doesn’t look like me or doesn’t have the same dialect as me or prioritize the same things as me, our experiences are similar,” Tighe said. By teaching students that the experiences of people of color are similar to those of white people, we are helping to develop their empathy and open-minded-
students
to
develop
empathy
Photo/ Katie Gillis
Books
like
“1984”
and
“Animal
Farm”
ness. While it may not seem like it, Walpole is a diverse place, and our curriculum should reflect that. “I think it is extremely important to have diversity in our English curriculum, not only for the more cliché answer of widening perspectives,” senior Maggie Singer said. “ I think I would learn more about how deep systematic issues really permeate into the everyday thoughts and actions of oppressed peoples with the addition of more diversity education in schools.”
are
popular
at
Walpole
High.
Tighe has used her knowledge to educate other teachers on the best ways to be more diverse in the classroom, but as Walpole High’s English Department is entirely white, this can be difficult for them to grasp. “Everyone wants to do better and recognizes where we’re not being successful, but having conversations about race, gender and sexuality is something that a lot of white people do not have the skill set to address,” Tighe said.
P.E. mandate prevents exploration of electives
Giving students freedom to select their classes makes school more enjoyable By Liam McDonough Opinion Editor One of the many perks of high school is the freedom to choose a wide variety of classes. Walpole High School administration allows for freshman students to take two electives, and gain more room to personalize their schedules as they progress through high school. However, a rule created 21 years ago, states that all Massachusetts
K-12 students must take gym for a full four years. This was created after physical activity among Massachusetts students dropped from 80% to 61% over six years, per the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. This mandate may feel as if it can only benefit students in terms of getting in better shape, but many students see it as an obstacle in scheduling, especially those who already participate in school sports.
For example, those who take part in a fall sport are still required to take gym, even though they get several hours of physical activity each day at practice. To these students, it makes physical education practically worthless. In the case of a studentathlete trying to take a half year class that they are actually interested in, they might not be able to because they are required to take gym every single year of their high school career. Students who already get
Photo/ Sophia Brownsword
Juniors
and
seniors
are
seen
warming
up
before
their
physical
education
class.
multiple hours of exercise per day are wasting more time by doing activities that have no benefit to them. For students who already participate in athletic activities, gym serves as a roadblock in their learning. The argument can be made, however, to justify gym class for those who do not participate in a school sport. The CDC recommends that kids aged six to 17 should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. At such a young age, it is essential to maintain strong physical health while children are still growing. If students are unable to get this physical activity, then they could face a range of problems down the line. To ensure that kids who do not participate in a school sport maintain good physical health, they should be required to take gym class. Electives give the opportunity for students to choose what they learn and can provide students with a better overall high school experience. Physical Education not only takes up space for a half year elective, but can also block someone from taking a full year elective. Student athletes already meet the exercise requirement by practicing up to three hours per day, so why should it be essential for them to take a physical education class? In the end, it is more important to have the opportunity to take the electives that will better prepare you later on in life and allow for greater enjoyment in school.
page 6
OCTOBER 2021
Lifestyle
Unique Halloween costumes for 2021 This spooky season, break the mold with one of these four costumes By Isabelle O’Connell Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor For all the Halloween lovers out there, it is finally time- the spooky season has come around yet again. With the season approaching Generation Z has begun to stray away from the typical ghost or vampire costume in exchange for something more creative. If you are at a loss for something original, here are some clever costume ideas. Because Olivia Rodrigo is such a rising artist, her Good 4 U music video outfit will be the go to look for young teens. For this costume, teens would need to buy or make a blue, black, and white cheerleading outfit, black long arm gloves, and black shoes. Although this look seems simple, execution is key. Wearing two barrettes with straight, long hair are the only accessories that are needed to complete the look. Rodrigo is a rising icon whose fashion is one of her main focal points. Group costumes are always a struggle for big friend groups, but not anymore. As one of the most
Graphic/Isabelle O’Connell
Unique costumes such as Olivia Rodrigo are set to be popular this Halloween.
famous pop culture figures, Barbie has always had many jobs and a vast wardrobe. A fun and innovative idea this Halloween would be to utilize all of Barbie’s wardrobe changes. A group of any size could could dress up as different Barbies. Some examples include pilot Barbie, workout Barbie, Camouflage Barbie and original Barbie. Adding matching blonde wigs to com-
pliment the outfit is a great way to tie your group costume together. If you have a partner or friend to dress up with, consider a themed couples costumes that is both clever and cute. One option is a mermaid and sailor look, one that is often overlooked but can be fun and affordable with the right clothing items. For this costume, you will need metallic dark green
pants or a skirt with a top that could be self decorated with fishnets and shells. To accessorize, one could put some a fake starfish in the hair and add lots of highlighter and colorful makeup to the face. If you are more ambitious with your makeup skills, try holding fishnet tights over your face and applying eyeshadow on top to achieve a scale effect on the skin. For the sailor, all one will need is a striped shirt and a sailor’s hat to achieve a nautical look. Adding sunglasses is another cheap and easy way to improve the look by giving it a timeless, classic feel. If you want to add a nostalgia factor to your costume, consider dressing up as Shark Boy and Lava Girl. This is a costume that would need a bit more creativity in order to accurately recreate the characters’ outfits. For Lava Girl, dress in all pink with a neon wig. To achieve Shark Boy’s look, dress in a dark blue outfit with shark accessories. Whether you are going out solo, in a pair, or with all of your friends, ditch the witch hats and cat ears and try a fun pop culture costume.
Natural ways to prepare for flu season As the winter approaches, keep the cold and flu at bay with these tips By Kristyn Dentremont Graphics Editor The fall and winter months are filled with opportunities for school sporting events and holiday celebrations. However, there is an annual dark cloud that looms over these events and threatens to ruin this time of the year: the flu. Colder
the opportunity or desire to get a flu shot, either. Ultimately, the flu will strike, but there are several natural ways to prepare and prevent it, too. According to WedMD, elderberries are considered one of the world’s most “healing plants'' because of the various antioxidants and vitamins they envelop. While this floral berry is an immune-
an automatic immune booster. One of the most popular compliments to elderberry syrup is ginger and turmeric tea because the spicy flavors offset the unpleasantness of this floral flu-fighter. In fact, ginger and turmeric tea contain s natural anti-inflammatory properties that help block the growth of viruses that cause the flu as well. Graphic/ Kristyn Dentremont
Enjoy
a
cup
of
temperatures drive people to gather indoors, but confined spaces ultimately lead to a higher and faster spread of germs. Being that mask mandates for COVID-19 have loosened in recent months, flu infection rates are increasing and will continue to progress throughout the winter. Additionally, not everyone has
tea
to
enjoy
a
flu-free
booster, it requires an advanced palate due to its bitter blackberry and perfume-like aftertaste. Thankfully, elderberry supplements and subtly-flavored syrups are offered at health food stores such as GNC and Whole Foods. Just one pill each morning or pouring elderberry syrup into any drink is
season
this
winter.
For those who have a sensitive palate, mixing smaller portions of cooked or candied ginger into Greek yogurt provides an immune system boost without the overwhelming taste of ginger. Greek yogurt is great for the gut as it contains probiotics that, according to Medical News Today,
“coat the stomach” and make the stomach more resistant to flu viruses. It can be as simple as an addition of fruit and granola, it can be incorporated into a smoothie, or folded into a sweet or savory dip. At your next holiday party, try incorporating some of these healthy ingredients, like Greek yogurt, in your food to give everyone an extra immune boost! Besides food, fitness is another option that can help prevent the flu, too. Being indoors because of inclimate weather can limit options for exercise in New England, but one of the easiest indoor activities is cardio. Even with limited space, doing a set of burpees and jumping jacks can help the flow of oxygen in the body Additionally, yoga, believe it or not, is helpful to an immune system preparing for the flu season. Yoga is a spiritual connection to the human that allows both the mind and body to relax and move in different body contortions. Although it is not as physically strenuous, the mental break and muscle relaxation is healthy for building the immune system in time for flu season. Another option if you are not as flexible but still into fitness is walking and running. Getting fresh air is one of the simplest ways to gain lung endurance and strengthen your respiration to fight colds and the flu. These superfoods and exercises offer natural protection against the flu, so give it a try to protect yourself and others in the community!
A&E
page 7
OCTOBER 2021
The Searchlight staff’s 2021 fall favorites The
staff ’s
favorite
Photo/ IMDb.com
“The Blind Side” is based on a true story.
By Cate Stanton Editor-in-Chief As the weather gets cooler, it is the perfect time to bundle up inside with your favorite form of entertainment. Here are some of the Searchlight Staff ’s favorite movies, books, tv shows, and music albums! Movies “The Blind Side” follows the story of Michael Oher, a homeless teen taken in by one of the football coaches at his high school. “It’s heartwarming and makes me cry every time.” -Soph Brownsword “Erin Brokovich”: Based on a true story, Julia Roberts plays the role of the main character “showing how womens’ appearances does not dictate their brains, determination and ability to pro-
movies,
books,
voke change” -Kathryn Maclean “Dead Poets Society” demonstrates a new English teacher at an all-boys private school, who uses non-traditional methods to teach students English, as well as many life lessons. “I’m really passionate about English, and this movie encompasses all of the ideals that surround English, specifically how English is a very interpretive and insightful subject. The teacher, played by Robin Williams, portrays a role that reminds me of my sophomore year English teacher, too.” -Kristyn Dentremont Books: “Catcher in the Rye”: A favorite at Walpole High, “the Catcher in the Rye is a very simple book at its surface, but when you really analyze it, it uncovers the universal message on how childhood is tempoPhoto/ Goodreads.com
“The Hate You Give” exhibits discrimination.
TV
shows
Photo/ Rottentomatoes.com
“Gilmore Girls“
is a popular drama.
rary and the adult life is harsh and unforgiving” -Liam McDonough “The Hate You Give”: Inspired by the Black Lives Matter Movement, this book follows a 16-yearold girl who witnesses her best friend get shot and killed by a police officer. “It perfectly describes the life of those who struggle everyday because of discrimination and violence.” -Isabelle O’Connell TV Shows: “Gilmore Girls” displays the relationship between a single mother, Lorelai Gilmore, and her daughter Rory growing up in their small town where everyone knows each other. “I become obsessed with it every fall because it is the perfect show to watch on a nice fall weekend” -Katie Gillis “Madam Secretary”: When a CIA analyst gets appointed as Secretary of State, the series follows main
and
albums
character Elizabeth McCord with funny commentary as well as realistic political ideas. “My family and I watched this over quarantine and it is just so funny and entertaining. It has a perfect mix of continuing a story line but also making each episode unique.” -Grace Ryan Albums “Tickets to My Downfall” by Machine Gun Kelly “The songs are upbeat and fun to listen to in the car” -Farrell Raeke “Kids See Ghosts” by Kid Cudi and Kanye West “The album is a collaboration between two of my favorite artists. It’s only like seven songs so there’s no filler and all of the songs are so well-produced and basically perfect” -Toby Moses “Red” by Taylor Swift “Every album by Taylor is fantastic but Red has so many of her best songs” -Annie Cameron Photo/ Billboard.com
Taylor Swift is re-releasing “Red” Nov. 12.
Musical “Dear Evan Hansen” succeeds as film The Broadway musical’s popularity carries over to the box office By Annie Cameron Staff Writer The film re-creation of the Broadway play, “Dear Evan Hansen”, was released Sept. 24. The story originally debuted on Broadway in December of 2016 and immediately became a fan favorite. Ben Platt, who starred as Evan Hansen in the original show, has returned for the movie. In this popular coming-ofage story Evan is a socially-anxious high school student looking to fit in and make friends. His therapist recommends that he writes himself letters in third person to boost his confidence. However, this takes a turn when one of his letters lands in the hands of another student, Connor, who later commits suicide. After Connor’s death his parents find the letter, and everyone believes he had been best friends with Evan because it seemed like Connor had written the letter to Evan. Connor’s parents are grateful and at peace believing he and Evan had been best friends, prior to Connor’s death. Evan does not know how to tell the grieving parents who the letter is truly from, so he lies. Evan immediately becomes closer with the family, and starts developing a close relationship with Connor’s
Photo/ Dearevanhansen.com
“Dear
Evan
Hansen”
presents
sister, Zoe, played by actress Kaitlyn Dever, who he had liked for a while. Evan is now being showered with love and affection from everyone, something he had been searching for. Evan is finally receiving the validation and popularity he so desperately wanted, but at what cost? As Evan continues accepting the fame and attention from everyone, his conscience starts taking the fall. He must choose if he comes clean about what the letter is truly from and suffer the consequences, or if he continues to let this lie grow forever.
the
reality
of
mental
Viewers can follow along with Evan, as a simple misunderstanding changes his life, sending him on his journey of gaining confidence, and learning to become himself. Fans of the original Broadway show have been upset with the choice to have Ben Platt play Evan Hansen in the film too. At the time of the original Broadway play, Platt was 23 years old, playing the role of a high school teenager. Now, in the new film release Platt is 28 years old still trying to play the role of a high school teen. Some viewers be-
health
in
high
school.
lieve they should have cast someone younger to fit the part better, whereas others appreciate the nostalgic element of having Platt play the same part five years later. Overall, “Dear Evan Hansen” is a touching story and an interesting comparison to the Broadway show. Will Evan come clean about what the letter is truly from, or will he continue to let the lie fester and ignore his conscience? Follow along with Evan on his journey to discover himself, and navigate his way through high school.
Sports
page 8
OCTOBER 2021
Porkers claim New England’s leading title
Walpole field hockey team remains undefeated in the 2021 Bay State Conference By Kathryn Maclean Sports Editor Walpole High School’s field hockey team has been named first place out of all New England teams. Walpole’s 8-0 record maintains their lead over Philip’s Academy and Masconomet Regional High School, who are in second and third place. The powerhouse team has a total of 12 state titles, dominating the Bay State Conference. After a 4-0 win over Cohasset High School, and a 4-1 win against Central Catholic High School, Walpole remains undefeated this season. The Porkers last recorded loss in the regular season was three years ago. Their only recent loss took place in a non-league match against Moses Brown. “Our team has an all-around strong foundation,” captain Caroline Whelan said. “We are athletic both offensively and defensively. We can explode on our offense and create fast breaks but are also able to hustle back and stop the ball on defense. I think we all work really well together and are able to read the next play before it even happens. We
Photo/ Brian Kelly
Porkers
celebrate
their
1-0
win
can almost read each other’s minds.” Whelan plays a key role in the Porker’s extensive winning streak, acting as one of the senior captains, as well the team’s top scorer. She attributes Walpole’s success largely to their coach, Jen Quinn, who she describes as being influ-
over
Franklin
on
Oct.
11.
ential and a crucial figure in enabling the team to play to their highest potential. In her 14th year of coaching, head coach Quinn has led the Porkers to state playoffs for the majority of the seasons throughout her reign. Serving as North Attleboro’s coach
until 2007, Quinn has years of experience in team leading. She runs intense practices but keeps the team in high spirits with fun activities and laughter. “Our underclassmen have really blown us away this season too,” Captain Jess Tosone said. “Kerin Birch, Katie Colleran, and Caitlyn Naughton have had a huge positive impact on the team with their attributes, like their speed, stick skills, as well as their defensive stops. The under and upperclassmen have bonded well this season, and we are looking forward to taking on our tougher teams in the near future.” The Porkers have been practicing since late summer, preparing themselves for their intense schedule of two or three games a week. They are striving to improve from last season, in which they went undefeated all season and lost in the semi-finals of playoffs. “Our goal is to stay undefeated,” Tosone said. “We are proud of our leading title but we need to continue practicing to the best of our ability to beat the rest of our opponents and make it to the playoffs.”
Meet the mascot: The new face of Walpole Andrew
Fowkes
By Toby Moses Staff Writer
Until this year, Walpole High School has never had a mascot since its founding in 1870. After the name change from the Rebels to the Timberwolves that took place last year, school staff found it appropriate to finally get a mascot that could dress up for sporting events and excite the crowd.
takes
on
the
The new mascot has been present at games this year, with multiple different students playing the role. Senior Andrew Fowkes serves as the new face of Walpole High School as the Timberwolves mascot. For the first football home game against Wellesley, Fowkes put the blue and white timberwolf costume on and encouraged Walpole fans to demonstrate community and school spirit this season.
Photo/ Twitter
role
of
the
Timberwolves
How did you come about becoming the mascot? Did a teacher ask you or another faculty member?
mascot
Graphic/ Stephen Imbusch
“One of my friends Will Blakley reached out to me at first and I was considering it, but then Coach Dowd asked if I would do it and I thought why not.“ Why cide
to
did be
you dethe mascot?
“I wanted to try something different for senior year, and I thought that this opportunity was a good one.” Would it again
you consider in the future?
“Yes, but I would do it on a cooler night because it was pretty hot inside the costume. However, it made people smile and I still had a blast.” Did the mascot work to excite the student section during the game? “I tried, and at times it worked. The student section was not too loud though, probably because we were losing the game at the time.” Does the mascot represent Walpole well? Why or Why not? “Yes, I think it does because of the new name change. With the Timberwolves being the new name for Walpole sports, the mascot represents the teams and the town well.”
Fowkes donned the Timberwolves costume for the first home football game against Wellseley.
The addition of a mascot marks a huge change for Walpole sports, as it helps boost pride
WHS debuted its new mascot this year.
in the student body about the new Timberwolves name. Hopefully, the mascot will bring a greater sense of school spirit to the home games for Walpole this season. Many students have been willing to play the role, showing the new mascot’s support from the fans. Through a period of change after the long-lasting previous name for Walpole sports, the mascot acts as a source of excitement for the students. For students that are not in support of the new name, the mascot could help swing their opinion with its presence at events. Although school has been very different the past year and a half due to COVID-19, the return of Walpole sports being open to the public brings a sense of normalcy to the student body. Walpole students have been as excited as ever for the games thus far. With the addition of the Timberwolves mascot, students should be as passionate as ever and excited for the longawaited return of home games.