WHS celebrates class of 2025’s graduation
Walpole community comes together for 151st annual graduation
By Maeve O'Connor & Joe Curran Lifestyle Editor & Sports Editor
Walpole High School held its 151st annual commencement ceremony on June 1, honoring the graduating class of 2025. Families, faculty and members of the Walpole community gathered to celebrate the accomplishments, growth and futures of this year's graduates.
The event featured two student speakers, seniors Cole Bowden and Nirjara Akkole, whose speeches included humorous anecdotes, reflections on their time at WHS and inspiration for the future. Bodwen opened by thanking the administration, faculty, staff and families who supported throughout their high school experience.
He highlighted various accomplishments of the class of 2025, pointing to the academic honor rolls, extracurricular achievements and athletic recognition that now fill the school's trophy cases and gymnasium walls.
“If you can do great things in the small town of Walpole, Massachusetts, you
can succeed where the future takes you,” Bowden said.
He closed his speech by encouraging his classmates to pursue their best with integrity and confidence.
Akkole followed with a speech, metaphorically comparing the process of packing for college and sorting belongings to the process of growing up and discovering one's identity.
“Labels are easy. They are sticky and inaccurate,” Akkole said.
She reflected on how high school offen assigns both literal and metaphorical labels, such as “the smart one,” “the troublemaker,” and “the one
who’s always late.” However, she emphasized that these labels fail to capture the full complexity of who students are becoming.
“We are walking stories still being written,” Akkole said.
She encouraged her peers to leave space for reinvention and uncertainty, rather than forcing themselves to fit into neatly defined roles.
“Not everything about who we are can or should be labeled,” Akkole said. “Leave just a little room in your boxes for things that don't make sense, for growth, for reinvention and for the parts of us that don't neatly fit under a Sharpie label.”
In addition to the student speakers, the ceremony honored a number of awards to students. Many received recognition for the Greatest Gains Award recipients, students who demonstrated exceptional academic growth and perseverance during their time at WHS. Bhakti Bell and Bowden received the Superintendent Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement and subject specific awards were presented in English, Latin, Spanish, math, music,science, social studies, physical education and technology. Dozens of students were recognized for completing the STEM Academy and Work Study programs, as well as for earning the Massachusetts Seal of Biliteract in languages including Spanish, Hindi, Tamil, Arabic and Turkish. As assistant principals Lee Tobey and Kristina Kelleher-Bianchi handed out each student's diploma on Turco Memorial Field, the class of 2025 turned their tassels and stepped into the future, leaving behind not only memories but a lasting legacy at WHS.
NHS hosts induction ceremony for students Walpole High School recognizes student leaders
By Olivia Fezzie & Chloe O'Corcora Staff Writers
The National Honors Society (NHS) is a nationwide organization across high schools that recognizes students with impressive academic achievements. This 104-year-old institution appreciates young scholars who go above and beyond to display the core values of the Society (service, leadership, scholarship, and character), while giving students the tools they need to expand their intellectuality. This year, Walpole’s induction for incoming upperclassman students, was held on Tuesday, May 20th at 7 p.m. in the Walpole High School auditorium.
“NHS benefits WHS by promoting a culture of academic excellence, leadership, service, and character, which are the four pillars of the Soci-
ety,” principal Stephen Imbusch said. “It provides recognition for high-achieving students and motivates them to continue striving for excellence.”
Basic requirements to be eligible for NHS include: being either a junior or senior, maintaining a GPA of 3.65 or higher, completing the required amount of community service and leadership hours, and most importantly understanding what it takes to be and become a member. Students then fill out a “student profile.” From this, the Faculty Council will assess the information on the student more deeply.
“Your reputation is formed by what others see,” Imbusch said in his speech.
Imbusch began with a speech about how the core values affect and represent WHS. He explained how one's character and habits eventually shape their future and determine what
the rest of their life looks like. WHS math teacher, Andrew Yurgold, was appointed by the WHS graduating seniors to lead the NHS pledge in which students repeat the pledge after him.
Being a member in this society can promote students' growth. By being involved in community service and academic experiences that come with the society, students have a higher rate of getting into uni-
versity. NHS is a commitment that is more than just a community, but a combination of leadership, community service, along with dedication to yourself and school. Students who are once members of the society continue to carry out these morals for the rest of their lives. The lessons and morals that the society provides and encourages a student with will resonate with them for the rest of their life.
Walpole upperclassmen recieving their induction to the NHS.
Photo/Maeve Connors
Senoir Nirjara Akkole delivered one of the graduation speeches.
Photo/Maeve O'Connor
Starting school earlier harms students and staff
Later school start times benefits academic performance and overall health
By McKenna Scott Staff Writer
Beginning in the 20252026 school year, Walpole High School will start and end five minutes earlier than in previous years. With this change, the first bell will ring at 7:20 a.m. and the dismissal bell will ring at 2 p.m. The goal for this change is to allow the buses to effectively transport students to the high school, middle school and elementary schools in a timely manner and reduce delays in the transportation system, although some have called out the fact that a five minute chane will not do much for this.
Throughout the past school year, multiple buses have struggled getting students to school on time, resulting in many elementary school students waiting for their bus for up to 30 minutes at a time. These delays have caused disruptions to learning and stress for both students and their families. By starting the high school five minutes earlier, this allows extra time for the buses to pick up elementary school students on time.
caring for younger siblings in the morning, stepping into a parental role when their guardians are at work. An earlier start time can disrupt these routines, potentially throwing off an entire family’s schedule and adding stress to students already balancing school and home responsibilities.
Some students and staff members are frustrated about the change, believing that the earlier start time adds an additional stress in the morning. Both staff and students agree it will be difficult to adjust sleep schedules and wake up earlier. Some students also take on the responsibility of
“I can barely make it to school on time on normal days, those five minutes make a big difference in the morning,” an anonymous WHS freshman said.
Later school start times have been proven to be beneficial for students’ health and academic performance. In a recent study by the American Psychological Association, research found that students that attended schools that started between 8:30 a.m. and 8:59 a.m had more positive moods and more beneficial developmental outcomes in their mental and physical health.
Similarly, the study found that later start times correspond to more consistent school attendance, more active participation in class, better grades, and fewer car accidents than schools with earlier start times.
Additionally, many teachers also have responsibilities in the morning that will be complicated by a change in schedule. Teachers have to arrive at school even earlier than students due to
their contracted schedule, meaning that teachers now have to arrive at school at 7:10 a.m. For teachers who are commuting from far away or have childcare tasks in the morning, even a minor change to the schedule is disruptive to their morning routines
Many staff at WHS have young kids, and most daycare facilities are not open until 7 a.m., leaving a very short amount of time for teachers to commute to work. This could lead to increased stress and potential tardiness among staff members, impacting the overall flow of the day.
While this change may be disruptive to the schedules of families and staff members, school administrators hope that the adjustment will be more beneficial overall to the district.
“I would have hoped we would be going the other way— starting later, not earlier—so I am not thrilled about this change,” principal Stephen Imbusch said. “However, we must do what is in the best interest of the district as a whole, and we cannot have small kids waiting for buses for 30 minutes in the afternoon.”
While adjusting the schedule by five minutes may not be drastic, it is crucial that we consider these factors before implementing changes to school schedules.
Intellectual stimulation over the summer is crucial Tips on stimulating your brain over school recess
By Maeve Connors Staff Writer
Summer vacation may seem like a brain break from school, tests, and learning, that is beneficial, and finally allows your mind to relax from academic pressure. But if you are not challenging or essentialy exercising your mind enough over the summer it could create risk for the future state of your mind. How can taking a break be damaging to your brain?
Allowing your mind to take a break is vital due to the amount of stress relief that is associated with it, while simultaneously improving attention skills. However, if your brain is not active at all over summer vacation that could lead to negative side effects that will hinder you once you return to school.
Many do not realize the importance of intellectual stimulation. Before you are able to understand the most beneficial ways to stay intellectually stimulated and why it is needed to keep challenging your brain, you need to understand the definition of intellectual stimulation. Intellectual engagement refers
to the challenging of your brain through activities; the activities which challenge your brain, strengthening its creative, educational skills and memory. There are games and brain training and social activities you can do. Common tasks you may have done before include puzzles, attending language building class and art related activities, all of which are considered intellectual stimulation and strengthen your brain. Summer recess from school is roughly two to three months long. During the time period of warmer weather, it is
common for students to relax at the beach, watch TV, and hang out with friends. While the break is necessary, if your brain is not kept stimulated intellectually at all over long periods of time, you will likely suffer negative effects including decline in memory, mental health and focus. Downsides of not maintaining constant exercise of the brain can include decline in memory, struggle with concentration and in some cases lead to depression and anxiety. Many students do not comprehend the importance of balancing a fun sum-
mer break while still maintaining a positive mental enrichment. During the 180 day school year, students are constantly keeping their brains stimulated during school hours. Keeping yourself in an intellectually stimulated state is beneficial to maintain your brain functioning. Comparatively, keeping your brain overstimulated can cause negative effects. If you are regularly overworking your brain, you may begin to feel anxious or burnt out with exhaustion because your brain is having difficulty processing high levels of information in a short amount of time. However, if you are receiving a lack of stimulation, you will presumably begin to experience some negative effects like loss of conjunctive functioning. Finding games or activities that keep your brain stimulated whilst still having fun is very important over summer break. Without keeping your brain stimulated the switch from summer break to school can be difficul, so keeping your mind sharp and engaged over the summer months will mean you are more prepared for the following school year and more healthy overall.
Changing start time for students comes with many negative effects.
Keeping your brain intellectually stimulated has many benefits.
Photo/Maeve Connors
Graphic/ The Searchlight
The Electoral College needs to be modernized Swing states should not determine U.S. elections
By Madilyn Cataloni Opinion Editor
When the Founding Fathers were creating the U.S. government, there was a lot of debate about the most efficient way to represent the U.S.. They decided that the best way to do this was through a single, powerful executive to represent the nation. However, there were many debates regarding how to elect this new power. The larger states wanted the presidency to be decided solely on population, while the smaller states wanted equal representation for all. The two main reasons for the electoral college were based on representation and a lack of education for the citizens. The Framers were concerned that the bigger states would automatically determine the president, while the smaller states were overcome. Further, the Framers were concerned that the citizens were not educated enough to make an informed decision about the future of the country. The outcome of these disagreements led to the creation of the electoral college, which has since become
outdated in modern society. The electoral college was the solution to make the best of both worlds. The electoral college numbers are derived from both population size and an equal representation. Each state is allocated electors based on the numbers of their Senators and House Representatives. The U.S. citizens also do not directly vote for the President. While the popular vote traditionally tells the individual electors who to vote for, the citizens ultimately have little to no say. While this model worked in the 1700s, society has since modernized and education is a mandatory part of citizens’ lives.
As society has evolved, so has corruption within politics. When looking at the 2016 presidential election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, Clinton won the popular vote, but lost the electoral college. As a result, Trump became president despite more citizens voting for Hillary. Democracy is centered on the ideals of citizens having their voices heard. When the president is not chosen based on the majority of the citizens, it leads to corruption within democracy. There are a few reasons
that the electoral college creates such flaws. One of the biggest reasons is due to a lack of apportionment among electors in the states. In California, one electoral vote would represent over 700,000 people. Comparably, in Wyoming, one elector vote would represent 195,000 people. The differences in numbers leads to unequal representation amongst states.
As a result, states such as Pennsylvania, Arizona, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina and Georgia are left to determine the presidency. The so-called “swing states” are states which do not lean towards a political party.
When presidential candidates begin targeted campaigning, they choose to prioritize the swing states that they have a chance of “swinging” to vote for them. Ultimately, in current society, the electoral college has become outdated and unneeded. Instead of being an efficient compromise, the electoral college now creates a power imbalance between larger and smaller populated states. As education has also been improved, there is no need for electors to be entrusted with voting, as now all citizens have the ability to make informed decisions about the future of the country.
Artificial Intelligence should not be used in
art
Artists should not use generative tools in their work
By Becca Schmidt Assistant A&E Editor
When one looks up the definition of art on Google, it literally denotes “the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as a painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.” The definition of art is definitely more complex and nuanced than a couple of sentences from a quick Google search; however, it begs the question of what can be considered art and what can not. Each year, the power of artificial intelligence (AI) grows. It is at a point now where one can describe something they want to see, and receive a picture back. While it is quick and easy, it does cause one to wonder if it is truly art. This question is a slippery slope with a hazy line that has not been established yet. Still, using AI for all different art forms, like for music or films, is highly controversial. As AI evolves to produce more and more detailed and useful work, humanity needs to consider: should AI be used in art?
First of all, a lot of people do not consider AI-made art as true art. It is artificially made
and can not reflect true human expression. However, that is a hazy line without a definite answer. When Congo, a Chimpanzee known for his abstract paintings in the 1950s, made a painting, was that art? The idea of art in general is very subjective and difficult to answer. Still the
question remains about whether it is ethical to use AI in art. On a practical level, the use of AI is detrimental to the environment. It has a large carbon footprint because the data centers AI utilizes for computing use a significant amount of energy and necessitate large
amounts of water for cooling. Therefore, the use of AI for art is not just morally questionable, but physically harmful to the Earth. In addition, AI art has the ability to make the job of artists obsolete. Artists already struggle in today’s world that is so focused on technology. It would cut costs for creating art, so there is a monetary incentive for businesses and other places that employ artists to use AI. Despite that, having AI create art takes away from the human expression in art. From the first cave paintings, humans have expressed their experiences and emotions through art. Art has been an outlet, especially for those confronting the meaning of life itself and how to process it. In that way, if art loses its sense of human feelings and experience, it only has a visual purpose. AI uses a compilation of information that is already known: it can not feel the human experience or create art from it. There is value in every person’s unique experience, thoughts and feelings. It is irreplaceable and inimitable, even by something as intelligent as AI. In the end, even if AI can cut costs and has the ability to create art, it should not replace human-made art in practice because it simply can not replace human-made art and the experience behind it.
The electoral college needs to change to reflect the changing American society.
Graphic/Maeve Connors
Graphic/Vanshi Shroff
“Something Beautiful” stuns listeners worldwide
Miley Cyrus’s ninth studio album begins a new era of pop music
By Jeffery Todd Staff Writer
Miley Cyrus’s career has grown over the past two decades, with a new, chart-topping hit with every new album she releases. Cyrus’s ninth studio album, “Something Beautiful,” was released May 30, and is definitely an instant staple album in Cyrus’s catalogue. The album contains 13 catchy tracks, all of which captivate Cyrus’s musical versatility throughout the 52 minute album. Additionally, two unexpected features with Brittany Howard and Naomi Campbell add depth and variety to the project.
“‘Something Beautiful’ is a one-of-a-kind pop opera fueled by fantasy,” Cyrus wrote in her announcement for the album.
Cyrus began this new era with an iconic single, titled “End Of The World” which was instantly recognized for its contrasting sound from other tracks released by Cyrus. The single and its accompanying visuals demonstrate a new, more artistic side of Cyrus that pushes her creative boundaries. The song has strong disco influence that is enhanced by the vintage aesthetics of the music video.
“Not only is it my best album, it is my gay-
-est album yet,” Cyrus said in an interview with Billboard.
Since the start of her career in Disney Channel’s “Hannah Montana”, Cyrus has been recognized for her distinct, natural vocal style and her strong lyrics. Ever since “Hannah Montana” aired, she has been praised for her raw, natural vocals. Since, she has released nine albums with a number of radio hits. Most famously, Cyrus released “Flowers” in January 2023, a song that samples Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man” that instantly topped the charts. Ever since, the single has given Cyrus her first Grammy award and led millions to stream her following album, “Endless Summer Vacation.”
Despite the new album, there are currently no plans for Cyrus to go on tour. Fans are anxiously awaiting a comeback tour, as she has not performed in concert since May 2023. Cyrus finds touring to be unhealthy and isolating while also not accommodating for her personal needs and desires. Further, she previously mentioned that the touring process does not provide enough time for rest.
“Singing for hundreds of thousands of people isn’t really the thing that I love,” Cyrus
Cyrus’ unique promotion led to anticipation for the album and additional film, being shown June 27 in the US. The film will show cinematic per formances of the album’s tracks.
said in an interview with Deadline. “After the last show I did, I kind of looked at it as more of a question. And I can’t.”
In addition to the album, Cyrus is debuting a film, which is coming to theaters worldwide for one day only. In the US and Canada, the “Something Beautiful” film will be shown in theaters on June 12 and the international showing will be on June 27. Cyrus is releasing this film as she sees the new album as a visual album.
“Something Beautiful” is a new, revolutionary album from Miley Cyrus that marks a growth in her artistic development and it is definitely worth a listen for both fans and casual listeners alike. Since winning her first Grammy award, Cyrus has clearly devoted herself towards making her music the best it can be. This is reflected throughout “Something Beautiful” from start to finish.
Photo/Jeff Todd
Graphic/Maeve O’Connor
future plans Feature
CLASS OF 2025:
Massachusetts (103)
UMass Amherst
Owen Abril
Emeli Cruz Velasquez
Amritha Devaraj
Caroline Doran
Madelyn Graceffa
Rachel Hickey
Ryan Lania
Joseph Martin
Matthew Narag
Caitlyn Naughton
Favor Nyende
Emily Youm
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Niko Beliveau
Andrew Burke
Shreyans Jadhav
Donovan McCarthy
Hersh Mepani
Justin Ricketts
Peter Seibel
Northeastern University
Sofia Baroletti
Brendan Conover
Andrea Hung
Ronan McAndrew
Sandhya Moorthi
Matthew St. Cyr
MassBay Community College
Sienna Ddungu
Andre De Araujo
Gabrielly De Melo
Gustavo Dos Santos
Landon Driscoll
Alexandra Mooney
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Sean Alconada
Liam Bryant
Alberto Dayaa
Darragh McKeown
Elise Sirard
Adonai Paulos
Sakeena Abbasi
Giacomo DiSipio
Hani Hussaini
Nikol Kamenova
Hend Karzoun
Udipti Tandan
Curry College
David Baker
Caitlin Beals
Richard Hayes
Grace O’Connell
Massasoit Community College
Matthew Botelho
Ashley Joseph
Danny Martinez
Jaeden Upham
Westfield State University
Ryan Domineau
Michael Pileski
Megan Sullivan
Gloria Wilmot
UMass Dartmouth
Connor Casey
Jackie Cruz
Yuheng Huang
Gustavo Sepulvida
Merrimack College
Brayden Mattera
Samuel Miles
Kaitlin Timilty
Endicott College
Lila Cahalane
Riley Schultz
Michael St. Martin
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Tyler Dacko
Danielle Danna
Jack Monteith
Boston College
Cole Bowden
Boston University
James Butters
Evelyn Ogbebor
Bunker Hill Community College
Jonathan Feliciano
Priyam Patel
Stonehill College
Jack Conti
Noah Mackenzie
Western New England University
Joseph Malone
Maxwell Raeke
UMass Lowell
Daniel Glogowski
Elizabeth Sentamu
Tufts University
Corinne Garrity
Roger Mann
Alexa Sirard
Emmanuel College
Caroline Abdalla
Logan Murphy
Bridgewater State University
Madison Murphy
Chukwuma Odenigbo
Paul Whelan
Babson College
Duru Karahan
Jenna Wong
Salem State University
Kathleen Chamoun
Carolynne Norwood
Dean College
Daniel Duggan
Suffolk University
Andrew Gillietti
Springfield Colleg
Dylan Burgess
Middlesex Community College
Hailey Brooks
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Amanda Brennan
Worcester State University
Gabrielle Villeneuve
Rhode Island (22)
University of Rhode Island
Sydney Bissonnette
Jacob Bonarrigo
Deidra Ceesay
Austin Feener
Deija Franklin
Grace Hogarty
Kryssia Swanson
Providence College
Caroline Daley
Gianna Frederick
Aleksia Gerdhuqi
Abigail Poirier
Addison Wyzanski
Salve
Regina University
Aiden Abate
Cashman Cantrell
Mia Destito
Roger Williams University
Sophia Gibson
Shane Hughes
Charles Mortali
Bryant University
Joseph Finkelstein
Sophia Fruci
Johnson & Wales
Catherine Jackson
New Hampshire
University of New shire
Ella Boudreau
Ava Dacey
Ella Kearns
Carlie
Knight
Colin Singer
Brandon
Plymouth State
Jonathan
Austin Hollander
Makenzie
Joseph Marascio
Calvin McCabe
Saint Anselm College
Keene
Alexa Dayaa
Scott Falvey
Sean Hazel
Frank Samargedlis
Zander
State College
Chase Iantosca
Southern New University
Dean Domenech
UMass Boston
Laura Costa
By Maeve O’Connor, Joe Curran, & Vanshi Shroff Lifestyle Editor, Sports Editor, & Graphics Editor
University
Finkelstein
Fruci
Wales University
Catherine Burke
Marshall
Hampshire (18)
New Hamp-
Boudreau
Dacey Kearns
Knight Singer
Brandon Ward
State University
Jonathan Elkhoury
Hollander
Makenzie Keefe
Marascio
McCabe
College
Dayaa
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Winter
College
Iantosca
Hampshire
Domenech
Connecticut (17)
Fairfield University
Luke Gaba
Vanessa Kadilli
Marissa Langone
Peter LaRusso
Quinn MacNeil
Abigail Tyszka
Sacred Heart University
Norah Broderick
Julie Cosse
Gia Ferullo
Abigail Lowe
University of Connecticut
Jaishree Bhatia
Alexandra Della Valle
Aideen Smith
Connecticut College
Kaylee Ebb
Quinnipiac Universit
Sophie Murray
University of New Haven
Sophie Shea
Yale University
Sarah Mukkuzhi
New York (6)
Syracuse University
Georgia Tashjian
Maran Gallivan
Clarkson University
Briella Clinton
Iona University
Kaelin Donahue
Manhattanville University
Francesca Goodsell
Skidmore College
Eve Roddy
Florida (4)
University of South Florida
Joseph Horgan
Tilla Romano
Florida Gulf Coast University
Brigitte Jones
The University of Tampa
Reilly Raynal
Maine (4)
Colby College
Sharlotte Stazinski
Thomas College
Timothy Fraser
University of Maine
Victoria Johnson
University of Maine at Farmington
Maxwell Bryan
Pennsylvania (3)
Gettysburg College
Madilyn Cataloni
University of Pennsylvania
Nirjara Akkole
University of Pittsburgh
Kayla Ahern
Maryland (2
Johns Hopkins University
Shayna Jain
University of Maryland
Avneesh Shenoy
Michigan (2)
University of Michigan
Bhakti Belle
Alora Guarino
Mississippi (2)
University of Mississippi
Caroline Chase
William McGrath
North Carolina (2)
High Point University
Sara Thomsen
North Carolina State University
Kyle Kelleher
Ohio (2)
Miami University
Amelia Durso
Tahlia Murphy
South Carolina (2)
Clemson University
Jared Spack
University of South Carolina
Samantha Maffei
Tennessee (2)
University of Tennessee
Alanna D’Avignon
Max Cleary
Alabama (1)
University of Alabama
Ava Sullivan
Colorado (1)
University of Colorado
Ryan Ahmed
Kansas (1)
University of Kansas
Cole Ambroceo
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Spencer Byerly
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William & Mary
Rebecca Schmidt
Washington D.C. (1)
American University
Dillon O’Connell
West Virginia (1)
West Virginia University
Devin Sheehan
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University of Wisconsin
Aaron Levenson
Continuing Education (7)
Bailey Alger (Cosmetology School)
Evellyn Das Dores (Cosmetology School)
William Duggan (Undecided)
Kristin Head-Saulnier (Esthetician School)
Aiden Kadilli (Peterson School)
Ali Kourani (Trade School)
Coleman Walsh (Riverview School)
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Christopher Browne (Plumbing)
Cooper Butters (Electrical)
Bernardo Campos Dias
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Conor Harrington
Kareem Lahens
Adonai Martinez Miralda
Koalan Mason
Joseph Nourse (Electrical Union)
Patrick Piersiak
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Edward Dietel
Logan McKay
Matheus Nunes
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Humberto Ferreira
Takirah West
Senior Reflections
Abigail Poirier
CLASS OF 2024- 2025
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt
I have thoroughly enjoyed the past four years at Walpole High School where I have grown as a student, but more importantly, as a person. Schoolwork aside, my favorite part of highschool has been playing sports. The girls on the field hockey and lacrosse teams are like family to me, and I will forever be grateful to WHS Athletics for bringing me this sense of belonging. I have learned the definition of hard work and grit, and winning the Field Hockey State Championship was one of the most rewarding feelings ever. Balancing athletics and academics is definitely a challenge, but I have developed invaluable skills like how to manage my time effectively. Although stressful on occasion, it is important to remember that being a busy high school student is a privilege. So, if I had to give advice to incoming freshmen I would tell them to get involved with school clubs and activities when they can. For me, participating in extracurriculars like Student Council and Morgan's Message was the easiest way to connect with other people and get involved in the WHS community. I will miss being a student at Walpole, but I am proud of what I was able to accomplish and am thankful for the memories I have made here!
I am extremely grateful to have spent the past four years at WHS. While neighboring high schools may have nicer-looking buildings or fancy technology, WHS has grit and tradition. We have historically strong athletics, a 23-year student Film Festival, a 52-year road race, and rich arts programs. We have teachers that invest in both the education and personal growth of their students. We have a smart, hardworking, and compassionate student body. I have learned from these values at WHS, and I look forward to applying them in the nextchapter of my adult life. WHS has plenty of unique opportunities outside of academics. During my WHS experience, I have engaged with the community through cross country, track and field, Film Fest, and NHS. I have enjoyed competing through 12 seasons of distance running and leading my team as a captain, directing movies for the Film Fest, and giving back to the community through STUCO and NHS. The best part about the WHS community is the friends you make along the way—I have made my best friends through these activities. These friendships are what I will miss most leaving WHS. Challenge yourself and try something new! With Sports, Music, Film Fest, TV, Robotics, Speech & Debate, Mock Trial, Theater, Dance, STUCO, NHS, Clubs, Service Projects and more, there is a lot to do at WHS. You will never regret getting involved.
Sakeena Abbasi
Cole Bowden
Attending Walpole High School has made a variety of impressions upon me, from my thought process in working through an algebra problem to how I automatically start analyzing any type of reading material for motifs and themes. But, the greatest impression by far is how my art has evolved these past few years. In my first year, I chose to take Ceramics & Sculpture with Mr. Kim. At first, it was an odd experience to think in 3D shapes and sculpt art that looked interesting from all angles. Every prompt was open to interpretation and allowed creative liberty, which I had never experienced in past art classes. It was after Mr. Kim’s class that art finally clicked to me as a form of self expression beyond just a fun hobby. I discovered my preferred style and medium through constant exposure to different techniques and types of art. Yet, it wasn’t only through art classes that I was able to expand my artistic knowledge and experience. In sophomore year, I took woodshop and emerged with helpful skills like properly using a jointer and miter saw without losing fingers. I participated in Walpole’s 300th Anniversary by painting one of the ducks that were scattered throughout the town (shoutout to Lewey!) I also joined the National Art Honor Society and became the Treasurer. Additionally, for my service project in the National Honor Society, I painted a mural at Boyden Elementary School. I even participated a bit in the WHS Film Festival by designing one of the t-shirts in the movie Big Murray. I accomplished all of these projects because of WHS’s supportive environment and the countless opportunities available for the students. That brings me to my advice for the incoming freshmen class: Take advantage! Join clubs that interest you and take advantage of the opportunities that are offered. Get to know people from all types of organizations so that you can be the one in any situation who says, “I know a guy.” Finally, get involved in projects where you can learn as many skills as possible. High school is the place for exploring your interests and preparing yourself for college, so try everything and shy away from nothing.
SENIOR Sports Commits
Finding a school that offers a great business program that will allow for job opportunities post college graduation was a priority for Mattera when ultimately deciding to commit to Merrimack in December of 2023. The sense of community amongst the coaches and players on and off the field made Merrimack the perfect fit for Mattera to thrive academically and athletically.
Not only does the University of Massachusetts Amherst offer a high level of education for Naughton to study health science and public health, but the school also offers a competitive sports atmosphere which caught her eye. Since her official commitment to the program in September of 2023, Naughton has looked forward to surrounding herself with other athletes with the same passion for lacrosse.
Mackenzie committed to Stonehill College in October of 2024, feeling confident that the school would set him up for success in the future. For Mackenzie, Stonehill is the perfect choice with its location close to home, several academic opportunities and gives him a chance to continue to build his athletic skills. Becoming a part of the family-like atmosphere from his first day on campus, brings excitement for Mackenzie to start this next chapter.
Brayden
Mattera
By Katelyn O’Brien Assistant Sports Editor
Unlike the other athletes, Feener decided on attending the University of Rhode Island (URI) before deciding to become an athlete on their track and field program. After running both indoor and outdoor track throughout all four years of high school, he decided to reach out to the URI coach for potential open spots on the roster. Feener looks forward to spending the next four years at a multifaceted campus with the opportunity to major in civil engineering while still being able to run
After focusing on finding a school with business related academic opportunities, Fruci committed to Bryant University in July of 2024. She directed her attention to Bryant with its close proximity to home, the campus size and the chance to continue to play lacrosse at a higher level for an additional four years.
Northeastern University was at the top of St. Cyr’s list of potential colleges when looking for schools with high academics and an exceptional track and field program. St. Cyr committed to Northeastern in October of 2024 with a plan to major in business. Although moving from high school level to college level competition will be a change, he looks forward to taking on the challenge.
Briella Clinton
D3 Volleyball - Clarkson Univeristy
Aiden Abate
D3 Football- Salve Regina University
Danielle Danna D3 Track & Field + Cross countryMassachusetts Maritime Academy
Dylan Burgess D3 Football- Springfield College
Elise Sirard
D3 Soccer - Wentworth Institute of Technology
Gabrielle Villeneuve D3 Soccer - Worchester State University
Jackson Marshall
D3 Baseball - Johnson and Wales University
Jenna Wong D3 Lacrosse - Babson College
Joseph Malone
D3 Football - Western New England University
Maxwell Raeke
D3 Lacrosse - Western New England University
Chukwuma Odenigbo
D3 Basketball - Bridgewater State University
Maxwell Bryan D3 Baseball - University of Maine Farmington
Cathrine Burke
D3 Lacrosse - Johnson and Wales University
Joseph Marascio
D3 Soccer - Plymouth State University
Michael Pileski
D3 Baseball -Westfield State University
Michael St. Martin
D3 Baseball - Endicott College
Sharlotte Stazinski
D3 Softball- Colby College
Priyam Patel
D3 Baseball - Bunker Hill Community College
Cashman Cantrell
D3 Football - Salve Regina University
Shane Hughes
D3 Track & Field - Roger Williams University
Unexpected essentials for your college dorm Add these items to your college shopping list
By Maran Gallivan Staff Writer
Creating a college packing list may seem like a daunting and tedious task, but organizing a list is a way to stay on track as you move into your new dorm for the next nine months. Often, packing lists feature the basic essentials like bedding, toiletries, school supplies and room decor; however, many forget the most useful essentials. One of the most overlooked items is a clothing steamer. Instead of a big bulky iron and an ironing table in a limited and shared place, a clothing steamer offers a quick method
to unwrinkle outfits. Prop your article of clothing on a hanger on the back of your door and use the water-filled steamer to erase any obvious wrinkles. The steamer is perfect for everyday class outfits as well as formal events to help make you look more put together.
One item frequently overlooked is Poo-Pourri spray. Products like Poo-Pourri provide a discrete way to manage odor in these communal spaces and be mindful for all residents. These come in many scents and available online and at larger shopping chains.
Another basic hygiene necessity frequently forgotten is nail clippers. Many people enter college looking their best with re-
cently dyed hair, new clothes, and a fresh manicure, so you might not realize until a couple weeks later when your nails are outgrown that you have forgotten nail clippers. So, to avoid inflated campus store prices, remember to pack them in advance.
In small dorm rooms with many people, students are bound to get sick. A personal supply of vitamins and medications are essential for staying clear of the “frat flu.” Supplies like cold medicine, allergy pills and a first-aid kit are a great way to keep you feeling healthy during your transition away from home.
Simple tools like scissors and tape are always needed, but seldom remembered. Whether cutting open packages, tearing off a tag on new clothing or hanging decorations, the small items become essential parts of dorm living.
Another unexpected essential to bring is black out curtains. Easily installing the curtains with a tension rod for windows, the black out curtains provide a darker and more restful space. The curtains are essential for late sleepers after a long night out and not spoil your day as soon as it starts. These are available at
amazon and other sellers for reasonable prices and are a musthave for any college packing list.
To save your back from lugging a week’s worth of laundry to and from the laundry room, buying rolling laundry basket is worth the investment. Laundry is a weekly challenge for every university student, so a rolling laundry cart can ease the journey through long campus hallways and stairwells. Moreover, a smaller travel laundry bag is useful for sorting clean clothes to be folded and dirty clothes to be washed. By emphasizing smaller loads, you can surely maintain a spotless room.
The most versatile item to pack is a beach towel. Though seemingly out of place in a non-coastal environment, its larger size and ability to dry quickly is ideal for outdoor seating, yoga or other workouts and many more uses.
These items may not appear on a standard college packing checklist, but they consistently prove their worth in daily collegiate life. Functional, compact and often affordable, these items are essential for your dorm life and easily shareable to an entire dorm floor.
Seniors should consider taking a gap year Benefits of exploring and travel post highschool
By Molly Diggin Staff Writer
After four years of highschool, seniors have to make the decision to either continue their academic career in college, go into a trade or explore new experiences before college. Every year the question of “should I take a gap year?” constantly arises. Taking a gap year is a chance to travel to new countries, explore new job opportunities to accumulate money for college, gain real world experiences or improve your mental health.
Traveling to new countries and learning a new language or culture can be an exhilarating and informative experience, however knowing which country or part of the world would suit your interest and passions the best can be a struggle, but is the most fundamental decision of your travels. Different countries offer different experiences. It’s an eye opening experience to witness first hand the cultures and languages you might not have been exposed to previously. Australia is known for its beaches, surfing, camping, road trips and remote nature. However, Australia is an expensive country to visit, rent in popular cities like Melbourne and Sydney. One apartment or
unit costs 1,517 AUD which converted into American dollars is $975 per week. Eating out or going to restaurants and different forms of transportation can be pricey. However, jobs in hotels, farms or any short term employment can help with the expenses. If you have an interest in immersing yourself in a new language and teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), then Thailand could be the best fit for you. In Thailand there are many
opportunities for teaching English to people who speak Thai or other languages. Thailand offers beautiful islands, jungles, diving and snorkeling experiences. Thailand is affordable, eating out is cheaper along with activities leaving you with great experiences and memories. When taking a gap year for mental health purposes, one of the best locations for a more vacation feel can be Costa Rica. Costa Rica is known for its thrill-
ing adventures, beaches and historic volcanoes. Some adventures throughout the country include water sports like tubing and water skiing, hiking and animal watching. Costa Rica is a great place to explore if you are looking for a place to let your mind and body breathe. If spending a year post high school traveling to different countries, states or places within your hometown is not something you feel passionately about, not in the right financial or mental state, getting a job to save up money for college is an option. Restaurants, public pools, camps or nannying is a great way to get money for college. Additionally, taking a gap year would positively increase your mental health. After high school many students experience burnout and summer break often is not enough time for seniors to fully recover and gain real world experience for the next four years ahead of them in college. Taking a gap year after high school graduation before college can be very beneficial to the body and mind, allowing for real world experiences. Wherever you decide to travel to, the people you will meet and the cultures you will immerse yourself in something you will never forget.
One needs a lot more materials to succeed in college then they might originally think.
Traveling for a gap year can be more beneficial then going to college.
Graphic/Molly Diggin
Graphic/Maeve Connors
Classic outdoor activities to try this summer Embracing the summer season with engaging activities
By Addy Pinto Staff Writer
Summer offers so many new experiences and exciting activities. As the days grow longer and the warm weather sets in, the temperature almost invites people to begin spending more time outdoors. During the warmer months, school disappears, which gives teens more time on their hands. Taking advantage of the great weather is important. There are a vast amount of different activities to stay occupied during summer, including going to the beach with friends, drive-in movies, picnics in the park and camping. It is important to be mindful of the amount of time spent staring at a screen, and also how often you are relying on technology to provide various forms of entertainment. When it is nice out, it is important to try and reconnect with nature. Finding a nearby beach and spending the day with friends or family is a great way of taking advantage of the warmer weather that comes with summer. The beach is full of possibilities to be active, like swimming in the ocean or a lake, or even just throwing around a beach ball, soccer ball or a frisbee. To spend a beach day in more of a laid back way, to reduce stress or to ease your mind, you may enjoy reading a book, tanning
or just listening to the water.
If you are more of an active person, hiking is another way to stay active. Hiking can be really interesting; it gives you a chance to look at what nature has to provide and to experience new things. There are also hiking trails all around. You can do a mountain hike, a brooks hike or even just walk around a farm. During the hotter days, kayaking, tubing and paddle boarding can be very amusing; these can be done anywhere like rivers, lakes or the ocean. Camping also presents a chance to live out in the wild and get away from home. Outdoor camping is commonly done in national parks or at a designated camping ground. National parks have a wide range of attractions for guests to experience.
A more uncommon activity to do during the summer is going to a drive-in movie. Even though it has become more difficult to find closer drive-in theaters, it is still a very fun activity. Slowly, more and more drive-in theaters are closing down due to not having enough customers, so it is important to support them because most are run by small businesses. Drive-in movies often showcase new films or sometimes older films. Oftentimes, drive-in theaters are even cheaper than the actual theater. It also allows
guests to experience watching a movie outside while hanging out with friends and family. Drive-in theaters offer a more relaxed atmosphere and the ability to enjoy films from the comfort of your own car. This activity completely embodies the entire summer feeling.
Hosting or attending an outside dinner party or having a picnic is a way to stay social when you are not seeing your friends every day in school. There are so many summer food options to make for a get together, from watermelon and lemonade, to burgers, pasta salad and grilled skewers, outdoor dinner parties and picnics are essential for the summer. Enjoying good food and hang-
ing out with friends is a perfect way to spend your summer time. Similarly, going to a concert with friends is another great option to cure your summertime boredom. There are usually a bunch of concerts that go on during this time. Sometimes, they can be a bit expensive but other than that they are really fun. You can see your favorite artist, have an amusing time getting ready and enjoy good food.
The summer season is just over three months; therefore, it is important to optimize your time and get the most out of the sunny days. This is a time where you should relax and reset before the upcoming school year. Summer is short so focus on making as many memories.
The dangers of tanning are often overlooked
Consider tanning’s risks before participating this summer
By Gianna Fredrick Assistant News Editor
Summer is quickly approaching, and a popular summertime goal for many people is to attain the perfect tan. From swimming in the pool under the sun with no sunscreen, to laying out in the sunlight for hours lathered in just tanning gels, people will do whatever it takes to get a nice tan. Sure, some sunlight is good for humans, as it provides a natural source of Vitamin D, which promotes bone health and boosts our immune systems, but getting too much sun without any protection, like sunscreens with high SPFs, puts individuals at risk for developing skin cancer and other skin damage. Although many people feel more confident with a deep, summer tan, is confidence really worth putting bodily health at risk?
We get a lot of our energy on Earth from the sun, and it comes in many different forms, including ultra-violet rays (UV), something which humans cannot physically see. Over the summer, the UV becomes more powerful because the Earth’s tilt in relativity to the sun brings its sur-
face closer to the sun’s UV rays. Consequently, the UV rays have less of the Earth’s atmosphere to pass through and become absorbed by it, leaving Earth’s surface and its inhabitants to be the main recipients of UV rays.
Some of the most dangerous methods of tanning include direct exposure to the sun and UV rays through tanning beds or tanning without sunscreen. Additionally, the application of tanning gels or tanning oils to strengthen the sun’s effects can
also lead to increased UV exposure to unprotected skin. Over time, this exposure can cause physical damage to the skin in the form of sun spots, discoloration, and premature wrinkles. However, one of the most common results of too much exposure to sun without protection is skin cancer, which develops as a result of a rapid division of cells from too much UV radiation. To mitigate unnecessary exposure to the sun, consider multiple forms of sun protection,
including applying sunscreen regularly, wearing hats, and keeping the arms, chest, and shoulders covered when possible. However, in the event that you do burn in the sun, there are steps you should take to heal the skin and reduce the long term damage hopefully leabing it as only a burn. As soon as possible, you should apply salves such as pure aloe vera to the skin to help the skin heal and to prevent peeling. Additionally, it is essential to drink sufficient amounts of water after a sunburn to combat dehydration. Finally, if you are experiencing more severe signs of sun damage such as blistering, see a doctor as soon as possible.
While spending days in the sun is a quintessential summer experience, it should never be done at the expense of your health. Be sure to take proper precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and spending time in the shade, this summer so that you can enjoy the sun safely and not cause long term damage to your skin or health. No matter how drawn you are to want that summer broze skin, there can be heathier alternatives that do not harm.
These fun activities will keep you entertained all summer.
Graphic/Vanshi Shroff
Graphic/ Molly Diggin
