Issuu

June 2026

WALPOLE HIGH SCHOOL

Volume XXVI, ISSUE III

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

WALPOLE, MA 02081

Class

2026

says

goodbye

Walpole

Stephen Jung and Jane Gurtowski sent off this year's graduates By Joe Curran Editor-in-Chief

On June 7, Walpole High School’s class of 2026 officially graduated. The ceremony, which is the 152nd of its kind, celebrated the academic careers and achievements of the Walpole graduates. After an introductory speech by Principal Stephen Imbusch, seniors Stephen Jung and Jane Gurtowski were selected as student speakers. Jung, who is also the president of the class of 2026, focused his speech upon the little parts of the high school experience that ultimately mean the most, using the Pixar film “Up” as an analogy throughout. “It is hard to say goodbye to a place you did not realize is holding you together until it is time to let go,” Jung said. Jung continued his speech highlighting the impact of the town and of its people upon the graduating class. “We are saying goodbye to a version of life where we got to see the same people every sin-

Ten

gle morning without even thinking twice about it,” Jung said. Gurtowski, who is the student council president, followed Jung’s speech. Gurtowski began by reflecting on the importance of recognizing the whole of oneself, not just their failings. “It is crucial to remember that we do not learn if we do not fail,” Gurtowski said. Gurtowski then looked to the future, urging her classmates to constantly push to achieve their dreams despite any setbacks that may arise. “If it seems like your dreams have ended, make new ones,” Gurtowski said. West Point graduate and reprasentative Al Barese was then brought to the podium to recognize the two Walpole students who will be joining the military this fall. Jung will be attending West Point while Chris Sterling will be joining the navy. Following these speeches, the seniors were recognized with awards and scholarships. Nora Farley and Mariya Joji

teachers

were honored for attaining the highest GPAs in the grade while Luke Zahurak and Bella Bingham were recognized for their athletic achievements. Countless other students were recipients of awards, including William Fezzie for mathematics, Charlotte O’Malley for band and Mikayla Kirby for art. Finally, students were

called individually to receive their diplomas, officially marking the ends of their high school career. As the class of 2026 makes their way into the future, their families, peers and teachers wish them the best. The graduation remained hopeful throughout and the seniors, throwing their caps in the air, showed their readiness for what is to come.

Photo/ Maeve O'Connor

The

Walpole

retire

students

graduated

from

Turco

Field.

WPS

These educators leave with 213 years of combined experience

By Joe Curran Editor-in-Chief With the school year drawing to an end, teachers at Walpole Public Schools (WPS) will again be ending their education careers. This year, 10 teachers are retiring between the six schools. Seventh grade social studies teacher Lisa Goldman will be ending her 22 year teaching career at the end of this year. She will be remembered for her constant emphasis of the importance of teaching kindness to her students. “I will miss seeing a student find their way throughout the year and learning how to be... a really thoughtful, independent thinking student,” Goldman said. Lisa Rizzo, another retiree, has been teaching in Walpole for the past 30 years. Rizzo spent most of her career teaching third grade at Elm Street. Her passion for teaching never faltered. “When former students come back and tell me a memory they have... that makes me really proud,” Rizzo said.

Also from Elm Street School, Jennifer Torigian will be retiring at the end of the year. Torigianbecame a math specialist for both Elm and Fisher in 2021. Torigian was inspired to teach by her own third grade teacher. Carolyn McDonough will also be retiring at the closing of this year. In 2002, McDonough went back to college to resume her teaching journey. Since then, McDonough has taught English learning students at Fisher Elementary. “I have loved getting to know our families who moved here from other countries,” McDonough said.

Education Support Specialist Carol Hazerijan will be leaving Walpole Middle School come summer. Hazerijan’s ultimate goal throughout her career was to help each of the students she worked with succeed. “Knowing that I helped make school a little easier for a student who was struggling was truly rewarding,” Hazerijan said. Also retiring in 2026 is Elizabeth Giampietro. Giampietro, now a first grade teacher at Fisher School, began her teaching career in 1985. Giampietro placed a great emphasis on keeping up with modern teaching styles. Walpole High School’s

Graphic/ Joe Curran

Walpole High to Walpole in

School 1998

retiree after

Steven pursuing a

Gibson legal

came career.

Steven Gibson will be ending his 30 year teaching career this year. Gibson chose to become a teacher due to his love for history. “The challenge of engaging students in the subject and helping them better understand history has been rewarding,” Gibson said. Also retiring this year is fifth grade teacher Shawn Gough. Gough began teaching in 1990 and will look back fondly on both his time in the classroom and his time running activities out of it. Nancy Henri has been working within Walpole Public Schools since 2003; this year will be her last. Henri has served as an aid for English learning students at both the middle school and high school. “Working with the students and fantastic staff has been very rewarding,” Henri said. Todd Chamberlain will be ending his 15 year career teaching math at Johnson Middle School this year. In his career, he hoped to make his students enjoy coming to math class.

Lifestyle

page 2

June 2026

Graphic/Nora O’Connor

Summer foods to get one excited for sunnier days Snacks

and

By Addy Pinto Opinion Editior As the weather becomes sunny and the temperature begins to rise, people often crave lighter foods. Salads turn into a summer staple and a food that many gravitate to. Summer drinks start to become popular, whether in forms of an iced tea or a light lemonade. Food like sandwiches and paninis become relied on as individuals travel more and need to have food that can be transported. Individuals seek summer foods to lighten their mood and kick off a certain summer feeling. Salads are often overlooked because many see them as lacking flavor or solely being part of diet culture. However, there are many ways to bring flavour to a salad. One can make a Quinoa salad with tzatziki dressing and cucumbers, or if one is looking for a sweeter option, a strawberry salad is a great way to make one’s day brighter. Salads do not have to be boring or include lettuce. A cucumber and avocado salad can be extremely filling and flavorful, especially with a squirt of fresh lime. Trying different lettuce-free bases and using different dressings keeps summer foods interesting and enjoyable. While it is important to

drinks

stay hydrated with water, sometimes, consumers crave something different. Summer offers many different kinds of sweet drinks that are both hydrating and delightful. Iced tea is one of the easiest summer drinks to make, with only three ingredients: black tea, sugar and lemon juice. One can add different kinds of syrups to make iced tea even better, like blueberry iced tea and raspberry iced tea. Cherry limeade is another summer staple, including a mixture of lemon-lime soda, limes and cherry juice. It is a tart and refreshing drink and goes great with a hot summer barbeque. Chips and dip is a must have at any family-friend func-

kick

off

tion. It is easy to snack on and is a lighter food for the summer. There are so many combinations for chips and dip, like pita chips and hummus, tortilla chips and queso, potato chips and onion dip. So many dips can be paired with different kinds of chips. Dips can be store bought or easily made at home. Other chips and dip combinations can be like tortilla chips and guacamole or salsa. Chip and dip platters are effortless and simple; they do not take a long time to make. This is a fantastic way to keep friends and family satisfied at any summer event. Paninis and sandwiches are a summer must-have. They can be made hot or cold, with

Graphic/Addy Pinto

From salads to sandwiches, there are a variety of summer foods to enjoy.

summer

break

whatever choice of meat. A sandwich is a perfect portable option for any summer adventure. Greek salad sandwiches are extremely light and crunchy, featuring cucumbers, kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta. Another perfect sandwich to bring to the beach or the park is a chickpea salad sandwich with chickpeas, tomatoes, cheese and lettuce. The amazing part about sandwiches is that there are so many different combinations of toppings and unlimited options for bread. Paninis are another way to step up one’s sandwiches, since they are made on a specific kind of bread often like Italian breads and are pressed on a grill. A spinach pesto panini tastes delightful and a prosciutto and mozzarella panini is also very delightful. Sandwiches and paninis are very popular in the summer due to them being easy to make and delicious. It is important to take advantage of the warm season and to go for foods that will boost that summer feeling. Summer is all about spending time with family and friends, going on fun excursions, experiencing new things and enjoying different kinds of foods. With delicious summer snacks, one is bound to have an amazing and memorable summer break.

A&E

Page 3

June 2026

Olivia Rodrigo releases new album on June 12 Fans await the release of “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love” By Jeffrey Todd A&E Editor After not releasing a new album for nearly three years, Olivia Rodrigo will release her highly-anticipated third studio album, “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love,” on June 12. The singles themselves are already some of her most emotionally-vulnerable work yet, as well as checking the boxes for today’s pop music standards. The first single, “drop dead,” released April 17, took social media platforms by storm with exciting vocals and stunning visuals in the track’s music

video. Though many enjoyed the track, it did not do exceptionally well on Spotify and Apple Music streaming charts, peaking at No. 1 on the US Spotify Charts, and plummeting the next day. About a month after the release of “drop dead,” Rodrigo released the album’s second single, titled “the cure.” The track introduced a new, unique theme for the album, of Olivia being unraveled and needing someone to help fix her. This theme establishes the title of Rodrigo’s upcoming arena tour, “The Unraveled Tour,” which will start in Hartford, CT. later this fall. Rodrigo also premiered a new song on

Graphic/ Jeffrey Todd

Rodrigo

stuns

The

Emmy

HBO

the

Max

album’s

Last December, HBO Max confirmed a third season of the teen-drama “Euphoria”, which follows a group of high schoolers’ faults with addiction, mental health and grief. The premiere, “Andale”, introduces the characters’ posthigh school careers. After years of sobriety, Rue Bennett learns she owes her former drug dealer, Laurie, money and works as her drug mule. Cassie Howard and Nate Jacobs get engaged, however, Nate’s mismanagement of his business builds debt, leading Cassie to post social media content for money. Jules becomes financially dependent on her landlord, whom she is having an affair with. Maddy Perez and Lexi Howard pursue Hollywood careers. “Andale” concludes with Rue being hired by drug-trafficking club-owner Alamo Brown. During “America My Dream”, Maddy and Cassie begin to work together to build Cassie’s social media following. Meanwhile, Rue takes one of Alamo’s girls, Angel to an alleged “rehab,” but is not seen again for the rest of the season. In “The Ballad of Paladin”, Cassie and Nate’s wedding is interrupted when Nate’s creditor, Naz, confronts him

cover

relases

Award

By Sophia DeMelo Staff Writer

unique

art.

winning

“Saturday Night Live,” titled “begged,” an emotional ballad that is featured on “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love.” The single offers deep relatability for listeners, with tracks often discussing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt while in a relationship, molded by Rodrigo’s signature confessional lyricism. The production throughout the singles is unlike anything Rodrigo has done before, with heavy synthesizers and lush instrumentals that elevate the listening experience. The album is 43 minutes and 27 seconds long, containing 13 songs, as well as two music videos, “drop dead” and “the cure,” both of which embrace a new, unique aesthetic in Rodrigo’s career. As for the music on the album, Rodrigo has leaned more into indie pop rather than her signature pop-rock style. The album’s tracklist is separated into two halves based on the upbeat or mellow emotion of each track, the first half is titled “girl so in love,” featuring tracks: “drop dead,” “stupid song,” “honeybee,” “maggots for brains,” “u

“Euphoria”

about his debt. After the reception, he attacks the couple and threatens more violence until he is repaid. On her way back from the wedding, Rue is arrested by the DEA for drug possession. “Kitty Likes To Dance”, resumes where episode 3 ended. Rue agrees to help the DEA investigate Alamo and Laurie by secretly recording information. After an argument with Nate, Cassie moves out and focuses on her online career with Maddy’s help. When masked gunmen rob Alamo’s safe, security footage reveals Faye, one of Laurie’s apprentices, was behind the heist. In “This Little Piggy,” Cassie’s social media career skyrockets.

series

releases

With Maddy as her manager, Cassie heavily profits from her content, even starring in a television show. Cassie sends Nate money to pay off his debt; however, it is not enough, causing Naz to retaliate. Rue introduces Maddy and Alamo and they begin turning his club girls into social media models. The episode ends with Alamo charging at Rue after believing she was trying to expose his drug business. “Stand Still and See” reveals how Alamo’s childhood shaped his distrust of others. He has Rue obtain a copy of the key to Laurie’s safe to recover items Laurie’s group stole from him. Meanwhile, Cassie chooses to Graphic/ HBO Max

Zendaya

stars

Rue

Bennett

throughout

+ me = <3,” “my way” and “purple.” The second half, titled “you seem pretty sad,” consists of “the cure,” “begged,” “what’s wrong with me,” “less,” “expectations” and “cigarette smoke.” “You seem pretty sad for a girl so in love” has the potential to be one of Olivia Rodrigo’s most personal and ambitious projects to date due to heavy anticipation of Rodrigo’s return. Through vulnerable songwriting, a fresh indie-pop sound and a carefully crafted visual aesthetic, the album explores the complexities of insecurity and self-discovery. The singles released thus far showcase Rodrigo’s artistic growth while maintaining the emotional honesty that has made her the successful artist she is today. Combined with the upcoming “Unraveled Tour” and the album’s unique concept, this era marks an exciting chapter in Rodrigo’s career. If the remaining tracks are as strong as the singles, the album will resonate with listeners across the globe, further establishing Rodrigo as one of the defining voices of modern pop music.

Euphoria.

season final

season

delete her socials to pursue acting, while Naz demands payment with violent threats. Episode 7, “Rain or Shine,” explores Ali, Rue’s sponsor, his past addiction and his road to faith. Despite attempts to find peace, Rue keeps working for Alamo after he threatens her family. Due to his debt, Naz kidnaps Cassie and buries Nate alive. Alamo agrees to save Cassie, but demands 20% of Maddy’s future earnings in return. During the exchange, Alamo kills Naz, though Nate is revealed to have died from a snake bite while underground. Later, Faye finds Rue robbing Laurie’s safe and screams, leaving Rue’s fate unknown. The finale, “In God We Trust,” shows Laurie’s business is shut down in a DEA raid. Alamo gifts Rue fentanyl-laced pills, knowing her addiction-filled past. A tragic scene reveals Rue took the pills and overdoses. Heartbroken, Ali abandons his belief in forgiveness and kills Alamo. The end of “Euphoria” carries peace surrounding death, bringing closure to years of grief, trauma and conflict. Using themes of faith, redemption and consequences, season 3 displays the characters’ experiences with real-world problems, leaving behind the euphoric and unworldly feelings of high school.

sports

Page 4

june 2026

Walpole athletics garners postseason success Championships and deep playoff runs defined Walpole’s spring season By Layla Casey Staff Writer The girls lacrosse team carries a target on their back, the former state champions cruised through the regular season with a record of 16-2. The girls earned the number one spot in the tournament, earning them an easy first and second round opponent. In the round of 32, the girls defeated Marblehead in a dominating matchup on May 27, 21-7. To follow, in the round of 16, the girls showed no mercy, defeating Marshfield 19-7 on May 31. Securing their spot in the semifinals, the girls defeated Westwood 18-8. These statistics are updated as of June 7. With a competitive record of 14-4, boys lacrosse ranked ninth in the MIAA Division II tournament. The boys took on number 29, West Springfield in their round of 32 matchup on June 1, conquering the Terriers 16-3. Just two days later, the boys defeated King Philip Regional in a close game, 11-9. Coming off a strong win, the boys went on to conquer the number one seed, Billerica Memorial 13-8. These statistics are updated as of June 7.

The softball team ended their regular season with a record of 13-5, seeding them fifth in the MIAA Division II power rankings. The Timberwolves took on the 37 seed, Wayland Warriors, in their round of 32 matchup at home on May 31. The girls took the victory with a final score of 4-1. Junior pitcher Ellie Boland took the mound, earning 17 strike-outs and only allowing two hits. On June 2, the girls defeated number 12, Plymouth South. Senior captain Grace Todd returned to go 4-4 at the plate, leading Walpole to a 7-2 victory. On June 5, the girl traveled to Shepard Hill Regional High School to play in the quar-

terfinals. Despite a strong effort, the girls fell to number 4 Shepard Hill to end their playoff run. Led by Coach Chris Costello, the reigning Division II champions ended their regular season with a record of 15-4, earning them the number two spot heading into the postseason. The boys baseball team cruised through the round of 32, beating Bedford 9-1 on June 1. Junior pitcher Luca Digiulio pitched a complete game, limiting Bedford to just one run during the nine innings, while striking out eight. To continue their winning streak, Walpole faced seed 18 barnstable in a shutout 6-0 game. Junior Shane Har-

Graphic Layla Casey

Both

girls

and

boys

lacrosse

teams

advanced

the

final

four.

rington pitched 6 innings for the Timberwolves striking out six, on the offensive side contributing two singles. In the quarterfinals, baseball’s playoff run ended. On June 6, the Timberwolves played Longmeadow and competed in a long back and fourth game. Ultimately, in the bottom of the 13 inning Longmeadow was able to push across the winning run. The boys tennis team had a good year, maintaining a record of 13-5 throughout the regular season. The boys entered the tournament as the number four seed. The team conquered Westwood in their round of 32 match, 5-0, on May 27. Coming off a strong win, Walpole defeated Burlington, in the round of 16, 4-1. After a persistent match, Walpole fell in the round of 8 to Marblehead. On June 1, the Walpole High School girls golf team captured their first ever MIAA state championship team title. The team shot an 80 over par 368 to secure the victory. Walpole was down by two halfway through the match and battled through a tough course to come out victorious with a 17 par deficit to second place Hopkinton High School.

Tessa Anzalone succeeds on boys baseball team Anzalone

defies

By Kate Potter Marketing Manager Across the country, girls are participating in boys youth sports more often due to the lack of girls’ equivalents and the opportunity to compete at higher and more intense levels. Several civil laws allow for girls to participate in physical education, clubs, varsity athletics and other physical activities in schools and organizations. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution, state and local Equal Rights Amendments, the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act and state and local public accommodations laws are designed to protect girls specifically from sex discrimination in sports. There is still a lack of normality causing less girls to play boys youth sports; however, Tessa Anzalone defies this discrimination in Walpole Little League. In Walpole, girls have competed in traditionally maledominated sports like wrestling, tackle football, hockey and baseball. According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) prohibits schools from withholding girls from playing on

stereotypes

playing

boys’ sports teams unless there is an individualized assessment stating that there is a possible safety risk for the participant. Tessa Anzalone, a current sixth grader at Walpole Middle School, has been playing baseball for five years. Baseball has always been a part of Anzalone’s life, with her older brother, father, grandfather and even mother playing and coaching baseball for Walpole. Her mother especially played a large role in inspiring Anzalone to play Little League baseball. “She played baseball here when she was my age too. She helped me feel confident and made me feel like it was completely normal to play a sport mostly dominated by boys,” Anzalone said. Being one of two girls on the Walpole Little League team, Anzalone has faced a variety of obstacles in her baseball career. Despite these obstacles, one year she had her older brother on her team while her father was coaching, allowing her to grow not only as a player, but also as an individual. “My brother helps me improve in all different ways. Not only on the field but just in general in my life. He teaches me what to do and what not to do on and off the field. He is my best friend and my favorite baseball

all-boys

player of all time. Similarly, my dad is the greatest coach and supporter I could ask for. He always encourages me to do great things in the stuff I love and teaches me something new about this game everyday,” Anzalone said. Typically, the controversy of biological girls seeking to play on a boy’s teams is centered around physical ability, safety and legality; however, under Title IX, if a school does not offer a girls team for a certain non-contact sport, then girls are legally allowed to try out for the boys team. Critics argue that in contact sports, the difference in muscle mass, bone density and size is a key concern that schools must pay at-

program

tention to for injury prevention. “The biggest obstacle of being on an all boys team is earning their respect. You have to make sure they are nice to you and respect you,” Anzalone said. “If you become one of their friends, it helps you with confidence and having a voice on the field.” “Another person I wanted to mention is Morgan Ludwig. She has been playing with me since day one,” Anzalone said. “We are the only girls in the little league this year.” Many girls throughout different towns, like Anzalone and Ludwig in Walpole, continue to fight against the discrimination and play the sport which they love most. Photo/Tessa Anzalone

Anzalone with her brother and father while they were on the same team.

Page 5

Sports

june 2026

Graphic/ Katy O’Brien Graphic/Katy O’Brien

Feature

Page 6

Massachusetts (103) UMass Amherst

Connor Alson Matthew Anastasi Sara Axelrod Abigail Boulger Ujas Dama Jackson Doherty Michael Federer William Fezzie Jason Hee Emma Kerin Blanka Lazri Daniel Le Leila Le Arnav Manjrekar Kylie McKeen Lily McManus Sawyer Regan Anshu Sirivella Victoria Terzyiska Jackson Towers AiVy Truong

Merrimack College

Samantha Aucella Sara Bianculli Keria Bradford Jack Collins Nora Kelley Katherine Rourke Milo Scally Adriana Shaughnessy Jake Stenstrom Kaylee Walsh

Westfield State University

John Bylsma Sean Connolly Charles Falzone Emerson Flores Reyes Thomas Morris Cole Pileski Joaquin Torres

Northeastern University

Jackson Buckley Madelyn Cunningham Siddharth Kumar Sophia Longo Caroline Manos Gokhan Yesil

Bentley University

Victoria Adams Blake Baker Jake Sardinha Tanay Singh Hansini Sivakumar

Dean College

Greyson Beauregard Nathan Gonzalez Luke O’Rourke Maria Quiñones Peralta Jack Souza

UMass Boston

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Bridgewater State University Kristen Barry Christopher Falvey Guinevere Haferd Kiera Hopewell

Massasoit Community College Grace Ayinza Noehly Pomales Esteves Braden Foote Kaylanie Hernandez

Curry College

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Emmanuel College

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Mass College of Art & Design Eve Brousaides Rebecca Chen Kaelin Fitzmaurice

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Feature

June 2026

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PAGE 7

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Feature

Page 6

Massachusetts (103) UMass Amherst

Merrimack College

Samantha Aucella Sara Bianculli Keria Bradford Jack Collins Nora Kelley Katherine Rourke Milo Scally Adriana Shaughnessy Jake Stenstrom Kaylee Walsh

Westfield State University

John Bylsma Sean Connolly Charles Falzone Emerson Flores Reyes Thomas Morris Cole Pileski Joaquin Torres

Northeastern University

Jackson Buckley Madelyn Cunningham Siddharth Kumar Sophia Longo Caroline Manos Gokhan Yesil

Bentley University

Victoria Adams Blake Baker Jake Sardinha Tanay Singh Hansini Sivakumar

Dean College

Greyson Beauregard Nathan Gonzalez Luke O’Rourke Maria Quiñones Peralta Jack Souza

UMass Boston

Luigi Francois Shahasree Keerthana Jerome Malary Alana Muller Srinidhi Valluru

Bridgewater State University Kristen Barry Christopher Falvey Guinevere Haferd Kiera Hopewell

Massasoit Community College Grace Ayinza Noehly Pomales Esteves Braden Foote Kaylanie Hernandez

Curry College

Aaron Bredmehl Ava Turner Gunnar Yost

Emmanuel College

Matthew Brown Demi Kaselis Audrey Tyszka

Mass College of Art & Design Eve Brousaides Rebecca Chen Kaelin Fitzmaurice

Stonehill College

Drake Grant Kate Jordan Ava MacLean Sophia Malone Griffin McCarthy Madeleine McDonald Shane O’Donnell Anna Pileggi Brady Thomas

St. Anselm College

Ava Bianculli Caitlin Caulfield John Cotter Timothy Gillis Ryan McDonald Bridget Tierney

Keene State College Faith Cullen

Lily Bissanti Keira Brennan Ava Nigro

Plymouth State University

Nicholas DeMelo Arnold Obour-Mensah Luke Zahurak

University of Tampa

Joseph Carter Daniel Morris

Florida Atlantic University

UMass Lowell

Mass Maritime Academy Tufts University

Sasha Feinstein Brennan Sullivan

Wentworth Institute of Technology Sean McLaughlin Marcus Shelton

Michael Donnelly

Florida (10)

Ryan Jackson Elisabeth Lunn Emily Meehan

Nathan Ambroceo Abbey Gondelman

Flagler College

Ellie Perlman

Rollins College

Anika Umapathy

University of Florida

Patrick Horgan

Worcester Polytechnic Institute University of Miami Pragya Nallaparaju Mayank Shah

UMass Dartmouth

Brooke Harrington Amanda Germain

Assumption University Caitlin Baker

Babson College

Katherine Schneider

Boston College

Keira Connors

Boston University

Kayla Jackson

Bunker Hill Community College Luis Quiroga Tobar

Endicott College

Juliet Massey

University of South Florida Ava Griffith

Connecticut (9)

Fairfield University

Isabella Bingham Kaitlin Byrnes Michael Conners Katherine Downs Dillon Needham

University of Connecticut Cole Brennan Michael Cesario

Sacred Heart University Maeve Monteith

Quinnipiac University

Emma Hanifin

Luke Weiand

Ariana Castillo

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MassBay Community College Suffolk University

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Saint Joseph’s University

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University of New Hampshire

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Page 9

Rethinking

physical

opinion

education

for

june 2026

athletes

Multi-sport athletes do not need the extra fitness that PE offers By Naya Karzoun Staff Writer Many students spend hours every week practicing sports for their school. These students are already physically active; however, are still required to take physical education (P.E.) classes at school. Because they are already exercising everyday, PE should be an optional class for students who play two or more sports. Athletic practice is often more intense than a regular PE class. Athletes practice for hours running drills, lifting weights and scrimmaging or playing during bi-weekly games. This keeps them active and healthy, which is the main goal of PE, defeating the purpose of the class. Making the class a requirement takes time away from them that they could be using to take other classes. Athletes have already been introduced to ideas of sportsmanship and fitness improvement. By participating in multiple sports, they are getting more practice in teamwork and leadership that they try to teach in PE. The people who haven’t practiced sportsmanship can still have the opportunity to stay active throughout the day by still taking the class.

Students can often feel intimidated performing against multi-sport athletes, making them act careless during class. Some may feel ashamed because they aren’t as athletic as others or because they lack the skills that athletes may have. If they perform against people on the same level, they may enjoy the class more and look forward to attending it. Another thing schools can do is separate grades in PE. People feel ashamed and embarrassed having to go against people older or younger than them. Students would be more relaxed if they were in a class with people their age because it increases their chances of comfortably interacting with their classmates. Some people may suggest that students would choose to opt out of PE just to avoid activity, but schools should set rules that make it fair. Only students who are on two or more sports teams should be allowed to opt out. This ensures that active students benefit from this rule, and the others can continue to get exercise in PE classes like usual. Allowing athletes to withdraw PE could also help them focus on other important things like school work. Giving athletes who usually have sports an ex-

tra period during the school day would be useful for them to take an elective they are interested in, or a class they need for their future career. Many student athletes have busy schedules and PE can feel like a waste of time added to their already busy day. Giving them this choice shows schools respect their students’ commitments to their sports and studies. The physical stress of participating in multiple sports and a mandatory PE class can also lead to unnecessary injuries. High school athletes often experience muscle strains, concussions and even bone injuries when participating in sports and some even get injured in PE class. Requiring

students to participate for a good grade and accidentally getting injured, sometimes leads them to not be able to play for the rest of the season just because of an avoidable injury in PE class. By letting students opt out of PE, schools would be helping students prevent unnecessary injuries that gives them a better chance to participate in their sports games. Students who play two or more sports should be allowed to opt out of PE. They are already physically active, learning teamwork and staying healthy. By giving them this option, schools can support hardworking athletes while still encouraging exercise for everyone else.

Photo/Caitlin McCabe

Graphic/ Naya Karzoun

Mandatory

class

limits

elective

choices.

Going to college undecided can benefit students Beginning school undeclared helps students discover their true interests By Nicky Mahoney Staff Writer For many high school seniors, choosing a college major feels like choosing what path to go down for the rest of your life. People expect 18-year-olds to know exactly what career they want before moving onto college. Although the decision is obvious for some, most students have little to no idea what they want to do. According to Drake University, around 70% of all college students will either apply to college undecided or will switch majors in their college careers. While some argue that this is a waste of time and money, going to college undecided has many benefits. In high school, it is difficult for kids to explore a wide variety of careers. Many students excel in multiple subjects and do not feel a strong desire to pursue studying in any specific one. Also, high school classes do not introduce students to a wide variety of studies. However, by going to college undecided, students can study multiple different majors in more depth. This allows students to fully understand what subjects they enjoy and foresee themselves pursuing it at a high-

er level. Going undecided allows students to explore new paths that they may have never been interested in before. Taking a year to explore multiple options sets students up for the most success. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics,around 30-50% of college students who go to school with a declared major will end up switching to a different field of study at least once. Within that group, one in every ten students switch their major more than once. Going to college un-

decided can help students to avoid the stress of switching majors and falling behind on both basic required courses and prerequisite classes specific for their major. By studying a variety of topics, it makes students feel more confident in the major they choose to continue with. Many people argue that going to college undecided has more disadvantages than advantages. Many believe that it will make students graduate late and waste tuition money. However, in college students are all

Graphic/ Nicky Mahoney

Breaking

stigma

not

immediately

chooaing

major.

required to take general education courses during their first year of school and while being an undecided major, one can opt out of the classes, as well as explore different career options. Taking an undecided first year will not cause the graduation process to be delayed. One can take most of their required classes so in future years one can take classes that are focused on their major. Going undecided does not change one’s year of graduation; therefore, it does not increase one’s tuition. By switching majors however, it is more likely to delay one’s graduation because they will be behind on both classes specific towards your major and basic required classes. While some students know what major they want to pursue their freshman year of college, many do not. Going to college undecided can be a beneficial idea for students who are unsure of what path of studies they want to pursue. It will open up opportunities to explore one’s interests more in depth than high school courses allow and make choosing a major a much more conclusive decision than it would have been before.

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Brady Thomas passes the baton to Ben Thomas Senior D1 commit supports his sophomore brother on the track By Molly Diggin Assistant Graphics Editor While most student athletes are competing with their peers and classmates, WHS senior Brady Thomas and sophomore Ben Thomas are in a unique position: competing as brothers. Both brothers participate in the WHS track program, and their bond as siblings helps them maintain healthy competition while encouraging each other to push themselves as athletes. Brady Thomas currently holds multiple school records, one being the 4x400m record set with his brother. The two of them set this record along with Sawyer Regan and Chris Butters with a time of 3:32.56, with Ben Thomas starting the relay and Brady Thomas being the last leg. “I think one day he will beat all my times and I am sure I will never hear the end of it, but I do hope that he breaks the records I set but I am definitely going to try to make that hard for him to do. But overall, my goals are for him to be better than me one day,” Brady Thomas said. The brothers have always been very competitive and finding a balance between

brothers, teammates and competitors can be challenging sometimes as Ben Thomas continued to progress in his times. “I do think it took time to learn a balance between competition between each other and competition between me and myself. I kept trying to beat him. I gave up on trying to beat myself and that led me to be complacent and not be the best I could be,” Brady Thomas said. As captain, Brady Thomas is able to help his younger brother as he develops along with motivating him. “Brady definitely motivated me on the track. Either if I am in his race or not, I can always hear him cheering for me and trying to push me to do better. If I am in his race, that competitive feeling comes back

and it pushes me to always try to catch him or run as fast as him and I have seen a lot of success in that,” Ben Thomas said. Before beginning his running career, Ben Thomas played both football and lacrosse, but after he joined winter track his freshman year, he decided to fully focus on track. He quit both other sports in order to join cross country his sophomore year in the fall. “The [track] environment was better and I felt like myself in track more than anywhere else or any other sport I have played. I had a bit of regret during that spring season last year, but after a few meets, I had no regrets and I was so happy to do it because I have met all my new friends and teammates who I feel are just like me,” Ben Thomas said. Brady Thomas has a great Photo/Dave Forester

Graphic/GraceSavickas

Next year, Ben Thomas will stay in Walpole while Brady Thomas goes to UNH

impact on his brother throughout his time at Walpole and messages Ben with pre-race plans and pieces of support before each meet. In practice during workouts, Brady Thomas has been able to push and motivate his brother to achieve his best, along with providing constructive criticism. Practice is six days a week for two plus hours and both brothers have said that track has brought them closer together. Although sports at the high school level are competitive, the two are always supporting each other and the rest of the team. When the brothers are put in the same race, it pushes one another to do better and be the best that they can be. “My one piece of advice to [Ben] would be to be patient. And that goes for a lot of different things as well. Progress takes time, a lot of people will train and not see results immediately and just give up right then and there when in reality it takes time,” Brady Thomas said. As Brady Thomas graduates as the class of 2026 and leaves Walpole High School to run Division I track and field at the University of New Hampshire, he continues to pass the baton to his brother.

Searchlight alumni purse journalism professionally

Former editors reflect on their experinces as staff of the WHS newspaper By Liv Fezzie Lifestyle Editor

Walpole High School’s newspaper, the Searchlight, formally known as the Rebellion, is student-run, creating issues distributed to the school. Throughout the years, many students who have worked on the staff as an editor or writer have gone on to carry their knowledge and experiences gained from Walpole into a media-related major in college or for the production of a city or state-wide distributed newspaper. Toby Moses, class of 2023 and Sports Editor at the Searchlight, is a journalism major at Boston University, now the Managing Co-Editor for Boston University’s student newspaper, the Daily Free Press. “Working at The Searchlight was extremely rewarding. Outside of helping me grow as a writer, I became familiar with the process and extensive work that goes into publishing a newspaper,” Moses said. ”From my junior year on, I knew I wanted to pursue journalism professionally.” After graduating from Emerson College in 2023 with a major in journalism, Editorin-Chief during 2019, Jess Ferguson is currently a Copy Editor for The Guardian U.S. “I started to consider pursuing journalism after my

class watched ‘Spotlight’ in my first year of journalism as a sophomore,” Ferguson said. Quinnipiac University student, and current Quinnipiac Chronicle Arts and Entertainment Editor, Sophie Murray, journalism major, graduated from WHS after serving as the 2025 Editor-in-Chief. “What I’ve carried into college most from The Searchlight is an understanding that journalism is never a solo effort. Everything — from writing to editing to layout — depends on collaboration, and I have learned how important it is to trust the process and the people you are working with to create the final product,” Murray said. “Remember that every story has value, no matter what you’re writing.” Erin Foley, University of Mississippi graduate, finished college with a dual degree in Journalism and Integrated Marketing Communications. From a young

age, Foley knew she wanted to be a journalist as soon as she started working for the Searchlight. “Don’t take criticism from someone you wouldn’t take advice from,” Erin Foley said. “Don’t get pigeonholed!” 2022-2023 Co-Editor-inChief and current Merrimack University student, Kristyn Dentremont, advises people to embrace new challenges when working on a newspaper. From her years working on the Searchlight staff, Dentremont has a wide variety of forever memorable projects and articles from the Searchlight, specifically works including “Artificial dyes: designer or deadly,” in addition to several creatively-inspired visual media pieces. “Be obsessively grateful. Twenty seconds of courage can change the course of your life. Be brave, even if it’s for less than a minute a day,” Dentremont said. WHS class of 2024 and current University of Massachu-

Graphic/ Liv Fezzie

Six

Searchlight

alumni

their

experiences

pursuing

journalism.

setts Amherst student, Ciara Foley, was the Editor-in-Chief at the Searchlight in 2024. With a dual degree in Psychology and Communication, a minor in business and a certificate in International Scholars, Foley is now the Website Manager for the UMass PRSSA. She also treasures her NESPA award for a co-written article reviewing a Puss-in-Boots movie. “It takes a massive team to produce articles and paperswith that there is a lot less flexibility time-wise,”Ciara Foley said. “While it seems a bit intense at first, it is great exposure to efficiency in a fast-paced environment!” These former WHS students have been a significant part of the Searchlight’s history, in which their memorable skills and dedication to the newspaper will never be forgotten. “[The Searchlight staff] spent hours working hard towards publishing a newspaper and/or articles and it felt so beyond rewarding to achieve that with people that wanted it just as badly as I did,” Ciara Foley said. “Being Editor-in-Chief pushed me far out of my comfort zone and there were extremely stressful moments, but being able to rise above those nerves and still enjoy the creative process with the team reminded me why I love Journalism in the first place.”

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