45 1

Winter 2017

THE PAW PRINT Wilde Lake High School, 5460 Trumpeter Rd. Columbia, MD 21044

Volume 45 Issue I

Gifted Players Accept Early Offers to Play College Soccer

Junior goalkeeper Jenna Hutchison during a varsity soccer game.

Photo submitted by Roy Hutchison

By Rachel Henry Juniors Julianna Bonner and Jenna Hutchison have committed nearly a year earlier than the average high schooler to play collegiate soccer. As active, talented, starting members of the girls varsity soccer team since their freshman years, these players represent a growing number of

athletes who are accepting offers to college before their senior years.

Early offers to play college sports are becoming increasingly popular according to “ The New York Times,” as colleges scout students as early as middle school.

But the players have a lot to consider before they make their choices.

Jenna Hutchison, starting goalkeeper,

Howard County Makes Changes to Lockdown Procedures

By Jane Hilger

Across the county, schools have tightened up on lockdown procedures, a response to a growing concern for gun violence across the nation.

According to “The LA Times,” a gun has been fired on school grounds almost once a week since the events of Sandy Hook. In October of this year alone, gun violence and mass shootings has caused 86 deaths. This has been a cause of concern for many parents and students who are worried about their safety.

One such concern according to senior Ethan Lee is that “Wilde Lake has a lot of doors on all sides of the school.”

Managing the entry and exit of students, staff, and community members is one problem the administration continually monitors, said assistant principal Mr. Crouse.

Mr. Crouse wants people to know that the Howard County lockdown procedures have been changed as a response to these growing concerns.

According to Mr. Crouse, the main change is that lockdown procedures have been redesigned to protect students against an active shooter. “The

is currently committed to George Mason “I had spreadsheets, I was tracking University. “You are not given a lot of room schools that had my majors, and looking at to turn complacent and stop working for the highest levels of schools,” she said. it. [The teams]fill up their rosters quick, so Bonner explains she had a similar you have to get on their radar before you course of action to find the best school miss your chance with that school.” possible.

Along with the pressure of committing “It’s about finding a college that fits with early, earning a spot on their future teams your academics, and fits with your playing can be difficult. skills.,” said Julianna Bonner, starting Verbal commitment doesn’t give them Striker for the Cats, committed to Lehigh an “automatic in” for the college that they University. choose. Verbal commitment “The process that I took still requires the player to apply “I took my time, to become committed was considered the slow and thoughtful for the and get into the college, though they may have a better chance of offers I had, visited recruiting process,” said acceptance. This commitment multiple schools, Bonner. “I️ took my time, can also be ended on either side and made it clear considered the offers I️ had, of the deal at any time, due to that I wanted to visited multiple schools, and various reasons. commit my junior made it clear that I️ wanted to Junior Lily Dunbar was commit my junior year.” year” verbally committed to UMBC Though these students are to play for their team in college, -Julianna Bonner already preparing for college but in November of 2017, the experiences, the girls agree UMBC coaching staff was replaced. The that having experience on a high school coaches were dismissed, along with her varsity team has helped them develop the commitment to the team. skills needed for college level.

“I definitely was not expecting it,” said “I think being a starter since Dunbar. “The coach had a contract with freshman year really helps me and relates the school until 2018, but when the team tremendously to the college aspect,” said played poorly UMBC bought out the Bonner. “You get that team camaraderie, contract and replaced the coaching staff.” and the sense of playing with seniors who While setbacks with these are possible have experience. ” due to loose contracts, Dunbar plans to In the end, a lot of work goes into “keep her options open” and make her choosing the “best” school. For Dunbar, decision from there. who is still looking at offers and colleges, With all of these possible hindrances, “It’s about not freaking out, talking to finding the perfect college isn’t always the coaches and family, considering your easiest task. For Hutchison, it took a lot of options, and trusting that you’ll eventually planning and searching. end up in the spot that’s right for you.”

biggest change is that the police are going to get into the building ASAP to try to confront or find the shooter as soon as possible,” said Mr. Crouse.

According to Mr. Crouse, during the school day most doors around the school are locked during the day, with the exception of the two front doors, which are monitored by the front office staff. All visitors who enter through these doors must check in with the front office. This is to limit the number of outsiders and potential threats entering the building.

In addition, all Wilde Lake staff have gone through emergency procedures training, and Howard County schools are required to hold 16 emergency drills each school year to make sure everyone involved is well prepared in case of an emergency.

Still, Mr. Crouse says that a large responsibility should fall on staff and students. “We should keep our eyes and ears open and report any suspicious activity to an administrator,” he said.

BSAP Focuses on Outreach

By Maddie Sommers When freshman Ryan Moment-Stromon won the 2017 Black Student Achievement Program’s essay contest, he was shocked.

“It was just amazing, most of the other participants were 11th or 12th graders and I didn’t think that I stood a chance. I was surprised, cheerful, and glad,” he said. “In the beginning I didn’t know if I had enough confidence to participate, but I ended up seeing and realizing how I can do better in life and now I have more confidence to show my talents in the future.”

The purpose of the contest was to both familiarize students with political leader and activist Marcus Garvey and to reflect on the importance of confidence in life, said BSAP liaison Mr. Nicks.

Wilde Lake welcomed Marcus

Nicks as the new BSAP liaison in 2017. “I enjoy knowing when I get up in the morning that I will be able to impact the lives of African American students in a positive way,” he said.

Mr. Nicks plans to focus on outreach and making a positive change in the lives of his new students while getting to know the Wilde Lake community this year.

Sophomore Khiera Tuck has already benefited from the empowerment and feeling of community that the Black Student Achievement Program has provided for her. “BSAP has given me an outlet that makes me feel like I can make a change in the world,” she said. “It has given me people I can connect with and relate to. It’s a great way to bring together a group of people.”

2 “The Paw Print” Introduces New Staff Science: Ms.Shakoor

By Jane Hilger Sabrina Shakoor, Howard County alumni, is a new addition to the Howard County staff, teaching Biology at Hammond High School in the morning, and Chemistry at our school in the afternoons.

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She graduated from Long Reach High School in 2012 and attended HCC for two years. She then attended UMBC where she received her undergraduate degree in Biology and Secondary Science Education.

Before teaching in Howard County, she taught Biology 2 and Chemistry 3 in Baltimore City.

I am looking forward to giving back to the community where I grew up, and giving back to the students to help them achieve their goals,” said Ms. Shakoor. She is excited to bring her past experience and love of science to Wilde Lake.

WILDE LAKE WELCOMES NEW PRINCIPAL Replacing Mr. LeMon as School Principal, Mr. Wilson Makes School Culture A Priority

Left: Principal Mr. Wilson with assistant principals Ms. Jensen and Ms. Cherry Center and Right: Mr. Wilson when he taught at Wilde Lake in the 1990’s.

Social Studies:Mr. Press

By Hannah Van-Osdel Joseph Press is the newest addition to the Social Studies department at Wilde Lake High School.

He graduated with a degree in History from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia.

Mr. Press attended both undergraduate and graduate school at the university, before moving to Maryland to pursue a job in Howard County.

He is teaching United States History and American Government and Politics at the school.

Mr. Press’ favorite part of the job is his “ability to build relationships” with his students in his class. Mr. Press is able to relate and have fun with his students, “They are like my friends,” he said. He hopes that his enthusiastic energy will be felt across the building throughout the year.

FACS: Mr. Ridgeway

By Maddie Sommers After 18 years of teaching in Northern Virginia, Keith Ridgeway joins Wilde Lake as the new FACS teacher.

Mr. Ridgeway looks forward to teaching both the advanced, and basic Food and Nutrition classes.

His passion for food started at a young age.

“I learned how to cook growing up watching the Food Network. It’s really what got me into cooking,” he said. This started his desire to want to teach young people how to cook.

He encourages students of all capabilities to learn about nutrition and how to cook. “It’s a practical life skill...everyone is capable of learning and everybody can be successful at it,” he said.

He is excited to be teaching at Wilde Lake, and hopes to spread his love of cooking with his new students.

By Hope Kahn 30 years ago, Mr. Wilson started his career here at Wilde Lake.

As soon as Mr. Wilson began his position as principal of our school, he made it his priority to put students first.

Since the first day on the job, one of his main focuses has been building relationships with the students, staff, and community members.

“The sign on my door says principal, but that means nothing to everyone who doesn’t know me already,” he said. “I haven’t earned your respect, and that title doesn’t mean anything as far as trust and building that relationship.”

Mr. Wilson started his career here

at the Lake 30 years ago, where he was a science teacher for six years and an assistant principal for four years. He was then an AP at Glenelg High, as well as an AP at Mt. Hebron High School. He has also been principal of Glenwood Middle School, Folly Quarter, and Murray Hill Middle School.

He has always been one to ensure that he formed relationships with the students in his past schools, so this is not new to him. However, the difference in school size can be a challenge, said Mr. Wilson. “I’ve always prided myself on getting to know the students of my middle schools, but it was a little bit easier with 700 students. It’s a little more daunting with 1400, but I’m going to

Math: Ms. Harrison

By Stella Johnson Ms. Harrison has joined the Wildecats as a new Math Analysis and Geometry teacher for this school year. Ms. Harrison is joining our school this year after working as a

student teacher at Marriotts Ridge High School after graduating from college, She is a Wilde Lake alumna and said she absolutely loved attending school here. So, she was super excited when she saw she had an opportunity to come back and teach math at her alma mater.

Ms. Harrison attended Towson University to study math and education.

She is excited to join the Wilde Lake staff for her first year of teaching.

do my very best to be out and about and have folks know at least who I am,” he said.

He’s forming new relationships everyday. You can find Mr. Wilson in the hallway talking to students, checking in and saying hi to the teachers, or at lunch going around shaking hands and giving highfives.

“I know that I have huge shoes to fill,” said Mr. Wilson. “Mr. LeMon has been the face of Wilde Lake for six years. I can’t be Mr. LeMon because it would be impossible for me to do that, but I’m going to be the best Rick Wilson I can be for Wilde Lake.”

English: Ms.Gottlieb

By Sarah Rubin Lisa Gottlieb has always loved words. While she was growing up, she knew she “wanted to be a writer, or a lawyer, or just something with words.” An English teacher with 28 years of

experience, Ms Gottlieb brings that love of words to Wilde Lake’s English department.

To her, the best part of being a teacher is being able to work with her students.

“It’s such an incredible thing to just meet so many new people,” she says.

Her students recognize her love for teaching. “She’s really passionate about teaching,” said a junior.

“When I started student teaching, it was the most striking, lightbulb moment,” Ms. Gottlieb said.

Teaching ended up being something she enjoyed greatly, she said, “It just felt so… right.”

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New BSAP Liaison Mr. Nicks Hopes to Empower Students With Winning Mindsets

“Don’t operate from a position of weakness but operate from a position of strength.”

Mr. Nicks joins the Wilde Lake community as the new BSAP Liaison.

By Ihsaan Fanusie Marcus Nicks is bringing a new spirit of positivity and character building to students and teachers in his first year at Wilde Lake.

Mr. Nicks, Black Student Achievement Program Liaison, has made it his goal to help students achieve their best selves.

Mr. Nicks previously worked at Patuxent Valley Middle School as the BSAP Liaison.

At PVMS, Mr. Nicks improved the community in a way that he also hopes to achieve here. He equipped students with relevant skills, including study habits and academic focus through confidence, motivation, and inspiration.

His main goal was to “increase the achievement of AfricanAmerican students.” This can be completed through “mentoring,

academic goal setting, grade spotting, and giving students the strategies to succeed in school,” he said.

“I like making personal connections with students,” said Mr. Nicks. He loves to meet new students and hear different perspectives within the community.

“You constantly hear this theme of defeat,” said Mr. Nicks.

“You constantly hear this theme of African Americans being the victim or not really doing many positive things.”

Some students, Mr. Nicks says, see themselves as victims instead of leaders. His goal is to get rid of the ‘victim mentality’ and show students how to act with selfconfidence and pride.

Mr. Nicks hopes to empower students with the advice: “Don’t operate from a position of

Mr. Mazzeo Fills Opening in Guidance

By Aenilah Watkins Brian Mazzeo, Wilde Lake’s new guidance counselor, entered the school with a new perspective on how to handle his responsibilities for his students this school year.

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“I’m happy to be here, I’m still processing a lot,” said Mr. Mazzeo. “The counselors here have been helping me out along the way. I’m just staying patient and asking a lot of questions.”

With goals to take his students far with “an increased self-esteem,” Mr. Mazzeo is looking forward to working more at the “diverse, spirited, and prideful” Wilde Lake.

weakness but operate from a position of strength.” This can be achieved through teaching about Black History outside of the annual Black History Month presentation, and building positive relationships.

Another mission that Mr. Nicks has is to help students build, and understand the importance of those positive relationships.

In the BSAP, Mr. Nicks gives students strategies to improve relationships with teachers, administrators, and peers.

Students will be provided with opportunities and resources to put them in the best position to be successful.

Mr. Nicks hopes to bring a winning mindset to students at Wilde Lake as the new BSAP liaison.

Superintendent Dr. Martirano Encourages Teachers to “Get To Know” Students

Dr. Martiano has assumed the position of the interim superintendent of Howard County.

By Hope Kahn As students started the school year, they might have noticed a change in the introductions of their classes. Dr. Martirano encouraged all teachers to leave the syllabi behind and get to know their students in the first few days with engagement activities, a practice that he himself has modeled in his first few months as superintendent.

All students need to be “valued and embraced in our community,” he said. This would make HCPSS a “pluralistic society,” where even though everyone believes in different things, everyone is respected. He believes this would strengthen the school system.

Dr. Michael Martirano assumed the position of Superintendent of Howard County Public Schools when Dr. Renee Foose stepped down from the position this May.

Dr. Martirano started the year by introducing a mission statement titled ‘Leading and Learning With Equity: The Fierce Urgency of Now.’ Dr. Martirano advocates for a more “restorative” approach to school management. Punishment is not the way to correct kids’ behaviors, he says. “We should teach, not punish.”

Dr. Martirano’s philosophy is evident in classes around our school, where students take part in “restorative circles.”

Martirano will continue putting his “children” first in order to ensure that “every child belongs and is accepted into the school system without bias, racism and hatred.”

Ms. Farro Transitions to Alternative Education Department

Ms. Farro convienes with students and staff in the media center

By Rachel Henry and Kareem Press When Charlie Shoemaker retired last school year, the head of the Academic Support

Department and Alternate Education Coordinator became open.

The experienced Laura Farro, a previous Italian teacher here at the Lake, stepped in to take charge.

The Academic Support Department was made to help students who are struggling to meet their academic needs. The goal for the department is to encourage kids in order to keep them intellectually involved with school.

Ms. Farro knows she’ll be able to get to know her students personally, and get to help them and our community.

“I feel really good about it,” said Ms. Farro. “I’m excited [that I] get to know the kids and be of service to them and the community.”

Along with her ambition for the job, assistant principal Ms. Foyles thinks that Ms. Farro is “an amazing fit.”

“Students love her, she’s very professional,

understanding, patient, and her insight is very beneficial to the program,” said Ms. Foyles.

Ms. Farro goal is to watch the students she teaches walk across stage for graduation “It would be a great honor to know that I made a [difference] in kids lives,” she said.

Working as part of the Wilde Lake staff has brought her a feeling of comfort for her to do her job.

“The community here is the best, it feels like I am a part of a family,” said Ms. Farro. “There is always a spot for everyone.” “Being in the Wilde Lake community only strengthens [me] to be the best I can.”

“I want to inspire people. I want someone to look “Her optimism on life and on people impacted everything.”

-Ms. Sweitzer, teacher

Amaiyah Ringgold and Laura Wallen together at going away party for Mr. Ringgold

“She wasn’t just a teacher, she was a mentor.”

-Leslie Alvarez, senior “She was creative, thoughtful, and cared deeply about all students.”

-Ms. Dixon, teacher

(Left to Right) Ms. Volpe, Mr. Townsend, Ms. Wallen, Mr. Shoemaker, and Ms. Neubauer performing at Struting With the Staff

(Left to Right) Alex Tummings, Laura Wallen, Morgan Becker, Ms. Young, Brynn Drury, Rachel Lazris, and Gabrielle Swain, in Europe

Left to Right: Ms. Startt, Ms. Wallen, Mrs. Hibbard, Ms. Volpe, and Ms. Cherry

“She was always prepared to help us with anything we needed.”

-Adanya Hobson, senior “It’s the little things, the smile in the hallway, the talks.”

-Ms. Hibbard, teacher “She embodied the spirit of Wilde Lake better than anyone else.”

-Ms. Garbutt, teacher

Community Mourns Dea Laura Wallen was someone loved and cared for by many: her students, co-workers, friends, and family members. Her passing brought Wilde Lake to a standstill for days, and over those days, the Wilde Lake community came together to support one another, with the same goal in mind, to mourn, remember, and carry on.

In the day following Ms. Wallen’s passing, students and staff sought

comfort both in each other and in the teams of support sent to Wilde Lake to manage the crisis. The Howard County Crisis Team was available at Wilde Lake for students who needed someone to talk to.

Many in the student body stood together, and showed their sorrow through wearing black. Through the day, the hallways, which in the morning were shockingly silent, slowly came to life, and in the days

Community Gathers to Pray and Remember

By Maddie Sommers

Hundreds gathered on October 4 at the Interfaith Center to hold a candlelight vigil in honor of Laura Wallen, beloved teacher who died unexpectedly.

Students, colleagues, and friends took turns lighting candles and writing letters and stories to be passed on to Ms. Wallen’s family. Her father, along with her pastor, former students, and members of the Wilde Lake faculty delivered tributes to Ms. Wallen’s unique and impactful contributions to Wilde Lake.

The event, coordinated by the Student Government Association working in tandem

with students, was created to help heal the community, and it did just that. Social Studies teacher Jessica Nichols reminisced on the night: “We stood there and we held each other and reflected… I know it sounds kind of simple, but it was beautiful and meaningful to us.”

Ms. Kipping, a Science teacher, believes that the vigil had a positive impact on its attendees.

“Ms. Wallen was an amazing person, there was a lot to honor,” said Ms. Kipping. “Having the students and teachers speak and mourn together seemed like it was a good way to honor her life and remember her legacy.”

Studen

“She showed that she cared about By: Anjali DasSarma Editor in Chief 2015-2017 For two years, Laura Wallen taught me about the world, and about being kind to other people. I didn’t understand it at the time, but she wasn’t just teaching us the curriculum or straight out of the textbook. She was also teaching us about what she knew best: deeply caring about everyone. No matter who you were, Ms Wallen showed that she cared about every individual from the bottom of her heart.

The kind of loss that her family and that Wilde Lake has suffered is unimaginable. I knew Ms Wallen well. Besides taking World History and Law and the Citizen with her, I was there, recording when she received the Teacher of the Year award for 2016.

Getting pulled aside and told that Ms Wallen was going to be surprised with her Teacher of the Year Award was amazing.

We all knew that Ms Wallen deserved it. Not every teacher cared as much as she did. We all lined up outside her room,

me with cam or flowers or face. When from confus a moment I’ have gone to I’m now r reason I am passed on to the kind of students, and I know ex Wilde Lake a exactly what and think it the kind of p It wasn’t wh heart, she we cardigan and

k at me and say ‘because of you, I didn’t give up” -Laura Wallen 1986-2017

ath of Loved Teacher, Laura Wallen following, Wilde Lake remembered the spirit of Ms. Wallen as positive and always uplifting.

Mr. Wilson, our principal, was faced with an unthinkable tragedy as he started his new position.

Although the loss was devastating, Mr. Wilson was amazed to how the community united to grieve and cope.

As a tribute to Ms. Wallen, the SGA held a commemorative

ceremony called the Celebration of Life. Here, friends, students, and colleagues voiced many touching remembrances of Ms. Wallen.

In addition to the heartwarming speeches, there were meaningful musical performances performed in Ms. Wallen’s honor.

All of Howard County was devastated, and showed their support and sympathy to the best of their ability. Other schools provided breakfast, lunches, and letters to our

staff, and ice cream to our students.

The gifts allowed our school to feel as though we weren’t alone in this time of grief.

This school year has been one that most students will never forget, and has changed our lives forever.

However, Ms. Wallen has changed students lives for the better. She would want her students, her friends, and all of Wilde Lake to continue living their best lives.

nts, teachers, and friends attended a candlelight vigil this past October to commemorate the life of Laura Wallen

“I’m Stronger Having Known You”

By Ms. Volpe, Social Studies teacher

Dear Laura, I have been thinking about the last few conversations we had.

When you called me this summer to tell me you were pregnant.

When you came in and helped me with imovie. There are so many memories running through my head. So many things that were left unsaid, so many stories left to share. There are so many more memories we are suppose to share.

I have been thinking a lot lately about this last year, about how we got to know each other better. I have to be honest about a few things.

I was anxious when I learned I had to float into your room last year.

As I started to float, things did not get better. You gave me a lot of side eyes as I rearranged your room. Your technology and room setup frustrated me on more than one occasion. I know that my 9th grader noise level and excitement for learning frustrated you. I broke your map; it came crashing down. I put it back up (not correctly, btw).

That reminds me, maybe I should tell the new teacher about that…

But here is the thing…you and I got close last year. More than coworkers close, or go to happy hour every once in a while, but call each other over the summer close. Make plans close. You became part of my classes and I became a staple who walked in and out of your 1st and 2nd period.

There are so many memories that I will miss. I will miss Waffle Wednesdays, I will miss interrupting your class, I will miss your unlimited supply of Iced Tea. I will miss your running down the hall after the late bell with a jug of ice to 1st period. I will miss relying on you to make movies for Social Studies electives and for teacher dances.

I will miss your excitement about education and learning new things.

I will miss your ability to share all your talents generously. I will miss your enthusiasm for travel both near and far. I will miss debating rooms and class schedules with you. I will miss your sharing your love and passion with everyone you meet, whether through jewelry or your tech savvy or your crafty side. And above all else I will miss your amazing empathy and ability to look at someone and know when they are happy or when they are not. When you can look at me and know that I am not ok, but let me be because you know I struggle to talk about things sometimes. And in this moment when I just need a person who knows but doesn’t push you are not in your room, or running down the hall. And that makes this so much harder. I would do anything for a Wallen look across a room or an offer of tea, because that makes everything better. I will miss my co-worker, I will miss my teammate, and I will miss my friend.

As I sit here and write this I rack my brain for all the memories because I am afraid of forgetting. I can’t help but think of all the time we do not have. I try to remember all the memories, all the last times because I did not know that they would be our last and yet they are.

So I sit here and piece them together… I know the pieces will come and I will put them together and although it will never be the same without you I know I will be stronger for having known you.

-Volpe

t every individual from the bottom of her heart.”

mera in hand, and everyone else with balloons r the banner. Everyone had a smile on his or her we burst in, interrupting her class, her face went sed to that bright smile we all knew so well. It was ’ll never forget. That kind of recognition could not o anyone more deserving than Ms Wallen. reminded that her letter of recommendation is the at college right now. Her glowing words of praise o my now advisor convinced UMBC that I was person who belonged here. She took care of her d that shone through in her letter for me. xactly what she would want from every person at and every person whose heart she touched. I know t she wanted from me. Every day, I will wake up t’s my job to live up to her expectations. She was person with high expectations for human character. hether you were “smart” to her, if you had a good elcomed you with open arms wrapped in a comfy d a Keurig. I just want everyone who loves her to

know that her impact was so widespread. She was truly one of the teachers who went above and beyond teaching, and genuinely made a difference in people’s lives. She always asked how we were doing, a little check-in that reminded us that yes, someone does care.

To honor her, I do a different check-in with myself. Will this enrich someone’s life? That’s a question I ask myself before I take actions. Every action Ms Wallen took enriched someone’s life.

Even though this was incredibly tragic, I hope that the communities she was a part of are coping. I hope that anyone who knew her will remember her lessons. In 2015, she posted on Facebook “I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say ‘because of you, I didn’t give up.’”

Ms Wallen, because of you, I didn’t give up, and I will live everyday for you and in your memory.

Dealing With Loss Dealing with grief and loss is different in every single person and is expressed in many different ways. When Ms. Wallen’s death unexpectedly occurred, you may have reacted in confusion, sorrow, guilt, fear, etc. Whether Ms. Wallen was your teacher, friend, or colleague, the important thing to remember is that the Wilde Lake community as a whole will always be there for eachother.

An important part of dealing with loss is accepting, and letting out your feelings. As a student, you are given many resources including teachers, guidance counselors, and phone numbers you may call if you are in need of someone to listen, or talk to.

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

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Spirits, Specters, and Spooks! “Blithe Spirit” is “Magic”

By Trinity Williams

John Woods, Laura McHale, Kyle Schuster, Abu Ahmed, Lucy Flippen, Garrett Boettger, Sarah Rubin, Laura Krell, Tristan Webster, and Sam Russell perform in the fall production.

Submitted by LiefeTouch

Wilde Lake’s fall production of “Blithe Spirit” was not your average classic. It included magic, resurrection, and had the audience jumping out of their seats.

“All of the stage magic that happened. All the special effects and the séance on stage. The prop magic that the stage crew did, that’s what made the show exciting,” said Mrs. Adler, the theater director.

The play is set in England, starting off with a man named Charles who is a comedic writer, and needed an idea for his book.

Charles has a ritual with a medium, who brings Charles’ first wife, Elvira, back from the dead.

Mrs. Adler explained that the show was “what we call a drawing room comedy, meaning the entire play was in a living room.”

For the school’s plays, Mrs. Adler switches back and forth between modern musicals and classics.

Last year, the drama department presented “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” a classic, and “Seussical,” a modern take on the books of Dr. Seuss. This year, Mrs. Adler decided to switch the style to

Senior Hailey Adler Founds “Cat R Acts,” an Improve Group Giving Students a Creative Outlet

Hayley Adler performing in the fall production of “Blithe Spirit” Submitted by LifeTouch

By Sarah Rubin This year senior Hayley Adler is bringing improv to Wilde Lake by founding “Cat R Acts,” adding to the depth of the theatre department.

Adler came up with the idea to start her own improv group at Wilde Lake after participating in ACI - All County Improv. All County Improv is an improv group comprised of 24 students, two from each high school in

the county. After her involvement with ACI, she decided to start Cat R Acts, an improv troupe at Wilde Lake.

The idea of improv changes depending on the person. Improv, to Laura McHale, a freshman, is “being able to connect to someone onstage while making up a scene. It’s something special,” she said. To Adler, improv is “creating a story with other people.”

This brand new club meets after-

school on Wednesdays, and everyone is welcome, said Adler. No matter what grade you’re in, or how much experience you have with improv, Cat R Acts is open to all. Adler aims for the group to be a “safe place for students to have fun and be themselves.”

“I hope Cat R Acts gives drama students a bigger foot in the door in the Wilde Lake theatre department, and I hope that more students will take theatre, as well as have a love for it, like I do,” said Adler.

Skyler Merchant, a freshman, went to one of the club’s meetings because she wanted to try something new. “I’m not really comfortable with improv yet, but I think it’ll be a lot of fun,” she said.

Improv is not only beneficial in the troupe, but also in the real world, said Merchant. “If there’s ever a conflict, I’ll always have the ability to think of something on the spot.”

“I don’t know if there will be a performance,” said Adler, “I hope that in the future they have a performance, but for now, I’m just happy with a successful scene here and there.”

“All that I’ve done is answer demands for an improv troupe and planted a seed that I hope will sprout into something wonderful for the drama department something new and different.”

this 1940’s classic.

“The last couple of years we did two musicals. This year, we did a traditional classic literature. The dialogue was difficult, the accents were difficult, and it made us really raise the bar,” she said.

The main characters included Charles Condomine, played by Romeil Johnson, Efe Unuigbe as Ruth Condomine, Hayley Adler as Madame Arcati, Carolyn Ingham as Mrs. Bradman, Michael Oduro as Dr. Bradman, and finally Elvira Condomine, played by Maggie VanVranken.

“I think the way the show was casted improved the quality of the show,” said Efe Unuigbe. “We’re all such good friends. I think all the people in the show have great dynamics.”

Mrs. Adler said that the most “exciting” thing about this play was that she was assisted by her former senior student that works at Carver School of the Arts in Baltimore County.

“There was a lot of magic that happens in the show,” said Romeil Johnson. “It really came to life.”

JV Games Cut By 20 Percent

By Bryan Shin This year, in an effort to balance the budget, the Howard County Public School System has made a 20 percent cut to junior varsity games.

Brian Rau, the Athletics and Activities Manager at our school approximates that the Howard County school board saved around $50,000 - $70,000 by cutting JV games.

Several coaches have expressed concern with the time reduction that they say hurt their teams.

Mr. Townsend, the JV soccer coach, believes that the cuts didn’t allow his team to reach their full potential. “As it was, we were already pressed for time.

As soon as we got on a roll, as soon as we caught our stride, our season was over,” he said. “For teams at Wilde Lake High School in particular, kids don’t participate as much in recreational and travel teams, those extra games helped us to be competitive.”

Mr Rau believes that, “It’s fair in the regards that all JV sports were cut at all schools,” said Rau. “I personally am not a fan of it. I would prefer to not have cuts to JV games.”

Godswill Enomanna, a sophomore on JV soccer thought the cuts negatively impacted him. “I feel as if I had more time in the season, I would have made more progress.”

The cut from JV sports will continue to affect the teams throughout the year.

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News & Features

Wilde Lake’s Teen Parenting Program Serves Students Countywide

Students use Wilde Lake’s daycare program during the school day.

By Sarah Rubin The Teen Parenting Program at Wilde Lake High School is important for teen mothers in the county because it allows them to further their education while getting support for their child at the same time.

Wilde Lake High School is the only

high school in all of Howard County with a daycare for teenagers who have children.

If they didn’t go to Wilde Lake before the birth of their child, they had to request a change of school. The program provides care for the children throughout the school day, diapers and clothes if needed, and parenting lessons. However, it also makes sure the mothers can get the education they need and deserve.

“They have to apply to the program from their home school and the counselor there fills out a whole packet of information asking grades, attendance, everything,” said our school’s Guidance Counselor Ms. Pruitt. “They submit it to the teen parenting program, which is Ms. Anderson.”

There is a committee that meets and looks at the application before inviting the family in to talk. If their request gets denied or if the program is full, the student will stay at their home school. “The childcare is up for the family to provide if they’re not accepted,” said Ms. Pruett.

Program Director Kazandra Anderson

Are Phones and Social Media Affecting Mental Health in Adolescents Today?

By Stella Johnson According to “The New York Times,” anxiety rates in adolescents are increasing rapidly, and researchers are linking that anxiety to smartphones and social media.

According to “The Times,” social media has become a platform where young people Joanna Amaya and Taha Nasir use feel a false responsibility to live social media to connect with friends up to unrealistic expectations hard for students to ignore. online.

I think my phone causes me “With social media, you are now constantly on display,” said to feel stressed and anxious,” said Mrs. Dixon, a parent as well sophomore Rachel Van Osdel, as a teacher of Independent “because social media puts Research and Intern Mentor at pressure on us to be something Wilde Lake. “Everything you we’re not.”

According to “The Times,” do, say, or make can be recorded with or without your knowledge many schools in the United online, and it’s become a culture States are creating special of excruciating criticism. Teens programs for students who face extreme anxiety that interferes aren’t nice to each other.”

Mei Zheng, a senior, has with their school attendance recognized this growing and academic performance.

Junior Hanna Lin believes addiction to our phones. “If I do not have my phone, I am that “at the end of the day, it constantly thinking, what if depends on how use your phone. someone texts me or calls me? It’s not the phone that creates What if there’s an emergency? the anxiety, but using it in an We depend on our phones for unhealthy way can contribute.”

According to Junior Joanna everything,” said Zheng.

Today, anxiety has become Amaya cell phones offer a the top mental health concern positive benefit: they allow her to in the United States, and it has communicate with friends and largely surpassed depression as family. However, She recognizes an issue for which young people, that teenagers are always on especially adolescents, seek out social media and that you have help, according to “The Times.” to “be liked by everyone.”

“I would tell people who are In addition, rates of attempted suicide in youth have doubled always on their phones,” said Amaya “that if something is in the past decade.

As much as we love our stressing them out, that they phones and social media, the should put their phone down. negative effects are becoming It’s not that important.”

said, “They learn to care for their kids, but at the same time they can get their education that they need to graduate and move further in life.”

Though this program has been around for awhile, it wasn’t moved to Wilde Lake until twenty-one years ago. “It was created in 1985, but it wasn’t here at Wilde Lake… ...Where the ARL is, that used to be the Vote Tech Program; it started over there as part of that program,” said Ms. Anderson.

The Vote Tech Program is an alternative option to high school. “They just chose Wilde Lake.”

This program allows the mothers to spend time with their child during first period, Wilde Cat Time, and lunch on Fridays.

Teen mom Makayla Cruz’s favorite part about the program is “Getting to spend time with[her son],” she said.

The daycare providers who take care of the babies during the day absolutely love their jobs. Carolyn Jones, a daycare provider has “been working with kids for 45 years, so it’s nothing new for me. I love

what I do,” she said.

The program isn’t just daycare for the babies. Occasionally, the moms, babies, and daycare providers go on a field trip together. Ms. Jones said they recently went on one of these field trips before Halloween.

Librarians come every Thursday from the Howard County Library and they have a mother/child read along, as well as guest speakers who come every once and awhile to help the mothers learn how to care for their child as best as they can.

According to Cruz, the daycare allows her to be able to save money. “If I couldn’t use the daycare, then I would be poor becuase childcare is so expensive,” she said.

Besides just money, the daycare gives the mothers a chance to go to all their classes and get good grades at the same time. “I really want to get my education; but it would be very difficult if I couldn’t come here.” said Cruz.

Video Conferencing Technology Connects Students and Teachers Across the County

By Sophia Hilger A new program called “Zoom” has been introduced to Howard County AP US History classes, allowing students across the county to connect and learn together.

This is the first year Wilde Lake has adopted zoom, which has a teacher teach from a “home school” using a camera and monitor in the classroom so that students at remote schools can join through video conferencing.

Although the program “Zoom” is new, this year is the third year using video conferences to teach classes.

It was first implemented in a Differential Equations class, then in Ms. Pennington’s AP US History class.

“This new system is better,” said Ms. Pennington. “The first year, everyone got their own iPads, which made it hard to type assignments and students were more interested in the iPads than in the class.”

This technology enables students to have more choices of classes they can take. If a student at a different high school wants to take AP US History, but the course isn’t offered at the school, they can take it with Ms. Pennington. This also allows collaboration among students in schools around the county. “I like that I can connect with students from Reservoir, Glenelg, and Long Reach,” said Hannah Van Osdel, an AP US History student.

If a student is unable to attend school, whether it is because

New program “Zoom” being used to teach AP US History at Wilde Lake

they are part of the Home and Hospital program, or if they are simply sick or travelling for the day, they are still able to attend the class.

Because of Canvas, the online grade management system, schools are increasingly adopting this kind of technology.

According to Ms. Pennington, many colleges are using video conferencing to teach courses.

“A lot of colleges use a system like Canvas,” she said, “Everything in my class is turned in through Canvas.”

Some students enjoy turning assignments in online. “I like that everything is all in one place,” said senior Jane Hilger.

Other students think Canvas is not the best way to turn in assignments.

“I don’t like how everything is online,” said Morgan Kemp, a senior at Glenelg who is in Ms. Pennington’s AP US History class. “I feel like it limits how a student can learn. I learn better by writing everything down, and in this class everything is typed.”

“I think the idea of this kind of class is really great,” said Kemp, “I like that it gives me the chance to take AP US History, even though it’s not offered at my school.”

Even with the benefits of this program, there’s still many things that have the potential to go wrong. “It takes a while to get used to,” said Ms. Pennington.

“Any class, especially an AP class, has a curriculum that must be completed, and learning how to use a new program takes time away from that curriculum.”

There are also some device setup issues, said the Coordinator of Digital Education for Howard County, Robert Cole. Some devices that students provide are not compatible with the new technology, which could cause issues.

“This has the potential to expose people to content and experiences,” said Ms. Pennington.“A lot of hours have gone into creating this class. We are all very excited to share it.”

Opinions What #MeToo Means To Me

By Hope Kahn Ever since multiple women came forward accusing Harvey Weinstein of sexual misconduct in early October, many other women have come forward with their own accusations against men, and even women, creating the movement #MeToo.Women are finally coming forth with their stories of harassment and misconduct. The big question that is being asked is why did these women stay silent?

In today’s society, “the system” is run by men. Many women feel uncomfortable to report an inappropriate behavior or comment due to fear, as well as ridicule.

Women are told to “consider it a compliment,” or that it’s “normal” for harassment or misconduct to occur, and don’t want others to lose respect for them.

Women have now come together to break the silence and report the injust. I believe that the reason for the continuing outburst of allegations in all professions is that women did not feel powerful enough to stand alone to report the abuse, but when coming together as an army they have a voice that will be heard.

The movement #MeToo is not just a movement that affects women being heard today. I know that when I, and the other girls in my generation grow up, we will be heard. We will not be silenced, and we will not be forced to live with the stories that would otherwise go untold.

There’s still work to be done.

Many men still view themselves as superior and that this is a “man’s world.” Women are constantly fighting for the respect and equality they deserve. #MeToo was able to spearhead the confidence for women to confront those who have wronged them, but it also means women are constantly fighting for equality and respect.

There’s an Opioid Crisis, and We Must Do Something About It

By Hannah Van Osdel Did you know that an opioid overdose is the leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States? More than 52,404 people died in 2015 from an opioid overdose, yet addiction is preventable problem. With proper education and awareness, citizens can recognize the warning signs of an opioid addiction.

The opioid crisis was a passion that my late teacher, Laura Wallen, laid the foundation for. She was extremely dedicated to seeing this epidemic tackled head on in the state of Maryland, for many of her family and friends were affected.

In her memory, I am pursuing this issue, as I, too, would like to see this problem obliterated.

In the first half of 2017, there were nearly 800 fentanyl related deaths in the state of Maryland.

By definition, opioids are drugs that are activated in the nervous system to relieve pain. Fentanyl is one of the most common examples, along with oxycodone and codeine. With many of these

overdoses being linked to fentanyl, why is this powerful drug still readily available? And why aren’t we teaching students about the dangers of taking these drugs?

We cannot keep allowing deaths to occur everyday, when we could be taking the correct steps to make the drug harder to access. The deaths occurring at a staggering rate are more than preventable, and we must take action.

One of my biggest pursuits is the power of education. Many people in Maryland as well as the United States are unaware of the dangers that opioids possess. These people may not know what an opioid is until having the resources to be educated. Something that could be extremely beneficial would be making opioid addictions part of health curriculums throughout the state of Maryland. We need to teach our young people the dangers of these lethal drugs, as it is a knowledge that they need to possess, and we need to do it now.

With the power of knowledge comes the power of action.

Together we can fight this issue.

“You should never feel like you’re trapped in a relationship”

By Savannah Jackson It’s the beginning of your relationship. You are learning a lot about each other -- your strengths and weaknesses, your values and your fears. You start to build trust with them and tell him things you wouldn’t tell anyone else. You become close, and enjoy each other’s company.

Then, out of nowhere, he or she starts to become more protective of you.

They don’t like when you go out with friends anymore.

You go out with family, and they get mad. You start to realize that they’re more harsh with their words and that they get mad at the little things you do. It feels like they’re dictating your time, who you hang out with, and where you go.

The name-calling that was once a joke, becomes serious. You feel like you’re walking on eggshells around them. You’re afraid to get them mad over anything you say or do.

You start to wonder where it all went downhill.

You think it’s because of something you did. The most important thing is that you realize that you are in control of your life, your decisions, and your actions.

It’s not too late to make a change.

You should never feel like you’re trapped in a relationship. There are many people available both inside and outside of school that are willing to help you safely get out of the relationship.

If you feel uncomfortable and the situation doesn’t

feel right, know that you can get out of it.

If something they do makes you feel weird or uncomfortable, then know that you can get out of the situation, and that you can leave.

If you’re having to watch what you say and do because the little things upset them, you shouldn’t be with them. You should never feel as if they’re controlling who you hang out with and what you do.

When it all comes down to it, they aren’t your parent.

Women need to realize that they deserve to feel safe and comfortable with their significant other. If your relationship is making you feel horrible about yourself then you need to know that there’s someone that is better and will treat

you how you deserve to be treated.

All women need to know what they deserve… and if your relationship isn’t happy and healthy you need to know there is someone out there that is better…

Do you need help?

Are you in an abusive relationship? Call The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−7233

THE PAW PRINT STAFF 2017-2018 The views expressed in this issue are not necessarily those of the staff, the students, the administration or the school board. Letters to the editors are encouraged. The Paw Print reserves the right to edit any submissions.

Adviser............................................ .......Ben Townsend Print Editor-in-Chief....................................Hope Kahn Web Editor-in-Chief.....................................Rachel Henry News Editor............................................ ..Ihsaan Fanusie Photography Editor......................................Bryan Castillo Writers..................................... ...............Brianna Baker, Savannah Jackson, Stella Johnson, Sophia Hilger, Jane Hilger, Kareem Press, Sarah Rubin, Bryan Shin, Maddie Sommers, Hannah Van Osdel, Aenilah Watkins, Trinity Williams

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