Ever Guzman

tHe new year brings cHanges to campus. speciaLty section reports, s1-s4.









THE

saratogafalcon

Saratoga High School Saratoga, CA Friday September 16, 2011

An Independent School Publication saratogafalcon.org Vol. 52, No. 1







DISTINGUISHED EMPLOYEE







Forever Helpful

Ever Guzman

Head nigHt custodian first from

saratoga to win district award

BY SanjNalwa ient of the award is chosen by the SHS

staff for his or her excellent work and

The bell rings. Students stream out of attitude. Guzman is the first recipient of

their classrooms—off to sports, speech this award.

and debate, band, home. Teachers lock “It was nice,” Guzman said. “There

up. It’s the end of the day. However, for were more deserving people [than I]. But

one Ever Guzman, the day is just begin- I couldn’t say no. It would be impolite.”

ning. Guzman did not, however, adminis-

Guzman, the school’s head night ter a speech when given the award. He

custodian, was awarded “Classified Em-

ployee of the Year” on Aug. 20. The recip- GUZMAN on pg. 7







The Classified Employee Award

AwardRecipients What: A district award

given annually to an em-

‘10-‘11 ‘11-‘12 ployee who “demonstrates

exceptional work ethic and

Ricardo Alas Ever Guzman attitude”

Who: Teachers and staff

Night custodian Ever Guzman cleans Los Gatos Saratoga vote for the recipient

Mrs. Rodriguez’s classroom on Sept. 8.



FALCON // DYLAN JEW







DISTRICT LEADERSHIP POPULATION INCREASE



Matsuoka takes new position Hallways, classes crowded

BY EdwardDong and nine are elementary. MANY STUDENTS EXPERIENCE SCHEDULING WOES

& SanjNalwa “I have never worked in an elemen-

ally solved, Ishikawa had to work out-

BY AllisonChang, AmyJan

tary school setting, and it’s been a

On June 30, while faculty and stu- long time since I’ve worked in middle KellyLiu & AksharaSekar side of the guidance department to find

a way to switch.

dents alike enjoyed the long-awaited schools, so it’s a brand new environ- When March rolled around last year “One of my friends had the same

summer months, a quiet but significant ment,” Matsuoka said. “Now I’m edu- and schedule preferences were made, exact schedule that I wanted and then

change occurred at the district office: cating kids from age three, up to high senior Thomas Ishikawa requested a he wanted the schedule I had so we did

Cary Matsuoka left his post as super- school graduation.” free sixth period because of conflicts was we went in and switched all our

intendent of the Los Gatos-Saratoga Additionally, Matsuoka found him- with baseball. However, upon classes,” Ishikawa said.

Union High School District after nearly self attracted to the ethnic diversity of receiving his schedule this year, Personally searching for other

five years. Milpitas schools. The high index of the school said that he had to students who would swap class-

At a board of trustees meeting earlier immigrant families offers a rewarding take seven classes during his fi- es with him was the only way he

that month, Matsuoka gave his resig- challenge. nal year in high school. could adapt his schedule for his

nation. He had accepted an offer from “I’ve also been learning about liter- “I took government over the extracurricular activities.

the Milpitas Union School District and acy. Say your parents tell you that you summer so that I could have an These scheduling conflicts

started his job as superintendent there need to move to Spain, and then all of open sixth just second semester, stem from recent budget cuts and

on July 1. a sudden all the instruction is in Span- since that’s when baseball is,” an increase in the overall student

“I wanted to try a larger challenge ish,” he said. “ Imagine learning AP Bi- Ishikawa said. Ishikawa population. This has caused the

and a larger district,” Matsuoka said. ology in Spanish.” When Ishikawa received his class sizes to increase.

His new position also offers him a high- Matsuoka first began to work for the schedule, he discovered that he had a Over the past seven years, class sizes

er salary. district in 1984 at Saratoga High School, free first period second semester rather have oscillated to about 330 students on

Unlike the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union where he taught science until 1997, than the sixth period. average—the current freshman class of

High School District, which is com- when he became the assistant principal Similarly, many students started off 371 far exceeds this number.

posed of two high schools, the Milpitas for Lynbrook High School. In 2006, he the year plagued by numerous sched- According to guidance counselor Ei-

Union School District holds 13 schools returned to the district as superinten- uling conflicts and endless amounts of leen Allen, the school bore an influx of

and serves roughly 10,000 students. Of frustration.

those 13 schools, two are middle schools MATSUOKA on pg. 7 Although his situation was eventu- POPULATION on pg. 6



News 1-7 Opinion 8-10 Lifestyles 11-13 Entertainment 14-15 School Scope 16-17 In-Depth 18-19 Sports 20-23 Backpage 24

Non-Profit

Organization

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PAID

Saratoga, CA

Permit No. 41

2 NEWS September 16, 2011

THE

saratoga falcon

THE

saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 NEWS 3

picturethis FalCON FOCus: lEaH aGuayO

news

briefs Spicin’ it up with Mrs. A’s Famous Salsa Buena

CeramiCS teaCher’S SalSa buSineSS thriveS in more than 100 StoreS

Activities Office to implement credit card

system BY SanjNalwa something from her kitchen to the mar-

ketplace.

The Activities Office experienced some major changes Ceramics teacher Leah Aguayo has so To start her business, she had to learn

this summer, with the introduction of a new credit card many bags of tortilla chips stacked up about bar codes, trademarks and the nu-

payment system and the temporary leave of usual secre- against her desk in her office, adjacent to trition of her product. Not only that, she

tary June Lamm. the ceramics room, that one might think had to produce the salsa in a commercial

The administration has decided to implement a system she owns a salsa company. In reality, she kitchen, not in her home.

in which students and parents will be able to use their does. Aguayo began going to various stores

debit or credit cards to pay for items such as dance bids Aguayo, who has worked as a ceram- and asking them to buy her salsa. She

and sports fees. ics teacher at Saratoga High for the past fondly recounted her dialogue with the

“The credit card system will make it easier for students 29 years, also leads a double life as the first vendor whom she visited.

to pay for their many activities” Activities Office secretary head of Mrs. A’s Famous Salsa Buena, a “I had a container of salsa, and a

Anne Ybarra said. “It will give students more options on company she founded seven years ago bag of chips, and I went into my local

how they would like to pay.” at the urging of her students. market. I can remember the two owners

The implementation of a credit card option also im- For years, she has rewarded her stu- just standing down an aisle. They were

FALCON // DYLAN JEW

proves the efficiency of the Activities Office, which is fre- dents by bringing in food, including her smiling at me. I was a customer, I spent

quently inundated with droves of students purchasing Parent volunteers serve burgers to a line of students at the annual Back to School barbecue. Held on Au- salsa. Students apparently were so en- money in their store,” Aguayo said. “I

bids for school dances. gust 26, the barbeque was an hour-long closed-campus lunch that served the entire staff and students. amored of the salsa that they convinced said, ‘Can I have you taste something?

“I’m glad the [Activities] Office is creating the option Aguayo to start producing it commer- I’m thinking about marketing this.’”

for people to pay with their credit cards,” senior Shayda falconfigures cially. After sampling her salsa, the manag-



Student High Student Population

Saratogapopulation over the years (1990-2010)

Khorasani said. “It makes the transaction a lot faster and “The class told me, ‘You have to mar- ers immediately said that they would be

much easier for us students.” ket this. We can’t wait for you [to bring her first store.

The exact date when this system will be implemented it in]. We want to be able to buy it,’” Since that initial exchange, more than

remains to be determined. However, the administration Aguayo said. 100 stores, including Whole Foods, have

FALCON // DYLAN JEW



aims to have it running in time for Homecoming. 1350 Aguayo thought about the idea for sold or now sell her salsa. Ceramics teacher Leah Aguayo has been making her homemade salsa for seven years.

number of Students









weeks. Then, Daniel Yang (class of ‘02) “It took me three years to get into

—Aanchal Mohan

Numberof students









1250 approached her. He wanted to design Whole Foods,” Aguayo said. “And only Agauyo said she has been cooking making salsa for her high school ceram-

her label. Yang advised Aguayo to buy in Northern California, because [each since she was 8. She learned to make ics classes. She holds high hopes for the

samples of all her competitors’ salsas, chain] has regions.” salsa from a family friend about 20 years future of Mrs. A’s.

1150 and then used those as inspiration to de- Aguayo said she hopes that Mrs. A’s ago. “The creation of Mrs. A’s Salsa Buena

signing her own. will be picked up by a couple of major “I can’t stand to go shopping,” and its success has been a group effort—

National merit: an honor for Saratoga “We had a class discussion about the chains. Aguayo said. “But I can spend hours in from my students, who sparked the

students 1050 —Arnav Dugar name,” Aguayo said. “[We liked] Fa- “I’m still chasing Safeway,” Aguayo a grocery store, just going down the isles entrepreneur in me to my family and

38 students were notified by the National Merit Schol- Data courtesy of School mous Amos and Mrs. Field’s. OK, it’s said. “I’ve been in Safeway’s corporate looking for food.” friends who have supported this ad-

arship Corporation (NMSC) on Sept. 2 that they were 950 Registrar Jeanne Jamieson got to be Mrs. A’s Famous Salsa Buena. offices several times. I’ve been close Recently, Aguayo recruited Yang, venture,” Aguayo wrote on her website,

among the top 1 percent of all scorers on the PSAT, the Within three months we were ready to several times, waiting for the call that now a designer in Los Angeles, to rede- www.mrsafamous.com. “I would like to

guidance department said. go.” doesn’t happen. Trader Joe’s is another sign the brand’s label. thank everyone for their smiles and sup-

To qualify for national merit, students must take the

850 Aguayo said she first had to take one I’ve called.” Aguayo has come a long way from port.” u

PSAT in their junior year. Of the 1.5 million students who

take the test, approximately 50,000 high scorers qualify

for program recognition. Those students are then either Year year HOMECOMING

recognized as commended students or national semifinal-

quoteoftheissue

Children’s books revisited in this year’s themes

ists.

Of these commended students, roughly 16,000 receive

the honor of being semifinalists. In February, the top 15,000 Having a DJ who’s our age was pretty cool. He was great and

semifinalists are recognized as finalists, to whom scholar-

ships are awarded based on letters of recommendation, the dance was really boppin’. BY AllisonToh who participate by spreading the word

extra-curricular activities and a final essay. Senior Eric Wang, referring to the Kickoff Dance held on Aug. 26 & RohanRajeev and encouragement to help out, it will

Of all the finalists, 8,300 students receive one of three compensate for the homework and tests

types of scholarships: the National Merit $2,500 Schol- “Alice in Wonderland” by Lewis Car- that might prevent someone from mak-

arships, corporate-sponsored scholarships and college roll tells of a girl named Alice who falls ing a practice or a meeting,” junior class



Saturday school gets serious

sponsored scholarships. down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a president Benedict Chiu said.

strange world where everything is com- Even with the added extracurricu-

—Derek Sun and Jonathan Young plete nonsense. On Sept. 30, a variation lar work, Chiu is confident and excited

of this narrative will be performed by about his class’s upcoming performance,

lack of respect of rules in some “We can be kind,” said the school’s seniors, who selected Car- scheduled for Sept. 29.

BY CristinaCurcelli

cases have led to this change. Mount. “But we don’t want it roll’s work from among four novels fit- “We look forward mostly to the end FALCON // DYLAN JEW TALISMAN // SALMAAN JAVED



School gains 2 points in API average Thinking about texting your Mount said that this year’s to be a reward. That doesn’t ting this year’s Homecoming theme of result,” he said. “We [also] really like

friend during a history lecture students will be expected to sound right, does it?” “Children’s Storybooks.” the theme. The Wizard of Oz is a classic

The district’s updated Academic Performance Index or cutting math to avoid a test? come to Saturday school pre- It is also essential that stu- Nicole Shadman, the senior class story that has many elements in which

(API) score released on Aug. 31 revealed that Saratoga was Give it a second thought. pared to work. Electronics of dents come ready with home- president, knows that her class must we can incorporate into our decorations

awarded a total of 933 points and Los Gatos 883, marking Saturday school is going to any kind and talking are not al- work to complete during the step up and perform better than it has and our quad dance.”

a two- and 10-point improvement to each school’s score in become stricter this year, ac- lowed, and poor behavior will session. for the past three years. Additionally, Chiu agrees with the

the previous year. cording to assistant principal not be accepted. Students must “Kids need to understand “During my freshman year, the se- Homecoming commission’s recently

Overall, the district’s score was 904 points, 191 points Kevin Mount. that they do need to come with niors put on such an amazing Quad Day introduced restriction on parental assis-

above the average score of 742 of all other California high

bigidea

THE









The Saturday school sys- work, prepared to work for the and I have yet to see a per- tance.

schools and a six-point increase from last year’s score. La- tem is used as a consequence full time,” Mount explained. formance as good as that,”

bigidea “These rules were









THE

tino students in the district boosted their score by 53 points for students who break the Failure to follow these rules Shadman said. violated by parents

to 848 points as did students with disabilities, who raised Saturday School

school’s code of conduct. The will result in being sent home This year’s senior class of last year’s fresh-

their score by 19 points from 658 points to 677 points. most common offenses that What

from Saturday school for the has consistently struggled Homecoming Quad Day men, but it’s good that

“Our special education group was particularly impres- merit a Saturday school are cell Saturday school is going to

day, and the student will meet in the school’s past three Dates and Themes something was learned

sive,” assistant principal Kevin Mount said. “Typically the phone usage in class and atten- be stricter this year

with Mount to discuss the situ- Homecoming festivities. from that,” Chiu said,

state target is around 5 points per year, so for our special dance issues. Why ation. Now in their final high Freshmen (Sept. 27)

referring to the contro-

education group to go up 19 points is really excellent.” Six tardies equals one Satur- “It just makes sense,” Mount school year, the class hopes “Rumpelstiltskin”

To make students take versy surrounding the

Ever since the Public Schools Accountability Act began day school, as does any three school rules more seriously said, “that if you are going to to ameliorate past quad Sophomores (Sept. 28) role played by parents

being enforced in 1999, California has been using the API in cuts in any one class. Less and deter repeat offenders be there, use the time wisely day disasters, according to “Where the Wild Things in Homecoming deco- FALCON // DYLAN JEW

order to track the academic progress of schools within the common offenses that lead to and do your school work and

How Shadman. Are” rations. Top-left: Juniors Rohan Cotah, Moriah Chermak and Sasan Saadat work on their script

state. Each score is calculated by comparing a student’s aca- Saturday schools are lower make it work for you.”

Students will be required to “Our year is very aca- The Homecoming for their “Wizard of Oz”-themed Quad Day. Top-right: Senior class president Nicole Shad-

demic achievements in various subjects to the API scale. classmen leaving campus at Mount says numbers of at-

Juniors (Sept. 29)

In addition to scoring the API of all students in each bring work of some kind demic, so our Homecom- “The Wizard of Oz” commission has also man discusses various plans for Homecoming at the class meeting on Sept. 1. Bottom:

lunch, defiance or disruption tendees tend to increase as the ing performances haven’t revised and edited Some juniors rehearse their Quad day dance on Sept. 11 at junior Heather Sabel’s house.

school, the system also calculates API scores for different and cheating of any form. year goes on because of the de-

subgroups such as ethnicity, students with disabilities, been as good as they could Seniors (Sept. 30) other rules to make

The sessions are held at cline of attendance records. By have been in the past,” “Alice in Wonderland” the judging guidelines other dance. guidelines intended to reduce bias in the

English Learner Status students and the socioeconomically school about 12 times per se- comply with their supervisor; the semester’s end, Saturday

disadvantaged. Shadman said. “[But this clearer. Because of these tighter rules, Chu class point system. For example, seniors

mester. Teachers who sign up otherwise, further punishment schools are usually full. year] we’re getting many “Unlike past years, expects Homecoming to have more and juniors now share an equal chance

“We benefit from a number of factors here at Saratoga to supervise Saturday school will follow. Ultimately, the school hopes

High,” assistant principal Brian Safine said. “If you add in more participants in the performance, we made sure that all students and par- positive spirit and less miscommuni- of placing first.

sessions in their classrooms are “You’re going to do work that the number of Saturday since it’s our senior year.” ents knew the exact rules so there would cation. Also, for the first time in four Freshmen will perform “Rumpel-

all the parental expectation, student drive and dedicated paid to do so. for four hours,” Mount said. school attendees will decline.

staff, it’s no surprise that we continue to do real well. It’s Meanwhile, the junior class, which be no discrepancies,” junior head Home- years, the teachers will participate in a stiltskin” on Sept. 27. Sophomores will

The administration feels “It is not a party.” “Our goal is not to have decided on the L. Frank Baum’s “The coming commissioner Priscilla Chu said. teacher dance, which takes place on the perform “Where the Wild Things Are,”

gratifying to know that the students in the classroom take that too many students have Although it is acceptable to a bunch of kids in Saturday

tests seriously.” Wizard of Oz,” attempts to balance the One of the commission’s new regula- Monday of Homecoming week during written by Maurice Sendak, on Sept. 28.

been coming to Saturday relax and there is no intention school every Saturday,” said

—Brandon Judoprasetijo notoriously hectic junior year academ- tions clarifies that the presence of any lunch. Homecoming week takes place Sept.

school unprepared and not of creating a prison-like atmo- Mount. “I’d love it if it was ic burden with the time invested into person under the influence of alcohol The commission has made many 26 to Oct. 1. The Homecoming game on

ready to work. The disregard sphere, students are there for a empty every Saturday. It’d be Homecoming. at the Homecoming dance will result in additions to this year’s Homecoming Sept. 30 will pit the Falcons against the

for cell phone regulations and reason. great.” u “If we widen the number of people a cancellation of Sadie Hawkins or an- festivities as well, composing written Los Altos Eagles. u

4 NEWS September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

THE

saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 NEWS 5

Warm welcome extends beyond BBQ drama







new buddy SyStem aimS to help new StudentS acclimate all year

Little Theater renamed to honor supporter

BY MichaelLee senior Nicole Shadman, who making each other feel wel- missioner, a member of ASB or us,” Shadman said. “[We’re] al- Students, parents honor Cathie Thermond; theater department welcomes new drama teacher Karin Babbit

co-heads the new student com- come.” someone who was new to the ways looking to make everyone

In their first few weeks of mission. “We have them play This year, Shadman and district in previous years. This feel at home here.” BY LillianChen keep the program going. The first drama pro-

school, many incoming fresh- bonding games and meet the Bhardwaj developed a “buddy buddy will occasionally eat lunch Assistant principal Karen “She produces and makes duction of the year,

men find themselves lost in a administrators. Then we take system” to supplement the bar- with the student, check up on him Hyde, who works closely with Amidst hype for the first costumes for most show and “The 25th Annual

vast, foreign campus. With their them on a tour of becue and help even more or her and generally help him or the new student commission, drama production of the year has a huge part in making every Putnam County Spell-

middle school acquaintances, the school with their students feel welcome. her acclimate to the school. recognizes the additional chal- and a competitive audition for show happen,” Burgess said. ing Bee,” showed the

however, they do not have to schedules.” “Last year, I can say “We’re thinking it could go lenges new students face and the fall play, the drama club has The official naming ceremo- weekend of Sept. 9.

face high school alone. Shadman and co- that I saw a couple of the the entire year, just have events hopes the buddy system will set aside time to honor one of its ny was followed by student Burgess, who directed

Without the assurances of head commissioner new students who didn’t for all the new students—even ease their transitions. most committed supporters. performances and a reception the play, said the musi-

friendship and familiarity, stu- senior Ruchie Bhard- know each other before just like having lunch a couple “I think one of the hardest On Sept. 13, the Little Theater with food. cal is about “six young

dents new to the district argu- waj said the barbecue the barbecue hanging of times throughout the year,” things to do would be to come was dedicated to producer and In addition to the renaming of people in the throes of

ably have a tougher time ad- is a nice first step into out throughout the year,” Bhardwaj said. “Just to make to a [new] school—leaving a costume designer Cathie Ther- the Little Theater, the drama de- puberty, overseen by

justing to life at Saratoga High. Saratoga High. Shadman said. “This year, sure that their first year goes community that you’re familiar mond for the incredible amount partment also welcomes a new grown-ups who barely

To help welcome about 60 stu- “At the start, every- Shadman I wanted to increase that. I smoothly.” with, friends that you had estab- of work and time she invests teacher. Although her teaching managed to escape

dents, the new student commis- one was a bit nervous, wanted to see them hang- Shadman encourages people lished and a home that you have into the drama department. The philosophies are markedly dif- childhood themselves,

sion held its annual “New Stu- but towards the end there were ing out with more people ver- to welcome their new peers as known—and have to navigate theater was named the Cathie ferent from her predecessors, who learn that win-

dent Barbecue” on Aug. 19. lots of conversation,” Bhardwaj sus just by themselves, walking they adjust to high school life. that place on your own,” Hyde Thermond Drama Center. new drama teacher Karin Bab- ning isn’t everything

“It’s pretty much like Link’s said. “It was just nice to see all through the halls, which I saw a “If anybody wants to help or said. “This is a tough place to Thermond’s role in the dra- bit has been well received by and that losing doesn’t

[freshman orientation] except the new students we had and lot last year.” is interested in helping out the be, and this is just one way that ma department began around students. Previously, the drama necessarily make you a

it’s more selective because it’s some of the old students we This system will match each new student commission, then we’re hoping we can make [the five years ago when both her department was more student- loser.”

just the new students,” said invited just meshing together, student with a new student com- they should definitely contact switch] a little softer.” u son and daughter attended the run between all members. The production fea-

school and also participated in “She has a very different style turedfreshman Nata-

the drama department. Ther- than we’re used to,” Burgess lie Miller and Matt

mond began as a volunteer who said. “Ms. Babbit has put a lot Nobles, juniors Gabby





Join our club!

helped out with costumes and of work into changing the dra- Crolla, Mia Hammond FALCON // LILLIAN CHEN

now plays a major role in the ma department, both the class and Laura Hannibal

BY DylanJew drama department, producing and the shows, into a more pro- and seniors Josh Har- Freshman Madison Sloan practices acting exercises by performing a mono-

shows and working on many fessional environment. A lot of ris, Mitchell McGuire, logue in her Drama 1 class, led by new drama teacher Karin Babbit, on Sept. 8.

Left: Junior boys aspects of the department. Even the ways she deals with things Marshall Westall and

pump up the crowd; after her children graduated reflects real-world industry be- Jimmy Zheng and is week of Aug. 29 and it will be “We’ll be rehearsing for it for

their spirit and from Saratoga High, Thermond havior.” rated PG-13 for some mature performed on Oct. 20, 22 and 24. about two months.”

enthusiasm entices continued to volunteer and aid Babbit will be directing both content. “Tartuffe” is a French play that Last year was very success-

students to join their the department. the spring and fall plays. De- “I’m so incredibly excited for was originally written in 1664 ful and the drama club hopes

exciting club. Design “Without her, shows would spite this change, Burgess be- Spelling Bee because I’ve want- about a man named Tartuffe this year will be even better.

Club utilizes graphic not happen,” drama club presi- lieves that the club’s dynamic ed to do it since my sophomore who is a beggar whom people “The department is truly

design programs to dent senior Penny Burgess said. has actually gotten better. year,” Burgess said. believe is a con artist. my family, and I want nothing

produce items and Each time there has been a new “We’re a lot closer as a de- Auditions for the fall play “I assume it will be com- but the best for them,” Burgess

commodities such as teacher, Thermond has helped partment this year,” she said. called “Tartuffe” were held the ing along well,” Burgess said. said. u

flyers, T-shirts and

Homecoming bids.

From left to right: Rep-

resentatives Shreyas maTH club

Doshi, Rohan Rajeev, 2011-2012

Eric Tang, Brandon

Judoprasetijo, Parth

Shah.

Subtracting 3 stars adds up to a challenging year Falcon

BYJackieGu problem to be an ordeal in itself. Now, ma- school program had started about two issues*

& BrandonJudoprasetijo terial will be provided for students accord- years ago — when Gu, Zeng, and Aggarw-

ing to their level. al stepped up as leaders of the club — and SEPT. 16

It was a sad day for the math club last “I think the way we approach it has to be dramatically changed many aspects of Red-

Right: Junior June when its three leading seniors, often a little different. We didn’t challenge every- wood’s math club, including its class size,

SEPT. 30

Joyce Wang called the “Three Musketeers,” graduated body appropriately,” Yim said. “The idea teaching methods, and lecture format. OCT. 21

provides view- together in one swoop. Besides just helping of math club is so that the members can be So far, the middle school program seems NOV. 4

ers with details the club to improve mathematically, alumni self-reliant.” to have proven successful in developing in-

regarding Anime Above: S.P.A.R club president junior Sasan Saadat Albert Gu, David Zeng and Amol Aggarwal By turning the club sessions into a format terest in math. Not only are the high school DEC. 2

club and its goals. and junior vice president Shireen Kaul beckon for added irreplaceable character to the group more easily accessible to new members, the DEC. 16

students willing to dedicate themselves to

Anime Club meets prospective members to come sign up for their club.

with their one-of-a-kind camaraderie. club hopes to draw more interest in math teaching the budding mathletes, but the JAN. 27

and creates an- “This is our first year without the Three from the school. middle schoolers themselves are motivat-

ime style artwork. Left: Senior Shaun Chung advertises California Schol- FEB. 17

arship Federation, a community service club that Musketeers, and now that they aren’t here, “We’re aware that math can be very ed.

awards scholarships to high school students. CSF is it’s almost too quiet,” club adviser PJ Yim discouraging,” Yim said. “The nature of “I feel like there are three parts of suc- MAR. 16

always a hot club to sign up for due to the benefits it said. “The noise level has gone down from the topic is so esoteric that it’s a mystery cess at Redwood: the high school mentors,

rock concert to mon- to most people, and the willing students, and the parents,” Yim

APRIL 6

provides for its members.

astery. Before, it had I think that’s part of said. “It’s as they say, you can take a horse MAY 31

kind of a loud energy, This is our first year with- the reason that math to water, but you can’t make it drink.” (with senior magazine)

but now it’s more out the Three Musketeers, club has always been Yim has such hopes for the potential of



Link Crew helps 390 freshmen adjust to high school

meditative.” small.” growth in the middle-school program that

The new leaders and now that they’re not With this strategy, he thinks perhaps, the math club could even

of the club, however, here, it’s almost too quiet. Yim hopes that re- begin helping at the elementary schools

seniors Brian Wai and Club adviser P.J. Yim sults will prove to be within the Saratoga district.

Alissa Zhang, have on par with all of last “We can’t talk about the high school math

BY DeborahSoung not go perfectly, so Ms. Kellert and I have lert, orientation ran smoothly. lost without orientation.”

filled the shoes of last year’s success. Sara- club without talking about [Redwood Mid-

& SierraSmith to be ready for anything. The commis- “I have worked with Link Crew clubs Link Crew will continue to aid and year’s legends to an impressive degree. toga ranked first in California compared to dle School],” Yim said. “Maybe if we have

sioners are a huge help to us with plan- at other schools and must say I am thor- support their freshmen throughout the They hope to shape this year’s practices other public high schools in the state for the people who are brave enough, in a few years, *subject to change

Excited and eager for high school, 390 ning. We couldn’t have done it without oughly impressed with the Link Crew school year, starting with “Freshmen into a format more welcoming for newcom- prestigious American Math Competition. we could find people who are willing to

freshmen started the school year a little them,” Allen said. program here at Saratoga,” Kellert said. Focus” groups during the second and ers unfamiliar with competitive math. This result is especially impressive given help out

early on Aug. 19 at freshmen orientation. Commissioners spent several hours “SHS kids are so reliable, committed third Monday tutorials of the school “We’re trying to make the club more ac- how “scary good” neighboring schools such at the el-

One hundred fifteen maroon-clad Link per day with the counselors dur- and responsible, going above year. cessible to people and let members tackle as Lynbrook, Mission San Jose and Gunn ementa-

Crew leaders led their respective groups ing the week leading up to orien- and beyond to not just com- “Basically the tutorials are just for problems at their own level,” Zhang said. consistently perform, according to Yim. ry level.

of freshmen through the school’s hall- tation. The six seniors helped be- plete the task at hand, but to do answering more of the students’ ques- “There’s a stigma that if you join math club, Yim hopes this talent will carry onto the If we can

ways to familiarize the freshmen with hind the scenes with organizing it well and with panache.” tions, to make them feel a little more you have to be really good at math, but you next generation of “mathletes,” as there are start do-

the school. the details of orientation. Despite having to wake up welcome and to let them know that might be better than you think.” currently several middle-school students ing that,

“I felt that Link Crew went very well “Prior to Link orientation, we early on a summer morning, we’re still checking up on them,” In the past, all members were given the who show serious potential. Their dedica- maybe

this year,” counselor Eileen Allen said had to set up all of the freshman both Link Crew members and Kothari said. same problem sets regardless of their skill. tion to math, Yim thinks, is caused in part we can

of orientation. “The students seemed groups and then pair them up freshmen seemed to enjoy ori- The Link Crew will maintain con- While some members were able to simply by the high school students who go to Red- truly see

like they were having a good time, and I with all of the Link leaders,” Link entation. nections with their freshman groups glance at the problems and figure out the wood every Tuesday to teach them. a dynas-

was very impressed with the leaders this Crew commissioner Ali Kothari

Allen “I really liked my Link kids,” throughout the year through events solutions, others found getting past the first High school involvement in the middle ty.” u

year. They were very mature, and they said. “It was just a huge task, be- Kothari said. “It was really nice such as a movie night and the “Coffee

had a very positive and enthusiastic at- cause we basically just had a huge list of because all of my kids already knew each and Cram” group study time before first

titude.”

Allen, new counselor Lisa Kellert, the

freshmen and we had a bunch of leaders, other, so they were all really comfort-

so we had to pair them all up and group able and there was no awkwardness. We

semester finals.

“We are trying to make sure the fresh-

falconfigures

Link Crew and a team of six Link Crew them.” played [games] pretty much the whole





408

men understand how important it is to





2 25

commissioners organized both the Link Commissioners and leaders had to time, and we just hung out.” Saratoga High students to be kind and re- Saratoga High’s Saratoga High’s Number of

Crew training and the freshman orienta- cooperate closely with the counselors in Most freshmen, including Rebecca spectful of one another,” Allen said. “You composite score placement in questions on an

tion this year. order for the Link Crew to accomplish Lee, found orientation to be helpful and can be a great student, but it is important in the AMC test California AMC test

“There are inevitably things that do its goals. Fortunately, according to Kel- fun. Lee said she “would probably be to be a great person too.” u

6 NEWS September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

THE

saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 NEWS 7

SHS undergoes increase in enrollment continued from pg. 1 all things,” Siriprapu said. “He cared

about what I had to say, about what stu-

ing task of selecting a new superinten-

dent. The district hired Leadership As- falconfigures

OrcheStra cOntinueS tO grOw increaSing flOw Of freShmen dent. dents had to say in general.” sociates, a search firm specializing in







2

Tom Woodruff, the associate superin- Matsuoka’s efforts culminated last the selection of executive leaders in aca-

tendent of the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union year with the passing of the district’s demia as well as industry. Number of schools

AmyJan to Allen. High School District, said that Matsuo- first parcel tax, which has addressed the “The board is committed to finding in LGSUHSD

falconfigures

BY CeciliaHollenhorst BY

& VivienLu Many factors could explain the large ka, in addition to being a close colleague, “need for funding under local control,” and hiring the best possible leader for

The music department never seems freshman population. For one, the eco- was a caring personal friend. according to the Jane Marashian, who our district,” Marashian said. “To that







13

to stop growing. This year, roughly 450 Freshman Nikhil Chakravarthy ex- nomic downturn may make public “I’ll miss not seeing him every day,” worked as administrative assistant. end, a professional search firm provides

Number of schools



89

students will be participating in one or Number of students pected to encounter a new set of rules schools seem more financially attrac- Woodruff said. “My father died a week However, Matsuoka believes that his us with the expertise to coordinate the

enrolled in orchestra before I started working [in the school greatest contribution lies in the adminis- complex process of advertising, recruit- in the Milpitas

more of the musical groups on campus. and an expanded workload in high tive than their private school counter- Union School

Just three years ago, there were two three years ago school. He did not, however, foresee parts. district. Matsuoka] completely support- tration team that he left behind. ing, collecting community input, and

ed me.” “I think the biggest thing was kind of interviewing.” District

orchestra classes totaling 89 students the packed classes and cramped halls. However, according to Allen, the

Senior Anshu Siripurapu, the board the behind the scenes,” Matsuoka said. Marashian expects the board to an-





13

“One time I was walking to class, population boom may be short-lived,



138

enrolled. This year, there are 138 orches-

Number of students and it was like Disneyland on Christ- as Saratoga’s elementary school enroll- representative for Saratoga High last “We have 13 administrators in the dis- nounce the final decision soon after the Number of

tra members and three classes, leading enrolled in orchestra

music department chair Michael Boitz mas Day,” he said. ment rates continue to plummet. year, also appreciated Matsuoka’s ap- trict, and I left a top-notch administra- Sept. 17 finalist interview date. The new administrators in the

this year proachable personality. tion team.” superintendent will most likely begin to Saratoga district

to consider about increasing to four or- As the school year starts to un- According to registrar Jeanne Ja-

chestras in the future. fold, returning students are noticing mieson, one more freshman English “I think he was a good listener above Matsuoka also left behind the daunt- work in October. u

In addition to accommodating large ger. For that reason, he is excited to see that hallways are more crowded and courses was added in accordance to the

class sizes, the music department must the record number of orchestra mem- lunch lines are much longer. Indeed, new student population.







To perform, to inform

worry about all of the added responsi- bers this year. He attributes the fresh- the school popu- “The only dif-

bilities that come with having more stu- man class’s enthusiasm for music to the lation has in- ficult thing I have

dents. creased. Over the I didn’t really seen in terms of

BY DavidEng

positive influence of Redwood Middle

“We love to see so much participation School’s band and orchestra staff. past seven years, notice how many scheduling is that

in our programs,” Boitz said, “but it does “Many students are drawn to the class sizes have freshmen there some classes are

get very complicated logistically.” music community in middle school and averaged about were until I was super popular, es-

Senior Vivian Tsai, who has observed

the group’s growth first-hand as a mem-

find an activity that they love,” Boitz

said. “Continuing music in high school

330 students; the

current fresh-

crowded in the

hallways by them.”

pecially electives

like Journalism 1 the marching band exhibitS the PrOgreSS they made Over the One-WeeK

ber of the orchestra, also admits that the is the natural next step.”

man class of 371

far exceeds this

or Ceramics 1,”

senior Sarah Lum Allen said. “Man- band camP and teacheS family and friendS marching baSicS On aUg. 20.

changes create both advantages and dis- While orchestra enrollment continues

advantages. number. aging with getting

to increase, those of the marching band Left: Pit percussionist

“It’s great that our program has Before school even began, Link Crew students the classes they want has been freshman Jordan Gre-

and Color Guard has remained in the experienced the impact of the increase tough because it’s hard to explain to

grown, but I miss being able to play with range of 210 to 220 students for the past nier tells his father to

in students. new students that we can only accom- watch the drum major

everybody,” Tsai said. “It’s definitely four years. The most significant change “I definitely felt it with Link,” guid- modate to a certain extent.” to know when to start

harder to manage the orchestra.” has been in Color Guard participation, ance counselor and Link Crew co-di- It is not only classes sizes that are playing. Right: Color guard captain junior Mck-

Having space to store instruments, which has increased from 32 students

organizing registration forms and keep-

rector Eileen Allen said. “We had so feeling the effects of the increased stu- enna Galvin strikes the ending pose of

last year to a record 40 this season. many people that wanted to be Link dent population, but also throughout the first movement. “I think we’re at

ing track of each student continue to Not only is the freshman class repre- Crew leaders, so it worked out as there the other students, who are noticing a much better place as far as progress

increase in complexity with each new sented in high numbers throughout the were enough leaders to have a decent the difference. goes than last year. It was fun being

member, but all areas of the music de- music department, but Boitz predicts amount of freshmen in their groups.” “The only difference is that there able to show family and friends what we

partment continue to welcome newcom- that the class will flourish. In addition to the large graduating were more students around me, espe- accomplished in such a short time.”

ers of any skill level. “The new students are awesome,” class from Redwood Middle School, cially really small ones,” senior Sarah

Boitz believes that growth in number Boitz said. “They’re really fun and will- which the administration had an- Lum said. “I didn’t really notice how Bottom: Junior Doug Jones instructs his

of students participating in the music ing to try new things so far, I can’t wait ticipated, the school bore an influx of many freshmen there were until I was mother on how to hold the trumpet and

program only makes the program stron- to see how the year progresses.” u freshmen new to the district, according crowded in the hallways by them.” u march to her next drill set or “dot.”









Above: Saxophones and clarinets break off from a large section









SUPERSIZE SHS

and merge into a block for the first movement.



Right: Drum major senior Isabel McPherson teaches her dad

how to conduct. “Teaching my dad was interesting ... Turns out

I have a better ‘man voice’ than him ... It made me realize that

there are a lot of things we take for granted or think are easy in

band, but to outsiders they’re entirely foreign and confusing.”









continued from pg. 1 minutes per room.” position] in the paper,” Guzman said.

big idea









THE

Guzman said that one of the toughest “They picked me from a lot of appli-

received it at the annual gathering of areas to clean are the locker rooms. cants. I was very lucky.” Night Custodian

district employees before school started. “When we have football games,” Guzman does not start work until

“I chickened out,” Guzman joked. “I Guzman said, “when either [team] los- 2:30 p.m., and therefore he has a lot of Recognition: Ever Guzman, the head

couldn’t do any speech. I was telling my es, they trash the time to himself in night custodian, was awarded “SHS

boss, I should take Mr. Rector’s class on Employee of the Year” on Aug. 20. He

place. But we un- the morning and

has been an employee for the school for

speech and debate.” derstand,” Guzman early afternoon.

Guzman did not expect for a moment said with a smile. We have to check all the “I like to watch

20 years.



he would win the award. “It’s frustrating for doors, make sure every- soccer,” Guzman His job: Works 2:30 to 11:30 p.m. five

days a week, leads the “Night Crew” to

“I got a little plaque,” Guzman said. the kids, because thing is secure ... the said. “When I was

tidy bathrooms, trash cans, locker rooms

“Very simple. Simple, yet beautiful.” they want to win, alarms are working ... a kid I used to play and classrooms.

Guzman works from 2:30 p.m. to 11 you know. But you a lot. I never miss

p.m. five days per week. have to learn to nothing’s going wrong. So a game with Man-

Quick facts: Enjoys soccer and fishing,

continued from pg. 1 a similar problem, as these right classes. ting students requirement for the past few bikes frequently, grew up in El Salvador

classes are completely filled to “Folks have the classes they weeks without success. She “Every bathroom, every day,” Guz- how to lose too.” it’s not only cleaning. chester United or

new-to-district students in ad- the brink. Students must swap been able to have want has been has been unable to enter the man said. “Every trash can, every day. Guzman, 57, Barcelona.”

dition to the expected large with each other specifically in classes they want,” tough because class because it was already We have to check all the doors, make sure grew up in El Sal- Head night custodian Guzman also for you guys, because without the stu-

graduating class from Red- order to transfer. assistant principal it’s hard to ex- completely full, with a waiting everything is secure, make sure all the vador, but the civil Ever Guzman enjoys fishing. dents, none of us would have a job. You

wood Middle School. However, despite all the dif- Brian Safine said. plain to new list of more than 50 students. alarms are working, make sure nothing’s war there forced “I go fishing in guys make us work, and we’re thankful.

Due to this increase, many ficulties faced, most students “Some students students that Although Verma’s schedule going wrong. So it’s not only cleaning.” Guzman and his family to flee to the Santa Cruz,” Guzman said. “I’m not That’s the way I think about it.”

underclassmen have had dif- are willing to find solutions want not only RefeR To we can only ac- did not accommodate her in- There are five members of the evening U.S. Guzman, then 24, caught a plane good, but I love it.” Principal Jeff Anderson said Guzman

ficulty switching between sci- themselves, such as Ishikawa, the classes they commodate to terest in ceramics, she worked custodial staff, which Guzman affection- that took him to the U.S. Guzman said that he always looks was the obvious choice for the award.

ence and math honors classes or make compromises in order need to graduate, for an opinion on this issue, an extent.” with guidance to switch into ately labels the “Night Crew.” He first got his G.E.D. from Inde- forward to coming in to work everyday. “When I went around, I asked about

since there are fewer seats in to get the classes they need. but they want the please turn to pg. 8 One of these Art 1 instead. “Let me give you an example of one pendence High School in East San Jose. “When you guys come, you find it 15 teachers who should win the award,”

honors. Also, students in regu- Nevertheless, the guidance periods to fit per- students, junior She had to make a compro- person’s job [for one night],” Guzman Guzman then worked different jobs, in- nice and clean, and when you leave, you Anderson said. “And I’m not exaggerat-

lar classes have an even harder department considers this fectly and we can never prom- Sanjna Verma, had tried nu- mise, but in the end, she will said. “The entire science building, the cluding custodial, maintenance, electri- know it’s not the same. The next day, it’ll ing; every single one of them said Ever

time trying to move up. school year a success regard- ise that.” merous times to enroll in ce- be able to fulfill her visual arts MAP building, the music wing, wood- cal and plumbing positions. He came to be nice and clean,” Guzman said. “And, Guzman. It’s definitely his hard work

AP and honors classes have ing placing everyone into the Likewise, Allen said, “Get- ramics to fulfill her visual arts requirement as planned. u shop, the weight room, the main office, Saratoga in 1991. you know, that’s the way it should be. We [that won him the award]. But what’s re-

and the H1 room. It takes about 15 to 17 “I heard about [the head custodian work hard to deliver good classrooms ally above the cut is his attitude.” u

opinion 9

THE THE

saratogafalcon saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 OPINION

8

September 16, 2011



Facebook study groups

THIRDPERIOD

saratogafalcon.org/opinion

STAFFPOLICy





Crammed into classes

The Saratoga Falcon is published five times per









help out-of-class learning

semester by the Advanced Journalism classes

of Saratoga High School, 20300 Herriman

Ave., Saratoga, CA 95070.



Views expressed in The Saratoga Falcon are



TeacherS FOrceD TO bear those of the writers and do not necessarily

represent the opinions of the administration,









T

faculty or school district.

The burDen OF increaSeD MISSIONSTATEMENT

hursday night has ar-

rived again, and senior

Facebook can and should be used as an

additional study tool to help students

emails to students because students

usually check Facebook much more of-



claSS SizeS The staff of The Saratoga Falcon is committed

to objectively and accurately representing the

Evan Ye is quickly run-

learn and understand material. Addi-

tionally, teachers can use Facebook as

a teaching tool and a means of commu-

ten than they do email.

By linking students to sources,

teachers eliminate persistent prob-

diverse talents, cultures and viewpoints of the ning to his computer. Nothing

Saratoga High School community. nication with students. lems—such as students neglecting to

needs to be typed or printed. For the 2011-2012 school year, Face- print notes—and offer another source

LETTERS EDITOR Instead, he logs into his Face- book groups exist for all of the AP sci- for students to immerse themselves in









THE

TO

book account, seeing dozens ences, save AP Environmental Science, the given subject.

The Saratoga Falcon welcomes all signed let- plus groups for AP Calculus AB and For this reason, certain teachers like

ters of opinion, which are subject to editing of notifications from the school BC. Trig/Precalculus Honors and Algebra 2

for length, accuracy and grammar. Please send AP Biology group: students All of the aforementioned groups teacher P.J. Yim have created Facebook

AP Statistics

them to editors@saratogafalcon.org. For ad in- are created and maintained by stu- groups for their classes themselves.

formation, phone (408) 867-3411, ext. 222. asking for the date of the next dents, each with one to three adminis- Not only does group ownership allow

exam, for the definition of an

AP Computer Science

trators who function as “moderators” an instructor to regulate what types of

allosteric enzyme and if they for the discussions that take place. conversations go on in the group, but

Editor-in-Chief

Online study groups allow stu- it also allows the teachers to make an-

David Eng need to print out the Chapter 6 dents to pose questions to many of nouncements, follow up on lectures

Econ News/Associate Editor

Anoop Galivanche

lecture notes before next class. their classmates simultaneously, often

Ye is one of the administrators of a yielding immediate response and dis-

and offer help to any students who

may need or request it.

Opinion user-made AP Bio group on Facebook, cussion. Some believe that members of an

Jason Wu which was created during the sum- For the benefit of teachers, Facebook online Facebook group also must be

mer. can be used as a place for teachers to Facebook friends; however, this is not

AP Lang Sports Editor

Roy Bisht

In a world in which people some- post links to lectures, diagrams and

times seem to communicate more any websites that could help students

the case. Yim, for example, is not a Fa-

cebook friend of any of his students.

Specialty Editors through technology than in person, further learn material that was taught Additionally, the problem of “troll-

Ceramics Sarah Hull

Parul Singh

the intersection of Facebook and in class. Follow-up comments and

school has been a long time coming. clarifications for test dates also make

ing,” or posting inflammatory com-

ments, is an issue that can be easily

students more handled if the administrators do their

Lifestyles Editors

Cecilia Hollenhorst aware of the jobs properly, regardless of whether

Aanchal Mohan Opinion of the Falcon Editorial Board happenings of students or teachers run the group.

the class. Because Facebook makes it easier

Entertainment Editor Editor-in-chief Opinion Editor Web Editor

David Eng Jason Wu Aasim Naqvi

Using Face- for students to learn and understand

Paul Jung

book is much material, schools should embrace it as

School Scope Editor The Saratoga Falcon staff voted 35-4 in favor of Facebook study groups. more reliable a 21st century learning tool and utilize

Kelly Liu than sending it to its fullest potential. u



AP Calculus In-Depth Editor

Jackie Gu





History in Film

Backpage Editor

Olivia Chock



Webmasters

Parents: stay out of our parking lot

English 11H AP Biology Adult drop-off hAbitS botherSome for upperclASSmen driverS

Amy Jan

Brandon Judoprasetijo

Aasim Naqvi





AP Chinese English 9 Graphics Editor

Alex Ju

BY RoyBisht



Waking up on a recent Thursday

candidcaricatures

FALCON // CULLAN MCCHESNEY

Art Editor



Chemistry Honors

morning, senior Krishnan Raman

Cullan McChesney

opened his eyes to see a red 7:32 glar-

Head Photographer ing at him. Realizing that he had slept



World History

Lillian Chen an hour too long, he showered in a rush

and raced to school. Arriving at school

Head Copy Editors

Sabrina Cismas at 7:47, Raman estimated that if he could

Michael Lee park quickly and run to class he would

Vivian LeTran make it on time for the 7:50 first period

BY SabrinaCismas In order to provide a successful and safe Academic adversities cause they too will fall in the same pot as bell. However, a parent pulled into the

learning environment, class size restric- The academic atmosphere in a class- the cheater if a teacher believes that they Business Manager

Allison Toh only open junior lot spot to drop-off their

As students walked into their classes tions should be extended to all subject room struggles when too many students let the other person look at their papers. child, which forced Raman to spend a

Derek Sun

for the first time on Aug. 22, most were areas. are present. One-on-one help and ques- It is understandable that the school few more minutes looking for a spot and

greeted by the regular arrangements of Michele Drouin’s 4th period AP Cal- tion time becomes unfairly limited when would have a hard time implementing Head Technician arrive late to class.

inspirational posters, floods of green culus AB class is an example of an over- teachers are confronted with many stu- class size caps when it was hit by both Mac Hyde

Parents parking in the student lots for

course sheets and ice-breakers. Few, flowing one. The desks line the walls dents. Teachers have difficulty fitting all monetary constraints and an unexpect- Photographers drop-off is a frustrating issue for upper-

however, expected that their classes in closely packed rows with sufficient of their lectures and activities into the edly high enrollment. However, the suc- Dylan Jew classmen crunched for time each morn-

would be stuffed with more than three walking space available only in the front allotted time, especially in AP and hon- cess of a school begins in the classroom. Jay Mulye ing. Students like Raman are angered ev-

dozen students. of the classroom, opposite the exit at the ors classes, leaving the small amount re- Extra additions or improvements to the Sanj Nalwa

Minu Palaniappan ery time they are pushed one step closer

In order to help compensate for ex- back of the class. maining to be divided among all the stu- school should be a lower priority when Ashwini Velchamy to a Saturday School by a parent’s selfish

tra student enrollment and limited re- After the end bell rings, a line forms at dents. Students who do not understand the core is falling apart. motives caused by an unwillingness to ALEX JU

sources, many classes have exceeded the door, and it takes a couple of minutes the material and are ignored in class can- Reporters/Layout Artist

follow rules. With school starting at 7:50 pus. It is very unfair for parents to take distance of the school. Taking advantage

last year’s average number of students. for everyone to exit the classroom. In the not always resort to a packed tutorial for Simple solutions for the future Katherine Chang

Edward Dong a.m. for most students, there is not much spots from students in the parking lots of these options would relieve much of

According to assistant principal Brian case of an emergency when fast escapes clarification, especially if it falls after a A simple redistribution of students Anushree Dugar time to spare for students who cannot designed for them. the congestion in the parking lot and

Safine, last year’s student body total of are crucial, 39 agitated people will not be test or a hard night of homework. could be a solution, as some classes fall Matt Foley find a parking spot. The reason students buy the permits drop-off areas before and after school ev-

1,354 increased to 1,393 this year, and se- able to escape in a timely fashion. Although the school is known for below the 20 student mark. Hiring an Ingrid Hong

The name parking lot is to allow them to get to ery day. Even though the school would

niors are outnumbered by 43 freshmen. Apart from emergency issues, large stressing a stringent integrity policy, it al- extra teacher or two could make the dif- Samuel Liu

makes it clear that there

bigidea school faster. love to solve this traffic issue, much of









THE

Grace Ma

Science classes, which are located in class sizes also pose a health hazard lows too many students in classes, which ference between students having a firm Nikil Ramanathan is only one purpose for In previous years, the problem is in the parents’ hands. The

some of the largest and newest build- to students. Once flu season starts and inclines them to cheat. Many teachers grasp on a subject and lagging in class. Karen Sung which the area should be Parents in student lot there had been a group school cannot control where or how long

ings on campus, are not permitted to ex- germs circulate around the school like are stringent about practices to prevent Electives could implement limits imme- Jonathan Young

used—parking. There is Problem: Parents in the of eight students acting it takes parents to drop-off their children.

ceed 30 students due to safety concerns, wildfire, packing students in close quar- cheating, but no matter how many cal- diately; this doesn’t mean that students an entirely separate area student parking lot congest as traffic patrol to guide The longer that the parents take to drop-

but a limit does not exist for any other ters will insure quick spreading. It is culator lids or water bottles are removed are barred from taking certain classes, for drop-off and pickup traffic and contribute to late parents where to drop- off their children, the more congested

classes. very uncomfortable for a student to turn during a test, a person who is two feet they’ll just need to wait another year to Adviser that spans across the students. Previous attempts off and guide students the traffic in the parking lot and Herri-

away from the person coughing on their away from another has many opportu- do so. It is not necessary to resort to pri- Mike Tyler to fix this with student traffic

whole front side of the where to park. However, man Avenue gets. If the drop-off process

Safety struggles right, only to be sneezed on by the per- nities to let their eyeballs roam. This is vate school class limits, but the school school, providing par- guides proved unsuccessful. this proved to be inef- was more efficient, parents would not

Walls should not dictate class sizes. son on their left. especially unfair to honest students be- should at least keep rosters in the 20s. u ents with enough space ficient as many parents need to park in the student lots to drop-

Solution:

to drop-off their children Encourage more students to ignored the traffic patrol, off their children and many of the issues

falconfigures Printed by Folger Graphics

in Hayward, California in the drop-off lane. With

this lane available, there

walk and bike to school. and all eight students on

duty were consistently

would be solved.

Students should have the rights to the

tardy. spots in their parking lots and allowing





30

is no reason for parents





39 3.5 371

Number of students The maximum *Various contributions were also made

Percent of one-year Number of students number of people to be in the student park- A possible solu- parents to drop-off children in those lots

in Michele Drouin’s by the fourth-period newspaper staff

student growth from in this year’s allowed in one room ing lot. tion would just be for students to bike violates them. There is a drop-off lane

4th period AP last year to this year. freshmen class. Students buy parking permits so they and walk to school rather than drive to for a reason; there is no excuse for par-

Calculus AB class. of science building.

will be allowed to park in each of the school. Many students who are driven ents to continue to drop their kids in the

lots located on the front side of the cam- to school live within a walking or biking student parking lots. u

lifestyles

11

10 THE THE

OPINION September 16, 2011 saratogafalcon saratogafalcon

September 16, 2011

More students, Homecoming wrongly scheduled saratogafalcon.org/feature

more problems



Saratoga Runway

BY MattFoley candidcaricatures

& CeciliaHollenhorst

BY JonathanYoung

Homecoming. The word carries

The quad is packed, the lunch line is images of fun and celebration for stu-

endless and students are walking side- dents. It is supposedly a week to forget

ways through the halls trying not to stress while showing spirit through

bump into each other. Since when did dancing in quad days and cheering on

so many students walk the halls of this the football team. But again this year,

school? the dark cloud of SATs and major tests

This year, the school is more crowded

than any time in recent years. With only

will cast their shadows on the days of

festivity.

StudentS unleaSh their inner deSigner by Selling their own brandS

Custom Jewelry Designing

327 students in the graduating class last For the second consecutive year,

year and 370 freshmen this year, the Homecoming is in the same week as

Stephanie Poo: Custom Jewelry Designer

school has experienced a substantial 3.5 the October SAT and the end of the









Stephanie Poo

percent one-year growth. Designing jewelry comes naturally ter that, I started a blog

first six-week grading period. Students to senior Stephanie Poo, who has sold (peachsmoothies.tumblr.com) and

already overwhelmed by projects and original jewelry designs and custom- since then sales transactions have be-

Scarce Resources homework in preparation for the end

This increase has strained resources made pieces for three years. She an- come much easier. I don’t have enough

of the grading period will need to de- swered a few questions for the Falcon: time to make as many things as I wish I

and has made some on-campus tasks cide between academics and lasting

that were easier in the past more diffi- FALCON // ALEX JU could but if anyone has any requests, I

high school memories. How did you get started making am more than happy to comply.

cult. Although students invest months students to struggle to choose between ber break, imbalanced grading periods

Another disadvantage of the bigger jewelry?

of preparation into the SAT, the few spirit and studying, but also puts teach- would allow an extra week to fit in tests I started when my sister received a How much do you usually charge?

population is the longer lunch lines, ers in a difficult situation. and projects while also leaving time for

weeks prior to these tests are a crucial beading kit for her birthday but never The prices vary between $7-15. Ear-

which makes for impatient and restless

time for them to get in any last-minute It is understandable for Homecom- Homecoming. used it, so she gave it to me. I learned rings tend to cost less than necklaces,

students. The lines are so long that some

studying they may need, as well as ing to be scheduled around a game the Students should be encouraged to the basics from books but it really depends on the

students end up getting their meals al-

most halfway through lunch. In addi-

catching up on sleep to be focused on football team is likely to win, but hold- spend the end of the grading period and a brief lesson from Peach materials used in that par-









FALCON // LILLIAN CHEN

the day of the test. However, students ing it the same week as two very im- studying and asking teachers questions, my eighth grade art ticular piece.

SmoothieS

tion, if many students want the same

item to eat (e.g., a B.L.T. from the Grab under pressure to memorize quad day portant academic deadlines will yield not provided the ultimate distraction of teacher.

& Go line), the item runs out extremely routines, create large-scale decorations, more problems than benefits. Exhaust- an all-week, school-wide party. Do you plan on continu-

fast, sometimes even within the first 10 write essays and study for tests may ed students will not be able to enjoy a Though many see Homecoming as a What types of designs do you have? ing making jewelry after high school?

minutes of lunch. not find the time to get more than a few football victory that falls the night be- kick-off to the year, it may be more en- I use mainly Swarovski crystal As long as I am able to afford the

Along with limited food, the school hours of sleep the nights of Homecom- fore the SAT. joyable as a mid-semester celebration. beads, pearls, and a great variety of materials, I think I will continue.

has many other limited resources. This ing week. If holding Homecoming during the If scheduled two weeks after the six- chain. Recently I have been adding

includes fewer textbooks in the library, While teachers often attempt to light- sixth week is the only option, an imbal- week grading period, from Oct. 24-29, bows to my designs. What is your favorite thing about

and classrooms to lend out to students. en the homework load during the week anced grading period ending a week Homecoming would serve as a reward making jewelry?

Also, there aren’t enough computers in of Homecoming, most find it necessary later could be explored in order to al- for students after studying hard for the When did you start selling your When I see someone else wearing

the library for everyone who wants to to hold unit tests or assign large projects low students to truly enjoy Homecom- SATs and sorting out grades before the pieces? something I made, making jewelry

use them. during the sixth week of school in order ing and understand the importance of six-week grading period ends. While a I started selling my jewelry after feels especially rewarding.

There are many instances when there to fit in enough major assignments for grading period checkpoints. Just as the less-likely win in a game facing Milpi- my mother wore a necklace I gave to Courtesy of Stephanie Poo

aren’t any seats available in the library the six-week grading period. When the calendar includes imbalanced semes- tas is not ideal, neither is a stress-filled her for her birthday at a meeting. Af- ––Cecilia Hollenhorst

and students have to wait in line. With two weeks overlap, it not only forces ters this year to accommodate Decem- week of important tests and events. u

more students, the line could become

even worse. Taking Shirts to the Next Level

Retweet this: Oxford’s new words

This surge has also negatively im-

pacted extracurricular programs, such as “Hey guys! Do you like my new clothes?” Although “He had to dress up as a French explorer for a 4th









Claire Couch

sports and music. The surge in students many students would automatically assume this ques- grade explorer report, and one day he says, ‘Claire! Check

increases the competition to join sports tion refers to new fashion at the mall, the latest shirts your email!’ so I open up my email and see this image

teams; thus, more students are cut and BY KellyLiu is applicable to all ages and groups. English language because they may be around campus are made by senior Claire Couch. Couch where his beret actually looks like an afro,” Couch said.

excluded from these activities. Angus Stevenson, the dictionary’s relevant only for a small group of peo- has started making her own T-shirt designs for her new “So I emailed it to my sister thinking it looked hilarious

As for orchestra, most students usu- In a world where the Internet is a editor, argued otherwise, saying the ple or a short time span. clothing line, Clouch. and she said to put it on a shirt, so I did!”

ally pay for their own uniforms and in- vital part of our lives, many readily dictionary should document all perma- The addition of technology-origi- Clouch all began with a school project last school year. Not only does Couch produce shirts, but she also sells

struments if they play a viola or violin. recognize online slang such as “woot,” nent and popular words. He contended nated words to the OED has been done “In MAP (Media Arts Program) class, we had to do a hand bags as well as other items.

However, for bigger instruments like the “sexting,” “retweet,” “mankini” and in an interview with the Telegraph, before. In the past, the OED has also project where I had to make a superhero costume, so I put “I use a stencil, so anything that can be painted on can

cello and stringed bass, students are al- “cyberbullying.” These words have be- “It’s how the dic- added and defined “OMG” a person’s face on a T-shirt, and everyone said ‘Oh! That’s be made,” said Couch, who resourcefully makes her own

lowed to borrow from the school. If more come so standard that according to The tionary has always and “<3.” It seems ridicu- so cool!’ and suggested I start making shirts, so I started,” stencils.

students are interested in those bigger Telegraph, the Oxford English Diction- worked—we get as

bigidea lous that the “<3” symbol Couch said. “Then people began getting more and more Couch uses sheet protectors, cuts them open, then

THE









instruments, the school has to buy more ary (OED) added them into its recently much evidence as has to be defined as an ac- interested, so I started selling them.” puts them on an image and uses an exact-

instruments, which is expensive. released 12th edition. we can so we know tual word. Couch sells her homemade T-shirts for $10 clouch o-knife to to cut out the stencil.









FALCON // LILLIAN CHEN

Words added to Oxford

If the trend in increased musical inter- The OED has been acknowledged it’s not just a small Standard and colloquial to $12 and has sold more than 15 thus far. “Making a stencil usually takes around

est continues, this could be costly for the as the definitive authority on the Eng- number of people 1. woot dictionaries need to separate “Clouch shirts are very personal,” said senior Michael two hours,” Couch said. “Then painting the shirt usually

school and this could possibly lead to lish language. However, the OED has using the word and proper English and short- Zucarrino. “They aren’t just screened. They’re painted, takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.”

the introduction of tryouts and cuts into breached the fine line between collo- it’s not going to dis- 2. sexting handed English apart to and they have a lot of personality.” After the stencil is finished, Couch paints on the de-

these programs. quial slang and standard words that appear.” 3. retweet preserve the eloquent stan- “Being that this is a start-up business focused more sign with fabric paint. With 12 stock designs and more

The problem isn’t major at the mo- should be included in the English dic- If that was the dard of the official language. on my love to design rather than produce massive profit, possible designs due to custom orders, Clouch has quick-

ment, but if the student population tionary. case, then how per- 4. mankini Slang should only be added I charge the bare minimum to stay afloat,” said Couch. ly grown.

continues to increase, there could be a Despite the fact that languages are manent is the new into the formal dictionaries “There’s no better feeling than walking the halls and see- Currently, Couch’s main hope for Clouch is to keep

problem. The school is struggling as it is bound to change based on the cultural word “retweet,” 5. cyberbullying if those words are shown in ing someone wearing their Clouch original tee.” producing unique T-shirts that many people will enjoy

to accommodate 1,393 students. As the influence of the media and trends, it is which is a term newspapers, essays or any In addition, Clouch’s Facebook promotion page is up- wearing.

size increases, so do the problems. The

6. OMG

shameful to have Internet slang such as from the social net- writings that display proper dated with information and photographs. In order to buy “I’m just having a lovely time designing and produc-

school must compensate and after a cer- “sexting” and “retweet” be a part of a working company 7. <3 English. Otherwise, there or have a special shirt made, anyone can message Couch ing orders as they come in,” Couch said. “My goal is not

tain point, they will be incapable of do- prestigious dictionary. The job of a dic- Twitter? Twitter is are strictly vernacular dic- through her Facebook page ‘Clouch.’ for Clouch to rule the world, but to have fun and see

ing so effectively. tionary is to document a language that popular, but it is not tionaries that are at the pub- Couch’s first T-shirt design was an image of her young- where it leads me.”

is relevant to a specific group of people as widespread as lic’s disposal. er brother with a drawn-on mustache and beret. ––Lillian Chen

Possible Solutions are using. Facebook. Instead, “retweet” should be So if you do not understand “wage



Productive Boredom

For now, the school can do a few If scientific words are separated defined in informal English dictionar- withholding,” look it up in a law dic-

things to help with these problems. They from the general English dictionary, ies such as the website Urban Diction- tionary. If you do not understand

can try to separate the hot lunch line, then slang should be excluded as well. ary. Urban Dictionary’s word entries “Brownian motion,” look it up in a sci-

which is always the longest, in two and This is because Internet slang is used are strictly related to vernacular slang entific dictionary. If you do not under- Although many purchase the shirts of but in order to make any kind of profit, I

Kevin Pan









they can also provide more textbooks by the young generation, not the entire or slurs from a wide variety of sub- stand “mankini,” the OED can help you other designers, senior Kevin Pan designs have to sell them at $20.

and computers for the library. However, population including the elderly. Since cultures which can be submitted by with that, but the OED should have left his own apparel. Falcon reporters caught

these changes are only temporary and the OED is a general English dictionary, anyone. These words covered by Urban the conversational words to a vernacu- up with him to find out more about his What gave you the idea to put your

cost quite a bit of money. it should contain standard English that Dictionary are not part of the official lar dictionary. u business. shirts online?

For the future, if the school size I thought it would be nice. Using the

keeps growing, bigger changes need to Who have you sold your website is risk free so why not?

be made. The school could expand and

build more classrooms, hiring more

togatalks shirts to and what are the de-

signs like?

PotS and How long do you plan on

PanS









FALCON // LILLIAN CHEN

teachers in the process. They could also I’ve sold about 10 shirts so creating shirts for?

expand the parking lot, to accommodate I think that’s far, mainly to friends, but also Whenever I’m bored I’ll just

I think it’s bad.

for the increased number of student What do you It really shows

really cool! It one person from UCSD. Each one is a dif- start drawing something and if I think it’s

feels like our ferent design. nice I’ll upload the design, so forever.

drivers. They could even expand the li- think of Oxford how much our generation is

brary, making it easier for students to get generation is

textbooks they need. adding slang to influenced by

really making our

impact on the

Where can I see your designs? What is your favorite thing about de-

These expansions are very costly its pages? technology.” You can view my designs at potsand- signing shirts?

world.”

and maybe impossible, given the space pans.spreadshirt.com I like the fact that I get money, see peo-

needed and today’s economy. But if the junior Geena Zhou senior Angie Chang ple wearing my designs and have fun do-

school keeps getting more and more stu- How much does each shirt cost? ing it.

dents in the future, the school has to do I would rather sell each shirt for $10-15 — Lillian Chen Courtesy of Kevin Pan

something. u

12 LIFESTYLES

THE

saratogafalcon LIFESTYLES 13

September 16, 2011





Junior: Year of the sleep-deprived?



Now that I’m a...

BY AllisonToh have to own.” hope students also see the value in pursuing

Most juniors are introduced to AP courses things they are passionate about including

when registering for their junior classes as things outside of school.”

Junior year. Who knew that just two

sophomores. Because most students have Torrens wishes for the junior class to

simple words could hold such a terrible

not experienced the actual workload of an really enjoy being juniors. While the year

reputation, make a person’s heart drop and

AP course prior to enrolling, they are usually is one of the most challenging, it does

convince students that they were on the

faced with a greater amount of work than come with an extensive list of perks: being

brink of utter torture?

they ever expected. identified as an upperclassmen, being able



Everyone’s looking for ward to something this year

Complaints about this notorious high

“I also think that the conceptions we to go off campus for lunch, Junior Prom

school year are endless and typically well

often have in this community that a student and so much more. Although balancing

founded. However, students only must

will only achieve success in their future challenging academics, test prep, sleep

endure this year once, while teachers watch

and/or get ‘into a good college’ if they and a social life can be difficult, it is still

a new group of juniors tackle the same

overload themselves with every class and important for juniors to occasionally

obstacles year after year.

every extracurricular is, for the most part, find time for themselves to relax even

“Junior year is very demanding,

not true,” Ritchie said. “If you are a driven for a second and enjoy their time with

All graphics by Alex Ju especially compared to most sophomore

person, you will be successful no matter keepin’

it

their friends.

schedules,” English 11 Honors teacher cl4ssy

class of 2012 what classes you take or what college you “In all reality, the rigors of the

Natasha Ritchie said. “There is clearly a high

go to.” junior year will not go away soon for

demand on time, energy, and expectations





Freshman: Frosh are friends, not food

Torrens agreed with Ritchie’s stance on the reasons I mentioned,” Torrens

for students junior year. In addition, SATs

AP/Honors courses. He refers to the rising said. “So Juniors need to do things

are looming and people start talking about

emphasis on college as “a tremendous that make [them] happy and smile.“

college applications.” For many, it may be

pressure that rides through this school like Torrens also encourages juniors

difficult to fathom how this year came to be,

a wave. We all know the kids who ride the to be more daring, and most

my turn,” Hull said. presents problems since it can be difficult well, a stressful nightmare.

StaffReport wave almost seamlessly but so many kids importantly, look out for each

An older sibling can also offer useful to escape the shadow of an older sibling. “I think we all share in the blame for

get knocked over.” other. “Smile at someone in your

Freshmen students’ first days of highcl4ssy

tips and general knowledge about classes, “I feel like I’m constantly being that added stress,” AP US History teacher

keepin’ it

However, even under intense pressure, APUS class who you have never

school are often fraught with anxiety and teachers, the layout of the school and compared to her,” Hull said. “Sometimes I Matt Torrens said. “The colleges create an

junior year never fails to shower its victims talked to before. Ask that girl to

apprehension as they do not know what to anything else that may cause concern. feel as though my teachers like me simply application process that puts high value on

with the opportunity to grow and find out the dance you never thought

expect of their classes, teachers or fellow “My sister has given so much helpful because they liked her, and not because SATs, parents push [students] to take prep

more about themselves as they overcome noticed you... Since you can’t see

students. Freshman Rachel Hull, however, advice. She’s told me where good places they like me for me.” classes, teachers think their AP course is the

obstacle after obstacle. stress until it’s often too late, you

has an edge over her peers: her older in the quad to eat lunch are, when to use This phenomenon makes it essential for most important and so pile on the projects,

“Most 11th graders are mature enough may never know when a word of

sister, senior Sarah Hull, has already told my locker, what school supplies to buy and younger siblings to distinguish themselves students walk around bragging about how

to really dig deep into material and I really encouragement or a smile may

her everything she needs to know so much more,” Hull said. “Even and create their own niche within the many AP’s they take … it’s a climate of

enjoy teaching the age group,” Ritchie said. make someone’s day,” Torrens

about high school. though it’s up to me to make my school. stress that has created a monster that we all

“I understand that it is a stressful year, but I said. u

“Because of my sister, I knew own choices, keeping my sister’s “I want to set myself apart somehow

exactly what to expect on the first advice in mind always comes in from my sister so that I can’t be compared

day,” Hull said. “I already had handy.” to her in every aspect,” Hull said. “Unlike

painted a picture of high school in She added that her sister also my sister, who is a cheerleader, I’ve joined

my mind, so it wasn’t as much of a assisted her when the time came to the field hockey team this year.”

shock for me as it was for some of choose her classes. Despite these obstacles, Hull ultimately

the other students.” “She knows that I love writing, believes that it is incredibly beneficial to

Having an older sibling who R. Hull so she suggested that I sign up for have an older sibling on campus.

has already experienced what high Journalism 1,” Hull said. “Having a sibling at the same school as





Senior: Finally (almost) done

school has to offer can greatly benefit the “This year, coincidentally, I’m taking me is like having a net below me while I

younger sibling and make the transition all the same classes as my sister did her walk a tight rope,” Hull said. “If anything

from middle school to high school much freshman year, but she assured me that goes wrong, I always know she’ll be there

smoother. starting on this academic path in my first to back me up. That’s really what being a

“[The transition] was definitely easier year at high school will help in the long sibling is all about, and I’m so glad that sister to come out. My mom always truly surreal.

because I had already seen her go through run.” this year we finally get to be in the same pulled the car in front of the gym, Many people eagerly anticipate

high school for three years before it was Taking similar classes occasionally school.”u and I used to stare admiringly at senior year because they think

the falcon logo and little pieces of they will gain a new type of status

class of 2012

the mural coming together, which among other students. Now that

had been under construction they’re seniors, they can have

for several months. My sister an awesome Quad Day, drive

Sabrina Cismas frequently came out through the their own cars, and go to that

main entrance, surrounded by a highly anticipated Senior Prom.

It’s Cismas Business laughing group of friends, and I I, however, am looking forward

would always see her smiling at to this year not just for these





Sophomore: In the middle of nowhere “I AM a senior. I had some me through the car window.

trouble rolling my tongue From making “Don’t Miss

around these words on This, Vote For Cismas” T-shirts

the first day of school, as I for her senior class presidential

materialistic advantages, but to

the realization that I have finally

crossed over into territory that

I have been looking forward to

keepin’ it

cl4ssy could hardly believe they told the campaign, to watching her finish since I was a kid.

topten truth. Most students wait three up an AP Computer Science final

years of high school to reach this project the night before it was due

Now I will know what it felt like

for my sister during her time here,

ThINGS TO lOOk fORWARD TO ThIS YeAR point in their lives, but I’ve looked with a certain student-turned- and be part of the picture that had

forward to this moment since I current English teacher at the high such an impact on my childhood.

10 You can finally start driving. You still can’t go off

campus, though, so one more year of cookies and

5 You’re used to 90-minutes periods, so focusing

during class will be a breeze. Technically.

keepin

’ it

cl4ssy

was 4 years old. class

of

school, my sister’s senior year

My sister and I are 11 years2012especially stood out in my mind

I don’t know if I’ll ever be

able to organize a Thriller dance

pizza from the cafeteria... apart, making me a preschooler as an energetic and happy time. for Quad Day or breeze through

when she started Saratoga High. I In my eyes, her senior year was Calculus, but for now I’m just

9 You don’t have to pull out a map in the middle of the

hallway, blocking everyone’s path. Actually, where

4 You’re more familiar with the teachers at school. Mr.

Yim has a passion for biking; go bond with him over

remember getting picked up from the defining moment of her teen happy that my senior portrait has

school, driving over to the front years, and for me to finally have finally found a spot hanging next

was Mr. Scott’s room again? that! parking lot and waiting for my reached this same time period is to hers in the living room. u



8 You don’t have to endure the chants of “Go home 3 There’s no need to go through your closet friday

freshmen!” Just kidding, most upperclassmen can’t

tell the underclassmen apart.

morning, trying to find something green to wear to

rallies...Oh wait, no one does that anyway.

top ten

BEnEFITS oF SEnIor YEar

7 You can step on the falcon mural without worrying

that you’ll completely ruin it for the football team.

2 Now it’s your turn to silently laugh at the freshmen

when they struggle to carry the water coolers before

and after sports practice. 10 We finally get the clappers at the rallies

because everyone knows we’ll win.

5 Our ID pictures no longer go in the yearbook.

Right when they started looking decent.

6 You can turn around the term “freshie.” “You’re just

a freshie, stop complaining about your homework

1 let’s face it, we’re sophomores; there isn’t much to

look forward to .... but at least we’re not freshmen or

load!” juniors! 9 We can now double-up on science. Wait,

last year we could as juniors. 4 No school on STAR test week. We would

have cut by spring anyway.

karen Sung



togatalks 8 We get to apply to college. Yay, more essays!

3 Senior Prom. Because everyone’s looking for-

ward to that.



How do you “As a freshman, you are automatically looked down upon by all the 7 We get top parking spots in front of the

school. Then we have to run to AP Physics 2 Senior Quad Day. We will blow your minds

before the Apocalypse does.

think this other classes. You are given a lot more attention because everyone first period.

wants to make fun of the freshman class. It’s harder as a freshman

year will because you already have so many other worries about the transition, 6 Once we turn 18, we can register as adults in

the office. Colds are now limited to five days 1 Getting a bad case of Senioritis. You’ll cure

up right away after you find you’ve been re-

differ from harder classes, and social situations. As a sophomore, all that pressure per semester. scinded.

is relieved because we already know how high school is, we’re used

freshman to it, and the spotlight is no longer on us. We also have a lot more sophomore Sabrina Cismas

year? upperclassmen friends.” Raiza De Vera

14 ENTERTAINMENT September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

THE

saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 ENTERTAINMENT 15



SUMMER

ThiS Summer The movie induSTry releaSed a flood

Of SEQUELS

of movie SequelS—Some greaT, oTherS noT



Last ‘Potter’ movie unforgettable ‘On Stranger Tides’ ratings drop anchor

ing amount of feelings for a fictional looking teenagers slurping Starbucks tume they wore to the final Harry Pot- BY IngridHong beard to reach the island that houses Bloom and Keira Knightley; it’s just tunity by returning writers Ted Elliott

universe! Cry, because this is the emo- emerged. There were Bellatrixes, Mal- ter premiere, and I regret absolutely

tional equivalent of helplessly watch- foys, and a couple of people who tried nothing. the legendary fountain. Meanwhile, not the same without them. and Terry Rossio for any verbal caper-

ing your own puppy drown! Cry!) in vain to conceal their noses and pass As for the movie itself? Well, I’ll As a loyal fan of the Pirates of the the peg-legged Barbossa, working for Don't get me wrong, this movie ing.

When the date finally came, I was as Voldemort. There may even have let you form your own opinions on it. Caribbean movies, I had high hopes King George, heads for the same des- does have a few humorous mo- The rest of the pirates, mean-

A.) ridiculously sleep-deprived be- been a Hagrid, although I’m still not My own reaction, however, was nicely for the fourth installment, eager to tination and gives Sparrow one more ments. While a fifth and sixth while, are forced to speak in

cause I’d spent the past 20 hours sure if he was a guy in costume or just summed up by my friend’s Facebook witness Jack Sparrow outwit his next thing to worry about. movie are planned, I hope stilted, brigand-ese. “We be

marathon-ing the first seven mov- an abnormally large and hairy man. comment: “Honestly, Jackie flooded opponent. Early on, a group of British redcoats the screenwriters improve on sailing at dawn.” “You be

ies, B.) ridiculously sad because of all And, because it was our very last the theater with her tears and all I “Pirates of the Caribbean: On plucks Jack Sparrow from a coach and what they've got here. coming with us.” I be

Snapes on a Plane the aforementioned reasons (and also time, my friends and I completely could hear was her blubbering. It was Stranger Tides” is based on one of puts him in an ornate sitting room. What no one seemed to re- bored to mermaids’

because I couldn’t figure out how to threw dignity to the winds and ran great.” those mythological movie quests—in While waiting to be interrogated, Cap- member to pack was the fun tears.





T

his is going to be free of spoilers, make my Dobby ears attach), and C.) down the halls hollering after cos- It was the aftermath of the movie this case, the search for the Fountain tain Jack jumps forward, a few inches and wit that enlivened the Overall, the

so if you haven’t read the series ridiculously hungry, just because. tumed strangers we wanted pictures that really got to me, though. For a of Youth. It would seem a fitting back- at a time, and tries to grab the cream former films and helped movie lacks event-

and have somehow managed And although we got to the theater with. Yeah, we received plenty of fun- few days I refused to leave the house, drop for a blockbuster franchise tread- puff sitting on the table. That's a classic put the wind in their … ful twists and

the impossible task of steering clear of nine hours in advance, we were some- ny looks (“Kids these days,” clucked rereading the books and wallowing ing on thin ice by putting out its fourth Jack Sparrow moment: His life hangs sales. Depp reels and surprises. “On

Potter spoilers for 14 years, feel free to how still shunted behind several hun- an old lady judgmentally as we by- in despair. Eventually, I resumed my chapter. After all, isn't it the dream of in the balance, and all he cares about is staggers expertly; a mi- Stranger Tides”

continue reading. (But um, what are dred people who had probably slept passed her on our sprint to a particu- lurking of the Internet and was every big-budget sequel to seem as the sweet pastry in front of him. nor plot point finds his is so straight-

you doing with your life? Drop the there overnight. (Sorry, do I still sound larly well-made Dumbledore, and it forced to return to day-to-day fresh and new as the one before it, and That's about where the fun ends, old ship in a bottle, forward yet

APUSH! Burn the Bio! Potter is more bitter? Guess what? I AM.) made my entire night)—but the payoff life. But it was only when to ensure that the franchise itself stays though. The movie runs into the same which is appropriate plodding

important!) Frankly, though, the hours lead- was so worth all the stares that came I picked up forever youthful? A sequel like “On problems that plagued its second and given the state of its that it puts

For months, I had planned to attend ing up to the movie were probably our way. I now have dozens of on fanfic- Stranger Tides,” however, feels forced third outings—miserably verbose dia- captain. But he is the “old”

the final premiere on July 15 with a the highlight of my entire summer. photos of us smiling with tion (don’t on the audience. logue, an uninteresting subplot and given no chance to back in old-

few friends. We began stalking Ticket- Watching the mall fill up with legions strangers we’ll never lie, I know you The entire film consists of Spar- pointless supporting characters. And strike sparks with fashioned

master and Yahoo! Movies months in of overenthusiastic fans in die-hard know beyond what read it too) that I sin- row traveling aboard the run-down everyone knows that people only Cruz’s character, entertain-

advance, pouncing on the tickets the costumes filled me with a wonderful cerely realized—Harry Potter death ship of the sinister pirate Black- see these movies because of Orlando and little oppor- ment. u

day they were available for purchase. sense of unmistakable c o s - will never be over. Our generation







Revisiting childhood ‘Transformers 3’

But as we bought tickets to a Harry camaraderie, despite of youths, transformed by the truly

Potter premiere for the last time, real- the fact that I had magical power of fiction, will never

ity began to sink in. This was it. This never spoken to any stop dreaming and scheming about

was the final one. There would be no of them. There were the world that really isn’t fictional for





in ‘Winnie the Pooh’ crashes and burns

more thrill of anticipation, no more Dobbies. There were us.

tears as the last credits rolled. Weasleys. There were So while we’ve been given a tempo-

It symbolized the end of an era, the Umbridges, Dumble- rary sense of closure, it isn’t really

end of an entire generation’s child- dores, and Snitches ga- ending. When I am eighty

hood, and in all honesty I dreaded lore. There were groups years old, sitting Spencer is just a prop in the movie and

July 15 much more than I willed it of Death Eaters, one of in an armchair BY AmyJan

BY VivienLu scenes and “silly old bear” feeling. fails to enhance the plot.

closer. (It certainly didn’t help that all which I thought had and rereading & AllisonToh Even though the plot travels no fur- I still remember when the first Another facet of the movie that I

my favorite Internet haunts suddenly legitimately ter- my tattered copy ther than Pooh’s search for honey, “Transformers” movie came out in found to be extremely unrealistic was

began emitting mass amounts of Pot- rifying costumes of Deathly Hallows On July 15, Disney brought back peppered with minor obstacles 2007. The idea of a regular teenage boy when Carly talked a Decepticon, enemy

ter nostalgia. I’m tearing your child- until mall secu- for the umpteenth another favorite cartoon from our along the way, this elementary story finding a secret map and then cooper- of the Autobots, into a state of jealousy.

hood apart, piece by agonizing piece, rity made them time, my grandchildren childhoods this past summer. We line definitely offers a break from ating with alien robots to save Earth I don’t understand how a high tech ro-

the looming calendar seemed to mock. take their masks will ask me, After all this time? return to the Hundred Acre Woods the flashy movies. was very exciting. bot could be so easily deceived.

Cry, because you have an embarrass- off and grumpy- And I will reply, Always. u with “Winnie the Pooh.” The charm- The downside falls from the igno- This summer, the third installment The first “Transformers” movie

ing adventures of the silly old bear rance of all of the characters. At one of the Transformers series, “Dark of the about a normal teenager who discov-

and his animal friends reintegrates point, a misspelling of the phrase Moon,” was released. Unfortunately, ered alien robots called Autobots and





‘Kung Fu Panda 2’ packs a punch

the whimsical simplicity that many “back soon” causes pandemonium there were not many differences in the fought along with them to save the

newer movies and cartoons more in the Hundred Acre Woods, as the plot between this movie and the first planet seemed surreal the first time

frequently lack. animals design traps to capture a one. Aside from Sam Witwicky, played around. But with the second movie,

Unlike many digitally altered monster supposedly named “Back- by Shia LeBouf, reaching adulthood, what more could be added to the story

animated films of today, “Winnie son.” nothing else had changed. The line? In the second movie, “Transform-

BY VivianLeTran Po’s “Dragon Warrior” Kung Fu is unmatched gan with positive reception, with “Shrek” 1 and the Pooh” main- Another aggravating feature storyline felt repetitive. ers: Revenge of the Fallen,”

and provides thrilling action that keeps viewers on 2 both receiving 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, a tains a cozy was the lack of realistic sound ef- My aunt, who took me the plot lacked the novelty

Unlike failed sequels of other movies that were the edge of their seat. The fights, chases and explo- website that compiles movie reviews and gives the n o s - fects, especially the one emitted by to watch this movie, of the first movie and

hastily made with little thought, Dreamworks “Kung sions throughout the movie are only enhanced by movie a percentage score based on how many fresh talgia Pooh’s growling belly. It belched so couldn’t stop de- seemed to be just a

Fu Panda 2” definitely matches, if not surpasses, the astounding visual effects, such as the usage of “tomatoes” it receives verses rotten tomatoes. Nev- through unnaturally, it caught our attention riding Sam’s new bunch of crashing

the action-packed fun of the first movie released in 3D technology and beautiful, vibrant colors. ertheless, the third and fourth movie seemed to run i t s every single time. The songs sung in girlfriend, Carly metal sounds. Add-

2008. Indeed, “Kung Fu Panda 2” is an amazing movie; out of steam according to their mediocre ratings of hand- the movie also failed to uphold the Spencer (played by ing a third movie

The second installment expands on an aspect however, the forthcoming “Panda” sequels may be 41 percent and 57 percent, respectively. drawn reputation Disney has for its past Rosie Huntington- with an equally re-

untouched in the first movie: the fact that Po’s fa- a source of worry. “Shrek,” a According to a statement by Dreamworks chief successful soundtracks. The tunes Whitely), whose petitive plot was a

ther is a goose. While the silly, bumbling little goose series also produced executive Jeffrey Katzenberg in Empire Mag- were neither touching nor witty; sole purpose was major mistake by

who seems more concerned about his noodle shop by Dreamworks, is azine, there will be a total of six movies in instead they sounded more like to scamper about the producers.

than anything else was a source of humor in the first no doubt similar to the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise. The first monotonous banters set to an in ridiculously The action of the

movie, the relationship between Po and his father the “Kung Fu Pan- two movies show careful planning, thought even duller melody. high heels. (Re- movie is enthralling and

becomes a major concern to Po at probably the worst da” movies in many and effort, but we can only hope that this This is not a movie for those alistically, anyone the graphics are satisfac-

time ever. ways: They are both will hold true for future movies and looking for a flick to delve running for her life tory, but the plot is sub-

Though Po must face the mystery of his adoption hilarious movies the quality will not decrease the way deep into. In “Winnie the would ditch such cum- standard. This movie

while fighting Lord Shen, an evil peacock intent on with animated animals that “Shrek” did. Pooh,” what you see is what bersome footwear.) An succeeds purely as an

ruling the world, the movie still maintains a senti- in which the main charac- While the future of Kung Fu Panda you get. However, for those actress is supposed to action film replete

mentality and irresistible humor. While appealing to ter ends up in a position he may seem bleak, there is little conten- nostalgics who wish to revisit act, not just simply with effects, but will

younger kids, the film retains a witty sense of hu- had never expected to find tion that the second movie is superb and their childhoods, this movie run around scream- disappoint those

mor that still pertains to that of adults, or in our case, himself in. a must-see for those who have yet to witness will not fall short of your expec- ing (which even I seeking a capti-

teenagers. The “Shrek” movies be- Po’s “Dragon Warrior” Kung Fu. u tations. u can accomplish). vating plot. u









Images from Disney, Dreamworks, and Warner Bros. FALCON // ALEX JU

16 SCHOOL SCOPE September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

THE

saratogafalcon September 16, 2011 SCHOOL SCOPE 17





TOGA’S GOT

Junior Olympian runs big lengths: Steven Sum

BY SamuelLiu cross country championships. Fresh-

man Samuel Blake from Westmont High

TALENT

Singer aims for Broadway: Nina Jayashankar

5-5 and stick-skinny, freshman Steven School, Armstrong’s trainee and Sum’s

“Stevie” Sum does not appear to be an good friend, took first place. BY AnushreeDugar singing skills while participating in the

athlete, never mind an incredible one. “Although Samuel has been a two- California Music Educators Associa-

Yet beneath the seemingly frail exte- time national champion in cross coun- “Your future looks bright,” sopho- tion singing competition from grades

rior is the fastest runner on the school’s try,” Armstrong said, “this year in track, more Nina Jayashankar said when she 6-8, where she received multiple

cross country team, and this year, he Steven has won every time they've raced. read aloud her fortune cookie last year. awards through the years. Last year

may become the fastest As a result, Steven has The first thought that flew through her Jayashankar was one of 300 students

freshman in the entire proven himself to be mind was the one and only Broadway. nationwide invited to perform in the

country. In fact, this notion touched her heart prestigious National Honor Choir in

I definitely would say one of the top milers in so much, she decided to keep the slip March in Chicago.

“I definitely would the nation.”

say he's one of the best he’s one of the best Although Sum is of paper. Jayashankar had the opportunity to

in the U.S. [for his age in the U.S. [for his new to the cross country Ever since she was 3, Jayashankar work with some of the best young sing-

group],” said Brad Arm- age group.] team, he is well known has loved singing. Her mother sup- ers in the country as well as “fantastic

strong, Sum’s personal for his remarkable abil- ported her by introducing her to a directors who helped [her] dig deeper

coach. “He could be Sum’s personal coach ity. singing teacher when she was only 6. into the meaning of music.”

anywhere from number Brad Armstrong “Stevie is one of the Since then, she has shown her passion “National Honor Choir was an un-

one to 10 [in ranking].” best runners to come for singing by participating in musical forgettable experience,” Jayashankar

FALCON // MINU PALANIAPPAN

Armstrong, math into Saratoga [High] in theater and many competitions, consis- said. “I’ve never seen music to that ex- FALCON // MINU PALANIAPPAN

teacher Audrey Warmuth’s husband, a while,” cross country coach Dan Am- tently impressing her audiences. tent before this experience.”

Freshman Stevie Sum does a couple of sprints as a warm-up before starting practice. After hearing a girl in her piano Jayashankar also uses her singing

coaches elite middle/high school run- brico said. “I definitely expect him to be- Sophomore Nina Jayashankar sings “Halo” by Beyonce, one of her favorite songs.

ners, some of whom are Junior Olympic come a leader.” he knew he would win, which is why he cles to get pulled more easily, leading to class sing, Jayashankar was inspired skills to participate in the Children’s

champions. However, Sum is not as outwardly did. This was Steven's unique trait—he higher stress. However, Zarrin adds, ev- to sing as well. Since then, singing has Musical Theater (CMT). At CMT she consuming.” She loves the excitement of singing in

Doing Armstrong’s special workouts confident in himself as others are in had that quiet confidence that caught his eryone's “blueprint” is different. “defined me,” has starred in many musicals, includ- Despite this difficulty, however, front of an audience.

since six grade, him. competition by surprise.” In the future, Sum said, he will con- Jayashankar ing “13” and “Cinderella.” Jayashankar’s passion for singing has Jayashankar has been well support-

Sum’s mile time “I feel very flattered,” he said, “but I Sum’s impenetrable inner confidence tinue running merely as a physical exer- said. Sophomore Kristen Lo has watched shaped her personality and view of life. ed by her friends and family through-

improved dra- am also a little nervous about living up stems from hard work. On average, he cise, and he is not sure whether or not he W h e n a few of Jayashankar’s performances. Unlike many of her friends, Jayashan- out her singing career, and with contin-

matically from to such high expectations.” runs about five miles a day at a six min- will run competitively in college. Jayashankar “Nina exceeds in being an amazing kar said, she is “not afraid about how uous support she hopes to participate

4:59 in sev- Although some may take his meek- ute mile pace. The longest he has run is “I like running because it's fun, good went to Argo- actress in CMT,” Lo said. people will look at [her].” She has come in musical theater as an adult.









U

XJ

enth grade to ness as a sign of low confidence, Arm- about 10 miles. exercise, social and satisfying,” he said. naut Elementary, Musical theater has prevented her to express her feelings through singing The message in Jayashankar’s for-









LE

// A

4:42.5 in eighth strong says otherwise. Although Sum’s youth, work ethic “But it’s not my top priority. [My parents she performed in the from participating in many school ac- at lunch despite knowing “some peo- tune cookie has encouraged her to try









ON

variety show and sang tivities she wishes she has time for. ple will kind of look at [her] funny.” to accomplish her biggest dream of all:









LC

grade. “The two extra races he ran for the Ju- and innate talent provide him with the and I] value academics more than run-









FA

In sev- nior Olympics were just to show that he tools to excel at any level, some say that ning [because] they have a greater im- “AWhole New World” and With rehearsals after school lasting Jayashankar’s outgoing attitude to perform on Broadway. She imagines

enth grade, could compete with anyone, anywhere, a growth spurt may ruin his running ca- pact for college [applications].” “Reflections.”Jayashankar four to six hours, Jayashankar admit- makes her feel anxious instead of telling newscasters that her future was

S u m any time he wanted, and neither of these reer. Sum has a few goals for high school, continued to improve her ted that “musical theater is very time- frightened before large performances. determined because of a cookie. u

placed races were even close. It was a long track It can cause your body’s muscles to and none of them have anything to do

t h i r d season for Steven, and he really didn't “physically stretch out to fit your bones,” with running.



Virtuoso makes it to Carnegie Hall: Desmond Chan

in the have to prove anything anymore to said junior cross country runner David “I’m looking forward to freedom and

Junior anyone, including himself. He ran with Zarrin, whose running career faltered driving,” he said, smiling. “Driving’s

Olympics 3-kilometer confidence in every race and deep down due to a growth spurt. This causes mus- more efficient, and I’m lazy.” u



BY BrandonJudoprasetijo and often painful. Chan was blessed



Artist plans to pursue her passion: Kylie Tseng

& JonathanYoung with the wise teachings of his marimba

teacher Tammy Chen. By his sophomore

Carnegie Hall. If there were ever a year, Chan managed to become the pit

single building in the entire world that percussion section leader in the march-

symbolized the epitome of greatness ing band.

BY LillianChen let. and success in any musician’s career, “[Chen] was the one that showed me

“I still prefer the simple graphite Carnegie Hall would be it. While some what was capable on the instrument,

Although many adolescents devote pencil because with a pencil, you can people spend their whole life working like the difficulty of pieces that could be

more than a decade to selecting a ca- do so much and you have so much toward their mo- played on the ma-

reer, senior Kylie Tseng has wanted to control,” Tseng said. With a graphite ment in Carnegie, rimba,” Chan said.

be an artist since she was 6 years old. pencil, Tseng relishes drawing abstract senior marimba tal- Part of Chan’s

From early childhood, Tseng was as well as still life. It was arguably one of the

ent Desmond Chan success includes his

influenced by her family, who are all Dedicating a vast amount of time managed to earn his most remarkable perfor- masterful perfor-

artists of some sort. Tseng’s father to art, Tseng attends a two-hour art chance in the short mances I have seen out of mances at competi-

and older sister took up art as a hobby class every day except on Sundays and Courtesy of DESMOND CHAN

while her mother pursued it as a career. Mondays. Tseng even takes two classes

time of three years. a high school student in tions. Chan was se-

“If you really like 14 years. lected as one of 30 Senior Desmond Chan performs in Carnegie Hall, New York, on April 30 as one of the 30

Tseng’s mother is a graphic de- on Saturdays. something a lot, then grand winners after

signer. This past summer, she took grand winners of the National Young Musicians Showcase Competition.

you shouldn’t need Music department sending in an au-

“Ever since I was in the first classes at the Academy of Art someone to go tell dition video at the

chairman Michael Boitz to play a solo recital at “Ding Ding TV,” it back together,” Chan said. “I try to

grade I have wanted to become University located in San Fran- you to go practice,” National Young Vir- a station that broadcasts online to view- match a story with the music, which

an artist, and I have never cisco, where she studied live Chan said. “I know tuosi Recital Compe- ers around the United States. The per- could be from my experiences or just a

changed my mind,” Tseng drawing. Tseng is also inter- it’s cliché, but practice is really all there tition and the National Young Musicians formance consisted of five pieces and story I made up.”

said. ested in photography, serving is to it.” Showcase Competition, which gave him allotted time for Chan to talk about the Chan is unsure whether or not he

When Tseng first began with as the Talisman yearbook staff’s Chan began playing the marimba the opportunity to perform in Carnegie marimba between each piece. wishes to pursue a career in music.

art at the age of 4, she was in- head photographer. Courtesy of KYLIE TSENG during his freshman year. Practicing was Hall. Other impressive achievements in-

Tseng “It was arguably one of the most re- However, Chan is determined to pro-

terested in acrylic painting. Stephen McCue, the art difficult at first, mainly because Chan clude an invitation to play as the open-

Senior Kylie Tseng’s first portfolio piece “Untitled” is a graphite pencil drawing of rib- markable performances I have seen out mote the popularity of the marimba and

“I liked it because it made teacher on campus, finds was not used to holding four mallets ing act at the prestigious Junior Bach

bons and thorns weaving throughout circular figures, representing good and evil. of a high school student in 14 years,” inspire others to play this underplayed

me feel like a professional artist even Tseng’s work “unique, creative, color- his hands. According to Chan, learning Festival after auditioning in front of Boitz said. “Desmond performed works instrument.

though I was very young,” ful and fabulous.” to control all the mallets felt awkward multiple judges. of undergraduate and graduate level “Once you get past the awkwardness

she said. As Tseng Sharing her art and designs with the very useful in the real world,” said world.” “It is evident to me that he is with a clear understanding of the com- of holding four mallets in your hand, it’s

grew older, she be- school, Tseng’s T-shirt design was vot- Tseng. Without art in her life, Tseng has a miraculous talent, but he also poser’s intentions.” all good,” Chan said. “Try playing [the

c a m e ed as the senior class’s T-shirt and one Currently, Tseng has seven draw- no idea where she would be. “It’s the understands the concept of deep However, these achievements come marimba]. It’s very fun, and not enough

fond of of her drawings is even on the cover of ings and one work in progress that she way I think,” Tseng said. “I see things, practice,” music department chair- as no surprise given Chan’s unique ear people play it.”

o t h e r this year’s student planner. will be exhibiting in her art portfolio and I think ‘Wow. I would love to draw man Michael Boitz said. “Miracu- for hearing music and virtuosic practic- After accomplishing so much at a

types of Tseng wants to major in either for colleges to view, hoping to attend that.’” The smallest things like an ex- lous performers like Yo-Yo Ma, ing style. young age, Chan’s talents have earned

U









art such graphic design or animation, depend- an art school. pression on a person’s face mean a lot,

XJ









Michael Jordan or anyone who’s Chan says he tries to practice a few him the accolades of his judges and

LE









as draw- ing on the college she attends because “I feel like art is the only thing I’ve and Tseng wishes she could stop time

YA









at that level of genius as they say, hours daily, starting with scales and peers.

SB









ing on she “really love colors and putting really been able to concentrate on for and capture the image. have learned how to practice and warm-ups until his hands feel comfort- “He’s good and he’s always practic-

HIC









p a p e r , them together to make something re- hours,” Tseng said. “I’m pretty restless, Tseng’s favorite quality about art is

AP









dedicate themselves with the com- able and then turning his attention to his ing every day for hours no matter what

GR









c a n v a s ally amazing.” but some days I can spend hours draw- the freedom. “In art, anything is pos- bination of talent, which gives pieces. time it is,” Wong said. “It is an honor

and tab- “I also feel like graphic design is ing because I feel like I’m in my own sible!” Tseng said. u some incredible results.” “Whenever I work on pieces, I take a to have someone as good as Desmond

In addition, Chan was invited look at the trouble spots and then piece playing with us.” u

18 IN-DEPTH September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

THE

saratogafalcon 19 September 16, 2011 IN-DEPTH

Teachers recount 9/11 stories What do you recall about 9/11?

togatalks

Increase in airport security: necessary or not?

abe reLateS poLiticaL viewpointS to the event I was too ignorant

BY AshwiniVelchamy before the 2004

Olympics,” Co-

falconpoll excessive right

now,” junior John-

said. “I’ve been to a lot of Muslim coun-

tries, and they see this and check me.”

to understand In order to travel the world by plane chrum said. “We Do you think airport security is ny Chang said. By passport profile she means that se-

BYDylanJew channel was filled with scenes issues, such as the government what was going in the post-9/11 world, one requires an didn’t have our “There’s been a curity profiles people who have been in

too tight?

& MinuPalaniappan of the incident.” deficit, can be traced back to on. Now that I’m excessive amount of patience. When IDs or passports heightened sense countries where known terrorists have

9/11 had a huge impact on 9/11,” Abe said. “It forced the older, I can see traveling to India during the summer checked when we of paranoia be- come from. Cochrum feels that with

“It’s one of those moments how life is today. It started the U.S. to spend more on national how terrible this of 2009, sophomore Priyanka Krishna- went to Africa. cause of terrorist non-Muslims behind the bombings in

you never forget,” World Histo- longest war in America’s his- defense and to send troops to war really is.” murthi recalls having to arrive at the San They just loaded us attacks.” Norway and others around the world,

ry and U.S. Government teacher tory, defined current foreign Afghanistan. Francisco International three hours early on a plane.” Junior Shreyas racial profiling ceases to exist.

Kirk Abe said. ”I don’t know policies and created numerous Even with all the trauma junior Kevin Chen, grade 1 on 9/11

just to proceed through the extensive se- Cochrum said Nagaraj, on the Based on her experiences travelling

what I was other inter- and pain caused by 9/11, Abe curity check, thoroughly exhausting her at times she had to other hand, be- thousands of miles before and after 9/11,

doing the national is- believes there were a few posi- I didn’t understand before her plane even took off. ask around just to lieves that the Cochrum said that flying itself has radi-

day be- Even during sues. tive aspects of it. Cars rolled what was going on Those who travelled before 2001 of- find out where the stricter security cally changed in the last ten years.

fore or the the event, I Citizens by streets with American flags on the news until ten associate the increased security and plane was headed does help; how- “Things that I used to fly with, I

day after, knew that I was all over the proudly displayed on the sides. I went to school extra hassle at airports with the terrorist because of the cha- ever, he disap- can’t fly with now,” Cochrum said. “I

but I will living through country “Our country was more united and everyone was attacks of 9/11, which devastated the na- os in the airport. 57% Yes, it’s a nuisance

proves of the way brought home a 4-foot-high fake giraffe

always re- something were affect- than ever,” Abe said. “There talking about it.” tion and ignited worldwide panic. She also recalled it racially profiles one year from Africa, and I can’t bring

member pivotal.” ed by the was a strong sense of patriotism Science teacher Lisa Cochrum, an fre- how before 9/11, if

43% No, it’s necessary

people. home drums from Africa now. I can’t

exactly teacher Kirk Abe lives lost. everywhere.” senior Anna Zhang, grade 2 on 9/11 quent traveler who has gone to places as her flight was de- “I remember bring home carvings I’ve gotten from

where I “It was very Now that 10 years have distant as Antarctica, saw several chang- layed, airport staff The Falcon polled 60 students. once I was going Thailand. A lot of the things I have at my

was and devastating passed since 9/11, the world es in airport processes since 9/11. would rush her to India, and [se- home now, people can’t get anymore.”

what I was doing that day.” to the families that lost relatives is beginning to move on. Abe, It was a horrible “I think the big thing I’ve noticed is through security to curity] checked She, however, feels that all these secu-

Abe was getting ready in the 9/11 attack,” Abe said. ”It however, feels that the United blow to our increased security,” Cochrum said. “My ensure she boarded her next flight. our baggage here, and then again at rity hassles are worth it.

to leave to teach his class, was a terribly sad day.” States should never forget about country, yet it bags are often [searched] now. I always “Now, there’s a one-hour window in Hong Kong,” Nagaraj said. “And later “I really support the increase in secu-

on Sept. 11, 2001, when he Soldiers were sent to parts the tragic incident. raised our sense of go through a check, whether a metal de- which you have to have your boarding as we were about to board the plane, [my rity,” Cochrum said, “because if it was

turned on the television. of Afghanistan to hunt down “Even during the event, community.” tector, a body scan or a hand check.” pass in hand before they even let you go mom] was checked again just because of my family member or my friend on that

“The first thing I saw was Osama Bin Laden as a response I knew I was living through As the years have progressed, secu- through the gate,” Cochrum said. her skin color.” flight on 9/11, I would do anything to

the first twin tower to 9/11. Additionally, suppress- something pivotal. Something rity has grown increasingly stringent. The staff and students hold mixed Cochrum holds a different view on save those lives. So even if you’re saving

being hit,” Abe ing terrorism stretched national that would change the fabric of soph Aditya Choudry, grade K on 9/11 “We didn’t even need our passports views on the post-9/11 security. the racial profiling. just one plane, one time every 20 years,

said. “Every resources thin. “Some federal the nation,” Abe said. u checked when we went through Greece “I think [airport security] is rather “I have a passport profile,” Cochrum it’s totally worth the hassle.” u









ten years later...

aS the 10th anniverSary of 9/11

eLapSeS, StudentS and teacherS

recount their memorieS of the

tragic day



principaL reLateS experience in ny 9/11 memories: From across the Hudson

BY DylanJew 5 miles from the World Trade Cen- Manhattan during the incident Manhattan. She was in her first year of couple of things: The day of the attack, to claim them.

& MinuPalaniappan ter, two blocks from Central Park were going north, away from the residency, training in order to become there was a lot of chaos at my school. Ten years have passed. I am grateful

in northern Manhattan. dangerous Ground Zero. “If you an OB-GYN physician. Kids were unable to come home from for many things.

“For most people, 9/11 was just Anderson ended up sending looked out the window,” Ander- When my mom walked out of the OR school at the usual time, their par- I am grateful that no one I knew per-

a televised event. But for me, and kids home with each other, mak- son said, “you would see an enor- that morning, she saw several nurses ents busy trying to determine whether sonally perished in the attack. I am grate-

the rest of the people in Manhat- ing sure each student had a place mous mob of people covering the crowding around a hospital window. friends and family who worked in New ful that that the thousands of families

9/11remembered tan at the time, it was a big part of to stay for the night. “We ended streets.” That’s when she saw smoke streaming York were safe. who lost loved ones have been, for the

my life.” up holding [a lot] of the students The city became polluted with out of the tops of several buildings. It And for about two weeks after the most part, able to rebound. I am grate-

Principal Jeff in our big theatre,” Anderson said. the debris and smoke produced was around 9 in the morning. At the attack, I had to stay mostly indoors; ful that I live in a country where people

Anderson shared a tragic story Anderson was “There was a big TV set up in- during the crash. time, my mom just there was too much were willing to reach out their hands to

about one of his wife’s coworkers an assistant prin- side so everyone could watch the Remarkably, neither Ander- Like father, like Sanj assumed that some smoke outside my those in the New York area who needed

who did not survive the building’s cipal at Hunter events as they were happening.” son nor any of his students were regular accident had My dad remem- house. aid or consolation after the attack.





I

collapse. “The day before 9/11, High School in The phones were ringing end- personally connected to anyone t was little before 9 on a Tuesday taken place. bers that he could I remember that And I am grateful that at the time

Manhattan dur- lessly, due to concerned parents involved in the incident. “I was morning. The sky was a clear, opal- By 10 a.m., just see people jumping off my dad and I at- of the attack, I was too young to truly

he showed up to a meeting in the ing 9/11. He was asking if their children are safe. surprised that we were all so for- escent blue, cloudless and beautiful. an hour later, she tended a candle- understand the magnitude of what had

World Trade Center late and was faced with the “It was pretty chaotic,” Anderson tunate,” Anderson said. I was in my kindergarten class in Village knew better.

the Twin Towers. They light vigil orga- happened.

subsequently chewed out by his problem of en- said, “but we kept the situation By sheer fortune, Anderson had School Elementary, Homdel, New Jer- My dad was at had to decide between nized by my school I didn’t have to go through the shock

boss,” Anderson said. “The next suring that the Anderson under control pretty well.” recently moved. Before, he had sey. My mom was in Newark, N.J., just home at that point. jumping or burning district to honor and grief that most Americans encoun-

1,500 kids in his Everyone was unsure whether been living much closer to Ground across the Hudson River, opposite from He recalls hear- to death. those lost. A couple tered that day. I didn’t know what a vig-

day, he obediently showed up school got home, a daunting task the first plane crash was intention- Zero. “My daughter would have ing on his car radio of people kept star- il was. I didn’t even know what a terror-

early for his meeting. Because of given that all modes of transpor- al or not. However, after the been going to school only two that a plane had ing at my dad. His ist was. All I knew was that on Tuesday,

this, he ended up getting trapped tation were completely backed up. second tower was blocks away from the World Trade crashed into one of the Twin Towers. skin is brown. And he has a beard. September 11, 2001, I was picked up

in the building and died when it “Our main goal was to keep the hit, it became cer- Center,” Anderson said. He rushed home and turned on the TV, Tens of thousands of people who from school a little late. u

kids safe and somehow get them tain that the event “I felt really lucky,” Anderson only to watch live as the second plane live in New Jersey work in Manhattan.

collapsed. His boss felt terrible: home,” Anderson said. was no accident. said. “Not only was my family hit the second tower. There were hundreds of people

she only survived because she Hunter is a school for the gifted Thousands of safe, but the students and faculty My dad remembers that he could see from where we lived who lost

was running late due to the con- and talented, meaning that many peo- at my high school had people jumping off the Towers. They their lives on 9/11.

gestion caused by 9/11.” of Anderson’s students lived far ple survived as had to decide between jumping or burn- There were parents of the kids

from the school. It is located about i n well.” u ing to death. in my kindergarten class that

Shortly afterwards, with hundreds didn’t come back.

of people still inside, both towers col- We’d hear about

lapsed. how cars were un-

I’m not going to pretend that I re- moved in parking lots

member a lot about September 11. days after the attacks,

I was only 5. But I do remember a their owners having

never come back.

Eventually, relatives

stepped forward









GRAPHICS BY ALEX JU

sports

THE

saratogafalcon

September 16, 2011 21

saratogafalcon.org/sports

Football



2011 SeaSon Preview

Coach: Tim Lugo, entering his fourth

season as head coach

2010 Record: 5-5 (2-4 in league)

2010 Recap: Despite defeating cross-

town rival Los Gatos to snap a 27-year

losing streak and playing well against

state champion Palo Alto, the Falcons

struggled in league, costing them a

chance to reach CCS.

Star Offensive player: Senior running

back Troy Doles (682 rushing yards,

8.74 yards per carry, eight rushing

touchdowns, 407 receiving yards, four

receiving touchdowns in 2010)

Star Defensive player: Senior line-

backer Brandon Oliveri O’Connor (77

tackles, 1 interception in 2010)

Key Departures: Quarterback Kevin

FALCON // DAVID ENG Smith, center Joe Walters, wide receiv-

er Chris Guengerich and running back

(Clockwise from left) Sophomore running back Davis Berryhill runs the ball upfield Gregory Johnson

Sept. 2 against Burlingame. Senior linebacker Brandon Oliveri O’Connor and injured Key Additions: Juniors quarterback

senior running back Troy Doles look on during the post-game meeting after the loss. Kyle Dozier, offensive lineman/line-

Senior running back Jerrick Lee charges through a mob of Burlingame defenders. backer Henry Wei, running back Dan-

iel Castronovo and sophomore running





Team struggles with injuries

back Davis Berryhill.

Keys to victory: Have the running

game open up holes for the passing

game and vice versa. The Falcons have

to be the best conditioned team on the

ers without a doubt. It hurts us on both of the ball,” O’Connor said. “They field due to lack of size, which causes

BYRoyBisht the Falcons to have less subs. With a

& NikilRamanathan sides of the ball. However, [it] in no wanted [to win] more than us and they

way shape or form puts us out of the made sure they got it.” strong league consisting of “the Big

The Falcon football team opened its game against Gilroy. We will beat Gil- Even though the Falcons held a re- Four” Palo Alto, Los Gatos, Milpitas, as

season under the lights at Benny Pierce roy [even] if we play our game without spectable Burlingame offense to just 10 well as Mountain View, Los Altos, and

Field on Sept. 2 with a 10-0 loss to Bur- them,” sophomore center Clark Roth- points, the Falcon offense struggled, Homestead, the Falcons need to be at

lingame. As painful as the loss was, enberg said. totaling 152 yards for the game and their best every game.

even more damaging were the injuries Beyond the injuries, the rest of the just 67 yards in the second half. Senior On reaching CCS: “We have to take it

sustained during the game. game did not go well for the Falcons quarterback Mitchell Casas passed for one game at a time. Our strength this

Senior running back Troy Doles besides their hopes. After a scoreless 90 yards and junior Bryson Yates led year is our defense, so we plan to es-

sprained his shoulder on the first of- first quarter, Burlingame took a three- the rushing attack with 31 rushing tablish a strong defensive game to get

fensive drive of the game, junior line- point lead with a second quarter field yards in nine rushing attempts. there,” senior offensive lineman Sean

backer Henry Wei sprained his MCL, a goal and did not look back, shutting Though the first game did not go Walsh said. “Also, we have to play the

major ligament in his knee, and senior out the Falcons for the entire game. as well as they would have hoped, the big teams like we are just playing an-

offensive guard Sean Walsh sprained Burlingame added another seven Falcons think of it as a learning experi- other league game.”

his neck. points in the third quarter on an 18- ence. Key number: 155.2. The team’s average

Doles was able to return for the yard touchdown run and extra point. “We learned that we really need to number of passing yards per game last

team’s game against Gilroy. However, In such a low scoring game, senior work harder during games and prac- season, which was good enough for

the same cannot be said for Wei and linebacker Brandon Oliveri O’Connor tice,” O’ Connor said. second best in the DeAnza Division,

Walsh, who both expect to miss at least believes that his team was simply out- To see the results of the football behind state champion Palo Alto.

two to three weeks. played by Burlingame. game against Gilroy, go to www.sara-

“We had injuries to three key play- “We were out-hustled on both sides togafalcon.org. u —Roy Bisht & Nikil Ramanathan







athlete oF the issue

Bolt’s DQ is excessive Seattle U recruits senior

broadcasters who complained that false BY RoyBisht Dennis put up these exceptional

starts created delays that threw off their numbers despite missing the first 10

schedules. When senior Will Dennis stepped games of the season due to CCS restric-

However, the IAAF failed to realize onto the baseball field at Seattle Univer- tions on transferring athletes. Dennis

that the world championships are not sity for a showcase in late August, he attended Woodside Priory in Portola

about the television broadcasters; they had no clue what to expect. A few days Valley before the beginning of his junior

are about the runners, and in this case, and hundreds of pitches later, Dennis year.

the world record holder. knew where his baseball career was “As much as I hated sitting out the

Paul Jung Had the pre-2010 rule still been in ef- headed next. first 10 games, it was worth it since com-

fect, Bolt would have been a clear con- In what he considered “a dream come ing to Saratoga gave me a much better

Slower than you

tender for first place, given the large true,” Dennis was recruited as a chance to win and to be noticed





O

n Sunday, Aug. 28, “the world’s 0.24 second margin between his record two-way player for the NCAA by scouts,” Dennis said. “Sara-

fastest man”, Usain Bolt, made and that of Yohan Blake, who received Division I school after an impres- toga is also great academically.”

the grave mistake of leaving first in the 100 meter without the pres- sive effort at the showcase. Baseball has always been a

his starting blocks early in the 100-me- ence of Bolt. Leaving early is an under- “I’ve always wanted to play priority for Dennis, who prac-

ter sprint at the track-and-field world standable reaction for runners who are Division I baseball, so this is ob- tices every day and has spent

championships in Daegu, South Korea. anxious. viously one of the greatest mo- much of his life playing for

This false start resulted in the disquali- The fastest man in the world, de- ments of my life,” Dennis said. year-around travel teams.

fication of Bolt from the race, in ac- fending his world record, could not “I’m so thankful for the oppor- “I would not be where I am

cordance with the IAAF (International compete because of a new rule that did tunity that Seattle University has Dennis now without all the time that I

Association of Athletics Foundation) not allow room for human mistakes. given me, and this experience have spent on baseball. I always

rules. The IAAF should make an effort to rec- has shown me that dreams really can knew how much practice it would take

The rule, which states that a runner tify the severity of this rule or return to come true.” to reach my goal and fortunately I was

who makes a single false start will be the previous rule. Dennis was also being scouted by able to keep playing whenever I had

immediately eliminated from the race, With the 2012 London Olympics ap- Fresno State and Long Beach State but free time,” Dennis said.

was not always so harsh. Runners were proaching next year, such rules as this ultimately decided that Seattle Univer- Many of Dennis’ teammates agree

previously allowed one false start be- should be reevaluated for fairness to- sity gave him the best chance to play. that his work habits affect not just him,

fore disqualification, but in 2010 the wards runners and fans. Dennis, a first baseman and pitcher, but also the rest of the team.

IAAF changed the rule, believing that Though Bolt was disappointed with starred last season as the team captain “Will totally deserves this opportu-

competitors were intentionally leaving his disqualification, he continued later on the Saratoga diamond, hitting .383 nity and now I feel like the whole team

the blocks early to tense up their oppo- in the week to win first place in both the with four home runs and establishing wants to work harder since we have

nents. 200 meter and the 4x100 relay on Sept. himself as one of the team’s top pitchers. an example to look at,” senior pitcher

This new rule was responsible for 2 and Sept. 4, respectively, for Jamaica. Because of his strong efforts last season, Thomas Ishikawa said. “We’ve never

the absence of the 100-meter world re- His spirit is admirable, and hopefully Dennis was awarded All-League Sec- really had a player like him these past

cord holder in the 100-meter race. The he will not repeat his error as long as the ond Team recognition in the competi- few years, so it’s great to have someone

rule was approved to satisfy television zero-tolerance rule stands. u tive De Anza League for his work. to look up to that’s not a coach.” u

22 SPORTS

ia l THE THE

SPORTS 23

c

September 16, 2011 saratogafalcon saratogafalcon September 16, 2011









p e

S S

r t Fall Preview 2011

p o

S Field hockey

Coach: Lifon Huynh, entering her first season as head

coach.

2010 record: 1-10-2 (league: 0-3-1)

2010 recap: Because of the injuries of key players, the Fal- girls’ tennis

sarah lum

FALCON // LILLIAN CHEN



girls’ VolleyBall

Joanna lee

TALISMAN // MARY EDMAN







cons were unable to fulfill their goals of a CCS title. Grad- Coach: Tom Uyehara, entering sixth season as head Coach: Brad Frederickson, entering third season as

uated seniors Collen Garland and Vanessa Block both suf- coach. head coach.

fered severe hand injuries. 2010 record: 24-0; 12-0 in league 2010 record: 11-22, 2-10 in the league

Star player: Senior midfielder Anna Ashe (pictured right) 2010 recap: The girls’ varsity team experienced a 2010 recap: Due to the loss of key seniors from the

Key departures: Block, forward; Ren Norris, midfielder tremendously successful season last year, going un- year before, the team’s performance last year failed to

Key additions: Sophomore midfielders, Jennie Werner, defeated, winning at CCS and moving onto NorCal obtain satisfactory results.

Ingrid Hong and Sarah Finley championships, where they placed first. This was the Star player: Outside hitter senior Talia Sisco, outside

Keys to victory: Executing more offensive defense plays best season in the team’s history and the girls were re- hitter junior Joanna Lee (pictured above)

and becoming a more offensive team overall. The team garded as one of the best teams in California, if not in Key departures: Libero/defense specialist Raven

must maintain a positive mindset to succeed this season. the nation. Sisco, setter/opposite hitter Hanna Nielson, middle

In lieu of a poor season last year, the team knows that they Star player: No. 1 Singles player Crystal Yen (record: hitter Megan Brading, outside hitter Sarah Blegan

have to keep their minds focused on winning, no matter 31-1 for entire season last year) and doubles player se- Key additions: Juniors middle/back row Corinne

how many injuries they face. nior Sarah Lum (pictured above) Moran, opposite hitter/back row Sierra Smith and

On staying positive: “We probably would have loved to Key departures: No. 2 singles player Srinidhi Ragha- outside hitter/back row Adriana Ivanko; opposite

freak out and complain about our losses, but we didn’t van; No. 3 singles player Catherine Nguyen hitter/back row sophomore Julia Lee

really have a choice because the season being so rough, Key additions: Freshmen Smita Sabada and Arathi Keys to victory: “I would say the we have a very

keeping a positive attitude was key,” said junior Megan Sabada young team,” Frederickson said. According to Fred-

Doles. Keys to success: The team’s focus this year will be erickson, volleyball is an exremely technical sport,

Magic number: 17. The percentage of members of the succeeding consistently at doubles. Because they lost and mastering the technique takes time. The team is

team new to varsity. important singles players last year, the players will also on t he shorter side in terms of height; in order to

need consistent doubles wins to make up for singles, make up for this, they will need better skill than the

—Ingrid Hong particularly against tougher schools. With dedicated other teams.

players on the team for both singles and doubles, ex- Putting it all together: “I think right now we need

pectations are high after an undefeated season from to focus on working together as a team. Everyone

the previous year. has different skills, and if we can put them together, I

On the team: “We have great players that are united think we’ll be set,” junior Corinne Moran said.

together. We had a strong team overall last year, so Magic number: 10. With so many new additions, it’s

samika kumar hopefully we can have those results again with a solid important for all 10 members to work as a team.

FALCON // JORDAN WAITE

season this year,” coach Tom Uyehara said.

Magic number: 18. Out of around 20 matches, the —Edward Dong and Matt Foley

girls’ golF anna ashe coach expects 18 wins.

FALCON // INGRID HONG

Coach: Dave Gragnola, entering first season as head

— Karen Sung

coach

2010 record: 0-14

2010 recap: In a season full of close matches, the Fal-

cons did not find much success. Out of 14 matches, the girls’ cross country

track season

team won zero but fought well against teams such as Coach: Danny Moon, entering his fourth season as Keys to victory: The girls’ cross country team has had

rival Los Gatos and league champions Evergreen Val- coach. some discipline problems in previous years regarding

ley. Even though the team was not successful overall, 2010 record: Runners senior Emily Williams and ju- runners shirking full workouts. While team manage-

it sent one player to CCS. nior Maya Nag (each qualified for the state race last ment has invoked a more rigorous training schedule,

Star player: Junior Samika Kumar, who almost qual- year) cross country has not lost its fun in the midst of all this

ifed for CCS last year, pictured above. 2010 recap: Although only Williams and Nag quali- hard work.

Key departures: Uttara Sivaram, who qualified for fied for CCS last year, another key runner, junior On state: “We really have good chance of going to

CCS last year Courtney Schlossareck, was injured. With this return- the state championships this year as a team. With the

Key addition: Freshman Vivian Roan eric Wang ing talent, the team hopes to reach state this year as runners we have and the amount of training and dedi-

Keys to success: With a smaller team, the coaches TALISMAN // JAYA NARASIMHAN team. cation that we have been putting in to training, there

have a chance to work with each player individually. elyse BerlinBerg Star player: Schlossareck, Williams, Nag and seniors is no reason why we shouldn’t be able to make it,”

The team will focus on reducing the amount of shots it Boys’ Water polo FALCON // JORDAN WAITE

Kristine Johnson and Louise Guy (pictured to the left) Schlossareck said.

takes to improve its scores. By addressing one type of girls’ Water polo Key departures: Jennifer Varnier Magic number: 2. The number of varsity spots still

shot each practice, the team is perfecting its shots and Coach: Courtney Crase, entering first season as head

Key additions: Schlossareck, who has fully recovered open to be filled.

developing knowledge of the sport. With Saratoga coach for the boys’ team but has previously coached the Coach: Heather Bridges, entering her first season as from the knee surgery that sidelined her for the end of

Country Club as their home course, the Falcons have girls’ team. head coach. last year’s cross country season and the entire —Aanchal Mohan

the advantage this year of becoming familiar with the 2010 record: 11-4 (Overall record), 9-3 (League Record) 2010 record: 1-9-0

course, something they can use to their benefit in their 2010 recap: After battling their way up to the league 2010 recap: Due to a small team size and tough compe- louise guy

home matches. The team had cuts this year, so the matches, the Falcons were unable to beat Wilcox in a key tition in the El Camino league, the Falcons had a tough TALISMAN // MARY EDMAN

general skill level of the average player on the team match that ended up spoiling their chances at leagues. The 2010 season.

has increased from last year, where everyone made team finished third in their league last year. Star players: Senior goalie Alison Knysh, junior utility Boys’ cross country

the team, slightly bringing down the average skill Star players: Sophomore Steven Cho, utility; senior Eric players Seralyn Fields and Elyse Berlinberg (pictured

level of each player. Wang , wing, pictured above Coach: Dan Ambrico, entering second season as head Keys to success: The key, junior David Zarrin said,

above), and sophomore hole defender Nikki de Roos coach is consistently training but avoiding injury, which

On the importance of focus: “Most people believe Key departures: Goalie Gavin Peake and driver Tim Rol- Key departures: Hole defender Alison Buchanan, hole

that golf is an old-person sport. But in reality, the sport linson 2010 record: Placed 5th at CCS, captain Kyle Fukui would give everyone the best season possible. They

set Joyee Woodrow, hole defender Mackenzie Crase qualified for state also have a freshman superstar, Steven Sum, who may

requires a lot of diligence, hard work and skill. Match- Key additions: Junior driver Jim Speedy and sophomore Key addition: Junior hole set Claire Schwartz

es tend to be at least three hours long, requiring a lot of driver Cameron Borch 2010 recap: “Last year we did not have many wins, become the fastest freshman miler in the country this

Key to success: In order to perform better than last to be honest, but we did send Kyle Fukui to state year, and is currently the fastest runner on the team.

focus .One momentary lapse of concentration can cost Keys to victory: Performing quick passes to create more year, the Falcons are working improving their offense,

a player the match,” sophomore Nikki Thareja said. offensive opportunities will key Falcon victories this sea- which was cool. Our varsity was weakened because On cuts: “We decided to transition to a cut sport to

which was somewhat lacking last year. The larger team Sam Guy broke his ankle and I strained my Achilles ensure the runners who are committed to cross coun-

“Although our practices are spent working hard in the son. size this year also means more opportunities to switch

hot sun, we have really become a family, and every On losing Peake and Rollinson: “Gavin was a great so we were kind of crippled last year,” junior David try have quality practices and to keep the size of the

out tired players. Being able to switch out more players Zarrin said. team manageable,” coach Dan Ambrico said.

practice has a little bit of laughter, putting challenges, goalie so it will be hard to fill his place in the cage. and will help the team play complete games.

and deer. In the end, golf a is really difficult sport to Tim was a quick swimmer with lots of experience,”junior Star players: Freshman Steven Sum, sophomores Magic number: 60. The team went over the limit of

On the upcoming season: “We moved down a league, Sam and Will Guy (pictured to the left), juniors Da- 60 runners this year, and Ambrico was forced to make

master, but it is worth every single stroke.” driver Tyler Tanaka said. so we’re expecting a lot more wins [than last year],” ju-

Magic number: 34. The par for the Saratoga home Magic number: 21. The number of varsity players on a vid Zarrin and Kabir Chandrasekher and seniors Eren cuts to bring the number back down to 60. Last year,

nior Seralyn Fields said. Veziroglu and Peter An the final roster was 53 runners.

course. The Falcons are continuing to improve their team typically made up of 16 players, a testament to water Magic number: 7. The number of new teams the Fal-

scores on their home course. polo’s increasing popularity among students. Key departures: Kyle Fukui, Garrick Chan

cons will play this season. Key additions: Freshman Steven Sum, who is the —Samuel Liu

—Derek Sun —Brandon Judoprasetijo and Jackie Gu fastest member on the team

—Paul Jung Will guy

TALISMAN // MARY EDMAN

24 BACKPAGE September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon

September 16, 2011

This section is a pullout section, separate it from the newspaper for easier reading.







polaroids

specialtysection









THE

tHE SCHOOL tRANSFORMS ItSELF FOR tHE NEW SCHOOL YEAR









FALCON // ALEX JU

LIE TSENG

TALISM

AN // KY

LIE TSE

NG FALCON //

DAVID SPARKMAN

FALCON

// DAVID

SPARKM

WItH NEW tEACHERS, NEW StUDENtS AND A NEW LOOK

LISMAN // KY Seniors hion AN

Benefit Fas Biology te

TA

tries Adler plaMishi Maniar ls from thearade down the Cochrum acher Lisa

Alana Hess Mode





Natural colors give school fresh look

Freshman a human knot concent y the trumpe and David iew p

Show Prev strutting their stuff 2.

dur- men instr gives her fresh

t

band ca ration during s with intense

to unravel Link Leader quad steps pte mber hands-o uctions for her -

with junior during the

mp ove

r the su ectionals at n Friday, Se topograpn activity to mak

mmer. ing lunch o

Henry Shen rientation on

O

hy maps

.

e

Freshman ust 19.

Frida y, Aug the bricks and the trees and the shrub- crazy about the old color scheme.” earth friendly looking and easy on the

BY VivianLeTran

bery,” McCue said. “I think it would However, many students have no- eyes, said Chiou.

A new school year is always ac- look even better to have some walls ticed that some of the hallways re- “I feel like the half-painted school is

companied by a variety of changes. painted a darker version of the current mained white and unpainted. Funds kind of weird, but the paint job is still a

For senior Kellie Chiou, this year was brown to give more for this project came good idea. Before, the walls were white

no different. Yet, as Chiou rushed to interest and dimen- from the Saratoga and covered with dirt and dust,” Chiou

her classes on the first day, there was sion to the school, but Foundation, an orga- said. “These colors make [the school]

crosswordpuzzle: search the newspaper for answers for prize! something outside the usual change of

classes and teachers that she couldn’t

it is probably too ex-

pensive.”

These colors make nization that collects

[the school] look more donations from par-

look more natural, and it complements

the green trees. Unlike the white and

put her finger on. It wasn’t until later The administra- natural. It’s more earth ents, as well as the blue, which made our school look like

Across that she noticed that the campus had tion, along with sev- friendly looking and school’s saved main- a prison.”

5. Claire Couch’s clothing line received a makeover. eral parent volun- tenance money, to- The cursive word “Falcons” is also

6. An artist who also serves at the head photographer of As part of a beautification process, teers, decided on the easy on the eyes. taling about $50,000. missing from the front of the school

Talisman (yearbook) which started the day after graduation, earth color scheme to Senior Kellie Chiou Unfortunately, this near the gym. The words were erased

7. Who is the Little Theater named after? the school was repainted a light brown give the school a more amount of money because the school ordered new letter-

9. Desmond Chan performed here as one of the 30 grand and gray. natural complexion was only enough to ing, which was originally scheduled

Fill out this winners of the National Young Musicians Showcase Potential color schemes were select- and a more modern look as compared repaint half of the school, Mount said. to be installed before the start of the

crossword and Competition ed last June when the school painted to the previous scheme, which was “We were hoping that we could fin- school year. The 24 inch, black, alu-

be the first to 10. The fastest cross-country runner the walls outside the 200 wing to test based on school colors. ish sometime this year, but we don’t minum “Saratoga High School” sign

turn it in to 11. Recruited to Seattle University for Division I base- different combinations. These colors “The agreement among folks was have any exact dates.” should arrive by the end of September

editor-in-chief ball make the school warmer, softer and that the old paint job was a bit tired According to several students inter- to finish this year’s makeover.

David Eng for Down friendlier, according to art teacher Ste- and outdated,” assistant principal Kev- viewed, the new paint job has been re- “I’m excited to see the school when

a $5 prize. 1. New drama teacher phen McCue. in Mount said. “[The school] needed ceived relatively well. The neutral col- it’s completely finished,” Chiou said.

2. Brad Frederickson is the coach of what girl’s sports “It evens out the transition between painting and not many people were too or scheme makes the school look more “I’m sure it’ll look amazing.” u

team?

3. Recently became a teacher after being a maintenance

worker for a decade

4. Designs her own jewelry

7. Art Fisher moved to here from Traveled teachers New finals schedule

descend upon SHS creates mixed feelings

8. New English teacher that taught in Indonesia









Clearly seen but often unheard topten BYAnushreeDugar December 2011

ronment at the school helps foster stu- SUN M T W TH F S

BY EdwardDong & DerekSun 1 2 3

THINGS To looK forwArd & GraceMa dent learning.

“This is a school that truly invests The administration has implement- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

argument in my defense: No one listens part of your school day: the announce- IN HomEComING Amy Keys stands enveloped by the in and shows great concern for its stu- ed a new finals schedule this year in

to the announcements. Ever. ments. humid heat of Indonesia, where street dents. I am here because I want to con- which finals week will start on Dec. 19, 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

An alchohol-free dance. let’s tinue the tradition of excellence

I hear your protests. (“My class is They not only deliver important markets line the roads and com- before winter break, instead of in Janu- 22

not get sadies taken away. 18 19 20 21 23 24

too loud! My teacher begins the lesson news pertaining to the school, but they mon folk wash their clothes in that embodies the school,” Tol- ary. Winter break will now start on Dec. Finals Week Semester Start of

Ends Holiday

as soon as the bell rings! They aren’t also provide something that is fast rivers. It is 1990, and when class- ley said. 23, so students will not be burdened by 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

The teachers’ dance. Hopefully

relevant enough to me!”) disappearing in modern life, the shared es resume later in the afternoon, In 2000, Tolley journeyed to having to study for finals over the holi- Holiday Break Until Jan. 8

we won’t get schooled.

Let’s face it: Your arguments are experience. Few are the instances one she will teach English to Java- China where she taught Eng- days.

invalid, not only because this school is can share time with 1,400 other people. The homecoming game. we’ll nese students intent on learning lish at a boarding school for six This shift in the schedule resulted in a break. Although the deadline for turn-

Mac Hyde run like Soviet Russia, but also because Beyond that, the announcements actually win this one! the language in order to qualify months. Some of her students shorter summer because school started ing in grades has been extended, teach-

The Superior Macintosh my average volume is plenty loud to bind the school together by providing for higher-level education. were already in their senior year; eight days earlier this year. To compen- ers who like to finish them as soon as

be heard over your teachers, fellow individuals and organizations with The homecoming rally. oh Ten years later, on the Asian others were in kindergarten. sate, however, school will end on June possible will have to work harder dur-





I

am not used to going unheard. students and, possibly, even an invad- recognition and giving the school a wait... there isn’t one. mainland, Sariah Tolley gazes Keys “One of my big objectives 7, nine days earlier than last year. ing the holiday.

In fact, many people (my mother ing army. common agenda. Student leaders com- over a farming village. A wom- while I was there was to involve The administration’s reasoning, the Semester classes are also trouble-

Freshmen girls’ outfits. They’re an carrying her child on her back plows the kids in activities and games,” Tolley same for many other schools, was that it

included) find it impossible to I really don’t care, despite the hours plain about their lackluster attendance some for teachers since first semester is

not scandalous at all. a field in a rural landscape dotted with said. “I remember one of their favorite reduces the stress of studying for finals

tune me out at times. I’ll confess—I’ve that the ASB and countless others put at one event or another one. ASB invests shorter than second semester and they

probably been the loudest, most obnox- into making the morning announce- countless hours into boosting public- rumpelstiltskin. Is that some clay huts. Tolley, a college student teach- ones was to dart up to the board, and over break. have to teach the same material.

ious person to ever inhabit this cam- ments as painless, entertaining and con- ity for school events, but the burden of type of skin disease? ing English in Kunming, capital of Chi- they would have to write or identify a “It would be really nice for students This shift in schedule was not made

pus (save for James Knight, perhaps). cise as possible. That’s like saying that responsibility ultimately rests with you, na’s Yunnan province, has just finished word. They loved it.” and teachers to be done in December in isolation, however. Many schools

However, for some strange reason, you drive an SUV powered by orphan the listener. Junior class decorations. Third a long day at work. Starting in 2008, Tolley also taught with a real break,” principal Jeff An- have made this switch in part because

every Tuesday and Thursday, I feel tears and puppies … it hurts deep. In the end, the entire school loses out time’s the charm. Time and chance would bring these for three years at the Downtown College derson said. “Both students and teach- teachers find it more useful to have an

completely silent. Why do you insist on ignoring me by ignoring the announcements. My two traveled teachers together Prep, a high school for impover- ers could start fresh after the December extra week of instruction before STAR

You see, on these days, I’m slated to when I show you nothing but love? This plight with the announcements in many 2014 finally finding out who on Aug. 22, their first day of ished, mostly Latino students break. This is something we can control and AP testing.

belt the morning announcements, sup- concept is completely foreign to me. ways mirrors my plight with writing gave them that horrible theme teaching at Saratoga High. After trying to get into college. There, that can help with students’ stress.” Despite the reasons for having finals

posedly bringing enlightenment and While I understand being ignored opinionated newspaper columns. While last year... years spent teaching students she learned about dealing with Assistant principal Brian Safine before winter break, many students are

in person, perhaps even completely from across the globe, Keys and students who struggled “emo- agrees with Anderson. He believes that still not persuaded. Some still anticipate

joy to all who hear me. I might lift my spirits in the hopes

Sophomore class decorations... Tolley both felt eager to apply the tionally, academically or social- students should not have to work over a more stressful and difficult end of first

But instead, you “Hyde” in pure disregarded, to be ignored in an official that students will read my meaningful

parents where you at? knowledge gained from their ex- ly,” she said. break. “Personally, [I think] students semester this year.

terror at the mere sound of my voice. I capacity? That does not compute. words with the utmost perspicacity, I

periences to the challenges that Like Tolley, Keys began could decompress and re-energize over “[Having finals before break] simply

needn’t have you barge into my peace- I can understand students who tune feel somewhat hurt when I find other-

Senior quad day, we’ve been lay ahead. her career as a teacher out- the break,” Safine said. increases the stress during the period

ful second period, you surely feel. My out to study for an upcoming test, to wise. When you skip over my article or Tolley

waiting four years for a good “I’m struck by how friendly side of the United States. She Many teachers do not yet have an prior to finals because of the [lack] of

one blissful moment where I am guar- contemplate how to best Saran-wrap tune out of ASB announcements, I feel first picked up teaching in In-

one. and welcoming both students opinion regarding this shift in schedule, time to study,” junior Johnny Chang

anteed, by the government no less, 95 a friend’s car or to strategize how to that my efforts have been effectively and staff are, how cooperative and help- donesia in 1990, where she stayed but they are pleased to know that stu- said.

minutes of Mac free, bona fide, purely best ask that certain someone (nudge, squandered. ful to each other and to new teachers!” for two years. At the time, she did

dylan Jew dents will not have any concerns over Senior Hansen Qian concurs with

educational time, you may contend. nudge) out, but otherwise your atten- So please, listen to the announce- Keys said. “The students are thoughtful not suspect how much she would winter break.

Brandon Judoprasetijo Chang’s concern over added stress

While I am good for all the thera- tion should be completely devoted to ments every morning. They just might and creative and mature.” Other teachers are dissatisfied about

peutic bills sent my way, I have one the most informational and important make your day. u Tolley agrees that the nurturing envi- having grades due soon after winter

S2 SPECIALTY

THE

saratogafalcon SPECIALTY S3

September 16, 2011









FROSH MOSH

The Falcon interviewS the neweSt memberS of the Student

New students arrive from around the world

BY IngridHong



Senior Melodie Zhang is accustomed

to the crowded, busy city life of her

hometown of Hong Kong, a far cry from

weather and making friends was diffi-

cult at first. The curriculum was also dif-

ferent; it’s a lot easier than in Finland,”

freshman Olli Lilja said.

Freshman Boyu Pang, who moved to

Foreign Students

Q: How is living in the

U.S. different from

Mexico?

Q: How is living in the

U.S. different from

Thailand?



Fisher: I used to live



body and inveStigateS what makeS thiS freShman claSS unique her new home in quaint, cozy Saratoga.

“At first, moving from Hong Kong to

Saratoga from Canada about a month

ago, was also anxious about attending Castillo: It is very com-

fortable and calm here.

in California before I

moved to Thailand, but

I do not see much dif-

the U.S. was scary because I didn’t know school in the U.S.

Back in Mexico my ference between Cali-

what to expect,” Zhang said. "It's a dif- “The transition was a major one,” classroom had 30 peo- fornia and Thailand. It

ferent culture altogether and I was ner- Pang said. “I didn’t know anything

pace

ple and I knew them was a pretty easy ad-



ool freshmanfocus

Runner meets high sch

vous [about coming to the U.S.].” about the [U.S.] education system, or all. Also we had uni- justment. The only ma-

Zhang is one of many international any of the schools really, but I also had forms in Mexico and jor difference between

Q: What are your impressions of transfer students who now face the chal- to deal with finding new friends.” many rules that you the two countries is the

high school so far? don’t have here.

lenge of adjusting to life in a new country The school has attempted to ease the weather.

Forrest Gump.” A: It’s big, fun and all around a mill

country can as well as acclimating to a new school. transition for new students by hosting

BY EdwardDong Ye admits that cross ion times better than middle scho

ol. CarlosdelCastillo ArtFisher

sometimes be lon g and grueling, but This year, the school has added students the annual new student barbecue, held FALCON // MINU PALANIAPPAN

oming stu- running is in-

Like many other inc from Peru, Mexico, Japan, China, South

NatalieMiller on Aug. 19, which gave students new

the she also believes that A: It is a really big school, yet it

dents, fresh man Yvonne Ye hit vigorating. has a very nice community feeling. Korea, New Zealand and several other to the district an opportunity to interact Since then, he said he has easily settled has to offer.

expect so many students to be so I

ground running. “While running, your

feet hurt and welcoming and I didn’t expect ther didn’t nations. with both old and new students. into the rhythm of high school life. "I saw a lot of forests and little shops

in a kind of y as much as many clubs and activities to be able e to be so

“Cross country is fun you can’t breathe nearl afterwards, to participate in. While stepping onto a new campus “I also found the new student barbe- “I think that the transition went very downtown," Zhang said. "It was great,

d. “Long runs

unexpected way,” Ye sai er the edge t

you would like to. Bu ling of sat- SupriyaKhandekar is always daunting, common hardships cue and the orientation day very helpful, smoothly, especially considering the because you can't see that in the city."

u ov

don’t actually drive yo you get tha t wonderful fee such as navigating the flow of traffic in as I met new people and had many of added details of moving and adjusting But the thing she’s looking forward to

trick is to find u want to do it A: I thought there would be mor

into exhaustion. The isfaction that makes yo e class-segregation—the stereoty

pical seniors

the hallways and finding an unoccupied my questions answered,” Pang said. to a new environment,” Pang said. the most is the different environment.

speedometer, picking on freshmen and the like.

that good spot on your again.” u But that doesn’t really happen here place to sit at lunch are made even more Pang also added that being a member Despite being unsure at first, Zhang “I love how the sky is so blue and that

where you feel lik e you can run like tends to throw stereotypes out the

window.

; Saratoga difficult for foreign students, whose first of the marching band helped him adjust has also managed to become accus- it’s not noisy or polluted,” Zhang said.

YvonneYe language is often not English. because he got to know some of the staff tomed to the lifestyle in the U.S. and is “I’m really looking forward to living and

“I didn’t know how to dress for the and students before school even began. excited to experience all that California going to school here.” u

Soccer star shoots for national team Malik seeks success in drama

BY JayMulye

improve his technique and fitness. He

hopes to be on the U.S. national team

BY AasimNaqvi something stupid or dumb, but it Dedicated maintenance Spanish teacher transitions

worker starts teaching job from middle to high school

Freshman Samuel Junqua has been won’t matter because it can be mold-

one day. Freshman Neesha Malik hopes to ed into something that other people

playing competitive soccer since he

“For now I want to concentrate on attain a reputation similar to that of will appreciate,” Malik said.

was 10. His outstanding talent led him the Earthquakes and improve with the

directly onto the U-14 San Jose Earth- 2011 Saratoga High graduate Jay Lee, Despite not having much experi-

U-16 academy.” Junqua said. “In order who was renowned for his unforget- ence, Malik added that she loves dra- BY NikilRamanathan a connection with some of the students

quakes Pre-Academy team last spring. to make it to the national team, I will here, said Rodriguex.

table performances. ma because she feels that her peers BYJayMulye cations. Prior to receiving his credential

Junqua attends three vigorous two- need to work to my full potential for from National University in February The transition from middle school Narva will be teaching two Spanish

hour training sessions per week to “I like drama because I can do are always there for her. u & ParulSingh

every training.” u of 2009, he had held an array of substi- to high school is regularly made by in- 2 classes and two Spanish 1 classes this

From a bar tender in high volume tute teaching positions. However, due coming freshmen, but this year, Spanish year. He hopes to emphasize culture and





freshmanfavorites

Swimmer dives right rock n’ roll club to a maintenance work- to the current fiscal crisis he was un- teacher Andrew Narva has made the loves to teach students about holidays.





MichaelLee

into school er, new teacher Mike McQuade has able to find a permanent teaching job

worked in many different professions anywhere. But when former physics

switch as well. Narva also said that the activities he

Narva taught at Redwood last year does in the class may seem somewhat

and the year before that he taught at elementary but are necessary to help

BY in many different places but now he has teacher Bill Drennan retired, a position

Q: What are your favorite and least favorite parts of high school? when he was seven, finally settled as a teacher at Saratoga opened up and McQuade jumped at the South Valley Middle School. students learn first and second

and has swam High School. opportunity. This is Narva’s third year of full- level high school Spanish.

help you, and Monday through Frida competitively ever sin

A: One of my favorite parts is how the counselors really want to Nikhil Chakravarthy ge

y, freshman ce.

of trying out for the Jun He dreams During more than a decade as an “[McQuade] applied and did a great time teaching. Narva’s believes that confi-

The

they don’t just turn down every request because it makes their job easier. his classes and then he

ts up, goes to National team.

ior Olympic employee of the Los Gatos Sara- job, he was clearly the best out Through just his first week of dence and motivation are essen-

weekend homework is a pain, though . I never got this much homework on the ads

school’s pool at 4:30 p.m over to the He appreciates Saratog

a High for

toga Union High School district, of the applicants,” Nicholson teaching at the high school level tial to the students’ learning.

weekend in middle school. NeeshaMalik . Two hours the wide selection of McQuade has worked in the said. this year, Narva had already no- “Many people are intimidat-

and 6,000 yards later, activities and

he gets out of increased freedom com maintenance department, been Nicholson mentored Mc- ticed some differences between ed by learning a new language,”

you get two the water and goes ho

A: I don’t like how classes are an hour and a half long but I like that do it all again the next

me, ready to pa

dle school. In addition red to mid- a student teacher with Kelly Quade and encouraged him to the high school and middle Narva said. “If a student is mo-

ork. The food is also way better here. to

days for homew NicolasRios Chakravarthy learne

day. school’s swim team, he joining the Nicholson and has now finally pursue his teaching credential school students. tivated to learn a new language,

wi Narva

when he was two. He

d to swim doing speech and deba ll consider become a biology as well as an back in 2008. “So far [the high school kids] they will. If a student feels con-

people in high joined a club te and water anatomy and physiology teach- “[McQuade] had graduated are much bigger, and they’re fident enough to practice speak-

A: I’m really excited to meet new people; there are a lot more polo. u

mature in the sense that I don’t have to ing this new language in class, they will

school than in middle school. Also, the dances seem so much more fun. I’m 100 er. with his degree, but he never

every way. “When I decided to become a McQuade pursued his teaching credential. explain what I expect,” Narva said. quickly feel confident speaking this lan-

percent positive that they are better than the ones at Redwood in

AudriePott

freshmanfunfacts teacher, I was hoping to get a job He reached a point in his life

in a good school district, and now I’ve where he decided he wanted to teach so

Narva started his career as an Eng- guage out of class.”

lish as a second language teacher, but Narva says that it has been nice see-



Indian culture inspires art Q: Do you have any unique hobbies? found the greatest school,” McQuade I offered to be his master teacher,” Nich- when he was offered the opportunity ing familiar faces from Redwood and

said. olson said. to instruct Spanish elective classes he that he feels excited to be a part of the

so I started

A: I have so much music that I ran out of space to put it on my iPod, He envisioned himself as a biology Nicholson speaks glowingly of Mc- “jumped at the offer.” language department.

BY AnushreeDugar burning cassette tapes. I like listening to almost every type of music besides teacher and, with determination, he Quade’s drive and passion for teaching. According to language department Narva attended Archbishop Mitty

Ravi’s drawings were voted mainstream. RachelMenard made that dream a reality. She fondly remembers her days men- head Arnaldo Rodriguex, the school High School and received his teaching

displayed on the “wall of to be “I love biology, anatomy and physi- toring McQuade. needed another Spanish teacher because credential from UC Santa Cruz.

There are some things in fame” in

are easy to learn in a day and

life that her Indian art cla

ss, and she has won Q: If you had a million dollars, what would you do with it? ology although biology was my major “He is really great to work with and the Spanish program was expected to For hobbies Narva said that he re-

remem- many awards fro in college,” McQuade said. “My goal he really absorbs information, he is also grow by about 50 students this year. Of ally likes to do outdoor activities like

ber for life. Drawing is not m the Reflections t me to

these things. Freshman Pre

one of program. A: I would travel all over the world. When I was little, my mom brough for now is to have a 10- to 15-year career really open to learning from both the the five applicants, Narva was chosen in skateboarding and surfing. However,

has been taking sketching

ethi Ravi To Ravi, art is more than

a fun all these places, but now I can’t remember any of it, so I want to revisit them. as a teacher.” students and other teachers,” said Nich- part because he taught a Spanish class he joked that he’s “grown too old” for

classes pastime. “I really AudriePott McQuade has no shortage of qualifi- olson. u at Redwood last year and therefore has the both of them. u

over the summer in India became interested

since she in art because

was 5, and has slowly bee

n able to express myself

it was a way I could Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

perfect the art. without being grad-

ed,” Ravi said. u

A: I would go to Neverland because I could stay young forever there.

NatalieMiller







Menard twirls into high school Khandekar finds passion in singin Continued from pg. S1 taken in the spring. makes December break fun because Chang pointed out. Chang was fond of



sister, [Sarah], is in guard and it

seems

AnushreeDugar

g because college applications are due at

“It won’t be hard to get used to the

new schedule because we have to cram

there is no stress,” sophomore Adrian

Fong said.

starting second semester a few weeks af-

ter the end of winter break.

VivianLeTran BY around the same time as finals, which for spring finals as well,” said sopho- Junior Shayda Roohparvar also ap- Although currently there are mixed

always has a great time. Also, I

BY

like she great to see how our unique voic

to get es could negatively impact the quality of more Usha Raman. preciates the change because she is not opinions about the new finals schedule,

h- thought it would be a better way could be made into a soulful cho

A couple of weeks before most fres P.E. credit, sinc e I didn’t want to run

Freshman Supriya Khandekar has

At Redwood Middle School, she

ir.” the seniors’ applications. For this reason, Both students and parents admit, worried about forgetting any material students said they will eventually be-

n

men even set foot on campus, freshma found her passion: singing. Wh

ile was involved with the Hon the Palo Alto Unified School District de- however, that winter break should not over break. come accustomed to it.

twirling, tossing miles.” she attended middle school in or Cho- cided to keep finals after winter break. be consumed by studying for finals, but The abrupt start of second semester “If you’re not there when the change

Rachel Menard was Although the taller flags, rifles toss

- Eu- rus, and she continues to

ing

and meticulously learning drills dur ing and dril l exercises are all new to her,

rope for two years, Khandekar

par- here at Saratoga High.

take choir Other students, however, are now instead be treated as a holiday. after a long sedentary set of two weeks occurs, you don’t have any incentive to

band camp for Saratoga High’s Color rd is ticipated in the AMIS Internationa comparing first semester finals to those “Having finals before break really is also unappealing to some students as protest,” Qian said. u

Menard is relieved that Color Gua Honor Chorus.

l Khandekar is also interested in

Guard.

e I not as intense as ban d camp during the singing in school musicals and plan

“I joined guard at Saratoga sinc actual school year. She hopes to con

tin- “It was an amazing experience s

did it for three years at Redwood,” Me- years of high since I was singing with people from to participate in the drama produc-

nce ue Color Guard all four tions throughout her high scho

nard said, reflecting on her experie school. u

all over the world,” she said. “It

was years. u ol

r

in Color Guard at Redwood. “My olde









ALEX JU

S4 SPECIALTY September 16, 2011

THE

saratogafalcon



Slone psyched for SHS

BY VivienLu School District. He then transferred to

the Cambrian School District where he

New school psychologist Michael held administrative jobs and duties, in-

Slone joined the SHS team at the start cluding the director of student services

of this school year after former school and special education, before becoming

psychologist Mark Atkinson accepted the principal of Cambrian Community

a position as the director of special ed- School.

ucation at the district office. Slone first became interested in psy-

Slone was encouraged by Atkinson chology during his time at Lewis and

to apply for the po- Clark College in

FALCON // SASAN SAADAT sition and is excited psychologist Portland.

Drama and English teacher Karin Babbitt talks to students in the Little Theater on Sept. 8. to come to Saratoga Michael Slone “I can think

High. back to students





Babbitt brightens up

“All of the posi- Replaced Mark At- with special needs,

tive information he kinson; studied at friends and class-

gave me about the mates who didn’t

students, the staff

Lewis and Clark Col- get the help they

lege in Portland.



drama department

and the adminis- needed,” Slone

tration was one of said. “Remember-

the reasons that convinced me to come ing these experiences has helped shape

here.” and influence what I wanted to do.”

So far, Atkinson’s statements have Slone enjoys working in a school en-

BY MichaelLee in their lives. She will use her extensive held true, and Slone has been greatly vironment because of the emphasis on

experience in comedy to complement impressed by the student body. He also teamwork.

She has performed on VH-1, MTV and her teaching. admires how much students at Sara- “I didn’t like the idea of working by

Comedy Central. She worked as a stand- “I wanted to be that person to teenag- toga value their education compared myself in an office or private clinic,”

up comedian for 15 years and continues ers who didn’t discourage them,” Bab- to those he has worked with in other he said. “The best part about being a

to entertain at fundraisers and to fight bitt said. “From the time I was a little school districts, he said. school psychologist is the great team

substance abuse. She has taught drama kid I dreamed of having a drama class “Saratoga students are really lucky atmosphere.”

since the 1980s. She has held her English where kids—no matter who they are and to have all these facilities,” Slone said. Slone is looking forward to being

credential for years and used to write for whatever people felt about them—could “The best part is that they seem to ap- able to work with the special education

a living. To cap it off, she produced and get up and try on all these different roles preciate everything offered.” students as well as the rest of the staff.

performed in a documentary entitled and blow people’s minds.” Previously, he worked as a school “It’s an amazing student body and a

“The Last Laugh” to bring awareness to Babbitt has high aspirations for the psychologist at both the Irvine Uni- wonderful staff,” Slone said. “I couldn’t

AIDS in 1991. drama program. She plans to give the fied School District and Lodi Unified be happier to be here.” u

Needless to say, new drama and Eng- Drama 1 students “a little taste of every-

lish teacher Karin Babbitt has quite a re- thing,” including pantomime, storytell-

sume.

Throughout her childhood, Babbitt

dreamed of doing stand-up comedy and

ing, play writing, theater tech and cos-

tume design. In the higher levels of the

course, however, Babbitt aims to focus

New counselor fitting in

eventually made that dream a reality. on more advanced topics such as drama

“People always say, ‘Isn’t [comedy] theory. In addition, she will give Drama BY JayMulye makes me excited to come to work ev-

the hardest thing in the world?’ Well, I 4 Honors students the opportunity to ery day and meet the students.”

think it is ridiculously easy,” Babbitt said. study various production jobs, such as “I felt as if I had died and gone to As the Link Crew co-director, Kellert

“You get up and act silly for 45 minutes direction and design. heaven,” guidance counselor Lisa Kel- has already started contributing to the

and they pay you, and you don’t have to English teacher Kerry Mohnike, who lert said of her first day at Saratoga school, demonstrating her versatility.

go to a real job for eight hours.” taught the drama classes last year, recog- High. “It was great getting to know some

Babbitt later found work as a comic in nized the need for a teacher with formal Kellert replaced previous guidance students before school started,” Kellert

her hometown of Los Angeles. In 1988, training in drama. Additionally, Mohni- counselor Christy Cali, who retired said.

she moved to the Santa Cruz area, where ke noted that she did not have the time last year. She is excited about joining According to assistant principal Bri-

she started acting locally, teaching and to direct the school productions due to the guidance department and looks an Safine, Kellert was an ideal candi-

performing in drug recovery venues. teaching and family commitments. Last forward to creating lasting re- date to fill Cali’s shoes.

In California, she taught at San Lorenzo year, the school had to hire outside direc- lationships with all of her stu- “She has experience work-

Valley High and San Jose State before tors for “Our Town” and “Dr. Jekyll and dents. ing with the high achieving

she taught drama at Scotts Valley High Mr. Hyde.” Babbitt, on the other hand, “It is a privilege to work with students as well as struggling

for 10 years. will direct this year’s productions. teenagers, especially the unique students,” Safine said.

Starting this year, Babbitt will lead the “We liked the experience that she and amazing individuals on Kellert welcomes anybody

drama department in addition to teach- had. She [also] had really good referenc- this campus,” Kellert said. to her office and hopes that stu-

ing one English 9 class. She expects her es,” Mohnike said. “The students that Kellert is already familiar dents will approach her if they

first year to be a good one. she worked with at her former school with the South Bay commu- ever have any problems.

“My first impression [of the school] praised her highly.” nity, which eases her transition Kellert “It is fascinating to make a

was that I had landed in paradise,” Bab- After more than 30 years of working to Saratoga High. She served connection and a difference in

bitt said. “[The staff] continually prove at various schools and organizations, as a counselor at Wilcox High School the life of a student, even if it is only

to be brilliant and generous, and the Babbitt feels excited to start anew at last year and was an English teacher one,” Kellert said. “It is rewarding

community support is exemplary.” Saratoga High. at Prospect High School for four years and fulfilling to know I have helped a

Babbitt said she was inspired to “I feel privileged to be working here,” prior to that. student during his or her high school

teach because of her desire to help kids she said. “I am very, very grateful and I “It is a community here and you can experience, whether it be academic or

through high school—often a rocky time hope I please [everyone].” u really feel it,” she said. “That’s what personal.” u









Continued from pg. S1 adults from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a These experiences contrasted with or doesn’t use any visuals, or uses the

midday break that spanned the day’s her recent involvement as a mentor with same teaching method all the time.”

love the experience nor the impact it warmest hours. the Santa Cruz New Teacher Project. Like Keys, Tolley feels like she has

would have on the rest of her career. After moving back to Wisconsin, “I got to have more sense of what benefited from her adventurous past.

“The first class I ever taught, I walked where she came from, Keys continued school is like for students, since instead “I feel like it’s unique in that I’ve

in and I had no idea what I was supposed to teach from 1995 to 2007, this time at a of being up in front of the class, I was sit- taught students from so many different

to do. I really underestimated how much diverse high school with students from ting at the back,” Keys said. She gained backgrounds,” Tolley said. “Something I

it takes [to teach a class],” she said. countries such as Laos, Ethiopia, Viet- a sense of how students respond “when really try to do is meet the needs of my

She taught English to children and nam and Mexico. the teacher is disorganized, or stressed, students where they’re at right now.” u









ALEX JU