The Union - Milpitas High School - September 2017 by MHS The Union

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SEPTEMBER 2017 Volume XXIX Issue I

UNION O PI N I O N 2

E D ITO R IAL 3

T HE

F E AT U R E S 5

E NTE R TAI N M E NT 6

S PO R TS 7

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STUDENT VOICE OF MILPITAS HIGH SCHOOL

Rojas introduced as principal BY KATHERINE HUBENY

Principal Francis Rojas officially became MHS principal on July 1, according to Superintendent Cheryl Jordan. With his previous experience in a large high school and sense of direction, he is a great addition to the MHS community, Jordan explained. Rojas’ involvement in MHS so far has been wonderful, according to Jordan. His heart for students and staff and confidence in the school have so far been demonstrated with his interactions with those on campus, she continued. “He really understands how important his role is and being the spokesperson for [community involvement with MHS],” Jordan said. “And he’s a person who has the experience of working in a very large high school, so he has great sense of what we can do here at Milpitas High School to bring it to the next level.” One of Rojas’ starting points this year to bring MHS to the next level is to encourage communication and equity, Rojas explained. He hopes to promote the continuation of learning for students and staff to spread a wealth of work and knowledge, he added. “For a school focus this year, I’ve kind of shared with the staff that I’d like the focus to be around equity through engagement,” Rojas said. “You know our district’s focus is the culture of we, and it’s really about building community and a culture of, you know, we’re in this together.” There is generally a more positive and hopeful feel on campus this year, according to Rojas. He says that teachers are more confident that he can actually lead the school, and although there’s uncertainty, he thinks that so far his track record has been good, Rojas explained. “There’s a lot of work to be done here [at MHS], but it’s not unfamiliar to me,” Rojas said. “I think the staff appreciates that we don’t have to start from the bottom, we don’t have to start from ground zero.” The transition so far for Rojas has been smooth, in part due to his coming from a larger high school, Rojas said. Many of the processes Rojas has put into place functioned well at James Logan High School and Super-

intendent Jordan and other people who work in the district office have been very supportive of everything that he has done so far, Rojas explained. “I think this community has felt that we haven’t given enough attention to Milpitas High School, and that a lot of resources and direction has really gone toward our elementary and middle schools,” Rojas said. “The last two principals may have been unsuccessful here because no one was really guiding them or maybe they didn’t have the skills and knowledge about running a large high school.” When discussing Rojas’ impact at Logan, Jordan learned that Rojas has a strong track record of follow through and a strong sense of direction, Jordan explained. These qualities all go back to the students, and how his abilities and experience will help create an environment where students can flourish, she continued. At Logan, the staff explained to her his contributions, she said. “The staff, when I spoke with them, they expressed admiration,” Jordan said. “They also talked about how it was going to be a loss for their school to lose him, which tells me that he had a big impact on the culture and community there in a positive way.” Working with the new principal has been good, according to Assistant Principal Jennifer Hutchison. The meetings the administration have had are balanced with fun and work and she’s glad he’s here, she continued. “It’s been really nice having him here,” Hutchison said. “He has definitely made it a point to get to know people, and I really think that really benefits him in leading our school.” Rojas’ contributions to MHS have all been positive so far, according to Science Teacher Letta Meyer. Meyer, as one of the advisors for the school’s Science Olympiad Team, appreciates that he is supportive of everything the team has done and has been working to learn more about the school, she explained. “I think one of the biggest things is he’s trying to create personable relationships,” Meyer said. “He’s trying to get to know us and our school and he’s seeing good things and he sees the things that need to be fixed and he sees the things that are good.

Eye on Campus: CLOG Rush

Shreeya Aranake | THE UNION

Junior Liberty Walker leads the Junior Class’s homecoming disco float along the track at the Homecoming Parade before the homecoming football game.

Grace Chang | THE UNION

An overview of the front of the BioTech Lab on the community college campus is pictured with tables and a smartboard (Left). Students leave facility to start walking back to MHS from their respective classes on the campus (Right).

Overpopulation relocates MHS teachers BY KATHERINE HUBENY

Four MHS teachers have been moved over to the community college campus due to overcrowding on the MHS campus, according to Principal Francis Rojas. The increase in MHS’ population sparked the idea to move teachers to the college to accommodate the teachers that did not have dedicated classrooms, Rojas explained. When MHS ran out of classrooms for all of the teachers, the administration turned to the community college because it is a joint use facility, and between the Dean at the San Jose City College campus and himself, there is shared jurisdiction, Rojas said. The campus is available for MHS to use during the day before the end of the regular school day, he added. “The reason why we moved some teachers over to the community college campus is because we are now beyond the capacity,” Rojas explained. “Our school is crowded.” Due to the lack of space, four teachers were scheduled to move from classroom to classroom throughout the day, according to Rojas. These

teachers’ lack of dedicated classrooms would have required them to move every classroom, which does not set up a new teacher for success, Rojas explained. “That also doesn’t set up students for success because that teacher’s not prepared to teach the class,” Rojas said. “You know takes it time to transition, they’re out of breath, they’re moving their materials from here to there.” The four MHS teachers on the college campus are Physics Teacher Kathleen Downum, Chinese Teacher Furong Miao, Korean Teacher Iwon Shin, and Math Teacher Wai Lan Tsang, according to College Extension Director Michael Mooney. The teachers receive benefits by being on the campus, such as the use of the copiers and a tech lab, and he’s been trying to treat them well and provide them with any help that they need, Mooney said. Mooney has been at the college campus to facilitate the relations with the high school and run the college there, Mooney explained. Since the high school has 40% ownership of the building, his goal is to make the campus appealing to bring high school

Aeries introduced as student portal BY JERALD MENDOZA

Aeries was rolled out at MHS this year leading to issues and complaints from teachers, according to Principal Francis Rojas. Part of the issue is a lack of familiarity with the system, Rojas said. The Aeries system is a great upgrade compared to the grading system at Logan, Rojas said. It may not be perceived as having a good interface, but it’s one of the better alternatives to School Loop, he continued. “Aeries is a lot more cohesive and a more powerful program than my last district,” Rojas said. “I can’t just go around saying, you don’t know how good you have it. That’s what I see, but that’s not the reality that the staff, students, teachers have.” Aeries simply doesn’t have the same simplicity and capabilities that School Loop had, English Teacher Annie Marple said. Much of the functions School Loop has are missing or inaccessible from Aeries, she said.

“[Aeries] is just very clunky, not as functional, and I think whatever they were paying for School Loop was essential,” she said. “Go back School Loop, it’s what everyone knows. I know that it’s expensive but like I said, I think that’s an investment in strong infrastructure.” However budgetary decisions have to be made to cut down on spending, Rojas said. The school might be facing cuts soon, and things have to be streamlined, he added. “Things are looking a lot tighter now, meaning we will be facing cuts over the next three years. So if that hasn’t been shared, that is something that is being discussed,” Rojas said. “So it could be that, although this is speculation, changes were made because [the district] knew cuts were coming, so they had to figure out how to streamline things to make it cost-effective.” Some teachers are confused about how to post homework, Senior MarSEE AERIES ON PAGE 8

teachers, and subsequently, students to the campus, he continued. With the great experience he’s had so far, he plans to bring more high school involvement to the campus, Mooney said. “I’ve loved having the kids here; it’s been fantastic,” Mooney said. “I just love watching the students walk back and forth and we have probably somewhere between 450 and 500 students that come over right now.” The District Office plans to continue use of the building for the students, according to Superintendent Cheryl Jordan. Since 40% of the building belongs to MHS during the school day, it should be occupied and is a good way to provide additional classrooms, Jordan explained. “I think it’s an awesome opportunity for us to do something different for our kids that a lot of other districts don’t have that to do,” Jordan said. Being at the community college campus has had its ups and its downs, Downum said. She loves the space the classroom has for activity and those at the college campus have been welcoming, she explained. “They’re getting better little by litSEE CAMPUS ON PAGE 8

N EWS IN BR IEF Upcoming Standardized Test Dates The upcoming SAT dates are on Oct. 7 and Nov. 4. The deadline to register for the Nov. SAT is on Oct. 5. The upcoming ACT test is on Oct. 28; the deadline to register is on Sep. 22. Days of Observance There will be no school on Oct. 9th in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day and no school on Nov. 10 for Veteran’s Day. There will be no school on Nov. 1 for a teacher inservice. Community Events Author Mitali Perkins will be at the Milpitas Public Library on Oct. 14th at 3 p.m. for a discussion and book signing. Stanford Blood Drive California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society are hosting the Fall Blood Drive on Oct. 16 in the MHS Library. Sadie Hawkins Dance The annual Sadies Dance will be held on Nov. 4.

THE UNION

PRO

‘1001 Nights’ theme inauthentic, lacks familiarity with culture This year’s theme for the marching to Arabic clothing, however, with an band is based off of One Thousand American interpretation. and One Nights, which is a collection Our school does not have a large of Middle Eastern folk tales compopulation of Arabic students so it piled in Arabic during the Islamic seems odd for the band theme to Golden Age. Every year the band has be revolving music, costumes, and a theme that the music, routine around Arabic color guard costumes and culture. Last year’s theme the routine is based on. was La Fiesta Mexicana, The question this year is if which incorporated Histhe theme represents culpanic music and costume tural appropriation. The into their routine, which I exact definition of cultural feel like was more approappropriation is the adoppriate because we have tion or use of the elements more hispanic students of one culture by members on the campus. Hispanic of another culture which is music is more normalexactly what the band has ized compared to Arabic GRACE done with Arabic culture music because it is more CHANG for their show. The bigcommon and known to us ger question is: is cultural especially, with the large appropriation wrong, or is the band population of Hispanics on campus having this theme wrong? and in the Bay Area. It does not seem There have been many different appropriate for us to incorporate definitions of cultural appropriation parts of Arabic culture into the show and discussion on what is considered without having the same familiarity cultural appropriation. Cultural apthat the band and student body has propriation has a negative connotawith Hispanic culture. tion because it implies that you are Because we are not familiar with taking or using things from a culture Arabic culture the band theme can without showing that you understand perpetuate stereotypes. This culture or respect this culture. In this case, may not be portrayed accurately, and they are adopting Arabian culture in therefore may allow for the show’s their performance. In my opinion, viewers to believe certain untrue the band theme does represent the things about the people of this culconcept of cultural appropriation. ture. What assurance do we have that The theme “1001 Nights” has many we haven’t already offended some aspects of Arabian culture as menstudents? l the general process is. I tioned before. The music the band know that having a large student body plays along with the color guard causes the schedule-making process costumes strongly convey Arabian to be difficult; however, I still urge for culture. The music played has an that process to become more efficient emphasis on brass and percussion for the convenience of current and fuinstruments. The costumes are akin ture students.

CON

‘1001 Nights’ represents culture, advocates for acceptance for all In a more socially conscious pres- affecting an entire people and their ent, there is an awareness of the im- culture. The theme has given myportance of diversity and represen- self, the band, and audiences an optation. This awareness can lead to an portunity to listen to and celebrate over-analysis of actions, and words Arabic music. This is one of the few like “cultural appropriation” fre- times we’ll have to hear it. the show quently follow. The selection of the has done something positive in that theme for this year’s marching band respect. show is one of those actions. Furthermore, the idea that, just The show, based off the story, One because you’re part of one culture, Thousand and One Nights, isn’t cul- you automatically are excluded from tural appropriation for a few reasons. participating in aspects of anothFor it to be cultural appropriation, er culture is baffling to me. People there has to be a dominating culture preach diversity, but call any attempt attempting to take aspects of another at cultural exchange by people not culture as their own, and there has to of that culture inappropriate. Culbe a conscious lack of representation ture is meant to be shared, and poor in the marching band. attempts at portraying The marching band, another culture will be while made up mostly of inevitable. I do hope the Asians, shows little evimarching band can nail dence of a specific ethnic the theme. I wish we could culture being expressed. hire a dance instructor We don’t celebrate any familiar with traditional special ethnic holidays Arabic dance. I wish the as a band, nor are we remarching band could afquired to dress up in culford traditional Arabic tural garb that isn’t show instruments and learn costumes. So when the how to play them. But you JERALD band performs a song have to realize the imMENDOZA based off of a culture, practicality of these wishit’s not Asian, Latino, or es. You can’t expect the White culture appropriating another music program to be able to afford culture. They’re just musicians play- traditional instruments. You can’t ing ethnic music. expect marching band students to In fact, the choice of an Arabic learn a new instrument from in a few theme should be applauded for pro- months, let alone march and play at moting diversity. In a time when the same time. You can’t expect the the subject of the Middle East is color guard to be used to a new dance controversial, it’s more important style no one is used to, and nail it. than ever for people to be exposed You can’t fault the music program to Arabic culture. It’s important that for not having many Arab students the Middle East is humanized, filled for the music to represent, since it’s with people just like us. It’s import- students that decide to enter the proant that people are reminded that the gram. All we can do is hope that we Middle East isn’t an abstract political do the music, the choreography, and quagmire, but a humanitarian crisis the culture, justice.

OPINIONS

SEPTEMBER 2017

Scheduling problems plague beginning of semester At the start of every semester, many students receive their schedules only to realize that an error has been made on them. Whether it be having the same class twice in a row or not having a required foreign language class, these mistakes can be problematic for a student who is now forced to attend a class they did not sign up for. It is understandable and somewhat unsurprising that a school with nearly 3300 students will have made errors with students’ schedules. However, the frequent nature of these mistakes and the tedious process in getting them fixed is an unfortunately familiar routine for many. It is common to see a large group of students waiting in line to schedule an appointment during their break or lunch in the opening weeks of school to have their schedules changed in some form. This is a draining and time-consuming process and the rate of success in changing students’ schedules varies greatly. Each situation is different, ergo different results from the process are sure to ensue. Part of the problem with scheduling mistakes is that in some instances, whether a student is able to switch into a class can be influenced by misinformation. Even when a student is told by a counselor that a class is

full, they have to consider checking was also misconducted, because the with the teachers for the class in that times to arrive were never explicitly period because it is possible that the specified anywhere. Furthermore, class can still fit more people. This students were called inside in an undisjunction between what organized way. The order a counselor says and what they went in didn’t follow a teacher says can cause the timings on the slips a student to make an inpassed out and line cutaccurate assumption. As ting was an unsurprisingly a result, even more confrequent occurrence. fusion might ensue since Over the years, I have the student would hear experienced issues with contradicting statements my schedule that needed between the teachers and to be fixed in the begincounselors. ning of the semester, and Admittedly, in some casknow that this has been a SUHAS es, it makes sense as to why prevalent issue for many SHEKAR people were not placed in others as well. There are their chosen classes in the some understandable limfirst place. Some courses itations to how successful simply do not have enough teachers the general process is. On the other to accommodate the hordes of stu- hand, there is still room for improvedents interested in taking it. In fact, ment with how the schedule-making there are some AP classes in the past procedure is carried out. I know that few years which have had student having a large student body causes counts as high as 40 because of they the schedule-making process to be had an extremely high demand. difficult. however, if the problem is in Similar to how students receive fact the overpopulation at the school, schedules on the first day of school, then it is time for MHS to become Juniors and Seniors curious about more organized. I urge for that protheir schedules had the option to view cess to become more efficient for the and change them the Friday before convenience of current and future school began. I felt that the process students. for this preemptive schedule fixing

Trek to campus extension poses new problems Direct your gaze to the front of the One way to interpret that gap stems campus, and you may see a mass exfrom the actual distance between odus of MHS students walking off the two campuses. Once on the exof campus during passing periods. tension campus, a slight feeling of Unlike the previous school year, detachment sets in. Without school several MHS classes relobells, announcements, cated this year to the San and quick accessibility Jose City College campus to every part of campus, extension across the street. it is not quite connected As a novel idea, the placing to the main campus alof high school teachers and though there are MHS classes in the college buildstudents and teachers on ings seems to only be an the campus during school advantage for MHS. With a hours. Granted, students student body of over 3,300 have four extra minutes individuals and more than to get to their next class, ten new teachers and staff, but for those who need to HOPE classroom availability and get to a math or science DO overcrowding on the main class in the L building, the campus presents a difficult walk still ends up taking dilemma. Last year, some precious time away from teachers shuffled from classroom to class. On test days or lecture days classroom due to the lack of available where teachers need to utilize every classrooms for permanent use. By minute of the class period, students relocating a fraction of the school’s end up behind in class, even with the population to the SJCC campus, the extra time to get from class to class. school alleviates the problem. HowThe question of emergency and ever, a tangible gap exists between the safety procedures exemplifies antwo campuses that is not conducive to other interpretation of the distance a stable, safe learning environment between the SJCC campus extension for all students. and the main MHS campus. Safety

procedures and drills for the SJCC campus remain unknown to students who attend classes on the campus. Due to the location of the extension campus as well as the fact that another administrator supervises the campus, students have been left in the dark as to what to do if an emergency occurs, such as a fire or intruder. The extension’s close proximity to the Thomas Russell Middle School campus adds yet another factor to take into consideration with respect to potential drills and emergencies. Whether students and teachers on the SJCC campus follow the procedures of the middle school, the high school, or the community college’s own emergency processes is yet to be clearly defined. Considering that the idea of moving several classes to the SJCC extension campus went into effect just this school year, it is reasonable to assume that the figurative wrinkles still need to be ironed out. When we eventually solve these issues, I hope that moving forward, students and staff will be able to look at the SJCC campus and recognize its position as an integral part of the school.

Lack of access to female products quite inconvenient “Does anyone have a pad?” This is the typical phrase that can be heard along with frantic panicking in the girls’ locker room or bathroom. But why? It is because MHS bathrooms are not stocked with female hygienic products despite a large portion of students that may require such products in case of an emergency. Therefore, it is imperative that the school provides students with easy access to such products. Currently all bathrooms, other than the L building bathrooms, lack a receptacle that dispenses female hygienic products. Since the school bathrooms were recently remodeled, there is a possibility that the receptacles were dismantled. However, even though the L building bathrooms have the receptacle for such products, it does not mean placing a quarter in it in will get you anything. The receptacles are not locked, so just by opening it you can see there was nothing inside of it to begin with! It is worth acknowledging that

female hygienic products are ac- MHS has a pupil poverty closer to tually available when asked for 20%. Of course in one way this is in the front office...or possibly a positive fact, but it means that at the nurse’s office? The rea- MHS is not legally in a situation son even I am unaware of their where they must provide access whereabouts is because to these products. That is why it is still comthis information is not mendable that MHS publicly announced. The school should enprovides them in the ofsure that female stufice, but we are still in a situation where schooldents are aware that the products are availwide easy access is necable at the front office. essary. Otherwise, the school A fter speaking with should provide them in Principa l Rojas on the bathrooms. The latthe matter, it sounds ter is the goal here, belike stock ing MHS ANANYA cause in an emergency bathrooms with femiDONAPATI it is exceedingly convenine hygiene products nient to have immedishould be an easy hurate access rather than having to dle to cross. Financially, the exdart across campus. tra cost of supplying such goods Many may assume that there is generally affordable. He was must be a law for public schools also very supportive of the inithat says providing feminine tiative because emergencies hygiene products in easy access, can happen, and it is important and such a law does exist but that MHS supports its students. it does not directly affect our Hopefully, students on the camschool. A school with a percent- pus will be able to quickly access age around 30% of pupil poverty feminine hygiene products in would be required to provide, but bathrooms soon.

THE UNION

EDITORIAL

E DI T OR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

Supporting DACA quintessential to our nation If someone was asked where their home was, they would name the country that they grew up in: where they went to school, where they have the most friends, and where they know the most people. For a lot of us, home is characterized by our birthplace. For immigrants, home is characterized by the new country they live in. For DREAMers, home is New York City. It’s San Fransisco. It’s Milpitas. We, The Union, believe that it is in our nation’s and our community’s best interest to support Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and those who reap its benefits. Under DACA, children who came to the United States with their parents before their 16th birthday are legally recognized as DREAMers. DACA gives children of illegal immigrants protection from deportation as well as a work permit. Since its implementation in 2012 by the Obama administration, DACA has allowed nearly 800,000 young adults who came to the United States illegally under their parent’s supervision to stay in the US. As a city inhabited by immigrants and immigrant families, we believe that the strength of our community is found in our ability to be accepting of those who work hard to contribute to the community. By legally protecting and allowing the children of illegal immigrants to stay in the city, DACA does two things. One, it recognizes

that the children who come here at a young age are Americans; by sheer amount of time spent here since youth, by the schooling they received, and by the people they have grown up with. If they are sent back to their country, they will be foreigners, and all the sacrifices that their parents made will be for nothing. Two, DACA increases the labor force by allowing these Americans to legally work. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), if the population eligible for DACA by 2020 is deported, the labor force would decline by 1.8 million and the real GDP will decrease by $176 billion (one percent decrease in real GDP.) If DACA is repealed, the impact on the economy will be felt in a couple of years. However, the impact on our community will be felt immediately. Principal Rojas has said that for the families that may be impacted by the repeal of DACA, the school will provide whatever resources possible in order to aid those families, in case a situation arises in that they might be in any kind of legal danger. The possibility of families in our community being faced with potential deportation is terrifying. Recently, Trump has said that legislation to protect the children of undocumented immigrants will “come later.” However, if recent news concerning Trump’s “repeal and re-

place” plan for healthcare has taken so long even with a Republican majority of the House, the Senate, and the executive branch, “come later” doesn’t seem like much to hold on to. For DREAMers who practically grew up here “come later” means more uncertainty than ever before. If the new healthcare bills have shown the country anything, it is that the Congressmen in D.C. are not likely to show any mercy to minorities. Many in favor of repealing DACA have argued that illegal immigrants have broken the law: they’re illegal! These critics say that the notion that any politicians in favor of DACA are in favor of peopl ewho have commited a crime. However, those who believe such do not understand the circumstances in which DREAMers arrive to the United States. Many of these children were not conscious of the decisions their parents made and the consequences that would ensue. It may be easy for a politician in an air-conditioned government office to vote no on a program like DACA. But when its your neighbors, co-workers, or classmates who might get sent to a foreign country because their parents wanted the opportunity to give their children a better life, the idea of repealing DACA is abhorrent. In essence, DREAMers are as American as you and I are, and defending them should be our priority.

E DI T OR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

MHS overpopulation hinders school efficiency As over 3,300 students bustle in to MHS this year, the rate of scheduling problems are at an all time high, classroom sizes are getting egregiously larger and larger compared to previous years, and people now have to bustle back and forth between the X Building and the main campus. It is the opinion of The Union that our high school is overpopulated, and we must find a permanent solution that will benefit both the staff members as well as the student body of MHS. With such an extensive student body and only five counselors, the number of students assigned to each counselor is overwhelming. Attempting to organize the schedules of thousands of students is no small feat, but with the influx of students, the first two weeks of the school year were plagued with long lines of students looking to review and change their schedules. Some students’ schedules were even switched with the wrong grade, fueling the pandemonium. The process of modifying schedules already presents an efficiency problem in itself, as the amount of time required to make an appointment and resolve issues is lengthy for both

the students and the counselors. Furthermore, the classrooms are inundated with students, which poses safety concerns. In the case of an emergency, students may face harm that could otherwise be prevented because of the inaccessibility of clear walkways and lack of space. The school was not built to accommodate this vast population of students and staff. With the new X Building across the street from the main campus, the school is now liable if students are injured in the process of crossing the street to get to class. Safety is a major issue as the population at MHS explodes. The few drills we do have at our schools tend to end in chaos due to the lack of organization in controlling such a large amount of students. another way a large population poses as more of a danger to our school In addition, the quality of education declines and the students may not receive the attention they need. The student-to-teacher ratio is astoundingly large, which may prove to be detrimental to teachers and does not contribute to a conducive learning environment. Also, even with the

new rule that students may only take three AP classes, there still may not be enough teachers for the popular subjects. Moreover, the student body is projected to get larger with each passing year, and each class seems to become more and more populous. With the construction of the new elementary school and housing complexes, more families will move to Milpitas and children will eventually end up at the high school. The most promising solution is to build a new high school. Though the amount of time necessary to accomplish such a feat may be large, the eventual explosion in population due to the influx in housing and the new elementary school will inevitably force the city to need a new high school. A new school will make sure the student poulation is evenly divided between two schools, and therefore will alleviate current issues about safety, classroom sizes, schedling problems., and overflow classes in the X-building. Hopefully, the district will be able to attend to the demands of this growing population.

SEPTEMBER 2017

U NION S T U D E N T V O I C E O F M I L P I TA S H I G H

The Union is published by the Journalism class of Milpitas High School. The views in The Union are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the school, students, administration, or Milpitas Unified School District.

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H AV E A N OPI N ION ? Have a gripe with the school?

L E T T E R T O T H E E DI T OR Buses should be given to all sports teams, not just the most populated ones I wish to address the fact the only selective sports teams receive bus ride transportation. When I joined my sports team, my parents and I were not informed that our sports team had no arranged bus ride. I understand it is a privilege to be apart of the sports team but I do not understand why the bare minimum of the six teams get a bus. I understand the entire process of requesting for funds

as it states on the “Milpitas High School Athletic Booster Club (ABC)” handout. Our athletic director also has the final say in funds, to reject or to accept. Our school strongly reinforces the idea that athletes donate at least $100.00 for every sport they join… where do my parent’s hard-earned money go if they don’t go towards our transportation? I understand that parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s events.. How can our parents participate if they are working to donate $100.00 to the school and for other expenses? It seems as

Want to praise the school?

though all of our donated money has gone towards football and partially volleyball. Volleyball has their own “safe transportation” mini bus, which director Lamb has approved. There is no other way to put this except that I feel the bias or favoring of teams.

Katyana De Ocampo Class of 2019

Want your voice to be heard? The Union publishes letters to the editor every issue Submit all letters to Room e-17 Do not forget to write down your name and grade

THE UNION

SEPTEMBER 2017

THE UNION

FEATURES

False alarm frequency causes desensitivity BY JERALD MENDOZA

Recent fire alarm activity has raised concern over the preparedness of the MHS students in times of emergency, and whether students take alarms seriously. Students are advised to act with caution whenever an alarm sounds, Assistant Principal Jennifer Hutchison said. Fire alarms are there to alert students of an emergency, so it’s important to proceed carefully in the event of an alarm, especially outside of class, according to Hutchison. Knowing where to go and moving in an orderly fashion is an important part of student safety, she said. “The places to evacuate during lunch would be towards the front or back of the school, wherever you are closest,” Hutchison said. “We’re working on getting that information out to the staff, and that is part of what I’ve been working on this week,

so that they will be relaying it to students as well.” One suggestion for reducing the amount of false alarms is possibly putting plastic covers on them, English Teacher Annie Marple said. People don’t really react when a fire alarm goes off, which probably tells you something about the frequency of alarms, she said. “I think that if we were less battered by false alarms, then we would be very effective at evacuating,” Marple said. “I guess we’re all just hubristically assuming that nothing will ever happen because we don’t want to think about it.” Some students are aware that a lack of care might pose a problem, Sophomore Marissa Clarke said. If there is a real fire, most students wouldn’t believe the alarm, she continued. “I don’t do anything since [the alarms] have been false alarms all year, and that’s not a very good thing,”

Clarke said. “Because if there is a real fire, no one will do anything and think it’s another false alarm.” Not all students are concerned about the lack of reaction from fire alarms, Senior Tiffany Dinh said. Students should be fine as long as they have some common sense, she said. “I think more harm comes when students freak out. Our school is an outdoor school for starters so there shouldn’t be as much worry,” Dinh said. “I’m pretty sure we’ve seen enough fire safety videos to have common sense, and if it were a real fire, admins and staff should guide the students to safety right?” The apathy in students is apparent, Senior Melanie Chen said. It would be interesting to see how students would react to an actual fire, she said. “No one moved at all during the fire alarm,” Chen said. “Everyone just sat and kept on eating and talking, and it was kind of funny. But if it was real we would probably all die.”

Chartering clubs easier at other schools BY KELLY LUE GRACE CHANG

ananya donapati and Hope Do| the Union

The start of the school year marks the beginning of many things: strict schedules, an abundance of homework, and the stressful process that is club chartering. It’s a well-known notion that chartering clubs and organizations at MHS is difficult. Behind every CLOG is a meticulous procedure that involves attending officer trainings, drafting pristine constitutions, and filling out a plethora of forms. The process for maintaining clubs is just as detailed—clubs have to regularly turn in minutes, be present at CLOG Council and Congress, and participate in events such as the Jack Emery Drive. But what about other schools’ club procedures? Are they just as detailed as our processes are? According to club officers from schools around the Bay Area who took part in a survey on club processes, their club procedures are either relatively similar to ours or even simpler. On one end of the spectrum, the club chartering process in Piedmont Hills High School is fairly easy, according to PHHS Senior Justin Chi-

ang. As the treasurer of his school’s Science Club, and a lasting member in several other clubs, Chiang is familiar with his high school’s club procedures. “The process for creating clubs at our school is pretty easy,” Chiang said. “We only need to inform the club administrator that we are planning to create a club and remind any supervisor, such as a teacher, to host our club meetings,” Chiang continued. Maintaining clubs during the school year is fairly easy as well, according to Chiang. Clubs individually handle their own funds, and don’t seem to follow detailed procedures. Schools such as Monta Vista High School follow a club chartering process similar to that of MHS, but still have some extremely lenient aspects. According to MVHS Senior Sandeep Sidhu, clubs follow a certain set of instructions leading up to the chartering of a club. “[Clubs have to] fill out forms online and wait for your application to be approved or rejected by Student Life,” Sidhu explained. “Officers are interviewed and [you have to] wait for clubs to be approved by legisla-

tive council.” Senior Patrick Kan, also from Monta Vista High School, exemplifies the lenient side to MVHS’s club procedures. No official process was employed when he was made an officer of a club, according to Kan. “I was literally told, ‘You’re the president’ and there I was,” Kan said, highlighting a fundamental difference between club procedures within Monta Vista High School. Junior Jeffrey Jin from American High School has been a member involved in LEO and Interact since his sophomore year, he said. Compared to those of MHS, club procedures at AHS are extremely simple as well. “The process is simple,” Jin said. “You have to receive the required amount of signatures and find a teacher or staff [member] that is willing to supervise your club. There is no strikes policy.” The results of the survey suggest that most schools follow either relatively similar club procedures, or simpler ones. Some responses even highlight the lack of club chartering processes, which greatly contrasts the highly detailed process used to charter MHS CLOGs.

Ananya Donapati | THE UNION

Principal Francis Rojas poses for a photo to introduce himself to students.

Get to know Principal Rojas BY ANANYA DONAPATI GRACE CHANG

Q: “What is your favorite food?” Rojas: “I like noodles; it doesn’t even have to come from one culture. I love wonton noodle soup, and that comes from China or Hong Kong. I love spaghetti or pasta, and that’s Italian--anything with noodles.” Q: “What are your hobbies?”“ Rojas: It’s hard to have hobbies when you’re a principal. When my wife and I did have time we actually used to sing at church and do music. Right now, it’s spending time with my kids.”

Q: “What did you want to be when you were little?” “I wanted to be a pediatrician.” Q: “What’s your favorite part about MHS?” “I love this school. Now that the students have gotten here, I think my favorite part right now is the students. You guys are very positive. Many people ask me from my last school how things are, and ‘how you’re never sure if the grass is greener on the other side.’ I tell them, ‘well this time the grass is greener.’ I’m really blessed and happy. There’s a lot of work to be done, but I feel like this is a really good school.”

Ananya donapati | THE UNION

One of the hiking routes at the Senior Picnic included a large pipe with flowing creek water, creating a very serene path.

Senior Picnic, a pleasant escape into nature BY JERALD MENDOZA

Senior Picnic was held on September 8th, at Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Springs offers a variety of activities for seniors to enjoy, like a hiking trail, swimming pool, volleyball, and other games. Hiking was a very popular activity at the picnic, with many seniors going down the trail, Senior Annie Ngo said. It’s a great way to band and have fun with your friends and bond she said. “I think the best thing to do there is go hiking with your friends,” Ngo said. “Because you guys all really help each other out when you’re trying get through the rocks and water.” One of the unforeseen consequences of the venue was the lack of cellular

service at the Springs, Senior Marlene Nguyen said. It helped the vibe and made students interact more, she said. “It was really funny,” Nguyen said. “Because no one could be on their phones so everyone had to talk to each other.” Saratoga Springs features a lot of athletic activities, of which not everyone is into, Senior Sally Seok said. Not everyone can play volleyball together or hike very well, she said. “I feel like I didn’t really do much because I’m not much of an athletic person and most activities at Saratoga Springs are pretty physical,” Seok said. “But it was still fun because I got to relax for a bit.” A lot of people had memorable mo-

ments at the picnic, from falling into the stream to getting a tattoo from the tattoo artist, Senior Michelle Nguyen said. Everyone had a great time, no matter the circumstance, she said. “My favorite part was getting hit with a volleyball,” Nguyen said. “Because you know I had it coming. I also liked walking around with wet shoes and socks for a few hours. That’s always great.” Future seniors should be prepared for a good hike at the Springs, Michelle Nguyen said. You want to enjoy the hike, and being prepared helps, she said. “Incoming seniors should go hiking,” Nguyen said. “And bring slippers or waterproof shoes, because wet socks are the worst.”

THE UNION

SEPTEMBER 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Spider-Man’ successfully swings into theater RATING: (out of five emojis)

ly skips Peter Parker’s origin story, leaving the background to Sony’s prior Spider-Man movies and cutting BY KELLY LUE straight to the core of the hero-villain Over the summer, yet another Spi- dilemma. Because the film is set in der-Man movie premiered in the- the MCU, Marvel uses “Spider-Man: aters, this time as a permanent part Homecoming” to clarify details from of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as far back as the first Avengers movie (MCU). “Spider-Man: Homeas well. coming” takes the old SpiPeter Parker in “Spider-Man: der-Man franchise and revitalHomecoming” is notably izes it, giving Peter Parker (Tom younger-looking and more acHolland) one of the largest hecurately portrayed as a naive MOVIE roic roles he has ever acquired. trying to find balance REVIEW teenager “Spider-Man: Homecombetween being a hero and being ing” features significant difa high school student. What sets ferences compared to the previous this Spider-Man film apart from the Spider-Man movies, the most prom- others is that it is extremely centered inent being the fact that this movie is around Peter Parker’s high school life, set in the MCU. Although this is the contributing to a sense of realism that first solo Spider-Man film belonging wasn’t present in the other movies. to the Marvel franchise, it entire- His struggle is displayed throughout

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the film as he grapples with a desire to be a superhero and the mundane issues that almost all high school students experience. In addition to the numerous action scenes, there are the equally exciting moments set in academia with his best friend, Ned (Jacob Batalon) and his love interest, Liz (Laura Harrier). Although it is seen in other Marvel films, Peter’s issue with keeping his identity concealed is more amplified and heartfelt, considering how he is still in high school. The film appeals to emotion, portraying the ups and downs of an endearing, almost father-son relationship between Peter and Tony Stark. The movie was a fresh addition to the MCU, but even for non-Marvel fans, it is very enjoyable as a standalone.

Ananya Donapati| The Union

Taka, lead singer of ONE OK ROCK (center) puts the microphone out to the audience during one of the songs to sing along to.

ONE OK ROCK puts on dynamic performance RATING: (out of five emojis) BY ANANYA DONAPATI HOPE DO

One Ok Rock, stylized ONE OK ROCK, performed at the City National Civic Center in Downtown San Jose in mid-August as a part of its North American Ambitions Tour. The four-person Japanese rock band launched the tour for their first fully English album, “Ambitions.” The group formed in 2005, and its members include Takahiro “Taka” Moriuchi (lead singer), Toru Yamashita (guitarist), Ryota Kohama (bass guitarist), and Tomoya Kanki (drummer). The opening performances were played by Palisades and Set It Off. The concert started out with a couple of songs by Palisades, a post-hardcore band based in New Jersey. Following Palisades’ set, the rock band Set It Off came onto the stage led by Cody Carson, the lead singer. Set It Off took the energy that Palisades had created and built upon it, playing songs such as the poppy “Ancient History” and the angry shoutout, “Hypnotized.” The feeling of excitement kept building as the concert went on, but it was extremely evident

who the fans were there to see. When Palisades stepped out to perform, the level of energy in the crowd paled in comparison to when the stage managers prepared the equipment for One Ok Rock; there was an almost tangible shift as the Set It Off banners were pulled down to reveal One Ok Rock’s signature brand. As the first guitar chords of One Ok Rock’s “Ambitions (Introduction)” emanated from the stage, the crowd surged forward in a frenzy, cheers ringing out above the music. Lights flashed, illuminating the wisps of smoke that crept across the empty stage and around the equipment. When Taka finally bounded out to center stage, deafening cheers erupted from around us, hands waving in the charged air. One Ok Rock performed many songs from its latest album as well as the namesake of the tour, “Ambitions,” which were enthusiastically welcomed by the audience. Starting out with the bold opening song, “Bombs Away,” the band made its way through the more popular songs on the album such as the inspirational song “We Are” and powerful anthem “I Was King.” Fans passionately sang along with Taka, filling in the gaps ef-

fortlessly when he stopped and held the microphone out to the crowd. Toward the end of One Ok Rock’s performance, Taka announced that the next song would be a tribute to Chester Bennington, the lead singer of Linkin Park who recently passed away. Chester and his band were scheduled to tour later in the year with the group, but due to his passing, the tour was put on hold. Taka sang “One More Light,” which was followed by a moment of silence for Chester. It was a very surreal moment, as we were surrounded by the throng of audience members all quiet under the blue neon lights. The contrast from the blaring bass and screaming fans to total silence added another level of sentiment to their unique concert. The concert attracted fans of all ages, and many other MHS students attended to enjoy the music and atmosphere that One Ok Rock beautifully crafted. The audience was quite small in comparison to the venue, but as audience members, it felt more special. Overall, we enjoyed watching One Ok Rock and the other bands perform, and we would definitely recommend attending one of their concerts.

Rating key Tom Holland’s Frog Webslinger Fluid TBH APP SCHool Starting Emoji Movie MUSIC REVIEWS

I’M WITH THE BANNED by Various Artists Various Genres

WARM GLOW by Hippo Campus Indie Rock

RATING: (out of five emojis)

BY KELLY LUE

BY JERALD MENDOZA

“When people can’t travel, music will.” On July 6, the Spotify playlist “I’m with the banned” debuted in response to the temporary travel ban ordered by President Donald Trump. The playlist features artists from countries affected by the proposed ban, including Libya, Iran, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. In collaboration with American artists and producers, the international artists take different genres and meld them together in one unifying playlist, much like how music is generally seen as a unifying factor for multiple cultures. The playlist highlights important cultural issues including LGBTQ+ equality and immigration rights. Each featured song also contains an essence of individuality, as artists use their music to tell their own personal stories. The tracks on Spotify are also paired with a unique video that delves deeper into the artists’ stories and collaboration processes. Videos feature musicians such as Methal, who narrates her relationship with music and her country, and Kasra V, who explains his dream for freedom. The music itself is highly enjoyable and contemporary, with styles varying from rap to indie. For a playlist that reflects upon such heavy topics, each song communicates its message extremely well, and listeners will likely find it easy to listen to. The album is valuable in both music and meaning, and I hope it paves the way for similar albums to come. The playlist can be found at this link: tinyurl.com/imwiththebanned.

Hippo Campus released an EP on Sep 12th, much to many fans’ surprise. The EP has three tracks - “baseball”, “traveler”, and “warm glow.” Partially produced as part of their landmark album, the band returned from their most recent tour to finish the songs. The first track, “baseball”, sounds reminiscent of Hippo Campus’s older EP’s, with instrumentals returning to the forefront of the song. The song exudes a childish sunset feel. But what makes this EP so charming is its ability to transport you into a more innocent and care-free place. The pace of the EP slows down in the second song, going from the jubilant days of youth to an aloof feel in “traveler.” The song’s mood slows and enters a reverie-esque state, until the last verse. “Traveler” bridges into the last song, “warm glow”, the slowest and most eclectic sounding song in the EP. The song starts with a more country vibe, which establishes the mood and setting of the song. The song generally stays constant in tempo and intensity; at the end. the instrumental plays on for a few minutes after the lyrics end, bringing a soothing finish and fade to the EP. Hippo Campus has outdone itself. The EP returns the band to the more authentic acoustic sound of its old albums, while taking the experience of producing landmark and using manufactured sounds. While I enjoy the landmark album, I feel like “warm glow” is the sound the band was looking for, and I hope they continue down this avenue of music styles.

‘Dunkirk’ misses the front lines RATING: (out of five emojis)

seeing in movies. Furthermore, some might find “Dunkirk” to be unappealBY SUHAS SHEKAR ing because it doesn’t appear to have “Dunkirk” is a thriller war film any relatable characters. However, based on the Dunkirk evacuthis seems to be an intentionation, an event during World al direction the movie takes to War II which involved the eshighlight the event itself, rathcape of over 333,000 British soler than any particular person. diers trapped by German forces. I thought this decision MOVIE While Through captivating audial and detracted from the experience, REVIEW I can appreciate the intentions visual means, the film attempts to immerse the audience in an behind this choice. experience that emulates the susThere were some areas which I felt penseful and abrupt nature of war. were confusing to follow along during “Dunkirk” is not a typical war film. the movie. For instance, the movie It contains little blood and gore and presents one general time span, but lacks the character and plot develop- cycles through three different perment that people are accustomed to spectives. I thought that the tran-

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sitions between these perspectives were hard to keep track of and that there was little indication of when the movie was initially presenting a new point of view. Visually, the majority of the scenes were appealing. Moments such as the dogfights became even more captivating to view when combined with the exceptional audio. Though admittedly, the audio is deafeningly loud at many points. On another note, I felt that the music was well implemented and helped present the tones of varying scenes. Ultimately, the direction of “Dunkirk”’s narrative structure holds the largest influence over its enjoy-

Courtesy of Warner Bros

A scene from ‘Dunkirk’ depicts a mass group of soldiers in a tense situation.

ability. This movie will likely appeal to those who appreciate the focus on the Dunkirk evacuation. However, I feel that many might find the audio

and visual effects to be superb, but simply won’t find the presentation of the plot to be as captivating.

September 2017

Varsity Football team kicks off season with homecoming win by shreeya aranake hope do

The MHS Varsity Football team has gotten off to a strong start, according to Head Varsity Football Coach Kelly King. With a record of 5-0, the team, comprised mostly of returning athletes, is meeting the coaches’ higher expectations, King said. “We started out well, we’re playing well, we’re looking to improve,” King continued. “We’re always trying to build our standards and get better.” The Frosh-Soph team is playing well, as they have been building on the skills they are being taught, King said. The coaches are happy with them, King continued. After the Varsity Football team won the homecoming game, Assistant Coach Rey Elzey was pleased with the way the varsity team played, Elzey said. Elzey looks for-

ward to getting back to work and getting ready for the Varsity team’s next opponent, Elzey continued. In order to improve, the team needs to work on the little things, such as taking care of the ball better, Elzey added. During the homecoming game, the Varsity team stuck to the game plan and the win was thanks to a great team effort, Varsity Captain Tyree Bracy said. Based on their homecoming game performance, there is always room to improve, and all the team has to do is take it one week at a time, Bracy continued. The team has been playing well so far this season, Varsity Running Back Tariq Bracy said. The Varsity tam is more communicative, and are constantly learning from their mistakes, Tariq continued. The Varsity Football team has been working together well this year, he added.

Tuni Fifita (9) and Mozes Gurrola (58) celebrate during the homecoming game. The Varsity Football team went on to win the game against Saratoga 62-7.

Water Polo gets a breath of air Girls team gets new coach by grace Chang Kelly Lue

Water polo season has officially started off with new hopes and a positive outlook on the upcoming season. According to Eman Ghoreyshi, the new Girls JV and Varsity water polo coach, the girls team is better than last year. “It’s a new program for the most part and the girls have improved much more from last year,” said Ghoreyshi. However, a new year comes with new challenges for the team. “One challenge was having them break bad habits that they were doing in the past,” said Ghoreyshi. “Water polo is an aggressive sport and they are starting to learn that.” Ghoreyshi shares his thoughts about coaching here at MHS. “The school is great; I really enjoy it,” said Ghoreyshi. “It’s definitely a different culture.” With a new coach for both Girls JV and Varsity, the water polo team seems to be improving, according to Senior Calla Punsalang, member of the Girls Varsity water polo team.

"One challenge was having them break bad habits that they were doing in the past. Water polo is an aggressive sport and they are starting to learn that" Girls' Water Polo Coach Eman Ghoreyshi “Water polo is going well,” said Punsalang. “Our new coach has been going over plays and helping us improve as a team with both JV and Varsity.” She hopes that they can improve on their strategy this season and use that to hopefully win a couple games.

JV girls have won their first game this season against Santa Clara, according to Punsalang. “They have improved a bunch and are able to hold their own against strong teams, said Punsalang. “I hope they continue to grow and win more games." Showing the same optimism, Junior Anthony Nguyen, Co-Captain of the Boys Varsity water polo team, shares his anticipation and goals for this season. “So far this year, water polo has been a pretty fun experience,” said Nguyen. “There are a lot of new players this year and it's been both exciting and relieving watching them learn the game.” According to Nguyen, they have played against Santa Teresa, Saratoga, Cupertino, Fremont, Mountain View, Wilcox, and Santa Clara. Junior Scotty Gomez, also a member of the Boys Varsity Team, shares his plan for the season. According to Gomez, he has been looking forward to their first win since water polo began. Besides looking forward to their first win, Gomez enjoys his time with the team. “My favorite part about water polo is probably the team and everyone in it because they are all cool people and are the most important part of water polo,” said Gomez. Punsalang enjoys getting to know her teammates and bonding over wins, losses, and fun practices. “My favorite thing would have to be how complex the game is. Most see it as just swimming after the ball, but there are so many mechanics that go behind it that makes the game so much fun,” said Punsalang.

SPORTS

THE UNION

Girls Cross Country begins with a running start by ananya donapati jerald mendoza

The 2017 MHS Cross Country season has begun, and the team has been performing very well so far, Head Coach Bridget Hall said. It’s definitely a bigger team than that of last year, consisting of between 70 to 75 athletes total, she said. The coaching staff has good chemistry Hall said. The new coach has been helping the team out very much, she said. “We've welcomed a new coach, Coach Kang, and he's fitting right in and giving lots of helpful advice,” Hall said. “I think that he's definitely being an asset to

the team.” This year’s team is one of the most talented in a long time, Hall said. The team has prospects of going far in league competition, Hall added. “I think that our ladies’ team is very strong this year. They're the strongest women's team we've had on the MHS campus in probably 15 years so that's very exciting,” Hall said. “On our gentlemen's side, we have a young and upcoming team so that's very exciting to see as well.” The girl’s team has high expectations for their performance this year, Hall said. The team performed well last

year, so this year’s team should go even further than last, she continued. “I definitely think our girl's team is going to make it to CCS as a whole,” Hall said. “Our team almost qualified at large for CCS last year, so our girl's team will definitely qualify at least large if not the top half of the league for CCS.” CCS stands for Central Coast Sectionals and refers to the seasonal competition between the best teams in the section. The team has only run a few meets this month and the schedule is sparse at the start of the season, Hall said. “Cross Country is a little slow going into the season. October is really our big meet month," Hall said.

Girls Tennis team focus on bouncing back by Katherine Hubeny

This year, the girls’ tennis team is creating strong team bonds, but still needs to improve their performance, according to Varsity Tennis Coach Dong Pham. The team should try to improve to become as high level as the rest of the teams in the division, Pham added. The team has had six games so far, Pham said. Some of the teams they have played against are Valley Christian, Lynbrook, and Wilcox, he said. The team so far has only beat Wilcox 4-3, Pham said. “It’s fun right now,” Pham said, “We’re not doing what we’re supposed to be to doing compared to the last couple of years, and our girls are not as strong like last school year.” The team has fourteen players and all of the players are always improving, Pham explained. To improve more throughout the season the girls should work harder to be on par with the other schools,

Pham continued. “So far they work very well together,” Pham said. “But like I say, they need a lot of improved technique, so that’s my job to get them to play better.” The tennis season has been going alright, said Doubles Player Jessie Chang. The team has a couple of losses so far, but having faith in each other really makes it all worth it. “We were all there supporting her, so every time she switched sides we would like talk to her and encourage her,” Chang said. “It warmed my heart because I saw how close we were getting to each other.” Despite the team’s losses, the girls are still looking to improve, Chang explained. The coach does not have faith in the team and sometimes criticizes them, but having faith in each other really helps, she continued. “We were at the Wilcox game, and our coach basically criticized us like, 'How can you lose to this team?'" Chang said. " Shreeya was like the last

point and then if she won, we would win. We were all there supporting her so every time she switched sides we would talk to her and encourage her, and I just felt like she was warmed from my heart because I saw how closer were getting to each other and what I like most about tennis is that we get closer to each and not winning or losing". Tennis practice has been very enjoyable and has brought up her spirits when she was having a bad day, according to Singles Four Player Amritha Deshpande. Every game, she tries her best and tries to improve faster, Deshpande said. “For me, in general, I think it’s been really good,” Deshpande said. “Because there are a lot of people that support each other this year, and coaches are very encouraging, and tennis in general is very fun.” The season has been going okay so far, according to Girls’ Tennis Manager Ivan Chan. But in order to really improve, the girls need a little more motivation, he added.

T HE U NION

SEPTEMBER 2017

NEWS

2017 ADVANCED PLACEMENT SCORES Subject

Total

Biology

Calculus AB

180

Calculus BC

Chemistry

Chinese Language and Culture

Computer Science A

English Literature and Composition

Human Geography

Macroeconomics

Microeconomics

Music Theory

Physics 1

Physics C: Mechanics

Psychology

187

Spanish Language and Culture

Statistics

129

Studio Art: Drawing Portfolio

United States Government and Politics

138

United States History

World History

183

Percent of Total Exams

26%

25%

23%

19%

CAMPUS: MHS responds to crowding FROM PAGE 1 tle,” Downum said. “And it’s just totally true that when it’s the first time doing something little things break, and you have to figure out how to get around them.” It’s frustrating to have to walk all the way across the street, according to Junior Anvi Brahmbhatt. It gets annoying to have to walk all the way across the street from the L building, Brahmbhatt continued. “I just think it’s a pain walking over there,” Brahmbhatt said. “It is like a nicer facility, but I feel like they should have made it more convenient for us and just kept it on campus.” Walking to the X building is not that bad, according to Senior Neil Sadhukhan. The only problem is the loss of four minutes of class time because sometimes the students get out late, he continued. “[Walking to the campus] is not too bad,” Sadhukhan said. “Because of the four minutes of grace given to us, it’s not an issue to get there on time.” The overcrowding is a serious issue, according to Senior Rachel Chiang. Sending students to the X building takes time away from students and is generally a bad idea, she explained. “It’s really kind of shady to be sending kids off campus for classes like this,” Chiang said. “There’s the liability if someone gets hit by a car, and it just makes the whole ‘strictly closed campus’ thing a bit hypocritical.” There’s no space and the campus does not have enough classrooms for the teachers at this point, Rojas said. The school is at its largest population fluctuation around 3,300, he said.

“I would like to see us looking at maybe just four portable classrooms that we could place over the old pool that would alleviate [the overcrowding],” Rojas said. “Again, that would cost a lot of money, but that does alleviate the overcrowding just temporarily.” Jordan has heard around the community that members want to do something about the overcrowding at MHS, she said. The district is looking to pass a bond to put it on the ballot for June of 2018, where a big piece of it would be to add more classrooms at MHS, Jordan said. “Let’s say they say yes; then from there, hopefully, we would then start seeing changes within that first year at the various sites and start seeing some building going on at the high school,” Jordan said. “And then hopefully by 2026, we would have some new structures in place.” The overcrowding at MHS blocks students from opportunities, according to Senior Winnie Diep. High school is the time students start working toward their dreams, and the classes students take reflect this, but many students are prevented from taking the AP classes they want because they are too full, she explained. “The district already has enough elementary schools as is, and with the growing numbers in population--like 2021’s class is second biggest this year, I think--MHS can’t possibly hold all the students,” Diep said. “If we just opened up another high school, it would allow people more opportunities to do what they want.”

Hope Do | THE UNION

The Advanced Placement (AP ) scores for 2017 are shown above. In total, MHS students took 1,331 AP exams administered by the College Board. Student AP Score data was provided by Assistant Principal Jennifer Hutchison.

Eight MHS students qualify as NMSQT Semifinalists BY ANANYA DONAPATI

MHS has eight students that were named National Merit Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) earlier this September, according to Principal Francis Rojas. The semifinalist names are Phi-Long Bui, Ivan Chan, Isaac Chang, Brandon Cho, Hope Do, Simwon Seok, Samik Shrotriya, and Lawrence Su, he said. They are all seniors who scored at a certain level on the PSAT, Rojas explained. They will be sending in their applications for a chance to receive a scholarship, he said. “We’re really proud of them,” Rojas said. “I met with them early last week

and congratulated them. I [also] gave them the letter from NMSC.” The semifinalists have to go online and apply, Rojas explained. Once that is submitted, their counselor will verify the information and send supporting documentation, he said. “The district sent out a press release about it as well,” Rojas stated. “Hopefully we will hear in a couple of months if any of our Trojans made it all the way to the end.” It was like a confidence boost because once senior year began, it has been very stressful, Senior Simwon Seok said. But now it’s even more so, because there are additional essays to write., she said. “The practice tests really do help a lot so you’re familiar with it [the

PSAT],” Seok Said. “To be honest, when I took it I wasn’t expecting myself to get it at all.” It does not really have an effect right now, Senior Ivan Chan said. Until the scholarship winners are announced, it just does not matter, he said. “If I get the scholarship, then I’ll be happy,” Chan stated. “I mean, I just did okay on a test.” It is important to manage time well during the PSAT, Senior Hope Do stated. Ensure that no answers are left blank since there is no penalty for wrong answers, she added. “I’m just happy that I was able to make it into the semifinalist round,” Do said. “I went into the test knowing that it would determine my eligibility but I never expected to make it.”

AERIES: Students and faculty are ambivalent over change FROM PAGE 1 lene Nguyen said. This also makes it exceedingly difficult for students to know where to find their assignments, she said. “I guess it’s more in depth than School Loop, but it’s less convenient,” Nguyen said. “Teachers are confused about how to post homework and tell students where they are.” A pleasant surprise about the use of

Aeries is that more teachers use it to post students’ grades, Senior Melanie Chen said. There are fewer teachers who don’t post on Aeries than there were for School Loop, she said. “The nice thing about Aeries is that I don’t know any teachers that refuse to use it,” Chen said. “So all the students can see their grades.” Aeries just isn’t as convenient as

School Loop, Senior Chris Bui said. There’s a lot more going on on the website that is distracting for the students, he said. “I miss School Loop because it gave me a chance to easily access my attendance and the school announcements through the mail,” Bui said. “I feel like with Aeries, I’m a lot less informed. Less is more, I suppose.”

Rojas introduces new announcement of morning Pledge of Allegiance BY ANANYA DONAPATI

The Pledge of Allegiance has become a new tradition in the daily announcements at MHS, Principal Francis Rojas said. Introduced on the first day of this school year, this practice was implemented by Rojas due to his habit of participating in it at his previous school district., he stated.

An the education code states that public schools must perform daily patriotic actions, Rojas explained. The pledge is something that should be done because this school is funded by the people and the government. “And at my last school, we always did the pledge at the beginning of the announcements,” Rojas said. “So I did it out of habit--I believe there’s a value in doing the pledge,” he explained. It came as a surprise to hear the

Pledge of Allegiance, Math Teacher Denise Cosgrove said. If the school is going to implement this policy, all the teachers should be on the same page and all students should be standing she said. “It’s not just an optional thing,” Cosgrove said. “I understand that there are other classes and other teachers who are not standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and I think that’s disrespectful.”

Jerald Mendoza | THE UNION

Senior Steven Ong and Junior Luke Ren hold hand-made posters as they enthusiastically encourage students to sign up for Key Club at CLOG Rush.

Annual fall CLOG Rush attracts students BY JERALD MENDOZA

MHS held the first Club and Organization (CLOG) Rush of the school year from Tuesday, Aug. 29 to Thursday Aug. 31 during lunch. Chartered CLOGs were given space on the green to advertise themselves to recruit new members, CLOG Commissioner Maggie Ly said. CLOG Rush is a welcoming way of introducing students to all the groups and activities the school has to offer, Ly said. Students get a chance to meet people and try new things they might not have signed up for otherwise, she continued. “With the amount of spirit and friendliness exuded from the CLOGs approaching new faces,” Ly said. “It really comforts new students from the get-go to know that school can be enjoyable if you make it to be. It’s also a way for students to explore new interests and hobbies.” The environment of CLOG Rush this year was energetic and enthusiastic, Key Club President Ziyuan Lei said. CLOG Rush was a great way to recruit people, and it was enjoyable overall, she said. “I felt like the atmosphere this year was really lively with all the clubs in high spirits,” Lei said. “I’m very happy with the amount of members we were

able to recruit and appreciate everyone that signed up! Every individual makes a huge difference in giving back to the community.” However there was an issue of overcrowding during CLOG Rush, Sophomore Marissa Clarke said. It was difficult navigating the crowds to sign up for the right clubs, she said. “I felt it was a bit overwhelming since all the clubs were all crammed on the green,” Clarke said. “I couldn’t find the clubs I wanted to join.” The overcrowding issue is a problem for students who might be shyer or dislike crowds, Senior Chris Bui said. Not everyone is attracted to flashy decorations, he said. “I feel that crowded stands repel people who haven’t found their way yet,” Bui said. “Same with overly spirited stands, it kind of drives away shyer people.” The Academic Student Body (ASB) has been working on fixing the issue of crowds, Ly said. Ideas have been discussed on how to manage it, and CLOG input is important in deciding, Ly said. “We actually spaced the tables out by a lot this year compared to previous years,” Ly said. “There’s also been conversation about making CLOG Rush 4 days long to allow smaller groups of CLOGs to have more space each day.”