Saint Thomas Aquinas High School |
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The Shield April 2016
The Who’s Next Issue Staff Pages / 2 Letter from the Editor / 3 Editorial / 4
The Reports
Forever Saints Prom Photos on Page 6.
Gallery / 6 24/7 Saint / 8 Calling it Quits / 11 Saint Goes Abroad / 16 Honors Expectations / 18 Out of Many One / 20 Cafteria Crunch / 21 Future of Prom / 22 Participation Ponts / 23 PE Credit / 24
The Spreads
Teacher & Student PetPeeves / 28 Social / 30 Survey Spread / 32
The Back Pages
Another One / 36 Talkin’ Baseball / 39 All Out for Wigs Out / 40 Food Review / 42 Icebreaker / 44 Last Look / 46 Calendar / 48
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield MISSION STATEMENT The Shield is a newspaper sponsored by Saint Thomas Aquinas High School and produced by its students to provide information, entertainment, and open forum, as well as a learning experience for its staff members. The goal of The Shield’s staff is to meet professional journalism standards. Staff members are responsible for the content of the newspaper and strive to report news accurately, objectively, and completely. The Shield is an open forum for student expression and aims to communicate the concerns of the student body as well as the faculty, staff, and Aquinas community ADVERTISING The Shield sells advertisements to help with publication costs. All ads will be subject to the same scrutiny as stories. The Shield will not print any obscenities or any ads promoting products illegal to those under the age of 18. For advertising, please call (913) 319-2460, send an email to mhallauer@stasaints.net, or visit www.stasaints.net/shield SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions to The Shield are $3 per issue. Subscriptions can be sent to Saint Thomas Aquinas High School c/o Matt Hallauer. Digital subscriptions are free and sent via email monthy. Orders can be sent to newspaper@stasaints.net LETTER POLICY Letters may be accepted by The Shield, provided that they are signed and do not contain libelous statements. The Shield reserves the right to edit the letters for grammar, obscenity, or space consideration, and also reserves the right to not print a letter.
The Shield Saint Thomas Aquinas High School
11411 Pflumm Road Overland Park, KS 66215 913-319-2460
issue 9 volume 28 Editor-in-Chief Alex Kinnan
Adviser Matt Hallauer
Managing Editor Daniel Petracek
Reporters Annie Gellott Hagan Marozas Ansley Reynolds Seth Walker
Senior Editors Olivia Rode Connor Ragan Alex Wagner Copy Editor Ellie Heit Social Media Editors Connor Ragan Olivia Rode
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April 2016
Déjà vu In this issue we will honor some sophomores whose stories proved newsworthy. Two years ago, I wrote “Big Brother is Watching You,” a story that brought to light the radical changes to Aquinas student privacy with the BYOD program. I was only a sophomore and had written the story for my Journalism Composition class, then former editors chose my story to be featured in The Shield, and my love for journalism at Aquinas has grown ever since. Following the tradition of the April issue, we will be highlighting some very special sophomores whose J-Comp stories have made them worthy to be apart of these pages. Their reports were chosen among their entire J-comp class, and the level of reporting their stories feature is of the same caliber and quality as any piece that would appear in this newspaper. I hope you enjoy the
reporting from their fresh eyes. Along with these exciting newcomers, our regular staff is also taking a look at the important topic of student privacy ( 24/7 Saint, Page 8) and the perils of living in the social media generation (Quitting Social Media, 12). Aquinas is made better by its students, and how we treat each other truly sends ripple effects. The seniors who chose my story just two short years ago saw potential in me and to them I am forever thankful. This issue is dedicated to the hard-working sophomores in this issue, I see potential in you and your ambition inspires me, despite the fact that I am suffering from crippling senioritis.
Alex Kinnan Editor-in-Chief The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
3
Countdown
3
Days to Spring Olympics
29
Days to Graduation
62
Days to end of regular school year
On the cover
Photo courtesy Michele Gress. Junior Sam Gasparovich Runs into prom on April 2.
Awards
In 2015, The Shield was named a First Class publication by the National Scholastic Press Association with Marks of Distinction for coverage, content, writing and editing.
Recycle
When finished with your Shield, the best thing you can do is recycle it and reduce the demand on the world’s landfills.
We’re not done yet!
Our senior issue comes out next month with a tribute to the class of 2016.
April 2016
Editorial
Let Baseball Matter BY THE SHIELD STAFF
Game days are a sacred tradition in high school. In the fall, football dominates the evenings, and in the winter, basketball packs the gym, but in the spring, game days don’t exist and student community dwindles because of this. The Saint Thomas Aquinas baseball team deserves to be where students official game days in the spring. According to a recent Shield survey, 76 percent of students would attend baseball games regularly if it was given the same treatment as basketball and football. Baseball games need larger seating areas, fan engagement opportunities and concessions to help increase student attendance. The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield calls on the athletic department to make the necessary changes to the baseball facilities
to encourage fan attendance. The Shield also calls on the students to build momentum and attend games regularly. Baseball is a timeless tradition in Kansas City. It should be one at Aquinas, too. “More students would be attracted to baseball games if it got similar attention as basketball and football. Most of the games are held in the middle of the week which hurts our crowds but that’s just how high school baseball works,” senior pitcher/outfielder Alex Riedel said. Two years ago, the Saints won the state championship and last year came just short of going, losing only to Blue Valley West in substate. The team’s competitive edge makes games gripping for fans. Senior first baseman Grant Elias says, “I think our home games are a great opportunity for
all STA students. The games are hotly contested, and every player even has his own walk-up song this year. It’s pretty hype.” Aquinas is home to a strong student community, which is why using that to make baseball games spring’s official game day a no-brainer.
Check out our extended report on this topic in “Talkin’ Baseball” on page 39.
Do you have a issue you want The Shield to take a stand on? Email us at newspaper@stasaints.net and we may make it our next editorial.
How The Shield Staff Voted
This editorial is the opinion of the majority of The Shield Staff. Below is a breakdown of the staff’s opinion on this issue.
YES I agree
14 Voted
15
1 Voted
Total Voting Staff Members
4
NO I disagree
The Reports What’s inside 11 14
8
Quitting Social Media
24/7 Saint
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Honors Expectations
Picture Perfect Senior Duron Lowe snaps a selfie on the dance floor at Prom on April 2. Photo by Annie Toussaint | The Medallion
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At the Mercy of the Handbook
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Out of Many, One
A Saint Going Abroad
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Cafeteria Crunch
Saints 24/7
Contrary to the area’s public high schools, the Aquinas’ administrative scope of authority is much more prominent.
BY BECCA HAEUSSER
April 2016 Over spring break,
some Aquinas students traveled far and wide while others stayed on their couches and watched Netflix. But while students were free from the everyday grind of school, they were still representing Aquinas. “We expect our students to represent STA outside school, as well as in school,” Principal of Student Services Mike Sullivan said. “The best way I could explain it would be you can’t turn on and off your morals and values once you leave school.” The week after spring break, a couple of students were removed from the track team due to their actions over spring break.
“The policy for the track & field team is that anyone using or promoting alcohol or drugs will be dismissed from the team,” Head Track Coach Justin Wrigley said. “There is no room for these things in our team culture.” While some may believe this policy to be a little extreme, it is up to the individual coach to make decisions regarding alcohol and drug abuse. “I believe very strongly that our policy does have a positive influence on both the success of our programs and the health and success of the individual students,” Wrigley said. “I care greatly about the safety of our kids. If kids are using alcohol
Courtesy of the Olathe School District website
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and drugs then they are putting themselves at risk.” Athletes are not the only ones subject to these guidelines. The Aquinas Student Handbook states “students should refrain from any illegal and immoral activity on or off school property at all times.” As a private institution, Aquinas has fewer restrictions on how it disciplines than a public school. Since Aquinas is a private institution, administration can enforce stricter policies. Sullivan put it this way: “If you don’t like our policies, then leave.” Aquinas administration, though they won’t go looking for it, will hold students accountable for anything
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield posted onto social media. “Social media is monitored by all members of the STA family,” Sullivan said. “If something on social media is not appropriate, it is sent to my office or Officer Ufford depending on the severity.” These rules are put in place, according to the handbook, to help students become “empowered to make responsible choices concerning all aspects of their lives.” “Basically, kids that do the right things can keep their privacy,” said President Bill Ford.
Courtesy of the Olathe School Dis-
trict website
Junior Becca Haeusser is a freelance reporter for The Shield. This story was edited by Daniel Petracek.
Courtesy of the Saint Thomas Aquinas Handbook No, never Yes, If the behavior reflects badly on the school Yes, If it is a legal issue Yes, Always
Should Aquinas administration care about the outside-of-school behavior of students? Courtesy The Shield’s April Student Survey.
Results will not always equal 100, as students have the option to not answer questions
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Calling it Quits
The social media generation is becoming sick of its own obsession BY MIA POWER & EZRI KILLEEN
43% 27% 20% 9%
51%
1 to 2 hours
23%
2 to 4 hours
21%
less than 1 hour my whole life
other
Time spent on social media per day
5%
Favorite social media platform
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
Courtesy of The Shield’s April Student Survey.
Results will not always equal 100, as students have the option to not answer questions.
It’s more than just a habit.
It’s a reflex. You get home from school and immediately start catching up on what happened on Twitter during the day. While you’re waiting in line at Chipotle, you tap the Snapchat app and scroll through stories. You’re doing your homework and between math problems you open Instagram and start doubletapping. All of that time spent on social media really adds up. According to a recent Shield survey, over 40 percent of students at Aquinas estimate that they between one to two hours per day on social media. 27 percent said they spend between two to four hours. In a world where students juggle school, homework, sleep, sports and a million other activities, it seems crazy for them to be spending so
much time with their eyes locked on their phone. But social media is a hard habit to break.
“I found myself spending a lot of time on homework and figured that I should try save time by not being distracted by social media.” Jada Rezac Sophomore
According to a recent Shield survey, Snapchat is the most popular platform among the Saints. 92 percent of students said they used the platform, and 50 percent said it was their favorite. Coming in second
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The Reports
was Instagram, with 87 percent of students using the application and 23 percent saying it was their favorite. Some students at Aquinas this year saw the annual tradition of giving up something for Lent as an opportunity to break the habit. Sophomores Devin Diggs and Jada Rezac both said they gave up social media because it was something that took up a lot of their time. “I knew it would be a good sacrifice for me because I spend a lot of time on social media and I thought it would help me get my homework done more quickly,” Diggs said. Rezac shared similar sentiments, “I found myself spending a lot of time on homework and figured that I should try to save time by not being distracted by social media.
april 2016
Which social media platforms do you use?
35%
37%
6%
93%
89%
84%
3%
34%
1% Courtesy of The Shield’s April Student Survey.
Results will not always equal 100, as students have the option to not answer questions.
Both students said that life without social media was an adjustment. They both had times when they would go to open an app, only to remember that they’d deleted it. As time progressed, though, they got used to not having the distraction. Although it may seem like our whole lives are on social media, not being on social media didn’t keep to students too far out of the loop. People seem to forget that
most of social media is inane and doesn’t matter. “One Monday I came to school and there was an overwhelming amount of people saying ‘Daaamn Daniel’ and I had no clue what was happening so I had to be informed of the popular Twitter video,” Rezac said. Other than that, she said she didn’t feel too left out. Maybe social media isn’t as important as some make it out to be. Students who gave up social
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media for Lent got more done and didn’t miss it all that much. If the trend of giving up social media for Lent continues, maybe the students of Aquinas will change for the better. Juniors Ezri Killeen and Mia Power are freelance reporters for the Shield. This story was edited by Alex Kinnan and Connor Ragan.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
At the Mercy of the Handbook Aquinas students have less personal freedom than their public school counterparts. BY ALEX KINNAN
Our country prides itself on the unalienable rights citizens are given through the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. However, American students give a lot up the moment they set foot into school. The Latin phrase in loco parentis, meaning “in place of parents,” is how schools (public and private) are able to discipline students for exercising actions like “freedom of speech,” according to the American Civil Liberties Union. However, when comparing public schools to private schools in terms of rights, private school administrators have much more free reign in what they can restrict. Private K-12 schools govern students under “contract law” which says that students must follow rules set by the school. Students sign away most of their civil liberties when they decide to attend private school. Saint Thomas Aquinas is no different. According to Principal of Student Services Michael Sullivan, students are monitored under the concept of “reasonable suspicion.” This basically says that if a student is misbehaving or is breaking school rules, the administration can
open an investigation. “If you are doing the right thing and following the rules, your privacy is secure,” Sullivan said. Because contract law allows private school administrators to determine rules for their students, even between Bishop Miege and Aquinas the rules may vary. According to Miege’s handbook, “devices will be taken, apps and contents will be reviewed by
“If you don’t want us to see it, you shouldn’t be doing it” Michael Sullivan Principal of Student Services administration, and violators are subject to possible suspension and other discipline action.” At Aquinas, the taking of students’ phones by teachers is not procedure but “sometimes it is the only option,” Sullivan said. It is suggested teachers write the student up and make them take it
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The Reports
back to their locker. Students who are suspected of breaking school rules do run the risk of having their devices searched, according to Sullivan. The ability to review student Internet history is available if necessary. “If you don’t want us to see it, you shouldn’t be doing it,” Sullivan said. According to a Shield survey, 54 percent of students do not think a teacher should be able to take a student’s phone or device under any circumstances. Since the implementation of BYOD, students have become aware of administration’s eye on them. Only 18 percent of students said they do not think Aquinas staff monitors their internet use. Despite the clear limits in personal freedom at Aquinas, its high standard for its students is a reason that parents end up choosing it over public schools. “We are building good Catholic leaders at Aquinas,” Sullivan said. “That requires us to hold students accountable 24/7.” Senior Alex Kinnan, @alexkinnan on Twitter, is The Shield’s editor-in-chief. This story was edited by Ellie Heit.
April 2016
What Saints Said.
Courtesy The Shield’s April Student Survey, sent to all students via e-mail. 329 students responded.
Should a teacher be able to take a student’s phone or device? Yes, whenever the teacher sees a reason. 4.3%
Yes, but only for due cause 41.3%
No, never. 54.4%
What do Aquinas staff and administrators do? I think our internet history is monitored. I think our emails are read. I think the staff looks at our social media accounts. I think they look at things when they hear of a problem. I believe staff respects our privacy even if they have the ability.
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The Reports
Saint to Study Abroad
The seniors aren’t the only ones going off to college next year.
BY KAT SCHARTZ
April 2016 There will be one less familiar face in SMC during the 20162017 school year. Saint Thomas Aquinas English teacher Kristi Nourie is leaving the halls of Aquinas for the University of Cambridge to earn her Master of Philosophy degree, the first step toward earning a PhD. However, this is not the last year Nourie will teach at Aquinas. “I will be back for the 2017-18 school year,” Nourie said. “There is a required one year break between The first year of the program and the following three years. It’s entirely possible that a person could finish the first year of the program and not be accepted to the last three. You go through the first year of the program and get a much better feel for what conducting original research would look like and decide that’s not for you.” The departure of Nourie and English Department Chairwoman Sue Waters will bring change in the Saint Thomas Aquinas English department. Prince of Peace eighth grade English teacher Andrew Lee has been hired to teach Honors English IV in the upcoming school year. With regard to a replacement for herself, Nourie said, “It is my understanding that they are looking to hire a second teacher, but I do not know that the administration has committed itself to hiring a second person.” Nourie has been looking at going back to school for three to four years, but she could never seem to find the one program that really stood out and appealed to her. She decided in the summer
of 2015 that it was time, and she began her application to Cambridge in early September. Nourie said, “I thought, the worst thing that can happen is they take my $75 application fee and they tell me no. I can live with that.”
“I have chosen the educational leadership and school improvement track. What I liked about Cambridge was that within the track they accepted teachers, it wasn’t just an administrative track. I have no interest in being in administrator. That is so far out of my realm.” Kristi Nourie English teacher She heard back from the university on December 15, informing her she made it through the first round of the application process. She was asked to write a critique over a twelve-page article and submit two other pieces of writing within seven days. “That was during the week of finals. So I had to write finals, and there was a Star Wars marathon at school that Saturday that my husband and I had already made a date to come see,” Nourie said, “I’d also never written an article
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The Reports
critique before, and I had no idea what that was going to look like. So there was not a lot of sleeping that week, but I got everything done.” On February 1, Nourie received an email inviting her to an interview, which would take place on February 11 over Skype in the SMC conference room. One week later on February 18, she had been accepted to the program. “I have chosen the educational leadership and school improvement track. What I liked about Cambridge was that within the track they accepted teachers, it wasn’t just an administrative track.” Nourie explained. “I have no interest in being in administrator. That is so far out of my realm. But I believe strongly that teachers are leaders within their schools, within their departments, and within the communities they create within their hallways, and we need to work more. We need to work together to create those communities and foster that leadership.” Nourie’s future as an educator is bright. “I don’t have any reason not to want to be at Aquinas and continue teaching. But, if I were to leave, I would want to go to a university and work with early career teachers and people who are studying to become teachers. I would want to be the methods teacher for English, or be a literacy instructor, as my master’s degree is in literacy studies and I work a lot with reading.” Junior Kat Schartz is a freelance reporter for The Shield. This story was edited by Ellie Heit.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
The Expectation of Honors Is there really a difference between honors and regular classes? BY ELLIE HEIT In a place like Saint Thomas Aquinas, academic also have a huge role when it comes to what classes excellence isn’t just an expectation; it’s a way of life. their student takes. Every day, students try to hold themselves to the “[My parents] would rather me be in honors classes, standards of the school, but are the students who but they trust my decisions,” Lane said. are putting themselves on the highest level really “My parents don’t care what classes I’m in as long learning more? as I get good grades,” senior Mitchell Jansen said. In a recent survey sent out by The Shield, 83.7 Some students uphold themselves to their own percent of respondents agreed that honors class are expectations. at least noticeably harder than its regular counterpart. “I take honors classes because I want to be However, this is not necessarily the case for all classes. challenged and take classes with student’s that are very “I usually just take honors similar to be academically,” classes for the five extra senior Jack Lind said. “I take regular classes if I am not a percent,” junior Colin Connor “I definitely feel like there said. “They aren’t really different are higher expectations to fan of that subject and if I struggle than regular classes.” learn all the material at a with it.” “I take honors classes so faster pace in honors, rather I can get college credit and so than taking your time to really that I can get a higher GPA,” understand it in a regular Katherine Lane junior Katherine Lane said. “I class,” sophomore Grace Junior take regular classes if I am not a Elbrader said. “I just feel like fan of that subject and struggle with regular classes there is with it.” less homework and less stress.” American History teacher Amy Person is new to The difference between honors and regular classes teaching both regular and honors classes. After teaching is not just a concern for students and their parents. at Aquinas over a decade ago, Person returned to The last time Person was at Aquinas, she only take the place of Stephanie Cloues as she went on taught honors classes. “It’s been an adjustment,” Person maternity leave. said. She said that while her regular classes are on the “It’s all about expectation,” Person said. “The same unit as her honors classes, there is a difference in challenge to me is to teach to the higher level and bring what is brought to the classroom. the lower level up.” For example, Person will not give out worksheets Expectations don’t just come from teachers. Parents as homework. “What’s the point in all of a sudden giving
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The Reports
April 2016
worksheet that someone is just going to copy the answers to and they don’t get anything out of it?” said Person. Instead, she allows students to turn in worksheets before the test, after giving them a proper amount of class time to complete them. “I think that it’s more about supplemental material in the regular classes,” Person said. “I feel like if I’m giving worksheets out as homeworks, I can go repetitively walk down the hall and see people copying [them].” Math teacher Kat Kennedy also believes in giving extra material. “Sometimes, the students in regular classes have a harder time remembering what they learned. It’s all about reinforcement, reinforcement, reinforcement,” Kennedy said. Kennedy teaches both honors and regular Algebra I, along with a math lab class. She also tries to make her classes as even as possible. “I use an online generator that estimates how long it will take a student in honors to do a problem versus how long it will take a student in regular,” Kennedy said. “I never give my students homework without doing the homework myself. That way I know which problems will be harder for them and which ones might take the longest.” Whether a student is in regular or honors, the consensus is clear: honors classes have a higher level of expectations despite what subject is being discussed.
Graphics based off 316 responses toThe Shield’s April survey.
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Senior Ellie Heit is the copy editor for The Shield. This story was edited by Daniel Petracek.
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I take mostly regular courses. 19
The Reports
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
Out of Many
BY CONNOR RAGAN
ONE
While the Saint Thomas Aquinas community is often involved in blood drives and annually celebrates “Wigs Out,” a donation of hair, few know about the appeal of bone marrow drives. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside some of the bones in the body, including the hip and thigh bones. Bone marrow contains immature cells, called stem cells. It is essential to the functionality of the human body, and when certain diseases are contracted, can begin to deteriorate. A person in need of bone marrow receives it in a similar way as to how they would receive blood, except that it is injected directly into the bone. Kelsey Beasley, class of 2014, was recently contacted by a local hospital with some life-changing
news. Beasley had registered to be a bone marrow donor while at Aquinas, but like most registrants, didn’t think it was likely that she would be selected.
“I was considered an exact match.” Kelsey Beasley Graduate, Class of ‘14
“I swabbed my cheek in high school just like everyone else,” said Beasley. “I was emailed a few months ago because I was considered an exact match to a patient needing a transplant.” She then went through the extensive process of a medical history
check, another test to make certain she was a match, and was finally deemed the right fit. “They called me to inform me that to give a bone marrow sample, they would fly me to St. Louis, to have the procedure done at [St. Louis University],” she explained. “I was openly willing to go.” Unfortunately, she was soon informed that the patient had undergone some complications and was unable to receive any transplants at the time. Beasley’s wait continued. Today, her name sits on a waiting list. Beasley is ready to donate her bone marrow to a needy recipient at a moment’s notice. Senior Connor Ragan, @csragan13 on social media, is a sports reporter and editor for The Shield. This story was edited by Becca Haeusser.
Image courtesy of Creative Commons.
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Februaury 2016
The Cafeteria Crunch
Treat America’s company policy affects the way students feel about their food. BY SETH WALKER Over the past few weeks at Aquinas, change has come to the lunchroom and students have noticed. However, students have not reacted positively to the change, but rather they have been outraged by the five ounce portion rule imposed on their fries, or the shrinking size of their cookies. Change in the cafeteria is something students might have to become more accustomed to as more of it may be coming this year or the next. Treat America’s corporate offices decided to
“The fries are expensive for how much they give you, so if im paying for my fries, I want the full amount because right now we are getting ripped off.” Nicole Corrigan Junior
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universalize the lunch’s that its cafeterias serve, and create a new guidelines book for their cooks to follow. This is supposed to ensure that the same lunch with the same portions is being served at all Treat America served high schools. When asked about the fries that she buys daily, junior Nicole Corrigan said, “The fries are expensive for how much they give you,so if im paying for my fires, I want the full amount because right now we are getting ripped off.” After hearing the student complaints Head Chef Brian Leeper said, “We want to feed you guys well, but we have to do our job.” The standard guidelines were supposed to be imposed early on in 2016, but were sidetracked and enacted three months late due to no particular reason. New rules may come into play starting next school year limiting food or taking items off the menu. Needless to say, Treat America’s health kick will be affecting Aquinas students for years to come. Junior Seth Walker, @SethWalker3 on Twitter, is a reporter for The Shield. This story was edited by senior Olivia Rode.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
The Future of Prom Future Prom venues major talking point between teachers and students. BY RACHEL RANEY To teenagers all over the country, Prom is the highlight of high school. There are many important aspects of Prom, with location being one of the most important details. Saint Thomas Aquinas has decided to change one of the favorite Prom venues. Union Station, was replaced by Arrowhead Stadium. This change caught students off guard, and rumors began to circulate about the cause of the venue replacement. The most talked about rumors were that parking was an issue and the vast open space at Union Station made sneaking away too easy for students. These rumors were put to rest in an interview with German teacher Bryan Thelen. “I don’t think it’s a problem with parking because there is a parking garage right there,” Said Thelen. “ As far as students sneaking off, we have teachers all around the area so I don’t think that would have been a problem either.”
Thelen also said issues,” said Ford. that the cost was a Although there were problem. many issues with Union President Bill Ford Station, it was an Aquinas confirmed that prices were favorite from the start. a major issue with hosting All these problems Prom at Union Station. assured Ford that things According to Ford, the price needed to change. Math to rent teachers out Union Margaret Station Ball and “Starlight is going was to be a problem now Casey getting Curran because they closed off began to higher each year. that stage and they are search for a “Every new Prom trying to be a 365 day venue, restroom we opened and came theater...” up cost us across money,” Arrowhead Bill Ford said Ford. Stadium. President Not Prom at only was the price of Union Arrowhead took place Station a problem, but so in a ballroom with large was security. Ford said windows showing a view of that for the past few years, the lit up field. Thelen and Union Station has been Ford both agreed it would slacking with their security. be a cool new experience “We were concerned for students. about security because The staff seem to like they said they would have the idea of Arrowhead, and people on sight, and they the students seem to have haven’t the last couple the same opinion. times. So with people In a recent survey, coming out of the restaurant when asked which Prom and people coming off the location they preferred,114 train, there was all kinds of students voted Arrowhead
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Stadium, 92 voted Union Station and 71 voted Starlight Theatre. Although most students love the idea of Arrowhead, Sam Salts, Aquinas graduate and current freshman at Kansas University said, “I really enjoyed Union Station for prom because it seemed very formal and it was cool because of what it means to Kansas City.” Not only is Union Station no longer an option, but Starlight might also be replaced. When asked about Starlight, Ford said, “Starlight is going to be a problem now because they closed off that stage and they are trying to be a 365 day theater and do stuff behind the stage. I don’t think they are going to rent out so we are probably going to have to look for a different spot.” Though Ford regrets having to change Starlight, he said they will continue to look for unique venues. Sophomore Rachel Raney is a Journalism Composition student. This story was chosen to be published by Shield staff members.
April 2016
Participation Grades Can Have Major Impact There are differing views on the effectiveness and purpose of participation points in the classroom. BY BRILEY MCGREEVY
Participation points make up to 20 percent of a student’s grade in certain classes at Saint Thomas Aquinas. Teacher’s viewpoints vary on if class participation points are beneficial to students. These points affect student’s GPA based off of their ability to speak publicly in front of their peers. Classes offering participation points grade students on daily class discussion, speeches, and presentations. Social studies teacher Mark Blaise does not agree with the teaching style of handing out participation points daily in class. “Being able to convey your ideas is a fundamental part of being an educated student and I believe that presentations are a very important part of school,” Blaise said.
“I think they gain skills they will use for the rest of their lives by learning how to research and organize their speech and get over their fear of speaking in public.” Kim Harrison Performing Arts Department Chairwoman
“That being said, I think that it is such an important life skill that it should be taught more instead of graded more.” Grading students based off of how well they have involved themselves in class reflects only effort, not intelligence. Some teachers at Saint Thomas Aquinas can agree that separating behavior and grades is imperative to maintain an objective grading style. Blaise views class participation points as a
glass, and once students have filled that glass with their required amount of participation, they are done for the day. Students are able to check out of class after they get their participation points out of the way, in which the goal of challenging students academically is lost. Some teachers agree that if the environment of the classroom is lively enough, teachers should not have to enforce participation. Student
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participation and public speaking should be taught not graded. “I think student’s GPA should be based off how well they know the information and how well they do on tests instead of how well they speak during a presentation or speech,” said senior Mady Snyder, “Not all students are at the same level of public speaking, so it is unfair to grade them based off something they can’t really control or don’t know how to.” Mady Snyder has had various classes offer participation points in her four years at Saint Thomas Aquinas. She strongly supports the grading system to be strictly based off of knowledge, not student ability to raise their hand and answer a few questions in class.
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“I think that it is such an important life skill that it should be taught more instead of graded more.” Mark Blaise social studies teacher Some teachers disagree and believe that speaking in front of an audience and being involved in conversation about a topic is a very necessary life skill vital for college and future student careers. In addition, enforcing a grade for student behavior and effort in class might compel students to take the class more seriously since it does affect their GPA. “I think they gain skills they will use for the rest of their lives by learning how to research and organize their speech and get over their fear of speaking in public,” said Kim Harrison, Performing Arts Department Chairwoman. 31% of teens in America have public speaking anxiety or some other form of social anxiety according to a study at the National Institute of Mental Health. “For those with social anxiety, they probably would not get 100%, but they would get a passing grade provided they participate some,” said theology teacher Barb Loughman.
Sophomore Briley McGreevy is a Journalism Composition student. This story was chosen to be published by Shield staff members.
Other schools offer PE credits to cheerleaders
PE teacher, academic principal understand the logic of giving credit to athletes but also see consequences BY ANNIE PATTON
forget. The athletes put in hard work The United States has a spot to exceed at what they do. close to the top of the most obese Rick Hetzel, a PE teacher and country rankings, with 78 million head girls basketball coach, and people considered obese. junior Lexi Cheray, a varsity softball Government and private player, agree that the level of activity organizations discourage this crisis for these sports greatly by educating the outweighs that of PE public about living “I don’t think class. They believed a healthy lifestyle. Physical education student athletes student athletes should is a requirement for necessarily should earn a credit of PE for participating in a sport. all schools to inform have to take PE.” Hetzel said the and instruct our future main purpose of PE generation about is to “get kids active, maintaining healthy Rick Hetzel teach them health” lifestyles. PE teacher and to provide a social PE teaches aspect. “I don’t think students useful skills to student athletes necessarily should” carry on with them throughout their have to take PE, Hetzel said, “the lives. One of the main objectives main reason would be the health is to get students active. However, aspect”. He said that there may be sports do that too. Saint Thomas Aquinas High School is known for its a way to adjust that requirement outstanding athletic achievements. and introduced online modules as a The 90 state championship banners potential option. hanging in the gym make it hard to
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April 2016
Photo by Alex Wager | The Shield Freshman Greta Bins throws a Frisbee during PE teacher Rick Hetzel’s first hour class Wednesday. Bins is also a cheerleader and a lacrosse player. If Bins was at Olathe Northwest or some other high schools, cheerleading would replace her PE credit.
Academic Principal Craig Moss said he does not see this happening. He does not disagree with the idea, but said that “PE is a state requirement” and “our school requires one full credit of the class to graduate.” Both Hetzel and Moss agreed that the social aspect of PE is important. “It’s such a great time to get to know somebody, especially as a freshman,” said Moss. However, joining a team meets that same need of introducing kids to others. The state of Kansas requires that all students
earn one credit of physical education. However, online courses are permitted and students “may earn physical education credits in this manner.” There is no fitness test protocol. Kansas schools such as Olathe Northwest put this option into their curriculum. Northwest sophomore cheerleader Lauren Rouse said, “I have not had to take PE since sixth grade because of cheer.” For them, cheerleading and dance count towards PE credit. To make up for her health requirement, she
said, “I had to take online health fourth quarter of my freshman year. It was on the side, all on our own.” Rouse said the makeup of her online course was “textbook online worksheets with unit tests and a final.” Without mandatory PE classes for athletes, there could be the possibility of more time for electives for the students, an increase in athletic program participation and a similar skill level in PE students without the athletic standouts controlling the games. Nonetheless, Hetzel expressed his concerns
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that athletes would not get to experience other sports outside of the ones they play if they chose to not participate in PE as an elective. He gave the example of a former student who set a school record in basketball who “could not hit a wiffle ball and could not even catch a ball with a glove.”
Sophomore Annie Patton is a Journalism Composition student. This story was chosen to be published by Shield staff members.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
Student: When they say no phones, but they have their own right in front of them.
Pet Teacher: Technology addiction.
Student: When they treat us like babies.
Teacher: Senioritis.
Student: Favoritism.
Student: When teachers listen to your conversations in the hallway and then try to get you in trouble for things you may or may not have said. Like if I’m not in your class, leave me alone please.
Teacher: Hypocrisy.
Teacher: Refusing to communicate. Students will whine and gossip to each other, but will not bring their concerns to the teacher. 28
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April 2016
Peeves BY ANNIE GELLOTT
Student: Giving homework on breaks.
Student: When they expect us to do homework, yet it takes them five weeks to grade a scantron test.
Teacher: Asking for help five minutes before the test.
Teacher: When a student fails to capitalize their own name.
Teacher: Gathering at the door before the bell.
Student: “The bell doesn’t dismiss you, I do.”
Student: Getting off topic. Student: When they give you a tardy for having to use the restroom. Tardies are for being late to class, not having to use the bathroom. 29
The Spreads
Teacher: When students sleep in class.
Teacher: Bland facial expressions.
THE SOCIAL SPREAD
Twitter @SereenaWeledji STAte champs with the best. Twitter @RyanCaragher Danny Goza’s calculator has been more places than I have smh. Twitter @JustinWrigley Another year has come and gone and nobody has signed up for my pre-prom dance lessons. #disappointed
Twitter @AndyCarta We’re making prom great again. #Buildthatwall
Twitter @Hoops_pop Get a man who can do both.
Instagram @AlieCarr My anaconda would like a little bit.
#SB2K16
Instagram @SeanBenson This picture suits us well. Twitter @SteveDubois Remember, if Jesus comes out of the tomb and sees snow, it’s six more weeks of winter.
Twitter @STAJAVELIN Cruisin off to the first meet of the season!!!!!
Twitter @ChristopherSchilling Great trip back to the homeland with my brother. Didn’t find peach but we acquired a new vehicle.
Instagram @MattJohnson Fin. Noggin. DUUUDDEE. Twitter @CiaranSweetman Spring break is approaching... Turn Styles productivity is about to skyrocket.
Instagram @MaddyRoney Instagram@VilhelmWestberg Man Crush goes to Papa “Hey Vilhelm wanna go to Francesco! Hawaii with us?” “DABsolutely”
Instagram @KatieBarr He’s dophinitely a good kisser. Instagram @AllieKoster Not a bad way to end my basketball career.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
The Survey Spread Every year, the cheer and dance teams face off in the Basketball Blowout, an exhibition basketball game that often draws many fans. Would you like to see other teams do the same? For example, the volleyball team could play the soccer team in Quidditch, or the rugby team could play the lacrosse team in kickball.
Yes, it would be fun to participate in. Yes, it would be fun just to watch. No, it’s a unique thing that those teams do that cannot be replicated. No, it’s a bad concept altogether.
Kansas Budget Crisis Kansans have learned to keep expectations low about the state’s fiscal condition, which made March’s $1.7 million miss of revenue estimates almost something to celebrate. But it was still the 12th time in 13 months that collections have come up short. And March does nothing to shrink the budget hole that lawmakers and Gov. Sam Brownback will face April 27, when they’ll also have new official revenue estimates and perhaps another Kansas Supreme Court ruling to consider as they try to
Tax shortfall makes budget hole deeper wrap up the session’s work. Up 3 percent from estimates, the March sales tax receipts were a relief after months of disappointing collections, but individual income taxes were 9 percent and $14 million short of projections – another indicator of the state’s fiscal disorder. Kansas’ income growth was just 2.5 percent last year, the seventh worst rate in the nation. Kansas also lost 5,400 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs between February 2015 and February 2016 – far from the gain of 25,000
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a year Brownback set as a goal during his re-election campaign. Brownback and his fiscal team may have faith that their tax policy will prevail – eventually. But at what cost? More and more Kansans recognize both the reality and elected officials’ responsibility to react to it with more than fund raids, service cuts and deeper debt. By Rhonda Holman, The Wichita Eagle, April 2, 2016
Will you vote in the November election?
Yes, I will be old enough and willing No, I will be old enough, but I know I won’t No, I won’t be old enough, but I want to. No. No, No, No
Who would you vote for in the presidential election?
Hillary Clinton - 5.1%
Ted Cruz - 22.4%
John Kasich - 14.1%
Bernie Sanders - 25.6%
Donald Trump - 24.5%
A Third-Party Candidate - 8.3%
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
Another One
Lady Saints continue the streak of 22 straight playoff appearances and win the 5A State Championship. BY ALEX WAGNER
Basketball Coach Rick Hetzel said. The team lost confidence when they lost Fisher and it became difficult to believe they could keep the streak of 22 straight appearances at State alive. The goals for the team remained high, though. The goal was to win EKL and win State. The road would be difficult without Fisher and Steichen, but the team started to believe they could after getting first place in the Topeka Heights tournament. Above “The team’s expectation was to Photo by Grayson Dunst | The Medallion take each game one at a time and The Lady Saints pose for a picture after focus on that game until it comes to winning the state championship game against the next,” Fisher said. “There was no Leavenworth on Mar 12. The seniors on the team ended their careers just as they began it looking ahead.” as freshman with a state title victory. After the tournament, Hetzel said the team realized they could win
With a 39-38 win over Leavenworth in the 5A state championship, the Lady Saints brought home the hardware for the fifth time in school history and the first since 2013. The team finished with an overall record of 20 wins and 5 loses. Before the season started, the team lost two of its five starters, senior Rhyann Fisher and junior Jenna Steichen, due to ACL tears. “You feel bad for the team, but feel worse for the player,” Head Girls
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and it was a big motivation boost for the team. The underclassmen on the team started to embrace their roles more and became more comfortable with playing. “We all understood our role on the court and what we needed to do individually to be successful as a team,” senior Allison Koster said. The playoff streak was extended after beating rival St. James. The team went into State being the eighth and highest seed. When it comes to the seeding, the match-ups are what Hetzel looked at. It’s about how you can match up against the other teams. In the first round of the playoffs, the Lady Saints faced off against
April 2016 Schlagle and trailed 16-9 at halftime. After halftime, the Saints started to get hot, tying the game just before going into the fourth quarter. With four minutes left in the game, the Saints got a lead and did not let go. They went on to win the game 43-37, earning a trip to the second round to face Salina Central. In the second round, the Saints battled hard to keep the game close in the first half, but in the last few minutes of the half the Saints went on a 7-0 run to extend the lead to 19-15. After half, the Saints got a big momentum boost from a three on the baseline from Koster, and the team never looked back and won 48-36. The team went on to championship game against Leavenworth. During the state title game, the Saints got out to a hot start and led the game by 16 at halftime. After half, Leavenworth’s press came and caused havoc for the Saints, cutting into the lead little by little until the game was tied at 38-38 with less than one minute left. Leavenworth then had the dagger ready to drain the hopes of the Saints when they had a chance for an open layup with less than a minute left. They missed it, however, giving the Saints the chance to win. With the ball, Koster was fouled and went to the free throw line, she was the one the team wanted on the line. As soon as she shot, they know it would go in. With a one point lead, Leavenworth had one last chance with 2.2 seconds left, but could not make it happen, and the Lady Saints became the 5A state champions. “I’m going to enjoy this forever,” Koster said.
Courtesy of Michele Gress Senior Allison Koster dives for a ball on the ground. Koster had the winning point in the state championship game.
Courtesy of Michele Gress The Lady Saints talk during a timeout in the second half. Rick Hetzel is in his 17th year as the Head Coach for the Saints.
Senior Alex Wagner is a editor for The Shield. This story was edited by Daniel Petracek.
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The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
ALLISON KOSTER
What was your motivation for the season?
Captain Spotlight
“Being a senior and knowing it was my last chance to play and win a state title.”
What is your favorite memory of the season? “Winning State this year.”
Who was your favorite opponent to play this year? “St. James”
Career stats
528 Total points
Courtesy of Michele Gress Senior Allison Koster stands at the free throw line in a tied game late in the fourth quarter. Koster scored the last point in the state championship game on Mar 12.
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3 pointers made 6th in school history
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74.4% free throws % 9th in school history
Talkin’ Baseball April 2016
Where’s the love for Aquinas baseball? BY HAGAN MAROZAS
Their goal, just like any other team, is to win a state championship. Already having two state championships won, the Aquinas baseball team has gotten the job done with little to no student section cheering them on. The Aquinas baseball team has had great success with Head Coach Lorne Parks. Having a team stacked with talent, 17 players, nine seniors, three juniors and five sophomores, as well as a few going on to further their baseball career in college and even possibly the Major Leagues, the team is hungry for another state championship. Senior Olivia Parise usually goes to the games with fellow senior Gabby Denzel. Parise has been going to the Aquinas baseball games since her sophomore year and other baseball games for as long as she can remember. “I like to go watch my friends play and it’s not cold like other sports,” Parise said. Living in the same city as the 2015 World Champions, almost the whole city is involved with baseball and goes to the Royals games. However, the one thing Aquinas baseball lacks are fans. From a survey taken by The Shield, out of 321 students, 76 percent of students say they would be more likely to go to the games, if they knew other students would attend as well. There’s a huge dif-
ference between the Royals and Aquinas baseball but Aquinas should have a better “feel” for baseball. “The Royals definitely have more fans and they play the game professionally. The Royals have two guys that can throw over 100 mph, we only have one,” senior pitcher and outfielder Alex Riedel said.
“We’re always having fun out there, and you can’t beat fun at the ballpark!” Grant Elias Senior first basemen Usually the baseball games are played on weeknights which makes it a lot harder for students to attend the games. It’s not impossible though, there are a few students who show up despite their after school activities. “More students would be attracted to baseball games if it got similar attention as basketball and football. Most of the games are held in the middle of the week which hurts our crowds but that’s just how high school baseball works.” Riedel said.
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“I think our home games are a great opportunity for all STA students. The games are hotly contested, and every player even has his own walk-up song this year. It’s pretty hype,” senior first baseman Grant Elias said. Almost every sport gets student attendance and they can really get energy and have more confidence when they have fans cheering them on. “It’s always great to have fans cheering you on. Like any team, we can really feed off their energy,” Elias said. Two years ago, the Saints won the state championship and this year the boys are determined to win another. “Our team goal this season is to win a league and state championship. We accomplished the first part of that goal last year, but we came up short on the second. We view each practice and game as an opportunity to get better and prepare ourselves for this goal,” Elias said. Come support your boys in their next home game Wednesday against Gardner Edgerton.
Junior Hagan Marozas is a reporter for The Shield. This story was edited by Becca Haeusser. Photo courtesy of Michele Gress The Saints huddle up after a 16-4 win over Blue Valley North on Mar 29.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
All Out For Wigs Out
Students continue showing their support for those struggling with cancer. BY ANSLEY REYNOLDS 40
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April 2016 Februaury 2016
Courtesy of Michele Gress A Saint Thomas Aquinas student prepares to cut her hair in the 2013 Wigs Out Ceremony. Our hair is a tangible piece of ourselves that we see every time we look in the mirror and feel every time we touch our heads. Year by year as we grow, our hair grows with us. The beauty of hair is often overlooked as it gives us the ability to express ourselves, our gender, our style and who we are as individuals. Unfortunately, there are boys and girls out there suffering with illnesses that take this gift away from them. What if by donating eight inches of our hair, we could give that gift back to someone who needs it? Saint Thomas Aquinas offers students the opportunity to help girls feel like women once again. It all started when performing arts teacher, Kim Harrison, decided she wanted to cut her hair in honor of her nephew who was struggling with cancer. “I started asking around to girls in my classes to see if they would be interested in cutting their hair with me and I thought maybe I would get eight to ten people after school but then I got 60,” said Mrs. Harrison. Proceeding that year, wigs out at Aquinas was born. Throughout
the years Aquinas has made 825 hair donations. When someone you know is diagnosed with cancer, you may think their biggest concern is that they have a life threatening illness. However, most cancer patients
“My favorite part is holding your hair after your friend cuts it... It reminds me that it’s all worth it.”
members. “Both of my sisters have donated so I wanted to keep the tradition going, especially since my grandma died of breast cancer. Giving something not everyone can do is touching,” said freshman, Olivia Oddo. There are great expectations for girls donating to Wigs Out this year. Each year more and more pony tails are cut off to give hope to those fighting cancer.
Mary Selanders Junior report the fear of losing their hair as the most upsetting part of their cancer treatment. Losing your hair is an inescapable sign that everything in your life is changing. Every student has their own reason for donating to wigs out. Some girls donate simply because it’s a good cause and others donate in memory of friends or family
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Junior Ansley Reynolds is a reporter for The Shield. This story was edited by Alex Wagner.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
The Food Review
Rock Your Taste Buds
So many beautiful things in one place. BY OLIVIA RODE Immediately after walking into the building that is Rock N’ Brews I knew I had made the right choice in choosing this Food Review. Banners, murals, music videos and more completely overwhelm you when you walk through the doors of the restaurant. The place was crawling with people on a Friday afternoon, but thanks to the picnic style tables we were able to be seated right away. After perusing a menu chock full of meals named after popular rock songs, the waitress quickly came to take our order.
Shield Scale 1- Terrible 2- Poor 3- Average 4-Good 5-Great
I decided on a Margarita Pizza, properly named “Margaritaville”. My friend ordered a burger called “The Backstage Burger”. Both were to die for. A side of onion rings was also ordered. They too, were incredible. The restaurant itself was partially founded by KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, so every detail is done with spectacular taste. I, as well as my friend, are diehard rock fans, so the atmosphere of the restaurant was almost too much to handle. We sat in silence for the longest time just taking in the greatness that is
5701 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66224 (913) 499-6495 Hours: Sun-Thu: 11:00 am-10:00 pm Fri-Sat: 11:00 am-Midnight
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Rock N’ Roll. Music videos by the Killers, Michael Jackson, ACDC and more played while I enjoyed a pizza named after a Jimmy Buffet song. Honestly what more could you ask for. Senior Olivia Rode is a editor for The Shield. This story was edited by Alex Kinnan.
Overall Score- 5 SHIELDS
ggggg
April 2016
Photos by Olivia Rode | The Shield (Above Left) The “Margaritaville� pizza was covered in roasted tomatoes and basil. (Above Right) The onion rings were pricey but delicious. (Below) Timeless bands and singers were awarded banners on the ceiling.
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The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield
The Icebreaker
Meg Goza Meet Meg, Sophomore Pole Vaulter.
Who is your favorite super hero and why? Either Spider-Man or Ironman. I grew up reading the Spider-man comics, but I like Ironman too because he is really sarcastic and I find him hilarious.
Who would play you in a movie about your life? I would have Jennifer Lawrence play me because she shares my love for food which is a very large part of my life.
What is your biggest pet peeve? I hate when people walk really slow in front of me because I tend to walk really fast. My other pet peeve is when people are disrespectful to eachother, because I was raised in a home where it’s all about respect no matter what.
If you could travel anywhere where would it be? If I could go anywhere I would go to Disney World because at heart I am four years old and love everything Disney. If you could tell the student body anything what would it be? Be yourself no matter what. Also, join pole vault! We are a pretty cool crew.
What is your favorite thing about the pole vault team? All of the people on it are so nice and incredibly easy to be friends with. Photo courtesy of Michele Gress
Meg clears the bar at the Saints Invitational in 2015.
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Senior Olivia Rode is a senior editor for The Shield. This story was edited by Alex Kinnan.
April 2016
“All of the people on it are so nice and incredibly easy to be friends with.� Meg Goza Varsity Pole Vaulter
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Photo courtesy of Justin Wrigley
The team has a meeting before their first meet.
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Shield Last Look Prom
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Photos by Annie Toussaint & Katrina Nguyen | The Medallion 1.) (From left to right) Seniors Cole Younger, Chris Kane, Joe Skevington, Matthew Romme, and Michael Gammill form the conga line. 2.) Junior Grayson Dunst enjoys his second prom. 3.) Junior Jackson Stalp atop classmates.
April 2016 Last Look Prom
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Photos by Morgan Taylor | The Medallion 1.) Seniors enjoy their last school dance. 2.) Senior Alex Riedel dances among classmates. 3.) Students that stayed until the final song.
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Photo courtesy of Michele Gress.
April/May 2016 Our Top Events of the Month
Friday 4/22 Girls Soccer @ Saint James, 6pm Thursday 4/28 Softball vs. Blue Valley West, 3:30pm Friday 4/29 Our Game of the Issue Saints Invitational Track & Field @ Blue Valley Northwest, 4pm Monday 5/9 Baseball vs. Blue Valley Northwest, 5 pm Spring State 5/13 Boys Tennis 5/14 Boys Tennis 5/20 Girls swim 5/21 Girls Swim 5/26 Baseball, Softball 5/27 Baseball, Softball, Track & Field and Soccer 5/28 Track & Field and Soccer
The Students’ Voice
The Shield