Abortion; Pro Life, or Pro Choice? You Decide
By Khayli Martin
6/2/16
Many Americans are faced with the unfair burden of teen pregnancy, some often think to themselves that they can do it and provide for their unborn child. Many teens don't enjoy the option of having an abortion while others look to that as their first option. The U.S abortion rate is among the highest of developed countries. The question that raises many people's beliefs is, “why do many women choose the path of having an abortion?” Some women do not have the mental stability to care for a young being, some even have trouble financing for themselves. In some reasons, many reasons are personal, some are not to blame. Many abortions are received by rape victims or teenagers that are far way too young. Many rape victims believe that if they do not have an abortion their child will grow up and become vicious towards others and maybe even become rapists or a sex offender. The first 9-10 abortions are performed in the first 12 weeks, and to that matter many of these abortions occur to women under the age of 25.
There are two types of abortion procedures; Medical abortion: the use of medicines to end a pregnancy which is basically 72 hours after you've conceived. Then there's surgical abortion where doctors would go in and remove parts of the uterus. Now when you ask yourself if you're against abortion or you're for it maybe you could think about it. Hillary Clinton said, “We're always going to argue about abortion; it's a hard choice and it's controversial, and that's why I'm pro choice, I want people to make their own choices. That being said it's the women's choice, many don't have much say. The Men have more say than us women do. Martin Luther King Jr said “ How can the “dream” survive if we murder the children? Every aborted baby is like a slave in the womb of his or her mother. The mother decides how or her fate”.
There are many effects of having an abortion, you can actually get cervical cancer. There can be good but there can also be bad effects, the bad effects are: bleeding for 3-4 weeks, high rate of being fertile, complications during a planned pregnancy, and infections. The good effects about having an abortion are: you don't have to have a kid you don't want, you won't have a kid against your will. I mean honestly would you want to have a kid and have to give it up because you can't care for and have become a ward of the state because of your lousy decisions. But overall I believe it is the woman's choice. Every women should be able to make the decision of whether or not she wants to keep her unborn fetus or not.
6/2/16
Many Americans are faced with the unfair burden of teen pregnancy, some often think to themselves that they can do it and provide for their unborn child. Many teens don't enjoy the option of having an abortion while others look to that as their first option. The U.S abortion rate is among the highest of developed countries. The question that raises many people's beliefs is, “why do many women choose the path of having an abortion?” Some women do not have the mental stability to care for a young being, some even have trouble financing for themselves. In some reasons, many reasons are personal, some are not to blame. Many abortions are received by rape victims or teenagers that are far way too young. Many rape victims believe that if they do not have an abortion their child will grow up and become vicious towards others and maybe even become rapists or a sex offender. The first 9-10 abortions are performed in the first 12 weeks, and to that matter many of these abortions occur to women under the age of 25.
There are two types of abortion procedures; Medical abortion: the use of medicines to end a pregnancy which is basically 72 hours after you've conceived. Then there's surgical abortion where doctors would go in and remove parts of the uterus. Now when you ask yourself if you're against abortion or you're for it maybe you could think about it. Hillary Clinton said, “We're always going to argue about abortion; it's a hard choice and it's controversial, and that's why I'm pro choice, I want people to make their own choices. That being said it's the women's choice, many don't have much say. The Men have more say than us women do. Martin Luther King Jr said “ How can the “dream” survive if we murder the children? Every aborted baby is like a slave in the womb of his or her mother. The mother decides how or her fate”.
There are many effects of having an abortion, you can actually get cervical cancer. There can be good but there can also be bad effects, the bad effects are: bleeding for 3-4 weeks, high rate of being fertile, complications during a planned pregnancy, and infections. The good effects about having an abortion are: you don't have to have a kid you don't want, you won't have a kid against your will. I mean honestly would you want to have a kid and have to give it up because you can't care for and have become a ward of the state because of your lousy decisions. But overall I believe it is the woman's choice. Every women should be able to make the decision of whether or not she wants to keep her unborn fetus or not.
Summer Fun in Vermont: Top Three Things to do During the Summer in VT
By Emily Gervais
6/2/16
Parents across the state can agree that the phrase "I'm bored" is commonly heard from their children's mouths in the summer. Luckily, living in Vermont there is plenty of exciting recreational activities to do this summer. These activities allow you to see the beautiful scenery of Vermont, and they are also a great way to stay in shape. The top three day trips are as follows.
To start, there are many ways to enjoy the Stowe Recreation Path. The path is about 5 miles long, and it crosses through bridges and other beautiful scenery. This summer is going to be hot, but the path is shaded by trees as it twists through the forest. It's great for biking, running, walking your dog, or just exploring. The path is open year round, especially beautiful with fall foliage and great for snowshoeing in the winter.
Another great option for the summer is visiting the amazing Mount Mansfield, which is also in Stowe. There are numerous hiking paths to get to the top, both easy and challenging. There is also a road that can be taken by cars to get to the top, or a tram that stays open year round as well. However, you chose to get to the top, be prepared for a beautiful view of Vermont's scenery. It is recommended to go on a day when there are no clouds, so you can see the view better. Also, if you enjoy it this summer, the mountain is open for skiing in the winter as well.
A third popular summer destination in Vermont is the Shelburne Museum. The museum is outdoors, and has 38 historic buildings to be explored. It is great for people of all ages, and has a shuttle for anyone who it might be too much walking for. Some of the exhibits include the steamship the Ticonderoga, along with other rare artifacts and art. Brianna Severance has visited the Shelburne museum many times. She said, "The museum was so much fun, and I enjoyed seeing all the cool exhibits." There is a lot to see, so it is recommended to plan to spend a whole day there in order to experience everything. There is an admission fee to get in, but it is well worth it for all that is there.
6/2/16
Parents across the state can agree that the phrase "I'm bored" is commonly heard from their children's mouths in the summer. Luckily, living in Vermont there is plenty of exciting recreational activities to do this summer. These activities allow you to see the beautiful scenery of Vermont, and they are also a great way to stay in shape. The top three day trips are as follows.
To start, there are many ways to enjoy the Stowe Recreation Path. The path is about 5 miles long, and it crosses through bridges and other beautiful scenery. This summer is going to be hot, but the path is shaded by trees as it twists through the forest. It's great for biking, running, walking your dog, or just exploring. The path is open year round, especially beautiful with fall foliage and great for snowshoeing in the winter.
Another great option for the summer is visiting the amazing Mount Mansfield, which is also in Stowe. There are numerous hiking paths to get to the top, both easy and challenging. There is also a road that can be taken by cars to get to the top, or a tram that stays open year round as well. However, you chose to get to the top, be prepared for a beautiful view of Vermont's scenery. It is recommended to go on a day when there are no clouds, so you can see the view better. Also, if you enjoy it this summer, the mountain is open for skiing in the winter as well.
A third popular summer destination in Vermont is the Shelburne Museum. The museum is outdoors, and has 38 historic buildings to be explored. It is great for people of all ages, and has a shuttle for anyone who it might be too much walking for. Some of the exhibits include the steamship the Ticonderoga, along with other rare artifacts and art. Brianna Severance has visited the Shelburne museum many times. She said, "The museum was so much fun, and I enjoyed seeing all the cool exhibits." There is a lot to see, so it is recommended to plan to spend a whole day there in order to experience everything. There is an admission fee to get in, but it is well worth it for all that is there.
Words of Wisdom to Incoming Freshmen
By Emily Brunton
6/2/16
Dear Upcoming Freshy,
Hey, so you're finally in high school like you've been dreaming of since 5th grade. But it's time to wake up. Things get harder, algebra is stressful when midterms and finals roll around so pay attention. It's nothing like how you see on TV, there is more drama and a lot more homework. Don't ditch class, you will fall behind and it will hurt your grade. You should focus on classes more than social life because it can get you in trouble, it messes with your ability to work. FOCUS ON YOURSELF. Also you're not going to keep all your friends, you grow apart due to no classes together, meeting new people and simply because you're no longer compatible. You will mature as the year goes on. Anyway, try your best and I hope you like high school.
Sincerely,
An Experienced Sophomore
6/2/16
Dear Upcoming Freshy,
Hey, so you're finally in high school like you've been dreaming of since 5th grade. But it's time to wake up. Things get harder, algebra is stressful when midterms and finals roll around so pay attention. It's nothing like how you see on TV, there is more drama and a lot more homework. Don't ditch class, you will fall behind and it will hurt your grade. You should focus on classes more than social life because it can get you in trouble, it messes with your ability to work. FOCUS ON YOURSELF. Also you're not going to keep all your friends, you grow apart due to no classes together, meeting new people and simply because you're no longer compatible. You will mature as the year goes on. Anyway, try your best and I hope you like high school.
Sincerely,
An Experienced Sophomore
The Benefits of Exercise
By Brayden Howrigan
5/31/16
Physical exercise is good for our mind, and also body. Team sports are good for learning responsibility, dedication, and leadership, and many others. Putting it all together by playing a sport is very good for your mind and health. Many athletes do better in school. Playing a sport requires a lot of time and energy. Some people think this would distract student athletes from schoolwork. This is not correct. Sports require memorization, repetition and learning skills that are directly related to classwork. Also, the determination and goal-setting skills sports require can be transferred into the classroom.
Sports teach teamwork and help make and achieve goals. Fighting for a common goal with other players, coaches, managers, and other people around them teaches you how to build team chemistry and communicate with others to solve problems which lead to victory. This is very helpful in life when it comes to problems at work, at home, or any other place.
Sports give many health benefits. Some are obvious and some are not. Sports improve your fitness and weight goals. They also encourage healthy decisions. For example, when playing sports, students are not smoking or drinking. Also, sports offer health benefits such as a lower chance of getting osteoporosis or breast cancer later in life. Also, a team counting on you to show up and work hard is plenty of motivation for you to go to the gym or workout.
Sports also boost self-esteem. Watching hard work pay off and achieving your dreams brings tons of self-confidence to yourself. If you can achieve something in a sport or with a goal, then you know you can achieve any other goal you set. That is a very rewarding and exciting process that makes you feel good about yourself. Playing a sport also cuts down on pressure and stress. Exercising is a way to loosen up and let go of stress. Also, you will make many new friends on the team who can be there for you and help you as a support system when you find yourself having a lot of stress.
5/31/16
Physical exercise is good for our mind, and also body. Team sports are good for learning responsibility, dedication, and leadership, and many others. Putting it all together by playing a sport is very good for your mind and health. Many athletes do better in school. Playing a sport requires a lot of time and energy. Some people think this would distract student athletes from schoolwork. This is not correct. Sports require memorization, repetition and learning skills that are directly related to classwork. Also, the determination and goal-setting skills sports require can be transferred into the classroom.
Sports teach teamwork and help make and achieve goals. Fighting for a common goal with other players, coaches, managers, and other people around them teaches you how to build team chemistry and communicate with others to solve problems which lead to victory. This is very helpful in life when it comes to problems at work, at home, or any other place.
Sports give many health benefits. Some are obvious and some are not. Sports improve your fitness and weight goals. They also encourage healthy decisions. For example, when playing sports, students are not smoking or drinking. Also, sports offer health benefits such as a lower chance of getting osteoporosis or breast cancer later in life. Also, a team counting on you to show up and work hard is plenty of motivation for you to go to the gym or workout.
Sports also boost self-esteem. Watching hard work pay off and achieving your dreams brings tons of self-confidence to yourself. If you can achieve something in a sport or with a goal, then you know you can achieve any other goal you set. That is a very rewarding and exciting process that makes you feel good about yourself. Playing a sport also cuts down on pressure and stress. Exercising is a way to loosen up and let go of stress. Also, you will make many new friends on the team who can be there for you and help you as a support system when you find yourself having a lot of stress.
LGBTQ Rights Are Human Rights
By Khayli Martin
5/28/16
Lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer rights have changed overtime. Why do people discriminate towards others? Do they think that they’re much different? What are LGBTQ rights? Many people disagree with the fact that some people like the same gender; while others see no harm. People feel that they need to be who they are so they can be happy.
“We all have a sexual orientation, and a gender identity. Discrimination against a member or several members of the LGBTQ community based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity is an issue that transcends that community and affects us all.” (Amnestyusa.org) With that being said why should it matter what your sexual preferences are?
Many LGBTQ members are discriminated against because of who they like or what pronouns they go by. Why discriminate? People feel the need to discriminate towards LGBTQ persons because they are different; this makes the victims feel as if they are not welcomed. The discriminators should know that love is a human right. “Men and women of full age, without limitation due to race, negativity or religion have the right to marry and to have a family. They are entitled to equal rights to marriage, during marriage and its dissolution.” (Amnestyusa.org)
In June of 1969, there was a riot in which police officers showed brutal signs of being prejudice towards a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community gathering in New York City. With all the protests going on, the LGBTQ rights movement was born. With that being said, June was named “pride month”.
LGBTQ rights are essential as said by many LGBTQ persons. It seems like they aren’t equal. Although gay marriage rights were passed, hate crimes still happen. Discrimination is mainly targeted at our trans community; especially for using the bathrooms. Sam Young, a former LGBTQ member spoke out and told us that they aren't much different. “We are all the same no matter what, I use the male bathrooms whenever I need to” It doesn’t matter how a person looks at you, you're always going to be discriminated against. “ People still look at my girlfriend and I and give us weird looks at the mall or when we’re going out to eat. We try to enjoy ourselves, sometimes I am even refused service because I am a lesbian”. It's hard to face life when you’re an innocent person and people treat you so differently. Sam also stated “people only pretend that the LGBTQ community is equal and the truth is; we’re not.” Many people of the LGBTQ community believe that with all the discrimination they feel that it unfair.
Another group member Kole Lorenzo stated, “The LGBTQ community is not pretending to be equal. Love is love and people can love who they want, so don't judge. We ARE equal; just because we aren't straight or we don't feel like we are in the right body doesn't change the fact that we are still human”.
5/28/16
Lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer rights have changed overtime. Why do people discriminate towards others? Do they think that they’re much different? What are LGBTQ rights? Many people disagree with the fact that some people like the same gender; while others see no harm. People feel that they need to be who they are so they can be happy.
“We all have a sexual orientation, and a gender identity. Discrimination against a member or several members of the LGBTQ community based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity is an issue that transcends that community and affects us all.” (Amnestyusa.org) With that being said why should it matter what your sexual preferences are?
Many LGBTQ members are discriminated against because of who they like or what pronouns they go by. Why discriminate? People feel the need to discriminate towards LGBTQ persons because they are different; this makes the victims feel as if they are not welcomed. The discriminators should know that love is a human right. “Men and women of full age, without limitation due to race, negativity or religion have the right to marry and to have a family. They are entitled to equal rights to marriage, during marriage and its dissolution.” (Amnestyusa.org)
In June of 1969, there was a riot in which police officers showed brutal signs of being prejudice towards a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community gathering in New York City. With all the protests going on, the LGBTQ rights movement was born. With that being said, June was named “pride month”.
LGBTQ rights are essential as said by many LGBTQ persons. It seems like they aren’t equal. Although gay marriage rights were passed, hate crimes still happen. Discrimination is mainly targeted at our trans community; especially for using the bathrooms. Sam Young, a former LGBTQ member spoke out and told us that they aren't much different. “We are all the same no matter what, I use the male bathrooms whenever I need to” It doesn’t matter how a person looks at you, you're always going to be discriminated against. “ People still look at my girlfriend and I and give us weird looks at the mall or when we’re going out to eat. We try to enjoy ourselves, sometimes I am even refused service because I am a lesbian”. It's hard to face life when you’re an innocent person and people treat you so differently. Sam also stated “people only pretend that the LGBTQ community is equal and the truth is; we’re not.” Many people of the LGBTQ community believe that with all the discrimination they feel that it unfair.
Another group member Kole Lorenzo stated, “The LGBTQ community is not pretending to be equal. Love is love and people can love who they want, so don't judge. We ARE equal; just because we aren't straight or we don't feel like we are in the right body doesn't change the fact that we are still human”.
Are You in a Healthy Relationship?
By Emee Lourie
5/26/16
Do you ever wonder if you're in a healthy relationship or not? Are you happy? Most people aren't informed about what a healthy relationship is, especially if you're in one. A healthy relationship is one in which you are happy and comfortable with your partner. In this relationship there are boundaries and communication and lots of equality. You need to be equal in this setting because both parties matter. You need to respect one another both mentally and physically and this enables easier trust. Another thing that most people don't take into account when they are in a relationship is the need for separation. The saying “distance makes the heart grow fonder” is in fact true because, without separation the two partners have no lives. The relationship may become a chore instead of something you want to be involved in. Not only is it important to have a healthy relationship but people should also be informed about what this means at every age.
Source says that, “A relationship is unhealthy when it involves mean, disrespectful, controlling, or abusive behavior. Some of the warning signs include verbal insults, mean language, nasty putdowns, hitting or slapping, forcing someone into sexual activity.” A unhealthy relationship can affect your future relationships. You can become untrusting to any of your partners, especially if people were unfaithful. Another cause for unhealthy relationships is mental abuse which could be name calling and constantly putting another person down. Sometimes you can't see a unhealthy relationship unless you have one because the other party is scared of their partner. It is very important to be informed about what a healthy relationship looks like.
For example of a healthy relationship is when a high school couple and an older couple were interviewed about what they thought about healthy relationships, their views on this topic varied. The high school couple was positive about the future but they were unsure about what might actually happen in their future. This couple doubted that their relationship would survive through a lot of big life events. This couple had been through the big life events like college, family, kids, marriage and they still had a healthy relationship after 16 years. The middle aged couple said the key to the relationship is honesty, equality, and communication. When comparing these two couples, the younger couple was more informed about the modern day definition to a healthy relationship, but the middle aged couple actually applied their knowledge to their everyday life. Overall, it is very important to be informed about a healthy relationship.
5/26/16
Do you ever wonder if you're in a healthy relationship or not? Are you happy? Most people aren't informed about what a healthy relationship is, especially if you're in one. A healthy relationship is one in which you are happy and comfortable with your partner. In this relationship there are boundaries and communication and lots of equality. You need to be equal in this setting because both parties matter. You need to respect one another both mentally and physically and this enables easier trust. Another thing that most people don't take into account when they are in a relationship is the need for separation. The saying “distance makes the heart grow fonder” is in fact true because, without separation the two partners have no lives. The relationship may become a chore instead of something you want to be involved in. Not only is it important to have a healthy relationship but people should also be informed about what this means at every age.
Source says that, “A relationship is unhealthy when it involves mean, disrespectful, controlling, or abusive behavior. Some of the warning signs include verbal insults, mean language, nasty putdowns, hitting or slapping, forcing someone into sexual activity.” A unhealthy relationship can affect your future relationships. You can become untrusting to any of your partners, especially if people were unfaithful. Another cause for unhealthy relationships is mental abuse which could be name calling and constantly putting another person down. Sometimes you can't see a unhealthy relationship unless you have one because the other party is scared of their partner. It is very important to be informed about what a healthy relationship looks like.
For example of a healthy relationship is when a high school couple and an older couple were interviewed about what they thought about healthy relationships, their views on this topic varied. The high school couple was positive about the future but they were unsure about what might actually happen in their future. This couple doubted that their relationship would survive through a lot of big life events. This couple had been through the big life events like college, family, kids, marriage and they still had a healthy relationship after 16 years. The middle aged couple said the key to the relationship is honesty, equality, and communication. When comparing these two couples, the younger couple was more informed about the modern day definition to a healthy relationship, but the middle aged couple actually applied their knowledge to their everyday life. Overall, it is very important to be informed about a healthy relationship.
Times Have Changed...
By Noah Swainbank
5/10/16
Times have changed in the maple sugaring industry. The entire way that it is carried out has changed. It has gone from a hobby that people used to do in between chores, to now a career choice to some. The changes happened for most when the process went from collecting the sap from buckets with horses to having sap come out of the woods with pipelines.
What’s Changed? Many things have changed to get to where we are today with maple sugaring. It's an everyday evolving field. People are always looking for a way to improve productivity in the business. For example, people evolved from hanging buckets on the trees and gathering them with horses to today where we have pipelines running through the woods bringing the sap to the sugar house or pump house. Other changes include the evaporators. They went from being wood fired where someone would have to feed the wood into the opening to keep it hot, to now where they are ran by oil fire and steam heat. These are huge changes in the field. The changes are shown in the amount of syrup made in a season.
The changes are allowing people to make this more of a full time job. People work in the woods year round whether they are setting up the woods in the winter and summer to sugaring the trees in the spring. This is a huge change from years ago. Years ago, farmers would sugar during the day when there were no chores to be done. Times have changed in the sugaring field and it is noticeable to the people working in the field. When asked how he feels about the changes in sugaring, Caleb Swainbank replies, "I think the new technology is pretty impressive, a lot has changed." This is a man whose grown up around the sugaring world and he realizes the changes are huge. The work of sugaring has grown and evolved widely over the past decade or so and continues to evolve everyday.
5/10/16
Times have changed in the maple sugaring industry. The entire way that it is carried out has changed. It has gone from a hobby that people used to do in between chores, to now a career choice to some. The changes happened for most when the process went from collecting the sap from buckets with horses to having sap come out of the woods with pipelines.
What’s Changed? Many things have changed to get to where we are today with maple sugaring. It's an everyday evolving field. People are always looking for a way to improve productivity in the business. For example, people evolved from hanging buckets on the trees and gathering them with horses to today where we have pipelines running through the woods bringing the sap to the sugar house or pump house. Other changes include the evaporators. They went from being wood fired where someone would have to feed the wood into the opening to keep it hot, to now where they are ran by oil fire and steam heat. These are huge changes in the field. The changes are shown in the amount of syrup made in a season.
The changes are allowing people to make this more of a full time job. People work in the woods year round whether they are setting up the woods in the winter and summer to sugaring the trees in the spring. This is a huge change from years ago. Years ago, farmers would sugar during the day when there were no chores to be done. Times have changed in the sugaring field and it is noticeable to the people working in the field. When asked how he feels about the changes in sugaring, Caleb Swainbank replies, "I think the new technology is pretty impressive, a lot has changed." This is a man whose grown up around the sugaring world and he realizes the changes are huge. The work of sugaring has grown and evolved widely over the past decade or so and continues to evolve everyday.
Bullying Worldwide
By Khayli Martin
5/4/16
It is a well known fact that bullying is a worldwide issue that needs to be stopped. There are many different forms of bullying that occur including; cyber bullying which is a form of bullying that is over the internet. Then there is verbal bullying which is using words in a negative way including insults, teasing, and putdowns. Next, there is social bullying which is spreading rumors about someone, leaving someone out of an activity on purpose, or embarrassing someone in public. Finally, there is overt or hidden bullying; which is done behind someone's back. With this being a worldwide problem, people should start paying close attention and intervening. “Studies have established that approximately 15 percent of students are either bullied regularly or are initiators of bullying behavior.” (ERICDigest, p. 4).
Bullying seems to increase through the elementary school years, peaking in the middle school/junior high school years, and declining during the high school years. “ Although physical assault seems to decrease with age, verbal abuse appears to remain persistent. School size, racial composition, and school settings do not seem to be distinguishing factors in predicting the occurrence of bullying” (ERICDigest, p. 3). What this means is teachers and peers need to start focusing on children more, they will never know when someone is bullied.
Boys are more apt to participate in bullying behavior and also to be the victims of bullies. The victims of bullying are usually characterized as anxious, insecure about themselves, and they suffer from low self-esteem, rarely defending themselves when confronted by students who bully them. They lack social skills and friends, victims are often socially alone, they often tend to be close to their parents, some have parents who can be described as overprotective making the situation a lot harder to deal with. The characteristics of several victims, are they tend to be a lot weaker than their peers, they’re teased because of their weight, the way they dress, and sometimes for wearing eyeglasses.
Most parents are often unaware of their child's problems and discuss it seldomly feeling that it is not much of an issue. Students feel that adult interventions are a waste of time and that telling adults will only bring more problems to them. Most victims say that teachers rarely talk to their classes about bullying. “Schools may view bullying as a harmless rite of passage that is best ignored unless verbal and psychological intimidation crosses the line into physical assault or theft. “ (ERICDigest, p.9).
Victims often fear school and consider it to be an unsafe place. “As many as seven percent of America's eighth-graders stay home at least once a month because of bullies.” (ERICDigest, p.9). The act towards some being bullied tends to worry other students because they feel the need to distance themselves away from the victims so they to do not have to worry about being bullied. Being bullied often leads to depression and low self esteem-problems that can continue into adulthood often leading to suicide.
It's clear that in most causes, bullying is an issue that needs to be seen as a serious situation. Bullying is not wanted by many and should be viewed as against the law. How many suicides does it take for people to realize what they say is hurtful towards others? You can't just look at this issue and think to yourself and say that it will all get better soon, because in some cases you know it doesn't.
5/4/16
It is a well known fact that bullying is a worldwide issue that needs to be stopped. There are many different forms of bullying that occur including; cyber bullying which is a form of bullying that is over the internet. Then there is verbal bullying which is using words in a negative way including insults, teasing, and putdowns. Next, there is social bullying which is spreading rumors about someone, leaving someone out of an activity on purpose, or embarrassing someone in public. Finally, there is overt or hidden bullying; which is done behind someone's back. With this being a worldwide problem, people should start paying close attention and intervening. “Studies have established that approximately 15 percent of students are either bullied regularly or are initiators of bullying behavior.” (ERICDigest, p. 4).
Bullying seems to increase through the elementary school years, peaking in the middle school/junior high school years, and declining during the high school years. “ Although physical assault seems to decrease with age, verbal abuse appears to remain persistent. School size, racial composition, and school settings do not seem to be distinguishing factors in predicting the occurrence of bullying” (ERICDigest, p. 3). What this means is teachers and peers need to start focusing on children more, they will never know when someone is bullied.
Boys are more apt to participate in bullying behavior and also to be the victims of bullies. The victims of bullying are usually characterized as anxious, insecure about themselves, and they suffer from low self-esteem, rarely defending themselves when confronted by students who bully them. They lack social skills and friends, victims are often socially alone, they often tend to be close to their parents, some have parents who can be described as overprotective making the situation a lot harder to deal with. The characteristics of several victims, are they tend to be a lot weaker than their peers, they’re teased because of their weight, the way they dress, and sometimes for wearing eyeglasses.
Most parents are often unaware of their child's problems and discuss it seldomly feeling that it is not much of an issue. Students feel that adult interventions are a waste of time and that telling adults will only bring more problems to them. Most victims say that teachers rarely talk to their classes about bullying. “Schools may view bullying as a harmless rite of passage that is best ignored unless verbal and psychological intimidation crosses the line into physical assault or theft. “ (ERICDigest, p.9).
Victims often fear school and consider it to be an unsafe place. “As many as seven percent of America's eighth-graders stay home at least once a month because of bullies.” (ERICDigest, p.9). The act towards some being bullied tends to worry other students because they feel the need to distance themselves away from the victims so they to do not have to worry about being bullied. Being bullied often leads to depression and low self esteem-problems that can continue into adulthood often leading to suicide.
It's clear that in most causes, bullying is an issue that needs to be seen as a serious situation. Bullying is not wanted by many and should be viewed as against the law. How many suicides does it take for people to realize what they say is hurtful towards others? You can't just look at this issue and think to yourself and say that it will all get better soon, because in some cases you know it doesn't.
The Dress Code: Is There Bias in the Dress Code?
By Emee Lourie & Emily Brunton
5/2/16
The dress code! Some places have strict dress codes and others do not. At Enosburg Falls High School, there is a dress code. These dress codes are designed for modesty. They also have these particular dress codes to make other teachers and students feel comfortable in the “workplace”. It could also be there to uphold a particular image for the school. At our school, the girl's dress code is no strapless shirts, no open backs nor crop tops. When a girl is wearing a tank top the straps must be 2 two fingers wide, shorts have to be at fingertip length. As for the boys' dress code, they are not allowed to wear Wife Beaters (tank tops), muscle shirts, and no drug or alcohol shirts that may advertise or mention these substances. This dress code is supposed to allow uniform modesty and to avoid distractions. They also don’t want substance abuse among students. Some people agree with the dress code and some do not.
A source says that there are constant multiple offenders that violate the dress code. She says that there are other issues with behavior that are more of an issue than dress code violators. At Enosburg Falls High School there is a dress code policy but, it is only enforced when a teacher goes to the person that regulates the dress code and reports that they are uncomfortable or have a concern with the students clothing. Dependent on the gender of the dress code violator this determines the person who will address the issue to the student. If the student is a male then the vice principal Jim Starr will address the issue, and if it is a female then either the nurse or Jodi Luten the planning room coordinator will address the issue.
But could those multiple offenders be of a certain weight? Some students may be fuller figured than others and this might have an impact on the dress code violation. A more fuller figured girl might dress like any other teenage girl her age. She might wear holy jeans and a lace shirt with a piece of material covering any risque places. The only thing that shows is the color of her skin. She gets dress coded whenever she wears clothes that may be slightly risque. Another student at Enosburg Falls High School who is of a smaller stature and weight says that she has never gotten dress coded. She says that even on her most risque of days she walks by everyone without a second look. She has never had a problem at school with any clothing. As students, we wonder how much the student's body type has to do with them getting dress coded. The student with the fuller figure claims that the dress code is ridiculous and can be sexist. She claims that it is sexist because her fellow male friends can get away with logos and writing but she needs something under her skirt, and she is not allowed to show her shoulders when her male counterparts get away with it. The source says that she agrees that bigger girls get ridiculed more for the way that they dress because of social prejudice.
Some things to consider for the Dress Code might be... Have you ever thought about the bias between smaller and fuller figured girls? Has it ever crossed your mind that maybe a fuller figured girl gets judged harder than a smaller girl? The more fuller figured girls are constantly reprimanded for their cleavage that is being shown, or their stomach that might be underneath a sheer shirt and an open back is socially unacceptable. People should consider these important aspects before making assumptions about dress code issues.
5/2/16
The dress code! Some places have strict dress codes and others do not. At Enosburg Falls High School, there is a dress code. These dress codes are designed for modesty. They also have these particular dress codes to make other teachers and students feel comfortable in the “workplace”. It could also be there to uphold a particular image for the school. At our school, the girl's dress code is no strapless shirts, no open backs nor crop tops. When a girl is wearing a tank top the straps must be 2 two fingers wide, shorts have to be at fingertip length. As for the boys' dress code, they are not allowed to wear Wife Beaters (tank tops), muscle shirts, and no drug or alcohol shirts that may advertise or mention these substances. This dress code is supposed to allow uniform modesty and to avoid distractions. They also don’t want substance abuse among students. Some people agree with the dress code and some do not.
A source says that there are constant multiple offenders that violate the dress code. She says that there are other issues with behavior that are more of an issue than dress code violators. At Enosburg Falls High School there is a dress code policy but, it is only enforced when a teacher goes to the person that regulates the dress code and reports that they are uncomfortable or have a concern with the students clothing. Dependent on the gender of the dress code violator this determines the person who will address the issue to the student. If the student is a male then the vice principal Jim Starr will address the issue, and if it is a female then either the nurse or Jodi Luten the planning room coordinator will address the issue.
But could those multiple offenders be of a certain weight? Some students may be fuller figured than others and this might have an impact on the dress code violation. A more fuller figured girl might dress like any other teenage girl her age. She might wear holy jeans and a lace shirt with a piece of material covering any risque places. The only thing that shows is the color of her skin. She gets dress coded whenever she wears clothes that may be slightly risque. Another student at Enosburg Falls High School who is of a smaller stature and weight says that she has never gotten dress coded. She says that even on her most risque of days she walks by everyone without a second look. She has never had a problem at school with any clothing. As students, we wonder how much the student's body type has to do with them getting dress coded. The student with the fuller figure claims that the dress code is ridiculous and can be sexist. She claims that it is sexist because her fellow male friends can get away with logos and writing but she needs something under her skirt, and she is not allowed to show her shoulders when her male counterparts get away with it. The source says that she agrees that bigger girls get ridiculed more for the way that they dress because of social prejudice.
Some things to consider for the Dress Code might be... Have you ever thought about the bias between smaller and fuller figured girls? Has it ever crossed your mind that maybe a fuller figured girl gets judged harder than a smaller girl? The more fuller figured girls are constantly reprimanded for their cleavage that is being shown, or their stomach that might be underneath a sheer shirt and an open back is socially unacceptable. People should consider these important aspects before making assumptions about dress code issues.
The Struggle: Uneven Funding of Sports Teams
By Emee Lourie
3/7/16
Enosburg Falls High school has many different sports teams. The essential sports are baseball, basketball, soccer, and field hockey. These popular sports are supported by the school’s funding. But are all sports teams supported equally? For sports such as dance and especially the cheerleading team, Enosburg have a lack of funding for materials. This year, the dance team started with two teams, and very little money. The new cheerleading team started with no funds at all. There is little to no money for transportation and competition expenses for these teams. In order to solve this problem, we could advertise better for the sports, especially to recruit freshman and other kids because not a lot of people know there is a dance team or a cheerleading team. The school could help to fund the sports by setting aside some money because it isn't fair that minority teams have no money for essential materials. Another solution could be to host a dance competition to raise money for not only the sport but also the school.
The dance team started off this season with the money that was raised last year. Due to this minor setback, the JV team was not able to get the outfits that they desired. The girls wore the outfits that the Varsity team wore the year prior. Another issue was that the JV team also had no place to practice during the season on school grounds. The team had to find a separate place for their practice. They sought refuge at the Opera House in Enosburg. Although they found out that this wasn't the end to their problems. Because of the lack of funding, the team could not use the heat in the space they were using because of the electricity bill. The team couldn't afford to pay for heat so when the girls practiced, it was very cold. The girls raised money by doing multiple bake sales. The JV girls tried to take matters into their own hands and fund their favorite sport team but they would still like the school to help sponsor their team and build awareness to the team.
3/7/16
Enosburg Falls High school has many different sports teams. The essential sports are baseball, basketball, soccer, and field hockey. These popular sports are supported by the school’s funding. But are all sports teams supported equally? For sports such as dance and especially the cheerleading team, Enosburg have a lack of funding for materials. This year, the dance team started with two teams, and very little money. The new cheerleading team started with no funds at all. There is little to no money for transportation and competition expenses for these teams. In order to solve this problem, we could advertise better for the sports, especially to recruit freshman and other kids because not a lot of people know there is a dance team or a cheerleading team. The school could help to fund the sports by setting aside some money because it isn't fair that minority teams have no money for essential materials. Another solution could be to host a dance competition to raise money for not only the sport but also the school.
The dance team started off this season with the money that was raised last year. Due to this minor setback, the JV team was not able to get the outfits that they desired. The girls wore the outfits that the Varsity team wore the year prior. Another issue was that the JV team also had no place to practice during the season on school grounds. The team had to find a separate place for their practice. They sought refuge at the Opera House in Enosburg. Although they found out that this wasn't the end to their problems. Because of the lack of funding, the team could not use the heat in the space they were using because of the electricity bill. The team couldn't afford to pay for heat so when the girls practiced, it was very cold. The girls raised money by doing multiple bake sales. The JV girls tried to take matters into their own hands and fund their favorite sport team but they would still like the school to help sponsor their team and build awareness to the team.
Homophobia: A Major Issue at EFHS
by Naoise Lantery
3/30/16
What do you think of when you hear the word “homophobia”? Do you think of pastors, proclaiming that being gay is a sin? Or of protesters outside a building such as the White House, holding up signs and shouting? What about business owners refusing to offer their services to anyone in the LGBT community due to their “beliefs”?
All of these are valid thoughts, and they do happen. But there is another form of homophobia, one that isn’t as widely known. What happens in schools, where students of every belief and background mix? Bullying happens, but it’s not just the stereotypical ‘nerd being pushed into a locker’. It goes so much deeper than that, to the tune of kids being harassed for their beliefs, race, and sexualities. It’s students using the word “gay” as an insulting adjective towards other students. It happens everywhere, even at schools with the most rigid of anti-bullying rules.
It happens here at Enosburg Falls High School. You may not believe it to be true, but it absolutely is. A survey, completed by 100 out of about 400 students and staff members, indicated that 18% of students and staff consider themselves to be a part of the LGBT community. Along with this, 50% of LBGT community members indicated that they have felt threatened or have been bullied by other students due to their sexualities. School needs to be a place to feel safe, regardless of your personal choices and preferences. If you yourself have ever been bullied here at school, it is strongly recommended that you report it to any staff member, simply for your own safety. If your belief is that being gay is a sin, you are strongly recommended to consider the other side of the argument. I think everyone should be allowed to love who they love, regardless of anyone’s beliefs- don’t you?
To further investigate this issue, I spoke with Ms. Brauer, a counselor at EFHS, to see what she thinks about the issue of homophobia at our school.
NL: What exactly do you do here at EFHS?
Brauer: I do a lot of prevention groups- I’m the advisor for GLOW (Author’s note: Gay, Lesbian, or Whatever), and I’m the advisor for OVX, which is Our Voices Xposed, which is the high school version of Vermont Kids Against Tobacco.
NL: Have you ever witnessed or heard about homophobia at our school?
Brauer: Definitely, yes I have. I know it’s probably more hidden now, but when I first came here I heard the word ‘gay’ all the time. It was constant- it was always used like “you’re so gay” and it was always a very big phrase here.
NL: Approximately how many times have you personally seen it happen?
Brauer: Well, if I were to go back eight years ago, I could hear insults involving gays five or six times a day. It was very common, but now I think it’s more hidden, so I don’t see it as personally as I used to. But I’ll say maybe one or two instances a week.
NL: Do you know of any preventative measures taken by the school against homophobia?
Brauer: I do, in November I had talked to Mr. Remmers about having Outright Vermont come in for a faculty meeting- Outright Vermont is our youth organization in Vermont supporting our LGBT students statewide. So Dana Kaplan came in and he talked with the community about how to use the right pronouns and how to tell which pronouns students use, so that was very new to teachers. He also talked about teachers not, having prejudices, but not opening their classrooms enough for discussion around it. There’s been that effort, and in the past I’ve given out “safe space” cards to teachers during Ally Week at the beginning of the year so students would know who’s safe to talk to and who isn’t. Some teachers have used those in the past, so there’s been some efforts.
NL: What do you think should happen about the homophobia here at EFHS?
Brauer: Well, I’d like to see when it happens that students report it, and I’d like to see that it’s followed up on and investigated and that students who use negative verbal abuse towards people in the community have consequences for that and are educated about it. I’d like to see more workshops at the middle school level, where high school GLOW students go in and teach the middle schoolers about various issues in the LGBT community.
Clearly, both staff and students believe that it’s time to make a change. Everyone deserves love, don’t you think? The next time you see or hear someone being homophobic, speak up! Advise them to be more accepting of not only their peers, but the world around us.
3/30/16
What do you think of when you hear the word “homophobia”? Do you think of pastors, proclaiming that being gay is a sin? Or of protesters outside a building such as the White House, holding up signs and shouting? What about business owners refusing to offer their services to anyone in the LGBT community due to their “beliefs”?
All of these are valid thoughts, and they do happen. But there is another form of homophobia, one that isn’t as widely known. What happens in schools, where students of every belief and background mix? Bullying happens, but it’s not just the stereotypical ‘nerd being pushed into a locker’. It goes so much deeper than that, to the tune of kids being harassed for their beliefs, race, and sexualities. It’s students using the word “gay” as an insulting adjective towards other students. It happens everywhere, even at schools with the most rigid of anti-bullying rules.
It happens here at Enosburg Falls High School. You may not believe it to be true, but it absolutely is. A survey, completed by 100 out of about 400 students and staff members, indicated that 18% of students and staff consider themselves to be a part of the LGBT community. Along with this, 50% of LBGT community members indicated that they have felt threatened or have been bullied by other students due to their sexualities. School needs to be a place to feel safe, regardless of your personal choices and preferences. If you yourself have ever been bullied here at school, it is strongly recommended that you report it to any staff member, simply for your own safety. If your belief is that being gay is a sin, you are strongly recommended to consider the other side of the argument. I think everyone should be allowed to love who they love, regardless of anyone’s beliefs- don’t you?
To further investigate this issue, I spoke with Ms. Brauer, a counselor at EFHS, to see what she thinks about the issue of homophobia at our school.
NL: What exactly do you do here at EFHS?
Brauer: I do a lot of prevention groups- I’m the advisor for GLOW (Author’s note: Gay, Lesbian, or Whatever), and I’m the advisor for OVX, which is Our Voices Xposed, which is the high school version of Vermont Kids Against Tobacco.
NL: Have you ever witnessed or heard about homophobia at our school?
Brauer: Definitely, yes I have. I know it’s probably more hidden now, but when I first came here I heard the word ‘gay’ all the time. It was constant- it was always used like “you’re so gay” and it was always a very big phrase here.
NL: Approximately how many times have you personally seen it happen?
Brauer: Well, if I were to go back eight years ago, I could hear insults involving gays five or six times a day. It was very common, but now I think it’s more hidden, so I don’t see it as personally as I used to. But I’ll say maybe one or two instances a week.
NL: Do you know of any preventative measures taken by the school against homophobia?
Brauer: I do, in November I had talked to Mr. Remmers about having Outright Vermont come in for a faculty meeting- Outright Vermont is our youth organization in Vermont supporting our LGBT students statewide. So Dana Kaplan came in and he talked with the community about how to use the right pronouns and how to tell which pronouns students use, so that was very new to teachers. He also talked about teachers not, having prejudices, but not opening their classrooms enough for discussion around it. There’s been that effort, and in the past I’ve given out “safe space” cards to teachers during Ally Week at the beginning of the year so students would know who’s safe to talk to and who isn’t. Some teachers have used those in the past, so there’s been some efforts.
NL: What do you think should happen about the homophobia here at EFHS?
Brauer: Well, I’d like to see when it happens that students report it, and I’d like to see that it’s followed up on and investigated and that students who use negative verbal abuse towards people in the community have consequences for that and are educated about it. I’d like to see more workshops at the middle school level, where high school GLOW students go in and teach the middle schoolers about various issues in the LGBT community.
Clearly, both staff and students believe that it’s time to make a change. Everyone deserves love, don’t you think? The next time you see or hear someone being homophobic, speak up! Advise them to be more accepting of not only their peers, but the world around us.
Cell Phone Usage at Enosburg Falls High School: The Positive & The Negative
By Emily Gervais
3/28/16
"Please put your phone away." This is a common phrase heard in many classes at Enosburg Falls High School. The use of cellphones has increased greatly in schools as they become more popular. Years ago, students would pass notes in order to secretly talk to their friends during class. But today, paper isn't needed. Texting, SnapChat, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are all popular apps that high school students use instead. Phone usage can be seen as both negative and positive in the school environment.
There are many issues that make teachers not want cell phones in their classrooms. Some fear that cell phones will be used for cheating on tests, or as an excuse to not do work. Brayden Howrigan is a sophomore at EFHS, and although he uses his phone in school daily, he can see why teachers may not approve of them. Howrigan said, "The reason I don't think teachers like phones is because they can be a distraction for students." Many students admit to using their phones during class time, regardless of teacher's rules. Noah Swainbank is a sophomore at Enosburg Falls High School, and he says that he uses his cell phone in almost every class. Swainbank said, "I'm on my phone pretty much all day. Usually it's because I'm bored, or I want to talk to my friends." Many students like Noah don't see much of a problem with phones at school.
It is true that phones can be a negative factor in school environments, but they can also be positive when used the right way. Although phones are not allowed, according to the school handbook, teachers all have their own rules about usage in class. Most teachers let students use them to listen to music, which can help students focus when working individually. Other ways phones help are by being used as calculators, sending pictures of notes to absent classmates, or being a substitute for uncharged iPads. Another time phones can help is during research projects where iPads are being used for other things. It can be handy for students to have two electronic devices. When used the right way, at the right time, phones can be a good help.
3/28/16
"Please put your phone away." This is a common phrase heard in many classes at Enosburg Falls High School. The use of cellphones has increased greatly in schools as they become more popular. Years ago, students would pass notes in order to secretly talk to their friends during class. But today, paper isn't needed. Texting, SnapChat, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are all popular apps that high school students use instead. Phone usage can be seen as both negative and positive in the school environment.
There are many issues that make teachers not want cell phones in their classrooms. Some fear that cell phones will be used for cheating on tests, or as an excuse to not do work. Brayden Howrigan is a sophomore at EFHS, and although he uses his phone in school daily, he can see why teachers may not approve of them. Howrigan said, "The reason I don't think teachers like phones is because they can be a distraction for students." Many students admit to using their phones during class time, regardless of teacher's rules. Noah Swainbank is a sophomore at Enosburg Falls High School, and he says that he uses his cell phone in almost every class. Swainbank said, "I'm on my phone pretty much all day. Usually it's because I'm bored, or I want to talk to my friends." Many students like Noah don't see much of a problem with phones at school.
It is true that phones can be a negative factor in school environments, but they can also be positive when used the right way. Although phones are not allowed, according to the school handbook, teachers all have their own rules about usage in class. Most teachers let students use them to listen to music, which can help students focus when working individually. Other ways phones help are by being used as calculators, sending pictures of notes to absent classmates, or being a substitute for uncharged iPads. Another time phones can help is during research projects where iPads are being used for other things. It can be handy for students to have two electronic devices. When used the right way, at the right time, phones can be a good help.