Student Athletes Hit the Clubs (Page 17)
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School Reopens, One Year
Later (Page 3)
Lions Find New Activities in
Quarantine (Pages 10-11)
Musicians Receive Accolades
from State, CCSD (Page 20)
Senior Awards Night Honors
Volume 19, Number 2 THE NEWSPAPER OF SIERRA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL Spring 2021 Top Graduates (Page 22)
Student Athletes Hit
the Clubs (Page 17)
Photo Courtesy of Ainsley Ayala
Sophomore Ainsley Ayala competes on the uneven parallel bars at the Nevada State Gymnastics Championship on March 26 in Reno. Ayala took third place in the event.
Page 2 NEWS NEWS Page 3
SVHS Graduation Rates Rise Welcome to the First Day of School...
for Third Consecutive Year in March!
By Jade Noochan Rickards said. “For the three previous years,
Staff Reporter the graduation rates were 91.96%, 91.9%, By Jayniel Arreola That buzz began the week before and The maximum number of students is 16-18
and 91.5%.” Assistant Editor the week after spring break. Freshmen and per classroom, based on classroom size.”
Sierra Vista High School has in- Anzalone believes that the increase seniors returned to school during the week Callisto added that SVHS will be
creased its graduation rates for the third in the school’s graduation rate is a team On Mar. 15, 2020, Sierra Vista High of March 22, and sophomores and juniors maintaining social distancing and that
consecutive year, reaching an all-time high effort, relying on input from students, staff School shut down due to the coronavirus returned the week of April 5. facemasks will be mandatory for staff and
in May 2020. and families. that flooded America with the disease. New students needed maps and di- students.
This record-setting statistic was an- “Our students have risen to the chal- After one year of quarantine, SVHS has rections to find their way around campus, a “We will be enforcing social distanc-
nounced in the fall edition of Education lenge, supported by our Apex team, our finally reopened for a limited number of process complicated by the implementation ing, mask wearing, hand sanitizer in every
Now, a special version of Desert Com- teachers, our support professionals, and our students to attend classes in person. of one-way hallways. classroom, and extensive cleaning through-
panion Magazine, published by Nevada parents,” Anzalone said. “They have found SVHS is currently following a hy- Within the first two weeks, LifeTouch out the day,” Callisto explained. “There
Graph by Jade Noochan
Public Radio. creative ways to help students succeed, brid for this school year, only allowing a was on campus to take school pictures and will also be assigned desks for students,
“The school recently celebrated a and our administration team has scheduled small number of students in for two days print student identification cards. which will not be shared with other students
Photo by Jayniel Arreola
16% increase in gradutaion rates in three students in flexible ways to maximize their a week. Assistant Principal Catherine Callisto explained that there will be throughout the day. All teachers will have
years, reaching 94%,” the article pro- potential and ability to graduate.” Callisto was very happy for the students. three groups, called Cohorts. The total extra masks, hand sanitizer, and general
claimed (“60 Standout Schools”). Both Anzalone and Rickards admit “I was very excited that our students population for both Cohort A and Cohort equipment like bandaids and alcohol wipes
Principal John Anzalone said that that this trend may not continue this year, as would have the opportunity to come back B, which is students that will be on campus, for each room.”
the graduation rates at SVHS have been the COVID-19 pandemic forced all students to campus if they felt comfortable and be- is very low. Not only has the school classroom
growing steadily. to attend school through distance education. with their credits before the graduation rate the time is right,” he said. gin participating in some of the activities “As of now we have just about 500 stu- changed, the school hours have also been
“Graduation rates have been steadily Because many students struggled with is announced by the district.” Anzalone looks forward to the oppor- and events they have missed out on for a dents under Cohort A and B, leaving about modified. On her first day on campus, freshman Natasha
increasing at Vista because of the hard online learning, Anzalone said that this While he is proud of the school com- tunity to bring the school’s graduation rate year now,” Callisto said. 1700 students in Cohort C,” Callisto said. “School hours for being on campus are Ballard receives directions from Assistant
work and dedication of the entire Vista school year’s graduation rates may drop. munity to achieve such high numbers, An- back to its pre-COVID percentages, but he Assistant Principal Derryck Rick- Although SVHS will be returning, not from 7 am to 10:30 am, with the third block Principal Ron Isaacs.
family,” Anzalone explained. “Graduation rates will likely decline,” zalone knows that there are other important knows that it may take a while for that to ards was also excited about the students everything will be back to normal. of the day occurring virtually for everyone the year on Distance education,” Rickards
Over the past three years, the num- he explained. “Sierra Vista has touted a things to consider as well. happen. returning to campus. “The classes will be set up in rows and ending at 1:16 PM as usual,” Callisto added.
bers have increased, according to Assistant 90%-plus graduation rate for the past few “Though I am proud when we have a “Though we may see a drop off this “I was happy that we would be able with classmates six feet or more from one added. Many of the plans that are in place
Principal Derryck Rickards. years, but that will likely drop to 80% or high grad rate, it is more important that we year, we know we will adapt and see those to see the students in person this year,” another,” she continued. “The teacher will All of these changes are happeneing for SVHS are based on the reopening ex-
“The numbers have gone up in small so. I believe our students will eventually find the best educational option for each high numbers again very soon. We will do Rickards said. “I miss the buzz around the assign rows and seats for students to sit in for in order to keep students and staff safe and perience at nearby elementary schools that
increments, but they continue to go up,” graduate, but they may not be completed student, and get them across the stage when this together.” campus when the kids are here, so I am the first block of the day and different rows healthy. opened earlier this school year.
Online Classes Cause Drop in Grades, Rise in Apathy
looking forward to it.” and seats for the second block of students. Rickards said that there will be a In February, CCSD elementary
sickroom for students who are showing schools, including Tony Alamo, opened
symptoms of the coronavirus. for students from kindergarten through
“We will need to work through the third grade.
By Jennifer Padilla explained that he made adjustments in an When they were learning in person, help ends meet in their families,” he said. district and contract tracing to determine Assistant Principal Todd Lindberg
Senior Editor effort to help his students. most students passed and seemed to pay “Those situations are extremely difficult. I who will need to quarantine and who may said that the first day for the students was
“Overall, I have been a bit more le- more attention to their grades. To some feel for them in a big way. However, many have been exposed to the virus,” Rickards exciting.
Student learning has been different nient this year due to the difficult learning teachers, that is not the case this year. It students just need to get to work.” explained. “It was great,” Lindberg said. “All
for everyone this school year, and many circumstances we’re in,” he explained. seems that many students are not as con- As the second semester approaches “Extensive cleaning is done in any of the kids were able to keep their masks
plans have been put in place for the safety Independence plays a major factor in cerned about passing their classes as they its end, many students are hoping to see classroom where someone may have been on and to maintain social distancing. Both
of others. Some students have adjusted distance learning, as most of the learning were in previous years. a change in their grades, since distance exposed to the virus as well,” Rickards the staff and kids were excited and it was a
perfectly, while others have struggled to has to be done independently by the stu- English teacher Amy Cropley noticed learning has taken a toll on GPA’s. continued. “Every school must establish a great day for both Cohort A and Cohort B.”
grasp the content of what has been taught. dents.This means that it is more difficult a dramatic change in her students’ academic This is especially true for seniors, ‘sickroom’ separate from the Health Office, Lindberg explained that the school
Senior Maria Ponce is one student to learn. effort this year. such as Dominic Rieken, who is concerned for students who are exhibiting symptoms. implemented the same safety procedures
who faced some challenges this year. Math teacher Amanda Phillips real- “Second quarter, I really saw an over- about his grades. The regular health office will be used that SVHS follows.
“I struggled with being able to un- ized that some students had a tough time all attitude of apathy,” she said. “Students “I hope to see an increase in my for students’ needs that are not related to “We have set up a sickroom for any
Photo by Jayniel AArreola
derstand some of the assignments and it’s with this independent approach. seemed to give up, even though the second learning curve, a higher gpa and a better COVID-19.” student that has symptoms of the virus,”
harder to ask questions,” she admitted. “Students now have to be more of a quarter is very important. It was disheart- understanding of my work,” Rieken said. Rickards added that students who do Lindberg said. “The playground equipment
Online school can be difficult for self-advocate, to come in for help, to ask ening to see.” Most teachers want students to re- not follow the safety protocols for SVHS can’t be used right now, which is disap-
students because of the lack of interaction questions and to go through lessons on English teacher Steven Smith realiz- member that there are many resources will face consequences. pointing,and the bathrooms are limited.
and limited explanations due to shorter their own as well as in the live sessions,” es that online learning has also been hard available to students to help during this “To add to Ms. Callisto’s points... if Everyone is required to wear facemasks
class times.To help, there have been major she said. for students who had difficulty balancing difficult time. any student in Cohort A or Cohort B that is and they are only allowed to eat lunch in
differences in assignments and grading While some students have thrived in schoolwork, work, and home life. “I really want to see students be more Junior Amelia Mejorada poses for her yearbook photo in the auxillary gym on April 22 while on campus, violates safety protocols by not their classrooms.
policies. on-line classes, many students’ grades have “I know some students are dealing proactive about their education,” said Phil- her classmates wait patiently, masked and socially distanced. School pictures are traditionally following the school or district rules will “But they’re back with their class-
English teacher David Jurvelin been negatively impacted. with the virus, and some students work to lips. “We are here to help you.” taken in October, but were postponed until students were back on campus. be moved to Cohort C and finish the rest of mates, and that’s what matters.”
Page 4 NEWS OPINION Page 5
District Expert Provides Answers to Staff Editorial
Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines Add COVID-19 Vaccine to List of Requirements
By Theresa Villanueva they were able to make them so quickly for So we’ve been in this pandemic for to keep students and staff healthy. Although Some people are concerned about the Finally, there are those who argue
Staff Reporter the US market.” what feels like ages now, and scientists and wearing masks and using hand sanitizer cost of the vaccine, but officials from the that getting a vaccine should be a personal
researchers have finally come up with a vac- does help students who are currently doing CDC have confirmed that the COVID-19 choice. But students are already required
Photo Courtesy of LaPrecious Shannaon
After nearly a year of the COVID-19 How soon after getting the vaccine will cine that could possibly close it altogether. education in person, having everyone take vaccine is free to everyone who is willing to to be vaccinated against a variety of other
pandemic, dosages of the vaccine are fi- people become protected from COVID-19? Regardless of this, the question still the vaccine will strengthen their immune take it. This is a huge advantage for people illnesses, such as measles and mumps,
nally being handed out to Americans, but “You will start to have some immunity remains, who should get the vaccine, and systems so they will be ready to fight the who are not able to keep up with medical which are not as deadly as COVID. If we
many people still have concerns about the seven days after your first dose. Your immu- should they even be getting it at all? virus if they are exposed. bills and other necessities, which means that are already required to get those vaccines,
vaccine. nity will continue to build and will reach a The most common fear of people con- A good example of this fact just oc- all teachers and students willing to take the it makes sense to add one more to the list.
sidering to take this vaccine is contracting curred at school last week. After only a few .
immunization and protect themselves can Scientists have insisted that the only
Clark County School District peak about two weeks after the second dose.
COVID-19 Education Safety Manager In other words, full protection won’t arrive the actual virus. Despite these specula- team practices, one person associated with offord to do so. way to stop the coronavirus is by achieving
Christine Forsberg took a few minutes until five or six weeks after the first shot. tions, the Centers for Disease Control has the SVHS baseball program tested positive Some people may argue that the vac- “herd immunity,” which will happen when
to answer some questions about the new That means it’s possible a person could be confirmed that none of the coronavirus for COVID-19. As a result, all players and cine does more harm than good. While CDC at least 70 per cent of the world’s popula-
vaccines. infected with the virus just before or just vaccines contain the live virus that causes coaches were placed on a mandatory 10 day and FDA scientists have evaluated reports tion has received the COVID-19 vaccine.
after vaccination and still get sick. This is Senior LaPrecious Shannon made a sign in honor of George Floyd when she attended a BLM COVID-19 itself. quarantine. This took place just days after from a some people who experienced a type Starting with students and staffs in schools
Why do you believes people should because the vaccine has not had enough time protest in Las Vegas in summer 2020. This actively demonstrates that if some of those student athletes had returned of severe allergic reaction—anaphylaxis— is a good first step in reaching that goal.
consider getting a vaccine? to provide protection.” all teachers and students were to take the to in-person education and a few days before after getting a COVID-19 vaccine, those To sum up everything that has been
“In short, to protect themselves
against the worst aspects of this disease, in- Are there risks to taking the vaccine?
BSU President Attends BLM Protest immunization, it would make the school
a non-risk environment for the virus.With
the teams’ first scheduled game.
If all members of the teams had been
numbers have been very small in compari-
son with the hundreds of thousands of Amer-
stated so far, there are more pros to getting
the vaccine rather than cons. Having a
cluding death and disability. Based on what “While there have been a few reported By Janeah Castillo She felt fortunate enough to experi- vaccinations finally being granted to citi- vaccinated against the coronavirus, no one icans who have died from the disease itself. school full of students and teachers who are
we know about vaccines for other diseases, cases of allergic reactions - some severe - Staff Reporter ence a protest in which things were meant zens of most countries, even the AARP said would have tested positive.The students Despite cases like these, a reaction protected from the virus that has taken the
experts believe that a COVID-19 vaccine overall, these particular mRNA vaccines to bring out change in a peaceful matter. statistics show that the vaccine has been would have been allowed to remain in class, can happen after any type of vaccination, lives of over 3 million people (and count-
may help keep you from getting seriously have few downsides. For many Americans, 2020 has been The violence proven to help COVID-19 rates rather than withou putting their classmates or teachers but everyone turns to accuse the COVID-19 ing), will get us closer to having a new sense
ill even if you do get COVID-19. Getting “Overall, there are no serious safety a year of tragedies, nationwide all the way that was occuring in hinder them. at risk, and the games would have taken immunization as it seems to be the only of normal again, and will hopefully help
vaccinated may also protect people around concerns. The most common side effects down to Las Vegas, Nevada. The Black Las Vegas had caused At school, new policies are in place place as planned. factor possible. stop the spread of COVID-19 altogether.
you, particularly people at increased risk were pain at the injection site and symptoms Lives Matter movement has made its mark some not to attend the
for severe illness from COVID-19. like fever and chills, similar to a flu shot. By in speaking up for the injustices against the protests, but to spread Lions on the Street
“A definite upside is to build an far the greater risk is from the disease itself black community. awareness through
immunity against a deadly disease that is
disrupting life as we know it. ”
and not from the vaccine.” Police killed 164 black men and
women in 2020, according to CBS News
social media instead. LaPrecious Shannon
“ I have mostly posted awareness posts Should All Students Be Immunized Against Coronavirus?
Can the vaccine cause death? (Police in the U.S. killed 164 Black people and petitions through social media,” stated
What kind of vaccines are they? “While there are reports of a few fatal- in the first 8 months of 2020. These are Shannon. “I saw peaceful protests and I
“The two manufacturers for the ities that occurred after people received the their names. [Part I: January-April] by LI chaotic protests in Las Vegas, the country,
FDA-approved vaccines in the US are vaccine, it has not been definitively shown Cohen, Sept. 10, 2020). and other countries around the world.”
Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. Both vac- that death was caused by the vaccine itself That was just in the first eight months Black Lives Matter groups marched
cines are mRNA vaccines, a new type of as opposed to other factors or pre-existing of the year. It was heartbreaking across the through the busiest parts of downtown Las
vaccine meant to protect against infectious conditions. These situations remain under nation. Vegas soon after the March on Washington
diseases.” investigation.” Many people were upset and that is demonstrations. Locals demanded that the
spiked high numbers of protests in many racial injustices in the system and the police
How are mRNA vaccines different Where can someone in Las Vegas go cities in the U.S., including Las Vegas, officers that used excessive force are held
from traditional vaccines? to receive a COVID-19 vaccine? Nevada. Not all were peaceful protests; accountable for these deaths.
“To trigger an immune response, “Vaccines are available now. A per- some were negatively affected by violent The University of Nevada, Las Vegas,
many vaccines put a weakened or inacti- son’s priority status in getting the vaccine is riots and looting. was another location for peaceful protests
vated germ into our bodies,” she explained. outlined in Governor Sisolak’s Prioritization There was a peaceful protest in Las last year. Protestors gathered there last June
“Not mRNA vaccines. Instead, they teach Lanes of January 11, 2021. You can get a Vegas over the summer. Sierra Vista High to demand rights for the black community.
our cells how to make a protein—or even vaccine at your doctor’s office, and many School senior LaPrecious Shannon attend- According to the Las Vegas Re-
just a piece of a protein—that triggers an local pharmacies have them as well. ed a protest against George Floyd’s death. view-Journal, it was a contrast between
immune response. Plus, mRNA vaccines “Distribution locations can be checked “I did go to a protest last summer after peaceful and violent protest (https://www. Vianca Munoz, freshman: Dasia Gresham, sophomore: Giselle Moreno, junior: Michelle Provencher, senior:
are not incubated in eggs, so that reduces with these following resources.This infor- reviewjournal.com/local/5th-night-of- I think it would be nice, but it’s not necessary Yes, it’s way safer for the people at the school The coronavirus vaccine should be a require- Yes, I think the coronavirus vaccine should be
George Floyd’s death,” said Shannon, who
because it would strenghten our immune whose immune system isn’t as strong as others. ment for students that are eligible to take the a requirement for students because we have
allergic reactions. “ mation changes daily, even hourly, so check is the President of Black Student Union. “It black-lives-matter-protests-ends-peaceful-
system more before getting the vaccine. As well as everyone having a lower risk of vaccine. After months of not seeing other requirements for OTHER vaccines (influenza,
back often. https://covid.southernnevada- was very peaceful and remarkable. It felt ly-2043668). catching the virus and if they do it won’t be as classmates and teachers, it would be essential meningitis, etc), so it would make sense for
How were they produced so quickly? healthdistrict.org/vaccine/distribution or nice to take action in order to seek justice The Black Lives Matter movement strong as if they got it without the vaccine. for these students to take the vaccine in order kids to have to protect themselves from the
“These [vaccines] take only a fraction https://www.8newsnow.com/news/health/ and a positive change for my community. will not stop, not when the community has to help slow the spread of the virus. There are latest threat via vaccination.
of the time to manufacture when compared coronavirus-health/vaccine-information- It is definitely an experience that I won’t such passionate people fighting for rights many students and staff with underlying diseas-
to traditional vaccines, which explains how where-when-you-could-get-your-shot.” forget,” for the community. es that will need extra protection.
Page 6 OPINION OPINION Page 7
Distance-Education Provides Limited Student Learning Negative Stereotypes Impact Students of Color
By Jennifer Padilla for teachers as it is for students.
By Janeah Castillo This year, I experienced another hurt- Being discriminated against has defi- Police brutality took the lives of
Senior Editor Student education matters, and it is
Staff Reporter ful incident at SVHS. I was in a Google nitely changed me in some ways that can be Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Andre Hill,
important that students are learning and
meet live session when a student who wasn’t either beneficial or detrimental. Casey Goodson Jr, Jonathan Price, Dijon
The 2020-2021 school year at Sierra grasping the material that is being taught by
Systematic racism has never ended Black made a joke containing a Black ste- Having had experiences like these Kizzee, Rashard Brooks, Daniel Prude, and
Vista High School surely has been unprec- teachers. It is also important that students are
for one of the biggest minority groups in the reotype. makes me personally stronger and ables many others.
edented and substantially out of the rdinary, asking questions and engaging in lessons
United States. The reason why we have a My teacher said nothing. I felt that she me to have a backbone. I will strive to my The list just keeps on going. But
to say the least for students and teachers. to help with their understanding, but now it
“Black Lives Matter” movement is because had chosen to let the comment slide. greatest potential without giving any atten- people from every state in our country have
Never has school taken place com- is nearly impossible to get the proper edu-
there is no justice for my people in America I couldn’t believe that someone really tion to any negative comments or energy. I taken part in protests and movements to
pletely online due to a global pandemic, so cation solely based on the circumstance of
at all. It is truly heartbreaking that we have said that. And I couldn’t believe that the will only soak up the love and positivity that bring justice to those dead.
it comes as no surprise that the way students distance learning.
to see such brutal and deadly force towards teacher remained silent. others give me when they are supporting me. It is seen everywhere and nothing will
are learning has changed considerably. It is a common occurrence that stu-
Image from ifunny.com
the Black community. In my own personal opinion, I feel As a student, I’m here to receive my be silenced. Those names matter. It’s been
I am sure that everyone can imagine dents will ask for their parents’ help on
As a young Black woman, I see the the only reason why the Black community education just like the rest of my peers. centuries that there is cruelty and oppres-
how the drastic change has impacted stu- certain assignments to help them better
hate across the nation. I also face the dis- is stuck in situations like that is because But there have been a few occasions sion against my people.
dents and their abilities to learn. How un- understand the material or how to do the
crimation inside my own community, at after slavery ended, African Americans when I was asked if I was able to compre- In Las Vegas, it felt very impactful
motivating can it be to want to learn when assignment, but then again, parents can only
work, school, social media, and other areas were restricted to access to everyday needs hend material that was taught in class. seeing everyone come together in my own
students are logging into a class session do so much.
of my everyday life. necessary to survive. Making sure I am able to “compre- city to push for national human rights
when there are about twelve students and Parents are not attending the classes, Like Bart Simpson, many students put little effort into their education. I’ve experienced countless incidents The system was designed from having hend” subjects at hand?? Most of my classes changes. Everything about these move-
half of them are sleeping. or if they understand the lesson the parent
of racism and stereotypes at all the high the Black community prosper. A Black child are white dominated anyways, so of course ments and protests makes the Black com-
This learning environment is taking was most likely taught a different way, or It can be substantially harder to learn together lesson plans and help students
schools I’ve been to in Las Vegas. Prior to is significantly more likely to be in poverty I’m looked at differently. munity feel so fierce and powerful, because
a toll on most people right now, including only understands half of the assignment online when there are different learners and understand the work.
Sierra Vista High School, I attended Arbor then the average white child. But I’m a student who goes out my that is what we are.
students, teachers, and parents. Students Very rarely can students request the help of only one way to teach, through a 30 minute- At this point, it is up to students to put
View, Cimarron-Memorial, and Centennial Society was designed for African way to make sure I succeed in school be- Unfortunately, some people looted
need to understand how difficult this transi- a parent because neither the parent nor the meeting on a computer. forth the effort to succeed. Teachers have
High Schools. Racism exists at all of them. Americans to rely on government assistance, cause I am not the most athletic person. I stores and took advantage of businesses
tion has been for teachers as well. Teachers student understands the lesson. Some students have taken their edu- provided resources and time dedicated to
I remember two similar events that hence many Black families live in poverty use my brains to get me where I need to be. during this time. That will not bring back
can only do so much to get students excited This is a new school year for students, cation less seriously because of the circum- students reach the best of their ability, and
occurre, one during my freshman year, and would be on welfare. Mind you, I am a Black woman in those lives that were lost at all. It was so
to learn while being online; in person they which means the lessons and material are stances, and it is hard to get students excited it is now up to the students to decide how
and another during my sophomore year. But that’s not the problem. The prob- only AP and Honors classes. My classes are chaotic that some people couldn’t just pro-
have other sources and opportunities to increasingly more challenging, which makes about learning online. they will use those resources.
In both of my English Honors classes we lem is that the comment is very insensitive. never diverse. Most of the time I am in the test peacefully and tensions started to rise.
engage with their classes, but now that ev- this season of learning even more difficult. I believe teachers are doing the best Students can learn just as they did
were reading Of Mice and Men and To Kill Some people can’t help what they are born minority. In most of my classes, I feel I am All anyone can do is spread awareness to
eryone is participating in distance learning Every student learns differently: some are they can in the situation. They work hard to before distance learning, maybe even better,
a Mockingbird. Both books contains racial into. On the other hand, not all families are being secluded from the group because of the matter at hand.
and only half of the class is attending live visual learners, some are auditory learners, encourage students and get them excited. but only if they make the effort. Attending
slurs against African Americans. in those types of situations. But it really my skin tone. Some may say it brought the Black
sessions, it is just as difficult and frustrating and some are hands-on learners. They are still working just as hard to put live sessions is a good start.
Keep in mind, I am one of only two or wasn’t appropriate to say that about Black I was one of only two or three Black community along with other ethnic groups
Change to Grading Scale Creates Opportunity
three black students in these classes. When people as a whole. students in most of my AP and Honors class- closer because many people participated in
The Sierra Vista High School we were reading, both teachers (who were Especially not in class. es. It is a struggle I have, but I feel like I need the protests.
Mountain Lion white) emphasized those words and made A lot of these situations occur because to keep proving myself worthy enough to be It is great to see there is a place where
Messenger By Jayniel Arreola have a better chance of getting a passing There can be a lot of problems that a eye contact with me. It was very awkward, nobody wants to speak up. That is why I was in those advanced courses. voices can be heard about these significant
Assistant Editor grade. The scale was changed from the student may be dealing with through online to say the least. very upset at the fact that my teacher didn’t I completely take that negativity and issues at my school. BSU (Black Student
Senior Editor:
Jennifer Padilla traditional scale to one that incuded a “mini- learning, and this change could have been Usually, in a class where a racial slur speak up knowing that she had some Black make it into a driving force to prove others Union) opens doors for anyone, not just
Assistant Editor: This school year has been very rough mum F.” This gave hope to students who had a big help for them. appears in writing, it is not said and it isn’t students in the class. wrong and to strive for the greatness I know those of us in the Black community, to
Jayneil Arreola for students not only in Sierra Vista High achived significantly lower grades. Some students believe that this school a big deal. After the live session ended, I emailed I can accomplish. openly discuss these tasks and problems.
Staff Reporters: School, but throughout the schools of Clark A total of two hundred students across year won’t even matter in the future and But in these cases both teachers the teacher and showed her a screenshot of The truth is, Las Vegas is very diverse. It is a very great outlet for Black voices.
Janeah Castillo
County School District. all four grade levels barely passed as a result think nothing of it, but their poor could said the word, and it made me feel very what that student had written. And SVHS is one of the most diverse high This year, SVHS also began the Stu-
Seth Polston
Chrishawn Miller Many students have mixed opinions the grading system being changed. How- severely impact them later in the long run. uncomfortable. When it was brought to her attention, schools in CCSD. I honestly love seeing the dent Equity Cohort, a forum for students
Jade Noochan about online school when it comes to the ever, the adjustments did not have much Most, if not all, students have been stressed As a freshman, I told my SVHS it seemed to me that she acted like she didn’t diversity here in Las Vegas. and staff to discuss issues of stereotyping
Theresa Villanueva topic of grades. Some students have bene- impact on the hundreds of students whose out from school this year. teacher about it. She didn’t say it anymore. know. But I thought she must have read the We have allies who wanted to see the and discrimination at school.
Faculty Advisor: fitted from online learning and have taken grades were below 20 per cent. She completely respected my boundaries comment in class. It made my frustration oppression come to an end. Every small ef- Being Black is beautiful. We will
As students begin to procrastinate,
Pamela K. Poster
advantage of getting a higher grade, but There was a variety of reaction to the assignments start to stack up into a pile and and feelings. And I appreciated that. even stronger because I felt that my concerns fort made now will make a huge impact later. fight for and demand justice in this country
The Sierra Vista Mountain Lion Messenger is a student others, not so much. grading policy being changed. Some teach- begin to destroy the motivation a student But when I attended another school, were simply brushed away. On the other hand, it takes traumatic that claims to be free.
publication of the Journalism class at Sierra Vista High Toward the end of Semester l, the mo- ers thought of it as a perfect opportunity to I asked that teacher if those slurs could be What can be done to make sure com- events for it to be seen through eyes ev- The history of racism hasn’t repeated
School. It provides a public forum for the discussion
had before.
of ideas and events that affect the students and staff of tivation that students had in the fall began help students pass, while others did not find This opportunity that the school has something that went unsaid because of their ments like these aren’t made? erywhere. Nobody sees the struggle from itself; it has simply never stopped. It may
Sierra Vista High School. Opinions expressed herein to decrease, and they started to procrastinate the idea fair. given shows that students should never meaning to the Black community. We Black students need to be respected everyday life as a Black man or woman. never fully stop, but it will start to diminish
do not necessarily reflect the views of the advisor,
faculty, administration, the Board of Education, or rather than getting their work done. Some During Semester l, some teachers give up and should try their hardest no And that teacher’s response was that and well represented everywhere that we see 2020 was a year that sparked so much con- with the powerful people who represent our
the Clark County School District. Correspondence students waited until the last minute to work received little to no feedback from their matter what. “it is for educational purposes.” I was in instances like these. troversy. We have seen so many Black lives community and our voices.
should be mailed to the Messenger at Sierra Vista High
School, 8100 W. Robindale, Las Vegas, NV 89113.
on their assignments. students. Although some teachers thought A total of two hundred students have shock. I believe that nobody who isn’t Those incidents made me feel worth- taken from our community. I know I will never stop using my
Electronic messages may be sent to postepk@nv.ccsd. After final exams ended for Semester that the “minimum F” was not a good idea, shown that it is possible. The others need to Black should be saying those words be- less, dull-witted, less confident, and isolated. There is a now rise in emotion because voices when it is valid and neither should
net. All letters must be signed, and may be published in l, SVHS decided to temporarily change the cause they don’t understand the oppression you. We have freedom of speech. Let’s
the Messenger if deemed appropriate.
others found it a wonderful idea for students follow their example and work hard during No student should ever feel unwelcome of the racial tensions across the nation be-
grading scale, so borderline students could to take into consideration. the last few weeks of school. experienced by the Black community. during their educational time like I have. cause of the deaths at the hands of police. continue to use it.
Page 8 FEATURES FEATURES Page 9
Vista Voices: Student Equity Cohort Yearbook Staff Looks Back With Pride,
Thanh Presents the Provides Venue to Forward With Hope: Now, It’s Personal
Address Difficult Topics
Screenshot Courtesy of Michael Clayman
Weather, “Whether By Theresa Villanueva By Theresa Villanueva seem to fill it out.”
Staff Reporter As they prepare to complete the year-
You Like it or Not” Staff Reporter
book, the staff had to find new ways to get
Screenshot Courtesy of Vista Station News
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dispite the challenges facing the year- the book finished.
Senior Thanh Dang has made a name students have started to speak out about book staff at the end of 2020, the Sierra Vista “We’ve been sending out Google
for himself as the weatherman on Vista changes they want to see around school. High School 2020 yearbook, titled “Through surveys to get content for our spreads,
News. He took a few minutes out of his A Student Equity Cohort was created Our Eyes,” has been selected for inclusion including pictures and quotes,” Jurvelin ex-
busy day to share his experiences. in order for students to voice their concerns in the 2021 Jostens LOOK BOOK! plained. “It’s an online creation program,
and create possible solutions for the issues. Advisor Dave Jurvelin is very proud so that can be done from home.”
Mountain Lion Messenger: Who helps “The idea originally came from a of his staff. Events are being covered differently
Members of the SVHS Bible Club meet weekly to share optimism and friendship, although there
and does the filming? Who compiles the group in Washington that was shared with “This is a pretty cool achievement,” he due to the circumstances.
are fewer particpants than there have been in the past.
video for each presentation? me at a national conference and I decided wrote in an email to the SVHS staff. “The “Events are being covered through
Thanh Dang: Before Coronavirus, we
to bring it to our staff,” said Sierra Vista
High School Assistant Principal Catherine
Clubs Go Virtual, Encouraging Students 300+ page LOOK BOOK is essentially Jos-
ten’s showcase of good examples from their
responses from Google Forms, joining
Google Meet calls and screenshotting
to Remain Connected at a Distance
Senior Thanh Dang presents his weather report from his backyard during the broadcast of “Vista
shot most of our news in a filming room Callisto. “[BSU founder] Mr. Long and I best books, and it is sent out to over 11,000 pictures, emailing students and asking
Station News” on March 17.
in the back of the classroom. There, stu- decided to move forward with creating the schools! It’s the second time we’ve had a interview questions, or contacting students
dents had the responsibility of finishing tice filming since my weathermanning is a rush on camera, not going to lie. I have a cohort here at Sierra Vista.” By Jennifer Padilla David Edgeworth said. “Last year, there spread included in the Look Book (we made through social media to ask for pictures and
the news within a time limit or finish the lot simpler than news anchoring. similar feeling when presenting in front Students at SVHS have attended two Senior Editor were a lot of things that the board members it in two years ago). This year, we’re in- interview questions,” explained Savella.
following days after. One student and Ms. of class and trying to make it fun even if meetings so far. Having a say in what goes were able to organize in order for the other cluded in the section highlighting reference The other editors agree, claiming that
Mosher would check in to see if we were MLM: Where do you film the news? some/all of my jokes or wacky actions around campus is extremely important to Not only has online school impacted members to get community service hours. pages and ad spreads.” while the year was odd, the goal was the
doing work and to help in the filming end up failing on the masses. It’s very fun them. education, but it has taken a major toll on This year, we’re not allowed to promote On the heels of that honor came a same as it always is.
process. Now, we usually just film on our TD: For weather or getting footage for the to be on camera and it becomes not at all “At the first meeting, we discussed school clubs and extracurricular activities. anything that takes place anywhere indoors. seemingly impossible task for the current “Even if it isn’t a “normal” school
own. I believes (broadcasting teacher) news, we often went out of the classroom embarrassing when you realize that you’re gender and racial inequality,” explained It has been a struggle for clubs and activities “We have a few ways that people can yearbook staff: to produce an annual that year, we still wanted to put forth a yearbook
Ms. Mosher compiles all of the videos and go around the school to find a spot or presenting to high schoolers and not a BSU president LaPrecious Shannon. “We to function as how they had before distant get hours online, but there’s really only so features all the life of a school that is almost for everyone to enjoy,” said senior Kait-
with the help of editing from another whichever elective class we were covering court judge or something. were just connecting through our experi- learning. much you can do for community service entirely virtual. lyn Savella, another editor. “Despite the
student named Jennie Guzman. that week. Ms. Mosher would also give ences and getting input from each other. It Many clubs have not been attended online,” Edgeworth admitted. obstacles and difficulties everyone had to
us lists of different shot techniques that MLM: How did you become a weather- was really nice to get a chance to open up or have struggled to have meaningful ac- When it comes to meetings and online experience this year, we want to continue to
MLM: What is the most complicated part we had to go out and get from outside the man on Vista News? with someone. tivities. clubs, it is difficult to see interactions and provide everyone a book full of memories
of your job as a news weatherman? Is it classroom like a “to-do” list. My favorite “We students at Sierra Vista should Some clubs at Sierra Vista High participation from students. to look back on to show both the positive
more complicated doing it off campus? spot to do that was near the lunch room in TD: I volunteered during my freshman have a voice about what we want to change School, such as Key Club, Brighter Paths, The Bible Club has still held its weekly and negative moments, revealing students’
the outdoors where students would hang year, and I guess they liked how I acted and how we feel at school,” she added. “It and National Honor Society, offer commu- meetings, but the number of student who strengths and happiness during this time.
TD: Being a weatherman, I think that the out. Now I just go in my backyard in the on camera and kept me around to do the is important for students to have that voice, nity service and volunteer opportunites for participate is down from previous years. “We also know how important year-
most complicated part of my job is to try morning is about it. I did news anchoring on-camera stuff very frequently. I think otherwise nothing will ever change.” the students, but due to the transition to “Certainly the biggest challenge with books are for seniors, and that one final
to position the camera so that they could in my early senior days but it was an abso- earlier memories of me doing stuff for the Callisto explained that a number online school, it is difficult to participate having anonline school club is participa- book to add to their collection of high
see some sunlight hitting my face while lute Herculean task to hang a green screen news was when I presented the weather of issues are currently being discussed in these activities. tion,” President junior Eric Oytas said. “ school yearbooks is significant,” she con-
still being able to read off what’s on the without a proper stand. with our soon-to-be news director near the among coordinators in the hope of making “The negative is that we aren’t in per- Although virtual meetings may be more The cover of the 2020-2021 SHVS yearbook, tinued.
screen of my computer. The noise of cars school’s twirling walk way and I just pre- SVHS a positive and supportive place for son, so having those connections and doing accessible, they are less personal. Many entitled, “NOW, It’s Personal.” With some creativity and dedication,
and other background noises often inter- MLM: Why did you decide to participate sented the weather in the most over the top all students. campus clean up and group projects hasn’t members, like in regular classes, have their The staff began as it normally would: the staff has created a unique history of the
rupts the clarity of my voice in the film, in front of the camera? How does it make and zany way ever. I think I’ve mellowed “Our ultimate goal of the student eq- been able to happen this year,” Key Club cameras off and mute their microphones.” giving the editors their tasks and assigning year that was lost. Thay call it, “NOW it’s
so I have to stop myself and redo it after you feel? out over time when I did more of the uity cohort is to develop a guidebook that advisor Kritsten Cuttita explained. “I hope Online school has made it difficult to coveerage to all staff members. personal.”
waiting for that noise to pass. It doesn’t scripted news anchor stuff, though. addresses our students’ thoughts, opinions, that we can still have meetings virtually to get excited about learning and participation, “It’s important to keep regular things “The theme as well is very dissimilar,
help that I mess up several times in one TD: One reason is that I like being on and strategies on how they would feel best give everyone the opportunity to attend, although these clubs are still functioning and going despite the obstacles this year has defi- meaning we’re taking on a different view
shoot! I don’t think it’s more complicated camera is that I get to express myself or MLM: Did you take broadcast last year? supported by their teachers and school even if they can’t stay after school, but I trying their best to bring a little happiness to nitely thrown everyone,” Jurvelin explained. for the book,” explained Savella. “Due to
to do this off campus. I say that it’s much convey some sort of coherent message. Will you do it in the future? staff,” said Callisto. “After this is created, also hope that we can get together and do the school community. But like many others, the students in this, this yearbook is definitely a special
easier because I have a lot more time and On camera, I could emphasize words, we will share it with our staff and hope group projects again to have the students Brighter Paths club advisor Heather the publications class have had to rewire one.”
leeway with mess-ups since I’m not try- put more emotional weight on what I’m TD: I did take broadcast last year. Funnily to see even more positivity in our school connect over volunteering. Kolb hopes club involvement will resume and change the way they operate in order Certain changes have had to be made,
ing to find the time and place to film. saying, and have a fun time with the screw enough, I believe that I had to get pulled climate and culture.” “Friendships and bonds are formed next year. to successfully carry out this year due to the but everything seems to be on track with
ups. The second reason is that I was tired out of another class by Ms. Mosher be- Solutions are slowly but surely com- when they volunteer together and they get “I hope to see more members, more Coronavirus pandemic. yearbook distribution.
MLM: When do you film the news or of everybody else being too shy to get on cause I was put in another elective at that ing along to provide students comfort and to know each other through those volunteer community projects and fundraising, and “The difficulties this year have been “We decided to change the deadline
have practice filming? camera (not to toot on my horn or any- time for some reason. Without her recog- reassurance for their matters. opportunities,” Cuttita added. more outreach to others at Vista,” she said. about coverage and for students to partic- so we are able to cover the whole school
thing) and just decided to do it so that we nizing me at that time, I probably would “Any issues that come up are being NHS has also found it difficult to per- “No one disagrees that the world needs to ipate,” said junior Isabelle Vongpanya, a year of 20-21,” said Vongpanya. “I’m not
TD: Since I have Video Production in the don’t get a never ending discussion on not have been back until senior year. I’m discussed and worked through so that we form communitiy service during this year. share more positivity and self-confidence, yearbook editor. “And fixing this problem sure when yearbooks will be available for
morning now, I have the time between who was forced to go when nobody vol- not looking to become a weatherman or- can find solutions that best support our “Online schooling has affected our but the world is a big place. SoVISTA is a has been somewhat resolved with the use of students, but hopefully by the end of this
7:10 - 8:49 approximately. I don’t prac- unteers. I have a little bit of an adrenaline news anchor as a career, but it’s fun to do. students,” said Callisto. club quite a bit,” NHS President senior- great place to start.” Google forms, but only a handful of students school year.”
Page 10 SPECIAL FEATURES SPECIAL FEATURES Page 11
Passing the Time in John Foss,
QuaranTEEN
Janeah Castillo, history teacher and coach
senior I played a lot of golf during
I’ve been doing social media and quarantine.
working out. I get paid and sponsored
on platforms such as Instagram and I learned to play after graduating
By Chrishawn Miller Jonmark Fore,
tik-tok. from college.
Staff Reporter science teacher and coach
I enjoy it because it can be very
I just posted more and became more For the past year, students and staff of the “Vista Family” A hobby that I somewhat relearned
challenging
while in quarantine was basic
confident in my body to post about have struggled during the COVID-19 quarantine. gardening.
my weight loss journey. I like it the best when I hit a few
To pass the time and to maintain their physical and mental good shots
I learned a lot of this while growing
We were in the house all the time, health, some of them took on new activites. up on a farm, however; learning to It is an outdoor activity that
and I needed something to do other Here are some of their stories. grow crops in the desert was a new is still allowed during the
than sleeping and eating. I wanted a challenge for me. quarantine.
lifestyle change.
Sydne Hooper, I picked this hobby because my goal Usually I play with some friends.
I benefit myself and the community senior is to always be as self-sufficient as
because I promote nothing but I got a job as an indoor playground possible.
positivity, and I make money while monitor I first learned it growing up on our
doing it. family farm in Kentucky.
I needed a job to make some money
and save up for a car. This activity helped us grow our own
tomatoes and corn, and we became
An added benefit was to be able to get a bit more self sufficient in terms of
out and socialize during the pandemic. food production.
I am now able to make a consistent
income and buy things I need or want.
Jennifer Padilla, Jadon Vega,
senior senior
While being in quarantine, I have done a lot of cleaning and organizing, and I found so many clothes I took a drone certification class at Ty’s Place in North Las Vegas through Jobs for Nevada’s
that I do not wear or do not fit me, so I have started to sell them online and make money Graduates.
I started to do this because I had so many clothes that I needed to get rid of and I saw other people on- The only thing that was pretty much required was just to stay persistent in showing up to the classes
line selling clothes online. and wanting to learn.
I chose to start selling clothes because I wanted to make money and it was a better idea than just
throwing the clothes away. The program took about 12 weeks to finish and now I’m certified to fly drones. In order to fly a
drone under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107), you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from
I would like to say I benefit myself from selling clothes by being able to clean out my cluttered closet the FAA . This certificate demonstrates that you understand the regulations, operating requirements,
and benefit buyers who are looking for good quality clothes at a really good price. I sell everything from and procedures for safely flying drones, meaning I now know the safety requirements and
never-worn $300 jeans to $100 dresses and tops between about $15-$60 because I want other people to measurements in order to fly drones in certain areas and job sites.
feel good about themselves and what they wear without paying the price.
I would say the class wasn’t very difficult at all just as long as you paid attention as the instructor.
Luckily he was very cool and helpful.
Page 12 FEATURES FEATURES Page 13
COVID-19 at SVHS Mountain Lion Administration First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage...
Global Disease
Team Adds Two New Members Then Comes Baby in a Baby Carriage
Photo Courtesy of Steve Smith
Hits SVHS Faculty
By Jayniel Arreola “I enjoy both online classes and By Jayniel Arreola Before the arrival of his daughter, Math teacher Patrick Panknin and his
Close to Home Assistant Editor
and Jade Noochan
physical school,” Carbajal said. “As a
teacher, teaching on-line made me become
Assistant Editor Gaitan and his wife celebrated safely with
a small group of family members.
wife Grace also have a new baby girl. She
was born at Summerlin Hospital on Jan. 29
By Seth Polston Staff Reporter more organized and opened my eyes to the Three teachers at Sierra Vista High “We had a small group of family at 3:49 pm.
Staff Reporter world of on-line instruction. It also helped School have had a life-changing experience members to celebrate, mostly our parents Panknin shared the story behind the
Sierra Vista High School welcomes me grow as a teacher. I of course prefer over the past year: they became fathers! and siblings,” Gaitan explained. “My wife baby’s name, Abigail Lee Panknin. It had
As COVID-19 has ravaged the Unit- English teacher Steve Smith and his wife Rose two professional educators to its admis- classes to be in person, but have learned Secial education teacher Pierre Gai- also held a small baby shower and we had meaning behind it and was of significant
have recovered from COVID-19. tration team: Student Success Coordinator a great deal while on this new learning
ed States, many people have been infected tan and his wife Kelsey also have a new packages being delivered all day for a few importance to them.
Photo Courtesy of Patrick Panknin
and recovered, but some do not survive. Luckily, she had support from of her Elizabeth Carbajal and Athletic Director platform.” baby girl. who was born at Summerlin weeks.” “Her first name is Biblically-based
Two of the English teachers at Sierra husband to help her cope with the effects Kenneth Gibson. While much of her current experience Hospital Dec. 12, 2020, at 6:49 am. and her middle name is her grandmother’s
Vista High School have battled this virus, of the virus, despite being infected himself. Carbajal is glad to join the SVHS staff. is new, Carbajal is not new to education. “My wife and I named our daughter middle name as well,” he explained.
and another has experienced loss due to this “My biggest support was my husband, “I feel really fortunate to be part of this “I began teaching kindergarten in Evelynn Jade Gaitan,” he said. The new parents are overjoyed and
devastating disease. but he was also suffering from COVID at the school,” Carbajal said. 2008,” she said. “I have been teaching for Gaitan said that he was thrilled to thrilled to have a baby daughter to be part
English Teacher Steven Smith and his time,” she said. “We were trapped inside our Her role is a new one at SVHS, but one thirteen years, and I have been teaching in have a daughter. of the family.
wife also contracted COVID despite taking house with our 2-year-old daughter, which that she hope will be valuable. CCSD for eight years.” “I found out that we were having “My wife and I were so excited,” he
all the recommended precautions. made us all a little crazy, but we were in it A student success coordinator provides a baby during the Covid lockdown,” he said. “We have been together for over ten
“My wife was infected by a coworker together.” leadership in the areas of behavior, advo- said. “But once we got the news, my wife years and married for four,” Panknin said Math teacher Patrick Panknin (right) and his
at her work who ignored the safety pre- For African-American Experience and cates for students, helps resolve problems and I were ecstatic. It turned an odd year happily. “We have always wanted to have a wife Grace with their new daughter Abigail.
cautions,” Smith explained. “He infected English teacher Kenneth Brown, the COVID that prevent students learning, and supports dealing with Covid into an exciting one for family and are excited to be starting it with
Photo Courtesy of JonMark Fore
a couple of others at her work, too, but he experience was far more traumatic. He expe- student achievements. my wife and me.” a baby girl.” “Abigail sleeps pretty well at night,
has apologized to us. rienced a devastating loss when his mother “I want my students to become their Gaitan said that he absolutely loves Panknin has so many thoughts rushing but sometimes it’s difficult to get her to
Photo Courtesy ofKenneth Gibson
“His mother was also infected as was passed away from COVID in mid-January. best selves and reach their full potential being a father for Evelynn. through his mind at the thought of being a sleep at times.“ Panknin said. “She also
his brother,” Smith continued. “They were Brown believes COVID has not only through hard work,” Carbajal said. “Seven weeks into being a dad and I dad for the first time. loves to make messes and always loves to
not able to quartentine from one another an great physical impact, but also a mental Carbajal became a teacher because she loved it,” he said. “I really like seeing her “I am very excited to be a parent,” he smile!“
in the home as well as my wife and I did, impact on the people who contract it. wanted students to reach their full potential. grow from week to week.” admitted. “This is my first child, so there Before she was born, Abigail’s par-
so he was actually infected again. All are “Humans are social creatures by our She models this idea after teachers that she Gaitan smiled and added, “Her little is so much unknown and uncertainty in the ents celebrated the baby shower and gender
recovered now though,” said Smith. biological design, so the desperation extends had as a student. yawns and smiles can really turn gloomy future. I just know that I want to be the best reveal parties quarantine style.
Luckily, the Smiths’ symptoms were not only to survival but also to the necessity “The teachers I had through my aca- days around. She’s been watching a lot of Science teacher Jonmark Fore’s new son, Zayne dad I can for her. I want to help her grow and “We did a gender reveal party that
demic career truly inspired me to become a Blasio Fore.
not as severe as other people’s, and they got of human connection” he said. “This can playoff football with me. I also secretly learn to become the best person she can be.” was socially distanced with just my family
tested relatively quickly. be imitated and initiated via technological teacher,” she said. “They motivated me and think she is becoming a Raiders fan. As of Science teacher Jonmark Fore and his Panknin realizes he will have to bal- and my wife’s family,” Panknin explained.
Kenneth Gibson is the new Athletic Director
“I noticed I had [the virus] about means, but there is little substitute for shar- helped me achieve my goals with guidance.“ right now, she is on a strict sleep, eat, and wife Leah recently had a baby boy. Zayne ance his teaching career with being a full- “For the baby shower, we did a drive-by to
at SVHS. He also teaches Aex classes and
three days after my wife was experiencing ing the same space and breathing the same Carbajal hopes to be able to help stu- coaches a variety of sports. bathroom schedule. Mostly in that order.” Blasio Fore was born at Spring Valley Hos- time father. maintain social distancing as well.”
cold-like symptoms,” he said. “That’s how air as another human being. dents transition between in-person classes pital on Jan. 20.
it started with me too, like a cold that got
worse. She gets tested all the time at work
“We’ve lost friends and family to this
pandemic, so we’re aware that the threat is
and on-line education, and she believes both
are valuable ways to learn.
Kenneth Gibson is the new Athletic
Director at SVHS. He is also an Apex
Fore and his wife spent much time
thinking about the name they gave their Carbajal, Gibson Join SVHS Faculty
so when it came back positive I knew I had real, and yet...still, we need people in the teacher and a coach. second child.
it too, and I got tested,” Smith said. corporeal sense,” Brown added. Gibson has been a teacher for many “For his first name, we wanted some- (Continued from Page 12) “You have to find common ground
English Teacher Amy Cropley was Despite his loss, Brown remains hope- years. Gibson had a clear view and a feeling thing that wasn’t too cliche, but also not Since then, he receives inspiration and let them know that you truly care about
affected by this illness, and despite recov- ful for the future of the community. in his gut that this was the career choice that something that he would have to explain all from the students themselves. them. As people it makes a huge difference
ering, she is still feeling some of its effects. “I do see a bit of hope on the horizon,” he wanted to pursue in his life. the time,” Fore said. “I know about strange “The students and players I have taught in helping develop those relationships,”
“I was very lucky,” she said. “I did he shared. “I remain cautiously optimistic “I knew I wanted to be a teacher names because I have a first name many and coached inspire me, because they go on Gibson said.
not get very sick overall, but I had a pretty that science can keep up with the relaxing when I entered college,” he said. “I would people seem to struggle with.” to do amazing things,” Gibson said. “That is At SVHS, Gibson will also be work-
Photo from SierraVistaHighSchool.org
bad headache for three full days, and I lost standards, and that we as a society have always get this feeling as if it would be a Fore feels confident about being a par- why they’re my biggest inspiration.” ing with the Apex program. Apex is a
Photo Courtesy of Pierre Gaitan
my sense of taste and smell. learned something about the inequities that very rewarding career for me.” ent because this is his second child. Gibson has a strong connection to his timely credit recovery course that allows
“You wouldn’t think it would be that need to be addressed in our country.” Like Carbajal, he was inspired by his “This is our second child, so while I’m students and players. students to get credit on their own time.
bad losing your taste and smell, but it was Brown hopes that people will have own teachers and coaches. not an expert, I have some experience now “I love working with the students and “It is a great program that really
actually very taxing on my mental health,” learned to be kinder to each other once the “The people in my life who had the and it gives me more confidence.” players, both in the classroom and on the helps some of the students,” Gibson said.
she explained. “Not being able to take pandemic has ended and social experiences biggest impact on me besides my parents Fore looks forward to providing for court,” he said. “It’s truly enjoyable while “Apex classes help to keep students on
comfort in food when you aren’t feeling are allowed to return. were my coaches and teachers,” he said. both of his children. watching students improve and learn.” track with their credits so that they do not
well is depressing. I am still suffering from “As we attempt to race ‘back to nor- “I had a tremendous respect for [them] and “Our goal with both of them is to give It seems as if teaching and coaching get left behind.”
those side effects today, about two months mal’ at neck-breaking speed, I hope that our decided that would be a great career for me them a loving and safe home, while also have been in Gibson’s life for a long amount Gibson believes that he made a
later. My smell and taste are back but only new normal is a safer and more considerate Elizabeth Carbajal has joined the SVHS staff to help do the same thing for my students.” Special education teacher Pierre Gaitan with making them as self-sufficient as possible,” of time now. He has learned how to develop perfect choice to become a teacher and a
at about 80% capacity.” one than existed before,” he said. as its first Student Success Coordinator. (Continued on Page 13) his new daughter Evelynn. he said. relationships with teens. coach.
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