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Bunnell High School * 1 Bulldog Blvd, Stratford, CT 06614 * Monday, September 30, 2013 * Volume LIII, Issue 1
Sophomores Get “Connected” to Community
Celeste Burnett
Editor
On Sept. 26th, BHS held its
11th annual Community Connections Program. The program,
for all sophomores, was held on
Bunnell’s Athletic Field. The program ran from 8:30 a.m. to10:10
a.m.
The program started when the
students gathered on the turf and
split into five different groups led
by the Ushers Guild members.
Mr. Christopher Koch reminded
students of appropriate behavior
and respectfulness.
Community Connections is
organized by Ms. Vicki Priddle,
Dr. Jennifer Vienneau, and Of-
ficer Patricia Tesla. They developed partnerships with various
community organizations to
make it easier for students to fully understand what the Stratford
Community has to offer.
“This was the 11th annual
year and it is a very successful
program. Students have been able
to get connected with the community on a different level, find
out about career options, and
work in the community. They get
connected and understand the
services available to them. The
most important thing is that the
students can sign up for volunteer hours,” Priddle explained.
The program is aligned with
Sophomores were grouped into five groups on the field while listening to
Mr. Koch. Photo Credit: Celeste Burnett
the sophomore civics classes
thanks to the collaborative efforts
provided by Priddle, Vienneau,
and Tesla.
“Community Connections
helps to foster relationships
between students and agencies.
I think they gain a sense of
knowledge, resources, contacts,
and some visual interests. This
also exposes students to different
programs, jobs, and information.
I just love when the kids see the
helicopter. . . ,” Officer Tesla said.
Tesla has been working with
Priddle and Vienneau for six
years, contributing to the Community Connections efforts.
Many of the community members did their part to participate
in this program.
Community Connections has
positively influenced students
over the years and contributed
to many successes in getting
students involved with the community.
“Community Connections
got me involved with Stratford
Recreation and I signed up for
volunteer hours. It got me motivated to get me involved in my
community. I joined BuildOn,”
senior Mary-Kate Early stated.
Lt. Bob Daniel, C.J., Tim O’Flynn, Chris Wieber, and Lt. Vendel Orban
of Company 4 stationed in Oronoque. Photo Credit: Celeste Burnett
“The Fire Department, believe
it or not, we do more than you
think. We aren’t just waiting
around for a fire, we do a lot
around the community like; fire
prevention as well. It’s important
to talk to students now about
this career. It’s hardest nowa
days, because schooling is such
an important part of this job.
Schooling is very important to
get these positions,” Lt. Vendel
Orban explained.
“This is a good oppurtunity
for them to learn of the different
branches of the Community
and reap the benefits,” Sgt. Erin
Ronca of the Air-Force Reserve
explained.
The program had many
different stations spread out on
the field. Thecommunity participants included: The Stratford
Fire Department Company 4
from Oronoque, Stratford State
Police, CT Career Bus, Stratford
Community Services, South-End
Community Services, American
Cancer Society (Relay for Life),
Stratford Police Department K-9
Patrol, Stratford Volunteer EMS
(included students from SHS)
and Stratford Parents Place.
Scott Wins Presidency Senior Parking Takes a Turn
Lizzie Cerino
Editor
Secretary Lawrence Lam, Vice President Monika Hlinka, President Rachel Scott, and Treasurer Joseph Pellegrino. Photo Credit: Lizzie Cerino
making the four years memoraLizzie Cerino
ble.”
Editor
Class Secretary Lawrence Lam
Class elections were held this
stated, “I’m excited this position
week for class of 2017 officers,
opened up and that I’m guarand Rachel Scott won the posianteed a spot on class council
tion of class president. “I want
because I’m more than honored
to make a positive influence on
to be able to take part in leading
my class to make them successand taking care of the class of
ful,” president Rachel Scott said.
2017.”
Running unopposed in all other
“My chief concern is making a
positions, Monika Hlinka will
be class vice president, Lawrence
positive impact on my classmates
and leading them to the best
Lam will be class secretary, and
Joseph Pellegrino,who was runof my ability,” treasurer Joseph
ning against Scott for president,
Pellegrino said.
will be class treasurer.
“I would like to see them get
Monika Hlinka, elected vice
the freshmen class ainvolved and
president said “I look forward
raise as much money as possible,”
to getting to know my peers and
class advisor Mr. Rooney stated.
School Spirt
Page 3
New Superintendent
Page 4
The Class of 2014 is seeing
many changes to parking this
year. Seniors now have to pay 25
dollars for a parking pass, 15 dollars more than last year's pass. In
addition, seniors will no longer
be able to park in the previously
named “senior parking lot” located to the north of BHS.
Senior Liz Ruggiero is upset
about the price of the parking
pass, “I think it is ridiculous that
they upped the parking pass to
$25.”
The “senior parking lot” is
now designated for staff parking,
and the seniors will park in the
lot in front of BHS, located to the
right of the tennis courts.
According to Principal Dr.
Dudley Orr, the price of parking
passes is being raised because
it has not been raised for a few
years. “We felt we were lower
than other districts,” Orr said.
BHS uses some money to
keep the parking lot in good condition. Orr noted that the money
is not only profit. As in the past,
students return an application
The Mortal Instruments:City of
Bones Review Page 5
and payment to receive their
sticker.
Dr. Orr explained that the
district underwent a security
inspection in March 2013 by the
state police. The police department recommended that students
“We felt we were lower than
other districts,” Principal Dr.
Orr said, regarding the new
price of the parking passes.
park closest to the door. Dr. Orr
stated that having students in the
main lot is safer for evacuation.
"We always listen to the police,"
Dr. Orr said.
After the inspection, the police
also recommended that BHS
install a system to further ensure
safety. This new system will allow
teachers to swipe a card to gain
access in and out of school before
and after school hours. BHS has
not implemented this change yet.
“I think that that would increase
safety. It would definitely help
me,” English teacher Mrs. Braniff
said.
Seniors were very unhappy
with the news of parking price
Sports
Page 7
increase. They were upset to hear
they would not get to take advantage of parking in the senior
lot. "I think it is ridiculous, I was
so annoyed after waiting three
years," senior Allie Sajda said.
Seniors are also upset that
some teachers are continuing to
park in the front lot. They question why they are not allowed
to park in the old senior lot if
the teachers are continuing to
park in the front lot. “It is a load
of rubbish that we cannot park
in the senior lot,” senior Matt
Varney said.
"If it keeps the students safe,
then I am happy to park wherever I need to," social studies
teacher Mr. Roberts said.
Science teacher Mrs. Cline is
only concerned with the absent
walkway which leads from the
new teacher parking lot to the
building. “The major concern
is that there is no pathway in
inclement weather,” Cline said.
Some seniors are not bothered
about the change. “I honestly do
not care. I still get to park my car;
it is closer to the front door we
all go in anyway,” senior Priscilla
Mahar said.
New Teacher Features
Page 8
Page 2
NEWS AND BRIEFS
September 2013
Upcoming Band and Guard Win First Competition
Events
Tajea Walton
Staff Reporter
Sept. 26
Community Connections on Turf Field
Oct. 5
SAT Administration at BHS
8 a.m.
Oct. 11
First Marking Period Progress Reports
Oct. 16- Oct. 17
Underclassmen Photos
Oct. 17
8th Grade Orientation - Parents Only
Auditorium
6:30 p.m.
Oct. 18
Senior Class Assemblies:
Breast Cancer for Women;
Driving Safety for Men
After practicing two nights
a week throughout the whole
summer, the Marching Band took
home a first place trophy at their
first competition of the season at
Danbury High School.
The 140 band members
played several pieces of music as
a tribute to the 50th anniversary
of the Beatles. “The Beatles have
great music. Ten years ago, we
did a 40th anniversary tribute
to The Beatles. Judges awarded
many points, students enjoyed
it, and the crowd loved it, “ said
Mr. Miller, band director, when
asked as to why he decided to do
a tribute to the 50th anniversary
of The Beatles.
“The first competition went
well. We were all very nervous
and excited, “ said Heaven Sealy,
a senior drum major. The band
didn’t compete against any other
teams. In fact, only two bands
performed at the event in different divisions, meaning they both
took home first place trophies.
Band competitions are judged
on many different kinds of
criteria. They are judged on the
quality of their music, quality of
performance, and the way they
march. They are also judged
on how the effectiveness and
entertainment value of the performance. Members in the band
include students from Flood,
Wooster and Stratford High as
well.
The band includes four drum
majors Heaven Sealy and Patrick
Barnum, who are seniors, and
Andrew Velasquez and Brady
Shea, who are juniors. There are
also eight elected officers.
“We have been doing fairly
well, but there’s a lot we can
work on. The practices can be
Oct. 19
PSAT Administration at BHS
8 a.m.
Nov. 2
SAT Administration at BHS
Cavalcade of Bands
Nov. 5
Election Day - No School for Students
Nov. 8
End of First Marking Period
Nov. 8
Health and Medical Careers Expo
at Housatonic College all day
Nov. 9
Homecoming Dance
Oronoque Country Club
7- 11 p.m.
Nov. 11
Veterans Day Assembly/Guest Speakers
Nov. 13
Electives Fair
Parent Conferences
Early Closing 12:25 p.m. Dismissal for Students
Calling All Artists!
The Scribe is in need of a new
logo. We invite all artists to
submit their original designs
electronically to the Scribe. The
winner will be selected by the
editors and will receive a $25 gift
card to 16 Handles. The winner
will relinquish the rights of the
logo to the Scribe staff.
Drum majors Andrew Velasquez, Patrick Barnum, Heaven Sealey, and
Brady Shea. : Photo credit: US Bands
(From left to right) Miguel Legaspi (SHS) Jose Vasquez, Thomas Hong,
Jordan Sells, and Erin MacLeod. Photo Credit: US Bands
rough but the guard usually pulls against anyone. The band didn’t
fall apart though which is always
it together for the performance.
a good thing. The band is doing
I’m proud of how much we’ve
pretty awesome as a whole
grown so far and I’m looking
forward to improving throughout though! “ Drum major Brady
Shea said.
the season. It’s always nice to
The band includes a section
win but I’d rather have a good
leader for almost every kind
performance than a good score,”
of instrument. This includes
Guard captain Elise Sotolongo
Woodwind Caption, Brass Capsaid.
tion, Percussion Caption, Flute,
The band is known throughClarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet,
out Connecticut and many
Low Brass ,French Horn ,Snares,
other states as an award-winning
and Tenors.
marching band. In 2011, at the
Band members are looking
Connecticut State Championforward to a successful year and
ships, the band won 1st Place.
hope to give a great show. “In
They were also awarded Best
band, I have an important job as
Color Guard, Music, General
a tuba player. My goal in band
Effect, & Percussion. Also in
is to do as good or even better
2011, they took home another
as we did my freshmen year
1st place trophy at the USSBA
when we won States. This year
Indoor competition in Trenton,
we have a good show and I want
New Jersey.
to make the Beatles proud by
“We weren’t amazing since
giving the best show I can,” band
it was only our first competition,
member and junior Henry Guasp
but it went pretty well, even
said.
though we unfortunately weren’t
Bulldog Briefs: From All Four Corners
Monika Hlinka
Staff Reporter
SKATENG is continuing their
efforts in recycling and maintenance of school grounds, which
includes adding flowers, such as
perennials and annuals, to Bunnell’s landscape. This year, the
club also plans on competing in
the statewide recycling competition. After finishing in 4th place
last year, the club hopes to win
this year. SKATENG Club is also
preparing to decorate the bulletin
board outside Dr. Wrubel’s room
with environmental quotes,
news, and comics which will be
changed on a regular basis.
National Honor Society is
having a new-member induction
ceremony in mid-November and
is now accepting applications.
They have plans to distribute
leftover school supplies from last
year if teachers are in need of
supplies. They will also volunteer for Habitat for Humanity,
and facilitate Alumni Day.
FEA, also known as the Future Educators Association has
restructured and is an active club
this year. FEA gives members an
opportunity to work with children and study what teachers do.
See Mrs. Croteau in room D4 for
details about meeting days and
club essentials.
Recently, STAGE elected its
new officers, Elizabeth Ruggerio, Producer; Kevin Kiley,
President; Stephanie Kaesman,
Vice President; Tommy Smith,
Treasurer; Monet Monterroso,
Secretary. The title of the play is
yet to be determined. The show
will be performed December 12,
13, and 14 in the Elden H. Dustin
Auditorium.
Upcoming college fairs:
The New England Association
for College Admission Counseling Fair will be held at Sacred
Heart University in the William
H. Pitt Center Sunday, October
6 from 2-4 PM. On October 8,
a College/ Career Expo will be
held at Stratford High School
from 6:30-8 PM. The Danbury
Fair Mall will be hosting a
College Fair on October 21 at
5 PM where there will be more
than 250 two-year and four-year
colleges, nursing schools, and
business and trade schools. For
more information on college
fairs, visit the National Association for College Admission’s
website at www.nacacnet.org
Anime Club meets every
Wednesday from 2:15-3:30 p.m.
in the Library Conference Room
to discuss books, movies and/or
other graphic novels that involve
manga and anime drawings. The
club uses online sites for creating
their own drawings and will be
exploring and learning more
about the Japanese tradition. The
club officers are Sean O’Keefe,
President;Yvonne Hinds,Vice
President; Martin Dermastja,
Treasurer. Anyone interested in
joining should see Mrs. Hubler in
the library, or one of the officers
for more information.
Editors: Celeste Burnett and Lizzie Cerino
Staff: Celeny Galpin, Alex Ghajar, Katya Gonzalez, Monika Hlinka, Rebecca Marrero, Monet Monterroso,Tajea Walton
Advisor: Mrs. Jennifer Record
The Scribe, the official, student run newspaper of Bunnell High School, is published on a monthly basis, as a product of the journalism course
at Bunnell High School. These publications welcome submissions from the student body and staff of Bunnell High School. However, the
views expressed in the Scribe do not necessarily reflect the views of the district, administration, students, or staff of the Scribe. Letters to the
editor are welcomed; letters must be signed but names will be withheld upon request. Students interested in enrolling in the journalism
program for the 2014-2015 academic year should contact their guidance counselor, or see Mrs. Record in D5 for more information.
The Mission of Bunnell High School: Students will acquire content knowledge, strengthen higher order thinking, and develop
character in order to address 21st century challenges.
The School Store, otherwise
known as the Dawg House, has
marked its second year stationed
in the Peer Mediation room and
is seeing an increase in sales.
On average, the school store
has doubled their sales since
last year. The goal of the school
store is to increase school spirit
throughout the school. “School
store progress is great. We have
many new additions, such as
polo shirts, geared more towards
the staff, but are available to
all. We are working very hard
towards getting everyone to recognize that our school colors are
royal blue, grey, and gold,” advisor Mrs. Alice Coleman stated.
Open House this year was a success, and the store made a huge
profit. Parents were lined up
outside of the door. The school
store is expected to do well this
year and continue increasing the
spirit at BHS.
September 2013
NEWS
BHS Dawg Pound Beats the Heat
Bunnell Varsity Cheerleaders at the pep rally. Photo credit: Monet Monterroso.
Monet Monterroso
Staff Reporter
Due to the 93 degree heat,
the Pep Rally on Sept. 11 wasn’t
exactly ideal. Junior Matt Smarz
stated, “The pep rally was hot.
The weather definitely affected
everyone!”
Even with the heat, some
people enjoyed the opportunity
to show their school spirit. Senior
Samantha Vera said, “In my opinion, it was too hot to be having
a school pep rally, but Dance
Team made the best of it and
performed a really great dance
that they have been working hard
on. As manager, I think they did
amazing.”
After performances by the
Select Choir, Marching Band
and Color Guard, Dance Team,
and the Varsity Cheerleaders
there was a trivia contest where
standouts from each grade competed against one another. There
were trivia questions dealt with
sports. Freshman Abby Bociek
said, “I thought it was fun but too
hot.” The seniors won the trivia
contest and the entire senior class
was given free tickets to the first
football game of the year.
Teachers also enjoy the pep
rally. Mr. Burgos said “Oh it was
hot. It was shorter than usual
but I thought it was great. I’m
pumped up for the fall sports.”
Mr. Johnson stated, “It was a cool
pep rally under hot conditions.
School spirit has vastly improved.
I think it’s because it has been a
team effort. Student leadership
should be commended: Captains
Council and Student Government. Also, administration has
been a big help, and especially
Mrs. Coleman. She has done so
much to help with school spirit.
The coaching through their committment has helped with school
spirit. Yesterday was an example
and Captain’s Council did a great
job organizing it.”
Not only is Captain’s Council
in charge of keeping up Bunnell’s
school spirit, but Mrs. Coleman
contributes to the spirit of the
school by supervising the planning of this year’s Homecoming Spirit Week, which begins
on Monday, Nov. 4th through
Saturday Nov. 9th. The week will
culminate with the Homecoming
football game, held on Nov. 8th
against New Fairfield at 7pm.
The location of the Homecoming Dance will not be the usual
Trumbull Marriott, but instead
at the Oronoque Country Club.
“It should be very nice and a different feel. At the Marriott there
was too much open dead space.
You don’t want to feel like you’re
in your living room by yourself,”
Mrs. Coleman said when asked
about the venue change. The
dance will be held from 7pm to
11pm and is open to all grades.
The price should stay the same
at $35.00 with a canned good,
which will be donated to Sterling
House. Homecoming T-shirts
will be sold again this year. “This
year’s design will be done by the
Government themselves,” stated
by Ms. Coleman. That price
should also be the same as last
years, $10.00.
Student Government has been
very busy with other fall activities
they are organizing (Freshmen
Elections and Thanksgiving Food
Drive) and have not announced
the Spirit Week theme day. In the
past, the theme days have includedwith Hat Day, College Day and
Twin Day.
Page 3
Bulldog
Buzz:
How do you feel
about the new school
calendar?
Katya Gonzalez
Staff Reporter
Sammuel Davis: “It’s good …
I guess … I just wish we didn’t
lose our February break though.”
Kiara Vazquez: “The new calendar doesn’t really bother me.
I just can’t wait for summer and
the closer it is the happier I am.”
Seniors Nolan Aurelia, Andrick Bernadel, Anthony Johnson, Ben
Ruskin, Josh Poisson, Travis Perricone, and Athletic Director Mr. Johnson line up to speak at the pep rally. Photo credit: Monet Monterroso.
Second Floor Gets Air-Conditioning
Celeste Burnett
Editor
On July 1, work crews began
bringing supplies to BHS to
install the air-conditioners. The
installation took about six weeks
and ended on Aug. 16th. The
complete process cost the district $400,000 to complete. The
installation went smoothly and
efficiently.
“While we did have a problem
with one [air-conditioning] unit
kicking off, it was fixed within a
matter of days. But everything
went great with installing the
air-conditioners. It’s one of the
most efficient systems you can
buy,” Principal Dr. Dudley Orr
said.
Air conditioning at BHS has
always been a controversial topic
for the student body. When news
broke last year that the school
would be installing multiple
air-conditioning units throughout the school, students reacted
positively.
“I am so glad to finally have
air-conditioners upstairs. Being
here last year without air-conditioners in June was brutal. I literally thought about nothing else
besides the heat. I’m so glad that
they finally installed the air-conditioners. Now I can finally work
in extreme heat and not feel it,”
senior Megan Zacchia said.
Among the air-conditioning
installation, the school also had
window reflectors placed on the
A new air-conditioning unit in room B211. Photo Credit: Celeste Burnett
windows. These reflectors are
expected to help reduce the heat.
The special reflectors are said
to reflect sun rays away from
the building and keep rooms
cooler without excessive use of
the air-conditioners. They wil
also aid in keeping sun rays from
coming in and glaring off of the
SmartBoards.
The installation ended on
Aug. 22nd. “I am so happy that
after 53 years we finally dealt
with the problem of heat on
the second floor and I think
we should go out of our way to
thank the Board of Education for
their support. I think it [having
air-conditioning] makes it possible to teach on the second floor.
It opens up the possibility to do
more over the summer as well,”
Dr. Orr said.
Although the heat battle has
been won, some students are
finding that certain rooms may
get too cold throughout the day
due to temperature change outside of the classroom.
“One time I’m just sitting
in class and then I have to pull
out my sweater because it is so
cold. I think it is because the
teachers are not able to control
the temperature. It is usually
colder in the morning than it is
in the afternoon so then when
the thermometer stays the same
its conflicting with the change in
temperature,” senior Tahari Davis
said.
One other concern of the
student body is the inability
to change the temperatures
throughout the day. Most rooms
remain at a constant temperature and the thermometers are
safely locked so it is impossible
to move.
“No one can turn the temperatures to anything besides 72
degrees. The thermometers will
remain at a constant 72 for the
school year. It is a comfortable
temperature even with the humidity factor. It [air- conditioning] is long overdue. It gets so hot
up there. Before school ended Dr.
Orr and I went up there to check
the room temperatures and they
were between 94 and 97 degrees.
You can’t learn when it’s hot.
You just can’t focus. But now it’s
a pleasure to be up there,” Head
Custodian Mr. Ray Bukovchik
explained.
In order to beat the chilly
weather it is recomended to bring
a small sweater and scarf to wear
in between classes.
Second floor classrooms
are now the ‘place to be’ once
April rolls around. Lastly, it is
important to make sure that the
new installations remain clean
and running smothly. Be sure to
keep sharp things away from the
windows or the reflectors could
peel off.
Quadry Bines: “I like it because
I don’t do anything during February break anyway and a longer
summer is better.”
Thomas Sullivan: “I’ll miss
having a longer February break
…But I guess having a few extra
days of summer is pretty nice
too.”
Mr. Robert Studley: “I love it!
Extra 3 weeks in June is gonna
feel great.”
Page 4 NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT
September 2013
New Superintendent Robinson Ready for Change
Lizzie Cerino
Editor
The Stratford School District
has a new leader, Superintendent Dr. Janet M. Robinson.
Beginning her tenure on July 1,
Robinson arrived ready to change
the teacher evaluation program,
Common Core State Standards
for math and English, and improve literacy in the upcoming
year.
"I think she is very knowledgeable, very professional, and
very personable. I think she is the
perfect person to run our district
for the foreseeable future," Principal Dr. Orr said.
Dr. Robinson has experience
in the education field. Robinson
has worked as a teacher, counselor, and school psychologist
during her years in education.
After moving from Anaheim, California, her first job
in Connecticut was as a school
psychologist. Robinson was also a
consultant working in New York
City while living in Connecticut.
Before coming to Stratford, Robinson served as Superintendent
in Preston, Derby, and Newtown.
Robinson said she chose the
Stratford School District because
of Stratford's diversity. Robinson
also shared that when she first
met the Stratford Board of Education, she was very impressed
with their dedication to the children. Robinson had previously
worked with CES (Cooperate Educational Services) in Trumbull.
Because of her work there, she
was already familiar with people
from Stratford schools and had
also met with the Stratford Board
of Education about curriculum,
technology, and grants.
Robinson has a strong vision
for Stratford schools. She wants
to "build a strong district organization for continuous learning
and advancement. . ." She noted
that since education is always
changing, Stratford should "build
a collaboration that is flexible
about changing." The world of
technology today is "a different
world," as Robinson explained
it. "We have to embrace new
concepts and learning," Robinson
said.
She also wants to focus on
improving literacy and achieving state requirements this year,
which include both a new evaluation plan for teachers and new
Common Core State Standards
for math and English.
In her letter to the Stratford community posted on
the Stratford Schools website,
Robinson explains how over
the summer, the administrative
team, comprised of principals
and administrators completed 9
days of training about the new
Dr. Robinson in her office on East Broadway. Photo credit: Lizzie Cerino
teacher evaluation plan being
implemented this year in all
schools. Robinson explained that
for 2014, new teacher evaluations
will be based on a number of
things. According to Robinson,
teacher evaluations will consist
of teacher observations, student
progress, such as results on standardized tests, and surveys completed by students and parents.
Teachers’ participation in school
activities outside of the classroom
is also a contribution.
Common Core is a set of
educational standards that Connecticut has adopted. To begin
this implementation, Robinson
has looked through the math and
English curriculum to see what
topics are being taught at what
levels, to make sure standards
are not missing, and to decide
what should be taken out of the
curriculum.
Robinson has also been looking at recent CAPT and CMT
scores, and hopes to limit or
eliminate the number of students
who receive the "below basic"
score.
Also new this year will be the
visits of the Senior Leadership
team, comprised of principals in
the Stratford district, in classrooms. All the principals from
various schools will break up
and visit classes. This will help
"ensure that teachers are supported in their efforts to provide high
quality instruction," as Robinson
wrote in her letter.
Robinson is enjoying her
experience so far. "I like it most
when I am out in the schools,"
Robinson said. She noted that her
welcome has been very warm and
inviting.
Robinson believes that her
experience as Superintendent is
making her a better leader and
that the most rewarding thing
about her position is learning to
see the growth of students.
She also views graduation as
a very emotional time for her,
since everyone comes together
to celebrate the students' success.
She enjoys going into first grade
classrooms and observing them
while they read books that they
have written. She finds this "very
powerful."
Outside of the office, Robinson enjoys playing golf in her free
time.
Robinson envisions building
a strong collaboration between
schools. She believes working
together and flexibility are extrememly important in order to
accomplish these goals. "I don't
want Stratford to be a system of
schools, I want it to be a school
system," Robinson said.
The Truth About: The Human Brain
Celeste Burnett
Editor
There are many common
misconceptions that involve the
human brain, how it works and
what it does for the human body.
Old wives tales that have been
passed down for years include
the infamous myth that a person’s
personality can be determined
by which side of their brain is
the dominant side (right versus
left brain debate)and people also
believe that humans only use 10
percent of their brain on a daily
basis, also that the brain is a grey
color, and that certain genres of
music enhance intelligence.
One controversial topic is
the debate about the right brain
versus left brain topic. The left
side of the brain is often depicted
as the more controlling side that
is in charge of things such as,
Photo Credit: Google Images
linear thought processing, verbal
activity, science/ math, and otherwise called the logical side. The
right side of the brain is believed
to be the relaxed part of the brain
which includes functions such as
holistic thought process, fantasyrelated thoughts and ideas, and is
the more artistic side of the brain.
“I don’t believe that because,
although I’m pretty good at math
and things related to it, I consider
myself an artistic person which is
a little confusing,” senior Neyra
Benoit said.
Either way, many people feel
in touch with their artsy side
while still being able to excel in
the more complex math classes.
The myth that humans only
use ten percent of their brain is
not a very truthful statement. The
truth is that most, if not all, areas
of the brain have a function.
Some may function to a lesser
extent than other important areas
such as the memory or consciousness areas.
“Though factors of intelligence
can increase with training, the
popular notion that large parts
of the brain remain unused, and
could subsequently be ‘activated’,
rests more in popular folklore
than scientific theory,” reports
Wikipedia.com.
“If the 10 percent myth were
true, people who suffer brain
damage as the result of an accident or stroke would probably
not notice any real effect. In
reality, there isn’t a single area of
the brain that can be damaged
without resulting in some sort of
consequence,” Psychology.about.
com assists.
The brain works in mysterious ways. But this vital organ
remains hidden to the human
eye on a daily basis. People often
find themselves knowing little
about its color and the process
that contributes to how the body
functions.
People often hear of grey
matter in the brain. Grey matter
is a major part of the central
nervous system. Grey matter’s
main function is to route senses
or stimulants to the brain. Although this matter has the name
of a color it does not mean that
the brain takes a grey color. The
brain is actually a pinkish color
with a texture similar to jelly. The
only time the human brain may
appear to be grey is when it has
been removed from the body for
an extended period of time or has
been preserved.
Photo Credit: Google Images
“On TV shows, like cartoons,
we see the brain being shown as
either grey or pinkish in color. It
can get really confusing for kids
or just a younger audience in
general. They would end up not
knowing the truth and not knowing which is a lie,” senior Eldine
Lazarre said.
Many expecting parents find
themselves going to extreme
lengths to ensure that the health
of their child is as best as it
can possibly be. Stereotypically, parents want an intelligent
toddler, and one rumored way
to help ensure this is by listening to Mozart. This couldn’t be
further from the truth. Music is
indeed an important component
in anyone’s life and can benefit
the listener in numerous ways,
but the genre of music does not
promise any special knowledge
enhancement to its listener.
Finally, some interesting and
‘fun facts’ about the human brain
include: the brains weight which
is a total of three pounds, the
skin weighs twice as much as the
brain, the brain is made up of 75
percent water, the brain contains
100 billion neurons, and the
brain does not contain any pain
receptors so it can not feel pain.
The brain is the fattest organ
in the body, which contains 60
percent fat. The brain stops growing at age 18, reading outloud
promotes brain development,
the brain uses 20 percent of the
body’s oxygen to function, the
brain can live up to four to six
months without oxygen before
it dies.
Knowing what some of its
functions are, the color it is, and
what truly enhances brain power
are important concepts to be
familiar with. It is important to
know certain things about the
brain since everyone has one.
Knowing little things can come
in handy later on in life.
September 2013
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 5
Film Review: The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones
Monet Monterroso
Staff Reporter
Fans of books tend to not be
fans of the movie version, almost
always claiming the statement
“the book is better than the movie.” Fortunately, the film version
of, The Mortal Instruments: City
of Bones, has been able to please
both crowds of readers and
non-readers of this New York
Times Best Selling Series.
Photo Credit: Google Images
The story starts with Clary
Fray, played by Lily Collins (Mirror Mirror), going to the Pandemonium Club with her friend
Simon Lewis, played by Robert
Sheehan (Season of the Witch).
When she enters the club, she
crazily witnesses a murder committed by three teenagers covered
in odd markings which we find
out later is Jace Wayland, played
by Jamie Campbell Bower (The
Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1), Alec Lightwood, played
by Kevin Zeggers (Titanic: Blood
and Steel), and Isabelle Lightwood, played by Jemima West
(Lines of Wellington). All three
are shocked by the fact that Clary
has the sight to see them and
becomes immediately interested
on how and why she has suddenly developed this sight.
She soon finds out that these
three teenagers aren’t human but
half human, half Angel and their
race is called Shadowhunters.
The Shadowhunters’ job is to
protect the world from demons,
to hunt and kill them. Unfortunately, during this encounter
with the Shadowhunters, Clary’s
mother, Jocelyn Fray, played by
Lena Headey (Game of Thrones),
is attacked by other demons
because she has stolen something
from the Shadowhunters’ world
and has hid it. The demons will
stop at nothing to get it. Clary’s
mother ends up disappearing and
the only way for Clary to find her
mother again is to join the Shadowhunters and figure out herself
that she is one of them.
The fast pace story has many
twists and turns but viewers
can always count on the movie
industry to make some storyline
changes. It is true that the movie
gave away the biggest spoiler in
the first movie that the books
held off on until the third book.
Fortunately, that is the only big
storyline change because all other
changes made support how the
director, Harald Zwart (The Karate Kid), intends to take the story
in the movie.
A reviewer on imdb.com
stated, “To get the Twilight
comparisons out of the way, yes
there is a love triangle and a
teenage girl has a romance with
a supernatural creature. But, The
Mortal Instruments: City of Bones
borrows much more from Harry
Potter…” There is a great amount
of action in this movie because
the book does allow a perfect
amount of battle scenes and the
battles aren’t overdone. These
give the viewer just enough of
that emotion to pull through the
raging battles. This movie should
be compared to the first Harry
Potter movie (Harry Potter and
the Sorcerers Stone), which had a
good start but still the awkward
flaws not knowing exactly where
the story will lead to. Hopefully
Harald continues with this series
and has it become just as much
of a masterpiece as the books. So
far the movie has done the book
great justice.
The movie was released on
Wednesday, August 21. The
adaptation of Cassandra Clare’s
first installment in a sprawling
five-novel series earned about
$14 million in five days, and just
$9.2 million over the traditional
box office weekend. It cost $60
million to make and $60 million
to market. Like the first Harry
Potter’s movie, it didn’t begin
with a big blockbuster sale.
Hopefully this doesn’t discourage
Sony and Screen Gems and they
Photo Credit: Google Images
has a slower beat. He describes
the album as being more emotional because of his move to
California. It is hard to tell if
the album is mainly about his
move to California or something
deeper because Drake also stated
that Marvin Gaye’s 1978 double
album “Here my Dear” had a big
influence on him and has driven
his current musical direction.
Later he told MTV that his
album wasn’t all rap, it never was
and never will be and that he
makes songs for people to really
listen to and enjoy. Many believe
that Drake is trying his best in
this new album to open up and
touch people’s emotion; by all the
rave, it seems that’s exactly what
he’s done. So far this album has
received only positive feedback.
Drake takes control and hits
home with this new album. Everyone seems to be enjoying such
an album especially the new song
“Hold On, We’re Going Home”.
Drake’s album was illegally
released, ‘leaked’’, out into the
internet without his authorization. The album was expected
to be released officially on Sept.
24th but many parts of the album
were ‘leaked’ out earlier in May.
The entire album was released,
Sept. 19th, almost a week before
the official release date. Drake
was disapointed that his album
was leaked but continued to look
towards the future.
People claim that they have al-
Photo Credit: Google Images
continue on with the rest of the
series adaptions into films.
PG13
Running Time: 130 min
Genre: Action/Adventure/Drama/Fantasy/Mystery/Romance
In Theaters Now
Music Review: Drake’s Nothing Was the Same
Celeny Galpin
Staff Reporter
At long last, Drake’s new
album has been released. As his
number one single “Started from
the Bottom” tops the charts,
it seems Drake has created
an award-winning album for
putting so much emotion and
passion into his music for people
to really relate with their own
situations.
“I think it’s nice and catchy.
My favorite song on the album is
“From Time.” It has a nice beat
and good lyrics,” Paulina Gonzalez said.
Critics are calling it both an
“amazing” album and “an experience to feel on your own”.
With all the other new albums,
including Kanye West and Jay-Z,
Drake came out with a beat
thanks to his competitions.
”I think it brings you back to
his lifestyle because the songs
talk about relationships and family. I just think its a really great.”
Clarinda Polynice said.
He waited for the just right
time when all the excitement
lessened from others and then
prompted everyone with his own
sound. He is known worldwide
for being able to rap as well as
sing vocally.
In this new album Drake
quotes that he wants “Nothing Was the Same” to be the
soundtrack of your life. Coming
from a rapper who is on his way
to becoming a legend this statement says so much about him. In
his new album Drake tries to tell
his life story and return to the kid
he once was.
Drake also states “‘Take Care’
is a great album but I listen to it
and realize where I can do better
and I think I’ve done better on
‘Nothing Was the Same.’”
This new album has more
of an emotional feel to it and
ready listened to the music prior
to the release date even though it
is illegal..
Songs on the album include:
“Own It,” “Connect,” “Furthest
Thing,” “Come Thru,” “The Language” and “Tuscan Leather.”
“While many are no doubt
waiting until the official release
so as not to admit they downloaded an illegally leaked copy,
others fired off reaction tweets,
ranging from A-Trak shouting
out the patriotic tracklist and
Odd Future’s Tyler The Creator
making an odd admission to
collaborator Chilly Gonzales
breaking down the piano bits and
various MCs debating Drake’s
“Wu-Tang Forever” song title (including Wu member Inspectah
Deck.)” Huffington Post stated.
The Bullpod: Top 5 Songs On Your iPod
Alexis Hartman
Freshman
1. 22 – Taylor Swift
2. We Can’t Stop – Miley Cyrus
3. I Knew You Were Trouble –
Taylor Swift
4. One Thing – One Direction
5. Same Love - Macklemore
Justin Anderson
Sophomore
1. Under - Pleasure P
2. Fumble – Trey Songz
3. She Ain’t You – Chris Brown
4. The Way – Ariana Grande ft.
Mac Miller
5. Flexin’ – Meek Mill
Ahyiana Morris
Junior
1. Where You Go – Ciara ft. Future
2. All Me – Drake
3. Part II (On The Run) – Jay-Z ft.
Beyonce
4. All Of Me – John Legend
5. I Luv It – August Alsina ft.
Trinidad James
Anthony Costa
Senior
1. Radioactive – Imagine Dragons
2. Mirrors – Justin Timberlake
3. We Own It – 2 Chainz
4. Same Love – Macklemore
5. Roar – Katy Perry
Mr. Roberts
Teacher
1. Wilco – Via Chicago
2. Backstreets – Bruce Springsteen
3. Circuital – My Morning Jacket
4. Do The Evolution – Pearl Jam
5. Brave – Sara Bareilles
September 2013
ADVERTISEMENT
Page 6
September 2013
SPORTS
Page 7
Soccer With a Good Kick-off Boys and Girls XC
Running Along
Celeny Galpin
Staff Reporter
Starting the season off with a
4-1 record, the BHS boys soccer
team seems confident about this
season. The coaches also seem to
be very pleased and thankful for
their players this year. “I’m very
pleased with the players and I
think it’s going to be a great year,
the players are very cooperative
and work together just fine,” said
head coach Mr. Jimmy Ginand.
Junior Juan Salazar, currently injured, said that the most
challenging game will be the one
against Joel Barlow on Sept. 28th.
Senior Chris Nava, questioned
how he felt about this upcoming
season, said “It’s going to be a
good season. All of us are good
friends and have been playing
soccer since we were younger kids so it should be a good
outcome.” When asked about the
contributions of his teammates,
he stated “I know my friend
Travis Perricone is going to
score many goals this year with
playing the forward position and
Eduardo Carmelo is going to
Varsity Boys Soccer run onto the field at the start of a game.
Photo Credit: Chrissy Klein, manager of the boys soccer team
be our brick wall playing back
in defense .Ginand is a good
coach who focuses on the little
things that can help us win more
games,” Nava said.
“I think we have a very good
chance of making it to the championship,” coach Ginand said.
So far all of the players have a
great attitude for the new season.
All of the other players seem to
have the same positive attitude
and confidence. The boys have
stepped up and taken control
with only losing one game so far,
losing to Pomperaug 4-1 on Sept
19.
Most recently, the team beat
Abbott Tech on Sept 21st, 2-0.
The team beat in-town rivals
Stratford High on Sept 17th, 3 to
1. They also beat Oxford on Sept.
13th, winning 5-1, and Kolbe
Cathedral, 2-1, on Sept. 11th.
The team hopes to make it to
the SWCs and state tournament
later in the season, bringing the
state trophy back to BHS after
their 2011 state championship.
Senior Josh Poisson, when
questioned about how he felt
about the season, stated, “I feel
pretty good. I think we’re going
to make it pretty far including
SWCs and States. We started off
pretty strong. We have a lot of
team chemistry, we all know each
other pretty good.” He was also
asked how he felt about coach
Ginand. “He knows what he’s doing; he motivates us pretty well”.
Varsity Boys Soccer share a team huddle. Photo Credit: Chrissy Klein
Photo Credit: Rod Jovanelly
Alex Ghajar
Staff Reporter
The boys team came up
out with a win at their meet at
Brookfield on Sept. 24. They beat
Oxford and Masuk, but lost to
Brookfield. The girls team beat
Brookfield and Masuk, but lost to
Oxford.
The boys and girls cross
country teams raced at Pomperaug against Pomperaug, Stratford
High, and Laurelton Hall. The
boys beat Stratford by a long shot
of 20 to 43, but lost to Pomperaug 46 to 17. This brought their
overall record to 3-2.
The girls lost to Pomperaug
21-34, but beat Laurelton Hall
19-36 and Stratford 20-41, making 2-1 for that meet and a total
record of 3-3.
Cross country hit the ground
running at the start of the
season with a 2-1 meet against
Kolbe Cathedral, Newtown, and
Immaculate at Roosevelt Forest,
their home trail. Ahsantay Manning, Junior and BHS’s number
one runner finished in first place
with a time of 18:52, beating, by
only one second, the next finisher from Newtown.
“I feel comfortable being
the best on the team…I worked
hard over the summer…I feel a
lot better than last year,” stated
Ahsantay.
Coach James Brown stated,
“I am pleased with the results
from the race, and am very
impressed with the athletes, but
we definitely have some room to
improve…I am happy with the
progress of the team this year. I
think that it is going very well.”
The girls cross country team
finished the race with a 1-2
record, beating Kolbe Cathedral,
but losing to the loaded teams
of Newtown and Immaculate.
Kolbe Cathedral was forced to
forfeit the race for they only had
one runner.
Volleyball “Set” to Win This Season
Alex Ghajar
Staff Reporter
Varsity won their fifth game in
a row against Lauralton Hall on
Sept. 24. The Varsity scores were
25-13, 25-15, and 25-13. JV won
their first game with a score of
23-25, 25-15, and 25-20.
Varsity won their fourth game
in a row on Sept. 23 against
Brookfield with scores of 25-11,
25-12, and 25-23. JV lost their
game with scores of 10-25 and
9-25.
The Varsity team came up with
a big win against their town rivals
of Stratford on Sept. 20, winning
3 out of 4 with scores of 25-28,
25-8, 23-25, and 25-15. JV lost
their game with scores of 17-25
and 11-25.
The Varsity came up with
another win against Pomperaug.
They won 3 out of 5 sets with
scores of 25-17, 25-20, and 2518. JV is struggling to find their
rhythm, losing their game with
scores of 11-25 and 13-25.
The Varsity team found their
rhythm in their third game on
Sept. 16 against Laurelton Hall.
They won 3 out of 5 sets with a
score of 25-17, 25-17, and 25-16.
JV didn’t have the same luck, losing 2 sets with a score of 18-25,
25-15, and 20-25.
Both the JV and Varsity teams
Juniors Jill Pastor, Jackie Williams, and Brooke Shannon share a team
handshake before the game. Photo Credit: Christine Shannon
struggled again in their second
game at home against Joel Barlow. The JV team lost 2 sets, with
the scores being 13-25 and 17-25.
The varsity team lost 3out of 4
sets they played, with the scores
being 21-25, 22-25, 25-22, and
21-25.
Volleyball had their season
opener on Sept. 11, 2013 against
Fairfield Ward on their home
court. The volleyball was spiked
on Bunnell with a loss for both
the JV and Varsity teams. JV lost
2 out of their 3 sets with a score
of 12-25 and 22-25 to the Fairfield Ward team. The big Varsity
opener game was lost with Bunnell losing 3 out of 5 sets with the
scores being 26-25, 25-16, 21-25,
20-25, and a finishing set of 5-15.
Madeleine Videira stated,
“Even though we lost, I think that
we played well. It was tough since
a lot of players are new to the
team, but by the end, we started
to come together.”
This is not the first game that
the team has played, even though
this is the first one that counted
in the divisional standings. When
coach, Garrett Covino was asked
about previous games that the
team played together, he replied,
“We traveled to a Tournament/
Saturday the 7th Preseason Jamboree with teams from all around
the state of Connecticut.” Some
Juniors Jackie Williams, Brooke Shannon, and Jill Pastor share a team
meeting. Photo Credit: Christine Shannon
hard work.” Sophmore Christiof the teams at the tournament
na Perez stated, “This team had
were Darien, Coventry, Southdefinitely gotten better. A lot of
ington, Foran, Ledyard, East
skills have been improved in the
lyme, Rham, Cheshire, Farmpractice that we have done in the
ington, and several more. Scores
last couple of weeks. Going over
of preseason games and tournaall of these skills in practice has
ments are not kept.
helped a lot too!”
Coach Covino stated about
The SWC Quarterfinals will
the progress of his team, “In the
be on October 28, 2013 at an
first two and a half weeks, the
unannounced time and area, and
girls have made very good progthe Semifinals will be two days
ress with improving. There are a
later at an undecided time and
lot of seniors on the team, giving
location.
us a good set of veterans to lead
the team to wins. The team work
is very good, and I am impressed
by the skill level increase form
the girls, especially with their
Page 8
TEACHER FEATURES
September 2013
Teacher Features: Get to Know New Faces at BHS
Mr. John Labate
Ms. Heather Sweeney
Lizzie Cerino
Editor
BHS welcomes back a familiar
face in the C Wing this year. Mr.
John Labate, who, last year, student-taught with science teacher
Ms. Kristen Record, returns this
year as a full-time science teacher. Labate is teaching Physics.
"I'm really excited he is back
working with the science department. He's going to be a great
addition to the C Wing. He's very
enthusiastic about teaching science," colleague Ms. Record said.
At the beginning of Labate’s career, he made airborne
instruments at Norden Systems
in Norwalk, CT. He also taught
chemistry and electricity informally at the Discovery Museum
in Stratford, CT for 16 years.
Labate described it as everything
he does at BHS "without a grade
book." For 2 years before coming
to BHS, he taught science at
Stratford High School.
After being laid off from
Norden Systems, he realized how
much he enjoyed teaching at the
Discovery Museum. Coming to
this realization, he said "I wanted
to do this for the rest of my life."
Labate's favorite thing about
teaching is when students come
to understand something they
did not before, or what he calls
the "light bulb effect." Labate said
that "sometimes it is a 100 watt
light bulb, sometimes 30, but I'll
take it no matter what."
Outside of the classroom,
Labate spends his time outside
hiking, biking, gardening, and
running around with his greyhound. He claims he does “physics when nobody’s watching.”
Ms. Anita Rusnak
New to BHS but not Stratford, Ms. Anita Rusnak joins the
Special Education department.
After working in Stratford for 24
years, she is "ecstatic" to join the
BHS family.
Rusnak is accompanying students in two English nine classes
with Ms. Gould and Mrs. Braniff,
and one Studies in Science class
with Mrs. Deluca. Rusnak helps
support the classroom teachers
and is there to help with anything
they may need. “I’m enjoying all
three experiences,” Rusnak said.
Since she has to be flexible, she
says there is "a lot of variation
to our jobs." She is also enjoying
teaching Resource Reading.
Rusnak began her education
career as a long-term sub at
Wooster Middle School. She has
been involved with Special Education at Center School on East
Broadway before it was closed,
Lordship Elementary School,
Eli Whitney Elementary School,
Stratford High School, Wooster
Middle School, and now BHS.
Rusnak knew she wanted
to become a Special Education
teacher since high school. In
high school, she was a member
of the fencing club, in which she
competed in fencing with special
education children. This experience motivated her decision
to become a special education
teacher.
Rusnak's favorite thing about
Special Education is its "variety."
The students she has worked with
are different ages, causing Rusnak
to "move around" with "different
people." Her job has many joys
and challenges, as Rusnak put it.
Rusnak is excited to be at BHS
because she enjoys the "adult
BHS is happy to welcome
Mrs. Houghton to the Bulldog
family. Joining the mathematics
department, Houghton is looking
forward to helping students
“learn and grow.”
Houghton is teaching Algebra
1 level one and two, and Intensive
Math 10.
Houghton was a math teacher
in Cincinnati Public Schools in
Ohio for 15 years and served as a
math coach working with teachers. She is happy to join the BHS
community
Houghton became a teacher
because she "really likes working with students. . ." and likes
"teaching math in an interesting
way." She enjoys helping students
understand math material in a
unique way. Houghton's favorite
thing about teaching is "watching
students learn and grow in math
knowledge."
Houghton feels very welcome
at BHS. Houghton noted that the
There is a new face in the
World Language department.
Spanish teacher Mrs. Marino is
enjoying her experience at BHS
so far.
Marino is teaching Spanish 2H
and Spanish 3H. Only teaching
two classes at BHS, she leaves
early to teach at Stratford High
later in the day.
Before coming to BHS,
Marino lived in Long Island and
taught Spanish and Italian at high
schools and middle schools there.
Marino has known she wanted
to become a teacher since eighth
grade. Her eighth grade Spanish
teacher "made everything fun
and interesting." Marino wanted
to be just like her someday.
Marino's favorite thing about
teaching is getting to know her
students. She enjoys helping
them get to know the Spanish
language better to allow them to
express themselves more fluently.
When Marino is not teaching,
she is usually busy with her son
doing Cub Scout activities, or is
attending his soccer or baseball
Ms. Heather Sweeney is the
newest addition to the Business
Department. Sweeney describes
her experience at BHS so far
as "a breath of fresh air.” Sweeney is teaching Introduction to
Business, Personal Finance, and
Keyboarding.
Before coming to BHS,
Sweeney was a long-term sub at
Region 16 in Beacon Falls and
Prospect. She also taught Business at North End Middle School
in Waterbury, CT.
Sweeney has always wanted
to be a high school teacher. Her
favorite thing about teaching is
"connecting with students and
gaining relationships with them."
Sweeney really enjoys teaching in
general.
Sweeney has felt very welcome
at BHS so far. "Everyone has
been very nice, supportive, and
helpful," Sweeney said. She noted
that teachers and Dr. Orr have
been very helpful.
When she is not teaching, she
enjoys working out and reading
business books.
"She's very enthusiastic. She
brings new ideas and technology. She fits in so well, and it
is apparent that she loves her
career. She's a breath of fresh air,"
colleague Ms. Priddle said.
Ms. Meredith Pacelli
environment of a high school."
Rusnak said the "sense of humor
is different on the high school
level." Everyone has been very
nice and welcoming, and Rusnak
says that BHS is home to "wonderful teachers."
Outside of school, Rusnak
enjoys volunteering at H.O.R.S.E.
of CT, a horse rescue in Washington, CT. Beginning 11 years ago,
she says that helping horses is her
“passion.”
Mrs. Diane Houghton
staff has been very supportive
and kind, and the students are
"very interesting and respectful."
Houghton says her favorite thing
about BHS is the "kind of people"
She thinks it "is nice to work with
people that are very professional
and kind." She is also proud of
BHS's "good academics."
In her free time, Houghton enjoys completing triathalons and
marathons, and spending time
with her husband.
"She is very energetic. She's a
great addition to our team. I'm
really looking forward to working
with her this year and planning
some exciting lessons with her,"
colleague Mrs. Horan said.
Mrs. Donna Marino
games.
“She is an enthusiastic and dynamic teacher who seems to have
a real rapport with her students,”
colleague Sra. Bascom said.
Already familiar with BHS
after coaching basketball for two
years, Ms. Meredith Pacelli is
having a smooth transition to
teaching English.
Pacelli is teaching Freshmen
and Sophomore English.
Before coming to BHS, Pacelli
taught Language Arts in New
Haven for one year. She moved
to Flood to teach reading for two
years, while she also coached
BHS girls junior varsity basketball.
Pacelli knew she wanted to
become a teacher in college. After
being a captain of the softball
team, she enjoyed being a leader
and making a difference. "You
have the opportunity to change
someone's life or make a difference," Pacelli said.
Pacelli's favorite thing about
teaching is working with the kids
and knowing that she made a
difference. She also enjoys seeing
her students grow and mature.
Pacelli describes her experience at BHS so far as "very
positive." She thinks the BHS
teachers are "very nice, and her
kids are good so far." Her favorite
thing about BHS is her location.
Located in B111, she is enjoying
the windows and likes to "see
life outside," since Flood had no
windows. Pacelli is also enjoying
seeing the students she taught
last year at Flood. "The kids have
been great. I can see the kids that
I had last year," Pacelli said.
In her free time, Pacelli enjoys
traveling, reading, baking, and
shopping. Her favorite novel to
read with her classes is To Kill a
Mockingbird. Pacelli also coaches
softball at SHS.
"I think she has a good positive energy. I can tell that when
I'm having a bad day I can go to
her for a smile," colleague Ms.
Gould said.
Ms. Kathy O’Brien
Ms. Kathy O'Brien is one of
the new faces in the BHS math
department this year. O'Brien is
teaching Advanced Placement
Statistics and Algebra 2.
Before becoming a teacher,
O'Brien was a statistician in
the Pharmaceutical Industry.
She then taught mathematics at
Darien High School and Westhill
High School in Stamford.
O'Brien realized she wanted
to become a teacher when she
worked as a statistician. "I did not
feel I had a direct impact on people," O'Brien said. She wanted
a job in which she could make a
difference.
Her favorite thing about
teaching is how the kids keep her
current with popular culture. She
enjoys hearing what is important
to teenagers.
O'Brien feels very welcome at
BHS. "It's been great," O'Brien
said. She said the math depart-
ment is very supportive, students
are polite and well-behaved, and
the administrators are helpful.
O'Brien's favorite thing about
BHS is her air-conditioned
classroom upstairs. Outside of
the classroom, O’Brien enjoys
bike-riding, roller-blading, and
going to see movies.
"She has been a great addition
to the staff. I enjoyed helping her
become accustomed to Bunnell,”
colleague Mr. Ginand said.