Karina Flores Portfolio 2013

Portfolio 2013 {{KARINA FLORES

May 17, 2013

Gwen Miller Special Projects ManagerPanera Bread Company 2516 Aloma AvenueWinter Park, Florida 32792(321) 304-3940

Dear Ms. Miller,

Perhaps the Panera located on Lee Vista is seeking a reliable, hardworking individual who can grasp procedures quickly and perform independently and efficiently. If this is the case, then please accept the accompanying resume for your review and consideration for the position of hourly associate in which these strengths and diverse experience will be of value.

As a senior at William R. Boone High School I am presented with various opportunities where I can exhibit maturity and efficiency that would be of use in a work setting. As Copy Editor of Boone High School’s newspaper Hi-lights, I am responsible for designing and overseeing the Editorial pages where I work efficiently to meet deadlines for press, while editing the staff members work and assisting in any way I can. In addition to a leadership role on campus, I maintain a 3.83 GPA.

My work and experience as a contributing member of a high school publication coupled with my excellent grades demonstrate dependability, resourcefulness and diligence. I have completed an internship with a prominent attorney in the Central Florida community, James Auffant, where I experienced first-hand a professional work setting and acquired skills necessary to maintain a successful business.

Although the accompanying resume illustrates my background well, I feel a personal interview would better demonstrate my knowledge and abilities. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you at a convenient time. Thank you for your review and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Respectfully Yours,

Karina Flores

Enclosed: Resumé

2742 Mystic Cove DriveOrlando, Florida 32812

[email protected](407) 760-1214

{KARINA FLORES {

2742 Mystic Cove DriveOrlando, Florida 32812

[email protected](407) 760-1214

{KARINA FLORES {OBJECTIVE: To obtain work experience and skills in the restaurant industry through a part-time job.

EDUCATION:Completed four years at William R. Boone High School.Graduation date: May 2013G.P.A. 3.83. Top 5% of class.

EXPERIENCE:Newspaper Staff Member, William R. Boone High School ● August 2012 - present. Copy editor of campus newspaper Hi-lights. ● August 2011 - May 2012. Staff member of campus newspaper. Researched information or news articles using library and Web sources. Composed and edited informational articles, columns, editorials, and advertising copy. ● Law Internship with Attorney James Auffant P.A. Job-shadowed a criminal law attorney through day-to-day activities. Learned about legal proceedings and paralegal duties. ● Volunteer in the Orange County Teen Court Program Acted as juror and prosecutor for juveniles charged with petty crimes. Learned toefficiently represent clients and about court room proceedings

AWARDS, HONORS AND MEMBERSHIPS: ● 2013 University of Central Florida Silver Pegasus Scholarship Recipient Scholarship based on academic achievement.

● 2013 Florida Law Honor Society Member Recipient Membership based on law classes taken such as Comprehensive Law, COurt Procedures, Constitutional Law Honors and Advanced Placement American Government and Politics. ● 2012 Hi-lights Newspaper Staff Writer of the Year Based on performance in writing on staff of campus newspaper. ● Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School Students 2012 - present Based on academic achievement and involvement in journalism. ● National Scholastic Press Association Journalism Honor Roll 2012 - present Based on academic achievement and involvement in journalism.

REFERENCES: James Auffant P.A. Criminal Law Attorney 2514 E Jackson St, Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 894-4779

Cindy Schimdt Director for Center of Law and PoilcyUniversity of Central FloridaHPA I, Suite 343 Orlando, FL 32816(407) 823-1670

{ {

Self-evaluation I became aware of the journalism class at Boone in eighth grade when completing requests for freshman classes. I knew I loved writing and law so my first thought was: journalism was a way to combine my two pas-sions. Unfortunately, because of Magnet and the required law classes need-ed to be completed for freshman I wasn’t able to take the class until soph-omore year. I had a vague idea of what journalism was and what journalists did: report the news as quickly and accurately as possible, but after taking Journalism I as a sophomore, then as a staff member my junior year and as copy editor my senior year I realized it went beyond that.

i learned more about leadership and dedication more than anything else as a senior and editor on staff for my second year. I’ve witnessed first-hand that without these qualities, a staff and its publication can suffer. I’ve learned it takes balance and diligence to pull through and just get it done. When it comes down to staying late to finish an issue, it just has to be done. With a strong EIC and advisor, this paper survived this year.

I’ve learned more firsthand this year than last year just by being a senior and editor. I think my actual production skills have improved because of the increase in responsibility in helping others and getting the paper to press on a tight deadline. I was forced to learn new things to be helpful to the staff. I’ve learned more about Photoshop and design for my ourview info graphics. As the issues progressed my info graphics improved. My most recent feat was learning to make a silhouette for my ourview info graphic. Although it may sound simple, I enjoyed learning something new on Pho-toshop and felt proud when I finished. All in all, deadlines have been diffi-cult, but one thing I do not regret are the friendships I’ve made. As much as these two years have taught me, the things I value most are the amazing people I’ve met and gotten to know.

These are lessons I will utilize for the rest of my education and career. I’ve experienced the ups and downs of a publication which can be applied in any independent work setting where teamwork is also crucial.

{ {

reflection one I consider my most significant piece to be “Reservation welcomes new citizens” because I feel it is the most meaningful. Boone, for the first time had the opportunity to host a naturalization ceremony sponsored by Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster & Reed and the Orange County Bar Association. About 100 immigrants were formally granted citizenship with friends, fam-ily, Boone students and staff and members from the community watching. I thought it was my most significant piece because I was genuinely inter-ested in the ceremony and its message, “Opportunity for All: Realizing the Dream.”

From the beginning I focused on interviewing as many people in-volved, which included Teresa Finer, head of the immigration department at the firm and one of the main organizers, students involved in preparation, those who attended and actual participants. Specifically, I interviewed the president of the Serendipity Club Shaffaq Noor, who herself is not yet a citizen. She expressed how much the ceremony touched her and and how it motivates her to formally become a citizen. I also interviewed several partic-ipants and their family members. One father and daughter in particular were excited about their photos being taken and spoke to Lizzy and I about how proud they were of the mother for finally gaining citizenship years after mov-ing to the states from Lithuania. These aspects made it an important piece to write, especially because of its human element.

The contacts I made with those who organized the event like Finer and members of the Orange County Bar have proved beneficial. They appreciated the coverage and enjoyed my story and photos, even posting them on their firm’s site, their Facebook page and Linkedin profile.

Overall, my favorite part of the piece and process was seeing the participants’ emotions and hearing about what the ceremony meant to them. Also, seeing students’ being surprised at how much they enjoyed the ceremony. Initially, most students came for extra credit, but by the end they realized hw important the ceremony was to thesenew citizens. I think it is significant because it shows that the organizers accomplished their main goal: to educate the community on the citizenship process and open disscussion on immigration.

reflection one{ {

Draft

reflection one{ {

Final DraftReservation welcomes new citizens

BY KARINA FLORES

REALIZING THE DREAM. Applicants re-ceive their citizenship certificate after taking the Oath of Allegiance, completing the final step in receiving American Citizenship. photo/ELIZABETH GORDONShowing support for the applicants who filed into the auditorium to attend their own natu-ralization ceremony and receive their certifi-cation of citizenship, a banner made by stu-dents hung in front of the auditorium reading “Boone Welcomes New Citizens”.

On April 11, the Reservation hosted their first United States naturalization ceremony for 100 people from 34 countries as part of Law Week, a national Bar Association program in April that celebrates the rule of law in our society. The year’s theme is “Realizing the Dream: Equality for All”. Orange County School Board Chairman and former Orange County Bar Association President Bill Sublette acted as the keynote speaker to honor the new citizens.

Attorney Teresa Finer, the head of the immi-gration department at Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, coordinated with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Orange County Bar Association with a goal, not only to grant people from all over the world citizenship, but offer students and the community an opportunity to witness people from all over the world become fellow Amer-ican citizens and to promote understanding about the processes involved in immigration

in days where immigration law is being debated in the forefront in national politics.

Finer enlisted help from Law Magnet teachers, Kim Davison and Laura Crolla, and geography teacher Suzanne Unger to invite students to attend and experience the ceremony. Finer deems the event a success attracting an audience that filled the auditorium, including students and teachers alongside the applicants’ family and friends.

“I loved it. It was truly meaningful and I could tell the students thought so too. The ceremony gave students and the community a chance to experi-ence a sense of patriotism. I could tell the audience was touched and am glad so many showed up to watch,” Finer said.

Students who attended felt the emotion in the room as people walked one by one across the stage, certificate in hand, as American citizens for the first time. Senior Shaffaq Noor is president of the Serendipity Club which promotes unity and un-derstanding among different cultures. Noor felt the ceremony exemplifies the club’s message.

“This ceremony was beautiful. It showed that we can all live in unity and peace. There were people from all different countries out there today so ex-cited to become a part of this community and they were so proud to be an American,” Noor said.

Noor has not yet started the process to become an American citizen, moving here from Pakistan as a young child, but is now inspired by the ceremony to begin as soon as possible.

Family and friends presented the newly sworn-in citizens with red, white and blue-themed gift bags, flower bouquets and balloons. There was a sense of

reflection one{ {

Final Draft

patriotism and unity that filled the room. One applicant, Anastasia Ladanyi, tearfully expressed her appreciation for the ceremony and recogni-tion.

“This ceremony is very special. When I began the process, I thought I was going to go to an office a Friday afternoon and receive my certif-icate, but this meant a lot to me. I was able to represent my country and I am grateful for this opportunity,” Ladanyi said.

Ladanyi was assigned a number by the Hungari-an government,37, out of hundreds of applicants and chosen at random to be able to apply for American citizenship from her native country, Hungary.

Others have been living in the U.S. for years, but have waited or have been completing the long process to be naturalized. One man from Haiti said it was the last thing he needed to become a part of his family, who are all naturaLized citizens.

The ceremony ended with applause, hugs and endless picture-taking.

Finer hopes the ceremony opens discussion between students, teachers and the community to promote equality and help others accomplish the “American Dream”.

REALIZING THE DREAM. Applicants receive their citizenship certificate after taking the Oath of Allegiance, completing the final step in receiving American Citizenship. photo/ELIZABETH GORDON

{ {

reflection two

The piece I think could still use work is my ourview on NASA, “NASA loses space race lead.” I feel I was not invested in the topic. It was not my idea initially, but at the time I thought it would be interesting to write and express my opinion on our nation’s role in space travel. The research I found was detailed, confusing and often contradictory making it difficult for me to form a clear, defined opinion on our nation’s role in space travel. my lack of knowledge and understanding of the research and the nation’s role, made the story read inaccurate or misguided. I do like the info graphic design, mainly the rocket behind the text, but I do feel the infor-mation provided was not relevant to the story and I could have utilized the creative design to present more relevant and interesting alternative copy. if I had the chance to redo it or do something differently I would either focus more on understanding the research on the issue to form a clear, definitive opinion or taken the initiative to have changed the ourview topic completely.

reflection two {{ Draft

reflection two {{ final Draft2 Friday, March 15, 2013 hilights.org hi-lights

insight ‘The U.S. needs to re-enter the arena of the modern day space race as a sole competitor. Karina Flores, copy editor

Last month, a 10,000 ton, billion-year-old meteor, as if out of a sci-fi film, crashed in Russia causing thousands of injuries. This raises the question: What is “out there” and what is this nation doing to find out?

The retirement of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s shuttle fleet raises concern about whether the United States is doing its part in space exploration. Sparked by Russia’s launch of Sputnik at the height of the Cold War, the U.S. established NASA in 1958 in hopes of being the leader in space exploration. Subsequently, the “space race” began between the United States, Russia and China. But within the last decade, it seems our involvement is declining.

It is approximately 54 years later and the United States lost the urgency and drive it once had to be at the forefront of space travel; the “space race” is not over. The nation needs to put aside bureaucratic politics, remain on the global stage of space exploration and rally public interest to engage a new generation deeper into space.

Endorsing American space exploration will advance technological developments, as it has done in decades past, benefitting the environment (obviously addressing global

warming), communications, defense, tourism, commercial entrepreneurship and education, which can all benefit the nation’s economy as a whole, while staying at the top of the game globally.

Past developments include the telephone, the microwave, swimwear, UV coating and water filters. These innovations are common today, but would not have been possible without the research and initiative of NASA. Funding and resources are available, but are not sufficient. With an increase in resources coupled with increasingly sophisticated technology, the possibilities for what NASA can innovate now are endless, but cooperation and funds are crucial.

Since its beginning, NASA has been subject to government pressures and political drama. With each presidential administration comes its own plans, recommendations and budget restraints for NASA’s goals. One long-term priority is to visit an asteroid by 2025.

According to a report from the National Research Council, limited evidence shows consensus on the nation’s goals for space exploration, whether within NASA’s own work force, the nation as a whole, or internationally. Causes to this issue include congressional meddling, special interests and bureaucratic drama that inhibits NASA projects such as rocket construction and shuttle expeditions.

The public has come to know NASA as an agency plagued with delays, cutbacks

and, unfortunately, tragedy. NASA must rebuild its reputation independent from political pressures to ensure efficiency and the continuation of space voyages. At the beginning of his second term, President Barack Obama suggested a complete restructuring of the NASA program to reduce costs and improve efficiency. With this, other nations will want to partner with the U.S. to continue large-scale space expeditions, alongside Russia in the International Space Station program.

Due to its lack of self-efficiency, NASA and the U.S. are now dependent on international partners, specifically Russia, and commercial, private sector companies to help accomplish their goals, including future transport of astronauts to the International Space Station. Although the addition of partners involve bigger budgets, it also involves more voices and directions that mislead NASA’s own goals, causing it to lose its footing as the nation’s prestigious space program.

China and Russia have explicit, concrete exploration plans and committed budgets. For example, China has decreased their military spending to accomplish a steady pace with clear objectives and realistic goals such as launching its own lab and sending powerful manned spaceships.

The U.S. needs to re-enter the arena of the modern-day space race as a competitor, while working with outside resources, to promote the nation’s trek to unravel its mysteries and improve future science and technology.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are calling prescription drug abuse an epidemic. That makes sense. After all, they are drugs.

There is another epidemic in this country, but it doesn’t necessarily involve “drugs.”

This issue the paper covers smoking marijuana, cigarettes and hookah and dipping tobacco, but these aren’t real drugs because cigarettes, hookah and dipping tobacco are legal for adults, and marijuana was legalized for recreation in Colorado and Oregon this past November, right? Wrong.

According to drugabuse.gov, since 1991, the perceived risk in smoking marijuana has decreased 15 percent, but the smoking of marijuana has increased by the same amount for 12th graders. While marijuana does have small side effects compared to heavier drugs, it can cause short-term memory loss, possibly lung cancer, and it is psychologically addictive, according to webmd.com. One in 12 people feel withdrawal symptoms if they cannot get high when they want.

If something alters one’s state of being and he can’t live without it, he is addicted. It is an unhealthy practice.

Cigarette smoking, while legal nationwide, and not considered a “drug,” has far worse consequences than marijuana. There are over 600 ingredients in cigarettes which range from arsenic to formaldehyde. Essentially, smoking causes death.

In the United States, 443,000 deaths are caused each year by cigarettes. That’s one in five. In 2009, 7.3 percent of high school students were frequent cigarette users, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hookah, a middle eastern tradition, which involves smoking flavored tobacco through a tube, is considered more cultural than anything, and hookah bars seem to be trending, but it can also harm health.

The flavor, smoothness of inhaling hookah smoke and social factors all mask the fact that hookah is tobacco. Since hookah is typically a social event, it’s possible that a hookah smoker inhales more smoke than a cigarette smoker because sessions last longer.

Also in the tobacco family, smokeless tobacco was used by 8.9 percent of high schoolers in 2009, according to the CDC. While most harmful side effects of chewing tobacco are related to one’s pearly whites not staying so pearly, the most serious side effect of dipping is cancer.

Thinking a substance isn’t as toxic because the word drug isn’t attributed to it is ridiculous. It does not matter if all of these products are considered “drugs” or not. They’re still harmful to the user’s health. For information on more health effects and quitting, go to www.quitnow.org

If it’s legal, it can’t be bad, right?

Lindsay Alexander, Editor-In-Chief

TLLThrough Lindsay’s Lens

ourv

iew

Space exploration is vital for future science and technology and needs to be promoted vigoriously.

<

NASA loses ‘Space race’ lead

hi-lightsnewspaper

EDITORIAL BOARDEditor-In-Chief Lindsay AlexanderDesign Editor Anna Marie BoriaCopy Editor Karina FloresBusiness Manager Lizzy GordonIndex Editor Delanee BoganWebmaster Bridgette NorrisCampus and Local Editor Thomas EganFeatures Editor Lia VillarSports Editor Chase GardnerEntertainment Editor Cooper Brock

STAFFERS Meghan Cotton, Jackson Crumbly, Conor Curry, Gabriella Fakhoury, Kaley Gilbert, Austin Hall, Josh Halloran, Sam Holleman, Jordan Knight, Ciara McCoy, Tommy McDonald, Mackenzie Mock, Olivia Quatrone, Gavin Waters

Editorial Policy POLICY STATEMENT

Hi-Lights is a student publication of William R. Boone High School, 1000 E. Kaley Ave., Orlando, Florida, 32806. The ideas and views of the aforementioned students and faculty are not those of Boone or the Orange County School Board. Opinions expressed in unsigned editorials are those of the editorial board, who determine the content. Opinions expressed in columns are those of the authors.

Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or libelous 2. The material is signed

The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, punctuation, accuracy, invasion of privacy and potential disruption of the school.SCHOLASTIC ASSOCIATIONSHi-Lights is associated with Florida Scholastic, American Scholastic, Columbia Scholastic and National Scholastic Press Associations and Quill and Scroll.

OTHERAdviser Renee Burke Principal Margaret McMillen

OUR MISSIONThis paper is a quality product whose sole purpose is to pursue the truth, and to provide information and factual news pertaining to Boone and the community around it. Any questions or comments can be directed to (407) 893-7200, extension 6012614 or Room 224, as well as by email to [email protected]. If you find any errors, please call our offices or visit us.

source/ dsc.discovery.com

Innovation to invention

Invisible braces made from material

created to protect infrared

antennae of heat-seeking

missile trackers.

Memory foam created to lessen

impact during

landings.

Water filterscreated to convert

contaminated water

to pure water. Now

used in daily life.

Household smoke detectors the astronauts would

need to know if a

fire had started or if

noxious gases were

loose in the vehicle

illustration/ KARINA FLORES

Long-distance communicationspossible because of NASA’s

satellites built to

transmit messages

and photos.

{ {

reflection three

I am proud of this picture because I feel it represents what the naturalization ceremo-ny was about, “Opportunity for All: Realizing the Dream.” Most of the particiapnts had friends and loved ones to watch them become naturalized as U.S. citizens. The participants that I interviewed all mentioned that becoming a naturalized citizen will give them and their families more opportunities in the U.S. I feel this photo has a good center of visual interest and filling the frame. natceremony 2-11_013.jpg

{ {

reflection three

I am proud of this picture because I feel it captures the participants in action, actually taking the oath of allegiance. I wanted to take a picture that captured the moment they have been preparing for and have waited for so long for. I also like how generations are shown in the picture with an elderly woman, a middle aged mother and her new baby. I think the photo shows a good element of leading lines and filling the frame. natceremony 2-11_230.jpg

{ {

reflection three

I am proud of this picture because i felt like I captured how proud the participants were for themselves. At this moment, the participants were applauding for each other and their native countries. I really saw the pride the participants have for their native coun-tries when each one stood up when their country was called. I think this picture has a good element of leading lines. natceremony 2-11_232.jpg

{ {

reflection four

I feel I was a valuable asset to Hi-Lights and hilgihts.org. Wheth-er I was on deadline or not, my assignments did get done. I tried my best to balance editor responsibilities along with senior obligations and the onset of senioritis. In hindsight, I feel I could have tried hard-er, organized better, managed my time wisely and made my committement to the staff and newspaper larger.

I do feel I did help, along with a core group of people, days before press to make sure everything was done. I’ve done headers, cobbed photos, finished stories, interviewed and taken photo, all aside from my ourview and info graphic. Ultimately, I still feel I was a valuable staff member who worked to make this staff and publication a priority and top committment.

{ {

reflection five

Some hardships and problems I faced this year was definitely difficulty in making deadlines as a staff and lack of committment. As a whole, I feel the staff lost motivation to do any work, espcially as the year went on. People began slacking more and more and it affected the whole staff, especially Burke and Lindsay. We began to lose pride in our work and publication as a whole.

I learned that the best approach to these situations is strong leadership. if editors, like myself, had stepped up and been more assertive to the staff it might have motivated more students to work harder. There are always the procrastinators (including me) and the slackers, but if the staff as a whole comes together and worksdiligently it could have made the difference.

Overall, i feel like I did not handle the situation well and there alternatives to handling the situation. If I could go back I would step up as an editor and leader to ensure everyone was on task. Instad, I mostly laid back and went with the staff, even letting my own work pile up. This is a lesson I will carry through life in any group setting. It can be hard with so many individuals and varying personalities to work together towards a common goal, but there are ways to handle it.

{ {

reflection six

Writing{{

{

{ Editorials, page 2, Oct. 5{

What’s mine: storyq3 q captionsq

des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

2 Friday, October 5, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

insight Romney’s ideas and beliefs are too radical and old-fashioned for the times we live in.Anita Velgara, senior

ßbeheardSend letters to the editor to Hi-Lights, 1000 E. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806, or drop off in Room 224. You can also send to [email protected]. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. To be considered for print, all letters must be signed and cannot contain libelous information.

Contact us at 407-893-7200 ext. 6012614 or via email at [email protected]

Comment on the web at hilights.org

To advertise call Lizzy Gordon at our offices. The paper is free to students and subscriptions are available for $10. Ad sizes available: Business card $25; Eighth page $45; Quarter page $95; Half page $125; Full page $175

ßletters to the editor

ßfollowusOn Twitter @hilightsnp

On Facebook at facebook.com/hilights

‘The new way to connect with this

generation of students is through their cell-phones and laptops. Commonly referred to as the “plugged in” generation, high school students today are more interested in their tweets than their textbooks.

Teachers have come to approach this phenomenon with a “If you can’t beat them, join them” attitude taking advantage of students’ attachment to social media and the Internet by incorporating them into their classrooms. Schools, teachers and students should support this transition into the modern age.

According to the National School Boards Association, over 50 percent of school districts in the United States utilize a form of social media or information sharing site. Schools should embrace the uses of social networking and information-sharing sites and apply these means to education. It is the 21st century and one’s education should reflect as such.

As a result, efficiency is increased. Teachers and students have access to information-sharing sites such as Google Drive, turnitin.com and most recently, Edmodo where documents, assignments and important information can be exchanged between students and teachers. For example, turnitin.com allows teachers to view an originality report revealing any plagiarized work and if so what percentage and from what source. Furthermore, a teacher can provide feedback and grades directly on the student’s assignment. The need to sift through hundreds of

Students deserve upgradeDigital media brings education to modern age benefiting students.

essays with a red ink pen is minimized to a click of a mouse.

With this same ease, students are able to view feedback, grades and chat with their teachers. With this form of efficiency, teachers can better cater to the educational needs of students while ensuring they are being ethical.

Social media can enhance one’s education by broadening his spheres of influence. Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Skype and blog sites are all effective means to communicate with other students and teachers. Skype can connect students and teachers across the globe. These outlets allow for an exchange of ideas and thoughts with people outside of their school, state or even country. The availability of these sites can turn a classroom global and expand a student’s point of view outside of the classroom walls.

In addition, these methods open a dialogue between students and teachers that leads to better communication and learning environment. For example, a teacher could type a friendly reminder

about upcoming due dates and it send to the class instantaneously or topics discussed in the classroom can continue through these avenues in the convenience of one’s home.

However, digital media is not without its faults. The use of technology, especially social media can be more of a negative element than positive if not used properly. If used excessively, one could be distracted rather and waster time rather than be efficient. Teachers should encourage students to appropriately use these means productively and safely beyond high school, the student will have acquired skills necessary in today’s workplace. Nearly everything is accessible from the Internet and with digital media experience one can be successful.

Although one can benefit from these technologies, it is best to be cautious and attentive. With proper usage, digital media can increase teacher efficiency and quality of learning. Today’s education deserves an upgrade.

Mudslinging tweets and incessant political programming—it must be an election year. However, a key element of the democratic process is the public’s right to be informed, even if it is through whiny commercials.

It is a journalist’s job to inform the public, but as a 17-year-old journalist feeling gypped because she can’t vote yet, it is my job to tell the eligible student body why it should vote and to explain to the majority of the student body still ineligible to vote why it should have an opinion.

General reasons for not voting include busyness, apathy and distrust of government. United States citizens have the right to be too busy to vote, but really, someone is too busy to vote for the leader of the free world? People can be apathetic, but apathy lets other people make one’s decisions.

Furthermore, people especially have the right to dislike government because unhappiness with government is how revolutionaries started the U.S., but don’t throw up the rebel flag just yet.

If one chooses not to vote, one loses authority to criticize government because he is not participating in it. He says he does not care enough about his country to make a decision about who should run it and he doesn’t agree with democracy enough to support it.

One’s vote or non-vote affects him directly. Taxes, foreign policy, social programs and education reform are all influenced by who is elected.

Since a democracy cannot be run without the votes of citizens, then the government will always be influenced by the people’s votes. One’s vote cannot be disregarded. Democracy molded America; citizens have an obligation to support it.

Finally, for those too young to vote, forming an opinion is still valuable. Eventually, every freshman, sophomore, junior (and unfortunate 17-year-old seniors) will turn 18. When they do, they don’t want to be complete voting novices. Learning about and taking stances on issues now makes a knowledgeable future vote.

If one has never taken an interest in current events or public policy before, it is likely that he will vote based on appearances, general statements or how his parents vote. One doesn’t have to be an expert, but a first time voter should want to have an educated vote.

According to the article “Turnout in presidential elections hits high” on msnbc.com, 61.6 percent of eligible voters cast ballots in the 2008 election. Join the 61.6 percent; the nearest voter registration office is three minutes from campus by car. It is located at 119 W. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806. Voters have to be registered 29 days prior to elections. The presidential election is 32 days away, just do it.

Voting: just do it



Romney too “old-fashioned” for modern times

I believe Obama is the best choice for presidential candidate. His policies have been effective, though it will take some time for a difference to be noticeable. Romney’s ideas and beliefs are too radical and old-fashioned for the times we live in. I believe the passion Obama has for this nation and the people who live in it [and he] can carry us through these dark times.

Anita Velgara, senior

Nation needs businessman I think Mitt Romney would be a

great president for our country. He is a business man, which means he knows how to handle money. If he were to be elected I feel as if Mitt could get us in a better position economically than Obama can offer. I also think Mitt would be a great choice because I believe in working for your money, so with that being said Romney would make more jobs available so people on welfare can earn their own money which I think is just. So I only hope the best for him.

Tiffany Torres, junior

President Obama’s goals will improve middle class

I believe that Barack Obama would be my personal choice for president on this presidential election. His goals for the working middle class, such as education procedures, health benefits and taxes that could [be] very helpful. Aiming to enrich the economy and building jobs all around the country. He is involved in our society due to all the hard-work he is putting into perfecting our country. I believe Obama would be the perfect president of the United States.

D’ Balkys Valera, sophomore

Romney supports traditionThe best presidential candidate is

Mitt Romney. As a republican, it would be the typical choice for me to choose Romney. He is more conservative and goes along with other policies that I support. Obama, on the other hand, has multiplied our debt greatly. As our country goes into debt, it will be overrun with other beliefs that contradict the basis of America.

Meghan Curtis, sophomore

view

poin

tTeachers should take advantage of digital media to enhance students’ education.

<

96percent of students use social media such as chatting, blogging and visiting other online communities.

59percent of students use social networking to talk about education-related topics online.

35percent of United States schooldistricts have student or teacher run blogs.

73percent of students use social networking to communicate with adults .

illustration/OLIVIA QUATTRONE

#fastfigures alt.

co

py

q3

{ Editorials, page 2, Oct. 5{


des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

2 Friday, November 9, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

insight[The new lunch policies] are not enough for lunch. It’s like a snack, so you don’t have enough energy.Erin Strickler, sophomore‘

As childhood obesity hits an all-time high, the federal government takes aim at what it thinks is the primary cause of overweight children: unhealthy school meals. While

these new regulations offer healthier food choices, students are left with empty stomachs.

In 2010, First Lady Michelle Obama led the national campaign against childhood obesity, with her “Let’s Move” program. Its success led Congress to pass legislation that gives the United States Department of Agriculture the power to impose strict guidelines on school lunches, including an age-aligned maximum caloric intake per lunch that is effective for this 2012-2013 school year nationwide. Congress has the right idea but the wrong approach.

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act is currently implemented in public school cafeterias across the nation. As the act’s provisions are applied, protest and discontent are seen from students, parents and others who oppose such stringent restrictions in schools.

There is a stamp collection in my room somewhere. Stamp collecting was a childhood obsession of mine. Pink stamps, foreign stamps, holiday stamps, they all made the collection.

Stamp collecting is going the way of the Woolly Mammoth. According to the Business Week article “U.S. Postal Service Near Collapse,” from 2006 to 2010, paper mail circulation decreased 20 percent. With modern conveniences like email, social media and online checking and billing, mail amounts are declining. However, new, faster and inexpensive technologies do not excuse one from the occasional necessity of a handwritten letter or thank you note.

First, handwritten letters have standards. A date and some kind of greeting is expected. Dear so and so is the most common. The other element a letter needs, besides the letter itself, is a signature. If one follows these steps, he is on the fast track to a gold star in letter writing.

Second, one needs to know when letters are necessary. Obviously, brief information and casual conversations do not require, a handwritten letter. However, if one is writing about a more serious and heartfelt topic, a handwritten letter is highly appropriate. Examples of this include love letters and celebratory notes.

Words in emails can be romantic, but nothing beats a handwritten letter. Reading “My heart pines for you” in handwriting means a lot more than reading a significant other’s thoughts in Times New Roman, font size 12. Mailed letters can also be held. This equates to talking on Skype and literally speaking face to face. Skype is great, but person-to-person contact is better. Holding a letter increases personal connection more than reading words off a computer screen.

Furthermore, celebratory notes should be handwritten. If one gets a “Happy Birthday” post on his Facebook wall, or a text saying, “Congrats on graduation :),” it does not mean as much as pulling a birthday or graduation card out of the mailbox. The inconvenience of postal mail makes it special. Handwritten letters take time and thought. They are not quick and easy, and that is why they mean something. The likelihood of saving emails is small. Handwritten letters can be saved for posterity.

Finally, thank you cards should always be handwritten. If someone took the time to buy a gift, the least one can do is write a note of thanks.

Some letters should not be virtually simulated, abbreviated or spell checked. There are letters that need to be written with ink and paper, folded and mailed because they can increase connection and communicate emotion and gratitude more effectively. Maybe one can even pick out a festive stamp.

Handwritten letters can’t be replaced



Low calorie, low energyillustration/KARINA FLORES

view

poin

t

The new federal school lunch policy is well- intentioned but misguided and ineffective.

<One of the purposes of the HHFK

Act is to reduce childhood obesity by providing healthier choices. While this goal is admirable, it needs to be reached without harmful effects. The controversial provision of the act is the 850 calorie cap on school lunches for high school students, which follows highly accredited Mayo Clinic guidelines. Consequently, this calorie limit treats students’ meals as “one size fits all.” This approach is illogical and detrimental to the thousands of unique, growing adolescents who depend on a mid-day meal to stay attentive in classes and active in after-school activities.

For instance, this specific caloric intake can easily satisfy an active 125 pound freshman but cannot sustain the needs of a 250 pound senior football player. According to USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, student athletes require up to 900 calories more than the average 2,400 intake. A high school football player can burn up to 3,000 calories by the time he get home from practice. The calorie maximum does not acknowledge each individual’s height, weight, physical activity, or gender, all necessary criteria to determine the healthy amount of calories one should consume.

Additionally, the guidelines aim to decrease child hunger. Unfortunately, the rules leave students hungrier than

they were before. Portion sizes have been significantly reduced and these smaller portions cannot fully cater to the entire student body. Half-foot subs are now substituted by fist-sized whole-grain rolls and fruits and vegetables are allocated a larger portion than the main entrée, limiting grain and protein intake, meaning less energy. There are students whose only full meal throughout the day is the lunch provided and these students, along with others, are left without a balanced array of nutrients needed to provide energy and fill their stomachs.

Along with smaller portions, school lunches have seen a 28 cent price increase nationwide. While Orange County maintains $2.50 for a full lunch, it is actually more expensive for the consumer because it is a smaller-sized meal. The government is spending $3.2 million to implement these regulations in public schools and in government funded institutions that cater to children like Head Start.

In reality, these misled rules do not take into account students’ weights, metabolism rates and physical activity which vary too much to set such guidelines. The government should take a step back and re-evaluate its approach to the issue of childhood hunger and obesity. The goal is to help students get healthy, not hungry.

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act

3.2million dollars are being allocated to fund public schools to implement the new lunch policies.

10percent of saturated fats is the maximum amount of fats a lunch can have, except for natural fats in meat and dairy products.

740milligrams of sodium is the maximum amount per meal.

850calories is the maximum amount allowed in a high school lunch.

#fastfigures

One cup of fruitper day. Only half of the weekly requirement can come from juice.

One cup of vegetables including starch products.

10-12 ounces per week. May be substituted by nuts, tofu, cheese or eggs.

One cup of fat-free, low-fat or lactose-free milk per day.

Cookies and sugary desserts are no longer served.

ßyourthoughts Do you think the new school lunch policy is effective?

That’s not enough for lunch. It’s like a snack. You don’t have

enough energy as if you would have had a normal lunch.

Erin Strickler, sophomore

I think that the lunches are too small to support students in

after school activities, especially sports.

Tristan Sanders Jr., junior

It is good because [the nation’s]obesity level is ridiculous.

Bria Cobb, senior

alt.

co

py

q3

{ Editorials, page 2, Dec. 14{


des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

Controversy twists science

2 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

insight[The Second Amendment] is a fundamental right that should be upheld by the highest authority.Nathaniel Reiff, senior

If the fairy tale Cinderella was politically correct, Cinderella would be an independent, adept female, not a damsel in distress. Prince Charming would be of mixed race, and her fairy godmother would be a fairy godperson.

The vine of political correctness covers every aspect of professional and personal lives. It chokes opinion and suffocates harmless conversation.

Starting this fall, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill’s freshman class members are no longer considered freshmen. They’re all first years. The policy is supposedly politically correct, but it is also ridiculous. The notion that a woman attending UNC is offended by her designation as a freshman instead of a fresh woman is excessively sensitive.

There was a day when America was a highly sexist society. Women did not attend college, their occupations were limited and their pay was severely lower than the average male pay. However, that day is not today. Anyone genuinely offended by the term freshman needs to regroup and move forward. This exaggerated attention to detail keeps women in the past, not the present.

Also, in the English language, words default to masculine pronouns. Even if the word freshman possesses sexist undertones, grammatically, it is correct.

Furthermore, with the holidays approaching, disputes about saying “Happy Holidays,” which is politically correct, versus “Merry Christmas” will surface. The issue is there should not be a dispute at all.

Happy Holidays is simply an alternative to Merry Christmas. However, deeming “Happy Holidays” politically correct because it includes all celebrations, makes the expression a political correctness issue. Happy Holidays is suddenly expected because it’s “the proper” thing to say. People preferring “Merry Christmas” can be offended because they see their favored expression as incorrect. As soon as offense is taken due to either phrase, political correctness needlessly turns a happy greeting into verbal friction.

Americans should be able to say both salutations without fear of offending someone. The necessity for political correctness and the outright fear of getting thrown into a political debate crushes diversity and opinion.

Worrying about political correctness makes people see conflict when there really is none. Fretting about the proper thing to say can kill conversations about political, social or religious differences, and it inadvertently censors the First Amendment rights of Americans.

So right it’s wrong







ßletters to the editor

ßfollowusOn Twitter @hilightsnp


Gun laws are overbearing I believe gun laws are too overbearing, especially regarding regulation and the right to conceal a federal level. The Second Amendment delegates the right to all United States constituents to bear arms. As a [person who interprets the Constitution with its original intent], our laws should be conceived around the original intent of our Founding Fathers. It is a fundamental right that should be upheld by the highest authority.

Nathaniel Reiff, senior

Regulations are effectiveGun regulations and laws are already

effective. Criminals are going to have guns whether the law exists or not, so I believe if citizens are allowed to own guns [legally] then that should lower [illegal] gun ownership and high crime rates throughout the country. I believe everyone who is mentally stable should be allowed to own at least one gun if done legally.

Dustin Driskell, junior

Responsibility is necessaryPersonally, I do think gun

regulations are effective and sufficient. Gun ownership is taken seriously and people who are qualified respect the right to own a gun. Obviously, there are exceptions and idiotic people waving around guns, but I do not think the United States can outlaw stupidity. Guns don’t kill people, people kill people. The person pulling the trigger is at fault, not the gun.

Victoria Treiber, senior

Gun laws not strict enoughI believe gun ownership regulations

are not sufficient enough. I do agree with the age at which a person may own a gun, but I think in order to own a gun the person should know how to handle it properly. They should also explain and demonstrate the proper safety precautions when handling a gun. And in order to carry a gun on their person, they must have a proper holster where the weapon is hidden.

Shane Mallory, senior Am I too conservative? Don’t worry about

political correctness, let me know what you think of my thoughts. Maybe yours can be published too. [email protected]

ourv

iew

Private gun ownership should be strictly regulated to ensure a safer community while still upholding one’s right to bear arms.

< Every night the evening news reports on countless murders, accidental deaths and injuries. The cause of these horrific crimes can be attributed to the lack of adequate gun regulations and easy access to weapons in the United States. In the past year alone, over 60 shooting incidents

occurred at the hands of gun owners who should not have been in possession of a weapon because of their young age or background of mental health problems. The government needs to pay more careful attention to those with potential mental instability. While the Second Amendment right to bear arms should be staunchly protected as a citizen’s fundamental liberty, the government might consider which citizens are the ones who are exercising this fundamental, but potentially dangerous right. The federal government should establish stricter, uniform laws regarding the process of obtaining a weapon. Currently only 28 states require a report of the buyer’s mental health. Federal and state laws require all 50 states to perform thorough criminal

background checks on potential buyers, but fail to screen for those who are not mentally stable to acquire legitimate gun ownership. As a result, incidents such as the massacre of 12 innocent people in a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, are possible. The confessed killer, James Holmes, had recorded mental issues, but still legally obtained a gun since he had no previous criminal background. While a three day waiting period before issuing a permit is implemented, it is only required in 11 states. The sale of guns at shops can provide a buyer with a weapon within one day. This quick, easy access increases the chances of fatal weapons getting into the wrong hands. In addition to inadequate precautions for private gun ownership, the high availability of assault-style weapons makes it easier for criminals and underage teenagers to acquire. No citizen needs an assault-style rifle. These weapons should be regulated enough so only law-abiding citizens concerned with their safety can purchase such weapons. Hand guns and rifles are sufficient for one’s safety, sport and leisure. Along with the restriction of assault-style weapons, the amount of rounds one should be able to carry with their concealed weapon should be limited, banning battlefield clips of 100 rounds of ammunition that are not necessary for a civilian’s safety in daily life. No individual needs a high-power 100 round

assault-rifle. These limitations will not violate one’s Second Amendment right, but will ensure a safer country. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 270 million guns are owned by American citizens. Wal-Mart shelves are stocked with low-level hunting guns that can be harmful if not used for their purpose. One could purchase a hunting rifle with the same ease as a pair of shoes at his local store. Along with adults, children and teenagers are exposed to these weapons. The minimum age for private gun ownership is 18-years-old. Although it is the age of a legal adult who has the right to vote, if one is not old enough to consume alcohol, why should that individual be able to possess a deadly weapon? Gun violence is prominent in the United States, having the highest gun-homicide rate in the world. Children and teenagers are being accustomed to living in a country where guns are associated with high crime, homicide and suicide rates. Most famously, the mass shooting at Columbine High School 13 years ago provides a tragic example of two teens who obtained high-powered assault rifles and committed horrific acts. This can be prevented if the same laws implemented by less than half the states became federal restrictions applied nationwide. The approach to gun violence is to wait until after the fact to ask questions like why and how. Instead of taking a shot in the dark, Americans should look at the root of the problem: unnecessary force and easy accessibility.

illustration/KARINA FLORES

Tragedies trigger concern

30,000 gun deaths per year70

, 00

0 g

un in

jurie

s 20 mass murders by gun

90

gun

s for

eve

ry 1

00

Am

eric

ans

In 2

011

, one

in s

ix h

igh

scho

ol

stud

ents

sai

d th

ey c

arrie

d a

gun

On Dec. 1, Kansas City Chiefs’ Jovan Belcher shot and killed his girlfriend before committing suicide in front of team officials at the Arrowhead Stadium.

source/Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Gun Homicde and Cost Database

alt.

co

py

q3

{ sports, page 10, Dec. 14{

What’s mine: storyq3

q

captionsq

des

ign

sp

hotg

rap

hy

10 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

sports We have a lot of chemistry. Last year we had a lot of talent, but we played as individuals. We’re a lot more serious this year.Ivan Kaled, junior

Players seek district titleBoys’ soccer team is determined to make a comeback

photo/CIARA MCCOY

KICK. On Dec. 5 at home against Colonial, goalie Noah Franklin kicks the ball down the field to one of his teammates. “[Making varsity] felt really accomplished. It’s one of the best things that’s happened for me this year so far,” Franklin, sophomore said. The boys will go against Freedom at home tonight at 7:30 p.m.

By CIARA MCCOY

Being better than previous years has always been the goal of the boys’ soccer team, but this season they are more determined than ever.

The boys have not lost a game at home since last year and are 16-0 for home games. They also beat Osceola (2-1) this season opposed to last season when they lost (0-6).

“It’s an accomplishment that we’ve kept our winning streak at home. There is a lot less attitude and a lot more mutual respect from everybody,” sophomore Noah Franklin said.

Junior Ivan Kaled thinks this team is better than previous years’. He believes in the coaching staff and treating the players as individuals.

“We have a lot of chemistry. Last year we had a lot of talent, but we played as individuals. We’re a lot more serious this year,” Kaled said.

Practices directly affect how the team does in the games.

“[Practices] can be frustrating, but they unite the group,” senior Connor Wood said.

As the season progresses, the boys work more as a team. They have come together and everyone is communicating. This change in attitude is reflected in their ability to play well in games.

The three captains, seniors Juan Caceres, Connor Wood and Jonathan Craig are key players. They not only are strong players, but they provide

leadership on the field each game. Franklin is one of the team’s goalies

and had 13 saves in their game against Osceola, Caceres has two hat tricks, and Craig leads the team with six assists. Caceres currently leads the team with 19 goals.

“It all starts from the beginning [of the season]; we grow and communicate. Everybody is a smart player and we’ve been playing for a while,” Franklin said.

The boys are currently 4-2-2 with 17 games left in the season.

Every time they experience a loss they rework their strategy and learn from it.

“We are definitely a lot more focused; the kids on the team take it more seriously than last year. We did have more talent but we work as a team this year. Last year one player would try to do it all himself,” Kaled said.

Part of the change comes from the new coaching staff. Last year was coach Bobby Hurring’s first year but since this year is his second year, the boys have had more time to mesh together and get on the same page.

The boys feel he has a lot of experience and gets them pumped and ready to play their best.

“Our team has one more year of experience under the current coaching staff and very strong senior leadership. Most importantly, all of our players give us 100 percent each day,” assistant coach Trent Frederick said.

In the end, the boys main goal is to make it past districts and to states. They believe time and effort will make moving on to the playoffs a definite possibility.

Girls’ soccer team gains confidence through teamwork

By KARINA FLORES

As tensions run high on the field, the girls’ varsity soccer team maintains unprecedented chemistry this season, acting as one team for a common goal.

“When something happens on the field, something we did wrong, we know how to laugh about it because we’re all friends. We know we aren’t going to be awkward. We can pick everyone up,” senior captain Sloane Hudkins said.

The girls are currently 9-2-1 and head coach Brooke Smith anticipates the wins will continue to lead. They lost to Apopka High School (3-1) on Nov. 13. Mid-fielder senior Alexandra Clayton scored the only goal. Since their defeat, the team has come together and maintained a four game winning streak.

“We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Our good wins are due to us playing as one, using communication

and putting in effort on the field,” sophomore forward Emily Stearns said.

The teams’ success can also be attributed to captains senior Alexandra Clayton and senior Kayla Combs. Their dedication and skills on the field, along with their friendship off the field, motivates each other to improve.

These key players along with the other six seniors motivate the majority of the team made up of sophomores and juniors. The new additions to the team have brought on a new level of competition and have helped the team maintain their winning streak.

According to Smith, every player has to compete for a starting position and if one slacks off, they can be taken out very easily. Clayton and Combs lead by example, driving the underclassmen to be leaders themselves.

“The girls want to win and are willing to work hard for it. There is not just one leader on our team. We have many leaders at all ages,” Smith said.

Their strong win against East River High School (8-0) displays the teams’

confidence and talent gained through their newfound chemistry. Stearns and junior Sabdie Alvarado each scored two goals. Sophomore Kennedy Heath, juniors Rachel Bridewell and Dyana Herrera and senior Heidi Hill each tallied a goal. Stearns, Alvarado and Clayton each contributed with assists.

Smith believes the team will be able to qualify for districts and be able to compete in the final four. Improved communication, creative plays, leadership and team cohesiveness are qualities that will take the team further in the district finals.

“We have the talent and confidence to take on the usual top performers in our district,” Smith said.

The girls have four more games for the season until the district quarterfinals on Jan. 14.

So far the girls displayed defensive and offensive prowess by blowing out Cypress Creek (4-0), Edgewater (6-1), and Lake Nona (8-0).

The girls host the last home game against West Orange on Dec. 20.

Strong ties, high standards

CHASING THE GOAL. At the home game against Wekiva High School, junior forward Sabdie Alvarado makes her way to score one of the goals ensuring the team’s victory (4-0). “I practice my hardest everyday to play the best I can for my team and myself every game,” Alvarado said. The girls have high hopes to make it to the final four.

photo/KARINA FLORES

alt.

co

py

q3

q3

{ Editorials, page 2, feb. 8{


des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

2 Friday, February 8, 2013 hilights.org hi-lights

insightIt is said ‘if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.’James Downing, sophomore

In 2010-2011, 71 percent of Florida seniors graduated. This is higher than only five states and the District of Columbia. With low graduation rates, the state attacks teachers.

Measures like the 2011 Robert Marzano Teacher Evaluation System and the Florida Merit Pay Law, which bases half of a teacher’s evaluation on test scores, and eventually uses test scores to determine pay, are ineffective.

Weeding out poor teachers and looking for better evaluation methods is necessary, but as Florida tries to raise its graduation rate, it needs to focus on students more and teachers less.

A student’s learning cannot be forced. Yet current provisions like Marzano’s TES and Merit Pay fail to realize this. Furthermore the effects of poverty, mobility and homelessness on graduation rates are ignored and the resulting attempts to fix rates hurt teachers, instead of helping students.

In Central Florida, one in four students live in poverty, with concentrations in Orange and Osceola counties. High poverty rates often correlate with mobility or student turn-over. Orange County’s mobility rate in 2011 was 37 percent. This means that in an Orange County school, more than one in three students either enrolled or withdrew during the school year.

Yet, according to the state, Orange County has 95.5 percent stability. The gap is due to a 2001 Charlie Crist decision to measure stability instead of mobility. Orange and other counties continue to calculate mobility because it helps track high risk students.

The number of homeless students in Orange County increased over the past five years. In 2012, Orange County recorded 4,844 homeless students. Osceola County’s students are expected to reach 3,500 this spring; Seminole County had 1,865 in 2012.

Perhaps, if instead of targeting teachers, lawmakers targeted the students who are at highest risk for not graduating such as certain minorities, like male African Americans whose graduation rate in Florida is 57 percent, they would see higher graduation rates. This could be done through an evaluation system that awards teachers for originality instead of regulating it.

Some regulation is necessary, but the current teacher evaluation system and merit pay law are ineffectual. The state needs to rethink its attempt at raising graduation rates which merely inflicts regulations on teachers. Other factors like students and their living conditions, not just teachers, influence graduation rates.

The state and schools cannot be held entirely responsible. Despite a low state graduation rate and poor evaluation systems, students must realize it’s their responsibility to learn and no one else’s.

Less regulation, more dedication







ßletters to the editor ßfollowus

On Twitter @hilightsnp


Unfair for non-STEM majors I feel like a major’s cost would affect my decision and the decisions of other students. I would benefit from lower costs for STEM majors, but what about the people who don’t have sufficient math skills? In the way I can’t comprehend poetry, some students have harder times getting math, so they will be affected. Personally, it will further motivate me to major in something math-based since it is what I like and is cost-effective.

Michelle Duncan, senior

Major has to prove worthThe cost of a major can definitely

sway my opinion on whether or not I want to take it. Luckily, I am in a predicament in which money is accessible when needed for college, but it is not an endless fund. If the major is too expensive I would consider if it’s worth the extra cost and student loans and the availability of work after college. If not, I would move on to another major because of my wide array of interests.

Joshua Dawson, freshman

Chase dream, not price tagThe costs of a major would

not affect my choice on a major in college. It is said that “if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” In many cases, a college major is needed to do what you would love to do. Money should not be a factor in chasing your dreams to the career you would love. Even if money is not accessible from personal or family funds, there are enough financial aid programs and scholarships available to aid in the pursuit of the major of your choice. James Downing, sophomore

Any major ensures success The price of a major in college would not affect me or my decision because I know that in the long run getting any major will pretty much ensure me a better paying job and a brighter future.

Nathaniel Peardon, sophomore

ourv

iew

Gov. Rick Scott’s proposal to reduce tuition costs for STEM majors is unfair towards non-STEM majors .

< Literary scholars and history buffs looking to pursue a college degree in these fields might consider rethinking their major if Florida Governor Rick Scott gets his way.

With the proposal of the Blue Ribbon Task Force on State Higher Education Reform, degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering

or Math (STEM) will be offered at lower tuition costs than liberal arts degrees to appeal to prospective students.

The tuition for STEM majors will freeze for three years while the tuition for liberal arts majors will continue to rise the normal annual minimum of 15 percent to offset the costs.

Governor Scott justifies this unjust tuition gap by arguing the state’s need for these “strategic majors” in Florida’s job market and economy. This proposal seems like a businessman’s attempt to commercialize Florida’s university system in attempts to mass produce scientists and engineers for Florida’s workforce.

Admittedly, an influx of the tech-savvy and math wizards will fill the demand, but this unfair approach might do more harm than

good when looking at the broad picture and the task force’s intended results.

Generally, universities charge higher tuition for STEM majors to accommodate for the smaller class sizes, expensive lab equipment and extensive resources necessary for lessons and research.

Along with higher costs for the university, STEM graduates usually get paid more in the job market, thus balancing the costs. Scott’s task force will ignore the logical and traditional model to interest students with an education on a bargain.

This discount on degrees will surely attract students, whether they are invested in their major or not, hindering the appeal of the more costly non-“strategic” majors. Therefore, the departments’ funding, which is based on enrollment, will decrease. A nationally recognized program, such as University of Florida’s Latin American History Department will lose resources, respected professors will be laid off and the university’s overall prestige suffers. A once-respected program would be neglected.

Most importantly, students who lack natural talent in mathematics and science will be at a disadvantage to no fault of their own. People have different abilities and interests and hope to pursue them in education, but with the tuition gap, students might be faced with the decision to pursue

a degree they do not feel passionate about but can afford, or pay significantly more for the degree they love and enjoy.

This could result in a significant amount of unmotivated, disinterested students filling up classrooms and wasting time better spent on a degree they feel is worthwhile.

Ultimately, impact of the STEM discount will be limited by the sheer difficulty of its majors. Retention of STEM students has been a national problem. In addition, although statistics show these specific jobs are in high demand, no one can predict the future of a changing economy. Fields in high demand today, could become overcrowded or unnecessary tomorrow.

No university can guarantee a student a secure job or career with a four-year degree. On top of that, each niche has different demands. For instance, according to a study by the University of Florida, demand for bio-engineers is booming, while chemists are experiencing a 4.3 percent unemployment rate.

Alternatives such as making more scholarships and grants available for STEM majors, and sparking interest in STEM earlier in a student’s K-12 education could increase the number of STEM grads in future generations.

Tuition costs should be fair and non-discriminatory towards fields outside the elite STEM club. One’s choice of major and career path should not be based on its price tag.

illustration/KARINA FLORES

Governor promotes degree discrimination

STEM VS Non-STEMAverage unemployment rate in Florida

9.2% 7.7%

(Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)

‘source/Washington Post

degree degree

alt.

co

py

q3

{ Editorials, page 2, march 15 {


des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

2 Friday, March 15, 2013 hilights.org hi-lights

insight ‘The U.S. needs to re-enter the arena of the modern day space race as a sole competitor. Karina Flores, copy editor

Last month, a 10,000 ton, billion-year-old meteor, as if out of a sci-fi film, crashed in Russia causing thousands of injuries. This raises the question: What is “out there” and what is this nation doing to find out?

The retirement of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s shuttle fleet raises concern about whether the United States is doing its part in space exploration. Sparked by Russia’s launch of Sputnik at the height of the Cold War, the U.S. established NASA in 1958 in hopes of being the leader in space exploration. Subsequently, the “space race” began between the United States, Russia and China. But within the last decade, it seems our involvement is declining.

It is approximately 54 years later and the United States lost the urgency and drive it once had to be at the forefront of space travel; the “space race” is not over. The nation needs to put aside bureaucratic politics, remain on the global stage of space exploration and rally public interest to engage a new generation deeper into space.

Endorsing American space exploration will advance technological developments, as it has done in decades past, benefitting the environment (obviously addressing global

warming), communications, defense, tourism, commercial entrepreneurship and education, which can all benefit the nation’s economy as a whole, while staying at the top of the game globally.

Past developments include the telephone, the microwave, swimwear, UV coating and water filters. These innovations are common today, but would not have been possible without the research and initiative of NASA. Funding and resources are available, but are not sufficient. With an increase in resources coupled with increasingly sophisticated technology, the possibilities for what NASA can innovate now are endless, but cooperation and funds are crucial.

Since its beginning, NASA has been subject to government pressures and political drama. With each presidential administration comes its own plans, recommendations and budget restraints for NASA’s goals. One long-term priority is to visit an asteroid by 2025.

According to a report from the National Research Council, limited evidence shows consensus on the nation’s goals for space exploration, whether within NASA’s own work force, the nation as a whole, or internationally. Causes to this issue include congressional meddling, special interests and bureaucratic drama that inhibits NASA projects such as rocket construction and shuttle expeditions.

The public has come to know NASA as an agency plagued with delays, cutbacks

and, unfortunately, tragedy. NASA must rebuild its reputation independent from political pressures to ensure efficiency and the continuation of space voyages. At the beginning of his second term, President Barack Obama suggested a complete restructuring of the NASA program to reduce costs and improve efficiency. With this, other nations will want to partner with the U.S. to continue large-scale space expeditions, alongside Russia in the International Space Station program.

Due to its lack of self-efficiency, NASA and the U.S. are now dependent on international partners, specifically Russia, and commercial, private sector companies to help accomplish their goals, including future transport of astronauts to the International Space Station. Although the addition of partners involve bigger budgets, it also involves more voices and directions that mislead NASA’s own goals, causing it to lose its footing as the nation’s prestigious space program.

China and Russia have explicit, concrete exploration plans and committed budgets. For example, China has decreased their military spending to accomplish a steady pace with clear objectives and realistic goals such as launching its own lab and sending powerful manned spaceships.

The U.S. needs to re-enter the arena of the modern-day space race as a competitor, while working with outside resources, to promote the nation’s trek to unravel its mysteries and improve future science and technology.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are calling prescription drug abuse an epidemic. That makes sense. After all, they are drugs.

There is another epidemic in this country, but it doesn’t necessarily involve “drugs.”

This issue the paper covers smoking marijuana, cigarettes and hookah and dipping tobacco, but these aren’t real drugs because cigarettes, hookah and dipping tobacco are legal for adults, and marijuana was legalized for recreation in Colorado and Oregon this past November, right? Wrong.

According to drugabuse.gov, since 1991, the perceived risk in smoking marijuana has decreased 15 percent, but the smoking of marijuana has increased by the same amount for 12th graders. While marijuana does have small side effects compared to heavier drugs, it can cause short-term memory loss, possibly lung cancer, and it is psychologically addictive, according to webmd.com. One in 12 people feel withdrawal symptoms if they cannot get high when they want.

If something alters one’s state of being and he can’t live without it, he is addicted. It is an unhealthy practice.

Cigarette smoking, while legal nationwide, and not considered a “drug,” has far worse consequences than marijuana. There are over 600 ingredients in cigarettes which range from arsenic to formaldehyde. Essentially, smoking causes death.

In the United States, 443,000 deaths are caused each year by cigarettes. That’s one in five. In 2009, 7.3 percent of high school students were frequent cigarette users, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hookah, a middle eastern tradition, which involves smoking flavored tobacco through a tube, is considered more cultural than anything, and hookah bars seem to be trending, but it can also harm health.

The flavor, smoothness of inhaling hookah smoke and social factors all mask the fact that hookah is tobacco. Since hookah is typically a social event, it’s possible that a hookah smoker inhales more smoke than a cigarette smoker because sessions last longer.

Also in the tobacco family, smokeless tobacco was used by 8.9 percent of high schoolers in 2009, according to the CDC. While most harmful side effects of chewing tobacco are related to one’s pearly whites not staying so pearly, the most serious side effect of dipping is cancer.

Thinking a substance isn’t as toxic because the word drug isn’t attributed to it is ridiculous. It does not matter if all of these products are considered “drugs” or not. They’re still harmful to the user’s health. For information on more health effects and quitting, go to www.quitnow.org

If it’s legal, it can’t be bad, right?



ourv

iew

Space exploration is vital for future science and technology and needs to be promoted vigoriously.

<

NASA loses ‘Space race’ lead

hi-lightsnewspaper

EDITORIAL BOARDEditor-In-Chief Lindsay AlexanderDesign Editor Anna Marie BoriaCopy Editor Karina FloresBusiness Manager Lizzy GordonIndex Editor Delanee BoganWebmaster Bridgette NorrisCampus and Local Editor Thomas EganFeatures Editor Lia VillarSports Editor Chase GardnerEntertainment Editor Cooper Brock

STAFFERS Meghan Cotton, Jackson Crumbly, Conor Curry, Gabriella Fakhoury, Kaley Gilbert, Austin Hall, Josh Halloran, Sam Holleman, Jordan Knight, Ciara McCoy, Tommy McDonald, Mackenzie Mock, Olivia Quatrone, Gavin Waters



Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or libelous 2. The material is signed




source/ dsc.discovery.com

Innovation to invention

Invisible braces made from material

created to protect infrared

antennae of heat-seeking

missile trackers.

Memory foam created to lessen

impact during

landings.

Water filterscreated to convert

contaminated water

to pure water. Now

used in daily life.

Household smoke detectors the astronauts would

need to know if a

fire had started or if

noxious gases were

loose in the vehicle

illustration/ KARINA FLORES

Long-distance communicationspossible because of NASA’s

satellites built to

transmit messages

and photos.

alt.

co

py

q3

Design{{

{ Editorials, page 2, may 10{

What’s mine: storyq3 q captions

des

ign

sq

pho

tgr

aphy

I turn 18-years-old today, and I graduate in 19 days.

19 days. My 13 years in the Orange County

Public School system will end. I thought I couldn’t wait to be an adult and start college, but the more I think about it, I realize while I’m excited for the future, the last four years were not so bad. In fact, they were good.

The first day of freshman year, equipped with bangs and braces, I walked to the bus stop and the first thing I heard was a guy yelling profanities at our late bus. I thought, “This is high school, get used to it.”

After a few weeks, I realized campus was not the size of New York City, and I actually did not need public transport to get to class on time.

My eager-to-fit-in-freshman-self wanted to be a part of something that would look impressive for colleges.

I ran for sophomore secretary. I didn’t get that. Then I tried out for the cheer team; I wasn’t even sure what a herky was. The outcome of that is obvious.

Once I had failed magnificently twice in a two week period, it came to me. I didn’t have to be some super star who saved the world before bedtime. I needed to do what I liked and let the pieces fall into place. I liked writing, so I applied for newspaper staff. It’s clear where that got me. Read the editor position next to my byline.

Despite common belief that high school isn’t real life and it doesn’t matter, it does. High school can be petty and trivial, but students make high school what they want it to be. There are lots of options, take advantage of them. Even if being on the Hi-Lights staff pales in comparison to being a New York Times reporter, I’ve still gained vital life experience, and I’m having a lot more fun on Hi-Lights than any NYT reporter is.

If nothing else is motivating, high school is one big freebie, so take advantage of its opportunities.

For students sailing in the “I hate high school and don’t want to be here” boat, that’s legitimate, but high school is just four years; trying to have at least a mediocre time never killed anyone. At least, I think it’s highly unlikely.

As this article is scanned by the eyes of the student body, my childhood is rapidly sprinting in the other direction. It’s hard to believe that everything about the senior class’s world changes in 19 days. Although hearing music in the halls, seeing orange everywhere and breathing in that faint ketchup smell that never entirely leaves the cafeteria can be annoying, I’ll miss it.

I’m about to step off my Editor-In-Chief soap box for the last time. Here are my last two cents: Don’t flounder your high school years. Do something meaningful with them that you will not only remember, but will never forget.

Do something unforgettable



ßyourthoughts

ourv

iew

Students need to understand the meaning of integrity and realize one’s actions can have lasting effects.

<hi-lightsnewspaper

EDITORIAL BOARDEditor-In-Chief Lindsay AlexanderDesign Editor Anna Marie BoriaCopy Editor Karina FloresBusiness Manager Lizzy GordonIndex Editor Delanee BoganWebmaster Bridgette Norris

STAFFERS Cooper Brock, Meghan Cotton, Jackson Crumbly, Conor Curry, Thomas Egan, Gabriella Fakhoury, Chase Gardner, Kaley Gilbert, Austin Hall, Josh Halloran, Sam Holleman, Jordan Knight, Ciara McCoy, Tommy McDonald, Mackenzie Mock, Olivia Quatrone, Lia Villar, Gavin Waters




Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or

libelous 2. The material is signed



Low integrity, no respect “Who posted

that?” “She got suspended?” “Wow, he doesn’t seem like the person to do that.” Comments like these are becoming too common throughout campus; it appears as though integrity is rapidly declining among high school students.

Academic dishonesty, racy photos, inappropriate posts and lewd behavior plague the generation. As the new “Plugged-in” generation copes with the increasing use of social media and a changing society, where these actions are apparently deemed acceptable. Reality television shows like The Real World or The Jersey Shore depict questionable behavior without showing lasting consequences.

Students need to step back and evaluate their choices, and stop making rash decisions that could potentially embarrass them or produce unwanted consequences. One’s behavior on and off-line affects one’s reputation among peers and teachers, generates serious consequences and has lasting effects on life after high school.

Understandably, high school is a time to make mistakes and learn and grow from them, but it seems obvious that some mistakes should be avoided, seeing as the consequences outweigh the lesson learned. As many of us know, the Class of 2013 is still suffering the consequences from the famed, last day of school in 2010 (including the unusual combo of water balloons and pepper spray).

A tweet like “Aww man, almost got arrested! lol #ohwell” can be seen as a way to boost one’s “bad boy persona,” but really it reads “I made a very irresponsible decision and almost suffered the consequences #goingtoregretthislater.”

Although it is behind a computer

screen, a tweet, post or picture is attached to one’s name, which carries one’s reputation. An impulsive post can affect how others perceive one’s character and how seriously one is taken in the future. Students cannot always determine what is a joke or an exaggeration.

At school, one can be seen as the straight-A responsible club leader, but online one portrays himself as the hardcore partier, accompanied with pictures as proof. How are one’s peers supposed to determine which version to believe and respect? Reckless behavior and inappropriate comments are not taken lightly. Such things can result in disciplinary actions at school, such as referrals, suspensions or expulsions.

Certain things are better left unsaid on and off the web, as it could cost someone their reputation.

Unfortunately, teenagers gossip and rumors spread. And whether one likes to acknowledge it or not, teachers and administration are like omnipresent watchers of hallways and classrooms. One would not want a teacher writing a recommendation letter with a rumor of one’s scandalous spring break in the back of their head.

Academic dishonesty is one example of behavior that has taken on a new level, becoming more prevalent. Teachers and other adults keep this in mind and will question one’s character.

This goes beyond high school. Soon, employers will take notice of one’s behavior on and off-line, which can decide between being employed or job-less. As early as college, professors will not be as forgiving as high school teachers. High school teachers seem to disregard reckless or rude behavior as juvenile shenanigans, but once one walks across the stage at graduation that excuse is no longer applicable.

Next time, before typing that tweet, posting that photo or acting obnoxious at school, think about what peers, a future boss, grandma or more threatening, your mother, would think. Would they approve?

photoillustration/KARINA FLORES

I feel like [Boone] isn’t the worst school, there’s more bullying, threats, and trying to be “cool.” They joke about these things, but it’s not funny.

Travis Snethen, senior

I think it’s teenagers in general. It has become more of a morality and respect thing. It used to stay at home, but now it’s affecting the school.

Hope Garcia-Chavez, junior

It isn’t just Boone and it isn’t just teenagers. It’s more society trying to make other people into what they think they are supposed to be.

Veronica Mahoney, freshman

teens ask someone on a date through text

use the Internet for things they would not say in person

use the Internet to end relationships

1 in 10 teens spend more than 3 hours online a day,which is equal to 25% of the hours one is awake.

THEFACTS

Reference Drug use 41%

Mention Sex 24%

14% Violence

Sent Nude Pictures 28%

Percentages of high school students that have shared personal information online and through texting about themselves.

90%

of high school students admitted to cheating either by:>Copying homework>Copying test answers >Using Crib notes

22%

43%

13%

SOURCE/www.keepyourchildsafe.org

2 Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org hi-lights

insight ‘Here are my last two cents: Don’t flounder your high school years.Lindsay Alexander, editor-in-chief

What do you think about student integrity on campus?

alt.

co

py

q3q3

multimedia/ open{{

{{

What’s mine: storyq3 captionsq

des

ign

sp

hotg

rap

hyal

t. c

op

y

q3

q

http://teacherpress.ocps.net/hilights/2013/01/11/winter-premiere-brings-chills/

q3

Winter premiere brings chills

By KARINA FLORES

‘A’ IS BACK. Lies and secrets stir up drama for the “Liars” in the winter season premiere of Pretty Little Liars. The next episode will air Jan. 15 at 8 p.m.Lies, secrets and the ever-present ‘A’ stir the town of Rosewood, with the winter premiere of ABC Family’s Pretty Little Liars on Jan. 8.

Based on the best-selling book series by Sara Sheperd, the popular teen mystery-thriller returned with “She’s Better Now.” The major shocker: Mona (Janel Parrish) is reintroduced after a months long visit to the local psychiatric hospital. Her attempts to make amends with the “Liars” she tortured fell short as she remained to act unstable and suspicious.

The previous Halloween special dropped shocking bombs: Garrett (Yani Gellman) is dead, Alison’s (Sasha Pieterse) is found and Toby (Keegan Allen) is revealed as one of the notorious black-hooded-jacket wearing mem-bers of the ‘A’ Team. Unfortunately, other than Toby’s obvious menacing glares, any hints of him being involved in any ‘A’ schemes were not visible. The show lacked its usual on edge suspense, but nonetheless no one is safe in Rosewood.

As if the return of the believed ‘A’ was not enough to stir up trouble at Rosewood High, Aria’s (Lucy Hale) father’s former mistress Meredith (Amanda Schull) acts as the girls’ new government teacher, adding tension with a nasty confrontation after class. The extent of

Meredith’s involvement with her father is unclear leaving Aria bitter towards her dad whose secrets are beginning to unravel.

Another addition to Rosewood High, is the strange janitor, who happens to be the same man at the front desk of the inn Alison stayed at and where the girl’s found the ‘A”s lair. In Rosewood, nothing is a coincidence causing the girls to grow suspicious and investigate. It is obvious he is involved with the ‘A’ Team when Spencer (Troian Bellisario) and Emily (Shay Mitch-ell), Hanna (Ashley Benson) and Aria find Alison’s diary in his office.

And as always, no one is safe at a Rose-wood town event. The girls’ are usually wearing gowns or costumes when ‘A’ strikes, but at the Rosewood 10K Run they sported a t-shirt and sneakers. Meredith fell into a trap, apparently set by Mona, resulting in injury. This can be perceived as a desperate, radical attempt to gain the trust of the girls.

Next week, one should expect a deeper look into the secrets revolved around Aria’s father and Alison and hopefully new rev-elations on Toby’s involvement. Catch the next episode on ABC Family on Jan. 15, at 8 p.m.

The 411

Show Title: Pretty Little Liars

Release date: 1/08/2013

{{http://teacherpress.ocps.net/hilights/2013/01/11/winter-premiere-brings-chills/

‘A’ IS BACK. Lies and secrets stir up drama for the “Liars” in the winter season premiere of Pretty Little Liars. The next episode will air Jan. 15 at 8 p.m.

{{


des

ign

sp

hotg

rap

hyal

t. c

op

y

q3

q

http://teacherpress.ocps.net/hilights/2013/04/15/reservation-welcomes-new-citizens-2/

q3

Reservation welcomes new citizens

BY KARINA FLORES

REALIZING THE DREAM. Applicants re-ceive their citizenship certificate after taking the Oath of Allegiance, completing the final step in receiving American Citizenship. photo/ELIZABETH GORDONShowing support for the applicants who filed into the auditorium to attend their own natu-ralization ceremony and receive their certifi-cation of citizenship, a banner made by stu-dents hung in front of the auditorium reading “Boone Welcomes New Citizens”.

On April 11, the Reservation hosted their first United States naturalization ceremony for 100 people from 34 countries as part of Law Week, a national Bar Association program in April that celebrates the rule of law in our society. The year’s theme is “Realizing the Dream: Equality for All”. Orange County School Board Chairman and former Orange County Bar Association President Bill Sublette acted as the keynote speaker to honor the new citizens.

Attorney Teresa Finer, the head of the immi-gration department at Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, coordinated with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Orange County Bar Association with a goal, not only to grant people from all over the world citizenship, but offer students and the community an opportunity to witness people from all over the world become fellow Amer-ican citizens and to promote understanding about the processes involved in immigration

in days where immigration law is being debated in the forefront in national politics.

Finer enlisted help from Law Magnet teachers, Kim Davison and Laura Crolla, and geography teacher Suzanne Unger to invite students to attend and experience the ceremony. Finer deems the event a success attracting an audience that filled the auditorium, including students and teachers alongside the applicants’ family and friends.

“I loved it. It was truly meaningful and I could tell the students thought so too. The ceremony gave students and the community a chance to experi-ence a sense of patriotism. I could tell the audience was touched and am glad so many showed up to watch,” Finer said.

Students who attended felt the emotion in the room as people walked one by one across the stage, certificate in hand, as American citizens for the first time. Senior Shaffaq Noor is president of the Serendipity Club which promotes unity and un-derstanding among different cultures. Noor felt the ceremony exemplifies the club’s message.

“This ceremony was beautiful. It showed that we can all live in unity and peace. There were people from all different countries out there today so ex-cited to become a part of this community and they were so proud to be an American,” Noor said.

Noor has not yet started the process to become an American citizen, moving here from Pakistan as a young child, but is now inspired by the ceremony to begin as soon as possible.

Family and friends presented the newly sworn-in citizens with red, white and blue-themed gift bags, flower bouquets and balloons. There was a sense of

patriotism and unity that filled the room. One applicant, Anastasia Ladanyi, tearfully expressed her appreciation for the ceremony and recogni-tion.

“This ceremony is very special. When I began the process, I thought I was going to go to an office a Friday afternoon and receive my certif-icate, but this meant a lot to me. I was able to represent my country and I am grateful for this opportunity,” Ladanyi said.

Ladanyi was assigned a number by the Hungari-an government,37, out of hundreds of applicants and chosen at random to be able to apply for American citizenship from her native country, Hungary.

Others have been living in the U.S. for years, but have waited or have been completing the long process to be naturalized. One man from Haiti said it was the last thing he needed to become a part of his family, who are all naturaLized citizens.

The ceremony ended with applause, hugs and endless picture-taking.

Finer hopes the ceremony opens discussion between students, teachers and the community to promote equality and help others accomplish the “American Dream”.

REALIZING THE DREAM. Applicants receive their citizenship certificate after taking the Oath of Allegiance, completing the final step in receiving American Citizenship. photo/ELIZABETH GORDON

http://teacherpress.ocps.net/hilights/2013/04/15/reservation-welcomes-new-citizens-2/{ {

{{


des

ign

sp

hotg

rap

hyal

t. c

op

y

q3

q


q3

Girls take on Wildcats

On Dec. 18, the Lady Braves varsity soccer team lost the conference game against the Winter Park Wildcats at Winter Park, the number one seed in the District Tournament, 0-1.

In the first half of the game, the teams were at a stalemate with neither team scoring. The ball was in equal possession through the first half. Junior Sabdie Alvarado and senior Kayla Combs lead the team in saves. Both teams had two fouls, marking the intensity of the match-up.

The girls put up a fight until the third quarter when Winter Park’s Celina Pou scored the first goal of the night. The pressure was on for the Lady Braves who continued to block potential scores from Winter Park. The Wildcats kept the lead until the end of the match.

The girls’ season is now 10-3-1. The Lady Braves will play West Orange on Thursday, Dec. 20, at 7:30 p.m. This is their senior night; recognition will begin at 7:15.

GIRLS TAKE A HIT. The Lady Braves varsity soccer team lose to the Winter Park Wildcats (0-1) on Dec. 18 at Winter Park. photo/KARINA FLORES

{{


des

ign

sp

hotg

rap

hyal

t. c

op

y

q3

q


q3

https://www.facebook.com/lowndes.law

http://www.lowndes-law.com/news/1434-reservation-welcomes-new-citizens

Documents

Karina Flores Portfolio 2013