by Adam Kopp ‘11 Given America’s current involvement in the Middle East and the past century’s “Domino Theory”-inspired spats with communism, one might think that the United States would fully support a website with the stated purpose of “exposing oppressive regimes in Asia, the former Soviet bloc, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East.” The website in question is WikiLeaks, … Read More
In 1999 Dr. Jerry Weast, then 52, was appointed Superintendent of Schools at MCPS. While in office, Weast led efforts to narrow Montgomery County’s achievement gap and to enroll more students in honors and AP classes. MSA scores rose 6.7 percent during Weast’s tenure. The rate of “highly qualified teachers” in MCPS rose 22.2 percent since 2004 and suspension rates … Read More
by Devin Cornelius ‘12 By enacting an open lunch policy, Sherwood would grant students a much-needed 40 minutes of freedom. It’s 10:53 and the bell finally rings, getting you out of a vapid history lecture. Ahh, lunchtime: your only free period to socialize, study, eat or even catch a quick nap. But strangely, you’re not as excited as you … Read More
by Jessica Carrera ‘12 With headlines like “Is China already the world’s No. 1 economy?” and “China a U.S. rival? Many Chinese think not- or not yet,” it is hard not to think that the United States, the world’s current “super power,” will one day (soon) lose its status. The problem? Education. With the United States’ economy not doing so … Read More
by Christopher Jou ‘12 Of the many issues up for debate in America today, perhaps the most important is education reform. While the country’s school systems are plagued with issues such as nonsensical scheduling, below-par performance and lack of innovation, one rarely discussed but fundamental shortcoming is the nonsensical scheduling of both the length of the school day and … Read More
by Arjun Singh ‘12 Students are all different and unique and so is their writing, but they can be better writers when they are given the freedom to explore any topic they want. Without many restrictions, students can put forth their best work, but this often is not the case. Many English classes force essay upon essay on students … Read More
by Max Simpson ‘11 Programming on the History Channel has taken a noticeable turn over the past few years. The recent premiere of “Only in America With Larry the Cable Guy” (although it is hilarious) did not seem to fit in with the programs you would expect on a channel previously dedicated to documentaries. Other recent shows such as … Read More
by Rebecca Stussman ‘12 This past Monday, I met with my counselor, as the administration advised all juniors to do, and was informed that I am in danger of not graduating. My grades are fine, my service hours complete, my HSAs passed, so what was the problem? After taking some of the most rigorous math, science and literature courses … Read More
by Leah Schroeder ‘13 Libraries used to be community gathering places where people could conduct research for various projects and find books to read over the weekend. All the same, library use has been exponentially declining. On January 1, the Olney Library closed its doors for renovations and won’t reopen until fall 2012. In the past, this move would … Read More
by Mandy Stussman ‘14 Forced gym activities make students resent excercise and their physical limitations. Physical Education. A phrase that to some brings joy and excitement, but to others brings terror and embarrassment. For many students, P.E. is a fun addition to their day, an escape from their more difficult academic classes. But for others, gym class is … Read More