Paul Revere Charter Middle School
August/September/October 2012
Volume 57, Issue 1
CST Scores Surge
Revere’s API rises to 897, an all-time high
By PETER JEBSEN
performance level, based on the
results of statewide testing.”
California’s statewide API goal
Paul Revere’s scores on the
California Standards Test contin- is 800 for all schools, a score
ue to rise. The results for the 2011- Revere passed six years ago. This
2012 school year were released on year’s score was 22 points higher
Oct. 12th and Mrs. Somoza, the than last year’s.
Revere has been steadily raisschool’s principal, said she was
ing its test scores, even though
elated by the numbers.
“Our students performed phe- teachers have been laid off and
nomenally well on the CST last the budget has been cut several
year!” she declared. “Due to the times. “At Revere we fight these
extraordinary efforts of students, problems by supporting each
teachers, administrators and staff other and having wonderful parworking together with a goal in ent support organizations,” said
mind, almost all student groups Mrs. Somoza.
“More parents have demonstrated
scored well above the Growth Tara willingness to send their chilgets set in 2011.”
The school’s API score of 897 dren to Revere than ever beset an all-time Revere record. Ac- fore,” she said. “We have a focus
cording to the California Depart- on continuous improvement for
ment of Education’s website, “The all students. That is the collecAPI is a single number, ranging tive goal for the entire staff, and
from a low of 200 to a high of we hope and encourage students
1000, which reflects a school’s to feel the same way.”
Mr. Anderson enthusiastically explains an algebra concept to his 8th grade Magnet students in E-3.
An Algebra Problem?
By SAM HARRISON and
HARRISON LARKINS
What if people learned that
every algebra problem they had
ever completed was unnecessary for their future and may
have actually lowered their
chances of graduating from
high school? That’s what New
York Times reporter Andrew
Hacker claims to be the case.
In an article titled “Is Algebra Necessary?” that was published over the summer, Hacker
writes that one in four American ninth graders fail to finish
Summer Memories 6
high school. He says that most
of the educators he has talked
to cite algebra as the major academic reason for this astonishing number of dropouts.
Hacker reports that “in the
decade ahead a mere 5 percent
of entry-level workers will need
to be proficient in algebra or
above.” If all these students are
lowering their chances of getting into a good career because
of one subject, why should they
have to learn it?
Several of Revere’s algebra teachers were asked about
Hacker’s controversial comments
Getting in Tune 8
Trevor relaxes in the St. Croix sun. Revere’s choir rehearses a song.
and if they believe algebra
should be taught in the classroom even if so few individuals
may actually need it on the job.
“Algebra provides the foundation for all upper level mathematics courses,” stated Ms.
Stewart. “It teaches you to think
logically through the process of
problem solving. Algebra guided me through the process of
learning to break problems into
parts, translating words into
equations, and finally being
able to arrive at a solution that
made sense.”
Continued on page 5
Our Shrinking Summer
The fact that 8th graders didn’t
get issued lockers until weeks later
Many people define summer, proved to be a problem for a maas fun with family, friends and last- jority of the oldest Patriots. Julia
ing memories away from the busy Monkarsh said, “I think that this was
school schedule, but for many in unfair because the 8th graders have
the district, this summer wasn’t long waited for three years to get things
enough for adventures in the sun and first. Our teachers had already handsand. Getting out on June 19th and ed out textbooks, and some were
returning on Aug. 14th gave Patri- expecting us to bring them everyots only a short eight weeks for the day. We didn’t have anywhere to put
normally ten week break, and made them and had to carry them around
it harder to transition to the sudden in our backpacks instead.”
According to Mr. Hernandez,
arrival of back-to-school.
To save valuable school time, the schedule change has left him less
Revere held Registration Days the time than usual to teach “Hamlet” to
week before school’s start. Text- his Shakespeare elective.
During P.E., Patriots in the later
books, planners and hall lockers
(for 6th and 7th graders only) were periods of the day had to run and
assigned. Even more unexpected play sports in the August heat, which
was the photo station, in which pic- made it harder for students who had
tures for the yearbook and ID’s were record-breaking goals in mind.
taken. This surprising ‘develop- Although school is back in sesment’ left students with a less than sion, many Patriots are still wondering, “Where did the summer go?”
‘picture-perfect’ smile.
By SHANNON LEE
Celebrity Sightings 9
Having a Ball 10
Tiana takes a photo with Louis.
Mr. Foxson shares his original game.
Smashing Sports Stars 11
Rayne makes a “Max Impact.”
2 August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Editor-in-Chief:
Caroline Bamberger
Reporters and
Photographers:
Alicia Abramson
Emi Arevalo
Margaret Boelter
Sam Harrison
Peter Jebsen
Sophie Krasny
Harrison Larkins
Shannon Lee
JoJo Levey
Alon Levi
Lilly McClure
Julia Monkarsh
Angel Ogwo
Bettina Papageorge
Abner Santiago
Hannah Shabtian
Claire Spector
Cole Stanton
Yoni Strugatsky
Claire Suisman
Graphics:
Marissa Angelich
Gabriel Galef
Harrison Gelber
Spencer Howard
Hunter Loncar
Autumn Wagner
Faculty Advisor:
Mr. Wechsler
Should teachers share their
political views with students?
As we near the 2012 presidential election, the
campus is abuzz with a variety of political views and
many teachers are passionate about their own opinions. However, when does a teacher cross the line
between enthusiastic and encroaching?
Now, a teacher can say, “I’m a Republican, and I
want Romney to win,” and that’s all fine and dandy.
But an issue arises when he or she starts bashing
other people’s views. Imagine being that student, sitting in class while your teacher forces his or her own
opinions down your throat. What if you don’t agree?
If a teacher consistently preaches that a student’s beliefs are wrong and bad, that student would likely feel
unwelcome in that class.
On the other hand, a lot of students are curious
to hear their teachers’ opinions, so why should they
hold back? After all, the majority of students are yet
I think it is appropriate for teachers to share their political opinions
with students as long as they don’t
tell you to vote for a certain candidate. Their opinions can involve
students in politics and give them
more ideas about the two candidates.—Hannah Megery, 7th Grade
Teachers are here to teach one
subject, and I don’t think there’s
a political subject. By saying their
views and agenda, they might influence student opinions.
—Noah Lev Schoolsky, 8th Grade
When students see different points
of view, it allows them to think of
the other person’s reasoning. This
can help students when they get to
vote.—Brittany Darrow, 6th Grade
It isn’t appropriate for teachers to
share their political opinions with
students because students could
lose respect for their teachers.
—Owen Plofker, 7th Grade
Opinionated views can lead to
fresh perspectives and open discussions, which are both important aspects of learning. Although
many feel that bringing in opinions can get in the way of factual
information, sometimes being
neutral doesn’t encourage students
to participate by asking questions
or sharing their voices.
—Shannon Lee, 8th Grade
to form a political opinion other than their parents’,
so hearing another responsible adult’s view should be
nothing but beneficial.
Overall, teachers need to discern where to draw
the line in the sand. It’s perfectly fine to express political facts and state their own opinions as long as
teachers refrain from trashing other beliefs. Teachers should also try their best to portray others’ ideas
and do so in a respectful manner, being sensitive to
other points of view. It is, however, unacceptable for
a teacher to speak about politics in a way that makes
any students uncomfortable or feel unwanted.
With the presidential election right around the
corner, Revere’s Patriots were asked how they feel
about teachers who share their political views with
students. It turns out many had a lot to say.
—Caroline Bamberger
Some students may be offended by
the teacher’s opinion, which may
interfere with their learning.
—Lucie Hodgson, 8th Grade
A classroom is a place where
kids should learn unbiased ideas
and a teacher saying “I don’t like
Obama” or “global warming is a
lie” can make a student uncomfortable.—Peter Jebsen, 7th Grade
Teachers should be free to voice their
opinions in class as part of a lecture,
but they must be clear that these are
their personal political views, and not
what everybody should think. Teachers shouldn’t force their opinions or
insist that their beliefs are right. They
should be open to what other people
believe, and encourage students to
voice their own views in a class discussion. —Claire Suisman, 8th Grade
Teachers know a lot about the elections. They don’t necessarily have to
persuade students to share the same
ideas, but they can explain both
sides. —Ariana Abhati, 6th Grade
I don’t see the harm in teachers expressing their feelings about politics
in class, unless they try to make you
believe in something you don’t.
—Landon Christian, 7th Grade
It is good to let kids learn about
politics at an early age so we know
more about our country.
—Robert King, 7th Grade
Teachers should not try to persuade students to change their
opinion.
—Shamanny Ervin, 8th Grade
Students might not have the same
opinion and they might be very
disappointed about their teacher’s
opinion or their parents might not
allow their kids to discuss any political opinions.
—Ava Sahebi, 6th Grade
Opinionated thoughts can lead to
different arguments, and can make
others uncomfortable, especially
when it comes to politics or religion. Still, I believe that it is okay
for teachers to express their political
views in front of other students to
some extent.
—Yoni Strugatsky, 7th Grade
When teachers clearly point out
their political views with students,
it could make them feel attacked or
annoyed. They might be scared to
speak up for what they believe in,
for fear that the teacher will shoot
them down or lower their grade.
—Bettina Papageorge, 8th Grade
Opinions from teachers can open
students’ minds and cause them to
think. When pupils discuss issues
with each other, this is a healthy
part of learning.
—Alicia Abramson, 7th Grade
Paul Revere Charter Middle School
Hopelessness Is
Not an Option
ANGEL OGWO
At Revere we have students who may have challenges that others
do not face. When they can’t take the pain any more they might think
that they have no good options and consider doing something harmful
to themselves—even suicide.
Teen suicide is a tragedy which no family should go through. According to the Daily News, the number one cause of teen suicide is bullying. Victims of bullying feel dejected and worthless. In most cases,
this ugly situation might not be noticed by the teachers or the parents
until it’s too late.
However, victims actually try to communicate their problems to
others.Therefore, it is important for teachers to play close attention
to their students, in order to be able to notice and stop any act bullying. Parents must pay close attention to their children to observe any
changes in their behavior which might be as a result of bullying.
Teens as young adults tend to try to handle their problems by
themselves without telling anybody because of fear of what their peers
would think about them. They are afraid of being called a snitch or a
weakling. So they internalize their problems until it is too late. A cordial
line of communication among teachers, students and parents would go
a long way to curbing teen suicide and its tragic consequences.
News Is
Knowledge
HARRISON LARKINS
Although South Korean rapper Psy’s insanely popular “Gangnam
Style” is wildly entertaining, maybe the millions of teens who’ve
clicked on his music video could get a broader world education from
listening to the news. I know, watching a rotund Korean man dance
like a horse is awesome, but learning about pressing world issues like
modern day slavery and the Arab Spring is awesome too.
Now, some of you might be thinking, “What! Slavery? I thought that
ended in the 1800s!” It’s very difficult to understand, but slavery is
still quite prevalent in some poorer countries. In fact, there’s a shocking 2 to 3 million slaves living in the world at this very moment. And
that’s not the only disturbing piece of world information there is. In the
Middle Eastern country of Syria, the President, Bashar al-Assad, and his
military police are murdering thousands of their own countrymen. Could
you imagine President Obama dropping bombs on your neighborhood?
When you learn of these horrible and wonderful world events (yes,
“Gangnam Style” counts, too), it teaches you about fellow humans,
and most definitely shows you that you’re not the only one in this
world. Most importantly, you’ll develop a sense of perspective about
who you are and where you belong in this ocean of people. You’ll
begin to rethink what really is “lucky” or “unlucky.” Also, you’ll
impress your teachers and peers with your astonishing knowledge of
world events, and be more accepting and kind to people of all different
backgrounds—which will certainly make you some new friends!
Remember—it doesn’t matter as much where someone is from
or what they look like, but who they are in their heart and mind. So
the next time you’re lounging around at home, why not pick up the
newspaper or turn on the TV to CNN? You’ll be surprised about all the
knowledge you will gain.
August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Paul Revere Charter Middle School 3
The Books Are
Coming!
The “BookEnds” program
returned to Revere during the
first week of October. As the
week progressed, Patriots had
the opportunity to bring their
used books to their homerooms.
Student Council members
picked them up and sorted them
out so that they could be donated
to students at other schools who
could put them to good use.
“There is nothing called overachieving,” said Student Council
Historian Amir Ebtehadj. “Helping others is the key to success.”
Just on the first day, Mr.
Carnine’s class had raised over
300 books, putting them in the
lead, at least for the day. But by
the end of the week, Mr. Hernandez’s homeroom came out on
top with a total of 808 books.
One student alone, Claire Prall–
Freedman, brought in 356 from
her religious school. Ms. Petchprom’s class came in a close second with 784 books, and finally
Mr. Oberman’s class with 736
books was third. Overall, Revere
collected 7,370 books.
On Thurs., Oct. 11th, Student
Council members traveled to
Leo Politi Elementary School
to celebrate the delivery of over
3,000 books to their library.
Revere’s representatives were
treated like celebrities with an
enthusiastic reception in the
school assembly hall that featured singing, dancing, and lots
of thanks.—Yoni Strugatsky
Jamie sorts through the donations
in her Student Council homeroom.
Council Club Gets
an Earlier Start
This year, Mr. Slavin and his
Council Club have unveiled
their latest achievement in
creating Paul Revere’s very first
council homeroom. This new
“I now have to leave all of my
books in my hall locker so that
my backpack can fit in my P.E.
locker,” complained 7th grader
Angel Ogwo. —Cole Stanton
Layout by Lilly McClure
Claire tries to shove her backpack into her locker before P.E.
Perfect Attendance
Just Got Tastier
Ethan and Nick are welcomed by Leo Politi students while delivering books to their elementary school.
homeroom will not only give the
club extra time to expand their
activities, but will also develop
council leaders who can work
to advance council in their lives
outside of school.
Council Club and P.R.I.D.E.
will be collaborating on charity
efforts to benefit the community
outside of Paul Revere. They
plan on completing the annual
food drive first and then moving
forward from there.
“Council is an awesome way
for teens to meet new people,
make new friends, share experiences, and be themselves!” exclaimed 8th grader and “council
warrior” Josie Winslow.
Most of this homeroom’s
members are also part of the
lunchtime Council Club, which
is always open to new members
and is held in S–3 every Thursday.
“We would really, really like
to encourage 6th and 7th graders
to join!” said Mr. Slavin.
—Julia Monkarsh
The Council Club homeroom warriors meet every day in S–3.
Brand New Year,
Brand New Policies
Justice Gilbert poses a question.
Justice Comes
to Paul Revere
For Patriots this year, there are
a number of new policies to get
used to. Too many tardies, for
example, will land late-comers
straight into detention.
Meanwhile, those who have
been used to keeping their backpacks on the rack in the P.E. area
can no longer do so. Students
now have to fit their backpacks
into their P.E. or hall lockers
or they will be confiscated and
taken to Student Services. Some
clever students now leave their
bags in their teachers’ rooms, but
this is not always possible.
Coming to school on time
has some delicious rewards!
Special breakfasts in Town Hall
are feeding four top-attendance
homerooms every month.
On Fri., Oct. 5th, Ms. Seeger’s
6th grade homeroom, Mr. Foxson’s 7th graders, Ms. Moreno’s
8th graders and Mr. Miyoshi’s
mixed homeroom students all
got to eat some fresh fruit, tasty
donuts, and orange juice to
celebrate their sweet attendance
records. —Alon Levi
Zack grabs a sweet treat while
taking a break from band.
With three pounds of the gavel
the “Roads to Your Future” talk
was in session. On Sept. 19th at
lunch in Town Hall, Patriots lined
up to learn about the law from
Justice Arthur Gilbert. He is the
Presiding Justice of Division 6 of
the California Court of Appeal,
Second District. He started off by
asking students what they should
do in a courtroom. “Respect your
judge,” was one Patriot’s answer.
“Yes, judges need respect,”
Justice Gilbert replied enthusiastically. More students raised their
hands and took turns answering
the judge’s challenging questions
about the law. As lunch drew to
a close, the crowd applauded for
Justice Gilbert and left Town Hall Patriots lined up for the first fire drill of the year on Tues., Sept. 25th.
just in time to get to 5th period.
Mr. Hastings was so impressed with the results that he announced
—Margaret Boelter
everyone would have an extra five mintues of lunch on Sept. 27th.
4 August/September/October 2012
Look out, Patriots, here comes
the new Dean of Discipline, Ms.
Augenstein. Even though some
might think her new job at the
school makes her a threatening authority figure, she wants to reassure
students that she has everyone’s
best interests at heart. “I am responsible for helping
students who are being bullied or
maybe having a hard time getting
along together,” she says. “Also
I make sure that students are following the school safety and dress
code policies.”
Instead of the smaller groups
she used to work with in the classroom, she now works with a large
number of pupils. “Instead of
teaching in academic areas I focus
on student’s behavior and supporting them to make better choices,”
she says. What’s the best part of her
job? “Being able to help students,”
she says.
—Alicia Abramson
THE TOWN CRIER
Position Switch
Ms. Augenstein
Paul Revere Charter Middle School
Mr. Koretz
What are the perks of being the
new Assistant Principal at Paul
Revere? A big office, and getting to
spend time with his new colleague
Ms. Augenstein, according to
Mr. Koretz, the former Dean of
Discipline.
Mr. Koretz was Dean for
three years before deciding to
transfer because he wanted a
new experience with different
responsibilities.
His new job has its drawbacks,
though, he admits. For one thing,
he no longer gets to work with Mr.
Hastings.
“I miss working across the hall
from Mr. Hastings. He was an
amazing source of knowledge and
he always made the day go by
faster with his jokes.”
Overall, Mr. Koretz says his new
job is going swimmingly, even if
he misses his old partner in crime.
—Sophie Krasny
Getting to Know Revere’s New Teachers
Patriots may have noticed a lot
of new faces around campus this
year, including the six new teachers
profiled on this page.
Ms. Moreno
Fashion, food, foreign cultures!
Speaking new languages, exploring the sites of Spain and Italy,
and making her own clothes are
just some of the things Ms. Moreno fits in into her busy life.
One of the new 8th grade English teachers, she has a love for
different languages and cultures.
“When I was at UCLA I decided
Ms. Moreno
Ms. Cronin
into her life. First, she worked as
an international traveling music
teacher for LAUSD Arts Education Branch. As her career thrived,
Ms. Cronin also was a choral Conductor at the Covencent Presbyterian Church, and learned music on
a Doctoral Level.
Ms. Cronin believes “movies
are a complete work of art” that
express morals that are practically indescribable. She also loves
the piano—from Mozart to “Fur
Elise.” —Jojo Levey
Ms. Montez
to complete the last semester in
Spain,” she said. “While in Spain
I traveled to neighboring countries
and discovered how much I loved
the Italian language and culture—
especially the food.” Ms. Moreno also appreciates
the world of fashion. “I love to
make my own clothes. I have
a sewing machine and make
clothes.” —Lilly McClure
Ms. Cronin
Do! Rei! Me! There’s a new
melody coming from Ms. Cronin’s
room. For years, the new choir
teacher has incorporated music
Click! Snap! Flash!
Ms. Montez has come to Revere
to teach world history, traveling
Ms. Montez
from around the world and snapping pictures as she goes.
She incorporates her love of
photography into her teaching.
For example, in the class project
known as the GRAPES project,
her 7th graders could earn extra
credit by taking original photos
of their community’s geography,
religion, achievements, politics,
economics, or social structure.
Her love of travel has inspired her
career. “I decided to teach world
history because I love to travel
and share those experiences with
my students,” she said.
By the end of the year, Ms.
Montez hopes her teaching will
help her students learn to “focus”
on their education and fill their
memory cards with knowledge.
—Alicia Abramson
“I find the story of
human success
and failure to be
compelling and
enabling.”
—Mr. Andereck
Mr. Andereck
This new teacher gets a kick
out of history.
Mr. Andereck is a new 8th
grade history teacher at Revere.
He’s been teaching in LAUSD
since 1987, at both Edison Junior
High School and Manual Arts
High School. He is passionate
about his subject because he loves
storytelling. “I find the story of
human success and failure to be
compelling and enabling,” he said.
Mr. Andereck’s students can
look forward to a year involving
field trips to historical sites and
reenactments of important figures
from history.
years. After her career as a training
consultant, Ms. Zarou moved back
to the U.S. and became a teacher at
Johnnie Cochran Middle School.
Besides teaching, Ms. Zarou loves
the theatre and is very interested in
interior design.—Harrison Larkins
Ms. McDermott
Mr. Andereck
Outside of the classroom, Mr.
Andereck enjoys sports, especially
football, baseball and basketball.
He also collects antiques and
sports memorabilia.
—Claire Suisman
On your mark, get set, go!
On the final lap of the race, here
comes Ms. McDermott swimming her way to Paul Revere, way
ahead of the game. “I spend as
much time as I can in the water,”
said the new English and history teacher. “My other hobby is
Ms. Zarou
“I believe students learn by doing so I barely ever lecture,” says
Revere’s new sixth grade English/
Social Studies teacher. “Instead,
students study the material in pairs
and groups then apply what they
have learned in numerous ways.”
After graduating from Antioch
University with a Masters degree
in clinical psychology, Ms. Zarou
practiced therapy for several
Ms. Zarou
Ms. McDermott
my house which always seems to
‘need’ something.”
Ms. McDermott says she tries
to infuse her teaching with humor
and compassion. She chose sixth
and seventh grade classes because
of her former elementary school
position. “I felt that I would help
them make a smooth transition to
middle school,” she explained.
Having been in her profession for
over 25 years teaching all grades
between preschool and twelfth,
she has a lot of experience working
with young people of all ages. She
hopes to make a splash of success at
Revere. —Claire Spector
August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Paul Revere Charter Middle School 5
The T-shirt on Ms. Stewart (above) tells it all. Sutton Shin (center picture, facing light) solves a problem at math camp. Ms. Del Cambre (above) believes “we shouldn’t sell ourselves short.”
Is This a Problem That Needs Solving?
(continued from page 1) “Since
life is all about problem solving,
this has become a very valuable
tool,” she added. “Does an algebra
teacher believe algebra is necessary? Absolutely!!!”
Ms. Stewart is not the only
Revere algebra teacher who feels
this way. According to Mr. Anderson, “Today the world has radically changed. Algebra has moved
down to seventh and eighth grade,
and it is a requirement for high
school and college graduation,
and for most any job in America
today.”
Although Ms. Stewart defended the necessity of algebra, she
agreed it is not necessarily needed
for three years. “Maybe not all
students should be made to take
three years of high school math if
they have no interest in a math and
science career. However, my question remains, ‘do all middle/high
school students know with great
certainty what their future holds
and what course of direction they
should follow?’ I think not. It is
for this reason that I feel that we
should continue to encourage the
study of mathematics, but not hold
everyone to the same mathematical standard.”
Ms. Del Cambre has a viewpoint similar to that of Ms. Stewart
and Mr. Anderson. “Why sell ourselves short as a nation?” she asks.
“We have already fallen behind so
many other countries in education.
Removing algebra from the mandatory curriculum will just put us
behind even more.” She also argues that kids tend to change their
“Removing algebra
from the mandatory
curriculum will just
put us behind even
more.”—Ms. Del Cambre
dreams for future careers throughout the course of their education.
“The vast majority of middle and
high school students do not know
what they want to do professionally. Even if they think they know
those ideas and interests tend to
change when they get to college
and even after graduation… Instead of looking at the statistics of
how many students aren’t passing,
why not spend time and resourc-
es to understand why they aren’t
passing and fix it?”
Another reason Ms. Del Cambre believes Americans are falling
back on algebra is a lack of observation. “I took algebra in 9th grade
and needed assistance periodically
with it until my mother had a friend
tutor me and look what happened!
That’s probably why I personally
believe that parents may need to
become active overseers of their
child’s education like many of our
wonderful Revere parents.”
Seventh grade math whiz Sutton Shin strongly disagreed with
Andrew Hacker’s New York Times
article. “I am astonished as to the
fact that the article is the word of
a professor… to say that algebra
is not required is to inhibit any
higher mathematics education and
technological progress.”
Sutton also claims that kids use
algebra all the time, even if they
don’t know it. “When kids make a
purchase, they calculate the price
per unit and make the more sensible choice. When playing video
games, they subconsciously analyze the movement of their character and decide which move is
better.”
Whether or not algebra should
be taught in schools is a hot topic,
and if there are enough people
who believe it should not be, there
could be some major changes in
America’s school system.
If it’s true that one-fourth of
American 9th graders are failing
high school because of algebra, is
it really necessary to be taught in
the classroom?
Photos and layout by
Spencer Howard and Hunter Loncar
“Superstar! Superstar!” Patriots showing great character, academics and citizenship are recognized by their teachers with “Superstar” cards that go into a drawing two times a week. At the
end of the month, all the cards go back into the barrel and two big winners are chosen. In September, Benji Jacobs (center left) won a video camera and Lily Koenig (center right) won an iPod.
6 August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Paul Revere Charter Middle School
August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Paul Revere Charter Middle School 7
Photo collages by
Hunter Loncar and
Spencer Howard
Sixth graders in Mr. Carnine’s social studies class show off their needlepoint versions of Chinese symbols. From left to right are Michiko, Dean, Nicholas, Sara and Jonathan.
Ms. Asahina’s seventh grade scientists use microscopes to learn more about life science during a lab in S-2. Students show off their illustrations of what they see through the lenses.
Trojan fans Mr. Hernandez and Ms. Kobashi, Bruin fans Mr. Honda and Mr. Iannucci, CSU East Bay fan Mr. Shibata, and ASU fan Ms.Walker show their spirit on College Mondays.
8 August/September/October 2012
Paul Revere Charter Middle School
Performers Prepare for Upcoming Shows
By EMI AREVALO
The holidays arrive here early
this year, because here come the
Winter Concerts. From Dec. 11th
to 13th, Patriots in band, orchestra
and choir will perform for family
and friends in a series of concerts
that will display their skills and
talents. The concerts will be taking place at 7:00 p.m. in the school
auditorium, and they are free and
open to the public. Ms. Cronin has already set
the agenda for her performances.
“The winter concert will begin
with all 235 singers in the opening
song, ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’
followed by a hand chime processional,” she explained. “The
concert will conclude with a traditional ‘Hallelujah’ chorus by G. F.
Handel, when we invite all Revere
choir alumni to join us on stage
Choir members (left) rehearse while Jake (middle) takes a break from playing his tuba. Cast members of “FNL” (right) practice a sketch.
(so let’s get the word out to Pali
High!) Then all 235 singers will
again surround the audience for a
special closing song.”
Ms. Jacques predicts that all
of these preparations and performances will pay off in the end.
“These students will have many
options later in life when they
master reading music and playing
an instrument,” she said.
However, these winter concerts are not the only entertainment oppurtunities to look forward
to this year. The new PEP class
“Friday Night Live” (or FNL) is
taking the stage during rehearsals on Mondays and Wednesdays
after school. Participants study
the basics of sketch comedy, improvisation, and get the chance
to develop scenes, write sketches
and more, under the instruction of
Matthew Cassaro.
As a culminating event, the
students will premiere this year’s
FNL on the evening of Fri., Nov.
16th in the auditorium.
S U M M E R E N T E R TA I N M E N T W R A P - U P
Gangnam Style
By PSY
A Even though very few people can understand what it really
means, the ever popular “Gangnam Style” is topping the charts.
Sung by Korean rapper PSY, the
music video has been viewed over
345 million times on Youtube,
making it one of the most loved
videos ever. Its catchy chorus and
funny lyrics are what make it so
unique. It’s like nothing we’ve
seen before in the U.S. and that’s
why people are going so insane
over it. However, although hearing it once is entertaining, listening to it over and over again can
get really annoying. So what’s the
big craze over “Gangnam Style?”
Maybe it’s the horseback riding
dance that goes along with the
song. Grabbing the horse by its
reins and lassoing is the new thing,
even in P.E. Only being out for a
few months now, the K-Pop song
has broken records, and earned
the love of many fans all over the
world.
–Bettina Papageorge
Live While We’re
Young
By One Direction
A Gaining millions of fans with
their first single, “What Makes
You Beautiful,” One Direction
has become a popular name with
teenage girls. One Direction
recently released their newest
single, “Live While We’re
Young.” The song is different than
1D’s typical ballads, leaning more
towards The Wanted’s party and
dance music, but also having the
same serenading boy band touch;
the song gets stuck in your head—
easily. Directioners would call it
“amazayn” while some would call
it just another annoying boy band
song. Within minutes of being
released in the US, it topped the
iTunes charts, and stayed there for
a day until Taylor Swift came out
with her new song, “Red.” One
Direction has continued pleasing
their fans with a song and video
about five guys having fun living
while they’re young.
—Lilly McClure
The Dark Knight Rises
Directed by Christopher Nolan
A
Christopher Nolan’s epic saga,
The Batman, vanished into the
night on July 16, 2012, The Dark
Knight Rises ended one of the biggest superhero series’ of all time,
with a stellar cast, starring Christian Bale, Gary Oldman, Tom
Hardy, Ann Hathaway, Joseph
Gordon-Levitt, and Morgan Freeman. With a Hans Zimmer penned
score, creating the “ultimate” Batman soundtrack. Tom Hardy, playing Bane, wore a mask, obscuring
most of his face, making it harder
to understand his and power and
his emotion; as well as the effect
over the voice, making it harder
to hear him—these were the only
flaws with this movie. While most
movies today glorify violence, The
Dark Knight Rises told about today’s class warfare and corruption.
The final Batman movie closed
this series with a boom, making
everyone wonder, will there be a
follow up—a Robin movie?
—Sam Harrison
Trouble With the
Curve
Directed by Robert Lorenz
A
This very well made film by
Robert Lorenz, Trouble with the
Curve, was one of Clint Eastwood’s finest acting jobs. He portrays an old baseball scout who
is on the verge of losing his job,
but is also fighting off the dangers
of old age. During the film, his
daughter (played by Amy Adams),
a hard working business lady,
comes to live with him because
she is worried about his health,
but ever since her mother tragically died, their relationship has
never been the same. After all of
her years living with a scout, she
has picked up a few new tricks
so she joins him for a few scouting games and they are rejoined
as a family. This movie portrays
a fantastic theme of life, which is
a father estranged from his child.
Overall, even though Trouble With
the Curve did not make what it expected, it was a very sensational
and exciting film. —Cole Stanton
Perks of Being a
Wallflower
Directed by Stephen Chbosky
A
From Summit entertainment
and genius director and author
Stephen Chbosky, comes the
newest tearjerker about a scarred
new kid and his unusual misfit
friends trying to survive the
uncertain years of high school.
Chbosky offers movie goers
incredible and touching surprises,
plus his own original vision that
he created in his best-selling novel
which the film is based on. With
well-known actors such as Logan
Lerman playing the vulnerable
freshman with a tough past, the
beloved Emma Watson as the
understanding but mysterious love
interest, plus newbie Ezra Miller
as the unique best friend, the film
provides phenomenal acting and
interesting relationships between
characters. In the end the movie
comes to a beautiful resolution
that is sure to make everyone in
the theater teary eyed and awe
struck.
—Julia Monkarsh
August/September/October 2012
Paul Revere Charter Middle School 9
THE TOWN CRIER
This is the story of TAYLOR SWIFT’s sudden burst
back to popularity, and all that you need are two new
albums, three new singles (one song being for a cancer
benefit), a new boyfriend, and, of course, six Grammys to
seal the deal. Her first comeback single in the set of three
was ‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’, which
topped records all over the internet by becoming the fastest-selling digital single ever for a song by a woman on
the Billboard 100 online. Taylor was also named 2011’s
Woman of the Year in the Billboard Awards. Keep it going, T-Swizzle, and let those sparks fly. —Sophie Krasny
It’s time to ‘suit up’ and get ready, because NEIL PATRICK HARRIS is “LEGEN…wait for it…” That famous
catchphrase comes from the illustrious ladies’ man Barney
Stinson, the character Neil Patrick Harris portrays on
the TV sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’, a role he has
become wildly popular for. Neil Patrick Harris (also a professional magician), performs his typically mischievous
characters on many stages, including his first TV show
‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’, and his movie “Dr. Horrible’s
Sing-Along Blog’, along with hosting both the Emmy’s
and the Tony Awards. “...DARY!” —Sophie Krasny
The X-FACTOR has been going downhill ever since
the opening of the new season about a month ago. With
new judges Demi Lovato and Britney Spears distracting
the audience, no one is paying attention to the performers on the stage. Both of the stars let the performers
down too easily, not giving any advice or suggestions,
just so that the celebs themselves can maintain their own
‘nice girl’ reputations. There is no energy or thought in
their lackluster comments, and it’s dragging the entire
show down. Viewers are realizing that maybe the judges
themselves are losing the X-Factor. — Hannah Shabtian
They don’t have that boom boom boom anymore. A few
years ago, everybody was listening to the THE BLACK
EYED PEAS; when you turned on the radio you would
hear their most recent hit, and everyone would be humming their songs as they walked through the hallways.
The Black Eyed Peas were topping the charts in 2008
and 2009, but since then they haven’t released anything new. In my own opinion, their songs have always
sounded less like music, and more like a robot having a
violent seizure. I’ve got a feeling that the Black Eyed
Peas have lost their popularity forever. —Claire Suisman
It’s okay to be sick and tired of TWITTER. Even though
Twitter has about 500 million accounts, lately tweeters have been flying off of the little birdie, and ditching
their accounts. It was created to let the world (or just
your friends) know what you’re doing 24/7, but there’s
a problem: First of all, who cares? You don’t have to tell
people where you are or what you’re doing all the time.
This can at times be unsafe for some people; especially
if you give your location. Though you can delete your
previous tweets, everyone can still see them until they
are gone. #noonecaresanymore —Hannah Shabtian
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, is KRISTEN STEWART
the fairest of them all?” Definitely not. The actress
known for showing no emotion has finally met her end.
I guess the immortal really don’t live forever. After starring in the Twilight series as Bella Swan, Stewart went
on to be Snow White in Snow White and the Huntsman.
Her performance in Twilight was shaky at best, and
many question her acting ability. Maybe she was popular
when she first appeared in the film business, but since
then, her lack of expression and detached acting has led
her “On The Road” of failure. — Alicia Abramson
If you’ve been hearing yelling and shrieking all over Pittsburgh, it’s those crazy DANCE MOMS going at it again!
Miss Abby Lee Miller is the owner of Abby Lee Dance
Company (ALDC), and she is merciless with her pupils.
When a student completes a magnificent turn, does a fantastic pirouette, or has a perfect routine, Miss Abby Lee
has absolutely no intention of treating her with respect.
This dance company travels around the U.S. battling other
companies for national titles and trophies. These aren’t
just regular women whose children dance for fun. Their
world is with their girls on the dance floor. —Jojo Levey
A ridiculous picture of your friend dressed up in a dinosaur costume pops up on your iPhone screen, and you
start laughing. 3...2...1...whoosh! The picture vanishes as
quickly as it appeared. SNAPCHAT is a popular app that
lets you send messages via pictures. You can add a caption, draw on your picture, and choose how long you want
your friend to see it for. What makes Snapchat so unique
is that you can only view the photo for up to 10 seconds,
and then BAM! It’s gone. If you’re tired of texting,
download Snapchat to share hilarious moments with your
friends in a new and exciting way. —Claire Suisman
Stars on the Streets
By HANNAH SHABTIAN
Anyone living in L.A. has a
good chance of running into a celebrity at all sorts of spots all over
town. For example, three 8th graders “rubbed elbows” with members
of One Direction, the world famous
boy band that “lights up your world
like nobody else.” The three girls
were waiting outside the W Hotel in
Westwood for a chance to meet their
favorite singers face to face.
“Meeting One Direction was
unbelievable,” said Celine Nassir. “I
couldn’t believe I was meeting my
idols. I was shaking when I went
up to them for a picture. They were
so sweet and their British and Irish
accents were adorable!”
Tiana Torkan recalled how “it
was really nerve-racking watching
them come down the stairs of their
hotel, but after I went up to Louis, and
took a picture with him, I couldn’t
be happier. That was until I realized
that MTV filmed the whole thing! It
was the best day of my life.”
Sanam Kamran added, “I
couldn’t believe that it really had
happened until we saw our pictures
all over the Internet, and our feeds
were blowing up with questions and
hundreds of new followers in a matter of minutes. I never thought that
this day would ever happen.”
Meanwhile, 7th grader Joben
Santos was living it “Big time”
standing with Big Time Rush’s onscreen producer, Gustavo Rock,
played by Stephen Kramer Glickman.
“It was really cool meeting him,”
said Joben. “He was really chill.”
Anna Constantino walked the
catwalk while hanging out with
“Ms. J” Alexander, the famous
African-American male model. “It
was really nice to meet him,” said
Anna. “He was so funny and fun to
be around.”
On the final lap, 7th grader
Olivia Welch skated her way to
meet Olympic Gold Medalist Apolo
Ohno. “It was really cool to meet
him,” said Olivia. “Actually at the
time, we were doing an Olympic
project having to do with a gold
medalist a my friend chose him to
write about. He said that he felt very
honored.”
Charli Barcena met “the lady
in charge”— First Lady Michelle
Obama. “The experience
was just so amazing and exciting,”
said the 7th grader. “She was so
sweet and nice.”
Bettina Papageorge met the
lead singer of Maroon 5, Adam
Levine. “I was really nervous, but
once I met him, I realized how
cool he was, and I wasn’t scared
anymore,” said Bettina. “He was
also very tall and good-looking! It
was all so surreal.”
These Patriots have learned
that if they keep their eyes open,
the stars they see will not only be
in the sky, but also on the streets.
Photo collage by Harrison Gelber
Harry and
Celene
Sanam
and
Zayn
Anna and
Ms. J
Adam
and
Bettina
Joben and
Stephen
Olivia and Apolo
Michelle
and
Charli
10 August/September/October 2012
Paul Revere Charter Middle School
Frisbee: The Ultimate Team Sport
By SHANNON LEE
You feel the hard, plastic frisbee glide into your hand as
you receive the soaring disc from a teammate. Challenged
by opponents, you look up and send it airborne with another
accurate flick of the wrist. You try to connect one pass after another, as you fight and struggle for possession in this
action-packed game of ultimate frisbee.
This year, PEP has decided to bring this adventurous sport
to the Patriot playing field with coaching from Ms. Istrin.
This pro has competed in ultimate frisbee since her freshman
year in college, when she decided to try a new sport after her
experience with competitive soccer. She played all four years
of undergrad school at the University of Arizona, and continued in a city league once she moved to LA. She left the game
for five years, but is now back with the Los Angeles Women’s
travel team, “Viva.”
What does she enjoy about ultimate frisbee? Ms. Istrin
exclaims, “Having played almost every popular sport, I truly
believe this is the best one. This is the most athletic sport I
could have ever imagined. It attracts people from soccer, volleyball, basketball, and football because it covers so many
different skills and is way more fun!”
During the frisbee clinics, Ms. Istrin will start with basic types of throws (backhand, forehand flick, hammer) rules
of the game, and strategy drills for offensive and defensive
plays. The classes will help students to develop the skills
required to play on a team level and learn tactics to trick
opponents.
“I know that any student who comes out to play will have
the best time, become obsessed with the sport, and impress
anyone with their amazing throws and disc skills,” promises
Ms. Istrin.
“I can’t wait to bring my coaching skills and experience
to Revere students! It’s going to be epic!”
Pictured (left): A Revere teacher and professional member
on LA Women’s travel team “Viva,” Ms. Istrin demonstrates
a variety of skills—including throwing and catching—on
the field during her intense matches of Ultimate Frisbee.
Students in Mr. Foxson’s P.E. classes play Tate Ball, a game similar to soccer in which players pass, throw and score goals by using their hands and other body parts instead of feet.
August/September/October 2012
THE TOWN CRIER
Bump
and Run
By ANGEL OGWO
Benji
Home
Run
Among the star athletes of
Paul Revere is 8th grader Terrell
Cox, member of the L.A. Demos
football team. While Terrell was
playing football one day, he was
discovered by a coach at his old
school. The coach asked him,
“How would you like to play football for the L.A. Demos?”
“Oh, boy, would I! When do I
start!” he replied. The coach told
him he could start the next day.
Terrell’s mother pulled the old
ball-and-chain and wanted him
not to go, as football is dangerous,
but with a little begging and puppy
eyes, she changed her mind.
By ALON LEVI
“Out!” That’s another ball 7th
grade catcher Benjamin (Benji)
Taylor caught. During his nineyear baseball career, he pitched his
way from a local park to regional championships. One of these
tournaments includes the Field of
Dreams, where Benji competed in
both Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
“Every time I step on the field
I have a feeling of excitement because there is no place I’d rather
be than on a baseball field,” states
Benji.
Benjamin also played as an allstar in the West LA Little League
and won the District 25 championship.
Baseball might be a challenging
sport, but according to Benji, that
makes it all the better to play.
Benji
Terrell
When he started playing football as a fullback and a defensive
end, his team immediately took to
him. Their coach put them through
a rigorous workout of push-ups,
sit-ups, and runs, to prepare them
to face a team called the “Beach
Browns.” Terrell was excited for
this game, because he thought if
he put a little extra hard work into
it, he could earn the almighty gold
medal and a killer trophy. Once
practice was over, he went home
to continue training. He lifted
weights, skipped rope, did pushups, sit-ups, jogged, and went to
bed after a long, eventful day.
The following day Terrell
woke up happy as can be, because
it would be the day that he would
face the Beach Browns. As he and
his team got out onto the field, they
were terrified to find out that their
opponents were huge. They were
muscular and Terrell’s teammates
sensed that they were going to be
obliterated within an instant.
Apparently the only person
that wasn’t scared was Terrell Cox.
Before the game was finished Terrell scored six touchdowns and the
other team scored only two. After
the game, the coach gave Terrell
his gold medal and a trophy because of his hard work.
Ever since then, Terrell Cox
has worked even harder on his
game. His advice to everyone with
a dream: “Never give up!”
Soccer
Scores
Again
By PETER JEBSEN
The hot sun beat down on Molly Jebsen and Sara Kangaslahti but
that was the least of their worries
as the other team raced down the
field aiming to shoot the winning
goal.
Molly and Sara are both part
of an all girls “extra” soccer team.
An extra team is a tryout team that
has practices twice a week and
tournaments on the weekend. The
tournaments can last for hours and
the girls are expected to play at
least three quarters each game. At
these competitions, the team plays
against opponents who are a full
two years older than them!
Sara feels that the hardest part
about soccer is the practicing in
the hot sun, while Molly disagrees.
She says, “Honestly, the hardest
part is doing the right thing so our
coach won’t kick us off the team.”
Soccer may be tough sport but
they both enjoy it, and they hope
that someday they will both play
professionally.
Paul Revere Charter Middle School 11
Living
on the
Edge
By EMI AREVALO
Sweat pours down Eighth grader Margaret Boelter’s face as she
clings onto the rock beneath her.
One wrong step could send her
plunging to the ground, and to the
ER. One thought goes through her
head as she hangs on: don’t look
down.
Margaret Boelter, also known
as Maggie, is an expert rock climber. Last year in late September, she
began rock climbing and is now on
a noncompetitive team along with
about 20 other teenage rock climbers. She regularly climbs at Rockreation, an indoor gym. On the
team she receives instruction and
has learned how to use her harness, chalk bag, climbing shoes,
and rope while climbing.
Rock climbing is exactly as
the name states: climbing rocks,
but Maggie might have a more
descriptive explanation in mind.
“Rock climbing is either class 5 or
class 4 climbing. Class 5 is when
Maggie
Molly
Sara
Rayne
you could be fatally injured if you
fall, which is why you wear a harness. Class 4 is called bouldering
which isn’t as bad to fall from, because you aren’t very high off the
ground.” Maggie usually climbs
class 5.
“Whenever I finish a hard climb,
I feel relieved and proud that I finished it,” she commented thoughtfully. In terms of climbing, climbs
are classified using decimals. For
example, a level climbed at birthday parties would be a 5.5-5.7; not
to hard to climb.
The hardest climb Maggie has
ever attempted was a moderately
hard 5.10d She hopes to attempt
a 5.11a, a more difficult climb,
someday soon.
Kicking
Into
Action
By ALON LEVI
After five years of working on
his mixed martial arts, 12-year-old
Rayne Camden came home with a
brown belt around his waist.
“I train at Max Impact four to
five days per week to improve my
skills and become a leader in my
community,” said Rayne, who is
now 13. “The workouts are hard
but are worth it because I’m constantly improving in my skills and
confidence.” Mixed martial arts includes many
techniques, but Rayne mainly focuses on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and
kickboxing. According to Rayne,
all of his training has helped him
get into excellent physical condition and has given him a lot of
confidence when playing other
sports. Although this helps him
stay in tip-top shape, the trainer
and owner of Max Impact, Mr.
G, strongly emphasizes “that our
most powerful weapon is not our
fists, but instead is our brain…”
By the end of 7th grade Rayne
Camden plans to have his final
black belt, so people might not
want to mess with this student
sports star.
Rayne
12 August/September/October 2012
Paul Revere Charter Middle School