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Warrior Friends Grows Friendships at AHS

December 13, 2024

By Diya Manikandan
STAFF WRITER

Warrior Friends is a completely student-run organization, aside from occasional assistance from gym teacher and advisor, William Beauchesne. Its members work towards helping neurotypical and neurodivergent groups form connections. The leadership committee meets weekly to decide activities and plans for the next club meeting. So far, Warrior Friends members have introduced themselves and gotten to know each other, played games, colored, and most recently, had a kickball tournament.

According to a Harvard Health article on neurodiversity, the word “neurodiverse” refers to “the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as other neurological or developmental conditions” (Baumer).

Club president Jordan Shirley said, “I hope to normalize differences between people. I feel like people see certain individuals in the hallways and call them weird, but they are as normal as everyone else.”

“The thing that I’ve noticed the most is the diversity of the population of students at school,” said Beauschesne. “Seeing some students be able to make friendships with certain other groups of students has been very gratifying in terms of developing friendships.”

Members of the Warrior Friends appreciate opportunities to meet new friends and make the neurodiverse community feel welcome. “[Warrior Friends] is a really cool experience to help people and make new connections,” said sophomore Samantha Cashman.

Even from the few meetings held so far, familiarity is already forming between club members. “The biggest growth I’ve seen, as the weeks have gone by, is that just by meeting once a week, friendships are starting to establish and grow,” Beauchesne said. “This isn’t just in H Block; I’ve noticed this in the cafeteria, and in class, so people are now more connected with the neurodiverse community and they’re able to recognize them and include them in more.”

Senior club member Christina Preston encourages students to join the club. “It’s an amazing opportunity to build relationships and make these amazing kids feel seen and loved, and make them feel like a part of the school community,” she said.

Follow Warrior Friends at @warrior_friends_forever to get a glimpse of the club’s activities and see how you can join!

Articles Community

Lights, Camera, Andover!

December 13, 2024

By Kaveri Dole and Arshiaa Prem
STAFF WRITERS

In the sleepy town of Andover, where the pace of life is typically slow and uneventful, a recent event caused waves of excitement: the visit of international superstar Zendaya. The acclaimed actress, known for her roles in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Dune, and the hit series Euphoria, made a surprise appearance at Phillips Academy as part of a film called The Drama being produced by A24, the independent film company behind titles like Everything Everywhere All at Once and The Iron Claw. This visit left students and faculty in awe and highlighted Andover’s growing role in the film industry.

For many in Andover, the news of Zendaya’s presence was surreal. For AHS sophomore Pamela Chamnankit, the excitement began when she received a text from her sister in the middle of math class. What followed was a flurry of delirium as rumors spread like wildfire. By the end of the school day, it seemed that the majority of the student body at AHS was abuzz with anticipation. “It was so unexpected,” Chamnankit recalled. “People started talking about it, and by the time the day ended, I had to see her for myself.”

As soon as school let out, she and her sister dashed off to the Addison Gallery of American Art at Phillips Academy where the filming took place. After what seemed like a decade, but in reality, it was just over an hour, the moment had arrived. “I saw her walk out that door and I was like, ‘Oh my God, that’s actually Zendaya’,” Chamnankit said. “Nothing really happens here, it’s boring,” she added, in shock that Andover attracted such big celebrities. “I was so happy I was about to cry, I was shaking and was so nervous,” she said, remembering how she was screaming with the crowd.

The emotional reactions of students who witnessed Zendaya’s visit did vary. Phillips Academy freshman Kaylee Xie, who rearranged her class schedule to catch a glimpse of the star, described her experience as somewhat underwhelming. “It was kind of difficult to see because people were pushing, but it was still fun,” she said.

While she admitted that the experience didn’t meet her expectations, Xie acknowledged the importance of being part of something so unique. “It was worth it because I actually got to see her. If I hadn’t, it wouldn’t have been worth waiting all that time.”

She also said, “Some teachers changed their class plans so either their class could go see Zendaya or their class plan had to do with Zendaya.” It may be surprising that even teachers would disrupt their class for this, but Xie said, “Teachers had to do something about it because the students were getting too excited.”

For AHS senior Dhwani Nair, Zendaya’s visit was a reminder of the power of pursuing one’s dreams. Growing up watching Zendaya on television, Nair expressed her excitement and awe upon seeing her in person. “It’s cool to see someone I always saw on TV in real life,” she said. “It reminds me of my goal to be a director and pursue a career in film.”

Nair shared Chamnankit’s shock at the fact that such a big celebrity was coming to Andover; however, she was more shocked that the Addison Art Gallery was so well known. Contrary to Chamnankit’s opinion, she believes that “Andover has a lot to offer when it comes to filming for movies, [the town has] a diverse range of places to film.”

Phillips Academy is no stranger to the spotlight. The prestigious school has long been a sought-after location for filming, with its scenic beauty and historic campus providing the perfect backdrop for Hollywood productions. The 2010 film The Social Network with Andrew Garfield, which recounted the founding of Facebook, shot scenes on campus, as did The Invention of Lying (2009). Madame Web (2024), starring Sydney Sweeny and Dakota Johnson, was also filmed in Andover.

Tracy Sweet, the head of communications at Phillips Academy, said Zendaya’s visit to PA displays a growing trend: Andover’s increasing importance as a filming location.

Sweet confirmed that A24’s scouting team contacted the school as early as last summer to discuss filming possibilities. The students and faculty were excited about the filming process but also embraced the opportunity to witness a live production in action. “There was a lot of excitement on campus,” Sweet recalled, “and when the crew returned for a final day of filming, they made sure to have designated areas for students to gather and watch.”

While filming on the PA campus doesn’t generate revenue for the school, Sweet noted that the film company covered all associated costs. The experience, she explained, brings positive energy and visibility to the academy and the town.

Zendaya’s visit may have been a once-in-a-lifetime event for many, but it marks the beginning of Andover’s role in the larger film community. For the students and residents who witnessed her visit, it was a reminder that even the quietest of towns can hold big surprises and opportunities for those looking to make their mark in the world of film.

Articles

Digital Learning Requirement Changed for Class of 2028

December 13, 2024

By Christina Saad
STAFF WRITER

In past years, the requirement for Digital Learning was grouped with Fine Arts as a 1.5 credit graduation requirement. This meant if someone took all art courses, they wouldn’t have to take any digital learning courses. The School Committee decided last year that it would be better to have these classes separated from then on so that students could experiment in both departments.

“We want kids to be exposed to the arts,” Shereen Rancourt, the Executive Director of Secondary Instruction said, “and also be exposed to things like business and computer design, so that’s why it’s different for the Class of 2028 and beyond.”

In the Andover High School Program of Studies, courses grouped under Digital Learning consist of Business, Web and Game Design, Film and Video Production, Broadcast Journalism, and the recently added AP Economics class. However, some Digital Learning classes are grouped under multiple departments, so they may be found elsewhere. For example, Computer Science classes count as a Math credit or a Digital Learning credit.

CORRESPONDENT PHOTO / Ethan Nguyen
The Computer Science room.

“If you need it for one or the other, you kind of use it where you need it,” Rancourt said.

Although for some students taking the courses may just mean fulfilling a requirement, program coordinators and teachers emphasized its importance beyond high school.

“The decision… also came from some of our program coordinators who were interested in giving more options to students,” Assistant Superintendent Julie Riley said, “[to] test out things they were interested in before… applying to colleges, so people have more of an understanding of what they may want to go into.”

Marianne Bezaire, a technology teacher, explained how Digital Learning is an important life skill to have in this world.

“Just like communication in general in math, I think digital literacy is important…,” Bezaire stated, “Not everyone needs to necessarily be learning the intricacies of Java… but I think it’s great if they can understand some of the concepts of logic and design.”

Articles Sports

Swim captain reflects on value of sports as final season approaches

December 13, 2024

By Avery Slaughter
STAFF WRITER

Luke Suh, a senior at Andover High School, is entering his final year on the boy’s swim team as a newly-appointed captain.

While he won’t be continuing to swim competitively in college, the sport has played a vital role in his relationships and identity as a person.

Though he had been swimming competitively since first grade, joining the school’s team in his freshman year was a big adjustment. The focus on community was very different from what he was used to on his various club teams, but the change was an overall positive one. While club swim had a more individualistic approach with an emphasis on personal skills and abilities, the AHS team focused on how they made each other better.

“On the high school team, I definitely feel like I’m doing something more than just for myself,” Suh said.

The emphasis on being a cohesive team assisted Suh in finding many friends at AHS through swimming. This was especially true when he was an underclassman. The shift up to high school was made significantly easier by his position on the team.

In addition to gaining a sense of community, competitive swimming has also helped him build character and leadership skills. As someone new to AHS, the sport assisted him in finding his place in the school. Alternatively, as a sophomore and junior, it allowed him to develop perseverance and discipline in an environment removed from academics. As a captain, that responsibility will be emphasized, but he plans to meet the new challenge head-on.

“I’m supposed to be a good example and all that does definitely build character,” Suh said.

Like many of the sports at AHS, the boy’s swim team is a large commitment. During the season, they meet every weekday for around an hour and frequently meet on weekends as well. Despite the long hours on the weekdays and the occasional meetings during Winter Break, Suh has kept a firmly optimistic attitude regarding the crowded schedule.

Suh said a student should do clubs and sports because they enjoy them, not because they feel obligated to do them. In addition to swimming, Suh also participates in DECA and the Quiz Team. Because of these three activities, he doesn’t have a surplus of free time. His mindset has helped him balance all of his responsibilities.

“It’s a commitment that you make,” Suh said, “and so I just tell myself that I’ve decided to do this, and I’m going to do my best with whatever I’m assigned to do.”

While he still loves swimming, Suh won’t be continuing his competitive career in college. Regardless, he will continue to swim as a recreational activity. It helps him maintain his physical health, but, more importantly, there is another major benefit he gains from it.

“I’m doing [swim] because I enjoy it,” Suh said. “So I don’t care how much time I have to spend or how much sleep I lose. I don’t care. It’s just about doing well.”

Articles Community Events Sports

How Much Pep Could a Pep Rally Rally, If A Pep Rally Could Rally Pep

December 13, 2024

By Jillian Slotnick
SPORTS EDITOR

Student Government and the Jungle organized the celebration, which consisted of pie-eating contests, tug-of-war, and team competitions. This year, students took a major role in planning, as opposed to last year’s rally, which was mainly coordinated by Interim Principal Betty Taylor. The rally was attended by the entire school and had participation from students, teachers, and even Principal Jimmy D’Andrea.

The pep rally is a tangible example of all the work student organizations, such as Student Government and the Jungle, do. Senior Salma Ali, a member of Student Government and one of the main pep rally organizers, said, “We want to get more people excited. A lot of people want to skip the last day or skip the pep rally, so we want to get people more excited, which is why we’re having the Jungle leaders as MCs. [Hopefully] they’ll get people hyped and push them to get involved and be a part of it for the next [few] years.”

Student participation is the heart of any successful pep rally, and at AHS, the energy students bring is unmatched. From chanting school cheers to yelling for their friends, the enthusiasm from the students sets the tone for the event. This year, a number of fall sports, from girl’s swimming and diving to golf, participated in the pep rally. The event planners hoped that competing in events like tug-of-war will serve as bonding experiences and demonstrate team unity.

Unlike in past pep rallies, there was no teacher dance or speech from football coach Ernest Perry. Additional activities are the balloon relay, band performances, and Jungle Leaders also acting as MCs. These changes will hopefully allow for greater student engagement.

STAFF PHOTO/ Jillian Slotnick
Students collide during relay game.

The planning and care put into the pep rally is obvious, and reflected by the palpable excitement shown by the students during the event. Connor Acheson, a captain of the football team, said, “I love [the pep rally]. I think we should have more [of them]. I think the team and everybody in the school get super excited, and it’s a lot of fun: super high energy. And it definitely helps before the big game.”

Perry expressed a similar opinion. “The school really likes it and the players seem to like it [as well],” he said. ”Everybody’s really into it. The energy is great, especially so close to the game. I think it really gets us into that mindset of the Thanksgiving [game] and needing to give it our all because it’s the last time we’ll step on that field this season.”

According to Ali, the annual pep rally does not only increase excitement for the Thanksgiving Day football game, but also elevates overall school pride. By bringing the whole community together, it forms a stronger bond between AHS students. Even administrators have noticed the positive change pep rallies and the presence of the Jungle has on school spirit.

Athletic Director Wayne Puglisi said, “I think that the Jungle has had some great turnouts for our home football games. They’re very supportive of other sports [as well,] which is great to see since that’s not been the case in the past. I feel like school spirit is slowly coming back [after COVID and our changing leadership]. Just the way that students act in the Jungle, how they cheer, and what they do for the different teams and different programs; it’s pretty cool.”

Articles Community Editorial Faculty Trending

The Empowering Role that Principals Play

November 13, 2024

We are all in different places in our educational careers. Some of us are just starting high school, while others are getting ready to move on to college. But as we walk different paths forward, we have one thing that unites us; one thing that makes us all smile in the mornings, a constant presence in our lives. In the crowded hallways of AHS, we all can stand on common ground: our love of our new principal, Jimmy D’Andrea.

We believe he is the key to raising school spirit and community at AHS. This year will be filled with a continuation of the joy that Jimmy has brought so far, and we can’t wait to see it. His enthusiasm is infectious, as we see him show up game after game and concert after concert, Every morning when we hear Jimmy’s bright voice over the loudspeaker, when he shows up time and again to sports events, concerts, and club meetings, his love for AHS is clear. He has demonstrated true care and commitment to the student body, even in his admittedly short term, and we love him for it.

Jimmy’s legacy at AHS has just begun, and we can’t wait to see him continue to build the school community.

Articles Community Education Faculty Trending

To Stand or Not to Stand?

November 13, 2024

Staff, Students Debate Pledge of Allegiance requirements

Avery Slaughter and Christina Saad

STAFF WRITERS

At 8:15 A.M., Ralph Bledsoe proudly stood with his hand over his heart as he recited the Pledge of Allegiance in time with the voice over the loudspeakers. The students, standing in rows at their desks, quietly listened while blinking sleep out of their eyes. To an outside observer, it seemed like nobody thought twice about the daily announcement.

At the same time, in Jeffrey Kuchan’s first period class, the band director watched the flag in the corner of the band room as the present students milled about. Some stood; some recited the Pledge in a muted mutter; some sat silently. It didn’t matter to him so long as they showed respect for the morning ritual.

It’s an elementary part of every student and staff member’s day, but the Pledge of Allegiance enthusiastically echoes through the school every morning. Some people don’t think twice about it; some regard it with irritation; some consider it greatly important. After years of the same routine, though, some staff and students in the building have begun questioning whether standing for the Pledge is something students should be required to do.

Currently, there are no federal laws requiring public school students to stand or recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Whether or not public schools must say it — and, furthermore, when the students must say it — is decided by the state, and it differs across the country. In Massachusetts, the Pledge must be said first thing in the morning or at the beginning of the school day. Private schools are not held to these standards and may decide by themselves whether or not they recite it.

Because public schools are government institutions, the legality around the Pledge is strict.

When he said the Pledge of Allegiance that morning, AHS Principal Jimmy D’Andrea, channeled his usual cheer, though it wasn’t a particularly notable part of his day. He was enthusiastic about the recitation just as he was every morning — inspiring a bit of joy at the beginning of the day could only be beneficial, after all. He didn’t mind whether or not people stood, nor had he ever, but he recognized the Pledge’s historical significance in the country. Despite the differing regulations across each school he’d worked in, it was a staple in all of them. He would say the Pledge with a smile each morning.

“Public schools were created many years ago for the public good by government agencies,” D’Andrea said, “and so as a result, most of these laws go back well over a hundred years. In this day and age, I don’t know if the same kind of laws would be created, but most [them] have been in the books for a very long period of time.”

While opinions on whether or not students should be required to stand are greatly conflicting, the general consensus seems to be that students should have a choice. Whether or not they should choose to do it out of respect is highly debated, though.

“I think it can’t be a requirement,” Bledsoe said, “but out of respect for the place you live, the people you live with, for the country you live in, out of respect, at least stand.”

Robert Michaud, a history teacher, agreed that you should have the choice but believed the decision was up to personal beliefs. “You’re going to be valued and respected here, as long as you’re not trampling on other people’s values that they have in this situation,” Michaud said.

Some people disagree entirely. Fred Hopkins, a history teacher, suggested that saying the Pledge could possibly promote violence in the country.

“Pledging allegiance is a very serious activity, and what the flag stands for and what it aspires to be are two different things,” Hopkins said, “so when you pledge allegiance, are you supporting all the violence that’s been done by this country and its military, or are you supporting a system of equality and justice, here and abroad, or are you supporting the ideals of freedom and liberty?”

For Kuchan, who taught in a school in Virginia where the Pledge of Allegiance is regarded as extremely important, the Pledge is something to be respected but not enforced. Many of his students in Virginia had veterans in the family or similar military backgrounds, and standing for the Pledge was a meaningful way to pay tribute to that.

“All I ask my students to do is make sure they are respectful during that time, so for those who choose to stand up and say it, they may; for those who choose to sit, they may, as long as they’re not being disruptive,” Kuchan said.

Senior Elina McKenna suggested that being in high school offers more freedom in saying the Pledge. When the Pledge was recited over the loudspeakers that morning, she didn’t pay it any mind. Most of the people in her class had a similar level of apathy regardless of whether they stood or remained seated. To her class, it seemed to be an inconsequential part of their day at best and a mild annoyance at worst. McKenna said that in elementary and middle school, standing and saying the Pledge felt required by the teachers. That pressure is now less intense at AHS, and as a result, people don’t feel it’s necessary to stand and recite it.

Wes Ong, a junior, agreed. “I haven’t heard anyone saying it in a long time. Sometimes the teacher will say it, but quietly,” Ong said.

So, should students be required to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance? There’s no clear answer, but most seem to agree it’s purely up to personal preference. The Pledge has been an omnipresent part of the school day since reconstruction after the Civil War and will likely be around for a long time, but having the personal freedom to choose to stand or not to stand is a great representation of our rights as citizens in the United States of America.

Who Let the Dogs Out?

November 13, 2024

Open-toed shoes at AHS have got to go

Carissa Dessin

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

However, despite their popularity, this lackadaisical type of footwear feels out of place in a school environment. In a place of learning, it is quite jarring to see dozens of students’ feet on a daily basis. While flip-flops and other open-toed shoes may scream “summer vibes,” they’re a far cry from the sense of professionalism, focus, and safety that a school setting should aim to foster.

The sound of squeaking and plastic slapping on the floor echoes through the halls at any given hour during the spring, summer, and warmer autumnal months, indicating an unfortunate trend at AHS: flip-flops. When the weather heats up, so does the presence of open-toed shoes in every corner of the school, from the cafeteria to the classrooms, as students opt for comfort and ease over more traditional footwear.

One significant concern with flip-flops and sandals in schools is the lack of protection they provide. In the bustling halls, it’s not rare to get stepped on. Senior Kai Cruz has personally witnessed “people’s feet getting trampled in the hallway.” In high-traffic halls like the ones in AHS, shoes should be practical, and flip-flops are anything but.

This lack of practicality becomes even more glaring when students are in gym or science classes. In settings where physical activity or exposure to hazardous materials is part of the curriculum, wearing open-toed shoes is not only impractical but downright dangerous. Teachers require students to wear closed-toed shoes in labs for good reason—broken glass or spilled chemicals could cause serious injuries. Chemistry teacher Sarah Fisher said, “In the lab, it’s absolutely a safety issue. I’ve seen students hurt themselves pretty badly because they were wearing slippers.”

Gym teacher Meredith Emery has witnessed many injuries from students not wearing proper footwear, not only flip-flops but also slippers. She consistently emphasizes the importance of wearing sneakers in all of her Personal Fitness classes. “The first day of class two years ago in 2021, [a student] broke his toe because he was wearing Crocs,” she said. This is not an isolated incident, Emery stated; injuries like this are a recurring issue every year.

Then there’s the issue of hygiene. While the cleanliness of a person’s feet is not a strong concern, the mere thought of seeing other students’ feet day in and day out feels uncomfortable. Cruz summed it up perfectly when she said, “Most people hate feet, as they should, and keep them as private as possible. I personally think feet should always be hidden.” Open-toed shoes add a level of discomfort that goes beyond style, whether it’s the sight of exposed toes or the after-smell of sweaty sandals after hours of walking through school.

What makes the situation even more perplexing is that many students, who would never wear flip-flops or sandals in a professional context, see nothing wrong with wearing them to school. This type of thinking ignores the reality that school serves as a practice run for adulthood in many ways. Emery pointed out, “You wouldn’t go to your job in inappropriate clothing. And this is, to me, your job.”

Given that flip-flops are simple to put on, and ideal for warm weather, it’s no wonder students choose to wear them all the time. However, there is a price for that convenience. Schools are places where focus and safety should come first, and open-toed shoes just do not fit that bill. Whether it’s the distraction of frequent foot exposure, the safety dangers in labs and gym courses, or the lack of professionalism that flip-flops imply, these casual shoes are better suited for weekends and summer vacations—not for school.

In the end, it’s about respect. Respect for the learning environment, respect for peers who don’t want to see or smell your feet, and respect for the safety standards that schools are responsible for maintaining. So, next time you reach for those flip-flops, think twice. After all, some comforts are worth saving for when the final bell rings, and you’re heading anywhere but school.

New APs Coming to AHS

November 13, 2024

Harry Guo

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

There are simply not enough APs! It just feels like the amount of homework is just not enough for us students who are underworked and unoccupied with other activities. To remedy this issue, the College Board has announced a bunch of new APs. I’ll go through the ones that are coming to AHS this school year:

APULL: The class for students to enroll in during their senior year after taking APUSH (AP US History). The topic of this class is seduction, with the goal of helping students pull a girlfriend or boyfriend. However, designers are still struggling to get a higher average class grade than 0% in recent trials.

AP Brain Rot: In this introductory college-level skibidi studies course, students cultivate their understanding of brain rot from the founding of the Sigma to the present through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like John Pork identity; doom scrolling, rizzing, and mewing; geography and the Grimace Shake environment; looksmaxxing and mogging; the role of Fanum Tax; brain rot from the screen to the ring to the pen to the king; brain rot and TikTok Rizz Party culture; and social structure of the Costco Guys.

AP Algebra II: In an effort to make more money—I mean, to enrich the skill sets of high school students—the College Board will introduce AP Algebra II, the prerequisite for the newly formed AP Precalculus course.

AP Personal Fitness: Focuses on the art of pretending to work out when the teacher walks by.

AP Computer $$$cience: I did NOT fumble on the keyboard. This course might look like a long-lost cousin of AP Computer Science A or AP Computer Science Principles, but it’s a completely different beast. I’m talking about a class designed for those future computer scientists who’ve got nothing but dollar signs in their eyes. The course kicks off with a unit composed of how to find a job in an oversaturated job market, with the last unit teaching students about how to handle a midlife crisis. What’s a computer science career without a dash of existential reflection?

AP Lunch: Lettuce not get carried away here, this class won’t be as easy as pie… the steaks in this class are very high. Let’s get to the meat of the situation: if you don’t get at least seconds during lunch or don’t have the money in your account to, you’re going to end up in a pickle. This AP isn’t for everyone, it’s going to cost a lot of cheddar. Eggscuse me with how corny I was milking all these puns just now; there is good news, despite how fishy this course may seem. If you get a 4 or 5, you walnut have to take lunch in college.

AP Calculus ABC: If you’re the kind of student who tackles AP Calculus BC with the grace of a baby giraffe on roller skates, and then makes an exit to AP Calculus AB, where you can’t help but yawn at the pace of the lessons, then AP Calculus ABC is perfect for you.
AP Pig Latin: In this in-depth course studying the ancient language of Igpay Atinlay, students will tackle the language’s rich vocabulary and complex grammar while covering various classic titles, such as Evernay Onnagay Ivegay Ouyay Upyay by Ickray Astleyyay.

New Weekly Phone Calls Keep Families Involved

November 13, 2024

Luka Oatman

STAFF WRITER

Principal Jimmy D’Andrea has introduced a new method of communicating with AHS families this year: a newsletter delivered via phone call.

In previous years, AHS updates were only conveyed to families through email. While this method worked for some parents, others who may not have had time to thoroughly read the letter had to rely on their students to learn about school news. However, with a new principal comes new traditions, as the school has seen during D’Andrea’s time at AHS.

These Sunday-night phone calls go live every week around 7 P.M. They include around two minutes of information about events and changes around the school.

“I try to think from the perspective of, ‘What are the key things that parents and guardians need to know related to the school as a whole?’” said D’Andrea when asked about how he decides what to tell families about each week. “They’re things that students may mention to their parents, but it’s also helpful for the parents to have access to this weekly news so that they can support their student.”

Students and parents around AHS have expressed appreciation for the new form of news, feeling that it helps make it easier for families to stay connected and involved with the school.

“Every Sunday night, when the phone rings, my parents are quick to answer the phone. They’re very excited to hear the principal’s message,” said Henry Kane, a senior. “I think it’s really helpful for families to stay informed and be prepared for the week ahead.”

D’Andrea hopes that parents and students alike will benefit greatly from these quick and easy broadcasts, learning about school events from parent-teacher conferences to homecoming dances and getting more involved than ever before.