THE
VISOR
archbishop hoban high school - junior issue - 12 may 2021
Kicking off a new year of The Visor in style
Special send-off for class of 2021 pg. 2
Meet the 2021-2022 Visor staff pg. 6-7
The pros and cons of this school year pg. 8-9
two
editorial
Dear class of 2021,
It’s crazy how fast time flies. I bet you never thought this day would come. Your days at Hoban now number so few, so it’s time to take a moment for a couple thank yous. We understand this hasn’t been easy for any of you. Losing a sense of normalcy your junior and senior years of high school is unthinkable. And yet, it happened to you. No matter how dire the circumstances became, you carried yourselves with grace and led our school admirably. You found ways to make the most of situations, even when it seemed little could be done to change them. And in spite of these difficult times, your class banded together to persevere, putting Mum Day together and having the chance to rock out at senior prom. Your strength, initiative and guidance will be dearly missed. Thank you for modeling these traits for us. To our senior friends and teammates: thank you for welcoming and mentoring us. We came into Hoban as strangers, and you showed us how to band together as collective classes. You modeled the Hoban traditions and kept many alive throughout these trying times. Whether in the athletic arena or the classroom, your commitment to the betterment of sportsmanship and knowledge will encourage us to carry on your legacy in the years to come. To the Visor senior staff—Sara, Alex, Josh, Luke, Grace, Gavin, Dylan, Maia—thank you for the laughter and friendship that made this year bearable. Each of you brought something unique to this experience: well-crafted articles, insightful input in class debates, good-natured camaraderie. We will value the lessons you taught us and cherish the memories made. Wherever life takes you, we know you’re all capable of greatness and wish you all the best as you take the next step. You have left your mark on the Visor, setting a precedent for fun and friendship for future students. None of us expected our high school experience to turn out this way. None of you expected to spend half of your senior year learning virtually or wearing a mask. No one could have predicted the course of events that led to this point. In spite of all of this, you persevered; you triumphed; you thrived. Without your leadership, your friendship, your mentorship, many of this year’s positives would all remain negatives. Thank you for living out the Hoban mission. Thank you for your efforts to cultivate the hearts and minds of younger students in the spirit of Christ. Thank you for a year of laughter and tears, friendship and cheers, and compassion and relief from these nightmares. We appreciate everything you’ve accomplished and for the irreplaceable memories created. Good luck in your future endeavors, and through it all, remember to stay true to you.
Sincerely, The classes of 2022, 2023 and 2024
photo via alex dillon The 2020-2021 Visor staff poses for a final picture.
THE
A final farewell to the class of 2021
VISOR
archbishop hoban high school mailing address: one holy cross blvd. akron, ohio 44306 website: hobanvisor.news email: visor@hoban.org awards CSPA gold medalist NSPA first class ASPA first place Quill and Scroll Int’l first place OSMA first place signed letters for publication are welcome. our mailbox can be found in the main office. unsigned editorials represent the consensus of the editorial board. signed opinions represent the views of the writer only.
staff editors-in-chief mia gallagher victoria jackson adviser t.k. griffith staff reporters max alexander hannah bulgrin leah dragmen grace gallagher sawyer huckabee hannah justice jack stephens photo via matthew schell
opinions
three
Spice up the plot with a tree and sled
by: victoria jackson
volved, Ethan and Mattie begin to lust after one another (notice how I say “lust” and not “love”), and are determined to be together. Ethan, being the disillusioned man he is, almost packs up and leaves with Mattie, then decides against it (at least he got that part right). Later on, after Zeena has become slightly suspicious of Mattie and Ethan (and also considering she needs someone who can help her in her state), Mattie is sent away. Not wishing to bear the thought of parting, both Mattie and Ethan decide to end it all...by riding a sled into a tree (logical, right). Now, I could elaborate on how little sense it all makes. But I won’t go that far, considering that it is somewhat of a sensitive topic. The pitiful plot portrayed in these painful pages reminds me of a particular discussion in Mrs. Bulgrin’s religion class about marriage and commitment. (For the sake of the underclassmen, I won’t spoil the course for you. However, I will say there is a huge difference between freshman religion courses and junior religion courses). Possibly, had Mattie and Ethan taken a religion class at Hoban (or maybe if they’d just used basic common sense), they would not be in their current predicament.
photo via jake hier
I’ve had to read quite a few summer reading books; some would say too many. But the novel sure to inspire a hearty rant is Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton. Don’t get me wrong, Wharton is an impressive lady. She wrote novels at a time when women writers were frowned upon while using a male pseudonym. She lived in a very charming country house in Massachusetts that I toured once on a whim with the family. However, Ethan Frome really ruined my perspective of Wharton. Maybe her other novels are better; I can’t say that I’ve read any more than the almost-200-page method of torture. If you have yet to read this…wonderful…novel, I will be praying for you, but don’t read any further. This will only be a major spoiler. If you have read the novel or would never read it in the first place, I’ll have an audience to share my pain and anguish. First off, a speedy coverage of the plot: Ethan and his wife, Zeena, have invited Zeena’s cousin Mattie to stay with them. Mattie is expected to take care of the house and of Zeena, as her health appears to be rapidly declining. Mattie, however, isn’t very good at helping around the house, which distresses and upsets Zeena. Unfortunately for everyone in-
The McVic
The ending? Tragic. Ethan ends up with an injured leg and a limp. Mattie is completely crippled and constantly requiring care. Ironically, Zeena is left to take care of the both of them. Despite the torturous nature of the novel, the story is largely symbolic of how lust can drive you to extremes if you’re unable to exhibit self control. I admit that the lesson learned at the end was necessary. However, ramming into a tree with a sled because of deep rooted lust for your wife’s cousin? Uh...can I get a refund for the hour of torture that led seemingly nowhere? I can’t? Oh. Great.
Summer reading verses common sense Mia
by: mia gallagher
constitutes the purchase of a book many students would never read otherwise—or don’t read period. Additionally, the classwork for these books can often be viewed as uncreative busywork that fails to motivate students to put effort in throughout the year. By removing the requirement, English teachers would ensure each student comes into school in equal standing and excited to read rather than completely adverse to it. 2.) Expand the book list I understand that not all books meet high school reading standards. But adding variety to the list could make the homework more enjoyable. Only presenting one choice automatically decreases interest and sense of free will for students. If you want any hope of engaging students, providing various genres, authors and themes to choose from is a step in the right direction. 3.) Adjust the assignment list Any student can testify that it takes 10 times longer to read any book when forced to make annotations—even longer when the student isn’t interested in the subject matter to begin with. I understand that annotations and other book-based assignments enrich the learning process, but asking students to complete the same, unimaginative assignment fails to foster creativity and problem solving skills. By expanding the assignment list
Maia Moe
photo via jake hier
My dear readers, I must confess that I never intended to write this article. I really believed that I would take this opportunity to once again express my undeniable disdain of John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath. And honestly, that article probably would have been a much more interesting read. My sincerest apologies for depriving you of another honest review. However, after publishing my first criticism of The Grapes of Wrath, (or as Jude Yovichin calls it “The Communist Manifesto, Volume Two”), TK challenged me to find a feasible alternative—a search which still remains inconclusive because let’s be honest, American modern and contemporary literature can be a total snoozefest. Instead, I only seek to explore alternatives to summer reading altogether, to fix the flaws in this broken system and make it more engaging. Reading should be an adventure, not a painful chore. It’s where we go to escape our harsh reality, not undoubtedly enter one much worse. It should motivate us to better our storytelling abilities, not wish we were illiterate. However, summer reading fails at each of these, leading many students to give it a half-hearted or no attempt at all. To remedy this, here are some alternatives to Hoban’s current summer reading requirement. 1.) Abolish it altogether Yes, as shocking as this may sound, it isn’t an unreasonable option. Summer reading
or creating a more open-ended format, students would gain more from the experience. 4.) Make it an optional reading log Even with these changes, some students will still choose to forego the coursework. As opposed to reprimanding these students, make the work optional and set up a reading log for extra credit. This way, students who do not complete the work are not penalized and yet, an extra boost is provided to those willing to put in the work. I understand that creating summer reading coursework can be challenging and must be uniform for all. However, to fully engage students, it must be revised. If not, students and teachers alike will continue to see these summer reading book critiques for years to come. Trust me, chances to criticize books like the Grapes of Wrath will always be readily available.
four
features
Hoban’s math club knows there’s strength in numbers by: victoria jackson
and leader of the new cohort. “There is a significant amount of research about the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits of time in nature. But all of these take an investment of time. We will have time for these next year.” Bates and the other science department teachers have been working tirelessly with park staff to create engaging coursework. Although the schedule is still under construction, some possible topics include hands-on activities like white tailed deer management, invasive species removal, trail maintenance and various restoration projects, and discussions based on the ethics of environmental care, public health and nature’s effect on mental health. “Education has changed a great deal over the last two decades. A lot of information can be discovered outside of school,” Bates said. “By expanding school into real world scenarios on a weekly basis, we can give Hoban students tools to make better decisions about what and how they want to learn in the future.” Cohort members will also be enrolled in an independent study period. This time will be reserved for students to meet with a faculty advisor who will help them complete environmentally-based awareness projects and provide the creative medium to accomplish them. In doing so, these students will be able to take ownership of their coursework and use their imagination to enact change. “I hope students will learn the joy of self directed learning. I hope they will experi-
ence many real world applications of what we study in class. I hope this helps them decide on a future path—what to study in college and what sort of work they might be called to do Brandywine Falls in CVNP. in the world,” Bates said. “I also think school should be FUN! And I think this entire program will provide a lot of opportunity to remind us of the joy in learning.” With the program set to kick off its pilot run this fall, the new, innovative environment is sure to become a favorite of the Hoban community. And be on the lookout for updates and features in next year’s Visor through “Keeping Up with the Cohort—” what will hopefully become a consistent column on the inner-workings and progression of the group. Nevertheless, the Sustainability Cohort will make its name known, ushering in a new era of environmental awareness for the Hoban community. Who knew senior year could be as relaxing as a simple walk in the park?
photo via jenila kostko
Ohio Math League, and the Math Club started to give them extra practice,” Kostko said. Members participate in various contests throughout the year, including the American Mathematics Competition (AMC), Online Math League (OML) and the State Mathematics Tournament hosted by the Ohio Council of Teachers of Mathematics (OTCM). Strategy games, puzzles and other math problems are used in order to prepare the students for these competitions. One member, sophomore Olivia Fess, came up with the idea of a “Math Problem of the Day” which can be found in the
glass case next to Mrs. Kostko’s room. Students who can correctly answer the problem are rewarded with a piece of candy. Junior Matthew Schell, president and a veteran member of Math Club, helped to boost the club’s popularity during COVID-19. Surprisingly, his position began as a birthday joke and is now official. “I had been in Math Club for a couple of years and I helped keep it around during COVID,” Schell said. “So a couple of the kids suggested that I become president on my birthday, and it sort of just became official.” It’s clear to see that the club has both a productive and fun atmosphere. Students not only compete in competitions, but also support their fellow classmates. “Everyone there is a friend,” Schell said. “It’s a really nice environment to be a part of.” Even despite the challenges of this year, Math Club has remained a successful, close-knit community here at Hoban.
Math Club at their winter break meeting.
Although often overshadowed by other big-name groups like Chess and Spanish club, Hoban’s Math Club has recently stepped into the spotlight, becoming an instant favorite among its members. Math Club, a group only composed of about 15 students a year ago, now boasts more than 40 members. This quick turnaround surprised most of its veteran members and moderator Jenila Kostko, and is now at full capacity. Math Club meets almost every week either during enrichment or afterschool. “There were a lot of students who excelled in the
Hoban enters a new era of environmental awareness
Often, students can be heard discussing Hoban’s easier or more engaging courses as ‘a walk in the park.’ But what would you do if this simple idiom could become a reality in the school day? Then look no further than Hoban’s newest classroom experience: Sustainability Cohort—a course that will soon be a favorite of students who prioritize environmental care, hands-on learning and nature hikes. The cohort, which will provide an interesting and engaging experience for Hoban’s seniors, combines a traditional classroom experience with a self-directed, ever-evolving learning environment. Students enrolled in the cohort will take environmental science, bioethics and public health on gold days—all of which will be applied to real world situations on trips
photo via pinterest.com
Ledges trail in CVNP.
to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. “On our day in the park, classes will overlap. Time will be fluid. Each day in the park will have TIME in nature,” said Candy Bates, environmental science teacher
photo via gowaterfalling.com
by: mia gallagher
features
Waves of change radiate from FEC’s inaugural year New year, remarkable change. The start of the second semester came with a new, vibrant student experience which hopes to make a profound impact on the Hoban community: Female Empowerment Club (FEC). With its inaugural meeting, FEC became one of the first entirely female-composed clubs at Hoban, with its mission to provide an open forum of discussion for this school’s strong female leaders. In addition to this incredible milestone, the club also boasts an interesting creation story—one that speaks volumes about the initiative of these female leaders. Over the past year, juniors Veronica Savitski, Madeline Mlachak and Juliana Parisi laid the groundwork for the group, working together to draft a club proposal, prepare the discussion topics and organize outreach efforts. “We have had plans for most of the meetings since before the club was formed,” Savitski said. “Only once or twice have we had to improvise an idea due to some sort of planning issue.” As for the typical meeting structure, the girls propose a topic of conversation for each gathering, creating a safe forum for expression and leadership opportunities. To oversee and moderate the discussion, Dr. Emily Ramos has stepped in as the club’s faculty sponsor and works with its founding members to create this learning environment. “For most meetings, we sit and have discussions as a whole group, encouraging everyone to speak their minds and ask any ques-
tions they might have. One meeting, we drew affirmations or a service project benefiting inspiration notes,” Savitski continued. “Coming a women’s shelter, we hope to spread posup soon, we are having guest speakers come itivity and empowering messages around talk with us (we reached out to 3, I believe the Hoban community and beyond!” Interested in becoming one of we have only heard back from one so far).” Going forward, the group hopes these voices of change? Get involved. Meetto continue growing their membership and ings, which are held during Enrichment A make a lasting impact here in the Hoban com- once every few weeks, are open to all lamunity. No longer will the ideals and senti- dies in the Hoban community. To find out ments of Hoban’s female population go unan- more, contact Savitski, Mlachak, Pariswered or unrecognized. The stage has been si or any other club members for details. The days of sitting idly by waitset to show these young leaders the voice for change they have in this world, all while ad- ing for change to happen are over. The Feditionally learning the importance of validat- male Empowerment Club hopes to be this ening other women’s viewpoints in the process. gine for change for years to come, so what’s “For next year and the years going holding you back from getting onboard? forward, we hope this club grows even more, and have a few projects to empower the Hoban comm u n i t y, ” Mlachak and Parisi said. “Whether it be covering the mirrors with Female Empowerment Club members pose as Roise the Riveter following their meeting.
photo via Twitter
by: mia gallagher
five
Chess club is a huge hit, we just had to ‘check’ it out Over the recent year, Hoban’s chess club has grown exponentially. The club takes place during enrichment B and C on the first gold day of every week in room 16, the steel drum room. The Hoban chess community is welcoming to all and willing to help you learn— even if it means beating you a few times. The advisor and chess extraordinaire, Mr. Martin, also adds to this inviting environment,
photo via hobanchessclub intsagram Chess club students build a rook tower.
encouraging players of all skills to join up. And if you’re feeling lucky, you can be the next player that attempts to dethrone him. Chess, an intense game, is normally played in a quiet, somber environment but the students in the chess club do not let that stop them from having a good time. As pieces are moved on the board, players emit excitement and electricity that is tangible. You can feel the passion for chess filling the room. With a wide range of skill levels, there is always a worthy opponent. Some members joined to rekindle their love of chess while others are just beginning to learn to play. The latter is true for freshmen Grace Fricker and Charlie Hite. Fricker and Hite both recall having little knowledge of the game of chess when they first came to the club. “I knew what all the pieces did, but in chess club I learned to win, ‘’ stated Fricker when questioned about her experience. Since joining the club, Fricker and Hite have improved their skills immensely and have even become chess nemeses. “These games give me something excit-
ing to look forward to and provide a goal to always improve upon at the weekly meeting,” Hite said. Much of the growth can be attributed to sophomore Frank Bradshaw. He was originally drawn to the chess club because of the camaraderie and feeling that he was welcome to be himself. After attending chess club for a few weeks, he chose to share its charm with others in the Hoban community. Many of the chess club’s most loyal members found themselves first attending upon Bradshaw’s request. Come and witness what Bradshaw and the other club members know as a warm and inviting environment. The magic of the age-old game of chess is waiting for you in room 16, but you need to make your move to come experience it. .
Hite makes a smart move against Fricker in one of their weekly chess face offs.
photo via leah dragmen
by: leah dragmen
six
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Sophomore Staff Reporter Jack is a sophomore and firstyear writer for The Visor. He is a member of the Hoban baseball team. His free time is spent watching sports and spending time with friends and family. After high school he plans to major in journalism and to work as a writer for a sports network.
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eight
features
It’s time to put the 2020-2021 school year to rest
What do students look forward to about next school year? (based on 100 responses)
This year brought many sweeping, systemic changes to the Hoban campus and school day. While some were lovingly embraced, others were met with heavy backlash. Today, we set out to review the good and the bad—which changes should remain and which should be remedied. Thank you to all of the students who participated in our survey. We appreciate your feedback and hope you agree with our views on the same matters.
We’ve lost HOW many school days due to the block classes? by: sawyer huckabee
I’m not sure if you know who I am. But, if you don’t, I am one of those people. Yep, you’ve heard it here first: I am one of those people who has calculated how much school time we have lost this year down to the minute. I’ll spare you from the grievance of my two pages of meticulous calculations, but it’s 810 minutes of instruction time per class. That means we’ve lost around 18 days of school (or 18 periods per class) from switching from 45-minute periods to the block schedule ALONE (Math department, please spare me if I am incorrect. I forgot how to do basic arithmetic when learning trig.). Keep in mind, additional weeks of instruction time fell away from starting late, going online, etc., leaving students with
a whole bunch of content without a whole lot of time. But this is just the tip of the iceberg! Those minutes don’t account for another crucial element: boredom. Imagine yourself a year ago, sitting through 45-minute periods, antsy for that darn bell to ring. Fast forward to today; you’re sitting through 90-MINUTES, and how do you feel? I won’t name names, but there are a couple classes that seem to never end. I greatly appreciate any teacher that allows for some “brain break” time—either with a walk, stretch or just stopping the content cramming for a little bit. However, there’s just one major problem with that. Without a brain break, you lose precious content due to boredom; with a brain break, you
What did students think about 90-minute block classes and blue-gold?
1
Disliked, return to old
2
3 (based on 100 responses)
4
5
Loved it, keep it
lose even more content with just five minutes a day of nothing. Classes are already behind, and constant but necessary breaks per class period adds up to quite a few more wasted days. SPOILER ALERT: it’s more than a week. I actually calculated it: 10 days. Two whole weeks of school, that’s a horrifyingly large number. Just to remind you, that’s 38 days gone down the drain. But, I know what you’re thinking. Why should I care? Well, because your life is flying past you at an ever-increasing pace and you’ve become a senior, junior or sophomore in no time. Before you know it, you’ll be attending college and Hoban will be in the rearview mirror. One other thing: AP Exams. Every AP class has a curriculum sent out by the College Board, which has pacing guides. Most chapters require 18-20, 45-minute class periods. That means two chapters of the exam GONE. Obviously, teachers will cram, which only causes more problems. Content you can’t cover or have to rush, which can be anywhere from 20-34 percent of the exam, is still fair game on the test. I get it. High school is tough. Change is tough. Pandemics are tough. Switching to a block schedule just causes too many problems, most of which could be solved if we just cut the class changes down to 5 minutes, but who wants that? Let’s not make it tougher on ourselves. It won’t happen next year, but someday, let’s go back to the old ways.
features
nine
One, two, three, four, let us keep backpacks one year more by: mia gallagher Should students be allowed to carry backpacks throughout the day?
1 No chance
2
3
(based on 100 responses)
Let’s be honest, many of the changes this school year have been a challenge to adapt to. Hybrid schedule, no late start, new 90-minute classes all made their presence known in the disdain and anguish of the student body. While few incentives did accompany these COVID changes, one such adjustment should remain: backpacks. The days of carrying half a schedule worth of textbooks, notebooks and binders are now a fading nightmare, one many students hope never to relive. And like it or not, backpacks have cut hallway traffic in half and allow students to arrive on time—10-minute class change or not. However, where something good exists, there will always be arguments from the opposition. So today, as always, I present to you the common sense of the matter: backpacks are here and they should be here to stay. For years, students safely stored
4
5 Absolutely
their personal belongings—like backpacks— in their lockers, eliminating the possibility of concealed contraband entering the classroom. When we adopted the hybrid schedule, however, the necessity of lockers disappeared. Now that we’ve returned to a somewhat normal set up, many teachers have found it difficult to keep other belongings out of the classroom. First, administration allows students to carry their backpacks around and what comes next: lunch boxes, coffee, energy drinks, non-Hoban outerwear *insert Mr. Lucey’s gasp here,* it’ll be anarchy. The shock and horror of non-Hoban outerwear adorning the chair backs of good-natured students is unthinkable. Yes, there will always be a few rule breakers, but overall, most students take the rules seriously and would follow them to ensure the continued use of backpacks throughout
the building. We aren’t unreasonable after all. Another common argument claims backpacks become a fire hazard when left strewn about the classroom floor. Yes, any obstacle in the way of safely exiting the building should be eliminated. But by this logic, stacks of textbooks, chairs, tables, desks—even fellow students—can arguably become the very hazards that opponents claim backpacks to be. Not all obstacles can ever be eliminated, and claiming a few backpacks are the source of fire safety problems could not be more short-sided. But what about the classroom aesthetics, couldn’t backpacks be seen as *gasp* unnecessary clutter or worse *double gasp* distracting? Fear not, because contrary to common-held beliefs, students do not get distracted at things as trivial as backpacks, we do have control after all. In terms of clutter, backpacks can be hung on chair backs or stored under desks during class— out of sight, out of mind. And let’s be real, backpacks might just be the ticket to encouraging a shadow to choose Hoban. After all, carrying a 10lb bag on your back is much more feasible than holding a 10lb stack of books in your arms. We can all agree that this year has created a lot of headaches and struggles. However, the ability to carry our hefty load of school supplies on our backs definitely lightened the load. By carrying this change through to future years, we can ensure the heavy burden will be lifted from students for years to come.
Think enrichment is total waste? Here’s some alternatives by: victoria jackson
Whether you view enrichment as a study hall, free period or even as an elongated lunch period, the 100 minutes provide a lengthy stretch of time for all students to use. Yet, some are left to question whether enrichment provides us with too much time. Some feel that the 100 minute period has been a comforting and enjoyable break from the usual 90-minute classes. To other students, enrichment isn’t properly utilized and could be much better suited with another course; possibly even with another schedule altogether. While a list of solutions might be posed, there are three specific suggestions that come to mind: 1.) Keep everything as is and encourage clubs, activities and students to fully utilize the period. 2.)Keep the block schedule and switch enrichment to first period on Thursdays. 3.)Revert back to the old schedule and resume Late Start Thursdays. If keeping with the block schedule and regular enrichment period, it would be best used for clubs, activities and tutoring. Enrichment already serves this purpose for quite a few students and moderators. If more people find
What do students think should happen to enrichment?
(based on 100 responses) ways to make the period worthwhile, enrichment will be a much more productive period. School activities such as dodgeball in the gyms are also possible suggestions, although it might be somewhat difficult to organize. If still wishing to stay with the block schedule, enrichment can be moved up to fifth period and serve as an alternative to Late Start Thursdays. Students dropped off early can report to their regular enrichment rooms and other students will have the opportunity to sleep in or buy breakfast if need be. For next year, this solution might be the most practical option, as switching back to the older schedule will take some getting used to. Finally, reverting back to the old sched-
ule and reinstating Late Start Thursdays seems to be a favorite among students. The 90-minute classes are draining and make concentration extremely difficult; 50-minute classes allow students to better process the information they are receiving and stay alert while at their desks. Students and teachers would have to brave all 6-7 of their courses every day, yet many found it easier to learn with the old schedule regardless of the amount of classes. Whether returning to the old schedule, keeping the new or switching courses around, the enrichment period can be a huge benefit if used properly.
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Lower field receives a face-lift after a generous donation
photo via max alexander Construction vehicles at work on turfing field.
You have probably heard the constant hum of construction crews down at Hoban’s athletic fields. Possibly you’ve even noticed that the softball field is now a huge pile of dirt. For those wondering, this is due to the addition of two new turf fields. The gift of these fields comes from Hoban funding as well as a $250,000 grant from the Cleveland Browns (partnered with
the NFL GrassRoots Program) through their “10 Days of Giving” campaign. These fields will be utilized by the football, soccer, lacrosse and softball teams, along with local youth sports teams. The excitement and buzz surrounding the new turf is growing immensely. “We are beyond blessed to receive turf,” said junior defender Aidan Cluse, a member of the boys’ soccer team. Cluse is happy to get rid of the lower grass fields in hopes that it will improve the team’s overall performance. “It will improve our practices tremendously since we play most of our games on turf,” Cluse continued. Junior shortstop Ellie Hardman
She also shared that these new facilities will be some of the best in the state. “The field will be an attraction for opposing teams,” she said. The excitement extends to the coaches as well. Coach Clem, boys’ lacrosse coach, is very excited for the new turf fields and how they will improve the quality of his practice. “It will be nice to get practice from 4-6 instead of late at night,” Clem said. Many students will be thankful for the early night games. In a few short weeks, these highly-anticipated facilities will be ready for action.
will also enjoy the new fields. “In past years, we have been forced to cancel games and practices due to inclement weather and field conditions. The turf will allow us to play regardless of Ohio’s unpredictable weather,” Hardman said. The lower field stripped of grass, ready for the new turf.
photo via max alexander
by: max alexander
It’s time to put the rumored return of sweatshirts to rest by: mia gallagher
Hooded sweatshirts. The once valuable break from the same run-of-the-mill polo now remains a distant dress-code memory, one dearly missed by all who knew it. Although the 20202021 school year brought on many sweeping dress code changes—stricter sandal guidelines, mandatory masks, loss of game day and Truesday shirts—none were met with as much student outrage as the hooded sweatshirt amendment. Out of this overwhelming backlash came numerous rumors, hushed whispers in the crowd predicting the hooded sweatshirts fateful return next school year. However, after a sit-down with Dean of Students Tim Lucey, these rumors can be put to rest. “Hoodies are staying as is,” Lucey emphatically stated. “We’re going to look at doing ‘hoodie Fridays’ but as of right
photo via Twitter
now they are not back in the dress code.” This may come as a surprise to students as many wholeheartedly believed this once beloved uniform staple would return. Not only are these sweatshirts a comfortable and warm alternative to the traditional polo (although students were required to wear one under the hoodie anyway), these pricey items cost anywhere between $35 and $55 each. While no longer fully integrated into the dress code, Lucey claimed students would see a return on their hoodie investment through ‘hoodie Fridays,’ which will hopefully be an acceptable compromise heading into the future. In terms of other dress-down days, students can expect to see an amount similar to this year—possibly more. Lucey alluded to plenty of dress-down days in the warmer months like September and May, and talked about plans for implementing more jeans and blue-gold spirit days throughout the year. However, it still remains unclear whether other dressdown traditions like Truesday, Roundtable and game day shirts will return. “We haven’t had any of those discussions yet, but probably not Truesdays,” Lucey claimed. “However, Mr. Tocchi and I have had discussions about looking into some different T-shirts.” As for spirit weeks, students can look forward to the traditional dress-down for Mum Hoodies and other Hoban outerwear hung up in the bookstore.
Day and Catholic Schools Week, with the possibility of more through planning. “That comes down to student council proposals and conversations with student body leaders,” Lucey said. “But yes, I think we would all be open to variations of other spirit weeks as well.” Newly-elected student body President Jude Yovichin’s agenda includes a push for more frequent spirit days. Although students must wait and see if this goal will come to fruition next school year, Yovichin is committed to working with administration to bring as many as possible. In spite of these changes and proposed plans, many students may still be outof-sorts about the loss of hooded sweatshirts. However, all change comes with acceptance in time, and administration’s plan makes this transition a little easier for those most greatly affected by the dress code change. “I know students want to have hooded sweatshirts, but we’re looking at a compromise,” Lucey said. “Can we make a compromise where yes, they’re not going to be everyday dress, but could we find ways to incorporate them because I know a lot of people have invested money into hooded sweatshirts.” Although hoodies will not return in full for the 2021-2022 school year, students can rest easy with the reassurance that they will live on through new traditions and memories, many of which will become the new staples of the Hoban dress code for years to come.
eleven news Hoban choir students await the return of the sounds of music The Hoban hill has yet to awaken with the sounds of music. Of the many joys taken from us, singing was one of them. Blending voices to portray powerful and meaningful stories was barred under Covid guidelines, as it put others more at risk of contracting the disease. Plans to bring back Hoban’s choir program had been arranged this year, but Covid called an audible. However, as the vaccine distribution continues to ramp up across the country, singing while socially-distanced will finally be unmuted. I’m sure some of you are probably wondering: when will the choir program return? The answer is hopefully by next year. The future of the choir program was discussed with principal Dr. Emily Ramos, who told us the job application for the position of choir director should be posted in the next few days. “It will be a posting for a part-time choir teacher, and they will help not only with the choir class, but also with the liturgical music for masses,” Ramos said. The choir director will assist with the musical productions as well. Possible plans for additional mu-
sical programs are also being considered. cased in Hoban’s halls are a possibility. However, this lies heavily on the abilities Any group of students interested in creatand visions of the incoming choir director. ing a small band of their own can collaborate “As a school, when we interview for during enrichment. With supervision, they the choir teacher, part of the discussion with can organize their own ensemble and play candidates will be ‘how do you build and devel- during lunch and enrichment periods, out in op a program?’” Ramos explained. “Right now, the halls and during the Christmas season. [choir] is one class. What do we do so that it Although much surrounding the choir can grow to be two classes?” One of the musical programs students have looked forward to is a band program. While this is a possibility, it would take the right person to truly set it in motion. “The dream scenario would be finding a really dynamic person who has an excellent choir background, but also an instrumental background as well,” Ramos said. If Hoban is fortu- Piano covered with sheet music. nate enough to find a choir director who can program and Hoban band is still up in the air, conduct both voices and instruments, the fu- there is hope that voices (and maybe even inture of a band program might become a reality. struments) will once again steal the spotlight. For now, smaller quartets showphoto via wllpaperflare.com
by: victoria jackson
As remodeling of CREATE Studios ends, what happens next?
on CREATE Studios. With a new and improved area just for arts and nothing else, it will be a big relief to all Hoban artists to feel at home. “Planning is complete, construction is finished, furniture is being installed but the most important ingredient has yet to be added: students,” said Micah Kraus, chair of the art department. “Once the rooms are full of hard working kids, in-progress projects and phenomenal instructors it will be fully vibrant and complete.” The studio, which will boast opportunities for interactive learning, art critiques and a permanent home for Hoban’s Mac lab, will finally be the functional and durable space any aspiring artist could dream of. “I think CREATE Studios will enhance the students’ learning experience because they will naturally feel immersed in a space dedicated specifically to the visual arts,” teacher Jill Fortman said. “The space was designed
with the needs of the students in mind so that they feel energized and pumped to further their artistic growth and development.” The excitement to fill CREATE Studios with students continues to grow as its grand opening draws closer. Soon, Hoban artists’ days of living in the school’s basement will be over. Be patient, a new era of creativity will descend upon Hoban and fill the silence with beauty.
New permanent home for the Maclab.
photo via mia gallagher
photo via mia gallagher CREATE couples artroom with classroom.
Honors studio art students tour new art space and try out new chairs.
photo via mia gallagher
by: grace gallagher
Art students have patiently awaited the day when CREATE Studios—Hoban’s new, state-of-the-art facility —would open and become the dedicated, artist-friendly space this school once lacked. Soon, art-focus students, many of whom are eager to showcase their life-long love of the visual arts, will have the studio they’ve been promised. Over the last two years, on and off construction plans were discussed, but due to funding concerns and COVID-19, they were postponed until winter 2021. During this school year, art students, who were relocated to other rooms such as the Moreau Ministry Hall and the basement, found the experience in these regular classrooms subpar, lacking in the functionality that a dedicated art space provides. But, the art department will soon return to its former glory thanks to the progress
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Newly-elected STUCO leaders dish on planned agenda by: leah dragmen
After the votes were tallied for the 2021 Student Council presidential election, Mia Gallagher and Jude Yovichin came out on top in a closely contested election against well respected Sawyer Huckabee and Rachel Alexander. Their overarching agenda is geared towards “taking the school back.” All of the duo’s plans revolve around providing the seniors and underclassmen with an unforgettable year. The two main focuses will be activities and school spirit. The co-presidents look to promote games and karaoke during enrichment and rally the whole school to participate on Mum Day. “I want spirit to be a huge focus of the next year so that we can feel like a Hoban family again,” Yovichin explained. He hopes that in spite of the pandemic, solidarity on Mum
Day will help to revive school spirit. Gallagher and Yovichin would like to draw as many students as possible to sporting events and increase the energy level of the student section. To do so, they are calling upon the underclassmen. “I want all the freshmen there, and I want all the senior fans to rile up the freshmen and sophomores,” Yovichin said. Through activities such as these, the new student body leadership hopes to keep the underclassmen from feeling overlooked. By working hand in hand with all of the class presidents, Gallagher and Yovichin will make sure every class is heard. Our future presidents would like to thank the student body for being gracious enough to vote them into
photo via victoria jackson
“I want spirit to be a huge focus of the next year so that we can feel like a Hoban family again.” —Jude Yovichin
“I want all the freshmen there, and I want all the senior fans to rile up the freshmen and sophomores.” —Jude Yovichin office. They hope to serve the student body to the best of their ability, holding to their promises of improvement. With their love for the Hoban family and the immense amount of
spirit it possesses, these two will undoubtedly be able to deliver a school year that will excite all. Yovichin is ecstatic to have this opportunity with Gallagher to restore Hoban to the spirit-filled school we’ve known it to be. As our newly-elected presidents take office, the pandemic lies stripped of its power. Now, the year of the student is upon us.
“Taking our school back.”
--Yovichin and Gallagher