The Charger Spring Issue 2026

PROVIDENCE DAY SCHOOL’S THECHARGER

The Latest Spring Update

Dive behind the scenes of features, arts, and sports at Providence Day. Discover the latest global trends and hear the voices and opinions of PD students with The Charger

EDITORS’ NOTE

Dear Reader,

We are looking forward to having you read our third seasonal issue of The Charger Newspaper! In this issue, you’ll read pieces from our student-led writing team, observing recent student life and current events Our mission with The Charger is to give writers a voice and an audience for their passion, so they can connect with their community in their own way. These pieces, crafted by your peers, are for everyone, and we hope you can connect further through The Charger this issue and find something here that provides you with a fresh perspective We’re looking forward to a great rest of the year Enjoy!

The Editors

CONTACT INFORMATION

The Charger is always looking for dedicated student writers, photographers, and designers If you are interested in joining the club, please reach out to us at marcus smith@providenceday org

DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed in this issue and the articles contained within it do not reflect the official policy or position of The Charger, the editing staff, or Providence Day School

QUANDARIES AND CONCERNS: ANSWERING COMMON REGISTRATION INQUIRIES

BY JACK PAIK

Question 2: If a Department Chair is Unsure about a Class, will I be notified?

Another common question is what happens if a Department Chair decides that taking a certain AP class may not be beneficial Again, it largely varies based on the student and department In my interview, Mr Bynum noted that sometimes there are “conditional approvals” where a Department Chair may ask to meet with the student in May to see if their grades or test scores have increased to meet the requirement and make a decision based on the new data Other times, in the case that a student does not meet a requirement but is still very adamant about taking the class, the department may contact their parents to explain their recommendation for the class and give the parents the option to move forward with enrolling their child in the class or follow their guidance

Generally, it is recommended to talk with a current teacher, as they are able to provide helpful insights, before applying for any AP class, but even if a student may not qualify to take a class, they will at least be notified by the Department Chair and may still be able to take it

Question 3: What Happens if I Miss the Application Deadline for a Class?

One last common question is what happens if a student misses the application deadline for a certain class With advanced and AP class applications typically being due in late February before registration has to be finalized, students who miss the deadline ask if there is still a way to request a certain class The short answer is yes: there is still a way a student can take a class even if they miss the application deadline. Like most decisions, it again depends on the department. In my interview, Mr. Bynum said that the vast majority of departments allow for students to apply late, but not without a downside for the extension He explained that in cases where the class is very popular and not everyone that is approved has room to the class, those who apply late will be the first to not receive the class in the following fall In the case that a student forgets or misses the application deadline for a class, they may still be able to take it if they reach out to the department in a timely manner; however, applying for a class after the deadline may decrease the chances of being able to take it, so it is advised to apply within the registration period whenever possible

In general, teachers and administrators recommend reading course descriptions, applying for APs, and organizing your schedule, which can be a daunting task especially for high school students. Knowing this, Providence Day has an experienced staff of people and organized systems that are focused on student success One important tool that Mr Bynum highlighted is asking friends who previously took a class for what they thought of the coursework, curriculum, and difficulty In his words, “different learners appreciate different subjects more” and asking questions like “is there a lot of homework?” or “what's that class like?” can help a lot when deciding to take a class or not. So, if you have any questions or need any help with registration, feel free to reach out to your friends, advisors, or current teachers, because they will always be more than willing to assist you through this difficult process

PD’S ACCESSIBILITY OPTIONS

BY COLLINS GREEN

When it comes to creating a safe school community, accessibility accommodations are crucial in an educational environment At Providence Day, staff work behind the scenes to ensure there are numerous points of contact that provide support to those with injuries, disabilities, or neurological disorders, but what exactly are the accessibility options that the school provides?

To support learners who are neurodivergent, most public schools have to “follow federal laws that require special education services for students who qualify under one of thirteen disability categories,” says Sarah Ramsden, one of the Upper School learning specialists; however, as a private school, Providence Day is not a recipient of federal funding and is therefore not required to provide the federally-mandated special education programs

In this situation, PD utilizes Learning Specialists to support students with neurological disabilities through accommodation plans As opposed to public schools that utilize individualized instruction programs, Providence Day uses its accommodations to make sure students are supported by teachers and families in ways that best fit their specific needs. It is easy to look at these differences and wonder why Providence Day does not just follow a model similar to federally-funded schools; however, as a college preparatory school, Providence Day acknowledges that its school is not for everyone

According to Tosha Arriola, the Head of Upper School, Providence Day realizes that do not havee the capacity to support everyone, and that is something that is taken into account during the admissions process If admissions counselors believe Providence Day does not have the ability to adapt to a student’s needs, they inform families of the reality of the school’s limits In spite of PD’s limited program, compared to public schools, one of the many advantages of the school’s approach is the “collaboration and flexibility that comes with an independent school environment Smaller classes and strong communication between teachers, Learning Specialists, and families make it possible to translate information from a student’s psychoeducational evaluation into practical classroom supports,” says Sarah Ramsden

This helps ensure that students who are neurodivergent are well-equipped to keep up with the academic expectations of the school Of course, PD is still flexible in classroom design and assessment areas like how different subjects are taught and how to best administer tests.

Meanwhile, PD’s campus constantly strives to maintain the best accommodations for those with disabilities or injuries Like any other private school, Providence Day has to consistently meet standards established by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). This means that every PD building has to have facilities like elevators, accessible bathrooms, and ramp access to buildings

While all of these additions seem simple, there are many people working behind the scenes to make sure the measurements and angles are exactly right For example, accessible parking spots must be close to buildings while being wide enough for van ramps to be unloaded safely The school also has to make sure signs and buttons are low enough for a person using a wheelchair to access

Despite all of this, some students, while still grateful for all of the existing options, feel that more could be done One student recounts their time on crutches and states they wish that buildings had an automatic door button While some buildings, like the Mosack Athletic Center, provide this accommodation, the most populated buildings like the Levine Academic Center and Dickson-Hemby Technology Building lack this feature Despite this, the student remembers being appreciative of the grace their teachers give them because of slower class transitions; however, they state that as a result of their slower pace, they wouldn’t have anyone to help them open doors This often resulted in a struggle to balance on crutches and hold their backpack all while trying to open the heavy doors to buildings

While the school has limitations on what accommodations they can provide due to things like needing to quickly lock down the school in the event of an emergency, many wish that more buildings featured more accommodations Meanwhile, an injured student remembers being grateful for the ramps because they found it difficult to walk up and down the stairs Furthermore, they express their admiration towards the PD community and how many people were empathetic towards them by asking how they were doing and making sure they had what they needed

Providence Day is constantly working behind the scenes to ensure that students receive the best psychological and physical support during their time at the school by making sure facilities and educational strategies remain up to date PD’s efforts are well met by all of its teachers and staff while being recognized by many students as an important and beneficial part of school life

Author’s Note

In writing this article, the author consulted the American Psychological Association’s APA Style bias-free language guidelines and resources from the ADA National Network to help ensure that terminology related to disability and accessibility is respectful, accurate, and inclusive

PD SWIMMING: A DYNASTY IN THE POOL

BY KOSTA PATEL

On February 9th, 2026, the Providence Day Varsity Girls Swim Team showed why they are the best team in the state

Not only did they win the NCISAA Division I State Championship, they did so in dominant fashion, beating the second place Charlotte Country Day Buccaneers by a whopping 88 points The Chargers podiumed in every individual and relay event, except for one, with them emerging victorious in the 200 Yard Medley Relay and 400 yard Freestyle Relay Country Day has won the state championship the last two years and were looking for a three-peat, but the Chargers shut that dream down with their spectacular performance What made the win extra sweet for the Chargers was that they were the runner up’s last year to the Bucs, with them seeking revenge after last year’s disappointment In addition, the victory provides key points in PD’s fight for the Wells Fargo Cup, which they are hoping to win for the 5th time in 6 years

The Chargers are led by Senior swimmer and Auburn commit Zetta Grace Bartee, but their depth is what makes them a force to be reckoned with Annie Shall, ranked 42nd in the nation in the class of 2028, provided valuable support with two individual second place finishes and helped the Chargers get a 1st place finish in the 200 yard Medley Relay and a 3rd place finish in the 200 yard Free Relay Arizona Smith, 10th in North Carolina in the class of 2028, also placed second in two individual events and was the anchor to the 1st place 200 yard Medley Relay team She also helped the Chargers get 1st in the 400 yard Free Relay

Congratulations to all members of the Varsity Girls Swim Team; we look forward to seeing you guys defend your state title next year!

THE OSCARS’ BEST PICTURE

BY CHLOE KASIMOV

The 2026 Oscars, which took place at 7pm on Sunday, March 15, had multiple worthy nominees for Best Picture, including Sinners, One Battle After Another, and F1 There were many more, but these films caught the attention of the public's eye, creating questions as to which should have won

In the end, One Battle After Another by Paul Thomas Anderson won the award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay Though Sinners didn’t end up winning Best Picture, Ryan Coogler’s vampire thriller won Best Cinematography, and its main star, Michael B Jordan, won Best Actor, previously running alongside other established actors like Leonardo DiCaprio for One Battle After Another and Timothee Chalamet for Marty Supreme

Paul T Anderson has talked about his creative process, that being a disciplined writing routine, staying at his desk for long periods of time every day and focusing on character development of rigid plotting details. He often describes his revision process as "ironing," where he revisits and overlays existing work. The veteran director broke his 14-nomination losing streak with One Battle After Another, as well as creating history with his revolutionary ideas and filmmaking talent

Viewers after the fact argued that Sinners should have won, considering it as a relevant film with a fresh look on supernatural elements and unsettling horror. The movie was met with critical acclaim, described with a creative plot, a stellar soundtrack, and top-notch acting from both Jordan and co-star Hailee Steinfeld Many other critics claimed that the nominations were too commercially successful, mainly referencing films like Frankenstein–which won several awards, namely for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling–and K-Pop Demon Hunters winning for Best Original Song with “Golden”

Overall, The Oscars had incredible nominations and winners, making it hard to have the public settle on one film that conquers the rest However, it may be important to note that 2025 was a fantastic year for film, with several promising movies coming out this year Among others projected to garner massive success in the box office, The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Michael are two specially exciting releases for fans and critics alike. Look out for films this year, and we shall see which takes the crown at the 2027 Oscars.

THE RARE ALLIANCE OF THREE FAITHS: RAMADAN, CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR, AND LENT

BY SAHANA SHAH

Each year, millions of people around the world gather to celebrate the holidays of Ramadan, Lent, and the Chinese Lunar New Year Though each holiday is grounded in different beliefs and histories, each celebration invites everyone to reflect, pause, and reconnect with their faiths and families These holidays are typically scattered between late January and early spring, yet this year, each holiday unfolded in a rare synchronization, where all three occurred within approximately 24 to 48 hours of each other Before examining this special alliance, let’s take a look into each celebration

Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is practiced by Muslims all over the world as a month of fasting, prayer, and self discipline Commemorating the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad, Ramadan lasts 29 to 30 days; this year, it runs from February 17th to March 19th. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims abstain from food and drinks, even water. The fast, or sawm, is less about starvation and more about reaching an ultimate goal: cultivating taqwa–a heightened awareness of God The aim is religious recalibration, with less gossip and extra generosity and care Days start typically before sunrise with a brief, small meal known as suhur At sunset, households rejoice to break the fast with dates and water, followed by prayer after the meal Some Muslims attend the mosque for Taraweeh, a special nightly prayer that may extend late into the evening. Throughout the month, many Muslims attempt to read the entire Quran Fasting is customary in the Islamic religion, but exceptions are made from those who are sick, elderly, pregnant, nursing, or menstruating Fasts can be made up later or feeding someone in need can be done as well Ramadan closes with Eid-al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast, where children often receive money and gifts

Chinese Lunar New Year is a 15-day celebration, welcoming the arrival of spring and the start of a new lunar year It is celebrated in many countries in Asia besides China, such as Korea and Vietnam In preparation, families deep clean their homes This act symbolizes ridding the house of the previous year’s poor luck, and welcomes good luck for the next year. Additionally, families may decorate their windows with red paper and adorn doors with couplets, expressing auspicious wishes for the new year: the color

red is used in decoration because it represents joy and good fortune in Chinese culture On Lunar New Year’s Eve, the festivities begin with a reunion dinner, where families and friends reconnect During the celebration, married daughters visit their birth parents, and the God of Wealth is welcomed to resume business activities, often through setting off firecrackers to attract prosperity Renri, “the common person’s birthday,” honors the day humans were created, and special offerings and prayers commemorate the birthday of the Jade Emperor A lantern festival puts an end to the festivities; paper lanterns light the way for lion dances and daylong parades or festivals, symbolizing the first full moon after the new year. In addition to putting up lanterns, people also enjoy sweets, such as tangyuan, or sweet rice Younger family members, usually children and unmarried adults, receive bright red envelopes full of money To add on to a rich celebration, the Chinese Zodiac is also associated with the Chinese new year The Chinese Zodiac is a twelve-year, animal-based cycle tied to the Lunar New Year The order–rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, pig–is determined by the Jade Emperor’s “Race of the Animals” legend. This year is the year of the Fire Horse!

Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday, excluding Sundays. Believers commemorate the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness It is also a period of preparation to celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection at Easter Traditionally, followers emphasize three main pillars: prayer, fasting (or giving up luxuries), and almsgiving to turn away from sin; in doing so, they deepen relationships with God and prepare hearts for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection Ash Wednesday is observed in Church services, where the clergy of the Church uses ashes, often collected from the burnt remains of the previous Palm Sunday’s branches, to mark the sign of the cross on followers’ foreheads; this symbolizes humility, morality, and repentance Some Christians fast on Ash Wednesday and refrain from eating meat or confining themselves to one meal’s worth of food Mandy Thursday commemorates the night before Jesus died, when he shared the Passover meal with his friends and followers Good Friday is the day Christians remember Jesus’ death by crucifixion. The “Good” reflects how Jesus’ death was a sacrifice on behalf of all humanity to receive God’s forgiveness for your wrongs or sins Easter Sunday is the joyful celebration of Jesus rising from the dead to give the opportunity of eternal life

These holidays reflect a myriad of culture, history, and family, but something rare happened this year, where they all occurred within 24 hours of each other! This “triple crown” alignment–with Chinese New Year on February 17th, Ramadan on Feb 17/18, and Lent on February 18th–hasn’t occurred since 1863, and isn’t expected to happen again until the year 2189! Ramadan is based on a strict lunar calendar, moving 10 to 11 days earlier each year, which allows it to eventually align with other calendars in a 33 year cycle. Chinese New Year, on the other hand, is based on a lunisolar calendar This calendar synchronizes lunar months with the solar years, usually by adding a 13th “leap” month every 2 to 3 years It often aligns with February lunar cycles Lent is a mix of the solar and lunar calendar Ash Wednesday is determined by Easter, which is set as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox

This year, each of these distinct calendars aligned in a rare synchronization For many Americans, this moment highlights the country’s growing religious and cultural diversity Some religious scholars noted a shared “global reset” atmosphere, as all three observances seemingly emphasize a break from routine and a focus on self improvement. If you observe this shared atmosphere more, try to take some time to reset your routine this Spring!

UNIQUE AND COOL THINGS TO DO AROUND THE CHARLOTTE AREA

BY GEORGIA HOWARD

As someone who finds Charlotte to be the most anticlimactic city on the planet, living here has forced me to get creative with exciting ways to get out of my comfort zone If you are looking for a summer bucket list, here it is! From waking up at 3am for mountain climbing to being a dog owner for a day, here is my extensive collection of Charlotte adventures The list gets gradually more chaotic as it progresses, so cross your fingers and grab your friends!

1 Run with shelter dogs (if you’re over 16) at 10am on Sunday at the Pawmotion Run Club. You get to choose the dog you run/walk with, and it's a great way to chat with friends or get some exercise while helping a cause!

2 Bake meringues and take them to a friend. Meringues are complicated, hard to perfect, and delicious Challenge yourself and figure out how to add flavors and color!

3 Go to the McGill Rose Garden and study. It is a cute, hidden rose garden where many writers and photographers hang out.

4 For the intellectuals: walk into a free lecture at UNCC. Grab a notebook and pen, take notes, and teach your friends after

5 Go to the airport overlook and have a picnic. Grab some sandwiches from Mr G’s, a nearby old fashioned diner, and enjoy a picnic at sunset watching the planes land Bring a camera and sweatshirt–it can get windy!

6 Walk an unorganized half marathon. Put on workout clothes and just start walking Go visit friends, get lunch, and see what you can find!

7 Go backpacking at Triple Falls in summer and swim in the river by the waterfalls. It’s about a three hour drive from the city center, and great for a weekend getaway! You can also learn basic wilderness survival skills, like making a bear bag

8 Take the best pictures at Camp North End. The area also has the most adorable shops and some fantastic food!

9 Attend a run club. Charlotte has an alarming number of them Pick one, show up, and run with a group of strangers who all seem suspiciously energetic at 6 am Most of them will be older than you, so strike up a conversation and see what wisdom you can gain!

10 Go trashbagging. After a rainstorm, find any grassy hill–like Freedom Park or Ballantyne’s Backyard–and grab some heavy duty trash bags Cut holes for your head and arms, add some dish soap to your stomach, and run and slide down the muddy hills!

11 Bike the greenway and get lost on purpose. The only rule: you cannot stop biking until you are lost Then, get off the greenway and find the nearest Starbucks without a map

12 Ride elevators in fancy buildings. Go to the fanciest hotels Uptown, dress up, bring a camera, and figure out all sorts of cool stuff available to the public Bonus points if you speak in a British accent the whole time.

13 Go to Big Rock Nature Preserve to play makeshift paintball. Grab an old white t-shirt and some water guns Fill the water guns with water and food dye, then head to the park You can do this anywhere, but a park with a big rock that you can climb adds to the adventure What’s not to love?

14 Ride the light rail to a random stop, get off, and explore. You have to find a rooftop you can get on once you leave the station–no maps, just fun.

15 Attend a niche club event. Examples include the Charlotte Rocketry Club and the Charlotte Model Train Society You will meet the most interesting people

16 Google a random 5k or run race, make some crazy signs, and go cheer people on. Pretend like it is the Olympics and see how much commotion you can cause

17.Go to the fire station and ask for a tour. Most of the time, if they’re not busy, the firefighters will let you You might even ask to get in the truck!

18 Go camping at Cape Lookout. On the NC coast, camping is permitted among the dunes If you’re a space nerd, bring red lights and a star map because Cape Lookout is an International Dark Sky Park Bring some friends, but beware that some of the islands are only accessible by ferry

19.Wake up at 3am and hike Crowders Mountain, OR go for a sunset hike and race down in the dark. Bring headlamps, act like you are in a movie, and have a deep conversation Here’s the catch: parking gates close at 8pm, so if you don't get back fast enough you'll have to figure out how to get out!

TOMMIE ROBINSON

BY NEIL SKEETE

Tommie Robinson is an African American artist born in 1947 in rural Lumberton, North Carolina Growing up in a segregated Jim Crow era meant Robinson faced many hardships

At the young age of seven, his father died, and his family moved to Charlotte, where Robinson says the only “goal was to make it back home”. Despite all the hardships, Robinson still loved to draw. His mom even encouraged it as a way to even grieve for his father

In his later high school years, art would become a consuming passion for Robinson He would later join the US Army at the age of 17 during the Vietnam War, and was stationed in Germany He would make money painting soldiers' portraits, which earned him more money than his commanding officer His art career would truly be set in motion upon his return to Charlotte, where he enrolled in Central Piedmont Community College, pursuing an arts degree He would eventually teach there, and obtain his first art studio at age 24 Robinson lived his life doing things no one thought was possible for an African American and will be remembered as a pioneer

Tommie Robinson’s murals can be found across Charlotte in recognizable places like The Mint Museum, the Spectrum Center, and the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Though a Charlotte artist, Robinson drew inspiration from his time in Europe, where there was no racial prejudice compared to America In Europe, he would be an audience to the breathtaking countryside and century-old museums which were like treasure chests to the 17-year-old Robinson Back in Charlotte, he would speak out with a paintbrush, addressing issues like systemic racism, environmental sustainability, and more with his artwork Robinson is defined by his 50-year long career, where his numerous works would change art in Charlotte and carve a path out for other aspiring African American artists Unfortunately, he passed away on September 17, 2025.

HOW SWEET CHARITY EMPOWERS WOMEN TODAY

BY ESHA GADDAM

Come see PD’s very own Upper School theatre production perform Sweet Charity on April 16 and 17 at 7 pm, as well as on Saturday, April 18 at both 2 pm and 7 pm.

Sweet Charity is a movie released in the late 1960’s It was directed by Bob Fosse, who crafted this entire movie for his wife to be able to perform it on Broadway. This movie dives into several key themes for women to know

Firstly, the lead, Charity Hope Valentine (unlike her name), is famously known for her continuous bad luck in love This is shown through her all her relationships other than her friendships She feels as if she has to give everything to the other person even with close to nothing in return (money, time, etc ) This is a key theme as there are young women out there constantly seeking this validation in all aspects of their lives: whether romantic, in friendships, or even in work settings However, in Charity’s case, it is not simply bad luck but the fact that she ties her worth to how other people treat her.

Towards the beginning of the film, Charity gets picked up by a famous actor named Vittorio Vidal, but he ends up using her just to upset his current girlfriend, Ursula This moment highlights how easily sincerity and kindness can be taken advantage of, when validation is desperately needed through her After this, Charity stops even trying to find someone new and makes a decision to try finding a job This marks her short period of seeking independence from relationships that don’t brighten her life

But it doesn’t last long, as just days later she encounters a new man named Oscar after an incident with an elevator This man actively shows his interest in Charity, and while she hesitates at first and questions his intentions, she soon starts having mutual feelings towards him But the fact that she even needed to take a second thought heightened her self-awareness. Rather than immediately trusting Oscar, she takes a moment to question his sincerity, showing that she has taken note of her past experience This points out the importance of women to set boundaries instead of rushing into relationships just for the sake of acceptance But, allowing herself to open up again shows Charity’s resilience and how it is not just about shutting people out, but instead seeking a balance

However, Charity is a dancer at the seedy Fandango ballroom, a small detail she hides from Oscar because she believes that he wouldn’t think of her the same Eventually, Charity reveals this fact to Oscar just to learn that he already found out one night But through stating that he doesn’t care and that he loves her regardless, he proposes soon after Charity is overjoyed and believes that her life’s purpose is fulfilled because she found someone who loves her She celebrates with brass bands and with all of her fellow dancers and managers at the ballroom

But just as they are about to sign documents for marriage, Oscar suddenly backs off and says that he cannot be with Charity because of his insecurity from her job In the end, the fact that she was a dancer turned him away from her, despite his earlier acceptance This part of the plot describes how women can be judged for their choices even when they are honest about them It puts forth the idea that empowerment is not just a few choices or characteristics that others find acceptable, but more about being accepted for your true self. Charity being rejected by Oscar was a reflection of himself not being able to go against what society expected, and was not about her true worth

There is an open ending with Charity looking forward to the next opportunities she will have It comes to show that even if a person seems to be or is kind to you, they might not have the same values or respect for you. This is what happened with Oscar. However, if he truly did not align with her work and beliefs, he should have been clear and not have led her on just to bail Nonetheless, the ending portrays one of the most important messages: that there can be empowerment with independence Even if Charity did not end up in a relationship with Oscar, she is not seen feeling broken or defeated, and instead is still standing and “brimming with life” Charity’s journey in love shows young women that feeling fulfilled doesn’t come from external validation, but rather from within. This allows resilience, and courage to come through even when you feel alone Charity helps us learn that choosing yourself can be the best way to heal, rather than losing yourself just to be chosen

FAD: ARE ART FOUNDATIONS FOR A CREDIT OR A CAREER?

BY NEIL SKEETE

Taking Providence Day’s Foundations of Art and Design class usually helps students determine whether or not to pursue art throughout their high school career Foundations of Art and Design, FAD for short, is a class most freshmen take, regardless of prior experience Many freshmen have reportedly enjoyed it describing it as an amazing introductory kit to multiple common mediums of art Although a few students critique the course, saying it “was too fast paced” or wishing they “had more time”, an overwhelming majority enjoyed the class So, if so many freshmen enjoy the course, why do most freshmen drop the arts after filling out the required credits?

Firstly, though, what makes FAD such an enjoyable class? Freshman Varsity soccer player Landon Sumlin and JV soccer player Tyler Trabucco summed it up as “an overall great experience that introduced me to a whole new world” Additionally, a more experienced artist and Varsity tennis player Samat Kramin said, it “was such a helpful class that improved how I worked with multiple mediums” FAD’s curriculum starts out the semester with a contour sketch project that introduces students to most mediums of art. It’s a great first time project that is very forgiving and teaches students the basics Following that, students dive deeper into specific mediums like clay and acrylics, wrapping up the semester with a basic yet detailed pencil drawing In all it's a fun, slightly rushed elective which introduces many to the world of art

However, the question still stands - why is it that a majority of freshmen drop most if not all art classes after the first year?

The most obvious answer is that PD only requires one fine art credit, so after taking FAD students often think that since they’ve “done what’s required”, they don’t see a reason to continue taking art However, although less prominent, there’s another that shouldn’t be ignored - the amount of effort needed

Art is a hard career to pursue because of the time required to produce a piece of art, and thus many students only pursue it as a hobby Therefore, the obvious solution would be to decrease the amount of work but increase the quality that is expected Art student Alex Young agrees with this solution, suggesting to “remove process journals”, which are journals in which students draw two required drawings every month. This would also help students improve their art as more time would be spent on each project With more time, more teaching and growth This would fulfill another request made by multiple freshmen which was to have more one-on-one teaching Ultimately, FAD is a great way for students to obtain a basic knowledge of multiple art medians However, the program could be tweaked so that students feel rushed, and potentially decide to continue art throughout the rest of their high school career.

BALANCING THE SPOTLIGHT: ATHLETICS AND THE ARTS AT PROVIDENCE DAY SCHOOL

BY LEGEND WANG

The stadium roars with every touchdown, but how loud are the cheers for a standing ovation? At Providence Day School, both athletics and arts have a deep impact on student life, yet the ways students and the broader community engage with them can look very different

From playground games to televised championships, sports are a part of life from the start Over 70% of Providence Day School’s student body in grades 7-12 participate in athletics. That said, athletics at PDS are more than just a competition; they “play a significant role in uniting [the] community by promoting school spirit, a shared pride, and positive relationship connections across the TK-12 school,” says Ms Beatty, PDS director of athletics

Fine arts like visual arts, theatre, and music are also a part of student life. High school students are required to take two semesterlong fine arts classes or a year-long course Students in performing arts classes take part in concerts and plays, and visual arts classes showcase student work on campus and encourage participation in contests While this requirement introduces students to the arts, many continue building their skills as it can extend beyond a hobby and even develop into a career.

Ultimately, both athletics and the arts play an important role in building skills and school spirit at Providence Day School While the programs provide different rhythms and types of engagement athletics involve frequent competitions, and the arts offer less frequent performances and exhibitions

“[e]ach provides unique opportunities for students to discover new talents, challenge themselves and promote a growth mindset,” Ms. Beatty comments, while also fostering school pride and shared accomplishment As Dr Hough, performing arts department chair and director of bands, explains, “If there’s one simple way the community can continue to support the arts, it is to show up When students see their peers, administrators, teachers, and community members in the audience, recognizing the time and effort they’ve put into a performance, it means a lot Being present sends a powerful message that their work matters and that the arts are an important part of our school community.”

SHOULD SERVICE HOURS BE REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION?

BY CHLOE MCGOVERN

Should students be faced with a mandatory number of service hours to earn their high school diplomas?

The answer is not a simple yes or no, there are many factors that play into how successful schools can be in implementing service hour requirements, and there is no true benefit of required service hours if they are not implemented correctly

To have an effective service requirement, there needs to be exceptional administrative and community support Additionally, the required amount of hours must not derail students from their academics Schools can achieve this by requiring a reasonable/attainable amount of service hours, incorporating service into the curriculum, connecting with charity/service organizations,creating wellplanned guidelines, and providing effective teacher preparation and training

Many advocates of required service will argue that these systems truly are academic because students are connecting what they learn to real-life and seeing the real-world examples of their curriculum Supporters claim school systems should not have to fight for service hour requirements because the best education springs from experience.

But, often when service hours become a harsh requirement students are reluctant to actually complete them and they find it hard to connect and truly enjoy their service projects This is because the requirement becomes just another thing they have to complete instead of something they could find joy and accomplishment in Students already have large to-do lists, so when it seems that service hours won’t actually help them learn, and they cannot find personal connection and enjoyment in the task it becomes less likely for them to want to complete the requirement

One way that schools have encouraged student service involvement is through recognizing and rewarding students who complete optional service At Providence Day, there are multiple service clubs such as Red Cross, Beds for Kids, and Alexander Youth that encourage student service participation and receive recognition at graduation Students at PD also become involved in their community through field trips such as the ninth grade Charger Impact Challenge, where freshmen advisory groups help out different service organizations for a day. These experiences can facilitate long-term service commitment and true connection to community

OPINION

Another debate surrounding graduation requirements focuses on senior projects These projects often include a research paper, internship, project/service, and a final presentation If done correctly, teachers, staff, and parents argue that senior projects build real-life skills such as networking, problem-solving, and time management. These projects can prepare students to step into their future and be as successful as possible However, service hours and senior projects don’t necessarily need to be a requirement for one to get involved in their community: there are many opportunities throughout Charlotte to get involved in the community and help those around us

So, should service hours be a requirement? Should a senior project be a graduation qualification? It truly depends on each community and administration. On one hand, they can be a helpful tool for real-world applications of knowledge and hard experience On the other, not everyone may be invested in a mandatory project– the PD community itself hosts a wide variety of student interests besides volunteering and philanthropy When regarding each aspect of what makes community service a welcome necessity for a student or a burden on an already rigorous academic load, it seems like while service is a beneficial concept, it need not be in everyone’s interest to fulfill a requirement for it.

THE PROS AND CONS OF THE OURA RING

BY IZZY TAPPY

Over the past decade, the use of wellness technology has skyrocketed From watches to apps on phones, it has become significantly easier to manage sleep, exercise, stress, heartrate, and more While this increase in health technology has helped millions of people, specifically those with long term illnesses like diabetes, it comes with a cost

Many people support usage of the Oura ring, an increasingly popular way of tracking health through a ring rather than a watch But what is not talked about is the impacts the Oura ring has on our anxiety levels and how we may carry ourselves throughout the day The overly informational ring has caused an increase in controversy, due to the fact that it could actually be harming people rather than helping people

In a New York Times article titled “Is All of This Self-Monitoring Making Us Paranoid?”, writer Madison Kircher states some Oura Ring wearers find that “rather than helping them feel more in control of their wellness, the data only made them fixate on potential and often nonexistent problems” The physiological side effects of these health watches have increased throughout the years, starting with the apple watch, adapting all the way to the Oura Ring Kircher also discussed how users have become increasingly more aware of what the ring tells them, impacting how they might feel To add, the ring's accuracy is quite questionable, as it does not always get information right.

Imagine this: you wear the Oura ring one day, and it tracks your sleep That morning, you see that the ring states you have gotten “poor sleep”, approximately six hours This affects many people’s anxiety, and for the rest of the day, they have “poor sleep” and “tiredness”in the back of their mind But, it is only their thoughts messing with them. What if you didn’t have the ring on? Would you be so eager to know exactly how many hours of sleep you got, dictated by a ring? Would you feel as tired?

OPINION

While the knowledge of our personal health is incredibly important, some things should not be tracked so inventively When it comes to heart rate, exercise, or blood pressure, the Oura ring can give valuable information–but this is to an extent, as it gets to a point where too much information can be harmful: it can lead to obsessive data tracking, turning what should be an initiative for better sleep into a source of unhealthy stress.

Sophomore and two-sport athlete Ashby Canales offered her insight on her own experience of owning an Oura Ring, as this month marks six months of her wearing it She states, “some people argue that knowing their sleep statistics and readiness can impact their day negatively, as sometimes the results are less than ideal. On the contrary, I find it very helpful to know how my body is doing that particular day.” Ashby also reflects that “as a two-sport athlete, knowing my readiness shows me how hard to push my body, and when it is absolutely necessary for me to give myself some rest” Her comments argue that despite some controversy about the ring, it benefits athletes and helps them easily analyze their well being In closing, Ashby talks about how “overall, having the Oura ring has helped [her] become more accountable with [her] health, and take [her] rest and restoration more seriously, so that [she] can perform at the top level as consistently as [she] can”

As technology continues to advance, health and fitness will become easier to track, with more in depth analysis on our sleep, readiness, heart rate and internal health More specifically, the opinions on the increasingly trendy “Oura Ring” vary. Some say that it is beneficial for athletes, while others contemplate its impacts on our mental health and paranoia Overall, it is important to be honest with our bodies and selves, and not completely depend on the information of technology

HOW STUDENTS SHOULD RETHINK THEIR USE OF AI

BY HANNAH EFREMOFF

Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly become a digital classmate for millions of students Tools such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and other generative AI platforms can summarize readings, explain calculus problems, generate practice quizzes, and even draft essays in seconds In many classrooms, AI is no longer a novelty, but an expectation However, as students embrace AI as a learning tool, a larger question arises: if AI is here to stay, how can students use it in a way that is both ethically and environment responsible?

There’s no denying the academic advantages AI offers students Research from organizations such as UNESCO emphasize AI’s potential to personalize learning, adapting explanations to a student’s pace and skill level Unlike traditional classrooms, AI tools can provide instant feedback 24/7 When students treat AI like a study partner–asking for practice problems, feedback on drafts, or clarification on confusing topics–it can strengthen understanding. Additionally, AI promotes accessibility for students with different learning needs, including speech-to-text, text simplification, translation tools, and adaptive tutoring systems These tools dismantle barriers that have historically limited educational access According to a 2023 report by the World Economic Forum, AI-powered tools can assist in closing achievement gaps when used intentionally and equitably Private tutoring is expensive and often inaccessible to lowerincome, but AI can act as a low-cost or free tutor. When used thoughtfully, AI can enhance critical thinking rather than replace it

On the other hand, AI certainly poses risks A 2023 survey from the Pew Research Center discovered a widespread concern among educators about students using AI to dishonestly complete assignments By using AI to solve problems, students bypass the very cognitive obstacle that stimulates learning. Overreliance is another danger Studies in cognitive psychology consistently show productive struggle generally improves long-term knowledge If students outsource their thinking to AI, they run the risk of weakening essential skills such as analysis, writing fluency, and problem solving Additionally, there are concerns regarding bias and misinformation Large models are trained among vast databases that contain inaccuracies and social partiality. Without critical evaluation skills, students risk accepting flawed information just to skip over the process of using their brain Therefore, responsible use must include transparency, citation when required, and treating AI as a complement rather than a substitute Human brains are so much more creative and complex than an AI model!

Students may hear a lot from teachers or peers about unethical AI use, but what is typically skipped over in these discussions is the environmental impact Training and operating large AI systems requires immense computational power. Water consumption is another hidden cost. Data centers that house and power AI models require cooling systems that use significant–and incredibly concerning– amounts of freshwater A study by researchers at the University of California, Riverside and University of Texas at Arlington found that generating information from AI can indirectly consume large amounts of water; and global AI demand could lead to billions of liters of water usage annually For a single student prompting an AI model, the environmental cost may seem negligible, but multiply that by millions of users and the impact becomes substantial Convenience, at scale, is not worth putting our home–Earth–at risk

Students today are often told to use AI because it is “the future”–some future, determined by computers!–and we may as well use it resourcefully Schools are integrating it into curriculums and employers expect familiarity with AI tools Refusing to use AI, as much as some of us may desire, may not be entirely realistic However, unquestioned convenience is dangerous People already recognize that small daily habits like excessive streaming, fast fashion, and food waste, contribute to our environmental footprint AI usage deserves the same scrutiny: just because a tool is digital does not mean it is physically absent.

The core issue is not whether students should use AI–it’s how Responsible AI consumption should rely on three main principles: academic integrity, cognitive responsibility, and environmental awareness Students should use AI for brainstorming, clarification, and feedback, rather than submitting AIgenerated work as their own (unless explicitly permitted) They should acknowledge or cite AI assistance when required and make sure to verify the information it provides Moreover, students should take responsibility for their own learning by attempting problems on their own prior to turning to AI for help They should use it to deepen understanding rather than avoid effort Environmental awareness is crucial as well, since AI systems require significant computing power and resources Students can play their part by avoiding repetitive prompts, combining questions instead of generating lots of outputs, and using AI intentionally rather than habitually These individual choices may seem small, but lifestyle shifts often begin with everyday habits So, if students can recognize that each AI query carries intellectual, ethical, and environmental implications, more mindful technology should become the norm

MEET THE EDITORS

Allana Wren is a junior at Providence Day, who joined the newspaper club in ninth grade That year, she wrote in the Opinion section of The Charger This year, she is excited to serve as Editor-in-Chief with an amazing team of writers and co-leaders. In addition to editing for The Charger, Allana loves to dance, volunteer, read, and travel Around campus, she is also involved in Pendragon leadership, GSD leadership, Charger Guides, Bright Blessings, Model UN, Sustainability Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, SPAM, National Art Honor Society, the Allegro Foundation, and more. Allana looks forward to another great year with The Charger!

Maddy Padmanabhan is a junior at Providence Day, former editor of The Charger’s Arts section, and the current Editor-in-Chief; this is her third year working with The Charger Outside of the newspaper, Maddy writes for the STEM Journal, composes creative writings, helps coach martial arts, serves as captain of her Mock Trial team, and is engaged in service in and outside of school, namely as the communications director of Baby Bundles at PD She has a passion for working with others and loves helping people improve their skills and development; this year, her goal as editor-inchief is to make sure writers can feel confident in their craft.

Cooper Kahn is a senior and is a Co-Editor-in-Chief for The Charger This is his first year as an EIC, and third and final year with The Charger. In addition to his work with the newspaper, Cooper is involved in Cross Country and Track, Men’s Acapella, and works as a Lifeguard during the summer Cooper’s hope in his final year with The Charger is to share articles that highlight the hard working Providence Day School community and increase the presence of The Charger throughout the entire PD community

Charlotte Doucleff is a junior at Providence Day School. This is her second year working with The Charger, and her first as an editor for the Arts section Outside of The Charger, Charlotte is the French Club president, Baby Bundles co-leader and an eleventh-grade representative for the GSD board. She also enjoys playing the violin and playing volleyball She looks forward to sharing the achievements and stories of students in the arts with the larger PD community

Drennan Shall is a sophomore at Providence Day School and serves as the Editor of Features for The Charger This is his second year on the newspaper staff, having written for the Features section with articles published in six issues He is passionate about amplifying student voices and highlighting the remarkable individuals within the Providence Day community Outside of journalism, Drennan is a competitive Paralympic swimmer, as well as a dedicated son, brother, and friend to all He is also actively involved in several school organizations and clubs, including the Honor Council, Charger Guides, and Seacrest Studios.

Harjan Singh is a sophomore at Providence Day and serves as an editor for The Charger’s Trending section. Beyond journalism, he is deeply involved in the arts, athletics, and science. Harjan has participated in numerous musical theater productions and competes in both cross country and track & field A passionate musician, he plays five different instruments, his favorite being the piano, and performs with the Upper School Chorus. In addition to his love for music, Harjan is dedicated to sustainability and astrophysics As a leader of the Upper School Sustainability Club, he collaborates with students across grade levels to help educate and inspire them to address global environmental challenges. His fascination with astrophysics began at an early age and continues to grow through his participation in various astronomical programs and events Above all, Harjan is thrilled to contribute as an editor for The Charger’s Trending section this year

KatieMae Sweeney is a junior at Providence Day who joined the newspaper in tenth grade This year, she is serving as the Trending Editor and loves keeping up with the latest stories and ideas shaping student life. Outside of the newspaper, KatieMae is a leader in Model UN, a member of the National Art Honor Society, Speech and Debate, and the Global Studies program In her free time, she enjoys painting and hiking

Maysan Segueni is a sophomore at Providence Day and the editor for The Charger’s Opinion section This is her second year working for The Charger, and she started off as a writer in the Trending section Outside of the newspaper, Maysan is a part of the GSD leadership team, AMEMSA, and Model UN. She also enjoys martial arts, musical theater, and all kinds of writing (especially fiction and poetry) She loves being a part of The Charger because she enjoys getting to work with other student writers, and her goal for the year is to inspire more students to refine their craft while also highlighting our campus.

Zach Kahn is a senior at Providence Day School, and as the editor for the Sports Section, it is his first year editing for The Charger. Outside of the newspaper, Zach led the school’s Criminal Justice Club and has participated in a few theatre productions He is excited about inspiring passion to write and journal about the latest in sports, both in and outside of PD.

Mr. Marcus Smith is the Head of the Upper School English Department, and is the faculty advisor for The Charger