The “Thirteen Reasons Why” Controversy
Kayla Sakayan/Natalie Ugenti, Opinion Writers
May 18, 2017
The new Netflix series “Thirteen Reasons Why” has brought up the need for discussion in the teenage and adult communities. If you are one of the many who have watched this empowering, yet controversial hit show, you are aware of the strong emotional impact of the show’s content. By addressing multiple...
Why Being Deep Is Hard
Sean Duclay, Contributing Writer
May 2, 2017
Since the very first communities have been established by humans, societies have formed their own ideologies and culture. From the social pyramid of Egypt, the Indian caste system, and the hierarchical social classes of Rome, to the modern day social classes in the United States, societies have been for...
The Truth About Common Core
May 2, 2017
The topic of Common Core standards has been a prominent issue in schools all across America since it was introduced. Many students, no matter how young they may be, have had to use this approach to solving mathematics and reading comprehension questions. With such rigid standards being implemented int...
La La Land vs. Moonlight: Another Award Show Mixup
Rebecca LaManna, Opinion Editor
May 2, 2017
After the countless racist accusations directed at the 2016 Oscars, this year’s annual awards night was certainly a hot topic. Many movies that showcased people of color, as well as the actors and actresses who starred in them, were nominated numerous times at the 2017 Oscars. Some of the movies showcasing...
How to get A Date for Valentine’s Day (100% Foolproof)
Meghan Italo, Opinion Writer
February 14, 2017
It’s that time of the year again when all of the stores designate an aisle for heart shaped red and pink candy boxes and let’s face it, you feel left out. It seems like everyone else has a Valentine that he or she can post cute pictures with and hug in the hallway, so it’s about time that you jump on the bandwagon too because that’s the only reason to start a relationship. The best option for relationship advice is obviously to consult an online article, so here it is. I’ve compiled a few of my best tips, as well as some advice from other students. You’re welcome, and have fun on the Valentine’s Day date that this 100% fool-proof article is guaranteed to get you.
Read more »Social Media: Friend or Faux?
Kayla Sakayan and Natalie Ugenti
February 11, 2017
Filed under Opinion
Wikipedia defines social media as “Computer-mediated technologies that allow the creating and sharing of information, ideas, career interests and other forms of expression via virtual communities and networks.” It has become a worldwide phenomenon, with many different platforms existing to fulfill...
Are Art and Music Unappreciated at Walt Whitman?
Jasmine Haug, Opinion Writer
January 7, 2017
Filed under Opinion
Do high schools offer enough support for art and music? Everyone at school has his or her own niche and talent, whether it be in music, drawing, athletics or theater. However, there is debate over whether or not the arts and the athletic programs receive equal amounts of funding and representation in the district.
Read more »Hillary Clinton vs. Donald Trump
Kayla Sakayan and Natalie Ugenti
January 7, 2017
Filed under Opinion
The 2016 presidential election has definitely been one to remember. Supporters of either Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump have been unable to fully comprehend the results of this election. Opposing views, especially moral ones, have driven the controversy behind it all, creating even more tension in an already politically divided nation. With all the accusations made this year, some voters were overwhelmed and did not know who they could trust to be the next president, others were extremely supportive of their parties. These two forces clashed this election year, causing a major struggle in the fight for the White House.
Read more »Students Grading Teachers?
Jasmine Haug, Opinion Writer
January 7, 2017
Filed under Opinion
How would you feel if you could grade your science or math teacher? Teachers today grade their students on homework assignments and tests, but what if students were able to take a survey to grade their teachers? The quality of educators varies from state to state; therefore, by having these student evaluations it can help ensure that they are getting the education they deserve. Giving students the opportunity to evaluate their own teachers will provide constructive criticism on classroom instruction.
Read more »High School Foreign Language Classes: Are They Worth it?
Meghan Italo, Opinion Writer
January 3, 2017
Filed under Opinion
I have heard many students say their foreign language classes are not important. Some say it is unnecessary and does not do enough to help them learn another language; they would rather focus on the classes that really matter. How true are these statements? Are language classes more beneficial than these Whitman students think?
Read more »Halloween Costumes: Appropriate for School?
Meghan Italo, Opinion Writer
November 6, 2016
Filed under Opinion
Dressing up for Halloween can be a lot of fun since it is the one day of the year when people can wear ridiculous costumes and not be judged for it. With the recent clown scares happening across the country, many schools have considered banning Halloween costumes all together. Are the schools justified in banning the outfits? Is there a limit to what should be banned?
Read more »Freshman Year
Kayla Sakayan and Natalie Ugenti
November 6, 2016
Filed under Opinion
Freshman year; the year when 9th graders take a leap of faith in their educational careers and dive into the new adventures of high school. For most, this can be scary, considering freshman are no longer the big fish in the little pond. From meeting new people to fostering old friendships, high school can be a rollercoaster filled with ups and downs.
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