Hello...
half way, half way
Photo by Keira Da
Photo by Keira Da
This edition is for reds only. Just kidding: blues and greens are cool too. Now, I'm waiting until the whole school takes the Myers-Briggs test (the "INTP" one). That way, we'll have sixteen personality types to bond over! What an upgrade.
This edition aims to recap January's events while also pointing toward future happenings. Read about Drama Club's new play-in-progress Higgins in Harlem, spring sports interviews, and budget cut consequences to FP.
My special thanks goes to Ms. Marzano--who always helps the paper with our proposals--and the various people I had the pleasure of eavesdropping on to write my article.
Newspaper design by Dina Chan, Sophia Dao, Leila Raekel Villapa, and Tina Thach
Behind the Curtains: Higgins in Harlem
By Camille Duncan
I walked into a hushed and dimly lit rehearsal space, though the hour’s work wasn’t going to be quiet at all. The intimacy allowed for an uninterrupted rehearsal, in which the actors were only involved in their scripts and each other; I could hear everything loud and clear. Unfortunately for me, I suspected they could also hear me loud and clear as I grabbed a chair from a neat stack in the empty cafeteria, Drama Club’s after-hours theater. Without needing to formally introducing myself, Mrs. Gray gestured me over and said that they were looking for more cast members. Rehearsal for Higgins in Harlem resumed normally.
The time is 1938 during the Harlem Renaissance era. There are two opposite groups: the wealthy Black society of Sugar Hill and the uneducated Blacks of Harlem struggling through the Great Depression. The play itself is critically-acclaimed; NBC Connecticut said it “delivers on its promise to be a fresh and entertaining reinvention of a theatrical masterpiece." Yet, like all successful art, its production must start somewhere.
Drama Club prepares with, evidently, a lot of hard work and patience. Unlike the final product, for now, there were minimal props (merely a table and a bowl of apples laid out) before a disheveled background from a previous set. Mrs. Gray sat in front of the stage, script and vision in hand as she coached the actors line-by-line: “Why does he react like that?” and “Why does she say that?” A few times, she hopped on stage to demonstrate a character’s mannerisms. It was all a step back from the polished act an audience expects to see.
Overall, the atmosphere was very pleasant. Even though everyone was engaged in their roles, the cast was still able to take breaks to laugh and have a fun time. I felt welcomed during my stay, not only by Ms. Gray, who was happy to allow me to report on the rehearsal, but also by the members as they waved goodbye and thanked me for stopping by.
All things considered, much effort and persistence goes into making a play. Our very own Drama Club (while not a big production studio by any means) is diligent, and I‘m excited for their interpretation of Higgins in Harlem.
Ms. Lee’s Book Talk
By Jaxon Harpel
Ms. Lee, FP’s Family and Community Partnership Coordinator, has written a book, titled Go on Lil’ Sista, Go On, about Black girls dreaming big. To promote her book, she plans to speak at two “Author Panel” events this month. The first panel takes place on Tuesday, February 13th from 5:30 – 6:30 PM at Parable Tacoma Bookstore. The second panel will be an online Zoom meeting on Wednesday, February 28th from 4:30 – 6:30pm. (Register for this event at https://calendar.piercecountylibrary.org/event/9613366.) If you’re interested in supporting a local author that you might know personally, then why not check the book out? It’s available to buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Go-Lil-Sista-Bonita-Lee-ebook/dp/B0BS63GMCP.
Ms. Lee’s Book Talk
By Jaxon Harpel
Ms. Lee, FP’s Family and Community Partnership Coordinator, has written a book, titled Go on Lil’ Sista, Go On, about Black girls dreaming big. To promote her book, she plans to speak at two “Author Panel” events this month. The first panel takes place on Tuesday, February 13th from 5:30 – 6:30 PM at Parable Tacoma Bookstore. The second panel will be an online Zoom meeting on Wednesday, February 28th from 4:30 – 6:30pm. (Register for this event at https://calendar.piercecountylibrary.org/event/9613366.) If you’re interested in supporting a local author that you might know personally, then why not check the book out? It’s available to buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Go-Lil-Sista-Bonita-Lee-ebook/dp/B0BS63GMCP.
C-Team Benched For Good?
By Michael Eb
Amid an impending district-wide budget crisis, a coach on campus fears C-Team athletics will be cut from our sports offerings.
“You need C-Team to build a program,” the coach said last Thursday, who sees C-Team as an opportunity for budding but unready players (often Freshmen) to develop their chops before moving to JV or Varsity. Without an entry level, these athletes would have less playtime on JV, be cut, or ride the bench—many wouldn’t come back, all the same.
Because most C-Teams travel separately from JV or Varsity, use different refs, and play by modified set-ups, they’re an extra expense to the district and seem prime for snipping. (And to maintain fairness, C-Team removals may be across the board, not sport-by-sport.)
In the coming months, the district will have to make some difficult decisions, some more consequential than others. Teacher cuts may be a pang felt at FP, but the potential of no more C-Teams will rock the community at-large.
Art by Ellie Elliott
Art by Ellie Elliott
FP Teachers Concerned About Budget Cuts
By Darren Ho
A thousand dollars, take it to leave it. That was the bonus payment the district offered all FP teachers who agreed to resign at the end of this year. It’s a move to soften the inevitable teacher cuts as the school transitions to a six-period day and as the district manages a soon-to-be deflated budget. But as the district continues a non-confrontational ploy (they’re hoping teachers will leave on their own before being forced out), FP teachers are left in the dark about who, exactly, is in danger of losing their jobs if the numbers are still too high come May.
In a staff-wide email, FP’s union representative echoed disappointment in the district’s lack of transparency regarding any official terminations. According to this memo, although Superintendent Goodpaster was “optimistic” that he’d communicate early in the school year, teachers haven’t received clear updates even into second semester. The wait has prompted some to question whether to play the odds or just quit ahead of time. For the unlucky who do end up being cut, this months-long standstill leaves less time to find new positions at other districts, which usually hire at this time of year.
When it comes to staff survivorship, seniority is the deciding factor. First- and second-year teachers (fresh out of college) are first on the chopping block, but the pickings aren’t as straightforward, say, for teachers who have experience educating at other schools but are new to FP or new to departments within FP. So far, the district has not offered further explanation about these specifics. Another twist is that not every affected teacher will be let go. Others who are certified to also teach middle school may be fortunate enough to stay employed inside the district—but moved to Ford or Keithley. (At the thought of being transferred to a middle school, some teachers said they might as well look for another job.)
The email ended with a plea for staff members to individually email Principal Marzano, acknowledging that “putting pressure on her puts pressure on the district.” In a follow-up response, Marzano relayed Goodpaster’s reassurance that a task force was making staffing recommendations and that natural turnover would help lower the number of teachers without cuts.
The Tuffy Tribune will continue to monitor this story and report on further developments.
C-Team Benched For Good?
By Michael Eb
Amid an impending district-wide budget crisis, a coach on campus fears C-Team athletics will be cut from our sports offerings.
“You need C-Team to build a program,” the coach said last Thursday, who sees C-Team as an opportunity for budding but unready players (often Freshmen) to develop their chops before moving to JV or Varsity. Without an entry level, these athletes would have less playtime on JV, be cut, or ride the bench—many wouldn’t come back, all the same.
Because most C-Teams travel separately from JV or Varsity, use different refs, and play by modified set-ups, they’re an extra expense to the district and seem prime for snipping. (And to maintain fairness, C-Team removals may be across the board, not sport-by-sport.)
In the coming months, the district will have to make some difficult decisions, some more consequential than others. Teacher cuts may be a pang felt at FP, but the potential of no more C-Teams will rock the community at-large.
FP Teachers Concerned About Budget Cuts
By Darren Ho
A thousand dollars, take it to leave it. That was the bonus payment the district offered all FP teachers who agreed to resign at the end of this year. It’s a move to soften the inevitable teacher cuts as the school transitions to a six-period day and as the district manages a soon-to-be deflated budget. But as the district continues a non-confrontational ploy (they’re hoping teachers will leave on their own before being forced out), FP teachers are left in the dark about who, exactly, is in danger of losing their jobs if the numbers are still too high come May.
In a staff-wide email, FP’s union representative echoed disappointment in the district’s lack of transparency regarding any official terminations. According to this memo, although Superintendent Goodpaster was “optimistic” that he’d communicate early in the school year, teachers haven’t received clear updates even into second semester. The wait has prompted some to question whether to play the odds or just quit ahead of time. For the unlucky who do end up being cut, this months-long standstill leaves less time to find new positions at other districts, which usually hire at this time of year.
When it comes to staff survivorship, seniority is the deciding factor. First- and second-year teachers (fresh out of college) are first on the chopping block, but the pickings aren’t as straightforward, say, for teachers who have experience educating at other schools but are new to FP or new to departments within FP. So far, the district has not offered further explanation about these specifics. Another twist is that not every affected teacher will be let go. Others who are certified to also teach middle school may be fortunate enough to stay employed inside the district—but moved to Ford or Keithley. (At the thought of being transferred to a middle school, some teachers said they might as well look for another job.)
Art by Ellie Elliott
Art by Ellie Elliott
The email ended with a plea for staff members to individually email Principal Marzano, acknowledging that “putting pressure on her puts pressure on the district.” In a follow-up response, Marzano relayed Goodpaster’s reassurance that a task force was making staffing recommendations and that natural turnover would help lower the number of teachers without cuts.
The Tuffy Tribune will continue to monitor this story and report on further developments.
DECA Competition Day: Winning More Than a Medal
As Told By Jasmine Pulido
“We will now be announcing your state qualifiers for 2024!” This sentence is what we were all waiting for. I managed to suppress the butterflies in my stomach, but it came back the moment I sat down facing the stage. There were so many people you couldn’t help but feel intimidated. Of course everyone was excited, but you could tell we were all thinking the same thing, “What if we can’t compete with these people, it’s our first year?” While everyone was nervous, we knew deep down that no matter what, we needed to support our fellow members. The competition wasn’t about winning or losing, it was about showing up, proving that we’re more than just “newbies”, and more importantly, being there for each other.
As competition time got closer, we goofed around a bit to take some of the stress off but mainly we helped each other prep. When it was time for someone to compete, everyone wished them good luck and the moment they returned we eagerly asked how they did and congratulated them for their effort.
Once everyone competed and had taken a seat, the crowd grew quiet with anticipation. There are 59 categories, so as qualifiers were being called for events we didn’t participate in, we just became more eager to hear our results. Finally, they called Apparel & Accessories. While most people in the room clapped as names were called, our chapter was silent. That is, until we heard our first winner announced. “HONESTY LOPEZ-HOPKINS!” was shouted by the speaker. We erupted with joy, flew out of our seats, and began to cheer. As we watched Honesty walk on that stage a rush of pride came over everyone. No one knew how the rest of the awards would go, but even if no one else qualified, we would still be overjoyed because one of us made it. This feeling of excitement and pride was maintained for the rest of the event as more FP names were called. Raul, Sofia, me, Lindsay, Boston and Jordan’s names soon followed, and the chapter’s excitement never faltered. Every time, Shivneil would spring from his seat for a standing ovation and the rest of the chapter would cheer at the top of their lungs.
Hearing my category get called was nerve-racking. When the announcer called my name, I was on an emotional rollercoaster filled with nerves and excitement. As I looked around the crowd I saw my fellow chapter members, all with huge smiles on their faces. My fear melted as I saw everyone rooting for me. It was clear that I had full support from everyone no matter what. The announcer started with ninth place and worked his way up.
As names were called and contestants walked off the stage, I couldn’t stop the smile from plastering itself on my face. As the second-place winner left the stage, Miya was already cheering. “In first place, JASMINE PULIDO!” I walked over to accept my medal and Miya was jumping up and down. Walking down the aisle back to my seat, Mr. Commander met me for a high five and Ms. Disney had rose from her seat, beaming, just as they did for every qualifier. Hearing the genuine enthusiasm from my friends was even sweeter than getting first. If our first competition taught us anything, it's that our DECA chapter is more than a group of kids occasionally pretending to be accountants. It’s a group of students who have your back no matter what. It’s sharing accomplishments with those who care about your success, and it’s rooting for those that care about you. Participating in a DECA competitive event is a huge accomplishment by itself and none of us could have done it without each other. I’m proud of everyone’s hard work and I know we’ll do great at SCDC!
Interview with Kimberly
By Tina Thach
Tina Thach caught up with Girls Bowling superstar Kimberly “The Thunder” Thach, who placed 11th overall in state, to get her postseason thoughts.
On a scale of 1-10, how nervous were you?
On a scale of 1-10 of how nervous I was, I would say a 5 because I’ve been in an environment where there is a lot of people in a tournament before since the last two years, our bowling team made it to state together. But this year, it was just me who made it and so, I don’t have my teammates there to support me.
What did you do to prepare?
What I have done to prepare was just going to practice and trying to be consistent with my throws.
Who were some people that motivated you?
The person that motivated me was my dad because it’s one of the first times he ever watched me bowl in a tournament, and he even took the day off of work to watch me. So I wanted to make him proud.
What have you learned about yourself?
What I learned about myself from this experience is that I can do anything I put my mind to and that I have room to grow since last year, I placed 31st in state, but this year, I placed 11th, and I hope to get top 8 next year.
Anyone you would like to shout out?
Someone I would like to give a shoutout to is my Coach Melvard because he makes practice something I look forward to as he makes it fun and energizing, and I truly appreciate every hour he dedicates to our team, especially when it means time away from his family. The sacrifices and commitment do not go unnoticed.
Spring Sports Interviews
By Camille Duncan
Ahead of spring season, Camille Duncan interviewed several spring sports athletes about their preparation and aspirations.
Eduardo Mejia-Bravo – Boys Soccer (Senior)
How do you train for your sport?
I train both on and off the pitch. Being fit is key to success on the pitch. A ton of workouts provided by coaches and being self-disciplined.
What are your hopes for this spring?
My hopes are for our team to continue to our goal and reach state once again. We hope to go farther this year and bring back a trophy.
What do you hope to improve on from last spring?
I hope to improve myself, discipline for mistakes.
What is most important to having a successful season?
What’s most important to having a successful season is being able to communicate with our teammates and understand our coaches. Team bonding really helps our presence on the pitch. Self-discipline and consistency is key individually for the season.
What motivates you to train for and continue your sport?
What motivates me is the passion and love for my sport. It helps get things off my mind and relax myself. It is such a beautiful blessing to be able to play futbol.
Coach Nguyen – Girls Tennis
How do you mentally prepare your athletes for the upcoming season?
We do a lot of training and drills that work on certain skills and to try having fun as a team and prepared for the season.
What are your hopes for this spring?
I hope that we make a lot of memories and have fun, I just want to make sure all the athletes are out there getting better and hopefully winning matches.
What do you hope to improve on from last spring?
I hope that the girls are improving overall and that we are building an overall chemistry as a team this year, especially since all the girls will be traveling all together this year, so I really hope we bring the whole team aspect together.
What is most important to having a successful season?
I think the most important thing is to have coaches that preach rules while also being loose and free. Just a good vibe and having fun every day, having a good attitude and sportsmanship on the court ‘cause at the end of the day, we’re just here for fun.
How do you plan to improve as a coach compared to last year?
I hope that I can learn a lot from the girls. I know this is my first year being a girls [Varsity] coach, and they’ve been used to the old coach for however many years. I’m gonna have to learn and make sure I’m doing things that make them happy and make them want to be here.
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