Editorial: Teens of the Modern Era

I’m not a fan of stereotypes in any form, but stereotypes that affect me directly make me angriest of all. In our modern world, there are stereotypes for everything, but one that I have never liked is the adults’ view of the modern, computer-age teenager.

                We’re lazy and always tired, but we love to stay up late. We are moody and react harshly to the littlest things. We watch too much mindless television, and read mindless books that are not appropriate (if we ever read at all). We never think anything through before doing it, and never think about how things affect others. We never agree to anything adults say because we are naturally rebellious. We don’t like taking orders because they restrict our naturally rebellious nature. And, worst of all, we speak in code and use “like” in almost everything we say. There you have it: the modern teen in a nutshell, according to comments made by some parents and other adults.

                The behavior of teenagers has always been a popular study for some psychologists. Scientific proof backs up most of the emotional swings, and a lot of our conditions have to do with physical development- including development of the brain. So, there are reasons for the way we are, but what about the other things that we are reprimanded for, like the constant presence of cell phones, and the disgusting use of the English language?

                It seems that teenagers have always been the subject of many complaints from adults. In past decades, teens have been known to take part in crazy peace protests, listen to vulgar music, rebel against the common view, and more. With each generation, the complaints change. In the technological age, teens are known for having their eyes glued to a computer or phone screen caring little for the world outside their social bubbles. And it’s true; just as the teens of the 1950s had their rock-and-roll, we have our cell phones. And it is true that the English language has been affected by the technological age; abbreviations such as “OMG” and “TTYL” have become part of the normal vocabulary for the modern teen. Or, at least, if they don’t use them, they know what they mean.

For the children of the computer age, technology makes our whole world go round. Our idea of “living on the edge” is a week without the common conveniences of smart phones, laptops, and television. But how is this any different from any other generation of teens who are the product of the world around them? The rebellious rock-and-rollers of the 1950s, the hippies of the 1960s, the punk rockers of the 1980s, and even the American patriots of the 1770s; teenagers have always been the product of the world around them. The world we grow up in is always carried on with us and always changed.

                So, yes, it’s true: I do have a cell phone that I use to text my friends. I have a Facebook profile that I update regularly. While texting, I do use abbreviations such as “OMG” and “TTYL”. When I get home from school, I often get on the computer and check out the internet. And yes, I have that annoying habit of saying “like” too much. And, like all other teenagers, I have my emotional flaws and imbalances. Stereotypical? Yes. New? Not really. The technologically-savvy teen is just the modern hippie, or the punk rocker, or the patriot.

- Katie Brodt, Editor-in-chief

First (and only) Swim Meet

The Indian Creek swim team was a motley crew of people from both sexes and all grades. On February 9, 2011 the swim team had its first and only swim meet of the season against St. Mary’s. The fledgling swim team had been practicing since November 8^th for the event. Because this year is the first year Indian Creek offered swimming, the meet was unofficial and informal. It was also marked with disorganization and tardiness. The St. Mary’s swim team showed up at 3:05 and filtered in, all of them arriving on deck by around 3:15. The last event had to be canceled because the pool was only reserved until 4 PM.

Despite the setbacks, the meet was still fun and a good opportunity to showcase the improvements the swimmers had made over the season. Ed Seidewitz, the assistant coach, thought that the meet went over well, even though it was extremely disorganized. “I think the swim meet was an enjoyable opportunity for our team to compete against other kids. It succeeded at that; though it was too bad we didn't have more time so everyone would have been able to swim more. It wasn't a formal meet.”

He was glad that they at least got to compete, because, for a while, there was some uncertainty to whether there would be any meets at all. “It would have been a shame to have trained all season and not have been able to compete at all. So having a meet was definitely a good finale. Hopefully next year we will be able to have a more regular schedule of competitive meets.”

Looking to the future, he says that, despite the fact that the team is losing many talented seniors, there is still hope for the team. “I think we have some underclassmen who are quite good and others who could be very good if they want to be. And even the team members with the least experience going in improved a lot during the season. How strong the team is will depend a lot on how strong the swimmers want to make it next year. But everyone should remember that the team is still in its building phase!” Next year, the team plans to have more swim meets and may even get a new coach!

-Kathryn Seidewitz, Managing Editor

To Add or Drop?

Do you have too many classes, too many activities, and not enough time? Or in contrast, do you have too much time on your hands and feel the need to really be challenged? Well, whatever your situation is, you are in luck! With the new semester, comes the ability to add or drop classes.

                Adding and dropping classes can actually be quite a lengthy process, which requires a few approvals and signatures. Also, before you begin the add /drop process, make sure you have a very good reason about why you should drop or add any particular class. First, students need to obtain an add/drop form from Mr. McCormick’s office. After receiving signatures of the teachers of the classes you are dropping and adding, the college counselor, Mrs. Shrum, Mr. McCormick, and a parent must also approve the changes. Mr. Connolly is the last and major decision breaker when it comes to the adding /dropping process.

                Senior Andrew Judson’s rationale for dropping consumer finance was to gain more free time.  “I wasn't having problems with the class, but I just needed some extra time to catch up on work and breathe a little easier. So far, it's worked out really well for me, and I can get all my homework done faster and have more free time at home." While Senior Samantha Peart wanted more time to focus on her other school subjects as well as activities. “I dropped AP physics my junior year because I felt overloaded with my full schedule including: three AP classes, student government responsibilities, sports. and other extracurriculars. I felt I needed a lot more time in my schedule to really study hard so I could be successful in this course, and I didn't have any.”

                Just as a reminder- make sure your teachers know, prior to your first class with them, that you have added their subject. Really, they do not like surprises. Also, to be wary of is that you are not dropping classes that are required for graduation. These include government, four literature credits, and at least three mathematics and science credits.

-Kim Giegerich, Staff Writer

How Far We've Come: Upper School Arts/Sports Night

Friday, February 4, was a truly eventful day at Indian Creek Upper School.  Many talents were displayed including the performing and visual arts along with athletics.  ICUS’ chorus and orchestra present their musical talents, the many artists showcased their creative work, and the Boys Varsity Basketball team played to win.

Because of the recent snow, the original winter arts night, which was scheduled for January 28, was canceled and rescheduled for February 4 during school.  Following the assembly schedule, many of the students involved in the chorus and orchestra were anxious to show off their hard work and ability.  Not only was the student body there to support their friends, but the parents were also invited to come and see their children.

The chorus sang a couple songs, one of which was actually from the hit musical series, Glee.  Some students including Becky Kinder, Robby Montgomery, and Yoshi Guzman had solos and duets in that number.  One song was particularly interesting where all of the girls successfully sang a capella.  Other acts included a musical number performed by Angelina Lewis (cello), Amanda Amodio, (violin) and Katelyn Peditto (flute). 

Some students, however, did not appreciate the gifts of their classmates.  Some were talking among themselves throughout the concert to the extent that some parents complained.  These students were asked by Mr. McCormick to write a letter apologizing for their actions, though many did not actually do this.  Mr. Connolly also commented on the problem Monday, February 7, during D day school meeting.

Following the musical performances, many people were invited to come and check out the artwork displayed in the Grindrod Atrium and Coleman Gallery after school.  It was incredible to see; there is an immense amount of artistic talent within ICUS.  To top the day off, the basketball team had their senior night game where they crushed Park School.  It was an action-packed day; really showing how far ICUS has come in the few short years it has been open.

-by Kiera Henderson, Staff Writer

Indian Creek Announces New Head of School

These past few months, the faculty of Indian Creek have been interviewing candidates for the position of Head of School. Each candidate had time to tour the school, meet some students from both campuses, and have a meetings with faculty, staff, and parents. On January 24, the search came to a close when the Board of Trustees of Indian Creek announced that Richard Branson had been appointed to the position.

                Mr. Branson attended the University of Oregon, where he received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Journalism. He has taught several grades in subjects including AP Literature. In 2005, Mr. Branson left the country to teach at the International School of Curitiba in Brazil. Currently, he is the headmaster of The Hokkaido International School in Sapporo, Japan. The staff of Hokkaido praised him for having good communication skills, inspiring teachers, and providing them with a clear vision of the school; all traits that we value at our school as well.

                The students, parents, and faculty alike seemed to really enjoy Mr. Branson’s visit, and he was able to meet with groups and answer questions. Student groups decided that they were, “really enthusiastic about him, and liked him a lot.” Apparently, Mr. Branson was the only Head of School candidate who, while interviewing a group of middle school students, was able to help the kids to branch away from their prepared questions and engage in a relaxed, real conference session. At a reception here at the Upper School for faculty and parents, where they noted that he, “understands the challenges that we face such as two campuses, development, and competition,” and that he, “seemed wise and intelligent, with a passion for learning.” With strong positive feedback from all members of the ICS society, it seemed clear that Mr. Branson would fit our school community perfectly.

                Personally, Mr. Branson is married and has three children. He and his wife are returning to live in the United States after six years of living abroad. He is excited to begin his new role, stating in a public letter that he is, “thrilled to become a part of the Creek community.”

                When Mr. Branson officially becomes the Head of School on July 6, 2011, he will be replacing Interim Head Lila Lohr, who took on the position after the retirement of Anne Chambers, who founded Indian Creek and was the Head for over thirty years. Expect to see him around the campuses this spring, when he returns to take other tours and get to know more Creekers.

-Katie Brodt, Editor-in-chief