COLUMN: Are you there summer? Its us, Stanton students

By RACHEL JAFFE, Administration Beat

When school starts, there is an initial rush of excitement. The anxiety over what to wear on the first day, or who is in your physics class, overwhelms the basic fact that this is Stanton College Prep and two weeks into the year, what you wear will be trumped by two AP chemistry, an essay analyzing Keats and the romantic movement, and a full page calculus proof. As a recently promoted slave to education, the new duties and responsibilities of the school year seem like an attackable task that can be completed with little strain. Of course, to the calculator and pen wielding demi-Gods of scholasticism, the ease of Stanton is their truth. But to most others, it is a laugh evoking thought.

After friends reunite and loves are rekindled after a two-month hiatus, the outside attraction to school is mostly lost. The only remaining factors keeping students at school is grades and activities. The first semester exhausts a majority of the student population and after winter break the vigor only declines. Especially as a freshman and sophomore, college appears only in your peripherals; students often get off track from their long-term goals, mostly when the weather warms up and being outside is more appealing than an hour and half lecture on economics. The motivation for school seems to die a little each quarter, collapsing tragically in the last quarter upon arrival back from spring break, which feels more like an evil tease.

“Spring fever” is a common disease that breaks out rapidly in most schools around the end of the school year; however, individuals who attend schools like Stanton are at higher risk for infection. As students enter the last quarter, they flip through their agendas in horror, realizing with fear that summer is a whole nine weeks away. For many, that awful truth causes students to lose motivation completely and spend every class period daydreaming of summer plans. 10^th grader Nora Yazgi says she is just ready for summer, “School work has just been so much this year, and I can’t stand it anymore. I’m so looking forward to summer.” By the time progress reports are issued, maintaining the sought after grades that were received in the previous three quarters, loses all prevalence as swimsuit season arrives.

The truth is that we only have two weeks left, and then summer is here. It is finally the few days’ students have been dreaming about since, well, the first day of school. So, Stanton students, celebrate. And study, of course, because exams have also arrived. At least we can trust that summer is trailing right behind them, our prayers have been answered.

COLUMN: Staying Focused

By HAMZA AJMAL, Academic Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)- Summer break is nearly two weeks away, and when the end of school is near students tend to relax and divert their attention to other things besides school and work. Though students should look forward to summer break, The last thing anyone wants to do right now is to not do their homework and sleep in class, these simple lessons and assignments might be the difference of a passing or failing grade.

End of Course Exams are now the main focus of school for the next week. Though students cannot necessarily study for their EOC’s, they can review notes they have taken throughout the year.

Although studying can be beneficial to a student, they should not consume themselves in cramming for EOC’s or Finals. Students should complete all homework assignments and projects if they are assigned, these little assignments add up and can make a big difference.

Monday through Thursday of the last week of school is final exam testing, Friday is reserved for final exam retakes. If students have further questions they can visit the Stanton web site :

http://www.stantoncollegeprep.org/central/

STORY: AP Essay Grading

By LEAH PARKER, Academics Beat Reporter

Jacksonville, Fla. (SCPDA) -- Now that APs are over, many teachers from across the country are leaving for the AP grading conference, to read hundreds after hundreds of student essays.

If a high school teacher has taught for three years, or one semester for a college professor, they can be invited to the College Board conference to help grade essays in their taught subject. If the teacher does well, they are likely to be invited back. It is a great professional advancement for teachers.

While on average, a teacher may grade 2,000 essays in one week, “It’s not about speed, it’s about accuracy,” says AP European history teacher Ana Shepard, who says, as a slow reader, that she grades around 1,000.

Though it’s possible for a teacher to grade their own students’ essays, it is highly unlikely to happen when dealing with the hundreds of thousands of essays needing to be graded. If a teacher receives a student’s essay, and recognizes the handwriting, then they swap with someone else. However after a few hundred essays teachers don’t even think about whose their grading. “I kind of go googly-eyed,” said Shepard, “You don’t really think about it.”

Teachers are demanded to read every word of every essay, even the off topic ones. Shepard says that the most memorable essay she graded was a full synopsis of the Twilight book series.

COLUMN: Ten Sports Cut for 2011-2012 School Year

By JONATHAN KEMP, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- At the end of last week 10 sports were cut in Duval County as a result of recent budget shortfalls.

The sports cut were:

• Boy's cross country
• Girl's cross country
• Boy's golf
• Girl's golf
• Boy's lacrosse
• Girl's lacrosse
• Slow-pitch softball
• Wrestling
• Boy's tennis
• Girl's tennis

Stanton has all of these sports, so many students will be impacted by this. A total of 2,054 athletes will be affected by these cuts all around Duval County. Many are wondering why sports such as cross country and golf are being cut since there really is not much cost to those sports. $731,598 will be saved because of these cuts, but that number is relatively small when you consider that the county has a $90.9 million deficit. 


John Fox, the athletic director over all of Duval Country, said to the Florida Times-Union, "A local PGA Tour player reached out to [help] us."


There have been reports of PGA Tour players looking to help Duval County, as well as member of the United States Tennis Association. Articles have been written and people have been calling on country clubs to help out, as well as the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Jacksonville Suns. I have heard a lot of people saying that if football or baseball were cut, the Jaguars and the Suns would be on the school board's doorstep; but since neither were cut, neither are trying to help out.


The simplest way to solve this is to make sports pay-to-play. Many counties, even states, already do this. Students would pay enough to get their equipment, coach, and transportation. If Duval County would adopt this policy, then there would be no need to cut these sports. From the looks of it though, Duval County has not seemed to even consider this option.


The sports that are safe from being cut, as of now, are:

• Football
• Boy's basketball
• Girl's basketball
• Baseball
• Softball
• Volleyball
• Boy's soccer
• Girl's soccer
• Boy's track
• Girl's track
• Boy's swimming
• Girl's swimming
• Bowling
• Girl's weightlifting
• Girl's flag football

For many the hope is that these 10 sports will be saved, but as of right now it is not looking that good for next year.

STORY: Library Closed After Thursday

By ALEXIS BROWN, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) – Starting May 26, 2011, the media center will no longer be open after school due to the cut of activity busses.

“When the last bell rings all students should leave and call your parents,” said Noma Hayward.

All students will now leave at 2:40 by bus, parent, or car unless they are staying after school for an activity. If students are participating in an after school activity their ride should be waiting immediately after the club or activity ends. This may be the last activity bus coming to Stanton because of budget cuts. All students should be prepared to find a ride for the 2011-2012 school years because the school is thinking about charging parents when late. “I stay here everyday until at least 6:00. It’s ridiculous how parents think this is a free daycare,” said Hayward.

COLUMN: Cutting Sports

By KARMEN HUTCHINSON, Administration Beat Reporter

Due to the recent budget cuts, a select few of Stanton’s sports may be cut. Although nothing is yet final, the students who participate in golf, cross country, bowling, slow pitch softball, junior varsity soccer, wrestling, lacrosse and tennis are worried.

There are many students who don’t feel that these sports are as important as football and basketball. As a student athlete, I feel that all sports are equally important. I play basketball and volleyball, and i also run track. Even though my sports are safe, I understand the fear of losing the sport I love. If basketball were to be cut, I would be devastated, just like the students who are involved in the sports that may be cut.

Just because these sports are not as popular as the others doesn’t mean they don’t matter. Taking away these sports would upset a great number of students. These sports also hold winning titles that past teams have worked hard to get. None of the sports should be cut. Instead of cutting some of our teams, the junior varsity teams should be taken away. This would enable all of the sports to stay.

Story: Cutting Buses

By TORY ROTH, Administration Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)--The prospect of cutting busing for magnet schools is a very real threat to Stanton College Prep students.

The Duval County School Board has a $75-$89 million budget shortfall to make up for next year. The school board has already announced plans to cut cross country, golf, lacrosse, slow-pitch softball, and tennis. The cutting of magnet school busing is another way the district hopes to make up for the shortfall.

According to the DCPS website, phasing out “secondary magnet transportation,” over a period of to 3-4 years is second on a list of budget cuts. This would save the district $3 million annually.

Students and parents can participate in the discussion by attending community meetings to voice their concerns over the proposed budget cuts.

STORY: Caps and Gowns Galore

By JOC'LENE SCARLETT, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. today, all Stanton seniors in good standing are going to receive their caps, gowns, and tickets.

While the rest of the school is testing, the seniors are gathered in the school auditorium to get their graduation caps and gowns along with tickets for friends and family.

Graduation will be held on June 6 at 4:00 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Center.

STORY: The Schedule for the Last week of School

By TAYLOR GALLOWAY, Academic Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) - The last week of the 2010-2011 school year is quickly approaching, which means that final exams and crazy schedules are almost here as well, and many students don’t know what time school gets out each day and when their finals are.

Monday through Thursday (June 6-9) school gets out at 12:25 p.m and 11:40 a.m on Friday, June 10.

The finals for the last week of school are as followed:
Monday: 1st and 2nd period electives
Tuesday: English and History
Wednesday: 3rd and 4th period electives
Thursday: Math and Science
Friday: Make up’s

STORY: Students Needed for Software Sessions Next Year

By KATHRYN MCMULLEN, Media Center Beats Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- The Media Center is looking for technological kids who can host peer-to-peer software classes next year.

“We need students who will teach their peers about Powerpoint, Garageband, and we may be getting some design software,” said Nancy Murrey, the Stanton librarian.

Hosting these informal sessions would give students service hours.

If anyone is interested, please contact Murrey at murreyn@duvalschools.org

STORY: Summer Volleyball Back on Courts

By LAURA GERBEC, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)-- Summer volleyball training begins June 1 with a practice session in the gymnasium.

The Stanton summer volleyball league will hold a practice session June 1 and 2, and from there will only accept 18 junior girls to play with the varsity girls over the vacation. The practice is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., but the girls need to be aware that there are no activity buses to take them home.

To participate in the summer practice, the girls must have their 2010-2011 sports physicals; all and any students are welcome, as long as they attend Stanton. After the initial practice, the 18 girls will be selected, but that does not guaranteed a spot on the upcoming school year's varsity team. All current varsity players must attend every practice.

"It helps to get to know the coaches and the team's plays," said Lindsey Emerson, a freshmen who will be returning to the summer league. "It gives you a better chance of making the team."

For more information, such as times and dates, which will vary by location, check the calendar online or contact Coach Benedict, who's number is found on the calendar. The cash for tee-shirts in June 7, and is $50.00.

STORY: Stanton Vs. Terry Parker Football game

By Durati Ahmed, Guidance Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)-- Stanton versus TerryParker football game is on Thursday, May 26.

The game will be at Terry Parker, and This will be the first time the Stanton Varsity Cheerleaders work together to show what they got.

STORY: Stanton defeats Terry Parker In Spring Football Game

By BRANDON GEORGE, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)-- The Stanton Blue Devils' football team defeated the Terry Parker Braves 42-36 on Thursday, May 26 at Terry Parker High School.

"We put a lot of work in, so we should be able to get something out of it," said freshman Junior Varsity player Jackson Story before the game.

The hard work paid off in the end, after the Blue Devils defeated the Braves 42-36.

The game provided the coaches and players with the ability to see what talent is present of the team and see which players show promise for the 2011-2012 season. Since it was a game that did not affect the team's record and is in the offseason, the coaches were able to see if current Junior Varsity and rising Varsity players are ready for the 2011-2012 season.

COLUMN: No Activity Busses

By KARMEN HUTCHINSON, Administration Beat Reporter

Due to budget cuts, the after-school activity buses are being cut for next year. These buses are used to transport students who participate in after-school activities or need to stay after school for other for other reasons. The students who ride these buses most likely have no other form of transportation available. Without the after-school buses, a number of students would be found with no way to get home.

Every day after school, there are only a few students who ride each bus. Instead of cutting the buses out completely, maybe the number of buses available could be reduced. It would also help if parking decals were offered to underclassmen who are of driving age. Something needs to be done. Our students cannot be left stranded.

COLUMN: Making A Name

By NICOLE DELOS REYES, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

In a place like Stanton where students of different backgrounds, different academic capabilities, and different places in the social order, it is hard to make a name for yourself. By making a name, I am talking about truly being involved in the Stanton community and have your name known by people for the range of things you have accomplished. While I was at the senior banquet, I realized that many students are not recognized for their hard work. I also thought about the importance of popularity and being the smartest—not only inside of school, but for a college application. Because Stanton is full of competent, motivated, and unique students, it is hard to stand out among them.

It is difficult to become a president of a club or president of a whole class because it all comes down to popularity. What happens to the new girl or boy who just transferred to Stanton, or the unpopular candidate who actually has useful plans for the class? More often than not, they do not get voted to become president, simply because of their place in the social order.

As for academics, it is difficult to become top in your class not because you are not smart, but simply because everyone is smart. There are the students who make straight A’s, the students who make A’s and B’s, and students who make grades lower than that. If our academic capabilities were purely based on percentiles or ranking, they would be largely misrepresented. My ranking in the senior class is 105 out of 315 students, and I have never made a “C” in my entire academic career. My weighted GPA is a 4.0, and my unweighted is a 3.5. I am in the 66 percentile of my class. It sounds bad when I put it that way, but in reality, it is not. I can only imagine the students who make even better grades that I do but are in 30, 40, or 50 percentile regardless of their academic capabilities. Some colleges look solely at percentiles. Just imagine a student who made above average grades not being accepted to a college because she attends a school that is full of intelligent students.

All I am saying is, it is hard to stand out at Stanton both academically and socially. Of course, there are other ways to be known. On a college application, however, being president or holding an office for a club or class, and making good academic grades are definitely pluses. In the end, all students can do is try their hardest to be the best they can be and work for it, because in the end, it will pay off in the form of a diploma and a walk across a stage.

COLUMN: How to Avoid Creepers

By ELLIOTT BEALE, Administration Beat Reporter

As a teenage girl, one is often faced with many obstacles, one of these being having to face subjects commonly known as creepers. Creepers come in all shapes in sizes from old men at the beach to the kid sitting next to you in class that doesn't stop staring at you. There are proper do's and do not's to handle situations with these potential stalkers.

1. DO NOT give them your phone number. This could result in a barrage of text messages and phone calls that you do not want.

2. DO be nice to them, to an extent. You do not want anyone thinking you are a mean person, but they do need to understand you are not interested.

3. DO NOT lead them on. While you can be nice to them, don't go out of your way to make them think you like them. This will just make them creep harder.

4. DO NOT accept their Facebook friend request. The last thing you need is for them to have another way to creep on you.

5. DO NOT make direct eye contact with them. If you do, then you can give them a little smile, but definitely not a big one.

These are just the basics of avoiding creepers though, for there are many more ways you can handle these creepy situations. These five rules will work on their own the majority of the time, unless you have a total stalker on your hands.

STORY: Stanton Drama

By JOC'LENE SCARLETT, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- This year, Stanton's Troupe 3929 came out with many exciting showcases of young talent and there will be more of the same for next year.

Starting with their first show, the King Stag, to their final series of big performances, the annual Student Night of One Acts, the drama club and Troupe 3929 have set the bar pretty high this year.

The 2010-2011 season went so well, in fact, that in December it was announced that Aliza Goldstein, an alumnus of the troupe, was a winner of Young Playwright Inc.'s National Playwrighting Competition and set to attend the Young Playwrights Conference in January of this year.

Overall, both the drama club and Troupe 3929 have accomplished a lot this year and there are only more great things to come.

*Information taken from City Notes on The Daily Record

STORY: New School Year, New Policies?

By TORY ROTH, Administration Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)--Any new administrative policies for the 2011-2012 school year will not be decided upon until after this school year ends.

All final decisions regarding new administrative policies are made during the summer. The student body will not be informed of any of these possible changes before the 2010-2011 school year ends.

STORY: Mr. Ugly Contest

By ALEXANDRA MORGANTE, Media Center reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) – Stanton’s Mr.Ugly contest will take place on June 3 in the auditorium.

The show includes a variety of senior men who compete dressed as women in talent, beauty and ‘best legs.’ The admission price to see the contest is $5.00 and the show starts at 7:00 pm.

“I’m really excited to go,” said sophomore Taylor May. “It was absolutely hilarious last year!”

*The contest was originally scheduled for May 26 but had to be moved because it interfered with the spring football game.

STORY: National Latin Honor Society Inductions

By DURATI AHMED, Guidance Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- National Latin Honor Society Inductions will be taking place in the media center.

Latin Honor society will be having inductions in the school media center on Tuesday, May 31, 2011.

For more information contact Ms. Bunge, Latin Teacher.

STORY: The War Reenactment Games

By MORSAL OSMANI, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)--- The third annual War Reenactment Games will be held from May 12-17 in the softball field.

The end of the European History Advanced Placement exam indicates the beginning the annual War Reenactment Games. The different teachers and classes that are taking part in the games include the Heggood Hogs, Holcombe Heroes, and Shepard Sheeps.

The games are initially a kickball tournament. They first began when the teachers were thinking of doing something after the AP but before the final, and thought kickball would be fun. The Shepard Sheeps won the first year and the Holcombe Heroes won last year.

“My classes are really focused this year and we’re just going to take it one game at a time,” said Mr. Brain Heggood.

The game’s standards consists of students learning the art of winning gracefully. Fairness and an equitable environment are also provided for students with little or no athletic ability.

“I’m very excited to participate in the games and destroy Mr. Heggood and Mr. Holcombe’s classes,” said sophomore Megan Federico, a member of the Shepard Sheeps.

Here is the game schedule:

May 12
1st Period- Shepherd vs. Shepard
2nd Period- Holcombe vs. Shepard
3rd Period- Holcombe vs. Shepard
4th Period- Heggood vs. Shepard

May 13
1st Period- Heggood vs. Holcombe
2nd Period- Holcombe vs. Shepard
3rd Period- Heggood vs. Heggood
4th Period- Heggood vs. Holcombe (winner plays Shepard)

May 17
4th Period: Winner vs. Shepard

_____________UPDATE (May 20, 2011)

On May 17 the Heggood Hogs beat the Shepherd Sheeps in the final match of the war games. The game was a tight one with a score of 11-10. It was the Heggood Hogs first year to win in the three year period the games have been going on.

“It was very gratifying to win after all the work everyone put in,” said Mr. Heggood.

STORY: Marathon High

By MASON MILLER, Sports Beat Reporter


A new program called Marathon High is beginning to ignite! Under the Galloway Training Program, the goal of Marathon High is to get high school teens interested in running the 26.2 With Donna Breast Cancer Marathon or Half-Marathon.

"I think it’s really sad that they are taking away the athletic programs when high school teens need it the most as an outlet," said Marathon High founder, Deborah Dunham. "Marathon High, is a perfect substitute though. It’s open to all teenagers in high school that would take an interest in participating."

Marathon High is meant to train teens throughout Northeast Florida for the Breast Cancer Half-Marathon (for ages 13-19) or Marathon (ages 16-19). The turn out is expected to be tremendous because the coordinators such as world-class marathoner, Jeff Galloway and activist/runner, Deborah Dunham have been receiving responses even though the program has not officially started yet. Some schools have thought about taking in the Marathon High program as a club at their school. It would serve as a social group as well as a group for those that wish to become more physically fit.

Dunham’s dream is to see high school students learn about friendly competition, healthy eating, and succeeding. It definitely goes without saying that participants will have fun get in shape.

"This is for anybody, of any shape or any size that is willing to participate. It could even be for people that have never run a mile in their life. The main goal is not to increase speed but to have the accomplishment of crossing the finish line," said Dunham. The club has a bright future and as many make strides of crossing the finish line, others make strides to cure breast cancer.

STORY: I.B Invitations

By TAYLOR GALLOWAY, Academics Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- Last month there were numerous 2010-2011 Freshman who received an invitation to be a part of the International Baccalaureate (I.B) program for their sophomore, junior and senior year.

One of the requirements of I.B is to take four years of a language, and then take a test at the end of senior year. So what do the students that did not take a language have to do in order to make up for that year of a language that they did not take?

Mr.Turba said “they will take a language class for the next three years and then take the test at the end of senior year, they will be fine.”

So since the students were not a part of I.B freshman year they will not have to do anything in order to make up for a year of a language.

COLUMN: The Heat and Magic in the Upcoming 2011 Draft

By JONATHAN KEMP, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) -- On May 17, the NBA held its annual lottery selection for the 2011 NBA Draft, in which the Cleveland Cavaliers came away with the first pick.

Florida teams however did not fare so well. The Miami Heat will pick 31st in the draft (first in the second round). The Orlando Magic will pick 53rd in the draft. 

Last year the Heat did not pick until the second round, but they took Dexter Pittman (a center from the University of Texas) with their first pick. They also took power forward, Jarvis Varnado (Mississippi State), small forward, Da'Sean Butler (West Virginia), and small forward, Latavious Williams (NBA Development League).

The Magic only had two picks last year, one in the first round and one in the second. With their first pick they took center, Daniel Orton from the University of Kentucky (who has not even played one game in the NBA). With their second pick they took small forward, Stanley Robinson from the University of Connecticut.

This years NBA Draft will occur on June 23 in Neward, N.J. at the Prudential Center. 

The Miami Heat will probably focus on getting a solid big man with their one-and-only pick in the draft. They already have Pittman, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Chris Bosh that are decent down low. However, the biggest issue with the Heat this year (other than team chemistry) was their big men. So, Miami will probably target a big man in this years draft.

The Orlando Magic however are just as easy to predict as the Heat. The Magic really only have one good big man, which is Dwight Howard (who led the league with 15.5 rebounds per game, but also led the league with 5.5 turnovers per game). Orlando however could lose Dwight Howard in a blockbuster trade this year (possible to the Los Angeles Lakers for Andrew Bynum). After Howard, the top rebounder on the team is forward Ryan Anderson who averaged 4.5 rebounds per game. He definitely is not a stellar big man though. Look for the Magic to take a big man with their pick in the draft.

The Heat and the Magic both looked really good this year, both making it to the playoffs this. The Magic were eliminated in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks in six games. The Heat are currently still in the playoffs, taking on the Chicago Bulls (the series is tied 1-1). Florida teams do not have to worry about much, but big men are definitely the point of focus for both teams going into this offseason and the draft.

STORY: Senior Banquet

By LEAH QUISENBERRY, Activities Beat Reporter JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) – The Senior Banquet will take place tonight from 6:00-9:00 at the Prime Osbourne Center on Water Street. The Senior Banquet is a time for all the seniors to get together and celebrate before they all graduate on June 6. Many of the underclassmen can't wait for graduation, like sophomore Tina Lee, "It's not that I want them to leave or anything it just means I'm that much closer to graduation as well." Congrats class of 2011 we underclassmen want you to leave just as much as you want to leave.

STORY: SAME Engineering and Construction Camps

By YASMIN ALI, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE Fla. (SCPDA) – The Society of American Military Engineers is holding Engineering and Construction Camps for the Army, Navy, or Air Force.

At the SAME Engineering and Construction Camps, high school students from across the country learn engineering solutions and skills from professional engineers while getting a taste of what it means to work for and with military services. Students must have expressed an interest in pursuing a degree in engineering, architecture, or related fields.

SAME Jacksonville Post will fund transportation cost and half of the $550 registration fee for USAF and Navy Camps. Post will fund transportation costs for US Army Camp (student fund
$50 registration fee.)

1. U.S. Army Camp June 19-25, 2011Vicksburg, Miss.Application Deadline: March 18, 2011
2. U.S. Air Force Academy Camp June 24-30, 2011Colorado Springs, Colo.Application Deadline: April 15, 2011
3. U.S. Navy Seabees Camp July 31- Aug. 6, 2011Port Hueneme, Calif.Application Deadline: May 13, 2011

STORY: Science Textbooks First on the Cutting Board

By LEAH PARKER, Academics Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) – Budget cuts for the 2011-2012 school year show the cutting of all science textbooks, minus biology, as the number one priority over elementary art and PE, and sports.

“I think that it’s tragic that we have to cut anything,” says Biology 1 and AP Anatomy teacher Gigi Hornilla. However it is important to support all academics, including the arts and physical education, she says.

Students now have alternate sources of finding information, including the internet and the library, and that she “[doesn’t] think it will have a lot of effect” on her Anatomy class.

“Leave us the old ones and we’ll make due,” she says, but that “a class set would be nice to have,” calling the cuts workable, with addition of more supplemental material, such as handouts and study guides. She agrees that if one thing was to be taken out of science classrooms, textbooks would be the thing to go, stating that labs were too crucial to cut.

If a class set was available, the books could be rented to “students who don’t have easy access to alternate sources.”

STORY: Crew Girls Win 2nd Place at Regionals But Cannot Advance

By Kathryn McMullen, Media Center Beats Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, FL (SCPDA) -- Stanton’s Women Novice Boat, Bleu Bayou II, won 2nd place in the final race of Women’s Novice 8+ Southeast Regional Championship, winning a silver medal.

“I think it’s really cool that we even got to regionals. I think we did really good, we won our heats and semi-finals, and then we came in second in finals. We did pretty awesome because we are [now] 2nd out of 7 states.” said novice rower Grace Halstead.

The rowers included freshmen Jessie Pugh, Kaitlin Black, Catherine Vernon, Mackenzie Bell, Avery McCall, Myranda Love, Grace Halestead, and Samantha Nelson. Also rowing in their Novice boat is 8th grader Meg Coyle, who attends Holy Spirit Catholic School.

The race was held on Saturday, May 14 and Sunday, May 15 in Gainsville, Georgia.

Because they are Novices, which means that this is their first year rowing, they cannot advance to the Nationals Race.

STORY: Stanton Stars of Lacrosse Recognized

By LAURA GERBEC, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)-- The Stanton's boys lacrosse team members were ranked in their District 2 block based off of their statistics by the Florida High School Athletic Association at the end of the 2011 season.

The Blue Devils have a season record of 8-5, and earned seven team members recognition by their coaches and the FHSAA. Out of the five teams who made the district games, their coaches got their picks of their top players, along with second best ranking, and honorable mentions.

For the 1st team selection, which is the highest ranking, junior defense-man Joseph Jumber was picked, having the teams' top statistics, and now has the selection not only as an honor, but on his record, to give him opportunities such as scholarships and helping scouts find him.

"When I first heard, I wanted to know who had picked me," said Joseph, "but when I found out it was based off statistics, I was honored."

For the 2nd team selection, senior attackman Mark Hodges and sophomore goalie Jake Patel were picked, both of whom have played in only 13 games, but are making a good impression. Jake Patel has already begun to be scouted, and was voted Player of the Week twice in a row for his talented goal-keeping. Mark Hodges was voted as Player of the Week for his playing the the first game of the season, having scored four goals.

"I think that Steve Straley, Jake Patel, Danny Miller, or Jacob George could all have taken my spot," said Joseph.

Lastly, four boys on the Stanton team earned honorable mentions, which were Branden Beaudreau, Steve Straley, Jacob George, and Zach Weeks. Although Stanton did not win the district game, they still remain ranked as number three in the District 2 teams.

STORY: Congratulations to the 2010-2011 Thespian Winners

By AMANDA AGLE, Clubs and Activities beat reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla, (SCPDA) -- The 2010-2011 Drama club hosted their annual drama banquet on May 15 to congratulate this years thespian winners and a well done year.

Here are this years thespian winners:

Best Performance, Actor, Lead Role, Full-Length Play

Nathan Dennis in Lend Me a Tenor

Best Performance, Actress, Lead Role, Full-Length Play

Priscilla Brubeck in Lend Me a Tenor

Best Performance, Actor, Supporting Role, Full-Length Play

Jake Higdon in Lend Me a Tenor

Best Performance, Actress, Supporting Role, Full-Length Play

Shelby Ellis in Lend Me a Tenor

Best Performance, Actor, Leading Role, One-Act Play

Will Baxley in I'm Herbert

Best Performance, Actress, Leading role, One-Act Play

Emily Iannotti in I'm Herbert

Best Performance, Actor, Supporting Role, One-Act Play

Richie Clark in The Clowns

Best Performance, Actress, Supporting Role, One-Act Play

Jessica Alvarez in Liquidation of the Assests

Amal Kamal in Local Color

Best Original Script

Liquidation of the Assets by Nathan Dennis

Best Direction

Emily Iannotti and Tiernan Middleton for Liquidation of the Assets

Best Technical Worker

Kathryne Krueger

Best Newcomer

Jessica Alvarez

Best Thespian

Tiernan Middleton

STORY: Senior Take Over Day

By RACHEL JAFFE, Administration Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)—Senior take over day is on Tuesday, May 24.

Seniors take over the positions of their favorite teachers or staff workers in their attempt to leave an impression on the school before they leave.

Students will take the responsibilities of participating teachers, teaching lessons as well as being active with the class.

Senior Nathan Dennis says, “It’s beyond awesome and it makes me realize how close teachers and students are at Stanton.”

STORY: Crew Banquet

By BRANDON GEORGE, Sports Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILE, Fla. (SCPDA)-- The Stanton Riverbank Rowing team is holding a crew banquet on Saturday, May 11, 2011 at the Jacksonville Public Library.

The banquet is going to be held at 5:45 p.m. and is open to all crew members and their families and it is a semi-formal occasion.

The Stanton Riverbank Rowing team has had a successful season with a major win at Jacksonvile City Rowing Championship Regatta on April 9 over Bolles and Episcopal.

The Stanton Riverbank Rowing team and their family should contact Karen Burr for any concerns or access the Stanton Riverbank Rowing website.

COLUMN: Improved Media Center Sign Up Program

By KATHRYN MCMULLEN, Media Center Beats Reporter

JACKSONVILLE, FL (SCPDA)--The improved sign up method started May 11, 2011 and since then, there have been a deluge of opinions on it. Some kids don’t like it while others love the easy access to the sign up system.

I believe that this new sign up sheet is good, but might not be perfect, and the old sign-up sheet (avaliable in the book when you first walk in) should still be avaliable. Some students don’t know if they will get a ride every day, or if their parent is late, or they may have an abrupt change in their schedule, like if the club that they are participating in gets canceled or a game gets called off. If they stay out in the front for a few minutes someone will tell them to go inside. They need an on-the-spot destination that they can stay in while waiting for parents. If they cannot have access to the media center because they did not sign up before 2:35pm, they have no safe place to go, relax, and get some homework done.

I like the concept of the new online system to sign up for the media center, and it is perfect for students to sign up, but I think that the Media Center should be a place that kids know they can go to without having to worry about if they will get kicked out or not, like other places on campus tend to do (i.e. the front of the school). However I strongly agree with the broad concept of at least signing up. This provides a safe environment for students.

Something that has a perfect use for the online sign up is computer access. The only way to have access to comupters is if you sign up on the computer. However, to those students who don’t, they will not have access to the computers but still have access to the Media Center. This will ensure a safe room to all students, but reward those who signed up beforehand. In this day and age, a large percentage of our homework is either required or reccomended to be completed on the computer, so there is a high demand for them in terms of homework.

The Media Center is definitely attempting to become more modernized in their technology and habits, but I believe that in this case, we may need to find a way to compromise between the old and the new.

STORY: Dual Enrollment

By YASMIN ALI, Clubs and Activities Beat Reporter

JACKSONVILLE Fla. (SCPDA) – On May 16 and 17 select sophomores and juniors took the College Placement Test.

The College Placement Test was for certain students who qualified for dual enrollment. Dual Enrollment is a college program in which students can receive college credit for the courses they take in high school. It is only offered for select courses such as Spanish four.

In order to qualify for dual enrollment students must have a passing score on the SAT or the CPT. The CPT is used as a qualifying test for students who have not taken the SAT.

The test started at 11:30 a.m. and lasted until the end of the school day, it was held in the auditorium. Students overall were glad they took the test even though they missed third and fourth period.

“The test was hard. But, overall I am happy I did it, because it can really help me out in college when I don’t have to pay for another expensive course,” said sophomore Maria Ilyas.

Q&A: Local Imam on Muslim Community

By Hamza Ajmal, Academic Beat Reporter

The Imam of the Islamic Center of North East Florida, Joseph Bradford, sat down for a Q&A piece regarding the state of the Muslim Community, his thoughts and actions and the future of the community in Jacksonville.

1. Devils Advocate- What is an Imam, what is his purpose?
Imam Bradford- An Imam is a leader, a person who due the depth of his knowledge of the faith of Islam and his ability to develop and lead others, act as a spiritual advisor, and contribute to the overall religious, social and education direction of the community that has appointed him.

2. DA- How long have you been an Imam in Jacksonville?
Imam- I’ve been an Imam officially since November of last year.

3. DA- Being the spiritual leader for many in Jacksonville, what are some responsibilities that have fallen upon you? do you indoctrinate or guide?
Imam- As the Imam I have a responsibility to serve the community, both Muslim and people of other faiths. For the Muslim community I lead prayers, perform weddings and funerals, give sermons and educate the congregation, as well as lead programs and projects to better the community. For people of other faiths, I do outreach and participate in interfaith events, host orientations on Islam, as well as participate with other faith leaders in social service projects.

4. DA- Has Osama Bin Laden death affected the mosque, how have you dealt with the situation?
Imam- The death of this individual has brought an air of relief to the Muslim community. I think most people were alleviated that now that the threat he posed is gone, that they will be able to function normally in society without having to worry about that individual’s actions reflecting negatively upon them as individuals or communities.
I personally was very relieved and I now have hope that the erroneous tactics and ideas espoused by this man and his followers will decline.

5. DA- What are your thoughts on Osama Bin Laden and his death?
Imam-I personally was very relieved and I now have hope that the erroneous tactics and ideas espoused by this man and his followers will decline.

6. DA- How do you plan to change the many misconceptions surrounding Islam and Muslims?
Imam- This is always a challenge, because to be able to change something you have to have access to what needs changing, and anyone with a misconception must be willing to make a change. I feel that if we are accommodating and open to interacting with others while remaining dedicated and true to our faith that this will be the best way to change misconceptions.

7. DA- What have you done so far to change the negative perspective, if there is any?
Imam- I’ve begun to create friendships with other clergy around the city from Jewish and Christian congregations, as well as interact with Interfaith leaders and civic groups. I’ve started talks with a few congregations to do youth exchanges and invite clergy to our Mosque to talk to the Muslim community, as I as well have been invited to speak to
congregations of other faiths.

8. DA- How can others contribute to this?
Imam- We need people both young and old that can come out to interfaith events and positively represent their faith. To do this though we need Muslims educated in their faith, and so I always encourage active learning of faith so we can all give back.

9. DA- What do you see in the future for Muslims in Jacksonville?
Imam- Being from Jacksonville and having grown up here, I’ve seen the Muslim community grow from a handful of people to a community of thousands. The community will continue to grow, and I see a future where a faith-filled Muslim community will become a leader of social works and events in the city.

10. DA- Finally, what can Stanton students do to prevent negativity, not just towards Muslims, but all religions and peoples?
Imam- The most important thing that a High school student can do to combat negativity to speak out when they see something wrong; whether that be to a fellow student, to school administrators, or to anyone in authority or control of a situation. Many times we stay quiet looking for approval from our friends or because we are afraid to jeopardize our own opportunities. God says in the Quran “You who believe, stand up for what is right and just; witnessing for the people this fact if it is against your kith and kin…” All people have the moral obligation to stand up for fairness and equality.

STORY: Jacksonville Giants Summer Camp

By LIZ SABATINO, Academic beat reporter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA)--Jacksonville's newest sensation, the Jacksonville Giants basketball team, is hosting a youth basketball camp this summer. At the camp, boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 17 years old will learn "skills and drills that the pros use".

The summer camp is staffed by actual Jacksonville Giant players and coaches, providing hands on lessons from a program and players that were undefeated in the 2010-2011 basketball season. Each day includes skill learning and practice, followed by scrimmages and fun all inclusive activities.

All registration forms and fees are to be completed and mailed (or e-mailed) by June 10, 2011 in order for the participant to be eligible. The camp spans from June 13 to June 17 from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. each day. AT the end of the week, campers will receive a complimentary Giants t-shirt and one ticket to the first Giants home game of the 2011-2012 season.

More information, as well as all required forms, can be found at http://jacksonvillegiants.com/Summer_camp.aspx