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The Panorama Climate Survey displays that many students are disappointed with the Staples school climate and have lost a connection to many aspects of school.
Survey shows students dissatisfied with school climate
The Counties Assemblies nonprofit organization is encouraging upperclassmen at Fairfield County schools to purchase tickets for their annual charity dances, in anticipation of the Nov. 20 registration deadline. I
Fairfield County ushers back Counties Assemblies winter dances
Jayme Stevenson gives her opening statement.
Congressional candidates ventilate important issues in Staples library
The 2022 Midterms were one of the most consequential in history. Democrats did far better than expected, with the best results for an incumbent President’s party since 2002.
Midterms 2022: Republican ripple nationwide, Democratic sweep in CT
People wear honor beads at the event to display their connection to the cause. Each color means something different. Loss of a child (white), loss of spouse or partner (red), loss of a parent (gold), loss of a sibling (orange), loss of relative or a friend (purple), personal struggles or attempt (green), Supporting someone who has struggles or has attempted (teal), supporting suicide prevention, honoring the LGBTQ+ community (rainbow).
6th annual Out of the Darkness fundraiser gathers communities, spreads awareness of suicide, depression, mental illnesses
Red and White Charity Ball approaches in the new year. Attendance can be very costly as girls, along with buying expensive tickets, they must also purchase a formal outfit.
Red and Whites dance proves unnecessary
Excessively expensive tickets for sporting events makes it increasingly difficult for fans to support their team (Photo by William Murray ’25)
Expensive ticket prices creates difficulty in attending events, unfairly hurting supporters
Students Daisy Fording ’24 and Teddy Deutsch ’24 prepare for their first ever language midterm.
Real midterms serve as a new, necessary challenge to student body
At the Island School students were able to study biodiversity in a hands-on approach by scuba diving with various animals.
Experiential learning opportunities lack in the curriculum
Every year an exorbitant amount of waste is produced during the holiday season. There are so many ways to contribute to bettering the planet by simply improving a few holiday rituals. The many misconceptions surrounding recycling are very harmful for the earth but change is in reach.
How to be eco-friendly this holiday season
Gavin Rothenberg ’23 (left) and Charlie Honig ’23 (right) produce “The Clean Up Crew” in Staples’ radio production room. Their first episode was released in late October.
Radio students produce new show ‘The Clean Up Crew’
Outside of the cafeteria, there are posters with details about the event as well as a group of students from either the Westport Youth Commission or TAG selling tickets.
Dodgeball, teens, police officers builds bonds between WPD, youth
Gas has become another commonly seen social media app on teenagers phones. At Staples currently, the user population is growing daily.
Gas app gains popularity at Staples
The event includes 28 exhibitors, all dedicated to making the holidays in Westport more sustainable.
Zero Waste Committee goes green at Westport Holiday Green Festival
The Connecticut lotteries sit at $59 million and $207 million, as of Nov. 13.
A penny for your thoughts: what would you do with 2 billion dollars?
“The Miseducation of Cameron Post” by Emily M. Danforth is a fictional portrayal of the journey of a gay girl as she endures the trials of conversion therapy.
Queer Books: Representation in literature provides sense of identity to readers
Ava Chun ’25 poses outside of Westport’s Academy of Dance after a weekend rehearsal for “The Nutcracker.” She, along with many other students, practices as the performance date approaches.
Westport Academy of Dance’s ‘The Nutcracker’ excites many as date nears
Netflix’s “The Monster: Dahmer” successfully entertains, but falls short in terms of morality and its focus upon the victims’ stories.
‘The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ shamefully dramatizes trauma for entertainment
Released to Netflix on Oct 5, 2022, Mr. Harrigan’s Phone leaves viewers unfrightened despite being labeled as a horror movie.
Netflix’s ‘Mr Harrigan’s Phone’ fails to fit the horror genre
“The Woman King,” released on Sept. 16, 2022 starred Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu with their incredible acting skills.
Prince-Bythewood’s incredible ‘The Woman King’ is a must see
Annam Olasewere ’25 participated in the USA Swimming National Select Camp in order to improve her mindset both in and out of the pool.
Annam Olasewere makes a splash at USA Swimming National Select Camp
Excessively expensive tickets for sporting events makes it increasingly difficult for fans to support their team (Photo by William Murray ’25)
Expensive ticket prices creates difficulty in attending events, unfairly hurting supporters
Simonte shares her love of field hockey with other individuals who have neuro-developmental challenges. She volunteers at a local facility and has created a floor hockey program for members to engage in.
Simonte shares love for field hockey, Hearts 4 Hockey
The Wreckers face off against West Hill before a hike. The defensive line was strong, with Staples stopping West Hill from scoring a single point.
Wreckers demolish Vikings in 49-0 “washout” game
Both the Wreckers and Warriors in a time-out with the score at 20-22, moments before the game ended.
Girls’ volleyball triumphs over Wilton Warriors
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Lucie Nivaud ’24 pledged to donate 25 cents to Pinkaid for every assist. Nivaud raised around $85 from her own contributions and more from donations.
Nivaud bumps, sets, spikes Pinkaid goal through volleyball fundraiser
On crosshare.org, an online crossword website, Tavan Bhatia ’23 and Jeffrey Pogue ’23’s October crossword for Inklings received recognition as a “featured puzzle.” One of crossshare.org’s crossword reviewers, Ariel Haymarket, described their puzzle as the “perfect puzzle to celebrate the spooky season.”
Bhatia and Pogue converse about monthly crosswords
Many members of the Westport and surrounding towns participated in the walk as part of groups, like Inklings, to help suicide prevention.
Westport community comes together for Out of the Darkness Walk
Staples students, a large majority of them being seniors, attend the University of Vermont college visit held in the college & career center on Friday, Oct. 14.
Juniors struggle to attend college visits
Juniors reflect on the start to junior year and how to balance a difficult schedule of AP classes, sports and other extracurriculars.
Second quarter of year approaches, juniors reflect on pressure
An armed Westport police officer walks towards Staples to evaluate the swatting threat.
Staples High School receives fake shooter threat causing lockdown
In a report created by Colliers Project Leader for the Westport Finance and Facilities Subcommittee earlier this year, it was recommended that $600,000 of a $8.16 million improvement plan should be used on electrical improvements and repairs.
Long Lots Elementary School fire causes evacuation for students
Bedford teacher Arthur Ellis (pictured above) turned himself in on April 27 due to sexual assault allegations. Ellis was officially charged with sexual assault in the fourth degree and risk of injury to a minor. Ellis has posted bail and is awaiting trial on May 6.
Bedford teacher turns himself into police after sexual assault accusations
Governor Ned Lamont plans to implement the most ambitious reopening plan in the tristate area since the pandemic started last year. Throughout March and April, all capacity limits for most businesses and personal retail stores are being lifted.
Connecticut’s transition to 100% capacity, eased restriction concerns among students
Increased flooding downtown threatens shops through costs and water damage
Increased flooding downtown threatens shops through costs and water damage
On crosshare.org, an online crossword website, Tavan Bhatia ’23 and Jeffrey Pogue ’23’s October crossword for Inklings received recognition as a “featured puzzle.” One of crossshare.org’s crossword reviewers, Ariel Haymarket, described their puzzle as the “perfect puzzle to celebrate the spooky season.”
Bhatia and Pogue converse about monthly crosswords
Under the cell phone policy, students are required to place their phone into a designated sleeve. However, this policy isn’t enforced in every class.
Students and teachers on new cell phone policy
Westport Nutrition held its grand opening on May 21. Its focus is healthy, fueling drinks for the community, targeting athletes.
Westport Nutrition fuels community with healthy options
Most students have plans to travel this summer, whether it is visiting the beach or a foreign country.
Students share plans for upcoming summer break
Seniors preparing to leave Staples think back on all of the memories that made their high school experience.
Seniors reflect, rejoice on favorite high school memories
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Lucie Nivaud ’24 pledged to donate 25 cents to Pinkaid for every assist. Nivaud raised around $85 from her own contributions and more from donations.
Nivaud bumps, sets, spikes Pinkaid goal through volleyball fundraiser
Boys’ cross country participated in the FCIACs meet and placed second on Oct. 19.
Boys’ cross country reflects on FCIAC performance
In this podcast, we take a look at Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers playoff predictions.
New York Rangers embark on NHL playoffs
The Staples girls’ lacrosse team played under the lights on the football field for the first time in a regular season game.
Girls’ lacrosse finally plays under the lights
In 2017, the United States had the fastest growing squash population across the globe and saw junior participation grow fourfold, as per US Squash. In line with the national trend, Staples girls’ squash is seeing an increase in involvement, with 22 girls rostered this season compared to 16 last year.
Girls’ squash commences new season, grows in popularity
Taylor Swift’s 10th studio album, “Midnights,” came out Oct. 21. Her fans, often called “Swifties,” are constantly active on social media, posting their theories and thoughts about new music.
Staples Swifties talk Swift’s impact, ‘Midnights’
Westport Nutrition held its grand opening on May 21. Its focus is healthy, fueling drinks for the community, targeting athletes.
Westport Nutrition fuels community with healthy options
Most students have plans to travel this summer, whether it is visiting the beach or a foreign country.
Students share plans for upcoming summer break
Valerie Dreyfuss and Lily Caplan discover what students are listening to.
What’s Staples listening to?
Elle Vail ’23 satirically provides her insight upon this year’s junior prom dresses on the Paris Hilton’s “hot or not” spectrum.
Junior Prom Dresses: Hot or Not Satire
Photo by Shira Zeiberg “Operation Varsity Blues” is a documentary investigating the mastermind behind the scheme to get kids of rich families into top colleges.
Netflix film ‘Operation Varsity Blues’ sheds light on college admissions scandal
Staples students are cautious to travel due to the looming threat of COVID-19.
Students traveling for vacation raises COVID concerns
Each year, students must receive recommendations from teachers to enroll in specific level classes. Though these recommendations are helpful, they also can restrain students from taking classes they know they can handle.
Teacher recommendations do more harm than good
After making our way through the towns best diners and delis, we found that the classic Sherwood Diner breakfast sandwich was our favorite.
Students search for Westport’s best egg sandwich
First Lady Biden brings education to forefront of American politics
First Lady Biden brings education to forefront of American politics
On the Wreckord - Episode Four
On the Wreckord – Episode Four
On the Wreckord - Episode Three
On the Wreckord – Episode Three
On the Wreckord - Episode Two
On the Wreckord – Episode Two
On The Wreckord - Episode One
On The Wreckord – Episode One
Inklings Wordle 11/22/22
Inklings’ Wordle 11/22/22
Inklings Wordle 11/18/22
Inklings’ Wordle 11/18/22
Inklings Wordle 11/16/22
Inklings’ Wordle 11/16/22
Inklings’ Wordle 11/15/22
Inklings Word Search 11/11/22
Inklings’ Word Search 11/11/22
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Join the discussion.

Inklings News
Audrey Kercher ’23

Audrey Kercher ’23, Breaking News Manager

Breaking News Manager Audrey Kercher ’23 was first interested in Inklings because of its prestige, but the community she found drew her in.

“I wanted to be part of a smaller community in such a big school,” Kercher said.

Kercher enjoys spending her time playing on the Staples Girls’ Varsity Tennis team.

“I like how tennis is an individual sport, it allows me to reflect on myself during matches.”

Outside of tennis, she practices her self taught skills on the guitar and ukulele. 

“I like playing any old school Taylor Swift,” Kercher said.

 

All content by Audrey Kercher '23
Red and White Charity Ball approaches in the new year. Attendance can be very costly as girls, along with buying expensive tickets, they must also purchase a formal outfit.

Red and Whites dance proves unnecessary

November 22, 2022
As the Nov. 1 early deadline for college applications approaches, seniors fit college visits into their schedule. Wake Forest University (pictured above) is one college Staples students are visiting.

Class of 2023 faces struggles applying to colleges

October 9, 2022
Jordan Peele and the cast of “Nope” came out on July 22, 2020. “Nope,” with an interesting storyline and concepts, seemed to be popular amongst others, however, “Nope” proved to be an over-complicated movie. Graphic by Audrey Kercher 23

Peele’s ‘Nope’ proves disappointing

September 23, 2022
Pro-abortion rights protestors gather in downtown Westport holding signs supporting DefenDemocracy’s cause and listening to speakers.

Connecticut protests for abortion rights

May 18, 2022
Despite rising COVID cases, cases are less severe as more people are vaccinated and less deaths are occurring due to COVID. This means that people will remain safe without bringing back COVID restrictions.

Rising COVID cases should not alter normality

May 3, 2022
Superintendent Thomas Scarice lifted the mask mandate in Westport public schools on Feb. 28. Staples students now choose between wearing a mask or not wearing one.

Students react to lifted mask mandate

March 8, 2022
As more celebrities attempt to get into politics, questions arise about whether this would be beneficial or harmful to American democracy.

Celebrities must stay out of politics; we must stop listening

March 1, 2022
Ice skating is one of the activities that can be done outside during the winter. It is a great way to stay active while also enjoying the cool climate.

Outdoor winter activities stop seasonal boredom

January 8, 2022
Staples High School has significantly higher standardized test scores compared to the rest of the country. Because of these high test scores, Staples High School is very competitive and high-achieving in academics.

Standardized testing competition must be eliminated

November 24, 2021
Westport children Penny and Jack Smith received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. They have just become eligible.

Westport parents remain hesitant about vaccinating their younger kids

November 23, 2021
Emma Nahon ’23 has committed to University of Pennsylvania for field hockey. Nahon currently plays for the Staples girls’ varsity field hockey team.

Committed Staples athletes show excitement, dedication

October 19, 2021
Wakeman field at Bedford Middle School is the designated parking area for juniors. There are not set parking spaces, making parking there not optimal.

Harsher punishment must be enforced for parking in seniors’ spots

September 24, 2021
Amazon Prime Day will be held on June 21 this year. This Amazon holiday provides deals for customers and has been proven to be harmful to both the environment and to Amazon employees.

Avoid Amazon Prime Day for moral, environmental reasons

June 11, 2021
The third testing window is approaching for the 2021 AP exams. This window for the AP exams is happening in June and will be taken from home.

Tips to succeed on digital AP exam

June 7, 2021

Motorcade brings closure to seniors

May 25, 2021
Connecticut travel guidelines have been updated to be less strict, and to include options for those who have been vaccinated. These updated guidelines are less restrictive, while remaining safe.

Updated travel guidelines prove effective, safe

May 6, 2021
Lemon bars are easy and quick to make. They are perfect for the spring because of their light and refreshing taste and sunny color.

Lemon bars make perfect treat for spring

March 24, 2021
The three vaccines currently being given are highly effective in preventing COVID-19. The effectiveness of the vaccines makes more people want to take it, and also decreases the spread of COVID-19.

Vaccinating students will lead to end of pandemic

March 10, 2021
During COVID-19 some Westport dance studios have implemented a hybrid schedule where dancers go into the studio or dance from home via Zoom. Because of the difference in surroundings, dancers have a different experience based on their location.

Dance studio’s hybrid model changes class experience

February 24, 2021
Due to confusion with the state of Connecticut, some teachers have already been vaccinated or registered to be vaccinated even though they are not technically eligible until the end of February, or even March. Currently, only phase 1a and the beginning of 1b are eligible to be vaccinated, and teachers are in the later part of phase 1b.

Vaccine eligibility contradictory, causes confusion for teachers

February 12, 2021
Homework assigned over the holiday break forces students to focus on school assignments rather than festive activities like decorating a Christmas tree

Homework during the holidays puts damper on festivities

December 23, 2020

College kids search for jobs

December 22, 2020
Sticky buns serve as a wonderful breakfast or dessert for special occasions. Although it is an overnight recipe, it is so easy to make.

Sticky buns; sweet overnight treat to make for the holidays

December 15, 2020
The exposure notification option in settings is available on both apple and android phones in Connecticut. When enabled, the service tracks if people have been exposed to others that have Covid-19 through logging any phone that comes within six feet. If someone with this service tests positive for Covid-19, they enter it into their phone and the exposure notifications send a message to phones that have come within six feet of the positive person.

Westport establishes hotline, exposure notifications to track Covid-19

November 25, 2020
The first snowfall of the school year happened recently, and it left people wondering if snow days will now be online days. Online school instead of snow days is more beneficial because it allows for students to still learn.

Online learning allows students to learn in all conditions

November 10, 2020
Residents of Westport put exuberant decorations on their houses and in their yards to get in the Halloween spirit.

Halloween house decorations raise holiday spirit

October 22, 2020
Students of Staples High School run online clubs through Zoom meetings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Online clubs enhance students’ COVID-19 experience

October 9, 2020
Staples cross country runners wear masks and socially distance while running in their small cohorts at practice.

COVID-19 affects cross country team

September 25, 2020
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