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During the months of April through November, Church Lane will be closed to public traffic allowing only pedestrians on the road.
Downtown Westport announces seasonal entertainment starting early April
If approved, this years Education budget will increase by about 8%.
Board of Finance approves Board of Education budget for next year
Dr. Daniel Cortright leads the BMS Science Olympiad team to victory. Cortright started out as the assistant coach in 2017 and became head coach in the 2021-2022 season.
Bedford Middle School Science Olympiad team places first in state tournament, advances to national competition
Leigh Foran ’24 poses for her next year on the Colombia Women’s Track team.
Principal Thomas announces 2024 valedictorian, salutatorian
Westport will charge electric vehicle drivers fees at 35 charging stations across town and railroad lots, with a rate of 35 cents per kilowatt-hour and an additional idling fee at certain locations, to promote sustainable and economically viable EV use.
Westport implements electric vehicle charging fees
Warmer temperatures in Westport and Fairfield County during the winter cite a need for climate action.
Abnormally warm winter and spring cite importance of reducing climate change
Even though many people think that having a 504 plan means that people are disabled, it actually means that they might need a little extra help but they can still succeed even if it isnt the “normal” path to success.
Having a 504 plan doesn’t make someone dumb, it means they have a different path to success
The emergence of post high school plan Instagram accounts has heightened stress among students and proved to be unproductive. Although intending to be positive, it fosters competition.
‘Post high school plan’ Instagram pages prove unproductive, generate competition
Emails and reminders for course registration can help students think ahead.
Scrambling to finalize courses for that “final counselor meeting’’
Entering 2024, students are now able to participate in the digital SAT which provides many advantages and new opportunities, in contrast to the paper SAT that was previously given. (Graphic from Wikimedia)
Digital SAT unleashes new advantages, monumental for the future of testing
Students will begin in Rome and visit major cities like Venice until ending up in Paris, France to conclude their 11 day trip of museums and monuments.
Art department’s trip to Italy and France offers glance into European art, culture, history
Across the school, there are seven Stop the Bleed kits placed within first aid boxes.
M.O.S.S. enters Connecticut, planting roots in Staples High School
Members on the Staples STEM trip pose in front of Mediterranean Sea.
STEM students and staff embark on meaningful trip through Northern Italy and France despite last minute obstacles
The paper version of the SAT has now been changed to digital.
Juniors express opinions after taking new digital SAT test
Marley Belzer ’26 (left) and Taylor Brunetti ’25 (right) record new podcast-style IMentor videos at Westport’s Touquet Hall
Next generation of IMentor, internet safety program MiniMentor educates Westport youth
A gaggle of insects (Left to right Cameron Mann ’24, Josy Pitaro ’24, Finley Chevrier ’24, Samantha Edwards ’24, Matthew Bukzin ’24) facing James (Beck Fipp ’27) during rehearsal.
James and the Giant Peach makes its debut at Staples
Usher performed during the Apple Music halftime performance in Las Vegas, Nevada, for Super Bowl LVIII.
Revealing the highs and lows of Usher’s Super Bowl halftime performance
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies is now open in Westport in addition to Fairfield in the Post Road plaza with Greens Farms Spirit Shop and Fortuna’s.
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies expands into Westport
The Grammys 2024 had highs and lows, per usual.
The Grammys 2024 were predictable, but fun
Galentines Day 2023 table
Whip up some love: Valentine’s Day recipes to savor with loved ones
Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. carries spirit week on his back by wearing pink for color wars in the week leading up to homecoming.
“This school isn’t fun,” yes, but it can be
Staples High School defeated Bassick High School by a whopping 42 points as Wreckers defeated the Lions by a score of 84-42. (Photo by William Murray 25)
Boys’ basketball trounces Bassick in straightforward win
Many sports show games on multiple platforms, meaning the cost to watch sports is rising.
Paywalls pose obstacles, close viewership to sports fans
Nick Sikorski ’24 converts a layup in the first quarter. (Contributed by Nick Sikorski 24)
Late rally pushes Wreckers towards victory over Greenwich
Many professional athletes have dealt with their mental health struggles by taking breaks from their respective sports. Taking a mental break from a sport should be a decision that is respected by their coach (Contributed by Greershotz Photography).
Sacrificing my pom poms for my mental health: rigid cheerleading policy must change to support athletes’ well-being
The bulk ferment is when the yeast fully developed through rest. The dough should nearly double in size and get bubbly. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will ferment. If you leave the dough on the counter it will take about eight to 10 hours. For a more sour dough, leave it in the fridge for up to three days for a slower fermentation.
Sourdough: A simple but challenging craft
On Sunday, March 17, the 4 by 800m relay competed. From left to right, Sarah Bogdan 26, Leigh Foran 24, Emma Morris 24 and Avery Kalter 27 were on the relay. They finished with a time of 10:17. Though their season record was 10:06, they finished in the top eight overall.
Girls’ Track travels to Adidas Nationals
Mrs. Robbins gets personal and answers 10 questions.
10 Questions with Mrs. Robbins
Class of 2024 share their riveting plans of traveling abroad, team bonding and taking time to unwind.
Reset and recharge: how seniors are making the most of final break
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
Mrs. Robbins gets personal and answers 10 questions.
10 Questions with Mrs. Robbins
Class of 2024 share their riveting plans of traveling abroad, team bonding and taking time to unwind.
Reset and recharge: how seniors are making the most of final break
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
One requested trend that teens want back is slime, so we tested it out for ourselves to see if it is worth bringing back or should be left in the past.
Old trends still manage to intrigue
Keira Best signs her official commitment to Davidson College for women’s lacrosse.
Staples’ D1 signing day showcases athletes committing to colleges
The bulk ferment is when the yeast fully developed through rest. The dough should nearly double in size and get bubbly. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will ferment. If you leave the dough on the counter it will take about eight to 10 hours. For a more sour dough, leave it in the fridge for up to three days for a slower fermentation.
Sourdough: A simple but challenging craft
On Sunday, March 17, the 4 by 800m relay competed. From left to right, Sarah Bogdan 26, Leigh Foran 24, Emma Morris 24 and Avery Kalter 27 were on the relay. They finished with a time of 10:17. Though their season record was 10:06, they finished in the top eight overall.
Girls’ Track travels to Adidas Nationals
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
Dumplings hold significant meaning in Asian cultures, as they resemble hope and comfort. This auspicious symbol is especially meaningful during the Chinese New Year celebration, as they bring fortune and prosperity in the coming year.
How to make traditional Chinese dumplings
Cobs Bread opened recently in the Compo Acres shopping center, providing residents with fresh baked goods and a lively atmosphere.
Cobs Bread: fresh baked goods, quality service
On the Wreckord - Episode Fifteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Fifteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Fourteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Fourteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Thirteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Thirteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Twelve
On the Wreckord – Episode Twelve
On the Wreckord - Episode Eleven
On the Wreckord – Episode Eleven
Parents, students and members of the Westport community gather in protest against racism in the schools.
Westport rallies against racism: Community protests discrimination in public schools
Legacy admissions remain a contentious topic among Connecticut schools, with some opting to consider legacy status while others do not. However, this practice remains a significant factor in admissions decisions at many prestigious institutions.
Connecticut lawmakers may consider ban on legacy admission consideration
Jackson Cregan 24 stands to become the third Eagle Scout in 108 years to be awarded the Conservation Award after he completed two arduous environmental projects at Sherwood Island last fall. (Photo contributed by Jackson Cregan 24.)
Preserving Sherwood: Cregan’s journey to the highest Eagle Scout Award
Awesome Austin” (left) and his chief angel Andrew Berman (right) show off the medals Austin has received after participating in MyTEAM TRIUMPH events
Disabled marathoner inspires crowd at Westport charity event
To implement the ban on new smoke shops in Westport, several changes must be made to existing laws, including banning smoke shops from all zoning districts and requiring special permits to sell tobacco products.
Planning and Zoning Commission reveals potential ban on smoke shops in Westport
Inklings Wordle 4/12/24
Inklings’ Wordle 4/12/24
Inklings Wordle 3/15/23
Inklings’ Wordle 3/15/23
Inklings Wordle 3/7/23
Inklings Wordle 3/7/23
Inklings Wordle 3/3/23
Inklings’ Wordle 3/3/23
Inklings Wordle 2/17/23
Inklings’ Wordle 2/17/23
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Hannah Ratcliffe ’22

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor

Web Arts Editor Hannah Ratcliffe ’22 loves all things arts and dancing, which has shined through in Inklings.

“I am a competitive dancer at ‘The Spot’ studio in Norwalk and that takes up most of my time,” Ratcliffe said. “Dance is something I’m super passionate about and it's always been a huge part of my life.”

Being a dancer and a student can be a huge time commitment, so Ratcliffe has learned to integrate the two.

“I wrote my first two articles for Inklings surrounding dance, and one of the things I love most about the class is being able to write about what I want to write about and choosing my own path.”

 

All content by Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
Netflix released season four of Drive to Survive on March 13. Drive to Survive captures the behind-the-scenes moments of the Formula 1 race season, including team rivalries, driver lineups and the role of money in the sport.

Season four of ‘Drive to Survive’ delivers the behind the scenes of a thrilling Formula 1 season

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
May 3, 2022
‘Define feminine, I’m feminine’ trend takes over TikTok to embrace women’s differences and challenge societal expectations.

‘Define feminine, I’m feminine’ TikTok trend portrays societal expectations of women, highlights women’s differences

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 27, 2022
The Spot attends first competition at Breakout Dance Competition

The Spot attends first competition at Breakout Dance Competition

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 24, 2022
The Olympics are facing backlash for allowing 15 year old figure skater Kamila Valieva to continue competing at the 2022 Winter games despite testing positive for banned performance enhancing substances.

2022 Beijing Olympics present double standards in drug testing

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 8, 2022
Thanksgiving, usually a holiday representing family and unity, is seen as more of a melancholy and reflective day for those with international families.

Thanksgiving serves as a longing reminder of distant family

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
November 24, 2021
MoCA Westport presents new exhibition 'Between the Ground and the Sky'

MoCA Westport presents new exhibition, ‘Between the Ground and the Sky’

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
October 18, 2021
Assembly Bill 245 was passed in California on Oct. 6, 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom to prohibit public universities from misidentifying students on their diplomas and school reports.

New Assembly Bill 245 should inspire Staples High School to create a more inclusive community

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
October 15, 2021
Customers order by the window of The Tasty Yolk food truck in Fairfield while the staff cooks and prepares everything from brussel sprouts to bacon and egg breakfast sandwiches.

Tasty Yolk food trucks provide original, accessible breakfast option

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
September 28, 2021
The Department of Education announced that Connecticut schools will not be required to offer distance learning to students for the 2021-2022 school year, creating speculation regarding Staples’ plans for the fall.

Westport Public Schools not required to provide online learning option for future academic years

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
June 1, 2021

Staples seniors await spring internships

Madeline Michalowski ’22 and Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
March 5, 2021
The Westport Public Library offers weekly virtual study sessions for teens, giving them an opportunity to safely study with friends.

Westport Public Library’s virtual study halls foster academic opportunities

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
January 26, 2021

Holiday season brings sentimental gift giving

Madeline Michalowski ’22 and Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
December 22, 2020
Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
December 22, 2020
Madeline Michalowski ’22, one of the Spanish dancers, waits backstage at the Westport Academy of Dance’s 2019 performance of The Nutcracker.

Westport Academy of Dance forced to postpone annual performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
December 4, 2020
Doug Quinn opens new restaurant Hudson Malone on Oct. 16 on the corner of Main Street and Canal Street. Named after Quinns two sons, Hudson Malone has expanded from its previous location in New York and now offers Westporters an authentic New York style restaurant.

Two new restaurants, Hudson Malone, Outpost Pizza hope to survive pandemic

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
November 2, 2020
The Westport Museum of Contemporary Art launches new fall exhibition about world peace, including a variety of different artists that each comment on both current and past events such as the Black Lives Matter movement and modern politics.

MoCA Westport displays new exhibition surrounding world peace

Hannah Ratcliffe '22, staff writer
October 22, 2020
Students from the Spot @ Just Dance Studios practice routines with masks on.

COVID-19 greatly alters Westport’s dance studios

Madeleine Michalowski '22 and Hannah Ratcliffe '22
October 14, 2020
Junior Dance students’ assignments regarding physical and emotional goal-setting on Google Classroom.

Junior Dance course sacrifices full experience of class due to curriculum change

Hannah Ratcliffe '22
October 8, 2020
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