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The girls’ and boys’ bathrooms located by the bridge on the second floor are open again.
Bridge bathrooms reopen after three months
Thefts in the girls’ locker room occurred on Thursday, Dec. 8, and Friday, Dec. 9, and have left female Staples students in shock and missing belongings such as AirPods, debit cards and cash.
Locker room thefts leave female students missing belongings
Christmas tree companies across the nation experience negative impacts due to the increased inflation and price of their trees.
Christmas tree price inflates near holidays
One of the Westport donation sites for Toys for Tots, located outside of ASF Sports and Outdoors on Dec. 5, 2022.
Westport engages in 75th anniversary of Toys for Tots
The Wonderland House is found on Roseville Terrace in Fairfield. It has 500,000 lights and takes five people six to eight months to set up this display. They have lights ranging from minions to a Sandy Hook memorial throughout their yard. Although energy costs are rising in New England, the Halliways are already aware of the 20% increase in electric bills.
Inflation spikes electric bills during holiday season
Course selection can be very stressful and students often take classes they feel look good on their transcripts. However, taking classes of genuine interest is much more beneficial and engaging.
A guide to course selection; strive for enjoyment
As a result of going through experiences before any younger siblings, eldest siblings often suffer from anticipatory anxiety about being unsure of things like the college application process, what classes to take, and general life advice, putting them at a disadvantage in comparison to their peers who fall in a different spot in their family’s birth order.
Make it stop!: Eldest children face excessive and unnecessary pressures, anxiety
When absorbed in ones insecurities, it becomes all they think about and are reminded of it anywhere they go, such as security signs suddenly mocking people with braces, despite their real intentions.
Smile! You’re on camera: lessons from a braces late bloomer
According to FranklinCovey, approximately one third of resolutioners give up on their goals before the end of January, typically because of a lack of personal passion (i.e., setting a goal to conform to societal standards or pressures), practicality or specificity. However, by following the above steps when setting a goal—known as the “SMART” method, developed by the journal Management Review in 1981—you may be more likely to follow through with your resolution. All information taken from “How to Make (and Keep) a New Year’s Resolution),” New York Times
New Year’s resolutions prompt self-reflection, growth
Students with 504 plans are entitled to specific educational services intended to aid them in receiving a “free appropriate public education (FAPE).” However, the school is not doing its job to ensure this.
Special education, 504 plans: administration doesn’t give adequate academic support
The midterm schedule operates on the same periodic basis as the regular schedule, meaning if students have a free period they do not have to attend school during that time.
Fighting midterm hysteria: students share stories, teachers share tips
On a normal day the TVs around the schools display the same things. These things go generally unnoticed by students as they remain unchanged and aren’t very important to students.
World Cup inspires increased television usage.
Meehan sells cookies for $4 a cookie and 50 cents for special wrapping. For cakes it varies between $40-$60. It takes Meehan around four hours to complete an order, depending on the dessert.
CookiedByC creates countless customized cookies, cakes
The Asian Students Association attend their second meeting of the year on Dec. 2 in room 2064. The Asian affinity group discusses their lives as a part of the Asian American community, as well as what some possible future goals of the group should be.
Asian Students Association establishes community, raises awareness
Early decision results release in mid-December. Seniors that get accepted to their top choice college are bound to attend that school.
Seniors reflect on college early decision results period
At the beginning of the movie we see the characters receive an invitation. On that invitation has an evil eye or a mati and it refers to Miles Bron and his connection to his friends, the disruptors.
‘Glass Onion’ fails to meet high expectations
Popular holiday wishlist items that influencers promote include ultra ugg minis, flare pants and drunk elephant skincare products. These products have become staples in the TikTok community, and worn on a daily basis. These items have been sold out recently, in light of their popularity.
Influencers inspire through holiday gift guides
“Avatar: The Way of Water,” released Dec. 16, has grossed $134 million in box office profit. Its predecessor, “Avatar” has one of the highest box office evaluations of all time, amassing nearly $3 billion since 2009. Just like the first, the second Avatar is anticipated to have more long-term hype and continue to draw audiences for the next few years.
‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ thrills audiences with a hefty toll
The Corduroys practice one of their covers in the same room their viral video was recorded in.
Staples band catches the attention of millions
Manna Toast provides a variety of plant-based foods in their cafe. Their menu is available for dining-in, takeout and delivery.
Manna Toast Westport set to close by the end of the month
VJ Sarullo will officially begin his role as Staples new athletic director in March of 2023.
Staples welcomes new athletic director, VJ Sarullo, in March 2023
Kathryn Asiel ’24 and Sofia Fidalgo ’25 are announced as next seasons 2023 Staples girls varsity field hockey captains at the annual end of season banquet by coach Ian Tapsall.
Through thick and thin, Kathryn Asiel fiercely works her way to captain
Referees quit the profession due to a variety of reasons. Covid-19, verbal abuse, and inadequate pay leads to 70% of referees quitting within the first three years of having the job.
COVID-19, crowd conduct and cheap compensation leads to shortage of referees across the nation including Connecticut
The World Cup in football (soccer) is a tournament of 32 mens national teams that is organized by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
World Cup unites students
Politics and sports must be kept separate, merging the two together creates confliction (Graphic by William Murray ’25)
Mixing politics and sports creates losing formula
In early January, the Westport Library announced that it was given a 5-star rating from the Public Library Service’s 2022 “Library Journal Index.” The Westport Library was the only Connecticut library to be awarded one. Originally a reading room in 1886, the library has only grown and expanded in recent years, even receiving renovations in 2019 to revise the library space.
Westport Library receives 5-star rating, staff members reflect
Each year Trader Joes stocks the shelf with special holiday treats to enjoy. The wide variety ranges from chocolates, to peppermint cookies, candy canes, and even pasta sauce.
Taste-testing popular Trader Joe’s sweets
Hook-up culture has become increasingly more popular among younger generations, which has some believing that the existence of teen romance is threatened.
Hook-up culture popularity rises, poses question: is teen romance dead?
Students enjoy warmer weather during winter break as they vacation away from Westport.
Students reflect on short-lived winter break
On Powerschool, there is a feature where teachers and administrators can check how many times a student or parent has checked the app. A parent and student portal is also available, allowing parents and students to view student information and communicate with teachers.
Excessive use of Powerschool generates fixation on grades
In early January, the Westport Library announced that it was given a 5-star rating from the Public Library Service’s 2022 “Library Journal Index.” The Westport Library was the only Connecticut library to be awarded one. Originally a reading room in 1886, the library has only grown and expanded in recent years, even receiving renovations in 2019 to revise the library space.
Westport Library receives 5-star rating, staff members reflect
Mexicue opened on Nov. 16 on Westport’s Main Street.
Mexicue brings authentic Mexican cuisine to Westport
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
In early January, the Westport Library announced that it was given a 5-star rating from the Public Library Service’s 2022 “Library Journal Index.” The Westport Library was the only Connecticut library to be awarded one. Originally a reading room in 1886, the library has only grown and expanded in recent years, even receiving renovations in 2019 to revise the library space.
Westport Library receives 5-star rating, staff members reflect
Students enjoy warmer weather during winter break as they vacation away from Westport.
Students reflect on short-lived winter break
Elle’s Music Review: Dad’s Hot Take
Elle’s Music Review: Dad’s Hot Take
Jeera Thai, a small local business, is loved by students.
Local businesses bring life to community
Brandy Melville allows for a warped body image with their one size fits all theory. This video will put this to the test, trying on different tops and pants with honest reviews.
Brandy Melville’s one size fits all causes damage to young minds
The World Cup provided excitement for many members of the Staples community.
Community shares reactions following World Cup
Winter sports captains prepare for their final season with their team.
Winter sports captains embark on new season with high hopes
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Lucie Nivaud ’24 pledged to donate 25 cents to Pinkaid for every volleyball assist. Nivaud raised around $85 from her own contributions and even 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
Elle’s Music Review: Dad’s Hot Take
Elle’s Music Review: Dad’s Hot Take
Jeera Thai, a small local business, is loved by students.
Local businesses bring life to community
Brandy Melville allows for a warped body image with their one size fits all theory. This video will put this to the test, trying on different tops and pants with honest reviews.
Brandy Melville’s one size fits all causes damage to young minds
Fans waited in the queue to buy tickets for hours. Students were walking around school with laptops open, hoping they would get tickets and wouldnt get kicked off Ticketmaster.
Fans fight for Taylor Swift tickets
Staples Players provide a behind the scene look at their latest show, Guys and Dolls.
Players offer behind the scenes of Guys and Dolls
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 Six
On the Wreckord – Episode Six
On the Wreckord - Episode Five
On the Wreckord – Episode Five
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
The 10 year anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting leaves many Americans reflecting on the insignificant growth that has been made in regards to gun control over the last decade.
10 year anniversary of Sandy Hook shooting allows Americans to reflect
The large community of TikTok that discusses and recommends books is commonly called “BookTok.” The hashtag “#BookTok” has over 93 billion views across the app.
BookTok praises few books, proves dangerous for most authors
Within the last few months, swatting cases have increased countrywide, heightening concern among school communities.
Connecticut swatting incident highlights growing national problem
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
On Oct. 3, a Board of Education meeting was held regarding the status of several books containing LGBTQIA+ and sexual content. These books were debated on by several members of the Westport community.
Staples library display incites community response at BOE meeting
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Tristan Gonzalez ’24 packs notebooks in his suitcase so he can study for the midterms even whilst on vacation.

Midterms’ quick commencement after break multiplies stress on students, disrupts their vacations

Tristan Gonzalez '24, Staff Writer • January 3, 2023

After trudging through four months of school, enduring a stress-inducing and exam-filled week, you finally have a break. As the end of school bell rings, you let out a huge sigh of relief, for now you...

Early decision results release in mid-December. Seniors that get accepted to their top choice college are bound to attend that school.

Seniors reflect on college early decision results period

Audrey Kercher ’23, Breaking News Editor • December 13, 2022

Mid-December can be a bittersweet time for seniors. It’s a period of anticipation leading to either excitement or disappointment. Mid-December is early decision results season, aka when seniors receive...

E1 and E2, which are midterms and finals respectively, will account for 20% of a students final grade.

Midterms returns to normal, first time in 3 years

Matthew Stahshower ‘25 , Paper Sports Editor • December 13, 2022

The last time Staples had a normal midterm week was in January 2020, before the pandemic drastically changed the routine of high schoolers across the world. Since then, midterm exams have been either canceled...

On breaks and weekends, students are often overwhelmed by stress due to the rigorous academic expectations in Westport, which prompts students to constantly focus on school.

Separation between school, life proves essential; teachers, parents must understand

Caitlin Jacob ’24, Staff Writer • December 13, 2022

Similar to many Staples students, I enjoy days off of school. Getting a breath of fresh air, the feeling of freedom and the pure joys that come from the spontaneity of personal time are all appealing to...

Mental Health days prove unknown, yet helpful to students

Liora Perkins ’25 Web Arts Editor and Rylie Cordella ’25 Staff Writer • December 1, 2022

A hypnotist and a petting zoo were available to students as a type of break from school for wellness last year.

Wellness enrichment day needed in times of stress

Olivia Signorile ’25, Staff Writer • November 29, 2022

This week, you start preparing for your four examinations, along with hours of homework, projects and preparing for a presentation. All you want is a break from everything so you can clear your mind. Due...

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

Paige Tighe ’24, Paper Features Editor and Talia Varsano ’24, Paper Arts and Entertainment Editor • November 2, 2022

https://www.wevideo.com/view/2841642741

A popular costume this year is clowns where girls tend to where vibrant face makeup and attire ranges from ruched skirts to tight corsets.

Halloween heightens stress for teens, especially girls

Emily Goldstein ’23, Public Relations Director • October 31, 2022

I will always remember my childhood Halloweens filled with trick or treating, oversized onesie costumes and of course, buckets of candy. No one cared what they looked like and the biggest concern was how...

The topic of what pressure is doing to students was discussed on Wednesday, Oct. 19 at the Westport Public Library. Parents attended this discussion and took notes to listen to possible ways to help their children.

Library discussion reveals students’ mental health suffers from stress, pressure

Olivia Signorile '25 and Cassidy Gutman '25 • October 26, 2022

Positive Directions and Westport Weston YMCA held a panel discussion at the Westport Public Library on “The cost of success: what pressure is doing to our kids” on Wed, Oct.19. Experts from Positive...

Deciding between a costume to fit the vibe is always a struggle. Wanting to fit and not be judged but, still try to feel confident and stay true to yourself. Halloween highlights the psychological need to fit in and the stress that comes with it.

The stress of Halloween costumes

Ava Coyle ’25, Paper Opinions Editor • October 20, 2022

With Halloween coming up in only a few weeks, picking the right costume is on everyone’s mind. Finding a costume you can feel comfortable and confident in, but also fits with everyone else’s costume...

Appreciating small accomplishments: Finding positivity in times of stress

Abby Nevin '23, Web News Editor • September 20, 2022

AP Chemistry classes watch “Indiana Jones” since the completion of the AP college board administered test on May 2.

End of AP classes leaves students relieved, allows for fun learning experiences

Kiswa Khan ’23, Associate Managing Editor • May 13, 2022

One of a high school student's primary enemies is usually the AP classes they choose to take. Throughout the year, students are bombarded with homework, class readings, test dates, etc. With the conclusion...

The overcrowding of multiple assessments immediately following April break has dropped an unfair overload of work on students in a short span of time and has caused an unhealthy amount of stress for students.

A stressful time: finals, AP exams, honors societies and a cherry on top

Anna Diorio ’23, Broadcast Director • May 3, 2022

It’s the week after April break for Staples students and times could not be more stressful—especially for AP students.  Why?  Perhaps it's because of the back-to-back final exams that have...

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