Multiple Viewpoints: Technology and Librarians

We received this eloquent comment very recently: “Im terribly vexed by your untoward negative attention to the Library. The qualified and well-educated librarians are thoughtful and diligent. They harness the unwieldy world of information; insofar they help in its quest to accessible relevance for our young minds. You sound like middle-aged women on social security. Find a better way to express your frustration concerning LHS. Its not hard to not chew gum, moderate your voice, or place your flashy new Sigg at the door. Whalen and Anderson are human, and understand our struggle to adapt – we are all susceptible to a short temper, even folly . I think TSQ has a stellar forum to better the slanted image of the library. Please take advantage of this, and realize how fortunate we are to have such a wonderful and useful asset as the anchor of our school. Additionally, your slamming of LHS’ technology as a morass, festering problem is asinine. Our new machines that deployed across the school are now over three years old (Oct. 05 G5 PowerPC) and the server is burdened and quickly pushing obsolescence. Your cavalier disrespect for our students with visual impairment and learning disabilities stands out wonderfully when you deride and mock the SmartBoards, and related accessibility peripherals. Our school is behind the idealized, utopic alternative they boast, laminated on every wall. More-so, they hinder our collective advancement socially and professionally at the constrictive bounds of less than optimal technological outfitting. In an accelerated and advanced informational age, we ought to be equipped to the extent that our parents, teachers, taxes, and hopes would want.”

Let us respond:

-Our library is the crux of our school. The breadth of knowledge that the librarians possess is irreplaceable. Often times, this fact goes amiss.  We’d like to point out a recent poll we took on TSQ. Few students were pleased with the situation in the library. Others were nonchalant, but the majority, 65% of students who voted, believed the library to be a bit hectic. We attribute this chaos to the students. You bring up the point that we can adapt, and “Its not hard to not chew gum, moderate your voice, or place your flashy new Sigg at the door”. Certainly the students have a choice to make: either help make the library a better place by adapting to the rules, or resist these rules and make the library run less smoothly. While we believe we have the ability to adapt to the rules, there is a general consensus of discontentment with the library system. It is not the librarians, usually, that people are having problems with. It is the over-bearing sense of babysitting that has to go on in order for one to be in the library. Those that have been at LHS for multiple years have seen an evolution in the library. This year was drastically different with the new rule of signing in, to the bill passed by Senate for students to go directly to the library from study halls. For some people, the scrutiny of keeping track of where students are is a pain. In the end, we should be grateful for the incredible amount of freedom our school provides us, from open campus to the different courses offered. TSQ merely was making commentary about the library based upon general consensus. We, perhaps, should be appreciative a bit more about what we do have, and not what we don’t have. Which brings us to our next point….

-Technology: Often times at LHS, we do not stop to think about what we do have. We are fortunate to live in a community that supports its students whole-heartedly. We are fortunate to have computers in every classroom. We are fortunate for the access to databases, digital camcorders, projection screens, and what have you at school. The NEASC survey called our technology “inadequate”, and we were exemplifying that perhaps NEASC overlooked what we do have and focused more on what we don’t have. The administration has identified this technology gap and has in the works many projects to mediate such a gap. A new Internet server is being worked on for faster connection speeds. In the next coming year, an electronic system will be installed in the cafeteria to eliminate lunch tickets. Our tax dollars are hard at work paying teachers, paying for school maintenance, as well as for updated technology, albeit a worsening world economy. Not once did we “mock the SmartBoards” . For every subject taught at LHS, there is one classroom for the hearing impaired, each with sound-proofing and other acoustic-enhancing products. This may not be the most advanced solution to aid those who are impaired, but we should be grateful that we do have at least something. The administration is clearly showing us that they are attempting to fill this “technology gap”, and if they are attempting this, our technology should not be deemed “inadequate”. If you would like to read the NEASC report, click here: Lexington Public Schools. One thing this report does point out is that we have a mission statement but that it is not necessarily being fulfilled. You mention, “Our school is behind the idealized, utopic alternative they boast, laminated on every wall”. You are not alone in these sentiments, just as the NEASC Report showed.

To sum up: TSQ is your voice. We are glad to be generating thoughts as shown above.

On this note: remember, we are merely making commentary on life at our school based upon general student consensus. The articles written may not correlate to the writer’s opinion, so please remain respectful and refrain from attacking TSQ writers directly.

NEASC: New Revelations?

One day, last year, most students walked into school noticing newly placed laminated, shiny mission statements in every single classroom. Why, you might ask, was there suddenly an onslaught of mission statements gracing the walls of our school. The answer is: NEASC, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges; the signs were hung up in preparation for the NEASC Accreditation of our school.

The Facts:

After four years of preparation, NEASC members evaluated our school and recently published a final report of their findings. The evaluation included 51 hours of shadowing 17 students, 55 hours of classroom observations, and individual meetings with 34 teachers.

NEASC pointed out two targets of education:

1.Teaching and Learning Standards, which includes, mission and expectations for student learning, curriculum, instruction, assessment of student learning

2. Support of Teaching and Learning Standards, which includes, leadership and organization, and school and community resources for learning.

A summary of our school profile included:
-Ethnicity: 75% white, 17% Asian, 3.2% Hispanic White and 3% African American
-In 2005-2006, 345 failing grades were distributed. No one was expelled. There were 74 out-of-school suspensions.
-Our school has 88 Clubs.
-88% of students attend 4 year colleges. 5% attend 2 year colleges. 7% other

After reading the 71 page report in its entirety, the Shrinking Quad has a few comments.

“…the mission [statement] also emphasizes the development of healthy students in a supportive environment, and the faculty members and students struggle to promote a balance between this value and the community’s expectations that LHS will prepare students for entrance to the most highly selective colleges and universities…”

The NEASC report, in overtly jargonated language, highlights one of the problems that our school has: stress. A major cause of anxiety at school is the atmosphere of cutthroat competition and the desire to do better than our peers. The school has said that it is aware of the stress levels, yet little has been done to mediate this problem. Then again, there is not much any school can do about stress, as it is student created, and thus to some degree, is inevitable. For stress levels to really change in our high school, it must come from the students. And pigs will most definitely fly before that happens here.

“Academically able and motivated students thrive in this rich and challenging atmosphere, a few students; a few students may remove themselves physically or emotionally by repeatedly coming late, unchallenged to class, sleeping in class, or remaining passive while their peers are actively engaged in learning”

Certainly there are some students who are simply not motivated and are “remaining passive”, but there are also those who are academically driven who have days when they simply just don’t want to be at school. Doesn’t everyone have days like that? Was it fair for NEASC to judge students based on if they were asleep in class? What if those select few were just having an “off” day? Honestly, most of us never get an adequate amount of sleep, so excuse us for dozing off in class? The students here are pressed for time, always busy with extracurriculars and challenging curriculums– its pretty easy for us to become apathetic and tired. However, TSQ does recognize that sometimes the academic competition at our school is not always healthy, and thus, some people choose to not participate in school.

“…the use of technology to support teaching and learning is inadequate, especially given the community’s expectations that students will be prepared for the 21st century”

Our internet server may be slow, but we’d hesitate to say that the amount of technology is inadequate. In fact, sometimes too much technology interferes with learning. We have access to Smart Boards, projectors, new computers and other technological devices. We could use a bit updating here or there, but I think NEASC went a bit overboard about how awful our technology is at our school. I mean, the only thing we really need to know how to do is use a computer, and we think most of us have got that down pat. Smartboards are not absolutely necessary to prepare us for the 21st century. And even if we did have shiny new technological devices, it would in no way reflect the extent of the ability of the school has in imparting education to us. Learning is learning with or without all the contraptions of the 21st century.

“Faculty members feel many students take on too many activities and demanding classes. Counselors say that it is not uncommon for students to feel that their worth is connected to how well they perform in school and as demonstrated through college acceptances.”

Truth. I think many students can attest to this sentiment. Once again, its a deadly cycle perpetuated by us, the students.

“Librarians also collect and make available textbooks to students so that they can complete homework assignments…”

That is, if they actually let you in the library.

“Sewage seeping up through floor in workout room…inadequate ventilation of science labs…limited cafeteria space that means the cafeterias cannot accommodate all students for lunch, requiring students go off campus to eat or eat in hallways…general dissatisfaction with the 2002 renovation…visible signs of wear and lack of attention…At present, the custodians are limited in their ability to address more than the daily needs of the building.”

‘Nuff said.

Four years ago, Lexington High School was listed among the Top 300 schools in the nation. It’s appalling to see how far (down the list) we’ve come.

-Reader Requested Article

What We’re Listening To…

Here are The Shrinking Quad’s Music Recommendations for the Weekend. Hope you enjoy!
Note: We’ll be using Imeem to post our playlists.  However, it’s tricky for you all to listen because WordPress does not allow us to embed it into the post. If you want to listen to all these tracks in one place, follow the link, http://www.imeem.com/people/nNH-Ycn/playlist/W5Eka97A/weekend_beat_124126_music_playlist/ There’s a catch, Imeem requires their users to create a login to listen. If you happen to like our music taste, it’d be a good investment to create a log-in. Sorry for the hassle!

The Tracks
Warchild- Emmanuel Jal
Trick for Treat- Neon Neon Ft. Spank Rock
Around the Bend- The Asteroids Galaxy Tour
My Old Kentucky Home- KD Ft. Nappy Roots, Villebillies, and Goodfella
Parachute- Shugo Tokamaru
Make You Feel My Love- ADELE
Electric Feel- MGMT
Liquid Dance- A.R Rahman
The Anthem- Pitbull ft. LilJon
D.A.N.C.E- JUSTICE Ft. Spank Rock & Mos Def
Killing Me Softly with His Song- The Fugees
Love Lockdown ( T- 321 Remix)- Kanye West
Sunrise- Yeasayer
Passing the Hat- Cold War Kids
You Spin Me Right Round- Dead or Alive
The World Should Revolve Around Me- Little Jackie

Reflection: Mumbai Massacre

At the advent of Thanksgiving in Massachusetts, 7,626 miles away in Mumbai, otherwise known as Bombay, India, terrorists launched a large-scale attack against civilians. By setting off bombs in hotels and gunning down people on the street, they hoped the frenzy would stir Indian anger and lead to a war between Pakistan and India. Over 173 people were killed in the duration attacks.

The following Sunday, they began to end and the terrorists dispersed. We all came to school on Monday, and occasionally, students actually acknowledged these attacks. Although they were not in America and the amount of people who died were far fewer than 9/11, there was notable sense of apathy, or ignorance, among students. Few seemed actually disturbed by the attacks; life moved on.

It seems that the student body, and people in general, are compassion-fatigued. As the media continually bombards us with constant negative imagery of violence, disasters, and disease, we have perhaps lost the ability to have reaction to gravity of these situations. It’s just another car bombing, right? Just another wild tornado. Just another kid dying in a place hundreds of miles away. These days, it’s hard for people to feel empathy for others if they are not directly affected themselves.

That weekend, there was also an event posted on Facebook about wearing white on December 1st to to show respect to those who died from the attacks. On Monday, the amount of people who wore white were slim, in contrast to the sheer amount of green that seizes our hallways on Darfur Days. And, even then, one must wonder how many wore white clothing coincidentally.

This leads to the question whether outward representations of respect, i.e- wearing white clothing, really portray the true extent of which a person has actually internalized and reflected upon an events and its effects. Probably a really small quantity of us actually do. Events like these are supposed to change us, move us, and anger us. Yet, we continue to walk the hallways seemingly unaffected. After all, c’est la vie, right?

What is unfortunate is that it takes a major event like a terrorist attack or a natural disaster for us to reflect on our world. Every day, attacks of all sorts occur whether by a terrorist, a family member, or the weather. Most “attacks” go unnoticed or stay out of the public eye. It makes us wonder: if we are wearing white in the aftermath of a terrorist attack, what color should we wear tomorrow?

Multiple Viewpoints

The Shrinking Quad has received several comments recently that the we feel we need to respond to.

1) “The musket is better”.

This is personal opinion, but let us clarify the differences between TSQ and The Musket:

-We are an alternative source of news and reviews

-We are saving trees by having TSQ be an online blog

-We are taking perhaps a little less administrative-friendly angle in articles; because the blog is disassociated with the school, it gives us freedom to do so.

-We publish articles efficiently and quickly as possible, another strength of an online publication.

The Musket most definitely has its strengths and is a reputable school newspaper for a reason. TSQ is merely offering alternative way for students to access more news around campus. We do not seek to displace the Musket; this is not a competition, each publication has its own strengths and weaknesses.

2) “Isn’t this just like WTFYW magazine but less awesome???”

Similarly, the Shrinking Quad respects WTFYW. The magazine provides a creative outlet for students about anything through poetry, short stories, etc. The Shrinking Quad is more of a news source, as well as a commentary to life at school, with less of an emphasis on writing about personal emotions and experiences. Just as the Musket has its positive aspects, so does WTFYW. But we are us, the student body, TSQ.

3. “Wow. You clearly do not understand the LHS Senate, and you should do so before making some of these remarks. A few of my reactions: 1. “I don’t know about you, but it would be nice if more than 50 or so voices were taken into consideration in the passage of bills.” Ok.. If you would like to voice your opinion, then RUN for Senate! Do not expect the Senate to take the time and educate the entire school on certain issues. If you really care that much, and don’t trust your fellow classmates to vote for what is best for the school,then join. 2. “Apparently, we haven’t passed any bills since 2005.” This is false. In the 2007-2008 school year alone, the LHS Senate passed several bills. One of which gives underclassmen the opportunity for more studying time, by not needing to go to their study hall at the start of the block. 3. “Agreed. I thought we needed money too? Not to worry, LHS is probably suffering from a very prolonged case of amnesia.” Do not take out your frustration on LHS’ money issues on the Senate, as we really have no power on that. 4. I don’t know if you are aware..but X-Block was created by the Senate for the purpose of meeting during that time. Remember this next Wednesday morning when you get an extra hour of sleep. 5. Although you may laugh at past bills such as the Lavatory Bill and/or the Condom Availability Bill, all bills passed have the sole intention of improving life at LHS. The Senate has significantly improved Lexington High School over the last 20 years..and before you post an online blog going against everything Senate has worked fore, come check out a Senate meeting. You will be surprised to know how uninformed you really were when writing this article.”

We would like to clarify on this article: this was a humor piece, and as such, contained sarcasm. We appreciate all comments, but if you have a point to make, make it respectful. There is no need for ad hominem attacks.

We understand the options students have in getting their voices heard. They may speak to a Senator personally or visit during X-Block. However, the amount of students who know that they have these options available is small. Not to mention, many students feel that this is not an adequate way to get your voice heard because they feel uncomfortable visiting during X-Block, or striking up a conversation with a Senator in the hallway. Also, it was suggested that we RUN for senate in order to have a voice. Some people want a voice, but can’t or don’t want to run for Senate. We simply want a better outlet for our voices to be heard, or at least for more encouragement for us to use these already present outlets.

We are so very appreciative of X-Block.

We also understand that bills have been passed last year, however the Senate website is not accurate. We were bringing a tone of sarcasm to our article. The point was to emphasize that this information should and could be more readily available. The Senate has a website, and it is updated quite regularly, so we felt that this year’s agenda should be uploaded.

We believe we have valid criticisms of the current system, yet we think LHS Senate is doing a great job given the constraints it has faced in the recent years. However, something can always be done to make it better

While we certainly think having proper sanitary supplies in our restrooms is imperative as well as the option to get condoms in the nurses’ office, we were merely pointing out that our school does have legislation about these issues. We are aware that all bills passed are for the benefit of the student body. Perhaps you do not find humor in our article, but please understand that this was a humor piece, not necessarily a criticism of our Senate. Our Senate is valuable and TSQ is grateful for its presence.

4. “the secret service had to follow john kerry around everywhere too. you’ll notice that the presidents in the play were all white and were killed nonetheless. Assassins don’t discriminate, and we shouldn’t submit to their lunacy and change what high school plays get preformed because of your potential concerns.”

If you would like to comment, don’t patronize the writers. The “Review: Assasins” article never suggested that we “submit to [assassins'] lunacy and change high schools plays”. While John Kerry had secret service protecting him during his campaign, Barack Obama has already had assassination plots foiled. Please read this article from the Telegraph, for an example: White Supremacists \’plotted to assasinate Barack Obama in top hats and tails. The musical was an incredible production and left us thinking. We spoke to the director of the musical personally and discussed how in fact the very purpose of this musical was to leave the audience thinking. If you read the program that was handed out at the door to the show, the director’s note mentions this. In our article, we are merely pondering and reflecting. We don’t necessarily believe assassins discriminate, but we also don’t think that race doesn’t play a role in the foiled assassination attempts on President-elect, Barack Obama.

The Shrinking Quad hopes this clarifies things for those discouraged by our articles. We’re glad this blog is generating dialogue between students and we encourage you to continue to post comments. However, we have one policy: no ad hominem attacks. We appreciate all comments received but we also want to remind you to be respectful to the writers and to other students. If you have ideas for articles, or want to write an article, send us a message whether through honesty box or in a Facebook message. Thanks!

Review: Powderpuff ’08

It was only fitting that this year’s Powderpuff football game be played on a soccer field. Due to a potentially muddy football field (which had to be ready for the following day’s Thanksgiving football game), the Powderpuff game was moved to Lincoln (much to many guys’ dismay, for what else? the lack of mud). This relocation proved to be a bit inconvenient, as it was difficult to ensure that everyone had paid to watch the game, therefore potentially leading to the loss of revenue that class councils could have generated.

It was just as difficult to watch the game from a decent vantage point, most people had to sit on their super-cool trucks or stand on the top of the wooden guardrail in the parking lot. However, the spectators were enthusiastic and prideful of their class teams. Parents of Powderpuff members watched eagerly from the sidelines, as did many LHS alum.

Despite the move to Lincoln, the game went smoothly. No serious injuries were reported. The Junior girls put on a tough act, while the Senior girls were motivated by their win last year. Both teams had an immense amount of cheer, but both also lacked a lot of skill at actually playing football. But I suppose, after all, that that is the point of Powderpuff… Granted the girls only had a few weeks of practice, and most had little football background, the game went well. Perhaps not the most action-packed game of football ever, the score was tight through most of the game. In the end, the Seniors pulled through and claimed their title to victory for the second year in a row. Congratulations to the undefeated Class of 2009′s Powderpuff team! (People sure seemed to enjoy mentioning that the team was “undefeated”, as if the Class of 2009 had played powderpuff football for thousands of years…)

Here’s a tip for next year’s game: wait until the very last minute of the game to get something to eat or drink. The students running the food stand typically hand out leftovers for free. Why pay $2 for a tiny chunk of brownie when they’ll give it away for no cost?

Top 100 Growing Blogs-December 1st, 2008

The Shrinking Quad wants to thank YOU for your readership. Today, on WordPress, The Shrinking Quad was mentioned as one of the Top 100 Growing Blogs. In order to keep this blog YOUR voice, we urge you to send us your comments, article ideas, random thoughts, anything. Additionally, the Echo Project is now under way and we would be most appreciative to hear about YOUR secrets. Send us a message through Honesty Box on Facebook to let us know! The Echo Project

We’d also like to thank those that have given us feedback, thoughts, comments, and secrets through our trusty Honesty Box. Your thoughts are valuable to us, here at the Shrinking Quad !

Peace.