 by Adeena Aijaz '26
As the sun begins to shine over Connecticut and the presence of the second semester is heavy at WHS, many students find themselves making promises to change how they approach school based on their performance in the first semester. However, the first semester is not the only factor in identifying the differences in student habits during the second half of the school year. Looking toward the changing seasons in the second semester, the introduction of spring and sun has more of an impact on student behavior than initially thought. Kimberly Niemiec, the psychology teacher at WHS, remarks about the effects weather can actually have on student emotion during the school year. Mentioning Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise known as seasonal depression, Niemiec noted, “...The lack of light seems to be part of the issue for some people.” An obvious characteristic of the seasons occupying the second semester is the increase in sunlight during the day, as daylight saving time comes to a close. This vitamin D can do wonders for improving people's moods. This is because sunlight helps stimulate the brain to produce serotonin, the neurotransmitter whose job is to increase people's moods and follow the slogan “keep calm.” I looked at actual student opinions on how the differing seasons affect their experience during the school year academically and socially. When asked to rate how much stress they feel on a daily basis from 1 to 5 in the first semester, about 75 percent of students remarked feeling a 4 on the stress scale. Comparing these results to how stressed they felt in the second semester, most answers leaned toward the lower side of the scale, recording about a 1 to 3. The students were then asked what their favorite thing about the second semester was, and Vivian Huynh, a sophomore at WHS, commented, “With the weather being more happy, I get more happy.” This statement almost directly correlates with vitamin D and its effects on people's emotions. Although a question asked students overall if they feel happier or worse during the second semester and the majority picked worse, when asking one of these students what their favorite thing about the second semester was, they stated, “That school is almost over.” This allows space to agree that schoolwork and academic stress can heavily suppress these students' serotonin levels. Being inside for seven hours while peak UV levels happen can lead to a restriction in students' emotions when they are supposed to be happier as the weather gets nicer. Overall, the effects of the weather during the year have a prevalent place in our emotions. Possibly one of the most accessible resources when you are in a bad mood, take it upon yourself to walk outside if you’re feeling down for just 15 minutes. The sun can have a bigger impact on you than you think. So as the weather gets warmer, I hope that everyone finds a spark they have been missing these past few months.
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 by Emily Beaupre '26
Here is the edited version of the article. Edits have been made to correct mechanical errors, improve flow for a student/community audience, and ensure compliance with the provided Teachers influence every child they teach. Students spend either a semester or a year with every teacher on their schedule. That means teachers have five months to make an impact on the lives of their students. At the end of the 2025–26 academic year, Wethersfield High School says farewell to two of its teachers as they retire. Marc Pfister, a longtime supporting actor in theater productions and an English teacher, will be leaving. George Horan, who was a forensic scientist before becoming a science teacher, is leaving as well. These two individuals have left impressions on this school that will remain long after they’ve left. Pfister is moving to Georgia, where he will get back into writing, work outdoors, play a lot of golf and spend quality time with his wife. Horan is going to visit his daughters more and travel. He has been to 49 states. His last one is the least-visited state in the country: North Dakota. Horan said they give you T-shirts if you tell them it’s the last state on your list to see. Despite all the excitement of retirement, there are things these two teachers will miss. Horan will miss “learning new things from the kids.” Over the years, Horan has gained new ways of teaching from his students that he wouldn’t have thought of. Pfister will miss “the genuine learning and curiosity of students, especially those who realize the opportunity their education provides.” The students who actually care about their school careers are what make it fun for the teachers. Retirement means the unknown. Horan said that every time he started a new job, he knew what he was going to do. However, retirement means freedom—the opportunity to do things like travel to the last state on a bucket list. For him, that’s the scary part. Since he is retiring, Pfister decided to leave everyone with a final piece of advice. You are always growing and improving, which is why, in school, "It's okay to be where you are." They will be missed greatly by everyone at Wethersfield High School. However, the students and staff are wishing them well on the adventures these two teachers take next. By: Acacia Maliea Spence '26 As the Class of 2026 reaches the end of the line, we seniors are ready to start our futures and our real lives. At the same time, several teachers at Wethersfield High School are preparing to retire, marking the conclusion of their long careers. These educators have spent years shaping the lives of their students, and their absence will be deeply felt throughout the school community. Retirement is a major transition not only for these teachers but also for the students and staff who have built genuine relationships with them. Many of these educators have dedicated decades to supporting students, doing a phenomenal job both inside and outside the classroom. One of the teachers retiring this year is my math teacher, Dan Jensen. When asked about his experience at Wethersfield High School, Jensen said his favorite part of working with students was watching them grow over the years. “Teaching at Wethersfield High School has taught me so much patience and responsibility,” Jensen said. “Even though I’m retiring, I hope students continue to work hard and stay focused on their futures, just as I will be continuing my career teaching college at CCSU.” Longtime educator Richard Scoppetto represents a significant loss of the school’s "living history." While the Class of 2026 leaves to find their futures, the school must now work to maintain the welcoming culture these teachers built. Teachers retiring this year shared that while they are excited to move on to the next chapter of their lives, leaving behind the Wethersfield school community is not easy. Many plan to spend more time with their families, travel and even pursue other interests. The impact these teachers have made will continue long after they leave. Their lessons, support and encouragement have helped shape many of us into who we are today. As the June 12 retirement date approaches, students and staff alike are taking time to thank these educators for their years of dedication. With Scoppetto leaving, the school community faces a particularly hard impact because he has been a part of Wethersfield since before today's seniors were even born. Many local educators say his presence will be difficult to replace. “I’m going to miss the people and memories I’ve made at Wethersfield High School,” Scoppetto said. “Being a part of this community for so many years has become a part of me.” While their time at Wethersfield High School is coming to an end, their inspiration will last a lifetime. Their years of hard work and dedication have helped shape the school into what it is today.  By Ashlynn Vernile '26
After seeing all of the seniors at Wethersfield High School dress up for National Decision Day on May 1, a few questions popped up: Why are students who have said they are “tired of Connecticut and ready to leave” deciding to stay and attend local colleges? And why, exactly, are so many Wethersfield High School students going to the University of Connecticut? As seniors finally decide where they want to go and what they want to do with their futures, a distinct buzz fills the hallways. The senior slump has hit hard this year, but seeing everyone get excited about the future is encouraging. However, this excitement does not stop the questions. The goal is to uncover the deciding factors for many of our students and provide advice for the upcoming junior class. A review of student social media accounts revealed the top college decisions for this year's senior class:
These numbers do not come as a shock. It turns out there is a strong academic and economic reason for this Husky craze. For the Class of 2026, UConn was ranked as the No. 1 most valuable education degree program in the state, offering high financial aid to 83 percent of students and a high return on investment for specialized fields like education, nursing and engineering, according to 2026 data from Research.com. This distinction has proven to turn the heads of many local seniors. While numbers tell one story, students tell another. Several seniors sat down to share their unique perspectives on navigating the difficult decision-making process. Wethersfield High School senior Elijona Avdimetaj, who will be attending UConn this fall, initially dreamed of going to Fordham University in New York City but ultimately chose a different path. “The reason why I didn't end up going to New York was because of the financial aid letter,” Avdimetaj said. “It was like over $50,000 for me to attend, and UConn offered me a better option. If I want to get into law school, I can't be in debt already. I need to be financially stable.” This economic reality is widespread. In the 2025–26 academic year, the average public in-state tuition was approximately $11,950, while out-of-state rates averaged $31,880, according to data from Quantumrun. Wethersfield High School senior Grace Lara, who is also attending UConn this fall, found her deciding factors in campus life. “What made UConn stand out to me was the school spirit, which I am used to as a cheerleader, and I really like that,” Lara said. “Also their competitiveness for their games which makes it fun and entertaining. They are also really good at their sports too, which I like.” This process is not just important for current seniors. Wethersfield High School juniors will be going through this exact experience just a few months from now. Instead of worrying or feeling isolated, the upcoming class can look to the peers who navigated it first. Here is their advice for the journey: “It's okay to be different and save money,” senior Chloey Rodriguez said. “Don't feel like you need to follow your friends,” school counselor Matt DeGuire said. “Look over how much they are willing to give you,” Lara said. “Stay flexible,” Avdimetaj said. “College is just as much about personal growth as it is about academics,” DeGuire said.  Art Credit: USA Today By Jheyly Rojas Gonzales '26
Do you believe in the American dream? In my opinion, everyone does not have the same opportunity. People living in South America don’t have the same opportunities as people who live here. Latinos often lack stability and a voice to speak out. Many times in South America, women lack freedom or cannot even vote. Wethersfield High School English language learners teacher Sharon Woolery recalled her own family's history with immigration. “My mother didn’t want to come to the USA, but my father wanted my mother to come,” Woolery said. She said her mother did not believe in the American dream, but her dad trusted in it. Like all immigrants when they want to come here, he thought you receive safety, money, freedom and more opportunity. But when they arrive, they learn the true reality. In my experience, when I was listening to the experiences of others, I can say they have gone through the same things, just in different ways. For example, Woolery said that when her sister was in school, no one in her class could understand her. Sophomore Cami de la Cruz said her experience in school was equally frustrating because she couldn’t understand people and couldn’t speak English because she had just arrived. I think the American dream is about money, stability, safety and the freedom to have a voice, no matter what others think about you. When immigrants come here and see freedom, they want to witness and experience that word for themselves. They want to feel as if they are in a safe place—a place without danger. They want the freedom of expression. For immigrants, this means a new place to live without judgment. From my perspective, some people in the United States don’t get a good ending. Some of them get deported or even killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE. In 2026, ICE agents are everywhere, and they don’t seem to care about babies or children. They don’t care if they leave a baby without parents because a parent is deported back to their home country, leaving the child alone. This situation happens to immigrants all the time, and we all know it, but it feels like no one cares about it. But for some people, there can be a good ending. As De la Cruz said, “I came here because my family had a serious problem; there were people trying to take my family’s lives.” When she arrived, she and her family were finally safe, and there was peace for her family. Does the American dream really exist? YES and NO.  By Sara Beaupre '26
Between graduation and planning for their futures, most seniors are completely checked out once spring break ends. To signify the end of the 2026 academic year, Wethersfield High School seniors will travel to High Meadow Resort in Granby this May for an all-day event that offers catered food and many options for outdoor recreation. On a flyer High Meadow provided, the resort lists the following opportunities: an ice cream truck, fresh popcorn and candy, a rock-climbing wall, airbrush tattoos, swimming pools, dancing, mini-golf, water balloons, basketball and much more. One high school senior who plans on attending says, “I am going to the senior picnic because I want to get the most out of these last few weeks as a high school student. I think the senior picnic is a great way to do that.” She said she is excited to spend time with her fellow seniors and play some pickleball. Wethersfield High School English teacher John Martin gives his opinion: “Senior picnic is one of my favorite events to attend with seniors, because it is the one day I get to hang out with you without you owing me anything.” However, after conducting another interview, it seems some seniors report that they would prefer to skip the picnic altogether. For example, one senior reports that she is just not much of an outdoor person, and she would prefer not to spend nine hours in the sun when she could be lounging in her own pool at home. Staying home might be a good idea, as it is going to be almost 90 degrees that day. Seniors who attend need to be sure to bring sunscreen, drink lots of water and make sure to rest so as to not overexert themselves before the day ends. Buses will depart at 9:30 a.m. with seniors returning around 6 p.m., just in time for dinner.  By Rocco Colon '26
While many high school seniors spent May 1 donning college sweatshirts, a growing group of students at Wethersfield High School celebrated National Decision Day by committing to tool belts and blueprints. The school’s annual event, which traditionally focuses on four-year universities, has expanded to include students entering trade schools and paid apprenticeships. This shift reflects a national trend as rising tuition costs and high demand for skilled labor drive more graduates toward vocational training. For students like senior Luke Tinker, the decision to skip the traditional college experience was based on both passion and practicality. Tinker recently signed his commitment to a lineman apprenticeship program. “I’ve always preferred working with my hands rather than sitting behind a Chromebook,” Tinker said. “Not only am I earning money from my landscaping business, I will be earning a paycheck while I learn how to be a lineman instead of taking on student loans.” The trade school track often allows students to enter the workforce in two years or less. Fields such as plumbing, HVAC and advanced manufacturing are seeing record-high starting salaries due to a shortage of skilled workers. Senior Cayden Dejesus is taking a similar path. Gateway Community College offers an automotive program that Dejess plans to pursue after high school. "Trade schools are easier and cheaper than college," Dejesus said. While not all career-technical students head straight to a trade school, area community colleges offer specialized programs for those interested in specific industries. For students who feel lost or confused about entering the trades, Wethersfield High School offers several specialized courses to help them navigate their options. Classes such as construction technology, taught by longtime teacher Behn Sikora, help students develop hands-on skills while providing valuable career advice. While that class focuses on manual experience, the school's internship course, taught by career counselor professional Mark Danaher, teaches students about different fields, career strategies and professional opportunities. The course offers students a unique opportunity to shadow and intern at local businesses that align with their career interests. Through these diverse course offerings, Wethersfield High School continues to expand its support for students preparing to enter the skilled trades after graduation.  By Janelle Trujillo '26
Toes out Tuesday was a spirit day this past spirit week. Naturally, this had Wethersfield High School students buzzing. Spirit week is usually a blur—a week full of basic themes like color wars and crazy hair days. Ever since that Toes out Tuesday, I’ve personally noticed more people feeling comfortable wearing open-toe shoes. It’s gradually becoming more normalized. Compared to the week prior, when wearing open-toed shoes was considered weird, this spirit day created a movement among Wethersfield High School students. Toes out Tuesday wasn’t just a quirky spirit day; it became something more. It fought the stigma around wearing open-toed shoes to school. Over the past few years, feet in general have been viewed as strange or bizarre. Let’s be honest: seeing someone wearing Birkenstocks or Crocs with no socks is not a normal sight here at Wethersfield High School. Why is that? From 2018 to 2020, any discussion surrounding feet on the internet was essentially a meme—jokes like “feet-for-sale” became very common to see on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) or TikTok. On social media, feet seemed like they were destigmatized through humor; however, that was not the reality post-pandemic or in real-life settings. In a psychological sense, people naturally associate feet with uncleanliness. We walk on our feet, and they can be dirty. Because of the psychology behind the way we view this part of our body, opinions can split drastically, ranging from enthusiastic to repulsed. With these two perspectives in mind, it creates room for something called “irony poisoning.” Irony poisoning essentially means many people engage with online memes purely for comedic purposes, making it difficult for people within that group to distinguish if others are also joking or if they have a genuine interest. Right now, society views the topic this way: genuine interest is viewed as extremely weird, but making jokes about it is hilarious. Media aside, students here at Wethersfield High School have their own opinions about the questionable spirit day. “I did think that it was a weird spirit day for us to have, but it really did take away the stigma from people having their toes out,” Wethersfield High School junior Michaela Dizaar said. “Ever since then, I’ve seen so many more people wearing open-toed shoes.” Mariyah Smith agreed with Dizaar's observation. “Toes out Tuesday was a strange spirit day choice, but it definitely allowed more people to feel more comfortable having their toes out at school,” Smith said. “People are not self-conscious about it anymore.” Chelsea Gallares also shared her enthusiasm. “I feel free now,” Gallares said. “I feel less judged now that we’ve all realized that toes are actually fine, especially if they’re done.” After hearing from a variety of students, the overall consensus seems to be that this once-taboo topic has become more commonly accepted. Toes out Tuesday broke the barrier between toes being viewed as weird versus being normal. Much like Gallares, a lot of students are starting to feel more liberated. As the school year heads into warmer weather, it is perfect timing for students to wear their Crocs to school without layering socks. Student council president Leyna Rodriguez gave her input on the matter. “We saw it on TikTok,” Rodriguez said. “At first it was a funny joke, but we were like, ‘Why not?’ Toes should be normalized anyway.” April 28 marked the start of a movement. While slightly controversial at the moment, it became a huge step toward the normalization of freely wearing shoes the way we want to at Wethersfield High School—one pair of Birkenstocks at a time.  By Gabriel Rivera, ’26
National Teacher Appreciation Week has come and gone, and from May 4 to May 8, schools across the country celebrated their teachers in various ways. Wethersfield High School chose to honor its staff with a different surprise each day of the week. From letters of appreciation written by students to a prize wheel in the main office, each day's goal was to ensure educators felt valued and loved. “Teachers make a bigger impact on us than anyone else in the school,” senior Acacia Spence said. “They educate us, and they just want the best for us.” On Monday, teachers were invited to order a snack and have it delivered to their classrooms by administrators. Following Taco Tuesday, teachers were treated to a free breakfast in the staff lounge on Wednesday. On Thursday, students and staff wrote appreciation letters to their favorite educators. Finally, on Friday, teachers could stop by the main office to spin a wheel for a prize. When asked what the week means to him, social studies teacher Jim Miller reflected on the gesture. “It’s nice to know if the amount of work we are putting into things is appreciated by the students,” Miller said. Overall, Teacher Appreciation Week serves as an excellent reminder to show educators just how much the community values their daily dedication. By Dylan Cyr '26
On Wednesday, April 8, Wethersfield High School hosted its annual career fair, featuring roughly 60 businesses that set up in Gym A, ready to begin networking. Every year, Mark Danaher works diligently to reach out to different businesses and set up this incredible event. With the straight eight schedule, all four grades were given 30 minutes to meet with companies and learn about many different careers. The goal of these career fairs is to network with and learn more about different industries so that when students are ready to join the workforce, they are able to build important connections and relationships with others in the industry. Our WHS career fair does exactly that. Each featured business made an extraordinary effort to welcome students and help them feel comfortable and confident in an otherwise stressful environment. When it was my turn to explore the gym floor, I wanted to get input from different companies, asking them what their goal is and why they enjoy coming to the career fair. To start off, I first talked to Jennifer Morgenthau from Jennifer Morgenthau Architect. "Honestly our goal is to educate students about really what an architect is," Morgenthau said. She later continued, "I’m also here to tell students about the Student Design Competition that the HBRA puts on once a year". For the students who may be into architecture and had the chance to talk to her, they had the opportunity to talk face to face with one of the judges of the HBRA competition. I also had the chance to talk to a representative at SLAM Collaborative. "We really want to let people know about the profession of architecture which seems to be a little bit abstract at the high school level," they said. Later on, I asked these companies what their favorite part about being in the career fair was. Kyle Lentini from Downes Construction said, "My favorite thing is just being able to give back a little bit". My final interview was with the Construction Education Center, where a representative said, "This is one of my favorite career fairs to go to in the entire state. I love coming here and talking to the Wethersfield students because they all bring a level of energy and enthusiasm that you don’t see at every career fair". Now, even though all of my interviews are from companies related to construction or architecture, they—along with every other company that came on Wednesday—follow the same agenda: reaching out to the youth to spark inspiration and bring attention to careers they may not have thought about otherwise. The career fair is a great chance for students to explore their options while giving companies the opportunity to give back to the community.  By Sara Beaupre '26
One would think that the ability to check up on your grades whenever you want is a good thing, but is it possible that it is causing a slip in academic performance? Is it bad that students can automatically see how much their grades drop after one missed assignment? Would it be more appropriate to release a bunch of grades at the end of each week? Many students believe that it is a good thing that they can log in whenever they need to to see their grades. However, it would also be nice for students to be able to choose. There should be choices in the settings of PowerSchool to be able to choose when they want to be updated. Options could include receiving updates at the end of each week, every other week, or at the end of each month, instead of having the entire thing stuck on one updating system. Consistent access to grades is often considered a useful tool; however, when it is abused, students may begin to decide that their grade can handle a few missed assignments. The issue isn’t quite as clear-cut as it may seem. After conducting a survey among classmates, the consensus was that being able to log in whenever they need to is a good thing. This allows them to see what they need to work on and ask for help as a result. If grades didn’t update until a set time, it would be more difficult to get the help you need, as you would have no idea what you even need help with. According to the survey, one student said: “It’s very helpful for us to have constant access to our grades, so that we know what we need to improve and work towards that.” Logically, this makes sense, because if you are unable to see your grades, you will never know when you need to ask for help. On the contrary, when a student is absent, a zero is automatically placed in the assignment slot until it is complete, which in some cases tanks their grade. For example, one student said the system "causes stress, but I do like knowing what my grade is in order to know what I need to improve it.” They admit that the constant access to grades is daunting, however helpful it may be. Ultimately, students agree with having constant access to PowerSchool. As for the frequency of the updates, that is something each student should be able to decide for themselves. Whether it is a setting you can change at will or a prompt before you log on, it should be each student’s choice. However, PowerSchool isn’t only a student tool. Teachers and administrators also have their own version that could be improved. Mrs. Hasler, a WHS vice principal, stated that she thinks it would be cool to have a system that only updated at certain intervals. She mentioned that ParentSquare, a tool for parents, has settings to change the frequency of updates. It would be helpful if those settings could also be applied to PowerSchool. Even if the fix is as simple as allowing teachers to draft grades instead of them automatically being sent out, that would be beneficial for the staff. Similarly, if students were to receive their updated grades in a digest at the end of each week, it would give teachers more time to get everything done without the added stress of a constant battery of questions from kids wanting to know what they got on their last test. Being able to log onto PowerSchool whenever you want is good, but choosing when you see those updates should be an option. Perhaps it would be nice to have something you can control when it comes to grades. So, what is your opinion? Should the system be changed, or is it good enough the way it is?  By Emily Beaupre '26
Imagine needing to use the bathroom since first period, but not being able to during class because there is never time. Finally, during lunch, there is a line four deep between you and nature's calling. “People are doing things they aren’t supposed to” is all anyone says. The next day, it is the same thing. Suddenly, your only chance to relieve yourself since you got out of bed is gone. For some students, lunch is the only break in the day when they feel comfortable going to the bathroom. Those with heavier class loads might miss key lessons if they leave during instructional time. While study halls provide breaks, not all students have them in their schedules. Consequently, lunch is the only option for many. Having to wait in a line is more than an inconvenience; it is problematic. I developed two proposals to address this. First, during lunch, students in the library and music hall could use the bathrooms in the athletic wing, while students in the art and technology education hallway could use the first-floor bathroom. This would leave the cafeteria bathrooms free for students at lunch. My second proposal suggested opening the second-floor bathrooms if the cafeteria lines become too long. I spoke to Wethersfield High School Assistant Principal Tyler Webb, who explained the administrative perspective. “There’s a whole bunch of different factors as to why it is how it is," Webb said. He noted that many proposed solutions are not feasible. Staff members cannot always block off an hour and 20 minutes a day to monitor bathroom traffic. “They have stuff to do!" Webb said. Some bathrooms are also located in areas with less foot traffic, making it easier for students to engage in prohibited activities behind closed doors. Furthermore, redirecting students from the cafeteria to the first-floor bathrooms might simply create larger lines outside smaller facilities. Splitting the traffic often moves the problem to different parts of the building rather than solving it. The issue even dates back to the school's renovations. Because it was a renovation rather than a new construction project, there was limited "wiggle room" to build new bathrooms or expand existing ones. Administration members say they are as frustrated as the students. They understand the difficulties of long lines and short breaks, but they cannot easily implement changes. "It’s not as easy as we would hope it would be," Webb said. However, when asked what would happen if a feasible solution came to light, Webb said the administrative team would be open to the conversation, though there are many moving parts to consider. I went into Webb’s office with the mindset that bathroom lines are purely problematic. In response, Webb said, “It is dumb, but there is some sense behind it." I now believe he is right. There is only so much the administration can do, and currently, they are making the best of a difficult situation.  By Ashlynn Vernile '26
Seniors and juniors, prom season 2026 is officially here. We are made to feel that this event is supposed to be the “night of our lives,” but it is safe to say it has become a full-time job. As juniors prepare for a possible final dance at Glastonbury Hills on April 25 amid talk of a venue change, seniors are already locked in table wars and beach house budget disputes ahead of their June 6 night at the Aqua Turf. As fights brew, WHS juniors and seniors are left wondering: Is the excitement worth months of struggle? We spend dozens of hours staring at spreadsheets, arguing in group chats, and scrolling through dress shops, all for one night where we finally put the devices down. Juniors, this isn’t just a dance; it’s a high-pressure introduction to a high school tradition. I know April 25 stays a looming date on the calendar. This night at Glastonbury Hills is often less about the dance itself and more about surviving the "promposal" battle and gathering enough money for a ticket. "It’s a teenager’s event, yet not all kids have the money to keep up," junior Fernando Salcedo said. "I think they set it up so they can get the most money out of us, but I’m worried it’ll just be a waste of time. I'm choosing to skip the dance and just go out to eat or to the movies instead." Salcedo’s perspective shows that for many juniors, the excitement of Glastonbury Hills is not enough to outweigh the reality of a light wallet and the appeal of a stress-free night at the movies or the bowling alley. Seniors, movies have suggested for decades that this one night will make or break your high school career. Senior class president Leyna Rodriguez offered her input on the matter. "The Aqua Turf is honestly just for tradition—a ‘don’t fix what isn’t broken’ mentality—but it has become pretty broken," Rodriguez said. "We get complaints from parents saying, ‘But that is where I had my prom 20 years ago,’ while students are stuck dealing with the high costs and logistics. I tell people all the time that the ‘table wars’ don’t really matter, but the stress of the party bus and the $100 price tag is real. As much of a headache as it can be, you’re paying for the memories." Her perspective reminds us that even at the top, the "perfect night" requires an exhausting amount of finesse. It is almost impossible to go to prom alone without extra costs; the ticket price alone has made me second-guess my plans. Math teacher and junior class advisor Michael Miller provided some insight. "We're not sitting in the cafeteria or the gym," Miller said, noting that the higher price tag secures a location with views of the golf course. "That’s some of what that money’s paying for is location." To help offset these costs for older students, Miller added, "What I try to do is make the junior price a little bit more expensive so that I can make the senior less expensive. Whatever money's left over is put forth toward the senior prom." It is clear that the price tag is not just a random number; it is a reflection of how massive these productions have become. Between the clichés, drama, and dreadful costs, it can bring up the question: Is prom even worth it? Seniors and juniors of WHS are dealing with this war, but I say: Who cares! Do not feel pressured to go. "I think it's worthwhile to go to at least a dance, whether it's the prom or homecoming... just to be part of the school community," Miller said. "But if it's too expensive, it’s not the end of the world if you miss it." I promise this one night will not define your four years at WHS. However, if you want a night to dress up and feel mature—to just be teens in an era where screens have taken over—then go and enjoy every second of it.  By Janelle Trujillo '26
High school is a long journey, and junior year is often the most difficult mile. It is arguably the most stressful year in high school. You just finished your capstone, played sports all year, and joined clubs to build your college resume. Suddenly, you have to figure out your future, manage a first job, and navigate the road after finally earning a driver's license. On top of all that, you still need a social life. I understand the struggle. After managing those demands within just one school year, burnout is inevitable. The last thing you want is to make your senior year just as difficult. As a senior who has been through it, I am here to help you make your senior year a victory lap. There are many ways to ensure burnout stays in junior year. Here is how to make your senior year better: Tip 1: Create a balanced schedule Creating a schedule that sets you up for success is vital. Burnout happens when you pack too much into your day. Senior year is the last opportunity to take classes you are interested in. Prioritize quality over quantity; do not put too much on your plate. Take advantage of opportunities at WHS. "Take Mr. Danaher’s internship class. I was in a year-long internship that introduced me to so many opportunities. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing in the future; you learn valuable skills that you don’t learn in the classroom," said senior Ashlynn Vernile. Choose your classes wisely; your future self will thank you. Tip 2: Prioritize free time Make sure you have free time outside of school. Vernile emphasized the importance of finding balance. "I have to remind myself that I’m still a teenager. When you’re so stuck in schoolwork, you start to lose yourself. Give what you can give, but not all of you," Vernile said. By all means, be an active student, but ensure you have time for friends and family. Go bowling, go on a shopping date, or go roller skating. Building your college portfolio is important, but so is maintaining your sanity. Tip 3: Prepare for college applications early Preparing for college applications before the fall is a great way to lessen the load. Start your Common App, book college tours, get a head start on your essay, and apply for scholarships. Book college tours during spring break to get a true feel for the campuses. Sit down for 30 minutes a week throughout the summer to focus on your application. Applying for scholarships is also a great help, especially since some require essay submissions. Before heading out for the summer, ask teachers for letters of recommendation. Senior Elijona Avdimetaj reminds juniors: "While you're still in the heat of things, do anything college-related in the summer or at least start it. You'd be surprised by how helpful it can be." Taking these small steps before senior year starts will make the transition much easier. Create a schedule that works for you. Do not overwork yourself, take on work you are willing to complete, and do not forget to enjoy life. Set yourself up for success and end your high school journey on a peaceful note.  By Milena Brodowicz '26
Do you think spirit weeks are boring? Are you wishing we had more school spirit? Students frequently express disappointment in our school spirit, but thankfully there are ways to fix this. It is important to understand the root of the problem. Class President Leyna Rodriguez said she believes the issue stems from a lack of leadership. "People are embarrassed to participate, instead of taking action and leading," Rodriguez said. She also noted, "We would do more fun spirit days if people showed that they would participate." As Rodriguez suggested, we can increase school spirit by making participation enjoyable. Peers can do better to encourage each other and make it "cool" to show spirit. It might be awkward to participate at first, but once others see you, it will encourage them to do the same. Upperclassmen can take initiative and show younger students that having school spirit is fun and brings the community closer together. Currently, WHS struggles with advertising spirit weeks. Many students do not know about the events until the week has already arrived. This is an easy fix: School social media accounts can post more frequently and share their posts so that everyone is informed. Lastly, supporting athletes at sporting events is a fun way to show school spirit. Cheering at games and meets not only helps the athletes but also increases the likelihood of other students doing the same. Senior Isabella Korzinski said she enjoys her experience as a spectator. "I've never felt more school spirit than I have at games! They're a fun and easy way to support our school," Korzinski said. We should not be afraid to show our WHS pride. Do not wait for other students; take initiative and lead others. This school has the potential to have an awesome atmosphere, so let's make it happen.  Making a choice can be overwhelming! By Alex Harrison '26
The pressure on seniors confused about their plans for next fall is stressful and nerve-wracking. Multiple factors cause these students to overthink, including cost, housing, the unknown of a new place, time management, and making new friends. That being said, there is no need to panic. Each college and avenue has advantages and disadvantages; it just depends on which pros and cons affect you most. Costs of colleges keep rising every year, meaning student loans are becoming difficult to pay off. This debt often hurts graduates for years after they receive their degrees. A possible solution for some is Connecticut State Community College. This allows Connecticut students to get their associate degree without having to pay a penny through the PACT program. Requirements include completing the FAFSA and an online application, which takes less than 30 minutes. For students pursuing a bachelor's degree, this is a viable option that can cut debt in half. The most common schools for Connecticut students include UConn Storrs, Central Connecticut State University, Sacred Heart University, Quinnipiac University, Yale University, and Southern Connecticut State University. Tuition at these schools can be expensive and may include mandatory housing and food plans, adding thousands of dollars to student debt. On top of this, acceptance rates for some schools are significantly lower than others. To get a professional opinion, I interviewed Mrs. Bryan, a counselor at Wethersfield High School. Bryan said the choice is individualized; the best pathway is what the specific student thinks will help them succeed. She also stated that the military or trades are viable options because they include good benefits. Furthermore, Bryan noted that community college is a strong choice for those who are undecided since it is state-funded, allowing students to change majors without wasting money during those two years. UConn Storrs remains one of the most popular schools in the state. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the total cost for in-state students—including tuition, fees, room, and boardnis approximately $36,110. While out-of-state students pay significantly more, over 60 percent of undergraduate students receive financial aid. Freshmen at the Storrs campus are generally required to pay for housing and a mandatory food plan. Additionally, freshman residents typically cannot have cars on campus, as resident parking permits require 54 or more credits. However, UConn has multiple regional campuses that offer cheaper options and do not mandate housing or food plans.  By Leo Najarro '26
When fewer students showed interest in the Wethersfield High School dance team, Riley Carreiro, a junior and student leader, didn't just wait until the next tryouts. She took initiative and started reaching out to younger students to get them excited about joining. Carreiro and her teammates revitalized interest in dancing with an energetic clinic held last week. The event demonstrated how student guidance can help maintain the longevity of school programs. “I felt that it was important to close the gap between our team and the youth because we were getting less and less interest,” Carreiro explained. “This was because most dancers were not always aware of our team or the type of dancing we do. The clinic allowed outside members to get more info on our team and how we do things.” Carreiro hoped to ensure the team's future and develop new talent by establishing a space where younger students could engage directly with the high school team. “At first I was nervous because I thought I overestimated what I could do," Carreiro said. "But with the support from my team and coaches, everything went just as planned." Beyond learning a new routine, the young participants found a community on the dance floor. "She planned, organized, and created our youth nights; she even managed the Google forms and Instagram announcements," said coach McNeal. When asked about how Carreiro influenced the Wethersfield dance program, McNeal spoke about more than just her skills as a performer. "She represents the dance team positively, both on the floor and outside of dance team," McNeal said. "So she's a wonderful person." Carreiro has done more than just teach a few dance steps; she has built a foundation for the team's future. As these younger dancers look up to her, it’s clear that the Wethersfield High School dance team is no longer just surviving. Thanks to Carreiro’s leadership, it is thriving.  by Alex Harrison and Leo Escudero '26
At Wethersfield High School, juniors have a very important project called the Capstone. This is intended to prove how they have achieved the WHS Vision of a Graduate. The juniors have been working on the Capstone during their WeConnect classes and outside of school. Capstone is a graduation requirement and its own separate credit for all WHS Eagles. If you are in your junior year reading this, you have until April 1 to prepare and finish your visual project. You will have to present your project to a random selection of teachers. This may bring some stress, but don't panic—we have you covered. We are going to tell you what you should and shouldn’t do for Capstone so you are fully prepared and don’t have to retake it senior year. Scoring and expectations: The first important step in preparing for the Capstone is knowing how these projects are graded. You can get a score of 1-12, but you need to score at least 8 to pass. The project is split into three different categories: communication, collaboration, and problem solving, as well as separate grading criteria for body language, fluency, and dress attire. This includes elements such as good eye contact, wearing business-casual clothes, engaging with the audience, not staring at your slides, good posture, and not speaking like a robot. It is important to remember the main idea of the Capstone project is to prove how you have achieved the Wethersfield High School Vision of a Graduate, meaning how you have grown as a student in the past few years. Choosing your topic: If you are stuck on what topic you should choose, we recommend basing your project on something you’re passionate about or familiar with to make it easier to talk about and sell yourself. You want to think about stories or instances within this topic that can directly relate to problem solving, communication, and collaboration. If you have participated in sports or any clubs at WHS, this is a very good topic to choose. Expert advice: We interviewed Mrs. Mucinskas, the organizer of the Capstone project. When asked for tips for the presentation, she said, “Make sure you hit the three main categories, make sure you are a communicator, collaborator, and use specific examples in the project”. As a reminder, she said, “The grade is 8/12 to pass”. She also noted that students should use specific examples and make a good impression as if at a job interview, or else "you are going to end up in a class your senior year that no senior wants to be doing”. Regarding the dress code, Mucinskas said students should wear business casual, such as a collared shirt and dress pants or a business-casual dress. Mucinskas stated she has faith in all the juniors and believes they are all capable of passing their projects. Resources and final tips: This may sound like a lot of stress, but juniors are getting help with monthly meetings in the auditorium and lessons taught personally by Mucinskas. If any students need help, we recommend going to room 336 for person-to-person assistance during an eighth-period study hall or after school. My personal tips to all juniors: do not leave it until the last minute and have to stay up the night before your presentation. It is also perfectly fine to paraphrase what you have written on your visual presentation. The "sweet spot" for length is around nine minutes; I recommend practicing and timing yourself before April 1. Finally, remain calm, speak clearly, and show confidence. You should feel a sense of accomplishment and an understanding of how much you have grown as both a student and a person.  By Gabriel Rivera '26
Unfortunately, as the school year enters the fourth quarter, students are starting to lose motivation and stop caring about school. It’s important to stay present and motivated, even at the end of the year. As a senior currently counting the minutes until graduation, I know the struggle more than anyone. Frequent snow days drain the desire to re-enter the classroom; knowing that you’re almost done and out of here can make it worse. Sometimes when you’re feeling unmotivated, the solution isn’t just to power through blindly; we need to recalibrate. If you start feeling stressed to the point of wanting to give up, don’t be afraid to take a break. Pause the work for a little while and do something that makes you relaxed: Play a game, listen to music, or read a book. When you’re ready, return to your work. Just be careful not to overextend yourself. “I think one of the best ways to help kids stay motivated is just really keep your eye on the prize,” says Pam Harrison, a Wethersfield High School psychologist. “Know what the goal is, and then, sometimes it helps to take that goal and break it into smaller steps.” Harrison states that if you’re stressing about making it until June, break your workload up into small chunks. Try not to pay attention to June; just try your best to get through the week. Prioritizing your mental health over grade-related stress will actually improve your performance on difficult assignments. You might even get better grades because overthinking leads to second-guessing and avoidable mistakes. Remember, school isn’t a competition. If your friend gets a better grade than you, don’t overwork yourself just to one-up them. Just try your best, take your time and keep your eye on the prize. By Jheyly Rojas
Fake news is everywhere on the internet, on social media, in gossip, and in general conversation, but it is especially prevalent in news articles. This type of misinformation causes physical and mental problems, conflicts, and sometimes even death. Misinformation not only confuses, but it also kills. During health crises, fake news about dangerous home remedies has landed people in the hospital, demonstrating that a false headline can have real physical consequences. In society, this can be deadly. Furthermore, some people share gossip about celebrities online, which can generate threats and negative comments. The existence of fake news can generate distrust and insecurity due to false accusations. To combat this crisis, organizations like FactCheck.org suggest that readers practice "lateral reading." Instead of relying on a single Facebook or TikTok post, users should open other tabs in their browser to check if reputable news outlets are reporting on the same thing. It is also crucial to check the date of posts, as many fake news stories are simply old events taken out of context to generate fear or anger. To detect misinformation, it’s also necessary to check the author. If an article doesn't have a clear timeline, or if the website has an odd name that mimics a legitimate news source, the information is most likely unreliable. If a headline seems too good to be true, it probably is. "It's important to verify the source of information. For example, if you see something on TikTok, it might be true, but if you read it in a credible article, it's much easier to believe," said Wethersfield High School counselor Stepka. Stepka also recommends using the school library's databases for reliable information. When searching online, it is crucial to check the website's domain, such as .org or .gov, to ensure the source is trustworthy. Wethersfield High School student Alan Reyes shared a personal experience with misinformation. "Sometimes, when I see relevant things on TikTok, I share them with my friends without thinking," Reyes said. He explained that he is now much more careful because he once shared rumors on social media about a friend that caused serious problems. "Now I first try to verify that the source is accurate and valid," Reyes said.  By Janelle Trujillo and Ashlynn Vernile '26
SAT day approaches on April 22; the time to prepare is now. High school juniors are looking everywhere for help, and we are here to provide a guide on where to look. If you're still wondering what the SAT even is, essentially it is a standardized measurement of your college reading, writing, and math readiness. While submitting scores has become optional in recent years, some universities are again making the SAT a requirement. Universities are looking for a clear way to compare students from hundreds of different backgrounds. A strong SAT score will help you stand out during the college process. Understanding the SAT and its importance is the first step; the second is studying the material through a dedicated routine. Studying does not stop at school. From now until April 22, make it a habit to practice outside of classes. We recommend creating a consistent study routine outside of school hours and visiting sites like khanacademy.org and bluebook.collegeboard.com for tips and practice quizzes. Don’t sleep on the variety of resources here at Wethersfield High School. Between expert teachers and seniors who have already cleared the test, your support system is here. To help you navigate the final stretch, we sat down with WHS teachers and students to gather their best tips. English Strategy Jeffrey Roets, an English 11 teacher for both honors and Level I students, said, "Read the questions carefully, go with your gut, and don’t second-guess. Get a good night’s sleep and come in with the mindset: ‘I’m going to do as well as I can today.’" Roets also mentioned that teachers like Mrs. McKenna have spent time looking over pretesting scores to see where students need the most help, making prep more personalized. Math Strategy Jennifer Kumnick, the Math Department lead and a teacher at WHS, said, “Now is a good time to start—a little bit of time each day for a lot of weeks leading up to it. It is much better than cramming it. Cramming is the most popular studying habit that I would not recommend. You want to make sure you are really understanding and not just practicing problems.” Senior Success If you're still wondering if online testing and studying is worth it, senior Ellijona Advemtaj is a perfect example of success. "Focus on online sources—they’re more efficient," she said. "By using Khan Academy, my score went up by 200 points." Junior Advice Junior Delonnie Williams has spent a lot of time outside of class prepping for the SAT. When asked for advice for her classmates, she said, "Finish schoolwork during the day to save your evenings for prep. Keep sessions to about an hour; if you go too long without a break, it becomes too stressful." The SAT is one test in your academic career, but preparing for your future is crucial. Free online tools are accessible on your Chromebook, and WHS staff are available for tutoring or extra help sessions. WHS Blueprint Checklist
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