No bearded ladies or contortionists but one huge night to remember: Merit Academy had their first prom with a vintage circus theme. Even though there was no elephant, it was a great night. It was held at Bridge Academy, a beautifully renovated art studio in Provo. The location, a hall with a vintage feel, adorned with red and gold, freshman Eli Allen as DJ playing the tunes, the night was a mix of dancing, fun, and romance.
Prom royalty was chosen from the court of five boys and five girls as voted on by Merit students. Seniors Madison Reece and Haeleigh Royall, along with juniors Sarah Ascraft, Katelyn Boyer and Anne Marie Gallagher stood with seniors Skyler Harmon, Spencer Munson and Tom Rawle, and juniors Larson Ashcraft and Cory Foster to make up the 2009 Prom Court.
At 10:00, after much anticipation, the king and queen were announced—Spencer Munson and Sarah Ashcraft. “Oh being prom queen was just fantastic and perfect because my date was prom King. It was great dancing the night away with my best friends. It was such a great night,” said Sarah. While Spencer, also delighted in being prom king, said, “Being prom king was just so fun. It just made me feel so loved by all my friends.” Spencer and Sarah danced to “Love Story” by Taylor Swift, a song well known by Merit students!
The dance began at 8:00, but Merit students proved that they prefer to be fashionably late. Juniors Genna Mathes and Katie Boyer were the first two girls to arrive. Rather than being bored, Genna and Katie made the best of it. Katie said, “It was slightly intimidating at first, but then Genna and I heated things up and danced like it was nobody’s business. It was awesome. I am super glad I went.”
Prom was one hard event to plan. Anne- Marie and Sarah worked for months to plan this perfect night. Anne-Marie recapped that experience saying, “Prom was a lot of work and it took the amazing help of our volunteers and student government to make our first prom as great as it was. I felt really accomplished seeing everyone there and having fun.”
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Summer Events in Utah
Dane Cook--May 21
No Doubt with Paramore--May 23
Taking Back Sunday Concert--May 27
"Singing in the Rain"--May-August
REO Speedwagon and Styx--May 30
"West Side Story"--June 11-13
Viva Salt Lake--June 6
Boys Like Girls--July 7
American Idol Live! Tour--July 14
Incubus--July 16
The Fray with Jack's Mannequin--July 18
Nickelback--August 26
Dave Matthews Band--September 1
No Doubt with Paramore--May 23
Taking Back Sunday Concert--May 27
"Singing in the Rain"--May-August
REO Speedwagon and Styx--May 30
"West Side Story"--June 11-13
Viva Salt Lake--June 6
Boys Like Girls--July 7
American Idol Live! Tour--July 14
Incubus--July 16
The Fray with Jack's Mannequin--July 18
Nickelback--August 26
Dave Matthews Band--September 1
Summer Events at Merit
Bonfire at the Lake--May 23
Movie Nights--TBD
Dive-in (movie and swimming)--TBD
Bowling--June 9
Yard Sale--June 13
Hiking--June 18
Arcade Night--June 23
Driving Range--June 30
Park/Water Activities--July 7
Car Wash--July 3, July 17, July 27
"Singing in the Rain" (starring Mrs. Smith)--TBD
Grand Opening of Merit Academy's new building--TBD
See: www.meritevents.blogspot.com for more detailed information and updates
Email: meritevents@gmail.com to get on a mailing list for reminders and new information
Movie Nights--TBD
Dive-in (movie and swimming)--TBD
Bowling--June 9
Yard Sale--June 13
Hiking--June 18
Arcade Night--June 23
Driving Range--June 30
Park/Water Activities--July 7
Car Wash--July 3, July 17, July 27
"Singing in the Rain" (starring Mrs. Smith)--TBD
Grand Opening of Merit Academy's new building--TBD
See: www.meritevents.blogspot.com for more detailed information and updates
Email: meritevents@gmail.com to get on a mailing list for reminders and new information
Basketball--Jessica Foster and John Southworth
This year, the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams proved that even though they were a first year program, that they are a growing force.
The girls’ team ended their season with a record of five wins and eight losses. Sophomore Obnette Woodward said of being on the team, “It was awesome I loved it. I got in shape. Our coaches weren’t overly strict, so we had a great time and still learned a lot from them.” Kelsey Fletcher, sophomore, added, “It was a fun season because of how the team played well together and got along to help everyone had the fun of going to the tournament.” Despite a rough road as a first year team and a losing record, the girls felt successful as they improved their skills and had a lot of fun playing together.
The boys’ team ended their season with a record of eight wins and ten losses. One of the biggest takeaways for the boys was the feeling that they all grew as a team and as individual players. Carver Davis, sophomore commented on the extensive training they went through saying, “Even though we had to run I’m glad; now I’m in the best shape of my life.”
Thanks to stellar coaches, Chris O’Neil and Rob Durant, the team kept growing in number as more boys wanted on the team throughout the season. Freshman Kyle Dwiggins said of his experience: “The coaches were great! I learned a lot from them.”
Everyone on both teams agreed that they played hard and had a lot of fun doing it.
The girls’ team ended their season with a record of five wins and eight losses. Sophomore Obnette Woodward said of being on the team, “It was awesome I loved it. I got in shape. Our coaches weren’t overly strict, so we had a great time and still learned a lot from them.” Kelsey Fletcher, sophomore, added, “It was a fun season because of how the team played well together and got along to help everyone had the fun of going to the tournament.” Despite a rough road as a first year team and a losing record, the girls felt successful as they improved their skills and had a lot of fun playing together.
The boys’ team ended their season with a record of eight wins and ten losses. One of the biggest takeaways for the boys was the feeling that they all grew as a team and as individual players. Carver Davis, sophomore commented on the extensive training they went through saying, “Even though we had to run I’m glad; now I’m in the best shape of my life.”
Thanks to stellar coaches, Chris O’Neil and Rob Durant, the team kept growing in number as more boys wanted on the team throughout the season. Freshman Kyle Dwiggins said of his experience: “The coaches were great! I learned a lot from them.”
Everyone on both teams agreed that they played hard and had a lot of fun doing it.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Experience in the Portables--Chelsea Allen
While grateful for the use of the portables, Merit Academy students and faculty are ready for their own building. At the beginning of the school year, Merit jumped from place to place while the portables were being arranged. From Hobble Creek, to UVU and to the Marriott, everyone is happy to finally be settled at one location.
Class in the portables is different from public schools, but we make the most of the small rooms. Inside of every room is an array of tables, chairs and a large white board. Jossalyn Jensen, a Junior, said, “It can be a very interesting experience, It's a little harder to have class in portables, but when you go outside to go to your next class, it's nice to get some fresh air instead of being inside all day.”
With many classes that already use all the portables, students have the choice between eating lunch in the portables or risking the weather and eating outside. Teachers will be even more appreciative of the new building that will include a nice, large lunchroom. Mrs. Hunt said, “The portable's carpets are the ultimate lunch menu, they have every nutrient possible on and smashed in them.”
The portables have, however, been used not only for school but for activities afterwards. Every so often, a movie night is held in Ms. Meyerson's and Mrs. Ballard's portable. The ______ dance was held in Mr. Pyeatt's and Mrs. Reber's portable. Merit Academy's fund raiser carnival was also held in several portables. Mr. Emory naturally took advantage of the portables by pulling pranks on just about every teacher at Merit and put broken fire detectors in abnormal places in other portables. Teachers and students searched every inch of the rooms to find the source of the loud beeping noise. All of these activities were very successful and not to mention fun.
With a whole year of school experience in the portables, Merit's students and faculty will look back on those memories and be very grateful for the building. Mr. Brady said, “Portables are like your middle school girlfriends, you never miss them.” But until then, Merit will do it's best to have as much fun as possible in the portables.
Class in the portables is different from public schools, but we make the most of the small rooms. Inside of every room is an array of tables, chairs and a large white board. Jossalyn Jensen, a Junior, said, “It can be a very interesting experience, It's a little harder to have class in portables, but when you go outside to go to your next class, it's nice to get some fresh air instead of being inside all day.”
With many classes that already use all the portables, students have the choice between eating lunch in the portables or risking the weather and eating outside. Teachers will be even more appreciative of the new building that will include a nice, large lunchroom. Mrs. Hunt said, “The portable's carpets are the ultimate lunch menu, they have every nutrient possible on and smashed in them.”
The portables have, however, been used not only for school but for activities afterwards. Every so often, a movie night is held in Ms. Meyerson's and Mrs. Ballard's portable. The ______ dance was held in Mr. Pyeatt's and Mrs. Reber's portable. Merit Academy's fund raiser carnival was also held in several portables. Mr. Emory naturally took advantage of the portables by pulling pranks on just about every teacher at Merit and put broken fire detectors in abnormal places in other portables. Teachers and students searched every inch of the rooms to find the source of the loud beeping noise. All of these activities were very successful and not to mention fun.
With a whole year of school experience in the portables, Merit's students and faculty will look back on those memories and be very grateful for the building. Mr. Brady said, “Portables are like your middle school girlfriends, you never miss them.” But until then, Merit will do it's best to have as much fun as possible in the portables.
Movie Review--Chelsea Allen
From the director that brought us 28 Days Later and Memento, Danny Boyle gives us a new thrilling and exciting adventure. Slumdog Millionaire surely deserves it's Academy award for best picture. Because of its different and new camera work, superb acting, awesome soundtrack and moving story, this really is the must see movie of the year.
Slumdog Millionaire is the story of Jamal Malik an 18 year old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, India, who is about to win 20 million rupees on India's versian of "Who Wants To be A Millionaire." But when the show ends for the night, he is arrested on suspicion of cheating and to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the police his life story. Each chapter in his story reveals how he learned the answers to the questions. So why is this young man, who has no apparent desire for riches, on the game show? When the show returns the next day and Jamal is asked the final question, the police and sixty million viewers are about to find out.
A congratulations must be said for the actors of the film, who were believable and never broke character. Even a few of them, young Salim (Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail) and young Latika (Rubina Ali), really live in the slums of India. Dev Patel who plays Jamal, Freida Pinto who plays Latika, Madhur Mittal who plays Salim and Anil Kapoor who plays Prem Kumar the host of India's “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” were very true to their character and made the movie even more enjoyable.
Adding together the acting, music you get the wonderful story of Slumdog Millionaire. This is one movie that would be a great addition to a collection of classics, one movie that is a must see and a must have. It is rated R for violence, disturbing images and language. But do not let that turn you away, order it from CleanFlix if you have to. You don't have to be a genius to see that this is a great movie.
Slumdog Millionaire is the story of Jamal Malik an 18 year old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, India, who is about to win 20 million rupees on India's versian of "Who Wants To be A Millionaire." But when the show ends for the night, he is arrested on suspicion of cheating and to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the police his life story. Each chapter in his story reveals how he learned the answers to the questions. So why is this young man, who has no apparent desire for riches, on the game show? When the show returns the next day and Jamal is asked the final question, the police and sixty million viewers are about to find out.
A congratulations must be said for the actors of the film, who were believable and never broke character. Even a few of them, young Salim (Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail) and young Latika (Rubina Ali), really live in the slums of India. Dev Patel who plays Jamal, Freida Pinto who plays Latika, Madhur Mittal who plays Salim and Anil Kapoor who plays Prem Kumar the host of India's “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” were very true to their character and made the movie even more enjoyable.
Adding together the acting, music you get the wonderful story of Slumdog Millionaire. This is one movie that would be a great addition to a collection of classics, one movie that is a must see and a must have. It is rated R for violence, disturbing images and language. But do not let that turn you away, order it from CleanFlix if you have to. You don't have to be a genius to see that this is a great movie.
Hallways--Jossalyn Jensen
The “hallways” of Merit College Preparatory Academy are extremely unique and have hosted a number of activities during Merit’s first year.
For starters, the “hallways” are outdoor because our classrooms are portable due to the fact that our school was still being built while we studied and learned (or at least attended school) on site. Sometimes you had to be careful when walking to your next class because of a football that might happen to fly your way from the hands of our many sports lovers who enjoyed practicing their skills during school hours. Or the object to dodge might be a snowball when Utah winter weather was predictable or Utah spring weather was predictably unpredictable. Sometimes lacrosse was played during lunch by our lacrosse fans. Rugby balls were also common due to the large number of rugby players from the local team that attend our school.
However, dodging balls is not the only activity that happens in Merit’s “hallways.” The “hallways” have also been the site of school fundraisers, parties, dances, random tackles between our energetic male freshman, hanging out with friends, waiting for parents to pick up, and the show of affection by certain students that happen to be in relationships. Some students even brought bikes or scooters.
A more common mode of transportation however was longboards and skateboards. Overall students really enjoyed the atmosphere of our “hallways” and the “chill” way in which we can all interact without having to feel cramped and claustrophobic. Sometimes our “hallways” were empty during lunch because of a foot of frozen H2O that was never scraped off after weeks of the snow that never stopped falling or maybe a spring day that started off beautiful and sunny then turned bone chillingly windy or sometimes even snowy. This caused sophomore John Southworth to complain about the day that “there was a blizzard and [he] had to get lunch in the storm.” Junior Aubrey Royall also complained about some of her experiences saying, “It was freezing and we had to walk to class. It sucked.”
Despite the complaints, overall everyone enjoyed our hallways even if it’s just because you can get a breath of fresh air before going to your next class. Our outdoor hallways also served as our gym, hosting PE activities. Some activities that students like sophomore John Southworth liked to do in Merit’s “hallways” were “talking to friends and eating lunch when the weather is good.” Junior Chelsea Allen added, “When you go into the hallways and you see everyone around, it makes the atmosphere feel more like a school.” Freshman Asher Chapman contributed that his favorite part of the atmosphere is that “everybody is nice.” The most common descriptions of Merit hallways are: Big, busy, hot and cold, muddy, large, natural, outdoorsy, and chill. In response to a question asking what he enjoyed about our hallways, sophomore Carver Davis said, “I like it. It’s open and I can go out and get fresh air.”
Most students really liked our school, its atmosphere, and our “hallways” and many are planning to attend next year even though our hallways will be real.
For starters, the “hallways” are outdoor because our classrooms are portable due to the fact that our school was still being built while we studied and learned (or at least attended school) on site. Sometimes you had to be careful when walking to your next class because of a football that might happen to fly your way from the hands of our many sports lovers who enjoyed practicing their skills during school hours. Or the object to dodge might be a snowball when Utah winter weather was predictable or Utah spring weather was predictably unpredictable. Sometimes lacrosse was played during lunch by our lacrosse fans. Rugby balls were also common due to the large number of rugby players from the local team that attend our school.
However, dodging balls is not the only activity that happens in Merit’s “hallways.” The “hallways” have also been the site of school fundraisers, parties, dances, random tackles between our energetic male freshman, hanging out with friends, waiting for parents to pick up, and the show of affection by certain students that happen to be in relationships. Some students even brought bikes or scooters.
A more common mode of transportation however was longboards and skateboards. Overall students really enjoyed the atmosphere of our “hallways” and the “chill” way in which we can all interact without having to feel cramped and claustrophobic. Sometimes our “hallways” were empty during lunch because of a foot of frozen H2O that was never scraped off after weeks of the snow that never stopped falling or maybe a spring day that started off beautiful and sunny then turned bone chillingly windy or sometimes even snowy. This caused sophomore John Southworth to complain about the day that “there was a blizzard and [he] had to get lunch in the storm.” Junior Aubrey Royall also complained about some of her experiences saying, “It was freezing and we had to walk to class. It sucked.”
Despite the complaints, overall everyone enjoyed our hallways even if it’s just because you can get a breath of fresh air before going to your next class. Our outdoor hallways also served as our gym, hosting PE activities. Some activities that students like sophomore John Southworth liked to do in Merit’s “hallways” were “talking to friends and eating lunch when the weather is good.” Junior Chelsea Allen added, “When you go into the hallways and you see everyone around, it makes the atmosphere feel more like a school.” Freshman Asher Chapman contributed that his favorite part of the atmosphere is that “everybody is nice.” The most common descriptions of Merit hallways are: Big, busy, hot and cold, muddy, large, natural, outdoorsy, and chill. In response to a question asking what he enjoyed about our hallways, sophomore Carver Davis said, “I like it. It’s open and I can go out and get fresh air.”
Most students really liked our school, its atmosphere, and our “hallways” and many are planning to attend next year even though our hallways will be real.
Dress Code--Stephanie Juarez and Jennifer Olsen
The dress code at Merit Academy has caused quite a bit of controversy. Opinions on dress code are usually very passionate, whether it’s for or against. Right now the dress code consists of collared shirts, no jeans, and close-toed, solid colored shoes. Since students are allowed various colors and styles, the overall goal isn’t to make everyone look the same, it’s to keep everyone looking, and more importantly, acting, professionally.
Although it took some getting used to, many students who originally disliked the dress code have come to love it. Freshman Kassidy Powell appreciates the high standard of dress. She said, “The school dress code is a great way to keep the students on track and focused. I love the feeling of being all dressed up and ready to go. Keep it up Merit!
One of the biggest reasons for the dress code is that it keeps MCPA keeps students and teachers focused. Some of Mr. Pyeatt’s math classes conducted the same quiz on two different days, one day with free dress and one day with dress code, and the scores proved what the board and staff already believed: students perform better when they’re dressed better.
Since the dress code allows a lot of flexibility, students have taken it upon themselves to add personality to their outfits. Some even look at it as playing dress up every day. Girls dress in cute skirts, blouses, dresses, and creative accessories. Boys look better, not to mention more attractive, when they are in dress code. When they dress in nice pants and classy collared shirts, they look like they care more about themselves and their hygiene.
Another benefit of the dress code is that people can be judged less on their clothes and more on what matters. Junior Natasha Taylor agreed saying, “I like the feeling of not having cliques because of the clothes people wear. I feel we are all equal with the dress code.”
The biggest reason students want the dress code to stay the same for upcoming years is because both students and teachers look professional. It makes our school unique and higher class.
Although it took some getting used to, many students who originally disliked the dress code have come to love it. Freshman Kassidy Powell appreciates the high standard of dress. She said, “The school dress code is a great way to keep the students on track and focused. I love the feeling of being all dressed up and ready to go. Keep it up Merit!
One of the biggest reasons for the dress code is that it keeps MCPA keeps students and teachers focused. Some of Mr. Pyeatt’s math classes conducted the same quiz on two different days, one day with free dress and one day with dress code, and the scores proved what the board and staff already believed: students perform better when they’re dressed better.
Since the dress code allows a lot of flexibility, students have taken it upon themselves to add personality to their outfits. Some even look at it as playing dress up every day. Girls dress in cute skirts, blouses, dresses, and creative accessories. Boys look better, not to mention more attractive, when they are in dress code. When they dress in nice pants and classy collared shirts, they look like they care more about themselves and their hygiene.
Another benefit of the dress code is that people can be judged less on their clothes and more on what matters. Junior Natasha Taylor agreed saying, “I like the feeling of not having cliques because of the clothes people wear. I feel we are all equal with the dress code.”
The biggest reason students want the dress code to stay the same for upcoming years is because both students and teachers look professional. It makes our school unique and higher class.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Lacrosse--Jessica Foster
Even though Merit Academy didn’t have its own lacrosse team, lacrosse was the most popular sport at the school. Many Merit students played for Spanish Fork Warriors on either the junior varsity or varsity teams. The junior varsity won two games and lost nine. The varsity won two and lost ten, but the players still had a lot of fun and never gave up. They kept working hard, and for being a first year team, they played really well.
When you look at the boys on the lacrosse team, one thing is obvious—lacrosse boys like showing off their skills. “Chicks dig guys that play lacrosse!” said Darren Jensen, freshman. Junior Cory Foster had additional motivation: “I love playing in the games. I like them, because they are really competitive and I am a competitive person.”
Even though the records aren’t impressive, the games were incredibly intense, full of aggressive hits and high adrenaline. The best part of lacrosse, like most sports, were the games. “I like the games because you don’t know the kids on the other teams so I don’t feel so bad if I hit them,” said Josh Bladh, sophomore.
The biggest weakness for the team seemed to be the defense. However, the boys didn’t let that discourage them, instead they let it fire them up for next year. “We really need to practice on our throwing and the catching because the ball is on the ground more than it is in our lacrosse sticks and in the air,” said Darren Jensen, freshman.
With the popularity of the Spanish Fork Warriors, everyone is rooting for a team at Merit. Cole Halladay, another freshman, said “I would want there to be a team for Merit so that we can have more people from our school playing and not more from Spanish Fork.” Since on any given day, you can see a number of students playing lacrosse outside during lunch, a Merit lacrosse program would make a lot of students very happy.
When you look at the boys on the lacrosse team, one thing is obvious—lacrosse boys like showing off their skills. “Chicks dig guys that play lacrosse!” said Darren Jensen, freshman. Junior Cory Foster had additional motivation: “I love playing in the games. I like them, because they are really competitive and I am a competitive person.”
Even though the records aren’t impressive, the games were incredibly intense, full of aggressive hits and high adrenaline. The best part of lacrosse, like most sports, were the games. “I like the games because you don’t know the kids on the other teams so I don’t feel so bad if I hit them,” said Josh Bladh, sophomore.
The biggest weakness for the team seemed to be the defense. However, the boys didn’t let that discourage them, instead they let it fire them up for next year. “We really need to practice on our throwing and the catching because the ball is on the ground more than it is in our lacrosse sticks and in the air,” said Darren Jensen, freshman.
With the popularity of the Spanish Fork Warriors, everyone is rooting for a team at Merit. Cole Halladay, another freshman, said “I would want there to be a team for Merit so that we can have more people from our school playing and not more from Spanish Fork.” Since on any given day, you can see a number of students playing lacrosse outside during lunch, a Merit lacrosse program would make a lot of students very happy.
PDA--Obnette Woodward
Have you ever walked down the street and heard, “Wow Mom! Look at those people acting really nasty, what are they doing?” Or walked around school and thought, “Wow, I really wish I didn’t have to see this.” Public displays of affection, PDA, “get a room” behavior includes holding hands, hugging, and kissing in public, specifically at Merit Academy.
Most people, both those who are single and those in relationships, tend to have strong negative feelings towards PDS. Senior Spencer munson said,“PDA is disgusting and if you like PDA then you probably also like Hugh Jackman.” Haeleigh Royall, another senior, confirmed, “I hate it. It’s gross. If it’s a hug, that’s okay, but I see tongues…” When freshman Kayli Chambers said, “I don’t like coming to school and having the first thing I see be someone making out,” Mr. Tobias Emory responded, “Oh, I do. Wait. No. False. It’s gross.”
Though couples seem to think that PDA is romantic, it tends to come off as something different. Your fellow students may walk past signs of PDA and act as if they aren’t bothered, but on the inside a lot of people are gagging at the sight of it. Major, over the top PDA just makes the couple look incredibly immature or. Why do they feel the need to make everyone else see things like that? Sophomore Kat Hays said of overly done PDA, “I think it’s a waste of time and should be kept behind doors. Nobody wants to see people doing that.” It makes it seem like they are just trying to show off their love to everyone else rather than just express it to one another. In other words: keep it PG-rated, people. I am sure you don’t want your mother to see her kid eating someone else’s face off. You also don’t want to attract unwanted attention from your classmates. As senior Madison Reece said, “Sometimes I want to throw rocks at them.”
A lot of teens these days think that just because they think they love each other they have to be making out or all over each other. However, freshman Braxton Nelson countered, “Umm I think they should tone it down. They can kiss and hug, but if they’re slammed up against the wall and all that, nah…”
Most people, both those who are single and those in relationships, tend to have strong negative feelings towards PDS. Senior Spencer munson said,“PDA is disgusting and if you like PDA then you probably also like Hugh Jackman.” Haeleigh Royall, another senior, confirmed, “I hate it. It’s gross. If it’s a hug, that’s okay, but I see tongues…” When freshman Kayli Chambers said, “I don’t like coming to school and having the first thing I see be someone making out,” Mr. Tobias Emory responded, “Oh, I do. Wait. No. False. It’s gross.”
Though couples seem to think that PDA is romantic, it tends to come off as something different. Your fellow students may walk past signs of PDA and act as if they aren’t bothered, but on the inside a lot of people are gagging at the sight of it. Major, over the top PDA just makes the couple look incredibly immature or. Why do they feel the need to make everyone else see things like that? Sophomore Kat Hays said of overly done PDA, “I think it’s a waste of time and should be kept behind doors. Nobody wants to see people doing that.” It makes it seem like they are just trying to show off their love to everyone else rather than just express it to one another. In other words: keep it PG-rated, people. I am sure you don’t want your mother to see her kid eating someone else’s face off. You also don’t want to attract unwanted attention from your classmates. As senior Madison Reece said, “Sometimes I want to throw rocks at them.”
A lot of teens these days think that just because they think they love each other they have to be making out or all over each other. However, freshman Braxton Nelson countered, “Umm I think they should tone it down. They can kiss and hug, but if they’re slammed up against the wall and all that, nah…”
Laziness--Sydney Joyner
We all know that teenagers today are lazier than ever. And Merit Academy has not been immune to this plague. Students who actually turned in work or studied for tests were harder to find than a non-Taylor Swift song on Mr. Hatfield’s ipod. Their excuse was ‘I forgot,” or “I didn’t want to.”
Yearbook conducted a survey on excuses for not having homework. The overwhelming excuse was “I didn’t feel like doing it.”
Just walk around our campus at Merit Academy and you’ll see signs of laziness. Our student store was closed for two weeks because of all the trash on the school grounds. One whole mentoring class was devoted to cleaning up the campus, because students wouldn’t take the initiative to do it themselves.
Hand in hand with being lazy, students have also struggled with being rude and inconsiderate. Miss Meyerson and Ms. Cox were a couple of teachers at the receiving end of the disrespect. Students were inconsiderate of the teacher’s feelings. They talked back, stole things, and didn’t do the work that teachers assigned. It got to the point where Miss Myerson had every single one of her students write a letter of apology to a teacher and make a promise to do better in the future.
Sure enough students did just that. They got better.
The campus is cleaner, but still has a lot of work to do. Sophomore, Mahonri Tukuafu said, “It makes our school look so much worse to students from other schools.” Sarah Ashcraft, junior, agreed, “It doesn’t reflect how great Merit really is. It gives off a bad vibe.”
Students are starting to show teachers the respect they deserve, but again, we still need to keep working at it. Rather than doing pranks to teachers that students like, they’re writing kind notes, bringing in small tokens of appreciation, and paying more attention in class. Miss Meyerson said, “I realize that when kids pull pranks, they’re doing it to be funny not malicious, so I try not to take it personally. But it brightens my day so much more when I get notes, pictures, and even baked goods. That’s a much nicer way to show appreciation!”
Additionally, teachers have ‘cracked the whip’ on late work. Some teachers responded to the laziness of the first semester by expecting MORE not less. Miss Cox no longer accepted late work during the second semester. She commented, “Last semester, I was so lenient. I accepted all late work, anytime. Now, I take it all on a case-by-case basis. Unless you come talk to me—no late work.” She was happy to see that students turned in their work more than they did before the late work policy went into effect. She added, “When they don’t turn in their work, their grades are reflecting their poor work ethic, not their lack of knowledge. It’s sad.”
Merit students, like all teenagers, may have started out a little rough, with issues being lazy and rude. With the help of caring teachers and higher expectations, we have improved so much. Hopefully next year, we’ll build upon what we’ve started building this year.
Yearbook conducted a survey on excuses for not having homework. The overwhelming excuse was “I didn’t feel like doing it.”
Just walk around our campus at Merit Academy and you’ll see signs of laziness. Our student store was closed for two weeks because of all the trash on the school grounds. One whole mentoring class was devoted to cleaning up the campus, because students wouldn’t take the initiative to do it themselves.
Hand in hand with being lazy, students have also struggled with being rude and inconsiderate. Miss Meyerson and Ms. Cox were a couple of teachers at the receiving end of the disrespect. Students were inconsiderate of the teacher’s feelings. They talked back, stole things, and didn’t do the work that teachers assigned. It got to the point where Miss Myerson had every single one of her students write a letter of apology to a teacher and make a promise to do better in the future.
Sure enough students did just that. They got better.
The campus is cleaner, but still has a lot of work to do. Sophomore, Mahonri Tukuafu said, “It makes our school look so much worse to students from other schools.” Sarah Ashcraft, junior, agreed, “It doesn’t reflect how great Merit really is. It gives off a bad vibe.”
Students are starting to show teachers the respect they deserve, but again, we still need to keep working at it. Rather than doing pranks to teachers that students like, they’re writing kind notes, bringing in small tokens of appreciation, and paying more attention in class. Miss Meyerson said, “I realize that when kids pull pranks, they’re doing it to be funny not malicious, so I try not to take it personally. But it brightens my day so much more when I get notes, pictures, and even baked goods. That’s a much nicer way to show appreciation!”
Additionally, teachers have ‘cracked the whip’ on late work. Some teachers responded to the laziness of the first semester by expecting MORE not less. Miss Cox no longer accepted late work during the second semester. She commented, “Last semester, I was so lenient. I accepted all late work, anytime. Now, I take it all on a case-by-case basis. Unless you come talk to me—no late work.” She was happy to see that students turned in their work more than they did before the late work policy went into effect. She added, “When they don’t turn in their work, their grades are reflecting their poor work ethic, not their lack of knowledge. It’s sad.”
Merit students, like all teenagers, may have started out a little rough, with issues being lazy and rude. With the help of caring teachers and higher expectations, we have improved so much. Hopefully next year, we’ll build upon what we’ve started building this year.
Student Achievements--Jossalyn Jensen
Merit Academy is proud to have many accomplished students who have received accolades for their achievements at a very young age.
November 2008, after weeks of suspense junior Jossalyn Jensen, received Grand Prize in the Junior Division of the Utah American String Teachers Association Solo Competition. She also received third place in the Utah State Fair during summer 2008. And she is going to Aspen Music Festival on full tuition scholarship. It is a world class music summer camp that runs for nine weeks. She will be one of the youngest students there.
Junior Chelsea and her brother, freshman Eli Allen, both received roles in the community theater play, Pirates of Penzance this year, and Chelsea was in Tales from Arabian Nights, as well.
A group of four girls from the Merit Civics class were able to compete at the annual Project Citizen Competition in Salt Lake City. Their service project was talking to the Springville City Counsel about addressing the problem of kids getting into trouble because they don’t have anything to do after school, so they want to help the city put a program together to help entertain kids after school so that they don’t get into trouble. The four girls that participated were senior Alyse Crandell, and sophomores Sarah Dickson, Amanda McNeese, and Sydney Joyner. Their project got second place in the state.
Junior Katie Boyer and sophomore Kelsey Fletcher won Merit’s Change the World Essay Contest out of all the sophomores, juniors, and seniors at Merit Academy. Kelsey’s essay was on changing the world through honesty, service, and friendship. Katie’s essay was on helping the world become a better place by helping people change their attitudes to become more accepting and positive. Both of these girls’ essays are being submitted to the state competition.
Alex Miskell, sophomore, scored the highest in our school on the reading section of the UBSCT test and was part of the top 5% in the state.
We have so many talented students at Merit Academy. We have so many more talented students that attend Merit that we haven’t mentioned. Even though we don’t have enough room to mention all our all of them, we all feel the same as our principal, Paul Baltes when he exclaimed, “We love all our students and this school wouldn’t be the same without them!”
November 2008, after weeks of suspense junior Jossalyn Jensen, received Grand Prize in the Junior Division of the Utah American String Teachers Association Solo Competition. She also received third place in the Utah State Fair during summer 2008. And she is going to Aspen Music Festival on full tuition scholarship. It is a world class music summer camp that runs for nine weeks. She will be one of the youngest students there.
Junior Chelsea and her brother, freshman Eli Allen, both received roles in the community theater play, Pirates of Penzance this year, and Chelsea was in Tales from Arabian Nights, as well.
A group of four girls from the Merit Civics class were able to compete at the annual Project Citizen Competition in Salt Lake City. Their service project was talking to the Springville City Counsel about addressing the problem of kids getting into trouble because they don’t have anything to do after school, so they want to help the city put a program together to help entertain kids after school so that they don’t get into trouble. The four girls that participated were senior Alyse Crandell, and sophomores Sarah Dickson, Amanda McNeese, and Sydney Joyner. Their project got second place in the state.
Junior Katie Boyer and sophomore Kelsey Fletcher won Merit’s Change the World Essay Contest out of all the sophomores, juniors, and seniors at Merit Academy. Kelsey’s essay was on changing the world through honesty, service, and friendship. Katie’s essay was on helping the world become a better place by helping people change their attitudes to become more accepting and positive. Both of these girls’ essays are being submitted to the state competition.
Alex Miskell, sophomore, scored the highest in our school on the reading section of the UBSCT test and was part of the top 5% in the state.
We have so many talented students at Merit Academy. We have so many more talented students that attend Merit that we haven’t mentioned. Even though we don’t have enough room to mention all our all of them, we all feel the same as our principal, Paul Baltes when he exclaimed, “We love all our students and this school wouldn’t be the same without them!”
Tennis--Samantha Vehrs
When the hot, burning sun is beating down on the earth and the wind is blowing enough to soothe the sweat off your brow, what do you do? Thanks to Miss Christina Laymen, now students can play tennis!
Newly founded at Merit Academy, tennis is a popular sport for students of all grades. Teachers and students get together weekly and learn the rules and then, or course, play the game. As a general statement about tennis, Haeleigh Royall, senior, said “Tennis is awesome! Coach Layman has great advice.” Coach Layman teaches the game of tennis, but Mrs. Jennifer Reber, a mathematics teacher, also enjoys playing tennis with the students. “I use a lot of muscles so I am sore afterwards”, she said with a laugh.
Not only is it for all grades but also for any gender. Watching a man play tennis is no more strange than watching a woman whack the ball back and forth. Mallory Fox, freshman, said, “It’s exhilarating because there is no hiding out there, you can’t pass the ball. It’s a great way to have fun and meet new people. I had a tennis instructor over the summer and he was way cute. Boys who play tennis are sexy!”
Like most sports tennis can be enjoyable aside from the benefits of meeting people, getting in shape, and having hand-eye coordination. Sophomore Diana Pepper wants the reward of having a thrill. “My favorite thing about tennis is when your outside and you’re hitting the ball as hard as you can! Your adrenaline is like AAAH!”
Newly founded at Merit Academy, tennis is a popular sport for students of all grades. Teachers and students get together weekly and learn the rules and then, or course, play the game. As a general statement about tennis, Haeleigh Royall, senior, said “Tennis is awesome! Coach Layman has great advice.” Coach Layman teaches the game of tennis, but Mrs. Jennifer Reber, a mathematics teacher, also enjoys playing tennis with the students. “I use a lot of muscles so I am sore afterwards”, she said with a laugh.
Not only is it for all grades but also for any gender. Watching a man play tennis is no more strange than watching a woman whack the ball back and forth. Mallory Fox, freshman, said, “It’s exhilarating because there is no hiding out there, you can’t pass the ball. It’s a great way to have fun and meet new people. I had a tennis instructor over the summer and he was way cute. Boys who play tennis are sexy!”
Like most sports tennis can be enjoyable aside from the benefits of meeting people, getting in shape, and having hand-eye coordination. Sophomore Diana Pepper wants the reward of having a thrill. “My favorite thing about tennis is when your outside and you’re hitting the ball as hard as you can! Your adrenaline is like AAAH!”
Advice Column--Sam Vehrs and Mallory Fox
Is it okay for girls to ask a guy to dances?
YES! It is always fine for girls to make the first move. Girls might think that it is the guys obligation to ask the girl to a date or a dance, but really, it doesn’t matter. Sometimes guys want to ask a girl but they are too shy or nervous to do so. Apparently it is nerve racking to ask a girl to dance, or on a date. If you like the guy, step up and ask already!
Why are boys so stupid and immature?
That is just another mystery of the Universe that we will never know.
What do I do if the boy I like likes my best friend?
Wow. That is a real heart breaker sometimes. But the best thing you could do is let it go. You are in high school and you shouldn’t hold grudges towards your best friend for getting the guy that you like. It’s not worth it! Stay friends and NEVER start rumors! It will only worsen the situation! It can be hard at first but it is important that you get over it and move on! If you are friends with the guy, don’t beat him up, or sick your dog on him! He can’t help it who he likes. Maybe he will realize that he has always liked you. It might happen, but it also might not. Stay open for options and keep your head up!
My summer plans are looking very boring. What are some things I can do with friends in Utah that is not too expensive?
Summer can be great because you have no school, but it can also be lame if you don’t’ have plans! Now is the time to pull out your imagination. If you have a car or a job, your life is made about 10 times easier. Carpool with friends if you are going someplace. Bikes or walking are great ways to get places, get a work out and a tan all at the same time! You could go to the pool, park, the Dollar Theater, or tube down the Provo River. We live really close to the mountains so you can go for a hike and a picnic. If you want to do something in UTAH, for CHEAP….just use your imagination and be ready for some crazy ideas.
What do girls like most guys, or what should I do to get a girl to like me?
Depending on the girl, it will vary, but you should always be yourself. If the girl you like likes you a certain way and not how you always are, she is not the girl for you. Most girls like the guys are “gorgeous” and “ripped” but they have also said that it really matters what’s inside. Physical appearance does add brownie points for the guy; so don’t “not care” about your appearance. Clothes make a big difference when you are trying to catch a girl’s eye. Man sweaters, collared shirts, and simple t-shirts are the perfect items to be a girl’s eye candy. Besides appearance, another major turn on is a good and clean sense of humor and morals! I have heard girls honestly say that “morals are sexy”’
YES! It is always fine for girls to make the first move. Girls might think that it is the guys obligation to ask the girl to a date or a dance, but really, it doesn’t matter. Sometimes guys want to ask a girl but they are too shy or nervous to do so. Apparently it is nerve racking to ask a girl to dance, or on a date. If you like the guy, step up and ask already!
Why are boys so stupid and immature?
That is just another mystery of the Universe that we will never know.
What do I do if the boy I like likes my best friend?
Wow. That is a real heart breaker sometimes. But the best thing you could do is let it go. You are in high school and you shouldn’t hold grudges towards your best friend for getting the guy that you like. It’s not worth it! Stay friends and NEVER start rumors! It will only worsen the situation! It can be hard at first but it is important that you get over it and move on! If you are friends with the guy, don’t beat him up, or sick your dog on him! He can’t help it who he likes. Maybe he will realize that he has always liked you. It might happen, but it also might not. Stay open for options and keep your head up!
My summer plans are looking very boring. What are some things I can do with friends in Utah that is not too expensive?
Summer can be great because you have no school, but it can also be lame if you don’t’ have plans! Now is the time to pull out your imagination. If you have a car or a job, your life is made about 10 times easier. Carpool with friends if you are going someplace. Bikes or walking are great ways to get places, get a work out and a tan all at the same time! You could go to the pool, park, the Dollar Theater, or tube down the Provo River. We live really close to the mountains so you can go for a hike and a picnic. If you want to do something in UTAH, for CHEAP….just use your imagination and be ready for some crazy ideas.
What do girls like most guys, or what should I do to get a girl to like me?
Depending on the girl, it will vary, but you should always be yourself. If the girl you like likes you a certain way and not how you always are, she is not the girl for you. Most girls like the guys are “gorgeous” and “ripped” but they have also said that it really matters what’s inside. Physical appearance does add brownie points for the guy; so don’t “not care” about your appearance. Clothes make a big difference when you are trying to catch a girl’s eye. Man sweaters, collared shirts, and simple t-shirts are the perfect items to be a girl’s eye candy. Besides appearance, another major turn on is a good and clean sense of humor and morals! I have heard girls honestly say that “morals are sexy”’
Politics--Mallory Fox
This year, Americans embraced their first ever African American President, Barack Obama. Obama is also the first new president since before the terrorist attacks in 2001, and the most successful in using the internet to his political advantage.
Barack Obama’s resume appeared meager by previous presidential standards, spending four years as a senator in Washington and eight years in the Illinois State Senate. Despite his relative lack of experience, Obama was able to seize the Democratic nomination from a far more notable competitor, Hillary Clinton. After winning an epic primary battle, Obama overcame Arizona Senator, Republican John McCain by an electoral margin of 365 to 173 and out-polling him by more than eight million votes.
As a democrat, Obama has big visions about what government can to do solve problems. Although it is too early to see all the changes President Obama is trying to make, it is already apparent that Obama is holding true to the promises he made as he was campaigning for office. For instance, Obama’s proposed tax plan delivers “broad-based tax relief to middle class families and cuts taxes for small businesses and companies that create jobs in America” (whitehouse.gov). Those earning less than $250,000 per year would see some tax cut while those above will receive a 3% increase. President Obama says that his tax plan will “help restore bottom-up economic growth that creates good jobs in America and empowers all families to achieve the American dream” (whitehouse.gov). Obama’s most controversial act so far was passing a $787 billion dollar stimulus package that was designed to help stimulate the economy.
President Obama inherited many problems when he became the 44th president of the United States. Some have compared our economic situation to that of the Great Depression. Banks were on the verge of collapse and the U.S. auto industry was on the verge of bankruptcy. America is also facing many international challenges such as the war in Iraq, the worsening conflict in Afghanistan, the consequences from Israel’s broad assault on Gaza, piracy, and the threat of terrorism.
While the challenges for the nation are great, the American public so far seems to stand behind the new president. He remains popular in public opinion polls and will not doubt continue to search for ways for government to actively address today’s many challenges.
Barack Obama’s resume appeared meager by previous presidential standards, spending four years as a senator in Washington and eight years in the Illinois State Senate. Despite his relative lack of experience, Obama was able to seize the Democratic nomination from a far more notable competitor, Hillary Clinton. After winning an epic primary battle, Obama overcame Arizona Senator, Republican John McCain by an electoral margin of 365 to 173 and out-polling him by more than eight million votes.
As a democrat, Obama has big visions about what government can to do solve problems. Although it is too early to see all the changes President Obama is trying to make, it is already apparent that Obama is holding true to the promises he made as he was campaigning for office. For instance, Obama’s proposed tax plan delivers “broad-based tax relief to middle class families and cuts taxes for small businesses and companies that create jobs in America” (whitehouse.gov). Those earning less than $250,000 per year would see some tax cut while those above will receive a 3% increase. President Obama says that his tax plan will “help restore bottom-up economic growth that creates good jobs in America and empowers all families to achieve the American dream” (whitehouse.gov). Obama’s most controversial act so far was passing a $787 billion dollar stimulus package that was designed to help stimulate the economy.
President Obama inherited many problems when he became the 44th president of the United States. Some have compared our economic situation to that of the Great Depression. Banks were on the verge of collapse and the U.S. auto industry was on the verge of bankruptcy. America is also facing many international challenges such as the war in Iraq, the worsening conflict in Afghanistan, the consequences from Israel’s broad assault on Gaza, piracy, and the threat of terrorism.
While the challenges for the nation are great, the American public so far seems to stand behind the new president. He remains popular in public opinion polls and will not doubt continue to search for ways for government to actively address today’s many challenges.
Cheerleading--Kyle Dwiggins
Who loves cheerleading? Merit does! Meit’s first cheer squad formed this year just in time to cheer for both the boys’ and girls’ teams.
Though she was never a cheerleader herself, Mrs. Stephanie Cox is the cheerleader coach for the squad. Sophomore Sam Murray said, “She’s a good coach, she keeps us on task.” When asked if senior and co-founder for the squad, Haeleigh Royall liked Coach Cox, she responded, “YES! I like her very much, she listens a lot, she understands us, and also takes suggestions and uses them.”
The cheerleaders had to challenge themselves to get on the team and do their best since this being on a first year squad. Junior Sarah Ashcraft said, “I told myself I was going to make a commitment, and I went for it!”
The girls believe that cheerleading provides them with skills that will last them for years to come. Junior Ingrid Rawle is excited to continue cheerleading next year. She commented (in a British accent), “I would much enjoy doing it next year!”
The girls did more than just cheer at sporting events. They continued practicing until the end of the year in preparation for The Merit Cheerleading Invitational, an event that the team planned and competed in. Fellow charter schools participated in the event that showcased half-time routines, time-out routines, stunt competitions, consecutive toe-touch competitions, and standard cheers. Senior and co-founder Madison Reece said, "The competition was a good experience for the squad. It opened up opportunities for the girls to learn to perform and compete under pressure."
The squad ended their season with a Merit Junior Cheer Clinic for Kindergartners through eighth graders. They taught jumps, kicks, cheers, and a dance. "It's a great way for our cheerleaders to share their talents and become more involved in the community. It also allows us to raise money for our future cheer squad," said Miss Cox.
One thing is for sure—Merit loves its cheer squad, and the cheer squad loves them back. Not only do the sports teams look forward to hearing new cheers next sports season, the school looks forward to cheering on our cheerleaders as they compete in competitions of their own ! If you are interested in joining the squad, please talk to the coach, Mrs. Cox. They are looking for more cheerful Merit students!
Though she was never a cheerleader herself, Mrs. Stephanie Cox is the cheerleader coach for the squad. Sophomore Sam Murray said, “She’s a good coach, she keeps us on task.” When asked if senior and co-founder for the squad, Haeleigh Royall liked Coach Cox, she responded, “YES! I like her very much, she listens a lot, she understands us, and also takes suggestions and uses them.”
The cheerleaders had to challenge themselves to get on the team and do their best since this being on a first year squad. Junior Sarah Ashcraft said, “I told myself I was going to make a commitment, and I went for it!”
The girls believe that cheerleading provides them with skills that will last them for years to come. Junior Ingrid Rawle is excited to continue cheerleading next year. She commented (in a British accent), “I would much enjoy doing it next year!”
The girls did more than just cheer at sporting events. They continued practicing until the end of the year in preparation for The Merit Cheerleading Invitational, an event that the team planned and competed in. Fellow charter schools participated in the event that showcased half-time routines, time-out routines, stunt competitions, consecutive toe-touch competitions, and standard cheers. Senior and co-founder Madison Reece said, "The competition was a good experience for the squad. It opened up opportunities for the girls to learn to perform and compete under pressure."
The squad ended their season with a Merit Junior Cheer Clinic for Kindergartners through eighth graders. They taught jumps, kicks, cheers, and a dance. "It's a great way for our cheerleaders to share their talents and become more involved in the community. It also allows us to raise money for our future cheer squad," said Miss Cox.
One thing is for sure—Merit loves its cheer squad, and the cheer squad loves them back. Not only do the sports teams look forward to hearing new cheers next sports season, the school looks forward to cheering on our cheerleaders as they compete in competitions of their own ! If you are interested in joining the squad, please talk to the coach, Mrs. Cox. They are looking for more cheerful Merit students!
Off Campus Lunch--Courtney Jenkins
Here at Merit College Preparatory Academy we have a big issue with off campus lunch. As you all very well know we are not allowed to leave campus for any reason, including lunch without getting a violation. And if we leave three times we could ultimately get suspended.
Most of Merit's students want off campus lunch; however, some of the students think it is a privilege that should be earned. Junior Katie Bartholomew offered her opinion saying, “Off campus lunch shouldn't be for everyone, it should be for the students who earn it. I agree with her, off campus lunch should be for the students who get decent grades, or that have done something that deserves praise for their actions.”
Another point to be made is that most of Merit's students’ past schools had an open campus during lunch. Sophomore Lindsay Luscher said, “We should have off campus lunch. If Springville High can, why can't we?” We always end up having the same days off as Springville High, then why can't we have the same lunch privileges?
On the other side of this issue, I can see why Merit's faculty wouldn't want their students to have off campus lunch. Merit could be held responsible for accidents that happen while students were away, but I think it's worth the risk. If students are caught abusing their right, it should be taken away from them for however long the faculty thinks they deserve.
Merit is an amazing school, and I hope we can make it better by giving the students the wonderful privilege of having off campus lunch. Freshman Stephanie Juarez agreed: “By next year we should have off campus lunch.” Another true point was made by sophomore Sydney Reece: “We should have off campus lunch ‘cause we rock.”
Most of Merit's students want off campus lunch; however, some of the students think it is a privilege that should be earned. Junior Katie Bartholomew offered her opinion saying, “Off campus lunch shouldn't be for everyone, it should be for the students who earn it. I agree with her, off campus lunch should be for the students who get decent grades, or that have done something that deserves praise for their actions.”
Another point to be made is that most of Merit's students’ past schools had an open campus during lunch. Sophomore Lindsay Luscher said, “We should have off campus lunch. If Springville High can, why can't we?” We always end up having the same days off as Springville High, then why can't we have the same lunch privileges?
On the other side of this issue, I can see why Merit's faculty wouldn't want their students to have off campus lunch. Merit could be held responsible for accidents that happen while students were away, but I think it's worth the risk. If students are caught abusing their right, it should be taken away from them for however long the faculty thinks they deserve.
Merit is an amazing school, and I hope we can make it better by giving the students the wonderful privilege of having off campus lunch. Freshman Stephanie Juarez agreed: “By next year we should have off campus lunch.” Another true point was made by sophomore Sydney Reece: “We should have off campus lunch ‘cause we rock.”
Book Review (Go Ask Alice)--Sebastian Chapa
If you’re looking for a thrilling, very real, and very scary book, one might recommend reading Go Ask Alice, a REAL diary by a lost and confused girl who got mixed up in drugs and sex and the wrong crowd. The New York Times hails it as “an extraordinary work…a document of horrifying reality.”
But Alice’s life did not start out that way. She was no different than you and me. She turned fifteen in the very beginning of the book and was very concerned about her weight and lack of a social life (particularly a boyfriend).
She soon moved and life seemed to be getting gloomy to her. She finally found some friends, and one mixed her up with a boy who used a lot of drugs. She experienced her first trip, LSD, at a party he held where she didn’t even know what was going on. From there, everything went downhill. She began craving all sorts of drugs; wanting to try them all because of the wonderful time she had experimenting with them.
Her LSD experience led to her having sex for the first time, which led to confused emotions and questionable actions from her. Eventually, she ran away with a friend to San Francisco. She led an okay life, having a job and a house and a friend to be with, but drugs eventually find her there, too. More parties, more drugs, and more experiences lead to a whole mess of a journal, one that I most assuredly don’t want to spoil.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, especially for those who think that drugs are the answer. It shows what carelessness can lead to, and also serves as a self-motivator to live and love life and stay clean and not let the little things get you down. I award this novel a nine out of ten. It is a quick and easy read, and it is unbelievably powerful. Great book!
But Alice’s life did not start out that way. She was no different than you and me. She turned fifteen in the very beginning of the book and was very concerned about her weight and lack of a social life (particularly a boyfriend).
She soon moved and life seemed to be getting gloomy to her. She finally found some friends, and one mixed her up with a boy who used a lot of drugs. She experienced her first trip, LSD, at a party he held where she didn’t even know what was going on. From there, everything went downhill. She began craving all sorts of drugs; wanting to try them all because of the wonderful time she had experimenting with them.
Her LSD experience led to her having sex for the first time, which led to confused emotions and questionable actions from her. Eventually, she ran away with a friend to San Francisco. She led an okay life, having a job and a house and a friend to be with, but drugs eventually find her there, too. More parties, more drugs, and more experiences lead to a whole mess of a journal, one that I most assuredly don’t want to spoil.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, especially for those who think that drugs are the answer. It shows what carelessness can lead to, and also serves as a self-motivator to live and love life and stay clean and not let the little things get you down. I award this novel a nine out of ten. It is a quick and easy read, and it is unbelievably powerful. Great book!
Editorial--Sebastian Chapa
Where do I start? Merit is hands-down the best school I’ve ever attended. At every other school, I’d wake up with a pain in my heart. A sickening feeling of “I have to go to school today” would overwhelm my soul. While at school, I could tell you the exact date and time ALWAYS…but here at Merit I have trouble telling you when Friday is! I’ve never been so enthusiastic about my educational experience, and I’ve never had a school so enthusiastic about my educational success.
First of all, Merit cares. I’ve never been in a school where every faculty member cared so deeply. Teachers teach because they love teaching (and are even ALLOWED to do so because of the love and dedication Dr. Baltes took in making sure he had the best staff possible for his outstanding school) and put forth every effort to help students succeed.
Second of all, there are no “cliques” at Merit. I have never been a part of such unity within a school. Everybody knows everyone else, and nobody is afraid to talk to anyone. The student body is very accepting of fellow students (old AND new), and very rarely are there problems. A lot of this can be attributed to the dress code, which greatly reduces the tendency to judge fellow students based on the typical clothes, jewelry, etc.
Lastly, Merit’s attitude is just different and superior. Dedicated students and dedicated faculty members and just about the coolest principal you can find all attest to this. I’ve never seen such motivation, such drive, such innate positivity. Everyone loves everyone else, and school is something we all can look forward to every day.
Despite the fact that Merit had no building this year, students bonded with each other and each teacher shined new lights within everyone’s lives. I will never forget the experience Merit has given me, and it will stand out in my mind as the best school I’ve ever been lucky enough to attend.
First of all, Merit cares. I’ve never been in a school where every faculty member cared so deeply. Teachers teach because they love teaching (and are even ALLOWED to do so because of the love and dedication Dr. Baltes took in making sure he had the best staff possible for his outstanding school) and put forth every effort to help students succeed.
Second of all, there are no “cliques” at Merit. I have never been a part of such unity within a school. Everybody knows everyone else, and nobody is afraid to talk to anyone. The student body is very accepting of fellow students (old AND new), and very rarely are there problems. A lot of this can be attributed to the dress code, which greatly reduces the tendency to judge fellow students based on the typical clothes, jewelry, etc.
Lastly, Merit’s attitude is just different and superior. Dedicated students and dedicated faculty members and just about the coolest principal you can find all attest to this. I’ve never seen such motivation, such drive, such innate positivity. Everyone loves everyone else, and school is something we all can look forward to every day.
Despite the fact that Merit had no building this year, students bonded with each other and each teacher shined new lights within everyone’s lives. I will never forget the experience Merit has given me, and it will stand out in my mind as the best school I’ve ever been lucky enough to attend.
Pranks--Carver Davis
Throughout the year, Merit students have had days where there isn’t anything to do, and they feel like school is a little too unexciting. The day is lacking something entertaining. Why not pull a little prank on an unsuspecting freshman or maybe a few sophomores. Why not a teacher?
Though pranks continued all year, April first, otherwise known as April Fool’s Day, allowed for even more motivation. Students focused their pranks on teachers, and teachers focused their pranks on other teachers.
Sophomore Mark Kennon, and freshmen Elyse Johnson, Eli Allen, Tasha Young, Sheldon Boone in Mrs. Smith’s study hall class (according to Kennon) moved “everything, and I mean everything, except for the props” out of Ms. Smith’s room and into Ms. Gritton’s room.
Sophomore John Southworth and another student who I will not name planned to mess around with Mr. Hatfield’s room while he was out eating Wendy’s with other teachers. During Chemistry, John unlocked a window allowing them to enter the room later. It took about ten minutes to find out how to open the window. They finally found out that they had to lift them up and then slide them over. But once they opened it up and they were all excited, they argued over who would climb through the window and open the door for the other.
They found a smaller student, junior Riley Grant, who was willing to climb in and open the door for them. After being heard by Mrs. Coleman and being kicked out of Mr. Hatfield’s room, they had sophomore Mark Kennon climb through later and open the door.
John and his unknown partner in crime then cleared all of the tables and flipped them over onto the ground. When Mr. Hatfield returned, there was evidence of who had committed such a crime; a size fifteen footprint on the face of a desktop. There’s only one person in the school with shoes that big: Carver Davis.
Mr. Emory himself had some fun too. He took fire alarms and stuck them above the tiles in the ceiling. They would constantly beep and aggravate teachers like Mrs. Fullmer and Miss Meyerson. According to Jessica Foster, “They were so annoying!” she continued, “I wanted to punch someone.”
At one point in the year, Ms. Cox was vandalizing Mr. Emory’s car. Then Mr. Emory wanted to get even with Ms. Cox, so he put tables and chairs on the inside of her door so she couldn’t get in—it didn’t work. Then he took catfish rolled in butcher paper and threw it in her room. However, she retaliated and threw it in Emory’s room. Then Emory took rope and bungee cords and connected them to her door, then to the ramp, sp that they couldn’t leave the classroom.
On Miss Meyerson’s birthday, she got a text message from Mr. Hatfield warning her that there was a group of students surrounding her car. She looked out her window and what did she see? Freshmen Eric Pence, Cole Halladay, Trevor Beede and Aldyn Ashcraft and junior Aubrey Royall sticking tons of sticky notes on her brand new Toyota Corolla.
“We sticky noted that car like crazy,” said one of the alleged culprits, Royall. Miss Meyerson has officially been Sticky-Noted. From this day forth, nobody can look at her the same.
Though pranks continued all year, April first, otherwise known as April Fool’s Day, allowed for even more motivation. Students focused their pranks on teachers, and teachers focused their pranks on other teachers.
Sophomore Mark Kennon, and freshmen Elyse Johnson, Eli Allen, Tasha Young, Sheldon Boone in Mrs. Smith’s study hall class (according to Kennon) moved “everything, and I mean everything, except for the props” out of Ms. Smith’s room and into Ms. Gritton’s room.
Sophomore John Southworth and another student who I will not name planned to mess around with Mr. Hatfield’s room while he was out eating Wendy’s with other teachers. During Chemistry, John unlocked a window allowing them to enter the room later. It took about ten minutes to find out how to open the window. They finally found out that they had to lift them up and then slide them over. But once they opened it up and they were all excited, they argued over who would climb through the window and open the door for the other.
They found a smaller student, junior Riley Grant, who was willing to climb in and open the door for them. After being heard by Mrs. Coleman and being kicked out of Mr. Hatfield’s room, they had sophomore Mark Kennon climb through later and open the door.
John and his unknown partner in crime then cleared all of the tables and flipped them over onto the ground. When Mr. Hatfield returned, there was evidence of who had committed such a crime; a size fifteen footprint on the face of a desktop. There’s only one person in the school with shoes that big: Carver Davis.
Mr. Emory himself had some fun too. He took fire alarms and stuck them above the tiles in the ceiling. They would constantly beep and aggravate teachers like Mrs. Fullmer and Miss Meyerson. According to Jessica Foster, “They were so annoying!” she continued, “I wanted to punch someone.”
At one point in the year, Ms. Cox was vandalizing Mr. Emory’s car. Then Mr. Emory wanted to get even with Ms. Cox, so he put tables and chairs on the inside of her door so she couldn’t get in—it didn’t work. Then he took catfish rolled in butcher paper and threw it in her room. However, she retaliated and threw it in Emory’s room. Then Emory took rope and bungee cords and connected them to her door, then to the ramp, sp that they couldn’t leave the classroom.
On Miss Meyerson’s birthday, she got a text message from Mr. Hatfield warning her that there was a group of students surrounding her car. She looked out her window and what did she see? Freshmen Eric Pence, Cole Halladay, Trevor Beede and Aldyn Ashcraft and junior Aubrey Royall sticking tons of sticky notes on her brand new Toyota Corolla.
“We sticky noted that car like crazy,” said one of the alleged culprits, Royall. Miss Meyerson has officially been Sticky-Noted. From this day forth, nobody can look at her the same.
Volleyball--Kelsey Fletcher
Bump, set, spike is a familiar term to all athletes, but for Merit Academy’s first girls volleyball team, it was a practiced routine. With practices every day after school from 3-5 at the elementary school down the road, the girls had lots of time to laugh, work hard and enjoy one another's company.
“This was our first season and it was a great way to start off Merit's volleyball legacy. Everyone on the team did a tremendous job and showed great improvement,” commented Coach Christina Laymen when asked about the teams first year together. “We look forward to having many returning players next year and adding some new talent to our team.” The coaches this year put a tremendous amount of energy and time into helping the team get where they were. Miss Christina Laymen and Mrs. Jen Reber, or as the girls called them “Coach Laymen and Coach Rebs” were responsible for leading the team.
Merit's first volleyball team included Bianka Morales(freshman), Hannah Paz (freshman), Catherine Tukuafu (junior), EmmaLee Fox (junior), Kelsey Fletcher (sophomore), Kendra Fletcher (freshman), Sheree Benson (freshman), Sydney Reece (freshman), Stephanie Hureta (freshman), Nabila Gutierrez (freshman) and Obnette Woodward (sophomore). Also as a team working together, they had two team captains, Tukuafu and Kelsey Fletcher. EmmaLee Fox said, "Kelsey and Catherine were the best captains a team could have. They were always good examples by being on time to every practice and their volleyball skills were mad!”
Traveling to games all around Utah was something that everyone on the team enjoyed, (with the exception of Coach Reber). The group traveled to many places including Price, Rockwell, PCS, and Springville to play girls from all over Utah. One of the most exciting moments for the team was the victory over the Price's volleyball team, Pinnacle. Coach Reber remembered with a big smile, “It was a really fun year at practices and seeing everyone improve. I was so excited when we beat Pinnacle. Seeing the girls diving and serving the ball with all the power that they possessed was such a joy to see!”
Working hard and learning all they could, Merit Academy’s first sports team was proud to come home from the tournament with a third place trophy in hand. The season was full of surprises and many fun activities, and when it all ended, a few tears were shed. “We really bonded as a team and even now we miss volleyball,” Kendra Fletcher said about the team.
Looking forward to the next season, what the team remembers most fondly is the growth and friendships made all along the way.
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