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We the People class advances to national competition

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We the People class advances to national competition

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On April 26-29th, 2019, Staples High School's We the People Class will be heading to Washington D.C for the national We the People Competition after they won the wildcard. After losing to Trumbull in the state competition, the received wildcard let them continue on.

In all 50 states, students take place in the We the People competition, an oral-based competition with different topics surrounding the constitution. The contest starts at the state level, with one winner coming out of each state. However, wildcards are given out that allow for teams from 28 states to come to compete in the national event.

"States was amazing, it was such a fun experience. It was really crazy to see our months of work culminate into just 10 minutes of judging," Caroline Vandis '20 said. "We write three responses to prepare and practice answering questions related to our statements. At the competition, the judges randomly select one of the three, which we read for four minutes, and then we answer six minutes of questioning."

The We the People Class is divided up into six groups which represent the six units in the given We the People textbook that all students have to read.

"At the competition, the whole team sat in a room for a couple of hours and watched as the units went one at a time. my unit went second," Vandis said. "It was really nerve-racking because we only really know our own material so it's hard to judge how one unit is doing. And then after everyone went we went down to an auditorium to receive the results."

For the national competition, over 1,200 students go to Washington D.C along with 56 teachers according to Civic Education . For this trip over $1,500,000 is going to be raised in order for the groups to compete and learn in the nation's capital..

Zach De Brino '19 took We the People in the 2017-2018 school year and competed in Washington D.C.

"It was a really amazing trip, becoming an expert on my topic was really interesting to me," De Brino said. "We got to compete on a national stage, we shared a bus with other schools, we got to tour D.C, met Will Haskell who hadn't won his State Senate seat yet, and overall it was just so fun because of the great bonding experiences where we met so many new people. It was definitely one of the best high school experiences ever."

According to De Brino, "extremely intense" research has to take place to prepare. For example, the class had to dig into online documents, the given textbook, and even do in-person interviews.

When Staples' We the People class found out they received a wildcard they began to plan for the upcoming trip. Part of their strategy included learning from the self-remarked stressful state competition to help at the national one.

Max Herman '19 i s another current We the People Student who is getting ready for upcoming competition.

"The state competition was stressful but our team trusted each other and our own knowledge," Herman said. We didn't get first but we are ready to place as high as we can at nationals."

Vandis commented that their strategy for nationals was similar to theirs for states, but that they had to adapt slightly to the different rules for the nationwide competition, such as being able to read and receive questioning on prepared statements.

"I think a lot of the team wants to place higher than Trumbull, the team who always wins states, at nationals, but otherwise we're all just really excited to go," Vandis said.

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We the People class advances to national competition

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On April 26-29th, 2019, Staples High School's We the People Class will be heading to Washington D.C for the national We the People Competition after they won the wildcard. After losing to Trumbull in the state competition, the received wildcard let them continue on. In all 50 states, students take place in the We the...

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Westport students are choosing private schools over Staples because of reasons such as class sizes, lack of attention, and an advantage in college acceptance.

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Westport high school students are leaving their public school to attend private school.

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Every year, more and more Staples students have chosen to continue their studies at private schools

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Every year, Staples students have been transferring to private schools with hopes of smaller classes and more personal attention.

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However, as the new school year begins, Staples sees some of their students choose to attend other private schools because of large classrooms and not enough attention academically.

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Westport high school students are leaving their public school to attend a private school. 

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Westport high school students are leaving their public school to attend a private school. 

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News Lede

Every year, high school students from Westport are choosing to attend private schools rather than Staples. 

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News Lede

Every year, high school students from Westport are choosing to attend private schools rather than Staples. 

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Although there are academic advantages of Staples High School, some students choose to leave Staples in order to attend private schools.

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Westport high schoolers choose private schools over Staples in order
to find the best fitting teaching environment for themselves.

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Every year, high schoolers from Westport choose private school over Staples

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Every year Westport students are choosing to attend private schools over Staples

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Why some students decided to go to private school instead of Staples.

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Staples students have recently been transferring to private schools due to large classes and not enough attention academically

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Smaller individualized learning environments are the reason Staples students leave their school for private educationn

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Many Staples students have been transferring to alternative schools that are private, due to many complaints regarding Staples.

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Every year, some Westport high schoolers choose to attend private schools instead of Staples because they want smaller class sizes.

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Westport students choosing to attend private schools over public schools to meet individual needs.

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Westport students choosing to attend private schools over public schools to meet individual needs.

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Westport high school students are choosing to attend private schools over Staples.

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many staples students are switching to private schools for more individualised education 
 

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many staples students are switching to private schools for more individualised education 
 

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About 5% of former Staples high school students are deciding to merge over to private schools yearly

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Many Staples students have chosen to leave Staples in search of smaller class sizes at private school.

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Westport high school students have been transferring to private schools rather than staying at Staples

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More Staples high school students are choosing private schools each year.

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More Staples high school students are choosing private schools each year.

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Westport students are leaving the district for more personalized learning experiences at private schools.

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Students are leaving Staples High School for private schools because of the large school and classes

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Jussie Smollett allegedly stages attack, increases dialogue about hate crimes

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Jussie Smollett allegedly stages attack, increases dialogue about hate crimes

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/08/jussie-smollett-allegedly-stages-attack-increases-dialogue-about-hate-crimes/

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Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

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Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

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Five very popular Westport dining spots failed their health inspections in late December and early January. These restaurants include Parker Mansion, Sherwood Diner, Julian's Pizza Bar & Kitchen, Jeera Thai, Little Kitchen and Viva Zapata.

The purpose of these health inspections are to address the health and safety of restaurants and prevent the spread of foodborne disease, according to the Westport Weston Health District. The inspections are conducted every three months. Alone, the Westport Weston Health District inspects over 200 food establishments.

"It makes me uncomfortable because I often eat at those restaurants with my family and if I go there regularly I want to know that my food is not contaminated," Jessica Plotkin '20 said.

The scoring is assessed on a 100 point scale but the health district is hoping to change this to a pass-fail system in the future. Chief Sanitarian Jeffrey Andrews shared with a Westport News reporter that the Sherwood Diner received a 79/100, Viva Zapata received a 75/100 while Julian's earned the lowest score of 64/100 due to food temperature violations.

A restaurant fails their inspection if they receive lower than a score of 80 or make any very critical violations. The result of an inspection failure calls for a reinspection about two weeks later, Andrews proceeded to explain to Westport News.

However, the Staples High School Cafeteria received a 92 for their inspection.

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Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

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Five very popular Westport dining spots failed their health inspections in late December and early January. These restaurants include Parker Mansion, Sherwood Diner, Julian's Pizza Bar & Kitchen, Jeera Thai, Little Kitchen and Viva Zapata. The purpose of these health inspections are to address the health and safety of restaurants and prevent the spread of...

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Popular Westport restaurant fails health inspection 

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Popular Westport restaurant fails health inspection 

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/02/18/popular-westport-restaurants-fail-health-inspection/

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State Senator Will Haskell has introduced three new bills focused on gun control into the State Senate since taking office on Jan. 14.

These gun control regulations would ban ghost guns (firearms without serial numbers), sanction police to request access to gun licenses and limit bulk purchases of guns.

Students seem to be optimistic about the upcoming legislation. Ryan Fenstermacher '21 views this legislation as a chance for Senator Haskell to prove himself to the area that he was elected to represent."The legislation is not groundbreaking. I respect his drive and it's a step in the right direction," said Fenstermacher.

Increasing gun control has been a central part of Senator Haskell's platform.

"From the moment I enter office as State Senator, my top priority will be reducing access to weapons and strengthening our state's gun laws," Haskell wrote on his .

In two cases, Haskell is again proposing gun control measures that previously did not pass the Assembly.

House Bill 5540, which was presented in 2018 b y Representative Brenda Kupchick of the 132nd district , is similar to Haskell's ghost guns bill. However, the bill never passed the full General Assembly and did not become law, the Bulletin reported.

Another Haskell proposal-An Act Concerning the Presentation of a Carry Permit, LCO Number 1021-requires gun permits to be shown to law enforcement officers if requested. In 2017, The Judiciary Committee for Connecticut received a proposal like this one but did not vote on it.

Haskell's third bill intends to regulate the number of guns one may purchase in a 30-day window. Lydia Donovan '19 i nterned for Senator Haskell and believes that Haskell is different than other politicians as a result of his drive and love for his work.

"I think that these bills are proof that Senator Haskell plans to keep his promises from the campaign trail," Donovan said. "Not many politicians keep all their promises, but I know that Senator Haskell is going to work his hardest to do what he said he would do."

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State Senator Will Haskell has introduced three new bills focused on gun control into the State Senate since taking office on Jan. 14. These gun control regulations would ban ghost guns (firearms without serial numbers), sanction police to request access to gun licenses and limit bulk purchases of guns.

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Anti-Semitism accusations plague 2019 Women’s March

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Anti-Semitism accusations plague 2019 Women’s March

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/01/28/anti-semitism-accusations-plague-2019-womens-march/

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Long Term Plan for Staples and Coleytown Students

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Long Term Plan for Staples and Coleytown Students

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/01/state-of-the-town-address-clarifies-coleytown-plans-future-of-staples/

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Campaign volunteering pushes student involvement in election 

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Campaign volunteering pushes student involvement in election 

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2018/11/27/campaign-volunteering-pushes-student-involvement-in-election/

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Headstrong supports cancer awareness with an Instagram post

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Headstrong supports cancer awareness with an Instagram post

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/28/headstrong-supports-cancer-awareness-with-an-instagram-post/

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See Ya, Staples: Why Westport Students Choose Private 

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See Ya, Staples: Why Westport Students Choose Private 

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/25/see-ya-staples-why-westport-students-choose-private-schools/

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Campaign volunteering pushes student involvement in election

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Campaign volunteering pushes student involvement in election

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Rather than spending their free time with friends or doing homework, some high schoolers instead opted to volunteer at political campaigns. In a survey conducted by Zogby International, 22.4 percent of random 18-24 year olds volunteered for a political campaign. Many staples students were found doing the same.

As volunteers, students rang doorbells and called up constituents to raise support for their local congressmen.

"It's important to be politically active as a young person, since we [may] soon be politicians ourselves," Kylie Race '21 said. "Volunteering allows teenagers to help make change even though we may not be old enough to vote or run for office ourselves."

Through volunteering, students are able to better understand politics. Peter Clanton '18 has always had an interest in international politics and thought it would benefit him to volunteer in various campaigns after joining the Staples Young Republicans.

"I figured that I should start on the local level and understand the local constituencies of Westport and Connecticut as a whole," Clanton said.

He's volunteered for multiple campaigns since his sophomore year such as State Senator Toni Boucher, State Senator Toni Hwang and gubernatorial candidate David Stemerman.

Students who are considering a career in politics see the benefits as well. By volunteering, one can understand the inner workings of, and how to best run, a campaign.

Isabel Handa '19, intrigued by the prospect of becoming a politician, considers the time she's spent as a campaign volunteer to be "absolutely invaluable."

Rather than push the beliefs of their candidate's party on individuals, volunteers often try to promote civic engagement of any kind to those they reach out to.

"No matter the party, it is important that all Americans know the importance of their vote," Autumn Smith '21 said.

Many student campaign volunteers see themselves continuing to do so throughout their life.

"Hopefully in college I can get involved in local politics there," Olivia Utter '19 said, "especially if I go to school in a swing state."

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Campaign volunteering pushes student involvement in election

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Rather than spending their free time with friends or doing homework, some high schoolers instead opted to volunteer at political campaigns. In a survey conducted by Zogby International, 22.4 percent of random 18-24 year olds volunteered for a political campaign. Many staples students were found doing the same.

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Unclear recycling policy yields confusion in cafeteria

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Unclear recycling policy yields confusion in cafeteria

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/05/unclear-recycling-policy-yields-confusion-in-cafeteria/

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See ya, Staples: Why Westport Students Choose Private

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See ya, Staples: Why Westport Students Choose Private

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Feature Article

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Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor. This is a common scene during the five-minute passing time between classes at Staples High School, one that most Staples students have become very familiar with as they make their way to their next class.

Staples High School is ranked the best overall public school in the state of Connecticut by Niche, scoring highly in academics, college preparation and activities. Yet each year, some high schoolers from Westport choose to go to private schools rather than attending Staples.

There are many reasons why people seek a private school education outside of the Westport Public School System; some switch to private school for a more individualized environment. Riley Tooker attended Staples freshman year but transferred to Hopkins before her sophomore year.

"I left Staples because I didn't really like how big the class sizes were," Tooker said. "I wanted a more personalized learning experience with smaller classes so that I could really be engaged."

Ava Block chose to leave Staples and enroll at Berkshire School in Massachusetts for similar reasons as Tooker.
"I wanted to go to a smaller school, and there are only about 400 people in my whole school and about eight in each of my classes," Block said.

Furthermore, some kids believe that the smaller classes at private school allow for a stronger bond between students and teachers and that this is beneficial to their education.

"Because private schools are smaller, there is a lot more attention on each student," Kate Loffredo, who transferred to Hopkins, said. "There are such strong student-teacher relationships and every teacher can truly learn everything they need to know about a student to help further their education."

Academically, a common belief that fuels many students' decisions to transfer stems from the idea that a private school education will provide an advantage for getting accepted to colleges. With the idea of college on the minds of many high schoolers, some students believe that Staples cannot offer the level of academics suitable to get into their "dream school."

"Hopkins' rigorous academics and smaller environment will help through the college process," Riley Lipman said, finding that Hopkins rather than Staples was a better fit for her both academically and athletically. "Staples students seem to spend the majority of their night [with] free time because the homework doesn't take long. At private school, I spend long nights doing homework."

Another reason students decide to attend private school is for athletics.

"What caused me to leave was just a better opportunity," Jackson Zager said. Zager goes to IMG Academy in Florida, a private boarding school, where he plays football and trains with a special quarterback coach through their integrated athletics and education programs.

While there are various reasons that would cause someone to bypass Staples in favor of a private education, the question then becomes: is a private education and experience really better?

While Niche ratings give Staples and many of Connecticut's popular private schools similar scores, the answer to this question entirely depends on the person. Some people fit best at public school; some people fit best at private school. While some Westport high schoolers have found their perfect fit at private schools, others came back to Staples because it proved to be a better match for them.

Simon Sandrew '21 attended Fairfield Preparatory School for his freshman year, but Prep's largely athletic focus didn't provide him with the academic challenge he was seeking. Because of this, he returned to Staples for his sophomore year.

"[Prep] was a very traditional style of teaching that did not really offer the most advanced teaching that Staples has," Sandrew said. "The average Staples student would breeze through a Prep curriculum."

Going to school is an important part of growing up for most Westport teens. Choosing where to get an education is an extremely personal decision, one that many different factors can affect. Ultimately, finding the best fit for each individual, whether that be public or private, is what drives the movement between schools.

Diana Hoffman '21 switched to Greens Farms Academy after she graduated from Bedford Middle School but came back to Staples after one year because the atmosphere wasn't the right fit for her.

"I really liked my classes and I really liked my teachers but I just think that the small school ended up being not right for me, and I think I do better in a larger environment," Hoffman said.

In deciding which high school to attend, it conclusively boils down to finding where one will be the happiest and the most comfortable.

"I'm happy [at Staples]," Sandrew said. "I'm really content and comfortable with being myself, something that I couldn't do at private school."

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See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

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Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor.

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Solidcore takes pilates to the next level

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Solidcore takes pilates to the next level

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Reformers, spin bikes, rowers and yoga mats are something that Westport citizens know all too well. But Solidcore takes pride in their small classes and intensified level to differentiate their class from all the others.
With 40 locations all across America, Solidcore finally moved to Westport located on 374 Post Road East. Its grand opening was in November 2018, providing an intense pilates class at a convenient location.
"I went to Solidcore last weekend and I am still sore from it." Nicole Jamison '21 said. "It was really hard but so much fun."
The high intensity, low impact workout class focuses on strengthening your muscles. Unlike other pilates places, they focus on one-on-one attention to make sure that each move you complete is correct so that no injuries occur and you leave feeling like you made progress.
According to Joanna Jung, the Westport studio manager, the workout is meant to be challenging and purposefully sequenced to work each muscle.
"We hope to bring a challenging workout, that helps people realize their fullest potential with their bodies," Jung said. "You'll leave feeling shaky yet strong."
Solidcore also takes pride in the fact that anybody can take this class. There is a beginner class which teaches the basics to people new to working out and are nervous for their first Solidcore class, and a full body class which is the signature 50 minute muscle working class. No matter what level you are, there is a class for everyone.
"Although I have not been to Solidcore yet, I think I would really enjoy it," Hailey Nussbaum '20 said. "I like how they recognize that not everyone is great at working out."
Solidcore is thrilled to have anyone and everyone in Westport come and challenge themselves to workout and have a good time.
"When you're in the studio you're a part of a team. This teammate environment in the studio makes for a stronger community outside the studio,"Jung said. "We really are a family here at Solidcore."

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Solidcore takes pilates to the next level

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Reformers, spin bikes, rowers and yoga mats are something that Westport citizens know all too well. But Solidcore takes pride in their small classes and intensified level to differentiate their class from all the others. With 40 locations all across America, Solidcore finally moved to Westport located on 374 Post Road East.

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Third parties hack Nest cameras in Westport

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Third parties hack Nest cameras in Westport

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/02/04/third-parties-hack-nest-cameras-in-westport/

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State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

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State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

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News Article

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First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics.

Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave them the opportunity to ask questions. It was announced that Staples will no longer house CMS eighth graders and that all sixth through eighth-grade students will go to Bedford. The Representative Town Meeting appropriated one million dollars for the installation of six portable classrooms in August.

"I'm pleased that we're now at the point where there's some degree of certainty as we move forward because I know that's been one of the frustrations over the last few months," Marpe said.

Repair of CMS is the long-term plan, which Public Works and building officials are already working towards, with hopes that the school will be reoccupied by the fall of 2020.

The "Tools for Schools" committee was pioneered as a system to immediately report any building issues at the various Westport Schools and to prevent a repeat of the CMS mold problem.

Board of Education (BOE) Chairman Mark Mathias believes that Westport united to solve the CMS mold situation.

"We are demonstrating not only to our students and town, but to the rest of the world that we are a town that when something comes up, we will tackle it, as a town, as a community, and we will be better as a result," Mathias said, emphasizing how the CMS mold issues didn't impact the BOE's commitment to enhancing students' education and environment.

Solar panels are planned to be installed in Staples as part of a continuing partnership with the Westport Green Initiative. The end goal is to become a "net zero" Carbon emissions town. The BOE is also constantly seeking out new course opportunities to align the curriculum offered with the needs of every student.

Mathias also referenced the schools' progress over the past year, including accolades such as Staples' ranking as the top high school in Connecticut by Niche and having the highest average SAT score in the state.

But according to Marpe, with the state's proposed regionalization of school districts with 20,000 or fewer residents, Staples' future may not be as transparent as one may think. Marpe communicated uncertainty over the proposal and underscored the need for caution if it became mandated for our town.

"Westport has set the bar for world-class school systems throughout the nation, and I'm concerned about the possibility of combining [with another district...] I think we have a lot to lose as to the quality and attractiveness of our community," Marpe said.

A more current perturbation is the lack of predictability and sufficiency in state funding for education. Marpe advised town legislators to limit the introduction of mandates to unfunded municipalities.

Despite these deterrents, Marpe expressed optimism about the town's condition and what is to come.

"I'm confident about where we are as a town and where we're going in the future because I know that all of us: our schools, families, elected and appointed officials; our town employees; our businesses; and every volunteer who contributes to the success of our town, are fully engaged and committed to making Westport the very best it can be," he said.

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State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

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First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics. Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave...

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Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

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Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/07/in-budget-cutting-attempt-governor-ned-lamont-proposes-school-redistricting-bill/

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Anti-Semitism accusations plague 2019 Women’s March

# data[].attributes.subject
Anti-Semitism accusations plague 2019 Women’s March

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/01/28/anti-semitism-accusations-plague-2019-womens-march/

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As the holiday season approaches, houses are decorated, presents are bought and families reunite. With colder air and shorter days, Staples students look forward to the gifts they will receive and the food they will eat.
To math teacher Stacey Delmhorst, however, the holiday season is about giving rather than receiving. Therefore, she created a way for students to give back to lower income students by "adopting" a student for each of her five classes to buy and wrap holiday presents.
"It all started around when [Staples was] focusing on the new guiding principles," Delmhorst said, "so kindness with sincerity is where I took it from. I thought wouldn't it be amazing if I could adopt a child for each of my five classes and we could give that child a holiday."
Not only is this one of Delmhorst's favorite ways to celebrate the holidays, but the students also appreciated the opportunity to give back.
"My favorite part was putting all of the gifts together and seeing the pile of gifts that was going to make our kid so happy," Kelley Schutte '20 said.
Whether they bought toys, a winter jacket or a toothbrush, Schutte was happy knowing that she made someone else's holiday better.
"I love giving gifts especially knowing that the student will appreciate them," Tomaso Scotti '19 said.
Scotti believes that wrapping presents for those who cannot afford it is a really special way to celebrate the holidays and believes other classes should follow in Delmhorst's footsteps.
Parents have also been grateful their children are able to give back, and some have even offered to help purchase any gifts on the child's list that were not already bought.
Delmhorst noticed that in addition to experiencing the joy of giving to others, the students benefited from this project by working together.
"I see people working together and talking that I have never seen sit or talk together in class," Delmhorst said. "It brings everyone together in a way that is a special."

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Math classes wrap presents for underprivileged students

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As the holiday season approaches, houses are decorated, presents are bought and families reunite. With colder air and shorter days, Staples students look forward to the gifts they will receive and the food they will eat. To math teacher Stacey Delmhorst, however, the holiday season is about giving rather than receiving.

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Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

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Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/07/in-budget-cutting-attempt-governor-ned-lamont-proposes-school-redistricting-bill/

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Continuing Educations offers summer courses for credit

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Continuing Educations offers summer courses for credit

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/26/a-trip-into-learning-continuing-educations-proffers-summer-courses-for-credit/

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James D’Amico steps down as Staples principal

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James D’Amico steps down as Staples principal

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/10/james-damico-steps-down-as-staples-principal/

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See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

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See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/25/see-ya-staples-why-westport-students-choose-private-schools/

# data[].attributes.headline
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.subject
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/01/state-of-the-town-address-clarifies-coleytown-plans-future-of-staples/

# data[].attributes.headline
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.subject
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/25/see-ya-staples-why-westport-students-choose-private-schools/

# data[].attributes.headline
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools (Feature)

# data[].attributes.subject
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools (Feature)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor. This is a common scene during the five-minute passing time between classes at Staples High School, one that most Staples students have become very familiar with as they make their way to their next class.

Staples High School is ranked the best overall public school in the state of Connecticut by Niche, scoring highly in academics, college preparation and activities. Yet each year, some high schoolers from Westport choose to go to private schools rather than attending Staples.

There are many reasons why people seek a private school education outside of the Westport Public School System; some switch to private school for a more individualized environment. Riley Tooker attended Staples freshman year but transferred to Hopkins before her sophomore year.

"I left Staples because I didn't really like how big the class sizes were," Tooker said. "I wanted a more personalized learning experience with smaller classes so that I could really be engaged."

Ava Block chose to leave Staples and enroll at Berkshire School in Massachusetts for similar reasons as Tooker.
"I wanted to go to a smaller school, and there are only about 400 people in my whole school and about eight in each of my classes," Block said.

Furthermore, some kids believe that the smaller classes at private school allow for a stronger bond between students and teachers and that this is beneficial to their education.

"Because private schools are smaller, there is a lot more attention on each student," Kate Loffredo, who transferred to Hopkins, said. "There are such strong student-teacher relationships and every teacher can truly learn everything they need to know about a student to help further their education."

Academically, a common belief that fuels many students' decisions to transfer stems from the idea that a private school education will provide an advantage for getting accepted to colleges. With the idea of college on the minds of many high schoolers, some students believe that Staples cannot offer the level of academics suitable to get into their "dream school."

"Hopkins' rigorous academics and smaller environment will help through the college process," Riley Lipman said, finding that Hopkins rather than Staples was a better fit for her both academically and athletically. "Staples students seem to spend the majority of their night [with] free time because the homework doesn't take long. At private school, I spend long nights doing homework."

Another reason students decide to attend private school is for athletics.

"What caused me to leave was just a better opportunity," Jackson Zager said. Zager goes to IMG Academy in Florida, a private boarding school, where he plays football and trains with a special quarterback coach through their integrated athletics and education programs.

While there are various reasons that would cause someone to bypass Staples in favor of a private education, the question then becomes: is a private education and experience really better?

While Niche ratings give Staples and many of Connecticut's popular private schools similar scores, the answer to this question entirely depends on the person. Some people fit best at public school; some people fit best at private school. While some Westport high schoolers have found their perfect fit at private schools, others came back to Staples because it proved to be a better match for them.

Simon Sandrew '21 attended Fairfield Preparatory School for his freshman year, but Prep's largely athletic focus didn't provide him with the academic challenge he was seeking. Because of this, he returned to Staples for his sophomore year.

"[Prep] was a very traditional style of teaching that did not really offer the most advanced teaching that Staples has," Sandrew said. "The average Staples student would breeze through a Prep curriculum."

Going to school is an important part of growing up for most Westport teens. Choosing where to get an education is an extremely personal decision, one that many different factors can affect. Ultimately, finding the best fit for each individual, whether that be public or private, is what drives the movement between schools.

Diana Hoffman '21 switched to Greens Farms Academy after she graduated from Bedford Middle School but came back to Staples after one year because the atmosphere wasn't the right fit for her.

"I really liked my classes and I really liked my teachers but I just think that the small school ended up being not right for me, and I think I do better in a larger environment," Hoffman said.

In deciding which high school to attend, it conclusively boils down to finding where one will be the happiest and the most comfortable.

"I'm happy [at Staples]," Sandrew said. "I'm really content and comfortable with being myself, something that I couldn't do at private school."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor.

# data[].attributes.headline
Supreme Court enforces transgender military ban

# data[].attributes.subject
Supreme Court enforces transgender military ban

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/01/23/supreme-court-enforces-transgender-military-ban/

# data[].attributes.headline
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.subject
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/02/18/popular-westport-restaurants-fail-health-inspection/

# data[].attributes.headline
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.subject
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/02/18/popular-westport-restaurants-fail-health-inspection/

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/01/state-of-the-town-address-clarifies-coleytown-plans-future-of-staples/

# data[].attributes.headline
Continuing Educations offers summer courses for credit

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Continuing Educations offers summer courses for credit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Swimming at the beach, going to camp, traveling- we think of summer vacation as a blissful time free of homework or exams when students can rest and enjoy themselves before the school year starts again. Yet for some, summer is the perfect time to head back to the classrooms and learn something new, get ahead or free up their schedules for next year.

Westport Continuing Education offers a variety of summer courses geared towards acquiring a specific skill. Many full-year classes are available as graded courses over the summer that would count towards students' graduation requirements and are something to consider during course selection.

"I'd recommend [a Continuing Education summer course] to anybody looking to get ahead and take an AP class or another class they want to do rather than just something they're required to," Adam Kane '21 said.
Kane took chemistry last summer to take AP Biology in its place as a sophomore and feels that he got a lot out of the class without having to spend over a half-hour on daily homework.

Students get the same in-depth material out of a summer course as a full-year class, as each day of summer school has the same class time as around a week of regular school, according to William Jones, a Staples Chemistry and Physics teacher who teaches chemistry at Continuing Education. Jones' summer Chemistry A class covers 5-10 percent more than the full-year course, including an introduction to thermodynamics.

"[Continuing Education allows students] to free up their schedule in the fall to take more advanced courses or electives [or] gain additional skills and experience for them to consider a college or career choice for the future," Christine Jewell, Continuing Education director, said. "Taking a summer course helps alleviate 'brain drain' and prepare for next year."
Last year, 84 students registered for summer High School Credit Courses, which cost $1,300 for six weeks, according to Jewell.

Educational and scheduling advantages are not the only benefit that students say come with taking a Continuing Education summer course.

"I made a few friends going into high school, so it really helped me find new people from other schools and made the transition into high school easier," Brianna Dwyer '20 said.
Dwyer took a Geometry A class at Continuing Education before freshman year.

Additionally, Continuing Education offers many summer courses not counted towards graduation requirements. "College Essay Bootcamp," co-taught by Staples English teachers Mary Katherine Hocking and Jamie Pacuk, serves to guide students along the college essay writing process.

"It's a week long, intensive class geared for students who would like to [...] get lessons on writing, get very specific structured feedback and leave with a polished essay that they can use for their common app," Pacuk said.

Costing $295 for a week of personalized writing and tips, the course provides a relatively cheap option for juniors going into their senior year looking to get started early on applications.

"[It] can be more affordable than private tutoring, so it's a great opportunity to work collaboratively with a teacher and other students with a common goal in mind." Hocking said. "It's a low stakes, stress free week to get ahead."

While each Continuing Education class provides a unique experience, there's one thing they all share: a new learning opportunity, in what many deem a relaxed environment.

"It's nice to focus on only one subject, the class usually develops a real camaraderie, [...] you open up a lot of options for yourself in terms of taking different or advanced science classes (or you can just get a yucky science credit out of the way), and you're still done with class at 12:15 each day to head to the beach," Jones said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Continuing Educations offers summer courses for credit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming at the beach, going to camp, traveling- we think of summer vacation as a blissful time free of homework or exams when students can rest and enjoy themselves before the school year starts again. Yet for some, summer is the perfect time to head back to the classrooms and learn something new, get ahead...

# data[].attributes.headline
Unclear Recycling Policy Yields Confusion in Cafeteria

# data[].attributes.subject
Unclear Recycling Policy Yields Confusion in Cafeteria

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Unclear recycling policy yields confusion in cafeteria

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/25/see-ya-staples-why-westport-students-choose-private-schools/

# data[].attributes.headline
Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

# data[].attributes.subject
Governor Lamont proposes school redistricting bill

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/07/in-budget-cutting-attempt-governor-ned-lamont-proposes-school-redistricting-bill/

# data[].attributes.headline
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.subject
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/02/18/popular-westport-restaurants-fail-health-inspection/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor. This is a common scene during the five-minute passing time between classes at Staples High School, one that most Staples students have become very familiar with as they make their way to their next class.

Staples High School is ranked the best overall public school in the state of Connecticut by Niche, scoring highly in academics, college preparation and activities. Yet each year, some high schoolers from Westport choose to go to private schools rather than attending Staples.

There are many reasons why people seek a private school education outside of the Westport Public School System; some switch to private school for a more individualized environment. Riley Tooker attended Staples freshman year but transferred to Hopkins before her sophomore year.

"I left Staples because I didn't really like how big the class sizes were," Tooker said. "I wanted a more personalized learning experience with smaller classes so that I could really be engaged."

Ava Block chose to leave Staples and enroll at Berkshire School in Massachusetts for similar reasons as Tooker.
"I wanted to go to a smaller school, and there are only about 400 people in my whole school and about eight in each of my classes," Block said.

Furthermore, some kids believe that the smaller classes at private school allow for a stronger bond between students and teachers and that this is beneficial to their education.

"Because private schools are smaller, there is a lot more attention on each student," Kate Loffredo, who transferred to Hopkins, said. "There are such strong student-teacher relationships and every teacher can truly learn everything they need to know about a student to help further their education."

Academically, a common belief that fuels many students' decisions to transfer stems from the idea that a private school education will provide an advantage for getting accepted to colleges. With the idea of college on the minds of many high schoolers, some students believe that Staples cannot offer the level of academics suitable to get into their "dream school."

"Hopkins' rigorous academics and smaller environment will help through the college process," Riley Lipman said, finding that Hopkins rather than Staples was a better fit for her both academically and athletically. "Staples students seem to spend the majority of their night [with] free time because the homework doesn't take long. At private school, I spend long nights doing homework."

Another reason students decide to attend private school is for athletics.

"What caused me to leave was just a better opportunity," Jackson Zager said. Zager goes to IMG Academy in Florida, a private boarding school, where he plays football and trains with a special quarterback coach through their integrated athletics and education programs.

While there are various reasons that would cause someone to bypass Staples in favor of a private education, the question then becomes: is a private education and experience really better?

While Niche ratings give Staples and many of Connecticut's popular private schools similar scores, the answer to this question entirely depends on the person. Some people fit best at public school; some people fit best at private school. While some Westport high schoolers have found their perfect fit at private schools, others came back to Staples because it proved to be a better match for them.

Simon Sandrew '21 attended Fairfield Preparatory School for his freshman year, but Prep's largely athletic focus didn't provide him with the academic challenge he was seeking. Because of this, he returned to Staples for his sophomore year.

"[Prep] was a very traditional style of teaching that did not really offer the most advanced teaching that Staples has," Sandrew said. "The average Staples student would breeze through a Prep curriculum."

Going to school is an important part of growing up for most Westport teens. Choosing where to get an education is an extremely personal decision, one that many different factors can affect. Ultimately, finding the best fit for each individual, whether that be public or private, is what drives the movement between schools.

Diana Hoffman '21 switched to Greens Farms Academy after she graduated from Bedford Middle School but came back to Staples after one year because the atmosphere wasn't the right fit for her.

"I really liked my classes and I really liked my teachers but I just think that the small school ended up being not right for me, and I think I do better in a larger environment," Hoffman said.

In deciding which high school to attend, it conclusively boils down to finding where one will be the happiest and the most comfortable.

"I'm happy [at Staples]," Sandrew said. "I'm really content and comfortable with being myself, something that I couldn't do at private school."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor.

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Trump Declares National Emergency Over Border Security Dispute 

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Trump Declares National Emergency Over Border Security Dispute 

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President Donald Trump declared a national emergency to provide funding to build a barrier at the Southern border of the United States.

The move came after a deal to avoid a government shutdown provided Trump with $1.3 billion to fund border security.

"We're talking about an invasion of our country, with drugs, with human traffickers, with all types of criminals and gangs," Trump said in a press conference following the national emergency declaration.

Many, including Trump, are expecting that the decision will go to the courts to decide its constitutionality.

Luke Welch's '19 support for the declaration of a national emergency is unfazed by the likely upcoming legal battle.

"It's going to be challenged by Democrats in Congress as well as the courts," Welch said. "But I think it was the right move to avoid another shutdown that denies federal workers they paycheck."

However, some believe that, should the national emergency be held up, future presidents could abuse the expansion of executive power.

"This sets a terrible precedent for future presidents," Gary Lu '21 said. "This national emergency was created out of very little and weak statistical evidence."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Trump declares national emergency over border security dispute

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President Donald Trump declared a national emergency to provide funding to build a barrier at the Southern border of the United States. The move came after a deal to avoid a government shutdown provided Trump with $1.3 billion to fund border security. "We're talking about an invasion of our country, with drugs, with human traffickers,...

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State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples 
(News)

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State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples 
(News)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics.

Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave them the opportunity to ask questions. It was announced that Staples will no longer house CMS eighth graders and that all sixth through eighth-grade students will go to Bedford. The Representative Town Meeting appropriated one million dollars for the installation of six portable classrooms in August.

"I'm pleased that we're now at the point where there's some degree of certainty as we move forward because I know that's been one of the frustrations over the last few months," Marpe said.

Repair of CMS is the long-term plan, which Public Works and building officials are already working towards, with hopes that the school will be reoccupied by the fall of 2020.

The "Tools for Schools" committee was pioneered as a system to immediately report any building issues at the various Westport Schools and to prevent a repeat of the CMS mold problem.

Board of Education (BOE) Chairman Mark Mathias believes that Westport united to solve the CMS mold situation.

"We are demonstrating not only to our students and town, but to the rest of the world that we are a town that when something comes up, we will tackle it, as a town, as a community, and we will be better as a result," Mathias said, emphasizing how the CMS mold issues didn't impact the BOE's commitment to enhancing students' education and environment.

Solar panels are planned to be installed in Staples as part of a continuing partnership with the Westport Green Initiative. The end goal is to become a "net zero" Carbon emissions town. The BOE is also constantly seeking out new course opportunities to align the curriculum offered with the needs of every student.

Mathias also referenced the schools' progress over the past year, including accolades such as Staples' ranking as the top high school in Connecticut by Niche and having the highest average SAT score in the state.

But according to Marpe, with the state's proposed regionalization of school districts with 20,000 or fewer residents, Staples' future may not be as transparent as one may think. Marpe communicated uncertainty over the proposal and underscored the need for caution if it became mandated for our town.

"Westport has set the bar for world-class school systems throughout the nation, and I'm concerned about the possibility of combining [with another district...] I think we have a lot to lose as to the quality and attractiveness of our community," Marpe said.

A more current perturbation is the lack of predictability and sufficiency in state funding for education. Marpe advised town legislators to limit the introduction of mandates to unfunded municipalities.

Despite these deterrents, Marpe expressed optimism about the town's condition and what is to come.

"I'm confident about where we are as a town and where we're going in the future because I know that all of us: our schools, families, elected and appointed officials; our town employees; our businesses; and every volunteer who contributes to the success of our town, are fully engaged and committed to making Westport the very best it can be," he said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics. Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave...

# data[].attributes.headline
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.subject
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/01/state-of-the-town-address-clarifies-coleytown-plans-future-of-staples/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Five very popular Westport dining spots failed their health inspections in late December and early January. These restaurants include Parker Mansion, Sherwood Diner, Julian's Pizza Bar & Kitchen, Jeera Thai, Little Kitchen and Viva Zapata.

The purpose of these health inspections are to address the health and safety of restaurants and prevent the spread of foodborne disease, according to the Westport Weston Health District. The inspections are conducted every three months. Alone, the Westport Weston Health District inspects over 200 food establishments.

"It makes me uncomfortable because I often eat at those restaurants with my family and if I go there regularly I want to know that my food is not contaminated," Jessica Plotkin '20 said.

The scoring is assessed on a 100 point scale but the health district is hoping to change this to a pass-fail system in the future. Chief Sanitarian Jeffrey Andrews shared with a Westport News reporter that the Sherwood Diner received a 79/100, Viva Zapata received a 75/100 while Julian's earned the lowest score of 64/100 due to food temperature violations.

A restaurant fails their inspection if they receive lower than a score of 80 or make any very critical violations. The result of an inspection failure calls for a reinspection about two weeks later, Andrews proceeded to explain to Westport News.

However, the Staples High School Cafeteria received a 92 for their inspection.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Popular Westport restaurants fail health inspection

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Five very popular Westport dining spots failed their health inspections in late December and early January. These restaurants include Parker Mansion, Sherwood Diner, Julian's Pizza Bar & Kitchen, Jeera Thai, Little Kitchen and Viva Zapata. The purpose of these health inspections are to address the health and safety of restaurants and prevent the spread of...

# data[].attributes.headline
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.subject
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor. This is a common scene during the five-minute passing time between classes at Staples High School, one that most Staples students have become very familiar with as they make their way to their next class.

Staples High School is ranked the best overall public school in the state of Connecticut by Niche, scoring highly in academics, college preparation and activities. Yet each year, some high schoolers from Westport choose to go to private schools rather than attending Staples.

There are many reasons why people seek a private school education outside of the Westport Public School System; some switch to private school for a more individualized environment. Riley Tooker attended Staples freshman year but transferred to Hopkins before her sophomore year.

"I left Staples because I didn't really like how big the class sizes were," Tooker said. "I wanted a more personalized learning experience with smaller classes so that I could really be engaged."

Ava Block chose to leave Staples and enroll at Berkshire School in Massachusetts for similar reasons as Tooker.
"I wanted to go to a smaller school, and there are only about 400 people in my whole school and about eight in each of my classes," Block said.

Furthermore, some kids believe that the smaller classes at private school allow for a stronger bond between students and teachers and that this is beneficial to their education.

"Because private schools are smaller, there is a lot more attention on each student," Kate Loffredo, who transferred to Hopkins, said. "There are such strong student-teacher relationships and every teacher can truly learn everything they need to know about a student to help further their education."

Academically, a common belief that fuels many students' decisions to transfer stems from the idea that a private school education will provide an advantage for getting accepted to colleges. With the idea of college on the minds of many high schoolers, some students believe that Staples cannot offer the level of academics suitable to get into their "dream school."

"Hopkins' rigorous academics and smaller environment will help through the college process," Riley Lipman said, finding that Hopkins rather than Staples was a better fit for her both academically and athletically. "Staples students seem to spend the majority of their night [with] free time because the homework doesn't take long. At private school, I spend long nights doing homework."

Another reason students decide to attend private school is for athletics.

"What caused me to leave was just a better opportunity," Jackson Zager said. Zager goes to IMG Academy in Florida, a private boarding school, where he plays football and trains with a special quarterback coach through their integrated athletics and education programs.

While there are various reasons that would cause someone to bypass Staples in favor of a private education, the question then becomes: is a private education and experience really better?

While Niche ratings give Staples and many of Connecticut's popular private schools similar scores, the answer to this question entirely depends on the person. Some people fit best at public school; some people fit best at private school. While some Westport high schoolers have found their perfect fit at private schools, others came back to Staples because it proved to be a better match for them.

Simon Sandrew '21 attended Fairfield Preparatory School for his freshman year, but Prep's largely athletic focus didn't provide him with the academic challenge he was seeking. Because of this, he returned to Staples for his sophomore year.

"[Prep] was a very traditional style of teaching that did not really offer the most advanced teaching that Staples has," Sandrew said. "The average Staples student would breeze through a Prep curriculum."

Going to school is an important part of growing up for most Westport teens. Choosing where to get an education is an extremely personal decision, one that many different factors can affect. Ultimately, finding the best fit for each individual, whether that be public or private, is what drives the movement between schools.

Diana Hoffman '21 switched to Greens Farms Academy after she graduated from Bedford Middle School but came back to Staples after one year because the atmosphere wasn't the right fit for her.

"I really liked my classes and I really liked my teachers but I just think that the small school ended up being not right for me, and I think I do better in a larger environment," Hoffman said.

In deciding which high school to attend, it conclusively boils down to finding where one will be the happiest and the most comfortable.

"I'm happy [at Staples]," Sandrew said. "I'm really content and comfortable with being myself, something that I couldn't do at private school."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
See ya, Staples: Why Westport students choose private schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hundreds of students shuffle through the hallways, their books and binders safely stored in backpacks slung across their shoulders. Friendly chatter echoes through the stairwells as students climb up and down, some left out of breath after the seemingly long trek from first to third floor.

# data[].attributes.headline
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.subject
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics.

Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave them the opportunity to ask questions. It was announced that Staples will no longer house CMS eighth graders and that all sixth through eighth-grade students will go to Bedford. The Representative Town Meeting appropriated one million dollars for the installation of six portable classrooms in August.

"I'm pleased that we're now at the point where there's some degree of certainty as we move forward because I know that's been one of the frustrations over the last few months," Marpe said.

Repair of CMS is the long-term plan, which Public Works and building officials are already working towards, with hopes that the school will be reoccupied by the fall of 2020.

The "Tools for Schools" committee was pioneered as a system to immediately report any building issues at the various Westport Schools and to prevent a repeat of the CMS mold problem.

Board of Education (BOE) Chairman Mark Mathias believes that Westport united to solve the CMS mold situation.

"We are demonstrating not only to our students and town, but to the rest of the world that we are a town that when something comes up, we will tackle it, as a town, as a community, and we will be better as a result," Mathias said, emphasizing how the CMS mold issues didn't impact the BOE's commitment to enhancing students' education and environment.

Solar panels are planned to be installed in Staples as part of a continuing partnership with the Westport Green Initiative. The end goal is to become a "net zero" Carbon emissions town. The BOE is also constantly seeking out new course opportunities to align the curriculum offered with the needs of every student.

Mathias also referenced the schools' progress over the past year, including accolades such as Staples' ranking as the top high school in Connecticut by Niche and having the highest average SAT score in the state.

But according to Marpe, with the state's proposed regionalization of school districts with 20,000 or fewer residents, Staples' future may not be as transparent as one may think. Marpe communicated uncertainty over the proposal and underscored the need for caution if it became mandated for our town.

"Westport has set the bar for world-class school systems throughout the nation, and I'm concerned about the possibility of combining [with another district...] I think we have a lot to lose as to the quality and attractiveness of our community," Marpe said.

A more current perturbation is the lack of predictability and sufficiency in state funding for education. Marpe advised town legislators to limit the introduction of mandates to unfunded municipalities.

Despite these deterrents, Marpe expressed optimism about the town's condition and what is to come.

"I'm confident about where we are as a town and where we're going in the future because I know that all of us: our schools, families, elected and appointed officials; our town employees; our businesses; and every volunteer who contributes to the success of our town, are fully engaged and committed to making Westport the very best it can be," he said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
State of the Town Address clarifies Coleytown plans, future of Staples

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
First Selectman Jim Marpe spoke at the State of the Town meeting on Feb. 10 at the Town Hall to discuss fiscal challenges, multi-family housing developments and Coleytown Middle School (CMS), among other topics. Westport's State of The Town meeting presented residents with an update on the town's progress over the past year and gave...

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Parkland one year anniversary calls for reflection on past year

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Parkland one year anniversary calls for reflection on past year

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/02/28/parkland-one-year-anniversary-calls-for-reflection-on-past-year/

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Builders Beyond Borders ventures to Guatemala

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Builders Beyond Borders ventures to Guatemala

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/b/2019/03/01/builders-beyond-borders-ventures-to-guatemala/

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Westport's Chipotle restaurant closes it's doors

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Westport's Chipotle restaurant closes it's doors

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http://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2018/12/17/westports-chipotle-mexican-restaurant-closing-its-doors/

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Actor Jussie Smollett was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct after allegedly filing a fake police report about an attack. Smollett reported to the Chicago police that two men committed a hate crime against him on Jan. 29, but it was later reported by the Chicago police department that Smollett hired them and staged the whole act.

Smollett, an African American gay man, claimed he was targeted because he is part of minority groups, and upon initially reporting the attack, Smollett received support from black and LGBTQ communities for bringing attention to the violence and prejudices against minorities.

Staples students have taken great issue with the actions possibly taken by Smollett.

"This will definitely impact minorities and it'll make it that much harder for anyone to report being the target of a hate crime," Cat Graham '19 said. "Jussie Smollett is a Hollywood star with name recognition and although he had immense support when he was first 'attacked,' there were still people who didn't believe him. So now I think anytime a real hate crime is reported and makes it into the news, the doubters will be far more skeptical."

According to an article on Vox , "Chicago police confirmed that Smollett was now the suspect in a criminal investigation [...]. The police then arrested Smollett on Thursday. They said that Smollett had paid two men, one of whom he knew from Empire, $3,500 to fake the attack."

Once evidence, such as the $3,500 check signed by Smollett, was found in the possession of his attackers, many people were upset about what this could mean about press surrounding future hate crimes.

"It was clearly just a stunt for attention, and that detracts from the seriousness of real hate crimes," Michael Fording '19 said.

Reasons as to why Smollett could have staged this crime surfaced, with speculations including that Smollett was dissatisfied with his pay at "Empire" and wanted to gain publicity.

According to an article published in , the two suspects who Smollett hired to attack him, "provided police with the information that Smollett set up the faux attack because he was unhappy with this salary."

There was also speculation that Smollett was dissatisfied with Fox's response to a homophobic letter that he claimed someone sent him. However, prosecutors later claimed that Smollett sent it to himself.

Smollett has since been fired from "Empire" and the two suspects apologized and were released by police without charges.

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Jussie Smollett allegedly stages attack, increases dialogue about hate crimes

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Actor Jussie Smollett was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct after allegedly filing a fake police report about an attack. Smollett reported to the Chicago police that two men committed a hate crime against him on Jan. 29, but it was later reported by the Chicago police department that Smollett hired them and staged the...

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James D'Amico Steps Down as Staples Principal

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James D'Amico Steps Down as Staples Principal

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https://www.inklingsnews.com/news/2019/03/10/james-damico-steps-down-as-staples-principal/

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James D'Amico Steps Down as Staples Principal

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James D'Amico Steps Down as Staples Principal

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Molly Gold '21

Staples principal James D'Amico announced his resignation, effective at the end of June, in an email to Staples students and parents on Friday, March 8. After working at Staples for 18 years as a teacher and administrator, D'Amico has been appointed as principal of New Fairfield High School, his alma mater, starting in the 2019-2020 school year.

In his email, D'Amico stated that he "will work tirelessly every day to make our school the best possible place to learn for all students" for the remainder of the school year.

Many students are sad to see D'Amico leave, but wish him well on his new venture.

"Mr. D'Amico has been my principal since I started so it will be really different without him," Olivia Bernard '21 said. "It's going to be fun to have some change, though."

Westport superintendent Colleen Palmer released a statement announcing the beginning of a search for a new principal during the upcoming six months, with the help of Cooperative Education Services.

"This search process will be a top priority for us," Palmer wrote in her statement, "as we work to name our next principal to lead us forward in continued educational excellence."

Photo from Staples High School webpage

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James D'Amico steps down as Staples principal

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Molly Gold '21 Staples principal James D'Amico announced his resignation, effective at the end of June, in an email to Staples students and parents on Friday, March 8. After working at Staples for 18 years as a teacher and administrator, D'Amico has been appointed as principal of New Fairfield High School, his alma mater, starting...