Author Archives: The Advocate Online

SPORTS: Senior Captain Wargo Looks To Bring Winning Mentality To Boys Lacrosse Team

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Brian Goglia and Alex Rodriguez – Staff Reporters

Senior Dylan Wargo, the captain of the boys lacrosse team, is looking to turn heads this year and exceed expectations. 

This season the team has been working harder than ever and are motivated to win as many games as possible. Wargo is looking forward to this season and going into this year’s game with a different mentality and winning mindset.

“Being the captain means holding myself and teammates to a higher level of accountability,” Wargo said. “I plan on going into every game this year with the mentality of winning and goal of improving as a teammate and player.”

Wargo has faced many challenges throughout his years of being on this boys lacrosse team but this year he is looking forward to overcoming everything. He also can’t wait to go into every game with a confident mindset and ready to go.

“One of the challenges I faced was being confident in a leadership position,” Wargo said. “I overcame this by growing closer to my teammates and being more comfortable explaining expectations.” 

Going into this year, Wargo and his team have been conditioning, lifting in the weight room, and holding many captains practices to be as ready as possible for this season. This is the first year that they have been doing all of this before a season. 

“The biggest difference between this year and last is our consistency,” Wargo said. “We have had significantly more captain’s practices, lifts, conditionings, etc.”

Wargo, a captain for the first time in his high school career, has been trying to push and motivate his team more and more before the start of the season and will continue when the season starts.

“I motivate the team by trying to get everyone on the same page for the season so that everyone is prepared to put in work day to day,” Wargo said. “Along with this try to make the conditionings and practices enjoyable.” 

Wargo has learned and been through a lot with ups and downs in the past season with this team. He is looking forward to this season because of how prepared and comfortable he is.

“I learned a lot about training hard in practice, making sure each day I’m getting better,” Wargo said. “Training hard in practice translates to playing hard, making you a better player. This will benefit me this year because I’ll be able to make good improvements and be a core part of the team.” 

NEWS: Law Drama Club Performs “Totally Fetch” Production Of “Mean Girls”

(Photo courtesy Fiorella Gargiulo)

By Kayla Markowitz – Editor-in-Chief

The Jonathan Law Drama Club invited audience members to “sit with them” with their preferences of “Mean Girls” on March 8-9.

The cast and stage crew put on one show on Friday, March 8, at 7 p.m. and two more preferences on Saturday, March 9, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The musical included songs, scenes, and characters from the original movie and Broadway show that absolutely dazzled the crowd. 

“The audience’s reactions and cheering and clapping all brought life to each performance, and it made the actors feel more comfortable on stage,” Drama Club Director JP Amaro said. “This show brought the most audience members that I have ever seen in the Jonathan Law auditorium and I couldn’t be more proud of the turnout that we had.”

Although it might’ve seemed effortless, the preparation carried out by all drama club members was no walk in the park. The cast and crew started rehearsing in November and worked countless hours every week to ensure the musical was ready to showcase by opening night. 

“We would rehearse Monday to Thursday from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. and work on the songs, scenes, and dances in the show,” said senior Hailey Russo, who played Regina George.

The audience members were blown away by the creative acting techniques while also getting a laugh out of the comical moments perfectly executed by the actors and actresses. 

“My favorite part was seeing my friends on stage (and managing),” audience member Helen Chizmazia said. “Overall, the show was very funny and entertaining to watch while still being very put-together.”

The cast members all showed their talents in the spotlight. However, a vital part of the musical comes from other roles like set designers, stage crew members, and choreographers who helped set the stage and immerse audience members into the scenes.  

“The sets were designed by our directors, JP and Brianna, then built by Chris Burton, Mike Radcliffe, Ken Sanogueira, Bill Rose which were a huge help to making the play happen,” senior crew member Isabelle Maselli said. “They were painted by everyone at “build” (the weekend before tech week, or the weekend before the show) which was both a bonding experience for all members and super fun and rewarding!”

The Drama Club prides itself on being welcoming towards everyone and creating a place where anyone can join to express themselves. All members can be a part of a group of people who would never write anything about each other in their “burn book.”

“I love the family that it creates – it brings people together who you normally wouldn’t expect to be friends,” said senior Drama Club President Toni Cepalia, who played Kevin. “It’s overall a great community that builds confidence and makes bonds that last throughout high school and beyond.”

Drama Club members aim to inspire each other and help each other grow, both on and off the stage. 

“My favorite part (about being in Drama Club) was not only learning about others but also myself,” said senior Lisette Soto, who made her Drama Club debut when she played Cady. “I fell in love with performing and learned more about my abilities, aligned with discovering a plethora of things I could do.”

SPORTS: Davis Brings Intangibles, Leadership To Jonathan Law Lacrosse Team

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Alexa Rosati and Michael Merchant – Staff Reporters 

Junior Tyler Davis, a standout player on Law’s lacrosse team, is not only a skilled athlete but also a leader who embodies the essence of teamwork and dedication. 

Davis’ exceptional abilities and commitment have become an important part of the team’s success. 

“What makes Tyler a good team player is his ability to communicate with his team on and off the field,” junior Thomas Rubenstein said. 

Davis’ leadership qualities have not gone unrecognized. 

“He is able to lead his team in the winning direction,” Rubenstein said. “Tyler knows what he’s going against and does not back down.”

Davis shed some light on his personal goals and offers insight on how he prepares for games.  

“One of my personal goals is to score,” Davis said. “I play defense so it is not that common.” 

He emphasizes the importance of listening to his coaches instruction and practicing repetitively. 

“I prepare for games by listening to my coach,” Davis said. “I like to make sure everyone on the team is ready to go and they know the game plan.”

His teammates see his devotion to the team and his ability to uplift and drive them to success. They highlight his infectious energy and determination.

“Tyler brings a lot of energy to the team,” junior Anthony Malave said. “He is strong and plays hard on the field.”

Davis is eagerly anticipating the upcoming season – which comes with the arrival of a new coach. He stresses the importance of making connections with teammates. 

“This year I’m looking forward to meeting the new coach,” Davis said. “I’m excited to build relationships with my teammates and have a fun season.”

ENTERTAINMENT: Rodrigo Follows Up Massive Debut Album With Another Classic In “Guts”

(Photo courtesy billboard.com)

By Alexia Poloski – Staff Reporter

Olivia Rodrigo released the pop-rock album “Guts” in September 2023. “Guts” is Rodrigo’s second studio album following her massive debut album “Sour.” 

“Guts” was predicted to be a radio hit ever since it was first announced in June 2023. The album includes 12 songs and spans 39 minutes. There is also one bonus song, “Obsessed,” that comes with the physical record if fans purchase it. 

“’Guts’ is another instant classic,” Rolling Stone Magazine said. “It includes some of her most ambitious, intimate and messy lyrics yet.”

The singles on “Guts” include “Vampire,” “Bad Idea, Right?,” and “Get Him Back.” While all of these songs are singles, they are all extremely different from one another. “Vampire” is a timeless ballad that captures Olivia’s real and raw emotions after a break up. “Bad Idea, Right?” is a classic radio hit with catchy lyrics and an upbeat melody. “Get Him Back” could also be considered a classic radio hit but it also has a very “campy” feel that makes the song all the more relatable.

The “Guts” album is most widely known for its punk rock ballads but it also has a number of heartfelt, slower, and melancholy songs as well. These songs include “Lacy,” “Making The Bed,” “Logical,” “The Grudge,” and “Teenage Dream.” “Lacy” touches on themes such as jealousy and desire. “The Grudge” is considered a fan favorite and speaks on a relationship that hurt way more than it hurt the other person – which a lot of young adults find relatable. 

While the “Guts” album was mainly produced by Olivia Rodrigo herself, it also featured work from co-producer Dan Nigro. Nigro also helped with the production of Olivia’s first studio album, “Sour”.

Songs featuring a music video include “Get Him Back,” “Vampire,” and“ Bad Idea, Right?” However, fans are anticipating more music videos in the near future.

While fans anticipated Olivia’s second album they were worried it would not live up to her first. However fans and the general public have quickly come to realize that the two albums serve two completely different purposes. As Teen Magazine writes, “Sour was so authentic and relatable to anyone going through a deep breakup. Whereas Guts was about every teenager’s life, heartbreak stereotypes and just life in general.”

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

SPORTS: Sophomore Scarpa Looks To Continue To Make Impact For Law Softball Team

(Photo courtesy Eric Relucio)

By Molly Lynch – Staff Reporter

Sophomore Sophia Scarpa is preparing for her second season on the Law varsity softball team.

Scarpa, a catcher for Law, is a great teammate who is goal-driven and dedicated to her sport. 

“She is always striving to better her craft and she is super coachable, listening to everything the coaches say,” Blude said.

Scarpa is dedicated and always works to her fullest potential.

“Last year, she came in as a freshman and immediately made an impact,” junior Ella Franzman said. “She was huge for us at the plate, she hit a few home runs, and had a lot of clutch hits.”

Scarpa’s work ethic and high energy impacts her teammates as well.

“My favorite quality of Soph as a softball player is that she can bring the mood up on the team if we’re down in the game, she’s the ultimate hype man,” sophomore Charlotte Doyle said. 

Scarpa is very encouraging and is brings a ton of positivity to the team.

“What makes Soph a good team player is that she always contributes to the team,” senior Grace Hess said. “She always cheers everyone and gives 100% no matter what. She is a team player.”

Even as a freshman last year, Scarpa’s leadership skills were evident.

“My favorite quality of Soph as a softball player is her hard work and dedication to the team,” sophomore Emily Roos said. 

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Law’s Paraeducators Make A Difference Every Day

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Quinn Willett – Social Media Editor 

Jonathan Law would not be the same without its group of dedicated, hard-working paraeducators. 

Law’s paraeducators take on many different roles and responsibilities on an daily basis. The group includes Mr. Boynton, Mr. Belade, Mr. Greenbaum, Ms. Leonard, Ms. Bourque, Mrs. Powers, Ms. Bartolomeo, Ms. Bencivengo, Mrs. Carolla, Mrs. Brennan, Ms. Brown, Ms. Fuentes, Mrs. Garnett, Mrs. Knoth, Mrs. Michels, Mr. Murphy, Mr. O’Reilly, Mrs. Pastick, and Mrs. White – all of whom lend a hand to Law’s special education students.

Powers is one of Law’s one-on-one paraeducators.

“I am a one-to-one paraeducator with one student under my care,” Powers said. “My day begins by driving to her home and riding the bus to school with her. She begins her day in a classroom with other students and she loves interacting with and learning with them. On most days we leave this classroom to go out into the community with a different set of students.”

Powers is not just a paraeducator at Law. She is also a friend and role model to so many of her students. 

This is Powers’ sixth year at Jonathan Law. She is one of the many paras at Law that contribute to making the community a more positive place.

“I am always so happy to see the kindness and respect that each group shows to the other,” Powers said. “In a perfect world we would all get along but here at Law I feel we do.” 

Michels, has also worked at Law for six years. She starts her day by greeting all the students she works with in the ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) Life Skills Program. 

“Law is a special place to work,” Michels said. “You feel like family when you’re here. The special education teachers and paraeducators all work together to make our students successful. We celebrate all accomplishments big and small. It’s simply the best.”

Leonard has been a paraeducator at Law for four years and said she loves the teachers and students she works with everyday.

“I enjoy working at Law very much,” Leonard said. “The best thing about working at Law is being supported 100% by the special education teachers. These wonderful teachers run classrooms with many levels of learning abilities and needs yet still find time to let us know how much they appreciate the work the paraeducators in their programs do. It’s a great feeling when your work is appreciated.”

NEWS: Law’s FBLA Club Takes Field Trip To New York’s Federal Reserve

(Photo courtesy Mr. Beler)

By Maya Markowitz – Social Media Editor

Members of Law’s Future Business Leaders of America Club got the opportunity to visit the New York Federal Reserve on February 22. 

Students spent the entire day in New York City, accompanied by Business teachers and FBLA Club advisors Mr. Beler and Mrs. Israelite. They got the opportunity to take a tour of the Federal Reserve and learn about how it works.

“The goal of the trip was to see one of the federal government’s institutions and see how it operates and see billions in gold,” Beler said. “The students received a tour of the vaults and participated in a scavenger hunt.”

The Federal Reserve is home to 507,000 gold bars, equating to billions of dollars in value. These are stored in the basement of the Federal Reserve, which are only seen on a request-only basis, usually limited to only those in certain counties of the United States. 

“I love to give students the opportunity to learn more about business and the economy in an interactive way,” Israelite said. “We were able to see billions of dollars worth of gold in the vaults. In addition, students were able to see the Statue of Liberty, the New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street Bull, and more.“

Students were able to ask questions and engage with global economies which is relevant to the work that they do in FBLA. 

“I learned about how the Federal Reserve was very important to the United States but also very important to other countries,” sophomore Alani Velez said. 

At the end of the trip, students were able to take part in different activities in the city including sightseeing and other leisurely activities. 

“My favorite part of the trip was renting and riding bikes around the city with friends while we waited for the train home,” junior Christian Galligan said. 

One of the highlights of the trip for some was seeing the Statue of Liberty. 

“I was really excited to see the Statue of Liberty because I’ve never seen it before,” senior Hailey Russo said. “The trip was such a good experience.”

ENTERTAINMENT: “Kyle XY” Series Continues To Thrill Sci-Fi Fans On Hulu

(Photo courtesy hulu.com)

By Ava Grippo – Staff Reporter 

Remember that show about the boy with no belly button? “Kyle XY,” a sci-fi series released in 2006, was about a teenage boy who was found alone and naked in the middle of the street with no memory. The Tragers, a middle class family, took him in and the lost boy quickly found a home.  

My birth was unconventional at best,” Kyle says. “My first memory was waking up in the forest. Like a newborn baby, I had no idea who I was or what was happening. My eyes weren’t sure what they were seeing. Every sight, sound and feeling was unfamiliar. Every species is born with instincts that ultimately create a balance with nature. Every species except the one I was born into.”

The cast consists of Matt Dallas, who plays Kyle; April Matson and Jean-Luc Bilodeau, who play Kyle’s new siblings, Josh and Lori; and Marguerite Maclntyre and Bruce Thomas, who play Kyle’s new adoptive parents. The show ran for three seasons with 44 episodes total. 

The mystery of where Kyle came from is explored throughout the show, with each episode revealing new clues that lead up to the big reveal. Kyle has no bellybutton, super smarts, polarity manipulation, holographic memory, superhuman senses, strength and durability, can manipulate his body electricity, and can heal injuries and diseases. 

The show gives you a look into Kyle’s minds and thoughts as he adjusts to his new life and the mysteries surrounding him. Kyle is determined to find out the truth of who he is. 

Kyle XY is full of drama, family, romance and mystery. Characters bonds are memorable, such as Kyle and Amanda, who’s dynamic has you rooting for them throughout the show. Josh, and his girlfriend Andy’s relationship is one that everyone desires. Kyle and his bromance with a character named Declen should be a friendship that people strive for. The family bonds with Kyle, Josh, and Lori warms the heart. The family and romance drama really keeps viewers entertained throughout the show. Even with the show bringing on quite a load of second hand embarrassment, it still manages to fill viewers with joy. 

“Life is a journey, and the road we travel has twists and turns which sometimes leads us to unexpected places and unexpected people,” Kyle says. “The road we travel is unpredictable, sometimes it’s smooth and sometimes it’s filled with bumps. But if we’re lucky, we find people to travel with us. Our journey is really a search, a yearning for love and connection,  and sometimes it leads us back home.” 

Don’t miss out of this sci-fi series just because it’s old and may seem a little odd. Want to find out the secret of Kyle’s past and why he has all these abilities? Hulu has you covered with an all three seasons! 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

NEWS: National Honor Society Members Prepare For Law’s Annual Brain Bowl

(Photo by Charlotte Rascoll)

By Charlotte Rascoll – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s annual Brain Bowl is rapidly approaching and members of the National Honor Society are working hard to make it perfect.

Preparing for the Brain Bowl includes more work than people are able to see. Members of NHS meet after school every Thursday, and for the past month and a half, have been working hard to prepare for the event.

NHS Advisor Mrs. Goldbeck said there are many steps that must be taken for a successful Brain Bowl to occur.

“All of the members are working on committees to bring the Brain Bowl to fruition,” Goldbeck said. “The committees include advertising, question creation, video creation, and logo design.”

Certain steps are taken in order to have a successful Brain Bowl this year, including establishing a timeline for certain tasks to be finished.

“I am sure as the date closes in, we will all be feeling the pressure,” Goldbeck said.

The members have been doing their best this year keeping up with preparations and getting them done.

I think that we’re doing really well in terms of preparation,” senior Sara Moshirzadeh said. “ I think the group of kids who stepped up this year have also been really important, we got the questions done pretty quickly, and the video was done wonderfully.”

This year the theme of the Brain Bowl is “The Hunger Games.”

A lot of people are liking the theme this year and I think it’s what’s getting people to work more behind the scenes or even take the preliminary test,” Moshirzadeh said.

Donations made for the Brain Bowl go to brain cancer Research. Students are encouraged to donate in order to help their team gain points.

 “What I enjoy about preparing for the Brain Bowl is that we are making a fun event for the school community and raising money for a good cause in brain cancer research,” senior member Chris Deprofio said. “Overall, this is a great event that everyone in the school enjoys, and it also helps us contribute to helping find a cure for brain cancer.”

Members of NHS are challenged to come up with ideas and get creative while prepping. 

“I enjoy all the advertisement things,” junior member Olivia Pisacane said. “Making the posters and creating ideas is so fun.”

SPORTS: Senior Captain Wywoda Helps Lead Law On, Off The Mound

(Photo courtesy @mikewywoda)

By Madi Black and Courtney Russo – Staff Reporters 

Senior captain Declan Wywoda is excited for the upcoming 2024 Jonathan Law baseball season.

Wywoda will help lead the Lawmen in many ways this spring – both as a captain and as a pitcher. 

“I plan on being a good leader by holding players accountable and making sure that everyone is working hard to benefit the team,” Wywoda said. “I plan on holding myself accountable as a leader to be a good example for younger players and be someone they look up to not only as a captain but as a friend as well.”

Wywoda has been with the team for all four years of his high school career. He has been leading the team since he was a freshman in many different ways. 

“In high school baseball a pitcher can take on more than 1 role during the season – a starter, middle reliever or closer at the end of the game,” Head Coach Mr. Simler said. “Declan is a very good pitcher that can help us in all of those pitching roles throughout the season.”

Wywoda is not very vocal but leads the team in many other ways. Assistant Coach Mr. McPartland hopes that every player follows Wywoda’s example. 

“He’ll influence the team most through his ability to lead by example,” McPartland said. “Declan is one of our captains this year and we want our other guys to emulate what he does.”

Many players on the team are inspired to follow Wywoda’s work ethic. 

Declan doesn’t fool around and gets the job done,” senior captain Hunter Hoxie said “He will keep everyone focused and encourage them to play better.”

The team is looking to make it to the state tournament this year after not making it last year. They hope Wywoda’s pitching and leadership will help get them there.

“Declan is a great leader, he’s a great communicator, works well with everybody, and leads by example,” senior captain Alex Bludevich said. “He shows up every day looking to get better and for everyone around him to get better.” 

Junior Christian Galligan agreed.

Declan will never bring anyone down, no matter who it is, or what they did wrong,” Galligan said. “Declan makes sure everyone keeps their heads up which is a huge key for success.”

The team has already started conditioning in order to get ready for the season. Many players have been practicing on their own, hoping it will help the team out during the season. 

The goal for the season is to first qualify for states and then to go win the state championship,” senior Tyler Nethercot said.

NEWS: Law’s SAVE Promise Club Hosts Activities For “Say Something Week”

(Photo courtesy @jlhssave)

By Layla Alogna & Avery Moulton – Staff Reporters

Jonathan Law’s SAVE Promise Club celebrated Say Something Week with a series of activities from March 4-8.

Say Something Week aims to teach the warning signs of when someone might be struggling or need help and encourages people to be upstanders instead of bystanders. The club organized different activities and spirit days to raise awareness.

“Say Something Week is hosted by SAVE Promise to teach people the signs of someone in danger of harming themselves or others and being an upstander by telling a trusted adult,” SAVE Promise Club Advisor Ms. Healy said. “Our club is participating in this week in a few different ways with all the activities we’ve been hosting this week.”

Healy and the officers put in weeks of work to organize Say Something Week. They advertised on The Morning Briefing every day and posted information about it on their social media accounts.

“For Say Something Week, the other officers and I helped develop the week’s activities,” senior Officer Natalia Gagliardi said. “We try to come up with fun activities to invoke learning about how to speak up and take care of yourself.”

Each day this week was either a spirit day or an engaging activity to capture people’s attention and spread awareness.

“For Say Something Week, we planned activities every day with the purpose of spreading awareness,” senior Co-President Maya Markowitz said. “Some of the days that we had this week were Self-care Monday, where students wore pajamas to kick off the week, and Trusted Adult/Therapy Dog Thursday, where we handed out ‘trusted adult certificates’ and had Therapy Dog Winston visit our school.”

The steps of the Say Something program are recognizing the warning signs, saying something to a trusted adult, and building up a community of upstanders to look out for each other. PJ Day encouraged comfort in the Law community and Trusted Adult Thursday made students aware of the authoritative figures in the building they could talk to if they ever needed it.

“Staff and students were encouraged to wear their PJs because self-care should be comfortable,” Healy said. “On Tuesday we had a friendship bracelet station in the TLC to encourage people to get together and talk to each other.”

Members of the club appreciate Say Something Week because it makes students feel more comfortable and welcomed by the community around them.

“Say Something Week to me is really important because it allows students to realize and understand that there is a whole community of people and trusted adults that are ready and available to listen to you,” sophomore Harshitha Kothapalli said. “It teaches skills to students and faculty about being able to speak up in a judgment-free zone. This week brings up so much awareness to such a sensitive topic, so it’s really important that it’s talked about.”

NEWS: Sophomore Class Dances Night Away At Annual Ring Banquet

(Photo courtesy Emma Johnson)

By Fiorella Gargiulo – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Class of 2026 held its Sophomore Ring Banquet at Race Brook Country Club on March 1.

The Ring Banquet was held from 6-9 p.m. and was catered by the country club. A total of 95 students and additional guests attended the event. 

“A class ring is something you will have for the rest of your life,” Law Principal Bryan Darcy said. “It is something that you can look at as you get older and remember your times in high school with the students you experienced those events with.”

The Class of 2026 Student Council – President Layla Alogna, Vice President Aryan Sikinham, Treasurer Ben White, Secretary Nadia Nuzzo, and Senators Harshitha Kothapalli and Yeiden Nieves – had many council meetings and smaller fundraisers to make sure the Sophomore Ring Banquet was a hit.  

“The Student Council had to make sure everything was booked and that word got out to the sophomores about the dance and all of the details,” Alogna said. “What is most important is the Student Council’s passion and motivation to get the dance going.”

Having a Sophomore Ring Banquet allows the class to fundraise for future events, like the Junior Cotillion and Senior Prom. It is also en event for sophomores to look forward to in the spring.  

“Ring is one of the biggest fundraisers of the year for sophomores because many people go to it, so it was a big deal to make sure that we fundraise as much as we could,” Sikinham said. 

Besides the work behind the banquet, the three hours were filled with dancing, eating, and taking many pictures with friends. Law Spanish teacher Mr. Rodriguez was the DJ for the night and helped the students unwind.  

“Throughout the duration of the event, the dance floor was always full,” Kothapalli said. “The food and venue upheld a certain level of excellence while also being able to cater to high schoolers.”

Some teachers and faculty from Law also attended the event. Many were there not only to chaperone but also to support their students.

“I really enjoyed chaperoning the beginning of the dance,” Health and Safety teacher Mr. Maurutis said. “It was great to see my students outside of our normal school day, dressing up, dancing, and having a great time.”

NEWS: Jonathan Law Students Participate In “Read Across Mathewson Day”

(Photo courtesy @JlHSAthletics)

By Sophie Kalagher – Staff Reporter

A group of Jonathan Law student-athletes took a trip to Mathewson Elementary on March 1 where they helped with the school’s Read Across America Day celebration. 

Thirty-five Law athletes, along with a group of students from Foran High School, spent their morning reading to young learners in different grades. They got to travel around the school to different classrooms and build connections with young readers. 

“The Law student athletes who went did an amazing job interacting with the students, engaging in reciprocal conversations, and motivating the young learners to do their best in school,” Special Education teacher Mrs. Drew said.

The event was organized with Mrs. Jaggers, a first grade teacher at Mathewson. The goal was to give the young students role models and people to look up to. 

“I remember when I was in elementary I was so excited for the ‘big kids to come and read to me,” said freshman Nikhil Misra, a former Mathewson student. “It felt nice to be able to give them the same feeling.” 

Many of the Law students in attendance were Mathewson graduates. On the trip, they were also able to connect with their old teachers and feel like an elementary student again. 

“Revisiting all the teachers, it was awesome seeing all of their reactions and sharing past memories,” said freshman Anthony Scappatura, a Mathewson graduate.

Everyone enjoyed themselves – both students and teachers. It was an experience that the Law and Mathewson students won’t forget. 

“You could tell everyone enjoyed it and it was special for the teachers to see their old students,” junior Chloe Konereski said.

In the future, Drew is hoping to keep this event an annual trip and potentially take more students. Many students plan on attending again because of how successful the trip was this year. 

“I would like to attend next year and see more students and teachers,” freshman Madi Black said. 

NEWS: Jonathan Law Key Club Prepares For Annual DECON Conference

(Photo courtesy Law Key Club)

By Addy Barber and Julia Ryan – Staff Reporters

The Jonathan Law Key Club is hard at work preparing for this years District Conference (DECON) where they hope to win multiple awards to match their winning record from last year’s convention.

The officers of Key Club used what they learned at last year’s convention workshops to lead the club through another successful service year.

“Last year we took home a lot of awards as a club, including 1st place in the Non-Digital Poster, Annual Achievement, and Monthly Reports, and 3rd place in Traditional Scrapbook and the Oratory Contest,” senior Key Club President Maya Markowitz said. “We have been working hard again this year so I am hoping to bring home even more.”

To ensure all of these contests are done before convention, the club has divided into committees during their weekly meetings.

“The club has been constantly preparing for DECON by working on committee projects such as scrapbook, oratory, and digital/non digital posters,” sophomore Bulletin Editor Harshitha Kothapalli said.

Club members are excited to attend the convention and to see how well the club places in each contest. 

“I’m looking forward to DECON because it’s a really good opportunity to get involved with other Key Club members from other schools and also a chance to have fun with club members from Law,” sophomore Kayla Markowitz said.

Key Club Advisor Mr. Boynton has attended DECON many times and loves seeing what other clubs are up to.

“I love opening ceremonies and seeing all the great things the Key Clubbers in New England have accomplished throughout the year,” Boynton said.

The club is looking forward to showcasing all of the hard work and service to their community they’ve done throughout the year.

“Every week in meetings we continue working on our year-long service projects,” Maya Markowitz said. “Members are constantly volunteering and gaining more experience in preparation for the conference.”

This year’s board of officers not only includes traditional club officer positions but also has the 2023-2024 Lieutenant Governor. The club’s Bulletin Editor will be taking on this position next year and is excited to meet the rest of the 2024-2025 District Board at DECON.

“Something I’m looking forward to the most is being sworn in and trained to be the new Lieutenant Governor of Division 20,” Kothapalli said. “It’s a chance for me to meet the rest of the new LTGs and to build the future of our division.”

NEWS: Law’s BSU Holds Series Of Events To Celebrate Black History Month

(Photo courtesy @jalwadvocate)

By Kayla Markowitz and Harshitha Kothapalli – News Editors 

Jonathan Law’s Black Student Union recently hosted a series of events to highlight Black History Month.

In February, the BSU held a student panel at a faculty professional development session to share Black experiences, a book talk on The Morning Briefing to promote black authors, and an Advisory activity that taught students about Black culture. 

“The BSU made these activities for Black History Month in order to educate the school on Black history that’s mostly unknown in our school,” senior Ikeoluwatomiwa Opayemi said. 

The club put together a panel of students to share out different experiences in hopes that they could work with staff members and have an honest conversation about diversity.

“I think it’s important for schools to participate in these activities because it gives them a chance to educate themselves and see how life is for people different than them, and can also give them a chance to self-reflect on moments where they may have said or done something offensive and ignorant,” senior Sarah Ahmed said. 

Faculty attending the student panel learned insightful ways to make sure they make every student at Law feel welcomed and accepted.

“I learned that students always prefer that they feel like they are heard and that racism in the classroom gets addressed,” English teacher Ms. Kelly said. “Additionally, I learned that being an adult does not mean you know everything, and all of our gaps about Black culture is our own issue, and I need to educate myself accordingly.”

Other than the panel, the club also came up with other fun activities for students to participate in throughout the month. 

Specifically with our advisory activity, students are able to ask each other questions and come together in order to ultimately win the prize,” Co-President of BSU Senior Gemard Geury said. “I believe our activities serve as a fun way to just learn more and can even contribute to an advisory community.”

The BSU allows Law to recognize Black culture and creates an accepting community that empowers and encourages students to celebrate their backgrounds.

“It’s important for schools to participate in BHM activities because it’s important to Black stories to be visible, especially where they can be silenced,” Opayemi said.

 

NEWS: Friends Forever Club Builds Long-Lasting Bonds Between Students At Law

(Photo courtesy Mrs. Michaels)

By Taylor Batterton – Staff Reporter

The Friends Forever Club meets once a month to make crafts, play games, and connect students throughout Jonathan Law.

The next meeting will be on March 12 from 2-3:15 p.m.. The meeting will have a Saint Patrick’s Day-themed craft, an activity, and a snack.

The Friends Forever Club stems from an international mission known as Best Buddies. Best Buddies consists of student peers and volunteers that create opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

My favorite part is being able to help create bonds and achieve goals with different people, whether we are making crafts or playing games,” junior club member Tucker Donegan said.  

Friends Forever used to be held combined with Foran High School and meetings used to be at Foran. Now Jonathan Law has their own club that began in September and meets once a month.  

The club is especially excited for its upcoming meeting because the February meeting was canceled due to snow.

“For the February meeting we were teaming up with the Natural Helpers Club,” Friends Forever Co-Advisor Mrs. Blude said. “It was going to be a Valentine’s Day activity, cookie decorating, and a scavenger hunt, but due to the snow, the meeting was canceled.”

The club usually makes a themed art project, participates in an activity, and has a snack. 

“The last meeting, in January, we had cupcakes and did painting on canvases,” Friends Forever Co-Advisor Mrs. Michaels said. “The craft that we did was a picture frame, they try to do different things.”

Friends Forever is always looking for new members.

I enjoy and recommend the program because it’s a fun experience and I leave feeling like I did something to help my school community,” Donegan said. “It is something that benefits everyone involved and is a great way to be involved with the Law community.”

The Friends Forever club also participates in Unified Sports which began in February. Practices are at Jonathan Law right after school. The club participates in basketball, wiffle ball, track, and soccer tournaments with neighboring towns. 

Friends Forever also has an egg hunt and cornhole tournament at Bunnell High School planned for after school on March 27. 

There is also a Unified Prom scheduled for  May. 

“The Unified Prom is usually held at Foran, but it is at Jonathan Law this year,” Blude said. “We need as many peer helpers as possible to come and volunteer, but it’s a great night there’s dancing and we all have so much fun.”

5 QUESTIONS WITH…Law Sophomore Madison Krauss About The Hamden Girls Hockey Co-Op Season

(Photo courtesy Madison Krauss)

By Emma Johnson and Alexis Kirby – Staff Reporters

Law sophomore Madison Krauss is a member of the Hamden High Co-Op girls hockey team. Advocate Staff Reporters Emma Johnson and Alexis Kirby interviewed Krauss about the team’s winter season. 

Emma Johnson: How did the season go for the team?

Madison Krauss: The season went very well. We made it pretty far in both SCCs and states. 

EJ: What did winning the SCC Tournament mean to you? 

MK: It was good because we beat the team that we lost to in SCC’s last year in overtime. It was very exciting getting to make it that far with my team.

AK: What were your team’s biggest accomplishments this season?

MK: We won SCC’s and also made it to states after not making it the past five years. One of our seniors, Trinity Sweeney, won SCC player of the year and went All-State. 

EJ: How does being a co-op affect your team?

MK: Being a co-op makes it better. It’s a bunch of different schools so there are more of a variety of new people to be close to, which I feel makes us get along better. 

AK: How do you think the team improved the most from last year to this year?

MK: There was a lot more improvement this year because there were only 10 skaters for varsity. It pushes us to get better and work together easier because there is fewer of us. 

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Stofko Helps Students, School Counseling Staff Stay Organized

(Photo by Zack Sulkis)

By Zack Sulkis – Social Media Editor-In-Chief

In the Jonathan Law school counseling wing, Ms. Stofko works daily to keep students and staff organized.

As an Administrative Assistant for the school counseling department, Stofko’s work changes virtually every month because her position is so vast.

“The best part of the job is that the tasks change each month – it’s never boring,” Stofko. said “One month, I’m sending college materials, another collecting AP payments,  or preparing materials for an evening event, and celebrating with students when they receive college acceptances.”

Stofko supports Law’s five school counselors and also works regularly with College & Career Coordinator Ms. Sylvia and Administrative Assistant Ms. Fameli.

“I support five counselors and I also work closely with Ms. Sylvia and Ms. Fameli,” Stofko said. “Together we keep the department working smoothly and provide a welcoming atmosphere.”

Stofko has been in her current role for nine years and been at Law for four of those years.

“My day starts at 7:00 a.m. greeting students and visitors to the counseling department and answering phone calls,” Stofko said. “I process transcript requests, incoming phone calls and emails, ordering supplies for the department, mailing correspondents, just to name a few. Every day is different.”

Stofko loves helping the Law community and the loves the people she works with.

“My thing about working at Law is coworkers and the Lawmazing staff,” Stofko said. “I enjoy working with the students and seeing their growth over the four years here at Law.”

SPORTS: Law Boys Basketball Team Finishes Season, Says Farewell To Nine Seniors

(Photo courtesy Law Boys Basketball)

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief

The Jonathan Law boys basketball team recently wrapped up their winter season.

The team was led by three captains: Tanner Matchett, Cam Upchurch and Liam Valvo. While two of the captains are seniors, Upchurch, a junior, is excited to return to the court for one more season with the Lawmen. 

“There isn’t anything I wish I could have done differently this season,” Upchurch said. “Although we didn’t have the outcome we wanted and the success we wanted, I don’t look back and regret the decisions in the past because I live a no regrets lifestyle.”

Upchurch has been a starter for all three seasons and was a key part to the team this year. The Lawmen featured a lot of new faces on the court this season as they had to replace eight seniors from last year’s team.

“Adjusting was hard because we lost our main scorers and big men so we had to have a whole new plan of going about things and that was to use our speed to our advantage,” senior Derek Rainey said. “I feel like at first we did not adjust to using our speed well but after a couple games have  gone by we started to get the hang of it and adjusted much better.”

Law, who finished the year 4-16, is now looking forward to growing their program and hoping that the underclassmen will be able to step in and fill these roles as kids continue to graduate the team. 

“Losing talent is difficult every year,” head coach Jamie Anderson said. “This year we are losing nine seniors as well.” 

Along with Rainey, Matchett, and Valvo, the team will be losing seniors Amedues Betancourt, Bobby Black, Chris DeProfio, Michael Nieder, Patrick Paules-Harrold and Derek Wilder. 

“I’m going to miss the culture of the team, and mostly the relationships I built with my teammates and my coaches,” Valvo said.

Valvo, who injured his shoulder in the beginning of the season during a scrimmage, was unable to play in most games this year. Despite not being fully healed Valvo saw a few minutes on senior night when the team defeated Career Magnet 62-49. 

“The juniors, sophomores and freshmen have a lot of talent and are ready to work,” Rainey said. “They are good listeners and playmakers and will be fun to watch.” 

The program had a lot of underclassmen come out for the team this year and are excited for them to grow. 

“An underclassman that stepped up was Matt Witteman, a few games into the season he was brought up to varsity and eventually started which helped contribute a lot to the squad,” Upchurch said.

Witteman was excited to help out the team when he got told to sit on the varsity bench and then got told he would soon be starting for the team. 

“Our underclassmen made some really good strides this year,” Anderson said. “We knew there were going to be some mistakes and growing pains but they learned a lot and got very valuable experience.” 

The team is excited to work together in the offseason, as the CIAC has now allowed for teams to practice together for up to four hours a week once the final spring championship games have concluded. 

“I’m going to miss the culture of law basketball for sure, it feels like a family – from the coaches, to teammates, to the supporters,” Matchett said. “It was competitive and fun at the same time and definitely has been the highlight of my high school experience.” 

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Law’s Nursing Staff Helps Students Stay Healthy, Safe

(Photo courtesy @jlawadvocate)

By Tim Firla – Entertainment Editor

The staff in the nurse’s office at Jonathan Law is always working hard to keep students healthy, clean, and safe. 

Most Law students have gone to the nurse at least once during the school day and seen one of Law’s two school nurses – Mrs. Luth and Mrs. Lane.

Luth has worked as a nurse for 20 years and has been at Law for the past three years. Lane, who has been a nurse for over 25 years, recently joined the Law staff. 

My initial college journey was in elementary education,” Lane said. “I switched gears to nursing in my second year as I really enjoyed the sciences and had a passion for serving the community as a whole. Early in my career I was a substitute school nurse in an elementary and a middle school; school based clinic. I worked in a large health care system for over 25 years.”

Lane said she is especially excited to join the nursing staff at Law because she is a Law graduate herself.

“I graduated from Jonathan Law,” Lane said. “I feel like I hit a home run. The staff have been a great support and students have been very welcoming.”

Law Principal Mr. Darcy said that the COVID-19 pandemic showed just how important and valuable school nurses are to everyone.

“The importance of nursing staff was highlighted when we experienced COVID and has continued to grow over the past few years,” Darcy said. “They provide daily support to students and staff which adds to the safety and well being of all.”

5 QUESTIONS WITH…Sophomore Kenzie Forsythe About The Law Cheer Team

(Photo courtesy Law Gymnastics)

By Alexis Kirby and Emma Johnson – Staff Reporters

Sophomore Kenzie Forsythe is a member of the Law cheer team. Advocate Staff Reporters Alexis Kirby and Emma Johnson interviewed Forsythe about the team’s comp season.

Alexis Kirby: How is comp season going for the cheer team?

Kenzie Forsythe: Comp season has gone great. We build off of each other on the mat and off. We still have so much room for growth and I think this group will excel well throughout the time we have with our new head coach Morgan Colombo and assistant coach Erica Gray. 

Emma Johnson How has being a co-ed team played a part in the team’s performance?

KF: Being co-ed has allowed for a very different learning technique and environment. The routines you see us doing compared to the all-girl division can be interesting as we are performing and showcasing the fact that we are co-ed.

AK: What is your biggest accomplishment from this season?

KF: My personal biggest accomplishment was reaching my goal of going All-SCC. As a team, our biggest goal was getting back to competing and bringing back the idea of competitive cheer to Law.

EJ: Can you describe the team dynamics and how you all work together?

KF: The team dynamic has only gotten stronger. Every practice and competition gets us even closer as it is long hours of working as a team and creating memories throughout the craziness that cheerleading brings.

AK: How do you balance schoolwork and cheerleading commitments?

KF: With school work and cheerleading sometimes it can be difficult since our practices are later than most and I am typically very tired after not only school and practice. If you make a schedule for yourself and hold yourself accountable to get the work done, it makes it easier. Finishing my work in school has been what gets me through the season.

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Sylvia Helps Law Students Prepare For Life After High School

(Photo by Gemard Guery)

By Gemard Guery – Editor-In-Chief and Editorial Editor

In the College and Career Center, Ms. Sylvia has been working hard for the past seven years in order to support students in post-secondary planning and in building their resumes. 

As College and Career Specialist, Sylvia assists the school counseling department in whatever they need to in order to assist students of all grade levels.

“As a freshman, it may be community service. As a sophomore, it could be building a resume and getting involved,” Sylvia said. “I obviously work most with juniors and seniors as they begin college and career exploration. I help with scholarship and college applications to ensure they’re the best they can be.”

For upperclassmen, Sylvia serves as a helping hand in all of their post-secondary needs and questions. She often researches and finds additional resources to aid in preparation for after high school. She also conducts mock interviews and reads over applications to ensure they’re the best they can be.

Students speak highly of Sylvia as she’s helped them immensely and has constantly gone above and beyond.

“Ms. Sylvia has helped me with literally everything I’ve ever had a question about,” senior Ashley Borecki said. “If she hasn’t known everything on the spot, she’s always taken time out of her day to research it for me. Everything she’s done for me, she’s always been super enthusiastic about it and never made me feel like I was bothering her.”

In addition to student support, Sylvia, along with History teacher Ms. Burns, coordinates the Internship Program which allows seniors to build their resumes by gaining experience in fields they’re interested in. She also aids in AP test planning and coordinates with the Board of Education Student Liaisons in order to help them create their monthly school reports. 

“Ms. Sylvia is an integral part of our building,” Law Principal Mr. Darcy said. “Ms. Sylvia is a person who ‘jumps in’ and helps whenever anything is needed to assist students and staff.” s

Sylvia has done so much for the students and staff at Law and is such a valuable part of the school community.

“I am a product of the Milford Public Schools myself and love giving back to the community that’s poured so much into me,” Sylvia said. “I love the staff, faculty and the community we’ve created here at Jonathan Law.”

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: School Psychologist, Social Workers Offer Support For All Law Students

(Photo by Harshitha Kothapalli)

By Harshitha Kothapalli – News Editor 

Ms. Mello, Law’s School Psychologist and Ms. Meyer-Farrell, Law’s full-time Social Worker work together behind the scenes to help make Law what it is today. 

Meyer-Ferrell, along with Ms. Bernardo, Law’s part-time Social Worker, talk to students to help them encounter different issues. Mello meets with students for counseling and evaluations. 

“I talk to students for a variety of reasons including stress, depression, anxiety, social skills, executive functioning, grief, and other troubles that happen to them during their teenage years,” Meyer-Farrell said. “Together we work together to come up with ways to help ease their feelings.”

These support staff members love their job but more importantly love the people they work with. 

“I really enjoy the conversations I have with high school students,” Mello said. “It is a lot of fun to watch them grow personally and in their academics.”

Principal Mr. Darcy works with Mello and Ms. Meyer-Farrell and could not be happier with the work they have done at Law.

“Ms. Meyer-Farrell is simply the best Social Worker I’ve ever worked with,” Mr. Darcy said. “Ms. Mello is a wonderful person and School Psychologist.”

Darcy truly believes that both staff members are the stars behind the scenes. 

“Ms. Meyer-Farrell also works so well with every staff member in our building and is just an incredible person to be around,” Darcy said. “Ms. Mello meets with students individually to ensure they are supported, communicates with parents/guardians, and runs reports that are very important for staff.”

NEWS: Law Alum Tighe Turns Class Of 2014 Senior Video Into TikTok Sensation  

(Photo courtesy TikTok – @matthebat)

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief

The Jonathan Law Class of 2014 Senior Video is suddenly a viral sensation on TikTok – 10 years later – thanks to alum Matt Tighe, also known as MattTheBat.

Over the past few weeks, Tighe has posted clips of the “Where Will You Be In 10 Years?” segment of the Senior Video on TikTok. Those clips have amassed tens of millions of views on the social media platform.

“A while back I saw that someone was posting the ‘10 Year’ videos from other grades, and thought it was really well done and cool,” Tighe said. 

TikTok users then began asking for updates on the Class of 2014 graduates, so Tighe reached out to his fellow alumni and has since posted updates from over a dozen students and teachers from the video. These updates – and Tighe’s commentary that accompanies each submission – have already generated over 11 million views.

Class of 2014 alum Casey Bostic recently sent in her update video. Bostic said in her Senior Video segment that in 10 years, she would be living on a farm in Wisconsin with five children. In her update, Bostic revealed that she did in fact move to Wisconsin, does not have five children, but recently got engaged. 

“I’m not exactly where I thought I would be when I was 18,” Bostic joked in her video response. “But in this economy, that’s probably a good thing.”

Class of 2014 alum Hazal Kayalioglu also recently sent in an update video. In her Senior Video response, she said she saw herself as a veterinarian in 10 years. But after a college professor bluntly told her that she was not picking up the concepts of her course quickly enough to be a veterinarian, she switched paths and began a career she loves in the public health field.

She currently lives in New York with her fiancee, dog, and two cats.

“It makes me so happy to see where everybody is and what everyone is doing,” Kayalioglu said. “If we have a 10 year reunion, I am so there. I would love to see everyone again.”

In his own answer to the “Where Will You Be In 10 Years?” question, Tighe said in 2014 that he hoped to be a millionaire and a talk show host – and so far, he is halfway there.

“I started posting to YouTube in 2008 and have been making content ever since,” Tighe said. “Though my content has changed a lot over the years, I’ve consistently experimented with the type of things I post.”

Tighe also has a YouTube channel called “MattTheBat” where he creates various content. The channel is a mix of commentary, travel vlog clips, and his animated talk show. 

“I like to call my content ‘creative complaining’ where I’ll go on rants about various things in my life,” Tighe said. “I often cover pop culture and tell stories about my life. Many of which, about my childhood in Connecticut.”

Tighe currently has a full-time job in marketing, and since leaving Law, he has worked as a producer for Nickelodeon and as a freelance writer. He has had several music and entertainment articles published in Rolling Stone magazine.

His TikTok account, meanwhile, has become as popular as ever over the past few weeks due to his latest Senior Video posts. He has recently added updates from members of the Law Class of 2013 Senior Video as well.

English teacher Mr. Kulenych, who had Tighe in his Journalism and Broadcast Journalism classes, said he is extremely proud of his former student.

“Matt is so talented and has done so many creative, entertaining projects in his life post-Law – and this is just the latest,” Kulenych said. “The Class of 2014 was a special group and it’s been awesome seeing where life has taken the members of that class. It’s been a fun ‘family reunion’ on TikTok over the past few weeks and I can’t wait to see more updates in the future.”

History teacher Mr. Young, who recently left Law to become a history teacher and the head girls basketball coach at Masuk High School in Monroe, said he loves being able to reconnect with his former students through this TikTok series. 

“It’s been so awesome to see the Class of 2014 reconnect,” Young said. “They will always be a special group, my first AP Psychology class. It was so much fun as a teacher to work with them and be part of the Law community. I was a second year teacher and they really inspired me and to take advantage of each day.”

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Kitchen Staff Provides Breakfast, Lunch, Smiles To All Law Students

(Photo courtesy Maya Markowitz)

By Maya Markowitz – Social Media Editor

Most students share one favorite location at Jonathan Law High School – the cafeteria. 

The Jonathan Law cafeteria consists of over a dozen hard-working staff members. They serve breakfast in the morning, and rotate hot lunch, pizza, and sandwiches for lunch everyday. 

The staff works from 6 a.m. through 2 p.m., always preparing for the next meal. Sometimes, they even come after hours to prep for the following day’s meals.

“The food services staff cooks, prepares and provides food for students and staff alike but more importantly, they also build positive relationships with our students during their interactions with them on a daily basis,” Law Principal Mr. Darcy. “The bonds they form last throughout a student’s time here at Law and they even attend graduation for students each year.” 

The amount of work that goes into serving breakfast and lunch for students is often overlooked. The kitchen is busy during the entire school day to ensure that the day moves smoothly. 

Kitchen Manager Cary Sue Attardo makes sure that each meal is both healthy and tasty for students and staff. 

“As Kitchen Manager, the biggest responsibility for me is making sure all of our staff prepares and cooks food safely and to serve our food with love,” Attardo said.  

Many people at Jonathan Law have built relationships with the kitchen staff, as they look forward to seeing them several times a day.

“I look forward to getting breakfast everyday and seeing Barb,” junior Lila Hoxie said. “It really brightens my morning.”

One of the kitchen’s staff members, Debra Perez, has worked at Law since 2022. She said she looks forward to seeing students every day in the cafeteria.  

“I love working here and I would say that my favorite part of working here at Jonathan Law is seeing the kids everyday,” Perez. “All the students are so polite to us.”

Students said that Law could not function the same without the hard work that goes into feeding the school everyday. 

“My favorite lunch is the sandwich bar, but getting to see the cafeteria people everyday is an added benefit,”  junior Hannah Engel said.

SPORTS: Senior Rainey Leads Law Basketball Team Down Final Stretch Of Season

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Ryan Nobles and Logan Mullarkey – Staff Reporters

Senior Derek Rainey is leading the Law boys basketball team down the stretch of the winter season.

Rainey has helped the team in many ways this year being a great scorer, knocking down shots, and not being afraid of the competition. He strives to play with heart and passion on the court and is always determined to do what it takes to come out with a victory.

“Derek’s energy is unmatched by anyone on the team,” senior captain Tanner Matchett said. “He is always giving 100% effort on and off the floor and always tries to push everyone around him to be the best they can.”

Rainey always pushes people to be better and always wants to compete. His mentality helps make him a strong player and leader to his entire team, as well as a role model for younger players.

“Although Derek has missed some time, battling illnesses and injuries, his work ethic has never faltered,” Assistant Coach Mr. McPartland said. “He works tirelessly on the court and has a ton of responsibility as one of our guards, which he has handled in stride.”

Rainey has persevered through illness and a concussion this season, but he stayed determined and put his best efforts forward to help his team achieve the goal of winning.

“Derek is known for his sharpshooting skills and relentless work ethic,” junior Dalton Evans said. “He is one of the go-to scorers when it comes down to the wire in crucial moments. He pushes his teammates to excel and tries to make them better.”

Both players and coaches said they feel comfortable with Rainey taking shots in crucial situations and he isn’t scared of the pressure that comes along with those shots.

“Derek is one of the best competitors on our team,” junior guard Ivan Gallicano said. “He plays a big role in our team and is a role model for younger players to look up to.”

Rainey said his goal this season was to be a leader on and off the court.

“I love being able to be a leader on and off the court, setting good examples for the younger classes and teaching them more advanced plays,” Rainey said. “I enjoy learning and gaining more knowledge about more ways to score and set up teammates to score during games.”

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Custodial Staff Keeps Jonathan Law Clean, Safe For Everyone

(Photo courtesy @jlawadvocate)

By Kayla Markowitz – News Editor

Jonathan Law’s custodial staff works day and night to ensure that the halls and classrooms are always clean and tidy. 

Head Custodian Christopher Burton oversees the day crew which includes Tony Chappotin, Walt Kubek, and Chris Olenick, and the night crew which includes Rich Branaccio, Jeremy Goiran, Mike Henthorn, Mike Radcliffe, Pat Rua, Tim Soto, and Mark Thibault

“The custodians do so much before, during and after school that often is overlooked by the community,” Law Principal Mr. Darcy said. “They help with sub coverages, set up for special events like clubs and athletics, and assist staff/students throughout the day with several other duties.”

The staff has many day-to-day responsibilities that they carry out to ensure Law is clean and safe for students and staff. 

“Every day first thing in the morning we turn on all the lights, check all of the classrooms, check parking lots for any damage and overall just make sure there are no problems,” Burton said. “We keep ahead of spills, clean between lunch waves, and basically do everything we can to keep the building running smoothly and keep Jonathan Law healthy.”

Custodians at Law are always behind the scenes ensuring safety and cleanliness around the building. Everything that is needed to keep events and sports going is done by the custodians ahead of time to make sure everything is ready. 

“The custodians at law do just about everything we do not see,” math teacher Mr. Ruzbarsky said.  “They are here countless hours making sure our building is clean and helping setup all the athletic events before anyone is here to see who does it.”

The teachers and custodial staff work together to communicate timing and what needs to be done. 

“I like working at Jonathan Law because of the students and staff,” Burton said. “The staff always communicates what they need and gives us enough time in advance to schedule everything which is helpful.” 

ENTERTAINMENT: Kanye West’s, Ty Dolla $ign’s “Vultures 1” Already In Contention For Album Of The Year

(Photo courtesy soundcloud.com)

By Zack Sulkis – Social Media Editor-In-Chief

Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign dropped their long awaited collaboration album “Vultures 1” by surprise on February 9. This is the first of three editions the duo is going to release and if Volumes 2 and 3 end up sounding anything like Volume 1, they are going to have three instant classics on their hands.

“Vultures 1” demonstrates a sound that’s both experimental yet very signature to Kanye West. The album has some striking similarities to some of Ye’s past work like “Yeezus” and “Life of Pablo.”

“Vultures 1” feels like a much needed return for Kanye West, leaving the clean era of albums like “Jesus is King” and “Donda” behind and going back to his gritty ways with hard hitting beats and iconic features.

The best example of this is on the song “CARNIVAL.” “CARNIVAL” is a song by the duo that additionally features Playboi Carti and Rich the Kid and is truly a masterpiece. “CARNIVAL” is a fast-paced, hard-hitting song that shares similarities to Travis Scott’s “FE!N” which was released last year which also featured Playboi Carti. The song has a chanting chorus with multiple fast verses that give off the vibe of some of Kanye’s earlier work on albums like “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” where so many artists are featured that every rapper has one verse and they switch from one person to another, dropping iconic lines one after another. 

Other notable songs include “BURN,” “PAPERWORK,” “PAID,” “VULTURES,” “BACK TO ME,” and “KING.” All the songs feature very unique sampling, most notably with “BACK TO ME” having audio samples from the 90s comedy Dogma which make up the majority of the chorus. 

Kanye West is a very controversial rapper who is always making headlines for many different reasons. His wild persona and unhinged behavior had many outlets writing off the album before it even released but that didn’t seem to phase Kanye. 

In the song “KING,” Kanye raps, “Still the king, still the/They thought headlines was my kryptonite/Still the king, still the king.” 

Although Ty Dolla $ign is one of two in the duo, it’s obvious the whole center of attention on this album is being given to Kanye, for better or for worse.

At the end of the day, love him or hate him, it’s impossible to stop Kanye from doing what he loves and making iconic art. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Data Processor Mrs. Hofferman Keeps Students, Staff On Schedule

(Photo by Bobby Black)

By Bobby Black – Sports Editor

Mrs. Hofferman is the Data Processor at Jonathan Law High School, maintaining PowerSchool as well as setting up schedules, running progress reports, report cards, and the honor roll.  

She sets up new PowerSchool accounts for new students and their parents, sets up locker assignments, and works with the counselors to change students’ schedules. 

Together with (Assistant Principal) Mrs. Farotti, we build the master schedule for the next year which includes not only instructional classes, but study halls, Advisory, CERTOs, senior privilege, and Independent Studies,” Hofferman said.

Hofferman loves the community at Law as it is one of her favorite things about her job. 

“Hands-down, it’s the people – staff and students,” Hofferman said. “Law has such an amazingly warm and welcoming environment. They’re not kidding when they say we are a ‘Law Family.’ Everyone is so supportive and caring.”

Hofferman is a data expert and always available to help anyone  in the building. 

“Mrs. Hofferman does a lot for our building,” Principal Mr. Darcy said. “She analyzes data, helps run the schedule for the building, and creates special schedules when we have events running in the building. She is a data expert. I go to her weekly to gain valuable data that assists with making changes on how we can support our students better. On top of all that, she is just a great person who always jumps in to help everyone around her. “

Hofferman has been a part of the Law community for 10 years. Before coming to Law, she was a school secretary at Calf Pen Elementary School. Prior to working for Milford Public Schools, she was the Training Manager for a computer training and consulting company in Shelton.

Hofferman’s colleagues are amazed at how she handles so many daily tasks.

“Mrs. Hofferman is one of the most indispensable people at Law,” English teacher Mr. Kulenych said. “She has so many responsibilities but she does all of them so well and so efficiently – and she always, always has a smile on her face no matter how busy she is. She’s the best.”

SPORTS: Mattchett, Simpson Named Law’s January Athletes Of The Month

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief 

Seniors Tanner Matchett and Caden Simpson were named January’s Student-Athletes of the Month. 

Matchett and Simpson are both captains of their winter sports teams – basketball and indoor track, respectively.

“I believe to become Athlete of the Month requires leadership, hard work, and determination,” Simpson said. “I believe I was nominated for Athlete of the Month because I have been working hard all season and the training I’ve had in practice has been paying off.”

Simpson, who was also a captain of the volleyball team this past fall, is a captain of the girls indoor track team and a member of the girls outdoor track & field team. 

“One of my role models in sports would be (American track and field star) Katie Moon, because I think she demonstrates morals that every athlete should follow,” Simpson said.

Simpson plans to attend Monmouth University in the fall where she will be a member of the cross country and track team. She said she is proud to be January’s Athlete of the Month.

“I am grateful to be recognized as Athlete of the Month because it gives me more motivation to do better in my sport, and I’m just happy to be recognized and be appreciated,” Simpson said. 

Simpson, who recently re-broke her school record in the 55 meter hurdles, has also qualified for the Nike Indoor Nationals. 

Matchett, who was also a captain of the boys cross country team this past fall, is a captain of the boys basketball team. 

“Pretty simply put, Tanner is one of the most selfless athletes we have here at Jonathan Law and is constantly putting his teammates before himself,” Assistant Coach Mr. McPartland said. “He has had a stretch of a few games where he has put some points on the board for us as a team and he stays on top of his work in the classroom.”

Matchett said he’s honored to be recognized as there are so many talented winter athletes. 

“Some qualities that fit an Athlete of the Month are being dedicated to doing what you love, and setting a good example for others,” Matchett said.

Matchett’s older brother plays college basketball and said that as a younger brother he always looked up to him. He plans on playing club sports in college next year.

“In the future I plan on trying to play sports but for a club team at whatever university I attend,” Matchett said. “I love sports so much it would be hard to stay away from it.” 

SPORTS: Law Gymnastics Team Finishes Second At SCCs, Look Forward To States

(Photo courtesy Law Gymnastics)

By Avery Moulton – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law gymnastics team recently completed another successful winter routine.

The team finished second in the SCC Championships and qualified for the upcoming State Tournament. At SCCs, senior captain Natalie Morrell was named Most Outstanding Gymnast and senior Claire Moulton and sophomore Anna Uruchida made the All-SCC Team.

The gymnastics captains this year were seniors Moulton, Natalie Morrell, Angie Robinson, and Bailey Seaberg. Pat Simon is the head coach.

Along with the team’s success, Morrell also had a memorable final season, scoring her 1,000th career point in a meet against Daniel Hand.

“I am very excited about reaching 1,000 points as the accomplishment marks all of the work that’s been put in over the past four years while also marking my improvement and how far I’ve come while being part of this team,“ Morrell said.

To prepare for the SCC meet, the team worked through routines so that they would be at their best.

The gymnastics team always encourages each other on and off the mats. Meeting new faces and saying goodbye to old ones, the team makes sure they connect well and include one another. 

“I think everyone is closer with each other than we were at the beginning of the season,” sophomore Charlotte Baldieri said. “Seeing the team everyday has definitely let us learn more about each other.”

Spending time together outside of meets and practices has helped the team grow closer.

“We have mental health practices where we play games together,” junior Paige Kantor said. “When we get the chance our team has pasta parties where we play games, eat, and talk to each other and that really brings us closer together as a team.”

In order to do well, the girls need to have a positive attitude towards each other, practice, and meet.

“The easiest way to stay in the right mindset is to focus on the positive and not comparing myself to others,” freshman Samatha Matist said. “By focusing on my gymnastics and not others it can help me realize the things I am good at and being positive really helps achieve goals.”

The girls love working together and having such a close relationship.

“My favorite thing about the law gymnastics team is the team spirit,” Matist said. “The whole team is always there for each other and we will always hype each other up before a routine in a meet.”

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Employment Developer Mrs. Knoth Helps Students Prepare For Life After Graduation

(Photo by Cesar Mendez)

By Cesar Mendez – Sports Editor

Jonathan Law’s Employment Developer has been hard at work helping special education students get ready for their futures. 

Mrs. Knoth assists students to gain a better understanding of what is required in a professional work environment.

“The JLHS Work Experience program has a significant impact on students and their ability to gain and master multiple vocational skills in order to become successful in true life employment opportunities outside of the school environment,” Knoth said.   

Knoth and the programs have expanded to include both Canine Catering and Blossom Boutique and student-made products are sold and distributed at the Parson’s Perks Cafe, select community partners, and several pop up shops across town.

“She’s had a tremendous impact on the Law community by leading students, providing them with experiences beyond our walls, and supporting the needs of all the people at Law,”  Principal Bryan Darcy said. 

Knoth has seen plethora of students that have been impacted by the opportunities she has provided to students. 

“I have seen the Work Experience Program grow confidence and self esteem in our students in knowing that they have the necessary abilities needed to reach their fullest potentials in gaining employment after graduation, which is very gratifying to be a part of as an educator,” Knoth said.  

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Speech & Language Pathologist Ms. Salvi Helps Law Students Communicate Effectively

(Photo courtesy Harry Fisher)

By Harry Fisher – Sports Editor

The role of a Speech and Language Pathologist is vital to many students in school but often goes unnoticed.

A Speech and Language Pathologist works hard to evaluate and treat speech, language, and communication disorders. They look at each student as an individual and work to create a plan that will help them. Some students need help with social skills, some students need help to strengthen their reading skills, and some students need support to communicate effectively. 

Their work even goes beyond the school day, for they often work collaboratively with families to ensure the best possible care is given to a student or patient. At Law, Ms. Salvi is that person. 

She has worked at Law for the past several years and always goes above and beyond to help the Law student population. She helps our students with their communication skills and teaches everyone how they can advocate for themselves. 

Salvi got her degree in Communication Disorders from Southern Connecticut State University. She also got her Masters in Communication Disorders at Mercy College.

Salvi began her career in the Bridgeport School System before coming over to Jonathan Law.  She also travels to St. Mary’s School in Milford to work with their students as well. This is Salvi’s sixth year at Law.

I help students who have speech or language-based difficulties improve their listening and speaking skills so that they can be better communicators socially and academically,” Salvi said.

Jonathan Law Principal Mr. Darcy sees the impact Salvi has had on helping the Law community. 

“Ms. Salvi is a great Speech and Language Pathologist and overall a support team member here at Law,” Darcy said.  

Darcy said that Salvi has helped students at Law take their academic growth to a whole new level.  

Ms. Salvi works closely with our students and their families to ensure they are supported and show growth with the work they are doing with her,” Darcy said. “She is a hero here at Law to many students.”

SPORTS: Jennings Shines During Junior Cheer Season, Earns All-SCC Nomination

(Photo courtesy Chloe Edmonds)

By Alexa Rosati and Michael Merchant – Staff Reporters

Junior Shequanna Jennings has unveiled her talents throughout the 2023-2024 cheerleading season. 

Jennings remarkable performances have gained her a nomination for All-SCC where she will be watched closely during the upcoming state ompetition in hopes of receiving an award.

“Being nominated for SCCs felt like there was more pressure for me to do my best because there was someone watching me specifically during the competition,” Jennings said. 

Jennings spends hours refining her techniques, watching past performances and collaborating with teammates to ensure they synchronize perfectly for their upcoming competitions. 

“I prepare myself for competitions by practicing the night before over and over,” Jennings said. “I like to record myself to see how I look doing the routine.”

Jennings and the rest of the team were tasked with writing down their individual goals in a book which would be visited at the end of the season to reflect on their accomplishments and growth. 

“My goals for the rest of the season are to continue winning competitions, hit zero, and have fun,” Jennings said. 

Jennings works extremely hard and it pays off. Her teammates have noticed her hard work and dedication. 

“Shequanna is very strong in her stunts and is always willing to try new things,” junior Sofia Brienza said. “She is always trying to motivate everyone to do their best.”

Jennings’s coaches have observed her diligent effort and are immensely proud of her accomplishments. 

“Shequanna is a such a good athlete because she is dedicated and hard working,” Head Coach Morgan Colombo said. “She is also extremely coachable and takes feedback well. She will continue to work until she masters a skill.”

SPORTS: Cepetelli Finishes Solid First Season For Law Basketball Team

(Photo courtesy Nathan Gallicano)

By Courtney Russo – Staff Reporter

Freshman Kevin Cepetelli is a first-year Law JV basketball player at Law.

Cepetelli plans on playing basketball for the rest of his high school years and is working towards making the varsity team. He is excited about how his first season has played out.

“We have had some up and down moments,” Cepetelli said. “But I think we work really well as a team and I feel there is not a single player that doesn’t put 110% effort into games and practices.” 

Cepetelli continues to improve each game and always shows up with a good attitude.

“Kevin is one of the most coachable players,” JV coach Mr. McPartland said. “ He is always looking to improve his game and has a knack for asking the right questions.”

With Cepetelli being such a positive person, his teammates love to learn and be on a team with him.

“Playing with him is so fun,” freshman Tyler Stankevich said, “ He brings so much energy and skill to the court and his dribbling and shooting abilities are top-notch.”

In the future, Cepetelli is working towards making the varsity team and growing his skills more and more at every practice and game. He brings so much skill and energy to the team already.

“Kevin is also one of the more positive guys and always seems to have a smile on his face,” McPartland said. “He brings a ton of energy to our practices and games and that energy is contagious.”

This year, the team has grown so much on the court. Many fans show up to games to watch the team play.

“As a team we all care about winning and how we preform as a family,” Cepetelli said. “ There is always room for improvement.”

NEWS: Jonathan Law Fitness & Nutrition Club Continues To Gain Members

(Photo courtesy 123rf.com)

By Madi Black – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s recently-formed Fitness and Nutrition is continuing to gain members.

The Fitness and Nutrition Club will have its seventh meeting of the year on February 23 from 2-3 p.m. in Room 128. Members said that the club is a great way to work out and get help from others so students don’t injure themselves.

This club is something that I’m able to express the interest I have in the hobby while also helping others out during our workouts,” sophomore Fitness and Nutrition Club President Kris Shastry said. “I am glad that I even got people to try and step out of their comfort zone.” 

Shastry wants others to have confidence in themselves to work out in a public space. He thinks that everyone should be able to workout and have a good nutritious life.

“We currently have 20 members that are a mix of boys and girls,” Shastry said. 

Shastry wanted a place where students could not be afraid of the workout they were doing. 

“I made the club because I wanted to share my knowledge about muscle growth with people who want to gain muscle,” Shastry said. “Without having to question everything they do and have a place for questions to get answered the best they can.”

The club has fliers around the school with dates when they are meeting. You can find them on any bolutin board or by asking an aminstrader. 

Shafty is not the only person who students can ask if they need help with form. Shastry is glad to help anyone with questions about the club or questions regarding the time and dates.

“I am in charge of the club and run scheduling with the vice president and treasurer,” Shastry said. “I am the one that helps people out with their form or if they have any questions along with (history teacher) Mr. Lui.”

The Fitness and Nutrition Club wants more students to join. They still have several meetings left the rest of the school year.

“We are going to have anywhere from 8-10 more meetings this year,” Shastry said. “We want as many students that feel comfortable or just need a spot to workout to join.”

SPORTS: Junior Captain, Pole Vaulter Richardson Leads Law Boys Indoor Track Team

(Photo courtesy Nathan Galicano)

By Alex Rodriguez – Staff Reporter

Junior captain Joey Richardson is a pole vaulter for the Jonathan Law boys indoor track and field team.

Richardson recently finished his strong indoor season with a 10th place finish at the Class M State Tournament.

“My season has been going good so far, ” Richardson said.  “I was able to get a personal record at my last meet which was 11 feet. Now I’m only one foot away from breaking the school record.”

Richardson is very committed to breaking his record as well as the school record.

“I’m really focused on improving my form and aiming to break the school record, ” Richard Said.

Richardson received very high praise from his teammates.

He is the best vaulter in our school currently and qualified for states in the first meet,” junior teammate Carl Wischow said.

All the work that Richardson has put in has started to pay off. 

“Joey has put in the work all season, and has done great at meets,” junior indoor track teammate Addison Barber said.

Richardson is also a leader of the team who helps out his fellow teammates a great deal. 

“I help lead stretches and I help coach and teach anyone who wants to do field events,” Richardson said. “Field events being long jump, high jump, and pole vault.”

Teammates said that Richardson helps to bring the team together.

“He faces challenges well and his ability to inspire unites his teammates,” sophomore teammate Yeiden Nieves said.

Richardson also spends a lot of time recruiting other kids to pole vault. 

“His leadership has shined as he took the role of captain of the pole vaulters and he has done a good job recruiting people to pole vaulting,” Wischow said.

In addition to helping recruiting, Richardson enjoys helping new pole vaulters and showing them what he knows. 

“Joey shows younger kids how to pole vault and helps out at long jump and high jump sometimes,” Barber said. “He has helped me at meets and practices by taking my steps and giving me feedback on my jumps.”

SPORTS: Girls Indoor Track Team Crosses Finish Line On Successful Winter Season

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Aislyn McKernan and Alexia Poloski – Staff Reporters

The Law girls indoor track season came to a very successful end.

The team recently competed on SCC Championships. At that meet, senior Alexis Borecki broke the school pole vault record with a jump of 9’0″. 

“I am proud of what I have been able to accomplish this season considering things like the little amount practice I have been able to get in with the weather and stuff,” Borecki said. “I am excited for states and to keep improving for future meets.”

Senior Caden Simpson had a strong showing at SCCs. She tied her school record in the 55M high hurdles with a time of 8.72 which qualified her for the Nike Indoor Nationals.

“I am happy with my performance at SCCs,” Simpson said. “I tied with my school record and got a new season best after months of practice.”

Senior captain Hailey Russo had a solid showing in her final indoor season.

So far my biggest achievement this season is making states for the 4x200M relay team and helping the SMR making states,” Russo said.

This season, many girls posted personal bests and improved meet by meet and several qualified for SCCs and states.

“It was a good season overall,” sophomore Alani Velez said. “Lots of people made states and SCCs and we had some really good relay teams for the girls this season.”

This season showed how much the girls are improving and how hard they are working towards their goals. Many different people from all different grades were training and achieving their goals over this winter season. 

“Being a freshman on the team was great, the team didn’t treat us any differently and they helped us with things like our form and how to get faster,” freshman Ava Hayden said.

Freshman Alivia Kaplanka enjoyed her first indoor track season as well.

“I think the track team is inspiring and I definitely would recommend the sport for anyone thinking of joining,” Kaplanka said.

Members of the indoor track team joined the team for different reasons, but all seem to enjoy the sport the more they try it.

“I was inspired to join the track team because my family is very involved in sports and I thought track would seem fun,” said junior Riley Lapham. “I wasn’t originally sure what I wanted to do, but the more I came to practice the more I was interested in hurdling, eventually I decided to try it and I’ve loved hurdling and track since.”

NEWS: Law Ski Club Hits The Slopes In Vermont For Final Trip Of Season

(Photo courtesy @tpturcotte)

By Chloe Edmonds and Analiyah Velez – Staff Reporters

The Jonathan Law Ski Club recently took its final trip of the season to Killington Mountain in Vermont. 

There were about 25 people who went on the trip which cost $200 per person. The Ski Club went on a total of three trips this ski season, with Killington being the overall favorite. 

“I had a great time skiing down Killington,” freshman Cole Alogna said. “The weather was great and the scenery was beautiful.” 

The Killington trip was a whole day event. Students had to wake up as as early as 4 a.m to get ready and get on the bus. 

“We got there around 8 a.m. and we were there for at least 12 hours,” freshman Everett Alogna said. “We had a lot of fun and I’m sad to see the club come to an end.” 

The favorite part of the trip for most club members was the scenery and connecting with their peers.  

“My favorite part of the trip was seeing all the views from the beautiful mountains with my friends,” sophomore Layla Alogna said. “It really takes your breath away.”

Members of the Ski Club encourage students to join if they are looking for a new adventure and looking to participate in the Law community . 

“Ski Club is an amazing place for making memories with your friends and meeting new people,” sophomore Lily Pleimann said.

In order to prepare, students needed to make sure all of their gear was rented, that had clothes that were sure to keep them warm, and that they had snacks to make the trip more comfortable. 

“We had a really good group of friends to ski with and it was pretty warm that day with a lot of snow,” sophomore Charlotte Balderi said. “The bus ride was long but it was so worth it.”

NEWS: Law’s Multicultural Club Recruits New Members, Plans Activities

(Photo courtesy brcs.edu)

By Cindy Bone – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s Multicultural Club is recruiting new members to plan activities for the rest of the school year.

The Multicultural Club is advised by Mrs. Evans, who seems to be enjoying her first year teaching at Law.

“As a new teacher at Jonathan Law High School, I wanted to find ways to get to know students outside of the English classroom,” Evans said. “Mr. Darcy indicated that this club needed an advisor and I thought this would be a great place for me to start.”

The Multicultural Club is working on new plans for the club including having students and faculty wear awareness t-shirts for February since February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness month. They plan to discuss this at their next meeting in hopes to share their initiative to Law in the future.

The club is also planning on showcasing different cultures at upcoming meetings.

“I’m looking forward to having some more people come to the cultural presentations and potlucks,” sophomore Gleidson De Souza said.

The Multicultural Club also holds potlucks as a way to share food from different cultures. All students are invited to participate.

“I’m looking forward to all the potlucks that the club is doing,” sophomore Mya Cordeiro said.

Some students recently have shown an interest in joining the club.

“I went to their last meeting because my friend wanted me to go, and I actually found it interesting and was thinking of joining,” sophomore Jaylen Rogers said. 

The Multicultural Club is a great way for students to get involved in extracurricular activities at Law and to make new friends. Students can find information about meeting ties by watching The Morning Briefing.

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Academic Tutor Mrs. Griswold Keeps Students Organized, Motivated

(Photo by Haley Stroffolino)

By Haley Stroffolino – Social Media Editor

Mrs. Griswold is the academic tutor at Jonathan Law, assisting students with school work, organization, time management, and more.

Before coming to Law, Griswold taught sixth grade Language Arts.

“I knew I would like to transition from middle school to high school,” Griswold said. “I like that I get to know so many different students and help them however they need.”

Griswold creates a learning environment where students take on challenges and ask for support. Whether it’s one-on-one sessions or drop-ins, Griswold is always available in the TLC to help.

“Mrs. Griswold communicates effectively with all staff to support students,” Law Principal Mr. Darcy said. “She’s a valuable resource, providing students with an additional layer of support beyond the classroom.”

Senior Samuel Steven often stops by Griswold’s room for academic assistance. 

“Mrs. Griswold helps guide the direction of my writing,” Steven said. “When I’m unsure, she serves as someone I can bounce ideas off of. She breaks down assignments into manageable tasks, making essays feel less intimidating.”

Steven said that Griswold helps him breaks down daunting tasks into manageable sections and helps him set attainable goals. These goals help Steven stay focused and use his time efficiently.

“During my periods with Mrs. Griswold, she set attainable goals for me within that time, such as having an introduction finished by the end of a block period,” Steven said.

Griswold not only enhances students academic performance but also instills a sense of confidence and resilience in the face of challenges. 

UNSUNG HEROES OF LAW: Secretarial Staff Helps Law Operate Behind The Scenes

(Photo by Ella Franzman)

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief 

Jonathan Law’s secretarial staff is always working hard behind the scenes to make sure that everything runs smoothly. 

In the Main Office there are three secretaries – Mrs. Heenan, who is Assistant Principal Mrs. Farotti’s secretary, Mrs. Sarullo, is Assistant Principal Mrs. Sulzycki’s secretary, and Mrs. Silver, who is Mr. Darcy’s secretary. 

“We both (Sarullo and I) schedule appointments, assist students, answer phones, update attendance records, register new students, and send correspondence to parents just to name a few,” Heenan said.

The secretaries and support staff are critical in the daily operations and do so much for the school that sometimes goes unnoticed. 

“They are the ‘first line’ of communication for families when they call the building to communicate with another staff member or their student(s),” Darcy said. 

Heenan, who has been at Law since the summer of 2015, also works at various Law sporting events as a site supervisor. She helps to check students in through Law Nation, sells tickets and help cheer on our teams. Sarullo also helps out as a site supervisor for athletic events. 

“My favorite part of my job is helping and getting to know all of the students, going to and selling tickets to our sporting events, and making some life long friends here,” Sarullo said. 

Sarullo, who will soon be going on maternity leave, has worked at Law for almost 12 years. 

“I handle Mrs. Sulzycki’s calendar, scheduling meetings and teacher observations for her,” Sarullo said. “I also handle new student registrations for grades 9 and 11 this year and my biggest project of the school year is coordinating the Senior Awards Program.” 

Ms. Lagarde, who is filling in for Silver while she is on maternity leave as well, worked at Law previously from 2019-2022.

Lagarde, who is currently Darcy’s secretary, is in charge of attendance, helping substitutes, and ordering supplies. She also schedules all of Darcy’s appointments and answers any incoming phone calls for him.

“I really love the people I work with here at Law – the community and students, teachers and staff make it a special place,” Lagarde said. “I also really enjoy seeing and interacting with the students.”

Heenan also agreed with Lagarde, wishing that she could know even more of the students’ names and their successes. 

“I love being part of the family we have created at JLHS,” Heenan said. “I enjoy being a team player and helping with whatever needs to be done in the office as well as assisting students with whatever they need.”

NEWS: Law, Foran Student Broadcasters Live Stream Pair Of Basketball Games

(Photo courtesy @jlawadvocate)

By Ava Vercellone – Staff Reporter 

A group of Milford high school students recently broadcast the Law vs. Foran Coaches vs. Cancer boys and girls basketball games. 

Law junior Ella Franzman, Law junior Harry Fisher, and Foran sophomore Joey Kurzner broadcast the games, which were live streamed on the MGAT Education YouTube channel. A group of Law students, including senior Helen Chizmazia and sophomore Harshitha Kothapalli, were camera operators for the broadcasts as well.

“It was a great experience broadcasting the crosstown rivalry,” Kurzner said “I hope I can do more Foran and Law games”

The students got involved when MGAT reached out to teachers at Law and Foran and asked if they had students who were interested in commentating the game. Kurzner and Fisher did the girls basketball game and Kurzner and Franzman did the boys game.

“I thought my broadcasting was good,” Fisher said “This was my first step to my broadcasting career.” 

This was Fisher’s first time broadcasting a live event. Kurzner and Franzman had previous broadcasting experience at the Law vs. Foran Thanksgiving Day game. 

“This is something I’m looking to pursue in college and post-college,” Franzman said “ After we did the football game we had talked about live-streaming the Law vs. Foran basketball games. It didn’t work out for the first game before holiday break but we were able to do it for the Coaches vs. Cancer game.” 

Kurzner was the play-by-play announcer for both games. Fisher was the color commentator for the girls game, and Franzman was the color commentator for the boys game. 

“It was such a great opportunity and real-life experience,” Franzman said “I’m excited to do these games next year.”

SPORTS: Junior Captain Konareski Helps Lead Law Into Postseason Play

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Brian Goglia – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law girls basketball junior captain Chloe Konareski has helped the team exceed expectations this season. 

Law was winless last year, but this season they are 9-9 and have qualified for the SCC Tournament and Class MM State Tournament. 

“Coming off of a 0-20 season last year we felt like we had a lot to prove and wanted to work as hard as possible to not repeat what we did last year,” Konareski said. “We definitely improved a lot this year and are looking forward to states.”

Konareski’s leadership skills have helped the team achieve their goals and make them better everyday in practice.

“As a captain, I believe that a big component to not just winning, but having fun is confidence,” Konareski said. “Everyone picking each other up after a mistake, cheering, having  energy is really important to building confidence. I strive to set a good example for the younger and newer players hoping they will set a good example for their teammates in the future building the program in a positive way.” 

Konareski said she is excited the team has achieved so many of its goals this season.

“Our goals for this season were to win at least eight games and make it to states,” Konareski said. “Coming off of a tough rebuilding season last year, we wanted to show everyone our capabilities and showcase our hard work that was put in during pre-season and practice.”

Law is now starting to prepare for postseason play.

“We are preparing for the SCC Tournament and State Tournament by taking practice day by day,” Konareski said. “It’s a waiting game to see who we will end up playing in both tournaments, so our plan is to work on ourselves, improve on our play and weaknesses, and just hope to outwork our components.” 

As they finish up the regular season, the tea is proud of how this season unfolded.

“This year was very different from last year,” Konareski said. “Last season we had a slow start, getting a brand new coach and having a tough schedule but we bounced back after a season of rebuilding. Practice is super competitive with everyone’s strong work ethic and drive to get better and win which is awesome to see and be a part of.” 

NEWS: New Law Club Promotes Asian & Pacific Islander Awareness

(Photo courtesy API Club)

By Layla Alogna – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s Asian & Pacific Islanders (API) Club is a new group looking to promote awareness of the inclusivity of Asian and Pacific Islanders.

API Club was founded by sophomore Siya Patil who is looking to be a representative of the Asian community at Jonathan Law. Patil was inspired by the need for awareness and representation so she decided to step up.

“The cub’s purpose is to advocate for the API community and promote awareness at Jonathan Law, especially during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which takes place in May,” Patil said.

Junior Diya Patel is the Vice President of the club. She was inspired by the message and wanted to be part of the API community.

“I decided to become the Vice President because it gives me an opportunity to make Law a place for Asians and Pacific Islanders to feel comfortable with showing off their culture and to find somewhere to learn about others,” said Patel.

History teacher Ms. Shagoury decided to step up as the club’s advisor because she wanted to help promote the club’s message and get more involved in the Jonathan Law community.

“The API Club strives to create inclusion among the Asian and Pacific Islanders at Jonathan Law,” Shagoury said. “We also plan to do several fundraisers throughout the year in support of providing for various Asian and Pacific Islander reliefs as well as bringing awareness to the community at Law.”

The club’s Executive Officer, junior Sunaina Khan, is really passionate about the club and enjoys giving back to the community through fundraising.

“Advocacy-driven and ambitious people should participate in Asian & Pacific Islanders Club because we organize events & fundraisers beneficial to the groups we donate to but also to the Law community,” Khan said. “For example, our holiday goodie bag event not only uplifted holiday spirits but also raised funds to address food insecurity in Milford’s Youth alongside Milford Food 2 Kids.”

API Club recently sold holiday goodie bags to raise money for UNICEF and Milford Food 2 Kids. UNICEF is an organization that supports children’s health and nutrition. Donation money goes towards providing kids with clean water, quality education, and skill-building resources.

“I enjoy the fundraisers we organize to support local organizations such as Milford Food 2 Kids,” senior Moulika Sivalenka said. “This connects the school and benefits our local community.”

API Club meets once a month during Advisory on E days.

“People should join this club because it promotes inclusivity and helps students get involved to learn more about API voices and traditions while learning about the API community as a whole,” Patil said.

SPORTS: Sophomore Crump Helps Lead Girls Basketball Team To State Tournament

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Charlotte Rascoll and Jordan Torres – Staff Reporters

Sophomore Andrea Crump has showcased all of her talents during the 2023-2024 Law girls basketball season.

Crump has helped lead the team to a 9-9 record which qualifies Law for the SCC and Class MM state tournaments. She feels she had a better season this year, both mentally and physically.

“I came in more confident than my freshman season, with a better mindset and more skills and of course more goals to achieve,” Crump said. “There’s always more improving to do and I just take it step by step.”

The team has made major improvements and have found ways to work together this season.

“I feel like the team has been working very good together,” Crump said. “We see the goal that we are trying to reach, and we are just all working hard to get there.”

Crump’s hard work has stuck out to her coaches and her teammates. Assistant Coach Dawn Morrisey has been impressed with the season Crump has had, and knows she has been working hard during the off season.

“I would say her biggest accomplishment this year is the work she has put into expanding her game,” Morrisey said. “She has been pushing herself to develop her outside more, and working on her defense.”

This year, Crump has started in the majority of Law’s games. Junior captain Chloe Konareski knows how hard Crump has been working,and has been impressed by her abilities.

“Being a sophomore starter is a big role to fill and in the off season she worked hard to improve which she showcased this season,” Konareski said. “She is one of our leading scorers and a strong aspect to the team. I’m super excited to see her improve in the years to come.”

Crump has also been a big influence to her teammates and has encouraged them to also do their best.

“What I enjoy about Andrea as a teammate is that she always has so much energy and pushes us in practice,” Konareski said. 

NEWS: Law’s SAVE Promise Club Selling Valentine’s Day Candy-Grams 

(Photo courtesy SAVE Promise Club)

By Sophie Kalagher – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law SAVE Promise Club is selling Candy-Grams for Valentine’s Day during the month of February.

Students and staff can send Candy-Grams to their fellow classmates and advisors by filling out a Google Form, which is due by February 9. A Candy-Gram costs $2 with the note and candy attached getting delivered on Valentine’s Day. 

“This event is meant to show people that someone is thinking about you,” SAVE Promise Club Advisor Ms. Healy said.

The Google Form can be found on all SAVE Promise Club social media accounts and is linked in the club’s Instagram bio (@jlhssave). Students and staff are able to turn in money for the Candy-Grams to Healy and club officers. 

“The club is preparing for the event by printing out advertisement posters and hanging them around the school, writing out the notes, and encouraging their friends to order one,” senior SAVE Promise Club Secretary Gianna Gagliardi said.

The Candy-Grams were proposed as a great way to raise money while celebrating Valentine’s Day. 

“I think its a great way to educate our community and bring awareness,” freshman SAVE Promise Club member Sadie Timmeny said.

The money will go to future events to spread the club message of love and kindness. 

“All the proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly back into the club and this will help pay for more activities throughout the year, and even the National SAVE Summit that is happening in April that students in the club can apply for,” junior SAVE Promise Club Treasurer Ella Franzman said. 

The club is currently working towards upcoming events and at the moment is also working on creating merchandise.

The next big event will be “Say Something Week” which will be occurring during the week of March 4-8. “Say Something Week” focuses on recognizing warning signs of mental illness and violence. 

“I think this event will be a great way to connect with peers and friends and spread awareness,” freshman SAVE Promise Club member Talia Haga said.

NEWS: Jonathan Law Choir, Band Students Attend CMEA Regionals

(Photos courtesy Law Choir and Band)

By Gabriella Coffin – Staff Reporter

Members of the Jonathan Law Band and Choir recently attended CMEA Regionals on January 20.

Twenty-five music students were accepted into the CMEA program – 21 from the Choir program and four from the Band program. They each worked very hard to achieve where they are with the CMEA program as well as what they will do moving forward. 

“CMEA is a music competition with students all over the state and we all audition to be apart of a Regionals Festival where all selected students sing together,” sophomore Christopher Serrano said. ”It is a very different experience than I am used to because I am used to being directed by (Law Choir Director) Ms. Jones. CMEA people are mixed into Mix Choir and Treble Choir and each group has different songs to perform by the end of the weekend.”

The CMEA audition involves three sections, with students singing two major scales with correct pitches, tempo, and rhythm. Students are required to perform an Italian Aria with correct vocal techniques, which is unusual as they are singing solo rather than in an ensemble. 

“For Choir, I spend a decent amount of time helping the students with sight reading during and after school,” Choir Director Ms. Jones said. “This is a skill that really we could spend entire class periods for weeks, months and even years in order to become truly proficient in.”

Despite the many nerves from the students, the concert turned out to be beautiful.

“The audition process was not bad, although I was extremely nervous because it was my first time doing something like this,” junior Sarah Ahmed said. “But after I got accepted, a weight was lifted off my shoulders.”

During the weekend of the concert, the students in the CMEA program took a bus to rehearse with other students from all around the state. 

CMEA is known for its talented student musicians who wish to further their musical talents. It provides a place for students of all regions of Connecticut to meet other people and form bonds with people who also have an interest in music.

“It felt amazing to be selected for CMEA this year,” freshman McKenzie Forte said.” I have been in many other orchestra and band programs before, but CMEA is a very special place to meet others with the same interests as you, due to the auditioning process. If a student or inspired young musician wants to prepare for a future audition or have a chance of getting into CMEA some time throughout their high school career, it is always good to practice.”

NEWS: Drama Club Prepares For Upcoming Performance Of “Mean Girls”

(Photo courtesy @jlhsdrama)

By Molly Lynch – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Drama Club is preparing for its upcoming production of the iconic movie – and musical – “Mean Girls” on March 8-9.

Members said the Drama Club is great for students with a passion for the arts or who want to be part of a community of kids with similar interests. This club also allows students to feel like they are a part of a real project and a chance to perform in front of an audience.

“This club allows us to express our creative side while being part of a strong community,” Drama Club Advisor Ms. Lenotti said. “It’s fun both socially and artistically.”

This club allows anyone interested in it to be welcomed with open arms into a safe community.

”People should join this club because you’ll get to meet so many new people and be presented with new opportunities,” said senior Lissette Soto, who plays the lead role of Cady Heron said. “Even if you are someone who may not like to be in the spotlight, there is a place for everyone in this club.” 

This club has left a positive impact on many students at Law who are or have been a part of it.

“I have seen so many people gain confidence and make so many friends after joining Drama Club,” said sophomore Keira Askintowicz, who plays the role of Karen Smith said. “It has truly changed my perspective on so many things and I am much happier since I’ve joined.”

Members of this club enjoy the stress-free environment and the peers whom they interact with. 

“I like being a part of Drama Club because everyone in Drama is really funny and super easy to talk to,” said junior Brayden Dollar, who plays the roles of Glen Coco and Cady’s Dad said. “And also acting is just a fun passion which makes drama even more fun in general.”

Members of the Drama Club are excited to perform their version of “Mean Girls.”

“I am most looking forward to being able to show the Law community all the hard work and dedication we put in each day,” said sophomore Chris Serrano, who plays the role of Damian. 

SPORTS: Law Hosts Annual Coaches vs. Cancer Basketball Games

(Photos courtesy Nathan Galicano)

By Fiorella Gargiulo – Staff Reporter

Law hosted two Coaches vs. Cancer basketball games against Foran’s girls and boys basketball teams on January 24.

The Law and Foran girls teams played a back-and-forth game that Foran ultimately won 55-44. The Law and Foran boys teams also played a hard-fought game which Foran won 63-36.

“This game was a big improvement from our last rivalry game,” junior Captain Chloe Konareski said. “We prepared for them and anticipated their game plan, as well as mentally prepared for it.”

Rivalry games bring together fans and other students. Junior Captain Cameron Upchurch thinks that playing against their cross-town rivals invokes another level of gameplay to the court.

“Rivalry games differ from other games because they are more intense,” Upchurch said. “We have extra motivation, and the atmosphere is great with all the fans that are there.”

While the crosstown rivalry brings excitement to the Milford atmosphere, the meaning of the games is truly why Law and Foran come together to play.

“While there is a healthy sense of competition every time we play Foran, for moments in our Coaches vs. Cancer game, our differences are put aside and we focus on what is truly important—coming together to fight for something much bigger than us,” Assistant Boys Basketball Coach Mr. McPartland said.

The Coaches vs. Cancer games raised money cancer awareness. Fans wore pink and were encouraged to donate to the designated cause of the game.

“This year the funds raised between lunch wave collections and door collections the day of the event were over $450 and went to The Get in Touch Foundation, which teaches about breast health,” Assistant Girls Basketball Coach Ms. Morrissey said.

Law vs. Foran games are important to a lot of Law’s student athletes. Most students in Milford grew up playing with or against each other, so high school rivalry games are important, nostalgic, and exciting.

“Even though we lost to them this year, that feeling will help us be stronger next year when we face them again,” junior Taylor Coretti said. “Since some of us only play Foran two more times, we are going to play harder because we want to beat our rival school before moving on from high school.”

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