By Cameron Medina – Staff Reporter

Mr. Morazzini is the Advisor for the Fishing Club at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Cameron Medina interviewed Morazzini about the club, which has its first meeting of the year on Tuesday, September 29, from 2:00-2:30 p.m. in Room 59.

Cameron Medina: What type of fish do you catch in Fishing Club?

Mr. Morazzini: For the Fishing Club, we catch any fish that are present in Long Island Sound- for example- striped bass, bluefish, porgy, sea bass, fluke, etc.

CM: What is the best bait to catch those fish?

MM: Baits that work for these fish are species-dependent but generally live or chunked menhaden, squid, eels, sandworms, and different types of lures.

CM: Do you use a special rod and reel?

MM: Most rods and reels will work for at least one of these species. I would say if you’re a student planning on joining Fishing Club, speak to me about this at our first meeting.

CM: Where do you go to catch fish?

MM: It is best to prioritize casting distance since we are fishing mainly from the shore.

CM: Do you fish on land or a boat?

MM: For the club, although we have chartered boats in the past, we will be fishing mainly from shore.

By Jackson King – Social Media Editor

Mr. Maurutis is a Health teacher at Law. Advocate Editorial and News Editor Jackson King interviewed Maurutis about teaching Health and what students can take away from the class.

Jackson King: What inspired you to becomeaHealth teacher, and what do you enjoy most about teaching health?

Mr. Maurutis: I have always enjoyed sports, exercise, and learning about the human body, which led me to pursue my undergraduate studies at ECSU in Exercise Science and Health Education. Growing up, I also saw family members struggle with diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Those experiences personally motivated me to develop a deeper understanding of health and how lifestyle choices can impact our overall well-being.

JK: What do you think is the most important thing students should learn from your Health class?

MM: At the end of the day, I want students to understand how the choices they make can affect their physical, mental, and social well-being. My goal is for students to recognize that they have a significant role in their own health and that making informed, healthy choices can help them live their best and most fulfilling lives. I want them to leave my class with knowledge and skills they can carry with them beyond high school and use throughout their lives.

JK: How do you make Health class interesting and engaging for students?

MM: I believe that the nature of the topics and the authentic, real-life curriculum naturally lead to interesting and engaging content. Topics such as mental health, relationships, nutrition, exercise, substance use, sexual health, and personal safety are all areas that students can relate to in their everyday lives.

JK: What is one of the biggest challenges you face when teaching Health, and how do you handle it?

MM: One of the biggest challenges I face when teaching Health is meeting the level of Health education for all students when discussing topics that can sometimes be personal, sensitive, or uncomfortable. Students come into Health class with different backgrounds, experiences, and levels of knowledge, so I try to create a classroom environment where everyone feels respected and comfortable participating.

JK: What is one thing you hope your students take away from your class and remember even after they graduate?

MM: One thing I hope my students take away from my class and remember long after they graduate is that they have a significant role in their own health and well-being. I want them to understand that the choices they make every day, whether related to physical health, mental health, relationships, nutrition, exercise, or other areas of their lives, can have a lasting impact. I hope they remember to be informed, think critically, and make choices that help them live their healthiest and most fulfilling lives.

By Ryan Woods – News Editor

Alicia Francisco is the Head Coach for the Jonathan Law girls soccer team. News Editor Ryan Woods interviewed Francisco on the fall soccer season.

Ryan Woods: What are your main goals for the team this season?

Alicia Francisco: Our main goals for this season are to improve each day and each game, while also staying healthy.

RW: What are the team’s biggest strengths going into this season?

AF: Going into the season, we are excited to welcome back Emily as the school’s leading scorer. We look forward to watching her score more this season.

RW: What challenges do you expect the team to face this season?

AF: Depth might be a challenge this season as we welcome new players to the game.

RW: What are you most excited to see from the team this year?

AF: I’m excited to see the girls’ excitement and enthusiasm on and off the field.

RW: What do you think the team needs to improve on the most this season?

AF: Right now, our team needs to focus on getting healthy so we can stay consistent on our positioning. It’s hard to focus on positioning when players have to try different positions they are not used too. 

By Zach Hyatt – News Editor 

Mr. Ragaini is the Dean of Students at Jonathan Law. Advocate News Editor Zach Hyatt interviewed Ragaini about the start of the school year.

Zach Hyatt: How do you think the school year has started so far?

Mr. Ragaini: I think the year has started really well. The first few weeks are always a little crazy. Everyone is trying to remember their schedules, figure out where they are supposed to be, and get back into the school routine. But overall, I think our students and staff have done a great job getting settled in. It has been nice seeing students back in the building and getting involved.

ZH: What are some of the biggest changes students can expect this year?

MR: “he biggest change students are probably going to notice is the construction and everything that comes with it. We have some different parking and traffic patterns, so there has definitely been some adjusting. I think we are all getting a little more exercise because of it! We also have some new expectations and routines that we are working on, and we want to continue giving students more opportunities to get involved and have a voice in what happens at school.

ZH: What are some challenges the school has faced at the beginning of the year?

MR: The biggest challenge has probably been getting everyone back into the routine. Summer is great, but unfortunately, it does eventually come to an end. We have had to adjust to construction, new traffic patterns, getting to class on time, and making sure everyone understands the expectations. There are always a few bumps in the road at the beginning of the year, but that is normal. The important thing is that we keep working through them.

ZH: What are you most excited about for this school year?

MR: I am really excited about all of the opportunities we have planned for students. I love seeing students get involved in things outside of their regular classes and take some ownership of their school. We have some fun events coming up, and I am especially looking forward to seeing students work together, try new things, and maybe step outside of their comfort zone a little bit. I also love seeing our seniors take on more of a leadership role. They are the oldest kids in the building now, so we are going to remind them that with great senior privileges comes great senior responsibility.

ZH: What advice would you give students to have a successful school year?

MR: Get involved, make good choices, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Come to school, get to class, do your work, and surround yourself with people who are going to push you in the right direction. You are going to make mistakes. Everyone does. Learn from them, move on, and do better the next time. And most importantly, enjoy high school. It goes by much faster than you think – even though you probably won’t believe me when I tell you that.

By Matthew Witteman – Social Media Editor

Mr. McPartland is a Spanish teacher at Jonathan Law. Advocate Social Media Editor Matthew Witteman interviewed McPartland about his classes this year.

Matthew Witteman: What do you like most about teaching Spanish?

Mr. McPartland: I think I most enjoy helping students realize their potential. I also very much enjoy helping students learn about other cultures. As soon as things start to click, it’s pretty cool to see the reaction on students’ faces.

MW: What challenges do you face when teaching Spanish to students?

MM: One of the biggest challenges is getting students to overcome their fear of being wrong and sounding silly in front of their friends. Students will often be wrong when learning a language and that’s OK.

MW: What inspired you to become a Spanish teacher?

MM: I’ve grown up working around kids and always had the idea that I would become a teacher. My best friend growing up was from the Dominican Republic, which made the idea of one day being able to interact with and converse with him and people who speak Spanish very interesting.

MW: What is your favorite activity or lesson to teach in Spanish class?

MM: My favorite activity to teach in Spanish class is really anything that gets my students up and moving around. We do a dictation activity that requires students to use all four modes of communication – listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

MW: What is something you hope students take away from your class?

MM: Ultimately, I hope my students understand the importance of being a good person, of being respectful, of helping others. I hope students understand how lucky they are to attend Jonathan Law and that by learning about other people and cultures, we ultimately learn a lot about ourselves.

By Morgan Cappock – Social Media Editor

Mr. August is the tutor at Law. Advocate Social Media Editor Morgan Cappock interviewed August about his role helping students with their academic needs.

Morgan Cappock: What is your favorite part of being a tutor at Law?

Mr. August: My favorite part of being a tutor at Law is that I get to see students improve over the year in classes they’re struggling in. It’s also nice to see them improve their relationship and viewpoint of a class they didn’t understand at first. 

MC: What made you become a tutor at Law?

MA: I always enjoyed working with people and I knew it was going to be very fulfilling to work with the public in a school environment. I enjoy learning and love to share my knowledge with whoever can benefit from it. 

MC: How many years have you been working at law?

MA: I started here full-time in November 2024 so almost two years. 

MC: How has your perspective on students changed throughout those years?

MA: The most noticeable change in perspective I’ve had over the years is that students find it difficult to participate in classes that are outside of their interests. These tend to be the classes they struggle in the most and where they can use the most support. 

MC: Outside of tutoring, what is your favorite part of your day here at Law?

MA: My favorite part of my day is seeing all of my co-workers and the students here. We have an excellent staff and a great student community. Everyday when I’m walking into the building, I’m very happy to see everyone here. 

By Taylor Mola – Social Media Editor-In-Chief

Senior Ava Daniele is the Choir Manager for the Law Choir. Advocate Social Media Editor-In-Chief Taylor Mola interviewed Daniele about the Choir.

TM: What is your job as the Choir Manager?

AD: My job as manager is to over see the Choir. I am like Ms. Jones’ right hand man. I am there to help her out wherever she needs me and I help run warm ups and class the absence of her and the Section Leader.  

TM: What advice would you give to new people joining the Choir?

AD: The best advice I could give it to introduce yourself to others and be confident. Some of my best friends are friends I have met in Choir. As for confidence, Jones will always say confidence is key. Being confident helps you succeed in Choir. It helps you learn the music better and it creates more entertainment for your audience.

TM: Besides the singing, what else is choir truly about?

AD: Choir is truly about family. In short periods of time we become a very close knit group. A family. We have so much fun together, both inside class and out, and without that bond we would lose what helps us stand out from other choirs. 

TM: What are some events your planning for Choir?

AD: Our most exciting event is our music department trip to Nashville that will be towards the beginning of march. We usually go on a big trip like this every three years, but every year we go to see a musical on Broadway and to Six Flags for our competition.

TM: What are you most excited about for this year?

AD: This year, besides the trip, I am most excited to work alongside Ms. Jones and the rest of the amazing Choir Board as Manager. 

By Alexandra Oliveira – Editor-in-Chief

Marina Cosmas is the Sophomore Class President at Jonathan Law. Advocate Editor-In-Chief Alexandra Oliveira interviewed Cosmas about the school year.

Alexandra Oliveira: What are your goals for the upcoming school year?

Marina Cosmas: My biggest goal is to make this a fun and memorable year for our class. I also want to encourage more students to get involved, make sure everyone’s ideas are heard, and plan events that bring our class together.

AO: What fundraising events are you planning to do?

MC: We’re planning to have different fundraisers throughout the year, such as food sales, spirit events, and other activities that students can participate in. We want to make fundraising enjoyable while raising money for our class and future events. We are trying to push for a student vs. staff volleyball game, but we are waiting to have a meeting about it.

AO: How are you planning to prepare for the Ring Dance?

MC: We’re going to start planning early and work with the rest of the student council to organize things like music and the price. We want to make sure the Ring Dance is an event that everyone can enjoy.

AO: How can people find out about upcoming events, updates, or plans?

MC: Students can stay updated through school announcements, social media, and information shared by the student council. We’ll also make sure to remind everyone about upcoming events and important dates.

AO: What’s the most rewarding part of being a part of student government?

MC: The most rewarding part is being able to represent my class and make a difference in our school. It’s also rewarding to see students enjoy the events and activities that we worked together to plan.

By Aislyn McKernan – Editor-In-Chief

McKenzie Forte is the Senior Class President at Jonathan Law. Advocate Editor-In-Chief Aislyn McKernan interviewed Forte about the school year. 

Aislyn McKernan: What are your goals for the upcoming school year?

McKenzie Forte: My goals for the upcoming school year are to strengthen our class spirit, increase participation in school events such as Homecoming, and to make sure every student feels heard and represented.

AM: Are you planning any events for this upcoming year?

MF: Yes, I’m planning several events such as spirit weeks, Homecoming, Prom, and our senior trip to Six Flags. So far, we have our Six Flags tickets at about $60, but we plan to lower it (hopefully) to $30 with the help of our fundraising efforts.

AM: What challenges have you faced in past years?

MF: The biggest challenge I’ve faced has been trying to find a balance between everyone’s different ideas and packed schedules. Meetings were difficult to plan and events were extremely hard to organize. But, those experiences just taught me how important it is to communicate and stay organized alongside the members of our 2027 Student Council. Without challenges, there is no growth, so I am very appreciative of what I have learned through being Class President these past few years. 

AM: How can people find out about upcoming events, updates, or plans?

MF: Students can find out about events through the 2027 Google Classroom, the 2027 GroupMe, or our Class of 2027 Instagram account. If anyone has any questions about upcoming events, they are more than welcome to ask me or any other Student Council member for more information. 

AM: What is the most rewarding part of being Class President? 

MF: The most rewarding part of being Class President is being able to see our class coming together in such unique ways. Additionally, I love being able to be involved in events that students will remember long after graduation. Making an impact means a lot to me, so I hope I am able to do that for each and every student at Jonathan Law. 

By Tyler Lilly – Editorial and News Editor

Mr. Healy is the Advanced Creative Writing and Publishing teacher at Law. Advocate Editorial and News Editor Tyler Lilly interviewed Healy about the class.

Tyler Lilly: What do you like most about teaching Creative Writing?

Mr. Healy: I just love art, including stories, and so helping young artists tap into their potential and guide them has always been rewarding to me. Plus, I love learning alongside students. Every year, I learn and find new techniques. Lastly, I love reading the stories students come up with. They’re random, and funny, and sad, and complicated, and they just always bring up interesting, thought provoking topics that I don’t always get to discuss in a core English class.

TL: What obstacles do you face trying to get the book published? 

MH: First, just getting stories ready to publish. It’s a big task to get high school level writing up to that advanced, polished level. Then really it’s just the work it takes to get the book formatted, printed, and shipped, which is something that goes above and beyond the responsibilities I have in other classes. but I love doing it.

TL: How many years have you taught Creative Writing?

MH: Seven years.

TL: What Creative Writing advice do you have for students?

Mr. Healy: So much, but let me try to give you one pithy maxim. I guess I love the advice, “write what you know.” So many students want to write these big, epic fantasies, or mysteries, involving all sorts of complicated ideas. So they struggle because there’s a lot they need to learn or come up with to make it realistic and detailed enough to be published, so they give up because they didn’t realize that challenge. But I would say, especially when you’re just getting started, try to mine your own life and experiences for interesting and thought provoking moments and conflicts, because you’ll find writing about those much easier. Then read and learn as much as you can to increase what you know about, so when you go to write about cops, or doctors, or armies, you have more knowledge to tap into.

TL: What goals do you have for the Advanced Creative Writing and Publishing class this year?

Mr. Healy: I would love to publish another class anthology, but overall, I just want to see your confidence as writers grow.

By Dani Kotansky – Editor-In-Chief 

SAVE Promise has begun their regular meetings and activities this school year. Advocate Editor in Chief Dani Kotansky interviewed SAVE Promise Club Co-President Aislyn McKernan about both upcoming SAVE events and an overview of the club. 

Dani Kotansky: What is SAVE Promise Club and what is the story behind it? 

Aislyn McKernan: SAVE stands for students against violence everywhere. We are a youth-led club which is a part of Sandy Hook Promise. We focus on violence prevention and mental health. 

DK: What are some goals for SAVE this year? 

AM: Some goals for SAVE this year are to grow our club and get everyone involved in the school community. We always have the goal of making everyone feel safe and comfortable in our school community.

DK: What is “Start With Hello Week”? 

AM: “Start With Hello Week” is September 21-25 this year. It is to get the school community comfortable and create positivity. We plan activities for that week to get classmates, teachers, and peers to get to know each other and create a safe space for new friends.

DK: What else can students expect to see from SAVE this year? 

AM : We are planning many activities this year. Our first big event will be in October (date to be confirmed) and we will paint pumpkins.

DK: When and where will meetings be held? 

AM: The meetings will usually be held in Room 126 but depending on space needed we might move to Room 128 or somewhere like the cafeteria. We have an instagram (@jlhssave) where we notify any room or plan changes. We meet on F Days during Advisory and once a month after school on Monday.

By Abigail Merenda – Social Media Editor-in-Chief

Ryan Pearson is the Head Coach of the Jonathan Law football team. Social Media Editor-in-Chief Abigail Merenda interviewed Pearson about the football season. 

Abigail Merenda: What did your pre-season look like this year?

Head Coach Ryan Pearson: Our pre-pre-season was an all-in mindset after the disappointing end to our season last year. First thing we did was really step up our strength and conditioning, and we did that by partnering with The RACC gym in Milford, where our kids got top-end training by professionals at a top-end gym facility. We also hosted our 7v7 spring league. We attended the Grip It N’ Rip it 7v7 tournament at New Canaan with teams from all over Connecticut and New York and ended up finishing in the Elite 8. Our players also attended camp with teams such as New Canaan and Greenwich to get them competing against elite teams from Connecticut. We also prepared by giving them challenging opponents in scrimmages. Also, staff-wise, we have returning Defensive Coordinator Joe Devellis (former Westhill Head Coach), Linebacker Coach Jeff Queiroga (former Brian McMahon Head Coach), and Wide receiver/JV Head Coach Frankie Gaines, who is also the indoor track coach here at Law.  We also brought on four new coaches to our staff: Zach Festa, who coached at Staples High School and Pace University; John Marullo, a former Greenwich High School player and SCSU rugby coach; Matthew Ramos, a former defensive lineman for Bryant; and Connor Kelly, who played for Salve Regina.

AM: What are your expectations for this season?

RP: Expectations for this team are very high from the people outside of our locker room. In the media, in the school, at home, and around town. I always tell our kids, “Don’t eat the rat poison.” We don’t want to pay attention to the outside noise and just focus on what we need to do to get better every week and compete to the best of our ability. I expect to play fast, physical, and with relentless effort regardless of the outcome of the game and make the Black and Gold community proud.

AM: Who are the hardest teams you face this year that you hope to win against?

RP: That is hard to say now because it has only been 1 week, and some of the teams we play who had successful seasons last year may have lost a lot of returning starters. Now we play some really historically great programs this year, such as West Haven, Cheshire, North Haven, and Shelton, but we also play some teams coming off having a lot of success last season, like Northwest Catholic who was in the state championship last year, and Lyman Hall who went 7-3 last season and has a lot of returning starters. 

AM: What are some challenges your team has overcome so far? 

RP: The biggest challenge we faced as a team so far this season was definitely Arthur Rossi tearing his ACL before the season even began. Arthur was such a huge part of our defense, playing D-line and always having such a positive attitude and such a competitor. So, it is tough to lose someone like that and hard on everyone to see him lose a season on the field.

AM: Do you have a pregame superstition, and what is it?

RP: I do have some pregame “superstitions.” On gameday, on my drive in, I am listening to the Gospel, and when I arrive at the school I sit in my car and just read the Bible before I head into the school. I also always have to be wearing my Jesus is King hoodie on gameday. Some other things I do are grab an iced coffee from Dunkin on the way in, I refuse to do my opening play script until the morning of the game, and I don’t know if superstition or just habit, but it always has to be Mrs. Heenan in the main office who prints my playsheet for games. I’ve never allowed anyone else to do it.

By Ella Hopkins-Gianotti – Social Media Editor

Library Media Specialist Ms. Mundy will be hosting a library card drive on Friday in the TLC. Advocate Social Media Editor Ella Hopkins-Gianotti interviewed Mundy about the drive.

Ella Hopkins-Gianotti: What is the goal of the library card drive?

Ms. Mundy: A library card drive gives an opportunity for anyone in the school to be able to get a library card to the Milford Public Library.

EHG: What details do students need to know about the drive?

MM: This is happening on Friday, September 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be a representative here from the public library, and she usually has lollipops, and little giveaways. Last year they did these little mystery animals. She’s done stickers, so she usually has something fun for the students as well.

EHG: How will getting a library card impact our students?

MM: Having access to a library card is not just about books. It’s a lot about the community and the engagement. A lot of people don’t realize that with a library card, you can check out video games. Or you can use this streaming service called Canopy where students get access to research materials, e-books, and audiobooks, as well as the print books. There’s also a lot of, like, library activities.

EHG: Why does Law host this event every year? 


MM: So I think it’s really important for students to be aware of what the library can provide for them. 

EHG: Why should everyone get a library card? 

MM: Libraries are the best, not only do you have access to books, but information and programs.
And some of them will lend out seeds, and power tools, and all sorts of things, so libraries are great for the community.

By Ryan Woods and Zach Hyatt – News Editors

Jonathan Law’s new Athletic Director, Mrs. Bickelhaupt, is looking forward to her first year leading Law athletics. Advocate News Editors Ryan Woods and Zach Hyatt interviewed Bickelhaupt about her goals and plans for the 2026-2027 school year.

Zach Hyatt and Ryan Woods: What made you want to become an Athletic Director?

Mrs. Bickelhaupt: I was really close with my Athletic Director in high school. I played three sports, so I was always hanging around, helping him out after school until practice, and I really enjoyed how he was involved in all of the sports. He was still able to have fun and maintain great relationships with student-athletes while running an entire athletic department. I thought it was a really fun job.

ZH & RW: What are your biggest goals for Law’s athletic programs this year?

MB: This year, I would love to see big student sections at games and help create an atmosphere where students want to come support the athletic teams we have, and athletes want to compete at a high level at Law. It’s one of the best parts of high school to look back on all the memories and remember how much fun you had at the games, cheering from the crowd, and experiencing what it’s like to play in front of crowds like that. Those are the moments you’ll remember long after high school is over. Another goal would be to have a strong brand around the campus.

ZH & RW: How do you plan to support student-athletes both on and off the field?

MB:“On the field is easy – making sure fields and courts are safe, ensuring we have what we need to run a smooth event, being present, and getting to know everyone while their coaches feel supported to run a program. Off the field, I think having students actively participating in captains council and leadership opportunities, like the sportsmanship field trip, will help programs become stronger, and students who come up through the school want to be a part of.

ZH & RW: What is one thing you would like to improve about the athletic program?

MB: I would like to help improve the numbers we have in our programs and look to have all three levels of sports across the board. A handful of teams have just a varsity/JV team. Getting those participation numbers up to build a strong and competitive athletic program is key.

ZH & RW: What is one thing you want students and athletes to know about you?

MB: I want student-athletes in and out of my office all the time. I want to have great relationships with the kids in the school. It makes my job more fun and I get to know who I’m cheering for on the field. So stop by, say hi, and talk some sports with me.

By Anwita Puttam – News Editor

Senior Chris Serrano is a member of the Jonathan Law Choir. Advocate News Editor Anwita Puttam interviewed Serrano about his Choir career.

Anwita Puttam: How was your final year of Choir?

Chris Serrano: My Choir year has been incredibly rewarding. It gave me the opportunity to grow as both a singer and a leader while creating memories with people who share the same passion for music. It was a busy year, but it was filled with meaningful experiences and performances that I’ll always remember.

AP: How do you feel now that it’s over?

CS: It’s definitely bittersweet. I’m proud of everything we accomplished, but it’s hard to say goodbye to a group that has been such a big part of my high school experience. At the same time, I’m excited to see what comes next.

AP: What impact did Choir have on you throughout the years?

CS: Choir has helped me become more confident, disciplined, and comfortable performing in front of others. It taught me the value of teamwork and showed me how powerful music can be in bringing people together. Some of my closest friendships and favorite high school memories came from Choir.

AP: What was your favorite part of Choir?

CS: My favorite part was performing with the ensemble, especially during concerts and special events. There’s something special about working toward a common goal and seeing all the hard work come together in a performance.

AP: What would your advice be to incoming freshmen?

CS: Don’t be afraid to get involved and put yourself out there. Take advantage of every opportunity, make connections with the people around you, and enjoy the experience. The years go by much faster than you think, so make the most of every moment.

By Courtney Russo – Social Media Editor-in-Chief

Mr. Maurutis is the coach of the Jonathan Law golf team. Advocate Social Media Editor-in-Chief Courtney Russo interviewed Maurutis about the golf season.

Courtney Russo: How has your season gone so far? 

Mr. Maurutis: The golf season ended last week, and we fell short of some of our goals, which were to win the Mayor’s Cup and make the State Tournament.

CR: What goals did you achieve this season? 

MM: We still had a great season playing some great golf, developing our players and skills for next year. Even though we fell short of some of our season goals, I am proud of the team for playing with grit, etiquette, and sportsmanship. 

CR: Which match was your favorite and why?

MM: Favorite match this season was our win against Hamden at The Vue Country Club. Our team shot a season best of 164, which is an amazing round. Cooper Pietrowski shot a 39, Tyler Stankevich shot 40, Dylan Gaillard shot 42, and Logan Thomas shot 43.

CR: What was your favorite memory from the season?

MM: Some memorable moments from the season were shooting 164 against Hamden, 166 against Amity, having multiple players break 40, Ben Distassio almost making a hole in one, and just being out there each and every day with our team.

By Sarah Hammad – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Bradford is a World History and AP Macroeconomics teacher at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Sarah Hammad interviewed Bradford about the year overall and her transition to teaching next year in a new country.

Sarah Hammad: Reflecting on your first year, what would you say were the most significant challenges you encountered and how did you navigate them? 

Mrs. Bradford: So, being in a new building, I didn’t know many of the other teachers other than people in the social studies department, so trying to learn people’s names, trying to learn my way around the school, you know, just some different, I guess, just different ways of conducting business at school. Each school has its own way of doing things, you know. The announcements are a little bit different here than they were at Foran. I’m not saying one is better than the other. They’re just different. And so, just getting to know the building and how the school runs and how administration, you know, wants things to be run. So that, you know, there’s always a transition period, to learn, a new place when you’re in a new place. 

SH: Can you share any particularly rewarding moments or experiences from this past year that solidified your passion for teaching social studies?

MB: I always enjoy learning from my students and their experiences, and I felt like this year, I had a lot of different students who’ve taught me some things that I didn’t know or made me aware of, their cultures or their backgrounds. Their lived experiences, and their families experiences that broaden my horizons, and, you know, help me become a better teacher and help me understand the curriculum better. So I always like that. I really love learning from my students and having them. I mean, I love, I’m passionate about teaching, and I love teaching, but I also love learning from my students, because they have a lot to teach me. Yeah, it’s always nice to hear from someone who’s experienced something. 

SH: How has your understanding of student engagement and effective teaching strategies evolved throughout the first year here? 

MB: So I think, you know, I, one of the things that’s kind of an ongoing debate in education right now is, the use of cell phones, and, and their distractibility in class. For the most part, I thought students were really respectful in putting their phones away and not having them out. I didn’t have many challenging moments, and I tried to make light of them when students did have them out and get my phone jail out, and, you know, have a sort of laugh about it. But I really hope that, you know, going forward, that students are very mindful of how distracting phones can be, and so, I just, I kind of want to make… I just want to emphasize that, and that I really have enjoyed the moments when students haven’t had their phones out, and I’ve had time for, not for cutting casual conversations, too, not just conversations about the class, but interact with each other, because I feel like even I’m guilty of spending too much on my phone and focusing too much time on my phone instead of interacting and having conversations with real humans, ’cause I think that’s that human connection is important. 

SH: Looking ahead, what are your primary goals or aspirations as you move to Australia next year?

MB: So, I’m hoping to take my experience, obviously, from Law.  Every school I’ve worked at, I’ve learned new things. new content, new skills, but also from how the school conducts events from, like, the spring fling to the social emotional things, like the mingle, jingle, I always like to think about, could I, could I bring this to another school or bring this idea to another school? So, I always try to take my experience with me, but also learn from that school and how they do things. So I’m hoping to continue teaching in Australia. It’s a slightly different school year and different curriculum. So I don’t know if I’ll get a job right away, since we’re moving right in the middle of their school year, but I hope that I can continue my teaching career there as well.

SH: Beyond the curriculum, what has been your most valuable lesson learned about building relationships with students and colleagues in your first year at t:aw?

MB: So I think that’s the primary part of being an educator. I think the curriculum and content are secondary, because if you don’t have good relations with your students, you can’t, it’s very hard to build trust in each other and build a great learning environment. So I think what I’ve learned at Law is that, relationships between faculty and between students and faculty are really strong here, and, and, as Mr. Darcy always says in his emails, and, as I hear, multiple times throughout the year, this is, like, a family and the Law family, and I think that that’s something that Law has really gotten right and really does well, that people feel like they are part of a cohesive group here. And so I think that I would probably take that forward in continuing to develop relations with my students and also my colleagues, because that’s why we’re here. That’s why we do this.

By Shania Sanchez – Staff Reporter

Senior Amaya Lewis is one of many Members of the Jonathan Law Class of 2026 completing a Senior Internship. Advocate Staff Reporter Shania Sanchez interviewed Lewis about her experience.

Shania Sanchez: Where are you completing your internship?

Amaya Lewis: My internship is at Sacred Heart University.

SS: What are your daily responsibilities?

AL: I sometimes assist the coaches at Sacred Heart University Pitts Center, I help at the football camps as well as with google slide presentations they have to do?

SS: What are the biggest benefits you are receiving from this internship?

AL: This benefits me by giving me a glance at what my future career can hold. I want to be a sports manager so this gives me a proper introduction into that world and what it holds.

SS: What does a day at the Pitts Center looks like?

AL: I start the day off with entering and greeting my advisor and then they give me my tasks. Usually those tasks entail helping out at the camps, helping with google slide presentations, and assisting  other coaches with their needs.

SS: What have you learned from this experience?

AL: It has made me more motivated and much more engaged in my career path and it has helped me feel like I can comfortably say that I am ready for my college journey. 

By Adrian Vitale – Social Media Editor

Junior Rithvik Muthyapu is a member of the Law boys tennis team. Social Media Editor Adrian Vitale interviewed Muthyapu about the season.

Adrian Vitale: How did the team do this year? 

Rithvik Muthyapu: The team did great this year. We had one of the best seasons and the second best record in school history thanks to all the hard work by every single player on the team.

AV: How did you do as a player this year? And how do you feel you could have improved? 

RM: This year I had a good season, bringing in crucial wins for the team. However I think tennis is a large tennis game, and me, along with many other players, sometimes get frustrated and end up playing worse. This is something I’m trying to work on.

AV: How did you get into tennis?

RM: I first got into tennis the summer after 8th grade. A couple of my friends were on the tennis team and I came to summer practices to join it too. I quickly realized that I found the sport very fun and enjoyed it, which caused me to commit to it for the rest of my high school career.

AV: If you weren’t playing tennis, what other sport would you play?

RM: In middle school, I ran the 400 in track so I think if I wasn’t doing tennis, I would probably join track. I choose tennis in the end because I enjoy it much more than I enjoy running though.

AV: How do you feel you and the team have improved from the start of the year?

RM: At the start of the season, the team had a lot of raw talent and potential. Through the season, I got to watch the team turn that talent into skill through real games and tons of practice. Over the year, the team has improved significantly in all areas, learning by playing players from other schools. Real game experience also helped us learn how to handle and perform under pressure.

By Logan Mullarkey – Sports Editor

Sophomore Reid Moulton is a track athlete at Jonathan Law who has been working to improve his speed and overall performance. Through practices and meets, he has learned that track takes consistency and effort, especially when workouts get difficult. He has drastically improved between freshman and sophomore year, becoming a State-caliber runner by the end of his sophomore year. Advocate Sports Editor Logan Mullarkey interviewed Moulton about his season.

Logan Mullarkey: What events do you compete in and what do you enjoy most about them?

Reid Moulton: I mainly run sprinting events like the 100 and 200. I like them because they’re quick and competitive, and every race feels like it really matters from the start since there is not a lot of time to make mistakes.

LM: How would you describe your biggest strength as a runner?

RM: I think my biggest strength is my start and acceleration. I’m usually able to get out quickly, which helps me stay in races early. I’m still working on keeping that speed through the whole race though to improve my times.

LM: What is something you personally focus on improving in practice?

RM: I’ve been focusing on my form and staying relaxed when I run fast. Sometimes I tense up, so I’m trying to fix that so I don’t lose speed. I’m also trying to build more endurance so I can finish stronger.

LM: What has been your most memorable race or moment on track so far?

RM: My most memorable race was one where I ran a personal best at SCC and everything just felt smooth. It was one of those races where I didn’t overthink anything and just ran. It showed me that my training is actually paying off, and I ended up making the SCC Championships.

LM: What motivates you to keep pushing yourself during tough practices?

RM: I just want to get better and beat my own times. Even when practice is hard, I think about improving personally and also being able to help my team in relays as well. That usually keeps me going. 

By Madi Black – Social Media Editor-in-Chief

Junior Lily Stankevich is the center fielder for the Law softball team. Advocate Social Media Editor-in-Chief Madi black interviewed Stankevich about earning All-State and First Team All-SCC honors, her team’s SCC runner-up finish, and their State Tournament run.

Madi Black: How does it feel to be named First Team SCC and All-State this season?

Lily Stankevich: It feels amazing. I’m very grateful that I was honored in both areas this year. 

MB: What was your favorite moment from the SCC Tournament run?

LS: My favorite moment has to be when we beat Foran in the semifinals and then went into extra innings with Cheshire. 

MB: What do you think was the biggest factor in your team’s success this year?

LS: It was definitely how we all stuck together no matter what happened to us. We never left each other’s side and we became so much closer as a team. 

MB: What challenges has your team overcome to reach this point in the season?

LS: We have had many ups and downs this season but it brought us so much closer and helped us win multiple games. 

MB: What goals do you have for the rest of this season?

LS: I want to make it to the Championship game at UConn and hopefully win the State Tournament. 

By Logan Mullarkey – Sports Editor

Molly Croce is currently completing her Senior Internship at Milford Animal Hospital. She has always been interested in working with animals and wanted to learn more about veterinary care. Through this experience, she is getting the chance to see what it is like to work in a real animal hospital. She is going to be majoring in Animal Science (pre-vet) in college. Advocate Sports Editor Logan Mullarkey interviewed Croce about her internship.

Logan Mullarkey: What made you interested in doing an internship at Milford Animal Hospital?

Molly Croce: I’ve always loved animals and wanted to see what it’s like to work with them in a real medical setting. I thought it would be a great way to learn more about veterinary care and more of what I want to study going into college.

LM: What are some of your daily responsibilities while working at the animal hospital?

MC: My daily responsibilities include helping clean cages, assisting staff with basic tasks, feeding animals, and observing how the veterinarians treat patients. I also help make sure the animals are comfortable.

LM: What has been the most interesting or memorable experience you’ve had so far with the animals?

MC: The most interesting experience I’ve had was watching a dog get treated after being injured. It was really nice to see how quickly the staff helped the dog and how much care they showed.

LM: What skills or lessons have you learned from this internship?

MC: I’ve learned how to be responsible, how to handle animals safely, and how important communication is in a veterinary office. I’ve also learned a lot about different animal health issues.

LM: How has this experience changed your thoughts about working with animals in the future?

MC: This internship has made me even more interested in becoming a veterinarian or working with animals in the future because I really enjoy helping them and seeing them get better.

By Tyler Lilly – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Key Club, a club committed to volunteering and helping the school and community, has had a successful 2025-2026 school year under Advisor Mr. Boynton. Advocate Staff Reporter Tyler Lilly interviewed Boynton about the Key Club’s year, as well as its future.

Tyler Lilly: What impacts does the Key Club have on our school and community?

Mr. Boynton: Key Club helps students grow academically, socially, and personally while making the school and community stronger, more connected, and more compassionate.

TL: What accomplishment of the Key Club this year are you most proud of?

MB: The overall success we had working as a team completing over 50 school and community projects helping us establish us as one of the three Diamond Club members in New England. 

TL: What’s one way you think the Key Club and its members can improve?

MB: Increasing our membership and attendance at meetings in the fall anyone interested in joining should see Mr. Boynton or Co-Presidents Ava Grippo or Rish Koduri.

TL: What is your favorite part of leading the Key Club?

MB: I really enjoy how involved Key Club members become in their school and community. I have watched students come in as quiet, shy freshmen, and as they gain a better understanding of what Key Club is all about, by really getting involved, they grow into mature, confident young adults.

TL: What are your goals for the Key Club next year?

MB: Next year we will continue to work close with our sponsor the Milford Kiwanis Club, work hard to raise money for Camp Sunshine and the Salvation Army, and look forward to increasing our membership so that we can continue to thrive in both our school and community involvement.

By Mihika Dabhade – Staff Reporter 

Freshman Class President Nina Hernandez has spent the year collaborating with her counterparts and representing her classmates. Advocate Staff Reporter Mihika Dabhade interviewed her on her experience in the role. 

Mihika Dabhade: What inspired you to run for Class President?

Nina Hernandez: The thing that really inspired me to be Class President was planning. I was very excited to plan all these things to raise money for our class. I like being very organized, planning stuff out, and seeing the result of all that hard work. 

MD: What are some goals or initiatives you hope to accomplish for the freshman class this year?

NH: I think one of my goals was just trying to raise enough money for our class because people kept telling me that freshman year’s the hardest, having some challenges fundraising, but we got through it. 

MD: What challenges have you faced in this leadership role, and how have you worked through them?

NH:  Some of the challenges I have faced this year were not getting my word or my point through. I have a whole council with me, and we all express our ideas and opinions differently, so getting everyone to contribute equally was challenging. 

MD: What has been the most rewarding part of serving as class president so far?

NH: I would say I love helping people out to make them smile and make a difference in our community. It’s one of the biggest rewards you can get.

MD: What message would you like to share with the freshman class as the school year continues?

NH: One thing I would like to share is there’s a lot of strings attached to trying to plan something. And once all those strings come together, it could be really exciting, so make sure you plan things accordingly to get what you and your team members want. Also, vote for me for sophomore Class President!

By Teagan Liphardt – Staff Reporter

Ms. Kelly is an English teacher at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Teagan Liphardt interviewed her school year. 

Teagan Liphardt: What is the most rewarding part of being an English teacher?

Ms. Kelly:  I hope that my students remember some great stories and experiences with literature. I also hope they remember the formula of writing to help support them as they move on to harder classes and texts. I would also love it if they remember my passion for English and for them to succeed. 

TL: What do you hope students take away from your class by the end of this year?

MK: The most rewarding part of being an English teacher (especially in English 1) is reading my students’ narrative writing. Hearing about their struggles and successes in their own writing voice is my favorite part of the year. 

TL: How do you connect with your students and keep them engaged in class?

MK: I try to be kind to all of my students and keep them engaged with interesting pieces of literature, but I also hope that I have new ways for them to engage with the work so that it doesn’t feel too monotonous. 

TL: What inspired you to become an English teacher?

MK: I always wanted to work with this age group, and initially wanted to be a social worker, but when I was in High School, I had a great English teacher who really supported me through hard times. 

TL: What is your favorite book or story to teach 9th graders, and why?

MK: I really love teaching poetry in English 1 as well as Night by Elie Wiesel. That book is usually one of the first introductions my students have to the experiences of the Holocaust, and it’s a beautiful book to read. 

By Courtney Russo – Social Media Editor-in-Chief

Harshitha Kothapalli is one of many members of the Class of 2026 currently doing their Senior Internship. Social Media Editor-in-Chief Courtney Russo interviewed her about her experience.

Courtney Russo: Where is your internship?

Harshitha Kothapalli: I work at a local magazine downtown called Milford City Lifestyle Magazine.

CR: How has your internship gone so far?

HK: My internship has been great so far! As I have worked with Milford City Lifestyle before, this was an easy transition with more responsibility.

CR: What is your primary role during your internship?

HK: My primary role is a little scattered due to my recent promotion. But as Chief of Staff, I now take charge of communications and lead certain up-and-coming projects that the magazine would like to take on. I also help with marketing and social media. After my internship, this would turn into a paid job for a tiny time before college.

CR: What have you learned?

HK: I have learned a vast range of things from sales tactics to marketing skills to writing techniques to new musicians introduced by my boss.

CR: If you could do anything differently, what would it be and why?

HK: To be honest, I wouldn’t do anything differently. Although it’s cliché, this work experience has taught me that mistakes are truly a part of the process. The only thing I wish is that I got involved with MCL earlier in my high school career.

By Dani Kotansky – News Editor

With the end of the school year just around the corner, seniors began their real world experience with an internship. Pursuing a degree in nursing, Sunny Scarpa will gain valuable experience interning with Griffin Primary Care. News Editor Dani Kotansky interviewed Scarpa about her internship. 

Dani Kotansky: Where is your internship? 

Sunny Scarpa: My internship is at Griffin Primary Care in Southbury. It is a doctors office that is a part of the Griffin Healthcare Organization. 

DK: What might a typical day look like for you? 

SS: A typical day for my internship is observing doctors, nurses, and other professionals during appointments and as they go through their daily responsibilities. Internships in healthcare come with few hands-on responsibilities, but one of the main things I get to do is take notes on what is going on and learn from each of the different professionals I am with. 

DK: How will this internship help you in your career? 

SS: This internship helps my future and career by showing me what daily life and responsibilities are like as a nurse, as well as showing how skills you learn as a CNA or student nurse are applied in the real world. 

DK: What has been your favorite part of your internship? 

SS: My favorite part of my internship has been getting to listen and observe abnormalities in patients such as wheezing lung sounds, irregular pulse, and looking at ear tubes. Getting to see and hear these allows me to apply skills I have learned in Law’s CNA program, as well as see things you wouldn’t expect to. I also like to see how these professionals communicate with each other and with other specialties, showing how critical communication is for each patient. 

DK: Why did you choose this internship? 

SS: I chose this internship because I had previously shadowed here over this summer and have heard many great things about this organization. The professionals that work here are very talented and have received many accolades, and it shows in the work they do everyday.

By Tiana Rosiak – Staff Reporter

Junior Ava Grippo has been the Secretary for Key Club and is gearing up to become President of the Key Club next year. Advocate Staff Reporter Tiana Rosiak interviewed Grippo about the Key Club.

Tiana Rosiak: Overall, how did the Key Club do this year?

Ava Grippo: Overall, the club year was great. I felt so much more involved and made many new connections with the people in my club. I loved being able to work closely with the other officers and contribute to making the Jonathan Law Key Club succeed.

TR: What has been the most difficult part of being a secretary for the Key Club?

AG: For me, there wasn’t really anything really difficult. Mr. Boynton and I worked together and were always on top of getting the information needed to fill out the monthly report and getting it done on time. I think that worked really well and Mr. Boynton was a great help!

TR: How has being a member of the Key Club impacted you?

AG: Key Club has impacted me a lot. I loved being able to volunteer and be involved in the Milford community and involved in Jonathan Law. I’ve been able to get a lot of my volunteer hours, meet many new people, and make a name for myself at Law, climbing up from being a member to Secretary to President. It helped me realize what I was capable of and that if I can put my mind to something, I will succeed.

TR: What has been the most rewarding part of being a member of the club?

AG: The most rewarding part of Key Club for me has been my achievements along with helping the people of Milford and Jonathan Law. I love being able to help the community and give back, volunteer, and fundraise knowing it’s going to a good cause and helping others. To me, that’s the most rewarding part, helping others and bringing joy. I loved being able to help out at school events and the Kiwanis. I have had so many experiences and gained so much knowledge. I have learned what I am capable of by winning number one best Secretary for New England Key Club, allowing me to grow more and realize that what I do has an impact.

TR: What has been your favorite memory from Key Club this year?

AG: My favorite memory is 100% DECON. I had the time of my life. I met so many people and grew so much closer with the people in my club. I was so happy the entire trip and I will never forget the experience.

By Cora Aitkenhead – News Editor

Senior Kayla Markowitz has used the Senior Internship opportunity to fuel her passion for politics as she interns at the Mayor’s Office. News Editor and Staff Reporter Cora Aitkenhead interviewed Markowitz about her experience at the internship and how it has prepared her for her future in studying Political Science. 

Cora Aitkenhead: How do you feel the work at this internship is properly preparing you for what you want to do in the future?

Kayla Markowitz: Interning for the Mayor has been an invaluable experience in shaping my understanding of local government and public service. I have learned an incredible amount about the role of our mayor and what he does every day to better the Milford Community. Beyond getting to know more about day-to-day responsibilities of the Mayor’s Office, this internship has also allowed me to develop my communication skills in more professional settings. Above all that, it has deepened my excitement to study political science because I have seen first hand how different departments and organizations collaborate on policies that have a direct impact on the community. 

CA: What is the most interesting thing you have learned (about politics or in general) through this internship?

KM: One thing I have learned more about is the energetic nature of the mayor’s role. The position is so demanding, and beyond needing someone who is 100% dedicated, it requires you to make quick decisions, adapt to setbacks, and navigate a variety of very complex issues, all while trying to keep everyone happy – which is just as difficult as it sounds. Every day, Mayor Smith has to make countless decisions to support the citizens of Milford, and along with that, it is his responsibility to seek out opportunities and innovations to improve the community. I have realized that local government is much more than big-picture ideas, and it requires you to think about all the immediate needs of the people.  

CA: How has working with Mayor Smith given you an authentic experience of working in politics?

KM: Working with Mayor Smith has been great because I definitely get to see the ups and downs of being in local government. He treats every meeting with the same respect and commitment, whether it’s a heavy conversation about homelessness or a more exciting conversation about improving the Connecticut post mall. I have learned that the most important conversations are often the ones nobody wants to have, and while some meetings can get pretty intense, it has been inspiring to watch Mayor Smith treat every issue with the same amount of consideration and attention. 

CA: What is something you look forward to doing/learning/experiencing as your internship wraps up?

KM: First off, I am excited to have a week off before graduation after a very busy senior year (a very busy four years if we’re being honest). Above that, I am excited to go into summer with a deeper understanding of the role of local government in the community and the direct impact it has on citizens within the community. I am looking forward to taking a step back and being able to reflect on everything I have learned, while preparing myself to use that knowledge for my journey at Tufts. I know that whether or not I continue my interest in political science, I have a wonderful experience that has truly made me appreciate how policy that appears small-scale has a large impact on people’s daily lives. 

CA: What is one piece of information or advice you’d give to students interested in politics wanting to partake in this internship?

KM: For younger students who are interested in politics, or overall interested in being more involved in their community, the biggest thing I can say is when you don’t see an opportunity right in front of you, create one! It can be super intimidating to try to get involved, but I have realized that oftentimes, the bigger the challenge the bigger the reward! Seek out every opportunity, and apply to anything even if you tell yourself “there’s no chance” because trust me, there is always a chance. Milford has so many different ways for students who are interested in politics. Reach out to local candidates to see if they need help with their campaign, or apply to the Mayor’s Youth Council, which is open to all Milford middle and high school students.

By Kendall Upchurch – Staff Reporter

Junior Courtney Russo is the #2 singles player for the Jonathan Law girls tennis team. Advocate Staff Reporter Kendall Upchurch interviewed Russo about her spring season. 

Kendall Upchurch: What was the single match or moment when you felt everything finally clicked?

Courntney Russo: The single match I played this year that made everything fall into place was my match against Cheshire. I went into it not expecting a win and came out on top twice, which felt amazing. Also, this season I won 2 state matches, which felt amazing.

KU: What is the number one thing you and your coaches are focusing on improving each match?

CR: The number one thing I focus on improving isn’t my physical playing but my mental playing. The physical aspect is the easiest of all. The mental part is hard because you’re out on the court all alone, so when I play badly, it’s difficult to get back by myself.

KU: How did you manage the mental side of the game when a match wasn’t going your way?

CR: The way I handled the mental side of the matches was by trying to get a lead early on in the match. When I’m up, I play amazingly with a good mindset, but when I’m down, I tend to crumble more.

KU: Who was your toughest opponent this year, and how did playing them make you a better player?

CR: My toughest opponents this year were all of the people I played against when I played #1 singles. It’s not my normal spot on the lineup, so it was challenging, but it definitely helped my playing when I played #2 singles players.

KU: How did your season go overall? 

CR: Overall, my season didn’t go as well as I wanted it to. My record wasn’t amazing, and I would have preferred to get more wins, but I know I tried my best, and I still have another season.

By Logan Thomas – Entertainment Editor

Brady O’Neil is currently working at his Senior Internship. Advocate Entertainment Editor interviewed O’Neil about his internship.

Logan Thomas: Where are you interning?

Brady O’Neil: I am interning at West Shore Middle School with Mr. Maxwell.

LT: What do you do there?

BO: I watch over the kids in the gym classes and learn how to instruct and lead middle school students. 

LT: How has your internship experience been so far?

BO: I’ve had a ton of fun, and I am learning a lot about being a teacher.

LT: What do you think you’re getting out of this internship?

BO: I think I’m learning how to deal with kids at a much younger age than other future teachers, so I’m definitely at an advantage. 

LT: What’s been the best part of your internship so far?

BO: My favorite part is hanging out with my friends Aidan, Jackson, and Yeiden while on my internship.

By Zach Hyatt – Staff Reporter

Senior David Guery is a captain of the Jonathan Law track team. Advocate Staff Reporter Zach Hyatt interviewed Guery about his track career.

Zach Hyatt: How did it feel to break the school record, and what was going through your mind when you realized you had done it?

David Guery: It felt pretty amazing. It’s a way I can leave my mark on Jonathan Law. I hadn’t realized I’d broken the record until Coach Beler told me while I was jumping.

ZH: Looking back on your performance at the state meet, what are you most proud of?

DG: I’m most proud that I finished my jumps. At the last meet I messed up my popliteus muscles and originally I didn’t know if I was going to be able to compete, but I did and was able to medal in both my events.

ZH: As a senior captain, how did you try to motivate and support your teammates throughout the season?

DG: As a senior captain, I’d try to motivate others by some of the stuff we would do in warm-ups before competing in a track meet. Wven though a lot of people found it corny, I think it worked pretty well.

ZH: What was your favorite memory from your time on the track team, and why does it stand out?

DG: My favorite memory is probably the Freshman Invitational. It was a very enjoyable meet. Or the meet at Foran this year – it had a lot of great energy.

ZH: As you prepare to graduate, what advice would you give to younger athletes who hope to follow in your footsteps?

DG:  If you have a sport you want to do well and succeed, don’t wait until the season to start practicing. In track, for example, a lot of the best kids train year-round, so when the season comes around, it’s easy, and more times than not, they dominate, so make sure to work hard.

By Ryan Woods – Staff Reporter

Senior Brian Gonzalez is going to be a member of the Southern Connecticut State University football team this fall. Advocate Staff Reporter Ryan Woods interviewed Gonzalez about his upcoming season at SCSU.

Ryan Woods: What are your feelings on playing college football next season at SCSU?

Brian Gonzalez: I’m excited and honored to be playing at SCSU. It took a lot of stress and emails to get where I am now, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity to play.

RW: What is the hardest thing to walk away from at Jonathan Law?

BG: The hardest thing to walk away from Law is probably all my friends. I care a lot about them and have made a ton of moments with them especially in high school. 

RW: What do you think is going to be the most challenging thing about playing college football?

BG: I think the most challenging part of college football is going to be responsibilities. You’ll learn all the plays no matter how many, you’ll get stronger and prepared to play, but if you’re not responsible and accountable you’re definitely going to struggle.

RW: What are your goals at SCSU next season?

BG: My goals for the SCSU is to develop into an athlete that consistently grows and can compete with grown men. I have not capped my physical limits yet but I can’t wait to do it properly.

RW: If you could play any position on the field besides your current position, what would it be and why? 

BG: If I were to not play wide receiver I would play linebacker because I’d be a lurk artist.

By Ronnie McCarthy – Staff Reporter

David Lickteig has been a part of Jonathan Law track for four years and the cross country team for three years, earning himself the title of captain for both sports. Staff Reporter Ronnie McCarthy interviewed Lickteig about his years of track.

Ronnie McCarthy: How did you get into track?

David Lickteig: Way back when, in middle school we did all of these running trials for middle school track meets and I ended up doing very well, getting first in my event there. And when I came to high school, I wanted to see just how far I could go.

RM: How is it being a captain in track and cross country? 

DL: Being a captain in cross country and in track were two very different experiences for me. Cross country was a much smaller team but we were a much closer team as a whole. The responsibility as a captain during the cross country season was more personal compared to track. Track was a much larger team so I really had to keep track of my group and speak for them to coach. 

RM: What were some goals you were striving to achieve this season?

DL: My number one personal goal for this season was to get two minutes in the 800M dash. I sadly didn’t end up getting it, but I’m happy with how close I got.

RM: How do you get yourself ready before a race?

DL: I just do our warmup stretches and “get in the zone”

RM: What will you miss the most about track?

DL: I will miss the feeling of getting personal records that you work for weeks trying to get. 

By Joeliz Gonzalez – Staff Reporter

Ms. Jones is the Choir teacher at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Joeliz Gonzalez interviewed Jones about the recent Choir competition trip to Six Flags and about the year overall.

Joeliz Gonzalez: How as a teacher did you prepare yourself and your students for the big competition?

Ms. Jones: To prepare for the competition was a lot of hard work and dedication during class time rehearsal. We even have outside of school rehearsal for the Advanced Vocal Ensemble. But it was really about taking performances, listening to them, reflecting upon them and improving on these specific vocal techniques so the students themselves would listen back and do constructive criticism work in sections and then we tried to put it all together as an ensemble. Well, they responded to cues to make it the best performance possible.

JG: What is your favorite part about being a Choir teacher?

MJ: My favorite part of being a Choir teacher is obviously the students. They bring so much personality energy to make my day better every single day. The music is amazing but its nothing without the students and their personality so watching them flourish and continue to grow as musicians while also giving a piece of themselves is what makes every day so amazing.

JG: What is your favorite part of the big Six Flags trip?

MJ: Without a doubt, my favorite part was watching the students’ faces after they were finished, performing because you could just see the elation and the pride beaming from their souls. They just know all the hard work, dedication and all the turmoil and struggling that we went through to get to that moment. It was just like a final release and being so proud of it paying off so that was definitely the highlight for me.

JG: What was going through your mind when Law came in first place in the competition?

MJ: Competition is such a strange thing for me because making music shouldn’t be about competition making music is about the camaraderie and the unity and the beauty behind the music so it should be about competing with one another, but it really is a great to get feedback from people outside of your small circle so in that moment is it doesn’t what the outcome is it just matters that we feel good about the performance that we put on, but there is also this feeling of angst and you know hope that all that hard work pays off for the students so that they feel really proud of that moment as well and so it was just a combination of already being proud and knowing that we’ve done the best that we possibly can, but also the excitement of I really hope that that pays off in that way for them so it’s just a lot of hoping and anxiety

JG: How do you feel about the seniors leaving this year? 

MJ: It’s almost like rage bait. I think that this is the worst part of my job by far this student’s graduating I feel like it’s rude and if they cared at all, I’d stay forever, but I think it’s bittersweet because anything that is really great. That always makes it so much harder when you lose it and so anything that is painful or because it’s a loss is really just a mindful reminder of how beautiful it was what you had and so they have been amazing. They put in so much time and effort and they’ve helped build the program to stay in the program and bring new life to it in different ways and so I’m so thankful for them. I wish them all the best in their future and I really look forward to reuniting again every year for the meeting. We are blessed.

By Breana Aquino – Staff Reporter

Siya Patil is one of the senior captains of the Jonathan Law girls tennis team. Advocate Staff Reporter Breana Aquino interviewed Patil about the season.

Breana Aquino: How do you think the season fared?

Siya Patil: I think this season went really well, and it was definitely my favorite season so far. We tied the school record for wins, which was a huge accomplishment, especially with such a tough schedule. More importantly, our team grew a lot throughout the season, both as players and as teammates.

BA: As a captain, how have you played a role in helping guide the team?

SP: As a captain, I always tried to make sure everyone felt included and supported. My co-captains and I would give pep talks before matches to help motivate the team and keep everyone focused. We worked hard during practices and matches, but we also made sure to have fun and build a positive team environment.

BA: Were you able to accomplish any goals you had hoped you would this season?

SP: Yes, I was honored to be named All-SCC alongside my doubles partner, Emma Ciccarelli. We had a great season together and accomplished a lot of the goals we set at the beginning of the year. I also worked hard to improve my serve, and it was really rewarding to see that practice pay off during matches.

BA: What has motivated you throughout the season?

SP: Being a captain and a senior motivated me to be a good role model for the younger players on the team. Since it was my last season, I wanted to make the most of every opportunity and help leave the team in a strong position for the future. I also wanted to contribute as much as I could and make my final season memorable.

BA: What will you miss the most about playing with this team?

SP: I’ll miss how close our team is. Over the season, the 16 of us became like a family. We spent so much time together at practices, matches, and team events, and everyone was always there to support each other. The friendships and memories we made are something I’ll never forget.

By Connor Ryan – News Editor 

Aiden Ramos is a junior captain on the Jonathan Law baseball team. Advocate News Editor Connor Ryan interviewed him on the season so far.

Connor Ryan: How did the regular season go?

Aiden Ramos: The first half of the season was a little bit rough, but we figured it out in the second half of the season.

CR: What have been the team’s strong suits this season?

AR: The team’s strong suit is our bonds and friendships with each other. We play very well as a team.

CR: What does the team need to work on for States?

AR: The team needs to work on being confident when it comes to making big plays.

CR: What was your favorite part of the season?

AR: My favorite part of the season is when I hit a homerun on opening day and helped us beat Westhill.

CR: What are you looking forward to for the remainder of the season?

AR: I am looking forward to finishing out the season with the seniors and hopefully making a run in the State Tournament.

By Joey Amaro – Staff Reporter

Junior Elijah Fernandez is a member of the Jonathan Law boys lacrosse team. Advocate Staff Reporter Joey Amaro interviewed Fernandez about Law’s spring season. 

Amaro: What do you like most about lacrosse?

Fernandez: It is a very exciting sport. I play defensive middie and it is a lot of running. It gets intense, especially when you’re guarding someone at the 25 yard line and they’re about to dodge.

JA: When did you start playing and why?

EF: I began playing lacrosse my sophomore year. Honestly, I only decided to play due to it being another contact sport that I can play, my football teammates being interested, and the endurance aspect of the sport.

JA: How did the team’s season go?

EF: This year, our season did not go the greatest, nor as planned, but we made the most of it and I enjoyed every minute of it. 

JA: What were your goals for the season, and did you fulfill them? 

EF: My goals for the season were to improve my lacrosse IQ and feet skill, I did indeed fulfill these goals. 

JA: If you had to play any position besides your current one, what would it be and why? 

EF: If I had to play any position besides midfielder it would have to be long stick midfielder. I enjoy using a long pole, but I don’t really like the aspect of staying on one side of the field at all times. So that is where long stick midfielder comes into play where I would be able to go anywhere on the field, all while using a long pole.

By Gabby Rodriguez – Staff Reporter

It is officially internship season, and senior Cassie Rodriguez is working at Milford Vascular with Dr. Esposito.  Advocate Staff reporter Gabby Rodriguez interviewed Rodriguez about her internship and how this exciting opportunity has impacted her.

Gabby Rodriguez: What originally inspired you to pursue a career in the medical realm, and how has this internship strengthened that goal?

Cassie Rodriguez: I wanted to do something where I could directly help people with their quality of life. This internship has completely locked that in for me. Up until now, medicine was just a cool idea in my head. But being here, seeing the actual hustle of a clinic, and watching patients walk out feeling better than when they walked in

GR: What does a typical day at Milford Vascular look like for you?

CR: It’s definitely fast-paced, and no two days are exactly the same! I get to shadow the medical professionals, observing everything from initial consultations to procedures.

GR: What has been the most surprising or memorable experience you’ve had while working at Milford Vascular?

CR: How much a vascular issue can impact a person’s entire life, and how quickly the team can fix it. Seeing the difference between how a patient walks in with an issue and then seeing how much better they feel when they return for a follow up visit after a procedure.

GR: How has working directly with patients and medical professionals changed your understanding of healthcare?

CR: I’ve learned how important it is to listen to the patients and handle their fears and anxiety. Medicine is more than textbooks and procedures. It’s about connecting with patients and earning their trust.

GR: What have you learned from Dr. Esposito and the clinical team that you think will stay with you throughout your career?

CR: They have taught me about what it takes to run a great practice. They are completely focused and precise when it comes to patient care, but they also maintain this warm, welcoming environment that puts everyone at ease. Seeing their work ethic and community focus will stay with me for my entire career.

By Calder Costantini – Staff Reporter

As the school year comes to a close, students and teachers alike are reflecting on the experiences, challenges, and successes of the past 10 months. Advocate Staff Reporter Calder Costantini interviewed math teacher Mrs. Francisco about her school year.

Calder Costantini: What was the most memorable moment or achievement from this school year for you as a teacher?

Mrs. Francisco: Being able to challenge some of the most talented students I have had in years was exciting and memorable for me this year. 

CC What was the biggest challenge you faced this year, and how did you handle it?

MF: The biggest challenge I faced was trying to balance upperclassmen independence and student support during morning classes. I look forward to reflecting on how to better handle this in the future. 

CC: What is one thing your students taught you this year?

MF: My students taught me there is always room for laughter in math class.

CC: If you could change or improve one thing about this school year, what would it be?

MF: I would have stuck to my routines all year and kept my standards high for students to meet them. They can do hard things and things that they don’t necessarily want to do – and sometimes they just need the push instead of me giving in. 

CC: What advice or message would you give students going into the next school year?

MF: Like Nike says – Just Do It. Do the work, do the project, do the hard things, stop trying to take the easy way out – your future self will thank you. Do it for the future you.

By Eason Dong – Staff Reporter

Mr. McPartland is an assistant coach for the Jonathan Law baseball team. Advocate Staff Reporter Eason Dong interviewed McPartland about the baseball season.

Eason Dong: Looking back on the season, what are you most proud of from your team this year?

Assistant Coach Matthew McPartland: I’m most proud of the growth our players showed over the course of the season, both on and off the field. From day one, we emphasized developing a stronger, more resilient mindset, and the team really bought into that. You could see it in how they handled adversity and competed every day. That mental growth is something that will stick with them far beyond this season.

ED: What was the biggest challenge your team faced, and how did the players respond to it?

MM: Our biggest challenges this season were staying united and maintaining a positive mindset through ups and downs. Like any team, we faced moments of frustration and adversity, but the group worked hard to stick together. The players made a conscious effort to support one another and keep things moving in the right direction. That commitment to staying positive helped us remain competitive throughout the season.

ED: Which players really stepped up as leaders during the season?

MM: Our captains – Jackson Judge, Brady O’Neil, and Aiden Ramos – did an outstanding job leading the team, especially when it came to setting the tone for the younger players. They consistently modeled the work ethic and attitude we expect in our program. At the same time, several younger players stepped up in big moments and delivered when it mattered most. That combination of strong senior leadership and emerging contributors was a big strength for us.

ED: What was your favorite moment or game from this season and why?

MM: Our extra-inning win against North Haven is probably my favorite moment for our team from this season. It was a game where everything came together – our effort, our execution. More importantly, it showed the players that we can compete with anyone on our schedule. That confidence is huge, and it’s something we can carry forward.

ED: As you head into next year, what lessons from this season will help the team improve?

MM: The biggest lesson is the importance of getting better every single day, regardless of the outcome. We’ve talked a lot about focusing on the process and letting the results take care of themselves. When the team commits to consistent effort and improvement, success tends to follow. That mindset will be a key foundation for us moving forward.

By Abigail Merenda – Sports Editor 

Senior Fiorella Gargiulo is currently doing her internship at Prolete Physical Therapy. Advocate Staff Reporter Abigail Merenda interviewed Gargiulo about her internship.  

Abigail Merenda: What made you choose this internship?

Fiorela Gargiulo: I chose this internship because I visited Prolete when I was recovering from an injury during soccer season and realized I was fascinated with physical therapy and what physical therapists do.  

AM: What do you do day to day at your internship? 

FG: Each day, I start at reception doing paperwork, answering the phone, and creating appointments for new and returning patients. When I complete that, I get to spend time with the physical therapists and watch how they interact with patients.

AM: What has been the best part of your internship? 

FG: The best part of my internship has been working with and talking to the physical therapist, learning about their journey and why they do what they do. They treat me like a colleague and are extremely smart.  

AM: Would you recommend this internship? 

FG: I would recommend this internship to quick thinkers and those interested in sports medicine, because the job comes with a lot of problem-solving and working to find the best solution to help patients feel better.

By Evelyn Rossi – Staff Reporter

Senior Lexi Velez has been a member of Choir for all four years of her high school career and has been on the Choir Board as manager for three of those years. Staff Reporter Evelyn Rossi interviewed the Senior Manager about the Choir. 

Evelyn Rossi: What do you think makes a great Choir member besides singing ability?

Lexi Velez: I think what makes a great Choir member is the ability to help others and to be a leader, without being asked. It’s also the ability to take criticism and how you view that to improve your performance and tasks.

ER: What are the biggest challenges of managing Choir?

LV: I would say the hardest thing about managing Choir is being on top of everything, so when someone has a question, I already have the answer, and so I’m two steps ahead. I am the first person most kids go to before asking Ms. Jones a question or when they need advice. Also, when you’re the manager, Jones has that trust for me to act and make decisions without being told. 

ER: How do you help students feel confident during performances?

LV: I always support them on any decisions they make that make THEM comfortable. I also try to be supportive by saying things like “don’t worry, you got this” or “whatever happens, happens; don’t beat yourself up over it.” By saying reassuring comments and compliments, I see how the students look relaxed and confident. 

ER: What has been your favorite Choir performance or memory so far?

LV: My favorite Choir memory or performance is the times I’ve made it to All-State, and I was able to perform for a whole bunch of directors, families, and students from the state with other students I’ve become close with. Then my favorite memory is sleeping over at the Hartford Convention Center for States with my friends. 

ER: What advice would you give to new students thinking about joining Choir? 

LV: An advice I would give a student joining is, don’t be afraid of trying something new. And to never be embarrassed for being yourself because no matter what happens, you’ll always have a home in Jonathan Law Choir. 

By Marina Cosmas – Staff Reporter 

Jackson Judge is a senior captain of the Jonathan Law baseball team. Advocate Staff Reporter Marina Cosmas interviewed Judge about the season so far.

Marina Cosmas: How did it feel to step into the role of captain this season?

Jackson Judge: Stepping up to be a captain felt like it was a necessity to keep the team together and motivated to keep showing up every day and keep moving forward after some unfortunate events during the season. 

MC: How has this season been different from last season?

JJ: This season’s been much more chaotic and unpredictable compared to last year. Losing five starting seniors left a lot of space to fill, and I think the younger guys did a really good job at stepping up and being reliable. 

MC: What has been the main goal this season?

JJ: The main goal, like every year, is to first qualify for States, then after that, to take one game at a time, trying to win as many rounds as we can. 

MC: What has motivated you most through this season?

JJ: What motivated me the most was knowing that this is my last year of high school baseball, going out on the field one day at a time, trying to be as successful as we possibly can. 

MC: What are you going to miss most about baseball? 

JJ: Stepping up to be a captain felt like it was a necessity to keep the team together and motivated to keep showing up every day and keep moving forward. 

By Aislyn McKernan – Social Media Editor-in-Chief 

Members of Law’s Class of 2026 recently started their Senior Internships. Advocate Social Media Editor-in-Chief Aislyn McKernan interviewed senior Lilly Olmstead about her internship.

Aislyn McKernan: Where are you interning?

Lilly Olmstead: I’m interning at John F. Kennedy Elementary School.

AM: What do you do during your internship?

LO: I’m in a kindergarten classroom, and I help students with their work and help them stay on task. 

AM: Why did you choose this internship?

LO: I chose this internship because I plan on being a child psychologist one day, and I can gain experience working with children at the school. 

AM: What is the best part of your internship?

LO: The best part of my internship is creating bonds with the kids and getting to help them learn and have fun.

AM: What do you want to get/are getting out of your internship?

LO: This experience is teaching me how to deal with behavioral issues and helping me understand how children think. 

By Jackson King – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law boys tennis team finished the 2026 season with a 14-6 record, the second-best record in program history, under first-year Head Coach Mr. Zuraw. Advocate Staff Reporter Jackson King interviewed Zuraw about the team’s historic season and his first year leading the program.

Jackson King: What was your biggest goal coming into your first season as head coach? 

Mr. Zuraw: My biggest goal was to continue to build on the success this team has had in the past couple of years. They were moving in the right direction, and I wanted to keep improving on that success.

JK: How does it feel to lead the team to a 14–6 record, which was the second-best record in Jonathan Law history? 

Mr. Zuraw: It feels great. I’m really proud of the way the guys fought hard in every match, and adjusted to having me as their new coach.

JK: What do you think made this team so successful throughout the season? 

Mr. Zuraw: I think our success comes from their willingness to play whatever spot in the lineup I ask and our depth. We have many solid players all throughout our lineup, which makes us a very difficult matchup for a lot of teams that are more top-heavy.

JK: What was your favorite moment or match from this season? 

Mr. Zuraw: There have been so many memorable moments this season (and hopefully a couple more to go). It’s hard to pick one, but sweeping Foran this year has to be near the top. I also really loved our second match with Wilbur Cross where we adjusted our lineup to try to get things to work out in our favor, and it worked out perfectly as we won that match 4-3.

JK: What are your expectations or goals for the future of the program? 

Mr. Zuraw: I hope to develop our younger players so we can continue the success of this season and make Jonathan Law Boys tennis a regular in the playoffs year in and year out.

By Delaney Morrin – Staff Reporter

Senior Christopher Serrano is the President of the Jonathan Law Drama Club, and has been since his junior year. Staff Reporter Delaney Morrin interviewed Serrano about his final year with the Drama Club.

Delaney Morrin: What made you decide to join the JLHS Drama Club?

Christopher Serrano: I have always had a passion for theater. But, when I came to JLHS, I joined the crew for my first year. It wasn’t until my sophomore year that I decided to audition for the drama production of Mean Girls, where I played Damian! I wanted an opportunity to continue growing as a performer while also becoming part of a community that values creativity and teamwork.

DM: How has Drama Club impacted your time at Law?

CS: Drama Club has been one of the most important parts of my high school experience. It helped me build confidence, develop leadership skills, and create friendships that I know will last long after graduation. Some of my favorite memories from high school came from rehearsals, performances, and the time spent working together.

DM: What are some of your most memorable moments being a part of Drama Club?

CS: One of the most memorable moments from Drama Club was when we performed together as a full cast for the first time at the 2025 Halo Awards. Being able to work in a professional space with people I love, while surrounded by others who share the same passion for theater, is something that is truly unmatched. Another memorable moment was our Drama Club dinner at Colony, where we welcomed incoming members and revealed our fall play. Being able to establish relationships with new members helped us create a stronger community and, in the long run, made Drama Club a place of safety, support, and belonging for everyone.

DM: What legacy do you hope to leave behind as President?

CS: I hope to leave behind a club that understands the importance of theater, not only for themselves, but for their school community and everyone who comes to see our performances. Theater, whether through performing or simply watching, should be a safe outlet where people can express themselves, explore new interests, and build meaningful connections. I want the club to remain a place that feels welcoming and supportive to everyone involved. If future members continue to feel like Drama Club is a place where they belong, I’ll consider that a success.

DM: What is something you will miss about being in this club?

CS: More than anything, I’ll miss the people. The friendships, shared experiences, and sense of family within Drama Club are what make it so special. I’ll also miss the excitement of preparing for productions and the feeling of stepping on stage with a cast and crew who have worked so hard together.

By Alexandra Oliveira – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law SAVE Promise Club has brought students together to promote kindness, safety, and unity. Advocate Staff Reporter Alexandra Oliveira interviewed Senior President Sarah McCann about the club.

Alexandra Oliveira: What accomplishment from this year are you most proud of in the club?

Sarah McCann: I’m most proud of the club for their adjustment to a new advisor as well as a new schedule. They all did a great job adapting and I am so grateful for those who stayed through the change.

AO: How do you think the club made a positive impact on the school community this year?

SM: I think more students know who we are, which is great. I also think now that more people know us we are making an even more positive change through all of the fun activities we do.

AO: What challenges did the club face this year and how did you work through them?

SM: Some challenges were school involvement. Sometimes I think it can be hard to get high schoolers to do things especially if they are centered around things like violence and mental health. Nonetheless, our club pushed though and tried to find every way to reach the students.

AO: What advice would you give to future leaders and members of the club?

SM: For the future club leaders I would say to try to reach more than just the school community. I think doing activities with other schools and the community will have a major impact. I also say try and have the most amount of fun you can.

AO: What message would you like to leave with students and staff about the club?

SM: The message I would like to leave is a thank you for allowing me to lead something I am so passionate about and thank you to everyone for being by my side. SAVE is a club that I hope will flourish in our community and I believe it will make such a great difference in how we all see and treat each other.

By Emma Bonanno – Staff Reporter

The State Tournament is beginning soon for the Law softball team and junior Madison Bonanno has been a key part to the team’s success in the circle. Advocate Staff Reporter Emma Bonanno interviewed Bonanno about the successful season.

Emma Bonanno: What has helped you improve the most as a pitcher this season?

Madison Bonanno: Staying focused on the goals we have set as a team and my personal goals. Practicing everyday working on certain pitches and making them better everyday and breaking down simple things in my pitching to make me better.

EB: How do you stay calm during high-pressure situations?

MB: I look around and I know I have people around me in my infield and outfield that I trust. It helps me stay calm and focus on getting the out and getting the batter out.

EB:How does the rest of the team’s success impact your pitching?

MB: Seeing my fielders make all the plays gives me confidence that we’re going to win and that we are all in this together. and seeing everyone put the bat on the ball and score runs helps give me energy and more confidence to finish the game for my team

EB: Why do you think this team has been able to respond so well in difficult situations?

MB:The team has responded to difficult situations by staying together and when we step in between the lines we all play for each other and put everything on the field. 

EB: What are your expectations going into the State Tournament?

MB: Taking it game by game and working as a team and focusing on giving my team the best chance to win as the pitcher.