By Cindy Bone – Staff Reporter

Mr. Healy teaches English and Creative Writing classes to multiple grade levels at Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Cindy Bone interviewed Healy about his school year.

Cindy Bone: How was your school year and is there anything you would like to improve on for next school year?

Mr. Healy: This was a great year. It really comes down to the students. Each class is unique, but it only works if you all bring good energy, and all of my classes were positive, funny, and enjoyable. I would love to improve how I deal with phones, and with Chat-GPT/AI. 

CB: What classes are you teaching next year?

MH: I taught English 2 and Advanced Creative Writing this year. I just learned that there will be no Advanced Creative Writing next year but hopefully we can come back strong in 2025-26. As far as I know, I’ll still be teaching English 2.

CB: What was your highlight of the year?

MH: Definitely publishing our fifth book in Advanced Creative Writing and taking that class to New York City last week. That class and working with young authors will always be special to me. 

CB: Anything in particular you are looking forward to next year?

MH: I love being a teacher because we are the only profession I can think of that gets a huge reset every year. I can look at what I’m doing as a teacher with fresh eyes after a long break and try something new. So each year brings a lot of fun, new possibilities. Also, by the end of next year I’ll have my educational leadership degree, so that’s pretty cool. 

CB: What is one piece of advice you would give to all your students you have had in the past year?

MH: Just be positive. To yourself, to each other, to your family, your friends, etc. Be a good person. Being positive doesn’t mean being delusional or ignoring problems, it’s just a habit you can build. Remind yourself things are not too bad,  things often seem worse than what they are, and our brains are very good at focusing on the negative. So put in practices of positivity in your life. I don’t know, we’re all relatively lucky here at Law. We need to remind ourselves of that. 

By Ryan Nobles – Staff Reporter

Junior Faisal Karzoun is a member of the Law boys outdoor track team. Advocate staff reporter Ryan Nobles interviewed Karzoun about the season.

Ryan Nobles: Which one of your events is your favorite and why?

Faisal Karzoun: My favorite event has to be the 400 meter dash. It’s a fun event that is very entertaining to watch and fun to run. This is my first year running it and I love it so far.

RN: What is it like to be on one of the relay teams?

FK: I think all my relay teammates are great and make track a blast to run.

RN: How does your coach and teammates push you to be better?

FK: Coach Beler really motivates me to work my hardest at every single practice, it has made me a better runner and overall has significantly improved my times and motivation.

RN: How do you feel you did this season and why?

FK: I feel like I did really well and I made new friends and tried new events. It was a great overall season and I will always remember it thanks to the times I had individually and with my teammates and coaches.

RN: What are you hoping and looking forward to for yourself and the team for the next outdoor track season?

FK: I’m looking forward to helping the new people who decided to join the track team, just looking to help in any way. I’m also looking forward to getting better at my events and trying to get the best times that me and my relay teams possibly can.

By Chloe Edmonds – Staff Reporter

Freshman Emily Vella recently took third place in the 4x100M relay at the SCC Championships and made states for the Jonathan Law track team. Advocate Staff Reporter Chloe Edmonds interviewed Vella bout his firat track season.

Chloe Edmonds: What events do you run?

Emily Vella: I run the 4x400M, the 4x100M, the 100M, and the 200M.

CE: What was the biggest challenge you had to overcome this season?

EV: I think the biggest challenge I had was my arms. I worked really hard on fixing my form as a whole all season. 

CE: What have you improved upon the most?

EV: I improved on my form mostly. 

CE: What are you looking to improve on next season?

EV: I really want to work on my starts, especially in blocks since starts are extremely important to a race. 

CE: Whats your biggest accomplishment this season? 

EV: My first accomplishment was third place (in the 4x100M relay) at SCC Championships and my second would be being the top seed for states. 

By Quinn Willett – Social Media Editor 

Members of Law’s Class of 2024 have recently started their senior internships. Advocate Social Media Editor Quinn Willett interviewed Reinaldo DeCarvalho about his internship experience.

Quinn Willett: Where are you doing your internship?

Reinaldo Carvalho: My internship is at the West Haven Fire Department. 

QW: What are your goals to accomplish during your internship?

RC: My goal is to get a little experience on what it is like to actually be a fireman. 

QW: How will your internship help with your after high school plans?

RC: My internship will help with my future plans by giving me a look to see if I really want to become a firefighter or not.

QW: What are you doing during your internship?

RC: During my internship we are assigned to a truck and we go on any injury or fire that the truck I’m assigned to gets. They also teach us some of the basic things on being a firefighter like suiting up and shows us everything in the truck. 

QW: Why did you pick this as your internship?

RC: I chose this as my internship because I hope to be a fireman in the future and a internship at the firehouse will give me some early experience and will be good for me on my resume.

By Alexis Kirby – Staff Reporter

Mr. Sweeney, a Health teacher at Jonathan Law, is preparing for the conclusion of the 2023-2024 school year. Advocate Staff Reporter Alexis Kirby interviewed Sweeney about his year.

Alexis Kirby: What was your favorite lesson of this school year?

Mr. Sweeney: My favorite lesson to teach this year was the growth mindset unit because it’s a huge part of everyone’s live to be positive and develop as a person and it’s used outside of school and in our daily lives.

AK: What was your biggest challenge while navigating through this school year? 

MS: My biggest challenge of the year was trying to navigate the ePass system. Overcoming it was a process but I became more efficient with the system as the year went by. 

AK: How do you make your students feel welcomed into your class?

MS: I listen to concerns, help out when I can, and make sure everyone in heard. When they are slacking I give them a push, every individual in this school is deserving of guidance and support. 

AK: What is your favorite thing about teaching?

MS:  My favorite thing about teaching is the student interaction that come with it. I enjoy conversations and getting to know everyone in between lessons.

AK: What was the most rewarding thing that you received this year?

MS: The most rewarding thing I received this year was the staff shout-outs. It made me happy to be recognized and I appreciate how well our community is here at Law.

By Courtney Russo – Staff Reporter

Like most members of the Class of 2024, senior Hailey Russo is currently doing an internship. Advocate Staff Reporter Courtney Russo interviewed Hailey Russo about her experience so far.

Courtney Russo: Where are you doing your internship? 

Hailey Russo: I’m at West Shore Middle School.

CR: What made you choose this internship? 

HR: I want to be a teacher at a middle or high school when I grow up.

CR: How has it been working hands-on with the kids? 

HR: It’s been interesting. It’s weird looking back and seeing how much has changed from when I was in middle school to now.

CR: What has been the best part so far?

HR: The best part of working with the middle school choir class and getting them to really see their true potential.

CR: What do you hope to gain from this?

HR: I hope to gain teaching techniques and learn the things I would like and not like in my classroom.

By Molly Lynch – Staff Reporter

Sophomore Nadia Nuzzo is a player on Law’s girls lacrosse team. Advocate Staff Reporter Molly Lynch interviewed Nuzzo on her experience on being a part of the team.

Molly Lynch: What do you like most about being on the lacrosse team?

Nadia Nuzzo: My favorite thing about being on the lacrosse team is being able to have a group of people that are always there for me. I love all of our silly little jokes and fun times we have. Our coaches are also so great to have.

ML: What position do you play and how do you impact the team?

NN: I play defense and I think I make a good impact on the team. I’m always there when help is needed whenever, and can easily shake a bad play.

ML: How do your teammates impact you?

NN: My teammates impact me a lot by always being there to make me smile. We have a lot of fun all the time and they’re always supportive.

ML: What is a valuable lesson you learned from being on the team?

NN: The most valuable lesson I have learned from being on this team is to stick together. Like any sport, we need to become one so always having each others backs and being supportive helps us on and off the field.

ML: Why did you decide to join the lacrosse team?

NN: I decided to join the team because I wanted to try out lacrosse. It always looked like a fun sport and I wanted to give it a shot.

By Aislyn McKernan – Staff Reporter

Helen Chizmazia is a senior captain of the Law girls lacrosse team. The team improved its record by four games this season and qualified for States thanks to the leadership of Chizmazia. Advocate Staff Reporter Aislyn McKernan interviewed Chizmazia about the season.

Aislyn McKernan: What was your biggest accomplishment this season?

Helen Chizmazia: Our biggest accomplishment was definitely making states. We weren’t necessarily expecting to make it this year but our grit definitely paid off throughout the season. 

AM: How was it being captain?

HC: My favorite part about playing a sport at Law has always been being a part of a team. Leading the team mostly came from my attitude and willingness to support others.

AM: How do you think Law’s team did this year?

HC:  Overall, we had an excellent season. We beat our last year’s record by four wins so that was definitely a super rewarding feeling. 

AM:  What is your favorite memory of the season?

HC:  We all became super close throughout the season so even practices were something we enjoyed going to every day. 

AM: What is your favorite part about playing lacrosse?

HC: Building new friendships and getting to know my teammates is my favorite part about lacrosse. Luckily, I also love playing the sport because of the intensity and there are always new things to learn about it.

By Isla Concepcion – Staff Reporter

Junior Avery Granger recently finished her CNA class Law, which included completing 60 hours of clinicals. Advocate Staff Reporter Isla Concepcion interviewed Avery Granger about her CNA class. 

Isla Concepcion: What do you think is the most difficult part about clinicals? Why?

Avery Granger: The most difficult part of CNA is seeing people pass away and seeing residents being alone.

IC: Do you plan on pursuing a career CNA in your future?

AG: Yes, I am taking my test in June for me to be a CNA. Once I pass, I plan on working as a CNA while I study nursing in college.

IC: How much have you grown between now and the beginning of the year?

AG: I’ve grown a lot, I’ve learned how to use time management especially for being out every Tuesday for clinicals during a three month span.”

IC: Where do you do your clinicals?

AG: I do my clinicals at Civita at West River. They have long term, short term care, a rehabilitation center, and they do hospice.

IC: What are clinicals like?

AG: In the beginning of clinical, I give out meal trays for breakfast, and I assist any residents that need help eating. After that I’ll give out water and change any unoccupied beds. After that, I’ll wash residents and get them out of bed if they aren’t already. Then around that time it’s lunchtime and I give out meal trays and assist them with eating and then I leave.”

By Charlotte Rascoll – Staff Reporter

This year, a new club was introduced to Law with the goal of raising awareness for teen dating violence – the Courage Club. Junior Lily Baird is President of the club and put lots of her time and effort throughout the school year into making it successful. Staff reporter Charlotte Rascoll interviewed Baird about the year with the club.

Charlotte Rascoll:  In your opinion, how did the first year of Courage Club go?

Lily Baird: It was a great first year for the club and I’m really proud of what we were able to accomplish.

CR: What is the main goal of the Courage Club?

LB: The teens for Courage Club aims to raise awareness in the Law community surrounding relationship violence and emphasize warning signs to look for. Our motto is “stop the violence before it begins.”

CR: What events or activities did the club plan this year?

LB: This year we held a week of awareness in honor of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month during February. We also collaborated with the SAVE Promise Club to raise awareness for National Youth Violence Prevention last month. The club also organized a sock and underwear drive during winter time and all donations were made to the local foster care center.

CR: Were you successful in achieving the goals you had for the club this year?

LB: I believe it was a very successful year as we have just over 30 members, all who actively participate in activities and events, and continue to spread our message.

CR: What are you looking forward to next year for the club?

LB: The club is very excited for next school year, as we are currently planning an informative school assembly. We also hope to eventually interact with other Courage Clubs as well as grow the club as a whole.

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief

Mady Bull, a junior on the Law softball team, recently recorded her 100th career hit at Law in just three seasons. The following game, Bull also recorded her 500th career strikeout at Law, another huge achievement in just three seasons. Advocate Editor-In-Chief Ella Franzman interviewed Bull about her accomplishments.

Ella Franzman: What was the feeling of getting your 100th hit like? 

Mady Bull: I want to get a hit every time I am up, so I really don’t think about the number; but I am very excited to have accomplished this in my junior year. 

EF: How did it feel to get your 500th career strikeout?

MB: It was super exciting to be able to hit this milestone especially in three years. It’s also exciting because I was able to hit two big goals in back to back games. 

EF: How did your teammates, family and friends help you achieve this goal?

MB: I think having support from everyone is very important in this game. This game is set up for failure.  So knowing that people have your back is vital in anyone’s success. 

EF: What is your favorite part about playing softball?

MB: My favorite part of playing softball is even when you are not at 100%, through hard work mentally and physically, you can get right back into it.

EF: What are your future hopes for playing softball after high school? 

MB: I plan on playing softball in college and making a definite impact wherever I go. I still have my senior year of high school which I want to focus on, because I feel there are a lot of things I still want to accomplish. 

By Madi Black – Staff Reporter

The 2024 Senior Prom and Post Prom took place on Saturday, May 11. Law parent Julie DeProfio was on the Post Prom Committee which helped organize fundraisers and set up beautiful decorations for Post Prom. Advocate Staff Reporter Madi Black interviewed DeProfio about the event.

Madi Black: What were some of the events that you had set up at the Shelton Sports Center for Post Prom? What was your favorite?

Julie DeProfio: We had so many events for the kids – ice skating, arcade games, laser tag, mini golf, driving range and bowling. My favorite was mini golf. I loved watching the kids compete against each other and having fun.

MB: What were some of the raffle items? How did you fundraise money for them?

JD: We had a multitude of raffle prizes including TVs, laptop computers, iPad, Apple watches, a Segway scooter and so much more. We held many fundraisers for the event – Back to School Social, Comedy Night, Yankee Ticket Raffle, Mixed Bags sale and the Sip & Social.  All were great events for the parents and members of the community to come out and help raise money for a safe event for our students.  We also received many generous donations from businesses in the Milford community.

MB:  How was it to see all of the kids having fun? Did the adults join in by playing any games?

JD: It was so awesome to see the kids having so much fun. All the hard work of the Post Prom Committee paid off.  It gave us all great satisfaction that we had worked so hard to make a fun safe event for our kids and that they enjoyed it so much. So many kids on the way out were thanking us for our hard work and telling us how much fun they had. That made it all worth it.

MD: How many people showed up to help?

JD: We had a committee of eight moms that planned all the fundraisers.  We had a great time working together. We also had a bunch of families volunteer for the fundraising events and come out to help. 

MB: What were some of your favorite decorations that were set up?

JD: Our decorations committee was amazing!  They printed all the senior photos and hung them in the lobby of the Sports Center. It was a great way for the kids to come in and see themselves represented as members of the senior class. That was a huge hit and my favorite decoration.

By Ava Grippo – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Scarpa has been a school counselor at Jonathan Law for 16 years. Advocate Staff Reporter Ava Grippo interviewed Scarpa about her career and the past school year. 

Ava Grippo: What made you want to become a school counselor? 

Mrs. Scarpa: After I graduated from college, I was working for the Yale Child Study Center as a research assistant.  It was during that time that I decided that I wanted to go into school counseling so I could be an advocate for students.

AG: What is your favorite part about being a school counselor? 

MS: After I graduated from college, I was working for the Yale Child Study Center as a Research Assistant.  It was during that time that I decided that I wanted to go into school counseling so I could be an advocate for students.

AG:  What do you think you did best this year when it came to helping students?

MS: I think this is hard to answer but I try to create a welcoming space for all students.

AG: Do you think school counseling has improved over the years?

MS: The mindset around school counseling has changed drastically since I was in school or your parents were in school.  Many years ago, people felt like their “guidance counselor” would not be supportive of their long term goals and “guidance counselors” really focused on just post high school planning.  Since then, school counseling has changed to have a focus on mental health in addition to academics and post high school planning. 

AG: What are you most looking forward to as the school year comes to an end? 

MS: I love the end-of-year activities every school year.  After a year of everyone working hard, it is so nice to be able to celebrate students through activities like the honors breakfast, awards night, dances and senior class activities.

By Fiorella Gargiulo – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Francisco teaches math to various grades at Law along with being the girls soccer head coach. This is her sixth year teaching at Law and she has made a big impact on the school’s community, including leading the girls soccer team to SCCs and States in the fall. Advocate Staff Reporter Fiorella Gargiulo interviewed Francisco about the school year at Law.

Fiorella Gargiulo: How do you think this school year went?

Mrs. Francisco: This school year flew by. Looking back, soccer season felt like forever ago but strangely also just yesterday. 

FG: How was this year as a math teacher and soccer coach?

MF: Being a math teacher and soccer coach is busy but FUN! I love being able to start the school year with my soccer players, they always put me in a good mood at the end of the day. My math classes this year challenged me in good ways. They kept me on my toes to try to keep them engaged and have interesting lessons. Most classes were super friendly and I loved getting to know them as humans as well as math students. 

FG: How was the Senior Prom?

MF: The senior prom was a success! The seniors were on the dance floor all night, took a bunch of photos in the photo booth, looked FABULOUS, and seemed to have a great night. 

FG: What makes the Class of 2024 special?

MF: The Class of 2024 has so much personality. There are standouts at every event – students getting into Ivy League schools, going to play their sport at the collegiate level, their creativity is evident in the hallways and at performances and we are excited to see their name in lights. There are also so many students who we have seen mature over the last four years, overcome trauma over the last four years, keep a smile on their face over the last four years, and just light up the hallways over the last four years. They are a special class and we will hate to see them go. 

FG: What are you looking forward to next year?

MF: I am definitely looking forward to next soccer season. I have high expectations that I know my team can meet. I am also excited to teach a few new classes next year and accept new challenges with my new students. 

By Cesar Mendez – Sports Editor 

Members of Law’s Class of 2024 have recently started their senior internships. Advocate Sports Editor Cesar Mendez interviewed JT Nelly about his internship experience. 

Cesar Mendez: Where are you doing your your internship?

JT Nelly: My internship is at Stonebridge Restaurant in downtown Milford.

CM: Who are the people you work with?

JN: I work with Phil Conine and Brandon and Jon who are all my managers.

CM: What are some of the things you do?

JN: I am interning as a manager so I am learning a lot of things that a manager does in a typical day.

CM: What do you hope to gain from this experience?

JN: I hope to learn leadership abilities as well as general knowledge of how to manage and lead others

CM: What has been the best part about interning so far?

JN: The best part of interning so far has been the double meals at Stonebridge.

By Avery Moulton – Staff Reporter

Sophia Scarpa is a sophomore and the starting catcher on the Jonathan Law softball team. The team is finishing up the regular season and looking forward to playing in SCCs and States. Advocate Staff Reporter Avery Moulton interviewed Scarpa about the season.

Avery Moulton: How is the regular season going for the softball team this year?

Sophia Scarpa: The regular season has been pretty well. We had a bit of a rough start but we have leveled off and we are playing our best game right now.

AM: What goals did you have?

SS: My goal is to beat Cheshire and Amity in SCCs and make it back to the State Championship again this year.

AM: How are you preparing for the upcoming States and SCC games?

SS: With States and SCCs coming up, it’s so exciting but we as a team have been working hard in preparing for the game. We have been working on really strengthening our bond within the program and I hope that the team reciprocates the trust I put in them. I myself have been working on my physical strength and strengthening myself not only physically, but mentally as well.

AM: How has the season been different from last year?

SS: This past year, we lost four starters on our field. They had a huge role on and off the field and so when they left, we had big shoes to fill. Our freshman Julia Scibek and Lily Stankevich did not disappoint on offense or defense. Junior Madison Bull has been pushing through a tough season and I am proud to see what she has achieved through her hard work. Even though we lost many, we have worked and are just as strong as last year. 

AM: What is your favorite part about playing for the Law softball team?

SS: My favorite part of Law softball is the competitiveness. Everyone works so hard and it shows when we have the opportunity to play good teams and challenge our ability. I love working with the mental pieces of the game and that’s how the competition gets so much better. 

By Yeiden Nieves – Staff Reporter

Jack Lefevre, a sophomore on the Jonathan Law football team, is currently preparing for his junior season. After transferring in from Platt Tech, Lefevre helped the Law varsity football team get to a 4-6 record. Staff reporter Yeiden Nieves interviewed Lefevre about the upcoming football season.

Yeiden Nieves: What are your goals for this upcoming football season?

Jack Lefevre: My goals are to bring Law to the playoffs again and overall help the team have a good season next year.

YN: What are steps that you and the rest of the team have been taking to work towards your goals?

JL: The steps we have to take are being frequent and persistent in the weight room and making sure were focused on school and our grades. Getting stronger and putting on weight is going to be a major factor on our performance next year.

YN: How is the loss of the this year’s seniors going to affect the team this upcoming season?

JL: The losses of some of our seniors and captains will definitely hurt and we are losing a ton of leadership. This is only gonna force our young guys to step up and take charge in place of everyone we are losing. 

YN: What are you most looking forward to this upcoming football season?

JL: I’m looking forward to the thrill of running out the locker room down the hill for games and having fun with all my teammates again. 

YN: Do you have any personal goals for this upcoming season?

JL: My personal goals are to be the best teammate I can possibly be and to be looked at as a role model for our young guys similar to how the seniors were to me.

By Michael Smith – Staff Reporter

Junior Cam Upchurch recently competed in his first outdoor track season. Advocate Staff Reporter Michael Smith interviewed Upchurch about his experience.

Michael Smith: How was your first on the track team?

Cam Upchurch: I felt great in my first year as a member of the track team. It has been a lot of fun.

MS: How do you feel you have grown since the season started?

CU: Since the season started ,I’ve grown a lot because I learned the right way to run, high jump, and made new friends on the team.

MS: What are your achievements so far this season?

CU: My achievements so far this season are medaling at both O’Grady Relays and SCC Sectionals for high jump. I qualified for States in four events: 100M, 200M, 4x100M relay and high jump. 

MS: Have you set any goals for the rest of the season or for next year?

CU: For the rest of the season, my goals are to medal again for high jump at SCC Championships and States, lower our 4x100M time and to make finals for 100M at States. For next year, my goal is to break the school record for high jump which is 6 ‘5″. I am at 6’ 2″.

MS: What do you see yourself improving on from here on out?

CU: From here on out, I see myself improving in all my events. 

By Julia Ryan – Staff Reporter

Ella Franzman is a Junior on the varsity softball team at Jonathan Law. The team currently holds a record of 12-7 and is preparing for the upcoming SCC and State tournaments. Advocate Staff Reporter Julia Ryan interviewed Franzman about the season.

Julia Ryan: How has the team adjusted with the addition of new members and loss of last year’s seniors?

Ella Franzman: The team has been adjusting very well with the addition of new members. We lost four starters this year so that was our main goal was to fill in those positions, and the freshmen have been able to do that. We have all been playing our hardest and doing everything to get to the final championship game for SCCs and again for states. 

JR: How did you prepare in the offseason?

EF: In the offseason, we played in a fall ball league playing some other teams in the SCC. We also had winter hitting which was great to get everyone’s bats going and for everyone to get familiar with each other. We all worked super hard in the offseason so that as soon as the regular season started up we would be prepared and we would all be ready to get to work. 

JR: What are the team’s plans going into the postseason?

EF: Our plans going into the postseason are the same expectations that we have had all season, win. Except this time there is a bigger risk because if we lose we go home. So we will be working just as hard if not harder during practice to fix any mistakes and any areas that need more practice. 

JR: What are your goals and aspirations as a softball player?

EF: As a softball player my goals and aspirations are to continue to improve my skills, be a good team player and help my team to the wins. I also always work to be a leader whether it’s on the field or off the field.

JR: What is your favorite part of being a part of the Law softball team?

EF: I would say my favorite part of being a member of the Law softball team is the friendships that are created from the team. Also the energy that is created during games, in the dugout is just so fun to be a part of. Everyone is cheering for each other and we are all able to create a very important part of the game. 

By Haley Stroffolino – Social Media Editor

Jaxson Smith is one of many members of the Class of 2024 who recently began their senior internships. Advocate Social Media Editor Haley Stroffolino interviewed Smith about his internship experience thus far.

Haley Stroffolino: Where are you interning?

Jaxson Smith: I am interning at Ultra Clean Air out of Milford.

HS: What do you do there?

JS: I am one of the technicians and I service HVAC units, clean, sanitize, as well as perform mold and air quality tests in houses, and then from there, work on the remediations that are usually the big part of the jobs. 

HS: How has your internship experience been so far?

JS: My internship experience has been great. Not only have I learned a lot but also learned communication with customers and the sales end of the type of work they do. 

HS: What do you think you will get out of you internship?

JS: I am learning how to run a business and how a business need to succeed by needing the right equipment and guys to help manage 

HS: What’s been the best part so far about your internship?

JS: Having a fun and good crew to work with. Also being able to work with one of my buddies is a plus.

By Harry Fisher – Sports Editor

Ever year during the month of May, the seniors at Jonathan Law go out into the community to participate in a senior internship experience. These students are looking to gain some professional learning around meaningful work related to their field of study or career choice. These internships give Law seniors a chance to connect with the community and learn new skills that will benefit them in the future. Senior Zach Sulkis has secured an internship at the Fighting Arts Academy where he can develop some skills around his love of the sports world. In the fall, Sulkis will attend Norwich University in Vermont where he will wrestle and minor in Sports Management. Advocate Sports Editor Harry Fisher interviewed Sulkis about his internship experience so far.

Harry Fisher: Where will you be doing your senior internship?

Zack Sulkis: I am interning at the Fighting Arts Academy in Milford owned by Nick Newell, a Law alumni and world-famous MMA fighter. I am getting some experience in the sports management field.

HF: How do you think your senior internship will help you with college?

ZS: I think my internship will help with college because I am planning to minor in Sports Management and also have the opportunity for on campus sports management-related jobs that I am willing to look into to make some spare cash.

HF: What are your goals to accomplish during your internship

ZS: My goals are to make sure everything I get the most our of this internship experience,.I would like to create a lasting impact on the 150 hours I’m required. My goal already beginning to happen. One of things I have been asked to do is to make a YouTube channel to show wrestling and jiu-jitsu move tutorials to daily activities going on.

HF: What do you thing your internship will help you learn about working at the fighting arts?

ZS: I think it will help me learn about how to run a fitness-related business effectively and in a way that has people traveling from all over the state wanting to come and train.

HF: Is sports management something you are interested in doing after college?

ZS: I was planning on minoring in it anyways in college, so it’s something that I would like to mix with Communications. That’s going to be my major and I also just love the idea of my life being surrounded by sports like it is right now.

By Isla Concepcion – Staff Reporter

Andrea Crump is a sophomore on the Law girls track team. She qualified for states in the 4x100M relay, the 200M, and 100M. Advocate Staff Reporter Isla Concepcion interviewed Crump about the track season.

Isla Concepcion: What meet are you most excited for the rest of the season?

Andrea Crump: The meet I’m most excited for is states.

IC: Do you have any individual goals for the rest of this season? 

AC: Yes, the goal for this season is to make Nationals for our 4×100 team.

IC: How is running this year different than last year?

AC: Running is not really any different maybe just being a lil faster than last year or just about the same.”

IC: Do you have any tips for someone who wants to get into track?

AC: Some tips for someone who wants to get into track are don’t lose motivation because someone may be faster then you. Just focus on your self and getting better practice by practice.

IC: What is the most challenging part or track and why?

AC: I don’t feel there’s is much of a challenge. The only thing I could say is to push yourself to do better every meet or even in practice to PR (personal record) your next meet or race.

By Ava Vercellone – Staff Reporter 

Sofia Eckert is a freshman member of the Law girls track team who recently qualified for SCCs in the long jump. Advocate Staff Reporter Ava Vercellone interviewed Eckert about her first track season.

Ava Vercellone: What made you interested in and how did you decide to join the track team? 

Sofia Eckert: I initially was interested in track and decided to join because of my friends, but I started the long jump because that was the event my father participated in when he was in high school.

AV: How did you feel when you found out you made SCCs? 

SE: I was very shocked when I found out I made SCCs. I’m honestly super nervous as well as excited. 

AV: How is the track season going overall? 

SE: The track season is going well. I tried a variety of events and I’m learning to take constructive criticism better. My friends have been a huge help in keeping my head and confidence high. 

AV: What are your goals and aspirations for the upcoming seasons? 

SE: My goals and aspirations for the upcoming seasons are to make states and SCCs again.

AV: How are you preparing for SCCs? 

SE: I have been preparing for SCCs by training with my dad and taking tips from him. 

By Will Smith – Entertainment Editor

Members of Law’s Class of 2024 have started their internships. Advocate Entertainment Editor Will Smith interviewed William Luxeder about his internship experience at FAA (Fighting Arts Academy). 

Will Smith: Where are you interning?

William Luxeder: I’m interning at Fighting Arts Academy in Milford.

WS: What do you do there?

WL: I help out with cleaning, setting up for classes, helping customer, and retail.

WS: How has your internship experience been so far?

WL: So far I’ve been loving it

WS: What do you think you will get out of the internship?

WL: I think I’ll leave with having a greater appreciation for how small businesses operate and having knowledge about how all the different areas operate.

WS: What’s been the best part so far about your internship? 

WL: The best part has been meeting and interacting with customers and understanding why they picked up and what they do.

By Alexis Kirby and Emma Johnson – Staff Reporters

Sarah Bagdasarian, a senior at Jonathan Law, has her last day at Law next week. Like many seniors, she decided to take on a student internship at Pantochino Productions for the final month of the year. Advocate Staff Reporters Alexis Kirby and Emma Johnson interviewed Bagdasarian about the experience.

Alexis Kirby: What were the most stressful things you experienced about your internship planning?

Sarah Bagdasarian: The stressful part that I experienced about the planning for the internship is that I only applied to one and they said no so I had to find a whole new internship 10 days before the deadline. 

Emma Johnson: What was the most valuable skill you learned?

SB: The most valuable skill I learned during the process is putting myself out there and learning not to save things for the last minute. 

AK: How will the internship prepare you for your career? 

SB: The internship will prepare me for my career because the experience of being with two different directors and other actors will help me grow to be better in my career. 

EJ:  What advice do you have for interns and upcoming seniors?

SB: The advice I’ll give for interns and upcoming seniors is not to save things for the last minute and if you need help just ask. There is so much support here at law, and so many resources that students should use.

AK: Would you recommend this internship experience?

SB: I would recommend this internship experience because it gives you more of an opportunity to make sure that you are set on your career path. Many people change their interests, and internships are a great way to picture the future of that career. 

By Jordyn Torres – Staff Reporter

Law sophomore Kenzie Forsythe transferred from Foran and is now on the Law varsity girls lacrosse team. Advocate Staff Reporter Jordyn Torres interviewed Forsythe about her spring lacrosse season.

Jordyn Torres: What are you most looking forward to the rest of this season?

Kenzie Forsythe: This season, I went in really excited to meet new people and fix all the weaknesses I had on the field from the last season.

JT: What are you looking to improve on the rest of the season?

KF: This season, I think as a team overall we were looking to get our record higher, but for myself I wanted to improve on different aspects of defense.

JT: What do you think your team does the best?

KF: I think our team is good at helping each other. Someone is always going to be there to help you out regardless of the rough circumstances you can be experiencing on and off the field.

JT: How is Law’s lacrosse team different from other teams you’ve been on?

KF: This team is definitely smaller and there’s not a huge divide between jv and varsity so it’s nice to be able to talk to everyone since we all are always together.

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief 

Chloe Konareski, a junior on the girls lacrosse team at Jonathan Law recently scored her 100th goal. The team has played four games so far this season and in those four games she’s already scored seven goals to get to 100. Advocate Editor-In-Chief Ella Franzman interviewed Konareski about her accomplishment.

Ella Franzman: What was the feeling of scoring your 100th goal like?

Chloe Konareski: Scoring my 100th was super exciting. It was super cool to see everyone supporting me and it was an awesome experience that reflected the hard work I’ve put in over all the years

EF: How did your teammates, family and friends help you achieve this goal?

CK: My teammates, family and friends helped me achieve this goal by supporting me through all my years of playing lacrosse and pushing me to be the best I can be. 

EF: What is your favorite part about playing lacrosse? 

CK: My favorite part about playing lacrosse is how fast paced the game is and how it showcases my athleticism. 

EF: What are some other goals you hope to achieve in your last two seasons at Law?

CK: Some other goals I hope to achieve in my last two seasons at Law are to make it to states with my team, and hopefully get recognized as an All-SCC girls lacrosse player. 

EF: What are your future hopes for playing lacrosse after high school? 

CK: My future hope for after high school is to play at the collegiate level pursuing my goals and being able to continue playing the sport I love. 

By Haley Stroffolino – Social Media Editor

Grace Hess is a senior captain for the Law softball team which has started the season with four straight wins. Advocate Social Media Editor Haley Stroffolino interviewed Hess about the spring season.

Haley Stroffolino: What are you most looking forward to this season? 

Grace Hess: I’m looking forward to this season the most is definitely senior night and the post season especially states!

HS: What are your goals for this year’s season? What do you want to achieve with the team? 

GH: My goals for this year’s season is to just give a 100% and make the underclassmen feel welcomed and a part of the team and to be a good captain and just be there for everyone. For the team I want us to make the championship again and win it this time.

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

GH: The team dynamics is that we are all close and everyone on the team is friends with one another. We work together by always being there for each other and always helping each other out and making everyone better overall.

HS: How has playing softball for four years influenced your personal growth and skill development? 

GH: Playing softball for four years has influenced my personal growth and development and it helped me come out of my shell. Like freshman year I was kind of shy and didn’t talk much. Now I embrace talking a lot and just growing to who I am as a person in general.

HS: Do you have any advice for someone who wants to balance playing a sport and studying nursing?

GH: My advice for someone who’s trying to balance a sport and studying nursing is to never procrastinate. Always do your work when you get it. It may seem a lot but it will pay off in the end and you have to keep going.

By Emma Johnson and Alexis Kirby – Staff Reporters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Alexis Kirby and Emma Johnson – Staff Reporters

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

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

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

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

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

AK: What is your biggest accomplishment from this season?

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

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

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

AK: How do you balance schoolwork and cheerleading commitments?

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

By Isla Concepcion – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Evans is the advisor for Jonathan Law’s Multicultural Club. She is also a freshman English teacher at Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Isla Concepcion interviewed Evans about the club’s upcoming plans.

Isla Concepcion: What is the most rewarding aspect being the advisor of Multicultural Club?

Mrs. Evans: I’m enjoying being the advisor to the Multicultural Club because it gives me the opportunity to get to know more Jonathan Law students, ones I don’t see in my classes daily. 

IC: What is your favorite memory of the club this year?

ME: I enjoy the meetings when students and I just talk – about our lives, our families, our backgrounds, cultures, likes/dislikes, etc. When it is casual and informal, I find students open up quite readily. That has been rewarding for me. 

IC: What is the most interesting aspect of the Multicultural Club?

ME: The Multicultural Club is a group of self-motivated students who want to learn from one another. I think that’s what learning is all about. 

IC: What is one piece of advice you have for freshmen joining Multicultural Club?

ME: Advice for freshmen? Hmm…a club like ours is for everyone. No one group or demographic is focused on…everyone is. Students share what’s important to them and, naturally, we all learn how to become better listeners and more empathetic humans.

IC: What do club members do at weekly meetings? 

ME: Our meetings are once a week in my room (Room 197) and we just talk, or plan for future events, or present information about our own backgrounds.

By Zack Sulkis – Social Media Editor-In-Chief

Hunter Griffin and Samuel Strate are two of the three hockey captains on the Milford Mariners, the Milford boys hockey co-op high school team. Advocate Social Media Editor-In-Chief Zack Sulkis interviewed both of them about this season.

Zack Sulkis: What are you most looking forward to this season?

Hunter Griffin: What I am looking forward to this season is to have a much better season then last year and win more games.

Samuel Strate: I’m looking forward to rebuilding the culture, rekindling Milford’s love for hockey, and, most importantly, winning.

ZS: What are you looking to improve upon from last season?

HG: I feel like this season will definitely be better because the team has a lot more depth with the new players that have joined us this year.

SS: It’s no secret that the last couple seasons have not gone the way we planned. Not only was it reflected by the scoreboard, but the overall bond of the team. With the new coaching staff and team leadership, I believe we’re going to be able to take large steps to creating better chemistry and on ice success.

ZS: What do you feel the team does best?

HG: I feel that even though we are a co-op team between three different Milford high schools, we are still able to bond really well with each other. 

SS: Our team has some really fast, proficient, skaters. There’s a bunch of guys who can really rip the puck too.

ZS: What are your duties as captains?

HG: My duties as a captain include bringing the team up when they’re down after something goes wrong, making sure all the kids on the team feel included and happy, getting everybody ready for games and bringing up the energy, and helping every kid on the team be a better person and player.

SS: As captain, my main responsibility is not only to lead our team to a successful season, but create a welcoming environment for our players and to promote team chemistry. I ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and mitigate any potential conflict or issues. I also act as a land line between the coaches/officials and the players on my team. As long as I am able to uphold this standard, I am happy with my role as a captain.

By Alexia Poloski – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Evans teaches freshman, sophomore, and senior year English classes this year – her first year at Law. Evans is always eager to help and encourage students to do their best work. Advocate Staff Reporter Alexia Poloski interviewed Evans about her career as an English teahcer.

Alexia Poloski: What made you want to be a teacher?

Mrs. Evans: During my senior year in college, I was hanging out with two of my friends who were in the School of Education at Boston College. As an English major, I was in the School of Arts & Sciences. I found that I appreciated their assignments more than they did and spent hours with them working on their final projects. This confirmed something I had thought about since sixth grade when I had Ms. Donovan as my English teacher. I think she was one of the first people to compliment my performance in English class. This, clearly, came at a pivotal time in my life. I didn’t know it at the time, but I wanted to replicate that: encourage students to see themselves as capable and worthy. 

AP: Why do you think it is really important for teachers to care about their students ?

ME: I don’t think I fully understand the question. Of course we have to care about you. Authentically caring about our students is the most essential facet of teaching. That’s the only way students learn…if they know their teachers care about them. I want my students to know that I deeply care about them, their well-being, their passions, their day-to-day lives, their beliefs, their families, their outside-of-school worlds. If they respect me, we can learn and grow together. 

AP: What do you enjoy about being an English teacher?

ME: Can I be just a little lame for a minute and tell you I enjoy everything about being an English teacher (yes, even the grading)? Teaching English, in particular, provides teachers with an avenue to get to know their students quite well. Students express themselves verbally and in writing and we have infinite resources to teach with. What I mean is we can read everything and talk about everything. Students can agree, disagree, argue, and learn from each other. It’s super fun for me to watch my students grow as thinkers as the year progresses. 

AP: How do you motivate students to do their best?

ME: Motivating students – when they have countless other things they’d rather be doing – has gotten more difficult but I think all students, all people for that matter, want to be seen and heard. So, I do just that: I see them and I hear them. I try to acquiesce to their needs and give them the space they need to become more thoughtful readers, writers, thinkers, and humans. 

AP: Your students say that you make learning really fun. What inspires and motivates you to do that?

ME: Hmm…how do I make learning fun and what inspires me to do that? That one is easy, I think. You do. My students inspire me every day. I think society underestimates young people. In many ways, I find teenagers more intriguing and insightful than some adults even. I think it has something to do with youth and hope. I stay motivated because students are most deserving…deserving of teachers who truly care about them. And here at Jonathan Law it is clear that teachers truly care about students. 

By Chase Sisto – Staff Reporter

Senior Ben Girandola has been wrestling almost his whole life. Girandola has been a staple for the Law wrestling team and was recently named captain of the 2023-2024 season due to his leadership skills and athletic capabilities. This is Girandola’s last year wrestling so he plans on making it count. Advocate Staff Reporter Chase Sisto interviewed Girandola about the upcoming season.

Chase Sisto: What are your expectations for the upcoming wrestling season?

Ben Girandoal: I think we will win most of our meets because we finally have a full lineup and a bunch of good kids.

CS: What responsibilities do you have now that you are captain?

BG: I have to set a good example in practice – no slacking off while encouraging others to push themselves and be the best version of themselves.

CS: What makes the wrestling program differ from other athletic programs at Law?

BG: The wrestling team is arguably one of the most well-conditioned teams at Jonathan Law. The mental fortitude it takes to keep showing up and pushing yourself in practice is not common or easy, therefore many people drop out.

CS: What achievements are you most proud of from last year?

BG: Each year, my proudest achievement is just sticking with it. I think about quitting often and would much rather be spending my time snowboarding and hanging out with friends but the fulfillment in helping and watching my peers and younger classmates grow is much more worthwhile.

CS: What are some personal goals you have set for this upcoming year?

BG: My goal this year is just not to lose. I wrestled at a club and gained a lot more strength so I feel a lot more confident for this season.

By Cesar Mendez – Sports Editor

Quinn Willett is one of the leaders of the of the Jewish Student Union and started a toy drive fundraiser. Sports Editor Cesar Mendez interviewed Willett about the fundraiser.

Cesar Mendez: When and where is the toy drive being held? 

Quinn Willett: The toy drive is being held at the Beth-El shelter in Milford and ends December 15th which is the last night of Hanukkah. 

CM: Why did you decide a toy drive?

QW: I chose to do a toy drive because I wanted to help a community near me. Not all kids are fortunate enough to get toys this holiday season so I want to try my very best to help the kids who can’t. 

CM: Who are you looking to target for this drive?

QW: I’m looking to target Jewish kids of all ages who may be in need or not as fortunate as everyone else. 

CM: What other activities does the JSU have planned?

QW: JSU was started a little over a month and a half ago and so far we’ve been doing every-other weekly meetings. We’ve done a few activities like learning about kosher food, Jewish traditions, and next we are learning about Hanukkah.

CM: What was your favorite part about starting the JSU?

QW: My favorite part about starting the JSU is to have a community at the school I go to that I can belong to. It’s very nice to have a group of people at your school you can bond with over something and also share Jewish culture with those who don’t know. 

By Ryan Nobles – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s boys basketball season is approaching. Junior Cameron Upchurch made the varsity basketball team when he was just a freshman and will be a key returning player on this year’s squad. Advocate staff reporter Ryan Nobles interviewed Upchurch about the season.

Ryan Noble: How are you planning to step up this season?

Cam Upchurch: I plan to step up this season with more of a leadership role because of all the seniors we lost.

RN: Who will be your hardest opponent and why?

CU: Our hardest opponent this season is going to be Hillhouse. We played them last season, winning out of three games against them. They are returning three starters. 

RN: What does it take to be a leader on the team?

CU: To be a leader on the team it takes communication, confidence, accountability, and being able to listen and learn.

RN: What are you most excited about this upcoming season?

CU:This season I am most excited about winning games.

RN: What role do you see yourself playing in the development of newer or younger players?

CU: The role I see myself in with developing newer/younger players is being a leader to them and helping teaching or explain things to them.

By Bobby Black – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s National Honor Society is sponsoring the annual Giving Tree which helps provide gifts to children in need. Advocate Sports Editor Bobby Black interviewed senior National Honor Society treasurer Maya Markowitz about the holiday fundraiser.

Bobby Black: What is the Giving Tree?

Maya Markowitz: The Giving Tree is a tree located in the main lobby area. It has gift requests from children of Bridges Healthcare hanging on the branches so that each donor can directly donate to the child. 

BB: What communities are being helped from the National Honor Society by doing the Giving Tree?

MM: Bridges Healthcare has a program that works with children and families. They provide mental health and support services to those in need. 

BB: Why do you think projects like these are important?

MM: Projects like this are really important in the Law community because it allows students to become hands-on with community service. 

BB: How can students support the Giving Tree?

MM: Anyone can just grab a tag off of the tree and bring it back with a gift. 

BB: Are their more events that the National Honor Society will do in the future?

MM: In the future, the National Honor Society will be working towards our biggest fundraiser, which is the Brain Bowl.

By Aislyn McKernan – Staff Reporter

This year’s Powderpuff game was definitely one to remember. The Jonathan Law juniors and seniors played their annual Powder Puff game against Foran and Law came out on top by a score of 35-7. There were many players that contributed to the win, including senior tight end Zoe Johnson and senior linebacker Marissa Wargo. Advocate Staff Reporter Aislyn Mckernan interviewed Johnson and Wargo about the game. 

Aislyn McKernan: How were the Powderpuff practices?

Marissa Wargo: The Powderpuff practices were not very hard or long. We learned new things everyday and scrimmaged the offense.

Zoe Johnson: The Powderpuff practices were fun but also productive. We were able to prepare for the game in the short time that we had.  

AM: How do you think the game went?

MW: I think the game went very well. The game went better than I expected it to go. I am honored to be part of the game.

ZJ: I believe the game went really well. We were able to get the win and have a high-scoring game. In addition, we got many amazing stops on defense.

AM: What was the most challenging part of the game?

MW: The most challenging part of the game was that we didn’t know what play Foran was going to run and which way the ball was going. So we had to trust our eyes and be patient in our zones.

ZJ: The most challenging part of the game was finding the open space on offense and getting through the gaps when the running backs were running with the ball. For me, it was always trying to find someone to cover so they could not get to the receiver.

AM: Did you have fun playing?

MW: Yes. I had fun playing. It was a great experience to play with the girls that I would normally not do sports with.

ZJ: I had a lot of fun playing and had a great time at practices. The game was definitely the most fun, especially with it not being freezing cold and raining. 

By Jordyn Torres – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s cheerleading team gained two new great coaches, including Class of 2015 alum Morgan Colombo. They both previously coached Milford’s Pop Warner cheer team and led them to Nationals and Globals which are two of the biggest competitions. Advocate Staff Reporter Jordyn Torres interviewed Colombo about Law cheer.

Jordyn Torres: Why did you want to come back to Law and coach the cheer team?

Morgan Colombo: I wanted to come back to Law to rebuild the cheer program. This team is beyond talented, they just needed someone to give them the opportunity to be successful. Our season is just beginning and I can already tell that they are going to do amazing.

JT: What are your goals for the upcoming competition season?

MC: My goal for this season is to hit zero (perform a perfect routine). A lot of people think that the hardest thing to accomplish is a first place trophy, but that’s not the case for high school cheerleading. The stunts are more difficult which makes hitting without any mistakes extremely challenging. But I definitely think that this team is up for the challenge.

JT: What is your favorite memory so far with your team?

MC: My favorite memory so far is our joint routine with Foran. It was incredible seeing old friends, and new ones, come together to work towards a common goal and support one another. 

JT: How was it adjusting to coaching a new team?

MC: It’s always challenging adjusting to a new team, because in order to be successful you need your team to trust you. I was very fortunate though because I have coached a lot of these athletes in Pop Warner, so that definitely helped those that didn’t already trust me.

JT: As a coach what do you expect from your team?

MC: As a coach, I expect my team to be a family. I always tell them, you don’t have to like each other but you have to love each other. Especially with a sport as dangerous as cheer, where you are literally putting your safety in the hands of others. We also have a longer season than most sports, which in turns creates them to have a much stronger bond.

By Alexa Rosati – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s gymnastics season is now underway. The gymnastics season runs from December through February. Junior Gina Lombardi is excited about this season as she has been a competitive gymnast her entire life. Lombardi is a devoted team member and enjoys contributing to the team’s success. Advocate Staff Reporter Alexa Rosati interviewed Lombardi about the upcoming 2023-2024 season. 

Alexa Rosati: What are you looking forward to this season?

Gina Lombardi: I am looking forward to spending time with our new teammates, and hosting meets. 

AR: How do gymnastics meets work?

GL: There are four events and there is a judge for each event. There are two teams for a dual meet and we would start on the vault and bars. The team hosting starts on the vault. The order is vault, bars, beam, and floor. Everyone gets scored right after they compete, then at the end, the final score/ who won is announced. 

AR: What is a goal you have for this season?

GL: A goal I have for this season is to do well as a team and have fun.

AR: What is your favorite part about the team?

GL: My favorite part about the team is the chance to make friendships that will continue past the season.

AR: What makes gymnastics unique from other sports?

GL: Gymnastics is unique because it is a non-contact sport, and it takes a lot of balance and strength for your mind and body.

By Vince Romano – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Hull is a math teacher at Jonathan Law who this year teaches Geometry and Calculus. Advocate Staff Reporter Vince Romano interviewed Hull about her perspective on the 2023-2024 school year, which also brings in an updated curriculum.

Vince Romano: How has the 2023-2024 school year been going?

Mrs. Hull: I think the 2023-2024 school has been going great so far. I am teaching my usual courses (Geometry and Calculus) but using new curriculum this year. I’ve had to put in extra time preparing lessons for my classes, but I am enjoying the different activities and watching the students learn and work together. I have also enjoyed being in the Support Center during Periods 7 and 8 this year. It has allowed me to see what other courses are learning and to get to know other students. 

VR: How does your curriculum differ from last year’s, if at all?

MH: The curriculum I am using in Geometry and Calculus is more centered on the students than before. Everyday, my students complete their lesson in teams to work through a set of questions that helps build their new learning. Then we debrief and summarize the takeaways from the day. The team mentality is really important to me. I want students to work closely with the peers on their team and succeed together.

VR: What are your hopes for the winter months?

MH: I am looking forward to celebrating the holiday season with my family. My sons are one and four years old so this time of year is really exciting for us. I am also hoping for a few good snow days this winter.  

VR: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?

MH: Ask for help when you first realize you need it. Don’t put off asking for support until the last minute, your teachers are always happy to help you and answer your questions.

VR: If you had to teach a different subject, what would it be?

MH: When I first decided I wanted to be a teacher, I thought I would teach elementary school. So that’s probably what I would be doing if I didn’t teach math.

By Logan Mullarkey – Staff Reporter

Senior captain Jack Bretthauer is excited about the upcoming indoor track season. He has goals to reach not only for himself but the rest of the team as well that he would like to accomplish this season. Bretthauer plans to compete in multiple different sprinting events, hopefully winning states and competing nationally again in both the 200 and 400 meter for his final high school indoor track season. Advocate Staff Reporter Logan Mullarkey interviewed Bretthauer about indoor track season.

Logan Mullarkey: What are your individual goals for this season?

Jack Bretthauer: I want to do really well at state this year in the 300 meter and 55 meter, hopefully winning the 300 meter at state. I also want to compete at Nationals again this year hopefully in both the 200 and 400 meter.

LM: What are you looking forward to this season?

JB: I think this is going to be a really fun season. Not only do we have a lot of great guys on the team but I also will be going to New York to compete at the Armory to attempt a national qualifying standard, which should be a lot of fun.

LM: What do you plan on doing after high school?

JB: I plan on running collegiate track next year after high school and studying finance in college.

LM: What are the jobs or goals you keep as a captain?

JB: My goal is to make sure that everyone is excited to come to practice everyday. Obviously not everyone likes running, but keeping all the guys motivated and excited to come to practice is a big deal for me.

LM: What are team goals for this season?

JB: We want to see everyone improving throughout the season and having everyone try out the events that they would like to try. We have a younger team this year, so finding what everyone likes to compete in is important as the team grows.

By Michael Merchant – Staff Reporter 

Jonathan Law’s boys basketball team just completed their tryouts and is ready for the season. Senior Amadeus Betancourt is excited for the team’s first game of the year after posting a 17-5 record a year ago. Advocate Staff Reporter Michael Merchant interviewed Betancourt about the upcoming season.

Michael Merchant: What are your team’s best qualities heading into the season?

Amadeus Betancourt: We are a small tight knit team that gives max effort at all times.

MM: What has the team been doing to prepare for the upcoming season?

AB: We have been playing in summer league games and doing daily conditioning and open gym during the week.

MM: How do you think the team will be this year?

AB: I think we are going to be a well-conditioned team that is going to wear teams out.

MM: What is the main goal for this season?

AB: The main goal is to definitely at least make SCCs and the state playoffs.

MM: What are you most excited about for the upcoming season?

AB: I’m most excited to play the games and have a great season with my team.

By Isla Concepcion – Staff Reporter

Sophomore Meghan Velasquez has been on Jonathan Law’s wrestling team for the last two years. In the spring, she is also a member of the outdoor track team. Advocate Staff Reporter Isla Concepcion interviewed Velasquez about the upcoming wrestling season.

Isla Concepcion: What do you hope to accomplish this year?

Meghan Velasquez: This year, I hope to make the Top 6 at the girls state tournament and place to win at least one or two matches at the annual Queen of the Mat tournament at Foran.

IC: What is it like being on the wrestling team?

MV: The vibe is great and fun, when we have matches it’s fun to watch everyone wrestle their best and at tournaments its fun to walk and explore new schools while watching their teams and wrestlers. It’s definitely a hard sport, if not one of the hardest offered at Law. It takes a lot of discipline and mental strength, not just brute strength.

IC: What do you look forward to this year?

MV: I look forward to spending time with the increasing number of girls on the team. I also look forward to improving from last year, either my technique or my stamina. 

IC: What is it like to wrestle on a team that is predominantly boys?

MV: Personally, it’s not a weird or harsh experience. Growing up with an older brother who wrestled, I already am used to the tough environment of the boys and their interesting sense of humor. It helps that none of them are severely sexist (neither are our coaches), although they do make jokes, and they recognize that girls can be very good at wrestling. 

IC: What do you hope to do differently than last year?

MV: I hope I can get past my mental block and go into matches more confidently, whether I win or lose.

By Cindy Bone – Staff Reporter

This year, Jonathan Law has several new clubs, including the Spanish Club which is advised by Mr. McPartland and Mrs. Trombetta. The Spanish Club has hosted many activities so far including helping with Brainsgiving. They hope to have many more activities throughout the year to help students get involved in the school. Advocate Staff Reporter Cindy Bone interviewed Trombetta about the club.

Cindy Bone: How has it been co-advising the Spanish club with Mr. McPartland?

Mrs. Trombetta: It has been really fun. Mr. McPartland is great to work with and I am looking forward to all of the awesome activities we will be facilitating together.

CB: How did you feel when you saw how many people showed up for the first meeting?

MT: I was so incredibly happy to see how many students showed up and who have since shown an interest in being part of our club. 

CM: What is one thing that you wish for the club?

MT: I wish for all students to have an enjoyable time this year as members of our club in which they learn more about culture through exposure to real life experiences. 

CB: As a Spanish teacher at law, how similar or different has it been teaching classes and advising the Spanish club?

MT: It has been similar because I am still a facilitator for learning, but different because we have more freedom and less structure in the Spanish club as far as what we do and when we have to do it.

CB:  How have your classes been this year? Is there anything you hope to see happen with your classes? 

MT: My classes have been great. I am super impressed with my freshman classes who have come in with incredible background knowledge and motivation. I hope all of my students leave with an increased knowledge of the Spanish language and culture, and also more confidence to communicate.

By Charlotte Rascoll – Staff Reporter

The annual Jonathan Law vs. Foran Powderpuff game took place on November 22. Law took the win 35-7, and there was one player in particular who stood out. Junior Mady Bull played wide receiver for the Lawmen and scored three of the team’s five touchdowns. Advocate Staff Reporter Charlotte Rascoll interviewed Bull about the game.

Charlotte Rascoll: What was your attitude going into the Powderpuff game?

Mady Bull: I have been looking forward to playing powderpuff and I was determined to win.

CR: How did you prepare in the weeks leading up to the game?

MB: Everyday after school we had practice for two weeks. Tal (Salanto) and I worked hard to get the passes down. We put in extra time to make sure we had it. 

CR: Did you expect the game to go how it did?

MB: I expected to win, but I didn’t expect us to be so dominant.

CR: How did you feel about your achievements, after the game?

MB: I was really happy with the outcome. All the hard work and practices paid off. 

CR: What were your emotions while scoring your three touchdowns?

MB: I was happy to put our team ahead and in a good position to win the game. I loved celebrating with all the girls and coaches.

By Analiyah Velez – Staff Reporter 

Dawn Morrissey is an assistant girls basketball coach at Jonathan Law. Coach Morrissey has been in the program for over 10 years and now assists head coach Kevin Welch. Morrissey focuses on working hard and building up the girls to be at their best. Advocate Staff Reporter Analiyah Velez interviewed Morrissey about the upcoming season.

Analiyah Velez: What are your goals for the season?

Coach Morrissey: Work hard and see hard work pay off with an SCC and state tournament run. 

AV: What’s your favorite part of coaching? 

CM: My favorite part of coaching is working with the athletes and watching the growth from freshmen to senior year. 

AV: What’s your inspiration for coaching at Law? 

CM: Family. Law is family. My wife coached here previously, so I have been around the program for 10 years. 

AV: Who are your key returning players? 

CM: Some of the key returning players: Honestly all of them. I am excited to see what this group of girls can do. 

By Michael Smith – Staff Reporter

At the beginning of his junior year, Ben Girandola decided to join the Law football team after moving to Milford during his sophomore year. Girandola has enjoyed every aspect of playing football for Law and he has played a big role in the team’s defense. He won a post-game award after the Thanksgiving Day Game against Foran for his skills on the defensive line. Advocate Staff Reporter Michael Smith interviewed Girandola about his high school career.

Michael Smith:  How did joining the football team impacted your high school experience?

Ben Girandola: Being on the football team has greatly changed high school for me. From practice after school to games on Friday, time management is much more necessary. Being on a team sport like football has also helped me think about others more.

MS:  What has been the biggest positive from joining the football team?

BG:  The biggest positive from being a part of the team has definitely been the friendships and connections I’ve made with the guys.

MS: What were your emotions going into the Foran vs. Law game?

BG: I was excited to play. I didn’t really feel any anxiety or pressure – I just wanted to have fun.

MS: Did the season go as you hoped? Why?

BG:  No, I had really wanted to make the playoffs but that was not achieved. Regardless, I’m still satisfied with how hard we fought, especially on defense .

MS:  What would you say to get someone to consider joining the football team?

BG:  I don’t think I would try too hard to sell it to someone. If they have an interest in football or any aspects of it and demonstrate the values we hold, I would just invite them to try it out and see for themselves.

By Alex Rodriguez – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Science Club is a club for students to join in order to connect and explore their interests in STEM. There are a wide range of choices such as building items, experiments, or learning more about other science topics. Advocate Staff Reporter Alex Rodriguez interviewed club member Jack Bretthauer on what the club has planned in the future. 

Alex Rodriguez: What made you want to join the Science Olympiad Club?

Jack Bretthauer: I really wanted to join my junior year after I saw the video promoting the club on the news.  It seemed like a lot of fun and the people that were already involved in the club spoke highly about it which made me excited to join. 

AR: What do you enjoy about the Science Olympiad Club?

JB: I really enjoy going on the trips that we go on. We get to go out of state and stay in a hotel so those trips are always really fun.

AR: What are some responsibilities a student has in the Science Olympiad Club?

JB: We all have to prepare for our events for the competition. These can be testing events or building events that we compete against in other schools.

AR: What are some activities that go on during some of your meetings?

JB: We usually work on our events, this can be finding formulas or putting together our builds. We also work on fundraising events. 

AR: Does the club have any events that you work toward throughout the year?

JB: We are going to Brown university and UConn this year to compete against other schools. Brown will be a competition against schools all over the country so it is very exciting.

By Yeiden Nieves – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law junior Michael Smith was recently named to the All-SCC football team. Smith ended the season with 23 solo tackles, 14 assisted tackles, one fumble recovery and lead the state of Connecticut with seven interceptions. Smith set a major personal record this season with four interceptions in a single game against Wilbur Cross. Advocate Staff Reporter Yeiden Nieves interviewed Smith about his accomplishments.

Yeiden Nieves: Did you achieve all your goals this season?

Michael Smith: I’m confident I achieved my goals this season. My main goal was to lead the state in interceptions and it just so happened that I was fortunate enough to do so.

YN: How does it feel to be named All-SCC?

MS: Being awarded All-SCC made me feel very accomplished and that was one of my goals since I started playing football my freshman year.

YN: What was your favorite moment of the football season?

MS: My favorite moment of the football season was beating Foran. It is always a very anticipated matchup and it felt really good for our team to come out on top.

YN: Overall, how do you think the season went this year?

MS: I think the season was good overall. There were things we wish we did sooner or in the moment but this season was set to be a learning season and rebuilding season for the entire team.

YN: Were the results at the end of the season what you wanted?

MS: It didn’t go how I wanted but I think it’s what we get for the amount of work we put in. It shows us that to compete on a high level we need to practice at a high level and work harder.