By Cesar Mendez – Sports Editor

Spanish Club is a club where members come together and learn about Spanish cultures through food or fun activities. Sports Editor Cesar Mendez questioned Advisor Mr. McPartland about the club’s plans for the 2024-2025 school  year. 

Cesar Mendez: How did the Spanish Club start?

Mr. McPartland: Spanish Club started when a few students came to both me and Mrs. Trombetta and expressed their interest in starting one. We both thought it was a great idea and an excellent opportunity to have our students help make Spanish more visible here at Jonathan Law High School.

CM: What are some of the benefits of joining the Spanish Club?

MM: Spanish is fun! Here at Law, it is our opinion as a whole, that it is extremely important to be involved in extracurricular activities. As a Spanish Club, we’re all about giving back and making Spanish a larger part of our Jonathan Law community. The Spanish Club offers students a number of opportunities to give back to both their local and their not-so-local community – it feels good to do so. Students will also walk away (hopefully) feeling a bit more confident in their ability to communicate and help others using the Spanish language.

CM: What were some of the activities you did last year?

MM: Last year, we enjoyed some Hispanic cuisine, we had a station set up at FBLA’s Winter Wonderland, we hosted a movie night for the elementary students where we watched Encanto, and we helped raise money for Central American artisans by selling their hand-made pulseras (bracelets). It’s all about giving back to the community.

CM: What are some things new members should be looking forward to?

MM: Food and fun! This year, we are planning a few different events. We will be “spotlighting” local Hispanic-owned businesses/restaurants on The Morning Briefing, we are planning another movie night for our members, we will be participating in the “Pulsera Project” once again, and we’re looking at a few options we could partake in to have a larger impact on the nearby, and not so nearby, Hispanic community.

CM: What is the main goal of the club?

MM: Our goals as a club are to make Spanish more “visible” at Jonathan Law, to positively impact both our local and not-so-local Hispanic communities, and to have students walk away feeling a bit more confident using the Spanish language to communicate.

By Haley Stroffolino – Social Media Editor-in-Chief

Senior Brayden Dollar is a member of Jonathan Law’s Choir program. Advocate Social Media Editor-in-Chief Haley Stroffolino interviewed Dollar about the year so far in Choir. 

Haley Stroffolino: When did you start Choir?

Brayden Dollar: I started Choir during my sophomore year here at Jonathan law. 

HS: What is your favorite part of Choir?

BD: My favorite part of Choir is how close everyone is to each other. Everyone puts aside any problems we have and we all come together and create music. 

HS: Why did you decide to start Choir?

BD: I decided to join Choir because I’ve always had a fondness for singing and when I first joined Jonathan Law I heard only good things about the Choir program.

HS: What are your goals for this year?

BD: Some goals I have for Choir is to be a good leader in my class as a senior member.

HS: What are some accomplishments you’ve made in Choir?

BD: Some accomplishments I have made in Choir are really coming out of my shell, and becoming more of a social person in general. Not just in Choir but I feel like meeting new people has made me have less anxiety and have more of a need to meet new people.

By Tim Firla – Entertainment Editor

Harry Fisher is a senior captain of the Jonathan Law boys cross country team. Advocate Entertainment Editor Tim Firla interviewed Fisher about his season so far.

Tim Firla: When did you start cross country?

Harry Fisher: I started cross country my freshman year here at Law, so I’ve been running for four years now and I’m hoping to have a good senior season.

TF: What’s your favorite part of the team?

HF: My favorite part is that the sport is something bigger than yourself and you and all of your teammates are in it together.

TF: Why did you decide to start cross country?

HF: I started the sport because I wanted to exercise and get into shape and I also thought it was fun being a part of the team.

TF: What are your expectations for this season?

HF: My expectations are to lead this team the best way I can and to make sure we are all motivated.

TF: What is your favorite part about being a captain?

HF: My favorite part is that I get to run with some of the best teammates in the world.

By Courtney Russo – News Editor

Junior Dulce-Paz Gomez is a member of the Law girls cross country team. She also participates in indoor and outdoor track as well as the Hispanic and Latino Student Union and the Spanish Club at Law. Advocate News Editor Courtney Russo interviewed Gomez about the season so far.

Courtney Russo: How is the cross country season going so far?

Dulce-Paz Gomez: The season is going great All of the girls have been working hard and continue to work hard. As the weeks go by, the team has grown a bunch and it’s looking really good for the future.

CR: What are your goals for the season?

DG: Beating the clock. It’s been really hard for me to get where I want, but I’m hoping that by the end of the season I will get the time that I want. For me it’s never been about getting a good place, it’s been about getting a good time so I will continue to work hard and achieve my goal.

CR: What are some accomplishments you’ve made this year?

DG: Working on my leadership, I’m really proud of the respect I’ve gained from my teammates. I worked hard to not be overlooked and earn my place, I finally feel like I got it this year. I’m heard and seen.

CR: What are ways you prepare and stay in shape for cross country during the off-season?

DG: Staying in shape for the off season is really hard, especially trying to find motivation but some key ways I like to prepare are alternating with long runs and speed workouts. These are very important because it builds your stamina and endurance. I would wake up around 6 a.m. for a long run and go to Law around 3 p.m. for a speed workout and I would consistently do that 2-3 times a week.

CR: What is your favorite part of being a member of the Law girls cross country team?

DG: The environment. Everyone on the team is great and we all get along even with the boys. It is really good to have a team with great friendships and personal bonds. Being on the cross country team feels like being in a big family where everybody gets along.

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief & Editorial Editor

The Jonathan Law girls soccer team has had a very successful start to the season, shutting down Foran, Branford and West Haven. The team has outscored their opponents 12-2, with half of their goals coming from Sophomore Emily Vella. Vella has had two hat tricks, one, coming from their season opener against Foran and the other from their most recent win, West Haven. Advocate Editor-In-Chief and Editorial Editor Ella Franzman interviewed Vella about the team’s accomplishments so far. 

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

Emily Vella: I feel that the addition of our new teammates has been very impactful because we have had 2 clean sheets out of our first three games with freshman goalkeeper Gabby Rodriguez.  

EF: What is your favorite part of being a part of the Law girls soccer team?

EV: My favorite part of being a part of the Law girls soccer team is becoming friends with people outside of my grade.

EF: How did you prepare in the offseason? 

EV: In the offseason I was away a lot, but I tried to stay active by going to the field and playing soccer with friends.

EF:What are your goals and aspirations for the season? 

EV: My goals for the season are to help my team making it to the quarterfinals of states and my personsl goal is to beat the goal record of our school and also have a decent amount of assists.

EF: How do your teammates impact you?

EV: My teammates impact me by always helping me stay out of my own head and being encouraging no matter what. 

By Chloe Edmonds – Staff Reporter

This year, the Natural Helpers Club held a “De-stress Fest” to help students de-stress for final exams. Advocate Staff Reporter Chloe Edmonds interviewed Advisor Ms. Smuniewski about the event.

Chloe Edmonds: What was the role of the Natural Helpers in planning and running De-stress Fest? 

Mary Smuniewski: The Natural Helpers Club was in charge of running the event. Club members are scattered throughout the various rooms and activities to help whatever is happening in that room or area run smoothly. 

CE: What is the goal of the De-stress Fest?

MS: The De-Stress Fest is after-school event where students can engage in a variety of activities designed to help them unwind before final exams.

CE: What types of activities were available to students to help them de-stresss?

MS: This year, we had therapy bunnies join us in the TLC during the school day. After school, we had a “cozy room” with movies, snacks, and arts and crafts, we had a karaoke room where students could belt out in song, an open gym for students who wanted to shoot hoops, and an ice cream truck where anyone could grab a sweet treat! 

CE: Will there be a De-stress Fest next year?

MS: Yes there will be. 

CE: Will there be any changes to next year’s event?

MS: Overall, we were pleased with how the event ran this year! If we could do it over, we might have made a promotional video or something to help advertise the event.

By Michael Merchant – Staff Reporter 

Senior internships are in full swing and Brian Goglia has landed his internship at Ultra Clean Air, a company that specializes in keeping the air in homes clean and free from contaminants. Goglia learned more than just how to clean dryer vents and air ducts, he learned perseverance. Advocate Staff Reporter Michael Merchant interviewed Goglia about his senior internship. 

Michael Merchant: What did you do during your internship? 

Brian Goglia: I am interning at Ultra Clean Air which is an Air Duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, air quality testing and mold remediation business. Since I was new to the whole business I was just helping them by bringing supplies in but over time they taught me what to do. 

MM: Was there anything difficult about your internship?

BG: Some things that were difficult were knowing the names of all the supplies like the drill bits, and machines.

MM: Based off of this internship, if you could have another internship would you do it again?

BG: I would do another internship because it taught me more than just how to clean air ducts and dryer vents. It taught me how to communicate to customers, time management and if you fail then you have to figure out a way.

MM: What was the best part about your internship?

BG: The best part about this internship is going to all the different houses of clients. It shows me all of the different ways of living. I’ve been to a couple huge homes and it’s crazy to think that people grow up in these houses.

MM: What was the schedule like? Did it work out well? 

BG: The times and dates of this internship worked out really well because it usually ends around two hours before my baseball practices. Love never once had a conflict with the times of my internship and baseball. I also got this internship done in three weeks which is pretty fast. 

By Alex Rodriguez – Staff Reporter

Captain Jack Bretthauer is currently wrapping up his senior spring track season. Bretthauer qualified for SCCs and States this season and will be continuing his track career next year at Iona University. Advocate Staff Reporter Alex Rodriguez interviewed Bretthauer about the season.

Alex Rodriguez: What were your goals this season for the team?

Jack Brethauer: My goal for this season for the team was for us to have a lot of qualifiers for States and for team to overall just have a really good record we were able to accomplish.

AR: What were your own personal goals this season?

JB: Coming off an injury, my own personal goals. We’re just to get back to the place that I was in the shape I was in all while still being able to compete at a very high-level at states.

AR: What has been your favorite part about this season?

JB: My favorite part about the season has been the team itself. This is the closest team I’ve ever been on in my whole track career and I think we were all able to have a lot of fun with each other. 

AR: What are you going to do to prepare for your first college season?

JB: Some of the things I’m going to do to prepare for this college season is overall just work really hard during the summer. We have a rigorous training program and I’m just working on my conditioning so I’m able to be in a great position going into my first year of competition.

AR: What are your goals for next season?

JB: My goals for the next season, which would be my first season at the Division I level, is to make all conference and hopefully make the conference podium along with making my team relays and overall having a ton of time drops.

By Sophie Kalagher – Staff Reporter

Mrs. Evans is a freshman English Teacher at Jonathan Law. This is her first year teaching Law after coming from the Oxford School District. She is very well liked among her students and participates in the school community by being the Staff Advisor for Courage Club and the Multicultural Club. Advocate Staff Reporter Sophie Kalagher interviewed Evans about her experience at Jonathan Law this year. 

Sophie Kalagher: What has been your favorite memory so far at Jonathan Law?

Mrs. Evans: Oh, gosh. So many. We’ve laughed a lot in my freshman classes. I think the times when I say something ridiculous and I get called on it – those have been classic. I really enjoy discussions with my students. I’m hopeful that they learn as much as I do in those moments. One class, in particular, when some no-named boys in my class(es) were making light of situations they shouldn’t have. That is a memory I will never forget. (Apologies for the vagueness, but I’d rather not get anyone in trouble.)

SK: What unit or topic have you had the best experience teaching this year?

ME: I enjoy teaching argument with students because anything argument-related creates space for students to agree or disagree. I think all students appreciate having their voices heard and it’s really fun to listen to students argue their side. Often, they have substantive and cool things to say. Students had fun with poetry and I liked teaching the one-hundred word narrative and open letter. It was especially lovely when someone asked if I knew Edgar Allan Poe. 

SK: How would you describe your experience at Jonathan Law so far?

ME: Jonathan Law is rife with super fun(ny) students. I enjoyed getting to know all of my students – and even ones I don’t have in class. My colleagues have been warm and welcoming. Year one has been fabulous. 

SK: What are your plans for the upcoming school year, are you hoping to continue teaching freshmen?

ME: Frankly, I hadn’t taught freshmen in years and that was purposeful on my part. This year’s freshman class has totally changed my view on teaching freshmen. I loved them. The coolest part about teaching freshmen is the tangible change you can see in them – both academically and personally. There is visceral growth and I really appreciated watching that happen. So, yes, I hope to teach freshmen again. 

SK: What is the biggest takeaway you have from your first year here at Law, how does it compare to last experiences at other schools?

ME: Students are great to be around no matter what district you teach in. My Oxford crew of students were a special lot, but I already feel the same about students here. 

By Alexa Rosati – Staff Reporter 

Senior internships have come to an end and it’s time to reflect on the important experiences of the interns – specifically Abby Liscinsky, who had the opportunity to complete her senior internship at Orange Avenue Elementary School. During her time therem Liscinsky gained knowledge about the education system and developed essential skills while working with and helping the students. Advocate Staff Reporter Alexa Rosati interviewed Liscinsky about her internship.

Alexa Rosati: What were your roles and responsibilities as an intern at Orange Ave Elementary School? 

Abby Liscinsky: Some of my roles and responsibilities at Orange Ave included, making sure students stayed on task and were respectful, reading with students during reading time, and supporting students in their academics. 

AR: What motivated you to do an internship at an elementary school?

AL: What motivated me is that I love working with kids and thought it would be the most fun to work with them in a classroom rather than a camp like I’ve done previously.

AR: How has this internship impacted your understanding of the education system?

AL: This internship experience impacted my understanding of the education system because it showed me everything that goes on behind the scenes in order to give students the best education possible.

AR: Have you come across any challenges during your internship?

AL: Some challenges I encountered were when my class teacher wasn’t there. I would have to move to another class and usually another grade with students I didn’t know so it was an adjustment especially because I didn’t know specific students’ learning needs. 

AR: What was one memorable moment while interning at Orange Ave? 

AL: My most memorable moment when interning at Orange Ave was definitely when I finally got to play the around the world adding and subtracting game and I was the first to make it around the world and all of the kids were super happy and excited. 

By Layla Alogna – Staff Reporter

Mr. Pelaggi is the Band and Orchestra Director at Law. This year, the program has gone on multiple trips and performed in many concerts. Although faced with a couple of challenges and obstacles, the band and orchestra has performed about 20 times over the course of this past year. Advocate Staff Reporter Layla Alogna interviewed Pelaggi about the the school year.

Layla Alogna: What are the highlights of the band and orchestra program this year?

Mr. Pelaggi: The biggest highlight from this year was our trip to New Orleans. This culturally immersive experience was something our students will never forget. Some other highlights were our winter and spring concert performances, our parades, Friday night football games, and our collaborations with our middle school students.

LA: In what ways do you think the band and orchestra have improved over the year?

MP: It is always amazing to see the growth of our students. Our most growth always comes from our freshmen. This freshmen class has surprised me with their passion, engagement, and willingness to improve on their own. They are very committed to our music program.

LA: What are your plans and goals for next year?

MP: Our goal in every one of my ensembles is to take it day by day. Get a little better every day and you will get a lot better over an extended period of time. We have not decided on many goals for next year besides our constant commitment to improvement.

LA: Were there any challenges the band and orchestra faced?

MP: Of course! We flew as a group for the first time this year. From an airline losing one of our tubas to students forgetting music for performances, we’ve encountered all types of challenges. There are always challenges in live music, which is one of the things that makes it so beautiful and fun. Our kids do a great job preparing themselves for the performance so when they get there, they can deal with unforeseen challenges organically.

LA: How were all your concerts and performances?

MP: Everything has gone well! We have performed about 20 times throughout this year between all our events. Our spring concert is always our biggest concert of the year with the most challenging music. I feel our students rose to the occasion very well this year. I appreciate all their hard work and dedication. I can’t wait to see how they grow next year.

By Gabriella Coffin- Staff Reporter

Christina Ayala is a current senior at Jonathan Law High School who is doing her internship at Selleck’s Woods Assisted Living in Darien. Ayala’s main jobs include taking patients’ blood pressure, going over medication concerns, and taking action on further health concerns. Advocate Staff Reporter Gabriella Coffin interviewed Ayala about her experience.

Gabriella Coffin: Why did you decide to do an internship? 

Christina Ayala: I thought it would be a good opportunity to see what it’s like in the medical field first hand. I also think it’s going to be a nice thing to add to my resume. 

GC:  How is your internship going? 

CA: My internship is going really well, it’s fun but I also never know what to expect.

GC: How does an internship benefit what you want to do in the future?

CA: My internship has a little bit of everything I’d be interested in doing like patient check ups and research. 

GC: Why do you think internships are important? 

CA: I think internships are important for experience and to solidify an opportunity for your future. 

GC: Any advice you would give people hoping to do an internship in the future? 

CA: I would 100% recommend doing an internship. I would advise reaching out to multiple people or companies rather than betting on one to agree to host you as an intern.

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.