Category Archives: Academics

JROTC teaches leadership skills

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Gabriela Hernandez-Guzman

JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps), is a program offered by high schools in the United States that focuses on leadership, citizenship, character development, and military skills training. It provides students with opportunities to develop leadership qualities and learn about the importance of service to their community and country.

When Lieutenant Colonel Bill York first became an instructor for JROTC at Patterson High, it was the fulfillment of a longtime dream of his.

“I always wanted to teach”, Lt. Col. York reflected, explaining that JROTC Journey has been the most rewarding job he has ever had in his life.

Lt. Col. York’s best experience teaching JROTC was “the visit to the Columbia internship in Baltimore”. His favorite part of JROTC is helping cadets work through the challenges of their day-to-day lives.

JROTC can help students change their decision-making process and get people to view them in a more positive light.

Some activities that JROTC cadets engage in include wearing their blue uniform every Thursday, wearing their Physical Training (PT) uniform every Friday, and doing exercises. They also plan activities such as walking, running, and playing kickball. JROTC has a lot of competitions such as drill competitions, a 5K run, archery, and the “Toughest Team Challenge”.

JROTC helps cadets develop leadership skills by challenging them to push their personal limits through sports like rappelling, and the aforementioned racing and archery. Lt. Col. York states that when students get through basic training they put them in the position to lead.

One of the main benefits of joining JROTC is learning leadership skills in a safe place for all people. The program also provides opportunities for students interested in joining the military. “For the 2-3 years you are in the  programs, you can gain a rank as soon you enter and graduate from basic training.”, Lt. Col. York explained. 

The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) was established by the National Defense Act of 1916. JROTC’s mission is to motivate young people to be better citizens. JROTC programs include a curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects from military history to leadership skills, and health and wellness. Cadets learn through classroom instruction, physical training, and other activities.

JROTC plays a big role in personal development and ethics. Cadets are taught the importance of honor, courage, and commitment, which are values that they can carry with them throughout their lives. JROTC cadets and students can earn community service learning hours by doing reveille (raising the American flag) and retreat (taking the flag down), and also by participating in the Green Team, collecting recycling outside of the building and inside classrooms. 

JROTC is a high school program that teaches leadership, citizenship, and life skills. It is sponsored by the U.S military and aims to instill discipline, responsibility, and teamwork in students. JROTC is not a recruitment tool but it offers a structured environment for personal development. Additionally, JROTC provides opportunities for scholarships and military education benefits. Participants can engage in community service, drill competitions, and summer camps, enhancing their high school experience and preparing them for future success.

The JROTC curriculum is designed to prepare cadets for success in both military and civilian life by instilling valuable skills, knowledge, and values. It offers a unique educational experience that combines academic rigor with practical training and leadership development.

Editor’s Note: After this article was written, Lt. Col. Bill York shared the following update: “AFJROTC MD-932 has earned the Distinguished Unit Award for AY2023/24. The award recognizes the personal growth and accomplishments of the cadets, contributions of the instructor as a mentor, and the support of the school and local community.”

Culture Night returns for second year

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Mirian Maurizaca

Patterson High School hosted its second annual Culture Night on April 30th from 5:00-7:00 PM. The event was sponsored by the student organization, Catalyst for Change. People brought a variety of different foods from their cultures. There were several different types of presentations. There was music and dancing, and people wore traditional clothing styles from their cultures. 

At the event there was a lot of food from around the world, including African food, Filipino food, Jamaican food, Arabic food, Mexican food, and American food. One of the musical pieces presented reminded a teacher about where she was.

One of the reasons for organizing Culture Night was “to bring everyone together,” according to Ms. Olunuga. Another reason was to represent “the culture of every nationality that is in Patterson High School,” said Ms. Godinez. 

The event helped people start to understand and appreciate each other’s cultures more.

“I think everyone had the opportunity to connect more”, said a teacher whose name the Patterson Press did not catch. “It was a really rich experience.”

Homework doesn’t work (OPINION)

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Wilfredo Portillo-Quinones

Being assigned homework after school for is often stressful for students. Being given work for HOME after coming back from school seems illogical. Spending seven hours a day studying and doing assignments is already a lot for most students.

Teachers seem to assign homework to students in order for them to learn more and understand topics they’re studying, but this seems lazy, if students are being taught this at school, why do they need to spend more time doing homework in order for them to learn or give teachers a better understanding of their skill level if they’re already giving that effort in school?

According to the Florida Department of Education, “Homework teaches students that they may have to do things—even if they don’t want to.” I think that is an example of misuse of time. If we genuinely want students to get into real world stuff, we should be doing it at school. There should be more said and done at school than at home. Putting a lot of stress on students will drain them mentally, driving them away from learning and education as a whole. It’s already enough for them to get up early and go to school and exhaust their brains. Giving them more work after school just seems exhausting and very unnecessary. Teachers should take time in class to see if their students are understanding lessons and not expect students to give them a review with homework.

To build character in students, teachers should be working hands on in order to understand them and see how they grasp most ideas. Some teachers should put more effort into understanding students individually, the same way they’d check our homework to see that improvement or understanding of where most students are at. A lot of teachers love to be hands-on with students in order to actually see where they are at in terms of learning and understanding the lessons they are currently learning and working on. If more teachers did this, it would help students feel better at school and feel more supported by their teachers, because a lot of the work students do nowadays is pretty much on computers and a lot of students aren’t really built for stuff like that. Most students would rather talk to another person or be taught with actual spoken words than with what a computer, textbook, or worksheet shows. This would improve education a lot more than homework and give more students helpful ideas and a better understanding of their current work.


Mental health awareness plays crucial role in schools

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Jasmine Goins

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked in schools. With the increasing pressures and stressors that students face, it is essential to prioritize mental health awareness and support in educational settings.

According to English teacher Mr. Bey, “One of the main reasons why mental health awareness is important in schools is because it can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Many students may feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help for their mental health issues due to the stigma associated with mental illness.”

Mr. Bey went on to say, “By promoting mental health awareness in schools, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment where students feel comfortable seeking help when needed… I think that mental health awareness in our school is low, I think that people are going through things, students losing lives or just struggling to come to class and they need guidance.”

Additionally, mental health awareness can help students develop important coping skills and resilience. By teaching students about mental health and how to manage stress and anxiety, we can empower them to take control of their mental well-being. This can lead to better academic performance, as students are better equipped to handle the challenges they face. Teachers and coaches are among the most influential people in a young person’s life. For this reason, it could be beneficial for teachers and coaches to have a more hands-on approach to making sure that students are mentally well.

Furthermore, mental health awareness can help identify students who may be struggling with mental health issues. Teachers and school staff are often the first to notice changes in a student’s behavior or mood. By educating them about the signs and symptoms of mental illness, we can ensure that students receive the support and resources they need to thrive.

“I think that we should have more mental health awareness-centered advisory periods, we should have circle time, therapy, but make it where anyone can attend, and just be briefly free.”, said Mr. Bey.

Mental health awareness in schools is crucial not only for students but also for educators and parents. It can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing mental health issues and seeking help when needed.

“I think that mental health directly connects to someone’s confidence, and the more mentally well they are, the better they can do.”, Mr. Bey reflected.

Moreover, mental health awareness can also lead to the implementation of effective mental health programs and resources in schools. These programs can provide students with the tools and support they need to manage their mental well-being effectively. They can also help educate students about the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed.

Mental health awareness can also promote a positive school culture that values mental health and well-being. This can lead to increased student engagement and motivation, as students feel supported and valued by their school community.

Overall, mental health awareness in schools is essential for creating a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. It is crucial for educators, parents, and students to work together to prioritize mental health and well-being in educational settings.

Mr. Bey’s biggest piece of advice for anyone trying to improve their mental health awareness is, “They should find an outlet like playing sports, write down their issues, thoughts, and ideas and find at least one person to go to and talk to where they won’t feel judged.”

The legacy of Akira Toriyama

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Nicholas Naglieri

Akira Toriyama was a visionary Japanese manga artist who is celebrated for creating the beloved series, Dragon Ball, which has captivated audiences worldwide. This news report commemorates the life and legacy of Akira Toriyama, highlighting his profound influence on the manga industry and global pop culture, following his recent passing.

Toriyama was born on April 5, 1955, in Nagoya, Japan and passed away on March 1, 2024. Toriyama spent most of his life in Japan, where he developed his passion for manga and crafted the fantastical world of Dragon Ball. The report aims to honor Toriyama’s contributions to manga and reflect on the enduring impact of his work, even after his passing.

The news of Akira Toriyama’s passing has sent shockwaves through the manga community, with fans and fellow artists alike expressing their condolences and sharing fond memories of his work. Tributes pour in from around the globe, underscoring the profound impact Toriyama had on shaping the landscape of manga and inspiring generations of creators.

Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy will continue to shine brightly through the enduring legacy of Dragon Ball and his many other works. Toriyama breathed life into the world of manga with his unparalleled creativity and boundless imagination. His journey from aspiring artist to global phenomenon has left an indelible mark on the industry and touched the hearts of millions.

Toriyama’s rise to fame came in the 1980s with the debut of Dragon Ball, a groundbreaking manga series that captured the imagination of readers worldwide. Set in a vibrant world teeming with martial arts, mythical creatures, and epic battles, Dragon Ball became an instant classic, spawning multiple adaptations and earning Toriyama a devoted fanbase.

Throughout his illustrious career, Toriyama remained dedicated to his craft, producing a wealth of beloved manga and providing creative input for various projects. His distinctive art style and innovative storytelling techniques set him apart as a true pioneer of the genre, inspiring generations of artists and storytellers to follow in his footsteps.

As news of Toriyama’s passing reverberates throughout the manga community, fans around the world come together to celebrate his life and legacy. From his humble beginnings in Nagoya to his meteoric rise to fame, Toriyama’s impact on the world of manga and entertainment is undeniable.

While Toriyama may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on through the timeless characters and captivating stories he created. From Goku’s indomitable spirit to Vegeta’s relentless determination, Toriyama’s characters continue to inspire and resonate with audiences of all ages.

As the manga world bids farewell to one of its greatest pioneers, we remember Akira Toriyama not only for his artistic brilliance but also for the joy and wonder he brought into our lives. Though he may be gone, his legacy will endure, ensuring that his contributions to manga and pop culture will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace, Toriyama-sensei.

Patterson hosts Black History Night show

Posted on by Leave a comment

by Kylayah Davis

Patterson High school hosted a Black History Night show on Wednesday February 28th. The event was organized by Mr. Fowler with performances from Patterson’s newly established Performing Arts Academy. 

In total, the Performing Arts Academy put on three shows in honor of Black History Month: two during the day on Tuesday, February 27th during 2nd and 4th period for students who made Honor Roll and Principal’s List, and then another event on Wednesday evening for families at 6:00 PM. The hosts would like to extend a thank you to all those who came out to support our young creatives and their hard work during the stormy weather on Wednesday night. 

The show opened with the Black national anthem (“Lift Every Voice and Sing”), followed by introductions and a welcome message by the man who produced this great show, choir director Mr. Fowler.

After this opening, a song called Siyahamba was performed by the choir called while student performers danced to the music. This dance was the debut of Patterson’s newly established dance program under the direction of Mr. Kwame and our modeling troupe under Coach Z. After this, the band went on to play “Wade in The Water”, a negro spiritual code song with solos by Korey Spruill and Christian Yates. The Show was split into four sections representing four key elements of Black culture: style, movement, gestures of dismissal, and music.

The style portion hosted by 10th grade student Araya Brinkley featured Patterson’s newly formed modeling troupe. The troupe performed a dance to the song “They Don’t Really Care About Us” by Michael Jackson and showcased African American fashions from multiple decades. 

The show also featured the poems, “I too am America” By Langston Hughes, performed by Micah Mcdonald and Caleb Johnson, and “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou performed by Dinea Griffin, Octavia Caldwell, Tynazia Burgess, Tammie Gordon, Syniah Rawlings, and Demi Hines.

Christina Johnson showed her art which featured representations of Black girls. Cristina created four works of art for this collection:

  • Buttons for hair – Uses actual buttons to represent the kinky coils of Black hair 
  • Perm at home – Shows a Black girl getting a perm at home to fit Western beauty standards
  • Solitude – Showcases the loneliness of Black girls in ballet 
  • Damage – a representation of the words Black girls have heard or experienced because of their natural hair

The musical portion of the show was a fan favorite and was hosted by Mr. Fowler. This section showcased quick lip sync performances by students representing different genres of music, including R & B, HipHop, and Rap, with songs by The Temptations, Mary J. Blige, New Edition, Tupac, and Biggie.

“I’m Goin’ Down” was performed by Tynazia Burgess, “Hit ’Em Up” was performed by Sincere Bartfield, “Juicy” was performed by Charles Goodman, “Billie Jean” was performed by Caleb Williams, and “My Girl” was performed by Zion Woods, Devon Brown, Tyshawn, Aaron Washington and La’ron Howard.

To conclude the night, the choir sang the song “Glory”, featuring the band, with instrumental solos by Kylayah Davis and Winner Mbenga and vocal solos by Jeanette Giles, Octavia Caldwell and Sincere Bartfield. “Glory” was made for the movie Selma which depicted the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, where African Americans and their allies marched for voting rights and an end to discrimination. 

The show was so well received that students wished for another one. Many students hope that we can make this an annual tradition with even better performances in the years to come. Once again, the organizers of this event would like to extend a thank you to all who helped with the production of the show. Finally, a special “thank you” to everyone who came out to support the show, and please come out to support more events from our Performing Arts Academy.

Patterson hosts Winter Spirit Week to raise money for SGA 

Posted on by Leave a comment

By Deontay Blackwell

February 12th to 15th was Patterson High School’s winter Spirit Week hosted by Patterson’s Student Government Association (SGA) to raise money for the organization.

SGA raised money by asking students to pay for the opportunity to nominate a staff member to get pied in the face at a pep rally that was held on Thursday in the gym. The fortunate victim to receive this pie to the face was Mr. Ober, an English teacher.

For this spirit week, each day had a specific theme: Monday was a cozy day where people wore their pajamas like onesies and pledge pants. Tuesday was twin day where students tried to match with their friends to look like twins. Wednesday was flip-flop day where teachers dressed like students and students dressed like teachers. Finally, on Thursday, students and staff showed their Patterson pride during the day by wearing our school colors which are blue, white, and black, and then ending the celebration with a pep rally. The different cohorts participated in fun games against each other or against the staff members. These games included musical chairs with basketballs and real-life Hungry Hungry Hippos.

All of these events were planned by the SGA, a small group currently in need of more members as they have an important role helping to run fun events within the school for everyone to participate.

“The money raised is for future events for the school”, explained Jayzanay “Jazzy” Blessett, one of the members of SGA.

SGA can help to benefit students with more fun activities if more students join. Also, if you have problems with the way that the school is run and and you want to address those issues, SGA can be a great way to make your voice heard.

Voting age should be lowered to 16

Posted on by Leave a comment

By Wilfredo Portillo-Quinones

We learn in school that voting is one of the most important rights of citizenship. Yet most high school students are not allowed to vote because they are under 18. I believe that 16 and 17-year-olds should have the right to vote. As a teenager we have fresh perspectives with new thoughts and ideas that can add to what our government already has in mind for the country.

Our current government is run primarily by older people. When the two main candidates for President are the oldest to ever run in history, it feels like we’re lowering our standards. There needs to be a better mind at our highest office of government, especially when we’re making enemies out of other countries and military forces. I think if teenagers could vote, we would vote for a president with an open mind and someone who can relate to our ideas for the country.
Our country needs a leader who has an open mind about things and isn’t quick to make enemies. We as teenagers could support our government with ideas and feel better about our government if we knew we had a president who could relate to us.

There are claims that young people don’t care or even think about our government power and that is false. A lot of young people care about our government, as studies show. According to the website youthrights.org, people of the age of 17-18 vote more than people ages 20-40. In 2014, Chicago allowed their youth to vote and 75% of eligible people ages 16-17 voted compared to 54% of people ages 20-50, showing us that our youth care at least as much as older people do. In Baltimore, we let our youth vote for our mayor in one election and people of the age of 17 voted 35% compared to 36% of people 18 and older, showing us that teens will vote at more or less the same level as older people. This proves that our youth care as much as older people do. The same website also shows data that shows that contrary to popular belief, high school students actually know more on average about the government that older people. This makes sense when you consider that we are learning about government in school and the information is fresh in our minds. Despite some people’s claims that teenagers are too ignorant to vote, the truth is that youth have open minds, are as well-informed as other age groups, and should have the same rights as other Americans. We also care about our country and who our leaders are.

There are many organizations fighting for youth rights and they’ve proven the facts that teenagers have the right ideas for our country. We should support and fight for teenage voting rights. Voting rights for teenagers would create many new opportunities for us to become active citizens and make our country better. I hope these specific facts will convince you that teenagers above the age of 16 do care about our country and should be given the right to vote.



Health care out of reach for many in the U.S.

Posted on by Leave a comment

By Dayanna Herrera-Mateo

 Healthcare prices have been a big problem in the United States for years. It is said that the prices are getting more expensive because of new health-related technologies.

From a global perspective, it has been reported that the United States has the worst healthcare prices and they continue to be more expensive than other high-income countries, and still, the U.S. is the only wealthy country that doesn’t have universal health coverage. Universal health coverage is when all people have access to all of the quality health services they need without financial problems.

Spending money per person on healthcare is almost two times higher than in Germany and four times higher than in South Korea. In the United States, people are more likely to die at a young age, the highest death rates are from avoiding conditions that can be treated, and we also have the highest suicide rate, which may stem from mental health problems which can also be expensive. About a total of 79 million Americans have medical bills and/or debt.

Immigrants have also been protesting in front of the Maryland State House in support of a healthcare bill which stated that healthcare is a human right. The bill would have allowed undocumented immigrants to access state health care assistance, but the bill failed to pass. The CARE Act, which was passed in 2016 and is still in force today, prevents many immigrants from receiving benefits from Maryland’s health care assistance program.

Immigrants try to avoid hospitals even when they’re very sick and have a sickness that could even be deadly because they’re scared about the high bill that they could have, so they’re demanding healthcare insurance. There was also a video trending in which a lady was seen trapped in a subway train in Boston and you could see she was struggling but she kept shouting and begging others who were on the scene not to call the ambulance. That might be because ambulance rides can cost about $1,300. It is understandable that she didn’t want the ambulance to be called. 

Healthcare is too expensive for some citizens to even afford, and it has been a problem for a long time now. The U.S. also doesn’t guarantee government or public health coverage to all their citizens. People are getting stressed to the point where they go so far as to unalive themselves because of hospital bills or any type of healthcare bills. 

« Older Entries Recent Entries »