This season, the Patterson Clippers swim team has shown that success isn’t just about speed–it’s about trust. From the first practice to the latest meet, the team has grown stronger by believing in one another and moving as one unit.
Every race, every workout, and every moment of doubt was met with encouragement and teamwork, proving that when we trust each other, we run harder and stronger. The coaches constantly remind players to stay locked in, even under pressure.
One of the most repeated reminders we hear is “Turn to the side. Breathe out of your mouth.” This more than just advice. It’s a symbol of staying calm, focused, and in control when it matters most. That mindset has helped us push through tough races and finish strong, no matter the challenge.
What truly sets the Clippers apart is our bond. We don’t just swim together; we support each other like family. Before every race, our team chant fills the air: “Family on 3, family on me… 1, 2, 3 FAMILY!” Those words remind us that no one competes alone. Every stride is backed by the trust and love of the entire team.
So far this season, the Patterson Clippers have proven that unity is our greatest strength. By trusting each other, listening to our coaches, and standing together as a family, we’ve built something bigger than wins; we’ve built a legacy.
Patterson High School had the honor of welcoming a very special guest on January 9 when Rochelle Ballantyne, a nationally recognized chess player, lawyer, speaker, and advocate for inclusion, paid the school a visit. The event was hosted by the Patterson Chess Team and co-sponsored by the Baltimore Kids Chess League, and it became an unforgettable experience for students from Patterson and across the city.
Rochelle Ballantyne is known not only for her success in chess, but also for her powerful story. She won a high school chess championship while still in middle school, later becoming one of the stars of the award-winning documentary Brooklyn Castle (2012). The film followed five students from a junior high school chess team in Brooklyn and showed how, despite coming from low-income communities, they won more national championships than any other school in the country. Through chess, Rochelle showed how education, discipline, and opportunity can change lives.
During her visit, Ballantyne gave an inspiring TED-style talk where she shared her personal journey. She spoke honestly about her wins and losses, and how chess helped her grow–not just as a player, but as a person. She explained that Brooklyn Castle was about more than personal success—it highlighted bigger issues in the education system and the importance of investing in young people. Ballantyne emphasized that chess gave her a voice, one she does not take for granted, and allowed her to inspire students in communities like ours.
One of the most powerful messages from her speech was about leadership and perspective. Ballantyne explained that chess teaches you to see the world through someone else’s eyes. Every piece has value, just like every person has a story worth hearing. She shared how this mindset shaped her into a better lawyer, listener, and advocate. According to Ballantyne, real leadership is not just about making the right move, but about listening, adapting, and understanding the whole board—both in chess and in life.
After her talk, Ballantyne played against 45 students, taking on 20 opponents at a time, which amazed everyone watching. She did not lose a single match. However, due to her tight schedule and the need to catch her train, she offered draws to Nathan Hernandez, Dominic Robinson, and Brandon Lopez. Special recognition was also given to Kaniya Gardner and Josseling Cadena for their outstanding performance. Many students said they felt inspired and motivated by the experience.
I had the opportunity to interview Rochelle Ballantyne during her visit. When I asked her about her time in college, she shared that it was difficult at first because it was her first time away from home and the academic work was much harder. However, she said college opened her eyes to a new world and helped her discover who she wanted to be and what she wanted to do in the future.
When asked about the biggest challenges she faced, Ballantyne spoke about growing up in a low-income household and helping support her family. She emphasized the importance of community, family, and having people who believe in you. She shared that her mother and grandmother were the first people to truly believe in her and push her to achieve her goals, something she said she will always be grateful for.
Reflecting on Brooklyn Castle, Ballantyne explained that she did not feel pressure during filming because she was very young at the time, but she is proud of the impact the movie had. She believes it helped show how important education is and why it deserves more support. When asked what she would tell her younger self, Ballantyne answered simply but powerfully: “Keep going.” She reminded students that even when things are uncomfortable or painful, there is something brighter on the other side.
The event was truly a team effort, and special thanks go to the Patterson Chess Team members, including Nelson, Amori, Donavan, Devin, Steven, Jaisdel, Jordon, Libny, Rubi, and Roman, who helped make this event possible. Ballantyne herself praised our school, saying, “I was really impressed with Patterson. They are really building something special here.”
Rochelle Ballantyne’s visit was more than a chess event—it was a lesson about perseverance, leadership, and believing in yourself. For many students, including myself, her story was a reminder that no matter where you come from, with determination, support, and vision, you can change your future.
(estudiante del curso de Español para hablantes de Herencia : cohorte 2028)
La experiencia de mi primer año en Patterson fue un poco estresante porque llegué un poco tarde;ya habían pasado los primeros días de clase. Sin embargo, todos fueron muy amables conmigo. Muchos maestros me trataron muy bien y me ayudaron a entender sus clases. El primer día estaba muy ansiosa y tenía miedo de ver quiénes serían mis nuevos maestros y compañeros,pero me sentí aliviada porque todos fueron muy buenos conmigo y me hicieron sentir cómoda.
La gran diversidad de alumnos que se pueden encontrar en Patterson al principio me atemorizaba, ya que esperaba que pudiéramos llevarnos bien unos con otros. Temía no caerles bien o que no me hablaran, así que me mantuve distante, evitando malas miradas o comentarios. Con el tiempo, me di cuenta de que estaba equivocada; todo eso solo estaba en mi mente. Mis compañeros de clase resultaron ser exactamente lo que necesitaba para sentir que sí encajaba aquí.
En Patterson he tomado la clase de arte porque me gusta dibujar y crear cosas. También formo parte del programa AJROTC porque, si no logro encontrar algo que realmente me guste en mi último año,me gustaría considerar la milicia como una opción para poder ayudar económicamente a mi mamá.
No voy a mentir,cuando llegué, sí tuve algunas dificultades para entender el trabajo. La transición de la escuela intermedia a la secundaria no fue fácil. Al principio me daba pena pedir ayuda, pero cuando lo hice, los maestros siempre estuvieron dispuestos a explicarme y a apoyarme. Ellos me recuerdan constantemente que no importa si uno no entiende algo de inmediato, lo importante es pedir ayuda sin miedo.
A los estudiantes que están empezando la secundaria, les diría que siempre estén preparados, que hagan sus trabajos a tiempo y que no los dejen para el último momento. Aunque dé miedo, pedir ayuda es clave para aprender y ganar confianza. Tampoco tengan miedo de hacer amigos. Sé que no es fácil, pero cuando lo logren, se darán cuenta de que es una de las mejores decisiones, porque los amigos son una parte muy importante de la vida.
Espero aprobar todas mis clases con buenas calificaciones y no perder ninguna por falta de responsabilidad. He vivido muchos momentos hermosos en la escuela,en mis clases, con mis amigos y durante los paseos escolares. A veces, esos pequeños momentos son los que más se recuerdan.
Lo que más disfruto son los paseos escolares. Son muy divertidos y,para poder participar, es importante ser responsable con las clases y cumplir con las expectativas de comportamiento tanto en los salones como en los pasillos. Creo que, para tener una experiencia positiva en Patterson, es fundamental mostrar esfuerzo e interés por aprender.
Nunca me ha interesado practicar deportes ni unirme a equipos deportivos,pero sé que en esta escuela los equipos son divertidos y positivos para los estudiantes que sí desean participar. Unirse a algún grupo les puede enseñar cosas nuevas, como disciplina y responsabilidad,retan a los alumnos y les ayudan a sentirse parte de un equipo y a tener orgullo por la escuela que representan.
En ocasiones pueden parecer duros y estrictos, pero solo es para que seamos buenas personas y pongamos empeño tanto en el trabajo escolar como en los grupos/equipos a los que pertenecemos.
Aún me faltan dos años para terminar la secundaria,pero el tiempo que he estado aquí me ha ido muy bien y espero graduarme de esta escuela, donde todos han sido tan buenos conmigo. Muchos dicen que Patterson es mala o fea,pero yo diría lo contrario porque, a pesar de algunas situaciones, la mayoría de las personas son respetuosas, educadas y hasta cuidan la escuela.
Para terminar, quiero dejar un consejo a quienes llegan este año. Todos merecen sentirse seguros en la escuela. Si en algún momento no es así, hay muchos profesores y adultos dispuestos a ayudar. No tengan miedo de intentar cosas nuevas. Ya sea un deporte, una actividad, una clase o simplemente pedir ayuda, todo suma a la experiencia. Patterson ofrece muchas oportunidades, y cuando uno se da la oportunidad de participar, es más fácil sentirse parte de la escuela y disfrutar el tiempo aquí.
by Julia Vargas Pina (Student of Spanish for Heritage Speakers class – Cohort 2028)
The experience of my first year at Patterson was a little stressful, because I arrived a bit late; the first days of school had already passed. However, everyone was very kind. Many teachers treated me well and helped me understand their classes. On the first day, I was very anxious and afraid to see who my new teachers and classmates would be, but I felt relieved because everyone was very welcoming and made me feel comfortable.
At first, the great diversity of students at Patterson intimidated me, and I hoped we would all get along with one another. I was afraid people wouldn’t like me or wouldn’t talk to me, so I kept my distance, trying to avoid negative looks or comments. Over time, I realized I was wrong; all of that was only in my mind. My classmates turned out to be exactly what I needed to feel that I truly belonged here.
At Patterson, I have taken an art class because I enjoy drawing and creating things. I am also part of the AFJROTC program because, if I don’t find something I truly enjoy by my senior year, I will consider the military as an option to help support my mom financially.
I won’t lie–when I first arrived, I had some difficulty understanding the schoolwork. The transition from middle school to high school was not easy. At first, I felt shy about asking for help, but when I did, the teachers were always willing to explain and support me. They constantly remind me that it doesn’t matter if you don’t understand something right away, what matters is asking for help without fear.
To students who are just starting high school, I would say to always be prepared, complete your work on time, and don’t leave everything for the last minute. Even if it feels scary, asking for help is key to learning and gaining confidence. Don’t be afraid to make friends, either. I know it’s not easy, but once you do, you’ll realize it’s one of the best decisions you can make, because friends are a very important part of life.
I hope to pass all my classes with good grades and not fail any due to a lack of responsibility. I’ve experienced many beautiful moments at school, in my classes, with my friends, and during school field trips. Sometimes, it’s those small moments that are remembered the most.
What I enjoy the most are school trips. They are very fun, and in order to participate, it’s important to be responsible in your classes and meet behavior expectations, both in classrooms and hallways. I believe that to have a positive experience at Patterson, it’s essential to show effort and interest in learning.
I’ve never been very interested in playing sports or joining athletic teams, but I know that at this school, teams are fun and positive for students who want to participate. Joining a group can teach students new things like discipline and responsibility, challenge them, and help them feel part of a team and proud of the school they represent.
At times, teachers and coaches may seem strict, but it’s only because they want us to be good people and to put effort into both our schoolwork and the groups or teams we belong to.
I still have two more years to finish high school, but the time I’ve spent here has been very positive, and I hope to graduate from this school, where so many people have been kind to me. Many people say negative things about Patterson, but I would say the opposite because, despite some challenges, most people are respectful, well-behaved, and even take care of the school.
To finish, I want to leave a piece of advice for those who are arriving this year. Everyone deserves to feel safe at school. If at any moment that isn’t the case, many teachers and adults are willing to help. Don’t be afraid to try new things, whether it’s a sport, an activity, a class, or simply asking for help; everything adds to the experience. Patterson offers many opportunities, and when you give yourself the chance to participate, it becomes easier to feel like you belong and to enjoy your time here.
Our women’s volleyball team played its first season since the retirement of Coach Leliani Jones, a coach who has mentored these women since 2019. After coaching volleyball at Patterson for six years, another goal-oriented leader by the name of Ms. Waker is attempting to fill Coach Jones’ shoes as Patterson’s new varsity volleyball coach.
Taking on the new role of a leader in these students lives both off and on the court, Coach Waker said, “I’ve always wanted to coach, so it was a perfect opportunity to challenge myself while doing what I enjoy, which is teaching kids to have fun and be confident in their abilities”. The returning volleyball athletes (three seniors, four juniors, two sophomores and a freshman) had to readjust to the new coach’s methods to be able to dominate.
A varsity coach who has never played volleyball and a JV coach with little to no coaching experience took charge and finished the season with five wins and seven losses. These coaches learned the rules of the game and each player’s personality within a few weeks, so the team could get back on the court.
A few weeks into September, the coaches tried introducing new rotations in the games so players felt more comfortable. “Lost games were often due to players set in the ways of their past coach and because players lacked stamina from choosing not to condition”, Coach Waker explained.
After a disappointing game against Reginald F. Lewis on September 18, the coaches came to the conclusion that their players lacked discipline and motivation. “I understand it was difficult for players to adapt from prior coaching but I wanted everyone to try their best to have fun and push through the discomfort.”, Coach Waker reflected.
The coaches were open to testing new ideas and learning from the team, and this growth mindset supported the players in their games. “Players were often asking to stay late after practice just to improve the team chemistry, drilling to keep their winning spirits up”, recounted varsity captain Alivia Wallece.
This is what made players realize that restarting doesn’t mean a world ending, it means a new world beginning. “Being more positive as a team will help us win instead of losing because we’re in our heads while playing“, said Sophomore varsity player Briel Gale.
After winning a few games towards the end of the season, the team tried their hardest to keep the winning streak up but found they were still frequently outmatched by the opposing team. The scores were relatively close after each set, but the Lady Clippers were often defeated by the end of the game.
However, the team refused to give up and the Lady Clippers persevered to win the final two games of the regular season, thereby qualifying for playoffs. Revitalized by this accomplishment, they were ready to face those county teams with Clipper pride. The team pushed through all distractions and fears and did their best.
Based on this outstanding late-season performance, the new coaching staff is confident that with more practice and time, the Lady Clippers have a bright future ahead of them. These individuals constantly bring light to the team about the circumstances they face instead of dwelling on them, even though they sometimes felt negative or frustrated themselves.
Even with all their disadvantages and sudden changes, the team still fought hard and made its mark. Our ladies are excited to come back next season, stronger than before, and show the world what being a Lady Clipper means!
Clipper Productions, Patterson’s drama club, performed a brand new play on November 20–a dystopian story titled “In Darkness, Audio Flowers Bloom” written by Alvaro Saar Rios. Since the script had just been published, cast members had to brainstorm creative ways to draw emotion from the text with little to no visual examples of how the play is supposed to be presented. The actors quickly embraced their characters and prepared for opening night.
The play was performed on Thursday, November 20th with an encore performance the following night. The first performance seemed like it went by slightly faster than the Friday show, which was for the parents, staff and family members.
This is only one of the many challenges our amazing crew members had to endure during the production of this play in a short two months. Everyone in the packed auditorium who watched this play enjoyed every second of escaping into a new world. The audience also liked the authenticity the story displayed.
At times the audience found the plot a little hard to follow, due to some actors who could not make it to the performance, forcing the rest of the cast to improvise. “The storyline was interesting but oftentimes i was confused as to which character was which”, commented alumnus actor Jabari Heartly. Overall, though, most audience members appreciated the meaning of the story–that oftentimes your fears are your worst enemy.
There were mysterious characters named Silencers, who “silenced” the characters by keeping them frozen whenever one entered the stage coming from the depths of darkest corners. Characters weren’t allowed to make sounds, express themselves or create music with any so called “instruments”, and if they were caught doing so they were sent to some place called the “O Pits”.
The resolution of this story ended with a character sharing some top secret dance moves they learned from being sent to the “O Pits” and with combined vocals they created music together. Everyone was happily being themselves without living in fear of being killed, threatened or imprisoned.
This play was impressively put together without much information and time and yet was still a success. In the Spring semester, the Arts department will perform a musical aiming to wow the audience.
At Patterson High School, there is a special program called the Teacher Academy of Maryland (TAM), designed for students who want to learn more about the teaching career and the education system. This program begins in 10th grade and continues through 12th grade, guiding students throughout their high school journey. Through classes, projects, and real experiences, TAM prepares young people not only to become future teaching assistants but also to be leaders capable of making a difference in other people’s lives.
The class is led by Ms. Sánchez, who has been in charge of the program for the past two years. Under her leadership, students gain important knowledge about the teacher’s role—from how to manage a classroom from start to finish, to how to support student learning and create engaging strategies that motivate everyone. Ms. Sánchez doesn’t just teach theory; she encourages students to put their learning into practice, giving them tools that prepare them for real-life situations.
Day by day, students learn how to organize a classroom, help other students, apply teaching strategies, and design activities that make learning fun and interesting. In addition, the program has created a strong sense of community among its members. “TAM isn’t just a class—it’s like a family. We always support each other and care about one another,” says Jihaad Everett, a TAM student.
As students move forward in the program, they reach 12th grade with a special opportunity: to work as teaching assistants in different types of classrooms. This hands-on experience allows them to apply everything they have learned—helping with classroom management, preparing lesson plans, assisting small groups, and using various strategies such as technology, games, and creative activities that make learning more dynamic and enjoyable.
The TAM program also encourages strong connections with teachers who act as mentors, guiding students and sharing their professional experience. Educators like Ms. Pérez, Mr. Pernia, Ms. Edward, Ms. Bell, Ms. Moschelle, Ms. Archie, Ms. Masati, and Dr. Tucker have opened their classrooms to us, allowing us to work alongside them, trusting us, and helping us grow as future educators. This opportunity to learn directly from teachers makes a huge difference and inspires us to continue our journey with passion for teaching.
For many of us, TAM has been more than just a class—it has been a space for both academic and personal growth. Students not only prepare for their future careers but also develop essential skills such as leadership, responsibility, commitment, and empathy. “This program taught me that teaching is not only about giving lessons; it’s also about inspiring, listening, and supporting others,” shares Nelson Fonseca.
TAM is a life-changing experience. It shapes us as students, as future professionals, and as human beings. At Patterson High School, this program has proven that education is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about building relationships, inspiring others, and leaving a positive impact that lasts over time.
The Patterson High School football field was full of joy and excitement as the students entered the field on October 10. Every class cohort came to support their teams and get hyped up for the Homecoming game.
The event began with a powerful Color Guard performance by JROTC, setting the tone for the Pep Rally while presenting during the playing of the National Anthem. Next up was the cross country team running down the track, followed by the girls football team, the JV football team, the varsity football team, and finally, the cheerleaders. The cheerleaders brought the crowd to life with their chants, dances, and cheers, showing off their hard work and spirit.
Students filled the bleachers and field, sitting with their cohorts and waving their cohort banners, posing for pictures and shouting for their class cohort while being asked what they like about their cohort, and which class cohort is the best. Lena Brown shared, “I like that my cohort gets along and they are laid-back. The best cohort is the Class of 2026 and Class of 2027.” Roman Clark proudly declared, “2027 is the best cohort because I like the colors and we are very confident.”
The day was packed with activities, including tug-of-war, rapping performances, cup challenges. dances, and even moments when ice buckets were thrown, making the crowd laugh and cheer.
Around the entrance of the field, students enjoyed sweet treats from the Kona Ice truck and other fundraiser snack tables. The Marines were also there with their pull-up bar, joining in the fun and supporting the students.
One of the biggest highlights of the pep rally was the announcement of the Homecoming King and Queen for the seniors, and Prince and Princess for the juniors, which were both celebrated with loud cheers and applause from their fellow students.
Students shared their thoughts about what they enjoyed from the event and what can be improved for next year’s pep rally.
Larry Escobar said, “I think today’s pep rally was fine, but it should have more activities so everyone could be a part of it.”
Myra Fortune added, “They did a really good job, but I feel like it could have been in the gym and we could have our phones.”
Ms. Masati, a teacher at Patterson, said, “My favorite sports team that came out was all of them because I love all my students.”
Zoe Harris also said, “I liked the cheerleaders because they did it the best and they showed off.”
The pep rally was more than just a school event. It was a day filled with laughter, teamwork, and pride. Each class showed their spirit, teachers and students came together, and everyone left smiling. It was a perfect way to celebrate Patterson pride and get ready for Homecoming, reminding everyone what it means to be a true Clipper.
El departamento de Arte de Patterson nos presentó una sólida presentación cultural en nuestro pequeño auditorio el martes 30 de septiembre para nuestros estudiantes. El evento celebró nuestro cuerpo estudiantil predominantemente hispano aquí en Patterson, para ayudar a los no hispanos y a los de origen hispano a comprender su identidad haciendo algo divertido. Esto también anima a los estudiantes a sentirse cómodos enorgulleciéndose de su cultura sin miedo ni juicio.
La comida fue servida en la cafetería a las 5:00 pm y terminó a las 6:00pm . Había un montón de pupusas que también incluía variedad de salsas , mientras música latino estaba en el fondo mientras esperamos para el show. A las 7:00 pm la audiencia entró en un auditorio oscuro para ver la muestra informativa.
La actuación de apertura fue un paso apasionado de unos 30 estudiantes que representaban a sus países, envueltos en banderas y atuendos culturales, marchando al ritmo de la introducción de una canción hispana por parte de nuestra banda de música. Cada estudiante sonreía de oreja a oreja, feliz de compartir la historia de su país con el mundo.
Un poco después de que las banderas subieran al escenario, una presentación de diapositivas compartió algunos de los valores apreciados en la cultura hispana. Estas diapositivas mostraron la importancia de las especias en las comidas hispanas, dieron una idea de las vidas de los latinos en Estados Unidos, los trabajos, los estereotipos raciales y la importancia del ritmo y el baile. Aprender sobre las dificultades tácitas de los hispanos, así como su potencial de éxito, ayuda a los estudiantes a ser más conscientes de las similitudes entre su propia cultura y otras culturas.
Muchos vecinos de estudiantes, primos, abuelas y más familia se unieron para apoyar y animar a su gente, sin importar su país.
“Con toda la agitación que está sucediendo en Estados Unidos, es importante celebrar siempre que podamos”, dijo el Sr. Richard, empleado de City School, compartió la importancia del orgullo y la felicidad en las vidas latinas.
Jeanileyshka Rodríguez, estudiante de interpretación, dijo que la mejor parte de su actuación fue “poder bailar junto con mis amigos y compañeros de clase”.
La actuación de los estudiantes fue bien recibida por la audiencia, incluidos los padres, muchos de los cuales expresaron esperanzas de más celebraciones de la herencia hispana en el futuro.
Patterson’s growing Arts department presented us with a strong cultural performance in our small auditorium on Tuesday, September 30th for our students. The event celebrated our predominantly Hispanic student body here at Patterson, to help non-Hispanics and those of Hispanic origin understand their identity by doing something fun. This also encourages students to be comfortable with taking pride in their culture without fear or judgment.
Food was served in the cafeteria from 5:00-6:00. There were plenty of pupusas packed with a variety of dips while Latin music played in the background as we waited for the show. At 7:00, the audience entered the darkened auditorium to watch the informative showcase.
The opening performance was a passionate stride of about 30 students representing their countries, draped in cultural flags and attire, marching to the beat of our marching band’s introduction of a Hispanic song. Each student was smiling ear to ear, just happy to be sharing their country’s story with the world.
Soon after the flags went on stage, a slide show presentation shared some of the values appreciated in Hispanic culture. These slides showed the importance of spice in Hispanic foods, gave insight into the lives of Latinos in America, jobs, racial stereotypes, and the importance of rhythm and dance. Learning about the unspoken hardships of Hispanics as well as their potential for success informs students to become more aware of similarities between their own culture and other cultures.
So many neighbors of students, primos, abuelas, and more familia came together to support and cheer on their people, no matter their country.
“With all the turmoil happening in America it’s important to celebrate whenever we can”, said City School employee Mr. Richard, sharing the importance of pride and happiness in Latino lives.
Jeanileyshka Rodriguez, a student performer, said the best part of her performance was “being able to dance together with my friends and classmates”.
The student performance was well received by the audience, including parents, many of whom expressed hopes for more Hispanic heritage celebrations in the future.
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