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.”
April 11, 2024 marked the first ever Electronic Sports (esports) event in Baltimore City Public Schools with Patterson High School competing against Benjamin Franklin High School in a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tournament bracket. Patterson defeated Ben Franklin by a score of 4-1 in Super Smash Bros Ultimate. The team persevered through a bad internet connection to pull out the win.
Mr. Sokolski (or Mr. Ski, as most students call him) is the coach for Patterson High School’s esports team and runs Patterson’s gaming club.
“I think it is an awesome opportunity for students, especially students who may not have other activities that they are interested in. It’s a place where they can get more involved in the school, and competing against other schools, and be part of that school spirit.”
Mr. Ski wanted students to gain a group of friends, have fun together, and especially get good at video games. As esports events have been becoming more popular, students can potentially start a career in gaming by competing in cash cups and being on an esports team.
Mr. Ski has an Advisory class and after-school club for the gaming club. He has multiple Nintendo Switches and a PlayStation to run games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, all current year Madden, 2K, FC24, Brawhella, and Rocket League. The students who participated in the esports event against Franklin were Jeremy Jones, Rachard Ockimey, Nicholas Callis, Phillip Jones, and myself–Deontay Blackwell.
For the other players, it has been a great experience for them being able to participate in an esports tournament for the first time.
“You don’t know how experienced they are at the game. You don’t know who they play as. It’s only fun when you actually give yourself a challenge.”, said Rachard Ockimey as they all shared how they felt during the tournament.
This was the first school year that Patterson participated in esports, but it will not be the last.
The Chess Club at Patterson High is a place where students can go and have fun while learning the game and competing with other schools. There are 3 faculty advisors for the club: Mr. O’ Neal, Mr, Baron, and Mr. Tola.
The Chess Club has done well in multiple competitions this year. They have had some 1st place wins as well as 2nd and 3rd place wins. In the first week of April, the Chess Club prepared for a national championship. The Chess Club has played in the top 20 but they hope to play in the top 10.
For the first time in history, Patterson finished first place in the citywide end of year championship. Senior Julian Shifflett was awarded player of the year and the team returned with first place trophies in three of the four divisions, making Patterson the top school in Baltimore.
Inemesit Udo-Akang, a senior, said, “It was great to get revenge on Poly. They were winning all year, but we came out on top.”
Mr. Baron explained that although the Chess Club competes with other schools, the main focus is just on playing chess for fun. “We do compete, but mostly we like to play chess”, said Mr. Baron. “I also just like to see players improve,” he added.
Students like the positive vibe of the Chess Club. Kailani, a member of the club said, “The atmosphere is great.”
Accoding to Mr. Baron, chess also teaches students skills that are useful for life in general.
“People learn patience, people learn planning ahead, people learn how to interact with each other, and think through difficult problems”, Mr. Baron said.
To learn more about the Chess Club, speak with Mr. Baron or one of the other two teachers mentioned in this article.
In the heart of Patterson, a dedicated group of individuals quietly works behind the scenes, embodying the spirit of community service. While their efforts may go unnoticed by many, the impact they have on the local community is immeasurable.
Meet the Volunteer Brigade, a diverse team of residents committed to making Patterson a better place for everyone. From organizing neighborhood cleanups to supporting local charities, these unsung heroes embody the true essence of community engagement.
In an exclusive interview with Ms Edrolin, a longtime member of the Volunteer Brigade, she shared insights into the group’s history and their ongoing initiatives. “We believe in the power of collective action. Small acts, when multiplied by many, can transform a community,” Ms. Edrolin expressed passionately.
The Volunteer Brigade’s impact extends beyond traditional volunteer work. They have spearheaded initiatives to address social issues, partnering with local organizations to raise awareness about homelessness and advocate for meaningful change. Through a series of community forums, they aim to foster dialogue and encourage residents to actively participate in shaping the future of Patterson.
One of their notable projects involved collaborating with a local school to establish a tutoring program for underprivileged children. The success stories emerging from this initiative highlight the transformative effect of grassroots efforts on individual lives.
To delve deeper into the impact of the Volunteer Brigade, I had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Fleet, a mother of two whose family has directly benefited from their programs.
“Their dedication goes beyond the surface. They genuinely care about the well-being of our community, and it shows in the positive changes we’ve experienced,” Turner shared.
As Patterson continues to grow, the Volunteer Brigade remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the neighborhood’s unique character. Their latest project involves creating a community garden that not only beautifies the area but also promotes sustainable living practices.
In an interview with Patterson’s Principal Myrick, she commended the Volunteer Brigade’s efforts, stating, “Their work aligns with our vision for a vibrant and caring community. Patterson is fortunate to have such dedicated individuals driving positive change.”
The Volunteer Brigade’s story serves as a testament to the transformative power of grassroots initiatives. By shedding light on their endeavors, we hope to inspire more residents to join the cause and contribute to the betterment of Patterson. In a world often filled with headlines dominated by challenges, the Volunteer Brigade stands as a beacon of hope, proving that positive change begins at the community level.
School lunch is a very important part of school and a major topic that needs to be discussed. Currently, school lunch at Patterson is not enough, nor is it nutritious.
I think we should improve our school lunches because it would benefit everyone. It’s something a lot of our students come to school for. When lunch is good, it is one of the most enjoyable parts of school. I think improving school lunch would bring more students to Patterson, because the quality of school lunches is a factor behind children and teenagers changing schools. If we were to improve the lunches, we’d be able to promote that as one more reason why young people should enroll at Patterson.
Whenever people talk about school, one of the most common topics that come up is school lunch and whether it’s good or not. I think it would be beneficial for us to add more food to the plates or give it some sort of improvement that could bring in more students. It would also be nice to add more nutrients to our lunches because a major health factor is whether or not we get enough nutrients in our school lunches.
By improving school food, we should go off of the suggestions made by our students about what they want, specifically the students who usually eat at school. A lot of times students don’t have food at home and they come to school to eat and have lunch. When they don’t get enough or the food is bad, they end up not eating enough, and it’s sad. Although it isn’t the schools problem, we want our students to feel good at school and feel like they have more reasons to come. Another major point of this would be including healthier foods, like more salad bars or fresh fruit.
I think the best way for our school to understand and change would be to have a poll where students can vote on whether or not we should change and improve the school lunches or keep them the same. I think it would be very popular once students understand the changes, because we’re so used to school lunches in their current state. A major change would stir up a lot of activity for our school.
These are the main reasons why our schools should improve school lunches. A lot of us want these changes made and there are many programs working for these kinds of improvements in schools across the country.
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 Patterson wrestling team had a great season this school year. To learn more about what drives the team, the Patterson Press sat down with wrestling Coach Andrews and wrestler Angel. Here is what they had to say:
Coach Andrews
What inspired you to coach the team?
Being a former Patterson varsity wrestler, I’ve seen over the years that many of the wrestlers did not have the technique needed to compete. To be honest, I was not concerned with my impact on the young people being taught to compete at first.
How did you prepare the team?
Preparing the wrestling team has to be ongoing, meaning constant communication and building a relationship between the coach and a wrestler. It’s not just in school; communicating with the parents/guardians and building trust in the key.
How do you feel about your team’s progress?
Progress has been improving since becoming the head coach in 2019. Now, in the 23-24 season, the wrestling program is starting to peak. We now have athletes that are placing in the regional tournaments. Also, the city tournament next year will be exclusive to those who really buy into the coaching.
How much experience do you have with wrestling?
I started wrestling in the eighth grade, from there going to Patterson High School. I made the team as a 10th grader because I was getting better and learning from great coaches. Many of the leaders of the team during the ’80 to ’83 seasons built up the strength of the team and understood Patterson Pride. Helping for all the years going to coaching clinics and competing, I have well over 15 years.
What were your best and worst years?
My worst year was 2019-2020. COVID shut everything down that year. My recruiting list was 179 males and [it was tough] not knowing what the outcome would’ve been. By far my best year was 2022-2023. We had five wrestlers and a winning percentage as individuals. It lets me know we can compete anywhere at the high school level.
Angel (Patterson wrestler)
Who is your biggest motivation?
My biggest inspiration is Coach Andrews. He pushed me to be a greater person.
What do you want to work on?
I want to work on obtaining a degree in engineering.
What did you nail this year that you didn’t last year?
This season I was more [well] rounded, having only lost once. I limited my technique to a handful [of moves], unlike last year where I would get confused and fall short.
How did you feel about your second year?
I feel like I did as much as I could this year with everything I’ve learned.
What’s your favorite wrestling move?
I personally don’t have a favorite move or set up, I take what I learned from all 3 styles of wrestling.
The Patterson Clippers varsity boys basketball team came back from a rough start to what was ultimately a very successful year, ending their season with a final record of 18 wins to 7 losses.
On Tuesday, December 5th, the boys basketball team lost their first game of the season. In a post game interview with Coach Oliver about the team’s performance, the coach felt his team did poorly because they were undisciplined and wanted to do things their way, resulting in 27 turnovers.
“They need to improve on listening and being disciplined. They need to work on every aspect of the game, free throws, running sets, not throwing the ball away, layups and doing what they are told, improving on the basics.”, Coach Oliver had said at the time.
Coach Oliver is the head coach of the boys basketball team. He has been coaching basketball for over 30 years and at Patterson since 2011.
When asked in December about his hopes for the season, Coach Oliver said he hoped that all his seniors graduate and go to school and that his team wins city, regional and state championships.
The Clippers had another game that Friday, December 8th, against Bard where they won 67-15. They went on to accomplish their goals of winning the city championship against Poly by a score of 55-52 and the regional championship against City with a score of 56-52. The team then went on to win their first playoff game against Edgewood, 66-53.
On March 8th, Patterson competed in their second playoff game against Northeast High School, where they narrowly lost by a score of 69-65. The top scorers in that game were:
Sincere Bartfield -25 points
Caleb Burgess – 10 points
Marcellus Dobbins -13 points
Montrell Burgess – 8 points
Amare Carr – 4 points
There were 12 turnovers in that game.
“Northeast out-rebounded us 45-25.”, explained Coach Oliver. “To other people and our supporters we had a good season, but to me the season was trash; we shouldn’t have lost any games.”
The team ended their season with a record of 18-7 and as Coach Oliver acknowledged, the players’ peers and the school are proud of them.
At the time of publishing, senior Trent Tedder is committed to go to Methodist University and Sincere Bartfield–who won the Player of the Year award for Baltimore City–is committed to go to Baltimore City Community College.
Get ready for the 2024-2025 school year and all our boys basketball team has to offer.
The Patterson High School Lady Clippers varsity basketball team ended their season strong with a score of 12 wins and 7 loses. The Lady Clippers did their best throughout the season and came out pretty well overall. They fought their best and tried there hardest to make it to victory. Coach Shaq gave a shout out to Lyikiea Anderson.
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.
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