News Briefs

Science Department Pushes for Tech Gear
The Science Department is trying to find funding for its “classrooms of the future,” complete with upgraded educational equipment. These updates would include a new computer system for each classroom, document cameras, probeware, projectors, screens and other useful tools.

This equipment is designed to help students understand the material being presented in the class and conduct relevant experiments, an important and integral part of any science class.

According to physics teacher Adam Randall, the approximate cost to outfit all nine of the science classrooms would probably be around $500,000.

Currently there is no funding for this project, but Randall believes that if the department receives the money, they would greatly “enhance the educational experience and better prepare kids for college.”

District to Upgrade Emergency Kits
According to MVLA Technical Liaison Member Catherine Vonnegut, the district hopes to have an emergency kit in every classroom soon. These kits would be utilized in case of a school-wide disaster such as a Code Red emergency when students may be stuck inside classrooms for an extensive period of time.

Currently, the schools are equipped with general emergency supplies for a widespread emergency, but do not have them in every single classroom.

The district has been trying to coordinate with the schools and have an “even implementation of the emergency system.” According to Vonnegut, it is difficult to say right now, but the kits, equipped with the recommended flashlight, radio, first aid, food and sanitation will probably cost around $50 per classroom.

Wall of Rejection in the Works for Seniors
A Wall of Rejection, where seniors can anonymously place their rejection letters from colleges, is being considered for the school.

The Wall of Rejection has been a tradition at other schools like the Menlo School and is considered a symbol of resistance and comfort for the rejected students. At these schools, seniors who put up their rejection letters often receive support from fellow students through encouraging comments on the wall.

According to senior Lisa Kellman, who suggested the idea, plans are being considered by the administration. It will most likely be in an English classroom if approved.

“It’s supposed to bring people together,” Lisa said. “It’s not meant to make students feel bad … but to help them realize that everyone is going through that same pressure and stress.”