The Truth About NWR Recycling

By: Emily Young 

With landfill space decreasing and pollution increasing, the need for environmental change is growing significantly. Recycling is important for multiple reasons, including that it helps tremendously in reducing waste and saving energy. Hearing rumors that North Warren does not carry out it’s recycling system  was appalling and unbelievable to say the least. According to several students, janitors were seen dumping both the recyclables and trash into the same container at the end of the day. What is the real story behind this rumor? It was time to find out.

North Warren Regional has been very successful in finding ways to eliminate waste in the past. A hydration station was placed in the high school to encourage the use of reusable water bottles, and paper towel dispensers were even replaced with electric hand dryers. Just recently, printer codes were established to help maintain and limit the amount of paper being used. These steps were taken to, of course, save money, but to also be environment friendly.

Due to North Warren’s green status, the said rumors about recycling seemed very improbable. The Patriot Press was lucky enough to land an interview with custodian Judy Cook to get more information on the recycling system. Cook explained that both recycling and trash receptacles are put onto barrel casters for easier handling at the end of the day. They are then wheeled into the back janitorial office, near the band room, and separated into larger containers according to their bin. In short, the trash is put into the trash container, and the recycling is put into the recycling container.

As stated in NJ’s School Recycling Manual, “...recyclables collected by the school are products; NOT TRASH.” The interview held with Judy Cook confirmed that North Warren Regional stands with this message. NWR’s environment-friendly history did not match up with the speculation of an unprincipled recycling process. The rumor of this school having a “corrupt recycling system” can be concluded inaccurate altogether.

North Warren’s Annual Holiday Assembly

By: Mary Reduzzi

Every year, North Warren celebrates the beginning of its winter holiday break by putting on its annual Holiday assembly. The assembly is open to all students to perform a number of talents, and even offers students a chance to receive extra credit to perform with their classes. The holiday assembly accentuates North Warren’s own talented singers, dancers, and instrumentalists. Even teachers like Mr. Messina, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Z, Mr. Lowe and Ms. Koppinger are taking part in the tradition by putting together a teacher-student musical group which includes a select number of jazz band members.

North Warren’s holiday assembly brings the entire school together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas, not only in our culture, but in the German culture as well. We will again enjoy Mr. Bridge’s annual rap performance, entirely in the German language!

If you or a group of friends are interested in performing in this year’s celebration, contact Mr. Bridge for information. As a student who has attended this assembly for four years, I can confirm that it never fails to put me in the Christmas spirit and prepare me for the festive week ahead.

New Bathroom Passes - Convenient or Not?

By: Natalie Stefankiewicz

As many of you know, our school has a new policy when leaving the classroom. In years past, and for as long as I’ve been attending North Warren, students have always used an agenda provided by the school to sign out for the bathroom. This year that system has completely changed. Each classroom now has two plastic bathroom passes, the room number engraved on each.

In the past, many students have abused their bathroom privileges, so our school decided this was a solution. By using these passes our school believes we will be able to keep track of who is out of each classroom and limit the number of people wandering the halls. This is definitely a good point, but these passes also have negatives to them.

In many rooms that I have classes in, there is now only one pass due to students being irresponsible and losing the other. This means that only one student can be out of the classroom at each time for that specific class.

The real question is, what do our students think is best for our school? While talking to some friends at lunch I got their personal opinions. When asked the question “What is your overall opinion on the new bathroom passes” Ava Tanis replied “I think the bathroom passes are effective, however, I prefer agendas.” When asked why she felt this way she replied “Agendas are much more sanitary than passing the same pass around to different students each period.”

When asking Alana Vitiello the same questions she replied, “I think the new passes have their purpose, but agendas are more sanitary and would work better. I would rather have an agenda because not only is it your own, but you don’t have to wait for the other people using the passes to get back to the classroom.” Erin Fowles agreed saying “I think that they are inconvenient and if you lose one in a classroom; then, only one person can go to the bathroom at a time.”

I got a different perspective when interviewing Ms. Ritchie, Dean of Students here at North Warren. She said “This year we formed a committee of staff members and we call it the Academic Review Committee. The committee looks at things that we want to change and gives us their opinion. This summer we met a bunch of times with this group of staff and one of the things I presented to them was the pass system. The way it came up was that the agenda books were causing the teachers a lot more disruptions during their classes. The kids would walk up to the teacher and hand them the book. This would lead the teacher to being interrupted. We want kids to be more independent, so the academic committee came up with an idea that students could just go up and log out somehow and grab something and leave. That’s how the plan was formed. I personally believe that the new passes are a less distracting method that teaches students responsibility and how to be independent.”

The majority of the answers I got from students were the same. The new bathroom passes are not as efficient, sanitary, and overall well liked compared to past systems. From what I collected from the teacher stand point is that these new bathroom passes are more efficient in the classroom. Although there are some positives to these new passes many students do not like how the new system works. Will the system ever change? This is something we won’t know for a while. If there are more positive results with the new passes then my prediction is that they will become permanent.

AP Class Drops Add to Student Frustration

By: Jack Swistak and Sam Dwornikowski

This year, North Warren dropped some of its AP classes and in general, students are upset. After speaking with students, we concluded that most were disappointed because something they were passionate about was taken away; they had been working their entire high school careers for exclusive AP classes. This is not good for several reasons. Let’s say student needs a specific AP class for college, but by the time he or she reaches senior year that class was dropped. Some colleges require certain courses for students to partake in independent study, and that students is now out of luck.

So, what is the point of dropping the classes? Of course, a low number of students makes it difficult to run; however, if both the student and the teacher are eager and available would it not be possible for them to have the class? If time did not allow it, why can’t a private study still count for official credit? Why shouldn’t students be able to showcase time management, work ethic, and most importantly, passionate initiative?

Abby Sikkes, a senior who planned to take an AP Studio class says, “I feel like ultimately, it's a failure on the administration’s part, that they don't regard the arts at a high enough level to run the class. They felt, for whatever reason, that it was reasonable enough to cut it.” Furthermore, she states, “This cut has drastically affected me. I must juggle other AP classes, personal life, a job, my senior year, as well as find time to do art. I don’t have a period dedicated to only art which saddens and frustrates me. I have study halls, but I use them for AP work. Over all, I was really, really looking forward to a senior year with AP studio; however, I got jipped. I'm missing out on a big opportunity to improve my art and to learn in a classroom environment.”

According to Ms. Richardson, school guidance counselor, the administrators have control of the classes, and drop classes that have less kids, and basically “What they say goes.” There is a thought that they could possibly rotate every year so that more AP classes are covered.

Perhaps soon, the administration will allow private studies to count for credit or find a way to allow smaller classes, so that their students can finish high school knowing that they have accomplished all that they desire, and all that they need to prepare them for their next journey.  

It’s Never Too Late to Join a Club

By:  Mary Reduzzi and Xavier Starrs

Last month, North Warren held its very first club fair during unit lunch to advertise the various organizations and clubs that make up our school community. There was a great student turn out and we are able to provide some helpful club information for you all:

The School Store club is headed by Mrs. Baier and welcomes members of all grade levels. Our school store aims to spread North Warren spirit and positivity through selling apparel, school supplies, and much more available to the students. Open every day during unit lunch, our school store hopes to see new faces supporting its club and its mission.

The Robotics Club, headed by Mr. Biery and Mr Snyder, is divided into a high school club and a feeder middle school club. The club is excited to compete and to hopefully win some more competitions and is looking for members of all ages to help with their quest.

WNWR, the club infamous for its morning school announcements, is advised by Mr Biery. Open to all high schoolers and operating during unit lunch, WNWR hopes to bring the North Warren news to you in a funny and creative way, every day. The small club is currently looking for members interested in photography, video editing, and filming.

Spanish Honor Society is a prestigious club for all students with a knack for the Spanish language. Advised by Mrs. Abbiate-Tirado, the club looks to impact its school and community through the Spanish culture. Each year the SHS hosts the multicultural fair, a huge community event. To join this club you have to be nominated as a freshman or sophomore by one of your Spanish teachers for your academic excellence, and only then can you be inducted into the society.

The Patriot Press, the club coming to you with this piece, is advised by Ms. Koppinger and Mr. Steingall. The club aims to give you its take on the world around us, from our school community, to our world community in the form of creative writing posts. The club meets twice every month during unit lunch.

The Junior Statesmen of America Club (JSA) is headed by Mrs. Murphy and is the political club of North Warren. The club debates hot-button issues and learns the workings of the United States government. In previous years, JSA has held mock elections for president, mayor, and other issues. Currently, the club is looking for more politically savvy students to diversify their debate community.

The Leo Club, another community service club, is advised by Mrs. Matash. The club aims to impact the community as the school’s Lions Club. The club hosts a table each year for the safe trick or treat and does collections of items to give away. They also meet once a week. Joining the Leo Club is a great way to give back to your school and community.

Gender and Sexuality Alliance Club (GSA) is a club dedicated to create a safe environment for people of all orientations. The club aims to create an awareness in our community and to ensure the equality of people with all different interests. The club is recognized by their rainbow flag and pride for their differences.

Math League is a competitive club headed by Mrs. Pergola. Every few weeks a competition is held to see who knows their math the best. The competitions cover everything from algebra to geometry to pre-calculus.

The FBLA Club (Future Business Leaders of America) aids students to prepare for careers in business through leadership development and educational programs. Headed by Mrs. Baier, this club welcomes members of all grade levels and takes part in fundraising and competitions periodically. Students that join FBLA are eligible for benefits that include: scholarships, publications, and award and recognition programs.

The Art National Honors Society is an organization open to high school students passionate about drawing, painting, and pottery. Anyone taking an art class qualifies to join the club, led by Ms. Dewey. This society is perfect for the expression of creativity and individuality.

It’s the perfect time to join the ski club! If you like to ski or snowboard all winter long, take some trips with the North Warren Ski Club open to grades 7-12 and see advisor Ms. Abbiate-Tirado for information.

The German Club, led by Mr. Bridge, is the best place to connect with the German culture and language. This club welcomes all grade levels, with all different levels of experience, and meets a few times a month to enjoy traditional German foods and to immerse itself in heritage, arts, and literature.

Mrs. Scocozza and Ms. Roman head the Peer Leadership Club, a group dedicated to reaching out to help younger students in our school community. Feel free to join fellow peer leaders even if you are not a member of this club, and take part in field trips, service programs, and leadership seminars. All high school students are welcome to join.

The Friends of Rachel Club was founded in memory of Rachel Scott, the first student attacked in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. This club is based upon reducing violence, serving others, and spreading positive messages to those who may need it most. It is open to all grade levels 7-12. If you want to take part in helping your local community, see Mrs. Richardson for information.

The North Warren Yearbook Club is always looking for some assistance on half days to sell snacks and drinks in order to fund our school’s yearbook production, and Mrs. Wetzel and Mrs. Harris welcome all high school students interested. In the yearbook club, students will be able to take pictures for, design, and advertise the school yearbook.

Ms. Abbiate is the head of North Warren’s Interact Club, where students volunteer hours of their time to local groups and individuals in need. Occasionally working with the Blairstown Rotary and Blair Woman’s Club, the Interact Club is a widespread and renowned organization, open to 8-12 graders. If you want to dedicate your time towards something fun while feeling great about it, grab a friend and go to a meeting, held every Tuesday morning in room 27!

Shooting for the stars this school year? Join the Astronomy Club, a group of amateur astronomers who take part in public meetings and astronomical observing sessions. Led by Dale Skran of the NWJAA, this club is open to any highschool student, just submit your name, mailing address, email, and phone number to info@nwjaa.org. Meetings take place 6 times a year: April - June, and September - November, and are held at Alan's house, near Blairstown.

High Stakes for Boys' Soccerfest Game 2018

                                                         by: Austin Holden 

“Everyone understands the importance of this game and what’ll happen if we lose.” This is what the Varsity Captain, Dominic Prezioso, said when asked about the game against Belvidere this Saturday. The North Warren Patriots will be faced against the Belvidere Seaters in a crucial match for both sides. The game is scheduled to start at 6:30pm at the home of the Patriots.

 The Patriots are searching for their first win of the season against the Seaters to improve to a 1-3 record. When team captain, Dominic Prezioso, was asked how the team felt about the opposition he said, “We have to work really hard and give it one-hundred percent, they seem to be decent, and we are both hungry for a win.” This game is vital to the team’s chances of making states this year. If they fail to beat Belvidere they will fall to 0-4, with an arduous schedule ahead of them. With many teams doubting the North Warren Patriots, as they lost many key players from last year, they are looking to make a statement.

Although the team has struggled in the first stretch of games this season, they are still trying to keep their heads up. When questioned about the team’s morale, Dominic responded with, “Right now we are bummed about being 0-3, but this game could be what we need.” He continued with, “This could change our season completely. We are hungry for that win.” The team has learned from its past fixtures and are ready to turn the season around. In his final statement, Prezioso said, “Everyone understands the importance of this game and what will happen if we lose. Everyone knows what needs to be done on Saturday and we can’t wait.” The team is ready to transform its season into a great one with a win against Belvidere.

Both teams are prepared for an intense game this Saturday. The Patriots are ready to turn things around and are looking to make a statement to all their doubters. Although they have had a rough start, they are set to put up a fight and get the win. Let’s Go Patriots!

New Schedule Review

By Tim Baier

     As we all know, North Warren began running on a rotating drop schedule this year. According to the North Warren website, a drop schedule is described as: Classes follow separate morning, and after lunch rotational patterns. All 8 classes meet 3 times every 4 days. Students meet for 6 out of their 8 classes each day. Each day, one class is "dropped" in the morning rotation; another class is "dropped" in the after lunch rotation.

     This schedule was adopted on belief that it would have positive effects on education and efficiency. The schedule allows for extended period length, meaning that teachers can create longer, more in depth lessons to better their students’ educations. It is also helpful when student athletes need to leave for a game, as they will not have to miss the same class every time. Lunch is 46 minutes long, but for students with science labs that need extra time, the first 25 minutes of lunch are used for labs.

     When the idea for the schedule was first introduced, many people believed that it would be a disaster because the whole school ate lunch at the same time. For those that supported it, it was thought that lunches could be used for students to get extra, more personalized help. They also thought that lunches could be used for club meetings rather than having them before and after school.

     As the first few weeks of school began, people realized that lunch was not crowded especially with outside seating availability. Students and teachers alike were favoring the new schedule. As Mr. Haupt observed, science classes did not lose any time, even though they had less labs. Clubs utilized lunch availability, but some students were struggling to remember what classes they had on a Day 1 compared to a Day 2. This issue was mostly resolved except for the occasional brain fart where someone would walk into the wrong class.

     The most irritating flaw of the schedule is that half days do not contain a lunch period. Some teachers, such as Mrs. Baier say that they let their students eat in their class to make up for the lost lunch time. Another flaw, mainly for students that are involved in many clubs activities and science labs such as Katie Reduzzi, say that having all of these meetings during lunch sometimes interferes with labs or other meetings. Some days, students are left with no time to actually eat any lunch, while others there is plenty of time to eat, study, and socialize.

     The overall opinion on the new schedule is favorable. Students like having longer lunches, which they use for homework or socializing. They like not having every class everyday because it breaks up the day. The downfalls however, are that classes are long and sometimes drag on. Also, days get skipped because of snow days which takes time away from classes.