The CHIEF September 2019

SEPT, 2019

The

PONTIAC TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

UPPERCLASS ACTS

WELCOME BACK Read a welcome back message from the Student Council President.

Check out which PTHS seniors are this month's Upperclass Acts!

table of contents

03 Letter from the Editors

04 Student Council President

06 Cop Shop

07 European Vacation

08 New Teacher Interview

11 Upperclass Acts

13 Movie Review

03

03

06

11

50

69

The

CHIEF

www.pontiac90.org

Freshmen & Sophomores, you are still getting the hang of things - study hard but remember to have fun! Juniors, this year is the most important and it can get stressful, don ’ t forget to step back and breathe. Seniors, we made it; our last year of high school. Time flew by, didn ’ t it? We will soon be off into the real world. Make this year count. We hope you are all ready for the year! Let ’ s make it a good one!

A NOTE FROM YOUR EDITOR

By Sunn y Ho l t

Welcome Back from The Chief!

Welcome to the 2019-2020 edition of The Chief! We hope you all enjoyed your summer! We are glad to be back and ready to cover all school news for the year. As we begin the new school year, remember to remain focused and stay on top of your studies.

If you are interested in writing for The CHIEF, please contact Dr. Soares, Mr. Blair, Joe Gilmor, or myself!

Sunny Holt Co-Editor-in-Chief

N O M A D I C |

2 4

AWelcoming Message By: Sam Sipe

Hey Pontiac Township High School Student Body! This is your Student Council President Samantha Sipe! I hope everyone had a great summer but are ready to get back into the swing of things here at PTHS. The four years you have in high school are important so be ready, stay ahead, and do not procrastinate! Also, always remember to be respectful and kind to those around you who want the best for you! Your teachers and peers want you to succeed just as much as you do! Each year of high school will bring on new challenges but the most important thing to do is to face them head on and get ahead of the game! To the freshmen: don’t be scared, be open to change, and get INVOLVED! To the sophomores: you have a hang of things now, but keep putting effort into everything you do. To the juniors: time to start thinking about your future and make sure to study for your ACT and SAT! To the seniors: we are almost to the end of our high school career so enjoy everything you can and don’t take anything for granted! I hope everyone has a great 2019-2020 school year!! GO PTHS!

Interview with Principal Bohm By: Joe Gilmor

Hello, everybody, and thanks for tuning in to this month’s edition of The Chief! Since this is our first publication of the school year, we here at The Chief would like to start things out right with some insight from our principal, Mr. Bohm. I recently was granted the opportunity to interview Mr. Bohm, and would now like to share with you a few of the things we discussed. While speaking of the administration’s goals, Mr. Bohm stated that they have not changed all that much in the past several years, and still are geared towards increasing student attendance and graduation rates. The methods with which the administration is achieving these goals have, however, seen some recent changes. For example, freshmen students now have the opportunity to scout out both Illinois State University and Heartland Community College throughout the school year, allowing them to get a head start on life after high school. The administration is also continuing to provide additional tutoring for students in need, has purchased new computer software to allow students to recover lost credits, and is working with both students and staff to improve our PTHS community. Mr. Bohm is proud to be working for PTHS because of its unique offerings to both students and the community. PTHS has seen a massive (roughly 13%) increase to its graduation rate over the past several years, and has a current passage rate of over 98%, a feat almost unheard of for schools of similar size in our area. On top of that, PTHS takes the cake on its diverse selection of athletics, clubs, and other extracurricular opportunities, in which Mr. Bohm strongly encourages students to participate. According to Mr. Bohm, “high school should be a time of exploration” and students should do whatever they can to get involved with their school community. Mr. Bohm would like to leave one last piece of advice for our freshmen, and others who have yet to participate in activities outside of the classroom: “Take advantage of the opportunities that are afforded to you. PTHS offers clubs/activities and athletic programs for all students to be involved and make new friends. High school should be a time of exploration. Take courses that interest and challenge you academically. Do not fear making mistakes- that is how we all learn!”

I am hoping to get into more classrooms this year, but in the past I have spoken in Driver ’ s Ed, discussing traffic laws and Driving Under the Influence. I also spend time in Mr. Bristow ’ s Law Enforcement classes throughout the year on different topics related to Law Enforcement and my experiences over the past several years. My third responsibility as an SRO, is as an informal counselor/mentor to those just may need someone to listen to them. I have told others in the past, if I do not have an answer, or the help you are looking for, I can always get you to the right resource. I have an door is open, just come in and we can chat. Even if you do not necessarily have an issue bothering you, maybe you just have questions about my job, or anything else, just stop in. It is extremely important to me to understand where students ’ concerns lie and what I can do to help. I want to thank you for making last year the most enjoyable year of my policing career thus far, and I am looking forward to serving you again this year! - Ofc. Brian Enderli, School Resource Officer “ open-door ” policy toward students and staff. If my

COP SHOP

By O f f i c e r Ende r l i

Welcome back everyone! I hope you all enjoyed summer break and have had a good start to the school year. I want to take a few minutes to explain what I, as the School Resource Officer (SRO), do inside the schools. First, I am a sworn police officer, who has been trained to serve and protect the community. So, my main focus while serving both Pontiac School Districts is safety and security of the students, staff, and community members. I work with students and staff to maintain a safe learning environment for everyone. With safety being my number one priority, I urge you to inform a staff/faculty member, or myself, if you see/hear something that could be a threat to oneself or others.

You may also see me in classrooms throughout the year, speaking on various topics related to law.

EUROPEAN ADVENTURE By : Sunny Hol t The Trip of a Lifetime This summer, a group from PTHS was given the opportunity to travel overseas to France, Italy, and the French Riviera. Fortunately, I was able to attend this trip of a lifetime. Since I was a little girl, I had dreams of traveling to these places. I was given the privilege of seeing four countries and numerous cities, all at the age of seventeen. It was amazing; the croissants, pasta, chocolate… ooh la la! This was absolutely a trip of a lifetime.

New Teacher Interiview: Mr. Hobart

By Joseph Gilmor

Mr. Vincent Hobart is one of the newest additions to our PTHS teaching staff, carrying the torch of beloved former Autos teacher Mr. Chuck Prong.

Mr. Hobart spent the majority of his childhood here in Pontiac, where he attended PTHS and participated in both FFA and wrestling, before moving to Oklahoma his senior year of high school. After graduating high school, Mr. Hobart attended Oklahoma State University, where he majored in mechanical and biological engineering. Mr. Hobart received an internship in his chosen field of study, which soon turned into a full time job. Mr. Hobart’s employment took him all across the globe, and he eventually wound up back home here in Pontiac. When asked about his opinions on PTHS, Mr. Hobart stated that he loved the unique atmosphere of PTHS. He says that finding such a talented and caring group of teachers is not all too common in his experience, and that the teachers here at PTHS seem to be actively engaged in the education and the future of their students. Although Mr. Hobart is still becoming acquainted with his new position at PTHS, he already has formed some strong opinions about our educational environment. Mr. Hobart believes all students should become involved with their school, and interact with others in the student body, as learning is an experience best shared with others. He also encourages students to think globally, and to look for opportunities both in and beyond small town Pontiac, Illinois. Mr. Hobart may be new to PTHS, but he has already made a positive impression on his students, and we hope that he will continue to share his experience and expertise with the rest of us in the PTHS community for many years to come.

Friday Night Lights

By Alyssa Rodriguez

Fall is the season of back to school and the beloved Friday night lights. The football team has put many hours into practicing for the season. The first taste of how the teams were going to play were showcased at the annual Orange and Blue game. The scrimmage proved to show a strong Varsity and Junior Varsity team. The first official game was August 30th at Williamson field. This home game allowed for the Indians to start the season off on the right foot by taking the win, 8-7. Facing Central Catholic allowed for the Indians to see their strengths and weaknesses and that will allow them to continue working towards a goal. The Varsity team seems to work together well and suggests a promising football season for the Pontiac Indians. On the evening of the 2nd of September, the JV team played their first game. Although the Indians lost, it was a game that all put hard work into. Since the season just started, there are plenty more wins hopefully in store for the Pontiac Indian teams.

Choir Update By Alyssa Rodriguez

As the school year starts, the choir program starts to work on pieces right off the bat for their first concert. The Fall Choral Concert will happen Sunday, October 21st at 3 pm. Along with the upcoming concert, Concert Choir begins to also work on music to be performed at the homecoming game and on the Tour of Schools. Even though the main focus is on the in class choirs and really putting in the work for a great concert, many smaller groups have started putting in practices for branches of what the music program does. For example, both the Madrigal singers and the Court singers have begun working on music for the Madrigal dinners that occur in the month of December. While it is early in the season, the performers of the choir program start off with strong practices that will surely make for great concerts and shows this year.

Marley's Quick Notes By Marley Noles

Unified Sports Want to get involved in athletics, but you don’t feel like you belong to any team? I can promise that Unified Sports is a great option for you. Anyone can be involved as a Peer Partner, and PTHS offers four opportunities for you to be! There is Unified Soccer, Basketball, and Bass Fishing. You can compete at the same competitive level as any other team without worrying about perfection. Be on the lookout for the sign-up for a Unified Sport! Cheerleading While Homecoming week is September 29th to October 5th, the cheerleaders have been creating and practicing their routines and dances for over a month. For many of the cheerleaders, this is their last year spreading school spirit. Carli Smetzer, a senior on the cheerleading team, said, “This year of cheer is bittersweet because it's the last and I’m excited for senior nights because they’re exciting and very memorable but sad.” After homecoming, the team immediately starts preparing for the competition season. With each competition, these athletes find ways to improve even the tiniest details to make their routines the best as possible. Make sure to support the cheerleaders and all the hard work they put into their sport. Volunteering You can make a difference that matters to you! Outside of Key Club, you can find volunteer opportunities that you feel connected to. First, find an organization that you feel a personal connection to, or one you have benefited from. Then you can brainstorm ways to volunteer your time or raise money. This includes having a bake sale, doing a fundraiser, or asking what you can do to help! Volunteering also helps with personal enrichment. It can be fulfilling, and also help with college applications and getting scholarships!

Freshman Learning Community By Sunny Holt

At PTHS, having students attend a comfortable and caring environment is a top priority. For incoming freshmen, Pontiac Township eases the transition to high school and ensures a safe and comforting learning environment. Most freshmen say they prefer the FLC over being thrown into the school with zero guidance. When I was a freshman, the FLC helped me tremendously. I was an anxious teenager who definitely wouldn’t have been prepared for the ups and downs the first year of high school brought if it wasn’t for the Freshmen Learning Community. It brings guidance and a sense of comfort to the introduction of a new school. What are your thoughts on the FLC? Email me at 20sholt@pontiac90.org and let me know!

Upperclass Acts

Brienna Weaver

NICKNAME: B-weave

ROLE MODEL(S): My parents and my grandparents

FAVORITE AUTHOR/BOOK: Between Shades of Grey by Ruta Sepetys

ACTIVITIES @ PTHS: Tennis, Track and Field, Madrigals, Jazz Choir, Member of National Honor Society, Tri-M, Thespians Society, Key Club, Student Council, and Tutoring FONDEST MEMORY OF HIGH SCHOOL SO FAR: My fondest memory of high school so far is at football games right before our team takes the field and everyone is cheering while our fight song is being played by the band.

MOST POSITIVE MOMENT: My most positive moment I have experienced during my high school career is when my class united as one during Homecoming week. PET PEEVES: Do not chew with your mouth open. Do tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible (time is money!). Be respectful to everyone (treat others the way you want to be treated).

3 MAJOR AREAS OF INTEREST: Science, Music, Travel

WHAT MY FRIENDS WILL REMEMBER ABOUT ME: I think they will remember my laugh and my kindness

PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL: I plan to go to college where I will major in Biology to eventually become a doctor.

HOW WOULD YOU SPEND $1,000,000?: I would invest it into stocks.

IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT 3 ITEMS WOULD YOU WANT WITH YOU?: A pot, a fire-starter, and a knife LAST WORDS OF ADVICE: Try a little bit of everything in high school. It is a great way to figure out what you might like.”

FAVORITE MOVIE: Avengers: Endgame

MOST INSPIRATIONAL SONG: “The Defining Moment” by Pink Zebra

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Nollen and Mrs. Francis

Upperclass Acts

Rocco Sartoris

NICKNAMES: Rocky

FAVORITE AUTHOR/BOOK: The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

ROLE MODEL(S): Mr. Cal Hackler

MOST POSITIVE MOMENT: Winning multiple games against the team that got second place in the tennis state tournament

ACTIVITIES @ PTHS: Golf and tennis

FONDEST MEMORY OF HIGH SCHOOL SO FAR: Making it to state for tennis twice

PET PEEVES: Bad drivers

WHAT MY FRIENDS WILL REMEMBER ABOUT ME: My friendly personality and my funny sense of humor HOW WOULD YOU SPEND $1,000,000? I would invest a majority of it and donate a portion to a charity that helps shelters the homeless. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT 3 ITEMS WOULD YOU WANT WITH YOU? A knife, a water jug, and a flashlight. LAST WORDS OF ADVICE: “If you have no idea what you want to do in life, take some new classes that go out of your comfort zone. It’ll be worth it.”

3 MAJOR AREAS OF INTEREST: Engineering, science, and math

PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL: Nuclear program in the United States Navy

FAVORITE MOVIE: Under Siege

MOST INSPIRATIONAL SONG: “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins

FAVORITE TEACHER/CLASS: Mr. Hackler/Physics

Film Review

Alita: Battle Angel Review by: Jasmine White

Alita: Battle Angel is a fantastic movie to see if you want to watch a thriller and sci-fi movie with fantastic details, scenes, and character development. Throughout the whole movie, the scenes and the characters are certainly detailed. For example, Alita gets a new “berserker” that is very “sci-fi looking.” In addition, the fighting scenes are very good, especially one where Alita fights multiple hunter warriors. This scene helps us understand more of Alita of her fighting skills and her goal. Lastly, the movie had great character development, including Alita herself because she does not have memories of her past in the beginning. As the movie goes on, she gets some snippets of memories to helps us learn more about her. In the end, I rate this movie a 5 out of 5 stars.

The Chief Staff

Looking to get Involved?

Sunny Holt: Co Editor-in-Chief Joe Gilmor: Co Editor-in-Chief

Luke Morrissette Marley Noles Alyssa Rodriguez

Lauren Smith Jasmine White

One great way to get involved at PTHS is by joining the staff of this school newspaper, The CHIEF! If you are interested in having your voice heard and joining our staff, please talk to Sunny Holt, Joe Gilmor, Mr. Blair, or Dr. Soares!

Mr. Blair, Faculty Sponsor Dr. Soares, Faculty Sponsor

Enjoy creative writing? If you ever would ever like to see your creative pieces in The Chief , contact Dr. Soares or Mr. Blair!

Made with FlippingBook Annual report