The CHIEF December 2025

Opinion UNPOPULAR

By: Kaisha Evans

Hoodies and sweatshirts are staples for many, especially in the cold seasons. These essential pieces are constantly influenced by trending brands and patterns, and most of the time, that's okay. I can see the appeal for most popular clothing, even if it's not my personal style, but there is one trending sweatshirt I'll never understand. The PARKE mock neck sweatshirts have been a best seller over the past two years. The company generated $16 million in revenue in 2024 alone, with sweatshirts accounting for a significant majority of sales. The PARKE sweatshirt is known for its “trending neckline” and “varsity style lettering,” but in my opinion, they are a waste of $125. First, the mock neck is a fleeting micro trend that I will be happy to see go. It's like making your neck disappear on purpose, and don't get me started on the fabric around the neck. Has anyone ever actually been comfortable with a thick ring of fabric around their neck all day? Onto the lettering: to me, this varsity-style sweatshirt is an overdone and pricey detail, considering it covers the entire front of the sweatshirt. The brand logo across the sweatshirt is not timeless and screams, “Hey, look at me, I paid $125 for a sweatshirt because it was trending.” In conclusion, when choosing to participate in trends this season, do not be swayed by the popularity of an item. Instead, consider the price point, wearability once the trend is over, and comfort. So save your $125 this holiday season and buy a nice non-PARKE related gift for someone special, or donate to charity!

Teacher Appreciation By: Laila Bekirovski

Our school has many amazing teachers, but one I would like to thank is Mr. McElwee, although most students know him better as Mr. Mac or, affectionately, T Dawg. His classroom is not just a place to learn English, it is a space where creativity, curiosity, and individuality are genuinely welcomed. Mr. McElwee is known for his eccentric personality, which immediately sets him apart. From his expressive storytelling to his unexpected jokes and animated discussions, his lessons never feel dull or routine. You never quite know what to expect when you walk into his classroom, and that unpredictability makes learning exciting. Reading a novel or analyzing a poem with Mr. McElwee feels less like an assignment and more like a shared experience.

What truly makes Mr. McElwee special, however, is how inviting he is to his students. He creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable speaking up, even if they are unsure of their answer. He listens carefully, values different perspectives, and encourages students to think deeply and critically without the fear of being judged. In his classroom, students are not just learners, they are thinkers whose voices matter. Mr. McElwee also has a unique way of connecting with students on a personal level. He takes the time to understand their interests, challenges, and strengths, and he uses that understanding to help them grow, both academically and personally. Whether he is offering thoughtful feedback on an essay or a quick word of encouragement in the hallway, it is clear that he genuinely cares about his students’ success.

So, I would like to say thank you to a very valued member of our community who inspires his students every day to be passionate about learning and enjoying their high school experience.