Featured

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Kubinski

*Brooklyn School Assistant Principal*

By: Grace Paul

October 16, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Kubinski, first-year assistant principal in the Brooklyn School. Previously, Mrs. Kubinski worked in another district for five years. An interesting fact about her is that she worked in the Brooklyn City Schools (before returning this year) as a fourth-grade teacher, team leader, and seventh-grade science teacher.

Q. Why did you decide to move from the classroom into school administration?

A. “I love seeing how things work at a larger level. I wanted an opportunity to lead and have an impact on the school community in a different capacity while seeing the bigger picture.”

Q. If you could go back to your first year as a principal, what piece of advice would you give yourself?

A. “I would give myself grace and time to ‘figure it out’.”

Q. What is your favorite part about your job? What’s the most challenging?

A. “There are two things that are my ‘favorite’ part of being an administrator.  First is the growth that students make. I was in my last building for five years, and nothing prepares you for seeing the year-to-year growth students make. You get to experience students learning over time not only about academics and about behavior but about figuring out who they are as a person. The second thing I love is creating a sense of community. When staff, families, and students all come together, we can create a safe space we are proud of. The most challenging thing is that you have to think on your toes, and there is always something new. You cannot predict how your day is going to go, and you have to be okay with that as an administrator.”

Q. What makes Brooklyn different from other districts?

A. “Brooklyn is a small, close-knit community who is proud of their roots. It’s a community that welcomes you in with open arms.”

Q. What kind of music, books, or movies do you turn to when you want to relax?

A. “My favorite shows are Ted Lasso and Dancing with the Stars. I love to read books, and mysteries/thrillers are my favorite. I also listen to true crime podcasts. I love many different genres of movies, and my favorite (and has been since sixth grade) is The Sandlot.”

Q. What is your favorite vacation spot?

A. “My husband and I love going to Europe, and we try to go to a different country each Summer. We have been to so many incredible places. This Summer, we are planning on starting in Spain since my brother just moved there. I also am a massive Disney fan and will never say no to a Disney trip.”

Q. What are some things on your bucket list?

A. “Traveling to places I haven’t been to, such as Australia, Iceland, Japan, anywhere in South America, and Egypt. Also, seeing the Olympics (any sport/season) in person.”

Q. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of school?

A. “I play volleyball year round. I ride my bike and walk a ton. My husband and I foster kittens until they are big enough for adoption for the Cleveland Animal Protective League. We currently have three kittens named Cloudy, Chance, and Meatball. I love to crochet and read as well.”

Thank you for your responses, Mrs. Kubinski. I wish you all the best in your first full year as an Assistant Principal here in the Brooklyn City School District. Welcome back!

Featured

Setting the Legacy

By: BHS Sports Staff

October 15, 2026

Volleyball is a fun, energetic sport in which teamwork is a necessity for success. This formula was put to the test last night as the Lady Hurricanes welcomed in the visiting Lady Trojans from Trinity High school.

The opening set kicked off with high energy, but the Lady Trojans managed to grab the early momentum taking the first set by a score of 25-19. The Lady Hurricanes, however, refused to back down.

The hosts stormed onto the court for the second set on a high note when they dominated the opening rally by slamming down the first two points to electrify the student section. Trinity fought back to capture the lead, but the Lady Hurricanes answered right back, trading powerful momentum, swings, and reclaiming control of the court. The Lady Hurricanes kept fighting for every ball, diving for saves, communicating, and working together to keep their rally alive. Their determination and teamwork showed just how much they wanted to make Senior Night a memorable one (more on this later). Unfortunately, the Lady Trojans had the slight upper hand and ended the second set with a close 25-23 mark.

The do-or-die third set brought even more determination from the Lady Hurricanes as they continued to fight for every point through strong serves, powerful hits, and exciting rallies. The seniors showed their dedication and leadership by making the final set another memorable moment. Ultimately, the Lady Hurricanes dropped the third and final set 25-20 as the Lady Trojans left Brooklyn with a sweep.

Although the night was about the competition on the court, it was also a special moment to recognize the seniors who helped build the team’s legacy. Their hard work, dedication, and leadership throughout the season was on full display as they played in front of their family, friends, and fellow students.

Senior night was a reminder that volleyball is about more than winning and losing. It is about the memories made and the friendships built, and while the final scoreboard might not have followed the wanted script, the night completely belonged to an amazing group of seniors in Brooklyn Figueroa, Gianna Kos, Mia Glover, Niema Davis, and Reannan Konopka.

Congratulations, senior ladies!

Below is the October schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

  • October 16: Football @ Wickliffe
  • October 23: Football vs. Independence

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

Which Price Am I Paying?

 By: Camille Samilton

 October 14, 2026

“Do you want the coat or not?” the cashier says impatiently. “It doesn’t matter what the price says there; here’s what I’m saying it costs,” disregarding the sign at the entrance that reads: Coats on sale for $10.

“Whatever,” says the customer, who walks out paying more than what was owed. 

Kroger, one of the largest grocery chains, has faced scrutiny for advertising discounts that don’t match the prices charged at checkout. 

According to Consumer Reports, shoppers have been unintentionally paying more for grocery items such as juice, rice, vegetables, and meat despite the advertised discount.

Consumer Reports and The Guardian began an investigation that had people shop at 26 Kroger stores and other stores owned by the company such as Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, and Ralphs. These people found that incorrect sale labels caused the shoppers to be overcharged on more than 150 grocery items. The average overcharge was roughly $1.50 per item (18.54 percent higher). 

Once these results were exposed to the public, there was immediate uproar, causing these shoppers to file lawsuits. According to The Guardian, stores such as Walmart were accused of incorrect pricing and settled $45 million in a class-action lawsuit. Albertsons was accused of similar practices, resulting in a $4 million civil penalty. However, both companies denied the targeted offense.

“I have been overcharged too many times to count to the point where I just accept it,” anonymous shopper (Supermarket News).

“I want Kroger to stop screwing people over, especially when they are the only store in town,” Allison Hadfield (The Guardian).

“If the sticker is hanging below that item, that’s what the price is; it’s their fault for not taking that sticker off,” Michelle Tomashot (The Guardian).

However, NBC reported that some Kroger locations have over 15,000 discount tags, making it nearly impossible for a small workforce to switch out expired coupons. PR Newswire reports that investigators and government inspectors also found that the digital coupon doesn’t apply to the designated item properly at checkout.

If a price tag cannot tell you what you’re paying, what is it there for?

Featured

Settling In

By: BHS News Staff

October 13, 2026

As the air gets colder and the trees continue to change colors, we move closer and closer to the end of the first quarter. Please, get those assignments in fast!

Now, onto this week’s news.

As previously-mentioned, the first quarter is coming to a hasty end, but the hype doesn’t stop here. Down in the lower school, the annual book fair has come and gone with hundreds of books, diaries, and black-light pens making their way out of the library and into the sticky hands of our youngsters. It was a great annual event, so a big shout-out to those who made it happen.

Construction in the high school is still going strong. The men in orange are working hard on the science wing, music wing, and the new elevator. Maybe one day the persistent banging, drilling, and knocking will be considered a symphony of change instead of the racket we have to listen to while trying to find “x”.

The Class of 2027 has many things coming up this October, starting with our girls volleyball Senior Night taking place this Thursday. Each of our lovely ladies will be competing against Trinity High School and will be honored with their families to talk about their future plans prior to the match. Good luck, girls! You have earned this evening.

This year, BHS will not be a polling station for Brooklyn residents. Instead, voters will vote at the Brooklyn Senior Community Center. Speaking of the Senior Center, there will be an opportunity for community service hours coming up. A selection of students will be able to go to the Senior Center between 12:00-1:00 or 2:00-3:00 to spend time with the lovely residents. There will also be a selection of Brooklyn High School’s own artwork to be displayed for all to see. 

Shifting gears, the underclassmen will be taking the PSAT on October 27. The seniors will be off on this day to explore college visitations.

Finally and sadly, after many years, Dr. Caleris has decided to pursue another professional opportunity in the North Olmsted City School District, effective January 1, 2027. Our school board is currently working to fill his role as superintendent. A big shout-out to Dr. Caleris for being a supportive, innovative, and passionate superintendent for six incredible years. Dr. C, you will be missed!

Here is the calendar for October:

  • October 15: Volleyball Senior Night 
  • October 21: Instant Replay Concert
  • October 22: End of the First Quarter
  • October 23: Football Senior Night
  • October 27: PSAT (No School for Seniors)
  • October 27: Picture Retake Day
  • October 28: Playhouse Square Field Trip 
  • October 29: Europe Meeting
  • October 31: Halloween 👻

Have a cozy Autumn week, Brooklyn.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Selena Gomez

By: Reymon Carrasquillo

October 12, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Selena Gomez. Selena describes herself as funny, kind, and creative. She has been at Brooklyn High School all four years and works weekends at her dad’s restaurant in Akron, Latino Bar & Grill. In her free time, she enjoys rewatching her favorite TV shows and movies while working on different crafts. She is involved in several activities including Student Council, Stage Crew, National Art Honor Society, and Hurricettes. After graduation, Selena plans to attend college and major in Biomedical Science.

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to the underclassmen?
A: “That life is going to hurt you eventually, whether that is friendships, relationships, sports, etc. Time is the key thing that guides you along, no matter what has happened.”

Q: What is something you’re proud of for overcoming?
A: “All the hardships and challenges that I faced in high school. After every one, I picked myself back up and brought myself to where I am now.”

Q: If you could have any teacher teach a completely different subject, who would it be and what would she teach?
A: “Mrs. Sullivan and she would teach History. I think her personality needs a history class.”

Q: What class did you enjoy more than you expected?
A: “I think the class that I enjoyed the most was Algebra II with Mr. Hanlon because it is where I had the funniest memories with my friends, laughing the whole time and hardly getting our work done.”

Q: What is a random fact about yourself that most people don’t know?
A: “That I actually like to dance, whether that is on the field with my teammates or at parties.”

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would you?
A: “Italy because I love the scenery there. It’s all so beautiful and peaceful, and I would just love it if I could live there.”

Q: What is one moment from high school that you know you’ll never forget?
A: “Knowing everything that has happened in high school, I gained so many incredible memories with people I cherish so deeply.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?
A: “Mr. Kaspar because he has truly been by my side throughout high school whenever anything happened to me and comforted me when I needed it. He is someone to talk to and give me advice. I consider him my Ms. Honey from Matilda. Besides that, he is an awesome artist, and his work is amazing. Each time I do an art piece, I look at him for advice and inspiration for it.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Selena. Good luck with college, pursuing a major in Biomedical Science, and all the exciting opportunities that await you after graduation.

Featured

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Lavinder

*BCSD Nurse*

By: Grace Paul

October 9, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Lavinder, first-year nurse in the Brooklyn City School District. Previously, Mrs. Lavinder was the school nurse at Cloverleaf Schools, located in Seville. An interesting fact about her is that she has been a school nurse for 13 total years.

Q. What makes Brooklyn different from other districts?

A. “The diversity that the families and students bring to Brooklyn make it very special. Not only are there so many different cultures to learn from, but there are many students with varying abilities, talents, and visions about how they want to be seen.”

Q. What is your favorite part about your job? What’s the most challenging?

A. “Easily, the best part of my job is helping any student become independent with their health care needs. It can be something as simple as helping a first grade student learn to wash out their own playground wounds with soap and water before they apply the bandaid. Or, it can be as complex as helping a student work through the steps of their diabetes care. Independence is so important! At this moment, the most challenging part of the job is not being as familiar with the students and staff as I wish. However, I know that will get better with time. For now, I rely on the clinic aides Miss Erin and Mrs. Cutright to help me figure out who is who and where things are. I would be lost without them!” 

Q. What is one thing you wish all students knew about your job in the school clinic?

A. “One, I wish students didn’t try to use the clinic as a free pass to go home. We are here to help them stay in school. That is the goal. Two, I’ve been a nurse for too many years and a school nurse for 13 years. I’ve seen a lot. Not much shocks me anymore. If you’ve made a bad decision that has affected your health, just be honest. I can help you much faster. Three, there’s no such thing as using too much soap.”

Q. What is your favorite part of working with kids and teenagers every day?

A. “There are some kids I get to see every day to help them meet their health needs. I enjoy those everyday relationships. I like getting to know the students beyond what they come into the clinic for. I enjoy learning from them and the good conversations.”

Q. What is your favorite activity to do outside of school?

A. “I love to go places I’ve never been before! I enjoy hiking, and any day at the beach is a great day.”

Q. What is your go-to meal?

A. “Full disclosure, I am not a good cook. However, I am getting pretty good at a shrimp, broccoli, and pasta dish with lots of butter, garlic, and lemon juice. When I cook, it’s never the same thing twice because I usually make it up as I go.”

Q. What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you?

A. “First things first, I think it’s easy to get caught up in the big goal and that can be overwhelming. If I set lots of smaller goals and accomplish them step-by-step, I get to celebrate the little things more often.”

Q. Do you enjoy working with your husband everyday?

A. “I enjoy that he drives me to-and-from work every day! I don’t really see him much during the day.” 

Q. What kind of books do you turn to when you want to relax?

A. “I love to read. I’m currently on book #26 for the year. The best book I’ve read recently is My Friends by Fredrik Backman. My favorite all-time classic is To Kill A Mockingbird.”

Thank you for your responses, Mrs. Lavinder. I wish you all the best in your first full year as a nurse here in the Brooklyn City School District.

Featured

Final Whistle 

By: BHS Sports Staff

October 8, 2026

Surrounded by cheering fans and family, the boys soccer team kicked off an unforgettable night dedicated to 11 incredible seniors.

John Nguyen, Julian Quintana, Jayden Torres, Gibran Boukzam, Sajon Johnson, Kyle Morgan, Ryan Howard, Danny Young, Ben Denovchek, Jack Schultz, and Aiden Villani were all honored for their many years of representing Hurricanes soccer.

For their game against the visiting Brookside Cardinals, the senior Hurricanes logged the majority of the playing time, stepping off the field only when a quick breather was essential. Both teams battled for the first 40 minutes; however, a scoreless first half kept the match deadlocked at 0–0 at the break.

Drama unfolded in the second half when a handball in the penalty box led to a red card for Denovchek, forcing the Hurricanes to only play with 10. Brookside took advantage of this and scored their first goal. The Cardinals managed two more goals midway through the second half, padding their lead. The lone offensive bright spot for the Hurricanes was a goal from Boukzam near the end of regulation. Though the match ultimately ended in a 3–1 loss, the team’s passion was evident until the final whistle.

More than the final score, this Senior Night was a celebration of family, brotherhood, and gratitude for 11 athletes who gave their all for the program. It was an unforgettable evening of soccer and emotional celebrations. As the final whistle blew, tears and smiles occurred as the players embraced one another, their coaches, and their families. Each senior was presented with framed keepsakes and flowers, highlighting years of practices, victories, and unwavering commitment.

Great job, senior boys!

The spotlight then turned to the girls team, which honored an impressive group of seniors as well: Yarimell Dechamps, Gianna Torres, Samira Laboo, and Maddie Barrow. Surrounded by cheering classmates, families, and dedicated fans packing the stands, the team channeled that crowd energy straight into their own contest with the Brookside Lady Cardinals.

From the opening whistle to the final whistle, the Hurricanes worked relentlessly to move the ball up-and-down the field to create scoring opportunities. Driven by the desire to send Yari, Gianna, Samira, and Maddie off with a win, every player worked tirelessly off the ball, battling for loose possessions.

The offense generated several close chances but unfortunately could not convert. Even when shots were turned away or plays fell short, the team’s communication and collective hustle never faltered.

While the final score in favor of Brookside (7-0) didn’t deliver the victory they fought so hard for, the performance showcased everything that defined this group’s season: Resilience, heart, and complete support for one another. 

Congratulations, senior ladies!

Two defeats could not lessen the energy and emotions of this evening. We congratulate all of the senior soccer players.

Below is the October schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics. 

  • October 8: Boys Soccer vs. Independence
  • October 8: Volleyball vs. Fairview
  • October 10: Football @ Trinity 
  • October 12: Girls Soccer @ Barberton
  • October 13: Boys Soccer @ Berkshire
  • October 13: Volleyball @ Cuyahoga Heights
  • October 15: Volleyball vs. Trinity (Senior Night)
  • October 16: Football @ Wickliffe
  • October 23: Football vs. Independence

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

You Were Supposed To Make Something Ugly

By: Camille Samilton

October 7, 2026

You are told to create, to be something. So, you craft and you find something you can do. You spend years practicing, learning, and immersing yourself, driving yourself to conceive that ideal image. When you share your work, you turn to the machine standing beside you, which is scanning your work, and it is mastered within seconds.

You stare at your sullied hands and ask yourself: Do I need to create?

“A lot of the ideas that are produced by large language models or other forms of AI, particularly general AI, are very similar and grouped around similar concepts. Human beings are much better at creating ideas that are very different.” – Saeema Ahmed-Kristensen

When people look at the research into the cognitive effects of AI-assisted creativity, it shows an elaborate sequence of what exactly AI does and can do. 

With the complexity and modernization of Artificial Intelligence, the result is this review of 25 students regarding AI-assisted writing and creativity. ScienceDirect argues that AI can boost that ‘creativity trigger’ if used in appropriate doses, but excessive reliance on AI can prevent students from developing original ideas devoid of it.

AI does not inherently make a person less creative, in certain instances, as some may think. 

Researchers have published in ScienceAdvances that AI assistance can make these individual stories by authors more creative, while also reporting that readers can find the content within those stories more enjoyable. 

Conversely, both ScienceAdvances and ARXIV came to similar conclusions on how, over time, this can decrease the number of diverse ideas as a collection within the overall writing, tropes, and overall plot within books. It is similar to how multiple book covers in the same genre can look very aesthetically comparable in a bookstore.

If this machine can give us the idea, develop it, visualize it, and produce it, then what exactly are humans learning how to create if AI can cause us to become the creator?

Featured

October Reigns

By: BHS News Staff

October 6, 2026

With October now in full swing, the season of festivals, pumpkin picking, bonfires, and trick-or-treating is guaranteed to bring about fun, exciting memories.

Speaking of exciting, let’s get to this week’s news.

As the first quarter dwindles down to 12 more school days, make sure all assignments are turned in on time and good study habits take shape. First quarter progress typically sets the tone for the entire school year, so finish this first grading period successfully. Equally important, Parent/Teacher Conferences will occur this Thursday with appointments beginning at 3:30. Please sign-up on ParentSquare.

Next, this past Saturday, the Brooklyn Hurricanes Marching Band traveled down to Columbus and performed at Ohio State University. It was a great experience for the entire ensemble; however, it was a long day for the band with members reporting at 6:00 a.m. and arriving back to Brooklyn at 12:40 a.m. the next morning. Regardless, it was a great experience. 

Moving along, Key Club has a new advisor, Ms. Burke. This occurred following the DEVASTATING departure of our very own Miss Cramer, who left BHS for another job opportunity. Miss Cramer, we miss you already! However, we wish Ms. Burke all the best in her new role as Key Club Advisor.

Speaking of Key Club, the first meeting is next Thursday, October 15. All members are encouraged to attend, and anyone wanting to join is also welcomed. Dues for Key Club are $15 and must be paid by the end of November. There are big plans on the horizon, so please join in.

Safety anyone? Just a friendly reminder that e-vehicles (excluding cars) have laws that we, as residents of Brooklyn, must follow for the safety of ourselves and others. Below is a graphic made for e-bike safety. Some highlights include the three classes for e-bikes, all operators of the vehicle must be 16 or older, and all people riding on any vehicle must wear a helmet.

These rules are not new to our students, considering it is one of the first things our new principal Mr. Capacetti explained at orientation before the school year began.

E-bikes are to be used for transportation responsibly, they are not to be driven on sidewalks or in the building at all, and they must be locked up at the bike racks located directly outside of the main school entrance. The school cannot and will not be held responsible for loss, theft, or damage, but they will do what they can to investigate such incidents.

We advise students to be extra careful when commuting to-and-from school as this Autumn weather rolls in. Not only are e-bikes and other non-electric modes of transport more likely to hydroplane, lose grip on the ground, skid on wet, icy, or leaf-covered surfaces, but cars, buses, and plenty of other vehicles are also facing the same dangers.

Also, please keep in mind that in the early morning hours, vehicles may not be able to see pedestrians, e-bikes, etc. All modes of transport must have a white front light, a rear red reflector, and a working brake. Keep yourself and others safe!

Finally, here is the calendar for October:

  • October 8: Parent/Teacher Conferences 
  • October 9: NEOEA Day (No School)
  • October 15: Volleyball Senior Night 
  • October 22: End of the First Quarter
  • October 23: Football Senior Night
  • October 27: PSAT
  • October 27: Picture Retake Day
  • October 28: Playhouse Square Field Trip 
  • October 29: Europe Meeting
  • October 31: Halloween 👻

Have a great, four-day week, Brooklyn.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Gibran Boukzam

By: Reymon Carrasquillo

October 5, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Gibran Boukzam. Gibran is adventurous, full of excitement, and warm-hearted. He has been in Brooklyn all of his life and stays busy with soccer, hockey, indoor soccer, and indoor track. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, watching movies, driving, and doing the things he loves. Gibran currently works at TJ Maxx but is looking for a Business Internship. After graduation, he plans to attend a four-year college with an undecided major as of now.

Q: What is your biggest accomplishment during high school?

A: “The growth I’ve made. I wouldn’t say there’s one thing that defines anyone, but I’m proud to say you wouldn’t recognize me if you looked at a picture of me freshman year.”

Q: What is something you wish you had taken more seriously in high school?

A: “Grades my junior year. Freshman and sophomore years were so easy for me, so I didn’t feel the need to take junior year as seriously.”

Q: What are you looking forward to most after graduation?

A: “Finding myself and who and where I want to be.”

Q: If you could instantly become an expert at anything, what would you choose?

A: “Knowing when to say something. I’d say my biggest mistakes aren’t what I do but how I handle them. If I went back, I would watch my actions more and the effect they have.”

Q: If you could relive one day of high school, which day would you choose?

A: “I wouldn’t. I’m happy with how everything went and where I’ve come. Honestly, I’m scared of time travel and its fictional effects.”

Q: What is something you learned in high school that wasn’t taught in a classroom?

A: “Everything takes time. Don’t rush anything or push for the next thing right away. You’ll miss out on enjoying things that were right in front of your face.”

Q: What is one thing you could talk about for hours?

A: “The environmental and political state of our world right now. But really, it’s mostly the decisions. I enjoy talking about what would have or could have happened with the people involved. I always learn more from an argument than an agreement.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?

A: “Mr. Urig. He isn’t my favorite, but from being someone I made fun of as a child to someone I now respect and the lessons he taught me outside of the book will go on to last forever.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Gibran. Good luck with college, your future career, and everything that comes next!

Featured

Staff Spotlight: Ms. Schwendeman

*Brooklyn High School English Teacher*

By: Grace Paul

October 2, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Ms. Schwendeman, a first-year English Teacher at Brooklyn High School. Ms. Schwendeman previously taught at Northwood Middle School in Elyria as a seventh grade teacher. An interesting fact about her is that she likes to go for hikes.

Q. What made you want to become a teacher?

A. “I became a teacher because I love reading and want to help my students discover the same joy in it. I also love working with kids and watching them learn, grow, and experience those exciting ‘Aha!’ moments. Being able to help students build confidence and develop a love for learning is what makes teaching so rewarding to me.”

Q. What is your favorite part about your job? What’s the most challenging?

A. “My favorite part of my job is reading stories with my students and watching their reactions to how those stories end. I especially enjoy doing novel studies and watching my students fall in love with books they would have never picked up off the shelf. The most challenging part is definitely making sure that I am meeting the needs of all my students and finding the right way to teach them.”

Q. What do you hope your students remember most about being in your classroom after they graduate?

A. “I hope my students remember my classroom as a place where they felt cared for, supported, and confident in who they are. I want them to remember how they grew as readers and learners, the confidence they built, and the fun we had through our novel studies. Most of all, I hope they remember that they were valued and believed in.”

Q. What is your morning routine before the first bell rings?

A. “Before the first bell, I enjoy starting my morning with a cup of coffee, checking my emails, and listening to my audiobook. It’s my little bit of quiet time before the day gets busy.”

Q. What is your favorite activity to do outside of school?

A. “My favorite activities outside of school are spending time with my daughter, binge watching my comfort shows, reading, and hiking.”

Q. What current student trend/slang completely confuses you?

A. “The current student trend/slang that confuses me is when the kids tell each other to ‘touch grass.’ I just don’t get it, haha.”

Q. What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you?

 A. “The best piece of advice that anyone ever gave me is to not take life too seriously; it’s all about balance. Work hard, take those moments to relax, and live in the moment. Don’t stay stuck in the past or worrying about what’s happening in the future; be present.”

Q. What’s your favorite animal?

A. “My favorite animal has always been a tiger; they’re just so enamoring and graceful.”

Thank you for your responses, Ms. Schwendeman. I wish you all the best in your first full year in the ELA department here at Brooklyn High School.

Featured

Heartbreak and Tension

By: BHS Sports Staff

October 1, 2026

Beyond the final score, the Homecoming football game captured the ultimate high school experience with school spirit, proud traditions, a rowdy crowd, and a memorable evening.

From the opening kickoff, the energy under the Friday night lights was electric. Fans packed the stands in blue and gold, eager to celebrate Homecoming weekend with another decisive division win. However, what was supposed to be a picture-perfect Homecoming Friday night turned into an emotionally-charged showdown as the Brooklyn Hurricanes fell short against the Beachwood Bison in a dramatic 14-12 loss.

Brooklyn came into the game with a record of 1-4, while Beachwood stood at 2-3.

The first quarter was a defensive battle as both teams could not sustain any offensive rhythm. After one, neither team put up any points on the scoreboard.

However in the second quarter, the Hurricanes came out aggressively, driving down the field behind a solid rushing effort and an Alejandro Perez touchdown run to take an early lead. Even with a failed two-point conversion attempt, the Hurricanes continued to dominate defensively and headed into the locker with a six-point lead with 24 minutes left to play.

In the third quarter, the Bison answered back quickly, taking a one-point lead and setting off a back-and-forth battle that kept the student section on their feet throughout. Both defenses delivered crucial stops in the quarter, forcing fumbles and shutting down each other’s passing game. After three, the Bison had a one-point lead, 7-6.

In the fourth, the Hurricanes regained the lead at 12-7 on a Mason Vega quarterback sneak. Unfortunately, the Bison responded with a touchdown of their own, taking the lead back, 14-12. With under two minutes left on the clock and trailing by two, the Hurricanes mounted a final, desperate comeback. They did indeed push into Beachwood territory, setting up a dramatic fourth-down attempt with seconds remaining. However, a stand by the Bison defense broke up the final pass, sealing the game for the visitors as time expired.

The intense rivalry and narrow margin of victory caused emotions to boil over immediately following the final whistle. Words were exchanged between players during the handshakes, leading to a brief scuffle on the field. Coaches, referees, and field staff acted quickly to separate the players and to restore order before the teams headed to their respective locker rooms.

Despite the tough finish and the post-game tension, the Hurricanes demonstrated physical play and resilience throughout the high-stakes game. 

The Hurricanes will look to channel that intensity productively as they regroup ahead of their next matchup as they host the Chagrin Falls Tigers tomorrow evening.

Below is the October schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

  • October 1: Girls Soccer vs. Shaw
  • October 1: Boys Soccer vs. Shaw
  • October 1: Volleyball vs. Fairport
  • October 2: Football vs. Chagrin Falls
  • October 5: Girls Soccer vs. Brookside (Senior Night)
  • October 5: Boys Soccer vs. Brookside (Senior Night)
  • October 6: Volleyball @ Richmond Heights
  • October 8: Boys Soccer vs. Independence
  • October 8: Volleyball vs. Fairview
  • October 10: Football @ Trinity 
  • October 12: Girls Soccer @ Barberton
  • October 13: Boys Soccer @ Berkshire
  • October 13: Volleyball @ Cuyahoga Heights
  • October 15: Volleyball vs. Trinity (Senior Night)
  • October 16: Football @ Wickliffe
  • October 23: Football vs. Independence

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

Someone—or Something—Recognizes You

By: Camille Samilton

September 30, 2026

Dear Camera, don’t you recognize me? Don’t you scan my face everywhere I walk?

You walk into a store, a camera blinks (almost absent-mindedly) at you, but you look away and think nothing of it. Still, that circle keeps zooming in on me.

Facial recognition (FRT) scans your face, analyzing your features in a similar way police might take your fingerprints. But unlike fingerprints, the process can happen without you realizing it to be unnoticeable.

This technology is commonly used to unlock phones, to check passports, and to track people when they enter a place, which is especially common in retail stores.

According to Auror, retail stores scan faces based on a pre-made (biometric) template of a criminal’s face and compare it to the one that walks through the store. The scan is passive, immediately deleting non-match data after confirmation.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has led to significant advances in facial recognition technology. WGU tells us that when AI scans someone’s face, they measure the 3D face vectors and skin texture analysis, along with a newer addition: Thermal cameras, which record the size and shape of the head, ignoring accessories such as earrings and glasses.

The AI used determines a confidence score. If it’s high enough, that’s when a human steps into the scene. Because of this technology, Auror says it has stopped 42 percent of repeat offenders. 

As technology advances, those same cameras zoom in on faces, but pieces of data can turn into bias.

According to the MIT Media Lab, a study of commercial AI facial-analysis systems found error rates as high as 34.7 percent for darker-skinned women compared with a maximum of 0.8 percent for lighter-skinned men when classifying gender.

The consequences can stretch beyond being misidentified by the pattern recognizer. Research and documented cases have raised flags of concern about Black people being incorrectly identified, entered into databases, or subjected to increased targeted, police monitoring.

Auror extends this with continuous research that cites Black people starting to be arrested for minor crimes, planting their faces in databases, along with an abundance of these facial recognition cameras in Black and Brown neighborhoods. 

In addition to this, the Innocence Project has reported that Robert Williams was the first documented case of a wrongful arrest in 2020 due to facial-recognition technology. He was charged with stealing Shinola watches worth thousands of dollars. 

The ACLU argues that certain uses of facial recognition raise Fourth Amendment concerns (protects against unreasonable searches) because of the risk of innocent victims being searched. The ACLU has also argued that facial recognition technology is starting to cause people not to exercise their First Amendment rights. Some people have been scared to protest, afraid they will be documented by this technology if they do so.

The camera continues to blink at you—your figure reflecting on the screen—and your mind twists, wondering what exactly it sees.

Featured

Homecoming Huzzah

By: BHS News Staff

September 29, 2026

Welcome back from our free-trial of Fall weather. It was a treat, but it seems we will be heating up over the week (Thursday in particular). Oh well, what do we expect in Northeast Ohio?

Brooklyn had a jam-packed weekend, starting with the senior luncheon and pep rally last Friday, followed by the Homecoming dance this past Saturday.

First off, the senior luncheon was eventful as always with thousands of calories consumed and a well put-together photo wall. Along with this, the brunch menu items were a big hit with minimal leftovers when all was said and done. A big thanks to all of the parents who brought in food and served the Class of 2027.

Only just a few hours before the revealing of the 2026 Homecoming King and Queen, all of the candidates competed in the annual Homecoming pep rally. Before this, however, the band, Hurricettes, and cheer team all graced the student body with pre-game performances.

The first game of the pep rally was Tippy Cup, where each contestant tried to knock their opponents’ cups off the top of their pool noodle without dropping theirs or stepping outside of the circle. Benjamin Denovchek was the victor at the end of this contest; he would not be denied!

The second competition was tough, called “Finish That Lyric”. The queen candidates won without a doubt. The King candidates, renamed to sore losers, demanded a rematch which these lovely ladies won as well.

The third and final game, arguably the funniest of them all, was a game of pairs. The kings covered their heads in shaving cream, and the queens did their best to throw and land as many cheese balls as they could into their partner’s shaving cream. While an entertaining competition, it was such a waste of delicious cheeseballs.

Later, the Homecoming football game against Beachwood on Friday was…eventful, to say the least. The main event was not the postgame “fireworks” but instead the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. The race for the crown was a close one; however, Blake Ullrich and Gianna Kos won in the end.

Congratulations, Blake and Gianna!

Now onto the Homecoming dance, which started at 7:00 sharp, with over 180 students in attendance, this was a spectacular time. Along with the dance floor in the cafeteria, there was a booming photo booth in the hallway as well as a snowcone machine, which were both a hit. Simply, Rio at Sunset was a night to remember. 

Unfortunately, this year’s Homecoming festivities are officially in the books. A big thanks to everyone involved for making last week a special week.

Here is the calendar for September into October:

  • September 29: Hockey Interest Meeting
  • September 30: Parent Internet Safety Information Night
  • October 3: SAT Retakes
  • October 8: Parent/Teacher Conferences 
  • October 9: NEOEA (No School)
  • October 22: End of the First Quarter
  • October 27: Picture Retake Day

Have an amazing, toasty week, fellow Hurricanes.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Grace Paul

By: Reymon Carrasquillo

September 28, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Grace Paul. Grace is optimistic, empathetic, and driven. She has been a student in Brooklyn since seventh grade and stays busy with competitive dance, Hurricettes, and musical theatre. She is also involved in Drama Club, Key Club, and First Ring Leadership. Over the Summer, Grace worked at the high school through the technology internship. After graduation, she plans to attend a four-year university to major in Exercise Science in hopes of becoming a Physical Therapist. A fun fact about Grace is that she has performed as both Wednesday Addams and Glinda in two school musicals.

Q: What is one moment from high school that you know you’ll never forget?

A: “Definitely performing on stage in the school musicals as Wednesday Addams my junior year and Glinda my sophomore year. It is such an unreal feeling performing in front of an audience with all my friends.”

Q: What is your favorite Hurricettes memory?

A: “My favorite Hurricette memory is either performing at Disney World or our trip to New York City. Along with that, it would just be meeting some of my best friends.”

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to your freshman-year self?

A: “Stop being so nervous and embarrassed about the little things and take all the opportunities given to you. The four years go by so unbelievably fast, so you really have to soak up your time in high school and make the best of it!”

Q: What are you looking forward to most after graduation?

A: “Starting college to pursue my passion for a medical career.”

Q: What is something on your bucket list?

A: “Definitely traveling the world and the second would be meeting a seal in person; they are my favorite animal!”

Q: Would you rather have unlimited money or unlimited free time?

A: “Probably unlimited money; if I had a lot of money, that would probably end up giving me a lot of free time.”

Q: What is something you learned in high school that wasn’t taught in a classroom?

A: “I learned that not everyone is going to be kind to you, but your attitude and kindness towards others really go a long way.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?

A: “I have two, Miss Cramer and Mr. Roeigers. They are both so supportive and have helped me throughout high school tremendously, even if I did not always have their class. But someone who I can always count on and go to no matter what would definitely be Mr. Black. Even though he’s not a teacher, he has always been there for me and supported me since seventh grade, especially during Hurricettes, the musicals, and work over the Summer.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Grace. Good luck with college, Exercise Science, and pursuing your goal of becoming a Physical Therapist.

Featured

Staff Spotlight: Ms. Burke

*Brooklyn High School Math Teacher*

By: Grace Paul

September 25, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Ms. Burke, a first-year Math Teacher at Brooklyn High School. Ms. Burke earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Utica University. An interesting fact about her is that she has one pulmonary artery.

Q. What made you want to become a teacher?

A. “I always enjoyed working with people, and math came naturally to me throughout high school. So I thought, why not combine those two! Teaching allows me to work with people while sharing a subject that I’ve always enjoyed.”

Q. What makes Brooklyn different from other school districts?

A. “The administrators are extremely supportive and caring. I appreciate that Dr. Caleris and Mrs. Deliz host the Hurricane New Educator Series, walk the hallways, and check in on me to ensure that I am adjusting well. I’ve had such a positive experience in my new journey so far, thanks to everyone in the district.”

Q. What is your favorite part of your job? What’s the most challenging?

A. “My favorite part of my job is getting to know my students, watching them grow, and teaching them skills that they will (hopefully) use later in life. For a while, the most challenging part of my job was learning everything I needed to know about working in a new school and a new state. There were so many websites to bookmark, procedures to learn, and policies to remember. I think I have things mostly figured out now.”

Q. What do you believe makes a teacher truly successful?

A. “I believe a successful teacher is someone who can teach the content in a way that students can understand. Many people are good at math, but not everyone can effectively teach it to others. A successful teacher is flexible and can adjust a lesson on the fly to meet the needs of students.” 

Q. What is your favorite activity to do outside of school?

A. “I have two: Reading and going for walks with my dog. Every year, I set a goal to read 100 books, and I’m currently on book 70.” 

Q. When you were young, what did you want to grow up to be?

A. “It was always between being a teacher and an architect. I initially explored the idea of going into architecture and took every technology course my high school offered. I loved learning how to use 3D design software and enjoyed the thought of creating and designing homes. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience in the architecture program at the college I originally attended. That’s when I decided I was meant to be a teacher and switched my major.” 

Q. What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you?

A. “I’ve received a lot of great advice in my lifetime, but the best advice was probably to just keep going and remember who I am and my why. This is particularly important on hard days. It reminds me to never give up, finish my day as strong as I can, wake up the next day with a clean slate, and continue to be a great role model for my students.” 

Q. What is your favorite food and favorite color?

A. “Remember a few years ago when the baked feta with tomatoes and pasta recipe went viral on the Internet? It’s still one of my favorite dishes, but I love adding jalapeños to the dish. And, my favorite color is definitely green.”

Thank you for your responses, Ms. Burke. I wish you all the best in your first full year as a math teacher here at Brooklyn High School.

Featured

Saddle Up for Victory

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 24, 2026

Finally, the taste of victory!

The football team earned a long-awaited victory last Thursday against the Fairport Harbor Harding Skippers, 20-16. Rallying behind a strong second-half performance, the team secured a hard-fought victory, driven by relentless defense and timely offensive adjustments.

So, how did the game unfold?

It was a slow first quarter on the gridiron as both teams punted twice. However, the Hurricanes were finally able to connect for their first touchdown of the game with a pass by junior Mason Vega to fellow junior Bentley Cox, giving the Canes a 6-0 lead. The two-point attempt failed.

The second quarter was a defensive battle, but the Skippers were able to get on the scoreboard and convert their two point conversion. Heading into halftime, the visitors led the Hurricanes by a score of 8-6.

Heading into the third quarter, the Hurricanes offense sparked a turnaround with a quick touchdown coming out of the break, another strike from Vega to Cox (two-point attempt failed again). The defense, meanwhile, continued to maintain constant pressure, sending aggressive five and six-man blitzes that ultimately forced a desperate throw by the Harding quarterback, which was intercepted by junior Matt Kenderes. After three, the Hurricanes had a slim 12-8 lead.

It’s never easy, is it? 

Even with an Enrique Perez touchdown run, a successful two-point conversion, and a 20-8 lead, the fourth quarter tested the resolve of the Hurricanes with a fumbled snap in the endzone, which the Skippers recovered for an easy touchdown (followed by another successful two-point conversion). The visitors then set up to recover an onside kick, but the ball was recovered by Cox. After the Skippers later got the ball back with three minutes remaining in the contest, Kenderes intercepted his second pass of the evening, securing the win for the Blue and Gold by a final score of 20-16.

This victory sets the tone for tomorrow evening when the Hurricanes host the Beachwood Bison for the Homecoming football game, looking for two straight in the win column. Securing their first win passes a major hurdle and builds confidence with a tough remaining schedule.

Congratulations, football team!

Below is the remaining September schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics. 

  • September 25: Football vs. Beachwood
  • September 28: Girls Soccer vs. Ellet
  • September 28: Volleyball @ Parma Valley Forge
  • September 29: Volleyball @ Beachwood 
  • September 29: Boys Soccer vs. Horizon Science Academy
  • September 29: Boys Soccer @ Ellet  

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

Appetite for Atrocity

By: Camille Samilton

 September 23, 2026

Actors dance, positioning themselves as murderers or victims, to entertain the people staring at the glass screen.

Today, true crime is at its peak form of entertainment with 84 percent of the U.S. population consuming True Crime media.  This genre accounts for about 14 percent of podcast revenue and is expected to grow in 2026 as its popularity increases worldwide. 

For example, My Favorite Murder earned $15 million in one year. More specifically, Netflix is the top platform for consuming true crime with a 65 percent engagement rate.  

According to SSRS, people who consume true crime prioritize their safety, invest in home security, feel more fearful of their surroundings, feel more anxious, and take self-defense classes. Others are just interested in the intricate minds and thoughts of killers. One-in-three people who have been unfortunate victims of a crime have reported that watching true crime has better prepared them for the incident that fell upon them.

While seen as entertainment, the true crime industry has a legal loophole many people don’t know about. In the U.S., companies do not have to ask permission from the victims to profit from the trauma that they have experienced.

For example, when Netflix released Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, The Hollywood Reporter interviewed Rita Isbel, receiving her perspective on the situation. 

“I feel like Netflix should’ve asked if we mind or how we felt about making it. They didn’t ask me anything. They just did it,” Isbel stated.

Sadly, she had to watch the actors play out how her brother was brutally murdered, bringing up all of the emotions from that unfortunate day decades ago. 

While millions of people have the appetite to go on their streaming platform to consume true crime media, the real-world victims choke.

Featured

Homecoming Prelude

By: BHS News Staff

September 22, 2026

Brooklyn, welcome back to a cool-temperatured week, commemorating the first day of Autumn. 

Today, we have some additional information pertaining to Homecoming; however, we’d like to first call attention to the boys basketball program.

On the 25th anniversary of September 11, Brooklyn High School’s very own boys basketball program took the time out of their day to go to Edgewater Park and place flags and medallions as a patriotic remembrance to those who had fallen during the terrorist attacks. The boys also took part in learning about a variety of careers, including the FBI, firefighting, and the police force. Two former FBI agents who actually experienced 9/11 spoke on their own stories from that horrific day.

May we never forget the historical terrorism that plagued our nation on that day, and may we never forget the heroes who sacrificed their own lives to save and protect others.

Now, back to Homecoming.

The Meeting-of-the-Court assembly occurred last Friday, and the entire high school had the pleasure of seeing each court member and hearing their bios. Senior emcees Jayden Drummond and Caleb Hinkle did a wonderful job introducing all 10 candidates. 

Reminder, voting will take place this week. Once the votes are tallied, the king and queen will be announced before this Friday’s football game against Beachwood. Additionally, the theme for the student section is Brooklyn Pride, so please wear as much Brooklyn apparel as possible. Show up and show out this Friday!

Please be aware that tickets for Saturday’s dance will conclude being sold this Friday. Guest passes are also being sold this week. Please pay all of your fees, and fill out your final forms before purchasing a ticket.

Every annual Homecoming week includes Spirit Week. Mrs. Bader along with input from the student body have put together this year’s version of Spirit Week. Below is the flyer with each day’s theme. 

Finally, there will be a luncheon held from 10:30-12:00 in the high school gym this Friday for all seniors. Brunch is what’s on the menu, so come hungry. Senior Polaris students will leave later than normal to participate in the senior brunch and will also come back earlier to attend the afternoon pep rally.

This is going to be a fun and memorable week, so enjoy each day, show school spirit, and enjoy the festivities.

Here is the calendar for September:

  • September 21-25: Safety Week/Spirit Week
  • September 24: Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
  • September 25: Senior Luncheon
  • September 25: Homecoming Pep Rally
  • September 25: Homecoming Football Game vs. Beachwood
  • September 26: Homecoming Dance

Have an amazing Homecoming week, fellow Hurricanes.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Jack Schultz

By: Reymon Carrasquillo

September 21, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Jack Schultz. Jack describes himself as intelligent, adaptable, and outgoing. He has been a student in Brooklyn since fourth grade and currently works at Pet Supplies Plus. He is also involved in soccer and track. After graduation, Jack plans to attend college, most likely Ohio State, with an undecided major as of now.

Q: In what ways do you think you’ve changed since your freshman year?
A: “I’ve become more confident and social.”

Q: What is one thing you could not have made it through high school without?
A: “I couldn’t have made it through high school without sports.”

Q: If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: “I would choose to eat pizza because it is one of the most versatile foods and can be prepared in so many different ways.”

Q: What is your favorite school event or tradition?
A: “My favorite school tradition is soccer team dinners.”

Q: What is the most difficult class you have taken?
A: “The most difficult class I have taken was AP Biology during my junior year.”

Q: What’s your favorite soccer memory?
A: “My most fond memory from soccer is my junior year game versus Independence. I was playing right midfield, and I stopped nearly every throw-in they had.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?
A: “My biggest influence has been Mr. Grigson, my soccer coach. He has helped me grow, not just as a soccer player, but as a person, too. He taught me how to be more responsible, work through difficult situations, and carry myself more like a man.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Jack. Good luck with soccer, attending college, and all of the exciting opportunities that await you after graduation.

Featured

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Kronenberger

*Brooklyn High School Administrative Assistant*

By: Grace Paul

September 18, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mr. Jonathan Kronenberger, first-year Administrative Assistant at Brooklyn High School. Mr. Kronenberger graduated from Miami University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts and then Ohio University with his Master’s in Fine Arts. Something interesting about him is that he has a background in Theatrical Arts, directing many productions.

Q. What does a typical day as a school secretary look like?

A. “Hectic. As with most things now, you need to be able to multi-task while still maintaining focus on getting each of those things completed (or at least moving forward). There is also something new to learn every single day here, which can slow you down, but it is good to keep learning new things.”

Q. What do you enjoy most about your job?

A. “Honestly, the people. The staff, faculty, and students here are really great – very helpful, welcoming, and patient. Prior to this, I worked for a few years from home, which has some great perks, but you lose a lot of opportunities to socialize and interact, which takes its toll over time. It always helps to be where the people are.”

Q. What is the most challenging part of your job?

A. “Not knowing everything I need to know yet. This is my first start of the school year here, and there is always something new that someone needs that I have to ask for help on or figure out how to recreate.  However, Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Paul (from the Brooklyn School) have been especially helpful with teaching me and/or exploring together to find it. Mrs. Bir and Mr. Ross are fantastic sources of information and advice, too. That said, literally everyone has been wonderful as far as sharing what they know and helping with this transition from the skills I already have to getting the additional skills I need.”

Q. What is something people might not realize about your job?

A. “That it is more fun than you might think. We keep ourselves entertained.”

Q. What do you like to do outside of school?

A. “I should say something inspirational but mainly watch movies and television and play stupid games on my phone.”

Q. What is your favorite hobby?

A. “I have a background in theater, so I still direct shows at local theaters.”

Q. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

A. “Have more confidence in yourself and don’t be afraid to ask about what you don’t know.”

Q. What is your favorite color and food? 

A. “I am going to have to say purple for color and pepperoni pizza for food. I’m not fancy.”

Thank you for your responses, Mr. Kronenberger. I wish you all the best in your first full year as Administrative Assistant at Brooklyn High School.

Featured

One Off Soccer Showdown  

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 17, 2026

On Tuesday, the boys soccer team played a heated game against the Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves. Trying to notch their first victory of the year, the Hurricanes were poised and ready. 

The visiting Red Wolves came in with a record of 2-7 and the Hurricanes 0-10-1.

The game started off slow, but as it went on, the competitiveness from both squads was on full display.

From the opening whistle, both teams played aggressively as the defenses kept the other team from getting too comfortable with shots on goal. Senior goalkeeper Benjamin Denovchek made sure to keep the game 0-0. Unfortunately, the visiting goaltender did the exact same as the first half ended in a 0-0 tie.

The second half continued to be an intense battle as both teams fought to get the ball and score the potential winning goal. Sadly, the only goal of the game came late in the contest from the Red Wolves with not much time remaining. 

To say this game was a Defense Struggle would be a major understatement. Nonetheless, the Hurricanes fought until the final whistle but came up a little short in earning their first victory.

Spotlight players for the Hurricanes were Denovchek and sophomores Kit Vandine and Cristian Garcia.

Denovchek stood out on the field by working really hard to defend the goal until the final whistle. Not only because of his determination, his bright pink jersey made him impossible to miss, too.

Vandine showed great effort and continued to push forward despite the score. He stayed determined and focused from start-to-finish.

Garcia played very well on offense and defense, standing out by repeatedly using his head to make important plays and keep the ball moving.

Hang in there, boys. The victories are coming!

Here is the September schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics:

  • September 17: Football vs. Fairport
  • September 19: Volleyball vs. Medina Christian
  • September 22: Volleyball @ Trinity  
  • September 22: Boys Soccer @ Fairview
  • September 22: Girls Soccer @ Fairview
  • September 25: Football vs. Beachwood
  • September 28: Girls Soccer vs. Ellet
  • September 28: Volleyball @ Parma Valley Forge
  • September 29: Volleyball @ Beachwood 
  • September 29: Boys Soccer vs. Horizon Science Academy
  • September 29: Boys Soccer @ Ellet  

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

More Than Pawns When Cameras Stop 

By: Camille Samilton

September 16, 2026

Participating in a one-sided match requires more than just moving the same tired pawn. In chess, sometimes you need to reset the pieces by rearranging them across the board to find the strategy needed to win.

In last week’s article, I discussed four important pieces of the game that have been overlooked: Schools using diversity propaganda to mask hidden segregation-like situations, systemic hostility, abandonment of minority students, and inequitable funding to schools with lower economic status.

With this first move, we need to protect the king on the board, bringing up the most critical matter: How we fund our schools. For years, local property taxes have allowed the wealthy to build educational fortresses with the opposing team effectively protecting this piece on e8, the king. To stop this, the government must pool property taxes and distribute funds based entirely on students’ needs, not merely for the wealth of each neighborhood. We must strip this advantage away, so a child’s education is never determined by a zip code.

However, fixing the unfair distribution of money is only the opening play; we must also tackle the opposing team’s queen, the legal games that mask modern segregation. As pointed out in my last article, Jonathan Kozol showed how politicians enjoy claiming that integration “failed” just so they can sit comfortably in a deeply-separated society. To interposition the queen, we need to break up these hyper-segregated zones, using monthly checks to ensure school lines are no longer used as borders to keep the disadvantaged students out.

Checkmating this uneven playing field won’t happen overnight, but the game immediately changes the moment we refuse to let children be treated as disposable pawns. By fighting for equitable funding, we must break through the king’s defenses—smothering it, in fact, so we can successfully turn schools into places that truly support mental health, erasing this stylized segregation.

When all of this happens, we will finally have smothered mate!

Featured

Rio de Brooklyn 

By: BHS News Staff

September 15, 2026

Welcome to Volume 2 of the 2026-2027 news. 

This article will be focused on Homecoming and all of the festivities that make up this annual tradition.

This year’s Homecoming theme is Rio at Sunset. It was picked over the Summer, so there is no doubt that this will be an exciting evening on Saturday, September 26. For the dance itself, food and refreshments will be available for purchase, along with a DJ and a photobooth. 

Speaking of Homecoming, 10 of Brooklyn High School’s very own seniors are on the ballot for this year’s king and queen crowns. As always, it’s going to be a tight race between the five girls and the five boys (see below). This Friday, the candidates will have the chance to sway the underclassmen vote during the Get-to-Know-the-Candidates assembly. After school-wide voting, each king and queen candidate will then compete amongst one another in a series of games during the pep rally, scheduled for the afternoon of September 25. 

Good luck to all of the candidates.

Regarding tickets, students must have all of their Final Forms completed before purchasing a ticket. Each ticket is $25 and will be available during lunch.

Also, any student who would like to invite someone who is not from Brooklyn High School must get a guest pass from either the front office or from Mrs. Bader. Guest passes have to be filled out by the guest’s principal and turned in before a ticket can be purchased. These are due this week on Thursday. 

While Homecoming information is still being released, for any questions or concerns, please contact Mrs. Bader.

Finally, here is the calendar for September:

  • September 18: Homecoming Assembly 
  • September 21-25: Safety Week  
  • September 24: Hall of Fame Ceremony
  • September 25: Senior Luncheon
  • September 25: Homecoming Pep Rally
  • September 25: Homecoming Varsity Football vs. Beachwood
  • September 26: Homecoming Dance

Have an amazing second week of September, fellow Hurricanes.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Madelyn Barrow

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

September 14, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Madelyn Barrow. Maddie describes herself as kind, social, and productive. She has been at Brooklyn High School for four years and works as a manager at Firehouse Subs. In her free time, she enjoys drawing and driving around with her friends. She is also involved in soccer, which is something that she will truly miss after graduation. Speaking of post-graduation, Maddie plans to attend college and pursue a career in Early Childhood Education.

Q: What is one thing you’re going to miss about high school?
A: “Playing soccer.”

Q: What is one thing you definitely won’t miss about high school?
A: “Waking up early.”

Q: What is something you wish you had done differently in high school?
A: “Put more effort into my classes.”

Q: What is a random fact about yourself that most people don’t know?
A: “I was born in the state of Washington.”

Q: If you could travel to any place in the world, where would you go?
A: “Europe, specifically Ireland or Germany because I’ve always wanted to go to these countries.”

Q: What is your favorite school event or tradition?
A: “Color Wars.”

Q: If you could switch lives with any teacher for a day, who would it be?
A: “Ms. Spuzzillo. She always tells stories about her weekends or trips, and I want to do some of the stuff that she does, especially traveling.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?
A: “Ms. Spuzzillo because she is always there for me and willing to help when I need it most.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Maddie. Good luck with soccer, attending college, pursuing a career in Early Childhood Education, and all of the exciting opportunities that await you this year and beyond.

Featured

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Capacetti

*Brooklyn High School Principal*

By: Grace Paul

September 11, 2026

Chosen for this year’s first Staff Spotlight is Mr. Jean Capacetti, first-year principal at Brooklyn High School. Mr. Capacetti previously was the principal of Northwood Middle School in the Elyria City Schools, and before that an assistant principal at Midview Local Schools. Something interesting about Mr. Capacetti is that he served as a Spanish teacher for 13 years.

Q. What made you want to become a principal?

A. “I wanted to become a principal pretty soon after becoming a teacher. I knew I could have a bigger impact.”  

Q. What are some goals you have for this school year?

A. “I have three main goals. One, create a phone-free culture. Two, improve school spirit with students and staff. Three, increase student collaboration and student response frequency in the classrooms.” 

Q. How do you promote student engagement and school pride?

A. “Well, last Friday, we had a huge pep rally in the morning at 5:00. We also had a tailgate before the game for those students who had perfect attendance so far. I am looking for a junior or senior to help lead the student section at football games, too.” 

Q. What do you want people to know about this school that they may not already know?

A. “It is going to be the best year ever!”

Q. What was the most significant life lesson ever taught to you?

A. “That’s a tough one. Life has taught me a lot of lessons. The most important one is that people you love will pass on. It’s not worth staying mad about things. Treat other people with love and work through issues.” 

Q. What is your favorite vacation spot?

A. “My parents’ house in Florida.” 

Q. What food can you always find yourself eating?

A. “Strawberry Uncrustables.”

Q. What do you like to do outside of school?

A. “Be a dad to my three kids (Eve, Aria, and Carlos). I also Salsa dance, play guitar, and help my wife with anything she needs.” 

Thank you for your responses, Mr. Capacetti. I wish you all the best in your first year as principal at Brooklyn High School.

Featured

Not Too Far Away   

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 10, 2026

Finally, sports is back!

As the Fall teams are now in full swing, success in football, soccer, and volleyball has been difficult to come by to this point; however, small victories can do wonders when it comes to confidence and growth.

The beginning of this season has been a struggle for the varsity volleyball team. After an 0-5 start, the Lady Hurricanes were looking to notch their first victory as they hosted the 4-2 Beachwood Bison a week ago today.

In their first set, the Lady Canes played well, but the visiting Bison pulled away by a 25-16 final score.

Set two is when the Hurricanes built some confidence and went back-and-forth with Beachwood, falling by a razor-thin margin of 26-24. More on this set soon. 

In the third and soon-to-be final set of the evening, the Lady Canes ran out of gas and fell 25-7. Beachwood’s three-set sweep dropped the Lady Canes to 0-6, still searching for their first victory.

Standout players for the Hurricanes were sophomore Reem Raad and senior Niema Davis. Raad saved a lot of balls from touching the floor with quick thinking and digging. Davis played well by receiving the serves with great defense and blocks at the net.

Another bright side, set two will hopefully be a springboard for this young team as they continue to learn the game, grow in their skills, and develop the necessary chemistry and confidence to be successful. There are still many opportunities and opponents remaining, and we wish the girls nothing but the best.

On a positive note, the junior varsity team did indeed beat Beachwood in a best-of-three series, 2-1. This win gave the team their first victory of the season with many more wins, hopefully, in the very near future.

Well done, girls.

Both the varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams return to action tonight as they host the Richmond Heights Spartans.

Here is the September schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics:

  • September 10: Volleyball vs. Richmond Heights
  • September 10: Boys Soccer vs. Parma Valley Forge
  • September 10: Girls Soccer vs. Canton McKinley
  • September 11: Football @ Cuyahoga Heights
  • September 12: Boys & Girls Soccer vs. Lakeside
  • September 14: Girls Soccer @ Keystone
  • September 15: Boys Soccer vs. Cuyahoga Heights 
  • September 15: Volleyball @ Fairview
  • September 16: Girls Soccer vs. Cuyahoga Heights 
  • September 16: Volleyball vs. Cuyahoga Heights 
  • September 17: Football vs. Fairport
  • September 19: Volleyball vs. Medina Christian
  • September 22: Volleyball @ Trinity  
  • September 22: Boys Soccer @ Fairview
  • September 22: Girls Soccer @ Fairview
  • September 24: Volleyball @ Independence
  • September 25: Football vs. Beachwood
  • September 28: Boys Soccer vs. Horizon Science Academy
  • September 28: Girls Soccer @ Ellet
  • September 28: Volleyball @ Parma Valley Forge
  • September 29: Volleyball @ Beachwood 
  • September 29: Boys Soccer @ Ellet  

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, please visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

Included Only When the Cameras Roll

By: BHS Features Staff

September 9, 2026

Here at The Return of the Eye, the Features Staff writes on a wide range of topics that are non-Brooklyn-related. These topics can vary from local, state, and national entertainment pieces to those that are geared towards informing our dedicated readers on important matters. Speaking of important matters, this first article outlines the struggles of the American Public School system. So, let’s get right into it.

When you click on a modern public school website, what do you see? Most likely, you will see children smiling brightly, pencils gripped in their hands, eager to learn, with the glossy, diverse family photo gradually shifting from light to dark. They emphasize the spread of diversity, showing how the kids accept everyone, no matter the hue painted on their bodies.

But beyond these photogenic, shining smiles of children is a deeper issue. Unfortunately, segregation in American school systems—despite the laws—never actually ended; it was stylized. 

Spanning across the U.S., some public schools often use this diversity marketing to exhibit an image of harmony while simultaneously maintaining a crack in the road: An unequal system driven by race and money. Based on careful research, modern education systems use the illusion of equality to deflect responsibility and protect the wealthy, leaving minority students to bear the weight of systemic abandonment and hostility. 

For years, schools have used these propagandized images to hide students who are still divided by race and money. In his work, Nick Hanauer points out that politicians, economists, and society love to push what he calls “educationism.” This is the confusing idea that both poverty and rising inequality are largely consequences of America’s failing education system. Instead of blaming economic inequality, they use educationism to place a weighted blame on schools, tilting the balance and therefore limiting the rich’s expenses regarding the school system. This thinking is incredibly common among the wealthy, forming another way to prevent their money from going to charity.

Jonathan Kozol shows a similar perspective, arguing that the people in power use a fashionable reflex nowadays to declare that integration “failed,” so they can accept an “equal” society through which it is clearly separated. Kozol has provided meticulous data to prove that these hyper-segregated environments function within an apartheid education. In “Overcoming Apartheid,” Kozol portrays this neglect by showing state governments defunding successful urban-suburban transfer programs, similar to the plans in Milwaukee and St. Louis, even though students have visibly stunning graduation rates. He shows how unfair this neglect is, highlighting how politicians chose to fiercely oppose integration plans that work, which nevertheless forced minority students back into isolated systems.

Nikole Hannah-Jones bridges these ideas, showing how schools use different legal maneuvers to mask segregation. Across these bodies of text, it becomes clear that schools across the U.S. use diversity, socioeconomic status, or race to mask a hostile and divided reality. This systematic issue (how budget cuts, administrative neglect, and the abandonment of minority students affect what type of education they receive) is deeply entrenched. 

When adults lock their voices and zip their lips about racial hostility, you force these children to carry this psychological burden that being quiet is better than ever speaking at all. This tells marginalized students that their peace is secondary to adults having comfortable conversations to lead the next generation.

Hannah-Jones gives another example of this abandonment when she observes the Normandy School District in Missouri, revealing how state officials and the court system repeatedly fail to step in and protect black students, letting schools lose their accreditation and ultimately leaving vulnerable kids stranded. 

Hanauer pushes economics into the mix, pointing out that “family circumstances explain 60 percent [of student outcomes].” Taken together, the evidence suggests educational inequality isn’t an accident but a well-planned chess match marked by political and clinical abandonment by those in charge.

Beyond the continuous trauma that minority students face in numerous public schools, it’s this institutional silence that continues to spread like the plague, especially in low-income households where students have to run from school to school, moving just so their parents can find some stable income to support their families. 

This isn’t just political failure; it is continuous trauma that breaks student friendships, decays mental health, and pushes vulnerable families to the brink of exhaustion. 

So, how do we fix this? Stay tuned for next week’s article on solutions and steps forward.

(Information sourced from: ProPublica, The Atlantic, and The Nation.)

Featured

News-ly Under Construction

By: BHS News Staff

September 8, 2026

New, new, new! New administration, new lockers, new rooms, and new classes are here, all at once.  

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year, which has started off with a lot of humidity (and with many complaints regarding the state-wide phone ban).

Beginning in early May of last Spring, the band wing and the auditorium were torn apart. This construction was expedited once all of the high school windows were replaced. Multiple other building projects started over the Summer, too, so let’s dive into them.

First, the science wing is currently being gutted and renovated with Mr. Roegiers and Mrs. Chrzan both getting brand new rooms with updated and modern layouts. When asked when the new rooms will be up and running, Mr. Roegiers said “probably during the second semester”. After these well-needed changes are completed, hopefully the horrendous humidity will be offset by the new air conditioning unit. 

Next, the band wing is seeing substantial updates. Specifically, Mr. Sullivan’s and Mrs. Cipriani’s offices are being moved within the new layout. There is also a new ramp that is already installed leading into the band room. 

The auditorium’s (soon to be named Performing Arts Center) design includes air conditioning, new theater seats, new ceilings, new lights, and new sound panels. There will also be a new sound and projector system installed, which is the same one that Ohio State University utilizes. The Performing Arts Center will officially be completed by March 1; however, Dr. Caleris is hosting an open house for the public to walk through and see the finished product on March 20.

Finally, upcoming projects will include the building being repainted, the floors getting redone, a new elevator, and they will be completely redoing the front entrance. 

These renovations are sure to make the building more appealing to the eyes, both inside and out. Thank you, Dr. Caleris!

Here is the calendar for September:

  • September 18: Homecoming Assembly 
  • September 21-25: Safety Week  
  • September 24: Hall of Fame Ceremony
  • September 25: Senior Luncheon
  • September 25: Homecoming Pep Rally
  • September 25: Homecoming Varsity Football vs. Beachwood
  • September 26: Homecoming Dance

Have an amazing second week of September, fellow Hurricanes. Enjoy the weather while it’s here.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Braelyn Gardner

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

September 7, 2026

Brooklyn, we are back and better than ever! The staff at The Return of the Eye hopes that everyone’s Summer went well and that Hurricane Nation is ready for a successful 2026-2027 school year.

Now, it’s time for the weekly Senior Spotlight.

Chosen for this year’s first Senior Spotlight is Braelyn Gardner. Braelyn describes himself as strong, funny, and courageous. He has been at Brooklyn High School for two years and works part-time at Culver’s. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, his favorite and main sport. After graduation, he plans to continue playing basketball while studying Sports Medicine. A fun fact about Braelyn is that one of his biggest accomplishments during high school was receiving a Division II basketball offer.

Q: In what ways do you think you’ve changed since your freshman year?

A: “I’m a lot less shy.”

Q: What is something on your bucket list?

A: “I want to travel the world.”

Q: What is your biggest accomplishment during high school?

A: “I got a D2 offer.”

Q: What class did you enjoy more than you expected?

A: “Latin II at Iggy (St. Ignatius).”

Q: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you at school?

A: “When I broke my foot and had to use crutches, I fell in front of, like, the whole school.”

Q: What is something you’re proud of for overcoming?

A: “I used to be scared of anything that wasn’t home, so I always stayed at home.”

Q: Where do you enjoy traveling?

A: “I love going to Pennsylvania for basketball.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?

A: “Mr. Wimbiscus. He was my freshman Modern World History teacher when I went to St. Ignatius.”

Thank you for your participation in this year’s first Senior Spotlight, Braelyn. Good luck with basketball, studying Sports Medicine, and all of the opportunities that await you after graduation.

Featured

“School’s Out”

By: The Return of the Eye

June 1, 2026

You are probably wondering why the title of this final article is in quotes. The answer is simple, just ask Alice Cooper with his great hit, “School’s Out”.

After 10 months of learning, social interaction, testing, personal growth, successes/failures, and bipolar weather patterns, the time has finally come for Hurricane Nation to take some needed time off.

Summer brings excitement to all. Some take vacations, some play travel baseball, some catch-up on home improvement projects, and some simply take advantage of not setting the alarm clock. Whatever your plans are, embrace them, make memories, and do not think about school until mid-August.

In this final article of the 2025-2026 academic year, The Return of the Eye’s staff will be sharing what this Summer will look like for them.

Reese Alonso

“This Summer, I am going to babysit a lot. I will also be going on vacation to Boardwalk Village in Celina, Ohio. I am also going to be celebrating my brother graduating high school and moving on into the real world. I will be working on getting my knee back to being normal, too, so I can start back-up in sports and also prepare for my junior year, starting at Polaris. I would like to find a job this Summer, other than babysitting, and go to Cedar Point. I hope I can get my license before my junior year, but I had to take a step back because of my knee. My goal is to get a tan and have a great Summer, overall.”

Adam Chafki

“With my free time in the Summer, I will definitely be working at the school because I’m broke, and I’m tired of looking at people who spend money. I will be training my hardest to be a better basketball player than I already am. I can finally relax about not feeling stressed from people and assignments from school for a while. I want to use the time I have for my job, basketball, and to really think about who I am and what I want. Not to mention, I’ll be playing games, relaxing, and just enjoying time to myself. I do want to go to places like South Carolina and possibly Kalahari. Of course, I need to get prepared for the next school year, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. My final goal near the end of the Summer is to really reflect on what I’ve accomplished and what I still have left to do.”

Katie Estrella

“This Summer, I am going to be working at the school. I will also be working my regular job at Chick-fil-A. Additionally, I will be training for my junior season of volleyball here at Brooklyn and also preparing for Polaris. I would like to travel and visit new places that I have never been to. I really would like to go to cities such as New York, Chicago, and then go back to Florida to visit my family. I hope to also visit new trails and waterfalls with my friends and have good Summer nights. My final goal is also to get extremely tan. Towards the end of the Summer, I will start preparing for the upcoming school year.” 

Gaven McCanelley

“This Summer, I am going to be working on an internship at an auto shop. I will also be working at my job at Grocery Outlet. Additionally, I am going to be doing three sports. I have hockey camps set up as well as a bowling league in addition to practicing my soccer skills with open fields and on my own time, working on ball handles and kick power. My family is also planning to go out to multiple amusement parks since we are a part of the American Coaster Enthusiasts. I will also be hanging out with my best friend Gibran Boukzam and, hopefully, getting my drivers license towards the end of Summer. Plus, a little sleep here and there. Yes, I’m looking forward to the time off from school.”

Caylee Pimentel

“This Summer, I plan on working at the school while also spending time with my friends and family. I am really excited to go to New York and make fun memories there. I would also love to go back to the Dominican Republic because I enjoy being there and spending time with family. Another thing I am excited about is going to Polaris for Medical Professions because I want to learn more about the medical field and prepare for my future. I think it will be a fun and interesting experience for me. I also want to hang out with my friends, go swimming, and try new things. I hope this Summer is full of fun memories and exciting opportunities. Overall, I want to enjoy my break, spend time with the people I care about, and get ready for the new school year.”

Ben Denovchek

“This Summer, I hope to better myself. Getting my license will also be a highlight that hopefully doesn’t end sourly. I’ll continue to play soccer and hockey, finally being able to drive myself to 7:00 in the morning conditioning instead of walking in the dark. I plan to go to more concerts during the Summer, too. While the costs of concerts are rising, I think I’d still find myself spending money for the experience. My close friend (pictured above) also said we could take his jetski out for the Summer, which will definitely be a highlight, even though I have to pay for the gas. I hope I go places I’ve never been before, although no vacation is set in stone as of now. I’m sure something will arise.” 

Rayna Hines

“It is truly upsetting knowing this is my last article, as I will not be in this class next year. However, I have plans for after school lets out. This Summer, my mom and I are planning to go to Cedar Point for the first time. She told me she was so excited to finally be able to go and try out the rides. I am also planning on taking my friends with me later on and making sure they do not use all of my money on stupid things. The only thing that I have to worry about this Summer is whether or not I’m going to puke on a rollercoaster. Along with Cedar Point, I’m hoping to go to Edgewater Park again because last year, we went, and it was amazing. Not only did we swim, but we went out to dinner, went to the mall, and had a wonderful bonding time, too. Hanging out with my friends will always be a priority during the Summer. No matter what I do, it will always be a relief to finally be done with school.” 

As we head off for a much-needed Summer vacation, we would like to sincerely thank all of our subscribers and readers for making this student-led newspaper possible. Our growing audience means the world to us, so thank you for being avid readers and supporters. 

The Return of the Eye will be back in action come August. Happy Summer, Hurricane Nation!

Featured

Rapid Fire: Ms. Velez 

*Spanish Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

May 29, 2026

Q: Tropical or Forest?

A: “Tropical.” 

Q: Favorite graduating class that you have taught?

A: “2024.” 

Q: What is the best way to maintain your Spanish?

A: “Finding a Spanish speaker to talk with.” 

Q: Speak all languages or play all instruments?

A: “Speak all languages.” 

Q: If you were not a teacher, what would you be?

A: “Journalist or Interpreter.” 

Q: What is non-negotiable in your classroom?

A: “Don’t curse.” 

Q: What is a subject that should be brought back to school?

A: “Home Economics.” 

Q: Favorite traditional dish?

A: “Los Tres Golpes.” 

Q: Favorite way to spend your Summer?

A: “Deep cleaning, vacation with my kids, and waking up late.” 

Q: Favorite Hispanic show?

A: “Sabado Gigante.” 

Have a great weekend, Brooklyn!

Featured

So Close Yet So Far Away

By: BHS Sports Staff 

May 28, 2026

For the first time since 2018, our beloved Cleveland Cavaliers earned a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals. Vibes were high, and fans had reserved-optimism. However, after a four-game sweep courtesy of the New York Knicks, the Cavs have many questions to answer during this offseason as to how to turn this franchise into an NBA Finals contender.

First, let’s recap their playoff run.

During the first round, it took the Cavs seven games to oust the Toronto Raptors. They started off with a two-game lead, but then the Raptors came back to win games three and four. The Cavs came back home for game five and won but lost game six in Toronto. Fortunately, game seven was in Cleveland, and the Wine and Gold finished the job with the final score of 114-102, advancing to the second round. 

Round two had a similar script as the Cavs went to seven games again, this time against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons. The Pistons took the first two games, but the Cavs won games three and four. Cleveland stole a road win in Motown in game five to take a 3-2 series lead but then laid an egg at home in game six. Going back to Detroit for the decisive game seven, the Cavs steamrolled the Pistons 125-94 to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Cavaliers blew a 22-point, fourth lead in game one and never recovered, leading to the embarrassing, four-game sweep.

  • Game 1: Knicks 115, Cavs 104
  • Game 2: Knicks 109, Cavs 93
  • Game 3: Knicks 121, Cavs 108
  • Game 4: Knicks 130, Cavs 93

Critics say that the Cavs improved by getting to the Eastern Conference Finals, while others conclude that they did not show growth because they could not win a single game in the ECF. What do you say, successful season or not?

Regardless, there is a lot of uncertainty going forward, yet we are excited to see how everything plays out.

Tough ending for the Cavaliers, but hey, at least we have the Guardians, right?

Featured

Wingin’ It

By: BHS Features Staff

May 27, 2026

With an entire year featuring movies, fashion, local restaurants, and fun-filled attractions, we are ending on a “wing”. 

What is a Summer party without chicken wings? Chicken is beloved by many, so this entire article will feature the top options for crispy, delicious, and flavorful poultry. 

With over 28,000 chicken restaurants statewide alone, it can be overwhelming to choose a place to go, so what follows is our top four establishments that you should try.

Wingstop

Known for having the best ranch on the entire planet, here is Wingstop. With a plethora of tenders, wings, and flavors to choose from, you will absolutely find something to enjoy. Other than the chicken, the fries are tasty, too. 

Huey Magoo’s

Rather than single-item tenders, Huey Magoo’s offers meals worth the price. The chicken is ultra-juicy and well-seasoned, but it can have a little too much salt. The only other real criticism that has been said is that the chicken is served in styrofoam, but that is mostly a nitpick.

Chicken Guy

Located on the Walt Disney property along with other locations, Chicken Guy provides not only their larger-than-average tenders but also chicken sandwiches that are quite enormous, too. With many top-secret spices used and extreme juiciness, there is a flavor that rivals even Huey Magoo’s. Imagine eating a chicken sandwich with Donald Duck.

Raising Cane’s

Of course, one of the most well-known chicken places made the list: Raising Cane’s. The iconic sauce they serve is not something you can get anywhere else. Its unique flavor, especially when dipped with bread or chicken, is one of a kind. One of the best qualities of this restaurant is that if you do not want a certain item in your box, you can substitute it with extra bread, fries, chicken, or coleslaw. 

Seeing as the Summer is about to officially begin, you have plenty of time to try all of these chicken establishments. Of course, there are many opinions, but we all know who the true king of chicken is: Cane’s or Wingstop, no doubt.

{Editor’s Note: Great list, but the best is Chick-fil-A.}

Enjoy your Summer break full of fun, sun, and CHICKEN!

{Information for this article sourced from Food Republic and ChowHound.}

Featured

School’s Out, News Drought

By: BHS News Staff

May 26, 2026

We trust that everyone enjoyed their Memorial Day weekend and paid tribute to those who served for the freedoms that we experience today.

Yesterday was the 159th anniversary of Memorial Day, and each year, Brooklyn hosts a parade to remember and honor those who have passed away in the armed services.

The early morning dew foreshadowed the gray, calm skies that were present throughout the parade and ceremony; however, the sky beautifully opened up in the afternoon with a breezy 70 degrees for reflection and family barbecues. 

Memorial Day is always a sad day, but is a beautiful reminder that our loved ones can serve more than just our families and communities and can protect an entire nation when they put their lives on the line.

To all of those who did not come back, we are eternally-grateful for your sacrifices. 

Moving along, with graduation less than 100 hours away, the Class of 2026 has spent the last four years at Brooklyn High School and cannot be more excited to receive their diplomas. Please come to commencement this Friday at the stadium (6:00) and congratulate these seniors on achieving this milestone.

Additionally, Prom took place last Friday at Windows on the River, and it was a great success. A big shout-out to Mrs. Holko and the prom committee for putting on such a wonderful and memorable event. We would also like to congratulate Adam Cowper and Lauren Atanacio for winning prom king and queen.

To conclude, we are sad to see our cherished principal Mr. Larson resign as our leader at the end of this school year. However, we would like to send a congratulations to him with his new central office post within the district. Mr. Larson, thank you for everything you did for the students and staff. Even though you will still be in the building, we will miss you.

This will be the final news article for the 2025-2026 school year, so thank you for being a part of this year-long journey.

Here is the final schedule of the school year:

  • May 27: Senior Clap-out & Graduation Practice 
  • May 29: Graduation
  • June 4: Last Day of School

Have an amazing final week of May, fellow Hurricanes.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part IV

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 22, 2026

Today, we wrap-up the tributes to our amazing senior journalists with a first-year writer and a four-year veteran.

Senior Journalist #7: Ankita Monger

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “My greatest memory would have to be meeting the right people and how they led me to become a better version of myself.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered as somebody who was optimistic and open-minded.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “My plan after graduation is to attend Cosmetology/Nail school, get my certificate and licence, and then start my career in this field.”

As Ankita graduates and begins her journey in the Cosmetology field, she is excited to turn her passion into a career where she can help others feel confident and beautiful. High school taught her the importance of hard work, determination, and believing in herself, lessons that she will carry with her. She is thankful for everyone who supported and encouraged her along the way. While this chapter is ending, a new and exciting future is just beginning. Congratulations, Ankita!

Senior Journalist #8: Jacob “Wild Fire” Collins

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “All of the friendships I have made and playing baseball.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “As Brooklyn High School’s greatest journalist of all time.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I will attend The University of Akron for a degree in Communication and Media Studies.”

Jacob has been a journalist since his freshman year, leading to his dream of becoming a Sports Broadcaster. He uses his talents and daily leads the entire Journalism class. It is sad to say goodbye to the Journalism King, but we wish him well as a Zip. Congratulations, Jacob!

Congratulations to both Ankita and Jacob. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Everyone here at The Return of the Eye wishes all eight of these senior journalists the very best as they begin their next chapter of life. We are forever grateful for your hard work and dedication to our newspaper and to BHS as a whole. You will all be dearly missed.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend, Brooklyn.

Featured

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part III

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 21, 2026

First, it was Amir and his vet future, followed by Devin and his basketball skills. Then, it was Jeremiah and his love for cars, concluding with Justin and the pigskin. 

Let’s continue with day three of tributes to two more senior journalists.

Senior Journalist #5: Nicolle Thomas Garcia

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “My greatest memory from school was every single game I went to. Football games, basketball games, and the people participating at the games.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered for my positive attitude and participating in school spirit, going to sporting events, decorating hallways, and being involved in the school.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “My plan after graduation is to attend Ohio State for Biomedical Engineering.” 

Nicolle has been in Journalism for two years. We are going to miss her in the sports group because she was amazing in it. We wish her the best when she goes off to college and hope she continues her positive influence.

Senior Journalist #6: Summer Barnes

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Honestly, I have two great memories that will probably stick with me forever. The first one is getting the nickname ‘Jingles’ from Mr. Holko. He could always hear my purse and key chains jingling down the hallway before I even walked into class. Every time I came in, he would yell ‘JINGLES!’ It seems like a small thing, but it became one of my favorite parts of every school day. My second favorite memory is from junior year when I had lunch with my three best friends: Cleo, Logan, and Ashley. No matter how stressful school got, we always found a way to make each other laugh and make the best of every day. Those are definitely the moments I will miss the most.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want people to remember me as someone who made a positive difference in their lives. Over the past four years, I have formed strong connections with teachers and students, which means a lot to me. One of the best feelings is walking into the school where I have spent the last four years and seeing people genuinely happy to see me. I also want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, stayed focused, and kept going even when times were tough. High school was not always easy, but I always tried to stay positive and be myself through everything.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “After graduation, I plan to work full-time at my current job while continuing my education at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) to become a Dietary Manager. I am excited to keep building a future for myself and gaining more independence along the way. Eventually, I would also love to get into sports journalism, specifically for wrestling, because both wrestling and writing are things I have always enjoyed. Right now, I am still figuring life out one step at a time, but I am eager to see where life takes me.”

Throughout Summer’s high school journey, she faced many ups and downs. She tackled each challenge with strength, resilience, and a positive attitude. She always tried to uplift those around her and be a good influence. High school transformed Summer into a kind, determined, and strong person. Although this chapter is ending, the growth, lessons, and memories from these years will stay with her forever. Summer, you did it. Congratulations!

Congratulations to both Nicolle and Summer. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, the senior journalism tributes will wrap-up.

Have a wonderful day, Hurricane Nation.

Featured

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part II

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 20, 2026

Yesterday, we featured Amir and Devin, so let’s continue on with tributes to two more senior journalists.

Senior Journalist #3: Jeremiah Medina

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Freshman year when Nick Chubbs jumped on the table in Study Hall and broke it.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered for my Sports Car.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “Hopefully, go straight into the Automotive industry.”

Follow your dreams, Jeremiah. We all have to sacrifice things in life to get where we want to be, but never let that sacrifice be yourself. Stay true to who you are, keep pushing forward when life gets difficult, and never lose the parts of yourself that make you who you are. No matter what happens, smile. 

Senior Journalist #4: Justin Lewis

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Junior year Chemistry because the class was really difficult, but it was a really fun class. I’d say it was worth it because of the funny memories.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered as the guy who showed up, did his thing, and stayed true to himself. To all the underclassmen, your dreams are big, and remember who you are. You only live through high school once.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I plan to attend Heidelberg University to major in Business as well as keep up with my football career to stay true to my identity.”

Congratulations on graduating from high school, Justin. Remember to keep up the good work at Heidelberg University. We hope you have an amazing Summer break, too; it is much needed after such an accomplishment.  

Congratulations to both Jeremiah and Justin. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, there will be two more tributes.

Have a wonderful day, fellow Hurricanes.

Featured

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part I

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 19, 2026

Sometimes while living in the present, the hands of time seem to move very slowly. However, when reflecting back on the beginning of the school year in August to where we currently are in May, it appears that time does indeed go by quickly.

For this entire week, the underclassmen writers for The Return of the Eye will pay tribute and say goodbye to our eight wonderful and well-rounded senior journalists.

As these eight seniors finish up their high school careers, it is time to hear from them before they receive their diplomas on Friday, May 29.

Senior Journalist #1: Amir Green

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Being in Sister Act as a freshman. There were so many insanely-talented people in the Cast, Pit, and Crew. It was my favorite musical I’ve been a part of.” 

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered as someone who is musically-talented, while also being a caring and thoughtful friend to those around me.” 

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I plan to attend Cleveland State University with a major in Pre-Veterinarian Services and Medicine.” 

Amir was a four-year Marching Band member as well as a four-year member of the Pit Band. He joined Journalism this past year and assisted the news group to create some of the best articles to date. We hope Amir does well at CSU as he works with animals and makes the world a better place, one beat at a time. 

Senior Journalist #2: Devin Hardwick

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “The time I broke the school record for most points in a basketball game.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “Motivation to the youth and inspiration to not only my peers but to my family, too.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “Going to college (still undecided) and planning to major in Business and minor in Communication.”

Throughout his time in basketball, this ultimate baller has shown us incredible feats on the court. From breaking a school record to becoming the best player of his time at Brooklyn, who knows what other great things will come his way? We sincerely are proud of his successes, and we hope for the best in his future basketball career. Congratulations on graduating from Brooklyn, Devin!

Congratulations to both Amir and Devin. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, there will be two more tributes. Stay tuned.

Have a wonderful balmy day, Brooklyn.

Featured

Rapid Fire: Mr. Taylor

*Study Skills Monitor/Assistant Basketball Coach*

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

May 15, 2026

Q: Fruits or vegetables? 

A: “Fruits.”

Q: AAU or high school season?

A: “AAU.”

Q: What’s the best advice that you would give to incoming high school athletes?

A: “Not allowed to be lazy, and if you’re on time, you’re late.”

Q: Greatest strength?

A: “Caring and knowledgeable.”

Q: Greatest weakness?

A: “Time Management.”

Q: How do you handle stress? 

A: “Staying calm and thinking through it.”

Q: Biggest goal in life?

A: “Making sure my family is good, no matter what happened to me.”

Q: Lebron or Jordan?

A: “LeBron but Jordan is second.”

{Editor’s Note: False, MJ will always be ranked number one.}

Q: Who is going to win the NBA championship?

A: “San Antonio Spurs.”

Q: Can we finally open the window?

A: “No, absolutely not.”

Have a wonderful weekend, Brooklyn!

Featured

Honoring Softball Seniors

By: BHS Sports Staff 

May 14, 2026

Last Thursday, the softball team hosted its Senior Night against the Lawrence Upper Lions. The girls were searching for their first win of the season and seemed to have the “upper” (Get it?) hand. 

Before the official first pitch, the team honored seniors Delaney Burke, Abigail Cruz, Gianna Garcia, Nicolle Thomas Garcia, Hailey Kekic, and Jayrine Camacho Ramos for their dedication throughout the season as well as their high school careers. 

Now, onto the game.

The Lady Canes found their way on base via walks, a lot of them. The Lions’ starter walked 14 batters in the first 1.2 innings. By then, the Hurricanes had already scored 12 runs. 

Freshman Jocelyn Vega started the game on the mound for the Hurricanes and only gave up two hits in five innings. The Lions, in total, tallied four runs and that was nowhere near enough to steal a road victory. 

The free passes kept coming for the Hurricanes with a seventh grader coming in to pitch for the Lions, and she walked 10 batters in 2.1 innings. 

In the end, the Hurricanes grabbed their first victory of the season. 

Final Score: Brooklyn 21, Lawrence Upper 4. 

Side note: The Hurricanes voted for their fellow teammates to receive awards at the end of the season. The team MVP was four-year member Nicolle Thomas Garcia. She displayed hard work and what it means to be a leader. The Most Improved Award went to freshman Raegan Burke. She held down center field for the Canes. Lastly, the Hurricane Award, given to the girl for the most team spirit, was freshman Zoe Schultz. She came every day to practice with a positive mindset to help guide the team. 

The softball season came to an end last night in their Sectional loss to Dalton. Nonetheless, we want to congratulate the girls on their Senior Night victory and wish the seniors the very best of luck in their future endeavors. 

Here is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

  • May 14: Baseball vs. Normandy – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
  • May 16: Baseball vs. John Hay (11:00)
  • May 19: Baseball @ Oberlin (5:00)
  • May 20: Baseball @ Keystone – SECTIONALS (5:00)

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

Toy Story 5

By: BHS Features Staff

May 13, 2026

First, the King of Pop. Then, the Galaxy. Now, the Buddy Adventure as our movie preview section continues.  

Who doesn’t love a childhood classic where all of the nostalgia is brought back to life? Let’s rewind back a bit and take a look at how Toy Story carried our childhood from then to now. 

On November 22, 1995, the first Toy Story movie was released, having a bunch of fans going crazy over it. The movie itself received a Special Achievement Academy Award and is known for being the first animated film to be nominated for Best Original Screenplay.

In the first Toy Story, Woody feels threatened when his owner Andy brings home a new high-tech Buzz Lightyear action figure for his birthday. With Buzz Lightyear believing he’s a real space ranger, Woody believes that Buzz is Andy’s new favorite toy, leading to jealousy between the two. After Woody accidentally knocks Buzz out of the window, they both are faced with the crazy neighbor Sid, and they both must work together and return to Andy before his family moves away.

With Toy Story 2 having its big release in 1999, fans gave it as much hype as the first one with there being new characters added to the movie and a whole new story with Woody, Buzz, and their friends facing an unfamiliar antagonist.

With Woody being stolen by a very greedy collector named Al McWhiggin, Buzz Lightyear and his friends plan a rescue mission before Woody is sold to a museum in Japan. But, while Woody is kidnapped, he finds out about his past and finds out there are more toys that belong to his own play set. Jessie and Bullseye are a part of his playset, so Woody comes up with an idea of bringing them home to be Andy’s new toys. 

Then, we have Toy Story 3. With Toy Story 3 coming out in 2010, fans waited almost a decade for this movie to be released.

In Toy Story 3, Andy is getting ready to leave for college, and Woody and his friends find themselves heading for the attic but mistakenly wind up on the curb as trash. But Woody’s quick thinking saved him and his buddies, and everyone, but Woody, ended up being donated to Sunnyside Daycare. Unfortunately, the kids do not play nice, so Woody and their friends make a great plan to escape.

Released in 2019, Toy Story 4 follows Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends on a road trip with their new owner Bonnie. Woody reunites with Bo Peep and helps a handmade toy named Forky embrace his purpose. Woody ultimately chooses to leave his friends and Bonnie, sharing an emotional goodbye with Buzz Lightyear and the others to become a “lost toy”. He stays with Bo Peep and passes his sheriff badge onto Jessie. 

With all the sequences being created and enjoyed by all, it won’t be the last time you get to see these beloved characters. Toy Story 5 will soon be released in theaters on June 19. In the new movie, not only will you see Woody and friends, there will also be new additions, creating suspense and a threat to the original toys. 

In the new Toy Story 5 trailer, it gives a little preview about how modern technology is slowly taking over traditional toys, leading the toys to face their toughest challenge. The old toys may be left and feel forgotten, so in order to be remembered, they must compete with screen time for Bonnie’s attention. 

Not only is this new release exciting, but it leads to curiosity of how things will go down in the new movie.

Toy Story 5, here we come!

(Information sourced from Rotten Tomatoes.)

Featured

AP Testing With No Resting

By: BHS News Staff

May 12, 2026

It is already mid-May, which means that the end of this school year is very close. However, no one has crossed the finish line yet, so do not stop now.

First off, AP testing will conclude this Thursday. Yesterday was AP Seminar, today is AP Psychology, and Thursday is AP Spanish. Best of luck to all who will be concluding their Advanced Placement classes.

Moving along, this past Thursday, the Concert Band had their final performance of the year with a thematic presence of America as it is about to celebrate its 250th anniversary in a little over 50 days. The night ended with a piece by Robert W. Smith titled, “The Great Locomotive Chase”.  This track is based on the attack of the Western and Atlantic Railroad during the Civil War. A big congratulations to all on a show well-done. 

Now, the bulk of this week’s news will be devoted to the Class of 2026.

Prom is next Friday, and with 125 students attending this year, it’s expected to be an exciting event at Windows on the River. Be ready to dress formally, take plenty of pictures, dance the night away, and create lifelong memories. At the conclusion of Prom will be Post Prom, so make sure to get plenty of rest the evening before because Fun ‘n’ Stuff is guaranteed to be an exciting yet exhausting adventure into the early morning hours.

Speaking of seniors, the annual Senior Sunset is coming up, too. This event will be held on May 27 and is hosted by the seniors’ parents. Students will have access to the football field and are invited to play games with their friends. Refreshments will be provided as well. This tradition allows seniors to enjoy time with their friends one last time before their names are called to receive their diplomas on Commencement Friday, May 29.

Here at The Return of the Eye, we would like to congratulate all graduating seniors, specifically our senior journalists. Next week, we will have a proper send-off for our senior writers.

Finally, here is the upcoming schedule for May.

  • May 18: Senior Awards Ceremony
  • May 22: Prom 
  • May 22-23: Post Prom 
  • May 27: Chromebook/Charger Return & Cap and Gown Pick-up
  • May 27: Senior Sunset
  • May 28: Graduation Practice
  • May 29: Graduation

Have a great week, Hurricane Nation.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Rocco Spiewacki

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 11, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Rocco Spiewacki. Rocco is funny, chill, and entertaining. He has been in Brooklyn since pre-school and works part-time at Culver’s. In his free time, he likes to golf and go to the gym. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in Business Management and eventually own his own restaurant. A fun fact about Rocco is that he has been concussed multiple times.

Q: What is one moment from high school that really stuck with you?

A: “My junior year in Chemistry class. It was a hard class, but there were lots of funny moments.”

Q: What is something you learned in high school that wasn’t taught in a classroom?

A: “How to develop a strong routine.”

Q: In what ways do you wish that you had done things differently in high school?

A: “I wish I focused less on what people thought about me.”

Q: What are you looking forward to the most at the end of the school year?

A: “Graduation so I don’t have to wake up every day at seven in the morning.”

Q: If you could meet anyone in the world right now, who would it be?

A: “It would be ‘Perfect Timing’ to meet Sheduer Sanders.”

Q: Would you rather never be able to play golf again or never be able to cook again?

A: “Never cook again. I can find a new career path.”

Q: If you and Mr. Holko participated in a cage match, would you make it out in one piece? 

A: “I got me winning all day!” 

{Editor’s Note: Rocco would lose quickly and painfully.}

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?  

A: “Mrs. Berg. She gave me valuable life advice.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Rocco. Good luck with owning your future restaurant, as well as the final weeks of your senior year.

Featured

Rapid Fire: Mrs. Armaro

*School Psychologist*

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

May 8, 2026

Q: Starbucks or 7brew?

A: “Starbucks.”

Q: Best advice for high school students?

A: “Make sure you’re completing all your work.”

Q: Stairs or elevator?

A: “Stairs.”

Q: Cold mornings or hot mornings?

A: “Warm mornings.”

Q: What is the best way to start your mornings?

A: “Getting a coffee.”

Q: What is your go-to pastime?

A: “Hanging out with my son.”

Q: What is your favorite type of weather?

A: “Fall weather.”

Q: Describe your style in one word.

A: “Comfortable.”

Q: What is your hidden talent?

A: “I don’t have one.” {Editor’s Note: Lame response.}

Q: What is one thing you wish that you enjoyed more?

A: “Staying up late.”

Have a wonderful May weekend, Brooklyn!

Featured

Young Bats Making An Impact

By: BHS Sports Staff 

May 7, 2026

The hometown Cleveland Guardians sit atop the AL Central with a record of 19-19. Yes, you read correctly that a .500 record is leading the American League Central Division.

Last season, the Guardians’ offense was the second-worst in Major League Baseball, and while they didn’t make any major free agent signings, their internal pieces have come alive to resurrect the offense. 

First, rookie sensation Chase DeLauter has sparked the top of the Guardians lineup and filled a major hole in the two-spot. In 32 games, DeLauter is hitting .308 with 6 homers and 23 RBIs. In the first three games of the season, DeLauter hit four home runs, becoming only the second player in MLB history to accomplish this feat. 

Cleveland has also heavily-relied on players who have been serviceable for a couple of years, Angel Martinez and Daniel Schneemann. Martinez, a switch hitter, is hitting .270 with 5 home runs and 16 RBIs. Schneemann has come up big, batting .284 with 4 home runs and 14 RBIs. On April 17, in a scoreless game against the Baltimore Orioles in the 7th inning, Schneemann smashed a go-ahead grand slam. Ironically, the Orioles scored six in the 8th inning to win the game. 

Another up-and-coming bat for the Tribe is top prospect and 2024 #1 overall pick, Travis Bazzana. Bazzana raked his way through Triple-A Columbus, hitting .287 with 2 bombs and 10 RBIs with a .933 OPS. He has shown great discipline at the plate and hard contact in the zone in 23 major league at bats. 

The other bats are still waiting to come around like Steven Kwan, Kyle Manzardo, and Bo Naylor. All-Star third baseman Jose Ramirez is also struggling a tad, too. A catching prospect to keep an eye on if Naylor can’t find his groove is Cooper Ingle, who is tearing it up in Triple-A Columbus. 

On the pitching side, the Guardians rotation has shown signs of promise with rookie Parker Messick leading the way with a 2.40 ERA and Gavin Williams having another nice season with a 3.28 ERA. The bullpen, which is supposed to be a strength, has struggled with a 4.16 ERA. 

The young bats have been the story to this point, but can the rest of the Cleveland lineup start hitting and make this offense consistently watchable? 

To stay updated with the Guards, click on the Cleveland Guardians website.

It’s going to be a great Summer for baseball, so come on down to the corner of Carnegie and Ontario to enjoy many ballgames. 

Go Tribe!

Here is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

  • May 7: Softball vs. Garrett Morgan – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
  • May 7: Baseball vs. Medina Christian Academy (5:00)
  • May 8: Baseball vs. Oberlin (5:00)
  • May 11: Softball @ Bedford (5:00)
  • May 12: Baseball @ Clearview (5:00)
  • May 12: Softball vs. Independence (4:30)
  • May 13: Baseball vs. Cleveland Heights – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
  • May 14: Baseball vs. Rhodes (4:30)

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Featured

The Mandalorian and Grogu

By: BHS Features Staff

May 6, 2026

First, the King of Pop. Now, the Galaxy.

Most people last Monday were greeting others with the common phrase, “May the Fourth be with you.” Therefore, is it safe to assume that many people are Star Wars fans? If you are, keep reading as a new adventure will be on the big screen in a little more than two weeks.

The new release of The Mandalorian and Grogu will bring you along for the ride and adventure that Din Djarin and his apprentice Grogu have by hunting down imperial remnants for the New Republic, attempting to stabilize the Galaxy. 

The Mandalorian is a Star Wars live-action series, and in the upcoming movie, Din Djarin and Grogu are the central duo. Following their journey as a Mandalorian bounty hunter and his Force-sensitive apprentice, the upcoming film depicts the pair tracking missions together, following the fall of the Empire. 

With this series being five years after the Return of the Jedi, there is a high likelihood of the new movie showing characters that are very well-known in the Star Wars franchise known as Luke Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, veteran warrior Bo-Katan Kryze, Boba Fett, and everyone’s favorite, R2-D2. 

If you are not familiar with the Mandalorian franchise, the entire series is available on Disney+ and Hulu, and it covers all three seasons, including any other Star Wars movies that you might be interested in. 

Want to learn more about this historic and epic franchise and how Din Djarin and Grogu join together to take down the imperial warlords? The Mandalorian and Grogu will be in theaters beginning on May 22.

Happy viewing! 

(Information sourced from Rotten Tomatoes.)

Featured

Teacher Appreciation Week

By: BHS News Staff

May 5, 2026

With May showers already apparent in the Brooklyn community, seniors are down to 13 maximum days until this chapter closes and the next one opens. The week of May 18, The Return of the Eye will highlight all eight senior journalists and send them off with a proper salute.

Now, onto this week’s news.

First, this week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and the BHS staff will be spoiled all week by receiving gifts, food, and letters of gratitude. Remember, we wouldn’t be here without them. Their guidance has led us to the end of the year, so please make it a point to give them some positive words throughout the week.

Regarding the Class of 2026, the annual senior awards ceremony will take place on Monday, May 18. Starting the event, the Honors inductions will be at 6:00 and will include inducting students into the National Art Honor Society, the National Spanish Honor Society, the National Chinese Honor Society, the National Honor Society, as well as the International Thespian Society. Then afterwards, the second part of the program will reveal the winners for all of the local scholarships, academic awards, and Honor/Merit Roll achievements.

Speaking of seniors, any seniors who do not have Mr. Holko for English IV can learn more about graduation requirements this Friday (May 8) by visiting his room (262) during periods 2, 3, and 5. Mr. Ross and Mrs. Bir will be highlighting important due dates and other important information. Please plan on attending one of these sessions.

Moving along, it is time to talk about prom since it will take place on Friday, May 22. Senior Class and Prom Advisor Mrs. Holko is excited about how prom is coming together.

“Leading the prom committee is fun to hear all the ideas, but it can be stressful trying to put all the ideas together. What’s unique about this prom experience is that participants will be going through the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, and appetizers will be served in the aquarium on the way to the ballroom.”

This year’s prom at Windows on the River sounds very exciting, and we cannot wait to be a part of it, building lifelong memories. A big thank you to Mrs. Holko and the group of senior prom committee members. 

Finally, here is the calendar for May.

  • May 4-8: Teacher Appreciation Week
  • May 7: Spring Concert
  • May 18: Senior Awards Ceremony
  • May 22: Prom 
  • May 22-23: Post Prom 
  • May 29: Graduation

Have an amazing first week of May, fellow Hurricanes. Enjoy the sunshine (hopefully).

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here.}

Featured

Senior Spotlight: Samadhi Holton

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 4, 2026

This week’s Senior Spotlight is Samadhi Holton. Samadhi is interesting, outgoing, and creative. She has been in Brooklyn for 12 years. In her free time, she likes to relax and eat. After graduation, she plans to attend Cuyahoga Community College for Veterinary Medicine and then attend Kent State University for Zoology. A fun fact about Samadhi is that she is double-jointed.

Q: How have your plans changed since the beginning of the year?

A: “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but now, I do. I knew I wanted to do something with animals, but I wasn’t set in stone on what exactly I wanted.”

Q: What made you decide to attend Tri-C and then Kent State University?

A: “I already have roughly half of my schooling done, and I can just stay at home for a little while before I go and live on campus.”

​Q: If you could retake any class, what would it be?

A: “Probably Spanish and take it more seriously.”

​Q: What has been your favorite senior activity so far?

A: “Participating in the Meet the Court assembly for Homecoming.”

​Q: What is your dream school?

A: “Ohio State University.”

​Q: What makes BHS different from other schools?

A: “It is very small and not crowded. You know everyone who goes here, and it is easy to talk to people and make new friends.”

​Q: If you were in charge of Prom, what theme would you pick?

A: “If I got to pick a theme for Prom, I would make it ‘Night in Rio’.”

​Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration and/or influence?  

A: “Mr. Holko. He pushes everyone to keep going and to not give up. He tells it how it is, and he doesn’t do any sugar-coating.”

​Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Samadhi. Good luck in your future career in Veterinary Medicine and Zoology.

Featured

Rapid Fire: Mr. Grigson

*ELA Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

May 1, 2026

Q: What is one scent that you love? 

A: “Vanilla.”

Q: Overhead lights or ambient lighting?

A: “Ambient.”

Q: Weirdest food you like?

A: “Raw Onions.”

Q: Would you rather be an insect or a rodent?

A: “Rodent, better chance to live.”

Q: Breakfast for dinner or dinner for breakfast?

A: “Breakfast for dinner.”

Q: What is one sport you wish that you could play professionally? 

A: “Baseball.”

Q: Would you rather be able to play an instrument or be able to sing well?

A: “Sing well.”

Q: Do you wish you could speak another language?

A: “Yes, Greek.”

Q: Are emotions or facts more important in an argument?

A: “Facts.”

Q: Do you wish Summer break was sooner this year?

A: “I think it’s at the right time.”

Have a wonderful first weekend of May, Brooklyn!

Create your own website, free on WordPress.com.Create your own website.
Start free