THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Spring Sports Recap

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 23, 2024

Just like that, the Spring sports season has concluded. In fact, all Hurricanes athletics are finished for the 2023-2024 school year, so let us look back at how baseball, softball, and track fared this season.

Baseball

First up is the baseball team, who finished with a record of 6-12. Some top performers for this season include senior leadoff hitter Jackson Diller, who hit .306 this season, was a very reliable pitcher, and had an amazing glove in the outfield. Another senior leader was Tyler Morgan, the switch hitter who batted .312 with 15 hits. Junior Aiden Starr led the team in hits (26), doubles (6), triples (3), and stolen bases (14). He also batted an whopping .520.

Head Coach Kevin Sedlacek is proud of how his team performed and how much they grew.

“I had a lot of questions about this team coming into the season, since most of the team played JV last season. But, the team grew into a varsity team this Spring. We competed against every team, but we did have some problems being consistent. Overall, we played better than I envisioned before the season started. Our highlight of the season was winning our home sectional game against Oberlin.”

Sedlacek is excited to see an experienced varsity team next season with Starr being the main piece of the squad. He will also be joined by Gio Garst, Collin Flanagan, Jadyn DeLuca, Phil Banaszak, and Zander Rolon.

Coach Sedlacek also left one final message for his seniors: “I also want to wish good luck to our departing seniors Jackson Diller, Miguel Veloz, Tyler Morgan, Aidan Westerhold, Steven Bartczak, and Diego Colton. They leave a legacy of competing, no matter the score or situation. They made Brooklyn proud.”

Nice job, boys!

Softball

Next up is the softball team. This season, they had some key returning players such as Aishah Madrea, Andrea Guzman, Audrena Vega, Abigail Cruz, and Delaney Burke. All of them contributed in their own way, whether pitching, hitting, or just overall leadership.

Head Coach and former Hurricane graduate Sarah Young is very happy with how much her team grew from last season to this season.

“A good majority of the team came back from last year, so we got to keep developing skills. I am very proud of how close knit the team is. We have a great environment and that is mostly due to my captains, Aishah Madera and Jessica Byrnes.”

The team was able to pick up three wins this season but was also very competitive in many other games.

Young is ready to keep this team growing and is looking forward to seeing more improvements into next season.

“Looking to next season, I will have nine seniors on my hands. We will be in our junior year of a team, and with that, we will have more chemistry. I am very excited for our pitchers Audrena Vega and Abi Cruz. Seeing the improvement they have already made makes me very excited to see what they will achieve next season. I am looking forward to having more underclassmen on the team as we will have two teams next season, a junior varsity and a varsity team. As always, I cannot wait to see my girls continuing to improve their skills and love the sport that I love so much.”

Keep working, girls!

Track

Last, but not least, is track. The track team saw some good performances out of Rajon Foster and Jamira Tate, as they won the team MVP awards and were the top members on the team for sprints and relays. Foster also qualified for the district final in the 100-meter dash. Two members, Jarianny Dominguez and Jaylen King, received the team captain award for their continued leadership throughout the year.

Head Coach Kyle Akins is happy with how his young team performed this season.

“We were an extremely young team that did not have a single senior this season. There was a lot of growth from our underclassmen this season, and I hope to see that continue next year.”

Every team member who participated in meets scored at least a half point during the course of the season. Also, every team member set a personal best in at least one event, too.

Well done, track team!

A special thank you to all the Spring sports athletes, coaches, and assistants who made this season one not to forget. We are most definitely looking forward to next season for all Hurricanes sports.

Remember athletes, you get better in the Summer, so put the work in.

Go Canes!

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

We Celebrate Memorial Day

By: BHS Features Staff

May 22, 2024

Memorial Day is a federal holiday that is celebrated on the last Monday of May. It is America’s annual remembrance to honor and mourn the fallen men and women who have served in the U.S. military.

Memorial Day was not always called Memorial Day; it was originally known as Decoration Day. On May 5, 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), which was a politically-powerful organization of Union veterans, was led by Major General John A. Logan. He issued an order known as the “Memorial Day Act”. This act established “Memorial Day” as Decoration Day, a day for the United States to remember those who have passed in the line of duty and to decorate their graves with flowers.

The GAR placed an order for Memorial Day to be held on May 30 to ensure the availability of “the choicest flowers of Springtime” all over the country.

As years went on, Decoration Day fizzled out and became known as Memorial Day. It continued into the late nineteenth and early twentieth century as a Patriotic holiday. After World War I, Memorial Day was expanded to honor those who have passed away in the line of duty in any American War.

In 1966, the U.S. government officially recognized Memorial Day events being held on May 30 in Waterloo, New York. So, the federal government declared it as the birthplace of Memorial Day. The Union Monday Holiday Act then moved the national holiday from the 30th of May to the last Monday in May.

This upcoming Monday, we celebrate Memorial Day to pay homage to the selfless soldiers who died for us and for our many freedoms. It is not just a day to grill, swim, or congregate with family and friends. While those activities are all good, take some time to reflect and say thank you to those who willingly sacrificed their lives for ours. Wave your American flags proudly.

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

{Information for this article was retrieved from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.}

Prom & More

By: BHS News Staff

May 21, 2024

It is hard to believe that there are less than two weeks left in this school year. While we are all anticipating Summer freedom, there are some items to recap and preview. So, let us get right to it.

Over the weekend, students enjoyed Prom at Windows on the River. It was a major success this year with 145 students in attendance. The theme of this year’s prom was “Secret Garden,” and the weather cooperated very well, so students were able to take outside pictures, rain-free.

During the night of fun, food, and dancing, Brooklyn crowned this year’s King and Queen. Congratulations to Zachary Messeri and Desiree Gailes (pictured below).

Once 10:00 p.m. rolled around, Prom came to end with the traditional senior circle; however, lifelong memories were built for all.

A big shout out to Mrs. Jackie Holko (Senior Class Advisor) for organizing such a wonderful evening. Her tireless efforts do not go unnoticed. Thank you, Mrs. Holko!

In addition to Prom, another exciting event coming up is the Honor/Merit Roll field trip tomorrow (May 22). Grades 8 and 9 will go to the stadium from 8:00-11:00, and grades 10, 11, and 12 will go from 11:30-2:30. Students and teachers will walk to the stadium for field day-themed fun and lunch.

Please make sure to turn in your signed permission slips to Mrs. Bader no later than today. You cannot attend if your final forms are not completed.

Finally, this serves as a reminder that finals are coming up next week. If you have a class that does not have a final and you have checked in with your teacher, you do not have to come in for that class. It is not an open campus, so you cannot leave and come back, but you can come in late or leave early, depending on your schedule. Below is the schedule for next week.

*Tuesday – May 28

Skinny Day

*Wednesday – May 29

Exam Review

2B: Exam

I.C.E. Block

3B: Exam

4B: Exam (first skinny)

*Thursday – May 30

Exam Review

2G: Exam

I.C.E. Block

3G: Exam

4G: Exam (second skinny)

*Friday – May 31

1B: Exam

1G: Exam

I.C.E. Block

Make-up Exam Period

Don’t forget, Monday is Memorial Day. Honor those who served for the freedom that we have today, and never forget their sacrifices.

Have a terrific week, Hurricane Nation!

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

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Godinsky

*Secretary of Support Services*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 17, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Shari Godinsky. This is currently her fourth year in the Brooklyn City School District. Previously, she was a director for corporate events, she did a lot of traveling, and she worked in other school districts in a variety of roles. In her free time, she likes to be with her family, her grandkids, her kids, and her animals. A fun fact about her is that she likes to have fun, is a little bit of a jokester, and loves to make people laugh.

Q: Out of all the roles Brooklyn has to offer, why did you choose this one?

A: “It was very similar to what I had experience in, a wide variety of different things. I don’t do the same thing every day. I work with so many different people, so I was able to get to know everybody in Brooklyn.”

Q: What are the challenges that you face throughout the day?

A: “There are challenges everyday because working in the Building and Grounds Department, there is a lot to cover as well as around the building and in the building, in addition to some of the staffing issues.”

Q: What makes a good day at work?

A: “When everything runs smoothly or if you do have a conflict and it all gets worked out.”

Q: If you could pass on any words of advice to the students at Brooklyn, what would you share?

A: “Never give up on your dream; go for it!”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “I guess I do not really have one; I am pretty easy going. There is not a whole lot that bothers me. I just roll with everything.”

Q: Is there a quote or saying that you live by?

A: “I guess I would say, ‘Just get it done.’ No matter what we are faced with in the department, I am in, and we all have to get it done. There is no second choice. We just have to get it done.”

Q: If you could choose only one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: “Probably lunch because it is in the middle of the day.”

Q: If you could choose a superpower, what would you pick?

A: “I would probably just make everyday a good day: No drama!”

Thank you for letting us interview you, Mrs. Godinsky. Enjoy the Summer ahead with your family.

Hurricanes Storm The Phoenix

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 16, 2024

Brooklyn Hurricanes - Official Athletic Website – Brooklyn, OH

It was a perfect day for playoff baseball on Monday, as the Hurricanes played their sectional semi-final game against the Oberlin Phoenix. This was a win-or-go-home game for both teams. Brooklyn came into the contest with a 5-11 record after a huge senior night victory against Rhodes.

In the top of the first, the Phoenix got a few singles and a sacrifice fly to get on the board. They would score two more off of a throwdown to third base that went into left field, and just like that Oberlin was up, 3-0. The next batter for the Phoenix hit a towering blast over the left field fence to extend their early lead, 4-0.

The Hurricanes got a runner into scoring position in the bottom half of the inning but could not convert.

The second inning was nothing like the first, as both teams went down quickly and easily.

In the third inning, the visitors scored another run on a wild pitch to make it a 5-0 ball game. The Hurricanes were in desperate need for some offense and finally got on the scoreboard when senior Jackson Diller hit a ball off of the fence in left-center and scored when the centerfielder made an error.

After three, Oberlin led 5-1.

Diller pitched a clean fourth inning and finished his outing giving up four earned runs, walking four, and striking out six batters. The Canes scored again in the bottom of the fourth when the left fielder dropped a towering fly ball by junior Collin Flanagan, allowing junior Jadyn DeLuca to score. The deficit was now down to three, 5-2.

In the fifth, junior Aiden Starr came on for relief and had a 1-2-3 inning. The bottom of the fifth began the onslaught of runs for the Hurricanes.

Diller led off the inning with a double and scored on an RBI single by Starr, and he advanced to third on an error. He scored on an RBI single by freshman Gio Garst. Garst stole second, and senior Miguel Veloz tied the game with an RBI double. After a DeLuca walk, Flanagan ripped an RBI single to give the Hurricanes a 6-5 lead. Senior Aidan Westerhold grounded out to score an run, and Flanagan later scored on a wild pitch to make it 8-5.

The scoring was not over as senior Steven Bartczak and Diller both walked, and Bartczak later scored on an RBI single by senior Tyler Morgan. With Diller advancing to third, he scored on a wild pitch. Garst and Starr walked and Veloz got his second hit of the inning, a two-run single to make it a 10-run fifth inning. The Hurricanes tacked on one more when Garst scored on a bad pickoff attempt.

Starr came back to pitch the sixth, but the Phoenix started to come back as they plated four runs off a two-run single and a couple of defensive mistakes. The Canes went down in the bottom half and were now three outs away from sealing the victory.

The Phoenix started something in the seventh after a leadoff single and a strikeout and an error. Oberlin hit double digits with an RBI double with the tying run coming to the plate. After a pop out, they scored on a passed ball to make it 13-11. Starr then shut down the last batter. Victory complete!

Final Score: Brooklyn 13, Oberlin 11

Great team win, fellas!

{Updated} Unfortunately last night, the Hurricanes’ season ended with a 10-0 loss to #2 Norwayne. However, it was a pretty good season for the boys as they rallied and finished strong.

All of the Spring sports’ seasons have come to an end, so stay tuned for a Spring Sports Recap.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Natalie Nieves

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 15, 2024

Chosen for this year’s final senior spotlight is Natalie Nieves. Natalie is outgoing, energetic, and passionate. She spends her free time playing basketball, shopping, and working.

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “I plan on going to Cuyahoga Community College.”

Q: What is the most important quality in a friendship?

A: “The most important quality in a friendship is honesty.”

Q: What could we do better to help future high schoolers feel more connected and invested?

A: “Helping them when they are stuck on what to do next in life.”

Q: What skills do you wish to acquire after high school?

A: “Skills I wish to acquire are being able to ask for help and to not get frustrated by setbacks.”

Q: What would be your last meal?

A: “Chicken wings because this is my favorite food to eat.”

Q: What kind of impact do you hope to make in your future field?

A: “Being able to help people when no one else can.”

Q: What grade do you find to be the most difficult?

A: “Freshmen year because it was the start of high school and a brand new learning experience.”

Q: How do you handle academic stress and pressure?

A: “I ask my friends for advice to see their point of view on things to help me alleviate my stress.”

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

A: “Mrs. Marsico because she helped me when I wasn’t doing the best in school.”

Natalie, we hope that you achieve everything that you have dreamed of in the next chapter of your life. Good luck at Tri-C and beyond.

Farewell Senior Journalists

By: BHS News Staff

May 14, 2024

As the 2023-2024 school year comes to an end, we would like to thank all of our senior journalists for their tireless efforts to provide content for our loyal subscribers.

Four years of memories with academics, athletics, awards, and multiple other extracurricular activities, these seven seniors have left their mark at Brooklyn High School. They will be remembered for being well-rounded and just overall good people. Strong personalities with a touch of humor, this class will be missed.

As they type their final article, let us hear from them as they are set to receive their diplomas and will soon-become Hurricane alumni.

Senior #1: Angelina Colon

*Favorite BHS Memory: “One of my favorite memories at BHS was when I was told that I no longer needed my IEP.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “The best advice I can give the seniors next year is to try your hardest and try to keep your grades up because they are important.”

*Plans after Graduation: “I plan on going to The University of Toledo and majoring in Nursing or Psychology.”

Senior #2: Alaura Darden

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Take everything step-by-step and finish strong!”

*Plans after Graduation: “I am planning on going to Ursuline College to major in Nursing with a minor in Women’s Studies.”

Senior #3: Rebecca Fagiani

*Favorite BHS Memory: “Being part of the school musical for the past six years was awesome and just my senior year, overall.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Don’t let your time in high school go to waste. Make the most of all of it.”

*Plans after Graduation: “I will be attending Baldwin Wallace University for a major in Sociology and a minor in International Studies.”

Senior #4: Isabella Hinkle

*Favorite BHS Memory: “My favorite memory would have to be all of homecoming week. Between the football game, senior breakfast, and homecoming activities, I loved making core memories with the kids I grew up with one last time.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Make the most out of high school, get involved, make memories, and cherish it. It goes by too quickly.”

*Plans after Graduation: “Attending The Ohio State University to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and then attend Medical School to earn my Master’s to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.”

Senior #5: Chloe Pawul

*Favorite BHS Memory: “I would have to say my entire senior year. For the majority of my class, we have been together since elementary school, and spending our last year together and doing a bunch of activities together inside and outside of school was bitter sweet.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Your senior year flies by; it’s not just some corny thing that people say. It is true! Cherish your last year with the kids you grew up with. And most importantly, have a better senior prank than we did!”

*Plans after Graduation: “Attend Cleveland State University to major in Psychology and then continue my education to become a Psychiatrist.”

Senior #6: Chloe Rojak

*Favorite BHS Memory: “My favorite memory has to be cheer. Even though I don’t cheer anymore, it was still a big part of my life.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Do your work when it’s given to you! It’s so much easier to manage. You might not want to do it; maybe you feel lazy or tired, but in the end, it’s worth it.”

*Plans after Graduation: “My plans are to attend Brown Aveda Institute, which is a Cosmetology school. After two years, I plan to go back to college for a Business degree so I can further my education and possibly open my own salon.”

Senior #7: Jordan Wilcox

*Favorite BHS Memory: “The time I got $50 for setting off fireworks in the bathroom.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2025): “Don’t try to be something you’re not for someone else.”

*Plans after Graduation: “Getting into an Ironworkers apprenticeship.”

We hope each of you goes on to accomplish amazing things in life. No matter what your plans are, remember to reach for the stars. The future is yours, so make sure you work hard, accomplish what you want to, and be confident in yourself. Never get in your own way when it comes to personal happiness and success.

So one last time, thank you for being terrific writers, great leaders, and most importantly, better people.

You have made Brooklyn proud! #Canesforlife

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. DiNunzio

*Intervention Specialist*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 10, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Stacie DiNunzio. She has been an intervention specialist in Brooklyn for 22 years. Previous to working here, she taught in Strongsville and was also a long-term substitute teacher. In her free time, she is a mom of three kids, who are actively-involved in dance and sports. A fun fact about Mrs. DiNunzio is that she loves to travel.

Q: What is one thing that keeps you motivated throughout the school day?

A: “Seeing the smile on the kids’ faces when they get something and feel like they have had success is what keeps me going. It also makes me proud to see their accomplishments.”

Q: How do you deal with a stressful situation?

A: “Take a deep breath and walk away for a bit to try to regroup. Then, return to the situation.”

Q: If you could have any school pet, what would it be?

A: “I would love to have a dog, but I do not know if it would be appropriate for school.”

Q: In your opinion, how supportive is the Brooklyn City School District?

A: “As a whole, I think they are very supportive. My colleagues are my go-to in any situation and offer great advice. The administrators are always there when things get hard and situations arrive; they are always willing to talk to you and help you out.”

Q: Describe yourself only using three words.

A: “Dedicated, Caring, Patient.”

Q: What is your favorite type of music to listen to?

A: “Country.”

Q: Are you considered an indoors or outdoors type of person?

A: “Outdoors.”

Q: How do you plan on spending your Summer?

A: “Taking a trip to Las Vegas with my daughters to watch them dance, watching many baseball games, and planning for my daughter’s graduation party.”

Thank you for letting us interview you. It was a pleasure getting to know more about you. Have a great Summer and a wonderful trip to Las Vegas!

Wolves Blank the Hurricanes

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 9, 2024

Last Monday, the Hurricanes baseball team hosted their CVC rival, the Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves. The visitors came in at 2-13, while the hosts sported a 4-9 clip. This seemed to be a very winnable game, but the Hurricanes bats could not find any rhythm in this contest.

In the first inning, the Red Wolves got on the board with an RBI single. In the bottom half, Brooklyn went down without scoring, trailing 1-0.

The second inning went by quickly as neither team scored.

In the third inning, the Red Wolves added two more runs off of a two-run single and another run off of an RBI single up the middle. The Hurricanes still could not pull anything out in the third as the bats remained silent. Where was Jobu to wake up the bats?

Cuyahoga Heights added another run in the fourth off of a couple of errors to make it 5-0. In the bottom of the fifth, senior Jackson Diller got into scoring position after a single and stole two bases to put himself 90-feet away to get Brooklyn on the board. Unfortunately, nobody could bring him in, and the Hurricanes were held scoreless yet again.

Diller pitched a scoreless sixth to finish off his outing, pitching six innings, giving up four hits, two earned runs, and striking out five. Senior Steven Bartczak pitched a scoreless seventh, allowing just one walk.

The Hurricanes went down in the bottom of the seventh, and for the first time in this season, the Hurricanes were blanked.

Final Score: Cuyahoga Heights 5, Brooklyn 0

The Hurricanes managed just three hits in this game from Diller, senior Miguel Veloz, and freshman Gio Garst.

The regular season concludes tomorrow for Senior Night against Glenville with the first pitch scheduled for 4:30. Then on Monday, they play their OHSAA first-round playoff matchup against the Oberlin Phoenix at home.

Finally, the softball team will take on Garrett Morgan tomorrow at 4:30 and will conclude their season on Saturday morning against Mansfield Christian.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Franklin Beavers

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 8, 2024

Chosen for this week’s second senior spotlight is Franklin Beavers. Franklin is helpful, kind, and ambitious. His hobbies are often working out to increase his physique, reading comic books, watching anime, and playing video games. He plans to attend Cuyahoga Community College and then transfer to Cleveland State University to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering. He wants to become a Computer Technician after he earns his degree.

Q: What is a core memory you have from Brooklyn?

A: “A core memory I’ve had and will always cherish is meeting this beautiful woman named Alyssa Collier. She was the first girl who made me feel love and hope, and she truly made me feel special and saw me for me. She’s the reason I’m smiling again and will always keep a smile on my face.”

Q: If you could meet the cast of any movie, who would it be?

A: “If I could meet anyone, I would probably meet Tobey Magurie, who famously played the most accurate Spiderman. He played a role who suffered from bullying and humiliation throughout his school life, being seen as different from everyone else.”

Q: How do you deal with stress?

A: “I often tend to think of stress as an obstacle to overcome. I simply meditate or do yoga to deal with stress. And if that doesn’t work, I use my punching bag to take my stress out because it shows a way of releasing all the tension.”

Q: What is one piece of advice that you have for the incoming freshman?

A: “Don’t try to act cool to gain attention. Always be yourself and respect the staff and teachers and keep up with the assignments because believe me, hard work and respect will give you a great reward in the end.”

Q: What subject throughout both high school and middle school was the most significant to you?

A: “The subject that was most significant to me is probably my math grade because back then, I struggled with math a lot and could never get higher than a C-. In the end with enough tutoring, I started getting better grades and earning A’s and B’s.”

Q: What is your favorite meal from your favorite fast food restaurant?

A: “My favorite food is a Quarter Pounder Deluxe from McDonald’s.”

Q: What is one thing you regret doing in high school?

A: “One thing I regret is saying inappropriate things to my other classmates. Because of my actions, I ended up losing people and was seen as a bully.”

Q: Who has been your closest friend in high school, and how has this relationship impacted you?

A: “The two closest friends I’ve actually had are Kaysar Mohammaed and Pakovon So-By. They’ve been my best friends since elementary school, and we all share the same hobbies such as comics, anime, video games, and more. They’re the only friends I communicate with more than anyone else, and without them, I couldn’t have found better best friends than them.”

Q: What does high school mean to you?

A: “High school is more than just a school to me. It’s like a home, a place where you can evolve and become something more than just a student. It is a place where nobody can become somebody.”

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

A: “The number one teacher who has been the biggest inspiration in my life is Mr. Jones. He is one of the nicest teachers who always believed in me. He was always there for me when I was down on my luck. Mr. Jones is one of the main reasons why I’m getting better and better at math. In the end, I look up to him as a mentor and a great example of what it means to be a splendid teacher.”

Thank you for your time, Franklin. We wish the best for you with your plans at Cuyahoga Community College and Cleveland State University. Dream big, and become who you want to become!

Senior Spotlight: Annabell Giguere

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 8, 2024

Chosen for this week’s first senior spotlight is Annabell Giguere. Annabell is energetic, caring, and optimistic. She has been working at Penn Station for two years, but when she is not working, she participates in competitive dancing. She has also been a part of the Drama Club for five years, Show Choir for six years, and Hurricettes for four years.

Q: Is there a cause or social issue that you would like to work on or contribute to in the future?

A: “Donating clothes to the homeless, along with food, is important.”

Q: Would you consider moving to another city or country for a lifetime opportunity?

A: “Yes, I would like to move to New York for theater opportunities.”

Q: Have you considered any internships?

A: “Yes, I have internships at a salon and a dance studio.”

Q: What was the most important lesson you learned outside of the classroom?

A: “I learned outside of class to stay where you are, so you don’t miss out on life.”

Q: What was your proudest moment of personal growth during high school?

A: “My proudest moment was becoming a part of the National Technical Honor Society.”

Q: What is your idea of a perfect vacation?

A: “My perfect vacation is going on a cruise and to a beach with people you enjoy being with and having the time of your life.”

Q: Have you discovered any new passions during high school?

A: “Theater! I love being a part of it.”

Q: In what ways has high school helped you discover your own voice and viewpoints?

A: “Standing up for who I am and realizing that friends can turn on me and use me brought me to realize my true worth as a person.”

Q: What accomplishment are you celebrating the most as you graduate?

A: “My accomplishment is improving my grades from eighth grade to senior year.”

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

A: “Mr. Karl because he helped me to stay on top of school and helped me manage my time. He was easy to ask for help and to talk to. He was always willing to help me with math, too.”

Thank you Annabell for taking the time to answer our questions. Best wishes to you and your future at Cleveland State University and beyond. Keep dancing!

Off to Finland

By: BHS News Staff

May 7, 2024

Imagine being given the opportunity to travel to a country that, year-in and year-out, leads the world in educational practices. Well, this journey will take place this Summer for one of our elementary teachers, Mrs. Sue Grodek.

In 2022, Finland was ranked number one for its academic achievements by the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report for Education. Knowing the differences between their education system and our country’s, Mrs. Grodek was one of the few selected by Fulbright-Hays to travel to the gorgeous country of Finland and to take in her own insights as an educator.

How exactly did she come across this opportunity?

“The program is called Fulbright-Hays Travel Abroad Seminar for elementary teachers, and I am going with a group of 16 other educators. I found out about this opportunity through another teacher and was encouraged to apply and be accepted. I will be there for four weeks in nine different locations,” stated an excited Mrs. Grodek.

For some background, Finland is the Northernmost country in Europe that borders Sweden, and it is the most-densely forested country in its region. Its capital is the beautiful city of Helsinki, which is surrounded by the Baltic Sea. It is located so far North that you can experience 24-hours of full daylight. Also, it is considered the best spot to view the famous Northern Lights. For more information on Finland, visit National Geographic Kids.

Knowing that her trip is booked, what is she most excited about?

“Getting to go inside of the Arctic Circle and experiencing 24-hour daylight!”

Being a part of this journey is an exciting and informative experience. Mrs. Grodek has taught in Brooklyn for the majority of her teaching career and raised her children in the community. She is currently in her fifth year teaching second grade.

Here in Brooklyn, we have a very diverse community and with a focus on inclusion, it is important to learn about different cultures and values, and Mrs. Grodek is truly looking forward to this Summer excursion.

According to Mrs. Grodek, “The focus of the whole program is to learn about a different culture and educational system, and to formulate a greater understanding of the cultures of Brooklyn School and Brooklyn High School, I want to advocate for those who live in Brooklyn and to celebrate their diversity. I will be able to meet with educators and leaders in Finland for a new perspective and be able to apply it to students in our community.”

We, the News Staff, would like to thank Mrs. Grodek for taking the time to share this opportunity with us and her experience throughout her educational career. Full transparency, we are a little jealous because we want to go to Finland with her, but we will anxiously await to hear about her journey and experiences upon arrival back home.

As always, here is your calendar for the last few weeks of school.

May 10: Post Prom Waivers Due
May 14: Final Day for Seniors
May 17: Community Service Day / Prom at Windows on the River
May 24: Graduation (6:00)
May 27: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 31: Last Day for Students

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