THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Senior Spotlight: Madison Orlosky

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

November 29, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Madison Orlosky. Madison is cheerful, kind, and inspiring. She keeps herself busy with a lot of extracurricular activities such as playing volleyball along with football and basketball cheerleading. She also works at Sheetz.

Q: Do you think high school has prepared you for the real world?

A: “I believe school did not prepare me for the real world because I really do not see myself doing logarithms in the future, but the teachers definitely prepared me.”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “My plans after high school are to go to college for four years and then go to medical school to become a surgeon.”

Q: Finish this sentence: I could not live without…?

A: “I could not live without my mother. She is the person who guides me through my life.”

Q: What is one memory that you will always remember from your high school years?

A: “One memory I will always have from high school is when the girls basketball team beat Independence in last year’s playoff game at our gym.”

Q: What is an obstacle that you have to overcome?

A: “One obstacle I have to overcome would be procrastination. I am not completely over it, but I have gotten a lot better.”

Q: What is your biggest regret in life?

A: “My biggest regret would be not starting volleyball younger. I wish I had more time to play and more time to improve.”

Q: If you could move anywhere in the world, where would you move to?

A: “I would move to Bora Bora because the water is so clear and the houses are on stilts over the water, so you can see the fish through the floor.”

Q: What is the hardest decision that you have ever made?

A: “The hardest decision I’ve made would be quitting my old job at AMC Theaters. I made a lot of friends and had a great experience working there. They just did not pay enough.”

Q: What is your favorite childhood memory?

A: “My favorite childhood memory is all the Summers at my old house. My cousins would come over everyday because my mom watched them, and we would swim in my pool all day long.”

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

A: “Mrs. Sullivan has been the biggest influence to me because she gives the best advice. I can come to her about anything, and she will give me honest feedback on the issue. I wouldn’t want anyone else as my English teacher all four years of high school.”

Thank you, Madison! Have a wonderful senior year as we wish you the best now and beyond.

Turkey Break Return

By: BHS News Staff

November 28, 2023

Welcome back, Brooklyn. We hope that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving break and enjoyed the time with your loved ones.

As the end of the second quarter is quickly approaching, be sure to stay on top of your grades because December 15 will be here sooner than later.

So, what is happening between now and December 15?

First off, the main cast for the Drama Club’s production of The Little Mermaid is here! Congratulations to those who made the cut below:

Student Director – Rebecca Fagiani
Dance Captains – Annabell Giguere and Grace Paul
Ariel – Amber Rice
Pilot – Jaxson Blazy
Prince Eric – Gaven McCanelley
Grimsby – Jayden Spiva
Flounder – Analise Gonzalez
Scuttle – Rebecca Fagiani
Windward – Gracie Beane
Leeward – Kyra Betancourt
King Triton – Nasan Bruce
Sebastian – Alex Collazo-Martinez
Aquata – Janiyah Coleman
Andrina – Grace Paul
Aristia – Juliana Lottig
Atina – Morgan Cummings
Adella – Alexus Leighliter
Allana – Annabell Giguere
Flotsam – Gracie White
Jetsam – Kebeh Dolo
Ursula – Desiree Gailes
Chef Louis – Austin Adkins

Make sure to see these performers and the student ensemble in March as they put on a spectacular performance of this Disney classic.

Secondly, there will be an Esports meeting on December 4 from 3:15-4:45 in the high school cafeteria. Remember, sign-ups for the Esports tournament are due by December 8.

Ready to hoop? If you are in grades 8-12 and are interested in playing in the Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game on December 15, make sure to look for sign-up information in your grade-level Google Classroom. To participate, you will trade in Live School points for raffle tickets to win a student team spot. Ten winners will officially be announced on December 6. For any questions, see Mrs. Bader.

Next, End-of-Course Exam make-ups begin today and will be held throughout the month of December. If you have any questions regarding test dates, times, and locations, please see Mr. Ross or Mrs. Bir.

Finally, midterms will be held on December 13-14. Make sure that you are prepared and on track to end the second quarter in fine fashion.

Per usual, here is the calendar of events:

November 29: Internet Safety Presentation
December 2: SAT Testing
December 4: Esports Meeting
December 11: NBA 2K24 Tournament
December 13-14: Midterms
December 15: Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game
December 18-January 2: Winter Break

Make sure to bundle up and stay warm this week!

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

A Grateful Time of Year

By: The Return of the Eye’s Staff

November 21, 2023

This time of year forces us to slow down and to reflect on the blessings that we have. Simply, we have a lot to be grateful for, not just for Thanksgiving.

As we get set to celebrate Thanksgiving this Thursday with family and friends, The Return of the Eye’s staff would like to share our blessings.

We recognize that families are dealing with a lot and that Thanksgiving may be emotional for some. We also recognize that even though we have our own struggles, too, there is always someone who has it worse. We want to be thankful and positive and to be a light for those who are in the dark.

What we are thankful for:

*Alaura: “I am thankful for all the opportunities I’ve been given and my mother’s support. Since it is senior year, more of my hard work has been paying off, and the goals for myself are being made. This could not be done without the support from my mom. She has guided me through my high school years with the most support anyone could ask for. Without encouragement from her, I don’t think I would have been as successful as I am now. Thank you, MOM!”

*Rebecca: “In my life, there are numerous things I can say I am greatly thankful for. Some of the main things include my parents, my family and friends, the opportunity to travel, and all the memories and new experiences I got with traveling. I am also very thankful for all the teachers who have helped me with my college applications throughout this year and have given me all the advice they can. During this upcoming holiday season, don’t forget to thank your loved ones for everything they have done for you.”

*Jayla: “This year, I am incredibly thankful for my friends. Since the beginning of the year, I have held onto the people who continue to lift me up and help me celebrate my many wins over this year. As we get older and drift apart, I am grateful for the people who decided to grow with me. My friends have forced me out of my comfort zone, helped me up when I’m down, brought me down to reality, and most importantly, made me happy. I’m thankful that they are in this chapter of my life, and I couldn’t ask for better people to surround myself with.”

*Jacob: “I am thankful to be surrounded by great friends in a great community. I have made great memories with my friends, and I am very thankful to have that. I am also thankful for my family because they took care of me my whole life, and I am super grateful for that. Without them helping me my entire life, I don’t know where I would be. I am also thankful for the teachers who have encouraged and helped me over the years. Lastly, I am thankful that I get to go to a lot of sporting events and make a lot of new memories there.”

*Jordan: “I’m thankful for all the people who I’ve gotten close with. I got them and my family, and without them, life wouldn’t be so easy to deal with. My grandparents are great, and my brothers and sister are the ones who I need to set an example for. I’m also thankful for my job because I need all the money I can get.”

*Kayla: “I am thankful for my family and my friends. I am thankful for the memories I have made with them and how they have helped me through multiple situations. My mom has been very supportive of all my decisions, and she has made me the person I am today. Overall, my family has supported me throughout my whole life, and I’m very thankful for that.”

*Olivia: “I’m thankful for my family and all of the memories I have with them. I’m also thankful for my friends group and all of the fun times I have had with them. My friends have been there for me throughout most of my life, especially the ones I have met through soccer. My family above all has been there for me my whole life and have been very supportive.”

*Summer: “I could honestly say a ton, but I am keeping it all to a minimum as best I can. Above all, what I am tremendously thankful for is being able to be myself; being accepted into this community is one of the things I love most. All of the memories I have made with some of the people here and the friends I have made along the way, a huge thank you goes out to you. A big thank you to my family for being very supportive of the choices I make as I slowly approach the beginning of adult life. I am also thankful for this community for being so accepting and supportive. I am thankful for the teachers who have helped me get to the point I am now. Whether they realize it or not, they have helped a ton. Being able to be a part of something, whether it is big or small, I am always thankful for that over the years. There is also my best friend I want to mention. From middle school until now, she has been there every step of the way. She has helped me so much and continues to do so. She is also very supportive. I always try my best to give back what she gives me because she deserves that. She has made me feel loved in more ways than one. She has been there for me no matter what, and that is something I will continue to be thankful for, no matter what happens. To sum it all up, she is the best person I have in my life today; I wouldn’t trade her for anyone. There is so much I can say about her, but again, I am trying my best to keep this at a minimum. As the holiday season is fast approaching, do not forget to thank those in your life who have done things for you. I also want to add a little side note: This class has also helped me in more ways than I can say, and Mr. Holko just adds a little joy to that, so thank you.”

*Caydin: “I am very thankful for many things, but one of the big things I’m thankful for is my family because my family is full of hardworking individuals who only want what’s best for their family. A prime example of someone who does this is my mother; she works hard at her job to make sure her kids are happy with where they are and what they have. I do my best to make sure she is happy as well and that she knows her hard work isn’t going unnoticed.”

*Liliana: “I am very thankful for a lot of people in my life, especially my mom because she raised me and put up with me for 14 years. My mom was always there to listen to my problems when I needed to rant to someone about something. My mom also always puts a smile on my face and knows how to make me laugh. Another person I am really thankful for is my cousin because she has always believed in me and helped me with so much of my anxiety. Whenever I’m having problems, I feel like she is one of the only people I can actually open up to.”

*Angelina: “I am immensely thankful for the family and friends that have been there at my lowest point in life and have seen me grow up tremendously. I am also thankful for Mrs. Velez because she has helped me become a better person and has seen me grow from someone with depression to someone who has gotten out of that monster’s hold and become a better and happier person. My mother is the main person I am thankful for because she has raised me to be a humble person and to care for others, no matter what they are going through. She is the best mother in my opinion and has always been there for me, no matter what. She always taught me that she and I are against the world, and we will always have each other. My mother and family have seen me at my lowest and have been by my side, no matter what the situation is. They will drop everything to make sure that everyone is okay. My friends have seen me when I was at my weakest point, and we have been by each other, no matter where we are. If we need each other, we are there. I am thankful for what the universe has provided for me, with a good family and friends that I wouldn’t trade for the world.”

*Chloe P: “I am extremely thankful for many things in my life. One of the things that I am most thankful for is my family. My family has always been there for me and showed me support. I am especially thankful for my parents. They have watched me grow and have provided for me my entire life. Another thing I am thankful for is my friends who have stuck by my side and helped me through so many things.”

*Isabella: “I’m very thankful for a lot of things in my life such as my friends, who have always been there for me and the memories I’ve created with them. The opportunity to travel and explore the world was great, and my family has provided me with so much in my life.”

*Chloe R: “I’m thankful for numerous things in my life. I’m very thankful for my nephews; they always manage to put a smile on my face. Another thing I am grateful for is my mom. She has been through a lot in the past couple of years. I just want to thank her for everything she has done for our family.”

We would like to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving! Please remember this very important tip: DO NOT DEEP FRY A TURKEY IN YOUR GARAGE! 🦃🔥🚒

Staff Spotlight: Ms. Bencivenni

*Counselor*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

November 17, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Ms. Hannah Bencivenni. This is currently Ms. Bencivenni’s third year in Brooklyn. Before she came here, she went straight from college to graduate school. A couple of things she likes to do in her free time are taking different workout classes, spending time with her family, and teaching Pilates classes on the weekends and sometimes after school. A fun fact about Ms. Bencivenni is that she visited the great state of Alaska.

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

A: “I’m not much of an animal person so maybe a goldfish or a fish tank.”

Q: What are some of the goals you have for this school year?

A: “I want to make an impact on the kids who I’m working with and hope they know that counselors are always safe to go to in a time of need; the counselors are professionals they can reach out and talk to.”

Q: What is the experience of being a counselor like?

A: “A counselor wears a lot of different hats throughout the day. You have to be flexible to do many different things. Whether it is working individually with kids, going to meetings, working with the administrators and different teachers, also collaborating with outside agencies and resources, and working with parents. That is what is most important.”

Q: If you were not a counselor, what career would you have instead?

A: “The only thing I thought about was to be a Speech Pathologist.”

Q: What are you most thankful for?

A: “I am thankful for my family. My sister had a baby a year and a half ago. So now, I have my niece and then my nephew who is on the way. I am excited for my family to grow.”

Q: Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

A: “No, definitely not!”

[Editor’s note: Completely agree! Anyone who likes pineapple on pizza should be referred to you.]

Q: If you could star in any movie, what movie would it be, and what would be your role?

A: “The Titanic just so I could get to know Leonardo DiCaprio.”

Q: You are stranded on an island and you only get one item, what did you bring?

A: “Matches or a lighter so I can have something to keep me warm.”

Thank you for participating in our interview this week. We wish you the healthiest and the best Thanksgiving!

Preview: Hockey

By: BHS Sports Staff

November 16, 2023

After taking a short break from covering Winter Hurricanes’ sports previews, this week we are back and will preview the hockey team.

Last season was quite a fun one for the Hurricanes as they played a game at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse and also had the Cleveland Monsters’ mascot Sully come to one of their home games. However, they finished winless last season and are looking to prove the doubters wrong this season.

This team is young, but coach Mike Wrost is confident with his team.

“Our expectations for this season are to continue player development through fundamentals and to earn a few victories. We graduated nine seniors from last year’s team and need to bring the newer players up to speed quickly.”

With young returners and new faces, who is Coach Wrost excited to see on the ice?

“Key players for our team include junior goaltender Nick Supinski, who now has a year of experience under his belt as a goalie. Juniors Jeffrey Helmick and Phillip Banaszak will bring experience, leadership, and scoring power to the team this year. Sophomore Rocco Spiewacki and Junior Nate Hernandez will be called on to play defense this year, which is a new position for both. Also, newcomer Kyle Morgan brings previous hockey experience and a strong desire to make the team better.”

Coming off of a winless season can be difficult for team morale, but the Hurricanes are hungry and have both team and individual goals. Team goals for this upcoming season include competing in games to the end, regardless of the outcome. Several games last year were close and competitive, but the Hurricanes could not earn a victory. Another goal is player improvement, from returners to new faces. Landing several players on the Blue South All-Division Team would be great for the program.

The young Hurricanes seem ready for the grind and challenge that a new year presents. We know they will practice hard and will be well-coached.

The season begins this Sunday, November 19 at 2:30 against the Bay Rockets.

Good luck this season to all players, coaches, and fans.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Diego Colton

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

November 15, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Diego Colton. Diego is outgoing, energetic, and confident. His hobbies include playing baseball, playing video games, and listening to music. He is also an employee at Subway, where he has worked for the past six months. If you know Diego, you know that his shirts are off-the-charts comical.

Q: Do you think high school has prepared you for the real world?

A: “No, high school hasn’t prepared me for the real world because I’m not rich, yet.”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “My plan after high school is to find a full-time job in HVAC and eventually become a music producer.”

Q: Who do you idolize the most in your life?

A: “I idolize my grandpa because of how hard-working and determined he is with everything.”

Q: What do you think is the biggest problem facing young people today?

A: “I feel the biggest problem facing young people today is wanting to fit in, and nobody knows how to be themselves.”

Q: What do you like to do during your downtime?

A: “My favorite thing to do is play Fortnite OG because Fortnite is back.”

Q: What is one rule you live by?

A: “One rule I live by is this: Never beg someone to be in your life.”

Q: Are you more likely to be early or late?

A: “I’m more likely to be early because my mom always wants to be extra early to everything.”

Q: What is your biggest goal of senior year?

A: “My biggest goal is to graduate and become rich.”

Q: If you could have lunch with any famous person, who would it be?

A: “I would have lunch with Adam Sandler because his humor is unmatched, and he seems like a good guy.”

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

A: “Mr. Sedlacek because of how he takes his time to sit and speak to me about everything in life and how much he has taught me with baseball throughout high school.”

Diego, thank you for taking the time to let us get to know you more. We wish the best for your senior year and your future. Keep making people laugh!

November Wrap-Up

By: BHS News Staff

November 14, 2023

As Thanksgiving break is upon us, make sure you are staying on top of your assignments and meeting those deadlines because once school resumes on Monday, November 27, there will only be 15 school days remaining in the first semester.

Here are your weekly reminders before the end of November.

First, this Wednesday is the Fall Sports Banquet. Thank you to all of our student-athletes who participated, especially our seniors. The banquet will host athletes and their families to celebrate their accomplishments. Go Canes!

Secondly, also coming up this Wednesday is the casting announcement for the upcoming high school musical, The Little Mermaid. To everyone who auditioned, stay on the lookout for the list of who will star in this year’s show. For any questions, see Mrs. Cipriani.

Esports fan? There will be an Esports meeting on November 20 before the 2K24 Tournament, scheduled for December 11. Please make sure to visit your grade-level Google Classroom for more information and how to sign up. For any additional questions, see Mr. Jones.

Additionally, if you did not receive your Honor/Merit Roll field trip permission form, please make sure to see Mrs. Bader in the morning or in I.C.E. Block to pick one up. Remember, all Final Forms must be completed prior to the trip in order for you to attend. If you need any help checking your Final Forms status, ask your I.C.E. Block teachers.

Next, there will be a Winter sports informational meeting for girls and boys basketball and cheerleading on Tuesday, November 21. The meeting will begin at 6:00. For further questions, see Mr. Becker, Athletic Director.

Seniors, the time is NOW to submit your photos and cap/gown orders. Senior photos are due on December 15 and must meet all of the requirements listed in the Google Classroom assignment, or they will be recalled. Remember, if you do not submit a photo, then your school ID will be used instead.

Cap and Gown orders should be submitted by December 15, at the latest! You can order online or by using the forms found in the main office. Remember that it is only REQUIRED that you order a cap and gown; the rest of the items are up to you. For any questions or additional information, make sure to look back to the Senior Night Presentation in the Class of 2024 Google Classroom, or contact Mr. Ross or Mrs. Bir.

In a snap shot, here is your upcoming calendar:

November 15: Fall Sports Banquet
November 15: Little Mermaid Cast List
November 20: Esports Club Meeting
November 21: Honor/Merit Roll Field Trip
November 21: Winter Sports Informational Meeting
November 22-24: Thanksgiving Break
November 29: Internet Safety Presentation
December 2: SAT Testing
December 15: Deadline for Senior Picture Submission and Cap/Gown Orders

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, Brooklyn! Eat, rest, and be thankful.

Staff Spotlight: Miss Super

*Preschool Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

November 10, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Miss Jessica Super. This is currently Miss Super’s third year in the Brooklyn City School District. In her free time, she likes to spend a lot of time with her family, do yoga, and take tap dance classes. A fun fact about Miss Super is that her favorite singer is Justin Timberlake.

Q: What is your favorite part about teaching at the lower school?

A: “I like that we are all like one big family. I think as staff members, we are easily approachable. We have each others’ backs, and I think that carries over to our students. I see them taking care of each other in the hallway.”

Q: Do you think there is an area in Brooklyn needing improvement?

A: “If we could find ways to have all grade levels work together, even if we had the high schoolers come into the elementary school more or vice versa. It could be fun to do little events like that. I feel like we do well in the community and the school. Maybe having more opportunities would be great.”

Q: If you could teach any other grade level or class, what would it be?

A: “Right now, I teach Preschool Special Education. If I were to move to any other grade level, it would be K-3 Special Education. It would be fun to see the growth among the students.”

Q: Out of everything there is to offer at Brooklyn, why did you choose to become a preschool teacher?

A: “I just love the age group. When I was looking to come here, everything I heard from everyone that was already here, I loved the preschool program and the different opportunities we have.”

Q: Do you consider yourself to be an indoor or outdoor person?

A: “I like the outdoors. I think it is helpful for me to relieve stress.”

Q: If you could go back in time to tell your younger self something, what would it be?

A: “Do not worry so much; everything will figure itself out.”

Q: What is your favorite meal?

A: “Tacos!”

{Editor’s note: Great choice!}

Q: What is your favorite season?

A: “Fall! I love the weather and activities. My birthday is also in the Fall.”

Thank you for letting us interview you, Miss Super. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy making many memories with your preschool students.

Snapshot of Cleveland Sports

By: BHS Sports Staff

November 9, 2023

The last two weeks, we previewed both the girls and boys basketball teams. For this week, we will take a break from the Winter Hurricanes sports previews to provide a snapshot of Cleveland sports.

Starting off with the Browns, they currently stand at 5-3, coming off their first shutout win since December 16, 2007. Even though the Arizona Cardinals are in full tank-mode, a 27-0 blanking of the red birds bodes well for confidence.

The five wins were over the Bengals, Titans, Colts, Cardinals, and even an upset victory against the 5-0 (at the time) 49ers.

However, the Browns have lost a few key players this season such as the best running back in the NFL, Nick Chubb. Right tackle Jack Conklin is out for the season, and left tackle Jedrick Wills, Jr. is out for a minimum of six weeks.

This Sunday is a major test as the Browns face the 7-2 Baltimore Ravens, who are currently leading the stacked AFC North.

If the season ended right now, the Browns would be the sixth seed in the AFC and would face the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Go Browns!

Next up are the Cavaliers, who are not off to the best start, currently standing at 3-5.

However, they have had some impressive wins against the Nets, Knicks, and Warriors.

All-Star Donovan Mitchell has been the leader of this young squad, as he has tallied 30.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 5.6 APG.

The Cavs made a few good moves this offseason, signing forward Max Strus, forward Georges Niang, and another forward Ty Jerome to help bolster their depth.

They will look to get it together in their upcoming West Coast trip, as they will battle the Warriors, Kings, and Trail Blazers.

Go Cavs!

Next on the list are the Guardians. After a disappointing season where they finished with a record of 76-86, the Guardians already got to work this offseason.

First, they claimed catcher Christian Bethancourt off of waivers, who hit .225 last season with 11 HRs and 33 RBIs. Next, because longtime manager Terry “Tito” Francona stepped down, the Guardians hired Stephen Vogt as their next manager.

Vogt had a 10-year major league career and spent most of the time with the Oakland Athletics. In his career, he averaged .239 and hit 82 HRs with 313 RBIs.

He is young and inexperienced, but the Guardians’ front office is one of the best in baseball.

The Guardians will likely be busy in free agency, as they will need an outfield power bat to help the middle of their lineup.

Go Guardians!

Lastly, we have the Cleveland Monsters, the AHL affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Monsters have a record of 6-3-0 and are second in the North Division.

Right wing Trey Fix-Wolansky has led the team in points with four goals and 10 assists. Another leader for the Monsters is defenseman Nick Blankenburg. Blankenburg has tallied three goals and five assists.

The Monsters will look to make the playoffs again with a pretty talented squad after missing out last year.

Go Monsters!

Good luck to all of our Cleveland sports teams. And just a reminder, Pittsburgh still stinks!

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

Senior Spotlight: Kiara Miranda

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

November 8, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Kiara Miranda. Kiara transferred to Brooklyn from Fairview High School three years ago. She recently had a job for five months working at Barrio, but her sole focus this year is concentrating on school and figuring out her future, post-graduation.

Q: Do you think high school has prepared you for the real world?

A: “This year prepared me the most, especially Mrs. Hansen’s Consumer Math class.”

Q: What do you plan on doing after high school?

A: “I want to have a nine-to-five job, but I eventually want to get into Real Estate.”

Q: What advice would you give to next year’s seniors?

A: “Don’t play around, and get your school work done.”

Q: What is your dream vacation?

A: “My dream vacation is going to Hawaii.”

Q: If you were able to travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: “I would love to visit anywhere in which I could see the Northern Lights.”

Q: Who are you most grateful for in your life?

A: “I am most grateful for my mom because she gave me life.”

Q: What is the one sacrifice you would not be willing to make, even if it meant solving all of the world’s problems?

A: “I would not sacrifice myself because that would mean I wouldn’t be able to live life to the fullest.”

Q: What has been the highlight of your senior year to this point?

A: “I passed the first quarter with good grades.”

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?

A: “My favorite holiday would have to be Valentine’s Day because it’s full of love.”

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

A: “Mrs. Meeks because she always manages to put a smile on my face when I’m upset.”

Have a great senior year, Kiara! Keep your grades up and build towards your future.

Election Day

By: BHS News Staff

November 7, 2023

Become an Election Day Pollworker | City of Detroit

Happy Election week! Thanksgiving is also right around the corner, so what is happening in the present?

First, here is a friendly reminder that today (November 7), there will be no school as Brooklyn High School’s main gymnasium is a polling station.

In addition, are you looking for a way to boost your community service hours and your morale? Due to the high school being closed today, the guidance office has organized a community yard pickup. They are looking for students who will be available from 8:30 to 2:30. Any student who helps will receive six community service hours. If you are interested, there is a Google Form located in each grade’s Google Classroom. But remember, fill out the form quickly as the community service project(s) will happen today.

Secondly, the Brooklyn Drama Club is holding Spring musical auditions for The Little Mermaid on Wednesday, November 8, at 3:15.

Next, picture retakes for all students and staff will be held on November 9 from 10:00-12:00 in the auditorium.

On November 10, there will be a Veterans Day presentation to honor all the soldiers who fought for our country. The presentation will be held in the high school auditorium from 8:00 to 12:00 and will be followed by a breakfast for the veterans in attendance.

Seniors, the time is now to place the orders for your cap and gown. Remember, the sooner you order, the more time you will have to pay it off. See Mr. Ross for order forms and more information.

Another reminder for seniors, Mrs. Bader and the yearbook staff have sent out senior message order forms. With this form, you can buy up to a full yearbook page all for yourself. The form must be completed and turned in with the picture’s message and payment by Friday, December 15. See Mrs. Bader for more information.

Attention seniors, there is a scholarship opportunity available for $10,000 off of your college tuition. There will be one winner chosen on January 15, 2024. All seniors must apply before December 15. Check your senior Google Classroom for more information.

Finally, in some feel-good news, both the College and Career Success III and IV classes put together shoeboxes stuffed with toys and other miscellaneous items for impoverished children around the world. The organization that runs this outreach is Operation Christmas Child. This is a great program for helping others, and we are glad to be a part of it.

Here is your upcoming calendar:

November 7: NO SCHOOL (Election Day/Community Service Yard Pick-Up)
November 8: Auditions for The Little Mermaid
November 9: High School Picture Retakes
November 10: Veterans Day Presentation
November 15: Fall Sports Banquet
November 22-24: Thanksgiving Break

Have a wonderful week, Brooklyn. Stay on top of your grades, and enjoy this beautiful Fall week.

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

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Grigson

*7th Grade ELA Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

November 3, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mr. John Grigson. This is Mr. Grigson’s first year in the Brooklyn City School District, and he has been a great addition. What he is most likely doing in his free time is hiking with family, watching sports, coaching soccer, and grilling. A fun fact about him is that he is very good at naming songs.

Q: How do you like Brooklyn?

A: “I love it! I am fortunate to have a good seventh grade team that has helped me acclimate myself in the district. The staff here is very supportive. I feel like if there are any concerns I might have, I have a lot of options to ensure that things are going smoothly this year. I love the presence that the administration gives. It is very nice to know that I see my principles, often. With Dr. Caleris walking around the district, it shows those who are in charge of the schools. Those in the district really care about the district as well.”

Q: What inspired you to become a teacher?

A: “I would have to say my overall experience through my schooling. I had a lot of really amazing teachers and a couple of male teachers. I looked up to them because I wanted to grow up to be like them and impact lives like they did. They made the class fun and interactive. They also made it feel like a safe space. Overall, the experience I had with school went beyond my studies; it went into the relationships I developed with those teachers, and I am friends with a lot of those teachers to this day.”

Q: How do you learn about the specific learning requirements of each student?

A: “I must develop a really good relationship with my students. At the beginning of the year, I like to give a questionnaire, kind of see what their strengths and weaknesses are. I give them self-evaluations. I touch base with parents regularly and especially at conferences as well, just kind of getting feedback on their child’s overall schooling. I also happen to differentiate in the classroom; that way, I’m hitting on as many learning styles as I can.”

Q: Do you have any hidden talents? If so, what are they?

A: “I am not sure if it is hidden, but I am a decent singer; I can do some pretty good impersonations as well.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

A: “Chios, Greece! That is where my grandfather is from. I think he truly lived the American dream of coming over here with limited funds and making a very good life for himself. I want to go back to where my family started to kind of see what his life was like before coming to The United States.”

Q: What are your favorite sports teams to watch and cheer for?

A: “Anything Cleveland! Any Cleveland sports teams, preferably the Guardians. I love going to as many Guardians games as I can. I also love the Browns, although they make me feel like I am getting older. I like the Chelsea Football Club, too, and that is a London soccer team.”

Q: If you could only listen to one music genre, what would it be?

A: “I will have to go with Yacht Rock. Yacht Rock is the type of ‘70s and ‘80s soft rock you expect to hear on a boat. It is relaxing, and most of the songs have good stories to them. I like that the words and the lyrics are important. I feel like I can just kind of lounge when I listen to that music; it eases my mind.”

Thank you for the interview, Mr. Grigson! We fully welcome you into our community, and we wish you the best of luck through your first year here at Brooklyn and beyond.