THE RETURN OF THE EYE

A New Mural & Other News

By: BHS News Staff

February 6, 2024

Another month in the books and a new month is here. As we welcome in February, we have some fun updates to share.

First off, the girls varsity basketball team will conduct its senior night this evening at 5:45, prior to tip-off against Medina Christian Academy. Tomorrow evening, the boys varsity basketball team will honor its seniors before battling Lincoln West. Please come out and support these Winter senior athletes for having wonderful careers on the hardwood.

Next, students in the Art Honors Society (Anisha Monger, Giada Santin, and Jade Freed) have been working on a mural in Mr. Larson’s office (pictured below) since last September. The idea for this spectacular work of art came from a need for dramatic change to an old mural in its current place. The mural covers floor to ceiling, and their work is an impressive story of determination and hard work.

So, how did all of this come together?

“Mr. Larson wanted a landscape mural, specifically a road to imagine himself riding his motorcycle. We sent references and started to work on the ideas for all the trees and different colors. Ultimately, a Fall scene was chosen. We redid a lot of things and changed some ideas; it was tough considering the atmosphere and perspective, specifically adding depth with the grass and sky making it lighter and stronger in the back. We split up roles. Giada did the trees, Jade worked on the sky and road, and Anisha the grass and leaves. We asked others for their thoughts and took their constructive criticism from their perspectives,” stated Art teacher Mr. Chris Kaspar.

These three students did a remarkable job with Mr. Larson’s mural. Excellent work Giada, Jade, and Anisha!

Hurricane Heritage Week is here, so make sure to check out the flier below to see how to participate.

Did you make Honor Roll or Merit Roll last quarter? If so, please vote for your top three movie selections in Google Classroom. If you have any questions, see Mrs. Bader.

Also, seniors and juniors, prom is approaching. This year’s prom will be held on Friday, May 17, at Windows on the River. In each Google classroom, there is a discount flyer from Tuxedo Junction for $50 off of a tux/suit rental. Take advantage of this amazing deal!

Finally, there are two Esports meetings coming up, February 6 (today) and February 20, both after school. See Mr. Jones if you have any questions.

Here are the important dates for February:

February 5-9: Hurricane Heritage Week
February 6: Esports Meeting
February 6: Girls Varsity Basketball Senior Night
February 7: Boys Varsity Basketball Senior Night
February 9: Multicultural Parade
February 16: NO SCHOOL (Inservice Day)
February 19: NO SCHOOL (Presidents Day)
February 20: Esports Meeting
February 29: Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences

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

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Gump

*2nd Grade Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

February 2, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Danelle Gump. This is currently her fourth year teaching second grade but year 18 all together here in the Brooklyn City School District. Mrs. Gump previously worked outside of Brooklyn, where she taught at The Goddard School. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family; she has a 13-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter. She also loves exercising, reading, shopping, and baking. A fun fact about her is that she originally wanted to be a dental hygienist. On the other hand, she is very happy that she did not choose that route because she cannot stand loose teeth.

Q: How would your past students, colleagues, and administrators describe you?

A: “I think they would describe me as hardworking, dedicated, and flexible.”

Q: What has been your greatest challenge in education?

A: “My greatest challenge in teaching was definitely during COVID. In the 2019-2020 school year, it was my first year in second grade. There were a lot of changes all at once. Learning how to use technology, Zoom, and students being quarantined, I wanted to try and work on a personal work level as best as I could.”

Q: What techniques do you use to keep students actively involved and motivated during a lesson?

A: “With the second graders, they are obviously much younger; there is a lot of movement and hands-on activities to keep them engaged while continuing to learn.”

Q: How would you describe your teaching style?

A: “I adjust to what the students need. I always look for fun ways to incorporate technology into their learning. I just try to keep up with not just how I learned things but how students and kids these days try to learn.”

Q: Would you rather have the power of invisibility or the power to teleport back in time?

A: “I would like to look back in time. I think there is a lot that humans, in general, could learn from the past.”

Q: What is your dream vacation?

A: “I love the beach! We usually go down to the Charleston, South Carolina area. That’s my very realistic dream. I would also like to go overseas to Italy and Ireland.”

Q: If you could only wear one color for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: “I think I would probably choose yellow because I have a lot of yellow clothing, and that is what I feel fits me.”

Q: Dunkin’ or Starbucks?

A: “Starbucks because Dunkin always tastes a little crisp to me. The other reason why I like Starbucks is because I like their Chai Tea and not the coffee.”

Mrs. Gump, thank you for letting us interview you. It was such a pleasure getting to know more about you, your background, and your interests. We wish you the best of luck throughout the rest of the school year. Soon, you can head back down to South Carolina for a nice, warm, Summer getaway.

Hurricanes Cruise Past the Phoenix

By: BHS Sports Staff

February 1, 2024

This past Tuesday, the boys varsity basketball team hosted the Oberlin Phoenix in a non conference bout. The Canes came in with a record of 8-7, while Oberlin came limping in with a 1-13 mark.

After defeating CVC foe Independence on the road last Friday, the Hurricanes looked to make it two straight victories.

The hosts jumped out to an early 8-0 lead within the first two minutes with two three-pointers from seniors Santana Sammons and Jaiden Ramos, forcing Oberlin to call a quick timeout. Their momentum did not stop after the timeout as they kept playing well on both ends of the floor. After the first quarter, the Hurricanes built a commanding lead, 20-7.

The Hurricanes continued to play great, swarming defense and forced multiple turnovers in the second quarter, but they could not seem to knock down shots as they were held to just six points in the second period.

However, heading into the locker room, the Hurricanes maintained a double-digit lead, 26-16. Sammons led the way with 12 first half points.

In the third quarter, the Hurricanes maintained their lead and did not allow the Phoenix to chip away. Outscoring the visitors 13-6 in the frame, the Hurricanes expanded their lead to 39-22 as both teams prepared for the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Hurricanes started off with a 7-0 run and led by as many as 24 points. Simply, they put the dagger in the Phoenix’s coffin. Clearing out the bench, the boys prevailed by a final score of 54-31.

The Hurricanes improved to 9-7, while Oberlin dropped to 1-14.

Up next, a big-time CVC battle at Trinity with both teams vying for first place in the Metro Division. Tip-off is Friday at 6:45.

Additionally, there will be a girls and boys basketball doubleheader next Tuesday against Medina Christian Academy. This will also be senior night for the girls.

The boys senior night will be on Wednesday, February 7, against Lincoln West.

Finally, the hockey team will be playing their final regular season game at home tonight against Cleveland Heights at 7:30. Come out and support the team!

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Desireé Gailes

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

January 31, 2024

Chosen for this week’s second senior spotlight is Desireé Gailes. Desireé is outgoing, intelligent, and talented. She enjoys singing, cooking, napping, and going out with friends. She has also worked at Raising Canes for a year-and-a-half now and has been a part of Brooklyn’s Drama Club for five years.

Q: What song would you use to describe your senior year?

A: “‘Mirrors’ by Justin Timberlake describes my senior year, specifically the line ‘Yesterday is history. Tomorrow’s a mystery.’ This year has literally flown by, and I just need to go with the flow and remember that everyday is a new day.”

Q: What does senioritis mean to you?

A: “To me, senioritis is slowing down before the finish line. We’re so close but still so far.”

Q: What are the most important characteristics in your future college?

A: “The most important characteristic in my future college is having a music community. I want to be in a close friend group and do everything together. We have to bond over our favorite musicals and have karaoke night.”

Q: Describe your funniest high school memory.

A: “The funniest moment by far is when my friends and I went to Lakewood Park to see the sunset. Then, we played on the playground for HOURS. I felt like a kid again, with no cares in the world.”

Q: What impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on your high school experience?

A: “Overall, I feel like I missed out on things because I could never leave the house, even though some others could.”

Q: What or who is your motivation?

A: “I am motivated by wanting to succeed so badly. I take inspiration from some of my favorite musicals like Hamilton, High School Musical, and Pitch Perfect. I look at people like Renee Rapp who was just a normal teenager until she went viral and is now starring in musicals and movies.”

Q: Would you rather get up early or stay up late?

A: “I would much rather stay up late than get up early. I am definitely not a morning person.”

Q: With whom did you have your most meaningful relationships during your senior year thus far?

A: “My most meaningful relationships have been with the same group of people I’ve grown up with since kindergarten. Most of us have stayed close, and we often look back at our friendships back in middle school and laugh.”

Q: What are you most proud of?

A: “I am most proud of my performances in the musicals, specifically last year doing Sister Act. If you ask any of the cast, I was trying so hard not to cry during the bows, but as soon as the curtains closed, I was bawling my eyes out. I was so proud of myself that throughout many hard rehearsals and last minute changes, I was able to bring people joy. This was the first of many standing ovations I will have.”

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

A: “My biggest inspiration is Mrs. Cipriani. She had a fantastic career doing shows all over the world and on Broadway. I want to follow in her footsteps, and she has done everything in her ability to help me along the way.”

Desireé, thank you for letting us get to know you better. Good luck to you in all that you want to accomplish.

Senior Spotlight: Anthony Pytel

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

January 31, 2024

Chosen for this week’s first senior spotlight is Anthony Pytel. Anthony is intelligent, calm, and determined. He enjoys playing basketball, golfing, spending time with family, reading, and sometimes, cooking.

Q: What is your favorite memory from elementary school?

A: “One of my favorite memories from elementary school would have to be the first time I played basketball on the black top with my friends. I used to be very timid and almost scared to ask to play with everyone else. But one day, I built up the courage to ask, which resulted in me making friends because of my skills. I then enjoyed recess everyday.”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “After high school, I plan on attending Baldwin Wallace University to major in Business and minor in either Economics or Finance. I plan on obtaining as much knowledge as I possibly can in order to pursue and excel with anything I desire/choose to do in my life. I also plan on playing varsity basketball at Baldwin Wallace.”

Q: Describe senioritis.

A: “Senioritis to me means to not place school at the top of the priority list, as it used to be. It means to start looking past the walls of the school and start looking towards one’s future. When we’re young, school is more of a priority for the purpose of graduating off to a good college. However, now that the time of graduation is getting closer, we are beginning to treat school less seriously due to the fact that we’re so close to achieving the whole purpose of school.”

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

A: “I believe the biggest problem young people face is the pressure to fit in. Additionally, young people nowadays are constantly degrading others who they ‘believe’ are beneath them in hopes of achieving higher status or even fitting in with the ‘popular’ crowd. Everyone is not always genuine, and if they are, most of the time they are the ones getting questioned and singled out despite the fact that they are being true to themselves. This whole generation has created its own rule of how to act and how to treat others. And if broken, it will result in you getting backlash and criticism. Ostracism: It’s what scares most young people today from being their own person. If we can get over the fear of criticism and necessary isolation, we will see a change for the better.”

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

A: “I believe that loyalty is the most important quality in a friendship. I believe this because you need to have companions who will defend you when you aren’t there, who will treat you with respect, and who you know will always have the best interests in mind for you. All of those stem from loyalty.”

Q: What is the strongest advice your parents ever gave you?

A: “One of the strongest messages I’ve received from my parents is to not quit, no matter what. If I set myself on a path or if I decided I would try something, I would follow through with it until the end. I was never to take the easy way out, no shortcuts. I was to finish when I was finished, not when I felt like it.”

Q: What dreams do you have for tomorrow’s world?

A: “Some dreams I have for the world of tomorrow is for people to treat each other with more respect. Not only respect, but I wish for people to try and be more understanding with others, whether that’s being with their opinions, beliefs, and even morals.”

Q: What is your greatest fear?

A: “My greatest fear is probably Atychiphobia, which is the fear of failure. Sometimes, I don’t realize it at the moment, but I do fear failing. I believe a lot of people do, too. However, I don’t run away from it anymore; instead, I face it head on by doing the things I am scared of with courage. And, I have learned to take failure and apply it to ways of getting better, otherwise known as success.”

Q: Who is your hero?

A: “I’d say that my heroes are my mom and dad. They have both taught me so many lessons and have always been there for me when I needed them, no matter what. They have influenced me into the person I am and the one who I am becoming.”

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

A: “The most influential/inspirational teacher I’ve been under would have to be Mrs. Hansen. I have had many talks with her about life, money, and other things, and she has always made sure that I had a good understanding of what I had asked her. She helped me obtain knowledge on how to do things the right way and the best way. I’m grateful for her.”

Anthony, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish the best for your senior year and your future at BWU and beyond. Go Yellow Jackets! 🐝

Hurricane Heritage Week Interview

By: BHS News Staff

January 30, 2024

Hello, Brooklyn! As we are quickly approaching the end of January, our Hurricane Heritage Week is coming up in less than a week.

In order to get more information for next week’s event, the BHS News Staff sat down for an interview with Mrs. Supriya Culliton, the Director of Student Programs for the Brooklyn City School District.

She was very gracious with her time, so here is what you need to know for next week.

*Question 1: First off, give us a little background information of yourself.

“I came to the United States at 11-years-old and knew no English. I then finished high school and went to Cleveland State for my Bachelor’s in Education. Then, I taught grades 4-8 in all subjects but mostly math and English for 22 years. Then, I got a Master’s Degree in Curriculum Instruction & Principal’s Administration and became a school principal. Three years ago, I joined the Brooklyn team and became the Director of Student Support Programs and Engagement.”

*Question 2: Explain your roles.

“I work with English Second Language (ESL) students, gifted students, and programs such as the Brooklyn Career Pathways. I develop the programming for all assessments from Pre-K to Grade 12 (test prep and management). I’m also a part of the Chamber of Commerce. I mainly work in student engagement across the district.”

*Question 3: How did Hurricane Heritage Week come about?

“One of the teachers brought up how a long time ago, we had a cultural event, and from there, the new ideas for the Hurricane Heritage Committee were created. It was thus broken down into committees with a collaborative effort from teachers. Now, the project has grown, and our Brooklyn community outside of the schools has gotten involved including the Brooklyn Library Branch, which is incorporating the cultural events into after school activities. A huge thank you to the teachers who put together instructional materials and activities. They really bring all of these ideas together!”

*Question 4: Why is showcasing this event so important?

“It is really important, especially now, to appreciate the differences in each other and to learn to respect one another. The hope is that this event enlightens, empowers, and strengthens students to be sensitive to where others came from.”

*Question 5: How can we as students be more engaged in this activity?

“High schoolers should connect with teachers and participate! We love seeing the engagement in our community, and it sets the example for the younger students. Meeting with the Foreign language teachers who assist in spirit week and announcements also greatly helps in putting this together.”

We would like to thank you, Mrs. Culliton, for your time and effort in bringing our diverse and growing school community together!

Hurricane Heritage Week will include multiple crafts, crowns, various activities featuring multiple aspects of different countries, door decorating in the elementary school, and a spirit week in the high school. The parade is extended to both schools to bridge the gap between our younger and older students.

Next week will be fun and educational. A big thank you to all involved for bringing this event to life.

To wrap up this week, below is your upcoming calendar:

January 30: Boys Basketball Home Game vs. Oberlin at 7:00 p.m.
January 31: Girls Basketball Away Game at Lutheran West at 6:00 p.m.
February 5-9: Hurricane Heritage Week
February 6: Senior Night for Girls Basketball at 5:30.
February 7: Senior Night for Boys Basketball and Cheerleading at 6:30

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

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Sullivan

*5th Grade Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

January 26, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Kristen Sullivan. Mrs. Sullivan has been teaching in the Brooklyn City School District for 26 years. She has never worked outside of Brooklyn. In her free time, she loves to dance, read, and spend time with her family. A fun fact about her is that she works with her husband in the same school district and directs the Hurricettes.

Q: What do you like most about working in Brooklyn?

A: “I like coming into work and seeing happy faces, happy people, and happy kids. I also enjoy working with my coworkers and seeing my students grow with their learning.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about working with fifth graders?

A: “I get to teach some of the kids twice if I had them when they were in third grade.”

Q: How supportive is the Brooklyn City School District?

A: “They are very supportive, always giving us different things to do in the district.”

Q: In your opinion, what is the most important aspect of being an elementary teacher?

A: “I would say helping the kids learn and helping them to be more successful in their learning.”

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: “Bowling Green State University. I chose that school because I knew it had a good teaching program.”

Q: What was your very first job?

A: “I taught at Roadoan Elementary.”

Q: What is your most used smartphone app?

A: “My Dunkin Donuts app.”

{Editor’s Note: I believe this to be universal throughout our district. ☕}

Q: If you could live in any movie what would it be?

A: “Tangled!”

Thank you, Mrs. Sullivan, for taking time out of your day to let us interview you. It was a pleasure getting to know more about you. We wish you a wonderful rest of the year.

NFL Championship Weekend

By: BHS Sports Staff

January 25, 2024

Unfortunately, the Browns are out of the playoffs, and as we frequently say in Cleveland, “There is always next year.”

With this, the NFL Divisional Round wrapped up last weekend, so it is appropriate to recap all of the games, along with previewing Championship Weekend.

AFC Divisional Round

Texans vs. Ravens: After defeating the Browns, CJ Stroud and the Texans were faced with a tough task against the #1 seeded Ravens. In the first quarter, both teams traded field goals, but in the second quarter, Lamar Jackson and Nelson Agholor connected for a three-yard touchdown to put them 10-3. After a punt by Baltimore on their next drive, Texans punt returner Steven Sims took it to the endzone to even the score heading into half. However, the second half was all Baltimore. In the third quarter, Jackson ran for a 15-yard touchdown to put the Ravens back in front. In the fourth quarter, Jackson threw another touchdown, this time to his TE Isaiah Likely to put the Ravens up two scores. Then, Jackson ran for his second touchdown of the game to seal a conference championship berth. The Ravens got one more field goal at the end, as they won it 34-10.

Chiefs vs. Bills: This game was the most anticipated out of all of the divisional matchups. To start off the game, Bills kicker Tyler Bass kicked a 27-yard field goal to put the Bills in front, 3-0. The Chiefs responded with a 47-yard field goal from Harrison Butker. The second quarter began and Josh Allen rushed in for a five-yard touchdown, making the score 10-3. The Chiefs took the lead right back by kicking a 29-yard field goal followed by Patrick Mahomes throwing a 22-yard touchdown to Cleveland native Travis Kelce. To wrap up the first half, Josh Allen ran in for his second touchdown of the game to give the Bills the lead right back. In the third quarter, the Chiefs answered right back with Kelce’s second touchdown of the game. The Bills respond back once again with a touchdown by Khalil Shakir, receiving a pass from Allen. With a close, back-and-forth game, the Chiefs scored a four-yard run from Isiah Pacheco. However, after a failed fake punt by the Bills, the Chiefs got right back towards the end zone. But, they fumbled in the endzone giving the Bills the ball back. With one last opportunity to tie the game, Bass missed a huge 44-yard field goal to end the game. The final score ended 27-24 with the Chiefs advancing to the championship and traveling to Baltimore this Sunday.

NFC Divisional Round

Packers vs. 49ers: After the Packers pulled off an upset against the two-seeded Cowboys, they were faced with another tough task against the one-seeded 49ers. Packers kicker Anders Carlson started the game off with a 29-yard field goal. In the second, Brock Purdy and George Kittle connected for a 32-yard touchdown. The Packers got a second field goal before halftime, but the Niners still led 7-6 at the break. In the third quarter, the game was back-and-forth with a Packers touchdown followed by a Christian McCaffrey 39-yard touchdown. Then, the Packers answered with a touchdown plus the two point conversion. In the fourth, the 49ers got a field goal to make it 21-17 in favor of Green Bay. After a missed field goal by the Packers, the 49ers got a touchdown near the end to win the game and send them to the conference championship.

Buccaneers vs. Lions: The first quarter started off with the Lions and Bucs trading field goals. Early in the second quarter, Lions receiver Josh Reynolds scored a touchdown with a nine-yard pass from Jared Goff. Later in the second quarter, former Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield connected with Cade Otton to tie the game before half. In the third, the Lions and Bucs traded touchdowns. However, the Lions gained a dominating lead scoring two touchdowns with a 31-yard run from Jahmyr Gibbs and Goff connecting with Amon-Ra St. Brown for a nine-yard pass. In the last minutes of the fourth, the Bucs got a touchdown to make it a one score game, but they failed to get the two point conversion. After a Lions punt, the Buccaneers had one last shot, but Mayfield threw an interception to end the game. The Lions moved on to the NFC Championship with a 31-23 win.

Now, it is time to preview Championship Weekend to find out who plays in Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas on Sunday, February 11.

AFC: #3 Chiefs vs. #1 Ravens

This is the sixth straight AFC Championship game for the Chiefs, but this time, they are on the road against the #1 Ravens, who have carried their dominance from the regular season into the playoffs. The Ravens are favored by 3.5 points in this matchup. The BHS Sports staff likes the John Harbaugh-led Ravens to advance to the Super Bowl.

NFC: #3 Lions vs. #1 49ers

The last time the Lions were in the NFC Championship game was in 1992, but the 49ers were here last year but lost to the Eagles. The 49ers are favored in this game with home field advantage, but it seems like most of America is rooting for the underdog Lions to make their first Super Bowl in franchise history. The BHS Sports staff likes the underdog Lions to advance to their first Super Bowl.

This is shaping up to be a very entertaining Championship Weekend. You can keep up with the scores and stats on the NFL website.

Have a great football weekend, Brooklyn!

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

Senior Spotlight: Cierra Forte

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

January 24, 2024

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Cierra Forte. Cierra is determined, nice, and a good friend. She works full-time as a call agent. In her free time, she loves to write and take notes about everything that she wants to accomplish in her future. She would also like to shout out her parents, grandparents, and sister. She wants to let them know that she would not have accomplished anything without them.

Q: Do you plan on going to college?

A: “Yes, I do plan on going to college. I plan on going to Tri-C for Nursing.”

Q: What is the most challenging aspect as a senior to this point?

A: “I would say the most challenging task as a senior is passing with grades higher than a C.”

Q: What is the strangest advice that your parents ever gave you that proved to be correct?

A: “The strangest advice my parents gave me was that everyone is not your friend. Throughout the years, I’ve noticed that they were right.”

Q: Which memory will you remember forever about your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “A memory that I will always remember is our school pep rallies.”

Q: What is your life’s motto?

A: “My life motto will always be that if I can’t change it, I won’t let it bother me.”

Q: Who has given you the best advice?

A: “I would have to save the best advice I received was from Mr. Holko when he said, ‘The only bad decision (about my future) is not making one.’”

Q: What or who are you most grateful for?

A: “I’m most grateful for my son! I’ve been working really hard for him.”

Q: What is your greatest fear?

A: “My greatest fear was always speaking up, and over time, I overcame it.”

Q: Any lifelong friendships made here at BHS?

A: “Yes, Audrena is my lifetime friend.”

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

A: “Out of my entire school career, I would have to say Mrs. Meeks has had the biggest influence on me. She’s like a mom to me.”

Cierra, we hope that you have an amazing rest of your senior year. Shoot for the stars!

Meetings, Scholarships, and More

By: BHS News Staff

January 23, 2024

Happy Tuesday, BHS! Glad you enjoyed last week’s snow days; we sure did! Now, here are some reminders for the end of January and beyond.

First off, please remember that the first Prom Committee meeting is TODAY at 3:05 in Mrs. Holko’s room (271). Bring your creative ideas to make this the best prom ever.

Next, there will be a Drama Club Parent Meeting TODAY at 6:30 in the choir room. For more information, contact Mrs. Cipriani.

Seniors, do you want free money for college? There are numerous scholarships available, and below is a brief summary of each. If you are a senior, please consider applying as every scholarship will help you decrease your collegiate tuition. For more information, visit the senior Google Classroom.

*Cleveland Hockey Booster Club: Senior hockey players, the Cleveland Hockey Booster Club is now accepting applications from high school seniors currently playing hockey and planning to attend college or a trade school in 2024. Four scholarships will be awarded with a minimum amount of $2,000. There is no GPA requirement; however, two recommendation letters and a 2–3 page essay are required by March 1.

*Kappa Alpha PSI: “Our goal is to identify candidates who understand how world affairs affect them and their communities. The successful applicant will have a healthy understanding of local, state, and national political issues. They will be able to demonstrate the ability to analyze data, make effective decisions, and have the capacity and tenacity to follow through.” Some of the requirements include three letters of recommendation, high school transcripts, a 200-word essay, and a personal photograph. Applicants will be chosen for an interview.

*Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship: “Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is a private, international organization with over 355,000 members worldwide. Lambda Phi Omega Chapter is one of the sorority’s 1,064 chapters. Our mission is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, and to promote unity and friendship among college women.” Some of the requirements include letters of recommendation, honors/awards, class rank, proof of college acceptance, and an essay. Applicants will be chosen for an interview.

Finally, we want to remind everyone of our upcoming Hurricane Heritage Week that will take place from February 5-9. During this week, there will be a showcase of the various cultures that reside in our community, and it will end with an international parade. In our next article, we will be interviewing Mrs. Supriya Culliton, the coordinator of student programs for our school district and also the organizer of this wonderful event.

To wrap up this week, below is your calendar for the remainder of January and into early February.

January 23: Prom Committee Meeting / Drama Club Parent Meeting
February 5-9: Hurricane Heritage Week
February 13: Senior Night for Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball & Cheerleading

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

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Yarman

*5th Grade Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

January 19, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Ann Marie Yarman. This is currently year 27 for her in education. Mrs. Yarman has never worked outside of Brooklyn. In her free time, she enjoys reading, creating 3D printings, and traveling. A fun fact about her is that she has four older brothers and no sisters.

Q: What do you like to see every day when you come to work?

A: “Students’ smiling faces!”

Q: What is the most inspirational advice someone has ever told you about teaching?

A: “Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions.”

Q: What is one positive aspect about teaching younger students as opposed to older students?

A: “Fifth graders like to ask questions and participate.”

Q: How do you keep yourself organized?

A: “I try to have my materials in a bin for each day of the week. So, I have a week ready to go when I leave on Friday.”

Q: What do you think is the best season?

A: “Autumn because I love apple cider, football games, and cool crisp days.”

Q: What Disney character do you resemble?

A: “I suppose Belle. I like to read, and I grew up in a small town. I also relate to her strong personality and strength.”

Q: What is your favorite animal?

A: “A cat. I think a cat in a good home has the best life. Sleep all day, get fed, and get attention when they want it.”

Q: Have you ever traveled?

A: “Yes! I love going on cruise ships. I have traveled to Europe, Puerto Rico, Spain, England, the Caribbean, and Alaska. I love experiencing new food, landmarks, and how others live their lives.”

Mrs. Yarman, just like your husband from last week’s spotlight, thank you for all that you do for students. Brooklyn is blessed to have you. Enjoy the rest of the school year. In the meantime, stay warm!

Gailes Taking Flight at UIS

By: BHS Sports Staff

January 18, 2024

Former Hurricanes basketball standout Shariah Gailes broke numerous records here at Brooklyn and won numerous team, conference, district, and all-state awards. One of the best all-around players to wear the Blue and Yellow, she has not missed a beat from her time here as a Hurricane to now a Prairie Star at The University of Illinois Springfield.

Competing in the Great Lakes Valley Conference in her freshman season, Gailes has blossomed early and is helping her young team compete for a conference title.

But according to her, the transition from high school basketball to college basketball was anything but easy.

“This season has definitely been the hardest year of my basketball career. As a team with a majority of freshmen, our main goal was building team chemistry on and off the court and developing a deep understanding of Division II basketball. The pace of the game is so much faster than in high school. In high school, I was taller than everyone else on the court. Now everyone is tall, everyone is fast, and everyone is good. In high school, there’s no shot clock, but in college, there’s a 30-second shot clock, which makes the game go much faster.”

Despite the challenges of learning how to balance school work and a harder level of basketball, Gailes is flourishing in her new home and role.

“Early in the season, we had an exhibition game versus Division I Indiana State (alma mater of NBA legend Larry Bird), and we won! This was a big confidence boost for the team and was the moment that we realized we could win any game at this level. Another highlight for me, personally, this season would be my game against William Jewell. I scored a career-high 27 points along with grabbing 12 rebounds. I also shot 100 percent from the free-throw line going 11-11.”

Dominating the stats sheet for the Hurricanes was never a problem for Gailes, and having success gave her the confidence to compete at the collegiate level.

Now that she is fully acclimated to what college basketball is about, what are her goals for the remainder of the season and for her career?

“My goal for the remainder of the season is to help my team win the regular season championship and the GLVC conference championship. For my collegiate career, I want rings and banners!”

Her former coach here at BHS Jon Holko had nothing but praise for Shariah.

“Shariah is the byproduct of hard work and intrinsic motivation. She was a star here, and she is going to be a star at UIS. She is the consummate teammate, and her drive to be great is contagious. I love checking in with her and hearing about the successes of her team. She was truly a blessing to coach, and I could not be more proud of her. With her skill set, she has the ability to dominate Division II basketball. I can’t wait to watch her in person, one day.”

Truly a diaper dandy, Hurricane Nation is extremely proud of you, Shariah. Keep up the good work, continue to improve, go earn those rings and banners, and be great.

Go Prairie Stars!

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