Boys Basketball on Fire

By: BHS Sports Staff

December 14, 2023 

The boys basketball team is off to a scorching hot 5-0 start for the 2023-2024 campaign. Their perfect record includes wins over Garrett Morgan 64-51, Chagrin Falls 53-44, Cloverleaf 62-61, Wickliffe 85-34, and Cuyahoga Heights (last night) 59-57 in overtime.

This early season has been a complete team effort as everyone has contributed. Senior Jaiden Ramos is leading the way with 16.7 ppg, followed by sophomore Devin Hardwick with 13.6 ppg. Senior Santana Sammons is averaging 12.5 ppg, senior Anthony Pytel is at 12.5 ppg, freshman Muhammed Manigat is chipping in with 7.0 ppg, and juniors Aiden Starr and Tyler Cox have tallied 3.0 ppg.

The leading 3-point shooters are Sammons, Manigat, and Cox. 

Having four players scoring in double figures shows you their balance.

On the other end of the floor, the team defense has been stellar, holding opponents to under 50 ppg. The biggest moment of the season, thus far, is a game-winning three-pointer with 1.4 seconds left to beat Cloverleaf on the road. Sammons’ dagger, in his own words, was the biggest bucket of his high school career. 

Another highlight was when Ramos went for a season-high 25 points in a blowout victory at Wickliffe. 

Great job, boys! Continue this momentum into the Chagrin Valley Conference battle with Fairview on Saturday. Tip-off is at 1:30 at home.

In addition to Saturday’s game, Coach Jeff Shepherd will be honored prior to tip-off for achieving a coaching milestone of accumulating 200 victories as a head coach. Congratulations, Coach Shep!

In other Winter sports, the girls basketball team fell to 1-3 after a 42-29 loss to Beachwood last Tuesday. They will look to get back on track tomorrow night as they host Lutheran West. 

Also, the hockey team faces Bay tonight at 7:30. Good luck!

Go Canes!

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

Top 5 Christmas Movies

By: BHS Features Staff

December 13, 2023

This time of year can be summed up as follows: Family, friends, love, food, and? Christmas movies!

A lot of these old classics are well-known and very popular. Most Christmas movie fanatics love to watch them in the evenings with a beautiful snow fall; simply, it is an annual tradition.

With so many movies to choose from, we decided to rank some of our favorite Christmas movies with a short summary of each one. Let’s see if you agree with our Top 5 list.

1. The Grinch

The Grinch, played by Jim Carrey, and his dog Max live in a cave on Mount Crumpet isolated from everybody. His main source of hatred comes from Christmastime due to his neighbors in Whoville celebrating loudly every year. One year as the Whos make Christmas bigger and brighter, the Grinch decides to make sure he gets his peace and quiet once and for all. With help from Max, the Grinch poses as Santa Clause to steal Whoville’s Christmas and silence their holiday cheer. 

2. Elf

Buddy the Elf, played by Will Ferrell, was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York City, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. As he found his father Walter Hobbs, played by the late James Caan, a cynical businessman who didn’t believe Buddy was his, took a DNA test, and it came back positive. Walter attempts to start a relationship with Buddy. 

3. Home Alone 

The night before the family’s trip to Paris, Kevin wasn’t on his best behavior. He was talking back to his mom, so she sent him upstairs to sleep in the attic for the night. He went on to say that he wished that his family would disappear (Don’t we all wish that at times?). The next morning, the family woke up and left for Paris, forgetting Kevin. As Kevin woke up, he noticed no one was home, so he really thought his wish came true. That night, though, he noticed robbers trying to break into his house and creatively fought them off.

4. A Christmas Carol 

As London awaits the joyful arrival of Christmas, Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Jim Carrey, thinks it’s all humbug. Berating his faithful clerk and cheerful nephew for their views, Scrooge later encounters the ghost of his late business partner who warns Scrooge of three ghosts who will visit him. The ghosts take Scrooge on a journey through his past, present, and future in hopes of transforming his bitterness.

5. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

You may know Rudolph from when you were little. Rudolph is made fun of because he doesn’t fit in like everyone else, simply because of his big, bright, red nose. He finds an elf named Hermey, who has dreamt of being a dentist instead of a toy maker. Hermey and Rudolph ran away from the North Pole and also met a new friend, Yukon Cornelius. They soon arrive on the Island of Misfit Toys. As they arrive, they find other toys who stand out from the rest. When Santa discovers Rudolph’s nose, he guides the sleigh through a terrible snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Then all of a sudden, everyone loved him and the other misfits.

We know there are many more Christmas movies that did not make our list, so comment below on your all-time favorite.

While on Christmas break, grab some hot cocoa and popcorn and watch some of these movies with your friends or family.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays

By: BHS News Staff 

December 12, 2023 

Happy holidays, BHS! We hope you have a long, happy, and prosperous Christmas vacation surrounded by family and friends. 

As we reach the end of the second quarter and first semester, be mindful of how the upcoming midterms will affect your grades going forward. 

Here are a few items to keep in mind before break begins this Friday afternoon. 

First, the Student Council has been selling Candy Cane Grams. They will be available during I.C.E. Block and sold in room 173 and by the middle stairwell. These Candy Cane Grams also come with a message for $1. Feel free to write these messages to your friends, significant others, secret admirers, etc. The last day to buy Candy Cane Grams is TODAY, December 12.

Next and of highest importance, midterms are coming up. Midterms for BLUE days will be tomorrow (December 13) while GOLD midterms will be on Thursday, December 14. Make sure that you are in school on time and prepared for success. For all Winter athletes, the second quarter will affect your eligibility for the rest of the season, so turn in any missing assignments and study for those midterms. 

This Friday is the Students vs. Faculty Basketball game. Be sure to show your school spirit and support the students and staff participating in the game. Mr. Holko is very confident in the staff prevailing this year! 

Seniors, the clock is ticking to order your commencement wear and to submit your photos. Your photos must be submitted in Google Classroom by this Friday, December 15. To submit a yearbook photo, a school photo ID must be on file. In addition, commencement items should be ordered by Winter break to avoid accumulating late fees. For any questions, see Mr. Ross or Mrs. Bir. 

Another reminder for seniors, the FAFSA will open in late December, so keep a lookout for the application date. In the meantime, create an FSA ID so you are ready when it opens. For any questions, see Mr. Ross and Mrs. Bir or schedule an appointment with College Now. 

Lastly, we would like to wish you a final good luck for midterms this week. Our wish is that all of you leave on Friday for break without any academic regret.

Here is your final calendar of events for 2023:  

  • December 13-14: MIDTERMS  
  • December 15: Students vs. Faculty Basketball Game
  • December 16: Post-Prom Breakfast with Santa  
  • December 16-January 2: Winter Break

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

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Hovan

*Intervention Specialist* 

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

December 8, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mr. Christopher Hovan. This is currently year 28 for Mr. Hovan in Brooklyn. Before beginning his career here, he worked in the Kent City Schools for two years. What he enjoys doing in his free time is spending time with his four-year-old granddaughter and playing the drums for a few different bands. A fun fact about him is that he has visited 45 of the 50 states. He loves traveling!

Q: What is the best way to communicate to unmotivated students?

A: “I would say having a good relationship with the students. They are more likely to work for me because I can motivate them and get them to a spot where they can be successful.”

Q: What grade level do you teach?

A: “Third grade.”

Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of being an intervention specialist?

A: “I think seeing how far they have come along the way. Being able to see their growth is something special.”

Q: What is the impact that you hope to have on your students?

A: “I like to have my students feel comfortable coming in to work with me and asking questions. When I am in a normal classroom, I like to make it where I am not just there for special education students; I am there for everyone, so I can fully build a relationship with all the students in the class.”

Q: What is your favorite thing to do around Christmas time?

A: “I try to go to as many special events with my mom, my son, and my granddaughter. We like to go to see lights at the zoo and go to the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. I actually just took my granddaughter this past weekend to see Santa’s house at Crocker Park.”

Q: Are you a person who likes cold weather or a person who enjoys warm weather?

A: “Definitely the Summer! It is the best. I can get out and ride my bike, go swimming, and do all the things you usually cannot do in the Winter.”

Q: Is there a specific movie or show you watch on Christmas?

A: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. I am not sure if that is school appropriate to say, but that is my favorite one to watch.”

[Editor’s Note: It is BY FAR the best Christmas movie!]

Q: Describe yourself using only three words.

A: “Determined, Creative, Caring. Music and creative things have always been a part of my life. I went into teaching because I care about students. I also want to add that my son is adopted. I adopted him because I wanted to give a child who was in foster care a forever home. This must tell you how caring I am.”

Thank you for allowing us to interview you, Mr. Hovan. It was a pleasure getting to know more about you and what you like to do in the Winter. Enjoy your family time and Cousin Eddie!

Hurricanes Tame the Tigers

By: BHS Sports Staff 

December 7, 2023

On Tuesday, the boys basketball team looked to up their early season record to 2-0 as they hosted the Chagrin Falls Tigers. 

The Tigers came in with a record of 0-1, with a loss to Aurora. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes came in 1-0, earning their first victory of the season last Friday against Garrett Morgan, 66-51. 

In the first quarter, Brooklyn started off slow as Chagrin Falls jumped out to an early 7-0 lead. Senior Anthony Pytel had five points, yet Brooklyn still trailed the Tigers 13-7 as the first quarter came to a close.

In the second quarter, the Tigers kept their momentum going as they maintained a slight but consistent lead. However, a big moment came when junior Tyler Cox drained a three-pointer to end the first half, cutting the deficit to just three points, 23-20. 

The Hurricanes stormed out of the locker room and started off hot in the third quarter, taking their first lead of the game. For the rest of the quarter, both teams traded baskets, but the hosts still maintained a one-point lead.

As the fourth quarter started, it was all about swarming defense and timely baskets. The Hurricanes did not let off the pedal and knocked down almost all of their field goals and free throws. It was a four-point game with two minutes to go, but Brooklyn went on a 9-3 run to finish off the 53-44 victory. 

Leading scorers for the Hurricanes were Pytel with 18 points, senior Jaiden Ramos netting 13 points, and fellow senior Santana Sammons chipping in with 12 points.

With the win, the boys improved to 2-0, while dropping Chagrin Falls to 0-2.

Great job, boys!

In other Winter sports, the hockey team plays home tonight at 7:30, facing off against Chagrin Falls.

Additionally, the girls basketball team will travel to Beachwood next Tuesday to face the Bisons, looking to even their record to 2-2.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Miguel Veloz

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

December 6, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Miguel Veloz. Miguel is open-minded, respectful, and honest. One of his favorite hobbies is hanging out with friends, while talking about random things and learning from each other. He also keeps himself busy with his job as a cashier at Walmart and has been a baseball player for four years. 

Q: When you look back at BHS in later years, what will you remember the most?

A: “I’m going to remember all of the relationships that I’ve made, not just with students but also with the staff.”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “My plans after high school are to learn a high income skill like Digital Marketing or Big Ticket Closing, and while I’m learning and working in either two to five years, I will become financially free and travel the world to spread my knowledge and awareness.” 

Q: What was the most meaningful assignment a teacher ever assigned?

A: “I’ve never had a meaningful assignment before.” 🤣

Q: I will never forget…? 

A: “I will never forget my freshman year on the baseball team and winning one game during the entire season.”

Q: What is the worst aspect about being a senior?

A: “The worst thing about being a senior is how fast it goes by.”

Q: If you had a song play every time you walk into a room, what would it be?

A: “‘Runaway’ by Kanye West because it gets me hyped and makes me feel alive.”

Q: Who is your hero?

A: “My hero is my mom because she has made my life the best it could possibly be with all the situations we’ve been in, and I’ll always appreciate how hard she works to provide for us.”

Q: What is your biggest goal this year?

A: “My biggest goal for senior year is to make as many connections with as many people as I can before I graduate.”

Q: Did you have any embarrassing moments in high school that you can laugh about now?

A: “My friend and I got a little too close to each other and kissed, and it got spread throughout the whole school.”

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

A: “Mrs. Sullivan. She has been a part of my whole high school career, and I see her everyday, still. She is the realest teacher I’ve ever had, she makes everyone feel appreciated, and she can always spark a conversation out of someone.”

We hope that you have a wonderful rest of your senior year, Miguel. Good luck with your future plans and with your final baseball season.

December Updates

By: BHS News Staff 

December 5, 2023 

December already? This school year has flown by, so let us get right into what is coming up before Christmas vacation.

Tomorrow, the Choir and Band will be hosting the Brooklyn community for the annual Christmas concert. Please join them in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m. for a performance of your favorite Christmas classics.  

Christmas spirit week? Sign us up! Compete in next week’s spirit week to win the grade-level trophy. 🏆

Are you interested in gaming? If so, the Esports gaming club will be hosting an NBA 2K24 tournament on Monday, December 11, from 3:15-6:00. The final day to sign up for this event is this Thursday. If you have any questions, see Mr. Jones. 

Seniors, the clock is ticking to order your commencement wear and to submit your photos. Your photos must be submitted to Google Classroom by December 15 to be considered for the yearbook; if no photo is submitted, your student ID photo will be used. Also, commencement orders should be submitted by the start of Winter break to avoid late fees. For any questions, see Mr. Ross or Mrs. Bir.  

Attention all students: Midterms will be taken Wednesday, December 13 through Thursday, December 14. On Wednesday, the midterm schedule will be for BLUE days, blocks 1-4. On Thursday, the midterms will be for GOLD days, blocks 1-4. The makeup day for any missed midterms is on Friday, December 15. 

Next, those selected for the student team for the Faculty vs. Student basketball game next Friday will be announced tomorrow. Make sure to wish them good luck and show support for their effort. The game will be held on Friday, December 15 around 2:30. Current Vegas odds have the faculty favored to win big!

Do you need community service hours? The Post-Prom Committee still needs volunteers for Breakfast with Santa on December 16. Sign-ups are in Google Classroom, via forms. If you have any questions, see Mrs. Holko.

Here is the upcoming calendar of events:  

  • December 6: Faculty vs. Student Basketball Game Announcement 
  • December 6: Christmas Concert & Band Showcase
  • December 11: NBA 2K24 Tournament 
  • December 13-14: MIDTERMS  
  • December 15: Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game
  • December 16: Post-Prom Breakfast with Santa  
  • December 18: Winter Break Begins 

Let’s finish this semester strong, Hurricanes!

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

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Dillinger

*Classroom Assistant*

By: BHS Staff Profiles 

December 1, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Amy Dillinger. This is currently her third year as a classroom assistant in the Brooklyn City School District. Before working in Brooklyn, Mrs. Dillinger worked for twelve years in the Lorain City Schools as an Instructional Center Paraprofessional. What she loves doing in her free time is spending time with her family and her pets. An interesting fact about her is that she is 100 percent a Cleveland Browns fan. She will tailgate in any weather and support her favorite team. Go Browns and beat the Steelers! 

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: “What I like most about my job is my students. They are amazing, and they brighten my day. I am very lucky to be able to work with an amazing group of children.”

Q: Are there any challenges that you face as a classroom assistant? 

A: “My classroom is very special and unique. I work with students who learn and communicate differently. I think the challenge that I come into contact with the most is learning about each student. Learning what they need and adjusting myself to help them, to understand them, and assisting them to be the best they can be.”

Q: What does a typical day look like for you?

A: “A typical day for me involves going to Science, Art, and Band all before lunch. Then after lunch, I go to Band again, followed by ELA and Math.”

Q: If you could choose any other job to have, what would it be?

A: “If I could choose any other job, it would be to own a Pet Daycare. I love animals.”

Q: What is your favorite food to eat in the Winter?

A: “My favorite food to eat in the Winter is stuffed acorn squash.”

Q: What is your favorite Winter activity?

A: “I bake a lot in the Winter. I love making Christmas cookies.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “My biggest pet peeve is pineapple on pizza.”

Q: Would you rather have snow or rain all year?

A: “I would prefer snow all year. I do not like the rain.”

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to let us interview you. It was a pleasure to learn more about you and what it is like to be a classroom assistant. We hope that you can make your Christmas cookies and be warm all Winter long. By the way, we like cookies! 😂

Preview: Bowling 

By: BHS Sports Staff

November 30, 2023

Welcome back from Thanksgiving break, Hurricane Nation. Now that December arrives tomorrow, Winter sports are in full swing.

The next sport to preview is bowling. 

Last season, the bowling team compiled a record of 4-7. Last year’s team lost a few seniors, but this year’s squad has four returning varsity bowlers. 

Coach Steven Prusak went in-depth on how he sees this season playing out. 

“We have a varsity and a junior varsity team this year. With this being only the second year, it’s new to everyone. We have four returning varsity players from last year. So, we will be bowling with 12 other high schools, and some of these high schools have been bowling for years. With Brooklyn being new, we will do the best that we can do.” 

Coach Prusak has some bowlers that have the ability to make some noise this year. 

“Sophomores Adam Cowper, Ryan Hilcu, and Masen Macon, along with junior Jayden Schultz are capable of bowling above their average. Our anchorman Cowper has a 299-pin game under his belt and is dying to hit that perfect 300. Our goal is to go out every week and do our best.”

BHS is fortunate to have a bowling team, hard working coaches who guide and lead, and players who buy in and have the passion for the sport and competition.

We will be following them closely and wish them the best of luck in their season ahead.

In other Winter sports, last Monday, the girls varsity basketball team defeated Garrett Morgan on the road 59-40 as Coach Bryce Brown earned his first victory as head coach. Congratulations, Coach Brown and Lady Hurricanes! 

The hockey team will play their first home game tonight against Mayfield at 7:30. Hockey home games take place at the Brooklyn Recreation Center, so come out and support our skaters. 

Finally, the boys varsity basketball team will open up their season tomorrow night at home against Garrett Morgan. Tip-off is at 6:45. Good luck, boys!

Go Canes! 

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

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! 🦃🔥🚒

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