As the school year for seniors begins to close, students in the Authentic Science Research (ASR) program also face their final days as high school research students. The last competition of the year is the infamous virtual Tri-County Science & Technology Fair. For this competition, students must submit a video of their presentation, a copy of their poster, along with a multitude of essay questions that students receive only mere days before the deadline. Despite the seemingly overwhelming amount of preparation involved, Byram Hills ASR once again had a great performance! 

Awards were announced through a YouTube livestream on the morning of Saturday, April 26th. For students who decided to sleep through the awards, Mrs. Greenwald generously watched herself and even prepared a highlights list for all students who were recognized. Third place awards went to Andrew Levy, Maya Licznerski, and Cooper Lipton; second place to Max Charney, Katherine Dyer, Summer Feng, Ariana Foreman, Aaron Stein, and Adrianna Zawojek; and first place awards to Chloe Kohl, Sebastian Lashmet, and Kayleigh McLaughlin. Our seniors (and impressive junior!) won awards in various categories, ranging from experimental psychology to earth/space science and even math/computer science! 

Beyond the traditional placement, two ASR students received some of the highest scores in the fair, giving them the opportunity to present at the New York State Science Congress in June. Andrew Levy, who won third place in medicine for his cancer research, is an alternate for this competition. Sebastian Lashmet, who won first place in math/computer science, was selected as one of four students to compete upstate in June. Sebastian will travel to Syracuse, where he will present his study, which consisted of coding a computer program that could teach itself card games. The ASR community has no doubt that he will continue to crush his presentation upstate!

After an exciting year of hard work and competitions, seniors feel bittersweet about ending their careers as ASR students. Addison Rappaport explains that “ASR has truly felt like a family.” Senior Arjun Nair feels similarly, reflecting that he’s “grateful for the wonderful teachers,” citing that the program has taught him “critical skills ranging from simple interactions to complex presentational skills.” 

As an ASR senior myself, I am also a bit sad to see my journey come to an end. This week, I will have my last “sad circle,” a tradition in which classes say farewell to their seniors by sitting in a circle and answering both silly and thought-provoking questions, a way to reflect on the year and share memories with classmates. In addition to being a member of the ASR community, I am also honored to have been able to write about the amazing research done by so many of my talented peers. Though my time as an ASR journalist may be over, I hope another writer will pick up where I leave off. To underclassmen who are passionate about science, I officially pass you the baton.

Byram’s new library premiered just in time for the Authentic Science Research (ASR) program’s annual senior showcase. Here, seniors (and some exceptional juniors!) had the opportunity to present their research to the Byram Hills community in preparation for the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF) on Saturday, March 15th. On behalf of the seniors in ASR, I express our gratitude to all of those who stopped by to listen to some of our poster presentations.

After weeks of intense preparation (and some struggles setting up posters…hopefully that wasn’t just me!), the WESEF competitors made their way down to Somers Middle and High School to share their work with the judges. Categories spanned all fields of science, ranging from behavior, computer science, medicine and health, and neuroscience, to name a few. Senior Jordyn Wolf explains “It was a great learning experience. I liked meeting new people and seeing a lot of different presentations. It was fun to interact with people I never would have met otherwise.” Senior Gabe Goldman also commented on his time at WESEF: “Although a mentally (and sometimes physically) grueling day, WESEF is one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school career, really putting the bow on my 3-year research journey. I think it is so amazing to see the broad range of research topics that other students focused on.” Though a competition, ASR students never lose sight of the true rewards of research, one being the opportunity to connect with all of the other young scientists throughout Westchester. Rumor has it that there may have been some WESEF romances in the making! 

Following the judging, 22 Byram Hills students were recognized for their research and invited to attend the WESEF award ceremony on Thursday, March 20th. To start off the night, Julia Mahairas won the American Psychological Association Award for her work with concussions and neurocognitive function. Cooper Lipton won the Ricoh Sustainable Development Award, Katherine Dyer received the United States Air Force Award, and both Owen Jacobs and Andrew Levy won $25 for the Innovations in Biological Science Research Award. Byram Hills racked up more prizes when Angelina Nie and Aaron Stein each won $50 for the BASF Expanding Knowledge in Science Award and the Visionary Engineering Award, respectively. 

As the night came to a close, 16 students placed, receiving “Best in Category” awards. Gabriel Goldman, Chloe Kohl, Kayleigh McLaughlin, and Addison Rappaport earned fourth place; Devyn Eder, Summer Fang, Ariana Foreman, Sebastian Lashmet, Jordyn Wolf, and Adrianna Zawojek came in third place; Lindsey Coady and Hailey Sirikin were our second place winners; and Max Charney, Keira Eckhardt, Ella Saltstein, and Aaron Stein took home first place medals! 

Each year, the top 20 overall scoring students are selected to compete at the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which will be held in Columbus, Ohio this May. Our very own Ella Saltstein earned a spot at ISEF where she will present her research regarding hydrocephalus -- a condition where there is excess liquid in the brain -- and compete for even more prizes. We wish Ella the best of luck at ISEF and know that she will continue to crush her presentations! 

WESEF marks the beginning of the end of Science Research for ASR seniors. Reflecting on her time in ASR, senior Addison Rappaport explains that she “loves ASR due to the amazing friends and teachers,” commenting that the “science research community truly does feel like a family.” Senior Aaron Stein feels similarly, stating that “WESEF was a satisfying conclusion to a long three-year journey.” As a science research senior myself, I would agree that having the opportunity to share my work, in addition to learning from so many of my peers, was the absolute best conclusion to ASR I could have asked for.

I have been writing about our Authentic Science Research (ASR) program since my sophomore year, and it’s truly a different experience as a senior. As a sophomore and junior, I watched in awe as seniors presented their incredible studies, explaining difficult scientific concepts and using jargon I had never heard. It was hard to believe that I would one day be in their shoes. 

Alas, it is now January of my senior year, and I have submitted to the Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), along with the rest of my ASR classmates. I can attest from my own experience that writing a 20-page research paper truly is a grueling process, a sentiment that resonates with some other ASR seniors. Senior Aaron Stein, who performed a study relating to the efficacy of tennis racquets, explains that “It sucked writing the paper, but felt good to be done.” Regeneron STS typically receives about 2,000 applications from seniors across the country. In early January, 300 students will be selected as Top Scholars (semifinalists), in which 40 will be granted the “Finalist” title. 

Though the editing process was taxing, there is no better feeling than submitting your paper and reflecting on all of the hard work that has led to this culminating moment. We joined as mere sophomores, with only a faint idea of a topic to study. We later read dozens of journal articles, wrote our 50-page review guides, and eventually began our own independent research. Students traveled to labs throughout the country (and some internationally!) while others performed novel projects simply from their bedrooms. Senior Jordyn Wolf, who studied mitochondrial disease, explains that being at the lab “was a really amazing experience. I loved meeting new people and having the opportunity to perform hands-on laboratory experiments.” 

Beyond Regeneron, ASR seniors have also been able to present at conferences to share their work with the greater scientific community. For example, Senior Andrew Levy presented his project at a conference for cancer research in California, reflecting that “It was great to be among experts in the field and be able to interact with them. They asked questions, and I was actually able to answer them, which was incredible.” A few other ASR students presented at the International Young Researchers’ Conference in New York City with similar reflections. Senior Bella Pantusa, who studied a type of cancer known as mesothelioma, explains that she “loved having the opportunity to share my work and practice public speaking.” 

Though the competitions and presentations are great, the best part of ASR is truly the community. I am so grateful to the ASR teachers—Mrs. Greenwald, Dr. Matthew, Mrs. Salomone, and Mrs. Santini—for all of their dedication to our studies. I know for certain that I never would have been able to complete my project without their support. I would also like to extend my gratitude to my classmates - whether it be reviewing project titles, trying to cut abstracts to an insanely short character limit, or even helping to pick out PowerPoint themes, I love the collaboration that ASR promotes. Period 7, 2023, Period 6, 2024, and now Period 1, 2025 will always be remembered.

Everybody’s raving about the cookies that leave a delectable aroma throughout the hallways. That’s right - people are lining up by Room 317 to buy new cookies every Friday! As a weekly tradition, different varieties of cookies are baked and advertised around the school on posters. Whether it’s between classes or during lunch, you can always tell when the cookies have been freshly baked by the sight of crowded people or the lingering sweet smell of vanilla. 

Each week, the type of cookie is switched up to keep customers satisfied and engaged. Previous options include M&M, oreo, and chocolate chip. Rumor has it that countless more are to come. Regardless of the flavor, every customer leaves happy with a tasty treat to share with their friends. Evidently, Maeve Rippy shares, “these cookies are so good! Definitely coming back for more!”

Posters are hung up around the school, designed to capture your interest with realistic and mouthwatering pictures of the cookies made that week, with prices included on the posters. These posters prepare you for the anticipated cookies finally available to you at the end of the week. 

To thank the loyal customers, when you buy your first cookie, you are offered a free loyalty card. With this card, for every eight cookies you buy, you have the chance to receive one free cookie. This way, supporters are rewarded for their constant return and are encouraged to continue coming back.

Cookie sales are absolutely skyrocketing, and for a great cause! Each cookie funds a life-changing journey to the amazing Disney World! When you buy a cookie to fulfill your cravings, do so feeling great about where your money is going. Everyone wins! Now, follow the trail of warm sugar all the way to Room 317!

In today’s advanced academic world, students are constantly seeking new ways to enhance their learning experience and improve their work. We are living in a pivotal moment in history, as one of the first generations to have access to ChatGPT, a powerful AI tool designed to assist with everything from homework to brainstorming ideas. While we often hear warnings in school about the potential risks of using ChatGPT and how it might impact our integrity, it’s important to also consider how it can help us grow as students. Although this powerful AI is slowly being integrated into different classes, we should be taking full advantage of its capabilities.

When it comes to English classes, ChatGPT is often viewed as a threat, raising concerns that students might rely on the AI to complete their work. This fear can lead students to shy away from using AI tools altogether. However, there are many ways ChatGPT can actually enhance students’ writing skills without doing the work. It can be used to edit grammar and improve writing by pointing out areas that need work. It can also help with outlining essays, enabling students to create more organized pieces. In terms of reading, ChatGPT can generate customized quizzes to help students prepare for reading assessments and work through areas they find challenging. 

In nearly every other class, ChatGPT can help students study and better understand the material. By simply typing in the subject and unit you’re working on, ChatGPT can create a study guide, including key questions and terms for students to review. Whether you’re in a math class and need help working through problems, or in history class struggling to understand timelines, ChatGPT can be a valuable tool to support your learning.

While ChatGPT raises concerns about academic integrity, it’s important to recognize the value it offers when used responsibly. This tool can support students in refining their writing, creating study guides, and understanding challenging material. However, it’s important to remember that ChatGPT doesn’t replace actual learning. Instead, it’s a resource to enhance students’ writing and understanding rather than a shortcut. True learning comes from engaging with the material, thinking critically, and putting in the work. By using ChatGPT as a supplement to your studies, you can develop stronger skills and become a more independent learner, all while maintaining academic integrity.

The Varley Players have been a vital element of the Byram Hills community for years. They have produced countless productions that have amazed their audiences time and time again. However, this year’s production of Mamma Mia stands out. Through the play’s vibrant sets and colors, fun songs and dances, and overall uplifting spirit, Mamma Mia has cemented itself as a Varley Players hit. 

There have been numerous audience members who have the same reviews as me. For example, Chloe Kohl (11), shares, “I was super impressed with the whole performance! The cast was extremely talented, and I loved all of the songs.” Moreover, Addy Rappaport (11), says, “It was great! The cast was amazing! Everyone was super talented and accomplished! Best show at Byram yet!”

But don’t be fooled…creating this spectacular musical was not easy. The cast spent countless hours rehearsing each number and the crew worked tirelessly to construct the eye-catching sets. For example, Senior Morgan Hecht, who played the lead Sophie, shares, “the rehearsals could be very long and tiring; however, it was all worth it in the end. This was one of my favorite musicals that I have ever performed in, and was a great way to end my time with the Varley Players.” Additionally, Senior Kiki Gavriil, who was ensemble leader explains, “everyone worked so hard preparing for the performance, and it came out better than I could have imagined. I’m so grateful for my time as a Varley player.”

Evidently, Mamma Mia was a hit. It was a great experience for the audience members, but also for the performers and crew members who put so much time and effort into creating an amazing show. I look forward to seeing future Varley Players’ performances!

You may have spotted Ms. Sprielli in the hallway or heard her voice over the loudspeaker, yet you haven’t had the chance to introduce yourself. It turns out that you may have a lot in common with Ms. Spirelli! She loves to go scuba diving, biking, and hiking. She also loves doing coral reef restoration! She has traveled all over the world for scuba diving and coral reef restoration. She has traveled to places such as the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Thailand, and Belize. Ms. Spirelli also has a daughter, son, and two Boxers that each weigh close to eighty pounds!

Ms. Spirelli comes from a family of educators. Her husband is a teacher, and her twin brother is a college professor. Prior to her role as our assistant principal, Ms. Spirelli was a middle school and high school science teacher. She taught biology, forensics, anatomy, and genetics! She gathered many skills from her time as science teacher that prepared her for the important role of assistant pirncipal. These skills include scheduling, staying organized, and staying objective

Although her time at Byram Hills has been short, Ms. Spirelli is honored to be here. She is honored to be here because of the “passion that the school district has and the students’ hard work in their academics.” She believes that Byram Hills is passionate because students are passionate about learning and teachers are passionate about teaching. To her, everybody “shows passion for what they do in their role.” Besides learning, students at Byram Hills are also passionate about sports, dance, music, etc. 

As our assistant principal, Ms. Spirelli is focused on helping students reach their full potential. She enjoys getting to know students and helping them develop into leaders. She believes that it is a “privilege to be a part of student’s lives” and to help them through high school. 

In the end, Ms. Spirelli is dedicated to making Byram Hills the best learning community it can be. This ongoing year, Ms. Spirelli has put an emphasis on being a great listener, learner, and supporter in order to best serve the students and faculty.  She appreciates that the community’s investment in learning allows Byram Hills to be what it is today. Ms. Spirelli’s dedication to helping students succeed is meritorious, and we are very fortunate to have her as our assistant principal. She is always open for students to come by and say hello.