January 2023

OP-ED: Should The Use of Plastic be Banned?

By Alliah Mendoza

January 23, 2024

Do you know that Rwanda became the world's first 'plastic-free' nation, 10 years after it introduced a ban on all plastic bags and plastic packaging, and anyone who is caught with a plastic item will be sentenced to jail for 6 months? According to Linkedin, “Approximately 593,043,485 pounds of plastic pollution float on the ocean's surface in year 2023”. Through the years plastic pollution has become a bigger and bigger problem. 

Unlike other materials, plastic does not biodegrade. It means that plastic waste can take up to 1,000 years before it breaks down. That also means that before one plastic even breaks down, millions of plastic pieces are added in our environment. 

Worsening climate change, endangering marine wildlife, and polluting ground water that may cause health problems are some of the effects of plastic pollution. “Every year, 11 million metric tons of plastics enter our ocean on top of the estimated 200 million metric tons that currently circulate our marine environments”, states “Ocean Conservancy”. 

Marine life is the most affected by plastic pollution. Thousands of seabirds and turtles are killed and their natural habitat are being destroyed. “100 million marine animals die each year from plastic waste alone. 100,000 marine animals die from getting entangled in plastic yearly” (“100+ Ocean Pollution Statistics & Facts 2023”). 

Plastic has become part of our daily lives, but we never look at the many consequence that it may cause to our marine life and how it greatly affects our environment. It also contributes to climate change, which is one of the major problems we face.

It is true that plastic has become one of the big issues we are facing today, because it doesn’t just affect marine life, but also human beings. According to the study by “Earth Day,” “microplastics significantly damage cells in the human body, leading to serious health effects, including cancers, lung disease, and birth defects.” Plastic waste does not only affect our health, but it can also affect our livelihoods.

As aforementioned, a lot of marine animals die, which can affect food production capabilities. Because of the excessive use of plastic, not only do our environment and animals take the consequences, but so do we who created it.

Considering these harmful effects, banning the use of plastic would be a great help in our environment, but it’s also hard to imagine the world without it. I believe that proper awareness of plastic use and the strict ban of plastic bags will help to reduce and scale down the effect of plastic pollution.

Some of the actions we can do to lessen our use of plastic in daily life are bringing our own grocery bags instead of using plastic bags that are offered in the store.; recycle and separate recyclable materials, and throw it in right trash can; instead of buying water bottles that are single-use, bring your own water bottle; stop littering; and spread awareness about plastic.

OP-ED: Can We Benefit From Heartbreak?

By Amber Kane

January 12, 2024

Oftentimes in high school, students will find themselves infatuated with and wrapped up in a romantic relationship with another person, even including their first love. Everyone wants to be loved, but is dating worth the pain that could sometimes come along with it? From my perspective and many other students, yes, it is. 

Regardless of age, relationships are great ways to get to know someone on a deeper level, learn lessons, and find a voice for yourself. Love has both petals and thorns, but with the proper level of maturity and patience, teenage love can bloom.

According to ACT for Youth, it is a fact that 63% of high school students have gone on a date before the time they reach their graduation. Along with this, ACT’s studies have shown that high schoolers who are 16 years old on average have relationships that last six months, and 17-18 year olds have relationships that last up to or more than one year. 

Students from Monterey High shared their opinions on the subject anonymously, and of the ones that participated, most would agree that high school dating is valuable and part of life.

One student anonymously shared their belief that you can have “new experiences and discover what you want if you’re ready before you graduate.” Similarly, many other students agreed that high school dating can help you establish your likes and dislikes.

Among all the poll takers, many of them gave a similar piece of advice: communication. Communication is the most important thing that a relationship can have, especially at a young age. If you don’t communicate, how will your partner know what you want?

From personal experience, communication is a make or break in a relationship. If there is an issue, it must be addressed. I also know what it’s like to be scared to talk to your partner about something, but in the long run, it will help and not hurt. 

However, it is no secret that love often comes with an ugly side: jealousy, attachment, and heartbreak. 

Students shared their experiences with love as well. Majority of the poll takers shared that they had been heartbroken, and at least 50% would say that they had experienced being in love.

After undergoing a breakup myself, I can say that it’s important to remember that you aren’t in this alone. Whether your former partner may be grieving the loss of you, a friend may be feeling the same way, or an adult may understand your pain. Broken hearts are all around us, but it may be hard to recognize.

Although heartbreak and hardship are common in young love, there is definitely a beauty that it brings. I, and many others, can look back on young relationships and appreciate the lessons and experiences they brought. However, great things never come without a challenge. 

At the end of the day, dating is not for everyone and it is inevitably your choice to do so. But with that choice, be mature, be smart, and don’t forget, “There’s always more fish in the sea,” (anonymous Toreador).

Girls Varsity Wrestling Having Success Through End of Season

By Montana Tiffany

January 23, 2024

As the winter season comes to a close, the Varsity Girls Wrestling team has exceeded many expectations, but hopes to reach even farther. The team has placed high in all of their tournaments this year, even placing first at their most recent tournament in Santa Cruz on January 13th. 

“The season has been going great. A lot of teamwork has been put into it and the girls are doing amazing,” said sophomore Marina Gonzales. Wrestling is an integral part of Monterey High’s sports culture, and the sport has created a bond between many of its members. 

“The team is very close; we almost have a family bond,” said sophomore Jozy Juarez. “I think our teamwork has added to our success.” Their teamwork and their encouragement for one another has led them to do very well as a team, but some wrestlers are reaching even farther in terms of their personal success.

Staff of the Month: Ms. Schupp

By Grace Kitchens

January 18th, 2024

The January staff of the month is Ms. Schupp. Between teaching in the science department, and coaching track and cross country, she is a well-known face at Monterey High School. 

Ms. Schupp started teaching in 2020 during the pandemic. She said, “I wanted to have more of an impact on students than I did before; I was teaching at an outdoor school which was three times a week, but I wanted to know my students longer!” 

She decided to work here at Monterey High School due to the strong community. “I feel like MHS has the best community amongst the students and staff, and I just knew I wanted to be part of the community here! It brings together all parts of the bay.”

Some of the things she loves about Monterey High School are “the opportunities; there is something for everyone, whether that is sports, clubs, academies, etc. And if you can't find something that fits your needs, you are able to create your own club! I also love my coworkers- the science team is the best!”

Biology and Oceanography Marine Science are the classes that Ms. Schupp teaches. She said, “I love biology, and my passion is oceans. It brings me joy to help students find the excitement and wonder in the outdoor world.”

OP-ED: Dealing With Bullies

By Ryan Spencer

January 19th, 2024

Teachers at Monterey High face the daily problem of problematic students; from bullying to uncooperativeness, the teachers who struggle to help these students out have their own unique way of doing what needs to be done. Mr. John Jenkins, a world history teacher, has an effective way of dealing with problematic students that is fair, and more teachers should try to implement this as well. He is generous to these students as he is aware of how problematic students have problems of their own. He is dedicated to each student and tries to improve the problematic students he has.

Mr. Jenkins' world history classroom is known for being a fair and kind environment to all students who put in the effort in his class. If he notices someone lagging behind, maybe because of something personal, he goes out of his way daily to check up on them and guide them back to being a diligent student. When the problematic student starts bullying, that is when he’ll get their parents, class monitors, or other figures involved, because above all else he wants his classroom to be safe.

Mr. Jenkins listens to and checks in on students who seem to be upset or struggling with something. Sometimes all students need is a short break or a talk, and he tries his best to help these students. If a student is caught bullying another student, he will warn the students not to do it again. There are many options that he has to prevent further bullying such as seat changes, contacting parents, or getting campus monitors to remove students; however, he uses some of the more harsh methods sparingly.

Campus monitors, staff, and faculty have to deal with problematic students too, so it is in everyone’s interest, particularly the students’, to improve themselves. Some don’t do school work, and some are against the teachers for whatever reason. Problematic students can also bully other students by continuously bothering them and disturbing them while they are working on an assignment.. 

There are also those who argue that there is too much of a distraction when problematic students disrupt students' learning and should be switched to a new class. Remi Morgan (´25) believes that being a bully on school campus shouldn’t be tolerated, as everyone should “have equal respect and a safe classroom space.” Such actions should be taken to ensure safety for all students, and to create a fun, interactive learning environment.

Those like Mr. Jenkins argue that listening to students’ problems will help students calm down when stressed, and that improves learning; this method will give problematic students a fair shot. No one way of taking care of problematic students is inherently wrong, but Mr. Jenkins’ method of taking his time with students is more effective. However, bullying will not be tolerated: “I deal with bullies firmly and directly, referring to admin when needed.”

Mr. Jenkins is a kind teacher who puts his students’ well being first and foremost. His methods are fair and understandable. He understands that problematic students can be helped. Overall, more teachers should treat their students, even the more problematic ones, like how Mr. Jenkins does.

UC Merced: MAOS Sophomores

By Amber Kane

February 6, 2024

On February 6th, MAOS Sophomores met bright and early by the tennis courts to hop on a bus and travel to UC Merced. They were ready for a day of friends and college tour fun.

A group of MAOS students traveled together to UC Merced, and arrived at roughly 9 AM after over two hours of travel. They traveled in a Discovery Bus and watched movies in style on their journey up. For Elijah Kortman and Charles Lassen (‘26), their movie selection left them sick. They decided to finish the film Get Out, a modern thriller movie. This movie left Kortman “trippin’” and his “vision started to blur.” Aside from the strange events on their travels, both MAOS Sophomores stated that the campus was in the middle of nowhere. “There was this vulture on a tree, and that sums up Merced,” said Kortman.

The tour guides for the group were quite nice, and it was even one of their birthdays. The campus itself was reported to be very clean and presentable, but it gave a more high-school feel. Kortman compared it to Berkeley, stating that Berkeley felt like college, but Merced felt like a high school.

Lassen learned that UC Merced is the only UC to have been built in the 21st Century, speculating that this may have something to do with its “high school vibe.”

Along with Lassen and Kortman, Lylla Pantoja (‘26) really enjoyed the food: “I had this amazing slice of cake–it was the best.” Lassen and Kortman enjoyed Indian curry for their lunch. Some of their other friends even took advantage of the all-you-can-eat cafeteria by enjoying six plates of food.

In addition to the food court, Pantoja was very excited about the cows that surrounded the campus. She believed that this was “the coolest part.”

The UC Merced was a great trip, and MAOS Sophomores look forward to their next journey in the academy!

Artist of the Month: Senior, Elizabeth Jimenez

By Kiarra Randall

January 12th, 2024

This month, we will be spotlighting artist, Elizabeth Jimenez (‘24) whose art depicts who she is, what she loves, and what goes on in the world. Her favorite medium is Digital Illustration where she uses ProCreate to make beautiful art pieces. Each of her pieces evokes emotion and creativity. Elizabeth has been into art since she can remember as she started her art journey with drawing. 

“My favorite medium is Digital Illustration. I’ve been drawing my whole life, but didn't start digital art until I had a Chromebook in the 5th grade,” said Elizabeth. 

Elizabeth's art is inspired by many things that matter to her whether it relates to her or others around her, her art always provokes meaning. She’s been influenced by many art communities especially online. 

“Most of my art is inspired by things that make me happy, like the ocean, or things that I feel passionately about like, global issues or sexism. I think I’ve been influenced by the general art community like through videos that I just see on TikTok or Instagram, or from movies.”. 

While Elizabeth enjoys creating Digital Illustrations she wants to eventually oil paint since she usually does most of her art on her iPad. She would like to create something physical where the eye can see the detail she puts into her work.

Resolutions For The New Year

By Scarlett King

January 20th, 2024

New year festivities begin with a variety of things, at various times. Many people come up with resolutions and goals for themselves. Even if one doesn't say so verbally or write a list like others, they may subconsciously have things they want to achieve. Oftentimes, however, people fail to see their goals through. Common resolutions include getting fit, taking up a new pass-time, or forming better connections with those around oneself.

While resolutions are easy to set, they are harder to realize. Many different factors can get in the way of those goals. William Davis (‘27) set goals for the new year as many do. “For my New Year's resolution, I would like to get much better studying habits due to the lack of A's in my grades. So far I'm studying much more than I did last year, so that's good. For exercise I would like to run at least one time a week; not including PE of course.”

Another student, Arianna Diaz (‘27), commented, “I usually just try to enjoy my life everyday doing absolutely nothing; well, healthy dieting.” She then detailed the statement by adding, “Like not freaking eating spicy chips every freaking second of my life and going outside in the backyard once in a while.” Her last additions to the list involved socializing more with family members, as well as “being more creative.” 

While Diaz might have possessed the enthusiasm, she had little confidence in said resolutions. In terms of following her goals, she said, “Honestly probably not, I mean, sometimes.” Her response contrasted Davis’s in that she had yet to take substantial steps to improve and reach her goals. Between the two, only one had begun to work towards their resolutions. 

While Davis and Diaz had similar resolutions in mind, the difference between the two was in their course of action. Davis set accomplishable goals to reach that were specific and set a date to start, whereas Diaz had only listed fairly broad things that she wanted to address. Perhaps these are things that should be taken into account in order to see a larger amount of change.

BOOK REVIEW: The Sirens of Titan, A Look into the Meaning of Life

By Montana Tiffany

February 6 2024

While an author can write hundreds of books before establishing themselves as a popular figure in American literature, Kurt Vonnegut’s second published novel, 1959’s The Sirens of Titan, granted him much recognition early into his writing career. 

The novel begins with the character Winston Niles Rumfoord and his dog Kazak, who, after accidentally flying into a chrono-synclastic infundibulum–a wormhole in space and time—materialize in different spots across the vast universe.

One of the places in which they materialize is Rumfoord’s home in Newport, Rhode Island, which he returns to for an hour, once every 59 days. “But at least, as a consolation, he now knows everything that has ever happened or that will ever happen,” reads the book's blurb. 

While Rumfoord may begin the book, it is Malachi Constant who is the real star of it. Constant, the heir to his father’s fortune, which makes him richest man on Earth, is requested to attend one of Rumfoord’s materializations.

Constant receives staggering predictions about his future and the ways in which it intertwines with Beatrice Rumfoord, Winston Niles Rumfoord’s wife. 

These predictions cause Malachi to go, for lack of a better word, crazy. Constant chooses to sabotage any future relationship between Beatrice and himself, as well as blow the entirety of his fortune instead of accepting his destiny.

However he can’t escape Rumfoord predictions, and his life is swept into the accurate destiny which was bestowed upon him.

Throughout the novel, Vonnegut is very apparent about the themes of The Sirens of Titan. These themes are similar to those in Vonnegut’s most famous book, Slaughterhouse-Five.

The central theme is signaled within the opening lines of the book, “Everyone now knows how to find the meaning of life within himself” (1). The overlining theme of the meaning of life is underlined by one more significant theme: free will, or perhaps anti-free-will.  

No matter how much characters attempt to rid themselves of their own destiny, it always catches up to them. It is largely telling that, without revealing too much, an army is controlled entirely by mind controlling devices. Constant claims, “I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all” (233).

AMP Field Trip to SFMoMA

By Xaria Cisneros

January 24, 2023

On January 23, the AMP academy at Monterey High School went on their inspiring field trip to San Francisco to visit the Modern Museum of Art (MoMA) and spend a relaxing day away from school. 

The group of students hopped on their bus at 8:30 on the dot and headed straight to the busy city. Although AMP is very well known for their exhilarating field trips, the journey to MoMA has got to be one of the most highly anticipated. The students who sign up always look forward to it. Plus, who wouldn’t want to take a trip to a beautiful museum and visit one of the most famous cities in California?

Every student had a different experience on the trip. “My experience on the SFMoMA trip was so fun. We all got to explore the Yerba Buena Gardens and we got to take a self-led tour once we got to the museum. I went to many exhibitions and also went to an immersive art exhibition as well,” Ruby Bennett (‘25) stated. Even though Bennett has been on a couple of these field trips, every time is a new experience and there’s always new things to explore.

Because there’s new things to explore at SFMoMA, and art exhibits within the museum are constantly changing, new artists are given the opportunity to showcase their work to the public.

“I was looking forward to seeing the Wolfgang Tillmans photography. He took a photo of Frank Ocean for his album ‘Blonde’ which was really cool, and I saw Yayoi Kusama’s immersive art,” Bennett shared.

One of the great benefits of AMP field trips is that it’s free, so students on the trip did not have to pay for their tickets to get into MoMA. Seeing the artwork under these circumstances is something that students in AMP are very grateful for. 

Bennett stated, “The experience consisted of two separate rooms inspired by dots and space. We were given two minutes in each room and being able to see them for free was a really great experience.”

Along with the students that attend the SFMoMA field trips, there are also a handful of teachers dedicated to going on all AMP field trips. Mrs. Tonkin, the digital arts teacher at Monterey High School, had an excellent time in San Francisco.

“It was so fun, we actually got to explore the shopping mall across the street for the first hour and also have lunch, which was really fun. Going inside MoMA was like the frosting on the cake,” Mrs. Tonkin said.

It’s nice to get out of school for a day, and even Tonkin feels like that as a teacher: “It’s so cool to be with the kids all day. I just love the time you get to talk to the students. There’s no school bells ringing, you’re in a beautiful place, you’re exploring, and everyone just sort of has a fresh, fun attitude.”.

Both students and teachers are very grateful to be able to have the opportunity to go on these amazing field trips. Not only can it be a fun day, it can also be an experience to view the real world, and in this case, real art. 

MAOS Field Trip: Juniors to UCSC

By Daphne DeCarlo & Sienna Grant

January 13, 2024

On January 10th, 2024, MAOS juniors took a field trip to the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) campus. Students were given a tour of the campus by two UCSC students, giving them an inside look at the UCSC campus and helping them know whether or not UCSC is a good fit for them.

The Wolves

By Harlow Gil and Sophia Ruttschow

January 5, 2024

We Are The Wolves! Monterey High School Players presents a new dramatic-comedy show centering a girls indoor soccer team, and is student directed by senior Elizabeth Jimenez. The show features 9 girls who navigate the ups and downs of their world and social lives from the warm up circle of their soccer field.

The characters are identified almost exclusively by their jersey numbers, the cast list referring to them as #00 (Willow Coté, ‘26), #8 (Ari Randazzo, ‘26), #11 (Lena Gibbs, ‘27), #2 (Madelyn Barroso, ‘25), #25 (Sophia Ruttschow, ‘26),  #14 (Ari Martinez, ‘25), #7 (Soledad Quevedo, ’24), #13 (Clay Bustoz, ‘26), and #46 (Audrey Riggin, ‘24). The show also includes an impressive monologue role referred to as the Soccer Mom (Samuel Smith ‘25)

“This experience has been phenomenal, to be able to have freedom with my character and bond with such a close cast has been so amazing.” Audrey Riggen (‘24) agrees this show has a smaller cast than most done at Monterey High, and the cast has gotten pretty tight knit. 

“It's the best show I’ve ever done, Lizzy’s so professional, the script is amazing, I love my character and I love everyone in the show,” raves Ari Randazzo (‘26). Madelyn Barosso agrees that “it’s been so fun and I feel like I’ve been improving so much with my acting