Search Results

By: Craig McPherson A 2024 Toyota Camry in a vibrant reservoir blue (Credit : 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE Nightshade Edition - Kelley Blue Book). In the world of automobiles, not many brands are beloved for quite the same reasons as Toyota. The Japanese auto brand is renowned for reliability, durability, and innovation. A great example of these values would be the Camry. Ever since 1983, Toyota has managed to make countless innovations in aspects such as performance and safety through this popular sedan. This is the story of how the Camry was conceived, and how it inspired evolution within the industry for over 40 years.  As mentioned before, the Camry was first introduced in 1983. It had a boxy, hatchback-like shape, which was very popular in the 1980s. This was a contrast to the Camry’s predecessor, the Celica Camry, a sportier, rear-wheel drive sedan, sold in Japan from 1979 to 1983. This first generation would continue to be manufactured until the end of 1986, with three different, four-cylinder, engines available.   The second generation would begin in 1987. The Camry would be given a more sporty design, with a streamlined body and an optional V-6 engine, which replaced the diesel engine in the United States. The new Camry also had a larger trunk, with more space in the interior. In 1988, Toyota would open a production facility in Kentucky to manufacture more Camrys for the American market. Being available as both a sedan and wagon, the Camry could now also have all-wheel drive.  The third generation began in 1992. The first significant change brought by this generation would be the edition of the coupe body style in 1992. However, it was discontinued in 1996, the same year this generation ended. The public was very impressed by the quality of the Camry in this generation, so much so, it made Car and Driver’s 10Best Cars list in 1992 and 1993.  When the fourth generation began in 1997. The work done for the engineering of these newer Camrys would be split between Toyota’s American and Japanese divisions. Even though the cars were made larger than before, they were slightly lighter and more affordable. It was also in 1997 that The Camry became the best selling car in America. In 1999, the Camry would become a coupe again, as the Toyota Camry Solara. For the time, it was considered impressively fast, with a speed of 135 miles per hour. In 2000, the Solara would also be available as a convertible.  The fifth generation lasted from 2002 to 2006. The Camry was made slightly taller, with raised seats and more legroom. It would also gain an in-dash navigation system. The Solara coupe variant was also redesigned in 2004, with the same top speed as the original design. However, the design of new, rear-hinged doors was proven unpopular.  Predictably, the Camrys of the sixth generation, made from 2007 to 2011, were bigger and stronger. However, something unique about this generation would be the introduction of a hybrid variant. The original hybrid Camry, from 2007, had a new V6 engine with 40% more power. It also used Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which was originally made for the Prius. This gave it an excellent fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon, comparable to the likes of the Toyota Prius or Honda Civic hybrids released at the same time. In 2010, the Camry hybrid got its own unique grille, front bumper, and fog lights.  Surprisingly, the reception of the seventh generation, from 2012 to 2017, was somewhat lukewarm. The new exterior design was more modern and streamlined, but didn’t stand out from the competition. Also, this was the first generation to only offer automatic transmission, meaning that the vehicle switched gears by its sled. In 2015, the exterior would be given a larger front grille, with sharper corners. It would also have new headlights, and a less sloped-looking body. Changes like these were meant to give it a more sporty, appealing look.  In 2018, the Toyota Camry’s makeover would coincidentally be revealed the same year as that of its biggest rival; the Honda Accord. The handling of this generation was greatly improved due to a lower center of gravity, lighter weight, and a more rigid body. In 2020, the Camry TRD was introduced. The Camry TRD, or Toyota Racing Development, was given firmer suspension and a more racecar-like appearance. However, aspects such as performance, speed, or power are seemingly unchanged from the other variants. It was also around this time when the Camry gained many popular safety features, such as the Pre-Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, Road Sign Assist, and an Automatic High-Beam system. 2025 marked the beginning of the Camry’s ninth generation. One of the most significant changes would be the overall appearance, with a sleeker look, and slimmer headlights. Another significant change would be how the Camry is now only going to be sold as a hybrid, with an electric torque. This new hybrid also has a fuel economy as high as 53 miles per gallon.  In conclusion, the Toyota Camry has undergone many changes throughout the generations of the auto industry. It has been through this sedan that the company has continued to evolve in their craft, in order to ensure the satisfaction of all customers. As Akio Toyoda, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Toyota, said best; “ When consumers purchase a Toyota, they are not simply purchasing a car, truck or van. They are placing their trust in our company.”

By: Adith Bondugula Winter in New Jersey not only brings cold weather and snowy days, but it also brings lots of opportunities where people can come together, stay active, and have lots of fun in the winter season. There are ice-skating rinks, festivals, as well as events that take place elsewhere, all of which allow students to enjoy their winter without going very far or spending out of their budget. One of the most fun and popular cold-weather activities and sports that is enjoyed all throughout the state of New Jersey is ice skating. A lot of public lessons for ice skating and places where skaters can practice are available in Monroe Township as well. No matter if you have no experience skating on the ice or are an expert, a lot of different types of people enjoy spending time with each other on the ice. Ice skating is a fun way to stay physically active during this time of year when many people spend more time indoors. Whether you are trying it out for the first time with your buddies to learn the basics or are skating with your family, ice skating is a great activity to try during winter.  Another fun winter activity to get involved in could be to check out local winter festivals. Local parks and downtown areas will have winter fairs and light installations during the snowy seasons. Some winter fairs and festivals could be really fun events, and they might give you an opportunity to make new friends since they will give you the chance to get out and have fun. This allows you to take a well-deserved break from all the homework and school to be out in other areas. Apart from festivals, events in the community also play an important role in keeping the community active, especially during times of celebration. This is because one can easily find events such as movie nights, game tournaments, and crafting sessions being held at places like libraries, community centers, and other social areas. Such events give students a chance to learn new things and take plenty of pictures. Students are also able to use the outdoor environment provided all around the community to have fun. Although most outdoor sports cannot be played during cold winter months, people are still able to engage in outdoor activities that are best conducted during the winter months, such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Such outdoor activities allow students to interact and remain relevant in the world of sports despite the cold. Additionally, there are also walking trails in most parks that people can use to take a peaceful walk or take photos as they appreciate nature during the winter season. Overall, winter at Monroe is not a time of the year to be bored and stay at home. With more events in the community than ever before, festivals, and outdoor activities, students can have a great time during the cold months of winter, even if they are summer lovers. As students, we have a tendency to overlook what is right before our eyes in our community, so let this winter season remind you that you don't have to go far to have a great time.

By: Anastasiya Averyanova  The first fall season has officially ended at the Monroe Township Highschool during the 2025-2026 school year. From all the wins and losses, the falcon athletes had been through it all, leading to more outstanding victories in future seasons. One of the most exciting games was between the Monroe Falcons Varsity Boys Soccer team and St. Joseph’s in the GMC Championship at Piscataway High School fighting for the GMC title! Christopher “FIFO” Duran was named the GMC player of the year, dominating all season, scoring big goals, and elevating everyone around him. His creativity, vision, and relentless work ethic made him the most dangerous player in the conference, and now he’s officially the best of the best. However, FIFO wasn’t the only player that made big commitments. Kaitlyn Brownlie played Division 1 Soccer at Monmouth University, showing off her leadership and immense dedication. There were many other good plays in the first season. In girls soccer, Emma Bruness made a tap in the goal in the three to nothing win against Colonia in the GMC quarterfinal. In girls volleyball, Christina Latash made a great hit from a wonderful set from Mia Manfre, dominating the 3-1 win against North Burlington. The Homecoming game was one of the most memorable games this season, with outstanding performances by the football team, cheer team, dance team, marching band, and color guard.  With all the standout players and highlights, there is still more to come. The teams gave it their all, leading to more successful wins in future seasons.

By: Medha Annam Christmas, A time when  fall colors are exchanged for   blank snow. The blank space waits to be covered in ornaments, lights, and accidental gingerbread crumbs. However, not everyone fills up that space the same way. Christmas is celebrated in various ways around the world, and many nations have their own unique traditions and stories.  Take Austria for example, where Santa isn’t the only one traveling all over the world: Krampus accompanies him too. Krampus, the half-man and half-goat demon, would whip naughty children, and possibly even take them away. Despite that fact, Austria dedicates an entire parade in his honor, where marchers dress up as Krampus and do acrobatic tricks, or just throw their whips at spectators.  On the other hand, Japan celebrates the holiday by enjoying a mouth-watering KFC meal on Christmas Day. The tradition started with Takeshi Okawara, who was the enterprising manager of the 1st KFC in Japan. In 1974, he made the fried chicken party bucket nationwide in Japan, advertising with the slogan “Kentucky is Christmas!” At the time, many Japanese people didn’t relate lots of traditions with Christmas, so it was easy to implement a new one. In India, while many do not celebrate Christmas due to its primarily Hindu population, those who do celebrate normally use banana or mango trees instead of the traditional pine trees we see in the States. People may also use mango leaves to decorate their houses. Southern-Indian Christians also tend to put tiny oil burning clay lamps on top of their roofs. This symbolizes Jesus being the world’s light. Finally, in Mumbai, people put up star lanterns and set up nativity scenes. Next is South Africa, whose people like to celebrate Christmas by picnicking and hosting barbecues due to the warm December weather (which is unheard of in the States). Now, let's go to Finland, where they have rice porridge for Christmas breakfast. But, it’s not just any porridge; in it, there is exactly one almond. Whoever finds the almond in their bowl gets good luck for a year. The U.S. also has its own unique tradition, that maybe you didn’t even know about, where people hide a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree, and the child who finds it gets an extra gift.                                                                                                                                                                    Traditions are an important part of who we are. No matter how you celebrate Christmas, or even if you don’t, I hope you're surrounded by family and friends during this cheerful time! Happy holidays!

By: Anastasiya Averyanova  Although many celebrate the holidays with presents and a big Christmas dinner, some are less fortunate than others. Throughout the month of December, the Monroe Township High School clubs have been putting together holiday drives, service projects, and fundraisers for those in need. Recently, the Red Cross club hosted a blood drive. Aryan Srinivasan, the Red Cross Club President said, “We have saved a bunch of lives with this. 3 lives are saved each time a pint of blood is collected”. They encourage students to support them in the many blood drives to come. The Red Cross club isn’t the only one helping the community. The Girl Up club started hosting a hygiene drive throughout the month of December and January, collecting donations ranging from toiletries to products. To add on, the Unified department had a Holiday T-Shirt Fundraiser. All proceeds went to the Unified Program for clubs, events, and activities. The Unified PAL that sold the most t-shirts received a bagel breakfast as a reward for giving back to the community. Holiday drives, service projects, and fundraisers help people throughout the state receive items they aren't able to afford. With more projects coming up, it never hurts to give back!

By: Adith Bondugula Every year on November 11th countless Americans across the country pause to pay their respects to the many that have been in uniform and whose bravery and sacrifices helped make the USA we see today. One such person is especially known for his actions on the battlefield and is one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. history. His name is Audie Murphy and he won the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions and selfless morals.  After Japan attacked Hawaii at Pearl Harbor, Audie Murphy wanted to join the military and serve the country. He tried to join the Marines at only 16 years old but did not meet the physical requirements required since he was too short. Despite this, he decided to join the Army due to his love for the country and determination to serve. While serving in the army, Murphy fought in WWII, fighting in areas such as North Africa, Italy, and France. Near the village of Holtzwihr in France in January 1945, the German forces struck Murphy’s unit using tanks and armed infantry. Any regular soldier would run away in panic with such a sudden attack, but instead Murphy decided to stay due to his exceptional courage. Even with injuries like a wound on his leg, Murphy stopped the German advance for about an hour. By using the machine gun he found at the top of an abandoned tank, he killed many enemy soldiers and was able to stall time for his fellow comrades. Even through extreme pain he persisted and never decided to give up on his goal of stopping the enemy. His selfless actions caused a huge shift on the outcome of the battle and saved countless American soldiers. His actions even received major recognition when he was awarded the Medal of Honor, one of the most prestigious awards in the world. After the war, Murphy returned home and decided to try and have a career centered around Hollywood. Although he looked fine in movies, Murphy was struggling with post traumatic stress from the intense memories he had from his heroic day in Holtzwhir, France. Murphy’s incredible story shows that the battle for many veterans doesn't just end when the war finishes, but instead continues for many years even after coming home.  Every Veterans Day, take a couple moments to remember Audie Murphy and the sacrifices he made for the country. His bravery, courage, and heroism inspires many even today and shows that behind every person in a uniform there is a human being that feels hope, fright, loss, and warmth.

By: Craig McPherson This edition of Senior Spotlight is dedicated to Sumer Snyder. One of Sumer’s biggest interests is theatre. She has been performing in the school’s drama club ever since she was a freshman. She is also a member of the International Thespians’ Society, a group of students who have made significant contributions to theatre in the school. Ever since she was little, Sumer loved musical movies. When she saw Wicked on Broadway in third grade, that was when she knew that musical theatre was her passion. The first ever show she was in herself was a fourth grade production of Aladdin. Sumer has been participating in school musicals ever since.  According to Sumer, she and the rest of the Drama Club are very close, supportive friends. This is likely due to how she and her colleagues spend up to six hours a day after school, for every two to three months, working together to prepare for productions. Sumer also has an important role in the club, the Sunshine Chair. It is her responsibility to make sure that everyone is comfortable in the club’s work environment. She also helps the directors to ensure that there are no production issues, and that there is positivity amongst the group. It is important to her that there can be high morale, whenever there is stress or exhaustion. As a member of the International Thespian’s Society, she also helps plan out shows, events, and fundraisers. She also serves as a representative for the future goals and wishes of the Drama Club.  When asked about what motivates her to maintain positivity among her peers, Sumer responded, “One of my biggest motivations to maintain positivity is remembering that you never know what someone is going through. If I’m able to make someone’s day just by staying positive and optimistic, it makes me feel good. I think I look out for others and their own happiness because of the same reasons. I want to try my best to stay on good terms with everyone and avoid any drama or negativity.” A passionate, hard worker, as well as a compassionate, caring friend, Sumer is a truly remarkable falcon. Even though this is her last year here, hopefully her example will continue to impact underclassmen.

By: Craig McPherson A 1987 Cadillac DeVille, complete with a light blue paint job, and intricate chrome details around its boxy, yet elegant body. (Credit : Cadillac DeVille - 6th Gen Market - CLASSIC.COM ) The Cadillac, one of the oldest luxury car brands in the world, was beloved in older decades, especially the 1950s and 60s. While the Cadillac was responsible for significant models, such as the Eldorado or the Escalade, the DeVille has a particularly fascinating history. This is the story of the Cadillac DeVille, one of the most innovative American luxury cars.  The original prototype of the DeVille debuted at the 1949 Motorama Show. This special model, owned by General Motors President Charles E. Wilson had a special chassis, a dummy air scope, and even power windows and a telephone. The most early models of the DeVille were Series 62 Coupes, until a Sedan counterpart was created in 1956.  The DeVille would gain more distinguished features, such as lady tail fins and bullet-shaped headlights in 1959. The first 5 generations of the DeVille were designed by Bill Mitchell. Mitchell also had a hand in the designs of a few other popular cars, such as the Cadillac Sixty Special, the 1963 Corvette, and the Camaro. The first generation of the DeVille, lasting from 1959 to 1960, was designed with 6.4L V8 engines and General Motor’s famous 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. However, the 1960 DeVille would see some notable changes compared to the 1959 DeVille. These changes would include a full-width grille, as well as a lack of front bumper guards and some chrome.  The second generation, models made from 1961 to 1964, would see even more significant changes. These would include the grille being slanted back towards the bumper, between the dual headlights. Furthermore, there were added power brakes and steering, automatic transmission, and a new 7.0L V8 engine. In addition to all of this, a few of the DeVille’s most notable cosmetic features would be changed. One of these would be the large fins behind the cab. This was most likely due to the general trend of fins on luxury cars ending. Another car that went through a similar transition would have been the Chevrolet Bel Air, another classic luxury car that would also lose its fins during the mid-sixties.   The DeVille’s third generation began in 1965. Notable features that were changed this year included headlight pairs that were vertical instead of horizontal, as well as a wider grille. 1966 would see the introduction of variable ratio steering, headrests, reclining seats, and an AM/FM stereo system. 1969 would be a particularly notable year for the DeVille, as this year’s model was made to be longer, lower, and wider.  It was meant to resemble the popular 1967 Fleetwood Eldorado. The 1969 DeVille would become one of the most popular cars that Cadillac would ever make, with exactly 163,048 models built.  The fourth generation of DeVille’s began in 1971. This would be a notable year for General Motors as a whole, as all of the company’s cars faced significant redesigns this year. The Cadillac DeVille was no different, in fact, the new version of the car for this era would have a record-breakingly wide interior. The spaciousness of this new interior would go unmatched until the early to mid 1990’s. In 1974, a new, optional feature would be introduced. This feature was the “Air Cushion Restraint System”. This feature was essentially just the inclusion of airbags, large inflatable bags that would pop out from the dashboard to protect both the driver and passengers in the case of a frontal collision. However, this feature was deemed too expensive by customers, resulting in it becoming popular. The Air Cushion Restraint System would be discontinued by 1976.  The beginning of the DeVille’s fifth generation would be in 1977, where the luxurious coupes were given higher rooflines and larger trunks. These newer models had to be smaller and lighter to improve their fuel economy. In 1980, the 7 liter V8 engine had been replaced by the new 368 CID V8, a 6 liter engine. This unfortunately meant that these DeVille’s were somewhat weaker and slower. Overall, 1980 was a very troubling year for the auto industry as a whole. Due to a financial recession, and the oil crisis of the 1970s. Many of the big companies, including General Motors, struggled to meet the taxing demand for smaller, more fuel efficient cars. They could only sell less than half the amount of Cadillac DeVilles that they had sold in the previous year.  The design changes made during the sixth generation, from 1985 to 1993, were conceived by designer Irvin Rybicki. The luxury coupe had been made even smaller, and was made to be even more fuel efficient. New features added in 1986 would include an anti-lock brake system, which stopped the wheels from locking up and skidding whenever the driver would brake, as well as a factory-installed cellphone. The 1989 model would receive a notable makeover. Consumers thought its new appearance was much more grand, not as stubby as the DeVilles made from 1985 to 1988. It also had electric outer mirrors, an airbag, a heated windshield, and a cassette stereo player.  The seventh generation began in 1994. The new designer of the DeVille was Chuck Jordan, who was guided by design director Wayne Cherry. This generation was the first where the DeVille was only available as a four door sedan, not a two door coupe. In 1997, the DeVille would lose its rear wheel skirts, making the design look more rounded.  Wayne Cherry would take Chuck Jordan’s place as the DeVille’s designer for the eighth, and final, generation. The exterior was redesigned once more, to be more aerodynamic. It also gained night vision, a feature that allowed for there to be thermal projections of the road ahead on the dashboard. These were meant to help drivers stay aware of any nearby pedestrians or animals at night, but it was discontinued by 2004. Not too long after, in 2005, production of the DeVille would cease. The DeVille had been replaced by the De Ville Touring Sedan, or DTS. This was due to how Cadillac wanted to rebrand its image, making more modern looking luxury cars appealing to more  younger people than older people, who had become commonly associated with the vintage coupes.  In conclusion, the Cadillac DeVille would be one of the most influential automobiles in the world of American luxury. While it would have to sacrifice many of its signature characteristics to not be seen as outdated, designers would still do their best to preserve its original charm, while making new innovations. Even though the DeVille eventually faced retirement in 2005, it’s still beloved by vintage car enthusiasts to this day. As a speaker from the Mergata museum in Ocean Cadillac said best, the Cadillac was “a symbol of optimism, luxury, craftsmanship, and the standard of American prestige.”

By: Medha Annam It’s 6am. You wake up, and get ready through drowsy eyes. You step onto the bus, or car, or whatever it may be.  You’re at school now.  But why? Is it truly necessary? Well, it might not be. According to the University of the People, some believe that school teaches subjects that do not apply to the students’ future. For example, being taught science when you want to go into business may seem quite irrelevant. Students may also not be able to get the hands-on experience they would need for the real world. However, education also allows for opportunities and more jobs in the future. Schooling also helps sharpen one’s social skills and other soft skills, such as problem-solving, collaboration, and focus. Schools also can allow students to explore their interests, and truly decide their path. (Photo to the right is from Seek). According to Penn Forester, in 2023, 39% of jobs required a high school diploma. However, if you're looking to get a job right out of high school,  Penn Foster states that passing your classes would be enough. However, if you plan on going to college, your grades will matter a bit more, and it is important to maintain decent grades.  So keeping this in mind, how does high school impact your future? Well, it may not give you the specialized learning you would need for a specific career, however getting an education does increase your chances of getting jobs, and also gaining skills that will help you in the future. Good high school grades will also allow you to enter into colleges specialized in your field. School can also enhance your education through clubs related to your interests, and by informing you of career-based opportunities.  Overall, while school can be difficult, it is important to remember the w hy. With school work, you gain skills that will prepare you for adult-life and give you more opportunities. If you feel like school is not giving you enough opportunities, look online for some or find ways to gain that hands-on experience yourself.  Maybe 90% of what you learn in school is a waste, but maybe it’s not. Maybe the learning comes indirectly, through trial and error. Perhaps it’s time we focus less on the errors, and focus more on the learning from it.

https://www.collegedata.com/resources/study-break/senior-year-stress By: Ashley Sawh December is known for its chilly mornings, Christmas drinks, and the countdown to the holidays. However, for seniors, it also marks down one of the most stressful times of the year. College deadlines, first-quarter grades, activities, and essays can make this month feel like a marathon with no finish line in sight. This month can feel overwhelming, but stress doesn’t have to take over. Here are realistic and practical ways seniors are managing chronic stress. First, break up large tasks. Large assignments and applications can feel impossible when looking at them. Being able to break everything into small chunks helps your brain stay focused without burning it out.  Next, make a priority list, sticking to three must-do tasks for each week. This reduces decision overload and helps to make sure that deadlines are met. Third, talk to someone about your stress when you feel like it’s getting out of hand. Even a quick conversation can help to clear your head before heading back to work.  Next, separate school from the rest of your life. Setting time aside for important out of school activities helps to decrease stress. Every once in a while, use the weekends for fun, family, or rest. This helps to recharge and avoid burnout. Don’t sacrifice sleep. Sleep boosts memory, improves concentration and decision-making, and helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Aim to get a good amount of sleep each night, and your brain will thank you. Reminder: everything doesn’t need to be perfect and figured out when you’re a senior. Seniors always feel like they must  have their entire lives planned out. However, that rarely works. Paths change and many opportunities open in unexpected ways. December is stressful, and so is the rest of the road to acceptance day, but the busy season does not last forever. Seniors are often stronger than they realize. As deadlines approach, take care of your mind, celebrate every win, and focus on what truly matters to you.

This October 29th, the school hosted its annual Haunted High School in support of the Mama Mare Breast Cancer Foundation. In this event, students representing clubs organized Halloween-themed booths for visitors to take part in. Each club created its own unique attraction, such as carnival games and displays, to entertain visitors and children wearing Halloween costumes. Other than offering spooky and fun activities, this event allowed clubs to showcase their purpose and connect with the local community. One of the stations was run by FBLA, which was the club presenting the event. Their booth involved a spider ring toss game. In this activity players were instructed to play a Halloween-themed game of ring toss. Here, children threw rings from a certain distance, aiming to earn points by having their ring land through the legs of inflatable spiders or pointy witches’ hats. After the game, children were able to obtain candy as a reward for their participation.  Another event at Haunted High School was the Art Honor’s Society’s booth. Here, visitors had the opportunity to get face paint from the student volunteers. In addition, photo-stand-ins of famous paintings, such as Johannes Vermeer’s Girl With Pearl Earrings , Pablo Picasso’s Girl Before a Mirror , and Edvard Munch’s The Scream  were set up. Students were able to poke their heads through the holes in the board to provide the illusion that they were part of the scene depicted. The Art Honors Society even created a haunted house in the art room. In this event, children walked through a maze the Art Honors Society had created in a dark room, and screamed in fright as students came from hiding spots to scare them. Nearby, visitors were allowed to view a spooky art installation, where neon-colored vine-like sculptures adorned a dark room. Meanwhile, the Math Honors Society had set up fun math-related activities for their event. Here, kids were made to do pentominoes puzzles to create many Halloween related pictures, such as witches' hats. Moreover, they had the chance to estimate the number of erasers in a jar, and fun coloring worksheets. In the end, they were given candy.  Additionally, the Spanish Honors Society had created beautiful Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas for display in the video production room, which had been decorated with candles and papel picado. In Mexico, ofrendas are altars used on this holiday to honor and celebrate a person who has passed. Thus, by creating these altars, visitors were exposed to an important Hispanic tradition.  In conclusion, Haunted High School has been a place for many attendees to have fun, celebrate Halloween, and obtain experiences they will cherish. It has served to be a great opportunity to bring awareness to these student-led clubs, as well as allow them to connect with their community. Thanks to the hard work of the participating clubs, Haunted High School had proved itself to be a great success.

By: Anastasiya Averyanova Known for bringing positive energy into the room, Ms. MacKenzie always finds a way to make connections with her students. Ms. MacKenzie has been teaching English Language Arts and the AVID elective for the past 22 years at Monroe Township High School, and she has left a long-lasting impact on her students.  “Be true to your work, your word, and your friend,” Ms. MacKenzie quoted from Henry David Thoreau. She wishes her students would carry this lesson with them long after graduation. During college, Ms. MacKenzie started to be a substitute teacher at a local high school and loved the experience, which inspired her to become a teacher. When asked what she enjoys about teaching ELA, Ms. MacKenzie answered, “Higher-level thinking and connecting the subject matter to the everyday lives of students”. In classroom G347, students are always talking, but there are limits. “It’s a mix of direct instruction, independent work, and collaborations,” Ms. MacKenzie described her teaching style. “Firm, but fair”. Although teaching is hard enough, technology has immensely changed the teaching experience and education of students. “It was transformed as a blessing, and a curse” She added.   Outside of school, Ms. MacKenzie spends time outdoors in nature. “It grounds me,” She added. She also enjoys traveling and learning new things, as well as going to the beach and the mountains, at any time of year. Ms. MacKenzie may surprise many students when she says she does snowboarding. “I taught myself how to snowboard 25 years ago and continue to snowboard every winter,” she says.  Out of the many years at MTHS, one memory stands out the most. Being given teacher of the year in 2013 was one of Ms. MacKenzie’s most shocking and emotional moments on camera in the school. Ms. MacKenzie hopes that her students will do their best, and when asked for a piece of advice, she made a simple statement. “Progress, not perfection”. Her students left a mark on her, and she did the same to her students.