Bunnell High School * 1 Bulldog Blvd, Stratford, CT 06614 * Monday, November 3, 2014 * Volume LIV, Issue 1

S C R I B EFrank Scott Bunnell

Nora TurnerEditor

After returning to Bunnell from summer break, it’s difficult for students to ignore the many changes that were implemented in school over the past three months. From revised policies and regulations, to a brand new office design, it’s easy to see that the safety and well-being of stu-dents is being emphasized more than ever. One of the rules affecting students directly is a policy of no headphones or ear buds being worn in the building at any time. Now, if students are seen wearing headphones in school, they will be asked to remove them or be taken to the office. “I don’t like the new head-phone rule; I used to go to study hall and watch videos for math

BHS Changes Security for the Greater Good

Karolyne Zanette Staff Reporter

The Freshmen Class Council Elections were held on Thurs. Oct. 2, 2014, in the BHS auditori-um during Per. 3 and part of Per. 4. The elections gave the Class of 2018 a chance to represent their fellow peers this year at BHS. The winners were announced Fri. Oct 3, 2014, and are as follows: Dan-iel Halchak as President, Alex Koletar as Vice President, Rohit Ramakrishnan as Treasurer, and Nathan Larsen as Secretary. For the first time in BHS history, there was a tie for VP be-tween Koletar and Kyle Sullivan. On Oct. 8, 2014, during fresh-men advisory, students re-voted, and Koletar emerged victorious at the end of the day. Koletar said, “[I’m excited to build] a strong bond with the student council and to achieve any goals that the students want me to achieve.” The elected students will be responsible for the many events that will surround the Class of 2018 for this school year, like fundraisers. Students interested in running for class council went to an inter-est meeting in early Sept. to get more information about becom-ing a candidate. Students prepared for the freshmen elections by creating posters, attending meetings, and writing speeches. The posters

included catchy slogans, the students’ names, and pictures of either the students or a logo of their choice. Halchak believes being in student council is important because, “it’s a way to benefit the ninth graders.” According to Nora Turn-er, junior class VP, the goal of choosing a student council is to “…raise general funds, represent their classes, [as well as] plan and organize events.” In the past, the student council has also been in charge of senior dues. One way they choose to fundraise is the Toy Drive, cloth-ing sales, and restaurant nights. “I want to be able to handle the money and raise money for our favorite trips for lower pric-es” said Ramakrishnan. Larsen’s goal as a secretary is, “to help the freshmen classes to stay organized [and] to try to lower prices for upcoming events.” Mrs. Coleman, advisor of the Student Govt., said, “I do want to encourage freshmen to run for office. When applying to college, they look for leadership skills and community involvement in addition to good grades.” Running for office is also a great way to communicate with the other students and the administration.

Class of ‘18 Votes Club Helps the EnvironmentDoralis CeballosStaff Reporter

As the 2014 school year settles in, there are so many activities to consider joining. The list of available activities, sports, clubs, jobs, tutoring – it goes on and on. If a student is looking for something fun to do afterschool, the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club is a great way to get involved at BHS and help a global cause. The S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club stands for Students Karing About The Environment Nature and Gardening. Science teacher, Dr. Wrubel, is the advisor and he runs the club. The club meets Thurs. after-school in C-132, for about an hour, from 2:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. According to students in the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club, this club is a group of individuals from all grade levels in Bunnell. Members are dedicated to helping and improving the environment and also promoting people’s awareness of the issue. This club does a number of proj-ects from collecting and recycling water bottles, cans, and paper, to planting flowers and trees outside the school. Members work on weeding and raking the school grounds, and also maintaining and plant-ing trees, shrubs, and flowers. The trees lined up along the C-Wing classrooms are the beau-tiful Rose of Sharon trees planted

New office layout is structured so everyone who enters the school must pass through the main office. Photo Credit: Nora Turner

last year. But now when I try to watch them, they take [my headphones] away,” said senior Brady Shea. Many are questioning why wearing headphones would have any effect on school safety, when actually they pose a serious threat. When students have them on, they could miss important announcements, or they might be unable to respond in an emer-gency. An exception to this rule is in G-wing; the art and music hallway, where students are al-lowed to wear headphones. School Resource Officer (SRO) Tesla agreed that headphones are not safe, just in general because, “... you cannot hear what’s going on around you... fire alarms, announcements, a person trying to talk to you… this is a common sense and respect issue.” “The headphone rule hasn’t

really changed, [we are] just enforcing it more now because of the added freedom of the cell phone policy” said Admin. Mr. Darcy. These “added freedoms” of the cell phone policy are actu-ally beneficial to students. Cell phones are now allowed in the hallways and the cafeteria, but pictures and videos of other students are prohibited at any time throughout the day. Once students enter the classroom, cell phones should be tucked away and out of sight. Students are only permitted to have them out in the classroom under a teacher’s specific instruction. Cell phones were becoming a disciplinary issue in the last few years with students who had them in class without a teacher’s direction. Teachers are allowed to set their own classroom guidelines; some may encourage the use of technology, while others don’t see it as beneficial. If students are being disruptive in any way with their phones, teachers have the right to confiscate them. Students must retrieve their phones from the office and could be subject to detention or other disciplinary action. “Since my second Master’s de-gree is in technology design, it’s

likely that we’ll use [cell phones]. [In class] we use Schoology, Me-dium, Google Docs and the band has its own website” said band director, Mr. Miller. Darcy also said cell phones are, “... a disruption to the educational process and that’s the philosophy behind [the new rules].” A more structural change to BHS is the new office entrance. Instead of students or visitors entering the school and being in the hallway between the gym and D-wing, there are now a set of doors blocking direct access into the school. This is the only outside entrance to BHS, as all others are kept locked at all times. This feature makes sure that everyone coming into the school has to enter through the office,

but its design is coming with some flaws. Currently, the office is still under construction, so there will be further changes to come. Secretary Mrs. Castelot said that the main entrance, “wasn’t very secure yet,” but, “...in the long run I think it will be better… when I see a finished project then I will feel better.” Tesla said, “I think change is good. We need to learn from the past to address and educate [for the future]. Accessibility and knowledge can make for a safer school environment to open lines of communication.” Overall, these changes are only in place to make students and faculty more secure inside our building and to prevent any endangerment to the school.

by the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club. In the past, S.K.A.T.E.N.G. has recycled birdhouses by designing and refurbishing them. They stationed them in the courtyards, in collaboration with the art classes. There are many new projects coming to S.K.A.T.E.N.G. in the near future. One of them is the outdoor class-room which is sure to bring the classroom learning experience to a whole new level. Thanks to the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club, BHS classes will have the opportunity to learn outside this spring. Junior Ashley Young, presi-dent of the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club, said, “There have been a lot of new members that have joined the club this year. The club is starting to grow and become much more popular. We have a lot of new ideas concerning the welfare of the environment. We are looking forward to a fun and productive year ahead of us.” Some benefits of joining this

club would be the fact that the S.K.A.T.E.N.G. Club is not just great for making new friends and being one with nature, but it is also a great way to earn some volunteer hours. Dr. Wrubel said, “Last year the average student in the club earned up to 20 volun-teer hours.” Any high school student knows that volunteer hours are extremely important and stu-dents can even earn extra credits with them. This club is an easy and fun way to earn those hours. Junior Kara Murray said, “You get volunteer hours when you join, and it’s a really fun way to spend your time. We’re basically like a big family, plus Doc is an awesome teacher, and he makes learning about the environment really cool!” If you are considering joining S.K.A.T.E.N.G, see Dr. Wrubel in C-132.

S.K.A.T.E.N.G Club members, sophomores Breyanna Lesperance (left) and Kayla Dominique (right), put collected recyclables from the building into bins outside. Photo Credit: Scribe

Signs are hanging around the school stating the new headphone policy. Photo Credit: Nora Turner

Page 2 NEWS October 2014

Upcoming Events

Nov. 4Election Day

No School for StudentsProfessional Development

for StaffNov. 7

End of the First Marking Period

Nov. 8SAT Administration

at BHS8 a.m.

Nov. 10- Nov. 14SPIRIT WEEK!

Sponsered by Student Gov.Nov. 12

Early Dismissal at 12:25Parent/ Teacher Conferences

Nov. 14Health and Medical Careers

ExpoNov. 14

Homecoming Football GameBHS Turf

7 p.m. Nov. 15

Homecoming DanceOronoque Country Club

6 p.m. to 11 p.m.Nov. 17

Girl’s Flag Football GamePender’s Field

7 p.m.Nov. 17

Report Cards IssuedNov. 20

QPR Training Period 3Nov. 26

Thanksgiving Pep RallyPeriods 6 and 7

Dec. 6 SAT Administration

at Bunnell8 a.m.Dec. 9

Fall Sports Awards BHS Auditorium7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Dec. 122nd Marking Period

Progress Reports FinalizedDec. 16

Holiday Concert BHS Auditorium 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Pumpkin Spice Takes Over Fall 2014Nora TurnerEditor

With fall approaching quickly, bringing its color-ful leaves and cooler tem-peratures, there is no doubt that this year’s biggest au-tumn trend has seeped into every nook and cranny of our lives. Popping up in the most unexpected of places: it’s pumpkin spice time. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, pump-kin spice is typically a blend of cinnamon with added nutmeg, ginger, cloves and allspice. It was originally used for what its name implies and found in quintessential fall desserts like pumpkin pie. But 11 years ago, Starbucks started a trend that would last for over a decade, creating the current market craze for all things pumpkin as soon as Sept. hits. According to CNN Mon-ey, Starbucks has sold over 200 million of their famed Pumpkin Spice Lattes (known on Twitter simply

BHS Classrooms Move OutsideKarolyne ZanetteStaff Reporter

BHS science teacher, Dr. Wrubel, has come up with a new way to teach students. The outdoor classroom is an innovative way to have a different venue of learning for the students and teach-ers. The outdoor classroom is in its final stages of approval before it can be built. However, for now, the outdoor classroom is made up of four white tents with plastic lawn chairs for seats. Senior Lily Mudre states, “It’s a different environ-ment, instead of staying inside; it’s a good change. It’s nice to do something different instead of being stuck in the classrooms. People are generally happi-er outside.” The idea for the outdoor

as #PSL) to date. In fact, during the last five years, total pumpkin sales have risen 34 percent according to the U.S. Dept. of Agricul-ture. So how do all of these pumpkin products stack up, and what’s worth the money? As a pioneer in the field, Starbucks is believed by many to have the best PSL on the market, but at a hefty price of $3.95 for just a tall, this fall drink will add up in your wallet. Served hot or iced, the original PSL is espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin syrup and topped with cinnamon spice. Its flavors are earthy and not pump-kin-y at all. It is great for someone looking to satisfy a sweet coffee craving. The PSL is perfect for someone new to coffee, as it does not stand out in this drink. Even though it’s a cult classic, overall it isn’t too impressive for the steep price. This year, Starbucks also added a Pumpkin Spice

Frappuccino which will definitely appeal to those looking for a creamy, cold treat. Its bright orange color is a little strange though and unappealing at best. “The [pumpkin spice latte] from Starbucks is bet-ter than Dunkin Donuts” said junior Arielle Beninco. Starbucks’ fiercest com-petitor, Dunkin’ Donuts, offers an extensive menu of fall inspired treats, and this year they have featured original pumpkin coffee, as well as pumpkin mocha and pumpkin white choco-

late. All of these flavors are available in hot or iced cof-fee for no additional cost. These flavors are available in lattes, as well. The DD pumpkin is actually very delicious. It’s sweet and satisfying to fall lovers. DD’s pumpkin coffees have a creamy, spicy flavor, and they are not too artifi-cial or fake. It’s reminiscent of a good chai tea, and it will appeal to all audiences, as it also doesn’t truly taste of coffee. DD also (continued on page 4)

A Starbucks PSL, the infamous fall drink with a cult-like following. Photo Credit: Scribe

Plans for the new outdoor classroom are in the works, courtesy of senior Sean Craven and Mr. Carrino. Photo Credit: Liridona Egriu

classroom actually came from Dr. Wrubel and his AP Biology students a few years ago. Dr. Wrubel and his stu-dents wanted to make use of the courtyard space that had been previously used as a garden. It provided an alternative setting to fuel critical thinking and keep students engaged. “We will be using the outdoor classroom, but not now since it’s getting colder out there. During the spring, I will use it with my sophomores for quick writes, reading, and journaling. It’s a way to get out of the indoors and get some fresh air” said English teacher, Mr. Covino. Money from grants, donations, and the S.K.A.T.E.N.G Club recy-cling program, helped fund this project.

The design and blue-prints of the outdoor class-room were created by Mr. Carrino and senior Sean Craven. “It has given my stu-dents a new perspective when we can bring our discussion outdoors,” said Dr. Wrubel. Mrs. Tait, a science teacher, said, “I will be teaching Environmental Science in the spring; there-fore, I will definitely be us-

ing the outdoor classroom then...we will be learning about ecosystems and we can identify specific parts of [them] by being immersed in the outdoors.” Admin. Dr. Dowling, said, “I think the out-door classroom is awe-some. Dr. Wrubel and the S.K.A.T.E.N.G Club are doing an outstanding job providing the school with an important option for instruction.”

Editor: Nora TurnerStaff: Doralis Ceballos, Liridona Egriu, Elizabeth Larsen, Karolyne ZanetteAdvisor: Mrs. Dena KellyThe Scribe, the official, student run newspaper of Bunnell High School, is published as a product of the journalism course at Bunnell High School. These publications welcome submissions from the student body and staff of Bunnell High School. However, the views expressed in the Scribe do not necessarily reflect the views of the district, administra-tion, students, or staff of the Scribe. Letters to the editor are welcomed; letters must be signed but names will be with-held upon request. Students interested in enrolling in the journalism program for the 2015-2016 academic year should contact their guidance counselors, or see Mrs. Kelly in D5 for more information.The Mission of Bunnell High School: Students will acquire content knowledge, strengthen higher order thinking, and develop character in order to address 21st century challenges.

October 2014 NEWS/ ENTERTAINMENT Page 3

Bulldog Buzz:

What’s your favorite fall activity?Doralis Ceballos

Staff Reporter

Connor Creates Harmony with Refugees

“Guardians” Cherry Bombs Box Office

Megan O’Leary – “I like getting fall candles and decorations. I also love Halloween time and dress-ing up.”

Orlando Segui – “I love football games and hanging out with friends. Fall is just an all-around great season.”

Nicole DeFazio – “I love the fall because it’s swim season!”

Andre Stanton – “My favorite activity in the fall is going to bonfires with friends.”

Elizabeth Larsen and Nora TurnerStaff Reporter and Editor

BHS Latin teacher, Dylan Connor, had quite an adven-ture early this summer. He traveled to Reyhanli, Turkey, right on the border of Syria and experienced upfront the conditions that Syrian refu-gees are living in today. “We were so close to the border that you could toss a ball to Syria if you felt like it,” Connor said. Connor, along with 30 other individuals, went to Turkey to help teach Syrian refugees during a mission for the Zeitouna Mentorship Program that took place over

Elizabeth LarsenStaff Reporter

This summer, Disney took a leap of faith with “Guardians of the Galaxy”, its first Marvel movie not based on The Avengers. With its insane special effects and spec-tacular new set of heroes, there was no question why “Guardians” crushed the box office. Peter Quill, played by Chris Pratt, is the film’s star. The movie opens with the death of Quill’s mother, and a distraught Quill flees the hospital, only to be taken captive by a group of outer-space thieves called the Ravagers. He grows up and takes the alias of “Star Lord”. He then finds a mysterious orb while fighting off supporters of a Kree warrior named Ronan. While trying to sell the orb, Quill is attacked by a green female assassin named Gamora

(Zoe Saldana) and two boun-ty hunters named Rocket and Groot. The four end up in prison, meeting a tattooed strong-man known as Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista). The five join together to escape, and they dis-cover the orb contains a priceless stone, wanted by the super vil-lain, Thanos, and his henchman, Ronan. They join together to save the planet Zandar and become the Guardians of the Galaxy. Freshman Dante Defederico said, “In my opinion, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ was adventurous and hysterical. It made me want to jump out of my seat and join them on screen.” The two bounty hunters, Groot and Rocket, are an un-usual pair of heroes. Rocket is a genetically modified raccoon, voiced by Bradley Cooper, and he is a master tactician who has a passion for guns, machinery and

explosives. Prior to filming the movie, it was debated whether or not to include Rocket because produc-ers didn’t want the character to be too cartoonish. It was decided to keep the character and, to help animate him, a live raccoon named Oreo, was used. Rocket’s partner in crime, Groot, is an amicable plant-sen-tient. Vin Diesel provided not only the voice, but he did the motion capture for Groot’s ani-mation. Freshman Nathan Larsen said, “The movie was awesome! My favorite character was Rocket.” Disney took a huge risk with “Guardians” because the char-acters are not well known. The “Guardians” were originally introduced by Marvel comics in 1969, but the movie is based on the more recent group formed in 2008. On the other hand, it worked to the film’s advantage

because a viewer did not have to see any previous films to know what was going on. A good story, at times serious, and at times funny, there are great special effects and wonderful characters which made this movie well worth watching, even a second time. Freshman Chris Palumberi said, “[The movie] was really enjoyable. The special effects were really cool. Overall it was a great movie.” “Guardians” came out on August 1, 2014, and was the blockbuster hit of the summer, beating out the other Marvel hit, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”. It’s also the number one comic book movie of the year. The sci-fi adventure runs 122 minutes long. It was produced on a $170 million budget and has grossed $752.6 million world-wide. Good news for fans, a se-quel is set to be released in 2017.

Five heroes of Guardians of the Galaxy pose in front of “know-where”. Photo Credit: Google Images

a four-day span. His goal as a teacher and a musician was to teach the children how to play basic instruments and how to sing. Connor’s tem-porary classroom was located on the roof of a building that had not been fully construct-ed. Zeitouna is a mentorship program that says it was born out of three ideas: every child deserves to play, have a mentor and to be inspired. Some of the other activi-ties they provide are mural paintings, storytelling, soccer workshops and writing. Their emphasis is on allowing these children who have sufffered so much to be able to be a kid and give them a sense of

hope and joy. Connor took two suitcas-es filled with shakers, har-monicas and rhythm sticks on his trip. He left all of the instruments behind for the children of the the Al Salam School for Syrian refugees. He said that he taught them mostly rock music, but more specifically the song, “Lean on Me.” Children ages five to ten came to class in the morning session, which lasted from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. They would take an hour lunch break, and then the older students, ages ten and up, would come to participate from noon to 3 p.m. In total, about 500 kids were involved in this pro-gram. “Their culture is a little different than ours, espe-cially the girls. They wear head scarves [hijabs] that cover their necks and heads. Sometimes you can’t always greet girls by hugging or handshaking, but you can definitely wave though” Connor said. BHS students helped fund his trip by participating in the “Walk for Syria” that took place in June. Students also

organized a clothing drive to support Syrian children back in the spring of 2014. His trip was also funded by the five song album by Connor titled, “Blood Like Fire”. Connor said that its title track is darker, but it is meant to represent what is happening in Syria today. At the end of four days, the refugees were grateful for all of the work the mentors had done. The children even performed “Lean on Me”, the song they had learned, at the end of the mission. After completing the mis-sion, Connor visited Istanbul, Turkey. Connor said, “The most rewarding thing about doing this is that the kids can just have play time. Most times, kids have to be the parents because one or more of their parents were killed in the violence and the younger ones also have to support the family.” Connor does not have plans to do this again in the near future, but he is hoping to participate in another mis-sion. He hopes to host both BHS fundraisers again.

Dylan Connor with the Syrian refugess he visited this summer in Rey-hanli, Turkey, that borders with Syria. Photo Credit: Zeitouna

Rocket, one of the “Guardians” who was animated using computer ani-mation and a live raccoon. Photo Credit: Google Images

Page 4 SPORTS/ENTERTAINMENT October 2014

The Bullpod: Top 5 Songs on your iPodDoralis CeballosStaff Reporter

Amanda BullFreshman

1. Ain’t It Fun – Paramore

2. Really Don’t Care – Demi Lovato ft. Cher Lloyd

3. Here’s To Never Growing Up – Avril Lavigne

4. Heart Attack – Demi Lovato

5. Safe and Sound – Capital Cities

James BavolaccoSophomore 1. Gravity –

Wicked Cast 2. Glitter in the Air –

Pink3. Break Free -

Ariana Grande 4. Fancy –

Iggy Azalea 5. I Was Here –

Beyoncé

Melanie RussellJunior

1. The Middle – Jimmy-Eat-World

2. I Don’t Want to Be – Gavin DeGraw

3. Taxi Cab – Twenty One Pilots4. House of Gold - Twenty One Pilots

5. Car Radio - Twenty One Pilots

Hope Caliendo Senior

1. Black Widow – Iggy Azalea (ft. Rita Ora)

2. Chandelier – Sia

3. Latch – Disclosure (ft. Sam Smith)

4. Drunk in Love – Beyoncé

5. Break Free – Ariana Grande

Ms. PacelliEnglish Teacher1. Chandelier –

Sia2. Girls Chase Boys - Ingrid Michaelson3. Black Widow –

Iggy Azalea (ft. Rita Ora)4. Neon Lights- Blake Shelton

5. Burnin' It Down - Jason Aldean

Pep Rally Reveals New Mascot, Junior Class Dominates

Liridona Egriu and Nora TurnerStaff Reporter and Editor

At this year’s fall pep rally, Bunnell welcomed a furry friend to the family: Lucy, a real bulldog. The pep rally also had a battle of the classes that proved the junior class to be supreme. For those who don’t know, the fall pep rally

Pumpkin Spice Takes Over Fall 2014, cont’d.

Senior Shalaja Rudder-Wilson of the BHS colorguard gets ready for the marching band’s performance at the fall pep rally. Photo Credit: The Laurel

BHS junior class gets pumped after they win the class relay race and free entrance to the opening football game. Photo Credit: The Laurel

usually comes before the first home games of the fall sports season, and high-lights all of the fall sports, which include soccer, football, volleyball, cross country and the dance and cheerleading teams. Sophomore Hannah Mott said, “The cheerleaders did very well and I’m proud of us!” The BHS Captain’s

Council ran the entire event and decided what colors each grade would wear for the pep rally. Freshmen wore grey, sophomores wore black, juniors wore white, and seniors wore blue. Bunnell’s marching band performed “The Who” show. The dance and cheerleading teams both performed as well. Sophomore Courtney Greene said, “The dance team did really well.” Band Director Mr. Miller praised the band by saying, “...they did wonderfully!” Juniors showed the most school spirit at the pep rally by winning the class games. Senior Dante Salce said, “The seniors... could have done better.” English teacher Mrs. Pacelli said, “It was a good pep rally considering the fact that it’s the second one

I have been to for Bunnell. Thank God it wasn’t as hot as last year though.” The class games were definitely the highlight of the event. A team from each class was formed before the event, and they competed for their class to get in free to the first football game. They played three legged race, a balloon race, and ball on ball. The juniors won ball on ball and

the balloon race, but there was no time to finish all of the challenges because stu-dents had to get home. Sophomore Angelo Gian-nitelli said, “[The pep rally] was actually pretty good!” At the first football game on Sept. 12, BHS lost to Pomperaug, 6-14, but many students came out to sup-port the team that night.

offers a Frozen Pumpkin Coffee Coolatta, similar to the Starbucks Frappaccino. In the end, DD has the bet-ter value than Starbucks. Candy and confection markets are even hitting the pumpkin trend with a lot of new products coming out this year, most notably M&M’s and Brach’s Candy Corn. The Pumpkin Spice M&M’s are surprisingly delicious, and they come in fun fall colors. They taste of

the original milk chocolate candies, but they are larg-er in size and have a great cinnamon kick to them. Unfortunately, they are only available in the jumbo bag, so be sure to share with friends. Another great candy to have at a Halloween party is Brach’s Pumpkin Spice Candy Corn, which looks exactly like regular candy corn. They have a pretty good pumpkin flavor, but they are a little on the sweet

side, even for candy corn. These are only available in bigger bags as well, but they will go fast in the hands of a candy corn lover. Finally, the biggest Pumpkin Spice fail was done by candy giant, Her-shey’s Kisses. While their Pumpkin Spice Kisses look adorable in their gold wrap-per, their inside fake orange color looks artificial. The inside is filled with white chocolate, but the whole thing tastes horrific; too

sweet and gross. They do not satisfy a pumpkin spice craving, and they are not worth the money at all. “For cross country, we always make pumpkin spice cake and cake pops. They’re really good,” said junior Erin Sullivan. Other notable pump-kin spice products are the Pumpkin Pie Blizzard from Dairy Queen, which is vanilla ice cream blended with pumpkin pie pieces, and topped with whipped

cream and cinnamon. Also, there are the limited edition pumpkin pie Pop-Tarts, pumpkin spice Oreos, and Pumpkin Spice Grands Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls. Who knows how long this pumpkin trend will last, but it looks like it’s here to stay this autumn.

Page 5 TEACHER FEATURES October 2014

Freshmen Class of TeachersLiridona EgriuStaff Reporter

The Scribe interviewed our new teachers at Bunnell. Each teacher answered the following questions: 1.What grade and classes do you teach? 2. How long have you been teaching and where did you work before coming to Bunnell? 3. What inspired you to teach? 4. What is your favorite thing about teaching? 5. What do you like to do outside of school? 6. What are you looking forward to or hoping to accomplish this year?

Mrs. Kelly – “Learning is continuous and invaluable.”1. I teach English to sophomores and juniors. I also run the school newspaper, the Scribe.2. Before coming to Bunnell, I taught at Fairfield Ludlowe High School as a long–term substitute. 3. I’ve always respected the teaching profession. After all, teachers shape and mold the young minds of our future—how much more incredible can a job get?4. My favorite thing about teaching is student growth. I love to see my students grow from the beginning of the school year to the end.5. Outside of school, I spend time with my family, husband and puppy, Dakota. I enjoy practicing yoga, cooking, hiking, reading, and writing poetry.6. I am looking forward to seeing my students grow, meeting more of the faculty, publishing the Scribes’ first newspaper, and learning more about my students. I hope to grow as an educator and help my students grow as learners.

Ms. Khan – “Learning is a lifelong process.”1. I teach freshmen Studies in Science. I have been teaching for five years.2. I was a science teacher at ALPHA last year. I was at a private school for three years prior to joining the Stratford Pub-lic Schools. This is my second year in Stratford.3. My desire to become a teacher was having the opportunity to work with students in [the] classroom and watching them grow and succeed.4. My favorite thing about teaching is [that] we educate ourselves through others, build character and skills that help us improve daily and become successful.5. Out of school, I bike ride [and] hike, but not long hikes I must admit. I also enjoy reading and cooking during my free time.6. I look forward to watching the students, especially my freshmen students, grow, setting and achieving [my] goals, and [making] wonderful memories at Bunnell. This year I hope to accomplish building on what I have learned in my previ-ous years.

Mr. Gentile – “I love to see the students laugh and enjoy being in class.”1. I teach all grades, freshmen through seniors. I teach Foods and Intro to Culinary Arts. I have been teaching for nine years.2. I taught at Wolcott High School in Wolcott, Conn., with Mr. Darcy who told me Bunnell is a great school.3. I enjoy working with students of all ages and walks of life.4. My favorite things are seeing the students enjoying class and [having] fun.5. Outside of school, I hang out with family and friends, travel, and cook, of course. I am always up for trying new things.6. I am looking forward to meeting most of the students and faculty. I hope to accomplish learning everyone’s name, a whole new system of operations, and teaching meaningful and productive labs.

Mr. Swaller- “I love to see my students enjoy gym and be active.”1. I teach gym to freshmen through juniors. I have been teaching for 13 years total. 2. I taught at Flood for nine years and three years at Eli Whitney.3. I always wanted to get into education. I always played sports, so teaching gym just fit. I had an aunt who was a teacher and principal who persuaded me in the direction of education.4. [My] favorite thing about teaching gym, I must say, is wearing sneakers every day to work, but being able to teach in a different setting is my favorite part.6. I am looking forward to an easy transition and teaching at a high school level. I hope to engage all the students in class actively.

Ms. Wiesman – “When I see a student get what I’m talking about, it brings me great joy.”1. Here at Bunnell, I teach Spanish 1, and at Stratford High, I teach Spanish 3. I have been teaching for seven years.2. I taught at Flood and Wooster. I also worked at a private school in NY.3. What inspired me to become a teacher was that I love studying and learning. I also love teaching Spanish because I am fascinated by other cultures and knowing different ways of thinking and living.4. My favorite thing about teaching is when the students get that “click”; that’s what brings me joy. When I teach I’m always learning.5. Outside of school, I spend time with my two lovely daughters. I spend time with family, and I do a lot of school relat-ed things, traveling, reading and exercising. 6. I am hoping to accomplish getting settled in, getting to know [the] two schools, developing new plans and utilizing the new technology to access more sources.

All Photo Credits: Liridona Egriu