steinmetz star · 2016-06-14 · steinmetz star volume 81, number 5, may-june 2016 in this issue...

Steinmetz StarVolume 81, Number 5, May-June 2016

www.steinmetzstar.com

In this IssueSenior Features

Valedictorian Ashley Komperda tops outstanding group of graduates

News Arts & Entertainment

Sports

Photo by Brian Geans

Congratulations, Class of 2016

Excellent drama club performances of witty, original work by Mr. Cole

Inspiring music at Spring Showcase

By Alejandro Hernandez

In addition to being known as a fun, dependable and generous person, a varsity athlete, captain of the cheer-

leading team, Homecoming Queen and one of the people responsible for booking comedian Hannibal Buress as commencement speaker, Ashley Komperda has achieved one final goal – graduating at the top of the Class of 2016.

“It is an opportunity I never thought I would have,” she said. “I actually didn’t realize I could be num-ber one until sophomore year, and I really fought for it since then.”

The fact that Ashley maintained the highest GPA in the class is incredible considering how involved she was in numerous activities in and out of school.

She was on the cheerleading and softball teams for all four years, a member of the National Honor Society and a reporter for the Steinmetz Star. She also worked on the weekends at Rich’s Fresh Market.

She credits her work ethic to her grandma, who she calls her biggest inspiration.

By McKenzie Lacefield

The Spring Showcase, the chorus and

band classes’ last performance of the year, was held on Tuesday, May 24.

The four begin-ning band classes, which include only a few students who played instruments before taking the class, played “La Bamba,” “My House,” “Love Yourself ” “Rather Be” and others.

Teacher Josh Hasken arranged each song. “This made each band sound their best,”

music teacher Beth Zaluba said.

By Elise Guillen

The production of The Case of the Burning Test was held on Fri-

day the 13th, but the unlucky date had no effect on the great play. It was an outstanding production that was put to-gether by some of Steinmetz finest students and faculty. It’s fantastic that there was a play this year due to the un-certainty of finding someone new to run the drama club. Seniors McKenzie Lacefield and Melanie Rolon star as Winter

Watson and Sherry Holmes in “The Case of the Burning Test,” a play written for Steinmetz by teacher Gerald Cole.

The Top Ten graduates of the Class of 2016 (front row): Zaneta Marcinik, Karla Miranda, Ashley Komperda, Kienna Bariso, Alicia Urquizo, Magda Hernandez; (back row): Jose Padilla, Alec Reyes, Venice Gonzalez, Lukasz Kuczynski. See Pages 8-20 for features on these students and dozens of other seniors.

Ashley Komperda

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Shout OutsJROTC

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2 Steinmetz Star May-June 2016

Steinmetz Star Staff2

Steinmetz Star

Steinmetz College Prep High School

3030 N. Mobile, Chicago IL 60641

773-534-3030, Star office (x) 25241

Website: www.steinmetzstar.com

Email: [email protected]

The Steinmetz Star is a student publi-cation of Steinmetz College Prep High School. Our goal is to inform the Stein-metz community of news affecting the students of our school. The opinions expressed in our articles are not necessar-ily those shared by the editors or faculty and administration.

The Steinmetz Star welcomes letters, corrections, comments, and articles from all members of the Steinmetz commu-nity.

Co-editors-in-chief: Alejandro Hernandez (2016) and Zaneta Marcinik (2016) Section editors and copy editors: Class of 2016: Ashley Komperda, McKenzie Lacefield, Jailene TorresUnderclassmen: Agape Alfaro, Lesli Avila, Steven Nunez, Daria Velazquez

Journalism class reporters: Underclass-men: Ronald Evans, Rikeya Hargrove, Angelo Jones, Izabella Kulik, Anthony Morgan-Kitch, Elizabeth Patino, Lisette Pravinchandra, Kinga Tarasiewicz, Imari Walker

Journalism class reporters:Class of 2016: Jacara Adams, Juan Cebal-los, Valery Champion, David Ciecha-nowski, Yesenia Deluna, Kara Dziadosz, Brian Geans, Paris Glispie, Luis Gomez, Venice Gonzalez, Gerardo Jerez, Dan-iel Lozeau, Rosemary Mcgurn, Gisel Mendoza, Wiljalisha Mollfulleda, Olivia Nunez, Camila Pina, Flor Renteria, Maya Robinson, Aleksander Samulak

Newspaper Club reporters: Class of 2016: Karen Bahena, Jaren Jack-son, Eyerusalem Coleman-Kitch, Diana Lagunas, Gerardo Martinez, Josh Marti-nez, Tyffani Quintero, Emony Tate

Newspaper Club reporters: Underclass-men: Lara Banez, Frank Cabrera, Ezra Chavez, Karla Colula, Caitlin Cortez, Samantha Cortez, Frederick Crittendon,

Kimberly Degante, Maria Figueroa, Van-essa Garcia, Elise Guillen, Luis Huerta, Everett Jennings, Jeremy Lugo, Monica Marroquin, Keren Mendoza, Jamara Mc-Garry, Arianna Plascencia, Alina Qureshy, Jacquelyn Rodriguez

The Newspaper Club meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Room 333 during 3rd and 4th period lunch and after school.

Star faculty adviser: Ms. Sharon Schmidt

Membership: Scholastic Press Association of Chicago

Printing: Mr. Hugh Hefner’s November 2015 donation to the Star covers the costs of printing the paper at Topweb in Chicago. •

Star editors shout out their appreciation

From Zaneta Marcinik From Ms. SchmidtFrom Alejandro Hernandez

A shout out to all the graduates in Journalism class and Newspaper Club, especially to the MVPs on the Star team – reporters and editors McKenzie Lacefield, Jailene Torres, Brian Geans, Alejandro Hernandez, Zaneta Marcinik and Ashley Komperda.

I will miss Brian’s amazing photography, joyful activism and pride, Jailene’s work ethic and ability to do anything needed to be done, Ashley’s topnotch reporting of so many important stories, Ale’s great writing, Zaneta’s kindnesss and integrity and everything about McKenzie.

You all did a great job this year (and for years before this one). You made the Star a fantastic paper. Thanks on behalf of all the readers who enjoyed every issue. I wish you the very best and I’m so happy you will stay in touch. Sincerely, Sharon Schmidt

The Steinmetz Star staff poses at Millennium Park following the March 2016 McCormick Media luncheon where both editors received “Superior” awards and the Star won “Superior Overall Newspaper.”

I have too many people to thank. I guess I have to start off with the Big Man Upstairs. All praises go to Him. All my blessings come from Him. Everything is written, and I just have to trust in His plan.

Shout outs to my teachers, Mr. Gonzalez and Mr. Pereyra hands down two of my favorites and two of the wisest men I have ever met. Thank you for all the interesting, funny, insightful conversations. Shoutouts to Ms. Ferrarini and Ms. Doyle, two of the wisest women I have ever met, and another two of my other favorites. Thank you for all the reality checks. I don’t know how I will survive college without the both of you.

Shout out to Ms. Schmidt for seeing my potential when I was just a timid freshman. I used to be insecure about my writing, but I’m cocky as hell now, and I owe that to your constant praise of my work. Thank you for feeding my ego. Every great writer has one.

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Shout out to my co-editor-in-chief, Ale Hernan-dez. I hope you will have a great time in college and pursue your career in writing. Remember to send me your first book that you will write.

Also shout out to Mrs. Schmidt for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the Steinmetz Star and choosing me as the editor-in-chief. It was an honor! You work very hard to make sure that Steinmetz has its own paper and the voice of teenagers and staff can be heard.

Shout out to everybody who was, is, and will be involved in the Steinmetz Star newspaper.

Love, Zaneta

More from Zaneta on Page 26

May-June 2016 Steinmetz Star 3

Poetry in April issue was very moving

May 16, 2016Hello everyone,Thank you for your support of

Steinmetz Fest 2016. Everything went smoothly and the outpouring of help was incredible. All the smil-ing faces, laughter and camaraderie served as testament that everyone gave from the heart. I am truly grate-ful and I know the students are also grateful.

Despite the weather being a little chilly, we had an estimated turnout of 700 people. The new addition of a block party, double dutch competi-

tion, CPD vs. Students basketball game and the CPS pep rally was a hit. More than 70 car show partici-pants attended. Each year gets better and better.

On Saturday night I was watch-ing WGN and saw a clip of Stein-metz Fest and the pep rally, and I was very excited and proud of our school. I recorded the clip on my phone and uploaded it to Facebook. A few minutes later they aired an-other clip, but this one was about the CPD vs. students basketball game. I also recorded that clip and uploaded

it to Facebook. Usually, a posting on the Steinmetz Facebook page receives about 200-250 views. I am proud to say the basketball clip, so far, has 6.6K views and the pep rally clip has 5.3K views. Those num-bers are truly amazing and each view means one more positive thought in someone’s mind about how great our students, teachers and community members are.

In addition to the television at-tention, we made Snapchat’s Chi-cago Story for Saturday. From what I understand, Snapchat is very ex-

clusive about what they include on their timeline and we had about six different clips on the timeline. The clips included the pep rally and the break dancing competition. The campus looked stunning and you could really feel the excitement in the videos.

If you would like to see pictures or videos please visit the Steinmetz Facebook account. The Alumni As-sociation uploaded an album of over 100 photos that chronicles Stein-metz Fest 2016. I also uploaded pic-tures which have been shared with

me to the account.I look forward to Steinmetz Fest

2017 and working with everyone again.

Once again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. I’m just in awe. This event is possible because of all the volunteers that pour their hearts into supporting Steinmetz Fest. I can dream up the impossi-ble but all of you make it possible. Thank you everyone. Thank you.

Gratefully yours,Jaime G. Jaramillo Jr.

Assistant Principal

Photos by Frank Cabrera

Star Opinion 3

What are your favorite memories?

Letters from our Readers

“Northside versus Southside during cross country.”

Angel Quintero

May 20, 2016The Steinmetz Star is

such an outstanding paper. I can’t imagine how some high schools get along with-out a student-oriented paper to give students a necessary voice. The Star gives Stein-metz students a chance to be heard by other students, faculty and the principal.

I was very moved by the pain expressed in the poetry in the March-April 2016 pa-per. I hope it was cathartic for the writers and that it gets kids thinking deeply about how to respect, ap-preciate and genuinely care for each other.

Sincerely, Jean Griffin

“Having teachers I could trust.”

Courtney Chandler

“Being in baseball with a lot of different people, but doing things as a fam-ily.”

Elias Nieves

“Making new friends.”Jaren Jackson

“I will miss Mr. Torres for being pretty cool. Also, Mr. Arroyo, for being an amazing teacher and an inspiration.”

Omar Jacinto

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May 14, 2016Dear Ronald, I am so pleased to offer

my congratulations on being selected to participate in the Illinois Press Foundation/Eastern Illinois Journalism Workshop, an 11-day resi-dential program that pro-vides an intimate look at journalism as a career. You will be introduced to the complete process of produc-ing news: gathering informa-tion, writing news, editing, designing, and producing a news and online publication.

This workshop includes field trips, reporting on politicians in Springfield, developing a photo essay and writing other stories.

You will also be travel-ing to a professional news-paper for two days for a hands-on internship.

The bulk of funds for the workshop is provided by the Illinois Press Foun-dation, with significant contributions from the McCormick Fund and the Eastern Illinois University Journalism Department. As a result, all expenses (including housing, meals and tuition) are paid.

I look forward to meet-ing you later this summer. I know this will be an amaz-ing experience. Again, con-gratulations!

Sincerely, Joe GisondiIPF/EIU Director

Ronald Evans received a $1,000 fellowship from the Scholastic Press Association of Chicago to study journalism this summer; however, he won’t need to use the money. He received a free, 11-day opportunity at Eastern Illinois University from the Illiinois Press Foundation.

Star reporter to attend summer workshop

Steinmetz Fest 2016 was a great success, thanks to staff and student volunteers

Some of the poets who entered the 2016 Steinmetz Star National Poetry Month contest, including winners (front row) Alejandro Her-nandez, Alina Qureshy, McKenzie Lacefiled and Jason Valtierra.

“The Homecoming games and meeting new people were highlights. I will miss Ms. Seritella and the security guards.” Maya Robinson

Photos by Steven Nunez


Star News4

Biology and chemistry teacher Therese Sivasubra-maniam is retiring this year after teaching here for 16 years.

“Ms. Siva was a cool teacher when I had her sophomore year,” senior Jacara Adams said. “She was so nice and gentle and very helpful. She was one of my favorite teachers ever.”

Prior to her teaching career, Ms. Sivasubramaniam worked as a geneticist.

“She did her research in applied genetics, reproducing different species of grasses,” teacher Dorota Ochwat said. “She is a very smart and hard working person. She always thinks about her students and how to make the teaching material more approachable for them.”

Ms. Sivasubramaniam said that in her retirement she will continue learning Spanish and French and cultivate her garden.

“She is a great colleague,” Ms. Ochwat said. “We all wish her well on her retirement and hope to keep in touch. All her friends from the science department will miss her a lot.” •

By Jailene Torres

Patrice Mikolajczak will be retiring this summer after working at Steinmetz for 22

years. That’s 22 years that staff and students have been able to enjoy her uplifting spirit. She works in student services helping kids who pay for debts or events.

“Now that I know I won’t be coming back to work here next year I honestly have mixed emotions of happiness and sadness,” she said.

She said that her favorite parts of the job were being able to “help people when needed” and “laugh with so many students and co-workers.”

Ms. Mikolajczak remembered that on her first day working here she felt a bit lost and scared, but that changed quickly as she soon felt at home at Steinmetz.

“I’m going to miss the students and staff,” she said. “I had a good relationship with a lot of people. I won’t miss getting up early and taking the CTA!”

She pointed to meeting Hugh Hefner, Forest Claypool and many other visitors as significant moments, as well as enjoying the sugar cookies at all the Chalk Fests.

The Star interviewed Patrice Mikolajczak’s co-workers Chuck Bezold, attendance; Joan McCollum, lunchroom manager; Laura Jimenez, attendance and teacher Robin Russo.

What will future students be missing?Mr. Bezold: Future Steinmetz students will miss her pa-

tience and humor while she is processing debts and payments.Ms. McCollum: Seeing her smiling face. She knows her

job in student services and gets it done daily whether she has help or not.

Ms. Jimenez: Her attitude, always laughing and telling jokes. She is one funny person.

Ms. Russo: I think that there will be a lot of happy laughter missing from the halls of Steinmetz. She is not only an im-portant person to have in Student Services, but she is someone we can always count on for a smile and a joke.

How do you feel about her retirement?Mr. Bezold: I’ll miss Patrice; we worked well together.Ms. Collum: It makes me feel sad. She truly makes my

day: she’s a very happy person.Ms. Jimenez: Sad, because now I have to do her job.Ms. Russo: It is sad knowing that she won’t be there. Pa-

trice and I have built up a great working relationship over the years. Every event I plan ultimately has gone through her at Student Services, whether it is homecoming, prom, luncheon, athletics or one of my field trips. She has been a joy to work

with, and I will miss that. What are a few words that de-

scribe her?Mr. Bezold: Patrice is extremely

knowledgeable about all facts of student services, coupled with a zany personality and weird sense of humor.

Ms. McCollum: She is always happy and has jokes to tell. She lifts our spirit.

Ms. Jimenez: Patrice is funny, loving, caring and sweet.

Ms. Russo: Hard-working, kind, joyful.

How has she helped Steinmetz?Mr. Bezold: She has provided con-

scientious, efficient service to thousands of students over the course of her career.

Ms. McCollum: She always helps out with events for the students. We need more people like her to help out.

Ms. Jimenez: She has contributed many years of dedica-tion and very hard work.

Ms. Russo: I think it has been important for Steinmetz kids to have a friendly face to see in Student Services. She has a happiness to her that adds to the atmosphere in this building. We as human people don’t always seem happy to be at work, but she brings a positivity to her job that I think is infectious. That kind of spirit will truly be missed – and hard to replace.

What is a significant moment you shared?Mr. Bezold: I routinely drive Patrice home from school.

We’ve shared so many laughs.Ms. McCollum: I will always remember her riding her

bike to work!Ms. Jimenez: One day Patrice came into work and I loved

the shirt she was wearing, I remembered it from before. But something was wrong – it was on backwards.

Ms. Russo: Patrice is a truly compassionate person. I can think of so many times when I have gone through difficulties with my pets when she was right there with kind words or a hug. She loves animals as much as she does people, and I have been grateful for her kindness and support in so many ways.

Is there anything else we should know?Mr. Bezold: I’ve known Patrice for over 14 years. She’s a

good friend,.Ms. McCollum: We’ll miss her very much.Ms. Jimenez: Something else you should know is that she

is a very caring mother.Ms. Russo: I love that she, like me, is a real White Sox fan.

There aren’t that many of us around, so that makes another special bond we share.•

Ms. Siva to retire after great teaching career

Ms. Sivasubramaniam’s daughter joined her and the Stein-metz teachers union members on the picket line on April 1. Ms. Siv’s other daughter is working in Peru. Both are doctors.

Patrice Mikolajczak retiring after 22 years of friendly service to Steinmetz students

Seniors up all night, chased by zombie teachers in annual lock in

By Juan Ceballos

The Senior Lock In, held Friday night through Saturday morn-ing on May 5- 6, was incredibly

fun. The 125 students enjoyed it.We played volleyball, basketball

and other sports. We also played games in teams like tug-of-war, scavenger hunts, dancing and video games.

The best part was the Walking Dead game we played. We were followed by teachers as zombies. When the lights went out that’s when the zombie attack started. We had to run fast and with a flashlight because we could not

see anything.A former student from the class of 2004

created cool zombie art designs on some teach-ers and students. The art work looked real.

“I really liked how there were makeup art-ists there that were able to make the students look like they were attacked by zombies,” Ashley Komperda said.

We had a DJ in the big gym. No one slept. There was lots of food, drinks and ice cream. Everyone was happy and laughing throughout the night.

“I really enjoyed how there were so many activities to keep us awake like video games, group activities and occasional zombie apoca-lypses,” Ashley said.

“The only thing that I didn’t like was being caught because I really wanted to survive. I wasn’t able to tell the teachers apart from the student in the dark, but that’s what was so fun about it.”

At the end we went to the fourth floor to go to the roof to see the sun rise. We took pictures up there. The view was nice.

“My favorite part of the Lock In was prob-ably going up on the roof during the sunrise with the entire senior class,” Ashley said. “It is something I will cherish forever.” •

Interested in joining the Star staff?The people of Steinmetz will be busy this summer. We need reporters and photographers to tell their stories. See newspaper faculty adviser Sharon. Schmidt in Room 333 before school is out. Can’t make it to Room 333? Email [email protected].

Photo by Juan Ceballos

Photo by Jailene Torres


Star News 5

Seven seniors recieved a Seal of Biliteracy this year: Kaudia Ada-mus, Alisson Castellanos, Saul Hernandez, Lukasz Kuczynski, Zaneta Marcinik, Kacper Sip, Mercedes Velasco.

“This is a great achievement for our students,” counselor Perla Del Valle said.

According to CPS, “The State Seal of Biliteracy is a recognition given to high school seniors who have studied and can exhibit the ability to communicate in two or more languages (including English) by the spring of their senior year of high school. The State Seal of Biliteracy is a statement of accomplishment for college admission and for future employers.”

In order to qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy, students needed high ACT or ACCESS score in English and had to show proficiency in the ACTFL or AAPPL tests or in an AP exam in their world language.•

Teachers Mojgan Majdza-deh and Vince Caputi took their juniors and se-

niors to Medieval Times in May.“The horses and swords were

great,” junior Keosha Cum-mings. “It was reminded me of Beowulf, with the sides fighting a battle.”

This trip was the celebration of accomplishment of taking the ACT and moving toward exploring programs and colleges to apply for in senior year. It was a trip for the students to spend time with one another, get to know the ones they don’t know and just be happy and experi-ence the “epic battle of steel and steed.”

“The students were super excited and happy to go to a field trip since the majority of them said they were not in a field trip since elementary or middle school,” Dr. Majdzadeh said.

One of the student’s parents wrote to Dr. Majdzadeh: “Thank you for this awesome opportu-nity. Medieval Times is a great, fun place.”•

Thirty-five students will be inducted into the Na-tional Honor Society on June 9. The NHS is sponsored by teacher Elizabeth Perez. The fol-

lowing seniors serve as officers of NHS:President – Marisol BernardinoVice President – Ashley KomperdaService – Adriana CortesSecretary – Zaneta MarcinikNHS is the nation’s premier organization established

to recognize outstanding high school students. The new inductees include sophomores, juniors

and seniors: Jacara Adams, Agape Alfaro, Ryan Alli-bone, Alvaro Blancas, Juan Ceballos, Alexander Colon, A’Shanti Davis, Elise Guillen, Michelle Hernandez, Madison Isidore, Steffin Kurian, Emily Martinez, Jennifer Martinez, Teresa Martinez, Anahi Mendoza, Alexander Paszkowski, Cristina Perez, Liana Perez, Christopher Pineda, Delanie Preston, Yahaira Rangel, Briana Raper, Cari Russell, Weronika Rybarska, Cindy Salgado, Vanessa Sotelo, Julissa Tello, Yahaira Villatoro, Imari Walker, Angelica Wasilewski, Matrice Young.

Current junior and senior NHS members are Karen Bahena, Jessica Banderas, Navjot Banipal, Kienna Bariso, Klaudia Batko, Marisol Bernardino, Ingrid Candia, Ashley Caraballo, Allison Castellanos, Gabri-ela Caudel, Courtney Chandler, Eyerusalem Coleman-Kitch, Milena Collazo, Adriana Cortes, Raul Costilla, Catherine Delgado, Javier Delgado, Jenny Gonzalez, Rikeya Hargrove, Alejandro Hernandez, Raziel Ilumin, Renziel Ilumin, Ashley Komperda, Lukasz Kuczynski, Stanley Kurian, McKenzie Lacefield, Diana Lagunas, Sylvia Madej, Zaneta Marcinik, Joshua Martinez, Gis-sel Mendoza, Kimberly Monterroso, Elias Nieves, Patrick Oasin, Jonathan Ovalle, Angel Quintero, Flor Renteria, Maria Reyna, Maya Robinson, Mela-nie Rolon, Mikayla Roman, Lukasz Rudka, Michael Rusnaczyk, Carlos Sanchez, Lissette Sandoval, Karla Solis, Vanessa Sotelo, Karrina Stevens, Piotr Szczech, Kinga Tarasiewicz, Emony Tate, Melissa Tello, Erica Toro and Alicia Urquizo.•

Outstanding students recognized in National Honor Society

NHS president Marisol Bernardino (front row, center) poses with some of the senior NHS members.

Seven students earn ‘State Seal of Biliteracy’

Alisson Castellanos (above), Zaneta Marcinik and Kacper Sip attended the Biliteracy Awards Ceremony at UIC on June 1.

After reading Beowulf, students go Medieval

By Caitlin Cortez

Teacher Paul Bagdonas ran the third blood drive this year on May 11. More than 100 people gave blood.

Many students weren’t really informed well before they signed up and we only know so much to inform you the day of signing up. Maybe the following informa-tion can help out for next year’s drive:

Basic qualifications for donating blood is to be at least 16 years or older and weigh at least 110 pounds.

You should definitely be in good health the day you are donating. So stay hydrated and eat well.

For you weight lifters out there – strenuous activity the day of isn’t recom-mended.

For the safety of the recipient of your blood, you shouldn’t donate if you have the cold or tthe flu.

You save three lives with your dona-tion.

As for my experience participating in the blood drive for the first time, it was a good way to introduce myself to doing

new things for Steinmetz. From getting people to sign up to volunteer, to giving out food, and finally signing people in – it was quite an experience.

I never thought about how much patience one needs to do these types of events. You have to deal with many dif-ferent types of people and you have to be very mature.

There was a point during the day of donation when a girl dropped due to her blood pressure. It had suddenly dropped

after one of our team members, Justyn Williams, had checked up on how she was doing. It was pretty scary, but everything was kept in control and she was laid down to make sure she’d be okay to go on with her day.

Senior AB Delcid helped us out and put us back on track when hosting the blood drive. Here are a few words he shared with the Star:

“I did not donate blood, which is very upsetting. I enjoyed helping out with the signing up and setting up and setting my team up to work hard.

I believe teachers should donate blood because it’s saving lives. I only know one teacher who donated – Paul Bagdonas. If more teachers were to donate then we would have been close to our goal and it would help with those in need of blood. Teachers should sign up and help because there are many students who can’t because of their age and weight.”

Special thanks to everyone who par-ticipated and volunteered to donate blood this year. Hopefully, you can continue and you can save more lives. •

Another blood drive helps save lives No pep at ACT rallyBy Rikeya Hargrove

T he ACT pep rally on May 2 did not

leave juniors confi-dent in testing.

“It wasn’t short and sweet; it was short and boring,” Kinga Tarasiewicz said.

Many students felt that they were dubbed, especially when they were promised prizes but didn’t get any.

“There was no pepping,” Jazmilette Machado said. “It seemed last minute.”

Many students noticed that their teachers didn’t know about the pep rally, which made it seem last minute and not really important. Some of the decora-tions were leftover from the senior “Decision Day” event of April 29.

Other complaints from juniors were that the as-sembly was a waste of time because it did not contain any useful information, as well as being boring.

“There was no pep in that rally,” Catera Shanks said.The Star asked the counselors about the pep rally.

They said they they were not in charge of the event. Next year, juniors will be required to take the SAT instead of the ACT. •

Drawing by Tony Morgan-Kitch


Star News

By Gissel Mendoza

JROTC instructor 1SG Roberto Ruiz is retir-ing from Steinmetz this year, after helping many students since he began working here

in 2011.I came to 1SG Ruiz as a sophomore who

wanted to be more than just a regular cadet in the JROTC program, and that’s what he pushed me to do.

Any time I’ve succeeded in high school, I can guarantee he has had some input on it or some kind words to say about it. It’s to him I owe my success. Though he’s only worked at Steinmetz for about five years and known me for three, he has made an impact on all of us that will last a lifetime.

Now being the Brigade Commander, I reflect back on all my choices in the JROTC program and know that without him and his guidance, love and care none of it would have happened.

I still remember my first drill practice as a sophomore, and I still remember asking him, “What can I do to get to the top?” Well, here I am and I owe it all to you.

Sgt. Ruiz, I thank you for all you’ve done for me and this program; you were my biggest influ-ence. •

JROTC instructors Col. Baynes, 1SG Ruiz and SFC Amaro to retire

By Joshua Martinez and Kimberly Degante

The star that’s worn above ev-ery JROTC Cadet’s name tag means a lot to those in the

program – Honor Unit with Dis-tinction. It’s a star we earned again this year after our federal inspection, which comes every three years.

The cadets put a lot of heart and effort towards this inspection. We all had to have our uniforms looking sharp to get the points the points we deserved. Our staff had to brief the inspectors about our Continuous Improvement Plan and our program, including our Drill Team, Rifle Team, P.T Team and Color Guard.

Brigade Commander Gissel Mendoza led the charge, while also getting help from the rest of

the staff – Executive Officer,Gabriela Cau-del, Command Sergeant Major Ivan Rico, our S-1 Camila Pina, S-2 Joshua Martinez, S-3 Adrian Garzon, S-4 Noe Barce-nes, and S-5 Cindy Sal-gado. All were in charge of making sure our brief-ing covered everything about the Continuous Improvement Plan.

The service learning group of Katie Marin, Yurida Galaviz, and Kimberly Degante briefed the in-spectors on our canned food drive, which raised 3,504 cans.

We had a performance from the Drill Team, which was led by sopho-more Chiya Loyd, who had to go gather 12 members and set up a drill team to demonstrate to the inspec-

tors. The Color Guard also had to set up a performance to show them what we’re made of. They did very well on both and the staff is very proud of both teams.

At the end, with all the hard effort and work and all the time it took us to prepare for the inspec-

tion, we ended up passing with a 95 out of 100. We are one of only two schools out of 12 that passed this inspection.

Congratulations, cadets, for all your time and effort. Now we wait for the next inspection in 2019.

Those who accom-plished a lot this year in our JROTC pro-gram were awarded and celebrated at the

spring ceremony on May 18. Our Drill team did outstanding

at the Citywide Drill competition, winning 2nd overall Drill, 1st in Platoon Commander which was Chiya Loyd, and 1st in IDR which was Victor Barajas.

The Rifle Team, which we built

up from four members to 14, per-formed three times and went from good to outstanding during that time. May they get better every year and never regress. Shout out to the Class of 2016 for bringing the flips to Steinmetz JROTC.

Many awards based on academics were given out.

Fabian Reyes received the value of $180,000 from the Navy for his enlistment, which includes his mili-tary occupational specialty.

The new staff for next year was also announced at the Spring Cer-emony:

B.C. Cathy Delgado XO Chiya Loyd S-1 Lissette SandovalS-2 Melissa Tello S-3 Julissa Tello S-4 Datxy DircioS-5 Yurida Galaviz S-6 Kimberly Degante •

By Lisette Pravinchandra

Colonel John Baynes is retiring this year. The Star interviewed him about his career, both in the Army and as the

JROTC coordinator at Steinmetz. What are you going to miss here?I’m going to miss the cadets, staff, the color

guard and being able to see them get better; It’s always fun to see them grow.

What would you say about this job?This job takes a lot of time, energy, and

dedication. It consists of giving up nights and weekends to help cadets.

How do you feel about the cadets and them wearing their uniforms?

It’s great seeing the cadets in their uniform, and I really hope they see what it does. They should be wearing the uniform with pride because anywhere you work you’re probably getting a uniform; get used to it.

What has your career entailed?I was in the Army for 21 years and in the

reserves for 16 years, a total of 37 years. Work-ing at a school is a much different situation than on active duty. In the 10 years of working here, I learned you have to just do the job. What I really appreciate is the support the teachers give to the students.

What was your favorite part about being in the Army?

The responsibility, working with the sol-diers and generals.

What was the hardest part of this job?Getting the kids in uniform and to actu-

ally appreciate it. It’s hard to get them to take pride in the uniform and understand that it’s a large part of their grade.

How do you feel about leaving?It’ll be hard to leave, definitely a big change

for me. But I have no regrets.•

By Kara Dziadosz

SFC Tammy Amaro is retiring from Steinmetz this year, after four years of excellent teaching

at Steinmetz.SFC Amaro pushed her students and

celebrated their acheivements. She sent the following letter to the

Star to shout out to her students:To the graduating Class of 2016: You have finally made it to the fin-

ish line. The senior classes in the JROTC Program have been counting down toward this day since we came back from Christ-mas Break and boy did that time go by fast (well maybe not at first)!

Some of you may have been crawling to reach that finish line and some of you may have felt rejuvenated once you saw that you were near the end and made a mad dash to that finish line. It doesn’t matter how you got there. The most important thing is that you completed your goal; you made it.

Remember how it feels to accomplish

this mission of earning your high school diploma. The feeling of accomplishment is exhilarating and you should be proud of your accomplishment. But this is only one of many finish lines that you will cross in your lifetime and I hope you will finish proud and strong every time.

As I walk through the halls of Stein-metz College Prep I realize that our days are numbered here. We will both be leav-ing Steinmetz College Prep after your graduation ceremony. You will be moving on to bigger and greater responsibilities like the military, college, and even the workforce (the adult world!).

I will be leaving Steinmetz College Prep this year as well to move on to a new home in another state and meeting new people and new students. I may be moving on, too, but I will not forget the faculty, staff and students at Steinmetz College Prep. It has been an honor to have worked with you all.

Best of luck to you all in your future endeavors,

Sergeant First Class (SFC) Amaro •

1SG Ruiz, my biggest influence

SFC Amaro, dedicated to her cadets

Col. Baynes, a great leader

JROTC passes inspection with honors

Students and staff have a hard time imagining JROTC at Steinmetz next year without Col. John Baynes, 1SG Roberto Ruiz and SFC Tammy Amaro. Fortunately, SFC Phillip Yangas and SFC Robert Davis will remain.

Col. Baynes with Rubi Trujillo, who said, “I’m going to miss him very much. He’s inspired all of the cadets to be leaders and to never give up.” Shout outs to JROTC retirees: Pages 22-23.

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Star News 7

June 26 Pride Parade is rich with history

Star reporter Brian Geans (left) with Steinmetz graduate Dino Masciopinto at the 2015 Pride Parade. Chicago Teachers Union officer Kristine Mayle (right) with the CTU float. The Gay Liberation movement took off in the late 1960s after a three-day rebellion against police harrassment at the Stonewall Inn in New York City.

By Sharon Schmidt, Steinmetz Star adviser Brian did a great job with this rerpot on the Pride Parade (and in so many stories over the years in which he’s celebrated diversity at Steinmetz). It’s wonderful that the Gay Straight Alliance, sponsored by teacher Elizabeth Zaluba, continues to offer a place at our school for fun and education, including the history of gay liberation. I apologize to student reporters for taking up space on this page, but I wanted to share some information about Stonewall that I learned because my brother-in-law, artist Tommy Lanigan Schmidt, was there. Tommy is the young man (above) in the striped shirt with the other gay youth and drag queens who fought back against police brutality in the rebellion. In a Facebook post he identified them, including

“Chris, with brick in purse.” Tommy is the man (below) in the purple shirt, with Gay Liberation Front founder Jerry Hoose, at the White House when the Obamas began reaching out to the LGBTQ community. The Gay City News quotes Tommy on how acceptance at the Stonewall Inn in the violent, homophobic 1960s helped empower LGBTQ youth to fight back: “The Stonewall allowed [same-sex couples] to slow-dance... This changed everything about the way you felt about yourself because you were having an affectionate moment with someone else, so you felt totally humanized in a complete way that can’t even be described... the revolution happens in the person before it happens in the street.” – http://gaycitynews.nyc/tommy-lanigan-schmidt-stonewall-romantic-revolutionary/ •

By Brian Geans

Gay pride today is different than it was in the past – we party, dance, have a drag show. But

in the past it was crazy. There was a lot of hate and people didn’t understand the LGBTQ community.

The first Gay Pride Parade was on June 28,1970. Gay pride was all about marching for freedom and equality. It took courage. This day is so powerful for LGBTQ people to have a voice to tell people that they are here for equality and have the same rights as ev-eryone. They marched to be who they are and to not have any fear about it.

The environment wasn’t the same then; people weren’t as open as they are today. In our generation people are more accepting than they were in the 1960’s and ’70’s. Our generation of pride is often about partying and having fun. But the Gay Pride Parade is also about freedom and getting the rights that you deserve, because no one should be treated less than a person.

In the past, a lot of people thought being gay or lesbian was a sign of a disease. Ho-mosexuailty was illegal in America and gay people were considered “sexual psychopaths and insidious threats to the statues quo,” Jeff Dobbins writes in his blog Walks of New York. “They were frequently institutionalized and subjected to shock treatment, steriliza-tion, and even lobotomies.”

There were many gays and lesbians in New York City, but there wasn’t safety. Many people were blackmailed, beaten up and ar-rested. The environment was so bad, gays and lesbians had to hide in fear and meet secretly.

“The gay bars were the center of the social life, but they were constantly raided by the police,” Mr. Dobbins reports. He summa-rizes the Seonewall Rebellion, when gays fought back, and the Gay Pride movement and the June parades began:

On June 28, 1969, a crowd gathered in Sheridan Square to watch a routine raid of a popular gay bar, The Stonewall Inn. This time, rather than meekly submitting to arrest, many of the men, women and drag queens fought the police while being forced into paddy wagons. When the officers beat them, the grow-ing crowd became incensed and overwhelmed the NYPD. A riot broke out as gays, lesbians, and drag queens gave vent to their rage over perpetual harassment. Over three days windows were smashed, fires set, protesters beaten, cops attacked, and tear gas ignited on the streets of Greenwich Village. For the first time, NYC’s gay citizens came together to fight, and for many of them there was no turning back. LGBT activists vowed to continue striving for dignity and equal rights. The Gay Rights Movement was born.

The next year a protest march was held to commemorate the Stonewall Rebellion. Since then the march has become a parade held all over the world for gay pride.

The LGBT community is here and we are not going anywhere. We are people just like everyone else. Today, the generation of pride is different. We party and have fun in the open.

June is Pride Month. The Stonewall Riots occured in June; gay marriage became legal throughout the United States on June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court ruled that any state’s ban on gay marriage was unconstitutional.

This year’s Chicago Pride Parade will be on June 26. This is the 47th anniversary of pride. It’s very important to the LGBT community to show who we are without being afraid. Gay and straight people support the LGBT community.

The location of the Pride Fest is Boystown. The parade begins at noon on Sunday, June 26 at Montrose Avenue and Broadway in Uptown and ends near the intersection of Diversey Parkway and Sheridan Road in Lincoln Park. The best viewing spots are on Halsted Street, between Belmont Avenue and Grace Street.

Last year’s Pride Parade was awesome. Steinmetz GSA members

and alumni were in the parade with the Chicago Teachers Union.“We march with the CTU float,” teacher Elizabeth Zaluba said.

“I think it’s the idea of being a participant in the greater LGBTQ community is just plain fun. You feel like a rock star.” •

By Daria Velazquez

The Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, has programs for 13-24 year olds who identify themselves as lesbian, bisexual,

gay, transgender, questioning and even allies. It’s a a safe space where help is available to those who are struggling.

“Our youth program creates a safe and confidential environment for young people,” (centeronhalsted.org/youth).

The center offers many opportunities. For example, a program called Youth Workit! pro-vides youth with support around developing employment related skills like completing and submitting job applications and writing resumes.

The Youth Center has a medical clinic, of-fering free HIV testing, counseling and transi-tioning information, on Mondays. It provides legal help on Wednesdays. Founded in 1978, the youth program first started off with only 10 members, now more than 1,600 young people across the Chicago area are served there. Every Friday is “free hangout day” for teens. •

By Daria Velazquez

The Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) wel-comed several speakers this year who shared their experiences. Katy Thomas

and Carol Averhart spoke to GSA in January. Katy Thomas talked about how she’s been

wanting to be who she really was since she was four. She said she “wished to be a girl.” She spoke about her goals to transition. She was only able to truly start her transition while she was in her 50’s. Because she has three kids and a wife it was a struggle for acceptance, but she said that her wife knew since they were very young who they wanted to be.

Katy has joined many trans communities and has been a speaker in seminars to help others who may be going through the same, to show they were not alone. A reminder: No-vember 1 is Trans-Parent Day.

Sharon Lua, a 2013 Steinmetz graduate, spoke to GSA in March. Sharon described be-ing bullied from middle school and throughout high school, once even sent to a psychiatrist for wearing makeup to school during their middle school years.

A note about Gender Identity Pronouns (GIPs): Sharon Lau chooses the pronouns they, their, them. Steinmetz GSA member junior Jade Aguilar said “a big thing in the trans community is names and GIPs. For example: She/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/their or ze. This is very important if you want to be trans-inclusive. We are now living in a world where we have so many people who identify using different pronouns. Education is key.”

Sharon had huge support from their mother which can be unusual. “Not that many people have that type of support,” they said. Their mother knew about everything since Sharon was younger and supported them the whole way. When it comes to advice, Sharon said that transitioning means to show who you are; it’s not all about medicine and “it’s how you care for yourself.”

“A lot of people think that if you don’t get surgery you are not transgender or trans enough,” Jade said, “but transgender is an umbrella term, which means it can mean a lot of things and just because you don’t want surgery does not make you any less trans. Some people feel comfortable with the sex they were assigned at birth, like me. I have found a lot of other ways to express my identity, like by wearing makeup or clothing of the gender I identify with.”•

LGBTQ youth welcome at Halsted Center

Transgender info

Steinmetz graduate Michael Newson (right) with his husband John at the Pride Parade, 2015. Gay marriage became legal in Illinois in June 2014 and in the nation in 2015.


Star Seniors: Top Ten8


Ihave officially known Ashley for two years, but we have grown close in such a short time. I always like to joke that we are two

peas in a pod because of how well we get along, no matter how much we annoy the crap out of each other. I think our chemistry works so well because we’re similar, yet different enough to keep our conversations interesting.

We have debated silly subject matters like why my beloved dogs are much better than her precious kitties, whether or not I said certain things (I swear this girl always puts words in my mouth, or exaggerates what I said) and Kanye vs. Taylor Swift. (You cannot tell me that T-Sizzle is a better artist than Yeezy. I’m sorry, but you just can’t. Ashley will tell me the same about her girl.)

Our debates really go nowhere and our re-buttals usually consist of childish teasing, but they keep us entertained and we mock each other out of love. At the end of the day, we’re both just kids at heart.

The first time I really got to know her was on the last day of school sophomore year since she was throwing a party at her house, which is literally two blocks away from mine. I honestly went to the party just to spend time with a mutual friend who I liked at the time, but I also became acquainted with Ash. We talked regularly throughout the summer, but I like to think that we didn’t officially become best friends until during November of junior year, in my favorite shared memory with her.

We went to a friend’s house, and at some

point, we ran out of chips or drinks or some-thing. We both volunteered to go to the nearby CVS and pick some up. I knew the area better than her, but not as well as I thought. Being the stereotypical male, I decided to lead the way without bothering to look up directions. I ended up taking a wrong turn, and in our “adventure” to find a CVS that was only a few blocks away, we walked more than a mile before realizing we were lost. We just kept wander-ing, somehow winding up at the Walgreens by Hanson Stadium which is way off course from our original destination. A five-minute trip turned into a 45-minute trek.

She was a good sport throughout. At a time when most people probably would have been calling me an idiot, we were basically laughing the whole time at my mistake. That trip would not have been as entertaining as it was if I had

gone with anyone else besides Ashley Bashley. At that moment, I knew that we were going to be two peas in a pod for a long time.

Since that time, she has grown to be one of the most dependable people I have ever known. She is one the few people I go to whenever I just need to vent. She has been so kind and generous and she even baked me cupcakes as belated birthday gift.

She can be a total pain in the neck, espe-cially when I owe her money (in the words of the great Martin Lawrence, “I don’t have no money and I don’t have no ends! I’m ass-out! I’m going through something right now! I done told you that!”). However, I know that at the end of the day she cares about me and she just wants to see me happy.

She definitely keeps me down to earth by always bursting my bubble, but I still love her to death. When I say she bursts my bubble, I mean she either trolls me just to annoy me or she just makes me look at the bigger picture, which may not always be something I agree with. In a way, she has been my conscious because of the how she always makes me look at the ramifications of my decisions. She is the Jiminy Cricket to my Pinocchio.

I wish you nothing but the best, Ashley. I see only good things in your future, but only if you keep a positive attitude. You can get real pessimistic at times, and I won’t be there to cheer you up in college. Also, don’t let critics get to you. I don’t know how many times I have to remind you, if you ain’t got haters, you ain’t poppin’. Stay bubbly, sister-girl, and stay out of trouble. Worst case scenario, I can bail you out, but I expect you pay me back plus interest.•

“She came to the U.S. illegally from Poland and was only allowed to stay because my dad was born here,” Ashley said. “She worked three jobs. She really raised my dad her own since she lost two husbands, one in Poland and one in America shortly after my dad was born. She’s told me stories of all the hard times, including going out on the street and asking people for money, but she said it was all worth it when she sees me being so successful in life and at school.”

Her babcia has every right to be proud because Ashley is going to pursue a career in nursing at Illinois State University. Ashley plans to fully immerse herself in the school and culture just as she did in Steinmetz by joining as many activities as she can handle.

Through all the good and bad times in high school she learned a lot, calling high school the “training wheels” years part of life. She said she regrets letting stress get to her, but she knows that high school is supposed to be most “sucky” part of life.

“Ms. Doyle taught me that high school is supposed to be the worst part of life because of hormones, drama and our inability to do certain things, but I should not have let problems get to me,” Ashley said.

“I realized during senior year that high school prepares you for the real world because you have to learn to work with people that you don’t agree with, or even like, but you just have to focus on yourself and be able to depend on yourself to get the job done,” she said, offering excellent advice for the underclassmen.

As for the people she wants to thank, Ashley shouts out to the following:

Assistant Principal Cheryl Williams, cheerleading coach Emily Holley and IB and MYP coordinators NancyAnne Ferrarini and Katherine Doyle, for having a strong impact on her as mother figures in her life;

Zaneta Marcinik, whom Ashley calls her love and wants to thank for being such an amazing friend;

Lukasz Rudka and Bart Labno, for being two of her favorite people and best friends;

Karla Miranda, her best friend since the fourth grade and with whom she can’t believe she is still friends;

Kienna Bariso and Alicia Urquizo, lifelong friends with whom she cannot wait to make new memories;

Her parents for being strict for good reasons; Her boyfriend Colin Quaglia, for all the sweet things he

does for her, like pack her lunch or help her with homework;

and the most important person her life, her dear and lovely friend, Alejandro Hernandez, for being such an incredibly nice person and for volunteering to write all this nice stuff about her when she is secretly a pain in the neck.

The Star interviewed Karla Miranda about Ashley.How would you describe Ashley?She is very independent. She has always been a leader and

very helpful. Knowing her for nine years, there have been plenty of times I have wanted to slap her because she can be somewhat controlling while planning, but I still love her be-cause she will always be there to help no matter what you do to her. She will always try to help you, and even if you don’t tell her what’s wrong, she always knows and will do whatever she can to make you happy.

How would you describe her as a student?She knows how to get work done. She is definitely not a

procrastinator. She has great time management skills and is really good at focusing, which is unlike a lot of IB students.

In what ways has she influenced you?She taught me that if you want something done, you don’t

ask any people. If you want any job to be done right, you have to do it herself.

The Star also interviewed Ms. Ferrarini.How would you describe Ashley as a student?She is wonderful, hard-working and thoughtful.

What sets her apart from a lot of students is that she tries to internalize and use what she is learning. She is active and puts into practice what she hears, sees and learns. She has left an impact on IB and this school by being a role model for students she has come in contact with.

How would you describe her as a person?Lovely, thoughtful, generous. She has been gener-

ous with herself, her time, her feelings and concern. She is well-rounded. She’s a good friend and has solid time management that has allowed her to from many oppurtunities. Ashley has been a true friend and helped others with their learning and experiences.

How do you think she will do in college?I think Ashley will embrace all opportunities col-

lege will provide. She will do well and behave just as she did here, but better, because she will be exposed to more opportunities.

How has Ashley changed over the last few year?Ashley walked through the doors of Steinmetz

as a freshman with a good head on her shoulders. She has only become more focused and determined over the years. Each year brings all of us unique challenges, and she is no different, but it is refreshing to see a young person meet each one head on, with persistence and character.

What type of impact has she had on IB?IB is a holistic education. The individual subjects push stu-

dents to work at the college level. TOK (theory of knowledge) introduces students to philosophy. CAS (creativity, action, service) allows for experiential learning. And the extended essay simulates post-secondary research. You have to be ambitious to allow yourself to be pushed in all of these ways simultaneously. For Ashley, IB wasn’t a set of requirements; she really saw each of these components as opportunities for learning and growth.

Are there any anecdotes you can share?I once put Ashley to work with group of her colleagues to

accomplish something for our program, and one of the people she was working with had a hard time completing the assigned task. You might expect someone in that kind of situation to step up and handle the task, and I expected Ashley, being a natural leader, to do just that. But that is quite not what she did.

Instead, she talked to that student about his character and reminded him about his own abilities. She laughed with him over shared experiences. She helped him find the ability to excel in the situation. Her leadership was in helping another student realize he had the confidence to lead, too. That showed me how sincere and genuine Ashley is.•

Valedictorian Ashley Komperda embraced learning and many activities Continued from Page 1

Cheerleading team captain Ashley Komperda (right) and other seniors receive flow-ers from Coach Emily Holley. Ashley shouts out to her squad on Page 27.

A great friend whose initiative led to world-famous comedian Hannibal Buress agreeing to return to his alma mater for graduation

Ashley poses with one of the Star’s awards at the McCormick Media luncheon in March.

After vale-dictorian Ashley

Komperda reached out in the fall, come-dian Hannibal Buress agreed to be the keynote speaker at this year’s gradua-tion. Mr. Buress (33) is recognized as one of the funniest men in entertain-ment. See www.steinmetzstar.com for information about his TV shows, movie appearances and stand-up performances.

The idea to invite him was conceived by Alejandro Hernandez, but it was Ashley who took the initiative to email him and follow up with him. Mr. Buress agreed only if he received the yearbooks he lost as compensation.

His memories about his days in the late 1990s at Steinmetz, quoted in a 2014 Chicago Magazine article, include:

“My group of friends at Steinmetz were real f___ups. They were real f___ups. They were cutting class, smoking weed, stealing, flipping the desk—a lot of crazy stuff.”

While everyone is eagerly anticipating the June 15 graduation speech, no one really knows what to expect.

Hannibal tweeted in late March about the event after the Chicago Tribune re-ported it: “I’m speaking at my high school’s graduation. This was a bad deci-sion by all parties involved.”

On June 8, he responded to Star re-porter McKenzie Lacefield’s Twitter mes-sage to him about his speech. “excited to do it,” he replied. “it’s gonna be weird.” •

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Star Seniors: Top Ten 9

By Alec Reyes

I bet you all have heard of the saying, “Never settle for less than your best.” I certainly have adapted that phrase to multiple points of

my life, both in and out of school, and many successful things have come out of the things that I have accomplished.

I was inspired to continue pursuing a high-er degree of knowledge of everything being taught, and on the side, developing relation-ships with the people that I met throughout my four years here at Steinmetz.

I was so grateful to come across many boys and girls who have treated me with so much respect and admiration, and in the process I have developed so much, due to their support and encouraging me to do new things.

I can still think back to the very first day of school, as a freshman entering this new world for the first time. From not knowing what the heck ‘mods’ were, to having to interact with new faces and walking into the wrong class-room for 1st period (yes, I actually have done that). But in all honesty, it’s the support that brought me to be where I am today – at the top 10 and very confident about the future.

Let’s face it, being a bit shy can be a little rough around the edges at times, especially for me. But that’s not to say that we all have a little exciting factor or hidden knack for say singing, or playing the guitar, etc. And most of these things are usually revealed in due time.

Quoting directly from one of my closest friends from outside of school: Most things worth having don’t come easy or quickly, when in fact, it seems to be a long, drawn out process testing our faith time and time again. As we use our patience and continue putting in so much trust throughout the storms of life, we can find joy in the journey and not only walk through the rain, but dance in it too.

Becoming successful really requires you to put in every ounce of effort in you. As long as we continue to persevere, then anything can be accomplished, with a little help along the way of course.

I would like to send shout outs to literally every single one of my teachers that I have had, including those that I have met out of the blue and gotten to know a bit. More prominently, these are a few teachers that I really want to address for they have given me a lot of support and encouragement as well.

To Ms. Rezny, my homeroom teacher, for all she has done during my first few years here at Steinmetz; to Mr. Mink for being the best history teacher ever; to Ms. Ochwat, for always telling me and my classmates to never give up; to Mr. Ochoa, for always giving the students a great amount of understanding and support; to Ms. Mark, for all the extremely useful tech-niques and tips in creating artwork.

I wouldn’t know where I would be without any of my teachers. But of course, I need to also give a shoutout to Principal Stephen Ngo, for making this school the best it can be and putting so much dedication into creating more great years for the yearbooks.

Life itself is one of the biggest journeys we will ever take. Just like with roller coasters, there will always be a few twists and turns on the path to excelling and succeeding, but we can choose to continue going straight and nar-row in order to achieve our goals. I know that I have become a greater person over time, due in part to making good decisions and giving others the kindness and same support that has been given to me.

My family has been with me all the time, and we progressively help each other to be the best that they can be, no matter if the task is a cinch or burdensome. Even as it comes to homework and projects, my dad has always been very supportive and always informing me to continue focusing and working hard to achieve anything. He has always said he would be proud of me in everything as long as I loved it and worked hard at it. This is the reason why I decided to join drama club, doing something that I have always loved ever since getting to read out of Shakespeare books during class when I was an MYP student.

I want to grow into an influential man and have a wonderful family with people who help each other and offer many suggestions. Know-ing that one day I will be a father is exciting because then I will get the chance to share what I have learned and build up my children’s minds with everything they need to know.

Even if the workload may have been over-whelming at times, especially getting into ju-nior and senior years, all the time spent work-ing on it has its benefits. I encourage all of you reading this to never give up, stay focused to the task and strive to do your best and at least get a passing grade rather than blowing off the whole assignment or test or anything on that matter.

Every graduating class of the school year is the future of the nation of the U.S. and we should be proud of doing service to the coun-try in any way we can. From love, laughter, and strength, as long as you are doing what you loved and thought about becoming ever since you were little, then there will always be success.

I have been so grateful to have come across so many people in both drama club and during school who have shown so much kindness to me, and I will always keep those memories inside of my heart. And that’s a promise I will never break.•

By Ashley Komperda

T here are many seniors who could be recognized for different things that they do here at Steinmetz College

Prep. Students could be recognized for their athletics, academic excellence, and their abil-ity to manage things. If there is one student who is the perfect example of all three, it would be Alicia Urquizo.

Alicia is an IB student who is ranked number three in the senior class and contin-ues to participate in after school activities. She attended Steinmetz for all four years and managed to maintain a high rank on the Top Ten board every year. During her first two years, Alicia was able to advance to the regional, city, and state science fair. Her dedication towards her academics is admirable.

When junior year came along Alicia de-cided that it was time for a change, so she joined cross country, cardio club and track. Aside from all of her after school activi-ties, she also works during the week and the weekends.

There have been many things that she has had to overcome this year. Many obstacles were thrown her way, but she was able to rise to the top. Alicia is nothing less than a smart, strong young lady.

The Star interviewed Alicia, who shared some her unique insights

What is your favorite memory of high school?

My favorite memory would have to be going to Japan. It was an amazing experience and it opened up my eyes to a lot. It was a new experience for me because I had never been out of the country before nor have I ever been on an airplane. The trip contained a lot of new things for me to try.

Why did you choose DePaul for col-lege?

DePaul is in my hometown. I love Chi-cago and I think that the area that DePaul is in is absolutely beautiful. I have been to DePaul for a few IB workshops with some of my classmates and I fell in love with it. I think DePaul has great opportunities for me. I want to take my first year to look into the routes I want to take for the future.

What did you enjoy about participat-ing in sports?

I like that you get to meet people’s true personalities. People don’t really show who they are in the classroom. You kind of meet the real them outside of the classroom, en-gaging in something that they love. Sports is the perfect example of that.

Do you want to thank or send a shou-tout to anyone?

I want to thank Angel Quintero for being there for me every step of the way. When things were tough, he was always there for me. I also want to thank the IB seniors for being there for me when I needed them the most.

Do you have advice for underclassmen?Listen to the adults in your life. As teen-

agers, our first instinct is to choose not to listen to them, but as we get older we realize that they are right.

Interviews with othersAlicia became captain of the track team

and the president of the cardio club her se-nior year. The Star interviewed her coach Abel Pereyra.

What made you choose Alicia to be your captain?

It’s a combination of things that I look for in a captain and Alicia shows that com-bination. Her team trusts her and recognizes her leadership skills. I’m lucky to have her.

She knows what needs to happen and she makes it happen. I don’t have to follow up with her. She knows what to expect. If we are at a meet she takes over things for me so I don’t have to worry about them. She eases the weight on my shoulders. I have set the bar for these girls and she jumped over that bar.

What is your favorite thing about Ali-cia?

It is difficult to have one favorite thing about her, so I have to pick multiple. I appre-ciate her ability to look at a problem, see the big picture, and offer solutions immediately. She offers solutions quickly. It’s kind of like she has this other intelligence that I don’t have. Many times at competitions, she will say these suggestions that will ease my mind.

Another thing is that she has this sensitiv-ity towards others and it is amazing. I think that if you have one or two Alicias as friends, then you are set. If she believes in you, you know you can count on her.

The Star also interviewed Alicia’s boy-friend Angel Quintero.

What are your favorite things about Alicia?

She is great at handling things. She is both gentle and strong.

I have many favorite things about her actually. I think that her eyes are beautiful. They change color during different types of weather. It’s really unique. She also has these facial expressions that no one else has and I really like that about her.•

Alec Reyes, inspired to succeed Alicia Urquizo, all-around dedication

Alec Reyes, #2 Alici Urquizo, #3

In addition to the work they put into academics, both Alec and Alicia participated in extra curriculars. Alec was a member of the drama club and acted in the school plays. Alicia ran track and cross country. Both will be attending DePaul University where Alec will be studying game design and Alicia will major in pre-med.

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Star Seniors: Top Ten10

By Kienna Bariso

Entering high school was not exactly something I was looking forward to, due to how I was not expecting to

go to Steinmetz. Four years here has re-ally toughened me up, in a good way. I have more confidence in speaking, reaching deadlines and staying up to finish assign-ments, yet I do believe that I missed out on “high school.”

I was in MYP/IB throughout the whole four years and I have seen people come and go, and I have seen it myself that people toughened up. The program is not easy, it makes you work hard. I do believe that there is a fine line between enjoying your high school life and just doing work. Yet, I think it got to the best of me.

If I didn’t work hard, I would not have been able to go to Japan on a foreign ex-change or to the college I’m going to attend. My hard work paid off, but outside the classroom mattered just as much to me.

I was able to join many programs and teams here at Steinmetz. After School Mat-ters Painting and Drawing improved my skills in art, Half Marathon Team gave me a start for my passion to run, and Cross Country and Track and Field gave me a push to keep going.

I was not expecting or planning to go to Steinmetz, but I realized none of it mat-tered at the end. It’s not what school I go to, but what I do here. I could go to a top academic high school in Chicago, and do nothing, or I could do all of these things here, and it would mean so much more.

Hard work does pay off at the end if you’re patient, and at the end of these four years it’s worth the wait. •

By Izabella Kulik

Zaneta Marcinik is graduating in the Top 10, an incredible accom-plishment after moving here from

Poland her sophomore year and knowing only a little bit of English.

“Everything is possible and possibilities are out there,” she said.

She said she was not scared her first day of school in the United States because she knew she could handle whatever would happen. However, she said, “I felt like in prison because of the uniform policy, metal scanners, security all over and wild people; but after time passed I got used to it.”

After learning English, Zaneta did not feel like she belonged in regular classes.

“One of my teachers told me about IB, how people have a positive attitude for life and work, which is the key to survive and succeed,” she said. “IB gave me better preparation and challenged me to think differently. When it comes to my classmates and my teachers they have always strived for more and pushed me to my strongest. I could always count on them, not only when I struggled with academics but also with personal life. Even though sometimes I did not like IB, it made me stronger, because I felt that I was wasting my time in regular classes, while trying to complete the pointless worksheets.”

Zaneta explained further, that everyone should seek the best course for themselves.

“I am not saying that IB is for everybody. It was a right path for me, and everybody who has a goal and tries to reach out for it, is somebody to me,” she said. “Sometimes academics and 4.0 GPA do not guarantee the success. Some people are good at music, art or sports. My message for the under classmates is that they should never stop and always push themselves, to show that they can be better from the people they were the day before. Our mission is to find the best solutions.”

She can now look back and see how she made it through chal-lenging times.

“My senior year brought a lot of struggles and disappointments, but I started to discover myself and from the perspective of time I can see my mistakes and who my friends are,” Zaneta said. “I met a lot of people who pushed me to work my butt off. Not only my great teachers and awesome friends, but also people who told me that I will not accomplish much because it will be ‘too hard.’ Well, I am proving them wrong.”

In college she wants to study engineering “because it is an innovative field with countless possibilities and I like being chal-lenged,” she said. “I have been accepted to engineering pathways at Wright College and after two years and maintaining the 3.6 GPA I have a guaranteed acceptance to University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. After getting my degree and being done with the school, I want to travel the world”

The Star interviewed one of her teachers, Yurida Espinosa.

“Zaneta is a hard working, dedicated, help-ful student; determined in what she is doing,” Ms. Espinosa said. “She is very positive with all the students. In the future, I see her graduat-ing, reaching all her goals and becoming an engineer.”

Over three years, Zaneta has participated in a variety of activities at Steinmetz. She won one of the school chess tournaments, com-peted with the Academic Decathlon team and participated in PRAA Latin Music Project, After School Matters Spanish Dance. She has been a member of the National Honor Society, acted in the drama club productions of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Macbeth” and reported stories for the Star. This year she served as the Star’s co-editor-in-chief.

Another one of her honors was earning the State Seal of Biliteracy.

Outside of school she spends time with my family and friends, listens to music, plays the guitar and does origami. She is also a part of Lednica 2000 Association, which is a Catholic movement gathering teenagers to deepen their faith.

“My favorite quote is by Pope John Paul II: ‘You must make demands from yourself, even if others make no demands from you,’ Zaneta said.

An attitude like hers is amazing. Her faith and religious beliefs make her stronger. Zaneta swims through the struggles with the support of her mom and her little brother. She is a student you can count on. She knows what is right and strives for it.

She is a one-of-a-kind, very dedicated and honorable. She appears happy, even in hard times. She is loyal to her peers and teachers.

“Zaneta is one of my good friends,” Bart Labno said. “She is always there for me and I am always there for her.”•

By Venice Gonzalez

In addition to Karla Miranda’s dedication to ac-ademics, shown in her class rank, she is known for always being cheerful. Senior Kienna Bariso

characterized her as “realistic and positive.” “When it comes to problem solving, Karla

doesn’t think about the bad things, she thinks positively, with reason,” Kienna said.

Karla has a tough and bright spirit. During her years at Steinmetz she played volleyball and participated in ASM. She worked at Kmart dur-ing her senior year. She will be attending UIC. Her career goal is to be a nurse.

The Star interviewed Karla earlier this year.What do you like to do in your free time?I like to watch movies, specifically action and

comedy. I also like to listen to music and create stipple [an artform made with dots].

What’s your favorite song?My favorite song is “Feel Real” by Deptford

Goth because I like mellow songs; it’s peaceful.If you could have dinner with anyone, who

would it be?My grandmother, because the last time I

planned to go see her I didn’t get to see her and she died shortly after that.

If you could be an animal, what would it be?I would be a tiger because they’re fast, scary

and cool.If you were a fruit, what would you be?A peach because they are fuzzy and my fa-

vorite fruit.If you could choose a different first name,

what would it be?I wouldn’t because I would be very confused.What is your favorite memory here?Sophomore year during art, I got accepted to

an art contest and got to show my stipple janiform which I called, “Hopes and Fears.”

A favorite memory from your childhood?I was around 8 years old with my cousins, all

different ages, sitting on the front steps of my house when we saw two white bunnies with red eyes. They let us touch them and they eventually became my pets. It’s my favorite memory because it was after a really fun day with no worries and I got two new pets out of it.

The Star interviewed Kienna Bariso, who has known Karla for four years and became good friends with her at the beginning of junior year.

What is your favorite memory with Karla?It was on an ASM field trip. We were starting

to get close and she wanted to take a picture with me, which surprised me.

If you could tell her anything what would it be?

Life goes on and everything will be okay.The Star interviewed Karla’s boyfriend Ste-

ven Nunez.What makes Karla wonderful is that she’s one

of a kind.She thinks about things nobody has ever thought of and it blows my mind every time. She’s very smart, with a sense of humor like call-ing people cheese-balls. She’s an amazing artist, who has a lot of patience when she’s stippling in her sketchbook. •

Kienna will be attending UIC in the fall, majoring in nursing. “She is one the best people I know,” Kienna’s friend Karla Miranda said. “She is selfless and will always go out of her way to help others. Whenever you need help, she’s there for you. Having met her four years ago, I am incredibly grateful to have gotten to know her. “Kienna is talented and beautiful with an amazing soul. She is smart, knows how to innovate and loves you regardless of your decisions. She’s rare, the kind of person you never forget.”

Zaneta Marcinik’s faith keeps her focussed

Kienna Bariso, happy to have participated in a variety of Steinmetz activities

Karla Miranda, upbeat and tough

As part of her art installation, Zaneta encouraged people who viewed it to take a hat to remind them of the plight of the homeless.

Zaneta Marcinik, #5

Karla Miranda, #4

Kienna Bariso, #6

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Star Seniors: Top Ten 11

By Jose Padilla

Transitioning from my elementary school to Steinmetz was a big change. I didn’t know how high school was going to be, but I was

ready to do my best. I started my freshman year by taking regular

classes. I was doing well in my classes, and some of my teachers started to notice that I didn’t be-long in their classes. They believed that I should be taking more rigorous classes. My computer teacher Kim Daughenbaugh recommended me to the IB program.

I joined the MYP/IB program in the second semester of my freshman year. It was difficult in the beginning, but I eventually got used to the courses.

I’ve always liked to play sports. I joined the Half Marathon club in my first three years of high school, the volleyball team for my last three years and soccer in my senior year.

Playing sports in high school was a unique expe-rience. I enjoy every part of sports, and I definitely recommend every student to try out a new sport.

The classes that I had, the sports and clubs I joined, and the people that I met in high school have made high school a great experience. I will never forget the memories I made in Steinmetz. •

By Zaneta Marcinik

Due to her hard work, Magda Her-nandez is one of the best students in the Class of 2016. Magda took

honors classes her freshman year then switched into the MYP classes her soph-omore year and was in the International Baccalaureate Programme (IB) her junior and senior years.

She will pursue her education in Ani-mal Science at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign because she loves ani-mals and wants to help them by becoming a veterinarian.

She enjoyed her high school experience because of the people she met in the IB Programme and she hopes to stay close with her friends.

“I encourage people to join the IB Pro-gramme because it enriches the academics and study skills and you can make new friendships,” she said.

Being successful in IB is a huge ac-complishment. She needed to focus on her studies and do a lot of work. She said that academics were her priority, then sports and social life.

Magda was on the volleyball team and the captain of the varsity team her senior year. Joining the team gave her the oppor-tunity to meet new people and compete against other schools.

One of her academic honors was win-ning the first place in the regional science fair and advancing to the city science fair.

“It was a great experience because I had the opportunity to compete and be closer with other people, as well as spend time with friends,” she said. “I could develop my skills in microbiology and it was a fun experience.”

Magda’s favorite memories of Stein-metz are the senior corn maze event and the trip to Japan.

“I remember the corn maze because we had to stay until 3:00 in the morning and a lot of things were going on,” she said. “It was raining and we were trying to hide. Japan was an unique experience because I

9have never been outside the United States and it is something I will never forget.”

Magda’s teacher and volleyball coach Marie Chaparro praised Magda for her many great qualities.

“Not a lot of people acknowledge stu-dents like Magda,” Ms. Chaparro said. “She evolved from a quiet, shy freshman to a leader that she is now. She is a hard-working person with a big heart. She has always focused on her studies, trying to be perfect. We need more students like her. Volleyball made her even a stronger leader. She played no matter what, even with the sprained ankle.”

Ms. Chaparro said that Magda is “shy and sensitive at the beginning, so that’s why some people might not see that she has the characteristics of the leader. People usually do not see this side of her.”

Ms. Chaparro believes Magda will suc-ceed: “She will do great in college because IB prepared her to be an independent and focused student.”

To gather more information about Magda, the Star interviewed Magda’s best friend Stephanie Alonso, who has known her for three years.

“Magda is a really caring, and respon-sible person,” Stephanie said. “She never gives up. She is close with her mom. I think what makes us best friends is I look up to Magda with appreciation and take upon her characteristics. Maggie helped and supported me on my way and never left me alone, she always has my back.”

“What makes us the best friends is the random and awkward stuff that happens every day,” she added. “We understand each other and laugh at each other’s jokes. To maintain a friendship like this you need to always be truth and honest towards each other. I will never find another Maggie and I do not want to replace her with anybody else. We will still be in touch once we are in college.”

Noting Magda’s interest in becoming a veterinarian, Stephanie said: “She is very sentimental towards animals, even insects, and she feels hurt when somebody does something harmful to them.”

Stephanie has a message for her friend: “Maggie, never give up. Always reach

for the best. I know you are a strong person, who loves laughing at my jokes. We are a duo and always get each other. Thanks for understanding me and loving me for who I am. You are the best. One and only.” •

By Yesenia DeLuna

Lukasz Kuczynski is a JROTC cadet, gradu-ating in the Top Ten of the Class of 2016. He will be attending the University of

Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, majoring in in-ternational business.

While at Steinmetz, he played soccer and ran cross country and track and worked at Rich’s Fresh Market. A favorite memory of his was going on the trip to Japan.

The Star interviewed Lukasz about his suc-cess.

What do you do to maintain your grades? Do all my work on time, never wait till

last minute.Advice for underclassmen?Having good grades isn’t enough, you have

to do way more. Get out there and participate.

What do you do on your free time?I either hangout with friend or workout.What are your hobbies?I like to running, playing music and breakdancing. How do you balance sports and education? I put education first before sports.

The Star interviewed teacher Re-nato Roldan, who had many great things to say about Lukasz:

He’s exactly what you want in a stu-dent. He’s respectful, concerned, honest, very pragmatic, intense to raise the expec-tation that you have of him. He always sets the bar and standards of the class.

He’s not just stuck in the books and in his studies. He’s an all around athlete and in the beginning stages of becoming a B-boy.

He’s not easily distracted and knows how to focus and remove himself when he needs to centralize his studies. Give me a thousand Lukaszes and I’ll rule the world.•

Magda Hernandez, caring and responsible

Lukasz Kuczynski, intense athlete and scholarJose Padilla enjoyed many sports and clubs

Jose Padilla, #7

Lukasz Kuczynski, #8

Magda Hernandez, #9

Jose will be attending UIC. His career goal is to become a pharmacist. In addition to sports, Jose participated on the Academic Decathlon team. His advice to the underclassmen: “Don’t be afraid to take risks.”

Lukasz Kuczynski with Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel and CPS CEO Forrest Claypool at the Auditorium Theater on May 22. Lu-kasz earned a $1,000 scholarship, the 2016 CME Group Center for Innovation Mayoral Award for Student Achievement. He and 77 other CPS students were honored at a luncheon.

College-bound graduates prepared for more success


Star Seniors: Top 10 and Top 2012

By Raúl Costilla

It has been four years that went by fast, like nothing ever hap-pened before. And today, when

you’re doing something and time goes quick, know that our lives may not last long but our stories never end.

Ever since I came to Stein-metz, I heard the terrible things that people said about this school, which made me feel like I didn’t want to go. But things have changed, thanks to the people around me. In high school years, drama comes along but we live through it.

As an IB student, high school was complicated, but it gave me the motivation of challenge for years. The program helped me to prepare for my abilities, but it was very stressful to accomplish when dead-lines were due. As a track and field, cross country and half marathon athlete, I experienced my life running far away from home and back and con-tinuing my journey. As an artist, sketching brings me the mistakes to practice my failures and succeed in my abilities.

But what brings the passion in four years of high school happens like the speed of light. It wasn’t easy for me when many things happened very quickly, and many things happened very dramatically. I saw others transferring or leaving the school. I saw some losing their loved ones, and I started losing my mind when things were going bad and nothing going right. However, I continued my education and activities, from accomplishing excellent grades in my IB classes and participating in After School

Matters, National Honor So-ciety, cross country, track and field, half marathon club and student voice committee.

There are always good people around, even though many of us have a hard time finding a new habit. It feels really hard for me to take the next chapter.

For many years, I haven’t been an outspoken person; I’m always shy and quiet, and I really don’t participate much nor take action. I always keep thinking to myself about the past that haunts me, although I managed to change that.

This brings me to what is called a paradox which I’ve never been before.

When there’s a problem I focus my issue and evaluate my purposes, although this is not what I experienced when I wrote this article for the Stein-metz Star. It’s my first time doing this, but I did my best and sorry I didn’t mean to break the fourth wall.

I’ve received help from many great people like my teachers, classmates, coaches, teammates, staff, and many more, and as well for my family.

Find something to believe in and find it for your-self. When you do, pass it on to the future. It’s not about changing the world, it’s about doing our best to leave the world the way it is. It’s about respecting the will of others and believing in your own.

And this is why I will continue like this in the future. It may be a challenge but possibly what’s there to challenge if you’re doing it every day from yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I always fought for what I believed in and so should you.•

By Rikeya Hargrove and Imari Walker

Venice Gon-zalez has been a great

inspiration to many people throughout her high school ca-reer. Many people love her, not only because she is smart and talented, but because she is a loyal and trustworthy friend.

She made the Top Ten because of her outstanding grades both as an MYP student and after she left the program in her regular, honors and AP classes during junior and senior year. She will be attending the Uni-versity of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign in the fall.

“She always had straight A’s,” said her older sister Valerie Padilla (2014). “She has a sharp mind. I’d even call her a genius. She always loved being on time. She never let anything stop her.”

Venice and her siblings had to deal with the terrible loss of their mom Marisol Mercado, who was killed in a car accident in July 2013. Venice said she owes her academic success to her mother.

“If my mom wasn’t as pushy as she was, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she said.

Ms. Mercado participated in the schools her children attended. At their elementary schools and then at Steinmetz she served as a parent representative on the Local School Council (LSC). After her death, the newly created Parent Resource Room was dedicated in her memory.

Even though Venice went through this loss, she held her head high and focused on her school work.

“One of my biggest accomplish-ments in my life was learning how to move past difficult things in my life,” she said.

Others have learned how to handle such hard times by seeing Venice.

“Venice lost her mom just three months after I lost my grandpa,” said her friend of four years Jailene Torres. “Being there to support her was hard, but I knew I had to because she was there for me when I needed it just a short while before. I still don’t know how she managed to get good grades even though she had lost the most important person in her life because when I lost mine, I fell apart. Venice inspired me to get myself together.”

Venice also has had to cope with the serious illnesses of her grand-mother and uncle and the death of her aunt. In addition, for years she was separated from her father and her siblings – older sister Valerie, her younger brother Carlos and younger twin sisters Marisol and Adelina.

“Even though we are not all to-gether physically, we are still a family,” Venice said.

Her prized possessions are a shirt her mom made and a photo of her mom.

Over the years at Steinmetz, Ven-ice joined a variety of activities. She played softball and basketball and participated in the drum line.

She joined poetry club to help bet-ter express herself.

Venice is able to express herself when she feels anger and hurt. Her blog posts and poetry bravely show such strong emotions. Venice said she loves music, writing, drawing, eating, sleeping, playing video games and tak-ing pictures/videos of her friends on Snapchat.

Venice’s friends think very highly of her. Jailene met her freshman year when they were both in MYP classes.

“When we started talking Venice told me that she was scared to ap-proach me at first because I seemed mean,” Jailene said. “That always makes me laugh because she pointed out certain things that I would do and I would’ve never realized I did those things if she hadn’t said something.”

With her honor roll grades and her intelligence Venice has been a great source to go to when help is needed.

“Venice has been a great role model for me,” said Jailene. “She’s always the first person I go to when I need help with homework. Whether it be her intellect in math or her creativity for art she knows how to do everything.”

Although her intelligence is very much appreciated, it isn’t the only thing her friends love about her.

“Venice is an amazing friend; she has had many struggles but she has never let them get in the way of giving great advice,” Jailene said. “If there’s one thing that I absolutely love about her it’s that she is always around to help someone else feel better. No mat-ter what situation she’s in, she puts others first. Another thing I love about her is her cute voice!”

Many teachers have treasured knowing Venice, who is an excellent student, as well as a kind, friendly, helpful, honest and trustworthy per-son. Ms. Stuber responded to the Star’s request for a comment by speak-ing directly to her student:

“Venice, you have a really good support system here at Steinmetz and in your family. You should also trust in yourself because you have a great head on your shoulders and you can accomplish whatever you believe in.”

When asked why Venice deserves to be in the top 20 of all seniors Mrs. Stuber said, “Venice is really smart and she been in a IB program. She really took on a work load, she deserves it.”

Venice’s teacher and softball coach Marie Chaparro also spoke to the Star.

“I love Venice,” Ms. Chaparro said. “She is smart, sweet, determined, car-ing and thoughtful of others. Since she was a freshman the on-going joke was she was my twin (from twin day). I’m going to miss my twin.”

She added: “All the best, Venice. I know you will go far in life.”•

Melanie Rolon’s advice: Cherish it now

Venice Gonzalez, striving for academic excellence

Raul Costilla, fighting for beliefs

Venice Gonzalez, #10

Raul Costilla, #11


Star Seniors: Top 20 13


Alejandro Alonzo, better known as Alex, leads a somewhat oxymoronic life. He is humble and hardworking,

but also manages to be one of the biggest slackers amongst his group of friends.

He likes to describe himself as laid-back and chill, which is also a fair assessment, yet he loves to party and has one of the highest motors of anyone you will ever see.

He considers his philosophy toward life as nihilistic, but you could never tell he was apathetic toward anything just from the way he tenderly holds his girlfriend like a precious flower, or how he embraces the fun that life offers. Either way, Alex lives his life the way wants to, and he’s succeeding at it.

Not a lot of students can excel in sports and academia while also being able to go on “bangers with his boys” every weekend, but then again, most students are not Alex.

“I’m not the best student, but I’m clutch when it matters,” he said, referring to his openly-admitted procrastination problem. If you know him, you’ve probably heard him say, “If you wait until the last minute, it only takes a minute.”

He was recently named an Illinois State Scholar, along with a handful of other Stein-metz students. He excels at math and science, and will go to UIC for software engineering. He also loves running on his free time (he is one of the best long distance runners on cross country and track), while also maintaining a healthy social life with his friends (he goes out on “rodeos” with his friends at least once a week). He has carried this lifestyle all the way to a top finish in the class.

He credits his strive for success to a couple of closely related role models, along with an unlikely one.

“I’m influenced by my parents to apply myself in school, and they pressure me to always succeed more, but my role model is Drake,” he says. “He’s always seeking revenge by being more successful than his haters.”

Don’t let his laid-back persona and goofy sense of humor fool you. Alex takes his work and life very seriously, but he chooses not to focus on any of the negativity. He opts to stay positive and appreciate the moment.

Another one of his catchphrases is “it’s lit,” which he will say in moments of fun as well as moments of distress. This is indicative

of his carefree life, which he says is based off of apathy toward everything in life, which is not entirely true.

Once you get to know him, you will learn that he just chooses not to get caught up in unimportant issues. Anyone close to him will say that he is a good friend that is always willing to lend a helping hand.

“He is very kind,” Kienna Bariso said. “It may be biased for me to say that since I’m his girlfriend, but even before we were dating, he was always kind and helpful. He helps me with me math all the time because I hate it.”

Alex is still human though, and his girl-friend is not afraid to put him in check.

“He is lazy and I have to motivate him

sometimes to do his work, which he does always do, even if it is late or not done right,” she said. “As for his role model, Drake, I think he can look up to better people because while Drake is a hard worker, the way he treats people is bad.”

As she said all of this, Alex sat beside her, staring in a stunned silence. His best friend Jose Padilla has been with Alex longer than anyone at Steinmetz.

“I have known him since the 6th grade, and he’s always been obsessed with Drake,” he said. “But in all seriousness, Alex is good friend, and even though he can be lazy at school, he is very smart.”

I have had the great pleasure of know-ing Alex for the last couple years and there is never a dull moment with him. He is a constant source of entertainment. He can make you laugh with the littlest things. He can also be serious at times and be a great source of help and advice.

His Drake fandom can get a bit annoying at times, but I cannot blame him since we are are one the same in that way. Much like how he is a proud Drake Stan, I am a self-proclaimed Kanye Stan. Together, we annoy the hell out of a lot of our friends with our musical preferences. I know that even after graduation, we Alejandros will continue to look out for each other.•

By Teresa Martinez

I have had many people encourage me to strive high. Those have been my family and teach-ers; they have always been there for me. My

family always told me throughout these years to give it all I had because at the end of the day it’s going to pay off and it has.

Being in the top 20 isn’t easy. It has been a big accomplishment for me and my family because their motivation has helped me reach to that point. Also getting scholarships for UIC and almost getting a full-ride has been a huge blessing for me. I plan to major in nursing.

Having straight A’s throughout all my four years of high school here at Steinmetz wasn’t easy, but also not impossible. When one wants to succeed, everything one wants to desire can happen – with dedication and effort. I always stayed busy with homework and class work and, most importantly, studied for tests because those are a big chunk of our grades. Having perfect attendance all these four years has been a big accomplishment, also.

I have been part of the track and cross coun-try teams as well as the cardio club.

All the effort I put in at Steinmetz to be where I’m at today is the effort I’m going to take with me to college to be successful.

My advice for others is always start strong and end strong, take every assignment seriously, because it matters, and stay out of trouble.

I want to thank my parents and siblings as well as every single teacher I have had for help-ing me and motivating me to be the person I am today. •

Hard workers obtain high grade point averages

Above: Students ranked in the Top 20 of the Class of 2016. The class ranks celebrated in this newspaper, and at the June 15 Class of 2016 gradu-ation ceremony, are based on students’ weighted GPAs only through first semester senior year. The final class rankings, which will show up on students’ final report cards and transcripts, will include grades from second semester of senior year. The final 2016 1-20 placements could change.

Teresa Martinez, all A’s and perfect attendance

Alejandro Alonzo, chill in his academic success

By Maria Reyna

During my four years at Steinmetz I never expected to be placed as one of the top 20. This whole experience was so dif-

ficult that for awhile I didn’t even bother to compete for the spot. But as I got closer to my senior year, I noticed how I changed in the way I saw students aiming for the top.

You don`t have to be perfect in order to get on the list, just manage to get your grades on check and to put effort in your work. The IB program does give an advantage for GPA.

Overall, it’s great that we pushed ourselves and are recognized for it. •

Maria Reyna, strong effort

Alex Alonzo, #12

Teresa Martinez, #13

Maria Reyna, #18

Milena Collazo, #15Marc Villapando, #14 Melanie Rolon, #16

Eyerusalem Coleman-Kitch, #19Javier Delgado, #17 Kacper Sip, #20

Top graduates are college-ready


Star Seniors14

By David Ciechanowski and Aleksander Samulak

Bart Labno is a hardworking student who is always working to do better in school. This year he was one of

the 12 students designated Illinois State Scholars, based on his grade point average through junior year and his high ACT score. He was also part of the Academic Decathlon team.

He is going to attend University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He is very happy with his college decision and says he is going to strive for greatness there.

He loves to socialize and do things out-side of school, such as running in the park. He had been a member of the Marthon club and the baseball team. He worked at the Montrose Deli.

He likes to go out with his friends and have a good time, and at the same time he is always learning from his peers and his teachers.

“Bartus has been a great support for me since we met,” Zaneta Marcinik said. “I can always count on him. Even though sometimes he is lazy, I am sure he will do amazing in college because he is able to motivate himself to do better. I just hope that the struggles he will face in the future will not result in the lack of his motivation.”

Everyone who knows Bart always had good things to say about him, never any-thing negative. He is going to great in col-lege and great in life. He studies a lot so he can make his family proud.

He is from Illkowice, Poland, a small town on the outskirts of Tarnow. His par-ents and sister all care for him and push him to do better in school. He says they help him push himself to the limit.

The Star interviewed Bart earlier this year.

Favorite class?

AP Biology.Hobbies? Reading, running.Pets? I have a dog named Daisy and a name-

less turtle.What influences you? Rap music videos.What are your future goals? To make more than $100,000 a year

in dirty money.How was your childhood? Beautiful.What superhero would you be? BartmanIf the zombie apocalypse came, who

would be on your team? Rosie McGurn, Abel Pereyra, and Aleks

Samulak.How do you feel about being an Il-

linois State Scholar? Accomplished and shocked.Is there any advice you would want

to tell the underclassmen about doing well in school?

Just get your life together.How do you prepare for college? Take four AP classes.•

By Kinga Tarasiewic

Jessica Buzawa is an accomplished senior. She has managed to maintain her grades and get accepted to more than ten col-

leges with scholarships. All of this did not come easy to her. She

worked very hard. With dedication and de-termination, goals will be achieved.

Jessica’s goal has mainly been to be in the fashion industry. A quote that kept her going was, “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.”

While being involved in drama, pageants, and multiple clubs, Jessica was motivated to be involved in college activities as well.

“Everything will payoff in the long run,” she said. “The decisions you make now, if it’s hanging out with a specific crowd or skipping a couple of classes, will reflect upon who you will become in the future.”

The Star interviewed Monika Buzawa, Jes-sica’s mom, who said that Jessica has always been a hard worker.

“She always did her work and wanted to make the family proud,” Ms. Buzawa said. “Jessica has always been determined so I’m confident she’ll follow her dream.”

Her teachers have also seen something special in her.

Jessica is “determined and dedicated,”

teacher Stephanie Walker said. “She preserves and never complains when it comes to doing hard work. Jessica is truly unique; she has her own style. She is who she is.”

The Star asked Ms Walker and Jessica’s friend Daniela Blas where they see her in ten years.

“I definitely see her in the art world, creat-ing new fashions and styles,” Ms. Walker said.

Daniela said, ”I see her owning a business.” “Jessica is a very loyal friend,” she added.

“She always wants to know what’s going on. Her grades are up and she is always dedicated towards her work.” •

By Camila Pina

Gissel Mendoza is a lovely person with a great personality and awesome leadership skills. She will be attending Concordia College next year.

Her career goal is to become a doctor. She transferred to Steinmetz at the beginning of

sophomore year. She joined the JROTC academy and right off the back took on a leadership roll. She ended up as Brigade Commander.

Gissel has also been in track, cross country, on the Star staff for two years, National Honor Society and senior amabassadors.

“I love my school,” she said. “It’s really accepting and you can really make something out of yourself if you want to.”

Sgt. Tammy Amaro says Gissel is “simply amazing.” She is the only daughter of of two children. Her mother and father, Laura and Arturo

Mendoza, are very proud of her. She ranks 27 out of 336 seniors. Congratulations to Gissel on all your accomplishments. •

By Wiljalisha Mollfulleda

Brian Geans is a funny, caring person. I met him my first day of high school. He made me laugh and after that we

clicked. We’ve been friends for four years and many more to come.

He likes to watch movies, draw, sleep and cook. He’s a strong person. He never had a problem coming out. He has a lot of support from his friends and family to be who he is and not to be afraid to show who he is. He doesn’t take anyone’s unnecessary comments.

Brian has been a good leader with Com-munities United and Voices of Youth Chicago Education, an organization that helps youth have a voice and stand up for what they be-lieve in.

Brian has also been a key member of the Steinmetz Star staff for three years.

“Brian has made the Star a superior paper,” adviser Sharon Schmidt said. “He reports on interesting events, reviews fascinating shows and takes amazing photos. I will miss his contributions to the Star and his wonderful

personality so much.”Brian is going to Northeastern Illinois

University to get a good education and start building his career and life.

He always participated in the Pride Parade with the Chicago Teachers Union to show his leadership and to help others not to be afraid about being a part of the LGBT com-munity. •

By Maya Robinson

The Star interviewed outstanding se-nior Desmaria Langford, who will be attending Illinois State Univer-

sity. What do you like to do?Eat,chill at home, go out with friends

and get my nails done.Future goals?My future goal is to be a lawyer or to

work for a big business. I want to make a lot of money and have a house with my future husband and kids.

How was your childhood?My childhood was pretty lit. I’ve been

on a lot of vacations.Where do you see yourself in the fu-

ture?I see myself being financially stable and

happy.What do you do to maintain your

grades? I participate in school events and ask

for extra credit.What do you do on your free time?During my free time I go out with my

friends and my boyfriend.What extra-curricular activities did

you do?Yes, I participated in cheerleading since

freshman year and track my junior year. I marched in the Hillsdie and Memorial Day

parades. I wish I had been more involved in JROTC.

Do you have any intentions of playing sports at your college?

I have thought about doing sports like cheerleading or something new that I’ve never did before.

What are important life values to you?It is important to stay positive and

speak up when something isn’t right.What have you learned at Steinmetz?I learned leadership in ROTC and how

to build friendships over time with new people.

What was a favorite memory?The Senior Lock-In was my favorite. I

wish I could do it again.•

Bart Labno, Illinois State Scholar,good friend

Gissel Mendoza, JROTC leader

Brian Geans, proud journalist

Jessica Buzawa, planning a future career in fashion

Desmaria Langford, staying postitive and speaking up


Star Seniors 15

By Frederick Crittendon Jr.

While Star co-editor-in-chief Ale-jandro Hernandez has already shared much personal writing – in

his piece last month about why he chose to go to DePaul University, in his article this issue about his friendship with class valedictorian Ashley Komperda, in his shout outs and in his music and movie reviews of the past four years – there is even more to say.

After this issue of the Star is old news, Ale-jandro will keep on saying it. He’ll be studying English and journalism in college. He intends to be a writer – for newspapers, freelance or even a novel.

“It’s not about the money,” he said. “I’m passionate about writing.”

Ever since the beginning of his freshmen year, Alejandro regularly submitted sports and entertainment articles to the Star. Even then his writing was strong and he had a distinct voice.

“When I got his first movie review in the fall of 2012, I searched the Internet because it was so good I thought he must have plagia-rized it from a published review,” Ms. Schmidt said.

In the summer following his freshman year, Alejandro participated in Columbia Links and was published in the city-wide magazine R-Wurd.

As both a junior and a senior, Alejandro won “Superior,” the top honor at the Mc-Cormick Media Awards, surpassing all other Chicago students who submitted pieces for the review category. He also picked up an “Excellent” award for his sports reporting.

“Alejandro is a great writer; he is a reader

and an interesting person, who is interested in other people and big ideas,” Ms. Schmidt said. “His humor, insights and passion shine through in his well-crafted work. Publishing his excellent writing for the past four years in the Star has been a delight.”

Academics and sportsAfter graduating from Sayre elementary,

Alejandro began Steinmetz in regular and hon-ors classes, then transferred to to the Middle Years/International Baccalaureate program in his sophomore year.

He was named an Illinois State Scholar this year after keeping up excellent grades through his junior year and obtaining a high ACT score. He participated in sports all four years, including football, basketball and track and field. His favorite teacher at Steinmetz was science teacher Abel Pereyra.

InfluencesHe has a lot of support and great role

models at home. He lives with his parents and older brother, who attends Columbia College, and his sister, who graduated from DePaul. He calls her “the most influential person” in his life.

He admires the outspoken Kanye West as well as Puerto Rican heroes Roberto Clemente and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Along with his friend Ashley, Alejandro was instrumental in getting world-famous come-dian Hannibal Buress, a Steinmetz alumnus, to agree to be the graduation speaker this year.

If there were a zombie apocalypse, Ale-jandro said his survival team would include Chuck Norris, Goku, Vegeta, Rhonda Rousey, Dave Chappelle and Chris Kyle.

In addition to books, movies, music and sports, Alejandro’s hobbies include “anything productive” and video games.

He said he will do any type of work that interests him if it’s something he’s devoted to.

Life values for Alejandro are “helping people, accepting myself for who I am and dispelling stereotypes.”

FriendsHis co-editor-in-chief of the Star and

friend Zaneta Marcinik describes Alejandro as a “deep thinker,” who is a great writer. She said he is helpful and open.

“He’s different, in a good way,” friend Ashley Komperda said. “He’s unique and he’s always there for people. He is able to tell when someone is down. He is very pas-sionate. Ale expresses his own opinions, but respects others’ opinions. He’s dependable and he’s a good sport.”

Ashley’s favorite memory with him was getting lost at a party around Prosser and finding out more about Alejandro.

“We were looking for a CVS and ended up getting lost,” she said. “I had left my phone at the party and he didn’t know how to work his. We were lost for about a hour and during that hour, we got to know each other, and I got to see the goofy side of Alejandro.”

FutureAlejandro is outspoken and intelligent. He

made it through a bad case of senioritis this year and now has nothing but positive vibes, something people love about him. This re-porter thinks he is a once-in-a-lifetime person.

At the close of his poem published in the April Star, Alejandro credits many people he said used “their platform to speak out against the negativity that plagues this world:”

“Thank you to anyone out there using the stage God gave them to stand on to preach a good message,” he writes. “This poem is dedicated to any and every person out there who gives a damn. Good will always outweigh the bad. Peace & Positive Vibes.”•

By Jacara Adams

Graduating senior Justyn Wil-liams impressed many people here with his loving personal-

ity and athletic skill after transferring here from Saint Joseph.

At Steinmetz, Justyn played foot-ball and basketball and was a member of the track and field team. He was part of OneGoal.

Justyn will be attending North Park College for engineering. He was recruited to be on the football team.

He comes from a big house of funny people. They have five turtles, ten fish and also a dog. He said that Steinmetz taught him to not be lazy and to never be shy.

Friends and teammates say Justyn is a cool guy. He has much potential and is easy going. He just a smooth guy who does what he has to.

“He’s helpful and friendly,” Karrina Stevens said. “He’s a people person, very easy to along with.” •

By Kara Dziadosz

Senior class Presi-dent Melissa Gon-zalez is graduating

with much success. She has been in JROTC since freshman year and she finishes high school with all As and Bs. Her favorite class was anatomy.

She will be attending Northeastern Illinois University in the fall to study nursing, although she had won acceptance to Norwich College, a military college in Ver-mont. She works at Fresh Market Place.

Melissa has an amazing attitude when she walks in the halls at Steinmetz and shows other students what it takes to be successful. Melissa advises students to start off strong.

Science teacher Chris Javier was one of Me-lissa’s favorite teachers.

“He always saw the best in me,” she said.She has shown much improvement in

JROTC, rising to the rank of Captain. She was very committed to the program, which she cred-its for teaching her how to be organized.

Melissa sends a shout out to friends Jenny Gonzalez, Olivia Nunez, Gissel Mendoza, Mat-thew Cintron, Luke Kuczynski and Miguel Tapia.

“They’re always there for me, regardless, and I love them,” she said.

Melissa said her family, which includes her mom, dad, and four younger sisters, expects her to be a good role model.

Melissa served Steinmetz as a Senior Ambas-sador and JROTC recruiter.

Sergeant Tammy Amaro said that she finds

Melissa to be an awesome student who is out-spoken in a positive way. She also works well with other students.

“Melissa is successful because she has great communication skills and she’s always looking out for other students,” Sgt. Amaro said. “Melissa has no problem correcting students on their uniform or in general in class and that makes her an amazing leader.”

Melissa stands out in class when she presents well. Melissa gets really involved in school with the JROTC events and being class president and with the sports challenge and drill team. And because of her standing out so much that helps other students follow her lead.

Miguel Tapia has been friends with Melissa throughout high school. He said she’s really car-ing and she’s always putting people first before herself.

“Melissa is successful because she’s always looking at the outcome in situations,” he said. “Melissa is a really friendly person. She gets along with everyone very well. Melissa stands out be-cause she’s so outgoing. She’s trustworthy and always happy.” •

Alejandro Hernandez, Star editor, to continue his writing at DePaul

Justyn Williams, easy going athlete and Prom King

Melissa Gonzalez, senior class president and Prom Queen

Alejandro Hernandez poses with Pat Motto, his mom Maria Hernandez and IB coordinator Nan-cyanne Ferrarini on May 16 when Ms. Motto visited the school. Ale is the grateful recipiant of a renewable $1,000 scholarship created by Ms. Motto and her late husband Michael McGhee for a “worthy student who worked on a high school paper and wants to pursue a journalism career.”


Star Seniors16

“JROTC”Kara Dziadosz

“Journalism class was great”Aleksander Samulak

“When I met my creatures Emony and Desiree”Jailene Torres

“Winning my journalistic awards, My time in football and track, sleep-less nights writing essays & Articles.”Alejandro Hernandez

“On a field trip with Ms. Hank and Ms. Eshoo, two friends Arnold and Fernando showed up at the bus with tamales and champurrado.”Karen Bahena

“The Steinmetz Star. I’m going to miss the way we design the paper. Being in the newspaper and taking photos for it. Being with my friends and building close relationships. I am a little scared being on my own but I know I will be alright”. “Brian Geans

“My favourite part of the past four years has to be caroling around the school before winter break with a few chorus students. I’m going to miss being able to help with choir and journalism. I’m going miss a lot of the teachers, like Ms. Schmidt and Mr. Greco.”Mckenzie Lacefield

“Going to the cheer competition and competing with my favorite group of girls.”Ashley Komperda

“My favorite memory of the past four years are the times I got to spend with friends who have become family. I’m going to miss the idea of high school in general. ”Camila Pina

“The lock-in.”Kacper Sip

“My favorite memory was being with my best friend in Lock In.’Gissel Mendoza

“A memory that I will never forget was when we went on a trip to navy pier. That was pretty fun.”Gerardo jerez

“A memory that I will always have is the senior lock in. It was fun hang-ing out with my friends all night. I will miss my journalism class, both my teacher and friends.” Juan Ceballos

“The Homecoming games and get-ting to meet new people were the highlights of my high school years. I will miss Ms. Seritella and the se-curity guards.”Maya Robinson

“I will miss Ms. Chaparro and having fun with my friends in the halls. My highlight from the past four years will have to be going into Chaparro’s class and having amazing conversations.”Venice Gonzalez

“Lunch with my friends.”Jose Padilla

“Being on stage at the pep rally.”Justyn Williams

“I think one of my favorite memory is when I joined cross country and got to go to the meet with my team and my coaches, even though I was the only freshman.”Adriana Espinoza

“Always having fun and laughing in class.”Milena Collazo

“All the plays I’ve been in, making new friends and joining sports.”Melanie Rolon

“The experience of being on the football team and creating a bond with my teammates.”Aldair Murillo

“Meeting my amazing friends and forming cool memories with them.”Victoria Boccia

“Meeting my friends who are now in college and participating in senior events.”Maria Reyna

“Being a part of sports teams and getting certificates for it. Meeting great friends and staff who were always there to support me and checking on how I was doing aca-demically.”Teresa Martinez

“The Japan trip.”Lukasz Kuczynski

“Being embarrassed by Ms. Ochwat for writing a very poor lab report.”Bart Labno

“Going to Japan for our foreign exchange.”Kienna Bariso

“My best memories are the people I’ve met since my freshman year up to my senior year.”Juan C. Padilla

“Meeting my bestfriend.”Emony Tate

“Senior Lock-In was my favorite. I wish to do it again.”Desmariah Langford

“Getting to perform for everyone in the play and the Lock-In.”Alec Reyes

“Running away from the staff at the senior Lock In”Gerardo Martinez

“Having all the home coming danc-es and pep rally and just having fun”Wiljalisha Mollfulleda

“My freshman easy classes”Olivia Nunez

“Being on the cross country team.”Perla Ramirez

“Being with Jacara all four years. Same now, same way”Rosemary McGurn

“Doing fun, stupid stuff my fresh-man year”Yesenia Deluna

“When I scored and put up the most points in a Steinmetz game.” Paris Glispie

“3 point contest.” Luis Gomez

“My favorite memory would have to be the corn maze.” Melissa Gonzalez

“Going to Japan my senior year, corn maze.” Magda Hernandez

“My first day… it was weird.” Zaneta Marcinik

“Being with Jacara all four years, same now, same way.” Rosemary McGurn

“Having Ms. Stuber go to my house for 6 (six) weeks, keeping me up with my work.” Flor Renteria

“One of the homecomings.” Jacara Adams

“Spending it with my friends this year; they are all good memories.” Eyerusalem Coleman-Kitch

“Achieving for my best from IB, ASM, NHS, Cross Country, Track & Field, etc.” Raul Costilla

“Track with Coach P.”Karrina Stevens

“Lunch with the math squad and Nike North vs. South with my cross country team.”Alejandro Alonzo

“Playing in the alumni game and getting MVP.” Antonio Agee

What are some of your favorite memories?

A bright future for Steinmetz Class of 2016


Star Seniors 17

Photos by Steven Nunez


Star Seniors18

By Gissel Mendoza

Adriana Espinoza is one of Steinmetz’ outstanding seniors, who exceled in academics and atheltics. She partici-

pated on the cross country, basketball, soccer, track and field and softball teams.

She will be attending Northeastern Illinois University. The Star interviewed Adriana ear-lier this year.

How did you get involved with sports?I kind of went for it since elementary

school. My mom and younger brother and I were really active and liked to be energetic. I didn’t even know what the sports were but I still tried and went for it because it was fun and new and helped me connect with people .

How does it affect your personal life? It just takes a lot of time and hard work.

Although more than once it kept me from seeing my dad, but he understands especially because he was athletic himself once.

How do you maintain your grades?I don’t find any excuses for work to inter-

fere with sports. To play, you have to keep your grades up. That’s what good about sports, if you really love it, you’ll do anything to be able to participate.

Who are your influences? My mom and dad, just because they always

tell me they wish they would have gone down a different road, to not struggle, to care for us, so it would be easier for them with food and clothes. They never got the affection I get. So they encourage me to succeed where they couldn’t. That’s what influences me to do well. Two other influences are Coach P and Ms.

Russo who have always said that in being a “student athlete” being a student always comes first because being in any sports as an athlete is privilege not an obligation.

What do you do on your free time?If anything, I’ll help out with school events

or just hang out with friends. What do you want to major in college

and why? I’m leaning towards being a vet because I

love animals and I love caring for them. I even try to care for animals now. My grandpa has brought home a baby squirrel and a bird, then gave them to me to care for. But then he set them free with made me mad.

Is there anything else I should know about you?

If I had a superpower it’d be telekinesis. Then I’d be able to manipulate people and convince them to do good. •

By Juan Ceballos and Gerardo Jerez

Aldair Murillo has been very suc-cessful during his high school years. He played football and

volleyball and participated in OneGoal. He worked at Party City and Zam Zam’s Banquets.

Aldair’s favorite memory of Steinmetz was “being on the football team and cre-ating a bond with my teammates.”

He knows what it takes to succeed and offers advice to others.

“Stay out of trouble, go to class and do your work,” he said. “Get involved in sports.”

Aldair’s friend Marcin Malyszko, who has known Aldair for the past six years, since they were at Locke school together, said Aldair “is just an awesome friend.”

Aldair is “really good at Guitar Hero,” Marcin said. His favorite thing to eat is enchildas.

His goal is to graduate from North Park College and work in nursing and physical therapy.

Teacher Tara Scolire wrote many nice words about Aldair:

I am so thankful that Mr. Greco brought him to me for OneGoal. He is an absolutely delightful student. He is one of the most genu-ine, kind, and polite young man I have ever taught. He greets me every single morning, always asks how I am doing, and truly cares about my response.

Aldair cares very much about others, es-pecially his friends and his mom. He is not afraid to love deeply, and is an incredibly supportive friend to all who are lucky enough to be one of his.

He works incredibly hard in everything he does, from studying for his classes to play-ing football. He has been so successful with both that he has been offered the incredible opportunity to play football while earning his college degree at North Park University.

I am blessed to know Aldair, and I am excited for him to continue to be successful, spread his love and positively impact the lives of people he meets. •

By Brian Geans

Jan Padilla is an outspoken advocate for justice. The Star interviewed him about his work as an organizer with Communi-

ties United. How did you get involved with Com-

munities United? At first, I didn’t want to get involved. I went

to their meetings with a friend of mine during my sophomore year and I wasn’t interested at all. Fast forward to my junior year, I got involved with a program called GOTV (Get Out To Vote) and at first I was just doing it for the service learning hours, but then I started to learn about the work that Communities United was doing and I really felt like joining and getting involved.

What kind of work do you do? I’ve been involved with the Fight for $15

and Black Lives Matter movements. I’ve been to rallies alongside the Chicago Teachers Union and I’ve worked with other students in Springfield, Illinois to help pass a law that ends the zero tolerance policy.

Will you continue this work? I see myself continuing the work I do to

create a change. If Communities United con-tinues making changes, then I probably would work there forever. Forever might be a little exaggerating, though. Thinking about Com-munities United continuing to accomplish new things makes me hopeful for the future work that has yet to come.

Where did you come from? Although I was born in Chicago, I always

say I’m from Puerto Rico because I was raised over there for 13 years. My hometown is Coa-mo, which is in the south area of Puerto Rico.

What superhero would you be? I’d probably want to be Raven from Teen

Titans because I think she’s so cool and her powers are cool, too. I want to move things without touching them.

What do you do on your free time? I usually play video games like Pokemon

and Super Smash Bros.If the zombie apocalypse came, who

would be on your team? I would have want Daryl, Glenn, and Rick

from “The Walking Dead’’ on my team be-cause they’re so good looking. •

By Anthony Morgan-Kitch

Victoria Boccia is a Steinmetz suc-cess story. She took full advantage of the variety of programs here and

grew so much academically, socially and in her extra curricular activities. She is on her way to prestigious, four-year liberal arts college.

She charms her friends and teachers with her awkward, yet fun and lively, con-versation style. Victoria’s kind nature and acceptance to everyone is the reason for the relationships she has with almost every teacher in the building.

“Victoria is a bright student,” teacher Seth Patner said. “She is going to do ex-tremely well, if she learns to relax.”

She has a hard-at-work curiosity for learning. Victoria has taken things from her teachers that don’t just pertain to the class subject matter. She has learned about leadership, perseverance and professional-ism through her teachers and mentors, and she applies these things with her time, in and out of the classroom, such as in class projects she leads in AP Biology.

It wasn’t easy for Victoria to find the right academic fit. She was a straight-A student her freshman year in regular and honors classes that seemed too easy, but her grades went down after she transferred to MYP. She said she felt out of place that year in the program and didn’t do as well as she could have.

In her junior and senior years she found success in honors and AP courses, as well as in college courses at Wright.

She joined several extra-curricular ac-tivities over the years, including Academic Decathlon, ASM, track and field, cross country and newspaper club.

Victoria reported one of the most inter-esting stories ever published in the Star, an investigation of ghost stories at Steinmetz. She talked to many people in the build-ing who experienced paranormal activity.

Because the story was so well-sourced and factual, it won a McCormick Media Award for reporting. [See page 7 of the Sept.-Oct. 2013 Steinmetz Star in the “Newspaper” link on the school website.]

As a freshman, Victoria’s Steinmetz Star opinion columns created a lot of contro-versy.

“Victoria was a good writer, with a strong voice, as a freshman, but she was abrassive, missing a thoughtfulness that she has since found,” Ms. Schmidt said.

Despite the rejection she faced of not getting accepted to her college of choice, Victoria moved forward. She learned “you’re not always going to get what you want ... but there are always other options.”

Accepting her situation and moving on has helped her to see what she really wanted to do and the place she wants to do it at. Victoria had a strong interest in her AP biology class this year.

“I think with this interest in genetics lately, it might be shaping my goals for the future”.

Victoria will be shaping her future at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois. Mr. Patner encouraged her to go to this aca-demically excellent, small school where she can pursue her interests.•

Aldair Murillo, a ‘delight’Adriana Espinoza, athletic student

Victoria Boccia, on quest to learnJuan Padilla, organizing for stronger communities

Juan Padilla speaks with Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis at the “Genera-tion All” launch of an action plan to revitalize CPS high schools on April 13.


By Olivia Nunez

Shout out to Brian, Flor, Diana,and Rosemary. They’ve been great to me and I’m glad I was able to interact as much as I did with them. Senior year was great. Being able to learn and incorporate journalism was a different experience. I will always be

glad to say I was involved in one of the greatest high school newspapers. •

Star Seniors 19

My baby, Aliyah April Torres By Flor Renteria

Being a teen mom isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but it isn’t the hardest thing either.

Managing school, studying and be-ing a mom is a struggle, but nothing I can not manage to handle because Ali-yah’s blessed with a good father and both our families are supportive and helpful.

It’s also my senior year and things aren’t as tough as I thought they’d be. Teachers take it easier and help us out if we need to catch up. That helps me stay up to date a lot.

I’m blessed with a beautiful, good and healthy baby girl. She sleeps throughout the whole night so I don’t really struggle with being tired in school. She’s my total happi-ness, my motivation for everyday. I would do anything for my little princess.

Everybody talks about how being a mom at a young age will take away all the fun. Actually being a mom is a lot of fun: you have to cherish every moment.

Having my baby girl. Aliyah, was truly a blessing. When I was home from school for six weeks after she was born I enjoyed every single second of my day with her – learning her little tricks, watching her get funnier and funnier.

My whole day was dedicated to her. If I didn’t have time to myself it didn’t really bother me. Watching her grow day by day is my favorite activity.

Everyday she does something new. Feed-ing time is my favorite part of the day, not only because it happens every three hours, but because watching her do cute little faces while she eats makes me smile.

When I do get to go out to the store there’s no way I’m getting out of the baby’s section until I have at least four different outfits for her.

Now, it’s hard to leave her in the morn-ing and throughout the day I miss her so much, but I look forward to going home to her everyday after school. •

By Jacara Adams

I’ve been to Steinmetz all my four years and it’s been a rocky road. But I still made it with all the changes and obstacles in

my life and I’m so proud. I went from being in MYP my freshman

year to transferring into honors my sopho-more year. That’s the best choice I’ve made in high school. The work wasn’t hard, I just didn’t like not being conjoined with the entire rest of the school. That wasn’t for me.

I’ve gone through friendship breakups that back then I felt some time of way about to not caring about it. It happened for a reason. I met some of the greatest, funni-est teachers here: Mr. Arroyo, Ms. Perez, Ms. Schmidt, Ms. Sullivan, Mr. Edwards and also my caring, wonderful counselor, Mr. Powell.

My four years went by so fast. I still re-member my first day, walking up and the radio station was here passing out those black shirts. I remember everything. I’m just

so happy that it’s coming to end and that I can start a new chapter in my life – college.

I’m excited, but scared because I’ll be away from my mother. What am I going to do without her, coming from school and seeing her? But I’m ready. •

By Olivia Nunez

Outstanding senior Jenny Gonza-lez has done a great job managing school, work and sports.

“It hasn’t been easy, but because I enjoy doing sports I keep it on it,” she said. “Soc-cer was a great sport to do my freshman year; it let me meet new friends and ease into high school way better. Track kept me motivated to be in shape and keep up with my good grades. That’s why I continued doing it sophomore through senior year.”

Jenny will be going to the University of Illinois at Chicago. She wants to be there for four years. Being very confident she will succeed, she plans to become an English teacher.

At the moment her job is being an intern at JP Morgan Chase, which she obtained through Urban Alliance.

“It’s really an enjoyable experience,” she said. “I have learned many things – work

attire, being on time and managing time, considering that the job is downtown.”

She said her favorite memories at Stein-metz are having classes with her friends. She wishes she would have done more extracur-ricular activities. She offers excellent advice to the underclassmen:

“Do not slack off, not even your fresh-men year, because it will come back to you.”•

Jenny Gonzalez, future teacher

Diana Lagunas, professional

Jacara Adams, ready for what’s next

By Flor Renteria

Diana Lagunas is an outstanding grad-uating senior, who achieved success in athletics and academics.

Her favorite class was yearbook, where she took pictures, wrote copy and laid out pages.

“I’m a professionalist; I like everything to be nice,” she said.

What she loves about Steinmetz is the teachers:

“They’re genuinely nice; they take care of us,” she said. “I like talking to them.”

Diana ran cross country and was on the track and field team and the soccer team.

She lives with her parents, and has two younger brothers and an older brother who stays in college. They help each other when they need each other, although they do ig-nore each other sometimes and sometimes they argue.

“My dad is obsessed with pozole,” she said.

She doesn’t really remember her child-hood, but she knows that she cried a lot. One time she cried in pre-K so loud after she was dropped off that her mom heard her outside the school

Now when she gets home she tries to help out in the house, such as washing dishes.

On her free time she likes to clean her room and reorganize it while watching Keep-ing Up With The Kardashians.

She values all the education that she’s had, her shelter, family and that she’s a healthy person.•

McKenzie Lacefield, beautifully bold and expressive

Involved in one of the greatest

By Sharon Schmidt, teacher

McKenzie values expression. She sings, plays music, plays sports, acts, takes pictures, draws pic-

tures, listens, reads, talks and writes – po-ems, columns and news stories.

She refuses to be censored. When the Star had an interesting, factual and timely news story ready to publish in December 2015, but halted by administration af-ter CPS higher-ups questioned the story, McKenzie instinctively knew that she could do something about it. With no prompting from me, she created her own website and published the story herself.

She probably didn’t know she’d make local and national news. She just thought that since the Star staff had worked so hard on the story, and the information was available, that others should have a chance to read it.

She boldly practiced her First Amend-ment rights and, with the help of her mom, withstood an ugly attack by an outside adult bully who tried to scare her into tak-ing down her website by making inflam-

matory threats about McKenzie’s future. Through her defence of free speech, she

developed even more courage and made some really cool journalist friends.

But being awesome isn’t new; she’s been like this for awhile.

The first piece of hers that I read this year blew me away – a column about choosing to be happy. Her premise and well-written explanation were so wise for such a young woman. •

Jacarra Adams, Karrina Stevens


Star News20

Drama club performs the Case of the Burning Test

Spring choir and band showcase

The play was written by Mr. Gerald Cole, directed by Ms. Patti Stuber, and co-directed by Ms. Jennifer Egan, who also played Mason the bully, with dazzling student actors and a great stage crew.

Other staff members involved were Mi-chelle Mottram, costumes, Gina Szulkows-ki, sets, Mr. Mendrano, lights and sound, Ms. DeJesus, coaching and acting, and Mr. Hasken, music.

The Case of the Burning Test followed the main character Sherry Holmes, brilliantly played by Melanie, who is new to a school filled with some interesting characters: Tem-pest, played by freshman Sam Chafai, the se-cretly smart lyrical genius; Paul, junior Alvaro Blancas, a shy guy who loves himself some gatorade; Aaron, played by Ryan Allibone, a very fabulous male to female transgender; Lenore, sophomore Alina Qureshy, a money hungry hustler, Winter Watson and Noel, seniors McKenzie Lacefield and Alec Reyes, pretty much the most sane people at Sherry’s new school and who are both secretly crush-ing on each other. Jesse Bronski played their teacher.

With a school filled with interesting people, who are more than their weird characteristics, Sherry knows there are secrets to be discovered about them all and a case will soon arise. Surely it does when they are all forced to take an im-portant test that “determines their whole entire future,” according to the character Principal Hartey, played by sophomore Agape Alfaro. So, of course all of the tests are mysteriously

burned and Noel is falsely accused. It’s all there for Sherry Holmes to solve the case and save the day.

Spoiler alert! Sherry does solve the case with Winter and the rest of the main cast. It ends up being the one no one expected, thirsty and quiet Paul. Sherry figures out many of the character’s back stories, like how Le-nore’s grandma is in a nursery home and in desperate need of an electric wheelchair and the reason why Tempest is so worried about the tests is because they determine if she gets into Harvard or not.The ending also calls for touching closing stories like when Aaron the bullied and Mason the bully become friends at the end and when Winter and Noel end up together. Overall, the play was one great mystery that hides many secrets within it that need to be revealed.

I was an audience member for The Case of the Burning Test, mostly to support my friends but, also to finally appreciate the hard work that occurred for this play to even happen. I really enjoyed the play. I think that Steinmetz is lucky to have such amazing talent in their halls and it needs to be talked about more.

Memorable performancesThere were amazing performances but a

few do stick out to me. Sam Chafai as Tem-pest was one of my favorite performances of the night due to the quick and long poetic monologues that Tempest spits out to offend people. Sam played her excellently, which is funny due to how she wasn’t very fond of the character she was portraying.

“Originally, I hated the character of Tem-pest and I tried out for every part I could other than Tempest,” she said. How weird to think that one of the best performances of the night almost didn’t happen.

Ryan Allibone’s portrayal of Aaron was quite great, too. During his speech when he fi-nally stood up to Mason t, the audience began cheering for Aaron, but also for Ryan, because he nailed the moving speech. I thought that was the best scene in the whole play.

Melanie Rolon, who is such a natural, was perfect as Sherry Holmes. Rolon, who has had many great roles during her time at Steinmetz, sadly won’t be in another production due to the fact that she’s a senior. Many of the great talents of this year were seniors and it is very sad to see them all go since they have found a bit of home on the stage. The Drama Club is sad to see them go but looking forward to support their future careers.

Funny and relatableFor me, The Case of the Burning Test was

good. Being a little cheesy and tad confusing at times didn’t stop me from enjoying it. I still saw it as a very special play displayed some great themes. The characters were all funny and even relatable. The subject of test-ing is too real for everyone because we have all faced the anxiety and stress from it. Also the theme of secrets and the ultimate message of how the truth will always be revealed so it’s best to be honest was great to remind the audience. The whole production overall from the stage design, the music, the spectacular

performances, the costumes and the crew were such a joy to witness.

At the end of the play, it was strangely emotional for me to see the curtain call. The play was so important to everyone involved because many worried it wasn’t going to hap-pen. They credited each other and it showed the bond of hard work and how important drama club is. There should be a play every year at Steinmetz because many people love being involved in something special.

It’s amazing how so many people were a part of this special night and behind the scenes of it all. Everyone involved deserves a standing ovation. The play was so great and it would have never happened if many people didn’t stand up to the plate and involve themselves in it. The Drama Club especially wants to state how much they’re grateful to Ms. Stuber and Ms. Egan. It truly blows my mind to how much hard work was put into The Case of the Burning Test and how much it paid off.

The Case of the Burning Test just reminds me how drama club is so important because it’s an outlet for creativity. All of these actors are given challenges and face them with such grace. The actors portray things they never imagined they had the courage to do and they create so much beauty through that. Drama club is a place that they are able to create precious memories and strong bonds with each other. The drama club needs to live on because Steinmetz’s talent shouldn’t be hidden. The Case of the Burning Test was a great and important production that reminded me that theatre is amazing.•

Students from the two choir classes sang Yonder Come Day, Gaudeamus and Love Yourself. The choir is directed by Anna Lesniakowska.

“Anna features her singers in the most flattering way possible, capitalizing on their range and stylistic talents,” Ms. Zaluba said.

The showcase also featured soloists.Marqishia Flowers sang “One + One” by Beyonce,

Jessebelle Bronski and Max Solorio sang “Riptide” by Vance Joy, Michelle Santoyo and Luis Ortega sang “Impos-sible” by Shontelle, Deja Poole and Luis sang “Powerful” by Empire and Andy Lagunas sang “Nightingale” by Demi Lovato.

Please, remember to sign up to take band and choir classes in the 2016-2017 school year.•

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Star News 21

By McKenzie Lacefireld

Given that the school year’s almost up and most of the graduates will be heading off to college, the Star took

the opportunity to sit down with some Stein-metz alumni to learn about their experiences.

The Star interviewed Anthony Guerrero, a sophomore at Concordia University of Chi-cago, Li Nygun, a freshman at Wright Col-lege, and Gardenia Ceron, a junior at Robert Morris.

What are classes like?Anthony: Classes are always interesting,

especially when your professor is really chill.Li: Classes are different. There are never

assigned seats.Gardenia: Classes always depend on your

professor and attitude towards the subject and, most importantly, your organization skills and time management.

What kind of classes are there?Anthony: There are a variety of classes

in college. Classes for your major, general education or just electives. I attend a private university where the class size is usually 10 - 15 people.

Li: The sizes of classes vary. Some may be only 10 people, but larger ones can be about 20-25 people. Lectures are also not too dif-ficult if you pay attention.

Gardenia: The classes that I had at my school were more towards my major, which was culinary arts, and my school had a big thing about class sizes, so the most I ever had in a class was a little over 30. I had a class with more, but attendance wasn’t part of the grade, so it was mostly empty.

My school has more unique options. You could take art classes, architect classes, even a class about zombies for humanities. It just depends on how much space you have in your schedule. You take at least four classes per semester.

Did you have an idea of a major when you started?

Anthony: Yes, I did. I wanted to be a com-puter scientist.

Li: My idea of a major was “art” so that I could be an animator. If someone is unsure what to major in, then my suggestion is “lib-eral arts” which is a mix set of courses.

Gardenia: When I first started college, I thought I wanted to do culinary arts, and I love it, but it’s not something I need a bach-elor’s for, so now I’m starting to look at para-legal and even forensic in my school. It’s hard to pick what you want to do with the rest of your life when just a few months ago you had to ask to use the restroom. Always know that we’re young and we have time to decide what we want to do with our lives.

Do you have a differnt major now?Anthony: As I took classes for computer

science, I realized it wasn’t for me. Now I’m

studying exercise science, and in the future I will attend graduate school to become a physical therapist.

Gardenia: Even now, I don’t know what I want to do. I’m scared I might not know for a while, but it’s not a fear that I face alone. I know that a lot of young people don’t know what they want to do, and there’s no shame in not knowing what you want to do right out of high school.

How’s picking your own schedule?Anthony: Picking your schedule is pretty

difficult your first year, but your academic advisor is always there to help you.

Li: Scheduling is hectic because it’s first come, first serve. There are many students who are also trying to get the same class.

Gardenia: I actually love that my school actually has our academic advisors make up our schedules to ensure we only take classes we need in order to get our associates or bachelors. We have input. In my freshman year, I traded English for News Writing.

Do you remember your first day?Anthony: My first day of college I was re-

ally nervous. I thought I would end up with a lot of homework.

Li: My first day was more towards finding my class, but I had an older classmate give me a tour.

Gardenia: I remember my first day hav-ing trouble, as any other student, finding my classroom and feeling nervous. But thanks to marching band, I had the opportunity to make friends way before classes actually started, so I didn’t feel lonely and I had a group of friends already. My school operates in cohorts, so I was surrounded by all the same people; it made it easier to adjust.

If there was one thing you could’ve done in high school before you graduated, what would you have done?

Anthony: The one thing I would’ve done before I graduated would have been to save up money for books.

Li: One thing I wish I had done before graduation would be the “lock in” because all

my friends were there and I wasn’t.Gardenia: I think I would have traveled,

maybe even take a year off. There’s no shame in taking a while to start, as long as you are plan-ning to go back to school, maybe even start off at a community college instead. There’s no shame in community college either, because once you graduate, it’s all about finding a job to pay those college loans.

What’s your advice for the future fresh-man attending college in the fall?

Anthony: My advice for the future fresh-man is don’t be discouraged if you didn’t take AP, IB, or honors classes. You’ll do fine in col-lege. Everyone can be a Dean’s List student. I myself was in regular classes in high school,

and I am a three-time Dean’s List student with a 3.9 GPA. Make the most of your education.

Li: Future college student – don’t procras-tinate and get your sleep.

Gardenia: Become involved with your school. If you have an opportunity to join an activity, sport, or any club, you should because it helps you network within your age group. Always make sure you make friends with at least one kid in class, in case of any actual emergency you need someone to take notes. The most important thing, though, is to always have some sort of time management because it’s easy to get lost within yourself, with homework and being social.•

Advice for the incoming college freshmen

College plans include Chicago, downstate, beyond

Looking back at the fun

Alumni Anthony Guerrero, Gardenia Ceron and Li Nygun share great advice about college in this story, based on their experiences at Concor-dia, Robert Morris and Wright. Anthony speaks to the majority of graduates at Steinmetz who were not IB students or in AP courses: “Don’t be discouraged if you didn’t take AP, IB, or honors classes. You’ll do fine in college. Everyone can be a Dean’s List student. I myself was in regular classes in high school, and I am a three-time Dean’s List student with a 3.9 GPA. Make the most of your education.”

By Paris Glispie

My older sister, Lechel Glispie, was a great influence on me. She graduated from Steinmetz

in 2013. For three years she attended Indiana

State University. I missed her a lot when she was gone. Now she is back in Chicago to finish college at UIC and work at Rush Hospital, living in her own apartment.

How was Steinmetz for you?High school was really fun. I made

a lot of friends there and it was a great experience.

What has changed? It had a very different bell schedule,

I’ll tell you that much. We used to get out at 2:45. I don’t know what is going on now and what happened with that.

Who were some of your favorite people?My favorite teacher would have to be

Mrs.Schmidt and the staff, of course, security guards Mr. Sam and Burt. They were my

favorite. They always made me laugh and would make my day.

Do you miss high school?Yes. Of course every day I think about

going back to high school. I wish I could go back and do it all over again.•

Thank you to the seniors who participated in the Star post-secondary plans survey. Our list of where students are headed and their intended majors is on our website: www.steinmetzstar.com.


Thanks, Colonel Baynes, for tak-ing me in when I came from Prosser. Thank you for understanding my religious convictions and for being so nice and wise. You’ve been the best and I am going to miss you.

Alisson Castellanos (Skirt Girl)

To the youngest man I know, Col. Baynes. You’re one of the cool-est guys I know. I hope to see you back here.

David Montes de Oca

Dear Colonel Baynes,I hope you have a good time and

I will definitely miss you. Make sure you come and visit.

Natalie Palomares(Your favorite student)

I would like to say thanks for everything you’ve done for this pro-gram. Thanks for the experience in JROTC, Colonel Baynes.

Nicole Espinoza

Really going to miss you, Colo-nel Baynes. Thank you for taking us on those field trips and getting us ice creams, subs and donuts. You made my two years of high school great.

Michelle Villanueva

I want to send a huge shout out to 1SG Ruiz from JROTC. He is a big part of why I’ve grown as a person and have changed so much throughout four years. When I came to him sophomore year he believed in me before I believed in myself and I’m so grateful for that. May your future be bright wherever it takes you. Farewell and hope you stay well.

Sincerely, Joshua Martinez

I’d like to send a shout out to 1SG Ruiz for being with me since my sophomore year, and for push-ing me to do the Tawani Scholars essay. Thank you for being there for me, for pushing me to do my best and for not giving up on me. I’m going to miss receiving your hugs – frown emoticon – and you always asking how am I doing. I remember when you had to leave us for a while earlier this year and crying when you came to visit us. Thank you for everything, 1SG Ruiz. I’m going to miss you.

Jocelyn Sanders

Exfoliating, which is the key to success, was taught to me by 1SG Ruiz.

Noe Barcenes

Ain’t gone yet.Sgt. Davis

I’d like to send a shout out to Sgt. Amaro. I remember her coming to Steinmetz my freshman year and not being too happy about not hav-ing Sgt. Yangas anymore, but when she became my sergeant I began to like her very much. Thank you for being there for the senior class, for motivating us to figure out what we want to do after high school and for pushing us to do better. I hope all goes well after you move. I’ll miss you.

Jocelyn Sanders

To 1SG Ruiz,It’s been an honor and awesome

to have you as an instructor and a teacher for some time. I appreci-ate everything you’ve done for the JROTC program. Have a wonderful retirement.

Noah Garcia

Shout out to SFC Amaro for all of her daily Facebook pictures and updates. Thank you for keeping me motivated during PT and thank you for the bagels and doughnuts.

Chiya Loyd

Sgt. Amaro helped me a lot throughout my years in JROTC and she saw me grow as a person. I’ll miss her very dearly and I wish her the best in her new chapter in life.

Sincerely,, Gabi Caudel

Shout out to Colonel Baynes, 1SG Ruiz and SFC Amarro for be-ing great instructors in our JROTC program. You will all be missed.

Melissa Tello

Sgt. Amaro, thank you for be-ing my sergeant this year. You are the best.

Victoria Lara

I would like to send a shout out to Sgt. Amaro. She was my teacher freshman year and I believe she has seen me grow from a hooligan into who I am today and that’s why she was so proud of me. I’m really sorry for the mistake I made and I really do wish her the best in her future down in Kentucky. She contributed so much to the program; it’s sad to see her leave so soon. Hopefully she keeps her positive attitude down there and spreads it as well as she has here.

Joshua Martinez (Curly)

I want to send a shout out to all three instructors. Throughout all four years you all pushed me to become the confident and outgoing person I never thought I would be. Breaking through my shell hasn’t been easy, but you guys never gave up on me. You all taught me the two most valuable qualities – motiva-tion and commitment – and I’m so grateful for that. Thank you for the support all these years. Wish you all the best.

Cindy Salgado

We’ll miss you. Goodbye.Leo Villegas

Colonel Baynes was the most understanding and warm-hearted person ever. Sgt. Amaro always kept me motivated to keep moving forward and I appreciate the things she has done for the JROTC com-munity. And 1SG Ruiz is one of the strongest people I know. He fought through his heart attack and came back to the JROTC for Steinmetz and I want to thank you for showing you care for us all. We will always have you in our hearts. Thank you for helping us improve:, it means a lot.

Damien Torrentt

Star JROTC News22

Seniors recognized at JROTC Spring Ceremony

Cadets send best wishes to retiring JROTC instructors


Star JROTC News 23

Time capsules reveal goals of freshman yearSubmitted by SFC Amaro

In January 2013 the then-fresh-man class known to be the Class of 2016 created a time capsule. There were two freshman classes

that conducted this lesson on goal setting and long term planning. The lesson on goal setting showed students how to create some goals and how to reach their goals. We also talked about graduating and had students think about what they may want to do once they completed high school at Steinmetz College Prep.

Each student was asked to write a letter and address it to themselves where they would open the time capsule at the end of their senior year of high school then read the letters that they had written.

We also added a Chicago Sun-Times Newspaper, Steinmetz Star Newspaper, a JROTC Newsletter, and a letter from SFC Amaro.

On Wednesday, May 25, 2016, the seniors from the JROTC Class of 2016 opened their time capsules. •

Gabi Caudel honored by Chicago mayor

Gabi Caudel (third from the left) was one of 11 Chicago JROTC cadets recognized at Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s Resolution Ceremony at City Hall on Wednesday, May 18. The Mayor congratulated Gabi for receiving a tuition waiver from the Senior ROTC Program at the

University of Illinois, Chicago. She will be majoring in Criminal Justice. •

I’m going to miss all of you guys. Thank you guys for everything you’ve taught me.

Juan Soto

I want to thank you for being great, Sgt. Ruiz and Colonel Baynes. I have learned a lot from you. You’re really funny and I could talk to you about anything. Thank you for mak-ing me a better citizen and I’m grate-ful for the great experience.

Emily Martinez

Thank you for acknowledging me. Ivan Rico

Thank you to Colonel Baynes, Sgt. Amaro and, mostly, 1SG Ruiz for motivating me this year to be-come a better cadet, physically and mentally.

Colonel, you really made me step up my game and made me realize a bunch of things in life. SFC Amaro, thank you for always making me smile and helping me come out of my shell by actually talking to the other sergeants other than Sgt. Davis.

Thank you 1SG Ruiz for helping me become a better leader and help-ing me when I was stressed out a lot.

I hope the best for your future

and please come and visit us. Love you.

Kimberly Degante

Thank you for your service. Come back and visit. I’ll always keep in touch with you Colonel Baynes. Sgt. Amaro, I know that you are a great teacher who will be missed. I love you both. Have a great summer.

Kiante M

Really going to miss Colonel Baynes and Sgt. Ruiz. Hope you guys have a good life. A.A.

Thanks to all of the JROTC in-structors for all your help and dedi-cation towards the cadets and the JROTC Program.

Ashley Caraballo

I want to say thank you for ev-erything that you guys did. It was truly an amazing experience and not having you guys next year will suck. You will be missed. In my two years I have learned a lot. Thanks to Sgt. Amaro, Sgt. Ruiz, and Colonel Baynes

Sincerely, Cinthya Ruiz

To Sgt. Amaro, 1SG Ruiz, and Colonel Baynes. Thank you for be-ing our role models and the most caring people. You have all entered our lives for a valuable reason, to show us unique point of views and succeed physically, mentally, and ac-ademically. You have all seen us grow day by day, working to improve our-selves. Thank you for making our program great and motivating us to the fullest. Thank you for making us who we are today.

Sincerely, Sandoval & Delgado

Cadets send best wishes to retiring JROTC instructors


Star Seniors24

Shoutout to Gerardo Martinez, Esmeralda Martinez, Arnold Cocte-con, Jackie Saldana and Fernando Sandoval:

Thank you for all those laughs and moments we shared that made senior year the best year of all. I must admit, most of Fernando’s jokes were pretty funny, although I said otherwise. I always enjoyed those moments when we would laugh so hard our stom-achs would hurt and no sound would come out. I know it’s probably going to be difficult for us to hang out dur-ing the following years because we are all going our separate ways but I hope graduation day is not a goodbye but a “see you later.” I hope that we still keep in touch.

Thank you guys for everything, I wish you the best in life and I will never forget you.

To Gerardo and Esmeralda: I know I don’t need to say good

bye to you guys because you aren’t just high school friends, you are fam-ily to me. I will always stay around for the big moments in life, even if that means bothering you guys. I’ve known both of you for nine years now, and although we weren’t always together, I feel like we grew up with eac hother. Especially you, Gerardo; we did grow up together. I hope to keep doing so for the following years.

You guys are my best friends and graduation will not stop us from be-ing that. I think Esmeralda and I can agree that we both enjoyed your jokes, Gerardo, because that mind of yours comes up with the wildest things. Thank you for everything that happened these past four years.

Love you, Karen

Shout out to my family, first of all. These four years have been challeng-ing and without their love and sup-port I couldn’t have made it. My sib-lings, Brenda and Bryan, thank you guys for always pushing me to do my best. My dad and mom, who would do their best to cheer me, especially in those moments of frustration. My one and only mom has always been there for me and has always shown her best to me a strong and caring woman who has loved me endlessly.

Also my friends Maggie, Marisol, Yesenia, Kim, Alex, Jose and Javier: You guys are amazing. Words can’t express how much I appreciate you guys for always understanding me and accepting me for who I am. I’m not going to say I’m going to miss you because we are still going to keep in touch. You guys are irreplacable. Thank you for creating the funniest memories with me, love you guys.

My IB classmates, spending these four years together with all of you have been the best. To all the IB teachers thank you so much for the dedication you have all put towards us these four years.

To all the IB teachers: Thank you so much for teaching me new things and helping me grow as a person mentally. Thank you for helping me grow as a person.

Shout out to Mr. Ngo and the chaperones for making the trip to Japan possible, thank you. Who would’ve thought my first trip ever was going to be Japan!

Stephanie Alonso

I would like to take this op-portunity to give a shout out to my girl-friend, Kim-berly Degante. I met you this year and you’ve easily been the best thing that’s ever happened to me. Having

I would like to give a shout out to my sister Gabriela Reyna.

Yes, I may argue with her and we both have our differences about school and other things, but she is the one that was able to encourage me both at home and at school. She was the one that helped me under-stand between IB and JROTC. I was able to at least fix myself when it comes to trusting her and to let her grow up. I know that I get really over protective, but it’s just that I wasn’t ready to see her grow up.

She is the total opposite of me – very energetic and loud, putting herself out there and being true to her friends. I’m going to miss see-

to graduate and leave you behind is breaking my heart, but I know we will be great because I love you and you love me. Here’s to seven months so far and years to come. Forever and always: 10.22.15.

Joshua Martinez + Kimberly

I want to give a special shout out to my one and only love, Joshua Martinez.

I want to tell you how much I’m going to miss you next year. Sucks. I have two more years to go, but I will do my very best for you, baby. You’ve grown so much since I’ve met you, love. You’re the only person that will cross my mind when I’m walking the halls next year. Thanks for making my sopho-more year the best. I love you, baby. Go and make me even more proud in college.

Love, Kimmy 1O-22-15

ing her in the hallways and having the weirdest conversation walks after school. Of course I would see her at home, but school is where we got to know each other more with our differences.

So Gabby, make sure you keep on getting your grades up and never let anyone ruined your last two years at school; not everything will be like this forever.

Maria Reyna

I would first of all like to send a shout out to the most important people who were with me in high school, which are the MS. They made my high school years full of excitement and laughter and I will truly never forget that. They are the most real people I will ever meet and I really want you all to know that you are all irreplaceable. I will forever cherish all of the moments that we had together and I hope that our friendship lasts for a lifetime. Love you guys.

I would also like to send a shout out to the bestest friends in the world, which are Stephanie and Marisol. I would have been so lost without you guys and thank you for always being so cheerful and constantly making me laugh.

Maggie Hernandez shout out continued on Page 25


Star Seniors 25

I want to give a shoutout to my friends Kim, Perla, Vivian, Olivia, Jenny, Melissa, Vanessa and Victoria for being great friends.

Love ya, Jessica Banderas

I want to say thank you to Mel. I met you in Mr. Bagdonas’ 4th period biology class. I’m so glad I didn’t sit somewhere else. Instead, I sat right behind you. I’m glad I made that choice. Words cannot express how grateful I am to have you in my life. You’re my best friend. We’re Kit and Kat, and nothing can stop us. Thank you for being here, thank you for sticking with me, but most importantly, thank you for being you. Here’s to years to come.

McKenzie Lacefield

I want to shout out to David Pravinchandra, someone who’s not just my brother but one of my closest friends.

Congrats on making it through these past four years. No matter how tough things got at home, you always kept your head up and never let anything get in the way of your educa-tion. I’m really proud of you, not only because you kept your grades up all these years, but because you just always tried your hardest in everything you accomplish and got back up every time you fell down.

Thank you for being such a big inspiration to me, always being here for me, helping me not to be anxious about life and teaching me to stand up for what I believe in. I hope you continue to strive for the best for yourself and stay on the right path.

This isn’t said much, but I really love you to the moon and back and once again. I truly am proud of you.

Lisette Pravinchandra

It’s been a long four years. I’ve met so many amazing people. I would like to thank all the in-structors in JROTC: Sgt. Ama-ro, who has become my second mom, 1SG Ruiz for supporting me, Sgt. Yangas for caring for me since freshman year, Sgt. Da-vis for always telling me things straight up and last, but not least, Colonel Baynes. He has moti-vated me all four years, pushed me to the limits and showed me that there are so may possibilities to accomplish anything I want. Thank you. I will miss all of you.

Also my best friends and JROTC family, you guys mean the world to me and I love you. Gissel, we’ve gotten so close over the last year. I’m proud of you and all your accomplishments. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. You know I’m here for anything.

Lisette, you’ve grown up so much this year, I know you’re going to be great next year, keep working hard and everything is going to pay off. Thank you for all your help and support this year.

Jonathan (Panda), thank you for be so goofy and crazy. You always made me laugh when I was down. I know you’re going to do great things. You know how much I appreciate everything. I love you, Fam.

Lastly, my babe. Junior, you know how I feel about you. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face and even though we haven’t been together long, you have given me so much support and encouragement. I couldn’t ask for anything better. You know how proud I am of you. Te quiero mucho.

Camila Pina

I’m going to miss you so much, Camila. I have some great memo-ries with you and I wish I could’ve met you sooner. I hope you don’t forget about me. But you are moving on in life and you I’d like to send a shout out to my mom for motivating me

everyday and being the best. To my dad, for helping me with all my projects and making them stand out from the rest. A big shout out to God for giving me wisdom and strength to keep going. To my bae, Juan, for being my number one fan and making my high school experience better. And, of course, my second mother, Ms. Laura. You have been my guardian angel here at Steinmetz. Love you guys.

Alisson Castellanos

We’ve had our ups and downs, but the great thing is that we have kept this friendship going and I am sure it will last.

Stephanie, thank you for always being there for me, en-couraging me to do my best and just being the greatest friend anybody could ask for. Marisol, thank you for always helping me in any way you can and giving me reality checks. I truly appreciate it. You guys are seriously the best in the world. I love you both so much and I know that we will still keep in contact after high school and continue to make great memories. Love you both.

Maggie Hernandez

won’t have time to look back. I wish you the best in life and I bet Javier is go-

ing to miss you the most. I am proud of you and I am always here for you no matter what. (Crying.) I’m going to miss you tons, Camila.

Johnny


Star Seniors26

Shout out to Desiree, Jailene, Brittany, Emony, Yesenia, Cynthia, Eyerusalem, Ashley, Bart, Maya, Genely, Amanda, Ana, Ms. Chaparro, Ms. Schmidt, Ms. Walsh, Ms. Stuber, Ms. Scolire, Mr. Pereyra, Ms. L, Ms. S, Ms. Russo and everyone else I have known at this school.

It has truly been a long jour-ney, but I have no regrets whatsoever.

Venice Gonzalez

To an amazing teacher:I want to give a special shout out to

the most amazing person. If it wasn’t for this person I think I wouldn’t have made it through my senior year. I am so thankful to have met this person. She helped me a lot, always pushed me to the extent. Never did she let me give up or say “I’m done.” A big, special shout out to Ms. Stuber. She was there for me since the beginning. I don’t know what I would’ve done without her. Thank so much for everything. You are the best. Flor Renteria

Shout out to the most important person in my life, my mother Beata. She always makes sure that I have everything I need and more. Even when sometimes I do not agree with her, it always ends up that she was right. I just want to say: “Kocham Cie!”

Love, daughter Zaneta Shout out to my younger brother Aleks.

This small, young man has taught me some-thing very important – to appreciate every day and be happy because of the small things that happen to me everyday, even though sometimes it is hard to see them.

Love, sis Zaneta Special and huge shout out to the IB Class

of 2016. I am glad that I became very close with my classmates. I know each one of you will accomplish great things in college and will become someone in the future. Just keep on pursuing your goals and never give up. It was not always easy, but I am grateful that I had the opportunity to met you. It is an honor to know you, share the memories and call you the family.

ZanetaSpecial thanks to all of my teachers that I

met throughout my three years at Steinmetz. The list is pretty long, but I just want to say that you always have pushed me to do more. I am thankful beyond words for your help and understanding. Because of the great teachers we have at Steinmetz, today I am who I am. It will be hard to hard leave, but it is time to move on.

Love, ZanetaShout out to staff members who make

sure that our school is clean, that we have food to eat and that we can feel safe most of the time. Your hard work is highly ap-preciated.

ZanetaShout out to Bart Labno and Kacper Sip.

I just wish you the best at U of I. Do not party too hard and hopefully I willI you there in two years.

Zanetka

Shout out to the best event-planner and friend, Ashley Komperda. I hope all your dreams will come true and ISU will be the best school choice you could have made.

Zabcia

Shout out to first period journalism seniors Jacara Adams, Juan Ceballos, Valery Cham-pion, David Ciechanowski, Yesenia Deluna, Kara Dziadosz, Brian Geans, Paris Glispie, Brian Geans, Luis Gomez, Venice Gonzalez, Gerardo Jerez, McKenzie Lacefield, Daniel Lozeau, Rosemary Mcgurn, Gisel Mendoza, Wiljalisha Mollfulleda, Olivia Nunez, Camila Pina, Flor Renteria, Maya Robinson, Alek-sander Samulak and Jai Torres.

Shout out to Newspaper Club reporters Karen Bahena, Desiree Erturk, Kayla Geralds, Jaren Jackson, Eyerusalem Coleman-Kitch, Diana Lagunas, Gerardo Martinez, Josh Mar-tinez, Tyffani Quintero, Karrina Stevens and Emony Tate.

It was a privilege to get to know you. Keep up the good work in college.Paragraph often and proofread, proofread, proofread.

Sincerely, Sharon Schmidt

Big shout out to Mrs. Del Valle. Your as-sistance on the college process was invaluable.

Thank you, Ms. Motto, for the scholar-ship. I hope to honor you and your husband’s legacy.

Thank you to my football coaches – Coach Mac, Coach Ochoa, and Coach Frank. You guys should have kicked me off the team, but decided not to. For that I am grateful.

Thank you, Coach Bags, for seeing this marshmallow soft kid four years ago and de-ciding to make him your personal project. I know I did not reach my full physical poten-tial, which is my fault, but you have literally helped shaped me into the young man I am today.

And big ups to Kowalczyk. Even though you weren’t my official coach, you took me under wing during your junior year, and helped me so much. I’ve always considered you the Obi-Wan to my Luke (that would mean that Bags is Yoda), and thank you being someone around my age that I can personally look up to.

Shout out to Coach Lefty and Mr. Wash-ington, too. Thank you for just being cool

guys that looked out for me. This is starting to feel like “Last Call” from

Kanye. Oh, how can I forget Yeezy? Shout out to him for his awesome art and for reminding me that it doesn’t matter if no one believes in me. As long as I believe in myself, I will go far, and for also teaching me to be mindful of who my real friends are, and to stay away from wolves. Oh, and shout out to Chance The Rapper for being the only artist I listened to who matured along with me in high school. I came into Steinmetz bumping 10 day, so it is only fitting that I leave while jamming to Coloring Book.

Shout out to Steinmetz’ two coolest alum-ni. Thank you Hugh Hefner, for donating your money to fund this paper, which I have had the pleasure of being an active member of for all my four years here, and for also being a pioneer in journalism. Can’t forget Hannibal Buress. You’re one of the funniest dudes out there, making me laugh and for making the graduation ceremony more than tolerable. I look up to the both of you for achieving so much success coming out of our high school, but with all due respect, I’m planning to be

the best writer to ever come out of Steinmetz.Thank you to all of my friends. I can’t name

you all, but just know that if I don’t, I’m still thankin’ ya in my heart. I’ll start with Angel and Alicia, aka my favorite couple. They be-grudgingly accepted me as their third wheel and I am grateful for that. Angel, you’ve been my A1 since day 1. You are the only guy who has shared classes with me since freshman year. Alicia, you are like the sister I would have had if my biological was my age. You tease me, but also look out for me. I hate how you’ve always been there for me whenever I want be sad and alone.

Special shoutout to three of the most lovely trolls in my life; Ashley, Kienna, and Karla. Ashley, I already talked about you in your profile, but thanks again for all of your help. Nothing but love for ya, bruh. Kienna, you’re like my little sister. You’re cheerful demeanor always makes me smile.You have also been a fountain for good advice, which I am not sure I can ever repay. Karla, you know that you’ll always be one of the most special people in my life. You are truly a great friend, and you taught me that people have to go through

tough times in order to recognize and appre-ciate the good times. Steven better keep on treating you right (shout out also to Steven Nunez for his awesome photography). Wish you all nothing but the best.

Shout out to Maria for being one my go-to helpers. She has been extremely generous and kind these past few years, mainly helping me with my art projects, including designing my prom poster.

Shout out to Isabelle, who might not even even read this because she goes to Lane. Thank you being such a lovely prom date. When I was getting prepared to ask, I didn’t think you would say yes for a second, but you did to my pleasant surprise.

To my two favorite Polish people; Bart and Zabcia. Bart, we don’t talk as much anymore, but you are still one of my best friends. I love you to death, I’m gonna miss the shit out of you while you’re in Champaign. Zaneta, you barely joined my BFF list in January but you have been so lovely, amazing and trustworthy ever since. One of the smartest people I know, and you will go far.


Star Seniors 27

To my support system that I get to call my best friends:

Words cannot even describe how much I appreciate all of you and will miss all of you. I am going to miss seeing each of you, but I promise to come visit every chance I get. I also promise to always have an open door for you all whenever you find yourself in Normal, Illinois.

Karla- I have known you since the 4th grade and I still can’t believe how much our friendship has grown. You have been one of my best friends since the very first day I met you. We have been through so much together. Next year will be the first year that I will not have any classes with you since the 4th grade. It’s crazy to think about. I love you to death! I’m so lucky to have you.

Ale- When you first joined the IB pro-gram, I questioned your presence. Since we never had classes sophomore year I had no clue you were in the program. I thought you were just some random kid that was in my homeroom. It wasn’t until the last day of school that I found out and it wasn’t until the last day that you and I started talking. I am so glad that you somehow found your way into my life because you have been an amazing friend to me.

Luke- You have been one of my best friends ever since I came to Steinmetz. I know that I can always depend on you and I just want to remind you that you can always de-pend on me. You have been there for me

when I was at my worst. You always put my happiness first, and for that I cannot thank you enough.

Kienna- I am so lucky that we met. There have been many obstacles that I had to over-come during my four years here at Steinmetz and you were right by my side through all of them. There are many things I probably would not have been able to get through without your guidance. Thank you for all the times you would check up on me and for all the little things you do to ensure a smile on my face. I love you!

Zaneta- I know that moving here from Poland was a big step for you. I am thrilled that we met sophomore year because I have never had a friend like you before. You are always so happy and you know how to make others laugh. You care for those around you and you are aware of the decisions you make. You are so dedicated towards every-thing you do. Not only are you one of my best friends, but you are also an inspiration to me.

Lastly, I want to thank Colin Quaglia for always being there for me when I needed him. Meeting him my freshman year was the highlight of high school for the simple fact that I was able to meet my best friend. Although he left high school in 2014, he has always been by my side. These last few years would not have been as memorable if it wasn’t for him. Ashley Komperda

Out of all my four years of being a cheer-leader, this has been my favorite team. You guys knew how much competition meant to me. You all pulled through to make sure that it happened and I cannot thank you enough. You have made my senior year memorable just for that reason. Your dedication amazes me. I want to thank you guys again for being part of my promposal and staying all those times after school when you didn’t have to. I could not ask for a better squad. I am going to miss each and every one of you next year. It was such an honor to be your captain. I can only hope that you guys continue to succeed. I want to wish all of you the best of luck with cheerleading and the next few years that you have here at Steinmetz. Although I will be away next year I want you all to know that I am always here for you. You girls are my cheer sisters and always will be.

Xoxoxo, Ashley Komperda

Shout out to my XC/TF team. Man, it has been one lit year with you guys. We’ve been on some Travis Scott stuff you know, party on a Sunday do it all again on Monday. I won’t forget these experiences I’ve shared with you guys. Bless up, guys, and keep grinding and partying.

Oh, it’s dat boi Jose! My right hand since 6th grade, although he says more like 8th, but ignore what he says. He’s been there for me through everything. Can’t thank you enough, man. If a genie said I had three wishes I would use one to have him as my best friend forever.

Shout out to the math squad, the only real squad. “I can’t really see an-other squad trynna’ cross us, naw.” You

guys will always be in my memory. I’ll never forget the amazing times we had. It’s been one wild ride, guys; thanks for every-thing.

Alejandro Alonzo

Alex, mi amigo. You’re a real friend, that’s all I can say. Same to Jose. You gave me a lift so many times without ever asking me for gas money. If that’s not the mark of a heart of gold, I don’t what is. And props to Stanley. You’re the real MVP because of the way you let noth-ing affect you. You might have the most cool, calm, collected demeanor of anyone I know.

Gerardo, Karen, Esmeralda, aka the people I spent my lunch with for 90 percent of the year. You are all awesome people with good souls. Gerardo, you’ve always been the coolest guy I know, and Karen, you are one of my fa-vorite artists and despite your mean comebacks toward me, I know your heart is in the right place. Esmeralda, you’re related to the G-man so you’re cool. Just kidding, you’ve always been one of the most chill people I know, and you’re one the few people I can talk to about DBZ.

Arnold and Fernando, my two favorite Republicans. Arnold, I gotta salute a future soldier like you, and you’re just an overall cool dude. I respect your morals and you’re stand-up guy. Wish you and Jackie the best. I expect an invite to the wedding. As for Fernando,

my OG, I don’t know what to think about you. For every good time we’ve had, there’s been two times I’ve just wanted to knock you upside the head. Ah, such is life. I’m gonna choose to focus on the good times, because there are plenty. Also, you’ve always unin-tentionally kept me on my toes. I know that at any given moment, we can be having an intellectual debate about practically anything, so I always make sure I’m up to date with the latest and most relevant information. So while you’re pretty shitty friend, I still have to shout you out.

Christian, my Puerto Rican brother from another mother. Oh man, we’ve had some good times in the last three years. Despite be-ing a year younger than me, you’re wise beyond your years and are probably more mature than me in some aspects. You’ve been my workout buddy, and your motivation will be missed.

Aldair, mi hermano! You were one the first friends I ever made at Metz, and even though we didn’t share any classes after freshman year, we’ve remained brothers since. You’re a great guy and you’re gonna do great things. We’ve

had a lot of good times, and I appreciate the bond we have.

My sports teams: football and track. Both of these teams have served as a brotherhood. Special shoutout to Luke (beast mode), Jai-me (the protein plug), AB (best man-bun in Metz), Aaron (that freak of nature), Alexis (PANDA), Jaren (kung-fu master), Justyn (most entertaining grizzly bear I know), Camacho (an upstanding psycho), Raul (a true gentleman) and Taesean (funniest guy in the locker room).

Props to my family for always keeping me on the right path. I have never been away from home, so I don’t know how I’ll manage when I’m dorming in college. You might see me often, you might not, but know that I will be using all of the lessons you have taught me to navigate my way toward life, and that wherever I am, I will be carrying you in my life.

I have to give a special shoutout to my older sister, Francine. Mom always says that I should write something about you in the paper, so here it is. Thank you for being the best damn older sister a little brother can have.

This girl has put up with so much of my bs. It’s kinda weird how she likes to make fun of me for being spoiled, but she’s easily one of my biggest “enablers.” She has been my chauffeur, she brings me food, and ever since I was born, I’ve been her little principe. Even though I like to make fun of her because she can be so annoying, old (even though she is 27) and boring or for being a “bird” or how I’ll move out the house before she does, she has possibly been my biggest personal role model. I have really taken after her by choos-ing to keep a more private life with a focus on education, meditation and self-improvement, all while being kind and respectful to others. Now I have followed her footsteps right into her alma mater, DePaul University.

Final props to anyone I have encountered in my life. Thank you for just being there. Life is a mystical thing, and we may never fully understand just how influential we have shaped each other’s future.

Alejandro Hernandez


Star Arts & Entertainment


2015 was a pretty good year for music, especially for one Aubrey Graham, bet-ter known mononymously as Drake. In

fact, there were only few artists who were as successful as he was last year, which was by far his most memorable calendar year in the music industry.

He started off right by dropping the sur-prise album, If You’re Reading This, It’s Too Late during the winter and continued his hot streak by dominating the summer radio by jumping on tracks with several of music’s hot-test stars, and winning the first round with his much publicized beef with Meek Mill by dropping the diss track “Back to Back.” Then he continued his reign in fall by making the full-length collaborative album What a Time to be Alive, with fellow rap star, Future Hen-drix (one of the only artists who had an equal to-or-greater-than 2015), and by releasing the biggest hit of his career at that time, the meme-generating behemoth known as “Ho-tline Bling.”

Despite having a such a good year, let’s be honest here: 2015 belonged through and through to King Kunta himself, Kendrick Lamar. The hip-hop crown still eluded Drake, but he looked more than poised to finally snatch it in 2016 with his highly anticipated fourth solo album, Views From The 6, which was later shortened to VIEWS. Fans and music critics alike had high hopes, with many blogs saying that it had to be Drake’s magnum opus if he wants to be considered a consensus leg-end, and the singles he put out leading up to its release certainly sounded good.

When Drake finally released VIEWS on Apple Music, instead of being met with his best stuff yet, a lot of listeners were left with disappointment. An album that was being hyped as one of the year’s best before it official-ly dropped turned out to be one of the most average-sounding projects of the year, some-thing unexpected from an artist of Drake’s stature and talent. VIEWS is certainly not all bad, but it is certainly not all great either.

The GoodLet’s start off with the positives. The beats

are A1. Production is mostly handled by Drake’s right hand man, Noah “40” Shebib, and Drake actually posted a well-deserved thank you note to him on social media. 40 has been with Drake since the very beginning, but is only just now getting any type of major recognition. In an era where the producers are becoming just as big of stars, if not bigger stars (think Metro Boomin’ or DJ Khaled), as the guys rapping on the tracks themselves, it is about time 40 gets recognized after hiding in the shadows for so long. The sonic aspect of the album is really shaped by him (he is cred-ited as either the main or co-producer on virtu-ally every song), and he does a masterful job at it. The sound ranges from Jamaican dancehall vibes found in standout record “One Dance” to the more dark and aggressive sound on “Still Here” to the Kanye-esque chipmunk soul sample on “Weston Road Flows.” The produc-tion for the album’s intro, “Keep the Family

Close,” is so beautiful and orchestral, it sounds like it can be from a film score.

One of the things that can be appreciated from the album is that Drake and 40 incor-porate Toronto’s rich history of Caribbean immigrants by making some dancehall-in-fluenced tracks, which stand out among the album’s best. Along with “One Dance,” these tracks include “Controlla,” “With You” feat. PARTYNEXTDOOR, and “Too Good” feat. Rihanna. The artists featured on the two latter tracks are also hail from Jamaica and Barbados, respectively, showing the thought that went behind the new tropical sound. The decision works out at the end and the collaborations are flawless.

The BadTime for the bad part, which is the actual

rapping aspect. Let me start off by saying that I think Drake is good, not great, rapper. He can be great if he begins to evolve his lyrical abilities, which he has the potential to do since it is one of the reasons why his 2015 was so damn good. Last year, he began to show growth by moving away the down-on-his-luck, crooning sensitive guy image he first got famous for, and started to embrace his role as the cocky villain, which he shows here and there in Views in tracks like “Hype” (I hate a goofy especially/They always dyin’ to mention me/They gotta die out eventually) and “Still Here” (And I see your girl like all the time, all the time, tho/I can’t tell you if she’s yours or mine, but I do know). Not surprisingly, these tracks are among the better ones in the album, showing that Drake can drop some heat while not taking crap from anyone. Instead of trying to convince the audience that he is the best, if he just focused on actually making songs like he is the best, VIEWS would have been much better.

For most of the album though, Drake takes a step backwards and makes songs that sound similar to his early stuff, filled with whiny lyrics and terribly corny punchlines.

Instead of thinking outside of the box, he opts to comfortably set up shop inside it. The result is a rapper who wants to be taken seriously as the best, but thinks that it is acceptable to drop lines like “Six upside down, it’s a nine now,” “You toyin’ with it like Happy Meal,” and “And my wifey is a spice like I’m David Beckham.” These are just some of the numer-ous examples of weak lines that are simply poor attempts at being clever puns, but none of them quite live up to “Got so many chains they call me Chaining Tatum,” which might be the worst line of the year so far, and this is coming from a guy who endured some of Kanye West’s worst lines in The Life of Pablo.

Normally, corny lines can get a pass if they are delivered with energy and humor (think Kanye) or if they flow so well with the song, that they blend in enough to go unnoticed (think Young Thug). Drake does neither, opt-ing to deliver his lines so flat and dry, you’d think you’re riding through Death Valley. Seriously, his lines are just as silly as that last sentence. It is not confirmed whether or not Drake used any ghostwriters on this album, but if he did, then he needs to fire the them and hire some new ones, ASAP. If he didn’t use them, then he better call up the guys from IYRTITL and tell them to prep for his next project.

The InconsistentThe most disappointing songs in my book

are “Grammys” and “Pop Style.” Starting with the latter, the original single version featuring Kanye West is not the same version used in the album. The single version features one okay verse (and the infamous Chaining Tatum line) from Drizzy, but is then immediately overshadowed by a complete renegade verse from Yeezy, in one the best guest spots of the 2016. The album version of the song has no features, and ‘Ye’s renegade is replaced with another decent Drake verse that is only slightly better than the first verse. The sinister beat is the only redeeming quality for this song.

As for “Grammys”, the main source of it’s disappointment comes from the fact that this was a Drake and Future collaboration, which usually strikes gold. This song though was just a knockoff version of “Jumpman” with repetitive lyrics, flow changes and a similar beat pattern. Unlike their previous collabs, this one just does not mesh well more than likely due to fact that Young Metro is lacking from the song’s production. That or it is just a poorly made song.

The overall project is just inconsistent. More or less than half the tracklist is worth lis-tening to. There are even records on there that are indicative of the entire borderline-levelness of the album like “Weston Road Flows” and “U With Me?.” These are tracks with some of the best production on the entire album, but are dragged down by average songwrit-ing and struggle bars. Not trying to compare and contrast two different musical projects, but one has to admit that it is ironic that, in terms of quality and consistency, Drake’s 20 track rollout of his supposed “classic” doesn’t even hold a candle to Kendrick’s untitled un-mastered, an 8-track EP of throwaway songs that didn’t make it to his own classic album.

It is also ironic that one of VIEWS’ best songs is “Hype,” because that is basically what the whole project is. It is more style than sub-stance that, like the artist behind it, is good, but not great. Although it did not meet certain expectations, it certainly did not fail to reach the hype. It did become the first album to sell a million copies this year and gave Drake his first number one single, which is impressive in it’s own right.

At it’s worst, VIEWS is sub-par with for-gettable tracks. At it’s best, VIEWS is actually pretty good with some memorable songs that are bound to be heard blasting on car speak-ers and parties. In a way, this should have been what we been expecting the entire time because this is what Drake has built his whole career off of. Expecting anything more than that would just be doing the listener a disser-vice by setting them up for disappointment.

In summation, 40 Shebib is the real MVP.

Tracklist:1. Keep the Family Close2. 93. U With Me?4. Feel No Ways5. Hype6. Weston Road Flows7. Redemption8. With You ft. PARTYNEXTDOOR9. Faithful ft. Pimp C & dvsn10. Still Here11. Controlla12. One Dance ft. Wizkid and Kyla13. Grammys ft. Future14. Child’s Play15. Pop Style16. Too Good ft. Rihanna17. Summers Over Interlude (Performed

by Majid Al Maskati)18. Fire & Desire19. Views20. Hotline Bling (Bonus Track)•

28

VIEWS offers hype, but falls short of potential

Band and Choir Spring ShowcaseContinued from Page 20

Photos by Brian Geans


Star Arts & Entertainment


Upon the release of the highly antici-pated and well-received The Life of Pablo by Kanye West in mid-Feb-

ruary, one of the most talked about aspects from the project was young Chicago artist Chance The Rapper’s legend-in-the-making guest verse in the album’s opening track, “Ultralight Beam.” The collaboration not only represented the soon-to-be changing of the guard as the face of Chicago music, but it was also when Chance announced to the world that he would be releasing his third mixtape in the near future, and that it would be incredible:I made Sunday Candy, I’m never going to hellI met Kanye West, I’m never going to failHe said let’s do a good ass job with Chance threeI hear you gotta sell it to snatch the GrammyLet’s make it so free and the bars so hardThat there ain’t one gosh darn part you can’t tweetThis is my part, nobody else speak.

The New People’s Champion is HereColoring Book is finally here and the

promise was not only fulfilled, but expecta-tions were astronomically surpassed. At the ripe age of 23, Lil Chano from 79th is all grown up, and his new music is a reflection of the leaps and bounds he has made since he first became a reputable name in the music industry.

He is no longer the immature high school slacker rapping during his two-week suspen-sion after getting arrested for smoking weed, as chronicled in his stellar debut solo mixtape 10 Day. He is no longer the chain smoking 20-year old living life in the fast lane and experimenting with different drugs, which was expressed in his breakout sophomore tape Acid Rap.

He’s still a self-proclaimed “Grown Ass Kid,” but his perspective on life has changed dramatically ever since the birth of his daugh-ter last year, to which Coloring Book is dedi-cated to. He has totally cleaned up his act by cutting down his drug use, becoming a more proactive member of society and realizing just how truly blessed his life is.

Coloring Book continues the growing trend of hip-hop artists expressing the role of religion in their life by making faith a major theme in their albums, recent examples being Kanye’s The Life of Pablo, Kendrick’s To Pimp a Butterfly and Vince Staples’s Summertime ‘06. However, none of them express faith as thoroughly as Mr. Bennet does. While other artists have made religion one of the important themes in their work, Chance’s firm belief sys-tem is the preeminent theme of his tape, and it is oh so glorious. While there are a handful of legit gospel tracks out of a possible 14, biblical references are used in virtually every song, which isn’t a bad thing. I mean, if you’re gonna name drop, why not drop the name of the Big Fella Upstairs?

Since we are on the topic of gospel-in-fluenced music, even though it is not fair to compare stylistically different albums that are both successful in their approaches, Coloring Book does a better job of being the gospel album with a lot cursing than The Life of Pablo is labeled as.

Chance pours his heart and soul out. You can hear his love and passion for all the im-portant aspects of his life. Along with his faith, he praises his future wife and daughter, the family that raised him and his city. He exudes so much positive energy that I dare anyone to try and not smile at all while listening to any one of the 14 listed tracks.

While braggadocio has a place as an im-portant component of hip-hop culture, much of today’s radio rap is filled to the brim with songs about luxury and hubris. So, it is quite refreshing to hear someone on Power 92 or WGCI talk about being able to appreciate

the simple pleasures in life, making genuinely feel-good music while also instilling Chicago pride. He is, after all, a prominent member of local rap collective, SAVEMONEY, whose very name goes against the “ball out ‘til we fall out” stereotype in today’s mainstream music.

With the current stigma surrounding Chi-cago, or “Chiraq” as it has been called, Chance-lor Bennett has emerged as the face and voice of peace and positivity in the city. Whether it be his involvement with youth Open Mike events at Harold Washington Library, shining a light on the problems plaguing Chicago’s inner-city, teaming up with a Detroit-based charity to give warm coats and sleeping bags to thousands of the city’s homeless during the winter season or his vocal disapproval of the cover up for Jason Van Dyke’s murder of Laquan McDonald, Chance truly gives a damn about his city and his people, and he is making sure to use his platform to try and make a difference. As Chance humbly says in the tape’s very last song, “They never seen a rapper practice modesty/I never practice, I only perform.”

Freedom MusicA review could be written for each track

on how incredible each one is. Picking and choosing standout tracks is a little difficult just because of the parity between each record and how they individually stand out in their own unique way. There are some great tunes that you can just really vibe to at a high vol-ume when you’re just riding in your car like “Angels” or “No Problem,” two of the most infectiously fun songs of the year. The former is Chano’s tropical-influenced appreciation thread to his personal life and Chicago. The latter is an autotuned warning to any and all music label trying to impede on his notori-ously strong independent status.

Other songs are going to sound great at parties, whether it be the up-tempo Chicago house music-esque, Kaytranada produced “All Night,” or the silky-smooth, Justin Bieber-assisted slow dance ode to his younger days finding summer love in the roller rink, “Juke Jam.” Some songs sound like they could be performed at church like in “Finish Line/Drown” or both versions of “Blessings,” with their simple yet elegant beats backed by a gospel choir, and religious themed lyrics.

Then, there are other tracks where you just have to take the time and really pay at-tention to in order to truly appreciate them, such as “Same Drugs,” a song that uses Peter Pan references and the act of quitting certain

drugs as metaphor for maturing and growing away from people you care about. Another is the melancholy “Summer Friends,” which serves as a bittersweet ode to the nostalgia of childhood innocence (“JJ, Mikey, Lil Derek and them/79th street was America then” as Chance reminisces), while also being a somber eulogy for all the friends Chance, or anyone living with survivor’s guilt for that matter, lost during the summer season due to senseless violence (“First day, n*gga’s shooting/Summer school get to losing students”). Songs like these serve as an important reminder in Chance’s music that while we should not dwell in the past by appreciating the blessings in our lives and always enjoy the present, we have to look back every once in awhile, no matter painful, in order to truly grow and look forward to brighter days in the future.

There were more than a few pleasant sur-prises, such as Chano’s expert use of autotune in a few songs, despite the fact that it marks the first time of him using it in his music. Other unexpected aspects were some of the guest spots, featuring artists you would never expect to see Chance jump on a track with, such as Future on “Smoke Break,” 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne (resurrecting his Carter III days) on “No Problem,” his first collaboration with Bieber in more than two years, and of course, it cannot be a gospel album until Kirk Franklin drops some prayers.

By far the most surprising collaboration was with Young Thug and Lil Yachty, who both appear on “Mixtapes,” a song paying homage to the ubiquitous rap mixtape, a me-dium that arguably serves as the backbone to hip-hop culture. Giving credit where it is due, props go to Thugger who, despite his polariz-ing solo work, does know how to compliment songs as a featured artist. Even Lil Yachty, widely considered to be poorly skilled, can start rapping in a similar way to his guest verse, then he might just be able to have pretty damn good career.

Despite finally being able to work with these big names, Chance was once a local artist just trying to get his name out there, working with other local artists trying to do the same. He does not forget his humble beginnings, and he continues his tradition of working with other Chicago musicians such as Noname Gypsy, Jamila Woods, Saba, Towkio and some crazy dude who likes to call himself Yeezus.

One of the best things about Coloring Book is that Chance puts an emphasis on putting meaning behind each and every song. He went on record saying there are no throw-

away bars in his mixtape, and as a result, every song is wonderfully filled with clever rhymes, genius-level lyricism, and truly poetic song-writing. Two songs which that are definitely in the top three of the soundtrack are “Blessings (Reprise)” and “How Great,” each containing two of Chance’s best verses in a mixtape (and career) that’s already chock-full of outstand-ing ones, with the latter also featuring a verse from the elusive but always outstanding Jay Electronica.

The production – handled almost exclu-sively by The Social Experiment crew – is ab-solutely flawless and you can tell that everyone who was involved brought their A-game. Per-fect beats were chosen and tweaked to sound just right and mixed with live instrumenta-tion, something that has become a lost art in hip-hop. The overall sound is a fantastic stew of gospel, jazz, old school boom-bap and even some new school trap vibes. One the best decisions that went into the project was also the use of live vocal recordings of the Chicago Children’s Choir singing. Songs features a choir singing in the background was sung by 16 lucky Chicago kids. The end result is a human element that adds just a little bit more of soulfulness that just makes the spirit feel better.

No matter what said in this review, words honestly cannot do Coloring Book justice. Coloring Book joins a personal shortlist of perfect pieces of sonic art. Other people’s opin-ions are going to be different, but I have no complaints. It not only ranks as my favorite soundtrack of the year, but it ranks as one of my all-time favorite pieces of music.

A Pioneering ProjectWhether or not it will snatch a Grammy

award remains to be seen considering the cur-rent rules restricting free music from being nominated, however that rule is on the verge of being changed in the near future. Regardless of whether or not it wins a Grammy, Coloring Book is bound to be remembered as one the best and most important full-length projects of 2016 and the music scene is bound to be a little more interesting now that Chance The Rapper’s name is officially added to the mix of best MCs.

For someone who claims “I don’t believe in kings, believe in the Kingdom,” Mr. Bennett justifiably takes his stake at being the heir apparent to hip-hop’s throne and to that, this writer can only say this: Thank you, Chance.

Tracklist:1. All We Got (feat. Kanye West & Chicago

Children’s Choir)2. No Problem (feat. 2 Chainz and Lil

Wayne)3. Summer Friends (feat. Jeremih & Francis

& The Lights)4. D.R.A.M Sings Special5. Blessings6. Same Drugs7. Mixtape (feat. Young Thug & Lil Yachty)8. Angels (feat. Saba)9. Juke Jam (feat. Justin Bieber & Towkio)10. All Night (feat. Knox Fortune)11. How Great (feat. Jay Electronica &

My cousin Nicole)12. Smoke Break (feat. Future)13. Finish Line / Drown (feat. T-Pain, Kirk

Franklin, Eryn Allen Kane & Noname)14. Blessings (Reprise) (feat. Ty Dolla $ign)

[Editor’s note: Coloring Book was sup-posed to include called another track called “Grown Ass Kid,” but was scrapped due to a sample clearance issue. It was leaked though, and I highly recommend listening to it on soundcloud for it still captures the essence of CB and would have been one the best records on the project. It also features Alex Wiley and Mick Jenkins, who might be the best young Chicago artist not named Chancellor.]•

29

Coloring Book exudes positive energy


Star Seniors30

By Kinga Tarasiewicz

The Star interviewed Karla Colula, a junior on the track and field team.

How do you feel when you run?It feels awesome to run. For me running helps me

feel less stress about school and homework. I see run-ning as a time to relax and just to get things off my head. Plus it feels good to run with your teammates.

What made you want to join track?I was encouraged by my sister and friends. I de-

cided to join because I’ve heard so many good things about the team.

Did you ever want to give up? I never want to give up because, to me, track and

cross country are what I look forward to the most. I love running, but most importantly, I have such an awesome coach and teammates who always keep me motivated. •


Thinking of joining a new gym? Trying to lose weight or gain muscle? Then look no further than Steinmetz’s own

weight room, which is usually always open five days a week until 5:30.

“It’s a great asset to the school,” said Coach Paul Bagdonas, who serves as the keeper of the gates for the weight room. “A lot of kids come in. There’s a group of soccer kids, track and football guys, some girls come in, even kids I don’t know come in and lift.”

The weight room is a great place to come to after school whether you’re looking to get in shape or as therapy in order to just blow off steam. Either way, you will see results in physi-cal and mental improvements, such newfound strength and confidence. The best part about it is that it’s much cheaper than nearby gyms.

“It’s a free health club,” Mr. Bagdonas said. “Kids come in not knowing what to do, so we help them, and they end up getting stronger

and improving in their respective sports. We get the music going, everybody respects each other, and people use it very efficiently with no problem.”

A regular face one will see is that of junior Christian Torres. As an active member of the football and track & field teams, he has been using the weight room almost everyday for the last three years.

“I come in and workout in the morning and afternoons,” he said. “Everybody should

really come in and use it because there is really no excuse not to come in.”

Half the battle with working out is the actual act of coming in and actually putting in work, but as Christian says, it’s all mental.

“You can achieve anything you put your mind to,” he said. “I’m always willing to help out anyone who comes in and some advice to anyone who is thinking about joining is to focus on your whole body instead of just your arms and chest.”

If you’re already an active member, then encourage your friends to work out with you. As more people use it, then perhaps more funds will go into improving the equipment.

“I would like to see it get built up,” Mr. Bagdonas said. “I would like to see more kids, and even see more teachers be involved, so that they can see some their own students in a new light.”

While it might not be fancy, the weight room has everything you really need – bench-es, squat racks, dumbbells, medicine balls and some other nice equipment – plus you can use the second floor hallways and staircase for cardio.

Anyone interested in working out should just come by the weight room after school with a solid plan of what to do. If you do not have a plan, just ask Mr. Bagdonas, Chris-tian, or any of the regulars for help, and they will surely be more than glad to assist you in anyway.•


The Star interviewed senior Jocelyn Sanders about the girls track and field team.

What are your thoughts on track?Track is really tiring and hard.Why did you join?I wanted to be fit and a part of the team.What are your thoughts on your coach?Coach Abel Pereyra is a really good coach who knows

how to motivate the team.How long have you been on the track team?This is my first year, but my goal is to be on a track

team in college.What would your life would be like without track?I can’t see myself doing it. I think I would be pretty

lazy.How did you improve?At first, I wasn’t used to any of the girls and I’d get

tired quickly when running. Now I’m more comfortable around the girls and used to the running.

What is your favorite part of track?I like the motivation of the team and the coach.What is your least favorite part of it?The suicide drills, which is where we run down the hall

and up the stairs while throwing a ball at the same time.What would you change about track?I would rather have the practices after school than

before school.Who are your inspirations?I look up to the coach and Melanie Rolan, who is a

really fast runner and the way she can stretch is crazy.Who are your supporters?Allison, Ashley and Coach Pereyra.How has track affected your life?I used to be lazy, unmotivated, and undedicated, now

I’m more aware and interactive. •

Track and field pushes student athletes

Get fit in the Steinmetz weight room

By Karla Colula

This track and field season has been incredible and memorable for many reasons.

For some girls it was their first year of track; for others, it was their second or third year and for some, their fourth and, sadly, their last.

What makes this team the best is that we’re all united and so supportive of one another. We’re always there for each other if we’re ever in need of help.

Although this season went by so fast, as a team we accomplished so many things together. This season wasn’t only amazing, but also crazy because we experi-enced having to run in extreme weather with freezing temperatures and pouring rain. Even so, every girl was out there was cheering for one another not caring about the weather.

Although so many seniors are leaving us this year, they will always be part of the track team because without them the track team would’ve never been what is today. Every single girl graduating this year has contributed something unique to the team. Every single one of them has shown commitment, passion and love to this team.

We are all so thankful for the amazing coach we have, CoachPereyra and our assistant coaches Mercedes Reyes and Ms. Karena Childs. Thanks to Coach P. we’ve learned so many things about ourselves and about running.

I wish nothing but the best for our seniors in the future and I hope they all experienced unforgettable memories during their high school years. Thank you all for making this track season amazing and memo-rable.•Running eases stress

Persoanl growth result of joining track

Seniors were honored at the team’s June 3 banquet where Coach Pereyra announced the 2016 Track & Field Awards: Most Valuable Athlete – Maria Figueroa; Most Improved Athlete – Jahira Damian; Best New Athlete – Rubi Trujillo;

Most Dedicated Athlete – Diana Levko; Student Athlete of the Year – Melanie Rolon; Student Athlete of the Year – Teresa Martinez.

Photos by Alejandro Hernandez


By Kimberly Degante

We had big success in softball this year as JV ended the year with a record of a record of 9-3. We

finished up stronger than ever. We defeated Schurz 11-10 on May 11

to end the regular season. The team lost a playoff game against Washington, but it prepared many JV players for varsity next year, to know what to expect.

Many players had a great two years. They improved so much since the begin-ning of the season.

Lia Cruz, #26, catcher for the JV team, answered the Star’s questions:

“The best part about softball is winning and being proud of ourselves,” she said. “One of my challenges playing is trying to make sure everyone is paying attention, including myself. I can say that the team works together a lot, we motivate each other and if we lose, we just shake it off and play harder.”

“The advice I could give to girls who want to play is don’t give up,” Lia said. “Yeah, it’ll get hard and all and the coaches expect a lot from you, but you’re learn to love the sport and it’ll end up being a lot of fun once you get the hang of it.”

Newcomer Michelle Villanueva, #5, an outfielder, also said that being on the team is fun.

“The best part about softball is being able to be part of a team, having fun with everyone,” she said. “During practice we all help each other become better so we’re building a great bond over time. Our first game was amazing, so much fun helping each other look good out in the field.”

Michelle said keeping up at school and home responsibilities during the season are challenging, but that the “team is very sup-portive; everyone is nice with each other.”

Freshman Sabrina Marrero, #70, was one of the members on the team that all the players were thankful that they had in the beginning. She stepped up and de-cided to pitch for the JV team, which was outstanding.

“My advice for girls who want to play is always pay attention and practice when-ever you can,” she said. “And always get along with your teammates.”•

Star Seniors 31

By Luis Gomez

The Streaks varsity baseball team went 11-0 in conference this year, which put them in first place for the first

time in nine years. “We have a team full of juniors that

have the potential to compete with the top teams in the city next season,” Coach Renato Roldan said.,

Beating neighborhood rivals was a great accomplishment this season, as well as two no-hitter games by juniors Raymond Perez and Esteban Ramos.

In spite of the conference success, junior Xavier Aguirre said he was disappointed in the city and state playoff games against Brooks and Taft.

“Our bats slowed down,” he said.Coach Roldan spoke to the Star about

some of the things that made him proud this season:

I’m proud of watching Zack and Ray becoming super mature and realizing the

difference between being a kid who is on a baseball team and being a real baseball player.

I really enjoyed watching the team study halls where they helped and motivated each other on their homework and projects. I en-joyed watching Anton become a super part of this team after spending his first two years chilling in the hallways.

Coach Lefty is the perfect role model for these kids. His technical skills of the game and his personal approach helped mold this team into conference champion. Without him the team would not have achieved such a high level of success.

Special shoutout to Jordan Gonzalez for elevating his game and controlling that in-field. The team’s future looks bright with the freshman crew..•

The varsity Streaks included freshmen Myon Dalton, Edwin Valentin and Ricky Robles; sophomores – Ken-neth Delgado and Kyle Beliakoff; juniors Anton Gallegos, Jordan Gonzalez, David Jimenez, Xavier Aguirre, Zachery Marrero, Raymond Perez and Esteban Ramos and seniors Josh Martinez and Elias Nieves (right photos). With only two players leaving varisty, the team looks to be even stronger next year, with many juniors ocontinuing to improve their skills.

Streaks baseball win conference

A great season for varsity and JV Streaks softball

By Kimberly Degante

The Streaks varsity softball went 12-3 this season, com-ing in second in conference.

The Star interviewed starting pitcher, sophomore Rachael Feazelle, #34, and starting catcher, graduating senior Amanda Pagan.

What is the best part about softball?Amanda: The best part of softball has to be when you

play your first game of the season. When I played my first game in each of my four years, it made me excited and nervous all in one.

Rachael: Being on the field with all my teammates having fun and striving for the same goals.

What’s one of your challenges?Amanda: Adjusting to a new team and a different pace.

Going from JV to varsity is a big difference. It takes time learning a “different” game.

Rachael: Making sure everyone on the team stay positive even when things aren’t going well for the team. We have an amazing team; all the girls are really motivated. The first game was very stressful because we had a rocky start but we never gave up and in the end we pulled through and had a great win over Lincoln Park.

What advice can you give to the girls who want to learn to play?

Amanda: Don’t be afraid. Don’t be afraid of what you think you can or can’t do. Our coaches make sure that you know what you need to know for the game in advance. They teach you the basics and the advance. So don’t be afraid to try something new.

Shout outs? Amanda: All our coaches are amaz-

ing. They take time out of their sched-ules for their team. Without them I wouldn’t have gotten where I am today. Not only were they my coaches, but also my teachers. They stood by me all my four years, kept me in check when I wasn’t on track with grades.

Rachel: Shout out to some of the seniors on the team, Desire, Stephanie, Ashley and my catcher Amanda. This last season with you guys was memorable.

Desiree Erturk: I’m sending Ms. Russo a shout out for a great softball season. It was a good season with all our wins. Sadly, we couldn’t win conference, but it doesn’t matter because it’s all about teamwork and just having fun on the field, and that’s all you wanted from me. I gave you my all in softball.

Since you were dedicated to your players, I was dedicated to you. Thanks for all you have done for me and for dealing with me for four years.

To Coach Chaparro: You’re a great coach and great teacher. I’m going to miss you.•

Softball photos courtesy Yearbook


Star Seniors32


The boys track and field team finished the season with Aaron Austin and Damion Brown competing at the the state meet

held at Eastern Illinois University on May 20.Aaron participated in discus and he and

Damion were entered in the long and triple jump.

“It feels good going to state, but I’m already planning for next year,” Austin said. “I’m ready to break our school’s weak discus record of 135 by 30 feet.”

It was a year of up and downs.“I didn’t know what to expect this year,”

Coach Paul Bagdonas said. “I expected my jumpers to do well, and expected my main thrower to do well, especially in city, but we didn’t do as well I thought. I didn’t know what to expect from my distance guys, but they held their own.”

It was a fairly inconsistent year for the field events, as throwers stagnated in the shot put and some jumpers dealt with grade check problems throughout the year.

The season did have some great successes, ending with the high note of Aaron and Da-mion competing at state.

High hopes are set for next season. “I expect distance to get stronger, I expect

my jumpers to be top 10 in the city, and I expect Austin to be the top dog in discus and shot put,” Bagdonas said. I expect us to be city champions, but we’ve got a long summer of hard work before we get there.”

The task will not be easy. Extra coaching help be needed, which was luckily the case for this year thanks to first-year coach Mychal Moore and the volunteer help from Steinmetz graduates.

Coach Moore took charge of the sprint-ers and jumpers year round, while alumni Anthony Kowalczyk, Kaylon Smith, Alexis Sarabia and Brandon Pozos came in between breaks from college to help with areas they had participated in (throwing, sprinting, and distance) when they competed for Steinmetz just a few years ago.

“Mr. Moore has been a great asset this year taking care of the sprinters,” Coach Bagdonas said. “There’s only a few of them, but they can be handful. Having former student-athletes come by who were a part of that indoor city championship team was also great. They know how to be champions and they help the team out get better just with these little hints and new workouts.”

Former thrower and current school record

holder for shot put, Anthony Kowalczyk, added on to that sentiment.

“It’s feels good to give back and take the things I’ve learned in college, along with what I learned from Bags, and help everyone get better,” Anthony said. “Especially now that we have a couple juniors going to state with so much potential to get better. It’s really special to be a part of it.”

Hopefully, this year’s group of seniors will come back to help next year while they’re in college, but until then, they are just happy to have been apart of the team in the first place. Senior thrower Justyn Williams has fond memories.

“It was great and I loved it,” he said. “I’m just going add on to my strength in college.”

Distance runner Ab Delcid is also glad to have been a team member.

“Even though I was only on the team for two years, I loved the experience and wish I joined freshman year so that I could have developed more,” he said.

“I still developed a lot, and had good expe-riences making a new family. Going to college, I’m just going to focus on gaining more speed and developement.”

Personally speaking, being a member on the track team ranks among my favorite high school experiences in the last four years of high school. I never planned on joining, but Bags really suckered me into it. It worked out for the best because I got in shape and met a lot of new friends. There was never a dull

moment on track. The team itself is really strange collection of

odd characters, but I am going to miss spend-ing time in the locker room telling jokes and dancing to music until Bagdonas kicked us out, or riding on the bus to and from meets and freestyling or just trash-talking one an-other.

I’m going to miss cheering on my team-mates during their competitions and I’m going to miss all the runners begging for life after their marathons while I just chilled reading my books and eating snacks after my throws. Bless those crazy sons of guns.

If there is one thing I know won’t be the same in college, it will be my time as member of the Steinmetz Boys Track & Field Team.•

Track celebrates success, looks to next year


The Star interviewed distance run-ner senior Ab Delcid.

Has track helped change you?

Track has helped me to stay focused and keep my body in shape.

If you weren’t in track, where do you think you would be in life?

Focusing in class to graduate, but things would be different when it comes to meeting new people and I wouldn’t have gone on the adventures I’ve been on.

Why track?Someone recommended joining the

team during my junior year, but I was on the track team in sixth grade and loved it; that made me want to join in high school.

What do you like about it?I like the races. You never know

what to expect in them; they’re intense and it’s just a thrill.

Do you want to run in college?Yes, I do, I’m hoping to expand my

skills. In college, sports are an even big-

ger deal than they are in high school.Who inspires you the most?Usain BoltWhat did you get out of this

sport?I learned teamwork. As a team, we

worked together to accomplish a goal to win. I also learned dedication and what it is to be committed to a sport.

What do you think about your coach?

Mr. Bagdonas is a great coach who pushes me further to set a goal for my-self for every race. His support during practice and when I run makes me proud to have him as my coach.

Would you recommend track to anyone? If so, why?

Yes, I would, because it sets your mind to become a better person, both mentally and physically. It gives you the mindset to actually want to run more and expect more for yourself.•

Ab Delcid, running helps focus

By Ezra Chavez

My friend Alex Alonzo has been a huge in-fluence for me my

sophomore year. This year we have become a lot closer due to the both running cross country and track. The team developed a strong, family-like bond.

I looked up to everyone on my cross country and track teams, but especially Alex be-cause he works very hard in school and sports and that motivates me to do better for myself. Overall, we just had a lot of fun times together that I will never forget.

I will truly miss the Class of 2016 and all of my close senior friends that I made this year. •

Thanks to Alex and seniors on the team

Photos by Jaren Jackson

Photo by Jaren JacksonPhoto by Jaren Jackson

Damion Brown at state Aaron Austin at state

steinmetz star · 2016-06-14 · steinmetz star volume 81, number 5, may-june 2016 in this issue...

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