By: Marlena B. (’20)
It’s no secret that track is a stressful sport. Most people have likely heard their friends complaining endlessly about the races, the training and all the pain and stress that goes along with it. So why do these people come back year after year despite these challenges? How do they deal with the stress to compete successfully? I decided to interview some current track members to find out.
By: Sarina D. (’19)
Most of us are familiar with the term alliance group, and have seen or participated in some form of this specialized type of community through organizations such as the Gender Sexuality Alliance or a culture club. In the past few decades, alliance groups have been normalized in American high schools and communities, and are becoming increasingly prevalent and diversified across the board. Crystal is no exception. Our campus is home to a variety of alliance groups, from GSA to Asian Culture Club to French Club, and we utilize these spaces to bring together people with a common commitment to an identifier group, e.g race, gender, religion, family status. In essence, an alliance group is a place for members of said group and people who support and stand in solidarity with that group to advocate for its benefits.
By: Max D. (’18)
In August of 2016, the University of Chicago sent a letter to its incoming freshman plainly stating that the college would not support or encourage ‘trigger warnings’ or ‘safe spaces’. The university asserted that allowing students to shape the school’s curriculum away from material that was controversial or uncomfortable would hamper the freedom given to their professors to pursue ideas and challenge established thought.
By: Amy Z. (‘19)
What really happened that Monday morning a few weeks ago when all upperclassmen seemingly disappeared from campus after a half-hearted, unexplained two-minute appearance onstage?
By: Sarina D. (‘19)
This year, Crystal’s diversity and equity initiatives are at an all-time high, with a new program focused on continuity throughout the high-school experience and preparing students for the world not just academically but as open-minded and thoughtful human beings. At the center of these initiatives is the director of a new position dedicated predominantly to equity and social justice here in our community–Ms. Wade.
By: Maddie E. (’21) , Meghna M. (’21) , Sabrina H. (’21)
When I stepped off of the shuttle in front of the mansion on the first day of school, I was immediately struck with a sense of familiarity… but also a slight sense of nervousness. This was the first time since the earliest moments of 6th grade that I’d been on the Crystal campus without knowing what was about to happen next. For the past three years, I’d gotten used to my classes, teachers, and friendships; now, my beloved routine was about to be kicked to the curb. I’ll be honest, my mind was prepared for the worst.
By: Caitlin R. (’20)
Have you ever been stressed? Me too. Considering we go to Crystal, I wouldn’t be surprised if almost every student here has experienced feeling overwhelmed by homework, sports, and everything in general. In order to keep my stress levels down, I use some stress-reducing techniques that really help me and can help you too.
By: Sarina D. (’19)
Everyday after school, as we head to our sports practices or instrument lessons or SAT prep classes, the cast of Radium Girls goes back in time 100 years to factory life in Illinois. Featuring Crystal Students from all four grades, Radium Girls is a dynamic ensemble piece that tells the stories of female laborers in early 20th century Illinois who contracted radiation poison from painting watch dials with self-luminous paint, despite being told that the paint was harmless. The play’s director, Mr. Waters, explained that he chose the play because it had a large cast and would pose a challenge to the actors, who have taken on comedies in the last few Crystal productions. Radium Girls is dark and full of challenges, but ultimately delivers a message of hope.
By: Ella R. (’19)
At Crystal, we are lucky to receive an excellent education while still being encouraged to try a huge variety of activities. Sometimes, though, it can be rather challenging to find a balance between everything we do. Searching for some words of wisdom from experienced Gryphons, I spoke with juniors Kevin C., Natalie H. and Tara A., and seniors Jennifer A., Eliana F., and Nicky M. to hear about their experiences at Crystal and what they’ve learned over the years. Keep reading to find out what they have to say about sports, talking to teachers, and the importance of taking time to relax.
By: Zach S. (’20)
This is a brief interview of the co-president of Head In The Game. The organization holds sporting events to raise money and awareness for concussions and concussion research. Keep reading for a quick look into the world of Head In The Game from the perspective of sophomore Kirk Love!
The Gryphon Gazette 