Paw Print

The Paw Print

Winter 2010 OAK HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

TAKE A BITE OUT OF THIS

What kills faster, lighting up a cigarette or sending a malicious electronic message to thousands of people? This question has become a frequent matter of debate on cable television, newspapers, and in classrooms. Among high school students surveyed at Oak Hills High School, 60% considered a malicious text message more dangerous than smoking!

Isolation, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, were once the greatest threats facing teens. The danger is now as close as a teen’s pocket or purse; it is their cell phone. Parents and school counselors are finding an increasing number of adolescents plagued by cyber bullying.

Among recent incidents, Tyler Clementi and Hope Witsell committed suicide on account of cyber or online bullying. Hope, 13, was the victim of cyber bullying when pictures she had sent to her boyfriend went viral. Tyler, 18, committed suicide after his roommate allegedly broadcast a Web video of him having a sexual encounter. According to cnn.com, this “constant exposure to technology and the web amplifies opportunities for children to bully each other online.”

The statistics are alarming, one in five youths between ages 10-15 claimed to have been a victim of cyber bullying, according to the Cyber Bullying Research Center. What should you do if you are the victim of this crime? First, realize you do not have to face this alone, tell a parent, school counselor, or an authority figure immediately. Second, there are laws written to protect you. Cyber bullying is a crime, and you have legal rights to end the abuse. Finally, the best way to avoid becoming a victim, is to not engage in sexting, distributing embarrassing messages or photographs.

WINTER 2010

Oscar Wilde said that the public “has an appetite to know everything that there is to know

except what is worth knowing, which is why journalism exists.” We hope that this first issue of The Paw Print for the 2010-2011 school year nourishes the appetite of the curious, informs the ignorant, and leaves our reading public craving for more issues. One thing is certain; the Paw Print will leave some impression.

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August 9, 2010, Oak Hills High School held its Second Annual 4.0 Dinner to honor all students who managed to achieve a 4.0 GPA during the 2009-2010 school year. The outstanding students along with their guests met in the Dog PAC for a night filled with celebration and entertainment. Students were welcomed into a beautifully decorated dining area where they were embraced by a positive atmosphere filled with appreciation for all of their hard work.

The night consisted of a meal catered by Casa Delicias that delighted all of the guests. Attendees not only enjoyed the fine food but also heard live entertainment from some of the most talented students at Oak Hills High School. The musical acts ranged from inspirational songs to high beat rhythmic songs . When

the entertainment ended on this high note everyone cheered and applauded the performers. After the dinner and performances, certificates and a paw pin were awarded according to grade level to each student. Smiles filled the room as students were handed a token of appreciation for all of their hard work put into academics.

The 4.0 Dinner also consisted of a pr ize raffle, the winner receiving an Oak Hills sweater. The night came to an end with a motivational speech from Mr. Clark, the activities director, encouraging the students to keep up all the good work. The honorees and guests departed and took with them the memory of a Bulldog lifetime.

Honoring the Honor Students

If you work hard, you are often presented with opportunities to play hard. Being a renaissance cardholder means that you have achieved good grades and avoided getting a D or F in any classes for the quarter. With this magical card, you receive a $2 discount on your next dance ticket, get out of class for a special Renaissance Show for you, and even receive free food from selected places displayed on the back of your card. The higher your grades, the more benefits you receive, so keep up the good work Bulldogs!

This year’s Renaissance Holiday Show was a refreshing break from the reviews for finals. With outstanding performances from the Bulldog Brigade, Bulldog Show Choir, ASB and Pageantry, students were entertained, and were brought to their inner Holiday spirit.

Written by: Rozlyn Ocab

Over Achievers’ become Receivers

Words From Your Editors

Bulldogs!

This past semester has flown by, and it’ll just keep going by faster! The Journalism class has worked hard to report on the exciting events that the school puts together for entertainment, information and sometimes relaxation. Whether it’s on stage, on the field, or in front of your own classmates, Bulldogs have outshined in every aspect, always coming out on top.

I hope you enjoy our first issue for the school year and our Journalism team looks forward to writing about your future success.

By: Amanda Bailey, Vanessa Franco, Rozlyn Ocab, Nicole Olney and Taylor Small

Written by: Vanessa Franco On-Site Reporter: Samantha Salazar

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Hippie Day: Students hipped out the school by wearing tie-dye shirts and peace signs

On September 24, the first club fair of the 2010-2011 school year occurred at Oak Hills High School. Club fair is a school-wide fundraising event in which lunch is 70 minutes, and most, if not all, of the clubs on campus sell food or other profitable items. The fun didn’t end with just a few tasty snacks; there were bungee bouncers, rock climbing walls, and all sorts of clever games.

Written by: Nicole Olney

On-site Reporter: Kimberly Flores

On the night of October 2nd, darkness fell upon Oak Hills High School. The dark alley side entrance and caged dance floor transformed the Bulldog PAC into Gotham City. The strobe lights created an ideal backdrop for a battleground; for dancers, not villains. Gothic night was ideal for the participants in the dance off. The comic book world of Batman was further brought to reality as those who were tough enough received spray on tattoos, while others were caricatured. As the night came to an end, many people sought the aid of Officer Holland and caught the perfect get away ride on his personal bat mobile (gold cart), and drove off into the dark.

Written by: Taylor Small

On-site Reporter: Maira Martinez

Neon Day: Bulldogs shine brighter than the sun as they showed off their neon colors

Workout Day: Fashion was not an issue when everyone showed off his or her workout apparel

Dynamic Duo Day: When darkness falls, dynamic duos appeared to save the day

Red Day: Bulldogs showed off their school spirit by wearing Red!

ACTIVITIES

Just Food and Games

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⇒ All 4-year college applications should have been submitted November 30th! Hurry to submit your ACT/SAT scores and your transcripts!

⇒ Order your Cap/Gown ASAP, either online, through mail, or in the next Herff Jones visits. If you do not purchase your cap and gown, there is a possibility you will end up paying more, or you will NOT walk!

⇒ You are able to start filling out your FAFSA January 1, 2011.

⇒ Starting January, there will be FAFSA workshops every Wednesday at 5:00 pm, 6:00 pm and 7:00pm, for parents and students. Make your Appointments NOW!

⇒ Do NOT pay for the FAFSA, FAFSA means FREE APPLICATION for Student Aid.

⇒ Graduation will be located at the San Manuel Amphitheatre; extra tickets

After four long grueling years, you have finally crossed the academic finish line with a high school diploma in hand … but now what?

Option 1 (Work)

“I am so finished with school.”

Before you rush off into the labor force, i.e. work, you will need to make a few decisions. What type of work do you think you would most enjoy? Remember, forty hours or more of sitting, standing, assembling, serving, or lifting, might sound like a nice break from the tedium of note writing and test taking, but unless you choose the job best suited for you, those forty-plus hours a week will soon make you day-dream of pencils, papers, and high school teachers with endless patience. in advance of your post high school pilgrimage into the work force, make a list of the jobs you find most compatible with your interest, experience, and personality. Next, make a resume that is appropriate for the type of work you will be applying for. What qualifications are needed and how do you uniquely fill the need that your potential employer is looking for? Education? Experience? Many employers will also want to know the days, nights, and hours (include weekends) that you are available to work. Do you have job appropriate references such as teachers and former employers who can provide your potential employer with a recommendation as to your character and abilities? A reference letter or two would add strength to your resume; have a few different types of letters available and ready for the positions that you are applying for. Naturally, do not forget to include your own contact information!

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Consider the following statistics:

• Unemployment percentage of those without a high school education: 15%

• Unemployment percentage of those with a high school education: 9.4%-11.2%

• Unemployment percentage of those with some college or an Associates Degree: 8%-9%.

• Unemployment percentage of those who are college graduates: 4.4%-5%

Notice that with each level of advanced education the chances of finding or keeping a job are statistically higher! If for no other reason than employment, a college education does pay off! Are there other reasons to consider a college degree? Absolutely and it is the primary reason for education, to advance your understanding of yourself, the world you live in, and how to improve yourself and the world around you. Choosing the best college is an investment in you and society, and what is a more lasting and safe investment than one in yourself? For more information on what to do after high school and how to move forward with that decision, visit our school career center and talk to your counselors as soon as you can. It is not too early in 9th grade to begin this process and work towards your goals. Oak Hills High School has a qualified staff here to assist you and help you make a success of your life.

Written By: Advanced Journalism Students

The Interview

Dress professionally. Even if you are applying for a job that does not require profession attire, it is in your best interest to make a good first impression, “you can only make a first impression once.” Be on time (a few minutes early). When you are asked a question, listen carefully, answer specifically, and do not ramble. Promote yourself and your abilities without sounding arrogant, a know-it-all, or too good for the job. Know as much as you can about the job, the company, and the job responsibilities involved so that you can show that you are already a “team player” and will be an asset to the company.

Option 2 (College)

“Goodbye Mom and Dad, I’m off to college.”

Why choose college?

The most important question to consider, especially in today’s climate with record unemployment is “does a college degree give me a greater chance at finding a job?” The answer is YES. It should be pointed out that a college degree does not guarantee a job but a quick look at recent statistics given by the US Department of Labor reveals that a college degree does give you an advantage over those who are without a 4 year college degree.

*These are not all of the Seniors who have applied and been accepted, just those who received Early Admission. UC’s do not send out letters until after January. If you have been accepted please let Mrs. Harguess or Diane Rodriguez know!

Amanda Bailey: Northern Arizona University Crystal Collins: Cal State Dominguez Hills Brett Croft: Master’s College Emily Cutillo: Brigham Young University Adolfo Espinoza: Cal State Dominguez Hills Sarah Lindley: Cal State Fullerton Abel Mejia: Fresno State Lauren Miner: Humboldt State

Presley Norton: Northern Arizona University Rozlyn Ocab: Azusa Pacific University, Menlo College Sarah Olson: Cal State Fullerton Angelica Perea: Cal State Fullerton Andrea Poole: Northern Arizona University Taylor Small: Northern Arizona University, University of the Pacific Erick West: Master’s College

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Athletics

This year’s fall sports have not only carried the bar over from the 2009-2010 school year, but also completely raised it over the top! The Bulldogs Sports program proudly jo ined the Mojave River League, along with Hesperia High School, Sultana High School, Apple Valley High School and Serrano High School. No Scorpion, Sultan, Sundevil or Diamondback was any match for the Bulldog . Volleyball placed first in the Mojave River League, which was quickly followed by our Football team placing 2nd and playing the first round of playoffs against Elsinore High School. Both Tennis and Cross Country both had rough seasons, but pursued through to League Finals!

First Team Offense:

Backs: Jeremiah Armstead Linemen: Anthony Flores; Lorenzo Lao

Second Team Offense:

Backs: Marshaun Coprich Receivers: Garrett Reece-Scott Tight End: Chris Lopez

First Team Defense:

Linemen: Jason Curtis Linebackers: Antwaun Dawson; Aaron Woodard Backs: Daniel Davis; Garrett Reece-Scott

Second Team Defense:

Linemen: Ben Havro; Anthony Walker-Jimenez

First Team Special Teams:

Utility: Marshaun Coprich

Second Team Special Teams:

Kicker: Brett Croft

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Throw Me A Bone

After practicing these tips, take your speech with you to your presentation. When you get up in front of class, pick a spot on the wall. Don’t concentrate on the other people in the classroom, but if you must, do the common thing and picture your audience in their underwear. If you are permitted index cards use them! Write down the main points. Do not write your entire speech and try to fit it onto one note card, this eliminates being “comfortable” with the class and eye contact. Keep key words/notes to help you lead to another topic. To overcome the fear of speaking, make sure you are well prepared, have your sources ready; don’t pay attention to your audience, and practice, practice, PRACTICE! Written By: Rozlyn Ocab Research done by: Amber Anthony

Having trouble with public speaking? There are several methods to get over the fear, become comfortable, and find it fun to speak in front of a class or crowd. According to www.school-for-champions.com/grades/speaking.htm, tips to overcome this fear are to: know the subject, support your arguments, realize that the audience isn’t so special, and PRACTICE! When writing your speech, make sure to gather as much research as you can : about the subject. Be prepared for possible name calling by other classmates because they will be jealous of your brains. Make sure to write out your speech and practicing delivering it. Some ways to practice your speech are: 1. Practice in front of people you are comfortable with; 2. Talk to a mirror/wall; 3. Record yourself and listen to it to determine whether you are getting your facts straight.

Find your backpack or folder overflowing with books and papers? Do you spend more than ten minutes searching for that assignment that you “did” and swear it’s in your backpack…somewhere? What you need are… ORGANISTAS! As the organistas are far too expensive, read these handy tips and you wil l be on your way to an A.

Folder users: First of all, you should buy a backpack, or something that will hold your belongings. When buying your folder make sure that it is not so thin that you are emptying it out daily. Instead choose one thick enough to keep all of your papers accessible at all times. Make sure to keep dividers in your folder, one for each class subject, and even an extra one to keep your miscellaneous stuff. If you are given a paper without holes, hole punch them immediately and put them where they belong so you don’t end up tearing the sleeve on your folder. Last if you are the type to carry your pencils, pens, etc. in your pocket, a pencil holder for folders is recommended.

Backpack users: If you have a backpack, a folder, notebooks, and even dividers for your folder, yet your papers are just everywhere, you just need to organize! You’ve got all the tools; you just need to clean up the mess with time and hard work. If you still have loose papers, check to see if you really need them; if it is safe to throw them away. If you refuse to throw away any papers out of paranoia that you might need it as soon as it hits the wastebasket, invest in some manila folders or a filer. If you invest in a filer, do the same as you would with your folder and clearly label each tab for every subject. As for all the other trash that you seem to find at the bottom of your backpack, simply throw it away… NOW!

Written By: Vanessa Franco and Rozlyn Ocab

The Paw Print

Winter 2010