Mind The Language:

Although some jokes might be considered funnier than others, a joke can become less fun when a person gets into trouble. 

     Freshman Magnus Keen encourages people to think wisely about what they’re about to say, even if it’s meant to be taken lightly. 

     “…It could be a complete joke,” Keen said. “But [your words] could really be taken out of context and [that] could get you in trouble.” 

     Meanwhile, counselor McKenna Fee says that people, students in particular, should be more mindful of their language (such as profanity) and keep “treating others with kindness…and being respectful in the classroom.”  

Clip the Cliques:

While it’s comfortable to have an old friend group, staying in a clique can also discourage people who want to make friends or find a welcoming community.

     “I feel like it’d be really cool if a lot more West Albany students could come together and include more people that they wouldn’t usually include in their friend groups,” senior Legend McMullen said after she shared her own struggles with preestablished cliques. 

     Rather than ditching their tight-knit friend group, students can create and strengthen more friendships by keeping in touch with their old friends while welcoming new ones into their lives. 

Empowered by Educators:

Despite the difficulties experienced by West Albany High School teachers when it comes to managing a class’s lack of motivation or a difficult student, Keen believes that teachers at WAHS often continue to push their students to succeed in a way that goes beyond their paycheck. 

     “I know it’s their job,” Keen said “But…some students aren’t exactly the nicest, and the teachers are still willing to help them because they don’t want the kids to fail.” 

    So, while a teacher may encounter a student with a difficult temperament, Keen

said, “we should be more grateful for our teachers.”