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The following people have purchased a yearbook as of 9/16/09.(If your name isn’t here, you haven’t. No, seriously, we are sure of it).

Yaseen Abdel-Razeq, Christopher Abdullah, Nicole Abdullah, Benjamin D. Adams, Ashley Advena, Melanie Aguilar-Rojas, Tara Ahmadi, Kamille Aiello, Charles Allen, Marilyn Allen, Michael Allen, Amina Almusawi, Albert Foster Anderson, Michael Anderson, Bethany Apelquist, Nicholas Apelquist, Charles Aquilina, Ryan Arbesfeld, Douglas Arendt, Sarah Arthur, Adrienne Atkinson, Alexander Atkinson, Amanda Ault, Samuel Ault, Christina Back, Jennifer Bailey, Lauren Banker, Danielle Barlow, Joseph Bartosic, Bailey Bauman, Bridget Bauman, Evan Bazzini, Ilana Bean, Caroline Beard, Kevin Behnaz, Alex Belden, Scott Benson, Hannah Berlin, Kathryn Berlin, Amanda Bernstein, Alexandra Berube, Caroline Beury, Kevin Bezick, Ria Bhatia, Natalie Bien, Rachel Bingham, Joseph Blair, Joseph Blair, Lindsay Blassic, Andrew Boddie, Benjamin Braudaway, Eliza-beth Brobeck, Daniel Brodie, Kathryn V. Brodie, Mary Brown, Roslyn Brown, Daniel Burdin, Brian Burns, Brian Burns, Stephen Bushey, Kristen A. Callahan, Maria Canales, Daniel Carlen, Kristi Carrigan, Brandon Chandler, Matthew Chandler, Jennifer Cheng, Joanne Y. Chiao, Jacqueline Chiu, Joseph Choi, Daniel Chong, Michelle Chong, Kathryn Clark, Anna Christina Clements, Nikki Clemons, Jack Cochran, Joseph Cochran, Emily Cockrill, Andrew Cocrane, Lucia Colombi, Carl Condas, Spencer Conley, Bryan K. Cortes, Kevin G. Cortes, Emily Cosgrove, NaJee Cox, Katie Croote, Janine Crossman, Beheen Dabestani, William M. Dale, Jessica Daley, Matthew Daley, Brittany Thanh Vi Dao, Emily Davis, Emily Dawson, Jordan Dawson, Gregory DeRosa, Peter DeTeresa, Michael Dettmar, Matt Dicker, Katie Diemer, Sofia Alexandra Diez, Elena Dimov, Charles Dixon, Erica Dobbs, Zachary Dobbs, Gregory Doerr, Rachel Doerr, Ashley Doran, Briana Doran, Michelle Doran, James Douglas, Richard Douglas, Victoria Doxey, Matthew Dunwoody, Chelsea D. Durant, Christopher C.D. Durant, Krista Durham, Griffin Duy, Deanna Easley, Patrick Eberhart, David Eisenbraun, Yara El Mowafy, Bianca Ely, Allie Enghauser, Bailey Epperson, Andrew Falter, Jamie Falter, Madeline Farmer, Alex-ander Feldhausen, Laura Fiddler, Anastasia I. Fisher, Bryan Flanagan, Katarina Fleckenstein, Sarah Flower, Colin Foley, Jennifer Forsythe, Michael Frank, Hayley A. French, Meredith Freund, Christopher Fu, Robert L. Fuchs, William J. Fuchs, Darika Jenelle Fuhrmann, Patrick Fulghum, Erin Gallagher, Renee Garces, Nina Garfield, Megan Geshan, Gregory Gettings, Karli Gillespie, Kelsey Glomb, Lauren Goetz, Eric Goins, Raymond Goins, Zachary Goldberger, Timothy Goodiel, Stephanie Gordillo, Jillian Goulding, Patrick Goulding, Ryan Granato, Samuel Greenlief, Jake Green-spun, Laura Grissen, Jon Grove, Angela Guertin, David Gupta, Taiana Hale, Kimberley Hall, Jessica Ham, Stacy Ham, Laura Hamlin, Cristina Harrell, Andrew Harrington, Steven Harris, Maxwell Harrison, Luke Hart, Kimberly Heffernan, Meghan Hekl, Sierra Hemmig, Banoo Hermosilla, Mitchell Hernandez, Allison Herring, Chris Herring, Haley Herrinton, Trevor Herrinton, Allison Hicks, Clarke Hildreth, Clarke Hildreth, Samuel Himes, Edward Hintermeister, Andrew Hippe, Jacob Hirsch, Preston Hite, Samantha Hodges , Walter Hodges III, Keleigh Hohmann, Shannon Holcombe, Donnie Holstrom, Alexander Hsu, Joyce Huang, Kyle Hughes, Nicholas Hull, Catherine Humphries, Audrey Ingalls, Kyle Itkin, Jessica Jaeger, Stephen James, Nicole Jenkins, Tesla Jensen, Christine N. Johnson, Connor Johnson, Kevin P. Johnson, Lauren M. Johnson, Rachel Johnson, Alyson Jones, Ethan Jones, Sheen Justin, Gi Eun Kang, Min Kang, Melissa Katz, Shantanu Kelkar, Andrew Kelly, Austin Kendall, Arin Keryeski, Michelle Kidwell, Edward Kim, Esther Y. Kim, Rachel Kim, Andy Kim, Spencer King, Jessica Klaber, Matthew Knoche, Ashley Koch, Kevin Koch, Lee Kordella, Wade Kostkan, Alexandra Kozero, James Krieger, Emily Krisanda, Zachary Krukowski, Andrew Kubiak, Matt Kutyna, Anne Kwan, Ryan Ladson, Andrew Lankenau, Michael Lankenau, Graham Lawyer, Madison Lawyer, Stephanie LeBolt, Arnold Lee, Andrew Leonard, Allison Levy, Alice Li, Richard Li, Nicholas L’Italien, Megan Livingston, Carson Loftus, Riley Loftus, Jennifer Lonnquest, Samuel Lucas, Julianne Lynberg, Mackenzie Lynn, Giuliana Macaluso, Laura Macaluso, Catherine Mahoney, Claire Mahoney, Marisa Mahony, Alim Majied, Catherine Manner, Elizabeth Manner, Jennifer Markin, Emily Markle, Kalli Martin, Shannon Mason, Bailey Maurer, Maxwell Maurer, Gabriella Mazziotti, Lauren McDonough, Emilia McGinn, Samuel McKinley, Geoffrey C.M. McLaughlin, Mark McNamee, Michael McNamee, Meagan McRoberts, Katelyn Mecca, Max Meshanko, Analisa Meyers, Kristina Michallas, Ben Mills, Emily Mills, Zoe Mitchell, Christopher Moeller, Tyler Montanino, Markus Anthony Moore, Ivan Morfit, Alison Morgan, Christine Morgan, Misa Mori, Geoff Moskowitz, Matt Moskowitz, Tamoor Mufti, Cody Nealon, Hannah Nelson, Timothy Nguyen, Kyra Nyman, James C. O’Dell, Leslie Olivos, Elizabeth Orantes, Caitlin O’Sullivan, Brett Padula, Jasmine Palmer, Carly Palmucci, Neal Pania, Robin Parrish, Gregory Pavek, Jesse Peckinpaugh, Alexander Peirce, Rachel Pelfrey, Reid Perkins, Alex Perry, Bradley Phillips, Brian Phillips, Courtney Pinkard, Diana Pournaras, Lauren Quast, Lyndy Quast, Kyle Quinn, William Quinn, Mitchell Peyton Radcliffe, Roshan Radhakrishnan, Shannon Ragan, Lloyd Ramey, Stephen Readyoff, Brooke Ream, Megan Rearden, Vipin Reddy, Stephen Reiter, David Rendle, Erin Reynolds, Allison Robbins, Charlotte Robbins, Steven Robbins, Trenton Robbins, Helen Roberts, Chris Rodgers, Kelley Rodgers, Aly Rodriguez, Daniel Roepe, James Roepe, Austin Roland, Angela Roller, Elizabeth Roller, Amanda Rosenblatt, Lauren Rosenblatt, Courtney Roth, Soren Rucker, Andre Sameni, Monica Sameni, Nisha Sandhir, Stephen Sanow, Sarah Sapone , Morgan Saxer, Anthony Schiavo, Marybeth Schmitt, Sean Schnitzer, Christine Schram, Morgan Schuler, Ashley Scifo, Andrew Seastream, Sophia Sellars, Shayda Shahbazi, Gregory Shallcross, Michael Shallcross, Kevin Shavalay, Gianna Sheffield, Marisa Sheffield, Steele Shemeld, Ansley Sherwin, Brian Shumway, Angela Sickels, Kate Signore, Sarah Signore, Jeremy Sitko, Gabby Slaughter, Rebecca Slaughter, Amelia Smith, Arianna Smith, Dustin Smith, Jessica Smith, Lane Smith, Nathan Smith, Sarah Smith, Taylor Smith, Zach Smith, Stephanie Snider, Marilyn Soens, Yuri Soens, Taylor A. Soldner, Alex Sommese, Daniel Song, Joy Song, David A. South, David H. Springer, Sarah St Louis, Antonia Isabella Stabile, Spencer Stabile, Bradley Stebner, Matthew Steele, Samuel Stein, Amanda Elaine Steinhagen, Shelby Stelfox, Steven Stelfox, Mary Stoney, Alexandra Straton, Nicholas Strauss, Samuel Strauss, Alina Suyama, Kayla Sweeney, Kivan Taghavi, Philip Tam, Megan Taylor, Michael Terminello, Camden Thacker, Cameron Thomas, Karalee Thomas, Evan Thompson, Brooke Townshend, Christine Tran, Michael V. Tran, Lucas Traunero, Thomas Tribble, Jordan Trostle, Daniel J. Trottier, Vincent Tsai, Jay Tucker, William Tyler, Nina Wagner, Kristyn Walecka, Shannon Wang, Nicholas Ward, Dustin Ward-Dahl, Spencer John Waters, Kelsey Weathers, Alexan-dra Weaver, Benjamin Webster, Walker Webster, Emma Weil, Elise Werner, Katharine Werner, Luke Willis, Jennifer Wolf, Joshua Wolf, Michelle Wolf, Peter Wolf, Alan Womble, Matthew Woodhouse, Lynn Wormeli, Ryan Wormeli, Mengtian Xie, Bo Yang, Emily Yaremchuk, Dorothy Yen, Angela Yoo, Paige York, Paul Yost, Alex Yuk, Stephanie Zadora, Omar Zaidan, Charles Zappala, Alan Zhao, Yekaterina Zhukova, Saman Zomorodi

It’s not too late!Sales end Oct. 2

See Room 196 to orderor visit www.oaktonmedia.net

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outlook news

out lookSept. 22,2009

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05New AP InitiativeThe administration has announced a new plan to have all college bound students enrolled in an AP or Honors class.

09Welcome LettersLetters written by SGA President, Jay Tucker, and Principal John Banbury on expectations for the new school year.

17Down for DaoJunior Brittany Dao throws a sweet sixteen party to benefit the charitable organization created for her sister.

19 Meet FabioAn introduction to Fabio Zuluaga, the new assistant superintendent of Cluster VIII schools.

30 Fall SportsThis season’s stand-out athletes discuss their per-sonal and team goals for the upcoming months on the field.

28 Outback The Outback Bowl is much more than just a football game. A look at all of the activities surrounding the Madison/

Oakton rivals.

20 Summer 09A scrapbook of some of the best mo-ments of everyone’s favorite season.

25

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sept. 22, 2009

outlook news

From the Editors’ Desk

As you can probably tell, the Outlook has be come smaller this year.But this time, the

paper is significantly smaller, and the paper type has changed. Now, more than three people can open and read the paper comfortably at the lunch table. Now, you can hide an issue in a folder or a binder and continue to read it during class. Now, the Out-look’s a magazine, and along with becoming a magazine, we’ve adopted a more modern, people-focused ap-proach to out writing and designing. You are the center of our attention, and we want you never to lose that spotlight.

What we mean by you being the focus is that the Outlook staff is looking to find stories that revolve around individuals and what they have going on rather than what’s just generally happening. We want to get to know you, and then tell people about how great you are. Because, the truth is, you probably already know whether the football team won or lost the game last Friday night, but did you know about the bag pipe player that was supposedly there? We didn’t think so. And just for that reason, we’re going to find out about

him and then let you know what’s up.

Other than giving you all the attention you crave, we’ve shifted towards a more design-oriented style. We want the pictures that our busy photographers take to draw you in. We want the things you see on a page to make you hold your gaze one second longer. We want you to pay attention to the paper like we are paying attention to you.

We also want you to pay attention by commenting on how an article makes you feel; or better yet, write a guest column yourself. We know that the Outlook staff doesn’t have the only opinionated students in the school, and for this reason, we en-courage you to check us out online at www.oaktonoutlook.com, and let us know what you think. Put plainly, we want to hear it all: the good, the bad and the ugly. Love us or hate us, we’d rather have you say something about what we’re doing than nothing at all.

Besides asking you to voice your opinion, we also want to wish you luck for the 2009-2010 school year. Go cougars!

Outlook Staff

Business ManagersSarah CrainPhilip Tam

Editors in ChiefErica WohllebenAlex Straton

News EditorsMichelle ChuElise Werner

Opinions EditorZoe Mitchell

Community EditorsTesla JensenKatie Smith

Design EditorSarah Kashanian

Sports Editors

Daniel Chait

Copy EditorVipin Reddy

Photo Editor

Daphne MartschenkoAlex Buscemi

Online EditorKoorosh Massoudi

In-Depth EditorKirin Gupta

From,

Alex StratonCo-Editor in Chief

Erica WohllebenCo-Editor in Chief

Ads

Lisa BaumgartnerAlex BeldenOwen ChesserNikki ClemonsSpencer ConleyConner DickCharlotte DobryDrew HarringtonMorgan HarwoodKyle HughesMatt JohnsonCallum KeltonJackson LizardoAllen LuethkeJordan Nieusma

Staff

Sarah CrainPhilip Tam

The Outlook is an open forum for student expression. Unsigned editorials reflect the collective opinion of the Outlook staff. Signed editorials represent the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Outlook or Oakton High School. Reader opinions are important to the Outlook and contributions are welcome. Make your voice heard by sending us a line about what’s on your mind. Letters to the editor may be may be sent via email to editors@oaktonoutlook.com or dropped off in Chad Rummel’s box in the main office or in room 196. The Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and content provided the meaning remains unchanged.

AdviserChad Rummel

Christopher PapasJulia PicciottoPasquale PreziosoSonya PriceShannon RaganAndrew ReedShayda ShahbaziBecky SingermanRachel StanleyMatt SteeleNick WardMatt WoodhouseDorothy YenMichelle Oh

Editorial Policy

OMG

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New teachers, new grading scale, new courses, and now, a new program encouraging students to engage in

more challenging courses. Starting this school year, administrators will be pushing for students to take at least one Advanced Placement (AP) class during the course of their high school careers. “I think that we, as a community, should really set a goal to have all of our students who plan on going on to a post-secondary educa-tion take an AP or honors class of their choice,” said Principal John Banbury. “I spent some time look-ing at [how schools are ranked] and came to the realization that...the most important aspect of pro-grams such as these are to open students to challeng-ing courses that prepare students for college.” Large amounts of effort and devotion are being spent encouraging stu-dents to take AP courses during their high school careers - a task that faces many obstacles. “I do think this is a realistic goal, but it’s going to take a lot of work to get there,” Ban-bury said. “The goal would be to prepare students and get them to take at least one AP in their four years.”

“Around 95% of our students go on to post secondary educations, so sooner or later they’er going to have to face challenges like

APs. I see this program as an opportunity for them to experience the rigors of a higher level of learning.” Administrators have deemed AP classes as crucial to the academic experience of students. “There are some schools nationwide that have already begun programs similar to this,” he said. “We are one of the premiere schools in the nation, so I think that we

should be doing what other premiere schools are doing as well. However, the reason that really pushed me over the edge is the change in the grading scale. Now that APs are worth 1 point and honors are .5 points on the weighted scale, kids can focus less on their GPA’s and focus more on their actual learning.” Although the administra-tion strongly advocates this course of action, students have mixed feelings about the program. “I have [contrasting opinions] about [the new

program],” said junior Flora Lee. “On the one hand, it’s great that we’re challeng-ing students and bringing them to their full potential, but at the same time, I don’t think it should be applied to all students. Some people are just unable to manage AP classes because it conflicts with their other extra-curricular activities or because the course is too challenging.” -by michelle chu and jordan nieusma

In support of the the initiative to expand enrollment in AP and Honors courses, Jay Mathews

spoke to the teaching staff at the end of summer. Mathews, Washing-ton Post educative reporter, created a Challenge Index ranking system for high schools that is annually featured in the Washington Post and Newsweek annually.

The Challenge Index is largely based on the availability of AP and IB courses. He weighs in on his thoughts about Banbury’s initiative:

“I think it’s a good idea. First off, every student thinking of going to college, needs a taste of college trauma before they get there. They need to get a three hour exam and a course that’s taught at a high level, with more emphasis on writ-ing and analysis. That’s what AP does.

“So it seems to me that its in everybody’s best interest to have a situation where everybody gets a taste of that before they go on to college And in a school like this, almost everybody’s going to college so it should be an AP course for everybody.”

-by erica wohlleben

Advanced Placement orAP:Academic Prerequisite?

“I think it’ll be better for kids who plan to go to col-lege since APs help prepare you for the real world.”

Catherine Bahng, 11

How do you feel about encouraging all students to take an AP course?

“I think everyone takes one anyway, otherwise you won’t get into a very good college.”

Gabriela Mazziotti, 11

“It’s a good idea. You learn more about a special subject and have more interest in it.”

Drew Cocrane, 12

“I plan to take APs and I take honors now, so I feel it’s a good idea.”

Lucas Wratschko, 9

“It’s great students are en-couraged to challenge them-selves, but if they struggle they shouldn’t be forced to.”

Tamera Lanham, 9

“For the kids who are chal-lenged in regular courses, taking an AP is too much.”

Garrett Allen, 10

outlook news

Education Expert Weighs In

Banbury’s New Initiative

-All students will be encouraged to take at least one AP class during their four years in high school.-Teachers, parents and faculty work with students to make this possible.-Several schools nation-wide have already institut-ed programs similar to this.

Jay Mathews

Banbury plans to expand Oakton’s AP and honors class enrollment

06

sept. 22 2009

outlook news

With flu season just around the corner, Fairfax County has

been preparing for the possible outbreak of the H1N1 virus. Information regarding this vi-rus and the county’s response has been made accessible to the community through the internet, as well as through town hall meetings. In one such meeting that occurred Sept. 11, the Health Director of the Fairfax County Health Department, Gloria Addo-Ayensu, spoke to a room of concerned residents regarding H1N1; a strain of influenza that made its first appearance last spring. In her presentation, she informed the attendees that the cur-rent severity of the virus has remained unchanged; however, it is uncertain whether or not it will get worse. Other points made were that this strain is

more contagious and will be circulating around with the regular flu.With the targeted age group being from the early teens into the thirties, schools will be more vulnerable to an outbreak. “My concerns will be the volume of people who may become sick,” said Tracey Paterno-Hardy, Health Depart-ment Nurse at Oakton. “Staff and students who have chronic illness will be hit very hard. My biggest concern is to keep everybody safe.” Due to these health con-cerns, good hygiene and stay-ing home when sick, as well as other precautions, will be stressed to students throughout the year. Teachers, also, are taking measures to ensure that they will be prepared for an outbreak. “I have been washing

my hands, frequently, using hand sanitizer and educating Oak-ton students on how to combat [H1N1],” said Chris Fowler, Social Studies Teacher. Along with this, the school has devised ways of alternative teaching in the event of school closure. “If there is a mas-sive number of sick [stu-dents and staff], they will shut down the schools temporarily and [teach-ers] will begin teaching through Blackboard,” said Catherine Browning, Social Studies Teacher.-by elise werner

This year, Fairfax County students begin school with Fairgrade, the new 10 point grading scale. With the changes, AP classes will now be weighted a full point on students’ GPA’s, and Honors classes will have a grade point weight of 0.5. Of the many changes, the grading system is one of the most impacting; it affects the entire student body, from entering freshmen to seniors who plan on applying to colleges. Chip Comstock, Assistant Principal, said he had “mixed

feelings” on the change. “I think we’ll maintain a good reputation. We’ll all have to adjust to it, and over time it won’t make a difference in the reputation of Fairfax County Public Schools,” Comstock said. Sean Greeney, Oceanography teacher, said he felt the Fairgrade scale was a beneficial adjustment. “I think it’s more accurate [than the old system] to a college grading scale. I wouldn’t say better, just accurate.” Greeney said.

“I feel that we will be more prepared for college with the old scale.” Amanda Fox, 10

“I believe that the school lost a bit of its edge; it’s lost a bit of that respect.”Danny Krulick 11

“It’s better because it helps the AP students that work harder.” Alex Brennan, 10

H1N1 Virus v. FCPSCDC guidelines

&

Civics seal availableSocial Studies Department Chair, Tor Strom, is helping support students to recieve the Civics Seal, a state-awarded seal given to students who complete 50 hours of community service and maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Is there a process?All students can get the requirements from their history teachers. Then they will fill out the paper work in government class at the begin-ning of their senior year, even if they haven’t completed the hours.

QA&

What hours are accepted?The hours are not just acquired in history projects, but through all subjects. It could be through a project in art class, or in band. Also, if someone joins the military prior to graduation, they will automatically graduate with the seal.

Q

AHow do students benefit?College admissions boards look at GPA, SAT scores and what work you have done in the community. Right now, students are underrep-resented, especially since the grading scale is the same as everywhere else. You guys need every edge you can get.

Q

A&

New grading scale in place

Routine cleaning•

Have good hand •hygiene and respiratory etiquette

Separate ill •students and staff

Stay home when •sick

Early treatment •of high risk students and staffConsideration of •selective school dimissal

-by julia piccioto and sonya price

Tor Strom

-by elise werner

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outlook news

Spirit ran through cougar fans during the annual Outback Bowl. Behind the excitement, not many realized the controversy in the wake of a simple T-shirt many wore to support their team.

“Cougar Coalition is the slogan that people were wearing on their spirit shirts,” said junior Sara Iacovino, who designed the T-shirts.

The shirts sold this year represented a slogan from two years ago, Cougar Coalition. The slogan caused confusion because many expected the shirts to be a part of the Cougar Clique fan group.

“We wanted to create a T-shirt for spirit purposes, not to compete with any other student club,” Iacovino said.

The new Cougar Coalition T-shirt design left Oakton with another group of fans. This unintentional mix up left rumors that the school hosts two clubs: Cougar Coalition and Cougar Clique.

“I thought we would look separated as a school if there were two different sections, so we decided to merge the two groups to be united as one fan section,” said senior Jay Tucker, president of Cougar Clique.

-by shayda shabazi

Spirit groups unite

The annual PTA Reflection Program is making its 40th appearance for the 2009-2010 year. Students must submit unique works of art revolving around the theme, “Beauty is…” Students may submit works of art in the form of literature, musical composition, photography, visual arts, dance choreography and film productions. Entries are due by Oct. 22, 2009 at the front office. -by michelle chu

As upperclassmen remain at home enjoying that extra hour of sleep, the class of 2013 have been coming to school on time on Collaboration Wednesdays for three consecutive weeks. Enacted this year, the freshman transitional program, headed by counselors Brooke Alexander and Sarah Fronckel as well as psychologist Rebecca Bernotas, was introduced to supply new freshmen with information that will aid them throughout their high school careers. The three leaders assist in making the program proceed with efficiency.-by michelle oh

Cougar News, previously aired every Fri-day, will now be expanded to four times a week. Tueday through Thursday will provide a five minute show, along with the typical Couar News Friday which will include the usual skits as well. -by sonya price and julia piccioto

National Merit finalists announced

Seniors Sheen Justin, Alice Li, Yuanzhe Li, Laura Lyons, Natalie Nysetvold, Katie Smith and Zachary Stair have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists for 2010. Finalists will receive one of three types of Merit Scholarships: National Merit $2,500 scholarships, corporate-sponsored scholarships, and college-sponsored scholarships. -by michelle chu

‘Reflections’ back for 40th year

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outlook voice

Straight From Their Desks...

Find your passion here

Welcome back, Oakton! I know everyone enjoyed their summer and is well rested and ready for the work

ahead. Seniors, this is your year. The class of 2010

is a great class and you have accomplished much in the last three years. Your hard work academically and in the countless activities in which you participate will manifest as your college acceptance letters begin to arrive later this school year.

Juniors, this is the difficult year. Stay focused on your studies and build the foundations for the academic years ahead of you.Waiting until your senior year to focus on your academics only ends in stress, and you will not end up showing colleges your real abilities.

Sophomores, you, too, need to stay focused on the task at hand, but I also want all of you to get involved in some aspects of the school community. Join a service or academic club, tutor a student or volunteer in any of the many community outreach programs.

Freshmen, I say this every year, but for the first time in your lives, everything counts. What you accomplish this year will remain part of your permanent record until college. If you wait to put in the work required to be successful, you will be behind and find it more difficult to catch up. Make your freshman year count and begin planning your academic track early.

I encourage all of you to develop a passion for a subject and to challenge yourself by taking at least one Honors or Advanced Placement course in that subject by the time you graduate.

Finally, I hope everyone in our Cougar family enjoys their time at Oakton. We offer a wide array of opportunities, and I’m sure there’s something that will meet your needs.

On behalf of the entire Oakton administration team, we wish you all a wonderful year. Together, we’ll make this a year to remember.

banburyprincipal

J ohn

Welcome Back,

Oakton

Get involved this year

As we start the new year, I’d like to provide you with some advice on how to ensure that this school year

will be the best ever.First off, get involved in clubs or sports

that interest you. There’s something for everyone at Oakton.

Attend school events and get spirited. You’ll enjoy the time with your friends and make new ones at the same time.

Make new friends but keep the old ones. These are the best times of your life right now, and you want to make them worth it.

Classes will be easier if you stay after and work with your teachers on homework. They want to see you succeed while at Oakton and even beyond as you head off to college.

This year can only be as good as you make it. Lastly, be proud to be a Cougar! You will always be a Cougar at heart and you can’t change that you went to Oakton High School. So enjoy your time here and make this year full of good memories.

Feel free to talk to me about any ideas or concerns. I’m proud to serve you as your SGA President.

tuckerSGA President

J ay

Daniel Chait

10

sept. 22, 2009

outlook voice

I walked into the familiar halls of Oakton and breathed a reluctant sigh. I acknowledged the stress of the upcoming year, and reflected for a moment

before proceeding to my first class of my last year as a high school student. Three years ago, I walked the same halls; only I breathed exasperated sighs of terror. The corridors of the school had many familiar sights. The ominous, burgundy lockers and slippery, pixilated floor had an oddly welcoming effect. The terrified looks of freshmen vividly reminded me of my own horrific first year. With every event I witnessed and experienced, I cultivated a growing emotion: one

of excitement, jubilance and fun. I was finally the alpha male-- the king of the jungle. I was finally a senior. Many things were different, but many things were still the same. There were incoming freshmen and many transfer students, for example, but the slightest glance at a familiar face would revitalize all of the previous encounters with that individual. The bell system had been replaced, but I

still saw mobs of students racing to get to class before the late bell rang. Even some of the teachers were new, but they were as diligent as last year. Even so, I felt disconnected to a certain extent; It was as if I were approaching the finish line to a race, and had stopped to look back at my peers. Was I jealous of the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who were all still running? Not really, because I had already learned my share of lessons. My time had already passed, and I was content. If one were to have shown me my present self three years ago, I would not have believed the sight I would see. The amount of spiritual, emotional, and intellectual transformation that occurred while at Oakton is quite breathtaking. While still a freshman, high school was terrifying to me. My elementary fears included: not being placed in the classes of my friends, wearing a pair of dorky shoes, and losing a game of “Mario Kart” to my peers. As I have grown out of my shoes, socks, and shirts, I have also grown to know the importance of studying. As I have overcome my fear of isolation from friends, I’ve learned that no matter who studies alongside you, education should not be taken for granted. While I may place last in any video game, I recognize that reaching for first place in life is of utmost importance. As I embark on my final lap of the race, I will not only put forth my best effort, but reflect on my previous experiences, lessons, and revelations here at Oakton High School.

kimsenior

dennis

Walking into my first period class late was a surprise. Even though I had left right after the warning bell (as my sister had

said I should), I still somehow managed to come to class late. As I walked to my seat with my eyes down, I made a mental note to always leave for class before the warning bell. With a quick glance around, I noticed there wasn’t even an attempt at the bright, cheery decorations that always adorned middle and elementary school rooms.

Second period was better, mainly because I was on time to this class, although admittedly it’s hard to be late to a class next door to your previous one. Mr. Harris taught the second half of my combination English/World Civ. class, and he immediately starting off with some natural humor, not the kind of forced jokes you felt you had to laugh at. The atmosphere was noticeably more relaxed, and he got us to work straight away. When the bell rang, I left the class with homework, something I had thought no teacher gave on the first day of school.

People clogged the hallways, and after waiting a couple of seconds for people to move out of the way, I decided to get aggressive. Pushing my way through the masses, I saw that others were shoving and getting shoved alike. No one took it personally if you jostled them, or at least I didn’t notice if they did.

I would equate the Journalism classroom to the state of Nevada; in the middle of nowhere. Off in some secluded hallway, the large, airy room sits, but luckily I have break time to make the journey, and actually arrive on time.

I went straight from Journalism to the cafeteria for lunch. Freshmen orientation had not prepared me for this, and as I looked around, the meaning of chaos had never been so clear. I found some of my friends after a frantic search and steered them away from the circle tables, which my sister said were reserved for upperclassmen. Unwritten laws were common.

Later, I easily followed the flow of traffic to the Gym and found no difference between Oakton and Rachel Carson’s first day of P.E.; sitting around in the bleachers, doing nothing. I passed the time by talking to the few friends I had in my set of bleachers and staring at the clock. The second hand ticked slowly, until eventually, it came to three minutes before class ended, and the bell rang. Pleasantly surprised, I got up with everyone else and tried to funnel out of the doors as quickly as possible.

The first day of school is a different experience for everyone,

but the most notable differences exist between

experienced seniors and naive freshmen

Welcome Back!

driscolfreshman

gabriella

Halls welcome returning seniors New experiences await freshmen

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Everyone is different. We all have different abilities, different skills, different interests and, more

specifically, different learning styles. Despite this fact, the administration is disregarding student’s differences, forcing them in academic conformity whether they are prepared to or not.

Recently, Oakton administration emphasized their upcoming goal for all students bound for secondary-level education to take an Advanced Placement or Honors course of their choice while enrolled at Oakton. AP and Honors classes at Oakton already have open-enrollment, and anyone motivated to take these courses is accepted. But pressuring students to

make the choice to take an AP or Honors class may not be in the student’s best

interest, as some students are not prepared or motivated to be successful in these courses.

Challenging students is extremely important; it allows students to explore what they are capable of, but no one can determine that students aren’t challenged in regular level classes.

The level of difficulty of a class is more-so determined by the teacher, the curriculum and the workload. Just because a class is recognized as “AP” or “Honors” does not necessarily increase its difficulty. As journalism students know, the workload and challenge found in Oakton’s journalism course easily matches the workload of Honors

and AP classes, but the program does not receive the similar AP or Honors recognition.

Some students, simply put, cannot handle AP classes. This doesn’t mean that they are not smart enough to understand the material within AP and Honors courses but that they are unable to handle the amount of work. Students enrolled in AP courses are in these classes to be challenged at the college level, something not all high schools students may feel is necessary for their education.

High school is a time to grow and mature and for students to begin to understand what they are capable of and how much they can achieve. Students should not feel pressured to rush into college courses too soon, especially because being unprepared could result in disaster. Extracurricular activities also add to the challenge of balancing AP and Honors courses, but these activities should not be undervalued, as they prove beneficial to students maturity.

Counselors and administrators should focus more on each student’s individual needs. If a counselor feels a student is able to take and succeed in an AP course, this student should be encouraged to enroll. However, another student may not have the same drive to succeed in these college level courses. Counselors should not feel inclined to pressure students towards AP and Honors courses if they will not be beneficial to the student’s future.

In the end, it comes down more to the student’s decisions about how much they wish to challenge themselves, not on how much the school deems they should be challenged.

Requiring APs creates unneeded

pressure

quotes

The Staff Editorial is the official opinion of

the Outlook

“My mom teaches at a Catholic high school and they weren’t allowed to

show it without permission from the parents. I wish that

I had been able to see it.”

“I thought it was good because he basically told us that we won’t get anywhere

without hard work. He inspired me to work hard

and make the best use of my education.”

“I think it’s good, but if he’s trying to promote education,

he shouldn’t have taken educational time.”

cougar

“I think [Oakton] should have shown it. People were talking about how he was spewing democratic ideas,

but I think he was just trying to motivate us.”

What did you think about President Barack Obama’s speech to students?

angela roller, soph.

zak goldberger, jr.

chris smith, sr.

kayla coots, fresh.

Owen Chesser

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The last thing students expect to see on late night comedy in the middle of summer is their

school. That is the experience Oakton’s viewers of Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report” had this summer. Colbert’s usual biting satire put a bright spotlight on Oakton. Yes, it was amusing to see ourselves on one of the funniest shows of our generation. Yes, it was a good, cheap laugh at our school’s expense. But it was also irresponsible.

The story of Oakton’s birth control issues had already been presented in several venerable news sources, such as the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal. These venues provide a place to open a public discussion on the topic of the county’s “zero tolerance” drug policy. They are also known for their respectable and reputable journalistic standards. “The Colbert Report” is not. It is a funny show which provides a lighter view of current news issues than the usual doom-and-gloom of the big networks. Yet it is not a place where a serious debate can be had. A serious debate is what is needed to confront “zero tolerance.” It may be inappropriate that the school system is blind to the differences between heroin and “the pill.” But to truly change the policy, it has to be done in the proper way. The Post and the Journal were good first steps, but this was a move in the wrong direction.

Moreover, the show put too heavy a focus on our school individually. “Zero tolerance” is not a policy of our own. It is a county wide policy which is meant to be enforced the same way at Chantilly, Robinson and Annandale as it is here. More attention needed to be place on the issue as a whole, in the county, the nation, and not just our school. Our administrators were simply doing what they are paid to do. For Colbert to focus solely on our school was inappropriate. It presented an inaccurate and simply wrong picture of our community. In short, it was embarrassing.

Ultimately, Oakton should not become the battleground for the “zero tolerance” debate. This is a discussion that needs to occur in the wider community. Let’s put the funny behind us and actually get down to business if we feel something needs to be changed with the regulation. In the meantime, we need to remember that just because “The Colbert Report” says something is the “truthiness,” doesn’t mean it’s right.

Recently, FCPS implemented a county-wide fee increase for all student parking spots. The price raise depended on the school, and at Oakton, fees increased by $50,

making the cost to part a whopping $200 dollars. The increase in the parking fee is a necessity to combat our

current budget crisis, and the $50 fee should not be a conflict for parents and students who can afford to drive to and from school. If it’s necessary for local public high schools to increase the parking fees, it will be a small contributor to fulfilling the regular classroom needs. If the fee increase will eventually help

to financially benefit students and schools, in the long run the extra hard-earned $50 per spot will be worth it.

The extra money being handed out per sport should be spent on items or programs that would benefit students, as they are the ones providing this extra boost in funding.

Students who can’t afford the price increase will always have the option of taking the school bus, which is free and provided for all students. This also discourages students

driving to and from school, which reduces the risk of accidents, as well as being better for the environment.

If a student or their parent can’t pay the extra fee, they can always work in order to acquire the extra money.

But, if a student can already afford the fuel and automobile to drive to school, the extra fifty dollars should not be too big of a deposit.

If we are all going to have to pay extra money for our parking spots, I feel we should be able to “decorate” them. It used to be a tradition at Oakton during the ‘glory’ years, for seniors to paint their parking spots, allowing them to express their identity, as well as uniting the senior class. It would be a great activity for students who have paid the extra money for these spots to share their artistic abilities with the school, and really make that parking spot their own. Students are making a compromise in paying the extra fee; I hope the faculty can compromise by allowing us to express ourselves.

As a student, I don’t mind paying the extra $50 that would only be spent on movie tickets and football games. I only hope the extra cost will be used for the students’ benefits, and directly enhance our learning and high school experience.

Increased parking fees provide

needed funds

stafferward

nick

In ‘truthiness,’ Colbert piece was unfair

papasstaffer

chris

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BLIZZARDCan a white teenager from the wealthy suburbs of Northern Virginia make it big in the rapping industry?

Top 5 Favorite Artists1. Lil Wayne2. Drake3. Kanye West4. 50 Cent5. DMX

Top 5 Favorite Songs1. Shooter - Lil Wyane2. Pump It Up - Joe Budden3. Just To Get By - Talib Kweli 4. Fireman - Lil Wayne5. Spitter - Lil Wayne

Weirdest Song On His iPodHide And Seek - Imogen Heep

Web sitewww.myspace.com/thablizzardmusic

How often are you compared to Eminem?“I’m not Eminem...stop calling me Eminem!”

So why Blizzard?I saw a kid rapping on an episode of MTV’s “Made” with the name Blizzard, and I thought, “I’m taking that name!”

ALL ABOUT BLIZZARD Jordan Gault is white. So is 63 percent of Oakton. But unlike the other kids at Oakton, Blizzard (Jordan) is an aspiring young rapper. Not being from the “hood,” as many successful rappers claim to be, Blizzard has a

hard time being taken seriously as a rapper.“It’s so difficult to make a name for myself because no one thinks I should be rap-

ping.” Much like his skin color, his lyrics don’t conform to stereotype. “I like to be creative and I just want people to know what I am thinking.”

Not coming from a tough urban background, the Oakton junior plays lacrosse, takes honors/AP courses, wants to go to college and exhibits an easy going, slightly mischie-vous attitude far from that of the stereotypical urban street rapper. But this doesn’t mean that Blizzard has nothing to rap about, in fact, he’s got quite a bit to say.

“It’s [Blizzard’s lyrics] unique, like it’s a really good combo of his life experiences and how he thinks. He

branches off from the typical rap subjects and tells it like it is,” said Patrick Marlow, junior. “Being white

makes his image less attractive. This might be why he hasn’t been signed to a record label, be-cause they [producers] don’t see him as ‘market-able’.” Despite the challenges that face Blizzard, he is dedicated to his art.

“I probably work about 10 hours every week, just on my music” said Blizzard as he reflected

on his studio time. Not only does Blizzard work hard, his family is there to support

him. “My mom is supportive of what I do, and my sister helps hand out CD’s as

well as helping to promote my music.” Blizzard has only sold 15 CD’s so far, and while this seems like a miniscule number, in an era of free-online music sharing, this number is impressive for a high school student. “It’s hard to rap in NOVA, because nobody really raps around here, and we don’t have any famous artists coming from this area. Nobody’s made it big,” said Blizzard.

Even though there haven’t been many famous artists to emerge from North-

ern Virginia, there is still a select group of other musicians to collaborate with. “Me and

Sagar (another rapper from Oakton) are enter-ing a local production competition. There’s

going to be local producers attending. Hopefully we’ll get noticed.” If Blizzard does get noticed, he’ll still have to fight a storm of misconceptions

to make it big. by matt johnson and allen luethke Allen Luethke

Band rocks halftime show withclassic rock hits from ‘70s

Playlist

1. Foreplay by Boston

2. Medley: Carry On, My Wayward Son by Kan-

sas/Roundabout by Yes/ La Grange by ZZ Top

3. Behind Blue Eyes by the Who

4. Black Magic Woman by Car-los Santana

The brass still shines in the Friday night lights. The drumline still pounds with the same fury. But something

is different on the marching field this season.Oakton’s marching band has brought classic rock hits

like those in popular video games such as “Guitar Hero” and “Rock Band” into their shows, giving the songs a new, bold sound. Included in the performances are instruments typically found in garages and on stages, not on the field.

“We’re taking songs from the ‘70s,” said sophomore Katherine Reft. “They’ve done a really good job with the music, so it should be pretty recognizable.”

Theatrics are also a heavy part of the show.“The idea is that myself and some other members of

the percussion section are members of a rock band called ‘Two Nine Double Zip,’ and the band members are the audience,” explains senior Anthony Schiavo, the bassist for the group.

“We’ve become actors and actresses,” adds Reft, a trumpet player. “The directors say that they want to hear the Oakton Band but not see it.”

The show provides a new musical experience for the members of the band. Reft enjoys the original style.

“We’ve never really done rock n’ roll before. The clos-est we’ve come is jazz, so it’s cool to do this and play with guitar accompaniment.”

The new experience provides a challenge for Schaivo.“It’s trickier than it seems. Tempo’s hard. Playing with

150 other people is a lot more difficult than just jamming with your friends. Music and conductors means you’ve got a lot more structure. You can’t change anything up mid-performance.”

Meanwhile, the marchers have their own difficulties.“We’re doing more dynamic things,” Reft empha-

sized. “It’s hard playing the music that you know and not the parts of the music that you’re used to.”

Despite these challenges, both appreciate the experience.

“It’s really helped my skills,” says Schiavo, “because I have to practice for eight hours a day. When you play for that long you can’t help but get better. It’s a re-ally nice atmosphere.”

Reft, mean-while, enjoys the

unique sound that the show produces.

“I love being able to play the music. It’s something you can really get into and feel. It’s also cool to blend the guitar and the drums with the instruments and have the music sound really cool.”

Audience reaction has been posi-tive to the new show.

“I think it was a really great concept,” said junior Holly Kelly, “to get people to be into the show, and appreciate it because people love rock n’ roll.”

Others have comented on the show’s effects.

“It was a vibrant display,” added fellow junior Matt Lucas.

The band contin-ues to work on the show. Reft talked about the upcom-ing additions of fireworks, set and stages. “It’s gonna be crazy.”

Senior Anthony Schiavo, right, and sopho-more Jeramey Kwan, rock out during half-time. Oakton’s marching band has brought in guitarists to play with the band during the rock-themed marching show. The theme was inspired by video games such as “Rock Band” and “Guitar Hero.”

Band’s New Sound

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Cris

tina

Har

rell

By Chris Papas

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by Katie Smith & Andy Reed

5 WORTH SPENDING MONEY ON

History teacher/Football Coach

Reggae, Classic Rock, Old School Rap

Desmond Dekker, Yellowman, Bob Marley

Reggae Recipe by Desmond Dekker

Strong Me Strong by Yellowman

Acoustical Medley by Bob Marley

Zunga Zang by Yellowman

54-46 Was My Number by Toots and the Maytalls

Both Nin-tendo Power and IGN

gave Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story

rave reviews—and who hasn’t wanted to play

as Bowser at some point or another?

The game’s realistic graphics and extraordi-nary attention to detail might have something

to do with Game Informer’s description

of NHL 10 as “the best sports game on the

planet”.

New playable characters and a bangin’ soundtrack make Guitar Hero 5 worth buying, even if (especially if!) you have the previous installment.

Apparently, the DJ market is a

decent-sized niche. Beaterator allows

players to make their own beats and keep up with those made by the

game’s co-producer, Timbaland.

Position:

Favorite Genres:

Top 3 Artists:

Top 5 Tracks:

1

2

345

Besides having spiffy graphics and tons of

unlockables, Need for Speed: Shift is one of the only car racing games to

pour time and money into the proper simulation of a racecar’s G-forces. (Read:

super-realistic.)

by Katie Smith & Andy Reed

...with Mr. Neuman

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outlook community

THEFrench Connection

Moulaye Jobe switched places with Inge Pisano, and spent a year teaching French at Oakton. Coming from a different school system, the

workload at Oakton was hard for him to adjust to. “In Senegal, the schedule is so different. There are days

when you work 2, 3, 4, or 5 hours a day, depending on the kind of schedule you have,” said Jobe.

Another prime difference is that Fairfax County schools have the advantage of a bigger budget, and therefore better technology.

“It was quite a challenge for me when I had to use a laptop in almost everything I did as a foreign teacher. [How-ever,] I know technology can make a teacher more efficient.”

In spite of Jobe’s initial frustration with technology, over his year in Virginia, he grew accustomed to it.

“I have not started teaching yet, [but] I know it will be frustrating to return to a classroom where there is next to

no technology,” Jobe said.Seeing the American education system in work also

helped him realize why Senegal and other developing coun-tries are facing such hardships.

“Developing countries need to invest more in educa-tion and research, for it’s the key to progress.”

Jobe had trouble adjusting to life in America outside of school as well. Dropped in a completely new place, Jobe had to get used to being away from his friends and

family.“The hardest thing to cope with was

the loneliness, especially at the begin-ning,” Jobe said.

After school, I would basically stay at home and stare at the ceiling. In

Senegal people always drop in unexpectedly: friends, relatives, acquaintances, even neighbors.”

However, eventually he came to enjoy all the benefits of living near Washington D.C.

“I loved Washington D.C. so much that I would take the metro almost every weekend.”

All in all, Jobe’s time in America was a learning experience. Despite the initial

struggles, he came to love and appreciate the differences from living in Senegal.

“Now I know that the world is much more colorful and diverse than the tiny places in which we sometimes confine ourselves.”

After spending a year teaching students in the impoverished country of Senegal in West

Africa, French teacher Inge Pisano has a new found appreciation for her life back in America.

Pisano switched places with a Senega-lese teacher, Moulaye Jobe, who spent a year at Oakton as resident French teacher. Pisano taught English in the city of Dakar, where the curriculum was notably different from Fairfax County.

“Senegal was based on the French system,” Pisano said. “It was a lot more traditional with more lectures and notes. The classes were very large and noisy, consist-ing of up to 55 people which made it harder to do creative activities and to give one-on-one time to each student. I’m used to moving and teaching at a very fast pace, [but] because of the heat and the lack of urgency to get things done, life moved much slower.”

Pisano also had trouble adjusting to the culture of Senegal. Since school didn’t begin immediately after she arrived there, Pisano spent time getting used to the Sen-egalese pace.

“[From] bartering with taxi drivers [to] the constant power outages, punctuality did not exist.”

Pisano was surprised at the lack of standardized testing, expectations and materials. Equipped with only a box of chalk and a sponge, she was left with four English classes and no directions or guidance.

“I didn’t know when school started. No one did. Vacation dates were uncertain. As for supplies, there was nothing in the teacher’s lounge or class-rooms. [I had to] make tests shorter [because] there was very little paper, so I could only give two tests a semester; the semester and the final,” Pisano said.

Upon returning to Oakton, Pisano has a new ap-preciation for her life at home.

“I knew that the majority of the world is poor, but didn’t truly experience it until I lived in Senegal,” Pisano said. “I was lucky to live in such a huge apart-ment by Senegalese standards. [From this,] I learned that life in the U.S.A. in an anomaly. This is the excep-tion. This is not how most of the world lives.”

ByNikki Clemons& Kyle Hughes

Pisano Comes Back to Oakton Jobe Returns Home to Senegal

by Tesla Jensen

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Leave it to Junior Brittany Dao to throw an amazing sweet 16 that not only had guests raving, but also raised over $500 for the American Cancer Association. But you have to ask your-self, what normal 16-year-old would use their birthday to raise money for cancer? Brittany recently lost her sister in the battle against that very disease. On Aug. 12 Emily Dao died of colon cancer; she was 20 years old.

“I was reading a paper my sister had wrote when she was younger about what she wanted to accomplish in life; she ironically said she wanted to find the cure for cancer,” Brittany said. “She has been the main influence in my life, and for her not to be there anymore leaves me really empty. In order for me to be filled I’ve set myself to accomplish helping her fulfill her wishes.”

Down for Dao is the name of the fundraiser the Delta Zeta sorority sisters from Virginia Tech created for Emily in order to help raise money for her cancer expenses. They have held multiple events, including benefit walks and concerts.

“I’m going to create more events and make a cancer CD filled with songs from people from our school who are musically talented,” Brittany said. “I want her to have the satisfac-tion of helping cure cancer because she was the entire inspiration for this all; so all the credit goes to her.”

Brittany has been inspired by her sister and hopes that one day Down for Dao can be as big as other awareness foundations such as Livestrong.

“Emily could have given up after knowing things were too late and it was terminal, but she fought for nine months, and just because her body gave up, her heart never did,” Brittany said. “All my life I’ve wanted to do some-thing that would help people because I want to do something meaningful. Even though I can’t see her or hear her, she’s always there, just like she prom-ised me all of my life .”

Baby, are you down for Dao?

students get down to help fight cancer

community

all photos courtesy of brittany dao

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outlook community

Alum starts Democratic organization

Two years after graduating from Oakton, Bharat Krishnan is well on his way to developing his political

career after creating the organization Hindu Democrats, a far stretch from where he was in high school.

“I knew nothing about politics prior to my senior year at Oakton,” Krishnan said. “Going into college, I started at a huge disadvantage compared to my peers who were con-vinced since middle school that they were going to be senators.”

In 2006, a political scandal involving a racial slur aimed at an Indian American peaked Krish-nan’s interest in politics.

“It just really got me an-gry and really got me listen-ing to what was going on around me. I latched onto a lot of interesting things happening at the time. [That year Democrats] took back the House and took

back the Senate,” Krishnan said.Bharat’s interest in politics and desire to

work in the field of campaign management lead him to look at American University for college.

“I was convinced I had to go there. It had great programs and was in D.C., plus no one else from Oakton was applying,” Krishnan said. “It was a fresh start.”

Bharat’s piety to Hin-duism also grew when he began college. Combined with the recent emergence of faith based organiza-tions and growing appeal of Hindu values to the American people, he was inspired to create his own organization.

“Starting a pack has been a dream of mine for three years now, and I knew whatever I eventu-ally did would have an Indian tilt to it,” Krishnan said. “I did some market research as early as Febru-

ary, and with my partner [Rajiv Srinivasan] found out there really was a niche for this.”

Six months later, on August 2, 2009, Hindu Democrats was officially founded, with the goal to appeal to value oriented voters on Democratic issues.

“We’re on immigration, economy, the global war on terror, and human rights. Those are the key issues,” Krishnan said.

Among those four issues, Krishnan considered human rights the biggest, includ-ing the activism in Darfur, a topic close to his heart.

“My family spent some time in Rwanda; my dad ran a textile factory, and we had a nursemaid,” Krishnan said. “When I was your age, [I learned] that our nursemaid and her baby son were killed in the geno-cide, [which] really resonated with me.”

Along with promoting activism on these issues, Krishnan aims to serve as a recourse to help Indian American candidates who want to run for office.

“I want to make these candidates not afraid to be who they really are,” Krishnan said. “I think there’s a winning message there.”

The GED, or General Educational Development Test, is a 7.5 hour series of examinations taken in order to earn a GED credential. It is received as either a diploma or certificate,

depending on the state, and is recognized by over 95 percent of colleges and 96 percent of employers as an equivalent to a high school diploma.

“For some students, it’s an appropriate decision,” said Marian Kendrick, Oakton’s Career Center Specialist.

Graduating from high school after the standard four years will typically yield better opportunities due to increased education time, but the GED offers a solution to many who find that they would better excel outside of high school. Some students, despite earning satisfactory grades in school, may choose to graduate early in order to get a head start on their college education or career.

The GED allows students seeking either faster advancement or alternative educational methods a way to cut their time at high school short. This approach should be pursued only by those will-ing to put forth the effort needed to take such a large step forward.

A common use of the GED today is to provide a way to pass for students who are in danger of failing high school.

“If high school is not really the right place for you, I would en-courage students to at least get their GED,” Kendrick said. “It can open more doors than just being a high school dropout.”

The six categories of the GED (Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies) compares students’ abilities. By pass-ing, the test taker demonstrates that their knowledge is equivalent to or greater than 40 percent of graduating high school seniors.

With two months to go before graduation, my completing senior year became a math-

ematical impossibility. No amount of work would have saved me from failing Algebra 2. As my classmates counted the days until summer, I decided to drop

out. I have yet to regret my departure.

I wasn’t the dropout you’ve seen on TV. No drugs, no truancy, no record. High school simply ran out of things to offer me. I had suspected that my time could be better spent educating myself, and with a diploma off the table it became impractical to stay. My parents, recognizing the situation, allowed me to withdraw on the condition that I get my GED and enroll at NOVA the following semester.

A week after leaving Oakton, I had my GED. With my new free time, I pursued the education Oakton couldn’t give me: Front end web design with a dash of audio production. A handful of Craig-slist gigs and a stint at NOVA later, I’ve just wrapped up a summer with PBS Kids Design Interactive and am back to freelancing full time.

Dropping out is not for everyone. It’s not an escape, just work of a different nature. Not every field is as forgiving as the one I chose. Painful and increasingly obsolete as it may be, traditional education remains a very safe bet. You’re younger than you think you are, and the world will wait. The GED program should be used as it was intended-- by the passionate, not the lazy.

by matt steele

Pat Steele

Name: Bharat Krishnan Age: 20 Graduated: 2007 Attending: American University Favorite Oakton Teacher: George Knight Major: Political Science Career Goals: Campaign Manager by lisa baumgartner

GED vs DegreeGED is viable option for some students GED opens doors that are otherwise closed

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“This fancy stuff, it’s not me,” said Fabio Zuluaga, smiling as he looks around his new corner of-

fice. It is well furnished with big windows, and on the wall hangs a small picture in a wooden frame from the elementary school where he once was principal.

Zuluaga is the new Cluster VIII As-sistant Superintendent, which means he oversees Oakton, South Lakes, Westfield and the 22 elementary and middle schools that feed into them. He is brand new to Fairfax County, and 22 years ago, he was brand new to the United States.

“I grew up in a great family, a family of 10 kids,” he said in his discernibly Latin American accent. He was born and raised in Colombia, South America. In Bogota, Colombia’s capitol city, Zuluaga was edu-cated and became a teacher.

“I had the opportunity to get my Bach-elor’s in chemistry and that allowed me

to teach chemistry and physics at the high school level,” he recalled. “It was a great, but kids didn’t want to take those classes. But somehow I learned to become a good teacher and an effective teacher and finally found a way to [get the students] to really like it.”

Later, Zuluaga was given the oppor-tunity to come to the United States as a bilingual science teacher.

“I wasn’t really bilingual,” he said. “I knew some English so I thought I was bilin-gual, until I came [to the United States] and I thought, ‘man, what are they talking about? I don’t understand anything they are saying.’”

Zuluaga first came to Mis-souri, where it took some time for him to get acclimated to the country.

“I worked in the inner city of Kansas City and in the begin-ning it was difficult because I didn’t know the culture, didn’t know the kids, they didn’t understand my English very well.” he said. “But then after one or two years it was just phenomenal.”

Zuluaga also was a principal and area supertintendent in Lexington, Kentucky. During his time there, he developed the only Spanish immerison program in Ken-tucky.

“I am an English-language learner my-self,” Zuluaga explains, “and I think that even if you don’t speak the language, if you are given the right support and the right opportunities, you can become fluent and then very successful.”

As Zuluaga settles into his new po-sitiont, he reflects on the benefits of his childhood in South America and also the appreciation he has for the United States.

“Colombia helped me develop a very strong foundation,” Zuluaga

said. “But once I came here to the States, I realized you have lots of opportunities if you work hard. People don’t believe it, but this is the country of opportunity. But you have to work hard. You have to apply yourself. You have to be responsible, disciplined and determined and then pretty much the sky is the limit.”

A new assistant superintendent with an interesting background comes to Cluster VIII.

92. 5% of citizens are literate

86.7% of children complete

elementary school

53.5% complete high school

owen chesser

Colombia

-erica wohlleben

By the Numbers

source: grolier online

20

sept. 22, 2009

outlook in-depth

summeros arc k 09

0 2

p

The Gover-nor’s School experience...page 21

A summer of service in Thailand...page 22

students’ summer jobs...page 24

cross-country missionary

trips ...page 23

Ob

SEP General Information:• The Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) is located at the University of Virginia and is a twelve day summer program for gifted and talented kids, with a rising 9 to11 grade program; the camp is divided into three sessions, extend-ing from late June to late July. • SEP Life: Campers live in campus dorms during their session. Within the dorms are nine individual suites with one designated counselor, a college sophomore or older.• SEP offers a wide variety of classes, ranging from learning about News and media writing in MagMen to experimenting with explosives in Chemical Explorations; most campers are likely UVA applicants.• The most drawing aspect of SEP is the social one: from Saturday night suite dates and dinners to pool days, from social time at night, to mixers with other suites, from Friday night movies to evening activities, to rela-tive independence, SEP is a fun and beneficial summer program, and a chance to experience true college life.

Personal SEP Experience:The pounding rain, the overcast skies or the darkening clouds couldn’t dampen the jovial atmosphere. It was Monday, only the second day of SEP, and at that mo-

ment, the world seemed fantastic to the campers. With over a week left of camp, we, the seven other guys from my suite and the eight girls from our “sister suite,” found ourselves braving the rain that had been drenching the University of Virginia Campus for nearly an hour. Leaving our morning classes, our original destination was to return to the dormitories

on campus. However, the driving rain motivated a de-tour to The Corner, UVA’s downtown district which was also considerably closer to the school. However, The Corner was still a mile away, and sensing our immense irritation with having to travel drenched and on foot, our two counselors decided to detour to the nearby UVA Lawn. Designed by Thomas Jefferson during the formation of UVA, The Lawn is shadowed by the looming and historic UVA Library. Two hours were spent, running through the sheltered outdoor halls lining the grass interior, taking group pic-tures, walking on The Lawn in the pouring rain, talking, catching up with friends, and

simply having a great time.

courtesy of chelsea lacleurge

A Summer In-State:The University of Virginia offers a unique experience

for campers and UVA hopefulsby Vipin Reddy

21

sept

22

2009

outlook in-depth

Governor’sFor some students, school didn’t end with the bell last June. Instead, they

applied to Governor’s School and spent three to four weeks of summer study-ing at Virginia colleges.

0902school

Junior Charlie Hanley at-tended the partial-immersion Chinese Academy this summer at VCU. Hanley had never studied Chinese before. “I knew that understanding the basics of Chinese would be useful,” Hanley explained.

by Charlotte Dobry

Q: What was your best Governor’s School experience?A: “The whole Governor’s School ex-perience.” Mehta especially enjoyed having a seminar class taught by a delegate to NATO. “The students and teachers were great,” Mehta contin-ued, “By the end, we were on a first name basis with everyone.”Q: What was your worst Governor’s School experience?A: “Leaving,” Mehta responded in-stantly. “The last day was the saddest [day] I’ve ever been through. Every-one was crying.”

photo courtesy of Isun Malekghassemi

photo courtesy of Charlie Hanley

photo courtesy of Mira Mehta

Latin Academy students, including

senior Daphne Martschenko perform

the opening ceremony for the lan-

guage academies.

Mira Mehta and her fellow stu-

dents participate in their seminar

session. “The classes were amaz-

ing,” said Mehta.

Junior Isun Malekghassemi dedicated four weeks of her sum-mer to the Governor’s School for Latin at Virginia Commonwealth University. These four weeks were spent completely “un-plugged.” Malekghassemi loved the experience and that it was “nice not to have to worry about Facebook notifications.”

Charlie Hanley and his peers enjoy traditional Chinese food, one of many ways students were exposed to Chinese culture.

Q: What was your best Governor’s School experience?A: Hanley said that having Chinese exchange students in the neighboring dorm--completely by coincidence--provided “really good perspective.”Q: What was your worst Governor’s School experience?A: “One girl went home with the flu,” said Hanley.

Senior Mira Mehta spent three weeks of her summer at Gover-nor’s School for Humanities and Visual and Performing Arts, based at Christopher Newport Univer-sity, primarily focusing on foreign policy. “Everyone was as inter-ested in foreign policy as I was,” Mehta said. “Governor’s school is a great experience...people inter-ested in any of the fields or curious about it should go.”

Q: What was your best Governor’s School experience?A: Malekghassemi’s favorite mo-ments came from the finishing “Olympic Games” and accompany-ing parade. For the games, each language had a team, though Malek-ghassemi points out that the Latin students “were the true Olympians.”Q: What was your worst Governor’s School experience?A: “Leaving.”

22

sept 22, 2009

outlook news

This summer, I volun-teered in India, working in the slums with the Calcutta Foundation and in the Indian Institute for Cerebral Palsy (IICP).

I met my reason, my first week at IICP, when we went to the medical camp for those with special needs. The medical field was a couple haphazard tents and a per-petually low supply of bandages, water, and gauze – about one third of what would’ve been sufficient. It’s a shabby piece of land. It’s a sad shortage. For them, it’s asylum. Her name was Didwani. She stares at me as I wash the bruises on her face. In arcs and prominent knuckle shapes, the soap slips over the black and blue smeared across the speckled brown of her complexion. My fingers tremble slightly as I try not to irritate the skin. She smiles through the soap bub-bles, looking up. She is 27, malnourished and deeply affected by cerebral palsy. She could not walk, and she had the mind of a 5th grader. A little blood seeps from a nasty wound above her eye. I knew it was her father. He didn’t want her in the house, not with four other children under 16 to care for. Her mother barely spoke, a thin, drawn woman of too many years to be anything but impervious to the abuse. Didwani was the only one, of all her brothers and sisters, who ever came to school with injuries. It was sickening. Her speech is halting and stuttering. He gets frustrated. She cannot cook or clean. He gets angry. She is a bur-den. She requires more aid than any of the rest of his family. He resents her. She couldn’t understand, I tell myself. She can’t know how unfair it is. She can’t under-stand why. And neither can he. He doesn’t see how she can’t control herself. How she soils herself out of fear when he looks at her, screams mindlessly, hides in positions that make her deformed limbs ache till she feels they will fall off with the pain. Didwani waits for me to smile back. I bite

my lip and try for her. She is beauti-ful, differently, with eyes too big, skin destroyed by the abuse she withstands, and the limbs that are useless, causing her only pain. I slow down, trying to listen to her stuttering recollection. Her hand jerks, knocking over a nearby pitcher. She recoils and I promise her it’s okay. She wrinkles her nose at me, refusing to believe, but allowing me to think I can help. I wash the soap off and reach for the gauze. She tips her head back with effort. Her stuttering has stopped, and she tries to say something else to me. I let her head fall forward and listen. The best she can manage for me is “I… it… it pay.” I nod, confused, waiting for her to finish. “Pay. Pay.. pains.” She jerks her head convulsively. I hold back a noise and nod dumbly. “I know, Dida, I just. Let me bandage it. Fix. I will fix you. I promise.” She shakes her head, frustrated. “Na… no. It pay-nes… in…” I glance at her encouragingly and she lifts a hand to her chest, beating against her ribs with one loose fist. I’m watching her. She grimaces. “It pains… in. my.. in my… heart.” My throat closes. I sink to my knees in front of her and pull her hands into mine. “Whe. When he …” her body convulses, and I stroke her hair back from her forehead. Didwani continues over the din of agony echoing through the medical ground. “hitss meh. When he. Hits me.” A tear slips out from under my scrunched eyelids. “It pains. In… meh-me. My heart.” My own body shook as she folded her hands back over mine and jerked forward to me a little. Her clothes were ragged in the back, but scrubbed clean. I held on to her.

“I don’t know everything. But he won’t touch you. It

will be okay.” She drew back and her face pulled

into a convulsive grimace. I held on to Dida and promised her a world I could not give her, safety I could only attempt to preserve. I knew she didn’t believ. But I would make her. I would show her I meant it. I drove her wheelchair toward the respite center.She would be safe, I swore it. We cannot change everyone’s lives. But for those of them who let us have the chance, we must give them everything we can. They open themselves for help and hurt, and you have to take that vulnerability which is the most precious gift in the world. Because there is nothing that could possibly mean more.

Ever fallen in love? Not with a person, but with a place. Some place that everyone’s heard of, but never really thought of. Some place like Singapore or Malaysia. How

about Thailand? One girl, junior Emma Weil, did just that. What started out as an interest in a foreign exchange student program to Australia ended up becoming a month-long trip to Udon Thani, where Emma fell for the farming village and its culture.

“I didn’t want to come home,” she said with a smile. “There were a lot of kids who were [homesick], but I don’t know why I wasn’t.”

At Udon Thani, Emma and other people around her age helped plant rice in the rice fields, taught kids how to swim, helped reno-vate monasteries and built houses. While some people who were less than enthusiastic, Emma wasn’t one of them.

“I was just glad to be there, so I didn’t mind doing it,” she said.

Even the weather (“In Thailand, it’s usually like, 100 degrees. All the time.”) didn’t bother her much—after she got used to it. Ob-viously, Thailand’s not the same as Virginia. “ Just culture-wise, it’s so different,” she said. “Thailand-it’s called the ‘Land of Smiles’. Everyone there is just so nice and so welcoming.” The entire trip was “completely random,” as Emma put it, but a great experience to her. “I don’t know why I picked Thailand. Who knows? But I’m so glad I did.”

Emma Weil saying goodbye to the girls at the Udon Thai orphanage.

photos courtesy of Emm

a Weil

Her scars cut through meA Volunteering Experience Column, by Kirin Gupta

Student volunteering around the globeby Dorothy Yen

In Laos - Emma

Weils’s lookout over

the Mekong from the

mountains.

kirin gupta

Devotion

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Summer

Around the end of June and the beginning of July, most students are working on their summer projects or shopping for school supplies. But junior Stephen Jordan wasn’t even in Virginia at the time; he was down in Clemson, South Carolina.

Why? For a one week, church-sponsored mission trip called “Camp Collide”, where he worked with people from his church (ranging from sophomores to seniors) to help out people whose houses have seen bet-ter days. “Our church is pretty big on missions,” Jordan said, “so there’s probably around eight mission trips each year, ranging from middle school to adults. They have trips all across the country and some international

trips.”The projects ranged from fixing floors to build-

ing a chicken coop. “There was one house where the floors were so rotted that there were holes in the floor and the family’s solution—what they could af-ford was just putting plywood on top of it. And this was a little girl’s bedroom.”

Like all physical labor, it wasn’t exactly easy ripping up rotten floor boards or putting together a little hut for chickens. But that doesn’t mean that the work wasn’t worth it. “Just seeing how thankful and happy the people were, it was very satisfying.”

There is an established stereotype that boys are supposed to do hard labor and girls are supposed to be the ones who spend time with kids. Well, during a missionary project that volunteers had dubbed “Philippi” (after the location name: Philippi, West Virginia), sophomore Morgan Bayer was an excep-tion to that stereotype.

“We would divide up the work so a couple people would be doing the actual jobs and others would just be talking to the people whose houses we were helping to fix,” Bayer said. “We hung tile floors and put on siding, we painted, did roofing and stuff like that.” The houses that were being repaired belonged to the less fortunate population of Philippi. People who couldn’t afford to pay for the repairs or were too old or frail to try to repair it themselves.

And building wasn’t the only aspect of Philippi; the group also cleaned houses, organized them and talked with the homeowners. Morgan, though, was not a part of that group. “There were some other girls who really weren’t into building that much, and they were the ones who talked... I was the one who was building with the boys and figuring out how to nail and saw wood, so it was more of the other girls who were talking with the kids and they actually established a ‘Bible study’ for them.”

Even though she primarily worked with construction, she still enjoyed the trip. “I loved it. And I think that we definitely had a good impact on the people that we helped.”

by Dorothy Yen

outlook in-depth

phot

o co

urte

sy o

f Sop

hia

Sella

rs photo courtesy of Stephen Jordan

In Queens, New York, there’s the First Presbyte-rian Church of Jamaica, one of the oldest churches in the country. For five days, that church played host to groups of teenagers from different states who came over to help out with the younger kids. One of those teenagers was Sophia Sellars, a junior at Oakton.

“I was in a group that went to this summer camp for little kids that lived in the city,” Sellars said.Sellars and the others worked with children from five to twelve years old at a summer camp that is a branch of a church.

For volunteers who had come up to Queens for a project named “Youth Works”, nights and most of their days were spent in the church.

“I slept in the auditorium,” said Sellars. “Youth Works” wasn’t the first mission trip Sellars had par-ticipated in. “I went on another mission trip when I was in seventh grade,” she recalled.

“It was kind of different—it was a construction project and we did like, hardcore work... this was more evangelistic, like, working with people.” To her, the trip is more than just fun. “[She] also [got] something out of it.”

Sophia Sellars and the campers chilling on the bench.Stephen Jordan holding wood steady for the drill.

Three students take time out of their summer to help people who need it.

Morgan Bayer, sophomore

Queens, New York Philippi, West Virginia

Clemson, South Carolina

While you were sleeping and vacationing this s

ummer,

these Oakton students w

ere hard at work....

24

sept. 22, 2009

outlook in-depth

Summer

JO

BS By M

organ Harwood

We’ve all

been the victims of lazy sum-

mers. We’ve also all been the victims of the ice breaker game;

the inevitable “getting to know you” ac-tivity that teachers force upon their students

the first day of school. It’s always the same. Stand up, say your name and one interesting thing you did

thing you did this summer. Instead of responding with the usual shrug or “played video games”, when asked about their va-cations these Oakton students were able to brag about the money they made and amazing experiences they had while working this summer.

Though many may cringe at the thought of babysitting for three long months, Stuart Rock, senior and Alex Le, junior, spent their vacations as a camp counselor and a swim team coach, re-spectively, for elementary and middle school aged kids. “I worked at a sleepaway camp for eight weeks,”said Rock. “I got to hang out with the kids, eat meals with them, direct their activities, and teach them basic things about life.”

Le felt that his job as a swim team coach taught him to be a role model for the younger swimmers. “I would teach the kids stokes, techniques and the mechanics of swimming,” Le said, “and basically just make sure that they had a good summer experience.” In addition to gaining role model status among a avid fanbase of eight year olds, Le helped the rather large group bond as a team. “A moment when I was really proud of my work was when I got the kids to swim legally instead of disqualifying and all of their families and friends celebrated.” Lauren Doss, senior, took on a different breed of job this sum-mer. Following her aspirations to become a veterinarian, Doss worked at Dulles Gateway Pet Retreat in June, July, and part of August. “The reason why I chose this job was not be-cause of money, considering it only paid minimum wage,” Doss said, “But because I wanted experience working with animals.” Though Doss initially wished to work at an animal clinic and familiarize herself with medical aspects of veterinary science, she still felt that “the job was reward-ing.”

Despite their positive experiecnes with summer jobs, all three Oakton students felt the reprecussions of taking on responsibilites while the rest of the student body was resting and relaxing. “I had to leave for work the day after school ended,” Stuart explained.

“So I didn’t get to hang out with any of

my friends.” Doss too had little time for a social life, explaining that her job took up a ton of her time and “was almost as bad as school”. Yet, Doss also had to deal with the dirty work that comes with the terriroty when caring for hundreds of dogs every day. “I had to wake up every morning at 5:15 and work for eight to ten hours,” Doss said. “At work, I had to feed the dogs; take down their beds; let them all out; wash the blankets, dishes and cages; and even scoop up their poop.”

Though their jobs were tiresome, time consum-ing, demanding, and somewhat unsanitary in

Doss’ case, these Oakton students can still say that they made a difference when asked about

their summer vacations.

“I’m definitely coming back

next year. I just love hanging

out with the kids.”

“I would wake up every morn-

ing at 5:15 saying that I was

going to quit. But then I would

go to work and play with the

dogs, and every day I would

leave loving my job.”

Go Cougars!

10940 Fairfax BoulevardFairfax, VA 22030

703-591-0591703-591-0576 (fax orders)

From Oakton High School, go right on Sutton Road, then right on Blake Lane. Go left on Route 123 and then right on Fairfax Boulevard (Route 50/Lee Highway).

We are ¾ mile on the right hand side (near the Starbucks)!

(cover photo) Friday September 11, the Oakton High football game begins with a ceremony commemorating those lost in the 9/11 attacks. Marine Corps members from the Quantico Marine Base stand on the Oakton football field as the Oakton football players storm the field before the game.

(1) Young fans enthusiastically meet the Oakton Cougar Mascot at the Septem-ber 11 football game.

(2) After the Oakton Varsity Football team scores a touchdown, the Varsity Cheerleaders shout in celebration. The football team won the game, 35-34, against West Springfield.

9/11 game celebrates community heros

photos by Sarah Kashanian

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Regardless of being out of season, junior Kit Mahoney endured dance team camp, dance practices and Coach Harris’ workouts.

1:00pmDrive to school, meet with coach Harris

1:00-1:30pmBox jumps or do cardio on the treadmill

1:30-2:00pmGo up to track to work on the triple jump technique or long jump technique

2:00pm Head home, do this 3 times a week

Training with Kit Mahoney

During the summer, many of Oak-ton’s fall sports teams, including football, cross country and field

hockey participated in training camps that helped them to prepare for the upcoming season. These teams hoped to gain experi-ence, improve their performance, and bond.

For two weeks in August, football went through their training program, called two-a- days. “I feel like we really grew as a team because of the experience of two-a-days,” said freshman football player Ahmet Aydin. Athletes would show up at 6:30 in the morn-ing for the first practice, and then have a short lunch break before going back out for a

second practice. “The hardest part was wak-ing up early because I had a hard practice the day before,” said Aydin, “and I really wanted to get a good night’s sleep, but I couldn’t because I had to get up early the next day.”

Cross-country had a six-day training camp in Capon Ridge, West Virginia. Every day athletes would wake and run eight or nine miles in the morning, and in the eve-ning they would come back out for another four or five mile run.

While most students would rather not go through a difficult training regimen that takes up part of their summer, some students choose to do just that.

Kit Mahoney, a member of the dance team participated in an intensive training program. Despite the fact that she didn’t have to attend a mandatory camp for dance, she still chose to reach out to track coach Ty Harris. “There’s a long break after the season, and I wanted to find a program to do in the summer,” Mahoney said. “So I sent him an e-mail and he said ‘yea sure’.” Dur-ing the summer Mahoney had training in the weight room three times a week. “We would do weight room work, work on the treadmill and do triple and long jump work for an hour,” Mahoney said. Most of the dance team uses this time as a much needed break to rest and prepare for the upcoming season. “Some of the other girls think I’m crazy be-cause our practice schedule is already hard” Mahoney said. “But it has been fun.”

Athletes beat the heat to beat the competition

-by callum kelton

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OUTBA CK BOWL

28

sept. 22, 2009

outlook sports

Kicking and dancing during the halftime show, the Oakton and Madison dance teams set aside

the battle on the football field for a performance that underscored sports-manship.

“We had three practices with Madi-son before the Outback Bowl,” said Erin Turley, a senior on the dance team. “It was interesting to prepare with Madison because they do jazz and we do pom and kick.”

Despite the difference in techniques, the Cougarettes and the Madison

dance team collaborate for the Outback Bowl every year. This year the routine was choreographed by junior Ceci Nguyen and senior Carly Isakowitz.

The dance team enjoys the large crowds at the games.

“[The Outback Bowl] is fun because it’s a home game for both teams in a way,” explains Turley.

As there is only a varsity dance squad at Oakton, there are several freshmen on the dance team this year. “The freshmen this year have been awesome,” Turley acknowledged. “They’ve worked re-ally hard.”

-by Pasquale Prezi-oso and Spencer

Conley

Cougars dominate the playing field in the 14th annual Outback Bowl, beating Madison 14-0.

Oakton and Madison

Dance Together

“It was a great win and we had awesome support from the fans,” said junior quarterback Jimmy Boone on his first time starting in a varsity game.

“We have a tradition to do Mohawks,” said Nick Koutris, senior offensive lineman. “ We all went to Sam Strauss’ house and each person shaved a teammate’s head.”

owen chesser

owen chesser

sara iacavino

OUTBA CK BOWL

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9

outlook sports

W hile many stu-

dents see the Outback Bowl as just a game of friendly competi-tion between Oakton and Madison, there is another festivity that

takes place that embodies the true spirit of the Outback Bowl. On Wed., Sept. 2, the var-sity captains of all fall sports at Oakton and Madison met at the Outback Restaurant in Vienna to share a steak lunch with members of the schools’ administration and coaches.

As a captain of the Cross Country team, I wasn’t sure how the event would go. I was concerned that the gathering would be full of speeches. I was pleasantly surprised that there was a casual atmosphere for interaction between athletes and coaches of their respec-

tive sports.The more relaxed forum allowed for

the athletes and coaches to casually so-cialize and enjoy their time while discuss-ing their teams. While the athletes dined,

the athletic directors and principals spoke about increased camaraderie between Oak-ton and Madison, a rarity throughout the year, as the schools are in different athletic

districts despite the fact that they are sepa-rated by only a mile and three traffic lights. It was nice to see that schools can battle during the game but cooperate an develop friend-ships off the field as well.

Beyond the Game...Cougar and

Warhawk atheletes meet off the field for lunch, talk of

sports and friendship.

1998 oakton-21 madison-141999 oakton-27 madison-72000 oakton-16 madison-6 2001 oakton-22 madison-192002 madison-6 oakton-5 2003 oakton-13 madison102004 oakton -24 madison-02005 oakton-35 madison-142006 oakton-41 madison-242007 madison-14 oakton-72008 oakton-21 madison-142009 oakton-14 madison-0Hi

stor

y of t

he Ga

me

“We just forgot about rankings and played; the coaches worked us hard and it paid off,” said senior defensive lineman Daniel Aevermann on the team ranking third in the preseason for the metropoli-tan area.

“The crowd was really pumped and I could tell they were excited for a new season,”said the Cougar.

stafferwoodhouse

matt

owen chesser

Christina Harrell

30

sept. 22, 2009

outlook sports

Andrew Leonard, sr.

Lauren doss, sr.cheerleading

Thefallline

up

football - defense

“On defense our main goal is to get the ball back to the offense. We have a lot of young guys, but our goal is another Regional Title.”

Lauren Mathieu, sr.f eld hockey

“We have a new coach and lots of young players; our main goal is to bond and become the a team that’s always there for each other.”

“We have a lot of talent this year, so our team’s goal is to make it to Regionals for the frst time in 10 years.”

The season’s top athletes

talk about their goals

31

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9

outlook sports

jimmy boone, jr.

Andrew mccullen, sr.cross country

“Our team’s goal this season is to win Districts, Regionals and contend for States. I’m looking forward to defending our state title.”

Lanie Smith, sr.cross country

football - offense

“Wendy’s Invitational in North Carolina is going to be great. It’s a really fast course and a chance to get a personal record.”

Amanda Steinhagen, sr.

golf

“I’m really looking forward to Districts because every team is there. It is every team for itself and also every person for themself.”

Kristen Fish, Sr. dance

“This year my goal is to lead the team and set the example with perfect dance team figure. As a team our goal is to compete in Nationals.”

Lee Brinkman, sr. volleyball

“Our goal at the beginning of the season was just to do better than last year, but afterstarting 6-0, our new goal is to win Districts.”

“Our goal is to win States, but isn’t that everyone’s? For our wins I give credit to the offensive line and our fans.”

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