Class of 2013 takes their last step as seniors

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
June 17, 2013
Filed under Student Life, Top Stories

  The Class of 2013 graduated last Friday, June 14 in the gym. 2013 is the last class to graduate in the gym, as the next year's senior class will graduate at the Patriot Center June 18, 2014. Senior Edgeri Hudlin and English teacher Allison Shreck were selected by seniors as student and... Read More »

2013 ventures outside Virginia for colleges and universities

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
June 10, 2013
Filed under News, Student Life

While the majority of seniors are choosing to stay in Virginia for post-secondary education, others have decided to venture out-of-state to colleges and universities elsewhere. After Virginia, the most popular states in which seniors chose to attend... Read More »

Commentary: ACT indicates college preparedness better than SAT under curent format

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
June 10, 2013
Filed under Uncategorized

The Scholastic Aptitude Test, commonly known as the SAT, has been a national leader in standardized testing, indicative of college preparedness and readiness. However, the SAT, administered by the College Board, fails to achieve this benchmark,... Read More »

Former Texas leader named new FCPS superintendent

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
May 8, 2013
Filed under News, Top Stories

Dr. Karen Garza was formally named FCPS Superintendent Jack Dale’s replacement in late April. Garza currently holds the position of superintendent of the Lubbock Independent School District, which has fewer than 30,000 enrolled students, in Lubbock, Texas. According to The Washington Post,... Read More »

Changes to SOLs in structure, content have mixed results

Alexa Amster, opinion
April 25, 2013
Filed under Opinion

Changes to Standards of Learning testing benchmarks will be fully implemented during this May’s testing window. The Virginia Department of Education agreed on these changes in 2010, with the intention of implementing them over the next three years. Changes to benchmarks and standards in math, reading... Read More »

Halacy receives Student Peace Award

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
April 25, 2013
Filed under News, Student Life, Top Stories

Senior Amanda Halacy is a 2013 recipient of the Student Peace Award of Fairfax County. The award honors twelve high school juniors or seniors who demonstrate an understanding of the necessity to promote peace. According to Margaret Rogers, the chair of the Student Peace Awards Committee, Halacy’s... Read More »

Murray, Vleugels start their own tie dye business

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
April 24, 2013
Filed under Features, Seahawk Stories, Top Stories

Juggling the demands of high school is tough enough. Senior Chris Murray and junior Lucie Vleugels, however, operate a tie dye business on the side. The two started their Chris and Lucie’s Tie Dye business in late September of last year after developing tie dye as a hobby. The two had been friends... Read More »

Concussion awareness increases in high school athletics

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
April 18, 2013
Filed under Sports

The Centers for Disease Control recently claimed that concussions in sports occur at an “epidemic level.” Concussions have affected sports at the professional level massively, with evidence that these injuries caused traumatic brain damage. Such injuries have... Read More »

South Lakes holds first International Week celebration

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
March 5, 2013
Filed under News

South Lakes’ first annual Multicultural and Diversity Week began March 4 and runs through March 8. Counselor Madiha Jamil, along with Leadership, has coordinated the week-long event, which strives to recognize the diverse Seahawk community, which represents over 95 countries and 62 spoken languages. “In... Read More »

Dan Steinberg: Washington Post writer and sports blogger

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
February 19, 2013
Filed under Uncategorized

As a kid, Dan Steinberg always loved sports. Pursuing a career in sports journalism became a no-brainer. “In some ways, I think I liked reading about sports more than watching sports, which doesn't make a lot of sense,” Steinberg said. “I never really thought seriously about doing any other... Read More »

Language course selection should include American Sign Language

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
February 15, 2013
Filed under Opinion

Seven high schools in Fairfax County currently offer American Sign Language as a foreign language: Hayfield, West Potomac, Oakton, Chantilly, West Springfield, Westfield, and Woodson. Why not South Lakes? Sign language,... Read More »

Alexa Amster: Congress supports procrastination nation

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
January 8, 2013
Filed under Opinion, Top Stories

Happy New Year, or shall I say Happy Valentine’s Day? It is now three days into the New Year, but there are only 37 days until Happy Valentine’s Day, so you should get cracking. We have braved Christmas in October, but now stores have traded tinsel and Barbie ornaments for heart-shaped treats... Read More »

Texting service fosters more effective communication for teachers, pupils

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
December 23, 2012
Filed under Opinion, Uncategorized

Teachers have adopted a new alert system, known as Remind 101, which allows for more open communication between    teachers and their students. By subscribing to Remind 101 teachers are provided an independent number which they can use to send texts to their students. Once students subscribe, they... Read More »

Two state senators draft bill that could alter state law on texting and driving

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
December 22, 2012
Filed under News, Top Stories

The Virginia General Assembly wants to crack down on texting and driving with laws stricter than those currently enforced by state policemen. The current law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from texting and driving. It also makes texting and driving a secondary offense for those of age, meaning... Read More »

Seniors attend conference at White House stressing female participation in democracy

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
December 21, 2012
Filed under News, Uncategorized

Seniors Nicole Rappaprt, Abby Studen, Becky Oswalt, and Tatevik Markayan traveled to the White House Dec. 17 to participate in a “codeathon” sponsored by the White House Council on Women and Girls. The “codeathon” paired more than thirty girls from Metropolitan area middle and high schools... Read More »

Hour requirement does not reflect intrinsic worth of service

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
November 16, 2012
Filed under Opinion, Uncategorized

High school students have to meet many requirements for classes and devote time to extracurriculars and other various commitments. In addition, students are obligated to complete community service hours for IBMYP, honor societies, and IB Diploma CAS hours. But, does the requirement of volunteer hours... Read More »

Late Wednesday would facilitate both students and teachers alike

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
October 19, 2012
Filed under Opinion

Administrators continue to look into the possibility of a late Wednesday start. The extra time in the morning would be allotted for teacher collaboration. It would begin at 7:20 a.m. and would be an excellent opportunity for teachers and students... Read More »

College Fair/Night scheduled for Oct. 21-22 at Fair Oaks Mall, Hayfield Secondary

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
October 19, 2012
Filed under News

Optimal opportunities come to the Fairfax County area during College Fair and College Night for high school students considering college after graduation. The College Fair will be held at Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax on Sunday, Oct. 21 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Approximately 400 universities from around... Read More »

PTSA supports post-secondary school options

Alexa Amster, opinion editor
September 20, 2012
Filed under News, Uncategorized

In the following months the Parent Teacher Student Association will sponsor multiple college preparation courses, seminars, and mock standardized tests for those looking at post-secondary school options. Mock SAT and ACT tests will be offered on Sept. 29, October 20 and Nov. 10 with feedback sessions... Read More »

Sports commentary: NFL must be proactive to prevent harm to players

Alexa Amster, copy editor
May 21, 2012
Filed under Opinion, Sports

The gridiron has become a battlefield and players are the ones who suffer as a result. Junior Seau had a stellar NFL career spanning twenty seasons, highlighted by twelve Pro Bowl appearances and a championship ring with the ’94 Chargers.  He was known for his bone-crushing hits and played the... Read More »

Administration contemplating later start time on Wednesdays

Alexa Amster, copy editor
May 18, 2012
Filed under News

The administration is exploring the option to start Wednesdays at 8:05 a.m. instead of the normal 7:20 a.m. Assistant principal Chad Lehman presented the plan to parents at a PTSA meeting last Tuesday. The schedule would grant teachers an extended period of time to work with members of their departments. Read... Read More »

The Bully Project strives to raise awareness on school bullying

Alexa Amster, copy editor
May 9, 2012
Filed under Trends

Imagine being socially rejected by peers for something out of your control, whether it is where you come from, who you like, or what you look like. Unfortunately, social rejection is the harsh reality of many adolescents across the nation. The effects of social rejection are not only depression... Read More »

Personal Project fair and art gallery display student creativity

Alexa Amster, copy editor
April 20, 2012
Filed under Student Life

The IBMYP Personal Project Fair and IB Art Gallery showcased student creativity April 19. The Personal Project Fair featured displays of honors English sophomores who designed a project of their choice. The subjects of the projects varied from self-expression through artwork and photography to tutorials... Read More »

Commentary: Facebook not worth time

Alexa Amster, copy editor
April 20, 2012
Filed under Opinion

There are the basic needs necessary for survival: water, food, and shelter, just to name a few. However, many would add a new element to that group, thanks to that Harvard drop out who came up with a billion dollar idea. Facebook. I do not have a facebook and I have survived without notifications,... Read More »

Annual MYP fair showcases personal projects

Alexa Amster, copy editor
April 16, 2012
Filed under News

The IBMYP Personal Project Fair will showcase student-designed projects Thursday, April 19 from 6-8 p.m.   Sophomores attending must arrive by 5:30 p.m. in order to set up their projects.  Sophomores that need additional equipment for their display should arrive no later than 5 p.m. These projects... Read More »

Four DECA finalists advance to international competition

Alexa Amster, copy editor
April 13, 2012
Filed under News

DECA students participated in the Virginia State Leadership conference in Norfolk from March 9-11.  The DECA club focuses on integrating educational and leadership development into the classroom. The qualities learned in the classroom can then be applied to the workforce. ... Read More »

West Side Story to hit the stage

Alexa Amster, copy editor
March 28, 2012
Filed under Entertainment, News

The theatre department will present a production of "West Side Story" in the Little Theatre on April 26-28 and May 3-5. All shows commence at 7 p.m.  The musical, set during the 1950’s in New York City, depicts two antagonistic gangs, the Sharks and Jets, who continually... Read More »

Class of 2014 to sponser 2nd Annual Talent Hunt

Alexa Amster, copy editor
March 2, 2012
Filed under Student Life

The Class of 2014 will host the 2nd Annual Talent Hunt on March 10 at 2 p.m. Assistant principal Dana Walker’s former fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, is sponsoring this event and awarding prizes to the best performances. The show is open to all students who can perform a piece that falls under one... Read More »

New IB certificate to become available next year

Alexa Amster, copy editor
February 14, 2012
Filed under Student Life

The International Baccalaureate Career-Related Certificate will be available to rising juniors beginning next year. The IB CC is a new program which will serve as an alternative to the IB Diploma program. This program targets students who want to take IB courses, but do not wish to obtain the IB Diploma.... Read More »

Leadership honors cancer survivors

Alexa Amster, copy editor
February 2, 2012
Filed under Student Life

A new fund raising effort, known as Seahawk Strong, is running from Jan. 3 through Feb. 10. The Student Government Association and leadership class started the movement which strives to raise money for cancer institutions that will put the funds towards cancer research, patients,... Read More »

Registration open for mock ACT and SAT

Alexa Amster, copy editor
February 2, 2012
Filed under News, Student Life

Registration is open for students interested in taking the mock ACT and/or SAT tests sponsored by the Academic Boosters. The tests will help students prepare for the upcoming official SAT and ACT tests that are taking place on March 10 and April 14. Registration... Read More »

Romney to visit Reston during campaign on Feb. 10

Alexa Amster, copy editor
February 2, 2012
Filed under News

Mitt Romney will speak at the Hyatt Regency in the Reston Town Center on Feb. 10. Registration for the event begins at 7 a.m. and the program starts at 7:45 a.m. The former governor of Massachusetts and 2012 GOP Presidential... Read More »

Best Buddies promotes holiday spirit with Christmas carols

Alexa Amster, copy editor
December 21, 2011
Filed under Student Life

Best Buddies club members caroled through the hallways on Dec. 19. Best Buddies, an international organization, encourages the special needs students to get involved with the greater South Lakes community. The club partners special-needs students with other students to create long-lasting friendships. Club... Read More »

Winter Dance Showcase delights audience

Alexa Amster, copy editor
December 16, 2011
Filed under Entertainment

 Essence Dance Company presented student talent at the annual Winter Dance Showcase on Dec. 8. Sixteen routines, choreographed by students and dance teacher Terlene Terry-Todd, filled the Little Theatre with grace and exciting moves. Junior Michelle... Read More »

Varsity girls basketball loses to Annandale in pre-season scrimmage

Alexa Amster, copy editor
November 18, 2011
Filed under Sports

Varsity girls basketball hosted the Annandale Atoms for its first scrimmage on Thursday, November 17. After each quarter, the score was reset back to zero, but the team lost to the Annandale Atoms by a total of three points. The scrimmage helped establish what parts of the team’s game needs... Read More »

Theatre department presents romantic comedy “Almost, Maine”

Alexa Amster, copy editor
November 16, 2011
Filed under News

The theatre arts department presents the opening night of “Almost, Maine” on Thursday, November 17 at 7 p.m in the Little Theatre. Actor John Cariani wrote "Almost, Maine," which follows the lives of locals who fall in and out of love in the fictional town of Almost, Maine.  It originally opened... Read More »

First South Lakes book club to begin meeting in media center

Alexa Amster, copy editor
November 15, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories

The newly formed South Lakes book club will meet every green day during the Rewards and Remediation block. Students in good standing are encouraged to attend the meetings in the media center.  The club's first meeting of the year was held on November 15. George Mason University professor Laura... Read More »

Seahawks celebrate Around the World Day

Alexa Amster, copy writer
October 19, 2011
Filed under Student Life, Top Stories

Seahawks celebrated the diverse culture of South Lakes during Around the World Day on Tuesday October 18. The day was filled with sombreros, feathers, and togas.  Seniors celebrated their final Around the World Day by wearing the signature togas made out of bed sheets, fabric, or whatever was... Read More »

Local burger joint to add Seahawk Burger to menu

Alexa Amster, copy editor
October 13, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories

Be Right Burger plans to design a Seahawk Burger that will benefit The South Lakes Sentinel publication. BRB is a local burger joint with its sole location in the Reston Town Center.  However, the venue hopes to expand in the coming years to Tysons Corner. The current location stresses eco-friendly... Read More »

Students gear up for 2011 Homecoming

Alexa Amster, copy editor
September 28, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories

Preparations are under way with just under a month to go until Homecoming Week 2011. The week kicks off Monday, October 17, with Fashion Disaster Day, where students can dress as uncoordinated as they like. “I’m definitely looking forward to Fashion Disaster Day because I’ll be able to wear... Read More »

South Lakes kicks off the school year with annual block party

Alexa Amster, copy editor
September 12, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories

South Lakes held its second annual block party Friday September 2. The block party was postponed to this date after being rained out on the previous date of August 25. The South Lakes community walked through tables that supported many of the activities that South Lakes has to offer including the theatre,... Read More »

Tully to retire after 37 years in education

Alexa Amster, copy editor
June 7, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories

After a decade of working at South Lakes, director of student services Shannon Tully is retiring at the end of the school year. Tully has been a member of the Seahawk faculty since 2001.  Her time at South Lakes culminates a 37-year career in education. “My father was a teacher, counselor and... Read More »

Fly fishing fanatic: Principal Butler shares his true passion

Alexa Amster, copy editor
June 2, 2011
Filed under Sports

Principal Bruce Butler loves being a part of the South Lakes community.  Also, he enjoys engaging in his favorite hobby- fly fishing. Butler began fishing when he was very young at a creek just outside his home in the town of Fort Lewis, Washington.  At age... Read More »

Wooten replaces Hill as head football coach

Alexa Amster, copy editor
June 2, 2011
Filed under Sports

Assistant coach Marvin Wooten was named head coach of the varsity Seahawk football team. Wooten graduated from South Lakes in 2002, and went to Howard University in Washington D.C.  He rejoined the South Lakes squad in 2006 as assistant coach to John Ellenberger, and, for last season, Andy Hill. Hill... Read More »