By Melissa Mirabello
Earlier this year, I asked my Accelerated English 10 students to write an expository essay. Some selected the topic “How to say goodbye.” I remember their inspiring words from these essays, yet one sentiment resonates the most: a goodbye should be personalized and sincere. I aspire to meet both criteria as I bid farewell to a passion of mine, the BHS school newspaper, The Redcoat Review.
From the onset, the school motto, “Where a Voice Can be Heard” served as a beacon for the newspaper staff. A talented layout editor years ago, Mike Bird, was so inspired by it that he created a newspaper header to read, “Where an Opinion can be Written.” There is great truth to this slogan; over the years that I have advised the paper, opinions have flourished, sometimes enraging readers, and other times influencing positive changes. As an adamant proponent of First Amendment rights, I defended students’ expression, yet attempted to increase students’ sense of moral and ethical obligation to their school and community. It is my hope that students will continue contributing their ideas to school publications. Their voices are vital to the school’s success and the plight of the writer and journalist: to make an indelible mark in this world.
Kathleen Strain is one student who has forged her way in the written realm. A young woman with a heart and soul for journalism, Kathleen has a keen awareness of the school atmosphere and activities that shape life at BHS. Her tenacity and dedication have validated her role as editor-in-chief. I will miss her, undoubtedly, but know that the paper will prosper under her leadership.
In addition to Kathleen, several other students have enriched my experiences with the school newspaper. However, there is one specific person who has been invaluable to the newspaper for the past four years. Zachary Beschler became the graphic guru during his freshman year at BHS. Since that time, he has transformed the graphic design of the paper. His talent and expertise far surpass a typical high school student. It has been a privilege to work with him and learn from him. I wish him the best as he enters college and prospers in his business.
My tenure at Berlin High School will end this year; however, I have become both a better person and a better educator while here. Thanks to all of the students, staff, and administration for their kindness and encouragement. Farewell committed readers of The Redcoat Review. Writers: keep the legacy alive.
To my editors-in-chief...my gratitude:
2006-2007 Kathleen Strain
2004-2006 Jessica McKenzie
2003-2004 Leah Driska
2001-2003 Carolyn Baccaro & Kim Gerdis
2000-2001 Kevin Forsyth