An addition to the Vanguard Staff

It has been confirmed by District 214 that Sharyn Marsh of Elk Grove High School will be taking Mr. O’Brien’s place as director of Vanguard next year. The district created a new position called Director of Alternative Programs. Ms. Marsh will oversee Young Adult Program. It is unclear if she is overseeing Forest View Alternative School as well.

“I think she’ll be a great director and I’m so excited to see her here,” says former Elk Grove student AJ Bays.

Ms. Marsh is currently Dean of Students and Division Head for PE, Health and Driver Ed at Elk Grove High School.

Our beloved sub Michael Koralik also was a substitute teacher and did some work at Elk Grove. There, he got the chance to work for Ms. Marsh. He said Ms. Marsh was great to work with. Also, he said his brother Jeff was Ms. Marsh’s PE student back in the day at Rolling Meadows. He also felt she was a great person and teacher.

Mr. O’Brien doesn’t know much about Ms. Marsh and has yet to meet her. “She’s highly regarded at Elk Grove and was picked out of a pool of strong candidates,” said Mr. O’Brien.

“I’ve met her two times, and she seemed nice,” said Mr. Markos.

“ My main goals for Vanguard are to learn about the current program and lead the staff in assuring the program meets the needs of our students in preparing them for their future,” said Ms. Marsh.

“I’m optimistic. Life will be different but good next year,” said Dr. Koralik.

We look forward to getting to know Ms. Marsh next year.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Next Year's Schedule

8:00-8:20 Team

8:20-8-55 P.E.

9:05-9:30 Math, Grammar, Drop and Read, Skills

9:30-11:30/12:00 Class/Service

11:30-12:30 Lunch

12:30-2:30 Class/Service

2:30-3:00 Class, Team, P.E., RTI

Be alert of our special guests!

Staff have been playing practical jokes on Mr. Kain since the mouse incident last week.

Mice have invaded Vanguard.

Last week, mice decided to make a nice, little home inside a Girl Scout cookie box in Mr. Kain's desk drawer. He said he opened the box one day and three (alive) baby mice fell out. According to Mr. Kain, Mr. O’Brien fed the mice to his snakes located in the Media Room. "It's not fair to a mouse to be thrown in a tank. It's unethical and unnatural. At least in nature they have a chance," said an infuriated Ms. DeMeo.

“There has been more evidence of mice since then,” says Mr. Kain.

Teachers and some students would like to keep this place clean, and mice free. Lunch ends at noon so by that time all food, wrappers, and drinks should be picked up and tossed in the garbage.

“Exterminators told us that under my desk is a prime time spot for mice to make a nest, so I cleaned it,” said Ms. O’Neill. She had camping equipment and clothing under the desk. It's been there for years in case students need stuff for trips or outfit changes for service learning.

Every day, there seems to be more and more garbage around the school. Some teachers and students are angered by these rude acts. Ms. Felfle stated, “What I would like to do is take the garbage students leave behind and put it in their houses. Let’s see how they feel!”

Witnesses report that Chris Przybylo, Evan Jakubowicz, Nick Bowden, Essence Herman, Nicole Giannini and Stephani Ortiz are chronic offenders. They all refused to make a comment for the blog at this time.

“I’ve been called a mother before but I’m nobody’s mom. Clean up your own mess!” Words of wisdom from Pasta.

Let's keep our school clean or we'll lose the privilege to eat food around here.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Service makes a difference

The year is coming to an end! All students' last day of service is this Friday. Students shared memories and things they've learned at their service sites during team this morning.

"Service may be over on June 3, but that does not mean girls can wear short-shorts! Please keep those short shorts for the weekend," said Ms. O'Neill.

"The best memory at Miner was the first day because I was nervous and everyone there helped me get past it." -Amanda Pazdzioch. Service site: Miner Elementary

"One thing I learned is that kids look up to teenagers a lot, so we need to be role models." -Enrique Loaiza. Service site: Forestview Elementary

"Being at Ridge has taught me so many things about myself. It has taught me to have so much patience and that I love working with kids on the Autism spectrum." -Val Carley. Service site: Ridge Elementary

"The best part of my service site was meeting new people and going to Pennsylvania." -Matt Beutel. Service Site: Empire Beauty School

"I learned how to put tires on rims and how to do tire rotations." -Jorge Orellana. Service Site: Formula Marathon Station

"I learned that teaching kids isn't as easy at it looks." -Christy Ochoa. Service site: Ridge Elementary

"They gave me a book filled with letters on my last day and they were sad to see me leave." Matt Glatczak. Service Site: Devonshire

"My best memory was when I saw a smile on the kids' faces when I bought them snacks." Gio Rodriguez. Service site: Forestview Elementary

"I learned that to work with kids, you need a lot of patience...and I don't want kids until I'm 30!" Jenny Rodriguez. Service site: Ridge Elementary

Annemarie Schaefer

Yes, bike. No, canoe.

The group of students and teachers that were supposed to go on a camping trip to Indiana went on a bike riding trip to Chicago today. They wheeled around Lake Michigan. We can't wait to hear all about it when they get back!

"It was so refreshing. I got to feel the wind blow in my hair all day instead of sitting in Room 4," says Ms. DeMeo.

Bike the Drive is this weekend downtown if anyone is interested. Service and PE points will be awarded. Go to bikethedrive.org.

Times they are a-changin'

A new director, a new group of students, and increased skills-based ACT/test prep. Vanguard's 2011-2012 school year is filled with new opportunities and experiences that will get kids better prepared for the future.

Students are reacting in all sorts of ways about the longer school day. “It’s not a big deal. It’s just an hour!” says Alex Kresen.

Next year, the school day will end at 3:00 instead of 2:05 to "increase academic time for students," according to Mr. Kosirog. Staff are holding meetings after school to work out the schedule. Fear not, Harper, cosmetology school, nail school, PAC, and all service sites will not be affected by the new agenda.

The change from 2:00 to 2:05 earlier in the year was already a hard adaptation for Vanguard students. "I think it's going to be hard on the students, not teachers. Our school day ends at 3:30 regardless. We'll adjust. It'll be okay," said Ms. DeMeo.

Students aren’t taking the news as lightly. Almir Dekanovic says, “It’s going to be very depressing because this school always ended at 2:00. This is a drag.”

Wheeling and Buffalo Grove kids take longer to get home than others. Kayla Woodward sits on the bus for a total of almost an hour and a half some days. She fears with the later days she will get home very late. “Buses will be added to the routes so kids won’t get home as late,” according to O’Brien.

This news is starting up conflict for many working students. “It’s going to be a problem for some kids. Some have to get to work right after 2:00,” stated Dr. Koralik.

“I don’t think it’s fair. That’s the point of Vanguard, we’re supposed to be different than other schools. Now we’re going to be in school almost the same amount of time and we travel further,” said Danielle Pettibone.

One proposed schedule sets aside time a couple times a week to do extra PE and clubs for students who are on track, according to Ms. O’Neill.

“It’ll be interesting to see how Vanguard maintains its culture in terms of its after school activities and clubs which have always been done after school,” says Ms. Felfle.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Vanguard gives a helping hand

Vanguard students are stepping up after over 67 tornadoes struck in just this past week. The worst tornado of them all hit Sunday night at 6 PM; it destroyed over half of Joplin, Missouri. 132 people are dead, and 156 are still missing.

This heartbreaking news hit home to many Vanguard students. Four students in particular wanted to step up and do something about it. What started out as a health class project quickly turned into a school fundraiser.

Angie Mazanova, Eli Martinez, AJ Bays, and Kayla Woodward put together a project in hopes to raise money and supplies for the victims of the tornado. Eli and AJ stood in front of the school at big team this morning and presented a devastating Power Point. It consisted of an aerial view of the tornados path, a video of the actual tornado, and pictures of the destroyed community. Minutes after the presentation, Vanessa Cardona jumped in to help the cause. “I’m going to make an add about the Joplin tornado so we can get Forestview to help us with our donations,” said Vanessa.

Every pair of eyes in the room was glued to the screen as they watched what it was like for these people to loose everything in the snap of a finger. A choked up Ms. O’Neill shared that a few of her friends’ homes were destroyed in this natural disaster. “Vanguard students and their compassion has really brought my friend and his family hope during an extremely rough time.”

“We’re trying to make students aware. A lot of kids didn’t know about the tornado until Wednesday. We’re trying to tell them how much Joplin needs help and how much the donations we can give mean to people down there,” stated Kayla Woodward.

Any one and every one can do a little something to help raise money for Joplin citizens. A list was passed out during big team that consists of supplies that can be donated. There is also a can next to the coffee cart for money donations. If a student needs to borrow a writing utensil, they will face a fee. The money will be given to Joplin.

Every penny counts. As of this afternoon, Vanguard raised over 40 dollars. Students hope to make this an all-building fundraiser.

“Seeing the images of devastation reinforces how grateful I am for all of the things that I do have and it makes all the little things in life that I stress about seem insignificant,” stated Ms. Felfe.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Who's the boss?

We know for sure Mr. O'Brien's picture will be hanging with the other former directors next year. But who will sit in his chair?

Rumors have been flooding around Vanguard for months that our director Michael O'Brien will not be returning next year. These rumors were confirmed last Monday at Big Team when O'Brien announced his July 1st resignation to the students.

According to the District 214 homepage, Dr. Charles Johns, principal of Rolling Meadows High School, is supposed to fill O'Brien's position for the 2011-2012 school year. I met with Dr. Johns in late January and we discussed his goals and objectives for next school year. He expressed much excitement in joining the Vanguard family. I am waiting to hear back from him.

"Dr. Johns took a new position as Assistant Superintendent in Elmhurst," said Mr. O'Brien. Students and staff are now again wondering, who will be director next year? The district will be holding interviews for the new Director of Alternative Schools. Rumor has it that interviews are being held this week. Some sources say we should have a new director by mid-June.

This back and fourth is taking a toll on staff and students. "As a staff, we were informed in January that Dr. Johns was coming here. We did preparations with him, and now it's lost time. It's sort of frustrating," stated Mr. Heldmann. Also, Ms. O'Neill aired concern Vanguard summer school will be difficult to run without an administrator. Mr. O'Brien will run summer school completion for Vanguard until July 1.

Randy Hawley, Associate Superintendent of Human Resources, was not available for questions. He is currently on vacation.

Even though next year's director is nonexistent at the moment, students and staff are holding their heads high. "I believe this isn't what O'Brien wanted right now, but something good will come of it. He'll be better off in the long run," shared Dr. Koralik.

"Dr. Johns must have taken one look inside, seen the students and bolted," joked student Thad Struggles. In all seriousness, Thad believes everything will work out for the best but he mentioned that he and his family will miss Mr. O'Brien.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Canoe or not canoe, that is the question.

10:30 am

Vanguard's camping trip to Marshall, Indiana was canceled last month due to bad weather. Campers were let down, but Mr. Markos planned the same trip to leave tomorrow morning.

But because of a tornado warning in Indiana, a possible earthquake in Iowa, and more, the trip may not go on.

"As of right now, the trip is still on," says Mr. Markos. He is currently looking for a safe place to camp in any neighboring state. He will keep us updated throughout the day.

9:40 am 5/25

The camping trip was ultimately canceled because of bad weather. No word yet on when or if it will be rescheduled.

1:45 pm 5/25

Instead of going to Indiana, students will attend an all-day local trip during school on Friday. Mr. Markos doesn't know where they will be going yet.

Meet the Staff! 13

Marilyn Medina-Perez is Vanguard’s new social worker. This is her first year and she’s a huge hit with all the students. Ms. Medina-Perez was named Illinois’ 2010 School Social Worker of the Year. Besides her love for chocolate, helping adolescents is her passion.

AMS: What’s your most embarrassing moment?
MMP: I have so many embarrassing moments. I can’t name just one.

AMS: If you could time travel, what year would you go to?
MMP: I would probably go to Europe during the jazz era.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island, what are three things you would bring with you?
MMP: I’d bring my husband, a lighter and chocolate.

AMS: What’s your best high school memory?

MMP: All my friends and I went to Michigan Avenue in our dresses after prom. It was great.

AMS: Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?

MMP: I hope I’ll be considering retirement and focusing on opening my own therapy practice.

AMS: What’s your dugout song?
MMP: “We will rock you” by Queen.

AMS: Who would play you in a movie of your life?
MMP: Penelope Cruz would play me.

AMS: What dance describes you?
MMP: The Salsa and The Tango. They have so much history.

AMS: If you were on death row, what would be your last supper?

MMP: I’d have steak with sweet potato casserole with a double fudge chocolate cake from Portillo’s.

AMS: Do you have Beiber Fever?

MMP: No. He doesn’t draw me.

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer

Reach Out A Hand To Save Lives-By Angie Mazanova

On Sunday, May 2nd, 2011, a horrible tragedy occurred. One of the deadliest tornado's took lives of 90 people. The damage is heartbreaking. Almost everything is lost. And now, these people have nothing. We as a community can give them hope. American Red Cross Association has established many ways of help. The choices stand between donation of money, donation of blood or volunteer work. If we as a family give at least an hour of our time, we can bring life and hope to so many people. The biggest concern isn't even about their houses or their cars. It's about food, water, shelter, love and care. This is our wake up call. Imagine what it would be like to be in those people's shoes. What would it be like to look at life in a different way? What would it feel like to breathe in your first breath of air after going through such a horrifying experience. We can do this together. We can reach out one hand to save the lives of thousands.

Where's Bono? by Eli Martinez

Recently, there was a massive tornado that hit the town of Joplin, Missouri killing 89 people. It was a tragedy that spoke volumes. Houses were reduced to rubble and the whole town was just torn to shreds. It is not only sad to witness the aftermath, but it makes your heart sink. No one deserves to go through any of that. The human race as a species is quite complicated, but there comes a time in life where you have to completely set everything aside and unite for a greater good. I, for one, have values, I stand for something and that is to be the person you possibly can be. It's hard to have hope when everything and everyone around you seems so negative, but there is no reason to ever do so.
While Joplin was being completely destroyed, I had a life-changing experience while working in the rain with a friend. A car stopped, a lady named Susan and her son offered us a ride home. I felt a huge amount of gratitude, I felt like I almost wanted to hug her and cry. I just had to walk in the rain, but could you imagine how those people in Joplin might feel if we could help, even in the slightest way?
I propose we hold a concert. We have so many talented musicians. All the proceeds should benefit the victims of this devastating tornado. I stand for all that is good in the universe. There has to be a difference. Vanguard can make a difference. Something must be done. What do you stand for?

Our hearts are with Joplin by Cris Richardson

The tornado that demolished Joplin and left the majority of its population both grief and poverty stricken was the worst natural disaster the U.S had experienced since the tragedy of hurricane Katrina. Even a hardened reporter was brought to tears by the heart wrenching event. In times like this when a community is stripped of almost everything they held dear what's needed most is kindness and humanity. The storm was reviewed and broadcasted across the nation and as such there shouldn't be anyone not informed. The people may know but most won't go out of their way to help unless it was made convenient enough. I propose a paypal account be made to help fund Joplin reconstruction and aid the survivors. Perhaps we can donate to United Way or the Red Cross. Maybe we could even adopt a family.

Spring Field Trips

Integrated took a trip to "Area 51" in Busse Woods to clean up.

A group of students took a field trip to the Shedd Aquarium to draw, photograph, and create art of the jellyfish in the new exhibit "Jellies."

Sabrina Cuevas, AJ Bays, Lisa Loeffler, and Ms. DeMeo are amazed by the exhibit.

The whole school will be taking a trip to the Brookfield Zoo for the Integrated's endangered species and environment unit on June 7th.

Goodbye, Mr. Stern!

It’s rare when student teachers choose to do their assignment at Vanguard School. Mr. Stern is one of only six in Vanguard’s 15 years, according to Ms. O’Neill. “He’s pretty hardcore,” says Eli Martinez.

New student Paige Fuentes said, “Oh my gosh, I didn’t even realize he was a student teacher. I thought he was always here.” The truth is he’s only been here since January, but it feels like he’s always been a permanent part of the Vanguard family. Stern’s done more than taught classes. He’s organized trips, gone to Treehaven, and even dominated our 3-on-3 basketball tournament in February.

Andy Stern is an English and Education major at U of I at Urbana-Champaign. During his time here, he has taught many English classes either by himself or integrating courses with Ms. O’Neill, Mr. Markos, Ms. DeMeo and Dr. Koralik. He designed an English class about mythology and famous court cases during his time here as well. “I’m really going to miss him. He’s a great teacher,” stated Diana Gonzalez.

Since today is Mr. Stern’s final day here at Vanguard, staff and students gathered in the tech center during team this morning to have cake and say our goodbyes. Student Rachel Reza says, “He was very involved with every student. He interacted with us very well.”

We say goodbye to Mr. Stern with high hopes of seeing him again. “Why is he leaving?” asks Kayla Woodward. “He should come teach here at Vanguard next year.”

Good luck, Mr. Stern!

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Let the shaving begin!

March 17^th wasn’t just St. Patrick’s Day. It was also St. Baldrick’s day.

St. Baldricks Foundation is a non-profit that raises money and awareness for children with cancer. Schools, bars, businesses, and many more take part in this charity by shaving their heads and collecting donations for cancer research.

"It's humbling to know that the work you do on behalf of the St. Baldrick's foundation could ultimately change the course of a child's life," stated Vanguard's coordinator Bobbi Felfle.

Students and staff through out the building gathered in the theater that morning to hear Forest View staff member, Mr. Schwarz, speak on behalf of children around the world battling pediatric cancer. He really opened everyone’s eyes to what a horrible disease cancer is, and what horrific things these small children have to live with on a daily basis. Tears, tension, and applaud filled the room. After all that, the shaving began!

"The only pin I could find was the 'Ask me why I'm bald' pin, not the 'Ask me why my hairline is receding' pin," said Pasta.

Our own Matt Beutel shaved heads along with many other students from Empire Beauty School. Students and staff from around the building flooded through the theatre throughout the day.

"It was really moving to see the sense of community and togetherness on this special day. A real memory maker. Hope we do it every year," said service coordinator Amy O'Neill who shaved her head at the event last year.

Mr. Schwarz speaks to the crowd.

The shaving took off.

Rachel Reza cut off a whopping 6.5 inches of her hair and donated it to another organization, Locks of Love, that makes wigs for kids fighting cancer.

Students whose hair wasn't long enough to donate, still showed support by shaving their hair like Hector Martinez.

Matt Beutel got the honor of shaving Mr. Kain's hair.

Vanguard math teacher, Ms. Gregornik-Garcia, chopped off 6 inches of her mane.

Future staff member Dr. Johns showed his St. Baldrick's spirit.

Jessica Oglesby cut off all her hair, leaving just barely one inch.

The final result. Jessica also served as the chairperson of the event as a service project, along with the super assistance of Ms. Felfle.

Photos by Olivia Gabcova Captions by Annemarie Schaefer

Hoops for Haiti is a success!

Over 45 students competed in Hoops for Haiti last Friday in the field house. This year made history because not only one team won, but three! Over seven hundred dollars will go to Doctors without Borders, a non-profit organization that treats citizens that were affected by natural disasters in Haiti. Johnny Meyers won the fundraising award by collecting over one hundred dollars in donations.
All Vanguard students and staff all met at 1:30 in the gym to watch the championship games. History was made as the three teams combined to make a 5-on-5 exhibition match. They tied by 2:05. Trophies were awarded today in the tech center during big team.

The group!

Mr. Markos, Janet, Thad and Mr. Kain won!
"I just thought it was awesome how no body cared or complained that there wasn't just one champion. It was a very positive day. Every one was there for the right reasons," says Mr. Markos.

Luis, AJ and Mr. Stern: another winning team. They were a "free-agent team", formed just minutes before their first game. "This team gained a following. It was definitely a Cinderella Story. After other team's games were over, they would run over and watch this team play," says Pasta.
Kiahna, Enrique and Rachel were the final winning team.

Allison, Pasta and Kyle rocked their way through the tournament!

Nick, Salaam and Mandy prepare to play.

Ms. DeMeo, Brittany, Matt and Johnny gather before their next game.

Choolwe, Vanessa and Julio put on their game faces.

Lisa, Almir and Ms. McCann were in great spirits.
"Hoops for Haiti was a great experience, even though we didn't even win one game," says Almir.

Photos by Kayla Woodward
Captions by Annemarie Schaefer

Meet the Staff! 12

Mid-February, about 20 Vanguard students and staff, including myself, traveled up to Baraboo, Wisconsin for a three-day educational field trip in the woods. While there, our guide, John Heusinkveld, opened us up the the beauty of Treehaven’s land. Treehaven is located at a satellite campus for the University of Wisconsin-Stephens Point. It’s a winter wonderland of over 1,400 acres.

John has worked for Treehaven for ten years. He says, “I love the outdoors. When I was little, my friends and I would just go and play in the woods. I believe I was predisposed with fascination to the outdoors.” John’s job at Treehaven includes coordinating educational trips such as the one we took, and educating people on the woods by teaching them in the classroom or taking them on different types of tours around the land. “For me, John was a big part of Treehaven. He taught me so much within those three short days. You could tell how passionate he is about his work and the forest,” says Chris Pehm.

John will be recognized with a 214 Distinguished Service Award because of his dedication to

Vanguard, and will be coming down to accept it March 17 at the Board Meeting. Students are invited to attend for the presentation.

Staff members consider John a guest teacher and an honorary member of the Vanguard staff. One staff member said one of the highlights of the yearly trip is getting the chance to spend time with John.

AMS: What’s your most embarrassing moment?
JEH: I don’t embarrass very easily.

AMS: What’s your best high school memory?
JEH: My French class was a great part of my high school career. My teacher really got the class

involved and showed us that learning can be fun. I was also in gymnastics and that was a lot of fun. We went to some pretty big meets.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island what are three things you would bring with you?

JEH: I would bring unlimited food and water, a human companion, and unlimited reading supplies.

AMS: If you could time travel to any year, what year would you go to and why?

JEH: I’d want to go to the year that I was born (1961) to see what the world was like and get a grasp of the people’s perceptions on war, government and environment back then.

AMS: What’s your dugout song?
JEH: Any song by Aerosmith or Van Morrison. They really pumped me up in high school.

AMS: Who would play you in a movie of your life?
JEH: Robin Williams. [Thad agrees]

AMS: If you were on death row what would be your last supper?

JEH: I’d have a Venison back strap braised with olive oil, a thousand peas, and Caverne wine.

AMS: What dance describes you?
JEH: “The Jitter Bug” because I’m always moving until the music is over.

AMS: Do you have Beiber Fever?

JEH: Uh, no. I seem to be immune.

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer

Start Raising Money for Hoops for Haiti

Clean off your Air Jordans, your Chucks, your LA Gears and get ready, because Hoops For Haiti 3 on 3 tournament is in less than two weeks. The challenge will be all day, Friday, February 25^th.

Throughout the years, teachers and students have teamed up to compete in a championship, which raises money for different causes. This year, the money will go to Doctors Without Borders, which is an organization that provides attention to people affected by the natural disaster in Haiti. Students raised over 800 dollars for last year’s tournament. All the funds went to Doctors Without Borders.

Haiti was struck with a massive earthquake last January. They are now battling cholera, hunger, and violence. According to staff, Vanguard wants to continue to support Haiti since so many have already forgotten.

Last year, over 45 students participated by playing, fundraising or scorekeeping. Luke Maj, Sandra Caldera, and David Rosen won the tournament in a very close game. “Our goal this year is to raise more money than we did last year. $900 would be great,” says Mr. Markos.

Bruno Kelava, 20, participated in the tournament three different years, and won every time. Staff is still deliberating on whether or not he should be eligible. “I think I should still be able to play. It will be a good challenge for the younger kids. If they beat me, their self esteem will go up,” says Bruno. His team is still undecided, if he’s allowed to play.

On the contrary, Mr. Markos says that Bruno is up to 5 years older than some students here and that puts them at an unfair advantage. The decision is ultimately up to him, and he is still undecided.

If you want to join the tournament, talk to Mr. Markos. All checks should be made payable to Doctors Without Borders. Students must raise at least $10 to play.

Hope. Hoops. Haiti and Humanity.

Story by Annemarie Schaefer

Meet the Staff 11!

Bobbi Felfle is one of Vanguard’s instructional assistant. She recently graduated from Roosevelt University with plans to be a history or special ed. teacher. Ms. Felfle takes on a lot of special projects like Market Day which generates a lot of monies for our Student Activities Account. Ms. Felfle tough exterior is balanced by her warmth and attentiveness to students’ needs.

AMS: What’s your most embarrassing moment?

RFF: This one time, I was getting a newspaper out of the machine and the zipper of my coat got stuck. People thought I was trying to steal a newspaper.

AMS: If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?

RFF: I would go to 45 BC because I would want to spend time with Julius Caesar. He’s my historical hero and I don’t believe he was a tyrant.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island, what are three things you would bring?

RFF: I would bring a lifetime supply of fresh water, my family, and music.

AMS: What’s your best high school memory?

RFF: Graduation because I transferred schools when I moved to South America and I was so far behind that people never thought that I would graduate.

AMS: Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?
RFF: I see myself being able to spend six months out of every year traveling to different places in the world.

AMS: What’s your dream job?

RFF: Editor of Vogue because I love fashion, I love every thing that goes into being a princess, and I think vogue is at the top of that feeding chain.

AMS: What’s your dug out song?

RFF: “Unwell” by Matchbox 20. They’re just fun. I like them.

AMS: Who would play you in a movie of your life?
RFF: Jennifer Lopez.

AMS: What dance describes you?

RFF: The Waltz describes me because it’s elegant.

AMS: If you were on death row, what would be your last supper?
RFF: Medium rare steak, garlic mashed potatoes, sweet corn on the side, chocolate mocha ice cream, and Merlot.

AMS: Do you have Beiber fever?

RFF: No, but I have Donny fever. (Osmond)

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer

Meet the Staff! 10

Ms. O’Neill and Dr. Koralik will be working with a student teacher, Mr. Andy Stern, this semester. After graduating from Highland Park High School, Mr. Stern attended (and is still attending) the University of Illinois-Champaign. Before he got his interview here at Vanguard, he says he never really thought about being a teacher at an alternative school but he really enjoys it. Be sure to introduce yourself!

AMS: What’s your most embarrassing moment?

AJS: I was at an overnight camp once, and had to do a skit with my friend. I had to sing “What Dreams Made Of” by Hilary Duff in rhinestone jeans.

AMS: If you could travel in time, what year would you go to?

AJS: I’d go back to the “wild west days” because I like riding horses.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island, what would you bring with you?

AJS: I’d bring food, books, and a cell phone.

AMS: What’s your best high school memory?
AJS: Going to my friend’s summer homes in Wisconsin.

AMS: Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?
AJS: I see myself married with kids, and teaching.

AMS: What’s your dream job?

AJS: I want to be a beach bum. I would love to sit in the sun, relax, and not have to worry

about anything. The real world is hard and I’m starting to realize that.

AMS: What dance describes you?
AJS: The tango. It’s suave and romantic.

AMS: What’s your dug out song?

AJS: “Right Now” by Van Halen. It pumps me up.

AMS: If you were on death row, what would be your last super
AJS: A deep dish pepperoni pizza from Due’s.

AMS: Dou you have Beiber fever?
AJS: No. It bothers me that I even know what that is.

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer

Meet the Staff! 9

Michael Koralik, widely known as "Baby Koralik" here at Vanguard, is one of our beloved substitute teachers. He studied English at University of Iowa, and while looking for a teaching job, he's temporarily subbing. Koralik's days here consist of pretending to be his father. If you see him, congratulate him on his engagement!


AMS: What's your most embarrassing moment?
MJK: In seventh grade, I accidentally farted on a desk-chair. (That's like farting off a church pew.) The whole class and teacher turned around and stared at me.

AMS: If you could time travel, what year would you go to?
MJK: I'd go to 1992 to watch the Bulls win the 2nd championship against the Trailblazers.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island, what are three things you would bring with you?
MJK: I'd bring a knife, some juice, and beef jerky.

AMS: What's your best high school memory?
MJK: Winning the park district basketball championship. It was a lot of fun.

AMS: Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?
MJK: Being a substitute teacher with six illegitimate children and a pet pony named Rodger who is addicted to cigarettes.

AMS: What is your dream job?
MJK: Writing for the Çhicago Tribune's sports section.

AMS: What dance describes you?
MJK: The Distribute. It's a long story...

AMS: What's your dug out song?
MJK: "Teenage Dream" by Katy Perry. It gets my engines running.

AMS: What actor would play you in a movie of your life?
MJK: Verne Troyer. (Mini-me from Austin Powers.)

AMS: If you were on death row, what would you have for your last supper?
MJK: I'd have chicken enchilladas.

AMS: Do you have Beiber Fever?
MJK: NO! He's a bum.

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer

Goodbye, Bobby!

Bobby Isaacson will be graduating today. In honor of him leaving, Vanguard is throwing a Good-bye Party in the field house. They will be playing dodge ball. It's going on right now! Any one is welcome to join.

Meet the Staff! 8

Tedd Markos is Vanguard’s health, Dr. Oz and PE teacher. Markos is currently teaching a new class this tour called Social Health Club, a course also cleverly referred to as Awesome High School Musical featuring Cats. Markos coordinates most camping trips and he said he can’t wait for Treehaven next month. His relaxed attire inspired today’s Track Day. What color tracksuit do you think he will wear on Monday? Please vote on today’s blog poll.

AMS: What is your most embarrassing moment?

TLM: I’m color blind, and in first grade a drew a picture of a monkey. I drew trees on it too, but accidentally made the leaves brown and the trunk green. I didn’t notice, and gave it to my teacher. I thought it was awesome. She even put it on the board. But then she went on to say how awful it was.

AMS: If you could time travel, what year would you go to?

TLM: I’d go 100 years in the future to see if the Cubs ever win the World Series and to see what the status of the human race is.

AMS: If you were stranded on a tropical island what are 3 things you would bring with you?

TLM: I’d bring a power generator, a jacuzzi, and a hatchet.

AMS: What is your best high school memory?

TLM: Playing hockey for my school all four years. It was really fun and competitive.

AMS: What’s your dream job?

TLM: I’d love to run a Greek restaurant, and teach surfing lessons in Costa Rica.

AMS: What’s your dugout song?

TLM: Panama - Van Halen because I like it.

AMS: Who would play you in a movie of your life?

TLM: Joel McHale. (The guy from the Soup and Community.)

AMS: What dance describes you?

TLM: Soulja Boy.

AMS: What would be your last supper if you were on death row?

TLM: Gyros.

AMS: Do you have Beiber Fever?

TLM: No. I appreciate his talents (drumming, singing, humanitarian), but I’m not fond of his

style of music or hair.

Interview by Annemarie Schaefer