Bryan Ochoa, Sophomore Class Publicity Officer 2019-2020
The Initial Letter
This year of high school I am going to be a Sophomore, so coming into high school my initial thought was “I’m scared.” I was scared of the work the stress that school could cause. Then I thought to myself, “What are you actually scared of.” Judgement and imperfection. After a bit of thought I came back to my mentality of “Be Positive.” I then became excited for the school year. I was actually very excited. I was excited to meet so many people, be apart of Leadership, and have a genuine good time. I was trying so many things and I believe that I am up to the challenge. I may not always be ready but I must respect the unexpected and work through it. This year I expect to excel academically, but I also expect to get at least second place in most events. I aim to get first place, but I’m kind of a realist, and think the juniors are going to win most events. This school year I expect to get more students involved and a lot of that relies on me as a Publicity Officer. I expect growth. For me to grow as a person. Writing this I am still 14, but I’ve acted mature. I say acted because I don’t know if I’m actually mature. People have always called me mature and think I’m older than I am, and because of that I don’t know if my maturity is an act. Will I grow out of what may be an act and actually be mature? Maybe I might not even grow as a person but in height. Out of this program I expect to be put on a better path. A path that can lead to success. To happiness. The program isn’t automatically going to make me successful or happy, but it can help me get there. With Leadership I will make some happy memories and hope to make more in my lifetime. I don’t expect a lot, but no matter what I will “Be Positive.”
Favorite Quotes Part 1, Page 2
"Take a moment to remind yourself, to take a moment to find yourself." - Steven Universe
Sometimes you need to be mindful of yourself. I am a firm believer in making yourself happy. It's very easy to get consumed by one's own thoughts and a person sometimes just need time to find themselves. In this day and age teenagers specifically aren’t taking care of themselves. People aren’t allowing themselves to take a break. A break to tell ourselves, “Hey I’m struggling and that's okay.” Everyone should take a moment to remind themselves, to take a moment to find themselves. Personally I think of this quote almost every single time my thoughts get too loud and start swarming. I’ll think of this quote and remind myself to “take care of thyself.”
"Let me encourage you to get up every day and focus on what you do have in life. Be thankful for the blessings of the little things, even when you don't get what you expect." - Victoria Osteen
Life may not give you what you want but you have to respect the unexpected and look past it. To look at what you have and not what you don’t This quote serves as a personal reminder. A reminder to appreciate what I have in life. To start my day knowing that I live a blessed life. I have a phone to be able to work on this, and I go to school which some people can’t even say. When people need advice I’ll send them this quote to remind them to stay humble. Being humble is important and to appreciate what you have in life is also important. Be grateful for what you have because gratitude is an incredible blessing to have.
“You have conflicts in your life. And really, life is about your resilience and your ability to go through your life and all of the ups and downs with a positive attitude." - Jennifer Hyman.
Life is hard. As a teenager, even I understand that life can be difficult. To get through life, I believe that you need a positive attitude. Positivity doesn’t get rid of the hardships in life, but it helps you handle the hardships. You have to stay strong in life to succeed in life. If a person is not resilient then that Paterson will struggle. Struggle with failure, rejection and vulnerability. Three things that are important in life. A positive mindset is what has helped me get through life. The mindset that it’s okay to fail as long as I do better the next time is what allows me to handle failure. The positive attitude where one rejection does not define me, but should encourage me to work harder. The thinking where emotions are in fact okay, and that vulnerability is not a weakness. The amazing ability to go through the ups and downs of life with a positive mindset, attitude, and thinking.
Sometimes you need to be mindful of yourself. I am a firm believer in making yourself happy. It's very easy to get consumed by one's own thoughts and a person sometimes just need time to find themselves. In this day and age teenagers specifically aren’t taking care of themselves. People aren’t allowing themselves to take a break. A break to tell ourselves, “Hey I’m struggling and that's okay.” Everyone should take a moment to remind themselves, to take a moment to find themselves. Personally I think of this quote almost every single time my thoughts get too loud and start swarming. I’ll think of this quote and remind myself to “take care of thyself.”
"Let me encourage you to get up every day and focus on what you do have in life. Be thankful for the blessings of the little things, even when you don't get what you expect." - Victoria Osteen
Life may not give you what you want but you have to respect the unexpected and look past it. To look at what you have and not what you don’t This quote serves as a personal reminder. A reminder to appreciate what I have in life. To start my day knowing that I live a blessed life. I have a phone to be able to work on this, and I go to school which some people can’t even say. When people need advice I’ll send them this quote to remind them to stay humble. Being humble is important and to appreciate what you have in life is also important. Be grateful for what you have because gratitude is an incredible blessing to have.
“You have conflicts in your life. And really, life is about your resilience and your ability to go through your life and all of the ups and downs with a positive attitude." - Jennifer Hyman.
Life is hard. As a teenager, even I understand that life can be difficult. To get through life, I believe that you need a positive attitude. Positivity doesn’t get rid of the hardships in life, but it helps you handle the hardships. You have to stay strong in life to succeed in life. If a person is not resilient then that Paterson will struggle. Struggle with failure, rejection and vulnerability. Three things that are important in life. A positive mindset is what has helped me get through life. The mindset that it’s okay to fail as long as I do better the next time is what allows me to handle failure. The positive attitude where one rejection does not define me, but should encourage me to work harder. The thinking where emotions are in fact okay, and that vulnerability is not a weakness. The amazing ability to go through the ups and downs of life with a positive mindset, attitude, and thinking.
Quote Part 2, Page 3
"Let me tell you a story..." Not necessarily a quote but it gets the message I want to talk about across. When I hear this I imagine myself telling a story. I want to be able to tell people my story and that motivates me to accomplish so much more. "Let me tell you the story of what was the mess of homecoming." This quote can go so many ways and that what makes it perfect. Let me tell you a story, can have so many meaning but is up to a person to determine that meaning. I have a story to tell and I plan on sharing that story in my lifetime. To me this quote means empowerment but also in a sense storytelling. Every person's story can empower at least a single person. It doesn't have to empower an entire population but without a doubt it will empower someone in the
world. I plan to do that with my own story. Storytelling is a way to pass on knowledge and I think that's important. With storytelling you can pass on knowledge with a twist on it. You can make the story as serious as you want or have fun with it. As a leader this quote makes me want to do more and it can impact the future of students by motivating them. TO motivate them and create their story. Sometimes a story is thrust upon a person, but not always. A person must strive to make their own story and tell that story. I want to motivate people to share their story and their experiences. We all have a story, a story to share. "Now let me tell you a story of a kid, who despite everything life has thrown at them, still fights and remains positive."
world. I plan to do that with my own story. Storytelling is a way to pass on knowledge and I think that's important. With storytelling you can pass on knowledge with a twist on it. You can make the story as serious as you want or have fun with it. As a leader this quote makes me want to do more and it can impact the future of students by motivating them. TO motivate them and create their story. Sometimes a story is thrust upon a person, but not always. A person must strive to make their own story and tell that story. I want to motivate people to share their story and their experiences. We all have a story, a story to share. "Now let me tell you a story of a kid, who despite everything life has thrown at them, still fights and remains positive."
Goals Part 1, Page 4
Goal 1.) One of my goals this year regarding Leadership is to raise my classes Spirit. To encourage people to participate in events. Last year my classes spirit was terrible. This year hopefully that changes because Freshman year is usually always terrible. This year is going to be different, and this year the Sophomores are going to have the most spirit.
Goal 2.) My second goal regarding Leadership is to win Homecoming. This year is the Sophomores year. Homecoming is going along amazing and we have a set plan for basically everything. I hear that Homecoming was terrible last year four class and that’s going to change this year. The Sophomores are a sneak attack waiting to happen and no one knows when the Sophomores will attack. Homecoming the goal is to get first place and it will happen.
Goal 3.) My first short term goal is to be Valedictorian for the Class of 2022. I will strive to succeed and I will become Valedictorian. I might struggle along the way but Valedictorian is something I want to achieve. To be a Gay Mexican man as Valedictorian would be incredible. Education is important and I want to show that being educated isn’t only a white person thing, but that everyone can be educated. If I become Valedictorian I would be representing to groups of Minorities and I want to do that.
Goal 4.) My second short term goal in life is to be able to apply to any college in the world, and be accepted. That may not be a realistic goal but a goal I have. I will strive for my success and to be able to say “I can go to any college in the world” would be a step forward in my success. College is a huge thing for me and I want to go to college. Applying to college can be scary but I want to be able to apply to any college in the world and be accepted.
Goal 5.) My first long term goal in life is to be financially free. Kate Villegas taught what financially free was, and as soon as I heard it I knew that financially free it what I wanted in life. To be able to have enough money to spend without worrying about how much food costs. To be able to travel and not think “okay I can only spend money on food this week and nothing else.” I live a poor life where food costs are stressful and I’ll starve myself to avoid asking for money. I don’t want my kids to experience the same thing so being financially free is one of my main goals in life.
Goal 6.) My second goal in life is to have a family. I’ve always wanted a family and I want to have one, and to be able to support that family. I don’t know if I want to get married because marriage is a money drainer that is unnecessary. Who thought of the idea of getting the government involved in love. I would much rather buy a ring and just call the person I love my husband. I will adopt kids after being “married” and take care of those kids. I will most likely adopt older kids because the way the system works for older kids is terrible. I will have a family and I will work towards that.
Goals Part 2, Page 5
Magazine Cover Part 1, Page 6
Magazine Article Part 2, Page 7
Bryan Ochoa is the Sophomore Class Publicity officer at Ripon Highschool. He is a gay mexican male, 15 years old, and is 5.4’. He has 7 siblings, 2 older half sisters, 3 older brothers, and 2 younger half brothers. Bryan himself is a weird character. At times energetic and other times tired Bryan has drastic mood swings to say the least. He can sometimes be described as too positive, and when Bryan hears that he is being too nice he feels bad. He is just trying his best to the nicest person he can. Bryan is athletic, intelligent, and sometimes creative. He doesn't understand how to express his creativity. Bryan Ochoa has been convinced by friends to give wrestling a try, but in the spring he will for sure play Boys Volleyball. Bryan loves sports despite popular belief. He is a runner and grew up playing soccer. A fun and weird fact about Bryan is that he can’t say certain words in the English language that most probably could. Contemplatively is a perfect example of a word that Bryan is incapable of saying correctly. Bryan thinks that it is okay to mess up a few words since he can speak both Spanish and English. Being Mexican is huge part of Bryan Ochoa and he hopes to encourage others to be proud of their culture. That a person is more than a stereotype and can accomplish great things. So far he has learned a lot in the leadership class and would like to keep on learning in his leadership class. One such thing that the leadership class has learned is that Vulnerability is not a Weakness. A concept that sounds easy but when put into practice can be difficult. Most people grew up thinking that being vulnerable meant that they were weak, but through the wonderful work of Brene Brown Bryan is learning that vulnerability can actually show courage and strength. Bryan has had many spiritual awakenings in his journey of vulnerability. Spiritual Awakenings can also be defined as mental breakdowns. His favorite quote is not even a quote at all, but a song lyric. “Take a moment to remind yourself to take a moment to find yourself.” Bryan feels as though that people aren't taking the time to take care of themselves. He is guilty of doing such, at times, but he still tries to have a positive attitude through it all. He hopes to accomplish all sorts of things within his year of leadership. So far he has made made a class instagram, which he and his fellow officers have control over. The class Instagram has been used mainly to publicize school events and to encourage the sophomore class to be spirited. With Homecoming week the class instagram was mainly used to publicize important information. Bryan was a little upset at the fact that the sophomores had gotten third place, but he is proud of his class nonetheless. When the sophomores had gotten first in both the lip sync and the float, Bryan was extremely joyous. He says that his face hurt from smiling too much and that he just couldn’t stop smiling.. He was so proud of the people that worked hard and proud of his class. Bryan thinks that since the sophomores got third place in homecoming and lost by only two points, then his class can definitely win Winterfest. With the theme of Fantasia and the dress up as Disney, Bryan believes in his sophomore class. The sophomore class also has the disney club to help them out. In leadership Bryan has mainly done a good job in publicizing, especially to his specific class. He talks to all types of people and because of that he was able to get important information out. Bryan’s main goal in his highschool career is to be valedictorian. He wants to show people that they can accomplish great things despite their sexual orientation and their race/ethnicity.
Role Model Page 8
Someone that I don’t necessarily admire but that has changed my life for the better is Trinity Townsend. She is a person that helped me realize my true self. Trinity is the first person I came out to. She was very accepting and helped me. She helped me be proud of who I was and helped me come out to others. That I shouldn’t be afraid of who I was but it still was a whole process. She was like my best friend in seventh grade and we used to be so close. Life happened and we got distant. When we got distant I realized who I could rely on when it came to friends. I still say hi to her when I see her and I will still be nice to her whenever I can. She’s doing so much better now and I’m proud of her for it. She affected my life for the better and I’m glad to have known her the way I did.
Inner Animal Page 9
My inner animal would be a bunny. A bunny is always full of energy and can’t stop moving. A bunny is an animal that most people love and enjoy being around. A bunny makes people happy without even trying. Just by giving bunnies a hug, people will be happy. I believe that a bunny would describe me perfectly. I’m always full of energy and try to be a person whose company people will enjoy. I don’t feel like I need to try to make people happy, I just do. I always give people hugs to make them feel better and most people feel better after petting a cute bunny. I even wore a bunny outfit for Halloween. What better animal to describe me than something that I dressed up as.
The Best Things About Me Part 1, Page 10
The Best Things About Me Part 2, Page 11
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, senta'íta dando palmas
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, no hay nadie más
Por la noche, la sali'a del Bagdad
Pelo negro, ojo' oscuro'
Bonita pero apena'
Senta'ita, cabizbaja dando palmas
Mientras a su alrededor
Pasaban, la miraban
La miraban sin ver na'
Solita en el infierno
En el infierno está atrapa'
Senta'íta, las manos las juntaba
Que al compás por bulerías
Parecía que rezaba
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
De las luces
Sale un ángel que cayó
Tiene una marca en el alma
Pero ella no se la vio
Senta'ita, al cielo quie' rezarle
Prenda'ita de sus males
Que Dios tendrá que cobrarle
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, senta'íta dando palmas
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, no hay nadie más
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
This song is called BAGDAD by ROSALÍA. It is about a woman trapped in hell and how she will burn. How there is no one to help her and she prays to something. I feel as though this song is all about me because sometimes I feel that no one will help. In the song an angel comes down to the lady. The people around me are my angles. They help me in a way I couldn’t imagine. The song doesn’t give a description of me except for the part where it says Bonita pero apena’. Beautiful but Sad.
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, senta'íta dando palmas
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, no hay nadie más
Por la noche, la sali'a del Bagdad
Pelo negro, ojo' oscuro'
Bonita pero apena'
Senta'ita, cabizbaja dando palmas
Mientras a su alrededor
Pasaban, la miraban
La miraban sin ver na'
Solita en el infierno
En el infierno está atrapa'
Senta'íta, las manos las juntaba
Que al compás por bulerías
Parecía que rezaba
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
De las luces
Sale un ángel que cayó
Tiene una marca en el alma
Pero ella no se la vio
Senta'ita, al cielo quie' rezarle
Prenda'ita de sus males
Que Dios tendrá que cobrarle
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, senta'íta dando palmas
Y se va a quemar, si sigue ahí
Las llamas van al cielo a morir
Ya no hay nadie más por ahí
No hay nadie más, no hay nadie más
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
Junta las palmas y las separa
This song is called BAGDAD by ROSALÍA. It is about a woman trapped in hell and how she will burn. How there is no one to help her and she prays to something. I feel as though this song is all about me because sometimes I feel that no one will help. In the song an angel comes down to the lady. The people around me are my angles. They help me in a way I couldn’t imagine. The song doesn’t give a description of me except for the part where it says Bonita pero apena’. Beautiful but Sad.
Homecoming Activities Part 1, Page 12
Homecoming Activities Part 2, Page 13
What I Like Best About Being a Member of Leadership Part 1, Page 14
This year in the Leadership Program I’ve made a lot of great memories. This is my first year doing Leadership and I enjoy it greatly. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into but Leadership is crazy and I live for that kind of crazy.
One amazing memory that I have of the Leadership Program is Core Camp. I was going somewhere with people I didn’t know that well and for four days. I’m Hispanic, I can’t even be out late let alone sleep somewhere else. I’m very glad I went to Core Camp because it was so crazy. My favorite part was when all the schools hyped each other up in the chants. Either that or the Dance that was held there because I’m the type to love parties.
Another great memory of Leadership was Homecoming. There was pats of Homecoming that I enjoyed better than others but it was still an amazing experience. The competition was real and that made it all the better. First Place for the Lip Sync and First Place for the Float. There were literally sweat blood and tears put into all of those and all of our efforts paid off. Homecoming was incredible and a bonding experience for the sophomore class as a whole.
My absolute favorite memory of Leadership involves the people. If I didn’t have My Sophomore Officer Team then it would be an entirely different experience. I appreciate them so much and they are all incredible. The three of them are what my leadership experience revolves around. The tears we shared, the jokes we laughed, and the stress of it all. The sophomore officer team are my favorite and make me have such fond memories of leadership. Like when Avery got Lost, or Naomi being called Momo, Emma and her crying streak, and me being the ghetto gay biker that has a motorcycle (Inside Jokes).
All in all Leadership has been an amazing thing for me and impacted my life in such a positive way.
One amazing memory that I have of the Leadership Program is Core Camp. I was going somewhere with people I didn’t know that well and for four days. I’m Hispanic, I can’t even be out late let alone sleep somewhere else. I’m very glad I went to Core Camp because it was so crazy. My favorite part was when all the schools hyped each other up in the chants. Either that or the Dance that was held there because I’m the type to love parties.
Another great memory of Leadership was Homecoming. There was pats of Homecoming that I enjoyed better than others but it was still an amazing experience. The competition was real and that made it all the better. First Place for the Lip Sync and First Place for the Float. There were literally sweat blood and tears put into all of those and all of our efforts paid off. Homecoming was incredible and a bonding experience for the sophomore class as a whole.
My absolute favorite memory of Leadership involves the people. If I didn’t have My Sophomore Officer Team then it would be an entirely different experience. I appreciate them so much and they are all incredible. The three of them are what my leadership experience revolves around. The tears we shared, the jokes we laughed, and the stress of it all. The sophomore officer team are my favorite and make me have such fond memories of leadership. Like when Avery got Lost, or Naomi being called Momo, Emma and her crying streak, and me being the ghetto gay biker that has a motorcycle (Inside Jokes).
All in all Leadership has been an amazing thing for me and impacted my life in such a positive way.
A Reflection of a Peer in Leadership Page 15
Emma Phelps has been an amazing peer and friend. She is always willing to help in Leadership and outside of the Leadership class. During homecoming it was her house that the float was located. Emma is innovative and is always coming up with creative ideas. During Winterfest Emma was coming up with some amazing ideas. Whenever I ask Emma for help she is always willing to do so. She deserves to be recognized for her kindness and compassion. Her personality can make most people smile and makes people want to work with her. There’s not a time that Emma is selfish not in the slightest. Except when she doesn’t share food but I respect that decision.
RHS PRIDE Page 16
RHS Pride Page 17
What I Love To Do... Part 1, Page 18
Most of my time is spent at school but I enjoy other things too. I love playing volleyball. Volleyball is one of my favorite sports and it makes me happy. Another thing that I find I enjoy doing is wrestling. It’s my first year doing it but I’m enjoying it so far. However, I need to have more mental strength to better myself for wrestling. I also love playing video games. I grew up playing video games with my older brothers. One of my favorite video games at the moment is Super Smash Bros and I’ve had every version of it since it’s first release. I also enjoy watching anime. Again something I grew up on and genuinely enjoy. An anime I’ve known all my life is Naruto, which is an incredibly good anime. Listening to music is my favorite thing in the world, because it helps me calm myself.
Letter To Parents Page 19
Thank you for everything that you both have done. You guys try your hardest and I know that, but it still is hard. I'm so happy that both of you came to the U.S. for a better chance at life. Dad I know that you're trying, I really do. I thank you for that. I know we have our differences but you still say you love me despite it all. We actually had a conversation on me being gay for once, instead of brushing it off. I do miss you despite everything. Mom thank you for everything. I know its confusing for you but I'm growing up. I do appreciate everything you do. I wish you didn't have to work such long hours but I know you have to do what must be done. Both of you have have a trust in me and I appreciate it so much. I don't ever want to let you both down. I try my best but I wish it felt like you guys cared. I've always been the smartest so I guess my excellence in school doesn't mean a lot. You guys have your priorities now and I have my own. We don't see each other hardly every but that's okay. That's life. I've always been able to take care of myself and I always will, so don't every worry about me. You have better things to worry about and I understand that. Plus I have my brothers and they're there for more. Mom I know I'm super busy so thank you for putting up with it. Dad thanks for doing your best. To both of you thank you for trying, I know you tried your hardest.
Your True Legacy Page 20
Dear Future Sophomore Class Publicity Officer,
I already know that the amazing person that is going to be the sophomore class publicity officer is the one and only Jaydin Kroutil. I want to start by saying that Jaydin, you are an incredibly kind person. You’re definitely one of the sweetest people in the leadership class. You are always willing to help others and that is an amazing quality especially as a leader. You’re incredibly bubbly and people are drawn towards you, and as a publicity officer I think that's perfect.
As you may already know, a publicity officer’s job is to raise awareness of events going on at Ripon High. An officer must promote spirit especially among your classes. My advice to you is to talk to everyone. Don’t just stick to your usual group or then you’ll never be able to build a connection with your class. By talking to people you’re essentially giving them a reason to dress up. I know from experience that just by telling people that there’s an upcoming spirit day already increases the chances of people dressing up. Also encourage your friends to be super spirits with you. You have to set an example as a leader in spirit. If people see you dress up they are more inclined to dress up as well. The definition of a leader is to set an example and by dressing up you are doing just that. Also if you can’t go all out wear the minimum and if people ask say something along the lines of “I can’t always dress up but I’m still going to be spirited.” That way people will also be encouraged to at least wear the minimum and still get your spirit points. Also as a class officer get items that go with each spirit day, or at least your own spirit day. The sophomores bought all sorts of items to give out so more people can have spirit points. Talk to other people and ask if they have items they are willing to share. Most of the sophomores' points were earned because of class spirit. We did this by getting clothes and sharing it with other people. I had to wear a women's small shirt and I don’t regret it in the slightest. Each person counts. In fact for one of the spirit days the sophomores got second by only 0.1. So in general talk to people and get spirited. Also make posters and flyers because they do in fact help. Ask Morty to print out flyers for you, and I use Canva to make all my flyers. For poster making, also ask Morty so you can set a date after school, or even just walk in and tell her you need to make posters. You do need a teacher present, usually your class advisor, to make those posters.
I also want to talk to you about Spirit Bomb. I had no one to guide me through spirit bombs since it felt like no one knew what they were. I had only a vague idea of what it was and never acted upon my own idea. So i would like to say never be afraid to act upon your own ideas. A spirit bomb is where you show the staff love and appreciation. This is mainly done by door decorating. If you think back to the holiday door decorating it is similar to that. However you want to do it is up to you entirely. Next you will have plenty of people willing to help you and that know what they are doing. Something I wish I had when it came to spirit bombs. Morty mentioned this to me when I was discussing Spirit bombs with her but you can fill out a P.O. to buy an item to hang on the staff members door. Just a little something to be more creative and unique. Spirit Bombs all come down to how you want to do it, but know that I and many more people will be there to help.
Jaydin I know you will do absolutely a-freaking-mazing next year. The students will love who you are and be encouraged to be spirited. Be creative and have fun being the sophomore class publicity officer. Memories are just waiting to happen. And me being the person I am Stay Positive throughout everything.
I already know that the amazing person that is going to be the sophomore class publicity officer is the one and only Jaydin Kroutil. I want to start by saying that Jaydin, you are an incredibly kind person. You’re definitely one of the sweetest people in the leadership class. You are always willing to help others and that is an amazing quality especially as a leader. You’re incredibly bubbly and people are drawn towards you, and as a publicity officer I think that's perfect.
As you may already know, a publicity officer’s job is to raise awareness of events going on at Ripon High. An officer must promote spirit especially among your classes. My advice to you is to talk to everyone. Don’t just stick to your usual group or then you’ll never be able to build a connection with your class. By talking to people you’re essentially giving them a reason to dress up. I know from experience that just by telling people that there’s an upcoming spirit day already increases the chances of people dressing up. Also encourage your friends to be super spirits with you. You have to set an example as a leader in spirit. If people see you dress up they are more inclined to dress up as well. The definition of a leader is to set an example and by dressing up you are doing just that. Also if you can’t go all out wear the minimum and if people ask say something along the lines of “I can’t always dress up but I’m still going to be spirited.” That way people will also be encouraged to at least wear the minimum and still get your spirit points. Also as a class officer get items that go with each spirit day, or at least your own spirit day. The sophomores bought all sorts of items to give out so more people can have spirit points. Talk to other people and ask if they have items they are willing to share. Most of the sophomores' points were earned because of class spirit. We did this by getting clothes and sharing it with other people. I had to wear a women's small shirt and I don’t regret it in the slightest. Each person counts. In fact for one of the spirit days the sophomores got second by only 0.1. So in general talk to people and get spirited. Also make posters and flyers because they do in fact help. Ask Morty to print out flyers for you, and I use Canva to make all my flyers. For poster making, also ask Morty so you can set a date after school, or even just walk in and tell her you need to make posters. You do need a teacher present, usually your class advisor, to make those posters.
I also want to talk to you about Spirit Bomb. I had no one to guide me through spirit bombs since it felt like no one knew what they were. I had only a vague idea of what it was and never acted upon my own idea. So i would like to say never be afraid to act upon your own ideas. A spirit bomb is where you show the staff love and appreciation. This is mainly done by door decorating. If you think back to the holiday door decorating it is similar to that. However you want to do it is up to you entirely. Next you will have plenty of people willing to help you and that know what they are doing. Something I wish I had when it came to spirit bombs. Morty mentioned this to me when I was discussing Spirit bombs with her but you can fill out a P.O. to buy an item to hang on the staff members door. Just a little something to be more creative and unique. Spirit Bombs all come down to how you want to do it, but know that I and many more people will be there to help.
Jaydin I know you will do absolutely a-freaking-mazing next year. The students will love who you are and be encouraged to be spirited. Be creative and have fun being the sophomore class publicity officer. Memories are just waiting to happen. And me being the person I am Stay Positive throughout everything.
Do's and Don'ts List Page 21
DO: Plan in advance, this could be weeks in advance or even months
DO: have back up plans, at least 2 of them
DO: communicate with your team, a group chat is always helpful and meet up with them once in a while.
DO: Have a lot of meeting with your class advisor, they help out a ton and know what they're doing
DO: Be Extra, go all out. This applies to decorations, dress up days, and everything in general
DO: Buy items for your class to wear, I used my own money for this since it was a last minute purchase and needed to get done
DONT: BE afraid to be vocal. Express your ideas and concerns
DONT: Procrastinate, things turn up way faster than expected.
DONT: Think everything will go right the first time, you must be able to adapt to things
DONT: Let only leadership do all the work, get your class involved. Sometimes it is better to keep the work to yourselves, Winter Formal decorating was only the class officer with the exception of putting everything away. Ask people for help, homecoming.
DONT: Forget important dates, always use a planner/calendar or ask people if you have something coming up
DO: have back up plans, at least 2 of them
DO: communicate with your team, a group chat is always helpful and meet up with them once in a while.
DO: Have a lot of meeting with your class advisor, they help out a ton and know what they're doing
DO: Be Extra, go all out. This applies to decorations, dress up days, and everything in general
DO: Buy items for your class to wear, I used my own money for this since it was a last minute purchase and needed to get done
DONT: BE afraid to be vocal. Express your ideas and concerns
DONT: Procrastinate, things turn up way faster than expected.
DONT: Think everything will go right the first time, you must be able to adapt to things
DONT: Let only leadership do all the work, get your class involved. Sometimes it is better to keep the work to yourselves, Winter Formal decorating was only the class officer with the exception of putting everything away. Ask people for help, homecoming.
DONT: Forget important dates, always use a planner/calendar or ask people if you have something coming up
The Contact List Page 22
Events 22, Michelle K.
202 E. Main Street, Ripon, Ca
(209) 522-5969
Sounds in Motion, Maliakekaimanuhia Kailiponi
931 10th Street, Modesto, Ca
(209) 522-5999
My Little Balloon Co. Denise S.
144 Woodrow Ave, Modest, Ca
(209)524-2882
202 E. Main Street, Ripon, Ca
(209) 522-5969
Sounds in Motion, Maliakekaimanuhia Kailiponi
931 10th Street, Modesto, Ca
(209) 522-5999
My Little Balloon Co. Denise S.
144 Woodrow Ave, Modest, Ca
(209)524-2882
The Professional Page 24
Something that was discussed in the class was communication. Communication is a very important skill that we as leaders must have. A leader must have a proper understanding of communication to actually lead. Unless a person is willing to communicate then their ideas will never be heard. Communication is key in everything leadership. From event planning to simply talking communication is important. Communication must go both ways. If a person tries to communicate an idea or concept to you, make sure you know what it is that person is discussing. If you don't then communicate with that person so you can get a better understanding. To put it simply if there is no communication things go wrong. Another key skill we've learned is vulnerability. To be vulnerable is to be comfortable with your peers. A good leader must be vulnerable to excel. If you are not comfortable saying "I need help" then how is a person going to help. TO be vulnerable is to share your opinions with others even if it is uncomfortable for you. To accept failure even though you don't like it. To be vulnerable is to take a risk even through the discomfort of it all. If you are able to be vulnerable then you can also connect with others better. Vulnerability gives a better connection to others and lets you work even better with each other. TO be vulnerable is a key concept in Leadership. With things like Brene Brown we are always discussing vulnerability. Both Communication and Vulnerability are very important to being a leader.
Change Page 25
I honestly believe that I've come a lone way from the beginning of the year. It was my first year in the Leadership Program and I learned a lot. In the beginning I needed a lot of help to be honest, but I did come a long way. I had a big position as one of the the class officers and I learned a lot. I did struggle through with my own personal problems. Those problems did hold me back a bit but with an amazing officer team I did my best. I didn't get frustrated since I'm the positive person everybody knows and loves. A change in the class that should occur is more team building/bonding. The class has a good environment but there was this distance boundaries everyone had. It felt like the there was no bond between the class. I don't know if that it's just me that thinks that but to work well together that has to be some sort of connection at the very least. A better environment so we can all bond as a family. Obviously people have their preferences with who they want to be with, but a everyone should be able to hold at learn one decent conversation with each other. A good environment is where people thrive and I feel that it needs to happen.
The Ideal Leader Page 26
An ideal leader is someone who sets an example. A good example that people will then want to follow. One that encourages others to take action and to do something that is helpful for said leader. Leaders are meant to take charge and to do what needs to be done. In some cases that can in fact mean being a bit rude to lay out the truth of the matter. A leader needs to be honest to themselves and their peers. A student in this program should always be doing something regarding class activity. There is always something that needs to be done and by sitting there doing nothing is just showing a lack of effort. A leader should show effort in the things that they do and that applies to the leadership program itself. Regarding daily class activity, a leader should not always be on their phone. Yes there are things that can be done with the phone but, the students are located in the library and a phone can distract a person. While on a computer a person can focus on what it is they are doing, but on their phone if they get a notification that person might want to answer. A leader should also time manage and learn how to plan an event. In the program there is a lot to do and time management is a skill that must be learned, especially when you are putting on an event. Events are a lot of work and it is good to time manage them and to do things a step at a time. An ideal leader should be able to put on events and plan things ahead of time and try to have things go as smoothly as possible. An ideal leader should always do their homework on time. There is a reason for homework and its to help students outside of school. Yes homework can be very demanding and time consuming, but an ideal leader should still do their homework. An ideal leader should also encourage others to do their homework and help those with their homework. An ideal leader should also know when it is time to take a break and recollect themselves. Students are stressed as it is, and an ideal leader should remind people to be mindful of themselves at all times.