Pre-teens learn importance of manners, etiquette in Cotillion

By Caroline Carter Staff Writer Every Friday in January and February, middle school students put on their best attire, dancing shoes and white gloves to attend the Jon D. Williams Cotillion in Coppell. Through the program, pre-teens learn the importance of proper manners and the skills needed to be successful as an adult. Founded in 1949 by Jon and Vivian Williams, the JDW Cotillion would eventually impact over 10,000 young people nationwide. The Williams, both of who were professional ballroom dancers, saw the importance of proper etiquette in youth. Now there are over 47 different divisions of Cotillion across the country that annually holds classes. Brought to Coppell in 1997 by Kit Whitehill, the Coppell…

Valentine’s Day: A girl’s happiness, boy’s nightmare

By Lauren VerDuin Staff Writer It is that time of year again: boxes of assorted chocolates, red roses, oversized teddy bears and excessive pink and red cutout hearts. February is upon us, and that means preparation for Valentine’s Day for many students at Coppell High School. The difference between a boy’s perspective and a girl’s of this vibrant holiday is quite drastic. Take a high school boy for example and compare his excitement for the upcoming festivities, then compare them to the happiness and heartfelt love of a girl. You are bound to see just how significant Valentine’s Day is to the typical girl. From the idea of the perfect gift to the true meaning…

Q&A with Coppell High Schools newest graduates

Sammy Robben Sports Editor The Coppell High school class of 2011 had one semester of college under their belt, and now they are helping the class of 2012 with their questions about the future. Q. What is the best way to find a roommate? It is different for everyone. I ended up rooming with a friend from high school, and I have loved it. It has been nice to have someone I know with me all year. I also know a lot of people who did room-surf, www.roomsurf.com. It’s a website that helps you find a roommate who will be compatible with you based on your personality, interests and habits. From what I know, it…

CHS students cope with mental illness stigma

By Erica Rohde Staff Writer   “If only” is a common phrase for those who would wish away their mental disorders with a wave of a wand or a snap of a finger.  If only I could be like those who seem to be handling their lives with ease, balancing a couple of projects without tears, being able to have the energy to laugh and smile. If only my brain were not wired this way. A person with a mental illness will face the hardship of harmful social stigma that come with it. They will compare themselves to other people and how they think, act, feel or believe, and their condition will typically lead to an…

Photo Gallery: Souper Bowl of Caring Kick Off Pep Rally

Photos by Jodie Woodward and Rachel Bush

North principal Leanne Dorhout receives doctorate

By Annie Wen Staff Writer The art of teaching is often underestimated. Teachers hold a responsibility greater than anyone can imagine; they are responsible for educating and preparing the leaders of the future. It is a task that requires passion and devotion. Coppell Middle School North Principal Leanne Dorhout has taken this task to a whole new level. A few months ago Dorhout received her doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policies Study and Superintendence Certification from Tarleton State. Dorhout originally intended to go into the field of Political Science and was even at one point a Theater and Poetry major. After this, she went into the field of English and Secondary Education. Dorhout had always enjoyed…

North Lake College offers opportunities for students

By Christina Burke Staff Writer All of the students in Coppell High School are working toward one common goal: graduation day. On this day, the chains of high school will be lifted off students’ shoulders, and they will begin the first days of the rest of their lives. The path that takes them there is a road filled with twists, turns and choices. But before they get there, they have to think ahead to the next few years. The world has become a very competitive place in regards to the education system, and the job market is getting harder to succeed in without a college degree. It is also getting harder and harder to pay…

Exams get teachers, students thinking

By John Loop and Kasey Tucker As exam week creeps ever closer, moans and groans begin resonating from the crowded halls of Coppell High School. Students begin cramming the mathematical formulas and Spanish vocabulary into their brains to make sure they are adequately prepared for the big tests. In high schools everywhere, teachers are beginning to challenge their students more and more to think critically as well as problem solve. One way that has commonly been used is the creation of a tangible product(s) for the mid-term and end-of year exams. This in turn placates stressing teachers with the grading process, and more opportunity for students to get their creative juices flowing. Some students still…

Volunteers experience true meaning of serving others

By Caroline Carter & Madison Weaver Though many people participate in community service just to meet mandatory service hour requirements, some have a deeper reason for giving up hours in their day to serve others. At the North Texas Food Bank, over 500 volunteers come every week to show others how much they care. The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1982. By providing and distributing about 90,000 nutritious meals a day, the NTFB has greatly impacted the seniors, adults and children of 13 North Texas counties. The NTFB raised about $10 million during the holiday season for families in need. “This whole year is about rethinking hunger; we want…

Citizens resolve issues with resolutions

By Ben Cowlishaw & Kristin Anderson Junior Alicia Van Winkle didn’t take advantage of all opportunities given to her in 2011. After an unexpected loss, in 2012, she aims to truly “live life to the fullest”. For many, New Year’s Eve serves as a time of reflection on the past year. The start of a new year is a chance for many to try to better themselves or try something new. New Year’s resolutions have become a staple of American society. Many take part in the practice of creating a list, physically or mentally, of ways they want to improve themselves in the upcoming year. Most resolutions have something to do with being healthier, more…