Amnesty director visits

The regional studies class was recently visited by Banafsheh Akhlaghi, the western regional director of Amnesty International USA. The focus of Akhlaghi’s presentation was on how to stop human trafficking.

Akhlaghi made her presentation interactive by separating students into groups, each which assessed either a legislative, media, or advocacy angle of the issue.

“She had extensive knowledge of the human rights issues and spoke to the nature of Amnesty International,” said Amy ’09, a student in the class.

Amanda ’09

Proposed uniform changes will not be implemented

The administration did not institute the second phase of uniform changes due to compliance issues.

Head of Upper School Laura Hotchkiss said that the changes could go into effect in the fall of the ’09-10 school year. The phase included a new upper school skirt, Bermuda shorts, and black pants.

Angela ’12 said that although she was not fond of the Bermuda shorts, she would have taken advantage of the black pants and polo.

Math instructor and uniform committee adviser Sandra O’Connor said she has not seen an improvement in compliance after the first phase of changes and still sees girls wearing skirts with their boxers hanging out, out-of-uniform shirts, and shoes that are not fully on.

However, O’Connor is positive about changes happening next year.

“We’re hoping. If the girls are willing to comply with what we want, I don’t see why not,” she said.

Julia ’09

Rubin named CASC’s regional president

Once the eighth grade community service representative and president for the sophomore and junior classes, Lauren ’10 is now the regional president of Los Angeles for the California Association of Student Councils (CASC).

CASC is a student-led nonprofit that has been empowering youth for more than 50 years. One piece of legislation CASC has brought about is the rule that allows students to have cell phones at school.

Lauren’s many responsibilities include hosting two conferences and recruiting the people that will make up her cabinet.

Her goal for next year is to get every private school involved as a member of CASC.

“I wish I had learned the skills CASC teaches before I became president, because they are so effective,” Lauren said. “They promote team building and how to run meetings so efficiently, two skills that could benefit all student councils.”

Amanda ’09

Yearbook dedicated to Brown

The Sundial was dedicated to Tinka Brown, physical education instructor.

The yearbook staff listed her optimism, her witty t-shirts, and her constant guidance as reasons why they chose Brown.

Yearbook adviser Les Klein agreed with the students’ decision to choose Brown.

“I really trust her and feel quite connected with her,” Klein said.

Brown said that she felt “incredibly honored, touched, and truly blown away.”

“I was a little embarrassed that my flood gates were filled up, but more heart felt energy emerged when I saw so many students and faculty members with tears too,” she said.

Brianne ’10