The Going Gets Tough

As we enter into the second month of the 2019-2020 school year, some of us look forward to moving on and see just how close the following year is, while for others, we reminisce on our last September of High School. Some of us look forward to the following years of high school, others look forward to getting accepted into college to start living the life we were meant to live. While this is my debut article, there are several things I would like to recollect on.

 Before going any further, I would like to congratulate the Varsity Football team for winning the first game of the season, and would like to wish them luck for future games to come. I would also like to thank James Cernivani and Margo Greenbaum, Marlboro alumni, for granting me the opportunity to write for this blog. It means a lot to know that I am being trusted with this blog, and will put every ounce of effort into this as those prior to me have.

Back to what I was saying.

Senior year so far has consisted of a variety of emotions that have ranged from utter happiness, to loneliness and anxiety. Some of you reading this may be underclassmen who don't quite understand yet what I'm talking about, while other of you, those of you who are seniors, will know exactly what I mean when I say you're living on the edge of your seat finding about which colleges will accept you. Who will you commit to? Is your SAT score good enough? What about my extracurriculars? These are all questions that cloud our everyday thoughts and always manage to find its way back into our everyday conversations. We wonder who is applying where, what will we do if we get in or if we don't, and simply hope that things will turn out okay. Through my years of high school, and now finally being a senior, I have come to the conclusion that living your life on the edge of your seat is not always the best thing. We have become so accustomed to this idea of overworking someone else to be on top that we never really get to enjoy the little things that high school has to offer. As surprising as that may sound, you'll realize that it was through school you've met your best friend, or that you've found something that you're passionate about, or maybe even just discovering who you are as a person. While this article may seem quite simple for a debut, there's a few more things to add before ending this off.

To the underclassmen: you may feel scared to ask for help from other people, and you may feel intimidated by your teachers or any of your fellow students. Talk to them, they are human too. It took me a long time to break out of my shell and find people that I really do like, and who also really like me. As cliche as it sounds, being yourself is an amazing thing and getting involved with clubs such as debate, volunteer work, asian club, literary magazine will help you find yourself. Putting yourself out there is one of the best things to do, so start early. The earlier you do it, the more passionate and involved you'll become. Remember that one bad mark is not the end of the world, and that the people around you may not last a lifetime as you would think. People change whether you like it or not, and that's okay, all you can do is accept it for them and for yourself. Enjoy the next few years ahead of you as best as you can. While it may not be the easiest thing, there will always be people there to support you.

To the seniors: while it may not feel like it could come soon enough, graduation is starting to feel really close now. Through all the trials and tribulations of maturing into the person you are today, it's safe to say that we couldn't have done it if it weren't for those around us, and our will to keep pushing forward. Even if things were rough, or if things just seemed impossible, somehow you managed get past the trials and tribulations of maturing into a young adult. While it may feel like things are changing too quickly, it is only a matter of time before you realize that change is good. There comes good and, potentially, even bad, but even then you learn and grow from everything that has happened. Good luck to everyone this year as you embark on your journey to adulthood.

-Jess Mirkin

Kicking off the 2019-2020 School Year with a Bang!

It has already been three weeks since the 2019-2020 school year began! It is hard to believe that we are already almost in October! With that being said, the 2019-2020 school year is off to a great start!

To start off, the Class of 2023 began their first year at Marlboro High School on September 4th! The Class of 2023 probably had trouble finding their classes, but luckily we have an amazing faculty and student body here at Marlboro High School, that the Class of 2023 could simply go up to any of our faculty or student body and ask for directions to their classes! With all of our clubs/sports to try out, outstanding faculty and student body, and our outstanding achievements in so many fields(sports, standardized testing scores, etc.), Marlboro High School is, without a doubt, a great school to attend in the state of New Jersey and in Monmouth County!

Advice to the Class of 2023 would be to:

1. Try out for a sport or join a club at Marlboro High School! Marlboro High School has a variety of sports/clubs to offer to ALL students here! At the end of this blog post, I will attach some important information, such as the sports/clubs we offer here at Marlboro High School, and for sports, what you need to complete to try out for a sports team!
2. Really try hard your first year of high school! As someone who graduated from Marlboro High School in 2018, believe it or not, your grades in high school will matter! Just remember this...
1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK!
2. ESTABLISH A REGULAR STUDY ROUTINE!
3. STUDY HARD!
4. TAKE GOOD NOTES!
5. INSTILL IN YOUR MIND THAT YOU CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING!
6. NOTIFY YOUR TEACHER IF YOUR HAVING TROUBLE WITH ANYTHING!
7. YOU NEED TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF TO ACCOMPLISH YOUR VERY BEST IN HIGH SCHOOL AND BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL! 
8. This acronym, DESTINY, Helped me accomplish a lot, and I think it can be useful to everyone! THIS IS YOUR DESTINY!!
3. Participate in school events, such as the Homecoming Dance/Game, Battle of the Classes, sports games, etc.! Battle of the Classes is one of many great experiences! I remember missing Battle of the Classes my freshmen year, because its two days before Thanksgiving Break, and I was going to Florida. I remember seeing all my friends pictures at Battle of the Classes freshmen year, and it made me want to go! So, I went my sophomore, junior, and senior year, and had an amazing time at BOTC! The whole school comes together and students cheer on the 14 people(7 boys and 7 girls), chosen by their grade level, to represent their class at BOTC! BOTC is one of Marlboro High School's largest events, and everyone enjoys going, so don't miss out, BOTC is on Tuesday November 26th starting at approximately 6pm! Also, remember to support our sports teams/clubs, and to go to the homecoming dance, which is on Friday, October 25th starting at 6:30pm, followed by the Homecoming Game on Saturday, October 26th starting at approximately 2pm! You also need to purchase a ticket for the Homecoming Dance in the morning before school, and same goes for BOTC! Dates for ticket sales will be announced soon!

Here are the weekly announcements for the week of Sunday 09/22/2019- Saturday 09/28/2019!

Monday, 09/23/2019 (F-Day)

• There will be an Italian Club meeting at 3:15pm in Room A205!
• There is a Math League Competition at 3pm in Marlboro HS Cafeteria
• Good luck to the JV Football Team as they play Middletown HS North @ 4pm @ HOME on the Marlboro HS Football Field!
• Come support the Girls Varsity Soccer Team as they play Rumson Fair Haven H.S. @ HOME @ 4pm on the Varsity Soccer Field! Also, come support the Girls JV Soccer Team as they play Rumson Fair Haven H.S. @ HOME @ 4pm on the JV Soccer Field! In addition, come support the Girls Freshmen Soccer Team as they play Rumson Fair Haven H.S. @ HOME @ 5:30pm on the Marlboro High School JV Soccer Field!
• Good luck to the Boys Varsity Soccer Team as they play Red Bank Catholic H.S. @ 4pm  AWAY @ Count Basie Park(11 Henry Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701)!
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Tennis Team as they play Long Branch H.S. @ 4pm AWAY @ Long Branch High School(404 Indiana Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740)
• Come support the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team as they play Rumson Fair Haven H.S. @ 4pm in the Marlboro High School Main Gym! Also, come support the Girls JV Volleyball Team as they play Rumson Fair Haven H.S. @ 5:30pm in the Marlboro High School Main Gym!

Tuesday, 09/24/2019 (G-Day)

• The First Meeting of Key Club is at 3pm in the media center!
• The First Meeting of FCCLA is at 12 noon in Room A135!
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Soccer Team as they play Freehold Township HS @ 4pm AWAY at Freehold Township HS(281 Elton Adelphia Road, Freehold, NJ 07728)! Also, good luck to the Girls JV Soccer Team as they play Freehold Township HS @ 4pm AWAY at Freehold Township HS(281 Elton Adelphia Road, Freehold, NJ 07728)! In addition, good luck to the Girls Freshmen Soccer Team as they play Freehold Township HS @ 5:30pm AWAY at Freehold Township HS(281 Elton Adelphia Road, Freehold, NJ 07728)!
• Come support the Boys Varsity Soccer Team, as they play Freehold Township HS @ 4pm @ HOME on the Marlboro HS Varsity Soccer field! Also, come support the Boys JV Soccer Team as they play Freehold Township HS @ 4pm on the Marlboro HS JV Soccer Field! In addition, come support the Boys Freshmen Soccer Team as they play Freehold Township HS @ 5:30pm on the Marlboro HS JV Soccer Field!
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Tennis Team as they enter the Shore Conference Tournament Championship against Ranney Prep @ 4pm AWAY @ Ranney School(235 Hope Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724)! 
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team as they play Wall Township HS @ 4pm AWAY @ Wall Township High School (1630 18th Avenue, Wall Township, NJ 07719)! Also, good luck to the Girls JV Volleyball Team as they play Wall Township HS @ 5:30pm AWAY @ Wall Township High School (1630 18th Avenue, Wall Township, NJ 07719)!
• Good luck to the Gymnastics Team as they have a match against Freehold Borough HS @ 4:30pm AWAY @ Colts Neck High School (59 Five Points Road, Colts Neck, NJ 07722)

Wednesday, September 25th (A-Day)

• THERE WILL BE AN EARLY DISMISSAL! SCHOOL ENDS AT 1:03PM!! Follow this link for the early dismissal schedule, we are one of the late schools: https://www.frhsd.com/Page/398
• There will be a Hitching Post/Newspaper Club Meeting @ 7:45am in Room A127!
• Come support the Marlboro HS Cheerleading Team by going to Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar(280 U.S. 9 North, Morganville, NJ 07751) from 11am-10pm! In partnership with Marlboro High School Cheer Team, Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar will be donating 20% of the sales when this flyer(Refer to Attachment 1 at the end of this post), is presented on the benefit day! 
• Come support the Girls Varsity Tennis Team @ 4pm vs Manalapan HS at the Marlboro Swim Club(Masepe Trail, Morganville, NJ 07751)

Thursday, September 26th (B-Day)

• There will be an interest meeting for people interested in running for Battle of the Classes @ 7:45am in Room A119!
• There will be a Peer Mentorship meeting @ 7:50am in Room C130! 
• There will be a Literary Magazine club meeting @ 3pm in Room A123!
• There will be a Leo Club meeting @ 3pm in the Media Center!
• There will be a Science League meeting @ 3pm in Room D204!
• TEEN DRIVING SAFETY PROGRAM FINAL MAKEUP is from 6pm-7pm in the Marlboro HS Auditorium, for those who wanted to drive this year, but still haven't attended the Teen Driving Safety Program!
• Good luck to the Girls/Boys Cross-Country Team as they have a meet @ 4pm AWAY @ Freehold Township HS(281 Elton Adelphia Road, Freehold Township, NJ 07728)!
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team as they play Long Branch HS @ 4pm AWAY @ Long Branch HS(404 Indiana Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740)! Also, good luck to the Girls JV Volleyball Team as they play Long Branch HS @ 5:30pm AWAY @ Long Branch HS(404 Indiana Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740)! 
• Come support the Girls Gymnastics Team at their varsity meet vs Toms River South HS @ 4:30pm in the Marlboro High School Middle Gym! 
• Good luck to the Freshmen Football Team as they play Howell HS @ 4:45pm AWAY @ Howell High School(405 Squankum Yellowbrook Road, Farmingdale, NJ 07727)!

Friday, September 27th (C-Day)

• Come support the Girls JV Soccer Team as they play Toms River East HS @ 4pm on the Marlboro HS Varsity Soccer Field! Also, come support the Girls Freshmen Soccer Team @ 4pm on the Marlboro HS JV Soccer Field!
• Good luck to the Boys Varsity Soccer Team as they play Toms River East HS @ 5:30pm AWAY @ Toms River East HS(1225 Raider Way, Toms River, NJ 08753)! Also, good luck to the Boys JV Soccer Team as they play Toms River East HS @ 4pm AWAY @ Toms River East HS(1225 Raider Way, Toms River, NJ 08753)! In addition, good luck to the Boys Freshmen Soccer Team as they play Toms River East HS @ 4pm AWAY @ Toms River East HS(1225 Raider Way, Toms River, NJ 08753)!
• Good luck to the Girls Varsity Tennis Team as they match up against Howell HS @ 4pm AWAY @ Howell HS(405 Squankum Yellowbrook Road, Howell NJ 07727)! 
• Good luck to the Girls JV Volleyball Team as they play North Brunswick HS @ 4pm AWAY @ North Brunswick HS(98 Raider Road, North Brunswick, NJ 08902)! Also, Good luck to the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team as they play North Brunswick HS @ 5:15pm AWAY @ North Brunswick HS(98 Raider Road, North Brunswick, NJ 08902)!

Saturday, September 28th

• Come to the Student Council Car Wash from 9am-2pm in the Marlboro HS Parking Lot! Donations are accepted and encouraged, and a portion of proceeds will benefit One Simple Wish!
• Whats in your closet?? The MHS Cheerleading is having a clothing drive from 10am-12pm at Marlboro High School! All additional information is in Attachment 2 at the end of this blog post!
• Come support the Football Team, MHS Cheer Team, MHS Dance Team, and MHS Marching Band, vs Howell HS @ 12pm @ HOME at the Marlboro HS Stadium Field!

Weekly updates can be found here: https://docs.google.com/viewerng/viewer?url=https://www.frhsd.com//cms/lib/NJ01912687/Centricity/Domain/199/Mustang+Weekly+Updates+9.23.19.pdf

Have a great week everyone!! :) 

Below are a couple of attachments!

Attachment 1: Cheer Fundraiser #1 Zinburger Flyer

Attachment 2: Cheer Fundtaiser #2 Clothing Drive Flyer

Attachment 3: Red Tomato Fundraiser for Class of 2021:

Attachment #4: Student Council Car Wash Flyer

Also, here is the link to the Marlboro Athletics page, where you can find information on sports/clubs, physicals, etc: https://sites.google.com/frhsd.com/mrhsseca/home

- Written by: James Cernivani (Class of 2018 Alumni)

Where did the time go?

As I read what my peers or adults wrote in my year book one message is repeatedly written. That I will change the world for the good and be an amazing educator. As you all know, I am heart broken to be leaving this school. Scared to see what the next chapter in my life will bring and what comes after that. One of my biggest fears is that I will not accomplish what everyone hopes or thinks I will do. That I won’t be the teacher my students need me to be, that I won’t become an administrator, that I won’t love the educational field as much as I say I do or hope to. But, I do know that I accomplished everything and more while I was in this school. 

I walked into this school as a pompous, lost person, but who still wanted to be a leader and leave an impact. It took a lot of tribulations to do so. Before my first marking period was over I didn’t make the volleyball team or BOTC team and didn’t become president. 15 marking period laters there were more failures than accomplishments, but they outweigh the failures. What I love to look back at the most is the journey I went on to become who I am. To reflect on how I reacted in certain situations and how I grew from all of them. To remember how I thought I could never overcome the hurtle in front of me, but here I am. To look back and say thank god I met that person or wonder what I would have done without them. This school has given me so much and can truly call it a second home. In sophomore year I was able to create a club to send soldiers care packages in Georgia. It was amazing to see their smiles in pictures they sent back. In junior year I became part of Spanish honor society and started to make a real impact on my school. Senior year I joined art honor society, gave a speech in front of hundreds of eighth graders, won a scholarship, ran stang gang, and got the principals appreciation award. In between doing that, being an activist, and studying, I made it a priority to talk to the people who have helped me get to where I am today. Seeing friends in the morning to catch up or staying after to talk to educators. 

When I think of freshman year, I remember a girl once telling me that I didn’t deserve to be president. That people only said they would vote for me for candy. Though I was very bitter about it then, I agree I didn’t deserve it then. But, I made it my goal to prove her wrong. I now think back to June 7th and know I proved her wrong. On June 7th I was honored to be given the principals appreciation award. From a principal who is brand new, from a principal who also helped me grow so much. I only wish I could see him change this school for the better as a student and not as an alumni. I also think back to October, my peer leadership class made up superlatives. I of course won, to keep in contact with my teachers, but also most likely to be president of United States. The girl who said that to me in freshman year, voted for me for that superlative, yet again showing I accomplished my goal. I made it my goal to not be liked by all of my peers, because that will never happen. But, made it my goal to be respected by them. I’m the person asked about upcoming events, if they can or can’t do something, etc. I had the pleasure of tutoring/ mentoring these 2 juniors. As I got to know them, they also got to know me. One of them asked “how will this school run without you” and the other said “not like it used to”. Bringing a smile to my face, but sadness to my heart that I won’t be able to tutor them next year. That I won’t be able to yell at them to get to class, ironic I know! But, I am excited see them flourish into the intelligent, caring people they are. 

The saying is that it takes a village to raise a child and I couldn’t agree more. I told my favorite person that I think of it like this: my parents planted a seed and helped a flower start to grow, but it was my village at school that helped this flower flourish, by giving it everything and more. If it is from confidence, patience, life lessons, and love, they gave me everything I needed to flourish.  These individuals became the people who were there at my happiest moments, saddest moments, and everything in between. They were the people I confided to, but also laughed with, too. They were the people who only wanted the best for me, so at times they had to give tough love. These people are the reason that it will break my heart to graduate. 

It freaks me out to think that in September I won’t walk into a class and know every single person. It freaks me out that I won’t stop and talk to administrators. It freaks me out that I won’t be a leader of the school. For at least 4 years I have gotten to know 99% of my grade and it has been a pleasure to also see them grow into leaders and people with bright futures ahead. I only wish each and everyone of them the best of luck in their next endeavors. I know that the class of 2018 will only change this world for the good and I am so excited to watch and be part of it happen. It freaks me out that we’re now “adults”...

I only hope that I can make the difference and positive lasting impact I did in Marlboro, in Stockton. That in 4 years I’ll be giving speeches at orientations and that I lead clubs and am a voice for my peers.

I’d like to take the time to thank James for letting me run this account with him. I wouldn’t be who I am without it or him. I am forever grateful, James. I would also like to thank my “squad” as I always say. Sra. Saraceni, Ms. Popiel, Mrs. Campanero, Ms. DiLorenzo (Dizzy) Mrs. Andreacci, and the 2 most important... Mr. Uplinger, who has given the confidence to speak up and speak out. Who is the prime example of the type of teacher I want to be and my all time favorite teacher.  Finally, Wonder Woman, Mrs. Bruno. If you didn’t call me down freshman year and didn’t go out of your way to help me grow, none of this would have happened. There isn’t a way to express my gratitude, appreciation, and love for my village. I am forever grateful and have undying love for all of you. Though my students will not know any of you, they will hear of you, and be grateful for all of you, as you have all helped shape me into who will be their teacher, favorite teacher that is.  There isn’t a way for me to say good bye, because it’s see you later MHS, and next time you’ll be calling me Ms. Greenbaum...

Senior- Margo Greenbaum 

Stanggang Spotlight: Mrs. Carey

If you are not seeing this fellow mustang waiting with her students for the bus or smiling during hall duty, you’ll see her doing what she loves most, teaching! Mrs. Carey was not always a teacher, before starting her career in education she worked in television production for MTV! Though it may seem amazing to others, she was not happy with the long work hours. 

She says that what made her interested in teaching was the fact that all her roommates were in that field. Listening to their student teaching experiences and the work they were assigned fascinated her. She took one class and she was hooked! 

17 years later Mrs. Carey has taught various classes such as civics and government and math. Being a special education teacher has taught her as much as teaches. She says that it’s not the test grades she remembers, but the laughs and special moments she thinks about when she hears a students name. They’ve taught her the importance of appreciating the little things and not to take her self too seriously. She is continuously impressed by their perseverance and bravery in pursuit of their goals.

We asked her what she hopes her students learn from her and her response is one of the many reasons she got educator of the month. Mrs. Carey said, “That it’s important to try, even when things are hard. That there are always people who are willing to cheer you on and help you out. And, find happiness; in what you do and who you spend your time with. Working hard and being kind to others will serve you well.” 

From elementary to high school in 4 different districts, Mrs. Carey has done it all. Marlboro is lucky to have such a dedicated and kind teacher. 

                                                         

         Margo Greenbaum 

Teacher of the Year: Mr Nash

Proud to announce that the Teacher of the Year for the 2017-2018 school year is Mr Brian Nash. Mr Nash has been teaching for 19 years and teaches in the Social Studies department at Marlboro High School. Mr Nash currently teaches AP U.S. History and Academic U.S. History. What inspired Mr Nash to become a teacher was being very fortunate to have many good teachers and coaches in his educational career who had a significant impact on his life. Mr Nash says his students have kept him young. His students' stories have brought much laughter and many smiles. They keep him informed about youth culture, technology, and music. Their multi-cultural backgrounds have added different points of view and perspectives on global issues. And, despite his grey hairs, have helped keep him young at heart. What Mr Nash hopes his students have learned/will learn from him are of course, history and skills that help them in college and later in life, but also that they learn they are more than just a number such as a GPA or SAT score, and have unique skills, passions, and personalities that make them special!

From personal experience in Mr Nash's class, I loved his class! When I first walked into his class junior year I thought I was not going to get much out of his class. In fact, I learned a lot of information from his class that could help me in the future and a lot of great advice that will help me in college and later in life! Mr Nash is not just a great teacher.. He also coaches girls basketball and boys soccer and has coached other sports in his previous years teaching at Marlboro High School!

To a great teacher, coach, friend of many, etc. congratulations on getting Teacher of the Year for the 2017-2018 school year Mr Nash!! This was very well deserved! 

Written by: James Cernivani(Grade 12)

StangGang Spotlight: Ashley Zilenziger

Though at 8th grade orientation was the first time I had a real conversation with this person, I knew of her since freshman year. Ashley Zilenziger is well rounded person who is very worthy of this spotlight. If she’s not hitting the books getting ready for DECA she’s on the tennis court swinging away. But, most recently she became president of the grade, giving her the honor of leading over 2,000 people in the pledge every day. She stepped into the ring of student council with the soul purpose of giving back. She says that senior year has given her the perfect opportunity to give back to her fellow classmates that have given so much to her these past 3 years. She also says that she knew this position would make her a role model to underclassman. At 8th grade orientation she spoke of all of the amazing things she’s done and explained how there are so many opportunities for the incoming class. If you don’t see Ashley giving speeches you will see her selling food in the morning. Selling food in the morning has been the class of 2018’s biggest fundraiser. She continually picks up the bagels in the early morning so her peers can enjoy some food while also helping her grade. She says she now wakes up at 6 in the morning to get to school so early every day. She was asked what she has gained from being part of student council and she said time management. Having so many different roles in the school can be hard when there’s only a certain amount of hours in the day. She’s learned how to get what she needs done in the time she’s given because of how involved she is in. She recently was voted by fellow seniors as “prettiest”. Though she dresses to impress every day, her big heart and dedication to everything she does is really what makes her so pretty. I look forward to hearing her speech at graduation and how she’ll be a leader in the next chapter of her life, too. 

Margo Greenbaum 

StangGang Spotlight: Margo Greenbaum

I’ve known this girl since about sixth grade, and I am proud to announce she was nominated for a stanggang spotlight. Margo Greenbaum is a very active member of the Marlboro High School community. She shows her commitment and dedication through activities she participates in, which include running StangGang Spirit, being a part of We the People, Peer Leadership, Peer Mentorship, and Student Government. The main reason why Margo was nominated to be this week’s StangGang Student Spotlight was because she runs the social media account for the students.

Margo was asked, “Why was this activity something that interested you?” Margo’s answer to this was, “I never knew who ran the account, but I always wanted to know who did and to run the account. I also liked the idea of leading the school through social media.” It all started when she was surprised that I created the account and was eager to help when I asked her to run the account with me. It was at last year's graduation that I asked her to help me which is when our journey began to better the lives for the students of Marlboro High School and to let everyone know what is going on in the school community! Then, Margo was asked, “If you had to persuade someone to perform/participate in in your activity, what would you say to do so?” Margo answered with, “I would never persuade someone to do this. For StangGang to be successful it must be led by people who step up to the plate to do this job! But, if someone were to ask why do I love what I do, I would say because it has given me the opportunity to spread my wings. If someone wants to be a leader of the school, but really doesn’t like public speaking, it is a great job because it is all online. But, at the same time it teaches you how to communicate with your peers and adults in ways you usually wouldn’t have the opportunity to. If you want to grow as a person and a leader, StangGang will let you do exactly that. But it’s not for everyone, if you really don’t love the school or want to help the school, then don’t do it.” Margo was asked, “What were your expectations by being part of this activity?” Margo answered, “That I would lead the school and know what is going on in the school and district.” This activity has affected Margo’s daily routine in many ways! It has made her more aware of what she is doing and how she acts. With the reputation she has made through StangGang she has to make sure that she is doing the right thing and not contradicting anything she says online. Margo also goes over her data limit every month because the school has not so great WiFi and she needs to go on Twitter and keep up with what’s going on and to also post things throughout the day too. Margo is also asked all the time what is going on in the school community, so she also must remember events and things that are going on because she is asked so frequently. Margo is so thankful for what StangGang has done for her, it has made her a better person and leader! 

Anyone who meets Margo is lucky! Margo is a great leader, who hopes to one day pursue a career in education. Margo is a friendly, outgoing girl who we know will one day grow up to be a successful teacher, with students who love her, as much as we do! Margo says that many of her teachers are the reason she loves this school and why she wants to teach high school. Many of them joke around with her by saying they can't wait for her to have a student like her. For now she may be looked at a side kick to her favorite person and mentor, Mrs. Bruno, but I know she will one day earn the title of a super hero, too. She will not just rock the job of being a teacher, but will succeed as an administrator.  I would like to say that Margo has been a true friend to me. From being my homecoming escort to running StangGang Spirit with me she has been by my side through it all. I have to say, Homecoming was only great because she helped me out with many things, such as helping me have the best homecoming breakfast setup or by being my escort and walking out with me for the dance and game. That will be an experience that I will never forget, for sure! Also, I have to say I’m going to miss running StangGang Spirit or seeing her everyday next year, as we are graduating in less than 5 months. Margo should be a inspiration to anyone who wants to succeed in life and go on to achieve bigger and better things! To a one of a kind person who has helped out the Class of 2018 over the past 3-4 years in raising money for fundraisers/coming up with ideas for fundraisers, someone who has a lot of school spirit, and someone is classified as a “Teacher’s Pet” we love you Margo and will miss you next school year! 

Now a few words from some of Margo’s favorite people:

Ms. Bruno: Margo’s contributions to MHS have been numerous yet mostly behind the scenes.  She promotes the Mustang Community (@StangGang Twitter) because she is proud of it and wants others to share in her enthusiasm.  In her four years at MHS, she has not always gotten things to go ‘her way’ but she has learned from it.  This is what we as educators hope for our students.  “Fail forward” and grow from your trials and tribulations. 

Señora Saraceni & Señora Sebastiani: Combined we have known Margo for her entire high school career. We can both attest that she has grown into a fine young lady. Margo is a kind hearted young woman with sometimes a rough exterior. Once you break through the toughness you can see a gentile soul inside waiting to come out. She Is always willing to help those in need either academically or personally. We are proud to have been her teachers and seen and guided her through her journey.
We cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. We wish her luck in the future.

Mr. Uplinger: Margo is very deserving.  Margo has been so impressive to me this year.  She came into We the People with great anxiety and fear that she would not measure up to other students in class.  Yet, as we competed last week in We the People State Competition, Margo was one of my top students and an essential member of a Unit I team that finished second in the state of New Jersey.  Margo came for extra help, over and over; selflessly encouraged her classmates;  and consistently challenged herself to take on uncomfortable tasks.  Her growth as a person has been inspiring.  She has become a leader who is as interested in her neighbors success as her own.  I could not be more proud of her.   





Written by: James Cernivani (Grade 12)