One Green Wall, Freedom for All

Emily Yang (10) | STAFF REPORTER

In a society where liberty prevails in politics, technology, economy, etc., a more pressing concern becomes disregarded: the freedom from hunger and thirst. Food insecurity has always been a defining challenge of developing countries, but the span of both food shortages and climate challenges in agriculture has slowly expanded in the past decades to developed countries as well. One possible solution to global food security would be the rising practice of vertical farming.  read more

The OSSLT: A Key Step Towards Graduation

Ziyou Li (10) | STAFF REPORTER

For Grade 10 students at STR, the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test, or OSSLT, is a mandatory evaluation. The Education Quality and Accountability Office conducts the test, which evaluates students reading and writing. The OSSLT was held on November 19 and 20 this year and included both multiple-choice and short-answer questions with a focus on written communication, investigation, and understanding. In Ontario, passing the OSSLT is a requirement for graduation, and students must pass it in order to obtain their diploma.

In order to prepare students for success in the classroom and in their jobs, the OSSLT is essential. Success in high school, post-secondary education, the workforce, and daily life all depend on having strong literacy abilities, particularly in reading and writing. The ability to read clearly and write well is a lifelong ability that will benefit students, regardless of whether they choose to pursue further education or employment. In light of this, the OSSLT is more than simply a test, it’s a chance for students to show that they are prepared for the difficulties that lie ahead. read more

Have Taylor Swift’s Concerts Impacted Toronto for the Worse?

Serena Ahmad (9) | STAFF REPORTER

It is not new news that Taylor Swift is here in Toronto performing for her Eras tours. She is everywhere, promoting her sold out concert with posters on public transport, large billboards throughout the city and much more. She is all the rave and, until Taylor leaves, it’s all you will hear about. However, this concert is doing Toronto more bad than good as the city stops focusing on its priorities to cater to Swift’s concert and fans. read more

Illuminating Senior Homes One Letter At A Time

Trevor Wu (11) | STAFF REPORTER

Our own Social Justice Council in collaboration with the Senior Smiles Club recently hosted the Sending Sunshine event to support the elderly in our community. This took place on Tuesday, November 19 in the cafeteria after school. The goal of the workshop was to write positive letters of encouragement to eventually be sent to seniors. The Senior Smiles Club has partnered with an elderly home in order to provide for the local community. This was an excellent opportunity for students to accumulate volunteering hours, while creating a positive impact for those who might need it. Many elderly individuals experience lots of emotional distress, whether due to old age, loss of loved ones, or loneliness. Sometimes even just receiving a cheerful, heartfelt letter is all they need. read more

Making Noise but Changing Nothing: A Critique of the Palestine Protest Encampments

Eva Guo (10) | STAFF REPORTER

In the spring of 2024, waves of Canadian students rallied on university campuses. Their goal? To show solidarity for Palestinians affected by the Israel-Palestine conflict, a push for greater awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza resulting in… zero meaningful change. While these protest encampments generated media attention, and the passion of these students is undeniable, such demonstrations are ineffective in furthering their cause and can even deter others from lending their support.  read more

Bring Back Meritocratic Admissions to Specialized Programs

Anya Yang (11) | STAFF REPORTER

Specialized programs admissions are changing more than ever all over the public education system. Dubbed “voluntary program(s) that uses alternative instructional strategies that respond to individual student needs and learning styles”, students who are especially interested in certain topics have the opportunity to receive a more focused education in those areas. In the past admissions have mostly been based on standardized testing, interviews and written applications, but recently they have become “interest-based”, meaning anyone can apply regardless of skill, making it a lottery: anyone can get in, and luck will determine the final decision.  read more

President-Elect Donald Trump 2024; A Tale as Old as Time?

Sarah Morra (12) | STAFF REPORTER

As per the results of the recent U.S. presidential election, Donald Trump has been elected to be President of the United States for his second term. However, one major difference between this victory in contrast to his last is the emergence of far right rhetoric, extremist policies, and a faction of supporters since the 2016 U.S. election. It is vital that we note these key differences and what they may entail for Americans…  read more

The Role of Midterm Reports in Successful Academic Performance

Aaliyah Zhou (9) | Staff Reporter

The midterm season is hardly conducive to a positive mindset for students who feel disappointed by their marks. However, it is important to remember that these reports play an imperative role in successful academic performance and progression throughout the semester. read more

Explore Math Competitions At STR’s Math Club

Lancy Wang (9) | STAFF REPORTER

The St. Robert CHS Math Club is a perfect place for students who enjoy mathematics and want to take on exciting challenges. The club meets every Wednesday after school at 2:45, in Room 203, and offers a supportive environment for anyone eager to improve their math skills and participate in competitions and challenges. read more