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Hollyn Alpert (’28) runs while tossing blue powder into the air March 22. Students celebrated Holi on the back field and threw colored powder at each other at commemorate the new spring.  
A vibrant Holi-day: Holi celebration marks beginning of spring
Broadcast: GEG hosts International Womens Day event, honors theme of Inspiring Inclusion
Broadcast: GEG hosts International Women’s Day event, honors theme of ‘Inspiring Inclusion’
Seniors Lacey Thompson and Laila Charles pour smoothies into cups for the “Guess the Smoothie” activity. The activity took place March 20 for the “Wild West vs. West Coast” Spirit Week theme day.
Spirit Week incorporates new, old themes during major assessment week
Freshman Milan Earl and sophomore Lucy Kaplan sit with their grandparents at Archer’s annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day Friday, March 15. The event took place over three 75-minute sessions.  “[I hope my grandparents] gain an understanding about what I do, Kaplan said, because I know they ask a lot of questions and can sort of see what I do in school and what the experience is like to be here.
Archer hosts annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day, students share school culture with loved ones
Kaitlyn Lavichant from Flintridge Preparatory School shares her piece, “Life Through a Digital Camera,” at the annual Literature &... Conference Friday, March 8. The conference took place in the library from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and upper school students were invited to attend during their free periods or English classes throughout the day.
16th annual Literature &… Conference brings community together to recognize importance of literature
Associate Director of College Guidance Shalyn Tharayil works in her office in preparation for rising seniors college application season. Tharayil has worked with schools all over the world and reflected on her first year at Archer. I think the culture fit at Archer — the students, the teachers, our team — I just think I really fit well with the ethos of how we approach college counseling here, which is very holistic and very student-centered, Tharayil said.
Q&A with college guidance counselor on supporting students through journey of self-discovery
Four stuffed animals and one stuffed avocado are clustered on a bed. A New York Times article stated that stuffed animals help people cope with stress because of the comfort they provide.
More than toys: Stuffed animals’ calming effects on mental health
Maia Alvarez (’24), Allie Yang (’25) and Shae Killam (’27) pose with an award after their Western Bay Forensic League tournament. Their tournament took place at Harvard-Westlake School March 2. Photo provided by Maia Alvarez.
Q&A with speech and debate team captains on promoting positivity, friendship within team
Gabrielle Cain stands at her graduation in Naval Academy outfit. She graduated from flight school and became a Naval Aviator in 2023. Photo provided by Gabrielle Cain.
‘Unicorn’ in her field: Life in the military as a Black woman
A graphic illustration displays an individual speaking a world language with a native speaker via an online conversation platform. Upper school French and Spanish classes incorporated Boomalang, and upper school Chinese classes switched student groups at the National Taiwan University to help students practice their communication skills in the target language. (Graphic Illustration by Emily Paschall).
Beyond the classroom: World language classes utilize tutoring platforms, students become ‘open-minded citizens of the world’
There are sea anemones for days at Broad Beach, and, for some reason, the child in me cant help but get a closer look. This is just one of my favorite beaches in LA County that offers fun amenities and beautiful scenery you wont want to miss. Photo by Kate Hanney (25).
Review: My favorite beaches on LA County coast
Serenity Jones (26) and Alice Rifenbark (28) interact with senior Sadie Longs artwork. Long and Chloe Resnick (24) opened their senior show, Roots & Reflections: A Surreal Look at Beginnings, in the Eastern Star Gallery Wednesday, April 10.
Senior show ‘Roots & Reflections: A Surreal Look at Beginnings’ displays introspection, reflection on senior year
A man works at the counter at The Bread Lounge. Loaves of bread lined the shelves at this bakery that prides itself on its bountiful offerings.
Review: Bread Lounge delivers delicious, doughy treats, unique experience
Various reality TV shows that are available for streaming on Hulu are shown. There are several genres within reality TV, such as makeover and romance, which makes reality TV appealing to different audiences.
From ‘The Bachelor’ to ‘Love is Blind,’ reality TV is ‘entertaining,’ ‘comforting’ despite inherent artificiality
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
Serenity Jones (26) and Alice Rifenbark (28) interact with senior Sadie Longs artwork. Long and Chloe Resnick (24) opened their senior show, Roots & Reflections: A Surreal Look at Beginnings, in the Eastern Star Gallery Wednesday, April 10.
Senior show ‘Roots & Reflections: A Surreal Look at Beginnings’ displays introspection, reflection on senior year
Various reality TV shows that are available for streaming on Hulu are shown. There are several genres within reality TV, such as makeover and romance, which makes reality TV appealing to different audiences.
From ‘The Bachelor’ to ‘Love is Blind,’ reality TV is ‘entertaining,’ ‘comforting’ despite inherent artificiality
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
Cannon performs a line after getting upset with Alice during the tea party. The Mad Hatter then calmed down and joined the rest of the guests for the remainder of the scene. Stella Leland (‘26) played the knave and reflected on their favorite part of rehearsals. “What stands out a lot is always the first read-through of something. Whenever we do that at any production — some of us might have read this script beforehand — its the first time the show is seen with everyone,” Leland said. “Who they are, their characters and everything, and its the first time youre like, ‘Oh, I can tell whats going to happen now.’ Its just a nice moment.”
A ‘nonsensical’ journey: Upper school presents ‘Le Gallienne and Friebus’ Alice In Wonderland’
Annie Friedman (’24) and Malia Apor (’24) pose for a photo in front of the title wall for their Petals and Paths senior art show. Friedman and Apor are Advanced Study Ceramics students and chose to display pottery with themes of nature and family Wednesday, March 6. “I’m drawn to using one glaze called overglaze to make it more cohesive,” Friedman said. “I know Malia uses something called underglazing sometimes, and it’s cool that there’s multiple different ways.” 
Senior art show opening ‘Petals and Paths’ culminates themes of family, nature through ceramics
A man works at the counter at The Bread Lounge. Loaves of bread lined the shelves at this bakery that prides itself on its bountiful offerings.
Review: Bread Lounge delivers delicious, doughy treats, unique experience
The bag customers at Sockerbit, a Swedish candy store, use to hold their delicious sweets is displayed. My favorites included their sour coke and lemon skulls and strawberry gummies.
Review: Sockerbit provides sweet escape into world of Swedish candy
Sweet Rose Creamery is shown above with its vibrant logo on display. The parlor makes a vast array of delicious flavors. 
Review: Sweet Rose Creamery has wonderfully versatile, delicious ice cream
Pastries and baked goods rest in the display case at Modern Bread & Bagel. Modern Bread & Bagel is a 100% gluten-free bakery that offers dishes and flavors from across the globe.
Review: Modern Bread & Bagel: Gluten-free has never tasted this good
The Apple Pan has a classic look and feel, with their slogan outlined on all of their signs: Quality Forever. Their classic Hickoryburger has a unique, smoky flavor that Ive never tasted before.
Review: The Apple Pan is an LA classic
The middle school softball team huddles together with head coach Bre Brown. The team has won all four of their games so far. Photo by Archer Athletics.
‘They all have their own superpower’: Middle school softball team slides through beginning of season
A March Madness set-up displays multiple games and different teams merchandise. This years womens March Madness tournament, which started March 22 and concluded April 8, marked record-breaking viewership. Photo by Rebecca Lazarus.
March Madness: Students, athletic director discuss record-breaking viewership of NCAA women’s basketball
Eighth grader Andrea Fuentes pitches for the Archer middle school softball team at a home game against Brentwood School. Fuentes began playing softball when she was 4 and has pitched for the Archer team for the past three years.
Q&A with eighth grade pitcher of middle school softball team
Players on the varsity softball team gather on a field. Junior Avalon Garland said all of the positions, ranging from the pitcher to basemen, have to work together to create a strong team. Photo by Archer Athletics.
‘We have to rely on each other’: Players on varsity softball depend on each other to succeed
I work on breaststroke technique in preparation for a league swim meet. My favorite aspect of meets is encouraging my teammates in their races. Photo by Wilma Wong.
Commentary: Defining my own success in the world of competitive swimming
Ten-year-old me holds a beet in one hand in the middle of a farm. Ive been vegetarian since I was 5 — a decision I promised myself Id stay true to. Photo by Jacoba Smulders.
Op-Ed: More people should consider a vegetarian diet
This collage features a book that showcases many of the Dior collections from 1947-2017. I hand selected a couple looks from collections dating back to the 80s all the way to 2015 that incorporate the trends I discuss in this column.
Column: 2024 in fashion: What to look forward to in this year’s style
The words Advanced Placement and Advanced Study rest on opposite sides of a scale. In the 2022-2023 school year, Archer removed Advanced Placement courses, replacing them with advanced study. The editorial board reflected on this transition and shared their insights on the new courses. (Graphic Illustration by Oona Seppala and Francie Wallack) 
Editorial: Advanced study courses benefit student engagement, growth
These quotes give you a peek into Dolly Aldertons chaotic world and brilliant mind through her memoir, Everything I Know About Parties, Dates, Friends, Jobs, Life, Love. As my first memoir, I enjoyed witnessing the highs and lows of her lifetime, which lead to my subsequent existential crisis.
Column: Everything I didn’t know about memoirs
I work on breaststroke technique in preparation for a league swim meet. My favorite aspect of meets is encouraging my teammates in their races. Photo by Wilma Wong.
Commentary: Defining my own success in the world of competitive swimming
This collage features a book that showcases many of the Dior collections from 1947-2017. I hand selected a couple looks from collections dating back to the 80s all the way to 2015 that incorporate the trends I discuss in this column.
Column: 2024 in fashion: What to look forward to in this year’s style
These quotes give you a peek into Dolly Aldertons chaotic world and brilliant mind through her memoir, Everything I Know About Parties, Dates, Friends, Jobs, Life, Love. As my first memoir, I enjoyed witnessing the highs and lows of her lifetime, which lead to my subsequent existential crisis.
Column: Everything I didn’t know about memoirs
The candy aisle of a Target store represents the abundance of choices people have in our society on a day-to-day level, which can ultimately lead to decision fatigue. Decision fatigue is when you make poorer decisions due the exhaustion that comes from making a lot of previous decisions; I suggest combating it by decreasing the number of decisions you make per day, which leaves more mental energy for important choices.
Column: This or that? The problem of decision fatigue.
This image features a video of Andrew Tate’s entitled, “Outwork Everyone Else.” This photo represents how one might be sucked into his content, believing it to be empowering and motivational rather than the hateful rhetoric it truly is. It also illustrates how Tate markets his videos in an unassuming manner to draw in and indoctrinate new viewers.
Column: ‘Alpha Male Podcast Bros’ and the epidemic of misogyny
Celebrity names are connected by arrows to 4chan and Telegram logos. These are just some of the public figures who have been explicitly disfigured by AI on social platforms. (Graphic Illustration by Allie Yang)
Column: AI deepfakes denote deep consequences for all
Ten-year-old me holds a beet in one hand in the middle of a farm. Ive been vegetarian since I was 5 — a decision I promised myself Id stay true to. Photo by Jacoba Smulders.
Op-Ed: More people should consider a vegetarian diet
The words Advanced Placement and Advanced Study rest on opposite sides of a scale. In the 2022-2023 school year, Archer removed Advanced Placement courses, replacing them with advanced study. The editorial board reflected on this transition and shared their insights on the new courses. (Graphic Illustration by Oona Seppala and Francie Wallack) 
Editorial: Advanced study courses benefit student engagement, growth
The graphic illustration portrays a hand holding a heart, symbolizing a charitable nonprofit, next to a question mark. I have noticed a recent increase in youth-led nonprofit organizations, and I feel it is now more important than ever to consider the intentions behind their founding, which can affect the sustainability of such organizations in the long run. (Graphic Illustration by Melinda Wang)
Op-Ed: Passion should be the real foundation for student-led nonprofits
Freshmen Phoebe Gustafson and Lena Sakhnini look at their phones during lunch. Teens often find it hard to live without their phones on a daily basis. According to a Pew Research study, About three-quarters of teens (77%) say they use YouTube daily, while a smaller majority of teens (58%) say the same about TikTok.
Op-Ed: Charging your own battery
This photo was taken when my mom Tracy legally adopted me. We were surrounded by family and friends. Photo by Angelica Hernández.
Commentary: Growing up with an anonymous father
My sister and I went to the Aquarium of the Pacific when we were younger. Entering an aquarium can feel like entering a new world. With the wondrous sea creatures and the unique habitats, there’s always more to explore. Photo by Lara Burnap.
Fun and fulfilling: 4 places to release your inner child
This image features four album covers from the highlighted, lesser-known artists I absolutely love. Covers include “Revealer” by Madison Cunningham and “Going Through It” by Eliza McLamb. Photo credits: “Revealer” album cover courtesy of Verve Label Group. “Going Through It” album cover courtesy of Royal Mountain Records. “Vienna (In Memoriam)” album cover courtesy of New Gold Medal. “Drunk on a Flight” album cover courtesy of AWAL Recordings.
4 favorites: Smaller, alternative musicians I can’t stop listening to
A collection of cut avocados rest on a cutting board. Using these avocados, I made a giant batch of guacamole for the Super Bowl Feb. 11.
The 4 best ways to eat an avocado (besides your basic avocado toast)
TV Throwbacks: My 10 favorite 2000s shows
TV Throwbacks: My 10 favorite 2000s shows
Sixth grade Dean of Culture, Community and Belonging Natalie Kang ice climbs in Erie, Colorado, where she goes every year with her husband and friends. Its something I always look forward to for winter break. Its kind of a non-traditional Christmas or holiday choice, but its what works for us, Kang said. Photo provided by Natalie Kang.
Ice climbing, homemade wrapping paper, a Swedish Christmas: Teachers share their favorite ways to celebrate the holidays
Letter to the Editor: Archers insufficient communication about Israel
Letter to the Editor: Archer’s insufficient communication about Israel
Letter to the Editor: See the whole person
Letter to the Editor: See the whole person
Conversation with Shirin Pakfar, head of private sector partnerships for United Nations Refugee Agency
Conversation with Shirin Pakfar, head of private sector partnerships for United Nations Refugee Agency
Letter to the Editor: Sun, sand and scrumptious
Letter to the Editor: Sun, sand and scrumptious
Letter to the Editor: Food deserts
Letter to the Editor: Food deserts
Lets Go to the Movies S1E3 - Cheating on the Oscars: What is category fraud and how is it changing?
Let’s Go to the Movies S1E3 – Cheating on the Oscars: What is category fraud and how is it changing?
Broadcast: GEG hosts International Womens Day event, honors theme of Inspiring Inclusion
Broadcast: GEG hosts International Women’s Day event, honors theme of ‘Inspiring Inclusion’
The BLACKCAST S1E4 - And the award goes to: Black creatives and award shows
The BLACKCAST S1E4 – And the award goes to: Black creatives and award shows
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
Broadcast: Senior dance captain celebrates annual Night of Dance, reflects on Archer dance community
S4E9 - The Scoop on Archer’s English curriculum, impact of certain novels
S4E9 – The Scoop on Archer’s English curriculum, impact of certain novels
Lets Go to the Movies S1E3 - Cheating on the Oscars: What is category fraud and how is it changing?
Let’s Go to the Movies S1E3 – Cheating on the Oscars: What is category fraud and how is it changing?
The BLACKCAST S1E4 - And the award goes to: Black creatives and award shows
The BLACKCAST S1E4 – And the award goes to: Black creatives and award shows
S4E9 - The Scoop on Archer’s English curriculum, impact of certain novels
S4E9 – The Scoop on Archer’s English curriculum, impact of certain novels
S4E8 - The Scoop on student journalist Lisa, her perspective on student censorship
S4E8 – The Scoop on student journalist Lisa, her perspective on student censorship
S4E7 - The Scoop on students’ passion-led service projects
S4E7 – The Scoop on students’ passion-led service projects
The Latest
The student news site of The Archer School for Girls

The Oracle
The student news site of The Archer School for Girls

The Oracle
Greta Irvine

Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief

Greta Irvine joined the Oracle as a staff reporter in 2020 and became the News Editor in 2021. In 2022, she became the Editor-in-Chief. She graduated in 2023.

 

 

All content by Greta Irvine
The Archer administration and the Jewish Student Union organized affinity spaces Tuesday, Oct. 10, for students to process the attacks in Israel, which began Saturday, Oct. 7. The JSU Executive Board and school administrators will continue organizing additional presentations and discussions in the coming week.

[Photo] Adminstration, JSU organize affinity spaces, meetings following attacks in Israel

By Maia Alvarez, Features Editor
October 13, 2023
The front cover of the Nationals new album, First Two Pages of Frankenstein, features a photograph of a young boy holding a mannequins head. The ninth album in their catalog finds the rock band examining sadness with a newfound softness.

Review: The National re-examines their sadness in ‘First Two Pages of Frankenstein’

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 17, 2023
Senior Sydney Frank films seniors Margaret Morris and Letizia Oetker in ski gear at the beach for a lip-syncing video. The students in the French Senior Seminar class went to the beach March 8 to film their submission for the inaugural ARCHERVISION competition.

World Language Department launches music video contest: ARCHERVISION

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
April 30, 2023
Dr. Lisa Damour speaks to the upper school March 6 in the Zeller Student Center. Damour gave presentations to the entire student body, faculty and parents on her research specializing in the development of teenage girls and young women.

Dr. Lisa Damour presents to students, faculty, parents on research on development of teenage girls, young women

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 9, 2023
Senior Alyssa Ponrartana presents her research project at Archer’s annual Student STEM Symposium May 14, 2022. Ponrartana was named a scholar in the 82nd Regeneron Science Talent Search for her research intersecting neurodevelopment and environment.

Senior Alyssa Ponrartana named Regeneron Scholar for neurodevelopmental research

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 31, 2023
Senior Ella Poon receives a COVID-19 booster shot in the Lantern Room. Archer hosted a COVID-19 booster clinic Dec. 9 with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Archer hosts voluntary COVID-19 booster clinic with LACDPH

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
December 10, 2022
The New York Times tracks the 2022 midterm election results. Democrats have secured control over the Senate, and Republicans have secured control over the House of Representatives elections with six seats still not called. 

[Photo] ‘Young people will decide this election’: Archer students learn about their impact on 2022 midterm elections

By Rose Sarner, Culture Editor
November 29, 2022
Protestors march down a street in Downtown, Los Angeles near Pershing Square. The protest, responding to the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran, took place mid October, and senior Delara Tehranchi took part in the demonstration with her family.

Iranian students respond to women’s revolution in Iran, implore community to take action

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
November 6, 2022
Sophomore Dylan Evans-Robinson hugs senior Uma Bajaj after giving her a speech during the varsity volleyball senior night celebration. The celebration occurred 10/13 following a home game against Pacifica Christian School.

A fan-tastic game: Community members swarm to varsity volleyball senior night

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
October 25, 2022
Censorship has been raging in the United States, threatening classrooms and beyond. This nation-wide issue should be at the forefront of more minds.

[Photo] Editorial: Censorship is on our minds, it should be on yours

By 22-23 Editorial Board
September 30, 2022
Archer leadership announced the Health and Safety Protocols for this school year. The main changes in the protocols compared to last year are that masking is optional and there is no surveillance testing. 

[Photo] Hurricane Hilary delays orientation, causes remote College Jumpstart

August 19, 2023
News headlines of three school shootings, including the mass shooting last week at Robb Elementary school. In a nation frequently grieving from school shootings, is time we, the students, answer the question, What makes us feel safe?

[Photo] Editorial: What makes us feel safe?

By 21-22 Oracle Editorial Board
May 31, 2022
Members of the junior class pose for a photo during their Arrow Week trip in Wyoming. The expenses for this excursion are included within the Flexible Tuition program.

Flexible Tuition program reduces barriers to entry, students hope for servery coverage in future

By Vaughan Anoa'i and Greta Irvine
May 23, 2022
Junior Dani Fenster works on a homework sheet while wearing a mask in math teacher Matthew Barthas classroom. On May 4, the indoor mask mandate took effect once again due to the rising cases on campus.

Mask from the past: Indoor mask mandate reinstated until further notice

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 4, 2022
Multiple seniors tested positive for COVID-19 Wednesday, April 27, on rapid home tests. Campus PCR testing from April 25 reported a 0% positivity rate.

COVID-19 campus update: Multiple seniors test positive on rapid tests

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
April 28, 2022
A still from senior Bess Frierson’s film, “Mush Room,” is pictured above. Frierson opened her senior show in the Eastern Star Gallery March 14, where visitors watched the five minute film projected on a wall.

When English and art collide: Senior Bess Frierson opens ‘The MUSH Room’

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 31, 2022
Math teacher Matthew Bartha explains classwork to juniors Dani Fenster and Sophie Wallack. Community members could decide whether or not to wear a mask in indoor spaces beginning March 14.

Student masking behavior, reactions following lift of indoor mask mandate

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 19, 2022
#DemocracyInAction: Community members share thoughts on freedom of press

#DemocracyInAction: Community members share thoughts on freedom of press

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
February 25, 2022
Junior Maya Bajaj works in the library courtyard with her mask on. Archer removed its outdoor mask mandate Feb. 16 for vaccinated students and employees. Its just an instinct to wear a mask, Bajaj said. I dont really notice it anymore.

Outdoor mask policy updated following declining COVID-19 cases

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
February 25, 2022
Sophomore Lacey Thompson sits visits the Eastern Star Gallery exhibit Drunk Tank Pink. Junior Olivia Torrington spearheaded the show that explores a shade of pink and its calming effects.

‘A little experiment on color’: Eastern Star Gallery opens interactive exhibit ‘Drunk Tank Pink’

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 31, 2022
Multiple seniors tested positive for COVID-19 Wednesday, April 27, on rapid home tests. Campus PCR testing from April 25 reported a 0% positivity rate.

Course offerings updated for 2022-2023 school year

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 31, 2022
After each week of testing, community members receive an email detailing the positivity rate on campus as shown in the paper above. As the school year carries on and so does the pandemic, the transparency of our administration concerning COVID-19 developments on campus is vital in quelling the stress and fear of the community.

[Photo] Editorial: COVID-19 transparency is the vital vaccine

By 21-22 Oracle Editorial Board
February 3, 2022
Junior Rose Sarner gets tested for COVID-19 in the library courtyard on Wednesday, Oct. 20. All community members participate in a weekly testing program with Laboratory Services of America. Archer leaders are notified of any positive cases each week allowing them to take necessary action to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Friday test results delayed as in-person learning begins, students share concerns

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 11, 2022
Multiple seniors tested positive for COVID-19 Wednesday, April 27, on rapid home tests. Campus PCR testing from April 25 reported a 0% positivity rate.

Campus incident occurs Dec. 15, Archer leaders respond

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
December 28, 2021
A window of a bathroom is defaced with wet toilet paper. This is the second bathroom whose ceilings, walls and windows were vandalized this week with wet toilet paper and paper towels.

Students vandalize school bathrooms, Archer leaders respond

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
December 5, 2021
uniors Letizia Oetker, Azel Al-Kadiri and Margaret Morris sit in a hallway before class studying for an upcoming biology test.

Commentary: My first full year of in-person high school 

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
December 1, 2021

Clark Street

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
November 29, 2021
This image posted by the CDC is a magnified picture of the Covid-19 virus. The CDC has officially approved the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for individuals five to 11 years old prompting Archer leaders to expand the vaccination requirements to all students.

Administration expands vaccination requirements following CDC approval

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
November 7, 2021
Junior Rose Sarner gets tested for COVID-19 in the library courtyard on Wednesday, Oct. 20. All community members participate in a weekly testing program with Laboratory Services of America. Archer leaders are notified of any positive cases each week allowing them to take necessary action to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Two students test positive for COVID-19, protocols followed

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
October 20, 2021
Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) board member Remi Cannon (24) poses for a photo in front of a rainbow flag and GSA informational poster during the National Coming out Day and Queer History Month celebration on Oct. 14. The entire community was invited to attend the celebration in the courtyard which featured music from queer artists and a variety of activites.

GSA hosts celebration for National Coming Out Day and Queer History Month

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
October 19, 2021
A student waits to get her PCR COVID-19 test in the library courtyard on The testing program, previously done with Laboratory Services of America and now with Innovative Health Diagnostics, is one measure taken to limit community exposure to COVID-19. On Oct. 6, the community will be transitioning to weekly COVID-19 testing for all students, faculty and staff as opposed to the biweekly testing for vaccinated community members.

Safety first: COVID-19 protocols and policies implemented for the 2021-2022 school year

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
October 2, 2021
A sign reminding community members to obey masking protocols is displayed on the door of the library. Other signs like this instructing students, faculty, staff and visitors to follow health and safety protocols in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are displayed around campus.

Two members of Archer community test positive for COVID-19

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
September 9, 2021
A group of sophomore students converse at lunch during the first week of school. As new cell phone practices were introduced to the upper school during a virtual meeting, students look to engage with one another during free time while minimizing technology use.

Connection protection: New cell phone practices introduced to the upper school

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
September 7, 2021
Seniors and their families listen to the welcome speech delivered by Head of School Elizabeth English at the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021. Situated in the Eastern Star courtyard on the Archer campus, the seniors, dressed in the traditional white attire with flower wreaths on top of their heads, sat socially distanced to watch the ceremony live as well as on two projected screens featuring videos from Oprah, Brandi Carlile, and the grade themselves. The in-person graduation had this collective energy. There was a lot of heightened emotion — a lot of tears flowing but also great compassion for one another, student body president Francesca Cappello said. 

‘A love-filled ceremony:’ Senior class partakes in an in-person graduation

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
June 4, 2021
The Class of 2021 poses in front of the fountain in the Eastern Star courtyard after squirting one another with water for the adapted tradition, the fountain jump, on their last day of classes. After getting drenched in water, senior Ava Salomon described the event as the best kind of hectic.

[Photo] Splashing into summer: Seniors share perspectives on refashioned fountain jump

May 26, 2021
The Class of 2021 poses in front of the fountain in the Eastern Star courtyard after squirting one another with water for the adapted tradition, the fountain jump, on their last day of classes. After getting drenched in water, senior Ava Salomon described the event as the best kind of hectic.

[Photo] Splashing into summer: Seniors share perspectives on refashioned fountain jump

By Chloe Fidler, Voices Editor
May 26, 2021
Upper school students watch a performance from the musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, on May 6 via Zoom. The students had the chance to preview the upper school musical and purchase tickets for streaming the following night at 7 p.m. “I was really, really impressed with how the whole production came together…and I am proud of the hard work put into it as well,” Isabelle Verdery (’23), who was cast as Janet, said.

‘A fruitful endeavor:’ The upper school puts on virtual performance of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 24, 2021
The conversation around pronouns has evolved with great speed in recent years. As there is a growing visibility of the transgender community and individuals beyond the binary, the topic of pronouns has gained an increased focus in school and work environments as well as on social media.

‘One small gesture that goes a long way:’ The evolving topic of pronouns

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 20, 2021
Seniors Mackenzie Turner, Lola Lamberg, Amelia Stone and Ava Salomon pose for a photo at the rose backdropped photo booth on May 1 during the evening senior prom celebration. The booth, set-up at Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, created a really fun atmosphere that everyone was enjoying.. and it was a place to connect, fitness and wellness teacher Dani LeNoir said.

Mamma Mia, it’s prom again! Senior class attends ‘unconventional’ prom celebration

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 16, 2021
The counter at Bianca displays the days pastries, ranging from banana bread to olive oil cake by the slice. Located at Platform LA, Bianca serves as both a bakery and restaurant for the Culver City area.

Review: Bianca Bakery brings Europe to your plate

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
May 7, 2021
The Executive Board next year will be comprised entirely of seniors. The position of Student Body President goes to Langdon Janos, as she received the most votes from the rising upper schoolers. The Executive Board will be comprised of Nyah Fernandez, Marissa Gendy and Bess Frierson.

[Photo] BREAKING: Student Council Executive Board election results announced

By Oracle Staff
May 7, 2021
In most forms of writing, exclamation points are used sparingly for emphasis of certain words or phrases. However, exclamation points seem to have taken on another purpose for women when communicating.

Op-Ed: Why do women communicate with so many exclamation points!?

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 21, 2021
The front of Archer on March 13, 2020, the last day of on-campus school activity. On March 8, 2021, in-person learning will officially begin again as the sixth graders arrive to attend class on the Archer campus for the first time.

‘Second first day of school:’ Sixth grade class returns to campus for in-person learning orientation

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 7, 2021
Members of the Speech and Debate team join together on Zoom after a successful league tournament the last weekend in January. Five members collectively placed in six different categories leaving the team excited for future tournaments, as Admin Captain Rachel Azrialy wrote in an instagram caption on the Archer Speech and Debate Instagram account. 

‘Some challenges, some triumphs:’ Speech and Debate team adjust virtually

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
March 6, 2021
Wednesday of the 2021 Scholastic Journalism Week highlights the significance of local journalism. The Oracle takes a closer look by asking community members to reflect on the impact of local journalism on the Archer campus.

Local journalism matters: Q&A with community members on importance of local journalism

By Thea Leimone and Greta Irvine
February 24, 2021
Executive Board members await the announcement for the winners of the first ever Archer Ted Talk Competition in the all-school assembly. This Zoom assembly took place Friday, Feb. 5 to celebrate and conclude the first ever virtual Color Wars.

Pinks, purples, reds and yellows: Annual Color Wars event transforms to fit the online setting

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
February 14, 2021
The middle school Orchestra performs a song during the Winter Concert. The musicians recorded two videos, one for audio and one for visual, which were then edited together and added to virtual background and streamed on Vimeo.

Musical magic: Winter Concert adapts to virtual setting

By Thea Leimone and Greta Irvine
February 11, 2021
As the pandemic continues to have devastating impacts, adhering to public safety guidelines remains a necessary task. However, social media posts featuring social engagements that violate these guidelines cause expansive harm by encouraging risky behavior and spreading misinformation.

Op-Ed: The harmful effects of posting on social media while violating COVID-19 guidelines

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
February 6, 2021
German film, Run Lola Run, released in 1998, follows Lola on her attempt to save her criminal boyfriend. The upbeat plot, clever cinematography, and captivating protagonists make the foreign film a must watch.

Review: ‘Run Lola Run’ is the change of pace you need right now

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
February 6, 2021
Sophomore, Isabelle Verdery, performs a song over Zoom during an audition for the upper school musical, The Drowsy Chaperone. The live singing auditions were designed to simulate what we would have done in person, director Reed Farley said. The live auditions were accompanied by self recorded monologues and group readings. 

Break a leg! …virtually: Upper school musical auditions begin

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 31, 2021
Juliet, played by eighth-grader Sienna Schlesinger, stabs herself with a Minecraft sword during the performance of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ streamed on Vimeo, Friday, Dec. 11. The choice to use a Minecraft sword as the dagger reflects the decision to not provide props (or costumes), created a sense of ownership and joy in the process that might not have been there otherwise, Director Reed Farley said. 

Unmute, cameras on, action!: Middle school puts on a virtual production of ‘Romeo and Juliet’

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
January 8, 2021
After hours of volunteering as a poll observer on election day, Nov. 3rd, Charlotte Tragos captures a photo of the voting site in Las Vegas, Nevada. “[Dani and I] were eating marshmallows in the trunk of the car while watching the voters outside the site,” Tragos said while recalling the moment she took the photo.

Sophomores Charlotte Tragos, Dani Fenster volunteer as poll observers in 2020 presidential election

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
December 10, 2020
Middle School President Rachel Chung leads the newly elected sixth and seventh grade representatives along with the eighth grade representatives through their first virtual meeting of the school year. During the Zoom, the young leaders planned for future middle school gatherings. “I love these meetings so much [...] because all of us work together to do the best for our grade,” Rachel said.

Rachel Chung leads middle school through pandemic

By Greta Irvine, Editor in Chief
November 16, 2020
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