The Student News Site of Walt Whitman High School

The Black and White
The Student News Site of Walt Whitman High School

The Black and White
The Student News Site of Walt Whitman High School

The Black and White
Vassili Prokopenko

Vassili Prokopenko, Online Production Head

Grade 12

Why did you join The B&W?

To improve my art and design skills.

What is your favorite board game?

Blokus

All content by Vassili Prokopenko
Since the Dobbs decision severely weakened the legal foundation on which each of these and other privacy-based cases depend, the fundamental rights these decisions have guaranteed the American people are in imminent danger.

[Photo] Abortion rights aren’t the only thing under threat in today’s Supreme Court

By Colette Yehl
June 24, 2025
The pressure to play on elite teams is high, especially in competitive communities like Whitman and at neighboring schools.

[Photo] The price of play: How rising costs are impacting youth sports

By Kavya Rajani
May 13, 2025
For the upcoming school year, MCPS is evaluating proposed changes to final grade calculations, starting with incoming ninth grade students to better reflect their abilities.

[Photo] MCPS to change grading policy for the 2025-2026 school year

By Ellie Xu
April 27, 2025
Esports culture has grown exponentially with this year’s current revenue reaching $4.3 billion. Despite Esports’ massive cult following, skeptics still question the sport’s legitimacy.

[Photo] Weighing the case for Esports

By Stefano Ninassi and Robert Graham
December 12, 2024
Some psychiatrists and neuroscientists have been using the term “digital dementia” to describe the cognitive impairments caused by excessive screen usage.

[Photo] Digital dementia: Screenagers make “brain rot” literal

By Maria Garcia-Musalem
October 8, 2024
The new group replaces the Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Committee, which included BOE members Julie Yang, Brenda Wolff and Shebra Evans. 

[Photo] Board of Education passes proposed amendment to homework policy

By Shahmeer Ali
June 30, 2024
Many teenagers’ packed school and extracurricular schedules only delay the rise of melatonin levels — which help signal the body to shut down for the night — by producing stress, keeping the body awake.

[Photo] 5 ways to improve your sleep schedule as a high schooler

By Abby Ikenson
June 19, 2024
Since 1870, girls’ literacy levels in U.S. public schools have consistently surpassed boys’. As early as fourth grade, girls read around 100,000 more words a year than boys.

[Photo] The cost of academic excellence: Balancing AP classes and mental health

By Jose Urzua
June 18, 2024
Screenshot 2024-06-10 194033

[Photo] MCPS announces removal of asynchronous days for the 2024-2025 school year

By Dani Cotlear
June 10, 2024
My doctor tried to explain to me what the diagnosis meant, but all my 10-year-old self could focus on was the word disorder. “Disorder” meant something was wrong with me.

[Photo] How taking the label out of ADHD helped me find myself

January 31, 2024
Staying on top of assignments can be overwhelming, especially for students who need help completing them to begin with.

[Photo] Five free apps to help you succeed in school

February 4, 2025
Feminine_fashion

ADHD

The gendering of everyday things perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines the achievements of women. Shying away from labeling with negative connotations to a specific gender will eliminate the breeding ground for harmful stereotypes. 

[Photo] The danger of gendering trends: An exploration of "girl dinner" and "girl math"

December 10, 2023
Given the freedom to learn about and state opinions on current events, social media users should be mindful of how the content they create influences others and how the media they consume influences themselves.

[Photo] News in the Digital Age: Navigating the polarized spectrum of social issues

December 1, 2023
Today, consumers cannot trust that deals and discounts are saving them money — blurring the lines between tricks and genuine sales. 

[Photo] Consuming in a digital world: The battlefield of online shopping

December 4, 2023
I was outgoing and flamboyant with my friends, but when I was with family, I reined in my energy and presented a dull shell of myself.

[Photo] How embracing my sexuality saved my relationship with my family

November 15, 2023
As someone who’s been through it, I can confidently say that things can and will get better.

[Photo] “It is worth taking the winding path to recovery”: My journey on antidepressants

November 14, 2023
Holiday Spirit

While fitness culture promotes discipline, motivation and muscular development, the extreme physical and mental damage of such a culture overshadows the positive aspects.

[Photo] The hidden toxicity in “gym bro” culture

January 26, 2024
BWcrossword

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, MoCo businesses will no longer be allowed to provide customers plastic bags at checkout, except for certain items like fresh meat, prescription drugs and dry cleaning.

[Photo] Montgomery County bans plastic bags at retail stores, doubles paper bag tax

March 11, 2025
UMD_FieldHockey

[Photo] Terps Field Hockey Weekly: Maryland Field Hockey season ends in NCAA tournament

November 19, 2023
sports

[Photo] Boys lacrosse falls to Urbana 12–7 state semifinals

May 18, 2025
The roster limits vary by sport and are part of the House v. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) settlement, which will overhaul the current system of college sports.

[Photo] How the NCAA v. House Settlement Affects High School Athletes

May 19, 2025
ThroughOurEyes-768x512

[Photo] Through Our Eyes: Episode 1 – Sonia’s Story

By Sonia Weliwitigoda
May 31, 2023
It was the final days of summer when “Black Myth: Wukong” — a new video game taking place in ancient China — entered the spotlight.

[Photo] Critics vs. Gamers: The widening gap between reviews and reality

November 20, 2024
Students cheat for various reasons — college expectations, stress and pure exhaustion. These pressures have created an environment within the community that encourages academic dishonesty, creating a culture of cheating at Whitman.

[Photo] A culture of cheating: systemic roots and COVID repercussions

June 6, 2023
Since OpenAI’s 2022 unveiling of ChatGPT for the public — the first major generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, teachers — parents and school administrators have worried about its impact on students’ education.

[Photo] How high school students are using AI today

October 28, 2024
Rather than relying on a simple detector, a focus on education and self-improvement will benefit students’ mental and physical health in a much more profound way.

[Photo] Detectors are not the answer: Whitman needs more effective vape-prevention strategies

June 22, 2023
Just this past planting season, Tree Montgomery planted over 3,800 trees, Forest Conservation Coordinator Laura Miller said.

[Photo] Tree Montgomery: A free program bringing benefits to Montgomery County through shade trees

June 1, 2023
The Last of Us

Coding Education

Capitals

Taylor Swift released four songs at midnight before her debut of "The Eras Tour" on March 17.

[Photo] Taylor Swift releases four songs to kick off “The Eras Tour”

March 17, 2023
Anti-Semitism Opinion

[Photo] Bill mandating Holocaust education in Maryland schools fails

June 13, 2024
Roald Dahl Censorship

New Albums

Spectators and coaches can get into a mindset of invincibility, in which their words don’t have consequences, and referees are objects to boss around.

[Photo] Calling the shots

March 14, 2023
Keeping up with current global events doesn’t make us policy nerds or political junkies; it makes us decent humans and educated citizens.

[Photo] Whitman students: keep up with current events — not just the Kardashians

March 8, 2023
Referee Blog

The “Cupid Shuffle” will take place from 7:30-11:30 p.m. and feature student DJs, a photo booth, raffles, food and games. 

[Photo] SGA to host new Charity Month dance Feb. 11

February 3, 2023
Valentine's Dance

Even if a person fails, they gain invaluable knowledge and have an opportunity to learn more about success. With the right people by your side, there is little doubt that you will succeed in your goals.

[Photo] Beyond the bunny hills: Why pushing your limits makes you a better skier

March 13, 2025
MCPS launched its new Blended Learning Program for Long-Term Medically Impacted Students (BLP), Nov. 6. The program replaced the Montgomery Virtual Academy (MVA), which the Board of Education eliminated earlier this year due to budget constraints.

[Photo] Blended Learning Program replaces Montgomery Virtual Academy

December 13, 2024
The College and Career Readiness departments across MCPS should focus on extending their resources to students earlier on so they are better prepared for the admissions process. 

[Photo] College counseling: Students need more help, earlier on

January 4, 2023
On the first day of school, I never knew what to say when my teachers asked what I did over the summer. I didn’t have anything worth sharing. My summers were all the same: I would witness my peers galavanting off to all ends of the world while I was stuck at home.

[Photo] The importance of traveling in your teenage years: My experience leaving the country

October 31, 2024
While 2022 wasn’t perfect, as no year can be, it marked an important transition to a post-pandemic society.

[Photo] Forget the Grammys. Here are The Black & White’s best albums of 2022.

February 5, 2023
As people cultivate a passion for the adventure of life, this includes adventuring into new cuisines.

[Photo] Eating outside my comfort zone: How spicing up my palate spiced up my life

March 16, 2023
Simulations similar to the AP Lang elections are seen in various forms across classrooms at Whitman. Formats such as debates and mock trials allow students to learn about issues in an unconventional structure rather than through traditional teaching methods like slideshows or textbooks.

[Photo] Innovative teaching: A look into simulations at Whitman

May 30, 2024
McCurdy’s blunt writing style feels like witnessing a horrific accident; I desperately wanted to look away, but couldn’t.

[Photo] Jennette McCurdy’s “I’m Glad My Mom Died”: An essential read

December 21, 2022
Hot Girl Walk Blog

Stressbusters

County officials and community members worked quickly to remove the painted images, but pictures of the graffiti continued to circulate on social media platforms in the following days.

[Photo] “Are we in danger?”: Community members reflect after antisemitism hits close to home

By Dani Klein and Meredith Lee
December 2, 2022
Antisemitic Graffiti

Each celebration involves flavorsome food, but the traditions native to students’ home countries diverge in many aspects.

[Photo] Markets, maracas and midnight meals: International students share their Christmas traditions

December 27, 2022
“The Hunt,” a 2020 horror and political satire film, uniquely illustrates the extent of America’s ideological divisions.

[Photo] Why political satire like “The Hunt” is more relevant now than ever

March 29, 2023
HalloweenGraphic

[Photo] Halloween by the numbers: Whitman students reflect on the haunted holiday

November 1, 2022
Teens may let worries of rejection discourage them from applying to a job, but some degree of spontaneity is the only way to push oneself, Corazzi explained. Teens should follow their instincts and pursue their desires when job-searching.

[Photo] The Black and White’s guide to summer jobs

May 26, 2024
As draft night on April 24 is fast approaching, this is The Black & White’s 2025 Commanders mock draft.

[Photo] Week 4: Three keys for a Commanders triumph over division rival Cowboys on Sunday

By Waleed Aslam
October 2, 2022
If the Commanders defense can tighten up while the offense stays consistent, they will be in great shape to take down the NFC East favorites.

[Photo] Week 3: Three keys for a Commanders upset over division rival Eagles on Sunday

By Waleed Aslam
September 25, 2022
If the Commanders are able to shut down D'Andre Swift while also getting pressure in Jared Goff’s face, they will be in great shape to take down the Lions.

[Photo] Week 2: Three keys for a Commanders victory over the Lions

By Waleed Aslam
September 18, 2022
The fascinating take on modern media depicts child stars who go to extreme lengths to stay relevant in today’s online mecca and exposes the darker side of Hollywood that lends itself to the poor treatment of faded stars.

[Photo] Movie Review: “Nope” shines a spotlight on the dark side of Hollywood

November 19, 2022
As the world mourns her passing, Whitman students and staff reflected on the Queen’s death and legacy.

[Photo] “To lose a part of your culture is devastating”: students and staff reflect on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II

September 12, 2022
Washington Commanders

[Photo] Week 1: Three takeaways from the Commanders thrilling victory over the Jaguars

September 14, 2022
It soon became clear that certain factors were within my control, like how much time I spent studying for a test or the people I chose to become friends with, and that stressing out over things that were out of my control wasn’t productive. Instead, I found peace in accepting the chaos.

[Photo] How I learned to let go: my experience with the floating rock mentality

June 19, 2022
One day, waking up before the crack of dawn may no longer be necessary for me to feel in control of my anxiety. But for now, getting out of bed at 5 a.m. is one of my favorite parts of the day; I’m proud of myself for finding a unique way to improve my well-being.

[Photo] I wake up at 5:00 a.m. — and I love it

June 2, 2022
“When the coaches hit [the post], you’re winning that game,” Howell said. “There’s no doubt you’re winning that game. Obviously, you’re trying your hardest — you’re pushing yourself — but it’s that extra guarantee.”

[Photo] Whitman's lucky charms: Athletes share their sports superstitions

September 2, 2022
Almost 860 MCPS teachers are resigning or retiring from their positions by the end of the school year. The latest figure represents approximately 6.5% of the school district’s teaching staff.

[Photo] Approximately 6.5% of MCPS teachers to resign or retire by end of year; departures increase districtwide

May 29, 2022
Whitman teachers should capitalize on the leeway in MCPS’ curriculum to incorporate other mediums of education into English classes.

[Photo] Whitman teachers: expand beyond just the books

June 5, 2022
3.5/5

MCPS decided to remove its practice of contact tracing in schools, leaving some community members concerned about COVID-19 virus transmission.

[Photo] MCPS ends contact tracing in schools

May 12, 2022
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” is a chaotically entertaining film and the directors’ courage to be boldly absurd pays off immensely.

[Photo] “Everything Everywhere All at Once”: weird in all the right ways

June 14, 2022
SMOB Candidates

Sustainability at Whitman

The College Board intends to make the digital SAT simple in terms of time and resources by no longer requiring test administrators to pass out equipment and limiting the amount of pre-test instruction given to test-takers.

[Photo] Whitman reacts: First online SAT to debut March 2024

October 12, 2023
Congressman Jamie Raskin's recent book is no ordinary political memoir; it's a tribute to his late son and to democracy.

[Photo] In Jamie Raskin’s “Unthinkable,” a love letter to his son and to democracy

January 29, 2022
It's long past time for American lawmakers to implement common sense gun restrictions. Students can help make this happen.

[Photo] Whitman students: demand action on gun safety

March 13, 2022
In the spirit of both journalism and the holidays, here are the Black & White’s top 10 trending gifts this season.

[Photo] A guide to a teen’s brain: Holiday gift edition

December 21, 2021
While changing Fomz’ traditions have been an uphill battle, the group is committed to rebranding themselves as an inclusive and spirited group of dancers.

[Photo] “We are moving forward”: A new era of Fomz begins

January 19, 2022
Rapid Antigen Testing

The series "The Owl House," which Disney foolishly cancelled over the summer, is more than just entertaining; it helps to normalize queerness in children’s media.

[Photo] The Owl House deserves better

November 3, 2021
The first Montgomery County Regional Student Government Association (MCR-SGA) general assembly of the year took place at Montgomery Blair High School, Oct. 23.

[Photo] MCR-SGA hosts annual general assembly meeting at Blair High School

November 8, 2024
Sports Superstitions

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