The student-run newspaper of Westridge School for Girls, Spyglass strives to build community and evoke empathy through the medium of journalism. Comprised of passionate student writers, editors, designers, managers, and leaders, Spyglass is dedicated to ethical reporting that amplifies our unique voices to inform, entertain, and forge connection in the Westridge community and beyond.

Spyglass
With schedules released on orientation, many Upper School students felt overwhelmed and unprepared.
Schedule Release Timeline Met with Mixed Teacher and Student Reaction
Some Upper Schoolers have found difficulty reacclimatizing to the rigor of coursework and homework. Still, many are optimistic about this academic year.
Coming Back to School: Students Find Community in a Stressful Reality
Hope in Action's official logo.
Westridge Seniors Turn Hope into Action by Giving Back to Immigrant Communities
An old, sun-bleached American flag hangs in front of the Main Hall building.
Faculty Seek to Preserve Student Opportunities Despite Uncertainty Amidst Trump’s Policies
The international college journey begins for Westridge alumna Lily Johnson ’25 who is attending university in Scotland!
Adventure, Lower Costs, and an Escape: the International College Thrill for Westridge Students
Humans of Westridge: Meet the “First Husband of Westridge,” Tim McKenna
Humans of Westridge: Meet the “First Husband of Westridge,” Tim McKenna
Sydney S. '25 posing for a picture in the car.
Humans Of Westridge: “Songwriting is my Safe Space.” Sydney S. ’25 On What Art Means to Her
Ms. Keller in 2016 jammin’, or also known as the point scorer, skating around the turn. “I think it’s just a great sport for anyone that wants to find another identity," Ms. Keller said about the sport.
Humans of Westridge: Westridge’s Very Own Roller Girl Ms. Shannon Keller
Alice C. '25 and the cast of Newsies rehearse a dance sequence two weeks before opening night.
A Day in the Life of the Lead in Westridge’s Upcoming Musical Newsies: Alice C. ’25
PC: Gia S. ’25. Willow and some of the Westridgettes posing before their first performance.
Humans of Westridge: 10 Questions with the Westridge Tiger Willow N. ’25
Following Charlie Kirk's death, talk of his killing crept into classroom discussions.
OPINION: In the Wake of Charlie Kirk’s Death, I Am Choosing Humanity Over Politics
OPINION: Since You Have to Read It, Try to Appreciate It; Why and How to Enjoy School-Required Reading.
OPINION: Since You Have to Read It, Try to Appreciate It; Why and How to Enjoy School-Required Reading.
The album cover to "Who's the Clown."
REVIEW: It’s Messy, It’s Awkward, and It’s Authentically Audrey
The cast of IVRT's Newsies doing silly poses. (DawnEllen Ferry)
OPINION: If You Love It, Go For It.
OPINION: Senior Spring Was Miserable. It Doesn’t Have to be That Way for Future Classes.
OPINION: Senior Spring Was Miserable. It Doesn’t Have to be That Way for Future Classes.
Humans of Westridge: Meet the “First Husband of Westridge,” Tim McKenna
Humans of Westridge: Meet the “First Husband of Westridge,” Tim McKenna
Sydney S. '25 posing for a picture in the car.
Humans Of Westridge: “Songwriting is my Safe Space.” Sydney S. ’25 On What Art Means to Her
Ms. Keller in 2016 jammin’, or also known as the point scorer, skating around the turn. “I think it’s just a great sport for anyone that wants to find another identity," Ms. Keller said about the sport.
Humans of Westridge: Westridge’s Very Own Roller Girl Ms. Shannon Keller
Alice C. '25 and the cast of Newsies rehearse a dance sequence two weeks before opening night.
A Day in the Life of the Lead in Westridge’s Upcoming Musical Newsies: Alice C. ’25
PC: Gia S. ’25. Willow and some of the Westridgettes posing before their first performance.
Humans of Westridge: 10 Questions with the Westridge Tiger Willow N. ’25
With the rising of artificial intelligence, Spyglass's Editorial Board decided to prohibit the use of generative AI in all aspects of the Spyglass production. We will not use AI chatbots to produce writing, Design Team thumbnails, photo images, or to assist in editing within our newsroom.
EDITORIAL: Spyglass Says No to Artificial Intelligence
Credit: Jane K.
EDITORIAL: A Call for Leadership
Pancakes. Coffee. Croissants. Matcha. To many Westridge Upper School students, eating breakfast plays a large role in their morning routine, as well as having health benefits. Here’s a look into what some students’ breakfast plates look like!
What Does Breakfast Look like for Westridge Upper School students?
ASB and Admin Push for an Increase in Spirit, Expanding Community Engagement and Support
ASB and Admin Push for an Increase in Spirit, Expanding Community Engagement and Support
The Westridge community gathers on the Quad on Convocation morning.
How Head of School and ASB President Prepared their 2025 Convocation Speeches to Bring Perspective and Excitement for the New Year
Headlines from national media coverage reflect the divided response to Charlie Kirk’s death, ranging from tributes to indifference.
Death of Conservative Activist Leaves Students Shocked and Morally Conflicted
The Commons Gets A New Layout
The Commons Gets A New Layout
Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions
Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions
Green Guerilla members and other Westridge students holding protest signs at the candle light vigil. There were around 15 Westridge affiliates in attendance.
“Carbon Free by 2030”: Westridge Students and Faculty Gather at City Hall with Pasadena 100 to Commemorate Clean Energy Resolution’s Anniversary
Pip D. '27 and Claire H. '28 have found temporary living arrangements with their Westridge best friends.
Living With a Friend During the Eaton Fire: Offering “Ecstatic” Support
Donations and Volunteering Opportunities: How You Can Get Involved in Fire Relief Efforts
Donations and Volunteering Opportunities: How You Can Get Involved in Fire Relief Efforts
The ban will reframe how both students and admission officers approach future applications.
Westridge Reacts to California’s Decision to Ban Legacy and Donor Consideration in the College Admissions Process
Dr. Zanita Kelly, Director of Lower and Middle School, pictured above, and the rest of Westridge Administration were instrumental to providing Westridge faculty and staff the support they needed after the Eaton fire. "[Teachers] are part of the community," said Dr. Kelly. "Just like our families and students."
After the Eaton Fire, Westridge Support Includes Teachers and Staff
OPINION: Postcard from 103 Days After the Fire
OPINION: Postcard from 103 Days After the Fire
In the wake of the Eaton fire, Westridge launched the Community Relief Fund to provide financial support for impacted students and family.
“People Immediately Stepped Up”: Westridge Raises $450,000 to Support Fire-Affected Families
“Everybody Has Different Experiences”: Grief and Trauma Specialist Dr. Jennifer Levin Returns to Westridge to Offer Advice After Eaton Fire
“Everybody Has Different Experiences”: Grief and Trauma Specialist Dr. Jennifer Levin Returns to Westridge to Offer Advice After Eaton Fire
Postcard from 52 Days After the Fire
Postcard from 52 Days After the Fire
After 3 Years of Trailblazing Passion, Coach Nick Moves on From Westridge
After 3 Years of Trailblazing Passion, Coach Nick Moves on From Westridge
The Tigers pose with the iconic Westridge “W” hand sign after winning the Webb Tournament.
Westridge Varsity Volleyball Wins the Webb Tournament for the Second Year in A Row
The Tigers build friendships during practice, which contributes to their ability to work efficiently as a team during game.
“The Best Way to Play is to Play as a Team.” Westridge Flag Football Bounces Back with Several Wins After Initial Loss
On September 2, junior Jadyn M. verbally committed to the application process of Harvard University.
“I’ve Just Been Waiting for this Moment My Whole Life.”
Throughout the season, the players were able to create special bonds together as a team.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: Sprinting Toward the Touchdown
As the Class of 2027 navigates their way through the challenges of junior year, we are here to share our top 10 moments of when you know you are in a junior slump.
You Know You’re in Your Junior Slump When…
Etc: 10 Things I’m Not Going To Miss When School Ends
Etc: 10 Things I’m Not Going To Miss When School Ends
Etc: Top 10 Relatable Headlines From Senior Spring
Etc: Top 10 Relatable Headlines From Senior Spring
Want to truly impress your teachers with an end-of-year gift? Read this guide.
Etc.: 5 Gifts to Give to Your Teacher that Won’t End Up In a Goodwill Next Year
Ms. Cutler goes around the world in five iconic outfits!
Vogue Voyages: A Fashion Expedition with Ms. Cutler
Throughout the season, the players were able to create special bonds together as a team.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: Sprinting Toward the Touchdown
The old math workbook (left) and the new math workbook (right).
OPINION: How the New Math 7 Class Changed My Perspective
Here I am as Mr. Ferguson, my favorite role, in my favorite scene, holding my favorite prop, Baby Harold.
OPINION: My First and Last Experience in Westridge Theater
(Lillian W. '27) In the beginning of the second semester, a third math option was opened to seventh grade students, Math 7.
“Every Girl Can Do Math.” Middle School Administration Adds New Math Class
The eight representatives for eighth grade throwing the ping pong balls into the bright orange bin.
Ping Pong Balls Fly as Westridge Middle Schoolers Go Head-to-Head in Advisory Challenge
"I started nonprofit because I'm actually interested in that area, and I want to actually raise awareness for that specific topic," said senior founder of Madhatter Knits Kimberly C. She is one of several non-profit founders at Westridge.
Intent and Impact for Westridge Students Who Found Nonprofits
Photo Essay: Documenting the Loss of My Home After the Eaton Fire
Photo Essay: Documenting the Loss of My Home After the Eaton Fire
Credit: Jane K.
EDITORIAL: A Call for Leadership
On January 7, the Eaton Fire upended my life. I am still grappling with the destruction in my town—and what it means for the future.
Opinion: What Losing the Places I Love Taught Me About Community
Volunteering sites at PCC, Elks Lodge, and The WalkGood Yard, where donation drives were held.
After Devastating Eaton Fires, Westridge Students Channel Grief Into Fire Relief Efforts
  • September Edition Out Now!
The student-run newspaper of Westridge School for Girls, Spyglass strives to build community and evoke empathy through the medium of journalism. Comprised of passionate student writers, editors, designers, managers, and leaders, Spyglass is dedicated to ethical reporting that amplifies our unique voices to inform, entertain, and forge connection in the Westridge community and beyond.

Spyglass
The student-run newspaper of Westridge School for Girls, Spyglass strives to build community and evoke empathy through the medium of journalism. Comprised of passionate student writers, editors, designers, managers, and leaders, Spyglass is dedicated to ethical reporting that amplifies our unique voices to inform, entertain, and forge connection in the Westridge community and beyond.

Spyglass
Rebecca L.

Rebecca L., Managing Editor

Rebecca is a junior in her fifth year of writing for Spyglass and second year as an editor. Outside of writing articles, you’ll find her constantly in coffee shops, curating new Spotify playlists, or walking one of her 3 dogs.

All content by Rebecca L.
Screenshot 2025-09-27 at 2.51.37 PM

[Photo] The Commons Gets A New Layout

Isis L., Staff Writer
As the Class of 2027 navigates their way through the challenges of junior year, we are here to share our top 10 moments of when you know you are in a junior slump.

You Know You’re in Your Junior Slump When…

Rebecca L. and Tekle S.J.
Going down the A Line, our next stop Chinatown.

Metro Stop Highlights: Chinatown

Rebecca L. and Tekle S.J.
On September 2, junior Jadyn M. verbally committed to the application process of Harvard University.

“I’ve Just Been Waiting for this Moment My Whole Life.”

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
During the Spyglass Senior Celebration, newly elected Editor-in-Chief Valentina V. '26 gave some thoughtful remarks about my time on Spyglass.

[Photo] OPINION: Joining Spyglass as a Senior

Joss C., Staff Writer
This past year, the Los Feliz/Silverlake bus has faced multiple issues regarding the mechanics and sizing leaving students frustrated.

Nationwide Shortage of Bus Parts Impacts Westridge’s Los Feliz/Silverlake Bus

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
This past year, I noticed various illustrations taking over the whiteboards. One day they'll be blank, and by the next morning the boards will be filled with various colors and characters. I began photographing each piece throughout the year.

Mysterious ‘Banksy’ Artists Takes Over Library Whiteboards

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Going down the A Line, our next stop Historic Broadway.

Metro Stop Highlights: Historic Broadway

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
Screenshot 2025-04-27 at 3.23.42 PM

[Photo] Introducing Spyglass’ 2025–2026 Editorial Board

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Going down the A Line, our next stop Little Tokyo.

Metro Stop Highlights: Little Tokyo

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
Going down the A Line, our next stop Heritage Square.

Metro Stop Highlights: Heritage Square

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
(Rebecca L. '27 and Finley N. '28) Once again, the annual Discovery Week trips for Upper School students are met with questions about cost, equity, and direct communication.

It’s Discovery Week Season Again…and Students are Less Than Pleased with New Changes.

Tekle S-J and Rebecca L.
During the last week before Winter break, numerous teams battled on Frank Field to participate in the first ever Upper School Badminton Tournament.

“This is Like My Second Olympics”: Upper School Hosts First-Ever Badminton Tournament

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Lillian W. '27) On February 19, I went to the Arleta DMV and passed my behind-the-wheel test. Soon after, I began to reflect on my deservings to drive on the roads.

5 Reasons Why I Should Not Have My Driver License

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Kim Kercher) The group of volunteers who helped set up the February 8 drive.

Westridge Holds Donation Drive for Victims of the Eaton Fire; Welcomes 80 Families to the State Street Parking Lot Distribution Center

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
On the morning of Wednesday, January 8, 2025, smoke from the Eaton Fire crowds the sky.

“What Happens Now?”

Rebecca L. and Kristin C.
Going down the A Line, our next stop Highland Park.

Metro Stop Highlights: Highland Park

Tekle S-J and Rebecca L.
(Esperanza O-C. '26) Esperanza posing with the U-17 National Women’s Team of Nicaragua.

“It’s Just So Much More Than Just Playing Soccer.” Esperanza O. ’26 Is Selected for the U-17 National Women’s Team of Nicaragua

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Sophia Y. '26) You still awake? Spyglass followed four Upper School students to uncover the factors and habits of their sleep routines.

You Still Awake?

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Going down the A Line, our next stop South Pasadena.

Down the Metro A-Line: South Pasadena

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
Top 5 Halloween Costume Ideas: Westridge Edition

Top 5 Halloween Costume Ideas: Westridge Edition

Tekle S-J and Rebecca L.
There are total of 29 bathrooms on campus. At the beginning of the school year, Westridge changed the labels of four bathrooms.

Westridge Relabels Campus Bathroom Signs to Promote Inclusivity

Rebecca L. and Aceley P.
A sixth grader sewing for the first time, my camp group taping my face, and fourth graders playing UNO. These are the moments of why being a Tiger Camp Counselor was the highlight of my summer.

OPINION: Once a Camper, Now a Counselor: Why I Enjoyed Being a Tiger Camp Counselor this Summer

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Going down the A Line, our next stop Del Mar.

Metro Stop Highlights: Del Mar Boulevard

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
To many on the Westridge campus, sustainability is of the utmost importance. Recent developments now make Westridge more environmentally-friendly.

Earth Week is Over, But Sustainability is Still Going Strong at Westridge

Ella B. and Rebecca L.
A short series highlighting the Metro stops in Los Angeles, California, starting with Lake Avenue.

Metro Stop Highlights: Lake Avenue

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
Dreaming of a soon stressless summer

Stressless Summer

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
With demanding academics and time-consuming extracurriculars, what do Westridge students sleep habits look like?

What Do the Sleeping Schedules of Westridge Students Look Like? Spyglass Asked 200+ Students to Find Out.

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
One of the worst crimes to look out for on Westridge Campus, taking the last Breakfast Bacon Burrito.

Top 10 WORST Westridge Crimes to Look Out For

Rebecca L. and Tekle S-J
Westridge's Love for Stanleys

Hydrate or Diedrate: Westridge’s Love for Stanleys

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Skylar R. '28) Skylar R. '28 snapping a photo of the unexpected situation.

Students Late for School after Bus Gets a Flat Tire on the 134

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Official Mean Girls Poster in the Universal Studios Cinema (Credits: Rebecca Lopez)

Mean Girls (2024) Falls Short of Fetch

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Lower Schoolers enjoying their magical All School Day (Credits: Katie L. '27)

Westridge Hosts Annual All School Day with ‘Once Upon a Westridge’ Theme

Tanvi C. and Rebecca L.
Rom-Com Titles: Westridge Edition

Rom-Com Titles: Westridge Edition

Tekle S-J and Rebecca L.
The six students who attended SDLC from left to right Saba K. '25, Emmabella B. M. '25, Micaela R. '26, Isabel d. L. '26, Kanon I. '26, Shania W. '27. (Ian Tatum)

“It was probably the best experience of my sophomore year:” Six Westridge Students Attend the 2023 Student Diversity Leadership Conference

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
A student athlete walking into campus while carrying her volleyball backpack.

Making Memories and Building Community: The Student Athlete Experience

Rebecca L. and Lily C.
Los Feliz and Silverlake Bus takers posing for a photo before we head to school.

The Community On the Road: How Westridge Students Connect While Riding the Bus

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Katie L. '27) 9th Grade Students together by the Big Bear Lake

Bonds Beyond the Classroom: 9th Grade Big Bear Retreat

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
(Darren Brown) Mo’orea Island Station.

Loved by Sharks, Puppies, and Westridge Middle Schoolers, Darren Brown Returns to Westridge

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Profesora Maldonado (Photo Credit: Lilian Maldonado)

“See the seed that you planted”: Westridge Says Goodbye to Lilian Maldonado

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Students pose for a picture in the back of the bus. (Photo Credit: Katie L. ’27)

I was Lost on a Bus for Three Hours and I’m Glad it Happened

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Clara T. ’27, Eliza S. ’27, Brynn C. ’27, and Abby W. ’27 at the Poly Invitational Meet at Caltech.

Middle School Track and Field Takes First Place at Poly Invitational Meet

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Pip DC. ’27 and Jasmine ’T. 27 with their volleyball

“What Are You Doing on Valentine’s Day?”: How Westridge Students Might Respond

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
Middle School Lacrosse team day of win! Anthony Yang (Hayden Y. ’28 Father)

Middle School Lacrosse Wins Their First-Ever Game

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
8th grade students working at their desks in study hall.

New Study Hall Rules Aim to Promote Productivity

Rebecca L., Managing Editor
7th grade Spanish students in class.

Heritage Speakers Share Their Language Learning Experience at Westridge

Kristin C. and Rebecca L.
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