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
Annual Spyglass Senior Survey
Annual Spyglass Senior Survey
Class of 2025 editorial board members—whose leadership, creativity, and bold ideas helped shape the voice of Spyglass—led with purpose and passion.
“Spicy, Opinionated, Brazen”: Spyglass Says Goodbye to Seniors
Confessions from the Class of 2025
Confessions from the Class of 2025
From top left to bottom right: Director of Upper School Dr. Melanie Arias, Administrative Assistant to Upper School Ms. Kali Spicer, Assistant Director of Upper School Ms. Kerri Epps, Upper School Dean of Student Support Ms. Bonnie Paiz Martinez (Valentina V.)
Community, Innovation, and Teamwork: Upper School Administration Reflects on First Year as a Team
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
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.
The permaculture garden in full bloom during the annual Open House, where students showcased a year’s worth of sustainability and design work.
Permaculture and Sustainable Building and Design Round Out the Year with Animal Friends at Annual Open House
Annual Spyglass Senior Survey
Annual Spyglass Senior Survey
Spyglass staffer Lilah and her friends’ dresses hung up, ready to be worn.
Behind the Scenes: Westridge Prom Edition
Confessions from the Class of 2025
Confessions from the Class of 2025
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
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.
During the Spyglass Senior Celebration, newly elected Editor-in-Chief Valentina V. '26 gave some thoughtful remarks about my time on Spyglass.
OPINION: Joining Spyglass as a Senior
The AI generated image hanging in Mudd.
OPINION: The Case for a Clear AI Policy at Westridge
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
Give me any microphone and I'll have an opinion to share with you. This article details the premises of some of the opinions I never got to write for Spyglass.
OPINION: All the Op-Eds I Never Got to Write
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
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
PC: Bianca P. ’28, Both sisters pose together on the first day of school.
Humans of Westridge: Bianca P. ’28 Embraces Her First Year of High School, Following in the Footsteps of Her Older Sister Brooklyn P. ’25
Sounds For State Street: Au revoir
Sounds For State Street: Au revoir
Going down the A Line, our next stop Historic Broadway.
Metro Stop Highlights: Historic Broadway
Going down the A Line, our next stop Little Tokyo.
Metro Stop Highlights: Little Tokyo
College Column: Home, After All
College Column: Home, After All
A Senior in March: On Making the Most of Every Moment
A Senior in March: On Making the Most of Every Moment
College Column: Home, After All
College Column: Home, After All
College Column: Oh, the Humanities!
College Column: Oh, the Humanities!
The writer taking the football to the head instead of catching it during a game. (P.C. Austin M.)
College Prep and Lifelong Learning: From One Girls School To Another
College Column: College Prep and Lifelong Learning: From One Girls School To Another
College Column: College Prep and Lifelong Learning: From One Girls School To Another
College Column: Can I stay true to myself in the admissions process?
College Column: Can I stay true to myself in the admissions process?
"Girls Just Want to Play Sports" is a column that highlights women athletes.
Girls Just Wanna Play Sports: It’s Time for Playoff Hockey
"Girls Just Want to Play Sports" is a column that highlights women athletes.
Girls Just Wanna Play Sports: Women’s Basketball is Winning
"Girls Just Want to Play Sports" is a column that highlights women athletes.
Girls Just Wanna Play Sports: National Girls and Women in Sports Day Reminds Us of Our Accomplishments and Shortcomings
"Girls Just Want to Play Sports" is a column that highlights women athletes.
Girls Just Wanna Play Sports: Reflecting on the Careers of Women’s Soccer Players
"Girls Just Want to Play Sports" is a column that highlights women athletes.
Introducing: Girls Just Wanna Play Sports, A Column
Sounds For State Street: Honey
Sounds For State Street: Honey
Sounds For State Street: Flora
Sounds For State Street: Flora
Sounds For State Street: Solstice
Sounds For State Street: Solstice
Sounds For State Street: Harvest
Sounds For State Street: Harvest
Sounds For State Street: Crimson
Sounds For State Street: Crimson
The Backstory is a column celebrating fun and forgotten history!
The Backstory: How An Immigrant, A Dream, And A Bunch of Bananas Changed The World
The Backstory is a column celebrating fun and forgotten history!
The Backstory: The Pet That Truly Rocks
The Backstory is a column celebrating fun and forgotten history!
The Backstory: The True Meaning of Christmas in Beheading a Candy Pig
The Backstory is a column celebrating fun and forgotten history!
The Backstory: The Women Who Drove Auto Innovation
The Backstory: A Brief History of Underwear Through the Ages
The Backstory: A Brief History of Underwear Through the Ages
Spyglass Live: All School Day 2025 with Nia C. '33
Spyglass Live: All School Day 2025 with Nia C. ’33
Spyglass Live | Yam Fest Yap Sesh 2024
Spyglass Live | Grandparent's Day 2024
Spyglass Live | Grandparent’s Day 2024
Do all Westridge students think the same? | Election Edition | Spyglass Live
Do all Westridge students think the same? | Election Edition | Spyglass Live
Spyglass Live: 2024 Dance Concert Documentary
Spyglass Live: 2024 Dance Concert Documentary
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
PC: Bianca P. ’28, Both sisters pose together on the first day of school.
Humans of Westridge: Bianca P. ’28 Embraces Her First Year of High School, Following in the Footsteps of Her Older Sister Brooklyn P. ’25
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
Throughout the season, the players were able to create special bonds together as a team.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: Sprinting Toward the Touchdown
An intense moment taken during the Quarter Final CIFs game against Oaks Christian, as a Westridge player shoots while under immense defensive pressure.
“We Wanted To Make History”
A collage graphic of Bennett, Micaela, and Teia competing in their respective events. All three champions have at least one year left in their athletics career at Westridge.
Three Individual Championships Carry Westridge to a Third Place Finish At Prep League Finals
Teia L. ’26 stands at the podium at CIF-SS Finals after winning third place in the entire division in pole vault.
A Spring Sports Recap: New School Records Made in Lacrosse and Track and Field
As both Coach Melanie Horn (left) and dance teacher Kashmir Blake are set to retire at the end of this school year after decades of service, the Westridge community is taking the time to honor their commitment and dedication to the school.
After 30 Years of Empowering Young Women, Director of Athletics Melanie Horn Retires from Westridge
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
Just days into the trip, I stand in the Atacama Desert, unfazed.
Etc: My Trip to Chile in 8 Egregious Anecdotes
"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
  • May 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
Sophene A.

Sophene A., Editor

Sophene is a senior and in her sixth year on Spyglass. In her free time, she enjoys baking, spending time with family, and watching Gilmore Girls and Friends.

All content by Sophene A.
Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions

Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions

Sophene A. and Reed D.
April 27, 2025
Communication gaps during the fire closure left students confused about homework and class expectations.

Gaps in Communication Create Confusion for Students Returning to School After Eaton Fire

Karalim C. and Sophene A.
January 30, 2025
Photo Credit: Sophene A.'25

Your Senior Year Survival Guide

Sophene A.
December 15, 2024
Photo Credit: Abby H.

Minimal Discourse on the 2024 Presidential Election Takes Place on Campus

Sophene A.
October 6, 2024
Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Tom Parker. (PC: Jamie Martin/Associated Press)

Alabama Falls Into the Nation’s Spotlight Following the State’s Ruling to Stop IVF Services

Sophene A.
April 14, 2024
A handful of Westridge classes have incorporated a flipped learning approach. Teachers aim to find the right balance between traditional and flipped learning. (Eliza K. ’26)

Westridge Teachers Seek to Find the Right Balance Between Traditional and Flipped Learning

Sophene A. and Arden R.
February 12, 2024
Director of Upper School Mr. Baldwin sits in his office. (PC: Sophene A. ’25)

Director of Upper School Mr. Gary Baldwin to Step Down at the End of the 2023–2024 School Year

Sophene A.
February 12, 2024
When Did It Become Fashionable to Hate America? It’s Time to Abandon This Trend

When Did It Become Fashionable to Hate America? It’s Time to Abandon This Trend

Sophene A., Managing Editor
December 11, 2023
The Permaculture Garden (PC: Lorelei CE)

New Middle School Permaculture Class Spreads Awareness About The Ecosystem

Sophene A.
December 11, 2023
Ms. Farrell Heydorff, Dean of Lower and Middle School Student Activities, sitting at her desk.

Ms. Farrell Heydorff Retires From the Military After Twenty Years of Service

Sophene A.
November 13, 2023
8 Items That Convinced Us That Erewhon Is Worth the Hype

8 Items That Convinced Us That Erewhon Is Worth the Hype

Tanvi C. and Sophene A.
October 2, 2023
“It’s been a year of planning and training”: Westridge’s Honor Council Concludes Its Pilot Year

“It’s been a year of planning and training”: Westridge’s Honor Council Concludes Its Pilot Year

Sophene A.
May 30, 2023
Art by Alex S.

Opinion: Teachers’ Political Beliefs Do Not Belong Inside the Classroom

Sophene A.
April 23, 2023
Is having a tutor necessary to being successful at Westridge?

Tutoring: An Exception or Expectation?

Sophene A. and Kristin C.
March 13, 2023
Swipe left to check your answers!

Valentine’s Day Crossword Puzzle

Sophene A.
February 6, 2023
In Brazil’s capital city, Brasília, supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro storm the Congress building.

Brazil’s Protests Echo the U.S. Capitol Attack on January 6

Sophene A.
February 6, 2023
Sophene's Holiday Recipe:

Sophene’s Holiday Recipe:

Sophene A.
December 12, 2022
An outdoor education-focused Olympic backpacking trip during Upper School Discovery Week. (Westridge School)

“This Has to Be Accessible for Everyone”: A Reimagined and More Equitable Discovery Week

Sophene A.
December 12, 2022
Lusha G. ’24 inside Caffeina, the name of a nearby cafe and her favorite study spot.

“My View of the World or Just Everything Is Expanding”: Lusha G. ’24 Spends the Year Studying Abroad

Sophene A.
December 12, 2022
Some students work in the library as others collaborate with their peers.

The Westridge Library Lacks a Noise Policy: What Does This Mean for Students?

Sophene A.
November 7, 2022
A protester holds a portrait of Mahsa Amini during a demonstration in support of Amini.

Protests Erupt Across Iran Following the Death of Mahsa Amini

Sophene A.
November 7, 2022
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Grabs Spotlight at the Beginning of the Supreme Court’s New Term

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Grabs Spotlight at the Beginning of the Supreme Court’s New Term

Sophene A.
November 7, 2022
Participants in the Women’s March and Rally for Abortion Justice in Los Angeles on October 2, 2021

A Post-Roe America: Abortion in California

Sophene A.
November 7, 2022
Campus COVID-19 Safety Team Lifts Indoor Masking and Announces Updated Protocols

Campus COVID-19 Safety Team Lifts Indoor Masking and Announces Updated Protocols

Sophene A.
October 3, 2022
Westridge Develops Student Honor Council to Support Community Growth and Healing

Westridge Develops Student Honor Council to Support Community Growth and Healing

Sophene A.
October 3, 2022
Opinion: Schools Want to Emphasize Learning Over Grades. That’s Why We Need an Open Grade Book.

Opinion: Schools Want to Emphasize Learning Over Grades. That’s Why We Need an Open Grade Book.

Sophene A.
May 31, 2022
Summer Editors’ Picks

Summer Editors’ Picks

Ilena M., Eliza W., Tanvi C., Reed D., Sophene A., Florence J., Katie S., Daria H., Hailey T., and Lauren C.
May 31, 2022
Stephen Parlato holds a sign with the words, “Hands Off Roe,” outside of the U.S. Supreme Court on Dec. 1, 2021, protesting a 2018 law that would ban abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.

America Braces for Imminent Overturn of Roe v. Wade

Sophene A. and Lilah R.
May 31, 2022
Candidates at a debate hosted at the University of Southern California (USC).

Homelessness and Public Safety: The Issues That Will Decide Los Angeles’s Mayoral Election

Sophene A.
May 31, 2022
21 Killed in Texas Elementary School Shooting

21 Killed in Texas Elementary School Shooting

Sophene A.
May 31, 2022
First Black Woman to Be Appointed to the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Is Confirmed by Senate

First Black Woman to Be Appointed to the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Is Confirmed by Senate

Sophene A.
April 7, 2022
Jodi Kreyman walking the halls of her high school.

Review: “Tall Girl 2” Is Beyond Disappointing. And I’m Not Surprised.

Sophene A.
March 21, 2022
Manuel Oliver, father of a teenager killed in the Parkland school shooting, holds a banner calling Biden to take action on gun violence. (Photo Credit: Stefani Reynolds/AFP/Getty Images)

Parkland School Shooting Survivors Remain Disappointed Four Years Later

Sophene A.
March 21, 2022
Opinion: COVID-19 Stigma: What It Is and How It's Dangerous to the Pandemic

Opinion: COVID-19 Stigma: What It Is and How It’s Dangerous to the Pandemic

Sophene A.
February 14, 2022
President Biden Follows Through Pledge to Nominate a Black Woman to the Supreme Court

President Biden Follows Through Pledge to Nominate a Black Woman to the Supreme Court

Sophene A.
February 14, 2022
A 2021 Roundup: 5 New California Laws Worth Knowing About

A 2021 Roundup: 5 New California Laws Worth Knowing About

Sophene A.
February 14, 2022
The Chicago Teachers Union protested over health and safety concerns. (Photo Credit: NBC News)

Chicago Teachers Union Stages Walkout: Disputes About the Safety of Schools Continue

Sophene A.
February 14, 2022
Joe Biden addressing unvaccinated individuals in the United States.

Opinion: A “Pandemic of the Unvaccinated”: Blaming the Unvaccinated Will Get the U.S. Nowhere

Sophene A.
January 21, 2022
Opinion: Dear Administration, It’s Time To Get Serious About Enforcing The Uniform Policy

Opinion: Dear Administration, It’s Time To Get Serious About Enforcing The Uniform Policy

Sophene A.
December 13, 2021
Date Caramel Squares

Date Caramel Squares

Sophene A.
December 13, 2021
Lesridge Instagram Account: Both a ‘Meme Account’ and Safe Place for Students

Lesridge Instagram Account: Both a ‘Meme Account’ and Safe Place for Students

Sophene A.
November 8, 2021
“It’s Just a Toxic Place to Be”: Facebook Whistleblower Reveals Studies Confirming Instagram’s Harmful Effect on Teens’ Body Image

“It’s Just a Toxic Place to Be”: Facebook Whistleblower Reveals Studies Confirming Instagram’s Harmful Effect on Teens’ Body Image

Daria H. and Sophene A.
November 8, 2021
The quotation in the bathroom at the beginning of the year.

Lower School Bathroom Remodel Faces Criticism for Gender Exclusive Design

Sophene A.
November 8, 2021
A protest in 2019 that advocated for menstrual equity. (The Guardian)

California’s Bill Ignites Discussion Regarding Period Poverty

Sophene A.
October 4, 2021
Those who are against the COVID-19 vaccine protest. (The Independent)

“It is my choice. It’s not a law”: Students Weigh in on the COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate

Sophene A., Staffer
October 4, 2021
Protest against SB 8 at the Capitol in Austin, Texas. (Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman/Associated Press)

Texas Abortion Ban SB 8: 6 Things You Should Know and Why You Should Care

Sophene A.
October 4, 2021
Opinion: Put Self-Care on Your To-Do List

Opinion: Put Self-Care on Your To-Do List

Sophene A.
May 17, 2021
Representative David Cicilline advocating for the Equality Act.

House Passes Legislation Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights

Sophene A.
May 17, 2021
A torchlight march in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, to mark the 106th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

An Unrecognized Genocide is a Repeated Genocide

Sophene A.
May 17, 2021
New Legislation Challenges Abortion Rights

New Legislation Challenges Abortion Rights

Sophene A.
March 1, 2021
Photo Credits: Instagram

New Zealand Works to Reduce Period Poverty: What Does It Mean for Other Countries?

Sophene A.
March 1, 2021
Make Your Own Valentine’s Day Meme Cards

Make Your Own Valentine’s Day Meme Cards

Sophene A., Ella B., and Reed D.
March 1, 2021
Opinion: A Family Divided

Opinion: A Family Divided

Sophene A.
February 3, 2021
Opinion: Burnt Leaves, Strong Roots

Opinion: Burnt Leaves, Strong Roots

Natalie M. and Sophene A.
December 4, 2020
LuciDesignsCo’s Instagram, where she advertises some of her products.

Eighth Grader Promotes Voting With Small Startup

Sophene A.
October 11, 2020
Ms. Oseran with her dog.

Westridge Welcomes Anna Oseran

Sophene A.
October 11, 2020

Behind The Scenes: ALL SCHOOLS DAY

Ella B. and Sophene A.
April 17, 2020

Rigorous Remote Learning in Middle School

Ella B. and Sophene A.
April 17, 2020

Dance-less Middle School Dances

Sophene A.
February 18, 2020
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Sophene A.