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
Gia S.

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor

Gia is a senior in her fourth year as a Spyglass staff writer and third year as a Copy Editor. She loves solving crossword puzzles and crocheting little dolls and flowers in her free time.

All content by Gia S.
On April 14, Spyglass elected its newest leadership team.

Introducing Spyglass’ 2025–2026 Editorial Board

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
COLLEGE COLUMN: A Senior in March. On Making the Most of Every Moment

COLLEGE COLUMN: A Senior in March. On Making the Most of Every Moment

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Alumna Lauren Tom '12 compiled Westridge families' GoFundMe fundraisers after the Los Angeles wildfires into a Google Sheet for better shareability and organization.

Alumni Profile: Bringing Together the Westridge Community, Lauren Tom ’12 Supports Families Affected by LA Wildfires by Sharing GoFundMe Fundraisers

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor

Roll Call! Meet the 2024–25 Westridgettes

Gia S. and Josie S.-J.
Administrative Assistant to the Upper School Ms. Kali Spicer, Dean of Student Support Ms. Bonnie Pais Martinez, Director of Upper School Dr. Melanie Arias, and Assistant Director of Upper School Ms. Kerri Epps in Dr. Arias’ office

New Upper School Office Builds Upon Existing Infrastructure, Creates “Infinite” Possibility for Future 

Gia S. and Kelly C.
Spyglass’ 2024–2025 Editorial Board

Spyglass’ 2024–2025 Editorial Board

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Sarah L. ’25, who reached scoring 100 goals earlier this year, playing in a lacrosse game

Sarah L. ’25 Scores 100 Goals During Lacrosse’s First CIF-Advancing Season

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Ghost Ranch scenery

Journeys Filled With Laughter and Learning: Students Bond While Exploring New Places Together During Discovery Week

Gia S. and Lily C.
Westridge Love Languages

Westridge Love Languages

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
BFFs SpongeBob (Sydney S. '25) and Patrick (Ada N. '24) during rehearsal

Westridge Theatre Presents The SpongeBob Musical: A Silly But Strong Story For Everyone

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Screenshot 2023-12-11 at 1.06.18 AM

How festive are you? Take the Quiz

Tekle S-J and Gia S.
The English teachers have brought up boxes of their stuff including books to their new office space in EC21

English Office Once Again Relocates to Escape the Westridge Smell. Challenges Arise With EC21’s Move to Fish Room

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
The Upper School flag football team huddles up during a game (PC: Coach Horn)

A Season of Firsts: Flag Football’s Inaugural Season Launches With High Hopes

Kristin C. and Gia S.
Dorien Grunbaum, child Holocaust survivor, Anne Frank LA co-founders, “Your Story Matters” contest winners including Sarah L. ’25, and Olivia P. ’29 at the ribbon cutting and award ceremony on May 18, 2023.

Sarah L. ’25 Wins Anne Frank LA and Los Angeles Public Library “Your Story Matters” Essay Contest

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
(Mena J.)

Is Financial Accessibility Enough to Make Discovery Week Equitable?

Katie S. and Gia S.
(Gia S. '25)

Eliza W. ’24 steps into Spyglass Editor in Chief role for 2023–24.

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
The English office desks are empty due to the relocation.

English Office Relocated While Facilities Investigates Smell in Rothenberg Humanities Building

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
The English office desks are empty due to the relocation.

[Photo] Westridge Raises Questions About the Future of Artificial Intelligence in Education

Ella B. and Tanvi C.
It’s Not Me, It’s You. Why More and More Teens are Breaking Up with Social Media

It’s Not Me, It’s You. Why More and More Teens are Breaking Up with Social Media

Lilah R. and Gia S.
Dr. LaFave

[Photo] The Westridge Diet: Is Serving Up Activities Instead of Food at Lunch Normalizing Disordered Eating on Campus?

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Stephanie C. explained that she took social media breaks from Instagram because she noticed that her frequent use of social media negatively impacted her mental health.

A group of sophomore students huddle around their laptops and textbooks to work on homework and study in the library.

No, It’s Not Just You. Sophomore Year is Really That Hard

Gia S. and Ariana E.
Gia's Holiday Recipe: Kumquat Jamalade

Gia’s Holiday Recipe: Kumquat Jamalade

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Real Life Horrors

Real Life Horrors

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
The current Latine Affinity mural located outside of the library.

Latine Affinity Plans to Repaint and Restore 1995 Mural

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Halle Bailey as Ariel in The Little Mermaid.

“Representation Matters” – Westridge Reacts to New Disney Live Action Little Mermaid 

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Ms. Simon on the Braun Patio.

Westridge Says Goodbye to Sarah Simon

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
WPA Night Market Promotes Cultural Connection Through International Food and Events

WPA Night Market Promotes Cultural Connection Through International Food and Events

Lauren C. and Gia S.
Opinion: What Joining JV Basketball Taught Me About Self-Confidence

Opinion: What Joining JV Basketball Taught Me About Self-Confidence

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Finished product of coconut mochi.

Coconut “Snow” Mochi

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Westridge Updates Schedule, Adding Extended Passing Periods and Shortening Lunches

Westridge Updates Schedule, Adding Extended Passing Periods and Shortening Lunches

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Mr. P. playing his violin.

More To New Rocketry and Math Teacher Dan Perahya Than You Know

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
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