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
Katie S.

Katie S., Editor

Katie is a senior, and this is her fifth year on Spyglass and third year as an Editor. In her free time, she loves playing guitar, writing, and doing calligraphy.

All content by Katie S.
(Mena J.)

Is Financial Accessibility Enough to Make Discovery Week Equitable?

Katie S. and Gia S.
(Graphic Credit: Addie K.) Students with eating disorders at Westridge come forward about their experiences on campus.

How Does Westridge’s Culture of Competition and Achievement Impact Eating Disorders?

Katie S., Editor
Where Does Tuition Money Go? A Guide to Westridge’s Budget

Where Does Tuition Money Go? A Guide to Westridge’s Budget

Reed D. and Katie S.
Screenshot 2023-02-05 at 9.00.59 PM

Westridge’s Budget Process

Katie and Mandy's Holiday Recipe: Gluten Free Dark and Spicy Pumpkin Loaf

Katie and Mandy’s Holiday Recipe: Gluten Free Dark and Spicy Pumpkin Loaf

Katie S. and Amanda S.
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.
A timeline outlining the progression of the Gender Identity Policy.

[Photo] “What does it mean to be a girls’ school when we’re no longer living in a binary world?”

Katie Shirreffs

Click Here for March Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor
A Spyglass Guide to Civic Engagement

A Spyglass Guide to Civic Engagement

Katie S. and Ilena M.
Let the AI Machine Quiz Gadget Calculate How Single You Are

Let the AI Machine Quiz Gadget Calculate How Single You Are

Katie S., Editor

Click Here for February Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor
What your toffee should look like as it sets. (“Hot Toffee” by Liz West is licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0))

Swiss Milk Toffee

Katie S., Editor

Click Here for December Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor

Click Here for November Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor
What Your Favorite Candy Says About You

What Your Favorite Candy Says About You

Katie S., Editor
A computer science student works on an assignment.

[Photo] With the New School Year Comes a New Computer Science Department

Mckenna D.
Westridge’s new HD Teacher and Strength and Conditioning Coach Katie Dockter finds that her two roles at Westridge work well together.

Westridge Welcomes Powerlifter HD Teacher Katie Dockter!

Katie S., Editor
The State Street parking lot is nearly always full during school days. (Katie S. '23)

Why the Uptick in Westridge’s Parking Lot Accidents?

Katie S. and Jessica W.

Click Here for October Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor
Westridge's DEI Efforts Part 3: Moving Forward

Westridge’s DEI Efforts Part 3: Moving Forward

Katie S., Editor
Part of the November 2020 DEI and Anti-Racism update. It starts with a letter from Elizabeth McGregor, Head of School.

Westridge’s DEI Efforts Part 2: How Involved are Students in the DEI Process?

Katie S., Editor

Click Here for May Editor’s Note…

Katie S., Editor
Some of Westridge’s parent ambassadors with whom prospective families can connect.

Westridge’s DEI Efforts Part 1: Increasing Student Body Representation

Katie S., Editor
A Year in Review: Westridge Looks Back and Forward at its DEI Efforts

A Year in Review: Westridge Looks Back and Forward at its DEI Efforts

Katie S., Editor
Feldmeth teaching a Contemporary Ethical Issues class in 2019. Sometimes in his Ethics classes, students will ask Feldmeth about his personal viewpoint.

Share their Views or Remain Neutral? The Difficulties of Navigating Politics for Teachers

Katie S., Editor
The Friday lunch discussion addressed the recent incident of anti-Asian racism.

Westridge comes together after alumna hurls anti-Asian slurs

Katie S., Editor
Conversation Hearts For A Valentine’s Day In Quarantine

Conversation Hearts For A Valentine’s Day In Quarantine

Katie S. and Eliza W.
A meeting with a club that Christina S. and Cyana L. attend monthly.

Weighing the Functionality of Teams Versus Zoom for Westridge’s Remote Learning Platform

Weighing the Functionality of Teams Versus Zoom for Westridge’s Remote Learning Platform

Katie S. and Jessica W.
Instagram app. Between 46% and 51% of adults have been using social media more since quarantine began, according to a Harris Insights and Analytics poll.

Opinion: What Quarantine Taught Me About Social Media

Katie S., Editor
Everyone takes a deep relaxing breath in a meditative pose.

Employee Yoga Classes: Self Care, Relaxation, and Community

Katie S., Editor
The maintenance staff. (Felicia Johnson)

Westridge’s Maintenance Staff Prepares Campus for Students’ Return

Katie S., Editor
Microsoft Teams app loading screen.

Microsoft Teams Video Presence Raises Questions of Privacy and Distraction

Katie S., Editor
Kamala Harris endorses Joe Biden at one of his campaign rallies on March 9.

Kamala Harris’s Nomination Is Met With Both Excitement And Hesitation

Katie S. and Mckenna D.
The first level of Fireboy and Watergirl: The Forest Temple.

Fireboy and Watergirl: My Favorite Pandemic Pastime

Katie S., Editor
Evelyn’s February spread in her bullet journal, or as she likes to call it her “bujo”.

Fun Hobbies and Interests During COVID-19

Katie S., Editor
Each sport has its own Padlet. This lacrosse Padlet has links to lacrosse games, workouts, and yoga classes for all athletes to review and experiment with.

COVID-19 Interrupts Spring Sports

Katie S., Editor
One of Audrey’s puppies climbs on top of the other.

More Time with Pets!

Katie S., Editor
Jacqueline L.

Opinion: Civics Belongs in Our Classrooms

Katie S., Editor
Ms. Stevenson (left) and Ms. Yurcak (right) discuss their favorite books.

Taking A Look Inside Westridge’s Offices

Katie S., Editor

Bringing Home the Gold and Silver: Westridge Students Win Creative Writing Awards

Katie S., Editor
Ms. Shang organizes her desk before starting her work. “A good office environment is not how we’re having fun all the time, it’s how we really respect each other and how we support each other,” shared Ms. Shang

(Left to Right) Dr. P and Dr. E have known each other since they went to grad school together. Dr. E often brings in essential oils and some hand lotions. “We’ll text each other funny pictures--definitely with me and Dr. E if I see a license plate or something that has a Greek or Latin phrase,” shared Dr. P.

(Left to Right) Ms. Shang and Ms. Hull chat at their desks. “I just want to say we are the best [office] and we accept challenges,” Ms. Hull joked.

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Katie S.