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
Kristin C.

Kristin C., Editor

Kristin is a senior in their sixth year on staff and third year as an editor. In their free time, they like to read, ride horses, and go for long walks while listening to music. 

All content by Kristin C.
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

Kristin C., Editor
The American flag displayed in front of the Main Hall building. The Trump administration's stance on scientific research, immigration, and diversity, equity, and inclusion has directly affected and will likely continue to affect the Westridge community.

Westridge Faces Impacts of Trump Policies

Kristin C., Editor
Students at Westridge are seeing their classmates use generative AI more and more. Piper* said, “AI usage is definitely increasing in ways that I wasn't expecting."

Westridge Responds to Generative AI’s Impact on Teaching and Learning

Ella B., Tanvi C., Karalim C., and Kristin C.
Over 50 attendees pose for a group photo at the playground structure after the two hour event.

Tiger Cub Club Builds Community Across Generations

Kristin C., Editor
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

Kristin C. and Karalim C.
On the morning of Wednesday, January 8, 2025, smoke from the Eaton Fire crowds the sky.

“What Happens Now?”

Rebecca L. and Kristin C.
Upper School Office Seeks to Resolve Discovery Week Equity Issues Despite Rising Costs

Upper School Office Seeks to Resolve Discovery Week Equity Issues Despite Rising Costs

Kristin C. and Jessica S.
Students taking the same class can often have different experiences than their peers depending on their particular teacher's interpretation of the course.

Same Class, Different Teacher. When Does One Class Become Two?

Kristin C. and Tekle S-J
The 2024-2025 school year brings about yet another new schedule after Upper and Middle School administration considers last year's student feedback and faculty concerns.

New Upper School Schedule Responds to Student Priorities

Kristin C., Editor
(PC: Floatie Kings)

What Your Favorite Pool Floaty Says About You

Valentina V. and Kristin C.
7 Westridge Red Flags

7 Westridge Red Flags

Kristin C. and Valentina V.
Micah M. '25, a head of Jewish Affinity, shares data indicating the recent rise of antisemitic sentiments. Other heads of the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) and Jewish Affinity gather behind her as the rest of their members listen attentively.

 “We wanted to create a space where people would feel safe to share.” MENA and Jewish Affinities Host Community Gathering About War in Gaza

Kristin C., Editor
Spyglass staffers and faculty chaperones pose on Westridge stairs before departing for Boston.

Spy Us in Boston!: Spyglass Visits Boston for Journalism Convention

Kristin C. and Tekle S-J
Mosquito Mayhem: Westridge Gets Itchy!

Mosquito Mayhem: Westridge Gets Itchy!

Kristin C. and Valentina V.
Director of Dining Services Brandon Worrell (Kristin C.)

Custom Salads and Sandwiches At the Commons Are Back, But Are the Lines Worth the Bite?

Kristin C. and Sarah L.
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.
Here at Spyglass, we’ve been coming up with some personal headlines to narrate our daily lives. (PC: Kristin C.)

10 Headlines for the First Month of School

Kristin C., Editor
MS flag football A team playing against Mayfield Junior School. Ilyana P.K. ’28, quarterback, snaps the ball to Brynn C. ’27. (Melanie Horn)

Westridge Tackles Implementing Upper School Flag Football Next Fall

Kristin C., Editor
Westridge Puts Summer Homework on Permanent Vacation

Westridge Puts Summer Homework on Permanent Vacation

Sarah L. and Kristin C.
Is having a tutor necessary to being successful at Westridge?

Tutoring: An Exception or Expectation?

Sophene A. and Kristin C.
8 Songs to Play on Valentine’s Day (That Aren’t T-Swift or from TikTok)

8 Songs to Play on Valentine’s Day (That Aren’t T-Swift or from TikTok)

Kristin C., Editor
Students with learning differences can struggle without support in the classroom.

Accessing Academic Accommodations

Ilena M. and Kristin C.
Brandon Worrell, the Director of Dining Services, stands near the entrance to the Commons

The Commons Prioritizes Faster Service Over Personal Orders

Sarah L. and Kristin C.
Halloween: What’s In and What’s Out

Halloween: What’s In and What’s Out

Kristin C. and Sarah L.
Elliott Chang: Westridge’s Newest Math Teacher

Elliott Chang: Westridge’s Newest Math Teacher

Kristin C., Editor
New School Year Brings Commons Back to Normalcy

New School Year Brings Commons Back to Normalcy

Sarah L. and Kristin C.
The Label of an Immigrant

The Label of an Immigrant

Kristin C., Editor
7th grade Spanish students in class.

Heritage Speakers Share Their Language Learning Experience at Westridge

Kristin C. and Rebecca L.
Pictured are three books in the eighth-grade curriculum that are commonly challenged in schools, as well as Apple: Skin to the Core, a book being considered as a replacement for The Lone Ranger.

Eighth-Graders Question Sherman Alexie’s Place in American Studies Curriculum

Kristin C., Editor
Pandemic Fatigue and the New Struggle to Socialize

Pandemic Fatigue and the New Struggle to Socialize

Kealani P. and Kristin C.
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Kristin C.