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
Reed D.

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer

Reed is a senior, and this is her fifth year on Spyglass and her third year juggling her roles as Editor, Website Manager, and Website Designer. Outside of writing for Spyglass, you can find her studying (or busy curating Spotify playlists) in a cafe, crocheting, thrifting, and spending time with her 8 pet chickens.

All content by Reed D.
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.

Reed D., Ella B., Tanvi C., and Mirella C.
Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions

Trump Administration’s Funding Threats Complicate Seniors’ College Decisions

Sophene A. and Reed D.
College Column: Home, After All

College Column: Home, After All

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Holiday Recipe: Ginger Molasses Cookies

Holiday Recipe: Ginger Molasses Cookies

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Dr. M: Latin Teacher and Style Icon

Dr. M: Latin Teacher and Style Icon

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
View inside Jones Coffee's South Pasadena from the staircase

Community in a Cup at Jones Coffee Roasters

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Website Manager Reed D. '25

[Photo] Spyglass’ 2024–2025 Editorial Board

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
An inside-view of Hodgson's Antiques on a sunny, spring day. Its location on Mission Street in South Pasadena, only a short walk away from Westridge, makes it a prime destination for an after-school outing.

Hodgson’s Antiques: A Time Capsule of Nostalgia in South Pasadena

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
The recent reversal of test-optional admissions policies made by several of the nation's most influential college institutions stirs up a whirlwind of emotions as current high schoolers adapt to an ever-changing college admissions landscape.

The Dartmouth Domino-Effect: More Elite Institutions Reinstate Test-Required Admissions Policies

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
10 Indie Love Songs for Valentine’s Day

10 Indie Love Songs for Valentine’s Day

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Copy of Westridge Welcomes New Faculty

[Photo] Highlights from Westridge Class of ’23’s First Semester in College

Lily C., Staff Writer
Painting depicting Lupercalia celebrations (Wiki Commons).

Ancient Lupercalia: My Bloody Valentine, Indeed!

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
(PC: Reed D.)

Holiday Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Cake

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Io, Io, Io, Merry Saturnalia!

Io, Io, Io, Merry Saturnalia!

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
HBD to the PSL: The Pumpkin Spice Latte Turns 20

HBD to the PSL: The Pumpkin Spice Latte Turns 20

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Screenshot of comments regarding Erewhon’s opening on Pasadena’s Nextdoor, 9/20/2023

Opinion: Erewhon: “Nowhere” I Want To Be

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
This June, 10 Westridge students and two faculty members embarked on a 10-day trip to Ireland as a part of Westridge's Summer Global Art Program.

Testimonies from Westridge’s Summer Global Art Program in Ireland

Ella B. and Reed D.
Westridge Summer Global Art Program Takes on Ireland

Westridge Summer Global Art Program Takes on Ireland

Ella B. and Reed D.
A stack of papers, a binder, and a laptop take the place of food on the plate. For many students at Westridge, lunch time is used for everything but eating.

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

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Dr. Lexie Kovach

Westridge Alumna Interview: Lexie Kovach, M.D. ’99

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
An illustration showcasing an array of athletic equipment. (Bellamy S.)

Op-Ed: Westridge Needs to Rethink the P.E. Credit System

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
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.
Ditch Ugly Cards for Tasteful Handmade Valentines

Ditch Ugly Cards for Tasteful Handmade Valentines

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
A collection of celebrities who died at 27.

Why Do So Many Celebrities Die at 27?

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Thrifting is so fun! Sometimes you find clothes, sometimes you find naked dolls!

Op-Ed: It’s Time to Denormalize Overconsumption and Fast Fashion

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Reed's Holiday Recipe: Molasses Cookies

Reed’s Holiday Recipe: Molasses Cookies

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
4 Back-To-School Tips and Tricks

4 Back-To-School Tips and Tricks

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
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.
Five Independent Local Coffee Shops to Visit From a Diehard Coffee Drinker

Five Independent Local Coffee Shops to Visit From a Diehard Coffee Drinker

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Oddball Week of Remote Learning Causes Westridge Community to Reflect on the Pandemic

Oddball Week of Remote Learning Causes Westridge Community to Reflect on the Pandemic

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Thin Mint Ice Cream Pie

Thin Mint Ice Cream Pie

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Avoid the Shipping Crisis with Handmade Holiday Gifts

Avoid the Shipping Crisis with Handmade Holiday Gifts

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Westridge removes the ISEE requirement from applications to promote diveristy, equity, and inclusion in the admissons process.

Westridge Goes Test-Blind. What Does This Mean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

Reed D. and Hailey T.
Humans of Westridge: Brooklyn P. ’25

Humans of Westridge: Brooklyn P. ’25

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
As part of Westridge's protocol, Westridge students wearing masks on Convocation. (@westridgeschool)

2021-22 School Year Ushers in a New Normal, Covid-Style

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Make Your Own Valentine’s Day Meme Cards

Make Your Own Valentine’s Day Meme Cards

Sophene A., Ella B., and Reed D.
My mom, brother, and I standing outside of Philz last May

Opinion: Why I Love Philz Coffee + Five Drinks to Order

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
Mia G. ‘25 standing in front of piles of donated breakfast cereal

All-School Food Drive Triumphs Against All Odds

Reed D., Editor, Website Manager/Designer
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