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
Valentina V.

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief

Valentina is a senior in her fourth year of writing for Spyglass. Valentina loves American Girl Dolls, theatre, and her amazingly supportive family. She can also tap dance.

All content by Valentina V.
Isa H. '26

September Editor’s Note

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
The cast of IVRT's Newsies doing silly poses. (DawnEllen Ferry)

OPINION: If You Love It, Go For It.

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
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

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Yolanda W.

May Editor’s Note

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Screenshot 2025-04-27 at 3.23.10 PM

[Photo] Introducing Spyglass’ 2025–2026 Editorial Board

Gia S., Staff Writer and Copy Editor
Uniquely Nova: The Musical by Valentina V. '26 (me) and Sydney S. '25 is currently rehearsing for a staged reading that will take place on May 23. (PC Miyari V.-W. '27)

OPINION: From Brain to Stage: The Journey of Writing my Own Musical, Uniquely Nova

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Finley N.

Spyglass Survey of 200+ Students Reveals Attitudes Toward Cheating

Valentina V., Frances B., and Tanvi C.
Smoke plumes from the Eaton Fire cloud the sky on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025 near the I-210 freeway.

“Each day felt like a year.”

Keira K. and Valentina V.
(Lillian W. '27)

Projects at Westridge: How Creativity Benefits Student Learning and Engagement

Frances B. and Valentina V.
Via and Katherine with their tea pot and sticker.

Brewing Tea and Warming Hearts: Freshmen Katherine D. and Via K. start “The Mystertea Monopoly”

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Match the Student with the Stickers!

Match the Student with the Stickers!

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
A screenshot of my personal morning commute.

“You Live Where?!” Westridge Students Who Commute the Long Haul

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
My tap shoes (Valentina V.)

OPINION: Flapping Passed The Fears: My Teenaged-Tap Journey

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
(PC: Floatie Kings)

What Your Favorite Pool Floaty Says About You

Valentina V. and Kristin C.
Elected Associated Student Body Cabinet is Excited For the 2024–2025 School Year

Elected Associated Student Body Cabinet is Excited For the 2024–2025 School Year

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Westridge players use the John Muir Tennis Court during a match. (PC Emily L. '26)

“Our tennis kids deserve a good spot.” Westridge Athletics Struggles to Secure Ideal Tennis Courts

Valentina V. and Emily L.
7 Westridge Red Flags

7 Westridge Red Flags

Kristin C. and Valentina V.
Discovery Week Trip “Crossing Borders: San Diego/Tijuana” Is Canceled Due To “Unforeseen Logistical Challenges”

Discovery Week Trip “Crossing Borders: San Diego/Tijuana” Is Canceled Due To “Unforeseen Logistical Challenges”

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Mosquito Mayhem: Westridge Gets Itchy!

Mosquito Mayhem: Westridge Gets Itchy!

Kristin C. and Valentina V.
Radium Girls painting dials (PC Wikipedia)

Westridge Theatre Tackles the Tragically True Radium Girls

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Me and my sister at the Eras Tour

Opinion: Taylor Swift Has Brought Me and My Sister Closer Than Ever

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Spotlight on the Class of 2023

Spotlight on the Class of 2023

Sylvie S.-J. and Valentina V.
An “Enchanting” Night of Dance and Connection

An “Enchanting” Night of Dance and Connection

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
The Canada Geese hanging out behind Mudd.

A Wild Westridge Goose Chase – Canada Geese Claim Campus

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
The WPA Night Market provided a space for families to share their cultures. (Valentina V.)

WPA Night Market Celebrates Culture With Fashion, Food, and Fun

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
My doll, Aria, and I

Op-Ed: Yes, I’m 14 and I Still Play With Dolls

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
My doll, Aria, and I

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

Ella B. and Tanvi C.
Pickup Lines for Other Holidays

Pickup Lines for Other Holidays

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Students in Acting I preparing for the Winter Showcase.

What the 3 Months of Hard Work Leading Up to the Westridge Theatre Winter Showcase Were Like

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Izzy C. ’23 entertaining everyone in the dressing room before the show.

Layla R. ’26 and Ms. Hawk singing Taylor Swift.

Acting I exploring the prop loft.

Me laughing while crying under the sink in the PAC bathroom.

Lunch with the Archer Oracle staff.

Spyglass Goes to St. Louis!

Ilena M., Eliza W., and Valentina V.
Green Guerrillas Pave The Way For Sustainability at Westridge

Green Guerrillas Pave The Way For Sustainability at Westridge

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
Athena N. ’23 and Natalie S. ’23 working together in the Math Center

New Math Center is a Helpful Resource for Upper Schoolers Brave Enough to Enter

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief

New Head of School Initiated as a Roman in Dinosaur-Themed Greek and Roman Initiation

Ella B., Valentina V., and Helena C.
(Left) Kara Ramirez, Westridge’s new MS English Teacher (Right) Kara Ramirez Hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Walking into Westridge With Open Arms: Kara Ramirez, New Middle School English Teacher

Valentina V., Editor-in-Chief
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