The High School Student News Site of The American School in London

The Standard
The High School Student News Site of The American School in London

The Standard
The High School Student News Site of The American School in London

The Standard
Grace Hamilton

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief

Grace Hamilton (’23) is the Editor-in-Chief of The Standard. Her love for writing stemmed into a passion for journalism, and she became involved with The Standard in Grade 9. Journalism provides her a powerful platform to inform the ASL community and learn more about local and global perspectives, issues and events. Outside of journalism, Hamilton leads the Sustainability Council, writes creatively and sails competitively.

All content by Grace Hamilton
Syrian refugees supported by the CARE program pose in front of the Wall of Hope at the CARE center in Amman, Jordan. After fleeing conflict in Syria, these refugee girls pursue an education after overcoming countless obstacles.

Rebuilding: Syrian refugee girls pursue education

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus
May 4, 2023
Words are magnets to English Teacher Alissa Mears, a passion built first by crayons, then by her college lecture halls. From her college experience to her early teaching days to her embrace of motherhood, Mears shares the experiences that mold her career.

Alissa Mears embraces ‘humility’ in teaching, motherhood

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus
May 2, 2023
Modern feminism primarily favors privileged women, reinforcing the exploitative system of patriarchy. The movement must drive further progress in uplifting all women – race, ethnicity, sexuality, age or socioeconomic status aside.

Feminism requires embrace of intersectionality

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
April 25, 2023
Replacing interim Head of School Coreen Hester, Matthew Horvat will assume the Head of School position effective July 1. As an introduction to the school community, Horvat answers a range of questions surrounding his leadership philosophy, background and aspirations.

Meet Matthew Horvat: Incoming Head of School shares leadership philosophy, aspirations

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
April 5, 2023
Small businesses in St. Johns Wood – beyond those frequently flooded on the High Street – require additional support. It is imperative to consider student impact on these businesses.

[Photo] Local businesses require student support

April 4, 2023
Annually, the world observes Women’s History Month. The celebration intends to recognize women for their historical contributions and their role in modern society.

Women’s History Month: The Standard editors celebrate women in their life

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 22, 2023
History month displays represent a dedicated time to celebrate a particular group. These displays deserve respect from all community members.

[Photo] Guest submission: History month displays make our stories visible, deserve respect

March 22, 2023
As part of the annual Bergeron Fellowship – through which students work with a visiting author for a week – American author Paul Yoon visited the school March 13-17. Yoon’s journey to Senior Lecturer for creative writing at Harvard University began with his childhood bicycle.

Bergeron Fellow Paul Yoon unfurls ‘imaginary worlds’ through fiction writing

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 21, 2023
In recent decades, there have undoubtedly been marked strides in advancing women’s rights. Even so, gender discrepancies in wages persist and is indicative of entrenched sexism.

Wage gap epitomizes stagnation in gender equality efforts

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 16, 2023
High School students converse together as part of the workshop “Breaking the Echo Chamber: Navigating the Risks of Online Groupthink” March 2.

[Photo] Community participates in student-led Aequitas workshops

March 8, 2023
Lucas Bloom (’23) discusses with his group in the workshop “Breaking the Echo Chamber: Navigating the Risks of Online Groupthink” March 2. Workshop participants discussed the dangers of curated social media platforms.

Students participate in Aequitas workshops

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 7, 2023
Students, faculty engage in World Book Day celebration

Students, faculty engage in World Book Day celebration

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 3, 2023
Members of the “Shonzyls” team celebrate their victory during the music round of Quiz Night March 2. The “Shonzyls” earned second place overall in the competition.

Students engage in Quiz Night competition

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 2, 2023
Every April, attention collectively shifts to the climate crisis. Yet, the efforts imported by the recognition of Earth Day should be continuous to spur meaningful environmental change.

OPINION: Earth Day demands perpetual action

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 1, 2023
Co-Founder and CEO of Epoch Biodesign Jacob Nathan (’19) recounts his journey in sustainability. Epoch Biodesign utilizes bio-recycling to minimize plastic waste to mitigate the worsening effects of climate change.

Epoch BioDesign founder Jacob Nathan tackles plastic waste

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
March 1, 2023
During the winter months, student life can become monotonous. The school environment must support students experiencing burnout, prioritizing well-being over all else. (Graphic used with permission from Pat Librojo/sparklestroke)

[Photo] Student burnout requires acknowledgement

February 28, 2023
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[Photo] PODCAST: Climate change fatigue, myths circulate in younger generations

March 1, 2023
Grades 11 and 12 students engage in sexual consent workshops Jan. 30-31. Speakers from the Talk Consent organization educated students about consent and guided them in discussing possible real-life scenarios.

[Photo] School holds sexual consent workshops

February 2, 2023
Olivia Ford (’24) and Nur Rahman (’23) view an art exhibition at the National Gallery Jan. 26. Students in the “An Origin Story: Women in Ancient Europe” alternative looked for paintings of women and female artists in preparation for their trip to Portugal.

Students engage in alternative activities across London

Daniel de Beer and Grace Hamilton
January 30, 2023
Recently emerging in the school community, the public gained access to ChatGPT Nov. 30. ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence software to which users input information and receive detailed, human-like responses within seconds.

ChatGPT spurs debate over student, faculty approach to academia

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
January 27, 2023
Principal Devan Ganeshananthan announces his resignation, effective in June. Following the designation of an interim principal for the 2023-2024 school year, appointed Head of School Matthew Horvat will select a principal for the 2024-25 school year.

High School Principal Devan Ganeshananthan announces resignation, effective June

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
January 19, 2023
Spotify has rolled out a new “Get Ready With Music” feature that creates a custom playlist matching both your outfit and the overall vibe of the day. The feature is entertaining to use, however, is not practical enough to become part of my daily routine.

[Photo] ‘Get Ready With Music’ Spotify feature provides personal entertainment

December 5, 2022
“Better than the Movies” by Lynn Painter follows protagonist Liz Bauxbaum in her final year of high school, whenthe return of her childhood sweetheart leaves her to navigate the balance between who she wants to be and who she thinks she has to be. Painter takes the reader through an emotional and uplifting journey with likable characters and an intriguing plot.

[Photo] ‘Better than the Movies’ exhilarates the internal hopeless romantic

November 30, 2022
Matthew Horvat will assume the Head of School position for the 2023-24 school year, effective July 1. The Board of Trustees worked in tandem with the Head of School Search Committee to select a final candidate after a search process spanning nine months.

Matthew Horvat to fill Head of School position following extensive search process

Grace Hamilton and Ruby Rogers
October 27, 2022
Posters outlining the Fundamental British Values are pasted to the walls in every High School classroom. With the commencement of the 2022-23 school year, the school introduced a series of changes regarding pedagogy, student life and curriculum to adhere to requirements outlined by Ofsted.

School implements pedagogical, organizational changes adhering to Ofsted requirements

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
September 30, 2022
Two hours after the public announcement of the Queen’s death Sept. 8, crowds gather in front of Buckingham Palace backdropped by a flag lowered to half-mast. The official notice from the Royal administration consisted of two sentences posted on the gates as a double rainbow framed the Palace.

Death of Queen Elizabeth II ripples through community

Rudi Chamria, Grace Hamilton, Clara Martinez and Maarya Shafqat Adil
September 9, 2022
Grade 12 students engage in a tug of war competition May 31. Finalists in the tug of war competition – Grades 11 and 12 – will face off to determine the winner June 10 at the Bangers and Bash event.

Students compete in Spirit Assembly games, earn spirit points

Grace Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief
June 6, 2022
Computer science students and teachers provide suggestions for summer opportunities through both their past experiences and plans for future accomplishments.

[Photo] Guest submission: Computer science students, teachers reflect on skill-building opportunities

June 1, 2022
Copy of Online Featured Image

[Photo] Standard publishes Commitment to Diversity

May 27, 2022
Grade 11 and 12 students dance at the prom event at Church House, Westminster May 14. Due to previous COVID-19 restrictions, prom was held for the first time in three years.

[Photo] Prom takes place after two years of COVID-19 cancellations

May 16, 2022
High School students raise their hands in response to a question posed exploring cancel culture and social media activism March 3 during the workshop “The Great ‘Awokening.’” Workshop participants responded to a series of questions evaluating their own relationship with cancel culture and its presence on social media.

[Photo] Community participates in student-led Aequitas workshops

March 10, 2022
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri chronicles the heartbreaking story of a Syrian family fleeing their home in search of refuge. Unearthing what truly constitutes privilege, the novel challenges perspective until ones sense of self swivels.

‘The Beekeeper of Aleppo’ by Christy Lefteri transcends social boundaries

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
February 11, 2022
Standard staff bookshelf: Collection of book reviews

Standard staff bookshelf: Collection of book reviews

Ella Podurgiel and Grace Hamilton
February 11, 2022
Amid excruciatingly long work weeks and life and death decisions, This Is Going To Hurt by Adam Kay reveals the ins and outs of the healthcare industry. Balancing humor with heartbreak, this novel embodies the human spirit and its role in one of the most challenging careers.

[Photo] ‘This Is Going to Hurt’ by Adam Kay explores power of self in face of death

February 11, 2022
A coming-of-age story, Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah divulges the pains of childhood growing up in a wealthy Chinese family in the 1940s. The autobiography epitomizes prevailing in the face of adversity.

[Photo] ‘Chinese Cinderella’ by Adeline Yen Mah depicts cultural differences

February 11, 2022
City life facilitates top-notch food delivery services, each offering a range of cuisines fit to satisfy any craving. From popular classics to hidden gems, here are five takeout restaurants that give one a unique dining experience catered to their culinary desires.

Top 5 takeout restaurants

Grace Hamilton and Cameron Spurr
February 3, 2022
Standard staff bookshelf: Collection of book reviews

Standard staff bookshelf: Collection of book reviews

Rudi Chamria and Grace Hamilton
December 10, 2021
“Everything I Never Told You” details the unexpected death of young Chinese American Lydia Lee in 1970s Ohio. Through tragedy, chaos ensues within the Lee family, forcing them to grapple with the fragile foundations of family, race and belonging.

[Photo] ‘Everything I Never Told You’ navigates complex family dynamics through tragedy

December 10, 2021
Bonfire Night commemorates the 1605 event in which Guy Fawkes led a group of English Catholics in an attempted demolition of the Houses of Parliament. This historical event is annually celebrated the weekend of Nov. 5 across the U.K. with fireworks, parades and bonfires.

Top 5 must-visit Bonfire Night firework displays

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
November 5, 2021
Attendees of the Global Works “Costa Rica: Children and Community” service trip congregate at Playa Chaman on the penultimate day of their excursion. The trip explored the multifaceted culture of Costa Rica, partaking in work at a rainforest biology station, volunteering at a local school and surfing with locals.

Costa Rican culture spurs personal reflection, gratitude

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
October 6, 2021
British Literature students congregate outside the Kiln Theatre after viewing a performance of the play “NW Trilogy” Sept. 29. The play consisted of three acts with a total duration of two hours.

British Literature students attend ‘NW Trilogy’ performance

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
September 29, 2021
The effects of climate change – natural disasters, heat waves, pollution – remain perceptible in every facet of our lives. Here are five sustainable practices imperative to curtailing the worsening climate crisis.

Top 5 sustainable practices to mitigate climate crisis

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
September 24, 2021
Adnan Bseisu (’22) and Lily Bernhard (’22), members of the “Amazing Avocados” team, discuss potential answers to a trivia question during the third round of Quiz Night. “Amazing Avocados” placed second overall after points accumulated by each team were tallied.

Photo Gallery: Students compete in Quiz Night

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
September 13, 2021
Faculty members reflect upon 9/11

Faculty members reflect upon 9/11

Elena Alexander and Grace Hamilton
September 13, 2021
Documentaries are quintessential to a well-rounded film experience, tackling numerous themes – deconstructing the science behind natural disasters, downfalls of the education system, scientific phenomenons. Here are five must-watch documentaries that may deepen one’s perception of the world or simply stimulate diversity of thought.

Top 5 documentaries

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
September 10, 2021
With summer weather comes a number of seasonal foods, from popsicles to corn on the cob to grilled vegetables. Here are five recipes perfect for summer.

Top 5 summer recipes

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
June 16, 2021
Reese Laurienti (’23) holds Holi powder used to decorate T-shirts worn by Concert Choir members while recording “Balleilakka” at Canons Park May 4. The choir’s spring concert went live June 6, showcasing “Balleilakka” alongside other parts of their repertoire.

[Photo] End of year performing arts concerts take place amid COVID-19 restrictions

June 11, 2021
For many people, having their name mispronounced can be damaging to their identity and wellbeing. Mispronouncing someone’s name, or assigning an unwanted nickname are considered by some to be name-based microaggressions.

[Photo] Name mispronunciations leave lasting impact on individuals

June 10, 2021
As finals week approaches and workload ramps up, end-of-year stress is undeniable. Here are five ways to reduce stress, increase motivation and persevere through the last stretch of the school year.

Top 5 tips to manage finals week

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
June 4, 2021
A poster encouraging students to donate to organizations supporting those suffering in India hangs in the Theater Foyer. Members of the Community Action Committee organized a fundraiser to help provide vaccines, medical supplies and treatment facilities for Indian relief.

India battles worsening COVID-19 crisis

May 20, 2021
London offers countless tourist attractions that provide the quintessential city experience as a resident. Lead Culture Editor Grace Hamilton shares five tourist attractions to capitalize on all the city has to offer.

Top 5 tourist attractions to visit as a London resident

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
May 28, 2021
London is home to a copious selection of lunch restaurants, from classic pubs to casual cafés to fine diners. Whether it be popular classics or more novel game-changers, Lead Culture Editor Grace Hamilton shares must-visit restaurants that provide the quintessential dining experience.

Top 5 lunch restaurants

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
May 21, 2021
Netflix, the popular streaming platform, offers a variety of programs from a variety of genres. Whether it be documentaries, comedies or action-adventure, Lead Culture Editor Grace Hamilton shares lesser-known Netflix programs.

Top 5 Netflix must-sees

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
May 14, 2021

[Video] Sexual harassment at ASL

May 12, 2021

[Video] Defining sexual harassment

May 12, 2021
For many across the globe, sexual harassment permeates every aspect of life, often inducing silence and instilling negative emotions in those who experience it.

Sexual harassment: Shattering the silence

Grace Hamilton, Lead Culture Editor
May 12, 2021

[Video] Experiences and reactions

May 12, 2021
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