• January 3Welcome back to school! The newsroom has reopened—stay tuned for future updates.
The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA

The Gator
Meet the next Editorial Board, a group of all-new student editors. Gator file photos.
Newsroom Announces 2023-2024 Editorial Board
February 3, 2023
History and Journalism Teacher David Cutler demonstrates how AI can write essays. Photo illustration by Edan Zinn.
Teachers Debate AI in Education 
January 30, 2023
Science Teacher Matt Gallon leads a workshop.
18th Annual Bissell Grogan Symposium Returns
January 23, 2023
Maya Lownie 24 and Haripriya Mallidi 23 perform a traditional Indian dance.
Circles 19: A Coffee House Returns in the Dining Commons
January 19, 2023
Photo courtesy of David Barron.
New Faculty Profile: Alex Ostergard
January 5, 2023
Community Reflects on Lasting Pandemic Changes
Community Reflects on Lasting Pandemic Changes
January 5, 2023
Zak Adler 23, who recently recovered from COVID-19, returns to school with a mask on. Masks are more a common sight in the hallways this week.
‘Alive and Well in the Community’: COVID-19 Cases Continue
September 22, 2022
Prices have fluctuated on online shopping sites like Amazon. Photo purchased at BigStock.com
Op-Ed: The Supply Chain Crisis is Not Over
June 3, 2022
School Nurse Beth Escobar takes care of students and adults alike here. She hands a COVID-19 test to second grade teacher Angela Park.
School Sees Uptick in COVID-19 Cases
May 2, 2022
Zak Adler 23 and Alison Rimas 23 walk down a one-way hallway last year, one of many health restrictions we have moved past since the start of the pandemic.
March 12: A Day to Define Our Generation
March 12, 2022
Gamble 23, Nielsen 23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
Gamble ’23, Nielsen ’23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
January 25, 2023
Maya Lownie 24 and Haripriya Mallidi 23 perform a traditional Indian dance.
Circles 19: A Coffee House Returns in the Dining Commons
January 19, 2023
Gator Wins Third Crown Award
Gator Wins Third Crown Award
January 10, 2023
Photo courtesy of David Barron.
New Faculty Profile: Alex Ostergard
January 5, 2023
Happy Holidays: Newsroom to Reopen in 2023
Happy Holidays: Newsroom to Reopen in 2023
December 15, 2022
A rotating globe shows the carbon monoxide output around the world. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Pollution: Undermining Our Planet’s Health
February 8, 2023
Students gather together at the Delegate Dance, a tradition at YMUN.
Op-Ed: What YMUN Taught Me About Speaking Up
February 1, 2023
Artificial intelligence tools have surged in popularity among students for their ability to complete schoolwork.
Op-Ed: Will Artificial Intelligence Change Schools Forever?
January 30, 2023
Chinese new year fireworks. Celebration of lunar new year in Asia. Sparkles and glowing Happy new year sign on night sky. Luck and prosperity greeting card.
Op-Ed: Though Hazardous, Fireworks Essential to Chinese Culture
January 25, 2023
Photo illustration purchased from BigStock.com.
Op-Ed: The Pros and Cons of TikTok
January 23, 2023
Lower School students created a pride flag collage for Pride Month this year.
Editorial: In Support of Northwest High School’s Newspaper
September 23, 2022
Zak Adler 23 and Alison Rimas 23 walk down a one-way hallway last year, one of many health restrictions we have moved past since the start of the pandemic.
March 12: A Day to Define Our Generation
March 12, 2022
Editorial: School Deserves Praise for Community Uplift
Editorial: School Deserves Praise for Community Uplift
December 14, 2021
The Editorial Board strongly encourages all members of the School community who are eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as they can.
Editorial: Students, Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine
April 20, 2021
Gator Announces Next Years Leadership
Gator Announces Next Year’s Leadership
March 31, 2021
Temperatures dipped below 10 °F on campus today. Faculty and staff are encouraged to keep windows open to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Comic: It’s Cold Inside
January 11, 2022
Comic: Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas
Comic: Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas
December 17, 2021
The U.S. Justice Department recently filed a lawsuit against Texas over curbing voting by mail.
Comic: Justice Dept. Sues Texas Over Voting Restrictions
November 5, 2021
Comic: Wanna Be My Friend?
Comic: Wanna Be My Friend?
November 3, 2021
Comic: Get Your Booster Shot
Comic: Get Your Booster Shot
October 26, 2021
Students gather together at the Delegate Dance, a tradition at YMUN.
Op-Ed: What YMUN Taught Me About Speaking Up
February 1, 2023
Stahley poses with the Gator during a pep rally. Photo courtesy of Grace Papas 23
Hidden Hero of the Game: Trainer Larry Stahley
January 18, 2023
Demonstrators protest in Melbourne for a safer climate. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Summer 2022 Showcases Climate Crisis On Full Display
September 23, 2022
Leni Hicks-Dutt 23 starts a new 12th-grade tradition at the School.
Leni Hicks-Dutt ’23 Leads Community Mural Painting
September 21, 2022
Jeff Gates teaches a physical education class in the late 1990s.
After Nearly Three Decades, Athletic Director Jeff Gates Retires
May 31, 2022
Education of Our Educators: Michael Langlois
Education of Our Educators: Michael Langlois
February 8, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Jared Smith
Education of Our Educators: Jared Smith
February 7, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Joshua Neudel
Education of Our Educators: Joshua Neudel
February 3, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Mallorie Nai
Education of Our Educators: Mallorie Nai
February 3, 2023
Abigail Jacobs 25 and Mae Gordon 25 work in the library.
Photos: Week of Jan. 30
February 2, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Michael Langlois
Education of Our Educators: Michael Langlois
February 8, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Jared Smith
Education of Our Educators: Jared Smith
February 7, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Joshua Neudel
Education of Our Educators: Joshua Neudel
February 3, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Mallorie Nai
Education of Our Educators: Mallorie Nai
February 3, 2023
The faculty pose at Commencement last year. Photo courtesy of David Barron.
GNN: The Education of Our Educators
February 1, 2023
Abigail Jacobs 25 and Mae Gordon 25 work in the library.
Photos: Week of Jan. 30
February 2, 2023
Ady Jaeckel 25 writes on a water mat during the Temple Fair.
Photos: Week of Jan. 23
January 28, 2023
The festival.
Photos: Community Celebrates Year of the Rabbit with Temple Fair
January 26, 2023
TaQuan Williams 23.
Photos: Varsity Boys Secure Two Wins at Home
January 24, 2023
Toni Golston 23 warms up.
Photos: Varsity Girls Defeat Cambridge School of Weston at Home
January 24, 2023
In the woods, first-place finisher and league MVP Brian Gamble 23 takes a commanding lead at the 2022 league championships.
Podcast: XC Star Brian Gamble ’23 on Running, School, Life
November 17, 2022
“The middle school gardening club and these awesome radishes we grew.” — Jared Smith
Podcast: (Almost) Anything Goes with Jared Smith
April 11, 2022
Photo courtesy of Greg Lewis.
Podcast: Former NBC Olympic Broadcaster, Greg Lewis
February 16, 2022
Digital illustration by Edan Zinn 23.
Podcast: Mahlet Woldemariam ’95 on Vaccine Development
April 7, 2021
Digital illustration by Edan Zinn 23.
Podcast: Fighting the Pandemic with Dr. Kathy Taylor
March 31, 2021
Bryce Ruglass Dortch 24 drives to the hoop.
Varsity Boys Basketball Team Shines on the Court
February 2, 2023
Gamble 23, Nielsen 23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
Gamble ’23, Nielsen ’23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
January 25, 2023
TaQuan Williams 23.
Photos: Varsity Boys Secure Two Wins at Home
January 24, 2023
Toni Golston 23 warms up.
Photos: Varsity Girls Defeat Cambridge School of Weston at Home
January 24, 2023
TaQuan Williams 23 shoots a successful three pointer.
Photos: Varsity Boys Defeat Beaver 66-51
January 11, 2023
Poster courtesy of Universal Pictures.
Review: ‘Puss in Boots, The Last Wish’ Defies Expectations
January 17, 2023
Album cover courtesy of Solid State Records.
Review: The Devil Wears Prada’s ‘Color Decay’ Packs an Emotional Punch
January 16, 2023
Marlie Kass 23 awaits the start of the play. Photo courtesy of Kass.
‘Preludes’ by Dave Malloy is Genius in the Key of C♯ Minor
January 12, 2023
Photo courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes.
Review: ‘The Menu’ Serves Up Horror with a Twist
January 11, 2023
A Some Like it Hot playbill. Photo courtesy of Marlie Kass.
Review: ‘Some Like it Hot’ Takes Time to Warm Up
January 11, 2023
Poster courtesy of Universal Pictures.
Review: ‘Puss in Boots, The Last Wish’ Defies Expectations
January 17, 2023
Album cover courtesy of Solid State Records.
Review: The Devil Wears Prada’s ‘Color Decay’ Packs an Emotional Punch
January 16, 2023
Marlie Kass 23 awaits the start of the play. Photo courtesy of Kass.
‘Preludes’ by Dave Malloy is Genius in the Key of C♯ Minor
January 12, 2023
Photo courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes.
Review: ‘The Menu’ Serves Up Horror with a Twist
January 11, 2023
A Some Like it Hot playbill. Photo courtesy of Marlie Kass.
Review: ‘Some Like it Hot’ Takes Time to Warm Up
January 11, 2023
Lombardi Trophy-The ultimate goal for every NFL team. Photo Courtesy of WikiMedia Commons.
Op-Ed: The Road to Super Bowl LVII
February 8, 2023
Photo courtesy of BigStock.com
Poll: ‘Hay Day’ or ‘Township’
February 7, 2023
The Breakup of Netease and Blizzard: Who Gets Hurt?
The Breakup of Netease and Blizzard: Who Gets Hurt?
February 3, 2023
ChatGPT: Unlocking the Secrets of Language
ChatGPT: Unlocking the Secrets of Language
January 26, 2023
Photo illustration purchased from BigStock.com.
Op-Ed: The Pros and Cons of TikTok
January 23, 2023
The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA

The Gator
The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA

The Gator
Kate Hirschen

Kate Hirschen, Culture Editor

Kate has been a member of The Gator since freshman year and enjoys writing news stories and reviews. Outside of the newsroom, she enjoys spending time with friends and playing tennis.

All content by Kate Hirschen
Meet the next Editorial Board, a group of all-new student editors. Gator file photos.

Newsroom Announces 2023-2024 Editorial Board

February 3, 2023
Introducing Amelia Bowman '25 as Editor-in-Chief, Cathy Wu '24 and Evan Michaeli '24 as Executive Editors, and Madeleine Pogoda '24 as Arts & Culture Editor.
Gamble 23, Nielsen 23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams

Gamble ’23, Nielsen ’23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams

January 25, 2023
Brian Gamble '23 and Quinn Nielson '23 were recognized for their commitment to NCAA Division I teams.
Co-Editor-in-Chief Edan Zinn 23 leads the Wordle activity.

Newsroom Bonds Over Wordle Activity

January 12, 2023
As a fun activity for the first semester of the school year, the newsroom decided to partake in its own Wordle challenge.
Upper School Head Joshua Neudel photographed a bracket made by the Spanish Department before the Knockout stage. Photo courtesy of Neudel.

Community Bonds Over Watching the World Cup

December 9, 2022
Although the U.S. lost to the Netherlands, student spectators agree that the once-in-four-year event has brought the community together.
A screenshot of the Student Life Calendar last month.

Rehm-Robles Creates ‘Student Life Calendar’

December 1, 2022
The new Director of Student Life has spearheaded several 'Brimmer Social Hour' events this fall.
Photo courtesy of Jared Smith.

Fashion Flash: Jared Smith, Science Teacher

November 16, 2022
Recently, we sat down with Science Teacher Jared Smith to hear about his funky style.
Shyla Fernandes 25 rushes past a defender.

Despite Tied Games, Homecoming a Success

October 21, 2022
Spectators, coaches, and athletes agree that despite the close games, Homecoming 2022 was one to remember.
Photo courtesy of Libby Barker-Hook 23.

Fashion Flash: Libby Barker-Hook ’23

October 21, 2022

Many students at the School would consider Libby Barker-Hook ’23 to have a rather distinctive fashion sense. From her fun tights to large jewelry, The Gator sat down with Barker-Hook to hear more about...

Gator file photo.

New Faculty Profile: Christie DeNizio, Art Teacher

September 28, 2022
Recently, The Gator sat down with Christie DeNizio, a new Upper and Middle School Art Teacher.
Zak Adler 23, who recently recovered from COVID-19, returns to school with a mask on. Masks are more a common sight in the hallways this week.

‘Alive and Well in the Community’: COVID-19 Cases Continue

September 22, 2022
Although the uptick has kept some students and teachers at home, School Nurse Beth Escobar stresses that "this does not mean it's rampant."
Alison Rimas 23 begins her shift at the Swan Boats. Photo courtesy of Rimas.

Q&A: Alison Rimas ’23, Swan Boat Driver

June 3, 2022
Do you ever wonder what is it like to have a job at one of the most famous attractions in Boston?
Photos courtesy of Brimmer and May School.

Kassim ’24, Williams ’23, Altschul ’25 Elected to Senate E-Board

May 23, 2022
The new Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer discuss their plans for next year.
Zoe Hicks-Dutt 24 and Lei Hicks-Dutt 23 study outside.

What’s New in the Course Catalog for 2022-2023?

May 3, 2022
Learn about Social Justice Through Photography, Digital Photography, Piano and Guitar, Pop Culture and Jewish Immigration, Short Stories, and Asking the Big Questions.
Image courtesy of Brimmer and May School.

Q&A: Brett Kelly, Incoming Athletic Director

April 6, 2022
Meet Brett Kelly, who will begin work at the School on July 1.
Culture: Shoes of the Newsroom

Culture: Shoes of the Newsroom

March 30, 2022
Do the Gator staffers have shoe game?
Photo illustration courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

School to Begin Mask-Optional Policy Monday

February 25, 2022
“It’s not a ‘rip the mask off,’ but a dial-up, dial down,” Head of School Judith Guild said at a Middle and Upper School meeting earlier this week.
Leni Hicks Dutt 23 works on a painting of her great-great-grandmother.

New AP Studio Art Students Enjoying Class

February 18, 2022
Meet the new 11th-grade students in AP Studio Art, a rigorous three-semester class.
Latinx Affinity Group Founder Emma Guevara 23 poses.

#LatinxAtBrimmer: Guevara ’23 Starts Affinity Group

February 1, 2022
Students, faculty, and staff who identify as Latinx or Hispanic can attend to share their various cultures and discuss diversity-related topics.
Head of School Judith Guild supervises a science class.

With Omicron Surge, ‘All-Hands-On-Deck’ For Teacher Absences

January 21, 2022
After testing positive for COVID-19, several teachers are back to Zoom. Uncommon substitute teachers are stepping in to supervise classrooms.
Upper School students are required to take rapid tests twice each week. Photo illustration by Edan Zinn

Quarantined Students Face Make-Up Work

January 20, 2022
Without concurrent learning, some students here report worrying that a positive COVID-19 test could affect their academics. 
Students attend the 2020 Yale Model United Nations conference, which was held in person before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Model United Nations Club Prepares For Virtual Conference

January 6, 2022
From January 20-23, the Model United Nations club will attend a virtual conference held by Yale University.
Fashion Flash: Leni Hicks-Dutt 23

Fashion Flash: Leni Hicks-Dutt ’23

November 30, 2021
Hicks-Dutt has always had a love for clothes and shoes. Learn about how she expresses herself through fashion.
Tattes Avacado Tartine, which features avocado, baby arugula, dill, and radish topped with poached eggs on housemade sourdough, according to the cafes menu.

Food Review: Tatte Bakery & Cafe Opens In Newton

November 30, 2021
My experience at Newton's new Tatte location was amazing, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and delicious food.
The Gator-Aides with Associate Director of College Counseling Dona Rehm, a founder of the program.

Gator-Aide Program Welcomes New Students

November 19, 2021
Since the program's launch, new students report a welcome introduction to the School by the 12th-grade mentors.
All-School Harvestfest To Return

All-School Harvestfest To Return

October 27, 2021
On November 2 at 9:10 a.m., the School community will come together over crafts, music, and food at Harvestfest.
You may have heard of the cookie brand on social media. Photo courtesy of Crumbl Cookies.

Food Review: Crumbl Cookies, The Latest TikTok Trend

October 21, 2021
Crumbl Cookies is the viral TikTok trend that is sweeping the nation. With new flavors every week, a journey to Crumbl is always interesting.
Zakkai Mares-Van Praag 22 and Haleigh Jacobs 23 bump elbows on the field.

With State Reopening, Students Feel Normalcy Near

May 28, 2021
Students report that the atmosphere on campus is changing as COVID-19 restrictions lessen at School and in the state.
Sister campers pose in masks on campus.

Camp Returns Amid Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions

May 19, 2021
Between sports, academics, and games, camps at Brimmer Summer promise an experience that everyone can enjoy.
Rachel Sobel 23 catches a lacrosse ball.

Spring Sports Lifts Students’ Sprits

May 6, 2021
In a year with few interscholastic sports, the start of the spring athletics season has cheered many up on campus.
Gator file photo.

School to Host Virtual Green and White Auction

April 22, 2021
In the virtual event, members of the community have the opportunity to bid and offer items to raise money for the School.
Brian Gamble 23 reads the 2019-2020 yearbook. Photo illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

School to Gift Yearbooks To All Students

April 15, 2021
With this year heavily defined by changes due to COVID-19, a special edition of the yearbook will be offered for free to all students.
Students use Sora to access eBooks from their devices. Photo illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

Library Moves Online During COVID-19

April 7, 2021
Since books cannot be physically borrowed, the School's website now includes links to new online resources.
Gator photo illustration.

Music Review: Lady Gaga’s ‘Chromatica’

March 9, 2021
Though Chromatica never hit the top charts, it still featured some iconic songs. 
Music Review: Ariana Grandes Positions

Music Review: Ariana Grande’s ‘Positions’

February 22, 2021
I don’t think Ariana Grande's new album is terrible, but it’s not amazing either.
Students socialize outside while waiting for lunch.

Students Find Safe Ways to Socialize

February 9, 2021
Students here are doing their best to stay connected.
A view of Loon Mountain. Photo by Karly Hamilton 21.

Op-Ed: Skiing During COVID-19

January 13, 2021
Skiers and snowboarders often wear face coverings for warmth, so the implementation of masks does not hugely impact the experience.
Illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

Q&A: Teachers Write Original Upper School Musical

December 17, 2020
This year's musical is written by Creative Arts Department Chair Bill Jacob and music teacher Max Holman, as well as other community members.
Karly Hamilton 21 has spent time taking her cat outside while quarantined.

Pet Adoption During COVID-19

December 8, 2020
Adoption rates have increased since the pandemic began.
A blizzard from 2016 hammers campus. Gator file photo.

Winter Prompts Questions About Lunch, Snow Days

November 17, 2020
As colder months approach, new questions are being raised.
Prom will be held on the field to accommodate social distancing guidelines.

Op-Ed: To Fight COVID-19, Teens Must Act Responsibly

October 14, 2020
Safety precautions are being followed to various degrees, especially by teenagers.
Teacher hosting online class using video conference. Purchased from BigStock.com.

Concurrent Learning Continues

October 1, 2020
Students continue to learn on-campus and remotely.
Lower School students show off their craft hearts.

Community Supports #BrimmerCares Initiative

June 6, 2020
The initiative celebrates community members who are helping others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Music Review: Dua Lipas Future Nostalgia

Music Review: Dua Lipa’s ‘Future Nostalgia’

June 3, 2020
Dua Lipa has been rising to the top of the charts recently.
Urinetown: The Musical a Hit

‘Urinetown: The Musical’ a Hit

March 13, 2020
Last weekend, the cast of Urinetown took their debut center stage to a roaring audience.
Kass Advances to MA Shakespeare Competition

Kass Advances to MA Shakespeare Competition

February 18, 2020
Marlie's achievement will go down in Brimmer History.
Breanna Durand, Manzana, Photography, Gold Key

Students Win Eight Scholastic Art Awards

February 5, 2020
See the award-winning art.
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The Gator

The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA
69 Middlesex Road
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The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA
Kate Hirschen