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

The Gator
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Middle Schoolers Spread Environmental Awareness
May 11, 2023
Location of where students board for this years prom, Rowes Wharf.
Q&A: Prom-goers to Seas the Night
May 9, 2023
Jared Smith teaches Owen Williams 23 during chemistry.
The Legacy of Science Teacher Jared Smith
May 3, 2023
Maddie Pogoda ’25 and Math Lab Tutor Stanley Szwartz discuss a problem.
Stanley Szwartz: The Man Behind the Math Lab
April 26, 2023
Police personnel stand outside the entrance to the New York Criminal Court during the arraignment of Former President Donald Trump. Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Community Reacts to Trump’s Indictment
April 26, 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
Teachers and administrators recently announced the closure of the solarium, after repeated warnings to students to keep the space neat and clean during Upper School lunch.  
Closed: Solarium Left a Mess
May 15, 2023
A display of past yearbooks supplied by the School.
What Happened to Desktop Publishing?
May 11, 2023
The Summer Reading bracket outside the library.
Students to Choose Summer Reading
April 12, 2023
A model of the set for the US Musical. Photo by Evan Michaeli
Get Tickets for Upper School Musical
February 22, 2023
Gamble 23, Nielsen 23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
Gamble ’23, Nielsen ’23 to Join Division I Athletic Teams
January 25, 2023
Summer in Newport attracts several boaters in the waters of Brenton Cove. Photo Courtesy of Evan Michaeli.
Op-Ed: Top Uncommon U.S. Summer Vacations
June 1, 2023
Former President Donald Trump meets with Governor DeSantis in the White House.
Op-Ed: Republican Hypocrisy at All-Time High
May 31, 2023
Isar II power plant at work. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Op-Ed: Germany, a Pioneer in the Nuclear-Free Era
May 9, 2023
Taking an exam. Photo purchased from BigStock.com.
Op-Ed: As Finals Rapidly Approach, Self-Care is Key
May 3, 2023
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Op-Ed: Florida’s Bills are Unacceptable
April 21, 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
IMOCA Boats lined up at the dock in Newport, Rhode Island during the stopover for The Ocean Race. Photo Courtesy of Evan Michaeli.
The Ocean Race: Sailing Toward a Greener Future
May 30, 2023
People ride in the underground in Boston, commonly refereed to as the T. The metro Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates heavy-rail, light-rail and bus transit services in the Boston metropolitan area.
Tackling Public Transit in Massachusetts
May 25, 2023
History teacher Ted Barker-Hook engaging with his students. Photo by David Barron.
World History II Explores the Purpose of Education
May 24, 2023
Fans unfurl a Boston Strong banner during the 2013 Red Sox World Series Parade. Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Ten Years Later, We Remain Boston Strong
April 19, 2023
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
Live: Commencement 2023
Live: Commencement 2023
June 2, 2023
Photos: Week of May 25
May 31, 2023
Class of 1973 Embarks on Nostalgic Campus Tour
Class of 1973 Embarks on Nostalgic Campus Tour
May 24, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Peter Slaski
Education of Our Educators: Peter Slaski
May 23, 2023
Madeleine Pogoda, 25, works on her Journalism article.
Photos: Week of May 4
May 18, 2023
Live: Commencement 2023
Live: Commencement 2023
June 2, 2023
Class of 1973 Embarks on Nostalgic Campus Tour
Class of 1973 Embarks on Nostalgic Campus Tour
May 24, 2023
Education of Our Educators: Peter Slaski
Education of Our Educators: Peter Slaski
May 23, 2023
Artificial Intelligence: Beyond the Buzzword
Artificial Intelligence: Beyond the Buzzword
May 16, 2023
GNN: Devorah Heitner, Students and Screens
GNN: Devorah Heitner, Students and Screens
May 5, 2023
Photos: Week of May 25
May 31, 2023
Madeleine Pogoda, 25, works on her Journalism article.
Photos: Week of May 4
May 18, 2023
Sophia Bruno 23 discusses her schedule with Mr. Szwartz.
Photos: Week of Apr. 3
April 19, 2023
Audrey Pontiff 24 working on her Science homework.
Photos: Week of Mar. 27
April 4, 2023
Photos: Backstage Memories at Something Rotten
Photos: Backstage Memories at ‘Something Rotten’
March 11, 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
Athletic Director Brett Kelly leads the fall commitment ceremony for students.
Q&A: Brett Kelly Reflects on First Year as Athletic Director
May 23, 2023
GNN: Spring Sports Update
GNN: Spring Sports Update
May 1, 2023
V. Boys Lax Gears Up for Season Opener
V. Boys Lax Gears Up for Season Opener
April 21, 2023
Ultimate Frisbee Reinstated as Physical Education Activity
Ultimate Frisbee Reinstated as Physical Education Activity
April 13, 2023
Coach Dan Hurley speaks out before team departs for the Final Four - Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Op-Ed: UConn Conquers Men’s March Madness
April 12, 2023
Aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Netflix Docuseries Captures Boston Marathon Manhunt
May 23, 2023
Evil Dead Rise: is Horror on the Brink of Artistic Standstill?
Evil Dead Rise: is Horror on the Brink of Artistic Standstill?
May 18, 2023
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
The New Winnie-the-Pooh Horror Movie is Horrendous
May 2, 2023
A poster for thee Super Mario Bros. Movie. Photo provided by Wikimedia Commons.
Super Mario Movie Smashes Expectations
April 19, 2023
Infographic: The Powerful Psychology of Arts Education
Infographic: The Powerful Psychology of Arts Education
April 13, 2023
Aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Netflix Docuseries Captures Boston Marathon Manhunt
May 23, 2023
A poster for thee Super Mario Bros. Movie. Photo provided by Wikimedia Commons.
Super Mario Movie Smashes Expectations
April 19, 2023
Album cover courtesy of Apple Records.
Album Review: The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’
February 23, 2023
Album cover courtesy of Columbia Records.
Album Review: Billy Joel’s ‘The Stranger’
February 23, 2023
Rihanna performs live in Paris in 2011.
Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” Honors Chadwick Boseman’s Life
February 16, 2023
Karl Lagerfields designs on display by the windows of a Berlin shop. Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Op-Ed: Outfits Are the Cat’s Meow at the Met Gala
May 31, 2023
Photos Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Poll: Which Cat Outfit at the Met Gala was Better?
May 3, 2023
Screen with ChatGPT chat with AI or artificial intelligence. Man search for information using artificial intelligence chatbot.
No, AI Shouldn’t be Banned in School
April 21, 2023
Baden Howard 24 enjoys some free time in the Innovation Space.
Q&A: Incoming Senate President Baden Howard
April 13, 2023
National World Parkinsons Day Raises Awareness
National World Parkinson’s Day Raises Awareness
April 11, 2023
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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, Outgoing 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
Baden Howard 24 enjoys some free time in the Innovation Space.

Q&A: Incoming Senate President Baden Howard

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
April 13, 2023
The new Senate President wants to increase the frequency of food trucks for students to enjoy.
Daniel Murray 23 competes in his final Bonspiel.

Varsity Curling Sweeps Bonspiel Championship

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
February 28, 2023
On Monday, the Varsity Curling Team competed in its annual bonspiel competition, sweeping each match in their league.
Meet the next Editorial Board, a group of all-new student editors. Gator file photos.

Newsroom Announces 2023-2024 Editorial Board

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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’

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
October 21, 2022
Recently, The Gator sat down with Libby Barker-Hook '23 to discuss the best way to style an outfit.
Gator file photo.

New Faculty Profile: Christie DeNizio, Art Teacher

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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?

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
March 30, 2022
Do the Gator staffers have shoe game?
Photo illustration courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

School to Begin Mask-Optional Policy Monday

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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.

School to Gift Yearbooks To All Students

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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’

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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’

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

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

Community Supports #BrimmerCares Initiative

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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’

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
March 13, 2020
The stunning performance made audiences leave laughing.
Kass Advances to MA Shakespeare Competition

Kass Advances to MA Shakespeare Competition

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

Students Win Eight Scholastic Art Awards

Kate Hirschen, Outgoing Culture Editor
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