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
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
Artificial Intelligence: Beyond the Buzzword
Artificial Intelligence: Beyond the Buzzword
May 16, 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
GNN: Spring Sports Update
GNN: Spring Sports Update
May 1, 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
Nico Jaffer

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor

Nico has been a student at Brimmer for 11 years. In his free time, he enjoys singing and skiing. He also enjoys writing articles and interviewing sources.

All content by Nico Jaffer

Ultimate Frisbee Reinstated as Physical Education Activity

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
April 13, 2023
After a six-year absence, Ultimate Frisbee has returned as a physical activity instead of a team sport.
Head Coach Jamie Lin, surrounded by her players after the win, holds the trophy.

Varsity II Boys Basketball Triumphs Over CCA in Championship

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 17, 2023
63-46, the team won its first MBIl Championship since 2007, marking a historic season with many successes and challenges.
Stahley poses with the Gator during a pep rally. Photo courtesy of Grace Papas 23

Hidden Hero of the Game: Trainer Larry Stahley

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
January 18, 2023
Community members regard Larry Stahley as a dedicated and kind member of the community, both on the court and in the classroom.
From 18 Down to One Up, Boys XC Wins Threepeat

From 18 Down to One Up, Boys XC Wins Threepeat

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
November 9, 2022
The Varsity Boys Cross Country Team won its third consecutive Massachusetts Bay Independent League title last week at Cambridge School of Weston.
A student poses in front of the Taj Mahal during Winterim 2019. Photo courtesy of the School.

Community Members Anticipate Winterim’s Return

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
November 1, 2022
After three years, the Upper School will revive its world travel program. Students and faculty report excitement for the educational experience.
Xavier Claiborne 24 dribbles past a Landmark defender.

Varsity Boys Soccer Anticipates a Challenge

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
October 14, 2022

The Varsity Boys Soccer Team, coming off of their recent 4-0 win over the Cambridge School of Weston, now turns their attention to their next game, where they match up with the Rocky Hill Country Day...

Brian Barrera 22 takes a corner kick during Homecoming in 2021.

Varsity Teams Prepare for Homecoming

Brian Gamble and Nico Jaffer
October 13, 2022
Coaches and players express excitement and anticipation for the game tomorrow.
Alison Rimas 23 serves it up during a practice scrimmage.

Photo | New Sport Spotlight: Varsity Volleyball

September 29, 2022

Alison Rimas '23 serves it up during a practice scrimmage.

3 Stripe Select Basketball Summer Circuit championship, traveling down to Los Angeles and winning 54-40 in the finals. The team succeeded throughout the tournament, finishing off with a 6-0 undefeated run to secure their title.

Off the School’s Court, Rivals Athletes Shine

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
September 27, 2022
As the Boys Varsity I Basketball team gears up for another strenuous season, Coach Nelson's Rivals team finds success.
A student poses in front of the Taj Mahal during Winterim 2019. Photo courtesy of the School.

Winterim to Return After COVID-19 Hiatus

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
May 31, 2022
The School has plans to relaunch Winterim next year after the pandemic halted the signature program.
Collage by Martin Maynard 22.

Alumni Basketball Players Bring in the Heat

Edan Zinn, Brian Gamble, Nico Jaffer, and Martin Maynard
May 17, 2022
On Saturday, the School invited alumni Basketball players back to campus to play in the first-ever Alumni Game.
Luc and Thompson sign their National Letters of Intent in November 2020. Photo courtesy of Brimmer and May School.

Kyrell Luc ’21 and Gianni Thompson ’21 To Transfer to St. Bonaventure, UMass

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
May 3, 2022

Recent graduate and basketball player Kyrell Luc '21 recently committed to St. Bonaventure University after spending his inaugural year lighting up the court at the College of the Holy Cross.  Luc...

Bryce Ruglass-Dortch ’24 goes in for two.

Okorougo ’22 and Ruglass-Dortch ’24 Win All-NEPSAC for V1 Basketball

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
April 1, 2022
Quinn Nielson '23 and Ismani Cepeda '22 also won an All-NEPSAC Honorable Mention.
Poll: 90 Percent of Students Surveyed Support Mask Mandate

Poll: 90 Percent of Students Surveyed Support Mask Mandate

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 18, 2022
Despite announcements of school mask mandates lifting in Massachusetts, the School has not followed suit—and most students polled concur.
Banners in the college counseling office. Gator file photo.

Op-Ed: Taking The Pressure Off College Admissions

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 10, 2022
As high school students, it shouldn't matter what our parents or peers think about our college choices.
Students at the School report getting less than 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Photo illustration by Toni Golston 24.

Op-Ed: The Teen Sleep Deprivation Epidemic Needs a Cure

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
January 13, 2022
Students everywhere are sleep-deprived and burnt out. We need a solution, even if it means changing school and sports schedules.
Jaffer poses with Fantasy Football Club leader Phillip Lull 23 and club advisor Pete Slaski.

Op-Ed: The Thrills of Fantasy Football

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
November 18, 2021
Fantasy is a unique strategic hobby that doesn't get the recognition it deserves.
Maggie Clifford 24, Chloe Scolnick 25, and Sammie Nudelman 25 hold up a blanket they made in Community Service Club.

Students Take the Lead with Fall Clubs

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
October 27, 2021
Student-led clubs are making a return. Discover Community Service Club, Fantasy Football Club, Strategic Games Club, and more.
Nielsen dunks at a Mass Rivals game. Illustration by Jackson Ostrowski 23.

Quinn Nielsen ’23: Shooting Hoops at 6’10”

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
September 29, 2021
While the Varsity I basketball player has already received offers from several NCAA Division I colleges, he hasn't made a decision quite yet.
Harrison Teschke, Ayanna Jefferson, and Emma Goldstone belay peers climbing a 35-foot wall.

Outdoor Education Field Trips Return

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
June 4, 2021
Now allowing off-campus field trips, the School has found fun ways to build community and make sure students stay active.
Commencement will be held on the Athletic Field this year.

School Prepares for In-Person Commencement

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
May 25, 2021
Adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols, The Class of 2021 will experience a modified, in-person Commencement ceremony.
Upper School History Teacher Ted Barker-Hook gives a lesson on The New York Times.

Curriculum Modified During COVID-19

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
April 27, 2021
Educators have had to adapt to various challenges during COVID-19, including teaching in-person and concurrently.
Gator file photo.

Community Members Reflect on Pandemic

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
April 12, 2021
While safety protocols are still being enforced, campus is starting to return to normal.
Illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

Q&A: Murray Reflects on Jeopardy!

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 23, 2021
Dean of Students Paul Murray reflects on his appearance.
Natalie Kozhemiakin 23 washes her hands before entering the Chase Building.

Community Reflects on Safety Protocols

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 2, 2021
Mask-wearing and hand-washing are now a part of people's everyday routines.
Sophia Spring 22 receives a PCR test.

Op-Ed: Weekly Testing Will Keep Campus Safe

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
January 19, 2021
Weekly COVID testing for students and faculty is a great way to keep campus safe.
Basketball going through the basket at a sports arena (intentional spotlight)

How COVID-19 Hurt Professional Sports

Nico Jaffer and Evan Michaeli
December 14, 2020
While I love watching sports, nobody's life should be at stake.
Gator file photo.

Students Share Thoughts on COVID-19 Testing

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
November 20, 2020
Students share their take on being tested.
Image courtesy of Alperin 21.

Alperin ’21 Files Patent on Problem Solving Project

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
November 16, 2020
Alperin hopes to patent her design, which helps stabilize walkers.
Photo illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

Students Enjoying One Schoolhouse

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
October 27, 2020
The partnership allows Brimmer to continuing offering lower enrolled but critical courses.
Photo Illustration by Edan Zinn 23.

Schedule Restructured to Ensure Safety

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
October 1, 2020
The updated schedule is adaptable to all learning environments.
Exam sheet. Photo illustration purchased from BigStock.com.

College Board Adjusts AP Exams

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
May 16, 2020
Advanced Placement exams have been restructured due to COVID-19.
Jordan Minor 19 interned with Athletic Director Jeff Gates for his Senior Project, helping in a Lower School gym class.

COVID-19 Forces Senior Project Restructuring

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
May 6, 2020
Many students are pursuing alternative options.
Photo illustration purchased from BigStock.com.

Op-Ed: How it Feels with Parents on the Front Line

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
April 16, 2020
Not everyone has the option to self-quarentine.
Nico Jaffer 23 (center) hugs his team after winning first place at the championship.

Op-Ed: The Path to Curling Success

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
March 9, 2020
Read about this student's first-year experience.
Gator file photo.

Guild Announces Plans for New Gym

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
February 26, 2020
The changes will be in place by 2026.
Photo illustration by Nico Jaffer 23.

Op-Ed: How I Learn Through Music

Nico Jaffer, Outgoing Sports Editor
January 30, 2020
Student shares passion for the Boston Children's Chorus.
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The student news site of Brimmer and May School | Chestnut Hill, MA
Nico Jaffer