Albany Union High School - Whirlwind Yearbook (Albany, OR)

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Introduction 5

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jSchool stresses vocations When the students talk about everyday life at West, academics is a much neglected sub- ject. Though not discussed as often as social events, academics provide the backbone of the school. With many new vocational and special interest classes being offered, the curriculum is ex- panding to include classes that provide a more varied background than was formerly avail- able. Discussion by faculty and administration of new state graduation requirements furthered the gradual changes in the curriculum. How- ever, results of the discussion will be more ■ apparent several years from now, since changes are being implemented first on the junior high level. 4 Introduction

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National events Life at West was affected by many incidents national, local and world wide. The first symptons of the energy crisis were reflected in long gas lines and dead neon signs. In response to lowered thermostats, many students wore coats in class and sat in dark rooms because of the contest with South Albany to save electricity. West won the con- test by cutting consumption by 22%. Cold halls however, did not dis- courage participation in the new phenomenon called streaking. The fad was short lived though, due in part to lack of interest. West Albany students were exposed to world affairs by speakers on the Arab-lsraeli conflict. Both sides were given equal time, and discussions in the little theater drew many stu- dents. affect students National affairs was the topic of Senator Robert Packwood's ques- tion and answer session at an all- school assembly. Senator Packwood cleared up many of the student's misconceptions about the workings of the government. 6 Introduction