Sayreville War Memorial High School - Quo Vadis Yearbook (Parlin, NJ)

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The every day sights and colors of the streets are reflected in Pat Tomaszewski's still life painting. hands at the Rainbow Connection. LEFT: While taking advantage of a kaleidoscope of colors Lisa Roesner tries to creatively, com- plete her assignment. 8 Introduction

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New Perspe What do you mean, “What’s so great about our school?” For one thing, not every school offers an op- tional half-day program for seniors, something which each student an- ticipates during their underclass years. That’s about it. In all seriousness, SWMHS is not the horrible place some individuals make it out to be. Candy sales, assembly pro- grams, and extracurricular activities to suit everyone’s taste combine to enhance each student’s routine. On a more diverse level, the Sayreville educational system offers excellent opportunities for students and community members as well. Adult courses and programs such as Gifted and Talented and Brain Bowl testify to the expansion of the school’s offerings. Original in-class presenta- tions add some fun to otherwise tedious classes as well as aiding in the learning process. Career-oriented courses such as Beauty Culture and Computer Science utilize specific skills in preparing students for their futures. Thus, those quick to criticize should consider the words of Victor Hugo: “Above the cloud with its shadow is the star with its light.” Shouldn’t we search for those stars? A rebirth in Bomber team pride is exemplified by the painting of a spirit banner. Physical improvements on the school’s exterior include the addition of a handicap ramp which is being used by Kate Briody, one of the walking wounded. Introduction 7

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The Artful Dodgers BELOW: Giving his imagination free reign, Mark Polak improves upon the traditional skull and crossbones. BELOW RIGHT: A creative mind, various beads, and colored strings help Sandy Unkel turn the traditional macrame knots into a beautiful wall hanging. While the typical SWMHS student greets each school day with tired eyes and a less than optimistic face, there is a select group whose members ar- rive at class with bright eyes and en- thusiastic smiles. These are the artists, not only the painters and sculptors, but also the talented vocalists, dancers, actors, musicians, writers, and skilled craftsmen who dedicate themselves to furthering their abilities in their chosen fields. It is to these individuals that Emer- son referred when he wrote, “As all men have some art or power of com- munication in their heads, but only in the artist does it descend into the hands.” Hence, to the band member, the woodworker and the creative writer, school is not the most dreadful six and a half hours of the day, but an institution which offers them the op- portunity to express themselves in a unique, individualistic manner. Looking toward the future, such courses that allow students to learn through the creative process, may shed a new light on education, giving them a more prestigious position in to- day’s learning experience. Introduction 9