Claudia Elwell

Students pursue careers in military post-grad

Entering the military after high school, seniors are joining military academies or directly enlisting in a specific branch of the military.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief
May 31, 2024

Students pursue careers in military post-grad

Entering the military after high school, seniors are joining military academies or directly enlisting in a specific branch of the military.

Claudia Elwell, Co Editor-In-Chief
May 31, 2024

[Photo] Astronomy Club offers eclipse viewing opportunity

Melanie Vincent, Features Editor
May 3, 2024

FDA approves first over-the-counter birth control pill in U.S.

Attempting to make birth control more accessible to those in need, in 2023, Opill was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter use. Opill is expected to be available to the public in 2024, yet the exact date is unknown.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-in-Chief
April 4, 2024

ADL Youth Leadership Conference promotes anti-hate

By teaching how to combat hate through various workshops and facilitated activities, the Anti-Defamation League held its 17th annual Youth Leadership Conference at the Philadelphia Convention Center on November 29.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief
December 15, 2023

Pro: Movies provide other views, offer insight

With a chance to witness a book through someone else’s vision and interpretation, movie adaptations are often a vessel to reveal deeper insights within a book or to project new inside jokes on. Either way, book to movie adaptations are a necessary addition to the literary world.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief
November 3, 2023

Opioid settlement provides closure to victims

In an attempt to hold opioid manufacturers and distributors accountable for their contributions to the opioid epidemic, the National Opioid Settlement was reached between the U.S. government and said companies in 2022 and 2023. Pennsylvania will receive $1.07 billion throughout the next 18 years.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief
November 3, 2023

In Memoriam: Valerie Ford ‘I knew her as a teacher.’

Approaching life with curiosity and love, science teacher Valerie Ford strove to curate an environment that encouraged learning and exploration.

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief
November 3, 2023

A passion for fashion

With her enthusiasm for fashion to express her creativity and to build confidence, senior Rachel Schewe has gained a reputation for being Souderton’s best dressed senior, landing her the Best Dressed award for this year’s senior superlatives.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
June 10, 2023

D.C. trip results in ‘yeas’ not ‘nays’

To celebrate the end of the academic year, the social studies department took AP U.S. History and AP Government students to Washington, D.C. on May 15.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
June 2, 2023

Red, White and Berdy: Souderton senior most likely to be president

Due to his reputation for being scholarly yet open minded and approachable, senior Kyle Berdy is seen as Souderton’s most suitable senior to become America’s future president. In the meanwhile, Berdy plans on studying biomedical engineering at Penn State in the upcoming fall.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
June 2, 2023

Senior sparkles with school spirit

Through her term as Student Council President and inherent outgoing nature, senior Alexa Mazzeo has continually shown school spirit and pride for Souderton throughout her high school career. Mazzeo plans on carrying this enthusiasm into Ursinus College this fall.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
June 2, 2023

I’m Always Write: Lana’s newest album is a work of personal, poetic art

By mixing soft vocals and poetic lyrics, artist Lana Del Rey’s newest album titled “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd” continues the themes of reflection and familial importance first distinguished in her 2021 album “Chemtrails Over the Country Club.”

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
May 5, 2023

Immersive Earth education expands youth’s hearts, minds, souls

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
May 5, 2023

WHYY educates via multiple mediums

Ensuring that people in the Philadelphia metropolitan area are accurately represented, WHYY prioritizes covering various topics missed by mainstream media.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
May 5, 2023

Issue 4 Thumbs Up

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
March 31, 2023

I’m Always Write: ‘Impractical Jokers’ live brings nostalgia, laughter

To celebrate the legacy of their hidden-camera TV show “The Impractical Jokers,” jokers Brian ‘Q’ Quinn, James ‘Murr’ Murray and Sal Volcano hit the road for their nation-wide tour called The Drive Drive Drive Drive Drive Tour. The show was enjoyable and sentimental, creating an atmosphere of memorable laughs.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
March 31, 2023

CDs, vinyls still hold value today

Returning to old forms of absorbing music, many have begun collecting CDs and vinyl records, offering a new level of exposure and meaningfulness.

Claudia Elwell and Madison Stine
March 31, 2023

NFL continues to excuse abuse culture

[Arrowhead Sportorial] For the sake of turning a profit, the NFL continues to fail to properly discipline players for misdemeanors.

Zoe Bass and Claudia Elwell
March 31, 2023

Issue 4 Thumbs Down

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
March 31, 2023

Arrowhead Book Review: ‘Princess’ gives voice to Saudi Arabia’s women

In “Princess: A True Story of Life Behind the Veil in Saudi Arabia,” author Jean Sasson gives readers unprecedented access to what women’s lives are truly like in a country where women are granted almost no freedoms.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
February 10, 2023

Varsity boys basketball prioritizes character over points

To create a base of good character, varsity boys basketball Coach Okoteh Sackitey emphasizes essential core values. The basketball team has volunteered with Philadelphia Youth Basketball to establish community relationships and improve as individuals and a team.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
February 10, 2023

U.S. gun policy fails to balance freedom, safety

[An Arrowhead Commentary]Guns are deeply ingrained in U.S. culture, with interest groups existing across the entire spectrum of gun contol policies. The lack of action to implement safety regulations puts civilians at risk for being affected by irresponsible or intentionally harmful gun use.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
February 6, 2023

I’m Always Write: ‘Shady Hollow’ takes twist on murder mystery genre

Through their use of mystic worldbuilding and creation of woodland creatures as characters, author Juneau Black crafts a subversive murder mystery. “Shady Hollow” is a clever, quick-read and perfect for a chilly day spent in bed.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
December 16, 2022

Celebrate the season of giving by baking festive treats

As the holiday season approaches, a simple way to showcase appreciation is through the baking of classic holiday desserts.

Madison Stine and Claudia Elwell
December 16, 2022

[Photo] French Club offers way to celebrate culture

Lauren Fisher, Staff Writer
December 16, 2022

[Photo] Women’s Studies class expands perspective of history

Jadyn Vinhar-Robinson, Staff Writer
December 16, 2022

English classes produce life-long memories

Many approach required English classes with disdain and dread. But as I look back on my experiences in these classes, I can’t help but cherish the memories and skills that I’ve learned that make me love and appreciate books.

Claudia Elwell, Opinion Editor
October 28, 2022

Philly allows celebration of ethnic diversity

[Editor’s Note: First in an occasional series exploring Philadelphia.] Welcoming a mixed variety of cultures, Philly provides a plethora of ways to enjoy various ethnic backgrounds

Madison Stine and Claudia Elwell
October 28, 2022

Overturning Roe v. Wade is not a ‘pro-life’ decision

An Arrowhead Special News Commentary

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
May 26, 2022

Eighth grade mixer excites

To help ease the transition from middle school to high school, Link Crew held their annual Eighth Grade Mixer. The mixer helped students get to know each other and the school better.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
May 26, 2022

Music can negatively impact impressionable teens

By heavily associating themselves with certain styles of music, many artists generate a greater influence upon their fans, who in turn mirror their lyrics and lifestyle. This influence can be dangerous to impressionable fans.

Claudia Elwell and Madison Stine
April 25, 2022

In defense of Rory Gilmore of ‘Gilmore Girls’ (part two)

[Editors Note: This is the conclusion of a two part series dissecting Rory Gilmore’s character. Check out part one in our April 2022 issue.]

Claudia Elwell and Madison Stine
April 25, 2022

True crime media impacts behavior, desensitizes

Over the decades, data regarding the way serial killers behave and advanced strategies and materials to detect serial killers has increased public knowledge of serial killers.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
April 25, 2022

It’s time to give Rory some ‘Gilmore Girls’ glory

[Editor’s Note: First in a two-part series dissecting Rory Gilmore’s character.] Spoiler Alert: If you have yet to watch this unconventional yet endearing 2000s series, you may want to read this article after you have finished binging it.

Claudia Elwell and Madison Stine
March 24, 2022

Schools ban various books locally, across the country

Due to themes of racial identity and sexual orientation, some districts are banning books ranging from children’s books to classics. Pennridge School District is one them.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
March 24, 2022

Contextualizing the Russia-Ukraine War

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
March 24, 2022

New Supreme Court case threatens Roe v. Wade

In an attempt to overturn Roe v. Wade, in 2018, Mississippi passed a law that bans abortions past 15 weeks. This case sparks debate around the necessity of Roe v. Wade.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
February 9, 2022

‘The epic highs and lows’ of ‘Riverdale’ deserve more credit

Continuing on the legacy of the ‘Archie Comics’, the CW teen drama “Riverdale” provides a modern twist while trying to retain the classic charm of the original comics. The show, which has been airing since 2017, has lost its intended essence, but still remains a controversial piece of entertainment.

Madison Stine and Claudia Elwell
February 8, 2022

No sugarcoating: ‘The Great British Bake Off’ reigns supreme

By whipping up the perfect recipe for a baking show, ‘The Great British Bake Off’ delights viewers with a fresh take on amateur baking. Many U.S. baking shows focus more on competition and dramatizations, taking away from the true essence of baking.

Madison Stine and Claudia Elwell
December 10, 2021

Diet culture causes anxiety, shame during holidays

By imposing strict rules on diet to achieve a body shape that society accepts, diet culture causes low self esteem and stress. During the holidays, a time where food is often essential to celebration, it causes negative experiences.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
December 8, 2021

SAVE club to hold Santa in the Greenhouse event

To raise money for greenhouse supplies, the Students Against Violating the Earth (SAVE) club greenhouse growers will be holding the Santa in the Greenhouse event on December 11 from 9 a.m.-11 p.m. at the greenhouse on the Souderton Area High School campus.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
December 7, 2021

Texas abortion ban sparks reaction from students

The Texas Heartbeat Act bans all abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
November 3, 2021

What to know for the school board election

Claudia Elwell, News Editor
November 3, 2021

SASD members reflect on Covid school year

After dealing with new obstacles in school caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, such as mental health issues or transitioning to virtual school, many SASD members reflect on their different experiences. Many also hope to return to normalcy for the 2021-2022 school year.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
June 4, 2021

Derek Chauvin faces trial for death of George Floyd

After his arrest due to the use of excessive force on African American George Floyd, former police officer Derek Chauvin faced a trial for Floyd’s murder at Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The video of Floyd’s death while being arrested went viral and protests broke out.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
May 7, 2021

Politicization and aspects of American culture cause preventable COVID-19 deaths

Propaganda spread by former President Donald Trump and aspects of American culture result in preventable Covid-19 deaths in America during the Covid-19 pandemic. The politicization of masks and culturally valuing individual liberties over what is in the best interest of the public are major factors in America’s large number of COVID-19 deaths.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
April 9, 2021

Some Americans opt to settle for Biden during 2020 presidential election

To avoid former President Donald Trump from entering a second term, some Americans ranging from being politically on the left to the right settle for Joe Biden. Americans settled for Biden by voting for him in the 2020 presidential election and are planning to hold him accountable throughout his presidency.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
February 12, 2021

Americans appreciate inclusivity of Inauguration

Viewing the 2021 Presidential Inauguration resulted in many Americans recognizing and appreciating the inclusivity of the people who attended and were part of the Inauguration. At the Inauguration, there were women, people of color, and young Americans.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
February 12, 2021

Politics entering social media causes reactions among Gen Z

By utilizing social media platforms due to the rise of users on social media throughout the past years, politicians cause positive and negative reactions from some of social media’s most prominent users: Generation Z.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
December 23, 2020

Concerns about mail-in voting increase provokes conversation among Americans

As more voters turn to mailing in their ballots instead of voting in person due to safety concerns about Coronavirus, swing state citizens worry about votes being discounted because of mail-in voting technicalities. In addition to void votes, both the Democratic and Republican parties worry that international interests could tamper with mail-in voting.

Claudia Elwell, Staff Writer
November 12, 2020

Claudia Elwell, Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Arrowhead