The Student News Site of The Webb Schools

Webb Canyon Chronicle
The Student News Site of The Webb Schools

Webb Canyon Chronicle
The Student News Site of The Webb Schools

Webb Canyon Chronicle
Alina Li (‘25) stood confused, thinking about the design of Poda’s newest tube matcha. The brand had sparked heated discussion earlier regarding its controversial marketing tactics. “I don’t think that a lot of the claims they made in their marketing video are true,” Alina said. Many other Webb students are also puzzled on Mujtaba Waseem, Poda CEO’s marketing strategy.
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Poda uses inconsiderate marketing methods for new tube matcha
Bella Schnurer and Sandy Li | May 23, 2025

In early April, a new matcha brand, Poda, owned by Mujtaba Waseem, entered the social media spotlight...

Steve Wishek, Director of Athletics and Afternoon Activities, speaks with Qianqian Jia (‘25) about a basketball game. For years, students have come to this door to change their afternoon activities, obtain exemptions, or simply chat. “Mr. Wishek really understands the student experience and what particular problems we might be going through,” said Tony Gao (‘26), Mr. Wishek’s advisee. But as he prepares to depart next year, let’s reflect on the legacy Mr. Wishek has left during his 22 years at Webb.
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A game at a time, Steve Wishek writes his legacy with care
May 22, 2025

At first, Steve Wishek, Director of Athletics and Afternoon Activities, was turned down when applying...

Professor Olga Korosteleva from California State University Long Beach hands the SCASA Regional Data Visualization Poster Competition plaque to Anna Park (‘26). The award was presented in the Fawcett Library in front of the Charles Huang Innovation Wing. “I learned from my own experiences that social awareness and community engagement often spark meaningful scientific inquiries,” said Anna.
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Student Spotlight: Anna Park receives notable SCASA regional award
Stephanie Ma and Lauren Gutierrez | May 16, 2025

It’s no secret that a Webbie’s schedule is busy—filled with class periods, homework, leadership...

Claire Yu (‘27) and Grace Zhu (‘25) have a funny and serious conversation as they sit together in the Jones upstairs common room area. Grace shares some of her most crucial tips that got her through junior year as Claire begins to prepare herself for her first upperclassman year. “It's nice to have a friend like Grace who has experienced things that I haven't experienced yet so that I have an idea of what I'll be doing soon.” Claire said. “Talking with Grace about her experience has taught me that every student has their own unique journey, but we can also get good advice from our senior friends.”
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What I Wish I Knew
Sydney Morales | May 14, 2025

To the freshmen...  After you graduated 8th grade, you may have thought you had it all figured out....

At the summit of a 12-mile hike with an elevation of 3,400 feet, Webbies reached a milestone. This challenge was a practice hike offered by Webb, but many seniors did this journey as their first practice hike, making it a physical hardship. "It was pretty hard on the uphill because it was steep, but it was a good accomplishment to get to the top and see the views,” Frannie Hinch (‘25) said. Frannie demonstrated it is worth the push, so it is important to find a way for all seniors to make the practice hikes.
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Seniors struggle to complete practice hikes
Berklee Antecol and Sydney Mildon | May 10, 2025

The treacherous climb, endless miles looming ahead, begins for the seniors. The real question is: will...

AP textbooks—given to students in the beginning of the year—for calculus, statistics, and biology sit in a pile, a common sight in many student dorms. “I want students to have a class that they can be exposed to the large area of the subject,” said Dr. Joseph Martin, science department faculty. “The Advanced Studies courses let us keep what we like while customizing the classes to better suit our campus.” With the replacement of Advanced Studies courses, students no longer need to study the entire textbooks; they can follow Webb’s own curriculum with a steady pace.
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Last AP exams for students at Webb
Emma Liu | May 7, 2025

This week, many students at Webb has been revolving their lives around reviewing and preparing for the...

A black-and-white glimpse into tradition: the Class of 1970 crosses Alamo Lawn during commencement, their steps echoing the values of growth, honor, and transition that have long defined the Webb experience. For decades, this walk has symbolized not just the end of high school, but the beginning of a lifelong journey rooted in community and character. This walk will now be highlighted in the class of 2025's commencement to honor the longstanding tradition. “Walking across the Alamo has always meant you made it—not just academically, but as a person shaped by this place,” said Dr. Farke, Director of Research and Collections and longtime senior advisor.
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Two schools, one stage: Webb combines VWS and WSC commencement
Chijioke Mgbeke | May 6, 2025

In a historic move, Webb will host its first intentional and officially unified commencement ceremony...

Webb student Candice Tang (‘26) is sitting in the study room in the Webb library. She is frustrated to see her many talented musician friends that have opportunities taken away from them just because they are considered different from societal expectations. “It sucks to see how such talented students are kept away from reaching their dreams because of such a corrupted industry.” Candice said. Many other Webb students feel the same frustrations that Candice feels.
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How the exclusivity of the music industry affects aspiring Webb artists
Bella Schnurer | May 6, 2025

The Webb Schools, an institute that fosters creativity and ambition, is home to aspiring artists who...

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TRENDING NOW
1
Alina Li
Alina Li
2
Jialu Chen (‘24) listens to “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)”, her favorite vault track written by Taylor Swift.
An analysis of 13 of Taylor Swift’s best songs
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Maya Chin (‘26) plays Block Blast on her phone during her free block in Stockdale Community Center. Block Blast is a mobile game similar to Tetris and has two game modes. "I think a lot of people play [Block Blast], but I don't know how many people are willing to admit it,” Maya said. “Since I’ve downloaded it and brought it up to other people, I’ve seen them also download and play it. I’ve seen some crazy high scores which are not healthy; they probably spent at least 3 hours trying to get it.”
Block Blast: are our attention spans “cooked”?
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Allison Paik
Allison Paik
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Ya Ya hanging out in a tree enjoying her days in her enclosure at the Memphis Zoo. Photo courtesy of Memphis Zoo Staff.
The Memphis Zoo is not mistreating pandas
Columns and Series
Standing in front of the Jackson Library, Stephanie Ma (‘25), Co-Editor of Opinion and honor council member, ponders over Neria Spence’s “Disband the Honor Council” Hot Take Tuesday. Disagreeing with the hot take, she decides to respond.
HC Corner part 2: response to Hot Take Tuesday “Disband the Honor Council”
Arts Adventure
Arts Adventure
Sophie Lin (‘26) sits in the common area of Jones dormitory with a guitar on her lap, writing a song. Music is a shared interest and hobby among many Webb students because it can easily resonate and connect with different people. “I really appreciate the beauty of melodies. I can express myself freely through music.” said Sophie.
How to write a song
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News
After years of student complaints and broken fountains, the campus is finally taking a fix at promoting hydration at Webb. The water fountain by Chandler Field has been fixed, marking Webb’s progress toward fulfilling its end-of-year water station plan. “I used to carry around an empty bottle all day because there was nowhere to refill it,” Jayden Aleman (‘26) said. The fix is part of a broader effort to improve sustainability and student well-being. With more stations expected soon, staying hydrated at Webb is finally becoming easier.
Webb’s plan to improve campus facilities
Chijioke Mgbeke, Staff Writer | April 17, 2025
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Caption: Finn Bulson (‘25) answers a call from his dad and freezes. A shooting threat reported on the Claremont McKenna College campus—where his dad works. His appetite vanishes; concern turns to panic, and Finn heads home. "I just wanted to make sure everything was okay," Finn said.
CMC swatting call raises questions about school security measures
Zona Zhou, Copy Editor | March 28, 2025
Ash Cortéz ('28) stands in the Quad, holding the Mexican flag as she looks up at the American flag towering above her—a moment that reflects the complex emotions surrounding immigration policies and national identity. “The protests had a profound impact on me—they brought me down at times, but they also inspired me. I wanted so badly to be there, to be out in the streets, actively supporting the cause” said Ash Cortéz (‘28). This quote shows Ash's struggle, feeling both discouraged by the challenges her community faces and inspired by the protests.
Anti-Ice protests and immigration policy: how Webb students are affected
Chijioke Mgbeke, Staff Writer | March 10, 2025
As the drumbeats, mystical creatures of blue and red scales entered. This mysterious creature is the dragon and lion for the lion dance performance. These traditions, fortunately, bring a sense of home to international students. “Watching the lion dance reminds me of performances I watched at home in Shanghai,” said Jessica Lu (‘27).
How different cultures at Webb Celebrates Lunar New Year.
Anna Meng and Emma Liu | February 25, 2025
Alexandra Wang (‘27) took this photo on her balcony back at Arcadia, documenting the rapid spread of the Eaton fire in Altadena. Along with the dry Winter weather and rapid blowing Santa Ana winds from inland, the fire exponentially increased in a short period of time, spreading fear among many local residents as well as Webb students tracking the hourly growth of the fires on the Calfire website, “I noticed that the Eaton Fire was getting close to my home in Arcadia on the evacuation map on Tuesday night, so I was kind of worried,” Kevin Wang (‘27) said. Boarding students with homes near the fires felt anxious especially, fearing their family’s potential evacuation.
Gale Force Tuesday: Webb tackles extreme winds and the Californian fires
Andy Liu and Alexandra Wang | February 12, 2025
Opinion
Flags of Vivian Webb school and Webb school of California hanging the front of Vivian Webb Chapel. During Sunday Chapel, speakers deliver talks on the podium and students sit in the back pews. “I really enjoyed the talk of the speakers every day, and I feel like I always gain new insights.” Jerry Hu (‘26) said.
Sunday Chapel brings together Webb community
Catherine Shen, Editor of Audiovisual | April 30, 2025
Many Webb students spend their free time in the library watching a popular TV show like Riverdale and Euphoria. “Based off what I’ve seen, like in Euphoria, because the actors are older, they don't showcase an actual high school life properly,” Sochika Ndibe (‘26) said. “Since [the actors] are older [and] playing a teenager, from a girl’s perspective, it is going to make you think you should look more developed at a young age.” The actor, who plays Veronica Lodge, was 22 years old at the time of filming.
Media promotes unrealistic beauty standards
Berklee Antecol, Chief of Social Media | March 23, 2025
Being recognized by a peer for being responsible as a leader is always a joyous experience. Lucci Troendle (‘26), South Hutch prefect, embraces this moment by pondering who left him this positive comment. Being a leader for Lucci means enjoying the job and developing passion for the role, especially in the dorm. “I really enjoyed being in the dorm, so the idea of being a leader within the dorm was really appealing to me, and the more I engaged in the process, I realized that I really liked this job,” Lucci said. “Now that I could do it, I could not be happier.”
Leadership application culture
Anna Meng, Staff Writer | March 20, 2025
In February 2025, Los Angeles witnessed significant anti-ICE protests in response to intensified immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump's administration. Thousands of demonstrators marched from Olvera Street to City Hall and subsequently blocked the 101 Freeway. “By the time we were on the street, you couldn't see anyone—it was just like a sea of people,” Priscilla Centeno (‘24) said. Despite the scale of the protests and the freeway blockade, no arrests were reported.
How America swung right and what it cost us
Elena Petrova, Editor-in-Chief | March 12, 2025
Skimming the brief prompt for his in-class essay in Advanced Studies Existentialism, Andy Liu ('26) feels the pressure mounting. With no chance for revisions, every word must land perfectly. He knew the clock would be ticking, and preparation is key to formulating a clear and concise argument in 70 minutes. “It’s one and done,” said Jaeho Lee (‘28), echoing the stress of high stakes writing.
Over preparation dissuades risk-taking
Andy Liu | March 11, 2025
Language exclusion is a complicated issue at Webb. On one hand, Webb wants its students to feel comfortable around campus by being able to speak their native language. On the other hand, it has become an issue around campus where some students speak in their shared language, leaving others feeling awkward. “I think [language exclusion] has gotten better in the past year, but [our efforts] are definitely not enough,” Triet Pham (‘26) said.
Awareness alone will not solve language exclusion — we need kindness
Zona Zhou, Copy Editor | March 10, 2025
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Culture and Lifestyle
Kenny Clay (‘25) poses with his mother, who beams with pride after Kenny’s concert. Mother’s Day looks different for Kenny as a boarding student. “I can't be with my mom for Mother's Day this year,” Kenny said, “You have to work with the distance.” Despite the immense distance between them, Kenny still finds a way to make his mom feel special on Mother’s Day.
Moments for mom: how Webbies celebrate Mother’s Day.
Ava Crane | May 23, 2025
In today's digital age, highschoolers get the opportunity to explore the different ways that social media can be used. Students at Webb have found ways to enjoy the content creation experience. “In terms of boarding school content, I like making long form content because people can binge watch it when they are doing chores or getting ready in the morning,” Jayden Aleman (‘26) said. “But, if I ever want to hit a quick dance, then I would steer to short form content.” Instead of shying away from major platforms students like Jayden have built the courage to create uplifting content.
How to embrace social media and content creation
May 4, 2025
The Webb Schools’ calendar is filled with fun events that bring the community together. In October, Halloween transforms the campus with haunted houses and Zombie Apocalypse organized by the prefect council. As the year ends, the Holiday Party offers cozy activities like caroling, hot cocoa, and gingerbread house decorating. In the spring, Jubilee celebrates student talent with music and dance performances. Theme Night, the highlight of Theme Week, features class skits and dances that show off creativity and teamwork. These events are an important part of life at Webb, creating a lively and welcoming community.
Which Webb event matches your vibe?
April 28, 2025
During lunch, many Webb students pack into the library to sit together and do homework. Due to the busy schedule that Webb puts on students, a lot of them try to start their homework early so their work is not overwhelming in the evenings. “I usually go to my dorm or the library to do homework during lunch,” Sochika Ndibe (’26) said. “I usually have many hours of homework to do every day, so I like to get a head start on it, so I am not working on homework for hours at a time.”
Stress affects teenagers’ mind across all school environments
March 27, 2025
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Features
Emrick Dammeier (‘25), stands at the seventh hole of Pebble Beach Golf Course near Monterey, California, and hits a crisp shot toward the green. “There's no better feeling than hitting a confident good shot up at Pebble Beach,” Emrick said. “You just think about all the greats that have played there, and it's something inside you that feels amazing knowing you're playing it too.” As his ball lands, ocean waves crash against the cliffs of the course, and he smiles and lets out a sigh of relief admiring his shot.
Emrick Dammeier: No Pressure
Ethan Normann | May 23, 2025
Webb’s band, 7-10 brought the crowd to life, showcasing their vast talents from saxophone, to bass, to drums. Yichen Sun (‘27), James Base (‘26) and Ender Liu (‘25) were a part of the band’s early formation during last years Unbounded Days, but the group has grown, and new members have joined. “What I enjoyed and what made the event stand out was the opportunity for everyone to showcase their musical abilities and their love for music,” said Jayden Aleman (‘26), Jubilee performer and organizer. The event brought people together over the shared love for music.
Soundtrack of the semester: Webb’s Coachella
May 21, 2025
Two posters lie side by side: on the left, Geoffrey Yang’s (’26) rough draft features a quick sketch with "We have Chemistry” with a simple outline of "Prom.” On the right, his final version for asking Maya Chin (’26) is carefully drawn with colored lettering and personalized elements spelling out "PROM” using the periodic table. "I thought it was a personal touch to the poster since we both liked chemistry,” Geoffrey said.
How to make the perfect promposal
May 13, 2025
Prom happens every year, and yet the promposals are vastly different and unique to the pair going. Whether someone asks a friend or a loved one, there is a story and emotions behind each ask. Social Media platforms like Instagram (@webbstugov) make it easier than ever to support friends and witness promposals, serving as one of the best unifiers of the Webb community. However, what is the context behind some of the most liked proposals for this year’s Tale as Old as Time prom?
Webb Promposals 2025
May 10, 2025
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Sports
After an impressive 64 to zero defeat against Workman High School, Stratton Rebish (‘24), Troy Seanoa (‘24), and Ale Fountain (‘24) pose for a picture with Michael Dunford. “It was a nice win coming off back-to-back losing seasons, and it had a lot to do with Dunford and his coaching, inspiring us to believe which helped us keep winning,” Troy said. Under the leadership of Coach Dunford, the Gauls defense continued to have a stellar season, helping propel the team to a 12-1 record and playoffs for the first time in 4 years.
Coach Michael Dunford, shaping leaders through sports
Ethan Undello, Editor of Sports | March 18, 2025
The girls' basketball team rallied in pink ribbons, ready to gather their support for cancer survivors while playing a nail-biting game. Bolstered by their competitive spirit, the team joined with the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches in an event called Coaches vs. Cancer. “By being here, you are showing that your community stands united,” said Coach Kays, science department faculty and Webb’s girls’ basketball head coach “You're demonstrating that in the face of cancer, we refuse to be silent.” The game included packed stands with fans supporting the team, and the cause!
Girls’ basketball takes on a bigger cause
Lily Youngstrom | February 7, 2025
On one of the Webb robotics team’s new Skytech Nebula computers is Jake Hui (‘25), engineer of Webb’s 358 Robotics team who is currently improving his team’s robot virtually in a Computer Aided Design application, or CAD. Before the building, the driving, and the victories, comes the prototyping of the robot. “Right here [on his computer] is where the robot is designed, and I have access to all the parts that I need to try things out,” Jake said. Technical computer skills as well as an intimate knowledge of how robots work is required to efficiently work in the CAD design space. The skills are well worth the time spent, as it can save hours or even days' worth of time spent on assembly in the real world. "If there is a piece that we don’t have, 3D print it to see if it's really necessary before making an expensive purchase, as the parts can cost hundreds of dollars,” Jake said.
Webb robotics: showcasing every part of the machine in action!
Phillip Park | February 7, 2025
Tracy Ren (‘28) stands on the outdoor courts, ready to practice for the girls’ JV team. Her excitement to improve is infectious, filling the court with a buzz of eagerness. Although the team warms up outside, in the chilly winter air, the excitement warms the team up. "Having energy on the court makes me play better” says Mandana Mojaverian (‘26). With the readiness for improvement coursing through the girl's veins, there's no secret this season will be a great one.
Girls’ basketball has come with a unique surprise this winter season
Dessie Koehn, Staff Writer | December 20, 2024
On October 29th, after an intense game, Webb varsity water polo players participated in the customary post-game high five with the opposing team, Pioneer High School. This game marked the beginning of CIF and ended with a promising score of 13-4. “Coming in as the underdogs brings a thrill of uncertainty to the playoffs and knowing we're playing our best is encouraging,” Neil Xu (‘27) said. As the team steadily progresses through CIF, their advancement raises the question: how did the team get here despite not participating in any league games?
Varsity water polo strives for CIF victory
Gianna Darden, Editor of News | November 14, 2024
Varsity girls' tennis had their senior night match last week. Claudia Yang (‘25), Jasmine Beseth (2’5), Saira Bhagat (‘25), Penelope Sugihara (‘25), and Lindsey Azurin (‘25) can be seen posing with their fellow seniors. The Gauls overall performed well and won against Pacifica Christian.
Girls’ tennis dominates their senior night
Sohum Uppal, Editor of Sports | November 11, 2024
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Science & Technology
Webb Students and faculty gathered in the newly completed innovation lab to listen to a lecture on Dire wolves given by faculty member Mairin Balisi. Sitting in chairs or on the floor, students and faculty learn about the truth of the de-extinction of dire wolves. “I was honestly really impressed at the information Dr. Balisi had to offer. The extinction of dire wolves being not completely true was a bummer,” said Saira Bhagat (‘25).
Webb students engage in a thought-provoking lecture held by Dr. Balisi.
Payton Delgado and Sohum Uppal | May 23, 2025
All members of the Webb Robotics Winter season teams taking a group photo. Of note is Team 359, pictured in the middle row. “It was super exciting to get the win and have the chance to go to regionals [robotics competition]” Max Lan (‘25) said. From left to right: Max Lan (‘25), Jerry Hu (‘26), David Lui (‘25), Jake Hui (’25), Boyang Li (‘25), bottom Jonathan Li (’25), Tyler Liu (‘25)
Webb robotics and You: a comprehensive overview on the members of Team 359!
Phillip Park | March 10, 2025
Webb students often use AI tools like ChatGPT to navigate questions they have about their classes, some students even having ChatGPT Pro subscriptions. “I think it becomes a habit that’s hard to break because ChatGPT is such a versatile and accessible tool to use for everything,” Triet Pham (‘26) said. However, headlines have been surfacing linking the detrimental environmental impact of AI, with some news sources even tying the recent California wildfires to AI’s resource use. This research has raised questions on whether investing in AI is worth it.
The dangers of AI: what do Webbies know?
Yuki Layman | February 10, 2025
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