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
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Webb rankings decline: what happened?

Eric Luo and Sandy Li
February 20, 2025
Nicole Lee (‘25) frets over Webb’s change in the Niche Rankings. Since 2022, Webb has fallen from 25th best American boarding high school to 41st. “Of course, the school is more than rankings, but such an enormous drop is not a good sign,” said Nichole.
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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
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.
A game at a time, Steve Wishek writes his legacy with care
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
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.”
What I Wish I Knew
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
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
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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.
Poda uses inconsiderate marketing methods for new tube matcha
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.
Student Spotlight: Anna Park receives notable SCASA regional award
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.
Seniors struggle to complete practice hikes
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.
Last AP exams for students at Webb
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.
Two schools, one stage: Webb combines VWS and WSC commencement
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.
How the exclusivity of the music industry affects aspiring Webb artists
About the Contributors
Eric Luo
Eric Luo, Chief of Media
Eric Luo (‘25), a senior looking forward to graduating at the end of this year, brings a unique blend of passions to campus. As the leader of the Mycology club, Eric’s enthusiasm for nature shines through his hobby of growing mushrooms; a practice he enjoys for its sustainable benefits and culinary rewards, this passion for environmental preservation mirrors his dedication to upholding strong journalistic integrity. Eric spent this summer abroad reconnecting with old friends in China and Hong Kong; traveling to Japan, he enriched his palette and broadened his perspective. Adding on to his talents, Eric is also musically inclined, composing jazz and playing three instruments: saxophone, bassoon, and piano. Continuing his journalistic pursuit in his final year, Eric remains determined to produce impactful work for the Webb Canyon Chronicle. He also hopes to bring thought-provoking content surrounding politics, such as foreign policies, social issues, and other controversies that people may feel judged in talking about. This year, Eric looks forward to bringing forward a variety of opinions and voices in and out of the Webb community, giving everybody a platform to be heard.  Favorite song: Twilight by Bôa 
Sandy Li
Sandy Li, Staff Writer
Sandy Li (‘27) is an adrenaline junkie; you can always catch her trying out new things, whether that’s wrestling, new TV shows, or even now journalism. Expect the unexpected when it comes to Sandy. No one knew she was coming to Webb, not even herself. She spontaneously decided to join the Webb community and study abroad, coming all the way from Shenzhen, China to sunny California. Before joining Webb, Sandy was unsure of her passions and unable to find her true self. Now she branches out and does things for herself, not for others’ validation. She unexpectedly joined girls wrestling and took everyone by surprise with her amazing talents as a first year on the team, coming out on top as league champion by the end of the season. This year, Sandy is branching out once again; she is taking journalism and is here to stay. Her creative writing style is sure to bring a big bang into the publication, as writing is not just a hobby for her but a talent. In fact, outside of the classroom you can catch Sandy winning poetry contests, just another one of her spontaneous hobbies that became a honed talent.  Favorite Song: Burn (Hamilton Musical) by Phillipa Soo