The Chomp

The Student News Site of Gateway Regional High School

The Chomp

The Student News Site of Gateway Regional High School

The Chomp

The Student News Site of Gateway Regional High School

Laurel Rose Barrett

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief

I'm Laurel Barrett, and I am in my second year as the Editor-in-Chief of The Chomp! I am currently a junior, and my favorite subjects are English and Science. My hobbies are reading, writing, and creating artistic projects, like posters and models. I am a lawyer in Mock Trial, a President of Book Club, and I am an NJ-JCL Executive Board Officer. I'm also a member of Latin Club, NHS, World Language Honors Society, and Gateway's Mentor Program. Additionally, I am the social media manager of a NJ non-profit called P.U.R.E. Girls, Inc. and enjoy volunteering at Angels Community Outreach. I plan to become a patent lawyer in the future and practice somewhere in New England. I look forward to interviewing featured teachers, writing opinion pieces, and creating book reviews for The Chomp this year! If you want to join our team, feel free to email me @[email protected].

All content by Laurel Rose Barrett
The rainbow infinity symbol that has replaced the puzzle piece as the symbol of autism

A Difference, Not a Disorder: The Autism Spectrum

Inspiring stories of influential individuals who used their autism to change society for the better
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
April 13, 2024

It’s Autism Awareness Month! Autism means different things for different people. As we know, the autism spectrum is vast, and not every person diagnosed is the same. Those who are high-functioning autistic...

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The cast of Seussical bowing to the crowd at the end of the show

Seussical the Musical: Review

What an incredible show by Gateway's finest actors, vocalists, and musicians!
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-chief
April 13, 2024

At the end of March, the Gateway theater program debuted its spring musical, Seussical! The entire cast and crew worked tirelessly since January learning their lines, songs, dances, and making the final...

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This is a beautiful depiction of what our Earth is capable of producing. Greenery of the Boston Commons.

[Photo] Ways to Get Involved This Earth Day

Jack Keller, Senior Sports Editor
April 13, 2024

This is a beautiful depiction of what our Earth is capable of producing. Greenery of the Boston Commons.

A beautiful tulip field at Johnsons Farm. Tulips are a beautiful flower that spring offers!

[Photo] Gateway’s Annual Bundle Up Against Cancer 5k Event

Kalise Miller, Managing Editor
April 13, 2024

A beautiful tulip field at Johnson's Farm. Tulips are a beautiful flower that spring offers!

Guest speakers Jill Weber and Cassandra Burnett

Celebrating International Women’s Day at Gateway!

Another successful women's empowerment event
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
March 10, 2024

On International Women's Day on March 8th, Gateway held its annual Women's Empowerment Day headed by Gateway 2 Careers Director, Mrs. Eckstein! Every year she puts together a celebratory event where influential...

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GRHS Gallery showcasing gym uniforms from the 1970s.

[Photo] In Defense of Denim: The Case for Jeans in PE Class

GRHS Gallery showcasing gym uniforms from the 1970s.

Eddie stands proudly with one of his favorite pieces, Scary Clown

Recognizing Eddie Rolax

Retiring Custodian, Inspiring Artist
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
February 26, 2024

A lot can happen when you work the same job for twenty years: friendships formed, changes good and bad, hellos and goodbyes. Nobody knows this better than Eddie Rolax, one of Gateway’s most hard-working...

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The Broadcasting table at the electives fair. I cant wait to go this route, says Spencer Barrett, grade 8.

[Photo] Highlights from the Electives Fair

Spencer Barrett, Staff Writer
February 11, 2024

True Crime & Detective Stories! I hear Mrs. Reichman is obsessed with this stuff. I can't wait to be able to fit this in my schedule! I love passionate teachers. They make life interesting!

TJ Edmund, former Gator going into his last year of college at Rowan University, speaks to the new Intro. to Journalism class at Gateway about the ups and downs in his academic career as a journalist and what he has learned that students can benefit from.

Guest Motivational Speaker Visits New Journalism Class

TJ Edmund motivates new writers through his message of perseverance
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
February 11, 2024

Earlier in January, TJ Edmund, Gateway alum and current journalism student from Rowan University, came to speak to Mrs. Barrett’s journalism class! He enlightened journalism students with tips, past...

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Spencer and Laurel Barrett nervous to embark on their shared AP World History journey

AP World History: Payne Expands Gateway Student Horizons

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
February 11, 2024

Spencer and Laurel Barrett nervous to embark on their shared AP World History journey

Charleigh Morrison poses with friends at the Wenonah train station before Homecoming 2023

Featured Gator: Charleigh Morrison

This choice student is making great choices
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
February 11, 2024

In case you haven’t noticed, this month’s theme at The Chomp is motivation. Our February Featured Gator highlights a student who is demonstrating intense ambition, grit, and will-power, junior Charleigh...

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An Honors/AP project collage created by Editor-in-Chief, Laurel Barrett

[Photo] Honors vs. AP at Gateway

Kalise Miller, Managing Editor
February 11, 2024

An Honors/AP project collage created by Editor-in-Chief, Laurel Barrett

Lack of motivation and exhaustion affects everyone, even the Editor-in-Chief. Even AP students. Cold, dark winter nights after long school days can take their toll.

Lacking Motivation – A Problem Countless Students Share

A Middle School and High School Collaboration
Ace Smith and Laurel Rose Barrett
February 11, 2024

Something that almost all students share in today's society is a lack of motivation coupled with an addiction to procrastination. Maybe there's a game you’d want to play over completing an essay, or...

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AI image created by Magic Media on Canva

[Photo] The Myth of Cupid

Hazel Foster, Staff Writer
February 11, 2024

AI image created by Magic Media on Canva

The new literary magazine cover of Gateway Regional High School voted in via SNO poll ending on 1/5/24.

Call for Submissions!

Gators Have Chosen the New Literary Magazine Title
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
February 7, 2024

Students, faculty, and staff may begin submitting original poetry, essays, short stories, photography, artwork, and any other creative pursuits to be published this spring in issue 1 of Gateway's new literary...

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Fantasy Football design generated using Magic Media AI app via Canva

[Photo] Fantasy Football Recap

Desmond McCue, Staff Writer
January 7, 2024

Fantasy Football design generated using Magic Media AI app via Canva

A photo Laurel took from the audience of Ann and Eric in deep conversation.

Meeting a Literary Hero

Who is your favorite author?
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
January 7, 2024

This December I had the incredible opportunity to meet one of my literary heroes, Ann Patchett--the author of some of my favorite essays, best-selling novels, and a beautiful memoir! On a road trip...

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Diversity Club and The Chomp share a variety of foods and learn about a variety of winter holidays together.

Diversity Club and The Chomp Celebrate the Holidays Together!

Multicultural Holiday Party
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
January 7, 2024

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and hopefully a refreshing break from work and school! Before the holiday break, The Chomp staff attended the Diversity Club's Multicultural Holiday Party!...

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Mrs. Norton alongside Mrs. DeGeorge, Mr. Raba, and Dr. Pierro celebrating her wonderful accomplishment

Celebrating Mrs. Norton, Gateway’s Professional of the Year

A well-deserved honor
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
December 10, 2023

Just a few weeks ago Gateway named its 2023 Professional of the Year, Mrs. Norton. She is very grateful for the honor and was thrilled to participate in an interview highlighting her amazing career at...

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Two soldiers of the Roman age dueling it out in an open field, created by Magic Media in Canva

The Ills or Merits of Online Latin:

A Debate
Laurel Rose Barrett and Alex Noble
December 10, 2023

Staff writer, Alex Noble, and Editor-in-Chief, Laurel Barrett, debate the ills and merits of the online Latin program, Educere, that students are using until Mrs. Cross returns. Alex writes about student...

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From Left to Right: Lily Hoppe, Spencer Barrett, Kayla Clancy, Will Gentry, Shai Wallace, and Jack Patrick

Gateway’s Fall Musical: Elf!

A fantastic, family-friendly show
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
December 10, 2023

On Saturday, December 9th, the cast of Gateway's: Elf the Musical concluded their final showing! To call the performances fantastic would be an understatement. Despite the graduation of numerous senior...

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Barrett’s Bookshelf: This is the Story of a Happy Marriage

December book review
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
December 10, 2023

This past summer, I spotted a copy of This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett in the Brookline Bookshop in Brookline, Massachusetts, and I had to grab it! I’ll admit I was perplexed at...

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Diversity Clubs poster that represents diversity, partnership, dialogue, and acceptance.

Diversity Club is Making a Difference

November's Group of Featured Gators!
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
November 4, 2023

Ms. Waring, one of Gateway’s amazing Spanish teachers, saw a need for an open forum at Gateway for all questions and discussions regarding race, identity, and diversity, so she created Diversity Club!  Prior...

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Mr. Joyce feeling confident, strong, and ready to grow in his practice. Inspiring others to do the same is his goal.

The Impact of Martial Arts

Guest Writer: Mr. Joyce
Michael Joyce and Laurel Rose Barrett
November 4, 2023

The Chomp is excited to celebrate Mr. Joyce and his accomplishment, and we all hope it inspires you to take care of yourself, stay motivated, and set goals! _  _  _  _  _  _  _  _ Have you ever...

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We knew Mrs. Thomas could sing, but her moves caused crowd mayhem!!!

[Photo] Hoco Pep Rally Hype

Kalise Miller, Managing Editor
October 13, 2023

Mr. D!

Ms. Morda and Ms. Powell twinning perfectly!

Stunt Double Day

Ms. Morda and Ms. Powell twinning perfectly!

Mrs. Reichman, Amelia, Leah, and Layla celebrate the success of Eco Club!

Eco Club Hosts Their Debut Meeting

One of Gateway's Brand-new Clubs
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
October 1, 2023

Earlier this month at Gateway, the new Eco Club had their debut meeting in Mrs. Reichman's room, 404, attracting new hoards of environment-conscious changemakers! Presidents and Co-founders Amelia Long,...

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Mr. Coble ready to teach students about business and entrepreneurship!

Gateway’s Brilliant New Business Teacher, Mr. Coble!

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-in-Chief
October 1, 2023

Mr. Coble, one of Gateway’s ten new hires this school year, has already made a fantastic impression on students and staff alike! He is cheerful, passionate about teaching, and has already proven himself...

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Andy at his desk! He is ready to put students at easy by sharing his winning smile and chocolate treats!

Interview With Andy-the-Alligator, Gateway Guidance Office’s Unofficial Mascot

Gateway's Favorite Gator
Spencer Barrett and Laurel Rose Barrett
October 1, 2023

The unofficial Gateway guidance mascot, Andy-the-Alligator, has touched the hearts of many in the Gateway community. He can often be seen at pep rallies, field trips, sports games, and other Gateway events...

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Ghosting and Bailing - A Generational Trend

Ghosting and Bailing – A Generational Trend

Op-Ed: Ghosting Isn't Just For Halloween
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
October 1, 2023

It's everyone for themselves, even on the road. It has become unfortunately evident that it is nearly impossible to completely trust anyone these days. Now that my friends and I are on the road, we have...

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Introducing Gateway’s Brand New Library

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 30, 2023

It is back and better than ever! Gateway’s library had a MASSIVE makeover this summer! With new ceilings, carpets, and a total rearrangement of shelves and furniture, it is almost unrecognizable! Mrs....

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High School Book Club; devoted members encouraging student interest

Gateway’s Annual Club Fair Impresses Once Again

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 30, 2023

Besides focusing on academics, most students require an outlet at their school where they can hone in on their interests and passions and just have fun. From Spanish, French, and Sign Language clubs to...

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The 45th season of Survivor is streaming now! Original Canva created by Laurel Barrett

[Photo] The Landmark 45th Season of Survivor

Jack Keller, Senior Sports Editor
October 1, 2023

The 45th season of Survivor is streaming now! Original Canva created by Laurel Barrett

Original Canva Creation (Laurel Rose Barrett): Learn why sleep is more important than ever in todays society.

[Photo] Prioritizing Sleep

Kaylee Glass, Staff Writer
October 1, 2023

Original Canva Creation (Laurel Rose Barrett): Learn why sleep is more important than ever in today's society.

Fall is the best time for fun, outdoor activities!

[Photo] Upcoming Fall Festivies

Hazel Foster, Staff Writer
October 1, 2023

Fall is the best time for fun, outdoor activities!

Mrs. Reichmans True Crime class tunes in to a captivating documentary

[Photo] True Crime & Detective Stories

Cassidy Hagmaier and McKenna Spositi
October 1, 2023

Mrs. Reichman's True Crime class tunes in to a captivating documentary

Original Canva created by Laurel Barrett; UAP Data Collection - One of NASAS Latest Projects

[Photo] Nasa’s Scientific Approach to the Mystery of UFOs

Abria Joshua, Staff Writer
October 1, 2023

Original Canva created by Laurel Barrett; UAP Data Collection - One of NASA'S Latest Projects

Organization and planning are essential to having a successful school year!

How to Make the Most Out of a School Year

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

Organization and planning are essential to having a successful school year!

Chicago Review of Books, These Precious Days by Ann Patchett

Barrett’s Bookshelf

These Precious Days By Ann Patchett
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

Ann Patchett, known primarily for her essays and novels, released her essay collection, These Precious Days, during the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2021. Featuring essays from magazines like Harper's Magazine and The...

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Brian Tortella (Gateway Athletics)

Gateway Football

Beginning-of-Year Update
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

The Gateway Football team has started the season off incredibly strong! Under their brand new coach, Andrew Daley, new to Gateway from Cherry Hill East, the Gators won their first game against Haddon Township...

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Canva created by Allison and Melissa Eckstein after interviewing current and former students of Gateway Regional High School; Photo taken by GRHS librarian, Kathleen Bially.

In Memory of Jamie O’Neill

Current Gateway Students and Alumni Share Memories of Beloved Art Teacher

Last week, the Gateway community lost a beloved Art teacher, Ms. Jamie O'Neill. Gateway to Careers' Melissa Eckstein enlisted the help of both former and current students to collect tributes to her legacy....

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Gators Return to The Swamp!

Gators Return to The Swamp!

1st Day of School
Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

On Thursday, September 7th, The Gateway Gators celebrated their first day of school! Teachers eagerly waited by their classroom doors as the students--sleepy, yet excited--walked through the halls to their...

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The Main Harvard Dining Hall that I Only Previously Saw in Movies

What I Learned at Drew & Harvard This Summer

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

The Main Harvard Dining Hall that I Only Previously Saw in Movies

Meet Gateways New Staff Members!

Meet Gateway’s New Staff Members!

Laurel Rose Barrett, Editor-In-Chief
September 9, 2023

Gateway has hired ten new staff members for the 2023-2024 academic year! They have attended trainings, decorated their rooms, and welcomed their new students this past week! Gateway is so thrilled to...

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Laurel Rose Barrett