The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
Emma Ippolito

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor

A desire for impact, a want for change and a hope for a better world…

All content by Emma Ippolito
On the cloudy day of May 19, 2023, students waited with anticipation for the annual Air Guitar show. Featuring various creative acts, ranging from singing and playing instruments to complicated dance numbers, it was a fun filled day for everyone. In the image, Dan Baker, dressed in an outfit inspired by Harry Styles and his son Miles Baker '23 showed their love for the artist through their performance of “Adore You” by Harry Styles. Taking the lead, Dan Baker sang and played piano while Miles Baker played bass and sang backup.

Dragons celebrate Air Guitar 2023 like “diamonds in the sky”

Caroline Hubner and Emma Ippolito
May 23, 2023
Ballet, an art most recognized for the beauty and poise of its dancers. These athletes dedicate themselves to visual storytelling, with complex music and costumes. Beneath the beautiful exterior lies a complex history, one of dedication and intensity.

A deeper look at the athletic art: Ballet

Emma Ippolito, Writer
May 15, 2023
As teen opioid overdose cases continue to rise in the United States, Narcan (Naloxone HCI) is a way to potentially save lives. An easily operated nasal spray, Naloxone is able to fight with the effects of opioids in the brain. As the push for Narcan availability increases in California, it brings into question whether Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) has it and even the Ventura Unified School District (Ventura Unified).

Fentanyl Awareness Day: With rising teen opioid overdoses, is Narcan accessible at Foothill Tech?

Emma Ippolito, Writer
May 9, 2023
The temperature is rising and the sun is shining as it emerges from behind the clouds and spring flowers begin to blossom on Foothill Tech’s campus, bringing a pop of color to the budding season.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 13

Jenna Ostrom, Videographer
April 14, 2023
With the Willow Project harming the environment, there are other ways we can save our Earth. By following these easy steps, individuals can have a real impact on our climate and well being.

Alaska’s Willow Project: How much of the Earth’s health are we willing to sacrifice to boost the economy?

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor
March 26, 2023
Rain falls furiously onto the walkway in the middle of Foothill Tech’s campus, and its ambiance is the soundtrack of this episode of FDP-TV.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 12

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
March 24, 2023
With Saint Patrick’s Day rounding the corner, Associated Student Body (ASB) has a plethora of events in store for students. A spirit week from March 13, 2023 through 17, 2023 with fun themes and a Ren Rally that Friday, on Saint Patrick’s Day, will celebrate students who received academic renaissance the previous quarter.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 11

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
March 10, 2023
Newly elected Associated Student Body president Rhea Gill '25 is ready to lead Foothill Technology High School students in the 2023-2024 school year.

ASB President-elect Rhea Gill gives inauguration speech on her presidency and excitement for the 2023-24 school year

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
March 8, 2023
The 10th episode of the FDP-TV features the Editors-In-Chief of the Foothill Dragon Press, Caroline Hubner and Jonah Billings, as special guest hosts. This episode is a huge milestone and we wanted to thank our viewers for your continued support.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 10

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
February 17, 2023
When comparing the two schedules of Foothill Tech and Ventura High, some inequities have been highlighted and present an issue with Foothill Tech's scheduling policy.

“It’s time for a change”: Foothill Tech teachers push for a “teach 5 model” schedule for the 2023-24 school year

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor
February 13, 2023
On the night of of Feb. 8, 2023, the girls' soccer team faced off against Filmore High School for the first round of CIF games. Lily Shadden '23 (number 17) fights to keep the soccer ball in bounds while her defender closes in. After receiving the pass, Shadden dribbles the ball down the field making a crucial offensive play, hoping to score a goal for the Dragons in the first half.

Girls’ soccer manages to overpower Fillmore in first round of CIF playoffs in a close 2-1 game

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor
February 10, 2023
In light of recent structural changes, students share their thoughts on what Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) means to them.

Voice of the Dragon: What does Foothill Tech mean to you?

Kimberly Fickerson and Emma Ippolito
February 7, 2023
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, love is in the air at Foothill Technology High School as students breathe a sigh of relief after finishing final exams in late January.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 9

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
February 3, 2023
As Foothill Tech prepares for finals, students can take a much needed study break and check out recent articles ranging from coverage of the program faire to TV and movie reviews to recent winter sport re-caps.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 8

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
January 20, 2023
The video section of the Foothill Dragon Press reunite once again with friends to discuss all things sweet. From candy to cake, opinions are shared and debates are heated in this episode of video and friends.

Video and Friends Podcast: Dessert edition

Ella Nicolle, Emma Ippolito, Jenna Ostrom, Malia Sanchez, and Cole Dinkler
January 16, 2023
Back from winter break, Foothill Tech is buzzing with life as classes resume and students prepare for their upcoming finals.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 7

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
January 6, 2023
Back with the 6th episode of FDP-TV, students talk excitedly about their winter break plans as Foothill Tech’s winter week celebrations commence.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 6

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
December 9, 2022
The fifth episode of FDP-TV covers topics ranging from Winter Formal dance tickets, sports updates and recent album reviews on The Foothill Dragon Press.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 5

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
November 11, 2022
The video section, a prominent group within The Foothill Dragon Press, joins together with some friends to discuss all things sports in the first episode of this new podcast series.

Video and Friends Podcast: Sports edition

Cole Dinkler, Ella Nicolle, Jenna Ostrom, Sofia Patiño, Malia Sanchez, and Emma Ippolito
November 10, 2022
As quarter one draws to a close and fall break is just around the corner, students excitedly prepare Halloween costumes for the Renaissance Rally and All Hallows’ Eve dance on Oct. 14.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 4

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
October 14, 2022
FDP-TVs third rendition reminds the Foothill community of important events coming up and recommends past articles to check out on The Foothill Dragon Press website.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 3

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
September 29, 2022
In light of recent events, FDP-TV is back for its second episode, featuring the school board meeting on Sept. 13, 2022, a sports re-cap and other new articles on The Foothill Dragon Press.

[Video] FDP-TV: Episode 2

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
September 16, 2022
Nathan Buehner '23 returns to his seat among loud cheering and the waving of posters in support.

Ventura Unified School Board meeting met with substantial student and teacher advocacy

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor
September 15, 2022
Students enjoy a relaxing lunch among the chaos of schedule changes and confusion for both students and teachers.

Removal of special program coordinating periods results in massive scheduling changes

Emma Ippolito, Assignment Editor
September 6, 2022
Tune in to FDP-TV every other Friday for all things Foothill Tech!

[Video] Welcome back: FDP-TV’s first broadcast

Kimberly Fickerson, Multimedia Editor
September 2, 2022
Dragons come together to celebrate the first day of school.

Ready to take flight: Foothill Tech students soar onto campus for the first day of school

Emma Ippolito, Ailanie Martinez, Ella Asher, and Maggie Lay
August 26, 2022
Aiden Hagerty '22 displays arm wrestling techniques against math teacher Wayne Powers.

Words of wisdom: the annual Senior Dragon Talks impress all

Emma Ippolito, Ailanie Martinez, and Melanie Hernandez
June 10, 2022
An experienced interviewer helps students gain confidence and poise with mock job interviews.

Preparing for the future: Economics class Seniors experience mock job interviews

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
June 1, 2022
Foothill Tech juniors Kylie Rodriguez and Anna Nelles show off their favorite sports teams on Jersey vs. Jersey Shore day.

Battle of the outfits: Air Guitar spirit week brightens the mood of Foothill Tech Dragons

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
May 23, 2022
On a Monday morning, Jasmine Smith '22 participates in the Vitalant blood drive held at Foothill Tech.

HOSA partnership with Vitalant saves up to 168 lives at biannual blood drive

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
March 18, 2022
Charys Pyle '23 wears her mask in the DTech pod as mask mandates continue to be enforced in VUSD Schools.

Back to normality; masks no longer required for students and faculty

Emma Ippolito and Melanie Hernandez
March 14, 2022
Students elected for this years Kindness Court stand on the stage in the quad, smiling at their friends and classmates who chose them for their glowing kindness. They get satisfaction in knowing that their kindness has not gone unnoticed by their fellow dragons.

The legacy of Erica Conchas lives on with the Kindness Court

Emma Ippolito and Melanie Hernandez
March 9, 2022
With a new sports facility, Foothill Tech sports teams like water polo can have their own place to practice, play and represent their school.

Petition for new athletic facility opens up possibilities for the next generation of Dragons

Caroline Hubner, Emma Ippolito, Melanie Hernandez, and Ailanie Martinez
March 2, 2022
Foothill Tech students enjoy their lunches and a mask break on a bright, beautiful spring day.

Declining numbers in Ventura Unified causes an early sign up for classes in the 2022-23 school year

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
February 24, 2022
Sean Scampone '23 dribbles the ball past his opponents towards the goal.

Boys’ soccer begins season with a bang

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
January 18, 2022
Students stay cozy during the day and get into the holiday spirit by giving out candy cane grams.

The Holidays come alive at the Foothill Tech winter fest

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
December 22, 2021
The sun glints off the Ventura County Fire Department truck as BioScience students learn about the various tools firefighters use in an emergency.

BioScience students get a special visit from the Ventura County Fire Department

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
December 12, 2021
Kiersten Falat '23 holds up her "awesome blood donor" shirt after donating blood.

Foothill Tech students save lives at annual blood drive

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
November 17, 2021
The BioScience program celebrates another year of successful Olympics.

Cohort 16 prevails at the annual BioScience Olympics

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
November 8, 2021
Following the difficulties of trying to volunteer amidst a global pandemic, Foothill Technology High School has made a decision to cut its mandatory community service requirement.

Foothill Tech lifts community service requirements

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
October 23, 2021
Parents rally with posters and chants in Huntington Beach to protest the public school vaccine mandate.

COVID-19 vaccine protestors take to the streets following the new California student vaccine mandate

Caroline Hubner and Emma Ippolito
October 22, 2021
Ryan Webb ’23 winds up to score a goal.

Varsity boys’ water polo team dominates Cate 19-4

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
October 9, 2021
Freshmen search for their names on the Mickey Mouse hands.

The magic never ends, Foothill Tech’s Start Strong Rally kicks off the year for class of 2025

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
September 28, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccination mandates could potentially be under way for districts surrounding Los Angeles Unified School District.

LA Unified public schools mandate COVID-19 vaccine for students

Emma Ippolito and Emilie Huovinen
September 23, 2021
Due to the increasing popularity of online shopping, the Walt Disney Co. has made the decision to shut down multiple stores across North America in order to put a more extensive focus on its e-commerce business.

The magic ends, Disney stores closing across North America

Emma Ippolito, Writer
September 14, 2021
Students make their way to class on their first day of school.

The Happiest School on Earth: Dragons return to campus for the 2021-2022 school year

Caroline Hubner, Emma Ippolito, Melanie Hernandez, and Ailanie Martinez
August 28, 2021
Foothill Tech students eat lunch in the quad hoping for a more normal school year next year.

A brighter Summer: Ventura County moves down to the yellow COVID-19 tier

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
June 26, 2021
As the temperature rises across the coast and inland, fires become a summer potential like, the Casitas Fire.

Casitas Fire burns 188 acres in Ojai Valley near Lake Casitas

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
June 24, 2021
There are many misconceptions that people possess about the new COVID-19 vaccines that need to be debunked in order for individuals to truly understand the purpose and safety behind the vaccines.

Let’s debunk those common COVID-19 vaccine myths

Emma Ippolito, Writer
May 29, 2021
Many know about greenhouse gases and the negative effect that they are having on the environment, and it is a common belief that the only way to end their effect is by having world leaders deal with it, but there are many things that normal people can do in order to help the Earth.

Eight things you can do to help the environment

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
April 26, 2021
Juniors at Foothill Tech get excited for the opportunity to leave campus during lunch.

Finally free, upperclassmen are now able to leave campus during lunch

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
April 26, 2021
The College Board is bringing about a shift in the world of the SAT-takers by eliminating the optional essay in order to decrease the stress of all college-bound students, which is consequently adjusting how certain universities weigh applicant's SAT scores in their admission's decision, or whether they are even considered at all.

SAT update: Big changes happening to the standardized test

Caroline Hubner and Emma Ippolito
April 22, 2021
Foothill Tech students celebrate returning to in-person classes in the quad.

Foothill Tech is back in session for the spring quarter of the 2020-2021 school year

Caroline Hubner, Emma Ippolito, Nicole Stidham, and Ethan Sequeira
April 19, 2021
The Instagram post from @fthsasb, with details on how to participate in ASB elections.

ASB elections for the 2021-22 school year

Nicole Stidham, Caroline Hubner, Emma Ippolito, and Ethan Sequeira
March 10, 2021
A small pod of students in Foothill Tech's DTech program on campus.

Ventura creeps towards the shutdown’s one year anniversary and is accompanied by declining infection rates

Caroline Hubner and Emma Ippolito
March 9, 2021
Foothill Tech has made a recent adjustment to the class schedule by decreasing each period by five minutes in order to make a statement about the current course of action in regards to teachers' contracts and the number of periods that they are to teach.

Zoom schedule altered, class periods changed to 55 minutes

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
January 31, 2021
Foothill Tech students Riley Schnieder '22 and Angelina Gray Reyes '22 are rewarded for donating blood at Vitalant blood drive.

Foothill Tech students have the potential to save lives at annual blood drive

Olivia Zoll and Emma Ippolito
January 17, 2021
Foothill Tech students and teachers have been learning online for months, however plans to reopen safely are underway. Discover the latest on in-person education at Foothill Tech from writer Emma Ippolito.

Foothill Tech plan for small group integration

Emma Ippolito, Writer
January 7, 2021
Brightening up Ventura's Christmas, Holiday drive-thru 'lights up' the Fairgounds

Brightening up Ventura’s Christmas, Holiday drive-thru ‘lights up’ the Fairgounds

Emma Ippolito, Writer
December 22, 2020
Many falsehoods have seemingly developed over the duration of COVID-19's existence, all of which need to be debunked in order to truly understand what this virus is and what you can do to protect yourself and others from it.

Let’s debunk those COVID-19 myths

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
November 19, 2020
Students explore the 2019 Club Rush, an event like those students can look forward to as Foothill Tech considers opening up for modified in-person classes.

Updates on the potential reopening of Ventura Unified Schools

Emma Ippolito, Reporter
November 7, 2020
As we begin to see a decline in COVID-19 cases, Ventura Unified is evaluating whether it is in the best interest of students, staff and families to open up schools. However, there will be extreme precautions taken among the staff members to ensure our safety.

Ventura Unified Schools’ plans for potential reopening amid COVID-19 pandemic

Caroline Hubner and Emma Ippolito
October 13, 2020
The 2020-2021 ASB sophomore class president and vice-president elections are taking place on Sept. 21 at 8 a.m.

What you should know about the sophomore ASB elections

Emma Ippolito and Ethan Sequeira
September 20, 2020
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Emma Ippolito