Jericho is Mad about March Madness

By STEVEN ARONIS and ETHAN CHEUNG

From completed brackets to watching closely contested games, March Madness excitement fills the Jericho schools. Whether cheering for their favorite team or hoping for an underdog upset, March Madness brings the Jericho community together with the fun of competition and school spirit.

In a district as diverse as Jericho, there are bound to be varied opinions about what team will win it all. Assistant Principal Mr. Mevs said, “I’m a St. John’s fan.”

JV baseball coach Mr. Boyle also hopes St. John’s wins. He said, “This year can be different because St. John’s is playing well.”

Sophomore Suvir M. shared that he’s rooting for Auburn to win. Sports Journalism teacher Ms. D’Antonio is hoping for Duke to win. She said, “If Cooper Flagg can come back and get healthy, I think Duke has a chance.”

High School English teacher and coach Ms. D’Antonio had her Sports Journalism class fill out brackets for a fun and engaging March Madness activity.

Predicting the perfect bracket is a big part of March Madness for many people. Freshman Sotiri S. said, “I filled out one and I’m in a group with all of my friends.” 

Freshman Sotiri S. Is an an avid basketball fan and March Madness enthusiast.

 Freshman Deven M. fills out 30 brackets for the enjoyment of it. None of these is connected to a competition or a pool. He just enjoys the process.

Some teachers have very unique ideas about how to incorporate March Madness into their curriculum. Cantiague’s first-grade teacher Ms. Rouse makes a book bracket for Women’s History Month. She said, “Each day, students listen to a picture book about an influential woman in history.”

Cantiague’s first-grade teacher Ms. Rouse has her students participate in a reading activity modeled after the tournament bracket.

After the students are done reading, they vote on which book should move on to the next round. She said, “This activity encourages students to listen to stories about influential women and learn about their diverse experiences, struggles and triumphs.” 

Jericho teachers and students love watching the games and do so in some very creative ways. Whether it be a family party at home,  a gathering with friends or viewing in the cafeteria, everyone tries to catch all of the big moments.  

Junior Mathew W. said, “If it’s on a Friday or Saturday, I’ll watch it with my boys.” 

Sophomore Shibu T. said, “ I’m probably going to have a party.” 

Ms. D’Antonio catches some moments during her prep periods. She said, “At my desk, I have the game on.“

Guidance counselor Mr. Cotter would rather watch television and receive updates on his phone. He said, “At home, I’ll probably do a dual screen or pull out an iPad or computer and then watch TV.” 

For the Jericho community, March Madness isn’t only about basketball. It’s about having a good time and enjoying the company of friends, classmates and even a good book.

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