2021 SCO year in review

As 2022 begins, people look ahead to the new year with anticipation. Yet the beginning of a new year is also a chance to reflect on the past year, with all its breakthroughs and upheavals. 

From attending class through Zoom from home (sometimes still in pajamas) to in-person school, from the race to develop and approve the COVID-19 vaccine to dealing with various variants, the year has been nothing but a long ride. Through all of these ups and downs, SCO was there to cover it, including serious news topics and fun blogs. 2021 even brought about a new baking show. 

Here are some particularly memorable topics SCO covered this year, presented in chronological order:

January: "Insurrection at the Capitol"

The January 6 Capitol attack highlighted the magnitude of the political division within the country. 

February: "MCPS set to return to in-person learning March 1"

Nearly a year after the emergency closure at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, MCPS began welcoming students back into schools. Six months later, everyone began in-person education.

February: "Blair students demonstrate resilience"

"Oh, Blazers, you will always win" is a line from the school song (as presented in the student handbook). This past year, despite school closures, interrupted learning, and an ongoing pandemic, Blazers have persevered to reach great heights. 

April: "Gallery: March for Justice: 5 yr Old Assaulted by MoCo Police"

The right to peaceful protests is part of the First Amendment, and local community members were not afraid to use it. 

May: "The environmental impact of COVID-19 rests on our shoulders"

As the generation at the forefront of climate change efforts, the pandemic may provide the opportunity to make a lasting positive impact on environmentalism. 

June: "Sour is a sweet treat for fans"

When Olivia Rodrigo's "Driver's License" came out, it broke records, then broke its own records. Months later, the young star released her first album Sour, which was met with great appeal from fans worldwide.

June: "The Covid Vaccine- An Overview"

Beginning towards the end of the 2020-2021 school year, the COVID-19 vaccine was approved and mass administration of the vaccine began. SCO's video staff provides an informative overview and answers common questions about the vaccine. 

2021 SCO year in review

Photo: 2021 was a year with lots of action.

2021 was a year with lots of action. Photo courtesy of Jonas Laufer.

After summer break, which meant a break from school and SCO content, all Blazers returned to in-person learning. They were welcomed back with mask mandates, air purifiers, ginormous tubs of hand sanitizer in each classroom, and 18 portables. 

October: "Padding slowly toward eliminating period stigma"

With the help of donations from the community and push for new legislation, Blair now provides free pads in every bathroom. 

October: "Devious Licks - The TikTok trend detrimental to the school community"

When students participated in the Devious Licks trend to gain traction on TikTok, they certainly didn't foresee the consequences of their actions on themselves and the school.

November: "Blair makes history at home playoff game vs. Spartans"

With stands packed with fans, Blair football certainly didn't disappoint as it won its first ever home playoff game. After a virtual season last year, the team came back stronger than ever.

November: "The Sweet SCOop: Pumpkin Bread Pops"

Avid baker and staff writer Celine Wu started SCO's first baking show in collaboration with the video staff. Held every few weeks, the show has been a huge success! Blazers have the opportunity to sample and review delicious baked goods on the Sweet Scoop. It's never too late to start something new, so don't be afraid to take whisks!

November: "Highlights and lowlights of the 2021 Montgomery County Thanksgiving parade"

After a year off due to the pandemic, community members of all ages came out to enjoy the Montgomery County Thanksgiving parade this year. From local political figures to college cheerleaders, emission-free parade floats to acrobatics, the parade certainly had something for everyone to enjoy.

December: "Financial Literacy graduation requirement may be added"

After decades of debate, MCPS Board of Education is one step closer to implementing financial literacy as a graduation requirement. With support from both students and teachers, the class that teaches important life skills will finally be offered to all county students soon.

And that's a wrap! This article presents just a small portion of the amazing content SCO has produced this year. Happy new year and join us again this year for more great stories! Thank you to all our readers, and we hope to always have your support.