To process the recent information, between 12am and 2am this morning I wrote this essay, so the misunderstandings are completely understandable, and I apologize for the communicative failings on my part. Allow me to clarify a few things: -This is only a petition because I wanted Naperville North students, whom I write for and represent, to sign off on what I was saying so that this is not a speculation. -I am not trying to blame the school and its teachers. I understand there are definitely parts where it sounds like that, and for that I apologize. Again, I regurgitated these feelings very late at night with very little proof reading. The "Naperville North Way" may be instigated by its namesake, but is perpetrated by the students and their parents. This culture shift needs to be equal parts parents, students, and staff. I merely speak for the students because I cannot speak for anyone else. -I am trying to change the culture at Naperville North . I am trying to explain to the administration what I think may be contributing to our school's epidemic. I am trying to convince students to be less judgmental towards those who choose a different path than they do. I am trying to change things here so that this never happens again. That's all I ever wanted to do. Thank you for your criticisms. Only through conversation can we learn, grow, and change for the better as a school. With love, Tessa Newman tbnewman@stu.naperville203.org