Like excessive homework and incredible sports teams, Walpole has had its share of traditions. One of the most notable and most recognized is each Friday’s Week in Review, a chance for Walpole High School principal Mr. Alan Bernstein to communicate directly with those he served: the students and staff of Walpole High. Mr. Bernstein, who started the broadcast and hosted it up until his exit earlier this month, would update students regarding the activities and athletic events at the school throughout the week. He would commend exemplary students and point out great accomplishments performed by various student groups. Like Tim Russert of NBC’s Meet the Press, he became a staple of television, at least in Walpole. Yet, just like MTP in the aftermath of Tim Russert’s death, the venerable Week in Review was left with no leader after Mr. Bernstein’s sudden departure to take on a new role at College Board.
According to rumors, Ed Connor, assistant principal, will be taking over the chair and continuing the storied legacy of the Friday WHS Week in Review. Mr. Connor is a legendary administrator, well-known around school for his sense of humor and fun attitude. He has appeared in amateur Hannah Montana music videos on the morning announcements, and already stars in a rendition of the Pledge of Allegiance on each Monday’s announcements. He has natural acting abilities, and is courted by film festival producers to appear in various film festival acting roles. He took on a fantastic role in last year’s film festival film Bye Bye Imbusch. His more candid and down-to-earth approach on camera contrasts directly with Mr. Bernstein’s more serious approach. If Mr. Connor indeed becomes the new anchor of the Week in Review, he will make it fun and interesting to listen to, and will present comedy relief when it is sorely needed in a morning news broadcast that has become mundane in recent years. Mr. Connor’s pleasing voice and laid-back attitude will serve to make the Week in Review a broadcast everyone wants to watch, not a broadcast everyone has to watch because it’s on during homeroom.
Mr. Bernstein has left behind an incredible television institution that deserves a host who understands the intricacies of a complex faculty, a large student body, and a tremendous number of activities and athletics. As the Walpole Rebellion Editorial Editor, I implore Mr. Connor to take over the Friday Week in Review. He is one of the few who is more than qualified (With Gabriel Bakale, Al Brown and Phil Balkus all possible candidates as well).
