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The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News

The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News

The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News

Inaaya Omer

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor

Inaaya Omer is a senior at Carlmont High School and has worked on ScotScoop, Scotcenter, and Highlander as a staff writer, podcast producer, and managing editor. She enjoys being part of the program because of the valuable experiences and interactions with the community. She also attended the School of New York Times to improve her editing skills. Outside of journalism, she plays for Carlmont’s Varsity Basketball Team and is involved in events and activities to show her school spirit.

Twitter: @inaayaomer

 

All content by Inaaya Omer

Beyond the Surface Ep. 5: Bonds beyond borders

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor May 28, 2024

Welcome to Beyond the Surface, hosted by Inaaya Omer. During the course of this series, she’ll be joined by a new guest in each episode to talk about their experiences and their perspective on being...

Voices of the people: Teen views on Israel-Hamas conflict

Inaaya Omer, Jasneh Sasan, and Nicholas Lee December 23, 2023

After the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel, Israelis and Palestinians alike are mourning casualties in the complex, nuanced conflict. The repercussions of this regional war have resonated globally, triggering...

Gabi Asmar sings "Santa Fe" from Newsies by Alan Menken. "It was super exhilarating. I've done Cabaret for 3 years, and it never gets old," Asmar said. "It was amazing to have all of the hard work that I put into Santa Fe pay off when I heard the audience cheering."

Gabi Asmar sings "Santa Fe" from Newsies by Alan Menken. "It was super exhilarating. I've done Cabaret for 3 years, and it never gets old," Asmar said. "It was amazing to have all of the hard work that...

Haley Jane Brown sings her original song, "Love Bomber," taking advantage of the creative liberties offered through the Choir Cabaret. Despite writing songs since she was three, Brown only recently started showcasing her original music in public. "To my surprise, I received waves of support from the audience and I got producers that reached out and wanted to work with me," Brown said. "I was exploring and showcasing a side of myself that was completely outside of what I was used to and what everybody else who knew me was used to. But if there’s anything I’ve learned from last year it’s that stepping outside of my comfort zone usually leads to the things that I’m most proud of."

Haley Jane Brown sings her original song, "Love Bomber," taking advantage of the creative liberties offered through the Choir Cabaret. Despite writing songs since she was three, Brown only recently started...

Kimberly Garcia Cancio performs a solo, singing "Veracruz" by Natalia LaFourcade. "We all had a very fun time putting on this show knowing that many of our performances held such a close significance," Garcia Cancio said. "I know for myself sharing a part of my culture with my performance at this show was insanely special to me and a wonderful experience."

Kimberly Garcia Cancio performs a solo, singing "Veracruz" by Natalia LaFourcade. "We all had a very fun time putting on this show knowing that many of our performances held such a close significance,"...

Senior running back Braeden Kumer takes off his helmet and mouth guard after scoring the second touchdown for the Scots in the first quarter. The Scots take the lead with a score of 15-14.

In Photos: Scots emerge victorious in Pink Out game

Inaaya Omer and Sophia Schreiber October 29, 2023

The Carlmont Scots bounced back after a tough loss on the road last Friday, winning by a score of 43-33 against the Fremont Firebirds on Oct. 27. The theme of the night was “Pink Out,” supporting...

Junior Brian Sagon protects junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli from Firebirds cornerback Jadon Smith. With his teammate's help, Mattioli was able to gain yards for the Scots. The Scots were able to score another touchdown and maintain their lead after this play.

Junior Brian Sagon protects junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli from Firebirds cornerback Jadon Smith. With his teammate's help, Mattioli was able to gain yards for the Scots. The Scots were able to score...

A Carlmont junior attempts to complete a pull-up challenge for the Calisthenics Club. "We started this club in order to help people in our community become stronger and become a better version of themselves," said Daichi Holland, president of the club. Their goal is to help people improve their mental health by also improving their physical health.

In Photos: September clubs fair promotes community spirit

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor October 2, 2023

Carlmont's ASB hosts the first Clubs Fair of the year with a large turnout of eager freshmen ready to join as many clubs as they can. The fair hosts numerous clubs including the Calisthenics Club,...

Senior Charles Ding holds up a poster promoting the Carlmont Robotics Club. "I joined the Robotics Club initially just because I thought the idea of building robots was cool," Ding said. "We want to promote robotics to as many people as possible, because I feel like this club is heavily underrated. There's so much stuff you can do in robotics that you wouldn't be able to do in a conventional classroom."

Senior Charles Ding holds up a poster promoting the Carlmont Robotics Club. "I joined the Robotics Club initially just because I thought the idea of building robots was cool," Ding said. "We want to promote...

Co-founder of the Girls in STEM Club Linda Molnar talks to her other co-founder, Mila Hamby. Hamby attended two STEM summer programs, including one at Stanford, which inspired her to start the club. "I got to have a bunch of really cool experiences that really encouraged me and made me more confident," Hamby said. "It made me realize even more that I wanted to be a scientist. I wanted to be able to bring that to other people."

Co-founder of the Girls in STEM Club Linda Molnar talks to her other co-founder, Mila Hamby. Hamby attended two STEM summer programs, including one at Stanford, which inspired her to start the club. "I...

Casey Shea spreads awareness for the CAFE Club (Carlmont Athletes For Equality). It's a club designed to make Carlmont athletics more equal. "We want to give all sports equal representation and opportunity, no matter the sport or gender," Shea said.

Casey Shea spreads awareness for the CAFE Club (Carlmont Athletes For Equality). It's a club designed to make Carlmont athletics more equal. "We want to give all sports equal representation and opportunity,...

Seniors Samantha Dechaine and Kiera Moore promote the Junior State of America (JSA). JSA is a nonprofit organization that models the U.S. government and helps gets the youth politically engaged. "Promoting our club to other kids is so important in order to combat political apathy," Dechaine said.

Seniors Samantha Dechaine and Kiera Moore promote the Junior State of America (JSA). JSA is a nonprofit organization that models the U.S. government and helps gets the youth politically engaged. "Promoting...

Presidents Sanjana and Niyati Hazari promote the Girls in Motion Club to advocate and spread awareness for the visibility of girls sports at Carlmont High School and beyond. "We believe that all girls deserve the opportunity to be recognized for their hard work, be equally appreciated, and have the opportunity to compete, develop, and find passion through sports," said Niyati Hazari. "By promoting girls sports and breaking down stereotypes, we hope to create a future at Carlmont where girls sports are supported and respected as much as their male counterparts."

Presidents Sanjana and Niyati Hazari promote the Girls in Motion Club to advocate and spread awareness for the visibility of girls sports at Carlmont High School and beyond. "We believe that all girls...

Max Oestreich, a member of the Flying Disc Club, plays with a disc at the club stand in the quad. "At the Flying Disc Club, we have tons of fun hanging out and playing different frisbee games," Oestreich said. "I made the club because I really love playing frisbee and wanted others to learn how to play and have the same joy I do."

Max Oestreich, a member of the Flying Disc Club, plays with a disc at the club stand in the quad. "At the Flying Disc Club, we have tons of fun hanging out and playing different frisbee games," Oestreich...

Kellie Lam thinks about a question asked while selling donuts and chips for the Red Cross Club. They aim to teach people how to prepare for emergencies and support those in need. The club also raises awareness for worldwide natural disasters.

Kellie Lam thinks about a question asked while selling donuts and chips for the Red Cross Club. They aim to teach people how to prepare for emergencies and support those in need. The club also raises awareness...

Marlo Lewis, president of the Swing Club, talks to possible new members about the club and their goals. The club participates in performances including stunt tricks and swing dancing. "We do what we do because it's genuinely a lot of fun and a really cool way to bring a lot of people together who maybe don't have any dance experience," Lewis said. "It's gives them a chance to learn how to dance with a partner, make new friends and join a community of really cool people at Carlmont."

Marlo Lewis, president of the Swing Club, talks to possible new members about the club and their goals. The club participates in performances including stunt tricks and swing dancing. "We do what we do...

The Scots take the lead with a score of 6-0 within the first 5 minutes of the game. Eagles linebacker Adrian Chavez looks at the referee after he calls a false start for the Scots. After the Scots scored the first touchdown, the Eagles attempted to get a stop.

The Scots take the lead with a score of 6-0 within the first 5 minutes of the game. Eagles linebacker Adrian Chavez looks at the referee after he calls a false start for the Scots. After the Scots scored...

Seniors Braedan Kumer and Elliott Weinman celebrate after scoring a touchdown for the Scots in the first quarter. The Scots took the lead in the beginning of the game with a score of 13-0 by the end of the quarter.

[Photo] Eagles swoop in and come out victorious against Scots

September 30, 2023

Seniors Braedan Kumer and Elliott Weinman celebrate after scoring a touchdown for the Scots in the first quarter. The Scots took the lead in the beginning of the game with a score of 13-0 by the end of...

After the Scots first touchdown, senior quarterback Carlo Campobello goes to the bench as the defense runs onto the field. One of the assistant coaches high fives Campobello for the successful play the team executed. Confident in their lead, Campobello motivated the rest of the team on the bench.

After the Scots first touchdown, senior quarterback Carlo Campobello goes to the bench as the defense runs onto the field. One of the assistant coaches high fives Campobello for the successful play the...

Senior running back Braedan Kumer gains yards for the Scots in the second quarter. This led to another touchdown for the Scots, exciting the crowd. Despite the Eagles catching up in the score, the Scots were eager to take the lead once more.

Senior running back Braedan Kumer gains yards for the Scots in the second quarter. This led to another touchdown for the Scots, exciting the crowd. Despite the Eagles catching up in the score, the Scots...

Kumer runs off the field after scoring another touchdown in the second quarter. Tired after a 60-yard run, Kumer rests and prepares to maintain the energy into the second half. The Scots caught up and were down by one point by the end of the second quarter.

Kumer runs off the field after scoring another touchdown in the second quarter. Tired after a 60-yard run, Kumer rests and prepares to maintain the energy into the second half. The Scots caught up and...

Varsity cheer performs during halftime. Senior Sarah Shalita expresses her excitement for her last season. "I'm loving cheer season so far, it's a lot of fun," Shalita said.

Varsity cheer performs during halftime. Senior Sarah Shalita expresses her excitement for her last season. "I'm loving cheer season so far, it's a lot of fun," Shalita said.

The Carlmont dance team performs after the Scots cheer during halftime. They welcomed many new and skilled freshmen to the team. They are excited to continue to perform for the rest of the season.

The Carlmont dance team performs after the Scots cheer during halftime. They welcomed many new and skilled freshmen to the team. They are excited to continue to perform for the rest of the season.

Junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli dodges the Eagles defense in an attempt to gain yards. Down by four points, the Scots tried to score another touchdown in order to win the game. "We did really good, but there's always stuff to work on," Mattioli said.

Junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli dodges the Eagles defense in an attempt to gain yards. Down by four points, the Scots tried to score another touchdown in order to win the game. "We did really good,...

With four minutes left in the game, tension rose between Chavez and Scots wide receiver Oliver Newhauser. After the referee broke them up, they continued to play hard until the Scots offense came back on the field. The game ended at 38 seconds left with the Eagles winning 30-26.

With four minutes left in the game, tension rose between Chavez and Scots wide receiver Oliver Newhauser. After the referee broke them up, they continued to play hard until the Scots offense came back...

ASB Vice President Nicholas Tolod leads a Screamin' Scots chant during the fourth quarter. ASB members successfully increased school spirit despite the game occurring on a school night. "As long as the people on the track are having fun, then I think the people in the stands are gonna be able to feel that energy and have fun. Just getting the crowd going is really our main goal," Tolod said.

In Photos: Scots revive spirits for whiteout game

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor September 9, 2023

Carlmont's varsity football team lost 26-12 against the Half Moon Bay Cougars on Thursday night. After the Cougars' touchdown in the first quarter, the Scots were able to tie the game through an...

Carlmont coach Daniel Nelson tells his team to hustle back on the field after a timeout. With the Scots down 20-12 against the Cougars, he attempts to increase team spirits. Nelson also shared the team's new gameplan with the players.

Carlmont coach Daniel Nelson tells his team to hustle back on the field after a timeout. With the Scots down 20-12 against the Cougars, he attempts to increase team spirits. Nelson also shared the team's...

Kumer gets tackled by the Cougars defense in the fourth quarter. The Scots offensive line was unable to block him from the Cougars' defense. Facing four defenders, he pushes through, gaining a few more yards for the Scots. The Scots ended up losing the game 26-12.

Kumer gets tackled by the Cougars defense in the fourth quarter. The Scots offensive line was unable to block him from the Cougars' defense. Facing four defenders, he pushes through, gaining a few more...

Senior Joshua Lin plays the drums during the Carlmont Drumline's halftime performance. "I think it's awesome to be part of such a cool experience. Being the center of the school's spirit is one of my favorite high school memories and being able to do it with such amazing people, it's really great," Lin said.

Senior Joshua Lin plays the drums during the Carlmont Drumline's halftime performance. "I think it's awesome to be part of such a cool experience. Being the center of the school's spirit is one of my favorite...

Dance team captain Alissa Zirelli performs during the varsity football halftime show. "Carlmont dance team means so much to me. My favorite part is probably performing during halftime and then seeing my team grow as a whole," Zirelli said. "Even though there's not a lot of people, you can still see a strong knit community with the students, the ASB, the cheerleaders, and the dancers. You can really see the spirit radiating through the stands."

Dance team captain Alissa Zirelli performs during the varsity football halftime show. "Carlmont dance team means so much to me. My favorite part is probably performing during halftime and then seeing my...

Junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli runs the ball down the field during the second quarter. A Cougars defender attempts to tackle him, but fails, as Mattioli gains 10 more yards. He is then tackled by three opponents on the sideline.

Junior wide receiver Daniel Mattioli runs the ball down the field during the second quarter. A Cougars defender attempts to tackle him, but fails, as Mattioli gains 10 more yards. He is then tackled by...

During the first quarter, junior defensive back Keoki Firenze intercepted the ball. He celebrated with his team on the field after making the play. His coach high-fives him as he walks to the bench.

During the first quarter, junior defensive back Keoki Firenze intercepted the ball. He celebrated with his team on the field after making the play. His coach high-fives him as he walks to the bench.

Senior running back Braeden Kumer gains yards for the Scots in the second half of the game.

[Photo] Knights joust Scots in home opener

Stella Pavao, Staff Writer September 3, 2023

Senior running back Braeden Kumer gains yards for the Scots in the second half of the game.

Beyond the Surface Ep. 4: Family matters

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor June 1, 2023

Welcome to Beyond the Surface, hosted by Inaaya Omer. During the course of this series, she is joined by a new guest in each episode to talk about their experiences and their perspective on being a minority,...

Aaron Chun, a sophomore in the Carlmont Martial Arts Club presents his skills in a short performance for the school during lunch in the quad.

Scotsland 2023 Gallery

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor June 1, 2023

Naomi Hsu gracefully dances during her last performance of the year at the fair.

Naomi Hsu gracefully dances during her last performance of the year at the fair.

Senior and star drummer, Alex Maurry, winks at a friend during his band's live performance during Scotsland.

Senior and star drummer, Alex Maurry, winks at a friend during his band's live performance during Scotsland.

A senior gets tinsel in her hair while enjoying the hot summer weather.

A senior gets tinsel in her hair while enjoying the hot summer weather.

Nora Acosta, one of the leaders of the walkout and a Black Student Union (BSU) officer, leads a chant as the students exit the campus, her voice amplified through a megaphone. Guiding the students as they pour out of the campus, her chant ignites a collective spirit, empowering each protester to lend their voice and complete the chorus.

M-A students walkout for justice

Amid growing concerns over a recent police incident, students from Menlo-Atherton High School organized two walkouts to condemn police violence targeting people of color. According to the police...

A leader of the walkout encourages the protestors in the back of the crowd to join in the chants. The protest organizers used megaphones to ensure everyone participating was involved and engaged.

A leader of the walkout encourages the protestors in the back of the crowd to join in the chants. The protest organizers used megaphones to ensure everyone participating was involved and engaged.

Junior Nicholas Tolod (11) recovers from the previous play after the ball was thrown out of bounds.

Junior Nicholas Tolod (11) recovers from the previous play after the ball was thrown out of bounds.

Goalie Callum Gray (21) is frustrated after allowing the Palo Alto Vikings to score a goal.

Goalie Callum Gray (21) is frustrated after allowing the Palo Alto Vikings to score a goal.

Junior Braedan Kumer chases a Vikings player after the Scots lose a possession.

Junior Braedan Kumer chases a Vikings player after the Scots lose a possession.

Senior Anthony Paulazzo goes after Vikings player in an attempt to gain possession.

Senior Anthony Paulazzo goes after Vikings player in an attempt to gain possession.

Carlmont and Palo Alto players fight for the ground ball.

[Photo] Vikings take down Scots in varsity lacrosse showdown

March 27, 2023

Carlmont and Palo Alto players fight for the ground ball.

Carlmont and Palo Alto players fight for the ground ball.

Vikings take down Scots in varsity lacrosse showdown

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor March 27, 2023

In their first league game of the season on March 23, 2023, Carlmont's varsity boys lacrosse team lost to the Palo Alto Vikings by a score of 11-5. Tomorrow, the Scots take on the Menlo-Atherton Bears,...

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop-up museum.

[Photo] Local museum celebrates African-American accomplishments

February 7, 2023

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop-up museum.

A display of peanuts complements informational material on the life of George Washington Carver.

A display of peanuts complements informational material on the life of George Washington Carver.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop up museum.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop up museum.

Carolyn Hoskins presents a section dedicated to women in government.

Carolyn Hoskins presents a section dedicated to women in government.

Local artists provided work for display at the pop-up museum.

Local artists provided work for display at the pop-up museum.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the awards, honors, and recognitions she has received for her museum's representation of Black history and culture.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the awards, honors, and recognitions she has received for her museum's representation of Black history and culture.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop up museum.

Carolyn Hoskins shares the modern day basketball exhibit with an interested youth exploring the pop up museum.

An exhibit in the Domini Hoskins Balck History Museum and Learning Center to honor the many Black lives that were unrightfully taken.

An exhibit in the Domini Hoskins Balck History Museum and Learning Center to honor the many Black lives that were unrightfully taken.

An exhibit of the Civil Rights Movement section of the Domini Hoskins Balck History Museum and Learning Center.

An exhibit of the Civil Rights Movement section of the Domini Hoskins Balck History Museum and Learning Center.

Founder Carolyn Hoskins shares her experience talking to Judge LaDoris Cordell while presenting the section dedicated to Black women in government.

Founder Carolyn Hoskins shares her experience talking to Judge LaDoris Cordell while presenting the section dedicated to Black women in government.

Tina Gattey speaks with owner Angela Kalayjian in Lark, a small shop on Laurel Street that features products of local artists and artisans.

Tina Gattey speaks with owner Angela Kalayjian in Lark, a small shop on Laurel Street that features products of local artists and artisans.

Beyond the Surface Ep. 3: Know who you are

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor January 11, 2023

Welcome to Beyond the Surface, hosted by Inaaya Omer. During the course of this series she’ll be joined by a new guest in each episode to talk about their experiences and their perspective on being a...

Teens talk about mental health frequently. Millions of people around the world struggle with their mental health and therapy is a great way to improve it.

Opinion: Therapy is the key to unlocking personal growth

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor December 4, 2022

Am I doing enough? I’m a failure. What do they think about me? Do my parents hear me? How will I pay rent? I can’t stand this job. Did I eat today? Oftentimes you never really know what’s going...

Beyond the Surface Ep. 2: Complex identities

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor November 29, 2022

Welcome to Beyond the Surface, hosted by Inaaya Omer. During the course of this series she’ll be joined by a new guest in each episode to talk about their experiences and their perspective on being a...

Economists worry about falling into another global recession.

Possible recession raises concerns for the future

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor November 18, 2022

Across the globe, news of an eventual economic crisis is widespread. Skyrocketing prices at the gas station, paying way more for weekly groceries at the store, and hearing about rising costs for used cars...

Beyond the Surface Ep. 1: A Pakistani-American teen’s journey

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor November 7, 2022

Welcome to the first episode of Beyond the Surface, hosted by Inaaya Omer. Throughout this series, new guests will share their experiences and perspectives on being a minority, from an immigrant family,...

The first 100% affordable housing project was built on 817 Walnut Street, San Carlos.

[Photo] San Carlos city council candidates share perspectives on housing developments

Inaaya Omer and Gabrielle Shore October 26, 2022

The first 100% affordable housing project was built on 817 Walnut Street, San Carlos.

Two defenders from Santa Clara High School attempt to tackle Carlmont High School's tight end, senior Matt Abiezzi.

Two defenders from Santa Clara High School attempt to tackle Carlmont High School's tight end, senior Matt Abiezzi.

Senior running back John Hanna scores a touchdown gaining an advantage for Carlmont.

Senior running back John Hanna scores a touchdown gaining an advantage for Carlmont.

Santa Clara High School's defense attempts to tackle wide receiver, Austin Li.

Santa Clara High School's defense attempts to tackle wide receiver, Austin Li.

Standing tall: Lady Scots support the mini's in their performance any way they know how.

Standing tall: Lady Scots support the mini's in their performance any way they know how.

Running it out: Mini Monty's run and spread all the cheer. Mini Monty's dance around the sideline during Carlmont varsity football game.

Running it out: Mini Monty's run and spread all the cheer. Mini Monty's dance around the sideline during Carlmont varsity football game.

Fanning the Flames: Voices of the People

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor September 21, 2022

Thirteen students were suspended from Design Tech High School (d.tech) in Redwood City, California. These students, along with many others, protested the school’s new policies on Aug. 24, prompting allegations...

Oracle's Design Tech High School campus was established in 2014.

Fanning the flames: d.tech administration’s response to rebellion ignites controversy

Thirteen students were suspended from Design Tech High School (d.tech) in Redwood City, California. These students, along with many others, protested the school’s new policies on Aug. 24, prompting allegations...

Carlmont students participate in the "powder toss," which usually occurs near the end of the game.

Carlmont students participate in the "powder toss," which usually occurs near the end of the game.

Carlmont and Santa Clara players get up from the ground.

Carlmont and Santa Clara players get up from the ground.

Carlmont's drumline ensemble performs for the crowd.

Carlmont's drumline ensemble performs for the crowd.

Carlmont's offensive line faces off against Santa Clara's defensive line before a snap.

Carlmont's offensive line faces off against Santa Clara's defensive line before a snap.

Senior running back John Hanna runs past Santa Clara defenders.

Senior running back John Hanna runs past Santa Clara defenders.

Carlmont cheerleaders perform a routine for the crowd.

Carlmont cheerleaders perform a routine for the crowd.

Carnage Quidditch versus Silicon Valley Vipers at US Quidditch Cup 12 in Round Rock, Texas.

Real-life Quidditch allows fans to live out their childhood dreams

Inaaya Omer, Highlander Managing Editor May 24, 2022

"Harry was speeding toward the ground when the crowd saw him clap his hand to his mouth as though he was going to be sick-he hit the field on all fours-coughed-and something gold fell into his hand. 'I've...

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