NERD MANIFESTO As you probably HAVE NOT noticed, there is a lack of "intellectual snobs" here at VSS. Now this normally wouldn't be a problem, but VSS is a rather interesting case. It is known that VSS has somewhat of a "reputation" for being the school where all the ignorant little jerks who vandalise property, and terrorise surrounding neighborhoods seem to attend. While the almighty popular "homey 'G's" may get their kicks by committing petty crimes, the rest of us do not. This school has a serious problem with cliques, only the "Posse" is recognised and their notorious bad-ass attitudes can be blamed for this school's reputation. When students are under pressure to act a certain way it makes it difficult for them to find their own identity. Even the "Posse" themselves seem to be lacking in basic self confidence (or why else would they be afraid of what their "friends" think?). The only people who can avoid the "Posse" and still maintain their emotional and mental well being are the "Nerds". From what I gather, "Nerds" seem to be far more thoughtful, interesting, and focused on learning. Even if one is not "smart", one always gets good grades. "Nerds" are quite unique because they have everything going for them but are often extremely shy and self conscious. This is not to say that they are SCARED, or intimidated in any way, its just that we (us nerds) find it hard to relax under these conditions. Think about it. Subordinated classes (as "in groups" or "cliques") with the ADHD riddled popular crowd being the most oppressive and dictatorial of all. Just imagine what a COOL place this school could be if the "Nerds" were no longer in hiding. Academically, and otherwise, VSS would be NOTHING without nerds. I say, STOP THE OPPRESSION OF NERDS! There are, in fact, ways to go about doing this. Now, lets see..... without actually killing anyone who happens to be popular their must be a way to put things into perspective. What I would do, is first of all, single out the most obnoxious and oppressive students and have them evaluated by trained psychologists. This would be followed by at least 6 months of intensive counselling and, in most cases will result in the prescription of yet more ritalin, dexedrine, prozac, zoloft and lithium to the disturbed children of Vernon, BC. article by Nadja Harrison