May 2020 Le Journal by Alison Long

LE JOURNAL NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL | MAY 2020 | VOLUME 38

12 TIPS FOR GUARANTEED COLLEGE SUCCESS PAGE 23

RESCHEDULED AND CANCELED EVENTS PAGE 5

6 SENIORSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ADOPTION JOURNEYS PAGE 13

Class of 2020

The Senior Issue A tribute to the Senior Class and the past four years page 10-22

CONTENTS NEWS

FEATURES

Communities come together to stop spread of Covid-19

Updated school year schedule due to Covid-19

Q&A with six seniors about their adoption stories

Everything you need to know about Covid-19 in the United States

Senior Chesney Meidel has a passion for digital design and photography

Senior Ceresa Munjak-Khoury shares her journey with the Youth Symphony of Kansas City

Four seniors share about their jobs at Spin Pizza

Words of advice from the seniors to the underclassmen

Senior Ava Grace Vermillion auditioned for dance programs across the country

ON THE COVER

Senior Section: Seniors look back on the past four years as a final goodbye. Pictured from front to back at the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts where graduation takes place are seniors Christina Peters, Lily Henkle and Stephanie Vince. (Photo by Kamryn Rogers)

OPINIONS

Public universities are just as beneficial as Ivy League

Partial room and board refunds should be given to college students

(Photo submitted by Ava Grace Vermillion)

(Photo submitted by Helen Willis) (Photo by Madeline Hammett)

A&E

Movies to stream on demand

Local restaurants worth curbside pickup

Learn about some of the senior traditions the Class of 2020 was able to participate in

(Photo by Kamryn Rogers)

@lejournalsion www.lejournallive.com

02 LE JOURNAL

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ONLINE

@lejournalsion

LEJOURNALLIVE.COM

(Photo by Kamryn Rogers)

Memory Lane in the Living Room (Photo by MCT Campus)

Parade for Madigan Brown (Photo submitted by Madigan Brown)

Constitutional Rights versus National Compliance (Photo by MCT Campus)

Senior Skip Day Vlog (Photo submitted by Lilly Denney)

EDITOR’S INK W OUR TIPS

Making the Most of Summer 1. Get a Job or an Internship If you are old enough, getting a job is a great way to fill your summer while getting that “real world experience” as well as making some money. 2. Volunteer With all the extra time in the summer, make sure to give back to the community around you. Not only will you chip away at that graduation requirement, it is also one of the best ways to spend your time. 3. Spend Time with Family We may all be close to getting out of quarantine, but don’t be so quick to fly the coop. Still take time out over the summer to have family bonding and game nights to stay connected. 4. Prepare for College If you are a junior, summer is a great time to get ahead on college applications and essays so you don’t have to juggle that during the school year. 5. Have Fun Most importantly, have fun. It’s summer and a time to relax, make memories and hang out with the people you love.

e did it Class of 2020. We walked in four years ago, and through all the friendships, Mid tests, dances and English papers, we have made it through. Graduation is hopefully just around the corner in June, but virtual learning has already ended. Though this is not the ending we expected, we have powered through as a class and as a school. Although COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of our lives, our staff has come together to continue the tradition of the senior issue, and we hope you enjoy it. With COVID-19 comes the closing of movie theaters and restaurants all over Kansas City. Keep up with the best movies by checking out our list of the must watches. What’s better than just watching a movie? Watching one while eating the best food, so check out the best bakeries, nutrition shake and tea places before your next binge watching session (pg. 9). Still hungry? Check out Spin Pizza, where four seniors and childhood friends, Iris Evans, Helen Willis, Christina Peters and Lily Henkle, all work together (pg. 19). The Class of 2020 also has six adopted students. Hear about their experiences with

adoption and lasting connections with their culture, as well as their parents’ stories from adopting their children (pg. 13). The Senior Class is full of fine arts talent, including photography and graphic design. Check out senior Chesney Meidel’s passion for these two that she was able to explore during the CAPS program (pg. 16). While you are in the senior section, check out our other two features. Senior Ava Grace Vermillion is going to college for dance (pg. 21), and senior Ceresa MunjakKhoury plays her French horn (pg. 17). Lastly, we have some thank yous in order. To our readers, thank you for making our work meaningful. To our staff, thank you for your flexibility during these times and your dedication to this paper, without which, this would not be possible. We would also like to thank the seniors for their cooperation in helping us make this special issue. Our most important thank you, though, is to the best adviser in high school journalism, Alison Long. Thank you for pushing our paper to be the absolute best, and for pushing us to be the best versions of ourselves. We will miss you dearly. Signing off for the last time, Ava & Kamryn

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A&E EDITOR

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SPORTS EDITOR MORGAN HERRIOTT

MAY 2020

STAY-AT-HOME ORDER

The stay-at-home order was first issued in Kansas City March 24 and was expected to last until April 24. But Mayor Quinton Lucas ordered an extension to the order through May 15. Rules from the current order will still apply which includes no gatherings exceeding 10 people and you must maintain social distancing. “I don’t want to stay in my house,” junior Megan Aldaco said, “but I will to ensure the safety of others in my community.” During the mandate, the mayor and his counterparts will discuss the future of social distancing in Missouri. (Photo by MCT Campus)

FINE ARTS DAY Fine Arts Day was held as a Zoom event on April 29 from 1-2 p.m. Students submitted their artwork they created in the past school year or a 3-minute performance. Visual and Performing Arts teacher Maggie Killian hosted the event, which consisted of a sideshow showcasing various pieces of artwork. Among the artwork were photos, paintings, short clips from the drama club, drumline and choir. The event also recognized all the senior members of Tri-M. “I made the video to recognize the seniors who helped raise awareness for the fine arts at Sion,” senior and Tri-M president Ceresa Munjak-Khoury said. “I wanted to say thank you to them.” (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

COLLEGE // MOST POPULAR

NEWS IN BRIEF

This year’s National Honor Society induction ceremony was canceled due to the stay-at-home order issued by Mayor Quinton Lucas. The original date of the induction ceremony was March 25, but this year’s candidates will be celebrated in the 2020-2021 spring ceremony. “I’m glad that the National Honor Society was rescheduled,” sophomore and new member Carmen Phillips said. “I feel like I’m not a part of the National Honor Society until I’m inducted.” Pictured is junior Emma Grojean giving blood at the NHS Blood Drive. (Photo by Cecilia Mochasi)

ENGLISH IV PROJECTS

English IV has been creating group action-based projects for the Kansas City area or the school community. Projects have been reworked for virtual learning into Zoom meetings during lunch with active speakers to allow for direct participation. Students submitted their projects on Padlet and shared it with the community. There was also an opportunity for Government students to earn civic engagement credit by attending. One group studied the price of prescription drugs. “We had a guest speaker named David Mitchell who talked about his foundation and his story,” senior Felicia Knox said. “He presented touching stories to policy makers to help make drugs more affordable.” (Photo submitted by Felicia Knox)

University of Kansas 16 students

University of Missouri 8 students

University of Arkansas 6 students

Kansas State University 5 students

WORLDWIDE Olympics Postponed

As worries of the coronavirus sweep the world, the 2020 Tokyo summer Olympics have officially been postponed. With kickoff originally set for July 24, the event has been rescheduled to take place on July 23, 2021. (Photo by MCT Campus)

Coronavirus Origin Trying to uncover the origins of the COVID-19 outbreak has proven difficult. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reported May 1 that there is evidence of the outbreak starting from a lab in Wuhan. But he agreed with the scientifc community that the cirus was not man made. (Photo by MCT Campus)

Jong-Un’s Absence Kim Jong-Un is reportedly alive and residing at a resort compound in pictures picked up by satellites after being in critical condition, according to a report by Fox News. Jong-Un had heart surgery April 12 due to many factors including obesity, smoking and overwork. The people of North Korea and the world haven’t seen Jong-Un since his surgery. (Photo by MCT Campus)

UPCOMING AND LOCAL MAY 15 04 LE JOURNAL

END OF QUARANTINE Pictured is junior Riley Weaver (Photo by Catherine Crayon)

JUNE 13

PROM Pictured are Stella Lilek and Tierney Manning (Photo by Ana Pendergast)

JUNE 25

GRADUATION Pictured is Megan Broomfield (Photo by Dana Kalt, Le Flambeau)

NEWS

Infectious Kindness While COVID-19 takes over the world, local businesses and communities strive to help out with the demands produced by the virus. BY KATE CONWAY REPORTER

During the global pandemic, while the news is consumed with bad news, there have been spotlights of hope throughout communities in Kansas City. The virus has spurred people to show support for those suffering from its effects. With kids stuck at home due to school closures, a game has sprung up across all 50 states in which participants put teddy bears in their windows for kids and their parents to walk or drive around and find. It has encouraged people to go for walks and be active or go on a drive to get out of the house, but also stay safe at the same time. The “Teddy Bear Hunt” has taken over Facebook with a 10,000 plus member group, where people post all the teddy bears they’ve found. “We are doing one in my neighborhood right now,” sophomore Abby Thornhill said. “It’s really fun to see everybody outside and in good spirits

enjoying each other and the weather.” J. Rieger & Co., the Kansas City owned and operated distillery, is helping during the pandemic by providing two-liter bottles of hand sanitizer in response to the high demand. They have donated around 4,000 bottles of sanitizer to nursing homes, medical professionals, health care systems and first responders. Additionally, J. Rieger & Co.’s restaurant has begun a community food kitchen. The kitchen opened March 16 and served 300 people within the first three days of business. They accept donations but ask that proper sanitation is used when donating. “I think that it’s really cool to see how people who have the resources to help others during this time are using them to benefit those who are in need of the community’s help,” junior Mikayla Gunther said. Because of the current scarcity of face masks for protection when people have to leave the house, the Kansas City community has begun to produce masks to help those most in need. The Made In KC company has produced about 7,000 masks partnered with Sandlot Goods. Other companies that have taken to mask production include SewKC, Rightfully Sewn and Lucia’s Sarto. “The pandemic, while it’s effects are

catastrophic, has pushed the community to show what it is truly capable of doing when people are in need,” junior Violet Tumlin said.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Donate food to a food pantry. (Crossroads Food Kitchen) Practice good hand washing by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Obey the stay at home order and only leave when essential. Wear masks when leaving the home. (Purchase at SewKC, Rightfully Sewn and Lucia’s Sarto) (Illustrations by Kate Conway)

Changes to Scheduling for Rest of Year Due to COVID-19, school activities have been canceled or rescheduled. BY KATE VANKEIRSBILCK REPORTER

COVID-19 has altered student activities that would normally have been completed during the school year. Events like prom, graduation, Junior Ring and National Honor Society Induction have each been rescheduled for new dates. “We are trying our best to reschedule and allow the girls to not miss too many of their special traditions,” principal Natalie McDonough said. “If we can delay them or recreate them the best way we can, we are trying to do that.” Prom was originally scheduled for Saturday, March 28. The tentative backup date for prom was Friday, May 8 but has been moved again due to stay at home orders and virtual learning continuing for the rest of the school year. The new date of prom is Wednesday, June 13 at the Museum at Prairiefire.

“We are lucky we thought to look ahead before we knew how much COVID-19 would affect everything,” co-Prom coordinator April Schendel said. “ And for now each aspect is set to work out.” Graduation was first scheduled for Thursday, May 21 at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. The event space was booked in advance and has now been changed to Thursday, June 25 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. “I’m most excited to finally get to be with my whole grade again for the last time and the date changing won’t impact any of the memories being made,” senior Libby Slaymaker said. Junior ring was scheduled for Thursday, April 23 for the juniors to receive their class rings from seniors and family. The tradition has been moved to August in the upcoming school year. “I’m excited that Sion is still able to host a junior ring ceremony because it is a very unique tradition that everyone wants to experience,” junior Lia Johnson said.

National Honor Society induction was set for Wednesday, March 25. The ceremony was then postponed, and it was announced there would be a virtual induction. The virtual induction was canceled and students’ names that were being inducted were sent out in the weekly update as recognition. The students who were on the list will be inducted in next year’s ceremony in the spring. “After Governor Parson’s order at the end of last week, finding the right time for the Sion community to get together and celebrate our new inductees within this school year was not possible,” National Honor Society coordinator Emilie Lai said. Senior service projects have been altered due to the stay at home order as well. If students do not complete the 25 hour requirement for senior service projects but have the 100 hours needed to graduate, religion teachers Polly Holmes and Jessica Hull will consider those students’ hours required complete. “Students could not complete the marginalized and leadership hours due to social distancing

mandates,” Holmes said. “Since we do not know how long the stay at home order will last we needed to rework the requirements to be fair.” Some students had their senior service projects during spring break like the annual trip to Guatemala. But it was canceled because of the risk of COVID-19. There wasn’t a way for them to make up the opportunity lost which is another cause for the new requirements. “After Guatemala was canceled I worked on getting involved in AbilityKC and Morning Glory Ministries,” senior Bridget Schumm said. “But each were canceled due to COVID-19.” COVID-19 has been changing and rearranging both the academic and everyday calendar. For each event that has been canceled, Sion has a goal to reschedule it, according to Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction Ellen Carmody “Rescheduling events is a priority to ensure students have the most traditional and normal end of school year possible,” Carmody said. MAY 2020

NEWS

ONE NATION,

UNDER QUARANTINE COVID-19’s spread across the country has left the United States stranded in uncharted territory. STORY AND DESIGN BY KENNEDY WADE MANAGING PRINT EDITOR

ithin six months of its discovery in Wuhan, China, the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has infected over 3 million people worldwide, according to the Johns Hopkins Center for Systems Science and Engineering. COVID-19’s threat lies in both its novelty and how it spreads. Due to its sudden emergence, there is no vaccine to protect against it or drugs approved to easily treat it, and, unlike the flu, no one has prior immunity, according to the New York Times. The World Health Organization estimated that one out of every five people with COVID-19 will require hospitalization. Those at risk of developing life-threatening conditions include the elderly and people with already weakened immune systems, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing and saliva, according to WHO. Out of those who have it, a significant number are asymptomatic, according to the CDC. When the common symptoms of coughing, fever and fatigue occur, symptoms can potentially manifest up to two weeks after infection. In both cases, the virus is still capable of spreading - those who are unaware they have the virus unknowingly spread it, resulting in the more severe and documented cases, according to Live Science. Due to how easily COVID-19 spreads, all states but Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming have issued stay at home orders in an effort to slow the rate of infection and ease the strain on hospitals. These extensions have sparked protests in response from citizens in disagreement with the measures taken. In both Kansas and Missouri, Governor Laura Kelly and Governor Mike Parson extended their respective state’s stay at home order to midnight on May 3, according to Ballotpedia. In Kansas City, however, Mayor Quinton Lucas extended the stay at home order until May 15. The high rate of infection and subsequent stress put on the healthcare industry in the United States has led to a shortage of both beds and ventilators, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. In all 50 states, federal disaster declarations have been declared, meaning that the federal government will help state governments with the crisis, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. While the future with dealing with COVID-19 is unsure, ending social distancing measures too quickly could lead to a surge in cases and deaths, according to Huffpost. Experts believe that the world will be forced to play “whack-a-mole” with the virus after nationwide lock down orders come to an end, according to the Atlantic. Small outbreaks would need to be quelled as they appear until a vaccine is created - a process that could potentially take upwards of 18 months. The only certainty is that the issue of COVID-19 will linger long past the end of social distancing measures. Jan. 7 A new coronavirus is identified by Chinese authorities

Dec. 31 Several cases of pneumonia of unknown cause are treated in Wuhan, China

Jan. 20 First case in the United States is reported in Snohomish County, Washington Jan. 11 China reports its first death caused by the novel coronavirus

CORONAVIRUS CASE REPORT 3,397,879

1,121,414

CONFIRMED CASES WORLDWIDE

CONFIRMED CASES IN UNITED STATES

241,547

1,069,264

DEATHS RECORDED WORLDWIDE

PEOPLE RECOVERED WORLDWIDE

6,551,810

187

PEOPLE TESTED IN UNITED STATES

DIFFERENT COUNTRIES AFFECTED

MOST CASES BY COUNTRY 1. UNITED STATES

6. GERMANY

2. SPAIN

7. TURKEY

3. ITALY

8. RUSSIA

4. UNITED KINGDOM

9. IRAN

5. FRANCE

10. BRAZIL

80.9% OF CASES ARE MILD AND DON’T DEVELOP PAST A FEVER AND COUGH

13.8% OF CASES ARE SEVERE AND CAN DEVELOP SYMPTOMS LIKE PNEUMONIA

4.7% OF CASES ARE CRITICAL AND CAN DEVELOP SYMPTOMS LIKE ORGAN FAILURE, SEPTIC SHOCK AND RESPIRATORY FAILURE

MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS MOST CASES DEVELOP DRY COUGH, FEVER, FATIGUE AND DIFFICULTY BREATHING. IN CASES WITH WORSENING SYMPTOMS LIKE PNEUMONIA, HOSPITALIZATION IS ENCOURAGED (Infographic and timeline information from Johns Hopkins CSSE and Worldometer.)

Feb. 6 First known death in United States due to the virus

Jan. 30 WHO declares a public health emergency

March 9 Italy implements a total lock down

Feb. 11 Novel coronavirus is named COVID-19

March 13 United States declares a state of emergency

March 11 WHO declares COVID-19 a pandemic, Trump announces travel ban

(Photos from Wikimedia Commons contributer Robert Hirway and Creative Commons, Photo illustrations by Managing Print Editor Kennedy Wade)

06 LE JOURNAL

NEWS

March 23 New York City becomes epicenter of the United States outbreak March 15 Kansas City bans gatherings of over 50 people

March 26 United States surpasses China and Italy in confirmed cases

March 24 2020 Olympics are officially postponed until 2021

April 9 All Missouri schools are ordered to close for the rest of the school year

March 31 Approximately 80% of Americans are under stay at home orders

April 16 Kansas and Missouri extend stay at home orders until May 3, Kansas City until May 15

April 11 All 50 states have issued federal disaster declarations

May 3 Kansas and Missouri ease social distancing orders

April 26 The total world wide death toll surpasses 200,000

MAY 2020

OPINION

Stick to State Schools Public universities provide an education and experience that is just as beneficial as one at an Ivy League university. BY MORGAN HERRIOTT SPORTS EDITOR

$56,631. It’s the average amount a student would pay per year in tuition fees at an Ivy League university, according to College Tuition Compare. The cost of an Ivy League school is a massive investment for any student seeking a rigorous path for their college education. On average, state schools are cheaper, with an average tuition of $10,440 for in-state residents, and $26,820 for outof-state residents, according to CollegeData. The eight Ivy League universities have a reputation as the most prestigious schools in the world. Although the cost of an Ivy League education may seem unreasonable, the whopping total does come with benefits. Students who attend Ivy Leagues have greater access to alumni networking, more research resources, higher income statistics and a head start in the workforce, according to Crimson Education. While state schools may not provide these specific benefits, they still provide students with a remarkable furthering of their education and an

$11,148

is the average annual in-state tuition at the University of Kansas

extensive amount of opportunities after a student has graduated, all at a much more affordable price. State schools provide an education that is just as exceptional as one a student would receive from an Ivy League school. Attending an Ivy League may show that a student had an impressive high school career, but this does not make other students or state schools any less valuable. Public universities such as University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of California-Los Angeles and University of Virginia currently rank in the top 30 best colleges in America, according to Niche. While the Ivy Leagues are typically ranked in the top 10, this doesn’t automatically mean that someone who graduated from an Ivy League should always be “ranked” higher than someone who graduated from a state school. Their “rank” should be determined by their school performance, leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities and more, not just the status of the college they went to. Going to an Ivy League doesn’t mean that there will be a secret stash of job opportunities that are reserved for these graduates. A job applicant with a degree from an Ivy League may look more impressive than one from a state school at first glance. However, that’s only one part of that person’s resume. There is a relatively low relation between an elite undergraduate education and an executive position in the workforce, according to

$9,972

is the average annual in-state tuition at the University of Missouri

a 2017 study conducted by Oxford Academic. The student who attended the state school may have had more leadership opportunities or experiences in the workforce. It all comes down to the person and their achievements as a whole, not just the level of prestige of their alma mater. For most families, cost is one of the biggest factors when it comes to where their children will go to college. Typically, low-income families cannot afford to attend 95% of colleges, even when granted financial aid, according to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Admissions. Student debt is a similar deciding factor, with the average total student debt balance at $26,900 for graduates of public universities, and $32,600 for students who attended private universities, according to the College Board. State universities are clearly the more reasonable decision when it comes to finances. Overall, an Ivy League education doesn’t mean automatic success. Yes, an Ivy League may be worth the cost for a number of students. But that doesn’t mean that cost is worth it for everyone. In the end, it comes down to which college is the right fit for a certain student. The ticket to success isn’t going to the most prestigious or expensive school in the country. The ticket to success is going to a university that feels like home and a place where you can thrive towards your best self and biggest accomplishments.

$50,420 $50,340 64% is the average annual tuition at Harvard University

is the average annual tuition at Princeton University

of the class of 2020 is attending a public university

College Students Have a Right to Refunds As college campuses across the country shut down and students are forced to leave dorms, room and board fees should be partially refunded to account for the lack of use. BY EMMA HUTCHIN PHOTO EDITOR

In a matter of days, collegiate education in the United States was flipped upside down. Students were told to evacuate campuses and pack essentials, not knowing whether or not they would be able to return to their home away from home. Now, as COVID-19 rages throughout the country, students and their parents are demanding a partial refund for the unused room and board fees for the remainder of the semester. Although a valid response to forced evacuation, this concept is not being

08 LE JOURNAL

nationally implemented. Many schools are doing their best to support students forced to leave campus. For example, the University of California San Diego issued a full refund on spring semester room and board if students moved out of their dorms by March 29, according to USA Today. Other schools have allowed students to remain on campus if they are not able to return home. Schools like Northwestern University have issued formal statements regarding room and board costs. Credits will be issued to students absent from campus and in the chance in-person class resumes, students will be billed with the remainder of their dues, according to the Northwestern website. Other colleges like the University of Missouri, a large state school, have canceled classes throughout the entirety of the spring semester. However, the

school is only issuing a 45 percent housing discount and 25 percent reassessment credit for tuition, according to the school’s website. The University of Kansas is issuing case by case housing credits depending on room type and building, according to their website. The problem lies in that, there is no regulation on what colleges should and should not refund. Each school decides for themselves what to provide students with during this time of confusion. If a student is not living on campus, and therefore not using campus resources or dining halls, their housing and dining costs should be credited back to them. Due to the fact that students are still participating in lectures and discussions via Zoom and Google Meets, a full spring tuition return is not necessary nor is it valid considering professors are still working and in need of a paycheck. Schools should reimburse

students for at least half of the spring semester room and board, or credit that money towards next year’s dues. This benefits students, as the money they put into living on campus, is rightfully returned to them considering universities across the country are becoming ghost towns. It benefits the schools themselves because even though they are having to refund part of their total income from the year, it subsequently reduces tension from students demanding their money back, and it’s only a small sum compared to the entirety of the spri uition. As the country attempts to grasp hold of what the future of higher education will look like, universities and their students need to be open to change. Virtual learning has taken hold and is shifting the concept of modern education. Regardless, in terms of common sense, if a student is not living on campus, they should not be charged for doing so.

A&E

Create your own utopia through these movies.

The

BY REPORTER GRACE HILLS

CINEMATIC UNIVERSE From Home

1. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

This movie sets the bar. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ” follows the “sick day” of (you guessed it) Ferris Bueller (Charlie Schlatter), an 18-yearold firecracker. He scoops up his Eeyore-esque friend Cameron (Brandon Douglas) and Madonna-esque Sloane (Ami Dolenz) and they set out to parade around downtown Chicago. In his adolescent world, director John Hughes criticizes the nitty-gritty world of teenagers set by adults. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ” is a statement of freedom from that world. PG-13. 1 h 43 m.

2. Dead Poets Society

Nostalgia is brought to the center of attention as Robin Williams plays John Keating, an English teacher full of charisma in an all-boys school infamous for order, happiness seems transcendental. Watching the 1989 film directed by Peter Weir through 21st century views is eerie, knowing that the main actor struggled with depression and took his own life gives the movie a freaky parallel- one that’s a little too realistic. It’s one of those movies that linger on your mind for days after and leaves you wondering: “How realistic is it?” PG. 2 h 20m.

3. Moonrise Kingdom

A story of paradise when it feels as if we’re living in a dystopia. Director Wes Anderson creates an idealistic world of his two 12-yearold protagonists, Sam (Jared Gilman) and Suzy (Kara Hayward) who plan a jailbreak from their restrictive adult-ran world. They’re running from their “Very Troubled Child” name-tag as they puff cigars and flaunt neon blue eyeliner. Nobody ever seems to smile, but the bright colored island setting seems to do it for them. Suzy, symbolically living in the lighthouse seems to be the light of the island, and Sam is her muse. PG-13. 1h 35m.

4. Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Curbside Pick-me-ups

While day-to-day life during COVID-19 may be bland, don’t let your palate be too. Add some flavor to your life with these restaurants offering curbside pickup. BY GRACE HILLS REPORTER

STILLWELL BAKERY $ Small-town-chic, with a scenery of fields and roads, Stillwell Bakery falls into the Kansas small town niche. The store has a homemade feel to it, and the baked goods reflect that. They seem to be made in heaven, or in a grandma’s kitchen. Stillwell Bakery has a down-to-earth feel to it and is well worth the drive. Details: 20285 Metcalf Ave, Bucyrus, KS 66013; $2-8; Open 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

MIDWEST NUTRITION $$

A documentary around public television’s hero: Mister Rogers. Though his impact was far before our time as Gen-Z, a feeling of nostalgia warps the entire movie, directed by Morgan Neville. Rogers created a land of make-believe for children to feel safe in during the 1960s, giving them a safe space to explore the issues of the day. Rogers used his adult title and his warmth to create a gentle yet formal air around him, which could easily be seen through the screen. He created a “neighborhood,” full of kings and queens and everything in between that promoted morality. The documentary is essentially a thank-you letter from the children he leads through a divisive world. PG-13. 1h 49m. (Illustrations by Grace Hills)

Nutrition clubs seem to throw the “health” label onto every product. But after leaving one, the true feeling of “health” is rarely achieved. This club is different. They leave a pleasant, healthful effect which is hard to find. The teas and shakes feel fresh and your body will be thanking you later. Details: 11964 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66213; $10-15; Open 7 a.m.- 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-7 p.m., Closed on Sundays.

MCLAIN’S MARKET $$ America runs on Dunkin, but Kansas City runs on McLain’s. From the tiny signature McLain’s cookies to the Market Bowl, everything about this restaurant is a Kansas City classic. A classic favorite is the avocado toast, also known as heaven in a box. Nobody quite does Avocado Toast, or any kind of food for that matter, like McLain’s. Details: four locations—Waldo, Overland Park, Lawrence and Shawnee; $2-20; Open 7 a.m.- 6 p.m. and 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. on Sundays.

DRAGONFLY TEA ZONE $ With a multitude of flavors, a funky location and tiny bursts of flavor, what’s not to like? Dragonfly Tea Zone makes out-of-the-ordinary boba teas that add flavor and fun to their drinks. They offer the perfect inexpensive addition to any day. Because in the middle of quarantine, everyone needs a bit of flavor. Details: 409 Main St., Kansas City MO. 64105; $4-6; Open 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. MAY 2020

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For a full photo gallery with captions head to www. lejournallive.com.

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Softball Senior Night

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SENIORS

Sophia Angrisano University of Kansas

Nia Austin Missouri Western State University

Jenna Barackman University of Kansas

Caroline Boessen Southern Methodist University

Anna Breckenridge University of Arkansas

Finals horror story? I hadn’t studied for one of my finals because I thought it was in the afternoon... it was my first final of the day. The moment you want to relive? Getting to sing seniors rock the house for the first time ever. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Señora Gómez. She is my mom. Funniest Sion memory? Freshman year Field Day we all turned the sand pit puddle into a slip and slide.

What will you miss most about Sion? Seeing the underclassmen I’m close to. The moment you want to relive? The freshman year Sion vs. STA game. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Participating in sports all four years. Finals horror story? Showing up late because I forgot I had a morning final. Funniest Sion memory? Meeting with the upperclassmen and talking to Johnny in the library.

Funniest Sion memory? Dislocating my knee dancing to the Jonas Brothers dressed as an ostrich freshman year. Advice to your freshman self? Stop wearing so many One Direction shirts. It’s weird. Funniest pink slip? One time I set my dead phone on my desk face down in McGory’s class. He gave me a pink slip for phone usage even though that was literally impossible. Favorite place at Sion? Long’s room.

Funniest pink slip? I had one foot in the door and one foot outside the door as the bell rang, so McGory gave me one for being late. Finals horror story? Freshman finals binders. Advice to your freshman self? Live every day to the fullest and don’t take any moment for granted because it will fly by so fast. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? All of the friends and bonds I have made. The moment you want to relive? Sion Olympics.

Favorite Sion memory? Getting my ring from my two sisters. What will you miss most about Sion? Getting to wear the uniform and be with the most amazing girls everyday. Advice to your freshman self? Enjoy everyday, no matter how bad, because you’ll miss it so much when you leave. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Finding my forever best friends. Moment you want to relive? Going to Sion with my sister.

Madeline Anstoetter University of Kansas

Maya Bair Regis University

Marigrace Bishop Saint Louis University

Brie Bowes University of Arkansas

Madigan Brown University of Arkansas

Funniest pink slip? Señora LaFaver would always pink slip me freshman year for being a little too crazy and loud in her classroom. Finals horror story? One year I forgot to show up with any pencils to my first final and was frantically searching the school. The moment you want to relive? Watching the Junior Stuco perform the Sion Olympics dance. It hyped up the entire grade and everyone was so excited. What will you miss most about Sion? My friendships!

Funniest pink slip? One time freshman year, Mrs. Engel tried to give me a pink slip for blue shoelaces. I pulled white ones out of my backpack and asked her to show me how to put them in. I avoided the pink slip and the class got a lesson on how to lace shoes. What teacher would you take with you to college? The entire foreign language department... and Mrs. Mulkey... and Kram. Advice to your freshman self? Mind your own biscuits and life will be gravy.

Funniest Sion memory? Timson wiping out during chemistry class. The moment you want to relive? Getting my junior ring from my mom and sister. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Balancing school, family, friends, work and a social life. Finals horror story? I forgot my pencil and calculator for the Honors Chemistry final junior year. What will you miss the most about Sion? Seeing all of my friends everyday.

Favorite Sion memory? Winning against STA twice senior year and hyping up the student section. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Glatz, hands down. She is my person and I can always talk to her. What will you miss most about Sion? The community and sisterhood. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Becoming president of three clubs and receiving the Notre Mère Award.

What teacher would you take with you to college? McGory because he could help me with math and keep me updated on all the latest jokes. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t stress too much. Work hard but don’t overdo it. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? I am proud that I have become a more independent and confident woman. Favorite Sion memory? I really enjoyed Field Day.

SENIOR

TRADITIONS ILLUSTRATIONS BY EMMA HUTCHIN PHOTO EDITOR

SENIOR POLOS I love that seniors get different colored polos and I think it kicks off the year with a fun start because we get to have something new. It’s something to look forward to for your final year. - senior Cara Hiatt

TAILGATE My favorite thing about the tailgate was getting to be together as a group before we started senior year because none of us could’ve expect it to end like this. So that memory is a good one. - senior Anna Switzer

LUNCH CHECK-OUT My favorite part about checking out for lunch is getting to go have lunch with my friends and hangout everyday. - Barbara Mae King

ROCK THE HOUSE I love being around all of the seniors and since freshman year have always looked forward to getting to say the chant. - senior Maeve Hogg

SENIOR NIGHTS My favorite thing about having a senior night was that it was a celebration of all of the seniors’ accomplishments and hard work. It’s a night that truly lets the seniors have their moment. - senior Marigrace Bishop

GRADUATION I have always looked forward to being on stage at the Kauffman in our white dresses. I’m excited to get my diploma and it’s something I’ve looked forward to since freshman year. - senior Brie Bowes

MAY 2020

SENIORS

Gresha Burton University of Missouri

Gia Clementi University of Kansas

Lilly Denney

Funniest Sion memory? Falling down the stairs when everyone was going to Mass. It was crowded and I took a few people out with me. Finals horror story? Never knowing which final I was showing up for. Favorite Sion memory? Getting trampled trying to leave Winter Formal every year. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Engel because she would always have the best advice for me.

Funniest pink slip? Mr. McGory gave me one for having a Starbucks drink walking into class junior year. It was my first pink slip. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Madame Bono, she always hypes me up and gives great advice. Finals horror story? Halfway through roll call during one of my finals I realized I was in the wrong room. Favorite Sion memory? French class with all of my best friends.

Favorite senior tradition? Last Sion Olympics. Funniest pink slip? Getting a detention for taking the slice of turkey and then crying to my choir class about it. When it happened it wasn’t funny to me but it is now. Favorite Sion memory? All of the Sion musicals and tech week in general. What teacher would you take to college and why? Mrs. Mulkey because she’s like a second mom to me.

Illinois Wesleyan University

Gracie Dorman

Maggie Duncan

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University of NebraskaLincoln

Elizabeth Crabtree University of Iowa

Allie Dierks

Favorite Sion memory? My friend and I that I carpooled with would get coffee every morning we had a late start junior year. What teacher would you take to college and why? Ms. Watts. I really adore her as a teacher. I really loved having her class last semester. It felt like we all just hung out instead of being at a school. It was nice. The moment you want to relive? The creative writing field trip.

Maleah Downton

Washington University in St. Louis What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Kram or Mrs. Cox because they show myself and others their potential. Finals horror story? Waking up seven minutes before McGory’s Algebra final, but I still made it in time even though I live 15 minutes away. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Cultivating my identity. Favorite place at Sion? Mrs. Cox’s room.

Katie Dykeman Creighton University

Dennise Carmona University of MissouriKansas City

Funniest pink slip? Hilg gave me a pink slip for excessive talking on a day I swear I was never in the South Six. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Señora Gonzalez because she has been my therapist for the past three years. Finals horror story? I locked all my geometry tools in my carpool ride’s car during sophomore year and I had to run all over the school trying to find her.

Favorite Sion memory? STA basketball game and dance senior night. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Being involved in a lot of different things through school and all of the friendships I have made that I know will last a lifetime. The moment you want to relive? All of the pep assemblies. Funniest Sion memory? When I fell during a dance performance at an assembly.

University of Arkansas

Savannah College of Art and Design

University of Oregon

Colleen Bryne

Funniest pink slip? I only received one for chewing gum in my first McGory class ever, and I cried a lot. Favorite Sion memory? Watching Sion Olympics and all the girls absolutely killing their dances because it gets everyone so hype. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Cox because she’s so supportive and understood the struggles we had as students.

Sydney Crouch University of Alabama

Logan Dixon Arizona State University

Funniest Sion memory? After Winter Formal junior year, we went to Main Event and acted like the crazy kids we all are. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Wilcox because she’d proofread all of my essays. What will you miss the most about Sion? I’m going to miss the familiarity—the community. Sion is my second home. The bonds we hold to each other are nonreplicable.

Funniest pink slip? I was tardy every day because my ride was never on time. Favorite Sion memory? My junior ring ceremony when my sister surprised me to present my ring after telling me for months that she couldn’t. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Madame Bono because she is always so positive. Favorite quarantine activity? Watching movies with my dogs.

Mary Claire Dunagan Kansas State University

What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Cox or Mrs. Durkin because they are the most genuine people ever and they have given me the best advice. Advice to your freshman self? Take advantage of every second you spend here. Life is short and sweet. It really does go by too fast. Favorite Sion memory? The freshman year basketball sleepover. Favorite place at Sion? The counselors office.

Funniest Sion memory? When Pil dressed up as the Elf on the Shelf and came into my English class. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Probably Mrs. Cox, because she was my favorite teacher junior year. What will you miss the most about Sion? Just all the people and the tight knit community. The moment you want to relive? Probably Sion Olympics. It’s so fun to watch!

What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Señora Schendel. I just love that woman. Advice to your freshman self? Do not take any day or high school experience for granted and enjoy it while it lasts. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Going to State in soccer and tennis. Why did you choose your college? The great sunny weather and the fact that I will see my brother there often.

Funniest pink slip? I’m pretty sure Dr. Hersh gave me a pink slip on the first day of school because I was wearing ankle socks. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mr. Conaghan because I need someone to keep my ego in check. Favorite Sion memory? All of the bus rides home from the softball games. Funniest Sion memory? Pretty much every interaction I have ever had with Conaghan.

Funniest Sion memory? When I went out of my classroom to secretly call my mom to let me out of school and the whole class heard me. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mr. Conaghan, because he is an old school good guy who knows what he is talking about. Funniest pink slip? Being unable to focus in Mrs. Haghirian’s class.

Emma Edgar University of Kansas

SENIORS

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Six seniors and their parents answer questions about their adoption.

Helen Willis Where were you adopted from? Datong, China. How old were you? I was one year old. Are there connections you have to your background? Every year my family celebrates my “Family Day” on July 20 which is my adoption day. My family also used to host a Chinese New Year celebration during middle school. We invited the whole grade to eat Chinese food and celebrate the New Year.

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We wanted to provide a child with a loving home. In some ways we felt adopting a child would make our lives better - that through raising children you become more giving and open. [Meeting her] was both nervous and exciting. You are sort of wondering ‘will she like us?’ Fortunately, Helen was great right away with both Randy and I. -Mary Turner

Gresha Burton Where were you adopted from? I was adopted from Arkhangelsk, Russia. Are there connections you have to your background? My name is Gresha and my middle name is Polina which are both Russian. Would you ever want to visit your birth country? I don’t think so, maybe in a long time from now I would consider it. Anything else to add? I wish I had a Russian accent or spoke Russian.

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The adoption process took us over three years. When I held her for the first time, I knew that our journey had taken so long because God’s plan was for Gresha to be our daughter. After 10 days in Russia, we flew home on New Year’s Eve, arriving in Kansas City before midnight-surprised and welcomed by friends and family at the airport. -Patti Whitington-Burton

Kristina Kreidler Where were you adopted from? I was adopted from Ukraine, but I often tell people that I’m from Russia because it’s easier to explain. Do you have any siblings and if so are they adopted? I have one other sibling who was adopted from Russia. Would you ever want yo visit your birth country? I don’t want to go back to the country because it has no special meaning to me.

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I chose to adopt because my maternal instinct was strong. My life started when I became a mother the first time and also when Kristina entered our lives. My heart burst with joy. Kristina was so sweet and precious. Any adoption has challenges and one has to take a leap of faith and believe it will all work out. -Susan Kreidler

BY PAULA SWEENY COPY EDITOR

(Photos submitted by students and parents)

Nia Austin How old were you? I was 6 months old when I was adopted. Would you ever want to meet your birth parents? I know my biological parents, and I know nine out of my 10 other siblings on my biological mom’s side of the family. Do you have any siblings and if so are they adopted? Myself and my younger brother were adopted. I’m really close to two of my biological brothers, Tayvon and Ryan. Our first meeting with Nia was unforgettable and magical. She was so beautiful. Her smile was incredible and personality was evident even at six months old. Nia’s strength was evident early on in her life. She was such a loving, happy baby. We knew God wanted us to be a family. One of the best days of our lives. -Obie Austin

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Cara Hiatt Where were you adopted from? Guiping, China. Are there any connections you have you your background? My legal name is “Cara Rose Ling Hiatt” because of my Chinese name, Jin Tang Ling which means beautiful flower. Do you have any siblings and if so are they adopted? I have an older sister also adopted from China, but we aren’t related and are from different areas.

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I had a dream that we were to have beautiful, long, dark haired daughters. The next day I called the adoption agency and the rest is history. When they were placed in our arms we knew that we had become a forever family. There were a lot of happy tears, hugs and smiles. It is a feeling so hard to explain. -Mary Hiatt

Caroline Ehren Where were you adopted from? I was adopted from China when I was two years old. Are there any connections you have to your background? My middle name is Yang, and we do celebrate Chinese New Year and my adoption day but I don’t have a huge cultural connection to China. Would you ever want to visit your birth country? I love traveling, so of course I’d like to go back one day.

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We wanted to adopt girls. We wanted to give our girls opportunities that they never would have in their home country. The Chinese government knew that Mother’s Day in the U.S. is a big deal, so they moved up Adoption Day from Monday to Sunday so that we could meet our daughters on that very special day. -Christy Dorn MAY 2020

SENIORS

Caroline Ehren Loyola Marymount University

Katie Fitzgerald Oklahoma State University

Holly Frey University of Mississippi

Fiona Gowin Haverford College

Moment you want to relive? Going on stage at the Yung Gravy concert. Favorite Sion memory? Once I accidentally got to school late, and in the parking lot I saw my friends getting into someone’s car. They were going to Smoothie King, so I just went with them instead of getting a tardy from McGory. Finals horror story? This year I forgot to exempt my Anatomy final and I was going to die if I had to take it. Luckily, Carmody saved me and let me exempt anyways.

Funniest Sion memory? Freshman year I passed out in the school chapel and was known as “The girl who passed out in the school chapel.” Junior year I passed out during detention and Mr. McGory said, “She must’ve fainted quietly because I didn’t even notice.” Funniest pink slip? I had an uncomfortable amount of pink slips and almost all of them were for being out of uniform. No regrets though. Senior quote? Alexa, queue “Sanctuary.”

Funniest Sion memory? TPing Señora LaFaver’s room with Phoebe. What will you miss most about Sion? Seeing my whole grade everyday. Favorite Sion memory? Watching the class of 2020 Sion Olympics dances. Funniest pink slip? Putting a trash can on Señora LaFaver’s head. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Building relationships with amazing friends.

Funniest Sion memory? Being called out of class because my open locker door “Disrupted the sanctity of the hallway.” Favorite Sion memory? Yearbook switching up my freshman bio with another students. My false bio read “Three sisters whom I did karate with.” That was completely false, but Le Journal still tried to interview me about it. The moment you want to relive? The dances like Prom and Winter Formal.

Iris Evans Marquette University

Tehya Frederick

Favorite Sion memory? Going to my friend’s basketball senior night this year. Which teacher would you take to college and why? Señora Gomez because she can always make me laugh. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Forming life long friendships. What are you planning on majoring in? Something in health sciences. Finals horror story? Not studying nearly enough for Spanish.

What will you miss most about Sion? I will miss seeing my friends. Finals horror story? I studied for the wrong final for three hours. What are you planning on majoring in? Psychology. Funniest Sion memory? Munachi singing at Sion Olympics our freshmen year. Funniest pink slip? For having my phone out when I didn’t have my phone out. Favorite place at Sion? The old debate room.

University of Missouri

Phoebe Fridkin University of Missouri

Caitlin Gura University of Kansas

Bates College

Anna Frerker Benedictine College

Funniest Sion memory? TPing Señora LaFaver’s room with Holly. Favorite Sion memory? Playing field hockey. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? My cheerleading career and how much I have changed over the past four years into a better woman through Sion. Funniest pink slip? Putting an empty trash can on Señora LaFaver’s head. She wrote me one but never turned it in because we were besties.

Funniest pink slip? Talking to the teacher while everyone else was silently working. What teacher would you take to college and why? Mrs. Cox because she is the funniest person ever. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Pushing myself to go out of my comfort zone and learning a lot. Funniest Sion memory? When we did the “Black Beatles” challenge in the gym freshmen year.

FALL 2016

Abby Gahagan

Favorite Sion memory? Being the morning prayer leader on the announcements. What teacher would you bring to college and why? Pino because she would be able to give me great advice and wisdom and help relieve my stress. Favorite place at Sion? The NGS. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Making the varsity cross country team for the first time senior year.

Funniest pink slip? Freshmen year when Mrs. Haghirian pink slipped me when I was checked out of school because she thought I was Natalie Ungashick. What teacher would you take to college with you and why? Casey Engelanyone who doesn’t say Casey Engel is lying. Finals horror story? Junior year I forgot my calculator for my Mid final. Never again.

Kansas State University

Lily Henkle

Favorite Sion memory? Beating STA on senior night. What will you miss most about Sion? Being surrounded by such great, hardworking people. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Making friends that will last forever. Finals Horror Story? Just not knowing any Spanish at all. Funniest Sion memory? Mid’s iconic kickball moment.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

FALL 2018

A new walkway and grotto area was dedicated outside by the sports fields. The area is used for walks, quiet time and reflection. (Photo by Reagan Amato)

The school switched from 11 inch Macbooks to 13 inch Macbooks starting with the orientation of the class of 2021 and transfers. (Photo submitted by Brynna Dow)

FALL 2018 Sion alumna Alicia Kotarba ‘02 kicked off the year as the new President of both the High School and Grade School. (Photo by Allie Dierks)

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Elizabeth Finn

Funniest Sion memory? When Mr. McGory shut the door on a crying girl. What will you miss most about Sion? The girls in my grade. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Working hard everyday. What are you planning on majoring in? Math. Favorite Sion memory? Sion Olympics because our dance is always the best. Funniest pink slip? Never got one.

SENIORS

Rachel Heueisen

Funniest Sion memory? Tripping on the stairs multiple times freshmen year. The moment you want to relive? Going to the last Sion vs. STA basketball game and seeing our team win. Funniest pink slip? The only pink slip I’ve ever gotten is from Mr. McGory for being on my phone as the bell rang for class to be over. What are you planning on majoring in? Biology.

Creighton University

Funniest Sion memory? I fell down the stairs twice in one week freshmen year. What will you miss most about Sion? The atmosphere and the people I’ve met. The moment you want to relive? The first day of senior year and the tailgate. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Expanding my knowledge and growing into a woman I’m proud of. Finals horror story? Quizlet crashed the night before my Emma Hutchin Spanish test and I had nearly Loyola University Chicago 500 words to study.

Zoey Jensen

Funniest Sion memory? When there was a mouse in the classroom. The moment you want to relive? Seeing dance and cheer perform. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Having all my credits done and making amazing friends. What tattoo would you get? Bird on my hand. What are you planning on majoring in? Environmental science conservation.

University of MissouriKansas City

Hannah Sue Kennish

Cara Hiatt University of Kansas

MaryBeth Ismert

University of Kansas

Funniest pink slip? Chewing gum, chewing gum, and chewing gum. Funniest Sion memory? Visiting and talking to Mr. Conaghan. He always made my day happier. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t be a weirdo and awkward. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Making an amazing group of friends and getting into college.

Rockhurst University

Avery Jones University of Iowa

Funniest pink slip? One time freshmen year, Mrs. Haghirian gave Diana Brown and I pink slips for saying the phrase “Bingo Wings” one too many times. Favorite Sion memory? Pouring an obscene amount of nuts on Kennedy Wade’s parking spot. What will you miss most about Sion? The amazing community of girls and teachers. Finals horror story? The freshmen year finals binder.

Funniest Sion memory? Crying during a Mid quiz dressed up as Jimmy from “Blades of Glory” during spirit week. The moment you want to relive? Winning a Krammy for best emotion. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Becoming “that girl who screamed” to any underclassman who went to “Into the Woods.” Finals horror story? Forgetting to do the entire back page of my chemistry final.

Inaya Khan

Maeve Hogg University of Kansas

Reilly Jackoboice

Funniest pink slip? Calling my dad in Lamp’s class. Big mistake. Favorite Sion memory? Junior Ring. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? My academics. Finals horror story? When I got into my Spanish final and I was only able to answer a fourth of it. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mid or Cox. They both just rock and always put me in a good mood.

Favorite Sion memory? Rapping with Munachi in front of the whole school on Field Day. What will you miss most about Sion? Felicia. Funniest pink slip? LaFaver gave me a pink slip for smiling. Finals horror story? I didn’t know how to do a problem on Mid’s final so I just put down my credit card number. Funniest Sion Memory? Durkin’s lunchbox.

Miami University

What will you miss the most about Sion? My teachers, friends and peers. Funniest pink slip? I wouldn’t take off my out of uniform pants. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Becoming myself. Finals horror story? Mixing up the days and studying for the wrong test. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Kram because he would be the thoughts before my dumb actions.

Funniest Sion memory? Mistaking a poncho for a scarf and wearing it to school the whole day. No one noticed...or at least they didn’t say anything to my face. Favorite place at Sion? Debate cave. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? My diploma, aka the ticket to the most stressful stage of my life. Finals horror story? AP Chem...nuff said.

University of Kansas

Dana Kalt

Favorite Sion memory? Eating lunch with my friends everyday. Favorite quarantine activity? Bathing my chickens and painting their nails. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? I am proud of my enthusiasm for learning. Finals horror story? Studying for AP Biology. Funniest pink slip? Wearing orange shoelaces with Phoebe Mullen everyday.

University of Alabama

Sela Kincaid

Funniest pink slip? When Madame Shum walked back to my desk and gave me a pink slip for having my phone out. I was the only one in the whole class that got one, even though everyone else had their phones out. Favorite place at Sion? Long’s room. Ask anyone. I basically live there. What will you miss most about Sion? I will miss the atmosphere. Everyone is so open and accepting.

Bradley University

SUMMER 2019

The freshman hallway and cafeteria bathrooms were completely redone this summer in preparation for the school year. (Photo by Kamryn Rogers)

SPRING 2019

Administration announced the news of a new starting time along with a modified schedule. The senior tailgate started at 8 a.m. instead of 7 a.m. due to the time change. (Photo by Kamryn Rogers)

FALL 2019

The school received an updated look from the orange, green and blue color scheme to grey and purple. The painting took place over Thanksgiving and Fall Break. (Photo by Emma Hutchin)

MAY 2020

SENIORS

An Eye For Design Senior Chesney Meidel explores her interest in graphic design through the Digital Design and Photography program at the Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies. BY MAGGIE MCKINNEY EDITORIAL EDITOR

Looking up at glass windows surrounding the Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies building, senior Chesney Meidel can’t help but to feel at home as she gets out of her car and hustles to class. She knows she does not have to worry about tests or pop-quizzes for her first class like many of her peers do, as Meidel gets to spend her mornings working with what she loves: digital media. “I thought CAPS would be a great opportunity to learn advanced graphic design and photography,” Meidel said, “and to meet some new people.” Meidel participates in a CAPS program called Digital Design and Photography during the first half of her school day. In the class, she learns

how to use photography and graphic design to help companies and organizations with design and advertisement, according to Meidel. “One of the coolest things about CAPS is the client projects. I have worked with a number of different clients on logos, websites and branding,” Meidel said. “All the work we do is free so we can gain experience. But in return, clients use our work publicly so we can form connections in the graphic design world.” Meidel’s interest in graphic design began at a young age. She taught herself basic digital design programs through YouTube tutorials. She knew she wanted to continue to pursue it throughout her academic career. “I’ve been interested in photography and graphic design for a while,” Meidel said. “When I went to high school I knew that those were the electives I wanted to be a part of.” The CAPS program exposed Meidel to a number of situations and experiences regarding digital design. She learned how to build her resume and portfolio, how to have a professional meeting and how to use graphic design applications and photography to build a brand. A large component of the class is building relationships and connections with real-world

clients and gaining exposure, according to Meidel’s CAPS classmate Lily Mahring. “My favorite thing about the program is being able to do real projects with real clients because it helps give us students real life situations,” Mahring said. “It also helps us use our creativity and skills.” In addition to the connections Meidel has made in the world of graphic design, she has also made strong personal connections with her classmates. She and the other students in the program got close very quickly, according to fellow CAPS student Lauryn Garlington. “Honestly, I think we all got close quickly because we shared the same interests because our class was Digital Design and Photography and we loved doing design and taking pictures,” Garlington said. “We also were with each other for three hours of the day.” Although Meidel can no longer participate in the program since the Blue Valley Unified School District shut down all facilities due to COVID-19, she knows she can still continue to learn and develop her skills at home. She is confident that her passion is one that reaches beyond a traditional classroom. “You don’t need a teacher, and you don’t need the nicest equipment to produce good work,” Meidel said. “It just takes time and patience.”

Barbara Mae King

Advice to your freshman self? Don’t be so worried about what others think of you and don’t be so shy. Favorite Sion memory? Golf season every year. Funniest Sion memory? Falling while walking into school. What teacher would you take to college with you and why? Durkin, because she is so nice and would always keep me motivated and see the positive in everything.

University of Kansas

Caroline Knopke

Favorite Sion memory? Sion Olympics. Favorite place at Sion? The NGS. What teacher would you take to college with you and why? Mrs. Cox because she always has the best advice and funniest jokes. Funniest Sion memory? Doing the Slip-N-Slide freshman year into the sand pit. Finals horror story? Quizlet shutting down the night before finals.

Rockhurst University

Felicia Knox University of Alabama

Kristina Kreidler

What will you miss the most about Sion? Reilly. Funniest pink slip? Lamp gave me a pink slip in the lunchroom for wearing pants. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mid because he’s a legend. Finals horror story? Being gone a whole week before finals. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Graduating. MAMA I MADE IT!

Funniest pink slip? Getting a pink slip for talking when I wasn’t even talking. Favorite place at Sion? The NGS. What will you miss the most about Sion? The Sion cookies and study halls. Finals horror story? One time I forgot my old tests for extra credit and I had my friend drive me home and I looked frantically, found them, and we were almost late to our next final.

Kansas State University

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS A compilation of photos taken by senior Chesney Meidel for her Digital Design and Photography program at the Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies (All photos submitted by Chesney Meidel)

16 LE JOURNAL

Avery Kuhls Regis University

Funniest pink slip? Don’t have a funniest one, but I got four detentions my junior year solely because I was in Mr. McGory’s class. Favorite place at Sion? The couch in the commons where I took all my naps. Funniest Sion memory? Senior year math class. Period. What teacher would you take to college with you and why? Mr. Conaghan because he makes me giggle.

SENIORS

Kaitlin Lyman University of Missouri

Claire Maguire Iowa State University

Elyse Makar Colorado State University

Avanni Martin

Favorite Sion Memory? Passing by Lamp in the hallways and him saying “Hello Lyman” like Jerry says to Newman in Seinfeld. The moment you want to relive? All of Kairos 60. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Cox! She has a funny personality and mother-like presence. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Becoming confident in myself and my abilities.

Funniest pink slip? I texted my mom that I wanted chicken for dinner during Mass, and Hilg took my phone and gave me a pink slip. Funniest Sion memory? English class sophomore year. Advice to your freshman self? Stop caring so much about what other people think. Finals Horror Story? I fell asleep during my math final last year, and Mrs. Carmody had to wake me up.

Favorite Sion Memory? Kennedy drawing me cartoons every day in Pre-Calc. Funniest Sion memory? The toenail clippers Hilg had in the front of her room for two weeks sophomore year might have been mine... What you will miss the most about Sion? Philosophy club. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Kram! I just want him to come to class with me and confuse all my professors.

What are you planning on majoring in? Biology What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Cox because she is an awesome human being. The moment you want to relive? Going to State for track. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? My growth as a person. Favorite place at Sion? The NGS.

University of Missouri

Olivia Martin Undecided

Favorite Sion Memory? Junior prom What will you miss most about Sion? I will miss the community of the 2020 class because of how caring and unique everyone is. It feels like a huge family. Finals Horror Story? I forgot my calculator to my winter Mid final. Enough said. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t wear a long dress to winter formal you’re not that cool.

Made for

Music BY AVA STOLTZ PRINT CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Senior Ceresa Munjak-Khoury explores her passion for the arts through the French horn. Just minutes ago she was surrounded by hundreds of students swarming the Rockhurst High School cafeteria. But now, she and her loyal French horn sat alone. She shuffles up to the seat staring at the judges’ backs. She starts her first piece, and then her second and final piece. The judges asked if that was all, surprised she only performed with two pieces, aiming for the lowest tier. “It’s a blind audition. They don’t face you,” senior Ceresa Munjak-Khoury said. “I remember my first audition after I performed the two [trying out for the lowest section] they were like ‘oh is that all.’ They were surprised [I was only going for the lowest group], and that was a nice feeling.” After that first audition, she was hooked. Munjak-Khoury made it to Philharmonic, the second level of the Youth Symphony of Kansas City, and since then has moved up in the rankings of the four different levels. She is currently in the highest level, Symphony group, where she has been for the past two years. “I was excited that I got into a higher group than expected,” Munjak-Khoury said. “My parents were really proud, so that made it even better.” Munjak-Khoury has also been the first chair in the Symphony division, meaning she plays the first parts and is the highest ranked of the French horn players. “It felt really rewarding to be first chair,” Munjak-Khoury said. “I had been in Youth Symphony for so many years, so it’s nice to be first chair. Plus it was my senior year, so that was good as well.” Youth Symphony is a music organization that helps to advance the artistry of each student and create a sense of community in music, according to the Symphony director for Youth Symphony Steven STREETCAR D. Davis. MunjakSYMPHONY Khoury goes to three Pictured left is senior hour practice once a Ceresa Munjak-Khoury week on top of seasonal and sophomore Charles performances where she Wolfe playing carols on displays her passion and the streetcar downtown dedication to her music, during Christmas time. Pictured right, senior according to Davis. Ceresa Munjak-Khoury “You can tell she smiles after playing at loves music and people. the winter choir concert. That is the foundation (All photos submitted by Ceresa Munjak-Khoury)

for passion as long as it’s coupled with a ‘go for it’ attitude, which she brings to her artistry,” Davis said. “Her improvement, from her exposure to the best musicians on both sides of the state line and her personal dedication to the art form have helped her advance even more.” Munjak-Khoury first picked up a French horn to try out for beginners band at her grade school. She grabbed the horn her family already had, and never looked back. “I started playing the French horn in fourth grade because that’s when beginning band started at my school,” Munjak-Khoury said. “I wanted to play the clarinet, but my dad said we had a horn in the attic, so that was the instrument I played.” Munjak-Khoury doesn’t just play the French horn, but is also involved in other musical activities including Sion Drumline, piano and is the President of Tri-M Musical Society. She has piano practice once a week in order to keep up her skills, and she has played at Sion events like the talent show. MunjakKhoury is the Drum Major for the Sion Drumline where she plays the tenor drums and helps choreograph all the routines. “It’s very much part of my everyday life,” Munjak-Khoury said. “I make a point to practice everyday even just for a little, and I’m always working towards something or am getting ready for something so that helps keep me motivated.” By getting involved in all these different organizations, Munjak-Khoury has gained a new confidence in herself and her music, according to her mother, Julie Munjak. Music has made her into the person she is today, according to Munjak. “She has a really good depth that I don’t have. She is more forward thinking and is able to handle the bad in her life [because of her experience in music],” Munjak said. “That’s made me really proud of her to see her excel in a way that’s sort of like ‘wow, I couldn’t have done that.’ I was surprised I could give birth to someone like that.”

MAY 2020

SENIORS

Brooke McKee University of Missouri

Chesney Meidel University of Arizona

Ceresa Munjak-Khoury Washington University in St. Louis

Rose Orrick

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Fernanda Ramirez Rockhurst University

18 LE JOURNAL

Favorite Sion memory? Escaping freshman Spanish everyday and racing my wheelchair down the hallways with Anna Breckenridge. What are you planning on majoring in? Fashion Merchandising. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Sticking with cheer all the way until we got to be the seniors, and then we created our own Rockhurst football performance.

Finals horror story? Freshman year failing all of them because I never really learned how to study. Funniest pink slip? I’ve gotten three all for gum and all in the same week. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? I am really proud of how far my graphic design work has come. Favorite senior tradition? Seniors Rock the House chant. Favorite Sion Memory? Junior Prom.

Funniest pink slip? Never got one cause I’m the best student ever. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mr. McGory for sure. Favorite place at Sion? My parking spot. It’s perfect and close and wide. No place I’d rather be. The moment you want to relive? Rushing to senior Winter Formal from State, getting ready in the bathroom, and then winning Snow Queen. It was a crazy night I’ll never forget.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mid because he is the best coach, teacher and friend I’ve ever had. Favorite Sion memory? During my English class freshman year we went outside and drew chalk. I made a piece with my friends called “the dancing queen.” It was the ugliest thing, but it’s the day that I realized I found my best friends. Favorite place at Sion? The soccer field. Favorite event? Sion vs STA games.

Favorite Sion Memory? Junior Ring because I didn’t order a ring and so when I opened the little black box I expected it to be empty only to find out my mom had put one of her old rings in it so I had my own special Sion ring. Funniest pink slip? I’ve never had one surprisingly. Finals horror story? I got super sick two days before finals and literally could not get out of bed, so I missed all of finals week. Advice to your freshman self? Please learn how to drive.

Rachel McRae University of Kansas

Chloe Meisel

Funniest pink slip? I was so excited to tell Lamp I got a 100% on my geometry test. All he said was, “Rachel Ray that’s a pink slip” because of my out of uniform sweatshirt. Funniest Sion memory? Probably when Mrs. Timson slipped on a tomato and threw her La Croix across the room. Finals horror story? I was the first and only person to finish my Wilcox final at one and a half hours. I have dyslexia. I knew something was not right.

Favorite Sion memory? Daily car talks before school every morning with my friends junior year. Funniest Sion memory? After the NHS induction junior year, a bunch of my friends and I danced in the Sion parking lot for like an hour after everyone else left. Favorite quarantine activity? Houseparty with friends. Funniest pink slip? Never gotten one despite being out of uniform all the time.

University of Kansas

Molly O’Keefe

Funniest Sion memory? Mr. Conaghan’s Holocaust Studies class when he would make fun of Mary Claire everyday. The moment you want to relive? First day of Senior year. Advice to your freshman self? Everything will work itself out. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Maintaining good grades, and still having fun throughout high school.

Emily Rine

Phoebe Mullen

Munachi Okuagu Drake University

Favorite Sion memory? Sion STA game this year. Being a scream team leader at that game with all that energy was indescribable. Finals Horror Story? None, but when I took the SAT the guy sitting in front of me puked on it and they made him finish it on that. It was the first math section. Advice to your freshman self? Be more grateful than you feel you should be and work harder than you think you need to.

Iowa State University

Texas Christian University

Loyola University Chicago

Funniest Sion memory? When I had over 100 eggs in my fridge because the crêpe sale for National French Honor Society kept getting postponed because of snow days. What will you miss most about Sion? The Rats in the Back. If you know, you know. Funniest pink slip? My freshman year Mrs. Murphy gave me a pink slip on my birthday as my “present.” In her defense, I was wearing Christmas socks in October.

Boston University

Miami University

Grace Parrott

Lauren Mead

Finals horror story? Transcendentalism on Mrs. Wilcox’s final sophomore year. The moment you want to relive? When I got to tour the FBI headquarters in KC. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Señora Schendel. She’s like the fun aunt/mom at school. Favorite Sion memory? Getting my ring from Scout Neely and Sophie Hewitt.

Christina Peters Rockhurst University

Funniest Sion Memory? Getting called the Darkside everyday in Ms. Willard’s class freshman year. The moment you want to relive? Freshman year mixers. Advice to your freshman self? Soak every second in you have at Sion, it goes by so fast and there is no time to waste being someone you aren’t. Finals Horror Story? My calculator died in Hilg’s final sophomore year...

Kamryn Rogers Villanova University

Funniest Sion Memory? Spanish I with Señora LaFaver. The moment you want to relive? Chiefs tailgate. Favorite Sion memory? Maisons with Koehler (before we had to merge). What you will miss the most about Sion? The vibes. Sion was my stomping grounds for four years and there isn’t one thing I won’t miss. The faculty. The bathroom outside of the science hall. Karaoke in the lunchroom and so much more.

Favorite Spirit Week Theme? Famous Duos. Funniest pink slip? I was in McGory‘s class, and I forgot that we couldn’t have our phones out. I got mine out for two seconds, and he gave me a pink slip. Finals Horror Story? I had woken up and I was sick, but it was the last day of finals so I showed up late and bombed my Pre-Calc final. What you will miss the most about Sion? The atmosphere. The moment you want to relive? Junior English class.

Funniest Sion Memory? Walking into basketball practice every day freshman year to “Steal Her Man.” Favorite Sion memory? Sion Olympics. New Freezer. Period. The moment you want to relive? Basketball senior night against STA. Funniest pink slip? Never gotten one because I couldn’t face Koehler’s disappointment. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Managing the stress that is my life.

SENIORS

Spinning Full Circle

(Photos submitted by seniors Iris Evans, Helen Willis, Christina Peters and Lily Henkle. Photo illustrations by Kamryn Rogers)

hether it was to location. Willis joined a little less celebrate a friend’s than a year later after quitting her birthday or an lifeguarding job at a local country excuse to knead the club. Seniors Iris Evans, Lily Henkle, Christina Peters complimentary pizza “It was a simple job but fun,” dough they were given Peters said, “and we always went there and Helen Willis have worked together at SPIN! while they anxiously awaited their as kids so it was kind of sentimental Pizza for the past two years. 7-inch circle of heaven, seniors Iris to us.” BY KAMRYN ROGERS Evans, Lily Henkle, Christina Peters, All four agree the best part is the PRINT CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Helen Willis and their other childhood pay. As servers, SPIN! pays them a salary friends constantly found a reason to visit of $4, but with tips, they earn anywhere SPIN! Pizza. Fast forward to high school, they from $48 to $108 in a single four to six hour have now become the servers they once revered shift. Though the pay and the occasional free toting their wood-fired pizzas like medals of honor pizzas are great perks to working at their childhood “You get there. You clock in. Scrape up every last hangout spot, the four also appreciate the life skills minute you can get. Literally don’t clock out until you’re ready they’ve established. to hit the door,” Evans said. “Get your straws, get your gelato lids, get the “You really learn how to deal with difficult people,” Evans said. “I napkins, your apron and you’re ready to roll.” believe everyone should work in the restaurant industry at least once in their As Henkle began her search for a summer job at the end of her lives because it’s hard work.” sophomore year, she learned old family friend Nora Malone ‘17, had just Due to the coronavirus, they have all been laid off until the stay at home started working at SPIN! Pizza and was encouraged by her parents and order is over. But each of them plans to continue to work at the childhood Malone to seek the job. pizza spot for years to come. “It seemed like something that could be fun,” Henkle said. “I’ve always “Working at SPIN!, although hard at times, is the first job I have truly loved SPIN! and I used to walk there to eat.” gained an experience at,” Willis said. “Just by making simple conversations Henkle began working in April and was quickly followed by longtime with my coworker or regular customers makes me feel closer to my friends, Peters and Evans who also lived in close proximity to the Main Street community.”

THEIR FAVORITES

IRIS

H ELE N

SPINACH AND GARLIC ON CAULIFLOWER CRUST

MARGHERITA ON CAULIFLOWER CRUST

RI CH

(Photos used with permission of SPIN! Pizza)

STIN A

CHICKEN AND GOAT CHEESE

LILY

CHICKEN PESTO

MAY 2020

SENIORS

Words of

Advice (Photos by Lifetouch)

“Don’t stress about it. You’ll end up where you were always supposed to be.” - senior Sophia Angrisano

Madison Rogers Creighton University

“It’s stressful but don’t forget you have many resources that can help you with anything you need! The right college will make itself known to you.” - senior Olivia Townsend “Don’t feel the need to apply to Ivy League schools unless you think it would be a good fit. College isn’t about going to top-ranked schools and working nonstop. Find what you enjoy, know your limits, and you’ll find your fit!” - senior Peyton Wade

“Find as many scholarships as you can. They seem like a huge pain but it’s so rewarding to receive scholarships and some of them are SO easy!” - senior Colleen Byrne

Bridget Schumm Boston College

Alessia Serra

University of Colorado Boulder

“Take the time to write your essays because it really does make a difference! Also, think about essay topics that will make you stand out.” - senior Peyton Wiewel

“Stay calm, don’t overcomplicate, and trust your gut. Everything will work out the way it’s supposed to. You will end up where you belong.” - senior Rose Orrick

“Do not expect to know everything. I wanted to go to a big, secular school in the South to avoid the cold and have the “big school experience.” I ended up choosing a small, Jesuit school in the Rocky Mountains and I couldn’t be more excited.” -senior Maya Bair

20 LE JOURNAL

Sam Shively Eckerd College

Kyleigh Smith University of Missouri

What you will miss the most about Sion? The fact that everyone is a genuine mess is very comforting. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? That I made it through the four years through all of the hard times. With all of the personal life stuff going on, I continued to push through and made it happen. That I can say that I found myself and I’m comfortable going to college because I know how to handle anything thrown at me.

Funniest pink slip? Sophomore year I was getting a drink of water when I started choking. I got a pink slip for “being disruptive in the halls.” Don’t worry, I’m fine. Funniest Sion memory? My LEGENDARY wipeout in front of the whole school as Kelly Timson. Advice to your freshman self? If you continue to stress out about everything the way you do right now, you are going to have a heart attack at age 25. Chill out.

Favorite Sion memory? Senior sleepover thing (forgot what it was called) where we got to open our freshman year letters. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Ms. Amy, as we are both so passionate about the same things. Why did you choose your college? Location, (Colorado is my favorite place) and wide availability of majors I had interest in. What you will miss the most about Sion? My friends, 100%

Funniest Sion memory? During my photography class, a couple other girls and I got stuck in the darkroom because we couldn’t find the light switch or the door and Penny Selle had to come to help us out. Finals horror story? I forgot a pencil and a calculator for my math final and went crying to Lamp to see if he had an extra. He made me take off both my shoes to borrow his calculator. What tattoo would you get? Grandma’s handwriting or an elephant.

Favorite Sion memory? Messing with McGory 24/7 in the hall. I love singing hello to him. Finals horror story? I did have a proctor this year ask questions about psychology while we took the final. She would comment about how awesome the teacher is or what excerpt psychology is. Very odd. The moment you want to relive? My first day at Sion, I don’t want to leave.

Sophie Salti

Funniest Sion memory? When every teacher thought Sophia Angrisano and I were the same person for two years straight. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Sellmeyer, so she can make sure I show up to my morning classes. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Getting an A in AP Bio one out of four quarters.

University of Kansas

Maya Scott

Favorite Sion memory? Traveling to D.C. for Debate Nationals. The moment you want to relive? Freshman year, senior-freshman field day. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Just how much I’ve grown out of my shell and into the confident young woman I am today.

Erika Sesler

Funniest Sion memory? Getting teachers to hit the whoa for a Le Journal video. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mid because I have to say good morning to him every morning. The moment you want to relive? The first time I experienced being a state champ on Dance Team. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Now everyone knows that I’m gluten-free.

Prairie View A&M University

University of Missouri

Libby Slaymaker University of Arkansas

Ava Stoltz Kansas State University

Favorite Sion memory? Performing at pep assemblies with Dance Team. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mrs. Durkin, she is so positive and supportive. Finals horror story? Overslept my history final. Advice to your freshman self? Branch out, hang out with people other than your grade school friends. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Four-time state champion in dance.

Funniest pink slip? I got one from McGory for not tucking in my shirt, but I argued with him about it since I had half my shirt tucked in. So in theory, I only deserved half a pink slip - still got full one. What you will miss the most about Sion? My people—my friends, my staff, my teachers. They have made me who I am today. The moment you want to relive? Junior year — car chats and having a dance party with my friend group after NHS induction.

SENIORS

Paula Sweeny

Funniest Sion memory? Gresha pulling a dreadlock out of her hair, naming it Pepe, and carrying it around in her pencil bag. Finals horror story? Coming back from brain surgery a week before finals and having to take all of them. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Everything we’ve done on Stuco! Favorite Sion memory? Sion Olympics. Every. Year.

St. Edward’s University

Anna Switzer University of Arkansas

Funniest Sion memory? Timson slipping and falling completely on her back during chemistry. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? The friendships, helping dance make it to its 11th consecutive State win, breaking the school 100m breast record twice. Finals Horror Story? All I did to study for APUSH was watch the YouTube video “The Entire History of the World” and called it good.

University of Oklahoma

Favorite Sion memory? Junior year Latin class. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Bray, he’s a walking Google. The moment you want to relive? Being elected as president of Allied Club. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t take no for an answer. Funniest Sion memory? Junior year Latin class.

Hannah Triplett Flagler College

Nina Trouve Brown University

Senior Ava Grace Vermillion auditioned for dance programs across the nation for her college career. BY ABBIE SINOW REPORTER

Favorite Sion memory? Just swim team as a whole like all four years have been amazing. I can’t just say one memory. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Kram. No explanation needed. The moment you want to relive? Re-enacting “Their Eyes Were Watching God” at State sophomore year. I was the mule.

Olivia Townsend

Gotta Gotta DANCE DANCE

Funniest Sion Memory? Mid slipping while playing kickball in the gym, and then hunting down the security footage. What you will miss most about Sion? All my school friends and the weird stuff we talk about. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mid, I need the bad jokes to keep me sane and motivation to stay in shape. Funniest pink slip? I pulled my phone out in Lamp’s class with one minute left.

She walked into the large dance room full of dancers from all over the United States, though she was the only student from Kansas. The dancers wore an array of different colored clothing with the same essentials: a leotard and tights. After submitting a video to the performing arts program, she was invited to the in-person audition where she was interviewed and auditioned individually in front of a single judge. As she felt their eyes on her and her stomach churning, she performed the routine she was taught only a few hours earlier and walked out of the audition feeling confident and collected. When senior Ava Grace Vermillion stepped out on the campus, she knew this was the place for her. The decision between Pace University in New York and Chapman in California now had an easy answer, as Chapman just felt right with a more college-like feel and people she already knew in the dance program. Vermillion was accepted to the dance program at Chapman University March 24 after weeks of anticipation for the results. “I heard about Chapman’s program through my friend,” Vermillion said. “She really likes the program, and when I went to audition I really liked it.” Vermillion’s original plan was to try out for dance programs at 12 schools she had already been accepted to. She traveled to five of those schools including New York University, Pace University, and Marymount University which are all located in New York. She auditioned for Chapman located in California, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, whose auditions were held in Chicago. “You can try out online or in person,” Vermillion said. “You have a better chance if you travel there to try out, though.” Between these tryouts, Vermillion also participated in dance classes at her studio, as well as with the dance team. She would miss a CHAPMAN BOUND In a post on Instagram March 31, senior Ava Grace Vermillion celebrated her acceptance into Chapman University, noting her thankfulness for her family, friends, and dance teachers. (Photo submitted by Ava Grace Vermillion)

LEAN ON ME Senior Ava Grace Vermillion danced alongside sophomore Claire Jandric at a competition last spring. (Photo submitted by Ava Grace Vermillion.)

few classes or practices, but flew back before her Sunday obligations as much as she could, according to Vermillion. “I just got tired of auditioning,” Vermillion said. “I did online auditions for a couple more of the schools, but I ended up canceling the rest.” Pace University and Chapman University were Vermillion’s number one schools, but Chapman had a more “normal” campus than Pace, which is why she chose it, according to Vermillion. She plans to major in commercial dance at Chapman University, hoping to be a dancer for television commercials, a back up dancer, or a dancer in other forms of entertainment. “I’ve been dancing since I was three, but my life has kind of revolved around dance since I was about 10,” Vermillion said. “It’s what I’m really passionate about, and I don’t think people realize all the things you can do with a dance major.” Vermillion is determined, diligent and positive, according to dance teacher Marlee Bailey. Bailey is the ballet and modern dance teacher at Perception Dance, the studio that Vermillion transferred to freshman year. “Ava is a really hard worker, no matter what she does,” Bailey said. “She has dedication in the classroom that’s like no other.” Junior Kailtyn Quinn dances with Vermillion in the same group at Perception Dance as well as the Sion dance team. Vermillion is determined and makes things happen once she sets her mind to something, according to Quinn. “Ava is one of the most hardworking people I know,” Quinn said. “She isn’t afraid to try new things, and I think that will help her so much at Chapman.” MAY 2020

SENIORS

Senior Transformations Four seniors submit transformations from their freshman year to their senior year. BY CALLIE CAMERON A&E EDITOR

HANNAH SUE KENNISH Ava Grace Vermillion Chapman University

AVANNI MARTIN

Kennedy Wade University of Kansas

ALESSIA SERRA

Brooke Walker

Peyton Wiewel

NORA WIER

Helen Willis Purdue University

Stephanie Vince

Advice to your freshman self? Stop sticking your tongue out, you are not cute. Finals Horror Story? I Showed up to the AP Calc final without a calculator, but luckily found one five minutes before it started. Favorite Sion memory? Joining student council and getting another family. What will you miss the most about Sion? The wonderful people that fill the halls.

University of Notre Dame

Favorite place at Sion? Mrs. Long’s room. Funniest Sion memory? The time Wilcox asked me in front of the entire class if I was “seriously playing Minecraft in her class again?” What will you miss the most about Sion? Going to the same school as my sister and getting to take pictures of and see all the shows she’s in. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Getting through 12 issues of Le Journal.

Why did you choose your college? The locationChicago. Favorite Sion memory? Getting to lead a Kairos! I love my K61 crew with my whole heart. What are you most proud of accomplishing the past four years? I stopped living to impress others and started living for myself. I never want to go back. Favorite place at Sion? Mulkey’s room. The music room. All of my best Peyton Wade memories have been made Loyola University Chicago in that room.

What you’ll miss the most about Sion? Walking around the halls and knowing every face. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Kram 100%. He would know how to get me out of jail and probably most of my tests too. Funniest Pink Slip? Eating a singular grape in McGory’s class, and he waited until I bit down to scream across the room, “What are you eating?”

Favorite senior tradition? Seniors rock the house. What are you planning on majoring in? Technical theatre with an emphasis in sound design and general history. What will you miss the most about Sion? Basically being Jason’s secretary. Funniest Sion memory? Mulkey taking us to Kansas Speedway on accident. Favorite place to check out lunch? Chipotle.

Missouri State University

Pepperdine University

22 LE JOURNAL

What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Señora Gomez. She has been my bestie and biggest hype woman for the past four years Favorite quarantine activity? Crying over how my senior year was ruined. What are you planning on majoring in? Dance. Advice to your freshman self? Be more confident and take risks. Favorite moment you want to relive? Winter Formal junior year.

Nora Weir Belmont University

What are you planning on majoring in? Health Science. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Having the courage to transfer to Sion which became one of the best decisions of my life. The moment you want to relive? Senior tailgate on the first day of school. What will you miss most about Sion? I’ll definitely miss how uplifting and encouraging everyone is, and I’ll also miss not having to think about what I wear every day!

Funniest Sion memory? Our random Scholar Bowl meetings in the morning where Mr. McGory would roast all six of us for our outrageous answers. Favorite place at Sion? Purple couch outside of the Sion Shoppe (but only if the pillows are there). What will you miss most about Sion? The community filled with my best friends and supportive teachers who changed my worldview.

Meg Wilkerson

What are you planning on majoring in? Interior design. Advice to your freshman self? Open up and become friends with everyone! Because at the end of it you want to feel like you’re the class of Sion as a whole and not just specific people. What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years? Making friendships with every single girl in my grade that I will cherish forever.

University of Kansas

Ally Wolfe Kansas State University

Advice you would give to underclassmen about the application process for colleges? Start early. Funniest pink slip? Forgetting my scissors in Stuart’s class. What teacher would you take with you to college and why? Mr. Conaghan because he gives great advice. The moment you want to relive? The last half of my senior year.

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Maintaining a healthy consistent sleep schedule is key to academic success in college. It is recommended by the National Sleep Foundation that young adults get between seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Schedule study times and socialization around these vital hours.

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Prioritize and Organize

Balancing between academics, social events and extracurriculars can get overwhelming fast. Before leaving for school, purchase a planner to organize and prioritize time. Choose from daily, weekly or monthly academic planners or go the creative route and create your own bullet journal.

Optimize Your Storage

Moving into college dorms can be a big transition. To optimize your space, try different methods of storage. Loft your bed to store suitcases, bins and shelves underneath. Test out a hanging laundry bag that goes in the closet. Also, invest in both a bathroom and bed caddy.

Locate Available Student Resources

Most colleges offer a wide range of services available to students. Whether it’s tutoring opportunities, office hours, campus therapists or academic advisors, these tools are meant to be used. Prior to your arrival in August, put together a running list of all the people and places available to offer assistance.

Maintain Nutrition and Fitness

Keeping a healthy lifestyle is essential in mental health and academic performance. Maintain a regular diet and cut out on sugary foods as much as possible. Create a schedule for exercise; aim for at least three times a week. Check out your school’s recreation center to see if they offer free workout classes.

Maintain Regular Sleep Schedule

COLLEGE 101 Entering freshman year of college is both exciting and scary. With new experiences come new challenges. Here are 12 tips to guarantee success for first-year students in their academic, social and dorm life. STORY AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY MALEAH DOWNTON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Create a Study Zone

Establishing productive study habits early on will lead to academic success in the long run. Find ideal places to study, whether it be the library, a study room, the learning center or a coffee shop. By all means, avoid studying in bed. While studying, implement breaks into your schedule. Find your favorite Spotify playlist for concentration and turn your phone on Do Not Disturb to keep focus.

Find Time for Rest and Relaxation

Stress is a given in any scenario. However, to take care of yourself and your mental health it is essential that you work to properly manage stress and anxiety. While away at school, find time for rest and relaxation. Whether you like to listen to music or take a nap, find time to do the small things you enjoy. In the fast-paced life of a college student, these things can often slip in between the cracks.

Explore School’s Extracurriculars

There are so many ways to get involved in college. Check out your school’s club fair and join organizations that spark your interest. Clubs and extracurriculars are a great way to open yourself up to make new friends and connections. Whether it be through an activism club, a sorority or even a baking club, the connections built early on will prove valuable.

Showcase Your School Spirit

One of the most important aspects of your college experience is the memories you make. Remember to have fun. Join in on school spirit. Go to the games, wear your school colors and find the fun in school traditions. The college you choose will be your home for the next four years. When you’re there be sure to offer your support.

Take Adulting Seriously

Beginning your life in college means taking on increased responsibility. It’s time to hold yourself accountable. As an adult, you must act responsibly in all that you do. Whether it’s your academics, finances or your recreational activities. Be mature and take initiative.

Customize Your Dorm

To make your new dorm feel like home, decorate it to showcase your personality. Hang up lights, add pictures and posters, lay down a fuzzy rug or practice interior design with a do-it-yourself project. Have fun with it and utilize wall space for any art or decorations. Your dorm should be a comfortable and happy place for you to study and relax.

Keep in Touch with Home

Homesickness is real. To alleviate these feelings, stay connected with family and friends. Set an alarm every week to call your parents, chat with friends via video chat and schedule visits home ahead of time. You can even go as far as FaceTiming your pets. With this transition, missing home is normal. MAY 2020

SENIORS

niioorr sseen

STATS STATS

Top Four Lunch Checkout Destinations:

Chik-Fil-A

Panera Bread

Chipotle

913 Nutrition

(according to a poll of all 99 seniors)

BY FEATURES EDITOR AVERY BRUNDIGE AND NEWS EDITOR MADELINE HAMMETT

Which was your favorite year of high school? 55% Senior Year 27% Junior Year 13% Sophomore Year

Do you plan on joining a sorority? 51%

22%

27%

5% Freshman Year

YES MAYBE

Top 3 Spirit Week Themes:

How many colleges did you apply to?

Generation Day

Goth/Emo

Did you attend public or private middle school? 73% private

24%

6+ colleges

20%

5 colleges

16%

4 colleges

Do you prefer the ACT or the SAT? 84% ACT

Area 51

49 seniors live in Kansas

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50 seniors live in Missouri

40%

less than 3 colleges

98% liked the pink senior polos

SENIORS

Are you going to a private college or public college? 36 Private

Do you plan on playing intramural sports in college?

63 Public

Unique Majors Seven seniors have chosen to go into seven out of the ordinary majors for very different reasons. ILLUSTRATIONS BY NEWS EDITOR MADELINE HAMMETT

Criminal Psychology

28 said Yes

28 said Maybe 84% prefer the old Sion cookies to the new ones

46% use the quarter zips

“I’m fascinated by human behavior especially when it’s abnormal, like criminal acts. I think that the first step to being able to prevent people from doing terrible things is to understand why they would commit crimes in the first place.” -senior Lauren Mead

Criminology and Justice Law “I am hoping to double major in this along with psychology or biology. These combine my passions of learning, contributions to the community, and developing a career within the medical and law forces.” -senior Avery Jones

43%No Dance

How many skirts do you have?

Do you know the words to the school song?

41 seniors have 3 or more skirts

56% YES

37 seniors have 2 skirts

44%

21 seniors have 1 skirt

Common Majors:

“I have been dancing all my life and want to continue it as my career. My dance teacher was also a dance major and is now a performer for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.” -senior Ava Grace Vermillion

Dentistry “I want to become a pediatric Dentist. I chose this because I want to be able to serve the present and future oral health needs early on and because I have always loved helping kids. I truly belive I van help people save their teeth by taking better care of their oral health” -senior Dennise Carmona

Fashion Merchandising “I want to major in this because it shows the business and inner-workings behind the fashion industry. I have taught myself many things about design, ever since I was little my dream has been to become a fashion designer.” -senior Brooke McKee

Marine Animal Behavior

14% psychology

14% business

“I think its so interesting how marine animals interact in the wild. I want to go into training with a rescue rehab release program so I can help the world in some way by getting hurt marine animals back into the wild.” -senior Sam Shively

Technical Theatre (sound design)

7% biology

6% marketing

5% engineering

“I’ve been involved in theatre for all four years of high school and my work with sound design truly is my passion and there is no better place to learn sound design than in the music city in Nashville.” -senior Nora Weir MAY 2020

SENIORS

GRAD GUIDE

As the class of 2020 heads off to college, here’s a guide to all things college, graduation parties and life after school. ILLUSTRATIONS AND DESIGN BY JENNA BARACKMAN MANAGING WEB EDITOR

the best

GRAD GIFTS college memorabilia for their college of choice next year

something homemade: a scrapbook full of memories from high school

advice from

ALUMNAE “Don’t underestimate the value of doing little things with care and attention. Small acts indicate strengths and areas of growth.”

“Get involved any chance you get. You never know what will lead you to your best friends or a new, lifelong passion.

“Transitions are always challenging but yield incredible growth. The best is yet to come. You have everything you need to succeed.”

-TAYLOR HERSH, ‘08

-KELLY NUGENT, ‘18

-ANNIE-MARIE ALBRACHT, ‘10

“Make time for yourself and find ways to relax. Alone time is essential and don’t forget the value of it in college.”

“Keep a physical planner instead of just Google Calender alone. Trust me, a physical planner will make you stress less.”

-MOLLY WAGNER, ‘19

-LENA KINCAID, ‘15

“Early in your college journey, sit down and make a list of your passions. You may not yet know where your career will take you, but you can consult this list every time.” -KATHERINE LOVE, ‘10

how to meet

NEW FRIENDS gift cards to local restaurants in their college town

03 04

Besides your Get out of your A midnight snack, roommate, the dorm for a bite to make a Tik Tok, people on your eat or a work out. watch a TV show; dorm floor are Believe it or not, whatever it is, even easy to hang out it’s much easier to if it’s not what with in close living make friends when you’re used to, say proximity. Be a leaving your room. yes when invited. friendly neighbor!

a lanyard with their university’s colors

MEET YOUR FLOOR

GO OUT

SAY YES

Clubs and Greek life are some of the best ways to meet a lot of new people with common interests. Try everything you can.

JOIN IT

Flying Solo Meet some of the seniors attending out-of-state colleges without any other Sion ‘20 grads. (All photos submitted by those pictured)

CAROLINE BOESSEN SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY

26 LE JOURNAL

STEPHANIE VINCE UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

PHOEBE MULLEN BOSTON UNIVERSITY

EMILY RINE TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

SENIORS

senior

MEMORIES

Seniors Gracie Dorman, Mary Claire Dunagan and Katie Dykeman share their favorite memories of high school.

how to be a good

ROOMMATE

GET TO KNOW HER

“

gracie DORMAN

mary claire DUNAGAN

My favorite memory was when Ms. Watts took my creative writing class to a writing workshop downtown in one of the districts. My favorite part of the field trip was going on the street car and us all just casually talking in that moment without school. It was a really fun day.

The most fun memory I have was laughing every day with Felicia Knox and Christina Peters in Women’s Health. The best day in that class was by far when we were roasting pumpkin seeds. We couldn’t stop laughing for some reason.

It can be awkward to try to build a friendship with a stranger. Try to plan to visit the dining hall together or other activities around campus to break the ice.

“

katie DYKEMAN

The best memory I have of high school was the excitement that I and everyone else had during the Junior Ring ceremony and how happy we were to finally have them. My sister also surprised me at the ceremony, making it the perfect night.

Make sure your roommate isn’t the only one cleaning and paying. Even if you’d prefer not, it’s better for the relationship to just wipe down a counter top.

3. RESPECT HER PRIVACY This may seem obvious, but never touch your roommates’ things or enter their space without discussing with them first to ensure a level of privacy.

the best websites for

DORM DECOR

SET BOUNDARIES

URBAN OUTFITTERS

DORMIFY

Though a little overpriced, Urban Outfitters sells hundreds of cute, trendy tapestries for your room.

Dormify makes storage chic with its cute and affordable items to make sure your room stays neat.

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DO YOUR PART

* * * *

Though it might be awkward to set ground rules when first meeting, setting boundaries in the beginning makes sure both of you are on the same page.

5. BE OPEN AND HONEST

SHEIN

AMAZON

Shein has tons of cute and colorful bedding options to choose from, all at a very low price, so you’ll be sure to find your dream bedding here.

Amazon not only offers fast delivery but has a wide variety of choices for dorm room accessories, including cute calendars.

* * * * *

PEYTON WIEWEL

NINA TROUVÉ

FIONA GOWIN

PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY

BROWN UNIVERSITY

HAVERFORD COLLEGE

ELYSE MAKAR COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

If something is bothering you, it is best to tell her outright instead of being passiveaggressive or avoiding the issue. Be direct with your roommate when frustrated.

NORA WEIR BELMONT UNIVERSITY

MAY 2020

Dear Dear DearSeniors ... Seniors ...

photos submitted by class of 2020

MAY 2020

What a wild ride it has been. Although your journey has ended shorter than expected, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose hope. A new journey is upon you and the future is bright. Thank you for letting us capture your class the past four years. Keep your heads held high and GO, FIGHT, WIN. Le Journal 2019-2020