Ten exceptional seniors get their own feature films after four years at PRHS pg. 05
Graduating seniors share their plans for their own motion pictures pg. 20-21
Class of 2022’s top athletes awarded gold, silver, and bronze rankings pg. 36
From maniacal monkeys to brokenhearted ballads, PRHS drama students kept audience members on the edge of their seats during the 2022 Advanced Drama Showcase May 18, 2022.
The showcase of 18 numbers was made up of 11 students from drama teacher Marcy Goodnow’s Acting III class, and 11 students from Goodnow’s Acting IV class. PRHS Drama Club Officers: Cameron Leclair (12), Amani Arellano (11), Dylan Saunders (12), Molli Nicolds (12), and Ella Gomez (11) hosted the event, introducing each number as they were getting ready to perform.
“It feels great to show the community things we’ve worked on throughout the year; whether it’s running around like a monkey, or singing an emotional song, or truly anything in between,” said host and performer Amani Arellano. “This was a wonderful night with such a loving audience, and I’m so thankful I get these opportunities through PHTC.”
Nine graduating seniors were part of the showcase meaning that these performances were one of their last as PRHS drama students. The seniors, and drama students of every class will enjoy a final hurrah at the upcoming “Phony Tony Awards” on June 9. The awards ceremony acts as a drama senior-night, and will include awards to commemorate students on their successes during the year, as well as performances by students.
A wide range of talent and emotion was presented in the 18 acts. Following an opening number of “Life’s A Happy Song” from The
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Muppets, students performed in musical theater numbers, and original pantomimes and scenes.
“It was really awesome to see our class all come together and perform a little bit of everything,” said senior Cameron Leclair, who recently directed Acting I One-Act “Two-Sided”. “As a senior, it was a great opportunity for some of my last moments on stage with my friends.”
One of the acts called “The I Love You Song” from the musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee presented the ideas of disconnection between parents and their children. Senior Danny Perez and sophomore Danika Nutile acted as the parents in the emotional ballad.
“Performing “I Love You Song” was very challenging. We had to put ourselves in a position we have never experienced firsthand and we transformed into these characters through lots of research and practice,” said Nutile.
Many of the actors expressed gratitude to even have the ability to perform in front of a live audience, especially given that this is one of the last opportunities for the graduating performers.
Most of the students that participated have been involved with Paso High Theater Company for several years. The performers shared their love for the program and the outlet that it has been for them throughout highschool.
“The theater program has meant everything to me because anyone can do it. I’m happy I get to be on stage with people who are so talented,” Danny Perez said.
Guest speaker Julie Larrivee ran our PRHS Challenge Day. She has been an activities director for 13 years and has run multiple different events including Challenge Day, Breaking Down the Walls, and Link Crew. Larrivee drove over two hours to host this event, but she enjoys the long days and long drives.
“... Challenge day, it is so rewarding to me. It’s the greatest feeling to give to someone a great day to feel better. It’s almost like I’m delivering flowers or delivering a free pizza to someone. To see that joy, it’s so worth it,” said Larrivee.
The early 8:30 morning started off with a few short games with the entire group to get everyone comfortable. After the games everyone was split into several small groups and everyone did a number of icebreaker activities and games including an egg drop. Larrivee explained that splitting everyone into small groups helps to make interacting and learning about each other easier.
One of the students favorite parts of
the experience was the trash bag fashion show where students showed off their progressive trash bag outfits. The students also did a shoulder tap activity where they anonymously gave compliments to each other through a simple shoulder tap. The last event of the day was the open mic, where students got to address the entire group with whatever they want, advice, something they learned, or just a joke if they wanted.
Challenge day, it is so rewarding to me. It’s the greatest feeling to give to someone a great day to feel better.
JULIE LARRIVEE
The Paso Robles Bearcat stunt team celebrated the Mountain League championship for the fifth year in a row, winning the last league game of the season against the San Luis Obispo Tigers on Wednesday, May 4 2022. The girls came away with a score of 4-20–an almost perfect score– with the only deduction in jumps and tumbling routine five. In order to secure the championship they had been anticipating all season, the Bearcats needed this win.
The ladies started the game with high energy to maintain the momentum of their winning streak. The game consisted of 4 quarters, Partner Stunts, Pyramids and Tosses, Jumps and Tumbling, and Quarter 4 (which plays all three from the previous quarters). At halftime, the girls the score was 1-8, with the Tigers tying in the previous quarter on Pyramids and Tosses Level 2. They hoped to continue the drive that they had in the first half.
by Serenity Wulfing, Social Media Director
When the final quarter approached the ladies only needed to gain two more points in order to fully win the game. For the first part of the quarter the ladies tied on two of the three points and fully won the last one, with only three points available, meaning the Tigers could still come back. The next part of the quarter was played fierce with Routine 3 being called. The Bearcats secured the points needed to win the game. The final part of quarter 4 was Routine 4 which gave them the final score of 4-20.
by Malia Gaviola, Editor in Chief
Mountain League Track Finals will take place this Thursday, May 5, 2022 at Paso Robles High School. This meet will be the second part of the league finals event for track and field. Last Thursday, April 28, 2022, over 50 track and field athletes competed in the prelim league track meet with the goal to qualify for league finals. (Note: Some athletes had previously qualified by receiving a CIF qualifying mark previously in the season) Some notable events and athletes for this Thursday are as follows:
Varsity Girl’s 1600 and 3200: PRHS has three qualifying athletes sophomore Sadie Wagner, junior Sydney Moore, and senior standout Charlotte Castelli, who currently holds the meet record set in 2019 at 5 minutes and 14 seconds. Castelli is currently in second place in the Central Coast Athletic Conference. Additionally both Castelli and Moore have qualified to run in the 3200m (2 mile). Varsity Girl’s Sprints 100m and 200m: Junior Lucy Pritchard qualified for both events in 4th and 6th place respectively. Lucy Pritchard also will be competing in Varsity girls Long Jump. Varsity Girl’s Pole Vault: Sophomore Peyton Bedrosian, currently
ranked number one going into the meet in the Central Coast Athletic Conference. She will also compete in long jump for the Bearcats.
On the boy’s side there were many athletes competing for qualification in the Mountain League finals. In the boy’s 1600 senior Cameron LeClair led the way placing 9th at the preliminary meet, (he had previously qualified for finals by time). Leclair also qualified for the Boy’s 3200m race and 800m race. Leclair will be joined by teammate junior Tristin Poggi in the 800m, as he qualified with a 9th Place at the Prelim Meet last week.
Every practice, every game, and every hour dedicated to softball led up to this moment where the Bearcat varsity softball team placed first in the Mountain League on Friday, May 13, 2022, shutting out the Atascadero Greyhounds with a final score of 6-0 on their Senior Night.
The outcome of the League title was uncertain until after five minutes following their win when Arroyo Grande lost and gave up the title.
It was a high stake game as Bearcats had lost to the Greyhounds two days prior, 2-1 in the ninth inning. When the game was completed, they were still tied with Arroyo Grande for the league champion title. There was a game that same evening against Templeton Eagles and Arroyo Grande Eagles and if Templeton beat AG then it would put Paso in first for the league. Minutes after the game, it was announced that Templeton had beaten AG and that the Bearcats placed first.
The five seniors celebrating Senior Night included catcher Emma Phillips, pitcher Jaiden Ralston, second baseman Stacey Ruiz, first baseman Andie Dizon, and foreign exchange student Rana Takada
After four years playing on PRHS’s Barnhart field, hours and hours of practice, 16 seniors stepped onto the field May 11 with their families, celebrating their last home game as a Bearcats against the Righetti Warriors.
In the bottom of the 7th inning, the Bearcats were tied with the Warriors 2-2 and could not score, so the game went to extra innings. In the top of the 8th the Warriors were unable to score, so the Bearcats got one last chance.
In the bottom of the 8th with two out Bryson Hoier came up to bat and walked, then stole second base. With two outs Brandon Bonham hit a single to right, while Hoier sprinted
around third, sweat dripping down his face and slid into home headfirst to win the game. The Bearcats dugout cleared and chased after Bonham to celebrate their 3-2 win.
We’ve worked so hard up until these final moments and we plan on working harder for CIF and State. It’s the Bearcat love within our team that keeps us going JOSELLYN RUIZ, 10SITTING THE BATTER DOWN (PRHS) : In her last home game, Senior Jaiden Ralston strikes out the last batter to win the game. Jaiden will continue to play softball at the University of Iowa. BYE BYE WARRIORS (PRHS) : The team chased after Senior Brandon Bonham after he hit a walk off to send the Righetti Warriors home. The Bearcats went on to beat the Warriors again the next Friday. JUMPING TO VICTORY (PRHS) : In the long jump, Freshman Brandon England jumps into the sand pit at the Thursday May 5, 2022 track meet. Design byBraydonHoier
The emotions were mixed. Happy to be on the field with all my buddies, but sad that it was going to be our last game as a team
CHRISTIAN ROWLEY, 12
As the curtains are nearly closed on our stage, it’s time to reflect on the last four years of our high school career before we take our final bows. We have made great strides as the class of 2022. We’ve been through it all: pandemics, controversy on campus, and economic declines. But despite the challenges, we have shown perseverance, even at times shining with bravery and virtue. We show that when darkness falls on the Class of 2022 we can find a light, no matter how dim.
Four years ago many of us stepped onto the Paso Robles High School campus for the first time not knowing what insanity lied ahead -- and soon we will be taking our last steps. We never would have guessed what our four years would be like. Our staff wanted to take a moment to reflect.
Due to a global pandemic, school abruptly ended our sophomore year, forcing us to adapt to online education, and isolate ourselves from our friends and loved ones. After a year and a half of distance learning, we finally re-entered Bearcat Country once again, greeting it with passions for change. Many events were planned and executed on campus: forums, protests, broken records, awards, and transformations of how we think about education.
Though the memories formed on campus will forever linger close to our hearts, we also ask
students to look forward. We are about to go out into the real world. We must cultivate the skills we’ve learned and plow forward to make a path for ourselves. Many of us will go to college, find jobs, and have kids. That’s what makes our next move so important. Life in our community has improved tremendously thanks to the bravery and hard work of a number of students who chose to fight for what they believe in, but the world is a much bigger beast. Yet our final weeks of school grappled with one of the greatest tragedies of the decade: the unthinkable events that befell Robb Elementary School on May 24 in which 19 elementary school kids, and 2 teachers lost their lives. Calling it a tragedy might actually be a disservice to the 21 families that lost their loved ones. It was a horror, one that is all too often seen plaguing headlines across the country. We will not put up with this any longer. It is our duty and responsibility to push through the evils in our nation and world by using the same bravery and virtue we have applied in the last four years at PRHS. We must strive for a better world, a better tomorrow. One day our kids might walk these halls. One day our kids will step out into the world on their own. The future generation. Let’s hope we can make it just a little bit better before they get here.
Malia Gaviola
Rayvin Wulfing
Ashley Paulsen
Directors
TJ Rothbauer News
Ashley Paulsen Sports
Serentiy Wulfing Social Media
Malia Gaviola In-depth
Rayvin Wulfing In-depth
Editors
Kalani Gaviola Op/Ed
Liliana Voorheis World
Zoey Rainey People
Miguel Muniz Poli-Sci
Kalista Peterson Health
Emily Rogers PopCulture
Reily Lowry Sports
Asusena Uribe Carmesi
Emily Neri Carmesi
Elise Mathers News
Sienna Ramos
Chris Cisneros
Braydon Hoier
Cadence Eastep
Brooklynn Healy
Photography
Connor Rocha Director
Rogelio Molina
Kayla Degnan
Web
Bricen Chitty Director
Michelle Rosas
Maicah Cabello Director
Jocelyn Lopez
Adviser
Jeff Mount Website www.crimsonnewsmagazine.org
Email crimsonnewsmagazine@ gmail.com
Crimson, an open forum for the exchange of student ideas, is an independently funded newsmagazine produced by the journalism class at Paso Robles High School. Crimson reflects the majority opinion of the staff and does not necessarily reflect the views of Paso Robles High School, its faculty, administration, or students. All stories, graphics, typesetting, and layouts are completed by Paso Robles High School students. We are happy to talk with you further about our content, subscriptions in U.S. Mail, and advertising on our pages.
—Crimson Staff
the cover (left): The iconic movie, “High School Musical”
cover of Crimson’s annual Senio Issue. In the 3 movie franchise, a group of highschoolers experience it all, from juggling personal lives with school and extracurriculars, to teenage romances, and trying to figure out plans after high school. The Class of 2022 has grown up watching the movies, listening to the music, and now we can say we have lived the experience. “High School Musical” is near and dear to our hearts. However the experiences and memories formed in the halls of PRHS will leave the greatest impact as we live through our own motion pictures.
About our Super Seniors: Teacher recommendations, countless debates and advocacies lead us to finalizing the list of our top 10 seniors of the class of 2022. This group of exemplary students not only are chosen for their academic prowess, but also for their inspiring leadership, extra curricular involvement, and overall their positive impact on PRHS as well as our community. These seniors are truly super. Each of them will embody a movie poster that represents their highschool experience and connects to their personal triumphs.
Scan the code (right): Explore the Senior Issue on the Crimson Newsmagazine website! Find videos introducing our Super Seniors, digitialized versions of the stories, and the stories translated to Spanish!
Gonzalez chose her movie because the protagonist Starr is a 16 year old girl who has to fight the stereotypes African American people face after her childhood best friend is killed as a result of police brutality. The teenager in the movie is also figuring out who she is as she comes to terms with her African American roots while simultaneously living in a white America. Gonzalez sees herself in this film because activism helps her address the unsolved mysteries of racism and prejudice.
• Softball 2 Years
• 11 AP/Honors Classes
• Seal of Biliteracy
• Sacagawea Medal of Valor
• Radical Changemaker Award
• Lions Club Award
Melissa Ruth Gonzalez’s love for activism is expressed through her curiosity of the world. She enjoys questioning the world around her because she believes people are uncomfortable with the idea of diving deeper into the unknown. In her time at PRHS, Gonzalez has questioned school curriculum, leadership, representation, and even herself, asking, “How can I make a difference?”
Towards the end of her junior year, Gonzalez’s activism took off when PRHS Social Studies teacher Geoffrey Land asked her to be on a team to get the Ethnic Studies course passed during the well documented battle in May and June 2021 with the PRJUSD school board.
“Mel was one of the radical change maker students who advocated for the Ethnic Studies class, writing letters, speaking before the school board, and expanding community awareness about the need for the class. She helped make Ethnic Studies happen, and for that we should all be incredibly grateful!” Land said
Gonzalez stated she is passionate about Ethnic Studies because the class acknowledges marginalized groups and the curriculum isn’t told through a eurocentric standpoint. Gonzalez wants the 51% Latino student body to be represented in books, staff, and school board. Gonzalez strove to achieve this goal on Mar. 23, 2021 and Apr. 13, 2021 when she gave speeches to the school board on why she believed the Ethnic Studies class should be instated. As she stepped to the podium those evenings with her heart racing and hands trembling, she told herself that these days would make history at Paso High.
the Coming Out against Hate Forum Oct. 20, 2021. She has also hosted peaceful protest walks such as sexual assult for Atasadero High School on Dec. 2021 and MLK walk downtown a month later. Gonzalez also played a key role in PRHS’s first Baile, a dance that celebrated Hispanic culture and invited all to participate.
“Passionate, honest, and insightful” are just a few words students and teachers use to describe Gonzalez. Gonzalez’s close friend Lupita Covarruvias describes her as an influential figure in her life because she always encourages her to do better.
“She is always passionate about something and she is always helping other people. She has influenced my life by always making me think I can do better and I can accomplish anything. I hope Melissa has a bright future because she has already accomplished so much. I want all her dreams to come true because she truly does deserve it,” said Covarruvias.
She is always passionate about something and she is always helping other people.
“I hope you can hear in my voice just how passionate I am about this class because I would love to take this course as a senior and open the door for future Bearcats” Gonzalez said at an Apr. board meeting. “I want to look back five years from now and know that I was part of something big that shaped Paso High and amplified the voices of the unheard and underrepresented.”
After the Ethnic Studies course was passed, Gonzalez didn’t stop in her quest for representation. She was elected as the president of A.C.T (Activist Coalition of Tomorrow) Club where she hosted events geared towards celebrating different backgrounds. Gonzalez advocated for Native American and Hispanic Heritage months by helping create features on A.C.T’s instagram to raise awareness. She collabed with different clubs such as BSU and MEcha to host an Oct. diversity chalk and talk as well as helping with
El amor de Melissa Ruth González por el activismo se expresa a través de su curiosidad por el mundo. Le gusta cuestionar el mundo que la rodea porque cree que las personas se sienten incómodas con la idea de sumergirse más profundamente en lo desconocido. En su tiempo en PRHS, González ha cuestionado el currículo escolar, el liderazgo, la representación e incluso a sí misma.
Preguntar: “¿Cómo puedo hacer una diferencia?”
Hacia el final de su tercer año, el activismo de González despegó cuando el maestro de Estudios Sociales de PRHS, Geoffrey Land, le pidió que formara parte de un equipo
Gonzalez was featured in a Mar. 22, 2022 LA Times article for her work in getting Ethnic Studies passed, and was awarded the Radical Changemaker Award and the Sacajawea Medal of Valor in 2021. These awards are given to social justice leaders that are dedicated to racial justice in education. In the awards presentation, the students were recognized for embodying “the passion, intelligence, and civic engagement of a new generation dedicated to social justice and a more truthful telling of our nation’s diverse histories.” She was recognized for the Retired Teacher Association scholarship and the Mother’s of Peace Scholarship on June 5, 2022.
With over 10 years of community service experience with her church Vida Nueva and softball team, Gonzalez works to make herself and her community better. In her free time she loves laughter, friendship, diversity, conversation, and building connections between people. Gonzalez’s desire to make a positive difference in the world is constantly expanding her intellectual frameworks while being recognized by many.
“I like that Mel not only talks the talk, but she walks the walk. She lives her values, keeping an open mind to those who view things differently while advocating (with love and humor) for badly needed systemic change,” said Land.
para aprobar el curso de Estudios Étnicos durante la batalla bien documentada en mayo y junio de 2021 con la junta escolar de PRJUSD.
“Mel fue uno de los estudiantes creadores de cambios radicales que abogó por la clase de Estudios Étnicos, escribiendo cartas, hablando ante la junta escolar y ampliando la conciencia de la comunidad sobre la necesidad de la clase. Ella ayudó a que los Estudios Étnicos sucedieran, ¡Y por eso todos deberíamos estar increíblemente agradecidos!” Land dijo.
Senior Melissa Gonzales leads her peers through speaking up for marginalized groups on campus
LeClair is an obvious match to Showman’s main character, Phineas Taylor, who’s modeled after P.T. Barnum who created America’s circus cricuit in order to let people feel seen and heard. LeClair has spent hours of effort through clubs and sports to both entertain people and invite them to belong to the show. LeClair is also a star in Drama, Track, and Cross Country, making him 2022’s “Greatest Showman.”
For four years the focused beams of the PRHS stage lights have shown directly on Cameron LeClair. The lights might have blinded his eyes to the audience in front of him but it didn’t matter as play after play he has lost himself in his characters, his voice booming in the audience captivated everyone with his confidence and sheer talent no matter the role.
LeClair has starred in “Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time” (Dec. 2021) and “Addams Family” (Apr. 2022) as leads, Ed Boone and Gomez Addams, is the Drama Club president, and directed and wrote the one act “Two Sided” (May 2022).
LeClair however didn’t start off his freshman year with the same amount of certainty in himself. LeClair felt as though he didn’t have a place; that was until he starred in his first freshman musical, “Curtains.”
“The freshman year musical (Curtains) changed my life because it connected me to a lot of people, and it felt like one of the first times like I belonged somewhere,” LeClair said, who played Ronnie Driscoll that year.
PRHS theater advisor Marcy Goodnow has witnessed LeClair’s metamorphosis from a scared freshman into a self-assured senior. “Surprisingly enough, Cameron was a little nervous to be a part of Paso High Theatre Company his Freshman year. To have him as our Drama Club President now really shows how confident and committed he was able to become after initially becoming a part of the department.”
To LeClair it’s more important to be there for people than to be the star of the show.
“Drama is a lot of kids’ only place that they feel at home. Working towards the leadership aspect of things and bringing in new people and making them comfortable – I feel like I can see a lot of myself in them,” LeClair said. He is also a star on the track.
On the track field or sandy trails LeClair enters a state of intense concentration.
4 years of Drama
4 years Track
4 years Cross Country
CIF Central Section
Scholar Athlete
Top Cat
Lions Club Award
“When I’m racing I am thinking of everything and nothing at the same time. You have to fight off a lot of exhaustion and pain to let yourself push through,” LeClair said, who runs about 30 miles a week.
LeClair has achieved record times of 4:35 minute 1600 meter (Apr. 23, 2022 Elks SLO County Meet), 2:08 minute 800 meter (Apr. 23, 2022 Elks SLO County Meet), and 10:02 minute 3200 (May 5. Mountain League Championships).
In LeClair’s mind however, the records and the relationships created on the teams are of proportionate value. “People always ask us why we do what we do, and one of the biggest reasons is the people. I’m so grateful for everyone that made me fall in love with the sport,” LeClair said.
LeClair probably shines the brightest through his impact on the PRHS student body.
LeClair spoke at the November ``Coming Out Against Hate Forum”. A memorable evening in which he wore a shirt with a rainbow and “Be a Nice Human ‘’ written across it. He read the story of one LGBTQ+ student peer and stood in support as an ally after the hateful acts committed against LGBTQ+ students on campus.
LeClair also lobbied for the first ever student representative on the school board. “With everything going on in the community over the last year I thought it was important for issues that directly affect the students to have a student voicing their opinion on those issues…Within a week we earned over 500 signatures,” LeClair said.
None of these marvelous feats could have been completed without the kindness and humanity so deeply rooted in LeClair. As LeClair’s best friend of 17 years, Dylan Saunders, said “I think that every year that I’ve known him, he gets more and more kind and caring.”
LeClair is planning to further his education and impact on others by majoring in communications at University of Santa Barbara.
Durante cuatro años, Cameron LeClair ha estado en el centro de atención de los escenarios dramáticos de PRHS.
LeClair ha actuado en “Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time” (diciembre 2021) y “Addams Family” (abril 2022), es el presidente del Drama Club, y dirigió y escribió el acto “Two Sided” (mayo 2022).
Sin embargo, LeClair no comenzó su primer año con la misma certeza en sí mismo. LeClair sintió como si no tuviera un lugar; eso fue hasta que protagonizó su primer musical de primer año, “Curtains.”
“El musical (Curtains) cambió mi vida porque me conectó con mucha gente. Sentí que era una de las primeras veces que pertenecía a algún lugar,” dijo LeClair.
La directora de teatro, Marcy Goodnow, lo ha visto transformarse de un estudiante asustado a un estudiante seguro de sí mismo.
Para LeClair es más importante estar allí para la gente que ser la estrella del espectáculo.
También es una estrella en la pista de campo.
“Cuando corro, pienso en todo y en nada al mismo tiempo. Tienes que luchar contra mucho agotamiento y dolor para poder salir adelante,” dijo LeClair, que corre unas 30 millas cada semana.
LeClair probablemente brilla más a través de su impacto en el cuerpo estudiantil de PRHS.
LeClair habló en noviembre en el “Coming Out Against Hate Forum”. Una tarde memorable en la que vistió en una camiseta con un arcoíris y el dicho “Sé un buen humano.”
Ninguna de estas maravillosas hazañas podría haberse completado sin la amabilidad y la humanidad tan profundamente arraigadas en LeClair. “Creo que cada año que lo conozco, se vuelve más y más amable y cariñoso,” dijo su mejor amigo Dylan Saunders.
“I think that every year that I’ve known him, he gets more and more kind and caring.”
DYLAN SAUNDERS, 12
Come one, come all to witness the story of the “wonderfully weird, amazingly intelligent, and intensely passionate” Cameron LeClair
Bryson Hoier
Phoebe Hancock
Ava Hughes
Reese Hartley
Charlize Kee
Kaitlyn Hebrard
Angela King
Morgan Henry
Reese Kobayashi
Lucas Henson
Chrismari Koegelenberg
Allison Hernadez
Dylan Gaither
Athyna Garcia Maila Gaviola Alyssabeth Goldhammer
Jocelyn Gonzalez
Taylor Ehlers
Riley LaChance
Hailey Hodel
Solana Fairburn Madison Fanning Alejandra Flores Michael Fontes
Logan Fotheringham Faith Frederick
Rae Fuentes Czarinna
Nayeli Gonzalez Dorian Gonzalez Kiera Grace Owen Grandoli
Genevieve Grimes Erwin Gutierrez Avery Hambly
Zaira Gomez
Jadyn Lehr Abby Lewis Devynne Linnell
Jenelle Loewen
Jacey Loewen Reily Lowry
Cameron LeClair
Fiery orange and yellow sparks fly intensely; her concentration is fierce as the molten metal begins to smooth. She is wearing a thick pair of worn-down gloves, and a large weathered Carhartt jacket. This girl is not messing around. Her posture is focused as she leans into her welds, and then a slight smile begins to form as she lifts up her helmet to examine her work. After countless hours of practice and years of training, she will now be adorned with the 2021 SkillsUSA State Champion title for welding.
Much like welding, senior Grace Wittstrom takes much of her academics and extracurriculars seriously, with hard work and intentionality, she always puts forth her greatest effort. In addition to her expertise in welding, she is also in the top 5 percent of her class with over a 4.0 GPA placing her at rank 6, and the second-highest ranked girl. She has taken 23 Honors/Advanced Placement/College Prep courses. She has been President of SkillsUSA for the second year in a row, and she has earned her State FFA Degree.
“[Grace] is one of the hardest working students that I have seen during my time at Paso Robles High School,” said Agriculture Department Chair, Justin Pickard. “She balances academics, athletics, projects, AP, family, work and does a remarkable job at all.”
Pickard has been teaching Wittstrom in the Agricultural Mechanics CTE Pathway since freshman year, when she first decided to enroll in the welding class.
Wittstroms believes strongly in SkillsUSA and thinks students truly set themselves up for success by choosing to participate in the organization. What she enjoys most about SkillsUSA is the amount of students involved and how the skills they are able to learn from a career driven program will help them directly out of high school.
In addition to welding and SkillsUSA, Wittstrom spends a lot of her time and energy towards her academics. With such academic rigor in her already impacted schedule it has been a challenge for her to maintain her spot in the top 10 students in the class, however, despite the struggle she has thrived. This year she has taken a full course load of 6 AP/Honors or dual enrolled classes and will graduate with a 4.7 GPA.
“Grace is one of the hardest working students that I have seen. She balances academics, athletics, projects, AP, family, work and does a remarkable job at all,” JUSTIN
Wittstrom understood the importance of welding from her father and her grandfather using the skill in day-to-day life; but at the time, she didn’t realize how much creativity could be expressed, which is her favorite thing about welding and being able to make something with her hands.
“I like the creativity. I have a hard time with attention to detail and keeping things consistent. But the idea that I can look at something or look at a table and be ‘like, oh, yeah, I could figure that out,’ is really rewarding,” Wittstrom said.
As President of SkillsUSA, Wittstrom has many responsibilities which include communicating with the chapter advisor Randy Canaday, coordinating various events such as the Pioneer Day and Christmas Parade floats for SkillsUSA, pizza parties for hundreds of SkillsUSA members at the highschool, and organizing meetings with students and parents involved. Her main responsibility is tying the organization to the student body, and getting students involved with SkillsUSA.
“Meeting Grace as a freshman in my drafting class was the beginning of my admiration for a young lady who discovers what she wants to do, sets goals, and completes everything necessary to achieve them. Grace is a one-in-a-million person,” Canaday said.
La estudiante de último año Grace Wittstrom toma en serio gran parte de sus estudios académicos y extracurriculares, con trabajo duro e intencionalidad, siempre se esfuerza al máximo. Además de su experiencia en soldadura, también se encuentra en el 5 por ciento superior de su clase con un GPA de más de 4.0 que la ubica en el puesto 6 y la segunda chica mejor clasificada.
“I’m really thankful that I did so much because it’s setting me up for success, but it’s been hard staying motivated. It’s been go go go for four years, giving all I got, and I’m looking ahead and I have another three years just to keep pushing,” she said. “I went into high school, not really knowing what I wanted to do with my life. But I knew I wanted to be able to give myself the best opportunity and I didn’t want to cut myself short.”
PICKARDSenior Faith Gaudi, a friend of Wittstrom’s since 6th grade, believes she is a Super Senior because “she is so involved and puts 100% effort into everything she does. And not only does she do well, but she also stays positive throughout all of it.”
One of Wittstrom’s greatest inspirations has been her aunt Heidi Wittstrom. Heidi is a local business woman, and entrepreneur who inspires Wittstrom to work hard, but more importantly, to be kind.
“[Heidi’s] has taught me that you can always have fun and joke around but at the end of the day it’s kindness and your drive that makes your personality and sets up your whole life. So I try to follow in her footsteps and do the best I can,” Wittstrom said.
It has been evident to teachers and peers that Wittstrom carries herself with humility, thoughtulness and compassion.
“Grace is determined, joyful, and affable because she’s just such a kind bubbly person who is always pushing herself to
Wittstrom chose the 2006 film “Flikca,” to represent the trials and tribulations of moving out of state for college. Flicka has been her favorite movie since she was little, inspiring her to have the confidence to overcome any challenges life throws at her. Throughout the movie, the main character, Katy McLaughlin has to overcome difficulties with her horse, Flicka, which Wittstrom can relate to in the challenges she has faced throughout high school and choosing to movie to Utah.
Ha tomado 23 cursos de Honores/Colocación Avanzada/ Preparación Universitaria. Ha sido presidenta de SkillsUSA por segundo año consecutivo y obtuvo su título estatal de la FFA. “[Grace] es una de las estudiantes más trabajadoras que he visto durante mi tiempo en la Escuela Secundaria Paso Robles”, dijo el presidente del Departamento de Agricultura, Justin Pickard.
Carmesi Asombrosa Grace
As an inspiration to all, senior Grace Wittstrom leads with the work of her hands and the kindness in her heart
Casting a line and taking a deep breath, senior Cody Domingos relishes in the calm, cool air and smell of the lake, while enjoying a break from his robust schedule. He patiently waits for the feel of a bite as he sits on the boat in the middle of Lake Nacimiento. Filling his time with a mass of activities, this super senior has definitely made the most of his high school experience by not letting the ‘catch’ of any opportunity go by him.
Domingos has dominated the show ring with his sheep, winning 2020 California Mid-State Fair (CMSF) FFA Reserve Champion Market Lamb, 2021 Salinas Valley Fair Reserve Supreme Champion Market Lamb and the 2021 CMSF FFA Supreme Champion Sheep Showman, and hoping to win again at this years CMSF. As a freshman, Domingos first entered a new part of the agriculture world through his Welding I class, along with joining the Future Farmers of America (FFA) club, a nation-wide learning program with over 700,000 members. His interest began before his ninth grade year, growing up in an agcentered family and surrounding himself with friends also a part of the industry.
Beginning to show lambs through 4-H in fifth grade, Domingos joined FFA to continue this passion and has proven that hard work counts. All of it was earned as Domingos poured hundreds of hours into caring for his livestock in the months prior to showing with feeding, grooming, practice, and more.
Unfortunately, he had to scratch his lamb entry into the 2022 Salinas Valley Fair a week before showing due to an injury in his project.
Welding CTE teacher Justin Pickard has had Cody as a student since 2018, aiding him in earning his degrees and being a mentor in regards to welding.
“The way that he prioritizes his goals and works to excel in so many areas of his life is something remarkable to see in a young adult like Cody. He balances his commitments and stays focused on succeeding in school, work, welding, showing animals, fishing, and being a positive member of his family,” Pickard said.
Domingos also competed in SkillsUSA , demonstrating the skills he learned in welding to real-world applications through his four years. In 2019, he earned Bronze in the state for OxyAcetylene Welding, 2020 Region 2 Gold Medal for Shielded Metal Arc Welding, and in 2021 Region 2 Gold Medal for the category of Welding.
To change up the scenery from the heat of the shop and the smells of a farm, Domingos also led as PRHS water polo captain and top two scorer, and swim team, throughout high school. Brought up to varsity his sophomore year for polo, Domingos says he will remember it as one of the best parts of his high school experience.
Make lots of friendships. Make good with your teachers, do your homework and enjoy your time. Don’t waste a single second of it because every second that you waste, you’ll never get back.
CODY DOMINGOS, 12
“Unfortunately, that’s one of the risks you take when you decide to show livestock. You know that there’s a possibility of them not being able to compete and you losing all of the money you put into it, and you hope it never happens. But if it does, then you just have to try and rebound back from it.”
Along with raising livestock, Domingos started his pathway in Welding his freshman year under advisor Justin Pickard,, completing all four levels. Through both selling livestock and auctioning off welding projects, Domingos earned enough hours and money to qualify for the FFA State Degree. This award is only given to about 1900 students in the state each year, requiring 500 hours in their Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) project, invest over $1000 into that project, put in 25 hours of community service, and demonstrate leadership abilities. He is now on the way to earning his FFA American Degree, which can only be achieved a year after graduation and requires earning over $10,000 in SAE projects, 50 hours of community service, and more.
“It was one of those things where you would dread going to school all day, and then you’re like, Oh, sweet. I get to go to practice after this and hang out with all my best friends.
He ended his career in the water as one of the top scorers on the team, with 85 goals, 43 assists and 47 steals. He was elected captain of the team for his senior year, and earned the Lions Club Sportsmanship Award.
HIs passions for the water flow also into his well-known fishing reputation. Recently, Cody and his lifelong friend Kyle Goldstein competed in a state-level bass fishing tournament at Delta, taking 4th place out of 47 teams. Since they were within the top 10% of teams, they qualified for the National tournament that will take place in Pickwick, Alabama in late June. Domingos has been fishing for “all of his life,” starting with his dad and eventually finding the love for it to truly pursue competitions and learn more about it. Currently, he works at Jim’s Pro Bass & Tackle, giving him an inside opportunity to learn more about bass fishing.
Through all of the work he has put in, tournaments won, and talent shown, Domingos received the opportunity to attend the University of Tennessee on a scholarship for the bass fishing team. He plans on earning a degree in Agriculture Business, and making the most out of every opportunity that comes his way in the future like he has these last four years.
Cody Domingos aprovecha al máximo su experiencia en la escuela secundaria. Durante su tiempo en PRHS él ha participado en soldadura, polo de agua, FFA, nadar, y pescando mientras que sea un estudiante superior. Domingos se enfatiza que no hay oportunidad se hace falta y hacer lo mejor de cada momento en PRHS.
Domingos picked the iconic 1980’s movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” as a representation of his high school career, with the moral of it to make the most of everything. One important quote that Cody took to heart was “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” He compared this to how the last four years have gone for him, saying “Time flies. You can’t take any minute of it for granted cause you’re never going to get that minute back.”
I am so proud of our Bearcat Class of 2022 and the resiliency, caring, and understanding you all have shown, even when faced with the most difficult news. While I am sure it doesn’t seem this way now, you will be a stronger person with a brighter future, having lived through these challenging circumstances and coming out the other side ready to change the world. I believe this will be a class ready to tackle the trying times ahead and a new world where so many norms will continue to be challenged. Congratulations, Class of 2022. I know you will continue to make us proud because you are Bearcats, and that is what Bearcats do!
There is a pure joy in getting to watch a student enter on their very first day of school. To be the first person to say hello, get them cheering “Crimson Crew”, watch them on their very first day of being a Bearcat. I get to see fear, confusion and nervousness turn into motivation, joy and PRide. I’m lucky. I appreciate all of the students who walked through my doors of 510 and 503. You know who you are, and each of you know how you made a difference to my programs and to me. So, with a heart full of love and sadness, I want to thank you for making it happen, walking the walk, taking the time to make a change. Wherever your next journey leads you, find the spirit in the program, look for the good…I’m so proud of you. Shine…and Let’s Go Bearcats!
Bless you, senior class. Be strong, courageous, and open to others! Our world needs you! May your ODYSSEY bring purpose and freedom. My graduating journalists, my largest senior count in my 33 years teaching, you are Ashley, Asusena, Bricen, Emily N, Emily R, Hailey, Jocelyn, Maicah, Malia, Rayvin, Reese, Reily, TJ, Zaira, and Zoey. To you 15, may our 604 endeavors carry you far. You’ve published your last pubs and posts, you’ve loved it, reported it, shot it; you’ve team built, slaved, designed, ached, solved, gorged, traveled, and won scores of awards. Your maturity and goodness are enormous!. You have lived the life of the Crimson and YB programs – now no more late nights! – and you’ve given this community valuable, inspiring, and important coverage. You’re community servants, you’re skilled, and you’re wonderful. Keep impacting and shining your light. For you are jolly good fellows!
Oh class of 2022, Thank you for bringing back some normalcy. I’m excited to watch you walk across that stage to receive your hard earned diploma like so many classes before you. The world was reinvented during your time at PRHS. It was hard to watch the polarization of topics taught in our science classes. Somehow the basics of germ theory and immunology became political. Teaching about mRNA has never been something I could apply to current events. I urge you all to go forth with a critical mind, don’t take any news or online posts at face value, ask yourself the nuanced questions that are being raised by such articles. I have a pretty good feeling about this graduating class, you seem a bit more aware, a bit more hardened. You’ve stood up when events on campus gained national attention. I’ve seen more bravery from you bearcats than from most of our elected officials. These past 4 years have been a crucible for many of you, you’ve been melted down and are coming out stronger than ever. My final lesson/words of advice for you: fight for what you know is right but also take time to consider other viewpoints. Don’t be afraid to reframe your mindset as you acquire more knowledge and experiences. And finally, always keep an extra jacket in the back of your car.
Dear Class of 2022! Congratulations on this major life accomplishment! You did it, and I am so proud of you. Some of us have known each other since 10th grade MWH and others I met in 11th grade USH. We bonded over Google Meets. I memorized your voices and learned about your lives through breakout rooms and chat bars. What a crazy time! And you persevered through a global pandemic to find yourselves here in the last days of your high school experience. It seems like yesterday and a million years ago.
As you leave high school, remember that life is both really short and really long at the same time. What does that mean? Well, first of all, pursue joy and pleasure and see everything that the world has to offer. Take advantage of opportunities, and don’t let fear stop you from new experiences. You are supposed to change and grow and reinvent yourself through life. Life is too short to cruise along on autopilot, fulfilling roles that you think society expects of you. At the same time, life is really long, so choose careers that interest you. Educate yourself and strive to make money and build a life in ways that fullfill you. You’re going to have to work hard for many years, so pursue things that challenge your mind and creatively hold your interest.
Above all, be the good humans that you are. Continue to show people how much you love them (1st semester USH period 3, you know what I am talking about!). We never know what people are dealing with at any given time; showing love in all its forms is the easiest and most powerful way to make the world a better place!
I love you all, and especially my nephew Waylon Abernathy Barth.
Idon’t even know where to start. You have faced a world riddled with truly unprecedented challenges. You have been tasked with making the best possible situation out of one of the most trying times we have seen in recent years.
My lovely graduating humans, It has been an absolute honor to have spent the past four years with each and every one of you. Congratulations on making it through this crazy ever changing four years of high school! The graduating class of 2022 will always have an incredibly special place in my heart because when your first day of your Freshman year started, it was my first day of teaching! We have spent the past 4 years growing, learning, and adapting to the ever changing world we live in together. Every year of your high school career has been dramatically different from the last and increasingly more challenging, but you made it! The Class of 2022 has taught me more about being a teacher and a human than I could have ever imagined, and for that I am forever grateful. As you move forward in the world and become global citizens, don’t forget the things you learned along the way. Don’t forget that you are powerful, intelligent, and beyond capable. I may not be your teacher anymore, but you will always be “my lovely humans” and I will always love you all and be here for you.
eniors, The time has come to wish you good luck on your journey. I could not be more proud of the resiliency you have shown over the last few years, but more importantly the passion and dedication you have shown throughout your time on and off our stage. We have come back from a challenging time and YOU were ready to jump back in with both feet. Your dedication to our department has made our year a complete success and we can now rebuild. As you leave the 500 building, I hope you will remember the lessons you have learned here. That “on time” is early, to practice how you want to perform, to solve problems with grace, and to never lose your sense of humor. You will always have a home here and I will always want to be a part of your big life events. Go off and start your adventure, but remember you are loved and missed every day. Be kind, be passionate, and go show the world what you are made of.
Class of 2022, I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know you this year; my first and your last year at Paso Robles High School. There were plenty of hurdles to overcome during your high school career, and you showed resilience, grace, and determination at each turn. Now you are at the finish line, but really it is only the beginning and I know you will go out into this world and leave it better than you found it. I have truly enjoyed our time in class (even tutorial..you know who you are!) but more importantly, I’ve enjoyed the time outside the classroom during field trips, conferences and watching you in dance shows, plays, games, competitions and much more. Your experience in high school has shaped who you are, but what comes next is so very important to the trajectory of your life. Go far, but don’t forget who you are. Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat!
Wow, I can’t believe it’s over! Congratulations on a bright future! You have endured so much to get to this place! We were able to open the doors back up to Bearkitten this year and I couldn’t have done it without all of you who stepped up to make Bearkitten an enriching experience for children and families. We were able to celebrate holidays again, share circle times and just “be” with small children and I felt your appreciation of the simple things, when we saw their faces after the masks came off and we were so very touched by their smiles and yours. Some of you experienced our first Bearkitten Summer Camp EVER as an intern! We went to San Francisco to learn about teaching and the brain and created so many wonderful memories and I hope plant the seeds for a future impacting young children. We rocked SkillsUSA and got to go in-person. Now go take all those skills and magical moments and make an amazing life, that is rich with all you know now you can achieve. You are amazing Bearcats and I have been changed forever by the Class of 2022!
To my much beloved Class of 2022-Socky McPuppet and I were hoping that you will think about these quotes that we read this year.
“Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast?” (Genesis 4:6).
“The Hebrew word, the word timshel—‘Thou mayest’— that gives a choice”. (East of Eden).
“Much on earth is concealed from us, but in place of it we have been granted a secret, mysterious sense of our living bond with the other world, with the higher heavenly world, and the roots of our thoughts and feelings are not here but in other worlds. That is why philosophers say it is impossible on earth to conceive the essence of things. God took seeds from other worlds and sowed them on this earth, and raised up his garden; and everything that could sprout sprouted, but it lives and grows only through its sense of being in touch with other mysterious worlds; if this sense is weakened or destroyed in you, that which has grown up in you dies. Then you become indifferent to life, and even come to hate it.” (The Brothers Karamazov). Keep in touch.
“McFarland, USA” follows a group of boys from the poor town of McFarland who find themselves shaping up into a successful cross country team, a story that mirrors Lopez’s quite well. Lopez and the boys both must work to support their families, while at the same time make time for cross country, thus showing intense will power and even intenser love for others. Lopez describes the movie as relatable and one of her favorite films.
With shoes snugly pressed against grass and dozens of girls on either side of her, an air of anticipation permeates the air of Xochilt
Catalina Luis Lopez’s senior year CIF cross country race at Woodward Park, Fresno on November 18th, 2021. Long distance running is an arduous trial - but in her life, Lopez has already overcome trials aplenty.
Suddenly: bang!
The guns goes off. The race starts. Lopez flies.
As is expected for a senior such as herself. In every aspect of Lopez’s life, from volunteering to academics to work, she demonstrates a dedication to success, fuelled by an undeniable love for others and a hearty amount of grit beneath her quiet exterior.
On top of balancing a 4.1 GPA, Lopez spends a vast majority of her time working, taking long shifts at La Tapatia, a Mexican grill located in Paso Robles, as well as working with her mother at an organic farm on the weekends. Lopez has a busy schedule, and her work often had to take priority over other aspects of her life.
During COVID, Lopez had to learn more ardently than ever the importance of perseverance.
“It’s always been my mom and my little sister and I. We didn’t have a lot of money (so) during COVID we obviously but my mom taught me to go work out in the fields and I think that brought us a lot closer,” Lopez said, who describes laboring in the vineyards for 2-3 months during online school to make ends meet. She worked in the vineyards from 6am to 4pm, and then went home to do any work she needed to complete for school. The days were long and hot and tiring, but Lopez stayed strong.
time. In soccer, a sport she’s participated in for about seven years, she competed on the varsity level.
“Doing those sports, you get to stay away from all those things (that are stressful) and just enjoy yourself for a little bit,” Lopez said. “It just distracted me and made me feel good. And (I love) the people.”
Volunteering and helping others is another major priority for Lopez, working in Veterans Hall, Key Club, and tutoring.
Cristal Martinez, who met Lopez in eighth grade, knows Lopez has left a mark on her and praises her friend’s virtue.
“Anybody who has had an interaction with her will always bring up how kind and humble she is,” Martinez said. “She’s always willing to drop anything in order to help.”
“When I was going through a tough time she was always there to let me know I wasn’t alone, from sending me texts of motivation to bringing me food to my house – she helped me out so much.”
Jon-Paul Ewing, Lopez’s GEO teacher, emphasizes Lopez’s thoughtfulness and intellect. “Xochilt is very reserved, (but) this shouldn’t be confused for disinterest. She is very engaged with the class (and) intentional with the conversation she makes,” he said. “It is rare for high school students to see the world beyond themselves (but) Xochilt is thoughtful about topics we discuss in class. She is making tough decisions as a high schooler to better provide for her mother and younger sister.”
After high school, Lopez plans on going into the navy for four years, and then furthering her education in college with a major in political science and a minor in ethnic studies. Eventually, she dreams about going into law enforcement.
“It was hard, but (my mom) was like, ‘We’re gonna get through this.’ And we did. (It helped me) to appreciate my life and importance of academics.”
Through this experience her respect for “hard work” especially the work “immigrant parents have to do on a daily basis” also deepened greatly.
To combat stress in and outside of school, Lopez played two sports throughout her high school career, soccer and cross country, both of which she found some success; throughout her cross country career, Lopez ran her way to varsity and dropped almost five minutes in her 5,000 meter
Tamaño de su Pelea
Como se esperaba de una persona mayor como ella. En todos los aspectos de la vida de López, desde el voluntariado hasta la academia y el trabajo, demuestra una dedicación al éxito, impulsada por un amor innegable por los demás y una gran cantidad de determinación debajo de su exterior tranquilo.
Además de equilibrar un GPA de 4.1, López pasa la mayor parte de su tiempo trabajando, tomando turnos largos en La Tapatía, una parrilla mexicana ubicada en Paso Robles, y trabajando con su madre en una granja orgánica los fines de semana. López tiene una agenda ocupada y su trabajo a
“I want to be able to help people and make people feel safe when they like see others when they see me,” Lopez said. “There’s not that many females, especially minority groups (in law enforcement.) So I want to let other younger people see me and go, ‘Oh, hey, like that looks like me!’ I want to inspire them to want it and just (let them know) to know that they can do it.”
With such a mindset equipped, Lopez is primed and ready to race towards a brighter future for herself, her family, and everyone she meets, her pace steady and a beautiful finish expected.
menudo tenía que tener prioridad sobre otros aspectos de su vida.
Durante el COVID, López tuvo que aprender con más ardor que nunca la importancia de la perseverancia.
“Siempre hemos sido mi mamá, mi hermana pequeña y yo. No teníamos mucho dinero (así que) durante COVID, obviamente, pero mi mamá me enseñó a hacer ejercicio en el campo y creo que eso nos acercó mucho. ”, dijo López, quien describe trabajar en los viñedos durante 2-3 meses durante la escuela en línea para llegar a fin de mes.
Xochilt Catalina Luis Lopez positively impacts others while persisting through personal issues
Carmesi
I admire how hardworking she is (and) she just inspires me so much to become a better person.
Hansen came into the “PRHS Kitchen” as a small, quiet, ratty little freshman. He was not one to speak up and didn’t really talk to people. Through experiences with others, good and bad, Hansen has become one of the most charismatic people at the high school. He has become a leader and speaker through his four years of leadership, and has truly become the “head chef” of his community, just like Alfredo Linguine.
by Conner Rocha, Photography Director
In a sea of rainbow masks, one person shining behind them speaks up, introducing himself, among hoots and applause, as MC to the over 350 audience members. Meet John Seden-Hansen. The ASB Vice President led a group of over a dozen students in October as part of the LGBTQIA+ community to speak up against recent intolerant events against their community. With a motivation to not just help himself, but help others more, Hansen was chosen as one to represent, to bring out the voice of others who cannot speak for themselves, showing everyone what exactly it meant to be “Coming Out Against Hate.”
Hansen described the night as one of his biggest achievements over his high school career, saying that he was honored with the privilege of hosting an event that speaks up for those who cannot speak themselves. His hope, in the end, was that he could leave behind an environment for the future generation of Bearcats to feel safe in.
Hansen, one of the most active faces of the senior class, has proven across four years his hope was to leave behind the awareness of these issues, to raise his voice to allow others to follow, and to build strong campus spirit. His four years in PRHS Leadership class and a host of ASB titles and events shows that he has wanted to solve problems at the high school, in the community, and make sure everyone has a voice.
“‘Coming Out Against Hate’ was a big opportunity to at least try and make a difference for those kids who aren’t secure at the high school,” Hansen said.
He hasn’t always been this way, though. Joining clubs such as the Activist Club, being in leadership for all four years, and being the ASB Vice President for his senior year have all helped him improve his skills as a leader and speaker for his community. This has helped Hansen not only improve himself as a person, but also be more open to talking and bringing kindness to everyone around him.
“I try my best to be positive as much as I can. I think a little bit of positivity in your life, even from a stranger, can really make your day better,” Hansen said. “My style is being as friendly as possible to everyone, regardless of
Friends also describe Hansen as someone who will instantly light up a room the instant he enters it, according to friend Holly DiSimone. He is seen as someone who is always reaching a hand out to help others, no matter who they are. In over a decade of knowing Hansen, DiSimone has described him as someone always willing to check in on people, making sure nobody is left behind.
“John is the person to instantly make you smile or laugh as soon as you see him walk into the room,” DiSimone said, who has been friends with Hansen since Kindergarten. “John is always willing to be the voice that other people don’t have, and is always willing to stand up there for other people. He’s just a great support system that everyone really wants and needs in their life.”
Hansen has also excelled in his athletics, as well, being a varsity swimmer since his freshman year alongside being a part of the varsity water polo team. He had become a staple of the swim team, swimming events such as the 200 yard IM, and also becoming the team’s top swimmer in the 100 yard backstroke.
“In seventh grade I joined the swim team and ever since then, I’ve been involved in aquatics,” Hansen said, describing the journey to becoming a four year varsity swimmer. “I started with just club, and eventually started swimming for the high school as well.”
Hansen’s academics have led him to a commitment to the University of Santa Cruz, to major in Human Biology, with hopes of later in life becoming a nurse, with the intent of helping others when they still need it most.
Hansen wants to make sure that he has left an impact on the school and wants to leave one final message for the future generations of students coming to the high school.
“You can raise your voice to talk about those awkward things that nobody wants to talk about. You can raise your voice to solve those problems at the high school, solve problems in the community,” Hansen said. “You can show people that anyone can make a difference if we just work together.”
De solo un joven callado en noveno a ser presentador en uno de los eventos más impactantes en la preparatoria John Seden Hansen a dejado un impacto en la comunidad.
En un océano de cubrebocas de arcoiris hay una persona que brilla entre todo. John Seden Hansen se presenta como el vice presidente del cuerpo estudiantil. Dirije a más de una docena de estudiantes en octubre como parte de la comunidad LGTBQIA+ para crear conciencia en el odio contra la comunidad. Hansen con una motivación para ayudarse a si mismo y ayudar a
los demas, decide a representar a los quien no pueden usar su voz para hablar por ellos mismos enseñandole a todos que exactamente significa “Salir contra el odio.”
Hansen describe que esa noche era un gran logro para el durante el tiempo que ha estado en la preparatoria. También dice que el esta honrado y es un privilegio poder presentar ese evento para los quien no pueden usar sus voces por ellos mismos.
Hansen espera de que el pueda dejar un ambiente en donde la futura generación de Bearcats se puedan sentir seguros.
From a quiet freshman to MC of one of the year’s most impactful events, John Seden-Hansen the impact on the community
Avery, Congratulations!! This is just the beginning of your next adventure! We are so proud of you and look forward to watching you spread your wings and make your way at Boise State! The world is yours girl. Dream big! We love you, Mom and Dad
Congratulations, Son! You are an amazing young man, and you ROCKED your high school years... Continue the hard work, and reach for the stars and remember to enjoy all the beautiful little things along the way. We are so excited to watch the continuation of your journey. We will always be your biggest fans!
Love, Mom & Dad
Avery
Avery- Congratulations! You are an amazing young lady who does whatever it takes to accomplish your goals. Your high school experience was not normal but you made the best of the situation and thrived through it all. We are looking forward to what the next four years brings at Chico State and where life takes you in the future. We are so proud of you and your accomplishments! We will always be there for you.
Love- Mom and Dad.
Carson Reneau
Congratulations to our final bearcat! We are so amazed at how our baby boy has turned into a grown man. I can’t wait to see what the future brings to you. You have so much to offer the world. Our lives are better with you in it!
xoxo Mom and Dad
Bryson HoierBryson, Live every day to its fullest and always remember, both on and off the field, to “never let the fear of striking out get in your way!”
Your tremendous work ethic, tenacity, and the character that you show each day has made us so proud. Now it’s time to go show those Lions what at Bearcat can do!
Congratulations!
-Dad, Mom & Braydon
Caroline St. Martin
Caroline! We are so proud of you! You are a wonderful, smart, funny, creative, beautiful young woman. We can't wait to see what comes next! Love you so much!
Mom & Dad XOXOXOXOXOXO
Charlotte you are so full of life with always a smile on your face and a sparkle in your eyes. We are so proud of you and your accomplishments. Continue to be amazing and inspiring. This is just the beginning. God has a great plan for you, walk in his path and he will guide your footsteps. Don't let the world change your kind heart, let your kind heart change the world. Lots of love, Mom, Dad, Mya and Ethan
You did it!! We are so PROUD of you, Clara!! You are such a talented lady and a hard worker with a stunningly bright future ahead of you. I hope you look back over your high school years and see how they have challenged you and shaped you. But now it’s time for something new and we are your biggest fans as you head out into the world!
Love, Mom Dad Gwen Love you 3000-Heather
Colton, we are so proud of you! We look forward to all the great things you are going to accomplish in life. You are an amazing brother to your younger sisters that are always looking up to you.We’ve enjoyed spending countless hours in the bleachers watching you on the basketball court, out on the baseball field and watching you in the show ring! Keep giving it your all Bub, it’s in your hands! We love you to pieces!
Love, Dad,Mom, Addisyn, Jaelyn
Alyssa, it feels just like yesterday it was your first day of kindergarten and now you’re graduating. We are extremely proud of all of your accomplishments! You set your sights on your Seal of Biliteracy and soared academically. You got into one of the best universities and we are excited to see where life takes you. You have such a bright future ahead! We love you so much!
- Mom and Dad
To our baby girl, we could not be more proud of you. You navigated High School with beauty, poise, and grace. Nothing kept you down. CIF Champion, 4 year varsity stunt, 4 year FFA, 4 Year cheerleader. You may be ready to take on the world but you will always be our baby girl. We love you to infinity and beyond. Mom, Dad, Richard, William
Andrew, we are so excited for your next big adventure in Wyoming! It’s going to be a whole lot colder and the wind is going to blow a whole lot harder, but hopefully that’ll make you appreciate coming back home ;) Experience the “Wonderland of America” and soak up all the knowledge they offer. Take advantage of opportunities that come your way and go get ‘em Cowboy! You make us proud every day! Love, Mom & Dad
You've worked hard and it's paid off! We're proud of you for taking chances and chasing dreams. Your California roots will always be part of who you are, but now your wings are taking you to Tennessee for the best days of your life. We'll always be cheering you on from the shoreline. Wishing you tight lines, big bass and good friends at UT. Congratulations Hammer!
We have enjoyed watching you grow into the young man that you are. You are kind, loyal, witty and have so much potential! We are happy you’ve decided to continue playing baseball because we love to watch you play and can’t wait to see where the next level takes you. Work hard, believe in yourself, and stay focused!!! We love you very much so don’t ever forget that. I know we have pushed you and you were often annoyed with us, but we have always seen your true worth and wanted you to strive for excellence. Remember to reach to God in good times and hard times, He will always guide you. We are always here for you! Love, Mom, Dad, and Courtney
Christopher ClimerWe love you so much and are very proud of the young man you have become! Your future is so very bright. You have set goals for yourself, you know what you want, skies the limit son. Please stay true to yourself, and kind to others. We love you always, Mom, Dad, Lucas and Barrett
Chrismari KoegelenburgDearest Kitty, we are so proud of the wonderful person you grew up to be! You are such a hardworking and dedicated student, a caring and kind friend and a loving and sweet daughter. Love you so much my baby and excited to see what the future holds!
Hard work pays off! You were born for greatness. Continue to focus on your dreams and we will watch them become reality. Boomer Sooner!
Andrew Olsen Austin Taylor Alyssabeth Goldammer Alyssa Thompson Charlottle Castelli Clara Lundy Cody Domingos Carson Turnquist Colton Wollerman
You made it!! We are so proud of the person you are. We have no doubt you will make a difference in the world and we love you so much. Set those goals and don’t stop until you have surpassed them! We love you pops!
Devynne we are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments. We enjoyed watching you grow into a lovely young lady over the past four years. It was so exciting to watch you at the football games and especially the stunt competitions. Have fun at Jessup and experience all that’s ahead of you. Fly high and be safe. We love you, Mom, KK, Dad and Hayley
Words are not enough to convey just how proud of you we are. You exude nothing but kindness, love, and generosity to all who are lucky enough to cross your path - all the while staying true to yourself. No matter where you go in life, we will be there in your corner with love, respect and support. - Mom and Dad
Grayson Arellano
The day you’ve been waiting for is finally here! We are so proud of all of your accomplishments throughout your years in school thus far and cannot wait to see the rest of your goals and dreams come to fruition. If anyone can make it happen, it’s you! We love to eternity and are so excited for your next chapter! Love, Dad, Mom, and Amani
Felicia, you have grown into an exceptionality creative young woman. We can’t wait to see where your next stage in life will take you. We are so proud of you!
Love mom and KikoFooshie, your smile, questionable humor, your drive, your love for your family is so special. You are a gift from God! You have been a pure joy to parent. Thank you for making it easy. We love you most!
Congratulations Connor! Your family couldn’t be more proud in all your hard work and achievements! Keep being YOU and chase your dreams! We love you to the moon and back!
Vroom, Dorian, anywhere in life you want to go, you’ll get there Your family loves you and we’re so proud of you!
You have worked so hard the last four years and have already accomplished so much! Your work ethic is unlike anything we have ever seen! You have always showed such kindness and empathy to others. The last 18 years have been the best years of our lives! And one of our proudest moments was you getting into UCLA! We know you are going to make the world a better place! Congratulations and good luck! We love you! Love, Mom and Dad
Wow! You did it! It’s finally time to move on to bigger and better things. We are all so very proud of you, Ella. You are the most amazing, powerful, smart, beautiful, wise, & witty young woman. We are thrilled to see what your life brings, and what you bring to the world. Love always to our Queenie Ella! From mom, dad, grandma Kathy & Nate
Way to go Eli! We love you very much and are proud of you and everything you have accomplished. Keep up working hard to get everything you want in life. You have grown up so fast and every moment has been wonderful.
My Son, I want to tell you just how proud I am, and always have been. Your work ethic is incredible. Despite numerous injuries, illnesses, and surgeries you held the same job since you were 15 and barely missed a day of school or work. You are a generous, kind young man. I see how much time and effort you put into your music, and how talented you are, and I look forward to watching you grow as an artist. Sometimes I get sad when I realize how fast time is passing. My baby is graduating from high school. I wish I could turn back the clock and do it all over. I can’t wait to see the man you will become. I love you with all my heart. Your Mama!
May you celebrate your graduation remembering special memories from your past and exciting dreams for your future!!! Your future is so bright and full of possibilities! We are so proud of you and all you have done! Continue to dream BIG and know that you are loved! Cheers to your acceptance into the University of Oregon! Go Ducks!!!
Jadyn LehrEvan: When you graduated from Bearkittens, each child was given a word that described them. Your word was “Determined” and it is so apropos! Determination carried you through your K-12 years as you set and reached your goals. Your ability to balance achievement, recreation, and friendship is admirable. The path you have laid out for your life has adventure, hard work, and fun. We’ll be here, on the sidelines cheering you on. You are forever precious to us! Mom and Dad
Genavieve Grimes
Ian Rodriguez
We are so proud of your determination and hard work. You’re a true inspiration - stay true to yourself and stay focused on your goals and you will go far in life. This may be the end of high school, but it is the beginning of the rest of your life! We love you JJ!
Mom, Dad, Nate, Rae and Marcus
Genevieve watching you grow into adulthood has been so incredible! Your family is truly proud of the young woman you are. You have been changing the world since you blessed us with your presence. We can’t wait to see all the good you do! Let your light shine, we love you more than you know!
You have turned into an amazing young man. You can accomplish anything as long as you put your mind to it. We are so proud of you, now go shine bright and conquer the world!
Love, Mom and Dad
Connor Neall Danny Perez -Gomez Devynne Linnell Dorian Gonzalez Dylan Saunders Elijah Moreno Ella Mitchell Emma Faith Philips Emily Rogers Evan Swettenam Felicia Paduganan Arnold Gavin McCrary Genavieve BertiCal
College of the Redwoods
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WIlliam-
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Allison Hernandez
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Jaiden Ralston
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Madison Fanning
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Evan Swettenam
Oklahoma
Samantha
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Renelle Willis
Zaira Gomez marches forward with a megaphone, mixing her two years as Yearbook Editor in Chief (EIC), involvement in two field study collaborative courses (FSC), and her ethnic studies takeaways her senior year, as she shines a light on unheard voices.
Her Ethnic Studies class and FSCs-- including Santa Cruz Island and Joshua Tree-- have created the base for her passion for social aspects of sustainability and being in the field-- which she will focus on in the fall at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). Whereas the leadership skills she has built through four years of dance and yearbook at PRHS were the beginning steps to reach her ultimate goal of bringing education back to Oaxaca, her home country, and beginning a field study that focuses on the indigenous people and how habitat destruction is impacting them in Mexico.
This grand scale plan is typical for Gomez, who thinks outside the box and seeks change, growth, and creativity.
Gomez began as the introverted freshman whose palms began to sweat at the thought of being called on. However, the yearbook program and being the only ninth grader in her intermediate dance class were some of the catalytic events that helped her evolve into the woman who now enjoys the challenge of making her voice heard.
“I watched her push herself out of the background and become a leader in my dance class and on our campus,” said Dance teacher Jennifer Bedrosian, who has had Gomez in her dance classes for the past four years. Gomez started dancing at nine years old at the Paso Robles Youth Arts Center (PRYA), finding inspiration for her future through her instructors.
“[Dance] has really built me into the leader I am today… when you inspire someone to move and be creative with their own bodies it becomes significant,” said Gomez, who has participated in more than 50 dance numbers and has choreographed around 15 dances starting her freshman year-- including homecoming halftime shows, intermediate and advanced dance shows, and dance showcases at PRYA.
Carmesi Dando Una VozZaira Gómez avanza con un megáfono, mezclando sus dos años como Editora en Jefe del Anuario (EIC), su participación en dos cursos colaborativos de estudio de campo (FSC) y sus estudios étnicos se llevan en su último año, mientras arroja luz sobre voces desconocidas.
Su clase de Estudios Étnicos y FSC, incluidos Santa Cruz Island y Joshua Tree, han creado la base para su pasión por los aspectos sociales de la sostenibilidad y estar en el campo, en lo que se centrará en el otoño en la Universidad de California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). Considerando que las habilidades de liderazgo que ha desarrollado a través de cuatro años de danza y anuario en PRHS fueron los primeros pasos para alcanzar su objetivo final de traer la educación de regreso a Oaxaca, su país
Gomez’s natural leadership skills began to thrive as she unintentionally followed in her older sister’s footsteps. Addy Gomez, who was a trailblazer for the yearbook program, passed on the EIC torch to her younger sister after she graduated. Gomez has been EIC of El Roble Yearbook for half of her high school career, where she has won “Yearbooker of the Year” for the past two years.
“Being in Yearbook has made me the person I wanted to be freshman year,” said Gomez, as she steps into her position to lead the class with positivity. Being the head of the program, Gomez is determined to: “get the stories right, produce a diverse and inclusive book, oversee the staff’s progress, and be a leader that encourages the staff to go beyond their limits of creating just a yearbook.”
“[Being EIC] made me want to be the person to bring different perspectives and stories to light,” Gomez said. As she builds the yearbook from scratch, Gomez puts stories in the photos she takes, the spreads she lays out, and the stories she writes. Through interviewing and interacting with peers and adults for coverage, she was able to gain the confidence to branch out in other fields as well.
Her junior year, Gomez joined the Activists Coalition for Tomorrow (ACT) club, where her passion for social justice sprouted. Since then, her Ethnics Studies class has helped that drive bloom.
“Learning even more about my culture through ethnic studies made me feel like my story was worth learning and reading about, it was an amazing way to find myself,” Gomez said. After regaining a connection with her Zapotec heritage through the class, she found the recipe of combining her discovered love for field research and the world’s need for social justice.
“Realizing that even the smallest things can have the biggest impacts is what made me proud to go into this field,” Gomez said. At PRHS she has led a path for untold stories, and as she continues on her career path, Gomez will trailblaze ways to shine a spotlight on the underrepresented.
de origen, y comenzar un estudio de campo que se enfoca en los pueblos indígenas y cómo el hábitat la destrucción los está impactando en México.
Este plan a gran escala es típico de Gómez, quien piensa fuera de la caja y busca el cambio, el crecimiento y la creatividad.
Gómez comenzó como el estudiante de primer año introvertido cuyas palmas comenzaron a sudar ante la idea de ser llamado. Sin embargo, el programa del anuario y ser la única alumna de noveno grado en su clase de danza intermedia fueron algunos de los eventos catalíticos que la ayudaron a convertirse en la mujer que ahora disfruta el desafío de hacer oír su voz.
The movie’s continuous motto is Life Magazine’s: “To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other and to feel. That is the purpose of life.” The main character goes out of his comfort zone and takes courageous risks. Although fictional, this movie helped Gomez see where the passion to seek adventure can take her, and to appreciate even the smallest moments in life. By the end of the movie she wanted to get up out of her seat and travel to places she could never imagine, which grew Gomez’s love of exploring the outdoors.
Dance
Yearbook
International Club
• 2 years Act Club
I watched her push herself out of the background and become a leader in my dance class and on our campus
“
• 4 years
Senior Kelen Macharia is much more than just a student. She’s an inspiration to both her peers and teachers, as well as a shoulder to lean on in times of need. Macharia is an activist, a leader, an inspiration, and most importantly to everyone, a friend. Honors English teacher Robyn Barringer even went as far as to say, “I feel like I’ve probably learned more from her than just from me over the time that I’ve known her.” Macharia is the essence of what it means to be authentic. “She’s that unique soul that I know: never going to forget ever. She’s just made an impact on me,” Barringer said. And it’s not just Barringer that Macharia has impacted over her four years at PRHS.
Senior Kai Lundy has been a longtime friend of Macharia’s, spanning over eight years, first meeting in the fourth grade. “Kelen’s just always has a very like, chill vibe. She’s easy to talk to about anything,” Lundy explained.
No matter who you talk to about Macharia, you’ll find that same response. “Positive,” “encouraging,” and “empathetic” are just a few words that Lundy and BSU Advisor Alyssa Bredensteiner used to describe Macharia’s vast personality.
But things weren’t always this way. When Macharia was just entering PRHS as a freshman, she was a lot more “reserved in terms of her personality. She didn’t really show much of who she was. She was always happy and upbeat and positive, but really focused on her academics and doing the right thing in class,” Barringer explained. “But over the last few years, I’ve really seen her come into her own skin and her own identity and be able to fully be herself at the same time that she’s still being an amazing student. It’s just fun to see her break down some of those walls and laugh and crack jokes and just be who she authentically is.”
“If I were talking to my freshman self, I think I might’ve intimidated myself,” Macharia joked.
Macharia’s humor is extremely hard to match as well. Barringer hysterically explained her obsession over Actor Chris Hemsworth and how “a lot of times, multiple times, when I would leave my room for a moment and she’d come over to my computer and my wallpaper so it would be ‘fat
Chris Hemsworth’” from “Avengers: Endgame.” Alongside her positive and uplifting personality, Macharia has been extremely active in her community, being one of the main voices in the incorporation of PRHS’ Ethnic Studies class, as well as being president of the high school’s Black Student Union. As president, Macharia has made efforts to build a community based on positivity and care for others, one of which involved adopting Oak Street for trash cleanups. Bredensteiner explained that Macharia “called the city, and she found out how we could become volunteers to do a street cleanup and pass on what area would be best for that? And they said, ‘Oh, can you guys do Oak Street,’ which has a lot of trash.’ To which Macharia said, ‘Yeah, we’ll do it.’ And she did, and we’ve been doing that ever since. We finally got a sign because we have been doing it for so long,” Bredensteiner said.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Macharia also tried to help students socialize with one another through creating chalk art. “She wanted to find ways to safely gather,” Bredensteiner said. “We wanted people to be able to talk and so she along with a couple other people created the chalk art event.” This event allowed for students to gather and bond with one another during a time in which many were stuck at home, with many going through a depressive state, according to Bredensteiner.
In addition to being an outspoken leader on campus, Kelen is also an outstanding student and SkillsUSA competitor. She has completed the Healthcare Technical Career Pathway, and was a Regional Medical Mathematics Finalist in SkillsUSA this year. Last year she earned a Gold Medal at the regional level for the Health Knowledge Bowl Competition. Outside of school, Macharia works as a Physical Therapist Aid at Movement For Life, a therapy practice that has offices spanning over three different states. She explained it as “so fun man,” and said that her favorite part about it is that, “It’s like one big family,” Macharia explained.
This fall, Macharia plans to continue her passions for a medical career at UC Irvine, where she will major in Biological Sciences.
Senior Kelen Macharia es mucho más que un estudiante. Es una inspiración tanto para sus compañeros como para sus maestros, así como un hombro en el que apoyarse en momentos de necesidad. Macharia es una activista, una líder, una inspiración y, lo que es más importante, para todas las personas con las que hablé sobre ella, una amiga. La maestra de inglés con honores, Robyn Barringer, incluso llegó a decir: “Siento que probablemente he aprendido más de ella que solo de mí durante el tiempo que la conozco”. Macharia es la esencia de lo que significa ser auténtico. “Ella es esa alma única que conozco: nunca
la voy a olvidar jamás. Ella acaba de tener un impacto en mí”, dijo Barringer. Y no es solo Barringer lo que Macharia ha impactado durante sus cuatro años en PRHS.
El estudiante de último año Kai Lundy ha sido amigo de Macharia desde hace mucho tiempo, durante más de ocho años, y se conocieron por primera vez en cuarto grado. “Kelen siempre tiene una vibra muy relajada. Es fácil hablar con ella sobre cualquier cosa”, explicó Lundy. No importa con quién hable sobre Macharia, encontrará la misma respuesta. “Positivo,” “alentador” y “empático.”
Macharia chose “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” because throughout the movie, Harry Potter emphasizes that “happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” This theme reminds Macharia to never give up hope in social justice and other life challenges, and that happiness can be found even in dark times if you look for it.
• BSU President
• Skills USA 2021 Gold Medal for Regional: Health Knowlege Bowl
• Patient Care Pathway Completer
• Over 4.0 GPA
• Lions Club Award Recipient
She’s that unique soul that I know I am never going to forget. She’s just made an impact on me.
ROBYN BARRINGER
News Editor
History teacher Heather Stover has followed through the campus’ well known phrase “Once a Bearcat always a Bearcat:” she was an alumni of the class 1986 and has been working at PRHS for 20 years. Stover will always be a Bearcat now that she is retiring from her alma mater this June and has always been one through various roles on campus and in the district office.
Stover has been part of the social studies department for the past four years, also teaching English to English learners from the newcomer level to advanced ELL. Stover began her career at PRHS in the English Department as an ELD teacher for 12 years.
Stover also served as a district TOSA –teacher on special assignment – helping teachers around campus and functioning as an instructional coach. She helped PRHS teachers improve the quality of their lessons and students’ language acquisition. Through that experience she learned a lot.
“As an instructional coach, that’s kind of how I approach teaching, too. Everybody has strengths, so rather than try and make everybody the same, how do you capitalize on somebody’s strengths? Because ultimately, that’s what’s going to carry them through in their lives,” she said.
After teaching adults, students and a couple of sections of ELD on campus, Stover rose to a district level admin as the ELD Coordinator. Stover believed in building systems and culture in place for families on campus. One
of her fondest moments, she said, occurred as ELD coordinator working alongside former counselor Xelina Rojas. Both Stover and Rojas set up an English Learner Advisory Council (ELAC) meeting on May 10 – Mother’s Day in Mexico – and the two of them provided flowers to all mothers in attendance.
“It was really rewarding when you feel like you can see people getting empowered and learning about how to participate more in their kids’ education,” Stover said.
She also loved the community aspect of working as a teacher at the high school, seeing her students grow up, and working alongside her colleagues.
Eighteen years ago former teacher Jennifer Brown and current teacher Geoffrey Land started a scholarship after a graduated student named Jose Mora who had died in a car crash. Stover has kept it alive, every year bestowing a scholarship in his name.
Stover’s teaching style has been influenced by many. She had a mentor who told her, “We age every year, but our students don’t.”
Stover is a people-centered teacher, her teaching style was very influenced by the Challenge Day event that continues to this day, originally brought to the high school by former social studies teacher Jeanne Neely. A passion that has come out of the program has been to get people at their various levels to have students reach their highest potential.
“You’re teaching individual people, and you’re teaching them a subject, but they come
first, and they all bring their lives as they walk into the room, their day with them, that night last night, their whole history,” she said.
Stover has realized that meeting kids at their level and working from there has been one of the most effective ways to teach. She has focused on looking for evidence of learning and assigning a grade based off of that. “Grade books are not a good reflection of what a student knows,” she observed.
“She made education something fun rather than boring and exhausting. Every time I was in her class, I didn’t feel like I was reading or taking tests. I felt like I was actually learning. She always had a different method of teaching than most teachers did and that just helped me advance in her class and eventually get an A,” senior Francisco Anaya said.
Stover has enjoyed her time at PRHS but realized that it was important to end her career when she could still give it her all.
“I’m hoping for the next generation of teachers that they don’t give up hope. This career itself is really rewarding, and it’s a great life,” she said.
Stover is looking forward to unpacking and reorienting her life to a different pace after living by a bell schedule her whole career, hoping to slow down and enjoy the beauty of life. She continues to advocate for students and says “Always strive for progress, not perfection! Look for the joy in the smallest moments and daily routines. Focus on learning in all its forms because learning is a human pleasure!”
Spanish teacher Rebecca Morris has made an academic impact at PRHS and will be retiring from the district June 10. Morris taught Spanish with particular success: in her nine years of teaching AP Spanish at PRHS only four of her students have not passed the exam. Most earn 4s and 5s and the four nonpasses faced struggles from distance learning. Morris is retiring from a total career of 43 years in teaching. She started off in Spain’s high schools, teaching English as a foreign language and Spanish to native speakers. Her California teaching career began at Santa Monica Community College; then she taught for 12 years in Atascadero.She also taught Spanish part time at Cuesta College for eight years..
Morris explained she thought often as a teacher how to present material in different
ways: to take all the raw material that kids brought to class and help shape it into something that would lead them to their academic potential.
Students say that they felt very prepared.
“She helped me understand Spanish and in turn it has helped me interact with my family a lot better,” junior Paula Uribe said.
Junior Nolan Severson also grew from her instruction.
“She really helped me speak Spanish better and taught me words that are more advanced than I had learned and a lot of grammar help. My spanish has improved just how I speak the language in general,” he said.
Her fondest memories have been seeing her students(a few) freshmen as well as sophomores and upperclassmen score a fives on the AP Spanish test. She believes that
everyone can learn oral language. After all, we all have a native language. She has had kids with processing problems do very well in Spanish class, and she always feels very proud of all her students accomplish in a year.
“I think the longer you teach, the better you get, especially if you enjoy the process of teaching and interacting with kids. You learn how to streamline, and you also learn how to infuse the material with new things you’ve learned to keep them interested,” Morris said.
“It’s bittersweet to leave because it feels like we have a family here. Especially those of us who’ve been here 20 or more years, but at the same time, I’m really looking forward to not having to live by a bell schedule.”
I think the longer you teach, the better you get, especially if you enjoy the process.
REBECCA MORRIS
HEATHER STOVER
Our foreign exchange student give their final goodbyes to an amazing year abroad
by Kalista Peterson & Sienna Ramos
Favorite Place: Starbucks, Avila Beach, Izzie’s car
Future Plans: Stay with Izzie Stemper, go back to high school in Spain
Favorite Memory: Prom, swim team, 18th Birthday Party
“I found really amazing people here that I will never forget.”
Favorite Place: Cayucos, where he enjoys skating and surf
Future Plans: College at Westcliff Irvine with a surf scholarship
Favorite Memory: Trip to Hawaii with his host family “I’ve been in amazing places and having the time of my life, living the American dream.”
Favorite Place: Downton San Luis Obispo & Paso Robles
Future Plans: FInish high school in Japan, eat Japanese food
Favorite Memory: School dances such as Prom, Homecoming, and Winter Formal
“I have experienced special things in Paso that I cannot experience in Japan.”
Favorite Place: San Francisco
Favorite Place: Cayucos shipwreck
Future Plans: Spending time with family at home
Favorite Memory: Business trip to Santa Cruz
“See as much as you possibly can.”
Favorite Place: Downtown Park
Future Plans: Explore Italy with her family
Future Plans: Finish high school in Germany, travel to Vietnam
Favorite Memory: Trips with family and friends
“I met so many people, saw new places, and experienced the culture. All these together made my year so amazing.”
Favorite memory: Experiencing all of the Christmas traditions “We’re happy, free. confused and lonely in the best way.”
Ortega chose this movie not because of its tragic story but because of its appreciation of nature and the representation of backpacking. Into The Wild depicts a young man, Chris McCandless, venturing out into nature on a hitch hiking trip to hike the Stampede trail in Alaska. Ortega chose this movie to show his love of backpacking and nature.
• 4.3 GPA, 3.95 GPA-Top Cat
• Building and Trades CTE pathway completer
• AP Spanish - Seal of Biliteracy
• Skills USA winner - First-year regionals junior and senior year, 3rd in state junior year in carpentry
• CSF cord, Skills USA cord
Diego Ortega finds joy trekking through the wilderness, exploring the diversity of nature, and accepting the physical challenge of backpacking and hiking through many difficult trails. Ortega has grown increasingly passionate about saving the environment as he plans to pursue a major in environmental Earth and Soil Sciences at California Polytechnic State University to become a researcher for an environmentally focused magazine such as National Geographic. His family was ecstatic when he was accepted into Cal Poly, as a first-gen U.S. citizen, his family has been very proud of his successes and are hopeful for his future.
“My family has supported me a lot because they want me to be the first person in the family to go to college. They’ve always thought that college is the best way to be successful in life. So I want to do well in college so then my siblings can follow,” Ortega said.
Ortega has excelled in many different areas, whether it be academically, physically, or artistically he excels in everything he puts his mind to. “He is always thinking, planning, asking questions. Diego is also incredibly talented in ceramics and construction. He has that “Jack of all Trades” mentality, he will be successful wherever he lands because he hasn’t pigeon-holed himself as only an academic,” GEO teacher John Paul Ewing said.
Ortega has trekked miles this year with Ewing and classmates in The Global Environmental Options (GEO) class on hikes such as Montaña de Oro (Sep. 23, 7 miles), The Pinnacles (Oct. 27, 11 miles), Cuesta Ridge (Dec 18, 16 miles), Big Sur ( Feb 19-20, 15 miles), Arroyo Seco (Mar 4-5, 10 miles), and the Trinity Alps (May 2128, 30-40 miles).
by accident: Ewing expressed how he hopes every one of his students can become as passionate about nature as Diego.
“No one will protect what they don’t care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced. I fully intended for all my students to experience the wonder of our planet and foster a connection to wild places,” Ewing said.
The Field Studies Collaborative course at Joshua Tree made Ortega realize he wants to pursue a future in environmental research as they studied the condition of the Joshua Trees via their height and the blooming of their flowers.
“I would love to do research. That’s the thing that I’m interested in because you actually get to be outside and do the stuff that scientists do. So doing Joshua Tree field studies collaborative, I was able to do the research on the Joshua trees, which was really fun and interesting and taught me what my job will most likely be like,” he said.
We’re destroying our Earth and I want to try and educate people on how bad we’re treating it and how we can help so then it can replenish itself
“Ortega moved to Paso Robles from Aguascalientes, Mexico, in 6th grade, a drastic change from his hometown. Ortega knew very limited English, had a teacher who assisted him in translations during school, and required him two years to develop competent English skills. He was re-classified as a fully bilingual Spanish and English speaker in 2018. Having always been a relatively confident and outgoing person it was easy for Ortega to make friends despite the language barrier. Ortega’s close friend Obed Uzeta (12) shared what their friendship has been like throughout the years.
“I’ve known Diego since 6th grade. When he first moved here, we bonded over soccer and because I could talk to him in Spanish,” Uzeta said,
Entering high school Ortega was hesitant to take higherlevel classes because he was worried he would not be able to understand the course material and would fall behind, but he overcame this fear freshman year by taking a risk and enrolling in Science Academy 1 Honors. He continued to excel academically . In his senior year, he took AP Spanish, passing with an A and receiving his Seal of Biliteracy at graduation. He has also completed the Construction CTE pathway by taking BITA 1-3 and won first-year regionals junior and senior year, and 3rd in state junior year in carpentry.
Out of all the courses he’s taken Ortega has become extremely passionate about nature and thanks Ewing for helping him love and value the natural world. This was not
“He’s very passionate about nature and making the world a better place. He puts others before himself and cares about his friends and family a lot. I admire how driven he is in everything; he plans things and goes through with it.”
Ortega’s energy impacts everyone he meets, friends and teachers alike. “Diego has an energy and enthusiasm that is unmatched in the class. He is always ready to engage in class discussions. On hikes, he is prepared for everything... Want to go do an extra couple miles up that hill? Sure! Want to look for a waterfall? Absolutely!” Ewing said.
As Ortega continues to grow in his environmental passions and improves he looks back on how far he has come with pride and confidence awaiting the future of our earth that he fights to protect.
Diego Ortega encuentra alegría caminando por la naturaleza, explorando la diversidad de la naturaleza y aceptando el desafío físico de hacer mochileros y caminar por muchos senderos difíciles. Ortega se ha vuelto cada vez más apasionado por salvar el medio ambiente, ya que planea obtener una especialización en Ciencias Ambientales de la Tierra y el Suelo en la Universidad Politécnica Estatal de California para convertirse en investigador de una revista enfocada en el medio ambiente como National Geographic. Su familia estaba encantada cuando lo aceptaron en Cal
Poly, como ciudadano estadounidense de primera generación, su familia ha estado muy orgullosa de sus éxitos y tiene esperanzas para su futuro. La clase Global Environmental Options (GEO) ha ayudado a Ortega a encontrar su pasión por la naturaleza a través de caminatas como Montaña de Oro (23 de septiembre, 7 millas), The Pinnacles (27 de octubre, 11 millas), Cuesta Ridge (18 de diciembre, 16 millas), Big Sur (19-20 de febrero, 15 millas), Arroyo Seco (4-5 de marzo, 10 millas) y Trinity Alps (21-28 de mayo, 30-40 millas).
Senior Diego Ortega shares his passions for protecting the enviornment and how he’s going to achieve it
At the age of eight Ceci Martinez watched Rocky for the first time and fell in love with the series. Though the intense fight scenes leave her on the edge of her seat to this day, the real pull of this movie is Martinez’s kinship to Rocky Balboa. Both are fierce competitors who, no matter how many hits they take, will get back up to fight another day. Rocky is a story about perseverance and Martinez is an overcomer.
Ceci Martinez climbs the mountain of self-doubt to raise her fist triumphantly at its peak.
by Malia Gaviola, Editor-in-ChiefTo Cecilia Martinez, the past does not define her; it motivates her. Coming into highschool, Martinez carried with her a low self-esteemed caused by bullies and doubt. And at the end of her four years Martinez is leaving as an Early Childhood Development pathway completer, a three time state gold medalist for Skills USA, a four year Advanced Dance star, four year varsity golf player, four year basketball player, and an overall a compassionate, loyal, determined young woman. Though she is miles away from the girl with low self-esteem caused by bullies and struggles with doubt, Martinez remembers the grit needed to overcome those years.
“In middle school… I didn’t really care about school. Math was a definite struggle of mine and so not doing good in math also reflected on my other classes as well. I didn’t have confidence in my abilities,” Martinez said. “But, [my parents] have always taught me that failure is not the end. It’s the beginning and where you really build your character.”
Martinez described her turning point was competing Skills USA her freshman year in “20 Second Elevator Story.” Martinez changed her perspective on herself and her capabilities.
“SkillsUSA absolutely changed my life. Mrs. Matthysse asked me one day [to compete] and I thought ‘why me?’ I didn’t think of myself as a good academic student,” Martinez said. “So when I won gold at state, I just got a sense of confidence in myself. I thought , ‘Maybe this is something that I could start like working on and get good at.’”
She would compete in SkillsUSA for the next three years, winning Gold at regionals for “Prepared Speech” her sophomore year, Gold at for state “Prepared Speech” her junior year, and Gold at state for “Early Childhood Education” her senior year.
Martinez is committed to Baylor University majoring in Elementary Education, different from the career as a nurse or psychiatrist she planned herfreshman year. But Brenda Matthysse, the adviser for the ECE pathway and coordinator of the Bearkittens program, gave Martinez the unique opportunity of becoming a Bearkitten student teacher her freshman year
“It just seemed like a good fit to have her go with us as a freshman. She really found kind of a home and family here very quickly in her freshman year,” Matthysse said, having known the Martinez family for several years, but getting to know Ceci through her involvement. “She was able to be mentored by a lot of older seniors who took her under their wing and now she’s been doing that with younger students this year.”
• 4 Years Basketball
• 4 Years Bearkittens
Teacher & Pathway Completer
4 Years Varsity Golf
• 3 Skills USA State Gold Medals
A Cecilia Martínez, el pasado no la define; la motiva. Al ingresar a la escuela secundaria, Martínez llevaba consigo una baja autoestima causada por los acosadores y las dudas. Y al final de sus cuatro años, Martínez se va como completadora del camino del Desarrollo de la Primera Infancia, tres veces medallista de oro estatal para Skills USA, estrella de Danza Avanzada de cuatro años, jugadora de golf universitaria de cuatro años, jugadora de baloncesto de cuatro años y una una joven compasiva, leal y decidida. Aunque está a kilómetros de distancia de la niña con baja autoestima causada por
Before she was accepted into the Bearkittens program, Martinez had a pre-existing love for children and a strong sense of empathy derived from the way she was raised, specifically growing up with a cousin with autism and a mom who taught high school with passion: PRHS Psychology teacher Jennifer Martinez
“Regardless of any difficulties or disabilities that you have I’m not going to look at those. I’m going to look at you on the inside,” Martinez said. “I have a defensive side where I always defend my cousin when I see people disrespecting him because of his disabilities. I’ve always been that person. When I was little, I used to have him hold my hand out in public.”
Matthysse sees that effort to make connections and look inside in every interaction Martinez has with a bearkitten student.
“She’s very intentional about emotionally connecting to children. And that’s just been just a huge difference,” Matthysse said. “Ceci is so good at making those connections, and making a child feel welcome and valued. It’s just a real gift that she has.”
“I want to be that person that instills that confidence in children at a young age,” Martinez said explaining why she want tot be an elementary school teacher. “And I just I find like young kids so interesting, because they have so many interesting things to say. The things I hear from the some of the kids, it’s like ‘Where did you come up with that?’”
Senior Jenna Tatman is a lifelong friend of Martinez and highlighted Martinez’s dedication to Bearkittens, SkillsUSA, and goals in general.
“[Martinez has] dedication, but not just the typical dedication. Anything she puts her mind to and she wants to be a part of she gets it done and is always with it… especially with Bearkittens,” Tatman said, as a fellow teacher.
Mother Jenny Martinez, has been there for every Advanced Dance show, halftime spectacle, golf-match, and basketball game. When talking about her daughter’s journey to selfconfidence, tears of pride sprung to Martinez’s eyes. “The biggest thing was to just do your best. But, as long as you are working hard on your path to be successful, then that’s all I can ask it for,” Martinez said. “I’m super proud. She far exceeded my and her own expectations of what we thought she could achieve. I feel lucky to have her.”
As Ceci Martinez graduates and begins the next of her life, she looks at who she was in middle school and smiles at this girl with warmth. Martinez accepts her past struggles and will use them as a learning opportunity to overcome any obstacle.
los acosadores y lucha con la duda, Martínez recuerda la determinación necesaria para superar esos años.
“En la escuela secundaria… realmente no me importaba la escuela. Matemáticas fue una lucha definitiva para mí y, por lo tanto, no hacerlo bien en matemáticas también se reflejó en mis otras clases. No tenía confianza en mis habilidades”, dijo Martínez. “Pero, [mis padres] siempre me han enseñado que el fracaso no es el final. Es el comienzo y donde realmente construyes tu personaje”.
Keira, words cannot express how excited we are for you to begin this new chapter. The last few years have not been without their struggles but YOU MADE IT! You have shown us what you are made of (which we never really doubted from the girl who always wanted to “Dooed it myself”). Believe in yourself now as much as you believed in that fierce, independent little girl and you will be just fine. Remember we will always be your biggest fans and will forever love you mo’! Love Mom, Dad, Ian and Gram
Sass, we are SO proud of you! Your senior year has been full of challenges and you have faced them with grace and grit. Your smile lights up a room. You are a difference-maker in the lives of others. Your hard work has paid off and we are so excited for your adventure to your dream school, San Diego State! In the words of one of our favorites, “I love that journey for you.”
Congratulations Johnny! We love you and are so proud of you! Thanks for all the good times and helping us have a great family life. Even as a little kid, you were great at listening to your own intuition. It will serve you well in all you do! Go teach UCSC how the new generation does it! Say hello to Mom and Dad’s favorite spots!
Love from the Seden-Hansens xoxo
We’re so proud of you! As you head off to college, remember these Rules of Life: SMILE-It always works out in the end! BE KIND-You have the power to make people feel good! DON’T GIVE UP-If it doesn’t work the first time, find another way! DON’T COMPARE-Everyone’s on a different journey! AVOID NEGATIVITY-Avoid negative thoughts, situations, and people! TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY AND MIND-One struggles to survive without the other! You got this! Love, Mom and Dad
Justin: You have become a dear member of our family and one of the “Bros” these past nine months. We thank you for expanding our world to include Bamberg, Germany. You have been the best ever brother to Evan and son to us. Thank you for your epic lasagna meals and your dry sense of humor bringing us many laughs. This is not goodbye….just see you later. You will always be part of our family! Love, Nancy and Mike
Congratulations Jordan Marie! We are so proud of you and so excited to have a high school graduate. Go Class of 2022!! You are an amazing person who shines, and we are very proud of all of your hard work and all you have accomplished. We look forward to watching your journey in life and we know that you will succeed in whatever you choose to do. We love you so much, Mom, Dad, Gracie, Kyler and Conner
You have a spirit like no other. I am so incredibly proud of all you have accomplished and overcome these last few years. You are an old soul and wise beyond your years and have dealt with so much, yet handled yourself beautifully, and have become a lovely young lady. Your father is no doubt watching every move and over the moon with pride and love for you. You will always be his “puddy baby” and my baby girl. Love, Mom
Congratulations Javon!! We are so very proud of you! All of your hard work and dedication has paid off!! The sky is the limit! You can do whatever you put your mind to! Never forget that!! Love always, Mom, Jaeden, Grandma, and Grandpa
Liberty SeebartLiberty Rose Seebart, Over the years you’ve blessed us with laughter (geography balls), tears (only when everyone else is crying) & some stellar advice, which we think should be shared with everyone; “coaches don’t play.” Here’s to you, Bearcat! Love, Mom, Dad, Lil, Linds, Declan, & Tristan
Landen Ross
Congratulations! You did it! I hope your dreams take you where ever you want to go... to the corners of your smiles, the highest of your hopes, and to the most special places your heart has ever known. I love you, Mom
We are so proud of your accomplishments but more so of you as an exceptional person all-around. Genuine, courageous, smart, a good friend, son and brother. You will do amazing things!
Lily OrtizGoosie we are so proud of you and your accomplishments. You are a wonderful sister, a loving daughter and the best friend anybody would be lucky to have. You keep our world turning. We are so grateful that we were blessed with you. You are so witty and I love your perspective on the world. WE LOVE YOU!!!! Mommy, Daddy, Mavrito Burrito and Pooh Bear.
Our Dearest Jocelyn, We are so very proud of you! You have overcome a lot in your life, and you do it with a smile and so much grace! You are going to go on to do big things in this world! Party Rock kid!! Love Mom and Dad
This is it, You did it! I hope you take these next two weeks to reflect and appreciate how much you have accomplished in your 18 years. We are SO proud of you, your hard work, and determination. Although we are sad that this stage is ending we are so excited to see what comes next. Cheers to new adventures, new memories and adulting! We love you baby girl.
Jenelle, our precious angel. You have grown into an amazing young woman who has overcome so much and is a light to everyone around you. Your gentle spirit is contagious. We are so proud of your Volleyball, Basketball, FCA, and Bearkitten accomplishments. Your love for children will guide you to a fulfilling future. We couldn’t be more proud. Love, John, Mom and the tribe
We are so incredibly proud of you and excited for you to head out on a new course in life. You should be proud of all you’ve accomplished so far. You are an amazing person and our lives are better with you in it. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of knowing you and loving you!
Love Mom, Papa, and Kelsey
We are beyond proud of the woman you have become! You have overcome many adversities and you have shined through them. You are unbreakable. You have excelled in sports, education, leadership and with your family, friends and teammates. People are blessed to know you and be loved by you. We know you will accomplish amazing things in your future. We love you
Jacey Girl! John, Mom and the tribe
Jake Westenberger Jake Morones Javon Simms Janelle Loewen Jenna Tatman Jocelyn Gonzalez John Seden-Hansen Jordan Barnaby Jordan Marie Weyrich Justin Zheng Kaitlyn Hebrard Katie Ann Dunn Keira Grace
Carr
Since you were an infant, you’ve been determined and opinionated and that has made you the strong woman you are today. We’re extremely proud of you and all the hard work and dedication you’ve devoted to your studies, and we’re excited to see what your future holds. The world is lucky that you’ve chosen to go explore it and share your love and knowledge. Love you, Sillies! -Mom & Dad
Kelly Oyler
Malia, we are so proud of you! Ever since you were a little girl you have had a kind heart, strong will, brilliant mind and wonderful creative ability! You will change this world for the better with your courage and ambition!
Love you Yaya! From Daddy, Mom, Sissy, Luckystar and Joy!
We are so proud of you! You have grown and blossomed as an amazing, loving , brave, and kind hearted young lady. We can’t wait to see all your accomplishments over the coming years. Love, Mom, Dad & Cody
From birth Kelly has been a joy in our family and has grown into a beautiful young lady. She is always striving to be the best version of herself. She is not always the cleanest, but she is the loudest, when it comes to playing music. Kelly is outgoing, thoughtful, and caring and is constantly doing all she can for others. She is self-motivated and loves challenging herself. We love you and we are so proud of you.
Reese Kobayashi
You did it! It’s been a tough couple of years, but you made it. We love you so much and look forward to seeing the great things you will do in the future.
Love Aunt Jill and Unc
We are so proud of you Reese. You have grown to be an independent, smart, and genuine young woman who we know has great things to come in the future. We can’t wait to cheer you on in your next adventures at TCU. “May your dreams always be bigger than your fears”. Love Mom, Dad, & Devin
We’ve watched in amazement as you’ve grown into the thoughtful and kind young man you are today. We are excited to see what the future holds for you. The sky’s the limit Kiddo!! love Mom & Dad
Our witty girl. These past 18 years have been the most memorable in our lives. Every milestone in your life, we’ve watched you in awe and with so much pride. We’d do anything to do it all over again. This next chapter at WSU will be exciting, and we are thrilled for you to have this experience. Keep staying true to yourself and your values. Congrats, baby girl! We love you so much, Mom, Dad, and Derek.
Molli Nicolds
Molli Pearl, Your story so far has created a young woman who is adventurous, compassionate, creative, talented and all around beautiful. Those who will meet you will find themselves blessed. Enjoy your journey. The rest is still unwritten…..
Oh! The places you will go and the people you will see! You are about to embark on a fun and joyous time in your life. We are so proud of your dedication and hard work thus far. We can’t wait to see where this next milestone will lead you. With much love, your Momma and Quinn
Love You Seth Babb! Couldn’t be prouder of the young man you’ve grown up to be. I’ve watched you question spiders, chase lizards, hit baseballs, fight through a couple of seasons of football, excel at soccer, develop a nasty curve ball, be a good friend & team-mate, shred a mountain, work diligently, study hard, enjoy the outdoors, learn to drive--all of that & you’re just getting started!! Your next adventures await! So excited for you! -Dad
Molli, your dad and I are so proud of how you jumped into public school for the first time in 9th grade and have rocked it! You found your niche with Theater and we know you will take that with you into your future! Keep on sharing your smile with the rest of the world!! We Love you! Dad, Jennifer and the tribe!
You have been thrown a curve ball throughout different stages of your life, and you have continued to knock them out of the park. You have ganas, and having ganas is what has allowed you to be the young man you are today. No doubt it will lead you to the successful man you are meant to be. We couldn’t be more proud.
Love Mom and DadIf you’re not 1st you’re last! Well we all know that’s not true…2nd, 3rd, 4th or even in the top 10 is good. All kidding aside, you are a beautiful, talented, kind spirited young women. The world is going to be an awesome place with you making it a little better every day. All the best for your continuing education & stay classy! Love Dad
Estoy orgulloso de ti. Te quiero mucho. No puedo esperar a ver lo que nos depara el futuro. Curran
Madison, I have watched with admiration as you’ve grown into the incredible person you are today…and now I’m watching with pride and anticipation to see what you become. You have grown up to be someone I truly admire…but why did it happen so fast? Enjoy the ride babe…and never forget your way back home. You are braver than you think, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think. I love you always. Mom
We are so proud of the young man you’ve become! The last 18 years have flown by, watching you go from Rainbow Bright, to Georgia Brown, to Flamson, and finally, to PRHS. You have brought us all so much laughter, fun, and pride as a student, a soccer player, a friend, and as a great human being in general. You generally care about the important things in this world and we cannot wait to see what comes next for you, Baby O! We love you! Mom, Dad, Thomas, and Emily
From the 2 year old who said: “I do it myself” but still needed a little help. To a Graduate who states “I can do it myself” and truly can do it herself. We are so proud of you!! As your next adventure begins, always remember to work hard, play harder, ask for help when needed(Can’t do everything by yourself), lead don’t follow, and above all TRUST GOD!! Love you Moster - Mom & Dad
Solana Fairburn Zoey Rainey Lucas Henson Lucas, Lucas Barela-Gonzalez Luke Martin Madison Fanning Maila Gaviola Madison Tosti Molli Nicolds Salma Tidwell Reese Hartley Seth Babb Sydni Owen Grandoli
If you had met Leah Schwartzenberger as a freshman back in Fall of 2018, you wouldn’t recognize her. Once a quiet 14 -year-old entering the intimidating world of l, she is now leaving as an Honors/AP student with an aspiration of becoming an actor and a 4.5 GPA.
Theater teacher Marcy Goodnow, who has taught Schwartzenberger for all of her four years at PRHS, recognizes her as brave, creative, and talented, and she has gained some of these characteristics over her years as a high school student. Under her belt is four years of theater - Acting I, II, III, IV, and a role as student director this year. She’s also been dancing her entire life, starting when she was three, and competing when she was four. She’s pirouetted through two years of Advanced Dance - plus a third year as a beginning dance teachers’ assistant All of this she plans to take with her towards a career in acting and Cuesta College classes after graduation - not Cal Poly like she initially planned.
This year, Schwartzenberger took on a huge role as the student director of the childrens’ play, Alice in Wonderland, put on by Acting II. Typically directed by Marcy Goodnow, the show has historically been a childrens’ musical, with it being Willy Wonka
Jr. in February of 2020. The show was put on soon before the school shut down due to Covid-19. Goodnow has loved having Schwartzenberger by her side this year, and she has seen a lot of change and growth in her since she was a freshman.
“I guess I’ve just seen her choose to be brave. Like, when she was younger, she was just really quiet. She’s quiet, but she’s intentional. She takes chances,” Goodnow remarked, “And that’s where I’ve seen the most growth - she just decided, I’m not gonna let fear hold me back; let me see what I can do.”
Schwartzenberger has loved the experience as well. Being the first ever student director for Acting II is something she’s enjoyed, and seeing the flip side of theater has been really enriching for her.
After graduation caps fly, Schwartzenberger will finally begin this new part of her life as an actor. She’ll chaine turn into classes, workshops, and training for her acting and dance skills. Behind her will be her experiences at PRHS, and ahead of her will be a life following her dreams of continuing to perform on the stage.
ByMichelleRosas,Webassistant
Winning dance competitions and taking a total of 12 AP / honors classes throughout high school, senior Reese Hartley surpasses the average GPA ( 3.0, according to Prepscholar) with a GPA of 4.5. Apart from prospering academically, Hartley has also been very involved with the school and school related clubs. “I also just like being involved in campus life and feeling like I’m really connected to the school,’’ Hartley
At the beginning of the year she attended Equity Club consistently, is president of the Dance Club, and is also a member of Crimson Crew. Hartley has been a part of the Leadership program for six years. She mentions that it has been a big part of her life.
She enjoys school and English is her favorite subject. She likes the subject so much because she really enjoys reading and writing a lot.
“I actually enjoy all the books that the school makes us read. And annotating and responding to the prompts.” She has also been taking college English classes for the past two years.
Hartley is extremely ardent for dance.
“It’s a really good way to show my emotions and how I feel on the inside. It makes me feel free and happy.”
She will be pursuing her love for dance after high school because she is going to TSU, Texas Cristian University. She will
be majoring in modern dance, an endeavor she has pursued for ten years and has been competing for eight.
She has been competing for the Class Act Dance Company and Artistry in Motion. She’s been in Advanced Dance for four years at the high school and has been on board for three out of those four years.
Her favorite types of dance are ballet and contemporary. Contemporary dance is what she is best at and ballet is more challenging for her. However, she loves them both equally.
Jennifer Bedrosian has had Hartley for four years in two classes, leadership and dance, but has known her for longer. She has built a strong bond with her.
”She’s someone that I as a teacher can have good conversations with.”
Bedrosian describes Hartley as a very determined person who is a good role model. In dance Bedrosian describes her as a powerful dancer with beautiful technique.
“To me she is like a second teacher in my dance room.” She also added that she is super supportive and encouraging. In Bedrosian’s Leadership class, she showed consistency and weekly contributions. Bedrosian said Hartley would be the first person to arrive at an event and the last one to leave, making sure everything got done.
Hartley has been in charge of all the school dances and events.
“What I love about her is that I know that I can count on her to be there to make sure it happens,” Bedrosian said.
Between captaining the Varsity soccer team and spending long nights completing mounds of homework, PRHS class of 2022 Valedictorian Tyler Woodard excels at keeping his motivation high and his achievements higher. As the highest academically achieving student in his class, Woodard balances many commitments but the challenges of his busy schedule only drive him to work harder.
“In general I think that my stoic mindset has motivated me to stay on track and not become a victim of circumstance,” Woodard said in regards to the year and a half lack of instruction in 2020-21.
“Even with soccer and other commitments I don’t mind staying up until midnight to finish whatever I need to or study.”
Finishing off his high school career in six AP
classes, Woodard has maintained a 4.83 GPA weighted, and a 4.92 GPA unweighted for all his years at PRHS. Woodard’s teachers describe him as an intelligent, hardworking student, and natural-born leader.
“He is a quiet, unassuming leader in the classroom who works extremely well with others. Anytime you have a student of Woodard’s caliber participating the lessons are enhanced by the level of intelligence and insight he possesses,” Econ and Government teacher Matthew Drake said. “It has been an honor and privilege to work with such a dedicated and talented student. I look forward to hearing great things about Woodard in the future.”
When he’s not knee-deep in his studies, Woodard dedicates much of his time to soccer related activities. He was the captain of PRHS Boys Varsity soccer team, participates in club
soccer, and coaches special needs AYSO soccer.
Girlfriend of five years Emily Rogers shared her pride not only for Woodard’s achievements academically, but also for who he is as a person. “I’m really proud of him. I’m proud of him for pushing himself so hard and even though he’s really good academically, he’s also a really good person,” said Rogers.
After highschool, Woodard will attend UCSD (University of California San Diego) to pursue Aerospace Engineering and interning for the school or engineering firm.
“I’ve always been motivated by the desire to get into college for engineering, which has driven me to stay on top of my work,” Woodard said.
This administrative-minded senior who’s earned the Super Senior spotlight has dedicated her high school years to a passion to help others and impact their lives.
Sarah Krumme has been involved in Bearcats Care, ASB as the Staff and School relations director, International Club, Friday Night Live club, and five AP classes in total. She accumulated a 4.2 GPA while completing all her GEDs for her college This administrative-minded senior who’s earned the Super Senior spotlight has dedicated her high school years to a passion to help others and impact their lives. Krumme has been involved in Bearcats Care, ASB as the Staff and School relations director, International Club, Friday Night Live club, and five AP classes in total. She accumulated a 4.2 GPA while completing all her GEDs for her college classes through Cuesta. Krumme plans to attend Cal
Poly as a Speech Therapy major in the fall, being one out of the 11 students attending as well.
With over 200 hours of community service hours – from Trinity Lutheran school, Paws Cause kitten raiser, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and JOOI Club – Krumme finds purpose and satisfaction in serving her community through Peer Communications. According to Krumme, Bearcats Care was her most important activity as she has been able to connect with students and realize the potential they have.
“I still talk to people that I’m not super close with, even if I met them at Bearcats Care they smile at me and we talk and I feel like that’s a difference that I’m proud to have left and that makes me happy,” Krumme said.
Senior Kelli Hopkins is Krumme’s best friend who has noticed the positive impact that she has left. Hopkins has seen the amount of respect
that Krumme has among other students daily by just walking down the halls with her. “She is always thinking about other people. I love how understanding she is and she goes out of her way to just make people comfortable,” Hopkins said Krumme has also held the position as director of Staff and School relations for three years. In the past she attended board meetings to give a report on high school events, activities, and efforts. Through the Superintendent Advisory Board, which she has been a part of for four years, she worked with Superintendent Curt Dubost alongside fellow student representatives of PRHS.
Clayton Melendy has lived in Paso Robles his whole life, creating connections and coming to love the quiet valley town.
Before high school, Melendy was involved in 4H and became passionate about animals and agriculture. He has done FFA for all four years of high school and this year is the FFA secretary. Throughout high school, he has taken many agricultural classes including AG welding 1, 2, and 4, AG business, and Ag Economics, and has developed a love for working with his hands and animals. “AG is really fun because it was like hands-on and I got to learn things. It’s fun to work with animals and grow something cool,” Melendy said.
Entering high school Melendy was afraid of judgment from peers but learned to overcome it by being involved in public speaking. He has done two Creed competitions his freshman year, an advanced team competition in sophomore and Junior year, winning Best Treasurer junior
year, and Officer Team and Extemporaneous Public Speaking competitions in senior year. While FFA is seen as an expensive hobby there is a large revenue gathered when selling. The last calf that Melendy bought was $1,500, then he put $1,000 worth of feed and supplies. Spending around $2,500 the calf was sold for $5,000, doubling the money he put into it and using that money to buy a car and save for his future.
During the 2021 Mid State Fair, Melendy and a team of 10 people sold barbecues and donated the money to the James W. Beck’s Foundation, Legacy Foundation, and then they bought animals and gave all of the meat products to the local food bank and raised a total of $35,000.
Similar to his love of animals Melendy has always had a passion for human connection and understanding. “I just like seeing like, true people like I don’t know, I don’t think like illogical things like all people are horrible, but I think that there’s always something good about somebody. They
by Zoey Rainey, People Editorhave a reason for their madness or something you know-- it’s a nice sentiment,” Melendy said. Mentor and teacher Justin Pickard has expressed a similar though having said, “Clayton has one of the best personalities I have seen in a student. He is so friendly and genuine to everyone he encounters.His best attribute is his relationship building skills and he works so hard to make sure that everyone on a team or a group is staying focused, still having fun, and working towards the group goals.” As Clayton embarks on the unknown of the future he looks forward with hopes of meeting new people and growing in his passion for animals and people.
Favorite Movie?
Favorite Hobbies?
What do you want to be when you grow up?
These seniors ‘remaster’ some of their favorites as they changed from freshman to seniors
Even when its hard, just push through. You got this.
- Ella Hunt
Don’t procrastinate, it will bite you in the a** later on down the road
- Avery Hambly
Don’t think about the past. Just keep moving forward.
- Jake MoronesMove on from past mistakes because if you get stuck on the past, then you’ll never see what the future opportunities hold
- Kyle BonhamSeniors give their advice to the younger classes as they wrap up their final scenes
As I look back and reflect on the last 4 years I have spent in the iconic walls of room 604 -- the journalism classroom -- I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride and joy. From the difficult stories, interviews, and controversial subjects to the late-night shenanigans and everything inbetween, Crimson has taught me to not only be a good journalist but to find meaning and purpose in what I do as a journalist.
Going through high school in the middle of a “pandemic” was a challenge for many, including myself, however, through the experience of distance learning and quarantine, I learned the importance of community and the impact and service journalism provides. As one of the Editors In Chief of Crimson, it was my goal to help guide and encourage my staff to produce meaningful journalism to help inform and inspire our peers, teachers, and community members, and I can confidently say that even in a time of great separation, such as COVID mayhem and at times other politically controversial seasons, my staff has produced factual, meaningful, and inspiring stories.
We have published five issues,including this final Senior Issue, and I couldn’t be prouder of all of the hard work and dedication our staff has poured into these publications. I want to thank my RAMILY -- which is the name we call ourselves as EIC’s that stands for Rayvin, Ashley, and Malia combined with family. Ashley, and Malia, you are the best EIC’s I could ask to work with. You are my true journal-family, and the journa-love will always be flowing for you two. I also want to thank Mount, our amazing Advisor, for inspiring me everyday to be a better leader for our program and a constantly improving journalist.
It has been my greatest pleasure and honor to be a part of this great program we call the Crimson Newsmagazine, and although I am sad to part ways with it, I am confident that it will be left in good hands and will continue to serve our community in an inspiring way.
English was always my least favorite subject growing up, and still is. Being stuck in Mount’s honors english class my freshman year and seeing the journalists hiding in the corner busily typing away seemed like a curse they chose. However, my best friend’s older sister, Ysabel Wulfing, was one of those dreadful upperclassmen and dragged Rayvin and I into Crimson at the end of freshman year and I couldn’t be more grateful she did.
Being able to report about the people that deserve it to the rest of PRHS and sometimes even the whole town has been such an amazing experience. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces and hearing them gossip about the funny picture I got of one of the boys on the football or baseball field has by far been my favorite part of high school. It has made me feel like the work that I do matters, and hopefully I’ve been able to help capture memories for some of my peers to hold on to forever.
Besides seeing what Crimson has done for students outside of the classroom, even more importantly was the impact the class itself had on me. Starbucks runs, getting out of class for ‘Crimson’ tasks, the hundreds of hours poured into 604, and the very late nights, sometimes until 2am (sorry Mount) ultimately shaped my high school experience and who I am now. Finding some of my best friends, Braydon, Bricen and Miguel and strengthening those I already had made all of the work worth it in the end.
When all is said and done, or better yet, written and published, Crimson itself has been the main reason for all of my high school experiences. Meeting new people, adding more stress, and finding my passion for photography that earned me the nickname ‘picture girl’ has truly made me Ashley. Thank you Rayvin, Malia, and every single other person that has pushed me to do my best, especially Mount. If it weren’t for Crimson, I wouldn’t be going to Pepperdine to keep doing sports journalism, or be the person I am today. Eternally grateful for the memories made here. Peace out Crimson.
Iremember when I first saw my name as a print byline. 2019 underneath the headline of “A Champion in Two Languages“, lay by Malia Gaviola, Illustrator. Gripping the paper in my hands, smiling ear to ear I proudly showed it off to my friends and family. I did this. I scheduled each interview, took the pictures, and here it was! A physical, beautiful manifestation of a month’s worth of hard work.
Milestones like these peppered my Crimson experience. First designed page, first convention, NSPA/JEA competition, Senior Issue, directing position… First day as Editor-in-Chief of a paper I had grown to love. Throughout my career as a journalist, the milestones didn’t become less special as I did them more. Likewise, the three years I spent in room 604 have each been unique and exciting in their own special ways. The staff specifically have made the experience worthwhile and I have learned so much from my predecessors. I’d like to thank the leaders that came before me, for pointing at my screen and showing me how to use photoshop as well as the staff this year for being go-getters! I know that when Ashley, Rayvin, and I leave, the paper is in capable hands. To my fellow Editor-inChiefs: I couldn’t imagine my high school experience without you two. Who would’ve thought that meeting two girls at freshman student council would have led to late nights with laughter and crazy ramblings, leading a class together, and five amazing issues?
To Mount, I have never had a teacher like you. You’ve inspired me to reach beyond my own expectations and I am so proud to follow in your footsteps!
With every piece of content I published I sought to contribute to our community and world. From the “Coming Out Against Hate” issue to the Ethnic Studies Newspackage, I’ve always strove to do what makes journalism so powerful: telling ALL the stories. Every student has a unique voice and background,, and it is Crimson Newsmagazine’s job to share those stories with the world. Thank you for letting me tell your story.
Malia Gaviola Ashley Paulsen Rayvin Wulfing
It’s been an honor being a part of the Crimson family for the last three years. I’ve truly cherished every minute with the staff, and hanging out outside of the class. The friendships I’ve made in this class are amazing, and I really appreciate all of you. The family we have is amazing. Even through the pandemic we continued to write stories and that’s amazing to me. You guys are all amazing and I hope the best for all of you, as well as the rest of our senior class. Though we part ways, room 604 will always hold a place in my heart. So thank you all.
3 years Crimson
HM A&E Media
Pathway Completer
2yrs News Director
2 years Crimson Supreme News Writing
6th National Web Design
HM News Story
I’ve learned so much in my Crimson career. You are never on time, no matter how ahead you are, you can always work harder, you can always do more. That seems difficult… because it is. But creating a product, something that I will cherish for years to come, is the reward. The long nights, the sacrifices, were all worthwhile by creating amazing journalism with amazing people by my side. The stories, jokes, and laughs are what make the Crimson program so unique. We are a family. We will always be a family. No class has meant as much to me as Crimson has. Thank you, for giving me a place to call home.
When I think about my high school career, I think of Crimson. All the issues we have produced and all the awards we’ve worked hard for will be remembered, I’m so proud of each and every one of us. Being on staff for the past three years has been so memorable, and the family like friendships that I’ve made through the late nights and deadlines will stay with me long after I graduate. As we move forward on our own paths, I’m so grateful I had the pleasure of knowing you all. Thank you guys, and thank you room 604, for being a second home to me.
3 years Crimson
1st Place Sports Package
1st Dig. Package
2 HM Feat. Package
HM Feature Spread
Pathway Completer
2 years Crimson
1st Dig. News Package
2 HM Feat. Package
1yr Carmesi Director
Being in Crimson the last 2 years has been an incredible journey. Getting to know the staff and building strong friendships among one another has been my favorite part of being here. I will forever cherish the valuable knowledge I have learned in room 604. The legacy we leave behind on print will be remembered and appreciated for future bearcats. Thank you all for making my Crimson experience unforgettable. I wish you all the best, and I know you will all accomplish great things in life.
ever in my life would I have imagined myself writing for my high school’s newspaper, but here I am celebrating it. Over the past two years of my experience in Crimson, I have written stories I’ll always remember and made friendships with people I’ll never forget. I hope I was able to leave an impact for my piers in the class and the individuals who have gotten to read and be apart of my stories just like the impact they’ve left for me. Thank you for everyone who has been apart of my high school story, I’ll be looking forward to writing the next.
Best Carmesi Director
Asusena Uribe
Crimson hasn’t felt like just another class to get work done for, but like a great team bonding. The honor of being in the class for the past three years has been great. I’ve learned a lot, from technical skills to communication skills that I will take on with me into my future career. I know our print and website will leave an impact. Producing meaningful media that the community enjoys has been amazing. Covid cut Crimson about two years short, yet it was remarkable that we still put out prominent media. Crimson will always be a class I will remember and treasure forever. I’m glad I got to be a part of the Crimson family!
High school went by in the blink of an eye, I was always so excited to grow up and be independent but now that I’m here I wish I was a kid again. I’ve been so blessed to be a part of yearbook and crimson and I’ve loved all of the work I’ve gotten to do and the skills I’ve learned. If you’re interested in doing journalism go for it because your voice matters and it’s amazing to create media since it’s so fundamental to our society. I’m so lucky that I get to do what I love with such amazing people. Though we have our journa-family disputes I wish nothing but the best for all of you. I’ll never forget the people I’ve grown up with and have the pleasure of graduating with. Best of luck, Class of 2022!
2 years Crimson
1st Dig. Media Package
1st YRBK Academic Spread
3rd Print Media Package
HM Feat. Package
Media Pathway Completer
by Serenity Wulfing, Social Media
Senior Reily Lowry is tri-sport athlete, a record breaker in the water and a CIF winner two times
The stress gnawed on senior Reily Lowry’s wide shoulders as the tensity began to arise on October 25th, 2021. With a powerful egg beat, he towered over his opponent, spun, and broke free for a millisecond. All that was left in between him and the goal was the goalie. Drawing the ball back in the palm of his hand, he surveyed his competition. He popped suddenly and took a shot. He sent the ball shooting across the water from five meters away and he watched with anticipation as it skipped across the chop. The crowd grew silent and watched intently as the ball fired past the goalie and hit the back of the net. The crowd roared and batted their hands, Lowry had just scored his 120th goal of the season. It was a momentous victory, writing him into the record book for the most goals scored in a single season for the Bearcats since 2017.
Lowry explained that he wanted people to admire him for his athletic capabilities and wanted everyone to understand the dedication he put into his sports.
At the beginning of his senior season, his personal goal was to score 100 goals. By the end of the season, Lowry broke the school record for the most goals scored in a single season which was previously held by Zack Tucker in 2017 with a total of 109 goals. He concluded the season with 127 goals on October 26th. With all that stress building up, Lowry said, “it wasn’t like a feeling of happiness. It was more of like, like just like relief. Because I was like ‘finally, I beat it’.”
Wrestling brought another set of achievements. In his freshman year, he was placed on varsity and competed in the 127 weight class, and during his senior year he competed in the 176 weight class.
“The sport that I have fun with most is wrestling, it helps me gain confidence and my competitive spirit emerges and all I think about is just winning and doing my best and showing no signs of fear or nervousness,” Lowry said.
SOONTO
In the movie, Aquaman retrieves the powerful trident because of his humility in the face of his task to unite the seven kingdoms and stop the war. Being the team captain of all three sports, he served the team by checking his ego and using his position to remove barriers and obstacles to performance and excellence of his team.
• Team Captain for Waterpolo, Wrestling and Swim
• CIF Champion Individually
• CIF Champion as a team
• Record Holder for most goals scored in a single season
“I think what inspires me is that I want to have a name for myself, I want to leave an impact. And over the summer, I just remember countless hours of swimming, water polo, weightlifting, and schoolwork, and I just wanted people to remember me for the hard work that I’ve put in,” Lowry said.
It sure helped that he sprouted to a 6’2 height and filled out from lifting and battling in polo practice. He became one of the tallest and heaviest players on the team.
Lowry has played four sports throughout high school. Water polo and wrestling were his high achieving sports, as well as swimming and baseball.
“Water polo is definitely my top sport,” Lowry said, “it’s probably my peak of success.”
He was on JV his freshman year and was a starter for Varsity for the next three years of high school. Lowry received an AllLeague Honorable Mention as a Sophomore on Varsity, 2nd team all-league as a Junior, and First Team all League as a Senior. He has been offensive player of the year for the team the past two seasons, and being an encouraging and wellrespected teammate, he was then chosen to be captain his senior year.
“Reily is a dominant force in the pool and leads naturally by being a top scorer for the team,” said Collin Moore, who has been Reily’s coach for four years. “He has also been one of the more committed players putting in a lot of work with us in the pool and also putting in additional work on his own time to improve his own skill and heighten the performance of our team as a whole.”
While executing each play with a high Waterpolo IQ he is not afraid to be assertive. “I’m not scared to shoot if I need to shoot. I’m not scared if I have to be aggressive. I am determined to help the team win. I don’t give up and I give my best in every game or practice,” Lowry said.
“Being his teammate is a blessing. He brings a sense of inspiration and a feeling of invincibility because when he is doing amazing you’ll do amazing. The thought of having Reily on your side is where the invincibility comes in, because you know you’ll be fine if Reily is there,” Senior Waylon Abernathy said, who has been friends with Lowry since he was in seventh grade.
His confidence in wrestling was proven when he won CIF individually and his team won CIF. Lowry’s unforgettable moment in all of his sports accomplishments was when he competed against an individual from Arroyo Grande on Senior Night. His nervousness was building up as he knew his competitor was going to be difficult to beat but he said that if he set his mind to it he could do anything. The crowd was packed and all eyes were on Lowry. When he stepped up to the mat, he surveyed his opponent and emerged victorious by slamming the AG boy to the mat.
When Lowry steps up to the block and dives into the water his explosiveness surfaces as he kicks and paddles as his life depends on it hoping to place first in his meet. In his senior year of playing, he was elected team captain.
“I don’t really see myself as one of those guys that will just constantly be on you and uses their voice as a way of being your captain. To me I feel like leading by example, is the best kind of leadership you can give. I also think having a connection with your teammates makes everything better,” Lowry said.
While being a tri-sport athlete he maintains a 4.7 GPA and is a jack of all trades. During the winter he snowboards and all months of the year he paddles out to catch waves. Lowry also plays the electric, and acoustic guitar, the bass, and the drums. Lowry has been in the Journalism class for two years at PRHS and has won Honorable Mention for Sports Package, 3rd Place News Publication Cover, 1st Place News Publication Sports Spread, and Honorable Mention for Feature Profile in the Journalism Education Association Competition.
“As someone who sees himself not as an open person, I feel like I express myself through performing in games or events or through my instruments,” Lowry said.
Two CIF wins, one school record, and thousands of memories later Lowry plans to continue to play sports in college. In the fall of 2022, he will be attending Cuesta College for two years and then transferring to a four year to further his education.
“He has a lot of energy in the water and loves the sport which makes him much easier to coach because of his own desire and passion for the sport”
Collin Moore, Coach
“
Director
There’s no dream too big or too small—particularly if water is involved. In the face of the impossible, DiSimone transformed into a senior who crushed school records, earned acceptance to CSUB and sang her way through the season as swim team captain. DiSimone learned that if we were to give up during challenges, we would never reach our dreams.
Tensions are high at the 2022 Central Section CIF Finals for the Women’s 50 yard Freestyle. With the command of the loudspeaker, “Swimmers, take your mark,” Senior Holly DiSimone climbs up onto the diving block and grapples onto the edge, preparing herself for the send off. To the sound of a buzzer, DiSimone explodes off the block with great force, plunging herself into the water. Her synchronized, strong underwater kicks allow her to glide effortlessly ahead of her competition. She breaches the surface, propelling one arm forward and dragging the water behind her, building momentum and intensifying her stroke rate. She drives herself forward with an explosive flutter kick approaching the wall where she then flips into a front somersault and darts back to the direction where she started. The race is close as each swimmer thrashes full speed through the water at arm’s distance. She exerts all of her remaining energy and force into the last 25 yards to get a lead. Regardless of her inevitable fatigue, her persistence to win pushes her to keep swimming full speed. In a blink of an eye, she smashes into the touchpad while the crowd cheers. DiSimone then looks up to the scoreboard to see the results, finishing with a time of 24.40; a new school record has been added to her belt. Setting records and leaving her mark, DiSimone showcased her swim excellence throughout her high school career by leading as a team co-captain and shattering the school’s 50 yard Freestyle record time, the 100 yard Butterfly event twice, and the 200 yard Medley Relay.
she realized she needed to have more balance in her life and swimming was taking up too much time. She was missing out on the things she wanted to do,” said her father Jason DiSimone. “She stopped swimming from August 2019 to July 2020— almost a full year. Most swimmers who stop swimming never return, fewer return to their previous abilities, and even fewer come back faster.”
The following year her mother Katie DiSimone was diagnosed with glioblastoma in early July of 2021 which is a type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord.
“My mom was diagnosed with brain cancer so that’s something that I had to deal with when I got home, but my family is great at supporting each other and making sure that everyone’s staying focused on the things that they need to do. We all know that inevitably life goes on,” she said.
I would definitely say that my coaches, parents, and teammates have made up for the most part of my success, rather than the training itself. I know from experience that swimming takes a lot of mental training, so just having that support from them is really what drove me to achieve all these accomplishments and I couldn’t have done it without them.
During the Covid-19 pandemic she decided to make a comeback for her junior season where she ended up beating her previous 100 yd Butterfly record with a new time of 57.12 during the 2021 CIF Division 1 meet, while also surpassing the 200 yard Medley Relay. She swam her 50 yard butterfly leg with an incredible individual time of 25.98.
Despite these difficult events she was able to continue pursuing her passion for swimming whilst taking care of her mother at home. She was able to end her highschool swim career with a new record that was held previously for 26 years by Kambra Wesch in the 50 Yard Freestyle where DiSimone finished with a record time of 24.40 at the 2022 CIF Division 1 Meet.
Swimming competitively since she was 10 years old, this star athlete has completed over 100 morning swim practices at 6:30 a.m. before school. She continues to spend up to 11.5 hours a week swimming, lifting, and competing in the afternoon with her team. DiSimone’s determined, caring, and loyal attitude towards the sport has driven her to accomplish feats the typical high school swimmer could ever dream of. During her freshman year, she was projected to break the 100 yd Butterfly record, which was set 31 years Poppy Gilman with a time of 58.75. DiSimone ended up crushing the record by a split second with a new time of 58.74—as a freshman.
“Holly’s swim journey has been different from most competitive swimmers. During her sophomore year
“Holly has impacted the team by being an inspirational leader for many of the younger swimmers. She is happy to be an advocate for those that may not always speak for themselves. She is also a motivator because of her impressive athletic ability,” said Mike Sauret, Head Coach of the PRHS women’s swim team. “One of the things that makes Her stand out compared to other swimmers is her selflessness. Holly is always concerned with the needs of others, and always wanted to make the swim team a fun place. Also her incredible ability to make a butterfly look easy certainly is something that stands out about Holly.”
Currently she looks forward to swim collegiately at Cal State Bakersfield, where she will be pursuing Liberal Studies in hopes to become an elementary school teacher someday.
“Holly is the most dedicated and strongest person I have ever met. She’s constantly inspiring our teammates to be the best versions of ourselves in and out of the water, and I don’t know what I’d do without her as a teammate and as a friend,” said senior Ava Hughes, co-captain of the women’s swim team.
Despite challenges, Holly DiSimone is the school’s most powerful swimmer — with big aspirations for her future
With dedication and hard work Division 2 Central Section Cross Country Champion, Charlotte Castelli has led in races since her freshman year in CIF championships for both Cross Country and Track. She is the premier long distance specialist of all Bearcat runners and an obvious choice for silver Bearcathlete.
Castelli won the 2021 CIF Central Section Championship for the 5,000m race with a time of 18:46.9, placing first in one of Cross Country’s most important and competitive races, with hundreds of runners.
This spring Castelli continued to excel by placing second in the Mountain League Championships in both the mile and 2-mile. No other athlete has been able to surpass Castelli with her personal records of 5:19.51 minutes, placing her sixth in the 1600m for track of all time and fourth in the 3200m with a time of 11:38.74 minutes. She has a number of other achievements in athletic career. During her first year on the cross country team, she ran her first 4,000m in 17:04.9 minutes, which would place her in the top 4 of varsity as a freshman. Senior year, Castelli placed first at the 2021 Morro Bay XC Invite womens 3 mile with a time of 19:11 minutes, and in Track placed first in the 3200m, Atascadero HS Memorial Meet with 11:47 minutes.
Castelli praises coach Ivan Huff for instilling a love of running. “He’s just a great coach,” said Castelli.
She was baffled her freshman year to have made it to the 2018 CIF State Cross Country Championships.
The four year varsity cross country and track veteran never thought she’d join the cross country team but gained inspiration from her sister, who also joined
the team as a freshman, and her prior bursts of joy for going out for runs.
Another reason she joined was to befriend new people, one such person is her running partner since her sophomore year, junior Sydney Moore. The two have known each other for three years and both have always run together everyday in-season and off-season’ according to Moore.
“We both are running partners, we keep the same pace and on workouts we’re only seconds off from each other,” said Moore. “She’s like a little motivation for me to keep going.”
Whenever the dynamic duo aren’t running together, Castelli dedicates a minimum of an hour from her busy schedule to go for runs each day. Friends such as Moore say that the joyful, goofy, and athletic runner is extremely dedicated to her sport and proves it everytime they see her.
In addition to her many athletic feats, Castelli has a plethora of academic successes. She has completed the Patient Care pathway for CTE (CareerTechnical Education), successfully competed in SkillsUSA California, completed the National Emergency Communications certification while still being in high school. Castelli has a GPA of 4.0 and has been recognized four times for her kind heart and leadership by Lions Club, where teammates vote and select someone who embodies a good teammate who’s positive, supportive, and has a good coachable mentality.
Castelli will attend the University of California at Santa Barbara and will pursue a major in Speech Pathology. She’ll continue to lead a life where she strives for success at UC Santa Barbara in the future. Although she won’t be running for the university’s team, she’ll continue to run by herself and attempt to join a club to keep her passion for running alive.
Jaiden Ralston is ending her final season as a Bearcat on a bittersweet note: her high school career has come to an end, but her college career is just beginning. Ralston has been playing softball since she was four years old, and by the age of 10 she was playing on a Paso travel team. “I play softball because I love the game, I love the energy it brings, and I love the level of competition among teammates and the game itself,” Ralston said.
Ralston is committed to Iowa State University for pitching on their D1 softball team. She finished her senior year with 242 strikeouts, earned runs allowed at .28, and most strikeouts in a game at 20 strikeouts. She was selected to be the PRHS Player of the Game twice this season.
At the age of 11 she started playing for the California Suncats travel team in San Jose, and has been playing there since.
Ralston was one of the few who made varsity her freshman year while continuing to impress with her ability as a pitcher. This is in no small part due to the dedication she shows to her sport on and off the field. She practices two hours a day five days a week during the regular high school season, and five hours every sunday for her travel team. When she is not playing for the high school team --which placed first in Mountain League and took the league title on their senior night- she practices eight hours on Saturdays and four hours during the week.
hours pitching and hitting on my own time as well,”she said . Her stats reflect her skill and commitment to softball and pitching: she has accumulated a total of 476 strikeouts, 307 innings pitched and an opponent batting average of .131 throughout her years on varsity.
Senior Emma Phillips has been catching and playing with Ralston for nine years, and made freshman year. “Playing with Ralston helps me focus more on the other players on the field since I know I don’t have to worry about her pitching I know she can get the job done at the plate,” Phil said about catching for Jaiden.
“Playing in college will be a dream come true. I have grown up wanting to play college softball since I was 4 years old. I have finally made my dreams a reality and I could not be more proud of myself. Playing and pitching in college is the biggest accomplishment and success in my sports career.”
“Her pitching gives our team an advantage over the other teams in our league because we have to think more about offense with her having our backs in defense,” Phillips said.
While her senior night was filled with watery laughs and teary smiles, she looks forward to starting her college softball career.
“This is only counting the practices with my team. I spend countless
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“Jaiden Ralston SILVER Charlotte Castelli SILVER
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It was such a big suprise for me and my coach and my teammates. No one really expected me to make it and it was just so exciting
CHARLOTTE CASTELLI, 12
t’s only 500 milliseconds to make a decision, sweat dripping down his face. He takes a quick breath to relax his mind as the pitcher winds up for the throw. The ball funnels towards him -- he decides to go for it. At the crack of his bat, fans grip the edge of their seat as the ball flies towards the edge of left field. It’s going… it’s going… it’s gone! Senior Bryson Hoier adds another homerun to his list as he jogs across home plate, earning the Bearcats another run.
Starting on varsity since his freshman year, senior Outfielder Bryson Hoier draws a crowd every time he steps foot on a baseball diamond. Hoier started playing the sport when he was 6 years old, and from the day of his first practice to now, he has developed a passion
“I fell in love with baseball because it was a game that taught me more about life and that when you have more failures, it makes the successes even greater,” Hoier said. “If there’s one thing I learned it was to always have a short memory, because there’s another chance right around the corner.”
Some of his greatest achievements include: being selected as one of 200 kids in the country to compete in North Carolina for Team USA, being named All League team, and signing to play Division 1 baseball at Loyola Marymount University.
With his senior season coming to an end, Hoier said, “It’s been emotional, but I’ve been sure to make the most of every opportunity
and enjoy every last moment I get on my high school field.”
One of Hoier’s biggest highlights this season was his two home run game in the win over Atascadero on Thursday Apr 28, 2022. In back to back appearances at the plate, Hoier hit two homeruns over the left field fence, both going at least 375 feet far.
In four years on varsity, Hoier has over 240 plate appearances, paired with 58 hits, 39 runs batted in, and nine home runs. Hoier’s batting average this year was .347, with 88 plate appearances, while leading the team in home runs, triples, doubles, runs batted in, runs, stolen bases, and slugging percentage.
Over the past two summers Hoier has played travel ball for the Orange County Ducks, led by coach Chris Cooper. Cooper has had a massive impact on Bryson’s career and his successes.
“As a player, Bryson is a leader on and off the field. He leads by example and shows other players how to conduct themselves when they face adversity and when things are going well,” Cooper said, “Coaching Bryson is easy: he’s usually at the field before I am getting locked in for the game ahead. Being a top player, you need to be willing to fail and learn from it. I rarely need to change or explain something to Bryson but we routinely talk about plays he could have done better on or at bats he could have approached differently. Wish I had 30 Brysons on my team.”
With an overall GPA of 4.2, Hoier will be majoring in business.
earing the faint counts of 1, 3, 5, 7 behind the sound of her Devynne Linnell prepares to take flight, confident that her teammates below her will catch her on the way back down. Flying to the top, she hits her motions assured that she is correct on what moves she is doing while soaring up to
Linnell has been on varsity cheer for two years and Varsity Stunt for four years, averaging about 15 hours of practice every week. Her advanced skills and willingness to learn helped to create a stronger team with Linnell’s favorite complex skills including kickfull baskets, 360 to extension, and back-handsprings to extension. Linnell’s stunt career will continue at William and Jessup University for the next four years as a flyer, joining Bearcat alumni Isabella Druding and fellow senior Tia Dana. During her sophomore year she was contacted by Jessup to see if she was interested in their program. She will be studying Biology alongside competing on their stunt team.
This year, Linnell accomplished many feats for the team, the first Bearcat stunt team to win the CIF Central Section Invitational on May 7,2022, helping her team move on to the state competition. Linnell was central to the team’s CIF win and earned her two yeards of the UCA All American level, She is a clear impact on her teammates, causing much of the same persistent attitude to be present.
Hannah Scheller, long time friend and teammate of Linnell, called that influence“drive to be better. To work hard for what you
Starting cheer in seventh grade at Flamson middle school, her progression in becoming a true leader started early by leading the younger girls while learning herself. Entering into the PRHS team, she was determined to grow her skills more with a set focus on being the best she could be. With the switch between sideline cheer season and competitive stunt season, Linnell decided to try the new sport, falling in love with the complexity of it. Her first season on the team the stunt team advanced to the state CIF competition, its first year of existence.Along with some of her teammates she yet again made it to the state competition for Stunt.
“[Stunt] is serious and intimidating. And all my focus goes to that,” Linnell said about the shift in seasons.
Coach Tori Loney has coached Linnell all four years.“If you would have asked me how she would have turned out her freshman year, I would have been hard pressed to see how far she would go. She was hesitant, shy and just “squirrelly” in her stunting. She had all the potential, and she is built to be a flyer.” Loney cannot wait to see her flourish even more at Jessup, because her dedication to her team.
“She has learned that it’s going to take time to earn that top spot, and she has the inner grind to get it done,” Loney said.
[Stunt] is serious and intimidating. And all of my focus goes to that.
DEVYNNE LINELL, 12
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Devynne LinnellBronze
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to always have a short memory because there’s another chance right around the corner BRYSON HOIER, 12
About the logo (left): The 2022 Crimson Studios is based on the black and white version of 20th Century Fox logo. Founded in 1935, this corporation created blockbuster movies like “Titanic”, “Avatar” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”. Just like this studio produces iconic films, we sought to produce stories that relate to and reflect our 2022 Senior Class. Let yourself be immersed in the stories of Crimson’s Senior Issue!
About the Class of 2022: The Class of 2022 had the unique oppurtunity to set the precedent for all the students following them. Coming into this school year they were the only class with a full year of high school, so it was their choice to continue traditions or to let them die. To demonstrate through their actions what a post-covid PRHS should look like. As the seniors walk acorss the stage on June 10, it will be “the start of something new”: a new journey, with new faces and experiences. Seize your moment seniors but remember: “we’re all in this together”... as Bearcats.
