Scroll senior issue 2022 by EastScroll

SCROLL V O L U M E 91

CLASS OF

EAST HIGH SCHOOL

ISSUE 4

2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS Freshmen

Asiah Ashby Aspen Collins Beverly Gillard Christopher Ramirez-Chavez

SCROLL SENIORS

THEN V.S. NOW

Sophomores Gabriel Cook Maya Hernandez-Howard Angelina McDaniel Santiago Melendez-Lopez Kendall Moss Finn Robertson Devyn Sam Kaylie Shannon Paul Sleeth Hayleigh Spicher Kelle Stewart Natalie Taylor Dayanna Vinalay Jaitreana White District Educational Equality Statement

Des Moines Public Schools prohibits discrimination in educational and employment programs and activities based on age, race, creed, color, sex, marital status, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disablility. In addition, the District prohibits acts of intolerance or harrassment toward employees or students that are not related to the individual’s employment or education.

Letter Policy The Scroll welcomes letters but reserves the right to edit for space as needed. Outside contributions are subject to the usual restrictions of libel and obscenity and must conform to general paper policy, which is available upon request. Signed commentaries represent personal opinions, not views of the staff. Also, your letter needs to include your full name and grade. Unsigned letters can not be printed. You can deliver your letter to Natalie Niemeyer in room 3060N.

Ad Policy

East High Scroll

Ads are available in quarter page, half page and full page sizes. Ad inquiries should be directed to Natalie Niemeyer at natalie. niemeyerlorenz@dmschools.org. The Scroll reserves the right to reject ads deemed not in the best interest of East students. The paper is printed by DMPS print services.

ANNIE HUYNH

Juniors Ny’Asiah Gully

Seniors 2022 GRADUATES

Shukri Abdirahman Isabella Lopez Lyric Sellers

Principal Jill Versteeg

Adviser MATT SMITH

Natalie Niemeyer-Lorenz

Cover & Back cover Isabella Lopez

Your 2021-2022 Scroll Editors-in-Chief signing out

Isabella Lopez

Shukri Abdirahman

East High Scroll

SENIORS COMMITTING photo/ I. Lopez

MCKENNA

“Don’t be afraid to do something. If you’re scared to do something because of what someone thinks or because you’re nervous, don’t be, there is no harm in trying. The things that you randomly try might be one of your favorite things you’ve ever done,” Dolphin said.

SWIMMING

Senior McKenna Dolphin has been swimming since she was around four years old. She has been on the East High School swim team all four years, coached by Erin Lowe. Dolphin recently decided to continue swimming after high school for Grinnell College, as well as majoring in political science and pre-law. Swimming was not just about the competition, it was how she formed many of her life long friendships. Not only is she a swimmer but she is also a varsity captain for the girls soccer team and involved in many clubs. When Dolphin is not in the pool, she is watching Netflix, playing with her dog, or hanging out with her friends.

DOLPHIN Messages to McKenna:

photo/ M.Argueta-Hernandez story/ I. Lopez

East High Scroll

“ McKenna, you will be greatly missed! Your personality, leadership and scholarship are top notch, and you will do great things at Grinnell College and beyond. I can’t wait to see what wonderful accomplishments you achieve. You embody the school motto, For The Service of Humanity!,” coach Erin Lowe said. “ McKenna will be so missed in 3060N next year. She has been so dedicated to yearbook for the last four years and so much of our success is due to her hard word. McKenna is irreplaceable. I can’t wait to see what happens next in her journey,” teacher Natalie Niemeyer said. “ Congrats, you are officially old... Way to go!! I am so proud of all the achievements you have and will continue to make. Swimming and soccer without going to be so weird without my buddy. I might actually stay on task... Not really but the thought occurred. Anyways, I’m still mad that you’re leaving me, but I know you will do great things so I will let you leave the nest,” sophomore MacKenzie Lueder said.

TO COLLEGE SPORTS ROCIO

SOCCER

Rocio Hernandez has been playing soccer since she was around six years old. She has played on varsity all four years at East coached by Ried Bentley and on a Latino League for around eight years coached by Diego Munguia. With the outpouring support from both of her coaches Hernandez recently decided to continue playing after high school for Iowa Central Community College, as well as majoring in computer engineering and graphic design. When Hernandez is not on the field she is listening to music, driving around, or hanging out with her younger siblings.

photo/ I. Lopez

“Enjoy the time while you have it goes by fast and stay on top of your work especially your last year of high school. I was just a freshman and now I’m a senior,” Hernandez said.

HERNANDEZ Messages to Rocio:

“Rocio, thank you for making me a better coach! I’ve enjoyed watching you become the athlete that you are today and I’m very excited to watch you play at the next level at IA Central. I was blessed to have your talents on the field for the last four years and East will very much miss your grid. I am always here for you! Love you,” coach Ried Bentley said. “ ROCIO! Congratulations on all of your accomplishments! I am so glad to have met you and to have had you in class. You are an incredible person and I want you to know that I am always proud of you. Find your niche and chase it! But knowing you, you will accomplish anything you set your heart on. It has been an honor to be your teacher. Best of luck in your future endeavors,” teacher Judy Lee said. “ I really wish you a good future and I’m very thankful for meeting the kindest person! You have the best sportsmanship. I’m really going to miss you,” sophomore Dayana Rodriguez said. “ I will forever cherish our memories together, you’ll do great things! I’ll miss our time together #precalclads4life,” senior Caitlyn Saturno said.

photo/ I. Lopez

East High Scroll

Emma Rounds Emma Rounds is a senior at East High School. She will be graduating this year and will be off to college. Rounds will attend Simpson to continue her athletic and academic career. Reading this article to learn where Emma plans on going to college and how she started

Emma and her family

story/ N.Taylor

Emma Rounds was born in Des Moines, she lived here her whole life. She went to Goodrell Middle School, that’s where she Started playing volleyball. When Rounds started high school, she started playing volleyball for East High School, she played on the varsity team all four years of high school. What made you want to play college volleyball? “I realized after season that I didn’t want that to be my last season, and playing in a different environment and coach,” Rounds said. What all started making you want to play volleyball? “Just thought it would be something fun to do in middle school then started playing tournament and throughout high school,” Rounds said. Over your years of playing volleyball who are people who have encouraged you or helped you become a better player? Who are they and how have they helped you? “My teammates, coaches, and family have all helped me, but my old coach was who encouraged me the most. Coach Wells was always pushing me to become better no matter what. Even though it put a lot of stress on me, it helped me grow,” Rounds said. As a high school volleyball player going into college volleyball how do it

East High Scroll

make you feel? “I feel accomplished but also excited knowing I have four more years to play and so much more to learn,” Rounds said. Why was Simpson college your final choice? What made you want to go there? “I had gotten a great scholarship from them, and their assistant volleyball coach would always come and talk to me. Mainly, I just loved their coaching staff and campus,” Rounds said. “I loved their campus and they are just a great school overall and the people there are very welcoming,” Rounds said. What do you think is going to be different going from high school volleyball to college volleyball? “It will be a lot more competitive, and I will have to work harder for a spot,” Rounds said. What are you planning to study in college? “Business management,” Rounds said. How do you feel about Emma leaving for college? “I’m excited for her but it also won’t be the same with her not being around all of the time,” Emma’s sister Tessa Rounds said. What are you going to miss most? I’m going to miss seeing her and talking to her every day and going shopping together. I’m also going to miss playing

photos/ contributed

volleyball and being on the court next to her. We still plan on having lots of visits and still staying close,” Tessa Rounds said.

Both photos are of Emma and her younger sister Tessa Rounds playing volleyball together for East

Jaida Hernandez-Howard

senior signing out “I loved having Jaida for both Math and Science when she was in eighth grade at Hoyt. Although quiet, Jaida’s smile would light up our classroom, especially when talking about softball! Congratulations on your graduation Jaida!!” -Middle School teacher Gretlein (Hamilton)

story/M.Hernandez-Howard

photos/contributed

You may see her throwing strikes from the mound, in the student section at football games, or just walking around the hallways with her headphones in. Meet one of the seniors that are graduating this May, Jaida Hernandez-Howard. Howard has been at East High School since her freshman year and despite the struggles she faced throughout her years here, she will be moving on after graduation. Howard spent her years of school at Brubaker Elementary, Hoyt Middle School and East High School Howard is the oldest of four kids, two younger sisters and a younger brother. During high school she had a challenging time staying motivated and getting everything done in school. Howard states that her four years at East High have been a crazy experience. Howard says that she can only put her high school experience into one word and that is “crazy.” The one thing keeping her motivated to graduate is being the first one in her family to graduate. Howard has some big plans for when she graduates and that includes going into real estate and then later going into cosmetology. Howard is going to miss the East community when she graduates. “I’m going to miss the people, my community, I love each and every single person at East with my whole heart,” Howard said.

Howard is getting ready to graduate and wishes she would have gotten more involved at events. Including attending football games, standing in the student sections, participating in spirit week and a lot more. Howard has one message for her family and friends who have been there for her throughout her years and who have supported her every step of the way and never gave up on her. “I appreciate every single one of you, you guys motivated me. I cannot express how much I love every single one of you guys,” HernandezHoward said. Howard has a unique personality and really cares for the people in her family and friends more than she cares about herself. “She’s very caring, puts people before herself, will do anything for her siblings and family in general, she supports her family more than she supports herself and she will go out of her way to do whatever for her family,” younger sister Lohna Hernandez-Howard said. “Jaida is very determined, if she knows what she wants she’s going to work to get it and she’s just sweet and will always make sure everyone is ok and doing well,”Sophomore Mo Purdy said.

“Jaida- I am so incredibly proud of you and I cannot wait to watch you crush your goals in life. The future is so bright for you! -Middle School teacher Miss. Goodard

“I’m so proud of everything you have accomplished so far in life and I can’t wait to see what you do after you graduate,” -Father Chad Howard

“She made broken look beautiful and strong look invincible. she walked with the universe on her shoulders and made it look like a pair of wings.” -unknown I love you so much and I am so proud of you!” -Mom Nikki Howard

“This year you’ve always been nice to me and just always had good talks I know you’re a person to trust so thank you for that. But wow now you’re graduating crazy but good luck in the future and what it has for you I know it will and can be bight and lots of opportunities just put your mind to it,” -Tristin Green/10

“That I’m proud of her and all that she has achieved in her years of high school, and I can’t wait to see what the future is like for her.” -Sister Lohna HernandezHoward

“we are so proud of the young woman you are becoming, and proud of all of the things you have accomplished. You have a bright future ahead of you. We love you very much! Cheers to your first big milestone as an adult, high school completion.” -Aunt Cede Hernandez

“I’m excited to see how your last season goes and I’m excited to catch you for one last time.” Cora Knoop/ 9.

East High Scroll

Interview/ K. Moss

SCIENCE

Design/ K. Moss & D. Sam

These seniors received a full ride scholarship to Iowa State University through Science Bound. The nine-year long program begins in the summer before their 8th grade year until they graduate college. From their hard-work and dedication to the program, they receive full paid tuition to all ASTEM degrees.

Dear Science Bound Seniors, Class of 2022, you all have grown so much, and the future is yours! I have been blessed to be a part of your journey and I am so proud of the work that you have put in. I cannot wait to see your future successes! Accept nothing less than success - You deserve it! Sincerely, Mrs. Fitzgerald

Attendence Sheet P A

Farhan Ahmed

Liban Ahmed

M. Argueta Hernandez

Alexis Brown

Idania Carillo-Martin

Keiry Chavez-Alvarado

Lesly Chavez-Estrada

Jaeda DeKoter

Adan Delgadillo

Sergio Jimenez Soriano

Marina McGregor

Tonatiuh Merlos Rojas America Munguia

East High Scroll

X X

BOUND

Marisol Argueta Hernandez

America Munguia

“My favorite memory from Science Bound is when we “My favorite memory has to be the Science were practicing and rehearsing our final OJ presentaBound starter days, especially during my tion, and we got food from the concessions. It was sophomore year because it was super exciting. sweet. In college, thankfully, I have tuition paid for, They threw out shirts and I saw all my friends so I don’t have to worry about that. The A-Stem field from other schools. It was just really fun; the that I really wanted to go to was Agricultural and Life energy was good. In college, I’m going to study Sciences. In that field, I want to go into horiculture,” elementary education at Iowa State,” Munguia Argueta Hernandez said. said.

Adan Delgadillo

Tonatiuh Merlos Rojas

2022

Alexis Brown

“My favorite Science Bound memory was in eighth grade when we went the YMCA bootcamp. It was raining, I had a terrible time, but it was really fun. We did a lot of outdoor activities and I’m not really an outdoorsy person. I’m going to be studying Kinesiology or prephysical therapy at Iowa State,” Brown said.

Jaeda Dekoter

“My favorite memory from Science Bound are the a “My favorite memory is Shadow Day. For col“My favorite memory from Science Bound ctivities we did like Science Bound starters, we would lege, I’m actually not going to Iowa State but is probably being able to work with the other go to Iowa State, and go to all the different schools, senior’s when we created our final project. I’m I’m going to major in elementary education it was just a great time. In college, I’m going to study and Spanish at Grand View University,” Merlos going to Cultural Design at Iowa State and engineering at Iowa State,” Delgadillo said. major in pre-architecture,” Dekoter Said. Rojas said.

“My favorite memory is going to Shadow Day, which is an event that Science Bound organizes for us where we follow a current Junior at Iowa State. I shadowed an Iowa State Junior that was majoring in animal science. I’m undecided in agricultural and life sciences at Iowa State University,” Carrillo-Martin said.

Idania Carrillo-Martin

East High Scroll

GRAD Class of 2022

2018 - 2022

What is your advice for incoming freshmen? “My advice for incoming freshman is join as many clubs as you can,” senior Mohamed Saidu said.

Seniors reflect on their time at East, plans for the future, and what it means to be a Scarlet.

What is your favorite memory at East? “The people because there are good people and the making good friends,” senior Emma Moore said.

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How was your experience at East? “There were bumps in the road but it didn’t stop East to show love and support though out the commnity,” senior Morgan Stout said.

What career do you think you want to do? “I want to be a pediatric nurse practitioner,” senior Rose Batungwanayo said.

photo/ A.Collins

illustration/ A.Collins

Scroll Seniors story/B.Gillard photos/contributed

Find out more about East High student journalists leaving their mark

riends, researchers, communicators, reporters, writers, editors, interviewers, and correspondents. These are all words to describe East High School student journalists. These Scroll seniors have seen it all, from the pandemic to the shooting at our school. Keep reading to find out about them, and their experiences with newspaper. Devaki Adhikari has been a part of the Scroll team for two and a half years. Adhikari has very exciting plans after high school. she is going to be attending Des Moines Area Community College then transferring to a four-year college out of state. She is interested in exploring Human Services and Psychology as her career. Adhikari enjoys listening to music, hiking, and spending quality time with her parents and close friends. She can be seen as an introvert but can be extroverted to those who she is close to. Her favorite part about Scroll is how nice and outgoing everyone is. “I just love how at the beginning of a term everyone was always ready to help their classmates even though we did not know each other that much instead of thinking about getting their own work done,” Adhikari said. Alexuis Bloomer has been a part of the Scroll team since the beginning of her junior year. Bloomer plans on attending Mount Mercy University to become a nurse and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Bloomer has 10 siblings and likes to make sculptures and paintings. Her favorite part about Scroll is that she can be creative with her work. “It feels like a free space to create and write about things that you feel comfortable writing about,” Bloomer said.

Isabella Lopez has been on Scroll staff for three years; she joined the beginning of her sophomore year. Lopez plans on attending Grand V’iew University majoring in nursing, specifically pediatrics. Lopez is the oldest in her family, she’s good with kids, and is involved in 12 clubs at East High School. Her favorite part about Scroll is being editor in chief. “It’s opened a lot of opportunities for me to become more of a leader and to become closer with more of the staff and students around East,” Lopez said. Shukri Abdirahman has been a Scroll staffer since the second semester of her sophomore year, she was in journalism for the first semester of her sophomore year. She became co-editor in chief her senior year. Abdirahman plans on attending Drake University, majoring in Elementary Education, so she can be an elementary school teacher. Abdirahman comes from a big family, she moved to Iowa four years ago, before living in Iowa she lived in Portland, Maine for 12 years. Her favorite part about Scroll is the environment and the people surrounding her. “This is the class I look forward to most, I really like the people and the environment. Mrs. Niemeyer is one of my biggest influences and I’m really going to miss her,” Abdirahman said. Lyric Sellers has been a part of the Scroll team since her sophomore year. Her favorite part about Scroll is being able to tell stories, and learn about other people’s passions, and seeing how creative they are. Sellers has a lot of hobbies like theatre, basketball, and student activism. Sellers has a full ride scholarship to attend Iowa State University to

major in communications, where she plans to enhance her skills to build interpersonal relationships and working with people. “I like careers that involve working with people, I’m really interested in advocacy especially in education,” Sellers said. Alea Hoof has been a part of the Scroll family for four years. Hoof has fascinating plans after high school. She plans on attending Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids Iowa, to major in health management. Hoof is very artistic; she loves to draw and paint. Another captivating fact about Hoof is that she can split her tongue into three. Her favorite part about Scroll was the loving and fun environment. “My favorite part about Scroll was being able to express yourself in diverse ways around so many individuals who shared the same liking for your writing as you do,” Hoof said. Aiom Makier has been with the Scroll Family since she was a freshman. Makier graduated from East early this year, and she went straight to work. As of right now, Makier is working as a Health Care Technician at Broadlawns Hospital. She is going to school for the Spring in 2023 at Mercy College, she will be majoring in nursing, labor, and delivery specifically. Her favored part about Scroll was the comfortable environment and how you could write about anything you wanted, even if someone didn’t like your opinion. “I especially loved Niemeyer, without her I don’t think I would’ve been in newspaper,” Makier said.

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Meet the yearbook editors A message to the Quill seniors:

story/S.Abdirahman photos/S.Abdirahman

“I hope the Quill seniors know how much they will be missed. They have been through so much during the last four years: distributing a yearbook during a pandemic, creating a yearbook virtually and finally having a semi-normal year this year. I am grateful for all you have done and the example that you have set for those who come after you. Thank you for everything,” -Advisor Natalie Niemeyer.

ast High School yearbook editors work very hard throughout the school year as well as during the summer to make sure the Quill is ready for distribution before the end of spring. They edit and design pages, take photos, and develop a theme. They also design the cover. Meet this year’s yearbook editors. Marisol Argueta-Hernandez Marisol Argueta-Hernandez has been in yearbook for two years now. She became Co-Editorin-Chief her senior year. Her favorite thing about the class is seeing the progress with the yearbook. It started as blank templates and then seeing that final page was really exciting. “I chose to be an editor because I thought that the yearbook had a lot of potential and I wanted to be a person to bring that out in the next school year. It sounded like a really fun experience, and I wanted to be a part of that,” Argueta-Hernandez said. She is going to attend Iowa State University debt free for four years with a full ride scholarship. She plans to study horticulture which is the cultivation of plants and gardens. “Being in yearbook is a great experience and being a ‘yerd’ is an even better title to hold, and I definitely recommend the class,” ArguetaHernandez said. McKenna Dolphin McKenna Dolphin is also Co-Editor-inChief. She designed all of the templates that are on the pages, except for the feature pages. Once the pages are done, Dolphin would look over them, fix grammar mistakes and make any other changes. Dolphin joined yearbook her freshman year and has been in it since. She was feature editor her junior year and became Co-Editor-in-Chief her senior year. Her favorite thing about this class is the environment. Everyone is so nice, and they work very hard. She likes going out and meeting new people during her interviews. She is going to attend Grinnell College to major in political science and pre-law. She will also be swimming for Grinnell. “I love yearbook, I’m going to miss Mrs. Nie-

East High Scroll

meyer, this class, and everyone. You should join, it’s such a fun class, you get to create whatever you want, and people pay for it,” Dolphin said. Arlene Neppl Arlene Neppl’s role is Co-Editor-in-Chief, and she is in charge of all the details and logistics. She selects the fonts, layout, templates. “I choose to be an editor because I love yearbook, and I wanted to use that passion in a different way. Instead of making pages, I could make sure the yearbook goes together smoothly,” Neppl said. Her favorite thing about this class is the positive environment. The yearbook is a group project, and they make a great book, as well as many amazing memories. After high school, Neppl plans to attend Drake University and major in international relations with a minor in human rights and Chinese. She hopes to further her education with either a master’s degree or a law degree. “Yearbook can be hard work, but everyone is willing to help you in any way possible. After being in yearbook for almost my entire high school career, I can say that yearbook has really helped me. There’s not a class I love more, and it will be the hardest to leave,” Neppl said. Jenifer Andrade-Hernandez Jenifer Andrade-Hernandez is a senior feature editor. She overlooks the senior pages, making sure students who haven’t been featured get a chance. She also helps with design layout and makes sure ideas aren’t repeated. Andrade-Hernandez joined yearbook her junior year, and this is her first year as an editor. She chose to be a senior editor because she wanted to make the senior section memorable because this is her last year. Her favorite thing about this class is how everyone gets along with each other. If they have questions nobody is afraid to speak up because everyone is so nice. “After high school I plan on going to DMACC for two years to become a dental hygienist. I also plan to attend University of Iowa to further my education,” Andrade-Hernandez said.

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Caitlyn Saturno Caitlyn Saturno is a feature editor for the yearbook. She chose this role because she did really well with writing features on her own. Saturno has been in yearbook for two years and this is her first year as an editor. Her favorite thing about this class is connecting with new people and seeing other people’s ideas. After high school, she plans to attend Wartburg College in Waverly Iowa. She plans to major in criminal justice and videography. “I highly recommend yearbook because you get to meet new people and put your own ideas in the book for everyone to see,” Saturno said. Ashlynn Hudrick Ashlynn Hudrick has also been in yearbook for two years and this is her first year as an editor. She is the sports editor as well as the clubs and organizations editor which means she would take group pictures of every sport, club and organization at East, as well as organizing the pictures onto the pages. “I chose to be an editor because I’m fairly involved in school, I love sports and organization,” Hudrick said. Her plans after high school include attending Wartburg College to major in health and fitness. “My favorite thing about this class is the people. I met some of my best friends through this class and they are so fun. I absolutely recommend yearbook if you love design, writing, and taking pictures. Yearbook was by far one of my favorite classes during my four years at East,” Hudrick said. Emma Moore Emma Moore is a senior editor. She helps edit senior pages. She chose to be an editor because she likes having fun designs in the book. Moore has been in yearbook since her sophomore year. This is her first year as an editor. After high school, she plans to attend a beauty school called Aveda Institute. “I recommend this class, its really fun and I’ve made a lot of new friends,” Moore said.

Jenifer Andrade-Hernandez Senior feature editor

McKenna Dolphin Co-Editor-in-Chief

Arlene Neppl Co-Editor-in-Chief

Marisol ArguetaHernandez Co-Editor-in-Chief

Emma Moore Senior feature editor

Ashlynn Hudrick Sports & clubs/ orgs editor

Caitlyn Saturno Feature editor East High Scroll

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Freshman Rylee Roberts

Freshman Morgan Stout

Freshman Britney Pogyo Rivera

Fresman Carolina Mendoza-Medrono

Senior Taelyn Fisher

Senior Marcelo Acosta

Senior Abigal Akers

Senior Me’lisa Dudley

Freshman Taelyn Fisher

Freshman Marcelo Acosta

Freshman Abigal Akers

Freshman Me’lisa Dudley

Page/D. Sam

Follow to see crazy flashabcks of the senior’s freshman year

300+ posts

#EastHighScarletFlashbacks’22

Senior Carolina Mendoza-Medrano

Senior Britney Pogyo Rivera

Senior Morgan Stout

Senior Rylee Roberts

...

5:28

TWEET Page/ N.Gully @N.Gully

The 2022 school year is coming to a wrap and East is getting ready to say goodbye to the seniors. They havent had the easiest high school career. Drop your final messages to class of 22’. Raegan @Raegan Park 9 mins ago Thank you for the mark you left at East! Wish you all the best of luck no matter what your journey is <3 Marisol @Marisol Herrera 23 mins ago We will miss you! Randi @Randi Fitzgerald 1 hours ago Today is the start of the rest of your life - make it what you want it to be! YOU have that power, own it! Jontay @Jontay Williams 3 hours ago Goodbye seniors, I wish you the best in your next chapter in life. I know you will do amazing things, in the mist of finding yourself. You are all unique individuals, and have plenty to live for. Stay focused and disciplined. Isabel @Isabel Gonzales 7 hours ago Good luck! Ginger @Ginger Johnson 13 hours ago You have a lot of important and solid character. Be sure to let it shine as you make an impact on the world. Kiliany @Kiliany Amaro 20 hours ago Congratulations on accomplishing all your years in high school it was stressful but at the end of the day all that work payed off. Hope you guys have a successful future and finish your plans you have for yourself. FOREVER A SCARLET. Lacy @Lacy Anderson 1d I’ve really enjoyed getting to know many of the seniors. Good luck in the future and keep in contact! Kylee @Kylee Ashley 1d Thank you for being our role models. I wish you the best in life. Jana @Jana McCleland 1d You all have been through so much and we are proud of your success. Brian @Brian Koch 2d Congratulations on making it through the weirdest high school experience ever. No go out and fix what’s broken. Vidal @Vidal Spaine 2d Do not ever give up on your dreams. Shirley @ Shirley Rivera-Pogyo 3d I’m saying goodbye to my sister Britney Rivera-Pogyo. I’m so proud of her and what she has accomplished, she is literally one of the bravest people I know. She still did her thing even though y’all be hating. Love her. Ashlee @Ashlee Duimstra 3d I’m proud of you--you’ve made it through a lot and you’ve done it together! Erica @Erica Gonzalez 3d Bye hope your life treats you better than school did. Michael @Michael Freund 4d Congratulations seniors! You have endured an incredible four years of highs and lows. As your journey continues after high school my hope is that you continue asking questions, keep engaging your curiosity, and continue learning. I’m very proud of all of you!

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Meet East High’s class of 2022 Valedictorian Interview/D. Sam

Annie Huynh

Page/D.Sam

Have you heard about East High’s 2022 valedictorian’s rough journey? Listen to this podcast and find out everthing you need to know. Senior Annie Huynh has worked so hard these past four years and she was also named valedictorian of her freshmen class. Huynh had a serious health issue this year and was out of school for the whole first semester and she still maintained her title as valedictorian.

Annie’s podcast

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East soccer seniors

It is 7 p.m. you are at an East High home school soccer game. Music is playing loud on the speakers, and it is one of your favorite songs. You are getting hyped with your friends eating chips that you got from the concession stand. A voice comes on the speaker and announces the lineup for tonight’s game. Meet the varsity seniors who go out on the field who play with all their heart.

Pedro Serna

Pedro Serna has been on the boy’s East soccer team for all four years of high school, he is number 18 on the field. Serna is going to Grand view university where he is going to continue playing soccer. One of his biggest accomplishments is making the varsity team. Serna has made a remarkable impact to those around him. He has been described as fun, hyped and the goat he has made a lot of memories being on the soccer team. “My favorite memory being on the team I would say is being with the team all around having fun and being with the guys I think that’s the best memory,” Pedro Serna said. Serna has been playing soccer since he was very young “I started when I was four and I just got into it, I tried out other sports and I really liked soccer,” Serna said. Time is going by so fast and soon Serna will graduate May 28th. He has such great sportsmanship skills and a lot of skills outside and on the field. Serna’s high school journey is coming to an end. He has a few words left to say. “Stay in class don’t give up if you get put into JV don’t give up. Get better as a player and I promise you’ll be up there not just as a player but as a student too” Serna said.

East High Scroll

Graduation is around the corner get to know Pedro Serna and Erick Sandoval East Varsity soccer seniors

Erick Rodriguez Ashton Raygoza Freddy Muniz-Garcia Tonatiuh Gonzalez-Martinez May Soe Eh Poe Evan Wood Anthony Luvan Pedro Serna Erick Sandoval

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Erick Sandoval

Erick Sandoval has been on the boy’s East soccer team for all four years of high school, he is number 21 on the field. Sandoval is going to Grand view university where he is going to continue playing soccer. Sandoval brings fun and excitement to anyone he encounters. By far his favorite memory is the ADM tournament. Sandoval is outgoing and sure has a lot of confidence he wants to give advice to underclassmen about soccer.“Learn how to take criticism, because there’s times where people are going to say stuff to you and there’s people who take that personal, I know from experience. You just must learn and take it as advice and not in a negative way,” Erick Sandoval said. He has impacted everyone he encounters, soccer has become a huge part of Sandoval’s life since he was a little kid, from backyards to stadiums playing in front of crowds .“My cousin Freddy and I used to play in the backyard at our aunt’s house and he started playing. After a couple of years, I tried it out and from there it was my sport,” Sandoval said.Graduation is coming up and soon Sandoval will be saying goodbye to East High school and his beloved soccer team. story/D.Vinalay

photo/ D.Vinalay

East soccer seniors PT2

Get to know seniors Leslie Marquez and Rose Batungwanayo

Leslie Mayorga Leslie Marquez is captain of the girls’ soccer team, she has played all 4 years of high school. Márquez has had lot of accomplishments but her biggest one is being captain of the girl’s East soccer team.“Becoming captain was an honor. I was able to guide others into the success of soccer, and to continue to do what is right,” Leslie Marquez said. Unfortunately, Marquez will not continue soccer after high school “I will not be playing soccer after high school. I have shifted myself onto school, army, and working in health care. As much as I love to play. I need to find myself somewhere else due to the fear of my knee getting damaged again,” Marquez said. Marquez soccer journey is coming to an end, soon she will say goodbye to soccer. She has a few memories that she will always keep in her heart and mind.“I enjoyed every moment with the team. Bus rides were always fun. Especially, when someone is sleeping,” Marquez said. Marquez has a few words to say to those wanting to play soccer or continue playing,“I would tell them to find yourself first before you put anyone above you. Find what you love even if it means you don’t have friends. I had friends first-year student year, but once I found what I love. I lost them and that’s okay,” Marquez said. Leslie Marquez signing out.

Leslie Marquez-Mayorga Jasmine Valadez McKenna Dolphin Rose Batungwanayo Rocio Hernandez America Mungia Sara Arias Kenzie Woodard Catherine Guerra-Caballero Rocio Riveros-Ortiz

Rose Batawanayo Rose Batungwanayo is a very big asset to the girl’s East soccer team this 2022 soccer season.“I’ve been on the east team since freshman year, but I didn’t play my sophomore or junior year,” Rose Batungwanayo said. Batungwanayo is very loved by everyone around her, she is very energetic, outgoing, and fun. Soccer has always been in her life. My mom was a goalie, and my dad was a midfield defense back in their day, so soccer was always a part of my life,” Batungwanayo said. Unfortunately, Batawanayo will not continue soccer after high school, so this is her last year playing soccer, she has come a long way. She is recognized by her amazing goals and skill performance, she will missed sincerely. Batawanayo makes sure she is always on top of her schoolwork outsude of soccer, “I focus on my academics, I prepare for my upcoming classes, I catch up on schoolwork,” Batungwanayo said. Batawanayo season is coming to an end, and she has a few words for those who want to play soccer or want to improve in soccer. For those who want to play soccer, run, condition, and listen to your teammates also keep up with your studies, academics come first,” Batungwanayo said. Rose Bataunwanayo signing out. photo/I. Lopez

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Meet the East boys’ volleyball club

Welcome to the East boys’ volleyball club. The East boys’ volleyball club is exactly what it sounds like, a club where boys can play volleyball, practice their skills, and even practice with the East girls’ volleyball team. The practices are every Monday at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays but usually the boys will play with the girl volleyball team while they have their conditioning from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Practice happens in the community gym, and when scrimmaging with the girls, they play in the main gym.. The club team was started by player Elder Hidalgo and managers Dayanna Vinalay and Jaitreana White. They wanted to start up a boys’ volleyball club to show that there’s no such thing as “a girl sport” or “boy sport” volleyball is meant for everyone. Jimmy Le

In those years what are you most proud of ? - “I’ve gotten a lot better individually but I’m most proud of my serving,” Le said. What inspired you to start playing volleyball? - “My friend Kylen. He invited all the seniors that are on the team now to start playing volleyball in the summer,” Le said. Do you plan on playing volleyball after high school? -“Yeah, I probably will,” Le said. What advice do you have for How many years have you been underclassmen on the team? playing volleyball? -“Try to enjoy it as much as pos- I’m a senior so about three years,” sible this club is a lot of fun so senior Jimmy Le said. make it last and enjoy it,” Le said.

Aydin Leuang said.

Tate Thach

How many years have you been playing volleyball? - “A year and a half,” senior Tate Thach said.

East High Scroll

How many years have you been playing volleyball? - “two years,” sophomore Elder Hidalgo said.

Jayden Khambonoun

Aydin Leuang

How many years have you been playing volleyball? - “For two years now,” senior

Elder Hidalgo

In those years what are you most proud of ? - “The improvement I’ve got over the years and just overall learning,” Leuang said What inspired you to start playing volleyball? - “My friend Kylen,” Leuang said. Do you plan on playing volleyball after high school? - “Yeah I am,” Leuang said. What advice do you have for underclassmen on the team? - “Just stick with practice,” Leuang said. How many years have you been playing volleyball? - “A year and a half,” Senior Tate Thach said. In those years what are you most proud of? - “My setting skills and my passing,” Thach said. What inspired you to start playing volleyball? -“My friend Kyle brought us to play volleyball and it seemed very enjoyable,” Thach said.

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How many years have you been playing volleyball? - “This is my first year,” sophomore Jayden Khambonoun.

In those years what are you most proud of ? - “I know how to hit the ball and I’m not afraid to put myself out there,” Hidalgo said. What inspired you to start playing volleyball? - “Seeing the girls play,” Hidalgo said. Do you plan on playing volleyball after high school? - “I want to if I can, if the collage I go to offers it,” Hidalgo said. What advice do you have for underclassmen on the team? - “It’s never too late to get into volleyball and try new things,” Hidalgo said.

In those years what are you most proud of ? - “Having a consistent serve,” Khambonoun said. What inspired you to start playing volleyball? - “My friend Jaitreana,” Khambonoun said. Do you plan on playing volleyball after high school? - “Just for fun, not for college,” Khambonoun said. What advice do you have for underclassmen on the team? - “Don’t be scared of the ball and don’t be scared of the upperclassmen,” Khambonoun said.

More about the class of 2022 graduates The class of 2022 has been through a lot, there have been rough moments and they have gained some good ones, but throughout everything, they stuck together and made so many good memories.

Jaden Luong

Remember to do your best and never give up no matter the difficulty. You are capable of opening doors leading to many opportunities. Remember to always have fun wherever you are and never lose sight of your self-worth. Your memories with your friends, families, and teachers will also last a lifetime. With all of these in mind, remember that you can always make something even if you start out with nothing; taking the risk is better than nothing because it will all work out in the end,” Luong said

East

Kartik Kalra

East

If you could do anything differently, what would you do?

“I feel like joining more sports and doing more extracurricular activities and socializing more with students in my grade and creating more bonds with my teachers,” Kalra said.

Catherine Guerra-Caballero If you made any mistakes during your high school experience, what was it and how did you fix it

“My junior year was during my Covid year and I skipped a lot and my grades dropped. The way I fixed it was actually starting o go to class and get my grades up,” Guerra said

Jessica Perez If you could change anything from you high school experience, would you? If so, what would it be and why? “I would and it would be to get more involved in sports and games but as far as grades I have strict parents and couldn’t have bad grades,” Perez said. Story/A.Ashby Photos/ Contributed Design/D.Sam

Anthony Luvan

Did you join any sports? If so, how did it have a positive impact on you? “I just played soccer, but it had a good effect on me because I met a lot of people,” Luvan said If you could do anything differently, would you? “I would of say worry about going to classes and socialize and hangout with my friends more often,” Luvan said.

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EAST HIGH PROM 2022

Fairy lights, white silk curtains, disco lights, beautiful outfits. These are all things you may see when you walk into the Scottish Rite Consistory on April 23, 2022. This was East High Schools 2022 prom. You will see people there in every grade, including lowerclassmen, who have to be accompanied by an upperclassman in order to enter the dance. Loud music is playing, and there is a circle of people smiling, laughing, and dancing. These are East High’s class of 2022’s Senior prom, and they are having the time of their lives. The DJ is playing party bangers, such as “Cupid Shuffle” by Cupid, “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz, “Fireball” by Pitbull, and “Scream and Shout” by will.i.am and Britney Spears. Almost all of East’s prom attendees are singing these songs from the top of their lungs. They all, somehow, know the words to each song. Girls are dancing on each other, there are boys trying to create mosh pits. Everyone is happy at this year’s prom. All of a sudden, the music stops, and people are starting to creep toward the stage in the Scottish Rite ballroom. Then, the announcers tell everyone over the loud microphones to turn toward the stage for the prom king and queen reveal. The candidates all stand alongside each other on the stage. Seniors such as Alexis Brown, Ethan Sheets, Erick Rodriguez,

Isabella Lopez, and more, are lined up. Finally, the announcers ask for a drumroll from the other students. The Consistory is rumbling with stomping feet and slamming hands. Then, it is finally announced that Jessica Perez is East High Schools Prom Queen of 2022, and Kartik Kalra as East High Schools Prom King of 2022. “Winning prom court was an accomplishment that truly surprised me. I was shocked at how much support I had and how many friends I made throughout my high school years.” Kalra said. Kalra ran for prom court, not expecting to win, and now he is being announced as the winner. “I couldn’t speak- my whole body felt numb because I didn’t know what was happening. Then, Isabella (Lopez) hugged me and congratulated me and I had finally snapped back to reality. I was feeling a whole mixture of emotions, my friends were cheering me on assuring me I would win but I was doubtful and I think the whole time leading up to the big moment I was relaxed, I thought whatever happens, happens,” Perez said. “In just one word, prom was magical. We got to have our final dance for the class of 2022. This allowed us to hang out with our friends and really enjoy the last few weeks of school. Every-

body wants to know what I would do if I didn’t win… I guess we’ll never know,” Kalra said. “I’m really grateful for everyone who voted for me, nominated me, and ran with me. I had a lot of fun running for Queen. I would also like to give Maddie Cano a speacial thank you for doing my makeup and supporting me. Maddie, you’re amazing. You literally made me feel like a princess. Thank you. Origanally I wanted to run because I wanted to represent hispanic and plus sized girls, I wasn’t expecting to win but I did it. I wanted to show other girls not to be afraid to run and go for what they want to go for! Winning or not... it’s just high school. So have a big YOLO moment like me and just go for it,” Perez said. East High Schools 2022 prom was like no other. It really was a magical few hours, and our Scarlets came together in good, excitied spirits and had a wonderful time. The staff of the event was smiling and dancing just as much as the attandees. The DJ had kids jumping around until the very last minute of East High’s prom. There were pairs of high heels spread across the consisitory, and many girls were carrying them in their hands. We cannot thank our staff for organizing such a fun filled and awesome prom.

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Ms. Williamson is leaving East High School After 10 years at East she’s going home to Pennsylvania Story/G.Cook

photo/G.Cook

eaching English one, two, and three, sports literature, mass communication, graphic novels, journalism, Scarlet Ambassadors, and cheerleading assistant coach. These are all things Kortny Williamson has done in her ten years at East but after the 2021-2022 school year, she will be leaving. Kortny Williamson (Ms. Williamson) was born in Pennsylvania and is going to be moving back to be with her family again. She wants to move back so she can be more involved in her niece’s life. “My niece is starting to get into sports again and I want to be a part of her life again, she’s turning seven so it’s time,” Williamson said. In Pennsylvania, Williamson will continue to teach, and she has already accepted a teaching job. Ms. Williamson’s time at East has been long and very good. She has been here for ten years and has made many good memories. “I loved it, it became more of a family community than a job which is what I was looking for,” Williamson said. During her time at East, Ms. Williamson has experienced many cool things and fun times. One of her favorites was having Master P and Lil Romeo come to East and perform for everyone. This was her favorite because it brought all of East together. “It was really cool to see the student community in one place,” Williamson said. Ms. Williamson will be missed by every-

one in the East High School family, but we all appreciate her time spent at East. Let’s hear from some of the East high staff and hear what good things and memories they have of Ms. Williamson. During her ten years at East Ms. Williamson has meet many people and one of them is Holly Keuning. Ms. Keuning has known Ms. Williamson for two years and her favorite thing about her is how well she works with other people. “She’s always been a great person to work with, she’s supportive of students, she’s worked hard to welcome new teachers into the building, she’s very supportive and shares all her knowledge and her resources,” Keuning said. Another person Ms. Williamson has met during her time at East is, Trisha Buckley. Ms. Buckley has known Ms. Williamson for four years and her favorite thing about her is how similar they dress without meaning to. “We have a tendency to dress alike without planning it, the first time we met we were both wearing a black dress, sandals a necklace and we both have long straight hair and glasses. So, kids often get us confused and think were the other one,” Buckley said. Thank you, Ms. Williamson, for everything you have done for the East high school family. You’re very appreciated and you will be missed by all.

Ms. Williamsons favorite things to do outside of school: hang out with her friends

walk her dog

Photos/contributed

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Ms.Lee After eight years teaching at East, Judy Lee is leaving for Denver

You enter a room of success, Ms. Lee’s classroom. You gain the calm vibes of music playing and the smell of essential oils filling the room. Ms. Lee is always there to greet you with a smile. Lee is loved by all of her students. Lee is hard working, kind, thoughtful, caring person, but Lee will not be teaching at East High School anymore because she is moving. “I am moving to Denver. I was born and raised in Chicago so moving to Des Moines was quite a culture shock for me. I have a special place in my heart for Des Moines but I know in the long run I will thrive in a bigger city. I got a job in Denver Public Schools so I will be continuing teaching. I am so excited to live somewhere new to me and they have mountains,” Lee said. Lee lives with her fiancé Jose and their two cats Kimchi and Butters, who they call Boi. Lees home has a lot of anime stuff because Jose is an anime connoisseur which is also a little ironic, after all, Lee ais not super into anime. Yet, Lee has a lot of “Studio Ghibli” stuff, too, which Lee loves. Some of Lee’s hobbies include yoga, working out, experimenting with coffee and tea drinks, playing video games. Lee’s a huge JRPG (Japanese role-playing game) nerd Lee also love’s “Final Fantasy” and “Persona”, photography, traveling, and hiking. Some of Lee’s favorite memories would be traveling with Jose or her friends. She makes the time to travel and loves exploring new cities that she has never been to. One of Lee’s and Jose’s biggest goals is to travel to South Korea, which is where Lee is from. “At school, I’m always thinking about tomorrow, what I need to get done, a conversation a had with a student that’s still on my mind, etc. It’s kind of melded into my identity which is not ideal but I think I’m really working on making sure my career is not the reason I’m alive if that makes sense,” Lee said. “I feel like my proudest and biggest accomplishments are when I run into or hear from my students after they have graduated from East and when I hear what they are up to now. For example, one of my students is graduating from Iowa State this year with a degree in graphic design and it’s so amazing that I played a role in her journey. I also just ran into one of my students that I had my first year teaching at a metal concert and he was telling me how thankful he was that I encouraged him to graduate and now he’s apprenticing to be a tattoo artist. It’s these little moments that make me feel so happy,” Lee said. Aside from what you heard, Lee, was born on March 30, 1992. “THAT’S RIGHT, I am NOT in my 40s. Muahaha,” Lee said. Lee’s last thing to say to East. “I LOVE YOU, EAST HIGH SCHOOL! Thank you so much for these past eight years,” Lee said. story/P.Sleeth

Judy Lee with family, pets, and students.

Tenth grader Braydon Pinta “Best teacher, I’m glad I don’t need graphic design anymore, because I wouldn’t want to take the class without her,” Pinta said. “Ms.Lee tends to be very interactive and communicative teacher, always making the start of my day a lot brighter and more enjoyable,” Pinta said.

Tenth grader Orion Clark “She liked to try to motivate people to do their best. She helped everyday by walking around and checking on students progress with projects,” Clark said.

design/P.Sleeth

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East’s Departing Teachers

East’s teachers share memories, explain why they’re leaving, and share a final message for the students of East. As a final goodbye for the end of the year and their career at East story/ S. Melendez photos/S. Melendez

Patrick Reed What is your favoritePatrick or part abour East? Flex Academy Reed, Flex Science Teacher“ Number one memory is being able to help students that were way behind in Science credits, or didn’t fit into the

traditional classroom setting find a place to be successful/graduate. Second memory is the dedication of the faculty to helping all students succeed despite the many challenges the teachers face on a daily basis. Third memory is working with the girls cross country program the last four years,” Reed said. Why are you leaving and where are you going? A: “I’m taking a transfer, I’m going to be teaching at Alternative Pathways, and also working with Urban Dreams,” Reed said. What is your departing message for East students? A: “Once you’ve been an Eastsider, you’ll always be an Eastsider, and you should always try your best,” Reed said.

What is your favorite part about East? Randi Fitzgerald “The staff and the students. I firmly believe we have some of the best teachers in the whole world at East; they Social Studies Teacher care about students and get excited for students’ successes. But teachers aren’t great without great students. It’s hard to pick just one memory from East because I have so many. It has really been the everyday experiences bonding with students and staff. From students coming back to see me, to celebrating when my peers’ families grow, to spending time creating memories with students and staff alike, laughing and just being real. Why are you leaving and where are you going? “I am planning to go to Marshalltown Middle School. I have been commuting almost an hour, one direction for five years to work at East, and I would like to be closer to home. My new commute will be about fifteen minutes,” Fitzgerald said. What is your final message for the students of East? A: “I know you will be amazing, and I am always going to be cheering for you,” Fitzgerald said

Scott Roose Social Studies Teacher

What is your favorite memory or part about East? “The best part of East is the diversity and variety of people we get to come into contact with. Being part of discussions with people from so many walks of life makes for interesting and at times lively discussions,” Roose said. Why are you leaving, and where are you going? “ I’m leaving because a teaching opportunity closer to home came open. I live two miles from Pella, so when a teaching position came open there, it made sense to apply for,” Roose said. What is your departing message for East students? “Make the most of your educational opportunities. That is what opens the doors to bettering yourself, whether that means college, trade school, or a job after graduation,” Roose said.

What is your favorite part or memory about East? “There are many memories that I hold close to my heart. One that stands out is when I came back from being with my mother inRuby the Herrera, Spanish Ruby Herrera hospital in Michoacan, Mexico. My students from Latinos in Action leadership class organized a welcome back. Each one of them came walking in the door with sympathy rose and caring hug. My heart melted with joy! This act of kindness and these students Teacher are Spanish Teacher representative of how many amazing and loving students we have at East High. A month ago, my mom passed away. My heart continues to heal slowly. I will eternally be thankful for the love, patience, and understanding that I’ve received from East High staff and especially, my students,” Herrera said. Why are you leaving, and where are you going? “The decision to leave East is bittersweet and not an easy one to make. East High has been my home away from home for the last five years. I’ve had the privilege of teaching and getting to know the most wonderful students or ‘mijos / mijas’ as I like to call them from time to time. Nevertheless, the opportunity to start Latinos in Action leadership at Roosevelt presented itself, as well as, being closer to my daughter and our new home. But one thing is for sure, wherever I go I will always speak highly of East High school students and staff because one thing is for certain, I’m leaving behind part of mi corazón” Herrera said. Q: What is your departing message for East Students? “I will miss seeing your faces and contagious energy in and out of the classroom. I do hope that you dream big and plan accordingly. Remember to keep your cultural heritage roots strong and you will go further in life. You must know where you came from in order to know where you are going. Realize that the journey to success may not be an easy one but it will be so worth it. Do what sets your soul on fire! Listen to your elders, show up to spaces as your most authentic self, laugh often, be resilient, be a mentor, if there isn’t a space at the table bring your own chair, get curious, advocate for yourself and lastly, believe in the power of being you. Si se puede,” Herrera said.

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superintendent is someone who is the face of a school district, a CEO like figure that makes decisions and enforces policies. Thomas Ahart has been the superintendent for DMPS since March 12, 2013, and has worked for DMPS for nearly a decade. Ahart recently announced that his he is resigning effectively on June 30, 2022, and will be replaced by Matt Smith as an interim superintendent for the time being. Smith will lead DMPS for the 2022-2023 school year. As the incumbent superintendent, Thomas Ahart leaves to start his new chapter in his life it becomes the next chapter for up-and-coming superintendent Matt Smith and with so little time before the next school year starts, it would be nice to know the story of Matt Smith, and how he got to the position he is in now, and so let us dive into the interesting life of Matt Smith. Can you tell us about your family? “My wife Meredith and I have four kids... my oldest daughter Grace is graduating this year and she’ll be graduating from Roosevelt... My daughter Lily will be a junior at Roosevelt next year... my son Sam he’ll be a freshman at Roosevelt. This year, he’s at Merrill (Middle School)… and then my son Levi is six years old and he is a kindergartener at Perkins Elementary School... so 18 almost 16, 14 and six,“ For those who do not know, what does a superintendent do, what is the importance of the role? “Ultimately the role of the superintendent is to serve in a capacity for all students, all staff, and all families in the Des Moines community to not only represent the values of the community, but to see those enacted every day. In all spaces in classroom spaces, in cafeteria spaces where out students and staff and our families gather. So, the value, for example, is to create an environment where every student, staff, and families feel safe, they feel valued that they’re loved and cared for and they are academically challenged in spaces where they can be who they were created to be.”

story/C. Ramirez-Chavez illustration/C. Ramirez-Chavez

Matt Smith being interviewed by the East High School Scroll staff (Photo/Lopez Isabella) on May 13, 2022.

How do you plan to improve safety for the district? “The first way I would do that is that we have to continue and expand upon our current initiative of listening to students around what that definition of safety looks like. You make assumptions about what folks assume is a safe environment. We have to get to a point where we have a common definition around how we’re actually defining the term safety. Is it physical safety? Is it social emotional safety? Is it academic safety? The answer really is yes to all of them, right? Then getting to a point where we know (what) safety sounds and looks and feels like universally at every building, in every classroom and every space and then pulling together strategies to help support that. So, one of the most predominant strategies is to create those inclusive environments where students and staff and families see themselves and feel themselves through an asset based lens so there’s mindsets and dispositions around adults that we need to shift to make sure that folks know that you’re wanted in the building number one, and number two, when you’re there, we value everything that you bring to the table in the ‘you-ness’ and beauty that you actually possess because everybody has that right and everybody has those gifts and those talents. So, recognizing that in individuals is a mindset and a behavior disposition that we have to instill in every adult, every staff member and every stu-

dent but it begins with adults. So, having that level of safety brings folks to the table. How did you come to DMPS and how did you get the position you are now in? “So, I arrived to be the principal at North High School, that was in 2010 and so three years into that role, a position was the created that I thought I would be a good fit for because up to that point, I had been a principal for I think eight years and so three at North and then I was a principal in Texas. The position was executive director of learning services. Counseling, dropout prevention, activities, athletics, all of those aspects were all rolled into one position to supervise and create programming... so I was able to get that job. I did that job for 10 months and then at that time, the chief school’s officer in Des Moines left and I was 10 months into that executive director job and I was asked to step in as interim chief schools officer, which required me to no longer do the executive director job, but actually oversee all 60 schools in Des Moines... so I did that job as an interim and a year later, I was offered that job as a permanent position, so did that job for a few years... and I was then named associate superintendent... and so that’s kind of how I became associate superintendent.”

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‘21 - ‘22 PHOTO DUMP