East Scroll senior issue 2021

VOLUME 90

ISSUE 4

East Scroll

Senior issue 2021

Table of contents May 2021

Principal:

Feature Editor:

Advisor:

Multi-Media Editor:

Leslie Morris

Joselyn Hildebrand

Natalie Niemeyer-Lorenz Staffers:

Shukri Abdirahman, Devaki Adhikari, Abdifarhan Ahmed, Alexius Bloomer, Ena Marie Guerra Caballero, Christina Hernandez, Isabella Lopez, Aiom Makier, Carolina MendozaMedrano, Alex Miranda, Kendall Moss, Ptolemy Rimmer, Lyric Sellers, Kaylie Shannon, Natalie Taylor, Savannah West

Kylea Tackett Cover:

Maria Hernandez Back Cover:

Maria Hernandez TOC:

Kylea Tackett

Cover Models:

Co-editors in Chief:

Zanadia Cantu, William Chhim, Charity Bos, Alex Miranda, Jesus Martinez, Joselyn Hildebrand, Maria Hernandez, Kylea Tackett, Sawra Selema, Ena-Marie Guerra Caballero, Ryleigh Hayworth

Design Editor:

Letter Policy

Ryleigh Hayworth Sawra Selema Maria Hernandez Copy Editor:

Jesus Martinez-Aviles 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.

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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 Ads are available in quarter page, half page and full page sizes. Ad inquiries should be directed to Natalie Niemeyer-Lorenz 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 Wilcox Printing in Madrid, IA.

A legacy left behind With the class of 2021 graduating, the community reflects on the loss of the Eastside legend Dominic Reidburn

M

ay 29, 2021 would have been Dominic Reidburn’s high school graduation day. As this day gets closer, the East side community reflects on the legacy Reidburn left behind.

“Whether Dom was in the classroom, field, or gym, you knew he was there. With him gone, it just feels like an empty space. And it feels the same way for my friend group,” senior Skyler VanRiper said.

The East side legend passed away in a fatal car accident on Sept. 28, 2019. Since then the community of East High has remembered him in sports seasons, at graduation parties, daily occurrences like jewelry, cleats, shoes, and memorials in their rooms. Reidburn’s family also now holds an annual blood drive in his honor because he wanted to be an organ donor and was not able to.

“We would play every game with his jersey hanging up on the fence as if he were playing with us. Every day last year he would park in the same parking spot and we honored him by painting a 5 in that parking spot,” senior James Jefferson said.

At East High’s commencement, there will be a chair in honor of Reidburn where he would have sat and turned over the tassel on his cap.

Turning the tassel over after graduating is symbolic for crossing over from high school to a new stage in life. Even though Reidburn will not physically be doing this, friends and family continue to carry his presence with them in all stages of life.

A new stage after high school for Reidburn would have been playing college level sports like baseball and football.

“He was a hell of a ball player. I could’ve definitely seen him playing college baseball,” junior Symon Yates said.

Reidburn had played baseball since he was three years old. Reidburn’s baseball coach says that baseball was his true love.

“I think a lot of people can learn from what Dom used to do, be the type of kid that shows

up early, be a natural leader, willing to do anything to help the team, or do any type of work to try and make yourself be better. They are definitely things that all athletes can learn from that would benefit them and have success in whatever goals they wanna accom-

plish,” coach James Giboo said.

Many people around Reidburn noticed his hard work increased drastically throughout high school. He always had a good work ethic but coaches and friends say he became much more serious about setting bigger fitness goals.

“He was a late bloomer, he was always kind of small but he had hit a growth spurt and so did his work ethic. He was working with the guys and Coach Keonte White, he was starting to fill out and started looking like a really good athlete,” football coach Greg Schoon said.

Reidburn’s plans for college extended beyond his focus on athletics. He had huge goals for his career as well.

“He wanted to enter the Army reserves and take some criminal justice classes at DMACC, then join the police academy. He wanted to make a difference in our community, and change the perception of the East side for the better,” mother Mandy Reidburn said.

He told friends about his plans to join the police force.

“He was riding around with them (WDM police) in that summer of 2019 and he’d always show us. He’s been telling me those were his plans since sophomore year,” Jefferson said.

As the class of 2021 prepares to move on from East High School, Reidburn also left a great impact on other classes.

“I feel like Dominic’s death affected way more than just the class of 2021… After he passed we were all devastated, but when we were all feeling sad, we all came together and found comfort in each other,” junior Remmi Dyer said.

Many of Reidburn’s friends and family struggled to adjust to a world without him physically here. Reidburn passed away in the middle of his junior year football season. Teammates felt like the team was missing a puzzle piece.

“One day we were all watching him play football and the next day he was gone. We all went to homecoming together a couple weeks before, and him and I were dancing next to each other all night... It was very hard to accept we wouldn’t ever see him again, or play another game with him, but now we try to push even harder to make sure that he would be proud of our accomplishments,” junior Caden Kline said.

Reidburn’s friends and family will forever keep making him proud. They will always cherish memories and pieces of him with them to carry on his legacy as the Eastside legend.

Photo/ J. Hildebrand Story/ J. Hildebrand Page editor/ J. Hildebrand

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Navigating COVID-19 How have feelings about school and life changed since teenagers became eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine?

On April 5, the State of Iowa opened up COVID-19 vaccination eligibility to all Iowans over the age of 12. This means all high schoolers are now eligible and some middle schoolers. As eligibility increases, so does controversy. What is the best way to distribute vaccines? Some states have adopted a centralized approach. A Twitter account run by a good samaritan is as close as Iowa has gotten to a centralized method for announcing new appointment listings across the state (@IAVaccineAlerts).

“I decided to get vaccinated because I feel the faster we get vaccinated, the faster we can go back to something somewhat normal,” senior Tessah Smith said.

Vaccine hesitancy is very common. Only two-thirds of Iowans actually want to get vaccinated. This presents a problem. If a majority of the population doesn’t get vaccinated, herd immunity from COVID-19 will be very difficult to achieve. ““We have a large percent of staff that are vaccinated and that gives them protection, but as a community, my goal as a nurse is that we [East High] would reach herd immunity. The way we’re going to get to herd immunity is through vaccination... I am a huge proponent of vaccination,” school nurse Vicki Bonnet said.

Varying side effects and concern for potential long term effects of the vaccine are frequently cited reasons for not wanting to be vaccinated. After Smith was vaccinated,

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she experienced severe side effects. every year like the “Emotionally I was actually somewhat flu shot. Get it done relieved, but I was so nervous [to get the now, rather than later vaccine]. I had such bad butterflies in my to get it done and over with,” Smith said. stomach before and after I got the shot.

Des Moines Public Schools have been They give you so many papers and saying operating 100 percent in person since the the side affects and what they could be and middle of February, and school activities what to look out for it scared me, to be have started to go back to normal as the honest. Physically, after I got vaccinated I end-of-year events approach. Despite all of got a huge headache. It was the weirdest this, East has maintained relatively low comtype of headache. It was like right munity spread of COVID-19. behind the eyes and “We’re always dealing with situations in dull across your the nurses office relating to COVID-19, forehead. I had whether it’s a parent has it and no appetite at their children are quarantined, all. I went to or they were exposed at “I decided the ER later a family gathering, and to get vaccinated that night beso it seems like we’re cause it hurt to always dealing with because I feel the take a deep breath something like that faster we get vacciand to yawn. I just on a daily basis. felt like absolute I have been very nated, the faster we can impressed crap after the sun with the go back to something fact that there doesn’t went down. I was shaking and puking. seem to be a lot of somewhat normal” school It was horrible. For spread and I the next three days I was think that does attribute Tessah Smith puking every night and had to a good level of complithe worst headache and stomance of students with the mitigaach ache. Even now my headaches are tion strategies,” Bonnet said. so easily obtained and it sucks. I have never When students originally been so tired since I got it,” Smith said. returned to school 100% Despite all this, Smith recommends you in-person, most teachers get vaccinated when you have the chance. were yet to be vacci“I was hesitant at first but it’s worth it. nated. Many students are We’re probably going to have this vaccine relieved that they are now

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VACCINATION eligible.

“Now that I am fully vaccinated I feel so vaccinated I feel so much more comfortable about being in school. While the risk is very low I know that I was extra cautious about everything I did and keeping track of everyone who I was near, just incase they test positive. Now that I am vaccinated it makes me a lot less stressed and I am more able to relax and have have fun at school, it’s like a weight has been lifted off my chest,” junior Arlene Nepple said.

As of the end of April, Hyvee Pharmacy is offering walk-in vaccination appointments. Overcoming vaccine hesitancy is how herd immunity will be achieved.

“I would say to other Vicki Bonnet students that may not want to get the vaccine that it is like voting, you may not think your vote matters, but in the long time it does just like one more vaccinated person brings us closer to herd immunity so that we can get life back to normal,” Nepple said.

Until everyone can be vaccinated, it is important that masks continue to be worn and social distance continue to be kept.

“This isn’t over yet. It really won’t be over until we get some herd immunity through vaccination,” Bonnet said.

“This isn’t over yet.”

COVID VACCINES BY THE NUMBERS 41%

of all Iowans are fully vaccinated

346 million

doses have been administered nationwide

August 9th

is the date by which the CDC projects Iowa to be 85% vaccinated

14 months

spent fighting COVID-19 so far

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Des Moines Public schools is starting a new athletic conference in the 2022-23 school year with five other schools.

Roosevelt Mason City Marshalltown

Fort Dodge

Ames

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Ottumwa

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Participation rates have been going down the past years, but making this new conference is a hope that the rates might go up.

“Making a new conference would get our participation rate up,” Fedders said.

High school students love playing in a sports program that is successful, that goes deeper than just wins and losses. It goes from having a supportive coach who cares about your health, academics, who supports you emotionally and mentally. Also being around friends and getting cheered from students who go from your school.

“The pros outweigh the cons, we’re going to be more competitive night in and night out,” Fedders said.

DMPS is going to be playing schools that compare to us, from economic status to communities. Forming a new conference would make things fit for all the groups of schools, it’ll drive school spirt, more participation rates, and lastly more fun for everyone. “This new conference would be such a good fit for DMPS, and games will be more fun and competitive,” freshman Jecari Patton said.

“You have to believe you can win before you can actually win,” wrestling coach James Giboo said.

Going into games playing the suburban schools, some athletes get anxious going against schools with better winning records.

Some have negative mindsets going in, but making a new conference with schools DMPS can compete would help.

“The new conference is a good idea and should’ve happened a long time ago, this gives schools like ours a better feeling about playing sports,” senior DaJanique Crockett said.

The making of the new conference would bring more equal competitive balance, ideally higher participation numbers as a result of that competitive balance, and more flexible scheduling in a smaller league.

Hoover

Fort Dodge, Ames, Ottumwa, Roosevelt, Hoover, East, Marshalltown, Mason City, North and Lincoln. What do all of these schools have in common? They will be departing the CIML Conference at the end of the 2021-22 season.

The CIML consists of 19 schools. Of those 19, nine are considered the ‘suburban schools’: Ankeny, Ankeny Centennial, Dowling Catholic, Johnston, Southeast Polk, Urbandale, Valley, Waukee. These schools tend to have more success. The ‘non-suburban schools’ are Ames, East, Hoover, Lincoln, North, Roosevelt, Fort Dodge, Marshalltown, Mason City and Ottumwa.

East High School has been in the CIML Metro since it started in 1991, DMPS has been competing in the conference for about 30 years. Our record for the past years hasn’t been the greatest in our conference and other schools in the new conference relate to the same win/lose record. DMPS schools have only about a 14 percent winning record in eight sports; basketball, soccer, baseball, football, volleyball, and softball.

The new conference will debut in the 2022-23 school season, all sports would be affected since we’re pulling out of everything. The decision making of the new conference has been going on for about 2 years, and a little bit longer because of the pandemic.

“The change in the conference will allow us to be more competitive,” Athletics and activities director Lyle Fedders said.

In the past 2020-21 boys’ basketball season, East boys had the most successful season winning four games. Those four games the boys won; those teams were in our new conference. The games were joyful to watch, more competitive, and successful day in and day out.

“I think the new conference will be good for DMPS programs and schools,” new East High boys’ basketball coach Ryan Chad said.

Lincoln

Page editor/A.Makier Story/A.Makier

East

Central Iowa Metro League

North

DMPS LEAVING

Taking a stance by kneeling

As many student athletes make the decision to kneel during the National Anthem, east students talk about their personal experiences and give insight on why they kneel.

Imagine being at a high school track meet and it's time for the National Anthem. You kneel while the anthem is being played to show sup- “ port for your fellow African Americans and yourself, who are fighting for equality in this country.

This is a normal routine for you and many other student athletes. You stand up after the anthem ends and as you are getting ready for the meet to start, a coach comes up to you and attempts to explain to you why you shouldn’t be kneeling.

Why do African Americans kneel during the anthem?

Kneeling during the national anthem began in 2016 when NFL player Colin Kaepernick knelt during the anthem to call attention to the police shootings of unarmed Black people in America.

Kneeling during an NFL game brought more attention to the Black Lives Matter Movement.

“I kneel for the national anthem because this country hasn’t done anything

for my people, and I will not respect a flag after what has been going on with this country,” Junior Eve Canmu said.

Is it disrespectful to kneel during anthem?

Some can find kneeling during the anthem disrespectful because it can be seen as disrespecting people who fight for this country like the military.

“It's freedom of speech. And it's fine if you believe it’s disrespectful but you can look the other way.

There is no need to come give me your opinion about it,” junior Kosha Shaddin said.

Often when people of color kneel during the national anthem they can be bashed or shamed for kneeling. In Colin Kaepernick’s case, he was seen as problematic by NFL owners and hasn’t

It's freedom of speech. And it's fine if you believe it’s disrespectful but you can look the other way. There’s no need to come give me your opinion about it” - Kosha Shaddin

Story/S.Selema Page editor/S.Selema Photo/S.Selema

played in the league since 2017.

What do you say to people who are thinking about kneeling?

“I want to say to the younger generation who are deciding if they should kneel or not, I want them to use their voice because if they don’t speak up it's not going to get better, I want them to use the power they have and what’s right,” Canmu said.

Because of the reaction of people not approving kneeling during the anthem. It may make some people uncomfortable about kneeling. Some students haven’t gotten the best response when kneeling so it might not make them not want to do it anymore because they aren’t getting any support.

If there is no one standing up for the problems going on with BLM then it will not encourage other students to stand up for their rights.

“If you are thinking about kneeling, you should just do it. Yes, people are going to stare and talk, but you’re kneeling to make a change and no one else’s opinion should matter,” junior

“I kneel for the national anthem because this country hasn’t done anything for my people,” -Eve Camnu

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William Chhim

Page editor/ J.Martinez-Aviles Story/ J.Martinez-Aviles

Meet East High’s class of 2021 Valedictorian

H

igh school is said to be the best it wasn’t going to work out, but after putting valedictorian is no easy task. years of your life. You can never in all that hard work, all the AP classes I “There were definitely times where I go wrong with giving it your all in every took this year, which was a struggle, I got thought about not taking the hard classes, aspect. The valedictorian of the senior class it. So, it was definitely a proud moment of not pushing any harder... there were is seen as the highest academic achieving mine,” Chhim said. definitely times where I thought about student to graduate. Out of a class of 487 There were also many strategies and giving up and going the easy route,” Chhim students, William Chhim is number one materials Chhim used in order to ensure his said. when it comes to grade point average. Not educational success.

However, Chhim explains how he was only this, but he also juggled playing sports “One thing that really saved me with able to go through the issue of wanting to and musical instruments, such as tennis, taking all the extra curriculars alongside give up and leave it all behind. weightlifting, running, biking, violin, and my AP classes was my planner. Finding “Something that drives me is not wanting occasionally the piano. However, it is no everything out, knowing when things to be mediocre, not wanting to be average. simple task to get to this point. are due, staying on top of my grades, I just want to be the best version of me, Chhim recalls how he began to be communicating with my teachers if I have because that is what is actually fulfilling in involved and work hard on the things he is a game...putting in the work whenever life,” Chhim said. part of today.

I don’t feel like it...

When Chhim is asked who has inspired “When I was in seventh grade, my choosing to put in the him the most to get the where is he is now, mom opened up her first doughnut shop, work now rather he responds quickly and confidently. which is what our family does. I remember than suffer “My parents... they’re hard workers. waking up at three in the morning and later,” Chhim said. They came to this country with nothing and working there for about six hours... That Speaking watching them work hard, their dedication, was on top of my schooling, that was on truthfully, Chhim waking up every single day to provide for us top of my clubs, everything that I was is not afraid to definitely motivated me to want to become in. So, experiencing that and enduring admit that becoming successful and build a better life, not just that hardship has helped me persevere for me but also to give back to my parents,” through obstacles that I know I can make it Chhim said. through,” Chhim said.

Chhim offers a friendly piece of advice The family of Chhim are immigrants for lowerclassman looking to succeed. from Cambodia, making him a first “Find your purpose. Find something generation Asian-American. that drives you so you can get up every day “I remember my parents. I remember focused... High school is full of distractions. what they go through as well. They didn’t You have all of these people wanting to sacrifice their lives for me to be average. I throw you off the track... but once you keep pushing, no matter the circumstances, find your purpose and what drives you, no matter the obstacles, I fight for every those distractions won’t get you off course moment,” Chhim said. because you know what you’re doing... that Given Chhim’s fighter instinct and ambition, find it,” Chhim said.

As he continues to give advice, Chhim dedication, there was no doubt he would states what every student should do in their become valedictorian. Now, he celebrates his high school years. recompense.

“Savor the moment. As a senior in high “I’m excited for all of the hard work that school, I have gone through the motions I put in because it was actually my goal to be working hard, but forgetting to enjoy life as valedictorian... I set my self a goal sophomore year well.

Just try to appreciate who you have in your that I wanted to be valedictorian,” Chhim said. life right now because you don’t know when Every success story has its bumpy roads. they’ll leave,” Chhim said.

However, Chhim made sure to get right back on As a hard-working student in high school, track. one will go through difficult times. However, “I sorta gave up on it because I was third in it should prepare you for what you will face in my class for the longest time, and I just thought real life.

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Photography/ J.Martinez-Aviles

Photo/ J.Martinez-Aviles “The challenges in school are nothing compared to what I have already experienced,” Chhim said.

East High counselor Natalie Madsen has been Chhim’s school counselor since the first day of his 10th grade year at East.

Madsen tells about her journey with Chhim.

“If I could describe William in three words, they would be: thoughtful, ambitious, and hard-working. He is a natural leader. It’s been so fun to watch him grow as a student and as a person over the past three years,” Madsen said.

Madsen continues to express her amusement in seeing Chhim’s high school goals come true.

“I’m very happy for William becoming valedictorian. In the first few weeks of meeting William as a sophomore, he told me that his goal was to graduate first in his class. He has worked really hard to reach this goal and I could not be more proud of him,” Madsen said.

Even amongst the wild high school search for a successful future, Chhim is procuring and putting together his career goals.

“My current plans after high school are going to college... I’m going to major in

Photo/ Contribution

Bio-Chem and hopefully go to grad school at University of Iowa to be an ER Pharmacist,” Chhim said.

Chhim explains the reason behind his interest in the career he will be pursuing.

“I just like helping people in general and through medicine, I could help a variety of people, not just in America, but I want to serve the whole world... travel with a volunteer or with a nonprofit... Just change the world pretty much,” Chhim said.

With the big plans that Chhim has, there are people like Madsen who fully support him and wish him the best.

“I am super excited about William’s plans for after high school and am confident that he will continue to excel at the college level. He’s prepared himself for the new

challenge by taking numerous AP-level and dual-credit courses throughout high school. Beginning college can be a big adjustment, but I couldn’t be more excited for what is next in store for him,” Madsen said.

Reflecting on his trajectory at East High, Chhim expresses his gratitude and appreciation to East High faculty and staff for everything they have done, despite the drawbacks of COVID-19.

“To whoever is reading, the staff and faculty, I appreciate all of the dedication, the hard work that the teachers have been putting in the last year because this definitely wasn’t the easiest year to prepare for students and they still made it somewhat of an enjoyable experience for our last year as senior,” Chhim said.

As the valedictorian of East High’s class of 2021, Chhim shares his final remarks through the East high Scroll.

“It is easy to be stuck in the past or worrying about the future, but the only moment we can truly control is now, the power of the present,” Chhim said.

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. .

Spot the difference Take one last look at our science teachers who will be leaving this year.

Can YOU spot the 8 differences?

Page Editor/ I. Lopez Illustration/ I. Lopez

Mr. Rudisill Mr. Long Mrs. Duncan Mr. Larkin

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1. Mr. Rudisill’s shirt color 2. Mr. Rudisill’s left shoe 3. Mr. Long’s glasses 4. Mr. Long’s badge ID 5. Mrs. Duncans tank top color 6. Mrs. Duncans earrings 7. Mr. Larkins watch on right hand 8. Mr. Larkins pant color

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photo/ M. Hernandez story/ M. Hernandez page editor/ M. Hernandez

FUn Facts about community colleges There are 1,044 community colleges in the united states

1.

info/ aacc.nche.edu

50% of undergraduates in the u.s. are from community colleges.

2.

info/ dmacc.edu

First lady Jill Biden has taught at a Community College.

3.

info/ whitehouse.gov

DMACC has six campuses around iowa (Ankeny, Boone, Carroll, Newton Urban/Des Moines West Des Moines).

4.

info/ dmacc.edu

Have any questions about community colleges? Email your counselor!

Battling the stigma behind community colleges

Dumb, broke, cheap, under-achieving, too easy, boring, another version of high school. These are some negative connotations of community colleges and the students who attend them, but these stereotypes are far from true. The stigma around community college can be damaging because students think less of themselves and these schools that can be beneficial to them.

“If the stigma is that community college is a ‘poor man’s path to a higher education’ that is so much farther from the truth.

Yes, community college will save you a lot of money and, in my opinion, the smarter route to go,” DMACC alum Brock Van Loon said.

Many think that going to community college means that you are poor or unintelligent, but many who attend just want to ease into the college experience. Community colleges, like Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), have so many great opportunities that students miss because of the stigma around them. One could take general education classes, so they do not have to at a university or join a program specific to the career they want to pursue.

It’s time to look past other people’s views of what a community college means and who goes there, and to look at how everyone can benefit from going to one.

“I just feel as though, DMACC has what I need to succeed, just like any other school,” senior Jessenia Burton said.

Students also attend community colleges because they have specific programs that will benefit them directly and the careers they hope to pursue.

“Benefits include financials and being close to home,” counselor Ashlee Duimstra said.

College can be expensive, especially when you pay for it on your own. As of 2021, the cost to attend DMACC is typically less than $200 per credit hour (a typical fulltime college student has 12 or more credit hours per semester), for two semesters the cost of tuition is around $6,000. This saves students a lot of money in the long run and if the plan is to transfer to a 4-year university this money saved up could be used for other college experiences.

“If you stay on top of what transfers from your community to four-year university the transfer will be seamless,” Van Loon said.

“If you are thinking of going to a community college, do it, whatever college you choose is valid.”

Many students who attend a two-year community college plan to transfer to a four-year university to finish their degree.

A former transfer student from DMACC to the University of Northern Iowa, Brock Van Loon, attended DMACC and got his general classes done before he went to UNI. This saved him a lot of money and stress, he was also able to have ‘the college experience’ at a state school. Community college is also a great option for people who do not know what they want to major in, you have an extra two years to figure that out before a university, if you plan to transfer.

“If you are thinking of going to a community college, do it, whatever college you choose is valid,” Burton said.

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Zanadia Cantu

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Last dance in the

spotlight

photo/K.Tackett

story/K.Tackett

It’s crazy how one day we’re sitting in sixth grade, wishing we were older, wishing we could date, wishing we could drive. And then, one day you wake up and it’s senior year and you realize: it went too fast. High school is a crazy time for all, and senior Zanadia Cantu is no exception.

Let’s go back to the beginning. Cantu was born in Muscatine, Iowa then raised right here on the Eastside of Des Moines. She grew up with her mom and four younger siblings.

“My favorite memory growing up was when I was eleven and we went to Texas to visit some cousins. I got to see the ocean for the first time,” Cantu said.

Struggles are a part of life, Cantu recollected a time when she had to face her struggles head on. She mentions that when she was twelve, she had to take on a parent role to help her mom raise her siblings, something no child imagines in their childhood.

“I wasn’t able to go out as much as other kids my age, but I’m glad I was able to create such strong bonds with my siblings,” Cantu said.

Everyone is inspired by someone.

Whether it be a parent, friend, teacher or even themselves. Cantu has always been an inspiration to others, but who inspires her?

Her mother. She looks up to her mom for being kind to everyone no matter what she is facing in her personal life.

“While she hasn’t always been dealt the best cards, no matter what she tries her best to welcome and help others in any way she can,” Cantu said.

Four years go too fast in high school.

Cantu looked back at each year of school at East High. She describes freshman year as a mix of good and bad.

“I was able to meet a few good friends while learning about my love for music in show choir,” Cantu said.

Cantu says she found herself sophomore year. She got more involved and discovered her passions through theatre and choir.

“I enjoyed being so involved in the theatre and music programs. I met so many amazing and kind people,” Cantu said.

Junior year was just as amazing as her sophomore year. She steadily performed in the departments fall performance of “Sister Act” and got cast in the spring play.

“Everything was going smoothly until spring break when everything was interrupted by COVID-19,” Cantu said.

The class of 2021 has dealt with many hardships while being a basically all virtual class. With activities being cancelled, Cantu says she appreciates the fact that although it hasn’t been a normal year, she is grateful things are finally becoming a bit more normal.

“Eventually we went back in person, and we were even able to have a prom. While everything isn’t how I imagined, it’s definitely a senior year I’ll remember,” Cantu said.

They say high school is when you find yourself. You discover your passions and your dreams, and Cantu is no exception.

“The biggest thing I learned in high school is that you have to learn to rely on yourself more than others, because no matter what, you are the person who can best help yourself,” Cantu said.

With graduation around the corner, Cantu plans on going to The University of Northern Iowa next fall to major in Social Work and then later get her master’s degree in social work.

page editor/K.Tackett

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Many tiring days Overworked seniors

photo illustration/ A. Bloomer

My eyes are heavy. I am on the way to the night or a couple of nights to finish their school by 8:25 a.m. and realize I haven’t had work. time to eat anything yet. I walk into my sec“Usually students who have jobs, especially ond period and see that there is a sub and the seniors are a little more focused because they teacher left us a test to take, but I forgot to now have to prioritize their time because they study last night. School ends at 3:25 p.m. and do not have a lot of time outside of school to work begins at 4 p.m., I get off around 11 do schoolwork,” teacher Mrs. Anderson said. p.m. or later with a headache and body aches Many seniors have had to sacrifice their everywhere. Now, that I’m off I need to do (Picture or illustrations will be here) schoolwork, and try to make sure to get some sleep to start the same day all over again tomorrow. Seniors, especially the class of 2021, have been tied to this routine, and the pandemic has made it worse as students have become essential workers.

East High School senior Rico Sandoval has been working for the past two years, but since last year he has been working more hours than usual. Former student Destiny Rivas has also worked unusual hours for a teenager who was in high school. When the pandemic started in March 2020 many seniors and juniors at the time were told/ plans with friends and family, and their time forced to get a job during their free time. and effort towards things that they love to foSince school was put on hold for the rest of cus more on their job. They do not have time the school year many students got a job to for extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, keep busy, working 40 or more hours a week, or the hobbies that they are interested in. Jobs making them essential workers, but now that that are low staffed have always given teenagschool is back in person it has put a toll on ers more hours and some do not understand them trying to juggle school, work, extra that they might have school and after school circulars, and their social life all at once. activities.

“Since I started working more hours “When I worked at QuikTrip during my last March, it has been tough to wake up in senior year, I never had time for relationships the morning because right after school I go or hanging out with my friends after school. It straight to work. I never have time to study really caused many of my friendships to end after school, so I try my best to focus in class, because I was always working,” Rivas said. but it is hard since I have no motivation or While working so much, you tend to lose energy,” Sandoval said. interest in the things that you used to love and They have to use their class time more enjoyed because you never have time to see or wisely and try to put more effort to get evdo those things in your free time. erything done in one block, instead of having “I never have time to do the things I enjoy

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story/ A.Bloomer page editor/ A. Bloomer

or see the people I love. It made me lose contact with people and I lost all interest in my old hobbies,” Sandoval said.

While there are many cons of having a job while in school, there is also many pros and benefits to having a job,such as being able to provide for yourself, buying gifts for loved one, and buying yourself things that your parents or guardians cannot provide. But this is not the case for everyone, many students during this time have been contributing to their family’s source of income in their household by helping pay the bills and buy the essentials.

“They’re juggling more responsibility by having a job and some students that are not even seniors have to help support their family financially, which gives them an even bigger workload than a usual teenager with a job,” Mrs. Anderson said.

Seniors have a heavier workload when they have a job. They have to focus on school and start thinking about their future, like where they want to go or what they want to do after graduation. Having a job while trying to prioritize school and think about the future is stressful on them, but they are all working hard in school and at work!

Tips for staying on track: 1. make a calendar to keep

track of school, work or other activities 2. stay on time with school assignments 3. take a break from work and school to focus on yourself. Do something you love

Page editor/ A.Miranda

A home away from home

Most seniors stay in Iowa for college, here are some stories of seniors that will be saying goodbye to their hometown Many seniors at East High School stay in Iowa for college. Not many decide to leave for college, but a few are. The few seniors that are leaving their hometown and where they grew up and leaving their family. Their childhood park they played at when they were little and the many friends they grew up with and leaving all the memories behind. Excitement, fear, anxiousness is all going through seniors’ head as college comes around the corner. But one thing all seniors have in common is, they are all excited for the future.

Abbi Webb

One of the seniors that won’t be in Iowa for college is Abbi Webb she will be attending The University of Sioux Falls in the fall in South Dakota she plans on majoring in psychology and minoring in social work.

“I chose The University of Sioux Falls in South Dakota because their campus is nice, the city is beautiful, and It looks like I am still in Des Moines,” senior Abbi Webb said.

Abbi has been involved in many things in East, such as National Honor Society, Scarlet Squad and Track and field she plans to be in South Dakota for the next four years running for track there, “One of the things I am most excited for in the fall is meeting new friends and getting to live in a different state and a change of scenery but also running track for Sioux Falls” Webb said.

The University of Sioux Falls is a medium size college. It is not a big college, it is not a small college also, but it is just right. After college Abbi does not know what she wants to do after, but she plans on working in a pediatric psych ward and plans on coming back to Iowa after college, but she does not know just yet.

Sujata Bajgai

and theatre. She is most excited about attending in person in the fall for college.

“The reason why I applied to this college is because it has a lot of programs but it had all the programs I was looking for, I am looking forward for college but to also be there in the fall in person seeing as it was virtual most of the time because of the pandemic,” senior Sujata Bajgai said, Duquesne University in Pennsylvania is a private college ranked 143 in the country for best colleges in National Universities.

“What I’m most excited about leaving for college is that I will get to work with different people and get to live in a new place and get to explore a new state, the new experience is what I am most excited for,” Bajgai said.

Leaving a state you’ve been in your entire life and can be difficult, after high school Sujata plans to follow her dreams and not come back to Iowa but to pursue her passion.

“After college I will not be coming back to Iowa, I want to work in New York City after college, I want to work with producers and directors and learn from them” Bajgai said,

Daja Crockett

Dajanique plans on going to Alabama A&M in Huntsville Alabama. She is majoring in Criminal Justice. Alabama A&M was one of the top schools she has always wanted to go “It is a HBCU (historically black college/ university) that has very great programs in many different areas,” senior Dajanique Crockett said.

Dajanique has been in many sports/clubs such as volleyball, track and upward bound what she is most excited for is to make new friends and live in a whole new state. She also sets goals being in another state for college.

“My goal is to make it on the deans list, I am looking forward to meeting new people and making friends… I plan to come back to Iowa or live in Alabama and become a lawyer,” Crockett said,

Tessah Smith

Finally, Tessah Smith will be majoring in marine biology and minoring in marine fisheries at Texas A&M in Galveston, Texas. She was inspired on choosing this college and cant wait to join in the fall.

“My marine biology professor went to this school and became a doctor in marine biology and I basically know all the cheers there already because of how much we did them in class. But mainly because it’s on its own little island and it has a sea facility for rescuing beached animals in need and a broodstock facility where we breed fish and it’s known to be a great school for the marine field,” senior Tessah Smith said.

Tessah is most excited to finally be on the beach, she will be half way across the country from her family, but she will be surrounded by the things she loves the most.

“It is a little bit nerve wrecking to think I’ll be moving to another state without family, but I’ve wanted to be a marine biology since 2009 when I first saw the beach and fell in love, I’m ecstatic and can’t believe in a couple of months I’ll finally be doing what I’ve always wanted to do and love,” Smith said.

All four of these seniors are excited to be at the college they applied for and pursuing their dream careers. They are looking forward for the fall school year meeting new friends and being in another state. If you ever wanted to go out of state for college you should go and take that risk, college isn’t a lifetime and you have your whole life ahead of you. You’re still young this article was to encourage underclassmen who want to go out of state for college but are not sure.

Sujata will also not be in Iowa for college. She will be attending Duquesne University in Pennsylvania; she will be double majoring in business

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on

M o r r i s

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with two accomplished seniors

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he high energy at games and around the school was one of the reasons Morris’s favorite year was his freshman year. In his first year, he was involved in football, wrestling, and long distancing for track. Since then, he has been involved in many other activities such as band counsel, Vice president of GSA, Antiracist Inequity Team, National Honor Society and was a bugler for the military post.

“I really appreciate students and staff doing their best to make this year better. I’m going to miss everyone but I’ll still be in touch with the school. I wish the best of luck to students and staff these next years on recovering from the pandemic”

“I personally had a lot of fun, classes were easier, school spirit was really high, and everyone was active during the football games,” Morris said.

One of Morris’s biggest achievements at East was being first

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chair at Iowa State University Honors Band. He was originally place last chair because they did not expect much from him being an East student. It was unfair to him because he was a student just like everyone else. Until he finally got someone to listen to him. They moved him to the first chair which made him feel proud knowing they did not see him as an East student but a talented player.

“When someone sees you’re from East you get held against a prejudice and they automatically expect way less from you... it was nice to break that seal that we all kind of trapped under,” Morris said.

Seniors did not have a typical year. With the global pandemic shutting down school late their junior year, it kept Morris from doing the things he liked. Although it was not what anyone wanted, it allowed extra time for him and many others to discover their true selves. Leading to his senior year he has learned many things about himself and others and learned to be independent and learned to be successful on his own.

“I am just glad that the under-classmen will, as the way it looks right now, get a normal senior year. What happened to our class and the one above us was tragic, and as everyone knows senior year is supposed to be your best year. So, I’m glad they get the opportunity and get to do the things we never got to do,” Morris said.

After high school, Morris plans to go to DMACC to become an RN and then go to Mercy College to get his bachelor’s in nursing.

He plans to become a Pediatric Nurse here in Des Moines and give back to the kids here in the community.

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C h a r i t y

B o s

Page editor/ I. Lopez Story/ I. Lopez

W

alking into the doors of a high school are not always easy, especially at a big school like East. Bos was nervous high school was not going to be as good as she thought it would be but found amazing friends and teachers who helped turn that around. Such as Ms. Niemeyer who has been her favorite teacher since freshman year. She also started to get involved in softball and basketball where she met new people.

“I definitely think my freshman year was really crazy. Weird yet fun at the same time,” Bos said.

In the past four years Bos was achieving things that she did not think she would ever do. School never came easy to her especially

“I’m so grateful to have spent my four years at East High School and I’m going to miss all my amazing teachers who have made such a great impact on my life, and who have helped build me into the student I am today... Once a Scarlet always a Scarlet for life”

in middle school but with determination and dedication she has climbed to now be tenthth in her class with a 4.11 GPA, with those achievements, more opportunities arose, and she got into clubs that only students having high goals can get into. She knew she had to set high goals to be academically strong for herself now so she shell be ready for what challenges college will bring.

“I’ve worked my butt off to get As every single term and

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Photos/ I. Lopez

semester to get as high as I can in class rank. I am not number one, but I am close,” Bos said.

Senior year did not really begin to become “normal” until February. At the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year 100 percent virtual was implemented by the district. Using computers most of the year Bos learned to become tech savvy which is not a terrible thing considering it is a good skill to have. Although being virtual was not easy it did not stop her from having fun. She joined many more activities as soon as school started in person again like tennis, Scarlet Squad, National Honors Society, Ambassadors, Student Government, and yearbook.

“I would say my senior year has been crazy but overall, it’s been good though even though we were virtual half the year,” Bos said.

As high school is coming to an end Bos looks back and realized how she has learned to become more open-minded and not let things affect her. She realized that friends come and go and to let go of the ones that brought her down. She grew as a person and has become more mature and has prepared herself for the real world.

She plans to go to Simpson College to major in education with an endorsement in US history and minor in mass communications for journalism.

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Scrolll Seniors Scrol

story/S.Abdirahman page editor/S.Abdirahman photo/N.Niemeyer

D

Find out more about East High senior journalists

esigners, reporters, writers, researchers, editors, interviewers… these are all words to describe the student journalists at East High School. The senior student journalists have seen it all, find out more about them and their experiences with newspaper over the last four years.

Maria Hernandez is the design editor. Her job is to look over other staffer’s designs and edit them to make sure they are the best they can be.

She has taken newspaper since her sophomore year. She is going to miss the atmosphere and the friendships that she has built in this class.

“I have built lifelong friendships, learned lessons that I will always use and made memories that I will always remember,” Hernandez said.

Alex Miranda is a student journalist. He writes about topics that are important and need to be addressed. In the last issue he wrote about Asian hate crimes. Miranda joined this class his senior year, but he wishes he joined earlier because he loves it.

“What I am going to miss most about this class is that we get to write about whatever we want… I feel more free in this class,” Miranda said.

Ena Marie Guerra Caballero has been a Scroll staff member since her sophomore year as well.

Her role is to write about anything she is interested in and getting out of her comfort zone.

Her experiences with this class have been very positive and she loves how close and respectful everyone in this class is.

“I would love to say thank you to Ms. Niemeyer for everything she has done to make newspaper amazing and getting me interested in journalism. Also, thank you to all the Scroll staffers for being absolutely great and supportive with everything I write or express about in this class,” Guerra Caballero said.

Joselyn Hildebrand is a feature editor. She reviews feature stories and proofreads rough and final drafts. She has been on the Scroll staff since the second semester of her freshman year. One of her favorite experiences with this class was when she went on a five day journalism camp at the University of Iowa. She will miss making new friends and the excitement of seeing the published newspaper in real life.

“We always need new Scroll staffers! Take Journalism 1 then join newspaper. You won’t regret it,” Hildebrand said.

Sawra Selema is editor in- chief of the scroll.

Her job is to lead the class and help plan. Her

East High Scroll

and Ryleigh make calendars for the class and they also edit papers. Selema has been in scroll since the second semester of her sophomore year. She says that this class radiates such great energy and even on her worst days, this class would bring her much joy.

“If you want to be heard or give people voices, this is the class to be in. I hope students will always have this class after years to come because it’s very important that we are heard, we are the future,” Selema said.

Ryleigh Hayworth is editor-in-chief, along with Sawra. She plans deadlines, makes edits, and teaches others the skills she has learned. She’s been on Scroll staff since the second semester of her freshman year, and she never expected newspaper to be such an important part of her high school experience. She loves being leader of the class. Helping and teaching staff members new techniques has been some of her most rewarding memories.

“There is nothing better than cracking open a box of freshly printed Scroll issues and seeing our hard work materialize… Anything I wanted to learn about or learn how to do I’ve been free to do it, and I hope every newspaper student takes advantage of that,” Hayworth said.

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Kylea Tackett is the multi-media manager.

She posts on social media on behalf of the class.

She has been on Scroll staff for 2 years and she loves this class. She joined with no experience and now she is an editor. She loves being creative in a fun and laid back environment. She is going to miss the satisfaction of finishing an issue and hanging out with friends.

“If you have the opportunity, get involved in the Scroll. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Tackett said.

Jesus Martinez-Aviles is a scroll staffer. He likes to write about issues that are important such as discrimination, diversity, inclusion, etc.

He’s been on Scroll staff since his junior year.

His favorite memory was when he got the privilege to write the double page spread on the topic of undocumented students and staff at East High School. He is going to miss how the whole class would work together to complete an amazing project. He says that there is no better feeling in newspaper than writing about what you love and then telling others about it.

“Natural writers are born when there is a passion to strive them. If you have something to say, say it. There are a lot of people waiting to hear a passionate person,” Martinez-Aviles said.

Preparing for your future Planning for you college life after high school and ways to help you get into your dream college Your junior and senior years of high school are some of the most important years of your education. Preparing yourself for college is a big step you take after high school. Preparing before your senior year can take a lot of stress of your shoulders. Here are three things you can do to help you find ways to be ready for college.

Extra-curricular activities and groups: While it is important to include yourself in different extracurricular activities and groups that are related to your interest or field of academic interest, many colleges also want to see that you have a wide interest of different things. Joining different groups in school like Science Bound, Upward Bound, ETS, etc.

These are all groups that look good on applications for college. Having different activities and groups on an application is what things some colleges look for when they are looking to accept people into their college because it shows them you have a good work ethic.

“Organizations like the National Honor Society, EI Exito, Church Groups, and many organizations aid in college entrance. The key is to get involved in extra-curricular organizations while continuing to get good grades,” teacher Nancy Duncan said.

Narrowing down your college list: As you go into your junior and senior year narrowing down your college list is important. If you’re stuck on what colleges to pick flipping your perspective could help you.

Instead of asking yourself “where do you want to go to college” try to ask yourself, “where do you not want to go to college?”Shifting your thinking on what you’ve been working on can really change the way you have been can start to narrow down your list. The best way to learn about a college is to visit or tour that college you’re thinking about. It helps you find your way around and meet new people.

“I don’t have a particular list of colleges

.

I wish to attend because I mainly only have one, Iowa State University. I never had a set university, that was until I joined Science Bound. Science Bound is a program that is set by Iowa State to help minoritized student get into colleges and into a stem field, Iowa State is the one they sponsor for. I joined back on middle school, since then, that has been the only college on my mind,” junior Marisol Argueta Hernandez said.

Letters of recommendation: A letter of recommendation is a personalized letter from one of your current or former school staff, like teachers, counselors, or even a coworker. A good letter of recommendation makes a strong case for why you’d be an outstanding candidate for a college you’re applying for. Letters of recommendation from teachers, school counselors, and different sources can help college admissions officers get more of a complete picture of you. Letters of recommendations are just one of the few ways to learn more about students beyond their grades and test scores.

“A good letter of recommendation can help a student who is on a college’s watch list make it in. letters of recommendation are more helpful with honor’s programs with private college acceptance programs,” teacher Virginia Johnson said.

Having a plan for after high school is always a good idea. When you’re in high school you have lots of different advantages to help you with college, like teachers or other school staff to help you or even close friends to help you. So, use them to your advantage and help yourself have a better chance of getting into the college you want.

Story/ N. Taylor Page editor/ N.Taylor

Graduates vs. drop outs

3.5 million

Students graduate from high school every year in the U.S.

VS.

1.2 million Students that drop out or don’t get their high school diploma every year https://www.dosomething.org

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The

LONG

Long time teacher and coach Page editor/ J.Martinez-Aviles Photography provided by Long Family Story/ J.Martinez-Aviles

As he nears his final days at the school he has taught at for 30 years, he prepares to say goodbye to the students he has taught and the athletes he has coached. His name is Lowell Long. Teaching requires many skills and tactics to deal with the responsibility of educating a generation of future leaders. Many give up in the process, but Long decided to pursue his teaching career whilst directing many sports and activities such as being Science Bound Advisor, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Advisor, Head Girls Golf Coach, and Assistant Activities Director. Throughout Long’s teaching career at East High, he has taught biology, zoology, earth science, general science, anatomy, physiology, botany, and forensic science. However, all good things must come to an end; Long will be retiring after the 2020-2021 school year.

Long’s legacy will make an impact on East High School for years to come. When Long is asked what his most memorable moment in all his years at East has been, he lists the highlights.

“When my kids graduated, that was very special. The senior nights with my kids. And when they called me and told me that I was being put in the East Alumni Hall of Fame,” Long said.

Long has always had his East side pride, so there was never a doubt in his mind as to where his children would be attending for their education.

“My wife is a Roosevelt grad, but when it came right to it, we wanted our kids to go to East, so

Lowell Long says goodbye to East

both of my children went to East,” Long said.

Long’s son, Brandon Long graduated with class of 2012. He had many letters for basketball, football and track. 27-year-old Brandon Long is now an IT staffer for Insight Global. Brandon Long shares his view on his father’s educational career.

“I actually grew up going to East High school ever since I was a little kid. My dad would take me to East and we would go to his classroom... It was something that was just extremely important to him,” Brandon Long said.

Brandon Long is now able to recognize the true potential that his father’s East-side pride had on his life.

“He was always Mr. East High, so I just always wanted to be as imbedded to that community as I possibly could... He did a good job of bestowing that in me,” Brandon Long said.

Just as every good father does with their children, Long made sure to prepare his son and daughter for a fun, adventurous high school journey.

“It wasn’t as scary starting in high school because my dad was always there... That was always something special and unique... He was able to paint the pathway for my sister and I to have a good opportunity at East,” Brandon Long said.

Even though Long will soon leave East High, his children will always hold the loud and proud Lowell Long in their hearts.

“He is an unsung hero. He is always there. He is always willing to help out and do anything he can for the community and the East High student body.

He definitely believes in red and black,” Brandon Long said.

Brandon Long explains his hopes for the future student body at East High regardless of Long’s farewell to the East High community.

“I know he is retiring, but there is

“It doesn’t matter what color we are or what ethnicity we are.

We are East Siders.”

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going to be a part of him that is always going to live at East, and he takes so much pride in that. I hope the kids and high schoolers and the next generations to come take pride in East high school,” Brandon Long said.

If you are a student at East High and have had Mr. Long as a teacher, you would know that he speaks very highly of his daughter, which is well deserved. Maggie Long, whose new last name is Wieser, was the Valedictorian of East High Class of 2014. Her legacy also includes highlights such as being involved in softball, volleyball, track, and golf whilst getting many letters. 25-year-old Weiser is now in medical school at the University of Missouri. Weiser’s experience at East High is connected to the legacy her father was already leaving at the school.

“I grew up in Des Moines, and my dad was always a teacher at East High. Some of my first memories as a child were at East High in my dad’s biology class. My mom would always bring my brother and I to see dad at school,” Wieser said.

Wieser shares her earliest memories of her father’s teaching career and her own encounters with East High school.

“I remember we would talk to the class... I would tell his class poems and other random things... Those were some of my first memories of East... I think it was the most fun thing as a child,” Wieser said.

Growing up in a world where East side pride is strong, especially with your father, teacher, and coach at your side is very impactful, according to Wieser.

“I grew up loving East High.

Having my dad be a teacher, it’s just kind of in your blood at that point... The school fight

song was the first song that I learned as a child because that is what my dad sang to us... It was really fun going to East and playing sports there,” Wieser said.

Long’s East-side passion is explained by Wieser.

“A big part of East was part of the family. My dad and all of his siblings grew up and went to East and were all very proud of that. They love the East side of Des Moines, which I think is a big reason why he also then wanted to end u teaching at East and being a coach at East. He has fond memories and really values the school,” Wieser said.

When asked about her father’s characteristics and personality, Wieser does not fail in mentioning the amazing individual that Long is and continues to be.

“My dad is a very charismatic, funny, talkative and caring individual. I think he’s definitely a person who will go out of his way for anyone, whether it is someone he has known for a day or for someone he has known for his entire life, and I think that is one thing that makes him very special; that makes him great teacher and makes him a great coach. He cares about individuals and will always put that on display and make people feel special,” Wieser said.

Wieser closes with a special remark as to what Long offered to East High, which is what made his journey at East exemplary.

“He definitely has a passion for teaching and coaching. He just always wants to make sure that he is doing everything he can for his students and players on his team,” Wieser said.

Just like Wieser years ago, many athletes today that Long has coached throughout the years also feel the need to recognize Long’s efforts and impact on their lives. Senior Baylee Brafford speaks on her relationship with Long.

“Long and I have a good friendship with each other. You can always rely on him to hype you up if you’re one of his golfers. Long is a very goofy, good, spirited person who is always making jokes,” Brafford said.

Long has always been known for his passion in teaching and coaching, especially by those close to him. Brafford, like many others, acknowledge and admire the hard work that Long has dedicated into his career.

“I am very happy and excited for long to retire, he deserves it. Senior golfers told Long about two

years ago that he could not retire until we graduate.

He told us he would not, and he stuck to his word.

I hope Long gets better at golfing in his retired years. He needs a little more work,” Brafford said.

Despite Long’s teaching journey at East coming to an end, he knows that he has been able to understand many things throughout the process.

“One thing I’ve learned is that kids are kids; people are people... It doesn’t matter what color we are or what ethnicity we are. We are East Siders,” Long said.

Long has been at East long enough to know that times change, but the home of East side remains the same.

“I have learned a lot from the kids... It’s a whole different dynamic then when I started here 30 years ago, or even when I went to school here 45 to 46 years ago. But be proud of where you came from.

My kids went to East, I went to East, my brothers and sisters went to East, my nieces and nephews came to East. I want to be proud of East,” Long said.

One thing that Long is well aware of is the negative stereotype and public perception that DSM locals have about East High school and the East side in general.

However, he knows not to back down when it comes to defending his own.

“We get ‘Hey, you go to East? Isn’t that a rough school?’ And I’m like ‘No, It’s not a rough school.

We have good teachers; we have good kids.’ It’s just silly that we judge things that way,” Long said.

Regardless of his departure, Long aspires to seek openings in the door of success and wellbeing. He is currently applying to different jobs, as he is not yet sure where he will go next.

“I am going to work for another year... I hope for new opportunities,” Long said.

As Long awaits the school year to end, he contemplates on the future of his classroom on the third-floor science wing.

“Just don’t mess up my room when I leave. I want to come back and have my classroom be just like it is,” Long said humorously.

Just as East High has made an impact in the Long family, it can be said that the Long family has also had an impact on East High staff, athletes and students. Where one road ends, there is a new path that is born which leads to the next destination.

“He was always Mr. East High...

He did a good job of bestowing that in me.”

sang to us... It was really fun going to East and playing sports there,” Wieser said.

Long’s East-side passion is explained by Wieser.

“A big part of East was part of the family. My dad and all of his siblings grew up and went to East and were all very proud of that. They love the East side of Des Moines, which I think is a Long’s 2nd big reason why he also then wanted to end grade school u teaching at East and photo 1964-65 being a coach at East. school year He has fond memories and

The

LONG Timeline

1971-1972 : Long’s freshman year

1972-1973 : Long’s sophomore year 1973-1974 : Long’s junior year 1974-1975 : Long’s senior year

- Taught technology for 9 years after college

- Became a salesman; went well but he didn’t love it - Got a call to teach bio and got certified to teach all sciences

- Started at East High in the 1991-1992 school year and has been at East High since.

Long carries his children, Brandon and Maggie at East High school really values the school,” Wieser said.

Long in his classroom with Maggie When asked about her father’s

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The future of music education at East High School story/R. Hayworth page editor/R. Hayworth photo/R. Hayworth

Rehearsals. Sheet music. White tops teach band and orchestra at Hiatt Middle and black bottoms. Warm ups. Setting the School. stage. The quiet anticipation among student “Eight years. As much as we’ve had musicians before a concert. As some great musical moments, the 2020-2021 school year there is a trend, and I like wraps up, band director watching people change Mr. Thering and choir and develop. I have I have had this director Ms. Squires had this amazing will take their final privilege in playing amazing privilege bow as music some kind of a in playing some kind educators at East role in everyHigh School. body’s opportuof a role in everybody’s “I think in nities to change opportunities many ways my and develop. My thoughts are proudest thing is to change and develop. similar to what the watching people seniors are thinking come in confused JOSEPH THERING which is ‘I didn’t about identity, know that this part of confused about values, my life or career would shift into people who are end the way that I did,’” band certain about who they are director Joseph Thering said. and what they want to be,” Thering The 2020-2021 school year brought a said. lot of changes, and it will end with more Students love Thering for his kind perchanges to come. Thering has taught at East sonality and willingness to listen. for the last eight years. Next year he will “Thank you Thering for everything,

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for being there for me through the year, and changing my perspective of band to something positive instead of negative. You changed how I feel about playing music again. You have made my high school experience so much fun and exciting, you will be missed,” junior band student Sierra Pilate said.

Thering’s advice for future band students: be willing to change.

“Darwin is quoted as saying ‘the survival of the fittest’ in some fashion or another and we always think of that as the strongest or the fastest or the most athletic or the most dominant, but the fittest means most appropriate, and the most appropriate for survival’s sake is adaptation. I think we’ve all learned that the speed of adaptation is the new adaptation, it’s not whether of not you can adapt, it’s how fast you can adapt and the faster you can do it the more likely you are to survive, so I just encourage everyone to be prepared to change and be prepared to do it fast,” Thering said.

Change can be scary, but it is what’s in store for both teacher and student. Ther-

ing will continue to be involved in educaknow how they could even do band and tion, either as a music teacher or in leaderchoir together, it’s so much. Solo contests ship. As for music at East High School, when you have both [band and choir], large band and choir will be facing a big change: group contest when you have both, and two sharing a director. booster groups, I mean, I don’t “I’m not really happy think anyone thinks about about it, but it’s someone that,” choir director new which means we Traci Squires said. can grow from it. I’m From early excited but nervous. morning marching With the time beband rehearsal to We’re a giant family ing split between long after-school and we’re always gonna band and choir, musical practices we’re gonna have and Saturdays be here for each other to find time to do booked with stuff for band and contests, either SIERRA PILATE avoid piling on,” jazz band or Pilate said. show choir, it is Finding the balclear that music eduance between band and cation is not contained choir seems like a dauntwithin the school day. ing task, and it won’t happen Finding the balance is key. without sacrifices. Show choir, hand After 17 years at East High bells, and jazz band are all expected not to School, Squires is retiring. She is sad to be happen for the 2021-2022 school year. leaving but is looking forward to spending “I don’t know how they can do it. I don’t more time with her grandsons. She also

“ ”

plans to be a substitute.

“I will miss fall musicals. I’ll miss working with Mr. Thering, Mrs. Luft, and Mr. Allan,” Squires said.

Through all of her years of teaching, RENT was her favorite musical produced; she loves the music and the message. Her favorite memories include fall musicals and group trips. Her daughter also attended East and was involved in choir and theatre.

“I think about all the trips we went to, New York, Washington DC, Orlando like three times, those were great memories,” Squires said.

Squires’ advice for future choir kids is to cherish your time in choir.

“Stay enthused. Remember this is your at-school family, your safe place. Make the most out of your time here,” Squires said.

The future of music education at East is unpredictable, but for all band and choir students past present and future, know that change is healthy and necessary.

“We’re a giant family and we’re always gonna be here for each other, even with a new director,” Pilate said.

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Accepting Nothing Less Than Success Get to know the Class of 2021 Science Bound Seuiors

page editor/E.Guerra photos/N. Dorr

story/E.Guerra

Science Bound is a scholarship program for students of color under Iowa State University. Des Moines Public Schools is one of the school districts who are part of this scholarship program. Science Bound prepares students for college with many different activities. Let’s get to know East High School’s Senior Science Bound Scholars.

Tayjah Butts is a success bound woman of color. Butts is involved in volleyball, golf, Science Bound, Upward Bound, student government, National Honor Society, and Gifted and Talented. Butts plans to attend the University of Iowa and major in political science on the prelaw track.

“My experiences at East involved attending a lot of the after-school activities involving football, basketball, baseball games, track meets, and assemblies to make sure I am there to support East in every way I can. Also, my experiences in Science Bound involve attending the meetings and doing assignments to better prepare me and give me an idea of what I would like and wouldn’t like in the future,” Butts said.

Iver Cruz-Gregorio is 17 years old and was originally born in Rochester Minnesota. One of Cruz-Gregorio’s hobbies is that he loves to cook during his free time. Cruz-Gregorio is the president of the chess club and is in Science Bound. Cruz-Gregorio’s plan after high school is to go to Iowa State University for his bachelor’s degree and then go to Des Moines University for medical school.

“Experiences I have received in the Science Bound program were college preparation, preparation of classes for the upcoming school year in the summer, career explorations and having many options to choose from, hands on experiences in the field I am interested in such as

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having been in labs at Iowa State University, having built a relationship with a group of people and having a great collaboration,” Cruz-Gregorio said.

Aaliyah Freeman is 18 years old, and she likes to work and spend time with friends. Freeman is involved in yearbook, cheerleading, and Science Bound here at East. Freeman is planning to go to Iowa State University under the Pre-Med track.

“My experiences at East have been great and fun. I made lots of friends and got to try new things that is didn’t think I would end up liking.

I have been in Science Bound since 7th grade and the experiences have been fun. I got to go to Iowa State University for Science Bound Saturdays, and I got to explore more career options by doing those. Doing oral justifications helped so much because I am no longer nervous to talk to others or give nterviews,” Freeman said.

Miguel Garcia-Palacios is the middle child from his family. Garcia-Palacios is involved in Scarlet Squad and Science Bound. GarciaPalacios plans to become an auto collision tech expert.

“At East I experienced many things like a lot of people here are friendly and my experiences in science bound is that it’s a good program to be in to explore ASTEM fields and to discover which one is for you,” Garcia-Palacios said.

Denzel Gomez is a relaxed and thoughtful person. Gomez has been involved in Science Bound, Upward Bound, and soccer at East and outside of East. Gomez plans include on going to a 4-year university where he’ll find his career.

“My experiences at East have been good.

It’s easy to find where you belong which is what makes East a great school. The students and teachers get along well, and it makes for a good environment. Also, in Science Bound it’s almost

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like the community found at East. Everyone gets along and although it’s academic based it doesn’t feel like that. Science Bound also encourages us to get involved how we can, with school or our community,” Gomez said.

Ena Marie Guerra Caballero is the oldest child out of four children, Guerra Caballero is a first-generation Salvadoran American that will attend college. Guerra Caballero has been involved in National Honor Society, East Ambassadors, Scarlet Squad, Upward Bound, Science Bound, and Student Government as Class Vice President. Guerra Caballero Plans on attending Mercy College of Health Sciences and majoring in Nursing.

“My experiences at East have been great.

I really love the diverse community we have here and the effort we get from the staff and teachers,” Guerra Caballero said.

Guerra Caballero favorite thing at East was helping as much as she could, especially with events such as prom, senior breakfast, and graduation.

“My experiences with Science Bound have been great also, I would say that the community of Science Bound is my favorite because we are all like a family. I grew with the rest of the Science Bound seniors and I absolutely love and support them so much. I enjoyed my years in the program, and I definitely will miss it,” Guerra Caballero said.

Aeelyn Magallanes-Tristian is 18 years old; she is the first-generation Mexican American that will graduate in her family. She is proud of her Mexican roots and culture.

Magallanes-Tristian is involved in Upward Bound, Student Government, Al Exito, Scarlet Squad, Tech Journey, Soccer, Academic Decathlon, Barbell Club, and PAPAYA.

Magallanes-Tristian plans to attend to Iowa State University in the fall and major in Architecture. Magallanes-Tristian also plans to minor in art and Latinx studies.

“I have had the amazing opportunity of meeting new and diverse people at East while seeing them grow and learn. I got to experience sports games, dances, pep rallies, spirit weeks, and it has been such a fun 4 years. Also, In Science Bound I got to experience science bound Saturdays which have helped me in so many ways, but I got to learn more about the campus and met so many new people from different schools. I also enjoyed meetings on Thursdays because I got to be within the Science Bound community and got to learn new things about everyone,” Magallanes-Tristian said.

Alexandra Momaney is a determined person; she likes to succeed and when she is faced with failure, she motivates herself to always try again to reach her goals. Momaney has been involved in Science Bound, Cheerleading, and Dance.

Momaney plans to attend Iowa State University and get her undergraduate degree in biology or genetics. She then plans to go to law school.

Even though Momaney is rethinking where and what she wants to do for her undergraduate degree, her end goal is to go to law school.

“I came to east the middle of my sophomore year, since then I have not had any negative feelings towards East. I like how big and diverse the school is. If you stay out of drama, it is a good community despite all the negative stigma around it. Publicity often makes it seem ‘ghetto’ or hostile but in reality, it’s not different from any school I’ve gone to,” Momaney said.

Andy Montalvo-Martinez is a first-generation Chicano and has attended Des Moines Public School his entire life. He is involved in Student Government, Des Moines Public Schools equity and racial justice team, and Science Bound. Montalvo-Martinez plans on attending Iowa State University and major in Biochemistry and minor in Latinx studies and Spanish.

“My favorite experiences at East have been becoming class president and working to end the school to prison pipeline by removing SROs. My favorite experiences in Science Bound have been being able to mentor younger students, being able to explore my career interests and having a support system,” MontalvoMartinez said.

Abdirizak Noor favorite sports are basket-

ball and football. Noor is involved in Upward Bound and Science Bound. Noor plans to attend Iowa State University for four years.

“I would say that my experience at east high school has been decent the 4 years I’ve been here and my experience in Science Bound has been great. I’ve enjoyed the ISU trips that we took on Saturdays and other activities like Shadow Day,” Noor said.

Christopher Orantes-Rivera is a student who believes that anything can happen if you put your mind to it that’s why he put his best effort to everything. He also likes sports, working out, school, and enjoy life without regrets. OrantesRivera plans to go into the automotive industry.

He will be attending Des Moines Area Community College and Iowa State University and when he graduates, he plans on opening his own shop to work on cars.

“My experience at East has been great I’ve met so many amazing teachers that became my friends and they help me push myself to become a better person I could honestly say that being at East is the best thing that happened, hanging out with friends in class and sport and just chilling with the teachers best experience I’ve had and with Science Bound it gave me such an amazing experience meeting people all around different school districts making friends with them and also learning new things I never thought I would learn, I could say I’ve had a great experience with it,” Orantes-Rivera said.

Oscar Saldana Hernandez is an outgoing person; he tends to see things through when he is determined. He is also someone who you can count on no matter what lies in between. Saldana Hernandez is involved in soccer, Science Bound, and a local church group. Saldana plans to attend Iowa State University and major in mechanical engineering or any engineering major.

“My experiences at East have always been fun or some sort of learning experience. I could always laugh with my classmates and teachers.

As well as a teacher I can count on like Ms. MacDonald or Ms. Fitz,” Saldana Hernandez said.

“Science Bound has been a learning experience from the beginning. As there has been something new to learn every day. We can grow as a community and learn to help each other out. SB Saturday’s were the most beneficial as we would learn new things every time and meet new people. We would never come back empty headed,” Saldana Hernandez said.

Oscar Silva is a determine hard working

person who is very passionate about their goals and aspersions in the future. Silva is involved in National Honor Society, soccer, and East Ambassadors. Silva plans on attending Grandview University and major in Athletic Training and continuing playing soccer.

“My experience at East has been a mellow one, I’ve met many people who have come and gone that have helped me become who I am.

I’ve been in Science Bound since seventh grade; the program is a great way for many minorities to get the opportunity to go to college at Iowa State University. But as I went through the final years of the program I felt as if it wasn’t for me anymore,” Silva said.

Ding Tut is an outgoing, joyful, and determined person to become successful. Some activities Tut have been involved in would be Gifted and Talented, Educational Talent Search, Basketball, B2B (an African American Leadership group), and Science Bound. Tut plan to become a mechanical engineering or an aerospace engineer. Tut also explains if that doesn’t work out, he plans to become a psychologist.

“As for Science Bound, I’ve had very interesting experiences with careers and overall, what college is going to be like. It’s made me prepared and have a great perception on how I’m going to shape my future. Although it might have been a struggle at sometimes Science Bound has been enjoyable and it was great to learn a lot of new things within my education,” Tut said.

Before graduating the Science Bound teachers wanted to give off advice to the Science Bound seniors.

“Don’t procrastinate and always show up. Do what you say you will do and be the best you can be. Enjoy your life and make sure you don’t work your life away. Slow down and enjoy the beauty.

Be compassionate and empathetic and help those around you. Lift others up. Don’t settle!” science teacher Nikki Dorr said.

Another message for the Science Bound seniors, “My message or advice to the Science Bound Seniors is that I hope you always know and believe in yourselves at least half as much as I do. You are such an amazing group of scholars, and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to be a part of your journey. Thank You,” social studies teacher Randi Fitzgerald said.

Congratulations to the Science Bound class of 2021.

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The 2021 East NHS Officers Volume 90

Story/C. Mendoza-Medrano

Treasurer Marissa Thomspon

N

WHAT IS NHS?

ational Honor Society (NHS) recognizes hard-working student at East High School who have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Students must have a certain number of community service hours each semester and being a member builds leadership throughout the High School years. There are four powerful women in the East High School building who are currently National Honor Society (NHS) officers. Come take a peek and see who these leaders are.

Secretary Natalie Royce Photo/ contributed Marissa is a senior who plays tennis, cross country, track, school clubs, and more at Central Campus. As the current Treasurer, she is in charge of the money they receive. But because COVID-19 has taken away several opportunities, she has been helping planning things with the other NHS officers. Thomspon enjoys planning and helping other officers with any of the things they want to accomplish.

“My advice for the people in NHS would be to make the most out of your time there. NHS has tons of opportunities that can help you and your community to become better,” senior Marissa Thomspon said.

Ryleigh is involved in newspaper, band, IHSSA, theatre, and NHS. When she is not at school, she is working at a daycare center nearby and loves spending time with the kids.

As vice-president, she does a lot of talking at the meetings, as well as organizing volunteer opportunities.

“For future NHS members get involved. Sign up for the opportunities NHS gives to you.

With a fun group of people, volunteering becomes a social event as well as helping the community,” senior Ryleigh Hayworth said.

Friday, May 21, 2021

Natalie plays tennis and was in theater as well as show choir before COVID-19 and the remodeling on the auditorium came along in the past year. She is the President of the Des Moines FFA where she shows pigs. Last year Royce was accepted to the National Council Youth Leadership where her opportunities have spread to be a NHS officer.

Her role as a secretary includes helping with planning and idea creation. She enjoys being secretary not only to help the officers byt having a say to improve the community.

“My advice to future and present NHS members is that the little things you do for our community matters,” senior Natalie Royce said.

Photo/ contributed

Vice-President Ryleigh Hayworth

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Photo/ N. Rai Kylea is involved in theatre, IHSSA, newspaper, ambassadors, and Scarlet Squad.

She loves performing arts and being involved.

She tends to take her leadership opportunities in most activities and keeps a full schedule. As the President, her role is to facilitate meetings and work with the Vice-President to create do service activities for the NHS group. She also keeps charge of making sure information makes it to everyone who is in NHS. “I always enjoy having a new leadership position. My advice would be to never underestimate yourself. When I first joined NHS I never thought that I would be president. But I am glad I ran and unexpectedly won. It goes to show you can do anything you put your mind to,” senior Kylea Tackett said.

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

Photo/ J. Hayworth

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President Kylea Tackett

Photo/contributed

Natalie will be attending DMACC in the fall to earn her liberal arts degree and then transferring to Iowa State to major in Animal Science then plan to apply for vet school.

Ryleigh will attend Grinnell College and study political science or psychology. She is thinking about Law after high school.

Kylea is going to the University of Northern Iowa to major in elementary education.

Marissa will be going to Iowa State and major in mechanical engineering or environmental engineering.

East throughout the decades Take a trip to the past through the East High yearbook pictures

East High School was founded in 1861. Throughout the years, many students have come and gone, eventually leaving and pursuing careers in different fields. A look through the East High yearbooks can reveal the differences of East High from back then until now. Ever wondered what East looked like 30, 50 or even 60 years ago? Take a look through the ‘91, ‘72, and ‘64 yearbooks.

Couple Mike Ramsey and Kay Parks walking down the halls of East ‘91.

Students Bobby Anderson, Jay Elliott, T. J. Mobeerg, and Casey Johnson at a school event ‘91.

Photo/contributed

Photot/contributed

Junior Mike Thompson riding his bike to school ‘72.

Photo/contributed

Orrie Johnson and Marv Williams getting ready to perform “Chain Gang” at a senior party ‘64.

Photo/contributed Page editor/ C. Hernandez

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The

Ups and downs of senior year The four years of high school can be the fastest four years in a person’s life. There are so many great times in high school, but there are also the times people complain about when they think of high school. The 12 years of going to school with the same people and in the same town, it’s time for a change. When graduation rolls around, students can experience something new and different then walking down the halls of East High School. Here are some of the ups and downs from the class of 2021.

Page editor/ N.Taylor story/N.Taylor

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Ups

Downs

Senior skip day

Tayjah Butts

Not getting football games

One last spirt week

Alaina Stemsrud

Not having motivation

Swim career

Cody Vansylalom

At home all the time

Third term, being in-person

Jade Nguyen

Mentally lowest point

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Opinion: Let’s paint some parking spots Personalized parking would boost school spirit Imagine if students were given assigned parking spots to paint their own designs how they would like to. Imagine coming to school and seeing creativity from students at East High School outside and inside the building. Imagine all of the colorful parking spots that would show each students personality, hobbies, or what they love, like sports and extracur-

ricular activities. Each student could have their own space and be able to create something that inspires them while having fun with one another.

“It would be nice and cool to see other students’ artwork and creativity everywhere. It’d be fun for everyone that participates in painting their own parking spot or if they’re just helping, I think it would still be fun,” junior Marcelo Acosta said.

Painting parking spots would bring people together, helps show school spirit and allow students to express themselves in an artistic way. It gives students opportunities to meet new people and interact with other students who they may not know.

“Students who don’t really talk during school, it would be easier for them to talk to the person next to them because they’re doing something they like and that is fun. It would be a good way to help students feel more like this school is their space,” art teacher, Ryan Koning said.

Not only would East High students want to do this, but other schools in the DMPS district want to and would also benefit from giving students the opportunity to be able to paint their own parking spots. Sophomore, Mary Arthur, from Lincoln High School has also thought about painting parking spots and thinks everyone would benefit from it.

“It would bring more color to the school environment. It encourages students to show their creativity and gives them another option to participate in school activities,” Arthur said.

The big question is how the supplies would be provided? How would schools get the money for paint, tape, paintbrushes, and possibly spray paint for students?

“Students who are interested in doing this could start fundraisers to get money or ask family and friends to donate. If they’re not sure and need some inspiration of how they should fundraise money,

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just think about what other school activities have done,” Acosta said.

While thinking of all the pros in letting students paint parking spots, there are issues that schools and students would face while trying to do this. Many things can make it difficult for everyone who would participate in doing this activity.

“Figuring out who gets what parking spot would be an issue because obviously there is not enough parking for every single student and some spots are better than others,” Ms. Koning said.

Considering the type of materials used to paint parking spots on school property, this could cause certain things like vandalism and inappropriate paintings to happen.

“They may have a few issues with keeping it appropriate and vandalism but with a guide of what you can and can’t do I think it would still be okay,” Arthur said.

Since the school has limited parking and not every student would be able to paint a parking spot the schools admin would have to find a positive and productive way to choose who would be able to participate in this activity.

We need to figure out which students would get a parking spot and how many students would be able to participate. Students could help with fundraising and help one another decide what they should paint. This is something that could help with students motivation towards school and attendance because it could be something they would like to do, but they would have to do good in school and have decent attendance.

your own Create parking spot What would your parking spot look like?

“The parking spots should be assigned to students who have a car and have bought a parking ticket,” Acosta said.

Some people think it should be based on who has a car, however others think it should be more based on things that are more based on students in school. It could be based off of attendance, grades, their behavior towards school, if they do any other school activities etc.

“I think it should be based on attendance on who comes because attendance is a big problem at East. It could motivate more people to come to school and it should be people who have cars, but students who want to be apart of it who do not have cars could help,” Ms. Koning.

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Story/A.Bloomer Page editor/A.Bloomer Photos/A.Bloomer

Understanding your relationship with food, and how to better it

If you have been struggling to manage your eating habits and maintain a healthy realtionship with food, do not worry.

Many people, young and old, expierence these same struggles. This article will prove that it can, in fact, get better.

According to a survey at East High School, eight out of 20 students have said they have struggled with body image. Six of the 20 said they have thought they have had an eating disorder. These students were between the ages of 14 and 15. They are developing teens with devloping bodies.

50 percent of the students said they have skipped a meal or meals on purpose. Food is not something to be scared of. Food is something to nourish our bodies with. Food is fuel for our bodies, and not fueling our bodies, especially when they are still growing and devloping, can be detrimental to our health. Teens today may struggle with body image because of the beauty standards today. Having to look a certain way to be considered attractive can be damaging for teens and adolescents. Food categorized into good and bad can also be damaging for mental health.

All foods can fit into ones diet. Just because something has less nutritional value than something else does not mean you shouldn’t eat it.

If you want it or crave it, then go for it.

It is absolutley okay to honor your cravings.

It is absolutley okay to eat over the serving size. Do not let anyone or anything tell you that it is not. Some adults struggle with eating habits without even realizing it. The popular “keto diet” cuts out all carbs and sugars, including fruits. Some adults are tricked by diet culture into believing that eating fried cheese is better for the human body than fresh fruits. The keto diet was made for epileptic children. Not able bodied adults who need carbs for brain and body function. Our bodies need carbs, calories, fats, vitamins.

Some extremely nourishing foods include things like avocados, bananas, chicken, steak, a wide variety of cheeses, rice, and other grains. Fueling our bodies is all about balance. You can absolutley have vegetables with a rich source of protein like eggs or chicken, but you can also have the Chic-filA you’ve been craving for a few weeks.

Everything is okay in balance and moderation. It is important to realize this, as this betters our relationship with food.

It is okay to eat bread. It is okay to eat greasy foods sometimes. The piece of chocolate you crave, honor that craving! It is so much better for our brains to honor something we want rather than to ristrict and binge later. Recovering and training your mind to think positivley around food can be very difficult, but it is accomplishable.

Having a good relationship with food will help you stay happy and healthy. Just because it may be hard does not mean it is impossible.

LOOKING TO RECOVER? CALL: (888)-375-7767 TEXT: 494949 If you are someone you know is in immidiate need of help, please call 911 or an emergency hotline number.

FEBURARY: Eating Disorder Awareness Month WAYS TO HELP: -Educate yourself or others about the varities of different eating disorders -Avoid commenting on apperance -Spread body positivity -Sponsor advocacy programs

Story Credits/ K. Shannon Illustrations/ K. Shannon Photo/ Kylea T.

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“Bring back manly men”

Toxic masculinity in the media

On January 1, social media was shocked as Vogue Magazine released a new issue featuring singer, Harry Styles on the cover. This has made Styles the first solo male on the cover of Vogue, but has also caused controversy as he wore a long sky blue dress instead of traditional ‘male’ clothing.

It’s important to understand that Styles is not the first celebrity to break traditional gender stereotypes, and he definitely won’t be the last. Other examples of celebrities that have worn similar things are Ross Lynch, Timothee Chalamet, Prince, and Freddie Mercury.

“There’s so much joy to be had in playing with clothes. I’ve never thought too much about what it means--it just becomes this extended part of creating something,” Styles said on Vogue.com

Traditionally, and especially in the media, men are portrayed as tough, cold, and “manly”. It is important as a society that we redefine what it means to be “manly”.

Styles does just that. He combats the stereotype that men cannot express any other emotion than anger, as his brand is “Treat People With Kindness” and he is constantly showing it is okay for men to show love.

“I think there’s so much masculinity in being vulnerable and allowing yourself to be feminine, and I’m very comfortable with that,” Styles said on Vogue.co.uk

There is also a very clear stereotype in the media that feminine men must identify as gay. Styles has never felt a need to clarify his sexuality to anyone, as he believes it is no one’s business but his own.

“I don’t feel like it’s something I’ve ever felt like I have to explain about myself. It’s weird for me -- everyone should just be who they want to be,” Styles said in his Vogue interview.

Many can say they see a future where clothing has no gender. Even now, many clothing brands are coming up with gender-neutral lines. Pacsun is an example of this.

“Clothes are there to have fun with and experiment with and play with. What’s really exciting is that all of these lines are just kind of crumbling away. It’s like anything -- anytime you’re putting barriers up in your own life, you’re just limiting yourself,” Styles said on Vogue.

Styles’ Vogue cover caught much traction on Twitter, when political commentator, Candace Owens

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“

It just becomes this extended part of creating something,

voiced her opinion on his stylish photoshoot.

“There is no society that can survive without strong men. The East knows this. In the west, the steady feminization of our men at the same time that Marxism is being taught to our children is not a coincidence. It is an outright attack. Bring back manly men,” Owens said on Twitter.

Styles was unbothered by Owen’s comments on his choices, though. He took to Instagram, posting a picture of him wearing a feminine outfit eating a banana, with the caption, “Bring back manly men.” This is a clear representation of taking back your power, something anyone on the internet can look up to.

A lesson that can be taken away from Styles is that there is nothing wrong with living your life unapologetically.

Be you to your truest form. Styles constantly pushes boundaries in every aspect of fashion and music, and still ends up being loved by millions. Everyone has the potential inside of them to be just as inspirational.

”

story/K.Tackett page editor/K.Tackett illustartions/K.Tackett

“

Anytime you’re putting up barriers in your own life, you’re just limiting yourself, -Harry Styles East High Scroll

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Story/ K. Moss Page Editor/ K. Moss Illustration/ K. Moss

All flowers take time to bloom

A writing to those who need a reminder that they will soon bloom, it just takes time. the waiting game, a slow course. no one has the desire to wait. q uestions flounder and drift until the answer weaves its way in. one lingering inquiry remained when the answer finally arrives and shows itself upon the bearer. why must the blooming and learning take this long? why must the agony and impatience drag on this long? lastly, why must I feel the burden of insecurities when I deny one’s challenge of awakening? flowers are naive, daring to bloom in a dark world where they can be taken advantage of. the beauty of the pastel petals shining from the beams of the blazing sun, offering pollen to those who seek its gift. flowers are naive, daring to bloom its dark colors in a world where there’s enough of that. d ark colors not offering to the sun, draining the rays from the pastels. daring to offer pollen to those who seek its gift. flowers are naive but still so eager to grow. the view amongst other wildlife and the beauty of the uniqueness following. the colors so enticing once the blooming performs. flowers offer pollen to those who seek even if they dare to bloom in a world where the doubt of their beauty is present. all flowers are beautiful, the blooming is what is slow. r oots are in the soft soil, it’s up the flower if they’re up for the task that it takes to be a bloomed flower. you, a flower that is still on its way to blooming, it’ll happen. once it does, you’ll be the most beautiful and tempting flower to those who seek its precious gift. the strength of a now bloomed flower, the generous care to have shown us all its true gift. self-acceptance. truly, blooming is a beautiful process to those who dare.

East High Scroll

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“Boys will be boys.”

The ones in the shadows: Sexual assault and harrasment in Iowa Page editor/ K.Moss Story/ K.Moss There is doubt and second-guessing. A story unfolds while thoughts course. “What if they don’t believe me, what if I’m being dramatic?” These are some of the worries sexual assault/harassment survivors experience.

Self-invalidation, and non-believers of their own story.

They are often ignored, now is the time for that change.

Sexual assault and harassment are a global phenom, we hear victims’ stories. But what happens when we finally look into our community and see what’s happening to them? We often overlook nor do we talk about it, at least not to those whom we have known our whole life or see in our day-to-day life. Believing that it doesn’t happen in front of us daily, even in our schools without the administration caring, is simply ignorant.

What is the difference between Sexual assault and Sexual Harassment?

Some say sexual harassment only occurs in a school setting or in a workspace, it can happen wherever you go. Every Friday when preteens are told today is smack butt Friday, unwanted attention, whether that’s verbal or non-physical. Being catcalled, someone odd taking a picture of you without consent, that is sexual harassment.

Sexual assault is touch, not verbal nor no contact is being made. You don’t consent to the touch, you say no .

“This makes me uncomfortable, some other time, stop,” all phrases have been said by victims of sexual assault.

Rape and sexual coercion all fall under sexual assault.

Who is affected?

On April 2, 2021, a survey went out onto Snapchat, asking those who took it if they’ve experienced sexual assault or harassment. Out of hundreds that may have seen it, 90 responses were recorded. The number seems small, but with a sensitive topic such as assault and harassment the number is encouraging. Sharing a traumatic experience is frightening, not having proper resources or support needed. The idea of someone listening is enough.

Out of all those responses recorded, 28 of them were from East High School. Excluding gender and age, 85.71 percent of students at East reported experiencing sexual assault and harassment. Whether that is within the barriers of our school or out, we should still feel concerned. “People are actually coming out and telling their stories therefore, people aren’t afraid because they know that other people out there have experienced something similar of what they experienced and they know people are out there, trying to help and find awareness for sexual assault/harassment,” East freshman Shirley Rivera-Pogyo said.

Normalization of harmful phrases At a young age, women are told to cover up and that “boys will be boys ”. They are told to dress modest, that the clothes they wear put them in danger. Schools dress codes inherently support this message, that if a girl shows her shoulder, they are somehow the distraction.

Not all men are violent, the schooling system is teaching us that. Sexualizing clothes such as tank tops, ruining the

enjoyment and confidence. What someone wears does not excuse the one doing the harm.

“We live in a culture that normalizes sexual violence, and I think these statements really speak to that mindset.

No matter what someone is wearing, no matter how someone was acting, no matter whether someone had anything to drink—the person to blame is the one who causes the harm to begin with. And we need to stop normalizing violence among boys and men. Phrases like ‘boys will be boys’ essentially excuses violent behavior as part of ‘being a man’ which just isn’t true. Instead, we need to be teaching all children at a very young age about respect, empathy, and bodily autonomy,” head of communications at IowaCASA (Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault), Matty Tate-Smith said.

Double standards and forgotten people in the media There’s a double standard when it comes sexual assault/harassment. Men’s stories are often left to the shadows. Sexual assault/harassment taught in schools is geared towards women’s safety. When males share their story, they’re told it’s different because they are a male, left feeling invalidated and ashamed. Questioning if their story is valid, no education on the topic about violence and what it could seem like. Because when you’re a young boy, it’s told that when you show emotion, you’re deemed weak and incompetent. That’s far from the case, emotional vulnerability is a sign of strength. Crying does not make a man fake; it makes a real one.

“I’m not sure if I have, as I have never been talked to about Male Harassment,” an anonymous East student said.

Within modern times, communities have expanded, and more people are finding themselves. More gender identities are welcomed into society. With that growth, the schooling system needs to as well as it has not been updated to modern times. No education system means no one growth on the topic, no awareness or learning being done. Ignorance is shown when one comes out about their new identity, whether that’s their sexuality or gender, that violence is often not talked about. That makes it scarier, how being themselves puts them as the target.

“I don’t necessarily feel safe because of my gender identity and I think that the media bringing attention to it in the state of the world right now would not be helpful it would only cause more attacks,” non-binary Lincoln student Grey Prine said.

How to reach out “Anyone who needs help can visit us at www.iowacasa. org or contact the Iowa Victim Service Call Center at 1-800-770-1650 or by texting “IOWAHELP” to 20121,” Tate-Smith said.

Even if it seems as though no one is listening, there is always someone there. Whether that is a friend, loved-one, professional, there is always help. There’s no shame in opening up, there’s strength and great courage.

“I’d like any enby that might see this to feel free to ask the publisher for my contact info in case you are not feeling safe or need somebody to talk to,” Prine said.

Your story is valid, and someone is always there, stay strong .

“You’re asking for it.”

If you or anyone you know needs help, visit www.iowacasa.org or contact the Iowa Victim Service Call Center at 1-800-770-1650 or by texting “IOWAHELP” to 20121

East High Scroll

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One last word

Seniors give underclassmen advice, and teachers give seniors one last piece of advice Page editior/ A.Miranda Excited, anxious, sad, fearful, happy, eager all of these emotions are going through seniors’ heads as graduation nears. Many seniors are going off to college and some still don’t know what to do after high school. Teachers give their last advice to seniors, and the seniors give one last piece of advice to underclassman as they say their farewells.

Seniors giving advice Juniors are applying for colleges and scholarships and underclassmen are starting to get the hang of school spirit and joining sports, the seniors this year has been through it all.

The stressful late-night studying, the Friday night lights, applying for scholarships and getting into the college they applied too. Before they say their one last goodbye, they have a few words before they go.

“For those who are applying for scholarships I would say to apply to every single one that you can, even if they are small ones.

Those small ones can eventually bunch up into a big amount,” senior Pamela Abreo said.

Applying for colleges can be stressful but applying for scholarships are even more stressful. All the seniors have gone through the stress and still going through it, but at the end the stressful nights are rewarding. Seniors are getting full rides and other seniors are getting scholarships that they applied for and getting into their dream college.

“Make sure to start your applications early and hype yourself up while you’re doing it.

Put all your achievements in your resume no matter how small. The smallest achievements can have the biggest impact,” senior Baylee Brafford said.

The four years of being a high school student may feel like it goes by slow while waiting until graduation. But once you’re a senior, it feels like it went by fast.

“One of my most memorable moments are the pep rallies, when everyone would get together to celebrate with school spirit! I advise you to take lots of pictures and videos with friends or teachers so you can have those memories forever with you. Enjoy your time

East High Scroll

Story/ A.Miranda here because it really does fly by and it never comes back and everyone will go their separate ways, so enjoy the presence of people,” senior Aeelyn Magallanes-Tristan said.

The seniors this year feel like the school year went by fast and it was gone in a blink of an eye, they missed many opportunities they regret, they wanted to be involved in East more and their communities.

“My advice for underclassmen would have to be just do your schoolwork from the start because it will save in you in the long run.

Also, friends come and go and there is nothing wrong with that it happens, and you will know who the real ones are. Don’t get stressed out over school drama either it’s not worth your time,” senior Jasmine Arroyo said.

Teachers giving advice Many seniors are going off to college but feel like they won’t belong at their college.

Most of the seniors don’t know what they want to be or do after high school. Our teachers are preparing the seniors for the future.

“Very few people feel like they don’t belong in college think of it like starting a new friendship- very rarely it will start off fabulous, you have to get to know one another, work through the kinks and create experiences to enjoy one another. Eventually, you will find your new normal in college life. Don’t give up on yourself because it’s a different experience,” East teacher Randi Fitzgerald said.

One of the greatest things about East High School is that it is a very diverse school, a wide range of different backgrounds graduate from East. You won’t see that at Iowa State or most colleges, but it is okay that it’ll be a different experience.

“Continue to learn about yourself and learn about others! Invest in yourself and build healthy habits and relationships that will last no matter what life has in store for you,” counselor Ryan Bracken said.

Don’t stop believing in yourself, because your teachers and counselors won’t stop. They have faith in you and want you to succeed even if you change your major or take some

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Illustration/ A.Miranda time figuring yourself out.

“I’m so excited to see what this year’s senior class does. You have some amazing talent and are amazing people. I’m so proud of you for sticking with it,” Fitzgerald said.

Seniors, you’ve been through it all with COVID-19, track being cancelled last year, half of our senior year being virtual and almost not having graduation. With everything the seniors have been through this year with a pandemic it shows that you’ve got this. One thing great about the seniors this year is we never gave up, we tried and tried.

One last advice is to try your hardest, it may not be a good outcome at first but if you tried, you can’t say you never tried your best.

“Try! You don’t have to have everything figured out before you act. You are a work in progress and failure is inevitable but it is a valuable learning opportunity. Just figure out what comes next and do your best. People often say to follow your dreams to be happy but I don’t buy that... Be vulnerable, be generous, be brave,” East teacher Shawna Green said.

Starting a new chapter

Photo/contributed

Three seniors shared their experiences about what they have learned throughout the last four years and what’ next after high school.

It’s time to open a new chapter, it’s time to let go of what has hurt you, it’s time to say goodbye.

Forgive and forget, realize what you had taken for granted, what you lost and what you gained.

Just go with the flow.

Morgan Demuth

When a senior leaves, they leave behind a lot of memories. If there was time a machine wouldn’t it be great just to see, how far you’ve come, those regret, laughter, tears, and pain were just temporary.

Seniors have encountered many obstacles during their final year as East High School students.

When Morgan Demuth is not at school, you can find her listening to music, reading a lot of books, and hanging out with her friends.

“I like reading because you’re able to put yourself in a different world and feel different emotions,” Demuth said.

Everyone has hobbies and interests to keep them motivated but when your loved ones start expecting more of you because you are a senior, it is important to react with understanding and handle it with maturity.

“My parents treat me differently this year then rest of the years and have been little bit harder on me,” Demuth said.

Story/ D. Adhikari Page editor/ D. Adhikari

Alexendra Monaney

Jasmine Arroyo

During COVID-19, life has not been easy for teenagers. Many seniors feel overwhelmed. Senior Alexandra Momaney who pushed herself to get out of her comfort zone, giving herself the opportunity to dig deeper by understanding through people experiences, including their perspectives on current things. She participated in a program at Iowa State where she had to stay in a college dorm. Which encouraged her to go out there and truly experience life.

“As a senior, I feel like this year has been weird, I feel like I haven’t got exactly a true experience. We didn’t get football games, didn’t get much of Scarlet pride, homecoming, but the only senior thing I am looking forward to is prom, graduation, and applying for colleges. I am excited to vote.

I am excited to get more freedom. I am excited to trying to figure out how to get an apartment, and I am excited to see what’s there to come even though it might not go smoothly,” Momaney said.

It is important to take elective courses in high school, so you know what your interests are. The best way to do this is to take as many courses as possible before going to college.

“The classes I had online were precalculus, entrepreneurship and marketing.

I wanted to take entrepreneurship and Marketing because I also wanted to go into business in college,” senior Jasmine Arroyo said.

When Arroyo was a freshman, she faced a situation where she had to stand up for herself rather than pretending like everything is fine because by this doing is allows others to take advantage of you.

“I am Latino, but I don’t speak Spanish so one time during my freshman year this kid told me to go back to my country, and I was like I have never even been there. And I was kind of yelling at him because I wasn’t not even sure if he was kidding or not, but he should still not have said that,” Arroyo said.

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east high seniors: most memorable moments The air is crisp, and the six feet apart chairs are filled with students. The date is May 29, 2021. The red caps are soaking up the sun, the gowns are flowing in the wind.

This is East High School graduation. If you’re graduating, this memory will stick with you for the rest of your life. Walking onto the stage, accepting your high school diploma from the East High administrators.

As graduating seniors accept their diplomas, they reflect on their favorite high school memories, ranging from spirit week, to prom, to football games. Here are some of the most memorable moments from high school according to seniors.

“My most memorable moment at EHS was the Haunted Tour we did my junior year [2019-20] to raise funds for the family of Dominic Reidburn. …It was funny seeing the reactions from the people that passed by, and it was for a good cause, as we lost a fellow Scarlet too soon,” Senior Dominick Claussen said.

The 2020-21 school year has been exceptionally hard due to COVID-19. Seniors have pushed through to the end and are almost done with their high school career.

While senior year may not have been ideal, they love to look back on previous years and reflect on the great moments that have came from East High School.

“East is unique because of its diversity and size, meaning we bring a lot of culture and openness. My freshman year, my classmate Casey D. dressed up as the snapchat hotdog!,” Senior Diana Nguyen said.

A lot of seniors experience “senioritis.”

Senioritis is the lack of motivation to get

East High Scroll

any school work done in the last weeks or months of school. Senioritis is very common among seniors across the nation.

Seniors got robbed of a regular senior year; no football games, no homecoming, and a very strange prom night. Since students have been quarantined in their homes since last March, a lot of students now experience social anxieties and prominent uneasiness. It took some students a few weeks to get back into the regularly scheduled routine.

“After not being in in-person school for so long, it made it hard for me to be social, especially those first few weeks,” Senior Kristiana Lilly said. “I also had a case of senioritis.”

As the world returns back to normal, and more and more students get their vaccines, East High School students and staff can finally see a light at the end of a long, long tunnel. Graduation parties are in the books, college acceptances are being chosen.

Money is being spent for prom outfits, caps and gowns, post-graduation outfits, college necessities, and all of the needed and wanted senior purchases.

“Mr. Rudisill and Mrs. Niemeyer impacted my high school experience so much!

They guided me and pushed me to do my best work and helped me find my inspiration to become a teacher and journalist.”

Senior Charity Bos said. Sadly, seniors will not to be able to use the new rennovation of East High’s auditorium.

Along with the seniors, biology teacher and golf coach Lowell Long is moving on and retiring at the end of this schoolyear.

“Villanueva is the best taco truck around.” Senior Diana Nguyen said.

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Eating and reviewing different taco trucks around East is apart of the high school expirence here at East.

There are many hidden gems around East, including resturants, sweet shops, gift stores, and much more.

Making memories you can fondly look back on after high school is so much fun.

Eating out with friends, competeing in sports, joining the arts.

Story/ K. Shannon Page Editor/ K. Shannon Illustrations/ K. Shannon Photo/ east.dmschools.org

A

M M E U R S dice game

re you tired of being home bored on a hot and sunny summer day? Want to try something new? Well, here are some fun summer activities from our seniors and teachers. As summer approaches and school is out, play this game to explore new things around Des Moines. All you need to play this game is a six-sided die, Siri, or Amazon Alexa to roll/choose a number 1-6. Start with the category of your choice and roll the dice. The number it lands on is the activity you do next to the number. You can do as many of the categories as you want but make it a challenge to complete them all.

Activities suggested by...

Food Places

Free things in Des Moines

Things that cost in Des Moines

Alicia Camarillo

Texas Road House

Walk around the Sculpture Park

Vist a local zoo or fish aquarium

Avatar

“Safaera” By Bad Bunny

Caitlyn McFadden

HuHot

Walk around the mall

See a movie at a theater or drive inn

Grey’s Anatomy

“New Rules”

by Dua Lipa

Kenna Ruffert

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Go Swimming

Going to the farmer’s market

Love and the Monster

“Shot Gun” by George Ezera

Mrs. Anderson

Captain Roy’s

Visit Union Park

Go to Adventureland

Dazed and Confused

“Margaritaville”

by Jimmy Buffet

Scoop the loop

Take a Road Trip

Pretty Woman

“Schools out”

by Alice Cooper

Bike riding

Roller Skating

Crazy Rich Asians

“Pporappippam”

by Sunmi

Mrs. Duncan

Cua Vang

Mexican Restraunt

Pho Real

Netflix Night

Summer Song

Page Editor/ I. Lopez

East High Scroll

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Senior’sPETS Story/ J. Hildebrand Page editor/ J. Hildebrand

Portia Star and Chu Chu is a Staffordshire bull terrier.

“I like to go on really long walks with my dog. she helps me go on long runs when I don’t feel like running.

I love teaching her new tricks because she learns really fast” Photo/ P. Star

Lauryn Grogan and her cat Lilly She got her cat when she was six years old. Her cat was rescued from her neighbor and gifted to her. Lilly was stuck in a gate filled with dogs and nearly died when she was only a few months old.

“I like to take naps with lilly” Photo/ L. Grogan

Natalie royce and Oakley Oakley is a golden retriever.

“My favorite thing to do with Oakley is take him to the beach. We also enjoy long walks.” Oakley knows all of the basic commands and can handshake and dance.

He will be 2 on may 29th.

Photo/ N. Royce

East High Scroll

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Meet some of East High’s senior’s and their beautiful pets Justice Cronin and Stout Stout is A full breed american pitbull.

“My favorite thing to do with my dog is just sit outside in the sun with him. My favorite memory is when we were comforting each other during a storm, he hates thunder and was just laying on my chest.”

Photo/ J. Cronin

Kalyb quang and Brady Brady is a Shih Tzu-Yorkie. “my dogs name really depends on what he feels like being called that day. sometimes it’s Tom, Brady, Scobert, Doge, but a majority of the time he replies to brady. my favorite memory is teaching him to shake”

Photo/ K. Quang

Tayjah butts and lolly “She doesn’t do anything but sleep so my favorite thing to do with her is take naps. One time my sister accidentally spilled butter and garlic on lolly, even after 2 baths she still smelt like a piece of garlic bread for days.”

Photo/ T. Butts

East High Scroll

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The Senior Galllery

Prom

photo/T.Smith

photo/M. Hernandez

Spirit Week

photos/E.Guerra

East High Scroll

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page editor/E.Guerra

photo/K.Valles

crazy

different ridiculous amazing crazy stress interesting draining

202 1 Senior year in 1 word

unexpected rough peculiar stressful fergalicious

story/K.Tackett

page editor/K.Tackett

illustration/K.Tackett

East High Scroll

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Saying goodbye

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