January 2017 by Lee's Summit HS Hi-Life Magazine

WHO IS NEXT? LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

From the editor A

n open letter to the LSR7 school district: Having grown up the past 18 years a beneficiary of the Lee’s Summit education so publicly acclaimed, I feel I have taken all advantages possible and would honestly like to express all gratitude possible to the teachers and staﬀ that have gotten me this far. Sending my editors to the Stansberry Leadership Center to meet Dr. Carpenter was an eye-opening moment for me in my educational experience, realizing the changes I have lived through, but which have done nothing but improve my experience. Despite things like a brand new High School, moving elementaries, and changes in leadership, I think the openness and true dedication of the district to students developed me into a better leader, learner and person. Even the resignation of Dr. McGehee improved my love of journalism and the ambiguity of truth/morality. The Lee’s Summit R-7 school district often is ridiculed by parental groups, who have no expereince in educational leadership, and who only have their children in mind, while the district must consider all 17,500 plus students in each decision. Applying to colleges often includes essay writing, and definitely requires an ACT score. I was not fully aware of the LSR7 greatness until I saw the national average scores, and the fact that essay writing is seemingly isolated to college by the eyes of most districts around the country. Thankfully, I have had teachers since 2nd grade who taught me the values of thesis statements, supporting details and example use, all the way down to a story about my weekend. When I was in my earlier years in the district, many practices seemed unnecessary and like busy work, as if we just needed “something for the 4th graders to do”, but now in classes like Calculus, IB English, and Spanish 5, I realize there are so many things that were secretly prepaing me for a successful future. The district sometimes makes decisions that are questionable (see: snow week) but overall I know I have been lucky to develop in a school district that cares more about my educational future than their own pockets.

Carter Moore Editor-In-Chief

contents

VISIT US

JLABMAG.COM THIS MONTH: POKEMON GONE CLASSROOM VS SCHOOLOGY TOP ATHLETE’S TOP MUSIC

FACEBOOK.COM/ HILIFE NEWSMAGAZINE

ON THE COVER

28 14 23

FOCUS The Lee’s Summit R-7 district looks to a hopeful future; look back on the tumultuous year that got us here.

FEATURE Fashion is a staple to human culture, take a glance into the modern diﬀerences across the globe.

13 28

NOW ROTC commander Colonel Rick Milligan has had a life filled with travel and grandieur, but you won’t hear that from him.

IDEAS The New Year brings with it new goals and ideas for self-improvement. Photographer Mallory Huser sheds some light on the best and brightest.

COVER PHOTO BY GARRETT STROGINIS

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE TO LIVE BY?

hi life

]

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Carter Moore WEB EDITOR Garrett Stroginis

“The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of the mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one.” - J.D. Salinger, The Catcher in the Rye

FEAUTURE EDITORS Cori Matney Johanna Holmberg Makenzie Kraxberger PHOTO EDITOR Julia Ngega

“It’s not your life, it’s life. Life is bigger than you. Life isn’t something that you possess, it’s something that you take part in and you witness.” - Louis C.K.

OPINIONS EDITOR Madeline Antey COPY EDITORS Molly Goetz Angela Lenhardt MEDIA MANAGER Mathewos Keller ADS MANAGER Abby Ault “Carpe Diem: Seize the day boys, make your lives extraordianary!” -Robin Williams, Dead Poet’s Society

ADVISER Marc Russell

REPORTERS Sara Alley, Yonny Astatke, Audrey Badgerow, Ariel Benedict, Kaylee Blair, Ignacio Cabero, Nora Carrell, Keyara Conn, Clayton Couch, Gabrielle Cunningham, Izzy DeMarco,Aspen DePeralta, De’yhon Doughty, Britten Duet, Zack Easley, Kennady Elliot,Anna Erich, Christina Felix, Maggie Gadd, Charde’ Gahagans, Payton Gale, Cami Hager, Renee Haskell, Tommy Hicks, Makayla Holmberg, Mallory Huser, Emma Jenkins, Jada Johnson, Lauren Kroh, Brittany LeJune, Jonathan Marszalek, Mason Mackey, Da’Qoun McGee, Hunter Montgomery, Makenna Nickens, Ariana Pelzer, David Perkins, Mallory Rajer, Brooke Renfro, Samantha Schierholz, Savannah Setley, Mike Smith, Chris Teeter, Sierra Terry, Parker Tozier, Jordan Turner, Anthony Villarreal, Claire Wagner, Sydney Weyrauch, Tyler Williams, Jessica Winkler

“Make yourself so happy that when others look at you they become happy too” - Yogi Bhajan

what we think H

undreds of outraged adults and students gather in front of City Hall crying two very different messages with the same passion. These protests occurred for numerous days after the election of Donald Trump, and have sparked a great deal of conflict. Many ask themselves of it is unpatriotic in itself to protest who will inevitably be the president, and if these people’s free speech is hurting the country more than it is helping it. “The First Amendment protects our freedom of speech, press, religion, petitioning, and protest,” David Wiebenga, an American history teacher, said. “The main function of it originally was protecting our right to speak out against the government. Prior to the country’s founding, it was not uncommon for the king to throw citizens or people that had spoken against the government in prison,” Wiebenga said In a trying time for the country, it is vital to look back at our past and the principles the country was founded on to understand what the true “patriotic” and “American” thing to do in this situation. “The original intent of the amendment was so that people would be protected from the government, and so that they would be able to participate in the government in a constructive manner, and to challenge the government,” Wiebenga says. Despite this, there are certain instances in which an individual’s free speech can be revoked in the event that it endangers, infringes on the rights of others, or is speech that is directly inflammatory to the government in trying times. It is important to understand that it is impossible to generalize the mindsets of all the individual protestors. There are many people, with many different mindsets, ideals, and different answers to why they are protesting Now, some will say they seek to impeach Donald Trump, which, is obviously unrealistic at this point. The other answers you might hear range from claiming voter fraud, or that they are protesting the ideas spread by the president-elect. Regardless of an individual’s opinion on Donald Trump, there is a general agreement that he is a confident candidate, who loudly and proudly states his opinions which trickle down to almost every source of media an average American could possibly come in contact with. This incited a flood of support, and, as we all know, a strong opposition. The Hi-Life staff thinks it is important to understand that regardless of this fact, and whether one lies in strong support of the president-elect, strong opposition, or indifference, what the people of this country decide to do going forward is what will define it. It is obvious the past election has created a great divide in the nation, and many people are taking the initiative to make themselves heard. The freedom to express oneself has been fundamental in the construction of this country, but equally important ask speaking out-whether that means in conversation, online, or in a protest-but to also listen when others speak out. It is the knee-jerk reaction of both sides in such a politically polarizing climate to shut out the opposition. But it is vital that going forward from this division that the American people can listen and solve the problems that try this nation, regardless of if they side with the left or the right. More importantly than the candidate citizens support is that they are citizens of the same nation. In this unprecedented time in American history, its people must remain united, and remember what truly has made, and makes, America great.

+ NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

FEATURE

NEW SCENES IN ‘17

With a new year comes new restaurants, attractions, and concerts, and having some insight on what’s coming to Kansas City will make the experience even more exciting.

Written by: MAGGIE GADD Photographed by: PARKER TOZIER Designed by: MILES WARD

Ariana Grande: March 18 Sprint Center

Coldplay: August 15 Sprint Center

Heels clicking, voice belting, and hips moving, Ariana Grande will be performing at the Sprint Center in March. Her 2016 album, titled Dangerous Woman, got fans on their feet and she will be sharing old and new songs at this wild concert.

With beautiful harmonies and blended chords expertly executed, Coldplay is also visiting the Sprint Center but in August. They will be treating eager fans with enjoyable music to get their feet tapping and their heads bobbing.

06 | HI+ LIFE <

Insomnia Cookies: 54 east 14th Street KC Power and Light District open 10 am-3 pm Insomnia Cookies has been a popular trend these past few months. They are located in the Power and Light District and people of all ages are exceptionally eager to get there hands on these delicious delights available to anyone at all hours.

Komatsu Ramen: 3951 Broadway KC, Midtown ramen restaurant This foreign restaurant is the perfect source of food on an enjoyable night out in Kansas City. A number of people will enjoy these amazing delights. From noodles to chicken, this restaurant has a variety of scrumptious opportunities.

Two Cellos: November 5 Sprint Center This November, deep melodies emitting from thick strings will sound throughout Sprint Center. Two Cellos will be visiting and without an interest in classical music, anyone would still be delighted to see this dynamic duo work their magic.

Longboards Wraps and Bowls: 506M SE, MO 291 Suite A in Lee’s Summit Located on Suite A in Downtown Lee’s Summit, a unique builidng greets everyone into the restaurant. This local dining area is said to be a very delicious experience and is worth the drive over, no matter how far or close one may be.

+ NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

FEATURE

HOW TO NOT

BREAK A LEG

Written by KENNADY ELLIOT Photographed by RENEE HASKELL Designed by CARTER MOORE

uditions are the epitome of bringing anxiety and worry, carrying the constant fear of not knowing whether or not the audition would be good enough. Standing in front of professionals, not knowing what they are looking for is intimidating enough as it is, but to break that worry, here are a few tips.

Learn all the audition or tryout material before the actual audition or tryout. Coming prepared is key and important, according to Musical Creations Entertainment. Practice as much of the song as one can with a pianist or background music, and always make sure you know the material well before heading into the scene or tryout. Plan when the tryout is, and make sure one has enough practice in before so. Get good sleep, drink plenty of water and eat healthy meals to make sure one is getting enough proteins to try out.

Preparing for an audition ahead of time is important. Some people do not want to come out with a sore throat or busted ankle because one did not prep well enough. For singers, make sure you do proper warm ups and breathing exercises and drink a lot of water to keep your throat to its full potential. One can ask a teacher to help with finding the right warm up. For athletes it is stretching, making sure to keep the muscles loose and ready to go, whether it is football or cheerleading. But do not overwork any part, because that will not help anyone.

Introductions and first impressions matter. Enter the audition or tryout with confidence and good body language, like one wants to be there and people want to succeed. Dress professionally. People care about how people present themselves and how assertive someone is for that role or position. Stand tall and give it the best shot.

Being nervous is part of auditioning and trying out, so nerves will get to people sometimes. It will do someone no good to let them take over the mind with negative thoughts so be positive. If someone messes up on singing, do not stop and keep singing. If one misses a move or play while trying out, do no stop and keep going with everything. Stopping will show that people cannot move past mistakes, in regards to Musical Creations Entertainment.

Rest. Giving one some time to recuperate after working someone so hard during the pre phase of everything will let the body relax and break out any tension. Making sure someone stays healthy is more important than any audition or tryout, letting ones body catch up to the hard work and rewarding ones self with a day or two oďŹ&#x20AC;.

> HI+ LIFE | 07

NOW

PLAY

+F E A T U R E

IDEAS

J HEALTHY & HAPPY

New Year New You

t the stroke of midnight on the first of every year, all sorts of resolutions begin. Most people want to change how they eat, lose weight, or travel more. But what about changing your mind? This month I decided I needed to improve my mental state. I constantly feel myself being weighed down by my lack of confidence and negativity. My goals were to change how I saw myself, improve my attitude, and treat others with more kindness and empathy. The first thing

{

*photo by Garrett Stroginis

1 I did was look up a short inspirational quote [2] and use a dry erase marker to write it on the mirror in my bedroom [3], which I do my makeup in front of so I knew I would see it. The next thing I did was focus on my friendships; I spent my time with friends that allowed me to be myself, and that I genuinely loved

spending time with [1]. The last thing I did was try to go out of my way for others. I gave people rides home from school, complimented my peers, and tried to spend more time with my siblings. All these things really added up and made a significant change in my mental state.

Written, Photographed, and Designed By JOHANNA HOLMBERG

HOW THIS IMPACTED ME + I was a lot more positive this month, and I felt overall happier with my self + My attitude towards others improved + The quote on my mirror was something I saw everyday and made my mornigs a little bit brighter

08 | HI+ LIFE <

}

A+ Missouri Driver Education DR. ROONEY DR. HOLT DR. COOK DR. MILES

MONDAY 8AM-7PM TUESDAY 8AM-7PM WEDNESDAY 8AM-7PM THURSDAY 8AM-7PM FRIDAY 8AM-7PM SATURDAY 8AM-12PM SUNDAY CLOSED

211 NW CHIPMAN RD LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 64063

816-524-1886

FREE HOME PICKUP

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING

ONE ON ONE INSTRUCTION

DEFENSIVE DRIVING

FOR ALL DRIVERS (TEENAGERS & ADULTS) (816) 540 – 5930 Visit us at www.kcdrivered.com

GOING CLUBBING

The first rule of fight club is you do not talk about fight club. However, these student-run clubs are all the talk

PROJECT POSITIVE GAY STRAIGHT ALLIANCE GRAPHIC NOVELS CLUB

he goal as a club is to try and spread positive messages throughout the school and to do that, they have done many different things such as positivity posters and compliment booths at lunch. The club is going to kick off Valentine’s Day with doing some more tear-off posters to help spread some positivity around the halls of the school. Being a place where we want to make everyone feel as if they belong. Wanting to try to make a difference by involving as many students as possible. The club meets on Thursday mornings at 7. Join them to watch inspirational videos, talk and meet new people, play more games and make a difference.

he GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) is a club that fosters a safe, supportive and accepting environment between gay and straight students. The club provides resources that educate and support club members and makes sure everyone feels accepted for being who they are. The club will also organize events that inform members and strengthen the school’s sense of community by coming together. The club is open to everyone and the members attend periodic meetings that are announced at the initial meeting.

he club is more than just novels and it is a club where accepttance is key. Being a place to try and make everyone feel as welcomed as possible, the club is a place where everyone is treated equally and respected. The goal of the club is to try and get people to join and to get current members to speak out and be vocal and inviting students to be social. The club is currently setting up a field trip to go to the International Market and then go to Barnes and Nobel. The club meets every Wednesday before school at 7. Written by: ASPEN DEPERALTA Photographed by: BRITTANY LEJUNE Designed by: MILES WARD

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

VIRTUAL REALITY

+F E A T U R E Written by DE’YHON DOUGHTY Photographed by SYDNEY WEYRAUCH Designed by JOHANNA HOLMBERG

These devices can do much more than let you view new things, they let you dive deep in new perspectives. Virtual Reality beholds limitless potential of favorable experiences.

he beneficial capabilities of Virtual Reality, VR, have made it something that every school must have. From teaching aids to college tours, the possibilities are endless. VR has made the impossible possible. Transportation and time travel are no longer a thing of the future but an idea of the reality- Virtual Reality “It’s like being in a diﬀerent place, physically feeling or seeing like you are actually there. If you are learning about volcanoes, you may see a picture of a volcano but virtual reality makes you feel like you are standing there looking at the volcano. It puts you in the place that you wouldn’t normally be able to see up close,” said librarian Jennifer Coleman. Teaching can new be brought to a new level.

10 | HI+ LIFE <

Lectures and visuals transform experiences. VR makes subjects like science and business more lively. Students dive deep into the sea and take thousand mile trips from a classroom desk. The deadly, dangerous conditions of Volcanoes ironically fall under school safety rules. Students enjoy the exceeding temperatures and hazardous air from the calm 72 degrees of class. History is no a longer figment of the past, but a vision of the present with social study opportunities. The device takes learning and game experience to another level. “There are even scary games and you sit with Netflix on it. The VR makes the phone like a movie theater. Many people like how the gaming becomes so real. It even makes learning at

school more fun. I see it as a tactile teaching tool, being able to see and walk around things,” said senior Brandon Hopson. Taking VR trips are not only more received by students, but a less expensive way to follow interest. College trips are all a part of senior year; however, they require time, travel, and money. Virtual Reality eliminates the burden and enables college visit from any room. Students can scope were the next four year of their lives will be spent, without having to go there. Institution thousands of miles away can be viewed two inches from the eyes.

The new powerful tool spikes interest among students and teachers alike. The countless possibilities can change learning, touring, and gaming forever. The new wave requires no tech savvy, but only a desire to experience concepts from beyond the reality- Virtual Reality.

5 COOL THINGS TO TRY WITH VR

1. RIDE A ROLLER COASTER 2. VISIT A DIFFERENT COUNTRY 3. WATCH A HORROR FILM 4. USE GOOGLE STREET VIEW 5. GO ON COLLEGE VISITS

AWESTRUCK | Sophmore Lauren Robison peers into another world using the virtual reality goggles from the library. “It was a very cool experience and made me feel as if I was actually there,” Lauren said.

AMERICA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL ART AND DESIGN SCHOOL INVITES YOU TO TOUR OUR CAMPUS

Tour our state-of-the-art facilities and residence halls, learn what it’s like to be a student at American’s most influential art and design school, and experience the energy of Chicago, our urban campus. To reserve your space or to tour SAIC’s campus online, visit: Undergraduate Admissions | 312.629.6100 | ugadmiss@saic.edu

saic.edu/tour

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

SWIM, COMPETE, REPEAT The best teammates are the ones that form relationships and inspire people around them. Sophomore Alexa Warburton knows what it means to be on a team.

12 | HI+ LIFE <

he stands on the block ready to dive into the pool. Her hands are shaking, but she is ready. When she makes contact with the water her nervous thoughts disappear and it is just her and the water. “I get a little nervous before a big meet, but it always goes away when I get in the water. I just focus on swimming and getting a good time,” varsity swimmer Alexa Warburton said. Her teammates like her caring attitude. “What makes Alexa stand out from the rest is her kindness and outgoing personality she’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and she will always stop

to help when you ask,” swimmer Audrey Fleschute said. Her favorite races are the 500 freestyle and 100 freestyle. “I like the 500 freestyle because it’s challenging and pushes me to do not just sprint races. I also like the 100 free because it is the total opposite of the 500 and you just have to push yourself in a totally diﬀerent way and sprint the whole time,” Warburton said. She is a hard worker and always tries her best. “She always tries to do well. She also always does the set right and to her full potential of the day,”

+F E A T U R E

swimmer Madison Garner said. Being on a swim team reassures that the athletes will always have people there for them. “The best part of being on the team is knowing you have a family to go to away from home. They’re always there for you and they go through the same pain and work out as you do,” Fleschute said. Warburton has set goals for what she wants to achieve by senior year. “I want to achieve getting my goal times and I also want to make it to state by my senior year,” Warburton said. She also has already accomplished some of her big goals. “Some of my biggest accomplishments were getting on the varsity team, improving my times, and improving my techniques and strokes,” Warburton said. Helping her teammates is always a priority. “At my first swim meet ever I had just won the 100 breaststroke and I was freaking out so Alexa spent a good 20 minutes with me in the warm up lane to go

over everything and calm me down,” Fleschute said. Swim means a lot to her and it is a big part of her life. “Swim is a big part of my life and is just something that I really enjoy doing, it helps me to relieve stress and if I have something going on that is bothering me, swim always helps me forget about it for a little while,” Warburton said. She always encourages her teammates. “She is alway encouraging to the team and has really good tips. She also always gives 100 percent,” Garner said. She is not afraid to help other teammates. “I am always willing to help someone if they need it or just show them how to do something they don’t know how to do,” Warburton said. Her relationship with her teammates is a strong one. “Just being on a team is a really fun environment to be in. We laugh a lot and have fun, but also push each other to get better and help each other to improve,” Warburton said. After she jumps into the water and begins her race, her mind is clear, she is focused and determined. Her problems fade away and it is just her and the water.

Written by: CHRISTINA FELIX Photographed by: MIKE SMITH Designed by: MASON MACKEY

MILLING AROUND

THE WORLD AFTER TRAVELING TO THIRTY-NINE DIFFERENT COUNTRIES, COLONEL RICK MILLIGAN SHARES HIS STORY ABOUT HIS TRAVELS WITH THE STUDENTS.

rom traveling all around the world, working in the Pentagon and coming to Lees Summit, Colonel Rick Milligan came back and are teaching students the hard hitting reality that is ROTC. “Working along Sargent Estes, I have learned that has spend over twenty years in the air force as a boom operator. He started as an air traﬃc controller in a tower and then he transitioned to re-fueling airplanes and that was his career,” Colonel Milligan said. With the commitment

to the students here, Col. Milligan shares his passion with working with the students to watch the program skyrocket with pride. “The most important quality of a soldier is dedication. If you go into the military as a whole and you are not committed, you are not going to do well physically, or mentally. It is important to be able to put others first and put others first and put all self-interest aside along with dedication and commitment,” Milligan said. Being a southern boy and growing up in South

Carolina, Colonel Milligan was raised on military instillations and it plays a big part in his role from growing up to now. “I knew early on that the lifestyle was something that I like. In the course of twenty-four years, I was deployed (temporary duty) to thirty-nine diﬀerent countries and I got a diﬀerent perspective on culture, the way people live and how blessed we are as

Americans.” Col. Milligan said. From being deployed, serving in the first Gulf War, being an air force specialist during 9/11, being a squadron commander in Korea and working in the Pentagon, Milligan has successfully done it all with meeting all goals set for himself. “I am very satisfied with where I am at right now, owning three homes, I am

financially set, but my plan is to spend another five years here and then I plan to retire for good, but I believe the most satisfying part of this job would most definitely be seeing former cadets going to be great Americans.” Colonel Milligan said. Standing arm in arm aside each other and pushing each other to become greater than before Sargent Joel Estes and Colonel Rick Milligan will continue to be the hardworking duo

Written by: ASPEN DEPERALTA Photographed by: JONATHAN MARZALEK Designed by: ELIZABETH MARZALEK

> HI+ LIFE | 13

20th | Dr. David McGehee, in an oﬃcial release from the district, resigns, eﬀective immediately. The Board of Education decides on a severence package of $450,000 paid over 12 months. McGehee publicly states he is proud of what he has accomplished over his 10-year tenure as Superintendent.

16th | Dr. David Benson, a former Kansas state superintendent of the year, and renowned educator in Iowa, Kansas and Missouri is named the interim superintendent for the 2016-17 school year. His compensation pacage is $172,000 less than McGehee’s salary, at $225,000.

17th | A series of surveys and focus groups are conducted to gather community feedback in the search for a new superpintendent. More than 750 community members participate.

9th | After months of deliberation, debate and interviews, the current Hickman Mills superintendent Dr. Dennis L. Carpenter is named the new superintendent of LSR7 school districts. This sparks community rejoice, quickly followed by controversy surrounding law cases against Hickman Mills for age discrimination suits.

1st | Dr.Carpenter will take his new position as superintendent of LSR7 schools. “We believe we have found the perfect fit for Lee’s Summit R-7,” board president Bob White said. “Our Board of Education was especially impressed with Dr. Carpenter’s extensive experience in instructional leadership, student success, fiscal management, operations and school renovation/ construction.” Carpenter will be the first African-American superintendent of LSR7 schools, and one of two AfricanAmericans on the 17-person leadership team.

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

TURNING TABLES

Dr. Carrie Turner swtiches things up by changing her career and following her childhood passion.

or most people, choosing a career is no easy decision. Having to pick between several passions and dedicate your future to one pathway is something many find quite intimidating. In fact,

and I knew I needed to switch things up,” Turner said. Though Dr. Turner has been a musician for almost her entire life, It was not her original plan to become a high school orchestra teacher. Due to a

“She encoraged me to keep working harder and achieve my goals. In the class, she implements fun activities that get the orchestra engaged,” Purcell said.

many people find themselves at a dead end, and search for a way to go back and change your pathway. A prime example would be that of Dr. Carrie Turner, orchestra teacher here at school. “I originally thought of myself as more of an introverted person who didn’t belong in a career that involved a lot of social interaction. I later found out that this was definitely not the case,

14 | HI+ LIFE <

FEEL THE BEAT | Orchestra director Carrie Turner conducts the song “Jupiter” by Gustav Holst. “I just can’t get enough of it,” Turner said.

life,” Turner said. Turner would later go on to get her degree in teaching and conducting, finding her way to Lee’s Summit High School shortly afterwards. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to enhance her students’ musical capabilities with her eccentric and enthusiastic attitude. “I think I’ve learned

that It isn’t just about making everyone happy, as much as it is ensuring that everyone puts in the eﬀort to put our best foot forward and our best sound in front of an audience. I think it’s important to have my students be flexible and be able to tweak every last detail to create the best possible sound,” Turner said.

Clearly, Dr. Turner’s knowledge and talent go farther than most, but it’s her compassion for both music and her students. She inspires each and every one of her students to become better musicians and to better themselves as individuals.

distasteful former teacher, Turner strayed from the music path and furthered her studies in her second passion, science. “I liked science, but it didn’t take long to fall into repetition. I sat in a lab all day with the same handful of people and would hardly get a chance to socialize in or outside the lab. I grew less and less fond of my job as a geneticist, so I started to bring music back into my

Written by: TYLER WILLIAMS Photographed: MASON MACKEY Designed by: SIERRA TERRY

Monday - Thursday 11 am to 10 pm Friday - Saturday 11 am to 10:30 pm Sunday 11 am to 10 pm

547 SE Melody Ln Lee's Summit (Missouri) 64063 816 525-3663

910-C NW Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 Ph: 816-524-3354 Smoky Pepper Jack Turkey. Butterball™ smoked turkey, applewood smoked bacon and pepper jack cheese topped with Honey Mustard on ciabatta bread. Only $6.79 including a side. Then treat yourself to a decadent slice of Chocolate Lovin’ Spoon Cake for only $4.00.

1605 S State Route 7 Blue Springs, (Missouri) 64014 816 228-4697

+ NOW

PLAY

KICKIN’ IT

ophomore Emma Cooney has been involved with martial arts for almost 11 years. It will oﬃcially be 11 years in March. She trains at Gautreaux’s Martial Arts Center in Blue Springs, and Peak Performance in Florida and Iowa. In the oﬀ season she trains about 3-5 times a week for 2-3 hours, when a tournament is coming up she has to start training everyday 3 or 4 months ahead of time. Taekwondo uses more legs and feet as opposed to other types of martial art. However, karate focuses on hand techniques and in matches they have to stop almost every second because of the way their scoring system works. Due to their scoring system they are not able to fight as hard or as intense. In taekwondo, score keepers do not stop the fight at all, so it is hard fighting at a high intensity. “I prefer taekwondo because it’s more continuous and harder fighting,”

IDEAS

FEATURE

Cooney said. Cooney has been to international tournaments in Canada and California. For national tournaments she has traveled to Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois. Her trainers at Gautreaux’s Martial Arts Center are Terry Gautreaux, and Oren Gautreaux. Terry is a bronze medalist in the 1992 Olympic games, while Oren is a world champion and a member of the Korean Taekwondo Hall of Fame. She has traveled to train with Juan Moreno in Florida at Peak Performance. Moreno is a 3 time olympian, 2 time silver olympic medalist and an olympic coach. “I’m extremely lucky to be able to train with such talented athletes who have accomplished so much in their lives. They are the greatest role models and mentors I could ever ask for,” Cooney said. Written by: JORDAN TURNER Photogrraphed by: TOMMY HICKS Designed by: MASON MACKEY

16 | HI+ LIFE <

Cooney is a 3rd Recommended Level 1 Poom Black Belt. In total she has 5 black belts. She earned her first black belt when she was 12. She has participated in the Junior Olympics multiple times and is most proud to have won her 1st place medal. The Junior Olympics is a version of the Olympics for kids. It travels to diﬀerent cities each year in the United States and is a national competition. Cooney won her 1st place medal when it was in Des Moines, Iowa. “My 1st place medal at the Junior Olympics is my favorite because all the

other times I had gone to the Junior Olympics I had gotten 2nd or 3rd, and I was proud to have finally gotten 1st,” Cooney said. Along with taekwondo Cooney is involved in other hobbies, such as cross country and symphony orchestra, as well as being in the top 2 percent of her class. In order to stay on top of her grades she has to do homework in the car, hotel rooms, and stay up late to finish assignments. In order to juggle everything Cooney has found a perfect balance.

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

FRIGHT

IN THE LIMELIGHT | Freshman Violet Eskeval prepares her nerves for the upcoming play Our Town by Thornton Wilder. “Stage Fright is just a build up of excess energy on stage. Everyone gets it at some point,” Director Micah Hensley said. LOCKED UP ON STAGE | Senior Sydney Belt brings the character Madeline Livingston in the Women of Lockerbie in 2015. POSITOOVITY | Sophomore Joey Ferguson lights up the crowd as the pelican Scuttle during the Little Mermaid.

his was the first performance where she was the lead part and her nerves were standing on edge. The only thing she could imagine was forgetting a line or something not going as planned. Moments before stepping on stage, she froze, inhaled, and walked on stage. Suddenly, everything disappeared around her and she was able to execute her performance as best as possible. “I try to be as prepared as I can because that is the biggest way you can combat stage fright. I get little jittery before performances, but I try to take deep breathes and do things that relax me or talk to people that I enjoy talking to,” senior Sydney Belt said. Not everyone has stage fright

but most actors or actresses are aﬀected by these nerves, whether it is butterflies in the stomach or becoming completely frozen. These manifestations of nervousness are just one step to helping someone become a better performer. “My uncle, who is an actor, told me to picture an audition like a performance. If you picture an audition like a performance, it does not feel like there is so much as risk as if you act like you already have the part and you can just be you,” sophomore Joey Ferguson said. Becoming nervous before a performance is a normal reaction because anything can happen. Even though the feeling of butterflies comes, it does not

necessarily have to be a fear of messing up, it can also be a happy nervous because of the excitement. “Even if I am totally prepared and ready, I still get nervous even before I go on stage, but when I am on stage act and singing and dancing or whatever I am doing, then it all goes because I am in character,” senior Madison Heizer said. There are always ways to conquer stage fright. By asking for some advice from a performer or even getting ask from a friend, performing can become easier. “It is something that you care about, it occurs because you are about to do something that you care about, you do not worry about things that you do not care

about,” theatre teacher Micah Hensley said. Stage fright can definitely be overcome, but it happens to everyone in some way, shape, or form. Getting the jitters out before a performance can be diﬃcult, but it is not impossible.

Written by JESSICA WINKLER Photographed by ARIEL BENEDICT Designed by ELIZABETH MARSZALEK

> HI+ LIFE | 17

NOW

PLAY

+ IDEAS

FEATURE

ALL BARK, SOME BITE?

The world is not just occupied by humans.

t is full with life of all different forms, animals and plants and fungi and those weird fish that live at the bottom of the ocean. Many groups of people believe that every life is important, and especially those lives that are threatened. One group in particular focuses on the liberation of the furry creatures organization. They have been known that roam the earth, and that is PETA, to send rescue animals to kill-shelters, People for the Ethical Treatment of produce very demeaning advertisements Animals. But some are wildly against and make content that I can’t agree this organization, with claims of high with,” Emily Sparks, a vegan and rates of animal euthanasia and Ad passionate animal activist said. campaigns that just take it too far. Some controversial PETA ads PETA: a loving care-club of doggie definitely raised some eyebrows. Many rescuers, or a harmful clan of savages? demonstrations outside fur coat and PETA has been an advocate leather clothing stores have taken scary organization for over 35 years, and and gory turns, displaying imagery of has gained millions of blood and guts of animals supporters, becoming and making claims that the largest animal rights were proven false. One organization in the Advertisement read “Got world. Autism? Learn about the “PETA’s goal is “PETA’s goal is to link between autism and end animal suffering. to end animal dairy products”. This claim PETA focuses its was only backed by 2 suffering” attention on the four studies, both inconclusive areas in which the largest of data directly relating numbers of animals autism and dairy products. suffer the most intensely for the longest According to the VDACS, every shelter periods of time: in the food industry, in is required to provide forms stating how the clothing trade, in laboratories, and many animals they took in, how many in the entertainment industry,” Melissa animals were adopted, and how many White, the Youth Campaign Organizer animals were euthanized (killed). By at PETA said. At PETA, freeing dividing the total animals euthanized animals from dangerous and deadly by the total animals taken in, in 2015, confinements is their specialty. over 73% of total animals taken in were Yet, some believe that PETA creates euthanized. a hostile environment in regards to However, other sides of the story protests and ads and has unnecessarily come to surface. high euthanasia rates. “PETA works with open admission “I do not support PETA as an shelters. We transfer most healthy,

18 | HI+ LIFE <

adoptable animals to open admission

shelters. Our euthanasia statistics don’t reflect this because the outside shelter handles the adoptions. PETA has a shelter of last resort, not a traditional shelter. We have a facility where sick, abused, and suﬀering animals are given a peaceful release from their misery under veterinarian supervision,” White said. PETA has much controversy surrounding their actions and motivations, and when most people would care to donate to their incentive, there are local humane societies that would benefit greatly by hard earned dollars. Heart of America Humane Society is a local organization that is dedicated to promoting kindness towards animals. “Heart of America Humane Society is committed to promote kindness to animals, the prevention of cruelty to animals, the extension of humane education, the encouragement of spay/ neuter programs among individual pet owners and animal shelters, and the encouragement of programs designed to adopt animals held at approved animal shelters to approved members of the public,” Heart of America Humane Society said. Based in Kansas City, they protect, save, and find new families for our close-to-home strays. Written by GABRIELLE CUNNINGHAM Photographed by PAYTON GALE Designed by MADDY ANTEY

WHERE DOES ONE DONATED DOLLAR GO? When a dollar is donated to charities, a certain percentage goes towards the service they provide. If a dollar was donated to PETA,

84 cents

of that dollar would be used to assist animals. More locally,

82 CENTS

of a donated dollar to the Kansas City Symphony would be used to provide their musical services. At Starlight Theater, 83

CENTS

of every dollar would go towards dazzling audiences and making the performances great. And at Heart of America Humane Society,

EVERY CENT

goes to the sole purpose of the organization, helping animals.

NOW

PLAY

INSIDE THE AN EDITORIAL COLUMN BY

+ IDEAS

MIND

FEATURE

OF MADELINE OPINIONS EDITOR MADELINE ANTEY Written by MADELINE ANTEY Photographed by GARRETT STROGINIS Designed by MAKENZIE KRAXBERGER

aturday, Jan. 21 millions of women around the world gathered to defend their rights. I am so proud of my fellow human beings for what we achieved. For those that think the women’s march was pathetic, you’re right; we shouldn’t have to march to achieve our fundamental human rights, we should already have them. But unfortunately some women do not, and others are not as respected as they should be. Trump

set out to divide us, but in turn brought us quality do not fear equality. closer together. There were people of various Just because something is not affecting me races, religions, classes, sexualities, and genders; personally doesn’t it is not an injustice. I have from all 7 continents speaking out for not only had the luxury to grow up a privileged white women’s rights, but human rights. girl, but I am humbled enough to realize I must Women face fight for the greater good, many injustices not just what benefits me in America such personally. as the wage gap The women’s march and men having opened my eyes to what the privilege to could be achieved if we all debate what we do work together with open with our bodies. minds and open hearts. “Privelege is when you think Trump plans to There are always going to defund planned be closed-minded people something is not a problem parenthood which trying to stand in the way because it’s not a problem to takes away many of justice, but together we you personally” women’s access can overcome them. to birth control I am so proud to be part as well as safe of a generation that strives abortions. for peace and true justice I do not for all. I am inspired by suffer near the inequalities that people the women that have come before me in order of color or of the LBGTQ+ community to give me the rights I have today. I promise to do, but women do not have all the never let their dream die. I will march as they same privileges as men, especially in have marched. I will fight as they have fought. I other countries. This march was for all will protest as they have protested. I will create women, not just those of us in the US. social change, just as they have. Trump claimed in the inaugural address I will leave you with this quote: “Remember, that he wanted to put the power back the Constitution doesn’t begin with, ‘I, the into the hands of the people, and I president.’ It begins with, ‘We, the people.’” think it’s about time he starts listening Gloria Steinem to what the people really want, not just the straight, white, upper middle class men and their wives that voted for him. I will fight for my rights and equality for all until the day I die, and vote for individuals that will support that fight. My body my choice. Respect my existence or expect my resistance. Hope not fear. Men of

> HI+ LIFE | 19

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

SNOOZE VS. I

n many learning environments, students and teachers simply accept the fact that they have to wake up at unearthly times and do nothing to change it. Many schools, however, have changed their ways for the benefit of those inside of them. Trent Vega, a student at Alta Vista High School in Kansas City, has always had the privilege of being able to wake up at a reasonable time, starting at 8, and now 8:15. While the former may not be far oﬀ from 7:35, it is still a change. “I think that being able to sleep longer aﬀects how students come to school. They would be more energized and ready to learn,” Vega said. Even if it is just a small

20 | HI+ LIFE <

SCHOOL amount of extra time, this could aﬀect students and faculty alike in big ways. This time could be used to do many things, like having more time to get ready, spend a little more time with family, eat breakfast, and most importantly, sleep. Students already have so much to do, so much going on in their minds and this could give them extra time to wind down and properly prepare for the day. While one might easily mistake that if a person on the school board were to approve this, it would simply become reality right then. But Deputy Superintendent of Operations, Dr. Brent Blevins says otherwise. “This would be a much more involved decision making process than just

coming from me. It would involve a large group of individuals, multiple departments and ultimately require school board approval,” Blevins said. It seems the only negative aspect of approving this would be leaving school later. However, most students would be willing to sacrifice part of their after school time for this. The start time needs to be later because in a learning environment, students need to be prepared to learn. With after school activities and all, things can be hectic. There are so many things on a student’s mind and this could aid in easing the franticness.

SLEEP FAST FACTS -BIOLOGICAL SLEEP PATTERNS SHIFT TOWARD LATER TIMES FOR BOTH SLEEPING AND WAKING DURING ADOLESENCE -OPTIMAL TIMES:

11PM-10AM

- MILK HAS THE CHEMICAL TRYPTOPHAN AND, JUST LIKE TURKEY, HELPS THE BODY PRODUCE SEROTONIN, THUS IMPROVING SLEEP.

Written by: AUDREY BADGEROW Photographed by: HUNTER MONTGOMERY Designed by: MAKENZIE KRAXBERGER

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

Written by: ARIANA PELZER Photographed by: KAYLEE BLAIR Designed by: CARTER MOORE

FOREIGNERS’

FASHION CLOTHING DISTINGUISHES PEOPLE AND THEIR CULTURES. ALTHOUGH FASHION CAN BE SIMILAR AROUND THE WORLD, THE LITTLE DIFFERENCES IN TRENDS AND CLOTHES ARE WHAT MAKE FASHION UNIQUE GLOBALLY.

he difference in climate has an effect on the clothing in Denmark, since it is cold they dress more for warmth. Clothing in Denmark is also more expensive. “Clothing is very important to us so we will spend a lot of money,” foreign exchange student Viktor Lucht said. The things worn to school here is different to what would be worn in Denmark. “Kids here will wear sweats to school and it is cool you can wear what you want, in Denmark clothes help you fit in,” Lucht said. Some current trends for teens in Denmark are oversized clothes, denim, and ripped clothing.

n Germany teens will wear Jeans, tank-tops, or long t-shirts to school. This is very similar to what is worn in America, although here dress more sporty and casual. “In Germany we don’t really wear athletic clothes as you do here,” foreign exchange student Michelle Ruprecht said. There are many similar trends here as in Germany, but coming to America there are some new and interesting trends. “An interesting trend I see here is girls wearing high heels or high boot to school,” Ruprecht said.

uch like the United States teens in Spain would wear jeans, sweater, and boots on an average day at school. “In Spain we dress more formal for school,” foreign exchange student Patricia Merelles said. For school in America, kids will dress more athletic and casual that is not really seen in Spain. “A trend I have seen a lot here is socks and sandals which is interesting,” Merelles said.

n Japan we were uniforms at school,” foreign exchange student Thanabordee Sakulsantiporn said. When kids are not at school they will usually wear shorts and a t-shirt. A diﬀerence that is seen here is warmer clothing is required. “We dress a lot warmer here, you will not see a turtle neck in Japan,” Sakulsantiporn said. A new big trend in Japan is Gucci shoes.

> HI+ LIFE | 21

NOW

PLAY

+F E A T U R E

IDEAS

NOT SO STARVING

he clock strikes three in the morning as Dria finishes her next favorite piece. The long art hours are not to beat a deadline, but simply for the endless limits arts hold, and how with a pencil in her hand she is free. Dria is one of many talented art students who all have their own interesting stories, and there’s many of them who are taking their art to the next level. “I love expressing my talents and just the rewarding feeling of when something looks good”, Noah Wood said. Despite having the accomplished feeling of a completed master piece, art also has a deep back story to many artists. Lily smith tries to incorporate emotions into as many of her artworks as she can. “Art’s not only a hobby for me but it’s also a coping mechanism, it’s a great way to express yourself, so i always to try to capture some feeling or emotion in every piece I do. Noah is a senior who loves art wholeheartedly and experiments with as many kinds of medias as possible. Not only does he keep past artworks, but he sells them to teachers and students. “Occasionally I sell art on instagram, but usually it’s to random people like students or, a lot of the time, even teachers”, Noah said. Wood is one of many students who sells their art to a large crowd of people, but each person’s approach to selling art is slightly diﬀerent. “I wake, live, and breathe art, and i just try to show my portfolio to anyone who might be interested,” Susan Flower said. Susan sells her art at the Summit Art Festival where she puts prints, and occasionally originals,, in for consumers to purchase “Last year the City General Manager

Talented art students sell art more than you might have thought, here is where you can find out more about it.

VARIETY| Senior art student Roni Pinnell showcases her artwork through four years. Pinnell has over 20 pieces of artwork. “Art is my passion,” Pinnell said. Written by CHRIS TEETER Photographed by CHRIS TEETER AND JOHANNA HOLMBERG Designed by JOHANNA HOLMBERG

22 | HI+ LIFE <

Timeline of how to Come up with an idea from a memory or feeling

Scale and redraw sketch on to canvas

Sketch out rough draft on a scrap piece of paper

NOW asked the school for my contact information, and he offered to buy one of my pieces for $125,” Flower said. Sophomore Lily Smith likes doing transactions online instead of in person for the simplicity of it. “I sell pieces using pay-pal, but usually use facebook, instagram, or deviantart.com,” Smith said. Even though students are giving away their pieces, there is no way to put into words their love for art. “I could drop out of school, become homeless, and have no friends before giving up my passion for creating. I Couldn’t imagine life without a paintbrush in my hand and a mound of clay on my wheel,” Flower said. Art has been a part of many people’s daily routine for almost all of their lives in some way, shape, or form. Lily Smith is one of these people who has been writing children’s books ever since she was in the second grade. “Ever since a small age I’ve always done art in one way or another. I started off with cartoon hamsters in children’s book and my life as an artist took off from there,” Smith said. Many artists say that the hardest part was getting started, and in hindsight they would have enrolled in a program earlier on. Susan has been in many programs and has her favorites. “My Art was a fun program that really got me started, but after a few years of bad funding it was forced to close down. But currently I’m looking into got art for an art internship to learn as much as I can,” Flower said. Every artist has their beginning and their own path that they took to get them where they are now, and most didn’t start off knowing that they’d be where they are now. Noah is one of these artists who overtime has grown to where he is now. “Freshman year I was focused on detailed pencil work, and I didn’t do much besides pencil. By the time I started senior year I was experimenting with

PLAY

+F E A T U R E

CUTLINE| Senior Roni Pinnell shows one of her deeper thought out pieces of art, a human eye. Titled “Emotions of Eyes” Pinnell explained the pencil work into words. “I find peace in art, and that is why I love it so much,” Pinnell said.

as many diﬀerent kinds of media as I could, and trying to improve my style with each one I discover,” Wood said. For each Artist it’s their own way of style, and own adaptation of how they feel holding the paintbrush. “I love doing art because it’s so calming. There’s no wrong way to go about your work,” Mesz said. Many students try the art program and love all of it for its teachers and the way they handle their classroom. “There’s no expectations, and it’s open for you to make movement with influence,” Mesz said. With all the artistic inspiration floating around, it’s no surprise that students are buying, selling, and making art left and right.

create a masterpiece Add little details

Start buildingcolors and defining shapes

IDEAS

Sign your name and it is finished

MONUMENTAL | Senior Noah Wood shows one of his most liked pieces of art. “The lion because lions are strong and fearless, and the cross because I am a very religious person,” Wood said.

GORGEOUS| Senior art student Susan Flower explains the meaning behind the cover of her art book. “ Flowers are on there because my last name,” Flower said. “I associate myself with the raven skull because they are independent, solo creatures, they’re always very curious and very smart animals,” Flower said.

> HI+ LIFE | 23

NOW

PLAY

Future

+F E A T U R E

IDEAS

TIGERS

Written by: CLAYTON COUCH Photographed by: EMMA JENKINS Designed by: MILES WARD

very year students begin a journey that will change their lives forever. Tommy Lock and Kyle Gerding know that their future starts with LSHS, but what other people might not know is they are the future of LSHS. “He is a quality kid and a good athlete, we could always depend on to be ready and willing to go everyday,” assistant coach Kirk Wishne said.

TOP STUDENTS COMING TO LSHS

JACE VENDELIN

“He is a natural leader, he tries to rise above gossip and adversity,” music teacher Holly Dahn said.

TOMMY LOCK

“We could depend on him to be ready and willing to go everyday, he always had a good attitude at practice and before every game,” coach Kirk Wishne said.

24 | HI+ LIFE <

Whether it is in the classroom or on the field, LSHS ensures a bright future. Tommy Lock is a talented athlete that is on the verge of entering his high school career. He played as the quarterback for the 4-2 Pleasant Lea Tigers in just 6 short games Lock proved himself as a leader on his team. “We had some issues with finding leadership on our team and Tommy was one of the few guys that was willing to step into that role as a leader,” Wishne said. Lock displayed his leadership by showing his team his dedication and fearlessness in practices and in games. “ He did something that was hard and that is playing quarterback in 8th grade, that is a hard position to play in 8th grade, but he never gave up and was fearless throughout the season,” Wishne said. Lock also has the mental part of being an athlete down he showed good attitude and a positive outlook throughout the season. “ Tommy always had a great attitude on every game, practice or team event that we ever held,” Wishne said. Coach Wishne has high expectations for Lock, he believes that Lock could make an impact on Lee’s Summit High School. “ I think he is ready to make an impact on LSHS, obviously that impact would become larger as his body grows,” Wishne said. Regardless of how small Lock is Wishne is confident that he will grow bigger and stronger as he continues down the road of being a tiger. “ I bet he would play some freshman and JV in his Freshman year, but I think he will be able to contribute a lot more his Sophomore year,” Wishne said. Lock is not the only athlete coming to LSHS he will be side by side with a whole class of athletes looking to make an impact on LSHS,

some will be making an impact in different ways than athletics, one of these students is Jace Vendelin. “ Jace is friendly and supportive of his peers, he is a positive role model, a great musician, and has a great sense of humor,” choir director Holly Dahn said. Jace is active in many different types of school activities as well as activities outside of school. “ Jace is a member of the black and gold choir, he plays percussion in concert band, he played in our musical last year. Also he is preparing to play the role of the scarecrow for this year’s production of the “Wizard of Oz”. In addition to his school music activities, he plays percussion and sings in his worship team at church. He is our student council president, he also was a member of the football team, and is currently on the basketball team,” Dahn said. Jace seems to be ready to make a major impact to LSHS in many different ways, as he is a top academic student as well as a athlete. Jace is filled with potential that will only be enhanced by the wonderful staff here at LSHS. “ Jace definitely has the tools to move on to high school he is a natural leader. He knows when to listen and when to speak. He jumps in and takes part of many things at school. He is a good friend to others and a great student,” Dahn said. These two students are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the potential that the incoming freshmen have. With the incoming class of freshmen and the students that are already here LSHS has the potential to not only continue its excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in performing arts, but to become the best in all three of these categories.

NOW

PLAY

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

Written by ANNA ERICH Photographed byJULIA NGEGA Designed by ELIZABETH MARSZALEK

LAKES OF OPPORTUNITY S

COULD THE SCHOOL RIGHT OUTSIDE BE THE RIGHT CHOICE?

prinkles of lead scatter across the paper as students applicants fill out their application to MCC Longview campus, awaiting for the approval of Longview enrollment staff manager Christine Atkinson. “Students are able to enjoy a wide array of both academic and co-curricular experiences at Longview. We offer high-quality academic experiences that combine faculty expertise and access to a breadth of academic support services to include personal advising, free tutoring, mentoring, and career counseling. Students have direct access to the tools and resources that prepare them for success. In addition, Longview is proud to offer a robust co-curricular experience for students to include a variety of student clubs and organization. There is something for everyone at Longview,” Atkinson said. Depending on the education path that students pursue, Longview offers programs that may be financially beneficial before moving on to a larger university. “70 percent of the students who attend MCC are here with the intention of transferring their credits to a bachelor degree granting school. We have more than 400 articulation (transfer) agreements with four-year institutions

which provides students a seamless transition experience. MCC costs about 1/3 of public four-year schools and a fraction of private colleges. If you are an A+ student, the cost of your tuition is paid by the state of Missouri. This is a deal that can not be beat if you approach your college choice with the mind of an investor. More than simply being a low-cost option, MCC delivers high-quality educational experiences, personalized attention, stellar facilities, and demonstrable success of graduates. This makes the return on a student’s investment in his or her education extraordinarily high,” Atkinson said. Despite the fact that the Longview faculty may not be as large as other universities, each faculty member ensures that each student is getting their money’s worth. “Classes at Longview are going to be equal in terms of academic rigor. In fact, many of our adjunct faculty teach at area four-year schools. They [the faculty] use the same curriculum to teach an English 101 class at Longview as they do at Rockhurst. The primary diﬀerence is in relation to the class size. Your instructors will not only know your name, they will get to know your goals and they’re committed to helping you reach them,” Atkinson said.

Outside of the classroom settings, there are various extracurricular activities that can ensure that students are involved in the college experience. “To build community on our campuses, each campus plans student events all year long, from campus-wide celebrations to speakers to concerts. More than just a chance to make friends and have fun, these experiences allow you to develop yourself as a leader and gain skills that can be transferred to your future career. There are literally dozens of clubs and organizations available to students that allow you to explore a personal passion or a career interest. Research shows that students who are socially engaged at their college campus actually have higher GPAs and higher graduation rates.This involvement is critical to a positive student experience and we encourage all students to get involved in at least one area of interest,” Atkinson said. Even if Longview is not what all students dream of for their college life, it is a financially-beneficial choice for students to make and then possibly go on to achieve a four year degree elsewhere.

> HI+ LIFE | 25

NOW

PLAY

THIS YEAR I...

IDEAS

+F E A T U R E

Students share goals for the new year

4 3

1 2

4 5

1 | Senior Chris Janczewski wants to start learning diďŹ&#x20AC;erent languages in hopes of traveling abroad for education. 2 | Senior Kayden Maloney wants to make better eating habits by learning how to cook. 3 | Freshman Morgan Huser wants to take more chances by trying new things. 4 | Sophmore Grace Martin wants to takes a deep breath of fresh air and enjoy the beauty of the world, by spending less time on her phone and more time outside. Written and Photographed by MALLORY HUSER 5 | Senior Hunter Zentner would like to spend more time reading, improving her brain Designed by JOHANNA HOLMBERG 6 | Senior Roni Pinnell wants to work on making more diďŹ&#x192;cult art and turning it into a career.