TROJ ROJAN
THE
ISSUE EIGHT
APRIL 2013
THIS MONTH...
CONTENTS
1
The Trojan, published monthly during the regular school year, is the official publication of Park Hill High School, and is printed by Osage Graphics in Olathe, Kansas. All unsigned editorials represent the opinion of The Trojan staff. Editorials do not necessarily represent the opinion of the faculty or administration including the adviser. The student body receives this paper free of charge to encourage readership, promote awareness of school and community events, and issues, and to showcase student journalistic work. The Trojan welcomes letters to the editors. All letters must be signed to be published, but may be anonymous if the author chooses. Letters may be no more than 350 words and must be delivered to room 350 ten days prior to publication. The Trojan staff welcomes comments, questions and opinions. Send comments to berans@parkhill.k12.mo.us 7701 Barry Road, Kansas City, Mo 64153, or call 816-359-6238.
CAMILLE’S COLUMN LAST LETTER I’ll be getting my diploma in less than a month, so for all the seniors reading these words: this is our last issue. It is, perhaps, traditional for the editor in chief to devote their last letter to graduation musings. But getting to know such a wide range of people in my four years at PHHS has led me to realize that graduation means something different for everybody. I don’t think I’m up to the task of capturing the universe of memories, emotions, and time that the word connotes for everyone who’ll be facing it on May 19, so—forgive me—I’m not even going to try. Instead, I’m going to end on a personal note. To my teachers: I have fond memories of every class I’ve taken here, but I want to give a special thank you to Mr. Smith, Mr. Brosseau, Ms. West, Mr. Fette, Mr. Unsell, Mr. Motta, and especially Ms. Beran. Your classes had an enormous impact on me and I’m honored I had the opportunity to learn from all of you. To our readership: Yeah, we know we make mistakes, and we know that the rest of the student body delights in pointing them out to us. But thanks for sticking with us anyway. The people who read the Trojan are our classmates and our friends, and I think I speak for everyone on staff that I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it. I’m the editor in chief of this magazine. But really, that doesn’t mean very much, because everyone else on staff has worked just as hard, pushed themselves just as much, and given up just as many Friday evenings in room 350 as I have. So, to every member of the Trojan staff: thank you. You guys never stopped raising the bar, and even when my expectations were at their peak, you always blew me away. The Trojan magazine and online staff are all incredibly talented, creative, fabulous, and wonderful people, and working with them has been amazing. They say friends are the family you choose, and if that’s the case, then I couldn’t be luckier. I’m incredibly grateful to every student and staff member who has helped me through these four years. I wouldn’t trade the friends I’ve made for anything, and I’m glad to be a member of the class of 2013. It’s been a wild ride.
TROJAN
THE FEA TURES
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ADVISER Sally Beran
POP-TARTS
More than just a tasty treat, Pop-tarts have become a breakfast staple at PH and in America. Read about our Pop-tart obsession in page 5.
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A HISTORY OF ExCELLENCE
History teacher Jennifer West was nominated for the teacher of the year. To learn about what drives her passion for teaching, turn to page 11.
DEPARTMENTS THEY’VE LEFT THEIR MARK
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Retiring, relocating, or reeducating: unfortunately, a few Park Hill teachers will be saying goodbye after this school year. Turn to page three to find out who.
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PREPARING FOR BATTLE
What happens when four bands get together and face off in an epic music battle? Flip to page nine to see who came out victorious.
MPH Park Hill High School’s Online News Resource
myparkhill.com
REGINA BOLIN
The sports spotlight shines on Regina Bolin, soccer player and star on and off the field.
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Want up-to-the-minute Park Hill news updates? Follow myparkhill.com on Twitter at @my_parkhill.
DESIGN EDITOR Nick Buchberg FEATURE EDITOR Zach Hahn DEPARTMENT EDITOR Mackenzie Thomas
THE CALL OF DUTY
Having difficulty deciding what to do after high school? Page 13 offers some insight into students who chose to pursue a career in the military.
MYPARKHILL.COM FOLLOW MYPARKHILL.COM ON TWITTER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Camille Smith
APPRECIATION FOR FILM Second semester is halfway over, but film club is just beginning. Look on myparkhill.com to find out what this new club is up to.
APRIL
2013
PHOTO EDITOR Kaylin Lake BUSINESS MANAGER Brett Stone REPORTERS Jake Bjornlie Beth Cooper Chloe Lane Jesus Reyes Rylee Stoulil Claire Yost WEBMASTER Molly Weis WEB EDITOR Shannon Barry MYPARKHILL.COM Zoë Butler Sadie Derry JT Fopeano
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Ryan Stanley looks over a textbook.
THEY’VE LEFT THEIR
MARK
CAMPUS
By: JT Fopeano
Charlotte Land teaches an AP Language class.
Margaret Cummings works with a student.
The 2012-13 school year is finally coming to a close with the class of 2013 following suit. However, the seniors are not the only ones preparing to say goodbye. For those who don’t know, PHHS will be parting ways with Communication Arts teachers Charlotte Land and Margaret Cummings. Social Studies teacher Ryan Stanley will also be leaving to fill the position of assistant principal at Congress Middle School. Land is leaving to attend the University of Texas in order to pursue her doctorate. “There are a lot of things about education that I really enjoy, but there are also a lot of things about education that I think could be changed to make it even better,” said Land. “Right now, in my job, I can affect about 150 to 160 students a year, but by pursuing a doctorate I will be in a position where I can affect bigger changes.” Land strives to maintain good relationships with her students in all her classes, notably AP Language. “Mrs. Land takes the time to get to know each of her students and their interests, and we always have great discussions,” junior Chloe Nelson said. “Her class has been really enjoyable because she relates what we’re learning about to the real world and skills for college and when we’re adults.” Cummings, who is retiring after a 42-year teaching career, made her decision to leave on a much more personal level. “You just realize, when you’re in a profession, that it’s just time,” said Cummings. “My husband’s been retired for three years, so this will give us an opportunity to be able to just go places when we want to go and do things.” Before joining the staff at PHHS, Cummings began her career teaching middle school in Indiana for 14 years. She then taught at William Chrisman High School in Independence, Mo., for 20 years. “She’s always happy,” senior Montoria Workuff, who had Cummings for ACT prep, said. While Cummings is making the transition into retirement, Stanley is making the transition into administration. “I’ve been looking to move into administration and have been working on courses for several years now,” said Stanley, now in his fourth year in the Park Hill School District. “I could have a greater impact on more students and be of service to more teachers, as well.” These teachers have undoubtedly had an impact on PHHS’s students and staff, as well as vice versa. How have they benefited, or plan to benefit, the community? Stanley anticipates having an influence on technological advancement in the classroom. “I’m a believer in technology and its use in education, so I’m hoping that I can bring my experience working with technology and my experience as an educator in a classroom and hopefully positively impact the instruction of the teachers of Congress and just be able to build positive relationships with the kids as an administrator,” said Stanley. Land plans to improve upon the education of teachers. “If I stay at the college level, I’ll be training future teachers,” said Land. “So hopefully I can enact new change in the way they are prepared to be in the classroom.” Cummings feels that her legacy lies with the students she has sent away in caps and gowns. “[With] 42 years, and let’s say at least 100 students a year, that’s a minimum of 4200 students that are now out in the world doing great things. I just had a little piece of maybe making an influence on them,” said Cummings.
BEHIND THE SCENES OF STUCO By: Jake Bjornlie
Tucked away in PHHS is a little club comprised of many students who want to help out the school and community. They organize many things such as the homecoming parade, senior citizens’ dinner, courtwarming, father-daughter dance, staff appreciation week, mother-son field day, blood drive, and most school assemblies. This club is Student Council. While STUCO is mostly run by its officers and members, club sponsors Jennifer Paschall and Tara Bell put in a lot of work for STUCO. The sponsors’ responsibility is to oversee the officers and make sure everything goes according to plan. “Ms. Paschall and Mrs. Bell keep everyone active and make sure student council runs smoothly,” junior Angela Morelli said. Sometimes things don’t run as smoothly as they could, and that is where the sponsors really step in. “I try not to tell the officers what they are doing, but help guide them,” said Paschall. To make sure things go well, the sponsors put in a lot of hours. “If it’s something like homecoming week where we have the parade going on, or Mr. Park Hill, it can be a lot of hours. Mr. Park Hill week is a big one. We are usually here from the time school starts in the morning. We work our normal day, then oftentimes we won’t leave until 9:30, maybe 10:00 pm, not including the night of show, which if we are lucky if we get out of here around midnight. There are some weeks where it is a solid 30 hours or so that go into that particular week,” said Bell. Paschall and Bell try to get the officers, as well as the members, to be leaders. “There are certain activities STUCO has to do each year, and then I give the officers the opportunity to come up with new ideas--things that they want to do and develop. Then I try to let them, as much as they want, run with the idea. I give them guidance for what things need to be done for each activity so they don’t leave anything out,” said Paschall. While Paschall is now an incredibly important part of STUCO, this wasn’t always the case. During her first years at PH, she wasn’t involved with the club at all.
Paschall was originally a coach, but she really admired the teacher that was in charge of STUCO. When that teacher became a principle there was an opening in the position, so Paschall applied and got the job. The first year was hard for Paschall. “It was so hard to do it that first year because I relied on the kids to tell me what needed to be done. It helped because at that time there was a leadership class. It was so much easier when it was a class because you could do so much more than we can do now,” said Paschall. Things are easier for Paschall now that she knows how STUCO works, but not everything is easy for the sponsors. “I would say the hardest thing is when we have done something for so many years that some students don’t think it is as important as it should be, or maybe the novelty has worn off. Like senior citizens’ dinner, where every year it’s so important, or the father daughter dance. Some students are like ‘oh, it’s another father daughter dance’ when to some of these kids it is the very first time some of them will ever experience it. So I think for me the hardest part is when Ms. Paschall and I have more attachment to a particular event than the committee does because they don’t recognize how important or how big these events can be,” said Bell. Bell recently went on maternity leave. She delivered her son, Dash Bell, at 7:23 pm on April 15, 2013. Dash weighed seven pounds and eight ounces and was 20 inches at birth. With all the events STUCO runs, as well as the plaques for hall of champions and all weekly arts materials STUCO needs, STUCO spends on average $5000-$7000 dollars a year. Like most clubs at PH, Student Council doesn’t get any money from the school so they have to make all their money through fundraisers. Normally at the beginning of the year STUCO does a fundraiser, such as selling cookie dough. STUCO also raises money from ticket sales for the events they organize.
CAMPUS
5
TASTY JUNKFOODS OR ENDANGERED TREATS?
By: Zach Hahn
What did you have for breakfast this morning? Was it healthy or a bit calorie heavy? Did you even eat breakfast? Or were you one of the dozens of students that went through the lunch line this morning and grabbed one of the five offered flavors of Pop-tarts? In any case, I hope you’re hungry because I have some information for you to eat up. Every day, Pop-tarts soar off the shelves in the cafeteria, yet this may be short lived. Proposed changes to the food options at schools could leave Pop-Tarts and other foods a distant memory in the stomachs of PH students.
Back when it all started, the Kellogg Food Company set out to create a product that was both portable and delicious. In 1963, the company released a pre-made pastry that could be toasted and easily transported. One would think that the speed in which one could eat it or the sound of the toaster popping when it was finished cooking was what gave the pastry the name Pop-Tarts. However, the name came from a pun on the “pop art” style that was taking place in the 1960’s. Originally, Kellogg decided to test the popularity of Pop-Tarts by releasing only four flavors: strawberry, blueberry, brown sugar cinnamon, and apple currant. Surprisingly, the toaster pastries became a sensation, flying off the cake and cookie isles in supermarkets where they were originally sold. And, as time progressed, Pop-Tarts continued to grow and even became revolutionized in 1967 by adding frosting that wouldn’t melt in the toaster. Since then, Pop-Tarts have grown in consumption and are now available in over 20 flavors. Pop-Tarts have in fact become a household Sophomore Jordan brand, making it one of the more successful Roland finishes up a products of Kellogg Food Company. Yet they Pop-Tart for aren’t just tied to supermarkets and homes; breakfast. His Pop-Tarts have become a part of the American favorite flavor is culture. They have made a culinary splash frosted stawberry. with hundreds of creative recipes involving different flavors. Even in pop culture, PopTarts have made their mark by giving internet meme Nyan cat its body (bottom). Pop-Tarts have even made a large impact in PH as one of the faster selling items in the cafeteria, making it a staple in many students’ breakfasts. “In the morning, it’s about half of the items sold: half Pop-Tarts, half breakfast sandwiches. Roughly, we sell about 400 Pop-Tarts in a week,” cafeteria manager Shawna Powell said. This large number of sales can be attributed to the convenience of the pastries, seeing how they’re available in both the cafeteria and the various vending machines located around the school. According to cafeteria assistant manager Susan Tymson, the cafeteria sells approximately 120 Pop-tarts on an average Wednesday late start. Every two days, according to vending machine stocker Derek Mautino, the vending machines distribute approximately 192 Pop-Tarts. In total, PH students consume roughly 150 Pop-Tarts a day. One such student is sophomore Jordan Roland, who makes a habit out of eating Pop-Tarts for breakfast. “I eat Pop-Tarts every day. They’re quick to buy, quick to eat, and they’re delicious. Frosted strawberry is my favorite flavor,” said Roland. Like Roland, many students make Pop-Tarts a part of their morning ritual. In order to keep up with demand, the cafeteria staff orders about a hundred Pop-Tarts per flavor a week while Mautino restocks each vending machine with 48 Pop-Tarts a day. “We order two weeks in advance for everything so it’s tricky. We order about 12 to 14 cases to keep up with demand,” said Powell.
However, that demand may soon go unfulfilled. In 2010, the Obama administration passed the Healthy Kids Act. The details of the Act alter what participating schools can serve in the cafeteria and vending machines. This means that multiple changes will have to be enforced over the course of the next few years. “The Act is a federal mandate to help Americans make better decisions about their health. The idea is that we all suffer from everyone’s poor health while we all can benefit from everyone’s good health,” principal Dr. Brad Kincheloe said. The lengthy document includes a section for each food group students must eat: fruits, vegetables, and grains. Short and sweet: If it isn’t whole grain, half a cup of fruit, or a vegetable, it’s out the door or else the school loses some of its funding. Even though the Act was passed in 2010, changes have been made gradually over the years. “Each student must take a minimum of one cup fruit or vegetable for the school to get the full funding. A lot of companies had to reform their recipes to meet the Act’s requirements. Consequently, we have to take on the extra cost of them reforming their recipes,” said Powell. Noticed the whole wheat macaroni and cheese or the massive increase in options of fruits and vegetables at lunch? These are effects of the Act that have already been put into place by administrators, and according to Powell, they’re not done by a long shot. “Everything now has to be 51 percent whole wheat, but that will double over the next five years. Also, the à la carte items will be taken into effect next year. If the à la carte changes, everything changes,” said Powell. The vending machines, the snack bar, the Snack Shack, the Java Shack and all of the other outlets for snacks are in jeopardy. According to the Act, every snack that doesn’t contain a half cup of fruit or vegetable and every drink that isn’t 100 percent fruit juice or water will be kicked out the door. No more Gatorade, Cheez-its, cookies, Switch, Gardetto’s, and no more Pop-Tarts. “Pop-Tarts, well, they don’t have a half cup fruit or vegetable and they will go bye-bye. For breakfast, they will be, I believe, one per package, whole wheat crust, and no frosting. Everything will be under calorie limitations,” said Powell. While these changes sit well with the Obama administration, students may have differing opinions. For Roland, it’s clear which side he’s on. “This is bogus because a lot of kids get snacks from those places and every kid should get sweets once in a while. I think these changes are making the food nastier and I think a lot of kids are going to start bringing their food from home. No one is going to want to eat that food. This is going to make me not want to eat Pop-Tarts anymore,” said Roland.
SPORTS
7
REGINA BOLIN: A STAR ON AND OFF THE FIELD By: Rylee Stoulil
Starting her third varsity soccer season, junior Regina Bolin is working hard and hoping to continue playing after high school, when she wants to make her mark in Chicago. However, before she focuses on college, she has to work hard to make the Lady Trojans a healthy team again. “We started out pretty good, but towards the middle of the season, people kept getting hurt. It started with our whole defensive line and then it just escalated to the midfield and I think now we have eight or nine people that are hurt and can’t play,” said Bolin. Although Bolin herself suffered a minor injury towards the beginning of the season, she is fulfilling her role -Junior Regina Bolin as captain and continuing to push her teammates to meet their full potentials. “Soccer’s been a big help with my leadership roles, and helping me lead people to do the best for everybody. It’s also taught me to push myself past what I think I’m capable of to improve every day,” said Bolin. The hard work that Bolin puts in doesn’t go unnoticed by her teammates. “She focuses on the little things. She takes the long way, knowing that if she puts in the work, she’ll get the benefit and outcomes she wants. She’s just a very focused and unselfish player,” senior and basketball teammate Davon Thomas said.
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Focusing on the little things and pushing herself to improve every practice helps Bolin work towards her goals for after high school. “I want to play Division I soccer in college. I’m hoping to go to a school in Chicago because I really like the city,” said Bolin. “At the University of Illinois – Chicago, I would be part of the first girls’ soccer team that they’ve ever had at the school.” If she attends UIC, Bolin would be helping to start their soccer program. In preparation for that, Bolin puts in over twenty hours a week playing for the Lady Trojans, but she doesn’t think it will go to waste. “In college you have to spend a lot more than twenty hours a week playing whatever sport you’re doing, so I feel like it will make me prepared for all the time I will have to put in to work on things,” said Bolin. Bolin not only works hard at practice, but she has also made an impression on Thomas, who will be attending college in the fall to play rugby. “Regina--she always rises to every challenge that she come into contact with. She’ll rise up to play in college and she’s an amazing athlete, so that won’t be a problem at all,” said Thomas. Thomas doesn’t just believe that Bolin will do good in college, but also successful even after she graduates. “Regina is an awesome, lovable person that will do great things in life. Someday she’ll be that famous player that I can say I played with,” said Thomas.
Soccer has taught me to push myself past what I think I’m capable of to improve every day.
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NEW BEGINNINGS, FOND FAREWELLS By: Beth Cooper
The end of the year always signals changes, but the end of the 2013 school year brings even more changes than usual. The athletic department will have new additions and tough losses. “The only head coach change we have for next year, so far, that has been hired is Coach Josh Hood from Staley High School. He’s going to be our head football coach,” current athletic director Bill Sobbe said. With Coach Renyolds retiring next year, PH was in the market for a new head football coach. Staley has had great success within the past few years; Coach Hood has helped lead the Falcons to victory as the 2011 Class 5 State Champions. “Obviously wearing the red and white is going to be a new experience for me, but one that I am extremely excited about. I have had the opportunity to be in the decision-making process of some great coaching staffs recently, so sliding over to the head coach’s seat is not a move that I have not dreamed of making for some time now. I have never, however, been the final voice in the scheduling aspect of the offseason so that has been a new venture for me. Having the opportunity to lead a highly respected coaching staff such as this one is an exciting opportunity for me. I look forward to implementing my offensive and defensive programs at a school of such rich football tradition. I look forward to an exciting year for myself and the Park Hill football program as well,” Coach Josh Hood said. Trojan football players hope that Coach Hood’s addition to the program will improve the team’s record for next year. “It’s really going to be a whole new system. It’s a new offense; our defense is going to be a whole new system. The only thing that’s really going to be the same is some of the coaches and the players,” sophomore football player Stephen Swett said.
A new coach will signal changes and bring new plans. Hood plans to take the team to camps at Northwest Missouri State University, and implement his own new unique strength and conditioning programs during the summer. “Obviously with a new coach there comes a different style of coaching. I’m sure practices will have a different look, I will have some new traditions we establish, and the offensive and defensive philosophies will change. This is not uncommon when a new head coach is hired. I intend to play off the winning traditions and successful program Coach Reynolds established while putting my own unique spin on things. The tempo of play will look a little faster on Friday night and feature a few new traditions I feel the student body will embrace,” said Hood. The entrance of Coach Hood isn’t the only change faced by the PH athletic department for next year. As new coaches enter, a PH legend prepares to leave. Bill Sobbe has been athletic director for many years, and his retirement signals new roles for current staff members. Bill Erneste, current math teacher and head wrestling coach, will be filling the role of the athletic director next year. “Coach Erneste will do a good job at whatever role he gets. I don’t anticipate problems for him because he’s pretty dynamic in the way he handles things. He’ll do a great job, he’ll have interest in everything we’ve done before, and figure out new ways to get kids interested in what we’re doing,” said Sobbe.
STUDENTS’ MEMORIES OF SOBBE “Sobbe is very passionate about his job, and I will miss him next year.” -Sophomore Amanda Battmer
“He’s the reason I’ve chosen to wear my I.D. every day.” -Junior Nathan Keller
“It is really great when Sobbe gives you lunch money when you don’t have it. You never have to worry about going hungry because Sobbe is there and that is a comforting thought and something I will miss.” -Junior Harrison Hostick
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PREPARING FOR
COMMUNITY
By: Brett Stone
BATTLE
One of Park Hill’s biggest events was just two weeks ago: Battle of the Bands. But behind the scenes and beyond the performances, an event this big requires a lot of preparation. German Club runs Battle of the Bands and is sponsored by German teacher Meghan Shafer. This is Shafer’s first year teaching. She’s native to Kansas City, but for the past three years she’s worked in Washington D.C. “The most exciting thing about Battle of the Bands is getting to hear the music and see students in a different setting doing something they’re passionate about,” said Shafer. Before sponsoring Battle of the Bands, Shafer had experience with music, and it has been a big part in her life. “Music is something that’s important to me. When I was in high school, I did jazz band and marching band. Music is something that’s invaluable. Battle of the Bands has tied together my love for German with my love for music,” said Shafer. There were seven bands that performed, and the proceeds went to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (a charity that the German Club voted to receive the donations). Junior Austin Pierce, who showcased his music at Battle of the Bands, has been with the band Almost Serious for three years. He’s had to balance being in a band with his rigorous schedule and being the president of film club. “Being in a band has been a great bonding experience. It’s like we’re a brotherhood,” said Pierce. Senior Amanda Sarver is the president of German Club, which means she was the main organizer behind Battle of the Bands. “Battle of the Bands is very important. Not
Photo: Senior Danzel Capers performs at Battle of the Bands
a lot of students have a chance to share their music and Battle of the Bands allows them to do it. It’s especially nice because Park Hill has so much talent,” said Sarver. Other than Battle of the Bands, German club has no connection with music. But for no reason in particular, it’s been an 11 year tradition for German club to host the event. “The hardest part about organizing this is all the little details we have to do. Also, coordinating with the bands isn’t easy,” said Sarver. The band Double Vision won the show. Freshmen Micah and Mason Marrs, who are members of Double Vision, also won the talent show this year. “It’s an honor to be chosen for both [Battle of the Bands and the talent show] and we’re just glad that we got to participate and help with charity,” said Micah. After splitting the proceeds of the event in half, with the other half going to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the band won 152 dollars. They decided to split it four ways, and the members are planning to use some of the money to buy better equipment. But before winning Battle of the Bands and the talent show, Double Vision had an interesting start. “My brother and I started playing at the city market, just for tips. From there people would say ‘would you come play at my church event or my youth camp’ and we even had a couple of invitations to play at birthday parties. People would see you there and then invite you to something else,” said Micah. Double Vision isn’t planning on leaving the Park Hill scene. The band intends to perform for the talent show and Battle of the Bands next year.
Micah Marrs, the lead singer of Double Vision, sings for Battle of the Bands.
Christian Derra awards two members of Double Vision, Micah and Mason Marrs, with the check.
THE BEAT OF THEIR OWN DRUMS STUDENTS SELECTED FOR ELITE MUSIC GROUP By: Shannon Barry
Seniors Caleb Fankhauser and Graham Deckard share a common love for music. After graduation, they will take this passion to the next level after being selected for the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps. The Corps, based in Casper, Wyoming, is a world-class competitive performing arts organization, and Deckard and Fankhauser had to devote many hours to practicing before their auditions. “We practice daily for hours. I usually leave school around 9:00 or 9:30 every night,” said Deckard. Now that they’re part of the Corps, the boys will embark on a competitive tour playing against other drum corps. The tour will begin in Indianapolis, In. on May 21 and end with the World Championships on Aug. 10. “Being able to watch other people while I was learning how to play was really important to me. It’s like the big leagues for us,” said Deckard. For the two seniors, being part of this organization has been a longtime dream. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. The opportunity to be with people that care so much about what I care about is great. I’m blown away by all their talent; they’re so good at what they do,” said Fankhauser. After being accepted, the two now must attend camps once a month. For Fankhauser, one of his most memorable drumming experiences took place during a Troopers camp. “Our plane landed in Denver for camp and everyone rode a bus to Wyoming together,” explained Fankhauser. “While we were driving our bus kind of caught on fire and the directors told us to get off the bus and get out our drums. We pretty much just had sectionals on the side of the highway until our replacement bus came. When we got to camp they had pizza for us since we missed lunch, but we still had to practice for two hours before we could eat any of it.” Deckard and Fankhauser have been involved in drums since joining drumline their freshman year in 2009, with Fankhauser playing tenor and Deckard on snare. Now both seniors, they have dedicated four years to improving the group and preparing for the annual drum show, taking place on April 30. While coming to terms with their Park Hill drum line career coming to an end, they’re preparing for a future with the Troopers. “It’s helping me transition. I’m moving on to something different than this and I hope I can still be successful,” said Deckard. “Drum line will never end for me; it still hasn’t hit me yet because I’ve been worrying so much about being on drum line somewhere else,” said Fankhauser.
Senior Caleb Fankhauser practices for drum line.
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History of
Excellence Social Studies teacher Jennifer West was recently nominated for teacher of the year.
FEATURE
By: Camille Smith
Jennifer West has only been teaching at PHHS for six years, but she has already made her mark on the district. Recently West was a finalist for one of the school district’s highest honors, the teacher of the year award. But despite this recognition of her excellence in teaching, West didn’t always plan to go into education. In fact, there was a time when teaching was the last thing on her mind. “I come from a background of teachers. My family are all teachers, and I had all of them, because I’m from such a small town. So actually, the very last thing I wanted to do was teach,” said West. West’s hometown of Fulton, MO has a population of 13,000. As she often tells her students in World History and AP Human Geography, Fulton’s small size doesn’t match up with its significance to history—Winston Churchill delivered his famous Iron Curtain speech in Fulton’s town square. After graduating from high school, West went to college to pursue a history major. “I began taking history courses because it interested me, and I realized that I wanted to be a history major. However, once I realized that it’s incredibly difficult to find a career as a history major, I realized that I also liked the counseling aspect of working with kids; particularly high school because I feel like high school’s a trying time with a lot of growth. I thought about counseling, but when I thought back to my high school career, it was the teachers that had an effect on me because I saw them every day. I realized that I could play that role and share my passion. So I bridged the two and then came sulking home with my tail between my legs, telling my parents I was changing majors to education,” said West. After switching majors, West attained her Master’s degree from the University of Missouri Fellowship program. The fellowship is an intensive one-year program where applicants are paired with a school district and receive 12,000 dollars to teach there for a year without pay, after which they write their master’s thesis. West’s year was spent in Bridger Middle School in Independence, after which she wrote her thesis on reading comprehension in expository text
(textbooks). Following her year in Independence, West moved to the Park Hill School district, where she became involved in AVID teaching, softball, and the Technology Committee. Despite her short tenure here at PHHS, district administrators feel that West has exhibited all the qualities they look for when determining a teacher of the year. “We’re looking for teachers who are technology leaders and innovative in how they teach; somebody who understands the direction of the district and what our strategic plans are. But at the real bottom line is that they’re absolutely and totally focused on their students, and Ms. West is totally focused on students. That’s the type of teacher that gets nominated,” Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Bill Redinger said. Junior Hannah Conner, one of West’s AP Human Geography students, agrees with Dr. Redinger’s point about student focus. “Ms. West is a wonderful teacher. She has a charisma that makes her class interesting for every student, and she is more than willing to go above and beyond for any student who asks for help. I feel the nomination was very well deserved,” said Conner. Following her nomination, West was interviewed by a committee of past teacher of the year winners as well as Dr. Redinger. This year, the award went to Cheryl Scott, a teacher at Tiffany Ridge Elementary, and the nomination process is still open for next year. Anyone in the district—students, parents, teachers, and support staff— can nominate teachers they think deserve to receive the award. And even if she didn’t win, West is still happy to have had this experience. “I am not the least bit upset that I didn’t win. To get in the top four teachers is such an honor, and considering that there are so many incredible teachers in this building, it’s more than I would have expected,” said West. “I’ve loved watching my AP class grow from two sections of 15 kids to 72 kids last year, teaching four classes of it. Seeing kids get college credit that really did not think they could is awesome. That’s by far the most rewarding.”
Jennifer West helps her AP Human Geography class prepare for a test. The class has doubled since West began teaching it, and is the only AP class available to freshmen.
PAST WINNERS: 2002-2003: Don Crabtree: Park Hill High School 2004-2005: Beverly Vogt:
Union
Chapel Elementary 2006-2007: Linda Wiederholt: Plaza Middle School 2007-2008: Rita Altherr: Park Hill South 2008-2009: Todd Lindsay: Park Hill South 2009-2010: Jetta Mcginniss: Park Hill South 2010-2011: Natalie
Barner: Chinn
Elementary 2011-2012: Tara Kalis: Park Hill Day School 2012-2013: Vicki Hansen: Hawthorn Elementary 2013-2014: Cheryl Scott: Tiffany Ridge Elementary
13
PROM HOW TO LOOK GOOD ON THE CHEAP
LIFE
1. Instead of getting a professional picture at the dance, take it at home Professional prom pictures can cost anywhere from $25 to $50. However, your parents or family members probably own a camera. Go to a public location, or a friend’s backyard where there’s good light, and get pictures taken there. Walmart can print these photos for $0.09.
2. Don’t rent a tux A full tuxedo rental can cost $300 just for one day. If you want to save money on this cost, consider renting a suit instead. A suit looks just as nice, and can save you about $130. If that price still seems high, consider looking at thrift stores for suits. Oftentimes they will have suits in varying sizes for fairly cheap. With alterations, a thrift store suit could in total cost around $75, and you can wear the suit to other occasions.
3. Choose a dress you (or a friend) can wear again Have a friend that is the same dress size as you? Sell your dress to her for next year! Or buy a dress from a friend. Nobody will ever know you’re wearing a pre-owned dress because chances are, it’s still in style if a friend wore it the previous year. Some dresses can cost up to $500, but buying it off a friend can easily save you $300.
4. Don’t buy new shoes or pay for hair or accessories Get a few god friends together the afternoon of prom and do each other’s hair! You’ll save about $40 just doing this. Wear shoes or accessories you already own. Chances are you, your mom or friends own a few neutral bracelets or necklaces you can wear that match your dress. Painting your nails yourself can also save you $30. Wearing shoes and accessories you already own can save you upwards of $100.
5. Set a budget on how much to spend total Setting a total budget gives you a better idea of how much you should actually plan to spend. When coming up with a total budget, be sure to write it down where it’s easily accessible when shopping. Be sure to write down everything you buy, and to save some money for the actual night of. This way you’ll avoid spending more money than you should.
Senior Matt Lund
Senior Michael Bidwell
Senior Lane Holmes
CALL OF DUTY By: Jesus Reyes
A four-year university isn’t the only option for students who are graduating high school. The military has five main branches-Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard—that My story: a person can join, and PHHS has several students that plan on continuing their education The military wasn’t through the military. “I want to go into international relations with a focus on China, so I thought, well, the always in my military is going to pay for my school and give me a job, and that’s just the best plan for me,” mind. I did not senior Michael Bidwell said. know what I was Bidwell is one of two PH seniors who will be continuing their education at West Point going to be or Military Academy. West Point is located in New York and sits on scenic high ground do in the overlooking the Hudson River. “It was really hard to get in. I had to go through a lot of applications. [West future. At Point] is rated in the top 10 colleges in the nation every year,” senior Lane first I Holmes, who was also admitted to West Point, said. wanted to be The academy is very prestigious, and for two applicants from the an accountant but then decided to same high school to be admitted is highly uncommon. Of all the seniors (as many as 10,000) who apply to West Point every year, be a mechanical engineer. My parents only 9 percent—about 1200—are admitted. always asked me what I wanted to be, and “I’m going to West Point to get my degree first, and then I knew the military was always an option. I serve as an officer in the military,” said Bidwell. “I think there decided that the military was going to be the best need to be people on the inside saying, ‘no, we don’t need to decision for me. I want to go in to the send over troops.’ I think we need people in the military that are trying to end things peacefully, and that’s really why I want to Air Force. I think that that’s the join the military.” best for me because I still don’t Many people join the military because they want a better life, they want to serve their know if I want to be a country or because they want to keep studying but don’t have the resources. mechanical engineer. I want “At first I wanted to join for college money, but now it’s my life and I love it,” senior and army enlistee Matt Lund said. “I want to go to ROTC in college and become an officer, and to be something better than go to the infantry and Special Forces. Sky’s the limit.” what my parents are right Even before he considered apply to West Point, Holmes always knew that he wanted to now. I want to be better, to join the military to follow his father and grandfather’s steps. have a better life. I think that “The best way to give back to give back to the community is by serving in the military,” the military would help me said Holmes. “I always thought this was best for my life.” The military is not as fun as movies and TV shows make it seem; the military is tough. accomplish my dream. It’s Not everyone who joins makes it all the way. Many who enlist in the military struggle with going to take a lot of hard work the physical demands, as well as being away from their friends and family. When he went to get to my dream but I’m to basic training in summer 2012 after first enlisting, Lund struggled with isolation from his willing to put out the work if it loved ones. “I didn’t have any connection to the outside world. All we could do was write letters and means that I can accomplish it. It we couldn’t get any newspaper or anything like that from our family. If they found it they would be hard to be away from my would rip it and throw it away and we would get in a lot of trouble. The biggest challenge love ones, but sometimes you have to was probably being away from home and not talking to my family, only like once a month,” give up something in change to get said Lund.
something better out of it.
SENIOR
15
ALL GOOD THINGS
COME TO AN END
THE CLASS OF 2013 ENTERS ITS FINAL DAYS ROAMING THE HALLS OF PARK HILL
SENIORS SAY
GOODBYE NEWSPAPER SENIORS’ FINAL THOUGHTS
Zach Hahn I want to say thank you to Jennifer Bell for raising the confidence of an insecure freshman by praising his writing. I want to say thank you to John Vanderpool for taking everything a sophomore knew about writing and escalating it farther than ever imagined. I want to say thank you to Kevin Rask for allowing an unorthodox junior to take creative risks in writing essays and study cards. I want to say thank you to Mike Sweney for offering a new artistic outlet to a senior who thought writing was the only thing they were good at. I want to offer thanks to all the teachers who’ve taught me new subjects and to fellow students who’ve become the best friends I’ve ever had. However, to Sally Beran, I owe the biggest thanks I could ever hope to give for the opportunity to let the entire school hear my voice when it would have otherwise gone mumbled. I thank her for making 350 not just my favorite classroom but a home away from home where I’ve spent a great deal of time at. I owe so much to the brilliant, caring people I’ve had the privilege to meet in this school and I hope that they know how grateful I am from these 215 words. Claire Yost Too many people just think high school is another four years of school, but it’s really a place for students to find themselves and figure out who they are. I just wanted to say thank you to all the teachers that I’ve had and everyone that’s helped me through high school. But I want to give a big shout out to my dance coach Danice Shaw for being the best coach and supporter these past years. Thanks to everyone who’s made my high school years something I’ll never forget. J.T. Fopeano Mere words simply cannot sum up my expirence at PHHS over the past four years. To say the very least, it has been interesting and eye-opening. I wish to take this opportunity to thank all those who have made it that way. My journey towards becoming a professional journalist is far from complete, but I’d like to give a very special thanks to Mrs. Beran, the head of the journalism department, for helping me get closer to achieving that goal. I’d also like to thank Mr. Bingham for befirending me and making Spanish class exciting. I haven’t forgotten about anyone else who taught me. Rest assured, you all have my thanks.
Nick Buchberg I have to thank several of my teachers before I can leave Park Hill forever. To Tyler Unsell, I owe the ability to speak with confidence and meaning to a crowd of people, with or without a prepared speech. To Emily Main I owe a great deal for creating a place where people who are different can be themselves, and I owe you for making myself comfortable with myself. To Mr. Vanderpool, I owe the ability to write with confidence, meaning and elegance. But most of all, I owe my self-confidence and my passions for design and journalism to Sally Beran. I remember the first time I ever stepped foot in your classroom, Mrs. Beran. I was a confused freshman trying to find my classes and you told me that if I ever needed a place to go to and feel safe, I could come visit 350. Every second of these past four crazy years are memories I will cherish forever. From the mind-numbingly endless hours we’ve spent editing issues on worknights, to the trips to other cities for convention, I will never forget the adventure that was high school journalism. Thank you for showing me the wonderful world of journalism. I am forever indebted to you for giving me a career and a passion for finding the truth and telling the world. I may be a Kangaroo come August, but I’ll always be a Trojan!
Brett Stone College, which used to seem so far away, is about to happen. However, I’m confident I’ll be able to succeed and I have my amazing teachers to thank for that. Mrs. Beran, Mr. Fette, Mr. Howe, Mr. Brosseau, and all the other teachers I’ve had at Park Hill have prepared me for whatever comes after high school. I’m sad because I have to leave these teachers, but because it has to happen anyway, I’ll do what they would want me to do and that’s try my hardest to succeed and strive to constantly learn. Thank you for a meaningful four years! Sadie Derry
Dear Mr. Vanderpool, When I got my schedule for my sophomore year, I was a little scared that your name was on it. Everyone told me that you were one of the hardest English teachers that I would have, and that was the truth. Although it was hard, I learned so much from your class. I would not be the writer I am now if I hadn’t had you as a teacher my sophomore year. You challenged me to reach my potential in writing and you also helped me grow as an individual. If I need advice, I know I can come to you for help. You will be remembered as one of my favorite teachers from Park Hill High School.
SENIOR
17
S P R E A D I N G
A CROSS THE COUNTRY CLASS OF 2013 COLLEGE MAP
Arizona
Nebraska
Arizona State University Kelsey Coyle
University of Nebraska Courtney Koch, Otto Gaiser
Arkansas
New Mexico
University Of Arkansas Jill Kallenberger, Kainen Utt, Matthew Lund Ozark Technical College Alexis Rooney
Aveda Institute Schyler Janner
California San Francicso State University Evan Anderson
Georgia Atlanta Metropolitan State College Victoria Lee University of West Georgia Catherine Benitez
Idaho Brigham Young University Faith Arendt
Illinois Columbia College Adrianna Capraio Southern Illinois University Russell Coleman Bradley University Jordan Dennis
Iowa Drake University Hannah Smith Iowa State University Kenneth Sutten Southwestern Iowa Community College Samuel Heustis Iowa Wesleyan University Rachyl Williams Central College Kelcee Rennaker
Louisiana Southeastern Louisiana State University Lindsay Grace
Massachusetts Harvard Daniel Chen
New York West Point Military Academy Michael Bidwell, Lane Holmes New York University Maddie Hemphill Baruch College Rebecca Everhart New York Community College Erika Tanis
Ohio Ohio State University Jessica Hanson
Oklahoma Oral Roberts Sadie Derry Tulsa Community College Cresean Lewis
Rhode Island Johnson and Wales University Austin Nachbar
South Carolina Coastal Carolina Dalton Moats
Tennessee Vanderbilt Joyce Liu
Utah Brigham Young University Hannah Dantzscher, Lauren Shaw
Vermont University of Vermont Andrew Carter
Wyoming University of Wyoming Spencer Culver Wyotech Hunter Slaton
Military Service: Ashley Sutlief, Chris Alpers, Bryan Davis, Joseph Hill, Zachary Clason, Marcus Woods
19
STAYING CLOSE
TO HOME
SENIOR
TROJANS GO TO MISSOURI AND KANSAS COLLEGES
KANSAS COLLEGES
NEOSHO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BAKER UNIVERSITY
OTTAWA UNIVERSITY
Keaton Anchors, Kathryn Hibbeler, Austin Martin,
UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
Rylie Bicknell, Kyle Branton, Elissa Bowen, Megan Meier, Tate Hammons, Quinn Pudenz, Sydney Hultz
KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
Katlin Moran, Malik Colding
Branden Riley
KANSAS CITY KANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE Nick Hagen
JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Morgan Pehlman, Michelle Ragan, Grant Ferland, Joseph Hickman
Desire Hicks, Darius McCray, Rudy Lee, Amber Asher, Akon Ater, Thomas Erhard, Joseph Johnson, Anthony Arens, Jemisha Smith
PITTSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY
ALLEN COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Samantha Koeliker, Cooper Gardner
ART INSITUTE INTERNATIONAL Zach Sinnett
Zachary Maskill
WASHBURN UNIVERSITY Kevin Daily
MISSOURI COLLEGES UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI
Brianna Donahue, Trevon Green, Olivia Meyer, Delaney Stevenson, Gabi Zavala, Karl Zubiri, Vivian Chang, Paxton DiBlasi, JT Fopeano, Megan Gascich, Brad Hagen, Abigail Hill, Nicole Koehler, Jasmine Lim, Emilie Miller, Elizabeth Peoples, Lizzie Rider, Morgan Ryan, Cole Steins, Justin Thurston, Will Vonhausen, Baily Warlen, Darius Washington, Alex Williams, Cain Winebrenner, Morgan Wishard, Mason Witherspoon, Austin Davis
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI
Dominique Anderson, Alyssa Bowman, Jared Drees, Becca Good, Lindsay Graham, Tiara Hammond, Terrion Jones, Tim Jones, Clayton Lala, Emily Northen, Brandi Peters, Darion Peterson, Makenzi Porter, Tierya Rowland, Savannah Santellan, Rekyndra Sawyer, Joseph Sobbing, Zack Terrell, Mitchell Tittone, Justin Yeh
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI at KANSAS CITY
Zach Aulgur, Nick Buchberg, Christian Derra, Ryann Fahrenholz, Megan Gregor, Zac Handford, Bailey Joswick, Jacquel Lopez, Teele Mannick, Abby Muller, Morgan Paul, Karly Plickebaum, Ashley Ragen, Shams Sabri, Chanarithi Suon, Harley Thomas, Keair White, Mesgana Yimer, Glenda Craig, Claire Yost
Maple Woods COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Zach Hahn, Hannah Cruse, Caitlin Shaver, Ashlyn Claycomb, Lindsey Bulla, Roy Griffin, Freya Medford, Natalie March, Haley Roe, Chandler Selix, Grant Williams, Jamey Stewart, Anahy Cervantes, Aaron Davis, Rebecca Gauthier, Samantha Ritsch, Brittany Childers, Hannah Squire, Josiah Shelmon, Ryan Lindsey, Ali al Qaysi, Chase Bengston, Josh Black, Michala Bock, Nathan Bridges, Logan Browns, Ryan Burr, Andrew Butler, Emily Carton, Matt Cabiness, Caitlin Clayson, Kelsey Davis, Bali Eddins, Siera Edwards, Ashley Falbo, Caleb Hillhouse, Tapica Hunter, Cassie Kerr, Samuel Kivett, Chelsey Lewis, Luke McCord, Eric McDaniels, Lindsy Monroe, Marissa Moore, Michael Post, Christian Ramirez, Michael Rick, Sam Rich, Jake Roepe, Aliah Vaughn, Austin Walls, Logan Ward, Shakinah Wesley, Shane Williams, Montoria Workuff, Alyssa Wright, Tyler Zeff, Lili Allen-Franco, Ryan Hudson,
Katie Cowden, Tyler Brown, Brian Cortes, Kymberlee Crupper, Joseph Evano, Keyvin Goodloe, Vejay Iyechad, Kaleb King, Natalie March,
Truman State UNIVERSITY
Miriam Bouallegue, Jordan Day, Maddie Dobbie, Madison Eiberger, Brooke Evans, Joanna Grauberger, Tia Hernandez, Benton Hoang, Emily Jackson, Maggie Kendall, Katie Kneib, Travis McClelland, Thomas Morrison, Bailie O’Connell, Andrew Otto, Mark Prose, Alisa Rippee, Camille Smith, Mason Tarpley, Nate Thomas, Vince Tutorino, Erica Vancleve
Missouri State UNIVERSITY
Kyle Allen, Sam Atkinson, Kim Blakes, Jaeden Cortes, Bret Elley, Sun ah Pak, Neal Sampson, Amanda Sarver, Erik Stratman, Sarah Thompson, Kayla Toyne
ST. LOUIS UNIVERSITY
Missouri Western UNIVERSITY Danzel Capers, Graham Deckard, Caleb Fankhauser, Valerie Fuentes, Will Gaye, Kenny Larsen, Lindsay Muzar, Conner Sameneus, Brittany White, Jamaal Barnes
Maryville University Santina Bustamante
MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cole Deegan, Rylee Fahrenholz, Austin Hall, McKady Kellam, Reide LaRosh, Jake Listhartke, Tyler Matthews, Artis Norfleet, Max Schoettger, Monica Sequerra, Logan Sloniker, Zach Smedley, Austin Truvillion, Caroline Tran
BLUE RIVER COMMUNITY COLLEGE Mason Fannin
Madison Bischof, Kaitlin Edwards
AVILA UNIVERSITY Northwest Missouri State University
Aubrey Bowser, Morgan DeKeyser, Colton Livingston, Amber Panich, Samantha Snodgrass, Megan Espionza, Nicholas Muller, Haley Ebbrecht, Justin Ball, Zach Montgomery, Becca Nawakowski
UNIVERSITY OF St. Mary
Timothy Jones, Quinton Emerson, Gary Osborn, Corey Welch
Lindinwood UNIVERSITY
Davon Thomas, Matthew Wagner, Laney Abramson
Southwest Baptist UNIVERSITY Daniel Lewis, Seth Ell
Kansas City Art Institute Melissa Young, Jordan Tanner, Natalie Lambert
Miranda Winkie
PENN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Jessica Carter, Lexie Swinney, Alyssa Yslas, Andrew Palmer
William Jewell COLLEGE Brett Stone, Ben Shinogle, Nate Conway
Graceland university Devonte’ Thorton, Cassidy Lynch
paris ii education center Troi Reliford
park university
Breanne Cowley, William Green, Emah McWilliams, Hani Ugas, Shawn White, Samantha Waltermate
rockhurst university Jenny Tsai, Quanisha Smith
MISSOURI VALLEY COLLEGE Michael Williams II
21
THE RACE TO THE END DANIEL CHEN AND KAINEN UTT
SENIOR
WHO WILL WIN?
At the end of a student’s high school career there are numerous achievements that they’ll take away from their experience: be it when they aced a test, got the date to prom, scored a point for their sports team, or was proclaimed an officer for a club. But there is an achievement in high school that can only be claimed by one student a year, the pinnacle honor of valedictorian. “It’s a status symbol. Everyone wants to be number one. It’s a tribute to someone wanting to be extremely successful and determined,” counselor Joel Wazac said. Due to privacy issues, the counseling office hasn’t released the names of the top two students up for the valedictorian position and they won’t announce the winner graduation practice on May 17. However, since their freshman year at PH, seniors Daniel Chen and Kainen Utt have been at the top of their class and most believe that it’ll be one of them on the stage at graduation.
Daniel Chen “My first AP class was AP Human Geography, as it is for a lot of people, and that class just seemed like an interesting class. After that, I kind of just went to whatever classes appealed to me or whichever classes come naturally. I really didn’t want a class where I would have to go every day and spend more time not doing anything than doing stuff because, for me, I want to make the most use of my time possible and get the most done I can. “There will be nights where I’ll be doing homework late at night and then be like… eh. Not that big of a deal, but also, at the same time, it’s me enjoying what I do anyways. I like taking new avenues, learning about new fields, that a lot of the time I find that the higher up you go, the more interesting things you find. “If being valedictorian is important to you then shoot for those AP classes, plan ahead, get your required classes out of the way as soon as possible so you have freedom in the end. But if what’s more important than the valedictorian spot is making the most of your high school experience, take what you love to do and just keep doing that, no matter what cost, regardless of what other people try to tell you to do. Take the classes that’ll give you the most opportunity to get the furthest in your field, your passion, as possible and then whatever reward you get will be a side effect and come naturally. “In the end, no matter what happens, I’ll be going to college and life moves on. It doesn’t really matter to me. I’ve always maintained that the recognition, the achievement, is about the learning and the process itself.
Kainen Utt “I took a lot of AP classes. Essentially, I just had to apply myself in all of my classes I’ve taken since freshman year. It was just something I knew I had to try. “I’d say that it’s both [something wanted and a side effect]. Going into high school, I totally saw [being valedictorian] as a goal. But it wasn’t something I necessarily had to have. It was just something I would have liked, and, as the years have gone on, I’ve seen it materialize in front of me as a result of my high school career. “Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. There’s nothing wrong with challenging yourself in academia, whether it’s taking hard classes, or trying harder, or applying yourself harder than you used to; that’s how you’re going to get better as a person. It’s going to be going outside your comfort zone and really attacking your goals. “To me, it’s more of a personal pride thing. I’ve worked hard these four years and it’s good to see it pay off in academic pursuits.”
To the art department, Thank you. Thank you for pushing me to be a better artist, and instilling in me the knowledge I now carry to my future. Jordan Tanner Dear Mr. Erneste, For the past four years you have said “Faith, you are my favorite student of all time.” Well Mr. Erneste you have been my favorite teacher of all time! I came into your class as a lost freshman who quickly learned math wasn’t my subject. But you taught me about persistence. You taught me about how character is what matters in life. You said I won’t remember your math grade but I will remember if you were honest. You always rooted for the underdog. You would always find a time to help me and worked with my schedule. You never lost your patience, even if I asked that question a hundred times. You were my cheerleader and my bodyguard. I remember one time last year. You saw some kid with his arm around me and said “don’t touch my daughter.” He didn’t talk to me after that but that’s okay... it is good someone was looking out for me! I will never forget your kindness Mr. Ernsete... but I will forget how to find X. Thank you, Faith Arendt Dear Mrs. Jones, It seems like just yesterday I was sitting in your classroom as a freshman learning all about the joys of math. It has been a great experience having you for more than one class throughout high school. I have not only learned about an important subject, but also about what it takes to be successful in school, and life in general. Thank you for being patient, understanding, and overall a great role model for every student. You embody what all of us should strive to be-a put-together person, but one who still lets loose every once in a while. I’ve enjoyed being your student and getting to know you over the years. Thanks for all the memories and great amounts of help! Erica Van Cleave Thank you to all the special ed teachers for talking with me. Thank you for all of your advice. Thank you for everything you have done for me. Jordan Dennis To Marlene and Dr. K, Thank you for allowing me to be so defiant on an (almost) daily basis! My time with you has been full of fun, laughs, and really good books. Hope to see you after graduation! Freya Medford
To the teachers of The Bunker (Social Studies Department), Thank you all for enriching my life and these past four years. I look to each and every one of you as mentors, role models, colleagues, and friends. Words cannot describe how much I appreciate you all sticking by me through laughter, frustration, and those dreaded AP terms. I love each and every one of you and consider you to be my heroes. Thank you again for always believing in me when no one else would and pushing me to be my best. Also, thanks for putting up with me in class. I know I can be a handful sometimes. I will never forget the wonderful life lessons, as well as the curriculum. I think I will miss interrupting your classes with pointed jokes and random questions the most. Oh, and never forget, Republicans rock! Thanks again. Your history protege, Tia Hernandez
SENIOR SALUTES
Ms. Racela, How could I sum up a year full of memories and laughs in your class? Some of my favorite memories of my senior year have taken place in your class. I have laughed, cried and laughed some more. You have taught me, not just about Spanish, but about life, growing up and being a big girl. I realize that I can be difficult and often frustrating, but you are my hero. With your gracefulness, patience and kind ways, you have no problem handling any situation. Your smile and bright, positive outlook turned my rougher mornings into my favorite hour of the day. Not to mention the courage you continually show me, especially when you faced your fear of giving blood. I look up to you in every way and I am lucky to have had you as a mentor. I think we both know that I will miss you more than words can say next year, but don’t fret; I will visit and call obnoxiously. I’m incredibly blessed to have called you a teacher and most importantly a friend. Thank you for the way that you have touched my life and my heart. I will never forget the time we spent together and the things you’ve taught me. You are an amazing teacher, but more importantly an amazing person. I hope I grow up to have half the class and compassion that you do. Much love, McKady Kellam
Beran’s final word...
T
his is the last issue of the Trojan completed by the senior staff, for them this is memorable because it is a sign off of a pinnacle of their high school career. For me, it is another moment I get to sit back and enjoy a well thought out, wonderfully written, maturely designed magazine that I had the privilege of being a part of. Journalism was once a career for me and it is such an honor to watch it become a passion of young students. For this group of seniors, it is truly that…a PASSION! Because they also link that light with talent, it makes my job easy. Camille – Have you have met someone and instantly knew he or she would change the world? I know it sounds trite, but it is true. I couldn’t even be angry when you took the taxi to the protest in Minneapolis (sorry mom and dad) because I knew you were following your heart and your journalistic duty, both of which I admire. You are everything I hope my daughter becomes... strong, creative, kind, intelligent, respectful… but most of all…passionate and understanding. Nick – Your growth professionally and personally has been inspiring to see. Watching you learn about yourself has taught me so much about myself. You have talent within yourself I am not sure you know exists…trusts your instincts and follow the “leading lines.” Zach – You have changed writing styles, hair styles, and length of facial hair, but one thing that will never change is your unique combination of childish sense of humor and mature sense of intellect. On the craziest day, I can always count on you to make me laugh. Sadie – I am so happy you found your “home” in 350. You have added so much to this room, to myparkhill.com and to the journalism department. Your strength, sense of humor, and commitment never ceases to impress me. JT – You came into unfamiliar territory and made it your own. I am so proud of your unique style and sense of commitment to the trade. You will make an amazing journalist and will be a great addition to the MIZZOU family. Claire – What a turn of events that led you to our staff and now you will forever be a “newsie’! I am so proud of your dedication to learning new things, being great at it, and being a true part of the 350 family. Your talents and sense of pride are what every parent hopes to see in their child. Brett – Oh the memories…in just one year. I hope you can say you have grown as a writer being in newspaper, I know I have grown as a teacher having you in class. Your intellect has challenged me, your humor has confused me, and your sense of being YOU is something I strive for every day. I have worked on several staffs, this year I have the honor of working for the greatest print and online magazine I have had in my 15 years of journalism. I have never laughed so hard, worried so little and breathed with such pride.