Avreen Kaur ‘28 and Erica Gregorie ‘28

Ryleigh Mix, a senior at Pennfield High School, is currently enrolled in the CACC Early Childhood Education program. She says the program is going very well and that she enjoys the environment. Mix hopes to work with children in the future, not as a teacher, but as a children’s therapist. Her interest in the field began through babysitting, which showed her how much she enjoys helping children grow and develop mentally. Although classroom placements have not yet been assigned, Mix shared that being around children brings out her inner child and strengthens her passion for the work. She finds both her CACC classes and her courses at Pennfield fairly easy, though she knows her future career may bring challenges. The hardest part of becoming a children’s therapist, she explained, will be handling emotions and listening to the difficult stories of the kids she hopes to help. She looks forward to making a positive impact on the children she works with.

Bella Gillson ‘27

Band members Stormie Rockwell and Jonathan Franks share their thoughts and feelings about this year so far and band class overall.

So far, Franks has been enjoying the band and is also having fun with his bandmates. He likes the new band director, Mr.Cavis, saying that he knows how to push them to be better people/musicians, and he has a drive to be an excellent band teacher. He joined because his sister was in the band, and hearing her play inspired him to want to achieve an equal or better level of sound. Franks likes to play swinging, fast-paced jazz songs better than marches. He also likes how the band brings people together. Even though it can be hard to know why you are in the class at times, he said the time shared with friends or concerts makes it all worth it. Lastly, Franks encourages others to join the band. 

Rockwell wanted to play the flute like her cousin had, but ended up playing brass. She said she likes the music and how much they have grown since they started playing.  Rockwell likes Mr. Cavis since he has connected well with her, and she feels he listens to what they need and want. She doesn't have a certain genre but enjoys playing old rock, such as the Beatles or Metallica. Rockwell likes the marching band so far and was excited to perform for Homecoming on Friday. Lastly, she says, “BAND IS A SPORT!”

Ashlynn McDaniel ‘29

Around a dozen students from the PHS class of 2029 have been accepted into the BCAMSC. Bradley Michael, Anabell Mares, and Jocelyn Holderman, three freshmen going to the Math and Science Center, claim that they all enjoy the center and the new learning opportunities that are available with their enrollment. Mares states that her favorite part of being at the center is the 25-minute break between classes and that she deeply appreciates the time to either work on the workload or to socialize with friends! Mares states that she is excited for the prayer group that occurs twice every week on Mondays and Fridays as well. Holderman agrees that she is excited for what the clubs hold for the future.

As far as scheduling goes, Michael explains the AB schedule as this: “On an A day, you go to your math class, and then to one of your other [alternating science] classes. On a B day, you again go to your math class, then to the other class you didn't go to on the A day.” It’s quite complicated in the beginning, students add, but they believe that incoming students will understand this way of scheduling after a few weeks. The only thing that the students do not enjoy about moving from class to class during that time is the 4 flights of stairs between all 3 floors, for it is very tiring for some. However, they all agree that the workload is a little intimidating as well. But, in the end, with all of the help from teachers and their extra time for academic support if need be, these scholars very much enjoy their student lives at the BCAMSC!

Ryleigh Mix ‘26 & Kylie Daghuer ‘26

Nick Kinzel, a male cheerleader, offers insight into what it’s like being part of a female-dominated sport. He explains that working alongside women has required a shift in mentality. Despite this, Kinzel emphasizes that he has felt nothing but welcome on the team. When asked about potential challenges, Kinzel initially anticipated facing criticism. However, he notes that he hasn't encountered any negativity recently, which has made his experience even more enjoyable. Kinzel's decision to join the cheerleading team was influenced by many of his friends, and he admits that he has had a lot of fun since becoming involved.

Jackson Beach, another male cheerleader, shares his thoughts on participating in a female-dominated sport. He acknowledges that the experience is different but notes that the women on the team have been incredibly welcoming, making his transition into the sport smooth and positive. So far, Beach has enjoyed his time on the team, particularly noting the physical benefits. He says he's been getting stronger, although he mentions that he still aims to improve his flexibility as he continues. When asked about what inspired him to join the team, Jackson credits his girlfriend and another male cheerleader, Jax, for encouraging him to join.

Avreen Kaur ‘28  Erica Gregorie ‘28

This year, Pennfield High School has welcomed several new students, including junior exchange student Till Rehwinkel and sophomore Noah LaBonte, who are both already making their mark.

Rehwinkel, who came to Pennfield from overseas, says he enjoys the school, especially the sports programs. “Sports are definitely my favorite part,” he shared. His favorite class so far is weightlifting, which connects with his passion for athletics. Rehwinkel currently plays soccer and is considering trying out for basketball later in the year. He’s also excelling in his classes and says the teachers have been welcoming and supportive. “I honestly really like the school year,” he said.

LaBonte, a transfer student from various private schools, says Pennfield has opened the door to more opportunities, both academically and socially. “The best thing about Pennfield is all the chances I get to make new friends and be surrounded by great staff and students,” LaBonte explained. He describes the teachers as funny, chill, disciplined, and caring. His favorite class is digital photography, where he gets to explore his creative side while working with a teacher he enjoys learning from. Outside of the classroom, LaBonte is interested in football and basketball.

Both Rehwinkel and LaBonte say they’ve already made friends and are feeling at home at Pennfield. With their positive attitudes and involvement in both academics and activities, they’re proving to be a great addition to the Panther community.