For many students at Selah High School, waking up before sunrise to make it to a 7:35 am class feels nearly impossible. Sleepy faces fill the hallways, yawns echo through first period, and focus is hard to maintain. While this early schedule might seem normal, research and real-world examples show that high schoolers perform better when they start later. Shifting Selah's start time to 8:35 am would improve student health, academic performance, and overall well-being.

According to the National Institutes of Health, Teenagers' brains are biologically wired to fall asleep and wake up later than younger kids or adults. Studies have proven that schools with later start times see higher test scores, better attendance, and improved focus in class. Lack of sleep directly affects memory, attention, and problem-solving skills that are necessary for success. 

Sleep deprivation doesn’t just make students tired, it also increases stress and anxiety. Many teens juggle school, sports, work, and family responsibilities, and a later start time could relive some of that pressure. Physically, more rest can also strengthen the immune system, lower the risk of injuries during sports, and improve mood. When students are healthier and happier, the entire school environment benefits.

Across the U.S, many districts have already moved to later start times with greater results. For example, according to npr.org, Seattle public schools changed their start time from 7:50 am to 8:45 am, and studies afterward showed students got about 34 more minutes of sleep each night on average and performed better in school. If it can work in a larger district like Seattle, it can definitely work in Selah. 

Starting Selah High School at 8:35 am would not just be about sleeping; it’s about mental health, student success, and safety. A one-hour delay could make a world of difference for our entire school community. 

On Thursday, the 14th, Selah High School hosted Scott Backovich, a professional speaker, leadership trainer, and student activities fanatic, who visited our school for a workshop in the auxiliary gym. Othello, Davis, and West Valley ASBs joined us as well for this experience. It was unlike any other regular school day. He explained how he was going to teach us leadership that he knew we had never thought of, and he explained how it would include empathy, inclusion, and teamwork.

It started with him introducing himself and making jokes that sounded like Disney trying to get with the times, and yes, it did work. He said he was in LA, and that explained everything to me. He explained how we were gonna go against each other (schools). He said that we could choose the level of difficulty and gave us examples of what those levels would be, 1–3 being friendship and 10 being full toxic. Also, the entire time it felt like a comedian talking to us, also doing some crowd work, he didn't feel real, he would be like “everyone say always,” and we'd do so, and he would do it every new talking point because it would keep us engaged, and he did a really good job at that, I was giggling my butt off.

After explaining that we'd go on to the gym floor to play a game that resembles Simon Says, he would say “pair,” and everyone would scramble trying to find someone to pair up with, or he would say “triangle,” and you'd have to find two other people to create a trio and so then he told us to do it another time and this time he said that the person we'd pair up with was our bestie and to discuss an icebreaker. After he told us to make a handshake because every friendship needs a handshake, after he asked the crowd if we needed more time to remember it, he said to go crazy and scramble as far as you can, and so we did, and then when we were done, he dropped his voice and said “okay now I need you to find them in 2 seconds and act like you guys haven't seen each other in years, perhaps, do your friendship handshake,” and so that's what everyone did, but the atmosphere was crazy, it felt like a zoo that got loose.

After this, he had us find another pair, and we became four, and then told us to become eight, and so we did, and we also needed some roles: the runner, the team leader, the spokesperson, and the writer, and the rest were supposed to put in input. Mind you, because the majority ended up picking level 10 toxicity, we had to be very defensive towards the other teams. He said that we can snitch all we want, the entire time the games/challenges were happening. After this, he had us choose our base (on the bleachers), so my team and I did. He had to sit in front of his screen to see all his talking points, and we had to have a team banner and name on which he made the “runners” get the supplies, and basically had us do 5 brainstorming activities, and in between, he explained what he wanted us to do. After everything, he asked us what we learned, and the majority of it was on how we as ASB clubs could plan more directed for people who don't feel they are connected or that they don't belong, and how we can accommodate their needs because everything being done now is made from ASB people for “group A,” he would call it. He would call “group B” for people who didn't participate in school spirit, so he taught us how we can be more inclusive and how to think more and plan more for group B. What I picked up that I really liked was empathy mapping, and it was constructive feedback.

Overall, the experience was fun, but we had to sit for such long times with no back support, and if we weren't we were doing the challenges, and most of them were brainstorming, so we were sitting criss-cross on the gym floor, which wasn't too comfortable. I think if I had the chance to do it again or if he came back, I would definitely recommend other people to try it out, but personally, I would not want to go through it again, but I'm not saying it was horrible. I'm saying it's a once-in-a-lifetime training that I feel everyone should have a chance to experience.

Christmas is one of the most loved and celebrated holidays in the United States and around the world. With the holidays just around the corner, one debate always seems to pop up: when is the right time to start decorating and celebrating Christmas?

Some people start celebrating as soon as Halloween ends, filling their homes with lights, trees, and Christmas music before November even begins. While their excitement is understandable, it can feel a bit too early since Thanksgiving hasn’t even arrived yet.

Celebrating Christmas after Thanksgiving makes the most sense for many reasons. First, it gives each holiday its own time to shine. Thanksgiving is about being grateful and spending time with family, and skipping over it too quickly can take away from that special feeling. Once Thanksgiving is over, it’s the perfect time to shift into the Christmas spirit and start decorating, baking, and gift shopping.

Waiting until after Thanksgiving also keeps the Christmas season feeling fresh and exciting. If you start too early, by the time December 25th arrives, the holiday magic can start to fade. Beginning the celebrations after Thanksgiving keeps the anticipation high and makes Christmas feel more meaningful when it finally arrives.

In the end, while it’s fun to look forward to the holidays, the best time to start celebrating Christmas is right after Thanksgiving. That way, you can fully enjoy both holidays, giving thanks first, and then diving into the joy and excitement of the Christmas season.

Did you experience what you wanted to? If you were to look at your photos, you had the chance to capture what you wanted from this trimester; if you didn’t end up taking photos, you have two other trimesters to make memories. Taking a look back to the start of this year, you probably expected a pretty easy first trimester, depending on your grade, but for most, it seems the exact opposite happened; we all went through the wringer. Whether it was emotionally, physically, or mentally, everyone struggled somewhat this trimester.

Stress played a big factor this trimester. If you were in 8th grade last year, your teachers stressed getting good grades because it affects your GPA in the long run. They weren’t wrong, but they definitely put a little too much stress on you. I hope in the end you're happy with the grades you got for the first trimester. Any students worried about your grades, communicate with your teachers or even your counselors; they are here to help you.

Another thing that students have struggled with this trimester is sports or after-school activities. At least half the student body had an after-school activity, whether it was school-sponsored or not. Some activities went longer than normal, and some got shorter. With the end of the football season and the end of the drama season, students can expect some more time to themselves or more time dedicated to homework after school.

School is emotionally taxing, so make sure you take care of yourself. For example, go to bed sooner if you can, try to eat better, exercise when you have the time, and if it's available, take a nice hot bath/shower; it'll make you feel better. If none of these seem tangible to you, which is understandable, try to get yourself a treat once in a while; it’ll make the dread of having to show up to school a little bit better.

To end, the first trimester is difficult because you put your all in, especially if it’s your first year, and you burn yourself out before you can reach the last two trimesters, so take your time while you can because there is still more yet to come.

The Selah community is a small town located in central Washington. It's known for being the apple juice capital of the world. It feels like everyone knows each other, and that's part of what makes it unique. The town is surrounded by orchards and farms. Agriculture is a big part of the community, and you can find apples, cherries, and hops growing all around the valley of Selah.

 There is a strong sense of pride, especially when it comes to the Schools and sports. The Selah Vikings, the high school known for its spirit for sports and its members, plays a big part in the community, where the teachers and staff all know every kid's name and will say hi to them in the hall. Selah High School's staff and students are amazing people and play one of the most impactful parts in the community.

Even though Selah isn't a big city, it has everything people need: restaurants, shops, parks, and great views of the mountains. It's the kind of place where people all interact with each other daily, and kids can safely walk around the town without worrying about anything. There are lots of local businesses like the Kings Row, Ace of Fades, River Canyon, and its own ice cream shop, Kings Scoop. 

The Selah community is small but one of the most genuine and good communities, filled with good people who all know each other and are more than likely friends.

Veterans Day is a special holiday we celebrate every year on November 11th to honor all the men and women who have served in the United States military. It's a day to thank all who have fought to protect our country; many schools hold assemblies and a moment of silence to show respect.

Some communities even hold parades for them with marches and flags to show how important it is to them. It's very important to remember that veterans have made many sacrifices for us, like spending long amounts of time away from family, some were injured while serving, and sadly, some have lost their lives to protect our country.

Veterans Day is to pay respect to those who served, but also to remember that freedom isn't free and that the people who have served deserve a lot of respect from all. And even small acts of kindness from communities show that we care.

November 11th is a day to show we are grateful for those who defend our freedom and celebrate the lives that have been lost to protect it. Veterans Day is more than just a holiday; it's a respect for all veterans. So remember, even a thank you for your service can show a veteran you care and are thankful for everything they've done for us and our country.

Are you celebrating their life? Día de Los Muertos is a Mexican holiday that takes place on November 1st and 2nd. Día de Los Muertos is used to celebrate the life of a dead family member. This holiday also celebrates pets that have died, but they show up on a separate day, that day being October 27th. 

When you celebrate Día de Los Muertos, you commonly make an ofrenda, which is a table that has photos of the dead family members along with their favorite dishes. Some of the most common dishes that are placed on ofrendas are Pan de Muerto, sugar skulls, tamales, and mole. You can also put their favorite drinks too. There is symbolism behind each dish; the corn husks on tamales are meant to symbolize a coffin, and the masa inside the tamale is used to represent the spirit. The food offerings you give are meant to provide sustenance for the spirits as they make their journey from the afterlife to visit their families.

When in the process of making an ofrenda, it is highly traditional to place marigolds on the graves of your loved ones and on the paths to the grave and the ofrenda. You also place marigolds on the ofrenda in bouquets, garlands, or just scattered around the ofrenda. Marigolds are used for their vibrant color and scent; it is hoped that marigolds will help lead deceased loved ones back to their families.

This holiday is also celebrated with parades, parties, dancing, music, and laughter. This is used to create a festive atmosphere of remembrance and celebration. Rather than focusing solely on the loss of life, this holiday emphasizes the importance of celebrating the lives that the deceased lived and the enduring connections with them. 

This Día de Los Muertos, one of our own staff members, Señora. Perez has made a public ofrenda for anyone to place a photo of their loved ones. It does not matter if you're not from that culture; Día de Los Muertos can be celebrated by anyone, no matter where or who you are. The celebration helps people in the grieving process by allowing for cultural expression and connection with their community and ancestors.

This year, our staff members were vulnerable enough to share stories about their loved ones who have died. The most common adjectives used to describe their beloved people in these stories were intelligent, strong, funny, honest, caring, sarcastic, loving, wild, and fun. If you were to look around, you could probably relate these traits to someone you know, but just because you can relate the adjectives to someone else doesn’t make anyone less special. 

Teacher Experiences:

• Mr. Gudino: Loved spending quality time with his family

• Mr. Blain: Loved watching his dad play in his rock band

• Mrs. Turcott: Loved spending time with her friend Michael Cooper, walking the field of Gettysburg while he made jokes about camels

• Mrs. Forbes: Loved getting ready to party with her friend Julie

• Señora. Perez: Loved her grandma, Catalina Barron Gonzalez, her memory, and her ability to tell a story in a manner that made you experience the story yourself.

To end, Día de Los Muertos is a holiday that is used to experience grief in a safe way while not tarnishing your good memories with sorrow, but instead with a celebration, so you'll never forget where you came from and who helped you get where you are now through sheer love and dedication. This Día de Los Muertos, don’t forget to put their photo on the ofrenda so they can come visit you.

Most schools provide free lunches for their students, but just because it's free doesn’t mean it's good. Some kids look forward to lunch every day, while others just eat it because they’re hungry.

It seems that most kids like the school lunches. According to Education Week, 55 percent of kids think school lunches are high quality, which means over half of students actually like what’s being served. 

Opinions really depend on what’s on the menu. As Caleb Q. says, “They’re okay.” Most kids would probably agree that the lunches aren’t bad, but they’re not amazing either could still definitely use a renewed version or some kind of small change to the food.

Some items, like pizza and chicken nuggets, are actually pretty good and something kids would eat even outside of school. Other meals don’t get as much love. Even though not every meal is a hit, it’s nice that schools provide food for students so no one has to go hungry.

It seems that students do enjoy most of the lunches provided for them, even if they’re not perfect, and some foods could be skipped. At the end of the day, free food that tastes decent is better than no food at all.

Graduation Rate 

A good thing about Selah is how many students graduate. As it says in the U.S News and World Report, around 94 to 95% of students here earn their diplomas, which is higher than the state average of about 84%. That means almost everyone who starts high school here finishes it, and that’s because most teachers, counselors, and staff actually care about helping.

Growth and Involvement

Selah High is about helping students grow and be independent. There are cool programs, like if you have a job, being able to work and have it count towards school. We also get time with our counselors to make sure our schedules fit what we want. It feels like the school wants every student to find their own way.

Academics Keep Improving

When it comes to academics, Selah is working to get better. As it states in the Niche school ranking, about 52% of students are proficient in reading, and around 27% in math. Those numbers aren't the best, but they're up from what they were. There's still room to grow, and it also means our teachers putting in the effort to help us catch up and push ourselves further is actually doing something. 

Selah High School and its community are a great place to learn and connect.

With Halloween just around the corner, stores are filling up with every candy imaginable, from chocolate bars to sour gummies. Every year, millions of people stock up for trick-or-treaters or prepare to fill their own bags with sweets. But among all the treats that hit the shelves, one question always comes up: Which candy truly stands out as the most popular choice on Halloween night?

There are countless types of candy, gummies, chocolates, sour treats, soft or hard, and everyone has their personal favorite. However, when October 31st arrives, one type of candy consistently sells out faster than the rest: chocolate. Last Halloween, chocolate sales made up a huge portion of the $7.4 billion spent on candy. Data from the National Confectioners Association shows that chocolate consistently ranks as the top-selling candy category for Halloween, representing about 72% of all candy spending in recent years.

But among all the chocolate options, which brand wins the hearts (and taste buds) of trick-or-treaters? Coming in third place is a tight race between Kit Kats and Snickers, two classics that are often neck and neck in popularity. In second place is the timeless favorite, M&M’s, with both regular and peanut varieties bringing in major sales every October. And finally, in first place, with little competition, is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Year after year, Reese’s continues to dominate candy aisles, earning the crown as the most popular Halloween candy.

So this Halloween, when you’re out trick or treating or passing out candy, keep an eye out for these sweet treats, the undisputed stars of spooky season!

If you’ve ever been on TikTok or anywhere online lately, you probably have seen millennials talking about “the Gen Z stare,” that blank, emotionless look we supposedly give instead of smiling or making small talk. They call us awkward, lazy, and claim we don't have “21st century skills,” but maybe they just don't get us.

The truth is, Gen Z grew up in a world that's constantly shifting. We’re used to change, chaos, and figuring things out ourselves, not posting Facebook updates about it. Sure, we might not feel the need to start every conversation or overshare our feelings, but that doesn't make us clueless. It just means we value peace over friendly performative friendliness, especially towards millennials and their “humor” and their skinny jeans.

Meanwhile, millennials are starting to sound a lot like the generation they used to complain about, that being Gen X. The “back in my day” logic, the constant criticism, and the weird obsession with blaming the younger generation for everything? 

So maybe instead of fighting over who's more “normal” or “the better generation,” both generations could chill a little. It's not that Gen Z doesn't care; we don't care about the same things. We’re not impressed by hustle culture or “adulting” jokes.

 We just want peace, stability, and people who actually mean what they say. We care about mental health, boundaries, and not wasting energy on stuff that doesn't matter. If that looks lazy to them, that's fine. We’re not changing it to make anyone else comfortable.

Are you actually you? Before you panic at the question, I’m asking, are you being authentically you? If you’re not, fix it. Everyone's life is too short for it to be wasted on a false persona.

Most likely, you make friends with like-minded people, which, while not bad in the long run, leads to an echo chamber of the same ideals or actions. These ideals, at a bigger scale, can lead to an increase in the desire to be the same or as normal as others. That’s why you perceive that you see a lot of people who look exactly the same.

What makes it worse is social media. Infinite access to different topics and opinions is good. Except that with it being such a saturated field, you end up seeing the same opinion or same style consistently because of the algorithm that is made to cater to your interests.

Another example is AI slop. Lots of people are using it because they don’t think that they are good enough to write or draw, but if you use a computer, you aren’t expressing yourself authentically. It doesn’t matter if it sucks; it matters if you made it. Bob Ross, a famous painter who used his platform to teach and spark interest in painting, once said, “Talent is a pursued interest. Anything you are willing to practice, you can do.”  There is no reason you shouldn’t be trying to create something using your own hands.

While school might make it difficult to be authentic, you can still try. It might feel hard at first, but it will get better. Everyone is too focused on trying to get through the school day to even truly remember what you wore or how your hair looked, but you’ll remember because you’ll feel truly good about yourself for once. 

Go out and be yourself. Use your hands to sculpt yourself a future that you're proud of. Experience life as you, and not someone you're not. There is still time.

Taylor Swift’s new Album, The Life Of A Showgirl, came out this October, and honestly, I’m not a fan. I usually like most of her songs and albums, but this one didn’t do it for me. It feels very flashy and overproduced, and it’s missing the real emotion that made her older albums good.

Most of the songs sound similar and kind of blend together. The lyrics talk a lot about Fame, lights, and performing. But it feels like she is just repeating old ideas. I liked albums like Folklore because they felt deeper and personal. This one sounds more like a performance than a story. 

I get that the “showgirl” theme is supposed to be dramatic and fun, but it makes the music feel fake instead of honest. There are a few songs that are okay, like “Ruin the Friendship” but overall, it’s not something I’d listen to again. 

I think Taylor’s really talented, but the Life Of A Showgirl just feels too safe and polished. It’s missing the heart and creativity that made her past albums stand out. For example, the song “Cardigan” had depth, meaning; she dug herself back into her past and made a song based on pain, loss, and identity. Her new album has none of that. 

In conclusion, I respect Taylor Swift for trying something new, but this album just doesn’t connect with me. It feels more like a performance than genuine art. And I personally prefer when her music feels real and emotional instead of flashy and staged. 

Almost every teen has a phone these days. In fact, Pew Research says around 95% of teens own one. The big debate is whether or not they should be allowed in school, so here are some different reasons from both sides.

Some students think yes. “I use my phone to look stuff up in class all the time,” said sophomore Caleb Soptich. Phones can be helpful for quick research, calculators, setting reminders for homework, or even for connecting with classmates for work after school.

On the other hand, phones can be a huge distraction. A 2022 study from Common Sense Media found that teens spend approximately 8 hours a day on screens, with a significant portion of that time occurring during school, despite the school day being only around 7 hours long. It’s no secret that many students are on TikTok or Snapchat when they’re supposed to be paying attention.

Some schools ban phones completely, putting them in a magnet-locked bag, while others only allow them at lunch. Students will keep finding ways to use them, no matter what rules there are against them.

Schools should let us have phones, but only at certain times, like breaks or if a teacher allows it. Banning them doesn’t work—phones aren’t going anywhere, so schools should figure out how to handle them with limitations for students.

Are you up and standing? When you’re at a pep assembly, you probably aren’t participating. You’re not the only one. Everyone has their reasons, but one of them is that you’re most likely not enjoying the assembly.

One of the bigger problems is the lack of engaging content. Understandably, this could be discouraging for our students who give it their all to demonstrate their skills and creativity, but this isn’t what we mean. We’re discussing the issue of which students will engage with it. For example, more student inclusion can add value to pep assemblies rather than dread.

Here are some student quotes to put some perspective on what we’re referring to. “The only fun part is when the kids are down there playing games.” “I don’t mind them, but it feels like they drag them out.” “It’s fun, but it’s kind of repetitive.”

To combat some of these problems, here are a few ideas that can be implemented by ASB or even the administration. Have a hype squad. The hype squad would be placed randomly in the bleachers. When there’s a part of the assembly that needs hype, all they have to do is cheer, because if there are enough people who are hyped, others might also get excited.

Another idea is we could hold votes for what students want to see or what they want to interact with. If we continue to just decide for them, then they’ll probably stay disinterested. We could also start some talk about incoming assemblies a few weeks in advance, so more people are aware, so it’s not sprung on them, because when that happens, students are annoyed and don’t want to go.

In conclusion, there are many ways that we can make assemblies better for students and teachers. From consulting students about their wants or their interests to actually providing what they asked for. It’ll take a while to implement, but it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be considered.

Do you remember when you were allowed to take your time on your work because you knew you’d have extra time in advisory?

Sadly, this is no longer a fact and is now something we can reminisce on. Our school has switched its schedule once again, leaving us with advisory only on Wednesday. This new schedule gives us more time in class, yes, but the old schedule allowed us to have more time to do work that we hadn’t finished.

The CDC states that a healthy way to cope with stress is by “connecting with others, talking with people about your concerns, and trying to do relaxing activities that you enjoy.” Advisory was that place. To quote a few students, “I wish we had Advisory right now, dude.” “I hate this new schedule so much.” “This is so stupid; I want to be in Advisory right now.” These quotes from students who wish to remain anonymous outline people's opinions about the new class schedule. 

In contrast, the engagement team has a different opinion, such as, “Advisory seems to have students all over the place, but only having it one day a week is nice for us.” Another opinion is, “It makes it matter more; last year we had Advisory for four days out of the week. You were supposed to be there to learn important skills, but everyone was all over and not where they were supposed to be. This year it counts more because it’s only one day out of the week, making you value it more,” said Mr. Steen. 

The original schedule allowed for student athletes and students in clubs to get their work done so they could meet the grade requirements for their activities. Many students at Selah High School have other commitments after school, but we can understand our staff's frustration with the constant reminders about where we are supposed to be. Advisory was a place to hang out with friends and relax, but from the faculty's perspective, we were using Advisory as a free period and not for the intended purpose.

In conclusion, Advisory is a key point in a student’s day, allowing for work to get done and new relationships to bloom. A suggestion would be to do a hybrid of the schedules, allowing students to have a place to flourish while not stressing out the staff.

As fall is approaching, many things begin to happen. Leaves begin to brown and fall off, temperatures drop, and pumpkin spice comes into season. Pumpkin spice has been storming the nation for many years now, with products ranging from pumpkin spice popcorn and tea to even hummus. We all enjoy this seasonal treat, but has it gone too far?

Pumpkin spice is the seasonal treat that people enjoy during fall, but recently it has gone out of hand with all sorts of pumpkin spice objects. On October 10, 2003, Starbucks launched the pumpkin spice latte, and it has since become a seasonal phenomenon, becoming one of the most popular drinks in Starbucks' history. You might be wondering what this drink has to do with anything. In recent years, the media has gone wild for the pumpkin spice latte, beginning the pumpkin spice craze across social media.

Recently, things have been getting out of hand with pumpkin spice yogurt, pumpkin spice spam, slurpees, ramen noodles, and even cat litter. These products are going too far. The idea is fun, but this is just growing the problem year by year. Who knows what we will see this year?

Pumpkin spice is a wonderful fall taste, and it is great that companies can spice up the season with this seasoning. But not everything needs to be pumpkin spice. At the end of the day, this flavor should be enjoyed as a special treat of the season, not stretched into every product on the shelf.

Brain Rot: Why Teens Can’t Stop Watching

Brain rot is dumb and not funny. You may have been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram and found yourself watching something so random and unusual that you can’t look away.  If so, you have experienced Brain rot.

Brain rot is just videos with strange edits that are very odd. There are weird AI videos of fruits, Chimpanzini Bananini, and even older trends like Skibidi Toilet, which younger children like. 

A student, Caleb Quantrille, has said, "I don’t like that my little brother likes Skibidi toilet; it's very annoying".

Brain rot has become a comfort for teens who want to think about something silly or laugh at something, and for even younger children who find the nonsense amusing. According to The Rise of Brain Rot and the Decline of the Teenage Mind by the Mindwood Argus, the term "brain rot" got so big that Oxford University Press picked it as the Word of the Year in 2024, since teens use it jokingly to describe the content that they watch.

Why Teens Think It’s Funny.

The reason brain rot is funny is that it’s so overstimulating and dumb. The fast cuts and distorted visuals overload your attention span, and that chaos is the joke. High schoolers who scroll TikTok and Instagram all day find it funnier the less it makes sense. Some statistics from ACT Youth show the percentage of social media use by kids and teens: TikTok (63%), Snapchat (60%), Instagram (59%), Facebook (33%), and Discord (28%). Daily, a majority of teens visit YouTube (71%), TikTok (58%), and Snapchat (51%), with Instagram at (47%).

It feels different from regular content because there are no rules, and that unpredictability makes it entertaining. That's why kids and teens like it so much. Calling a video “brain rot” is almost like a compliment.

High school is one of the most important, fun, and exciting years of your life, but it can also be a bit overwhelming sometimes. Between your classes, extracurriculars, friendships, and planning for the future in the real world, it’s easy to feel stressed or worried about high school. But don’t worry! Here are some helpful tips to navigate through high school and make the most of these important years.

1. Stay Organized

To stay organized and keep track of schoolwork, use a planner or digital calendar to monitor assignments, tests, and activities. Breaking tasks into smaller steps can help avoid last minute work and can also reduce stress and help keep on track with everything.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely

Balancing schoolwork, hobbies, and social life can be a bit difficult, but also be very helpful. It's also best if you can manage your time because time management is also important in the real world. Prioritize what’s important first, like homework, chores, and then set aside the stuff you want to do, like hanging out with friends or relaxing.

3. Ask for Help When Needed

Don’t be afraid to reach out to teachers, counselors, or friends if you’re struggling. Everyone needs support sometimes, and there are people ready to help you succeed in anything you want to succeed in. There will always be someone willing to help you.

4. Get Involved

Join clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities that interest you. This is a great way to meet new friends and build social skills. Social skills are going to be very important in the real world if you want a good job.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy, and stay active. Your mental and physical health are very important keys to staying focused and motivated to do your school work, and also if you're doing any sports.

6. Stay True to Yourself

High school can come with peer pressure, but remember who you are and what you value. So be yourself and only surround yourself with positive people who will like you for you, and make the right friends and decisions because who you hang out with is who you become.

 7. Plan for the Future, But Don’t Stress Too Much

It’s good to think about college or careers, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Just focus on school work, working hard, and don't fall off. All the hard work will pay off.

Recently, SHS introduced a new reward system called Minga. Although it has the potential to succeed, many problems have emerged; such as students’ feeling rushed by short hall passes, or even teachers’ opting out of features entirely.

Minga is an app that students can download to see news, make hall passes, and earn rewards. The ‘points’ are an alternative for Thor Tickets and are rewarded for good behavior and can be redeemed for items like an off-campus lunch and snacks. Minga also includes a badge system that gives students special permissions such as leaving early for Celebrate Success or being able to leave for Running Start. Hall passes are another feature included in Minga that allows students to create passes so staff can acknowledge these students with a pass can be in the halls until it expires. 

As a student, Minga feels confusing to explore and locate specific items. For example, if a student is looking for their praises (points), it can be difficult to find due to a strange layout and or naming scheme. While the system works, students are having issues with certain aspects. Students presenting concerns such as ‘Hall passes’ or ‘Badges’ were made present. These problems occur because of a confusing design and layout for students unfamiliar with similar platforms. Students expressed concern that the hall pass time is too short under certain circumstances. For most reasons, a hall pass has a timer of seven minutes, which often causes students to feel rushed to come back and cancel it before the pass expires. 

The badge system is another major issue. A sticker normally appears above a student’s ID but depending on the type of badge it may not display. For example, during the previous ‘Celebrate Success’ students noticed that their ID wasn’t displaying their badge to leave early; this left students uncertain if they could leave regardless of meeting the requirements.

While most teachers love the new system, certain teachers face difficulty.  problems emerged that stem from different concerns with the same problems students face. In an interview with one teacher, the points system was brought up and although it seems promising; the time it takes to input information causes various teachers to neglect giving out the points. The teacher had concerns stating, “that takes way too long” as they would have to disrupt their class to hand one out; whereas they noted how “Handing out Thor tickets was extremely simple and quick.”

In conclusion, Minga has potential to help with student management. Although most features prioritize ease of use, optimization of Minga could prove to create significant benefits. With some changes, Minga could create a platform students’ would be eager to engage with.

While balancing academics, sports, and competitive dance can be a daunting task, for Maci, it's just another day. Maci is embarking on her fourth year as a member of the SHS dance team where she is now a captain. Her final season on the team is bound to be filled with success and celebration. 

Maci comes from generations of dancers and was born into the environment since her mother and grandmother own a dance studio. She followed in her family's footsteps and started dancing at the age of two.  Maci says that she uses dancing to cope; she loves dancing because it's a good way to express her emotions. 

When she talks about the difficulty of being a dancer, she says that there is a lot of physical strain and mental exhaustion, which anyone can understand. For her, there is a worrying factor about doing well during a performance because she feels people will be judgemental if she doesn't perform her best. 

Maci is involved with the competitive dance team at SHS, which is separate from the team that performs at games and assemblies. Being on the competitive dance team for SHS means more practice and hard work. This team is a selected few who go and compete for awards and if they score high enough, can compete at state. For the upcoming SHS comp season, Maci said, “There is a great set of girls for the team," and hopes they do make it to state.

While being involved in dance at SHS, Maci also dances for Footlights Dance Studio which is an outside-of-school competitive dance team where she competes as well. This means practicing every day of the week aside from Fridays. Maci puts hours of effort into dancing and it all shows through when she's performing. Maci is constantly busy with practice, games, and performances so when she has even the smallest bit of free time she enjoys reading and hanging out with friends.

As Maci enters her final season, she sees great things coming for the team and is surrounded by people who are like a second family. Maci sees dancing in her future and hopes to dance for UW. 

Balancing academics and athletics is more difficult than it may seem, but for Keaton Pitzer, it’s just another day. As a standout Wide receiver on the football field and starting Center Fielder on the diamond, Keaton has shown incredible versatility that sets him apart. 

Keaton Pitzer, also known as “KP,” fell in love with sports at a very young age. Growing up, he was a huge fan of the Seattle Mariners, Seahawks, and Washington State Cougars. As he watched these sports, his passion for them grew, and he knew he wanted to be as good as the players he was watching. Some of his hobbies include lifting, golfing, and hanging out with his friends. 

While maintaining a 3.8 GPA at Selah High School, Keaton is also a captain of the football team. After earning 2nd team all-conference honors as a junior last year, he was not satisfied as the Vikings only won two games. Pitzer spent all summer refining his skills and it showed in the season opener against Quincy where he hauled in 6 receptions for 149 yards and scored three touchdowns en route to the Viking's 59-0 victory. Keaton has found the endzone four times in the first five games of his senior season.

As a captain of the Selah Vikings football squad, KP has shown incredible leadership throughout the first half of the season and is one of the most dedicated on the team. So far this year he has proved that he is one of the best wide receivers in the CWAC as he is 3rd in the conference in receiving yards. After high school, he has the option to continue playing football at the next level as he received his first offer this past summer from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.

All in all, Keaton is a great student and arguably an even better athlete. He looks forward to seeing how the season pans out for both football and baseball.

The world of sports often comes with a thrilling environment. The enthusiasm and encouragement surrounding sports at SHS comes with a pair of pom-poms. Turning the attention to SHS cheer captain Aly Steltz, a senior on the team. 

Aly Steltz, affectionately known as "Stelly,” has been on the team since her freshman year. She found her love of cheerleading when she was six years old and attended football games with her father; watching the cheerleaders on the sidelines, she instantly knew she wanted to be like them. Her passion for the sport grew when joining the SHS team. 

Aly enjoys cheering because it makes her feel more involved at SHS, and she finds it exciting. She says her favorite part about being a cheerleader is having little kids look up to her and feeling like she has a role in the school. With the little extra time Aly has, she enjoys hanging out with her friends.

Aly was co-captain of the team last year, and she felt it was stressful. However, this year, with Macy Writer and Avery Goetz as the other two captains, she feels that their help makes it much less stressful. Every year when new cheerleaders join the team, she is eager to see what they will accomplish and how they will progress through the season. Additionally, with the new season came a new coach, and she thinks that coach Vereniz Delgado is a breath of fresh air and very understanding. “It's good to see her in the role,” Aly said. Aly, now in her senior year, has a bright season ahead of her and a team that will support her the whole way.

Note from the authors:

In recent weeks, the students here at Selah High School have been treated to a masterclass in creativity by the district’s nutrition staff. Lunch periods have seen numerous new dishes along with the beloved classics of lunch antiquity. In reflection on these changes, the Viking Voice is proud to bring a weeklong school lunch review to its loyal readers. Bon Appétit!

Monday, March 18: Cowboy Burger

Chad  8.5/10: The Cowboy Burger: where juicy beef, smoky ham, melting cheese, and a crunchy onion ring come together for a flavor rodeo in your mouth. It’s like the Wild West had a showdown on your taste buds. I liked the combination of everything including the little bit of barbeque sauce. The new item on the menu got an 8.5 from me. The flavors were excellent but it could have used more barbeque sauce.

Noah 7.7/10: Sheer curiosity persuaded my venture into the unknown during second lunch today. This venture took my tastebuds to America’s historic southwest via the lunch team’s new Cowboy Burger. I was impressed by the complex palette presented with the beef patty, ham, onion ring, sharp cheddar, and barbecue sauce. My only regret in my choice was that I didn’t add any jalapenos. Overall, this new item got a 7.7 from me because it had great flavor, but could use more onion rings and sauce.

Tuesday, March 19: Spicy Chickenwich / Teriyaki Dippers & Rice

Chad 7.5: After devouring my Spicy Chickenwich, I could see smoke coming out of my ears. I felt like I was auditioning for a role in a fire-breathing dragon movie. Thankfully, my taste buds were the only casualties. The Spicy Chickenwich packs a spicy punch with its perfectly seasoned crispy chicken and fiery breading,  leaving me wanting more after every bite. The Spicy Chickenwich is a classic that I will always pick over other options when getting lunch 7.5/10.

Noah 7.2/10: Today Selah High School saw a classic lunch lineup. The Spicy Chickenwich is a safe option that I’m rather fond of. I had the Teriyaki Dippers and Rice, a meal I remember having in elementary school when they were called beef bites. The portion sizes are always good with this dish and the rice:meat: sauce ratio was solid. I would’ve liked to see some more variety in the fruit options today. Overall, it's a decent Tuesday roster.

Wednesday, March 20: Bánh mì Sandwich / Chickenwich

Chad 9.5: Today, I tried the Chickenwich, It was amazing. This sandwich was as straightforward as it gets,  just two slices of bread embracing a juicy piece of chicken. No fancy toppings, no complicated sauces just pure chicken goodness. With my first bite, I was greeted by the crispy and juicy chicken, each mouthful showcased the quality of the chicken. This item got a 9.5 from me because of its great flavor. 

Noah 9/10: Never in my short career as a food reporter have I had to communicate such raw emotions as I dealt with during lunch today. We got the high-quality chicken patties, which is always a pleasure. More importantly, today saw the dawn of the Bánh mì Sandwich, which ended up being a delightful concoction of new flavors. The savory chicken was expertly contrasted by a host of light greens and carrots. This alone would’ve made a good sandwich, but the dagger was the sauce topping it off. I was extremely impressed with the consistent quality of options today and I look forward to tomorrow’s menu.

Thursday, March 21: Super Nachos / Fishwich

Chad 6.5: Nachos are the friends who add flavors to every occasion. These had plenty of cheese but lacked in quantity and variety of other toppings. They tasted good but could have used more toppings like sour cream or salsa. The crunchiness was spot on though. A very classic enjoyable lunch item, but could have been better. 6.5 from me.

Noah 5.8/10: I don’t have many grandiose words or even much of an introduction for today. I’d like to disclose that I strongly believe nachos are good and a strong second option for lunch, but they can’t perform as the chef’s special. I like the idea of more toppings or a more plentiful nacho bar. I don’t mind the fish sandwiches, but I couldn’t get any tartar out of the container and they seem to get squished more often than their chicken counterparts. I’m not disappointed in today’s lunch, but it’s competing in a week full of some impressive lineups and it just didn’t stack up.

Friday, March 22: Pulled Pork Burrito

Chad (7/10): This burrito brings a decent amount of game to the table. Imagine tender shreds of pulled pork, not overly dry wrapped snugly in a tortilla. It's the kind of burrito you’d grab on a lazy Sunday afternoon when you’re not looking for a fancy meal to satisfy your cravings. It delivers a decent flavor punch.  While it won’t blow your socks off, it’s a reliable option for a satisfying meal. A decent meal for lunch. 7/10 from me.

Noah 6.8/10: Friday saw the last lunch of an interesting weekly menu. Today I tried the pulled pork burrito for the first time. The burrito was pretty filling and had a good meat-to-rice/bean ratio, but I think some sort of taco sauce could’ve taken this dish to the next level. I’ve had the grilled cheese before and the cheese is questionable but I enjoyed it with the tomato sauce on the side. No home runs in the lineup today, but some solid choices to round out the week.

Sleep experts advise individuals should get at least eight hours of sleep, however, teenagers stay up for hours either on social media or playing video games knowing they have school the next day. Some students have other responsibilities such as sports, extra-curricular activities, and jobs which cut into the amount of time for them to get enough sleep. 

The use of social media like TikTok or Instagram, has profoundly contributed to the youth's lack of sleep. Teens regularly use casual scrolling as a technique to wind their brains down. Many times, this is counterproductive as they end up doing this for hours without realizing it. 

These habits cut into how much time teenagers sleep which is detrimental to them. 

Nationwide Children’s Hospital states that the average teen gets around only 7 hours of sleep, this is a far cry from the recommended 9-10 hours of sleep (John Hopkins).  

Too little sleep will always be a problem in modern society. Teens will inevitably spend hours on end scrolling on social media living vicariously through networking sites like Instagram. Extracurriculars will also contribute to the decline of sleep among the youth; time management is a skill that few teens will exercise and will choose to spend time on social media, rather than complete their work promptly, which will inevitably lead to a lack of sleep. 

“I have enough time to finish it tomorrow.” The cliche argument is often monologued to ourselves to avoid the temporary fear of spending time falling short of expectations and possible failure. Procrastination may seem harmless, but being unaware of the long-term consequences and consistently failing to realize that stress originates from the habit. 

To understand this common phenomenon, there must be an understanding of the science behind it. According to the article Race to Cure, “The limbic system, also known as the paleomammalian brain, is one of the brain’s developed components. Its processes are mostly automatic…The prefrontal cortex is younger and, hence is a somewhat less powerful part of the brain. This region is responsible for complex behavior planning, personality expression, and decision-making.” Given the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, it becomes clear that procrastination occurs when challenged by an uncomfortable task.

Unfortunately, younger individuals are much more likely to fall into a cycle of procrastination. This statistic was shown in a study conducted by The National Library of Medicine that included people from ages 14 through 29, “As reported by McCrae, conscientiousness has increased with advancing age, a personality trait which is strongly negatively associated with procrastination.” After the previous study, it was concluded that prefrontal cortex development plays an important role in overcoming procrastination.

With the concern and uncertainty of breaking this self-sabotaging habit, there are solutions to overcome it. Based on the article Putting People First in Mental Health, “Sometimes we procrastinate when we feel overwhelmed. If you’ve been procrastinating a specific project because it feels like “too much,” make a plan.” Creating a plan can not only organize any project or task but also help focus and concentrate on one step at a time instead of being overwhelmed by the whole project at once.

While procrastination will always be an epidemic spreading through the youth, it is evident that delaying and putting a task or project off to the side jeopardizes not only your academic performance but also your mental health, future opportunities, and time management skills. Being able to confront this longing fear and taking action is the best solution to this self-destructive habit that eventually stems into the root of constant stress and repeating cycles.

Many children complain they have no money and can't get a job. This is not true, multiple outlets allow young adults to make money.  Every student should get a job to teach them fundamental skills such as time management and responsibility.  Young teens have many opportunities to get experience and make money.

One place where teens can look to get jobs is in athletics where they are passionate and or have expertise.  One example is the White Pass ski area; here,  young people can get a job as a ski or snowboard cadet (an instructor's assistant). Cadets are responsible for helping students get ready for their first lesson. This can include helping students put on skis, supervise young children, and even demonstrations.  

Another job that young people can do is landscaping. While yard work might not be glamorous, it can be a valuable lesson in entrepreneurship. Like entrepreneurs, this enables students to work as they please and set their own working schedules. Furthermore, it teaches real-world skills such as developing working relationships with clients, and sales skills. 

Many young people also find jobs working in the food industry. Working in jobs like the service industry develops valuable communication skills, and fosters a community of teamwork and collaboration. While not all food chains hire under 16, in Selah, Kings Row does.

In conclusion, working at a young age teaches valuable skills that have lifelong implications. Whether it is doing yard work, waiting tables, or teaching young people to ski, each and every job has a valuable skill that can be learned and applied throughout your life. 

The nature vs nurture debate has been a longstanding discussion in the fields of psychology, sociology, and biology. This debate revolves around the question of whether human behavior and traits are primarily shaped by natural, biological factors (nature) or by external influences and experience (nurture). 

One side argues that genetic predispositions play a large role in shaping human characteristics. Our genes, inherited from our parents, are the blueprint for various physical and psychological traits. Studies on twins reared part and adoption research emphasize the impact of genetics on traits such as intelligence, temperament, and certain personality traits.  

On the other hand, supporters of the nurture perspective highlight the significance of environmental factors in molding human behavior. Social, cultural, and familial influences can shape an individual’s values, beliefs, and behaviors. Children raised in different environments often show diverse personalities, showing the powerful role of external experiences.

Developmental psychologists understand that there are crucial times in human growth when our genes and the things around us have a big impact. The idea of flexibility shows how our brains and actions can change and adjust. This shows that both our natural traits and the experiences we have help us learn, develop, and handle different situations.

The nature vs. nurture debate remains a captivating exploration of human development. The contrast between genetics and environmental influences is gradually evolving into a distinct understanding of its complicated interactions. Rather than viewing nature and nurture as opposing forces, it is clear that they work together to shape human behavior and identity. “In certain circumstances, nature can take president over nurture and vice versa” (Psychology Teach Mr. Tamblyn). Embracing the complexity of this allows for more comprehension of what makes us human. 

While the freedom to protest is a right granted by the Constitution's First Amendment, how many individuals take advantage of this right? Over the last few decades, there has been a constant trend of individuals worldwide becoming more politically active. Whether it is advocating for social and racial justice, or advocating for environmental issues, one thing is for certain, there has been a constant rise in younger generations fighting for prominent causes.

 Gen Z uses their voice on social media to push for systematic changes in social injustices. COVID-19 could account for the rise of online political engagement since the youth group turned to social media during this time allowing them to access, share, and spread information. In 2020, the inequality towards the Black community became publicized and swept the TikTok app creating a place for users of color to be heard. The videos under the tag #blacklivesmatter currently have 37.2B views. With information spreading like wildfire, users felt enraged by the discrimination taking place in this day and age and took to the streets to protest. 

This awareness among the youth contributed to the 11% increase in youth votes cast from the 2016 to 2020 election cycle. This stark increase in voter turnout highlights the advocacy for social movement among the youth. Social awareness surrounding a particular topic leads to widespread espousal, in the United States, we champion change by voting. 

Exposure to social issues has grown exponentially due to social media. It is the influence of the rise in Generation Z paving the way for positive change, signaling a promising era of activism and inclusivity.  As this generation continues to challenge norms and push boundaries, their dedication to creating a more equitable society serves as a role model for future generations to come.

Rod Wave is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He was born on August 27, 1999, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Rod gained popularity with his emotional and introspective music, often touching on themes of pain, struggle, and personal growth. His debut album, “Ghetto Gospel,” released in 2019, received critical acclaim and established him as a rising star in the rap industry. With his unique voice and heartfelt lyrics, Rod Wave continues to captivate audiences with his music.

Rod Wave’s musical style can be described as a blend of hip-hop, rap, and R&B. He has a distinctive melodic approach to his music, often incorporating soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Rod's songs often touch on personal experiences, struggles, and emotions, creating a deep and introspective vibe. His music resonates with many listeners due to its raw and honest nature. Whether he's rapping or singing, Rod Waves's music has a unique and captivating sound that draws you in.

Rod Wave has released several popular songs, but some of his most well-known tracks include “Heart on Ice,” “Rags2Riches,” “Pray 4 Love,” “Street Runner,” and “Girl of My Dreams.” These songs showcase Rod's emotional and introspective style, with powerful lyrics and soulful melodies.

Two substitutes from Selah High School, Jeff Kent, and Kelly Iverson, were interviewed about what it's like to be a substitute at SHS. Kent substitutes for art, while Iverson substitutes for digital media.

They were both asked what made them want to be a sub. Their responses were similar in that they both said they missed teaching, and it allowed them to make some extra money. However, their responses are a little different in that Mrs. Iverson said she likes teaching and misses being in the classroom with students, while Mr. Kent said it was a good way to stay involved with teaching, but liked that he could say no if asked to sub.

When asked about the school, they both had positive remarks. Mrs. Iverson said it’s a good school and she likes subbing here more than in middle school. She also said that the office staff and students are easy to work with and very kind. Mr. Kent said that he also likes the staff and working with students, but he also really likes working in the art room because he feels like he can genuinely help students 

When asked how long they had been subbing for SHS, Mr. Kent said he’s been working here for 5 years, while Mrs. Iverson said she has been subbing since the beginning of this school year.

Schools typically like to imagine that their halls are free of inappropriate behavior, but many students would disagree. 

I have witnessed students fighting in classes, in lunchrooms, grabbing each other by the crotch in the hallways, shaming each other’s weight, and joking about the use of racial slurs. I have been purposefully deadnamed and misgendered, told that nobody listens to me, told that nobody wants to hear me talk, laughed at, called names, had things thrown at me, and even when people are kind, they act as if it’s out of pity.

The bullying problem in this school cannot be solved by putting up signs that say ‘Don’t bully.’ Telling bad people ‘don’t be bad’ will not make them stop being bad, for one simple fact: they do not realize they are bad people.

People seem to overlook the fact that all people are people, no matter what adjectives they have. Bad people are still people. If someone thinks you are a bad person, you’d almost definitely disagree with them, or tell them that you’re at least trying your best. Because bad is an adjective, and by virtue is subjective.

Every adjective- including that every- is subjective. You might think adjectives are objective. This means the objectivity of adjectives is subjective. But while I could go on for hours and pages about subjectivity and objectivity and adjectivity (not a word) and eventually delve into etymology, I could also show you the point.

No matter what atrocities people commit, they are still people. Every massacre, from 9/11 to the Holocaust to the creation of the atomic bomb, was caused by people who thought they were doing the right thing.

This doesn’t mean that they WERE! You get to choose your own morals, your own priorities, your own definitions of right and wrong. But the point is that everyone has their own definitions!

Bullies don’t think that they’re bullying. They think that they’re giving people what they deserve. It’s not a desire to be a bad person that fuels bad behavior, it’s a fundamental misunderstanding of what constitutes bad behavior. If you want people to have morals that align with your own, don’t just tell them ‘be good! Do it right!’ because, from their perspective, they already are.

Tell them how. And to make them listen, you have to punish them for doing it wrong.

Peer pressure has existed throughout history and remains a powerful force influencing an individual's behaviors and decisions. It refers to the impact and influence that peers, or other people of the same age or social group have on each other. By understanding the dynamics of peer pressure, people can better navigate its influence and make better choices.

Peer pressure can manifest in both positive and negative ways. While it is often associated with negative outcomes, positive peer pressure can encourage individuals to make healthier choices. For example, a group of friends who engage in physical activity can motivate one another to live healthier lives. It often arises from the desire to conform to social norms and fit in with a particular group. Conformity can be a powerful force, pushing individuals to adopt the behaviors, attitudes, and values of their peers, even if it conflicts with their own beliefs.

Adolescence is when peer pressure is most influential as individuals strive to establish their identities. Adopting the interests and values of their peers results in altered individual development. Peer pressure also plays a crucial role in socialization. It helps individuals build bonds and a sense of belonging. These relationships can be both supportive and hurtful, depending on the nature of the group and the behaviors they encourage. Negative peer pressure can lead to risky behaviors such as substance abuse, misconduct, and bullying. The desire to conform and gain acceptance within a group can override one's better judgment, contributing to serious consequences.

Developing self-awareness is crucial for resisting negative peer pressure. When individuals understand their own values and priorities, they are better equipped to make decisions that are true to themselves. Being assertive and communicating one's feelings and boundaries are essential for managing peer pressure. It allows individuals to express their perspectives and assert their independence without damaging their relationships. Surrounding themselves with friends and peers who promote healthy behaviors and support personal growth can help avert the negative effects of peer pressure.

Peer pressure is a dangerous concept that influences our choices, behavior, and identity. Its impact varies, depending on whether it is positive or negative peer pressure. By understanding its mechanisms and learning to manage or resist it, individuals can apply the positive aspects of other's influence and shield themselves from its effects. It delineates the moral and ethical boundary between positive and negative influences from one's peers. With this in mind, how is society to draw this obscure ethical line? What constitutes positive or negative pressure? Would it be the legality, the morality, or possibly societal norms? At the heart of this question lies the moral and ethical distinction, which rests at the intersection of individual autonomy and collective influence.

In the exciting realm of high school sports, there’s a palpable enthusiasm that comes with each new season, and it’s no different at SHS. As we gear up for another thrilling year of spirited athleticism, we’ve decided to turn our attention to the fresh faces who will be making a significant impact on their respective teams. Joining this year's cheerleading team is Khloe Heater, an accomplished gymnast with an expertise in tricks and flying.

Khloe, or affectionately known as ”Coco Puffs,” journey into cheerleading was sparked by a friend's belief in her potential, and she certainly hasn't looked back. While still actively involved in competitive gymnastics, she embraced the opportunity to join the SHS cheer team and bring her skills to the squad. As a newcomer, Khloe is in the process of acclimating to the cheerleading world, and her fresh perspective promises to inject new energy into the team. Even as a freshman, her dedication to continuous improvement is evident. Khloe's commitment to cheerleading and gymnastics showcases her determination and passion for athleticism.

New to the team, Khloe was immediately thrown into flying. While she stated the stunts were not easy, Khloe said that she never had to worry about messing up. All of her teammates were extremely supportive and encouraging making her feel a lot less tense and nervous. “The team creates a positive atmosphere, making relaxing and having fun much easier,” said Khloe. Initially, Khloe viewed cheer as an obligation, but thanks to her supportive teammates and coaches, practice sessions have transformed into something she eagerly anticipates.

When Khloe talked about practices, she mentioned that cheer sessions usually follow a set pattern. They start with warm-up stretches, end with a circle where everyone shares something nice about another person, and finish up with an exciting cheer. Khloe stated that having a good connection with all of her teammates is imperative for a good performance. Having close relationships with everyone on the team promotes comfortability when performing such dangerous stunts. She said that the few times she performed were nerve-racking at first, but everyone's support and subtle encouragement gave her a boost of confidence. 

Initially, Khloe's decision to join the cheer team was influenced by a friend's suggestion that she would excel in it. However, she soon discovered its profound significance in her life. Exceptional coaches and supportive teammates have made a significant impact, uplifting everyone's spirits within the SHS cheer team. Khloe, now thriving as a cheerleader, has not only found her passion, but a community that has become like a second family to her. 

The world is in a constant state of evolution, with new technology emerging every year. Technology has allowed students to obtain unprecedented access to information and with it, new ways to learn. However, it is not without its downsides.

One major downside is how technology can be used to cheat. ChatGPT, while it can be an effective study tool when used properly, can also be used to complete assignments entirely, promoting academic dishonesty and plagiarism. Another way technology has aided in cheating is the ability to send answers through texts or other forms of technology-based communication. 

The introduction of technology allows improved communication with all types of different people, this leads to more time being spent on devices, and in turn, stimulation of the brain, which can cause a lack of sleep, anxiety, and depression. If the brain is being over-stimulated, it can cause the user to feel overwhelmed, and exhausted.

According to the article, “How Does Technology Affect Mental Health?” published by Bradley University, “While the internet can be an agent for good in terms of education and the strengthening of interpersonal relationships, internet addiction can be problematic because it can negatively impact academic success and one’s ability to communicate effectively in person.” This further demonstrates how the usage of technology can be detrimental to teens.

While technology is crucial in day to day functioning of the modern world, it has not come without its drawbacks. For example, technology is instrumental to the function of modern education, however, it has also harbored and encouraged academic dishonesty and cheating. With this in mind, it is imperative that society take action to correct this gross miscarriage of academia and embrace solutions that simultaneously aid in student learning while limiting academic deception.

Over the last 7 years, electric cars have been on a consistent uprise in the vehicle market. Today, almost all major car manufacturers, from Nissan to Ford, manufacture at least one electric car model. Even a few exclusively electric car companies have taken shape, the most popular of which is Tesla. For those living under a rock, Tesla is an exclusively electric vehicle manufacturer founded by Elon Musk. Now, one of Tesla’s car models, the Model Y, is the best-selling car in America, the first fully electric vehicle to achieve such a title. Being that they are marketed as  “Zero-Emission,” many have switched from their gas-guzzling cars to what they perceive as an Eco-Friendly vehicle. That, however, is not entirely the case.

Offset emissions: 

Since the first lightbulb was installed, electricity has been produced primarily by burning fossil fuels. Modern electricity production is no different. According to the  

EIA, fossil fuels generated 2,554 billion kilowatts of electricity or 60.2% of all electricity generated in 2022. In comparison, renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric, only generated 21.5% of the electricity used.     

With this in mind, it's apparent that running an electric car still produces a carbon footprint, they just don’t come from the tailpipe. Another offset emission is the production of the electric car. Damien Erst, a researcher for Liege Universite, says, “The manufacture of the battery therefore emits 0.236 [kg / kWh] x 43022 [kWh] = 10153 kg of CO2, a little more than ten tons.”(Ernst 11). In comparison, Russel Campbell says, a gasoline vehicle produces, “ Around 5.6 tones of CO2 are released during a petrol or diesel car's manufacture on average, around three quarters of which are released during production of the steel body in white.”(Campbell 7). The electric car produces almost double the carbon emissions in the battery alone. This is the primary dilemma surrounding electric vehicles. The batteries have an extremely heavy carbon footprint, both in the electricity used to charge them and the production of the battery itself.

Consumer cost:

Another factor is the initial price of an electric car. A base model Tesla Model 3 will run about $38,990. That gets you rear-wheel drive and 272 miles of range. In comparison, and Toyota Camry, with all-wheel drive and 510 miles of range will cost the buyer $30,991. $8,000 less, but double the range and AWD included. From the consumer's perspective, the Camry is the best deal, at least upfront. Furthermore, brand reputation plays a crucial role in a consumer's purchasing decision. Toyota’s reputation for producing extremely reliable vehicles. In Motor 1’s list of 12 vehicles most likely to last longer than 250,000 miles, Toyota has 6 vehicles on it, and with longer-lasting cars, consumers need to buy less often, therefore, reducing cost. 

Charging infrastructure:

Another major factor to take into account is the potential issues it may cause in regard to the power grid. From 2012 to 2022, power usage in the US increased by roughly 5%. By 2030, it's projected that power usage will increase by 18%. The US power grid, for the last 25 years, hasn't seen any major surges in consumption. So upgrades are limited and largely implemented as needed. However electric car charging puts stress on an outdated power grid designed for joint usage with fossil fuels. Solutions are expensive and take time, Kevala, a Grid analytics company, conducted a study on how much a modernized grid would cost. For California, it would cost $50 billion. While this may not seem like a lot relative to California's massive GDP, however, over the last 10 years, California has only spent $100 billion on infrastructure, or about $10 billion annually. Furthermore, adopting a better power grid would contribute to the already staggering $33 trillion national debt.

In the distant future, electric cars could see more widespread adoption. They’re fast, quiet, and safe vehicles. Right now, however, there are several major issues with the vehicles themselves, and the power grid supporting them. Until these problems are addressed, they will only cause more harm than the standard ICE(Internal combustion engine) cars society has relied on for the last 137 years.