Stefania Mendez's Portfolio 2015 by KPTIMES

Stefania Mendez 2015 Portfolio

Stefania Mendez stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339 Hannah Fenske Aggieland Yearbook 1111 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1111 Dear Mrs. Fenske, I'm very excited to be attending A&M, as it has been my dream since I was a little girl. While I was visiting the website I noticed that you are currently accepting applications for the Aggieland Yearbook Staff and I would love to join your staff. I have seen your work and it's fantastic and something I definitely want to be a part of. I would like to apply to be both a photographer and a writer, if possible. If only one position is available, I would like to apply to be a photographer. I have been in the journalism program at Kingwood Park High School since 2012. I was on the yearbook staff from 2013 until now and on the staff I held the photo editor position my junior year. Through my years of journalism I have picked up skills, such as knowing the rule of photography and how to use photoshop, that would be useful for this job. The pictures I've taken for my school's publications have been printed in both the yearbook and occasionally in the magazine. Also, I'm used to working under pressure and the idea of meeting deadlines and I know the basic rules of yearbook. Since I was young, the idea of taking pictures has always interested me and I took the phrase "A picture is a thousand words" by heart. I would take pictures of random objects simply because I liked how they appeared. It wasn't until my freshman year when I started journalism that I discovered the true meaning of the quote I mentioned earlier: I could tell a story through my pictures. At first, the journalism class was just to learn how to take better pictures but by the end of the year I had completely fallen in love with it. I hope you take me into consideration for the Aggieland yearbook staff as I want nothing more than to be able to do something I love at the school of my dreams. Sincerely, Stefania Mendez

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339 Objective: To take part in the creation of the yearbook for all the students at A&M by taking pictures and writing stories while acquiring new skills and furthering my journalistic career. Education: Attended Kingwood Park High School Graduation date: May 2016 Have completed Spanish 3 & 4 Dual Credit courses at Lone Star College GPA: 4.8 Relevant High School Courses: AP English Language & Composition, Dual Credit Spanish 3, Dual Credit & AP Spanish 4, Advanced Journalism-Yearbook Experience: Intro to Journalism- 2012 Yearbook staff- 2013-2014 Photo editor- 2014-2015 Awards, Honors, and Membership: Kingwood Park High School: -Attitude is everything award 2014-2015 -Spanish National Honor Society -Math National Honor Society -Journalism National Honor Society Activities: -Yearbook -Band References: Megan Ortiz- Yearbook Advisor, megan.ortiz@humble.k12.tx.us Michelle Neel- AP English teacher, michelle.neel@humble.k12.tx.us

Stefania Mendez stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Self-analytical essay I got into journalism by accident. My freshman year, had a period that I had to fill up so I decided I wanted to take a class to help improve my photography. I talked to my middle school counselor and after a long game of twenty questions she suggested for me to take a photography class. However, this class was not available for underclassmen so instead they put me in Intro to Journalism. Now, I wasn't too thrilled because I'm not a huge fan of writing and to this day I'm still not a big fan of writing, even though I enjoy it more now. At the time, the journalism teacher was Melanie Bradshaw and she seemed to think I was a decent enough writer and journalist to join the yearbook staff. To be completely honest, I wasn't going to apply to be on the yearbook staff, I just wanted to be in photojournalism and learn how to take better pictures but Mrs. Bradshaw, Tori Gatling and Katherine Teagle ended up convincing me through constant reminders about the yearbook application online and the nearing deadline. So I applied and starting my sophomore year I joined the yearbook staff. At first I thought "Ew, this class is going to be horrible because there must be even more writing" but after a couple of months I really started to enjoy the class and I even noticed that my English grade went from a B to an A. However by the end of my sophomore year I was just about ready to quit yearbook and focus on band instead and I almost didn’t join the staff. Thankfully Tori convinced me not to quit and to keep going. When junior year started I was very nervous because Bradshaw and the seniors were gone, leaving Tori, Katherine and I to fend for ourselves, or so I thought. After I met Mrs, Ortiz at Panther Camp and after I met all the other girls I didn’t know I ended up absolutely loving it and enjoyed it more than my sophomore year. I have learned so much from this staff starting from how to get the back the tool bar that always seems to disappear from InDesign to how important friendships are. I learned how important is was to step up and help others out, to get out of my comfort zone, to not be afraid of getting hit by a ball in order to take the perfect picture and that I actually enjoy being a journalist. I learned that procrastination is not a good idea at all because it’s going to cause lots of trouble. I learned yearbook takes a lot of dedication. When I was in it last year I relied on the seniors to help out but know that I had to step up I realized that now others were counting on me and that this was a team effort. I learned that deadlines are important and if you set your mind to something you can achieve it. That doesn’t just apply to yearbook deadlines either, it applies to everyday life too. The lessons I learned here I will always use in my everyday life even after I graduate. Learning how to meet deadlines will help me meet deadlines with my job in the future. Journalism involves a lot of writing and since I want to be a pediatrician it’s going to help me when I have to write medical reports.

Reflection #1 Run your race

BOYS FIND WAY TO STATE IN STRONG SEASON Story by Stef Mendez

HUDDLE UP. The varsity team comes together before a meet to pray for the team's safety and the ability to run well during the race. Photo by Stef Mendez.

RACE AGAINST TIME. Garrett Woods11 races to the finish line during a meet in the summer to get the best time possible. Photo by Stef Mendez.

OUT OF THE WOODS. Juniors Chris Hatrel and Garrett Maynard dash through the woods to get ahead of their competitors during their Regional meet on Nov. 1, 2014. Photo by Stef Mendez.

84 Sports

Cross country is both an individual sport and a team sport. That’s why the boys do various activities together such as team dinners on Thursdays, Ultimate Frisbee games, or lunch together after meets. Something as simple as playing video games together also keeps the bond between the runners strong. “The team is like a family who look out for each other but in school,” Isaac Squyres11 said. During a meet, screams of encouragement can be heard everywhere from teammates cheering each other on throughout the day. “Even though on a personal level some people don’t get along, we always cheer each other on during a race,” Carter Floyd10 said. “You want them to finish as close to first as possible because you want the best for the team.” The close knit group is easy to see with teammates

like Chris Lewis11 and Chris Hatrel11. When the runners received their team jackets, Lewis and Hatrel knew exactly what they wanted to put on it. “We decided to hyphenate our last names since we’re practically family,” Lewis said. “We’re always there to encourage each other and it’s a great push.” The team has achieved many things this season with all three teams going to district and varsity going to Region. Two runners, Ismail Jackson12 and Avery Johnson12, reached State. "Overall this season was pretty good,” coach Chris Elliott said. "Some people really stepped up to do a good job and the younger kids have lots of potential." After the season ended, goals were set for the next year and good byes were said to all the seniors. “I’m going to miss the coaches and all the team dinners,” Johnson said.

TAKING THE LEAD. Ismail Jackson12 takes the lead at the start of Regional meet which helped him qualify for state. Photo by Stef Mendez.

“This was the first mock meet of the season so it was really fun. I liked the watermelon too.” - Mario Foltz10

“When I'm about to finish, my goal is to pass everyone in front of me and don't let anyone pass.” - Carter Floyd10 Photo by Tori Gatling

Photo by Stef Mendez Boys Cross Country

I’m proud of the boys XC spread specifically because of the story. The story is something new and special. It gives a different aspect of the sport. I’ve been covering XC since I started yearbook and the one thing that stood out when I’d be with them is how close they were. I have never participated in a sport and the only “team” I’ve been introduced to was band. I saw how they would do so many things to encourage each other and help their bonds grow. Plus, everyone on the team was so nice to me too. This is what I focused my story on. My story is focused on their achievement but the main idea is the relationship between teammates because they are the ones who make it special and unique. I also like how in the dominant photo the runners seem to be running into the page and then in the other pictures the runners continue to run in that direction. In all honesty, this was probably the easiest spread I’ve done. I learned from my mistakes last year and took plenty of pictures so that I had lots to choose from. The interviews went smoothly because I already knew some of the guys and they were all very nice. The only difficult thing was actually giving the story and I still believe it could use more work.

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

MY FAVORITE PART

Reflection #2

A TOSS UP. Becca Chapman12 tosses out shirts to the student section during Fall Frenzy in October. Fall Frenzy is a student versus teachers volleyball game to raise money for H.A.A.M." Photo by Stef Mendez.

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Reflection #3

YOU'RE SOMEBODY'S TYPE. Krystal Rowell 12 plays with her phone and a stress ball to pass time while she donates blood to help people in need.

about

Serving others "Being a part of school related functions and friends."

- Bailey Ferguson11, NHS

"Getting to do random volunteer work."

- Chris Bayne11, Key Club

"I love serving the community and helping the people who need it."

- Sydnee Miano11, Key Club

"I'm president and it's fun helping out the community and school."

- Ariana Chavarria12, Key Club

"Everyone around me is honest and diligent."

- Nina Arntsen10, NHS

"Working blood drives for HOSA and going to district convention with Key Club."

LET IT FLOW. HOSA member Dakota Haley11 kicks back and relaxes while he donates blood during the Feb. 26 blood drive. HOSA held three blood drives this year at KPARK. "I donate to save lives," Haley said. "Each donation is different but I would encourage other people to donate." Photo by Kaetlyn Luna.

- Becca Chapman12, NHS, Key Club, HOSA

"Going to meetings, socializing and volunteering."

- Hannah Rasmussen10, Key Club

"Allows me to be involved."

- Morgan Zaborowski11, NHS

"Serving others and being with friends who want to serve."

SWEATER WEATHER. Caitlin Lakey12, Hannah Sulver12, Emily Cornwell12, Sarah Schneider12, Ally Mullennix12 enjoy some snacks while wearing ugly Christmas sweaters at the NHS winter party.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN. Alanis Garnett11 and Veronica Rodriguez9 participate in the selfies with Santa project by NHS. Assistant principal Alan Corman dressed up as Santa for the event.

What was your favorite service project this year?

- Nathanael Wilkinson11, Key Club

"The service opportunities we get to do."

- Daniela Martinez11, Key Club, HOSA, STUCO

"Going to meetings with my friends."

- Kristen Rosenthal12, NHS, Key Club

"Serving others, going to DCON, being lieutenant governor, and going to 5 star hotels."

- Ivanna Soto12, NHS, Key Club

44 Classes & Clubs

"The best buddies carnival was fun. I set up a photo booth and watched people take pictures."

- Chris Lewis11

"Cleanwood. We cleaned up the community by picking up trash. I liked going under the bridges."

- Bobby Credeur10

"When we gave Valentine's cards to the elderly. That's my favorite project each year. "

- Daniela Martinez11

"When we hosted the HOSA competition. We helped liked 1,000 students and I met a lot of new people. "

Organizations offer students chances to serve a purpose Story by Stef Mendez Chorus of laughter and bright smiles can be seen and heard while student's work on service projects throughout the year. Whether student's are picking up trash, collecting canned goods or working with the elderly, everyone has an individual job to help give back to the community. Key Club and National Honor Society are organizations that help empower students to be the best they can be through service-driven opportunities. Sarah Schneider12, the vice president of service for Key Club, is in charge of all the service points. Schneider is also the president of NHS. "I love volunteering," Schneider said. "It's a great way to make new friends and meet new people." Jaelynn Johnson11 is one of the many students who are involved in both Key Club and NHS. Johnson is the secretary for Key Club and the historian for NHS. "Being in both Key Club and NHS is hard work to keep up with but it's all worth it in the end," Johnson said. "The feeling I get knowing I am able to make a person's day is priceless." Kate Weir is the faculty advisor for Key Club. Fall Frenzy was a big project this year for Key Club. The teachers took on students in a volleyball match during Den. All money raised during Fall Frenzy went to H.A.A.M. "The most memorable moment this year was Fall Frenzy," Weir said. "It was great seeing the students come together and hearing them say that it was the best pep rally they have had all year."

RALLY AROUND. Key Club members go to the capitol in Austin during school hours for Rally Day and met with Brooks Landgraf, Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives for District 81. CAN FOR A BETTER FUTURE. Canned goods stack up as NHS members donate as a service project. The project took place around Christmas time when food and meals are most needed.

- Juan Grimaldo12 National Honor Society/Key Club

This was by far the hardest page I had to do and it could use a lot more work. Haley and I were given maybe a week, not even, to do this spread. It was very last minute because other students who tried it couldn’t finish it because they had other spreads to do. The reason why it was so difficult was because we had to pictures, whatsoever of any event that Key Club or NHS had done. I learned that next year, this is definitely an area we need to make sure we have pictures of. The story itself was not difficult to write and I managed to get the interviews done, with help, in a class period and have the story written by the end of the day. Haley did the sidebar and the mod so that was a help to. I f this wouldn’t have been so last minute, this spread would have been a lot better. For starters, we could have probably gotten another picture and not used that picture of the snowman and the cans. That picture will forever haunt me. I have mixed feeling about this piece. I’m proud that Haley and I got it done in such a short amount of time and made it decent but at the same time this spread makes me cringe Especially the snowman picture.

Dominant band picture: I’m proud of this picture because of the angle I took it. Instead of taking the picture straight on I moved and got it from a different angle. In the picture, the band kids are seen standing in a diagonal line, which is the use of a leading line. I like how clear Rachel is and how gradually everything else is sort of blurred out. Ismail’s woods picture : I’m proud of this photo because it shows a different scenery and the trees kind of create a framing effect. In my opinion, this picture shows what cross country is. Cross Country involves running on different terrains instead of on a track. This picture shoes Ish running through trees and it shows the dust rising behind him. I also really like how the light is seeping through the leaves of the trees and creating a pattern on the ground. garrets XC picture: The first thing you see when you look at this picture is the emotion it in. The reason why I like this picture is because it shows the emotion on Garrett and his opponents face as they both run to the finish line. They’re both going full out and trying to beat each other and you can tell. Everytime I see this picture, I relive the moment I took it and I remember how hard Garrett worked to beat the other guy and how his teammates cheered him on.

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Reflection #4

Reflection #6

I was the photo editor for this years yearbook and in my opinion I was very committed to the yearbook. One of the main reasons why I quit band was because I knew that yearbook was going to take most of my time. I knew that, since the seniors were leaving that I would have to step up and be a leader for all the new staff members. It was kind of a scary thought but I, as well as Tori & Katherine, managed to pull through. Quitting band to be dedicated to yearbook was a very hard decision because I love band but I had to choose and I knew that I probably wasn’t going to major in music but journalism was something I was interested in. I honestly don’t think there were too many problems or hardships this year. The only thing I would say was sort of difficult was getting used to a new staff and a new teaching style but after the first couple of week it wasn’t that bad anymore. I know I mentioned this before but it as very nerve wrecking knowing that the new staff members were going to look up to us and ask for help. I feel like were weren’t prepared enough to take over and we were kind of left in the dark. For me, it was worse because I didn’t attend the journalism camp so when panther camp and school started I was completely in the dark. It takes also takes me a while to get adjusted to knew things because once I learn something I fall into a sort of a routine. Next year, won’t be this hard though because I learned how to step up and help others. I did learn many things this year though. I learned that having a very neat and easy organizing system is very helpful and that we should definitely have one next year. This year the pictures are very difficult to find as we have them saved in two different places. Actually as I’m writing this, Tori and Katherine are struggling to find a specific picture. Next year, I plan to create an effective system where everything is very specific and neat. I’m kind of funny when it comes to organizing photos on computers and have to have a folder for every event I have. A very important thing I learned this year is to take lots of pictures. The staff needs to take every single opportunity they can, its better to have too many pictures than too little. This was especially true when it came to the Key Club and National Honor Society page. When the time came to rush and try to finish the page we realized we had absolutely no pictures for any of these organizations. We ended up having to use pictures that were contributed and they were not good at all. One of our pictures is a stuffed snowman surrounded by canned goods. It’s so bad and I know that I mentioned it so many times before in this portfolio but its very aggravating. Overall I feel like I handled this year pretty well. I stepped up and helped the rookies, or as I like to call them woodland creatures, and we had such an amazing staff this year. I was very close to everyone, including the magazine staff & Mrs. Ortiz , and I love each and every one to death and I can honestly say I would die for them. This year has been amazing and I’m looking forward to another one.

A Closer Look

The Pride 2016

Stefania Mendez stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Reflection #6

Sports

Touchdown!

This space is reserved for filler text. I am pretending to write a story about football. I am now going to write a few sentences in Latin. Ave atque vale. That means Hail and Farewell and it happens to be from my favorite fictional world which is the shadowhunter world. Another Latin phrase is Pulvis et umbra sumus which means we are dust and shadow. That line is featured in the book and is said by the amazing Will Herondale. The line is originally from Horace.

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Varisty football has a great season and makes it into the playoffs. Story by: Chuck Shurley The team defeated school rival With only a few sceonds left to Blackwater Demons and knocked spare on the clock, Dean Smith00 their chances of going to the managed to make a touchdown allowing Free Will High School to playoffs. At the end of the game, the boys were confronted by star qualify for the playoffs. football player Crowley King. Dean Smith caught the ball “He was very upset we won the from the blah blah blah blah, game and accused us of cheatjumped over some players and ing,” Sam Smith said. “I however made a touchdown. Smith has been on the team for 2 years now. was not phased by it due to my moose-like structure.” “My father trained me for The team will now go head to this my entire life,” Smith said. “However, I couldn’t have done it head against the famous Golden gate Angels in the next first without Sammy or Cas.” round of the playoffs. Coach Smith managed to win the game with the help of his brother Robert Singer is not intimidated 00 by the team. Sam Smith and best friend Cas “If I know anything about my Green.00. boys, its that they can take down “I do not understand football those idjits,” Coach Singer said. that much,” Green said. “All I “I am confident that we will deknow is that I work very well feat anything in our path.” with Dean and Sam.”

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Football Games

“The game is made up of two things blah blah blah and blah blah blah. Blah blah blah blah and then blah blah blah blah -Football Playergrade

“I injured myself playing football and it hurt and it made me scream in pain. Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah but I pulled through because my team needs me.” -Football Playergrade

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“The game is more complicated than you think because blah blah blah blah blah. Then this happens and blah blah blah.” -Football Coach

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Clips

Best Buddies bond through fun

Clips

WITCH SHALL I CHOOSE? Courtney Vasquez12 decides which hat she should choose to throw the ring at during Trunk or Treat, which was held in the commons. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

DOUBLE VISION. Devin Wallace12 and Rebecca Lewallen11 talk to each other at Trunk or Treat. Lewallen was thrown off guard. "Coach Myers and I thought it'd be funny if he gave me the varsity girls uniform and my friend has a red wig and it was perfect," Wallace said.

about

Best Buddies

Story by Stef Mendez est Buddies is an international organization that serves to create forever friendships between special education students and general education students. KPARK’s Best Buddies program is one of the top chapters of the district, is recognized nationwide and has more than 200 members. Shadow President Charlie Brenner10 has been in Best Buddies since his freshman year. Brenner is a peer buddy. “Best Buddies has made me feel included and has taught me to accept my different qualities so I don’t change into an image people want me to be,” Brenner said. “This organization unifies the entire student body including people from all different backgrounds.” Kim Stokes, who is one of the club's co-sponsors, has been teaching at KPARK for six years. “Best Buddies’ main two purposes is to pair up students with IDD, intellectual and developmental disabilities, with general education students,” Stokes said. “The other purpose is to foster a climate of acceptance to our campus and community.” Diagnostician Tiffany Major, who sponsors the club with Stokes. “My favorite moment was when we took the kids to watch the homecoming game,” Major said. “The joy and excitement you can see in their eyes is priceless.” Another highlight came over the summer when the club went to Disney World. Randall Reed, owner of Randall Reed Planet Ford, wanted to take Best Buddies on a trip because he had gotten the chance to meet many members from Best Buddies. Reed wanted to create an atmosphere to interact and have a good time with each other. Reed paid for 79 people to go to both Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando over the summer. Reed also continues to make donations to the organization. "This was the experience of a lifetime that I'll never forget," Brenner said. "It brought us together as a family of brothers and sisters."

"Making new friends and forming bonds with some buddies."

- Lauren Singletary9

"The Best Buddies dinner."

- Jake McIlhany9

- Bryce Miller12

"I love integrated athletics."

- Mason McKinnon10

"I love hanging out with my buddy."

- Colton Killian10

- Sydney Jenkins9

Q: How long have to you been in Best Buddies? A: Three years. I started my sophomore year. Q: Why did you join ? A: I heard about it in middle school. I also babysat someone with Down Syndrome. My mom and the kid's mom ran a marathon for Best Buddies together. Q: What's your favorite part of Best Buddies? A: Seeing the support the school shows at our events.

CARE TO DANCE? During halftime the students participated in the Cha Cha Slide. The students danced with Best Buddies members from Kingwood High School. Photo by Tori Gatling.

DRIVE TIME. Cameron Gillespie9 and Anthony Huiet11 race down the court for a chance to score. Photo by Tori Gatling.

What was the highlight of Trunk or Treat? Q: What kind of activities do you do with your buddy? A: Normal activities like going to the movies, eating dinner and hanging out at my house. Q: What's your favorite memory? A: The Disney trip last summer. We worked really hard to get there and it was worth seeing how happy everyone was. It was also my first time going to Disney. Q: What have you learned from best buddies? A: Don't judge a book by its cover and

everyone has their own story. Q: Since you're a senior, what will you miss the most? A: It's going to be hard not seeing everyone everyday. The thing I'll miss the most though is Austin Criner's hugs. Q: How did Best Buddies contribute to your high school experience? A: I made most of my friends in the club. Best Buddies has helped me become a stronger person. It made me happier and I also found out what I wanted to do as a career.

"Serving others, competing, leadership opportunities and meeting new people."

- Emily Neff11

"Making your friends into a family as the year goes on."

- Carleigh Pollock10

"Hanging out with buddies and making connections."

- Courtney Blanchard10

"Playing musical chairs "My favorite part was with Bri and Seneca." getting to dress up with -Heather Vance11 Madisen (Hayes) and get candy."

-Jade Pellegrin12

"Getting to dance with my favorite people like Dennis and all the buddies. "

"The haunted house because it was really cool to scare people."

-Jake Townsend12

"Because I can make lots of friends."

- Dennis McGinley12

-Shannon Lambert11 Best Buddies

YOU'RE SOMEBODY'S TYPE. Krystal Rowell 12 plays with her phone and a stress ball to pass time while she donates blood to help people in need.

about

Serving others "Being a part of school related functions and friends."

- Bailey Ferguson11, NHS

"Getting to do random volunteer work."

- Chris Bayne11, Key Club

"I love serving the community and helping the people who need it."

- Sydnee Miano11, Key Club

"I'm president and it's fun helping out the community and school." "Everyone around me is honest and diligent."

- Nina Arntsen10, NHS

"Working blood drives for HOSA and going to district convention with Key Club."

- Becca Chapman12, NHS, Key Club, HOSA

"Hanging out with my friends, working at fun events and playing games with the buddies."

TAKING THE LEAD. After making a shot and scoring, Jason Blanchard12 and Justin Patton12 share a high-five. Thanks to this shot, KPARK took the lead against Kingwood in the annual Best Buddies basketball game. "This is my first year in Best Buddies," Blanchard said. "It was really cool seeing how excited the buddies get during the game." Photo by Tori Gatling.

- Ariana Chavarria12, Key Club

"Playing fun games because they make me all excited."

MEET Emily Crawford12

54 Classes & Clubs

WHAT I LOVE

MY FAVORITE PART

"Going to meetings, socializing and volunteering."

- Hannah Rasmussen10, Key Club

"Allows me to be involved."

- Morgan Zaborowski11, NHS

"Serving others and being with friends who want to serve."

SWEATER WEATHER. Caitlin Lakey12, Hannah Sulver12, Emily Cornwell12, Sarah Schneider12, Ally Mullennix12 enjoy some snacks while wearing ugly Christmas sweaters at the NHS winter party.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN. Alanis Garnett11 and Veronica Rodriguez9 participate in the selfies with Santa project by NHS. Assistant principal Alan Corman dressed up as Santa for the event.

What was your favorite service project this year?

- Nathanael Wilkinson11, Key Club

"The service opportunities we get to do."

- Daniela Martinez11, Key Club, HOSA, STUCO

"Going to meetings with my friends."

- Kristen Rosenthal12, NHS, Key Club

"Serving others, going to DCON, being lieutenant governor, and going to 5 star hotels."

- Ivanna Soto12, NHS, Key Club

44 Classes & Clubs

"The best buddies carnival was fun. I set up a photo booth and watched people take pictures."

- Chris Lewis11

"Cleanwood. We cleaned up the community by picking up trash. I liked going under the bridges."

- Bobby Credeur10

"When we gave Valentine's cards to the elderly. That's my favorite project each year. "

- Daniela Martinez11

"When we hosted the HOSA competition. We helped liked 1,000 students and I met a lot of new people. "

- Juan Grimaldo12 National Honor Society/Key Club

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Clips

FOLLOW THE LEADER. Ariana Chavarria12, one of three drum majors, directs a halftime show at Turner Stadium. Chavarria was named drum major, along with Hannah Sulver12 and Stephanie Jordan12 last year after the tryouts. Photo by Tori Gatling.

BEAT THE DRUM. Mac Simmons12 performs as part of the drumline with band members Trae Floyd12, Mutaba Mundemba9, Michael Heginbotham11, Victoria Perez11, Chris Hatrel11, Arran Donoghu9 behind him during a halftime performance in the fall.

Run your race

WHAT I LEARNED

BOYS FIND WAY TO STATE IN STRONG SEASON Story by Stef Mendez

about

Color Guard "Color Guard is basically a family of teenage girls with weapons."

- Haley Arthur11

"When we're doing the show and our teamwork comes together it's pretty great."

HUDDLE UP. The varsity team comes together before a meet to pray for the team's safety and the ability to run well during the race. Photo by Stef Mendez.

- Kristen Meaux10

"Color Guard is more difficult than it looks but once you get used to it it's actually really fun."

- Madison Keller10

"I learned that Haley, our captain, is really, really scary when she is mad at us."

KNOW ALL THE ANGLES Jack Anderson12, James Slaughter11, Rachel Rice9, Marcia Bustinza11, Amanda Rose11 and Devin Peña12 stand tall and proud in a diagonal formation during their performance at Texan Drive stadium.

Marching to a new beat

Story by Stef Mendez

s a new year rolls in, so do changes. Band is no exception. When a new season starts, changes in drill, music, technique, and members take place to make each year uniquely its own. “This year we have a larger Color Guard,” Britnee Woodward11 said. “Competition-wise we have gotten 10 times better.” The biggest challenge this year would be the retirement of band director John Nielson. Partway through marching season, assistant director Robbie T. Sitka took over. “We lost a band director,” Sitka said. “The students had to take on more individual responsibilities to reach our collective goals.” They found success in their marching band UIL competition, receiving two 1’s and a two from the three judges. A 1 is the highest rating a judge can give. This is the second year in a row that the band has accomplished first division in their competition. “This is my first year marching,” Devin Pena12 said. “Getting first division was great.”

STEP BY STEP In the midst of the Humble ISD Marching Festival, Lesley Rivera9, Rachel Rice9, Noah Albrecht9, Caroline Dedmon10, Hunter Dodgen10, Jacob Hamilton11, Allison Rau11, Michael Dean9, Marcia Bustinza11, Dale Lewis12, Ainsley Montgomery10, Mason Carr11 and Arran Donoghue9 step off the 40-yard line. Photo by Stef Mendez. ON THE FRONT LINE Rachel Rice9, Symia Morgan11, Javia Whiting11, Lesley Rivera9, Jordan King12 and Hunter Dodgen10 march at the first playoff game of the season which was held at Galena Park Stadium. Photo by Katherine Teagle.

- Carrie Dedmon10

PUT THE FLAG OUT! With band members Lauren Brooks12, Nathan Johnston9, and Austin Bleier10 pausing in the background, Color Guard members Caroline Dedmon10, Kristen Meaux10, and Haley Arthur11 strike their pose during the Humble ISD Music Festival. Photo by Stef Mendez.

TOOT YOUR OWN HORN. Bryan Rodriguez10, Kylie Smelley10, Symia Morgan11, Heather Canales9 march through the back as Jacob Hamilton11 performs his solo during the second song of their show at the Humble ISD Music Festival. Photo by Stef Mendez.

Match the player to the instrument 1. John Rosson9

2. Andrea Velasquez10

3. Scott Jones12

4. Juan Grimaldo11

RACE AGAINST TIME. Garrett Woods11 races to the finish line during a meet in the summer to get the best time possible. Photo by Stef Mendez.

OUT OF THE WOODS. Juniors Chris Hatrel and Garrett Maynard dash through the woods to get ahead of their competitors during their Regional meet on Nov. 1, 2014. Photo by Stef Mendez.

84 Sports

Answers: 1. B, 2. D, 3. A, 4. C

52 Classes & Clubs

Band

TAKING THE LEAD. Ismail Jackson12 takes the lead at the start of Regional meet which helped him qualify for state. Photo by Stef Mendez.

“This was the first mock meet of the season so it was really fun. I liked the watermelon too.” - Mario Foltz10

“When I'm about to finish, my goal is to pass everyone in front of me and don't let anyone pass.” - Carter Floyd10 Photo by Tori Gatling

Photo by Stef Mendez Boys Cross Country

Stefania Mendez

stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Clips

Clips WHERE DO I USE

TOUGH EGG TO CRACK. Calvin Laird11 and Emmitt Evans11 drop their "EOS" project for an egg drop lab in physics class. Each Physics student was required to design and build a contraption that would provide a safe landing for their egg. Photo by Tori Gatling.

KICKIN' IT. Matthew Flaherty10 prepares to kick a field goal with the help of Garrett Velko12 at the first playoff games against Nederland. This is the first year Flaherty is on varsity. "The game against Nederland was pretty good," Flaherty said. "I made two field goals that game." Photo by Katherine Teagle

CONNECTION. James Anderson11 works on connecting the electronics to make sure the robot is working. The robotics team was in its final days of work before its build season was over. They worked nightly at the CATE center after school. Photo by Amber Dalton.

BREAKING FREE. Jaylon Henderson12 jumps in an attempt to run down the field with the football while Zach Purcell11 holds off the player from Nederland. "Everyone went in nervous," Henderson said. "(We were) focused on beating Nederland and that's what we did with the help of our defense making the first stop." Photo by Katherine Teagle.

MATH

outside of the classroom "Counting how many hours of sleep left."

-Jacob Arnold10

"I work for my grandpa at a firework stand and I add up the totals."

Kickin' up a storm

- Sarah Martell9

"Family catering business."

STRONG SECOND HALF SURGE PUSHES TEAM INTO POSTSEASON

- Eli Bellard12

"Cooking dinner."

- Meghan Jones10

"Fantasy football."

- Trey Byers11

"Calculating how much money I will have from work."

HAIR RAISING. Mercedes Murillo11 and CJ Benson11 learn about electrostatics by experimenting with a Van de Graaff generator during sixth period Physics with teacher Glenn Taylor. A Van de Graaff generator is a used to produce high voltage by collecting electrostatic. It causes the hair on your head to stand up and may result in being shocked. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

- Jacob McMaster11

Science students try to grasp 'watts' happening in class

"In the kitchen, doubling cookie dough."

- Celeste George9

"At the cash register at work."

-Ivanna Soto12

"To calculate the number of months until I can drive."

CHEMICAL OF A DIFFERENT COLOR. Brooke Chinen10 uses an eyedropper to test for reactions of different chemicals for a lab in chemistry class. The students were looking for color change caused by the chemicals. Photo by Haley Hampton.

ALL FUN AND GAMES. Triston Bakke11 tests probability by playing "cover the spot" during math. This was one of the many carnival games built by AQR students. Photo by Stef Mendez.

If I were a scientist... SET INTO MOTION. Dominic Kelley throws a softball during a projectile motion lab to calculate the projectile arch and distance of the softball. Photo by Stef Mendez. 11

- Emmelyn Nguyen10

"When shopping to calculate how much a discount will save me."

- Andrea Velasquez10

"I would invent a "I would create a 3D way to automatically iPhone." - Melanie Trochez Meraz9 learn things so school wouldn't be necessary." - Clayton Buck10

"I would invent a bottle that bottles up a memory like perfume and you can use it anytime." - Alexis Beswick12

68 Classes & Clubs

"I would invent a machine that can convert energy into matter and vice versa."

FOR THE GOOD. Algebra students work in coach Mark Ruffin's class on an Ending Hunger program. They packaged non-perishable food items to send to people who were in need. Photo by Caitlin Hiegel.

Story by Joshlyn Thomas With all the different science classes offered here, Lauren Nickal11 chose to take Forensic Science this year. "It sounded really interesting," Nickal said. Akin to all the science teachers, Jerry Pollard tries to create a fun environment that still provokes thought and encourages learning. "Mr. Pollard is very personable and tried to connect with the students," Nickal said. Throughout the year, Pollard's forensic students have been assigned a variety of different projects; from creating Facebook profiles for notable forensic analysts to writing a five-page essay regarding problems in law enforcement and how to solve them. Students also got to recreate a fake crime scene as a group project. "A guy stabbed his ex-girlfriend [in our crime scene]", Nickal said. "We had everything from caution tape to evidence markers." Hands-on projects like this are incorporated in all of the science classes on campus. Physics teacher Glenn Taylor has facilitated labs of all sorts - from dropping eggs in safety devices from the school balconies to the cardboard boat races to wrap the course up in May. "The best thing [about teaching Physics] is challenging the students," Taylor said. "I love it when they understand a concept and the lightbulb goes on."

- Johnathan McGeever11 Math/Science

I designed this spread

Story by Owen Herbert Despite a number of underclassmen, the football team had another strong season. They made a late push to reach the playoffs and reached the second round for the secondconsecutive year. The team finished with a 7-5 record overall and 5-3 in districts. “The kids showed a lot of character and leadership, which is what we needed,” coach Jim Holley said. After a slow start to the season in which the team lost four of its first six games, the Panthers got on a roll and won five-straight games. The streak included a victory against the then-No. 8 team in the state C.E. King. The Panthers needed a game-winning field goal by Matthew Flaherty10 to come from behind for a 31-28 victory. “I knew it was going in after I kicked it,” Flaherty said. “I looked up at (Garrett) Velko and I was happy, it was awesome.” In that win,varsity quarterback Jaylon Henderson12 was also impressive. He threw for one touchdown and rushed for two as he finished the night with 272 rushing yards. “Words cannot really describe how great the feeling was,” Henderson said. The players used the momentum

POSTSEASON AWARDS Cole Atteberry12 - First team all-district Matthew Reyna11 - First team all-district Joseph Matulia12 - First team all-district Zach Mills11- First team all-district Thekiso Orenic12 - First team all-district Jaylon Henderson12 - Second team all-district Brandon Cochran12 - Second team all-district Garrett Velko12 - Second team all-district Zach Purcell11 - Honorable mention all-district Edward Collier12 - Honorable mention all-district Matthew Flaherty10 - Honorable mention all-district Theko Orenic12 - Honorable mention alldistrict Mason Harris11 - Honorable mention all-district Brian Bynes12 - Honorable mention all-district

from the win to propel them into the playoffs, where they beat the Nederland Bulldogs in the first round. Moving into the second round, they fell short against the George Ranch Bulldogs, 35-14. Although the season did not end the way the team hoped, their leadership, character and will to win was what made the team special to the coaching staff and the players. “We wanted them to develop characteristics to carry on for the rest of their lives and I think this year’s group did that,” Holley said.

I am...

PAINFUL ENDING. Parker Cradic12 grimaces in pain after breaking his ankle during a game against New Caney. Photo by Stef Mendez DANCE PARTY. Zach Mills11 and Matthew Reyna11 dance after running out of the tunnel with the American flag at Turner Staduim before the start of the game. Photo by Stef Mendez

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#14

"I am more outspoken on the field than I am in the classroom."

#77

"I am pumped when I get pancakes in a game."

- Edward Collier12

#20

"I am very energetic and excited when I make a touchdown." - Matthew Reyna11

- Zach Purcell11 Football

I did everything but the story on this page

Stefania Mendez stef_mendez@yahoo.com 832-800-6598 435 Laurel Pine Dr. Kingwood, TX. 77339

Clips Close finish

TEAM FALLS ONE POINT SHY OF STATE BERTH

By Madison Berry Unlike many sports, cross country is a rough, “[One of the girls] and I just met one day at pracsometimes purely mental, challenge. In the races, tice and just kind of clicked, like two peas in a pod.” there are no teammates beside runners for encourHaving such close bonds with their teammates agement, and the multiple mile courses cover hills, helped the girls through both the ups and downs of mud, and sometimes even obstacles to jump over. the season. “Cross country is a bunch of mental toughness “I wouldn’t say we had a lot of downs; but when because there’s a point when you’re running mile we did have our downs, the whole team was there seven or eight when you’re like, ‘Alright, I’m done. to support each other,” Myers said. I hate my coach. I hate this,'’’ said assistant coach And while there may have been very few downs, Jason Myers. “But you just have to understand that as he said, the season didn’t come without its disapif you run that next mile and keep up the pace, that pointments. is going to make you that much better and give you “The low point of the season, probably for me was more of a chance of being successful.” not not making it to State, but looking the girls in On top of extensive physical exertion, practices the eye and telling them we missed by one point,” are both before and after school during season. Smith said. “I love these girls so much that telling “I’m here at the school for almost 10 hours out of them something that I knew would disappoint every day, and I have to go home and do work for them really hurt me.” all of my classes,” Savannah Skrivanek11 said. But despite the disappointments, running still has With such long hours, it comes as no surprise that a positive influence on the girls' lives. “Running has just helped me to have a better the runners form close friendships with the people outlook on life, and I think it’s made me realize who share the same challenges: their teammates. what’s really important and what’s not. It helps you “A [highlight] was that I got to see some of the make better choices," state qualifier Fallon Spragfriendships of the girls on the team,” coach Robert gins12 said. Smith said. “Just getting to see that they built relationships and served each other and became more In the end, through the early mornings and of a family.” lengthy races, Myers shared one important reThose friendships aren’t just a coach’s wishful minder: “Once that gun fires, it’s first one to the thinking. front; see what you got left and try to win.” “I’ve found a lot of friends,” Kimber Watson9 said,

LONE RUNNER. Katelyn Parker12 finishes taking a turn on her second time going around the course. Photo by Stef Mendez.

NUMBER

CRUNCHING

girls on the team

1,344

miles ran this season

“I feel very nervous, and I feel like I'm not doing enough during the meet to have a good race." - Jamie Contreras12

TAKING CHARGE. Katelyn Parker12 and Fallon Spraggins12 race ahead to take the lead of the race after the gun was shot. Photo by Stef Mendez.

BATTLE FOR FINISH. Athenea Hargrove12 competes in a meet during the fall on Sept. 28. Photo by Stef Mendez.

“I strive to be like Ismael Jackson everyday. During a meet I feel super pumped and I'm ready to tear up the track."

- Emily Woody11

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I took all the pictures in the spread

RACE FACE. Kimber Watson9 stays ahead of her opponents during the JV race at Cypress Woods High School. Photo by Stef Mendez.

Girls Cross Country