Special Advisement Issue of Common Sense

Common Sense Special Advisement Issue

Concept art by Lexie Smith

Millard South High School

Finding yourself

The importance of getting involved at school

Step Right Up!

by Travis Cloyd Staff Reporter

Being told to get involved is a constant has been a member of jazz choir since sophomore Marching Band (in season) Sport (in season) in the life of a student that never manages to go year because as he says it is “such a chill group of away, but why is that? people and we all have had a pretty tight bond.”

Dance/cheer teams Getting involved is one of the most, if A favorite memory of his from jazz choir Drama (during shows) not the most, important thing that you can do in is when they had a gig at The Amazing Pizza high school. You are constantly told this, yet the Machine where they had a salad race. He even Student Council reason for it only becomes evident once you have thanks all of his involvement for how it “helped Show Choir (in season) already become involved. Asking a student why build character as a leader while also keeping DECA someone should accountable,” get involved a great help in will truly let the stress of Forensics/Debate you know what high school.

Sport (off season) kind of person Sophomore Class Boards that student is.

Josephine This is because McPhaull says involvement much of the same, gathers even after just two experiences that years at Millard Josephine McPhaull ‘24 do so much for South. McPhaull you. is currently a Ask Millard South’s Activities Director, member of the varsity swim team, show choir, Steve Throne, one of the largest advocates for student council, principal’s advisory board, After school clubs involvement. Throne says activities are “where school improvement team, and leo club. you can meet friends and be part of things “Getting involved allows you to meet people and connect more with the school,” two major and reach out of your personal comfort zone,” reasons why students do get involved. Throne McPhaull said. “Meet people you might have mentions the importance of not just walking out never met otherwise and experienced things you of the school at 3:15 and calling it a day, as taking never thought you would try.” part in the various activities our school provides McPhaull says that she mainly does these lifelong skills and ensures an investment in life. activities because they bring her happiness This sentiment is shared by students because “you are constantly surrounded by as well, upper and underclassmen alike. Senior amazing people while doing amazing things.”

Ondrey Valentine is currently involved in student Her favorite memory from an activity is when council, show choir, jazz choir, senior class board, she went to state swim and eating bagels on the and principal’s student advisory board along with bus there. Overall, she suggests that everyone get other outside-of-school activities. Ondrey came involved in an activity because “they are such an to Millard South new to the district but through easy and fun way to grow as a person!” activities built strong relationships with a wide So make sure that next year or even this variety of people. spring, you find activities or even just one that “When getting into high school, you’re you are interested in, as it opens up a world of told to get involved because it helps your college possibilities. Getting involved is most important applications, and while it doesn’t hurt to be and should be a priority for incoming freshmen, Find the level of yearly time commitment that’s involved, you quickly learn that you will wind up but should also be a priority for anyone really enjoying something,” Ondrey said. Ondrey anywhere. right for you! Some activities and clubs take more time than others, but all are rewarding and getting involved in more than one is even better!

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You are constantly surrounded by amazing people while doing amazing things.

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Don’t miss your exit!

The highways upperclassmen have taken on their path to graduation

by Vivian Kaldahl and Turner Wittstruck Staff Reporters

your high school career.

Summer school is a great way to knock out a required class or two. SumThe most common way students take on all the mer school is 5 weeks long with a total of required courses they need is an obvious path– simply 24 days of school. Junior Andrea Forman get them over with. Many students will pack their first attended summer school in 2020 to take two years as high schoolers with all their necessary Healthy Living and again in 2021 to take gym courses and credit-fillers as to not have to worry Personal Finance. Forman said that taking about them later down the line. summer school classes gives you more Junior PJ Smeal went this direction in an effort freedom. to avoid unnecessary stress. “I’m so glad I took those “If you choose to take one class in the classes early, because most of my friends stay up until morning for example, you’re only giving 3:00 in the morning working on physics and precalc up 3 hours of your day where you probwhen a late night ably would’ve just for me is usubeen lying around For anyone interested in being able to ally over by 11:30,” house or in have more fun and an enjoyable experi- the Smeal said. bed. Then, during Other stuence in high school rather than a stress- the school year, dents, like Junior ful one, I would suggest taking summer you’re able to Audrey Spahr, take a variety of Helen Corrigan, class of ‘22, sketches out plans for her Inktober assignment in maximize their school. interesting classes Studio Art. Inktober is a month-long challenge that people from around the world schedules early and find out what participate in to improve their skills. Photo by Haley Dougherty Hannah Meyer ‘23 on simply to have you really like to do. your junior or senior year. Most of the time this is more off blocks in You may even discover your because as a freshman, the student has classes that their senior year. future career path,” Forman they already know they want to take. For senior Helen Spahr said “I’m said. Taking classes during Corrigan, her ultimate goal was to take Studio Art. glad I did this because I feel like I can chill my senior the summer allows for more space in your schedule.

“I had to fit five art classes into my schedule beyear.’”

“Summer school has allowed me to take some fore senior year to have enough credits to take studio Cramming the start of your high school experifun computer classes that I would not have had room art, and I knew I didn’t want to drop orchestra,” Corrience chalk-full of courses isn’t everyone’s ideal plan, for otherwise. It has also allowed me to continue gan explained. though. Utilizing as much of your first couple school- to take orchestra throughout high school,” Forman Due to how many art classes she had to take years as possible is a great option, but it’s not the only explained. before senior year, Corrigan put off gym classes. Gym way to take required courses before the latter-half of Junior Hannah Meyer took a gym class and perclasses tend to be the most common classes that peosonal finance the summer before her ple knock out during their first years of high school. high school career had even begun.

“I don’t regret putting off the gym classes,’’ CorriHer brother, a Millard South alumni, gan said. “I’m really glad I was able to take studio art, took summer school as well and she and gym as a senior is kinda fun.” saw the benefits it brought him: more Figuring out how you want to organize the bulk open blocks. of your high school experience can be stressful, but it’s Meyer said that “doing summer not as difficult as it likely seems at first glance. It’s just school for this one year allowed me about prioritizing what’s going to work for you. to take orchestra, choir, and French If you want your senior year to be lighter with for each year of high school”. Those more open blocks, you can take your required courses couple of weeks in the summer make earlier on. If you’d rather have fewer classes so you a big difference in your schedule have more time for activities or a job, you have the flexibility. “For anyone interested in opportunity to push some stuff off for a little while. being able to have more fun and an There’s even summer school for the student who isn’t enjoyable experience in high school afraid to utilize a bit more of their time off. rather than a stressful one, I would No matter what plan of attack you go in with, suggest taking summer school,” worrying isn’t worth it. Every student has both their Meyer explains. “Not only does it get counselor and Pride Time teacher to help them many of your required classes out of through getting their credits. Millard South has your the way, but it also opens room for back, but it’s always a good idea to have a plan in your enjoyable classes.”

Hannah Meyer, class of ‘23, listens to an AP Environmental Science lecture on own mind, too.

Another strategy in high school implementing sustainable development in cities. Photo by Ally Seevers is putting off required classes until

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These activities and clubs have no prerequisites, so all you need to do is show up! These are similar to the clubs you experienced in middle school.

Creative Clubs

Slam Poetry

When: Every other Monday or Wednesday in Room 118.

How often: Every week (switch between Monday and Wednesday) Purpose: Those who want to write, create, and preform, as well as compete and enjoy poetry from several perspectives.

Who to reach out to if interested: Amber Wormington

Drama Club

When: Twice a Month Purpose: For those interested in learning theatre skills and being involved in fun social activities Who to reach out to if interested: Robyn Baker

Art Club

When: Bi-weekly Purpose: To create and learn new art skills.

Who to reach out to if interested: Melanie Mitera and Lori Wegener

Lit Fly

Digital Graphics and Sports Media Clubs

When: Every other Tuesday Purpose: Digital Graphics Club creates fun art work using a variety of computer programs.

Sports Media focuses on creating scoreboard graphics.

Who to reach out to if interested: Brian Hull

Kyra Fowler Drama Club Class of ‘25

World Language Clubs French

When: Monthly Purpose: Participate in fun and culturally enriching activities Who to reach out to if interested: Terri Wright & Hannah Frasier

Spanish

When: Monthly Purpose: Broaden cultural understanding and awareness Who to reach out to if interested: Shelly Ramig & Amanda Newburn

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German

When: Monthly Purpose: Meet and have fun with other students through cultural and social activities Who to reach out to if interested: Tim Seeger & Jordan Pullen

When: Every Monday in room 124 from 3:20 - 4:00 Purpose: For students who want the creative freedom to write and design, including poetry, flyers, and much more Who to reach out to if interested: Holly Hartel

Lexi Nielsen Slam Poetry Class of ‘24

Student Led Clubs Magic the Gathering

When: Weekly after school on Tuesdays in Room 126.

Purpose: To hang out with your friends and meet new people while playing Magic the Gathering

Young Republicans

Gay Straight Alliance

When: Every other Thursday When: Varies after school in Room 414.

Purpose: To be a safe Purpose: Talk about curspace for LGBTQ+ youth rent events and share your thoughts and opinions

Computer Science Club When: Every other Tuesday at 3:20 in Room 133 Purpose: Learn coding, be with like-minded people and participate in competitions.

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What I like about German Club is the difference of foods that they serve, all the nationalities that come to German Club, the activities that we do, and it’s overall a very fun experience.

- Cassandra Thompson German Club Class of ‘24

Civic and Service Clubs

Environmental Club

When: Varies Purpose: Participate in green service projects both inside and outside, and educate the Millard community about the importance of environmental issues Who to reach out to if interested: Katie Bennett-Light, Tessa Adams & Meta Felt

Educators Rising

When: Mondays 3:45 to 4:30: Rockwell tutoring.

Thursdays at 7 p.m.: Math Zoom tutoring Purpose: Provide opportunities to interact with elementary students through tutoring at Rockwell Elementary and help students of all ages withmath via tutoring over Zoom Who to reach out to if interested: Christine Kaldahl

Diversity Club

When: Every other Tuesday Purpose: The goal of Diversity Club is to promote awareness and acceptance of our world’s diverse populations Who to reach out to if interested: Ashley Erickson Shayleigh Leeper-Martinez Environmental Club Class of ‘24

Strategic Game Club

When: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month Purpose: Develop students’ interest in board games, they focus primarily on strategy-based games that allow for the development of problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication Who to reach out to if interested: Brett Keim, Austin Meter & Jamisen Goodell

When: Mondays 3:30 4:30 in Room 227 Purpose: An opportinity for students to meet with others that have similar interests in comics, anime and games Who to reach out to if interested: Michael Deutsch

When: Wednesdays 3:15 to 4:15 Room 314 Purpose: A social club for all abilities Who to reach out to if interested: Leigh Beltzer

Leo Club

When: Thursday A days after school Purpose: Serving the community and those in need by volunteering around Millard and Omaha Who to reach out to if interested: Aubrey Wagner

Ella Langseth Leo Club Class of ‘25

Special Interest Clubs

Pop Culture Club

Patriot Pals

Math Club

When: Before Competitions Purpose: Students compete both individually and as teams in various math competitions throughout the year.

Who to reach out to if interested: Katie Wanek-Lundholm

Moments 2 Zen

When: 3:30 - 4:15 in the Library alternating Wednesdays wtih Yoga Club Purpose: Establish a lifeling journey of self care. Focus on positivity and self-talk, learn to grow from your experiences and control your mind.

Who to reach out to if interested: Meryl Zadina

Isabella Lechtenberger Nunez Diversity Club Class of ‘24

Yoga Club

When: 3:30 - 4:15 in the Library alternating Wednesdays wtih Moments 2 Zen Purpose: Improve your strength, felexibility, balance, sleep, mindset and more Who to reach out to if interested: Meryl Zadina

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I realized later that I don’t want to be a teacher, but I still go back because it’s so much fun and brings you out of your comfort zone because you’re with a lot of people all of the time.

–Tru Bilharz Educators Rising Class of ‘23

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0569 Introduction to Computer Science 0566 Business Technologies

0570 Digital Media

0567 Emerging Technologies

0574 Advanced Digital Media *

0568 Digital Production

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It’s like a rabbit hole that you fall into except it leads to new friends, a cool community and critical thinking.

Walker Hill Debate Class of ‘24

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Jazz Band gave me a community of people who like the same kind of music as I do. It gave me an opportinity to meet some really cool people who play the same instrument as me.

Shane Christie Jazz Band Class of ‘23

0756A/B Voce

0732 Marching Band

0746 Contemporary Ensemble

0736A/B Philharmonic Orchestra

0747 Music Connections 0798 Music Theory

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I have learned a l through DECA an Adam Looney DECA officer Class of ‘23

0510 Busines t n e m in a rt te n 0551 E ting 0538 Entrepr and Sports Marke 0-12) 0505 Introdu 0552 Marketing (1 0502 Accounting I g Classes leads to

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0020 Speech 0022 Debate 0023A/B Competitive Debate 0021 A/B Forensics: Competitive Speech

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= Classes that have a requirement before you can take them. Check your Curriculum Handbook for more information.

0024 Theatre and Performance I 0025 Theatre and Performance: Advanced Studies * 0026 Theatre Technology* 0039 Theatre Appreciation

0704 Color and Design 0701 Art History: Art Through the Ages 0705 Art Foundations 0710 Pottery and Sculpture* 0720 Drawing*

These electives have no prerequisite or one semester prerequisite so these classes could be taken in the same school year.

0425 Human Diversity 0422 World Religions*

0534 Introduction to Food and Nutrition 0520 Interior Design 0536 Textiles and Clothing Design 0528 Adult Life and Parenting

lot more about myself nd what I want to do.

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0426 International Relations

Enrollment in an y of these classes lead s to participation in Skill s U.S.A

DECA

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Through journalism, I have really come out of my shell.

From interviewing drama and debate kids, to future NBA and NFL stars, I have met so many different people and have grown because of it.

Ally Seevers Sports Editor for Newspaper Class of ‘23

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0654 Introduction to Carpentr y 0657 Carpentr y * 0662 Introduction to Engineering 0663 Engineering an d Design A* 0675 Civil Engineer ing and Architectur eA 0692 Robotics A * 0613 Home Mainten ance 0681 Introduction to Metalworking 0682 Precision Mac hining A * 0685 Welding I * 0695 Small Engine s*

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Show Choir Must be involved in a choir class

Purpose: Show Choir is an extracurricular that allows you to sing and dance and compete. We have two groups: Stage One (All girls) and South on Stage (Mixed) When: Rehearsals twice a week for an hour and a half, competitions start in January Audition Process: Learn the song and choreography and perform.

There is also a 3 day workshop in the main gym

Jazz Choir

Cost: Costumes, shoes, earrings, etc. You also need to pay for tights and makeup on your own If interested, reach out to Amy Wesley

Purpose: Perform at choir concerts at South and other occasional gigs When: Tuesdays after school and Fridays before school Audition Process: At the end of the school year prior to joining and you will perform a group audition with microphones Must be involved in a choir class to join.

If interested, reach out to Jason Stevens

Show Band Purpose: Play behind the show choir to keep tempo and add more to their show during dance breaks When: Twice a week beginning in November. Competitions weekly from January-March Audition Process: In May you will perform an excerpt from the show choir show as a group.

If interested, reach out to Will Keller or Amy Wesley

Jazz Band

Purpose: Perform at school band concerts, jazz competitions and festivals When: Mondays and Fridays after school, before school Wednesdays Audition process: Group audition in the fall If interested, reach out to Darren Myers

Cheerleading

Ella Helm Cheer Class of ‘23

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Nathan Fitch South on Stage Class of ‘24

Maddie Lodes Jazz Choir Class of ‘23

Purpose: Promote school spirit at games and events When: Cheer is a big commitment. They meet Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and game days. Along with practices and sporting events, they attend state cheer in the spring Cost: Plan to invest in the custom uniforms and other apparel as well as other small payments throughout the year for t-shirts and showcases Tryouts are a week long. Three days are spent learning a cheer and a dance as well as other jumps and motions. The last 2 days are the real tryouts in front of a set of judges.

If interested, reach out to Shari Burrus

“Cheer is the best opportunity to make life-long friends, and you learn so much about teamwork and improving.”

Camryn Karels Class of ‘23

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Dance Team

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“The feeling of stepping out on that stage and having everyone cheer for you and support you is such an unreal feeling that I can’t explain.”

-Phoebe Hruska South on Stage Class of ‘24

My favorite part about being on the dance team is performing and feeling the adrenaline rush and the support of the crowd.

Savannah Smith Class of ‘22

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When: Dance team is also a big commitment.

Practices Tuesday-Friday as well as Sundays during competitive season, attendance at all home football and basketball games Cost: You will have to pay for uniforms, trips, etc.

Tryouts are a few days long in the Spring. The first 2 days are spent learning combos and practicing required skills and the last day is the actual tryout where you will execute the skills you had practiced.

If interested, reach out to Rachel Gordon

Principals Advisory Board

Student Council

Purpose: Meet with Mrs. Weaver and discuss school-related topics When: Monday morning once a month Selection Process: Application Who to reach out to if interested: Heidi Weaver

Purpose: Plan school-wide events, encourage student involvement, and foster student leadership When: Weekly Monday and Friday mornings

Lead new students around our building Patriot Agents Purpose: When: Any time new students enroll

Selection Process for incoming 9th graders is an application and interview. Student election by grade for other council seats If interested, reach out to Kyrie Nehls

Selection Process: Open to sophomores and older by application If interested, reach out to Kristi Meier

Color and Winter Guard

Majorettes

Purpose: To perform a routine involving flags, weapons, and dance.

When: Color guard practices during the summer and during the school year. Winter guard meets two days a week and competes on Saturdays Selection Process: Four-day tryout process learning the routine and basic flag work If interested, reach out to Ashley Ericksen Kerri Bazis Principal’s Advisory Board Class of ‘24

Drama & Thespians

Purpose: To put on musical and play productions for the school and community to enjoy When: Rehearsal schedule posted for each production Selection Process: Before a show comes around, there will be information on how to audition for a part or tech crew.

To be a part of Thespians, you need to complete a certain amount of “drama activities” (auditioning for shows, creating projects, etc.) to earn points and you are eligible with 15 points If interested, reach out to Robyn Baker

Purpose: It’s a way to have fun, show talents, and bring excitement and school spirit When: Typically Tuesday nights at the baton studio, also performances at pep rallys, football, and basketball games Tryouts: All of the girls on the Majorettes also twirl at Sue’s Stepperettes. There aren’t really try outs as all of them have experience.

If interested, reach out to Coach Rachel or one of the girls on the team

Tate Williams Student Council Clsss of ‘25

Senior Class Board Purpose: Plan the senior banquet, senior superlatives, and other activities When: Twice a week, but if you plan to become an officer, plan on more often Selection Process: Members are voted on by the senior class If interested, reach out to Jennifer Kennedy-Metz or Aubrey Wagner

Junior Class Board

National Honor Society

Purpose: The main role of JCB is to plan our prom. They also host other activities such as the powder puff football game and candy cane grams When: Every other Thursday during first semester and every Thursday during second semester. You will also attend meetings on the weekends in the weeks leading up to prom to work on decorations.

Selection Process: Members are voted on by the junior class If interested, reach out to Jaime Robinson

Purpose: Demonstrate scholarship, service, leadership and character in planning service activities and the Mr. Millard South Pageant.

When: Once a month both an a.m. and p.m. meeting option.

Selection Process: Open to juniors and seniors via an application and essay.

If interested, reach out to Candace Ahrens or Shelby Bockelmann

Diversity Council Purpose: To advocate for students of color in our building and district When: Twice a month on Tuesday mornings. One meeting with core council and one meeting with committees.

Selection Process: Application If interested, reach out to Heidi Weaver

Lane Reider NHS Class of ‘23

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Academies

Start your college credits early

Business and Entrepreneurship Academy

• How to own your own business and be your own boss. Learn profitability and how to take innovative risks Academy Campus: Millard South

The Business and Logistics Management Academy

• Explore the management and movement of people and products around the globe.

Academy Campus: Millard North Kyle LeBlanc

Education Academy

Business & Entrepreneurship Academy Class of ‘23

• Explore careers in education fields; teaching, corporate training.

• Field experience in Millard elementary schools Academy Campus: Millard West

STEM Academy

• Looks into design, math, engineering, science, and info technology • Will complete a STEM internship and STEM capstone course Academy Campus: Millard West

Air Force JROTC

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The AFJROTC program is one of many here at Millard South. Just because you join the program does not mean you have to join the military. This program builds character and leadership qualities. This program also comes with some perks too. It fulfills the graduation requirements for the following classes. Within your freshman year you get a free social studies class as well as a physical education class. As a junior you will earn personal finance credits. You will be guaranteed at least 20 community service hours by the time that you graduate and you need at least 10 to graduate.

Wesley Bills AFJROTC Class of ‘23

These are similar to the activities listed in the get credit for its section, except they often entail a multi-year commitment. This means that you really dig deep into these experiences. You can apply to be in an academy for your junior and senior years. For all academies, some courses are taken at another Millard high school or local campus.

Transportation is provided to the Millard high school academies.

Health Sciences Academy

• Health care career path.

• Will earn a Certified Nursing Assistant and Emergency Medical Technician credentials • Will complete a clinical internship Academy Campus: Horizon High School

UNMC

Choose 4 classes to participate in on UNMC’s campus. You will have the opportunity to observe, work along, and shadow people in the medical field. It helps give you a leg up in the field and provides valuable knowledge and experience.

There is a hard application process that requires letters of recommendation, application, and a 250-word essay. This program is open to those older than 16.

Metro Community College • Cost: $38 per credit hour • 1-2 year course options • Classes will meet between 1:00 and 3:00 17+ Pathways in: Technology (animation and programming, specialized, web development) Culinary Cars

Manufacturing Engineering Trade (plumbing, welding, HVAC) Healthcare Education Drama Criminology Horticulture

Ellie Erickson ECHS Class of ‘25

Shalyce Emerson ECHS Class of ‘23

Infographic by Haley Johnson

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“ Coming into school,

I didn’t really know anyone, and through volleyball, I have made some of my best friends.

- Camille Renken ‘24

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patriot athletics

“ Those group of guys

are some of my closest friends. It’s nice knowing they always have my back, both on and off the court.

- Will Cooper ‘24

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Golf has given me new friends and some of the best memories.

- Harrison Clements ‘24

“The girls are such a

good support system. I always have someone I can go to whenever I’m down. I’m so thankful to have them and share the love of softball with them.

Page and photos by

Ally Seevers

- Neveah Williams ‘23

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