V42 Issue 6

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Friday, May 9, 2025

Volume 42 | Issue 6

IN A HAZE Photo illustration by Annabel Brown, Margot Cathey and Beau Mcknight

Formative years spent behind the mask Returning to school after COVID-19, students worldwide have experienced increasing levels of anxiety, depression and feelings of social isolation. This has dramatically affected test scores and overall academic and social performance.

Teachers are increasingly concerned about the future of adolescent learning as valuable social and academic skill sets have not been formed because of online schooling. This has caused budget cuts, an influx of teacher resignation and frustration with school districts worldwide.

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The Episcopal School of Dallas student newspaper | 4100 Merrell Rd. | Dallas, Texas 75229

ESD goes Global On March 26, ESD celebrated its first Global Day to educate middle and upper school students about the moments of awe in the world.

Through a variety of activities, the community encouraged students to broaden their perspectives, deepen their understanding of global traditions and appreciate the beauty and complexity of diverse cultures and places across the globe.

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News

V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

The Episcopal School of Dallas

ESD upholds diversity, inclusion as states restrict programs

School leaders reaffirm their mission to foster belonging, opportunity

PURPOSE THROUGH BELONGING As Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Dr. Elizabeth Goatley works to shape a community more inclusive of everyone. "My job is to make ESD a place that allows every student to live into their purpose and figure out what they were created on this Earth to do," she said. "[Then], we can help put them on the right path to do that work." Illustration by Gracie Nealon

Gracie Nealon | Views editor

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n the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who leaves his flock of 99 sheep to find the one that has gone missing. One of Fr. Swann’s favorite parables, the message that every individual matters is a guiding principle behind ESD’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, even as such initiatives come under national scrutiny and rollback.

DEI programs, which aim to promote diverse representation and foster welcoming environments in educational and corporate settings, have been challenged by the Trump Administration. On the day of his inauguration, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14151, dismantling all DEI programs within the federal government. He has since urged educational institutions to do the same, even threatening to withhold federal funding if DEI offices continue to operate. The administration advocates for a strictly merit-based admission and hiring process.

“The public release of [DEI] plans demonstrated immense public waste and shameful discrimination,” the White House wrote in Executive Order 14151. “That ends today. Americans deserve a government committed to serving every person with equal dignity and respect, and to expending precious taxpayer resources only on making America great.”

A 2024 poll by the Pew Research Center found that 21 percent of Americans shared similar views to President Trump and believed that DEI initiatives do more harm than good. Even so, many are alarmed by this hostility toward DEI programs, arguing that the concept has been politicized and misunderstood.

During an interview with CNN in 2024, Former Merck Chief Executive Officer Ken Fraizer expressed that DEI programs were introduced to address

the lack of equal opportunities for marginalized groups and to help build work environments where all can thrive.

“Companies turning their backs on [DEI] will limit equal opportunities for people who face disadvantages because of their skin color, the neighborhood they grew up in… and other forces beyond their control,” Frazier said during the interview. “DEI is about developing talent, measuring it in a fair way and finding hidden talent in a world where not everybody has an equal chance to exhibit their abilities.”

At ESD, Director of Diversity and Inclusion Dr. Elizabeth Goatley believes that America is not yet at a point where DEI positions can be removed in favor of a purely merit-based system.

“It’s an admirable ideal, but the history of our country does not give us proof that leaning into one’s merit has been an equitable process,” Goatley said. “We needed laws and policies for universities to desegregate. If you needed laws and policies for universities to hold themselves accountable for admitting students who [exceed] their criteria, that means they weren’t looking at merit.”

The push to create a more equitable America gained momentum in 1961 when President John F. Kennedy signed Executive Order 10925, introducing “affirmative action” policies extending educational and labor opportunities to historically marginalized groups. The DEI movement reached its height in 2023; according to another Pew survey, 61 percent of adults reported that their workplaces implemented policies regarding equality in hiring, promotions and pay.

But on June 9, 2023, the United States Supreme Court condemned affirmative action, ruling race-conscious college admissions unconstitutional.

We believe that having people from different walks of life, who have different experiences and perspectives, helps enrich a classroom experience.

Dr. Elizabeth Goatley Director of Diversity and Inclusion

“The student must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the official opinion of the Supreme Court. “Eliminating race discrimination means eliminating all of it.”

Since then, 13 states have banned DEI in higher education, and 20 more states are debating similar measures.

The Texas Senate approved Senate Bill 12 on Mar. 19, 2025, a proposal seeking to extend the state’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion to K-12 public schools. In protest, Houston Sen. Borris Miles expressed his concern that removing DEI programs in high schools will counteract America’s progress in ensuring equal educational opportunities.

“The state has demonized DEI, but I refused to accept the narrative,” Miles said during courtroom discussion. “Minority students have borne the brunt of this assault. This bill seems to create a double standard. All the programs and strategies that traditionally uplift minority students seem to be under attack.”

As a private school, ESD’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiative remains an influential part of its framework. For Ann and Lee Hobson Head of School Dave Baad, the values expressed in DEI are ingrained in the school’s mission. “[The framework for what is now DEI] was Fr. Swann’s initiative, back in the mid ’90s, to live into our Episcopal identity,” Baad said. “It's a nice focus on what is embedded in the Episcopal Baptismal Covenant about treating everyone with dignity and respect and [seeing] everyone in the image of a loving God. To me, it's just an extension of that effort to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging and that they’re fully part of this community.”

Goatley emphasizes the importance of diversity on campus in bettering the ESD community.

“When we talk about diversity at ESD, we are talking about how we can ensure that we are casting the widest net to capture the best and brightest students and faculty to come to ESD,” Goatley said. “We believe that having people from different walks of life, who have different experiences [and] perspectives, helps enrich a classroom experience.”

As the program continues to impact the lives of students, faculty and alumni, Baad reflects on his goals for its future.

“My vision is embedded in the strategic plan, ESD 2030, and part of it is geared toward community and belonging,” Baad said. “I want to ensure that every student, family and faculty member feels completely part of who we are. I often reference one of Fr. Swann’s favorite gospel passages: the 99 sheep and the one. [It’s] this idea that we want everyone [to feel] completely included. We have such a wonderful community here, and I want to ensure that everybody feels the benefit and warmth of [it].”

The diversity and inclusion initiative at ESD is here to stay, and Goatley believes that the program’s work will guarantee that, going forward, all students feel seen, valued and included.

“I think ESD offers a respected and excellent education, and it's my hope that we get students who love the opportunity to learn, grow and discover their purpose here,” Goatley said. “What I do know is that we only thrive as a community when we are kind to each other, when everyone is willing to engage with each other, where people aren't feeling isolated and where [they] feel like their ideas and voices can be heard.”

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V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

May 9, 2025

The Political Pulse Election Updates: Community Impact and Latest Developments

Hegseth's security slip exposes U.S. military war plans in Yemen U.S. Secretary of Defense adds journalist to internal government chat, sparks security concerns Lilly Traylor | News editor

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n March 24, United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth erroneously disclosed war plans in an encrypted Signal group chat that included the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, Jeffery Goldberg, days before the U.S. military launched attacks against the Houthi militia in Yemen. Only after the U.S. military’s operation against the Houthi military concluded did Goldberg publish the classified details, followed by an article condemning the government’s security vulnerabilities.

Goldberg explained that he was able to follow the conversation among senior members of President Trump’s national security team in the two days leading up to the strikes in Yemen. This confidential conversation was conducted through Signal, an app that is freely available to the public.

Among the chat’s members were Vice President JD Vance, top White House staff, three Cabinet secretaries and the directors of two intelligence agencies.

“The recent breach was due to being complacent; in my opinion, the people involved were lazy and sloppy,” retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Matt Villarreal said in an interview with the Eagle Edition. “Because the personnel involved in the event are civilian political appointees or elected officials, and therefore not subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, they will not be held to the same standards as military personnel. The precedence has been established from previous administrations that they will not likely get prosecuted or even receive administrative loss of clearances.”

In contrast to the previous

government communication procedure on Signal, members of the military are not authorized to utilize group chats for the transmission of classified material. The military has an unclassified email system used to relay top-secret information; in fact, militants are required to use a separate computer system that is isolated from the networking systems that are available to the general public.

“There is a very strict and high level of expectation and demand to maintain the integrity of classified information within the military,” Villarreal said. “There are two requirements for disclosing classified information. [First,] does this person have the required level of clearance? [Second, do they] have a requirement to see this information? Just because an individual has the required level of clearance does not mean that they should be given access to the information.

They need to have a requirement to have access to that information.”

The technology department at ESD prioritizes secure communication by regularly sending out online cybersecurity and digital training to faculty and staff. Following an unavoidable security threat in the ESD school computer system in the spring of 2023, the technology department has developed newer methods to maintain cybersecurity.

“We're not making any changes directly in response to the Signal breach, but [we] are continuously improving our cybersecurity defenses and data handling procedures,” Director of Technology Bryan Barnett said. “For example, the technology department is testing a system that will alert us if anyone sends sensitive information like credit card numbers via their ESD email. Additionally, we require faculty and staff to utilize official ESD platforms

Maintaining confidentiality of plans is of the utmost importance.

Allowing the spillage of information puts troops in unnecessary danger and could be catastrophic to the outcome of the operation. Some plans are always in effect and are part of our nation’s response to threats.

Matt Villarreal Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr.

[including] Veracross, ESD email, Google Drive [and] GChat when communicating or storing information since we have invested in additional security around those platforms.

For similar reasons, we ask that staff handling sensitive information do so from their ESD laptop. Given the amount of time and effort we spend securing our data, it's surprising that some at the highest levels of government chose to share such information on an unclassified platform.”

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the United States government employs several communication security measures collectively known as COMSEC. These measures protect data confidentiality and authenticity through cryptographic techniques. While extreme measures are taken to ensure the security of government data, classified military conversations prove to follow a less formal form of communication. In fact, within the military, militants only had access to small fragments of information that pertained to the role of their military mission.

“The pilots would only have access to schedules and locations in order to get the aircraft where it needed to be at the correct time. The crew in the back of the plane would have different information, concerning frequencies and messages required to be sent and received or schedule changes to the mission,” Villarreal said. “We would work together to get the mission done, but we all had different pieces to the puzzle. It protects a military individual if they were ever taken prisoner or captured, because if they were interrogated, they would not know the entire scope of information pertaining to the operation.”

According to Villarreal, leaking confidential military plans as a militant can lead to

career-ending consequences as severe as federal prison. As an Army National Guard officer for 12 years, Hegseth was aware of the security measures necessary to take as a member of the United States military.

“The military addresses security breaches swiftly and with aggressive accountability and punishment. The response is the same regardless of rank,” Villarreal said. “In addition to federal law, military personnel are governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice. This code dictates all actions that are punishable within the military, including disclosure of classified information. At a minimum, personnel will lose clearance and access to classified information. At the maximum, personnel will face court martial and serve federal time in a military brig or federal prison.

Having said that, civilian personnel are not subject to punishment by the Uniform Code of Military Justice; they are only subject to federal law. ” According to the New York Times, the U.S. successfully bombed the Houthi militia in Yemen on March 24 in order to protect international trade in the Red Sea following the Houthi militia’s destruction of international ships, drones and weaponry. However, just hours after the attack, U.S. citizens questioned the security of the government’s communication system.

“Maintaining confidentiality of plans is of the utmost importance. Allowing the spillage of information puts troops in unnecessary danger and could be catastrophic to the outcome of the operation,” Villarreal said. “Some plans are always in effect and are part of our nation’s response to threats. Disclosure of those plans can reduce or nullify our defense capability and place civilians, as well as military personnel, in danger.”

Illustration by Lilly Traylor

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

The Episcopal School of Dallas

50th anniversary Day of Service impacts lives across Dallas Day of service unfolds as a testament to Fr. Stephen Swann's founding commitment to serve others Rawaan Khan and Nahla Whittier | Staff writers

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embers of the ESD community came together to give back in a meaningful experience—one that impacted them as much as it did the community.

Three hundred students, teachers and parents participated in the 50th anniversary event on March 29 and volunteered at various non-profit organizations around the metroplex. The organization of the event was challenging; however, working to give back brought a strong sense of joy and fulfillment among the community.

“The Day of Service was created to honor ESD's founding commitment to our highest calling to serve others,” Parents Association Associate Head of School Ruth Burke said. “Community service has been in ESD's DNA from the very beginning, and we wanted to pay tribute to that by bringing our community together for a day of service.”

Director of Community Service and Learning Courtney Phelps led this project and managed the partnerships.

She was able to engage and secure seven service organizations to support the service day: United to Learn, Austin Street Center, The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center, Old Samaritan, The Birthday Party Project, Hope Supply and Rainbow Days.

This was the first time the school organized a community service event of this magnitude. The preparation behind this project started more than a year ago, and numerous people played a role in bringing this event to life.

“My role was leading this project, managing the partnerships and partnering with the communications team to promote and provide updates for the event,” Phelps said.

Justin Powell, the digital content specialist and web-

master, helped promote the event to the community. Middle school Community Service Coordinator Laura Gomez was also key in making the event possible.

This event was unique not only because of the way it was organized, but also the fact that it took place on a Saturday. “[The Day of Service] was different from our other events that took place by grade level or division and during the school day,” Phelps said. “Once I was able to confirm all sites interested in partnering with us, the event and all details were promoted to our community with the help of our communication team.”

Freshman Wynne Horton volunteered at Rainbow Days, an organization that focuses on helping kids with disabilities, and was one of the many volunteers who felt gratitude while volunteering.

“I knew my service was benefiting a good cause and overall, the impact made me feel glad I could help kids in need,” Horton said.

Another service opportunity was volunteering at The Birthday Party Project. This organization gives birthday gifts to children who otherwise would not receive gifts because their parents do not have the means to afford them. Sophomore Beall Carothers volunteered with this organization and enjoyed her time because she was able to meet younger kids and help a cause that she cares about.

“My role was setting up the stations before everyone came and then walking around the event to help people when they needed it,” Carothers said. “Also, [I] was able to make some bags when I wasn't helping people.”

The Day of Service helped fuel a variety of learning experiences for everyone who attended the event.

“I learned to be very patient with the little kids because they were trying their

A Global Focus

SHOVELING AND SERVING Some members of the football team worked on landscaping projects at The Samaritan Inn on March 29.

This organization provides housing assistance for those in need. "It was a special experience to volunteer with the team and bond through service," Director of Sports Performance and middle school PE teacher Phil Mosley said (pictured wearing the ESD shirt). Photo by Ruth Burke

best, and I was trying mine,” Carothers said.

Similar to Carothers' experience, Horton also felt that she left the experience with new skills.

“I thought I was [going to] lose count of the supplies because it was over 200 pencils in a bin,” Horton said. “I had to count them, so everyone worked together to come up with strategies on how to keep track of the numbers. I just learned to connect and serve with other people.”

Students were not the only ones who volunteered.

Several parents and faculty participated as well. Upper school history teacher Philip McCarthy went to The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and helped put care packages together for homeless people

moving into apartments.

“For four or three hours of work, you can see your impact,” McCarthy said. “But then you also see how much work and how much help these organizations need. So it kind of inspires you to come back.”

Burke, having led and coordinated other community service events such as the ESD History Chapels, “ESD Eras Tour” Community and Homecoming Picnic and the Time Capsule unearthing, said that the Day of Service was one of the most impactful events because of the large turnout.

“You know, more than 300 ESD people, students, faculty, staff and parents were doing something to give back to the Dallas area at the same time,” Burke said. “So that was just a goose-bump moment.”

A deeper look at the events happening around the world, compiled by Lilly Traylor | News editor

TRUMP AS POPE

SPENDING BUDGET CUTS

HOUTHIS STRIKE ISRAEL

U.N. JUDGE INCARCERATED

President Donald Trump has attracted criticism from the Catholic community after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope.

As the Catholic community prepared for the selection of the next pontiff, the official White House social media account posted the AI-generated photo. The image features him wearing a white cassock, pointed mitre and a cross around his neck, all of which are traditionally worn by bishops. The New York State Catholic Conference remarked on Trump’s social media post as disrespectful and a mockery of the Catholic faith. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni refused to answer questions in response to Trump’s social media post during a briefing with journalists on May 3.

On May 2, the White House released its proposed federal spending budget for Fiscal Year 2026 with a series of cuts to discretionary spending, including NASA. If officially adopted, America’s space agency will face a 24.3 percent funding cut, dropping from $24.8 billion in 2025 to $18.8 billion in 2026.

The decrease in funding will largely affect studies in NASA’s Earth Sciences Division; however, nearly $7 billion will be allocated towards lunar exploration and Mars-focused programs.

Additionally, the Trump administration aims to eliminate funding for “low-priority” climate monitoring satellites just months after NASA scientists determined that 2024 was the warmest year on record. The Trump administration has threatened to eliminate the National Endowment for the Arts and eliminating funding to the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, along with many other small agencies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised a multi-phased response to Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militants struck near Israel’s main airport with a missile on May 4. European and United States airlines have canceled flights into Israel for the next few days. After recently resuming service to Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport following a suspension of nearly a year and a half, carriers including Delta Air Lines and Ryanair have once again discontinued flights. The Houthis, who control northern Yemen, began targeting Israel and the Red Sea shipping in late 2023 in the early months of the war between Hamas and Israel in the Gaza Strip. Following the missile attack, President Donald Trump ordered large-scale strikes against the Houthis to reduce their capabilities to target commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

A United Nations judge has been jailed for six years and four months after forcing a young woman to work as a slave for her in the United Kingdom. Lydia Mugambe, a scholar at the University of Oxford who studied for a PhD in law, was found guilty in March for facilitating the commission of a breach of UK immigration law. In addition to Mugambe’s judicial work in the UK, she also held a high position as a judge in Uganda, where she stopped a local Ugandan woman and forced her to work as her maid and provide childcare. Mugambe exploited her by taking advantage of her lack of knowledge about employment rights, ultimately misleading her as to why she came to the UK.

Section of a screenshot featuring an AI-generated image of President Donald Trump dressed as the Pope, which was posted on X and published on whitehouse.gov.

Police officers guard as a tractor works at a scene after a ballistic missile fired by the Houthis struck a field near Israel's International airport Ben Grunion on Sunday, May 4 in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo by Amir Levy/ Getty Images/TNS.

United Nations General Assembly hall in the UN Headquarters, New York City, February 2024 Photo by Mojnsen, CC BY-SA 4.0 Creative Commons.

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V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

May 9, 2025

Community gathers to dive into awe In celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary, Global Day educates, embraces the world’s wonders, cultures

Veda Bodhanampati and Britt Reynolds | Staff writers

U

nderwater shipwrecks.

Ancient artifact discoveries. Sunken cities. Sophomore Ellie Beshear listens intently as National Geographic explorer Peter Campbell shares his experiences in underwater archeology during chapel on a warm Wednesday afternoon.

On March 26, ESD celebrated its first Global Day to educate upper school students about the moments of awe in the world. In addition to Campbell’s Zoom presentation, the community engaged in activities encouraging students to broaden their perspectives on the beauty of divergent cultures and places on Earth.

“The spirit of Global Day is to educate on and open our minds to what is out there in our world—to the beauty of different cultures, places and spaces,” English teacher and Global Competency Council Chair Antonia Moran said. “I think ultimately, peace is really important, and [it] comes from [a] sense of understanding, empathizing with people and understanding a common humanity.”

Moran, along with Associate Chief Academic Officer Dr. Lindsey Cullins, planned the event. However, the idea originally emerged last spring when Parents Association Associate Head of School Ruth Burke expressed her desire to preserve the global theme of last spring’s community event. She sought to maintain the momentum of celebrating the 50th anniversary while still having a meaningful event. With this goal in mind, she discussed her plan with Moran, and the idea turned into reality.

“Two years [ago we had a] school picnic [centered on] community with unity, where we had families representing different customs and nationalities and displaying other cultures,” Burke said.

“Because it was the 50th anniversary, the picnic would be 50th-focused. [However, this year,] we didn’t want to lose the momentum of a community, so I asked Mrs. Moran if we could include a global theme to expose students more to different cultures.”

After Campbell’s presentation, students met with their advisors to create awe-inspired designs that later were spray-painted onto two different labyrinths designed by Visual Arts Department Chair and upper school sculpture teacher Dane Larsen and his AP Sculpture class. The idea behind it is to support ESD’s Tanzanian sister school, Joseph and Mary Primary School. “[Spray painting] was not just a one-person job; everyone was needed in order to complete [the task],” sophomore Taylor Ampofo, who, along with sophomore Matilda Houghton, represented the Malone and Mason advisory, said. “I think [uniting together] was important because we all got to contribute to this one [design] that is soon going to turn into a big community project.”

After the COVID outbreak in 2020, ESD lost connection with Joseph and Mary Primary School, despite having maintained a steady relationship in the past. When planning for Global Day, Moran wanted to focus on restoring ESD’s friendship with them by designing the labyrinths and sharing one with them.

“There are countless ways students from both schools could connect over the labyrinth, from reflections [and] experiences, to letter exchanges,” Moran said.

The labyrinth was chosen as the day’s main activity because of its powerful metaphor of faith. Its symbolism and connection to the Tanzanian school created a profound and impactful experience for students.

“All the labyrinth does is [allow you to] walk towards the center as [it] begins, and then [it] takes you further and further away from the center, until at the very end, [it] brings you back,” Larsen said. “It’s sort of a metaphor for a spiritual path.”

The path of the labyrinth reveals a complex journey filled with self-discovery, allowing individuals to think more profoundly. As people work their way from the middle of the path toward the edge of the structure, trying to leave, they feel further away from their goal. Whether that goal is goodness, holiness or a spiritual connection, they feel isolated from the ultimate path they are seeking. They then

THE FINAL TOUCHES With the help of stencils and spray paint, sophomores Taylor Ampofo and Matilda Houghton add color and life to the labyrinth’s tarp. “This labyrinth is important because it shows the school in Tanzania how everyone in our community thinks different, but is able to put all of our ideas together into a piece of art,” Ampofo said. On May 1, students gathered outside the sculpture studio to finalize the Global Day project to send to ESD’s sister school in Tanzania.

Photo by Veda Bodhanampati

If we couldn’t go scuba diving and see the shipwrecks, then maybe learning about all the historical and cultural treasures and history under the sea can help people connect to their past and identity more fully.

Antonia Moran

Global Competency Council Chair and English teacher

return to where they started because it leads to the edges, but the design allows journeymen to find their way back to the center.

Some faculty members, along with Stemmons Family Senior Chaplain Fr. Nate Bostian, studied labyrinths around Dallas and abroad two years in advance to gain inspiration for the school’s design. While on the hunt, the Chartres Cathedral in France caught their attention and was a guide for Larsen’s creation.

With the remarkable meaning behind the labyrinth, Moran wanted to link the idea of awe to a meaningful and unifying activity for students. Awe is a short-lived experience of a range of mysterious things people do not understand, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

“You can look at poems, short stories and personal accounts of experiencing awe with somebody you don’t know, which is an instant bond, and it can help connect with [them],” Moran said. “Experiencing awe with a person can bond you more with people you don’t know because you have that experience you can’t put into words, making you feel part of something bigger than yourself.”

Additionally, awe can improve one’s mood, help one think critically, expand one’s perception of time, decrease materialism and make people more generous, cooperative and related to the people around them, according to Greater Good Magazine.

With ESD’s mission of igniting lives of purpose, Global Day is intended to introduce awe to students while allowing them to connect with their classmates, according to Moran. For instance, during the Global Day middle school chapel, Moran interviewed upper school students who had traveled across the world. Students discussed their travels with organizations and clubs like Shoulder-to-Shoulder, Swiss Semester and the Interdisciplinary Humanities Club. This allowed these students to talk about their experiences with awe. Junior Chambers Jones spent the first half of her sophomore year in Switzerland last year and was one of the students interviewed.

“I experienced awe almost every day [in Switzerland],”

Jones said. “After a day-long hiking trip, [students] overlooked a valley almost covered by fog and clouds. It was so cool to see where we started our hike from and how high up we got after a day’s worth of hiking. [Seeing] the view with clouds below us [was special] because I had never been that high up before.”

Campbell’s talk about his archaeological discoveries allowed students to experience second-hand awe, intending to connect students to pursue their interests.

“It is important that [we learn] about global awareness and the histories of other countries and their experiences,” Beshear said. “[We] can go out into the world more open to other perspectives and cultures.”

Moran wanted to implement ancient history with students’ contemporary lives, allowing them to identify their purpose.

“If we couldn’t go scuba diving and see the shipwrecks, then maybe learning about all the historical and cultural treasures and history under the sea can help people connect to their past and identity more fully,” Moran said. “I just felt like what [Campbell] does can fill people with awe.

I thought it was interesting what he said about his work in Tanzania, in particular. The awe he felt was most connected to the impact these people [are] learning about [regarding] their past and ancestors.”

After continuing the tradition of a community event, Moran, Burke and Cullins are considering ways to improve Global Day for years to come.

Instead of cramming the activities into half a school day, members of the ESD community have suggested elongating the day into a week-long event.

Through this, students would participate in small activities each day.

“We have the best of intentions whenever we’re developing these kinds of programs for [students], and we care that [they] are growing in all of these ways,” Cullins said.

“Global competencies sometimes don’t always get the spotlight. We want our kids to be successful in that no matter what discipline or job [they find themselves in], or even just being a member of our community. [We hope that] they can interface with people from all different cultures and successfully collaborate.”

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Head of school expresses concern for growing hate culture David Baad gives upper school homily, addresses values that the community should uphold Emmy Moss | Co-editor-in-chief

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he chapel fell silent as Ann and Lee Hobson Head of School Dave Baad walked up to the podium on Tuesday, April 1. But instead of his usual uplifting homilies, Baad offered to the upper school an intended message that was different from previous ones.

Baad addressed the congregation of upper school students about their widespread use of negative language and attitudes among their peers, highlighting how these behaviors shape and influence young minds. Racial slurs, abusive sexual language and excessive competitiveness are just some of the sensitive topics that Baad, along with other faculty, students and parents, believe to be present in the lives of the student body.

“I have been [the Head of School] here now seven years, and these kinds of behaviors have popped up and existed from time to time,” Baad said.

“We've tried other strategies [like] addressing things individually. It didn't appear that the types of behaviors were dissipating, so I just wanted to try a new strategy, and that was to really get up and address it directly in front of everybody.”

These issues are not just prevalent in the ESD community. Shifting societal norms have impacted students nationwide, normalizing aggressive language and attitudes in everyday interactions.

“I see it everywhere. I'm in conversation with heads of school all over the country, and I think at virtually every

school, they are addressing some or all of these issues,” Baad said. “Everyone is trying to solve the issue of how we interact in a way that is civil and respectful.”

The broader trend and spread of these words can be attributed to social media platforms that allow people to use those types of language from behind a screen.

According to an Associated Press-MTV poll taken in 2011, 71 percent of people are more likely to use slurs online than in person, and only half of those who responded said they were likely to ask the offender to stop if they came across that type of language.

This number has likely risen since then.

“The point I tried to make in my homily was that I think you all are growing up in a different culture with all of the social media you see, and I think generally our culture is sort of more overtly mean,” Baad said. “I, in no way see this as some sort of stain or mark on the ESD kids; it's just that I think we all are influenced by the culture in which we're sitting. I'm not talking about ESD culture, I'm talking about American culture [and] world culture. We're all susceptible to those influences, and I just want to remind us all that as an Episcopal school, we have certain values that we want to uphold.”

Many students connected with the overall message of Baad’s chapel talk, which was viewed as a supportive message for students navigating an already difficult time in their lives.

“I thought [Mr. Baad’s] chapel talk addressed a lot of issues that are in the community, and ways to grow stronger together,” sophomore Matilda Houghton said. “I

I, in no way see this as some sort of stain or mark on the ESD kids; it's just that I think we all are influenced by the culture in which we're sitting. I'm not talking about ESD culture, I'm talking about American culture [and] world culture. We're all susceptible to those influences, and I just want to remind us all that as an Episcopal school, we have certain values that we want to uphold.

David Baad

Ann and Lee Hobson Head of School

A Rapid Rundown

thought the most important part of the talk was talking about the general social scene and how it can impact a person. Since his talk, overall, people have been more respectful towards one another, but change doesn't happen overnight.”

Although this unhealthy trend is broader than just the ESD campus, it has affected the school’s admissions office over the years as well. And the most explicit way these types of behaviors are displayed to prospective families is through sporting events.

“Unfortunately, we have had some families reference these issues [concerning] why they did not accept an offer of enrollment or as a reason that they chose to withdraw an application mid-cycle,” Director of Enrollment Management Cindy Newsom said.

“It is sometimes reported in the anonymous surveys that we send to all families [who] chose not to enroll at ESD, and it has also been communicated through direct conversations.

The majority of comments are related to comments [or] behavior that were experienced at sporting events.”

But some of these negative attitudes are not from the actual players but from the atmosphere in the stands during a sporting event.

“I feel the heated nature of sporting events is ripe for some non-ESD-like behavior,” Newsom said. “I have had a couple of conversations with families in the application process that have called to share what they perceived to be poor sportsmanship from our players and parents at a game. It may be small things like mentioning that they didn't feel comfortable or welcomed in our stadium or more direct observations

about comments made on a court [or] field between students or from our crowd.”

The line between a good game and unsportsmanlike behavior can be thin, and ESD’s history of rivalries with other schools has not made it any easier to decipher. While some people may be worried about aggression during games, some students and athletes see it as healthy competitiveness and a good match.

“I agreed with everything except the sportsmanship stuff,” Scout Smithson* said. “I think that's just how you play sports, you know, you might bring some people down, but that's how winning and losing works.”

Prospective families base their decisions on more than just sporting events, but any interaction with a member of the ESD community—students, alumni or faculty.

While a negative interaction has been the reason a family chose not to enroll, a positive impression from a student or alum has often inspired families to join our community.

“We know there is always more than one side to a story, but we also know that our community is judged by many on the outside by their experiences and interactions [with] anyone wearing or representing ESD,” Newsom said.

“I would also like to counter with the positive feedback we receive through the admission office. Many folks say they choose to apply to ESD because they know some of our alumni, parents and students and are so impressed with the way they conduct themselves, the qualities they possess [and] the friendships they maintain.” * Name changed at the request of the source for anonymity.

a deeper look at current events that are happening in the community

PASS IT ON On April 30, upper school and middle school students, parents, faculty and staff gathered in the Competition Gym to celebrate Pass it On. This event is where the senior class passes a candle to each rising freshman to welcome them into the upper school, passing the spirit of ESD through a candle flame.

This cherished tradition dates back to 1976, when Fr. Stephen Swann organized the first Pass it On ceremony to honor the eighth graders for finishing their time in middle school.

“There is not another school that I know

of in the United States that has a ceremony exactly like this,” Stemmons Family Senior Chaplain Fr. Nate Bostian said. “I love the way that it ties in with the campfire that started our whole school up at the camping retreat on the beach in Galveston.”

During the ceremony, one to two rising freshmen pair up with one senior to receive the light of the candle. Senior Jack Provost passed the light down to his brother, Mason Provost, at the ceremony.

“It was a special moment when I took my brother's place because I have always looked up to him,” Mason said. “I will take the light and continue to shine the ESD values.”

STUDENT BODY WEEK From March 31 to April 11, upper school students experienced two weeks filled with fun and excitement. Kicking off with Powderpuff games and wrapping up with a week of spirited dress-up days, Student Body Week brought lively competition and a welcome break from the usual school routine.

“I think that everyone gets excited and spirited for [Student Body Week], and people go all out, which is really fun,” senior and Student Body President Tessa Cabrales said, “[It’s] a week to give the students something to look forward to and keep the school year super fun.”

Each grade competed in several events

to collect points for their grade. At the end of the two weeks, the grade with the most points won a prize. This year, the competition was intense with the juniors and seniors continuously trading the lead right up to the final day. This took a turn when juniors created a fake line during the rock, paper, scissors competition on Friday, April 11, causing them to lose 30 points that were in turn distributed among the freshmen, sophomores and seniors, placing the seniors in the lead. However, the juniors made a comeback after receiving the lowest number of community violations during the two-week event, earning them an extra 40 points and making them the overall winner with 105 points.

A POWDERPUFF PLAYOFF The senior team celebrates after their 12-6 win against the freshmen class in the Powderpuff semi-finals on March 31. This win advanced them into the finals, which they ultimately lost to the juniors 17-11 on April 3. Photo provided by ESD Student Council.

LOGAN BETT'S PHOTO CONTEST The winner of the second annual Logan Betts Photo Contest was announced during chapel on April 24. Freshman Jackson Laske received first place for his photo, “Lightning Tree,” and received $50.

Logan Betts ’24 passed away in the spring of 2023, and in his memory, the class of 2024 wanted to share his love of photography through an annual photo contest.

“We created [this] last year. The class of 2024 decided to do multiple events [to] honor Logan in between community service and other actions that we took,” senior class Dean Marcela Garcini said. “In one of the events was this photo contest, and we decided to do it because Logan really enjoyed photography

and had a passion for it.”

The contest required a $20 entry per person, and contestants were allowed to submit several photos in the three different categories: nature, abstract and portrait. In total, $480 was donated to Family Gateway, the organization that Betts frequently volunteered with.

“The pictures that we received are really cool,” Garcini said. “I am very amazed [at] the quality of pictures that people took.”

Winners of the contest have their photos framed and displayed in the library.

“After I won the contest, I felt very good and proud of my work,” Laske said, “My inspiration for the photo was from nature pictures online, and I thought that getting lighting on a photo would be cool.”

LIGHTNING TREE Freshman Jackson Laske wins first place in the Logan Betts Photo Contest. Laske placed his camera on a tripod with a low shutter speed during a storm to capture the lightning strike.

Photo by Jackson Laske

THE TRADITION CONTINUES Senior Lyle Hawkins passes the light to her brother and upcoming freshman William Hawkins during the Pass it On ceremony on April 30. Photo provided by Lyle Hawkins

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V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | News

May 9, 2025

History reexamined: Trump releases files on JFK, MLK Society questions the government’s transparency Cassidy Brausa and Searcy Ferguson | Staff writers

A

fter more than 50 years, classified information about the assassinations of three influential American political personalities was made available to the public.

On Jan. 23, during his third day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled Declassification of Records Concerning the Assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “The continued redaction and withholding of information from records on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy is not consistent with the public interest,” Trump said in the Oval Office during the signing. “The release of these records is long overdue.”

Each of these assassinations occurred during the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union that lasted until 1991. This was a key reason why these documents were withheld from the public for nearly 60 years and why national security concerns were cited as a reason for not releasing the files.

According to AP U.S. history teacher Claire Mrozek, there are significant reasons why the government sometimes keeps information from United States citizens.

“There are good, important and legitimate reasons for not being 100 percent transparent as a government,” Mrozek said. “There were also probably some revelations of some shady practices that [the gov-

ernment] knew would put them in a bad light.”

The assassinations of Kennedy and King have been surrounded by conspiracy theories, with many questioning the true culprits, motives behind the killings and possible involvement of both the CIA and FBI in the events leading up to the deaths. For example, a Washington Post article published in 2017 discussed the possibility of Lee Harvey Oswald being a CIA agent.

However, when information is kept from the public and unavailable, people create speculations that can ultimately harm society and fuel mistrust.

“I think conspiracy theories are a genuine concern for me because healthy skepticism of the government is great, but there also needs to be healthy respect,” Mrozek said. “I think we’ve crossed the line into disrespect in a lot of regards, [especially with] skepticism.”

Now more than ever, the integrity of the details surrounding the assassination is being put on display and questioned.

The events around the assassination of Kennedy, investigated by the Warren Commission,

KENNEDY’S LAST RIDE On Nov. 22 1963, President John F. Kennedy (back left), Jacqueline Kennedy (back right), and Texas Gov. John Connally (waving) started their drive from Dallas Love Field to downtown. Photo

by Tom Dillard/The Dallas Morning News/TNS

a committee that President Lyndon B. Johnson created to investigate the assassination, reported that Oswald fired a single bullet in 1964 and that it pierced Kennedy’s suit from the rear before exiting through the front of his neck.

“A bullet had entered the base of the back of his neck slightly to the right of the spine. It traveled downward and exited from the front of the neck, causing a nick in the left lower portion of the knot in the President’s necktie. Before the shooting started, Governor Connally had been facing toward the crowd on the right.

He started to turn toward the left and suddenly felt a blow on his back,” as stated in the Warren Commission Report: Chapter One: Summary and Conclusions.

However, upper school proctor and substitute teacher Alison McClelland has a different view of the story from most. McClelland’s father, Dr. Robert N. McClelland, was one of the four house surgeons at Parkland Memorial Hospital on Nov. 22, 1963, the day of Kennedy’s assassination.

According to McClelland, her father was giving a lecture that morning when a medical resident came frantically knocking at the conference room door and told him he was needed immediately in the emergency room—the President had been shot. Dr. McClelland rushed to the emergency room and examined the president’s bullet wound in his head for 10 minutes.

“Because of where [my] dad was positioned, directly above JFK’s head, that day in trauma room one, he had a view of [the president’s] head wound that the other surgeons did not have,” McClelland said. “From

what he saw up close, he felt that the gunshot to [his] head had to come from in front, rather than behind.”

Dr. McClelland was one of the few witnesses who, for decades, continued to stand by the belief that Kennedy had been shot from the front. “[He] refused to change his story over the next 40 or 50 years,” McClelland said. “He was often singled out, many times, in a very derogatory way, and dad was and still is recognized today as an extraordinary surgeon, teacher and pioneer.”

One of Mrozek’s AP U.S. history students, junior Courtney Del-Cid, believes that the release of these documents benefits the public and makes important historical information accessible.

“I think it is great that Trump is releasing these documents because it gives the world a different perspective on the pressures the government faces and the number of decisions they have to make daily that affect the country as a whole,” Del-Cid said. “But these decisions, like killing nationally recognized leaders, were something that almost everyone was blindsided by.”

Subjectivity has enabled society to develop its conspiracy theories and interpretations, much like the public is doing regarding the released files.

Mrozek believes history is essential because of the way it initiates subjectivity and interpretation.

“The good news is that one of the things that makes history interesting is the interpretive piece of it,” Mrozek said.

“The bad news is that it is really difficult to come up and find uncontroversial evidence that everybody is going to take.”

Paying the price: the fall of 23andMe, personal privacy Concerns arise over the selling of personal information, DNA Josephine Holmes | Arts editor

I

t was simple: $99, a few clicks and a package at the door. A strand of hair or a cheek swab held secrets of one’s genetic heritage.

But the consequences of those quick swabs and statistics were deeper than many anticipated.

On March 24, 23andMe, the company that uses people’s genotypes to analyze their DNA, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which meant the company’s 15 million customers’ DNA was in jeopardy. With the threat of their genetic information being sold to the highest bidder or undisclosed agreements with various companies, concerns about data privacy quickly escalated. As people began to realize their data might not be as secure as they had believed, they quickly began to remove their information from the site, citing dubious legality and ethical concerns. Ethics teacher and History Department Chair Bryan Cupp believes that the rights to a person’s genetic information lie mainly with the consumer, not the corporation.

“I still think, no matter what, users' genetic data is important,” Cupp said. “Private data should not be used for economic matters in that way, particularly in this case.”

According to CNBC, 23andMe has lost 98 percent of its original $6 billion value. As the company descended the stock market, its bankruptcy was declared. And while the plethora of customers is concerned about their data, this fall also compromises the workers'

livelihoods.

“Chapter 11 [bankruptcy] is restructuring, where the company continues to operate but usually under a court-approved restructuring plan,” upper school business, entrepreneurship and marketing network coordinator Amy Livingston said. "It will attempt to cut costs or perhaps sell off part of it to pay its debts. Employees may lose jobs, investors may lose money and creditors may not get fully repaid.”

A key issue often brought up when discussing changing ownership of a person’s information is how a company can exploit a person’s data and personal information, especially DNA, which contains knowledge and insights that someone may not even know about themselves, such as preferences or trends. Numerous companies have used people’s DNA for advertising. A few years ago, as this DNA fad took off, Spotify curated playlists based on a listener’s DNA, and Airbnb created cultural trips based on a person’s heritage through a partnership with 23andMe. Companies and the internet are able to confine people to a box or type, especially when selling this data for advertising or other business purposes. Nowadays, one’s identity and reputation are even more vulnerable with the trend of sharing personal data, whether that be DNA or preferences. “[People can] post whatever they want, opinions or whatever, but they should be considerate about the fact that future colleges, employers [and] companies in general, will be able to pull up anything that is posted and you could be judged or even not make it

AUCTION FLOOR People’s DNA and personal information is made vulnerable as companies auction off their consumers’ information to the highest bidder, often with the consumer unaware. “We put so much stock into social media that it can certainly have negative reprecussions,” ethics teacher Bryan Cupp said. “We are moving into a world where privacy is less and less available.”

Illustration by Josephine Holmes

through an application process because of what you posted. That information [stays] with your reputation,” sophomore Jordan Johnson said.

“What’s acceptable in society today might not be acceptable in society in the future.”

In the rising digital age, it has become common for people to overshare online.

Whether it is submitting DNA to an ancestry company or posting photos to social media, there are several ways for people to overshare online, which could put their future, reputation or personal information at risk. The question arises: once a person agrees to the privacy policy online, how much of themselves do they truly own?

“I think in general, people should always be skeptical of companies. It's your information. I do, however, think that companies shouldn't sell your information and shouldn't collect [data] more than they are open about,” Johnson said. “They should tell you all of the information they're

collecting, who they're sending it to and what they're using it for, but overall, people should be cognizant of the information they're sharing.”

As the responsibility and ownership of people’s data and information shift between the hands of the company and the consumer, a common problem emerges: literacy.

When privacy choices pop up when clicking onto a website, the easiest solution for most is to simply consent, but how much of that choice is fair?

“Part of the challenge is that with software updates on your phone, the familiarity with all those legal terms or what the changes are and [its] technicality is beyond the average individual, myself included,” Cupp said. “So what we tend to do is just click. And the problem is that companies also know that. In their eyes, they are being fully transparent, but at the same time, are they truly giving sufficient information and [delivering it] in an understandable way to the consumer?”

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Life

High school sophomore goes off to college Rising junior Wendy Chen will be a freshman once again, this time at UNT

Gabriella Loewen-Eells and Carter Maddox | Staff writers

W

hile her classmates are becoming juniors, sophomore Wendy Chen is starting over as a freshman once again.

However, this is not the result of a failing grade.

In fact, Chen scored in the 95th percentile on the PSAT, and soon after, promotional emails began coming in. One thing led to another, and Chen is now enrolled in the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science program at the University of North Texas.

“TAMS is an opportunity for high schoolers at UNT,” Chen said. “It's a pre-college program that allows you to take the UNT classes”.

By doing so, students earn college credits and are co-enrolled as high school juniors and college freshmen. After two years in the system, students are awarded a high school diploma, and their first two years of college are geared towards a bachelor’s degree.

“I wasn't entirely sure if I wanted to go, even if I got in,” Chen said. “But then I thought it was pretty cool that [I] could get college credit.”

The idea of accumulating two full years’ worth of college credits sounded attractive to Chen, especially as a student on an accelerated track. Because of this, she applied in October of 2024 and was eventually accepted in December. Applying wasn’t

something she could do on a whim; it required four letters of recommendation and four supplemental essays.

“Wendy is a conscientious student who consistently approaches her work with care and dedication,” Maggie Ferris, Chen’s AP Calculus AB teacher who wrote one of her recommendation letters, said. “She completes her assignments thoughtfully and is attentive and eager to learn in the classroom.”

Chen is already taking advanced courses typically taken by upperclassmen, such as AP Calculus. As an incoming TAMS student, such rigorous classes largely prepare students for the college-level coursework offered in their curriculum.

Furthermore, she’s active in multiple extracurriculars, such as the robotics club, investment club and chess club. Outside of school, Chen also plays piano and runs a small business.

“I also resell clothes on Poshmark and eBay. I've been doing it for a while,” Chen said.

“It's something I first started doing because I wanted to clear out my closet, but [since] then, it expanded.”

On top of this, she is committed to community service and has earned two Presidential Service Awards. Chen received the Silver Award for the 2023-24 school year with 75 hours of service, and the Bronze Award for the 2024-25 school year with 100 hours of service.

Even less common than Chen’s high school achievements is the opportunity to

200 average number of students accepted to the TAMS program at UNT each year

PRACTICE IS INTEGRAL TO PERFECTION During a quick review before her AP Calculus AB quiz on April 30, sophomore Wendy Chen works through a problem with her math teacher Maggie Ferris.

"The review packets that she hands out in class [and meeting with her] help me clear up any last-minute questions that I can't answer myself," Chen said.

Photo by Gabriella Loewen-Eells

I wasn't entirely sure if I wanted to go, even if I got in.

But then I thought it was pretty cool that [I] could get college credit.

Wendy Chen Sophomore

95 the lowest average grade for students admitted into TAMS at UNT

head to college as a 16-yearold high school student.

“The acceptance rate is around 25 percent, and they have a graduating class of about 250 people,” Chen said.

Most students begin college around age 18. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Chen is among the 3 percent of students who are able to accelerate their journey. This opportunity doesn’t come to many—only some colleges, such as Dallas College, Tarrant County College and others have programs for gifted high school students.

“It is weird, [and] I’ll have to get used to it,” senior Vivian Chen, Wendy's older sister, said. “[I would have liked to see her] become a senior at ESD and follow through with the ESD traditions.”

As the oldest child, Vivian feels a sense of responsibility to guide Wendy through the high school and college application process, and originally felt that Wendy should stay at ESD. “I thought Wendy would benefit so much more from continuing at ESD,” Vivian said.

“She has so many friends and there's so much potential.”

However, TAMS could provide Wendy with opportunities that would foster her growth and help her succeed to her fullest potential. Although this was her initial position, Vivian soon realized that what worked best for her might not be the best decision for her younger sister.

“I like seeing things laid out in front of me,” Vivian said. “[These programs] are

not in the books for me.”

Vivian was the first in her family to attend ESD. Now, the sisters are on track to graduate from college in the same year–2029–and the idea of graduating the same year as her little sister proves to be an odd feeling for Vivian.

“My mom was not very supportive at first,” Wendy said. “She wanted two more years with me.”

Although they were previously skeptical, both of Wendy’s parents are now fully supportive. They believe it is a good opportunity and are excited about her future. Wendy herself also feels a mix of excitement and nervousness.

As a boarding-only program, Chen will live on campus starting Aug. 7, in the TAMS dorms on UNT's campus and has already found a roommate. Some students opt to enroll in one of various academic tracks, which specialize in topics such as Computer Science & Mathematics, Music, Visual Arts & Design, Engineering and more, but Chen has chosen to follow the general track, which provides students with a strong foundation in math and science courses most related to preparing for health and medical schools. This includes classes such as biology, chemistry and physics, as well as seminar, political science and other math, history and English classes.

“The emotions and sadness of leaving ESD obviously hit harder as we get closer to the end of the year,” Wendy said.

“However, I’m excited for my freedom next year.”

20 or more variables are considered when making TAMS admissions decisions SOURCE: Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science

09

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

May 9, 2025

With wings wide open: senior send-offs Seniors spend their last year as Eagles, make memories as a class Elizabeth Frances, Lauren George and Isabella Villegas | Staff writers

O

n a rainy afternoon, senior Lyle Hawkins sits anxiously atop the dunk tank, hoping to avoid the cold water below.

Seconds later, with a loud splash, she drops into the frigid water—a fitting start to the many memorable celebrations marking the end of the seniors’ high school journey, from the opening retreat to their final trip to Wolf Run. On April 2, the senior class took their final trip to Wolf Run. From water balloons to potato sack races, fajitas and dunk tanks, the senior class shared laughs and left with moments they will reminisce on when they graduate.

“I got in the dunk tank, and my friend Tessa hit the [target],” Hawkins said. “The water was freezing.”

Senior Dean Marcela Garcini, alongside the parents association, coordinated the final senior Rally Day of the school year. The plan to take the seniors to Wolf Run for their last Rally Day originated two years ago; however, it was not possible due to insufficient funds.

“It also has to do with [the] budget,” Garcini said. “I saved a little bit of money from the retreat. The thing that helped me [the most] was the parents’ association.”

Senior Thomas Barrow believes that during the last stretch of the year, the graduating class should just enjoy the final time they have together.

“I think we've all just worked so hard to get to this point in our lives that we're ready to cherish the last

moments we have with our grade,” Barrow said. “It's such a small grade, too, so we're very tight-knit with everything.”

Senior Jack Ray wishes that he had gotten closer to those outside of his friend group earlier in his high school years.

“I would have tried to become better friends with some of the people that I wasn't [close with] earlier,” Ray said. “Maybe [in] sophomore or junior year, [I should’ve] tried to reach out a little more [and] become closer with my advisees. Time just runs out so fast.”

Along with the senior advisors, the parents on the Rally Day committee went with the seniors to Wolf Run. Senior Ella Ferguson was joined by her parents, Hannah ‘95 and Searcy Ferguson, both of whom participated in the fun themselves.

“Because my mom is on

HOLDING ONTO LAST MOMENTS A group of seniors fight for their team's victory during a game of tugof-war. The class of 2025 took a final day trip to Wolf Run on April 12.

"I had so much fun playing with my advisory during rally day," senior Addy Mayer, who is pictured on the right, said. "It was such a good bonding experience with my advisory and grade." Photo by Marcela Garcini

the Rally Day committee, and since it was our last official Rally Day, my dad wanted to join in and help my mom out with all the games,” Ferguson said.

“I like when the kids play games,” Garcini said, “[Seeing the seniors] popping the water balloons, it’s like looking at almost 18-year-olds being kids again.”

Although the trip ended smoothly, the day did not start that way—the weather worried students on the way to Wolf Run. “It was humid and kind of hot and sticky, and so we were worried that we weren't going to be able to do the activities that were planned,” Hawkins said.

The trip to Wolf Run was not the only fun activity the seniors enjoyed this year. On Aug. 17 and 18, the group went to Sky Ranch in Van, Texas, for their senior retreat. "[Going to] Sky Ranch was

new,” Assistant Head of Upper School Max Augé said. “Although we did go to YMCA the year before, Sky Ranch this year was [a new venue] and [there’s] lots to do,. We [have gotten] lots of positive feedback.”

The activities at Sky Ranch included swimming, zip-lining, the blob and a pool party.

“I think that the main difference is how the Wolf Run trip felt like a lot more of a celebration than the senior retreat did,” Ella said. “[Wolf Run was] a celebration of how far into the year we've made it and how close we've all become these past four years.”

Augé emphasized the importance of senior celebrations by comparing the experience to runner Roger Banister, who completed the first sub-four-minute mile in 1954.

“We are [in] the fourth quarter [when] you begin to get a surge of adrenaline, and you realize that the end is near,” Augé said. “So in a way, all those end-of-year events help boost you and make sure that you, on one hand, celebrate how far you've come.

On the other hand, [you] spend more time with your peers [and] classmates that you may not see for a while, [or] forever, and you really are celebrating the end of your young adulthood.”

While for Augé it is important to celebrate accomplishments, for Garcini, the value of cherishing these joyful moments is what makes the senior events special.

“You have to be happy and enjoy the moment. When you become an adult, the story is different,” Garcini said. “At least you can remember that when you were young, you always had happy moments.”

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V42 Issue 3 | Eagle Edition | Life

May 9, 2025

READY FOR ACTION Despite a tough loss to the juniors in the initial round of the Powderpuff tournament on March 31, the sophomore team put in the work in the weeks leading up to the tournament. During four practices and two team lunches prior to the game, coaches William Elliot, Curtis Mathes and Khizer Salmon put together playbooks to give the players the confidence they needed. The week before the game, the team practiced on Founders Field and worked out strategies.

“Football is not only fun to play but also so much fun to coach,” Salmon said. “It was hard to lose, but we are going to come back stronger next year.”

ITS GO TIME On March 31, the juniors played the sophomores, and the freshmen were matched up against the seniors.

Tensions rose as the juniors and sophomores went into double overtime during the tournament’s semifinal game.

In the end, the juniors won with a two-point conversion. In the other semifinal, the seniors beat the freshman by one touchdown.

“We only had a few plays, but we executed them well,” junior team member Courtney Del-Cid said. “We went out there and showed them what it’s like to be a junior.”

THE CHAMPIONS The junior class claimed the Powderpuff trophy after a 14-11 victory against the seniors on April 3.

“Both teams put up a great fight,” junior team member Tatum Reynolds said. “I am so proud of my team and can't believe we got to experience such a fun day.”

Behind the Curtain

Design editor Betty Wheeler offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Powderpuff games―from coaching and semifinals to the championship―as the student council works to make the event thrilling for the entire student body.

Photos by Betty Wheeler

The ESD Powderpuff Mail Room THE LAST HURRAH Student body president Tessa Cabrales, along with the student council executive team, planned Powerpuff week.

The student council made sure they had all the appropriate equipment and referees for the games.

“Something hard [about planning the week] was that I knew little to nothing about football,” Cabrales said. “So when it came to rules and materials, I had to rely a lot on the student council members who knew better than [I did].”

11

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

May 9, 2025

Students turn summer into a career launchpad With internships, projects, students hustle to stand out Valentina Boltchi | Managing editor

I

nstead of heading straight to the beach or catching up on sleep, many students are trading in their summer break for a head start on their future. As the school year winds down, students gear up for an eventful summer, as many use the break as an opportunity to broaden their horizons.

Students hope to take advantage of the summer break to build their resumes, explore career interests and participate in programs. For example, juniors prepare to take on internships through the Eastin Family WORX Internship Program, which matches students with local internships that align with their demonstrated career interests. Juniors received their placements on April 4.

“I am so beyond excited for my internship, it’s the one I have been wanting for a long time,” Riley Morrison, a rising senior who matched with the Dallas Cowboys Marketing internship through WORX, said.

“I can’t wait to learn more about the business of sports since it is what I am interested in majoring in.”

The WORX program connects students with internships in various fields, including medicine, law and interior design, so everyone is given the opportunity to explore their interests and gain real-world experience.

According to a May 4 poll, 50 out of 50 seniors who participated in the WORX program said it helped them improve their work experience and resumes.

“My WORX internship was through BigOutdoor, and it was the best experience ever,” senior Tessa Cabrales said. “I

learned so much about business, and I think it really prepared me for college applications.”

In addition to internships, many students are participating in academic summer programs, leadership camps and volunteer opportunities.

Prestigious programs hosted by universities give students the chance to explore their academic interests and get a feel for college life. Some are also taking online courses to earn certifications in fields such as coding. Junior Elliot Levy looks forward to participating in the Rice Elite Tech Camp hosted by Rice University.

“I was invited to participate in the program for a week in the summer,” Levy said. “I want to pursue engineering in college, so I am excited to learn more about my interests through this program.”

Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder is another popular option for students as they get to travel to different parts of the world while also volunteering and earning community service hours.

Some of the programs include traveling to Nepal to volunteer with children’s education or to Peru to work on conserving mountain ecosystems.

“I went to Costa Rica last summer and worked with sea turtle conservation,” junior Chambers Jones, who went on a Shoulder-to-Shoulder trip last summer, said. “It was a really fun way to get a lot of community service hours.”

Some students are also using the summer to work on their sports and athletics. Junior Maggie Chein will attend Penn AC Gold, a rowing camp in Philadelphia where she’ll train with the team for three weeks before racing at the Independence Day Regatta in Philly. She’ll then participate in the US Rowing Rowfest in

PROTECT THE TURTLES Junior Chambers Jones and her friends make signs to put on beaches in Costa Rica that promote environmental consciousness during her Shoulder-to-Shoulder trip last summer. “It was an amazing experience to help the local community in Costa Rica,” Jones said. “I still keep in touch with the friends I made from the trip.”

Photo provided by Chambers Jones

Ann Arbor, Michigan.

“I’m looking forward to training on a bigger team, and I’m excited to learn to sweep [row with one oar] because we scull [row with two oars] at ESD and all colleges sweep,” Chein said. “It’s the first time in a few years that I won’t be in Canada for the summer, but it’s something new and I’m excited to try it.”

Taking initiative over the summer can be a helpful way to build a resume and show commitment outside of school for college applications.

“Summer is a great time to look into internships in potential areas of study as well as leadership programs or a job,” College Guidance Counselor Elizabeth Clark said. “It’s a great time to explore different avenues, [and it’s] definitely advisable to do something related to building a resume [in the summer].”

According to Top Tier Admissions, a college admissions counseling firm, admissions officers prefer applicants who demonstrate initiative outside the classroom. Whether

through an internship, job or project, productive summers can set students apart.

“I am doing a lot of programs this summer to appear better for colleges,” junior Mithul Nadampalli said.

“It takes up a lot of time over summer break, but it gives me a lot of valuable experience for the future.”

But for Nadampalli, the decision to spend his summer taking courses and shadowing wasn’t just about impressing colleges. Although that is a benefit, it’s also about building a strong foundation for his future. Even sophomores are looking ahead to maximize their summers and start building strong resumes and interests, such as Maanya Jyonthinagaram, who plans to get ahead before the busyness of junior year.

“I’m going to be doing a lot of volunteering this summer because I look forward to getting the Presidential Service Award,” Jyothinagaram said. “I’m also going to relax and maybe start studying for the SAT.”

We proudly support the Eagle Edition

12

Culture

V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

Viva-La-Prom Reese Rawson | Co-editor-in-chief the prom committee met twice a month for the past year to discuss the details of the dance. In these meetings, they selected a unior Stella Wynne and venue, sampled the food, booked her friends eagerly ascend entertainment and photograthe elevator at the upscale phers, coordinated raffle prizes Thompson Hotel in down- and ordered props. Once prom town Dallas, unsure of what co-chair Monica Eastin P’24, ’26 to expect as they await and ’29 proposed the “Viva Las their first prom. When the Vegas” theme, they unanimoussliding doors open, they are met ly agreed because of its lively with Las Vegas dancers, bright and fun spirit. neon lights, a vast dance floor, “I thoroughly enjoyed plancasino tables, DJ music and a ning prom with my friends and spectacular night ahead. co-chairs,” Eastin said. “The VeApril 5 marked the annual gas theme was awesome and prom for the junior and senior we loved coming up with all the classes. Planned by four junior ideas to make it an amazing moms since March 2024, the night to remember for the judance came together seamlessly niors and seniors.” and was themed “Viva Las Vegas.”

The seniors arrived at 7 p.m., “After spending all day get- 30 minutes before the juniors, ting ready for the dance, I nearly to have their mother-son and facouldn’t hold back my excite- ther-daughter dances. Because ment,” Wynne said. “Since it was prom marked the seniors’ last my first time attending [prom], official school dance, it was a my expectations were definitely sentimental time for students higher than for any other school preparing to leave the nest. The dance.” mothers and sons danced to “You’ll Be In My Heart,” by Phil Collins, and the fathers and daughters danced to “My Girl,”

by The Temptations, highlighting the bittersweet emotions of the evening.

“It was truly a special experiAll the ence dancing with my mom, and upperclassmen these memories will last a lifewere right when time,” Provost said. “Plus, seeing my friends and their moms they said prom is dancing made me soak up the the best dance moment even more.”

Not only did prom consist of the year. This of dancing and gambling, but a week at school, we raffle also occurred throughout the night, giving attendees the haven’t been able chance to win prizes, includto stop talking about ing Miron Crosby boots, Roller Rabbit pajamas and various gift how fun it was. I cards to restaurants around Dalcannot wait for [next las. Junior Blake Gubert won NFL year’s] dance. tickets to go to a Cowboys game this fall.

“When the DJ called my name Stella Wynne [saying that I had] won [a raffle], Junior I was shocked,” Gubert said. “I feel so lucky and am looking forward to seeing the Cowboys play, especially because they are one of my favorite teams.”

When it comes to school dances, ESD goes all out. With the Props representing Las Ve- nonstop dancing, casino games gas—including gambling tables and general excitement, it was with fake money, raffles, large hard for some students to leave martini glasses and expansive when the clock hit 10:30 p.m. centerpieces—filled the ball- Thanks to the intricate attention room. to detail and the effort put in by “I was very impressed when the planning committee, calling I walked into prom because of it a night to remember would be how eloquently it was set up,” an understatement. senior Jack Provost said. “I loved “All the upperclassmen were the DJ and the dance party and right when they said prom is the even did some gambling.” best dance of the year,” Wynne Many students don’t real- said. “This week at school, we ize how much time and effort haven’t been able to stop talking go into the behind-the-scenes about how fun it was. I cannot planning of prom. The moms on wait for [next year’s] dance.”

J

The Episcopal School of Dallas

crash Sweeney and Powell dating rumors

After the release of “Anyone But You,” a romantic comedy starring actors Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell on Dec. 22, 2023, viewers immediately began speculating about a relationship between the two. The chemistry was undeniable, and the press paid close attention to the time they spent together off the set. While the film wrapped almost two years ago, Sweeney and Powell still hang out as “really close friends,” according to Powell’s mother, Cyndy Powell.

However, a recent addition to the speculation caught the media’s attention when Sweeney called off her engagement with fiancé Johnathan Davino, with whom she shared a seven-year relationship. A few days after the news of the split, Sweeney attended Powell’s older sister Leslie Powell’s wedding on March 30. While nothing has been confirmed, the “friends” are closely observed by the press and fans.

Photo by (Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images/TNS)

Alix Earle's Meals in Heels TikTok influencer Alix Earle has not only used her platform of 7.1 million followers to make a living, promote brand deals and grow her online presence, but she has also utilized her influence to positively impact the Miami community. Earle recently hosted her sixth “Meals in Heels” event on April 18, in which her followers come together wearing high heels to prepare meals for those in need while enjoying a fun social event. Earle’s philanthropic efforts have proven impactful, with each event producing 3,000 meals distributed by the Caesar-Iglesias Family Foundation and Major Food Group to Miami’s most vulnerable residents.

Gaga is back!

After being the face of the pop genre in the early 2000s, Lady Gaga took a period off after telling her fans at a Toronto concert that she needed to “slow down for a moment for some healing.” Gaga took a break from releasing new music aside from starring in the 2018 rendition of “A Star Is Born,” where her hit with co-star Bradley Cooper, “Shallow,” debuted. However, Gaga has returned to releasing new music and is back and better than ever. The pop singer’s newest single released this year, “Abracadabra,” has already blown up the Billboard Music Charts at number one in the dance/pop song category. One of the first performances of this new hit was Coachella, and it received rave reviews. It is safe to say that the iconic Lady Gaga has fully returned to the music industry.

Photo by Saul Loeb/Getty Images/TNS

Festival frenzy

Stagecoach, the country and rock music festival, is always a favorite amongst popular music events of the year. This year’s festival was in Indio, California, from April 2527, and featured classic artists such as Zach Bryan, Flatland Cavalry and Luke Combs, as well as up-and-coming musicians like Dasha and Shaboozy.

The fan favorite moment and biggest hit of the festival was Luke Combs’ back-to-back surprises during his performance. Combs sang some of his greatest hits, including “Beautiful Crazy” and “When It Rains It Pours.”

Just when his fans thought it couldn't get any better, Garth Brooks, a beloved country music artist, joined him out on the stage to sing one of Brooks’ hits, “Friends In Low Places.” The duet was the cherry on top of the festival, and made the festival live up to its esteemed reputation.

Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Stagecoach/TNS

Derby day in style DANCING AWAY Juniors exit the dance and await their after-party. "My friends and I danced the entire [prom]," junior Ruby Cuccia said (pictured on the right). "When the clock hit 10:30 [p.m.], you had to practically drag us off the dance floor."

Photo provided by Stella Wynne

While the Kentucky Derby’s predictions, bets and official race are exciting, it is also a time for celebrities to display their vibrant, diverse and occasionally over-the-top outfits. The 151st Annual Kentucky Derby took place on Saturday, May 3, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, and had many fashion favorites.

The elegant, upscale attire has many different interpretations, and while celebrities are often the stars of the shows, this year, Carson Grisham, a woman from Dallas, takes the cake. Grisham made her grand entrance in a simple red dress, cardigan and high heels, but her hat was far from traditional. The widebrimmed, red hat included a rose on top, with long red tassels hanging from the sides. While feathers are normally worn on women’s headpieces, Grisham's hat, which was crafted by her mother, was extravagant and unforgettably unique.

Photo provided by Sophie Slotnik

PetPalooza

13

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

May 9, 2025

Each issue, the Eagle Edition features the most exciting pets around campus. Co-editors-in-chief Emmy Moss and Reese Rawson highlight four dogs on Senior Dog Day.

Pup Star

Pawsome Pet Katherine Clark

Matthew Charlton

Top Dog

Fur Real Friends

SENIOR SEBASTIAN GUZIK ARRIVED at Senior Dog Day with his dog and best friend, Cookie. Cookie, an all-white Maltipoo, is almost two years old, a fact evident in his boundless energy around others.

Despite still being a puppy, Cookie loves lounging on the couch and spending time with Guzik and the rest of the family.

He can spend hours relaxing in the comfort of his owners’ home.

“I loved bringing Cookie to Senior Dog Day,” Guzik said. “It was cool to see him interact with all my friends dogs.”

Although Guzik hasn’t had Cookie for long, he cherishes the time they’ve had together. Some of his favorite moments are the simplest: just hanging out and watching golf.

SENIOR KATHERINE CLARK STRUTTED onto God’s Front Yard with her one-yearold Goldendoodle, Holly, in tow. The playful pup showed off her energy, leaping, running and tackling anything, or anyone, in her path.

Holly’s favorite activities include racing around Clark’s backyard and playing fetch, both of which help her burn off energy and give Clark a chance to bond with her.

“It was so fun bringing my dog to school and it is such a special memory that we will always remember,” Clark said. “I am going to miss Holly so much next year because she is always so sweet and greets me every time I get home.”

When they're not in the backyard, Clark and Holly enjoy long walks around the neighborhood. It’s one of the things she says she’ll miss most when she heads off to college.

SENIOR MATTHEW CHARLTON AND HIS rescue dog, Revy, stepped into Senior Dog Day with confidence and excitement. A fan favorite among the senior class, Revy was eager to see the familiar faces of Charlton’s friends and their dogs.

Because Revy is a rescue, his exact breed is unknown, but his unique personality shines through. Every summer, Charlton takes him to Colorado, where they hike mountain trails and explore the outdoors together.

“Senior Dog Day was special because my friends got to see [Revy], and I got to meet other people’s dogs,” Charlton said.

“It was really cool to bring all of our dogs together.”

Charlton is already planning to bring Revy back to Colorado this summer for another adventure. Get ready, Colorado, your favorite furry friend is coming back to town.

WHITE AND BLACK PUFFS MADE THEIR way down the chapel steps, and to the senior class’s surprise, they were senior Phoebe McMillan’s Sheepadoodles.

Despite their fluffy, mature appearance, Birdie is only four years old, and Daisy is six.

“I loved bringing my dogs to [Senior Dog Day] because it was so sweet seeing the little kids playing with them and petting them,” McMillan said. “I think Daisy and Birdie had fun too because they love all my friends and got to play with the other dogs.”

Like Charlton, McMillan brings her dogs to Colorado each summer. In Crested Butte, Birdie and Daisy enjoy hiking and soaking up the mountain sun. In Dallas, McMillan finds joy in taking them on long car rides, where they gaze out the window and watch the world pass by.

Sebastian Guzik

Pheobe McMillan

14

V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Life

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Junior prevails at speech and debate district qualifier Arya Ajith secures a place in the 2025 National Speech and Debate Tournament

Stella Bartley | Web editor

I

n a crowded auditorium, junior Arya Ajith stands confidently at the podium. Her voice is steady and clear as she delivers a powerful argument to the audience. What she doesn’t know yet is that her skills and determination are about to pay off. She will soon receive the news that she successfully qualified for two events at the 2025 National Speech and Debate Tournament.

Ajith competed at the National Speech and Debate District Qualifier on Feb 26.

Before her astonishing debate performance, Ajith prepared by diving deep into research, spending late nights refining her argument with her coach Adam Walsh, who is the upper school government teacher and Leadership, Government and Public Policy Network Coordinator.

“I do a ton of studying before tournaments,” Ajith said.

“I often stay up late talking to Mr. Walsh, sharing ideas and getting feedback to improve my [speech].”

Ajith is not new to the debate scene and has learned how to properly compose herself before tournaments. In addition to preparing academically, she also sets aside time to take care of herself physically and emotionally before attending her tournaments.

“Staying hydrated real-

ly helps me to relieve some stress,” Ajith said. “Drinking a ton of water helps me keep my head clear and stay focused on debating.”

Along with her research and physical preparation, Ajith places an emphasis on getting into the right mental headspace before participating in tournaments.

“Honestly, it sounds kind of weird, but I just try to make everything funny [while debating],” Ajith said. “I try to make every moment light-hearted [while] incorporating jokes into my speech.”

However, although Ajith prepared extensively for the 2025 National Speech and Debate Tournament, she found herself up against one of the most challenging debates of her career due to the harsh conditions she faced.

“It was one of the most insane final rounds of my life,” Ajith said. “It was four hours long, and the room was like 98 degrees. I was literally about to walk out since it was already 11 at night.”

Despite the challenges presented while competing in the 2025 National Speech and Debate Tournament, Ajith persevered, winning the final round for herself and also for her inner child, who had dreamt of this moment for years.

“I started actually competing in [speech and debate] when I was in the sixth grade,” Ajith said. “Honestly, I was just a very chatty child growing up, and I wanted to make a

6,700 number of students who participated in the 2025 National Speech & Debate Tournament

EXCITEMENT FOR NATIONALS Junior Arya Ajith stands proudly with her speech and debate award at the National Speech and Debate District Qualifer. "I am so excited to compete at the 2025 National Speech and Debate Tournament," Ajith said. "It is an honor to qualify for such a major event."

Photo provided by Arya Ajith

Arya already had the skills she needed to succeed, what grew throughout this season was her voice and confidence.

Adam Walsh

Upper school government teacher and Leadership, Government and Public Policy Network Coordinator

1,500 number of schools that partcipaed in the 2025 National Speech & Debate Tournament

[difference].”

Ajith has always had a natural ability to communicate with those around her.

Despite this, participating in speech and debate undoubtedly played a major role in enhancing Ajith’s communication skills.

“I think I have always had pretty good communication skills,” Ajith said. “Being in [speech and debate] really contributed to making them better and a lot more refined, though.”

Walsh confirms that although Ajith has always had the ability to debate, over the years her performance has greatly improved.

“Arya already had the skills needed to succeed,” Walsh said. “What grew throughout [this] season was her voice and confidence. She became much confident in what she had to say and in her sense that it mattered.”

Ajith has been involved in speech and debate since the sixth grade, and her first experience competing for ESD was in the eighth grade, nearing the end of her middle school career.

“I [started out] doing speech and debate outside of school,” Ajith said. “So, ESD wasn't really involved in my speech and debate journey up until I was in the eighth grade. That's when I really started getting into it.”

Walsh testifies to Ajith’s dedication when it comes to speech and debate, high-

lighting the time and effort she has put into the art of debate since she was young.

“Arya has put in time since the [sixth] grade to improve her skills,” Walsh said.

“That is what makes her a superior debater. [Speech and debate] is a competition that is all about effort and practice.”

As a result of being invested in speech and debate for six years, Ajith has found that she has become much more aware of societal and political issues throughout her country. “[Speech and debate] obviously makes you very aware of a lot of social and political issues in the world,” Ajith said. “Learning about these [affairs] has definitely influenced what I want to do in my future career.”

After six years of competing in speech and debate tournaments, Ajith has discovered that one of the most important lessons she has gained isn’t about debating itself but rather the social interactions that come along with attending tournaments.

“One thing I have learned from speech and debate is that you can make friends just about anywhere,” Ajith said. “A lot of the time, [people] assume that speech and debate is just about academics and competing, but it’s also super social. It's a great environment to meet new people and make new friends as well.”

42 number of national champions in the 2025 National Speech & Debate Tournament

Source: Speechanddebate.org

May 9, 2025

Arts

15

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Arts

Coffee House brews coffee, creativity Itinerary's 44th issue is distributed to the community, students share their original work

FALL PLAY REHEARSAL Senior Dana Friedrich sits on the Bray Theater stage and reads her poem, "The Angst of Aging," in front of the audience on April 26 during Coffee House. Her piece was one of 13 poems published in this year's Itinerary. "[The poem is] about all of the issues I have had growing up and having to leave behind the eassy part of childhood," Friedrich said. Photo by Hayden Houston

Hayden Houston, McCall Moore and Harley West | Staff writers

M

ost would think the smell of coffee would lure people into Coffee House, but on Saturday, April 26, guests who attended the 37th student-run Coffee House stepped into the Frank Building atrium and were greeted by a different aroma—one of warm mac and cheese and chocolate chip cookies.

After enjoying the food, guests entered the Bray Theater, where this year's Itinerary was revealed. Sophomore Kate Lewis, who hosted the event, welcomed the audience and added her spin to Hamilton’s traditional “The Reynolds Pamphlet” song. The 13 students presenting during the event were excited to reveal their original artwork to the ESD community.

“I was a little bit nervous to go up and talk,” sophomore Emory Turner, who presented a film, said. “But it was really fun getting to do this event, and I'll probably do it [again] next year.”

Turner showcased her original film, “Supercut,” about the phases of friendships. She wanted to reveal one of her films that went along with the bright colors of this year’s Itinerary’s theme: Duality.

This was the first year that Itinerary had two coeditors-in-chief: senior editors Brooke Ebner and Sofia Mercado. To reflect this change, the staff decided to create a contrast between dull and bold by dividing the magazine into two sections.

This duality highlighted the difference between brighter, more intense work and more subdued pieces. The editors used half circles on the cover pages that met in the middle of the magazine to highlight the dual effect.

“We brought our ideas together when making the two different sections,” Ebner said. “We tried to create dual effects by having more dull and less emotional sections and brighter, more intense

sections”.

The unveiling of the Itinerary magazine has occurred every year at Coffee House since the event was established in 1988. The magazine features students' creative work, such as prose, poetry, film, photography, sculpture, painting and original songs.

Each piece goes through a selective process to fit with the year's theme.

The magazine staff decides which pieces should be featured from the year. The staff anonymously ranks all pieces on a scale of 1-10. After the ranking, Ebner and Mercado insert the pieces with the highest rankings into the magazine. From then on, the heads of communication reach out to students whose work was chosen for the magazine to ask if they would like to present it at Coffee House.

This year, Daniella Woodhouse and Valentina Boltchi asked students with original films and songs to feature their work at the event because they couldn’t be featured in the magazine itself. Turner was one of the two films displayed at the coffee house event.

“My favorite part was probably getting to talk with everybody on the staff” Turner said The audience buzzed with excitement and applauded as students presented throughout the evening. Students were drawn to the event by the extra credit offered by the English department, but after attending, they appreciated the experience.

“I was driven by the extra credit opportunity, but it was interesting to hear all of the poetry, and it inspired me to read more of it,” freshman Max Barrow said. “I also enjoyed the films [because] they were really good.”

Heather Cernoch, English teacher and Itinerary’s sponsor, has been involved in this event for 10 years. When she applied for a position as an English teacher, she was told that her job included being

I think the event puts into perspective how great of a community we have, but also the boundless opportunities ESD has to offer its students, Daniella Woodhouse Senior

in charge of the Itinerary and the Coffee House.

“I realized [at] that moment how special Coffee House was and how important tradition is to us at ESD,” Cernoch said. “Being able to go back to [ESD’s] founding and think about how long these traditions have been in place is a pretty cool thing, and so I'm thrilled to be able to be a part of that history and tradition to keep it going.”

The first Itinerary magazine was published in 1981; however, the first Coffee House wasn’t hosted until six years later in 1987. For the first few years, students sat in a circle and shared their original poetry, but as the school expanded, the event did as well and was eventually moved to the Bray Theater.

Former middle school substitute teacher Beth Ellsberry ’83 was one of the original Itinerary editors. Her staff chose the name Itinerary because it means guidebook.

“I was pleased to have had a small part in the initial groundwork for Itinerary,” Ellsberry said. “I am proud of what the magazine has become and how it represents our school.”

Thirty-seven years later, students and staff are still coming together to enjoy cups of coffee, witness the reveal of the Itinerary and see their peers work. As the event came to a close, cameras clicked and smiles appeared throughout the atrium. The final sips of coffee were consumed, and the last bites of mac and cheese were taken. This event brings the community together and allows students to showcase their work, as it is a fundamental part of the ESD tradition.

“I think the event puts into perspective how great of a community we have, but also the boundless opportunities ESD has to offer its students,” Woodhouse said. “Students are able to express their writing over the course of high school.”

ORIGIN OF COFFEE HOUSES DATES BACK TO THE 15TH CENTURY The first recorded Coffee House was named Kiva Han and took place in Constantinople, Turkey According to the University of Delaware, the idea of a Coffee House dates back to the 1400s. In early times, coffee was only available to those with wealth, however, the creation of coffeehouses defied social norms and allowed anyone to engage in the social atmosphere, with freshly brewed coffee being served to all. The environment was an alternative to socializing in bars because Muslims weren’t allowed to drink liquor.

These venues were known not only for socializing but for sharing intellectual ideas.

Coffeehouses began to grow, and some people started to feel that the effects of coffee were insufficient for the human body. Those in high authority, whether it was political or religious power, began to view coffee houses as a place of birthing knowledge, which made them feel threatened by that idea.

These ideas led to the closing of coffee houses, but by then, the idea had spread all over Europe.

Today, Coffee Houses around the world still hold the same values and purposes to bring people together.

16 The Episcopal School of Dallas

V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle

THE MASK THAT NEVER CAME OFF

IT IS SAFE TO SAY THAT ANYONE WHO LIVED THROUGH THE COVID PANDEMIC CAME OUT WITH A DIFFERENT OUTLOOK ON LIFE THAN THEY DID GOING IN. WHAT THE WORLD THOUGHT WOULD BE A SIMPLE TWOWEEK QUARANTINE TURNED OUT TO BE THREE YEARS OF UNBEARABLE ISOLATION. ACCORDING TO THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS WERE MOST AFFECTED ON A SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SCALE.

Story and photo illustrations by Annabel Brown | Video editor Margot Cathey | Sports editor Beau McKnight | Life editor

T

he average baby born in 2020 entered a world of immediate quarantine. In times when they should have experienced the excitement of growing up and being surrounded by friends and family, they instead experienced a silent, isolated world.

Events that are typically milestones in a child’s early years, like meeting grandparents and friends, attending birthday parties and visiting daycare, were missed. According to the Thirty Million Words Center for Early Learning and Public Health, a baby’s brain is like a sponge that absorbs as much knowledge and information as it can gather from its surroundings, ultimately gaining a consciousness based on its exposure to certain environments and behaviors. During the quarantine period beginning on Jan. 31, 2020, absorption was nearly impossible due to masks and small pools of adults and people around them.

Eve Wiley, Director of Clinical Training at the Housson Center of Psychological and Educational Services sees children whose social and emotional learning has been hindered by Covid.

“Even when you’re in the grocery store and someone comments on how cute they are [matters],” Wiley said. “It’s all these micro social interactions [that matter].”

In some cases, this lack of play time spent with other children and social interactions could be compensated for by growing up during the quarantine with siblings, keeping one another occupied.

“The one factor that has been a pretty good predictor is if they had siblings, then they exhibit a higher level of emotional intelligence because they had lots of sibling conflict and rivalry,” Wiley said. “So much conflict resolution skills and communication is really learned with your siblings.”

When these now 5-year-olds were finally able to live normally and interact with other children, parents and educators observed serious developmental setbacks caused by the lockdown. According to First Things First, an educational website for parents on child development, the most important years for child development are from birth to age five.

“We did speech therapy with [my child],” a pediatric nurse and mother to a “Covid baby,” Anne Jameson*, said. “But again, it was behind masks, and she had a clear mask on, [so] it would get fogged. I don’t know how much good it really did.”

Psychologists often measure childhood development with Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget’s stages of cognitive development. These stages include sensorimotor, age 0-2; preoperational, ages 2 to 7; concrete operational, ages 7-11 and formal operational, age 12+.

These newborns at the time were in Piaget’s “sensorimotor” stage of their cognitive development—characterized by learning the world through looking, listening and planting the seeds for language development—missed out on crucial interactions that typically facilitate an on-wtrack development in this stage.

“It is more challenging to fully develop the cognitive abilities associated with Piaget’s stages if they were not acquired during the appropriate stage,” AP Psychology teacher Amy Henderson said. “With Piaget’s stages, they

build on each other, s op if the previous sta According to an a Saul McLeod, a qualifi years of experience, t et’s stages, stages ar tion, interaction with and equilibration.

While Covid did no certainly had an imp periences and equilib dren spent their early “When we think of opment, modeling is are trying to pick up behaviors that lead t an evolutionary purp Speech was one of most affected, result impediments, select communicating.

“When [children] h getting the visual mo mation, and so that de a] widening language cates that children as demic exhibited an in development, sugges may have hindered ea Modeling has the m ment, so not being a interpret behavior struggle for these in babies, who are now day, have difficulty ing how anger and jo their peers’ faces. Th “read the room,” a lo is non-existent.

Women looking to h during Covid realized mental setbacks tha borns could have fac major decrease in th According to the U Census Bureau, the b clined by 4 percent 2020, which is a sig from other years; for birth rate rose by on the past year, illumin nificance of a four pe As new parents stresses of a pande first time, most had to unexpected circum put an extra effort t child’s development.

Many mothers, inc Jameson*, had to fi bring as much norm child’s life as possib that was far from nor “We did a lot of pla wore masks while [d thing,” Jameson* sa parties and [social were outside.”

In 2025, many par ucators are having to make up for lost time “If an earlier stage an adult, they may h of learning or proble ever, it is not imposs degree later on in lif conscious effort.”

While it may requir pandemic, learning are working to level t perienced these socia According to Brigh with centers all arou parent can help their to social interactions first. These experienc time, as the effects o childhood and into la “In the preoperatio tric,” Henderson said or experiences empa That may contribute adult or even into adu

NAVIGATING ADOLE Among the most ov schoolers according t entering elementary vent endured a block building blocks of frie are laid. Post-Covid, t vastly different situat adolescent years with “[During Covid, on ences explored] was e hire more people spe of building on resilie ing that concept of r Wiley said. “For that schoolers, it was har

e Edition | In Depth

dysregulations], anger [and] limited emotional vocabulary. So I think these were kind of all the unintended consequences from that social limitation, and I really don’t think we’ll see the full effects of this for years, which is shocking.”

Due to these children being pulled away from in-person classrooms, social activities and regular elementary fundamentals, there are lingering effects of disruptions that ot interrupt biological maturation, it are becoming increasingly more noticeable to educators pact on the environment, social ex- and learning specialists.

“I think the biggest thing, even when kids went back brations that infants and young chilinto in-person learning, [was the masks],” Wiley said. y years in.

Piaget and the origins of child devel- “Preschools tried to do a clear mask because they recogs the biggest part,” Wiley said. “Kids nized the importance of [facial representation]. For them, inconsistencies between words and when they had a mask, they weren’t necessarily getting to a level of hypervigilance. It serves the visual modeling to learn early language formation, and so they had delayed language acquisition, and there pose.” f the areas of development that was was a widening language gap.”

As post-Covid elementary schoolers roll into their midting in children today with speech tive mutism and overall difficulty dle school years, learning specialists have observed a rise in diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety and depression. Whether had a mask, they weren’t necessarily this increase reflects a genuine surge in cases or imodeling to learn early language for- proved diagnostic practices remains a subject of ongoing elayed language acquisition, [caused debate.

“The kids with learning disorders suffered the most, e gap,” Wiley said. “The research indissessed at 18 months during the pan- and we are really starting to see that in the middle school increased risk of impaired language ages, but I’ve seen [progress] in schools with how they’ve sting that limited social exposure tried to overcompensate by hiring more literacy experts,” Wiley said. “We could have seen an increase in ADHD, but arly language skills.” most influence on a child’s develop- when you have kids exposed to online and virtual learnable to read facial expressions and ing, their [brains don’t] work well [at this age] anyway.”

With Covid online learning takwas another ing place for about a year, current nfants. These middle schoolers were not given w toddlers tothe correct amount of exposure to distinguishtypical learning. Their attention joy appear on span was significantly altered, heir ability to which created prolonged effects ot of the time, [One of the greatest seen today.

“For example, [during online have children behavioral differences learning], my fourth grader would d the developexplored] was emotional just close his computer and go at their newfishing, so keeping their attention ced, causing a dysregulation. I’ve had the whole time [was] hard,” Wiley he birth rate. to hire more people said. “The assumption was that in United States specifically for social skills a lot of studies, with parents being birth rate dehome, they would have more time from 2019 to that do lots of building to read, more time to play [and] gnificant drop on resiliency and you more intervention, but with all the r instance, the environmental and parental stress, ne percent in know, kind of exploring they ended up falling even more nating the sigthat concept of rejection, behind.” ercent drop.

Alongside Covid, kids are fallendured the sensitivity and dysphoria ing behind in school due to online emic for the and perspectives, helps learning and a lack of in-person o adapt to the education and technology. Devices mstances and enrich a classroom have become more normalized and towards their experience. almost overused, leading to an obsession and constant need for such cluding Anne usage. Through Covid, children find ways to Eve Wiley tended to become device-bound, malcy to her Director of Clinical Training at the Housson not allowing them to thrive withble, in a time Center of Psychological and Educational Services out one. rmal. and ESD parent.

“I think that there was a lot of unay dates [and] intentional reinforcement enabled doing] everybecause of screen time,” Wiley said. aid. “Birthday “Lots of us joked about having such interactions] respect for teachers when you’re trying to monitor online school. rents and edo play a game of catch-up, trying to The level of stress [and] cortisol [changed] the family system, so it was easier to just let the IPAD babysit.” e and experiences.

Online learning affects the physical and mental health e was not fully established, then as have difficulties with certain types of students tremendously, decreasing social skills, espeem solving,” Henderson said. “How- cially among middle school students. Associate Director sible to develop these skills to some of Emotional Wellness Meredith Stuelpe saw an increase fe through learning, experience and in counseling visits following the pandemic, relying heavily on the switch from online to in-person learning.

“I think what we saw in the pandemic was very little sore more effort than years before the specialists, parents and educators cialization and lots of isolation, anxiety and fear because the playing field for children who ex- [kids] didn’t know what was going to happen next, they were restricted from doing a lot of things,” Stuelpe said. al and emotional learning setbacks. ht Horizons, a child care organization “Coming out of Covid, I think it was hard for students to und the U.S., one of the best ways a figure out how to communicate and interact with each r child is by gradually exposing them other, almost like they lost a little bit of those skills. And s, even if they feel uncomfortable at [for] the people who were social during Covid, I think it ces are essential to make up for lost just made everything [a little bit more clicky for them].”

Before the pandemic, social groups and friend groups of early isolation can extend beyond were persistent, and with quarantine limiting that social ater life. onal stage, children are very egocen- interaction, the social dynamic was completely shifted. “[The pandemic] made it very hard for some students d. “If the child is not taught empathy athy, then they might not progress. to break in because students were so used to moving in to their lack of empathy as a young their groups, so I think just socially with communication and friendships, it made it more difficult,” Stuelpe said. ulthood.”

“Kids learn a lot from being with other people, you learn from your peers and that’s how you figure things out.”

ESCENCE With the constant limitation of peer interaction, midverlooked kids are current middle dle schoolers’ identities were shaped in unusual ways, to Dr. Eve Wiley. Students who were leaving developmental gaps that are typically addressed school during the pandemic’s adthrough early social learning and experiences with peers. k in foundational education, where “In adolescence, the main developmental goal is learnendship and emotional regulation ing ‘who am I,’ ‘what do I believe in’ and ‘who are my peothese children find themselves in ple,’” Stuelpe said. “When you don’t have that, I think it’s tions, attempting to navigate their very hard on kids.” h significant developmental gaps.

Although these constantly limited social interactions ne of the greatest behavioral differemotional dysregulation. I’ve had to persisted for nearly two years, middle school students ecifically for social skills that do lots have shown an increase in rates of depression and anxency and you know, kind of explor- iety due to stress about social situations and finding rejection, sensitivity and dysphoria,” friends post-pandemic. Because quarantine provided t middle age, and [current] middle such a “safe haven,” coming out of it was much harder on arder for them [with the emotional students, especially after being online for over a year.

May 9, 2025

so it is hard to continue to fully develage wasn’t met.” article on Simply Psychology by Dr. fied psychology teacher with over 18 throughout the progression of Piagre determined by biological maturah the environment, social experience

45 percent of parents of school-age children say the pandemic has had a negative impact on their child’s social skills development

42 percent of parents say their child’s mental health has been negatively affected by the pandemic

22 percent of parents report the social difficulty as a result of Covid is ongoing

th 6 th 8 to

graders report the greatest ongoing negative effects— compared to elementary and high school students—in areas such as social skills, math, reading, and science.

SOURCE: February 2025 Gallup survey

“I think you could ask anybody, especially my peers who work in hospitals, [and they would say] there was so much uncertainty, loss and restriction that year, anxiety and depression rates just skyrocketed,” Stuelpe said. “After leaving the cohorts and returning to everyone being in the classroom together, that was very challenging [with these rates as well].”

As students began to return to the classrooms post-online learning, the switch from constant technology to limited or no technology was very difficult, leading to a significant decrease in students’ attention span and focus levels.

“I think having kids maintain focus after just being on their phones or around their computer all the time was hard,” Stuelpe said. “Because during the pandemic, most people had unlimited time on their devices, so then you come back [to school] and you’re expected to pay attention and focus, I think that’s really challenging.”

ADAPTING TO POST-COVID LEARNING High school students and educators nationwide are still unknowingly experiencing the lingering effects of Covid, specifically regarding testing, mental health and social skills.

According to the Annie E Casey Foundation, a private philanthropy dedicated to giving grants to underserved persons, $31 tril­lion in U.S. eco­nom­ic activ­i­ty goes towards help­ing young peo­ple com­plete learn­ing that was set back by the pan­dem­ic. This significant spending increase is due to the continued decline in test scores and proficiency in core subjects such as math.

“Every student in the U.S. faced academic disruption that resulted in learning loss during the pandemic,” Nellie Brenan Hall, a researcher and writer for Top Tier Admissions, said. “Resulting in not just lower average testing but also loss of executive-functioning skills traditionally taught in school through schedules and scaffolding.”

According to a study conducted by the Adolescent Wellness Academy in March 2021, one in five teens experiences severe mental health struggles. With the shift to remote learning, the majority of students reported that their mental health continuously declined.

“In middle school during Covid, life was different because many policies were put in place to keep us safe, like cohorts, not going to chapel and only four people sitting at a lunch table,” sophomore Maanya Jyothinagaram said. “I had to adapt as a new student that year [too].”

Currently, high school students experience intense academic anxiety due to the unstable foundation they believe has formed due to learning loss during the pandemic. According to Bookings’ public schools, test score declines spiked when schools were closed for an extended period. Public schools were typically closed more due to their large student population, which caused less social interaction compared to private schools.

“I think private schools were able to implement better policies because they had more resources,” Jyothinagaram said. “[Private schools had] fewer students to think about and a more connected community, which made it a lot easier to manage the stress of Covid.”

These mental health and education challenges have heavily impacted public school systems, as these school districts typically have fewer resources than private ones.

“Public schools weren’t nearly as successful,” Clark Family Head of Upper School Matt Peal said. “Kids [who] have been at ESD for a long time tend to be, at times, better prepared in certain things like foundational math and reading and writing skills than some of our applicants who might be coming from the public system and [starting] high school at a private school level.”

These students, in particular, have trouble building the necessary skills, such as time management, for success in the school setting.

“Bells, routines, schedules and even reminders from staff fell by the wayside, and students struggled to manage their time and complete tasks post-Covid,” Hall said.

“Notably, teachers have increasingly struggled with the lingering effects of COVID.” A Top Tier Admissions study found that elementary and early middle school students are still significantly behind in test scores regarding foundational math and reading skills. The pressure that educators nationwide feel to close this gap from the pandemic is continually increasing, adding continuous stress on teachers.

“There was and still is a learning gap from Covid,” upper school learning support counselor Ashley Beck said.

“From my perspective, I have seen an increase in test anxiety in students since Covid.”

Olina Berley, a journalist for EdWeek, found that the impacts of Covid include a spike in student absences, deteriorating testing scores and consistent challenges with behavior and discipline practices.

“All of these effects of the pandemic significantly impact how educators feel about their profession and the future of academia,” Bern said.

Additionally, the uncertainties surrounding education funding under President Donald Trump’s administration, have increasingly concerned educators, especially with the lingering effects of Covid. The administration has threatened to cut funding and resources to public education if educators refuse to adhere to President Trump’s ideological line regarding concepts like race and gender.

Many teachers have resigned due to low pay and school budget cuts, especially in public schools. School systems and intellectuals nationwide are concerned about the future of academia. *Names have been changed to protect the anonymity of the source.

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Arts

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Featured Artist

Bauer Berkley | Photography Phenom Jack Coben and Craighton Jefferies | Podcost co-editors

Midnight Idle

To take this photo, Berkley had to park in a handicap parking space and quickly run across the street to take a photo of his car across the street.

2024 Sony a7iv camera

W

hat began as a passion project-making basketball highlight graphics for his friends on Instagram-quickly turned into something much bigger for junior Bauer Berkley.

Berkley began designing graphics for the boys basketball team’s social media page in 2023. This interest in graphic design and photography granted Berkley a new outlet for his curiosity; he created an Instagram account called “HoopsDailyNews,” where he used Pixart to create simple graphics.

“I wanted to make original content about basketball,” Berkley said. “Once I really got into it, I then began to use Photoshop.”

He first started using his younger brother’s camera “At first, I was just taking pictures of anything, games, nature, friends and whatever was around,” Berkley said.

But over time, that old camera developed into much more than a new hobby. It led to a new passion. Eventually, Berkley upgraded to his own camera and started taking photography more seriously.

“I really like the creative aspect of it,” Berkley said. “Being able to express myself through photos is a great way to [express my creativity].

That is what keeps me taking photos.”

Berkley has found his passion in sports photography. Whether it is a basketball player shooting a shot or the reactions after a big play, he is drawn to capture moments of pure emotion.

“I love sports,” Berkley said. “I love capturing that emotion, the reaction after the play, the celebration and even the frustration. That's when you feel how exciting and intense these rivalry games are.”

While Berkeley enjoys capturing sports photos, he also has an interest in taking photos of cars.

But no matter the nature of the photo, he always pays close attention to detail.

“When I am taking a photo, I [try to] have a picture in mind and take a bunch of photos to make sure I get the right one,” Berkley said. “I always try to keep my ideas in mind before I execute.”

Because of the environment and energy, Berkley’s most memorable game to capture was the ESD vs. St. Mark’s football game on Wednesday Nov. 11, 2023, but he also enjoys taking pictures at all of ESD’s football games.

When the ESD Eagles played the Fort Worth All Saints in The Star, on Sept. 21, 2024, Berkley took photos at that game.

“It was awesome, I had to have my backpack searched and also needed the correct credentials to get down onto the field,” Berkley said. “Being on the field rather than in the stands [was] really an amazing experience.”

For Berkley, capturing emotions is crucial when taking photos. While he always aims to capture excitement and feelings, his favorite emotion to capture is joy.

“Whether it's after scoring or a play that's really exciting, capturing joy is unbelievable,” Berkley said. “Capturing it makes you feel a way that no other emotion really does.”

With “HoopsDailyNews,” Berkley is able to update his friends and followers on what is happening in both college and professional basketball.

“Overall, I am so happy with my decision to invest in photography and graphic design,” Berkley said. ”It [has] become one of my greatest passions throughout my first three years of high school.”

Back Nine

Berkley positioned himself behind a tree and used it as framing and layering for junior Andrew Russell's golf shot photo.

2025 Sony a7iv camera

Track Legend

Photo of a vintage Porsche taken at a car meet in Highland Park. Berkley positioned himself behind part of a tree to add layering.

2024 Sony a7iv camera

Momentum

Berkley captured an action shot of junior lacrosse captain Josh Logan, as he warms up for his game against McCallie high school.

2025 Sony a7iv camera'

Last Stroke

The low vantage point action shot of junior Brooks Prestidge hitting a golf club. Berkley set it to a quick shutter speed and this is at the end of his swing.

2025 Sony a7iv camera

May 9, 2025

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

Staff Stance

The Episcopal School of Dallas

The staff stance reflects the opinion of the Eagle Edition staff, and it does not reflect the opinion of the school, newspaper advisor, faculty or staff.

Students would benefit from quiet libraries

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nxious students tend to go to the Gill Library in search of a quiet space where they can concentrate, study for their tests, and complete their assignments in silence. But to their surprise, the library is constantly filled with the noise of other students playing cards, building puzzles or working on group craft projects, making it impossible to focus on school work. Students then look for a quiet place inside the library and flood into the silent study room, hoping that the noise won’t follow them inside as they close the doors. However, the glass doors and thin walls allow noise to crowd the “silent” study room, leaving students distracted and stressed, desperate for a quiet place to study.

The Eagle Edition believes that the library is an inviting place. Students gather and hang out with friends rather than study because of its open layout; six square wooden tables seat four to six people in the center of the room, filling the majority of the space. Wrapping around the room are bookshelves lining the walls and there is an elevated space by the entrance with an inviting couch and a set of chairs placed by a warm fireplace. We love the library, but this open layout provides only one secluded space in the library; a window seat placed behind the bookshelves. This secret and highly coveted area allows students to focus and concentrate instead of being dis-

tracted by the buzz happening around them. Research conducted at the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, an independent charity and the UK’s shared admissions service for higher education, found that learning environments are crucial to student success. Factors including light, noise, color and seating contribute to a student's ability to absorb information and stay focused.

They also found that some low-level background noise can encourage creativity and help students relax while they study. The Gill Library is a great learning environment, but, unfortunately, it has become a place where middle and upper school students congregate and socialize, especially in the mornings or after school. This behavior distracts students who want to use the library as a study place, preventing them from studying and learning effectively.

While we agree that students need a space to gather during their free time and the library may seem like the ideal place for this, it is only distracting those around them.

We have a big and beautiful campus and there are other places for them to socialize, including the study commons, dining commons, the Cook Building or any outdoor environment.

According to an upper school poll conducted on 115 students, 61 percent of people said they would prefer a silent library and find it more beneficial for studying. And

BY THE NUMBERS

A group of fifth-grade boys build a marble tower in the Green Library. On May 2 at 8 a.m., they introduced a fun game for all the kids to play. This year, the library has became more of a social gathering spot than a quiet place for studying.

Photograph by Lincoln Clarke

Hindsight signs off Jamie Henderson | Former managing editor Charlotte Traylor | Former copy editor

I

n our ever-competitive high school environment, success is often synonymous with independence.

We pride ourselves on self-sufficiency, often overlooking our network of support. However, asking for and recognizing support is truly the key to success. In our final year of high school, we began to fully appreciate the individuals who have shaped our high school journey. No milestone was crossed alone, and in hindsight, we both wish that we had leaned on others a bit more during difficult decisions or periods of transition.

At some point or another, we have each received the same cliché advice: Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers for help. This is undoubtedly

true, but it requires one addendum: don’t be afraid to ask your upperclassmen or peers for advice. We remember discussing the pros and cons of editorial positions Although these with the Class of 2023 se- are just a few niors who ultimately helped guide our decision. As soph- people who have omores, we remember orga- influenced us, there nizing a peer review system for our English “Inferno” es- are countless more says, weighing the opinions to whom we would of each class member. ESD upper school (and especially like to extend a the Class of 2025), thank you thank you. There’s for being the best partners on a saying, “It takes a this long journey.

Newspaper staff, we are so village,” so find your grateful for our time with you village. over the past two years. Your positivity and enthusiasm for growth are an inspiration to us, and we cannot wait to admire your paper next year! As

this is not a surprise.

A study conducted at King's College which is a Catholic institution of higher education animated and guided by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, found that students learn and retain information best when in a completely silent environment. Some students on campus have said that studying in a loud environment makes them unproductive, and in order for them to finish their work quickly, the room needs to be silent.

Others feel that they can never focus in the library because of all the excessive noise, and even though they have tried using noise-canceling head-

phones and sitting in the silent study room, they can still hear all the commotion outside.

The Eagle Edition believes that the library should be a designated silent space for students to work on their assignments without the distractions of other people gaming, talking or making crafts. To achieve this, students who want to socialize with their friends should redirect themselves to another spot on campus. This adjustment would allow the library to be reserved for silent studying and preserve a peaceful refuge for students who need to get work done.

you know, you have an incredible advisor who will always serve as a source of wisdom and encouragement. However, lean on each other as well; each of you has a unique and invaluable contribution to the paper. And please, from your former copy and managing editors, please meet your deadlines.

We would also like to give a huge thank you to our role model and mentor of the past four years, Mrs. Rosenthal. If you have yet to have the pleasure of meeting her, we implore you to make it a priority before you leave. She has not only seen us grow as writers but as young women, and she has been a constant pillar of support during our high school years. We want to thank her for all the work she has put into this program, through late weeknights, all day Sundays, workshops, classes and more; the newspaper could not be what it is without her. The phrases CMYK, 300 DPI and overset text will forever be ingrained in our heads; we will forever appreciate her sacrifice that shaped our high school experience. We love you, Mrs. Rosenthal, and will miss you and the calming presence of the journalism room so much next year, but we promise to come back to visit!

Next, we would like to acknowledge our senior staff members whom we have

worked with to make the newspaper our own. Ethan, thank you for always keeping the light and fun environment in the newspaper room; although you joined late, we cannot imagine the newspaper without you. We wish you the best of luck in the future at UNG! Brooke, we have loved working alongside you the past four years and are so grateful for your hard work.

You have truly transformed the Eagle Edition website, and we are in awe of your dedication. Congrats on all you have done, and we cannot wait to see what your future holds.

Lauren and Sophia, we truly admire all that you both have done this year; you shone in your roles as EICs, and we wouldn’t want to work with anyone else. Our high school experience would not be the same without the rants, jokes, late nights, weekends and lunches we have shared through this program. We are so proud of you both. Lauren, you are truly amazing, and we hope you have the best time at UNC. Sophia, you have worked so hard, and we know you will end up somewhere as amazing as you are (wherever that is).

Although these are just a few people who have influenced us, there are countless more to whom we would like to extend a thank you. There’s a saying, “It takes a village,” so find your village.

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

May 9, 2025

Bronze

breakdown As summer rolls around the corner, staff writer Barrett Coble set out to determine the ideal tanning solution. If you're looking for the perfect summer glow, this list is for you.

SUNBUM During my recent cruise trip to Mexico, I decided to test out the popular Sun Bum Tanning Oil, hoping for a golden glow to match the trip’s tropical vibe. First impressions were terrific; it smells divine and applies like butter.

However, I learned the hard way that this oil doesn't offer much protection from the sun, especially when traveling so close to the equator. Despite my best efforts to apply generously, the product did not protect me from excessive exposure and getting sun poisoning all over my legs, instead of a bronzed tan. If you plan to spend hours in the sun, pair this product with a strong SPF. It may give you a darker look, but it’s up to you to decide if it’s worth the sting and the dangerous effects of sunburning.



AUSTRALIAN GOLD Australian Gold Tanning Oil has been my go-to tanning oil for years, and it never disappoints.

I used it recently to tan by my pool, and as always, it gave me a deep, rich tan without any sunburns. But remember that it is always smart to pair your oil with a reliable SPF of at least 30. The scent is tropical and nostalgic, and the formula keeps my skin moisturized while helping me gain a golden glow all summer long. One downside is that it can leave behind a slight orange film on the skin, which likely enhances the tan but needs a good scrub in the shower to remove. Still, for a reliable, vacation-ready tan, this oil continues to earn a spot in my beach bag.



HAWAIIAN TROPIC B.TAN b.tan Tanning Oil is hands-down the best tanning oil I have used. I’ve always struggled to achieve that natural, deep, bronzed look, but this product completely changed the game. I use it by the pool all the time, and it gives me a beautiful, dark tan in no time. No streaks, no blotchy spots and absolutely no orange tint. Unlike most products, it smells great even hours after tanning. While the product did not leave me with any burns, I recommend pairing it with a strong SPF just to be safe. My skin feels super hydrated every time I use it, however, it does tend to darken your hands if you’re not careful. But honestly, I feel like it is totally worth it.

After years of tanning with various products, I will always refer back to this oil. It’s not just a tanning oil, it’s my glow-to every summer.

Hawaiian Tropic is the perfect solution for enhancing your tan, but only if you already have one. While I am not someone who tends to have a super dark color to my skin, I spend a lot of time outdoors, so I tend to keep a light to medium tan most of the time. I like this product because it moisturizes my skin and deepens the color I already have.

The coconut scent is also a nice bonus: the product smells like summer in a bottle. The formula is definitely on the oilier side; however, out in the sun, I didn't mind it as much.

Just keep in mind that the product offers little to no sun protection. So, for all my vampire girlies out there, make sure you use sunscreen with this product, or you’ll achieve a more beet-red than a bronze-brown.

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Photos and layout by Barrett Coble

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

agreeTO

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Students debate the value and importance of taking a gap year

Illustration by Annabel Brown, Gracie Nealon and Sheridan Bailey

Gap years increase motivation and enhance student performance in and out of the classroom

Gap years are not financially considerate and lead students to fall behind academically

Sheridan Bailey | Communications manager

G

ap years are gaining popularity with tens of thousands of high school and collegiate graduates opting to travel, partake in new cultural experiences, rejuvenate, and ultimately return to college or university as better, more mature versions of themselves. Currently, the 40,000 to 60,000 students who choose to take a gap year annually only make up 2 to 3 percent of high school graduates, but that percentage is growing, and for good reason.

According to a survey from the Gap Year Association, a non-profit organization that works with students by developing experiences which allow participants to partake in a quality gap year, 80 percent of participants learned how to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds. Eighty-one percent reported that their gap year increased their maturity, and 76 percent said it increased their self-confidence.

Misconceptions regarding gap years often cloud this truth and distract from the benefits. Students who opt to take a gap year are frequently considered lazy or unmotivated, with many assuming they won’t return to school. However, these assumptions are inherently false.

For example, Harvard Business Review referenced the Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science released in 2018 by the American Psychological Association that found that over one-third of incoming freshmen endure mental health struggles, which in turn directly correlated with lower GPAs and high dropout rates. A separate study, which was conducted to analyze educational psychology and released by the APA, found that students who returned to higher education following a gap year were more motivated and outperformed their peers who did not take a gap year. Ultimately, not only did the gap year enhance students' performances in and out of the classroom, but they also outperformed struggling students who chose not to take a gap year.

According to the Harvard Business Review, the Dean of Admissions

Anoushka Sinha | Copy editor

at Middlebury College, Robert Glagett, sought to better understand how gap years impacted the student body at the college. Based on his data on transcripts and applications, Glagett found that students who took a gap year maintained higher GPAs than previously suspected and held a majority of leadership positions on campus.

Regarding the misconception that gap year students do not attend college upon their return, 90 percent of students who took a gap year returned to school, according to the Gap Year Organization. And The Harvard Business Review wrote that “Studies [showed] no difference in matriculation or graduation rates between gap year takers and their peers.” Dj DiDonna, the author of the article, instead indicates an increase in academic performance among gap year alumni.

Many prestigious universities nationwide are aware of these statistics and have implemented gap year programs at their institutions. Columbia University, for example, offers up to two years of deferred enrollment.

However, regardless of whether a gap year is supported by a university or is an individual decision, it can be costly and too expensive for some families. To combat this, universities such as Princeton have allowed select admitted students to have a fully funded gap year experience.

Ultimately, students preparing for their higher education degrees should assess themselves on their current mental health and financial situation. Students should research the offered gap year programs at their selected universities and make the appropriate decision for themselves and their circumstances. Each student must consider the overwhelming number of benefits of taking a gap year.

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percent of students believe gap years will not cause students to fall behind in school

A

s the trend of taking a gap year grows more popular among high school students, it is worth considering whether this option is truly as beneficial as it seems. A gap year is typically described as a time to rest, reflect or pursue passions before beginning college. While this sounds appealing, especially to students who feel overwhelmed by the pressures of school, the reality is that taking a year off before college often introduces more challenges than expected from academic, financial and even social perspectives.

One of the main concerns with gap years is the disruption of academic momentum they create. After spending 13 straight years in the school system, if not more, students are in a rhythm. A year away from structure, deadlines and learning can make it difficult to jump back in. According to the Gap Year Association, while some students say they return with more focus, others report struggling to readjust to academic life and expectations.

Another issue is the lack of structure that defines many gap years.

Students can find themselves aimless without a clearly outlined plan or strong support system. As journalist and writer Elissa Strauss wrote in The Atlantic, a gap year “can morph from a transformational experience into a wasted opportunity” if not managed carefully. A year of freedom might sound like a dream, but it often leads to unproductive downtime rather than meaningful personal growth.

Then there’s also the cost. Structured programs such as those involving international travel or specialized internships can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, according to GoAbroad. For families already struggling to afford college, spending thousands of dollars on a gap year is unrealistic. While some students may work during their time off to save money,

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there’s no guarantee that those savings will significantly ease future financial burdens.

Socially, taking a year off can also instill feelings of isolation or disconnect among peers. When their peers head off to college, build social circles and settle into campus life, students who took gap years are left behind, often spending a year working or at home while their friends move forward. This disconnect can persist once they do enter college. According to a study published in the Journal of Higher Education, students who delay college enrollment by one year are 10 percentage points less likely to complete a bachelor’s degree compared to those who enroll immediately after high school.

For students who take a gap year to avoid burnout, the choice may feel like a necessary reset, but avoidance rarely leads to resilience. In her book, “The Stressed Years of Their Lives,” psychologist Janet Hibbs argues that shielding students from stress may ultimately leave them less prepared for the pressures of college life. Learning to balance academics, stress and personal growth is a core part of the college experience—something that should not be delayed.

The assumption that students need to leave school to find themselves is also a misconstrued idea.

Colleges offer countless opportunities for exploration: study abroad programs, volunteer initiatives, undergraduate research and student-led organizations or clubs. These experiences offer structure and support, making them more likely to result in lasting personal growth.

None of this is to say that gap years are inherently harmful. For students with clear goals, access to funding and a well-organized plan, it can be extremely fulfilling. But for the average student, the risks are real. Before committing to a year off, students should weigh those risks carefully. A gap year should not be seen as a rite of passage; it is a serious decision with consequences if not examined to the fullest extent. What may look like a break from the grind could actually be a detour from the path to success and create a habit of delaying the inevitable.

percent of students believe gap years will cause students to fall behind in school SOURCE: May 4 poll of 163 upper school students

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

May 9, 2025

Beyond the brace: emotional significance of sports injuries

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n Jan. 23, performing our last routine at home before competing at the National Cheerleading Association High School Nationals competition, 48 hours before taking the mat, I collapsed to the ground after tearing my ACL, MCL and meniscus while performing. As I fell to the ground, the music jolted to a stop mid-routine.

The crowd of families and friends supporting our showcase sat in silence, unsure of what had happened. Though I had never felt that level of excruciating pain before, all I could think of was the fact that I wouldn’t be able to compete and how that was going to affect my team.

Oftentimes, when athletes suffer serious injuries, all people think about is the physical pain they are going through; what they don’t realize is that sometimes, the mental struggle is far worse than the physical pain.

Throughout my athletic career, I have experienced numerous injuries, including broken bones that left me sidelined for weeks. Though my previous injuries have taken moderate amounts of time to heal, I had never sustained an injury that needed surgery.

Suffering from my knee injury was an experience full of firsts.

The “first” that surprised me the most was the effect my injuries had on my mental

The

nothing more than partichealth. I had always heard of ipating in sports, musicals ACL recovery being physically and miscellaneous student demanding and hard on the groups, my different extrabody, but so far, the cognicurriculars have become a tive challenges have been the foundation for who I am. So, most difficult. when all those activities were After working hard all suddenly stripped away, I lost season to perfect my team’s my ability to participate—and cheer routine, being unable to a part of my identity that I compete on stage at nationcherish. als and watching the routine Watching the people I love from the crowd was one of do the things I love, knowing the hardest parts of being inI won’t be able to participate jured. Along with participatagain until August, is a chaling in cheer, I was a part of the lenge far greater than trying musical cast and the lacrosse to bend my knee 90 degrees. team. Not only did this injury I quickly realized that staying affect my cheer season, but it positive would be the hardest also affected my musical and part of my six-month recovery lacrosse seasons. I had spent process. many hours rehearsing for Physical recovery has milethe musical before I injured stones and goals like locking myself. Just like cheer, after your knee out, running and dedicating lots of time to rejumping, but the mental jourhearsals, I had to watch the ney is far from a clear path. winter musical backstage.

There are days when you exWatching the musical from ceed your goals, when you the theater’s wings was far more painful than any part Kate Lewis | Social media co-manager make no progress and even when you feel you’re moving of the physical process. Now, backward. Those are the days cheering on the lacrosse team that feel like a fragile house of is just as difficult. I didn’t cards. know it then, but this injury I try to stay positive while would change the trajectory the fear of never being able of the next six months of my to return to who I once was life. creeps into the back of my I am a person who enjoys mind daily. Whether in class, being involved in multiple at home or driving, the activities, so being taken out thought of this injury being of these activities that have the turning point in my athletfilled up my time for as long ic career haunts me. There is as I can remember has taken no telling what will come out a drastic toll. While my knee of this injury, so while I recovis in a brace, my mind is in a er for the next four months, different kind of cage.

I constantly have intrusive As someone who loves

The mental struggle of injuries, which is often overlooked, can be more challenging than the physical aspect

thoughts of failure living in my mind.

Being able to return to sports is one thing, but as someone with high expectations and who holds myself to a high standard, I yearn to return to where I was, if not better.

So, while I fight mental battles every day, I also have to remind myself to take a moment to recognize the progress I am making. I tell myself that no matter my attitude, my injury will take the same amount of time to heal, so I might as well be positive.

It's not an easy journey, but the mental side of my recovery has taught me more than I thought it ever would. It has taught me patience, resilience and the power of believing in myself, even when the future is uncertain.

Soon enough, I will be back on the field, stage and mat better than before, and that’s what’s important for me. If there is a benefit to injury, it is the mental resilience it teaches you. One day, I will stop playing sports and performing, but when I do, it is times like these I will look back on to remind myself that I am capable of overcoming hardships.

The lessons I have learned during this process will not only make me a better athlete, performer and cheerleader when I return, but also a better person in life: someone who can face challenges with courage.

Social media transforms health industry Online trends influence how people approach health, mixed results

Talk Valentina Boltchi | Managing editor Reese Rawson | Co-editor-in-chief

S

ocial media has completely transformed the health industry. Every scroll promotes a new, magical product or workout routine that is supposed to make consumers feel better both inside and out. We are constantly told that a simple switch or product can “change our lives,” when in reality, the surplus of content can quickly become overwhelming.

A recent example of this phenomenon is on TikTok where gut health has become a major health sensation as creators and influencers share how fixing their gut has changed their lives. Creators cite how because they have improved their gut health, they experience no bloating, lower stress levels and balanced emotions. New products claiming to heal one’s gut have taken the internet by storm.

Coconut Cult, a probiotic yogurt, exploded on TikTok after it went viral for its supposed effects on bloating, energy and overall health.

It includes gut-friendly microorganisms that are kept alive through fermentation.

The yogurt has sold out nationwide, with people visiting

multiple grocery stores and paying up to $39 for a single jar. Many TikTok users have even reported difficulties finding this product due to its popularity. Having tried Coconut Cult, we believe its effects differ from person to person.

As we felt both negative and positive side effects—some days it significantly reduced bloating, while other days it worsened it—we recommend experimenting with a small amount (such as a tablespoon a day) to see how your body reacts. If you don’t notice any difference, it may not be worth continuing.

Another viral sensation is sea moss, which is said to improve gut and skin health.

Many creators have gone viral for showing their morning supplement routines, which often include a spoonful of sea moss. The health industry has responded by producing alternative forms, such as sea moss vitamins and gummies. While we have not tried it ourselves, junior Harper Sands takes a spoonful each morning and claims it has improved her skin and given her the nutrients to help her feel healthier.

Ashwagandha, a traditional herbal remedy from India, northern Africa and the Middle East, has also skyrocketed in popularity online for its supposed ability to manage

Because most of these products are promoted on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, influencers may be paid or receive commission to promote them even if the product is not of good quality.

stress and anxiety and improve sleep. It has become so popular that it’s now sold directly through TikTok’s shopping feature. Many videos promoting Ashwagandha include affiliate links that allow creators to earn commissions. Still, many users attest to the benefits.

Junior Estee Bines said that Ashwagandha has helped her manage her stress and handle situations more calmly. Bines said that before she started taking it, she noticed she would easily crash in stressful environments.

But now, after taking it for a year, she feels more easygoing at school and has a more positive mindset.

Not only are health supplements rising in popularity on social media platforms, but workout trends and techniques are as well, drawing in followers eager to participate. Many creators claim their method is the most effective and that doing their workouts will help you achieve your “dream summer body” in the “shortest amount of time.” For example, influencer Hailey Fernandes has gained hundreds of thousands of followers on TikTok this year because of her inspiring weight-loss journey and six-pack abs, which she attributes to using the StairMaster and doing a 10-minute ab workout daily.

Similarly, Pilates, a form of exercise focused on strengthening and toning the body through controlled movements, has increased in popularity among both men and women, as it helps achieve a lean look while improving core strength, flexibility and

body awareness. Being a universal form of movement, Pilates can be done at home or in a class setting. On YouTube, Nikola’s Pilates channel offers short, effective workouts (mostly under seven minutes), requiring no equipment and delivering a strong burn. We believe that if you do not want to spend $30 or more on workout classes, watching free videos like these is a smart alternative.

However, this health craze raises a question: Which products on social media are truly effective, and which are falsely advertised? Because most of these products are promoted on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, influencers may be paid or receive commission to promote them—even if the product is not of good quality. This creates dangerous situations that can slow progress or negatively impact someone’s health. If you want to test out a product you saw online, make sure to thoroughly research it before clicking “order.” Moreover, if something seems questionable, talk to a professional—or skip it entirely.

Thanks to social media, millions of people are becoming more educated about their health and how to care for their bodies, but it is crucial not to believe everything you see online. Next time you scroll past a video where someone raves about a product and claims it “changed their life,” remember it may be misleading or financially motivated. Do your own research, consult professionals and avoid falling into the trap of conspicuous consumption.

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Letter

V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Views

from I

knew that applying to 24 colleges and universities would be a mistake. But I fell victim to second-guessing and I felt that I needed to exhaust all my options—or so I thought. It took me until May 1 at 6 p.m. to decide that I was going to Vanderbilt University. Similar to the earlier stages of my college admission journey, I was again faced with second-guessing. The pros-cons lists, the analysis, the stress and finally the pressure to decide all pushed me to procrastinate my decision further. But what truly stunted me was the one plaguing question: What if?

What if I didn’t fit in at Vanderbilt? What if it is too difficult and I flunk out? What if I hate it? What if? I had never been so indecisive. As of now, this single decision would set up the rest of my life, and I didn’t think I was ready to handle the weight of that. Yet, what finally pushed me to decide was the moment I chose to just “pull the trigger” and take the risk.

If I don’t take those chances, I won’t know the answers to my what-ifs.

There’s a warmth in comfort that humanity seeks. We like to predict all outcomes and consequences. Lauren and I are no different. Predictability stabilizes our hectic lives, and there is nothing wrong

the Editors

with enjoying the expected.

While I understand there is comfort in knowing and familiarity, you cannot fulfill your goals without an aspect of risk-taking. I know “what if” can stain our thoughts, causing us to doubt and maybe limit our opportunities, but our advice is to ignore the persistent what-if hypotheticals and, as Nike likes to say, just do it.

Besides my most recent risk of deciding where to go to college, I decided to join the ESD crew team for my last spring sport. The idea of joining the rowing team had always lingered when basketball season ended, yet I was apprehensive about joining because of all the rumors and horror stories I had heard.

“Just wait until you flip into Bachman Lake” or “I have seen people vomit after their workouts” would pop into my head every time I drafted an email to coach Jones. What if I couldn’t handle the workouts?

What if I were to flip? What if? However, during my senior year, I set those thoughts aside and thought to myself, at least I can say that I tried rowing. To my surprise, erging was not too bad–but being on the water is a different story.

On my first day on the water, I almost flipped six or seven times, but I can confidently

Co-editors-in-chief Sophia Sardiña and Lauren Shushi recall their experiences together in high school, and share the importance of not wishing your time away.

The consequences of risk-taking always include growth, regardless of whether the risk produced a positive or negative outcome.

Letter the Editors

to

Tim Woodward | Upper school history teacher

I

started off this school year as a loser.

While all of the students, faculty and staff of ESD attended the first three days of school in August, I was on a flight to Los Angeles to film Pop Culture Jeopardy! where my team (spoiler alert) lost in the first round. For the next five months, I wasn’t allowed to tell anyone how my team did and so that was my big secret: I was a loser.

I hyped the show up, of course. I had told everyone where I was going and what I was doing, and now I anxiously awaited the airdate of the episode, unsure of how my colleagues and students would respond. I’m a pretty big trash talker– I recapped each win of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in class throughout the fall, talking a big game to the haters and deniers of the greatness of those teams. Just like my PCJ! team, both football teams suffered spectacularly grand and public losses in the championships, too…

The Episcopal School of Dallas

this was just not my year.

And so when the episode of PCJ! aired in December, I was ready for a barrage of zingers and barbs about my own television performance.

They never came.

Instead of snarky comments, every single person who watched my episode responded so positively. I felt supported– people took time to watch the episode and were inquisitive and kind. Students told me that they watched the episode with their entire family and had a great time answering the questions. Friends and colleagues reached out over Christmas Break to discuss the episode. Instead of being made to feel embarrassed, I felt proud for showing up and trying something big and new, for saying yes to a fun, yet intimidating, experience. As much as I’d been bracing for jokes at my expense, what I received instead was a masterclass in grace.

I also realized how lucky I was to have people in my life that encourage my own curiosity each day. I was grateful for the group of senior boys who quizzed me and tried to stump me

Passion isn't embarrassingit's what makes us interesting, connected, alive.

say that I haven’t flipped since.

Although the workouts are difficult, even at a novice level, and rowing on the water is way more difficult than it may seem, I truly have enjoyed being part of such an amazing team.

And while I get the occasional strange look when I mention I joined the crew team my senior year, I would not have changed anything about my decision. The team exudes an energy like no other team I have been on. Every hard piece is met with cheering each other on, hype music and a shared sense of grit and accomplishment.

I cannot help but wonder what could have been if I had ignored the hypotheticals and joined the team earlier in my high school career. By choosing to finally go after what I wanted to do, I gained a sense of fulfillment. If I had listened to my doubts, I would’ve regretted not trying something new.

While mine is more recent, one of Lauren’s risks was during her freshman year of high school when she joined our school's investment club.

When she joined, the club was male-dominated, with only a few other girls attending the meetings.

Originally, Lauren was deterred from joining because

of the environment, but she joined alongside Nina Rastin and ended up loving the experience and opportunity the club gave her. She learned about her new passion for investing and grew her interest through the club. By her senior year, she became president. By stepping out of her comfort zone and trying something new, Lauren was able to foster an interest in the economy, which she likely wouldn’t have discovered until later in her life.

While our experiences may differ, they both emphasize the importance of taking risks.

The consequences of risk-taking always include growth, regardless of whether the risk produced a positive or negative outcome.

If you tried something new and weren’t met with your desired outcome, you now have the learned experience of avoiding that in the future.

Or perhaps you took a risk and ended up better than before.

But at least you can say you tried.

In the end, the beauty of risk-taking or stepping out of your comfort zone is that no matter the outcome, you learn something, grow and change from it. As T.S. Eliot said, “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one could go.”

as we watched a beautiful sunset together at the Senior Retreat. I was thankful for the girls in my advisory who took time to teach me the names of the biggest TikTok stars, what “GRWM” means, and which songs

by Chappell Roan were the most popular– all of which were questions on the episode! I was thankful that my colleagues and officemates would keep me on my toes, quizzing me with the songs they heard on radio that morning or who the stars of 1980s comedies that they watched over the weekend were. My appearance and performance on the show and love for pop culture wasn’t belittled– it was encouraged.

Ever since I was little, I have always loved learning about the trivia and minutia of everything– pop culture, history, literature. My older brother and I shared a room growing up, and even when we were in elementary school, we would quiz each other about the most obscure Nickelodeon facts as we went to sleep: “What kind of animal is Rocko in Rocko’s Modern Life?” (A wallaby); “Who sings the original theme song for All That?” (TLC); “What was the name of the group of friends in Are You Afraid of the Dark?” (The Midnight Society). We would whisper and laugh and chat and try to stump each other over and over, creating a sacred ritual over inane facts. I now see how important and beautiful trivia really is.

Trivia rewards curiosity.

To succeed at it, you have to pay attention to the world– not just to what’s “import-

ant”, but to what people care about, laugh at, argue over and make art about. And as a teacher, it shows students that knowledge doesn’t always have to be formal or academic– it can be fun, surprising and joyfully weird. It encourages one to stay curious, of wondering and then seeking, skills that are essential in today’s world.

So dive down headfirst into those Wikipedia rabbit holes and continue to search and learn more about the topics– important and trivial– that interest you. There’s something really powerful about caring deeply about something, even if it seems silly or trivial to other people. Passion isn’t embarrassing—it’s what makes us interesting, connected, alive. I want my students to be the kind of people who dive headfirst into the stuff they love— whether it’s history, musical theater, coding, The Office or 1980s yacht rock music. I want them to know that it’s okay to be obsessed, to get invested, to show up fully.

Because being passionate is brave. It means you’re willing to risk failure in pursuit of something you love.

I am so lucky that I belong to a community that reminds me that my value isn’t based on whether I won or lost– but on the person I am, the relationships I’ve built and the enthusiasm I bring to everything I do, win or lose.

So yes, I started this school year as a loser. But it turns out, I learned how to be a better teacher, mentor,and person because of it.

And let’s be honest– there’s always next season.

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

May 9, 2025

Sports

25

Eagles reach for the sky at SPC Lacrosse, tennis, track & field, golf compete for top seed against teams from across Texas

EAGLES SOAR TO CHAMPIONSHIP Junior lacrosse player Ryan Tran receives a pass from his teammate and heads to the goal during the SPC semi-finals against Kinkaid, leading the Eagles to a 12-2 point victory, on April 11 at the St. Mark's School of Texas. “Something I took away from the game was the importance of energy, effort and playing as a team,” Tran said. “Because we are almost unstoppable when we play with those attributes.” Photo by Sloane Everett

Sloane Everett | Content manager

J

unior varsity boys lacrosse captain Josh Logan turns and shoots against the St. Mark’s goalie, securing their five-point lead in the second quarter during the Southwest Preparatory Conference Championship. The stadium was filled with the screams of excitement from the student body and the crowd.

The varsity boys lacrosse team competed in the SPC Championship game on Saturday, April 12, against St. Mark's School of Texas at the Jones Family Stadium. Throughout the entirety of the game, ESD remained in the lead. By the time the game was over, ESD won 14-7 and claimed the title of SPC Champions for the 10th consecutive year.

“Our defense played much better during the championship,” Logan said. “We were way more aggressive, and we dictated the game a little more.

We also definitely pushed the ball in transition, and just played into the team. I think that was one of the reasons we were able to do so well.”

As the season progressed, the varsity boys lacrosse team utilized their time in practice to improve as individual players and as a team. This allowed the coaches to have players ready on the field for any given circumstance.

“It's kind of it's a unique situation [for us],” head varsity boys lacrosse coach Jay Sothoron said. “We've had such success in the SPC, it's almost like [we] don't [allow] our guys to let [the team] down, and just try to have good practices leading up [to games]. We have a few injuries here and there, [and] we're trying to get some guys back in time for the tournament. The one thing about practicing at 100 percent every day is when you get to the SPC weekend, you can have whoever's hot give you a good game.”

As spring sports prepared for the SPC tournament, coaches focused on building team chemistry and working on improving specific skills to secure a victory as champions. While the varsity boys tennis team focused on training to hopefully win the SPC Division I bracket, varsity tennis coach Tim Barnard

made sure to create a fun and supportive atmosphere for his players. This entertaining setting allows players to enjoy practice and compels them to play their best.

“I think the main thing is that coach John and I have to try to keep it fun for everybody,” Barnard said. “So when you're having fun and they don't realize that they're working hard, it goes hand in hand.

Tennis is an individualized sport where everybody works mainly on their own skills.

Then, when we get into practice formation, that's when we work more on the tactical side of the degree.”

On May 3, after three days of playing in the SPC tournament, the varsity boys tennis team ended up placing sixth overall. The players have decided to learn from their mistakes and improve in specific areas for next year.

“From the tournament, I have learned not to focus on the past during a match, but instead to focus on the present,” freshman and varsity boys tennis player Franklin Custard said. “I try not to let my past mistakes and losses haunt and affect me during my matches. Next year, I'm aiming to improve my mental game as well as my physical stamina, due to losing a three-hour match because I could no longer move efficiently.”

The varsity girls lacrosse team has also been prioritizing their time during practice.

Each practice works on different skills to slowly prepare the girls to go head-to-head against their competition. Varsity girls lacrosse coach Faith Renner emphasizes the importance of building connections within the team.

“We expect players to treat one another with love and respect and work their hardest each day on the field,” Renner said. “Our practices aren't long, and we know that if we come ready to work and focus, we'll get the training done that we need to prepare for competition. [This week,] we are focusing on fitness and conditioning. The team is learning a new defense and focusing on fast ball movement on the attacking side.”

After a hard week of prepa-

From [SPC], I have learned not to focus on the past during a match but instead on focus on the present.

Franklin Custard Freshman, boys varsity tennis player

ration and conditioning, the varsity girls lacrosse team fought its way to compete in the SPC Championship.

On Friday, April 11, the girls beat Episcopal High School to move to the semi-finals, where they beat St. John’s School. On Saturday, April 12, the girls played their hardest against the Hockaday School in the championship. The game resulted in a 15-6 loss.

“I will always stand on the idea that team bonding is crucial for winning games,” junior and varsity girls lacrosse player Harper Sands said. “When we played the best, our team chemistry and bonding [were] the best, and when we played the worst, our team chemistry was at its lowest.”

Seeing the value in building up the team’s skills through competition and experience has been a valuable aspect in training the varsity golf team. Throughout the spring, players have been participating in numerous tournaments, ensuring they will be fully prepared for SPC. Varsity golf coach David Tollison made it his priority to build up his players to have the right amount of confidence and skill to secure a victory.

“Practicing and working on specific areas of each player's game is necessary while preparing for SPC,” Tollison said. “However, there is no substitute for competition. I try to enter the team in as many tournaments as possible leading up to SPC, and also have the boys compete against each other during practices. I expect the players to play the game the right way - with integrity. I also want them to trust the process, try their best and enjoy the journey.”

The golf tournament was held on April 28 and 29. After two days of competing on the course, the Eagles placed third overall in the 3A division, accumulating a total of 322 points. Senior Wyatt Ayres and junior Clay McElree on the varsity boys golf team both earned second place, while additionally receiving the “All-SPC” award.

However, the golf team as a

whole was not satisfied with their outcome.

“I tried to talk to my teammates, saying how hard a course it was and that it was nobody's fault we lost so that no one felt blamed,” McElree said. “While I was very sad and disappointed that we lost, my teammates reminded me how well I had done individually and that I placed second, so I needed to be happy for that. Golf is a week-to-week game, and you can not win all tournaments, but you can always do your best to put yourself in the best position to win.”

The main goal for the varsity track and field team was to get more athletes to qualify for the SPC tournament.

Before the last track meet, 15 players had qualified for their specific events. Varsity track and field coach Evan Hadrick aimed to break his record and have at least 25 total athletes qualify this season.

“I want everybody to understand what they're capable of,” Hadrick said. “Coming from my point of view of somebody that works with athletes every year, and is obsessive about the sport, I usually can see what athletes are capable of before they can, especially if they haven't been running for very long.”

May 1 through May 3, 22 of the varsity track and field athletes traveled down to Houston, Texas, for the SPC tournament, where they competed against various schools from across the state. Senior and varsity track and field player Brooklyn Singer earned first place when she ran in the 100-meter, 200-meter and girls 4x1 relay. Each athlete worked hard in each of their events to create an SPC that their seniors will remember.

“I am happy with how it turned out,” senior and varsity track and field athlete Sebastian Guzik said, “We had a lot of personal records as a team. I think that everyone put their best effort into the meet. It is crazy to think that I am done with high school sports forever. It is a sad feeling since I know I will never get to do it again.”

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

The Episcopal School of Dallas

One-hundred wins and counting Head lacrosse coach Jay Sothoron reaches coaching milestone with Jesuit victory

Emma Allen | Business manager

O

n April 4, the varsity boys lacrosse team secured a victory against Jesuit, but for head coach Jay Sothoron, the final score wasn’t the only number that mattered. That victory marked Sothoron’s 100th career win.

As a coach at ESD for the past six seasons, Sothoron has led the team to a Southern Preparatory Conference championship each year, excluding the Covid-impacted season, earning him recognition as the Texas High School Lacrosse League North Class A Coach of the Year in 2024.

“I think why we’ve been consistent is because the standard never changes,” Sothoron said. “I think there are some coaches that change their standard year to year depending on who their kids are, and that’s just something I don’t do.”

The win, while hard-fought, also showcased Sothoron’s coaching philosophy, which he claims is generally about dedication to the program.

“My philosophy isn’t really tricky,” Sothoron said. “It's to be bought into your program, care a ton about it, be invested, be dedicated and work really hard. And I think if you have a team that does that year after year, you might have some down years with talent, but I think that mentality and toughness can steal you wins even if you’re a little less talented than some of the people

you’re playing.”

Director of Athletics Thad Lepcio credits Sothoron and his staff with creating a culture where excellence is a non-negotiable.

“Coach Sothoron and his coaches have created a culture of demanding excellence and accountability,” Lepcio said. “He has also assembled a coaching staff who are role models on and off the field.”

This mindset has been at the core of the team’s success under Sothoron, who makes it a point to be highly detail-oriented and demanding, even after big wins.

“Even after the Jesuit win, I wasn’t happy with the overall performance,” Sothoron said.

“So I think when you have a super high standard, you have to look at everything with a magnifying glass and be critical.

That's one of the areas that's helped us secure wins and be the team we’ve been over the last few years.”

Sothoron’s high expectations don’t stop at the athletic field, as he holds his players to rigorous standards in all aspects of their lives.

“He demands excellence in all parts of his players' lives,” Lepcio said. “He holds players to a high standard athletically, academically, and expects his players to be leaders on campus.”

High standards apply not just to the players but also to Sothoron himself, along with his coaching staff. For Sothoron, leadership doesn’t mean doing everything; it means surrounding himself with people who are aligned

A WIN TO REMEMBER Lacrosse players exchange high-fives with Jesuit opponents following the 10-7 game.

Photo by Huy Pham

I don't ever like saying one program is the benchmark for [others], but certainly the level of commitment [Sothoron] demands and the level of accountability he demands is fantastic.

Thad Lepcio Director of Athletics

with a vision and willing to work just as hard to attain it.

“I would say the next big thing that’s really helped [us have] success is I have great assistant coaches,” Sothoron said. “I’m very fortunate to have probably some of the best high school assistant coaches in the country. Most of them have all played at a high level in college and coached at high levels and [are] just very good at what they do. So I think kind of like being a boss of a company sometimes, like if you have great employees, your company’s probably gonna be pretty good.”

While the spotlight naturally lands on Sothoron after reaching the 100-win milestone, he’s quick to share credit with everyone else around the program.

“It’s just a big number, but I think you can’t do that without a lot of kids that put a lot of hard work in,” Sothoron said. “A lot of kids [who] have worked really hard and played at a high level to help you get that right. I don’t really like the attention on me so much because I feel like in team sports in general, it’s not one person that does it. I think we’re all kind of like a piece to a pie.”

Over the years, that “pie” has consistently produced results: championships, accolades and a sustained culture of excellence. But Sothoron’s drive doesn’t come from trophies or headlines. It comes from a relentless commitment to getting better, regardless of past success.

“Even though we won the

championship last year, there’s a lot we need to get better at,” Sothoron said. “Even our players might assume that I nitpick small things or maybe I’m not happy enough, but I also attribute that to why we’ve had high levels of success.”

Sothoron attributes much of his coaching approach to lessons passed down from his father, a Hall of Fame high school and college coach.

Watching how his dad built teams, managed players and pushed for excellence left a lasting impression.

“I learned a lot from him on how to prepare kids, how to push kids and try to create a level of toughness and commitment,” Sothoron said. “And I think that’s something that, if you had to ask me what is like the standard we have here, I would say we ask for probably one of the highest levels of commitment out of our kids.”

The authenticity, paired with a tireless work ethic, is the foundation of his success.

Sothoron consistently shows up with the same approach: detailed, demanding and devoted to the process. He proudly shares this success with all the contributors to the team.

“When we get to the end of the season and we win these big games, I think that’s mostly due to everybody kind of contributing to that success,” Sothoron said. “So I don’t think it’s just me in any sense that’s gotten this number. I think there [are] a lot of people [who] have helped me get to that number.”

Latest wins against biggest rivals

13-4 March 13 game against St. Mark's

10-7 April 4 game against Jesuit

12-11 April 18 game against Woodlands Source: ESD Athletic Department

Eagleeye

May 9, 2025

r e i t t i h W a l Nah

How long have you been running track, and what motivates you to keep up with the sport?

I have been running track since seventh grade, and honestly, it's just really fun.

Having good coaches motivates you to be better, so under their guidance, I try to work my hardest to perfect my starts and my form in general.

What is a favorite memory you have from track?

My favorite memory is probably in seventh grade when Elijah [Tayengo] hopped on this kid in the 800. Everybody was cheering for him, and he won the whole race, so that was really fun and memorable. There has always been such a strong sense of family and belonging when I step onto the track. I have so many memories from just being around the people I love.

What goals or aspirations do you have for yourself for the rest of track season?

My goal for the rest of the year is just to be faster. I want to get my time down to 11.9 seconds by next year for the 100-meter [dash] and I want to get my 200-meter [dash] time down to 24 seconds.

What is your favorite thing about track?

Probably the high jump. Also, recently, the 400-meter I ran at Texas Relays was fun. I thought it was gonna be terrible, but I actually enjoyed it.

V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

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Every issue, the Eagle Edition highlights two athletes who stand out on the field for their Interviews and photos by respective sports.

Kate Lewis | Social Media Manager and Barret Coble | Web Co-ditor

r i u a p f f o l H e Dani

Q & A

What is it like being a new freshman on the team?

It was a little overwhelming at first, but now that the season has been going on and I have built relationships with everyone, I feel very at home with everyone on the team.

What is the best part about the team?

The best part of the team is how close we all are. We don't have a lot of players, which can sometimes hurt us on the field. However, when it comes to bonding and relationships, it is very easy for everyone to be included and have great relationships with each other.

How have you grown as an individual this season?

I think I have grown as a leader. I feel like I have stepped up and learned not only how to lead by words but also lead by example. As a team, we have grown by learning to keep fighting the whole game, no matter the score or situation. We always fight to the last out.

What has been the hardest thing about this season and how are you responding to it?

The hardest thing about this season so far is the fact [that] we have very few people on the team. We only have a couple of substitutions, and it makes it tougher on the team because everyone has to step up and be able to play multiple positions. The team is responding by trying our best to dig deep and give it our best, no matter the circumstances or what position we are playing.

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

The Episcopal School of Dallas

ESD builds a lacrosse legacy with Ryan Brown Professional Lacrosse League champion assists the boys lacrosse team on a championship run in 2024 Jack Coben | Podcast co-editor

I

t is five minutes before the final buzzer. The boys varsity lacrosse team is tied at seven goals against Jesuit Preparatory School on April 4. Sophomore Hudsen Young catches the ball running onto the field; he dodges, beats his defender and shoots the ball on the run. His coach, Ryan Brown, knows from the moment Young gets the ball that all he has taught him will come into effect in a matter of seconds. Young perfectly pings the top left corner and gives his team momentum.

The Eagles defeat the Rangers 10-7.

This was not an unusual win for Brown—his teams have consistently performed at a high level. Although this is only Brown’s second year at ESD, the lacrosse team has won the state championships each year under his and Jay Sothoron’s coaching.

Brown’s passion for lacrosse started at an early age in a competitive neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland, where everyone played lacrosse.

“Lacrosse is my favorite sport,” Brown said. “As a kid, you played three sports, and it just went football, basketball and lacrosse.”

Growing up in a fierce lacrosse environment, Brown was surrounded by top-tier competition. More than 20 players in his high school graduating class were committed to National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I programs.

“It wasn’t like I was the

only guy out there [playing lacrosse],” Brown said. “If you weren’t working hard at [it], you were behind.”

The drive from wanting to practice with his friends at a young age led to him having one of the most decorated lacrosse careers at Johns Hopkins University, with 118 goals from 2013 to 2015. He is known for his quick release and deadly accurate shot.

Brown’s ability to shoot the ball wherever and whenever he chooses quickly earned him comparisons to Golden State Warriors player Steph Curry.

“Paul Carcaterra called me [Curry] once on ESPN,” Brown said. “And it just kind of stuck.”

While Brown was outstanding at every level of lacrosse, he remembers a single moment as his favorite: winning a gold medal with Team USA at the 2018 World Lacrosse Championship in Israel.

“That was pretty fun,” Brown said. “We played the game at 9 a.m. because it was their national holiday.

It was just a very interesting experience.”

While playing in the Professional Lacrosse League with the Philadelphia Waterdogs from 2017 to 2019, Brown scored 175 points in 71 games, with 151 goals and 24 assists, making him one of the greatest players the league has ever seen. However, a couple of injuries set him back in the PLL, and he eventually retired from the league in 2022.

“I got really hurt,” Brown said. “I got two bad concussions, hurt my foot, was

PIN POINT ACCURACY Boys lacrosse coach Ryan Brown scores a goal against the California Redwoods while playing with at the Philadelphia Waterdogs.

Photo provided by Ryan Brown

maxed out on cortisone shots and had tendonitis in my hamstring. So, I knew it was time.”

But Brown ended his playing career on a high note, winning the PLL championship with the Waterdogs just before his retirement.

“I was getting married that fall,” Brown said. “It felt like the right moment to shut it off and move forward into a new chapter of my life.”

Today, Brown is the offensive coordinator for the ESD varsity boys lacrosse team, where he helped lead the team to a state championship in 2024. Before coaching at ESD, he coached at High-

land Park High School.

“There are a lot of similarities between ESD and Highland Park,” Brown said.

“So it wasn’t a huge culture shock.”

Brown, who has a 2-yearold son, Beau Brown, has a lot to manage—work, coaching and parenting—but he finds a balance by bringing his son to practice. While he doesn’t expect Beau to fall in love with lacrosse, he hopes his son finds a passion that teaches him the same life lessons that lacrosse has taught him.

“There’s so much value in working hard toward something,” Brown said. “You learn a lot from the journey.”

Interior design | avreaandcompany.com | 214.468.4170

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V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

May 9, 2025

History at the Masters: golf Grand Slam recorded ESD seniors witness Rory McIlroy accomplish one of professional golf's greatest feats at Augusta National Golf Club Craighton Jefferies | Podcast co-editor and subscriptions manager

T

he crowd waits in silence as ushers motion for quiet. Then suddenly, screams erupt at the tee box. Scottie Scheffler, the American professional golf player ranked number one in the world, amazes the crowd.

At the Masters Tournament, which took place from April 10 to 14 at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, senior Hutch Chipman was one of the many fans cheering on Scheffler and watched him smoke a drive on hole 10.

“Seeing Scheffler in person was amazing,” Chipman said. “[Jack Ray, Thomas Barrow, Rett Detwiler and I] followed him for four holes, and the crowd watching him [compared to] other players was insane. He is a hometown guy, from Dallas, Texas, and the best player in the world. It was really cool seeing him getting to play in person.”

The Masters, a golf tournament that started in 1934, is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. As the first major of the year on the Professional Golfers’ Association Tour, it holds a rich history and is a cornerstone of the sport.

“Before [the Masters,] I went to the Byron Nelson [my] freshman year with Vaughn Langston,” Chipman said. “Besides that, I've never been to a golf tournament.”

The Masters is also famous for its various traditions.

These include the iconic green jacket presented to the winner every year, as well as giv-

ing the winner lifetime access to compete in the Masters, regardless of qualification.

There are also traditions for the fans.

“My favorite tradition was leaving phones in the car and not being allowed to have them,” Chipman said. “It made the whole experience 10 times better because all you could do was take in the beauty of the course, watch golf and talk with your friends. Seeing everyone else being phoneless and taking in the moment was really cool to see.”

Another tradition at Augusta National Golf Club is that they rarely change their prices on food, keeping many of the classics at the same price; since 2002, the egg salad and pimento cheese sandwiches have cost $1.50.

“I had most of the foods, but the barbecue pork sandwich and the peach ice cream sandwich definitely lived up to the hype,” Chipman said. “The pimento cheese sandwich was insane, too.”

The winning player also receives access to other esteemed tournaments such as the U.S. Open, British Open and PGA Championship for the next five years. The total prize money, or purse, for each of the four majors is significantly larger compared to other PGA events. The 2025 Masters offered a 21 million dollar purse and over $4 million awarded to the winner This year, the expected winners and favorites were Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.

Other top contenders were Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa,

MASTERS AT WORK Seniors Hutch Chipman, Rett Detwiler, Thomas Barrow and Jack Ray pose for a picture in front of the Masters Tournament entrance last April in Augusta, Georgia. "They did not allow phones inside of the club," Chipman said. "We made a ton of memories together though."

Photo provided by Hutch Chipman

Ludvig Aberg, Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau.

“I was super excited because it was my first time and we wanted to walk through and see the course and the famous pass,” Chipman said.

“Just exploring and seeing [the tournament] in real person was surreal.”

However, during the tournament, underrated players like Justin Rose from England and Patrick Reed from the United States made strides towards winning. This year was the first time since 2017 the Masters went into a playoff; Rose and McIlroy played with McIlroy winning after the first playoff hole.

“I was not there for the playoff or the last day,” Chipman said. “But watching the tournament in person, we went into the stands for hole 16–the par 3–and the reactions and atmosphere were

electric when someone would stick it close. The final day was probably even crazier.”

McIlroy completed the PGA Grand Slam, meaning he won all four PGA majors; the British Open, US Open, PGA Championship and the Masters. McIlroy became the sixth person to complete the Grand Slam, joining Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.

“It was amazing to [see McIlroy win]. Sadly, we only went on Saturday, so [we] had to watch his final round on TV, but we followed him for a couple of holes and seeing him in person was surreal,” Chipman said. “He had waited more than 10 years to secure his grand slam and make history, so going to the Masters, where he was able to complete such a historic accomplishment, is something I will never forget.”

Classroom to calm: student certified as yoga instructor Senior Caroline Rochon turns her passion into purpose, becomes a yoga teacher for CorePower Betty Wheeler | Design editor

A

mid the whirlwind of high school stress, senior Caroline Rochon finds herself taking deep breaths in the quiet yoga studio at CorePower.

Poses such as the downward dog, Chaturanga and tree pose serve as stress relief when she goes to yoga classes.

Rochon began taking yoga classes her sophomore year of high school and decided to become an instructor at CorePower in the spring of her senior year “I wanted to become an instructor because yoga is a huge part of my life and the journey has been monumental,” Rochon said. “It is a safe spot for me and somewhere I can go when a lot is going on in my life.”

The training to become a yoga instructor at CorePower consists of taking 50 hours of training classes before receiving a teacher certificate.

Her training classes were on weekends or late at night: Sundays from noon to 7 p.m., Mondays from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

“After 50 hours of training, I joined something called ATP for advanced yoga practice before my audition,” Rochon said. “At the audition, you have seven minutes to show the [CorePower] managers that you know what you’re doing as they throw random parts of the yoga sequence at you.”

Considering Rochon began her teacher training as a high school senior, she had to find a way to balance her social, emotional and academic life. Rochon would get home at 11 each night she had training, which put her in a difficult situation.

“It was really hard with school and getting home so late each night,” Rochon said.

“But it was all worth it, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my friends' support and love.”

During each class, instructors focus on a specific area of the body, but are required to incorporate exercises that target all major muscle groups. They research various workouts to perform and create a lesson plan ahead of time so people taking the class can follow along.

“Planning a class is a lot more challenging than you would think because everything is based on the beat of the music,” Rochon said. “On Sundays, I focus on [targeting] my lower body, so in the beginning, we do stretches, hitting those areas and [incorporating] pieces that will engage your lower body throughout the class.”

With each exercise being on beat, the instructors must time the exercises with the music. In her training, Rochon learned to master this skill.

“Once you know your focus, every section of the class is a certain amount of time,” Rochon said. “For example, squats are a two-minute flow, so your music must be two minutes long.”

My favorite thing is meeting new people coming to class. Knowing everyone [is] there for a reason and coming together as a community is such a great experience Caroline Rochon Senior

NAMA-SLAY Senior Caroline Rochon teaches a yoga class at CorePower on March 9 in order to get teacher certified. "I felt really accomplished when I finally became certified," Rochon said. "It was an amazing feeling." Photo provided by Caroline Rochon

Through Rochon's journey, she has had the support of her friends. A few of them even went to one of her classes.

“It was cool seeing her teach the class,” senior Addy Mayer said. “She did a really good job and was really motivating to the class.”

Mayer has been able to see Rochon’s growth.

“It’s been so exciting to see her come this far,” Mayer said.

“She has worked so hard for it and I love seeing it pay off.”

The yoga studio serves as a place where Rochon has built a community of people who share the same interests as her. She needed a job to occupy her time, so she chose something she genuinely loves doing.

“My favorite thing is meeting the new people coming to class,” Rochon said. “Knowing everyone [is] there for a reason and all coming together as a community is such a great experience.”

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Slipping through my fingers As graduation is on the horizon, many seniors reflect their time at ESD Alexa Sardiña | Cartoonist

Sept. 12, 2009

Aug. 26, 2017 Oh my goodness, remember when you cut and dyed your hair the day before fifth grade?

Aw, your first day of pre-school. You were so little!

Do you remember your first day of high school with Lauren?

You two were so nervous

Look at you now, you grew up so fast...

Aug. 20, 2021

May 23, 2025

It is surreal to think that someone I have shared a home with is about to start a new chapter, and I imagine it feels more surreal for her. Watching graduation approach from the outside, I have noticed how it brings people together—how suddenly everyone wants to be present, to connect, to soak up the time that is left. There is a kind of quiet community that rises up at the end, one that might have gone unnoticed for four years. If anything, graduation teaches us not just about endings, but about the importance of showing up before they arrive. I hope the rest of us—underclassmen, siblings and friends—really hear those little reminders during senior chapel talks that time moves fast, because it does. The best thing we can do is live like we know.

Alexa Sardiña Sophomore cartoonist

I want to share with you: My stoic secrets to sucess

T

hese phrases altered my brain chemistry, turned my world upside down and forced me to take a long look in the mirror. First: “Your thoughts create your reality.” - Marcus Aurelius Now, you may be underwhelmed, since you’ve probably heard this phrase before and don’t understand how it could be so powerful. But this phrase highlights that you control every single aspect of you, and when you act with this in mind, it is absolutely life-changing. Last summer, Stoicism changed my life. Here are some of my favorite Stoic quotes that I do my best to live by every day.

“It is not in our control to have everything turn out exactly as we want, but it is in our control to control how we respond to what happens.” - Epictetus It is imperative to take control over your own life, your own emotions and your own goals. This may sound like tough love, but NO ONE can make you angry, only YOU can make you

angry. No one can MAKE YOU think sad thoughts, you have full control over your mindset and your emotions.

In life, it is too easy to make excuses, to blame others and to let yourself down.

Next time you start feeling angry or sad, I challenge you to take a deep breath, search deep inside yourself and think about the root of this anger inside of you.

Once you’ve pinpointed that root, try to shift your perspective, and you’ll find that you can also shift your emotional response.

Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent,” which means that you, and only you, are in control of how others make you feel. In order for someone to hurt you, you have to give them the power to do so, so don’t. Understanding the power you have over yourself, and most importantly, acting with that power in mind, will change your life.

"We suffer more often in imagination than in reality." - Seneca Our brains can be a scary

Highschool can be hard, but a little advice from history's great influencers can go a long way Jess Coit | Senior guest writer

place. Between overthinking, anxiety and negativity, it is so easy to become comfortable with thoughts like “I can’t do it.” Someone I used to know constantly repeated, “Do not suffer imagined troubles,” whenever I began to audibly doubt myself. Now, whenever I slip down a mental well of “But what if…” I say this phrase to myself. “Do not suffer imagined troubles,” echoed endlessly in my mind when I worried that I’d fail my physics test, that colleges wouldn’t think I’m worthy or that people didn’t think I’m enough.

My mom often asks, “Why would I invite a problem into my life?” and it seems obvious that the answer would be “You wouldn’t,” but that is exactly what we do when we suffer imagined troubles.

We create these problems all by ourselves and for ourselves. It is hard to put up that boundary and force those negative thoughts out. But with practice, it becomes easier. And once we stop holding ourselves back, no one can stop us.

This quote isn’t from Stoicism, I just like it: “The universe has no budget” - J.B.S. Haldane The only limits that we have are the limits we place upon ourselves. If your goal is to play three sports, get all As and all while having a social life, do it. If you want to become the very best writer, athlete, painter or singer, do it. Do not place arbitrary limits on yourself based on what sounds “hard” or “impossible.”

If you want to be robotics club president and homecoming queen, do it.

The last quote I will leave you with is probably my favorite. It has carried me through hard times and pushed me until one day, I stopped, and looked back on my life with a sense of pride. Yeah, I did that. The quote is, “They never said it would be easy, but they did say it would be worth it,” by Mae West. Hard things are hard. Life sucks sometimes.

But taking back your control and looking toward the positive makes life so much better; it is hard, but so very worth it.

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V42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Sports

May 9, 2025

The final whistle: a goodbye to high school sports and brotherhood

Sports editor Ethan Pham offers his insights on the life of student-athletes at ESD as well as his takes on sports. Through his personal experiences and analysis, he sheds light on the challenges, triumphs and daily routines of balancing academics with athletics.

W

ell, I hate to say it, but my time in sports has come to an end. It feels weird because I have yet to accept that I might never play a sport again.

I will probably never be part of a team with all my high school friends and share the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows together.

This all started in fifth grade when I joined my first real sports team. I played peewee baseball and soccer, but never fell in love with either and didn’t really enjoy them. Transferring from Lamplighter to ESD in fifth grade was an interesting journey because sports are more intense at ESD than they were at Lamplighter.

I remember my first practice with my new tackle football team, the Red Tide. Senior Vaughn Langston’s dad, Greg Langston, organized the team and helped coach. I remember how friendly he was to my family and me, making us feel at home.

During a tackling drill, I remember him hyping me up and getting me excited. I think that was the moment I knew I wanted to take

Eagle Edition Eagle Edition | Vol. 42, Issue 6

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sports more seriously.

Mr. Langston also encouraged me to try lacrosse in sixth grade.

I wasn’t sure at first, but I decided to give it a shot. Soon, I began to love it. To be honest, I was only initially drawn to it because it just looked cool—the gear, the sticks and the whole vibe. I loved it all. However, I was not good at it, and to be honest, am still not that great. Watching the varsity team play in the state championship and win, I continued to have big dreams as a middle schooler.

In middle school, I was able to play football and lacrosse, along with wrestling. I wanted to excel in all three because I loved the contact and playing the sport. Those three reasons were pretty much my drive until the end of my sophomore year football season.

Our sophomore football team was amazing. We started 6-0, then in the last three games, fell to 7-2. I was very disappointed we didn’t finish with a championship, however, the part that got me the most was realizing I was done playing with that senior class. Whenever that season ended, I realized how much I missed being with that team and all the

News editor Lilly Traylor Life editor Beau McKnight Arts editor Josephine Holmes Views editor Gracie Nealon

Staff writers Veda Bodhanampati, Cassidy Brausa, Blake Dundon, Searcy Ferguson, Elizabeth Francis, Lauren George, Hayden Houston, Rawaan Khan, Gabriela LoewenEells, Carter Maddox, McCall Moore, Britt Reynolds, Noelle Stovall, Harley West, Nahla Whittier and Isabella Villegas

Sports editor Margot Cathey

Cartoonist Alexa Sardiña

Communications manager Sheridan Bailey

Web editors Stella Bartley and Barrett Coble

Faculty advisor Ana Rosenthal

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Design editor Betty Wheeler

Design Editor Betty Wheeler

Podcast editors Jack Coben and Craighton Jefferies

Copy editor Anoushka Sinha

Video Editor Annabel Brown

Social media managers Lincoln Clarke and Kate Lewis

memories we created together.

But this year my reason for playing sports was because of my brothers on my team. I call them brothers because they are like family to me. I would take a bullet for anyone on that squad to this day, and that goes for the lacrosse team as well.

A big reason for me being so passionate about sports is coach Mosley, who has been my mentor since the day eighth grade ended and summer workouts for football started. He was always there for me and made an effort to become more than just a coach. He pushed me harder than I wanted to be pushed because he saw something in me. I got bigger and stronger that summer, which helped me excel in my freshman year of football.

I eventually got pulled up to the varsity football team as a freshman, and it meant the world to me. I don’t think the coaches would have even thought of bringing me up if it weren't for my man Mo. Now, as a senior in high school and with my final ESD days ahead of me, I have been thinking a lot about everything that has happened since I got

here. Still, it was not until early April that I started appreciating what I had gained from ESD. This entire year, I have been thinking and saying how happy I am that this is my last year of sports, and I can’t wait to be in college in Athens. But now I’m upset that this was my mentality all year, instead of appreciating the moment while I was in it.

I have talked to the older guys I played football and lacrosse with, and they say playing high school sports is the best experience they have ever had. One even said he wished he ran every sprint harder during conditioning and would go back to those days in a heartbeat.

I already know I will think this way next year when I am in college, and my only physical activity will be working out on my own.

I am so thankful for everything I have experienced in high school sports. It was a once-ina-lifetime experience. I wouldn’t trade my four years for anything, and I am going to look back on them for my entire life. If any of my teammates -- my brothers-are reading this, just know I love you, and I am going to miss you next year.

EDITORIAL POLICY The staff abides by the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics. The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the adviser, faculty or staff.

This is a student-run publication and a forum for student voices. All images in the Eagle Edition are student produced, republished with permission, are in the public domain or fall within fair-use practices for criticism and news reporting.

Eagle Edition | Vol. 42, Issue 6 The Episcopal School of Dallas 4100 Merrell Rd. Dallas, TX 75229 eagleedition@esdallas.org (214) 358-4368

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V.42 Issue 6 | Eagle Edition | Path to Now

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Recognizing the Class of 2025’s college commitments James Altizer | Dartmouth College Wyatt Ayres | University of Texas at Austin Josephine Bank | Indiana University Thomas Barrow | University of Texas at Austin Owen Bellson | Hampden-Sydney College Dario Benaglia | Hampden-Sydney College Tristan Blackwell | Benedictine University Elle Brennan | San Diego State University Xander Bromberg | Texas A&M University Tessa Cabrales | Texas A&M University Will Campbell | Texas Christian University Landen Capetillo | Oklahoma Baptist University Campbell Carothers | University of Mississippi Matthew Charlton | Vanderbilt University Vivian Chen | Texas A&M University Hutch Chipman | Yale University Sarah Chiste | Southern Methodist University McKenzie Clancy | University of Texas at Austin Katherine Clark | Sewanee: the University of the South Jess Coit | Vanderbilt University Jack Cronin | Rice University Tatum Croucher | Southern Methodist University Rett Detwiler | University of Texas at Austin Matthew Durante | Auburn University Brooke Ebner | Northwestern University Carolina Elizondo | Undecided Jake Elliston | University of Georgia Ella Ferguson | Wake Forest University Ella Floyd | Southern Methodist University Aubrey Fomin | Wake Forest University Dana Friedrich | Clemson University Emma Garrison | Texas Tech University Jesi Geier | Texas State University Jake Gierkey | Blinn College Alexander Gillikin | Auburn University Fernando Gomez-Quinonez | Boston College Austin Goodiel | Indiana University Declan Graham | Texas A&M University Jett Guy | Indiana University Sebastian Guzik | University of Texas at Austin Lyle Hawkins | University of Texas at Austin Jamie Henderson | Texas Christian University Caitlin Hills | Florida State University Logan Hope | University of Texas at Austin Katelyn Hurt | Wellesley University Jake Infante | University of Florida Zach Javaherian | University of Arkansas James Jones | University of Texas at Austin Roman Jovanovic | Indiana University Arbaz Khalid | Baylor University Ayaan Khan | Baylor University Kate Kornman | Indiana University Connor Kowalewski | Binghamton University Sarah Lane | Oklahoma University Vaughn Langston | University of Alabama Kent Lanyon | Indiana University Jane Leopard | University of Alabama Cindy Lin | Massachusetts Institute of Technology Ritvik Maridi | Bentley University Bobby Massoud | Southern Methodist University Cheney Mathes | University of Georgia Luke Mauser | Mercer University Addy Mayer | Texas Christian University Phoebe McMillan | Texas Christian University Sofia Mercado | University of Texas at Austin Libby Miller | University of Mississippi Brady Miltenberger | Auburn University Benjamin Moorman | University of Notre Dame Milam Olson | University of Texas at Austin Brady Osterstock | Pennsylvania State University Jane Pennington | Texas Tech University Ryder Perez | Oklahoma University Ethan Pham | University of North Georgia Jack Provost | Southern Methodist University Nina Rastin | Brown University Jack Ray | University of Texas at Austin Caroline Rochon | Texas Christian University Alden Rodgers | Clemson University Ivy Runyon | Texas Christian University Sophia Sardiña | Vanderbilt University John Schindel | Wake Forest University Lauren Shushi | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Brooklyn Singer | University of Texas at Austin Emily Singleton | Oklahoma State University Sophie Stager | Wake Forest University William Stahl | Washington and Lee University Addison Stibbens | Baylor University Evan Terra | University of Mississippi Clara Tolleson | University of Texas at Austin Charlotte Traylor | Stanford University Liam Walters | Texas Christian University John Weinmeister | Texas A&M University Johnny Willingham | Texas Christian University Daniella Woodhouse | Texas Christian University Abby Wooley | Southern Methodist University Andrew Wysk | Pomona College Zaen Zaidi | Texas A&M University Parmida Zandinejad | University of Southern California Mae Zimmer | North Carolina State University

442 acceptances to 155 colleges and universities 174 scholarships granted $11.27 million in scholarship money Source: ESD College Guidance