Issuu

News that Stands Out

THE KNIGHT TIMES Official Student Newspaper of Episcopal High School

August 2026

4650 Bissonnet, Bellaire, Texas 77401

EHS phone ban benefits student relationships

www.ehshouston.org

Volume 42, Issue 1

Seniors gather for Senior Sunrise

The Class of 2027 celebrates the beginning of senior year

PAIGE PAN Opinions Editor This school year, Episcopal High School introduced a new cell phone policy, joining a growing national movement to limit students’ access to smartphones during the school day. Schools nationwide, spanning across more than 35 states, have adopted similar restrictions in response to concerns about distractions, social media, and students’ growing dependence on their devices. At Episcopal, however, the decision is about more than simply improving students’ focus in class. The policy is closely connected to Episcopal’s mission and Four Pillars, which emphasize meaningful relationships. The school maintains that smartphones can create a “counterfeit form of connection,” replacing genuine interactions with social media, notifications, and algorithms, which are designed to capture attention and keep users hooked. By putting phones away, Episcopal hopes students will spend less time looking at screens and more time developing friendships and connections with one another. The transition may not be easy. Students are accustomed to checking their phones between classes, messaging friends, listening to music, and reaching for their devices whenever they are bored. The Guardian reports that many high schoolers across the nation support reducing their screen time but also believe schools should help students develop healthier relationships with technology and provide meaningful alternatives to being on their phones. For Episcopal, the hope is that putting phones away will create more opportunities for students to interact with one another. Without a screen to turn to, a passing conversation, a shared activity, or even a moment of boredom can become an opportunity for connection. In this sense, the policy is not simply about limiting technology, but about making room for relationships and experiences that can easily be overlooked when students are constantly connected to their devices.

The Class of 2027 circles up for an opening prayer by Reverend Tyler Montgomery, kicking off their last year of high school. Photo by Mr. Charles Holt. KARIANA CARLSON Executive Editor

“It was an amazing time to celebrate the beginning of a new year with our friends. It really set in that we are beginning the last year of high school. Senior Sunrise was a bittersweet event to kick off our last first day at Episcopal High School. This senior year will be an exciting time to make lasting memories before everyone leaves for college.” Learn more about Senior Sunrise on Page 3

Freshmen excited to start their high school career CHARLOTTE MENHERT Senior Editor The Class of 2030 has made its entrance. EHS just welcomed the new students and their families to the school through two main events: Opening Knight and Knight School. These events were organized to help the freshman feel more prepared and connected for the upcoming school year. Opening Knight took place on August 12 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Students were able to pick up their laptops and Class of 2030 t-shirts. They met staff and FAM leaders as well as members of the Technology Department to help set up their laptops. The freshmen connected with old friends and new peers in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, excited about the year ahead. Knight School took place August 17-18, serving as an orientation where students learned about community building and had opportunity to become comfortable with campus life. A technology support session was held to ensure all the proper New school year activities

INSIDE

Gong squad and EHS opening events

PAGE 3

applications were downloaded. Advisories explored campus and learned the way of an EHS Knight. The freshmen also attended Chapel and learned about Knight Life. These experiences helped them understand what will be going on during their next four years of high school. The events were designed to help form

meaningful connections among the new students and families to EHS. They held much more meaning than just learning about schedules and seeing the campus. The two-day welcome allowed the Class of 2030 to form friendships that can last a lifetime and learn what it is like being a student at EHS.

Catherine Weitzel, Reed Monsour, Reece Abney, Armaan Gurnani, and Noah Gillani build Legos together during freshman orientation. Photo by Laney Hill. Current Houston events

Featuring All Things Fashion, World Cup, Bon Apetit, Houston Happenings

PAGE 5

Features ......................... Entertainment ................ Culture ......................... Opinion ....................... Sports ............................ Knight Shift ..................

2-3 4 5 6 7 8

Features ∙ Page 2

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

with new faculty and staff

COURTNEY ELKINS History Department

ANNA CAROTHERS-DUNBAR

Years of experience: 19

Years of experience: 5

First year teaching!

New role: World History 1 & 2 Teacher, Softball Coach

New role: AP Economics & US History Teacher, SOS Advisor

New role: Algebra 1 & Geometry Teacher, Debate Coach

New role: God and Scripture 1 & World Religions Teacher

New role: Chemistry I Teacher & Girls Soccer Coach

Favorite Song: “Vienna” by Billy Joel

Goals: “To make students feel safe but challenged.”

Favorite Song: “All Your’n” by Tyler Childers

Goals: “To inspire students to be curious.”

CHARLES HARRISON Performing Arts Department

CHLOE SHUPE Math Department

NATHANAEL CHAPA Science Department

LEAH MADOF English Department

JACKSON VAUGHN Science Department

Years of experience: 20

First year teaching!

New role: Dean of Arts

New role: Precalculus Teacher, Performing Arts Producer

New role: Biology 1 & Forensic Science Teacher

Goals: “To bring energy and enthusiasm”

Favorite Song: “Risk It All” by Bruno Mars

ZAC CALHOUN Math Department

History Department

Goals: “To make math exciting!”

Favorite Song: “Dusty Bibles” by Josiah Queen

SAM GRIFFITHS Religion Department

Years of experience: 20

LIZ ADAMS Science Department Years of experience: 6

Years of experience: 1

New role: English 2 Teacher

New role: Biology 1 Teacher

Goals: “To share my love of books and joy for education.”

Favorite Song: “Heaven On My Mind” by TobyMac

The Knight Times PRZMEK TOKARSKI

World Languages Department

NANA ASABERE Science Department

ERIC SACHSE

History Department

Years of experience: 25+

Years of experience: 15

First year teaching!

New role: Spanish 2 & 3 Teacher, XC Coach

New role: Chemistry 1 Teacher

Goals: “To bring my engaging personality to colleagues and students.”

Favorite Song: Anything by Lauren Daigle

New role: World History 2 & Government Teacher, Football Coach Goals: “To bring positive energy”

by The Knight Times

Episcopal High School 4650 Bissonnet, Bellaire, TX 77450 713-512-3400 Head of School Mr. Ned Smith

Opinions Editor Paige Pan Sports Editor Clayton Cox

Dean of Academics Mr. Andrew Clack

Social Media Coordinator Bentley Beich

Dean of Students Mr. Isaiah Coleman

Staff Writers Scarlett Schmitt Patricia Casahuga Lemgruber Sophie Hays Charlie Stasney William Fitts Bear Thomas

Dean of Arts Mr. Charles Harrison

Publications Coordinator Mr. David Framel Editors-in-Chief Daria Massey Caroline Johnson Executive Editor Kariana Carlson Senior Editor Charlotte Mehnert

TEDDY BOWERS, Business Office Accountant

Features Editor Anya Kale

Associate Heads of School The Rev. Tyler Montgomery Mrs. Evelyn Cambria

Visual Arts Chair Mr. Japheth Storlie

Photos by Piper Beck and Mr. Charles Holt.

Copy Editor Julia Levan

Production Editor Mimi Wright

Photojournalism Instructor Ms. Kelly Quarles Photojournalism Editors Jack Zoeller Laney Hill, Assistant Editor Photographers Piper Beck Caroline Buja Peyton Stewart Adaline Bailey Sadie Lawrence Noah Baltodano Emerson Kovacs Carter Rose Alex Neuhaus

MARIA CALZADA, Interim Accounting + Human Resource Manager MATTHEW COOK, Lead Cook CESAR DE LA CRUZ, Cook III SANTRY RUSH, Assistant Technical Director MARVIN WILSON, Equipment Manager & Facilities Coordinator

The Knight Times is a product of students in the Episcopal High School newspaper class, who are solely responsible for its creation and editorial content. The opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of the Episcopal Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, and staff. Published ten times a year, The Knight Times is a non-profit educational tool. The staff encourages the submission of letters, editorials, and story ideas from the community, but reserves the right to edit and/or use said articles.

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

Features ∙ Page 3

EHS Knights come back strong for the new year KARIANA CARLSON Executive Editor As the school year begins, students, faculty, and parents came together for several events designed to welcome the community back to campus and start the year with annual Episcopal High School traditions. The EHS Parents Association kicked off the school year with its Volunteer Rally on Tuesday, August 18 in Alkek Gym. The event gave parents an opportunity to meet one another, learn about ways to volunteer, and get involved within the community. This event was especially helpful for the freshman parents new to EHS. On the first day of school, the seniors celebrated their “last first day” of high school with Senior Sunrise on Simmons Field. Many arrived with painted cars and huge smiles for the celebration of their final high school year. The seniors gathered at 7 a.m. to receive spirit wear and t-shirts before enjoying breakfast treats, coffee, and smoothies. At the end, the class gathered for their first senior blessing and photo before heading to their advisories.

Another long-standing tradition, the Honor Book Signing, welcomed new faculty, staff, and students to EHS. Each new member pledged not to lie, cheat, or steal and to uphold the EHS values of honesty and integrity. This tradition reflects the importance of the Honor Code and its role in shaping the school’s culture. Additionally, college application season is officially underway at EHS. Beginning in May and continuing in August, seniors attended workshops, met college representatives, and received guidance on applications, essays, financial aid, and the admission process. College counseling would like to remind everyone that upperclassmen are encouraged to plan ahead and take advantage of all opportunities to explore colleges throughout the year. Finally, parents enjoyed the Back to School Knight tradition, a chance to experience the noisy hallways of high school life firsthand. Parents followed their child’s schedule, moving from class to class while meeting teachers and experiencing the short five-minute passing periods. Although each class was brief, the evening gave parents a glimpse of the structure and pace of each school day.

CHECKING

WITH KARIANA CARLSON

For many seniors, the start of the school year marks more than returning to classes. It also marks the beginning of a balancing act between being a high school student, becoming a college applicant, and attending all the senior festivities. Instead of making memories, senior year can become a race to submit applications before we even have the chance to settle into our final year. During the school day, seniors are focused on tests, assignments, practices, activities, and friends. Once the school day ends, however, another set of responsibilities begins. Homework. Studying. And then…supplemental essays, personal statements, the Common App activities section. For some students, the process began before the first day of school. Summer, traditionally a time for relaxing and catching up on sleep, soon transformed into an opportunity to begin drafting essays, researching colleges, and finalizing resumes. I spent many hours of my time this summer sitting out on my back deck, drafting many versions of the “why your major” or “why our school” essays. Now, those responsibilities must be managed alongside the demands of senior year.

The challenge is not necessarily the amount of work from either responsibility, but the difficulty of managing both at once. A major test or busy week of practices does not make an application deadline disappear. Spending hours on an essay does not eliminate the next day’s math homework due at 8 a.m. As applications continue throughout the fall, seniors are learning how to prioritize their time without allowing college admissions to take over their final year of high school. Setting aside specific times for applications and breaking larger tasks into smaller goals can make the process more manageable. I find that taking one step at a time, and prioritizing which step has the earliest deadline, is the most efficient way for me to complete everything without extra added stress. It is also important to ask for help from college counselors when needed and remember that applications do not have to consume every free moment of senior year. We have spent years working toward this moment, and now, we deserve to experience it, leaving with an application we are proud of and memories we are even more proud to have made.

Gong Squad gears up for another spirited season WILLIAM FITTS Staff Writer

Syon Doshi, Kailin Tang, Lauren Budoff, and Elizabeth Brantley dress out in feathers and tiaras for Senior Sunrise. Photo courtesy of EHS Instagram.

Episcopal students stand out as summer interns BENTLEY BEICH Social Media Coordinator For many students, summer means a break from school, but for several EHS students, it became an opportunity to step into professional environments and experience possible future careers firsthand. For senior Liz Heyburn, it meant witnessing something she will never forget: the birth of a baby. Liz spent six weeks in Baylor College of Medicine’s High School Student Summer Internship Program in Clinical Research at Texas Children’s Hospital, focusing on obstetrics and gynecology. After applying to at least five medical internships, Liz earned a spot among a group of 11 high school interns. Her mornings included lectures from physicians and researchers, including a fetal surgeon who showed students ultrasound footage of surgery performed on a fetus still in the womb. In the afternoons, Liz researched a topic connecting obstetrics and space medicine before presenting her findings to the department. Liz entered the operating room to

observe robotic surgery using the da Vinci system and, most memorably, a C-section delivery. “It was an indescribable feeling seeing someone be born. I am so very lucky for that experience,” Liz said. After six weeks surrounded by doctors, researchers, and patients, she said the experience solidified her interest in clinical research and medicine. Meanwhile, Graham Whitehead, Ballard Hill, and Thomas Fitts spent their time in the East Texas oil fields. Working ninehour days as roustabouts for R. Lacy, they joined pumpers and mechanics to check wells for leaks, collect production data, replace pipes, and maintain large engines at compressor stations. Whitehead said the job taught him independence and time management while giving him an inside look at an industry he may want to become a part of. From researching medicine to maintaining natural gas wells, these internships allowed EHS students to do more than simply consider future careers. They spent their summers experiencing what those careers look like and discovering which paths might be worth pursuing.

For the athletics season, four new faces are the voices and leaders of the student section. After being nominated by classmates and surviving intense interviews, seniors Graham Whitehead, Bennett Abaza, Anderson Adams, and Parks Gregg look to bolster support and energy for all sports team within the Episcopal community. All four will bring different strengths with the intention of working together seamlessly. This year, none of the group plays football, something they believe could become one of its greatest strengths. Bennett, who has plenty of leadership experience from captaining the lacrosse team, will strengthen the energy of the student section by introducing cowbells. Additionally, to prepare the freshmen for the rowdy game environments, Bennett and Graham presented past hype videos during one of their class meetings. Another part of their mission this year is

to expand their presence across multiple sports. When asked about how they would do that, Graham described how they plan to send more emails to the student body offering incentives for students to attend the less-attended events, such as girls and boys volleyball and field hockey. While Graham and Bennett handle the sports aspect of Gong Squad, Parks and Anderson will focus their attention on planning and preparing for the school pep rallies. They hope to get more teachers and students involved than ever before and want to increase the friendly competition between grade levels. Ultimately, their ambition is for everyone to embrace the spirit of Episcopal High School. The formidable foursome will also assist in organizing and planning the themes for sports games. They look to bring back the most well-received attire while also having new ideas of their own. The squad showed off their skills and preparation during Episcopal football’s season opener against St. Thomas and look to continue their passion and energy for the rest of the year.

Gong squad members Anderson Adams, Bennett Abaza, Parks Gregg, and Graham Whitehead start the year off on a high beat. Photo by Caroline Buja.

Entertainment ∙ Page 4

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

Summer blockbusters cause shares to hit a record high

A1 Cinema ANYA KALE Features Editor

JULIA LEVAN Copy Editor

This past summer we had some great movies come out such as The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day. All my friends and family members were getting tickets to see both movies multiple times. While they were deciding what seats to get, I started thinking: “Before buying the movie ticket, why not buy a share of the company making money from it?” Let’s take IMAX for example. Before The Odyssey hit theatres, IMAX was trading at around $39 a share. The movie was already one of the most anticipated films of the summer, and Christopher Nolan filmed the movie entirely with IMAX cameras. During its opening weekend, The Odyssey brought in about $52 million globally through IMAX theatres. It also set an IMAX record for its international opening weekend. Within about a week of the movie’s

Christopher Nolan has successfully translated The Odyssey from the page to screen and has done justice to the poem’s scale and grandeur. From the stunning visuals and intricately designed practical effects that immerse the audience in the Kingdom of Ithaca and the island home of Polyphemus release, IMAX stock had climbed to Ludwig Göransson’s poignant to around $44 a share. That’s a $5 gain on one share, which is roughly score designed with reconstructed traditional Greek instruments, this one-third of the cost of a movie film is a massive cinematic feat. ticket. Of course, this method is I found the practical effects to be not guaranteed. A successful movie its most notable quality. The Odysdoes not automatically mean a sey featured a 60-foot-tall puppet successful investment, but that’s to achieve the terrifying grandeur what makes the connection interof the Cyclops, a combination of esting. Sony Pictures distributed Spider-Man: Brand New Day while actors of different sizes to emphacompanies like Cinemark benefited size the towering quality of the Laestrygonians, and prosthetic from people filling theatre seats. makeup to mold Odysseus’ soldiers By early August, Spider-Man: Brand New Day had already made into pigs. These effects enhance the story by bolstering the authenticmore than $1.6 billion worldwide. So, next time your group chat is arguing about which movie to see, take a second before you pull out your card. Look at the studio, theatre chain, and technology behind it. You might just find yourself a stock worth watching. The next time you hear, “Have you seen that movie yet?” ask yourself: “Who’s making money every time someone says yes?”

HEAR ME OUT

ity of the cinematic experience. Consequently, The Odyssey demonstrates remarkable creativity and innovation in its visual effects. A potential criticism of the movie is that it focuses excessively on character development and character relationships. However, the emphasis on character perspective was refreshing because it forced the audience to recognize how the epic’s biggest themes - war, trauma, longing, and pride - influence the characters and their actions. Specifically, Odysseus was considerably more introspective in Nolan’s adaptation than in the poem. He actively ponders the consequences of his brutality in Troy and how his own hubris results in the fate of his fellow soldiers. Beneath the film’s impressive cinematography, The Odyssey succeeds through its intense exploration of the original Homeric poem’s enduring themes and ideas.

Matt Damon and Zendaya in the Odyssey film as Odysseus and Athena. Photo courtesy of latimes.com.

Reality TV and romance dramas dominate the television airwaves album shines. I was surprised with with Caroline Johnson

Imagine my surprise this morning, just scrolling through Spotify, when I saw that only hours earlier, Saliva had released a new album: Breaking Through. Talk about perfect timing. After a summer of lackluster new music, it definitely feels great to see some movement in the rock genre. As a fan of their early music, I didn’t know what to expect. Today, Saliva contains none of its original members, the people who brought us the visceral “Suffocate” and “Click Click Boom.” The raw, unpolished sound of their earlier albums (akin to early Limp Bizkit) is something truly special. Even their later music, like “Always,” stands out among other nu-metal bands. As I played the first track, the band’s progression became clear. Both “Hit ‘Em Where It Hurts” and “Cope” sounded like a recreation of Linkin Park. Not bad, but not OG Saliva. It’s in their collabs that the

how much I enjoyed “Longshot,” featuring Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd. It’s on the edge of being a little too country to be considered rock anymore, but I’ll let it slide. It’s just the kind of song that The Buzz loves to air. Austin John Winkler on “Too Broke To Fix” is great as well. The album frequently featured uplifting lyrics. I’m usually one to call out corny writing, but I can get behind it this time. “Fight of My Life” and even “Edge of a Knife” struck me as overall positive songs. Again, something that Linkin Park is known for. This new look suits singer Bobby Amaru’s voice, I’ll admit. Let’s be honest, Saliva is not the band they used to be. I don’t think we’ll ever get that pure garage-y sound again, but that doesn’t mean we should dismiss them entirely. My verdict on Breaking Through: it’s nothing groundbreaking, but certainly worth a listen.

SCARLETT SCHMITT Staff Writer

This summer, Love Island USA released yet another popular season, resulting in season 8 being the most watched streaming series of the summer. The show premiered on June 2, 2026 and ran until July 12, 2026. The dramatic cast, along with the captivating host Ariana Madix, led to many Americans making Love Island their nightly watch. The realness of this summer’s contestants, both in their romantic and platonic relationships, is what really got a hold of America. Part of Love Island’s popularity can be credited to viewers watchers and their ability to vote for their favorite couple or least favorite islander, allowing America to have an actual say in who gets to stay on the island. America loved several couples, but Bryce Dettloff and Trinity Tatum

took the cake as the winners of this season. The romance genre certainly dominated TV this summer with Sterling Point being fully released on August 5th, debuting its first season. The coming of age drama series follows Annie Jacobson, whose twin is Connor Jacobson. They are both left a cottage in Muskoka, Canada, by their grandfather. After it’s revealed to Annie that her family hasn’t been completely truthful, she heads to Canada to discover the truth. Like most coming of age television shows, romance and friendship are the primary focuses of this show, highlighting the conflict that many teenagers face. The main character, Annie, falls into a love triangle with two boys, Rory and Ellis, while also navigating her friendship and familial relationship with Romana. Overall, Sterling Point captures the excitement of summer alongside growing up.

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

Culture ∙ Page 5

ALL THINGZ fashion something is trending doesn’t mean you need to follow it, let alone like it. Recently, I’ve felt like the overconsumpFOMO marketing is an interesting and tion of clothing has become extremely effective sales strategy: it makes people normalized. I see lots of videos of people feel like they need to purchase something opening packages with 15 to 20 new - like they will be missing out if they clothing pieces inside. I think the best way don’t have this piece of clothing. I feel to shop is to be extremely selective about like the second I open social media, I am your purchases. You do not need the same immediately met with influencers trying tank top in every color. Be thoughtful with to get me to purchase clothes I don’t need. what you spend your money on; For example, I feel like there are always don’t just buy something because it’s some kinds of athletic shorts that everyone extremely inexpensive or because you are is wearing. First, it was Lululemon, then attracted to the brand logo. And when you it was Free People, and now it’s Alo. And don’t wear something anymore, don’t be then there’s other brands like Parke and afraid to donate or resell it. Daily Drills that sell out within minutes What’s really trending right now is havafter a drop. ing your own, authentic style, and I think Amidst all this online shopping chaos, I that many are struggling to grasp what feel like it’s easy to lose touch with your that truly means to them after decades of own sense of style. Truth is, just because trying to fit in and be like everyone else. DARIA MASSEY Co-Editor-in-Chief

Daily Drills shows off their new lounge wear line. Photo courtesy of DailyDrills.com.

USA hosts 2026 Soccer World Cup As for the World Cup itself, it is a shame that our U.S. men’s team only made it so far, but the camaraderie at these matches was unparalleled, even by American sports standards. The reigning ArgentinOver the last six months, the FIFA ian team went on a roll, winning every World Cup has been a staple in many match despite being down for most of Americans’ lives. their games. The Spanish National Team From U.S. stadiums being reserved for various matches to entire cities being was the ultimate victor, toppling Lionel overrun by hundreds of fans who traveled Messi and the defending champions, and featured young Lamine Yamal, the first from across the globe to see their team teenager to play in both a UEFA European play, the once-every-four-year event can Championship final and a FIFA World impact a host nation. Cup final. Many fans visited North America for While this World Cup came with its fair the first time, and social media covered share of controversy, the genuine love for every aspect of their experiences. The fascination with and reaction to American the event was what truly mattered. With stores and foreign customs was hilarious 48 different countries participating across to watch. From patronizing a Buckee’s for 16 host cities, it was obvious that soccer is different. While other sports may divide the first time to the amount of fast food consumed, it is safe to say every traveler people, the World Cup showed that people have more fun when united. was in awe. CLAYTON COX Sports Editor

BENTLEY BEICH Social Media Coordinator August in Houston may be hot and feel dreadful for students as school starts up, but the city has plenty going on to make getting outside worth it. From dressing in all white to trying a new restaurant, some of Houston’s favorite traditions are back this month. Kicking off the month was White Linen Night in the Heights, which celebrated its 20th anniversary on August 1. Thousands headed to 19th Street in the Heights dressed in white for an evening filled with live music, local vendors, food, and shopping. The Houston tradition began in 2006 after New Orleans transplants brought the idea to the Heights following Hurricane

PATRICIA CASHUGA LEMGRUBER Staff Writer As the sun starts to set, Tiny Boxwoods transports you onto the set of a picture-perfect movie with lush gardens and blooming flowers surrounding your French bistro-style table in a beautiful and cozy pavilion. The vibes inside are lively, yet extremely homey. The restaurant

Tiny Boxwood’s delicious burger. Photo courtesy of instagram.com.

Argentina’s Lamine Yamal defends against Spain’s Nicolas Tagliafico in the World Cup final. Photo courtesy of TikTok.com.

serves as the backdrop for families celebrating birthdays and friends gathering to finally catch up. The atmosphere already stands out, but what makes Boxwoods a place to come back to is the classic menu.

Katrina. What started to support local businesses has grown into one of Houston’s most recognizable summer events. Houston Theater Week returned from August 24-30 as Houstonians found BOGO ticket offers for nearly 400 performances. The deals included everything from musicals and plays to ballet and opera, making it an easy opportunity to experience Houston’s performing arts scene without paying full price. Finally, Houston Restaurant Weeks runs through September 7, giving Houstonians an excuse to try somewhere new while supporting a good cause. Participating restaurants offer special multi-course menus for $25 lunches and brunches and $39 or $55 dinners. A portion of each meal benefits Houston Food Bank. Go out for a great meal, deal, and cause.

To start the meal, a glass of the house mint lemonade makes for a perfect preview of the restaurant’s flavor. The lemonade balances sweet and sour perfectly, leaning slightly crisper than a usual lemonade due to the extra mint taste. Following the refreshing beverage, the Lucky Burger is a house favorite main course. The burger is a high-end take on the classic hamburger. Instead of complicating or fully changing the tried-and-true recipe, the chefs focus on just adding their spin on the dish with the Lucky sauce. The house sauce has a savory, slightly tangy taste that elevates the meal, without being overpowering at all. Served with your own choice of an equally delicious side (classic or sweet potato French fries, petite salad, fresh fruit or the soup of the day), the meal leaves customers completely satisfied and even a bit full. A true experience at Tiny Boxwoods is never complete without the one and only Tiny’s chocolate chip cookie. The fan favorite dessert is an absolute must have when dining due to the baker’s clear mastery of “the perfect cookie.” The cookie has an ideal balance of soft and crunchy, with golden-baked edges surrounding a chewy and warm center. Plain or alongside some vanilla ice cream or a coffee, the cookie ties together the whole evening into a perfectly loving and comforting experience.

Opinions ∙ Page 6

Opinions

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

Daylight savings ignites debate Mandatory civics class in schools over America’s old traditions promotes a more engaged society

CAROLINE JOHNSON Co-Editor-in-Chief To me, Daylight Savings Time (DST) fits in with most great American traditions - highly-debated and seemingly outdated. It's one of those things that you forget about until it's in your face - like Christmas caroling or landline telephones. But I promise you, if they suddenly ceased to exist, we would sorely miss them. Bi-annual clock changes need to stay. In many ways, the US is stuck in the past. Our questionable Electoral College started in 1787 as a way to balance power between larger and smaller states. After the days of the Founding Fathers, competition between states is seemingly nonexistent. Other cumbersome election procedures,

during World War I. It was thought that working more during daylight hours would decrease reliance on lightbulbs and candlelight, thus saving power. Today, more daylight during evening hours means lower crime, fewer car crashes, and lower pedestrian fatality rates. It also means that there's more time after school and working hours for outdoor recreation. Let it be clear - daylight savings time does not save any energy. Increased reliance on year-round air conditioning cancels out the slight amount of energy saved by the time change. Plus, while we gain light in the evening, the dark mornings mean that children have to wait for the bus or walk to school in the pitch black. That's dangerous, too. This August, the House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Bill, something heavily supported by Trump. This bill received major bipartisan support, and would make DST permanent. Now all it needs is Senate approval. If passed, states have the option to opt-out, but they would have to choose permanent standard time no switching clocks whatsoever. Isn't that scary to think about? Never changing your clocks again? Texas has already passed a trigger law, so as soon as Sunshine Protection becomes law, we will live in DST forever. (Selfishly) this makes me think of childhood: all of those dark winter nights or walking to elementary school while it

Daylight savings time conserves daylight. Photo courtesy of Lions Talk Science. like photo-ID requirements at the polls and President Trump's call to ban mail-in voting, make it feel like our entire electoral system is stuck in the past. After the passing of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, it was thought that the discriminatory voting policies of Jim Crowe-era America would disappear, but that is not the case. While certainly less severe, DST represents another way America refuses to get with the times. This archaic time-switching system began in America in 1918 after originating in Germany, marking an effort to save fuel

was light outside. I support keeping our time changes, not only for my own enjoyment, but also because DST only brings miniscule benefits. Why should we commit to it forever? When the time changes and we "fall back" this November, don't see the switch for what it is at face value (another useless task for your to-do list). Instead, think of it as a reminder of the American past and one of the few "harmless" ways the country hasn't grown. And appreciate it, because standard time may be gone before we know it.

test. I found this a little alarming, considering that America is a democracy. We have a say in our government, and I think that American citizens need to make a stronger effort to educate themselves of their rights and capabilities - and this starts in school. In an article from the Human Rights Mag-

DARIA MASSEY Co-Editor-in-Chief Historically, there has been an emphasis on the importance of having accessible education to produce educated voters. Present day, while civics is ingrained, to an extent, in the K-12 curriculum, not all states require a standalone civics or government course. I believe that taking a civics class is essential to becoming an informed and engaged citizen and that it should be a required high school course across all fifty states. In America, only a small number of states require a yearlong civics course to graduate. Most states require at least a semester long course, but depending on the state, it could only be enforced in public schools. With a stronger focus on core subjects like math and English, schools have increasingly spent less time focusing on civics to improve standardized test scores. While it is touched on within other courses, such as social studies, think that it deserves its own class considering how much it impacts our lives. According to a survey conducted by the Anneberg Public Policy Center in 2022, roughly 47% of adults could not name the three branches of government. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation reported from a survey that while 74% of adults firmly believed that they could explain the American government to a foreigner, nearly 58% were unable to pass a basic civics

Students learn the importance of civics classes. Courtesy of The New York Times. azine, author Shawn Healy writes that “civic[s] education, when done well, produces young people who are more likely to vote; work on community issues; become socially responsible; and feel confident speaking publicly and interacting with elected officials.” Evidence has proved that dysfunction and an overall lack of engagement from citizens with the government is linked to the sharp decline in civic education. Weaving in government studies into our education would promote engagement in elections. Many voters are simply unaware of the impact their vote has and how the electoral college works. Thankfully, if not required, many schools offer elective courses such as AP U.S. Government. Courses like this equip students with substantial knowledge about our governing body; however, I still believe that a required course yields even better results as more students would take it. If schools promote civic education, society will consist of more informed and engaged citizens to participate in elections and speak up about their political pursuits and wishes. Politics don’t have to be intimidating and confusing if taught correctly.

Students engage in hands-on civics class. Photo courtesy of The New York Times.

Sneaky services on streaming platforms lead to extra spending

MIMI WRIGHT Production Editor Streaming services used to feel like a bargain. You pay a few dollars a month and suddenly have access to more entertain-

ment than you could watch in a lifetime; no commercials interrupting the good part, no waiting for a channel to decide what you’re allowed to watch. It felt like getting away with something. Turns out, we weren’t the ones getting away with things. What started as a fix for cable’s problems has quietly become the same problem all over again, just split into pieces. Cable’s issue was that you paid for $120 worth of channels and only watch five of them. Streaming’s issue is that you now pay for five different services just to watch the five shows you wanted in the first place. Ted Lasso plays on Apple TV. Off Campus is Prime Video only. Stranger Things is locked behind Netflix. You’re not simplifying anything. You’re just paying a cover charge at five different sources instead of one. And the prices don’t sit still for long. Net-

flix used to charge $7.99 a month, a price that made cutting cable feel like a win. Now that same plan is approaching $20. Disney+ launched at $6.99 and felt like a steal, and now it’s doubled. Nobody raises the price all at once, because that would get noticed. Instead, it’s a dollar here, a dollar there, spread out over years until you’re paying double what you agreed to and can’t even remember when it happened. Stack up enough of these services and the math stops making sense. The average household ends up spending well over $300 a month on subscriptions combined, most of which nobody could actually account for if you asked them. Forgetting isn’t an accident, it’s the business model. Companies price things at $9.99 instead of $10 because your brain reads one digit and files it under “cheap,” even when it isn’t. They put you on auto

pay, so the charge disappears quietly instead of asking you every month whether it’s still worth it. They hook you with a free first month, banking on the fact that you’ll mean to cancel, but life happens and the charge shows up anyway. It’s called dynamic pricing: start low, raise it slowly, and count on people underestimating what they’re spending, overestimating how much they’ll use it, and forgetting it exists entirely. Meanwhile, most people can only watch one show at a time. You’re not bingewatching five services simultaneously; you’re paying for four you’re not touching while you finish the one you actually care about. Streaming promised to get rid of the stuff you don’t use. Instead, it convinced you to keep paying for it, just in smaller, sneakier sums.

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

Sports

Sports ∙ Page 7

Knights football prepares Girls volleyball aims for SPC for 2026 season kickoff SOPHIE HAYES Staff Writer

WILLIAM FITTS Staff Writer Knights football started preparing for the season early, beginning in June with daily workouts, led by Coach Jasmine Rhodes, and resuming in late July with 4–5-hour daily practices. Although their summer schedule was long and tiring, senior Liam Fanning outlined how it raised the team’s confidence going into the season, describing how the process has “built trust” and solidified how every player “will show up for one another.” Along with Fanning, the team captains include running back Brooks Allen, left tackle Dillard Jennings, defensive lineman Deacon Morgan, and linebacker Jack Maggi. Some players to watch are junior transfers Jake Brasington and Tramon Williams Jr., who look to make an immediate impact in the passing game. Additionally, the season will see fellow juniors Gus Harkins and Genesis Mouton step up into big roles in the linebacker department

and on the offensive line respectively. The Knights hosted the St. Thomas Eagles in the opening game of the season August 28 and are looking for a Friday win at Parish Episcopal September 4. Maggi emphasized how “speed and physicality” will continue to play a huge role in the Knights’ games going forward.

Junior, wide receiver and defensive back Reed Fowler tracks the ball. Photo courtesy of Knights Athletics Instagram.

Field hockey ready for next steps MIMI WRIGHT Production Editor Varsity field hockey is coming off a strong, hard-working preseason under Coach Fisher and Coach Piezec, and the team is confident it’s set for one of its best seasons yet. After scrimmages against Memorial and St. Agnes, the Knights opened their season against Duchesne, ready to show off the work they put in all summer. Mornings started at 6:45 with a mile and a half run and conditioning drills, wrapping up by 8:15, while evening practice from 4:15 to 6:15 shifted the focus to game play and scrimmaging, sharpening the team’s chemistry ahead of the season. “I think the team has stepped up this year,” senior Parker Allen said. “Every single one of us on the team is capable of doing all the drills and running.” That strength is a big reason for the team’s optimism heading into the fall. The roster features freshmen Sloane Goss and Ellie Marshall, along with sophomore transfer Tashi Kuo from St. John’s, bring-

ing fresh talent to an already experienced squad. Seniors, especially commits Parker Allen and Alex Jordan, have stepped into strong leadership roles this preseason. With a tougher, more focused preseason behind them, the Knights are locked in on their goals for the season and ready to compete at their highest level.

Sewanee commit Alex Jordan works the ball upfield during a game last season. Photo courtesy of Parker Allen.

Cross Country trains in Colorado BEAR THOMAS Staff Writer The Episcopal cross-country teams began preseason by escaping the Texas heat and traveling to Colorado for a week of training and team bonding. Athletes woke up at 5:45 in the morning to run two track workouts, several trail runs, and a long run. On multiple days, the team ran in the afternoon to loosen up and add mileage. Training at nearly 8,000 feet challenged the athletes to adjust to the altitude and difficult hills testing their stamina and endurance. In addition to running, the team participated in other activities. The runners attended the High-Country Stampede Rodeo, completed an aerial challenge at the Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA, and went white water rafting in the Colorado River. They also hiked in Rocky Mountain

National Park, attended an outdoor concert, and spent a day in Grand Lake. Several returning runners stood out during preseason training. For the boys, Grayson Luengas, Walker Vadan, and Sean Gathright clearly put in the mileage over the summer in addition to Nico Curtin. The girls are led by seniors Olivia Bell and Ashley Conoscenti along with junior Ceci Bass. The Knights head into a competitive and travel intensive schedule. The season begins with the varsity team in Waxahachie while the junior varsity team will race at Centennial Park, giving the runners their first chance to display the result of nine weeks of preseason training. The team also welcomes Coach Tokarski, a new teacher in Episcopal’s World Languages Department. Her expertise and knowledge will be a valuable asset for the team who looks to make a run at SPC this year.

Coming off a runner-up finish in last year’s SPC Championship, the 11-time SPC champion girls volleyball team is ready for another impressive season. The team has spent the summer training, working to be “UKNIGHTED” on and off the court and building team chemistry before the season begins. Head Coach Cydryce McMillian says one of their biggest goals is to “use the game of volleyball to become better versions of [themselves].” The biggest measure of success for this team is not only coming out of each game as stronger individuals but also being relational with one another and cultivating a sisterhood where “they can play this game but at the same time learn how to live their lives.” After losing three seniors from last year’s varsity, many of these girls are returning from their loss last year in the SPC Championship hungry to come back and win it all. Returning senior Abby Field says the most valuable thing she

Varsity girls volleyball won the Houston Open Invitational. Photo courtesy of Knights Athletics Instagram. learned from last season is the importance of teamwork. “Towards the end of the season, when people got tired and injured, we really relied on each other, and that’s when we bonded the most, during the hardest times.” With a strong returning team and four incredibly talented freshmen, girls volleyball is ready to give it all this season.

BenchWarming Banter with Clayton CLAYTON COX Sports Editor This summer, American sports have been very active. Going into the school year, it might be good to get an update on all the sports we love. In Major League Baseball, the end of the season is nearing in almost a month. In the AL East, the Tampa Bay Rays have a six-game cushion over the Yankees. A major reason for the Yankees’ summer being hindered is numerous injuries, including Aaron Judge’s rib. In the AL Central, the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins lead the division. And, to every Houstonian’s delight, the Astros are leading the AL West Division with the Texas Rangers trailing. While the Astros might not win the World Series, it is always great to watch them play. In the National League, the East is currently led by the Atlanta Braves and the Phillies. In the NL Central, the Milwaukee Brewers are currently holding the best record in the history of the National League, with the Dodgers steadfastly atop the NL West.

In other news, the NFL is now coming out of preseason. Fantasy football drafts have been busy over the past few weeks, with the peak drafting period coming to a close. Over the summer, multiple joint practices showed just how competitive some of these teams are going to be going into the season. We can only wait and see how things will develop and how players will perform across the next five months. No matter the outcome, the season will no doubt be incredible.

Image courtesy of InsideHook.com.

Boys volleyball establishes dynasty CHARLIE STASNEY Staff Writer The EHS Knights boys varsity volleyball, coming off a thrilling 2025 SPC championship with a win over Fort Worth Country Day, was back at practice over the summer. According to Head Coach Reuben Rocha. “The boys were excited to get back into the gym, and we have been working hard since the start of the season.” With hopes to earn back-to-back SPC titles, Coach Rocha added, “This group is one of the strongest teams EHS has had in a very long time. Our varsity team currently has eleven players who play club volleyball, which provides us with a tremendous amount of experience and talent.” The team’s goal for this year is nothing short of a championship. “I like to describe our goals as… understanding that every step, pass, set, hit, and movement has a purpose and brings us one step closer to our ultimate goal of repeating (as SPC Champions).” As the Knights start moving closer to

SPC play, they have a chance at history. A second-straight title would make them the first South Zone team in SPC history to accomplish the feat.

Ryan Maas is one of the returning varsity players for this year’s team. Photo by Laney Hill.

Knight Shift∙ Page 8

The Knight Times ∙ August 2026

EHS Speaks Out

“Where was the coolest place you went this summer?”

Prints Charming

Cartoon by Paige Pan. CLEO HOULE “York Beach Maine”

BRYAN GRACELY “Park City Utah”

ZOE WRIGHT “Italy”

LANDON DIAZ “Miami Beach”

MADDIE ACHILEFU “Denver”

COLE GROVE “Florida”

Photo of the Month

Freshmen build community at Knight School in a hands-on Lego activity in collaboration with Diversity in Action. Photo by Laney Hill.

Celebrity Sighting

MAGGIE JOHNSTON “Colorado Mountains”

COACH JAS “Costa Rica”

ALIM OLAJUWON “Aruba”

REV. CALLAHAN “Georgia Aquarium”

Could Principal Gold have found his way to EHS? Students may recognize Theatre Director Mr. Magalhaes from somewhere, but it’s not just from around campus. With the same signature beard and glasses as David Cross’s famously over-thetop principal from She’s the Man, Mr. Magalhaes could have stepped straight out of Illyria and into the EHS theatre. Whether he’s directing from backstage or commanding the room, he certainly brings some of that L.A. energy to campus. We may not be attending Illyria High, but for a moment, it definitely feels like Mr. Gold has found EHS. Photo courtesy of youtube.com and Charlie Stasney.