Free Press: Issue 4, Edition 25

The

Free Press

Art Off the Paper pg. 22

Wayne’s World pg. 14

Issue 4 May 25, 2022 Edition 25

IPS Bowling Fundraiser, 18 Prom, 6

FSJ STAFF PHOTO & MULTIMEDIA Baya Burgess Addison Driscoll Karmina Douglas Gracie Coleman Emma Hardesty Caroline Börk

REPORTERS

DESIGNERS

Isis Norris Ridwan Firman Lilly Wall Nate Ankenbauer Leilani Bidwell Brooke Burgess Maya Pavlyak

Hannah De Guzman Lola Cloud

EDITORS EDITORS IN CHIEF PHOTO & MULTIMEDIA Isabelle Prô Lady Ortega-Perez

SOCIAL MEDIA Maya Lee

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Allison Mayhew

Natasha Torkzaban

COPY EDITORS Alicia Narum Jake Hedges Nisa Khosh

DESIGN Evan White Madison Base

MANAGING EDITORS Laura Kinsch Shannon Dahl

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Table of Contents 04 06

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Air Bee N’ Bee

What happens at prom...

A Whole Latte Options Seniors Splash Around

Style Icon Mr. Graber

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Art Off the paper

Which Firebird are you? Senior Birds’ Word 14 Wayne’s 26 Opinion Wonderful World 28 Album and Book 16 Spring Sports Review Recap 30 Classified Ads 18 One Pin at a Time

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Air Bee N’ Bee Junior Elijah Sabatini constructs bee hotel Story by Isis Norris

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he school’s native tallgrass prairie recently introduced lodging options.

Constructed by junior Elijah Sabatini, the structure can house dozens of individuals and boasts an impressive variety of nearby dining options. The clientele: native solitary bees.

Sabatini constructed the bee hotel to qualify for an Eagle Scout badge. He researched and built the structure using donated materials and help from the Scout community.

The prairie, which was created with the help of science teacher Julie Schwarting, serves to restore Kansas’s native ecosystem.

Pollinators, such as solitary bees, play a major role in maintaining biodiversity.

“Since we’re cutting down a lot of trees, there’s less habitat for [native bees],” Schwarting said.

Bees play a virtual role in pollination. As bees move from flower to flower they transfer pollen, which allows for plants to produce seeds. However, a loss of habit has made it difficult for many bees to repopulate.

Using a special design, Sabatini’s bee hotel aims to provide a safe space for bees to lay their eggs.

“It consists of little individual tubes,” Schwarting said. “[Bees] lay an egg in the back of the tube and then they cut a little piece of a leaf and they shove it in there, they lay another egg

and then continue to make this tube full of eggs.”

Sabatini hopes the bee hotel will help increase the community’s native pollinator population. In addition to the benefits for bees, the bee hotel will be beneficial for the school garden as well. Senior co-president of garden club Kaylen Flacshbarth appreciates the passion that came from involved students.

“It was really nice to have students outside of the garden program take an interest in the permaculture space that we have,” Flacshbarth said. “Especially with something like attracting pollinators because that is something we tried to focus on when picking our plants for the native garden.”

Senior garden club co-president Elijah Ditto hopes for the bee hotel to help sustain the garden and for students to care for it.

“I hope the bee hotel is able to be established in a way where the bees will have easy access to the native plants in our garden, while also being able to co-exist,” Ditto said.

“I’d hate to see something like that be destroyed by people who don’t understand its benefits.”

As spring emerges into summer, Sabatini and the garden club hope the bee hotel will continue to aid in restoring Kansas’s native ecosystem, by increasing bee populations.

“I hope that the bee hotel is able to be established in a way where the bees will have easy access to the native plants in our garden, while also being able to co-exist.”

Elijah Ditto

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PHOTOS BY GRACIE COLMAN AND LADY ORTEGA-PEREZ

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PAGES BY LOLA CLOUD

What happens at Prom...

Tradition returns in-full story by Ridwan Firman

Juniors Gracie Mutuku, Julia Chapman and sophomore Ryan Viscomi dance alongside each other at prom. Despite prom being for seniors only, several seniors invited underclassmen as their plus one.

Prom Court candidates Allison Babbit, Ainsley Bandy and Patryk Hupert cheer on one another. The seniors were honored to be chosen to be on prom court. “My favorite part of being on prom court was being able to show everyone my cool dance moves,” Babbit said.

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PHOTOS BY LADY ORTEGA-PEREZ AND ISABELLA PRÔ

Enjoying the music, senior Ta’Mya Douglas dances. Prom was one of the last events for seniors to wrap up the year. “My favorite part about prom was definitely being around all of my senior friends one last time before graduation,” Douglas said.

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“We really just want to come back with a bang and show what prom should be”

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overseeing StuCo, she remained adamant about trying to host the best prom possible.

“I think this will be the most decorated and themed event we’ve done,” Barrat said.

Senior Andrew Reyes was one of many attendees who thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

“I loved getting together with all my friends and dancing my heart out,” Reyes said. “I also enjoyed taking pictures and having deep conversations about life with Graber.”

With the school year coming to an end, Barratt hoped seniors felt they received a proper send-off before departing to their next chapter in life.

“We want all seniors to feel like this is a gift and reward for them at the end of their high school career,” Barratt said.

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- StuCo member Samantha Whittlesey

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wo years ago, the Class of 2020 marked a particularly important day on their calendars: the date of their prom. Prom has been a staple of American high school culture for around 100 years now. It’s considered to be a night of fun, dancing, and hanging out with friends. Needless to say, it’s easy to see why so many were excited about it.

Then March 2020 came around.

The pandemic robbed seniors their chance to attend the annual dance. It also impacted the prom of 2021, with the event reduced to being held in the Commons and COVID-19 guidelines being implemented.

For these reasons, Student Council wanted to make sure this year’s prom came back stronger than ever.

“We really just want to come back with a bang and really show what prom should be,” senior StuCo secretary Samantha Whittlesey said.

StuCo prepared for two months under newly appointed sponsors, Alyssa Barratt and Debra Ziegler. Though this is Barratt’s first year

With her hands in the air, senior Baya Burgess celebrates senior prom with Miley Cyrus’s Party in the USA. Despite the pandemic’s influence on seniors for two years, some sense of normalcy was restored and celebrated by having a prom without COVID-19 restrictions. “One year ago I wasn’t sure if I was going to get a prom,” Burgess said. “I’m so glad we did because I had so much fun.”

PAGES BY HANNAH DE GUZMAN

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A Whole Latte Options EMMA HEFTY

Review Collected by Lilly Wall

Junior Emma Hefty has loved coffee for years and reviewed five popular shops located in Lawrence. Her go-to order is a vanilla latte from Scooters, but is open to exploring new types of coffee. Along with these reviews, you can find her reviewing an assortment of coffees on her snapchat private story.

J&S Coffee

J&S is a local coffee shop that opened in 2003. Their items include coffee, breakfast items, tea and more. In addition, they offer student gift discounts, gift cards and punch cards. Their cozy, warm atmosphere makes a good place to spend your afternoon studying.

Emma’s Review: “J&S is at the top of my list when it comes to local coffee; it has great character, a cozy atmosphere, thoughtful employees and fantastic coffee.”

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Alchemy

Alchemy Coffee & Bake House opened in 2013. The business has two locations: one on Mass which offers a full service cafe, whereas the second is a limited drive-thru located off 6th Street. They are known for their spectacular Pour Over and technique to roast their coffee beans in-house.

Emma’s Review: “I ordered the spicy vanilla latte, and it was not my favorite. I personally thought it had too much of a cinnamon taste and not enough vanilla.”

Uplift

Uplift Coffee opened in 2020. Their outside seating area that consists of shaded seating and a water feature makes it a must in the warm weather.

Their diverse menu consists of coffee, tea, food and more.

Emma’s Review:

REVIEW

“I can’t say I’ve ever been disappointed by the quality of their coffee; it’s pretty top tier.”

REVIEW

Emma’s Review:

Emma’s Review:

REVIEW

Java Break opened in 1994, offering a variety of house-made items. They are known for their wall anyone can draw on along with the variety of seating arrangements provided, which consists of both outdoor and indoor seating.

La Prima Tazza opened in 1990. They sell an assortment of coffee and tea at their location on Mass. While it isn’t the largest coffee shop in Lawrence, this is a great place to grab coffee with a friend.

REVIEW

Java Break

Story by Alicia Narum

La Prima Tazza

REVIEW

“Uplift is definitely one of those places that I’d try going out of your comfort zone at, to take advantage of all the assorted options.”

“I’m here to tell you [Java Break] is overrated. The coffee is way too expensive, and honestly, it’s not that good.”

PAGES BY EVAN WHITE

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Seniors Splash Around

As the year comes to an end, seniors find fun to finish out the year

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Story by Jake Hedges

s the end of the year approaches and seniors are itching to see the year finish, participating seniors throw in some entertainment.

With an all out senior water gun war, called water warriors, they find some fun ways to finish the year.

In water warriors, each participant is assigned a target and has a week to get them “out” by spraying them with water and to get a picture with their target. As the game goes on, the number of students playing goes down, making it much more competitive. To enter there was a five dollar fee for each player, all of that money was pooled in to create a $400 cash prize.

This year’s organizer was junior Will Young.

Leadership was handed off to Young by a Class of 2021 senior last year.

Water Warriors is an annual event for some seniors and similar contests occur in other schools. Administrators here, though, make it clear Water Warriors is not a school sponsored event and cannot be played on school property. This wasn’t Young’s first time

organizing an event like this, Young hosted a district-wide nerf gun war first semester.

“The Nerf War was the first major event I hosted with a lot of people, but I’ve done smaller ones in the past,” Young said. “I really liked how it kind of brings everyone together.”

Beneath the surface of the game, there’s more than just water. To be successful in the game, it requires working together and collaborating with people who don’t always find themselves around each other “I really liked how it kind of brings everyone together,” Young said. “It allows all of the seniors to get closer and figure out more about each other.”

From hearing about Water Warriors from the past, seniors were excited to get involved.

“I know the seniors have done it for all the years past and it’s something that I looked forward to, so I was really excited to be able to actually participate in this year,” senior Sammy Whittlesey said.

As Water Warriors came to an end, senior Evan Wilson took home the prize. “[I’m] happy to have the money and slightly relieved that it’s over,” Wilson said.

“It allows all of the seniors to get closer and figure out more about each other.” junior Will Young

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NEWS NEWS NEWS NEWS NEWS

PAGES BY MADISON BASE

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Which Firebird Are You? Created By: Lilly Wall

Take this short quiz to find out which Firebird you are feeling today…

It’s simply one of those days: In group projects, I tend to be…

A. The leader of the pack B. Along for the ride C. Getting the job done D. Working alone

What did you eat for breakfast?

A. Eggs, toast and bacon B. What’s breakfast?

C. A celsius... or two.

D. Scone

Where do your friends find you during ILT? A. The library B. At home C. In the Commons with friends D. Getting coffee

Pick an after school activity: A. Heading to the library B. Napping in bed C. Sports practice D. Going for a walk

What’s your ideal Friday night?

A. Getting homework done so I can enjoy the weekend B. Watching a movie at home C. In the student section at the sports game. “sko birds!”

D. Going on a drive while listening to music

What app overrules your screen time?

A. Messages B. Spotify C. TikTok D. Pinterest

How do you relieve stress?

A. Listen to music B. Taking a bath C. Hanging out with friends D. Journaling

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PHOTOS BY LADY ORTEGA-PEREZ

If you are feeling...

QUIZ

PAGES BY LOLA CLOUD

QUIZ

You are most likely energetic, outgoing, and fun to be around. Your student section theme outfits are always on point and you never miss a game, no matter the weather. You know how to have a good time. We need more people like you in the world!

You are creative and imaginative. You may have high hopes of leaving the midwest one day. KU may be your favorite part about living in Kansas, and you know where you want to go in the future. There is a huge adventure waiting for you with lifelong memories, watch out!

QUIZ

Mostly Ds: Dreamy

Mostly Cs: Spirited

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You are a driven and dedicated person, who also may coincidentally be the first child. You are successful in school and have priorities set in place. Whatever your goal is, embrace it and it will be yours. You have your eyes on the prize and success is in sight, keep it up!

It’s simply one of those days: greeting Mr. Graber through the doors at 8:05 AM as you walk to class, just to stare at the clock all day waiting for it to end. You may have caught a case of senioritis, but you’ve made it this far, stick it through. Be on the lookout for future events, something good is coming your way!

QUIZ

Mostly As: Motivated

Mostly Bs: Weary

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Wayne’s Wonderful World Firebirds’ unofficial staff member story by Alicia Narum and Natasha Torkzaban

“One thing that seems to bring everybody together is Wayne” - teacher Laura Woolfolk

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PHOTOS BY EMMA HARDESTY

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PAGES BY HANNAH DE GUZMAN

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oining students and staff in the building, Wayne the golden labrador retriever has become a favorite within the school community. Positively impacting the school, Wayne spends his days uplifting students and staff throughout the building.

Whether it’s going for a walk to destress a student or awarding someone who’s had a ‘ruff’ day, Wayne is there to lend a helping paw.

Wayne’s owner, security guard Demetrius [Dee] Kemp, first started bringing him to school when Wayne was two months old. After seeing how therapy dogs can positively impact students, Kemp believed Wayne’s uplifting presence could be beneficial. “[Students] would relax and calm down,” Kemp siad. “They were easier to manage and work with if there was a dog around.”

Some teachers agree Wayne has a positive impact on the schoo.

“One thing that seems to bring everybody together is Wayne,” English teacher Laura Woolfolk said. “Everybody loves Wayne.”

Students also have shown an interest in the hairiest staff member, reiterating the influence that he has on the school community.

“Wayne just brings a happy environment to everybody whenever he’s around,” senior

Calvin Urish said. “He brings a lot of joy to people whenever you see him.”

In addition to the many bonds created, Wayne also helps bring different groups of people together. Even if they have differences, student share enthusiasm for Wayne.

“There’s so many different personalities in any given high school,” Woolfolk said. “I just love it that they’re all reaching down for a little drive-by petting.”

With the recent problems of increased absences and students skipping class, Wayne has also helped encourage students to attend their classes.

“I told them, you can’t pet Wayne, you can’t play with Wayne and you can’t walk him, if you’re not going to class,” Kemp said.

After seeing how Wayne benefits students, staff members value the support he provides the school. Some teachers have noticed an increase in attendance and have even called to thank Kemp for his help.

Wayne is currently in the process of getting certified as a working service dog. As he is going through training, he has picked up tricks, like playing fetch and learning signals. Students look forward to seeing him become a pillar in the community.

“I mean, he’s a dog,” Urish said. “He’s cute, and he’s cuddly everything you want out of a dog.”

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Spring

“Some personal goals for me are that I want to hit 160-170 feet in javelin this year, as a team we want to win our regional meet.

As an individual I’ve been top five every meet and as a team we’ve also been doing really good.”

- senior Brian Lane

Field

Bo y

sG

“A team goal is to win regionals. And to all qualify as a team on the second day of State. A personal goal is to break 90. And to make the state team. We plan to practice the areas that are not our strengths. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses so just practice what we need to improve on.”

- senior Nedim Pekusic

olf

Soccer s l r “Right Gi

now we’re a little over halfway through our season. We’ve had a few more losses than I expected but I’m still proud of how hard we have been working.

Our defense has been doing an amazing job defending our goal, but we’ve been struggling to connect in our offensive attack. Overall,...

We’re a very strong, hardworking team and we will continue to push ourselves to do better each game.”

- senior Aspen Wilson “We hope to win 2 relays and a few individual events. We have been preparing for the end of the season by working hard and having positive mindsets. The season has gone really good so far. I’ve won a few individual events as well as relays.”

- junior Halle McCullough

G ir

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ls Swi m

& Dive

PHOTOS BY ADDIE DRISCOLL, GRACIE COLEMAN, LADY ORTEGA-PEREZ, & ISABELLE PRO QUOTES COLLECTED BY NATE ANKENBAUR

- senior Jasmine Brixius

SPORTS

“I had been playing beforehand and I knew people that were going to be playing Free State tennis as well as alumni who I played with and they said it was fun and it would be good for my game. So I decided to join up. My goal for this season is to get to State and place top five this year as well as best last year’s performance.”

- junior George Thornton

SPORTS

Boys Tennis

k

all“Our b e as

main goals are to miniB mize the mistakes and win games

SPORTS

Tr

SPORTS

- senior Logan Schwaab

SPORTS

“My goals are to get a sub 11 second 100m race and get 13 ft in pole vault. The team’s goals are to get runners to State, always get better as a program, have a positive team atmosphere and be supportive of each other.”

ac

Sports

Sof tba ll

“As a player I want to be a leader on and off the field and do what is best for my team.

As a team we are focusing on playing as a family and acknowledging the past but creating our own legacy. We all get along really well. When we are practicing we become competitive with one another. But when it’s game time we become a family and everyone is all in for the team.”

which will hopefully lead us to winning our regional and going far in State. As an individual it’s gone really well, I’ve played very consistently so far. And even better as a team. We continue to win and progress as a team.”

- senior Will Dawson

PAGES BY MADISON BASE

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One Pin at a Time IPS hosts bowling fundraiser for Olive Mitchell story by Leilani Bidwell

Junior Claire Schmidt smiles as she holds a basket full of prizes. During lunch raffle tickets were sold for prizes, days before leading up to the fundraiser.

F

or the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Interpersonal Skills was able to host a fundraising event. Held at Royal Crest Lanes, the bowling fundraiser aimed to raise money to support social studies teacher Phillip Mitchell’s family battle with cancer.

IPS class helps students focus on interaction and communication skills through community outreach and building relationships within the class.

“The main thing we teach and focus on is building genuine friendships and using those friendships to do good, to help others, to create a better community,” IPS teacher Patrick Dipman said.

Olive Mitchell, 10 year old daughter of Mitchell, was diagnosed with cancer in December 2021. In hopes to support the family,

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PHOTOS BY MAYA PAVLYAK

the IPS class wabted to donate the proceeds of their bowling fundraiser through these hard times for the Mitchell family.

The idea for the bowling fundraiser was first suggested to IPS by security guard Demetrius “Dee” Kemp. Kemp, who has connections with the local bowling alley, took the initiative to plan the event.

“I know that [the fundraiser] was always a good way of getting your community ... to come,” Kemp said. “That way they can have some kind of fun, while doing something that’s good.”

Dipman reiterated Kemp’s message and felt it was important to financially support the Mitchells.

“It always feels better to give to others,” Dipman said. “It creates an experience that’s going to be beneficial because we’re also

CAPTIONS BY KARMINA DOUGLAS

Alumni Daniel Siripali walks back after rolling his bowling ball.

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A fundraiser organized by IPS brought together staff, parents, students and alumni to support social studies teacher Phillip Mitchell’s family. In December 2021, Mitchell’ daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. The idea of a bowling fundraiser was first suggested to the IPS program by security guard Demetrius Kemp. (right)

helping somebody here within this building.”

The goal for the proceeds is to not only support the Mitchells financially, but to show how much their family means to the Lawrence and Free State communities.

“It’d be good to boost our little girl’s [Olive’s] morale,” Kemp said. “Cheering her up a little bit to see people really care about her and her family.”

The Mitchells have decided whatever money isn’t used will be paid forward to BabyJay’s Legacy

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Junior Emma Hefty prepares to approach the lane while holding her bowling ball. IPS and the Mitchell family received a lot of support from the community. (Top right)

of Hope, a local organization dedicated to helping families with fighting adolescent cancer.

In addition to the positive support, the Mitchell family also received exciting news after Olive’s bone marrow transplant in February. As of April 1, she has been cancerfree, with no evidence of leukemia or myelodysplasia.

“There is more to go and more landmarks to hit, but for now we are celebrating and rejoicing in this news,” Mitchell said.

PAGES BY HANNAH DE GUZMAN

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STYLE ICON Myron Graber

Principal Myron Graber has been rocking outfits since he first joined Free State back in 2015. Here’s a peek into some of his best looks, according to the @styleiconmyrongraber Instagram account.

#5 #4 #3 20

“Number five is Graber in this multi-pattern getup, cheering on the Firebirds…with his #maskon. A little pattern clashing can be overwhelming at first, but he makes up for it with his impeccable school spirit.”

“Number four has to be ‘Pie Face Graber.’ From the trash bag dress, to the whipped cream accessory: what more could you ask for? A true example of a good sport rocking a pie like no one else could.”

“Number three is Graber in this eye-catching monochrome look, giving a very professional and sleek take on an all blue ensemble. He is showing a classic Graber silhouette, and directing students like no other.”

PHOTOS COLLECTED BY ALICIA NARUM

HOW TO:

#2

RECREATE GRABER’S SIGNATURE LOOK

STYLE

“Number two is a true statement piece. The Christmas Formal Tux is a classic and never a tacky fit.

Conducting the formal Polar Express can only be done in the loudest of prints.”

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PAGES BY EVAN WHITE

STYLE

“Number one is obviously this ‘Secret Agent Graber’ look.

He is looking crisp in a white button down, and equipped for a long day of fighting crime with the shades.”

STYLE

#1

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Art Off the Paper

Students perfect their craft at unconventional art forms story by Brooke Burgess

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i inding unique ways to express themselves, many students and staff became involved in unconventional art media. Throughout their learning process, they have discovered the importance of starting new hobbies.

The beginning of senior Sophie Johnston’s artistic journey was in fourth grade, when her aunt taught her how to sew. Since then, Johnston has learned how to knit and crochet.

“I’m always teaching myself how to do new things,” Johnston said.

For Johnston, her knitting and crocheting are still both in the learning stage. But as her skills develop, she continues to grow.

“From an outsider’s perspective, it really seems like I know what I’m doing, when in reality, I don’t,” Johnston said. “I’m learning along the way.”

Senior Willoughby Lam has been doing photography for a while, but just recently started focusing on it more seriously, by working on her technique and editing.

“I love being in control of tones and depth,” Lam said. “I like to make things stand out in different ways.”

Recalling her beginnings in photography, Lam encourages others to get involved in the art.

“There’s always room to get better, and every single day you can try new things and experiment,” Lam said. “Photography is something you can do whenever and wherever you want!”

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A multi-disciplinary artist, Lam also draws, paints, makes jewelry and does graphic design.

Ceramics and photography teacher Bryan Lloyd also has many hobbies; his character is defined by the artistic projects he picks up. While Lloyd primarily does ceramics, he has picked up other art styles. Lloyd has spent time working on many different projects, like building a wood table, making pottery and many more.

“Having creative hobbies almost defines me as a person,” Lloyd said. “I have a drive to make things.”

The appeal of starting new things is the challenge of it according to Lloyd. He encourages anyone with creative inspiration to just do, because that is the best way to learn.

“Everybody starts somewhere,” Lloyd said.

“I think a lot of creatives started doodling in notebooks at school, and from those little doodles came inspiration and appreciation for even small creations.”

Johnston has similar thoughts regarding the creative process. For her, picking out what yarn to use and what pattern to create gives her the creative liberty to make something she loves.

“I’ve really learned how to express myself, and my personality and my style through crochet and knitting.”

Overall, the best advice these artists have to those seeking a new hobby is to just do.

“Learning by doing is so important,” Lloyd said. “Make mistakes. Have fun.”

PHOTOS BY EMMA HARDESTY, ADDIE DRISCOLL AND ISABELLE PRÔ

ART ART ART ART ART

PAGES BY LOLA CLOUD

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D R O R S D I W ’ B Q:

Which teacher has impacted you the most and why?

ire Peltier a l C

Adam Smith, English “He helped me to understand my ADD and how to work with it in class and stay on top of my work.”

Gabe Dalton, Pre-Med

Ella Booth

“[Gabe] Dalton gives each of his students the motivation to dive deeper into their favorite subjects. He brings plenty of resources to students, which allow them to strive for their goals.”

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PHOTOS BY GRACIE COLEMAN

QUOTES COLLECTED BY MAYA PAVLYAK

Humme s y l Ha

Joshua East, choir

“He came into this year not knowing any of us, but ever since we first met him, he’s had a great attitude and made choir very enjoyable and fun.”

“KT has impacted me the most throughout the last four years. Instead of just being a teacher, he became a role model that constantly questions my predispositions about the world.”

BIRDS WORD

Kelly Thompson, debate

BIRDS WORD

a Joseph r z E

BIRDS WORD BIRDS WORD

Wendy Haas, science “[Wendy Haas] kept online school fun and engaging. She showed she cared for us and our well-being.”

PAGES BY MADISON BASE

BIRDS WORD

MK Shultz

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opinion

Next Year’s Schedule Why “Rolling 7” does not work for Free State Opinion by Allison Mayhew

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fter a school year of experimenting with the Flex Mod schedule, there are many changes that could be made. Two options were presented to staff and students for next year’s schedule, Flex Mod 2.0 and the Rolling Seven. On May 5, Principal Myron Graber announced Rolling Seven will be next year’s schedule.

The Flex Mod 2.0 option followed a similar model to this year’s schedule. Widely criticized “white” mods and “overlaps” were removed. Additionally, Wednesday’s dismissal was at 2:12 p.m.

The Rolling Seven option has six hour-long classes a day with only 40 minutes of independent learning time per day. Wednesday release time would be at 1:45 p.m.

Flex Mod 2.0 was the better option for students, and provided Flexibility, not endless structure.

With only one year of trial, faculty should have opted for tweaking the current Flex Mod model rather than give up on the “balance” goal of redesign.

At the start of the Redesign process students and teachers identified areas needing improvement for both groups: balance, relevance and habits of success. Having seven classes a day to prepare was seen as an issue of balance.

Yet, with the Rolling Seven schedule, there will be six hourlong classes and only 40 minutes of

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ILT daily. A 40-minute break is not the Flex 2.0 schedule had been choa sufficient amount of time to get sen, teachers and students would homework done for six classes, or have still had access to this mucheven take a break, which is part of needed time to provide a variety of the balance students asked for. relevant educational experiences With the amount of homework for students. students are assigned in seven Initially, when starting the classes, there is a need for time in redesign program, there was an our schedule. Even idea that the “Flex 2.0 was the better if students are not schedule would strictly working on option for students... it take three years homework, they is a waste of effort to to fully implement are still using their and would involve abandon the changes ILT as they need to, some trial and for breaks and to the Flex Mod schedule error. With only see their friends, one year spent, it offered so quickly.” etc. is a waste of effort Next year, students are required to abandon the changes the Flex to report to a specific room for Mod schedule offered so quickly. attendance, show they’ve signed Even with the one year trial, there up in Adaptive Scheduler and only is still an amount of unprecedented then can they to go to a different issues considering it was the first room where they will experience time all students were back in the another round of attendance-takbuilding since before the COVID-19 ing. If you consider passing peripandemic. ods, there is no way students can A true Flex Mod schedule was use this small block of time for its only utilized for one year. Adapintended purpose. Flex Mod 2.0 tations should have been made would provide a whole class secrather than abandoning the idea tion instead of only 40 minutes. of Flexibility for the structure of One main perk of the Flex Mod the Rolling Seven schedule. The schedule has been that B classes Flex Mod 2.0 schedule continued were able to have longer class to address changes students asked periods. This has been important for and were promised. Selecting for classes with labs like science the Rolling Seven option limits classes and culinary. Teachers also educational opportunities that utilized the adaptation to eliminate cater to the needs redesign was long daily set-ups and clean-ups supposed to address: balance, that cutting into their class time. If relevance and habits of success.

proposed Flex mod 2.0 schedule mod 1 mod 2 mod 3

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Album Review

O B4 I GO T-MODO Review by Isis Norris

ver spring break, senior Trevor Sidabutar released the fourth album, “B4 I GO,” under his moniker T-MODO. The project is a major improvement compared to his past discography. At its best, it is a standard coming of age album. Many songs deal with the complexities of growing up and coping with the changes brought on by high school graduation. “I’m moving far away soon, won’t ever truly leave you,” Sidabutar sings on “NO MORE HIDING.” Listeners will note the polished delivery and varied tracklist when compared to his previous work. However, the album is a repetitive impression of the top rappers of the last decade.

The first half of the tracklist blends into one long declaration of an inferiority complex, with Sidabu-

tar fighting against unnamed and vague haters. “You [sic] a leech and you never will reach anything close to my ceiling… Call me King MODO because I’m back with my crown,” Sidabutar declares on the opening song “KINGDOM.” The second half of “B4 I GO” is a sharp diversion into acoustic tracks.

Sidabutar’s voice is distorted as he ruminates over a failed relationship in “DON’T FALL IN LOVE.” Competing vocals and a droning guitar detract from the song’s emotional lyrics. Overall, the production shows a lack of maturity: every song is ostentatious and the lyrics are overshadowed by manufactured triplet beats and never ending harmonies. While the album shows promising talent, the lack of originality ultimately makes “B4 I GO” unremarkable.

MK’s Book Corner

I

am notorious for borrowing books and then forgetting about them. So, when our very own design editor Hannah De Guzman walked up to me in the library several weeks ago and handed me this book, I was sure history would repeat itself.

As soon as I started this book, I knew I could never forget it.

House on the Cerulean Sea is the story of Linus, a lonely, nondescript 40-year old man working for a governmental agency that manages magical children. He is suddenly given a special assignment: report on a high-profile magical orphanage located on an island in, you guessed it, a cerulean sea.

A low-stress but highly engaging mystery, House is a lovely amalgamation of captivating fantasy books I loved as a kid and the more candid adult books I’m transitioning into.

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The magical elements are wonderfully woven into a realistic world—making it all feel tangible and grounded. The joy of fantasy with as much required “suspense of disbelief”.

This magical realism creates an opportunity to discuss social issues—and in a uniquely layed manner. It’s a good mix of “heavy handed” messages (for lack of a better phrase) and more subtle, complex, thought-provoking themes. It’s accessible for middle school- to adult-level readers.

Maybe I’m being dramatic, but this book made me believe in love again. The whole thing feels like a hug: comforting, validating, empowering. It makes you grieve the tragedies of the past yet hope and believe in a better future. An empathetic and real take, equally an escape from our world and a warm welcome back into it.

PHOTO BY ISABELLA PRÔ

The House in the Cerulean Sea

by T.J. Klune CW: mentions of past child abuse, xenophobia

Rating: 5/5 stars PAGE BY HANNAH DE GUZMAN

You Made It...

Classified Ads Annual Classified “Good-bye” Ads started a decade ago for seniors-only. The Free Press began offering classified ads to parents and loved ones of any Firebird at the end of the 2021 school year.

Alex Godinez

Alex, You amaze and inspire us every day, with your fortitude and determination. We are so proud of you, and feel very blessed to have you as our son.

Love - Mom and Dad

Ben Shryock

Sarah Akagi

Sarah, We are so happy for you and proud of you. You are a beautiful and wonderful person and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.

We love you so much!!

Mom and Dad

Benner, Congratulations!

Donovan Hill We are so proud of you and excited for you to YOU DID IT, DONOVAN! take the next steps in your journey. We will be Your mom and dad are so proud of you! cheering you on the whole way.

Love, Love You! Mom, Dad and Conrad Hill Mom & Mer and the whole fam

Molly Roecker

Makinsey Neuenswander

Molly - We are so incredibly proud of you! You have amazed us with your hard work, tenacity, strength, kindness and loyalty to your friends.

We love you so much and can’t wait to see what you do next!

Kinsey- You brighten our days with your smile and great sense of humor! We are very proud of you and your accomplishments this year. We are excited to see what you’re going to do your next three years as a Firebird.

Cool, cool, cool!

Love- Mom, Dad and Andrew

Congratulations, Hannah!

It has been an incredible four years. You’ve done well! We are so proud of you and what you’ve accomplished. Make the most of your college experience, enjoy, and face challenges with equanimity. God bless you on all your endeavors.

We love you.

Always, Dad, Mom and Matt

Congratulations and Happy Graduation! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see where the road takes you! Love Always, Mom, Dad and Sis Sylvia Waechter Congrats, on finishing your senior year at FSHS with flying colors! What a ride!

Love, mom/dad/everett

Hannah De Guzman

Emma Day

Rorie Sturgeon

Tiger Sievers

Hi Tiger!

Emma DayYou swim, you laugh You’re kind, IT WAS ME. I MOVED THE VAN. There, I said you’re smart We admire your strength And your it. I love you! caring heart Maya Dee Love, Again and again you’ve proven that you can do Mom, Dad and Maddie anything you set out to do. You’ve overcome Isis Norris obstacles and come out on top, and I’m Isis, We are all so proud of the person you’ve proud of how hard you have worked for your grown into – Kind, intelligent, and beautiful! achievements. I’m the luckiest mama to have Can’t wait to see where the next adventure you as my smart and kind daughter! leads you. Keep your mind open to the Love, mom Universe!

Love, T.H.E. Norris

Jack Keathley-Helms

Our darling Jack, you are the light of our lives. Your foundation is laid. You have all the right stuff - a kind heart, strong character and competitive spirit. Keep being the best version of you. Do good. Be good. Shoot for the moon.

Even if you miss, you’ll still be our STAR! We love you!

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CLUES: DOWN: 1. Class of 2024 2. Free State color 6. Football stadium 7. Style icon 8. No longer a place of learning 12. Starts next week 13. Graber’s successor 14. Another word for actor 16. Class of 2022 17. Someone who plays sports 21. Class of 2023 25. Major stressor for most students

CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 3. Musical showcase 4. Spring dance 5. Marshall and Rupp, National _______ Champions 9. Not Lawrence High but...

10. We rely on Starbucks for _______ 11. Senior competition 15. “We hail the Lawrence Free State...”

18. Dee’s dog 19. Voting for Student Council 20. Mascot 22. End of high school ceremony 23. Free State spirit chant 24. Free time 26. Free State Schedule 27. Class of 2025 28. Choir, Orchestra and Band

CROSSWORD ANSWERS: 1. Sophomore 2. Green 3. Encore 4. Prom 5. Debate 6. The Cage 7. Graber 8. Learning Stairs 9. Free State 10. Coffee 11. Water Warriors 12. Summer Break 13. McAnarney 14. Thespian 15. Alma Mater 16. Senior 17. Athlete 18. Wayne 19. Elections 20. Firebird 21. Junior 22. Graduation 23. Sko Birds 24. ILT 25. Finals 26. Flex Mod 27. Freshman 28. Music

PAGES BY EVAN WHITE

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