Feb. 12, 2024
Rogers Heritage High School
Volume I, Issue III
Expanded Career Center to Offer Medical Lab Program
Portal
A construction worker operates a lift in the new Career Center expansion. This will be one of the automotive workshops.
Portal, Hernandez, & Gray
Talon Staff
Heritage’s most recent addition to their academic success and student career planning is almost complete. Rogers School District added a new building at HHS to focus on learning in Career and Technical Educaiton. This allows students to receive hands-on learning experiences and expand their understanding in their desired field.
Construction is expected to be completed by early April. New classes in this building will be open for students starting in the fall semester of 2024 and include an expanded slate of medical-related courses. “The medical program, whether that be general med or sports med, is a growing industry,” said Jacob Morris, CTE department head. With this new expansion, students are now able to receive official certifications that will qualify them to work in their chosen field. This al-
lows them a head start in the medical industry while still in high school. Anyone can join Foundations of Healthcare starting freshman year. No prerequisites are required. Once a student completes that class, based on what they want to pursue, they will be able to take other medical classes in the new building. “We are going to continue offering the same certification paths that we have been offering,” Morris said. Having this new space for students to work on these certifica-
tions will be extremely beneficial. Although haven’t been formalized, students were told in the Feb. 9 advisory lesson that the Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) program will be available starting next fall. Students do not have to pay to take these classes in high school, but they would if they were taking them after graduation. There are currently several programs offered, but this is another great addition to set up students for success.
Snow Days Lead to Longer School Days Without AMI
Pullen
Talon Staff The Rogers School Board approved the 2024 school calendar, which extends the school day, in order to accommodate five snow days during their January board meeting. Until last year, AMI, or Alternative Method of Instruction, was a tool provided so school could remain in session no matter the weather or other circumstances. Having this option available, students were able to remain on track with lessons even though the physical school wasn’t open. However, this feature is no longer permitted for schools in the state of Arkansas since the passing of the LEARNS ACT in spring of 2023. The law states that a public school must be open for in-person
instruction for at least 178 days or 1,068 hours. Therefore without AMI days, if weather conditions prevent school operation, those days have to be compensated before students are released for summer vacation. Students being held past the planned end of school date not only upsets students, but also parents and staff. With that being said, the Rogers School District proposed an alternative calendar for the school year of 2024-2025. During the fall, teachers and staff were able to vote on the possible calendar alterations. Majority of teachers voted in favor. As a result, the alternative calendar was approved on January 23. “The Board approved next year’s school calendar, which includes an increase in [the time spent in school per day] and five
New StuCo Officers p. 3
Graphic from @HeritageWarEagles on Instagram
During the snow days, families recieved communication from the district via call, text and email, but Heritage also posted to their social media accounts.
snow days in case of inclement The new alternative calendar weather. We’re also applying for a comes with 1,098 total class hours waiver to start on August 14, three and 192 total contract days throughdays earlier than state law allows,” said Dr. Jeff Perry, the superintendent, in an email. Snow Days continued on p. 3
Students Budget for Valentine’s Track Readies for Outdoor Season p. 5
p. 7
“Daily attendance is so important for students’ success.” - Principal Chip Greenwell in “Attendance Is Incentivized” p. 3
2
NEWS
Feb. 12, 2024
THE TALON
Castanon
Students write letters for Sending Sunshine after school on Tuesday, Jan. 30. This club allows students to gain community service hours that are needed for graduation.
Students Collect Their Community Service Castanon
Talon Staff Every Tuesday after school in C103, Charlee Davis (12) hosts Sending Sunshine community service club to write letters to lonely communities to spread joy and love and let them know that they are not alone. Additionally, it gives Heritage students a chance to gain community service hours to advance toward their 75-hour requirement. “I think 75 hours being mandatory has caused a little confusion, but now that we’ve communicated
the intent of the law and the expectation of the law, it is going to have a great impact on all of our students and our communities,” said Karen Highfill, teacher on special assignment. Since Arkansas has passed the LEARNS Act, having 75 hours of community service has been required in order to graduate. Sending Sunshine is a great way to not only get your community service hours, but to spread positivity as well. Sending Sunshine writes to various communities who benefit from pen pals, such as the special needs
and the elderly community. They are hoping to expand to more communities and groups in the coming months and years. “I think they have realized that community service doesn’t have to be a chore. We listen to music, we chit chat, we draw, so it’s not something that people dread doing, they actually enjoy it,” Davis said. Not only can you get community service hours from joining the club, it helps spread positivity to communities that need it. It’s a great way to meet new people and make fun memories.
Editorial Staff Howard, EIC Barstow Manes Fraire Pullen Gray Salazar Ledbetter Tallmadge
Reporters Amaro Brace Castanon Coleman Do Fitzpatrick Gaona Hernandez Isbell Jones Jordan Kiahd Leon Lopez Macquinn
Mason Mendez Moomtin Moore Morales Mulcare Newberry Orellana Perez Portal Salgado Sanchez Sandbergen Sellers Sparling
Kristen Coppola, Adviser Chip Greenwell, Principal
Corrections
The Talon strives for accuracy in its reporting and will correct all matters of fact. As The Talon is a limited print publication, all corrections will be made on the website promptly and prominently. If you believe the paper has printed an error, please send an email to hhsjour@rpsar.net.
Orellana
Opinion
Students Begin ‘24-25 Class Registration
The columnists’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff, Rogers Heritage High School or Rogers Public Schools.
Talon Staff
Memberships
Esteban Morales (9) and Nataly Villatoro (9) discuss class registrations during passing periods on Tuesday, Jan. 30.
Leon, Orellana
Rogers Heritage High School students will have class registrations in February to be able to enroll for classes next school year. Students were each given a paper with different colors according to their grade with a variety of classes that they can choose from. “It’s fun, and it’s kind of difficult because there’s so many things and you can’t choose stuff that you want,” said Brian Vasquez (9) about having to narrow down his choices between all
of the options. “I think [the classes available] are good enough because they have a lot of options.” Students at HHS enjoy registering for classes because they find enjoyment in being able to select classes they want and will be useful for them in the future and help them toward graduation. The classes offered are decent according to students because there is a large amount of classes to pick from. Some find it difficult to choose the classes they want because of the credit requirements and they have to choose specific classes that are needed in order to graduate before they can choose their specific elective classes.
Each student has a different thought process while registering for classes. Many take it seriously and choose classes that benefit them and will be useful to them long after high school. “I get to choose classes that benefit me and to be very serious,” said Seza Samson (11), “I think the offers are good enough because there are some classes that are for college and prepare you for college.” Juniors have already registered for their senior year. Sophomores will register February 1416, and freshmen will be able to register for their sophomore year February 21-23.
The Talon is an institutional member of the Arkansas Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.
Student Press
The Talon was created by students for students. It is a public forum for student expression, and all students are welcome to submit content, questions or letters for consideration to hhsjour@rpsar.net. The Talon is governed by the Arkansas Student Publications Act of 1995 (A.C.A. § 6-18).
THE TALON
Feb. 12, 2024
3
New StuCo Elected Officers Have Aspirations for HHS Amaro, Moore Talon Staff
During election week, Heritage students voted for our student council members who ran for President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Our officers are Joseline Guaderrama (11) as President, Armando Espinal (11) as Vice President, Molly Benish (10) as Secretary, and Alice Wise (10) as Treasurer. StuCo President wants to bring more diversity and inclusion in the school. “I do have some goals to bring more of the student body together,” said Guaderrama. StuCo Vice President plans to get students more involved in activities after school. “Well hopefully to make everything more active. Like a lot of people don’t go to the dances and it would be better to see more people there.” said Espinal.
Our officers plan to have more diversity at Heritage, bring the student body closer, have more students attend dances, and become a more active community. Furthermore, our Student Council has goals to get Spring Court back to honor the sports played during that season and have a fundraiser for the school. Student Council leaders explained that they want to make the school a better place by being more inclusive, having people engage in planned activities, and creating a positive atmosphere on campus. “I wanted to make a change in the community of our school and make it a more positive place to uplift each other,” said Benish, StuCo Secretary. As our officers take on the responsibilities and hard work that accompany being our student leadAmaro ers, Heritage will have a lot to look Armando Espinal (11), Joseline Guaderrama (11), Molly Benish (10) and Alice forward to this year and in the years Wise (10) are the new officers for Student Council. They have big plans for Heritage High School. to come.
Attendance Is Incentivized Ledbetter
Talon Staff On Friday, Nov. 17, Heritage High School awarded students with a party during lunch for students who met the attendance requirement of 15 consistent days of attendance. This was an attempt to encourage students to care about and strive for better attendance. Even though the first attendance party caught students off-guard, the admin and teachers were working hard to organize and plan the party, which was in development for about two months, according to Principal Chip Greenwell. There were many things students Ledbetter were able to buy at this special lunch Students walk in the hallways during passing period. Attendance is being encouraged through various incentives this year. party including Kona Ice.
“Sno cones, a lot of people, and balloons was what you could find there,” said Kaity Cervantes (11). Students had a yellow ticket that allowed them to get in and they were given an extended lunch period. “Daily attendance is so important for students’ success,” said Greenwell. “We know attendance makes everything easier because students are able to learn in the classrooms, ask their teachers for help if they have questions, and not feel so overwhelmed.” The goal was to reward students who maintained good attendance and encourage other students to improve their attendance. Currently, there is not another date on the calendar, but admin is working to make more incentives to improve daily attendance.
All-Region Clinic Concludes Moomtin
Talon Staff The band players performed in the All-Region band clinic on January 26 at Heritage High School. All-Region provides a performance where the students play whereas the teachers grade them. They performed in the auditorium on the stage. The Heritage students have been practicing and playing. All of their hard work and performances have led up to this concert. “The Band Region clinic was really good,” said Chris Richards, the band director. “It’s important to note that their instrument playing can determine which chair they get depending on how good they played. First chair is basically the best one in an instru-
Snow Days
out the school year. While the official bell schedule is still being worked on, it is suggested that the average day would last from 8:20 am to 3:50 pm. “The 2024/2025 calendar that has been accepted by the board. I personally think it is a good choice. It gets us to school on time in August and gets us out at the end of May so there’s not really any down side to it,” said Coach Wayne Levering, “An extra 20 minutes added on the day is not going to make any difference whatsoever at the high
ment section.” said Richards. The band All-Region concert clinic is a meeting with band players where the audience questions the musician’s styles and techniques. It can also improve their own skill. It can adapt more skills for band players. “It’s really exciting for myself and for the band players. The band players play and we determine who gets first chair. It’s important to grade the students on what they did wrong and how to avoid doing it,” said Christian Beck, the Assistant Director of bands. The All-Region Band concert clinic has been concluded. The Heritage students are more adaptable to the skills the teachers have been indicating. They’re excited for the Reza (The Heritage Archive) concert assessment and hope all their The Pride of Heritage Marching band plays during senior night on Oct. 27. hard work and effort pays off to it.
from p. 1 school level, and that accumulated time will build up enough hours that people will still get credit and keep our holidays.” Even if not all 5 snow days are observed, teachers will be properly compensated for the time they spent teaching, but the school year will not end early. “I think there are pros and cons to everything. I do think that not going into the summer is a good thing,” said Chip Greenwell, principal at Heritage, “I would rather us be able to start summer early and
so in that sense I do think that it is positive.” “This new school calendar seems to be more beneficial because then we don’t have to go into June,” said Adrian Pabon (10), “Even though the days are longer, it’s worth it in the end.” Fayetteville schools have already begun extending their school hours to accommodate for the amount of snow days that occurred in January. Following this information, on February 20 the board will discuss possibly implementing
the schedule this school year. As of now though, 3 teacher work development days have been canceled and school will be in session in order to not continue this year further into June. February 19, March 25, and May 31 are all the days that were previously closed. “My suggestion would always be to try and look on the bright side of things,” said Greenwell, “While we can not know what the weather will be a year from now, we can try and be smart and utilize our time well before the summer kicks off.”
FEATURES 4
Feb. 12, 2024
THE TALON
Heritage Students Reflect on Their New Years Resolutions Fitzpatrick, Jordan & Manes Talon Staff
With the New Year upon us, students around Heritage are setting goals and resolutions that they are hoping to stick with for the remainder of the year, in hopes to better themselves. We all know how hard it is to make a New Year’s resolution and stick with it, whether it be going to the gym, eating healthier, getting better grades, manifesting self-positivity or finding a job. “My New Year’s resolution was to start working out and to be more fit,” said Ella Foster (11). “I was doing really well up until we got back to school, then it was like there was so much going on it wasn’t as important as everything else.” Sticking with a resolution isn’t easy, but the feeling you get when you commit to it is “beyond worth it” and can make you feel “empowered” and motivated to get through, she said. Other students have chosen not to make a resolution, because they don’t want to fail or feel guilty. “In the past years, I haven’t upheld my resolutions,” said Angie Ramirez (12). “So I thought, ‘Why do it this year?’” When faced with difficulty in his resolution, Mason Hughes (11) decided to change his goal slightly to make it more attainable. “My New Year’s resolution was
Manes
Stephen Kelly (12) talks with Amy Woolsey about an assignment in another class. Many students have made resolutions about their school performance or attendance in the New Year.
to go to school more,” he said. “Here week,’ instead of not going. Somerecently, I’ve been falling behind in times it’s harder than I expected, but school, and it’s changed to more of I’m trying my best.” a ‘go to school most days out of the When it comes to New Year’s
resolutions, they can be hard to follow through with. However, the advice from these HHS students can encourage you to take it step-by-step.
This year, there are four new administrators in the main office of Heritage High School. The Talon has done profiles of each of the new principals in each of our print issues, and we are concluding the series with this month’s features on Assistant Principals Jayna Moffit and Ashlye Pool.
Meet the Admin:
Gray
Principal Jayna Moffit
Talon Staff Janya Moffit has completed her first semester here at Heritage, and she is still feeling the War Eagle spirit. “I absolutely love Heritage,” Moffit said. “Some of the things that I love about Heritage are the kindness and thoughtfulness of individual students and staff. Everybody is here to be very supportive of one another.” Moffit’s job has a heavy focus on instruction. Her role includes working with students who have IEP or 504 plans. She also does a lot with coordinating assessments and tests such as the ACT and WorkKeys. “I would say that my title is really just being a servant leader, which means that I am here to support and help in any way that I can whether that’s students, parents and such or whether that’s staff, but ultimately with the goal of progressing forward.” Moffit said. Moffit works closely with all team members but focuses mostly on English and science. Originally, Moffit planned to pursue a career in engineering by with her bachelor’s degree in math and physics with a pre-engineering minor. It wasn’t until a few years later that Moffit was introduced to being an educator through a service opportunity and immediately fell in love with it
and the pursuit of bettering students’ learning experiences. Moffit began in a mathematics teaching position and continued for 19 years before starting a role as assistant principal in the Siloam Springs School District. “I did not see myself getting into an administrative position until one day I was told by one of my own mentors, ‘you need to be doing that,’ and so I actually had the opportunity to have my children as students in my classroom (they chose that) and when that opportunity had passed I knew that it was time for me to go ahead and pursue what I was told I needed to pursue,” she said. After two years at Siloam Springs, she decided to apply for the open assistant principal position at HHS last spring. Moffit spends most of her time at Heritage or working toward her own eduction. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. Although she doesn’t have much free time at the moment, when she does she enjoys spending time with her family, swimming and paddle boarding at the lake. Moffit is excited to be here and continue helping the school move forward. “I think honestly the idea that we have so much going in the right direction is the thing that I love most about Heritage,” she said. “So many people are jumping in to be part of how we can continue to skyrocket.”
Meet the Admin:
Principal Ashlye Pool
Gray & Jones Talon Staff
Ashlye Pool has always had an interest in becoming a teacher. Pool grew up in Northwest Arkansas and moved to Oklahoma to attend college. After four years of school, she taught in Oklahoma for four more years, first as an agriculture teacher then as a science teacher. In 2021, she moved to Arkansas to work at Heritage, where she taught Biology and AP Environmental Science for two years. She was hired as an assistant principal this summer. “Becoming an admin here is a very big difference especially in perspective,” she said. “I like to tell everyone it’s a lot of the same conversations and working with the same ideas, it’s just from a different perspective. When I was a teacher, I was looking through the lens like ‘How can I benefit the 150 students I teach every day?’ Now it’s ‘How can I benefit the 130-plus staff and the 2,000 students here?’ And of course it’s not a solo job, it’s a team effort. It’s a challenge but I am enjoying it so far.” Pool is constantly moving and working to grow both the school and herself. She works tirelessly everyday to ensure that our school is safe and that the students are getting the education they deserve. Before she became an admin, she kept snacks and water in her
closet for students who were hungry or thirsty. Small acts like that made students to feel safe in her classroom, and now she is working towards making the school feel like that. “Day to day, one of my responsibilities is being in teachers’ classrooms and observing them, offering feedback and working with students and teachers in order to continue growing personally and schoolwide,” Pool said. Currently, Pool is working on coordinating schedules and placement for testing. This has been hard work but Pool acknowledges that it is worth it. “If you care about the people that are here inside of the walls at Heritage it matters, so it’s worth the work that you are doing,” she said. Pool spends most of her already limited free time with her family and dog. She has a younger sister in dance and enjoys attending her competitions to show support. Pool also spends time relaxing. “Part of this job that is new to me as an administrator is that there’s a lot of work that goes into it and so a lot of my downtime is downtime. I just go and relax. There’s not a lot of effort in my free time,” Pool said. Without the administrative team and our teachers here at Heritage, we wouldn’t be able to have the school that we have today. Thanks to our hard-working administrators and teachers, we are able to have a fun and safe school to learn at everyday.
THE TALON
Feb. 12, 2024
FEATURES
5
HHS Annual Multicultural Assembly Expands for 2024 Howard
Talon Staff Heritage High School is hosting a family night on March 14 from 5-8 p.m. on campus to celebrate diversity of and bring the community together. Since 2022, Heritage has held an annual multicultural assembly on the Friday before spring break to shine a light on the many cultures in our student body. The multicultural assembly allows clubs on campus including Black Student Association (BSA), mariachi band, the Islanders Club and the League of United Latin American Nations (LULAC) to showcase their cultures. “Our intentions are to provide students with the cultural knowledge of what we have here at this school and for them to just know we all belong in this school so
everybody feels welcome,” said Bani Lopez, HHS Spanish teacher and member of the planning committee. This year, Heritage is expanding the vision and offering a multicultural night so that our community can come together instead of just our school. Students and families from Heritage and all fo the feeder schools are invited, and vendors from the community will be present for dinner and snacks. “Having this event is important because we want our students to know that everyone is welcome at this school and that we accept any cultural background and we also want to honor and celebrate our cultural differences,” said Lopez. Ultimately, the multicultural night is a chance to expand the Salazar (The Heritage Archive) good that’s happening at Heritage Students dance with the flags of their countries during the multicultural assembly in March 2023. This has become an annual tradition at Heritage. into Rogers as a whole.
The Matter of Love: Valentine’s Day at HHS Students Budget for the Holiday of Love Sandbergen Talon Staff
Celebrating Valentine’s Day can be a fun and meaningful time for students, but it can also bring financial pressure. Spending on gifts, flowers, dining and other related products and services for Valentine’s day can be difficult. Businesses often strategically Market their products to capitalize on the sentiment of love and affection associated with this day. Due to the nature of the holiday, students might feel a financial strain when it comes to planning gifts and setting up fun activities for their special someone. It’s also important to consider the budget to avoid overspending and putting yourself in a bad situation later on. “I’m probably going to buy [my girlfriend] some sweets or chocolates, some flowers, and new earrings or a necklace, which would add up to around $80 to $100,” said Issac Saclolo (11). When it comes to Valentine’s Day on a budget, students can also make homemade gifts, plan inexpensive dates, and consider sharing costs with their admirers. A common way to show love and appreciation without overspending is to be crafty on something simple, such as a beaded bracelet or handcrafted necklace, chenille wire flowers, or even a home-cooked meal. It is best to consider their characteristics and the things they enjoy when buying or making their gifts. “I looked up some DIY crafts, and I’m making ribbon flowers. I’m making bouquets for a few of my friends,” said Chloe Fisher (9). She wanted to keep her gifts on a budget so that she can “make multiples and so that it’s more from the heart than the pocket.” This mindset is in line with advice from Wayne Levering, who teaches Dynamics of Human Relations, which prepares students for adult responsibilities. “The best way to manage your finances is to be disciplined, purposeful and start with small, doable goals,” he said. “People who immediately ‘go big’ when man-
Love Spreads at Heritage Barstow
Talon Staff
Sandbergen & Barstow
Students purchase Valentine’s gifts from FBLA during lunch. Clubs like FBLA and the Mariachi Band use this season to raise money.
aging finances without both discipline and purpose will fail.” Other students have decided to invest in their dates with big gifts. “I’m planning to spend around $100 and $140,” said Michaela Bouchet (12). “I want to reserve a date somewhere we can agree on and get him flowers since guys don’t get much of any.”
Bouchet and Saclolo have been dating since 2022. Whether you’re in a relationship or not, you should be taking steps to stay within your budget. It’s important to keep your income and balance in check to be safe from debt or fees, even if you’re only buying flowers for yourself.
In the hallways of Heritage High School, the countdown to Valentine’s Day has begun, and the words “Will you be my Valentine?” fill the air. These six simple words hold the power to spark heartfelt proposals, turning our campus into a canvas for romance. In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, anticipation has reached a crescendo as students executed heartwarming gestures. From crafted notes, to elaborate surprise displays with big signs, flowers and chocolates. “I think asking someone to be your Valentine is a cute little thing,” said Esme Cruz (12). “Even if you have a significant other, I feel like you should still ask them because it’s just like a nice little reminder to show someone you actually care.” Other students agree that it’s a special day to share your love. “Valentine’s Day is so cute in my opinion,” said Jaretmy Ramirez (11). “It shows that you care about your partner, and I love seeing all the cute gift baskets and flowers around the hallways. I love seeing the men and the gays step up.” Speaking of stepping up, Heritage High School has taken the romance ambiance a step further by offering flowers, roses and a bundle of a rose and candy during A & B lunch for students to share on Valentine’s Day. These offerings started at $2 for a singular flower, $3 for a rose and the bundle for $5. “I think Valentine’s Day is a sweet concept to make sure your loved ones feel loved and cared for by going out of your way to surprise them with things they can cherish and enjoy,” said Jaela Park (10). While the tradition of exchanging gifts and sweet gestures is undeniably charming, the true meaning of Valentine’s Day lies in its ability to inspire gratitude for the people who sweeten our lives. Valentine’s Day encourages us to take a moment to express our affection, whether that be through the heartfelt conversations, the cute gestures or simply by being present for those who matter most.
OPINION 6
Feb. 12, 2024
THE TALON
The Loss of AMI Days Causes Students, Schools to Suffer Do, Salgado Talon Staff
With the passage of the Arkansas LEARNS Act in 2023, Alternative Method of Instruction or AMI was no longer allowed to be used to make up school days for any Arkansas public schools. This was decided because many students were not being productive during AMI. As a result, schools must make-up days throughout the semester. For students and staff, it means that school days may take place in June if there are too many snow days. Additionally, teacher work days, professional development days, and others will be changed to make up for missing school due to hazardous weather. However, a decision made by Secretary Jacob Olivia, a commissioner of ADE’s division of elementary and secondary schools of Arkansas, has opted for an alternate way to make up school days, rather than making them up in June. This decision involves making school days longer. Rogers Public Schools has taken this into consideration to possibly keep June 3 as the last day of school rather than extending further into summer break. However, students would have to be in school longer each day. “I think it’s pretty stupid,” said Luna Baraza (11). “I don’t think anyone will show up to [school in June]. I can see how [not having AMI] can help others because others learn better in person, but I think it’s really unnecessary.” For the majority of students, compensating for missing days during summer break is unreason-
Snow and ice shut down schools for five days in January. Rogers is currently expected to have school until June.
able. Snow days are not decided by students, and it is up to schools to decide whether to keep schools opened or closed. Having school in-person when students are supposed to have summer is demoralizing and stress-inducing. The moment we think we’re done, we get sent right back into the environment that stressed us out to begin with. The consensus is that forcing students to keep going to school during their break does not create an environment where learning is wanted or welcomed. By then, the only purpose of those recouped days in June would be for attendance. There won’t be any AP or state tests to be learning and studying for anymore, and it is unlikely that there would be any assignments or formative assess-
ment during those days. It’s a misuse of time and energy when public schools could be directing their focus to more crucial matters. AMI days still can provide crucial time for students who need the opportunity. Despite the idea that many students were not being productive during AMI, even during our latest snow days, there were students who used those days to catch up on missing work. This just goes to show that students do know how to use their time well. “I did my work and spent those days studying for upcoming exams,” said Sofia Moreno (9). AMI days are a time when students can comfortably relax and enjoy the weather and do work at their own pace. The fact that many students don’t do their work can
be a lack of incentive and public schools could be given the opportunity to find ways to accommodate this, instead of losing AMI days altogether. Extended learning days is also a difficult path forward. With most of our day already being dedicated to school, adding more school on top of that is borderline miserable. Overall, no student wants to have extended days nor have to lose days off their break for school. AMI days are important, and provide more benefits than staying home and not doing school work. “It’s beneficial to have AMI days,” said Alicia Schwartz, who teaches AP Language and Composition. “It gives us an opportunity to keep learning even if schools are closed.”
Attendance: A Two-Way Street The Academically Lazy Fitzpatrick & Manes Talon Staff
What are some changes heritage administration and staff could do to improve students attendance. When talking to students about some things they would like to see within the school to fix attendance there were multiple answers and ideas but one of the biggest comments was about the teachers themselves. “ Something the teachers can do to make me wanna go to class is actually teaching us the work instead of giving us a paper and not telling us how to do it,” said Daphne Bresler (Freshman). She goes on to talk about the fact that teachers should motivate us and get us excited to be in class, and im sure most of you including myself would agree with that. Maybe some motivation beyond a test score would make me want to try harder, after all teachers do what they can to get pay raises right? I understand not all teachers are this way and some are doing the best they can but what about the coaches who forget your name after the first day? What about the older teachers who are just here so that they can get a retirement check in the mail in a year or two? Don’t you think that if you gave these kids a reason to come to class everyday that they would be
here. Instead you hear the common phrase “ if your not gonna come to class and want to learn you shouldnt come to class at all “ but then the school is surprised they have to take so many kids to court when they miss over 10 days a semester, or when the lecture hall fills with kids in saturday school to the point it has to be held in the commons to accommodate everyone. “My attendance this year was pretty decent. Something the teachers can do to help make us want to come to class is making it a fun class instead of just coming to class and making us sit there and stare at a screen and take notes all class.” said Steven Kelley (Senior) We as students understand that all of these options are not always obtainable, but that teachers that show up every day and go out of there way to not only understand there students but to treat us more like people and less like a monthly paycheck have not only better daily attendance but class wise kids are engaged and genuinely learning. As students we don’t expect a lot, but teachers if your boss sat you infront of a projector or computer and slapped a sheet of paper down in front of you and told you to take notes for a grade everyday for 47 minutes 5 days out of the week, yet could only remember your name when your being “rowdy”, would it make you want to come to school?
Lopez & Sanchez Talon Staff
In the last few years, Heritage High school students are getting lazy with their school work and attendance therefore, assignments are not getting turned in. These actions that these students are making are very irresponsible and will affect them in the future. Some of the effects are having to do credit recovery, if you fail a class, you can possibly not graduate. Another effect is that when you don’t do your work you will start getting stacks of missing assignments and will later lead to stress. “It gets difficult at times especially when I don’t have most of the time to manage, especially because I work five hour shifts, but for others it’s also difficult because they have other classes and different work to do and they don’t have the time for that” said Luna Barraza (11). Although some kids have their reasons for not getting their work turned in they still have a chance to do their work. For example some teachers give out Make-Up Days for you to finish their class work and other work. Yet the assignments are still yet not done Some students have jobs and that can interfere with school life. Their shifts can be long and can even go late into the night. Several students say that they don’t have the energy to do their work. “Why I think students aren’t doing their work is with me being a math
Do
teacher is that most of it is that they been told their entire life that they are bad at math and that they can’t do math, so they come in with my class with that same mindset and it takes a long time for it to change, or for them to change their opinion or they don’t even care to change at all they just stick with the negative thoughts, I think it’s a lot of mindset they come to highschool with but then I also think that part of it its student effort and not wanting to do the work” said Isllaly Cervantes, who teaches Algebra I. Some teachers say that the students are unmotivated to do their work. Students feel like they are bad at some subjects and that they can’t do those things. Often the reality is that they really just need help understanding and to change the mindset of them not being capable of doing these subjects. “Keeping up with classes can be stressful, and fulfilling at times, but at the same time, if you don’t care about your grades what is there to care about?” said Brandon Sanchez (10). “I think a lot of people fall behind on grades at the end of the semester because it’s like you’re already halfway through so like why do you have to do the other half, but the second semester is just as important as the first.” Overall, Heritage High School students should be working towards their grades. School may get hard and some subjects may be tricky, but working hard and studying can really affect your mindset.
SPORTS
Feb. 12, 2024
THE TALON
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Wrestling Eyes Regionals Coleman, Medndez Talon Staff
After an exceptional season, the War Eagle Wrestling team is preparing for regionals on Feb. 17 at Heritage. War Eagle Wrestling prepares for post-season events after a successful season. They continue to practice and improve, and they hope to be in the top four at regionals which qualifies the team for state. “I just feel like it’s really a great experience to see and watch your teammates get better and find out if they’re a solid wrestler. It’s so good to see them win,” said Shelby Dean (12). Both teams have had many memorable wins this season, including beating their cross-town rivals, the Rogers Mounties. Varsity women beat Bentonville 36-30 in a very competitive conference dual. Varsity men won against Southside, Northside, and Harber High Schools. “We’ve done the same thing all year long,” assistant coach Trace Talley said. “Every tournament we’ve told our kids, there’s only one that matters, and that’s regionals. Ever since I came in last July, that’s been the whole motto of the team. If we lose in Coweta, that’s fine. It gets us better for regionals. We’ve run the same system ever since we got here. We’ve really hammered fundamentals, and that’s what’s gotten us to this point essentially.” The accomplishments of this season have been fueled with teamwork and dedication. Both teams have practiced and performed, hoping to be one of the top four teams at regionals, qualifying for the state championship in Little Rock. “A lot of it is how the team works together. We’ve never really had an issue with that but this year it’s a really good thing. We’re one big family and we’re going to work well this year,” said Ethan McCrary (12). War Eagle Wrestling will compete in regionals on Feb. 17 at Heritage with hopes to advance to compete for the last time at the wrestling state championship.
Salazar
Naomi Bobst (12) runs the 100-meter dash during the state indoor track meet at the University of Arkansas on Feb. 3.
War Eagle Track Readies for Outdoor Season Isbell, Newberry Talon Staff
The Outdoor track season starts on March 1 at Fayetteville High School, and the track team is hyped and ready for the season. The Heritage High School track team has always been a powerhouse in the state, known for producing top-tier athletes and bringing home numerous championships. As we gear up for the new season, there is a lot to be excited about and plenty to look forward to. With a strong roster of returning athletes and promising new additions, there is no doubt that this season will be a good one. Head track coach Tyler Rathkey has been working tirelessly with the athletes to prepare them
for the upcoming outdoor track and field season. “Right now, we are just trying to focus on each individual on our team getting better and improving everyday. We will see when we get to outdoor season where that puts us and what goals we can have for our team,” said Rathkey. With a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, the team is well-equipped to take on their opponents. This year, there are high expectations for the team as they have several standout athletes who have already made a name for themselves in the track and field community. “I want to strive for a time under a minute and try to challenge myself by doing different events such as the 800,” said Gabby Cuccia (10).
One of Heritage’s key competitors this season is Bruce Payerli (11). Payerli has been an integral part of the team. Dedicated to leading his team to victory, he has consistently placed in the top three in various meets over the past two years. His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. “[If I] practice hard between practices and stay focused, I think I can make it to state and maybe win again,” Payerli said. As the team prepares for their first meet, the excitement and anticipation is high. The Heritage track team is ready to take on their rivals and make their mark. With a strong team dynamic, hard work and determination, this season is sure to be a memorable one for the Heritage track team.
Kiahd, Sparling
they compete against. Every season the boys varsity basketball team tries their hardest during tournaments. However, they are continuing to improve the team daily to prepare for regionals. Although there are still skills they need to improve on, they have high hopes of winning their next tournament and regionals. “I think we could’ve done better,” said Jordan Dipley (12), “The hardest team we played against was Fayetteville and Springdale.” Regardless of the trials and difficulties the teams have faced this season, they are still determined to better themselves and grow as players and as teammates. They have high hopes for the coming seasons. The Heritage varsity basketball teams are going to continue to work on their skills to reach their full proficiency and potential. The boys and girls varsity basketball teams last conference tournament will be on February 23 against Northside. If they make it to the state tournament, their last game will be on February 26, with the location yet to be determined.
Basketball Post Season Looms Talon Staff
The boys and girls varsity basketball team competed at many tournaments which started November 16 and ends February 23. The season had been long and difficult but overall a rewarding learning experience. The Heritage girls varsity basketball team have fought fiercely this season through practice and improvement. They practice daily during and after 7th hour. “We had a rough start, but we started to figure it out as a team and we have been working better,” said Brooklyn Simmons (12). The season started rocky for the varsity girls, but they were quick to recover, persevering to make it to state tournaments. Though they have not competed against all the teams in their conference yet, they are continuing to work hard to make it to the state championship. The Heritage Boys Varsity Sparling Basketball team has been pushing through this season, successfully Sophie Sarratt (11) dribbles the ball around a defender during the rivalry game against the Rogers Mounties on Wednesday, Jan. 31. beating the majority of the teams
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PHOTO ESSAY
Feb. 12, 2024
THE TALON
A First Glance for Rising Freshmen Photos and Story by Perez and Manes
On January 23-24, Heritage was the host for future freshmen from Lingle and Oakdale middle schools visiting Heritage to tour the school and on January 31 during Future Freshman Night.
With the help of teachers and link crew members, 8th grade students from Heritage feeder schools were given a full tour of HHS. They followed their tour guides through our hallways and visited classes. These students were also able to visit a robotics class where the robotics teacher spoke about what the class consists of and then brought out 2 remote-control robots for everyone to test out. “I’ve been nervous about high school because I’m going to be in classes with people I don’t know,” said Hailey Hardin, an 8th grader at Lingle, “I’m looking forward to the new class opportunities I’ll have though.” Students had another chance to get to know our school with their parents at Future Freshman Night. Families were greeted with a look into our pep rallies and they had the chance to hear about class options, extracurricular activities, and their future teachers. Clubs advertised their activity by running their own stand where they informed students about what the club entails.
“I’m most excited about joining the cheer team and meeting new people!” said Danieal Anaya, an 8th grade cheerleader at Lingle.
These events encourage our future war eagles and give them chances to prepare themselves for the future at Heritage High School.