Students and teachers question their safety on campus
Talon Editor-in-Chief
With school shootings rising in America, school safety has become more important than ever; despite online threats, Heritage’s security team is prepared and taking active steps to ensure maximum safety for Heritage students and staff.
Security is one of the most important factors in a school. Students have the right to walk onto campus and feel safe rather than unsafe or on edge. This year the administration is taking multiple new security measures to increase the level of safety here at Heritage. Some of
Tornado Damage Continues to Impact Rogers Community
Garrido Talon Reporter
On May 26, a tornado hit multiple homes and schools in Arkansas, impacting the lives of students and staff from Heritage.
The tornado passed through 13 states, hitting the city of Rogers particularly badly. Heavy rain started passing from 12 am to 1 am, with two tornadoes passing by shortly after. It destroyed many stores and restaurants down Walnut Street as well as damaging homes in many surrounding neighborhoods.
“We had moved 3 weeks before the tornado and our house was hit pretty good. We had multiple trees on our house and our yard, tons of leaks, multiple windows bashed open, no power for over a week, fences destroyed, and trees not in a
good spot. Most of my neighbors’ houses were so bad they had to move out for a while,” said Principal Chip Greenwell.
When Greenwell’s house was hit, it affected his whole family. Even though his house had a lot of damage, he still decided to put his own issues aside to continue working to make sure his community was safe and well.
“We had incredible community support and a number of teachers, both at Heritage and around the district, were ultra helpful. People came to the house with chainsaws ready to work, and worked in the heat and the sun. My family and I were just super grateful for all the work that they provided and food and drinks and everything just to
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these measures include new brighter exterior lights, assigned parking spaces for students and staff, and new staff members dedicated specifically to safety and security.
“We have a full time school re-
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New Eagle Period expectations cause fewer absences and secure campus
Fitzgerald Talon Reporter
The shift to students primarily staying in a single classroom each day for Eagle Period marks a significant change in their educational experience, impacting not only their daily routines but also their social interactions and access to interventions and extracurriculars.
This change was made in response to safety concerns and challenges of students not being in class, leading to a more structured environment. However, this change has come with a lot of opinions from students and teachers about how it affects our learning and long term academic and social development.
In previous years, some students would skip Eagle Period to spend time with friends in the hallways or off campus, and they wouldn’t use
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Tornado continued
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School Resource Officer (SRO) Jeffery Ochoa demonstrates patrolling the halls daily to ensure students’ safety.
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After tornado struck on May 26, many NWA houses were left destroyed.
Safety
source officer with Officer Ochoa, who’s on campus all the time. We have multiple other police officers that are on our campus additionally all the time. We have multiple trainings for the staff before students get on campus regarding safety and security. We have a full safety team of about a dozen administrators, teachers, and counselors that meet monthly with police officers to review where we are at and what we need to continue to work on,” said Principal Chip Greenwell.
Heritage also has an anonymous tip line that admin uses frequently. Greenwell estimates roughly 30 different tips from students every day. Essentially the school has five full time staff members who are focused specifically on safety and security including a staff member dedicated to patrolling the parking lots.
“One of the biggest things for security is prevention; the biggest prevention that we have is locking doors, exterior and interior doors,” said Greenwell.
Officer Jeffery Ochoa, Heritage’s onsite police officer, spends his time here patrolling the halls, answering the tip line, and watching the security footage to insure protection.
“I think our team here is very good and does a very good job with security. We take security very seriously, every person here has a role that they play,” says Ochoa. “I think that it’s impossible to be perfect, the only thing we can do is progress.”
Shortly after The Talon interviewed Officer Ochoa, a threat nearby the school caused Heritage to institute a modified hold in place order per police recommendation, with students not allowed to leave
Eagle Period
that time to make up missing assignments or tests.
“I dislike it [this year] because I have to sit in second hour for an hour and a half. Even though they did it to help people stop skipping, it’s boring sitting in there for that long period of time,” said Landon Bittick (11).
Last year, Heritage used a website called RTI Scheduler to manage where students would go during Eagle Period. This year, we changed to a new website called Securly Flex, which many students and teachers are struggling to adapt to using.
“I don’t like how hard it is to work the Flex app, and if we can’t get into it we have to go to the office because my teacher doesn’t know how to work it either so it makes everything complicated. I don’t want to walk to the office every day to find out my Eagle Period,” said Karmen Hoffarth (10).
Although there are some negatives with the new Eagle Period, it has improved campus and student safety, and it has also improved student attendance.
“If kids need help or intervention, it helps students stay on campus versus skipping. I’m a TAEP [Teacher on Assignment during Eagle Period] this year so I do miss getting to see some of my students who would come to my class for RTI, but I do see the purpose of it. Also the kids who have straight A’s maybe need a break during the day to socialize but can’t get that anymore because of the new RTI system,” said CTE teacher Amy Woolsey.
the building and parent and bus drop off directed to the front of the school as a precautionary measure. This event caused a lot more concern for how safe Heritage really is.
“I think today is proof that we can move quickly to make sure that all [students and staff] are safe. We re-routed the parents, we re-routed the buses, we made sure that the kids were safe, and at no point in time were we in any intimate danger on campus, but we had to make some maneuvers for things off campus. It’s the constant collaboration of the team that allows us to be able to navigate any type of safety issue quickly,” said Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) Brian Walker.
Safety in and out of the classroom is a worry for any person in this day and age. Despite threats and safety concerns, Heritage’s administration has proven that the school is as safe as it can be even with the simple act of locking all doors. Yet there are always ways to improve. For example having ID badges, or having a gate blocking the courtyard have all been in consideration within administration for years.
“I like the idea of ID badges, it is something we have been talking about for years, [but] there are a lot of people that have to be on board with that idea in order for us to implement it. We need everyone, like all three high schools, central office, and the Board of Education on board. Having ID badges [would be] nice, though there is no one singular answer. We could search every person who walks on our campus, but that’s not the reality and it makes it feel like a prison. I don’t want us to feel like a prison, I want
“[There are] less people skipping third and fourth hour after Eagle Period but it’s also hard to get kids for more than one day, if we need to review one day and take the test the next day. But I like the fact that we’re keeping everyone in second hour unless they need to go make up work so they have a place they have to be versus them just wanting to skip, said math teacher Chris Bishop.
Good attendance is important for students to graduate. With the new Eagle Period expectations,
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us to feel like a school, but I want us to feel like a safe school,” said Greenwell.
Greenwell additionally states that he believes the best way to stay safe is to be properly trained and have proper awareness of the situation since unforeseen attacks can happen at any time.
“Security is always our priority and I think that it is something that we are doing a good job of, it is also something that will never be 100%,” said Greenwell. “Our job is always to figure out ways we can continue to improve things, continue to grow things, and continue to make things better.”
Tornado
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make sure that we were okay,” said Greenwell.
This tornado really turned things upside down for a lot of people, but others did not give up and kept on going forward, helping anyone who really needed the help. Rogers High School served as a hub for community donations and volunteers who worked tirelessly in the aftermath to provide for people whose homes had been hit.
“Heritage cares, that really showed itself tremendously during the tornado. I spent two days up here cutting trees and did [work] at faculties houses that didn’t have a saw or they needed help themselves. It was a growing time for our community and we really came together in the time of need. We showed ourselves the true family that we are,” said debate teacher Wayne Levering.
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fewer students are skipping class, which means fewer students have to attend summer school.
“I like Eagle Period because last year students being in the same class for three days wasn’t necessary if they only needed to finish an assignment or retake a test. Last year some students made some poor choices and left campus or skipped in the hallways, and with this new system it helps our students stay safer and the environment is safer as well,” said Greenwell.
Editorial Staff
Pullen, EIC
Clark
Fraire
Henry
Reporters
Boyd
Brace
Cole
Cox
Deere
Fitzpatrick
Garcia
Garrido
Jordan
Perez
Rambo
Britney McLain, Adviser Chip Greenwell, Principal
Special thanks to The Heritage yearbook staff and former adviser Kristen Coppola for helping with our first edition.
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.
Opinion
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.
Memberships
The Talon is an institutional member of the Arkansas Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.
Student Press
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Students demonstrate nagivating the new program SecurlyFLEX to use for Eagle Period.
FEATURES
Day in the Life: Principal Greenwell
Rambo Talon Reporter
Two members of The Talon staff spent a day shadowing Principal Chip Greenwell on Oct 2, and it showed just how much he does for the people at Heritage to keep everyone safe and help students achieve their goals.
Greenwell’s morning began long before 8:20am, and he spent most of the first half of the day in important meetings. Then he went to lunch duty to make sure kids are behaving and not skipping school or walking the halls.
After lunch, Greenwell attended a monthly finance check-in meeting and the weekly principals’ meeting, where our administrators discussed logistical procedures that help keep things running smoothly even during school-wide testing or in the case of a potential threat to our safety.
Being the principal of a comprehensive high school such as Heritage means that Greenwell takes on a lot of important roles, such as
making sure the staff and students are safe and making sure students get what they need to be successful.
Greenwell spends much of his time walking the halls building relationships with students. He wants students to value their education. “How are you supposed to be successful in life if you don’t go to class?” said Greenwell.
The idea of active participation extends beyond the classroom. As Greenwell says, “If you see something, say something.” This mantra encourages us to take responsibility not only for our education but also for our community, ensuring that we support one another in creating a safe and thriving environment.
“I’ve been at four districts and eight schools, and this is by far the strongest team I’ve worked with,” Greenwell said.
After shadowing Greenwell all day, it is obvious that we need to respect our principal. He does so much for us to make sure we have a good day at school and to help us want to be at school to learn so we can be successful in life.
Community Service Clubs Help Students Fulfill 75-Hour Requirement
Boyd Talon Reporter
Students have a multitude of chances to complete their 75 hours of community service throughout the academic year, thanks to the diverse array of service opportunities like Paws Together and Friends of Rogers. Organizations like these give students an opportunity to create a meaningful, lasting impact in the Rogers community.
English teacher Alicia Schwartz is the faculty sponsor for the school club Paws Together. “Our goal is to work with local animal shelters to provide them with resources and help when needed. So, we’re working closely with the Rogers Humane Society,” Schwartz said.
Paws Together works on Saturdays and also provides Club Friday sessions for anyone who would like to join.
Friends of Rogers demonstrates
a similar spirit of compassion and commitment. When asked about the inspiration behind the establishment of this club, Damaris Sanchez (9) said, “It’s to help those who may be struggling mentally to have a safe space.”
The organization has a direct mission to offer support through projects like the Wall of Hope in the cafeteria, which provides reassuring comments through sticky notes. The Walk Out of Darkness was a volunteering event earlier this month on October 6th. Many volunteers came to The Walk Out of Darkness to walk for the prevention of suicide. Through it all, the main priority of this club is to create a safe and supportive space for mental health and to have a meaningful impact within the community.
“We’re trying to create monthly projects for these groups of people just to spread positivity throughout our community and throughout the
world. Not only does it make you feel good, it makes somebody else feel good, and having that knowl-
edge that you’ve done something to help someone else is very rewarding,” said Ashley Flesher (12).
Student-Athletes Overcome Mental Health Struggles
landscape where mental health is prioritized, reflecting a growing recognition that emotional well-being is essential for both performance and overall health amidst the
pressures of competition and academics.
“We talk about it a lot in volleyball, about how if we’re getting down on ourselves and put too much pressure on ourselves then we will play really bad. If we keep a good attitude on the court and have a ‘memory of a goldfish’ is what our coach says we just forget our past mistakes and lift each other up, and that helps us play really well,” said Jaidyn Sampier (11).
Discussing mental health openly as a team and finding ways to cope together can create a good team bond and foster a deeper connection amongst players.
“I know I have to have good grades in order to play so I’m constantly thinking about volleyball whether or not I’m on the court. So if i’m in a test I think I need to pass this test otherwise i won’t be able to play. If I have a missing assignment then I don’t get to play,” said Jastin Ware (12).
Having to constantly think that
if you make one mistake in class could affect your whole sport is challenging for athletes. The idea that if you get one bad grade you can’t play a game can cause a lot of stress and anxiety when coming to school each day and even when you’re on the court.
“Mental health is a big part of volleyball. In volleyball if you make one mistake it feels like you’re letting your team down because you only play until 25 points. But you can really count how many points you feel like are your fault. So I think in the game it’s very important to be able to get over those mistakes. It’s a really mental heavy game and you can really put a lot of damper on yourself for being bad and I think during school it’s important to have good mental health because what you are in school reflects what your game is, so if you’re kind to others and you’re able to show yourself grace and you’re able to show others grace, I think it leads to being able to do the exact same things in your sport,” said Mia Hernandez (11).
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Students visit the Friends of Rogers table at the Club Fair on Aug. 30.
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Principal Chip Greenwell is excited every day to work at Heritage.
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Volleyball games cause presure and tension on the court.
OPINION
To Allow or Not to Allow: Cell Phones in School
Clark Talon Editor
As phones have evolved technologically, so have the opinions of whether or not phones create a positive or negative impact onto the classroom. This has started the debate about the effect on the attention spans, grades and relationships of students.
When looking around, you can
pick out a solid number of people engaged on their phones. Because of this, fewer students are interacting in person. Instead of learning about others, we look them up online. Instead of branching out, our phone and social media apps are keeping us company. When in class, many students are choosing phone time instead of engagement in class. Instead of paying attention
and finishing assignments, we’re texting others or scrolling through media.
With the rise of Tiktok and Instagram reels, our attention spans are shortening and our motivation is depleting. When boredom arises, we are turning attention to such apps. We may think this is solving our boredom, but I believe it to have a negative impact on our en-
Crossword Puzzle
gagement. Tools such as socializing and our ability to be engaged are essential to succeeding in school, but our ability to apply these tools is becoming harder to use with the influence of our accessibility to phones. So the question is posed, should we, or should we not allow phones in school?
“When it comes to our school’s policies, I feel that it depends on the teacher. Most teachers don’t care about them normally, but they are away during tests. But, it also depends on the student and the class subject. There are students who are glued to their phones. Not talking much and in their own bubble, with their work ethic lacking. With students’ feelings and personal life, that has an effect on their usage. Sometimes students just need a break for a bit. I can see both sides personally. When dealing with my own personal life, I find myself on my phone more often during school” said Jayde Watson (12).
Another student shares their views on connecting online instead of human connection. “It’s harder to talk to others in person. It’s easier online to know who they are and their interests, as well as talking outside of school. Talking face to face is easier for some, harder for others,” said Lexi Engelberger (11).
Our phones are great for taking breaks, if used responsibly. Students can easily talk in and out of school more than ever. It does really depend on the specific student. Some have better control on their phone usage than others.
“My students are required to put their phones up in the phone pocket when entering the classroom. It’s hardly personal. When students do have their phones, it’s a constant distraction. They aren’t able to be fully engaged. Students need face to face. And when teaching, it makes it impossible to teach. It’s a constant thought in our minds. I don’t think any grade of students need their phones. There’s no reason to. Before phones, students had more self control in the classroom,” said social studies teacher Jennifer Richard.
Since the first day of school, she has been my only teacher with stricter policies when it comes to phones. Because accessibility is restricted in the classroom, there’s been a positive shift in engagement, grades, and learning. Not only do these policies benefit students, but also her ability to teach. Efficient learning is critical for success in our classes. When distractions are eliminated, this positively benefits us as students.
“If one parent decides [to not allow their student to have their phone in school], the student is seen differently. We need to make a decision as a community” said Mrs. Richard.
According to Principal Greenwell, the district Board of Education has been debating about implementing stricter phone policies within the schools. “Ultimately [we will] take our direction from the Board. I do believe it is helpful for students to know how to operate technology in 2024 respectfully. I think we’re getting state legislation this year on [phone policies].”
Clark
Students spend their mornings on their phones instead of interacting with other peers.
New Math Curriculum Causes Stress and Difficulties
Students and staff struggle to navigate
Pullen Talon Editor-in-Chief
For the first time in over 11 years, Rogers Public Schools has adapted a new curriculum for Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry courses, causing difficulties for students, especially for upperclassmen who haven’t learned with the curriculum before.
This year Arkansas state government requires that all school districts have a high quality instructional material (HQIM). The Rogers district examined the options for the new curriculum and decided that the best one is Open Up Resources, which is what students have been working with in their math classes since August. With this sudden change, even the teachers only got the workbooks roughly a month before students did, making them learn with us.
“This first year is a difficult concept to wrap my brain around because it is so differently set up than what I’m used to,” said algebra teacher Jami Bice. “From what I have seen so far, it circles through and shows you the process on how to get from one [skill] to the other, and as I’m going through the [lessons] to come, I see that what we’re doing [now] is going to make some of that easier.”
Another huge struggle with this change is students like myself midway through high school having to adjust to this new curriculum. The only students who truly aren’t affected by this are students in Algebra 1, since this is a fresh start to math for them. However, students in Geometry and Algebra 2 are expected to follow a brand new way of learning in a program that assumes
you’ve been taught this way before.
“[The curriculum] circles through Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2, and some of us [are] starting in Algebra 2. They’re referring back to things you learned in Algebra 1 [with] their curriculum and [these students] didn’t have that exact learning,” said Bice. “I see a struggle with upperclassmen because I know there are gaps [in the way they were taught previously compared to this new way].”
Having to adjust to this new way of learning while dealing with other classes like AP courses and extracurriculars makes life a lot harder on students.
“I’ve been struggling because [this isn’t the] way I’ve done math through all my years of schooling. This [new curriculum] really transformed [math for me] and it’s hard because I started doing five college courses, and managing all those higher level classes, as well as this class, I wasn’t expecting it to be this hard,” said Presli Sickels (11). “I’ve cried multiple times, and I just feel kind of defeated, but I’ve learned to adapt to this new way of learning.”
Rachel Royal, the math academic coach at Heritage, says that the administration predicted some students would struggle with the change.
“We knew coming in that that was going to be an [issue], and so we talked to teachers to have what we call pull-outs, which are meetings where we look at what’s coming and also look at support [strategies] that teachers can do to help you [succeed],” said Royal. “This curriculum is new to us too, so we’re having to work through it and see how it goes, and every year will get better. But we’re trying our best to do what we can to help bridge some of those gaps.”
I think introducing this curriculum to students so abruptly was not helpful to our academic success. However, I do believe that with time and patience this new curriculum will become easier to comprehend.
Students Struggle to Maintain Grades
Garcia Talon Reporter
Students at Heritage are finding it difficult to maintain their grades, causing them to work harder to keep them up.
Whether it’s your parents, or teachers, or even colleges you might want to be accepted into, grades are very important. The problem is that students today are not focused in class like they should be. However there are a lot of strategies that could help students feel less helpless and overwhelmed by grades.
“[Grades] determine what classes you get and if you have failing grades, colleges aren’t gonna look at you as much as they would someone with good grades,’’ said Kimberly Pineda (11).
Pineda maintains her grades despite the fact she has two jobs. Her strategies to keep her grades in check are using her resources
like Eagle Period and lunch time to finish any work she is missing. Her statement highlights the importance of keeping good grades for future opportunities in higher education. Recognizing this can help students to prioritize academic achievement.
“One thing I do is I send Remind texts about assignments that are due. I also give assignment calendars in advance that show assignments and major grades that are coming up at the beginning of every month,” said English teacher Kim Shepard.
Shepard’s approach shows a few helpful ways teachers can help students stay organized and informed. Such proactive measures can significantly enhance student performance to keep up the streak of having good grades. Along with this, having a personal planner to keep track of upcoming assignments or tests could help students not feel overwhelmed. Another strategy is setting time aside in the week to study and complete assignments.
When asked about possible strategies, math teacher Joanna Kosik said, “Note cards are always handy because you can bring those anywhere and quiz yourself. Sometimes re-reading or re-writing something always helps me.”
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Student recreates what their desk looks like with their daily work load.
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Students demonstrate using Open Up Resources workbook to learn mathematics.
Chappell Roan ‘Makes Waves’ at Walmart Amphitheater
Courtesy of Chappell Roan’s Instagram
Chappell Roan during her preformace at the Rogers AMP brings out the Razorback Cheer Team for her song “Hot To Go.”
Henry Talon Editor
Chappell Roan performed her Midwest Princess Tour concert at the Walmart AMP on October 2nd, which was attended by many Heritage students and teachers whom she’s had high impact on.
Chappell’s influence on today’s youth has inspired many, and with
her appearance at the Walmart AMP, she continues to spread across the world and use her platform for the greater good. In continuation, many fans gathered to sing and dance to popular songs such as ‘Hot To Go’ and ‘Pink Pony Club.’ As of now, while on the road for her Midwest Princess Tour, the AMP has actually been the largest crowd yet, amassing almost 11 thousand people. With this large number, it
doesn’t even compare to the highest amount she has had to attend a set of hers, with Lollapalooza having nearly 110,000 people, being the largest crowd in history since Lollapalooza opened in 1991. It is speculated that her crowds gain such a massive number because of the simple fact that she appeals to an audience that doesn’t have a lot of representation, and her music itself appeals to a demographic that
is so raw and real. Chappell’s music connects with fans on a personal level, and on a level that not everyone feels comfortable sharing but can relate to on their own.
“It was a really good, safe environment. Judgment free,” said Laney Sellers (11). With the amount of popularity Chappell has gained, it is known to all that she is considered a safe haven for anyone. This translates especially to members in our community that don’t feel a natural sense of belonging.
On a lighter, less personal note, concert attendees enjoyed commenting on the theme of the concert. As many know by now, the theme of the concert was mermaid. That is most notably inspired from the music video of ‘Casual.’ Now for most, they took the mermaid theme literally, wearing nets and seashells similar to Ariel. For a smaller demographic, some took it to a fun and campy road, with one duo being spotted in outfits from the popular show ‘Spongebob.’
“[My best friend] and I did dress up, and it was so much fun. We had such a great time,” said English teacher Sandy Cruz.
With Chappell’s loving yet rambunctious attitude, it can be said that she is loved by many for the simple reason that she acknowledges the fact that she is human, and is never afraid to speak up for the rights of her own being, and for the rights of marginalized communities.
“I like her beliefs and how loving she is,” said Sawyer Broach (11). Without a doubt, a massive reason as to why Chappell is as popular as she is now is due to the love and realness she puts into the world.
Creativity Flows Through This Year’s Spooky Season
Clark & Henry Talon Editors
Halloween, many people’s favorite holiday, has quickly come this year. Many people take this month to consider their costume ideas and express their creativity and skills. With the many movies that came out this year, there’s many options to take inspiration from. Heritage students are on the look out for thrilling and creative outfits to sport during this year’s Halloween holiday event.
Costume stores are popping up left and right, and with every Spirit Halloween, another Halloween fan regains their yearly joy. Beetlejuice 2, Deadpool and Wolverine, Inside Out 2 and Wicke are set to have a big impact on our costume decisions. Viewers are ready to begin dressing up in outfits customized to their favorite fictional or non-fictional characters.
We’re hoping students take this year’s opportunity to be creative, bold, and homemade! Embracing their individuality, or part of representing their group of friends or family.
“I think for sure the Wolverine and Deadpool movie is going to be inspirational, for both individual and group inspired costumes,” said Joseph Crowell (12).
Crowell is debating between
dressing up as Batman or the Flash this year, and he’s not the only one. Many students love superheroes and love picking their favorite to dress up as. With so many to choose from, including heroes from DC and Marvel, there’s a variety for people’s preferences. Including new superhero additions such as Deadpool and Wolverine with the recent movie coming out July of this year.
“I’m hoping to see group inspired costumes after BeetleJuice 2 and Inside Out. For family costumes
I think Bluey and Descendants [The Rise of Red] will be influential,” said CTE teacher Amy Woolsey. Halloween may be known as a celebration mostly meant for children who enjoy trick-or-treating and eating candy, but it’s for everyone! What some don’t notice is the spooky season is for more than just the youth, it branches out to adults as well. Halloween doesn’t have an age limit or certain look, it depends on the ideas of everyone participating.
“I hope to see creative and homemade costumes this year. I’d love to see how people interpret looks and adapt them to fit their style,” said librarian Bailey Sharp. With Halloween falling on a Thursday this school year, we hope students take this opportunity to bring themselves and their costumes to school. We hope to see everyone’s time and effort put into their creative costumes, and we hope you are excited as well. Happy Halloween to everyone!
Heritage Competition Dance Team Wins 1st in Division
Cox Talon Reporter
After securing first place at their recent competition in Alma, the varsity competition dance team is doubling down on training to prepare for upcoming events.
Led by Coach Symphony Lockard, the team is fine-tuning choreography, building stamina, and focusing on synchronization during daily practices. With high expectations following their early-season success, the dancers are determined
to maintain their momentum as they compete in several regional competitions throughout the fall. Their next challenge awaits in just a few weeks, to continue their winning streak and secure a spot at state finals.
Although practicing and preparing are the most important, the athletes on the team say that sleep helps them get their minds straight before a competition, allows them to focus better and there is no stopping them from being on point.
“I get enough sleep so I can do my hardest and give my best at
Tennis ‘24 Season Concludes
Perez Talon Reporter
Heritage’s tennis teams completed their 2024 season including winning three conference games despite having an inexperienced team, but even though the season is over the team continues to grow and improve.
The girls tennis team had nine seniors graduate from the previous year, leaving a very young and inexperienced team. This made them work extra hard to thrive this season. The girls won three out of eight matches this season with the three wins being conference wins.
When asked what moments were memorable from the season, Marin De Vera (9) said, “Finding out I was number one on the team as a freshman.”
The boy’s team won one out of 10 of their matches, but not having any senior players made this season difficult.
According to Coach Taylor Tinsley, Karl and Kaden Berry played #1 doubles all season long and were just two games away from qualifying for the state tournament.
“[Our girls and boys team] improved so much from the beginning of the season to the end. I [am] very proud of them,” said Tinsley.
Both boys and girls teams consisted mostly of freshmen with no prior experience, however they have improved drastically throughout this season and still managed to put up a challenge against the upperclassmen on other teams.
Next season they will improve much more due to the development of players’ mentality and physicality throughout this year and in the offseason.
“I won and lost some and I got to create new friendships along the way, but most importantly improved my mental and physical health,” said Mari Lavivanh (11).
With the improvement in the mental and physical health of the team’s players, it is shown through a social aspect. For several players, feeling prepared mentally is more than just knowing how to play, it is also knowing how to communicate with your teammates and coaches.
“My favorite part of the season was getting to know how to play tennis [and] getting [our] first win as a team. [Another part was] learning to have better teamwork [and] show more sportsmanship [along with] getting to bond with my coach and teammates,” said Isaiah Valdez (9).
Coach Tinsley expects that most of this team will return next year, increasing the potential for a dominating team.
competitions,” said Alexis Davis (10).
Even though taking care of themselves physically and mentally is prioritized, the defending state champions do way more than dance and practice routines. Coach Lockard puts them through tough conditioning workouts to show them that becoming state champions again is not easy, everything is earned.
“We do lots of conditioning to make us sharper and stronger to make sure we win another state championship,” said Dayanara Andino (9).
The team is very prepared and they look forward to having a good season. Most of the dancers think they need to keep the same focus as the past three years since they know competition will be fierce.
“Our bigger struggle this year is to pursue a state championship even though we just won one. We still need to learn how to work that much harder to get another state championship because now everyone is after us and everyone wants to beat Heritage,” said Sydney Gaffney (11).
Lockard
Heritage competition dance team wins first place in the division for their Game Day dance routine on October 12.
Allred
Heritage girls tennis team perseveres through the season.
Carving Pumpkins
Photos and Story by Jordan
In October, families gather in their homes to carve pumpkins, transforming them into festive decorations. This tradition brings creativity and joy to the Halloween season.
To begin, collect the materials. This includes: a pumpkin (obviously), a knife, a marker or pencil, something to scoop with and finally a towel or tarp under the pumpkin to not make any mess.
Next, carefully cut off the top of the pumpkin, making sure not to remove too much or too little; getting the right balance is important for the best results.
Grab the scooping tool or a spoon to extract the pumpkin’s insides and. Scrape out all the seeds and guts until the inside is clean.
Now carve the design into the pumpkin with a serrated knife. It may be difficult, but the end result will be worth it.
When asked what the hardest part of carving a pumpkin was, Melvin Hernandez Sosa (10) said, “Just doing it in general, like the carving.”
Use a pencil or a marker to draw the design you want to carve into the pumpkin; this is a rough guide so that the final design doesn’t get messed up.
