The Highlander
By: Magdalen Carlson
AFRICA MISSION TRIP
With passports in hand, a group of students from Highland Academy embarked on a life-changing mission trip to Kenya, eager to serve, learn, and immerse themselves in a new culture
For many, it was their first time traveling outside the country
Their journey consisted of three flights two of them lasting nine hours each followed by a very bumpy, six-hour car ride After an overnight stop, the students, staff, and parents on the trip finally arrived safely at Mara West, the resort where they would be staying for 10 days while doing their mission work
Throughout the week, the students dedicated their time to various projects Some laid bricks for a new dormitory at Kensington Hall Oloosinon Girls’ High School, while others gathered materials for making trusses for a new roof. Some worked at the women’s medical clinic, and still others led Vacation Bible School (VBS) for the neighboring primary school
or assisting with other things One unnamed student even passed out after watching a tooth get pulled Meanwhile, at VBS, students built friendships with the children, teaching them English songs and sharing messages of God’s love through crafts and bible stories being acted out by the volunteers and teachers of the school The children especially enjoyed playing with balloons and the new soccer balls were a rare treat in their community, most use a paper bag as a ball
According to Dustin Aho, co-founder of Africa Mission Services and coordinator of the mission projects, Students’ teamwork significantly accelerated construction progress and helped prepare for the next group projects Aho, who also hosted the group at Mara West, guided them through local customs and cultural etiquette It was a highlight to be able to drive through the Maasai Mara National Reserve on Sabbath, seeing Elephants, Giraffes, Hippos, Lions and Jaguar just to name a few It was a full day with the group leaving camp at 6am and returning just after sundown
Fawn Ndanyi, a senior at Highland Academy, said that her favorite part of the trip, besides much needed rest poolside, was “working with Rhiana [Powers] on the worksite ” While building, painting, and tying rebar, they worked alongside local laborers, picking up bits of the language as they worked and forming connections Many students particularly enjoyed working with Gilbert, the man in charge of rebar, who shared jokes and cultural insights with them throughout their stay
At the clinic, students assisted in different areas, though only girls were allowed to help with ultrasounds and births due to the sensitive nature During their stay, around five babies were born, and several students had the unforgettable experience of witnessing and even assisting in these moments some moved to tears by the beauty of it One or two Highland Academy students would occasionally work with the local dentist helping pull teeth
Editor In-Chief
Magdalen Carlson
Reporters
Addison Atlee
Shiloh Bushey
Bertin Shyaka
Stephanie Silva
Design & Art Director
Tristan Naumann
Photographer
Miguel Bittencourt
Sponsors
Stephanie Rufo
Melissa Weisner
With all the work site jobs complete, the group was given a full day of rest before heading back to the chaos of school and work and the long flights ahead A few people went on a small hike to see a beautiful fig tree, where the baboons typically hang out, while others laid around or played darts by the pool Lunch was handmade pizza served by the pool which everyone was very thankful for The day before, the chef served the group their traditional Kenyan food, immersing the students in the culture, which included lamb, goat, rice cakes, irio, baked bananas and spicy peppers On their way to the airport, the group made a final stop at a shopping mall in Nairobi where they explored local stores and markets, bringing home not just souvenirs, but lifelong memories of their time in Kenya The students left to make an impact on the people of Kenya, but in reality, the people of Kenya make a lasting impact on Highland Academy’s students
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HIGHLAND CELL PHONE POLICY? The Highlander
By: Bertin Shyaka
Highland Academy is reviewing its cell phone policy to encourage student engagement, academic success, and meaningful social interactions. While many Adventist schools have implemented stricter mobile device regulations, Highland Academy takes a balanced approach by gathering input from students, faculty, and parents before making final decisions.
The initiative stems from growing concerns among educators, parents, and mental health professionals regarding the impact of excessive phone use on students. Members of Generation Z, often labeled as “Techo-kids,” have grown up immersed in digital devices and social media. While this has made them technologically adept, research indicates it has also contributed to social insecurity, a preference for screens over relationships, and an inability to self-regulate phone use leading to addictive behaviors.
Mrs. Johnson, Highland Academy’s school psychologist and Director of Student Success/Hope Squad, compares phone addiction to cigarette use in past generations. “Phones are designed to be addictive, serving as numbing mechanisms, much like alcohol or drugs,” she explained. When students choose their devices over social engagement and critical work such as homework,
device usage and addictive behaviors grows into a much needed conversation “We can’t expect teens to regulate their use when billion-dollar industries are working against them. Setting limits isn’t weakness—it’s strength.” Beyond addiction concerns, faculty members and researchers have highlighted the darker aspects of digital dependence. Increased exposure to adult content and online predators has become a major threat to Gen Z’s emotional and spiritual well-being.
Reports indicate a sharp rise in criminal activity, including pedophilia, facilitated by social media. Predators disguise themselves as teenagers to lure students into inappropriate conversations and image sharing leading to devastating consequences. These encounters endanger physical safety and corrode moral values, distancing youth from faith and parental guidance.
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The Highlander
LONELINESS IN YOUNG ADULTS
By: Shiloh Bushey Mental Health
We have all been there coming home from a rough day at school or work feeling as though you have no one to talk to A common misconception about loneliness is that you have to be alone to feel it However, that couldn’t be further from the truth You can have many friends and still feel alone You only begin to grow out of this by surrounding yourself with people who respect and listen to you Your responsibility is to be open and honest with those friends you have chosen Defeating loneliness is a two-way street
Loneliness can feel like being detached from reality. Those battling loneliness often report they have no one to talk to and feel isolated from the rest of the world This applies to anyone who feels lonely As previously mentioned, you don’t have to be alone to feel alone You can talk to many people throughout the day, laugh at jokes, and share experiences, yet still feel lonely. Being surrounded by those who make you feel judged creates a fear of opening up causing you to guard yourself and eventually isolating one’s true self and not being authentic.
There are many side effects of isolation. Struggling with eating habits is common Not eating enough, eating too much, and not eating nutritious foods are challenges many face The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds states, “emotional overeating, excessive drinking, smoking, or drug misuse behaviors, which may serve as a means to soothe unbearable feelings of isolation. These have medical consequences such as obesity, high cholesterol, known consequences of tobacco use (high blood pressure, cancer risk), possible addiction.”
Those who feel lonely are at a higher risk for suicide Samaritans’ “Loneliness, Suicide, and Young People” reported, “In 2017, 1,588 young people under 35 in the UK took their own lives But suicide is preventable, and no young person should ever get to the point where they feel they have no option but to take their own life
To protect future generations, it’s critical that we improve our understanding of why this is happening and what we can do about it ” The emotional fallout of loneliness, which can cause depression and anxiety, increases the risk of suicide and self-harm
There are preventative actions we can all take Including others is vital Taking the initiative to reach out and be kind to someone can have a lasting impact If one feels he or she can be authentic and accepted because of your kindness, you have made an impact No one’s loneliness looks the same Loneliness is feeling alone even when surrounded by others.
You can overcome loneliness Start by being satisfied with God’s presence alone, then work up to enjoying your own presence Getting a pet can also help A pet that loves you unconditionally can change your whole world Take time to care for yourself Remembering to practice basic self-care to maintain a healthy body can give your mind the extra boost it needs to get through this season of your life Try therapy, whether it’s with a professional, a trusted friend, or a parent or adult figure you look up to Seeing your situation from an outside perspective can expand your understanding beyond the hurt you constantly feel. Take a chance on being real with someone you find trustworthy Only when you are authentically you, do you feel accepted Making new connections can change how you view yourself, providing comfort and happiness
The Highlander DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER
On Sunday, March 2, the Student Association's formal banquet took place at the Historical Arcade in Lebanon Square The event's theme, “Diamonds Are Forever,” was inspired by the iconic James Bond spy movies a nod to the action-packed, suave world that Highland students love Junior Carson Watkins, a member of the SA, pitched the idea to the group, driven by his passion for the Bond franchise and its timeless appeal
The black-tie dress code, a nod to the world of spies, became an appreciated change for the guys. For many, it was an opportunity to step up their fashion game no longer just the usual suit, but embracing the chance to play "secret agent" in stylish tuxedos The girls, on the other hand, faced a tougher challenge Finding dresses that balanced both the theme and the banquet's formal dress code was a struggle, leading to ongoing discussions about potentially loosening the dress code in future years Despite the difficulty, the girls pulled through with beautiful dresses that adhered to the dress code and added to the event's overall chic vibe.
Savanna Jackson kept the theme alive with a performance of Secret Agent Man, a classic by Johnny Rivers, that hit all the right notes for the spy-themed evening Genrickh Semanivskyy returned to the stage, this time with his classical guitar and earned first place To close out the talent show, Carson Watkins, Elijah Labrenze, and Sam Dennis performed When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars, a heartfelt song that had everyone singing along
Upon arrival at the Historical Arcade, students were buzzing about the venue's vintage charm, texting one another and heading straight for the photo booth but were redirected upstairs to their tables, where they joined friends and dates The evening kicked off with a delicious spread of pasta, salad, and dessert After eating, students made their way back to the photo booth to capture memories, using props like fake money, pink hats, masquerade masks, and gold money hats favorites that had everyone in high spirits
As the evening drew to a close, students were given the chance to explore Lebanon Square, capturing the last moments of the night in photos with friends and dates for social media and to send to their parents Some of the night’s highlights included snatching crowns from the nearby Burger King and passing them around, chatting with friends, and hearing their favorite songs performed by classmates For some seniors, it was bittersweet, as this was their final banquet They expressed they would miss the event, while others were relieved not to have to spend money on a banquet outfit they’d never wear again
In the end, the SA formal banquet wasn’t just a night of music, food, and games it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the ever-evolving pulse of our generation It was a night where students embraced their inner spies, their musical talents, and their shared moments together, creating memories that will last long after the final song ends
By: Bertin Shyaka
The Highlander
SPREAD THE WORD
Highland Academy students are spiritually impacting Kentucky-Tennessee Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) churches through the Spread the Word initiative. This program allows students to lead entire church services The outreach encourages students to share their testimonies, talents, and experiences while strengthening their faith and leadership skills
opportunities to reach different congregations Students lead worship, share testimonies, perform special music, and preach sermons.
Planning for Spread the Word ensures inclusivity, addressing challenges such as multilingual presentations Students gain hands-on experience in church leadership and develop public speaking, storytelling, and musical skills The response from churches has been overwhelmingly positive Congregations express appreciation, often asking, “How soon can you come back?”
Rufo emphasized the program’s significance saying “It fosters spiritual growth, boosts confidence, and strengthens students’ connections with the church ” She highlighted a proud moment when a shy student delivered a powerful testimony, impacting the congregation.
The Spread the Word initiative fosters spiritual growth among students, boosts confidence, and strengthens their connection with the church communities that Highland Academy serves It also helps churches engage with young leaders and witness their enthusiasm for ministry Highland Academy students, supported by staff and local pastors, participate in this initiative again this semester on February 22, 2025 Leaders include Mrs Lilly Lopez, math teacher, Ms Markie Bazzy, English teacher, Mrs Stephanie Rufo, recruitment coordinator, Pastor Roger Schmidt, history teacher, Mr Larry Ashcraft, science teacher, and Pastor Will Labrenz, chaplain and Bible teacher
This year, groups visited several churches, including: Maranatha Spanish SDA Church (Jackson, TN) – Led by Mrs Lilly Lopez and Ms Markie Bazzy Hendersonville SDA Church (Hendersonville, TN) –Led by Mrs Stephanie Rufo and Pastor Roger Schmidt, Dickson SDA Church (Dickson, TN) – Led by Mr. Larry Ashcraft. White House SDA Church (White House, TN) – Led by Pastor Will Labrenz
Bazzy underscored the importance of students experiencing different church communities Reflecting on the service at Maranatha Spanish SDA Church, she recalled that “Otto preached in Spanish, and although I had no idea what he was saying, the church responded with hearty ‘amens ’ That showed me God can use teens to preach the message.”
student-led services Selection criteria include community needs, diversity in participation, and
Ashcraft praised Zariah Hamilton, senior, for leading spontaneous worship after a service inspiring other students to join in song. He described the church members’ reaction as deeply moved, saying, “I’m sure they saw it as a refreshing change from routine ”
Senior, Stephanie Silva, who visited Maranatha Spanish SDA Church, shared how the experience strengthened her faith saying “Participating in the church has helped me feel closer to God and more dependent on Him because everything I’m doing is for His glory ”
The Spread the Word initiative inspires students and churches, bridging generations and strengthening community relationships. With church members eager for future visits, Highland Academy remains committed to empowering students in ministry
If your church would like to be visited by a Spread the Word team, please reach out to Stephanie Rufo, the Director of Marketing and Communications for more information and scheduling for the coming semesters
The initiative involves strategic collaboration with local pastors to identify congregations open to
The Highlander NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
By: Bertin Shyaka
The National Honor Society (NHS) at Highland Academy recently inducted new members in a formal ceremony, which took place during Friday night vespers on February 21, 2025 The ceremony was for recognizing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character
The ceremony featured speeches from NHS officers and school administrators, the formal induction of new members, and a reception The event included the traditional candle lighting by the officers, symbolizing NHS's four core values, and the recitation of the NHS Pledge by all inductees lead by NHS president, Emma Ruckle
A previous member of the Highland Academy chapter of the National Honor Society, coach Stephen Rogers, presented the challenge to new and existing members alike He spoke of the Christ-like character we all should be developing, servant leadership as demonstrated in scripture by Jesus, how Jesus served others and how we are to follow his ultimate example, and learning, being lifelong learners as our motto here at Highland Academy. This year’s NHS officers include President Emma Ruckle, Vice President Sara Scott, Secretary/Treasurer Nora Stevens, Pastor Otto Del Toro, and Community Service Coordinator Savanna Jackson
New induc ls. Seniors inducted uko, Fawn Ndanyi, Genrikh Semanivskyy, and Bertin Shyaka Junior inductees included Katie Beaumont, Neveah Cano, Seth Gagatam, Luke Henry, Corinthia Lopez, Caitlin Murrell, and Ana Simplice Sophomores inducted were Magdalen Carlson, Ellie Cortez, Dwayne Duncombe, Kaleb Galloway, Ethan Johnson, Lyla Litchfield, Lucas Mills, Emmett Stevens, Tessa Wade, and Jasmine Warren
Fawn Ndanyi, senior class president, expressed gratitude for her parents' encouragement saying, "I appreciate my parents, who encouraged me to aim for excellence " She recalled a meaningful NHS event where members organized a food drive that she participated in and spent the day in the community gathering food to feed those in need After gathering food they helped organize food items in the gym. Ndanyi described the event as “pretty fun” and looks forward to more service opportunities
Seth Gagatam, a junior involved in bells, band, drama class, and intramural sports, joined NHS as a personal achievement for himself and his parents He said, "It was just an achievement my parents and I wanted to make," adding that he enjoys serving others, including his participation in a mission trip to the Philippines. Outside of school, he has a passion for reading, storytelling, animation, and video game design
Reflecting on his educational journey, Gagatam credited his parents as his greatest influence. “They have been with me since the beginning I was homeschooled at first and they have guided me in my learning experience," he said. Looking ahead, he hopes to contribute to the Highland Academy chapter of NHS by serving in any capacity needed and by demonstrating Christ-like leadership on campus and off.
The National Honor Society provides students with recognition, scholarship opportunities, leadership development, and a boost for college applications Membership requires maintaining a high GPA, demonstrating leadership in one’s sphere of influence, engaging in community service, and exhibiting strong character.
The Highlander
CRAZY WEATHER IN PORTLAND
By: Shiloh Bushey
PORTLAND, Tenn Heavy rain on Feb 16, 2025, led to severe flooding in Portland, affecting residents across the area Early that Sunday morning, around 4 a.m., Portland police responded to a call about a civilian trapped on top of her car as floodwaters rose Officers successfully rescued the woman, who was unharmed. However, police determined she was under the influence and arrested her on a DUI charge She was taken into custody, while her vehicle remained in the floodwaters until it could be safely retrieved.
Just days later, on Feb. 19, another storm brought snow and ice, making road conditions hazardous while many still wrestled with the effects of the flooding While some residents stayed home, others ventured out despite the risks Among them was David Fosbinder, who lost control of his vehicle on an icy road and crashed into a concrete structure in the driveway of a student, flipping his car upside down
Witnesses, including Shiloh Bushey, a senior at Highland Academy, Michael Bushey, a freshman at Highland Academy and Brently Phelps, also a freshman, saw the crash happen in front of the Bushey residence. “We woke up, I checked my phone, and looked outside to see if it snowed There was quite a bit I then went to my room to wake up Brently and told him there was no snow just to mess with him. He got up, and we both went to the window in the living room to look at the snow and boom, this red truck hit the culvert and flipped upside down” Michael Bushey said”
“Instantly I ran to put on shoes, and went outside to see if the man was okay. By the time we got out there, he was already out of the car We asked him if he needed our help, and we then went to retrieve his phone, wallet, and keys Then my sister came out of the house with 911 on the line and let him talk to the operator while I went to grab him a chair.” The students stayed with the man until EMS came Phelps stated,
“At first I thought he hit a trash can, but he was upside down and he hurt his back, so we got him a chair ” The man appreciated all of the help the students provided. “I have broken my L1 bone in my spine, so it will be a while before I’m mobile again,” Fosbinder said “A big thank-you to the EMS team who responded quickly and effectively ” Fosbinder also expressed his sincere appreciation to the Highland Academy students for the care they offered him as they waited on EMS to arrive He said they did everything right, getting him out of the vehicle, calling 911, and keeping him talking while waiting
Spirit Week
March 31-April 4
The Highlander
HIGHLAND CELL PHONE POLICY?..
By: Bertin Shyaka
Faculty members at Highland Academy have observed a shift in student behavior directly linked to smartphone use Studies show the average American teenager spends over seven hours daily on screens outside of schoolwork Faculty have observed that Highland students often retreat to their phones instead of engaging with peers, raising concerns about their interpersonal development, academic focus, and spiritual engagement. Even in spaces created specifically for social interaction, one often sees students on their phones rather than taking advantage of social interactions.
Highland Academy’s administration is evaluating policies implemented by other Adventist schools to address these issues Institutions such as Mount Pisgah Academy and Fletcher Academy have enforced stricter phone regulations, allowing only call-and-text devices These schools report improved student participation in extracurricular activities, better mental health, and stronger relationships.
While Highland Academy acknowledges the benefits of technology, faculty members emphasize the importance of moderation.
Excessive screen time has been linked to disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, and decreased attention spans. Johnson warns that unchecked phone use can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms “It’s easy to numb with a screen,” she said, “but when life gets hard, students need real connections not just a digital escape If we don’t address this now, we risk raising a generation that turns to their phones instead of prayer, conversation, or meaningful community.”
Principal Watkins stresses the importance of collaboration in decision-making “This isn’t about control it’s about intention,” he said “We don’t want this to be a top-down decision We’re working with students, parents, and faculty to find a solution that aligns with our school’s mission” of developing Christ-like characters and life-long learners
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Parental input remains a key factor. While some parents advocate for stricter phone regulations, others worry about limited access to their children during the day. The administration is working to balance student well-being and reasonable communication. No final decision has been made, but Highland Academy remains committed to fostering an environment where students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. The goal is not to eliminate technology but to ensure it serves as a tool for growth rather than a distraction from real-life engagement.
As discussions continue, the administration encourages students, parents, and faculty to share their perspectives to ensure any adjustments reflect the school’s core values of faith, community, and personal responsibility
Student leaders from the National Honor Society, Hope Squad, and Student Council actively participate in the discussions, proposing solutions that maintain parental contact while fostering in-person interactions. Suggestions included:
“Disconnect Days” on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays – Restricting phone use during school hours to encourage face-to-face interactions.
Storing phones overnight in dorm cubbies – Reducing late-night screen time and improving sleep quality.
Phone-free times during church-related activities – Reinforcing spiritual engagement.
Alternative engagement strategies – Implementing board games, puzzle stations, and structured social activities to promote real-life connections.
In addition to potential policy changes, the administration is considering educational workshops on digital well-being, time management, and responsible technology use.