JagWire: Volume 18, Back to School Issue

JAGWIRE NEWSMAGAZINE

MILL VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL // VOL. 18 // BTS ISSUE // AUG. 16, 2017 // MVNEWS.ORG

02

CONTENTS

Design by Victoria Wright

Cover by Victoria Wright

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

04

10

11

23

18

NEWS

OPINIONS

A&E

04 event timeline 06 student council 07 Mill Valley history

03 staff ed 15 freshman advice

20 backpack essentials 22 useful apps 23 fashion trends

FEATURES

SPORTS

PHOTO ESSAY

08 10 11 12

18 student section

24 scavenger hunt

office staff clubs unique staff rooms map

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Design by Victoria Wright

STAFF

03

WELCOME, CLASS OF 2021 The JagWire staff wants students to know Mill Valley is an environment where anyone can thrive

JAGWIRE OFFICE 5900 Monticello Road Shawnee, KS 66226 Phone: (913) 422-4351 Fax: (913) 422-4039 Email: jagwirenewspaper@gmail.com Adviser: Kathy Habiger khabiger@usd232.org JagWire, a monthly publication of Mill Valley High School, is printed by the Sedalia Democrat.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

C

lass of 2021, as you head into the main hallway on your first day of high school, take in as much of the scenery as possible. From the jaguar statue that students rub for good luck to the welcoming staff members that stand in front of the counseling office every morning, Mill Valley is unique in a number of ways.

There are numerous opportunities to get involved and meet new people. Every effort you give to any organization is ultimately a contribution to the school. Think about what impact you want to leave; give it your all and work hard over the next four years to improve Mill Valley.

However, your high school experience isn’t only about what you can offer others; it’s also about what you can gain from our one-of-a-kind environment. Use this time to figure out what your interests are and devel-

op skills in those areas. With such a massive amount of opportunities, there’s a very high chance you’ll find something you’re passionate about.

Even if you choose not to participate in extracurriculars, being included in the community is as easy as getting to know the great staff and befriending them. After all, you spend a majority of your school day with teachers who are not only great educators, but also kind, caring individuals who only have your best interest at heart.

Overall, this school is one of the most amazing places to shape your mind as you go through your high school years. Take advantage of the amazing staff, classes and opportunities we offer and get to know some of your new classmates. On behalf of all returning students: welcome to Mill Valley, class of 2021.

JAGWIRE 2017-18 staff EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Alison Booth Nora Lucas Victoria Wright

MANAGING EDITOR Claire Boone

COPY EDITOR Anika Roy

DESIGN EDITOR Annie Myers

PHOTO EDITORS Hunter Ristau Marah Shulda

BUSINESS MANAGER Hunter Ristau

MILL VALLEY NEWS EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

Jakob Twigg

Tricia Drumm Morgan Gurwell Ally Nguyen

FEATURES EDITOR

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

NEWS EDITOR

Annie Myers

A&E EDITOR Abby Layton

OPINIONS EDITOR Ally Nguyen

SPORTS EDITORS Katya Gillig Chris Sprenger

Lexi Flipse

REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS James Ball Drake Brizendine Elizabeth Joseph Carter Lawson Jordan Robinson Michael Sandri Andrew Tow

Kansas Scholastic Press Association National Scholastic Press Association Journalism Education Association The 2016 JagWire was named a Pacemaker winner and an All-American newspaper by the NSPA, was inducted into the NSPA Hall of Fame and earned an All-Kansas rating from the KSPA. The Mill Valley News website was also named a two-time Pacemaker winner by the NSPA.

SOCIAL MEDIA Twitter: @millvalleynews Facebook: Mill Valley News

CENSORSHIP POLICY

Kansas Senate Bill 62 guarantees the same rights for student journalists as are guaranteed for professional journalists. These rights include, but are not limited to, all First Amendment rights, including the rights of freedom of speech and the press, insofar as published items may not contain libelous, slanderous or obscene statements, may not incite or promote illegal conduct and may not cause a substantial disruption to normal school activity.

EDITORIAL POLICY We value your opinions. If you wish to submit a column or a letter to the editor for the JagWire, you can do so by handing it in to a member of the staff or to the print journalism room (C101). Additionally, you may email any member of the staff with opinions, as well as tweet us at @millvalleynews.

Anonymous content will not be accepted.

Please understand that we have the right to edit all copy that runs in this publication.

rientati 16, 2016 on , sophom senior Cori Ca on August r ore Ash Sophie lyn Dem ver helps Rosen psey. //

JagWire

FOOTBA LL B E G INS While c arrying

HOMEC OMING

While d e Sept. 14 corating the d ra , enjoys th 2016, senior M ma float on a Annie M e homecomin son Cole g parad yers e. //

the ball sophom u o his arm re Cameron Y p field, ou out to a Sept. 30 void the ng puts , 2016. // d Victoria efense on Wright

MAKEA GAME N-WISH Posing IGHT for

a pictur een Ma e at th ke Oct. 27, -A-Wish game e Hallow2016, se n likes all nior All ight on \ ie th “feel go e work that s Harvey o h we’re d d [about] every e is doing, oin thing th Wish.” s g is going to Make-A at aid Har vey and you’re d o “E // Ally N ing has a purp verything ose.” guyen

NOVEM BER

FRESHM ORIENT AN ATION At fresh man o

“

Mill Valley High School

Design by Nora Lucas and Annie Myers

AUGUS T

NEWS

SEPTEM BER

04

CATTY SHACK O PENS Students li

the Catt ne up to buy y c Nov. 4, Shack’s grand ookies at 2016. // James B opening on all

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Listen to the stereotypical advice of getting involved because it is so amazing. Sophomore year I got super involved and I had the best year ever; I had such a blast.

JUNIOR LAUREN ROTHGEB

”

NEWS

Mill Valley High School

05

THE FIRST SEMESTER

OCTOB ER

JagWire

An event guide for your first four months MICHAEL SANDRI

BAND C ONTEST Playing a S ing festi t the Emporia State m val on

reporter/photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

MUSICA L

During a musica dress rehearsa l Hello Dolly se l of the Stewart nio Natalie and graduated r Simon C s Stewart arrera look at enior e e musica njoys particip ach other, l “b ati see all y ecause you fi ng in the our har n d work ally get to // Sophie pay off.”

Rosen

“

POWDE RPUFF During the pow gam der

puff fo e No Postlew v. 7, 2016, senio otball ait bock r Mikala . // Nora s Lucas her opponent.

DECEM BER

Oct. 5, 2 archDakota 01 W going re ilson compete 6, senior s, “I thin ally well putting . Everyo k it’s in it’s payin a lot of effor ne’s been t, and I g off.” // think Annie M yers

FINALS

Sophom o Aubrey res Taylor Za rda and Hoffste tte English class la r study in the s ir is in De cember. t year. Finals w ee // Kriste n Garre k tt

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Settle down, high school isn’t what you thought it would be, it’s not all that bad. It’s really fun and you get to meet a lot of great people.

JUNIOR TANNER MOORE

”

06

NEWS

Design by Lexi Flipse and Anika Roy

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

THE STUDENT BODY SCOOP Members and advisors encourage freshmen to participate in StuCo

Student body StuCo members share info about the club for freshmen

PRESIDENT “StuCo is really fun, we get a lot done, but it’s easy going.”

Expressing new ideas to a group of StuCo members and other students, senior class vice president Tyler Orbin participates in the StuCo open forum on March 7, 2017. //Margaret Mellott

ANIKA ROY

copy editor jagwire.anikaroy@gmail.com

S

tuCo, which is already hard at work for the upcoming school year, is seeking freshman members. While representatives from the other classes were voted into office in May, freshmen wanting to run for one of eight available positions may do so within the first few weeks of the school year.

Advisor Erica Crist said that all information regarding the upcoming elections, “such as writing speeches [and] getting petitions” can be found in GL102.

Returning senior class vice president Tyler Orbin recommends joining the club because membership allows for more participation in activities.

“Getting involved your freshman year is important,” Orbin said. “StuCo is a great organization to help get you involved by helping out with school events.”

StuCo is responsible for planning various events throughout the year, including homecoming, freshman orientation, open mic nights and more.

For junior Lexi Knappen, working on such events is the best part of being a member.

“My favorite part of being on StuCo is getting to see the behind the scenes

“

of how events come together, to offer ideas and to see your ideas come alive in those activities,” Knappen said.

“Getting involved your freshman year is important.”

VICE PRESIDENT “My favorite part about StuCo is the leadership involved.”

SENIOR TYLER ORBIN

While many students choose not to run for a position in fear of reciting a speech to their classmates, Crist suggests giving it a chance.

“I say just go for it and if you don’t get in, you can just chalk it up as a learning experience,” Crist said.

Regardless of being a StuCo member or not, there is opportunity for every student’s opinion to be heard, according to Knappen.

“We ask for a lot of input from the student body,” Knappen said. You don’t have to be in StuCo to vote in a twitter poll or come and give us an idea.”

Although the group is not yet complete, Orbin believes it has the potential to do great things this year based on the work already being done.

“Student Council is going so amazing this year,” Orbin said. “I think it’s going to be a really successful year.”

TREASURER “Go for StuCo. Public speaking gets easier I promise.”

SECRETARY “Stuco ... brings the different aspects of the school together.”

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMEN SELF? Everyone here is really nice and it’s easy to make friends and talk to people. Don’t be too shy to say hi to someone.

SENIOR HALEY HARVEY

”

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Design by Alison Booth

inside the

VALLEY

quiz bowl

358

STATE CHAMPS

2000 2

337

1 , 360

6

728 642 BOYS GIRLS

journalism

1

boys basketball

353

freshmen sophomores juniors

312 * seniors

teacher to student ratio of

6:100

student population of *

FALL of

football

700 hot lunches sold on average per day^ ^provided by cashier Felicia Hakes

6

outside facilities on campus

as of Aug. 2, 2017 *information WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN?

“

07

A compilation of statistics about Mill Valley and its students provided by registrar Deana Thom

established in

2

NEWS

Meet as [many] upperclassmen as you can; they can sometimes be good people and good friends.

SENIOR JUSTIN GREGA

”

08

FEATURES

Mill Valley High School

Design by Claire Boone and Tricia Drumm

OFFICE OFFICIALS

JagWire

A guide to the main office staff and student counselors

MAIN OFFICE

The secretaries of the main office in accordance to where they sit EDIE WAYE SECRETARY During passing periods, secretary Edie Waye’s voice floods the halls with announcements over the intercom. Waye is the secretary to see if a student is called down to the office for a dropped off item or a pass to leave class.// Jakob Twigg

“I am the first person to answer the phone, [and] I do all of the announcements. I am secretary to four principals, 1,360 kids and their parents. ... I try to get them to the right place.”

“

LYNN BATH ATHLETIC SECRETARY

AMY SANDERS ATTENDANCE SECRETARY

Because she’s the first face that visitors see when entering the building, athletic secretary Lynn Bath gives a warm smile. Bath also works closely with athletic director Jerald VanRheen to manage all details regarding sports. // Morgan Gurwell

Whether arriving late or leaving early, students need to sign in or out with attendance secretary Amy Sanders. When calling a student in as late or absent, parents should speak with Sanders as early as possible on the day of absence. // Jakob Twigg

“[I am] part of the front desk team for any parents that come in or students that come in, but mostly I work with our [athletic director] and take care of the physicals that kids turn in to play a sport, rosters, officials. ”

“I am the attendance secretary. That entails all the kids that are called in sick, or need to leave for an appointment, or come in late. I keep track of where kids are all day.”

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT FRESHMEN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MILL VALLEY? We have a lot of pride in our school, not just for sports, but for academics.

SENIOR LUKE GUILFORD

”

JagWire

FEATURES

Mill Valley High School

HERE TO HELP

ABBY LAYTON

A&E editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

COUNSELING OFFICE

The counselors are divided by student last names TRISH CHANDLER COUNSELOR FOR A-E

Two important student resources share their responsibilities and how they are available to help

ERIN HAYES COUNSELOR FOR F-K

For counselor Trish Chandler, the job goes beyond scheduling and testing. “Counselors are advocates for the students and resources for the teachers as well,” Chandler said. // Andrew Tow

In addition to counseling students, counselor Erin Hayes organizes incoming freshman night and helps organize the annual Relay for Life event. // Andrew Tow

“[If ] students are struggling with classes or personal things we are here to support students with whatever they are dealing with. I am in charge of ACT testing and the master schedule.”

“I coordinate all of the college board things, so I do all of the AP enrollment and testing. I also do the PSAT for sophomores and juniors. I help with Student Leadership Team.”

ELIZABETH MOLGREN COUNSELOR FOR L-RI

CHRIS WALLACE COUNSELOR FOR RO-Z

This is counselor Elizabeth Molgren’s first year in the district after counseling at Shawnee Mission East. "[I work with students] regarding academic planning, college planning, and any social needs that come up along the way,” Molgren said. // Andrew Tow

Counselor Chris Wallace’s job entails keeping up with students’ success in the classroom throughout the year. “[I] make sure they are doing the best they can academically throughout the school year,” Wallace said. // Andrew Tow

“Student ambassadors is something I’m pretty excited about.”

“[Our job is] working with students to make sure their schedules are set up correctly.”

“

09

“I am just here to make sure that the students have a safe place to work, they feel comfortable being here and safe, [but] I’m also here to take care of the teachers too.”

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER MO LORIDON

“Our biggest goal is trying to keep kids in school. ... I think it’s a good resource for the kids, between here and going home if they need something to make them feel better, or if they need a little rest.”

NURSE HEATHER VAN DYKE

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Find something that you love to do because then you’ll find people who like to do the same things as you.

SENIOR SENIOR JAZ SCHWEGMAN

”

10

FEATURES

Mill Valley High School

Design by Victoria Wright

editor-in-chief jagwire.alisonbooth@gmail.com

ELIZABETH JOSEPH

DEB A

reporter/photographer jagwire.elizabethjoseph@gmail.com

TE

FINDING A PLACE

ALISON BOOTH

Students are offered a plethera of activities to participate in

CLUBS

Band Cheer Choir Club 121 Creative Writing DECA/Caddie Shack Debate Forensics French National Honors Society Gay Straight Alliance International Thespian Society JagFlite JagPRIDE Literary Magazine Make-A-Wish Club Model United Nations MVHS Marine Biology Club MVHS Pep Club MV Lacrosse Club MV Outfitters MV Outreach MVTV MV TASK National Art Honors Society National English Honors Society National Honors Society Newspaper Political Debate Prom Committee Quiz Bowl Robotics Science Olympiad Silver Stars Skills USA Student Ambassadors Student Council Student Leadership Team Spanish National Honors Society Thespians Video Productions Yearbook Youth for Refugees

“

During debate camp on Monday, July 24, debate coach Annie Goodson discusses topics with students. // Victoria Wright

W

hile formulating an argument is a part of students’ everyday lives, the debate team takes analyzing controversial claims to the next level.

According to new debate coach Annie Goodson, recreational debate is an opportunity unique to high school students.

“I would classify debate as something like marching band; it’s something really cool that you only have a limited window to do,” Goodson said.

“It makes you think better, it makes you think faster, it makes you more comfortable sharing your opinion.”

Although Goodson recommends that students take the class to participate in tournaments, she is willing to let other students take part in class ac“Our main goal is to have all of the students informed on the dangers of drugs before they make a bad decision that could affect them for the rest of their life.”

JUNIOR PAIGE NENTWIG

JagWire

tivities.

“If you’re motivated and you can’t take the class, I’m open to finding a way in,” Goodson said. “If somebody wants to debate, I will let you debate.”

Senior Allison Winker has been on the debate team since her freshman year and said she has benefitted from the experience.

“You will develop skills that not a lot of people have, like public speaking, being more knowledgeable about the world and thinking on the spot,” Winker said.

On the other hand, sophomore Noah Hookstra is excited to undergo his first year on the team.

“It’s a great idea to have mental sparring partners and just expose yourself to other people’s ideas,” Hookstra said. “Steel sharpens steel; it only improves your ideas.”

Along with time spent practicing in class, Goodson expects students to put in work outside of school as well.

“We do a lot of worknights and practice debates once a week,” Goodson said. “You can stay after school three days a week and that’s really helpful to get newer competitors to interact with older competitors.”

Ultimately, Winker encourages new students to put themselves out there and join the program.

“Once you get the hang of it, it’s so much fun,” Winker said. “It’s such a good skill to be able to speak in front of people and to understand current problems that are happening in our country and the world.”

It’s officially a S.A.D.D. club — Students Against Destructive Decisions.

So, it’s to help kids think about healthy ways to cope with stress.

JAGPRIDE

SOCIAL WORKER DEBBIE GUDENKAUF

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Don’t fall down the stairs.

SENIOR TREY CALLAHAN

”

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Design by Morgan Gurwell and Elizabeth Joseph

FEATURES

11

WELCOME TO OUR CRIB Teachers’ unique classrooms provide a welcoming environment for students

TRICIA DRUMM

Mill Valley News editor-in-chief jagwire.triciadrumm@gmail.com

ENGLISH TEACHER KRISTEN CROSBIE: A201

“

“

Sitting in her director’s chair, english teacher Kristen Crosbie is surrounded by decorations and gifts from students. “All the thank you notes andthings I get from kids that make me feel good,” Crosbie said. // Marah Shulda

I think everything that’s up and on display is there for a reason.

Everything’s an argument, and I definitely think it is an argument about who I am and how much I care about my students.”

She has students put up or whatever they want on her walls, there’s a lot of funny stuff that gets up there. People put their past middle school student IDs and permits from driving from five years ago.”

ENGLISH TEACHER KRISTEN CROSBIE

SENIOR DANI CRISPIN

BAND TEACHER DEB STEINER: C120

“

Acoustically, when you build a band room, you never want to have a square room [so] it’s actually offset on the west wall a little bit.”

BAND TEACHER DEB STEINER

While sitting on a desk, science teacher Eric Thomas holds a snake. // Marah Shulda

DRAKE BRIZENDINE

reporter/photographer jagwire.drakebrizendine@gmail.com

SPECIAL STUDENT SPACES Students reflect on their favorite classrooms

“[I like the choir room because] I feel good, positive energy. It’s happy and good vibes.”

SOPHOMORE JADON TAYLOR

“Mr. Brown’s room [is my favorite].

It’s a friendly environment and there’s a lot of posters around.”

JUNIOR AMBRIA SHAWGER Band teacher Deb Steiner stands in front of a timpani drum. // Marah Shulda

SCIENCE TEACHER ERIC THOMAS: B130

“

The skeletal system mapping, the skeletons, the mannequins gives you a real life illustration.”

“My favorite is McAfee’s class.

We used to hang out with cross country kids before practice.”

SENIOR ANDREW KOFOID

SCIENCE TEACHER ERIC THOMAS

“

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? You have the choice of whether each day is great or not. Some days may be hard and some days may be great, but if you have the right attitude you can make every situation a good one.

JUNIOR TYLER JEANNERET

”

12

FEATURES

Mill Valley High School

Design by Annie Myers

JagWire

MICHAEL SANDRI

NAVIGATING

reporter/photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

A guide to the halls of Mill Valley brought to you by students and staff members

the

MAZE “

It’s very confusing, but you get the hang of it.

It is mostly where all of the electives are, so if you have any electives you will be in this hall a lot.”

“

SENIOR EMMA BARGE

It is used for hosting performances put on by the drama department, rehearsals, and sometimes used for club meetings.”

SENIOR LAURYN HURLEY

C-HALL

THEATER “

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMEN SELF? I wasn’t very cool back then and I was kind of shy so I would say to meet new people.

JUNIOR ZACH BOSSERT

”

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Photos by Carter Lawson & Drake Brizendine

FEATURES

13

“

It’s ... known for being on your toes. [Baseball] coach [Jeff] Strickland is known for throwing a tennis ball at you.”

“

SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER CHRIS MCAFEE

We try to get every freshman that comes in to enjoy some aspect of physical education, so that they can continue that through the rest of their life.”

PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER TRAVIS KEAL

A-HALL

“

The library is a good place to read, study or meet friends.”

MEDIA CENTER SPECIALIST ANDY SHELLY

GYM “

This part of the school has a little less foot traffic than you would see in A-hallway, but most of the same subjects.”

SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER IAN NICHOLS

MEDIA CENTER “

B-HALL

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Every day is different and there’s really no way to prepare for it, you just gotta dive head first.

JUNIOR ADELE WARFORD

”

14

ADS

Design by Hunter Ristau

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Design by Ally Nguyen

OPINIONS

15

@justinmcurto: “Be nice to your teachers — Mill Valley has some of the best. They want to support you, and you’ll need them, even if you don’t see how yet. Also, they’re really fun people to get to know!” // @kendall_gaignat: “Get involved in school. You make so many new friends and create great memories. It makes high school so much better. Also, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself academically and try new things.” // @aaron_middaugh: “Make sure when turning in textbooks you have the barcodes out and ready to be scanned.

You don’t want to face the wrath of Ms. Thom.” // @_mariana_cruz: “Make sure to dry the bottom of your shoes on the entrance mats before attempting the main staircase on a rainy day.” // @Tom_mccl: “Pick an extracurricular you love and fully commit to it. Give it four years of your best effort.” // @hellabadden: “Join the

cross country team. You don’t have to be fast to go far. All you need is a positive attitude!” // @marg_margy: “If you’re ever running late to class or trying to leave before everyone else and you’re near the activities entrance, just cut through the gym.” // @brooke_carson99: “Go to the games, go to the plays, try out for sports, get involved with clubs, JUST STAY INVOLVED. It makes high school so much more fun.” // @thesaraemily: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Mill Valley has great teachers and they are there to help you succeed. Math Lab is a godsend!!!” // @ktcarrs: “You don’t have to play sports to be involved. Join StuCo, NHS, etc to make a difference in your school (plus it’s really fun.)” // @Trin_181: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and go to the girls basketball ball games, they need the support and right now the band is all the have.” // @ Bradley_Teasley: “Bowling is the best sport offered at Mill Valley.” // @TheKyleJFoley: “Meet everyone and make Past and present students tweet new friends! Take every class Mr. Thomtheir best advice for incoming as and Ms. Crosbie offer! Always give jaguars to @MillValleyNews 100% so you’ll have no regrets.” // @madmcbutters: “Learn to be an independent individual.

Go do things on a Friday night by yourself, dig into new interests even if none of your friends are.” // @vickypaige1623: “You never look good trying to make someone else look bad.” // @chappell_apple: “If you ever find yourself in the wrong, admit it humblyno matter the situation. Pride won’t make you friends.” //

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THE CLASS OF 2021?

@gillespieteddy: “Watch Cross Country meets. They never have people watch so they get desperate and love you and give you plaques and stuff, it’s great.” // @ErikaKringen: “Get involved! Find something you love and put your all into it! Enjoy your time as a Mill Valley jag!” // @dinkborg66: “Never underestimate the excitement in going to games of the less featured sports. Make it a group activity and support your peers!” // @mace_walker: “If you ever have Mr. Rodkey as a teacher, go in to get help in the mornings, it is SO beneficial! (a lot of other teachers do this as well.)” // @andrewbock4: “Always try to treat people with kindness and respect. Never underestimate your power to turn somebody’s bad day into a good one.” // @ItsBingyBaby: “As Mill Valley Alumn I would tell the incoming freshman don’t try to do stuff thats out of character to fit in. Be yourself. Be Original! Don’t be in a rush to grow up, cherish the moments because you’ll look back and realize how simple life was and wish you had appreciated it.”

“

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT FRESHMEN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MILL VALLEY? We don’t sing and dance, it’s not choreographed.

SENIOR TRENT ANDERSON

”

16

OPINIONS

Design by Ally Nguyen

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE HARD WORK IS CRUCIAL FOR SUCCESS Self-advocacy and moving past failures help students succeed

AVERY LAWSON

sophomore guest reporter

O

ne thing I would tell my freshman self is to not let failure keep you from moving forward. I was cut from the soccer team my freshman year, but I looked at different options and played football. That year the football team won state for the second year in a row. It was one of the best decisions that I

made throughout my freshman year.

Failure is a temporary setback. If you fail you can’t just sit back and let it roll over you, you must be strong weigh your options and go from there.

Say you get an F on a test, you can’t let that define the rest of the year for that one class. It’s possible to recover from a couple bad grades, but you must work hard to make up for it, even if that means you can’t hang out with your friends or play videos games at night because you should study instead. Sometimes, sacrificing things you like to do for things you have to do is your only option.

You need to be a self-advocate to succeed. You can’t just expect your parents to do everything for you in high school. You need to try to do

more things yourself. If you had group project and you were the only group member that did work and the teacher assigned partners, so you didn’t have a say who you worked with, you can’t expect your parents to call the teacher and make things better. Take responsibility and do it yourself. 95 percent of the time if you are afraid to talk to a teacher it is going to be fine and you are worrying more than you need to.

Overall, freshman year isn’t going to be super scary or stressful. There will be hard times during the school year, but you shouldn’t let those moments define your high school years.

Work hard and don’t let failures hold you back. Become an advocate for yourself and take your responsibilities seriously.

STUDENT SECTIONS BUILD SCHOOL PRIDE Freshmen shouldn’t shy away from student section traditions St. James game during football season that you lose your voice, and take the next day to recover. Being loud and even obnoxious is the whole point of attending a game.

MIA THOMAS junior guest reporter

M

y first memory of freshman year was the first football game I attended. The game was played at Aquinas and I remember standing by all of my friends going crazy the entire time. Everyone was dressed in Hawaiian shirts and leis. It was after that game that I knew that I would be spending a lot of time in the Mill Valley student section, and now I can confidently say that you should be stoo.

You should scream so loud at the

“

“I encourage you to go to all of the games.”

JUNIOR MIA THOMAS

In addition, most games have themes for you to dress up and participate in; don’t be afraid to go all out for themes. Find all of the little things you have to do to keep the good mojo going for your team (mine was eating the same dinner for five weeks, and

we won state).

If you can only attend a couple games, the teams will appreciate you, but I want you to go to all of the activities you can. As a freshman, you’ll sit in the very back of the bleachers, but don’t think that let’s you off the hook for not chanting. It stinks being in the back, but remember we all started there. Three years from now you’ll look back and you may not miss it, but you’ll feel nostalgic.

I enjoy going to football games, but don’t discount other sports and activities. Go to soccer games and track meets and you may find a different student section to go wild in.

In conclusion, simply going to activities and standing there aren’t enough to make memories. Immerse yourself in what the students around you are doing. Enjoy your time as a freshman in the back, because believe me, it goes by way too fast.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT FRESHMEN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MILL VALLEY? The air conditioning barely works.

SENIOR DAKOTA WILSON

”

JagWire

OPINIONS

Mill Valley High School

17

FOR THE CLASS OF 2021?

GET INVOLVED IN CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES Joining activities leads to building frienships and memories Senior Caroline Gambill performs on stage as a waitress during the fall musical “Hello Dolly!” // Sophie Rosen

CAROLINE GAMBILL senior guest reporter

T

hroughout my freshman year, I was hardly involved within Mill Valley. I dreaded coming to school and couldn’t wait for the year to be over, primarily because I couldn’t stand being bored for seven hours a day and coming home without anything to do. I didn’t have many friends besides close acquaintances, because most of those people were involved in sports or activities that gave them their best friends.

After what felt like an eternity of a freshman year, I made a pledge to myself to become more involved.

Class of 2021, I encourage you to not waste this valuable time as a freshmen and become involved now.

In my sophomore year, I ended up trying lots of new things, including becoming a student choreographer within the theater department,

“There is a place for each individual.”

SENIOR CAROLINE GAMBILL

joining a few new clubs and taking multiple AP and honors courses to keep myself busy. I had a much more enjoyable time at school each day knowing I had club meetings, rehearsals and school projects to look

“

forward to. I continued my pattern of trying new things into my junior year, taking on new leadership positions within the activities I was a part of, which gave me even more of a way to help others and make Mill Valley a better place to attend.

This extra involvement taught me leadership and communication skills that would help me in the real world.

Being a part of activities and clubs gave me close friends who shared my opinions and values, many of whom I’m still incredibly close to, and ultimately allowed me to meet new people in the school and see others’ various outlooks on life.

Looking back on my past three years at Mill Valley, I’m eternally grateful for the community each group within the school presents, and I know for a fact that there is a place for each individual. While involvement can be hectic at times, it is so rewarding not only to the school and your peers, but to you and your own happiness. Simply coming to school, going to class, and going home won’t give you the wholesome experience you deserve; surrounding yourself

with a kind, supportive group of friends and discovering what you love to do is the way to make your short

Gambill poses with senior Whitney Burke after perfoming at a choir concert // photo submitted by Caroline Gambilll

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMAN SELF? Make sure you learn study habits because as the years go on, your classes will get harder. If you prepare yourself freshman year, you’ll be more likely to succeed.

SENIOR TYLER ORBIN

”

18

SPORTS

Mill Valley High School

Design by Chris Sprenger and Victoria Wright

hey, hey

STUDENTSECTIONSTATS A survey about student section participation

66%

JagWire

What is your favorite student section theme?

Through student section, students show pride for athletics and school

66% tropical

KATYA GILLIG

24% blackout/whiteout

sports editor jagwire.katyagillig@gmail.com

6% camo

MICHAEL SANDRI

4%

other

reporter/photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

*Twitter poll of 202 students

What is your favorite student section chant?

49% “public schooling” 24% “hey hey whaddya say?”

17% “I believe that we will win”

49%

10% “scoreboard” *Twitter poll of 217 students

A

When students file into the stadium for football games, they hear cheers from the student section, music from the band and feel an electric energy that radiates all around.

Senior Conner Ward has frequented the student section since his freshman year and considers being a part of it a very unique experience.

“The general vibe of the Mill Valley student section is hard to describe,” Ward said. “I have never been a part of anything like it; I would describe it as passion and pride for our school.”

For many students, showing pride for their school is exemplified in the form of dressing up. Junior Killian O’Brien encourages “dressing up as much as possible” to show support, or

Hoping for another state title, the Mill Valley student section cheers on the Jaguars during the state football game against Goddard on Nov. 2, 2016. // Victoria Wright

“

in his case, wearing “as little clothing as possible in the coldest conditions.”

Senior quarterback Brody Flaming said that an exciting student section makes athletes on the field feel supported.

“The hype from the student section makes it a lot easier to be relaxed because I know that I have all them behind my back,” Flaming said.

The raw emotion that culminates at each football game takes time to build up, according to Ward. He said that fans start to show up and get excited long before the actual game begins.

“Before a typical game, most students usually hangout, make signs and tailgate,” Ward said. “Then we usually start to head into the stands about an hour before the game starts and we are up and cheering around 10 minutes before kickoff.”

Although the fans show up to each game an hour before it starts, they never leave before it ends. Ward said that last year’s game against Goddard High School is a perfect example of the fans’ devotion.

During this game there were many

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Don’t freak out; the school work might be heavy at first, but you’ll get used to it and try to be open to making new friends.

SOPHOMORE DILARA KING

”

JagWire

SPORTS

Mill Valley High School

what do we say?

19

Q&A

Senior Izzy Hellon shares why she enjoys particpating in the student section JagWire: What is the environment of MICHAEL SANDRI the student section like? reporter/photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

Izzy Hellon: It’s always super loud and fun and everyone always cheers together.

JW: What has been one of your favorite memories in the student section?

IH: My favorite memory was when we were playing Aquinas and Conner Ward made a huge sheet that said “daddy’s money” and we spread it around the whole student section.

JW: What type of an impact does the section have on the the team itself?

Dressed in tropical themed attire, students cheer as the football team competes against St. Thomas Aquinas on Friday, Sept. 30, 2016. // Jessi Mitchell

times where it looked like the Jaguars would be defeated, but the student section never lost faith and were there to celebrate when the Jags won in overtime, Ward said.

“It gives the whole team a different type of energy that makes us play much better.”

SENIOR BRODY FLAMING

“The student section stayed behind our team at a time where it seemed like we would be going home empty handed,” Ward said. “I feel like this moment really highlights the pride in our community.”

According to Flaming, a supportive student section is imperative to player performance.

“It is very important to have an excited student section because I believe

“

it gives the whole team a different type of energy that makes us play much better,” Flaming said.

While Ward likes to focus on the loyalty of the student section, O’Brien admires the unpredictability that fans can bring to a game.

“The general vibe the student section brings is always warm, fuzzy and harsh all at the same time,” O’Brien said. “At any moment we can strike and slap you in the face.”

The exciting vibe lasts throughout the game and levels of excitement are often determined by opposing student sections, according to Ward.

“We are always loud throughout the whole game” Ward said. “Usually, you will see plenty of signs that will be held up during the game and for some special games I make a big sheet that our student section will all hold over our heads.”

At the end of the day, some students enjoy the same aspects of the football games as Ward while others enjoy the same antics as O’Brien, but everyone in the student section enjoys rooting for the Jaguars.

IH: I think that the student section really hypes up the players. When they make a good play, they’ll look over and see us cheering and it makes them want to continue to do well.

JW: What have been some of your favorite themes for the student section?

IH: I have always like the USA theme.

I just think that it looks cool in the student section and most people have something red, white or blue, so everyone has something to fit the theme.

JW: What were some of the best games to have been in the student section?

IH: Definitely both state games. All of the fans were going crazy and running on the field after the win. It was awesome.

JW: What types of signs/props are used in the student section?

IH: There’s quite a bit of signs used and for some weird reason there are a lot of signs of Waldecks face.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT FRESHMEN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MILL VALLEY? They should know that school spirit is super cool and that you should have it because it’s really lame if you don’t.

SENIOR CAROLINE GAMBILL

”

20

A&E

Design by Claire Boone & Marah Shulda

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

HOW TO PACK YOUR PACK

Students and staff define the most important item they pack in their bag

ABBY LAYTON

A&E editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

“

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FRESHMEN? Don’t sleep on things man it will sneak up on you.

JUNIOR BRANDON DAVIS

”

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Photos by Annie Myers, Hunter Ristau & Marah Shulda

“When you have [headphones] it’s better because when you have work time you can just focus on what you’re working on.”

A&E

21

JUNIOR SHYANNE BEST

“I use [the floss] after lunch or whenever my teeth feel dirty.”

SENIOR BRADY WATKINS

“[Gum] keeps my mouth busy and stops me from talking all the time during class.”

SOPHOMORE ANNIE BOGART

“My agenda is like my diary from high school. It has all of the important events in it.”

ENGLISH TEACHER ASHLEY AGRE

“

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMEN SELF? I would tell my freshman self to enjoy it while it lasts ... because it goes by very fast and you’re going to want the time back.

JUNIOR SYDNEY FISHER

”

22

A&E

Mill Valley High School

Design by Anika Roy

APPS TO ADD

JagWire

LEXI FLIPSE

social media editor jagwire.lexiflipse@gmail.com

Students and staff use variety of educational applications to enhance the classroom experience

TWITTER Accounts to Follow: @millvalleynews @mvjaguars @MillValleystuco @MV_SLT @MVJaguar

“I usually like to use Twitter to look up what the theme for the football games are and what the scores were of events that I couldn’t go to.”

“[I use Twitter] mainly for quick communication. It’s available all the time, I can use it wherever I’m at. [I tweet] logistical stuff, practice times, meetings.”

SENIOR BAILEY HEFFERNON

BASEBALL COACH JEFF STRICKLAND

BLACKBOARD

CLASSROOM

If I forget to tell [students] something, I’ll sit down and make an announcement on Blackboard.”

“My teachers use Google Classroom to post assignments so it’s easier for students to have access.”

PSYCHOLOGY TEACHER KIRSTEN CRANDALL

SENIOR HALEY HARVEY

“

SKYWARD

“I use the Skyward mobile app mainly to check my grades, my schedule and my lunch balance.”

JUNIOR AVERY SHELTRA

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMEN SELF? You don’t have to rush off to class right after the bell rings, seven minutes is plenty of time.

SENIOR ADDE HINKLE

”

JagWire

Mill Valley High School

Design by Nora Lucas

Photos by Victoria Wright

A&E

STUDENT FASHION

23

GUIDE ALLY NGUYEN

Mill Valley News editor-in-chief/ opinions editor jagwire.allynguyen@gmail.com

INDIVIDUALSTYLE

SENIOR OLIVIA WIDMER

DRESSEDDOWN

DRESSEDUP “My mom [and I] share a lot of our clothing. I like to do jeans ... with shoes that jazz it up.”

Students give input on some trendy styles found at school

“It’s comfortable and really easy to throw on when you’re running late.”

SOPHOMORE ANALIESE WILHAUK

TRENDYPIECES

“I find things I like and think are cool and I just get them. The pizza shorts [are a staple].”

JUNIOR DOUG HOTTER

Students discuss popular clothing items of last year

“I choose to wear off-the-shoulder tops if I’m trying to dress up an outfit a little more than usual.”

“Birkenstocks are super comfortable and easy to slip on and off. They can go with anything.”

“I like showing pride in my favorite team or player. The jerseys are cheap and there is a wide variety.”

JUNIOR LAUREN HARRIS

SENIOR SAM PHIPPS

JUNIOR AIDAN VEAL

“

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR FRESHMEN SELF? To wear crocs more often.

JUNIOR TRINITY KNAPP

”

24 PHOTO ESSAY

Design by Hunter Ristau and Marah Shulda

HUNTING THE HALLS

1

Mill Valley High School

JagWire

Follow this scavenger hunt on the Mill Valley campus, including the halls and athletic fields, to possibly win a prize

2

2

3 Answers Please write the locations of these photos and bring to room C-101 by Wednsday, August 23. First to have four correct answers wins a prize.

4

1 2 3 4