STILLNESS AMID THE CHAOS
Learning how to focus on the now
August 15, 2025
New Alert!
This summer, Kaneland High School welcomed two new administrators: Assistant Principal of Student Services and Special Education Haley Albamonte and Dean of Students Steven Lucas.
According to Principal Melinda Cattell, Albamonte’s role will focus on supporting students in all ways: academically, socially and emotionally. Albamonte will work with the Student Services department and teachers to ensure that this support is properly implemented. As the dean, Lucas will act as an advocate for students, particularly in terms of managing behavior, discipline and attendance.
“I’m very excited to welcome both our new dean and assistant principal to the team,” Cattell said. “They each bring a strong background of experience and a deep commitment to student success. Their student-centered approach, combined with their knowledge and leadership, will be a great asset to Kaneland High School.”
Albamonte was born into a family of teachers and knew from a young age that she wanted to be part of the education field. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Indiana State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Illinois University, she became a special education teacher at DeKalb High School and eventually was promoted to Dean of Students.
Similarly, Lucas’s father was an educator. However, Lucas had a six-year career in business and banking before he earned his master’s degree in Secondary Education from Benedictine Uni -
BY EMMA WEINTRAUB Editor-In-Chief of Print and Business Executive
Admin
by Clara Saros
versity. From there, he taught business classes for seven years at West Aurora High School, before becoming the Dean of Students at Batavia High School and then Director of Athletics and Activities at Plano High School.
“I have a lot of experience in this role and have seen a lot of unique situations, which should make things easier to handle or address,” Lucas said. “I am focused on what is in the best interest of the students and staff.”
changes. Albamonte wants to start by expanding opportunities and educational experiences for students.
“I want students, staff and families to see building administration as a resource and a partner,” Albamonte said.
Kaneland will offer unique experi -
Assistant
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Outside of education, Albamonte and Lucas both share a passion for sports. Albamonte has been a travel softball coach for over 10 years. She enjoys spending her time playing and coaching softball and being with her team. Other than softball, she enjoys being in the water, whether that is at her pool or in a lake. Lucas enjoys time with his family, along with traveling, fishing, hunting and cooking.
Albamonte wants Kaneland students to know that she is here to help all of them.
“My office is right off of the library, and my door is always open,” Albamonte said. “I want to be a resource and support for students. Never hesitate to stop by, say hello and reach out if there is anything you need. Big or small.”
ences for both administrators. For Albamonte, this means experiencing the close-knit, small-town nature of our community. Lucas is intrigued by the renovations that will come from the recent referendum, and he is especially excited for the new fieldhouse coming to the high school.
Lucas, during his first year, is hoping to develop relationships with students and staff members before making
This is Kaneland’s second year in a row bringing in two new administrators. Leaving the school is former Dean Noe Escamilla, who is now an Assistant Principal at Marengo Union Elementary School. Former Assistant Principal of Student Services Larry King is now Principal of Indian Creek Middle School.
“We are happy for the new adventures and new roles for the former dean and assistant principal,” Cattell said. “Lucas and Albamonte are bringing an incredible wealth of experience, energy and a clear passion for working with students. Kaneland High School is very lucky to have them.”
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Page design by Clara Saros
Principal
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Education Haley Albamonte and Dean of Students Steven Lucas began their new roles on July 1. The new administrators are excited to develop their relationships with Kaneland staff and students.
Local communities join in on
BY CHARLIZE LANDA Co-Copy Editor and Broadcast Manager
This past summer has included national protests against a range of President Donald Trump’s policies that have had local impacts as well, drawing the attention of Kaneland students and teachers. A public outcry of this magnitude is a common theme in American history, with people often coming together to fight for civil rights and against issues like government overreach.
National Public Radio (NPR) reports that, since Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, Trump has removed thousands of federal jobs, prioritized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids to target immigrants, and raised tariffs on goods from foreign countries. Such actions motivated the 50501Movement, which stands for 50 protests, 50 states and 1 movement.
While the protests have been continuously highlighted on various social media platforms and nightly newscasts, local residents have also addressed their concerns.
national protests
es that could occur with Trump’s plans for mass deportations of immigrants.
On April 5, protestors gathered to demand that the Trump administration, along with Elon Musk, keep their “hands off” of the United States, according to the official Hands Off! website. The message from organizers of this Hands Off! protest was to march peacefully, with violence of any kind strictly forbidden.
has not been violence or looting really happening yet is pretty unprecedented,” social studies teacher Jessica McNally said. “It is not what’s normally done, and in some ways, I think we saw that it stirred up more problems than it solved.”
The No Kings protest then took place on June 14. Citizens gathered throughout the country to protest what they perceived as Trump’s authoritative style and disregard for other branches of the government. The marches were scheduled for the same day as Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C. Similarly, the Good Trouble Lives On protest on July 17 also attracted protestors in various parts of the country. This protest commemorated late congressman John Lewis five years after his passing. Lewis was a civil rights leader and a politician from Georgia, and his phrase “good trouble” has been popularized as a way to express the spirit of protesting.
“It was genuinely exciting to see so many different people come together,” junior Adyson Koss said. “It makes me happy knowing that people haven’t given up, even with everything that’s been going on.”
Some protests occurred before this past summer, such as the Day Without Immigrants protest on Feb. 3. Instead of people marching like many of the most recent rallies, this February protest involved immigrants calling off from work and school, closing businesses and not making purchases. The goal of this protest was to demonstrate the need for immigrants in the United States. Many protestors were concerned with the humanitarian and economic consequenc -
Another significant protest took place in Los Angeles this past June. According to a June 10 PBS News article, Trump directed 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles against the wishes of California Governor Gavin Newsom. This directive doubled the amount of National Guard troops who were already in the area due to what the president described as the violent nature of some of the protests, with these protests focused on the government’s handling of immigration policies.
“The president sending in the National Guard in a situation where there
“I continue to call and write to my representatives and attend protests like this,” Oswego resident Bryan Ruff said at a Good Trouble Lives On protest in Yorkville. “I want to make as many people aware of what is going on as possible.”
As people continue to argue about Trump’s policies, ICE raids have continued throughout the country, which is one of the biggest concerns for some citizens.
“I know a lot of vulnerable people, and I know that we are all human,” former Plainfield High School English teacher Nancy Eichelberger said at the same protest.
Despite concerns that opponents of Trump’s policies may have, many remain hopeful for the future as they continue to advocate for their beliefs.
“If they did not listen the first time, then showing up again, even bigger and louder, makes it harder for them to ignore us,” Koss said. “It proves we’re serious and not going to back down.”
Photos by Sophia Schroll
People gather in Yorkville on July 17 to protest various administrative policies. Many similar protests took place this summer in that area and in locations throughout the country.
How do you live in the present without worrying about the past or future?
GraphicsbyAnnaGatz
“Whenever I’m stressed about my future, I usually do things that I enjoy to take my mind off of it, like listening to music, exercising and being around people that I love.”
sophomore Gavin Steuer
“I live in the moment because the future will be here in no time at all.”
senior Mikey Conley
BY OLIVIA COTTER Co-Copy Editor and Production Executive
“Instead of worrying, you can use your memories from the past and aspirations to live in the moment.”
junior Lily Wennemar
“I’ve grown from my past and look forward to what my future holds, but it’s all about enjoying the life that’s in front of you right now.”
freshman Lauren Sharp
A unique retelling of a classic superhero
BY FAITH MASCHMAN Review Manager
On July 11, 2025, Superman was released in theaters by Warner Bros. Pictures. Even though most people are familiar with the 1938 story of Krypton-born Clark Kent, this version still managed to captivate its viewers in a whole new way.
This film has mainly received positive feedback from the media. IMDb rated this film 7.6/10, which is based on the average score from over 180,000 viewers. Rotten Tomatoes shows that 91% of the feedback on this film from over 25,000 verified audience members is positive. My opinion is no exception; I enjoyed this film, and it met every expectation I had for this kind of movie.
The film follows the story of Superman becoming involved in personal and political disputes, giving billionaire, genius and criminal mastermind Lex Luthor a chance to permanently eliminate the beloved superhero. Despite drawing clear inspiration from past Superman movies, the premise of this one still seemed original. It contains high levels of suspense, allowing viewers to feel the full stress of each situation.
Voices & Review 4
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film’s music score helps to am plify this suspense in cer tain scenes. Above all, the most impressive aspect of the plot is that every detail - major to minor - is all connected.
From leading actors like David Corenswet (Superman) and Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane) to those in supporting roles like Nathan Fillion (Green Lantern), every actor played their role excellently. The acting in this film is very realistic; it feels personal, as though we are watching conversations truly play out. The performances of each actor were also very emotional, allowing the audience to experience the same feelings as the characters. Actor Nicholas Hoult had a particularly impressive performance in his chilling portrayal of Lex Luthor. Not only did the acting make this film so high quality, but those behind the camera were essential in the captivating storytelling.
Superman was written and directed
by James Gunn, an American filmmaker known for his work in films such as Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and The Suicide Squad (2021). He made an excellent and humorous use of foreshadowing in this film, and he used many unconventional transitions between scenes. Gunn also relied on an intriguing use of angles, as well as a calculated amount of close-up shots to convey the characters’ emotions. While Gunn’s work in this film is amazing, he is not the only collaborator behind the scenes who allowed this film to be so enjoyable.
The film’s excellent cinematography is credited to Henry Braham, known for his work in Roseanna’s Grave (1997) and Bright Young Things (2003). The color grading in this film, unlike many previous Superman movies, included a very striking, vibrant arrangement of colors with heavy contrast. All of the editing within the film is phenomenal; every sequence looks real, even Superman’s ice fortress. The special effects makeup was also particularly incredible and completely realistic.
Between the striking colors, fun soundtrack and unique cinematography, Gunn provides a fresh and entertaining take on the classic superhero.
design by Anna Gatz & Sophia Schroll
Impact of staying involved during high school
BY BOBBY LEAVEY
Co-Sports & Activities Executive and Broadcast Manager
As the school year begins, it is time to break the bad summer habits a lot of high school students find their way into. It’s always easy for parents and guardians to hammer you with the clichés of “stay off the screens” and “go outside more,” but there is so much more to staying active and involved. The years you are in high school will impact your future more than you might imagine, and it’s important that what you do now has a purpose and helps set you up for success. So, how do you make sure that the activities you partake in have meaning?
“Academic accomplishment in high school is important, but the Admissions Committee also considers many other criteria, such as community involvement, leadership and distinction in extracurricular activities, and personal qualities and character,” according to the Harvard University admissions website. “There is no formula for gaining admission. We rely on trusted individuals to share information with us about an applicant’s strength of character, their ability to overcome adversity, and other personal qualities.”
While not all students will attend a school like Harvard, that does not mean their admission statement only applies to their college. It applies to every educational institution and any careers you may want to pursue. Athletic and academic accomplishments will only take you so far. Most future employers, coaches and advisers want to see the kind of character you display and how you can handle yourself as a person.
“Admission reviewers see through the attempt to pad a resume or col lege application,” Department Chair for Student Services Erin Shore said. “They want to see how you poured in your effort to the cause, not just showed up for one meeting a year and said you were in the club. I’d recommend finding things that serve your interests and enhance Kaneland or the community.”
Shore further emphasiz es the importance of participating in clubs and sports with a purpose. You can do the bare minimum and fill out your resume with plenty of activities, or you can focus your attention and energy on a select few clubs where you are doing pur poseful work that helps you grow as a person and future adult.
Not everyone will have the same interests and understanding of what they want to do in their life, so it is important to explore different activities that target life skills.
Senior Taverly Gilbertson, for example, is the volleyball team manager and president of the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) group, while also being on the Prom Committee. Each activity she is a part of builds a different skill.
“I’m involved in all of these because I enjoy each one for their own reason,” Gilbertson said. “Managing the volleyball team gives me the chance to be around all my friends and spend quality time bonding, while also learning under a varsity coach who knows how to manage and coach a team herself. DECA gives me the chance to experience problem solving in the business world and gives me a glimpse into what business is. Business is definitely a degree I wish to pursue in college and beyond. And the Prom Committee helps me learn how to learn to work with other people and how to plan a fun event
that I want others to enjoy.”
You can’t always be certain about what you do in your life, especially while you’re in high school. So building skills you can use anywhere, along with joining clubs that match your interests, can add purpose to your teenage years and make sure you’re not wasting time that should be spent on helping your career down the road.
“It’s important to learn how to speak to people, look them in the eye, meet a deadline, be a reliable teammate and learn how to work through conflict,” Shore said. “College or work you do after high school will rely heavily on those skills in order to be successful.”
Being the star of your varsity sports team or having the highest grade point average in your class only takes you so far. It is important at such a young age to build basic life skills, like being a well-mannered collaborator and a critical thinker, but also pursue specific interests that could help you in a future occupation. High school is a time to find what interests you and turn that interest into passion, instead of just filling your resume or job application with big words. Make your life purposeful while you are in high school, or you may end up playing catch-up with everyone else later in life.
Graphics by Emma Weintraub
BY OLIVIA KRASUSKI Editor-in-Chief of Web
see what someone texted me, or check my friends’ posts to see what they’re up to,” Leuer admits.
The key to happiness: Living in the moment
ful.org.
Presence doesn’t require a total lifestyle transformation; it just starts with being aware of your surroundings. Journaling, walking without music or sim ply paying attention to your senses can gently ground you.
“I try to make some time to get off my phone and spend that time with my family and friends,” Leuer said.
How many moments have passed by unnoticed as background noise to a racing mind or a glowing screen? For teens, being present often feels like a luxury in a society that rewards constant productivity and nonstop connections. But presence isn’t about ignoring the past or pretending the future doesn’t matter. It’s about refusing to let either steal your attention from the only thing you can truly control: right now.
That truth is easy to forget in a society where attention is always being pulled elsewhere. But even brief moments of awareness, such as putting your phone down, laughing with a friend or noticing the way the light hits the floor, can keep you in the present moment.
Being present isn’t always easy,
While Leuer does make an effort to put the phone down around friends and family, she’s not alone in her struggle. In a society constantly distracted by updates, being fully present in the here and now feels more like a conscious decision than a given reality.
Even when teens are physically present, their minds are often somewhere else - worrying about a test, replaying an awkward moment from the day before or stressing over what comes after graduation. With so many
comfort of a sunset can slip by unno ticed, erasing the opportunity for calm or connection.
Being present doesn’t need to al ways feel out of reach. Small choices, like putting your phone away during meals or taking a few deep breaths be tween classes, can shift your focus back to the current moment.
“One of the keys to happiness lies in simply redirecting our attention from mind-wandering and distraction to what’s happening right here, right now in the present moment,” author Eric Langshur wrote in his article on mind
Design by Sophia Schroll
Letter from the executives
With the arrival of a new school year, it is easy for us to get lost in the chaos of high school. Whether you are a freshman trying to learn your way around, a senior stressing about college applications, a student-athlete balancing practice and homework assignments, or a student working after school, there are going to be times this year where we could all use a break from the stress.
As the new executives of the Kaneland Krier, we have started our new roles and already felt that kind of pressure. This first issue didn’t just appear in your classes today; we were here throughout the summer working on this and so many other things tied to our new roles. We’re sure a lot of you had busy summers too, making it feel like it flew by. We have realized that the only way to not become overwhelmed with the neverending to-do list that high school brings is to slow down and find ways to enjoy each moment as it happens.
Even though there may be times this year when it seems like you are falling behind, remember during those moments to find opportunities to experience all that Kaneland - and your high school years in general - can offer. Go to that white-out themed football game (even if you won’t pay attention to the game itself), pet the pigs at Bring Your Tractor to School Day, participate in tug-of-war during a pep rally (or at least try to have fun watching other people do it) and enjoy these four years while you have them before everything changes.
Emma Weintraub
Evan Whildin
Olivia Cotter