Issuu

OPINION

February 2026 - Issue 3 - Vol. 72

Lindbergh High School 5000 Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63126 (314)-729-2400

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CONTRIBUTORS

Mira Schoewe Editor-in-Chief Lillian Donaldson Editor-in-Chief Finnley Placke Media Editor Krystle Hoisington Advisor

Leila Thomas Staff Writer Kelly Forbes Staff Writer Zoe Azzara Staff Writer Fiona Le Staff Writer Martin Corbin-Cornwell Contrbuting Reporter Stella Roehrs Online Contributing Writer

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dear readers...

FROM THE EDITORS

As we move into 2026, it has become increasingly clear that many of the challenges facing our community are connected to larger social and political forces. From nationwide protests against ICE to local Lindbergh families’ personal stories, these topics explore the growing concerns about who is heard and how communities respond when systems fall short. While these discussions often begin at the state or national level, their impact is felt locally, affecting students, families and educators within our district. In this edition, you will also explore changes impacting LHS sports, the “Stranger Things” finale and the “Mamma Mia!” production. Together, these stories capture a year marked by both resilience and creativity. With this issue, Pilot aims to inform, encourage and inspire thoughtful conversation about the world shaping Lindbergh and our future.

Mira Schoewe and Lillian Donaldson Editors-in-Chief, Pilot

Behind the scenes in Lindbergh’s broadcasting and photo studio.

Cover: Sophia Chanthapanya, 9, poses in the Lindbergh broadcasting studio. “14”: Students celebrate at school dance. “06”: Chanthapanya and her mother, Mimi, at their family restaurant. Photographed by Mira Schoewe for Pilot newsmagazine. “18”:

WALKS OUT LINDBERGH

OStudents protest immigration crackdown

by Mira Schoewe and Fiona Le - Editor-in-Chief and Staff Writer News

n the night of Sunday, Feb.

8, most teenagers in America might be found crowding the television to watch the Super Bowl --- but for senior Kylie Stafford, that night was spent writing an email to her high school principal, Dr. Eric Cochran, requesting permission for a student walkout she hoped to organize.

The walkout, which took place on Thursday, Feb. 19, aimed to speak out against Immigration Customs

Enforcement (ICE) and President Trump’s deportation agenda. It was officially authorized by Dr. Cochran after a February 10th meeting with him and other grade level principals following Stafford’s email.

“I want people to come together for a common goal, no matter their background, political party or who their friend group is. I think people need to realize their voice is important, even when it’s shaky,” Stafford said. “I hope everyone who is attending truly cares about the matter at hand and wants to raise awareness for what is

happening.”

Stafford had first been inspired to organize the walkout when she heard a friend had organized a similar protest at a local Catholic high school: Nerinx Hall.

According to Stafford, students craved a stronger way to voice what they believed in, and a walkout at Lindbergh could achieve that goal. Stafford hoped she and other participants could use the walkout to promote diversity and inspire a call to action.

“People need to know that I didn’t organize this protest for a pat on the back and a couple 'thank you’s.' I organized this so people [I go to school with] can speak their mind, especially about ICE and their actions. Not everyone gets the chance to speak out and share their opinion,” Stafford said. “At the end of the day, we all bleed red. We are all humans. I am a firm believer in the people and what they are able to accomplish if they can come together and work as one.”

The walkout, which started at 11:50 p m and continued throughout Thursday’s PAC class, was first introduced to the student body after Stafford posted, “Other species migrate to survive. Only humans criminalize it,” on Instagram.

“To all Lindbergh students, I’m sure you have all seen what has been happening in the world and, in turn, the protests…on THURSDAY THE 19th, during PAC, we will hold our own [protest],” the post continued.

Police had already been notified by Lindbergh’s SRO prior to the walkout that the protests would be taking place, according to another one of Stafford’s Instagram posts.

Stafford also encouraged students who were unable to attend the walkout to support from the sidelines by wearing white clothing.

“Everyone can do hard things, even when you think you can’t. The support this has received online is actually insane. Don’t stop talking about it. Even when it’s over, the fight still lives on every day. Please make sure you show up. Every person matters, even if you don’t think it will make a difference,” Stafford said.

The Thursday walkout was only one of several anti-ICE efforts from Lindbergh students. On the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 30, some other students had gathered in the hallways and South Cafeteria to hand out flyers promoting a nationwide shutdown, also in protest of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

“ICE OUT! …At the end of the day, WE have the power as the working class to SHUT THEM DOWN. For the good of everyone in the country, everyone you care about and everyone you hardly know, please spread the word. Divided we fall, but together we RISE! NATIONAL STRIKE TOMORROW!” the flyer read.

The nationwide shutdown, which included no work, school or shopping, was mainly organized by American students and immigration support organizations, according to the shutdown’s official website, nationalshutdown.org. Students enrolled in several metro-area schools, including Affton and Kirkwood public high schools, also held student-led walkouts as part of the January 30 protests.

Outside of the protests, an anonynmous survey of 108 Lindbergh students found that 75.9 percent of respondents rated their perceptions of the current administration’s enforcement of immigration policy a one out of five.

“I believe that how the current administration is dealing with immigration is a huge problem, and there are so many better ways of dealing with it instead of going around and snatching people off the streets. Some of my non-white friends, who are legal citizens, feel scared from this...a lot of the [detained immigrants] have no choice, as the U.S. immigration process takes years,” a respondent said. “This needs to be fixed to make it easier for people who simply want a better life

“I am a firm believer in the people and what they are able to accomplish if they can come together and work as one” - Kylie Stafford (12)

Upper left: St. Louis students protest ICE in the Affton high school parking lot. Photo courtesy of Erica Hajdini.

Right: An anti-ICE Instagram post from Stafford.

Upper left: St. Louis students protest ICE in the Affton high school parking lot. Photo courtesy of Erica Hajdini.

Right: An anti-ICE Instagram post from Stafford.

...the conditions at the detention centers and prisons are disgusting as well. It’s bad when American citizens are being killed over this.”

According to several other survey responses, a lot of ICE’s unpopularity among students came from an increase in deportation numbers and the way enforcement agents have been believed to be treating immigrants. Since the beginning of Mr. Trump’s second term, ICE deportations have increased around four times compared to the Biden administration, according to data from the Deportation Data Project.

Some other frustrations have stemmed from Mr. Trump’s immigration court restructure. At the beginning of his term, nearly 100 immigration judges were removed, according to reporting from National Public Radio (NPR). Some say that fewer immigration judges could slow down the immigration process, or even indirectly accelerate the deportation process.

A few survey respondents said the current administration’s handling of immigration might be a good thing, but that a lot of their frustrations come from

the number of immigrants deported. According to these respondents, not enough has been done about the undocumented immigrants.

“ICE is [doing] a good job at deportation and protecting the southern border. Trump’s immigration policy is making illegal [immigrant] numbers go down significantly. But, I am [disappointed] with Trump’s promise of “mass deportation” when they have not even deported a million illegal immigrants. I really want Obama’s number deportation, and not in the thousands,” another survey respondent said.

Stafford said a few students supporting ICE also commented on her Instagram post promoting the walkout. According to Stafford, these comments were mainly hate comments, and many came from fake accounts.

“Personally, the hate comments don’t bother me at all…I understand everyone has their own opinion and there will always be two sides to every situation,” Stafford said.

“Even though I am terrified to see how this [protest] will turn out, I also won’t let my fear stop me from standing up for what is right. If there were to be a counter-protest, I just hope both sides are able to remain peaceful.”

“Personally, the hate comments don’t bother me at all…I understand everyone has their own opinion and there will always be two sides to every situation,” Stafford said. “Even though I am terrified to see how this [protest] will turn out, I also won’t let my fear stop me from standing up for what is right. If there were to be a counter-protest, I just hope both sides are able to remain peaceful.”

At Lindbergh, teachers and administrators have been working on how to address the protests. According to Cochran, this is not the first time students have led a walkout.

“What we have done, in those cases, is that we don’t authorize or approve of those because we do feel like we want to do our best to try to maintain the order of the school and make sure that we’re doing our job of having it be a learning environment. But when students do take those types of actions, we respect that,” Cochran said.

Some other schools in the area have also been revisiting student protest policies. On Feb. 5, 2026, Superintendent Dr. Jason Kind of the Windsor school district issued a statement addressing the local walkouts.

“The Windsor C-1 School District has not organized, promoted, endorsed, supported or approved any walkout or protest…The district played no role in the creation or distribution of that material, and the presence of district-related imagery on it should not be interpreted as approval or involvement by the school district,” the statement said. “If a walkout were to occur, it would be

“I want people to come together for a common goal, no matter their background, political party or who their friend group it. I think people need to realize their voice is important, even when it’s shaky.” - Kylie Stafford (12)

ICE agents at a Los Angeles protest. Photo courtesy of Luke Johnson from the Los Angeles Times.

In an anonymous survey sent out to the Lindbergh student body, 108 students were asked to rate their perceptions of 1) the current administration’s handling of immigration policy and 2) previous administrations’ handling of immigration policy. One indicates a highly negative perception, and five indicates a highly positive perception.

student-led and not a school or district-sanctioned activity.”

Stafford did not mention plans for if limits on student protests were to be put in place at Lindbergh, but her goal with the walkout was clear: to encourage students to unite and speak up for what she and they believe is right.

“I hope we can see someone who is different and love them rather than the opposite. ‘The only thing more powerful than hate is love.’” Stafford said.

People protest ICE in New York City. This was one of several, nationwide efforts to speak out against the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Photo courtesy of Rolling Stone magazine. Current

People protest ICE in New York City. This was one of several, nationwide efforts to speak out against the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Photo courtesy of Rolling Stone magazine.

Beyond Black Histor y

Students and educators reflect on how Black history can become a consistent part of everyday

by Lillian Donaldson - Editor-in-Chief

In a district where the African American population is made up of a smaller portion, February can feel like one of the few structured opportunities to intentionally revolve around those voices. Teachers incorporate lessons on civil rights, historical figures and cultural benefactions. Student organizations, including Lindbergh’s Black Student Union Coalition, also use the month to make space for celebration. However, some staff members say that when Black history is primarily taught in February, it can separate it from a wider perspective.

Here at Lindbergh High School, Black History Month is not only viewed in classroom lessons, it is shown in broader conversations about whose stories are consistently told and whose are often condensed into a single unit. While February provides a nationally recognized time to underline Black contributions to American history, students and educators at both Lindbergh and McCluer High School say the deeper issue is not whether the month exists, but how Black history goes beyond those 28 days.

“Black history is sometimes taught in specific units rather than being integrated throughout the year. When it’s included more consistently, students gain a stronger understanding of how different time periods and events connect, ” said Lauren Smith, BSCU sponsor.

Smith said that Black history spans to every century of American development, shaping politics, science, literature, economics and culture. When taught in isolated compartments, those connections can be harder for students to see.

“There’s a lot of history out there that we can’t cover. I think we should fit as much minorities as possible, including African American history.”

Humanities teacher

Mark Pfeiffer teaches his class at Lindbergh High School.

Sharia Mason, Director of Equity and Inclusion, said Black History Month also carries personal meaning for her identity and as an administrator at Lindbergh.

“As a Black woman and an educational leader, Black History Month is personal; it reminds me of the strength, resilience, and excellence of those who came before me and inspires me to lead in a way that creates opportunity and belonging for others,” Mason said.

In addition, Humanities teacher Mark Pfeiffer explained that he appreciates the value of dedicating a month to Black history, but he also sees the limitations of relying on that time alone.

“I like the traditions surrounding Black History Month, where the country recognizes it as a whole,” Pfeffier said. “But then at the same time, I wish we could highlight more throughout the year in different lessons that might not necessarily fall in Februar y.”

For those at Lindbergh, the conversation centers on how to move from acknowledgment to consistency. When lessons extend past a month, Black history becomes less of a special topic and more of a substantial part of history.

The conversation takes on a different tone at McCluer High School, who had a predominantly Black population. Rather than focusing on whether Black history is included, teachers and students there expanded on how it is taught and who it is for.

“We live in Black history,” McCluer English teacher Ronadoa Hood said. “The recognition of Black History to honor those individuals who did make a way for African Americans to have civil rights, and to feel human, and to feel recognized, and to feel honored, but we live it every day. So Black history is not for me, it’s for the people who don’t get a chance to experience our culture.”

Hood explained that for her, Black History Month is an acknowledgment, but not the starting point.

“ To a white audience, you look at Black History Month as if it’s just reduced to that month, but for a Black person, it is literally every day. When you ask if we should keep it as a month, no, because I teach it throughout the year since my kids are Black. I live Black history every month because I’m Black. I focus on Black history because I’m Black. So I do believe because of my background and who I am as a person, it does affect and impact what I’m teaching and how I teach it.”

Students at McCluer also expressed concerns about the way Black history is shown in schools. “In Black history, I feel like a lot of the things we go over are mainly about the suffrages that Black people went through. I know that it’s important to highlight that, but it’s not good to only focus on the bad things that we went through because we never go over other achievements or any good things that’s happened to us,” said freshman London Moore.

Desks in McCluer English classroom after a Black history discussion.

When other cultures are examined, teachers commonly lean towards accomplishments and positive contributions. In contrast, Moore feels Black history lessons frequently revolve around segregation and discrimination without equal attention to art, leadership and progress.

This shows a more important apprehension about narrative balance. While comprehending injustice is necessary, lessening the focus to oppression can offer an unfinished picture of Black achievement.

Another McCluer freshman, Montriece Rice, described the significance of history in communities. “People should learn more about Ferguson and how there’s still modern-day sundown towns. In Furgason, Berkeley and Kinloch were basically for colored people, and I think it was either walls or separators that held colored people, and white people separated them from Ferguson. So the only time you would see a colored person in Ferguson was if they were just doing labor for white people. And I think our district was the last district to get away from segregation laws for schools. We have a lot of plantation houses, or just slave homes around Ferguson," Rice said.

The perspectives from Lindbergh and McCluer show how demographics form the discussions about Black History Month. Many districts focus on increasing representation and sharing Black history more often throughout the year. At McCluer, that focus shifts into something else, which is ensuring that Black history is not defined solely by hardship and that it displays culture and achievement.

In both schools, it is evident that students and educators agree that recognition matters. But integration may matter even more. February provides a spotlight, yet, history does not wait for a spotlight to exist. It continues in classrooms, in communities and in the lived experiences of students, long after our calendars turn to March. Teaching Black history as an ongoing part of our lives, rather than a temporary focus, could be

11 the key to giving students a fuller, more accurate understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

Students sit in McCluer library.

SOPHIA

UNINTERRUPTED SOPHIA

UNINTERRUPTED

How the Chanthapanyas built their life in America from scratch.

by Zoe Azzara, Lily Donaldson and Mira Schoewe - Staff Writer and Editors-in-Chief

Feature

Some reporting contributed by Martin Corbin-Cornwell

Photographed by Mira Schoewe for Pilot newsmagazine.

Left: Sophia Chanthapanya, freshman, poses for the camera in Lindbergh’s broadcasting and photo studio.

Photographed

Mira Schoewe for Pilot newsmagazine.

“It’s important for people to open their minds, acknowledge that we exist too, even though we’re different” - Sophia Chanthapanya (9)

S“It’s important for people to open their minds, acknowledge that we exist too, even though we’re different” - Sophia Chanthapanya (9)

Sophia Chanthapanya, 14,

ophia Chanthapanya, 14,

moves between tables at a local restaurant, taking away plates and refilling drinks while customers talk over dinner. After school, she trades her homework time for a towel and tray, helping as a bus girl while her mother stays on her feet from open to close. For Sophia, this busy routine is less about earning money and more about supporting the effort that keeps her family business running.

Chanthapanya’s family business, known to locals as the St. Louis restaurant Pad Thai, is a product of Chanthapanya’s mother, Mimi Chanthapanya’s, lifelong dream of starting a business that would celebrate and share her culture with the United States.

achieve it because I’m an immigrant. We live comfortably, and we make some good money; we don’t need to look at the price tag before buying, so I think I’m happy. I don’t have to have a helicopter or a plane, y’know, I’m happy,” Guyer said.

“It was definitely about sharing culture and bringing Thai food to America. [My mom] wanted to show people the culture of Thailand,” Sophia Chanthapanya said.

According to Sophia, her parents tried to keep the increases small, concerned that higher prices might discourage customers or make regulars stop coming in. For Sophia, these anxieties regularly surface.

“It was definitely about sharing culture and bringing Thai food to America. [My mom] wanted to show people the culture of Thailand,” Sophia Chanthapanya said.

“It’s important for people to open their minds, to acknowledge that we exist too, even though we’re different. It’s nice to know other people and how they were raised.”

Mimi Chanthapayna immigrated to America after Sophia’s aunt, Mio Guyer. Their lifelong friendship began in high school and continued as they earned their bachelor’s degrees in Thailand, married in America, and eventually opened a business together.

Despite their success, this stability is not guaranteed. Like many immigrant-owned restaurants, Pad Thai has felt the overwhelming pressure of rising food costs tied to tariffs on imported ingredients, forcing the owners to raise prices just to keep up. According to Sophia, her parents tried to keep the increases small, concerned that higher prices might discourage customers or make regulars stop coming in. For Sophia, these anxieties regularly surface.

“We had to raise food prices a bit. We still made it affordable. My opinion was that we would have to raise prices a lot so that we could afford the prices and the ingredients, ” she said.

While her parents shield her from most financial details, the stress still finds its way home through work and fewer days off.

After Mio immigrated, she recommended her friend Mimi to a man who worked at a Thai restaurant in O’Fallon, Illinois; he would later become Mimi’s husband. Mimi then joined them in America, and the three worked at the same restaurant, gaining the experience they needed to open their own restaurant in Lamplighter Square.

After Mio immigrated, she recommended her friend Mimi to a man who worked at a Thai restaurant in O’Fallon, Illinois; he would later become Mimi’s husband.

Mimi then joined them in America, and the three worked at the same restaurant, gaining the experience they needed to open their own restaurant in Lamplighter Square.

“That’s how we learned how to do business here, and we had a background in cooking already, so we opened Pad Thai over here. It was very small, so we expanded. We have been open since 2013, so about 12 years,” Guyer said.

While her parents shield her from most financial details, the stress still finds its way home through work and fewer days off.

Beyond rising costs, immigration policies remain a constant presence in her family’s story. Mimi and Milo were able to open their restaurant only after navigating extensive legal requirements and background checks that make business ownership challenging for immigrants. Mio explained that while she and Mimi came legally, she worries for others who come to the U.S. looking for the same chance at security, only to face uncertainty and fear instead.

For Mimi and Mio, the success of their restaurant translates to safety, security and their idea of the “American Dream.” They were able to start a business that provides the family with the means to live comfortably and independently, without financial burden.

“Some people dream this big, and some people dream this big, but for me, I don’t dream so big, but I

“Everyone that comes here wants their life to be better; that’s why they cross the border. For some people, they come in and stay They don’t go back to their own country. It’s not right [to immigrate illegally] but those people take a chance to come here even though they become illegal, and they think that America will make their life better. But immigration is so hard for them that you have to pray for everyone, you know? And since we see and we know people, they don’t do anything bad. They just want to live here peacefully,” Guyer said.

“The brand is B. Darlin and I got it at Dillards.” - Maci Wissel (10)

O U R O U R

“The brand is B. Darlin and I got it at Dillards.” - Maci Wissel (10)

by Zoe Azzara - Staff Writer Fashion

R

RSELF

“My dress used to be my mom’s; she bought it in 2005. The label says Jessica McClintock for Gunne Sax.” - Cecelia Hahn (12)

“Target suit, Express shirt, Target pants, Express tie, Nordstrom shoes.” - Max

“Target suit, Express shirt, Target pants, Express tie, Nordstrom shoes.” - Max Harbuck (11)

How students are showing style at the Lindbergh Winter Formal.

SSTop right: A set crew member hangs up vines and other decorations.

Top right: A set crew member hangs up vines and other decorations.

Bottom right: An actor puts on stage makeup backstage.

Left: An actor performs during dress rehearsal.

ophomore Athena Thompson

shared her thoughts about her role as student director in Lindbergh’s production of “Mamma Mia!”

M: What inspired you to take on the role of student director?

A: I wanted to be a director because I wanted to be more involved with the theater space just in general. I already had known about Mamma Mia so helping the cast characterize and memorize was something I was extremely passionate about doing.

M. How would you describe your creative approach to this position?

A: My creative approach is very collaborative and focused on the “why” behind the movement. Since I know the story so well, I try to help the actors find the emotional truth in the songs so the performance feels more like a real conversation than just a musical number.

M. If you could describe the musical in one word, what would that be? (Lindbergh’s version, not Mamma Mia in general)

A: Radiant.

M. How do you manage your time and balance your school or home responsibilities with all of the responsibilities involved in your role with this theater production?

A: It’s all about staying organized and using my time during rehearsals efficiently. I try to get my schoolwork done in the gaps so that when I’m in the theater, I can give 100% of my focus to the cast and the production without distractions.

M. What impact do you hope this production will have on those watching?

BREAK

A LEG!

A Q&A with the student director of “Mamma Mia!”

with Mira Schoewe - Editor-in-Chief Fashion

Stage Director Anna Stimac calls out directions to actors during rehearsal.

A: I hope the audience leaves feeling uplifted and connected. Mamma Mia! is such a joyful show, and I want people to walk away with the songs stuck in their heads and a smile on their faces.

M. What is your artistic vision for the parts of the production you were in charge of, and how did you make that a reality?

A: My vision was to create a sense of community on stage. I worked on making sure the ensemble felt like a real group of friends and locals. We made this a reality through character-building exercises and focusing on small interactions that happen in the background of the main scenes.

M. What are some important lessons you learned from your time working on this production?

A: I learned that communication is everything. As a director, you have to be able to explain your vision clearly while also being open to the ideas that the actors bring to the table. It’s a team effort through and through.

M. What advice would you give someone else who might be hoping to be a student director in the future?

A: Go for it and don’t be afraid to take charge! Trust your instincts, but also remember to be a support system for your cast. Your job is to help them shine.

M. Who on the Lindbergh theater crew do you think motivated or inspired you the most throughout this production?

A: The stage management team. Seeing how they handle the logistics and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes really inspired me to stay organized and stay positive.

M. Where do you hope to go from here in your work with theater, whether just within Lindbergh’s theater program or even after high school?

A: I definitely want to stay involved with Lindbergh’s program for the rest of my high school career. Long-term, I’m interested in exploring more leadership roles and potentially pursuing directing or production in college.

Leila Thomas · Staff Writer

The

The Conformity Gate

Was it really worth the 9 year wait?

The long-awaited series finale of “Stranger Things” finally arrived, closing out a show that helped define the streaming era with its 80s nostalgia, character-driven storytelling and supernatural suspense. Years of production delays and rising expectations turned this final chapter into one of the most anticipated television moments in recent memory, especially as fans wondered whether it would deliver the emotional closure they’d waited years to see. Now that the finale is here, reactions aren’t landing in one clear direction. My own response reflects that blend of excitement and disappointment–and I’m not alone. Junior Jonathan Kunze shared a similar reaction, explaining the finale felt rushed with too many loose ends.

Tproduction delays and rising expectations turned this final chapter into one of the most anticipated television moments in recent memory, especially as fans wondered whether it would deliver the emotional closure they’d waited years to see. Now that the finale is here, reactions aren’t landing in one clear direction. My own response reflects that blend of excitement and disappointment–and I’m not alone. Junior Jonathan Kunze shared a similar reaction, explaining the finale felt rushed with too many loose ends.

production delays and rising expectations turned this final chapter into one of the most anticipated television moments in recent memory, especially as fans wondered whether it would deliver the emotional closure they’d waited years to see. Now that the finale is here, reactions aren’t landing in one clear direction. My own response reflects that blend of excitement and disappointment–and I’m not alone. Junior Jonathan Kunze shared a similar reaction, explaining the finale felt rushed with too many loose ends.

“What I find heartbreaking is everybody loves the show, and suddenly we need to pick it apart.”

“What I heartbreaking is everybody loves the show, and suddenly we need to pick it apart.”

“What I find heartbreaking is everybody loves the show, and suddenly we need to pick it apart.”

~ Martina Radwan, Hollywood Reporter~

“The plot of season five just felt reall y weak. It didn’t feel like any of the characters were written fully fleshed out. It all just came in really fast, [not] well written and really sloppy,” Kunze said.

~ Martina Radwan, Hollywood Reporter~

“Will’s coming out scene [was unnecessarily long], there were characters there that definitely shouldn’t have been there, like Murray, Robin and Steve. [The Duffer Brothers] didn’t [make it] feel personal. [The scene] felt like it was just there to be a character growth point, but [with no] character growth,” Kunze said. His critique opens up a larger conversation about whether the finale delivered the emotional closure fans waited years for. Another Lindbergh student, Sophomore Andrew Bleich, expanded on this idea, sharing his own concerns about how the directors handled key moments.

to be a character growth point, but [with no] character growth,” Kunze said. His critique opens up a larger conversation about whether the finale delivered the emotional closure fans waited years for. Another Lindbergh student, Sophomore Andrew Bleich, expanded on this idea, sharing his own concerns about how the directors handled key moments.

“I know this is controversial, but Will’s coming out scene [was] a lot less pivotal than the final battle, [yet] it took more screen time. That just shows how little the battle was. But I think there wasn’t enough action for 'Stranger Things,'” Bleich said.

In addition to these initial reactions, Kunze expressed that multiple scenes distracted from the

In addition to these initial reactions, Kunze expressed that multiple scenes distracted from the plot, taking the story off track instead of concluding the various storylines.

he long-awaited series finale of “Stranger Things” finally arrived, closing out a show that helped define the streaming era with its 80s nostalgia, character-driven storytelling and supernatural suspense. Years of production delays and rising expectations turned this final chapter into one of the most anticipated television moments in recent memory, especially as fans wondered whether it would deliver the emotional closure they’d waited years to see. Now that the finale is here, reactions aren’t landing in one clear direction. My own response that blend of excitement and disappointment–and I’m not alone. Jonathan Kunze shared a reaction, explaining the finale felt rushed too many loose ends. plot of season five just felt reall y weak. It didn’t feel any of the characters were written fully fleshed out. It all just came in really fast, [not] well written and really sloppy,” Kunze said. In addition to these initial reactions, Kunze expressed that multiple scenes distracted from the plot, taking the story off track instead of concluding the various storylines.

In addition to these initial reactions, Kunze expressed that multiple scenes distracted from the plot, taking the story off track instead of concluding the various storylines.

Q: What is your favorite “Stranger Things” scene?

A: “The end of episode

Four: The Sorcerer. I kind of knew [Will] was going to have powers, but the fact that shot was just so cool and seeing it in the show [as well as the play], killing the Demogorians, I thought that was really interesting.”

“I know this is controversial, but Will’s coming out scene [was] a lot less pivotal the final battle, [yet] it took more screen time. That just shows little battle was. But I think there wasn’t action for 'Stranger Things,'” Bleich said.

While many viewers had plenty to say about the pacing and emotional beats, the criticism extends beyond what made it onto the screen. American directors and creators of “Stranger Things,” the Duffer Brothers, received backlash for allegedly using ChatGPT during the writing process, sparking even more debate. As reported by Euronews, fans saw some suspicious tabs open on the show writers Matt and Ross Duffer’s

While many viewers had plenty to say about pacing and emotional beats, the criticism extends beyond what made it onto the screen. American directors and creators of “Stranger Things,” the Duffer Brothers, received backlash for allegedly using ChatGPT during the writing process, sparking even more debate. As reported by Euronews, fans saw some tabs open on the show writers Matt and Ross Duffer’s computers in the Stranger Things: One Last documentary. Hollywood Reporter Martina Radwan, who worked near the brothers during the making

Q: What is your favorite “Stranger Things” scene?

A: “The of episode Four: The Sorcerer. I kind of knew [Will] was to have powers, but the fact that shot was just so cool and seeing it in the show [as well as the play], killing the Demogorians, I thought that was really interesting.”

A: “The end of episode Four: The Sorcerer. I kind of knew [Will] was going to have powers, but the fact that shot was just so cool and seeing it in the show [as well as the play], killing the Demogorians, I thought that was really interesting.”

-Sophmore Andrew Bleich

A: “My favorite episode is when Max wakes up and Lucas tells hers he has been waiting for her the whole time and has always been by her side. I also love when she tells him she never needed her song, she just needed him the whole time.”

-Sophmore Brenna Shelton

A: “I would say like the whenever the [Vecna’s lair] turns into like the spider, I thought that was what was going to happen. Whenever it actually happened [I thought] it was pretty cool.”

Q: What is your favorite “Stranger Things” scene?

A: “I would say like the whenever the [Vecna’s lair] turns into like the spider, I thought that was what was going to happen. Whenever it actually happened [I thought] it was pretty cool.”

-History teacher Mark Pfieffer

A: “I would say like the whenever the [Vecna’s lair] turns into like the spider, I thought that was what was going to happen. Whenever it actually happened [I thought] it was pretty cool.”

A: “I would say like the whenever the [Vecna’s lair] turns into the spider, I thought that was what going to happen. Whenever it actually happened [I thought] it was pretty cool.”

-History teacher Mark Pfieffer

is everybody loves the show, and suddenly we need to pick it apart, Radwan said.

documentary, commented that she didn’t see any red-flag markers in the writers’ room. “What I find heartbreaking is everybody loves the show, and suddenly we need to pick it apart,” Radwan said.

"Stranger start. The show never relied solely on monsters or mystery–it thrived on the emotional familiarity of childhood friendships,

always been known for: its nostalgia. Season 5 leans heavily into that familiar 80s atmosphere, reminding fans of the retro charm to

Despite the controversy surrounding the writing process, many viewers ultimately returned to what "Stranger Things" has always been known for: its nostalgia. Season 5 leans heavily into that familiar 80s atmosphere, reminding fans of the retro charm that has defined the series from its first episode and continues to anchor its final season. To understand how this nostalgia resonated with viewers, history teacher Mark Pfeiffer reflected on how these familiar callbacks shaped their experiences of the season and what influenced their overall impression of not just the finale, but the show entirely

behind-the-scenes controversy, many viewers found comfort in the series’ ability to recreate a time that felt simpler, more

with viewers, history teacher Mark Pfeiffer reflected on how these familiar callbacks shaped their experiences of the season and what

“I grew up during that time period in the 80s. So, I remember all the different toys they were playing with. Even the [workout equipment] in the background that I remember seeing in friends’ houses. [I felt] a kind of weird nostalgia [while watching

He and other viewers felt the show accurately represented their childhood, and brought back memories that nothing else could recreate.

show had drifted from the magic of its earliest seasons.

Pfeiffer’s experience reflects a broader truth about why "Stranger Things" resonated so deeply with audiences from the start. The show never relied solely on monsters or mystery–it thrived on the emotional familiarity of childhood friendships, suburban freedom and the analog world of the 80s. Even as the finale sparked debate over pacing, writing choices and behind-the-scenes controversy, many viewers found comfort in the series’ ability to recreate a time that felt simpler, more adventurous and more human. For some, that nostalgia softened the finale’s flaws; for others, it only highlighted how far the show had drifted from the magic of its earliest seasons.

In the end, whether the "Stranger Things" finale was

and unresolved story-lines overshadowed the emotional payoff they had hoped for. For others, the familiar 80s callbacks and

He and other viewers felt the show accurately represented

even those who lived through the decade the show celebrates make one thing clear: "Stranger Things" has always meant

He and other viewers felt the show accurately represented their childhood, and brought back memories that nothing else could recreate.

friend asked me] if kids in the 80s really just rode their bikes around all day without their parents knowing where

But for 12 hours, [my parents] had no idea where I was and they didn’t care [as long as] I was safe,” Pfeiffer said.

friend asked me] if kids in the 80s really just rode their bikes around all day without their parents knowing where they were, and [the answer is yes], that’s the way we did things. But for 12 hours, [my parents] had no idea where I was and they didn’t care [as long as] I was safe,” Pfeiffer said.

“[A friend asked me] if kids in the 80s really just rode their bikes around all day without their parents knowing where they were, and [the answer is yes], that’s the way we did things. But for 12 hours, [my parents] had no idea where I was and they didn’t care [as long as] I was safe,” Pfeiffer said.

delays and anticipation, the show didn’t just end a story–it closed a cultural chapter that people weren’t quite ready to let

In the end, whether the "Stranger Things" finale was truly worth the wait depends on what viewers valued most about the series. Among particular groups, the rushed pacing and unresolved story-lines overshadowed the emotional payoff they had hoped for. For others, the familiar 80s callbacks and heartfelt character moments were enough to bring the story full circle. The mixed reactions from students, longtime fans and even those who lived through the decade the show celebrates make one thing clear: "Stranger Things" has always meant something different to everyone. And maybe that’s why the finale feels so complicated. After nearly a decade of theories, delays and anticipation, the show didn’t just end a story–it closed a cultural chapter that people weren’t quite ready to let go of.

19 Pilot Newsmagazine · Feburary 2026

up THE TRACK TEARING

What the new terrain could mean for student athletes

Lindbergh High School has

had a track program for over 50 years. By 2024, Lindbergh’s track had been weathered through snow, storms, flooding and extreme heat --- it’s safe to say a new track was needed.

And in early June of 2025, construction started for a brand new track. Junior Benjamin

by Kelly Forbes - Staff Writer Sports

Donaldson, a track and cross country runner at Lindbergh High School, expressed excitement for the new upgrades.

“Yeah, it’s nice to finally have a track, and the track’s usually meant [for] faster speeds, and you feel quicker on it, so I’m excited to feel fast,”

Donaldson said.

While construction took a little longer than

expected, it is finally complete and ready to be used. Many of the track and cross country athletes are very excited to use and practice on the new track and equipment. The new track offers significant advantages to both the track and cross country programs. The ability to train on newer and smoother surfaces makes track workouts much more beneficial, which can provide more direct results of a workout and prevent injuries.

“However, the construction of the track took longer than expected and caused issues for the sports during the fall season, specifically the boys’ and girls’ cross country teams.

Student athlete Olive Erpelding shared the team’s frustration with the timeline of the track being completed.

are softer, so that will be good for us.”

Evan Scheidenhelm, a student athlete who pole vaults and runs track and cross country, explained how amazing it is to use the track and other facilities.

“I’ve run on the new track a lot lately, and I do really like it, and I’m excited for the new pole vault pit and high jump pit, because our old one hurt whenever I landed on it. And going to other schools and seeing how their pits were really nice made me jealous. So now, we have our own,” Scheidenhelm said.

Student athlete Olive Erpelding shared the team’s frustration with the timeline of the track being completed.

“It was really frustrating because they told us it was gonna be done before cross country started, and then they told us it was gonna be done halfway through the season, and then they told us it would be done the last week of the season, and it didn’t get finished until the winter,” Erpelding said.

Despite the wait, the new track was finished, and the brand new facilities offered more opportunities for young athletes practicing on the new track. It also helps to keep runners from getting injured --- the old track was slightly uneven because of randomly filled-in patches. In addition, the old track used to be stiff. The new track is a bit softer, helping to prevent shin splints. Bryan Hilton, the girls’ head track and cross country coach, explained how he felt about the necessity of a new track.

“It was time. There were several areas that needed to be addressed, so it was good to do all at once,” Hilton said. “The rule is you want to train on a softer track and race on a harder track. New tracks

The track will be a big improvement for this upcoming season. While the delays caused their fair share of frustration during the cross-country season, the long-awaited arrival of the new track marks a turning point for Lindbergh athletics. With a softer surface underfoot and updated equipment for field events, the track team is going into a new season with more excitement. The coaches are very optimistic for this upcoming season.

“Absolutely, I always am. It is great to continue the efforts of current athletes and start the process for new ones. Our team culture is great, and I look forward to being a part of that every year!” Scheidenhelm said.

“Our team culture is great, and I look forward to being a part of that every year!” - Evan Scheidenhelm (11)

WHO ARE YOU BETWEEN CLASSES?

See what

See what your downtime says about you.

your downtime says about you.

See what your downtime says about you.

See what your downtime says about you.

by Kelly Forbes and Leila Thomas - Staff Writers

1.What animal describes you most?

4.What is your favorite subject in school?

1.What animal describes you most?

a.Dog

1.What animal describes you most?

a.Dog

4.What is your favorite subject in school?

a.PE or History

4.What is your favorite subject in school?

b.Cat

a.Dog

a.PE or History

b.English or Music

a.PE or History

c.Cheetah

b.Cat

c.Cheetah

b.English or Music

c.Speech and Debate or Theater

b.English or Music

d.Bunny

c.Cheetah

d.Bunny

2.What is your favorite color?

c.Speech and Debate or Theater

d.Art or Foods

c.Speech and Debate or Theater

d.Art or Foods

5.What season feels most like “you”?

2.What is your favorite color?

a.Blue or green

2.What is your favorite color?

a.Blue or green

5.What season feels most like “you”?

a.Summer

a.Blue or green

b.Black or purple

a.Summer

b.Fall

b.Black or purple

c.Red or orange

b.Fall

c.Winter

b.Fall

c.Red or orange

d.Yellow or pink

c.Winter

d.Yellow or pink

3.What is your favorite movie franchise?

a.Marvel

3.What is your favorite movie franchise?

a.Marvel

b.Harry Potter

a.Marvel

b.Harry Potter

c.Fast and Furious

b.Harry Potter

c.Fast and Furious

d.Kung Fu Panda

c.Fast and Furious

d.Kung Fu Panda

If you picked mostly A’s...

d.Spring

c.Winter

d.Spring

6.What is your “funny” toxic trait?

a.“I never clean my room”

6.What is your “funny” toxic trait?

a.“I never clean my room”

b.“I rehearse arguments I’ll never have in the shower”

a.“I never clean my room”

b.“I rehearse arguments I’ll never have in the shower”

c.“I will freeze during the winter, but the outfit is cute”

b.“I rehearse arguments I’ll never have in the shower”

c.“I will freeze during the winter, but the outfit is cute”

d.“I will trip over air but blame it on something else”

You are the dog --- loyal, energetic and lovably chaotic. You’re the kind of person everyone feels safe and happy around. You bring warmth, humor and big-hearted energy into every room. People trust you instantly because you’re genuine, dependable and always down for an adventure.

If you picked mostly B’s...

You are the cat --- mysterious, creative and quietly powerful. You move through life with a calm confidence that people notice even when you’re not trying. You’re observant, intuitive and a little bit dramatic in the most whimsical way. You don’t waste energy on things that don’t matter --- but when somethig does matter, you’re all in.

If you picked mostly C’s...

You’re the cheetah --- bold, fast and highly driven. If you want something, you go after it with no hesitation. People admire your intensity. You’re outspoken, fearless and not afraid to lead. You love a challenge and llike to show off. People always notice your confidence, your energy and the way you make normal moments feel cinematic.

If you picked mostly D’s...

You’re the bunny --- sweet, soft and calmly clumsy. You’re gentle, warm and full of soft energy that makes people feel instantly comfortable. You’re creative, expressive and have a naturally calming presence --- even when you’re tripping over air or causing accidental chaos.