DEAR SENIORS, DEAR SENIORS,

Over the course of the past year, you have shown us what it truly means to be passionate and hardworking, how to tell stories with integrity and make an impact on our school and community. You have checked every box for what a role model should embody and have made us beyond proud to send you off with this senior issue.

When we first entered newspaper class in 2020 and 2021, your class was the most welcoming and made room 1124 truly feel like home. Before the school year started, we had heard stories detailing how newspaper is unlike any other class, but you showed us what that truly meant. One thing that undoubtedly made our transition to newspaper even smoother was having all of your work as our example. Every article, design and photograph exemplified The Panther’s excellence and demonstrated what we needed to represent as staffers. We could always count on asking any of you for help with an interview or AP style, as you always encouraged us to ask questions and welcomed them with open arms. You helped us grow our confidence — whether personal or journalistic. You have helped us to find our voice within ourselves, and have empowered us to translate it into our writing.

Upon the reflection that prompted us to write this piece, we realized that all five seniors in newspaper class have broken barriers both inside and outside the classroom. From bake sales to philosophy pages, investigative and photojournalism, newsletters, student clubs, academics, community service, sports teams, book drives, advocacy projects and more, you all have proven what it truly means to be a Panther. You have used your voices to shed light on topics that have impacted our community and beyond: we have no doubt your class will change the world. It has always been said that Miami Palmetto Senior High produces some of the most successful individuals who make extreme contributions to society, and we cannot wait to see your names among these headlines.

Sam, thank you for showing us how far hard work and determination can take you. As your Co-EIC you have become my right-hand man and I could not have done it without you. Ella, thank you for always coming up with creative solutions to difficult problems. Ryan, thank you for showing us the importance of kindness. Vale, thank you for showing us loyalty and being a pillar of support. Michael, thank you for showing us the importance of sharing and listening to opinions.

Although COVID-19 cut many of our traditions short and altered many of your newspaper experiences, your class was the first to welcome us in. Though we will never understand what it is like to be a class of 2023 graduate, your daily dedication to our publication showed us all we need to know. The tight-knit group of your class that emulates loyalty and support is something we will continue and hope to preserve far into the future. We promise to keep The Panther alive and continue to prove that journalism, especially student journalism matters. We promise to follow in your legacy and will strive to make you proud. Although we have big goals for next year, with even bigger shoes to fill, do not worry. You have taught us everything we will need to know and are determined to pass on your legacy.

To the five newspaper graduates, we could not have asked for a better year with all of you. Although we will miss you all dearly, we know you are going to bring so much good to the world and make immeasurable impacts on society. We could not have asked for better mentors and supporters and know that in return we will cheer you on in any endeavor you chose to go after. Thank you for teaching us about perseverance, dedication and commitment; we truly appreciate each one of your contributions to our publication. From every design for print and online, every photograph, every interview, every copy rotation and finally, for every story, we recognize and are forever grateful for the hard work you have poured into The Panther.

Keep making us proud.

Geoffrey

Jason

Jila

Karen Salazar Valdes,

Ingrid