May 2021

Bell

The

The Senior Issue

May 2021

Volume 97, Issue 8

Liberty High School lhsnews.net

Contents

Letter from the Editor

Staff

Editor-in-Chief & Opinion Manager

Sarah Blankenship

Managing, Copy & A&E Editor

Caty Franklin

Online Manager, Indepth & Design Editor News & Features Editor Sports & Spotlight Editor

Derek Katzer

Lejla Aganovic Lucas Kilgore

Reporters Emma Stauffer Paige Hodges Regan Johnston Alex Klein

Ari Revella Lucia Umbreit Sadie Watkins DJ Binns

Photo Jay

Editor-in-Chief

Charlene Nguyen

Section Editor

Hattie Ludwig

Publishing the senior issue for The Bell means the torch has been passed to the new staff for the upcoming 2021-22 school year. I now have the biggest shoes to fill being the new Editor-InChief for the newspaper. To start, I’m Sarah Blankenship, and I’ve been on staff since my sophomore year. I started off as a reporter then I later became a Section Editor and Copy-Editor, and now I have the most important job on staff: Editor-in-Chief.

Because of our newspaper advisor, Jamie Gumina, and our 2020-21 Editor-in-Chief, Regan Johnston, I now get to continue The Bell’s legacy. I wouldn’t be where I am in my journalism career if it weren’t for them. I’m so honored to be taking over. Regan did an amazing job last year and The Bell was awarded the AllMissouri award at the MIPA Journalism competition. This means The Bell was in the top ten percent of winners in all of Missouri.

I most importantly want to thank my fellow leadership team and reporters. We’ve had to face a lot of hardships because of COVID-19, but in the end we were able to pull through as a staff and as a family. We now have a new staff, and I send my best wishes to the class of 2021, all of our graduating staff members and anyone else leaving the paper. I know our new staff will be able to accomplish great things and I can’t wait to show the school what we can do.

It will be a difficult goodbye because these seniors have become family. So even though they will be closing this chapter of their life, college will begin new ones (pages 16-17).

With this issue, we highlight the most memorable moments the senior class have had throughout high school (pages 6-7). LHS student athletes will also share unforgettable memories (pages 20-21).

There are many high school themed movies that everyone has seen, but do they realistically depict what it’s like to be a teen? Seniors share which movies they feel correctly represent or underrepresent what their high school year looked like (pages 18-19).

This school year has been full of new changes, and we’ve had to adapt, but there are new beginnings starting with the seniors leaving. This means there’s a whole new year ahead of us with new, exciting memories to come. Go Jays!

Photographers Julissa Balderas Kendin Bittiker Richard Burns Chloe Gerardy Nicholas Dillon Kalea Faubion Katie Glasford Claire Hamilton Santana Hiatt Bianca Jackson JP Ngugi

Brynna Namanny Brenna Oxley Collin Parker Dhanita Patel Henley Schmalz-Turner Erynn Sly Aidan Thieme Emra Tmusic Aidan Waggoner

On the Cover Seniors Kayla Shelton, Caitie Veilleux, J’Nai Moultrie, Sydney Zellak, and Penelope Anderson celebrate their final weeks as LHS students at the 2nd annual senior car parade on April 18.

Students decorated their cars and drove through Liberty, ending the parade with food trucks and music. “The end of senior year is very bittersweet. I can’t wait to start a new chapter in my life, but it’s really sad to leave all of my high school memories behind,” Veilleux said.

Photo by Santana Hiatt

2

The Bell

May 2021

Contents

Contents

Features

06

Making Memories

Reported by Lucas Kilgore

News

08

Con-Grad-ulations Reported by Caty Franklin and Sarah Blankenship

08

Photo by Santana Hiatt

Spotlights

10 11 12 11

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

13

Senior Nancy Gillespie Reported by Regan Johnston

Senior Jacob Fuller Reported by Paige Hodges

Senior Aryana Yazdi Reported by Emma Stauffer

Senior Javion Byers Reported by Ari Revella Contents

lhsnews.net

3

Contact Us Design by Aryonna Straws

Want to read more stories? Check out The Bell’s website at lhsnews.net or scan the QR code below.

Liberty High School 200 Blue Jay Drive Liberty, MO 64068 Editor-in-Chief Sarah Blankenship sbla1297@lps53.org Adviser Jamie Gumina (816) 736-5353

jamie.gumina@lps53.org

Twitter @TheLHSBell Online lhsnews.net

Questions, Comments or Concerns?

If you have questions, comments, concerns or a topic you want The Bell to respond to, write a letter to the Editor.

Your letter must be a maximum of 250 words and appropriate for an underage audience.

Writing a Letter to the Editor does not mean it is gaurenteed to be published.

Submit your letter to:

Opinion Editor and Editor-in-Chief Sarah Blankenship sbla1297@lps53.org

Time to Celebrate!

4

The Bell

May 2021

Contents

Contents

InDepth

14

16 17

Moving on Up

Reported by Lejla Aganovic

Opinion Senior Columns

Opinions by Regan Johnston & Emma Stauffer

Senior Columns

Opinions by Paige Hodges and Ari Revella

14

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

A&E

18

Is High School Much of a Musical?

Reported by Sadie Watkins

Sports

20 18

Goodbye Athletes

Reported by Lucia Umbreit

Photo by Katie Glasford

Contents

lhsnews.net

5

Features

Making Memories Seniors share some of their favorite moments from high school.

Reported by Lucas Kilgore

Design by Lejla Aganovic

“Hold on to what you have because you never know when it could get taken away.”

- Senior Sal Bonadonna

SalBonadonna The competition was tight, before anybody knew that the pandemic ahead would take away Senior Sal Bonadonna’s most enjoyable moment in high school was when he went to Central High School for a speech and debate tournament. This was memorable because of what COVID-19 took away from them.

“COVID-19 took away a lot, so whenever I think about speech and debate tournaments I think about that. I wish I would of held on longer. COVID-19 really

took that away, and we really don’t realize what we had. I wish I would’ve created more moments like that.”

Bonadonna took his time to improve his skills not only as and individual but as a team.

“If it was just me, I would’ve enjoyed it a lot less because we are a team and they make those moments for me,” Bonadonna said. “Hold on to what you have because you never know when it could get taken away.”

Photo Courtesy of Sal Bonadonna

BaileeMiddleton

On the wild river, the only thing that can be heard over the aggressive tides are senior Biddle Middleton and her friends’ laughs. Middleton’s favorite experience of high school was when she took a trip with the volleyball team to Colorado for a tournament. While they were there, they went white-water rafting.

“It’s memorable because it’s an experience that, without being involved in volleyball, I probably wouldn’t have had,” Middleton said. “I just think that goes to show how important getting involved is and how many opportunities can open for you.”

When she reflects on it, she can think about the deep connections she made with her teammates and friends in Colorado.

“I wish I would have branched out a little more. The group that I went water rafting with was people I probably hung out with a little more in town. I wish I would’ve stepped out of my comfort zone and met with a different group of the team and hung out with them.”

6

The Bell

May 2021

Features

Photo Courtesy of Bailee Middleton

Features

Aryonna Straws

Senior Aryonna Straws’ most memorable moment of high school was when she went to see a play about Martin Luther King Jr. her sophomore year with the rest of the diversity council.

“During the Martin Luther King play, we got to learn a lot about prejudice through his eyes and what made Dr. King the way that he is and what his story was starting out as a student, similar to us,” Straws said.

“In that moment, I was definitely shocked and reflective, and I was inspired.”

This made Straws think about her own life and her time through high school growing as a person. It made her reflect on the racial issues that were in effect in her community and country.

“It made me reflect on my own life through high school,” Straws said. “The play starts with Dr. King in college, similar to our age and the feelings that he was feeling as a black man in America, and the things that he was experiencing and saw and the anger he felt. It was the anger I was feeling throughout my high school experiences. Yet, he rose and created such a change and inspired so many people. That was something that made me realize I had the power to do that as well. I think that anybody has their own platform and can make a change.”

Photo Courtesy of Aryonna Straws

Graham Mattox A sense of dedication and devotion filled the field day. The LHS soccer team was ready to win Districts no matter what.

Senior Graham Mattox’s favorite moment of high school was when he won Districts with his soccer team his senior year in 2020. The time and effort he put in for multiple years to become a great player finally paid off.

“It was the first time the soccer program had won Districts in a very long time,” Mattox said. “It was a lot of work put into the season. Grinding out those hours. We accomplished a lot, and we were very

proud to see it come to fruition and us winning a District title.”

The boys had a great season of 14-4 leading up to this, which made the game extra special.

“What really made the moment special to me was leading up to it,” Mattox said.

“We had a really good season, and I think what made it really special was how much I think we deserved it and how much we worked for it. It really came to us. It wasn’t luck. It was our hard work we put into it and I feel like we accomplished a lot.”

Photo Courtesy of Graham Mattox

Features

lhsnews.net

7

News

Con-Grad-ulations Liberty Public Schools is celebrating class of 2021 seniors with old and new traditions.

Reported by Sarah Blankenship and Caty Franklin

The 2020-2021 school year looked a lot different for the class of 2021. COVID-19 changed the way students went to school, participated in clubs, extracurriculars and even how they saw their friends.

Now, seniors have even more changes to endure on top of everything that already looked different in school this year.

Four different groups, the school district, Student Council (StuCo), a faculty parent group and an outside parent group, put together events to celebrate this year’s seniors. Some of these events look similar to previous years, some are brand new, but the goal remains the same: to celebrate the class of 2021.

“The overall goal is for seniors to get to come together as a whole group who have really encountered a lot of challenges throughout the past years,” StuCo advisor Leslie Meunch said. “They get to celebrate before the next step of life happens. Which is one step closer to adulthood, and as a nice closure to this high school experience they’ve had.”

The school district recognized the difficult changes for seniors, parents, teachers and the students themselves, determined to be together for this year’s graduation ceremony, held on May 23, 2021, at Sporting KC Mercy Park.

StuCo planned a senior breakfast, prom and is involved in planning graduation.

The planning process for these events has been much more difficult this year, with after school planning much more limited than it has been in previous years.

Senior Graysen Yahne, a StuCo executive, plans to attend many of the senior events and has been involved in the planning process. Traditionally, junior StuCo members plan prom, but this year the seniors took on that responsibility as juniors aren’t allowed to attend due to COVID-19 restrictions on the amount of

8

The Bell

May 2021

News

Design by Lejla Aganovic

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

News

Photo by Santana Hiatt

people that can attend. Seniors felt as though juniors shouldn’t be forced to plan a prom they weren’t attending.

“I’m excited,” Yahne said. “It’s definitely going to be a lot different because it used to be at Arrowhead in the big Chief’s stadium. I know what I want to see, and I know it’s not going to be that, but I think we’ll be able to make the most out of it.

We’re going at it with a different approach, so it’ll be fun.”

Muench helped plan all of the events, and wants to help celebrate seniors in any way possible.

Seniors are missing out on things like a large prom, ceremonies celebrating academic and sports achievements and many more because of how many people are allowed to attend an event at one time.

“There are so many things that are beyond our control, and we can’t always change,” Muench said. “I have really appreciated how our seniors have understood the circumstances.”

The planning process was much more involved, due to the pandemic. StuCo had more time constraints placed upon them and stricter regulations to keep everyone safe and healthy. With only being in school two days a week until the Return to Learn plan was put into place, StuCo had to coordinate with everyone’s schedules to

ensure that everyone was available and there wouldn’t be too many people in one place at one time.

“Unfortunately in these circumstances, time is not on our side and that’s the main thing,” Muench said. “That’s the biggest hurdle. Additionally, the decisions are not always ours to make. That includes the

County Health Department and beyond.”

Another group planning events is a committee of four staff members who are also parents of seniors. This includes receptionist Jane Wolfley, assistant principal Bridget Herrman, science teacher Pamela Koch and security team member Sheri Rogers.

This committee planned events such as a pancake breakfast on March 24, 2021, and a hot chocolate social Feb. 3, 2021.

“When it was only two days a week, it was just for seniors to see each other,” Wolfley said. “It was a time for them to socialize, when they maybe wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.”

Senior Jacob Wolfley, Jane Wolfley’s son, agreed, and enjoyed seeing students at these events.

“The goal of that whole committee was to bring the seniors together and make up for the events they’ve missed out on,” Jacob Wolfley said. “It was just showing up and hanging out, and it was a really fun time.”

Parents have also been involved in the end of the year celebrations. An outside group planned a senior car parade over Facebook, held on April 28, 2021.

Students met at LHS and formed a line to drive around Liberty. Many spectators cheered for the seniors as they passed by.

Although this senior year has looked different, many groups of people were involved in making the end of the school year special for 2021 seniors.

Photo by Santana Hiatt

First Page: Senior Aaron Rearick begins to dig into his pancakes at the senior pancake breakfast on March 24. Top Left: Seniors Gavin Goetz, Hayden Lucas, Trevor Harman, and Luke Jines drive through Liberty in the senior car parade on April 18. Bottom rught: Taylor Anderson smiles and waves in the bed of her truck at the senior car parade on April 18.

News

lhsnews.net

9

Spotlight Senior

Nancy Gillespie

Gillespie’s outlook on the past four years and the wisdom she hopes to pass on to others.

Reported by Regan Johnston Design by Lucas Kilgore

With the end of another school year comes another group of graduating seniors.

Though each senior has reason to celebrate now that they are graduating, there is one senior who stands out in particular because of her achievements, upbeat attitude and how she positively impacts those who know her.

Senior Nancy Gillespie has been very active throughout the school these past four years. She is a part of the National Honor Society and orchestra. She is especially proud of being the section leader for the chamber orchestra second violins.

“I think it was amazing to have that experience in the first semester,” Gillespie said. “Working with the section and getting them all prepared for this piece that we were going to play.”

Gillespie worked to find creative ways to lead her section, coming up with metaphors to describe each section’s role to help them understand a piece of music better. From these metaphors she came up with, the chamber orchestra second violins fondly dubbed themselves the ‘Fat Rats’ from Disney’s “Cinderella.”

“We were playing this piece called Suk Serenade, and I did this whole metaphor for each section,” Gillespie said. “First, violins were obviously Cinderella; the violas are kind of the fairy godmothers, they put the stuff together, laying down the beat; the cellos, they’re the dog, they’re kind of a little bit everywhere, a little clumsy; and we’re the fat rats. We’re just the ugly, disgusting part that just needs to be. We needed to get on the little hamster wheel, and we just had to get going.”

Gillespie’s hard work and unique perspective paid off when the chamber orchestra finally got to the day of

10

The Bell

May 2021

their performance.

“It was all worth it when, before we got on stage, our orchestra teacher said we made the most improvement,” Gillespie said. “I think we all had really good potential, and we really shaped up, moved together and improved together, which is really important in music.”

Her dedication does not stop at just orchestra. Many of her teachers have also noticed her work ethic, including math teacher Matt Kiser.

“Nancy was always a terrific student for me and always willing to participate,” Kiser said. “She has a great outlook and persistence to finish her homework for accuracy to make sure she does well for exams. I think she’ll be great anywhere she goes.”

Gillespie credits all of her dedication to a philosophy that the maternal side of her family came up with called ‘Lemons Grit,’ which gives her family the strength to overcome any obstacle.

“Lemons was my mother’s maiden name, which is what Lemons Grit refers to,” Gillespie said. “It’s the tenacity and the determination that you should have at any sort of subject in order to power through and to finish it.”

Spotlight

Photo courtesy of Nancy Gillespie

Different members of her family had their own obstacles that they had to overcome, which helped give Lemons Grit meaning.

Their stories give Gillespie strength when she has her own obstacles to overcome.

“My great uncle really struggled in the divide between doing undergraduate and going to grad school. He really pushed through it by editing and studying to be able to jump over the divide to get his PhD, which I so admire,” Gillespie said. “Or my Nana, my mom’s mom, went to beauty school when she was seven months pregnant. And, she had to work to be a single mom and to take care of my mother.

I really admire her, and I’m so glad to be her namesake.”

Armed with a great attitude and stubborn perseverance, Gillespie plans to go to William Jewel College to study nursing and continue to help others. Though she’s leaving high school, she won’t be forgotten by the friends she’s impacted along the way.

“She’s kind, reliable, honest and empathetic,” senior Jillian Hough said. “I think she’ll be amazing at whatever she ultimately chooses to do, and she can do whatever she sets her mind to.”

Spotlight Senior

Jacob Fuller Senior describes his future plans and reflects on the past four years of high school.

Reported by Paige Hodges

High school is a time of great growth, both physically and emotionally.

Throughout students’ four years in high school—aside from the teen drama, failed hair-dos and crazy social media trends— they become more mature, are able to take on more responsibilities and gradually reach independence. Senior Jacob Fuller

describes high school as a chance for an abundance of learning experiences and exposure to unique opportunities that he attributes to transforming him into the person he is today.

“Since freshman year, I have realized what I want to do with my life. As related to more than just my major, really just all aspects of my life,” Fuller said. “Where I see myself, what goals I have, what I want to be involved in, or continue to be. High school just made me really excited for what is to come after. And, I am very grateful for what Liberty high school has given me.”

Fuller has played rugby, soccer and participated in several clubs including the LINK crew, National Honors Society and Student council. He plans to attend the University of Arkansas and major in software or computer engineering. A subject that Fuller says is one of his many passions.

“Ever since I was younger, I have liked

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

computers and learning about technology. I have a 3D printer, and I love creating stuff.

It just really interests me. I also really like logical problem solving and think that’s why computers appeal to me,” Fuller said.

According to his childhood friend and future roommate, Niklas Olsson, anyone who knows Fuller will attest to his bright future.

“I have known Jacob since elementary school. We were neighbors, and we have played on the same soccer team through high school,” senior Niklas Olsson said.

“He has always been freakishly smart, hard worker and very involved in the community. He is an amazing leader and is just overall fun to be around.”

In addition to his college aspirations, Fuller has big dreams for what he wants his life to be like and the type of success he wants to gain.

“I really want to start my own business.

It doesn’t have to be associated with engineering or anything, but at some point in my life I just really want to be my own boss, ” Fuller said.

A goal his french teacher of three years, Jessica Lumetta, said will be more than possible.

“Fuller is an excellent example of how hard work brings success. In the next five years, I see him doing something meaningful with his life,” Lumetta said. “I have no doubt he will be doing something to make the world a better place.”

As Fuller wraps up his final days as a senior and begins to embark on life after, he is not only thinking about the mark he wants to leave on the world, but he is also reflecting on the legacy he is leaving behind at LHS. “My main goal is to have made a positive impact on the people that are in my life. I hope I made their days better one of these days,” Fuller said.

College is right around the corner for seniors, but dreams don’t stop here for Fuller. He has big plans for the end of his high school career and last summer before heading to Arkansas. Fuller’s goal is to finish the school year strong to solidify his grades and then spend his summer in Puerto Rico to gain more lasting memories with friends. But before Fuller parts, he wants everyone to know this: “I love LHS, and I feel it has prepared me for life after. I am truly set up to do well, and I plan to one day bring my kids here,” Fuller said.

Spotlight

lhsnews.net

11

Senior

Aryana Yazdi

Senior talks debate and finding where she belongs.

Reported by Emma Stauffer

It’s this year’s debate Districts, senior Aryana Yazdi and junior Bela Sullivan have just finished their qualifying round against a team they knew would be difficult to defeat, based on their previous rounds.

Yazdi and Sullivan head back to debate teacher Tim Baldwin’s room and sit in silence, anxiously awaiting results. Yazdi recalled the exact moment Baldwin met Yazdi and Sullivan’s eyes and nodded, with a simple action communicating that they were going to Nationals.

Not only did they qualify for Nationals, but were District champions.

“The amount of adrenaline that rushed

through me, ‘oh we won the round. We are going to Nationals,’ it was like an unreal experience,” Yazdi said. “Out of the four years I’ve been in debate, all I’ve wanted to do was win a District spot and have the chance to go to Nationals. I never thought that I would actually win the championship, beating out every other team.”

Yazdi joined debate freshman year, taking the class on accident, not realizing Competitive Theatre was a separate program. However, after listening to Baldwin talk about debate, and experiencing it for herself, she knew she was in to stay. Yazdi is already looking forward to preparing for Nationals, which is June 13-19.

“I’m super excited to prepare for the topic,” Yazdi said. “That’s always been one of my favorite parts of debate, prepping and trying to figure out different ideas and different arguments that people are going to run. I’m also just super excited to see different people that compete from different states against me. I don’t know how people from California or Ohio debate versus how we debate in Missouri.”

Sullivan doesn’t question that Yazdi deserves all of her success. She has enjoyed their time as debate partners, and her favorite memory with Yazdi is getting boba in Gladstone after each tournament.

Spotlight

“I think the reason she is a successful debater is because she is just the hardest worker,” Sullivan said. “She works harder than anyone I’ve ever met, and she puts all of her energy into it.”

Baldwin agrees, and values her dedication to debate.

“Hard work is really a function of success in the activity,” Baldwin said. “How much harder are you willing to research? How much more time are you willing to invest in preparing yourself? I think that attribute is principled in how she has been successful.”

Debate has been a place of belonging and growth for Yazdi. However, Yazdi’s high school experience hasn’t come without its challenges. As a first generation American, Yazdi has found being an ethnically diverse person in a suburban area challenging at times and sometimes a struggle to find where she fits in.

“Living in this suburban area of Missouri, it’s been really hard for me to kind of figure out what kind of people I fit in with and who I don’t because I am so vastly different with my ethnicity and the way I think,” Yazdi said. “Both of my parents are from Iran, so me being from the Middle East kind of sets people off the wrong way.

They don’t really take it the best way. So, one thing I really wish people understood is that where you are born or where you come from does not determine your personality or your morals.”

Yazdi has used her perspective as an opportunity to be involved in as many activities as she could. Outside of the debate room, Yazdi was a student ambassador, member of Key Club, Mock Trial, Kintsugi literary magazine and more. Although a great accomplishment, this amount of involvement did not come without stress. She has a message for anyone else in a similar situation.

“It’s been something that I’m super proud of, but it’s something that I’ve stressed myself over a lot,” Yazdi said. “Getting good grades, taking all the AP classes and those things, one of the things I’ve learned through high school is as much as you should be involved in so much, you also have to take care of your mental health and be able to take a step back.”

After graduation, Yazdi plans on attending St. Luke’s University to study Biomedical Engineering. She then wants to continue on to law school, where she will become an intellectual property lawyer, combining her passions for science and law, while being able to help others.

Photo by Chloe Gerardy

Spotlight

lhsnews.net

12

Spotlight Senior

Javion Byers

Athlete questions whether to move forward with college sports.

Reported by Ari Revella Design by Lucas Kilgore

As the school year comes to an end, students reflect on what made this year so different from the others. With now recently going four days a week in-person, students are in the final stretch of the 2020-2021 school year. Senior Javion Byers is doing the same, with putting his heart and soul into sports, including both basketball and track and field. The basketball team took 2nd place in Class 6 this past season with this team finishing with the 2nd most wins in the program’s history, going 26-5.

With that in mind, Byers’ plans are to keep up with sports into college, having a few colleges to consider.

“My plan after high school is to play college basketball or go for track and field,” Byers said. “I’m undecided on where I want to go. I want to major in business management or entrepreneurship.”

Looking back on his senior year, Byers is happy with his performance in basketball.

“Getting to the State championship this year was a huge accomplishment, as well as being selected to play in the Missouri and Kansas All-Star game,” Byers said, Byers believes that he could’ve improved on his senior year if COVID-19 wasn’t around.

“My senior year has been pretty good, although COVID affected a lot,” Byers said, “But, I’m thankful I’ve been able to compete in the sports I play. Seeing me and my friends excel in everything we do and how we learned from older students when they were there, and we try our best to pass down the same thing to our younger class of students. It’s pretty cool.”

Senior Javin Shaw has known Byers since seventh grade, creating a tight friendship that can’t be broken.

“Javion is an amazing teammate and even

13

The Bell

May 2021

Photo by Erynn Sly

better friend,” Shaw said, “He is always willing to go out of his way to help no matter the circumstances, and I can always count on him to have my back on and off the court. We have been teammates since eighth grade and there is no one who matches his intensity and desire to get better.”

Byers and Shaw saw themselves growing as players as they continued playing throughout middle school and high school.

“One of my favorite memories with Javion is being able to play by his side in Springfield for State, especially because it is something we have dreamt of since we were in the eighth grade. When we finally punched our tickets our senior year, it made the trip that much more special.”

Science Teacher Pamela Koch has Byers in Biology II, and has been able to watch him in competitive sports since his freshman year, and credits him with having a leadership role in class.

“He has definitely improved in each sport over the years as a result of growing as a

person,” Koch said. “He’s been working very hard, and he’s just been improving, as well as having a lot of natural athletic ability. When you add the hard work with those attributes, you get great outcomes.”

Spotlight

Photo by Erynn Sly

InDepth

April

Moving On Up

Recruit receives an enlistment bonus of $38,000 from the U.S. Navy.

14

The Bell

May 2021

InDepth

Reported by Lejla Aganovic Design by Derek Katzer Photos by Charlene Nguyen

When someone is called into the principal’s office, it is safe to assume that they aren’t expecting to receive a giant check from the U.S. Navy. However, this was exactly the case for senior Alexander Pittman. He was presented with a surprise enlistment bonus of $38,000 for his entrance into the U.S. Navy’s Nuclear Engineering Program, a field that is high in demand.

“I honestly didn’t expect it,” Pittman said.

“It was a very pleasant surprise. I really just expected to talk about grades because Dr. Adams had told me that we were going to talk about my grades. But low and behold, I was getting paid by the Navy.”

Petty Officer Cedeno and Chief Petty Officer Curran from the Gladstone recruiting office awarded the check to Pittman. After taking the U.S. Navy’s Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), which is a test used to determine one’s position, Pittman was told he received a score high enough to become a Nuclear Engineer. This is something only 2% of applicants receive.

“I didn’t even know what it was until they had me take a practice ASVAB, and I scored

InDepth enough to qualify for the position,” Pittman said. “They told me that an enlistment bonus would come with it, and it made me more interested.”

Pittman plans to use his enlistment bonus to begin a savings account, donate to charity and further his education. After entering the U.S. Navy, Pittman will go through the Nuclear Program, which includes rigorous college-like courses, such as Physics and Nuclear Science, in order to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Nuclear Engineering. He aspires to have a long term career in the Navy, where he feels he can do the most with his life.

“At the current moment, I see myself still in the Navy, twenty years from now, working on my title and trying to advance myself,” Pittman said. “I do hope to get as much as I can out of it, and I look forward to making this something that can become a career for me.”

Students who wish to enter the armed services must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. All Navy recruits must take the ASVAB test to determine their placement within the Service. After being accepted and placed into a position, training lasts seven to eight weeks at a Boot Camp stationed nearby.

Recruits can serve in the Navy while also earning an education through courses specific to their training, such as Nuclear Engineering. For those looking for more information about how to join the Navy, contact Petty Officer Bynum at 6900 NW 83 St SUITE A, Kansas City, MO 64152, the U.S. Navy Recruiting Office in Gladstone.

Senior Alex Pittman holds his 38,000 dollar signing bonus check after accepting a future job as a nuclear electrical technician for the United States Navy. The program is extremely selective and requires certain scores on the ASVAB, or the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Pittman was surprised with the award on April 20 in The View during fifth hour. “Personally, I don’t think I’ll touch the signing bonus. Perhaps I’ll invest a portion of it, but I feel it would be a better choice to save it,” Pittman said.

InDepth

lhsnews.net

15

Opinion

Regan Johnston Editorial by Regan Johnston Photo Courtesy of Regan Johnston These past four years, I have had some successes, some struggles and some of the greatest friends and teachers I could ask for. Even though I’m moving on with my life, I think I will look back and remember my high school years fondly.

I’ve always considered myself a pretty average person. I’m not exceptional at any single subject, but I am acceptable at most things I do, so when I am successful or achieve something great, it’s a pretty big deal for me. Throughout these years, I have managed to keep a 3.9 GPA, make amazing friends, get into a good college, learn to accept myself and be happy with who I am, become the Editor-in-Chief of The Bell (a dream I have had since freshman year) and lead The Bell to get the highest award in the state a student newspaper can get, the All-Missouri Overall Newspaper Award.

When I was a freshman, I did not think I would be capable of doing any of this. It was out of the realm of possibility.

It was around the end of sophomore year

Design by Sarah Blankenship

that I decided to try to improve myself. I wanted to start being happier about my life. I started avoiding the things that gave me anxiety, worked hard in school and accepted myself for who I was, even if other people didn’t accept me because of it.

As soon as I made these changes, I became a lot happier and more confident. I could finally see a hopeful future for myself and was excited to live each day.

The people I have met along the way have also given me a more positive outlook.

I am incredibly thankful for every teacher I have had throughout these four years, and I wish them the best. I will also cherish the friends I have made here. Even though I may not see some of them after I graduate, their kindness and friendship really helped me while I was here. I hope I too had a positive impact.

Though I am a little nervous about leaving The Bell behind, I have full confidence in the new leadership team, and I know they are going to do even better than I did. The support I have gotten from The Bell all these years has been priceless, and I wouldn’t trade my experiences with them for anything.

Today on May 11, 2021, for the final time, it’s a great day to be a Blue Jay.

Emma Stauffer Editorial by Emma Stauffer

Photo Courtesy of Emma Stauffer

Ever since I was young, I’ve been obsessed with stories. I started by loving the sound of the mother’s voice telling me stories, before I realized I could read them myself. As I learned how to read and discovered the wonder of books, I soon found myself lost in books and the diverse and wonderful stories they held. Before long, I learned that I could tell my own stories. As I got older, I started writing short stories, poetry and even a few failed “chapter books” in my middle school years, thinking I was bound to be the next great world renowned author.

My love of storytelling and my apprehension of joining newspaper compelled me to take a Journalism class.

I suffered from horrible anxiety the summer before my freshman year, to the point where I felt physically ill and would obsess over what high school would be like 24/7. I was anxious my first day in class, a condition that has been a part of my entire high school experience, but I ended up enjoying the course.

16

The Bell

May 2021

Opinion

After encouragement from Lori Oyler, the former newspaper advisor, I joined newspaper my sophomore year.

I don’t think I’ve ever really said this to anyone on staff, but when I first joined newspaper, I had to strongly fight the urge to quit. I never thought I would be able to fit into the tight knit bond of the newspaper kids and the communication they had with

one another. My social anxiety would make me want to roll up into a ball and cry each night when I got home. I was fighting every bone in my body that was telling me to remain quiet. But slowly, I realized that I could just be myself, and that I could have fun too. We joked with each other, had food Friday’s, played Mafia and created issues each month to go out to the school.

When I won All-Missouri at State that year, I felt like I was on top of the world. I was so proud of myself for winning.

I sometimes struggle so much about how other people view me and my view of myself that it inhibits me and what I want to achieve and do. Honestly, I’m excited to move on from high school. To say that it was the best years of my life would be lying, but I think that’s ok because that means the best years of my life are still to come. Closing chapters of life and opening others is an integral part of life. Of course I’m nervous about college, but I’m also excited. I am excited to figure out what my story is going to be.

Opinion

Paige Hodges Editorial by Paige Hodges

Photo Courtesy of Paige Hodges

When I was in middle school, I used to search YouTube for the “best speeches ever.” I was in speech and debate class and was always looking for inspiration.

Through my constant YouTube searches, I discovered commencement speeches.

I watched video after video of students standing in front of their class speaking on one of the biggest days of their lives.

I imagined myself in each video as the speaker. I smiled when the speaker smiled, laughed when they made a slight joke and always felt a little more inspired than before. When it became closer to the end of eighth grade and the start of my high school career, I thought about those videos.

I thought about how amazing it would be to speak on my class’s graduation day. But as eighth grade became ninth, and ninth became eleventh: that dream began to fade and soon became forgotten.

But, this school year I was reminded of my aspiration to be in one of my own “best speeches ever” videos when the opportunity to audition was presented.

I was feeling empowered after reading my old journals and decided to go for the chance.

On May 23, 2021, I will be speaking to my class on graduation day. I will be giving

the speech I always dreamed about. I don’t know how to sum up the past 12 years of school, but I think that my goal of speaking at graduation becoming reality is a good representation of what I have learned and who I am becoming. I have learned I am strong, capable and I am becoming the person who goes for what they want. I have my parents, loved ones, LPS and the people who I have met along the way to thank for helping me reach this place.

I am proud to be a BlueJay, and I am even more proud of my success. I don’t know exactly what my future will entail, but I know there will be times that I fail, most of all, I know that I will always prevail. I am leaving LHS with the utmost respect for everyone who has always pushed me to do my best. So, this is goodbye for now—can’t get rid of the Hodges just yet, still two more to go—and a thank you from a forever Blue Jay.

Ari Revella Editorial by Ari Revella

Photo Courtesy of Ari Revella

Moving to Liberty in March of 2019 was a huge step in my life, finally getting a breath of fresh air. Getting to experience a new school is fun, yet scary. Now that I’m looking back at all of it, I’m glad I moved here. Being extremely obsessed with music tends to be an odd hobby, I listen to an average of 10 hours of music a day, I own over 200 vinyl records, it’s a bit much. But when I decided to move here, I decided on one thing; to dedicate myself to something.

I wanted to find something to go into college knowing I would love. Before then, I did nothing. So, I listened to an unimaginable amount of music per day, staying up every night until 3 a.m. trying new albums and discovering new artists.

One day, I wrote down my thoughts on an album that I kept coming back to.

One thing led to another, and I’m writing reviews for the school newspaper. I’m comfortable enough to call it my dream.

Being able to write my thoughts down is something I cherish. I never put writing and music into perspective together, but

being able to put my opinion into view and being able to expose others to the music I love, and to create a healthy conversation, and that’s my goal overall. I’m not really a talkative person with anything else, but whenever someone talks about music

of any kind, I’ll want to hop into the conversation in hopes of making new friends. It’s my way of being friendly with others here.

Music is something I find myself to be passionate about because it’s something that brings the best out of people. I love being able to have something to write about that people can actually find interesting, or in the context of the themes of a certain album, relatable.

That element of discussion is something I never got before, and now being able to bring something like that into my routine is genuinely refreshing, going from sharing your thoughts on something to recommending other things you love. It’s an amazing feeling.

I don’t have the most lustrous background, nor am I the best student around, but I’m here because I enjoy the mutual passion shown by students. Being able to be passionate about things you truly love is the heart and soul of this school.

Opinion

lhsnews.net

17

A&E

Is High School Much of a Musical?

Is high school like the movies, and is there any harm in glorifying high school?

Reported by Sadie Watkins

Design by Caty Franklin

Are we really all in this together? Are popular Disney Channel movies such as “High School Musical” and “Lemonade Mouth” accurate when it comes to depicting the high school experience?

According to a few members of the 2021 senior class, not exactly.

“You’ve got things like Riverdale, and I don’t think we’ve had any murders at this school hopefully,” senior Charlotte Brookins said. “There’s so much drama in those shows and there is at school but now so extreme, like ‘you murdered my twin brother’ I don’t think that’s happened here.

There are some things they get right like the awkwardness and the feeling of being a freshman and being terrified of everyone and everything.”

When it comes to high school movies and TV shows, there are a few key

characteristics, stereotypes, dramas and not a lot of focus on the academic part of high school. Many shows and movies include stereotypes about different types of students. But some seniors have found that the stereotypes are inaccurate and that students can be a part of one or multiple different things. Students can do sports and theatre or art and journalism.

“I would say it [stereotypes] was hurtful because it gave me personally a wrong view of highschool,” senior Caleb Goodwin said. “When you get to high school, you’ll find what you want to do and do that and just hang out with those people and that’s what you’re known for. And once you get here you realize you can do and be a part of anything you want.”

In shows and movies, characters often go through world-altering drama that

Expectations

vs

consumes their entire lives. Whether it’s a fight with another student or an argument with a significant other, students in media always seem to always be caught up in allconsuming tragedies.

Seniors say this is not accurate at all.

They have found that there is drama in social groups, but not to the extent of these shows. In reality, students are constantly juggling their social lives, academics, home lives and countless other things, unlike what is shown in the movies.

“I feel like those things make high school seem a lot scarier than it really is. It’s really not that bad,” senior Charlotte Brookins said. “The stereotypes that you see are more harmful if you come in expecting all these big things and drama. You’re going to be disappointed. Plenty of amazing things happen in high school. They are just on a

Reality

Photo by Katie Glasford

Bottom Right: Students walk in the one way hallway during passing period. With everyone returning back to school four days a week, hallways are more packed.

18

The Bell

May 2021

A&E

A&E

Piece of “AAdvice for

people going into their senior year: really make every moment count while you're here. ”

Photo by Claire Hamilton

lower level.”

People are another element of unrealism in shows and movies. In TV and movies, high school juniors and seniors are often played by actors who are in their twenties.

According to the website The Liberator, this can be harmful. “When juniors or seniors see these actors, they are looking at fully grown adults, which holds them to an unrealistic standard of what they should look like,” The Liberator also said in an article titled “Critiquing the Unrealistic Portrayal of High School” by Nia Orakwue.

This can make high school much more intimidating for new students.

“I think people think high school is more scary than it is,” Goodwin said. “When you get here, you see seniors that are over six foot tall and they are scary or brooding.”

Some seniors have found that movies are not accurate because not only does the plot not focus on academics, but it lacks the magic found in small moments.

Romanticization, glorifying high school, in movies often gives people a bad outlook of high school if they are about to enter it and if they are already in it can make students feel like they are missing out on these ‘life changing memories’.

Despite the high school students portrayed by adults, drama and hurtful stereotypes, there are some movies that are accurate, such as “Mean Girls,” where the bully Regina George makes fun of other girls behind their backs.

“I think looking back at the stereotypes and looking at movies like “Mean Girls,” that sort of happens, but it’s not as extreme and not as hard to fit into a new group,”

-Senior Charlotte Brookins senior Storm Alicie said. “If you try to be friends with people like the popular kids, they’ll probably be friends with you.”

According to Alicie and other students, not only can students be a part of other social groups, but people can be who they want without as much ridicule shown in the movies. High school students in present day are often encouraged to be themselves by teachers and inspirational quotes scattered around classrooms.

“Stereotyping is something that’s definitely improved over the past years,” Brookins said. “But when you go into high school, and you aren’t necessarily someone who fits into a lot of places and you see those stereotypes of people eating lunch in the bathroom, I feel like those things make high school seem a lot scarier than it really is. It’s really not that bad.”

High school is not as intimidating as is portrayed in the films, and not all events have to be glamorous and big.

“A piece of advice for people going into their senior year: really make every moment count while you’re here,” Brookins said. “Make the most of what you have.

Don’t be afraid to leave high school because it’s important to move on from things, but don’t take the time you have left here for granted either.”

High school students won’t miss out on finding the love of their life or their best friend, it’s movies that exacerbate the high school experience that often makes students feel like they’re missing out. The film industry lacks what a lot of seniors have found as the most memorable part, the small moments.

A&E

lhsnews.net

19

Sports

Goodbye Athletes Senior athletes share their favorite stories from their high school sports career.

Reported by Lucia Umbreit

Design by Lucas Kilgore

Anne Brunk

It was the final hoorah of the season. It was what senior Anne Brunk and her team had been working for since the beginning in April. That Saturday in January, The Sapphires took the stage at the Lee’s Summit North Regionals to compete their pom routine against other area high schools. The dance team has competed in the pom category since the start of the program, a style that is known for the poms and sharp movements. The team took their spots and the music began.

“We were pretty nervous since it’s our biggest competition, but we’d worked so hard that we were confident in what we could do,” Brunk said.

She was right. The Sapphires placed first in their pom routine, a goal they had set at the beginning of the season.

“Walking offstage, we all felt like we had done our very best, and we knew there was nothing we could have done better,” Brunk said.

The Sapphire program has been a very valuable experience to Brunk, who is thankful for the lessons and friends it has brought her.

“The community aspect is great because I’ve met so many amazing people through Sapphires,” Brunk said. “I’ve learned a lot of lessons other than just how to be a good dancer. I’ve learned how to be a good teammate and become a leader of my own.”

State event a few weeks later. For senior Emma Hood, it was an opportunity to swim while also bonding with her teammates.

“It was really cool to swim in such a big, nice pool and spend the weekend with all my friends,” Hood said.

She’s been a part of the swim program since her freshman year and appreciates all the friendships that swim has brought her.

“All the swim girls are like my little sisters, and I’m just so proud of them for everything we’ve accomplished, especially this year,” Hood said. “I love being around them because they’re all my best friends. I miss it already.”

Emma Hood

Nerves were abundant in the Mizzou Aquatic Center at the University of Missouri-Columbia in early January 2019.

Families packed the stands as the smell of chlorine hung in the air. It was the largest meet of the year for the women’s swim team, where they were able to scope out the competition before competing at the Photo courtesy of Anne Brunk

Photo courtesy of Emma Hood

Left: Junior varsity sapphires and senior Anne Brunk leaps for a photo on the football field. Right: Varsity swimmer and senior Emma Hood holds up her medal after a meet at Blue Springs in the fall.

20

The Bell

May 2021

Sports

Brady Maher

It was a classic comeback. After placing last at their first meet in the fall, the men’s cross country team turned their season around to earn third place at the State competition in 2020, a perfect ending to Brady Maher’s senior season. The past two years, the team had placed eighth at State and had their sights set on a trophy for the coming season. After their last place finish, the team worked hard to improve, placing third at Districts in order to qualify.

“Nobody really expected us to do well, and we kind of defied the odds,” Maher said. “It was super unexpected.”

However, it wasn’t just the team’s goals that motivated them, but the memory of Coach Tim Nixon, who passed away during Maher’s freshman year in November of 2017.

“Everything we did, running wise and training wise, we always knew Nixon was proud of us,” Maher said.

He and the other cross country runners were quick to credit Nixon with creating

the positive culture in which they hope cross country is known.

“I wasn’t expecting the culture to be as great as it is,” Maher said. “When I came in as a freshman, I didn’t really know where I fit in high school and getting into cross country is something I’m very thankful for.”

Liam Bogue

Sports

matches he played that day in order to show that his team shouldn’t be underestimated. Bogue is grateful to have been a part of the tennis program for the last four years.

“I enjoy playing tennis because it is very competitive, and we have a great group of guys that I love being around,” Bogue said.

For 10 year tennis player Liam Bogue, the stand out memory is a classic underdog story. It was 2019 at Bennett Park, and the men’s tennis team was once again facing Rockhurst High School. They had never won against Rockhurst before, and to an outsider, it might appear that the outcome was already decided. However, Bogue and the rest of the tennis team knew something that no one else did.

“We went into the match knowing that they would underestimate us,” Bogue said.

“We were trying to come out strong and catch them off guard.”

It worked. For the first time in history, the men’s tennis team beat Rockhurst. For Bogue, he aimed to put his all into the two

Photo courtesy of Brady Maher

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Left: Varsity cross country runner and senior Brady maher runs at a meet at Raymore-Peculier high school in mid fall. Right: Varsity tennis player and senior Liam Bogue backhands the ball at the net at the April 6 match against Rockhurst.

Sports

lhsnews.net

21

Paige Adams

Hats off to the Grads!

We are so proud of you and we love you! Go Pager wager!

-Mom, Dad, Payton & Jack

Dani Orr

We love who you are Danielle. Don’t ever stop being you and your cute little self. Always keep your wings open and see how far you can fly.

We Love you XOXOXOXOXOXO

Aaron Goens Congratulations Aaron!

We are so proud of all you have accomplished.

Always remember to follow your heart. Map out your own journey and have the adventure of a lifetime!

-Mom, Dad, Meg, Zac, Nan, Pops & Grandpa

-Dad, Mom, Dawn and Scooter

Larissa Schrag

Congratulations Larissa! Through all of the ups and downs, you’ve been able to achieve so much. As proud as I am of your academic accomplishments, I’m heartened by the grit and kindness that you’ve shown along the way. Your character honors Mom, who is smiling with us today. As Gandalf says, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” No doubt as you end this chapter of your life to begin another, you will continue to make the most of the time that has been given to you.

-Dad

Nicholas Porter

Austin Hamilton

Austin, we are so incredibly proud of all your hard work.

You have handled this tough, Senior year with a positive attitude and a dedication to always giving your best!

We know that God has great plans ahead for you!

-Mom and Dad

Victoria Stein Congratulations! You have worked so hard over the last four years. We are so proud of you and what you have accomplished. We can’t wait to see what you do next.

-Dad & Mom

We are so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. No matter what path you choose to go down in life we will always be in your corner no matter what. Big ole hugs.

-Dad & Alyssa

Aimee Wang

Kyle, It has been our greatest privilege to watch you learn and grow. You will be one amazing pilot, and we cannot wait for the day to fly with you. We fully expect that tuition money back in plane tickets (just kidding! Maybe not). Keep standing up for others as well as yourself and look beyond the surface.

We love you always.

-Mom and Dad

Kyle Hernandez Be ready for your college life!

Believe in yourself and fulfill your dreams!

-Mom & Dad

Salvatore Bonadonna

Jacob Lynn

Salvatore! Dad and I are so proud of you. You are one of the most responsible and respectable kids we know.

You have a heart of gold and we love you, can’t wait to see your bright future!

Congrats Jacob! I know this last year hasn’t been normal, but you have handled it well.

Love you! Can’t wait to see what future holds for you!

-Mom, Dad, & Ryan

Owen Carrillo

Dear Owen, We are so proud of the young man that you worked so hard to become! We have enjoyed following your academic and sports activities throughout the years. We know that you are going to make the world a better place! No matter where you go or what you do remember how much we love you. Congratulations!

-Grandma Connie & Grandpa Paul

Allie Reece

-Mom and Dad

Ryan Pfannenstiel We are so proud of all of your accomplishments. We cannot wait to see where life takes you. Congratulations!

-Mom, Dad & Sara

Noah Koch It’s impossible to calculate how much joy you’ve brought us over the past 18 years.

Watching you grow into a young woman has been the honor of our lives!

Noah, We are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments throughout high school. We wish you all of the best in your college adventures.

-Mom, Dad, Trevor, RJ, & Kyle

Mom, Dad, Nicholas & Brooklyn

Ava Murphy

Sam Torno Behind you all the memories.

Before you all your dreams.

Around you all who love you.

Within you all you need! We are so very proud of you! We love you!

- Mom, Dad, Logan and Thomas

Sam, We are so proud of you and how you have managed this unique senior year. You have worked hard, persevered and kept a positive attitude.

We are your biggest fans and can’t wait to see what happens next. Keep following your dreams and Go Wildcats!

- Dad, Mom and Ella

Bailee Middleton

Bailee, We are so proud of all you have accomplished in your four years at LHS. There are so many wonderful things in store for you in the future.

You are an amazing person!!

We love you very much.

Quin Ackerson

- With love, Dad, Mom and Sis

Lauren Shepherd

Words cannot express the love and pride we have for you---your fun personality, tremendous work ethic, compassionate heart and ability to do anything you set your mind to. We’ll always look forward to sharing in your adventures, celebrating your achievements, and comforting you in the challenging times.

Be fearless, stay true to yourself and go make your mark on this world, Lauren!

- Mom and Dad

Logan Parco

- Love, Mom and Dad

Tyler Galetti

Congratulations, Tyler!

You have overcome many challenges along the way, especially with the craziness of 2020, and you have done it with grace and dignity. We could not be more proud of you! You are so talented, a hard worker and a thoughtful and kind person. You will do great things in life! Now on to the next chapter...

- Mom, Dad and Joe

We are so proud of you! You are a such a talented kid and more importantly a thoughtful, kind and funny person who is a joy to be around. We love who you are and can’t wait to see all the things you will do in your life. We are and will always be your biggest fans. We love you!

Logan, we are proud of you for working hard and making the most of your high school education despite the curve balls COVID-19 threw your way. We are even more pleased about the authentic and thoughtful person you are becoming. College is an exciting opportunity to open a new chapter in your life, and you get to be the author. Albert Einstein said, “Only those who attempt the absurd can achieve the impossible.” We have been amazed to watch as you have chosen to push yourself to learn and understand challenging concepts and skills. Press forward to achieve your dreams...dreams that some may deem impossible. We have confidence that through your inquisitive nature and tenacity you can accomplish your goals. Stay sweet, stay fierce, stay you and always stay close to God. Thanks for including us on your journey! We will always be here for you!!

- Love you always, Mom and Dad

Jacob Davidson You made it!! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!

- Love, Mom and Dad

Ian Wooldrige

Hannah Stillman Ian, What a crazy ride this year has been and you have made the best of it. We are your biggest fans and we are so proud of you! Know you are loved always!

Hannah, We are so incredibly proud of all your hard work and efforts. Beautiful inside and out you make our world a better place. So excited to see what’s next for you. Love you sweet daughter.

- Dad, Mom, Kaylee and Rhett

Amorese Avila

Reese, All of your hard work is finally paying off...and a full year early!

You’ve taken tough classes, gone to summer school and studied hard. You’ve handled the disruptions due to COVID-19 with a fabulous attitude. Your future is bright and waiting for you! You will be a rock star in the medical research field and do amazing things!

- Mom and Dad

Grant Owen

We’ve watched in amazement as you’ve grown into the person you are today, and we’re watching with great anticipation to see what you become. With your talent and determination, the sky is the limit! We are so proud of you. Congratulations!

- Mom, Dad and Grace

- Team Avila

Kenneth Lenger

Kage, Best of luck to you on your next adventure. You’ve taken this year of “it is what it is” and made it “the best it could be.” We are so proud of you and will be awaiting anxiously to see the very best that is yet to come. Go get ‘em!

Anna Achille

- Mom, Dad, Clarissa and Kayley

Mia Sullivan

I smile because you are my daughter. You laugh because I am your mother. Our adventures have been epic and I can’t wait to watch the extraordinary life you build. You are my soulmate and proud isn’t a big enough word to describe how I feel. Enjoy your next chapter and enjoy your life. But keep straight A’s. I love you more than deep fried tacos.

- Kisses, Momma

Anna, Every challenge you have been given, you take to the next level.

As parents, we couldn’t ask for anything more from our daughter.

You demonstrate intellect with character,understanding with compassion. Our words of advice to a wonderful life: the most valuable thing you can make is a mistake. You can’t learn anything from being perfect. In giving we receive. Last, be yourself, everyone else is taken…

- Mom and Dad

Grant Ferguson

Grant, We are so proud of all you have accomplished in high school. You are loyal, committed to your beliefs, and absolutely brilliant. You make us so happy and proud, and we can’t wait to cheer you on into your future. We are so thankful that we get to be your family.

- Mom, Dad, Sophia and Lillian

Victor Martin

Congratulations on all you have accomplished in your LPS years. I am so proud of you and the amazing young man you have become.

Someone who sets goals and works to achieve them, like you do, has so much success ahead of him. I can’t wait to see how far you go! Always stay true to yourself, Vic! Love you!

Meghan Smith Dad, myself and Dylan are so proud of you and can’t wait to watch you navigate your amazing future!

-Love, Mom and Dad

-Mom

Ashton Maloney

Congratulations, Ashton!

Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. Keep working hard and you’ll achieve whatever you set out to do. We are all so proud of you! Hook ‘em!

Josh McGarity We are so proud of you! You have grown into an amazing person. Take pride in how far you’ve come, and have faith in how far you will go!! We love you.

-Mom, Dad & Abby

-Mom, Dad, Jaelyn, Aunt Alicia, and Uncle Jasen

Kai Breeden

You have been a miracle from the time of your birth until now. So proud of how healthy, intelligent, and frankly beautiful you are.

Throughout this trying time you have kept your nose to the grindstone and earned almost an Associate Degree in the process. Keep working and walking in the Lord’s grace.

Avry Asby

-Mom

Hattie Ludwig

Avry, may you always see the beauty in herself like we do. Your calm, patience, wise, and steadfast nature will take you far in this life.

Even your imperfections make you incredibly special and unique. In a time of uncertainty you show grace and spread hope to those you touch.

You will do great things beyond all our imagination because your heart is honest. Continue to lead with love everyday. Fail often then get up and fail again because with each attempt to gain assent that means you are learning humility, strength, and power. Take time to laugh at yourself, cry tears of pain and joy, and always always always...STAY WEIRD! Love you to the moon and back again and again.

-Mom and dad

Mahala Miller We are so proud of the amazing young woman that you have become. Keep working hard and pursuing your passions. We look forward to see what the future holds for you. We love you.

-Dad, Mom & Ethan

We are so proud of all your success and growth. You are an amazing young lady and you will go on to making the world your oyster. We love you!

-Love Mom & Matt

Katie Glasford

Penelope Anderson You are smart, beautiful, talented, caring and have exceeded my wildest expectations! I’m excited to see what’s next. I love you!

We are so proud of all you have accomplished in your four years as a Liberty Blue Jay! Wishing you the best in the future.

-Much love, Gramma and Gramps

-Mom

Tamajong Ndifor

Ethan Garcia You did it -- and like everything you do -- did it your own way and before everyone else! It’s been a fun ride. We sure do love you and can’t wait to see what you do next!

-Mom, Dad & Ashton

Being your mom has brought me so much joy and happiness and I cherish every second that I am privileged to spend with you. I am so proud of you and the young man you have become and I am thrilled as you prepare to start the next phase in your life. May you have the courage to stand risks, the strength to be compassionate, and the wisdom to be humble. Remember there are no mistakes, but lessons in life.

Love yourself and your choices and always remember that all is possible through faith and determination. Enjoy every minute of what is ahead and believe in the beauty of your dreams, because I believe in you.

Know that I will always be here for you and that I love you very much!

-Love, Mom

Holly Mast

Holly, This exciting time you have been waiting for is finally here! Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! We could not be even one bit prouder of you - both in your accomplishments and what you stand for every day of your life. We love your honesty, uniqueness, depth of thought, work ethic, and most importantly, your strong faith and obedience to God’s call. You have been a great role model for your siblings, and even your parents:). The Lord has great things in store for you, Holly! We are so excited for you as you begin this new chapter of life. We love you!

Desire’ Merriman Congratulations to you Desire’ for your big achievement! We love you very much! We are very proud of you! We can’t wait to see what your new journey that waits for you!

-Dad and Christina

-Mom, Dad, Hank, & Heather

Jillian Arnold

Jaxon Emry Jillian, We are very proud you. We love you.

Psalm 28:7 -Mom & Dad

Jackson, It is with much happiness that we wish you a happy graduation!

We are incredibly proud of your big accomplishment and the person you have become. Our hope for you is that you always do what makes your heart happy!

-Dad, Amanda, Mom & Mikey and ALL your siblings!

Emma Stauffer

Emma, We are so proud of you. Your hard work and determination have paid off. Now as you go on your new journey, remember all the power lies within you. The possibilities of the amazing things you can do are endless.

We can’t wait to see the beautiful story you will write for yourself.

Cole Bower We’re so proud of you!

-Mom & Dad

-Dad, Mom & JJ

Rebecca Davisson

Rebecca, You are loved more than words can say. Your mom and I and all the family wish you the very best moving forward, beyond what you’ve known for so many years, stretching yourself to chart your own path, your own life journey. Your smarts, good looks, caring heart, humor, resilience and grit will take you where you are meant to go. As one chapter closes, another opens…

Follow your hopes, dreams, and desires. Listen to your heart, let what feels right help inform what is right… for you. Stand for you, for what you believe in, for what you know to be true. Risk answering your calling as only you can. Remember, every new beginning starts with some other beginning’s end.

My God bless you. May God watch over you. May you always choose life. May you always know and be blessed with the love of family and friends.

Emma Hood Congratulations Emma! We are so proud of you and love you so much!

-Mom, Dad, and Ava

- Mom and Dad

Gracie beal

We knew your heart for Jesus when you turned to me, at the age of four, to ask me if you could go on a mission trip to Haiti with our church.This love of Jesus, and the love of missions, has continued to grow. I know you will reach many through your nursing degree you plan on pursing and your love of missions. We are so excited for you to attend Southwest Baptist University and pursue God’s amazing plan for your life!

-Mom and Dad

Cameron Eldridge

Alissa Scimeca

Alissa it seems impossible that you are preparing to graduate from high school. I remember with tears in my eyes dropping you off, my cute sweet little girl to the Montessori school which was the beginning your education. Fast forward and you have arrived at your high school graduation.

I remember watching you four years ago with a tear in my eye as you walked up to the doors of the school thinking how excited yet nervous you were. Now I’m watching you walk out of those same doors a beautiful, educated, confident and caring young woman. I’ve seen you overcome and defeat some difficult situations, as well as watched you enjoy some the best times in your life. I know that you will be successful in your life, always believe in yourself as I believe in you, be confident, ambitious and determined to go for what you want in life. Always stay true to who you are, which is a beautiful individual that has so much to offer. We are so proud of you Alissa!

Congratulations.

-Momma, dad, brother and nani

Aryonna Haylee Straws

You look good in a tuxedo and we know you will look awesome in your graduation cap and gown! We were proud of then, are proud of you now, and always will be no matter where life takes you. Love forever, -Mom and Dad

Aryonna Haylee, You are an absolute ray of sunshine and we could not be more blessed to call you daughter and sister. To be a part of your life over the past 18 years has been more than exciting! The memories we have all made together, the videos that have been recorded, the pictures that have been taken are all proof that some stuff you just can’t make up! We have all grown together, you have educated me, that your history will always have its eyes on you, but you keep your eyes on your future. Please remember, the only approval you ever need is your own.

Be the change you want to see! William Jewell College will soon find out just how blessed they are to have someone like you on campus!

Love you!

-Mom, Dad, Alexa Marie, Craig Anthony, Ayraka Bree & Aliyah Lanee

Gracie Thompson

Sam Savastino We are so incredibly proud of the young man you’ve become and we can’t wait to see all the great things you’ll accomplish. Congrats!!!

All our love!

I’m so proud of you! You are so smart and beautiful...

Love you -Mom

-Mom, Dad & Anthony

Ellie Stewart

Jacob Weaver We are so proud of you and excited to see what the future holds! Welcome to the next chapter!!

-Dad, Mom, Andrew, Nicolas and Logan

We are proud of you and all you accomplished. We are so excited for your next adventure at M-I-Z-Z-O-U and cannot wait to see where it takes you. We will continue to cheer you on from the sidelines and support you in all you do. We love you to the moon and back!

-Mom and Lauren

Ian Dickerson

Jacob Wolfley You made it! You have an amazing future ahead, starting with Arizona State University. It’s going to be a fun ride, and we are right here rooting for you.

Much love!

-Mom and Jarrod

Luke Smith

Luke, we are so proud of what you have accomplished on and off the field. You have shown us what it means to be a well rounded genuine person. Your involvement in National Honor Society and Student Ambassador just to name a few of the activities you were selected to be in, have shown your dedication. Watching you compete in multiple sports and excel has brought so much Joy, more than you will ever know! We are so proud of your nominations to Homecoming and Court Warming in this trying Covid-19 year! Your drive, no quit, hardworking and caring ways are all things that will help you go far in life.

We are grateful to have you as our son. We know that you have big things in life ahead of you. We will always be here cheering you on!

-Love Mom and Dad

Jacob, We are so excited for your future! You can achieve anything you put your mind to. The world is yours to discover, and you’ll get an excellent start at South Dakota Mines. Keep looking up and dream BIG! -Mom, Dad & Ben

Landon Robinson We are so proud of how you have handled this crazy year and all your achievements throughout high school.

Can’t wait to see what you do as a Razorback. We love you!

-Mom, Dad, and Ella

Olivia McMorrow

Olivia, Yay! Congratulations on your LHS graduation.

You’ve worked diligently and earned this celebration of YOU. It’s been our honor to walk beside you as you’ve grown to be a strong, smart, kind, joyful, godly young woman.

Clearly, perseverance is in your DNA! Keep shining and being the beautiful soul that you are. Go get this life that God has created just for you! We couldn’t be more excited for you and your future.

Charlotte brookins Congratulations! We are so proud of your hard work, persistence, determination, and resilience. You are an amazing sister, daughter, and friend, and your kindness and empathy shines through. We love you so much and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

-Love, Mom, Dad, Riley, and Lauren

-Love, Dad, Mom, Graham & Luke

Logan Young

Congratulations on all your athletic and academic achievements. We are so proud of you and the young man you have become. We know you will continue to do amazing things. Keep your head up and remember you can do anything you put your mind to. We love you.

-Dad and Jen

Mason Younghans

It is hard to believe this day is already here. Your smile, charm, wit and sense of humor…you have brought so much joy and laughter to not only us but to everyone you’ve met. Son, we have had a roller coaster of emotions with your decision to enlist, but make no mistake, we are deeply and whole heartedly proud of your choice to serve your country. We know you are following your internal compass. We have guided you this far, but now it is time for you to take the wheel and find your place in this world. We are so proud of you and the amazing young man you have become.

Congratulations and safe travels!!

ARMY STRONG. -Mom & Dad

Maura Strauch

Olivia Peetoom Congratulations Maura!

We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

-Love, Mom, Dad & Addy

Olivia (Miss O, Liv) We are extremely proud of you! We have enjoyed watching you grow into a beautiful, smart, artistic, and talented young lady. We want you to make new friends with your sense of humor and kind heart, try new things with your beautiful smile, and don’t forget to have FUN! You are going to do great things. Go make your mark on the world! We love you!

-Mom and Dad

Jacob Lyon

Even though your graduation year looked a little different for you, the achievement is still the same. You’ve put in the same hard work. You’ve learned and grown so much. And we couldn’t be prouder. We have been praying for you from your first day of school and will all the way to graduation —for pride today, hope for tomorrow, and for love and support to go with you whatever paths you choose.

-Love, Mom & Dad

Dylon Braughton

There has never been a dull moment since your birth!

You keep us on our toes!

Continue to stay true to your faith and follow your heart.

We love you are so proud of you. We look forward in anticipation of your amazing future!

-Mom and Dad

Trevor & Zach Harman

were small you always created your Jayden Christensen ownSincepath,younever following, always looking for an

adventure. We are so excited to see which path you choose in this next chapter. Go confidently in the directions of your dreams, live the life you’ve imagined. You have always been quiet, but we have learned that when you say something it has meaning. So, go out into this big old world and in your quiet way make a loud statement.

Adventure, compassion, effort, kindness, perseverance and laughter will take you far.

Always remember you are braver than you know, smarter than you think and loved more than you know. We will be right here, cheering you on as you pursue your dreams. Live a great story!

“Stay Golden” 2 Timothy 1:7

We are so proud of you! The future is bright!

- Mom and Dad

- Dad, Mom and Payton

Jason Cross

We love how heartfelt, intelligent and articulate you are. Having watched you grow into such a considerate young man has been amazing! We’ve seen you be a leader, a supportive teammate and a coachable learner in several arenas over many years. As much as we have appreciated all your other positive attributes, we also just enjoy spending time with you. Hearing you stand up for what you believe, watching you respectfully challenge people and seeing you cause others to truly think about what they value most, has been powerful to witness. We look forward to seeing what you will do next. We will always be proud of you and most of all, we love you more than words can express!

Alex Blair Congratulations, Alex!

We are so proud of you and the person you have become.

You are a wonderful son and have been such a joy in our lives. We wish you all the best with your future.

Love you!

- Mom and Dad

- Mom and Dad

Vincent Bonadonna

Brady Maher

Vincent, Dad and I are so proud of you.

You are such and incredible young man. We love the person you’ve become, keep reaching for your goals. Love mom and dad!

- Mom and Dad

Brady, You are kind, respectful and polite.

You have integrity and humility, you love and cherish your famly and friends and you are strong in your faith and convictions. We are so proud of who you are. Keep working hard. Keep running hard. Keep loving life. To you and your entire class... being the Class of 21 has not been easy and I sure wish it had been different for all of you, but it’s just a chapter in your story. It’s about time to go write a new chapter. I mean you were seniors in 20/21 and it is almost done, you guys can handle and conquer anything the future holds!

- Mom and Dad

Alexander Osborne Alex, You made it! We are so proud of you for graduating high school and even more proud of who you are. Your future it bright! Love you!

- Dad, Mom, Brendon and Trevor

Caleb Cahill Pride fills our hearts as we celebrate your last year in high school and think back on all the wonderful memories you have created.

May your next steps be blessed and success all yours.

Congratulations!

- Dad, Mom and Chloe

Matthew Henning

Nathaneal Collum Nathaneal, we are so proud of you. As you begin your adult life remember how much we love you and will always be here for you.

Congratulations, Matthew!

Go forth and be bold, be courageous and be your best!

- Nancy, Ron and Bryan

Amayiah Hall

You have always held yourself to the highest standard and strived for perfection.

Good enough will never be good enough for you; you want the absolute best. I’m so proud of the woman you’ve become.

You’re caring, considerate and hard working. Keep grinding, excelling and reaching for your dreams. Although you’re “grown” you’ll always be our little My-My. People will forget what you say and what you’ve done, but never how you made them feel! God couldn’t have blessed this Earth with a better daughter or friend! We love you more than words can describe!

Congratulations on your high school graduation and completion of your first college semester. This life is yours for the taking! Get it big dog!

- Mom, Daniel, Nana and Papa Bill

Patrick Steinkamp You make us very proud and we look forward to the great things you will accomplish at college and beyond.

- Dad, Mom, Christopher and Nicholas

- Mom and Isaiah

Trenton O’Bannon

Trenton, Ma, Daddy and Monroe LOVE you more than words can express. It’s bittersweet to see you grow up. Though we don’t want to let go, it’s time for you to leave the nest. You have the ingredients to achieve anything you envision – effort, energy, persistence and positivity. You won’t control what life throws at you, but you will control how you overcome it. There will be ups and downs, but we will always have your back. Shoot for the stars and land on the moon.

Never temper your ambitions for fear of failure or what other people think. Just put in the work.

No matter where you go or what you do, you will always be Monroe’s gummy bear, Mommy’s Wootie and Daddy’s T-Dawg. We are proud of you and can’t wait to see what comes next.

Regan Johnston

Congratulations on your graduation. We are all so proud of your accomplishments and even prouder of the person you have become. Though your next adventures will put distance between us, know that you are never alone. We love you!

- Mom, Dad, Brock and Erin

CONGRATULATIONS!

Nathan Bilz

Davis McMullen Congratulations, Nathan!

We are so proud of you! You are an amazing young man and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!

- Dad, Mom and Emily

Congrats to you, Davis! We are so proud of you and your accomplishments throughout high school and especially this year! You are a young man of great character and you make us smile!

We love you!

- Mom, Dad, Kendall Lewis and Stella

Ellie Rogers

Ellie, We have always been so in awe of you, with your talent there is no limit to how much farther you will go. We are so excited that you get to live your dream and play college soccer, you are going to be amazing!

We will always be right there, supporting you every step of the way. Stay fierce, passionate, sweet, but most of all stay YOU! We love you so much. :)

Maddie Nofsinger

- Mom & Dad

- Mom and Dad

Annika Foust

Kayla Griffin

Maddie, we are so proud of your accomplishment and how you’ve handled this past year! With your determination and passion you can do anything!

You’re a bright light that continues to shine! We love you so much!

Kayla, we are so incredibly proud of you!

You will do great things in this world and we are so excited to see what’s next for you!

- Mom, Dad and Evan

Annika, you bring so much joy and happiness to our family! We love every minute we share with you and are so proud of the young woman you are. We are excited about the next chapter in your life. Your contagious smile and drive to work hard in all that you do inspires us each day. You will go so far! We are always here for you! Dream big and remember that faith, hope, trust and love are essential. We love you!

- Mom, Dad, Will and Britta

Jacob Fuller

Jacob, We are so proud of all you have accomplished in these short four years! Your hard work will open doors throughout your lifetime. Take time to savor the little and big wins. Find work that supports your passions, hold tight to friends that bring you joy, show gratitude for all that you have been given by paying it forward any chance you get and know your family will always be your biggest fans!

Dawson Vogelaar Dawson, We are so proud of you and of the young man you are becoming. Your future is bright! We look forward to watching all of your plan come together. Love you as far as the east is from the west!

- Dad, Mom, Annalise and Elliot

- Mom, Dad and Sammy

Parker Campbell

Parker, We are so proud of the smart, talented, hard-working young man you have become. We can’t wait to see what you accomplish in the future.

Dream big and believe in yourself. We are always here to support you. Never forget how much we love you.

- Mom, Dad and Peyton

Luke Jines

Definitely so very proud of you, Luke. You have so many achievements already and we know you will do great things. Your entire family is amazed how mature you are and how quickly you have grown.

Your brother and sister really look up to you. Watching and sometimes coaching through Scouts, flag football, soccer, basketball, baseball and golf has made these past 18 years fly by! We love you, and remember, you can never play enough golf! Enjoy!

- Dad and Mom

Dylan Frank

David Williams Dylan, we are so proud of you! Can’t wait to see all of the amazing things your future holds!

Congratulations!!!!

- Mom, Paul, Gigi, Drew, Blake, Grey and Paul

Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. We are proud of how far you have come and wish you nothing but a bright and happy future! We will always be here to support you!

- Mom, Dad, Lacy, Grandma, Grandpa, Nana & Pop

Kendall Stowell

Alexander Pittman You did it! We are so proud of you and the man you have become! You’re starting another chapter of your life’s story and we can’t wait to see the wonderful adventures you’ll have. We love you!

We are so proud of you!!!

-Mom and Dad

- Mom, Dad & Austin

Madison Eddins

Madison, Congratulations! We are so proud of you and the young, amazing lady you have become. We are so excited to see where the next chapter in your life leads and all the things you do. We love you!

Natalya Knoke

- Mom, Dad and Taylor

Natalya, Life is never dull with you around.

You make us laugh with your corky personality and antics. Your energy and love for life is contagious. You love fiercely and give freely. You desire the best for others and try to help them achieve it. Continue to enjoy everyday to it’s fullest and love life. We can’t wait to see what God has planned for your future. We are so blessed to have you as a part of our lives. We love you so much!

- Mom, Dad, Nana Pam, Nana Cathey, Papa Dan, Papa Tim, Mimi, Papa Bill and Nana Linda

Ian Boyd

Ian, We are so proud of the person you have become and look forward to seeing what your future holds! You are kind, caring and witty and you will bring so much good to the world. Know that no matter where you go, we are proud of you and love you!

- Mom & Dad

taylor Anderson

Taylor, Congratulations on an amazing first chapter of your life! Every day has been full of love, fun, and laughter with you! We are so proud of the fabulous person that you are! Your hard work, dedication, leadership, positive outlook, and desire to make everything meaningful and fun are going to take you so far in life! And we will be cheering you on and supporting you every step of the way!! We know you will achieve any goals that you set for yourself in the future!

-We love you Tay! Love, Mom, Dad, & Jake

Halle Maksimik

Sometimes you don’t know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory, but, darling Halle, we knew. Watching you grow up has been a joyous, humbling, breathtaking journey. You have the happiest, sweetest nature, but the fiercest intellect. You’re unfailing kind and loyal, but possess an admirable dose of determination. You have your own unique, sassy style, yet the most wholesome values. You have a generous heart and quiet strength. You see the good in everyone and everything, and inspire us to be better and to try harder. I think you’ve taught us far more than we taught you, and we treasure the memory of every moment. We can’t wait to see what’s next!

Whatever you do, it will be amazing because YOU are amazing. Our only advice is to do what makes you happy. And come home often! We love you more than anything!

Kyler James Your achievements, drive, & motivation amaze us every day. We are so incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to see what your future holds!

- Mom & Matt

- Mom, Dad & Harrison

Abigail Nickell

Abby, We are so proud of your kind, gentle spirit! We love you so much and know you will do great things. Spread your wings beautiful girl and follow your dreams. Oh the places you will go!

Anne Brunk

- Mom, Dad, Carter, Colten & Belle

Jeffrey Laubscher

Jeffrey, From before you were born you were putting other people first in your life.

You are such a joy and are so very easy to be proud of. Your amazing sense of compassion, ability to see the good in others, empathy, and judgement will take you wherever you want to go in life.

We can’t wait to hear about how you bring your light into the lives of those you choose to have in your life both personally and professionally. We love you son, and are so very, very proud of the person you are.

- Dad, mom & sisters

Mya Young

Megan Nicole, We know this year has been difficult, but if you can graduate despite a pandemic, you can do anything! Know that we are so very proud of the beautiful young lady you have become and as you start your new journey, know that you are loved and we are always here for you, cheering you on!

- Love, Mom, Katelyn and Liam

Mya, We are so very proud of you!

You have accomplished so much throughout your 18 years and persevered not having a typical senior year. Congratulations on your high school graduation and we know you will do amazing things in the future. God Bless you!

-Love Mom, Bronson, Riley, Dad, Shauna, Kash, and Kane

- XXXOOO Mom and Dad

Megan Paterson

We are so proud of who you are.

Grades and accomplishments are important, however not as important as character and compassion. Your character, compassion for others and your dedication to God, family and friends also makes you very special. We thank God for you and are excited for the next chapter in your life. We love you and are always in your corner.

Olivia Petersen So fast, so hopeful, so amazed, so impressed, so excited, so nervous, so ready, so proud, so strong, so much, so grown, so graduate already! We love you SO much!

- The ones who ALWAYS got your back

Drew Cason

We are so proud of all you have accomplished and look forward to what your future brings. We are lucky that we were chosen to be your family and are excited to be a part of your journey. We KNOW you will accomplish whatever you set your mind to as you are a force to be reckoned with! Make smart choices and your life will be blessed. Psalms 20:4

Hayli Goff

We are so proud of you, Miss Hayli! You are an inspiration to everyone around you. You are full of personality, giggles, and love for your family and friends!

Congratulations! We love you!

-Mom, Dad, Kolby, Samantha, Spencer, Isabelle, and Aiden

- Your Parents & Siblings

William Reynolds

We are SO proud of you!

This next chapter is all yours.

We just know you are gonna do great things. Enjoy!

J’Nai Moultrie

From mom - I love you forever, I like you for always, as long as I’m living my baby you’ll be.

- Mom, Dad, Emily, & Madigan

Brody Frasdilla

We can’t believe this time has come. You have grown into such a compassionate, insightful, beautiful woman of faith. We are so proud of how you are finding your way & making your own path. Remember to love God, love yourself, and love others.

Embracing & living out love like that will bring you true joy, contentment, and happiness.

We love you!

- Mom & Dad

Blake Gott Brody, So proud of you and the wonderful adult you are becoming!

- Mom and Dad

Blake, We are so incredibly proud of you and your accomplishments. You are truly a young man of character and kindness. We look forward to seeing what God has planned for you. We love you and are so grateful to have you as a our son!

- Love, Mom & Dad

Congratulations GRADUATES

Regan Johnston signs e c a e p ly uses l a c i n o r i ow to h Un w o n sn’t k ! and doe SPELL l e p s spelle

The Bell’s Senior

B U R N

Rumor is... her hair is so big because it’s full of secrets.

Paige Hodges

Charlene Nguyen $$$ Will doub le-c you for m ross oney $$$

B O O K

bout a s k l a T ift too w S r o l Tay has d n a h muc sues s i R E ANG spaper. w e N from

Emma Stauffer

Ari Revella ere???

Does he even go h

Games

Senior Season Word Search

Celebrate Cap Gown 38

The Bell

May 2021

Games

Senior College Prom

Future Graduation Coronavirus

Games

Find the Diploma

Games

lhsnews.net

39

CongraTulations Class of 2021 $3.00 OFF LUNCH

With Purchase of 2 entrees & 2 Drinks NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS

$4.00 OFF DINNER

With Purchase of 2 Dinners & 2 Drinks NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS

290 S. 291 Hwy. Liberty MO 816-792-2737 CALL AHEAD FOR CARRY OUT