Scarlet Scroll Spring 2025

Teachers of the Year

Sam De Guzman Copy Chief

In 2022, the Diocese of Orange introduced the St. Elizabeth Seton Ann Seton Teacher of the Year Award in order to celebrate Catholic educators who have fostered the spiritual and academic growth of their students. Nominated by their colleagues, teachers at Mater Dei have been recognized for this honor each year. As they continue to cultivate the education and well-being of future generations, these educators have served significant roles in carrying out the Catholic faith within their contributions.

English Department Chair Eunice Kim was selected as a finalist for the Teacher of the Year Award in 2024. Now in her 15th year of teaching, Kim reflects on how she was initially inspired to pursue English by the encouragement of her high school teacher. Kim decided to further her education at New York University and acquired a New York State teaching credential. Growing in her knowledge over the years and being able to share her skills with others, Kim is deeply grateful for this recognition.

“It reminds me that I’m where I’m supposed to be, and I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing, so it’s humbling and it’s encouraging,” Kim said.

The opportunity to work with students has fueled Kim’s passion for teaching, in which she’s been able to engage with younger generations through meaningful conversations. In the hopes to connect with her students on a deeper level, Kim strives to create a safe and welcoming environment that nurtures student needs and allows them to reach their full potential.

“I keep my door open so that students know that they can come and approach me, whether it’s about my class, whether it’s about something that they need help with outside of my class, and just opening up those lines of communication and making sure that they know that those lines of communication are open,” Kim said.

Kim’s approach to each lesson plan is rooted in the love and care she has for the classes she teaches. Ensuring that the wellbeing of each student is at the center of her teaching values, Kim does not see her students as a number, but rather as individuals with unique experiences.

“I hope that even when I have to be more strict, that [students] can recognize the purpose behind it, because we’ve developed a relationship of trust, develop a relationship of understanding and respect–that [I] am teaching them because I do care and I want them to learn these things for x and y reasons,” Kim said.

Chosen as the 2023 finalist for the Teacher of the Year Award, World Languages Teacher Jennifer Battaglia has been an American Sign Language (ASL) educator at Mater Dei for 10 years now. Battaglia initially learned ASL at the age of six in elementary school and knew from an early age that she wanted to pursue a career involving the language. Seeking higher education, she attended Cal State Northridge for her bachelors degree in Deaf Studies and a single subject teaching credential, as well as Western Governors University for her masters degree in curriculum and instruction. Attaining these achievements has presented Battaglia the fortune to lay a foundation for understanding communication among hearing and non-hearing communities.

“I think it’s really important that we use our hearing privilege to speak up for the deaf community,” Battaglia said. “They have welcomed me and have had a huge impact on my life, and so this is my way of giving back to the deaf community, teaching hearing students ASL, to the best of my abilities and their abilities to hopefully bridge that gap between the deaf world and the hearing.”

As the only ASL teacher on campus, Battaglia has been able to form lesson plans and projects that require students to be involved and utilize their language skills in the world. Assignments like watching TV without captions, learning about deaf history, and wearing sound eliminating headphones for a day are integral to the ASL curriculum. She hopes to empower students to develop a broader understanding of the deaf community.

“I try to teach my students that deaf people are human,” Battaglia said. “We try to look at the person as a whole and not just focus on their deafness and that they can do anything a hearing person can, and I try to show them that, so that they’re not focusing on just the disability.”

Religious Studies Teacher Benjamin De Los Reyes was selected the very first winner of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Teacher of the Year Award in its inaugural year, 2022. After completing two years at Long Beach City College, De Los Reyes completed his undergraduate and masters at the University of San Diego. It is through teaching that De Los Reyes has found a bigger purpose in working toward God’s mission.

“ The nature of schools is optimism for the future,” De Los Reyes said. “Young people are preparing for their dreams for the

A Letter from the Editors

We are incredibly excited to present our news print of the 2024-2025 school year. As editors, our mission is to share the stories of both the Mater Dei community and the changing world we live in. In this issue, we have included 23 articles on a wide variety of topics from spotlighting Teachers of the Year awards to the impact of Catholic education.

As the year comes to a close, we reflect on our hard work in reporting on current events, duties that our staff works tirelessly to accomplish. We hope that you may find something that piques your interest.

Thank you for choosing to read our newspaper. We hope that you enjoy everything that we have to offer, and look forward to bringing you additional stories in the future.

Sincerely,

future, and as teachers, we are optimistic about who the students are becoming, and that our students are contributing to making the world a better place. What inspires me as a teacher is to be, in a small way, contributing to God’s project in the world, which is making the world a little more of a slice of heaven.”

In his classroom, De Los Reyes continues to follow a teaching model that aims to build authentic relationships and an environment where students feel valued. He creates assignments where students interact and learn about each other’s perspectives on world issues, promoting a sense of unity despite differing opinions.

“[What makes a good teacher is someone that] values the life experience and wisdom of their students, who want to not only hear about their students point of view, but also provide opportunities for students to learn from each other’s point of view,” De Los Reyes said.

As these teachers continue to pave a path for future classes to hone in their critical thinking skills, they prepare students to conquer real world challenges. One of De Los Reyes’s main goals for the future is to improve student engagement in classrooms.

“[I hope that students] become more curious, ask more questions, and have better class discussions,” De Los Reyes said. “[I want to] make the class more vibrant with interest and engagement, because I think one of the few of the problems that I’m seeing a lot of is burnout in students—students trying to get through the day rather than embracing the day.”

De Los Reyes’s emphasis on student engagement also goes hand-in-hand with Kim’s plan for the classroom. Kim aspires to enrich respectful conversation that gathers different perspectives and ideas, while also reinforcing personal beliefs. She hopes that by creating this space, students can find their personal voice.

“I hope that they also learn the importance of listening to others, to be respectful, to have an open mind, and to stand their ground for the things that they believe in,” Kim said.

SIGNING THE WAY English Teacher and Department Chair Eunice Kim interacts with students as they work on assignments. Kim was named a finalist for the Teacher of the Year Award in 2024. She aims to keep lessons applicable to any future field of study. “[The best part of my day is] that I get to work with students,” Kim said. “At the high school level, students are still eager to learn from their teachers, but at the same time, they’re mature enough to have genuine, deep conversations.” Photo courtesy of Mater Dei High School.

Voices in Sync: An Inside Look into Chambers

Sam De Guzman Copy Chief

The Chambers Choir at Mater Dei is not just a vocal group—it’s a competitive, selective ensemble where dedication and love for music drives students to push themselves to new levels of performance. Chambers devotes 5-10 hours a week to rehearsals both in and outside of the classroom helping young singers build strong connections and strive for excellence.

Director of Choral and Vocal Music Dr. Jodi Reed has been instructing the Chambers Choir for six years now. Reed holds an undergraduate degree in piano performance and pedagogy, a masters of music in choral conducting, as well as a doctorate in instrumental to choral conducting. Reed’s diverse and varied levels of expertise have shaped her approach to teaching and enhanced the overall quality of Chambers, as she fosters a deep sense of drive, passion, and unity within the group.

“[The kids] know that when they come to class, they’re part of something bigger than themselves,” Reed said. “I put a lot of emphasis on each student leading in every way that they can–whether it’s with their personality, hard work, or vocal talent.”

Reed dedicates a significant amount of time to selecting music for the Chambers Choir, a process known as programming. Carefully choosing collegiate-level pieces that challenge her students, Reed hopes to build resilience among the group to cultivate teamwork and develop their music capabilities.

“Not every student is going to love each piece, but they usually end up loving it because they put hard work into it,” Reed said. “By virtue of doing it, they rise and become ready for it. Through that process of having to put that hard work in, the growth is tremendous.”

C entral to her teaching philosophy is personal development, where each rehearsal is integral to improving and mastering different skill sets. Because of this, Reed holds deep gratitude and love for the rehearsals that lead to each performance, a process where true fulfillment lies.

“ There’s always room to grow,” Reed said. “There’s always room to improve vocally, [improve] musicianship skills, [and grow in terms of] unity. And, [I] always want next year’s group to be better than the last.”

This continuous improvement is a value that holds true to many of her students, including Student Director and senior Niko Manapat. Manapat was first introduced to choir his sophomore year. He auditioned for Chambers at the end of that same year and was accepted, further deepening his skills and involvement. Now in his final year, Manapat reflects on his personal growth throughout the years that have enabled him to find a sense of confidence.

“When I first joined choir, I was very intimidated because I felt like I was going to be judged for not knowing how to sing well,” Manapat said. “But, I have adapted by seizing more opportunities to put myself out

there such as solos and being a part of Chambers.”

As a member of the Choir Council, Manapat has played a pivotal role in organizing meetings with other members, leading rehearsals, and ensuring the ensemble’s productivity. This leadership provides a unique opportunity for him to lift up his contemporaries through words of encouragement, even during the most intense rehearsals.

“ Though it does sound small, people carry those compliments with them the entire day and the difference that it makes to one person is so huge,” Manapat said.

Manapat is grateful for the safe space Chambers has granted him, especially with the lifelong friendships he made along the way.

“I’ve been a part of choir for three years and over those years, I have made so many memories like the New York tour and the choir retreats at Big Bear,” Manapat said. “Most of my friends came from choir class, and now I can’t go a day without hanging out with them.”

Senior Micah Golden shares a similar sentiment about growth and personal fulfillment. Prior to his junior year, Golden took a major step in his vocal career by auditioning for Chambers in the hopes to leave a lasting impact and pave the way for younger choir students.

“What made me really want to audition for [Chambers] was that I wanted to set an example for people,” Golden said. “I wanted to be an example that people can look up to. It’s fun to continue evolving and learning more.”

For Golden, the dedication required to be involved in Chambers drives him to deeply engage with the music he learns, as well as challenges him to push boundaries in his vocal performances.

“Chambers has a deeper level of commitment and a sense of professionalism all around,” Golden said. “It demands a lot of focus and attention and dives deep into different elements, which is key to how I’ve adapted and grown over the years.”

Golden has a particular eye for detail, which has been essential to his experience in Chambers. He looks beyond simply learning the notes but discovering a deeper, resonating message within each song.

“Every piece has something unique and beautiful attributed to it,” Golden said. “I was really interested to see what kind of pieces we would be getting to perform and see if there was a theme to follow up with it overall.”

Sophomore Ava Farao has been part of choir since her freshman year. This is her first year on Chambers. Although new to the group, Farao was motivated to be involved in the school and meet people who share a similar passion in music. She has learned to navigate through the time commitment of Chambers by learning balance between extracurriculars and the importance of communication.

“[I’ve adapted to the workload]

by managing my time and scheduling ahead of time. I make sure to talk with everybody like Mrs. Reed and my coaches in order to make time for all my activities,” Farao said.

The focus of collaboration within this choir has helped Farao build character and learn valuable life lessons, as she works toward a collective goal with other members of the group.

“It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s worth it,” Farao said. “In choir, we have to be all as one so I’ve learned unity and how to be more selfless.”

As the members of Chambers continue to devote themselves to their craft, each person feels a sense of accomplishment and pride. Golden looks back to one of his very favorite performances, during a rare opportunity for Chambers to participate in the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) festival last year. He feels especially proud that all of their effort paid off in a powerful way and looks forward to what the group can bring in the upcoming year.

“All of the hard work, build up, and having that reaction come out of the audience felt very joyous,” Golden said. “I felt proud of not just myself but of everybody for the effort and time we all put in.”

The cultivation of respect and friendship has created a supportive community where each student feels empowered to share in the same passions. Reed is inspired by the positive spirit of her students and hopes to continue leading Chambers for many years.

“[What inspires me are] the kids,” Reed said. “They’re amazing. I work with the most amazing human beings that there are, and they inspire me every day, and they make me want to be better because of their humanity. They’re just good people.”

MEET THE STAFF

“This was my first year in Chambers, and I’m just proud that I get to do what I love with my best friends, especially because there’s so many hours that go into our rehearsals,”

Sofia Casarin Staff Reporter

SET TO PERFORM Juniors Thomas Mitchell, Diego Casarin, and senior Grace Henze pose in front of Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, ready to perform for the annual Fall Concert. From Oct. 20 to Oct. 21, Chambers singers took the stage to showcase their vocal talent and celebrate months of dedicated preparation.

Henze said. Photo courtesy of Grace Henze.

Charlotte de Leon Editor-in-Chief Ava Gomez Managing Editor Sam De Guzman Copy Chief

Boston Crenshaw Art & Design Editor Kenny Smith Staff Reporter Spencer Foster Staff Reporter

Kayla Hofman News Briefs Manager Grant Foster Staff Reporter Stella Pham Staff Reporter

Sheridan Hofer Staff Reporter Izzy Warmington Staff Reporter Khoa Dang Staff Reporter

Grace Trinh Staff Reporter Huy Nguyen Staff Reporter Suzanna Tran Staff Reporter

Victoria Cox Staff Reporter Milan Games Staff Reporter Xavier Luna Staff Reporter

Brandon Arteaga Staff Reporter

Darlyn Vargas Staff Reporter

Courtney Cao Staff Reporter Ava Blanco Staff Reporter Nicole Howard ‘85 Newspaper Adviser

The Weight Room and Athletes

Grant Foster Staff Reporter

The weight room can be considered as one of the most important parts of building athletic careers at any level. Lifting weights helps athletes build a strong physique while also improving their character. The Mater Dei Athletic Department recognizes this and has state-of-the-art equipment for its athletes. The program also offers trainers to help the athletes succeed. There are currently three trainers that work with the various teams. These trainers are dedicated to their role and only want the best out of the athletes.

The weight room at Mater Dei consists of 20 workout stations. Some of these include a squat and bench press bar, stationed Total Resistance Exercises (TRX) rows, as well as a pullup bar with a tricep and bicep grip. There are other workouts that can be done throughout the room such as deadlifts, box jumps, core machines, abb wheels, medicine balls, bands, and free weights such as dumbbells and kettlebells. Access to these facilities is available to all students enrolled in an athletic block.

Freshman Matthew Aubol had never been to a weight room prior to joining Mater Dei Athletics and appreciates how the school has given him the magnificent opportunity to be able to start his weight room journey.

“I have gotten a lot stronger, and I think it will be very beneficial during a game,” Aubol said.

Aubol has become more driven in his efforts to become a better player both physically and mentally. He thanks his coach for giving him that drive to push on further and keeping a strong mentality even when the training becomes too hard.

“I really like Coach Reagan and the drive that she gives us when working out,” Aubol said.

Aubol appreciates the cleanliness of the weight room and enjoys practicing there. He anticipates that when his soccer games come, that his training will help him on the field.

“Coach Reagan has us doing legs and goblet squats which has made us run faster and build more muscle, and bench

SPORTS FEATURE

press,” Aubol said. “It has been really beneficial to my strength and has made me healthier.”

Freshman Michael Ramos believes that the incorporation of weight training will enhance his performance. Influenced by Coach Reagan, he believes that the exercises that she has them doing are incredible, saying that these workouts will help him endure games better. Common exercises that occur in the weight room consist of the bench press, squats, lunges, other leg exercises, and shoulder exercises. Ramos believes this is one of the most fundamental parts for reducing fatigue and keeping peak stamina within games.

“[The weight room training is] helping us get more fit, so I will be able to stay in the game longer and not get tired,” Ramos said.

Reagan Appleby, a strength and conditioning coach at Mater Dei, chose this career path due to her passion for athletics and the desire to help athletes improve their performance. Appleby has a very full schedule coaching 8-10 teams that include both boys and girls soccer, lacrosse, water polo, track and field, softball, and baseball. Some exercises are specifically tailored to different sports, but the general approach that is taken for all sports is to find core exercises that will benefit your sport and the whole body.

“We’re always looking at what exercise is going to benefit your sport the best, but every athlete has a pretty similar program in terms of training,” Appleby said.

These exercises are crucial for the success of Mater Dei athletes, not only for their strength, but also to prevent injuries that occur in these many sports. At Mater Dei High School, the athletes and trainers work their hardest and make sure that they are in top condition for game day, by constantly training and staying sharp. You need more than just natural skill in a designated sport. You have to be strong, fast, and maintain endurance during competition.

What Inspires Mater Dei Athletes

Xavier Luna Staff Reporter

Mater Dei is known for their stellar athletic programs. From the national superpower Boys Football Team to the stellar Girls Tennis and Golf Teams, Mater Dei always brings on the intensity in championships.

While some student athletes are influenced by a famous athlete, others are inspired by their siblings or other loved ones. Junior Isaih Covarrubias explains who influenced him.

“My older sister inspired me to start playing soccer because I always grew up watching her play games on the weekends,” Covarrubias said. “Watching her put so much effort and dedication and dedication into something inspired me.”

Senior Jenna Paidosh started playing golf for a similar reason. Along with her parents encouraging her to play golf over the years, she continually works to stay motivated and keep pushing herself to be better.

”My parents encouraged me to play a sport that I could play for the rest of my life, which led me to golf,” Paidosh said. “Golf may not be as exciting as other sports, but as I have matured, I have found a great love for it. I am naturally a competitive person so I always push myself to be the best player that I can be.”

While starting a sport is one thing, being committed to it from start to finish is the most important factor of being an athlete. Paidosh believes that being able to manage your sport along with school and other extracurricular activities is not always easy.

“A major challenge in being a student athlete [is] balancing sport practices while keeping up with my schoolwork,” Paidosh said. “Golf has evolved into a major part of my identity, and I couldn’t imagine not playing it. It certainly helps that I produce much better scores compared to when I first started, but I love every part of golf, whether it be simple practice or school competition.”

During competitive events, it’s important to stay focused in the game both physically and mentally, which are key factors of playing well.

“ To stay mentally focused during game time, I keep my eye on the ball and keep track of the play that is going on,”

Covarrubias said. “When the ball goes out of play, I take that time to recover and think about what I need to do next to help my team.”

Some people may have unique ways of thinking before games that help them keep the right mindset. Sophomore Mia Games is a lacrosse player who prepares for games in her own way.

“I physically prepare by doing some juggling and more hand eye coordination drills,” Games said. “Mentally I imagine myself as the head chef protecting the goal which is the soup, so no enemy chefs throw in bad ingredients.”

Working together as a team is another important factor when it comes to sports at Mater Dei. Both determination and team inspiration can boost performance and morale in games. Knowing that you are an integral cog in the game and wanting to help your teammates at all costs can propel an athlete to always try harder.

“I think motivation plays a big role when it comes to sports but you also have to be driven and passionate to cross the finish line,” Games said. “I’m a goalie, so one thing that motivates me is that if the ball goes through, all the work my team did would be for nothing.”

No matter how many seasons these athletes have played, everyone will always face challenges throughout the season just as junior Shyler Satina experiences with the Boys Tennis Team.

“I want to be the best version of myself I can be and tennis is a really rewarding sport as you can really feel yourself improve as you play more,” Satina said. “The biggest challenge we faced as a team were the close losses where we all knew we could have done a bit better.”

While having someone to look up to and be inspired by is important, having a personal mantra that motivates you could be the difference between a good player and a great player.

“Someone told me once that every second you play will make you better and better,” Satina said. “So even if you only have 30 minutes to play, that 30 minutes might mean the difference in making or missing the game-winning shot.

BODYBUILDING Freshman Presley Patrick does a box jump in the weight room during his team’s designated weight time. This is one of the many exercises that are available in the weight room in order to build strength within athletes. “[The weight room] brings everyone together and the energy is massive,” Patrick said. Photo illustration by Grant Foster, Staff Reporter.

COMPLIMENTARY COMPANIONS Seniors Niko Manapat and Josh Sumbong sit together on the bench after working hard together and constantly lifting their boys volleyball teammates up. Sharing a nonstop train of compliments helps them to make sure they feel confident even during high pressure moments. “I keep myself and others motivated by keeping a positive mindset and focusing on the next play instead of focusing on past mistakes,” senior Niko Manapat said. Photo courtesy of Niko Manapat.

JRod Strong: Coach Johnny Rodriguez’s Purposeful Spirit

Stella Pham Staff Reporter

Athletic coaches serve as the head of a team, using their knowledge to guide and empower players by aiding them in developing skills and a positive mindset. For a decade, Coach Johnny Rodriguez has been the heart of the Mater Dei Boys Lacrosse program, dedicating his life to leading young men with discipline, resilience, and ambition. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a life-changing condition, that put his strength to a test.

Rodriguez’s journey with lacrosse began in high school in Baltimore, Maryland, in the early 2000s and continued through his college years at Salisbury University. After seven years as a professional player and winning various awards, Rodriguez transitioned into the position of Head Boys Lacrosse Coach at Mater Dei in 2015, where he found his true passion. Rodriguez has helped elevate the program to be named in the Top 25 National Rankings during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. In August of 2023, he chose to step down as head coach “to put a more holistic focus into the program’s future success” and now serves as part of the coaching staff.

For Rodriguez, coaching was never just about bringing the team to the championships, it was about teaching life lessons through the game.

“We don’t coach these kids for wins and losses,” Rodriguez said. “It’s to coach them in life, you’re making an impact on their life.”

On Oct. 20, 2023, Rodriguez’s own life was changed forever when he was diagnosed with ALS, a nervous system disease that

affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord and weakens muscles. Rodriguez first noticed the symptoms when he felt a pinched nerve in his right hand. Even after a year of MRIs, the discomfort remained, and Rodriguez decided to make an appointment with a neurologist.

“Johnny, you have ALS,” Rodriguez’s neurologist said.

The news hit hard. Although Rodriguez is known within the community as a testament to joy and encouragement, the reality of his diagnosis completely changed him for a period of time.

“I was so content with where I was in life at that very moment that it shook me [and] it shook me for months,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve not been a depressed guy [in life]. I have always been upbeat, positive, optimistic, [but] I was in a dark hole.”

Faith is one of the biggest factors that has guided Rodriguez through this challenge and helped him find peace in all aspects of life, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But that journey was not immediate. At first, he struggled to understand how the diagnosis would affect his future, but led him to realization and strength.

“ The biggest challenge in the journey was accepting the truth but not buying into what the internet says or the doctors say,” Rodriguez said. “I need to find trust in the Lord, and that gives me the strength, the grace, [and] the love to change every part of my life.”

Despite his diagnosis, Rodriguez continues to lead and inspire his team, which has always cheered him with support. His players have dedicated themselves to making every practice and every game count, reflecting the same discipline their coach has always fostered.

How the Sailing Team has Emerged and Grown

Brandon Arteaga Staff Reporter

Sailing is a smaller sports team at Mater Dei compared to some of the others. This co-ed club team began at Mater Dei in 1998. Since then, the sailing program has gone through many changes and has gone on to win a number of national titles.

Junior Nick Lech joined the team his freshman year and is a key member. He has many hopes for this upcoming season.

“My hopes are to win the national championship this year,” Lech said.

He hopes to achieve this even with all the changes the team has faced. Many of the key players graduated last year as seniors, so that left the responsibility to the juniors.

“We have lost many valuable people but we are gaining many people who are looking to be beneficial to the team,” Lech said.

Lech has stepped up this year as a mentor for the new members. He strives to motivate others to push their limits and to go beyond their comfort zones.

“I consider myself a leader because I help motivate the younger people on the team to perform at higher standards and learn [more],” Lech said.

B eing on the sailing team has helped people build a family. Senior Tate Christopher considers himself a key member of the team and helps build team character amongst others. He is a big role model for others and knows that he has to set an example.

“I am now a senior so I know that I have to be a big role model,” Christopher said. “I try to be the best version of myself while being a role model for others.”

Christopher would like to see the team grow in numbers and become more popular. New talent is always welcome.

“Hopefully we can get more people to join the team since we are smaller but ultimately I would like to see the team grow in size.”

Like Lech, Christopher hopes to win a championship this year. With the time and effort they’ve put in, he feels they have a good shot at the title. He knows that it is not a one man job and can’t be done without the help of his teammates.

“I see us performing quite well since we’ve all put in time and effort to get to where we are today,” Christopher said.

With help from other seniors such as William Sangmeister, the team is sure to perform well this year. Sangmeister has also been on the team for many years and is a big influence and mentor for others on the team.

“ The team has gained much more recognition for its achievements hence its popularity,” Sangmeister said. “Its team size has grown a lot to the point where we are matching other teams, such as CDM, in comparison to size.”

Sangmeister has made many friends while on the team and has built a bond with them. He loves being on the team though and finds it very rewarding to do something he loves with friends.

“Being out on the water with all my friends [is the best],” Sangmeister said. “As someone who doesn’t go to regattas usually, it’s fun to go out and practice with my friends and just have fun.”

He definitely tries to take advantage of the many

“I would describe Coach Rodriguez as a leader and a mentor, and he means so much to me,” junior Harper O’Hara said. “He’s always leading, even though every day might not be his best day, he always tends to have the best attitude and [is] super positive which is super infectious towards everybody around them.”

Senior Preston Jensen reflects on Rodriguez’s ability to remain optimistic despite the obstacles and has taught the team invaluable lessons about resilience.

“Coach Johnny is a huge inspiration for the whole lacrosse team,” Jensen said. “Him working and still pushing through all the hardships that he goes through makes him a real role model for the whole team. I look up to him, and I am praying for him.”

Senior Oliver Yang also shared a similar perspective, emphasizing how Rodriguez has influenced the team in keeping up despite hardships. Since their coach’s diagnosis, the team now cherishes every moment together.

“We tackled every practice like it’s our last,” Yang said. “We appreciate everything we have.”

With the help and support from people around him, Rodriguez’s experience has transformed his perspective on life. In addition to that, he remains committed to his three personal goals: maintaining his physical health, embracing love and emotional strength, and strengthening his spiritual relationship with God.

“I’m working on keeping my body physically as healthy as possible, allowing myself to heal emotionally, continuing to learn to love more, and to grow my relationship with God,” Rodriguez said. “I’m reading the Bible from front to back this year, so [I] understand His words better.”

B eyond the lacrosse field, Rodriguez also inspires the greater Mater Dei community. Deeply honored to speak at the Respect All Life Mass in October 2024, exactly one year since his diagnosis, Rodriguez understood the beauty and power of Masses to deliver his message.

“If I can share [my] message with others [and] give them a glimpse of what life is like when you really focus on what’s important, then I’m happy to share that message,” Rodriguez said. “It took a terminal diagnosis for me to realize what I was missing in life, but I hope others don’t have to go through the same to understand what truly matters.”

More than a year since the diagnosis, Rodriguez refuses to let the disease define him. Fortunately, his ALS has not progressed as rapidly as predicted, combating the odds and giving him hope for the future.

“My life has been so much more beautiful, so much more colorful since I have been diagnosed,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve been very lucky to not have been progressing as fast as so many other patients have. I’ve actually gotten better, doing better now than it was last year, which is unheard of in ALS.”

Through it all, one thing that remains certain is Rodriguez’s impact. To his players, Rodriguez is more than just a coach, he is a role model and an inspiration. And if they could leave a message, the message would be:

“I love you, Coach,” both Yang and O’Hara said.

opportunities he has while being on the team.

“My favorite thing is being able to go out with my friends and go sailing on a weekday,” Sangmeister said. “My least favorite thing is the boats because the boats are a bit small for our size.” Sangmeister encourages others to join as they can also build life lasting friendships and bonds.

FIGHTING THROUGH STORMS Coach Johnny Rodriguez cheers on his players as they ace their attacking skills during an after-school practice. Despite the cold rain, Rodriguez remains on the field as his players’ biggest supporter and source of positivity, leaving a lasting impact on them. “Coach Rodriguez has changed my perspective in life, [making it] more positive,” O’Hara said. “[He reminds me that] there’s always something good to do, and I want to put that to my lifestyle.” Photo courtesy of Mater Dei High School.

ON THE WATER: Senior William Sangmeister sails in Newport Harbor, practicing for upcoming regattas. After school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the sailing team practices for upcoming competitions. “I’m excited for the season as we have a lot of talent this year,” Sangmeister said. Photo courtesy of William Sangmeister.

How to Get Scholarships

Charlotte de Leon Editor-in-Chief

A LEGACY LIVES ON Freshman Liam Estrada and junior Alice Eskander pose with the Barajas family after being awarded the Anthony Barajas Scholarship on Nov. 1, 2024. Commemorated to honor the life of Anthony Barajas ‘19, this scholarship is open to students involved in both athletics and performing arts who use their God-given gifts for kindness.“I felt truly honored when I found out I was awarded with the Anthony Barajas Scholarship,” Eskander said. “Receiving this award encouraged me to remember Anthony in my everyday life and increase my efforts towards making sure that everyone feels loved and included in my everyday life just as he did.” Photo courtesy of Alice Eskander.

As students prepare to continue their education in college, one important factor to keep in mind is the financial demand. From tuition and housing to extra amenities in order to enhance the college experience, the cost of attending university quickly adds up. However, this can be alleviated by the pursuit of scholarships that provide money in support of a college education.

Students can be eligible for a plethora of scholarships, as foundations seek out students with a wide variety of abilities and skill sets. While athletic scholarships are most commonly known among students, merit scholarships are another attainable way to help fund a student’s college tuition. Some scholarships are automatically awarded to students based on their GPA and grades once they are accepted into a college. Mater Dei Counselor Marybeth Nguyen ‘12 explains how merit scholarships can dramatically reduce a student’s college tuition.

“I’ve seen people get amazing scholarships for athletics, but I’ve also seen people get big discounts from other universities just based on merit,” Marybeth Nguyen said. “Every school has a breakdown of merit scholarships that automatically apply to your applications. When you’re applying to the school, it will automatically give you a scholarship amount if you meet their criteria for that specific school as part of your acceptance letter. If you can get your merit scholarships based on your GPA and grades, it makes all the colleges end up being around the same cost.”

Senior Izzy Nguyen is one Monarch who has received merit scholarships from the universities she has been accepted to thus far based on her academic achievements. With straight As and a 4.4 weighted GPA, she was offered merit scholarships from Baylor University in Texas, Drexel University in Pennsylvania, and also University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

FEATURE

“For my college applications, what stands out the most is the academic part,” Izzy Nguyen said. “It was a great way to get money from that too, and it’s really rewarding.”

As an international student, merit scholarships truly relieve Izzy Nguyen of financial burdens, especially when it comes to balancing the cost between her and her siblings.

“I’m an international student, so I’ve studied abroad since high school, and that’s going to be a lot of money for my parents,” Izzy Nguyen said. “But also because my parents are also funding for my brothers, who are also studying abroad in the U.S.”

Third party scholarship websites are another resource in gaining financial assistance. However, one must be careful in determining which websites are actually credible as well as feasible.

You shouldn’t have to pay for a [scholarship] website, or [any] scholarship access ever, and there’s a couple caveats to that,” Marybeth Nguyen said. “[Also], for some of the third party scholarships, you’re competing with 10s of 1000s of other high school seniors in the U.S. The bigger the website, and the more popular it is, the less of a chance that you’re going to have to actually get it, because it has more competition and more eyes on it.”

Marybeth Nguyen highlights several popular scholarship websites and encourages students to narrow their scholarship search by looking for specific categories that appeal to them as well as scholarships in specialized communities.

“A big, famous website is called fast web, [which is] a big network of lists of scholarships lined up,” Marybeth Nguyen said. ”Another one is called goingmerry.com. That’s where you find a couple current ones. And then that way it’s like shopping when you have eliminated certain categories. Other ones include scholarships.com but you just have to be more careful about what your categories are. There’s

Update on Senior Acceptances

Grace Trinh Staff Reporter

As the college decision season unfolds, seniors navigate the excitement and uncertainty of receiving acceptance letters and awaiting decisions from their chosen schools. Seniors Ivan Larios, Quinn Conklin, and Derek Virgen are some of the many students who have heard back from various colleges. They share their insight on navigating the application process.

Senior Ivan Larios has already received acceptance letters from both Grand Canyon University (GCU) and Orange Coast College (OCC). Although OCC was not unexpected because it is a community college, Larios was surprised by his acceptance to GCU, a university he hadn’t anticipated.

“I wasn’t too surprised to get accepted to OCC because it is generally an easy college to get into. I had a bit more of a reaction for GCU because it is an actual university, and I was surprised to be accepted,” Larios said.

As Larios waits to hear back from other schools, he reflects on the process and shares a piece of advice.

“Definitely do the early application because colleges look at applications more in depth and you have a higher chance of getting accepted,” Larios said.

While dealing with the stress of waiting for decisions, Larios finds comfort in trusting that everything will work out.

“One of my friends has a saying, ‘If you can’t do anything about it, don’t worry about it.’ I managed my stress well and trusted God,” Larios said.

Senior Quinn Conklin was recently accepted to the University

of Alabama. Although it’s his safety school, receiving the letter was still a positive step in his college journey.

“It was pretty cool,” Conklin said. “It is my safety school, but it is still nice to know I got in somewhere.”

C onklin recognizes that the waiting game can be stressful, but he emphasizes the importance of keeping a calm mindset during the process.

“I’ve been doing fine waiting,: Conklin said. “It’s best to not think about it and when you get to the date, whatever happens, happens.”

Looking forward to college, Conklin is particularly excited about the opportunity to live independently.

“I want to get out of my house and live some good college life on my own,” Conklin said.

Senior Derek Virgen has received acceptances from both the University of Portland and Seattle Pacific University, along with scholarships for both. While he continues to await responses from Chapman University and the University of Oregon, Virgen weighs the attributes that influence his final decision.

“Some factors include the area the school is in, if I can actually get into the school, and if I actually like the school,” Virgen said.

Virgen offers advice to future applicants, emphasizing the importance of starting early in the application process in order to balance academics and college apps.

“Start early creating your applications as they take longer than expected,” Virgen said. “Take a tour or look at a virtual tour of

also Orange County scholarships in general, so that one Orange County Foundation has different ones that keep it more local, which is helpful. And also within your church, you can see if they have any type of scholarships available to your high school. Mater Dei has certain [scholarship opportunities]. And sometimes your parents’ jobs have different scholarship things they do.”

Marybeth Nguyen also recommends searching for scholarships offered at the specific college the student has been accepted to. With application essays that relate directly to certain majors or demographics, the application pool narrows significantly, giving students a greater chance of earning the scholarship.

“A lot of the best scholarships come from the actual university that you end up attending,” Marybeth Nguyen said. “If you know what your major will be, there could be scholarships within that specific area.”

Mater Dei offers various scholarship opportunities for students as well. Senior Awards Night celebrates certain students for their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements with grants to whatever college a given student plans on attending in the fall.

“Senior awards is something that does get kind of overlooked sometimes, and [there are] just a couple online applications,” Marybeth Nguyen said. “There’s a wrestling specific scholarship, a performing arts specific scholarship, and a second performing arts one. [These are] the best ones that I like to advertise.”

It is never too early to apply for scholarships even to help fun high school. Freshman Liam Estrada earned the Anthony Barajas Scholarship for Acts of Kindness after hearing about it through Mater Dei’s email announcements. As a member of Mater Dei’s soccer team and guitar program, Estrada fulfilled the requirements of being involved in both sports and performing arts for the scholarship, similar to Anthony Barajas. He is grateful that the financial stress of his high school tuition will be lifted from his family’s shoulders.

“Honestly, my parents motivated me to sign up for it [for] the extra [financial] assistance,” Estrada said. “School is really expensive.”

The scholarship required an essay on how the student uses their gifts and talents to help others, Estrada believes the impact of Anthony Barajas’ life as a caring individual propels him forward, reflecting his future goals in life.

”It aligns with just trying to do the right thing,” Estrada said. “Even if you don’t want to, do your best to be an example that people can follow.”

Whether it’s through scholarships granted by colleges or seeking out additional support through other organizations, students should not give up on their scholarship search. Izzy Nguyen encourages students to keep pursuing scholarships, advising them to express their passions and connect it to future contributions and goals.

“Just try your best,” Izzy Nguyen said. “Put in what you’re passionate about, and what you want the college to see in your application profile, to prove that you are worth it for the scholarship [and] that you are suitable for the college to accept you. Then [they’ll] see your passion, and how you can contribute to college.”

where you’ll stay for the next four years of your life.”

Looking ahead, Virgen is excited about the opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.

“I’m excited to get away from a place I’ve lived in for almost all my life, getting to meet new people and getting to see new places,” Virgen said.

As these seniors prepare to take the next step in their academic journeys, their unique perspectives reflect the excitement and challenges that come with the college application process.

DREAM FUTURE GOALS Seniors Quinn Conklin, Ivan Larios, and Derek Virgen proudly display the logos of their dream schools. As they prepare to apply for these institutions, each one looks forward to the next step in their educational journey with excitement and determination. Photo by Grace Trinh, Staff Reporter.

Use of AI Writing

Boston Crenshaw Art and Design Editor

of sentiment towards daily

its inability to communicate in the same capacity as humans. This is one of the main reasons why Sisifa disagrees with the use of AI. “I don’t like AI because I think that it takes away people’s creativity and imagination,” Sisifa said. Illustration by Victoria Cox.

As humans continue toward the ‘future,’ more and more advanced technology is being used as everyday tools. One of these technologies is artificial intelligence (AI). When it comes to school and students, AI is a controversial advancement and sparks a discussion about whether or not its use is overall more beneficial or harmful. For some, its over reliance and potential use for plagiarism emerges as a major issue. On the other hand, many believe that AI is beneficial to modern innovation and is a helpful resource for students.

For English Teacher Denise Johnson, artificial intelligence can reap several benefits if used in a responsible way.

“I think if you’re supplementing things, you’re trying to get information from AI, or if you need a way to structure something; I think [AI is] a good thing,” Johnson said. “But typically, depending upon who’s using it, as a teacher I can tell if a student is trying to pawn off AI writing as their own in the high school level.”

OPINION

The Rise of Mobile Games

Kenny Smith Staff Reporter

The evolution of technology has brought society many new innovations, including the internet, social media, and mobile games. The increase of mobile games such as Brawl Stars, Clash Royale, and others is aided by increased demand for new games, social media influence and peers. Mobile games provide a space to relax alone, enjoy time with friends, and also create an escape from stressful situations.

As society shifts to an ever increasing digital world, it is no surprise that students turn to mobile games in their free time with friends or by themselves. The ease of access from mobile phones carried at all times makes them that much more accessible. Students often find out about games through other students both on campus and outside the school.

One of the most popular games at school right now is Block Blast, a problem-solving puzzle game that is similar to Tetris. Junior Sofia Corzine enjoys playing this game to settle down after a hard day at school.

“[Block Blast] is very relaxing and you don’t really have to think about work from school,” Corzine said.

After a long day focusing on school, sophomore Trenton Reimer believes mobile games provide a getaway from stress and responsibilities. Smartphone apps grant him and other students quick access to entertainment.

“For me, mobile games are a way to just take a break from school work and kind of just relax,” Reimer said. “So that way, whenever I’m working, I have more motivation to work because I had that break beforehand.”

When considering the benefits of mobile games, several come to mind. There are thousands of games to suit every personality, including multiplayer and single-player games. Freshman David Rodriguez finds that one key advantage of mobile games is that they are easily accessible and can be enjoyed on a personal portable device.

“[I play mobile games] because it’s a lot of fun, and [unlike a cellphone] I can’t take a computer with me [to play games],” Rodriguez said.

The rising influence of mobile games is in part due to the aspect of socializing and connectivity. Many students at Mater Dei like to play other popular mobile games, like Brawl Stars,

When it comes to writing, AI can be a very fast and efficient way to get an essay, story, or article done. After being given two different stories to read, the first written by AI and the second written by a student, Mater Dei Counselor Marybeth Nguyen ‘12 gives her feedback on the two.

“ The first one felt more edited, but it was a shorter quote from the speaker,” Nguyen said. “The second paragraph had a couple grammar mistakes or editing mistakes [and] I think the first one got to the point a bit more concisely.”

Even though AI is fast and succinct, the directness of its writing can be a problem. Given the same writings as Nguyen, junior Ou Sisifa finds that the AI writing is obvious because of its straightforward pace.

“I think the second one is more informative, but the first one, it’s just direct,” Sisifa said. “It sounds like a robot wrote this.”

B eing direct also affects the emotion that comes with writing. AI being a computer, its writing lacks the emotion that comes with passionate writing. Johnson feels the absence of emotion can make the writing insufficient.

“[The] problem with AI is that it can’t get the personal feeling because it’s a computer, so it doesn’t have that emotional quality,” Johnson said.

Along with artificial intelligence being frank, it can also have a hard time understanding how certain writings need to be formatted and written. After being told which story was AI, Nguyen brings up how AI changed the speaker’s quote.

“I think the fact that it paraphrases quotes is a big no no,” Nguyen said. “Even though it was more concise and simple to read, it could be risky if it’s going to misquote a human.”

AI continues to be a controversial topic, with mixed opinions from all sides. As its use becomes more popular, it will learn and develop higher levels of understanding and writing. As for now however, it still has a ways to go.

“I think that personality is completely devoid in AI,” Nguyen said. “It takes away the personality of what you’re trying to convey, the tone and the emotion that comes with [writing].”

LIFESTYLE

What is in Your Backpack?

Izzy Warmington Staff Reporter

Teens at Mater Dei carry more in their backpacks than pencils and paper. There are many different necessities a student needs to help them through the day. These could be something for their extracurricular activities. Some of the small things students bring to school can truly make the difference between a good or bad day. So what are those small necessities in a Monarch’s backpack?

Since MD is such an athletic driven school, many students have to bring an extra backpack with them, or extra items in their primary bag. Sophomore Olivia Sullivan, who participates in indoor, beach, and club volleyball, shares what she brings for the day.

“For beach volleyball, depending on the weather, I either bring leggings or shorts and a t-shirt,” Sullivan said. “I also usually bring a snack so I’m not hungry, a hairbrush, a hair tie, and something to help my hair stay back. I also try to bring water, a few snacks, and lunch.”

One of the most crucial items needed is the student iPad. As an Apple distinguished school, students are required to bring a charged iPad everyday because a majority of the learning is operated online. Sophomore Sofia Gruianu makes sure to pack her iPad every morning, along with other necessities for each class.

“My iPad is necessary for everything I do at school,” Gruianu said. “I also like to keep three to four pencils in my bag because I always tend to lose them. In my backpack, I also carry six folders for my six classes in case we have any paper assignments. I also always carry a hairbrush, lip gloss, and perfume.”

It is not uncommon that students forget to charge their iPads when they are up late studying or doing other activities. While most classrooms are equipped with chargers, it is not guaranteed that each student will have access.

“I always bring a charger for my iPad in case I forget to charge it the night before,” Sullivan said. “Although most teachers have chargers in the classroom, it is always a good idea to bring your own.”

With most students juggling such busy schedules, many students like to use or bring a to-do list or planner. Sophomore Kylie Horwich uses a planner in order to help maintain an organized schedule and track her assignments.

with their friends. Brawl Stars is a multiplayer game where players battle against each other and complete quests with teammates. Games like this are popular because students can play with friends and socialize.

“I think lots of other people enjoy playing [Brawl Stars] because it’s a really popular game,” Rodriguez said.

The spread of mobile games stems from highly advertised media, which students consume everyday. The advertisements catch the attention of viewers, which leads to the growth and popularity of these games. Although game selection has a lot of variety to suit the desires of users, a number of students at Mater Dei commonly play only a handful of games per person as a way to have an easy gaming experience and bond with friends.

“Specifically around our campus, games are pretty diverse, but I would say that Brawl Stars would probably be the most popular game here,” Reimer said. “I know a lot of my friends play [it] at lunch and they play outside of school.”

The popularity in mobile games among high school students, teens, and other users continues to consistently rise because of how accessible the games are, and how easy it is to play with a either a companion, or alone if desired. Brawl Stars, Block Blast, and other games are good examples of what people enjoy playing for personal or friendly enjoyment. Students at Mater Dei enjoy playing these games to connect and unwind after a long school day. The sociality of mobile games enhances the connection between Monarchs and overall benefits students with a happy outlook.

GAME TIME Students enjoy the action packed gameplay that mobile games provide for them as they play Brawl Stars. Games allow students to collaborate and create stronger bonds in the Monarch community.

“A lot of times after school I have a few activities so having a calendar in my backpack makes it helpful to organize my schoolwork with that schedule,” Horwich said.

The diversity of students and their interests and activities at Mater Dei is reflected in the variety of items one may find in a given person’s backpack. Whether that is lip gloss, snacks, or your study guide for a big test, each object has a certain importance. These certain things help students navigate through a day in high school. So what’s in your backpack?

GRAB AND GO

and

hold up their backpacks, full of things they need

take

day. All of the items packed in each student’s bag is key to helping Monarchs get through school each day. “I don’t know what I would do without a lot of things in my backpack,” Horwich said.

Sophomores Kylie Horwich

Sofia Gruianu

to

on the

Photo illustration by Izzy Warmington, Staff Reporter.

DEPLETING CREATIVITY The lack

situations is a big problem for many when it comes to AI due to

Photo by Kenny Smith, Staff Reporter.

SPORT FEATURE

Boys Soccer Teams and Different Student Experiences

Grant Foster Staff Reporter and Tom Nguyen Staff Reporter

Recently named the 2024 CIF title winner, the Varsity Boys Soccer Team at Mater Dei has proven to be a strong team that possesses immense talent. During their 2025 season, the Monarchs were second in the nation and second in California, overcoming tremendous obstacles and other talented teams.

The strong team owes much of their success to the coaching staff who has helped lead them to victory many times. Varsity Coach Sean Ganey has been coaching the Mater Dei team for many years, and is very grateful for the time he has been able to contribute.

“I’m incredibly proud of this team and everything they’ve

SPORT FEATURE

accomplished,” Ganey said. “Winning the CIF title was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and teamwork. I’m grateful to be part of this program and to coach such an exceptional group of young men. We’re excited to compete in the Trinity League and continue striving for excellence.”

O ver the course of the season, the Mater Dei program had over ninety players across all teams, consisting of freshman, sophomore, JV, and varsity teams. The program starts with a camp for tryouts at the end of summer, allowing them to keep their skills up. Freshman Raphy Mekhail, feels that he has gained a newfound sense of confidence through his training and is excited for future game days with his team.

“During training, we do a variety of things such as conditioning, ball control, and improving together,” Mekhail said. “This all helps us to win as a team.”

B eing involved in soccer has also granted Mekhail the opportunity to form deeper friendships not just on the field, but beyond. In order to further connect with his team, Mekhail makes an active effort to stay in touch even in the off season. This is important for the team’s success and chemistry on the field.

“We try to keep contact, have a group chat, and communicate as much as possible,” Mekhail said.

Freshman Zaylen Tran, JV team member, knows that soccer at Mater Dei is not just about the training, but also about their brotherhood. Tran holds gratitude for the deep sense of community and has formed friendships in the program.

“My teammates are some of my closest friends at Mater Dei,” Tran said.

Tran has also learned a lot from Coach Carlos Godinez.

Treading On and Off the Deck: Girls Water Polo

The Mater Dei Girls Water Polo Team has been widely regarded as an excellent program for up-and-coming athletes who wish to pursue water polo in the future. The team has had countless achievements in the last 20 years. They have won eight Trinity League Championships and were finalists in the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Championship. After winning three Southern California water polo tournaments in the last few months for the first time, the players are anticipating success in the remainder of the season.

With the help of former Olympian, Coach Chris Segesman and other coaching staff, the girls have worked diligently inside and outside of the pool. The players consistently practice in the pool almost daily and lift weights one to three times a week during the season. Mia Sullivan, a senior on the varsity team and University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) commit, gives her insight on the demanding schedule.

“On a regular school day, we usually have an hour of weights, 45 minutes to an hour of film, and then two hours in the water,” Sullivan said. “It’s a lot [sometimes].”

Not only do they practice regularly each school day, but they also have a practice schedule for each season of the year, excluding major holidays and Sundays. Although their agenda can be busy, the girls enjoy practicing with their team and hope to win CIF for the first time.

“We definitely want to go for a CIF championship this year, so it takes a lot of hard work [and] skill,” Sullivan said. “During breaks, when we don’t have school, we have two practices a day, [a] two hour [practice], and a three hour [which includes] weights and film.”

The tryouts for new and former athletes occurs during the summer camp. Each year, the team hosts a program over the summer for incoming and returning water polo players. The girls practice in the pool and utilize the weight room almost every day during these summer months. Freshman JV player Audraina Mars, speaks of her experience at the camp and the selection process for the no-cut sport.

“[We didn’t] really [have a tryout] over the summer,” Mars said. “Our coach just looked at how hard we worked and [how] we played. [He] chose our team based on [his evaluations over the summer].”

Just like during the school year, the players have a busy schedule over the summer. These practices are very similar in duration and quantity to those during the actual season. The

camp is a great way for new players to get into the rhythm of the practice schedule, meet their teammates, and gain valuable experience.

“We had practice almost every day [but] never on Sundays,” Mars said. “[We] practiced five [to] six days a week. I liked the family and the connections [I] got to make.”

During a water polo game, there are seven players from each team in the water. Six players defend the goal and also play offensively, while the goalie protects the home goal to ensure that no point is scored. Most experienced players specialize in a certain position that they continue to compete in throughout their high school career. A water polo attacker’s responsibility is to gain possession of the ball and attempt to score in the opposing team’s goal. Mars is a Mater Dei attacker and has expertise in her position.

“I’ve played since I was seven [years old],” Mars said. “[My position is] an attacker.”

Although most players have competed in the sport for years, Mater Dei’s team is a no-cut sport, allowing for new players to pursue a passion in this activity. The staff and other players are very supportive, encouraging the girls to play their best.

“Water Polo is a no-cut sport, so anyone can join, and I think our JV team is super-duper welcoming,” Sullivan said. “If you’re new to our pool, you’re automatically placed on JV, and I think that they have great coaches.”

Although their schedule is busy, the program still allows the players to have valuable time to finish homework and participate in other activities. Players have the opportunity to utilize their time before and after practice to complete their school work. The coaches understand the importance of academics and what it means to be a student athlete.

“I like having time between school and practice to [finish] all my homework,” Mars said. “And then after practice, you can get your homework done [too]. There’s a lot of time commitment [but] it’s worth it.”

Many players are also involved in a lot of extracurriculars. Although being a water polo player is a large time commitment, they still have the opportunity to participate in other activities. The girls are well-versed in a variety of subjects and activities including honors classes, ASB, and more.

“I play for a [water polo] club team called Set [outside of school where] we won a national championship last year,”

He enjoys how his coach has taught him to be more aggressive, and to be more energized on the field.

“ The coaching has improved my play, because I have gotten more aggressive,” Tran said.

The varsity team is the highest level of soccer at Mater Dei. Senior Mike Pham made the varsity team as a senior with a strong work ethic. Pham has built a good relationship with his teammates over the years and has found that tending to these friendships has made his experience more positive.

“Find a way to strengthen the relationship with your teammates [is key],” Pham said. “Therefore, when it comes onto the field, you guys can have great team chemistry and understanding of one another.”

In addition to team bonding, Pham emphasizes the importance of discipline and preparation. He credits his success to consistent training and the guidance of his coaches, who have instilled in him the values of perseverance and commitment.

“Hard work and discipline are the foundation of any great athlete,” Pham said. “Without them, it’s impossible to reach your full potential on the field.”

Varsity competition pushes players to their limits, but it also provides them with opportunities to develop resilience and leadership. Senior players like Pham take on mentorship roles for underclassmen, ensuring that the program remains strong for future seasons.

“We have a responsibility to set an example for younger players,” Pham said. “Varsity is not just about winning games, but about building a legacy that younger teammates can carry forward.”

Sullivan said. “I do swimming as well as water polo, and I’m [a member] of the Rising Above Disabilities (RAD) club.”

Most players can agree that their favorite part of the program is the other teammates. The girls are kind, supportive, and push their teammates to play at their best. Through both wins and losses, the girls share an unbreakable bond which allows the players to be a part of a unique community that is understanding and positive.

“I like the family and the connections you get to make,” Mars said. “You always have people supporting you. If you win, you win together. [I love] the [positive] energy too.”

Players recommend the program to everyone, regardless of skill set. Whether the student is an incoming Monarch or current student, the team agrees that students should try water polo. Freshman JV player, Mae Price, agrees that the community is her favorite aspect of the team.

“[I love] being part of a family and a good community,” Price said. “[I recommend the program because] it’s super fun all the girls are [really] nice.”

Ultimately, the program has allowed the girls to improve as individual players, pursue their passion, and be a part of a supportive community. The team teaches them important life skills and grit.

“I would say it’s teaching me perseverance, resilience, and to trust my teammates and my coaches,” Sullivan said. “[It has taught] me a lot of discipline.”

Kayla Hoffman Staff Reporter

MAKING WAVES Junior and driver Ayla Ackerman shoots the ball while an opposing player attempts to guard her. The varsity team faced off against the Laguna Beach Breakers on Dec. 13 in a legendary match. The Monarchs won the game with a final score of 12-6. Not only did these girls demonstrate their shooting accuracy, swimming speed, and excellent teamwork, they displayed their passion and dedication for the sport. Photo by Paige Deiparine.

GOAL GLORY The Varsity Boys Soccer Team gathers on the field celebrating a wonderful match. With determination and teamwork, the athletes showed Servite the spirit of competition and school pride. “It was a tough game for us,” Pham said. “Coach Ganey and the team prepared for this game carefully, so that is the main reason we had a wonderful victory.”

Why You Should Become a Journalist

Ava Gomez Managing Editor

Journalism is the research, writing, and distribution of news related items through both print and electronic forms of media and communication. For decades, it has been the backbone of society as it informs the public on all aspects of life. From top news stories covering world-altering events to lifestyle articles recommending the newest trends, journalists reach millions of people worldwide.

Unfortunately, today’s society sometimes views journalistic careers in a negative light, citing the low wages and competitive atmosphere as some of the reasons for it becoming a “dying field.” Gretel Khan, a Panamanian journalist who worked for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, shared her own experiences in covering daily news to the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism through the University of Oxford.

“Every year seems to be the worst year for journalism lately,” Khan said. “Layoffs reached a new record, artificial intelligence may have begun to displace journalists, and the war in Gaza claimed the lives of a record number of reporters. All this was compounded by long hours, chronic underpayment and a declining number of journalism jobs.”

While a low salary is a major contributor to the decline in journalism’s popularity as a profession, there are also other factors such as the lack of trust from the public due to false news outlets creating a harmful reputation for the entire field. The Scarlet Scroll’s Editor-in-Chief Charlotte de Leon hopes to pursue journalism herself as she moves onto college, but is not blind to these obvious issues and road blocks.

“I just don’t know if I will be able to financially support myself, which I also think [is] part of the whole reason why people say not to become a journalist,” de Leon said. “Because no one really trusts journalists anymore. At least for me personally, every time I read or watch [the] news, I’m always thinking, oh, there’s a certain agenda behind it. They have a motive. It’s not completely unbiased and factual.”

These factors pose the question in many young minds today: Why should I become a journalist? Despite taking into consideration the adversities that journalists might face in their professional lives, this role is still so important in society. Its existence is necessary as it informs the public on current day events and shares stories that can change lives. This is why many aspiring student journalists still push the boundaries by challenging themselves to work towards the future of journalism.

“I want to share [the] truth with others and promote unbiased information that’s easily accessible for everyone in a world that’s very divisive and biased, because everyone deserves to know the truth,” de Leon said.

Students with similar passions and hopes can help to fuel the resurgence of journalism, creating an even better future for the field. They encourage fellow students with a passion for

Teenagers

For many young teenagers, learning how to drive marks the beginning of a long awaited life goal. This newfound sense of freedom grants new drivers the opportunity for independence, without the constant reliance on parents. Before reaching this milestone, however, comes a few challenges—the permit and behind-the-wheel driving test. The process students take to acquire their license leads them to feelings of both excitement and nervousness.

The main danger for new and young drivers is the lack of experience. Teenagers have a higher chance of being involved

STUDENTS IN JOURNALISM Senior Ava Gomez and junior Leo Tordera read over the Mater Dei student-led publications: The CROWN Yearbook and The Scarlet Scroll Newspaper. Reviewing previous publications allows students to get a head start, learning journalistic skills, such as writing and conducting interviews, that can carry them through their professional careers. “Telling stories is important,” senior Sam De Guzman said. “The Scarlet Scroll has opened the world of journalism up to me.”

writing, photography, and communication to give journalism a chance as it can help them reach and inform the broader community.

“I believe that students should still pursue journalism and find ways to [become involved in] it in high school because it gives you a great opportunity to seek out new information and delve deeper into what’s going on in the world,” de Leon said. “Oftentimes we’re very prone to just falling into very narrow mindsets. Journalism helps you to open your mind to new ideas.”

Journalism not only allows the writer to discover a whole new world of information, but it also gives the readers that same experience. Students should seek out participation in their school or local city’s publications so they can continue the legacy, and continue telling the stories that need to be heard. Adviser of The Scarlet Scroll Newspaper and previous newspaper/publisher employee, Nicole Howard ‘85, touches on why she views student involvement in journalism is crucial.

“I do think that today’s journalist, who’s really just seeking for the truth and really looking for what the whole story is and covering all aspects of this story (not just one side) is very important,” Howard said.

Photo by Sam De Guzman, Copy Chief

As she looks at the world around her, as well as observing her own students within the newspaper, she notices that changes are constantly occurring. She acknowledges that a lack of popularity in the profession doesn’t mean that it is coming to an end, but blossoming into a new beginning.

“I don’t think that journalism will ever die in its entirety,” Howard said. “I think that journalism as we know it today is changing and evolving.”

Howard sees journalism as a chance for students to use their talents and skills in the real world. She encourages those passionate in the field to continue working hard and chasing their dreams. Students should take journalism as an opportunity to use their voice, and pursue it for the right reasons. Howard notes that the world would not be the same without journalists, so we need to continue sharing our stories with society.

“If you get enough experience behind you, and enough confidence behind you, and enough courage, then go out and be a true or independent journalist,” Howard said. “Carry out all the good parts of journalism and all the important parts, because our society needs to know what’s happening [in the world today].”

in car accidents compared to any other age groups. They face a higher risk, especially when they drive at night or during the weekends. Sophomore Brady Chang is currently in the process of learning how to drive. With a learner’s permit, Chang still needs an adult who is 21 years old or older to supervise him when he is behind the wheel.

“I’ve been preparing for the driving test by driving my parents around a neighborhood,” Chang said.

Teens’ inexperience behind the wheel makes them more susceptible to distraction behind the wheel. Talking or texting on the phone takes a student’s focus off the task of driving, and reduces their ability to react to a roadway hazard, incident, or inclement weather. Distracted driving can take on many forms beyond texting and talking on the cell phone. Some teens may try to use their driving time to eat their morning breakfast, drink coffee, apply makeup, or to change the radio station. Teens can also be distracted by the addition of passengers in the vehicle. Any distraction is a dangerous distraction.

To pass the test, students need to clearly show their state’s DMV that they understand the rules of the road and how to drive a car safely before they can receive their license.

It’s crucial that students understand state road and highway laws in addition to how the vehicle works before they actually step on the pedal and go off on their own. Senior Milan Games received her license her sophomore year, which is common for many teens. She spent long hours studying, and practicing to get her license. She felt very nervous getting her license, but she

believes studying helps.

“I would say the best way to prepare is to study and pay attention when your parents are driving or your sibling is driving,” Games said.

Each state has its own specific written driving test that includes local traffic laws. For example, Milan took her test in Texas and California. She addresses the disparities between the two states’ driving process.

“In Texas, they have a website where you can complete tests and videos, to which you automatically can get your driver’s permit,” Milan said. “[In California], you need to have a manual and then take an online test at the DMV.”

Junior Stella Pham looked to her parents for advice and more instruction. Pham found that the learning process was not as difficult as she expected because she was able to learn from her parents’ experiences.

“I went on road trips with my family a lot,” Pham said. “I asked my parents about the signs, symbols, and markings.”

While the process of driving may be very exciting for new students, building a solid foundation of safe driving habits is important to start driving and become more independent. The greatest dangers that lead to fatalities like underage drinking, inconsistent seat belt use, speeding, and distracted driving are not worth risking people’s lives. Listen to your parents, learn and follow the rules and educate yourself so you can create safe driving habits that may save your life, or the lives of passengers and others on the road.

on the Road

Courtney Cao Staff Reporter

HIGH SCHOOLERS BEHIND THE WHEEL! Games drives her sister around in her car. They run errands before it is dark. Both hands on the wheel is very important so you don’t lose control of the wheel. Photo Courtesy of Milan Games.

Helpful Workflow Apps for Students

Suzanna Tran Staff Reporter

WORKFLOW WAYS Online education and digital tools have become essential for students to manage their workflow efficiently. With increasing academic demands, apps like Canvas, Notion, and ChatGPT help students stay organized, track assignments, and enhance productivity. Image courtesy of Freepik.

As students progress through high school, the workload increases significantly, making time management and productivity essential. Many students face challenges with procrastination, meeting deadlines, and staying organized while balancing school with their personal lives. To address these challenges, students turn to various digital tools to help manage the workflow.

According to a recent survey of 30 students at Mater Dei, 66% of students use applications to manage their productivity. The most commonly used app is the required Canvas app, which features a to-do list and calendar, allowing students to track their assignments and mark them as completed.

Sophomore Olivia Wills feels that the school has provided a great application for students to manage their assignments with ease.

“Canvas is really helpful,” Wills said. “It’s handy to have an app to keep track of everything for you, but in group work, it can be challenging since you have to merge and talk to your partners.”

However, many students still seek more comprehensive

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workflow solutions. One such popular tool is ChatGPT, which some students use to quickly answer questions and organize tasks. Senior Khoa Dang’s productivity has been enhanced by using ChatGPT.

“It helps me keep track of most things,” Dang said. “In school, ChatGPT has been very helpful. I’ve been doing my work pretty fast compared to last year because of it.”

When asked what features they would like in an ideal workflow app, students prioritized having a to-do list for an easier assignment managing experience, along with a planner to help them stay on top of the deadlines. In addition, some students also find digital sticky notes, or note-taking sites to be very helpful as they are able to create reminders and personalize their managing system. Some other features that are suggested by students are calendars, teamwork collaboration, time blocking, and timeline features.

Dang shares his opinion on workflow app features after experimenting with several different applications throughout his academic career.

“I think a workflow app should be transparent and divided into smaller sections, like how we break down cycles in the newspaper class,” Dang said.

B eyond Canvas and ChatGPT, there are numerous other apps that provide features that can improve student productivity. Notion offers a powerful combination of note-taking, to-do lists, calendar integration, and project management. While some students may find it overwhelming, it can be customized for simplicity.

L aunched in 2016, Notion’s users, according to Capterra, is “the most innovative all-in-one productive tool and highly customizable software.” Senior Roman Manner talks about his experiences with the software and how it provides structure for his academic life.

“Notion is a really great tool if you want to organize your life in a structured and consistent way,” Manner said. “It’s like a more complex version of Reminders. It takes a lot of commitment, but I like it.”

SNO Flow is another app designed for workflow organization, but some students believe it could be improved by breaking tasks into smaller steps. SNO Flow is described as an effective collaborative site designed especially for the academic newsroom. It helps with tracking story elements though

workflow, grading, managing deadlines, and organizing content. All these features are designed to help journalism classrooms run smoothly and efficiently.

Senior and The Scarlet Scroll Newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief Charlotte de Leon has been using SNO Flow for three years as the main tool to manage her own workflow as well as other members’ submissions.

“SNO Flow really helps Newspaper as a whole to function by organizing our stories so that everyone can clearly determine what their assignment is, and turn them in to editors and Ms. Howard in a relatively easy way,” de Leon said.

While SNO Flow is designed for collaborative work, Google Calendar is a perfect tool for students to manage their productivity and deadlines. It is a digital calendar created by Google, easily accessible, and automatically syncs to the user’s Google account.

Even though Canvas has a built-in calendar within the app, junior Chris Canzoneri is still using Google Calendar as a tool to manage his schedule more effectively.

“I think Google Calendar is very effective for time management and productivity,” Canzoneri said. “Advantages include reminders and check-ins that are given to you automatically. I would highly recommend it to other students.”

Another option that is very common for most students at Mater Dei are to-do lists. Canvas has done a great job in helping students stay on track. Students can easily track any assignments, deadlines and tasks that need to be completed in the day. Junior Joshua Jorgensen has had three years of using the to-do list to help him stay on top of his assignments and tests.

“I think it’s highly effective, but the main drawback is that it only displays tasks for the day rather than upcoming assignments,” Jorgensen said. “If you have a big project approaching and it doesn’t appear in advance, that could be a major oversight.”

As the demands of high school continue to grow, students continuously look for the right tools that best suit their needs. While no single app may be perfect, a combination of these tools can help students stay on top of their workload, reduce procrastination, and achieve a better balance between academics and personal life.

How Mater Dei Students are Recognized for Character at School

At Mater Dei High School, students are celebrated for more than just their academic achievements or athletic abilities—they are also recognized for embodying the core values of Honor, Glory, and Love. The Monarch Character Award is a special recognition that highlights students who consistently demonstrate positive actions, classroom etiquette, and leadership qualities. This initiative helps foster a sense of community, allowing students to excel academically while also contributing to the school’s values in meaningful ways.

Sophomore Amy Vutran, who was recently honored with the Monarch Character Award, is proud of the recognition she received.

“I was surprised when I first saw the email, but it felt really nice to be recognized,” Vutran said. “It said, ‘Congratulations, you’ve been acknowledged for your classroom etiquette and focus.’ I really appreciated it.”

The award is not based solely on academic performance or grades; it reflects positive behavior both in and outside the classroom. Vutran believes a combination of both effort and character led to her recognition.

“I think it’s about both,” Vutran said. “You have to stay focused on your work, but it’s also about having a positive attitude and treating others with respect. It’s about being a good person.”

Like many of her peers, Vutran wasn’t familiar with the award before receiving it, but after understanding its significance she recognizes the award’s value. She believes that students should focus on their personal growth, letting recognition follow naturally.

“I had no idea this award even existed before I got it, but I think it’s a great way to appreciate students who consistently do the right thing,” Vutran said. “You don’t have to do anything out of the ordinary—just stay focused and be respectful.”

Sophomore Camille Cardenas, who also received the Monarch Character Award for her classroom focus and etiquette, shares a similar experience. While grateful for the recognition, she remains humble about her achievements.

“I didn’t do anything extraordinary,” Cardenas said. “I just

stayed on task and worked hard.”

Cardenas explained that consistency in her effort was what made a difference. She then talked about the importance of efficiency and staying on top of tasks.

“I think it’s about staying focused and keeping up with the work,” Cardenas said. “I didn’t try to stand out—I just did what I needed to do.”

The award is a way to be acknowledged for the small, yet significant, actions they take every day. The true value of the award lies in being recognized for character.

“I really appreciate that it’s not just about grades,” Cardenas said. “It’s about being a good person, showing respect to others, and staying consistent in your efforts.”

Kendra Hart, Assistant Principal of Catholic Identity and Formation and Religious Studies Department Chair, explained that the Monarch Character Award is part of a broader effort to promote the school’s core values. Hart was one of the first faculty members in a student connection meeting to bring up the concept of the award, where the goal is to bring more exciting ways to engage students in good deeds or activities.

“We want to recognize students who demonstrate Honor, Glory, and Love in their daily lives,” Hart said. “Whether it’s leading a prayer, helping a classmate, or showing consistent focus in class, we want to acknowledge that.”

The award system uses the Five Star App, in which teachers can recognize students for positive behavior. The acknowledgment is typically followed by a note explaining why the student was chosen.

“ Teachers can mark students for actions like leading a class in prayer, helping others, or just being consistently focused and engaged,” Hart said.

The rewards that follow the recognition also add an extra layer of motivation for students. Those who receive Monarch Character Awards can earn prizes such as cookie passes, student store credit, and entries into raffles for additional incentives.

“It’s nice to be recognized for your character, and getting rewards like a cookie pass is a fun bonus,” Vutran said.

For both students, the Monarch Character Award has been a reminder of the importance of doing the right thing.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about doing your best and showing respect,” Cardenas said. “That’s what really matters.”

The Monarch Character Award program continues to inspire students at Mater Dei to stay grounded in their values, reinforcing the idea that recognition for positive behavior isn’t just about a reward—it’s about creating a stronger, more supportive school community.

Spencer Foster Staff Reporter

What Drives Mater Dei’s Marching Band?

Khoa Dang Staff Reporter

The Mater Dei High School Marching Band is a unique and dedicated group of musicians who bring energy and spirit to school events. Whether they are performing at football games, competitions, or community events, the band members showcase talent, discipline, and passion for music.

For many members, the love for marching band stems from a desire to create music and be part of something bigger than themselves. Junior Xavier Luna explains how the band stands out despite its size.

“I think what differentiates us from other programs is that we can create good music and look good despite having a smaller group,” Luna said. “We make it work by putting in the most effort we can at all times.”

One of the key ways the marching band connects with the rest of the school is by performing at various athletic events.

“Most people see marching band at football games either playing pep tunes in the stands or on the field during halftime,” Luna said. “But we also occasionally play at basketball games.”

B eyond sporting events, the band is also involved in community performances. Senior Paul Le highlights the significance of certain community events and their impact.

“In my opinion, the most memorable performances we’ve participated in are the Christmas parades and Special Games,” Le said. “They aren’t outstanding achievements, but they come with the act of supporting various communities and people.”

Preparation for major performances requires discipline and dedication. The band follows a structured rehearsal schedule, especially leading up to competitions.

“Most, if not all, of our preparation comes in the normally scheduled rehearsal times,” Luna said. “Rehearsals normally last for three hours two days out of the week. Leading up to competitions, it is rare that we have extra rehearsals unless it is really necessary.”

With every performance, the marching band continues to evolve. Le discusses the goals for future events that the band will participate in.

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“Some goals that the marching band has for the future are to participate in more community events, further develop our skills, and grow our band with new upcoming interested individuals,” Le said. “Marching band season is in the fall to winter times, so we don’t have any major events coming up, but many of our members are involved with other parts of the instrumental music program that has major events soon.”

The passion and hard work of the band members do not go unnoticed. Fernando Martinez, the Director of the Mater Dei Marching Band, emphasizes the musical rigor that sets them apart from other high school marching bands.

“While we may not be very different in terms of how marching bands function within a school, we do pride ourselves in selecting music repertoire that truly challenges each individual on the field as much as in a seated concert setting,” Martinez said. “Other groups may give higher priority to the visual movement aspects of marching. When we do compete, we usually score higher in the music category, and judges often acknowledge our musical efforts and achievements throughout the marching season.”

Like any team, the band thrives on unity and perseverance. Martinez offers advice to students considering joining the program.

“You don’t have to already play an instrument to join,” Martinez said. “Since we arrange the music to our specific members, we are able to work with new and experienced musicians. Get in contact with me as soon as possible to discuss instruments that you are interested in and potentially get an early start before next year’s season.”

The Marching Band consistently demonstrates commitment and passion through competitions, school functions, and community performances. This commitment to excellence, teamwork, and musical artistry makes them an essential part of the Mater Dei experience.

The Power behind the Dance Conservatory team’s Moves

Dance Conservatory is one of the three advanced dance teams at Mater Dei. The students are all experienced dancers who have been dancing for many years. Many of these students are training for a hopeful professional career in dance for the future through experiences such as performing at athletic games, school rallies, and community events.

Dance Conservatory practices weekly in jazz, ballet, and contemporary movement. Guest choreographers come in two to three times a semester to help them advance in these skills.

Director of Dance Rochelle Mapes heads up the program. She holds both a bachelors and masters degree in dance from Cal State University, Long Beach. Her professional accolades include television credits, choreography for professional stage productions, and more. Mapes was encouraged to join the MD faculty and head up the dance program with the promise that she could fashion her own vision for the Dance Program. “I was really excited to shape my own vision, and Dance Conservatory is that vision,” Mapes said. “Dance Conservatory can allow me to shape that experience of preprofessional training that could be combined in the dance team experience.”

Dance Conservatory is a very elite group, and it is difficult to join as a new dancer. Most dancers have more than three years of experience. They do not have a required amount of years that they must accomplish, rather Mapes looks for the abilities that they do have and foresees what they can accomplish.

CONFIDENT IN RED

The Dance Conservatory team performs in front of the school for the annual Fall Rally. On Aug. 30, the team wowed the crowd with the skill and passion they have for dance. “They were so good, the crowd was hyping them up like crazy, and they were so talented,” sophomore Sara Ramirez said. Photo by Kayla Hoffman, Staff Reporter.

“We see the potential that we see in the dancers,” Mapes said. “We definitely see some students join electives first and we see them grow their way up to join the Conservatory.”

Dance Conservatory has two different levels: the Red Team for lower classmen and the Gray Team for upperclassmen. Fundamentally, the Gray Team is at a Varsity level and mostly contains juniors and seniors with challenging training and level-appropriate dances. On the other hand, the Red Team is intermediate/advanced level dancers.

Freshman Haeden Hancock is in the Dance Conservatory Red company. Hancock really enjoys Conservatory and sees it as something she can always look forward to each week. The first time she went to the workshops before auditioning, she felt challenged because of the skill many dancers already had. This insecurity faded fast as she was able to catch on quickly and make it on the team.

“I feel like it was a bit challenging, seeing how many people auditioned and how many spaces they had open, but other than that, it was not too hard,” Hancock said.

Hancock has been dancing since she was four years old and is planning on participating in the Dance Conservatory for the next three years of her high school career. It has already helped her become a better dancer. She has put so much effort into dance with inspiration from her mom who was the one who encouraged her to pursue her dreams in dance.

level of commitment that everyone brings to every rehearsal is something that is unmatched in any other programs I’ve been in,” junior

“Dance is something I have always dreamed of, and my mom is the one inspiring me to pursue my dreams,” Hancock said.

Although Hancock is just a freshman, she has a big passion for dance. She was only one of the two freshmen who were admitted into the Honors Dance program at Mater Dei. Hancock puts the effort into her dancing skills every day to prove that she deserves a spot in the team. She is very grateful to have the support of her mom.

“Dance is something my mom has always dreamed of doing but could never afford,” Hancock said.

Senior Avery Ross Ryan is in Dance Conservatory Gray. Ross feels that dance has become more and more of a passion each day. She has high hopes for her future. Ross Ryan enjoys dance and plans to pursue it after graduation.

“I plan on majoring in dance at the University of Alabama or joining the pom line,” Ross Ryan said.

Dance Conservatory teaches discipline and leadership. There is also a warm sense of community within the dancers. Mapes make them feel welcome and at home.

An alternate option that students can take if they are interested in dance but have never had dance training before is Dance Electives. Dance Electives is a class where students, who are not yet at the level of a dance team, choose to get some added experience. Dance Electives is also an option for students who do not have the time for the rigors of a dance team or wish to dance for musical theater or just to have a new hobby.

Mapes highly recommends dance electives to anyone who wants to join dance but is not yet ready to join an advanced team. Many of the dancers that are now in Dance Conservatory were previously in dance electives and worked their way to the level of Dance Conservatory. Dance electives are a full year commitment but the dancers only perform twice; at Christmas in the Corner and the spring Synthesis concert.

“ To new dancers, I really recommend dance electives,” Mapes said. “They can work their way up to join the actual Dance Conservatory Team.”

Dance Conservatory is a very beautiful performing art and has opened doors for many dancers. This elite group works hard every day in order to shine in their performances. Each and every dancer puts a lot of effort into their performances, and it shows.

BRING IN THE BEAT Senior Ivan Larios stands under the sun as the band practices. This allows them to emphasize the spirit of the Marching Band at every event they participate in. “The

Xavier Luna said. Photo courtesy of Abby Abad.

Sofia Casarin Staff Reporter

How Catholic Education Influences Mater Dei Students

Charlotte de Leon Editor-In-Chief

OPEN MINDS AND HEARTS Senior Julianna Botros explains her stance on the death penalty in a Socratic Seminar. On Thursday, Mar. 6, seniors enrolled in the Peace and Justice religion course participated in a Socratic Seminar to assess their knowledge on human life and dignity while encouraging open-minded debate on these current issues affecting society today. Botros appreciates how religion classes inform students on Catholic doctrine while also providing students a safe space to explore different perspectives on ethics and morality. “The Socratic Seminar helped me view social justice issues from the perspective of Catholic Social Teachings,” Botros said. “I got to hear the differing opinions of my classmates which opened my eyes to new perspectives.” Photo by of Suzanna Tran, Staff Reporter.

Founded on the core values of Honor, Glory, and Love, Mater Dei’s Catholic identity is what makes it stand out from other educational institutions. From religion classes incorporated into each student’s schedule, to many prayer and spiritual opportunities, Mater Dei provides the necessary tools needed to help grow one’s understanding of the Catholic faith and its corresponding ethics.

Campus Ministry is a program at Mater Dei which coordinates events to establish a faith-filled community both on and off the school grounds. Their carefully planned retreats, in particular, have impacted sophomore Anabelle Tran’s life by assisting her in cultivating a personal relationship with God.

“Campus Ministry opportunities [such as] retreats at Mater Dei have had a profound impact on my faith life,” Tran said. “They give me a chance to step away from the real world and truly reflect on my relationship with God.”

Service is another integral aspect of living out the Catholic faith. This is integrated into the Mater Dei curriculum as 80 hours of service are required to graduate. In learning to connect with others and give back to communities in need, Tran strengthens her faith by building a sense of community with those around her.

“One thing I have learned from being at Mater Dei as a Catholic school is the importance of faith in everyday life,” Tran said. “The emphasis on service and sense of community

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One Shining Student

Sheridan Hofer Staff Reporter

Several students at Mater Dei have already showcased their entrepreneurship skills by opening their own businesses during high school. Senior Geneva Paz began her own organization, Sun Still Shines, in June of 2024. Her website is aimed at supporting other teenagers who seek community when struggling with eating disorders or mental health issues. Sun Still Shines has already been a great success for Paz, offering products such as hoodies, blankets, and hats with the catchy name branded on the items. Paz says her inspiration for her business stems from her own personal struggles her junior year.

“Coming from treatment my junior year of high school for my eating disorder, I had daily struggles and still continue to fight them now,” Paz said. “Having a business to support those struggling with mental health, especially those similar to me in more ways than one, is an amazing way to show that everyone goes through something, and can make a positive impact and help others.”

Some of the proceeds from each purchase on sunstillshines.com goes towards helping organizations that share Paz’s commitment to empower those currently working towards recovery from eating disorders. Any business owner knows that starting a new business from the ground up comes with hardship at the start. Paz takes any obstacles in her path as a learning opportunity to better herself as an owner.

“Being a business owner comes with a lot of setbacks, but throughout this process, you learn how to problem solve very easily along the way,” Paz said. “I also have learned to always have a solution to things that inevitably may occur.”

Paz’s website is usually discovered through

has shaped my perspective and made an impact in my life. I am able to see my faith in action by serving those around me.”

Catholic service has provided students with the clarity needed to discern how students want to live their own lives.

Senior Preston Jensen describes how Mater Dei retreats motivated him to dedicate his life in service to others.

“ Through retreats, I’ve learned how to incorporate a relationship with God into my everyday life,” Jensen said. “This has made a difference for me because my relationship with God is everything and stands above all my life. By bringing me closer to God in the service of others, being able to bring the love of God to others has become my life’s mission.”

From daily prayer opportunities in the Chapel to monthly Masses, community prayer is another way to enrich the Catholic faith at Mater Dei. Junior Andrew Evans feels God’s presence most clearly when he attends all-school Masses.

“Campus ministry has helped my [faith life] by setting up Masses,” Evans said. “They really bring an opportunity for me as a Catholic to go to Mass more often to see the beauty of God.”

Mater Dei‘s religion classes deepen each students’ understanding of Catholic doctrine, tradition, and morals. Although she is not Catholic, senior Tina Lam values religion classes for their teachings in morality and values as well as personal growth and reflection.

“Although I come from a different religious background, being at Mater Dei has deepened my understanding of Catholic beliefs and traditions,” Lam said. “Religion classes have encouraged me to reflect on my own beliefs. They’ve helped me see the similarities between different faiths, especially when it comes to moral values and ethics. The focus on service, ethics, and community is something that can benefit anyone, regarding meaningful discussions about life, morality, and purposes, which are valuable lessons for everyone.”

Not only do religion classes benefit students through their academic content, but the religion teachers at Mater Dei personalize each student’s experience. Lam is grateful for the open and welcoming attitude the religion teachers have towards everyone, regardless of their background.

“I really appreciate the strong sense of community, especially the guidance of our religion teachers, who support us throughout the school year and lead us through meaningful events,” Lam said. “It creates a welcoming environment where everyone feels supported.”

Religion has helped Lam broaden her mindset by being more open to different ideas and learning the importance of choosing to spread love to others.

”[Religion classes have] made me more open-minded and reflective,” Lam said. “I think being in this environment has helped me grow as a person by reinforcing the importance of kindness and service in everyday life.”

Mater Dei’s Catholic environment has made an invaluable impact on many students’ lives, both academically and personally. Through Evans has grown into a better version of himself, both spiritually and personally.

“Catholic education has changed me as a person,” Evans said. “It helped me to become a better person and brought sense to my faith that everything you do kindly and generously will be rewarded.”

Evans hopes that students will recognize and appreciate the loving environment resulting from Mater Dei’s Catholic identity, and that they may be brought closer to God in the process.

“I think students will come to realize what a blessing it is to be able to come to this school and how everybody is nice, and it’s a really kind environment,” Evans said. “There are just good people here. The school being Catholic, helps people come to Jesus and find themselves closer to God.”

advertisements on her own Instagram account which links potential customers to her online shop in her bio, making it accessible to anyone interested. She also announced the merchandise launch through an Instagram post.

“Marketing was definitely a big key for success in Sun Still Shines,” Paz said. “Also, being able to catch people’s eyes on the latest trends and genuinely be authentic about what you want people to see from your business was helpful,.”

Paz will graduate from Mater Dei on May 31, 2025, almost a year after starting Sun Still Shines. Finishing high school raises the question of whether she wishes to continue this business post-graduation. But, Paz claims she is more serious than ever about her work.

“Now that I’m a senior and graduation is approaching faster everyday, I am getting more serious about wanting to continue Sun Still Shines in the future,” Paz said. “I would love to continue to get the message out about eating disorders and mental health to help support those who [may feel] lost.”

Many suffer with their own struggles silently. Paz has shown how working through one’s own problems can lead to both success and helping others dealing with similar issues. Monarchs can look to the examples Paz has set, using her success and genuineness as an inspiration. No matter the business, from a simple lemonade stand to large corporations, business entrepreneurs learn new things each day, growing both personally and professionally.

“A big piece of knowledge I have learned in my business was to take it step-by-step and not worry about mistakes,” Paz said. “Mistakes will come, but it’s how you overcome it [that matters].”

KINDNESS SHINES BRIGHT. Senior Geneva Paz poses for press photos as she announces the launch of her business, Sun Still Shines through an Instagram post. The company’s devotion is to eating disorder recovery and mental health support among teenagers. “I started my brand Sun Still Shines when I recognized the need for additional resources and support for individuals’ recovery from eating disorders,” Paz said. Photo courtesy of Geneva Paz.

Thinking Ahead: Choosing Classes for Next Year

Victoria Cox Staff Reporter, and Ava Blanco Staff Reporter

The future is exciting — but for some, uncertain. Every March, Mater Dei students in grades 9 through 11 can access their class lists for the next year through Aeries, the school’s official gradebook. Here, students will see the next level of courses they are set to take, and submit requests for new electives or alternative courses. With the wide variety of classes for students to choose from, not every student is going to take the same classes.

Students may pick from a variety of classes that cater to their interests, with Mater Dei offering everything from ASL (American Sign Language) to Zoology. However, some courses are required to graduate. Counselor Marybeth Nguyen ‘12 lays out the general curriculum pathway for each and every Mater Dei student.

“You need four years of Religion, four years of English, three years of History (because freshmen don’t take it), at least three years of Math, a minimum of two years of science, a minimum of two years of [a foreign] language, [and] one year of visual or performing arts,” Nguyen said. “We always recommend doing four years of math and science, typically, for certain colleges.”

Classes are also divided into three different academic levels: College-prep, Honors, and Advanced Placement (AP). College-prep level classes are the base classes students are put into such as freshman year English and Biology. Based on student performance on previous test scores such as the High School Placement Test (HSPT), students may be allowed to take Honors or AP courses. Nguyen emphasizes that balance between courses is key, given the more rigorous nature of Honors and AP classes.

“If you have straight A’s and did awesome freshman year, you might automatically be invited to take all Honors and AP in the next year, but at that point, we’d recommend meeting [with a] counselor just to talk about balance,” Nguyen said. “Because if you take on too much too soon, we want to make sure you have enough time to be successful in those classes.”

Electives also offer students the opportunity to explore their creative interests, such as film, visual arts, or theatre. While only one year is required, students are welcome to develop and explore their interests for all four years, and for some, up to the AP or honors level. Nguyen encourages students to look out for electives that will enhance their high school experience.

“I’m going to pursue chemical engineering,” Vu said. “I took AP Chemistry this year, and I found chemistry really interesting. I always want to solve problems. [I’m also in] AP Calculus AB, and next year, I’m also probably going to take [AP] Calculus BC, and AP Physics.”

However, not every class will be connected with a student’s desired career. Many classes, especially those such as English or Math, develop a student’s critical thinking and problem solving skills. Vu shares how AP Literature has become a valuable experience for him, even though the class isn’t directly related to his future major.

“I think one of the most impactful classes I’ve taken is AP Literature, despite it not actually pertaining to what I want to do in college,” Vu said. “I just love the literature selection this year, and I think it really taught me how to think emotionally and not think so rigidly. It taught me how to interpret text and analyze documents.”

As an Honors/AP student himself, Vu also recognizes the importance of balancing higher workloads with other classes that are easier to handle. He encourages his peers to focus on what they can handle first, rather than try and take all of the hardest classes.

“You don’t always have to go the max AP/Honors route,” Vu said. “I think it’s always important to just think about your work-life balance first. And then after that, choose specialized classes that you think you’ll be more prepared for and those can be more useful for your [career], if you can handle it.”

C ourse selection also allows freshmen to have the chance to explore more courses outside of the standard curriculum, which for ninth-graders is much more fixed than upperclassmen. However, many freshmen still have opportunities for accelerated, enjoyable, and challenging courses. For example, many students take a block of weights for their sport. A weights block serves as a way students can get exercise and better prepare for their individual sport, whether that be football, wrestling, or swim. Freshman Chloe Shelton elaborates on why she finds weights to be helpful as a nonacademic class.

“Weights is technically a required class for basketball, but I found it as a great opportunity to work out and get better at my sport,” Shelton said. “I hope to continue to grow in basketball.”

Crossword Puzzle

TEACHABLE MOMENTS Honors Chemistry teacher Agnes Faltas helps students with a lab on chemical reactions. Classes like Hn. Chemistry allows students to both fulfill their science graduation requirements, and to challenge themselves with a faster paced honorslevel course. Counselor Marybeth Nguyen emphasizes the importance of taking Chemistry before college. “Colleges really like to see Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, all three of those, in general, that tends to be the trend,” Nguyen said. Photo by Thi Nguyen

“I went into student leadership because ASB is fun to me and I love helping out in school,” Duncan said. “I picked MUN because it sounded really interesting and I wanted to go on the Greece trip to see the world.”

Choosing an elective helps to balance out a student’s schedule, and gives them the opportunity to discover new interests in an academic environment. Duncan finds that they are worth continuing in the future.

“I would do these courses again,” Duncan said. “They are all very fun or interesting to me.”

Picking classes for next year is an exciting task, but one that requires careful thought. Balance in schedules and interest in subjects are both important factors to consider. Nguyen stresses the importance of meeting with your counselor, and a willingness to try new things.

Talk with us,” Nguyen said. “Just because you can take all Honors and AP [classes] doesn’t always mean that you should. [And] the electives [are there to] build your own interest and experience.”

ACROSS

2. Video game; similar to Tetris

4. One-under-par

6. Advanced competitive choir ensemble

7. Strength and conditioning coach

8. European language offered by MD

DOWN

1. MD Head Lacrosse Coach

3. Senior water polo player; UCSB commit

5. Editor-in-Chief of the Scarlet Scroll

6. Application with a to-do list and calendar 9. Scarlet Scroll Adviser