The Senior Issue: MIHS Class of 2020 by mihsislander

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

INSIDE | JUNE 2020

ABOUT

The MIHS Islander

9100 SE 42nd St. Mercer Island, WA 98040 mihsislander@gmail.com www.mihsislander.org

EDITORS IN CHIEF

PUBLICATION NOTICES

Purpose: To provide news to the Mercer Island High School student body and members of the surrounding community in a man-

ner that accurately reflects readers’ interests. The MIHS Islander is an open student forum, and the opinions expressed within do not represent those of the high school or district administration. Ads: To print an ad in a future issue of The MIHS Islander, contact Business Manager Ethan Preston at mihsislander@gmail.com for rates and information. Corrections: We pride ourselves on accurate, fact-based journalism. If you believe The MIHS Islander has gotten a fact or quote wrong, please contact us and we’ll print a correction in the next issue. Privacy: All electronic mail messages in connection with Mercer Island School District business which are sent or received by this account are subject to the Washington State Public Records Act and may be disclosed to third parties. Nondiscrimination Notification: The Mercer Island School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The Mercer Island School District offers classes in many College and Career Readiness Programs, admission to which is non-discriminatory. Lack of English-language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in these programs. The following people have been designed to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator; Harrassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) Coordinator; Title IX Compliance Coordinator: Erin Battersby, Senior Director. (206) 230-6227, erin.battersby@mercerislandschools.org Section 504 & ADA Coordinator: Dr. Lindsay Myatich, Director. (206) 236-3326, lindsay.myatich@mercerislandschools.org

THE SENIOR CLass To Our Peers,

THE CLASS OF

2020

None of us thought that Thursday, March 12 would be our last day of high school. We never thought it would be the last time we would almost run people over in C-Lot, the last time we would get stuck in the intersection between the 400 and 200 halls, the last time we would greet Jean and Jane or the last time we would ask our teachers questions about their personal lives to delay their lesson. We thought our ‘lasts’ of high school would be special, a series of grand finales that the whole school celebrated together. Instead, they were these little mundane moments that made up our high school experience – part of a daily routine that we took for granted. We didn’t acknowledge these moments like we would have if we’d known they were our last. All of us were excited for the future, ready for high school to end and to move on to the next chapter of our lives. But those last few weeks of school felt like beginnings: the beginning of spring, the beginning of college acceptance season, the beginning of second semester, the beginning of spring sports, the beginning (kind of) of senioritis. We were getting excited about the ending; we were even over high school, but this was not the ending we imagined or ever wanted. Amongst the uncertainty, the defining events of senior year did not happen in their traditional form. Instead of walking across the stage surrounded by friends and family, we were in our high school parking lot. We didn’t get to dress up for prom, spending way too much money on hair, makeup and dresses, struggling to put on boutonnieres, and acting uncomfortably during lengthy photoshoots. We also didn’t have a traditional senior assembly and dance, senior breakfast, senior mural, senior skip day, senior yearbook signing and chances to say last goodbyes to favorite staff members from all our years in MISD. None of this is fair. We were robbed of our classic rites of passage and no matter how many people tell us

Letter From the Editors | JUNE 2020 these experiences are overrated we still didn’t have them in their expected form. Put frankly, this ending to high school sucks. We spent what ended up being our last week of high school stressing over prom groups and debating whether we would be able to decorate our grad caps. It feels weird that these worries that consumed our lives no longer hold any weight. We’ve all had to shift our mindsets and our priorities. We are experiencing loss and we are grieving. While these losses may be negligible compared to losing loved ones, they are still losses that we deserve to grieve. No matter how many Zoom calls we make, they can’t compare to the lost time that we would have spent with our friends before we all go our separate ways. We may have lost a lot, but COVID-19 can’t take away all that we have accomplished and experienced together over the last four years. We still deserve to celebrate that however we can. Even though we didn’t have a proper ending, we should still be excited for the next chapter in our lives and all that it holds. One thing is for sure: if the Class of 2020 was infamous before, we will certainly never be forgotten now. But in all seriousness, history will never forget this moment and neither will we. This is a time for us to come together in solidarity and lean on each other for support. To quote the most classic high school movie that we all had hopes of recreating, “We’re all in this together.” We have faith that this disappointment will subside and we will all move forward to bigger and better things. That said, we would still love to see everyone gather together as a class one more time. Till then, stay home, stay safe, stay healthy and of course, go Islanders! All our love,

Photo Courtesy Joe Chen

Photo Courtesy MARIA Reyes

Photo Courtesy AUDREY WEN

Photo Courtesy TArA MANHAS

Natalie Chen, Kiran D’Souza, Isabel Funk, Ellie Gottesman, Alli Hixson, Kyu Kim, Annie Poole and Maya Virdell Seniors on The MIHS Islander Staff

Photo Courtesy CLAIRE CHEUNG

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

MI ‘Til We Die... I, Addi Arvish, of musical and marching body, do hereby bestow the following to Molly Seneker: my totally awesome clap routine at the end of all roll offs in marching band.

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Senior Wills

I, the one known as Baebler, of meathead mind and snack shack body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Jack Rowe, I leave my locker, and should he want it, the fabled number 11. To Cole Drayton, I leave my duties as Tight End. To Derek Osman, I leave my pass rush ability. Finally, to Will Kendrick, I leave my unquenchable desire to terrorize KingCo running I, Bridger Bourke, of ADD mind and marching backs. Bring home the banner next year boys! body, do hereby bequeath to the new band president: the presidential jacket, visor, and I, Elena Briggs, of 1,000 IQ mind and kidneyless body, I, Ellie Bertram, of a procrastinating mind and tall responsibility of providing BSA with tasty breakfast do hereby bequeath the following: To Abby Moeller, body, do hereby bequeath the following: to my son, treats. Lead the program into the future and enjoy the yell. Do me proud. To Marko Loop and Aaron Levin, Kevin Wang, what’s left of my sanity to deal with your early Monday mornings. To the Trombones, I leave the plastic cow, treat her well. And to Brooke, the mock babies; to Justin Shen, googles to keep your passion and grit never ceases to inspire me, Austin, Charlotte, Brandon, Everett, and Lucas I leave my the spit of the swim kids out of your eyes; to Eli Nho, thank you. Keep it $A$$Y, keep it BRA$$Y. 2017 Coaches Award. To Michelle Lyon and Chloe my edgiest beaches; and to the rest of my mock Larson, I leave Gary the snail and the children, the ability to object without crying. i’ll miss I, Carter Burr, of keen mind and thicc body, prestigious softball team. May you maintain you dearly :’( do hereby bequeath the following: The all our win streak and hit #dingerz all season. powerful safety, and more importantly, I, Gracie Burke, of intuitive mind and lactose punting position to Nathan Buchan, be intolerant body do bequeath the following… To I, Quinn Casey, of spirited mind and wise with the power of the punter. And to Tessa Kim: all my playlists from country to lo-fi dancing body, do hereby bequeath my Derek Osman, may you attain the power of to trap to Hannah Montana. I hope one day, islander spirit with Alex Thon, a D1volleyballer. the Mint Gatorade bars from JoJo, as they will you will confuse your very own freshman with Please wear my maroon and white with guide you on your quest. vastly different genres each morning at 6:15am. proper Mercer Island pride. I leave the To my brother, Tommy Burke: in addition to my beloved spirit staff in the precious, small drill sweatshirts, the utmost discretion in dealing hands of Susanna Blohm. Next, I give Graphic by Alli Hixson with Mom and Dad. As the only high schooler my awkward and failed attempts at triple jumping I, Cienna Ciobanu, of Gerald mind and tan body, do in Mormon Manor now, good luck. To Miya to Nick Weiss, Munasip Ertakus, and Jason Dhand, hereby bequeath the following: to Carys, Fashion & Nakata: my excellent driving skills in both speed Style Club and my “all white range” (if you ever decide please tell Nicole I miss her. With Leila Obeidat, I leave and agility. May you always get to drill and choir to get your license). To my fellow ex-cheer flyers Anna, the secret ingredient to the school’s chai tea. Finally, I on time, no matter when you wake up. You also hand down the presidency of the most magical club Grace & Julia, my love for the color pink. To Maddie, get Lizzie. And to Samantha Wampold, who and Snapchat that MIHS has ever seen to, my fellow my super natural beauty routine;) To Ella, my latex doesn’t even go here but also technically does? allergy & playlists. To Mariana, my Watershed birthday Potterhead, Caitlin Liang. : my secret spot in lot 8 at BC that will never be celebration. And to Mimi, my obsession for Ferncroft taken. I also leave you my sacred quesadilla Road. I, Tori Cook, of adventurous mind and chai tea recipe, delicious at all hours. I, Lucy Cleator, of spirited mind and lazy body, fueled body, do hereby bequeath the following: I, Natalie Chen, of scattered mind and short body, do hereby leave my spirit with Susanna Blohm. I trust to Callie Moll, I give you the spirit of 1000 snails. hereby give my undying passion for MIHS volleyball to you to carry on my islander spirit, never miss a Take pride in MI and make up for lost time. To Anna Perry, Renee White, and the rest of MI volleyball; sporting event, and of course, make MaryMargaret Matty Friedman, Jonah Hyman, and Joshyboo use it next year to stay strong. To Kate Francke, our proud. To Makena French, I am trusting you to take Chang, I give you good luck next year in your beloved hand shake thingy and any ounce of energy care of Jo next year, she will miss me. To Addie math classes. I know it will be hard without me, I ever had for football games. To Max Hense, Sandra Waterman, I leave all my good advice and old Lucy, and Megan. To Munasip Ertakus and Pederson, and the rest of the amazing journ staff, any books, love you forever. Finally, Walker Guerra Bailey McKim I give you both love to last you chippies that remain in the editor room. Also, to anyone and Carl Schmid I leave you nothing because you forever. And to Carl Schmid, I wish you all the in the class of 2021 who writes a Senior Will next year, did not appreciate me enough. XO! best. Make me and Olivia Cartwright proud! LIMIT THE WORD COUNT. MIHS Clarinet Section, keep your spirit going and make band fun. I hope next year the section leaders keep you on your toes and take you to fun section bondings. Also shoutout to Brenna C for being one of the coolest juniors, you made track worth the laps <3. Dyani Aguila

THE CLASS without a senior mural

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

I, Liam Cotter, of semi-stable mind and potatoI, Scarlett Counihan, of spirited mind and I, Dylan Davis, of zealous mind and quarantined morphing body, do hereby bequeath the following: coffee filled body, hereby bestow all of my body, do hereby bequeath the following; to A-Squad, To the loud gamer bois/alternate group, Chaz’s islander gear and crazy spirit to Hannah the quest for trogga, I know you boys will bring it home weighted dice. To the lunch ladies, my gratitude Tiscornia. May you spend every waking moment next year, and to Sam Engleman, nothing, as you will for not patting me down when I get in line with going to different sporting events and singing be graduating alongside me, may your senior legacy my friends and don’t buy anything. To those in the the island pride song. I hand down the GREAT last forever. halls who have heard me laugh, some earplugs. responsibility of taking care of James (and To Mr. Robertson, my apologies for the events Addie) to Emily Yang, Makena French, and I, Jasper Geer, of cluttered mind and acceptable that transpired on the school walkout. To those Avery Condor. Can’t wait to see you FSU next body, do hereby bequeath the following to my still reading, my concern for not having anything year! To Addie Waterman, I am leaving you my underclassmen brethren. To the surviving members better to do with your time. To future AP Physics most precious possessions, may you wear them of Team Nut (and Charles if he comes back), I give students, ask about banjos and sandwiches to every game, every practice, every event, with the Nut Baton, in the hopes that its sleek red and (you’re welcome). To whoever still makes us read pride. To Macy Poll, please continue the Poll yellow form will compel you to dominate JV Kingco. Shakespeare, how doth thou thinkith we bring thy Tik Tok dynasty, MIHS would be lost without it. To Nick Weiss I give my workout schedule, and story to where we hence came. To those who want Finally, I hand down the presidency of the most wish you the best of luck with your gains. And finally to keep in touch, my Instagram (@liam.laughs7). magical club and Snapchat that MIHS has ever to Eliot Geer I give good vibes and a closet full of And finally, to those who made a new kid feel seen to, my fellow Potterhead, Caitlin Liang. hand-me-downs. welcomed, my thanks. I, Marissa Garrido, of wacky mind and fatigued body, do hereby bequeath Science Club to Kevin Bai, Ryan Hsu, and I, Bryce Fitzwilson, being of enlightened I, Mari Hanan, of hyperactive mind and wild Stella Prophater. Please use your exceptional talents to come mind and dehydrated body, bestow on body, do hereby bequeath the following of the up with creative and pleasant team names. Will Kendrick the magnificent honor of tradition of going to el Tapatio one Saturday overthinking literally everything. To my brother a month to Caitlin Liang, all of my glitter to Mr. I, Kate Hamilton, of restless Laughary, my loud shriek and love for MIHS to I, Melissa Haist, leave the Brett, I grant you the full and unrestricted mind and quarantined photo collage board I made power to rise up from Audrey Nordstrom, I leave my spirit to Camden body, do hereby bequeath Geirke, lastly my crackhead energy goes to in the Drama room to London the ashes and take your the following: the Return of Brunelle and Kendall Baebler. rightful place as being better than you dare Mrs. Schwartzberg, do with it well. the Swive shirt; to Brooke Please change out or add to imagine. Final thoughts before I embark on Comstock, the powers of photos at your own leisure, and the unknown, “He is most powerful who has I, Alli Hixson, hereby bequeath many “She” to Kayla and Kyra, continue to pass it down as the power over himself.” - Seneca more spontaneous adventures, artistic the VP banana suit; to Joyce years come and go. Love you endeavors, jam sessions, QFC snack Zhang, a real pair of shoes; both so incredibly much <3 I, Ellie Gottesman, of scattered mind runs, and long jogs to Groverland to my to Noah, goggle marks and and Golgi body, do hereby bequeath beloved sister and partner-in-crime, Ava cap lines; to the Swivers I, Cooper Hand, Captain of the following: to Gabe Gottesman, Hixson. I also leave Bucky--our soon to be Bandaids to my water polo Mercer Island High School's my parking spot in the garage and a 8th grade brother--in your charge. Take gals prestigious sailing team, pass on closet full of old schoolwork…happy good care of him, and take good care of the torch to future seniors, Jonny digging! Love you always. To Sophie our beloved Buddy. I, Nicole Hibi, of forgetful mind and Zimmer and Will Rogers, as it is Gottesman, my stylish badminton short body, do hereby bequeath the essential to keep this the team t-shirts that you’ve been dying to get following: old pom poms to Lindsey alive and well. With all my trust I your hands on. To Saylor Graham, I, Annika Jorgenson, of sarcastic Whelan, my limited knowledge of grant you the sailing team. I leave you in charge of Gabe. To mind and pale body, do hereby Mock Trial to Bill Wang, and a new Best regards, Ethan Preston, Annika Bhananker, and bequeath the following: To Isabel copy of MoTS:7 to Parlan. Cooper Hand all my other journalism babies, I leave Angel the maroon flute, keep the you the paper — make Annie, Isabel section spirit going. To my MIGWP and me proud. To the badminton team, I, Laine Hooper, of overthinking mind and 5’3 and 3/4” body do hereby gals I leave you the mountain of I leave you my favorite neon birdie. bequeath the following: To Grace Lenington I leave all my chem tik toks and remaining car wash tickets and the Expecting a state title next season! I my ability to be proud of a 78% error on a lab. To Lucas Peng, I gift my MI cap two deck coats I still have, may hope you all enjoy your remaining collection. Feel free to add to it. To the Juniors of MIGWP, the Nielsen gogg and you find a goalie and finally beat time at MIHS — it goes by faster than tat collection is now yours, use them wisely. Give yourselves a season your 2020 Newport at state! you think! captains would be proud of! <3

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

I, Ashley Joseph, of soccer-mom mind and spicy body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Jakob John-Lewis the pettiness from when I gave $50 in quarters to Kelly for the parking ticket, to Ava Motroni, Ally Lavin, Rachel Ressmeyer, and Kate Bryan the future of MIGGS, to Lauren Nguyen and Olivia Ubaldi all my Islander spirit, to Kyra Derato and Aina Maru I leave the stress and responsibilities of Mercer Island Florist (you’re welcome), to all of my children I drove everywhere I shall send a bill for the gas money spent, and lastly, I leave Kristin Smoots all my love for MIDT. Enjoy the rest of your high school career— it goes by fast. SKO MERCER! I, Jaden Krauser, of spirited mind and very very small body, do hereby bequeath the following: to lil huddy my $5 bill as you have won the bet yet again, to Hunter Evans my snowmen underwear as you are one of the coolest dudes I know, and lastly to Ally Lavin my elephant mug as you will need water with your muffins next year.

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org I, Meghana Kakubal, of semi-sound mind and petite body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Kevin Wang, Debate Club...good luck. To Eden Voss, Jared Marcus, Audrey Sadlier, Sophie Prock, and Andrew Howison, the finest radio station in town--may you try to stay on task during leadership meetings and finally get a booster club. To Paul Noone, the energy to stay attentive at board meeting budget reports. And to the 2020-21 Drum Majors: love, support, a closet that we've unsuccessfully tried to keep clean, struggles with gauntlets, and newfound confidence in your 8 to 5--lead the band with pride, smiles, and thoughtfulness.

I, Ethan Krebs, of Yankee mind and lanky body, do hereby bequeath the following to Chloe Krebs: my trusty TI-nspire for inspiration, an immense to-do-list for innovation, and a blank notebook for your integrity and ingenuity. I, Thomas Lee, of insouciant mind and swinging body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Cole Warnick, I leave behind the authority to summon the G at anytime. To Nevin Wong, an alarm clock. May this gift one day bring peace to your chaotic sleep schedule and incessant somnolence.

I, Boaz Malakoff, of tangible mind and body, do bequeath the following: to Seattle Achim, I grant you the future of USY. I, Mattie Lee, of sober mind and caffeinated body, do Jump-start Kadima, and win Chapter of the Year! To next year’s hereby bequeath the following: to Molly Seneker, a Achim President: A packet of famous Amos cookies. To Alto lifetime supply of Ruffles (to share with a new buddy of Juniors, I hereby make you next year’s Alto leadership team. course). To Nick Weiss, ice cream, coffee and my college Keep building spirit, friendship, and community, and win the best prep folder. To Alex Longwith and Kate Francke, the marchers award. Just remember, I will always have your back. courage to face all the haunted houses in the world. To To Baltos, I grant you my immense pile of band swag. I was Avery, Sofie, and ABG, the team TikTok. Make us famous. so impressed with you during Marching Band this year: Our To Kaisa Olson, all my clothes. Gregory, Bill, and Izzy success at the Seahawks game was a testament to your hard Roe, please continue the chaotic energy in band without work. You will do amazing things in Band. Good luck! me. To Garrett Lee, good luck on your own. I, Jai Maheshwari, of dedication and determination, do hereby bequeath the following: To my MicroEcon buddies Walker Guerra and Paul Noone, keep the unified club strong and safe. To Claire Chatalas, keep that Islander Spirit high for everyone and don't let it fall apart - I'm counting on you. To Mr. Hampsch, Kindness helps positivity, positivity helps kindness. Go 'Stangs Baby!

I, Tara Manhas, of my indecisive mind and brown body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Niteeka, I give you the senior year I never had. please go crazy in my honor; to Olivia, I leave you my spot in the drill formations so you can shine in front of the upperclassmen (boys); to Munasip, I give another 1st place at DECA so you can go to ICDC; to Gian Roque, I give you Biotech Bhaddie status; to Mira, I leave you the responsibility to drive yourself home after school; to Girls Varsity Tennis, I give you the KingCo and State title that we would have sealed this year. I would give you 2 boxes of Einstein bagels, but I ate them all; to Ajay & Jaya, I leave you my Honda CRV to attempt to park on the strip after 7:30am without my parking spot. I, Anouk Orillon, of curious mind and thrifted clothes, I, Josh Negrin, of wise mind and aged body, do hereby do hereby bequeath the bequeath the following to Elliot Richardson...the mercer 5th period hangout room to island carpool to practice, the role of oldest member of Bailey Rosengren and Peter Blond Squad, and finally the front seat of my car. Empey.

I, Adam Kipust, of an early bedtime, do hereby bequeath the following: to Camdon Gierke and Cruz Cervantes, all the riches located at 46.52249, -121.49312. To Avery Conder, my excellent ceramics skills. And to Sam Shroff, my deep conceptional understanding of the Spanish language. I, Samuel Jacob Kresch, ruler of the Club devoted to the study of Quantum Physics, do hereby bequeath my title as "President of the Quantum Physics Club" unto Annika Vanderspek. She shall continue my legacy of not really having meetings and not being sure if the club even exists, however, will hold the power to put on her resume that is to be submitted to the Board of Colleges. I, Andrew Lustig, of bored mind and quarantined body, do hereby bequeath the following: my time at MI was colored by conflict, friendship, learning, failing, succeeding, and everything in between. Although there were times that I didn’t particularly like my classes, or felt left out of some get together, there were also times where I was learning exactly what I wanted to learn, and was surrounded by all of my friends. I’ve learned in my 4 years that getting through high school was much akin to walking on coals: a great accomplishment waits for you at the end of it, but if you don’t keep moving, and learning, and growing, you’ll probably get burned. Although there were those bad times to accompany the good, I wouldn’t trade my high school experience for anything in the world.

Graphic by Alli Hixson

THE CLASS with online graduation

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

I, Sydnee Martin, of open mind and leggy body, do hereby bequeath the following, to Nina Robinson and Alex Weil, for the gift of fun crewpools, GoGo Squeezes , and free speed. I want the both of you to go into every race and erg test with the strong confidence that both of you possess, and when you row down the Montlake Cut, take a Power 10 for me. I hope you win many medals, and savor the next 3 years. And to Saphia Obeidat, I bequeath you many boba teas, Tik Tok fame, and Chick Fil'a nuggets. I know that senior year will be your year, and that you will do as much as you can but I'll miss our late night drives with Ani, but we'll talk as much as we can. I hope all of you enjoy the remaining years at MIHS, and carry on the traditions my class leaves behind. I, Ellie Nomicos, of bubbly mind and spirited body, do hereby bequeath the following: all of my glitter and spirit to Maddy Pfieffer. Caitlin Liang, I give you my purple sunglasses, for summer adventures. To Katie Williamson, I trust you with our SWIVE senior night tradition, continue the legacy. I give my 8 am Saturday shifts at Sano to Audrey Nordstrom, time to rally sister. To Noah Perlman, I leave you with my calculator, for any problems that come your way. Finally, to Emma and Molly Brodsky, I give you my Maroon Lotus powers, cherish the spirit and only approve posts with at least 10 emojis. I, Liat Perlman, of insane mind and plant filled body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Mimi Hartman, my captain whistle, may you one day throw it into the bleachers. To the 2020-2021 drill team, you have all my love and support, along with my ability to wake up and come to practice on time. To my brother Noah, you get my car and my drill fleece; lucky duck. To Celia Steinhauer, you get the ability to spend your senior year having fun and with slightly less studying. Lastly to Niteeka and Mikayla, you get the box of Oreos I left in the DECA closet.

I, Megan McArthur, of erratic mind and dipsomaniacal body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Nikki McArthur, I bequeath my 2001 Subaru Forester, Ice Dragon. May you treat her with the love and respect she deserves. To Luca Palermo, I grant one singular bitcoin. To Bailey McKim, Hunter Evans, Sophia Morelli, Casey Amico, Alexanne Dumont, and all my other XC/Track children, I disclose the location in Elis Pond in which I hide from coaches. To Brett Fitzwilson, I leave you a McChicken in hopes that you will stop ordering sickly amounts of uber eats. To my Maddie Dodds, I bequeath my spirit box and spray bottle. To Max Vacca and Eliad Tucker, I leave you infinite amounts of peppermint hot chocolate. To the rest of MI, cherish your senior year while it lasts. GO MI! I, Michael Ojeda, of voluptuous body and GFUEL driven mind, do hereby bequeath the title of Hybrid to Tommy Burke and Cole Drayton. May you continue to keep the legacy of Competition Tuesday alive. Don't let Diesel join. To Anthony Coluccio, I give you the ownership of Kylo Gaming. Lastly, to Derek Osman, I leave you my car; continue to roll down the windows after practice to not harm your delicate skin.

I, Grace Olsen, of scoliosedd mind and yerba mated body, do hereby bequeath the following to Katie Williamson, my Starbucks stars, only to be used at the north end drive thru. To Annie Headrick, I leave you with my shaky voice. May all of your yo babies end with a voice crack. And finally, to Brooke Comstock, Soha Mehta, and Annabelle Gersch, the Star Spangled Banner.

I, Helen Macfleece Olson, sister of KaisaKidSister hereby bequeath KaisaHairball with the following: the blue socks that somehow always end up on your feet, my slim collection of spirit gear, my mad pogo-sticking capabilities, the maintenance of Orange-Bob and Orange-O’s graves, my Cedric the Sorcerer hair cutting skills, my bussing adventures, mushed up double cheese brains and the big whammy. To Maija Brandt, my ability to win Just Dance (may you combine my skills and your skills to utterly DESTROY Kaisa), my baking expertise so that you can continue making that delicious cake without burning the marshmallows, my origami folding talent to make starry foldy thingies, and a singular stunted carrot from my pathetic deck top garden for the purpose of snaccing. And finally, to Ellie Gelsey, my BC lunch talks with Anna and Rachel, and all the free food in the world (especially boba and *vegan vanilla* ice cream).

I, Amelia (Queen Meals) Orth, of sassy mind and tie dye body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Lauren, I give you Pam. Don’t turn up the bass and vacuum her frequently! To Maddie Dodds, my mid senior year crisis of Rose Quarantina, may he forever swim happily in your possession. I also give you my watchful eye over Lauren. To my babies: Anna, Grace, and Julia, I leave you unlimited trash bags and pink I, Mark Pearson, of sound mind and bearded body, do hereby feather boas. Audrey Nordstrom, I give bequeath my radio show and PlayStation account to my loyal you Privett and all the snacks in the and fearless brother Andrew Pearson. May the forces of Sonic vending machines. Last but not least, the Hedgehog by upon you. To Marko Marceta, I leave to anyone reading this, exactly $5.45 for Boba from the "good spot". You deserve I give you my endless love for it and a joy ride. To Kevin Wang, I leave all my Ben Shapiro country music and Watershed. books. I know you of all people will thoroughly enjoy them.

I, Flora Mehdi, of eccentric mind and exotic body, do hereby bequeath all of my Spanish skills to Casey, Varuzhan, and the other juniors in Spanish 201 this year... keep Profe company next year when I'm gone :), to Carys and Mariana all my love, and lastly my Mercer Island spirit to Alena McDonald !!! <3 If there is one thing I want others to take away from my experience as a senior... This year just scratched the surface to finding and accepting who I am. It taught me lessons about who and what true friendship can look like. Most of all, it took me on a path of growth, and I wish that opportunity onto anyone who gets the chance.

Maya Panida

I, Emma Poll, of moody mind and spirited body, do herby bequeath the following: Sophie Gottesman-all of my spirit, love and Macy (please take care of her and make sure she’s not too crazy). Ally Lavin, Mikayla Geisner and Sydney Samuels- loving and hating bbyo at the same time but continuing to go (save me some spooey for when I come home). Mitch Ashberg- my crackhead energy. Audrey Nordstrom and Anna Bolger- keep c team basketball spirit alive. Grace Myklebust, Susanna Blohm,and Ryan Bebe- I give you my wonderful tik tok dance skills.

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

I, Annie Poole, of clumsy body and Empire State of mind, do hereby bequeath the following: To Kate Francke and Emily Yang, I leave you Gender Equality Club and all the GECkos you can find. Please don't let anyone tell you that feminism isn't cool. It is. To Annika and Ethan, and the rest of my journalism babies – take good care of the paper and Twomb. Always have the courage to tell the story no one is telling. To Eden Voss, I leave you what’s left of my closet – may you continue my monochromatic looks and tradition of cropping almost every thrifted t-shirt. To Evan Humphrey, I give you permission to do Shavasana during any class. Namaste! And to Gracie Galvin, I pass down the Poole sister’s love for the Galvin sibs. I, Liucija Raisys, of sarcastic mind and long-limbed body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Vaiva Raisys, I leave you Mandy, keep her alive, please. To Niteeka Narayan and Jessica Zhang, keep the student store clean. To Katie Williamson, I leave you the honorable title of swive mom, make me proud next year. And to Molly Brodsky, everything I own and all of my love, I'll miss you most!

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org I, Cayla Prophater, of republican mind and swimmer body bequeath my pom-poms and goggles to the one and only Stella Prophater, my car to Nora Prophater, and my Spotify playlists to Charlie Prophater. Katie Williamson, I grant you my bond with Chincheekwa. Brooke Comstock and Soha, you are now in charge of Stella. Grace, Anna, Julia, and Carly I grant you full control over stunts, enjoy your senior year it will go by quicker than you think.

I, Lily Ricci, of stressed mind and tired body, do hereby bequeath the Softball team to Michelle Lyon, I know you will continue to keep the sport hilarious and fun. To Lucas Peng, I leave you some motivation to not play Bloons Tower Defense for the entirety of a class period, do what you will with it. I, Taylor Richards, of spastic mind and hot pink body, do hereby bequeath the following.... To Carver Richards I give the Jeep that floods with rain and all of my physics notebooks. To Carter Crosetto I give my love and guidance to the next three years. And finally to Niteeka and Paul I give you my precious DECA chapter and all care of Shannon Tapp. I, Elyse Rice, of intuitive mind and impatient I, Pearl Rincon, gift to Annie Hochberg my passion for bubble tea, dogs, and noodles. body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Michelle Travis, my MIDT heart, beloved drill whistle, and my inability to count I, Ben Roe, of lazy body and even lazier mind, do hereby when teaching... make me proud. To Brielle bequeath the following: to Wesley Ho, my strength so you Gradek, Sam Sulla , and Ava Chatalas, can one day throw over 40 ft. To Cameron Longwith, my spice early mornings and the ability to stroll into tolerance so you can eat buffalo wings. To Devin Jett Mai, my practice at 6:29... may you never be late to car so you have a way of getting home. To Armaan Azeem and practice and never forget to pick up your Peter Empey, bowling balls. To Jake Chansky and Ryan Huang, my carpool. To Carter Crosetto, all my spirit-gear blank calculus packets. To Samuel Shroff, my and the Rice family legacy... I love you buddy. Graphic by Alli Hixson leadership skills so one day you can become ASB President. To Ally Lavin, my navy heart and soul. To Noah To Munasip Ertakus, an unlimited supply of Dasani water. To Isabella Roe... Hendelman, my love for leadership... I believe in you! To the next ASB Secretary, my glorious I, Polly the Mighty, of multitasking mind and little body, do hereby fun fact list, adorable overalls, and passion bequeath the following: To Sabrina Chun, Sofia Morelli, and Jaya Krauser, my for morning announcements. You do not competitive nature, may it bring you many PRs to come; to Joyce, my xuemei, know what you have until it’s gone, treasure I give you my entire xc soul, I know you will make everyone proud; I turn everything that you have! over the wellbeing of SAFE Club into the hands of Hunter Evans and Nima

I, Sophia Ristuben, of procrastinating mind and sleep deprived body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Anantika Mannby, any ounce of sanity I have left; to Ally Lavin and Izzy McGaughy, a watch so you can always be on time to get in the pool; to William Spencer, the sectional link, if you dare to use it; Taherzadeh, best of luck in growing the club to over 10 members; to Eden to Wesley Ho, nothing because Voss, the title of the shortest player on the team, don't underestimate the power I, Simon Toribio, of sending, pass on the you already have it all; and to Bill you have; and lastly, to the entire glax team, the capability to be a machine torch to the young senders. Wang, way too many band shirts and win a second state title next season. sorry. I, Hannah Rizika, of dazed mind and big eyed body, do hereby bequeath the I, robotics bombshell, officially pass down my talents to the lovely following: to Sadie Rizika, I leave dads Subi along with my sorta dangerous and alluring Norah Evans. Evan Wallin driving, confidence, smarts, mindfulness and wisdom. To Abby Orndorff, Sadie is now yours. To Bella Hartman I leave you the spot as best MI coxswain at Baker, I, Lizzie St. Mary, of limited mind and go baker!! Thank you Mercer Island! soul, do hereby bequeath Hunter Evans the I, Oliver Schaaf, of chlorine-filled lungs and coffee-driven body, do hereby bequeath the following: clay throwing wheel #8 in Ms. following: to John Novak, the non-club swimmer tradition of participating at State - the 100 fly is all Torrey’s classroom for good luck with making yours to take. To Katie Peterson, a pair of car keys so hopefully one day you can drive yourself to clay bowls and getting through senior year school. To Collin Ralston, lots of Band-Aids in case Indiana Jones comes back to town and healing with no more than 30 absences a semester for is needed. To Max Vacca, leadership and hope of an amazing water polo season. a single class.

THE CLASS OF leaders and pioneers

Senior wills | JUNE 2020

I, Alli Shoop, of mischievous mind and tan-lined body do hereby bequeath the following: to David Pickles, I leave the responsibility of holding down the fort on West Ridge Rd. I’m going to miss you the most. To Claire Chatalas and Madeline Dodds, I leave Ashley and the Priv Van. Try to do your homework, and do not be late more than twice a week. To Scott Pirak, my keys to the station, my newscast slots, and the responsibility of keeping headphones off the floor. To Katie Williamson, I leave all the maroon and white clothing you can find in the Shoop house, as well as a sequin surprise you will get soon enough. ROLL SNAILS! I, Katie Stoops, of impulsive mind and soft body do hereby bequeath the following: to Jessie Starnes, my spirit shoes as passed on to me by the strong and spirited band women of the past. To Connor Pettigrew, I leave the senior section of the lunchroom with my and Polly’s ghost haunting you. To Maija Brandt, I leave literally all of my clothing (come pick it up). To Rian Sherper and Eden Voss, I leave the essence of short girls playing lacrosse. And to Alex Longwith, I leave you Tommy’s hidden personality. Enjoy. I, Hailey Vandenbosch, of concussed mind and 5’1” body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Niteeka Narayan, Dave’s Pickleball Trophy. To Ellie Oordt, my music playlist, may you continue to criticize it from 2,500 miles away. To Cade Veljovich and Cruz Cervantes, 2 gallons of sunscreen for TJ 2021. To Molly Seneker, my best wishes in finding a new snare drummer for your band. To Grace Lenington, www.thefactsite.com, please continue to bestow our wisdom upon boys’ Swive. To Annie Headrick, my dorm room address so that you can send me all of your baked treats. To Adie Way, my JB t-shirt. To Jakson Winn, my unending love. I, Luke Wenzel, of goofy mind and tall body, do hereby bequeath the following to Kaden Wu; my starting spot and all the gloves I gave you! To the handler twins, I give you the ability to take test for each other and switch classes while the teachers are still getting to know you. To Caitlin Liang, I give you the ability to breath under stressful conditions; take care! I, Nate Wenzel, owner of the unstoppable post moves and great physicality in the post, do hereby bequeath the following physical strength to David Pickles, so he can dominate the middle next year! Luke and I will be watching (as well as Jeff Wenzel to make sure you dominate the post).

I, Lila Shroff, of café-obsessed body and GPS-reliant mind, do hereby bequeath the following: To all my “radio groupies,” I leave you KMIH. Keep both the air-waves and the school full of positivity and change. Never underestimate the power of conversation and your own voices. To Kate and Eden, I leave my creativity and passion (although who are we kidding — you both probably have enough of it as is). Your kindness, spontaneity, affinities for adventure, and humility never fail to inspire me. And to Sam— by far the best brother out there—I leave you infinite Qdoba burritos & all my love. I wish I could be more like you <3

I, Nathan Sim will leave the spirit of the few rowing members on Mercer Island unto THE Georgia man himself Caden Gradek. May all of the pain, work, and glory crew demands of its' participants give you strength. Carry the torch of Pocock Rowing Center and excellence on Mercer Island. Rowing never dies. Go Pocock. I, Mia Thiagarajan, of strong mind and small body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Joe Zhang, I leave the role of concertmaster of the MIHS Orchestra as well as my support in all your artistic endeavors. I have immense faith in your creative talents and I know you will lead the orchestra with confidence! To Hide Shiotsu, I bestow infinite sectionals with a certain violinist, a worm-on-a-string, and a chance to win against me in Anagrams. Take care of the viola section like how you would take care of your real (not plastic) viola.

I, Siena Vetto, of beguiling mind and lazy body, do herby bequeath my multitudes of college sweatshirts and spirit gear (that i’m willing to part with) to Mimi Pietila (and Liv and Ally if they are lucky). I, Audrey Wen, of sleep-deprived mind and Starbucks refresher-fueled

I, Maya Virdell, of active mind and redbull fueled body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Casey Amico I award you my questionable driving capabilities, and my inspirational race/workout pep talks. To my twin, Alex Levin, I pass down my cross country sweatshirt, headband, and running playlist. To Munasip, I pass down my Harry Styles and One Direction CDs, enjoy and take good care of them. To Max and Sandra, I pass down our treasured Baja blast traditions, and my ability to navigate potholes. To my track prodigies Jaya Woerner and Susie Lepow, I pass down my track merch. Make me proud and win the 300m hurdles in my honor. GO MIXCTF! :')

I, Lucy Whitney, of loopy mind and bony body, do hereby bequeath the following: To Kate Francke, the mellophone section. Keep it krazy Kate. To Alex Longwith, every piece of maroon clothing I own, including all cropped and feminine shirts but excluding all sexytary garb.

body, do hereby bequeath the following: to Niteeka Narayan, every piece of maroon and white clothing I own. Wear it every Friday or else. To Nathan Wen, the keys to Bert and the trap house. Make me proud next year yung one. And to everyone, all of my love & Islander spirit. I better hear you belting out the fight song all the way from Santa Barbara. Go MI baby! I, Alex Wilson of MI spirit and bad spending habits, do hereby place my legacy on the last remaining Wilson relatives, Justin and Chloe Li. I leave you, Justin most of my MI gear because you desperately need it. Chloe, my MI spirit and expensive high school life style for everyday life until graduation.... spend up! To the both of my little cousins, I leave you guys, my 45 minutes a period, everyday bathroom breaks and a stress free senior year. I, Amanda Wion, bequeath the

I, Natalie Wilson, of forgetful mind and a naturally tan body, do hereby bequeath the following: to my swive gals, carry on the tradition of being the team's hype woman. Specifically, Annabelle Gersch I am giving that duty to you. To Katie Williamson, you must carry on our senior night swive tradition to the absolute fullest. To Celia Steinhauer, please skip as many swim sets as possible, to keep my spirit alive in the pool. And to my water polo gals, I give you my incredible singing voice to our long hours driving to the Curtis pool. You all must beat Curtis one day, and seize that state championship for me. #dreamon

following to the only the most deserving of islanders. Paul Noone: my DECA president sweatshirt & the clout that comes it; Katie Williamson: my black whistle, wear it with pride & intensity; Audrey Sadlier: the smile and waves I give during passing period, can’t think of a better person to continue to spread positivity <3 Lainie: well, I guess u get my closet of MI clothes AND the Wion name legacy, so you’re welcome; Josie Barber: my silver heelys, you’re already so cute and clumsy I just wanna see u try & navigate those *Lainie plz video*

10 SENIOR SHOUTOUTS | JUNE 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Boaz,

Even since preschool you have been one of the kindest souls I know. I am always inspired by the things you have to say in the classroom and I have always been envious of your character. You are patient, empathetic, thoughtful and compassionate. You are incredibly mature, wise and you always seem to do the right thing. While we aren’t as close as we were in preschool or at camp, I wanted you to know that I admire you and have always looked up to you. Thank you for teaching me great things, whether it be on the playground, in the Beit Am or in the classroom. Your greatness is not overlooked. Best,

Mohamad,

Thank you for always smiling! You are one of the most positive and genuine people I know. Seeing you at QFC always brightens my day. Keep on being awesome!

Anonymous Photo CourTESY Mohamad Bin zohor

Elyse Rice

Photo CourTESy Boaz Malakoff

Sophia S,

Sophia is one of the sweetest, kindest people I’ve ever met. She never hesitated to help me with my math homework, even though I was constantly asking for it. Although she may appear to be a quiet, shy person, Sophia is so incredibly smart, helpful and hardworking. She is always there to help others when they need it, and never thinks about asking for something in return. Congratulations on Dartmouth Sophia! If anyones deserves to go there, it’s you!

Math Genius

Photo CourTESy Sophia Scull

Manisha,

You deserve a shout out more than basically anyone else I know. Not necessarily for any individual act, but just for who you are on a day to day basis. You lift everyone up with your endless optimism and beaming smile, and I’ve never seen you act with anything but the most sincere kindness. You make everyone feel so welcome, no matter where they’re from, and you’re always the loudest person I know on spirit days. You go ham. MIHS will be a dimmer place without you there to brighten up the halls.

Photo CourTESy MANISHA MARU

Jack Swartz

THE COVID-19 CLASS

SENIOR SHOUTOUTS | JUNE 2020

Anouk,

Thank you for your support in everything I do. Your friendship has made my high school experience and I have no idea where I’d be without it. I am grateful for your infectious laughter, knowledge of internet culture, and superb fashion style. I cannot comprehend how many trends and memes I wouldn’t understand without you or what my closet would look like. I’m so happy I met you and I can’t wait to visit! I’m so excited to see where life will take this friendship. P.S. Bus buddy brigade forever.

Marissa Garrido

Photo CourTESY Marissa Garrido

Photo CourTESY THOMAS LEE

Steven,

Steve wouldn’t want me to write this shoutout for him. He’s not the kind to seek recognition, he may even actively shy away from it. But I don’t care, he is beyond worthy of all the recognition and love in the world. Steve is life. Steve is the reason I push myself to be the best I can everyday. Steve is wonderful in so many ways, it isn’t fair for the rest of us. Steve gets along with everybody. He is ever attentive to his friends. He enjoys late-night IHOP runs. Steve is the cornerstone of any friend group; everyone is at ease when he is near. Steve is an exceptional conversationalist. If you need someone to talk to, he’s your guy. Steve you are great and you are bright. I am eagerly looking forward to what you will accomplish in the future! With much adoration,

Hirachi Diamonds

Photo CourTESY Nate Cadicamo Photo CourTESY LILA SHROFF

Laine,

Sophia R,

There are literally no words to describe how amazing, kind and thoughtful you are. Being able to struggle through every class of junior year together is a memory I certainly won’t forget. So thanks for having a shared love of Schwartzberg and Willecke and a shared hatred of any and all math. You’re the best!!!!

Hannah Bartley

You have been such an incredible pillar in my life. You laugh with me when I need a laugh and let me cry when I need to cry. You have been there for me every step of the way. Thank you. Photo CourTESY HAnnah Bartley

Lila Shroff

12 CLASS ADVISER LETTER | JUNE 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Photo Courtesy MARI HANAN

My best,

Photo Courtesy CAYLA PROPHATER

It was during your sophomore year, under somewhat pressing circumstances, that I came to be your class adviser. Because of some miscommunication, you had gone all through freshman year without an adviser, and no one figured it out until later. Reflecting on your class, I cannot help but think about you in a wider context. The majority of you were in utero or newborns at the time of the 9/11 attacks, which brought new levels of national – and parental – anxiety. You were born at a time of unprecedented technological infiltration, with smartphones and social media as part of your childhood. You have grown up during a time of formidable conversations — socially, politically, educationally, scientifically, societally. At the risk of sounding speculative, I cannot help but think that all of these factors have had an impact on your experience and your development — an impact that we may not fully understand until later. As I write to you under these newly pressing COVID-19 circumstances, I have concluded that this has been the state of your class from the start. You have been there all along–weeding through so many voices, assembling your perspectives, operating in your own spheres–while a larger system works to figure you out, just a little later.

Photo Courtesy SOPHIA SCULL

2020

What your MIHS staff members did figure out in their four years with the Class of 2020 is sampled in the notes on the next page and with some common themes: they have been impressed by your growth and your resilience, they have witnessed your individual contributions, they have been challenged and delighted by your spirit; they have become empathizers in your second-semester losses, and they have become cheerleaders for your futures. We stand in appreciation for your time at the school and in recognition of this time you’ve been forced to be away. In this bizarre graduation year, there is the unanimous sentiment that the Class of 2020 is one to be remembered – perhaps in a way we have yet to understand. I guess we will leave that until later.

TO THE CLASS OF

Jane Stafford

English teacher & adviser for The Class of 2020

THE CLASS THAT DIDN't Have an adviser

Kati McConn

Staff REFLECTIONS | JUNE 2020 English teacher

Dear Class of 2020, You are very impressive in many ways. Your class has a lot of heart, which is only matched by your personalities. I never knew what would happen in class, what secrets you would spill or what international or personal crisis would be explored in class discussions. I never had so much fun, but also found myself telling many of you to stop doing things I used to tell my fifth graders to stop doing. Take that for what you will. Don't temper yourselves and keep caring about the world, yourselves, and each other. You all are good at that. Remember that tears are good, don't be afraid to let them fall. If you could avoid removing things affixed to buildings, though, I'm sure the world would appreciate it. Love you, McConn

Dr. Lori Grata

SPECIAL EDUCATION AT CREST

Madame Wiatr

FRENCH TEACHER

To the seniors, It is easy to focus on what you donâ€™t have, but if you value what you do have, you will see the beauty in the world. It take more energy to frown than it does to smile. I am proud to have known you all!

Dear Class of 2020, You are the zappy zoom boom bam of our school. You kept us on our toes and kept us more flexible than a yoga class. You grew up beautifully and are going to be SUCH leaders! Itâ€™s because you SAY IT LIKE IS, and are smart but not always compliant. Je vous aime!!!

Alex Perry

Vicki Puckett

PRincipal

Seniors, I cannot imagine how you are feeling right now, worried about the unknown future next year as you prepare for a new adventure while dealing with a whole new learning experience during this COVID-19 time of quarantine. Your Senior year is supposed to be about celebrations and saying goodbye to your friends as you move forward into the future. Please know we care for you and want to wish you well. You are strong and mighty! Go out with a BIG bang...because times like this call for it. You will be the Class who stood up to this virus and prevailed! Onward Islanders! We are so PROUD of you!

Jamie Robertson

History teacher

Class of 2020: I was warned before teaching you as seniors that you were different: that you were hellions, that you were unlike any class that had been through MIHS previously and that I had better buckle-up and get ready for a really rough ride. Those commentators were right: you are different. I have found you funny, engaging, empathetic (kind to one another), challenging (in a good way), concerned, direct and most of all full of character and characters. You have done and said things in class that I would not always expect of a group of young adults, and at times, I have been mightily tempted to join in with your antics or scold you for being incredibly immature. But from this stew of characters, I already have lots of great memories. I feared that our youth were becoming a monotonous morass of blandness and indifference. You have helped to soothe my fears. I am very sorry for your loss of the many rituals tied to the end of school. I know you must be very sad at the inability to make special memories from prom, parties and graduation. I challenge you to do two things now: write down and record your favorite memories and commit to staying in touch with your friends from MIHS. I know the good and bad of both. I have lost so many of my own memories of high school but I have been blessed by the continued friendship of good friends from whom need little encouragement to remind me of all my high school glories and failures. I will miss you and I feel my own loss at not being able to say "goodbye" to you in person and not being able to see you graduate.

Math Teacher

A parting message I have is, remember to save early with anything you can even if it's just $5 a month. It will grow to something big over time.

To see more messages to the class of 2020, visit mihsislander.org!

Responses from Sarah Abreu, Larry Bencivengo, Joe Bryant, Jamie Cooke, Gavin Cree, Christine Kenyon & PLP Staff, Jen McLellan, Daniela Melgar, Chris Twombley, Patty Weston and Kate Yoder.

Jeff Randolph

English and Psychology Teacher

I suppose I would want this senior class to know that they will be remembered. Other classes will have come and gone, but their class, the sacrifices they had to make, the strength and resilience that they showed through these trying times and the simple fact that we never got to say a proper goodbye...I will remember them.

Washington University of Washington

Samuel Attisha Ellie Bertram Bridger Bourke Amy Braman Anthony Brondello Chaz Carlson Olivia Cartwright Tori Cook Scarlett Counihan Josh Crumrine Dylan Davis Henry Do Auden Finch Christopher Fuchs Joey Gallagher Natalie Garrett Mari Hanan Nicole Hibi Finn Hilberts Michaela Isaacs Annika Jorgenson Ethan Krebs

Kalvin Lee Thomas Lee Tara Manhas Michael Mulligan Ichiro Nakata Anouk Orillon Isabella Pangallo Owen Pronovost Lilly Pruchno Peyton Rapo Ben Roe Jack Schreuder Jason Zhang

Western Washington University

Talia Podradchik

Gene Juarez Academy

Molly Brogan

University of Puget Sound

Bellevue College

Gonzaga University

Whitman College

Ethan Schwartz

Cole Crosetto Amelia Orth Polly Schaps Rory Shanks

Central Washington University

Bailey Fotheringill Alex Wilson

Seattle University

Joe Gormley

Highline College

Kathryn Orozco

Melissa Haist Jaden Mcconaughy Vincent Kwan Katie Stoops

Washington State University

Diego Lopez

Ada Developers Academy

New Saint Andrews College

Evan Wallin

Alli Hixson

Pierce College

Boise State University

Luke Wenzel Nate Wenzel

Owen Baebler Marco Faine Samantha Hackman Jill Jansen Ashley Joseph Izzi Mancuso Megan McArthur Michael Ojeda Mark Pearson Liuci Raisys Hannah Rizika Makenna Rojas Aja Seese Margot VanOrden Lillian Zaborski

Taylor Richards

Addi Arvish Molly Cartwright

Anika Jansen Matt Lambright

Alyssa Agoado Anika Iverson Amanda Weaver Carter Whipple Natalie Wilson

University of Southern California

Ellie Gottesman Jack Singh Grace Zhang

Scripps College Ella Thunen

Saint Mary’s College of California Hannah Bartley

Gracie Burke Jack Hixon Gabrielle Potts

Sarah Hobson Lauren Hunter Adam Kipust Amanda Wion

University of California, San Diego Michael Ivanov Karun Mokha

Stanford University Alex Patel Lila Shroff

2020

Paige Fisher

Andrew Kaelin

Pomona College

University of Colorado, Boulder

Sophia Ristuben Thomas Short

Luca Mtskhetadze Colm Nkposong Ethan Ralston Francesca Risco Jacob Swerland

Southern Methodist University Josh Miner

Colorado

Washington University in St. Louis

Caitlin Buri

Texas

Texas Christian University CC Ciobanu Julia Dierkes Katrina Dumler Cayla Prophater Alli Shoop

Claire Cheung Natalie Smith

Saint Louis University Kate Hamilton

Missouri

Athena Gibelli

Manisha Maru

Grap

Dartmouth College Jake Headrick Sophia Scull

Danny Scalzo

North carolina

Clemson University Emerey Sampson

Georgia

Flagler College Victor Gibelli

Louisiana State University Cooper Hand

Louisiana

Pennsylvania

Nathaniel Payson

Washington D.C. Purdue University Jack Harper Justin Skene Eli Yen

University of Indiana University Notre Dame Beatrice Lee Lily Ricci

Zach Muzio

Indiana

International

Hailey Vandenbosch

vermont New York Fordham University

Zoey Byers Caroline Tanzer

Cornell University Mattie Lee

Barnard The New School College Kiran D'Souza of Columbia University New York Annie Poole University Meghana Kakubal Jenny McMillan Arjun Piplani Lucy Whitney

Vassar College Emma Koves

Hofstra University

Emily Raissis

Columbia University Sarah Wang

Military Marine Corps

Canada

Emerson Fruehling Mattias Harney

McGill University Justin Jradi

Thank you for your service!

University of British Columbia, Okanagan

Alexander Kruus

University of British Columbia, vancouver Callum McCarthy

Tulane University Ethan Boyle Elyse Rice

Florida

New hampshire

American University

Maria Reyes

High Point University

xson

Middlebury College

Pennsylvania Villanova University State Claire Humphrey Will Wheeler University

Benjamin Flaherty Liat Perlman

Alli Hi

Josh Negrin

George Washington University

hic by

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Jaden Krauser Erica Yuk

Annika Schiller

Texas A&M Baylor University

Boaz Malakoff

Ellie Bailey Liam Cotter

Bentley University

Berklee College of Music

Bowdoin College

Colby College

Mira Tang

Ball State University

Savannah College of Art and Design Elena Briggs

South Carolina

Colorado College

Rina Li Tristan Moore

University of San Diego Grace Olsen

Dylan Hatt Olivia Wen

Martha Sprague

Amherst College

Aleksandra Kogalovski

Boston College

Kenyon College Maya Virdell

Destinations

Sam Kresch Flora Mehdi Audrey Wen

Jasper Geer

Maine

Wellesley College

Tufts University Smith College

Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Institute Laine Hooper of Music and Case Western Reserve University

Class of

Luna Chen Natalie Chen Mollie Parkinson Pearl Rincon Miles Shin

Ohio

Miami University

Arizona

ty dis

Loyola Marymount University

University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Santa Barbara

Har

Sydnee Martin

Chloe Anbarcioglu Quinn Casey Maya Groh Tyler Hill Jai Maheshwari Matthew Nimmo David Smoots Andrew Sugamele Lukas Varney

Lucy Cleator Jack Shoop Derek Snyder Rena Zhang

Shane Piha

a len by

Saddleback College

California Polytechnic State University

Santa Clara University

Isabel Funk Lauren Nakatsu

Loyola University of Chicago

Northeastern University

Marissa Garrido Eren Kodera Lucas Moore Ellie Nomicos Oliver Schaaf

Northwestern University

UTAH

phic

Ava Wampold

University of Michigan

Alex LaBrie

Illinois

University of Minnesota Derek Wong

Simon Toribio

Massachusetts

Western Michigan University

St. Olaf College Helen Olson

Gra

Occidental College

Joy Francke

Kiran Jacob Emma Poll Liam Rogan

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

minnesota

University of Arizona

California Chapman University

Lewis & Clark College

Michigan

Lizzie St. Mary

University of Utah University of Oregon

University of Wisconsin

Oregon University of Portland

Wisconsin

idaho

Clark College

Vanderbilt University Carter Burr

Belmont University Sophia Kirmer

TennESSEE

Gap Year

China

Kylie Mulligan Zitong Wang

New York University, Shanghai Andrew Lustig

England King’s College London Jack Swartz

Oh, the Places We Are Going!

Washington University of Washington

Kalvin Lee Thomas Lee Tara Manhas Michael Mulligan Ichiro Nakata Anouk Orillon Isabella Pangallo Owen Pronovost Lilly Pruchno Peyton Rapo Ben Roe Jack Schreuder Jason Zhang

Western Washington University

Talia Podradchik

Gene Juarez Academy

Molly Brogan

University of Puget Sound

Bellevue College

Gonzaga University

Whitman College

Ethan Schwartz

Cole Crosetto Amelia Orth Polly Schaps Rory Shanks

Central Washington University

Bailey Fotheringill Alex Wilson

Seattle University

Joe Gormley

Highline College

Kathryn Orozco

Melissa Haist Jaden Mcconaughy Vincent Kwan Katie Stoops

Washington State University

Diego Lopez

Ada Developers Academy

New Saint Andrews College

Evan Wallin

Alli Hixson

Pierce College

Boise State University

Luke Wenzel Nate Wenzel

Taylor Richards

Addi Arvish Molly Cartwright

Anika Jansen Matt Lambright

Alyssa Agoado Anika Iverson Amanda Weaver Carter Whipple Natalie Wilson

University of Southern California

Ellie Gottesman Jack Singh Grace Zhang

Scripps College Ella Thunen

Saint Mary’s College of California Hannah Bartley

Gracie Burke Jack Hixon Gabrielle Potts

Sarah Hobson Lauren Hunter Adam Kipust Amanda Wion

University of California, San Diego Michael Ivanov Karun Mokha

Stanford University Alex Patel Lila Shroff

2020

Paige Fisher

Andrew Kaelin

Pomona College

University of Colorado, Boulder

Sophia Ristuben Thomas Short

Luca Mtskhetadze Colm Nkposong Ethan Ralston Francesca Risco Jacob Swerland

Southern Methodist University Josh Miner

Colorado

Washington University in St. Louis

Caitlin Buri

Texas

Texas Christian University CC Ciobanu Julia Dierkes Katrina Dumler Cayla Prophater Alli Shoop

Claire Cheung Natalie Smith

Saint Louis University Kate Hamilton

Missouri

Athena Gibelli

Manisha Maru

Grap

Dartmouth College Jake Headrick Sophia Scull

Danny Scalzo

North carolina

Clemson University Emerey Sampson

Georgia

Flagler College Victor Gibelli

Louisiana State University Cooper Hand

Louisiana

Pennsylvania

Nathaniel Payson

Washington D.C. Purdue University Jack Harper Justin Skene Eli Yen

University of Indiana University Notre Dame Beatrice Lee Lily Ricci

Zach Muzio

Indiana

International

Hailey Vandenbosch

vermont New York Fordham University

Zoey Byers Caroline Tanzer

Cornell University Mattie Lee

Barnard The New School College Kiran D'Souza of Columbia University New York Annie Poole University Meghana Kakubal Jenny McMillan Arjun Piplani Lucy Whitney

Vassar College Emma Koves

Hofstra University

Emily Raissis

Columbia University Sarah Wang

Military Marine Corps

Canada

Emerson Fruehling Mattias Harney

McGill University Justin Jradi

Thank you for your service!

University of British Columbia, Okanagan

Alexander Kruus

University of British Columbia, vancouver Callum McCarthy

Tulane University Ethan Boyle Elyse Rice

Florida

New hampshire

American University

Maria Reyes

High Point University

xson

Middlebury College

Pennsylvania Villanova University State Claire Humphrey Will Wheeler University

Benjamin Flaherty Liat Perlman

Alli Hi

Josh Negrin

George Washington University

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University of Massachusetts Amherst

Jaden Krauser Erica Yuk

Annika Schiller

Texas A&M Baylor University

Boaz Malakoff

Ellie Bailey Liam Cotter

Bentley University

Berklee College of Music

Bowdoin College

Colby College

Mira Tang

Ball State University

Savannah College of Art and Design Elena Briggs

South Carolina

Colorado College

Rina Li Tristan Moore

University of San Diego Grace Olsen

Dylan Hatt Olivia Wen

Martha Sprague

Amherst College

Aleksandra Kogalovski

Boston College

Kenyon College Maya Virdell

Destinations

Sam Kresch Flora Mehdi Audrey Wen

Jasper Geer

Maine

Wellesley College

Tufts University Smith College

Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Institute Laine Hooper of Music and Case Western Reserve University

Class of

Luna Chen Natalie Chen Mollie Parkinson Pearl Rincon Miles Shin

Ohio

Miami University

Arizona

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Loyola Marymount University

University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Santa Barbara

Har

Sydnee Martin

Chloe Anbarcioglu Quinn Casey Maya Groh Tyler Hill Jai Maheshwari Matthew Nimmo David Smoots Andrew Sugamele Lukas Varney

Lucy Cleator Jack Shoop Derek Snyder Rena Zhang

Shane Piha

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Saddleback College

California Polytechnic State University

Santa Clara University

Isabel Funk Lauren Nakatsu

Loyola University of Chicago

Northeastern University

Marissa Garrido Eren Kodera Lucas Moore Ellie Nomicos Oliver Schaaf

Northwestern University

UTAH

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Ava Wampold

University of Michigan

Alex LaBrie

Illinois

University of Minnesota Derek Wong

Simon Toribio

Massachusetts

Western Michigan University

St. Olaf College Helen Olson

Gra

Occidental College

Joy Francke

Kiran Jacob Emma Poll Liam Rogan

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

minnesota

University of Arizona

California Chapman University

Lewis & Clark College

Michigan

Lizzie St. Mary

University of Utah University of Oregon

University of Wisconsin

Oregon University of Portland

Wisconsin

idaho

Clark College

Vanderbilt University Carter Burr

Belmont University Sophia Kirmer

TennESSEE

Gap Year

China

Kylie Mulligan Zitong Wang

New York University, Shanghai Andrew Lustig

England King’s College London Jack Swartz

Oh, the Places We Are Going!

16 senior reflections | june 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Mattie Lee Enjoy your time here. High school is such a unique experience. It is likely the last time in your life that you will see your peers for 7 to 8 hours a day. Unless you pursue college division athletics, it is the most competitive level that you will ever play your sport at. Unless you pursue music, it is the last time you will perform in a large ensemble. I know it can be hard and stressful and all you can think about is leaving or second semester senior year, but take it from the seniors who went through it all and lost it all at once. Don’t wait until second semester senior year to appreciate high school. Enjoy it now. Go to the assemblies, the sports events (the girl’s games too), the dances. Don’t take it for granted. Photo courtesy mattie lee

Joe Gormley

Photo courtesy michael ivanov

I’m a different person than freshman year Joe. These past four years have have shaped me into who I am today, the good and the bad. I’ve learned how to deal with stress and setbacks, but most importantly I know that going through trauma can only make you stronger, that during those times when you feel as if the whole world is crashing down on you there is always tomorrow. I’ve learned that life is a precious gift that all of us should cherish and protect. I’ve learned that everyone goes through tough times and that sometimes your best might not be good enough, but it happens to us all. I’ve learned that sad times don’t last forever and that it all gradually gets better. Most importantly, these past four years taught me one major thing: to never give up.

Michael Ivanov

Mercer Island is a small place. Don’t get the idea stuck in your head that you and your friend group are going to go places. Take this opportunity to talk to as many people, try as many things, and make as many connections as possible, because when high school is over, you basically won’t see any of these people again. This is the training ground before real life. Use it to your advantage.

Photo courtesy joe gormley

senior reflections | june 2020

THE class that still calls it bridges

Natalie Wilson When I first walked through the doors of MIHS, I was a close-minded individual who really only focused on herself. Thankfully, MIHS has completely diversified my thinking and who I have become. I learned the importance of group-think and collaboration, which has truly helped me in numerous ways. Photo courtesy maria reyes

Photo courtesy natalie wilson

Maria Reyes I will miss my senior year first period routine. It starts with me leaving my house at promptly 7:55 a.m. Living near the high school has its perks. Then I stroll in through the band wing doors at 8:01 a.m. and pass through the 500 hall nonchalantly as others hurriedly arrive at their classes. I stop by Ms. Melgarâ€™s office for our daily morning chat. We discuss college, drama (on and off stage) and all things regarding life. She has been such a mentor for me for the past 2 years and I donâ€™t know what I will do without her daily guidance. Next stop is for my daily dose of caffeine. My coffee addiction is synonymous with my high school experience. Lastly, we come to two diverging roads. Depending on my productivity from the night before I do one of two things. Either go to the library and finish up some last minute homework or talk to Valerie Perine. Val has been another one of my allies through my high school career. I met her when I was a sophomore and needed help regarding leadership duties. From that point on, we clicked, and while not in leadership anymore, I always check in with her on a weekly basis. While simple, my first period routine, I feel, captures my time at MI. Developing intimate relationships, working hard behind the scenes and everything fueled by a coffee addiction.

Photo courtesy molly cartwright

Molly Cartwright

Some advice I have for future Mercer Island students is know that it is ok to ask for help. Whether that is help from friends or teachers, they are always there for you. It is ok to be overwhelmed with everything about school; SAT or ACT testing, assessments, AP exams. You will get through it. Make sure you take some personal time whenever you can. Take a break from school work, a break from friends and just be with yourself and figure out who you are and who you want to be.

senior reflections | june 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Ellie Bailey

My four years of high school were composed of a myriad of embarrassments, triumphs and frustrations. Through all the highs and lows, I learned how to overcome fears, deal with disappointments and celebrate successes. I learned how to struggle and persevere, how to let go of perfectionism and embrace reality. I am no longer the awkward, timid freshman who refused to speak in class, but the loud, confident student who is not afraid to voice her opinion. Reflecting on my high school experience, it is impossible to overlook my failures and shortcomings, yet I cannot deny that I am proud of who I have become.

Photo courtesy ellie bailey

Addison Arvish

Photo courtesy oliver schaaf

Oliver Schaaf Classes are going to be hard in high school. There might be times when you lose sight of why you are working so hard, but try to have a goal for why you are working so hard. It doesn’t necessarily have to be attending a top college like many think, but having a reason for working hard helps motivate you throughout your four years, especially during junior year when APs and college applications start to pile on top of you.

My junior year, my dad was diagnosed with life-threatening cancer. My whole world seemed to fall apart, and my mental state suffered greatly. Depression clouded my mind constantly. I gave a heads up to my teachers and my mom sent an email to them, just saying our family situation and that I was going through a lot and if I wasn’t giving my full attention in class that was why. My block teachers, Ms. Mattocks and Ms. Stafford, wrote me a little card. It was short and sweet but made me tear up. I still have the card. Don’t feel pressured to sign up for a ton of honors or AP classes. I got into my dream school with only 2 AP classes my senior year. Also, sleep is the most important thing. A lot of teachers will be understanding if you let them know ahead of time that you have a busy week. It never hurts to ask for an extension. Don’t pull all nighters all the time, it isn’t healthy.

for more reflections from the senior class visit our website, mihsislander.org Photo courtesy addi arvish

senior reflections | june 2020

THE “islander way” class

Aleksandra Kogalovski

Alex Patel Out of all things, I will miss my teachers. I am grateful for the fact that every day, I have been able to learn something new from people so passionate about teaching. Their enthusiasm in the classroom is contagious. I am grateful for the sacrifices made by my teachers, who take precious time out of their day to stay after class and talk to me about a world event, formula or novel. To have people in my life so dedicated to my own success is a blessing. What is truly special about my teachers at MIHS, however, is their passion for developing personal relationships with students. They are always eager to hear about our successes, and are always willing to give advice. They are intent on making us into citizens, with an understanding of life beyond the classroom. They are not afraid to challenge viewpoints or make us think beyond traditional constraints. My teachers defined my experience at MIHS, but their wisdom will continue to help shape my future. They will be dearly missed.

Make more friends, take more chances, sleep at least 8 hours a night and try new things for the hell of it. Rising seniors, don’t be afraid of eventually having to say goodbye. Yes, graduation is coming, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try building new relationships or start cutting ties. Make the most of your final year with the people you care about! Goodbyes don’t have to be forever if you don’t want them to be. Photo courtesy aleksandra kogalovski

PHOTO

Photo courtesy natalie smith

Natalie Smith Walking into the high school on the first day of senior year and running up to my best friends to give them a hug, so excited that our time had finally come, that was a defining moment. Even though we most likely won’t get the chance to walk across a stage or dance at prom under the lights, I am grateful for every day leading up to the day that we didn’t know would be our last day of high school. That first day was the beginning, it was defining, when we didn’t know the year would be cut short.

PHOTO

Photo courtesy Alex Patel

20 Journalism Senior Goodbyes | JUNE 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org Journalism Senior Goodbyes

Annie Poole Print Editor-in-chief, front & spread editor

Ellie Gottesman Online Editor-in-Chief, Front & Spread Editor

Four years ago, I walked into journalism class a timid, inarticulate freshman. Today, I leave MIHS a strong, confident young adult ready to embrace her future. Much of that change has to do with what happened within the walls of Room 501C. I want to thank Mr. Twombley for being one of my role models, giving me tough love when I needed it and supporting me unconditionally. I grew as a writer and journalist and, more importantly, as a person under his guidance. I want to thank my fellow editors and staff – both past and current – for giving me a place to call home at MIHS. I will take our shared experiences and inside humor with me long after I leave high school. You are my second family. Finally, I want to thank the future editors and staff for continuing to dedicate blood, sweat and tears to this publication. I know that I am leaving the paper in good hands, and I cannot wait to watch it continue to grow and serve as an important voice for our student body. Although bittersweet, this goodbye leaves me feeling grateful and excited about the future. I am so proud of what I’m leaving behind and to whom our beloved MIHS Islander is entrusted. Jive jive journ, always.

Natalie Chen A&E Editor

My sister has given me lots of advice. Sometimes I take it and sometimes I don’t. I’m so glad I listened to her and signed up for Journalism my sophomore year. Beyond her anecdotal experience and praise of Twombley, I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. And I’m not quite sure if I can fully express the importance of what I got myself into. But I’ll try anyway. Journalism was the first place I found in high school where it felt like my voice mattered. Journalism gave me a platform to use my words as a way to create change. Journalism made me courageous. I spent most of my time in journalism hidden in the 500 hall in a room that is nothing more than a closet. Seriously, there are no windows and we can hear you flush in the bathroom. But everytime I stepped into that room, I felt at home. The talented, creative, bold, empathetic, quirky and intelligent people that filled our little production closet is what made it home. So, to my staffies (staff writers) and eddies (editors): thank you for being courageous with me. To Twombley/Twomb: thank you for letting us be courageous. Journo, as we like to call it, is the best thing I was a part of in high school.

Throughout most of my highschool career, I’ve generally been pretty risk averse. From freshman year to now, I’ve participated for the most part in activities that I’ve been doing since middle school. When I signed up for the class during sophomore year, I had absolutely no expectations; the “risk” was completely unexpected and uncalculated. I knew I liked to write, and that was about it. In the journalism classroom(s) you will always find the most intelligent, passionate, creative and chaotic students. Each student is driven to find the true intent and purpose of their writing or designing or illustrating. Beyond the practical and nitty-gritty – writing a lede, designing an InDesign page – journalism taught me to find my true intent and motivation for my thoughts and ideas. Make no mistake: we write what we write with the intent of bringing the problems of our community to light and celebrating the success of our peers, not simply for clicks or controversy. I’m proud to be a part of such a talented, opinionated group of students.

THE Class with a voice

Journalism senior goodbyes | JUNE 2020

Kyu Kim

Staff writer

Um I just got here. I had all my credits on track to graduate and had some free spaces so just slapped on some courses that seemed fun or interesting and Journalism was one of them. Going in, that’s all I took with me. I knew about the infamous Mr. Twombleythough I never really had interactions with him- and had classes with most of the senior editors so that was about it. When I first arrived I was unsure and contemplated leaving but was convinced to stick around a second longer, and it’s safe to say I’m glad I did. Since most of the other senior editors and others younger had been a part of the Journalism program far longer than I had, they were already a pretty tight-knit group and the staff writers were mostly underclassmen with an exception of a few. So I was in a unique position to observe and be inspired by the effort, determination, professionalism, dauntlessness and gall of the experienced writers in action. Mr. Twombley lived up to and even surpassed the image I had of him before us meeting. My film reviews of ‘Joker’ and ‘Parasite’ were written with the support of many discussions where Mr. Twombley and I would rant together about the two movies and their deeper meanings and implications. It was truly wonderful.

Maya Virdell Features Editor

The past four years in journalism have flown by! It feels like only yesterday I was a scared and timid freshman trying desperately to find the classroom. This sounds cheesy, but I didn’t just end up finding the classroom (eventually that is), I found a family and a community. A space where I learned the power of my voice and others too. Where I learned I had the power to make a difference with just mere pen and paper. It wasn’t always easy but I’m grateful to journalism for pushing my limits, whether that be from writing difficult pieces or trying to figure out how to use Indesign. Although, I’m still not quite sure how to use Indesign. From the French classroom, to the greenroom, to the old yearbook room, I want to say thank you to all the staff writers, editors, cartoonists I’ve interacted with, and of course our brilliant advisor Twombley! To my incoming and returning journalists, please continue with our unique decoration choices, impromptu signs and niche lists plastered on the walls. And of course continue having fun Fridays and wacky circle shares. But most of all keep writing and being brave, continue delving deep and truth seeking! Sending much love to The MIHS Islander for all the memories and lessons learned, I cannot wait to see what the program will achieve next!

Isabel Funk

Managing Editor, Opinions Editor, lead Writer Joining the school newspaper was an accident, although if you know me now, a total newspaper-nerd, you’d probably never guess it. As a freshman entering a new school district, I didn’t know that signing up for Journalism meant joining the newspaper staff. But I thank my lucky stars that I found that tiny green room, plastered with photos, cartoons and inside jokes, and found a family (led of course by Twombley). Journalism feels like home. My high school experience, looking back, hinges on the many hours spent in a hidden room down a disregarded hallway behind Leadership and in our cramped former yearbook room. Journalism literally turned my whole life upside down. The newspaper gave me my best friends. Like any family, we’ve had ups and downs, but we’ve gained bonds I’ll hold on to for the rest of my life. Our failures and disasters taught me as much as our celebrations and successes. The Islander helped me find my passion, a vision for my future. It gave me a voice, a way to use my words. I feel like my journey as a journalist is just beginning, but it never would have started if I hadn’t stumbled upon the best secret in this school: you’ll never find a more supportive, competitive, determined community than The Islander.

Journalism senior goodbyes | JUNE 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Dear Twombley/Twomb/Twombo/ T-womb/Twombles/Twomblani,

While we wish we could say thank you and goodbye to you in person, you’ve taught us the power of our written word. So we’re going to use it here. We’ve known you for all of our high school careers. There are countless memories we could tell, countless skills you’ve taught us and countless life lessons you’ve shared. There are so many things we could thank you for, but we’d like to list a few. Thank you for letting us run in and out of your office and classroom at inconvenient times. Thank you for writing us notes to skip class when there was an impending deadline or an emergency. Thank you for letting us make fun of you (and for making fun of us in turn). Thank you for making us laugh. Thank you for listening to our boy problems, giving us advice and making them feel uncomfortable in the hallways. Thank you for coming in on the weekends or early in the mornings (or in the evenings) and feeding us while we struggle. Thank you for reminding us that old white men can be woke. Thank you for pushing us to exceed our goals. Thank you for having faith in us when we didn’t. Thank you for letting us break down (sometimes) and cry when we needed to cry. Thank you for giving us a space where school felt like home. Thank you for being our own personal cheerleader. Thank you for lifting up our voices as young women. Thank you for challenging us and never backing down (and teaching us not to either). Thank you for actually listening to us and treating us with respect. Thank you for having our backs and protecting us at your own expense. Thank you for teaching us to be courageous, empathetic and passionate young adults. Thank you for teaching us to be people first, journalists second. Thank you for being the best adviser. Thank you, but this is not goodbye. All the best, Isabel Funk, Ellie Gottesman and Annie Poole

Alli Hixson Staff writer, graphic artist

Kiran D’Souza Back Editor

Joining the journalism class was a recommendation that my brother gave me, and I honestly was surprised because I did not think he wanted to be in the same class as his little sister. But joining the class instantly became a highlight of my high school career. Finding a community in high school where they urge you to push your boundaries and use your voice is hard to find, but because of Twombley and the other editors, journalism is that community. We were encouraged to say our truth, even if someone else would disagree, and in high school that can be seen as daunting, but ultimately it was confidence building and inspiring. While I only joined in junior year, journalism was an experience that I am extremely grateful for. The room was full of ambitious and hardworking people that never failed to make me laugh. And I am hoping that the next set of editors will continue filling our wall with more lists like the most superior star signs and other memories. To the next writers of the MIHS Islander: cherish your moments in room 502, you won’t find another class like it in high school.

THE CLASS THAT LOVES ASSEMBLIES

A message from your homies in the leadership class, your ASB and Senior Presidents: No one could have imagined our high school journey would end this way. Boy, oh boy, it really does make us think about the experiences we have had over the years. We will forever be known as “that class.” The class that steals stall doors in the bathrooms. The class that rips sinks out of the walls. The class who forced the school to invent the Islander Way. But also, the class whose empathy is unparalleled. The class that truly embodied inclusion. The class whose determination and unity shined during their last year at MIHS. The way our high school journey ended is entirely unique to our class. We will always be that class who persevered together through a pandemic. No matter what your situation is

Photo Courtesy Thomas Lee

Presidents’ Letter | JUNE 2020 currently, know that we stand together. Be proud of yourself for staying strong in these times. However sad it is that our senior year got cut short, we can still look back at what made our class, as well as our experiences, great at Mercer Island High School. We can still remember those first days of walking the halls, desperately searching for our classes as a freshman. Freshman year seems like so long ago, but at the same time, these past years have gone so quickly that it’s hard to believe we are already “graduating.” In four short years, all of us have grown in so many ways. Outwardly, many of you are unrecognizable to freshman you, but the changes on the inside are a much more worthy measure of our growth. High school is an...interesting place. As was with ours, we’re sure your time here has been marked by glorious highs and disheartening lows. Despite the chaotic nature of high school, our experience here defines a part of who we will be for the rest of our lives—but only a part. We know you will all continue to mature and constantly strive to surpass your own personal goals. In five years, 10 years, and beyond, we look forward to seeing where your talents, hard work and spirit take you.

Photo Courtesy CARTER BURR

We have loved getting to know all of you, and working with you to leave a positive impact on MIHS. Finally, we are so proud to have spent our last year serving as ASB President and the 2020 Class President. There is no group of people more promising, empathetic or outright goodlooking than the MIHS Class of 2020. We can say with confidence that you will all be future trailblazers, innovators, world-changers, supermodels and superheroes. Although the year did not end like we would have wished, and the future remains uncertain, we will always remember and cherish these times we have shared together here at MIHS. That’s about it. Stay motivated, stay goodlooking and stay safe, Class of 2020. Hope to see you all soon. Sincerely, \

Carter Burr and Thomas Lee

Class of 2020 President & ASB President

24 Departing staff | JUNE 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

Departing MIHS Staff: We Will Miss You Barbara Hallgren

ATtendance Secretary

I was born and raised on MI. I was in one of the largest graduating class from MIHS in 1972, we had over 500 graduates that year. My three children all graduated from MIHS. My career for the district started when my youngest child was in 1st grade. I worked at West Mercer for seven years before moving up to the High School. I will be retiring at the end of the 2020 school year after 29 years. This career has been more than I ever envisioned. I have worked with an amazing staff and wonderful students over the years. I will miss you all. Photo Courtesy Mercerislandschools.org

Vicki Puckett

PRINCIPAL

Islanders â€“ You are an amazing group of students. Over the past eight years in my role as your Principal I cannot tell you how much you mean to me. You will be in my heart as a very special group of students and staff. I have so many funny and wonderful memories of our Islanders over the years. I came into Mercer Island HS on my motorcycle to welcome you to MIHS and had hoped to go out on my motorcycle leaving you but COVID-19 school closure canceled school. As I leave MIHS and the community of Islanders... I will miss you very much. Your sincere dedication and your love and care for your families, friends and teachers has always been impressive to me. My only regret is not being able to say goodbye and farewell to you in person. I am pursuing other wonderful job opportunities next year so hope to cross paths with you in the future. Good luck and stay safe. Photo By SOPHIE POOLE

Diana Apacible

SPECIAL ED TEACHER

I am most thankful to you, my wonderful students, for giving me the opportunity to be part of your lives. I have learned so much from you, and you have made me a better teacher. Thanks to all the staff for your constant love and support during my stay at MIHS. Please keep in touch, I am just a stoneâ€™s throw away at Lakeridge Elementary School. Warmly, Ms A

Michael Harper ENGLISH TEACHER, CREST So long, and thanks for all the fish.

Departing staff | JUNE 2020

THE CLASS WITHOUT A GOODBYE

Brian Lawrence

Band Teacher

I am taking a leave of absence from MISD to pursue my master's degree. I have accepted a graduate teaching assistantship at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas which begins in the fall. It is bittersweet. This is an opportunity for me to have my master’s degree fully paid for, while still getting to teach and play music every day! But I will really miss working with the wonderful students and staff of MIHS. I can’t wait to check in and hear how the band is doing! Photo Courtesy Mercerislandschools.org

Jenny Foster

ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL

I will remember my two years at MIHS fondly. We have an amazing staff and incredible students. I feel blessed to have started my administrative career here at MIHS and grateful for the opportunities to grow as a leader, advocate for students and support teachers and their instructional practice. I will miss the daily interactions with students and staff most. One of my greatest and fondest memories was being part of the Margins Program last year in which we spent months preparing and learning about social justice issues/topics about former incarcerated, homeless and undocumented populations. Our trip to Los Angeles to experience first-hand and learn more about these issues along with our students and my fellow administrators is one I’ll never forget. Photo Courtesy JENNY FOSTER

Donna Paulson

TECH SPECIALIST

Hello and Congratulations to the Class of 2020! Thank you for letting me be a part of your lives for the past two years. I have enjoyed my time at MIHS. I appreciate the respect, patience and friendliness that you showed me. Please remember these times with fondness. Remember we made it through. We became stronger. I wish everyone the best in their next adventure wherever that may be. Thank you and always proud to be an Islander. Photo Courtesy Donna PAulson

Also leaving MIHS:

Jo Krell, Kit McCormick, Alicia Mendes, Emily Morse and Thacia Stirling

Thank you for all that you’ve done!

26 thank you teachers | june 2020

THE MIHS ISLANDER | mihsislander.org

your use of ally a c e b me asic d, r ive to courses are b r. But t o a f f m a r t o f .S rte ry ns Dear Mrr year was trao think that histoudents look smae present, Junio ith th used t e the st d class. I hat they mak ng the past w arner. Instea H S U e t i l t t c AP e u p e v e o t a passi ss, exc ing ab g, conn pointle your teachin I am not just es and bring gaging en at su h throug shown me th ing social is tfulness, and eas and t e h a id v g l you ha be contemp assion, thou sharing my ic. p g r n ld I shou actively. You e feel safe i underlying lo panded s s m t e i d e g d n a ex the n ad chan tyle m r of history a t economics ut s g n i e ou ng abo ss w i b o n a teach r p a h e e c l h u fun om me t e cla taught ave learned s class. I had ring th a e h n h r e I also in you ed wh bulary d was amus a c o v ought my me an you br h e n h o c i s t a i r a hig Ponz inspi geist.” g “zeit much for the bility held by ke n i t n a h c you so cial responsi you will ma t Thank so ow tha dents in the ng the n i l k a I e v d e n stu in r dent. A many more u t s l o scho ct on e impa m a s e h t future.

i - Rina L

Dear Ms. McCorm

k, Thank you for everythin g you taugh throughout 1 t 0th grade. W hile at the tim thought epic e I poems such as Beowulf w dreadful and ere boring, I lear ned to appreci the lessons b ate eing taught ab out the deep meanings o er f these read ings and th reflecting thro en ugh a written essay. Those same lessons you once tau ght to a you and immature ng sophomore hel ped me prosp into a colleg er e ready studen t. Thank you for what was my favorite cl ass throughou my 4 years. S t orry for being such a pain sometim es... - Jack Hixon

Joe

I do Bryant , tran n’t t hink sfor mat two I c i som short ye ve takin ould h a e imp thing ars of c g radio ve eve lass that act r im wou , Iw ould on my has un my tim ld be f agined or m with e in dou life. nev how b r you . You fo er hav Witho tedly adio ha e. Yet, e h i u outs challen ught to ended t you ad a p s becom n ged ide e p g u e r u e p shin man incr of m in t me t me en g e h to t dible y com to wor a spot. e class for m t o f h O k e both e com pportu ort zon harde nce I to beg , w mun nitie e i r n . a m men y lo s to You p and p s ther ity v u e scho tality. S e for c and lea tell s rovided shed m , t o r o d o e e , m I am l expe thank ativity other ries, g e wi t s r had SO hu ience e you for and “g . You ive ba h c mbl s you very m k e h ared akin t it d as m ed an th y te d gr ing it h g my h one” ache atef ul to as been igh r. . hav - Lila e

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Photo courtesy lila shroff

thank you teachers | june 2020

THE class who steals sinks r first into ou us d e k l a of w , ce we y one ing n n i 师 a s d e 老 i Dear 何 been a long timgrade. Little d continue learn e a 8th hav ould It has you in s later, we w teacher. To h t i w r such class ur year n incredible r success fo our o f t a h know t with such a icated to ou e in each of d se e ed lac Chines lives d a special p not just expo to r u o in in s e person me puts you ass, we wer ned the door ur l i e c t p h g n o i it o a lon ry day instead, you ing. Now, w y we e v E . hearts uage; f think y luck se w lang new way o ize how trul e ine n a to al ,a ing Ch our e e h r r c u e t a l e w t u c r , a new ar cut short r, passion fo the time in y e o y m t r u a ould h ti e senio unning ence differen re grateful w c r u o . ea are. Y irable pati that w erstatement y m a d s a d o d n an om. T , an u classro quite frankly eniors be, inese S

- AP Ch

berg, Dear Mrs. Schwartzmy favorite

teachers I have of e on e er w ebra You high school. Alg ut ho ug ro th l al ever had y two favorite tually one of m ac as w s or on H 2 admired your ore year, and I om ph so in s se ect, and clas my favorite subj is s ic at m he at took class. M sitive aspects that po e th et rg fo r I will neve ht me how to . This class taug ng lo ar ye l al e r,and an plac organizer, a thinke an t, en ud st nt tie cabinet be a pa loved the snack so al I t. an ip ic rt the active pa u will forever be yo d an d, te ar st s before clas have you was a privilege to “MIHS Mom.” It school o years of my high tw r fo r he ac te a as hers all the math teac s is m ill w I d an ics n my mathemat who I have grow h at M , ay Strong skills under. St i war Department! hesh

- Jai

Dear Mr. Noble, First, w

e know th hope your she e at we gr eatly ap p are doing we inclusiv ll. p e and c r omforta eciate your co Second, we w we are n ant t b trib le no stay wi t all pursuing environment f ution towards o let you or th cre ST awesom us wherever w EM majors in girls in STEM ating an . e go. T e and c c hank yo ollege, your w Although h be nois u y (mos aotic table of i tly Mar girls in for always su sdom will confuse i p s t por sa he d; your pa nonetheless, w and Lucy’s fa back. We kno ting our tience. T ult) and w we c e value hank yo a for offe u for ch your teaching are almost alw n ring us ecking i a a fantasti y n us!) and s d a re gra n on c lif fo you hav r giving us flex e advice (coll us when we loo teful for ege dec e ib ked ups isi e potentia taught us to pe le due dates. T hank yo ons do not de t, rsist thr l. We ap fi u o p ne ugh sel for belie eat thei reciate y f-do r lu vi o forgiven nch in class (d ur leniency tow ubt and to rec ng in us; og ar on es for bein s when they f ’t worry they d letting Grace nize our ne or g an – you n the catalyst fo getfully ate ch ver ate peanuts d Chloe r our fr ips. Mo ever ge ) and you ien ta st anyway r s). Rem nother group l dships. We pra of all, thank y ike us ( ember, o y fire fire u – for y the go ! We wi ll miss y blue (-Maris y could never our sanity Love, sa and ou next Ellie) a measure up year an nd s d we can’ The FYZ t wait to tay fire X Gals (C visit! hloe, M

arissa, M attie

Claire, and Sara Ellie, Grace, Lucy h) ,

Photo courtesy grace zhang

Lucy Whitney

Tara Manhas

Claire Cheung

Polly Schaps

Ichi Nakata

Adam Kipust

Gabe Neale

Joe Gormley

Natalie Wilson

THe Islander Chose nine Seniors That represent the Spirit of The Class of 2020. To see more, visit mihsislander.org.

PORTRAITS BY LENA HARDISTY AND ALLI HIXSON