Pepper Box - March 2023

SPOTLIGHT Page 6

There are many great spots to visit in St. Louis during the Spring

A&E Page 7

SPORTS Page 8

Five Ritenour athletes committed to play sports next year in college

THE PEPPER BOX

RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL

IN THE NAME OF SAFETY

Keeping an eye on public safety

Public safety has become a global issue

Safety in public, and specifically in schools, is something that weighs on everyone’s minds, and has been very challenging for administrators to take control of.

New safety procedures go into effect at RHS

IDs, clear backpacks, and more measures have come to the high school in an effort to protect students and staff on a daily basis

BILLIE FORD Staff Reporter

Starting the second semester of the 20222023 school year Ritenour implemented a set of new safety protocols, to “help make the High School a safe learning environment.”

Students coming back from winter break were introduced to a number of rules that were new to Ritenour, and some that have not been enforced in so long that the students who were in attendance at the time they were enforced are now long

graduated.

Students and parents were officially notified four days before the first rule was put into effect.

There were six new rules that were implemented after winter break. All students and faculty members must wear their ID’s around the neck or clipped to their shirts above the waist. All students have specific assigned doors for building entry during school arrival. The high school is encouraging all students to use lockers to store personal belongings. All students

are required to use clear or mesh backpacks. The safety team will be conducting safety screening with metal detecting wands during school arrival and at some school events, and ski masks and gator face masks will no longer be allowed in the building. Only medical grade/ style paper face masks are acceptable.

Ritenour High School principal Dr. Jana Haywood said that there were many different things that prompted

Story continues see NEW RULES on p. 6

In 2023 alone, there have already been a total of 72 mass shootings as of February 15. There have been an average of over 600 mass shootings per year since 2020, compared to an average of 200-500 from 2014-2019. As a result of these increasing numbers, people are starting to see more safety precautions in areas where large numbers of people gather, including schools.

The shooting at Central Visual Performing Arts on October 24, 2022 was just another specific and close to home reminder that no community is immune from such activities.

Many Ritenour High School students and staff had already been worried that a similar event would occur in our building. Even though the new safety rules that were implemented at Ritenour were not created specifically due to the occurrence at CVPA, they have still helped the community feel much safer.

“It was hard going back to school knowing what could have happened to us and how important our safety measures here at Ritenour are and how they shouldn’t be taken

lightly in any way,” senior Kyla Williams said. With the rising occurrences of violence at any location with a large amount of people, conversations and actions to ensure safety have been more common everywhere in the community. Many concerts have similar safety protocols to these new additions in our own building. Many of the students have had experiences with said safety protocols. Junior Megan Weisz has found these to be very effective in her own personal experiences.

“Most venues don’t allow bags at all or they check them, along with none bigger than 12 inches,” Weisz said.

At Busch Stadium, Cardinal fans must pass through metal detectors before entering the arena and pass many police officers throughout their time at the game.

“These safety protocols help those people feel at ease and allow them to enjoy the game, so even though I don't feel unsafe and I have to wait an extra 20 minutes in line, it is worth it if the person next to me can feel safe as well,” junior Samantha Lohnes said. While there are controversies regarding the new rules at RHS, Williams understands why they’re so important after seeing so many instances of mass shootings in the news.

“Although many may

Story continues see SAFETY on p. 6

Cafeteria extension and weight room are being built

Construction has hit the high school as the final pieces of Proposition S are being completed

PEYTON HOUSE Staff Reporter

Ritenour High School is making some major changes to the building, including a brand new weight room, an extension to the cafeteria, as well as a new office for the athletic trainer.

The changes come as a result of Proposition S, a $19.5 million zero tax rate change bond issue that was accepted by voters on June 2, 2020. Some of the work connected to the proposition has already been completed, but the cafeteria and weight room construction began as students returned from winter break.

While students are excited,

it has caused some congestion in the hallways.

“The blocked off part of the building is pretty annoying, but I heard we’re getting a bigger cafeteria and new weight room which is pretty cool,” sophomore Calli Hodges said.

Athletic trainer Taylor Kuehl believes that her new location will allow better access to the athletes and the athletic office.

“I am really looking forward to my new office which will be across the hall from the new weight room.

I have been coordinating with Mr. Lohnes and Mr. Laskowski about what my new athletic training room will look like. I think it will be

a great space that will allow me to treat more athletes efficiently, and having the opportunity to help design the space I will be working in is exciting,” Kuehl said.

Though there are many positives to these upcoming changes there are some current negatives. Students are having some strong opinions about these route changes getting to classes claiming how much longer certain trips take.

“These blockages are really annoying, but I get that they’re necessary. The most harm these blockages add to a detour is a minute which, don’t get me wrong, may not seem like a lot, but it is when you only have five minutes

to get across the building,” junior Drake Robinson said.

Many athletes and coaches are looking forward to a new and improved weight room.

“The new weight room is going to be a great space for students to exercise as the new weight room will be spacious and state of the art,” Coach Rick Shelton said.

Math teacher and former basketball coach Jason Graves says that staff has been advocating for this weight room update for a long time.

“As an ex coach, we have been advocating for an updated weight room since I got here back in 2000, and I also advocated for varsity locker rooms for sports teams,” Graves said.

9100 ST. CHARLES ROCK ROAD, ST. LOUIS, MO 63114

The longtime band director is retiring after 30 years at Ritenour

Photo by Liz Dobbs

Students have made the best of the new safety policies, which include clear or mesh backpacks. Luis Mejia Molina made a Gucci tag for his backpack to show that individuality can still exist.

SKYLAR POWERS Staff Reporter

Photo by Liz Dobbs Parts of the school have been blocked off, and the art students decided to embrace the changes.

Visual EIC: Danielle Haynes

Online Editor : Leanna Duncan

PEPPER BOX STAFF

Content EIC: Chloe Sapp

Opinion and A&E Editor: Tori Pratt

Production EIC: Jennifer Huerta Lopez

Social Media Manager: Julia Lohnes

News and Spotlight Editor: Caroline Groceman Special Edition and Sports Editor: Layla Fouche Adviser: Ron Steinschriber

Staff Members: Evelyn Araiza Garcia, Mya Cates, Elizabeth Dobbs, Billie Ford, Caden Gaither, Jaden Gavin, Peyton House, Zoha Iqbal, Jack Jamison, Kaylee Jorke, Allison Madrid, Jordan Matthes, Kya Merriman, David Moore, Amareona Muhammad, Mariam Neeb, Skylar Powers, Amanda Salazar-DeLoyola, Margaret Susovica, Ashlin Thomas, Hallie Thornburgh, Klayton Wilkinson, Koby Wilkinson, Virginia Williams

Editorial Policy: The Pepper Box is designed and created by members of the newspaper staff of Ritenour High School. The purpose of the newspaper is to provide a forum for the students to focus on issues, give opinions, and share information with the Ritenour High School community. The opinions expressed in this paper do not reflect opinions of our faculty or administration.

Staff Editorial - Burnout burdens

and grades drop, and subsequently, mental health suffers.

Spring Break is right around the corner, yet it feels a road trip away with about 50 pit stops and a flat tire.

Every year, students feel a mental burnout start to seep in around this time. Winter break feels forever away and we are counting down to the last day of school, or if you are a senior, you are counting down to graduation. Around this time, attendance

“Senioritis” has been impacting seniors in high school for years, essentially becoming the reason for the existence of “Senior Skip Day”, but we’re starting to see burnout across all grades. With juniors taking the ACT and preparing their college visits, they also are going through much stress, leading to burnout.

Burnout may seem inevitable, but it’s something

Word on the

we can avoid in ourselves by investing time in self-care. Inspired by the “Senior Skip Day”, taking a day off for your mental health to either catch up on work or just take a break from being in the classroom can be beneficial and help you feel refreshed for your return.

Another way of avoiding this slump is by involving yourself at school. Having an activity to look forward to can promote coming to school. Whether it be joining an after school club, participating in a

Are you happy about the change of weather?

“Absolutely. The cold, I cannot do it because I get so cold so quickly. And since my skin is darker, the colder I get, the ashier I get. That is the worst.”

musical ensemble, or joining your school newspaper (hint, hint), these organizations provide some fun in an otherwise boring school day. If you’re more interested in your academics, you can inspire yourself by setting short or long term goals. If you’re motivated by the challenge, you can set goals like getting a certain grade in a class or mastering a skill or language. The feeling of achieving something you possibly originally didn’t think you could will fill you

“Yes, because my birthday is around Spring time and I just prefer warm weather over cold weather.”

with a sense of pride. This goal-setting can help you stay focused and be more interested in school.

Yes, we can count down the days til we get to the freedom of summer, but in order to prevent overall doom and gloom, we should enjoy the days of high school. You know what they say; it’ll be gone before you know it and you’ll miss it more than you think.

"Yes, because I do not like how cold it is, and I like spending time outside more."

“Yes, because I cannot wait to not have to be in warm clothes all the time; it is so uncomfortable. I just do not like cold weather either. Summer would be so great right now."

Comics

The Kitchen - Klayton Wilkinson

"Yeah I am, I do not know, there is a little more joy in the air when the sun is out a little bit longer, and going home when the sun is up instead of the dark cold."

Miles Weicht-

Kitty

Teyon CraigJunior

Corrine SpearmanSophomore

Destiny KincaideJunior

Juan Bobe Arce - Sophomore

Sophomore

that Draws - Mya Cates

The Central community returns to school

CVPA

On Tuesday January 17th, students of Central Visual Performing Arts Center (CVPA) resumed in person learning. They allowed virtual to stay an option for students who are not ready to come back.

After a shooting zthat claimed two lives, the school had been virtual since October.

To start the process of the students returning, CVPA is beginning with only half days, with the option for students who don’t yet feel comfortable coming back into

the building being able to attend school virtually.

Being a student in high school, I couldn’t begin to understand the pressure and the reality of going back to school after something so tragic happened. Not even being able to compare how scary it was with a fake scenario at Ritenour to how scary it was for those students that lived it in real life.

After experiencing something so life changing at school, going back for a full day almost feels detrimental. The way that CVPA is starting with half days is something that I think will go in the best direction as they start bringing kids back to school.

To think about how strong those students are to be able to go back after such a life-changing event that happened, especially with all the mental issues these students will now face, is something that I couldn’t even imagine.

From someone who is a big advocate over mental health, I am pleased with how CVPA is reacting to

student emotions and how they are taking that into consideration. Growing up I have heard about so many school shootings and with them getting closer it becomes a bigger scare. Going to school, you never think that your school will be the one that ends up on the news for something like this. I feel like even though it will be tremendously hard for those students to go back to school, overall it will help them process more of what

happened with their peers who experienced the same thing. Even though going back to school for them is terrifying I feel as if it is a necessary part for their grieving process, especially being able to be surrounded by their peers and others who understand what they went through and are going through.

The way the CVPA is going about bringing these kids back into school, is a way that will better help the students

grieving get back into what they say the ‘norm’ is for school. School will never be the same for those students after experiencing what they did, but how understanding CVPA has been about bringing them back is staggering.

As a community we all understood bringing the students back to the school would be absolutely gut wrenching, we knew that it would be a long process yet beneficial in the end.

There is just something about seventeen

The transitional period between childhood and adulthood is confusing, and causes many teenagers to feel caught in between expectations of their school life and their future

Growing up should be a positive, happy progression, but that doesn’t mean that the positivity is constantly flowing in a linear fashion.

Remember when you were 10 and you thought 13 was old?

Remember when you were 13 and you thought 16 was old?

When I was these ages, I always felt like I’d be in different mindset once I was older, and I was correct! But I didn’t change in the way I thought I would change.

As a junior, I'm 16 going on 17, but very soon, I’ll be a senior that is 17 going on 18. Something about the age 17, to someone younger than 17, sounds like a weird in-between. You’re too young to be making mistakes that “kids” make, but you’re slowly creeping into the age that now, aside from the absence of childish mistakes, serious things are going to be expected from you.

17 also sounds like you have no more time. 17 sounds like Cinderella at 11:50 p.m. right before the clock strikes midnight. Once you hit 17, you only have a couple more months before you have to make the first decision that sets up the rest of your future.

Of course you can change that decision, but once you change it, it starts to feel like you’re wasting time. You feel like you’re doing overtime and you are falling behind. However, does it have to be like this? A part of growing up is trying to find out if what you’re thinking and feeling is normal. Does everyone else feel like they’re running out of time? Does anyone else feel like they’re stuck in a video game they’re expected to win but they have no idea what the rules are?

Do other people know what they want, know who they are, know how to follow their gut, know the steps to achieve their goals, know what makes them happy and know what is needed from them?

The answer is: kind of. Most people know they have important decisions to make, but not everyone is stressed

at the same points with the same intensity. The truth is, is that everyone sees the world differently. To some, the age 17 sounds like what I said, it sounds like a sliding door that has almost finished sliding all the way to the other side, and once it closes, it can’t be opened. But to others, 17 sounds like “almost freedom.” It sounds so close to a new invigorating chapter of their life that is just beginning. My advice, is to just relax. Try to remember that it’s never that serious and that even if you fail in your plan a, as long as you get back up and try, there will always be a plan b, c, d, e, f, g, 1, 2, 3, etc., etc. Of course the pink, glossy afternoons where hours melted slowly and vividly into one another are now over, and instead a time-sensitive, strict mindset where priorities and responsibilities reign supreme

Editorial Cartoons

has been put in place, but that doesn’t mean your childlike positivity should be stripped from you. As you’re learning and growing, try to incorporate some newfound awareness of the world into things that make you happy. Growing up and transitioning into a new chapter of your life brings changes, but these changes should never be something you’re scared of. You may reflect on how your past self would’ve described your future self, and you might realize, “wow I’m nothing like how I thought I’d be,” but that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. Find satisfaction in the new, and don’t hold onto the past, especially if doing that takes trial and error.

Allison Madrid

administrators offered great returning options for students after a traumatic experience

Tori Pratt

Illustration by Mya Cates

Image by Ron Steinschriber

Illustration by Klayton Wilkinson

A banner hangs in the cafeteria in the memory of the teacher and student who were killed at CVPA.

Spring brings transitions everywhere

Juniors and seniors are looking ahead, while middle schoolers are anticipating freshman year

KYA MERRIMAN Staff Reporter

Now that second semester is almost halfway done, eighth graders are starting to think about life at the high school. The following is a list of advice about transitioning to the high school.

Do not take yourself so seriously

Try to have some fun, it is important to make memories in high school. These four years give endless opportunities to make memories to last a lifetime. It may be cheesy to think about now, but looking back in the future, people will be thankful they had fun. People who take life too seriously will miss out on life-changing memories and lessons. Get outside every once in a while. Going to athletics and school events can be great catalysts for making friends and new connections. Make the time spent at school a little more enjoyable.

Don't overwork yourself

When something is assigned, do everything possible to finish it in class. The less school work that has to be done outside of school, the more free time will be available. Try not to procrastinate. Procrastination is usually not going to be beneficial in the grand scheme of things. Leaving loads of work until the last minute will only cause problems in the future! Protect future well-being by doing school work when it’s assigned or as soon as possible. People who pace themselves are less likely to feel overworked and overwhelmed.

Don’t overthink this entire process

Things will get in the way; it’s inevitable. This might be anything from challenging assignments to toxic relationships. Life happens, but in order to persevere and do what is best, it is important

• "Being responsible”

• “Waking up a bit later and seeing familiar faces from Ritenour Middle”

• “I am looking forward to the experience but also getting it over with.”

• “Fun activities”

• “Prom, homecoming, and graduation.”

• “Being more independent.”

• “The support they have there.”

• “Orchestra.”

• “The soccer team.”

• “To get taller.”

• “Freedom.”

• “The entire experience. Bigger school, more people, new learning, opportunities, sports games, etc.”

to push through and not get caught in a mental funk. Everyone is going through similar situations. Overthinking struggles and issues that may occur can hold people back. Trust the process.

Work hard for what you want

Nothing is going to come easy. To be successful, whatever that looks like individually, it will require hard work. Putting in the effort is tough sometimes, but it will pay off. There are things that can be done to help create success. Taking schooling seriously now may be the connection to making future paychecks and a dream career. Seize the day now, because it may be harder in the future. It’s never too late to make steps in the right direction.

Stick with the right crowd

Don’t get involved with people who are not going to push you to be the best version of yourself. The people that students get involved with should not jeopardize their future. Those people should not be forcing impressionable young minds into making questionable life decisions. Instead, choose people who are optimistic and positive, people who will are uplifting, and people who celebrate successes. High school is a time when personalities are shaped and friend groups have a large influence on that.

Prioritize your mental health

There won’t always be someone to help in times of need, so high school students have to watch out for themselves. Students who are always going and going without a break might find that their body and mind will begin to wear. In cases like that, try taking an hour or two during the week to do something that brings individual joy, like gaming or hanging out or being creative. High school can be extremely overwhelming and stressful, so ensuring that mental health is taken care of will help to prevent unnecessary stress and keep the mind healthy. The human brain makes very important decisions and actions on a daily basis and without a

healthy and relaxed mind, it may struggle to make these decisions.

Ask for help when you need it

No one is going to judge people for needing help. It is better to speak up and self-advocate than to suffer alone. The point of school is to challenge students so they can learn new skills and information. Sometimes these challenges may seem daunting and scary to face alone, so it would be beneficial to ask for help from a peer or adult. There is no shame in this. That is what teachers are there for, to help students learn and face challenges headon. Suffering in silence never helps the situation. The problem doesn’t get solved and it can become more stressful or frustrating. These problems can be school related and even socio-emotional based. Either way there are resources within the school and community that can help. Try seeing a teacher or guidance counselor when in the face of a challenge. Don’t be scared to ask for help.

Be involved but not too involved

Being involved in sports and extracurriculars can enrich the mind and provide a unique experience for high school. It can also beef up college applications and even supply leeway for scholarships. However, if too many extracurriculars and activities take away any free time, they can lead to stress. Ensure that there is enough time to focus on school work and mental and physical health. Time for personal care and relaxation is very important in these detrimental years and development. Without this relaxation time, it could lead to a loss of motivation. Mental health and physical health is ultimately more important than that extracurricular activity, no matter how good it looks on a college application.

Reggie Verhoffexhilirating

Brandon Ochoaexcited

Michaela Heltonnervous

Transitioning into senior year Pathways

Jada Bradley - “I am planning on applying to colleges. In state, I’ve been considering Truman, UMSL, Lindenwood and a couple more but I’ve also been looking for better opportunities in other states as well. “

Preparation

Janice Leonardnervous

Naya Fordindifferent

Egypt Draperdetermined

Class of 2025

How does transition make you feel?

Jada Bradleybittersweet

Ellie Weisslermind-boggled

Cailan Wooteneager

Ava Verhoffoverwhelmed

Class of 2024

Jayden Bockexcited

Brooke Carlileoverstimulated

Aundre'A Berrybittersweet

Kyle Williamshopeful

Class of 2023

Seniors look ahead to the future Pathways

Aundre’A Berry - “My plans after high school are to attend a 4-year university, as a Business major, and possibly continue dancing. I also plan to get my esthetician license through a small program.”

Kyle Williams - “I plan to go to school for education and come back to teach for a while before going back to school to get higher degrees and certificates.”

Brooke Carlile - “I want to go to medical school.”

Preparation for the "real world"

Brooke Carlile - “I have a job, I pay bills to an extent, and I've taken classes about how to manage finances.”

Kyle Williams - "I've done a lot of research on resources and opportunities to make me the most successful. I believe that I can do whatever I put my mind too and I put in the work to get there."

Jayden Bock - “For my future, I have not only prepared myself academically, but mentally. I know throughout these four years we have been driven by our academics to be prepared for futures, but many of us seem to lack the mental capability. I think that I have trained myself to know that even though I am entering an unfamiliar place, I am not alone. I am about to enter a world where there are so many people that will be around me that have the same common interests as me and will be just as optimistic as I am. As long as I focus on my mental health and keep that on track while being away from home I think I will be great. I have so many tools that I have been given these past years that I am ready to take on the world.”

Next Steps

Aundre’A Berry - “I am feeling mixed emotions about taking the next step towards my future. I’m excited because I’m ready to see all of my hard work pay off, but I’m nervous because I’m frightened of failure and once you’re in adulthood, there’s no going back.”

Jayden Bock - “I am very excited for the next steps in my future. I can't wait to see what is in store! Although, I am a wee bit nervous to step out into adulthood.”

Cailan Wooten - “As someone who naturally plans and thinks ahead, I think I've been preparing for my senior year since middle school. This year in particular though, I've been focusing on academic rigor and choosing what colleges I'd be interested in attending. Junior year has probably been the most academically challenging year of my school career as I'm taking all advanced classes, including 5 APs, but I think it'll be worth it.”

Jada Bradley - “I’ve started getting ready to take ACT’s and looking at college tours I can take this summer. It's stressful really, there are so many options and different choices to make to decide what I want to do with my life.”

Looking forward

Jada Bradley - “I’m definitely looking forward to senior crowning and the senior sunrise, but overall I’m just excited for the entire experience of being a senior.”

Cailan Wooten - “I am interested in seeing how the activities I'm already in further develop next year. Especially seeing how the orchestra changes and develops with the introduction of some of the current freshmen/sophomores. Plus, it will be my first year without any of the original chamber orchestra members I was with in my sophomore year, so I'll be getting outside of my comfort zone a little bit with it, which I don't mind.”

Ava Verhoff - “I’m looking forward to all the times seniors get free food or get to get out of class.”

Next Steps

Ava Verhoff - “I'm feeling kind of confused and scared, but also pressured about making sure I have an idea of what I want and I need to take care of steps to get there immediately.”

Overcoming struggles and advice from upperclassmen

Janice Leonard - “I’d say I’ve gotten better at allowing me to be myself. Not caring about what others think as much.”

Naya Ford - “I used to be bad at math, then I started using my own tactics to learn things. The structure of the classroom wasn’t working with my brain, so I made my own system. Now, I’m really good at it.”

Aundre’A Berry - “A struggle that I'm struggling to overcome as I'm transitioning into college and further careers is me limiting my opportunities due to fear of failure or not being capable.”

Work for what you actually want. Don’t let someone talk down on you if you don’t think college or the military is the best fit for you.

I would say try not to take yourself too seriously. You're still a teenager, and the things you want will probably change over time.

Everything is going to be okay, just stay on top of your work and you’ll make it.

Don't spend all your time worrying about the right college, the right program, or the right grade. They don't matter more than your wellbeing or the memories you make during your teenage years.

Keep yourself motivated and don’t procrastinate about work because it will quickly build up.

Be open minded! Sometimes you might close off ideas that you aren’t used to or ideas that aren’t appealing but you’d be surprised when you just give it a chance.

NEW RULES- Continued from page 1 the decision to implement these new safety protocols.

“Part of the decision was prompted by survey data that more than 50% of staff members and students indicated that they did not feel safe on campus. So because of that, we were looking at practices we already have in place. There are organizations that specifically look at school safety and security, and many of them are multi-layered approaches to creating a safe school environment and we wanted to make sure we had those things in place,” Haywood said.

Ritenour has had several instances in the past year and a half that have brought up the question of safety to many people, causing a demand for appeasement of extremely concerned parents and students, however, the response to these new requirements are varied.

Since the official announcement, students have adjusted well to the new protocols. Most students have had no problem following them especially in order to avoid the consequences that

come from breaking them.

Numerous students have expressed their dismay at some of these consequences that come from breaking the rules. During arrival time, if students enter the building without their school identification they are immediately sent to in school suspension where they will wait for a temporary ID to be issued. After so many times coming in without an ID, students will be required to pay for a new ID card.

During arrival, if students are not using the required clear or mesh backpack, the one they are currently using will be confiscated along with all of their belongings and won't be returned till the end of the school day. Many students and even some staff members have said this is problematic.

“I feel like we're veering away from education and focusing more on safety,” sophomore Kamryn Hufstedler said. “While I understand that by trying to keep weapons out of students' hands we gain an education as well, I should not have to keep going back and forth

to the eleventh grade office to retrieve my belongings, because I'm not allowed to have my bookbag.”

While the school provided clear backpacks to all students who wanted them, some have already found that they are in need of a new one.

“I tried to use the clear backpack provided and it broke, I was told that they couldn't give me another. What if I wasn't able to afford to buy my own?” junior Angel Allen said.

Beyond just the consequences given to students for not following new guidelines, some students have expressed how they believe that this will not help the school in the future.

“Overall, I think the rules are well intentioned, but misguided. I think that they don't really address the root problems of why these things are happening in our school and community and a lot of it is the fact that they can't really do much outside of school as far as laws and policies, so they have focus more on the inside of the school with deterrents like clear backpacks and metal

Haux retiring after 30 years

The band director has been a foundational piece of Ritenour

SKYLAR POWERS Staff Reporter

Hadley Haux has been the band director for the Ritenour bands for 30 years, making him the longest tenured teacher in the building.

He has directed the Symphonic and Concert Bands, Marching Band, Jazz Band, and even teaches the piano courses. He has made quite an impact in tje community on all things music.

Even Hoech Middle Band director Clifford McDaniel has learned much from Haux.

“He is always there for me to bounce ideas off of for help with the Hoech bands,” McDaniel said.

Haux has these sorts of effects on many of his colleagues in the music department.

“From helping with student music programs, and showing me the ropes, to providing real opportunities to help me grow as an educator, I would

not have been able to do my job effectively without Haux's guidance,” orchestra director Blake Hernton said.

Hernton, along with choir director Stephanie Ruggles are in their second and first years at the high school respectively. In addition to those two, Emma Kanerva is in her first year as the electronic guitar teacher, which means that when Haux retires, the entire music department will be within their first three years at Ritenour.

Haux tends to give many students great opportunities to grow as musicians within in the school and even in other settings.

Senior trumpet player Acacia Helton expressed immense gratitude for having Haux push her to take advantage of these opportunities.

“I am in the Northwinds, which is a band filled with people as close as others in the Ritenour community and people who drive at least

three hours every Thursday night,” Helton said.

Many students are feeling bittersweet about this drastic change on the program and are finding it hard to picture a band program without Haux.

“He has been there for so long that everyone is used to him. I feel like the change might drive people away from the band,” sophomore baritone player Kriss Davis said.

Having been the band director for this amount of time, Haux expressed uncertainty about what life is like outside of Ritenour.

“It’s been hard to wrap my head around the idea of not being Ritenour’s band director. It’s very much part of who I am,” Haux said.

Everyone in the building appreciates the impact Haux has had in everything, music or not, in the last 30 years.

“Thanks Haux for your service as a music educator, you will be very missed,” said Hernton.

detectors,” junior Cailan Wooten said. “Those cultivate a school's environment where students feel like they're under suspicion for not really doing anything wrong.”

Dr. Haywood understands those concerns, but believes that the implementation of these rules will ultimately benefit everyone in the school and increase relationships among staff and students.

“I actually think that we are creating structure that will allow us to build stronger relationships with students. Now there is an administrator and a SEL (social emotional learning) team member that greets every single student that comes through the door because we're actually doing those ID checks and eventually we will be doing some randomized wanding,” Haywood said.

Dr. Haywood acknowledged that while some may feel targeted by the individual policies, they are all intended for the greater good.

“With the clear backpacks, although I understand the need for personal privacy, schools are not personal

property locations, so we are responsible for the masses. It very similar to if you go to a concert at a stadium, if you go to a sporting event, going to the airport or wherever you have large groups of people, often there are some levels of safety measures," Haywood said.

SAFETY- Continued from page 1

dislike the rules that are in place, I know it’s best for our community in the long run,” Williams said.

Teachers have seen other changes in safety protocols occur much more than compared to the students. Public safety measures have always existed, but have started to really expand over the last 25 years, and English teacher Louise Haar-Chapman believes that there are a variety of things that need to be addressed to

prevent such harmful events.

“Ultimately, I wish we lived in a world where such security matters weren’t needed,” shared English teacher Louise Haar-Chapman, “Unfortunately, this is where we are, so we need to make sure we address these issues of anger, violence, and other mental health challenges our students face along with enforcing the policies we have.”

New ACT support

A new ACT prep class helps students prepare for standardized tests

Ritenour High School provides a plentiful amount of opportunities for their students to get a jump start. Ritenour has been partnered with the Kleitz Education Group (KEG) for over ten years to help already advanced students grow even more in the ACT prep program.

Kleitz Education Group is a tutoring program that focuses on smaller groups of students and helps them prepare and improve on standardized tests.

“We provide a more affordable opportunity for more students to get the help they need,” said Dan StuppRatican, the tutor who comes and helps students at Ritenour regularly.

KEG is used to provide extra one-on-one tutoring that teachers can’t always fulfill.

“While KEG offers this program to Ritenour School District at a significant discount, there is a fee for it, which is covered by the district so as to offer it for free to their strongest students,” says Alli Kleitz. “The program is offered to over two dozen schools in the St. Louis area but, only a couple of others receive discounts similar to Ritenour’s.”

Typically the course has 25 students each year getting prepped for the ACT out of a top 40 pick. They are

picked based on their practice ACT scores and what math classes they have taken. This ensures the group of advanced studentswill have the same base set of knowledge so that there’s more time to focus on the individuals.

This is one reason that Stupp-Ratican likes working with the program so much.

“By tutoring and teaching small group courses I get to spend so much more time directly benefiting my students and working on the content they need help with,” Stupp-Ratican said.

Stupp-Ratican also enjoys the fact he gets a chance to show his students that they are capable of achieving their goals.

With the program, they handout several older ACT packets for students to practice with and learn to handle test anxiety and answer questions more efficiently. They also provide homework to study up on not only the material but to put the new strategies into effect.

When the idea of an additional six hours of homework added onto their weekly schedule, it causes students to stray away from the idea of this program. However, some students find it beneficial to them.

“I like how it’s forcing me to actually study and show me what to expect from the test,” junior Katie Kurtz said.

Photo by: Chloe Sapp

RHS Band director Hadley Haux leads the band during the Black and Orange Day celebration at the start of the year. Haux is retiring after 30 years at Ritenour.

HALLIE THORNBURGH Staff Reporter

Photo by: Ron Steinschriber Assistant principal Lindsay Hawkins checks as junior Taylor Henley gets her ID out of her backpack to enter school. The ID checks are part of the new safety rules enforced at the school entrances, as well as random wanding.

March Madness - Best current artist

March has become synonymous with college basketball and March Madness, so the Pepper Box is going to run a bracket of its own.

From the time this issue is released until Spring Break, the Pepper Box Instagram page (@RHSpepperbox) will be putting up polls for readers to vote on their favorite musical artists. The bracket was seeded by the Pepper Box staff members.

Follow our Instagram page for updates and the ultimate winner of the tournament.

The tournament will begin on Friday, March 9.

Pop

R&B

Participate in the tournament on Instagram, @RHSpepperbox

Hip Hop Country

She's back, baby: Rihanna delivers at Super Bowl

In her first performance in seven years, Rihanna mixes music and maternity at her halftime performance

on silver platforms along side her backup dancers.

Rihanna showed out for her halftime show performance at the 57th Super Bowl on February 12.

Rihanna fans flooded State Farm Stadium in anticipation of her first performance back. The Super Bowl performance was the first time that Rihanna has been seen performing in seven years.

People watching live and from the comfort of their own homes watched as the artist put on a captivating performance high in the sky

The singer/songwriter stepped out in an all-red getup styled by Jahleel Weaver. Her outfit consisted of a custom floor length puffer coat from the brand Alaïa, fitted over a jumpsuit and glossy bustier, both made by Loewe. She then finished off her look with a pair of MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon Cross High sneakers.

Rihanna performed a medley of some of her most popular songs during the halftime show. Her 13 minute setlist consisted of her songs:

• B-- Better Have My Money.

• Where Have You Been.

• Only Girl (In The World).

• We Found Love.

• Rude Boy.

• Work.

Rihanna also had a set of commercials lined up to match her performance. Besides her performance, Rihanna surprised her fans by showing off a belly bump, seeming to be pregnant with her second child. This would be confirmed later in the night by her representative.

Top Spring Break spots

LIZ DOBBS Staff Reporter

Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens is one of the must see spots in Saint Louis. Make no mistake, the gardens are beautiful all year round, however, spring months are where they can be admired for all their beauty. The gardens can be enjoyed for all those 13 and up at $14, while anyone 12 and under can enjoy the gardens for free. Not only do the gardens offer a beautiful view for anyone to appreciate, there are many classes up for grabs with landscaping and gardening as the focus. Garden walking hours are Tuesday through Sunday 9 a.m- 5 p.m. It is closed to the public on Mondays.

Saint Louis Zoo

The zoo is always free, making it the perfect spring break spot. While entry is free there are a few park ttractions to enhance your zoo experience.

The Conversation Carousel features some of the many animals that can be seen at the zoo.

Don't feel like walking?

Take a trip around the zoo on the railroad, giving your feet a break while simultaneously getting a fun filled tour. The Zoo’s winter hours are 10 a.m4 p.m Monday through Friday, 9 a.m- 4 p.m Saturday and Sunday.

St. Louis offers many indoor and outdoor attractions that can offer fun during Spring Break this year

Spring Valley Trail City Foundry

This 3.4 mile long loop trail can be described as a challenging route, taking an average of 1 hr and 12 minutes to complete. This well marked trail takes hikers through a scenic route in the woods, though good hiking conditions may vary as the trail can become slippery after heavy rain. There is parking available at the trailhead, however, there are no facilities or water available.

If you’re looking for a taste of something new or maybe in search of a new go to store, City Foundry has it all. With 17 kitchens and 13 local shops this is the new hot spot for many up and coming businesses and chefs. Not only is the Foundry a stage for many to show off

their creative ideas and their talents, it is also the host to many live concerts and even some charity events. Amongst the 17 kitchens there is something for everyone, ranging from many gluten free options to vegan and vegetarian options.

Union Station

Union station has many attractions to offer for any kind of family fun. Just to name a few, the Saint Louis Aquarium can be found in Union Station, along with

the Saint Louis Wheel and Union Station’s famous soda fountain. Parking is credit card payment only, though hourly and special event rates do apply.

PEPPER BOX STAFF

Ariana Grande Adele

Halsey

Justin Bieber

Dua Lipa

Ed Sheeran

Jazmine Sullivan SZA

Muni Long

Lucky Daye

The Weeknd Childish Gambino

Kendrick Lamar

Megan Thee Stallion

NLE Choppa

J. Cole

Rod Wave

Nicki Minaj

Chris Stapleton

Zack Bryan

Jason Aldean

Tyler Childers Kelly Clarkson Luke Combs

AMAREONA MUHAMMAD Staff Reporter

Photo courtesy Loewes; @Loewes on Instagram

Photo courtesy Retrodells via Wikimedia

Photo courtesy Robert Lawson via Wikimedia

Photo by Liz Dobbs

Photo by Danielle Haynes

Photo by Danielle Haynes

A worker at Loewes prepares Rihanna's outfit for the Super Bowl.

Five Ritenour athletes commit to colleges

Athletes will further their academic and athletic careers in volleyball, football, and track

MARIAM NEEB Staff Reporter

Five senior athletes have signed to different colleges to pursue their athletic careers once they graduate from high school.

Despite balancing two other sports throughout high school, Watson has earned a partial scholarship to run track at Pittsburg State University in Kansas.

“I experienced a great visit and a great coach,” Watson said. “PSU has the best indoor track in probably the whole country. It’s a great place to be.”

Watson has been running the 200 m, 400m, 4x100 m, 4x200 m, and the 4x400 m

since last year and will be competing in the 400 m in college. He also played football and basketball and has received offers for both of those sports as well.

Hahn has been playing volleyball as a libero (a defensive specialist) and will be attending Southwestern Community College to continue playing volleyball and also to accomplish her goal of becoming a dental hygienist.

Alexandra Hahn chose the school mainly for the academics.

“It also had a great environment and everyone was so friendly and helpful when I went to tour,” Hahn said.

Head girls volleyball coach

Ellen Kim is excited for Hahn and assumes that she will play and make an impact on her college team.

“Lexi has worked very hard at volleyball and put in a good deal of time researching her college options,” Kim said. “She has 2nd-Team AllConference and 2nd-Team

All-District honors to back it up as well as several school records.”

Another committed athlete who will be seeking to play sports throughout college is Elijah Fry. He has been offered a full scholarship to Truman State University to play football next fall.

“It’s one of the best education programs in Missouri, and it’s close to home enough where family can visit. The football program and culture seems great to be around,” Fry said.

Fry has been active in trying to get himself recognized by recruiting colleges.

“I’ve been going to a whole bunch of football camps in the summer time (and) working out with people that have a whole bunch of connections with head coaches,” Fry said. “It has been a dream of mine ever since I was younger.”

Another football player, Eli Mitchell, has also been signed to play in college. He earned both a football and academic

scholarship to play at Iowa Wesleyan University in the fall along with senior Leon Mitchell Williams. Mitchell says he has been playing football since he was seven years old so he definitely has many years of experience in the sport.

Head football coach Yarmon Kirksey states that he was excited when he found out that the football player got signed.

“It was something that Eli had really wanted,” Kirksey said.

Mitchell said that he is looking forward to the experience not just for himself, but also for his family.

“It’s so inspiring,” Mitchell said. “I just want to keep going for my mom and it’s something that I really want to do.”

Inside the Huddle - Looking forward to Spring

Question:

What are you excited for in the upcoming spring season?

Abel Suarez Baseball

“Bunch of new guys, we're all building chemistry with everyone we can, and try to play the season as best as we can.”

“Plenty of more games than we did last year, and being better than I was last year.”

Calli Hodges Track

"I’m really looking forward to working on my discus and javelin throw. “

Maria Ventura Romero Soccer

"I'm excited about how it’s my last year playing, and to possibly get the opportunity to be captain this year."

Chiefs and Eagles battle in Super Bowl LVII

LAYLA FOUCHE Sports Editor

The Super Bowl, the most anticipated game in the realm of football, made history in many ways during the 20222023 season.

The Kansas City Chiefs were crowned as the champions of Super Bowl LVII with a score of 38 to 35. Not only was it a riveting game for all, it brought many historic moments.

Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts were the first black quarterbacks to play against each other in the Super Bowl. This is a huge accomplishment for the black community because even though the National Football League (NFL) is dominated by African Americans, this is the first time that fans got to see a match up like this.

Alongside the black quarterback matchup, this was the first time in NFL history where two brothers played against each other in the Super Bowl. Jason Kelce played center for the Philadelphia Eagles and

Travis Kelce was the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. Fans of both teams started to market "The Kelce Bowl," which eventually led to the NFL’s unofficial title of the championship game.

The teams facing each other has struck much controversy amongst fans over who was going to win. Despite differing opinions, senior Nathan Watson has been a long standing Chiefs fan who undoubtedly supported his team.

“I’ve been rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs ever since the sixth grade”, Watson said.

On the opposing side of things, many were supporting the Philadelphia Eagles, senior Elijah Fry being one of them.

“I rooted for the Eagles because I really like Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown. Brown is such an underrated wide receiver”, Fry said.

For those who’s favorite teams weren’t playing in the Super Bowl, like Athletics secretary Rebecca Rodenburg, they were subjected to picking a side.

“I wasn’t rooting for either

team, but I kind of wanted the Eagles to win because I am a Bears fan”, Rodenburg said.

Rihanna’s halftime performance has gotten numerous mixed reviews by the media. Some say it was mediocre and others loved it.

“Rihanna’s performance was cool. I mean, it would have been better if Kanye was out there for “All of the Lights”, but it was definitely cool for sure,” Watson said.

What really took America by storm was her unexpected pregnancy announcement.

“Her being pregnant is no surprise to me. Her husband is ASAP Rocky,” Fry said. People on the internet assumed that she was with child, but were hesitant to confirm their opinions. Women, most specifically mothers, knew she was pregnant.

“I noticed that Rihanna was pregnant right away, so I told all my friends. Considering the fact that she's about six and a half months pregnant, and that she had a dance group from New Zealand as back-up dancers, I thought it was pretty good,"

Rodenburg said. While the game offered scoring opportunities from both teams and a game that went to the wire, the last holding call has been the most controversial topic of the game. Chiefs fans believes that the call was apparent.

“If you know football, that’s a clear hold. He definitely grabbed the jersey when he turned left field and

came through the outside of the five yard,” Watson said.

Many Eagles fans believes the refs won the game for the AFC champions.

“I feel like it was bull crap too, but I feel like the whole game was refereed poorly on both sides. It’s no surprise,” Fry said.

Yusuf Al Madjeed Volleyball

Photo courtesy RHS Athletics

Seniors Elijah Fry, Leon Mitchell Williams, and Eli Mitchell sign with their respective colleges as the football staff looks on.

A historic Super Bowl matchup featured many subplots that kept Ritenour staff and students interested

Image by Danielle Haynes

Photo courtesy RHS Athletics Senior Lexi Hahns signs to play volleyball at Southwestern CC.