The Little Hawk

THE

LITTLE HAWK Vol. 112

Iowa City, IA

March 2026

THE SCHOOL THAT READS REAL NEWS THE LITTLE HAWK “Seek Truth and Report It” Since 1926

Issue III

MELT THE ICE

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VIDEO: Opstad Auditorium Renovation Set to Finish Before Spring Musical

ICCSD students held a sizable walkout Thursday, Feb 5 to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) actions Opstad will have a new lighting system. By Micah Hartwig, Will Meis, and Miles Thomas

STAFF EDITORIAL

BANNED

By Little Hawk Editorial Board The Iowa City Community School District is seriously considering the implementation of a new phone policy that would consist of an all-out ban on electronic devices from bell-to-bell; that is, from 8:50 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon. The new, stricter policy aims to remove the distracting device that is the smartphone, but how much is it actually going to do? STAFF ED PG 8

NEWS

MOCK TRIAL PREPARES By Nico Vergara-Vanegas

ICCSD students walked out of class on February 5, then met downtown at the Old Capitol Musseum. The demonstration included speeches by walkout participants and other Iowa City community residents. PHOTO BY LILY RANTANEN

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By Lily Rantanen

owa City Community School District students walked out of school Thursday, February 5 in protest of ICE’s treatment towards immigrants. Following the walkout, a demonstration took place in front of the Old Capitol Museum on the University of Iowa Campus. “It’s important that we step up for our immigrant neighbors when things are too unsafe for them to,” Sasha Ackerman ‘26. “We have the privilege to speak up and protest and be fairly safe doing it, so we should use it.” The event, run entirely by students at Iowa City West High School, was attended by high school and middle school students, University of Iowa students, and members of the wider Iowa City community. The students staged a walkout from class and gathered at the University of Iowa Pentacrest around the lunch hour, called “Melt the ICE.” “[Jack Overholt] came up to me in one of my classes because I’m a very political person,” West High junior Moss Stutsman, who helped organize the walkout, said. “They were like, ‘hey, I want to plan a protest. Can you help me?’ and I was honestly really honored.” “People like to ignore issues that don’t directly impact them,” Evans said. “But it’s not hard to look outside and see people struggling. Anyone can open up their eyes and see that the shutdown is impacting the people around them, [and] they just don’t want to because it’s uncomfortable.”

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Stutsman said that planning the walkout took about a week. He and Overholt communicated over Instagram in order to arrange details about the protest, involve other students, and design posters and social media posts. “It’s definitely very stressful, but I would do it tenfold just to get half this amount of people out here,” Stutsman said at the Old Capital Museum demonstration. “I am so proud of all these people. I’ve almost teared up like three times because I did not imagine all of these people would come out, to be quite honest.” By protesting, Stutsman hopes to see “change to the justice system.” “It’s not justice. It’s barely a system, to be quite honest,” he said. Stutsman said that walkouts serve as starting points and “thinking pools” that allow other community members and people in positions of power to know how protestors feel. Almost all of his teachers put up posters promoting the walkout in their classrooms because they knew that other students would be interested, which allowed students with similar beliefs to join the walkout. “I really think it’s the start of, ‘hey, you have community in thinking this. Now let’s go out and make change,’” he said. Toby Morlan, a freshman at City High School, decided to participate in the walkout after learning about it from a friend who wanted to go. He had no idea that a protest was happening, but wanted to express his feelings in a public place and thought that Thursday was the best way to get involved.

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“The more that I find out about [ICE’s actions], the more that I want to help prevent and stop it from happening [as much as a freshman from Iowa] possibly can,” Morlan said. “There’s just too much hate in the world right now.” Although this was Morlan’s first time participating in a walkout or protest, he believes that they play a significant role in political participation, especially for younger people. “Protests and walkouts are both important because as students, people don’t believe that we have a say in a lot of what goes on everywhere,” Morlan said. “But we have so much to say, because we are the future of our country.” Morlan felt inspired to speak up because he was surrounded by people who felt the same way he did. At the Old Capital demonstration, he gave a speech denouncing ICE’s actions along with two of his friends, also high school students. Worry about ICE presence—including rumours of activity in the Des Moines area a few weeks ago—remains in the public eye. But for students like Ackerman, Stutsman, and Morlan, actions like walkouts and protesting are the first step towards change. “Someone said this at the protest: ‘if they’re not listening, just get louder and louder until all they can do is listen,’” Morlan said. “And that’s what we, as a people, as the younger generation, need to project and let them know.” A version of this article originally appeared in the Iowa City Press-Citizen on February 6. The Little Hawk

The air is frosty and quiet. The lake sits serenely in the middle of a clear Iowa night. An old hotel sits right next to the lake. All is calm. But suddenly, the hotel bursts into flames. Someone comes running out of the building, and sirens can be heard from across the city. The firefighters attempt to put out the fire, but it is too late and the hotel is gone. But this isn’t real life—it’s the 2026 Iowa High School mock trial case. mock trial PG 3

A&E

ALUM JOINS MUSIC DEPARTMENT By Estelle Hartz

City High alum Rachel Meehan ‘21 has joined the music department as the new assistant director of vocal music. Meehan will be leading several of City’s musical groups for the remainder of the year including Treble Choir, Advanced Treble Choir, and Select Treble Ensemble. She will also be involved in helping out with the treble prep show choir, Charisma.

NEW DIRECTOR PG 6 The Little Hawk

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

2 LETTER FROM THE EDITor

Martha’s Mini

Hi Little Hawks and Friends! It’s been a few months since we’ve published a print issue of The Little Hawk, but in the meantime, we’ve published a feature magazine and have been hard at work making sure our website looks great. I’m especially excited for the March issue because March is my birthday month, and there’s no better gift than TLH. In a few weeks, I’ll turn 18, a monumental milestone in life. This year isn’t just a big anniversary for me, either. Quill and Scroll—an honor society for high school journalists—was founded in Iowa City in 1926, and City High was one of its founding members. 100 years later, its membership has increased to almost 15,000 schools around the world. In January, TLH celebrated the induction of its newest Quill and Scroll member class. This issue, we celebrate the hundred years of history that has created The Little Hawk we know today. Here are some highlights from the March issue: On page 3, Jonah has written about Mock Trial’s upcoming competitions—first Regionals, and then hopefully State! On the following page, Martha has put together a gallery of photos taken from the ICE walkout in February to go along with our front page story. City High alum Rachel Meehan recently started her new job as assistant director of vocal music. You can find Estelle’s profile on her on page 6, along with a rundown of the midwinter choir concert at Voxman. Our staff ed this issue is about the potential new phone ban that the ICCSD school board will be voting on this month. We take the stance that it would do more harm than good—after all, the district’s current policy was implemented just last year. Tessa’s most recent Unbreakable Female Athlete profile is on Rachel Haack, who has recently committed to Colorado State University. Haack is an all-state track and field athlete who competes in shot-put and discus. There’s something for everyone, so enjoy! Keep up to date with us on Instagram (@ instalittlehawk) and read more on TheLittleHawk.com.

LH GAMES

Letter From The Editor

Across 1 Often heard saying “...and Go Little Hawks!” 4 Non-medical professionals who support others with things related to pregnancy 5 Finished

Your favorite (current) executive editor, Lily

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THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

3 NEWS

UPCOMING DATES By Martha Willard and Lily Rantanen

Spring Sports Boys and Girls track and field began on Monday, Feb. 23; Girls golf, boys tennis, and boys and girls soccer all start Monday, Mar. 16, during spring break.. Students interested in participating can register on Bound.

Spring Show Mar. 8 The annual show choir Spring Showcase will be held at West Branch High School on Mar. 13 at 3 and 7 PM. 4th Ave, City Highs’s award-winning varsity show choir, will perform their 2025-26 show Heartlines and will be joined by treble group Charisma, City High jazz programs, and an assortment of special acts. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online or at the door.

Mock trial coach Jason Schumann leads a Friday morning practice session with Louis Berry-Stoelzle and Jonah Hefti. They were preparing direct questions to ask witnesses. PHOTO BY JONAH HEFTI

Mock Trial Teams Shoots for State Championship

College Fair Mar. 10

On Mar. 10, a college fair will be held at the Center for Innovation at 11:30 AM for all 11th graders in the Iowa City Community School District. Representatives from colleges around the country will be present to discuss options after graduation. Interested students must register beforehand.

Music Dep. Trip Mar. 11-20

of City High’s bands, choirs, Mock trial begins preparations for its upcoming competitions andMembers orchestras will travel to Germany and By Jonah Hefti

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he air is frosty and quiet. The lake sits serenely in the middle of a clear Iowa night. An old hotel sits right next to the lake. All is calm. But suddenly, the hotel bursts into flames. Someone comes running out of the building, and sirens can be heard from across the city. The firefighters attempt to put out the fire, but it is too late and the hotel is gone. But this isn’t real life—it’s the 2026 Iowa High School mock trial case. “The mock trial case this year is State versus Seneca Crane,” Jason Schumann, City High history teacher and one of the mock trial coach, said. “It involves a hotel owner who is accused of arson, and he is alleged to have burned down the hotel that he owns.” The case revolves around whether the accused, Seneca Crane, burned down their own hotel for the insurance money, and City High’s mock trial team prepares to represent both sides, the defendant and the

prosecution. At competitions, City High will battle to see which side can represent their ‘clients’ the best. “We only have one guaranteed competition, which is the regional competition,” Schumann said. “Depending on how you perform in the regional competition, then you advance to the state tournament. If they perform well in the regional competitions, some of the mock trial teams will be able to advance to state. “The past two years we’ve had teams that have made it to the state championship and then have gotten runner-up”, Schumann said.”This year the goal is to bring home a state championship trophy.” Since the case has come out, the team has begun meeting more frequently in order to prepare. “I’m going to most certainly have to spend more time [on mock trial],” Jonah Alam ‘26, a mock trial member, said. “I’m going to have roles assigned to [me] and I’m going to also have to work at those and begin writing [for’ them…but I mean, once

you get used to it, it’s pretty easy.” Mock trials purpose is to simulate a courtroom. However, not only students interested in pursuing a legal career participate. “I will not be pursuing a legal career,” Felix Cook ‘28, a mock trial team member, said. “I do mock trial both because I’m interested in learning how legal system works and also [because] there are some very funny moments and funny acting we get to do.” Although the teams are beginning to prepare and the case has already come out, there are still opportunities for students to learn about mock trial and decide if it’s for them or if they wish to participate next year. “There are [still] spaces for alternates to come and watch.” Schumann said. “And especially if you’re maybe interested in future years, it’s a great idea to just come to some of the practices and get a sense of what we do before you make a decision about whether or not it’s an activity you want to commit to.”

the Czech Republic over Spring Break. Selections from their tour program will include The Boy Who Picked Up His Feet to Fly by Joshua Shank, Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal by Alice Parker, and Battle Hymn of the Republic. They will visit Berlin and Prague, as well as other cities. This is the City High Music Department’s first foreign tour since 2023, when they traveled to England.

Early-Out Mar. 13 School will be released two hours early on March 13, the Friday before Spring Break.

Spring Break Mar. 16-20

No school March 16-20, and the district will be closed on March 19 and 20. Students will find a new spring in their step after a weeklong break from school.

Orchestra Concert Mar. 25 City High Orchestras will hold their annual dessert concert on March 25 at City High. This will be the first City High Music Department event in the newly renovated Opstad Auditorium. Symphony Orchestra’s program will include selections from The Phantom Menace.

No School Apr. 3 No school on April 3 in observance of Good Friday. The district will also be closed, and it is the end of the third quarter for elementary and middle schools.

March College Visits Mar. 8 Bradley University (2:30 in the library) Mar. 25 St. Ambrose University Mar. 30 University of Northern Iowa College representatives are available in the cafeteria during A and B lunch unless otherwise otherwise specified.

4 NEWS

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

GALLERY:

Students Protest ICE

ICCSD students held a sizable walkout Thursday, Feb 5 to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) actions

ABOVE: ICCSD students gather at the Old Capitol Museum after walking out of school Friday afternoon. PHOTO BY LILY RANTANEN

ABOVE: Crowd gathers at the Old Capitol to protest. PHOTO BY LILY RANTANEN

ABOVE LEFT: Lawrence Jones ‘28 walked out of school to protest at the Old Capitol. PHOTO BY STELLA DEMAREST

ABOVE: ICCSD students gather at the Old Capitol Museum after walking out of school Friday afternoon. PHOTOS BY LILY RANTANEN AND STELLA DEMAREST

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

5 NEWS

City High Student Wins KCRG Award Senior Amal Eltayib was recognized as the KCRG Student of the Month for January 2026 for her science research and student nonprofit. This award “celebrates the best and brightest” K-12 students in Eastern Iowa.

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By Liyan Elgiseer

mal Eltayib ‘26, whose dedication in the classroom has not gone unnoticed, was selected as KCRG’s Student Of The Month. “Amal stands out as one of the most intelligent, hard-working, creative, and special students I’ve worked with in my career. Her list of accomplishments is nothing short of spectacular,” Mr. Bacon said. Her impact, however, goes beyond academics. Alongside her work in the classroom, she has also been involved in efforts that support the wider community, which she says makes the recognition even more meaningful. “I am honored to be this month’s selectee, and am so grateful to Mrs. Peterson for taking the time to nominate me. While my research was highlighted, I’m especially glad KCRG also recognized the Golden Beaker’s work supporting local elementary schools, Eltayib said. Her achievements reflect more than personal success; they show the kind of initiative and sense of responsibility that leave a lasting impression on the school’s community. The Golden Beaker, a local student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allows her to give back to the community, raise money for low-income schools, and provide STEM education. As a student who attended a low-income elementary school and was

highly interested in STEM education, Amal wasn’t able to explore STEM in the way she wanted to. “We challenge our students to be leaders and make the world a better place. That is precisely what Amal has done. She is an amazing representative of our high school. She has made our school, our community, and our world a better place. The sky is the limit for this talented young person,” Eltayib said. While the award highlights her accomplishments, Amal says the journey behind them is what matters most. From teaching herself complex research skills to pushing through setbacks, she views the recognition as part of a much bigger learning experience. Amal has researched topics such as sarcomas and multiple myelomas, which are two forms of cancer. “Conducting research without mentorship was challenging, since my journey was entirely self-taught. After lots of trial and error, it means a lot to see the impact my work has had, especially in bringing attention to underrepresented cancers like sarcomas and multiple myelomas,” Principal John Bacon said. Even with her individual achievements, Amal is quick to point to the people around her. She says the support of her teammates, peers, and fellow leaders played a major role in her accomplishments. Amal is passionate about her teammates, including those in track and field and cross-country. “This recognition reflects more than just my work. I’m grateful for my teammates

Amal Eltayib poses with her invention presentation. PHOTO COURESTY OF AMAL ELTAYIB

and peers through The Golden Beaker, track, and TSA-TEAMS, who inspire me and make everything I do more meaningful,” Eltayib said. With graduation approaching, Amal is beginning to look ahead to the next upcoming journeys in her life. Amal hopes to go into the field of biotechnology and continue from what she has done in high school. She says the experiences she has gained in high

school, both inside and outside the classroom, have helped shape the path she hopes to follow after she leaves City High. “I hope to pursue a career related to biotechnology and build on the lessons learned from the high school science fair to elevate my research in college. Graduation is just around the corner, so I look forward to making many memories with my friends and family before we part,” Eltayib said.

City High to Offer Two New AP Courses Business teachers Joe Wilcox and AJ Leman will teach AP Cybersecurity and AP Business respectively. Both courses will be offered in the 2026-2027 school year.

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By Ramy Makawi

ity High will expand its Advanced Placement program next year with the addition of two new courses: AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity. Both classes aim to give students a college-level introduction and experience to these courses and prepare them for fast-growing fields in the future. AP Cybersecurity, taught by Joe Wilcox, will launch its first year across the nation through College Board. City has offered a cybersecurity class for the past two years, but the new AP version allows students to take an AP exam and potentially earn college credit. The course will focus on network security, firewalls, and VPNs. Students will participate in hands-on activities like “Capture the Flag” challenges, where they practice ethical hacking in controlled environments to understand how to defend systems from threats. According to Wilcox, prior coding experience is helpful but not required for the class. “There’s been a shift,” Wilcox said. “Cybersecurity is where the growth in computing is right now.” Wilcox added that cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing career fields in Iowa, with strong salaries even for students who

pursue a two year degree. AP Business with Personal Finance will combine core business principles along with financial literacy. The course will cover how businesses operate while also teaching money management skills. Business teacher AJ Leman said the class will be similar to the college credit business courses he already teaches, but with the opportunity for students to take the AP exam at the end of the year. “In my class, since I actually run businesses, you’re going to learn a lot about how to run an actual business, not just from the assignments, but from a lot of discussions, and then hopefully some of the speakers we bring and some of the community partnerships that we form throughout the class,” Leman explained. Students can expect real-world applications in the class, including guest speakers from the community and potential marketing projects for local businesses. Both courses aim to prepare students for college and careers while expanding City High’s already large AP course offerings. Registration is still open and available for anyone needing to make changes for their schedule for next year. “[I’m excited to] learn about the business side of things, and trying to apply it in my every day life,” said YoBenni Tejada ‘27, who will take AP Business next year.

Joe Wilcox (left) and AJ Leman (right) will teach AP Business and Cybersecurity next year. PHOTO BY RAMY MAKAWI

6 A&E

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

A MIC to Remember Student nonprofit Music Impacts Community (MIC) held a concert at the James Theater in downtown Iowa City

By Margaret Cilek and Anna Platte

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usic Impacts Community (MIC) had their “A MIC to Remember” concert at the James Theater on February 3. The night was bathed in pink and blue stage lights and featured everything from classical piano to classic rock covers. There were seven acts, all composed of local high school students. “Playing the music I love with people who understand it [never gets old],” drummer Ethan Kardos ‘27 said. Kardos played in the opening act, a discordant jazz group that immediately filled the theater with noise and high-caliber musicianship. They were several people’s favorite group and set the tone for the rest of the night. People of every age and from all over Iowa City filled the audience, and every act was received with enthusiastic cheering and applause. Ella Stone, a vocalist from West High, performed with Akiho Sugiyama. “[My favorite moment was] getting to connect to the audience and to the music. It’s always nice

to be on stage and hear their applause and know that it’s for you,” she said. MIC members were flitting around and adjusting equipment all night, but according to Silas Gollnick ‘26, the behind-thescenes work for this event was fairly relaxed. Kylie Buddin, who works with UAY (DID XYZ) “We didn’t really have to do a whole lot and just kind of sat back and let Kylie [Buddin] do his magic,” Gollnick says. “And then [we did] a little bit of programming, reaching out to performers and everything like that. It was a group effort between the James Theater, Kylie at UAY, and the MIC.” Since 2024, the MIC has been raising money for organizations in Iowa City. The money raised from “A MIC To Remember” was donated to the Emma Goldman Clinic, a not-for-profit women’s healthcare center. “I was one of the ones who brought [the Emma Goldman Clinic] up. I know that they’d previously talked about it, but I pushed for it. I’m a feminist, I’m a big supporter of women’s rights. One of the greatest places we have in Iowa City is the Emma Goldman Clinic,” MIC treasurer Rowyn Maas ‘26 said.

James Tilley ‘26 (sax), and Ethan Kardos ‘27 (drums) performing on February 3rd at the James Theater PHOTO BY ANNA PLATTE

Alum Joins Music Department Rachel Meehan ‘21 will lead Treble Choir, Advanced Treble Choir, and Select Treble Ensemble for the remainder of the year. By Estelle Hartz

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ity High alum Rachel Meehan ‘21 has joined the music department as the new assistant director of vocal music. Meehan will be leading several of City’s musical groups for the remainder of the year including Treble Choir, Advanced Treble Choir, and Select Treble Ensemble. She has also been involved in helping out with the treble prep show choir, Charisma, during their competition season. “The music programs here were a huge part of my own musical development, and helped immensely in preparing me to pursue music in college. The band, orchestra, and choir programs here all have a rich history of excellence and are filled with students who are passionate and dedicated musicians,” Meehan said, “When the opportunity came up for me to join the team to help with this mission and give back to the community that helped me to get where I am today, it was a no brainer!” Meehan was drawn to a career in music education for many reasons. She was encouraged by her family and teacher-mentors to participate in what music represents at its core.

“I was inspired to work in music because it creates intentional community and teaches us how to truly listen to each other. In the classroom, music becomes a shared experience that encourages empathy and self-expression, and helping students discover that for themselves is what motivates me every day,” Meehan said. Meehan is planning on diving right into new music with each of the choirs and exploring a wide range of composers, genres, and themes. “Music has a unique power of connection and is considered by many to be a universal language. I’ve seen how it brings people together, some who may have never otherwise crossed paths, in really meaningful ways. Music gives us ways to express emotion we may not have the words for, and helps us to find and use our voices in important ways,” Meehan said. During high school, Meehan was the A&E and Copy Editor for The Little Hawk. Read her work here:

Rachel Meehan ‘21 conducts City High Choirs at the mid-winter choir concert. PHOTO BY NINA RENAUD

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

7 A&E

Cameron Echols ‘26 and Addison Klein ‘27 perform in the winter show choir show PHOTOS BY NINA RENAUD

Victorious Through the Season By Kelsey Herrig

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avier Highschool hosted the first competition for City High 4th Ave show choir team, Xtrabaganza. The teams competed on January 10th. The 4th ave team not only attended, but also won, Beating over ten other attending schools. The 4th Ave team has put in hours of dedication, work, and days of multiple camps. 4th Ave is ready to keep this win streak going through their season. Seeing their hard work and dedication pay off since August is a big paycheck for the team. Amelie Betchal ‘28 and Jillian Leman ‘26 were excited for their first competition of the season with their teammates. “I was super excited before because it was

my first comp in a varsity group. I had a really great time watching some of the other shows, and being backstage with everyone was so magical,” Betchal said. No matter if show choir is your only extracurricular activity, or it’s one of 5, it can be very time demanding. Practices during evenings can go for hours long and take up most weekends during competition season. Learning how to balance all of it is part of the show choir, but Betchal wouldn’t trade it for anything else. “Everyone is very understanding that you may not be at your 100% each rehearsal, but it is the expectation that your give all you can on each day. I personally try to get all of my homework done before rehearsal, so that I can go home and crash after,” Betchal said. “It’s going to be so difficult to let this group go, I’ve made the best memories and hope to impact future show

choir generations the same way the seniors did for me.” on their upcoming season to ensure they bring their best to every competition, but not to be too focused on performing and get so caught up they miss their season with their team. Finding a balance between focusing on their competitions and quality time with their team is something Bethcal treasures. “My favorite part of competitions is the freedom! I get to get all dressed up with my friends, then walk around and meet people with similar interests. The people on the team definitely make this season feel so special. Everyone is so hardworking, and the dedication really showed at Xavier. I feel so lucky to be a part of this,” Betchal ‘28 doesn’t want to miss her first varsity show choir season. In order to treasure her senior season,

Leman is finding ways to stay in the moment. “I think the fact that this is my last season makes it so special. I am so grateful to have spent my four years at City doing something so incredible, and I am sad that my time in show choir will have to come to an end. When on stage, it’s so easy to be consumed by the performance. This year, I’ve been finding at least one moment in each show to come back to reality. Whether it’s smiling at a friend as we pass each other, giving a quick pat of encouragement backstage during our quick change, or closing my eyes and listening to the applause between songs, it’s the small things that make it special,” Leman said. The City High show choirs have wrapped up their competitive season, but will host their annual spring showcase on March 8 at West Branch High School.

City High Choirs Hold Mid-Winter Concert in Voxman Auditorium Choir directors Matt Walker and Rachel Meehan led six groups in performance on February 11 By Estelle Hartz

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ity High choirs held a choir concert at the University of Iowa’s Voxman auditorium, featuring pieces from all four curricular choirs (Treble Choir, Little Hawk Singers, Advanced Treble Choir, and Concert Choir), plus two extra-curricular choirs (Männerchor and Select Treble Ensemble). Students began working on this particular concert set directly after winter break, so for roughly five to six weeks. ​“I decided to audition for the ‘One Voice’ solo because I’ve sung that song twice before, once in 8th grade choir and then my sophomore year in choir as well, so getting the opportunity to sing the solo this year for my senior year was like a full circle moment for me,” Julia Shannon ‘26 said. ​Throughout those short weeks, the ensembles worked on all aspects of their performance, including vocal technique, text, storytelling, dynamics, tone, rhythm/pitch accuracy, as well as auditioning soloists and collaborating with other musicians. ​“The biggest challenge was memorizing the songs. It’s always scary when we have to put our folders down for the first time and just trust that we know everything. One of the songs, “Dirait-on,” was in French, which made it especially challenging to learn,” Tehila Roseman ‘28, said.

The concert featured several soloists, including Julia Shannon, Farrah Zimmerman, Molly Nolan, Evelyn Mozena, Amelie Bechtel, Tehila Roseman, Mackie Uhl, Auggie Dickerson, and Marlowe Tobin. Many of the soloists were allowed just a little over a week and a half following callbacks and selections to practice their solos. “Each song brings unique challenges that we use as learning targets in the classroom. Whether the song is challenging rhythmically, incorporates text in a foreign language, or is particularly difficult for a variety of other reasons, we aim to intentionally create a balance in repertoire to target all aspects of our vocal music priority standards,” Rachel Meehan, assistant choir director said, “As far as the biggest challenge overall, at least for my ensembles, I would say that for this concert we focused most on vocal tone and dynamic contrast, which I believe translated really well to the stage Wednesday night!” The concert was not only special for the singers but for Rachel Meehan, who experienced her first ever concert as a choir teacher. “My favorite part was definitely working with Ms. Meehan. She became our choir director after winter break, and I am endlessly grateful for her. She is such a positive light and an incredible teacher. She’s also the first female choir director at City High, which made it even more special. I felt really lucky to be part of her first group of students,” Roseman ‘28 said.

Due to construction in Opstad Auditorium, City High Choirs held their concert at Voxman Auditorium at the University of Iowa. PHOTO BY NINA RENAUD

8 STAFF ED

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

GRAPHIC BY NICOLAS VERGARA-VANEGAS

The Little Hawk Little Hawk Journalism Staff Executive Editor Lily Rantanen News Editors Martha Willard Liyan Elgiseer (asst.) Sports Editors Jack Rogers Rito Perez Tessa Driscoll Ben Klitgaard Louisa Berry-Stoelzle (asst.) Caden Beard (asst.) Opinion Editor Nicolas Vergara-Vanegas A&E Editor Estelle Hartz Positivity Editors Ada Meineke Scarlett Carino-Marek Izzy Brown Feature Editors Lily Rantanen Rayan Ahmed (asst.) Video-Broadcast Melody Ross Avery O’Brien Social Media Ramy Makawi Staff Jack Lampe, Owen Raefield, Ben Haines, Kyle Hartwig, Jack Litton, Ven McGill, Micah Hartwig, William Meis, Bella Ragona, Kelsey Herrig, Liz Degner, Stevie Wilmoth, Oliver Erickson, Alex Donovan, Jacob Reid, Audrey Vande Berg, Henry Birt, Stella Demarest Advisor Jonathan Rogers

Mission Statement The Little Hawk, student journalism newspaper and website of City High School, aims to inform, educate and entertain readers. LH journalists follow the code of the journalist by seeking truth, doing no harm, being independent, and working toward balance in all news stories. All student voices are enouraged to be part of a LH journalism class. To join the class, talk to your guidance counselor today. Letters to the editor may be submitted to: LittleHawkPage@gmail.com ICCSD Equity Statement It is the policy of the ICCSD not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or socioeconomic status in its educationall programs, activities, or employment practices. If you believe you (or your child) have been discriminated against or treated unjustly at school, please contact the Equity Director at: 509 S. Dubuque Street (319) 688-1000

Letter to the Editors

Banned for Good?

T

he Iowa City Community School District is seriously considering the implementation of a new phone policy that would consist of an all-out ban on electronic devices from bell-to-bell; that is, from 8:50 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon. The new, stricter policy aims to remove the distracting device that is the smartphone, but how much is it actually going to do? ICCSD already has a phone policy keeping phones inside of backpacks during instructional time. This policy makes perfect sense. The smartphone is a distracting device that impedes the learning process in students, and therefore should be removed from classrooms. Beyond this though, there isn’t really an educational purpose to banning smartphones outside of class. Banning phones, headphones, Nintendo Switches, and home-computers during lunch makes just as much sense as banning sketchbooks, novels, and magazines. The ban is already implemented during the periods of the day where personal devices are a problem; why install it when it really isn’t necessary? Personal devices can’t distract students during lunch because there’s nothing to be distracted from. Phones are far from the first distraction in the classroom. Before smartphones, students would pass notes, sketch, or sneak a comic inside their textbook. No special policies were implemented

STAFF EDITORIAL:

The new Total Phone Ban by ICCSD won’t accomplsih anything signicifant and takes away a useful resources from students for these ‘distractions’, so why for the phone? Besides smartphones being pretty addictive, there is actually another issue: Test scores. Since COVID-19, test scores in high schools have hit historic lows. In fact, it’s the lowest overall score in generations, and many have been pointing to screens as a reason for the drop. Since federal funding is dependent on test scores, it’s an issue that must be addressed. ICCSD points to phones as the problem, but is this really the case? After all, as mentioned above, there have been plenty of distractors over the years. Why are phones any different? It seems more likely the dropping test scores are caused by things like chronic absenteeism, grade inflation, and just a general disinterest in class. And that’s ignoring the fact that standardized tests aren’t a very good form of measuring intelligence or understanding. When it comes to test scores, phones aren’t the main problem, but rather, the test taker. On an average week, it is unlikely that a student doesn’t hear a teacher suggest that they take a photo of the board or assignment. Why? Because phones, applied in

certain ways, can be very useful. At The Little Hawk, photos and videos are sometimes taken with phones, interviews are conducted using phones as recording devices, and are also used to post on the social media platforms The Little Hawk is involved in. An all-out ban removes this useful tool, rather than allowing students to use it for certain academic purposes. Beyond that, the phone is also very useful for coordinating pick-up times, which during the frigid Iowa winters, is both a favor to the student who can wait out the cold inside the building and to the parent, who can contact their student in the case of a change of plans or emergency. In addition, laptops are also used by students often, since they tend to be better quality than the school Chromebooks. In journalism, laptops are used by many of the editors to work on newspaper pages at home. Laptops are also less laggy than the chromebooks, which may be necessary depending on the kind of work being done on the computer. Denying students their personal devices is denying them resources and tools. On a given day, the average

City High student has an hour and eleven minutes of break time, thirty minutes which are dedicated to passing periods, and the other forty-one to lunch, which doesn’t include the time it takes to walk from class to lunch and back or the time spent waiting in the lunch line. That relatively short period of time is all the break students get from school, which, depending on the circumstances, is more mentally taxing than many jobs, due to the variety of different subjects one has to study. It only makes sense that during these breaks students should have access to some kind of entertainment, something that electronic devices can offer. And sure, the argument can be made that one can always bring a book or draw, but those forms of entertainment cower in the all encompassing power of the Internet. If a student likes reading, why be limited by the books that fit in their backpack? Why not use the phone to its full potential and take advantage of its resources? Very few workplaces ban entertainment devices during break periods, which are important for students and workers alike to decompress, so why should schools? The total phone ban proposed by ICCSD would do nothing that the current policy doesn’t, and if anything, it would decrease student productivity by removing useful tools and entertainment opportunities during students’ already limited break time.

9 OPINION

THUMBS UP

GRAPHIC

BY NICOL

AS VERGA RA-VANE GAS

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

50° Weather Scholarships

Is AI Art Real Art?

YES

NO

not the means. I myself, though hat, exactly, is art? I never have and never intend to According to use AI to create art for me, strugOxford gle creating my own. Languages, the onIf you’ve seen my line dictionary used previous columns, by Google, art is many of the graphics ‘the expression or on them were made application of huusing elements from man creative skill Canva, with a few and imagination, being drawn by me typically in a visual By Nico Vergara-Vanegas and one by a friend. form such as paintWith Canva, it’s sort ing or sculpture, of like scrapbooking, producing works to be appreciated taking elements from other artists primarily for their beauty or emo- and mushing them together to cretional power.’ Some might say that, ate my own. Sound familiar? Genbecause of this definition, AI gen- erative AI does something similar, erated art cannot be art. AI, after and in fact, a well created Gen AI all, is not human, and art requires image does it better. ‘the expression of human creative I’ve said ‘well created’ a few skill and imagination.’ You don’t times now. You might be thinkput pen to paper when you make ing, ‘Nico, what exactly does that an AI do the work for you, it’s true. mean?’ This is what a badly created BUT, nowhere in the definition of Gen AI art prompt looks like: “Perart does it say that art requires a son sitting under a tree.” There’s human to do the creation of said no creativity, no imagination, no art. Just that human expression originality in a prompt like this. and human imagination must be But in a well created prompt, it’ll involved. look something like this: “Tall, A well created AI generated young boy with freckles reading a piece of art has every bit of imag- red book under a reddish willow ination of one that took years to tree with curving branches as pale create, if not the same amount of yellow, dull orange, and vivid red effort or skill. But the definition of leaves fall and lie around the base art doesn’t say anything about ar- of the tree. The tree casts a twisttistic skill- it doesn’t say anything ing shadow that merges with the about being good and sculpting, ground.” These complicated, in painting, or sketching. It says ‘cre- depth prompts often don’t work ative skill.’ AI art doesn’t hinder and require much workshopping creativity- it allows it to flourish. to get exactly what the prompter Not everyone has the ability to wants. Is this not part of the artiscreate the beautiful works of art of tic process? The more specific the artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, Da prompt, the more the Gen AI’s art Vinci, or Rembrandt, but many do is really just the manifestation of have the creativity and the imag- the prompter’s imagination. Is that ination of these art masters, just not art?

their instruction multiple times rt isn’t important because before getting the result that they it looks pretty or because want. But art is only art when it’s it’s a masternovel. Generative AI work in technical skill. is a sum of everything What makes art imit’s been fed through portant is the story it its machine learntells—how the artist ing algorithm, which expressed themselves means its perception through a different of art is reliant on medium in order to every photo it’s ever convey meaning to the seen. Unlike a human By Lily Rantanen audience. artist—who can be Like Nico said, art inspired by a slew of is human expression. His beliefs past creations and still create new, on how AI still requires imagina- unique work—AI creates art based tion aren’t entirely incorrect—gen- off of what it knows. There is notherative artificial intelligence still ing new or different about what AI requires some level of human in- makes; it’s just combining human put—but his flaw is that he never art pieces to make something that accounts for the process. Real art matches a prompt. comes from human struggle, from Consider collaging, or Nico’s failing to solve a problem—both example, scrapbooking. Although technical, like learning how to it takes previously existing artpaint, or personal, like identity— works—photos, drawings, etc.—it before finally succeeding. Art must still requires a novel hand in crecome from a human’s hand in or- ation. Here, the story and the der to be real, because that is the struggle in the art isn’t about the only way that an artist can truly creation of initial works; it’s about represent themselves and what they how the human chooses to put see. Even with significant human each piece together. The artist must direction, AI can only ever mimic first choose which images to inhuman expression, because it does clude in their final image, and then not go through struggle when it’s they must choose how to combine following a prompt. AI will nev- images together. Humans have no er know the beauty of what the part in the process of selecting and human eye sees, so instruction to combining works once they input create a “twirling ballerina paint- a command into ChatGPT, which ing in an impressionist style” will is what makes AI’s process of creatnever be able to live up to Degas’ ing “art” distinctly different from a ballerinas. human artist’s. Nico also argues that the more Art is art because it is wholly complex a human input is, the human. Taking human expression closer AI art is to becoming “real” and turning it into a machine-made art. He argues that there is human chaos can never be real art, because struggle in creating AI art, because it lacks the struggle and the story of someone might have to fine-tune the artist who created it.

W

A

College Application Finished Sleeping-in on a two-hour early-delay

THUMBS Down

New Phone Policy Budget Crisis Senioritis Sleeping-in on a normal school day

10 OPINION

By Lily Rantanen

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

DRINK UP!

By Martha Willard

Lily and Martha’s Protein Coffee Critiques

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Java House Is not a Protein House

ocal Iowa City coffee shop chain Java House has recently introduced protein-infused drinks. Finally, an option that doesn’t require Martha and I to sell our souls at massive, national chains. Thanks to my debate coach, Drew, for funding this expenditure, and thanks to Martha and I for taking one for the team and trying yet another protein coffee. Purple Haze Latte with Protein Sweet Cream Price: $10.96/20 oz Comparable drink: $6.46/20 oz Protein: 24 grams (maybe 12.5 grams in the protein milk, but we’re unsure) We ordered Martha’s go-to Java House latte—an iced Purple Haze Latte with sweet cream topping—and the muscle-maxxing version, where we substituted for both the protein sweet cream and the protein milk. The drink itself is light, refreshing, and probably not my first pick for a cold February day, but that’s neither here nor there. I also think it could have been heavier on the lavender syrup—the flavor is there, but just barely (although perhaps I am spoiled by my typical London Fogs, which have lavender too). After drinking the mess that was the Scooter’s Turtle Latte, however, the Purple Haze was highly appreciated. But we’re here to taste-test the protein, not the coffee itself, so as always, our review will ignore the rest of the drink. The taste of the protein latte itself (minus the sweet cream topping) is about

G

as comparable to the non-protein latte as the Starbucks vanilla protein latte is to its regular counterpart. Coffee is the first thing we tasted, but the protein taste wasn’t far behind, like an ex that’s always on your mind. Thankfully, it didn’t have that strange separating problem that the Starbucks drinks had. However, Java House’s protein downfall lies in its sweet cream topping. Whereas the regular sweet cream was pleasant, less sweet than Scooters’ headache-inducing marshmallow fluff, the protein sweet cream has a massive protein problem. The protein powder wasn’t fully mixed in, creating unpleasant chunks on top of the drink that were impossible to ignore. It also clung to the side of the cup, leading to a distressing visual. Even after mixing the cold foam and protein powder into the rest of the drink to try and dissolve it, we still found chunks of protein. This presents a big problem—Martha and I usually prefer our drinks to be liquid, as opposed to solid. On the plus side, at least we know that there was actually protein in the drink. Martha’s Muscle Maxxing Tips: Even though the sweet cream had chunks of protein powder, no macros were secured. So, we can’t even tell you how much protein this actually has (the barista at the counter told us there was maybe 12.5 grams in each serving of protein boosted milk? But it’s unclear). However, if you’re looking to casually boost your protein intake and support a local business (which is

PHOTO BY LILY RANTANEN

always the right choice, unless you have a Starbucks gift card), this is a great option. On the other hand, if you’re a bona fide macro tracking protein bro, like myself, Starbucks comes out on top. As well as being right down the street from the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center (CRWC), they have exact nutrition information and a plethora of sugar free options, so you know exactly how much muscle mass you’ll get and can always fit it into any dietary needs. No matter where you stand, though, do NOT get Java House’s protein

sweet cream, only the protein milk. The lumps are not worth the gains. Martha’s Rating: 6/10 (8/10 without the sweet cream) “support local businesses, but don’t get the chunky sweet cream” Lily’s Rating: 4/10 (8/10 without the sweet cream) “I literally thought the sweet cream was cookie dough at first” While the sweet cream is a no-pro(tein) no-go, we recommend the protein milk. It’s a little bit on the pricey side—$2.00 for the add-on—but it’s comparable to other options on the market, and it’s local.

Please Don’t Scoot oVer to Scooters for Their Protein Cold Foam

oing to Scooter’s Coffee feels like cheating. And it is—the Iowa City location is just down the street from my favorite independent coffee shop, Press Coffee, where they know my order (a 12 oz London fog) by heart. But, alas, as The Little Hawk’s resident protein coffee journalists, Martha and I had to try the Scooter’s protein cold foam. Luckily, we had a gift card. Turtle Latte with Sweet Cream Protein Cold Foam Price: $7.58/16 oz ($5.85 w/o cold foam) Protein: 13 g/16 oz

Most of the drinks on the Scooter’s menu sound like abominations, so we decided to dive in headfirst to the candy-crusted world and ordered the turtle latte. The cold foam isn’t included in any of their drinks, so we added it on. The cold foam was thicker than the Starbucks protein cold foam, which melted almost immediately after we received it. Remember, we’re judging the cold foam here—not the drink. It’s your prerogative if you want to order something as cursed as a turtle latte, but Martha and I can both confidently say that we’re never drinking a coffee named after a chocolate candy again.

The protein cold foam was, to be honest, a disappointment. While Starbucks’ protein cold foam was denser than their original, which was light and fluffy like a cloud, it still imitated what a cold foam should be. In contrast, the Scooter’s cold foam was more like a layer of thick cream on top of the coffee. It certainly lies more on the “sweet cream” side of the sweet cream protein cold foam spectrum than the “cold foam” side. The taste itself left a lot to be desired. We enjoyed the Starbucks cold foam because it had a subtle vanilla flavor without overpowering the drink itself, but the Scooter’s cold foam was almost too sweet

to the point of being inedible. And while the Starbucks cold foam didn’t have that telling “protein” flavor, the Scooter’s one did—despite having two grams of protein less than Starbucks. In Martha’s words, “it tastes like a marshmallow if someone added whey to it.” Martha’s rating: 5/10 “it was good if you like getting your protein in the form of marshmallow fluff ” Lily’s rating: 3/10 “too sweet” We don’t think the Scooter’s protein cold foam is good enough to justify almost an additional $2. However, we also didn’t like the coffee—maybe Scooter’s devotees enjoy the sweet cream protein cold foam.

LITTLE HAWK MOVIE PICKS

THE TRUMAN SHOW

MEAN GIRLS

DEMON SLAYERS: Infinity Castle

PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

11 CULTURE

My Favorite Cinematic Universe

I

magine trying to describe to somebody living in the 60s the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It would be near impossible to convince somebody that audiences would flock to movie after movie in one big megafranchise that’s made up of a bunch of smaller franchises all based on comic books. Lame. While it’s undeniable that the MCU kicked off a wave of new cinematic universes (as well as wannabe cinematic universes—see Universal’s “The Dark Universe”), my favorite cinematic universe started and ended in the 90s. And it’s not the type of “franchise” that one would ordinarily think of as a cinematic universe. A little while ago I purchased the Criterion box set “A Whit Stillman Trilogy: Metropolitan, Barcelona, The Last Days of Disco”. In the set are the three aforementioned films, all written and directed by Whit Stillman from 1990-1998. When I finished out the set with 1998’s The Last Days of Disco, something in the credits (following one of the all-time great endings) caught my eye. After the cast list were two subsections of the cast titled “From Metropolitan” and “From Barcelona”. This made me think back to earlier in the film. I had noticed Carolyn Farina walk through one of the shots and noticed that she was done up in a very similar fashion to how she was in Metropolitan and here the credits were; confirming that she was indeed reprising her role from Metropolitan, Audrey Rouget. She wasn’t the only one. Folks—this is my favorite cinematic universe. The WSCU. The Whit Stillman Cinematic Universe. While yes, continuity in this franchise is…loose (I am aware that actors like Chris Eigeman and Taylor Nichols play definitively different roles across three movies and Barcelona and The Last Days of Disco are both period pieces, while Metropolitan is contemporary), but all three films undeniably take place in the same universe. One need look no further than the vibes. All three films are hangout movies centered around young people’s conversations at parties, often filled with hypocrisy, empty philosophy, and over generalizations. Much like the first few MCU films, each one has a different central protagonist, despite some repeats in casting. Metropolitan, follows a young Tom Townsend (Edward

Clements, in one of his two total movies) as he becomes addicted to the night life of a Manhattan socialite. The parties in this film mostly contain people sitting down and discussing Jane Austen novels, but the core of the movie is in one of the b-plots. One of the socialites who Tom becomes acquainted with is named Audrey (Carolyn Farina) who is smitten with him from the beginning, despite his admittance that he only reads criticism of novels rather than any actual works. This soon becomes his driving force as he realizes that he’s been clueless to her feelings towards him the whole time. Also along for the ride is Tom’s “mentor”, Nick (Chris Eigeman). Even though Eigeman technically plays three different characters across the three films, all three are easily offended and love to make smart remarks about the people around them. Because of the main character’s dopey personality and relationship with a cute brunette, I’m going to declare this the Captain America: First Avenger of this trilogy. With no other basis other than I think it’s funny to compare this quippy, low-budget comedy to a multi-million dollar action flick. Onto Barcelona. Barcelona’s lead is Ted Boynton (Taylor Nichols) who’s a salesman living in the titular city around the middle of the Cold War. The film is mostly about his relationship with his cousin, the naval officer Fred (Chris Eigeman, who I’m thinking about declaring the Nick Fury of the WSCU). He and Fred’s personalities clash, but they’re undeniably a good team together. Fred is able to get Ted out of his comfort zone by taking stands against injustices, while Ted does his best to help Fred think before he speaks. Ted is also scared of the possibility that Fred might jeopardize his growing relationship with a blonde Spanish girl, Montserrat (Tushka Bergen), whom he eventually finds out is already in an open relationship with her longterm boyfriend. Barcelona is my least favorite of the three (which isn’t scathing, all of them are delightful) and that may be because of the turn towards the beginning of the third act. At this point in the story, Fred gets shot. For much of the last third of the film, Ted is in a coma in a hospital bed. His fate is in doubt! Stillman can’t quite figure out how to balance his quippy tones with these

more serious, fatalistic ones in the same way that, say, Wes Anderson is able to, so for some of Barcelona it feels as though the film’s at war with itself. One could argue that this is intentional because of the Cold War setting, but I think that might be giving the film a little too much credit. It finally comes together though, in the last ten minutes, when the film finally gets back to what it’s actually about; Ted and Fred learning to love and accept each other, warts and all. Because a snarky, dark-haired, white guy gets shot in this one, I’m going to label Barcelona as the Iron Man of the WSCU. The last of the trilogy is the culmination of many of the themes and motifs that have interested Stillman in the last couple films including the disco scenes from Barcelona. This is 1998’s The Last Days of Disco. The Last Days of Disco takes place in late 1980 just as the titular craze was coming to an end. The film’s central protagonist is a 20-something girl named Alice (Chloë Sevigny) who works at a New York magazine with her “friend” Charlotte (Kate Beckinsale). Charlotte introduces Alice to the night life and they both navigate their way through relationships as young people. The Last Days of Disco, like Barcelona, also has a tonal shift about halfway through. Although I’d argue that this shift is more effective. Here, after Alice has finally opened up sexually, she ends up with two STDs. Meanwhile, one of her acquaintances, Des (Chris Eigeman, in his least redeemable character of the three), is clearly dealing with a coke addiction while the nightclub where he works and all of their friends hang out is under investigation for criminal activities. The Last Days of Disco is able to pull off this tonal shift because of how charming it stays throughout. Sevigny is such a star and her (eventually) romantic relationship with attorney Josh (Matt Keeslar) is earnest and sincere. The disco music throughout helps keep the vibes light, as well. We’re going to call The Last Days of Disco the Avengers of the WSCU. Don’t ask me to explain it. I lost interest in doing these goofy comparisons after the last one. You might be asking “What’s the point of treating these semi-connected quirky dramedies as if they’re an inter-connected cinematic universe? Is there a point?”

by Ben Haines

GRAPHIC BY BEN HAINES

Of course there is. It’s my belief that the WSCU is the key to our future. A better one. Let me explain. This year, on December 18, 2026, the new Avengers film will come out (on the same day that Dune: Part Three is also scheduled to, but that’s too stupid of a decision to get into here). It’s titled Avengers: Doomsday and look—I generally don’t like to speculate too much about a movie before there’s even an official trailer for it yet (you can watch a bunch of stupid little teasers for it if you want), but I have a strong feeling that Doomsday is going to single-handedly kill the MCU. Its budget is reported to be over a billion dollars. Which means for it to be considered a financial success, it’ll need to gross around two billion dollars, which famously only three movies in history have ever done. Doomsday’s cast has a million names on it and none of the actors seem to really have any idea what the film is even about. I could always be proven wrong. Maybe it’ll be a hit. But I predict that it’ll be a confused, bloated mess. Perhaps because of its hundreds of characters, each one the Russo brothers will undoubtedly treat with as much self-importance as the last. There’s nothing self-important about the slight inter-connectivity in the WSCU. And somehow, that makes these movies feel bigger, not smaller. It hints at a much bigger world, beyond what we’re seeing. This is not all that different from Rian Johnson’s approach to his Knives Out movies. Each one features mostly all-new characters with Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) being the only connective thread. Instead of self-referential, these movies instead choose to hint at events that we’ll never get to see and that makes these worlds feel somehow bigger than that of billion-dollar superhero movies. This is what a cinematic universe should be. A series of movies that take place in a world that their main creative force has a love for, not an obligation to. So I don’t know about you, but maybe this December, after a screening of Dune: Part Three, instead of going right over to Avengers: Doomsday, I’ll head back home and pop in Metropolitan. I think that’ll be a welcome change of pace. Then maybe later I’ll catch Doomsday, but I bet it won’t be nearly as delightful as anything in the WSCU.

12 SPORTS THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026 BASKETBALL PROFILE

PEAKS AND VALLEYS Jack Rogers reflects on his senior season for both golf and basketball, and hints at some possiblities for picking up a third sport.

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By Rito Perez

t’s undoubtable that it takes an extreme amount of talent to be able to compete on the varsity level in two sports, but now, Jack Rogers ‘26 looks to finish out his high school athletic career playing not just two varsity sports, but three. Rogers has been most known for his golfing ability, taking the title for multiple individual and team records for City golf, perhaps the most coveted being the nine hole low record. Rogers solidified himself as one of the best golfers to ever do it at City, and he found himself in a prosperous enough position to be able to have the choice on where he would continue his golf career. Ultimately, Rogers chose Kirkwood Community College over a division one offer from both the University of Northern Iowa and Western Illinois University. Rogers also recently has received some interest from University of Stirling in Scotland. “There are some rules right now which are favorable to [JUCO] athletes, and I would have rather saved some eligibility to go to a higher level division one school, rather than possibly finishing my career at one of those places. I also really like some of my teammates and I love the coach at Kirkwood, so it was kind of a no brainer,” Rogers said. Golf is not the only place where Rogers has found success, though. He has been a pivotal part in the City men’s basketball team the past two years. Although it was not the way Rogers wanted his senior season to go for basketball, he remained someone the coaches could continue to rely on. You can always find number four with a smile on his face, supporting his teammates, and getting rowdy at any supposed “bad call”. “When I was young I always wanted to be in the NBA, but then I think I realized due to some athletic ability and height that wasn’t going to happen, so I think I had to focus on golf, but clearly it was worth it,” Rogers said. Rogers, most known for his ability to make three pointers, boasted a thirty percent three point percentage through his tenure with the Little Hawk varsity team. Perhaps even more impressive is his assist to turnover ratio, with a 2.82 ratio. The next closest on the team is a 1.42. Rogers participated in basketball for all four years of high school, and even though it his “second sport”, he has found a way to succeed. “Mentality has always been a main focus of mine. I’ve definitely been trying to focus on my attitude more after something goes wrong in basketball, but it’s almost impossible to not have to stay strong in the head when golfing if you want to succeed. Basketball is harder because it’s not just me out there, but I still try to stay positive, ”

Rogers said. Now, his days with organized basketball are coming to an end. On senior night, Rogers made a statement, dropping 12 points going 4/7 on three pointers. However, this may not be the last time we see Rogers put on a City High uniform. While it remains a question mark, Rogers has the opportunity to try out for the varsity tennis team, and is acclaimed by people he has played with, including current and former players. Rogers’ story is compelling not just because of the accolades and statistics, but the consistency. Across two sports, in two extremely high athletic levels and different athletic environments, the quiet focus of the golf course, the fast-paced physicality of the basketball court, and now potentially the precision of tennis. Rogers has carried himself with the same competitive edge and team-first approach. It is a combination that has earned him the respect of coaches and teammates across City High’s athletic department. While this would be Rogers’ first season playing organized tennis, he does have experience. Rogers and his close friend and City High graduate, Brendan Lestina, took City High’s notorious tennis tournament, the Nacho Cup, home in 2024. It remains a question mark if he will come out, but it’s believed that Rogers would have a shot to make the varsity team. The tennis team, coming off a competitive season, with two players in the state tournament, would welcome the depth. If Rogers earns a spot, he would join a roster with not many varsity returners, and varsity tennis players believe the transition would be smoother than most might expect. “I think he could probably secure anywhere between the fourth and sixth spot on the team. He could definitely do solid against the competition we play, he’s a really solid player and it would be helpful for the team,” varsity tennis player Lucas Miller said. Throughout his entire athletic career, Rogers has had nothing but high praises from his coaches and his teammates. “He’s gotten a lot better throughout the past couple years, and definietly got a lot taller. I’ve been playing with Jack since I was in like first grade, and I’ve seen a lot of different versions of him and the way he plays, but it’s always been fun to play alongisde him. It’s a little sad our days playing together are coming to an end, but we had a lot of memorable times playing together” teammate Jack Lampe ‘26 said.

ABOVE: Jack Rogers taking a wedge to get out of the sand in the teams meet this year at Pleasant Valley Golf Course. PHOTO BY ROSE NKUMU

Rogers takes a three in the teams game against Prairie, which the team went on to lose. PHOTO BY ROSE NKUMU

For more coverage on City High tennis and basketball visit thelittlehawk.com Rogers prepares himself for the final stretch of the game against the teams win against Liberty PHOTO BY ROSE NKUMU

THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

13 SPORTS

ABOVE: Dominic Roe ‘26 getting ready for an event in last years Forewald Coleman relays. New head coach Kevin Johnson posing with a runner last year before joining the track. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY HIGH TRACK

NEW FACE, SAME RACE By Rito Perez

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ver the past couple of years for boys track, the team has faced some adversity, and has had admittedly lackluster seasons. Now, legendary head coach Mike Moore left the team last season to spend more time with his family after having years of success at City, including a state championship, and most recently third place at state in 2023. Filling in for Coach Moore is the new head coach Kevin Johnson, who has mobilized his efforts to recruit new students for track. Despite the new head coach, most of the strong assistant coaches on the team have been retained, which are a huge part in the team’s community and culture. “My focus is not on last year; my concentration is on this year. Each year is different, and challenges come and go. As long as I bring my energy and enthusiasm, I hope it inspires everyone else to do the same and have a successful season,” head coach Kevin

Johnson said. With this new fresh start, and an extremely strong senior class, the team has extreme upside to make a run in Johnson’ s inaugural season. Most notably for the seniors are veterans Linus McRoberts, Dominic Roe, and Raphael Etuma. Roe is committed to Wartburg for hurdles, one of the most esteemed division three track programs in the country, and Etuma is committed to Hawkeye Community College for shot put and discus. Etuma’s older brother, Michael, went on a similar course, originally committing to Indian Hills Community College, and after two years of eligibility, he transferred to Iowa State’s track and field program. Etuma also broke his older brother’s record in shot put last year. McRobert’s future in the sport is currently uncertain after this season, with no current plans to run in college, it’s possible this could mark his last season of organized racing. There are many other members of the team which have helped succeed greatly, including a variety

of upperclassmen which help the team have perpetual success. Ivan Shinkunas ‘26, who is committed to Hawkeye CC alongside Etuma, was an extremely vital asset of the team last year, with his personal best being only four inches shorter than Tyler Rindels ‘25, who was key in the teams throwing success at the two spots. Distance running is also backed up by some extreme depth, with runners like Max McDowell ‘26, Henry Vandeberg ‘27, David Randall ‘27 and Emmett Palmberg ‘27 all being crucial to scoring points in their distance solo events and relays. The aforementioned group of juniors will be decisive to the team’s success, and there is not much doubt after the cross country season they all boasted. Damari Lacy ‘26 has also found success with the Little Hawks in track after transferring from West High. Committed to St. Ambrose University for football, Lacy boasted a 22-01.75 personal best in long jump last season. Marshall Sheldon ‘28 is deeply important to the team’s success, leading the team’s times in

the 400 meter hurdles, beating the next closest by more than three seconds. However, the team did lose a few notable runners this past season due to some foreseen, and some unforeseen circumstances. Bernard Grant graduated from City last year after winning state High Jump, which helped the team score a huge amount of points at state. Dawson Kahl ‘27 transferred during the summer to Prairie High for football. Kahl had the second fastest time for the 100 meter dash, with 11.18, and only second to another graduate, Jermaine Holmes who boasted a 11 flat sprint. Adan Carbajal ‘26 exited the team this year after transferring to West High. Carbajal has consistently battled injuries throughout his time with the Little Hawks, and now is on the Trojan Track team. Carbajal was a piece very crucial to the teams hurdle relays, which have been consistently great in scoring the team points. Now, despite much adversity faced in the offseason, the Hawks were able to acquire a

strong transfer in Savion Miller ‘27 from Regina. Miller is a three star recruit at running back for football, but also dabbles in track, specifically in long jump and the one hundred meter dash, which will help the team fill the hole left with the departure of Kahl and Holmes. “Honestly, I never worry about adversity. My primary concern is the athletes who show up, and I focus on giving them my full attention to help them develop in track and field. Those who care will be there every day, and the ones who don’t won’t stress me at all. As a coach, it’s not just about having the best athletes on the team—though that would certainly be helpful—it’s about creating a team that works hard together and supports one another in achieving success. This collaborative spirit can build a strong program, and when others see and feel that energy, they will be motivated to show up as well, “ Johnson said. The track season is set to kick off with their annual indoor meet in the UNI-Dome on March 9.

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THE LITTLE HAWK - MARCH 2026

ABOVE: Tessa Driscoll ‘26 runs to celebrate victory over cross town rival Liberty High. The Little Hawks fell short in their first meeting against the Bolts. Driscoll averaged nearly 13 points per game on the season. PHOTO BY ROSE NKUMU

Tessa Driscoll Joins 1000 Point Club By Jack Rogers & Coden Kurtz

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oing through her pre-shot routine, Tessa Driscoll ‘26 stared down the free throw, a shot she had made thousands of times before. But this one was different. Entering the game with 999 career points at City High, Driscoll stood at the line with history within reach. She started her pre shot routine. The crowd quieted. She spun the ball in her hands and released it. Moments later, the ball dropped cleanly through the net. The City High crowd erupted. “I had no idea I was one away,” Driscoll said. “I knew I needed three points to pass it, but when I got to the line I was just exhausted and focused on making both shots. It wasn’t until after I made the first shot and my teammates pushed me that I realized. Then I looked up and saw my family holding signs, and it hit me.” The milestone capped off a career defined by consistant growth and pleanty of scoring. A four-year varsity starter, Driscoll has compiled a 46-44 career record as a Little Hawk, including an impressive 32-13 mark over her junior and senior seasons. She made an immediate impact as a freshman, scoring 229 points. As a sophomore, she elevated her game, pouring in 297 points in just 23 contests. She followed that with 252 points as a junior, entering her senior season with 778 career points and reaching 1,000

points was in reach. “It wasn’t really on my mind until toward the end of the season,” Driscoll said. “I kind of knew I would get there at some point, but I didn’t realize how close I was until people told me.” This winter, Driscoll has helped lead City High to a 16-6 regular-season record, averaging nearly 13 points per game while also getting her teammates involved with 67 assists. The Little Hawks have remained ranked inside the top 10 all season and earned a No. 2 seed in their substate bracket a reflection of both individual and team growth. “We’ve had a really good season, probably the best I’ve had here,” Driscoll said. “In the past, we lost a lot of close games. This year, we’ve won almost all of them. We’re feeling confident going into the postseason.” Her high school career may be nearing its end, but her basketball journey is far from over. Driscoll has committed to play Division 1 basketball at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. She also had interest from programs such as Yale University and Fairfield University before choosing the Tommies. “I went on a visit and immediately fell in love with the campus and the atmosphere,” Driscoll said. “The team was so welcoming. It’s always been a goal of mine to play Division I basketball, and finding a place like St. Thomas means everything.”

TOP: Tessa Driscoll ‘26 shoots a freethrow in their second playoff game. The team lost 51-37 in the game to go the state tournament. Driscoll had 11 points in the game. BOTTOM: Tessa Driscoll ‘26 checks out of her last home game of her highschool career. Driscoll was one of three seniors recognized on senior night. PHOTOS BY ROSE NKUMU

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ATHLETE PROFILE

A NEW HOME

UNBREAKABLE FEMALE ATHLETE: Rachel Haack commits to Colorado State University. Rachel Haack, an all-state thrower has decided to continue her throwing career at Colorado State.

By Tessa Driscoll When Rachel Haack ‘26 was in 5th grade, she signed up for the shot put event on track and field day. The 5th grader won the competition, with a distance of around 22 feet. Ever since that day at Hoover Elementary, Haack knew that shot put was something she wanted to pursue. This newfound passion was encouraged by Haack’s greatest role model: her grandmother. “My grandma competed in the shot put during her high school years, the 1960s. It’s crazy to think that even though there were many challenges with women’s sports, she competed anyway and was good at it too. My grandma passed away this last track season, so it’s been hard without her but I know she would be proud of where I’m at today. She always used to say, ‘You beat my shot put record of 32’4!’” Haack’s love for the sport has only grown over time. “I love throwing because it feels so powerful. You feel on top of the world after watching your implementation go so far. I also just love it because it takes personal accountability. At the end of the day, it’s just your body and your mind with the implement,” Haack said. Haack stands at 6 feet tall, and though her strength and height help her perform well in the ring, it’s her constant dedication to her craft that has made her the athlete she is today. There are so many countless hours of training that people do not see from the outside. I can only get so far with that natural talent, but I am super motivated to get better and to practice— which is what helps me compete at a high level,” Haack said. Lifting is one of the most important components that helped Haack increase her strength and her craft. “During the off-season, I spend hours in the weight room. I lift 4 days a week, about an hour long each day. Lifting is super important in the training process because you have to get stronger to compete with other people performing at a high level,” Haack said. As her high school career progressed, Haack began to reach out to college coaches. These coaches, impressed by Haack’s skill and athleticism, were delighted to hear from her. Haack had interest from a plethora of schools. “I remember having so many phone calls. I briefly talked to coaches from Fresno St, Penn St, Vanderbilt, Princeton, New Mexico St, and Michigan St. I ended up visiting Miami Ohio, New Mexico State, Michigan State, Colorado State, and Drake University,” Haack said. When Haack went on her official visit to Colorado State Unversity in Fort Hayes, CO, she and her parents were picked up at the Denver airport by coach Bedard, the head coach of Colorado State track and field. Haack had never stepped foot in Colorado before, but once she did, she was immediately in awe. When Coach Bedard took Haack to meet the team at lunch, Haack immediately felt at ease. “I was greeted with excited and welcoming faces. I had never felt so special before. Throughout the rest of the trip, we toured campus and the facilities and I couldn’t get enough of it. I couldn’t get over how personal and raw everyone was. Especially the girls on the throws team– I really bonded with them and I fit right in,” Haack said. Haack and the team spent the night eating ice cream and bonding. When she returned to the hotel, Haack recalls murmuring before her head hit the pillow, “I really want to go here.” A few weeks later, it was decided. Haack called Coach Bedard and told him the good news. “He was so happy. The coaching staff at Colorado State knows what they’re doing. Coach Bedard takes people that get overlooked that are undercoached and underrecruited to tough athletes, Olympians even,” Haack said. Haack strives to reach her greatest potential during her time at Colorado State. “I want to have an amazing experience where I grow as a person and make a lot of memories and close bonds. But, I also know that I am driven and want to succeed,” Haack

THROWIN QUEEN: UNBREAKABLE FEMALE ATHLETE: Rachel Haack ‘26 takes photos on her visit to Colorado State. PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL HAACK

said. “Specifically, I would love to get into the high 50 feet for shot put, the 170-180 feet range in discus, and succeed in the hammer and weight throw. My ultimate goals would be to qualify for conferences, regionals, and hopefully the NCAA’s. Towards the end of my throwing career, I think qualifying for the Olympic trials would be in my grasp and that’s a high goal I would like to see accomplished.” But before Haack takes on the college level, she still has one last season as a Little Hawk. Haack has been throwing shot and discus for the past four years at City High, and has “loved her time” spent with the track and field program. “I enjoy competing in track and field every year at City High, and I’m met with bittersweet feelings about my departure. I just love track and field in general because there are many different people with different qualities and strengths who all play a part in one big purpose, one team, yet individualized,” Haack said. During her last season at City High, Haack says she wants to “go out with a bang, but also enjoy [herself ].” Unsurprisingly, Haack has goals for her remaining time at City High. “I plan to beat the shot put school record of 42 ‘8” and beat my own discus record of 141’ 6.” My distance goals this year would be around 45-46 feet in shot put and around 155 feet in discus,” said Haack. If Haack had to give a piece of advice to a 5th grade girl wondering if she could ever compete at Haack’s level, she says it would b e

to “work hard.” “Force yourself to get out of bed when you don’t want to. Go to that extra early morning practice or early morning lift. When you’re at a place that you feel good about, you will feel more accomplished knowing that you put in real work to get there, rather than just being there because you’re naturally good at something.”