The Dispatch, Vol. 38, Issue #6 5/21/26

D

Who's who for Who's who?

Senior ceremony allows teachers to honor students who have left their mark on Bowie Every year, Bowie holds a special tradition that allows teachers to recognize seniors who have made a lasting impact throughout their four years at Bowie. Students are selected for their unique qualities and personality making them stand out among their peers. This contest is called Who’s Who, and the students who are selected get their portrait hung in the library. Teachers are able to nominate their students each year to give them a chance to be voted for the final group of seniors. Teacher and content interventionist, Wendy Uzzle has a large role in these nominations and makes this recognition possible for seniors. “The Who's Who award recognizes 24 outstanding seniors who have made a deep impact on our campus,” Uzzle said. “They have set themselves apart by breaking records, starting new programs, changing the direction of clubs or programs, or as amazing leaders.” Although the nomination and voting process has changed over the years, the award has always focused on recognizing students who make a strong impact on the Bowie community. “The award was created the first year Bowie was open, and has been the award that only faculty decide on. It is given regardless of grades or academics,” Uzzle said. “So it is open to all students. The nomination and decision process has changed over the years, but the goal has always been for faculty to nominate, vote for and decide the winners.” Senior Roman Jacobs was a recipient of the Who’s Who award this year. He has found pride in the traits he possesses which have gotten him here “Being nice to everyone, being open minded for sure and not judging people at all and making an effort to be nice to everyone,” Jacobs said. “I always make an effort to communicate with others and ask how their day is as well as keeping the school really clean, and I always try to be a leader for others whether it's working hard in sports or just working hard in the classroom.” After graduating high school at the end of May, Jacobs has plans to further his education overseas. “After I graduate I'm hoping to go overseas and study business administration, so that's my definite goal right now,” Jacobs said. “I just applied to a school in Prague so hopefully I get in there.” Another recipient of the Who’s Who award this year was senior Joaquin Flores, a student who has made a strong impact at Bowie through his involvement and connections with others. “I believe I had the honor of being recognized with the award from the contributions and impact I’ve had at Bowie throughout my time here,” Flores said. “A key takeaway that I take pride in was my connection to my teachers I’ve had throughout my time at Bowie. I’ve learned many things from them that I will take on with me, and I don’t take any of it for granted. I am extremely grateful for having these people in my life.” As Flores looks back on the impact and relationships he built during his time at Bowie, he is now preparing to take those experiences with him into the next chapter of his future. “After graduating this spring, I will be attending Purdue in the fall,” Flores said. “I will be majoring in engineering with the hopes of declaring for Aero/Astro engineering.” STORY BY Reese Walker

INSIDE:

NEWS Community campaign event organized to raise Child Abuse Awareness pg. 2

PHOTO BY Isadora Parra

FEATURE Teacher David Van Newkirk taught kids in Ghana from 2000 to 2002 pg. 4 PHOTO BY Shane Ferguson

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

SPORTS Softball advanced to the third round of playoffs but lost in a close game pg. 6

ENTERTAINMENT Asian American Alliance Club hosted a ping pong tournament pg. 3

PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

PHOTO BY Thia Betts

Vol. 38, Issue 6 www.thedispatchonline.net James Bowie High School 4103 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX, 78749

Pride in Publishing

A new era for Bulldog Nation Bailey Middle School principal Bradley Lancaster transitions to Bowie Peyton Dorsey News Editor An email was sent out from AISD to James Bowie High School students, families, and staff on April 29 announcing the freshly appointed principal of the school was Bradley Lancaster. This email announcement was shortly followed by a letter from Lancaster himself, in which he introduced himself and expressed his excitement about taking over the position previously held by Mark Robinson. “I am honored to serve as the next principal of Bowie High School. Joining a community with such a strong tradition of excellence, pride, and dedication to student success is both a privilege and a responsibility I value deeply,” Lancaster said. “I am excited for the opportunity to support and serve each of you as we continue building on that tradition together.” Lancaster is not new to the South Austin public school community, as he previously served as principal of one of Bowie’s feeder schools, Bailey Middle School. Before Bailey, Lancaster held various positions at Akins High School, including special education teacher, department chair, assistant principal, and associate principal. Having grown up near the area, Lancaster stated that being a part of this community is of high importance to him. “I’ve been in the area for a long, long time, and I am super excited to lead Bowie,” Lancaster said. “I know there is going to be plenty of time for me to connect with everyone in the community and I am looking forward to that.” Lancaster hosted a meet and greet on May 4 in the Starlight Theatre, which was open to all staff, students, and families at Bowie. This event was designed to give a personal introduction to Bowie’s new principal. While Lancaster was speaking, he expressed his philosophy of his three big beliefs: relationships, opportunities, and accountability. “In order to move an entire campus this big, it really starts with that relationship piece,” Lancaster said. “You’ll see me around for a little bit, so please

FIRST MEETING: New Principal Bradley Lancaster delivers his opening address to the community following his recent transfer to Bowie. He shared his vision for the upcoming academic year after moving from Bailey Middle School. PHOTO BY Izzy Maes

come up and say hello.” Opportunity for students was a large speaking point of the evening, in which Lancaster shared his view of giving back to students, whether it be with field trips or other events. “Academics, career, social opportunities, all of those things are very important to me. It’s okay for kids to have fun,” Lancaster said. “Sometimes we forget that when we get stuck in our routines, but it’s a part of our job as educators to make sure we're giving these kids advice and helping them through these tough times.” Lastly, accountability. Lancaster emphasized everyone on campus holding each other accountable. This doesn’t mean students getting in trouble for breaking rules, he spoke to staff as well and encouraged teachers to hold him accountable when they feel necessary. “Just because I’ll be leading this thing doesn’t give me a pass, you hold me accountable and I’ll hold our kids,

teachers, and staff accountable,” Lancaster said. “It’s not a bad thing to hold people accountable, and it doesn’t have to be rude and scary.” Coming into such a large campus like Bowie means coming into a lot of responsibility. Seasoned staff and those who know the ins and outs of the school are ready to help, especially Academic Director Kaylin Brett. “I’m very excited about the transition in leadership, anytime there is a new principal that comes in, there is also a new opportunity to make changes,” Brett said. “Knowing the history of Bowie and having an understanding of the reasons behind some things will allow me to support Mr. Lancaster as he takes over this role.” Brett has served as interim principal of Bowie during times when Robinson was on leave. Having experience in this role will allow her to help guide Lancaster in moments he may need support. With this transition in leadership,

students may expect some changes to Bowie in the coming school year. “The biggest issue I expect with this transition is that we’re going to try and tighten up on rules a bit, especially on tardies which are a huge problem for this campus,” Brett said. “I expect we’ll see a bit of push-back from students, but really we’re just trying to enforce the rules and assign consequences while being consistent.” Lancaster’s past students from Bailey are currently walking the halls of Bowie. Those who have already had him as a principal will be seeing a familiar face in August once school returns for the 2026-2027 school year. Sophomore Addison Fey recounted her positive experiences with Lancaster during her middle school years. “I think Mr. Lancaster will be a great next principal for Bowie,” Fey said. “He really cares for his students and I think the support he shows will really help our school thrive.”

Inside look into STUCO presidential elections Sydney Murphy News Editor

The Bowie Student Council elections took place on April 28, when students were emailed a link to submit their votes for class president. The candidates campaigned for weeks in preparation for voting day, from hanging posters on the wall, to speaking with students directly to encourage them to vote. Results were released the following day, and the Bowie presidential winners were, sophomore Jordan Butler and junior Carter Lax. According the student council sponsor teacher, Alejandro Garcia, the STUCO election voting is multitiered using the student votes, teacher votes, and staff input. The candidates campaigned with teachers and then the presidential candidates went through an interview process on several questions about being president. “The role of the student council presidents is important since they help facilitate the activities that we're responsible for and in charge of throughout the school year,” Garcia said. “Their job is to be an extension of me, to know what I know, and they can help carry out all the different tasks.” Leadership experience and involvement in school organizations played a role in preparing the candidates for the position. Both presidents said they hope to use their experience to guide the Student Council next year. “I joined STUCO at the beginning of this year, I just really thought that I could do really well leading it,” Butler said. “I've been in a lot of leadership positions before, I was president of NJHS in 8th grade at Gorzycki Middle School so I have experience in run-

NEWS 1, 2, ENTERTAINMENT 3 FEATURE 4 , 5

ning.” Creating a stronger sense of community was a common goal throughout the campaign process. Improving the overall student experience was another focus shared by the new leadership team. “I wanted to allow people to enjoy school more by strengthening the community and making what I can out of the experience,” Lax said. “Most importantly I want to act as the voice of the students to teachers and administration” Strong communication and leadership skills were important qualities considered during the election process. School officials believe the new presidents will continue developing these strengths throughout the year. “Both of our presidents have charisma and have strong ideals in wanting to be a leader,” Garcia said. “They're very personable, friendly, and willing to grow in the ways of this organization will push them to grow.” According to Butler, he wants to get a lot of feedback from students and teachers about what they can do differently and just make it easy to do. He suggested that Google Forms would be a good way for students to share their opinion about what changes should

SPORTS 6, 7 PHOTO ESSAY 6 REVIEW 9

happen around Bowie. “One of STUCO's biggest problems right now is that a lot of people don't know that the things we do are happening, " Butler said. “I want to use social media, and hang posters in a lot of different places, like the athletic and fine arts buildings, because I don't see as many there, and I feel like a lot of people will see them more in those areas.” Increasing awareness about the student council activities is one of the priorities for next year. Efforts to improve communication across different areas of campus are already being discussed. "They are doing a great job of communicating their plans with me, in fact, we have already had several conversations so far in the last couple of weeks since the elections, about what our plans are, what we've done, how can we make it better, how can we improve, what their vision is for next year,” Garcia said. “We're already putting those ideas in place before this year even ends.” Planning for the upcoming school year has already started through meetings and discussions about new ideas. Several goals and improvements are currently being considered before the

COMMENTARY 10, 11 SENIOR GOODBYES 12

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end of the semester. “Jordan and I will work together constantly to ensure that everything that comes from student council works to improve the school in one way or another,” Lax said. “We are going to work well together and be open with our collaboration.” According to Butler, before they ran, they answered an interview question of who they would want co-president to be and they both said, each other. They didn’t plan for it, they just answered honestly. “We work really well together, because we each have what we're good at,” Butler said. “We both know the whole organization and we have the same vision of just constantly changing and trying to make STUCO the best it can be.” The partnership between the two presidents developed throughout the election process and campaign season. Their shared goals for student council contributed to working well together. “I decided to run for president instead of vice president because I knew I could have a bigger impact as president,” Lax said. “I'm glad I ran this year since I will be graduating next year, so I am excited that I can spend my last year leaving an impact on Bowie.” As the school year approaches its end, attention is already turning toward plans for next year. The new student council leadership hopes to build on current ideas and continue improving student involvement at Bowie. "We are constantly changing, and evolving, and just things are different every single year,” Butler said. “We are going to facilitate that, get to know everyone, and lead the program in the right direction.”

2 NEWS

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

AISD budget woes keep getting worse

The district expects to make major reductions and cuts to meet shortfall Thia Betts Dispatch Reporter

operating expenses in its general fund, but board members voted to lower that percentage to 15% from 2024-2027. Austin Independent School District (AISD) is “I definitely think the CTE programs are projecting a $181 million budget gap for the next where budget cuts are affecting students the school year according to the AISD website. Acmost, and especially with fine arts classes as cording to the Austin American-Statesman, the well, " sophomore Zoe Macias said. “Because of district plans to cut over 200 positions. There are the new schedule changes, basically all the elecfears of cutting electives, teachers, and programs. tive teachers are now having to take time out of As the 2026-27 school year approaches, budtheir scheduling periods to teach classes. I think get reductions result in major changes to Bowie. this will hinder the students' abilities to be more Students and teachers wonder what these budget creative and have more time with projects.” cuts could mean for the next school year. “I think According to Austin Current, more than 3,000 it's going to affect students the most. Teachers students left the district this year which is a key second most. factor for cuts towards teachers. According to I think the reason we're in this business is AISD, the district is working to adjust school to support the students,” Biology teacher James attendance to make sure each school has a balDammann said. “I think there are going to be anced amount of students and is implementing fewer teachers. A lot of qualified, certified teachthe boundary realignment process. The boundary ers are going to be leaving the teaching field, realignment process’s objective is to strengthen that'll leave the students with either uncertified neighborhood schools and is responsible for or lesser qualified instructors.” school attendance zones. The district stated “Math, Science, Social Studies, and English they have planned teachers would have the same course load,” $73.8 million in reDammann said. “People that teach non-core ductions at the central classes would be asked to teach an extra class offices and department without extra compensation which is unfortureductions which nate.” includes executive Budget cuts are scheduled to impact many cuts, historical reducclasses, programs, and electives. Participants of tions, and additional different activities worry about the funds that proposals. They have they rely on to put on theatre performances, after JAMES DAMMANN also identified $33.9 school clubs, and students fear their ability to Biology Teacher million in campus level continue their activity in general. reductions, and they “It will be harder to have good shows in theanticipate another $45 million in revenue from atre if we need certain set pieces and props that real estate sales. we can’t afford because of budget cuts,” sopho“I think the budget cuts are happening bemore Kate Gray said. “Also, since we do so many cause of this recapture policy, where they take shows, I think it will be difficult to do as many as money from different school districts,” Damwe do with less budget.” mann said. “They're taking a ton of money from According to CBS Austin, the final budget AISD and giving it to other districts which is approval by the AISD Board of Trustees will be hurting AISD.” on June 18. CBS Austin The state's recapture policy, describes possibilities of also known as Robin Hood, is a reducing special education I think it's going to mandate that requires wealthand bilingual teachers ier districts to send their propplanning time and removing affect students the erty tax revenues to the state to librarian and TA positions. most, then teachers redistribute. AISD collects over The district is trying to find $1.4 billion in revenue but has other ways to minimize the second. The reason to send $600 million to $800 amount of cuts necessary. we're in this business million to the state annually “I think that parents according to the AISD website. and parent boards will have is to support students. “I think budget cuts are defito chip in a lot more than nitely very scary because a lot before because of budget of the programs that are getting cuts,” Macias said. “I also Biology teacher cuts are classes like theater and think that usually for exart programs and those are so tracurriculars, you already important,” senior Ellie Nowlin have to pay a fair share fee, said. “I'm worried that they’ll I think that fee will also rise go downhill in the next few years.” with budget cuts.” AISD is working towards stabilizing funds by According to AISD’s staffing and ratios planmaking severe cuts across the board. According ning time overview located on their website, Year to KXAN Austin, AISD hopes to identify $131 One (2026-27) will include band 1 campuses million in cuts before the budget is approved on teacher ratios remaining the same, band 2 camJune 18. According to Austin Current, AISD’s puses remaining the same with exceptions, while policy calls for maintaining at least 20% of band 3 and 4 campuses will have changed ratios.

ART BY Thia Betts

"

James Dammann

Bands are academic and social ratings based on academic achievements and standardized test scores, Bowie is in band 1. “I think it'll affect everyone, including the admin, teacher, parents, and families at home,” Macias said. “I think it will harm students in the long run, just with grades and such, because teachers won't be as harsh with grading, or they won't be as lenient with grading. Because they will only have one period to plan with the schedule changes.” The district is closing 10 school campuses. These campuses include Bedichek Middle School, Martin Middle School, Barrington Elementary, Sunset Valley Elementary, and six other

elementary schools. “I don’t think budget cuts are good for anything,” Gray said. “I think that they will leave a very large negative impact.” The district’s leadership team is still discussing further options and the AISD Board of Trustees holds regular meetings to discuss budget issues. According to the AISD website, the district plans to continue to be transparent about what the following year entails. “They have to decide what things are getting cut and what things aren't going to get cut,” Gray said. “It's hard because they're putting departments against each other instead of all departments working together.”

Blue Out Bowie spreads school spirit and awareness Eliza Williams Dispatch Reporter

Starting in and all throughout April, Texas recognizes Child Abuse Awareness Month. All around the state, organizations and businesses coordinate events, fundraisers, and campaigns to educate others and get their support to help children out there who are suffering from abuse. Schools also participate in creating fundraisers of their own, James Bowie High School being an example. On April 24, Bowie High School took part in what was called “Blue Out Bowie." On that day students and staff are encouraged to wear blue to raise awareness as well as contribute donations to the Austin Center for Child Protection, a nationally accredited non-profit advocacy center that is directly involved in the investigation of crimes against children. The tradition, specifically picked and led by U.S. History teacher Alejandro Garcia, had started in 2013, but stopped during COVID, and as of 2026, it is back again. “Child abuse awareness was chosen because in 2013 I led PALS, which focuses on mentoring kids,” Garcia said.

“Since we worked with kids all the time, it made sense to have a child focused activity.” PALS, Peer Assistance Leadership and Service is an organization that exists in high schools across the nation, where students go and work with kids in elementary school and middle school to help them build friendships, confidence, and social skills. For Blue Out Bowie PALS students played a crucial role in setting up and organizing. “One thing people might not realize about fundraisers, is what goes into all the background, like planning,” PALS junior Jayden Pratt said. “You have to make sure the idea’s brought up to the school, make sure that it gets approved, and make sure you have all the products necessary to do what you’re doing.” The PALS were told a month in advance about the fundraiser, and along with the help of Garcia and the PALS teacher, Jacqueline Gonzalez, as well as Student Council, the school came together to help create the event students got to see. “Activities like this can’t be done without students embracing the idea, promoting it, and participating in it,” Garcia said.

GIVING BACK TOGETHER: Students gather around the PALS table to receive cookies during Blue Out Bowie. Along with handing out treats, PALS collected donations for the Center for Child Protection in Austin. PHOTO BY Isadora Parra

BLUE RETURNS: PALS students hand out cookies to students wearing blue during the Blue Out Bowie event. After not being held for several years, the tradition returned this year to raise awareness for Child Abuse Awareness Month.

“They helped make this year so successful.” Many of the students helped out with the fundraiser, having different roles. They did anything from helping donate supplies, make signs, hand out cookies, and get other students excited. “I donated school supplies myself, as well as helped hand out cookies to people in the courtyard, dancing in the pit and having a great time,” senior Lennon Bres said. “But knowing that I did my part to help those in need was the most rewarding part of helping.” Some of the volunteers were pleasantly surprised with how the event unfolded. They saw how students can contribute to their community.

“It’s been great to see a community so willing to give and help out,” Bres said. “You don’t always see the good in people in everyday life, but being a part of something like this really showed how great our community at Bowie is.” Besides simply just knowing about the cause, Pratt hopes that students' attention is brought to the importance for the cause as a whole and how much work students are putting into it. “I hope it brought awareness to the students that this is a cause they should be looking out for,” Pratt said. “Since it’s supporting children who have been abused or sexually assaulted. We’re supporting them and trying to give back to them.

That’s where all our donations and everything goes.” A lot of people participated by wearing blue and making donations of school supplies and toiletries, which were the main activity for the fundraiser. The supplies were dropped off at the Austin Center, and Garcia notes it as one of the most rewarding parts of the event. “It's most rewarding seeing the faces of the workers at the Austin Center for Child Protection when we bring in all of our donations to benefit the kids they help,” Garcia said. Pratt noted that most students don't know all the facts when it comes to child abuse, and that this fundraiser is a good way to educate them on just what awareness is being

raised for. “It’s an important cause because it’s happening to a lot of kids that we probably don’t even realize,” Pratt said. “So many children go through abuse and they are defenseless, and it’s important to support them because they probably don’t even know how to help themselves.” Overall, Garcia believes there is much students can take away from helping out with events such as this. “It’s important to do our part to help out however we can when an opportunity arises to assist others,” Garcia said. “It’s always the right time to do the right thing, assisting others in need is one of life’s greatest joys."

ENTERTAINMENT 3 THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 THE DISPATCH

Heller Awards honors high schools Thoroughly Theater End of year banquet

Bowie students go through intense audition and rehearsal process Gracie Ruland Entertainment Editor

Singing, dancing, and hard work are just a couple of the characteristics that three Bowie students, Preston Withrow, Mary Jensen, and Mila Maxon, were required to have in their difficult rehearsal process for the national Heller Awards. The national heller awards took place at Bass Concert Hall on May 6 and consisted of multiple awards and performances from the Impact Arts select ensemble. Although this was all fun, getting into the select ensemble was no easy task. “I got into the select ensemble by first filling out an application online that had my conflicts and just my resume and stuff about me. Then I had to submit two videos of me singing, MARY JENSEN each about Sophomore one to one and a half minutes long and then also perform a monologue and record a video of me dancing to a song from newsies from a teach through video,” Jensen said. “I also had to record a two minute video about why I wanted to be in the select ensemble and why my passion for theater was strong. Once these three Bowie students went through this rigorous audition process, they immediately had to jump into a difficult and long rehearsal process. This process may not seem like a big task to those who just watch the Hellers, but the prep and length of the workdays were actually a major part of this process. “To prepare for the Hellers, we spent really long days in rehearsal studios and trying to make the numbers we were performing as clean as possible,” Withrow said. “The preparation for the Heller Awards was very intense but fun. At least three times a week we

BACKSTAGE: Preston Withrow and Mila Maxon stand together as they get ready to perform at the Heller Awards. Maxon and Withrow got to put on multiple fun costumes, bond with their select ensemble members, and rehearse for their dance performances. PHOTO COURTESY OF Preston Withrow

would rehearse until about 10 each night and work through numbers, cleaning and choreographing. We learned many different songs in just a couple months, and we spent a lot of time working on developing our characters and a story.” Maxon describes this, although difficult, process to be necessary and important because the final product needed to be perfected. “The things leading up to the performance are very important like spacing rehearsal, lift call, and running vocals on stage,” Maxon said. “Prep for the Hellers was a lot of rehearsals and blocking which required focus from everybody.” Bowie doesn’t participate in the Heller Awards as a company, so this representation of hard work and dedication through the select ensemble rehearsals was a chance for Bowie students to represent the school and make new connections. Even though this process is rigorous and hard, Jensen had opportunities to meet multiple new people and grow as a well-rounded performer. “My favorite part of the process was getting to know everyone and seeing so many talented people every single day and watching everyone grow and perform, as well as watching myself grow not only as a performer, but as a dancer and an actor, we spent so many hours on choreo so my dancing abilities grew a lot,” Jensen said. “I also enjoyed watching other people grow in their choreo as well, and watching everybody tell their story and see their passion when they perform. I made so many friends that I will cherish for the rest of my life and I’m glad that I met them.” After the amount of sweat and constant running of the dances these students had to go through during the rehearsal process, they were able to finally make it to the Heller awards, which was surreal because Bowie students typically don’t get this opportunity. “The performance was so unique and unlike anything I have ever done. The Heller Awards is an awards program for high school theaters, where different schools are nominated for their high school musical production,” Withrow said. “The performance involves numbers from best production nominees, medleys, and select ensemble performances. They also send two students from the Heller Awards to the Jimmy Awards, the national high school theatre awards. I was a part of the select ensemble for the Heller Awards, and so I performed in four numbers during the ceremony, an opening number, a medley, the opening of act 2, and the closing number.” Jensen loved seeing the audience and being able to showcase all the numbers she had worked so consistently hard on. “The songs were “Moving Out” by Billy Joel, “Don’t Stop Me Now”by Queen , “Sensation” from “Tommy” the musical, “Seasons of Love” from “Rent”, “Let Me Be Your Star” from “Smash”, and On Broadway,” Jensen said. “We got to dance and sing our little hearts out as well as tell a story throughout all six songs. We also opened at two with one

celebrates students hard work Alice Goss Entertainment Editor Questions? Concerns? Email:

bowie.journalism@gmail.com

THE TALENTED TRIO: Mary Jensen, Preston Withrow, and Mila Maxon stand together for a photo to represent Bowie’s participation at the Heller Awards. The three students were selected to represent Bowie at the special awards even though the rest of the Bowie Theater department was not involved, meaning the three students chose to participate on their own time. PHOTO BY Izzy Maes

from a course line. It was really fun because the audience loved us and we put on good entertainment for the hellers and got to entertain an entirely packed bass concert hall.” Maxon has loved this experience so much she is already discussing going back for next year. “It’s already my second year and I would love to come back once again,” Maxon said. “I would definitely recommend this program to others, it is such a valuable learning opportunity for young artists willing to pursue theater in the future.” For Maxon, she is experienced with the entire process and actual day of Hellers, but for Withrow and Jensen being at the Hellers for the first time made them realize why their rehearsal process was so consistent and difficult. “I think the Hellers performance was my favorite part of the experience because seeing it all come together for an audience was so awesome and it made me really proud of the work we all did,” Withrow said. “Although it was a really intense rehearsal process and was tiring, it was all worth it because I got to do what I love most with some really amazing people.” Even though the actual performance of those spectacular and perfected performances were an ab-

solute thrill according to these Bowie students, they also discussed how they enjoyed the behind the scenes of that day. “My favorite part of the entire experience was the day of the performance whenever everyone got really close to me, bonded and connected in the makeup room before we performed,” Jensen said. “Also we connected a lot which showed in our performance more and you could tell from an audience perspective, how much we bonded as an ensemble.” According to the students, this process of auditioning, rehearsing, and performing at the Heller Awards changed the students’ perspective on theater and allowed them to grow as not only well-rounded performers, but people. “Overall I have come out of the select ensemble as a totally changed person, every time I work with them I always learn so much about the professional world of theater and lessons to use when going into the professional world of theater,” Maxon said. “The Hellers always push me to become the best I can be, I always come out with so much more friends than I went in with, the bonds that I’ve made are so important to me as a human. It’s good to know I have a place to belong and feel safe.”

As the end of the year comes to a close, the Starlight Theatre Company (STC) has an array of events. Senior directed plays, class musical, musical theatre revues, officer applications, and preparing for the end of year banquet STARS. STARS is a huge celebration of everything done throughout the year, but the main event is the announcement of the next year’s group of officers. Although many company members debate on whether or not this is the best time for this announcement. I support the announcement of next year’s leadership at STARS because it recognizes the hard work put into the application, connects the new officers to the rest of the company, and is an official turn over for the company at the end of the year. The application process for officers includes logging at least 100 after school hours throughout the year, answering a series of questions and then explaining why you are applying for the positions you are. Each candidate is ranked by their teachers and considered carefully by the directors. The process is selective and lengthy to make sure those chosen are prepared for the work load and that they have dedicated lots of work and passion the previous years. Because of how much dedication officer candidates must show, announcing who received the positions at STARS is a wonderful way to recognize all the work they have put in. STARS is also a very highly anticipated event, and one of the only times towards the end of the year where almost everyone in the company is gathered together. This makes STARS the perfect time to announce officers so that everyone knows who got elected, and can congratulate each other. This really helps connect everyone and start to establish strong ties quickly. Having the announcement at the banquet also has created a long standing tradition of getting the officers involved immediately. The new group of officers get to help clean up the banquet after everything is done. This is a great opportunity for the new presidents to take charge and get everyone to work together collaboratively and efficiently before the new school year. The banquet is the STC’s way of saying goodbye to our seniors and really closing out the year with a bang. So, the announcement helps wrap up the year and gets everyone looking towards the next year and what is to come. It’s a great way to close everything out and really turn over leadership, with properly celebrating everyone’s accomplishments. While it’s important to acknowledge that those who apply, but do not receive a position might have negative feelings about the choice to announce at STARS. I understand that this announcement might dampen an otherwise great night for many people but, I still support the timing and place of the announcement because I believe the pros for the entire company outweigh the cons for this small group of people. Announcing the next year’s leadership at STARS is a great way to bring the year to a close, recognize the hard work of those elected, and start connecting the company for the next year ahead.

Choir cabaret captivates with screen to stage performances Koko Badgley-Finan Dispatch Reporter The Bowie choir held their annual “Choir cabaret,” which was their final performance of the year; it was held on May 1-3. The Choir cabaret is a free performance that allows the bowie choir to showcase their talents. The choir cabaret is a special performance that takes place at the end of the year and has a theme. The cabaret format usually consists of short song performances as opposed to the traditional performance which usually follows one narrative. Choir cabaret has the theme of this show being “From the screen to stage.” Junior Spencer Findley helped choreograph the cabaret show. “Choir Cabaret consists of a lot more dancing and performing then a normal choir show does, so we have to prepare for both the music and choreography for it,” Findley said. “The cabaret focused on both SINGING SILVER: Senior Sarah Gomez shows off a silver dress while providing supporting vocals for the Purple Rain performance. She had been rehearsing for weeks. PHOTO BY Liberty Pittman

music and dancing so we made sure to incorporate both sides of the spectrum.” With this show being different from the traditional choir cabaret show format it comes with more challenges. Since this is the final performance for the year for choir there is a lot of pressure to make the show good. Senior Louis Olmeda was one of the performers in the choir cabaret. “The most challenging part of creating this show was memorizing because most people are in more than one part of the show so you have to have everything memorized and plan around that,” Olmeda said. “The show was also really rushed so we had a really quick turn around.” With the theme for this show being “from the screen to the stage” there were a lot of fun songs included. There were songs from popular movies and shows ranging from “Grease” to “Annie,” this was a chance for everyone to hear a song they enjoy as they had songs from multiple different genres. Senior Ava Clarke enjoyed participating in choosing the songs. “Some of the songs we played “Hopelessly Devoted To You”, “Lets Go To The Movies” and “I’ve Had the Time of My Life,” senior Clarke said “It was really fun getting to pick songs because it catered to a lot of different people.” The planning for this show is pretty intense as the people who plan it get less than a month to plan it. Seniors get to pick the theme for the cabaret. They hold auditions for the show and after they pick who will be in the show they start choreography. The preparation for this show includes rigorous after school rehearsals. Choir teacher Aaron Bourgeois had a big part in planning the choir cabaret. “The seniors really helped make this show possible, they helped with the younger grades,” Bourgeois said. “This show came together really well.” According to the students, collaboration was

PURPLE PAIR: Senior Preston Solis strums on the guitar as junior Spencer Findley carries the vocals through their performance. The two sung Purple Rain by Prince along with other choir members during the cabaret. The group had been rehearsing for weeks, spent time finding the perfect outfits, and worked with the techs to make sure the lighting fit the number. Both performers had a handful of other numbers they were in as well. PHOTO BY Liberty Pittman

important in this show because there are a lot of moving parts. This show included choreography as well as music, so there was a lot of team work needed so it would all come together harmoniously. Senior Abby Laine discusses the collaboration for this show. “Me and the other directors really made sure

to communicate with each other and checked in on all of the acts to try and carry out everyone’s vision in the most efficient ways possible,” Laine said. “We also worked with the production crew and they helped with the logistical side of things.”

4 FEATURE

Lost and found gets a digital makeover THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

Junior Karissa Lu creates a sticker QR-code system to return misplaced items privately Isadora Parra Feature Page Editor

ART BY

Isadora

Parra

is privacy and safety. Traditional luggage tags or labels often require users to publicly display Lost water bottles, backtheir names, phone numbers, or packs, laptops, and other peraddresses, something Lu wanted sonal items are a common sight to avoid when creating LuluTag around campus, often piling up “Privacy is really important in overflowing lost-and-found because with current products bins with little chance of making you usually have to put your their way back to their owners. name or phone number on your Hoping to create a simpler and belongings,” Lu said. “With more private solution, junior LuluTag, people don’t know Karissa Lu founded LuluTag, a who the item belongs to, QR-code based system designed and the messages stay to help students recover lost anonymous. We even have belongings quickly and securely. AI checking messages The idea for LuluTag first to make sure everything came to Lu after noticing how stays safe and respectful.” difficult it was for students to Because the tags are relocate their missing items at inexpensive compared school. Many belongings were to GPS trackers, Lu left unclaimed, even when they believes they are more were valuable or used daily. practical for everyday “I realized that a lot of items students frequentschools had lost and founds ly misplace. that were really overcrowded, “GPS trackers can and these items weren’t actually cost like $30-40 and it’s being returned,” Lu said. “It was not practical to put that really hard for students to locate on a $10 water bottle,” their belongings, so that’s what Lu said. “We wanted inspired me to create LuluTag. It something cheap and also helps reduce overconsumpeasy that students could tion and pollution because actually use on lots of different people don’t have things.” to constantly Currently, LuluTags cost replace things around $10 for a pack of 20 they lose.” stickers. Lu said the compaUnlike GPS ny keeps prices low so they trackers or remain accessible for Bluetooth devicstudents, teaches, LuluTag does ers, and families. not rely on Junior Julian batteries, Medina, one of expenLuluTag’s amsive bassadors, helps hardpromote the ware, or product tracking around techcampus nology. and Instead, explain users how it attach a QRworks code stickto er to their other belongings and sturegister the dents. item online. MeIf the item is u dina L a s lost, anyone arisg Founder said K a who finds it can he Lulu T scan the code decidwith a smartphone ed to rra a P a dor and anonymously supY Isa ART B message the owner port LuluTag because he through the website. believed it solved a real problem “So, basically it’s many students deal with every a QR sticker that links to our day. website,” Lu said. “If you lose “I decided to promote Luluyour item, someone can scan Tag because I thought it was a the code and send you a mesreally good idea for helping peosage about where it is.” ple keep track of their belongA major focus of the product ings,” Medina said. “It’s small,

ted "I warneate to c thing some, cheap, e simpdl easy for an ents to studally use, actu cially for s espeday item e everymight los they t school" a

simple, and really cost-effective compared to other tracking products.” As an ambassador, Medina often demonstrates the product to classmates and explains the set-up process. “LuluTag is basically a QRcode sticker you place on your items,” Medina said. “You register your belongings online, and if someone finds your stuff, they can communicate with you through the website. It’s actually really easy to show people because the website is pretty self-explanatory.” Medina believes students and travelers especially benefit from the tags because they frequently carry items from place to place. “I think students and travelers can gain a lot from it,” Medina said. “Inside schools, there are huge lost-and-found sections, and this makes it easier to communicate and return things. Travelers can also use it on luggage, water bottles, and bags.” Students around Bowie have already started using the tags on everyday items. Junior Maddie Mahurin said she attached a LuluTag to her water bottle after losing several in the past. “I started using it because I lose my water bottle a lot,” Mahurin said. “Usually I would just replace it instead of finding it again.” Mahurin said the set-up process only took a few minutes and immediately gave her reassurance. “It was really easy because it’s just a sticker,” Mahurin said. “It reassures me that if I forget my water bottle somewhere, someone can scan the QR code and help get it back to me.” Teachers have also found practical uses for the tags beyond school supplies. Social studies teacher Matthew Parente said he placed one on his luggage while traveling because it offered more privacy than traditional luggage tags. “I thought it was really clever because I don’t have to leave my

SAFETY GOES EVERYWHERE: LuluTag founder Karissa Lu holds up her QR coded water bottle while explaining how the technology helps students reconnect with lost belongings. Lu founded LuluTag in August after noticing overcrowded school lost and founds and realizing many students struggled to recover their items, inspiring her to create a low-cost, privacy-focused alternative to expensive GPS trackers. PHOTO BY Isadora Parra

personal information out in the open,” Parente said. “If someone finds my luggage, they can scan the QR code instead of seeing my address or phone number.” Parente also believes the product could help improve how schools handle lost items on campus. “I have a large lost-and-found section over here with water

bottles and all kinds of stuff,” Parente said. “Most of the time we have no idea who the items belong to. With LuluTag, someone could scan the code and quickly contact the student.” Although LuluTag is still growing, Lu hopes to expand the product into more schools and encourage more students to recognize the tags and understand

how they work “The biggest goal right now is getting more people to use them and recognize them,” Lu said. “We want students to know that if they see a LuluTag, they can scan it and help return someone’s belongings. The goal is to make recovering lost items easier instead of replacing them.”

Discovering new cultures through the power of teaching Zoe Stover Dispatch Reporter

AR Y Isado TB ra Pa

rra

Passport in hand, he steps off the plane into unfamiliar lands to begin a new chapter in his journey as a teacher. Ghana was never a place he had expected to find himself in, yet there he was. Standing thousands of miles from home, he was filled with wonder and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. For Bowie math teacher David Van Newkirk, teaching abroad was an unforgettable experience that shaped his global perspective and helped him discover his passion for teaching. Years before beginning his career as a teacher at Bowie, he signed with the Peace Corps to teach physics in Ghana from 2000 to 2002. “It was what convinced me I wanted to be a teacher long-term,” Van Newkirk said. “I really, really enjoyed working with the students and communities there. The Ghanaians were an incredibly welcoming people.” After graduating with his masters degree in physics, his professor suggested he take the opportunity to teach physics in an exciting new place by joining the Peace Corps. Van Newkirk taught at two senior secondary schools in the villages Mozano and Wenchi, teaching physics to students from ages 14 to 19. Some of Van Newkirk’s students earned free college education for receiving outstanding scores on their entrance exams. “Students really wanted to learn,” Van Newkirk said. “It was pretty common that families were not financially able, even though it was technically free, to pay the school fees for all their children, so students that did get to go recognized that this was a real privilege for them. They were really focused on what was going on in the classroom and really pushing to succeed.” Students in the senior secondary schools Van Newkirk taught at were separated into various pathways

FAMILIAR WITH PYRAMIDS: David Van Newkirk holds pyramid tiles in his hands while demonstrating a geometry activity for his students. He found that students in Ghana were highly motivated to learn and saw education as a privilege, which made them especially focused in the classroom. PHOTO BY Shane Ferguson

known as streams, aimed to help students develop skills in specific career areas. Van Newkirk taught physics to students in the business and science streams. He also worked to develop a computer science program for Wenchi Senior Secondary School. The Peace Corps agreed to provide half the funding towards the computer science program, while the town raised funding to provide the other half. “My second school really, really wanted a computer lab so that students could start learning how computers worked,” Van Newkirk said. “We had about a dozen Peace

Corps volunteers from around the country who got together with the Ghana Education Service to work on that curriculum, and that was a really neat experience.” Van Newkirk’s role as an educator in Ghana expanded beyond the classroom setting. He travelled by bicycle for up to seven days at a time across the Volta Region to provide AIDS education to communities there. “AIDS is, unfortunately, endemic throughout most of Africa,” Van Newkirk said. “There was a particular push during that period to try to raise awareness and understanding of how

it was transmitted and how to protect yourself against it. I helped organize another one in the Brong Ahafo region, which was a very rewarding experience.” Teachers like Van Newkirk serve as an inspiration for the students they taught in other countries as well as their students at Bowie. One of Van Newkirk’s students, sophomore Layla Fair, enjoys his teaching style during geometry class. “It’s a class where I think everyone feels like they can talk and feels welcome,” Fair said. “If you want to talk to him, he will have an hour long con-

versation with you about pretty much anything, because he knows a little bit about everything. I think you can kind of see it in the way he teaches and will try and explain stuff to you.” Van Newkirk believes that teaching in Ghana helped him see the world from a different perspective. He quickly adapted to many of the cultural differences in Ghana and became conversationally fluent in languages in the languages Fante and Twi. “The opportunity to experience a different culture and see different people from within rather than from without is an incredibly rewarding experience,” Van Newkirk said. “Seeing the United States from a perspective outside the country was absolutely unforgettable. The perspective of American culture when you’re not living in it is totally different.” Van Newkirk wants to visit Ghana to see how the country has changed and reconnect with friends he made while living there. His passion for travel has led him to consider exploring other parts of the world when given the opportunity. “I haven’t spent any time in Central or South America, and I do speak Spanish, so it might be interesting to go and learn about more cultures and experiences that I haven’t had before there as well,” Van Newkirk said. “I would recommend international travel not as a tourist, but as something more deeply involved in communities, to anybody.”

FEATURE 5

Crazing for caffeine THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 THE DISPATCH

Students have become reliant on alternatives forms of energy What are Bowie students favorite caffeinated drinks?

Coffee-21.5% Tea-12.2% Redbull-15.1% Alani-10.1% Other-41.1%

Info-graphic data is from a poll of 377 Bowie students. Out of the respondents there were 75 freshman, 161 sophomores, 117 juniors, and 24 seniors. 128 students identified as male, 234 identified as female, 12 identified as non-binary/other, and 3 preferred not to share.

What time of day do Bowie students typically drink caffeinated? drinks?

Morning-67.1% Afternoon-32.1% Evening-18.6% Night-8.8% Don’t consume

caffeine-18.8% ART BY Jenny Kimbrough

Energy drink cans cracking open, espresso machines whirring, and coffee orders being called out have all become part of many people’s daily lives. From early mornings headed to a morning practice, to late night homework, an increasing number of teenagers rely on caffeine to maintain their daily schedules. As the consumption of caffeine among teenagers continues to rise, so do the concerns about how it affects students’ academic performance, sleep, and daily habits. Coffee, various energy drinks, and other highly caffeinated drinks have become increasingly available to teenagers. What many students believe to be a simple energy boost can actually lead to mental health issues, exhaustion, and heart problems.

ADDICTION According to the National Library of Medicine, caffeine is the most commonly used drug in the world. An increasing number of studies have continued to show that some caffeine consumers have become dependent on the Dahlia Wildman sophomore drug and are unable to reduce consumption even while understanding the history of health problems associated with their usage. “I think caffeine is addictive because it’s considered a drug, but I think it’s addictive partially, because of the social aspect of it,” sophomore Dahlia Wildman said. “It’s considered a social norm to drink it a lot, so some people feel the need to drink it because of the social pressures that come with it. I think teens are more addicted to it or rely on it more than other children or adults would because we physically need more energy.” With continued use of caffeine, people begin to develop a dependency on caffeinated drinks despite the effects that it has on the brain. This is because overtime, their body begins to become immune to the effects from caffeine, causing people to have to increase their dosage in order to feel satisfied. “Sometimes I do feel like I need caffeine to function,” Wildman said. “It really depends on how much sleep I get. On a day where I don’t have it, I will sometimes get

headaches, but that’s the most that happens.”

POSITIVE EFFECTS According to the Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, correct caffeine usage can also have benefits. The clinic’s research shows that caffeine makes users feel more awake because it blocks the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes them feel tired, increases their mood by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity which enhances sensory detection, and can improve focus. “I think part of the reason that caffeine can be addictive for teens is because it can help people function and focus during the duration of the school day,” junior Jayden Youngblood said. In a Dispatch student survey, around 39% of the students interviewed stated that their main reasoning for caffeine consumption is for an increase of energy. Comparatively, 37% of students interviewed claimed their main reasoning for caffeine consumption was for the taste of the caffeinated drinks. “I do think caffeine is addictive,” sophomore Bailey Reed said. “Because it can help you wake up and feel less tired. Teens also enjoy the taste of it and often continue to drink it to keep reaching for the feeling of not being tired.”

NEGATIVE EFFECTS After surveying about 10% of the Bowie student population, results of the survey suggest that over one third of students have experienced negative side effects from consuming caffeine. In fact, 17% of the students surveyed reported that on days where they

to other drugs, when suddenly don’t consume caffeine, they feel stopping the consumption of more tired than usual. caffeine, individuals will often “I don’t really feel like I need experience withdrawal symptoms caffeine to function,” sophomore which causes many individuals Dylan Cox said. “I feel like I to not want to fully quit the use could survive without caffeine, of the highly addictive drug. but I just get nauseous and extra According to Riley Children’s tired and sometimes get headHealth, for teens ages 12-18, the aches when I don’t drink it.” recommended caffeine intake is According to The Alcohol and around 100 milligrams per day. Drug Foundation some negative However, an effects of caffeine average energy include feelings of drink contains increased feelings around 200 of alertness, acI have tried to cut milligrams per tiveness, anxiety, can. Because one irritability, restback on caffeine. energy drink can lessness, dizziI realized it was already exceed ness, etc. Various students throughstarting to become the recommendlimit, teens out Bowie were a real problem, but ed who consume asked about how caffeine affects I kept going back to multiple cans a day may be taktheir lives. drinking it. ing around two “If I drink an to three times Alani or Bloom Ciel Thompson the recommendenergy drink, then junior ed amount for my hands and their age group. body get really “I have tried shaky,” sophoto cut back on caffeine,” sophomore Ruby Royo said. “I also more Oliver Gibson said. “I think notice that the few times that it went well because I don’t get I do drink caffeine, I get super grumpy or any other side effects hyper as well.” anymore.” Researchers and medical professionals have also raised concerns about the addictive According to healthline.com, effects that caffeine can have limiting or even eliminating on teenagers and their ability caffeine can have significantto regulate their consumption ly positive side effects such as on a healthy level. Often, teens improved sleep quality, decreased are still developing self control anxiety, and reduced headaches. and healthy habits, this causes Reducing caffeine intake can also them to be more likely to become do things like lowering blood dependent on caffeine without pressure, balance hormones and realizing it. brain chemistry.” “Overall, I do think caffeine is “I had to cut back on caffeine addictive for teens,” Gibson said. last year,” Wildman said. “I used “Because it’s addictive for to drink an energy drink every everyone of all ages, but specifisingle day, and then I almost cally teens because they are less started passing out when I would likely to control addictive drink them, so I had to just tendencies.” stop drinking them for a while.” Similar

"

CUTTING BACK

How often do Bowie students consume caffeinated drinks? 11.4%

Once a week Every day

17.5%

A few times a month Rarely/never

20.2%

22.8% 28.%

A few times a week

0

5

10

15

20

Percentage of Bowie student survey respondents

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6 SPORTS

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

Sports teams suffer due to the impact of AISD budget cuts Head Baseball coach Sam Degelia remarks on the certain changes Bowie sports will face As of May 11, 2026, Austin Independet School District is addressing budget cuts as a solution to the $181 million deficit. District officials are proposing major cuts to athletic programs and fine arts departments across campuses. Bowie students and coaches expressed concern that these reductions are going to lead to an increase in the dismissal of staff, less equipment, and entire programs being cut. According to head baseball coach Sam Degelia, the potential loss of teams affects campus life, especially for underclassmen trying to get involved in the community. “We have a lot of freshmen who come out for baseball each year. If the budget cuts eliminate any of our teams, then we will be forced to only keep a very small number, if any, of students who try out,” Degelia said. “Our enrollment is big, so now you’re talking about having students not being able to participate in a sport.” Communication from district officials regarding cuts has been limited and unclear. This has resulted in many individuals feeling frustrated, including junior cross country captain Clover Murray, who describes this vagueness as another example of students not being given the option to give their input. “Student voices are not being considered by the district or by administrators; the only information about budget cuts that I’ve heard has come from teachers. Anytime teachers talk to students about them, they act like it’s taboo or like they’re not supposed to or allowed to tell us anything,” Murray said. “I’ve only heard that teachers will be cut and others will be forced to teach more classes for the same pay.” For the upcoming 2026-2027 season, athletic departments are also worried about the impact these budget cuts have on overall student participation. Head cheer coach Hailey Scott emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the program’s growth. “My biggest concern is protecting the continued growth of our program. We are building a culture centered around discipline, leadership, skill development, and pride in representing our school,” Scott. “Our athletes work hard not only to improve athletically, but also to support their campus and community with dignity and professionalism. I would hate to see opportunities limited for students who are committed to that mission.” As reported by KVUE news, leaders have identified $33.9 million in cuts at the campus level. Degelia warns that this will cause student-athletes and teachers to move districts. “If sports teams get cut, then the student athletes are going to be the ones who suffer. A lot of kids want to play for their high school teams, and if we have teams cut, they will go elsewhere to continue to fulfill their dream,” Degelia said. “If we are limited to two teams, students are going to find other school districts to go to and play. We already lose kids to other schools in our district because of facilities, or lack of facilities.” As more decisions are to be made, Murray believes that there are many questions to ask and that students should be informed about future advancements. “I think it’s important that new students understand the economic situation that all extracurricular activities are facing at Bowie,” Murray said. “If I were to speak directly to AISD decision makers, I would inquire about why lots of money is going into other large construction projects, instead of funding teacher salaries and programs. I would try to talk about the importance of fostering all programs, as every extracurricular is someone’s passion.” STORY BY Olivia Hunter

COMING UP IN SPORTS:

Girls softball is out with a bang The Lady ‘Dawgs compete in regional semi-finals against Buda Johnson Eve Johansson Sports Editor The sun starts setting over Westlake High School as the players warming up on the softball field mentally and physically prepare for another round of playoffs. Promptly at 7 p.m. the game starts and the Bowie Girls Softball team faces off against Buda Johnson to determine who moves on to the fourth round. The third round of playoffs is also known as the regional semi-finals, meaning whoever moves on will get their chance in round four, or the regional finals. According to sophomore Ellie Lauer, she thought they have a good chance of winning if they stay energized throughout the game. “We played them earlier in the season, and lost, but we’ve gotten a lot better since then,” Lauer said. “I think it could honestly go either way, it’s super fifty-fifty, but if we keep up the energy and focus the whole game, we definitely have a chance of beating them.” The Lady Dawgs made it to round three by defeating SA Brennan in a game series, winning the first game 8-7 and the second game 9-8. Both close games, but the Bowie softball

SLIPPING AND SLIDING: Junior Cecilia Alvarez slides to safety, helping her team load the bases and secure more runs against their opponents, the Buda Johnson Jaguars. In total, the Lady Dawgs were able to push four runs across the plate, but fell just a short of winning the game in extra innings. PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

team ultimately ended up on top, securing their place in round three against Buda Johnson. “I really feel these girls are connected and want to win and be successful,”

SPRINTING TO SAFETY: Senior Josie Busceme races against time as she tries to reach the base before she gets tagged out. In order to give Bowie the lead, Busceme must help her team load the bases or try to reach home base to get her team another run. PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

Lady ‘Dawgs Softball coach Elizabeth Wissel said. “They figure out how to get the job done and they’ve done it together, which I think is what led us to a big win against SA Brennan.” Apart from Wissel, Lauer also dedicates the team’s recent wins to their ability to work well with one another. She says being able to have a deep bond with a team not only makes the games more enjoyable but also gives them an advantage over other teams who might not know each other as well. “I think making it this far in playoffs is definitely because of our connection as a team,” Lauer said. “We’re really good at lifting each other up when we need to, plus everyone on the team is a good player and gets their jobs done.” After a hard fought game against Buda Johnson, the Lady Dawgs ended up losing 5-4 in a nail-biter in the 10th inning. To seniors like outfielder Bella Nungaray, the loss was even more devastating because it marks their last time playing for the Bowie softball team. “Being on this team has brought me so much joy, and I’m definitely sad our playoff run ended the way it did,” Nungaray said. “But at the same time I’m really proud of us and of what we’ve accomplished.” Last year, the team only made it to the first round of playoffs, so for the others who aren’t graduating, making it to the regional semi-finals gives them the motivation to work even harder and get further next season. “We’ve had a different experience with playoffs this year and it feels so good to see our progress as a team,”

Lauer said. “Making it to semi-finals has given us the motivation to strive and keep building these memories with each other and a chance to say goodbye to the seniors in a way they deserve.” Despite not making it to the fourth round, the Lady ‘Dawgs had a solid district season, with more than double the wins over losses. According to Wissel, the team had a super promising season, and their loss to Buda didn’t reflect how thoroughly they played all game. “This group played really well together,” Wissel said. “And although we didn’t end up making it to the fourth round, they had a great game and gave it their all.” According to Wissel, the team stepped out on the field every game wanting to win and proved that they could through their most memorable wins of the season. They were able to beat Lake Travis and Westlake two times each in district season, two of Bowie’s biggest sports competitors. “The environment of this team is honestly like no other that I’ve been on,” Nungaray said. “We always have high energy and give one hundred percent every game.” Both Lauer and Nungaray expressed their love for the Lady ‘Dawgs softball team, not only because of their connection on the field, but how friendly they were with each other off of it as well. “I love how much fun we have and how the girls make the most out of every practice and game,” Wissel said. “This is a really special group, and they deserve the world.”

Strength, skill, and discipline: Durbin’s karate journey Zoe Stover Dispatch Reporter

started martial arts two years prior. She decided to test out the martial art at a summer camp and decided it was Stepping into the ring, she calms something she wanted to pursue. She her racing heart as her eyes lock with quickly picked up on punching, kickher competitor. She pictures the pering, and sparring techniques. fect attack; with each swift, yet harm“It’s definitely helped me feel safer less, blow taking her one step closer in unsafe environments,” Durbin to victory. A fierce roundhouse said. “It’s given me the ability to kick. A careful block. A left hook. feel safer when I’m walking alone, Each move precise and perfectly and when I’m with people I don’t timed. All the years of training and really know.” preparation boiled down to this In addition to learning moment. sparring skills like punching Senior Penelope Durbin and kicking, her martial has dedicated ten years to arts classes have taught her mastering Kuk Sool Won, a how to handle nunchucks traditional Korean martial and bamboo staffs. She also arts style. Kuk Sool Won is occasionally practices archery a unique style of self-defense in class, using blunt arrows to that incorporates hand-to-hand hit a target. combat, striking techniques and “I really like the environweapon training. The progression ment and the people there,” of Kuk Sool Won is measured usDurbin said. “I’ve basically ing a belt system of ten different grown up with everybody there colors. Beginners typically start since I’ve been doing it for a with white belts and can progress really, really long time. So I’d up to a black belt after mastersay the people are just like my ing each level. After ten years of family.” practice and hard work, Durbin Senior Hunter Krauss and has achieved the honor of a second his brother Logan Krauss attend degree black belt in her studio. the same martial arts studio as “It’s definitely taught me disDurbin and have been practicing cipline, respect, and etiquette, Kuk Sool Won for years. Huntbecause I know if I er and Logan didn’t grow up with WINNING SMILE: Penelope Durbin takes competed with martial arts, I’d be her place on the podium after winning Durbin at the a very different per- first place. She’s dedicated years to Kuk annual World Sool Won and has earned her double son,” Durbin said. Tournament “It’s made me more black belt. COURTESY OF Stephanie in Galveston Durbin empathetic, and I against other feel like I am more Kuk Sool Won mature because of it, since they taught competitors from around the world. us etiquette from such a young age.” The Krauss brothers are currently at Durbin was inspired to try Kuk the Dahn Bo Nim level and are apSool Won by her older brother, who proaching the rank of a black belt.

PINNED DOWN: Senior Penelope Durbin secures a win by holding her opponent down on the mat. She won first place at the World Tournament in 2024 and keeps on proving her skills in more recent competitions. COURTESY OF Stephanie Durbin

“I think she’s very talented,” Hunter said. “In the World Tournament, we were sparring, and she had lots of balance and relentless kicks. From what I’ve seen, she is definitely very strong and brave.” In the World Tournament, Durbin competed against other black belts from Kuk Sool Won studios in places like the U.S., Korea, Canada, and the U.K. The competitors were judged based on the execution of their sparring techniques. Durbin won first place in 2024, claiming a World Title. Earlier that year, she was awarded another World Title for a smaller tournament in Arkansas. “I felt really proud of myself,”

Durbin said. “It was a fun memory overall, and every year we celebrate afterwards and go to the hotel’s pool in Galveston.” Durbin and the Krauss brothers compete in the World Tournaments every year against other people of the same age, gender, and belt. They focus on their training in Kuk Sool Won to improve their form and techniques for competitions, making improvements with every practice. “Kuk Sool Won taught me basic self-defense, like how to throw a punch or kick without getting injured,” Logan said. “It’s for people who want strength, flexibility, or self-defense skills.”

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SPORTS 7

THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 THE DISPATCH

Speeding through the trails to state Sophomore Roman Gonzalez cleans the podium and grabs the Bulldogs another title Olivia Hunter Sports Editor Adrenaline pumping, gravel lifting, and tires scraping as sophomore Roman Gonzalez climbs up the hill. Using his last ounce of strength, he races to a state championship and secures another title for the Bowie Mountain Biking Team. Mountain biking, often referred to as cross-country in the Austin community, ranges from endurance-based races to short off-roading circuits. Founded in the late 1970s, modern biking offered a disciplined way for people to compete. According to USA Cycling, the sport encompasses many different forms: cross country, short track, ultra-endurance, downhill, enduro, dual slalom, and four-cross. “These days, we are called Bulldog MTB to cover the full range of grades and schools that participate in our program. Within the cycling world, our discipline is categorized as Cross Country or XC,” head coach Tyronne Walker said. “We compete under NICA, the National Interscholastic Cycling Association Gonzalez began racing for Bowie in sixth grade and for the past four years has continued to focus on improving his competition strategy. Junior co-captain

Noah Bercen claims that Gonzalez’s growth is partly due to his resilient personality on and off the trails. “I’ve seen Roman grow and improve more than I think anyone expected. He used to be decently fast, not crazy fast like he is now. Over the past three years, I’ve watched him gain a lot of skill and strength that it takes to do what he did,” Bercen said. “He’s got this quality of okay, I did this wrong, here’s how I can fix it. He goes and does that, he’s also got a never-quit attitude that I love to see, he’s gonna go full gas till it’s over or he can’t anymore, he’s starting to learn about leadership, and I think in the next two years he’s going to be a good mentor to our younger generation of riders.” Bowie’s mountain biking team consists of fifth-grade bikers learning how to properly position their bodies when shifting gears, to experienced high school students mastering advanced maneuvers like cornering and jumps. Despite these very different levels of skill, Walker remarked that the team is a tight-knit group that dedicates time to training together and learning different techniques. “Our team is composed of grades 5th through 12th,” Walk

BIKE CHECK: Gonzalez shows off his winning wheels. He plans to continue mastering shifting gears and jumps. PHOTO BY Reese Walker

TREKKING UP THE HILL: Sophomore mountain biker Roman Gonzalez accelerates to the top, using momentum and grit to pedal faster. The MTB team has just finished their season with another state championship win and are moving into summer training. PHOTO BY Reese Walker

er said. “Our training schedule consists of four practices per week: two weekday sessions and two weekend rides. While the weekdays focus on specific drills and techniques, our weekend rides are longer in duration, allowing the athletes to reinforce those skill sets.” Competitions, which are primarily mass start races where riders complete multiple laps of a course, work by awarding points based on riders’ finish placement and the size of the race field. Many associations, like USA Cycling, use a decreasing point scale where the winner gets the maximum number of points, and each following racer earns fewer. Gonzalez won by 0.38 seconds over Austin High’s top rider, Dash O’Neil, and earned a total of 500 points for the Bulldogs state championship. “Mountain biking is different because it’s more individual than other high school sports. The more races you win or the more people you pass, the more you move up in placement for the next race,” Gonzalez said. “It’s a point system, and the higher the points, the higher your team’s placement in the competitions is.” Girls varsity biker and GRIT ambassador Caroline Price explains that the program creates an environment for all athletes and genders to feel included. As both a competitor and a leader, Price believes that Gonzalez is

a key member who strengthens recovery time. the team’s relationship by being “I prepared for state in two a good role model for the young- phases, one was pre-season and mid-season, which was building er athletes. motor endurance, and I did that “The program is super by eating accepting clean, lifting and fun, but weights, also serious. riding five I would days a week say that it on a trainreally pushes Roman is more of athletes who ing plan, want to excel and trying a role model than a and take to get to leader; his skill on the the sport to bed early,” higher levels, Bercen said. bike comes naturally, but it’s also “Phase two yet he backs that accepting started the for athletes talent with an immense week before who want to last regcommitment to training our compete for ular-season the commurace. The on his own time.. week was nity aspect all about of the sport,” recovery, Price said. keeping “Roman’s Mountain Biking Coach the legs dedication to spinning, the sport has and trying really shone to keep my through energy level as high as possible as the years have gone on. He for as long as I could each day rides every day and sticks to his leading up to the race, at night training schedule, which is the it was bands, rollers, thera-gun, kind of dedication you need in and ice, as well as electrolytes to an endurance sport.” keep my body loose and fresh.” Preparation for competition Athletes rely on physical builds the mental and physiendurance when competing. Cycal edge that athletes need to perform. It prevents injury, mincling specifically requires high demands of cardiovascular outimizes anxiety, and boosts confidence in athletes like Bercen. put; however, Walker believes He follows a structured routine mental strength and enjoyment prior to state, including eating are the most important factors nutritional foods and utilizing that contribute to success. As

"

Tyronne Walker

a coach he prioritizes racers well-being and overall passion for the sport, leading to the MTB team being a cohesive program with back to back championship wins. “With mountain biking you have to keep it fun. At the same time you have to be able and ready to give it your all. In cycling it’s referred to as “suffering.” If you can manage to execute that you will have prepared an athlete for when hard work meets opportunity,” Walker said. “Physically, the effort was as high as ever. But what set this season apart was the mental game. This group didn’t just show up to ride; they showed up to defend a state championship.” In addition to technical skills, the team teaches bikers how teamwork and discipline can impact performance and growth. In hopes of placing at more comps throughout the rest of the season, Gonzalez focuses on eating more carbs, finding a source of motivation, and maintaining a structured routine. “My favorite part of the team is the support it brings. It has taught me the importance of consistency and what it means to work for something,” Gonzalez said. “The team teaches us how to balance schoolwork and biking by being organized and disciplined. Having my teammates at races helps motivate me to finish.”

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8 PHOTO ESSAY

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

Bowie Spring Show sends off seniors

Silver Stars and JV dancers perform together one last time to end dance season Arlo Stockstill Photo Essay Editor As the final jump split is landed, confetti rains, it’s the final dance of the ‘25-’26 dance season, and for some of the seniors, the last dance ever, has been completed. As tears welled up in the eyes of performers and parents alike, the crowd stormed the stage to give one final goodbye to the seniors. The James Bowie High School dancers performed their annual spring show on April 23 and April 25. The spring show served as a final hoorah to the senior dancers and gave the whole team an opportunity to showcase their dedication and comradery that they have built throughout the year. However, before the glory, senior captain Emily Saucedo along with all the other officers dedicated lots of time into the preparation for the show. “I, as a captain, and the other officers put a lot into the preparation of our spring show,” Saucedo said. “I chopped up music for our dances, I scaled the music, and then put it all together. For the officers as a whole, we choreographed four dances, and taught them to the team. A bunch of teamwork and collaboration went into the preparation of the show, and it was super important for me as a captain that I could help lead the team and make sure we put our best foot forward.” As the officers prepared the varsity routines, JV took their own steps towards completing their part of the spring show. JV dance is filled with dancers who are still very passionate about dance, while dedicating slightly less time to it, they found smaller roles requiring less time dedicated to their dance during the day while still completing full outs during rehearsal. “During the spring show, the JV stars performed four dances choreographed and taught by our coach,” junior Jayden Pratt said. “I like JV dance because we get to still express our passion without having to double block and dedicate as much time outside of school to the performance. That being said, every time we did have practice, we gave it our all and went full out for every single dance we did, because at the end of the day we’re all dancers.” Along with the varsity and JV squads, members of the Dance for Athletes class also had their own performance

towards the end of the first half of the show. They practiced during their class period and went to the gym to practice after school. All of this alludes to the ultimate purpose of the class which is to teach athletes to be more agile which makes them better at their own sport. “Dance for Athletes is fun because you get to connect with your friends and try something new,” junior Keegan Cox said. “It allows you to get closer to and build team chemistry with teammates you typically don’t see as much in the offseason. After the final preparation the dance commenced, and all of the hard work and preparation was ready to be executed. The spring show’s theme was work, featuring dances choreographed specifically around jobs and to express what it entails. Heading into the show, the team reflected on how far they came, and by the time the final confetti popped, junior Alicia Laughlin cried knowing that her final moments with the seniors was near. “Before the dance, to get jitters out, the team gathers in a memory circle and talks about our favorite moments throughout the year,” Laughlin said. “This helps us really look back and feel accomplished about how far we have come as a team. The most emotional moment of the show is definitely when the final confetti drops, because at that moment, all you are thinking about is that your time with those seniors is close to being finished.” After the show, many dancers were left not knowing what to do. For some, the post-season is the time to rest, chill, and recover after constant practice building up to the spring show. However, for some it is quite the opposite. In order to savor the last moments with the team, dancers like Saucedo took master classes taught by guests coming from out of the school just to teach the Silver Stars. “Now that dance is over, we have taken master classes taught by former Silver Stars and guest choreographers,” Saucedo said. “Since I don’t intend to dance in college, these gave me an opportunity to connect with my team, and dance as a whole, one last time. As of right now, I can only hope I have left a good legacy and good impression on the team, so that the future of Silver Stars will continue to have strong leaders that lead by example.” AND SCENE: Friday, April 24, the Bowie dance team performed this years spring show. As the theme of the dance pictured was florist, junior Alicia Laughlin, released rose pedals above her head right before the dance finished, leading into intermission which would end the first half of this years spring show. “Each dance had an occupation it was choreographed around, since the theme was work,” Laughlin said. “The one associated with florist was meant to strongly provoke sad emotions, each dancer had rose pedals in their pocket which we would throw out during every other trick we landed to add dramatic effect. PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

LOOKING IN AWE: Captain Emily Saucedo stands on top of a desk finalizing the officer dance for the Silver Stars. The spring shows theme was work, and the job that inspired this dance was a writer. “To me, being a good captain means showing up every day,” Saucedo said. “As officers, dancing together took lots of team work, dedication, and collaboration with one another.” PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

HOLD ME BACK: During this years spring show, members of the Silver Stars recreate their competition dances. The particular one being recreated was called hip-hop. “The varsity officers took part in choreographic four dances,” captain Emily Saucedo said. “However we did do some of our competition dance in order to show all of the dances we have learned and mastered this year.” PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

STAND ALONE: In the last week of April, the Bowie dance teams performed their spring show. This was one of the last dances before the senior send off. “The senior send off was very emotional,” captain Emily Saucedo said. “It felt good to be surrounded by family though.” PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

WEIRD SCIENCE: Doing their part in the show, members of the Dance for Athletes program strike their final pose of the recital. This was the second to last performance before intermission helping wrap up the first half of the spring show laying the ground for the rest of the show. ”I love dance for athletes because it is super fun and helps your team building skills,” junior Keegan Cox said. “Hearing the crowd cheer for a bunch of athletes trying a goofy dance is super rewarding to me.” PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

AND KICK: In the last dance before intermission, the dancers leap into a jump split while releasing rose pedals. The dance ended shortly after this move, leading into the second half of the performance. “My favorite part of spring show is performing for a crowd,” junior Ella Killian said. “It’s super fun to have a group of people cheering you on” PHOTO BY Arlo Stockstill

REVIEWS 9

THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 THE DISPATCH

‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ struts into the spotlight

A behind the scenes look into the modern fashion and journalism world through film Kona Badgley-Finan Review Editor

presence grounds and propels Andy in this movie, too. In turn, Andy repays the favor, pushing Miranda to finally “The Devil Wears Prada 2” debuted see that Nigel wanted to start branchMay 1, 2026, almost 20 years since the ing out in the magazine. It was sweet first movie was released. The origito see Nigel finally get to do the job he nal movie was a huge hit, grossing wanted to do and to see that their dear over $325 million worldwide and is and lovely bond had continued. extremely culturally significant, as it I also loved seeing the evolution is still relevant 20 years later. With of Emily and Andy’s relationship in “The Devil Wears Prada” being one this movie, which finds both womof my favorite movies, I had very high en in very different spaces 20 years expectations, while recognizing that later. Despite setbacks, conflict, and it’s hard to live up to the phenomenon mistrials, both Emily and Andy seem that the first movie was, and is. to share an underlying respect for This movie follows an older Andy each other that is obvious throughout Sachs (Anne Hathaway), who is now the film. It was also nice to see the an award-winning journalist. After characters turning into the people they 20 years of not being in the fashion dreamed of being 20 years ago. industry, she returns to “Runway” as Emily is now a mom and a senior a features editor and writer, along the executive at the luxury fashion house, way reuniting with her former mentor, Dior, and Andy is an award-winning Nigel (Stanley Tucci), her former journalist with a wide and impressive co-worker/frenemy, Emily (Emily network of support. Although those Blunt), and, of course, the iconic roles change during the movie, they “Runway” magazine editor, Miranda showcase the futures that many of us Priestly (Meryl Streep). would have envisioned and hopes for Overall, I really liked this movie, these two driven and unique women. although I don’t feel like it has the An odd subplot that was included same vibe as the first one. An importin the movie without adequate context ant part of this movie, which focuses was a new love interest for Andy. I felt in part on saving the dying magazine this inclusion was really random – it industry, that they did well was the starts at the beginning of the movie portrayal of how much the magazine and by the end of the movie, when industry has changed throughout the it was reintroduced, I had forgotten years. As people have started to rely about it. Knowing how strong of a on AI a lot more, the overarching character Andy is, I was confused as message that fashion and writing is to why they felt any need to introbest done by humans is a really good duce a love interest without properly reminder, although at times I did feel developing the characters. As it was, like the movie was a little all over the it seemed totally pointless. That said, place. there was no mention of her original This movie had all of the main boyfriend, Nate, from the first movie, cast from the and I think we can all original, and it agree we’re better off SCAN FOR MORE! was so special that way. to get to see all Obviously, the one of them on the character that everyscreen togethone was eager to catch er once more. up with was Miranda There were Priestley – the “Florals also so many for spring? Groundreferences to breaking” icon who the first movie, always tells it like it is. which was fun Despite drastic changes to see. to the magazine, the One of the world of journalism best parts of and also to her personal PODCAST BY Izzy Maes the movie was life, Miranda’s personseeing Andy reality was primarily the unite with her same in this movie, and former coworkers, particularly with I’m glad for that. Nigel. Much like in the first movie, The ending of this movie was also in which Nigel provides Andy with executed really well. It tied up all the the game-changing makeover that loose ends and left on an uplifting transforms her from a lumpy-sweater note that shows that, while people and hideous-skirt-wearing outcast may never really change, they can to a Paris-trotting, Chanel-boot-clad always dress better. Also, as in the fashionista, Nigel’s strong and steady first movie, the filming locations were

ART BY Claire Ferrante

incredible, including Milan and Lake Como, Italy. As in the first movie, New York City once again stars as a movie character, too, leaving everyone wanting to book a flight, grab an onion bagel, and stage their own photo shoot in Central Park. Overall, even though it took them two decades to make this movie – yes,

they moved at a glacial pace – I really enjoyed it. I think probably my favorite part was seeing all of the references to the first movie and watching all of the main characters become friends and create bonds in a way they didn’t before. If you’re looking for a groundbreaking new take on “The Devil Wears

Prada,” you won’t exactly find that here. But if you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic romp that stays true to a beloved classic, you’ll definitely love this movie. In the words of Miranda, “That’s all.”

Sabrina Carpenter brings pop energy to Coachella stage Isadora Parra Feature Editor

Under the desert lights of Indio, where every performance is expected to be louder, flashier, and more headline-worthy than the last, Sabrina Carpenter walked onto the Coachella stage and turned it into a glossy old-Hollywood dream she fittingly called “Sabrinawood.” For years, Coachella has been known as a place where artists chase spectacle. Giant pyrotechnics, surprise guests, dramatic entrances, and social media moments often overshadow the actual music. Carpenter understood the assignment, but instead of trying to outdo everyone with chaos, she built a performance around image, charm, and control. The set was styled like a glamorous Hollywood production. There were vintage visuals, polished choreography, sparkling costumes, and the kind of stage presence that felt carefully rehearsed without becoming robotic. The “Sabrinawood” concept framed the entire show like a walk through Carpenter’s own pop-stardom movie set. She has always leaned into theatricality, but at Coachella she pushed that identity further. Every movement seemed intentional. Every camera angle felt considered. The entire show looked less like a festival set and more like a star vehicle. That theme mattered. Carpenter has spent the last year transforming from former Disney actress and pop up-and-comer into a genuine main pop figure. Her recent success has not come from reinvention so much as refinement. She knows exactly what kind of performer she wants to be, and this show reflected that confidence. Vocally, she was sharp throughout the night. Festival performances can sometimes suffer from weak live singing, too much backing track, or artists being swallowed by production. Carpenter avoided those traps. She sounded strong, energetic, and playful, especially on her biggest songs. Even when the choreography intensified, her vocals remained steady. Of course, no major Coachella performance feels complete without surprise appearances, and Carpenter delivered there as well. She brought out special guests that sent the crowd into a frenzy, creating the type of communal excitement that festivals thrive on. The appearances were smartly timed and never distracted from the main event. They added energy without hijacking the performance. That balance is harder than it looks. Many artists use guests as a shortcut, relying on celebrity cameos to generate buzz. Carpenter used hers as enhancement, not replacement. It was still clearly her show from beginning to end.

ART BY Isadora Parra

Still, the weekend surrounding Carpenter was not without controversy. Online discussion resurfaced criticism tied to a moment in which she was accused of reacting dismissively to someone’s culture, with many pointing to a comment interpreted as “eww.” Whether exaggerated through social media retelling or fairly criticized, the backlash became part of the conversation around her appearance. That is the strange reality of modern pop stardom. Artists no longer arrive at festivals carrying only their set-lists. They arrive with weeks of discourse attached to them. Every performance now exists alongside apology demands, fan defenses, clipped videos, and trending arguments. To Carpenter’s credit, she did what many performers in that position aim to do but fail at. She redirected attention to the work itself. Once the music started, the discussion online felt second-

ary to what was happening on stage. And what was happening on stage was impressive. The Hollywood concept could have easily come across as shallow. There is always a risk when leaning too heavily into glamour that style replaces substance. Instead, Carpenter made the aesthetic feel playful and self-aware. She seemed in on the joke while still fully committing to it. It was glamorous, yes, but not lifeless. Campy, but not unserious. There is something refreshing about a pop star embracing performance as performance. Not every concert needs to be framed as therapy. Not every set has to pretend it is raw and spontaneous to be meaningful. Sometimes audiences simply want to be entertained by someone who understands how to command a stage. Carpenter clearly does.

The crowd responded accordingly. Fans screamed every lyric, phones lit the air, and even casual viewers seemed drawn into the momentum. Coachella crowds can be difficult, split between devoted fans, curious passersby, influencers, and exhausted attendees waiting for the next act. Carpenter held them. That may be the most important takeaway of the night. Beyond costumes, discourse, and guest appearances, she looked like an artist fully capable of carrying a massive stage. As the set closed and the desert lights bounced off sequins and screens, Carpenter left behind the kind of performance festivals are built for. It was polished, dramatic, catchy, and highly discussable. In other words, it was very Sabrinawood. And for one night at Coachella, that worked perfectly.

10 COMMENTARY

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

Graduating Seniors Class of 2026 Editors Liberty Pittman Elizabeth Yowell Katie Grumet Marissa McGowan Charlotte Schwarte Sam Bode Peyton Dorsey Savannah Riggins Caroline Baxter Ava Weaver Capri Wyatt Gabby Bochey Ryan Zuniga Will Olenick

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Budget crisis slams district

The proposed AISD budget cuts will produce harmful outcomes EDITORIAL This school year, the Austin Independent School District budget was supposed to have a $19.7 million deficit, but now they expect to end the 2025-2026 school year with a $49 million deficit. Next school year, AISD leaders are considering significant budget cuts, which would require difficult decisions. These proposed cuts stem from an anticipated $181 million deficit for the 2026-27 school year. This is extremely concerning for the district and can lead to major negative changes across the district. The proposed budget cuts will cause school closures across the district, create larger classes, with programs and classes being cut, and staff members being laid off. Many members of the AISD community and district are concerned about how these decisions will negatively affect the lives of students, staff members, and school teachers. The harmful effects of these proposed cuts should be stopped for the sake of the entire district and so everyone can know the changes that will potentially be made in the upcoming school years. A major consequence of these budget cuts would result in the cutting many school programs, such as sports and certain elective classes. The AISD board revealed that programs such as after-school activities, art programs, as well as technology and digital design-related classes would be most affected by these budget cuts. These reductions can often lead to lower student engagement and a widening of inequality gaps, as some schools in higher-income areas are wealthier and can afford to keep these programs, while lower-income areas cannot. The cutting of certain programs can also create lost opportunities for growth, as some of these programs and classes at risk of being cut are offered to prepare students for college and their future careers. For example, on our campus, Bowie entrepreneurship classes are at risk of being cut as a result of the potential budget cuts. This would result in students who want to study business-related fields in their future to possibly struggle because they did not have the opportunity to take these classes while in school. Not only would certain programs not be offered, but this could also lead to consequences for students' health. The cutting of certain sports and physical education programs could leave many students without the opportunity to participate in these activities at all. Along with this, many school districts

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that go through budget cutting may implement a “pay-to-play” fee for sports or extracurricular activities, and not everyone can afford these costs due to financial struggles. When financial barriers restrict these opportunities, students may feel excluded from activities that some people may be able to participate in, while others cannot. Along with these classes at risk of being cut is the large possibility of teachers and staff members being removed from their jobs. Not only would this affect teachers and staff members because of the loss of their jobs and not being able to get paid, but it would also create consequences for students and campuses as a whole. With fewer teachers, this will lead to larger numbers of students in classrooms and a higher student-to-teacher ratio in the remaining classes offered on certain campuses. An increase in class sizes would also result in less individual attention from teachers to students, which may negatively impact students' learning and understanding of certain topics being covered in class. While not all teachers are at risk of being cut, many teachers are likely to have less planning time for lessons. This budget proposal aims to eliminate planning periods for many middle and high school teachers. As a result, this could limit the time teach-

ers have set aside for grading assignments and lesson preparations. Negative outcomes such as teacher burnout and increased overtime can develop because of this. In the big picture, the prevention of these proposed budget cuts is not something that can easily be fixed or worked around. KUT News explains how, in order for AISD to keep running, these cuts need to be made to prevent bankruptcy. These budget cuts are being pushed as a result of the declining number of student enrollment, the dropping of property values, especially in Austin, and the overall statewide underfunding of numerous public schools and their districts. The effects of these proposed budget cuts need to be stated for the purpose of the AISD district and its schools. AISD has many scheduled meeting opportunities open for Austin to express their opinions on these cuts. As a community, it is our job to express our concerns on these budget cuts. Ultimately, this financial gap will require a lot of effort to resolve, and navigating through the effects of the cuts will be difficult. We must familiarize ourselves with the changes and effects on campuses that will potentially be made in the upcoming school years, so we know what to expect for the future schools.

Increasing gas prices are causing a crisis will spend an extra $857 the rest of the year due to just gas prices. To some people cutting Questions? Concerns? Email: bowie.journalism@gmail. down on traveling or higher end purchases isn't a big deal, but Right as we thought gas for lower to mid income houses, prices were lowering after the filling their car is a big part of last gas inflation, prices shot up their budget. again, making the average gas Another thing that gas prices price in Austin, Texas, exceed are affecting is the Federal $3.68. Gas should never be this Reserve, which is the Central high in price, and the price it is now is impacting people all over Bank of the United States and manages the nation’s money the United States. Some people supply and regulates interest already can’t even afford gas for rates. The prices are affecting their car, making this dramatic the Federal Reserve's effort to rise a big deal. lower inflation, instead forcing But why did this massive it to keep interest rates higher.. change happen? According to If this problem does not get Congress.gov, as of April, 2026, solved, it could lead to peothe U.S. is having geopolitiple spending larger amounts cal issues with Iran, with Iran of money which would cause producing 20% of the world's economic cooldown, which is gas. Iran also has control of the a natural slowing of economic Strait of Hormuz, The strait growth after a period of rapid has been closed to most interexpansion. It could also increase national shipping due to the unemployment. war causing the gas prices rise The gas prices are also eating everywhere. Prior to the cloaway at high school students' sure of the savings, strait, gas was forcing them roughly $2.60 To some people cutting to pay much to $2.98 per more at the down on traveling or gallon compump for a pared to the higher end purchases gallon of gas. $3.68 it is isn't a big deal, but for This is hard now, which is to resolve, no lower to mid income a big differone wants to ence. households, gas is a big spend extra The rising part of their budget. money that cost of gas they worked is making for on gas. households This makes strain their budgets due to students have to work more having to save for gas, making hours just to cover the expenses families cut down on buying of inflation, so on top of long groceries, dining out, traveling, hours at school, they have to and other expenses. Some have even switched to all-electric cars work overtime just to cover personal expenses and gas prices. to try to prevent the inflation When forced to cut back on and extra costs that gas prices driving, some teenage drivers cause. According to the Stanford feel like they are losing their Institute for Economic Policy independence, resorting to Research, the average household Chelsea Rodgers Dispatch Reporter

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D ISPATCH STAFF

having to walk places and carpooling to save money. But for students involved in sports and outside of school extracurricular activities, driving is a necessity. Students are having to rethink their spending habits just to be able to make it to school or their sports practices. Some people might argue that the gas prices rising promote long-term benefits, like reducing carbon emissions, encouraging renewable energy, and decreasing the dependency on fossil fuels. The high prices can also improve transportation, and make more people jump on a bus to save money. While gas prices may be linked to longterm environmental goals, it does not happen automatically. Instead it forces financial struggles to many households and to

many areas, there are no public transits as an alternative. Higher fuel costs increase the cost of living, rather than solving environmental issues. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, to help with the gas crisis you can drive 5-10 mph slower which improves oil efficiency while also improving your gas mileage by 15% to 30%. You can also make sure if you're idle for more than a minute to turn your car off to not waste fuel, keep your tires inflated, which reduces rolling resistance. Underinflated tires are soft, creating more surface friction which makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Also make sure to carpool whenever possible, so not only you, but also your friends can be saving gas to beat inflation.

It’s that deep ICE

COMMENTARY 11

Doctor Trump to the rescue THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 THE DISPATCH

Trump faces growing criticism after offensive social media post

A rebrand can not fix ICE

Diego Cardenas Staff Reporter

Claire Ferrante Staff Reporter

Questions? Concerns? Email: bowie.journalism@gmail.

Questions? Concerns? Email: bowie.journalism@gmail.com

Donald Trump has made a clear suggestion that Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be renamed to National Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or otherwise known as NICE. His idea is that by giving ICE this fresh rebrand, it will lead immigration enforcement to appear more humane and altruistic. But why make this organization sound compassionate towards others when they are ripping apart families every day? Trump’s primary goal for this name change is that the media is forced to say “NICE agents” in order to “troll the libs”, but changing the name won’t change the problem. According to the whitehouse.gov, ICE agents have deported over half a million individuals since Trump’s current presidency and are continuing to do so everyday. Many cases of these deportations split parents and children apart, causing severe emotional harm. Is this what we want in our country? For the children of our country? Kids have come home from school to find a parent or even both of their parents gone, taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, left to take care of themselves. This causes families to lose sources of income and causes intense emotional trauma for the children. Does that sound NICE to you? This extreme measure causes immense fear, even among immigrants who have not committed crimes and, in some cases, are American citizens. Parents are afraid to go to work, students are worried family members will be gone when they come back from a day of learning, and people are even avoiding places of importance like hospitals or police stations in fear of getting deported. This is not the “freedom” America has promised immigrants. Students should not have to worry more about their parents getting deported than about their grades in school. Some supporters of ICE claim that these immigration laws need enforcement and that border security is important. But enforcement can exist without cruelty. There have been at least eight fatal shootings by Immigration and Customs Enforcement just this year, according to congress.gov, which is unacceptable. Why should people be expected to trust a government agency that harms its own people? Trump supporters claim that immigrants are causing harm to the economy, but immigrants make up 19% of the workforce and participate in the labor market at significantly higher rates compared to the native-born population. This means that these “illegal aliens” are making our country’s economy better every year. It is irrational to require immigrants to “just have their forms filled out” when the immigration process takes years or even decades to be processed. Families struggling in war-torn countries don’t have time to wait that long and it’s inhumane to expect them to. Re-branding this organization would belittle the harm it has caused to our country and insinuate that these violent acts of deportation are morally correct. If leaders want ICE to become more humane, they must change the policies and how they treat immigrants, not just the name.

Recently President Donald Trump has faced backlash for a photo posted on his Instagram. Usually this wouldn’t be an issue but in this case it is. People are reportedly saying he depicted himself as a Jesus-like character. Trump has dismissed these claims saying it was “me as a doctor.” Yet this is not the first time Trump has gotten backlash on a photo posted to social media. In 2025 he posted himself directly wearing the traditional vestments of the pope. In an interview a reporter asked Trump who he would like to see become the next supreme pontiff, he responded by saying “I’d like to be pope.” He got backlash from the photo due to the fact he posted it just days after former Pope Francis passed away. As the President of the United States, Trump should take more time in deciding what and what not to post on his social media accounts. Some things posted on his Instagram are insensitive and offensive to various groups of people. As the man running this country, Trump should try getting as many people to like him as possible. Posting offensive photos and videos on your Instagram doesn’t help the case. It’s almost comical to know that the man running the country I live in uses artificial intelligence on photos to make him look even more silly. Having a good digital footprint is a nice thing to have for someone like President Trump. A digital footprint is almost like a big file storing and remembering everything you’ve done on the internet. It’s a record left behind from all of your online actions. It consists of things such as things you

PHOTOS BY Diego Cardenas

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post online, things you’ve liked ondoctor photo was posted. It’s also worth line, emails,browsing history, and even knowing that President Trump did not things like web forms. Most people apologize for either of the photos menlike to keep a good digital footprint for tioned. things like job opportunities and to keep Trump is no stranger to catching fire a good reputation. Having a bad digital from his social media posts. Some varifootprint can have a negative effect on ous examples being, on February 5 when you. Posting offensive photos or videos Trump posted an artificially made image on social media is an example of a bad of former President Barack Obama and digital footprint, his wife Michelle doing this can depicted as apes, have people think posting a long It’s supposed to be me as of you in a negamessage about tive way. Pope Leo XIV a doctor, making people Both Trump’s calling him “weak feel better. And I do make doctor photo and on crime” and his pope photo “weak on nuclear people better. I make were both postweapons.” Anpeople a lot better ed on the official other example of White House Inwhen he used AI stagram page and to create an image Trump’s personal was when he account. Both posed during the accounts were fully aware of what they No Kings march of him wearing a crown were posting and had no intention to in a fighter jet named “king Trump,” take it down until they caught backlash dropping excrement on protesters. from people like religious leaders, conA simple solution is to simply think servative allies, and even lawmakers. before you post something the whole Even these important figures knew internet can see. Having a bad digital what was posted was wrong and offenfootprint can be bad for anyone’s self sive. “God shall not be mocked,” activimage. Another solution to the issue ist Riley is having Trump hire a more reliable Gaines person to run his social media so he wrote doesn’t have to fight backlash anymore after for his posts. One more solution is getthe ting a second opinion on ideas to post. Asking someone you trust if it’s a good idea to post something you’re unsure about then that can help you get another opinion on it. Trump has made mistakes posting on social media before. But it gets to a point, It’s almost like he knows what he’s posting is wrong, yet he still posts it again and again. Something needs to change, if it’s someone running his socials or just thinking before posting. Even at my young age I know that it’s best to think about what you’re about to show all of the interent, rather than posting it without thought. It’s almost embarrassing to know that he addressed the situation while picking up food.

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BULLDAWGS SPEAK!

INTERVIEWS BY Sawyer Daniel

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How do you feel about the recent budget cuts from AISD?

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Miles Osobase Freshman

I don’t like budget cuts because they take away some of our teachers salaries.

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I think that AISD is making the wrong decision on what they’re cutting because sports and extracurriculars are important

AISD in general contributes way too much to the Robin Hood recapture program

Bryce Beggs

Alexa Sanders

Sophomore

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Lucas Geleitsmann Junior

I don’t like the budget cuts because they take away important learning times.

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Senior

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Alejandro Garcia History Teacher

It is sad for the future of our high school that the future of public education is underfunded.

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12 SENIORS

SENIOR goodbyes

THE DISPATCH THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

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Staff Members A message from the Dispatch leadership team The years on the Dispatch publication have taught us all the important qualities of leadership, meeting deadlines and working as a team. Stepping into leadership roles as juniors with only one year of staff behind us brought challenges, but not defeat. The most important lesson taught through our years on staff was persistence, as stepping into roles as young leaders of an accomplished publication was not easy. Our persistence showed us that even with a lack of direct training we could create exceptional papers and great online content. The work and

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possible without the support of the previous Dispatch leadership teams who got us started two years ago. As a student-lead publication, the Dispatch has always had a heavy influence on training between upper and lower classmen students, it has been the Editors before us that make the paper a possibility. A special shout-out to past leadership who trained us while still working tirelessly to create the award-winning paper themselves. Without their belief in us and the publication the paper would be nowhere near as excellent as it is today.

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Through the countless stress, tears, joyous moments, and exhilarating experiences on staff, we would like to share our appreciation for adviser Michael Reeves for providing the space to form a tight knit community rooted through our publication and the constant determination you show to us to produce an outstanding product. Your hours of editing, bad music, coaching conversations, critics, dad jokes and support is nothing short of admirable. Through budget cuts and instability, you find a way for us to produce all six papers, each one

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better than the last. You care about us as students and beyond that as people, we appreciate you so much. The overwhelming sense of appreciation to be part of the Dispatch goes beyond letters on a page or website, but roots us into a community of brilliant scholarly individuals and the joy that producing creative content brings to all of us. Thank you for the four years on an astonishing publication.

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