The Oracle-May 2023

the

Oracle

Stratford High School • May 2023 • Vol. 50 • Issue 4

WHAT NEXT? Staff Shortages (3) • Student Advocacy (6) • Mental Health Crisis (7) • Graduation (9)

table of contents

letter from the editors Hello Spartans!

It is Oracle tradition to have the next year’s editors manage the last issue of the year. So, give it up for the 2023-2024 Editorial Board!

We are so excited to see what they do in the future.

Our goal with a magazine is to re-engage our audience with recurring columns and interactive sections, so you can be a part of the publication as well.

Our publication is entirely studentproduced and student-funded, so please keep in mind that we might make mistakes.

While the Oracle is Stratford’s official student magazine, opinions expressed by writers do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors, the staff, the administration, or the school district. Enjoy!

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Cover Designed By 2023-2024 Editorial Board

TALKING POINTS* Behind Bathroom Breaks, a Breaking Staff (pg. 3) Planet in Peril (pg. 4) TikTok Bans: Suppression or Protection? (pg. 4) The Power is in the Palm of Your Hand (pg. 6) Mental Health is Wealth (pg. 7)

8-12

SENIORS

staff

Editors-in-Chief Ashley Cooper Nic Rhew Associate Editors Anna Rigo Nathan Seelig Mircea Tatulescu Design Editor Kate Sullivan Photo Editors Dana Akkad Macy Delgadillo Ava Johnson Caroline Larrabee Christian Vandenburg News Editor Isabella Villalobos Sports Editor Jacob Hare Student Life Editor Ella McWilliams Perspectives Editor Abby Stallworth Reporters Cristina Amado Cobo Amanda Ashebu Abdulaziz Aziz Eszter Badescu Alexandra Bell Riana Bhattacharjee Caleb Boerm

2

Saying Goodbye to Stratford’s Finest (pg. 8) Reflections on Four Years (pg. 8) Spartans Across the Country (pg. 10-11) Spartans Take on Texas (pg. 12) Leslie Garcia Trey Gardner William Jones Emma Manalo Anna Petruzzi Ellie Presa Russell Robinson Sophie Sagastume Caroline Walker Mariam Zaghloul JP Zambrano Photographers Xavier Alexander Semra Berilgen Andrew Cannon Emily Capps Audrey Connolly Cesar Garza Pamanes Giselle Gillett Montanah Hobbs Ireh Kang Benjamin Pearl Mariana Rodriguez J’Mari Shorter Kamari Stanfill Bruno Tobias Caroline Walker Copy Editors Shelby Blackwood Catherine McClees Adviser: Sara Boyle

14-16

ATHLETICS Rockets and Flop-ets (pg. 14) A New Level (pg. 16)

18

SPARTANS SAY Singing Peers and Ringing Ears (pg. 18) Overheard (pg. 18)

pg. 7

pg. 16

the

*Our new Talking Points section is intended to spotlight issues students are concerned about. These articles are students’ opinions and do not reflect the views of SBISD.

Oracle

Behind Bathroom Breaks, a Breaking Staff

Head custodian attributes locked bathrooms and messy spaces to student behavior WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY SOPHIE SAGASTUME (10) After 161 days of school this year, I’d say many of us have set a daily routine. Wake up, drive to school, go to class and waste 10 minutes of math class looking for a usable restroom.

It’s fine, really. I’m not particularly fond of integrals and derivatives, anyway.

But it makes you wonder: for a school that boasts a bathroom on each floor’s corner, is it really something to be proud of when nearly every one is locked? And when they are unlocked, I can’t say clogged toilets, broken doors and scribbled vulgarities make for decent scenery, either.

Head custodian Rosa Monge agrees. But as one person, the burden of cleaning up after 2192 students is one she is unable to carry.

And she shouldn’t have to. Because while students may find it unfair that the irresponsibilities of some of their peers affect the flow of their school day, the most unfair aspect of the matter is the neglect with which they are willing to treat the custodians they don’t see, the custodians they don’t hear, yet the custodians they need.

Monge blames restrooms’ disarray on students. In her opinion, “90% of [the problem] is students’ fault, while only about 10% falls on custodians.”

That 10% isn’t because custodians aren’t doing their job and suddenly don’t want to clean. It’s because their already toosmall group is stretched too thin.

To handle the current state of the restrooms, the custodian staff “needs to have 11 members,” Monge said. “Today, I have six, but two started yesterday.”

When Monge worked at Memorial Middle School, a similar-sized team was responsible for maintaining two floors and 18 bathrooms. Now, however, she’s responsible for three floors and 25 bathrooms.

Even so, three bathrooms per custodian appears strenuous, but Memorial Middle’s bathrooms are entirely unlike ours. That’s because they had unique ways to balance custodians’ workload — ways that Strat-

ford must learn from. “[The Memorial Middle administration] would have one teacher at each restroom that observed when students entered and when they left,” Monge said. “Then, they would go in and make sure it wasn’t left dirty.”

High school students should, in theory, expect a little more freedom than middle schoolers. However, when their actions lend themselves to the belief that their freedom will come before the well-being of others, staff members should step in and take some of it away. Mr. Barnes and the assistant principals do not have the power to assign more custodians to Monge’s group, but they have a unique power nonetheless: ensuring that each student at Stratford is respectful of custodians and their wishes.

“I’ve tried to tell [students eating in restrooms] that they shouldn’t be doing it, but they’ll insult me or simply not listen,” Monge said.

The descriptions of the bathrooms she walks into paint students in an unforgiving light. In fact, her insight goes directly against that of most students: while students feel failed by Monge, Monge and her team have been failed by students.

“We clean in the evenings, so in the mornings the restrooms are clean,” she said. “But by lunchtime, they’re back to a mess.”

Scattered paper, bodily fluids and food scraps on the floor are some of the visuals she frequently encounters. When they mar the walls or the smell of vapes lingers, the only solution is to lock the restroom off completely.

“The bathrooms themselves have been getting better, but students’ behavior has been worsening,” Monge continued. “There are some calm periods, but [students] get particularly bad near the end of the month.”

An environment where students don’t respect others and an environment where they don’t feel respected aren’t mutually exclusive. But taking frustrations aimed at classmates or administrators out on custodians will only worsen that environment further.

“When students continue dirtying the restrooms, [custodians] have less time to clean other [communal spaces],” Monge said. “In some classrooms, we may only have time to clean the floors, so the desks might not have been cleaned that day.”

If students are after change, their best course of action is to look after their behavior and that of their friends. For example, don’t eat lunch upstairs, even if a teacher has given you permission.

“I know some teachers let their students eat in their class, but we have to clean the crumbs off their floor, even if they don’t care what their classroom looks like,” Monge said. “I’m not referring to [snacks], I mean the full lunch [students are] served.”

When you’re in the restroom, take an extra second to make sure your toilet paper and paper towels have gone in their respective places. Just because there are other papers on the floor doesn’t mean yours belong there, too. And just because Monge and her team are currently picking them up doesn’t mean they should have to.

I’ve been annoyed with the state of some of our facilities in the past. But the reality is clear: petty complaints among our social circles are unproductive and will not procure a solution. Not while the problem has been permeating the school for years. Not while the problem is largely ignored by both students and the current administration. Not while some of our most dedicated staff members are locked out of the conversation as frequently as we’re getting locked out of restrooms.

talking points 3

PLANET IN PERIL

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY COOPER (12) AND ISABELLA VILLALOBOS (12) In a changing climate, little of brine shrimp and devastate the the world is safe. seafood industry.

Human activities have There are several solutions significantly advanced climate you can carry out in your daily change. Many point to use of life in order to ease the effects greenhouse gasses, ineffective of climate change. One way waste management and is trying a plant-based diet. poor environmental care as According to the U.S. Food and significant factors.

Agriculture Organization, the Specific cities feel the effects meat and dairy industries alone to a greater extent than others. use one third of the Earth's Venice, for example, is fresh water. threatened as its canals At SHS, Life Skills classes continue to flood. help implement one of the Many other cities near or most effective solutions: below sea level, such as New recycling. On Fridays, students Orleans, New York City, and collect the paper scraps and London, will eventually be cardboard boxes teachers have underwater, so long as climate in their classrooms. change persists.

The effects of climate change Beyond potential cultural are undoubtedly alarming, losses, the economic but awareness is motivation uncertainties in a warming to improve personal behavior. world are dire.

Partaking in these solutions The Great Salt Lake, for not only shows support for instance, is expected to dry up a healthy environment, but within five years; this would mitigates the harms of previous decimate the global supply of human activities.

TIKTOK BANS: SUPPRESSION OR PROTECTION?

Implementing the RESTRICT Act and DATA Act will void long-standing legislation

WRITTEN BY CRISTINA AMADO COBO (12) AND CHRISTIAN VANDENBURG (12) For most teenagers, TikTok the act has been met with a involve “information and is an integral part of their daily lot of pushback for various communication technology” routine, and statistics clearly reasons. and create “undue or support this assumption.

RESTRICT Act opponents unacceptable risk” to national Currently, the average user often refer to the vague security. spends 95 minutes on the app language throughout the bill.

The DATA act, introduced on daily.

For example, the legislation Feb. 24, 2023, works alongside As a result, many parents are fails to clarify what the oft-used the RESTRICT Act, similarly worried that their children’s term “foreign adversary” is. intending prohibit the transfer data is stored and potentially Many also mention that there of “sensitive personal data” to utilized without their consent. is a clear lack of transparency “foreign persons influenced by To combat this, Senator Mark throughout the bill.

China.”

Warner proposed two new The RESTRICT Act also The DATA Act clarifies bills to address TikTok and its potentially voids other statutes language used in The parent company, Byte Dance: that have been passed prior International Emergency The RESTRICT Act and the to this bill’s introduction, Economic Powers Act, which DATA Act. including the Berman clarifies what the president The RESTRICT Act, Amendments, which protect can regulate regarding foreign introduced Mar. 7, 2023, will the free flow of information in owned property. restrict the Chinese owned and out of the United States.

This bill also contains new ByteDance from potentially The RESTRICT Act powers for the president to harvesting data from United would also void the Berman impose sanctions on foreign States citizens.

Amendments as it allows the persons that “knowingly The bill would help mitigate Executive Branch to block [operate], [direct], or [deal] foreign technological threats. “transactions” and “holdings” in a connected software Despite the intended benefits, of “foreign adversaries” that application that is subject to

4 talking points

the jurisdiction of China.”

Again, this bill has developed controversy regarding its language and lack of transparency.

Many parents recognize potential concerns but believe that the app provides helpful content.

"I don't like that it's run through servers the Chinese government has control of, but I like that it shows me content based on my interests," parent Frank Whyte said.

Students also appreciated the highly digestible content.

"I like TikTok because it's brainless," senior Isabella Sanchez said.

The RESTRICT Act and DATA Act must be passed into law before they affect any users, but vague wording and political controversey threaten success.

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The Power is in the Palm of Your Hand How social media has reshaped the idea of student activism WRITTEN BY CAROLINE LARRABEE (11) AND SOPHIE SAGASTUME (10) Many have seen them. Many have shared them. Many have written them. And many have wondered: Are those Instagram posts actually going to change anything?

In response to growing social turmoil on a local, state, national and even global level, teens have found manners of sharing their opinions and beliefs on online platforms. The most widespread? Instagram slideshows packed with statistics and resources for adults and students alike.

Our hesitations with this form of advocacy were, understandably, two-fold: “Is it effective enough?” and “Is it fear mongering instead of educating?”

After the violent killings of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, passionate advocates walked down streets, while millions scrolled down Instagram feeds.

That disparity isn’t inherently harmful, though. The hashtag “Black Lives Matter” garnered over 26 million posts, serving as an effective platform for anti-racist resources and anecdotes directly from those impacted. However, on June 2, 2020, Instagram users added a new layer to their advocacy through #BlackoutTuesday.

Movement proponents agreed to post a black square on their feeds in protest against police brutality. Black music executives Jamila Thomas and Brianna Agyemang began their movement as a day “to intentionally disrupt the work week, to take a beat for an honest, reflective and productive conversation around what actions we need to collectively take to support the Black community.”

The campaign was quickly warped to fit the performative wants of younger activists. The once resource-filled hashtag was now void of information, decorated with unproductive squares. By the end of that day, #BlackoutTuesday had amassed 24 million posts, while petitions to arrest George Floyd’s killers barely scratched 12 million signatures, Ahmaud Arbery’s petition had just over 3 million signatures and Breonna Taylor’s petition had under 2 million signatures. While this movement was not ill-intentioned, it publicized a

6 talking points

harmful image of the dangers of performative activism.

Even if they share helpful resources, however, some advocates take their rhetoric to the extreme. Shortly before President Joe Biden approved the Willow oil drilling project in Alaska, climate activists began sharing information on social media in an attempt to persuade the administration to reject the proposal.

The problem arose when these users took their emotional appeals too far. Instead of instilling a desire to act within everyday citizens, these posts instilled fear within many of their viewers. While they were circulating, Google search trends reflected the public’s panic: the search “Will the Willow Project kill us?” was a trending topic on the engine.

Environmental engineer Berry (@theberrybestt) said it best via a post of her own: “Misinformation and fear mongering is another means of controlling the public.”

She went on to note multiple posts that use inaccurate and exaggerated statistics.

One of these statistics, that the Willow Project would release 287 million metric tons of CO2, was taken from a credible estimate from the Biden administration, but necessary context wasn’t provided. The administration stated the project could generate enough oil to release 9.2 million metric tons of CO2 a year — 287 million is derived from using that estimate to calculate what could be released over 30 years.

The simple nature of most posts makes it easy for creators to exclude important information, and without widespread means of fact-checking, millions of users are exposed to inaccurate content via explore pages.

Not every user aims to distress their followers, though. In fact, as long as outlets and other accounts are transparent about their sources and research, posts like these may be the key to getting a younger generation involved in important discussions.

Currently, many high school students feel that their voice or actions aren’t “enough” to propel advocacy further. In fact, some express worry that, by speaking out or

saying “the wrong thing,” discussion may be stopped altogether.

“Sometimes I fear that, if I say what I’m really thinking, classmates — or even random strangers — may judge me for my opinions,” sophomore Sophie Myers said.

When news organizations cater to younger audiences’ interests and personal connections to an event, however, those audiences are more likely to engage with a post and research or act of their own accord.

We saw this scenario play out when the Oracle posted an infographic that highlighted key points from Superintendent Jennifer Blaine’s press conference on April 13, 2023. The post shared pressing statistics about SBISD’s quickly diminishing budget in a highly digestible format, reaching over 2,200 students and faculty members.

High schoolers across the district had access to clear, concise information that they could easily spread to their friends and family. With the phone numbers of state representatives and a simple script to follow, advocating for SBISD was simplified tremendously.

Digital advocacy often finds itself struggling between sharing facts and sharing falsities. However, after observing how Stratford students interacted with posts of this nature following news of SBISD’s potential budget cuts, we’ve determined that, ultimately, turning to social media is a step in the right direction.

Interested in viewing the Oracle’s coverage of SBISD’s potential budget cuts? Find it on our Instagram @shsoracle!

Ment a l Hea lth is Wea lth The importance of supporting mental well-being on campus WRITTEN BY ESZTER BADESCU (11) AND ISABELLA VILLALOBOS (12) ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY EMILY CAPPS (11) AND CAROLINE WALKER (11) Many are fully cognizant of the importance of mental health. At Stratford, weekly Spartan Time lessons often emphasize that prioritizing our well-being will help us handle stress, connect with others and make healthy, rational decisions.

Are these brief lessons enough, or can Stratford adapt its resources to better serve an evolving population? We interviewed students and faculty to address whether the provided services were sufficient enough to counterbalance school stresses and how Community In Schools (CIS) could potentially fill this gap.

Junior Lucy Weiss elaborated on her mental health journey, most importantly about how schoolwork has contributed to her stresses. Weiss is extremely concerned over the way mental health is discussed.

Weiss vouches that caring for one’s mental wellness can improve many aspects of life.

“I believe mental health strongly contributes to your appearance, motivation, and general well being,” Weiss said.

Weiss feels that school work is clearly a leading factor of her mental health struggles.

“My mental health is so much worse when I’m in school,” Weiss said. “I’m always under so much pressure and stress because of school and it’s this huge burden on [me].”

Weiss explains that sometimes school sets unrealistic expectations, which can be too much for students to handle all at once.

“Schools should have a better understanding that mental health is a severe issue and that school is actually a leading factor for poor mental health in students,” Weiss said.

She does believe that there is ample room for growth, especially if Stratford can better implement its services.

“Maybe being a little less strict about some things, because [students] already go through so much,” she said.

Weiss believes that schools must strive to change the stigma surrounding discussions about mental health.

“I think [mental health] should be talked

about and even taken care of all the time,” Weiss said. “Not just when something [bad] happens.”

Change on campus is possible if Stratford can plan new ways to address mental health crises. Most importantly, Weiss believes that schools should be more vocal and articulate about the resources they have to offer struggling students.

CIS counselor Mandy Kolbaba agrees that many students don’t know her services are available.

“We are underutilized but we are here,” Ms. Mandy said.

Ms. Mandy works alongside Melody Hall (Ms. Mel), and both are always eager to speak with whoever needs assistance.

“CIS is a good mental health resource for students and faculty members on campus,” Ms. Mandy said.

The CIS social workers have been working hard to publicize their resources.

“We are partnered with Stratford PTSA to help spread the word about who we are and what we do,” Ms. Mandy said.

The Stratford PTSA and Spartans For Change, a club sponsored by Ms. Mel, work hard to advertise their resources, but believe true change starts outside of the campus.

“I honestly think Stratford can improve their mental health services with parental involvement,” Ms. Mel said. “Students can create a more supportive and aware environment.”

Stratford students and faculty often experience extreme mental strain, frequently due to their schoolwork.

Stratford must adapt their current policies to accommodate for the distress they impose.

And while significant strides must be made, Stratford is currently providing ample resources that many students remain unaware of. Ms. Mandy and Ms. Mel are ready to discuss with students, no matter how significant a problem may seem.

Mental health must be a priority at Stratford, and resources are always avaliable to those willing to reach out.

“You can come in for mental health resources or supportive guidance and outside support,” the CIS workers said. “We are here for you. Whatever that may look like.”

• Globally, one out of seven 10-19-yearolds experiences a mental disorder (World Health Organization) • 50% of lifetime cases of mental illness begins at 14 years of age (Adolescent Wellness Academy) • Among children living below 100% of the federal poverty level, more than 1 in 5 (22%) had a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder (CDC) • Having another mental disorder was most common in children with depression: about 3 in 4 children with depression also had anxiety (CDC)

Mental Health Resources At Stratford:

Ms. Mandy (MKolbaba@cishouston.org) Ms. Mel (MHall@cis-houston. org)

Both counselors are available in the nurse hallway and grade level counselors can be found in the grade level offices.

National Hotlines: Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 988 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: (800) 6624357

talking points 7

Saying Goodbye to

Reflections on the

Stratford’s Finest

Last Four Years

Mary Jackson retires after 43 years, leaving behind a powerful legacy

Seniors discuss the highlights and lowlights of their high school career

WRITTEN BY NIC RHEW (12)

WRITTEN BY ELLA MCWILLIAMS (12)

For the past 43 years, accounting teacher and Student Council sponsor Mary Jackson has been serving our school and community in the most uplifting way.

Jackson began to teach at Stratford in 1980 after graduating from Texas A&M University.

She originally taught social studies, but she quickly moved to teaching business classes.

Jackson has experienced many changes while at Stratford America. When she first started teaching, there were no computers, and every student had to be taught on electric typewriters.

“Computers and cell phones have probably been the biggest changes I’ve seen in the classes I teach,” Jackson said.

When coming into high school, many people have certain expectations about what their classes are going to be like, what activities or clubs they will participate in and who they will be friends with throughout their time at Stratford.

We asked seniors to look back on their high school years and describe the expectations — and realities — of their experiences.

“I’ll always be a Spartan! No Spartan stands alone!”

Mary Jackson

Jackson has implemented many of the traditions that students know and love today.

As the Student Council sponsor, she was the trailblazer for projects like Big Day, painting the water tower, installing the granite sign in front of the school, Food Truck Fridays, Hall Street Journals, lip dubs, courtyard beautification, 5th Quarter, and the annual Homecoming Canned Food Drive, just to name a few.

Business teacher Ms. Schaper, her colleague of more than 30 years, wonders how the school will run without her next year.

“MJ is Stratford America,” Schaper said. “She has the pulse of Stratford. I’ll miss her energy and enthusiasm about everything the most.”

Above all else, however, Jackson wants to be remembered on campus for “hopefully making a positive impact on the 7500 students [she has] taught over the years.”

There is no denying the magnitude of the impact she has had on our school.

She owes her fulfilling career to working at her dream job.

“My advice to future students is find your passion and always do what makes you happy,” she said. “If you enjoy your job, you don’t work a day in your life.”

8 seniors

Q: What did you think was going to be the hardest part of high school?

Camille Gagnon: I thought the hardest part of high school was going to be finding my way through the school.

Cade Hanlen: Junior year. It’s just a known tale that it sucks.

The curriculum is definitely the hardest.

Mircea Tatulescu: I thought the hardest part of high school was going to be the SAT and college application process during my junior and senior years.

Q: What was actually the hardest part of high school?

Camille Gagnon: The hardest part of high school was actually balancing extracurriculars, homework, and studying.

Mircea Tatulescu: The hardest part of high school was understanding electromagnetism (but it was worth it).

Cade Hanlen: How busy you are and just trying to juggle everything.

Q: What was the most fun part of high school?

Hank Hall: Being able to choose my schedule, take classes I want to take, and hang out with the people I wanted to be with.

Cade Hanlen: Definitely the sports. Whether you’re playing in the game or watching it, it’s always so much fun.

Q: What class were you surprised you enjoyed?

Camille Gagnon: Economics.

Mircea Tatulescu: Physics C. Q: If you could change one thing about your high school experience, what would it be?

Hank Hall: I would say to involve myself more socially. I wasn’t zoned to go here, I was zoned to Memorial, so my friend groups shifted and I didn’t take an active role in creating new friend groups.

Cade Hanlen: I wish I studied more during junior year.

Mircea Tatulescu: I wish I had started orchestra earlier and tried harder in my classes.

class of 2023

PHOTO BY REESE SPRADLING (9)

seniors 9

COMPILED BY CAROLINE LARRABEE (11) AND EMMA MANALO (11)

IDAHO

WASHINGTON

Brigham Young University Karla Chazari

University of Washington

IOWA Grand View University

Yuto Komiya

Triston Williams

COLORADO Fort Lewis College Siena Yoder

University of Colorado Boulder Callye Alpard Avery Johnston Imogen Parenti

University of Denver Sophia Cornell

CALIFORN IA San Diego State University Bennett Swires

Southern California Institute of Architecture Sofia Talbi

Stanford University Jean Hoang

University of California Davis Anna Petruzzi

UTAH Brigham Young University Patricia Suarez Elias Tacam

University of Utah Skylar George Austin LaRue Macey Timmerman

MILITARY Air Force

Richard Beasley

Marines

Alexa Huerta Isaiah Matias Ethan Todd

OKLAHOMA University of Oklahoma Austin Beaver Lauren Boerm Belle Burkhart Ava Cofran Mattie Edwards Kendall Emery Ella Everett Charlotte Genez Jason Kaimann Molly Johnson Ava Zander

Army

INT ERNAT IONAL

Navy

Sophia VanderHorst

Maybel Mendez Chloe Taylor Emely Zelaya

10 seniors

University of Stirling in Scotland

ARKANSAS Arkansas State University Wyatt McCulley

Hendrix College Asia Mackey

University of Arkansas Ella Bagnall Lana Colburn Tucker Copeland Jessica Jones Ethan Kling Elise LaVern Colten Schick

WORK/GAP Y R

MISSOU RI University of Missouri

Caroline Youngjohn

KANSAS

Southwestern College Travis Dunwoody

Nikki Pardo Jose Bruno Maya Lopez Christian Cavazos Cynthia McCollum Julian Perez David Rivas Irving Dimas Jairo Moreno Pedro Sosa Adrian Estrada Brandon Nava Andrew Witt

ILLINOIS Northwestern University Anna Rigo

IN DIANA

Loyola University Chicago

OHIO

MINN ESOTA

Baldwin Wallace University Nic Rhew

Massachussetts Institute of Technology

Indiana University Megan Broom Mackenna Mullins

Dany Sosa

MASSACHUSSETT S Emma Hickman

Northeastern University Sami Talje

University of Minnesota

N EW YORK

Elle Pickett Fred Kunick

Hofstra University

MICHIGAN

Lela Brinkley

University of Michigan

Manhattan College

Sammer Ali

Lauren Ahearn Julien Stuckwisch

New York University Sofia Fageria

SUNY ESF

Alexander Bautista

West Point

Kristin Geczik

RHODE ISLAN D Brown University Nathan Seelig

PENNSY LVAN IA Bryn Mawr College Bianca Perez Ouhirra

Penn State University Isabella Villalobos

University of Pennsylvania

Peter Hong

SOUT H CAROLINA

T ENN ESSEE

Belmont University Cristina Antunez

Vanderbilt University Emily Manuel

University of Tennessee Sarah White

LOU ISIANA ALABAMA Louisiana State University

Alex Bell Marissa Benson Sophia Choi Mazen Johar Zach Moore Recharde Pride Christian Vandenburg

Louisiana Tech University Brianna George

Tulane University JoJo Olagues

UL-Lafayette Anaya Menjivar

Auburn University Kirby Crow Molly Ledet Ethan Manry Will Messer Sarah Ryan Reagan Weber

University of Alabama

Annika de Jager Anna Kovacs Camille LaVern Abby Murphy Jackson Potter Campbell Timmerman Audrey Ware

University of South Carolina Aiken Justin Kaimann

Clemson

Sara Cate Cromack Emerson Pettey University of Georgia Abby Stallworth Hailey Bates Ella Crabtree Caroline Smith Lucy Tomlinson Virginia Tech

GEORGIA

V IRGIN IA

SCAD-Atlanta

FLORIDA

Janeen Abante

Florida International University Efren Alvarez

Florida State University Ava Johnson Paul Skoutelakis

University of Florida Claire Shea-han

University Paige Dial

MISSISSIPPI University of Mississippi Carolina Fisher Miah Hopkins Ashley Mahood

seniors 11

Taking on Texas Abilene Christian University

Lamar University

Austin Community College

Lone Star College

Ellie Stephenson

Cade Hanlen

Baylor University Mackenzie Arend Ellie Cunningham Andrew Erwin Jenna French Taylor Sanders Cody Zyroll

Blinn College Matthew Avery Blake Eschberger Elle Howell Fredrick Kang J’Mari Shorter Jordan Small Joshua Thornton Julia Waltz

Galveston College Amirah Witt

Hardin-Simmons University Jared Botary Nash Rankin

Houston Christian University Camila Herrero-Velarde Jenna Ramirez

Houston Community College Ali Alani Kasem Al Saleh Christian Arriaga Marilin Banda Santiago Colina Valentina Delgado Angel De la Rosa Kevin Gluck Izabella Imamovic Isaiah Kang Dayra Machado Samiyah Madrill Nevaeh Mahoney Daniel Moran Inaya Noor Russell Robinson Hayan Rajoub Mikey Vincent Radiance Willson Ashley Zavala

12 seniors

Iris Rodriguez

Salman Abuhussein Desiree Bradley Mariana Bran Isabella Brooks Sergio Caballero

Rice University Keanu Dawes Cooper King Hudson Perroni

Sam Houston State University Alessandra Acosta Adrianna Estrada Camden Evans William Watts

Southern Methodist University Nico Gualy Bailey Reoh Karina Rodgerson

St. Edwards University Ella Ten Wolde

Stephen F. Austin University Antonia Conkright Ryder Anderson Katelyn Valdez

Texas A&M University College Station Haley Ash Alex Borg Kyle Brown Caroline Bush Nataly Callaway Ashley Cardin Nicholas Castro Giancarlo Chelala Avery Crider Cameron Cronin Blake Daniels Ava de la Mora Cade Diamond Natalie Dinh Erica Eastman Maddie Ferrari Annie Gauderman Olivia Gonzalez Victoria Jimenez Gage Lancaster Abby Lumpkin Mary Mitchell

Lily Morrow Michael Mouton Ameera Muzny Patricia Muzny Bryce Oliphant Cole Overbergen Kristin Perry Meredith Piercy Luke Richardson Aiden Reichstein Paige Shepard Jacob Smith Willem Sola Isabel Stowe Paxton Terveen Zayn Tippitt Lindsey Thomas John White Will Youngblood Olivia Zander

Texas A&M University San Antonio Boniface Byshimo

Texas Christian University Luke Barre Alyssa Dearing Libby Dolan Melanie Genez Jillian Harris Charlotte Stephanow Ashley Zindler Megan Zuanich JP Zambrano

Texas State University

Melanie Anzaldua Gwendolyn Beach Anna Cashiola Alex Cruz Meagan Dickinson Lilah Epps Sultan Evans Vincenza Houck Ella Mai Antwone McDonald Isabella Sanchez Choyce Scranton Georges Servat Gabriella Thurow Ellie Whyte

Texas Tech University

Travis Britt Campbell Hayden Sydney Hayden Jos Johnson

Texas Woman’s University

Emma Whitton

Trinity University Ashley Cooper Stephanie Machado Pena Isabella Oliver Allison Ortiz Erik Rankin Bernice Thongdara

Universal Technical Institute David Spisak

University of Dallas Allison Zilafro

University of Houston

Dana Akkad Abdulaziz Aziz Shalimar Bachachi Nathan Garcia Kyla Key Darwin Moreno Kolbye Sangi Davian Vazquez

University of Houston Downtown

Karla Aliendres Yanez Marian Mavarez Nina Terry

University of Mary-Hardin Baylor

University of Texas at Dalla-

James Tejeda

Tristan Morrison

University of North Texas

University of Texas at San Antonio

Ciara Williams Isabella Lester

University of St. Thomas Cristina Amado Ebun Oyewole

University of Texas at Arlington Molly Higgins

University of Texas at Austin Weam Aldojan Charlie Baird Ryan Banan Eugenia Blanco Ivan Chan Audrey Clayton

Tara Daryani Hank Davis Caden DiPaolo Mia Gaal Camille Gagnon Jaquelyn Galvan Abby Gannon Bennett Garza Meredith Greer Arthur Ha Maja Jokic Hunter Jones Will Jones Ella Juarez Katherine Kim Payton Kooyman Mia Law Ella LeBoeuf Avery Lucksinger Lily McClanahan Ella McWilliams Lowell Moss Dylan Nakayama David Nederveld Amber Nguyen Quinn Otermat Julia Petruzzi Georgia Ritchie Asher Rigo Griffin Ross Matthew Seiler Kate Sullivan Mircea Tatulescu Anna Thielemann Harris Timmreck Peyton White William Wu

Andi Mercado Christian Merchan Melany Rodriguez Bruno Tobias

University of the Incarnate Word Olivia Abbott Rocket Dixon

West Texas A&M University Brayden Jones

COMPILED BY CAROLINE LARRABEE (11) AND EMMA MANALO (11)

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Rockets and Flop-ets In a city with sports teams that many love to hate, there is a lot to critique about the rebuilding process and management of each franchise

T EAMS, CU T T H E SLACKI NG

WRITTEN BY TREY GARDNER (11)

The lack of success for Houston sports teams can be attributed to a number of factors.

One major factor is the challenge of building and maintaining a successful sports franchise in a highly competitive landscape.

Houston is home to teams in all major professional sports leagues, which means that there is significant competition for both talent and fan attention.

In addition to that, each individual team in Houston has faced its own unique obstacles that have contributed to its lack of success.

For example, the Houston Texans have struggled to establish a consistent and effective quarterback in recent years. The instability at the quarterback position can make it difficult for the team to establish an effective offensive strategy and has been a major factor in the team’s struggles on the field.

financial resources.

The team has struggled with inconsistency in recent years, with a record of alternating between playoff appearances and non-qualifying seasons.

This lack of consistency can make it difficult to establish a sense of momentum.

It can also create difficulties with player retention and in team development.

Additionally, the Dynamo may face challenges in terms of financial resources compared to other teams in the league, which can impact the team’s ability to attract and retain top talent.

Overall, Houston’s lackluster sports presence is less due to a single reason and more due to a myriad of issues: heavy competition for talent and fan attention, lack of consistent leadership and vision, hurdles regarding on-field performance, a souring reputation, and cracking financial resources.

The Houston Astros have received criticism related to both on-field performance and off-field reputation.

The team was implicated in a sign-stealing scandal in 2019, which led to the suspension and firing of several key members of the coaching staff.

While the team has since made changes to address the issue, this scandal has had a lasting impact on the team’s name and achievements.

The Rockets have also faced challenges related to player turnover and rebuilding.

The team has historically been heavily reliant on star players, and the departure of those players can create speed bumps in terms of team chemistry and offensive strategy.

Unsurprisingly, the team’s rebuilding phase seeks to develop new talent and establish a new identity.

The Dynamo have dealt with complications related to both performance and

FANS, ST OP AT TACKI NG

WRITTEN BY JP ZAMBRANO (12)

The city of Houston is no stranger to sports; it houses famed baseball, football and basketball teams.

As of recently, there has been a lot of hate directed at our teams — most notably the Rockets and the Texans.

While they have had some really disappointing seasons in the past couple of years, there are many things to look forward to for each franchise.

The one thing that is important to note about both of these teams is that they are in the rebuilding phase, which means that they have lots of draft picks and are tanking for higher draft spots.

The Rockets just came out of a stunning season with a record of 22-60, which, while at face value is very disappointing, is actually a much better season than you would think.

First of all, the team was tanking this season to get the first overall pick and draft

ically, lost them the first overall pick.

This was a final goodbye from their previous head coach Lovey Smith, which frustrated the whole Texans fanbase, and rightfully so.

However, the Texans organization has wasted no time and started making moves.

With the hiring of its new head coach DeMeco Ryans and many solid signings like Devin Singletary and Dalton Schultz, this team is headed in the right direction.

After the Texans picked Kenyon Green in round one of the draft, it sets them up for a winning future.

Yes, it is frustrating to see these teams be so unsuccessful for so long; it makes complete sense why the fan base is so upset at times.

That being said, however, I believe that there are many things to look forward to as Houston teams rebuild. We should trust the process.

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Victor Wembanyama, the highest praised draft prospect ever.

The team also has many young and developing players, with Jalen Green continuing to have offensive explosions and Alperen Sengun emerging as one of the best steals of the 2021 draft.

The Rockets organization is developing a strong core to build around for years to come, and if they have a successful offseason they can hopefully land in a much better spot the next.

They also went on a couple of runs where they beat out the top teams in the league.

A solid draft along with the hiring of good veteran players and an experienced head coach would be a win.

As for the Texans, they’re having an even more interesting offseason.

Ending the 2022-23 season, the Texans somehow made a last ditch effort and won their final game of the season, which, com-

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A New Level

Class of 2023 commits speak about their experience in high school sports WRITTEN BY JACOB HARE (11) PHOTOS BY DANA AKKAD (12) Q: W ho has been your biggest influence in your sport and why?

A: Coach Siemers. He always wanted the best and was always there to help motivate. [He] always saw the potential you had.

Q: W hat has been your main motivation to continue?

A: Seeing what I am capable of.

Justin Kaimann University of South Carolina Aiken Cross Country/Track

Keanu Dawes Rice University Basketball

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Q: W hat year at Stratford was your favorite for your sport?

A: Freshman year [because the team was] undefeated [and a] top ten state team.

Q: W hat do you think made you stand out to these colleges?

A: My academics, progression and speed.

SENIOR COMMITMENTS FOOTBALL Jared Botary — Hardin-Simmons University Cooper King — Rice University Austin LaRue — University of Utah Hudson Perroni — Rice University Hawkins Polley — Baylor University Nash Rankin — Hardin-Simmons University James Tejeda — University of Mary-Hardin Baylor Triston Williams — Grand View University VOLLEYBALL Olivia Abbott — University of Incarnate Word Sharlotte McClintock — West Texas A&M Skylar George — University of Utah Emma Hickman — MIT Nina Terry — Maryville University SOCCER Lauren Ahearn — Manhattan College Kristin Geczik — USMA-West Point Elizabeth Pretzantzin — Shaw University Allison Zilafro — University of Dallas

Q: W ho has been your biggest influence in your sport and why?

A: Probably mom, she motivates me, I play for her.

BASEBALL Brecken Menuet — McLennan College Paxton Terveen — Texas A&M University

Q: W hat has been your main motivation to continue?

A: Seeing people improve and improving with them.

BASKETBALL Keanu Dawes — Rice University Travis Dunwoody — Southwestern College

Q: W hat year at Stratford was your favorite for your sport?

A: This year because as a team it was super together and I loved playing.

XC/TRACK Justin Kaimann — South Carolina-Aiken Sienna Yoder — Ft. Lewis College

Q: W hat do you think made you stand out to these colleges?

A: Versatility, heights and my ability as a guard.

GOLF Andrew Ferworn — University of Alabama SWIMMING Allison Ortiz — Trinity University

10505 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 A family-friendly steakhouse

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SINGING PEERS AND RINGING EARS Houston’s hottest summer concerts

COMPILED BY ALEX BELL (12)

The Killers: May 14 @ Toyota Center The Killers are best known for their hit song “Mr. Brightside,” but they have lots of great rock songs.

This show has been rescheduled a couple of times so here’s your sign to get tickets now!

Morgan Wallen: May 26 @ Minute Maid Park Who doesn’t love Morgan Wallen? This country singer has too many hit songs to count. His “One Night at a Time” World Tour is sure to be a great time for anybody.

Melanie Martinez: June 16 @ 713 Music Hall Known for alternative pop and her fun hair colors, Martinez is a super fun performer!

If you’re into dark bubblegum pop, give her songs a listen.

Drake: June 21 and 22 @ Toyota Center Drake’s got hit after hit song, and it’s guaranteed you love at least a few of them. He hasn’t toured in North America in five years, so be sure to see him while he’s here!

Janet Jackson: June 3 @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion THE Janet Jackson is coming to Houston! She’s an amazing performer with both vocals and dance moves. Even if you’re not her biggest fan, you’re bound to have a great time at this show.

Boygenius: June 8 @ White Oak Music Hall This newer band was formed only in 2018 and features well-known soloist Phoebe Bridgers. They just dropped an album in March, and every song seems to be a hit!

D4vd: June 25 @ White Oak Music Hall This Houston native is touring with his hits “Here With Me” and “Romantic Homicide.”

At only 18, he’s got a great future ahead of him and is worth seeing while he plays at smaller venues!

Louis Tomlinson: July 8 @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion This former member of One Direction is touring his second album, “Faith in the Future,” over the summer. It’s sure to be a great show!

Paramore: July 11 @ Toyota Center This classic early 2000s rock band is best known for the song “Still Into You.” They have come out with loads of music since then and their concerts are always full of nostalgia.

Dermot Kennedy: May 26 @ 713 Music Hall This Irish singer-songwriter sings powerful ballads such as “Outnumbered.” He’s got a great voice and is definitely worth a listen!

OVERHEARD COMPILED BY ABBY STALLWORTH (12)

“I literally love “I told Mr. fellowship” Clayton that I fell down the stairs, and he walked away”

18 spartans say

“Country music is like…

Southern” “Children have squishy bones”

Overheard is a recurring section featuring different things students have heard around school. This section is completely anonymous, so don’t hesitate to let us know what you heard. Before each issue, we post a survey link to submit responses. You can also scan the QR code!

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