By: Emily Breier

The Pleasanton High School golf team is currently in the middle of an exciting season, and they are thriving. This diverse group of athletes shares a passion for the sport. We interviewed an outstanding member of the team, Payton Garza, who expressed that her favorite part of playing golf is meeting new people. This aspect of the game truly highlights what golf has to offer—opportunities to connect with others and explore new experiences. Payton wholeheartedly recommends golf to anyone looking to join a team.

Golf requires a variety of skills and strategies, with each course presenting different challenges that test each player’s abilities. Despite these difficulties, the Pleasanton High School golf teams—both boys and girls—have shown remarkable perseverance. They have achieved victories at events such as the Uvalde Invitational and the Jourdanton Invitational, among others. 

The golf team is having an impressive year, and we are hopeful they will continue to achieve great things. We encourage everyone to come out, support the team, and witness their success firsthand.

By: Aiden Alcorta

As the 2024-2025 season begins, expectations for the Eagle Baseball team are high. All-State Pitcher Cade Segura stated, “Our goals for this year are to become District Champions and to win the State Title.” The Pleasanton Eagle baseball squad is fully capable of achieving these goals, having had an outstanding season last year with an impressive record of 30-6 (10-2 in District), and being named area champions.

This year, the Eagles have started strong with a 6-1 record. Pleasanton vs. TMI Episcopal: 4-2 (Loss). Pleasanton vs. Jourdanton: 2-0 (Victory). Pleasanton vs. Danbury: 4-2 (Victory). Pleasanton vs. Wharton: 7-4 (Victory). Pleasanton vs. Columbia: 11-4 (Victory). Pleasanton vs. Brazos: 7-2 (Victory). Pleasanton vs. Schulenburg: 10-1 (Victory).

The next game is scheduled for March 6th at Victoria East at 9 AM. The most recent home game for the Eagles was on March 14th against the John Paul Guardians at 7 PM. Good luck to the Eagle Baseball team as they strive to achieve their goals of becoming District Champions and winning the State Title!

By: Alexis Cook

Our Eagles have had a rollercoaster of results over the past few weeks, with both victories and tough losses across JV, varsity boys, and girls.  

The JV boys’ season came to an end on Wednesday, March 4th, but not before facing some tough competition. On March 14th, they suffered a 6-1 loss to Somerset, followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat against Cole on March 21st.

On March 5th, they fought to a hard-earned 0-0 draw against Hondo. Their persistence paid off on March 11th, when they secured a 2-0 victory over Poteet, showcasing their ability to grind out wins

Our varsity girls have been delivering some amazing performances. On March 13th, they demolished Somerset in an 8-0. On March 21st, defeating Cole 3-1 in a well-fought match. However, when they faced a tough challenge against Wimberley on March 23rd falling 4-1.  

By: Leighlah Silva 

The softball team is having an incredible season, demonstrating both talent and resilience as they accumulate victories! On March 14th, they defeated St. John Paul with a score of 11-4. Scarlet set a school record for home runs during this game, marking a moment to remember! Earlier in the month, the team made a statement with a dominant 20-1 win against Carrizo Springs, while the JV squad also showed their strength with a 15-12 win.

Their winning ways didn’t stop there. On March 7th, the varsity team triumphed 5-2 over Uvalde, while the JV narrowly lost 8-9. Even with some tough challenges, such as their rough outing at the Corpus Tournament on March 2nd, the team played hard and showed their potential.

In the first district game on March 5th, they edged out Floresville 4-3 in a nail-biting finish. The team kicked off the month with a strong 2-1 victory against Randolph on February 26th, and their February 15th performance at the Seguin Tournament was even better, bringing home 1st place!

With impressive performances across the board and an undeniable drive, this softball team is proving they’re not just here to compete—they’re here to win!

By: Layla Rodriguez

Our Pleasanton Eagle track team has been doing their best these past few meets, and it is going by super fast and the district meet is right around the corner! Our athletes have been working hard on the fields in this brutal weather in order to perform to the best of their abilities! Despite the past few meets being canceled the Eagles have still been working extremely hard in order to prepare for district, and the meets following. 

This past week at the Davenport meet there was some great news down at the pole vault pits. Freshman Pierson Pilgrim had an outstanding performance and was able to break his own personal record and jumped 14 feet, and 9 inches which set him up for first place! Pierson was asked how he was able to achieve his goals and his new personal record, he answered “I make sure to stay consistent in my practices and don’t goof around.” Junior, Layla Rodriguez also had an outstanding performance at this meet. She managed to jump 10 feet and 6 inches which broke her school record and personal record of 10 feet. Shout out to these athletes for breaking their personal records, and we hope to see them fly high again next week at district. 

Overall this season has been going well for the eagles and we are so proud of them for working so hard every day to achieve their goals. Come out and support them at their district meet which will be in Somerset on Wednesday April 2nd! Hope to see you there!

By: Alexis Cook and Jolenne Woodlee

Band

The Mighty Eagle Band is getting ready for the Taste of Band event, which will take place in the Pleasanton High School cafeteria. This event is open to everyone, with an estimated entry fee of $10. The band is also preparing for the Flambeau Parade, with the practice date to be announced soon.

Additionally, auditions for the Color Guard and Drum Major will be held on April 2nd. Good luck to all those auditioning for Color Guard and Drum Major—may you enjoy the experience!

Powerlifting

The Pleasanton High School powerlifting team is celebrating a major accomplishment this season as some of our strongest athletes have earned spots in championship competitions. Our lifters have been putting in grueling work in the weight room since the season began, and their dedication is paying off with these impressive qualifications.

Leading the boys’ team is Romin Martines. Martines earned his state berth through consistently strong performances all season, capped by an outstanding showing at the regional qualifying meet.

On the girls’ side, two talented lifters, Aly Nelson and Yasmeen Diop, demonstrated remarkable skill. Both athletes displayed exceptional skill in the squat, bench press, and deadlift throughout the competition season.

These qualifications represent a significant achievement for Pleasanton’s powerlifting program. Making it to state and regional competitions requires not just raw strength but also strict discipline in training, nutrition, and recovery. The athletes follow carefully designed workout programs and maintain detailed logs tracking their progress on each lifting

Tennis 

The PHS tennis team has had an incredible season so far, with several players making their mark in recent tournaments. On March 13th, the team gathered for a special dinner and Senior Night at The Backyard, celebrating their hard work and achievements.  

In boys’ singles, Jace Warner secured an impressive 2nd place, showcasing his skill and determination on the court. His success doesn’t stop there. Jace recently committed to Austin College, where he will join the “Roo” tennis team next year. Congratulations, Jace!  

The boys’ doubles teams also had a strong showing. Brennan Lopez and Jax Smith took 2nd place,  while Andrew and Nick Lucas earned 6th place. 

On the girls’ side, Kenda Crouch and Gretchen Carraway dominated their division, becoming conference champions in doubles. Their hard work and chemistry on the court have paid off in a big way.  

In mixed doubles, Senica Croft and Emanuel Ramirez fought hard and finished in 6th place, contributing to the team’s overall success.  

The March 13th team dinner and Senior Night was a memorable event, honoring the seniors who have given so much to the program. 

By: Leighlah Silva 

Meet this month’s Eagle of the Month, Pierson Pilgrim, a freshman who is already making waves at Pleasanton High School. With a busy schedule filled with leadership roles, athletic achievements, and a strong commitment to giving back, this student is truly embodying what it means to be an Eagle.

A standout member of the school community, this freshman is a state qualifier in Small Business Management through BPA, and serves as the president of the Class of 2028. He is also a dedicated member of the Student Council, a proud FFA member, and an impressive athlete in Varsity Track and Field, where he competes in pole vaulting.

Having been involved in pole vaulting since he was 8 years old, he has already achieved a personal best of 14’6”, ranking him 2nd in the state for his grade level. Despite being only a freshman, he’s already reaching new heights and working toward even bigger goals.

When asked about his high school experience so far, he’s quick to share how great it’s been. “I’ve accomplished a lot and met many of my goals,” he says. One person who has stood out during his journey is Mr. Gutierrez, his algebra teacher. “Mr. Gutierrez has been a huge help. He’s not only taught me the basics of math but also helped me push through the harder parts. I’ve learned more in his class than anywhere else,” he adds. His love for learning and his positive attitude are key to his success.

Outside of school, this student is deeply involved in his faith. As a member of Pleasanton First Baptist Church since preschool, he now serves as a youth member and continues to grow in his journey with the Lord. His faith has played an important role in his life and influences everything he does, from school to community service.

His leadership skills are also evident in his role as the FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) captain, a position he’s held twice this year. He’s even had the chance to serve as a sermon leader during their monthly meetings, which has allowed him to share his faith with others in a meaningful way.

In addition to his academic, athletic, and leadership roles, this freshman believes in the importance of giving back. He’s a regular volunteer in the community and is always looking for ways to make a positive impact.

With his dedication to his faith, his studies, and his community, this freshman is an inspiration to those around him. He’s just getting started, but it’s clear that he’s already on the path to success. Congratulations to this outstanding Eagle of the Month! Keep soaring high!

by: Alex Richter

Some teachers go beyond textbooks and lesson plans, leaving a lasting impact on their students’ lives. At our school, Mrs. Slatton is one of those educators–known for her dedication to creative and inspiring learning. Whether she’s in the classroom or coaching on the sidelines, she brightens the classroom or the field with everything she does.

Mrs. Slatton’s path to teaching special education wasn’t one she initially thought she’d take, but it quickly became her passion. “If it wasn’t for Plesanton, I wouldn’t be teaching what I teach,” she shared. It was during her interview that her principal, Mrs. Garcia, recognized something in her and encouraged her to step into special education. Now in her sixth year, she couldn’t imagine doing anything else. She loves working with her students and individually advocating for them in the classroom. Helping each student grow in a way that suits their unique needs is what makes her job so rewarding.

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Slatton wears another hat–cheerleading sponsor. While balancing both responsibilities is a challenge, she credits a strong support system for making it possible. “It takes a lot of planning and a lot of support,” she explained. “I have a great support system with my special education colleagues and a wonderful Booster Club full of parents that always have my back.”

Through cheer, Mrs. Slatton gets to connect with students she wouldn’t normally have during the school year. One of her most memorable moments as a sponsor was watching her daughter achieve her dream of cheerleading in college.

Mrs. Slatton prioritizes inclusion and respect. “You have to look at every student as an individual–it’s not one size fits all.” she emphasized. Her approach is rooted in understanding, ensuring students feel valued and supported. It isn’t always easy, but it is so rewarding for her to see a student or athlete learn something new and use it on their own!

As she continues her first year at the high school, Mrs. Slatton is grateful for the warm welcome she’s received from staff and students here at PHS! “Shout out to the high school for taking me into their family this year and being a great support system for me. It really means the world to me,” she shared.

With her unwavering support and dedication to both education and athletics, Mrs. Slatton exemplifies what it means to be a teacher who truly makes a difference.

By: Omar Aguas

The school year is coming to a close, and prom is the final event for seniors before graduation.. There are multiple reasons why YOU should go to prom:

1. You get to hang out with your friends and have fun in your finest clothes, cracking jokes, and more.
2. You will be spending time with the love of your life, which will enhance your relationship and bring you closer together.
3. Elevate your spirits by creating lasting memories. We all experience moments when we need something to look back on.

Overall, there are many reasons why prom is an essential high school experience. Make sure to meet your obligations and purchase a ticket before April 2nd in the PHS Library.

By: Xavier Mendoza

 Aries of April

April represents the astrological sign Aries, a fire sign symbolized by the ram. Aries individuals are known for their bold, energetic, and passionate nature and are often associated with leadership and initiative.

Key traits and information about Aries include:

– Birthdates: March 21 to April 19

– Ruling Planet: Mars

– Symbol: The Ram

Strengths of Aries people include leadership, initiative, courage, optimism, enthusiasm, and passion. However, they may also exhibit weaknesses such as impulsiveness, selfishness, and a lack of patience.

Some famous Aries include Mariah Carey, Jackie Chan, Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Baudelaire, Harry Houdini, Cesar Chavez, Andrei Tarkovsky, and Ilana Glazer. Aries is also the first astrological sign in the zodiac, spanning the first 30 degrees of celestial longitude.

By: Jolenne Woodlee

March is a month dedicated to raising awareness, and this year, we want to focus on brain injury and the importance of staying informed about it.

There are two main categories of brain injury: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). The differences between the two are significant:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):

– Concussions: A mild TBI that can cause temporary confusion or loss of consciousness.  

– Contusions: Bruising or damage to brain tissue.  

– Hemorrhages: Bleeding within the brain.  

– Intracranial Hematomas: Blood clots within the skull.  

– Coup-Contrecoup Injuries: Damage to the brain at the point of impact and on the opposite side of the head.  

– Penetrating TBIs: Injuries where an object pierces the skull and enters the brain.  

– Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI): Damage to the brain’s connecting fibers.  

– Second Impact Syndrome: A rare but serious condition that can occur when a second concussion happens before the first has fully healed.  

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI):

– Stroke: A condition where blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain damage.  

– Tumor: A growth in the brain that can damage surrounding tissue.  

– Brain Infections or Inflammation: Conditions like meningitis can lead to brain damage.  

– Anoxic or Hypoxic Brain Injury: Damage caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain.  

– Secondary Brain Injury: Complications that develop after the initial injury, such as swelling or pressure.  

The key difference between TBI and ABI is that TBI results from external forces damaging the brain, while ABI is caused by internal factors such as medical conditions or illnesses.

Some important facts about brain injury include the following: According to the Brain Injury Association of America, “Every 9 seconds, someone in the United States sustains a brain injury.” Despite this, there are many misconceptions and gaps in understanding among the general public. A brain injury can significantly affect how a person thinks, acts, and feels. The Mayo Clinic states, “Traumatic brain injury usually results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. An object that penetrates brain tissue, such as a bullet or a shattered piece of skull, can also cause traumatic brain injury. Mild traumatic brain injury may only temporarily affect brain cells, while more serious cases can result in bruising, torn tissues, bleeding, and other physical damage to the brain. These injuries can lead to long-term complications or even death.”

If you would like to learn more about brain injury, I encourage you to do your research. Reputable sources include the Brain Injury Association of America and the Mayo Clinic.

By: Kate

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers from the California Institute of Technology and ETH Zurich have unveiled mysterious undersea structures deep within Earth’s mantle. These formations, located beneath vast oceanic regions and continental areas, differ significantly from known tectonic plates in terms of temperature and composition. The discovery has sparked speculation about the existence of a hidden “lost world” beneath the Pacific Ocean. Scientists believe these structures could provide new insights into Earth’s geological history, challenging long-held theories regarding the planet’s internal processes.

Moving forward, researchers plan to conduct further studies to map and analyze these formations. Their goal is to better understand how these hidden structures influence Earth’s geology, which could reshape our understanding of the planet’s dynamic inner workings.

Source: https://nypost.com/2025/01/10/science/newly-discovered-undersea-structures-stun-scientists-is-there-a-lost-world-beneath-the-pacific-ocean/

By: Layla Rodriguez

I carry the weight of what you took,

Trust once given,

Now cracked and shook.

Your silence echos,

Sharp and cold,

The story of hurt is too heavy to be told.

I long for you to feel the cost,

To see the damage,

To know what is lost.

But this time moves,

And still I stay

With broken pieces of yesterday.

I try to move,

I let it go,

But the shadows linger and always grow

The pain still haunts my soul,

A wound that time can’t seem to control.

The hurt you caused,

It never fades.

But I will not wait in empty shades,

There is nothing more to find,

Yet still I remain the broken mind.

-Soulful Scribbler

By: Emily Breier & Liam Powell

Nothing quite like the aroma of something sweet baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delightful treat that is soft, rich, and flavorful. With just the right balance of sweetness and texture, every bite melts in your mouth, leaving behind a hint of indulgence. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy afternoon snack, a special occasion, or just because, this homemade delight is sure to bring smiles all around. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started!

Ingredients:

– 1/4 cup butter, cubed

– 4-1/2 cups miniature marshmallows

– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

– 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

– 4 cups chow mein noodles

– 1 cup jelly beans or candy eggs

Step One:  

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and marshmallows until smooth, stirring occasionally. Add the peanut butter and chocolate chips; heat and stir for 2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in the chow mein noodles until they are well-coated.

Step Two:

Divide the mixture into 12 mounds on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Using your fingers, shape each mound into a nest and press an indentation in the center of each nest. Fill each nest with 3 or 4 jelly beans or candy eggs. Allow to cool.

We hope you enjoy this sweet treat, and we wish you a wonderful Easter!

by: Alex Richter

The tragic case of Stephanie Melgoza serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving, highlighting the profound impact on victims’ families and the legal repercussions that follow.

On the night of April 10, 2022, Stephanie Melgoza, a 24-year-old Bradley University student, was driving near the Full Throttle bar in East Peoria, Illinois, when she struck and killed two pedestrians: 43-year-old Andrea Rosewicz and 55-year-old Paul Prowant. Melgoza consumed three vodka drinks before the incident and was found to have a blood-alcohol content approximately three times the legal limit.

The collision was severe, with responding officers discovering Melgoza’s red Dodge Dart with a severed leg protruding from the vehicle’s front bumper, underscoring the violent nature of the impact.

Responding officers were shocked by Melgoza’s blatant signs of impairment. To make matters worse, body camera footage captured her laughing, giggling, smiling, and singing Justin Bieber’s “Intentions” after the crash, illustrating a chilling obliviousness to the severity of the situation. When she arrived at the hospital and was told by police that she had killed two people, Melgoza shockingly showed no remorse; instead, her only worries revolved around missing her classes, revealing a disturbing lack of empathy for the lives she had shattered.

In February 2023, Melgoza pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol and aggravated reckless driving. During the April 27, 2023 sentencing, Judge Tim Cusack sentenced her to 14 years in prison. Under Illinois law, she must serve at least 85% of her sentence before being eligible for release.

by: Aiden Alcorta and Layla Rodriguez

As the end of the 2024- 2025 Pleasanton Eagles Boys Basketball season comes to an end the eagles unfortunately are out of the playoff contender and have a record of 13-18 on the season. The Eagles unfortunately took a loss to the Uvalde Coyotes yesterday night with a final of 49-62. The Eagles have fought hard all season long and never quit when times were rough. The amount of dedication the boys put into the sport this year is unbelievable. Although the Eagles didn’t get the results they were hoping for, all of Pleasanton is still super proud of the Eagles and the time and dedication they put into the sport. The Eagles have one more game left which is on Friday February 7th at Carrizo Springs High School @6:15pm.

Now for our Lady Eagles Basketball, this season sadly did not result in an advancement to the playoffs for the Lady Eagles due to their loss against Somerset which determined their fate to get them to playoffs. Despite this loss, the Eagles fought so hard this season and did their best to make it to the playoffs. Pride, Pride PHS!

by: Alex Richter and Layla Rodriguez

Pleasanton Boys golf team won the Jourdanton Invitational with a team score of 309. Zane Rodriguez finished first place individual with a score of 72. Mark Thornton finished second place individual with score of 74. The boys are back in action next Friday and Saturday in Uvalde.

As the PHS golf season continues, players are honing their skills and competing in challenging matches. Golf is a sport that requires patience, focus, and precision, and this year’s team is proving that they have what it takes to succeed on the course.

This season, the team has seen improvements across the board, with returning players refining their skills and new athletes stepping up to the challenge. Coaches are emphasizing course management, consistency, and persistence, helping players develop into stronger competitors.

For this month’s Golf article, we have chosen to interview Junior, and member of the Varsity team: Genieve Turner. Genieve is a dedicated athlete whose love for golf steamed from her brother Levi. She says, “My Brother was the one who inspired me to play golf. He started playing his freshman year and he was so proud of himself that he would take me to the field and show me everything he had learned.” As you can tell this work and dedication at such a young age has helped form her as an athlete and contributed to how successful she is now! The next question we asked her was, “What is the biggest challenge you face during golf?” and she answered, “My biggest challenge when playing golf is my mentality. Playing golf in high school while taking college classes plus my vet course through A&M becomes very overwhelming.” What a hard worker! Though Genieve has many other tasks, she still manages to make golf a priority and she tries so hard at everything she does. 

With several matches left this golf season, the team is staying focused on improving their game and being strong this season. Good job, PHS golf!

by: Liam Powell

One Act Play season has started later for Pleasanton as Ms. Rodruigez was out with an injury for the first few weeks of the season starting. Despite this setback the OAP group has excelled in their growth for the play. This year’s stage manager is Hannah Ramirez, a senior with four years of experience under her belt. OAP is a special UIL event for the school’s theater team. Last year Pleasanton High School landed an alternate with the play “Twelve Angry Jours”. 

This year’s play is Asylum By Jerome McDonough, this play is based around mental patients and their view on the world around them, how they see the world. After performing for the principal, Mr. Hinojosa on February 25th and gettinging signed off for performance, the Pleasanton High School One Act Play group will be going to competition on, saturday, March 1st. Friday, February 28th, the OAP team will be heading to Coreso Springs to get a feel of the stage for their performance the next day. Hoping to reach regionals with this year’s play the OAP team is excited and very optimistic. 

By:Leighlah Silva 

The Pleasanton Pacesetters have once again proven their talent and dedication by earning the Sweepstakes Award at their competition on February 15th in New Braunfels. This award is given to teams that score an 85 or higher on all of their routines, and the Pacesetters did just that with their kick, jazz, field, and pom routines. The team has worked incredibly hard this season, putting in hours of practice to perfect their performances. Their dedication paid off as they impressed the judges with their precision, energy, and school spirit. Earning the Sweepstakes Award is a huge accomplishment, showing just how talented and well-prepared these dancers are. While this competition was a big success, the Pacesetters aren’t done yet. They have one more competition coming up on February 21-22, where they’ll take the stage once again and give it their all. With their strong work ethic and determination, there’s no doubt they will continue to shine. Congratulations to the Pleasanton Pacesetters on this amazing achievement! Their hard work and passion for dance continue to make PHS proud.

By: Alexis C. and Kaydence A.

Claire Keylich striking the ball during the Lobos Vs. Pleasanton match on 2/25.

The Pleasanton Eagles are soaring high as they prepare to face the Pearsall Mavericks in an exciting soccer matchup this Thursday. The game, set to kick off at 5:00 p.m., will take place at Pleasanton’s home field, where the Eagles will have the support of their passionate fans. 

Pleasanton has been in impressive form recently, winning three of their last four games. This strong performance has given their season record a significant boost, now standing at 3-5-2. The team’s offensive firepower has been the key to their success, with the Eagles scoring an impressive 11 goals in their last four contests. This attacking prowess has not only secured victories but also boosted the team’s confidence as they head into this crucial game.

One of the most notable aspects of this matchup is Pleasanton’s historical dominance over Pearsall. The Eagles have won all four of their previous encounters against the Mavericks, and they’ll be looking to extend that perfect record to 5-0. With the home crowd behind them and momentum on their side, Pleasanton is poised to deliver another thrilling performance.

The Pleasanton boys varsity soccer team recently played against Somerset, losing 4-1 on Tuesday. When interviewing Louis Manzanares and asking why he liked to play soccer, he stated “Whenever I started playing soccer, I liked playing it because it was something active and I was to small for football, and baseball wasn’t really my thing, and all my childhood friends played soccer so that’s why I still play it today.” When asking him what one of the worst injuries he has had while playing soccer, he stated “One of my worst injuries while playing soccer was hurting my knee.” When asked what his best experience while playing soccer, he said “the goals you hit in the moment.” 

Overall, the Eagle varsity team is hoping to finish the season strong! Good luck eagles!

by: Alex R., Alexis C., Layla R., Omar A., and Xavier M.

This track season has been off to a great start for the Eagles, both boys and girls! The Eagles had their first track meet this past Thursday in Marion. Despite the terribly cold weather, the boys managed to secure second place and the girls placed third. This week’s meet has been canceled due to the harsh weather conditions, but will be back at it again next week to fight hard! Come out to support our track team, way to go Eagles!

Caylee Durbin with her champion horse after winning a $10,000 Scholarship for the Barrel Racing Youth Competition.

The 2025 Stockshow has been on a roll recently with Caylee Durbin receiving a 10,000 dollar scholarship from the San Antonio Livestock Show in the barrel racing youth competition! Be sure to congratulate her if you see her. Congratulations to Atascosa Counties 4-H Horse judging team and thank you to Aubrey Carter for coaching the team! The scores and participants are as follows:

1st Place- Senior Team:

• Caylee Durbin
• Coy McMane
• Bailey Saenz
• Madelynn Wiggins

1st place Senior Individual:

• Bailey Saenz

2nd place Senior Individual:

• Caylee Durbin

The 2025 Stockshow and Rodeo has been amazing this year, so make sure you keep cheering them on!

As the season progresses, the high school tennis team continues to showcase dedication and teamwork on the court. From practices to matches, these student-athletes balance academics and athletics, striving for personal and professional victories. This season, the team has shown impressive growth, with familiar faces and new talent stepping up.  With the season still underway, the team is focused on finishing strong and making an impact in upcoming tournaments and matches. Whether aiming for a championship title or simply trying to improve their game, each player continues to work hard here at PHS!

ATSSB All-State Symphonic Band and their band directors recognized at the February School Board Meeting.

Our Mighty Eagle Band has made a significant achievements this month as well. Congratulations to our five All-State students who were recognized at the school board meeting on February 10th! They were sent off on February 12th to perform with the ATSSB All-State Symphonic Band at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 15th at the Lila Cockrell Theatre in San Antonio. Shoutout to Michael Lister: First Chair, Euphonium (second year), Ivan Padilla: First Chair, Bass Clarinet, Samuel Bermea: Seventh Chair, Clarinet, Julian Villarreal: First Chair, Contralto Clarinet, and Michael Cepeda: First Chair, Alto Clarinet (second year).

By: Leighlah Silva 

Pleasanton High School is proud to recognize Kendra Valle as the Eagle of the Month! A dedicated and hardworking senior, Kendra has spent her high school years fully involved in campus life, leaving a lasting impact on those around her. She has been a member of the drill team for four years and the band for one year, showing her commitment to both school spirit and the arts. 

Not only has Kendra been a dedicated member of the drill team, but she has also taken on a leadership role as the Lieutenant Colonel, guiding her teammates and setting an example through her hard work and passion. Her time on the team has taught her valuable lessons about discipline, teamwork, and perseverance qualities that will serve her well in the future. Beyond her extracurriculars, Kendra has worked toward achieving her goals in the medical field. One of her proudest accomplishments is earning her CNA license, a milestone that brings her one step closer to her dream of becoming a nurse. She credits Ms. Summers for helping her through the process, describing her as an amazing educator who has always been there to support and guide her. 

Kendra’s inspiration comes from her parents, who have always motivated her to work hard and push toward success. Their encouragement has shaped her into the determined and ambitious person she is today. As she prepares to graduate, Kendra looks forward to attending college and then nursing school, where she will continue her passion for helping others. Throughout her high school years, Kendra has not only made unforgettable memories but has also learned important life lessons that have helped her grow as a person. With her leadership, determination, and drive to make a difference, there’s no doubt that she has a bright future ahead. Congratulations, Kendra, on being recognized as Eagle of the Month!

By: Elisabeth Dills

“The reward is greater than the sacrifice” an insight into PHS’s Favorite teacher, Mrs. Mcdowell. 

This month’s Teacher Spotlight goes to the amazing Mrs. McDowell! Before becoming our health science teacher, she spent 16 years as an ICU nurse, helping tons of patients with care and dedication. Pretty cool, right? She’s been teaching here for the past eight years, sharing all her knowledge and experience to help students get a head start in the medical field.

When asked what gets her out of bed in the morning, she said two things—running and her students! Whether she’s hitting the pavement for an early morning jog or walking into class ready to teach, she brings the same energy and enthusiasm every day.

So, if you see Mrs. McDowell in the hallway or in class, don’t forget to say hi and wish her an awesome day—she totally deserves it! We appreciate everything she does for us, and we’re lucky to have her!

By: Emily Breier

Here at Pleasanton High School we have an amazing staff, to spotlight one person who is an amazing mobile teacher, Mrs. T. Mobile teachers are a vital part of the school system, and they can be unappreciated. She supports students and fellow teachers and is loved by everyone. She is amazing at her job. 

We interviewed Mrs. T and asked her “Have you always wanted to be a teacher?”, she then said “I have always wanted to work in a job I could make a difference in.¨ This statement is so inspiring, many people in the world today couldn’t care less about the people around them, but the amazing Mrs. T loves working here and working with many different types of students with many different personalities. That’s another reason Mrs. T is so amazing, people often can’t handle the many personalities, but she has the skills to do it. This is one of the major reasons we chose her as our staff spotlight this month. 

Being the selfless, kind, amazing person that she is, we are so glad to have her here at PISD. If you see Mrs. T. make sure to tell her thank you for doing such a great job. From the Quill Staff, we would like to say a huge thank you.