By: Aiden Alcorta

As the 2024-2025 football season comes to an end, the Pleasanton Eagles finished with a record of 4-6. The Eagles came up short against a very talented team, the Canyon Lake Hawks, with a score of 24-42. The Eagles had a hard-fought season and put in so much work to the season. As the Eagles look to get revenge next season, they are now putting in the work in the off-season. Congratulations to the Eagles for not quitting when times were hard; they fought every battle until the final buzzer sounded.  

Also, a HUGE congratulations to Aiden Rich in making the San Antonio Sports All-Star Game!! Make sure to vote for Erik Coronado for the San Antonio Sports All-Star Game. Voting is on woobox.com choose your vote and fill out the information at the bottom. Until next season, #PridePrideEaglePride!!

By: Layla Rodriguez and Alexis Cook

And we’re back with another sports recap! This month’s Sports Recap will be focusing on Band and our Basketball program. 

First, we will start with our Lady Eagle Basketball! The Eagles have been competing so very hard this season, and it is just the start. Going into the first game, they fought and managed a big win. Next, they competed at Jefferson and once again managed to take a big win!

Now moving on to the Boys Basketball program. This season has been looking equally as great for these boys! The boys competed at home against Beeville, and it was a close one. The game went into overtime, but not to fear, they pulled off the win. 

Saturday at 11 a.m., the Pleasanton Eagle Band went head-to-head against Calallen High School in an exciting competition. All teams brought their best to the field, showcasing impressive talent and determination. Despite a strong performance from the Eagles, they ultimately finished in 20th place, while Calallen High School secured 11th place. The match was a hard-fought contest, with both schools displaying grit and sportsmanship throughout the event. Although the Eagles didn’t achieve the ranking they had hoped for, they showed great resilience and skill, making the competition a valuable experience for the team.

Percilla Gonzales

By: Liam Powell & Xavier Mendoza 

Ms. Gonzales has been a vital part of our teacher support system for some time now. But how many of us have taken the chance to truly get to know her?

Her journey began with an early dream of becoming a pharmacist. The idea of diving into the world of medicine was exciting, and the flexibility of the career path seemed ideal. However, Ms. Gonzales eventually found her true calling in education. She majored in multidisciplinary science and even dedicated an additional year to earning her certification to teach high school—a goal she had nurtured for a few years.

She began her career as a science teacher in the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD), where she built a strong foundation of experience alongside her science degree. Before long, she joined Pleasanton ISD, steadily working her way into her current role as teacher support.

Ms. Gonzales has a genuine love for connecting with people from all walks of life. She takes time to listen, understand, and offer help wherever she can, a dedication that naturally led her to her current position. Despite the demands of her role, Ms. Gonzales still makes time for her passions.

In her free time, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows and movies. But her hobbies don’t end there. “There’s something about a book and good weather that makes my heart smile,” she says—a sentiment that many can relate to.

Basketball is another love of hers, one that goes back to her college days at St. Philip’s College, where she played for fun. Now, the tradition lives on through her children, who share her enthusiasm for the game.

Ms. Gonzales is more than just a pillar of support for our teachers; she’s a role model who balances her professional and personal life with grace. Like the pages of a favorite book, her life is filled with stories waiting to be discovered.

While her focus now is on supporting our teachers, her efforts ultimately benefit all of us, ensuring we receive the quality education we deserve.

By: Leighlah Silva 

As the new school year unfolds, we’re excited to welcome two standout sophomores to the journalism team, Emily Breier and Elisabeth Dills. Both bring unique perspectives, ambitions, and determination, making them a welcome addition to our staff. Their stories highlight not only their dedication to journalism but also the qualities that set them apart as exceptional individuals.

Emily’s journey into journalism began at the fall fair for freshmen, where a spark of interest led her to sign up. Though she faces challenges, like the occasional writer’s block, she doesn’t let that hold her back. Emily’s commitment to her work is evident in how she actively seeks help and feedback, always eager to improve her writing and bring fresh ideas to the team. Her persistence in overcoming obstacles is inspiring, and her passion for learning shines through in her efforts.

Outside of journalism, Emily envisions a future in cosmetology, where she plans to use her creativity and sense of style. But for now, she’s excited to stick with journalism throughout high school, building skills and making connections that will serve her well in any career she chooses. Her advice to others is simple but powerful: put in the effort, and remember that trying your best is what matters most. Emily’s resilience and positive outlook are sure to leave a lasting impact on our journalism team.

Elizabeth joined the journalism team seeking an extra class to round out her schedule, but her natural love for writing and connecting with people made her a perfect fit. She brings an enthusiasm for storytelling that is contagious, always eager to engage with new people and learn about their perspectives. For Elizabeth, journalism isn’t just about reporting facts; it’s about building relationships and understanding the world around her.

Like any writer, Elizabeth faces her own set of challenges, especially with meeting deadlines and avoiding the pull of procrastination. However, her awareness of these obstacles only makes her more determined to succeed. Elizabeth plans to stay with journalism, using the skills she gains to enhance her communication abilities and stay engaged with the world. Her perseverance and people-centered approach bring a refreshing energy to our team.

Both Emily and Elizabeth have shown a willingness to step outside their comfort zones, take on challenges, and grow as writers and individuals. Their dedication and unique perspectives bring depth and diversity to our journalism team, making them invaluable members who will undoubtedly leave a mark on our publication.

This issue we will be talking about is American Diabetes Awareness Month, people may not know but November is the Month of many awareness health issues including American Diabetes Month, Bladder Health Month, Diabetic Eye Disease Month, Lung Cancer Awareness Month, National Epilepsy Awareness Month, National Healthy Skin Month, National Hospice Palliative Care Month, National Stomach Cancer Awareness, Month Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, Prematurity Awareness Month, Transgender Awareness Week (2nd week in November), but this issues we will be focussing on American Diabetes Awareness Month, because granted it is a serious thing some people don’t recognize that November is the month of American diabetes. There are different types of diabetes, type one and type two. 

Type one diabetes is caused by your body attacking itself therefore causing it not to provide enough insulin, this can be diagnosed in children or young adults. Type two diabetes is when your body doesn’t produce insulin well and can’t keep your blood levels stable, according to the CDC website “You may not notice any symptoms, so it’s important to get your blood sugar tested if you’re at risk”.

There are also prediabetic and borderline diabetic. Prediabetes is when your sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to have type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC website, “Prediabetes is a serious health condition that increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.” What causes prediabetes? According to the CDC, “ Insulin is a hormone that acts like a key to let blood sugar into cells for use as energy. If you have prediabetes, the cells in your body don’t respond normally to insulin. Your pancreas makes more insulin to try to get cells to respond.

Eventually, your pancreas can’t keep up, and your blood sugar rises. This sets the stage for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes down the road.”  However, borderline diabetes is when your blood sugar level is higher than it should be but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. Borderline diabetics have some insulin resistance due to excess body fat, especially around their belly, and a lack of physical activity.

by: Alex Richter

Junko Furuta, a 17-year-old high school student from Tokyo, Japan, was abducted on her way home from a part-time job by two teenage boys on November 25, 1988. Junko was a well-liked student at Yashio-Minami High School, recognized for her beauty, intellect, and outstanding academic performance. Her peers respected her, and she had a promising future in front of her, though her life was tragically cut short. The case, involving four teenage perpetrators, shocked Japan and left a lasting impression on the community.

This began when two boys approached Junko from her school. Hiroshi Miyano, the group’s ringleader, had previously tried to form a romantic relationship with her, which she politely declined. This resulted in his friends–Nobuharu Minato, Yasushi Watanabe, and Jo Ogura–having the idea to abduct her. After forcing Junko to call her parents and claim she was safe, her captors held her in the Minato family home, effectively preventing any search and rescue efforts.

While in captivity, Junko suffered extensive abuse and endured unimaginable hardship. Reports indicate that she was deprived of food, subjected to physical and psychological harm, and endured prolonged suffering. Over 44 days, Junko was brutally tortured by the boys in unspeakable ways. 

There were instances where Junko’s suffering might have come to an end. At one point, a young visitor to the house saw her and informed the authorities that there was an abused girl in the home. However, when police arrived to investigate, they were convinced by both the boys and the parents that no one in the house needed help, leading them to leave without further action. In another instance, Junko managed to reach out for help briefly by phone, but her captors stopped her before she had the chance to speak.

Junko eventually succumbed to her injuries on January 4, 1989. In a final act of cruelty, her captors concealed her remains in a concrete-filled container, disposing of it in a landfill. The sentences for the perpetrators were met with widespread outrage, as the legal system’s treatment of juveniles led to relatively short prison terms for all involved. Hiroshi Miyano received a 20-year sentence, while the others received even lighter sentences.

This case remains a painful reminder of the need for stronger protections for victims. The legacy of Junko’s story has contributed to increased awareness and advocacy against violence, as people remember Junko not only for the injustice she endured but also as a symbol of change.

By: Layla Rodriguez

For this month’s Poll, we asked our students at PHS if they prefer winter or fall and why. Here are some great responses! “I prefer winter because it is Christmas time!” and a student favoring fall said, “I love fall because of the feeling, and the festive foods!”. Concluding our results, the big winner of this month’s Poll is winter! Thank you to everyone who participated this month. Come back next time for a fun new topic!

By: Ella Garza

This issue’s new discovery is that scientists have discovered a new species of antarctic dragonfish. A dragonfish is a fish native to warm Indo-Pacific waters and are 16-centimeter elongated fish encased in bony rings of armor. A research team from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at William & Mary had identified what’s known as the “banded dragonfish” while investigating museum-archived larvae samples.

While most of our ocean is still unexplored, new species are being discovered almost every day. This strikes a lot of conversations in communities even outside of science. Visit https://new.nsf.gov/news/new-antarctic-dragonfish-species-discovered for more information. 

By: Emily Breier

 Let’s talk about the top ten teams in the NFL. Every team works hard, though the question is who is the best of the best. Let’s start with number ten the Arizona Cardinals they have a winning streak of six wins and four losses. Coming in at ninth place is the Green Bay Packers with six wins and three losses. Next is the Missoda Vikings who have seven, and two records putting them in eighth place. In seventh place is the Washington Commanders; their record so far this season is seven wins and three losses. Coming in at number six is the Pittsburgh Stealers with a score of seven and two

Now let’s get to the top five, at number five is the Philadelphia Eagles with a score of seven-two. Next up is the Buffalo Bill with a great score of eight-two. At number three is the Ravains with a score of seven and three. The Lions come in second place so far this season with a streak of eight and one, so close to the number one spot but not close enough. Now is the moment we have all been waiting for the number-one team in the NFL this season. You know them, you love them, the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs have nine and zero scores right now being the only team with this record.

Every team deserves the praise, of course, for putting in countless hours on and off the field. No matter what team you support I hope you enjoyed the update of the top ten.

By: Jolenne Woodlee and Kadynce Aguliar

The Quill staff are delighted to report on our foreign exchange students, Dalighla and Barbare. Dalighla is from Germany, and she had some good things to say about Pleasanton High School so far. When discussing Pleasanton High School, Dalighla states, “It’s good, I like it”. When asked how she likes her host family, her response was, “ I like my host family”.  Dalighla also stated,“The first week was hard, but now it’s easy.” Overall, she seems to enjoy her stay here in Pleasanton, Texas.

Barbare, on the other hand, is from Georgia. When asking her opinion about culture, her answer was “Like every teenager, it was my dream to get to America, leaving the Washington airport and seeing America through my eyes was very shocking and impressive at the same time. The cultural difference is that Americans know time management which is not a big problem in Georgia.” We asked Barbare to elaborate about the difference of the culture today, she had a lot of good things to say about it. When talking about some of the most challenging things she has faced she stated “One of the difficult barriers is the English language, because American English is different from all other English spoken by people in the world.” 

We are excited to host these delightful students on our campus. Make sure to give them a welcoming smile if you meet these two! 

Pop Culture: New York Fashion Week 

by: Layla Rodriguez 

This month we are focusing on the one and only New York Fashion week! There were so many different looks and new styles being introduced that many love, here are some of the favorites! 

Ralph Lauren 

Firstly we have Ralph Lauren. She brought a whole new meaning to style. Her main outfit featured a whole Jean look with some pops of color shown in the accessories. She was going for a chick hippie cowgirl kind of look and she definitely nailed it! This was one of our more simple but favorite looks this week.

Alessandra Ambrosio 

Next we have Alessandra Ambrosio and she looked absolutely stunning! She featured a red jumpsuit with a butterfly cut neckline and white undertones fading into a flowy bottom. No accessories needed, this piece was a real show stopper!!  

Grace Ling 

Lastly we have Grace Ling, with this one of a kind line that had many jaws on the floor. This dress features a vine of thorns wrapped around her body with a few birds coming off of the vine. The all silver look is really eye-catching as well as its unique design! This line emphasizes being delicate, yet dangerous and brings so many new possibilities to the table. 

Overall this New York fashion week was a huge success! Our journalism crew loved seeing the unique outfits and the creative people behind them. If you liked this month’s Pop Culture segment, come back next month for the next hot topic! 

by: Liam Powell

In the fast-paced world of science and technology, recent discoveries have sparked excitement across various fields. From breakthroughs in medical research to advancements in renewable energy, these findings are poised to shape our future.

1. Advancements in mRNA Technology

Following the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are exploring new applications for this technology. Recent studies suggest that mRNA could be used to combat various diseases, including cancer and genetic disorders. For instance, a clinical trial showed promising results for an mRNA vaccine designed to target melanoma, offering hope for personalized cancer treatments.

2. Breakthroughs in Quantum Computing

Quantum computing continues to make headlines with recent advancements that enhance computational power and efficiency. Companies like Google and IBM have reported progress in qubit stability, a key factor in making quantum computers viable for practical applications. These developments could revolutionize industries such as cryptography, materials science, and artificial intelligence, enabling calculations that are currently unimaginable with classical computers.

3. Renewable Energy Innovations

As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, new discoveries in renewable technologies are emerging. Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method for harnessing solar energy using perovskite materials, which could significantly reduce costs and increase efficiency. Additionally, breakthroughs in energy storage, particularly with solid-state batteries, promise to enhance electric vehicle performance and grid stability, making renewable energy more accessible.

4. Understanding the Human Microbiome

The human microbiome—the collection of microbes living in and on our bodies—continues to be a hot topic in medical research. Recent studies have unveiled links between gut health and various conditions, including mental health issues and autoimmune diseases. This growing understanding could lead to new treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of microbiome diversity for overall health.

5. Climate Change and Ecosystem Resilience

As climate change poses increasing threats to biodiversity, researchers are discovering ways to bolster ecosystem resilience. A recent study highlighted the potential of assisted migration, where species are relocated to more suitable habitats to counteract climate impacts. Additionally, advancements in ecological restoration techniques are helping to rehabilitate damaged environments, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem services.

These discoveries illustrate the dynamic nature of scientific inquiry and its potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As researchers continue to explore uncharted territories, the implications of their findings will resonate across disciplines, ultimately shaping a more informed and innovative future. Keeping an eye on these advancements will be crucial for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of science and technology.

By: Leighlah Silva 

October brings transformation with Libra and Scorpio guiding the way, encouraging reflection, balance, and preparation for new beginnings. Aries will need to focus on relationships, resolving conflicts with patience and grace. Taurus may feel uncomfortable with change, but embracing it alongside self-care will lead to personal growth. For Gemini, this month is a blend of social activity and much-needed rest, reminding them to seek balance.

Cancer’s attention will shift to home and family, with emotional insights arising—especially through vivid dreams. Leo has a chance to shine by sharing ideas but should remain open to constructive feedback as changes loom. Virgo will need to reassess finances and values, as small adjustments now will lead to long-term rewards.

Libra, celebrating their season, is encouraged to focus on self-growth and let go of what no longer serves them. Scorpio, meanwhile, will feel the pull of personal transformation, trusting their intuition to guide them through it. Sagittarius is urged to slow down, reflect, and gather insights that will shape future decisions.

For Capricorn, collaboration and networking will open unexpected doors, leading to new career opportunities. Aquarius will need to explore both ideas and emotions, with self-reflection offering meaningful breakthroughs. Pisces, diving deep into their inner world, will find that trusting the flow of life brings them closer to new beginnings.

This October is all about balancing light and dark, action and stillness. Whether you’re confronting challenges or celebrating growth, trust the transformations unfolding

by: Alex Richter

It was Halloween night when Tao, ever the skeptic, found himself standing outside the old amusement park at the edge of town. The place had been abandoned for years, but that never stopped the students from daring each other to sneak inside every October. Tao had always dismissed the idea as ridiculous—a haunted amusement park? Please. It was probably rats scurrying around in the dark and wind howling through the broken windows.

Tao didn’t know what happened next. Now, standing outside the rusted gates of the park, his confidence wavered. The wind whistled through the twisted metal bars, sending shivers down his spine. The moon hung low in the sky, casting shadows across the decaying rides. 

Just a quick look.

He pushes through the gate and steps cautiously onto the cracked pavement. The carnival grounds stretch out like a nightmare frozen in time. The old amusement park looms ahead, a dark silhouette against the moonlit sky. 

Tao pulled his hoodie tighter around himself, trying to fight off the chill in the air, but it was more than the cold that made him shiver. Something felt off. Tao had been here before, years ago, during the day. He remembered laughing with his friends, winning a stuffed animal at the ring toss, and riding the ferris wheel. 

Get a grip, Tao. It’s just an empty park.

But it wasn’t. He could feel it. He knew it. There was something here–something watching him. He hesitated for a moment, considering whether he should turn back, but he wasn’t going to let his friends make fun of him for chickening out. 

As he walked deeper into the park, he saw a flicker of light out of the corner of his eye. He spun around, but there was nothing there. Just shadows dancing under the dim light of the moon. 

He approached the carousel, its horses frozen mid-gallop, their paint peeling and eyes staring vacantly in the distance. Once upon a time, the lights were twinkling and the music was playing. Now, it was just…sad. 

A sudden noise startled him–a soft, almost rhythmic creaking, it was coming from the ferris wheel. Tao’s head snapped up, and he saw the giant wheel slowly turning, even though there was no power to make it move.

Then Tao saw it–a carriage swaying slightly as if someone was inside it. Tao squinted. He felt his breath catch in his throat when he saw a faint, pale face peering at him from the carriage window.

No way.

Tao stepped back. It couldn’t be real. But then the face smiled–a slow, eerie grin that sent a wave of terror crashing over him. His mind screamed at him to run, but his feet wouldn’t move. The ferris wheel continued to turn slowly, the carriage rocking back and forth gently as it made its way down to the ground. 

The carriage finally came to a stop, and the door creaked open. For a moment, nothing happened. And then, slowly, the figure’s hand reached out and gripped the side of the door. Tao could barely breathe as he watched, waiting for whoever–or whatever–was inside to step out.

A voice whispered something, something he didn’t understand. It was soft but enough to make his blood run cold. The figure stepped out of the carriage, and as it moved into the moonlight, Tao’s eyes widened in horror; It was a human–only, it wasn’t. The face was human, but there was something wrong, something twisted about the way it moved like a puppet being jerked around by invisible strings.

“Tao,” the voice said, Tao could hear the strange echo beneath the words, like two voices were speaking at once.

Tao took a step forward, confused. 

“This isn’t real,” he whispered, but he didn’t know if he was trying to convince himself or if he believed that.

Suddenly, he heard faint, distant shouts–voices calling his name. He turned, and for a moment, he thought he saw his friends in the distance, but before he could move, he felt a cold hand wrap around his wrist, tighter than he thought possible.

“No!” Tao shouted, trying to pull away, but the grip only tightened, yanking him.

The figure’s eyes glowed in the dark, its smile widening as it dragged Tao closer to the ferris wheel. The last thing he saw was the gate swinging shut, the metal bars clanging as if sealing his fate. The voices called his name, but it got drowned out by the wind, and then everything went black.

Tao was never seen again. By the next morning, the park was still, silent as ever, and the gate remained closed as if it hadn’t been disturbed in years. The ferris wheel stood motionless, the carriages empty, waiting for their next visitor.

The Poll: Spooky or Feel Good Fall Movies

by: Layla Rodriguez

For this month’s Poll, we have decided on the topic spooky, or feel-good movies during the Halloween season… and we have our results! It turns out that the students of PHS favor the spooky movies over the sentimental ones for the fall season. Thank you to everyone who participates in our monthly polls, come back next month for more!

Spooky but Sweet: Boomallow Brownies

by: Layla Rodriguez

For this month’s Sweet Treat we have chosen Boomallow Brownies! This treat is amazing to share at a spooky party or with friends and family. It consists of a gooey yummy brownie with a cute little ghost marshmallow on top. 

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cup of sugar
• ¾ cup flour
• ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Marshmallows 
• White chocolate chips 
• Milk chocolate chips

How to bake:

Firstly start by preheating the oven to 325 degrees, then line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and set that aside. Second you’re going to need a medium mixing bowl, and in the bowl combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, salt, and chocolate chips. After this you will need a large mixing bowl and in this bowl you will combine the eggs, oil, water, and vanilla extract. Once everything is mixed in its separate bowls you then are going to slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry, and mix gradually until smooth. After the batter is done, lightly butter your pan over the parchment paper and pour in the mix. Once the mix is in the pan put it in the oven for 40 minutes. Once this is brownies are done baking you’re going to take them out of the oven and let them cool while you prepare the ghosts! To prepare the ghosts you start by melting your desired amount of white chocolate for 30 second increments until fully melted. Then melt the milk chocolate the same way. After it is all melted add the white chocolate to the top of the brownie put the marshmallow on top, add a little face with the milk chocolate, then you’re done! Let them dry then enjoy with family and friends!

“Hey Siri, play Happiest Year by James Young” 

It felt like a dream, We were the best team. Two hearts bound so tight, But ripped at the seam.

I got so attached, like my heart latched. But dreams and in the blink of an eye, and now we have to say goodbye.

It seemed so real, but what a steal. But like a wish granted fast, ours just couldn’t last.

One moment we soared, our full hearts were poured. But the sky has to end, and I fear it will never mend.

We crafted a world, your perfect heart whirled. But like anything bright, it vanished from sight.

You were gone so soon, like the sky’s moon. But like the morning dew, it was gone before it ever grew.

-Soulful Scribbler

by: Alex Richter

Sanda Dia, a 20-year-old engineering student full of promise, believed he was to be initiated into a brotherhood when he joined the Reuzegom fraternity in Belgium. Instead, he stepped into a nightmare, one that would end in his tragic and senseless death. What should have been a moment of inclusion and bonding devolved into a ritual of cruelty, leaving questions about toxic traditions and racism within elite institutions.

The initiation process Sanda endured was not just brutal– it was deadly. Reuzegom prided itself on its extreme hazing rituals, but Sanda, one of the few non-white students, was subjected to punishment that went beyond what others experienced. His race and background set him apart, making him an easy target for more vicious and humiliating tasks. What followed wasn’t a series of unfortunate accidents; it was systematic abuse that ultimately claimed his life.

During the extremely long and painful ordeal– lasting multiple days– Sanda was made to consume large amounts of alcohol and fish oil, a substance not intended for drinking, as it would cause vomiting and distress. Then, as his condition worsened, they escalated the torment. Sanda was ordered to sit for hours in a small pit dug in the ground that was filled with ice-cold water. The prolonged exposure to the freezing temperatures caused hypothermia, further weakening his body. This pit was inescapable. 

The abuse didn’t stop there. At one point, the fraternity members poured salt into the freezing water, causing his body to dehydrate rapidly, worsening his state. At this point, Sanda’s kidneys began to fail– a direct result of the hazardous substances he was forced to ingest and the severe strain on his system. Despite his obvious distress, the fraternity members did not show any concern. They laughed, took videos, and treated the young man’s suffering as part of the entertainment.

By the time the fraternity members finally took Sanda to a hospital, it was too late. Sanda was in a state of acute hypothermia, severe dehydration, and organ failure. He slipped into a coma and died the next day. His death certificate listed the cause of death as “multiple organ failure induced by physical trauma and severe stress.” The events that transpired, and the indifference shown by the other members, painted a grim picture of the reality behind closed doors of Reuzegom.

What happened next was as shocking as the incident itself. Rather than facing justice, the fraternity members involved were shielded by their privilege and social status. During the investigation, it came to light that members of Reuzegom tried to erase evidence of the abuse. Messages were deleted and video footage was destroyed. Some of the members fled the scene, knowing that they were leaving Sanda to die. There were attempts to downplay the incident, describing it as a tragic accident instead of an intentional act of cruelty. The fraternity’s influence was palpable, and it became clear that justice would not come easily for Sanda’s family.

In the trial, 18 members of the Reuzegom fraternity were charged, but the charges were strikingly lenient considering the severity of the crime. The prosecution argued for community

service and minor fines. The fraternity members were not even expelled from the university; many continued their education as though nothing had happened. 

One of the most controversial aspects of the case was the apparent disregard for the racial motivations behind the abuse. Sanda’s family and advocates knew that his treatment went beyond hazing– it was an act of racist brutality. Yet, the courts chose to focus on the hazing, avoiding the deeper issues of racism that the case had brought to light.

A former Reuzegom member, speaking anonymously, revealed the fraternity’s internal culture: “It was all part of the ritual. Everyone went through it… but Sanda had to do more. We didn’t realize it would end like this.” His father, devastated and angry, voiced his anguish: “They treated my son like an animal. And when he was dying, they left him to suffer alone.” During the trial, the prosecutor emphasized that this was more than an unfortunate hazing incident. “This was not a simple initiation. It was a systematic assault, a stripping away of his humanity that led to a slow and painful death,” she declared.

Sanda’s death has sparked a larger conversation about the dangerous traditions still present in fraternities and other elite circles. The Reuzegom fraternity, composed of students from wealthy and influential families, fostered a culture where cruelty was masked as bonding exercises. The case has led to a broader examination of how these toxic environments persist and the responsibility institutions have to protect their students.

The aftermath of Sanda’s death left Belgium in shock. His story resonated beyond the country’s borders, drawing attention to the systemic issues of racism and hazing within academic settings. It was a sobering reminder of the price some students pay for seeking to belong in a world that can turn a blind eye to abuse.

The family of Sanda Dia continues to mourn the loss of their beloved son, a young man with a bright future who was senselessly cut short. As they seek justice, they also hope that no other family will have to endure such pain. The toxic fraternity culture that cost Sanda his life is now under intense scrutiny, with calls for reform growing louder. His memory serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lie beneath the surface of these institutions, and of the importance of safeguarding the dignity and humanity of all students.

by: Omar Aguas

When thinking about how to enjoy Halloween as a teenager, it’s important to consider what activities align with your interests and values. 

Whether you prefer attending costume parties, watching scary movies with friends, or going trick-or-treating in your neighborhood, the key is to choose activities that bring you joy and make you comfortable. You can create many memorable experiences on Halloween that you can enjoy recalling back.

One way to make this night memorable is to host a movie night. Gather your spook-enthusiast friends and family to watch the freaky flicks. 

by: Jolenne Woodlee

Depression is a big deal when it comes to people because it can make you lose yourself. Coming from someone with depression it is hard to cope sometimes. Dealing with depression is serious. You never know what that person is going through so you don’t know what would trigger their emotions so you sometimes have to be cautious around them. With medication and therapy, you can overcome your depression if you try your best.

A little bit of a background on depression, depression is a mental condition that can rule your whole life if you let it. So take action and you control your life, not the depression. “ the deeper the darkness the lighter the light” -Anonymous. 

Depression is a serious thing to talk about coming from me if you have the symptoms reach out to get diagnosed so you can get the help you need. If you ever need anyone, go find a trusted person, and if you can’t get ahold of them, you should reach out.

By: Leighlah Silva 

This month’s Eagle of the Month is a standout student whose hard work and passion shine both on and off the field. Samuel Bermea , a dedicated member of the band who holds a leadership position as a section leader and also steps into the spotlight as a soloist. From guiding his section to nailing performances, he has proven that his talent and dedication set them apart.

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced this year is balancing school and band,” he adds. “Both are super time-consuming, and it’s hard trying to keep up with homework while also making time for band activities.” The secret to handling it all? Time management. “I learned to break down my schedule so I know exactly when I’ll focus on school and when I’ll give my all to band.”

Behind his drive is a personal mission: making their parents proud. “My parents have given me the mindset to do my absolute best in everything I do,” Samuel shared. “They’ve really shaped who I am and why I keep pushing forward.”

When asked what advice they’d give to others looking to succeed, they didn’t hold back. “Stop caring about what people think, do what makes you happy. The biggest enemy you’ll face in life is your own mind. It limits what you think you can do and stops you from what you could do. YOLO.”

With all that wisdom, it’s no surprise that they’ve got big goals. Right now, they’re working toward making the symphonic band at the region level. And once again, it’s their parents who push them to keep going. “They are my biggest fans and always support me through everything. In the end, I do it all to make them proud.”

Whether it’s leading in band, hitting the right notes in solos, or balancing the demands of school, Samuel Bermea shows us all what it means to give your best. They remind us that success isn’t about being perfect it’s about passion, grit, and having the right people in your corner.

Congratulations to our Eagle of the Month!

Staff Spotlight

by: Mrs.Minniear

Reflecting on the inner mechanicians of this campus, it is agreed that PHS would not have the same shine without our tenacious maintenance staff. The gleam that our classrooms and halls embody is reflected in the outstanding work ethic of this month’s staff spotlight, Ms.Yvonne. 

As a PHS staff member for three years, Yvonne brings her positive attitude and 26 years of experience to this campus. In fact, she spent her earlier days working at Southwest General Hospital in housekeeping. Yvonne enjoys her time here, and states that her favorite part of this career is “working with PHS friends, staff, and of course, students.” 

When asked about what she enjoys doing in her free time, she says she values “hanging out with family and watching TV.” To conclude her career in maintenance, she plans to retire from Pleasanton ISD. All in all, the journalism staff are grateful to have a kind-hearted staff member in our halls. Make sure to say hello when you see her! 

by: Omar Aguas and Amanda Minniear

This month, the Quill staff selected our new addition to the 400 hallway as our Teacher Spotlight. Mrs.Mitchell, our college prep teacher, graduated from Pleasanton High School and joined our team of teachers this year. 

Mrs.Mitchell has been teaching for 19 years. When asked about her teaching philosophy, she said, “Everyone deserves a second chance and a good appreciation of uniqueness to honor them in class”. Her positive demeanor and energetic personality do not go unnoticed by her students. In fact, her students and other peers would describe her as “ full of energy”. Mrs.Mitchell strives to create a culture that creates a “sense of being a family”.

Overall, PHS is excited to welcome a new teacher with experience and drive to help our students find success. 

Sports Recap

by: Alex Richter and Layla Rodriguez

The tennis season concluded with thrilling matches, standout performances, and fierce competition, highlighted by Colton Sexton and Jace Warner who made it extremely far during this season! The eagle tennis team had a 1-10 loss after making it very far in matches and tournaments during this season. Way to go Eagle Tennis! 

Bowling tryouts kicked off at PHS this October, marking the start of a promising new season as new students showcase their skills and determination for the team. With a mix of returning players and fresh faces, the season is looking exciting for bowling’s second year.

Now for Volleyball… This volleyball season has been very successful and working very hard this season. Our Lady Eagles have been working at trying to achieve the best that they can, and these past few weeks they have taken the win against Carizzo, and Uvalde, but taken a loss to Floresville, Pearsall, and  Devine. A big round of applause to the Lady Eagles volleyball team for fighting so hard this season, it’s sad to say it has come to an end. Sadly the Eagles did not qualify for playoffs this year, but put up a good fight. Thank you to all for coming out and supporting our Lady Eagles!