by: Alex Richter

PHS is excited to welcome Mr. McDonough to the history department this year as our newest government teacher!

Mr. McDonough’s journey into teaching began during his time in the military, where he noticed that many people had a limited understanding of how their government functions. This observation sparked a passion for helping others learn more about it. He now brings that passion into the classroom, making history both engaging and meaningful.

So far, Mr. McDonough’s first impressions of PHS have been positive. “The students are respectful, and the staff are friendly,” he shares. When it comes to teaching, he is especially looking forward to getting to know his students. He plans to incorporate games, interactive activities, and one-on-one time to ensure that every student connects with the material.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. McDonough enjoys golfing and playing Dungeons & Dragons, a game he has loved since he was 13. His biggest piece of advice for this year’s students is to ask questions and start conversations.

We are excited to see the impact Mr. McDonough will have at PHS this year—welcome aboard!

By: Liam Powell

As summer fades into fall, the zodiac shifts through three distinct signs that set the tone for late August and September: Leo, Virgo, and Libra. Each sign brings its own unique personality traits and energy, shaping the way people approach life, relationships, and personal growth during this time of year. Whether you’re basking in Leo’s fiery confidence, tapping into Virgo’s sharp eye for detail, or embracing Libra’s quest for balance, these signs offer guidance for navigating the changing seasons.

Leo (July 23 – August 22): The Spotlight Seeker

Leos are ruled by the Sun, which explains their natural warmth, vibrance, and desire to shine. During August, Leo season dominates the zodiac with bold energy. People born under this sign are often described as leaders—fearless, ambitious, and ready to take charge. They thrive in the spotlight, whether it’s leading a team, sharing creative ideas, or simply bringing life to a social gathering.

Leos are also known for their loyalty. When they care about someone, they give their all, making them reliable and passionate friends. However, their fiery personalities can sometimes spill over into stubbornness or a tendency to be dramatic. Leos want to be recognized for who they are, and when they feel ignored, their pride may take over. Still, their charisma and determination often inspire those around them to be just as bold.

In late summer, Leo energy encourages everyone—no matter their sign—to step into the spotlight a little. This is a time for confidence, self-expression, and chasing passions wholeheartedly.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22): The Grounded Perfectionist

Virgo season begins in late August and lasts through most of September, bringing a major shift in tone. Unlike Leo’s fiery drive for attention, Virgo’s energy is thoughtful, grounded, and practical. Ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, Virgos are known for their sharp minds and incredible attention to detail. They are the planners, the organizers, and the problem solvers of the zodiac.

Virgos value structure and often excel in areas where focus and precision matter. They are hardworking and dependable, always striving to improve themselves and their surroundings. But with these strengths comes the challenge of perfectionism. Virgos can be overly critical, not just of others but of themselves, holding impossibly high standards that sometimes leave them feeling unsatisfied.

Despite this, Virgos bring kindness and stability to those around them. They are supportive friends who offer thoughtful advice and practical solutions. During Virgo season, the influence inspires all signs to get organized, set new goals, and tidy up both their lives and their mindsets. It’s a season for clarity and preparation—a perfect way to transition into fall.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): The Harmonizer

As September comes to an end, the Sun enters Libra, shifting the energy once again. Libras are ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty, which explains their natural charm and appreciation for aesthetics. They are peacemakers at heart, always searching for harmony in their relationships and environments. Balance is the keyword for Libra season, whether it’s balancing work and play, friendships and responsibilities, or even inner emotions.

People born under Libra often thrive in social settings. They are cooperative, diplomatic, and skilled at understanding different perspectives, making them natural mediators. At the same time, Libras can struggle with indecision, as they want to keep everyone happy and avoid conflict. This tendency to hesitate can hold them back if they don’t learn to trust their own instincts.

Still, Libra energy brings beauty and balance to the zodiac. As the season begins, it encourages all signs to reflect on their relationships, seek fairness, and bring more harmony into their lives.

Closing Thoughts

Together, Leo, Virgo, and Libra shape the energy of August and September in meaningful ways. Leo encourages us to be bold and confident, Virgo reminds us to stay grounded and organized, and Libra calls us to seek balance and connection. These zodiac signs show that late summer and early fall are not just about changing weather but also about shifting perspectives. Whether you’re embracing the fiery confidence of Leo, the thoughtful practicality of Virgo, or the graceful balance of Libra, the stars suggest this is a time to grow, connect, and prepare for the seasons ahead.

By: Victory Alcantara

Suicide impacts individuals across the globe and ranks as the second-leading cause of death among teens and young adults aged 10-34. In 2023, it accounted for 49,316 deaths, reflecting a troubling increase of around 36% from 2000 to 2022. This urgent issue highlights the crucial need for awareness, especially during September.

According to SAMHSA, 18.1% of teens aged 12 to 17 experienced a major depressive episode in the past year, and it’s likely that students at PHS have faced similar challenges. The school environment can be particularly stressful with the transition to nine classes this year, significant grades, and the arrival of our first report cards soon, all of which can create added pressure for any student. Fortunately, there are several strategies to cope with these school-related stresses, detailed in our Advice Column article written by Ivy. However, school is not the only source of stress in our daily lives.

It’s essential to know how to manage stress and suicidal thoughts at home. Be vigilant about changes in your friends’ behavior, and also take the time to check in on yourself. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed.

For those seeking immediate support (if needed), you can refer to SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357). In addition, talking to a trusted adult, counselor, or therapist can make a significant difference. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people ready to support you.

https://nchstats.com/suicide-rates-us/

By: Victory Alcantara

In the wake of advanced AI, scientists are debating whether AI-generated papers constitute plagiarism. In the nature.com article “What counts as plagiarism? AI-generated papers pose new risks,” we learn about Byeongjun Park, an artificial intelligence researcher, who discovered that an AI had utilized methods from his papers in its manuscript without giving credit.

In January of this year, computer scientists Tarun Gupta and Danish Pruthi from the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru contacted Park regarding this issue. Later, in February, they identified multiple instances of AI producing the same paper referenced without directly copying words and sentences. The computer scientists argue that this repetition indicates the software is plagiarizing others’ ideas: “A significant portion of LLM-generated research ideas appear novel on the surface but are actually skillfully plagiarized in ways that make their originality difficult to verify.” However, their findings are contested, with part of the team strongly disagreeing with Gupta and Pruthi’s conclusions.

Beyond this specific debate lies a broader concern. With ChatGPT receiving an estimated 2.5 billion prompts daily, how can we be certain that the responses aren’t simply plagiarized work? In today’s world, AI has rapidly increased in efficiency and has even been incorporated into students’ schoolwork. AI can perform a wide range of tasks, from answering questions and writing essays to creating hyper-realistic videos and mimicking entire art styles and animations. Due to this versatility, teachers at PHS have permitted students to use AI as a reference or to generate images for projects. However, while they recognize the benefits, are they fully aware of the potential issues surrounding plagiarism and the ecological impacts it may have?

Although AI is becoming more widespread, it remains a new and imperfect technology that requires further exploration and research. The studies conducted so far paint a concerning picture of its impact. Most people are unaware of the substantial resources required to generate responses from AI. Data centers rely on massive supercomputers to process those prompts. As the demands increase, these machines heat up, necessitating the use of approximately 700 liters of fresh water to cool them down, water sourced from local groundwater. While water is a semi-renewable resource, these supercomputers draw clean water from the same groundwater that supplies our drinking water.

This excessive water consumption has led many towns near these data centers to experience shortages, leaving families without the ability to shower or obtain water from their taps, with what does come out often being small streams of dirty brown, undrinkable water. For teachers, this issue centers around plagiarism, but for many others, it has become a matter of survival.

Illustration: Martyna Wędzicka-Obuchowicz

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-02616-5

Should I feel guilty using AI? By Simon Clark on YouTube

By: Eboni Belyeu

Jane Kenyon, an acclaimed American poet born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was celebrated for her emotionally resonant and simple style. A graduate of the University of Michigan, her life is deeply intertwined with her poetry, further enriched by her marriage to Donald Hall. Her work explored themes of love and loss, capturing hearts worldwide. The posthumous collection” Otherwise: New and Selected Poems “ensures her legacy endures.

“There’s just no accounting for happiness,

Or the way it turns up like a prodigal

who comes back to the dust at your feet

having squandered a fortune far away.

And how can you not forgive?

You make a feast in honor of what

was lost, and took from its place the finest

a garment, which you saved for an occasion

You could not imagine, and you weep night and day                    

to know that you were not abandoned,

that happiness saved its most extreme form

for you alone.

No, happiness is the uncle you never

knew about who flies a single-engine plane

onto the grassy landing strip, hitchhikes

into town, and inquires at every door

until he finds you asleep mid afternoon

as you so often are during the unmerciful

hours of your despair.

It comes to the monk in his cell.

It comes to the woman sweeping the street

with a birch broom, to the child

whose mother has passed out from drinking.

It comes to the lover, to the dog chewing

a sock, to the pusher, to the basket maker,

and to the clerk stacking cans of carrots

in the night.

 It even comes to the boulder

in the perpetual shade of pine barrens,

to rain falling on the open sea,

to the wineglass, weary of holding wine.”

This poem highlights that happiness is an unpredictable “prodigal” visitor, arriving unexpectedly rather than being summoned or controlled.

by: Alex Richter

The summer of 2025 felt both familiar and strangely new. With reunion tours, rebooted TV pilots, streaming finales, and a renewed interest in immersive technology, Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences found themselves scrolling, rewatching, and gearing up, sometimes all at the same time.

Streaming leaned hard into comfort viewing. The effect wasn’t just ratings; it was ritual. Drops turned into events, complete with meme cycles, live-watch threads, and next-day explainers. A show no longer ends in 2025; it echoes. And every echo becomes material for creators. The engine of that translation was TikTok. GRWM, or “Get Ready With Me,” morphed from a makeup chat into a portable format for entire fandoms. The clips are short, but the runway is long: the right video can spawn fashion remakes, micro-essays in the comments, and POV skits for weeks.

Meanwhile, the places where fandoms gather continue to shift. It’s not just group chats and Discord servers now; it’s meetings, homepages, streams, VR plazas, and cozy gaming hubs. Watch parties went hybrid. Friends who used to pass the phone around now pass around headsets and jump into the same digital space for premiere night. If the 2010s were about second-screen viewing, the late 2020s are about second-world viewing, with the same friends in a new room.

Two forces have clicked now. First, the mood: a collective appetite for familiar textures, even among viewers who weren’t old enough to view the originals the first time. Second, the medium: hardware and platforms making immersive, social viewing less clunky and more routine. Nostalgia supplies the story; technology supplies the stage. Together, they turn once-private comfort rewatches into public, clippable moments.

Still, there’s a difference between resonance and repetition. The best reboots aren’t cover songs; they’re samples, familiar enough to hum, surprising enough to keep. The same applies to technology: VR is effective when it enhances presence rather than replacing communication entirely. A virtual watch-along is great if it makes the inside joke land harder, but maybe not if it separates friends behind a screen 24/7.

Where this goes next is already visible at the edges. I’d expect more synchronized drops that braid platforms together, such as a streaming premiere tied to a TikTok challenge or a limited in-game event that mirrors a TV show finale. This creator line turns a costume moment into a follow-the-trend sample. Expect GRWMs to keep evolving into mini-vlogs, less “here’s my mascara,” more “here’s how this new character changes my look for the week.” And expect VR to continue integrating itself into everyday life, especially if you thrive on cosplay, meetups, and shared spaces.

If there’s a takeaway from the past few months, it’s this: we’re not just revisiting old stories, we’re re-staging them in new rooms. For creators, the brief writes itself; they translate feeling into form and do it in a way that makes people feel together. For executives, the challenge is to chase engagement without sanding off the edges that made these worlds worth returning to in the first place.

Summer 2025 embraced both the past and the future. It didn’t choose. It said, “Give me both.” We hit play on the finale, opened a virtual door, and swiped into a GRWM. We’re essentially living the same life with nostalgia in one hand and new technology in the other. The real question isn’t whether the past is making a comeback; it’s how we are incorporating it into our lives for the second time around.

by: Ella Garza

With Hamilton hitting 10 years old on August 6th of this year, it’s only justified to share my honest thoughts on the critically acclaimed musical, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, based on the autobiography of Alexander Hamilton. The musical’s profound impact in 2015 leaves it in a truly special place for me.

Whether you just listen to the soundtrack, watch it on streaming, or see it live on stage, Hamilton is an experience to be had. Originally performed in 2015, and as of 2020, it is available on Disney+, the musical details Hamilton’s involvement in the Revolutionary War, as well as his career as a lawyer. The narrative is engaging and keeps you interested. The soundtrack features an intriguing mix of genres, including R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and tracks like “My Shot” and “The Room Where It Happens” make it so worth re-listening. The musical’s casting of non-white actors as the founding fathers also truly impacted the reputation of the musical in a majority positive way. With all that being said, I think it deserves a heavy leaning 9.5/10. I only deduct points because 2 hours and 40 minutes just isn’t enough runtime for such an amazing musical!

by: Alex Richter

The summer after high school dwindled like the final grains in an hourglass. At eighteen, with his diploma receding behind him like the echo of a bell, Marty felt the future press against him—a current swelling toward the shore. College loomed like a storm coiling on the horizon. Questions poured down: what would he study, who would he become, where did he see himself? Marty, masked in uncertainty, barely recognized what hunger gnawed at him by lunchtime.

His aunt’s small beach town felt like a place where nothing big ever happened. The air was thick with the scent of salt and the sweet promise of fried seafood, while the sidewalks gleamed, polished smooth by generations of bare feet. The ocean stretched on endlessly, silent and simple, drawing a single blue line where sky and water met. Marty found comfort in the town’s lazy rhythm. He wandered the tide line, pedaled from the weathered pier to the steadfast lighthouse, and let the sun soak into his skin each afternoon. It was a summer of restless motion, his body always moving while his thoughts spun in place.

One evening, a deep restlessness seeped into his bones, as if something ancient was stirring. He wandered along the crescent of sand, past where the streetlights surrendered to darkness, until the shore bristled with jagged rocks. The moon dangled overhead—a silver coin tossed onto midnight’s velvet cloth. There, in the hush and spray, he glimpsed a narrow opening in the rocks, like a secret mouth in the earth. Squeezing through, he entered a cove carved perfectly by time and tide, a pocket of the world held apart.

That place became his hidden refuge. Night after night, he found himself drawn there, sometimes settling onto the moon-cooled stones, sometimes drifting weightless on the gentle water, sometimes simply breathing in the hush. The cove held a different kind of quiet, one that pressed close, as if the world itself was holding its breath.

The weeks blurred together. Days rushed by in a mix of sun and sound, porch lights flickered on, seagulls circled above, and sunsets came too quickly. But the nights in the cove felt wide. They seemed to hold more time than they should, stretching the moon’s light for what felt like hours. He carried those hours lightly, never questioning how they seemed to expand.

On his last night, with a packed bag waiting by his aunt’s door, Marty stood ankle-deep in the water of the cove. The moon poured across the surface, turning the stones into liquid silver.

“I won’t forget this,” he whispered. He turned and stepped back through the crack, back toward the town, back toward the clock.

It was only then, when the cicadas suddenly started to cry, that the tide surged forward instantly, and when dawn hurried to catch him, Marty realized the truth. Of course. The cove had never moved at all.

 By: Annameek Haiduk

With the fall season coming in, Lauren Allen has made a simple pumpkin roll recipe. These pumpkin rolls are a great way to introduce that fall mood. 

Here are the ingredients that are needed:

• ¾  cup all purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 8 ounces cream cheese 
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Once you have gathered these ingredients, you can start on this easy recipe!

• Preheat the oven at 350 degrees.
• Prep the pan with nonstick cooking spray, and place parchment paper on top.
• In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients, flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. 
• In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients, 3 eggs, sugar, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and pumpkin until smooth. 
• Combine the wet and the dry ingredients, stir until no dry streaks remain. 
• Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake for 12 – 15 minutes. Check the center with a toothpick until it comes out clean!
• Immediately out of the oven, lift the parchment paper with the cake, and place it on a safe surface. While still hot, start at the short end and gently roll it all the way up. Allow it to cool completely. 
• While the cake cools, mix the cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar together for the frosting until it is fluffy and smooth. 
• Once the cake is cool, gently unroll it, and lather the frosting inside. Roll the cake back up without the parchment paper and put it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. 
• Once an hour has passed, it is ready to serve. Dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into slices. Enjoy!

By: Genevieve Chancellor

In July 2023, a Poteet man, Rosendo Jesus Montoya, was accused of murdering two Leming women, roommates Mary Hinez and Lara West. The tragic incident occurred in their home, where Montoya had been in a brief relationship with Mary before the attack. Although Mary had ended her relationship with Montoya just months earlier, he became increasingly obsessed with her, resorting to stalking behaviors.

Montoya was employed at a local fast food chain at the time, and his coworkers described him as unsettling. Adding to the alarming circumstances, he had purchased a 9mm firearm just a month before the crime. On June 29, 2023, Montoya broke into Mary and Lara’s home, lying in wait for Mary to return. He proceeded to shoot Mary inside her own home in the dead of the night. Following Mary’s murder, Lara returned home, where she was shot. In an attempt to hide the crime, Montoya set the house on fire to burn Lara’s body and the evidence of his presence. He had separated Mary’s body into separate containers that he had prepared beforehand.

Firefighters responded to a 911 call made by an unnamed third roommate, who reported a fire at their residence. Upon arrival, they discovered the remains of Lara West, and it quickly became evident that Mary Hinez was missing. A search for Hinez lasted four days, intensifying as Montoya emerged as the lead suspect in the case. His capture came when authorities spotted him disposing of two black bags behind the fast-food restaurant where he worked. Before officers could reach him, Montoya fled the scene. In response, police divided their efforts, with one group pursuing Montoya while another investigated the dumpster. The group investigating the dumpster pulled out the black bag, which, when opened, revealed partial human remains inside. The other authorities pulled over Montoya and arrested him.

Montoya quickly confessed to the crime of the deaths of Mary and Lara. He led authorities to where he disposed of the rest of Mary’s remains off a back Poteet road. He was arrested for double homicide. His trial was on July 5, 2023, where he confessed to the murders; he was charged with Capital Murder of Multiple Innocents. He accepted a plea deal of life in prison without the possibility of parole, which also eliminated his right to appeal. The tragic deaths of Mary and Lara have deeply affected their families and friends. It’s hard to believe that such a horrific event occurred so close to our town.

By: Essence Croft

Have you ever wanted to connect with exchange students? If so, that’s fantastic! The Quill staff is excited to introduce two exchange students for the PHS 2025-2026 academic year. First, we have Ho-yen, a 16-year-old boy from Taiwan. Ho-yen enjoys spending time with his closest friends and describes himself as “open-minded.” He aspires to be an artist who creates music beats and is looking to improve his English skills during his stay in America. Autumn and his birthday are his favorite times of the year. In addition to being a talented baseball player, he loves mac & cheese and enjoys watching the film “Dune.”

When asked about what teenagers do for leisure in Taiwan, he mentioned, “Shopping, watching movies, playing sports, and hanging out.” Ho-yen dreams of visiting Europe, Canada, and Los Angeles, and he hopes to be a successful artist while living in the United States. As an only child, he finds it easy to get along with others. His favorite color is Tiffany blue, and he has a deep affection for cats.

Our second exchange student is Thimo, a 15-year-old boy from Germany. Thimo takes great pleasure in helping others navigate their educational and personal challenges, and he identifies as an “extroverted” person. He has dreams of becoming a professional soccer player, and like Ho-yen, he cherishes the fall season and his birthday. Thimo enjoys Germany’s food, landscapes, and sports, with his favorite activities being soccer, volleyball, and basketball.

Thimo envisions his “perfect” day as one where he wakes up late, enjoys a big breakfast, and attends an NBA game. Afterward, he would have lunch at “Red Lobster,” followed by inviting friends over for a relaxing time by the pool before falling blissfully asleep. He dreams of meeting his NBA idol, “Dennis Schroder,” and was inspired to pursue this path after a presentation by “Bettha Aichholzer” from Rotary: Across the Globe. A unique talent of Thimo’s is his ability to play the piano!

As Ho-yen and Thimo embark on their American adventure, they’ll discover the rich experiences life in the U.S. has to offer. These new students at PHS truly shine brightly, and we wish them the best of luck!

By Alexis Cook

Baker and blogger, Angie Dudley, also known as Bakerella, popularized cake pops in 2008 with her bite-sized cake balls on sticks, decorated like whimsical characters.  She adapted the concept from cake balls by adding sticks for portability and fun.  

Here are the ingredients you will need:

– 1 box of vanilla or chocolate cake mix

– ½ cup Colombian dulce de leche or Nutella  

– 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream 

For Coating: 

– 12 oz  melting chocolate 

– 1 tsp coconut oil 

– Sprinkles, shredded coconut, or  

– Lollipop sticks

Once you have your ingredients gathered, here’s an overview of the cake pop process:

-Make a 1-layer vanilla cake and let cool.

-Using either Nutella or dulce de leche, crumble cake into a mixture.

-Roll the mixture into balls.

-Dip in melted chocolate coating (food coloring added is a great option).

-Top with sprinkles and let dry.

-EAT!

Castle Crashers – Game of The Year

By Ella Garza

This closing issue’s review section is a little different this month, to end off the year, I’ll be taking a look at my personal game of the year. With its anniversary coming up this summer (August 27th, 2008) I feel it’s fitting to give it some light. Castle Crashers, created by Dan Paladin and Tom Fulp is a critically acclaimed 2008 Newgrounds-born beat-em-up released originally for the Xbox 360’s Live Arcade. The game is set in a vaguely medieval fictional setting where 4 knights of different elemental abilities (poison, electricity, fire, and ice) traverse their land after an evil wizard and a necromancer steal a crystal from the king along with 4 princesses.

With amazing music composed by various Newgrounds users, Castle Crashers was (and is) still a beautiful homage to the Newgrounds community of the time. The gameplay is simple but still captivating. The amount of collectables, including animal orbs, that help you on your adventure as well as better swords scattered about every level, gives the player more to do than just button-mash. It offers an “Insane Mode” for advanced players as well.

Overall, Castle Crashers is a childhood classic for many, and without bias, I’ll have to give it a well-deserved 10/10.

by: Alex Richter

As the school year draws to a close and graduation caps begin to soar into the sky, we, the PHS Journalism Staff, wish to take a moment to extol the remarkable achievements of the Class of 2025. From your triumphs on the courts to your spirited involvement in various clubs, you truly embody the heart and spirit of our school community.

This year, we have watched you tackle the challenges and joys of senior year with an admirable mix of determination, humor, and resilience. You have demonstrated a unique ability to juggle the pressures of college applications alongside the excitement and chaos of prom week. You’ve transformed obstacles into opportunities, showing us that setbacks can serve as stepping stones toward greater achievements. Each of you has contributed to a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

Your journey has been a testament to leadership and perseverance, principles that will undoubtedly guide you as you embark on the next chapter of your lives. As you look ahead to new adventures, please remember the impact you have made here. You are leaving behind not just a memory, but an enduring legacy for future generations to aspire to.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! While your absence will be felt deeply in our halls, we are excited to see the incredible things you will accomplish in the future. You have made us proud, and we are cheering you on as you take your first steps into a bright and promising future.

By:Leighlah Silva 

For the past four years, Farah Standley has made a lasting impact on the Pleasanton High School tennis program. A four-year letterman,she has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the court, earning first team All-District honors in singles and doubles not once, but twice. With a strong competitive drive, she advanced to regionals last year and was named a regional alternate this year, wrapping up the Fall season with only one match lost.

But her athletic talents go beyond the tennis court. As a freshman, she joined the varsity cross country team an impressive feat on its own. Not only was she the only freshman to run with the varsity squad, but she also contributed to the team’s advancement to regionals, showing early signs of the dedication and leadership that would define the rest of her high school career.

Now, with graduation on the horizon, Farah looks ahead to the next chapter: playing college tennis at either a Division II or Division III school, continuing a journey that has already been filled with personal growth and meaningful experiences. “God, my family, and tennis have affected me more than anything,” she shares. “I want to be the best I can be for myself and the people around me. Tennis has given me an avenue to release my competitive energy and relieve stress. It also brought many lessons and relationships that have changed my life forever.”

As she prepares to leave PHS, there’s no doubt that the memories and lessons will remain. “I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world,” she says. “PHS, especially the tennis program, will be a place I hold dear to my heart and a time I will look back on often. These last four years have truly shaped me, and it’s been an honor wearing the green and white.”

By: Layla Rodriguez

To end off the school year, our Journalism Crew decided to choose one lucky teacher of the year… and we decided to shout out Mrs.Breiten! Mrs. Breiten has been a teacher here for many years, and is beloved by so many students. Her positive attitude and her bright smile brings such a welcoming vibe into this school and her classroom. 

Firstly, Mrs. Breiten asked if there was an experience working at PHS that stood out to her, and she replied “One experience that stood out to me the most was incorporating the PAL program into our district. I have had the privilege of seeing firsthand the impact that these student mentors have had on other students in our district.” Mrs.Breiten was very passionate about her PALS program and had many great experiences throughout her first year. 

Next, we asked Mrs.Breiten who was her biggest inspiration in becoming a teacher, and this is how she replied: “My mom has been and always will be my biggest inspiration. As an educator for over 30 years, she prioritized making her students feel safe, seen, and loved in her classroom. Even as a kindergarten teacher she was recognized by former students at highschool awards night for her compassion and for setting a high standard for the teachers who followed.” Mrs.Breiten was truly inspired by her mom, and it is safe to say that she has followed in her mothers footsteps and has created a bond with so many students at PHS. 

Lastly, we asked Mrs.Breiten what she is going to miss about teaching at PHS, and she said “I am going to miss my students so much! Many of them have made such an impact on me and they may never even realize it. I am also going to miss my co-workers! I’ve had several previous jobs before becoming a teacher, and believe me it is very rare to find co-workers who you truly love at both work and outside of school.” 

Overall Mrs.Breiten earned her spot as teacher of the year, and is loved by so many students at PHS. Her unconditional love and ability to care for each and every student will not be unrecognized, and will be in many of our hearts even when she is off pursuing her new career. We love you Mrs.Breiten, and are so thankful that we were able to spend time with you at PHS!

by: Aiden

Congratulations to Ms. Garza for being awarded the 2024-2025 Staff Member of the Year, selected by our journalism staff! Ms. Garza is always in a good mood and has a remarkable ability to brighten students’ days. She is consistently there for them, no matter the circumstances. This award is truly well-deserved. She has dedicated significant effort to ensuring that students receive the support they need, particularly with dual credit courses and college preparation. 

Regardless of how challenging things may be—whether it’s school, work, or personal matters—she always maintains a positive attitude, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. Thank you, Ms. Garza, for all that you do for PHS. We couldn’t be more grateful to have such an amazing staff member like you.

by: Alex Richter and Layla Rodriguez

As the Class of 2025 prepares for graduation, two outstanding students stand out for their academic excellence, dedication, and leadership: this year’s valedictorian and salutatorian. These students have not only earned the top honors of their class but have also made lasting impacts on their school community.

The Quill is excited to highlight valedictorian Lauren Miles, whose remarkable academic achievements and personal development have distinguished her among her peers. Her success is attributed to a strong combination of motivation, balance, and a solid support system.

From the very beginning of her high school career, Lauren committed to doing everything to the best of her ability. “I entered my freshman year with an outlook of putting my best self forward in all of my schoolwork,” she explained. That mindset carried her through all four years of high school, even when the workload became overwhelming.

When asked what classes made her feel especially proud, Lauren pointed to OnRamps U.S. History, AP Literature, and AP Calculus. “All of those classes were very rigorous, but in each of them I learned the most I have learned in any other classes,” she said. Despite their difficulty, she felt the sweetest sense of accomplishment from persevering through each major assignment and test.

Balancing extracurricular activities with school wasn’t always easy for Lauren, but it was essential. “They provided me with a method of relaxation and joy that would then refuel my positive mindset in academics,” she shared.

Lauren credits her mom as her biggest role model in life, describing her as a constant source of celebration and strength. Within the school, two teachers stood out: Ms. Olivarri and Mrs. Lasater. Ms. Olivarri, who sponsored BPA and taught Lauren for several years, created an organized yet creative learning environment. Mrs. Lasater, however, quickly became a favorite for her passion for literature. “I couldn’t have asked for a better role model before I continue my education as an English major,” Lauren said.

Lauren encourages incoming students to slow down and appreciate each moment. “I didn’t think that high school would go by so fast,” she admitted. Watching seniors walk through the halls in caps and gowns as a freshman felt distant, but now that she’s preparing to graduate, she urges underclassmen to “Take the time to soak in the experiences… before they become memories you wish you hadn’t taken for granted.”

As she wraps up her high school career, Lauren reflects not just on academic success, but on the community that helped her get there. “What truly made my high school career incredible were the experiences and memories I made alongside my friends, classmates, teachers, and my tennis team,” she shared. “Success is rarely achieved by one single person, but is often found with the support of those around you.”

The salutatorian for the 2024-2025 school year is Chloe Nechewits. Chloe is an outstanding student and athlete, actively participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including the National Honor Society (NHS), the PALS program, and varsity volleyball. She is well-known for her caring personality and her positive attitude, always wearing a smile.

We asked Chloe a couple of questions, starting with, “What are your plans after high school?” She replied, “I plan to attend Texas A&M University and major in Business Administration. Once I graduate, I would like to open my own business that combines a boutique, coffee shop, and flower shop all in one.” It’s clear that Chloe has her future well planned, and we are excited to see what she accomplishes!

Next, we inquired about her biggest inspiration throughout her high school career. Chloe said, “My biggest role model has always been my mom. She offers the best advice and encourages me whenever I need support.” Chloe credited her mother as a significant influence in helping her achieve her accomplishments.

Finally, we asked Chloe how she managed to stay motivated throughout the school year. She explained, “My motivation during high school has been fueled by the values and morals my parents instilled in me. They taught me to work hard at everything I do, so I have really tried to apply that to my high school career. I also motivate myself because I want to be as successful as possible in life.”

Chloe is a well-rounded student and a determined young woman. We are excited to see what the future holds for Chloe Nechewits, our salutatorian!

May belongs to Taurus and Gemini, and in 2025, the energy of the month reflects both the grounded stability of the Earth sign and the lively curiosity of the Air sign. Whether you’re celebrating your solar return or transitioning into your season, this month holds powerful opportunities for growth and clarity.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Theme: Rebirth, Self-Worth & Bold Beginnings

Happy Birthday, Taurus! May is your time to shine. The Sun remains in your sign until May 20, making the first three weeks an ideal period for personal renewal. You may feel called to redefine your image, set firm boundaries, and invest in what truly matters to you—emotionally and financially.

Key Dates:

• May 5 – New Moon in Taurus: A rare opportunity to set fresh personal goals. Use this to commit to changes that elevate your confidence, appearance, or mindset. 
• May 19 – Full Moon in Scorpio: This emotionally charged lunation brings relationship dynamics into sharp focus. You may need to let go of a toxic pattern or deepen a meaningful connection. 

Advice:

Ground your vision with action. You’re stepping into a new personal chapter—don’t be afraid to say “yes” to growth, even if it challenges your comfort zone.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Theme: Inner Clarity, Fresh Energy & Connection

As your season begins on May 20, the tone shifts from inward reflection to outward expression. The start of May encourages rest, healing, and quiet planning—but once the Sun moves into Gemini, you’ll feel the pull to re-engage, reconnect, and express yourself freely.

Key Dates:

• May 20 – Sun enters Gemini: The spotlight turns to you! Expect a burst of energy, confidence, and charisma. A great time to launch personal projects or revamp your image. 
• May 19 – Full Moon in Scorpio: This may highlight stress or imbalance in your daily routines, work, or health. Time to let go of habits that no longer support your wellbeing. 

Advice:

Use the early part of May to recharge and release old baggage. By your birthday season, you’ll feel sharper, lighter, and ready to embrace new beginnings.

 Final Thoughts

May 2025 is a month of powerful transitions for both Taurus and Gemini. Taurus is grounded into personal strength and fresh goals, while Gemini is preparing to rise with renewed vitality and purpose. Each sign is being asked to own its space—with Taurus embodying worth and resilience, and Gemini stepping into clarity and motion.

By: Jolenne Woodlee

    This May, the Journalism staff would like to address the importance of mental health, as nearly 60% of teens in 2025 struggle with mental health issues, according to the District of Columbia Public Schools. They state, “Nearly 60% of teens report experiencing some form of mental health challenge, such as anxiety or depression. Digital and hybrid learning environments, which are now more common, have created a unique blend of opportunities and stressors. Students cite the flexibility these environments provide but also report lower levels of peer interaction and increased isolation.”

Teens often self-isolate because they feel that no one would want to listen to their problems, either because they have been told they are a burden or because they believe no one cares about what they are going through. The primary importance of mental health lies in the overall well-being of individuals. Well-being involves managing stress and taking care of oneself, and prioritizing self-care is essential because it is ultimately about you.

by: Xavier Mendoza

On May 14th, a remarkably preserved fossil of the ancient bird Archaeopteryx was unveiled, providing a deeper insight into the evolution of flight. This specimen, thanks to its excellent preservation, allows researchers to closely examine features like its skull structure, feather arrangement, and even soft tissues.

  Jingmai O’Connor, a vertebrate paleontologist at the Field Museum in Chicago, stated, “This is the best Archaeopteryx fossil ever found, from what’s arguably the most important fossil taxon of all time.” Alongside 13 other previously discovered specimens, this fossil highlights the extensive evolutionary changes that occurred between creatures like Archaeopteryx in the Jurassic Period and the emergence of modern birds in the Cretaceous Period, according to Daniel Field, a vertebrate paleontologist at the University of Cambridge.

  Dating back over 150 million years, Archaeopteryx remains the oldest known bird. Even after 164 years since its discovery, no other bird species has been recognized as the first bird other than Archaeopteryx. At one time, feathered dinosaurs began evolving features that enabled flight, branching off into the avian side of the family tree. While the exact timing of this transition remains a mystery in paleontology, Archaeopteryx is widely regarded as the earliest true bird, with its closest relative, the feathered dinosaur Anchiornis, just missing this designation.

By: Emily Breier

Golden Sun

Great, glorious, golden sun,

Shine down on me today!

You are the life of all this earth,

You and your magic ray.

You are the life of bird and plant,

All must depend on you. 

Shine down, great sun, the whole day long!

Shine from the heavens’ blue.

And I will welcome your golden rays,

For you mean life to me,

And you mean happiness and health,

Strength and energy.

Shine down, great sun, on flower and field,

And never say goodbye.

Forever and ever give us your light

From out the wide, blue sky.

Written By: Lenore Hetrick 

By: Kate 

A long, long time ago, there was a little, beautiful butterfly named Clorly. She had shining wings painted in shades of pink, gold, and soft blue that sparkled under the sun. She lived in a small town called Taiwany. Clorly was very curious; she always wanted to learn new things, visit new places, and meet new friends. 

One day, Clorly met a bird who adored traveling. The bird shared many fun stories about the wonderful places she had visited. Clorly was so excited! She said goodbye to her parents and decided to embark on a big adventure with the bird. 

She flew across the sky, gliding over trees, rivers, and mountains. After a long journey, they arrived in a new land called USB. Clorly felt excited and was eager to try everything this new place had to offer!

Every day was full of excitement and surprises. She tried new foods, saw interesting animals, and made many friends. At first, it was hard to talk to the butterflies in USB because they had a different way of speaking. But Clorly listened closely and practiced hard. Soon, she could talk to them just like they talked to each other! She felt happy to understand and speak easily.

Her favorite place in USB was the beach. With the weather being wonderfully warm, she loved soaring close to the water. Often, she played there with her best friend, Debary. They laughed, built magnificent sandcastles, and watched the sunset together. 

Clorly cherished her new life. Every day felt like pure magic. She was proud of herself for being brave and for trying new things. Although she missed her family, she hoped that one day they could come to visit her in USB. 

Clorly knew she would always treasure this incredible journey. It made her stronger, happier, and even more curious about the world!