SMALL ACTS, BIG IMPACT: A DAY OF KINDNESS

By Bradley Dillon & Leila Evans

Every year, students dedicate one day to helping our community by participating in different projects. This is a time where students and staff come together to help clean up the school and community. Service day is planned primarily by teacher Jennifer Baker, who puts in a lot of time and effort to make it run smoothly. This year will be our 4th annual service day here at Southeast. “Our MTSS Committee had been talking about ways to add more variety to our days, give students an opportunity for Service, and just have a day in general to look forward to that is different from a typical school day. We all felt it was important to promote the idea of service and this seemed like a great way to do it!” stated Baker. Engaging in community service has a lasting impact on both the students and those we get to serve. 

What many students don’t know is how long it takes to plan service day. Even though this event only lasts a day, it takes a year to plan! Baker states, “I start at the beginning of the school year. Actually, I try to get started at the end of the previous year! It starts with big picture items such as making contacts, confirming projects, determining costs etc. then moves to assigning students, ordering shirts, planning buses and food and all of the smaller details that make the day enjoyable and smooth!” The biggest struggle that Baker has while planning service day is the group assignment process. Baker tries to get students in the projects that they want to be in, but with groups having a limited number of spots, it gets difficult.

Some projects include cleaning parks, cleaning buses and vans, painting murals, helping at the elementary school, baking cookies, and much more. Not only does service day help our community, but students benefit as well. Students get service hours, learn hard work and what it means to be a conductive part of the community. Thank you to everyone who helps and participates in service day!

WHERE SOUND AND COLOR MEET

By Emma Wood

Heading into summer brings a delicious feeling in everyone’s chest. Beauty is suddenly all around us, with greenery sprouting everywhere, flowers galore, and a nightmare to all those who have allergies; summer is the epitome of nature’s artistic involvement. 

The sound of wind through the leaves billowing on a tree, the cacophony of sounds produced by all animals and insects found within the forest, and all the ethereal colors around us all: this shows what beauty truly is.

Southeast mimics this process. Through our bands using a bunch of different instruments to string together a melody, through our choirs using air to whoosh out notes so beautiful it can create tears, and bright and gorgeous art produced by our art classes with all the colors found throughout the world. 

As we head into summer break and exit this last month of spring, our school celebrates this rebirth of Earth with song, dance, and artwork everywhere. 

The Art classes just recently participated in the Portage County Art Show, where 23 out of the 40 submitted artworks earned ribbons through their hard dedication to their craft. Southeast was one of five schools that had participated. Here is the list of all those artists who had won: 

• Ariya Holloway: 4th in Watercolor, 1st in Charcoal
• Chloe Elder: 4th in Colored pencil, 1st in Printmaking
• Allie Hane: 4th in Ink
• Isabelle Goodnite: 3rd in Ink
• Christin Hargett: 2nd in Charcoal, 2nd in Pastels
• Owen Dombroski: 3rd in Charcoal
• Courtney Kelly: 1st in Pastels
• Odyssey Cadle: 3rd in Pastels, 2nd in clay sculpture, 3rd in Digital Photography, 4th in Computer illustration
• Sophia Parravani: 4th in Pastels
• Brie Bierlair: 1st in Sculpture
• Group (Kylee Holcomb, Hailey Sippel, Brooke Hodgesm Aubrey Petrilla, Kadence Lovejoy, and Bella Mowery: 3rd in Sculpture
• Brooke Andrews: 1st in Clay sculpture, 4th in Crafts
• Jude Hale: 1st in Pottery
• Layna Tittel: 3rd in Pottery
• Ava Sayre: 1st in Crafts
• Lexi Richmond: 3rd in Collage

Choir & Band

The choirs and bands have also begun to embrace this idea of beauty. 

This season serves as their final showcase, where all that hard work comes together in a celebration of growth and creativity. From powerful choral harmonies that fill the room with emotion, to the bold and intricate melodies performed by the band, each piece tells a story. One of discipline, passion, and collaboration.

Special performances this year include our spring concert which is on May 18th and 19th, where senior awards are also offered, our spring trip to Cincinnati and Kings Island, memorial day on May 25th, and graduation on May 29th; each one leaving a lasting impression on the audience and highlighting the unique strengths of the performers. These moments not only demonstrated technical skill, but also the heart and dedication behind every note.

In addition, several students were recognized for their outstanding achievements and commitment to their craft. Awards such as the scholastic music awards, the musical scholarships, and director awards are to be presented, honoring those who have gone above and beyond in their musical journey.

As the final notes of the year echo through the halls, they serve as a reminder that beauty, whether found in nature, art, or music, is something to be created, shared, and remembered.

POETRY CORNER

By: Alexis Crum

Have you ever written something you’re proud of and want to be recognized? Luckily for you, poems don’t always have to rhyme. Many students seem to believe that poems have to have an incredibly distinct rhythm and structure in order to be considered a real poem, but they don’t. Poems are an art form, not words in a box confined to specific rules. A form was sent out to our fellow students to capture a snippet of their artwork. Some students chosen for our showcase would like to remain anonymous. As we venture through vastly different poems, I want you to put yourself into these students’ shoes and take a stroll inside their minds.

This first poem is rather somber and it’s meant to be. Bekah Smythers has presented us with a poem about a bittersweet ending. Her work appears fluid at surface level; however, “Sweet Old Willow” didn’t come to her in one piece. Smythers commented, “I usually make lots of adjustments until it sounds good to me. It has to be organized for me, it can’t be out of place”. “Sweet Old Willow” encourages us to live in the moment. “Things can be taken away easily, so it is best to hold them close while you still have them because you can’t get to them once they’re in the grave,” said Smythers.

While people outside of us might leave, or in extreme cases die, sometimes we ourselves lose who we are during our living days. This next poem proves this idea. 

This poem is very similar to the somber touch of the first. Her poem travels through the eyes of the person depression and anxiety has made her and the person she wishes, and/or used, to be. Life can flash before your eyes when you become consumed by your faults.

Additionally, it explores the feeling of how sometimes one might stand in front of a mirror and feel like a stranger in relation to their reflection; it explores the feeling of somebody as they “… look at themselves and see a different version of them and don’t like it. I want the reader to feel sad, and realize that people don’t always like who they are” stated the author. 

It is normal to sometimes feel this way, and this poem connects it. However, poetry is meant to speak to us and help us heal, and through this awareness, it can help us challenge these parts of ourselves, or heal our relationships in turn. Thank you to all of those who turned in submissions! us to live in the moment. “Things can be taken away easily, so it is best to hold them close while you still have them because you can’t get to them once they’re in the grave.” 

SHS SPOTLIGHT 

By: Cali McPeak & Garret Davis

A welcoming environment at a school is important because it sets the tone for everything else. When students walk through the doors and feel safe, seen, and valued, then they value our school more. It also makes students more willing to ask for help and bounce back from mistakes. It lowers anxiety and helps kids focus on learning instead of fitting in. For staff, a welcoming culture means better teamwork and stronger relationships with students. Schools aren’t just buildings, but they are communities as well. When that community feels welcoming, students show up, engage, and support each other.

 Devyn Miller has made a real positive impact at Southeast High School through the way he shows up for others every day. Whether he’s helping a classmate or leading by example, Miller brings an energy that makes Southeast feel more connected. Miller is involved in baseball and basketball, and hopes to be involved in the link crew this coming year. His teachers and coaches both know they can count on him to do the right thing, as he focuses on “maintaining a positive mindset and not letting the bad situations get the worst of me”. He doesn’t just focus on his own success, he lifts up the people around him. That kind of leadership and kindness is what strengthens a school community, and Southeast is better because Miller is part of it.

Monica Kiskadden has a powerful positive impact at Southeast High School through her dedication to students both in and out of the classroom. She creates a space where students feel safe asking questions, taking risks, and growing because they know she genuinely cares about them as people, not just grades. Whether she’s staying after school to coach cross country or track , cheering at games and events, or finding new ways to make lessons engaging, Kiskadden shows up with energy and heart every day. Her encouragement helps students believe in themselves, and her high expectations push them to reach further than they thought they could. Southeast is stronger because of the trust, respect, and sense of community she builds.

Together, Miller and Kiskadden show what makes Southeast High School special. Miller leads with kindness and lifts up his peers, while Kiskadden builds trust and confidence in her classroom every day. Their positive impacts remind us that schools thrive when people feel supported and valued. An uplifting environment isn’t just “nice to have”  it’s what helps students take chances, teachers stay inspired, and the whole community grows stronger together. When we celebrate people like Miller and Kiskadden, we set the tone for a school where everyone can succeed.

SHS CLUBS

By: Tyler Shaw & Ava Lenze

SADD

All around the world students make destructive decisions daily and Southeast High School is not an exception. These choices can alter their lives and drastically affect the people around them. SADD (Student Against Destructive Decisions) is a national organization that aims to prevent risky behaviors among teens in the forms of substance abuse, bullying and impaired or distracted driving. Southeast High School teacher, Stephanie Beitzel, decided to bring this club to our school to spread awareness and encourage students to avoid unsafe choices. As a member of SADD you could look forward to performing in the mock accident, presenting to freshmen in their high school 101 as well as going on the None For Under 21 field trip. 

This mock accident demonstration promotes safe driving among students by simulating a fatal accident involving impaired or distracted driving. The school collaborates with police and fire departments to show the immediate consequences, emergency response, and dangers of poor choices. By witnessing this simulation, students learn how one regrettable decision can irreversibly alter their lives, encouraging them to prioritize safety. Additionally, the None for Under 21 field trip at Kent State follows a similar motive to the mock accident. At the event, someone who has been convicted for murder while being under the influence, an EMT and a grieving parent share their stories of how they lost loved ones due to an impaired driving accident, speak on their experiences and the devastating outcome. Beitzel states “This experience is moving and eye opening for kids to understand the different perspectives. That it doesn’t only affect one person it affects a lot of people.”

If you are interested in being a part of this club, they are continuously looking for new members. Feel free to reach out to Mrs. Betizel or club president Cooper Morris if you are interested in joining!

SCIENCE CLUB

Science is one of the main building blocks of our education system, and Southeast’s  Science Club is one of the best ways you can learn a few new things about science. This club provides a platform to explore STEM projects, collaboration, and skill development. Learning to network and build relationships with those that share your interests are also important reasons to consider joining this club, as it fosters both personal growth and future opportunities.

Science Club provides a fresh perspective of science and fun hands-on experiments.  Human Anatomy and Physical Science teacher Carrie Edwards said, “There are some students in the club that normally wouldn’t be in the club, and that it is good to get them out of their shell and expose them to new experiences while they can.” This space helps to provide an opportunity for students to become more involved in the school community. 

Science Club is looking to expand its involvement in some off campus events and programs. Recently, the Science Club ventured to Holden Arboretum for the Envirothon field trip. This provided the students who went on the trip a deeper understanding of today’s environment. During the field trip the students got to do a multitude of things from listening to speakers talk to getting to move around and go to different stations and learn more about more individual subjects/topics of the environment. According to Edwards, “We need to do more competitions and have more people get involved in the club.” 

Get involved by attending a meeting, whether it be your first extra-curricular or a chance to explore something fresh and innovative. See Edwards for a schedule that pertains to Southeast’s Science Club; they are always accepting new members. According to Edwards, “The club is always an adventure”.

One Team, One Community

By: Alaunte Massrock and Isabelle Goodnite

Spring sports bring many different types of events featuring baseball, softball and track. During our Community Day here at Southeast, a trifecta of events will take place with baseball and softball games, as well as our girls and boys track meet all in the same day. This event gives our community a chance to see spring sport athletes who’ve been working hard all season. This also provides fans a chance to cheer them on. Community Day is important to our school not just to feature our athletes, but also a reunion for the Pirate family. Southeast alumni from multiple different years come to watch their kids and grandkids to excel in what they do best. Our Pirate family is full of love and support and Community Day is a time where it is displayed by everyone together.

The baseball team has had a great season and are in the midst of winning a league championship. The only league game they have lost was a close game with Labrae, score of 3-1. However, they were able to bounce back the very next day with a 6-2 win. The boys team has to finish the season strong against Champion to obtain a league title. On Community Day the boys beat Liberty with a final score of 18-1. Some of the game’s top performers consisted of Maverick Wood: 2-for-2, a double, 3 stolen bases, 3 RBIs and 4 runs scored. Daniel Clint: 1-for-2, 2 RBIs, base on balls, and 2 runners scored. Braedyn Walden: 1-for-2, 2 bases on balls, and 2 runners scored. The girls softball team is having a great season as well. With 9-4 and after the win against Labrae, they are in the hunt for a league title as well. Morgan Muncy and Lylia Lavigna have made a big contribution to the Lady Pirates. During Community day, the girls took down Liberty with a score of 13-0. Some of the Lady Pirates top performers consisted of Morgan Muncy: 1-for-2, a double, 2 RBI’s, and 2 runners scored. Lylia Lavigna: 2-for-2, 3 RBIs, base on balls, and 1 runner scored. Lily Hayes: 3-for-3, home run, 3 RBI’s, and 2 runners scored.

The Southeast girls track team has been striving to win, winning 6 out of the 8 meets so far this season. On community day the girls pushed themselves to win the meet against Crestwood. Top performers of each event during the meet consisted of 100 M Dash: Reyna Ripley – 13.96, 200 M Dash: R Ripley – 29.60, 400 M Dash: Vayda Stelzer – 1:06.37, 800 M Dash: Jenna Canale – 2:34.39, 1600 M Run: Julia Wheeler – 5:04.66, 3200 M Run: Samantha Morgan – 13:39.08, 100 M hurdles: Sarah Craver – 16.75, 4×100: Savannah Bailey, S Craver, R Ripley, Donna Mounts – 54.77, 4×200: Leila Evans, Grace Wheeler, V Stelzer, J Canale – 4:25.24, 4×800: V Stelzer, J Wheeler, J Canale, G Wheeler – 10:43.00, High Jump: L Evans – 4-10.00, Long Jump: S Craver – 14-04.00, Shot Put: Summer Thompson – 29-04.00, Discus: Rachael Bresky – 87-03.50. On community day, the girls and boys track team had their senior night celebrating their seniors last season. The Southeast Boys track team has been pushing to excel in their season so far with a score of 3 of 8 meets won. The boys as well conquered the meet against Crestwood with a solid win. Top performers during the boy’s meet consisted of Shotput: Jordan Muhollan – 38’1”, Discus: Liam McCann – 98’4.5″, High Jump: Ethan Shodd – 5’6”, Long Jump: E Shodd – 17′.5″, 4×800: Landon Youel, Jakob Schaffner, Micah Craver, and Devon Channell – 10.01:00, 110 M hurdles: Chase Neely – 18.41, 100 M Dash: Peyton Donovan – 11.53, 4×200: Logan Blankenship, Sundarius Davis, P Donovan, and Tyler Shaw – 1.39:12, 1600 M Run: Micah Craver – 5.03:11, 4×100: Tyler Shaw, Nathanael Rivera, Vincer Kelly, and P Donovan – 46.62, 400 M Dash: L Blankenship – 55.71, 300 M Hurdles: C Neely – 46.52, 800 M Run: J Schaffner – 2.23:67, 200 M Dash: P Donovan – 23.67, 3200 M Run: D Channell – 11.48:46, 4×400: E Shodd, Anthony Putnat, L Blankenship, and M Craver – 4.02:00.

Our Community Day at Southeast displayed exceptional sportsmanship and passion among not only the athletes but our pirate family as well. Our pirate family gathered together to support all the teams and celebrate with the food trucks. We wish all of our pirates luck, and a great rest of their seasons!

STRAIGHT A’s, ZERO RETENTION

By: Caden Dillon & Abi Lenze

With students taking six to eight classes a day, it comes as no surprise that most choose to cram the night before an exam rather than apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Many students believe they won’t need these things later in life, so they don’t learn in ways that help them retain information. However, it could be argued that this is not entirely on the students but on the teachers and their expectations in the classroom. In order to maximize academics and the learning process, there needs to be more buy-in by students, and teachers need to present the information in ways that will aid cognitive development. 

Learning v. Memorization

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, learning is “knowledge or skill acquired by instruction or study”. Contrarily, memorization deals with compacting information into short-term recall that is likely to be quickly forgotten when not utilized. High school students are masters at memorizing what is needed in the moment and then forgetting all the material immediately after. The “cram and remember” technique is the lowest tier on Bloom’s Taxonomy chart – a tool used by educators to explain the different levels of understanding in students. Unfortunately, most students are not intrinsically motivated to climb this ladder and morph their basic cognitive skills into something more complex. Students should be aiming to be able to create new ideas using the information they are given, or the sixth level on Bloom’s Taxonomy Chart. Student buy-in is the key to their success in school. Like anything, if students put their mind to it, they can do it. 

Why Students Rely on Memorization and the Consequences

Though some would argue that students are lazy and not willing to put in the time or effort into learning new information, this is not always true. Ultimately, what seems to hold student learning back are time constraints, a focus on quantity over quality, and short-term academic success. Teachers are under immense pressure to pack excessive amounts of learning into four-nine-week periods – and sometimes even into two. Units are moved through quickly, as their job is to make sure that all standards are covered. However, this takes away from the ability to delve into topics further or encourage more creative methods of thinking. Repeat this for eight classes a day, and suddenly, the most logical thing to do is focus only on what is needed for exams. Students have been taught how to test rather than how to learn; thus, the cram, test, forget, repeat mantra of high school. 

True Learning

Midterms and end-of-course exams are often used in the review of large amounts of information in a particular course. Recently, however, many teachers have been opting for an end-of-course project for students to show what they have learned. Government teacher Doug Craver stated that “using a variety of ways to teach and test information is important so they retain it better”. This emphasizes understanding over recall, allowing students to use real-world applications and open-ended questions to further their understanding of the topic. Shifting away from high-pressure exams focused on information learned that week toward discussions, practice exercises, and reflection will allow students to receive constructive feedback on the material and guide them toward improvement, rather than receiving a grade and moving on to the next unit.

The contrast between true learning and quick memorization highlights a deeper issue in education. While memorization allows for short-term success, it often fails to provide lasting understanding or skill development. Students who focus on memorization may struggle with enhanced critical thinking, poor knowledge retention, and difficulty applying concepts in new situations, showing the consequences of moving rapidly through topics. Ultimately, adopting true learning not only improves academic outcomes but also equips students with the skills they need to think, adapt, and succeed beyond the classroom. 

MEET OUR CREW

Writers:

Abi Lenze, Ava Lenze, Cali McPeak, Alexis Crum, Emma Wood, Isabelle Goodnite, Bradley Dillon, Caden Dillon, Tyler Shaw, Garret Davis, Alaunte Massrock

Editors:

Kristen Dillon, Jocelyn Nowak, Mrs. Dillon