The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
Blending together a concoction for a science experiment, science teacher Joel Anderson scares his students by bringing excitement and thrill into his classroom for his annual Halloween show. It took about six weeks for Anderson to set up his classroom for the show. “It’s pure terror. I came up with this idea a couple decades ago to do something fun for Halloween. So I pretend to be this mad scientist [that creates] a Frankenstein-like creature [with the class], learning a little bit of science along the way and [then ending] with a laser show. It’s just for fun; entertainment value,” Anderson said.
Haunting highlights
3 days ago
Senior Sadie Burgess squeezes a stress ball as she gets her blood drawn. Burgess was the first student donor of the day for Impact Life’s blood drive. “I'm not good with needles or shots, so giving blood made me a little nervous, but I think I did okay,” Burgess said. “I saved three lives today and I feel like Halloween is a good day to give blood. It's very festive with the vampires and the costumes.”
A scary good cause: West High hosts a schoolwide blood drive on Halloween
3 days ago
Standing with girls cross country team mascot Pump the pumpkin, senior Sydney Etchason laughs with her teammates. Before the team’s senior night, Etchason undertook an odyssey to recover the pumpkin, which had been stolen by boys cross country. “We went through practice, and then a little birdie told me that it was in [senior] Emmett [Vernon's] car. I [offered Vernon] $50 to give us our pumpkin back, and we got Pump back,” Etchason said.
Running shoulder to shoulder
4 days ago
This November, Artificial Intelligence's influence on social media could play a significant role in how voters view candidates. As voters become familiar with issues and candidates, they should also be aware of the potential impact of false information. ¨For me, voting time is very interesting and important because I get to hear what candidates have to say and what they will do to help our country,¨ junior Drake Haun said.
AI in politics
October 10, 2024
Voter registration is open for November’s presidential election through Oct. 9. On Oct. 2, students at West High were able to receive assistance with online registration in the library. “When I went into the library to [register to] vote, [librarian] Lauren Reusch made completing my registration very easy and clear. It’s important to learn about voting and it’s important that schools help with voter registration, because it can be confusing for first-time voters,” senior Gianna Lionelli said.
Countdown to Election Day
October 3, 2024
Latin students pose for a group photo in front of historical ruins in Italy. From March 13 to March 23, the Latin department traversed cities in Italy to immerse students in an educational experience of a lifetime. “I enjoyed being able to learn about the different cultures. [The trip] encouraged me to see other people's lifestyle and learn more about different histories,” senior Suraiya Saroar said.
Tourist adventures: Latin students explore Italy
April 3, 2024
From Jan. 22 through Feb. 1, Parkway West High is displaying a wide array of art pieces made by students ranging from elementary to high school. All classes were represented on the displays in both the art wing and the main foyer of the school. “[Art] benefits me because in the middle of a busy day. I can just relax and have some fun doing art and it makes me happy. I think it's important that you show art in the art show so that people can get inspired by it and be inspired to create their own pieces; it’s really impactful,” sophomore Dhiya Prasanna said.
Brushstrokes of brilliance: Parkway West Regional Art Show returns
February 1, 2024
Preparing for A.P. U.S. History test, Senior Chris Gray opens the preamble of the U.S. Constitution to review the six goals of the Consitution. Taking U.S. history has always been a graduation requirement in schools. “It is essential for everyone to learn about the constitution, because it is important to know your rights,” Gray said. “Even though the original Constitution was written in 1787, and the American landscape has changed from a predominantly farming society to a digital/technological one, our constitution is very relevant today as it was 239 years ago because our rights are the same.”
Students reflect on Constitution, rights in digital age
December 21, 2023
Sophomore Sravya Guda stands outside in a saree, lighting a firecracker at nighttime.
Festival of lights: Celebrating diversity within Diwali
December 4, 2023
a person holding skittles
Colorful chaos
November 13, 2023
Blending together a concoction for a science experiment, science teacher Joel Anderson scares his students by bringing excitement and thrill into his classroom for his annual Halloween show. It took about six weeks for Anderson to set up his classroom for the show. “It’s pure terror. I came up with this idea a couple decades ago to do something fun for Halloween. So I pretend to be this mad scientist [that creates] a Frankenstein-like creature [with the class], learning a little bit of science along the way and [then ending] with a laser show. It’s just for fun; entertainment value,” Anderson said.
Haunting highlights
3 days ago
Voter registration is open for November’s presidential election through Oct. 9. On Oct. 2, students at West High were able to receive assistance with online registration in the library. “When I went into the library to [register to] vote, [librarian] Lauren Reusch made completing my registration very easy and clear. It’s important to learn about voting and it’s important that schools help with voter registration, because it can be confusing for first-time voters,” senior Gianna Lionelli said.
Countdown to Election Day
October 3, 2024
From April 24 to May 3, students in the Parkway West Spanish club sold woven bracelets called ‘Pulseras.’ Pieces were sold outside of the cafeteria by Spanish club members. “It's my way of giving back. It's just a cool project in general for students to be exposed to a nonprofit organization that's not in the U.S. and deals with other cultures and other countries,” Spanish club sponsor Dominique Navarro said.
Pulsera power: Spanish Club’s mission to make a difference
May 13, 2024
Laughing with a group of friends, freshman Valarie Vang takes in the spirit of positivity week. Members of the longhorn council volunteered to work at the table, facilitating lots of excited students. ”I wrote a lot of notes because like I just want the people that I love to know that I love them and appreciate them for like being in my life. It was really fun,” Vang said.
Spreading sunshine
April 29, 2024
The 2024 National Merit Finalists: Starting from top left, Michael Emerson, Audrija Ghosh, David Hawiger, Rajeshwar Jaladi, Serena Liu, Aristuto Paul, Norah Rutkowski, Santosh Sahoo.
Eight seniors named 2024 National Merit Finalists
March 12, 2024
Senior Sadie Burgess squeezes a stress ball as she gets her blood drawn. Burgess was the first student donor of the day for Impact Life’s blood drive. “I'm not good with needles or shots, so giving blood made me a little nervous, but I think I did okay,” Burgess said. “I saved three lives today and I feel like Halloween is a good day to give blood. It's very festive with the vampires and the costumes.”
A scary good cause: West High hosts a schoolwide blood drive on Halloween
3 days ago
Standing with girls cross country team mascot Pump the pumpkin, senior Sydney Etchason laughs with her teammates. Before the team’s senior night, Etchason undertook an odyssey to recover the pumpkin, which had been stolen by boys cross country. “We went through practice, and then a little birdie told me that it was in [senior] Emmett [Vernon's] car. I [offered Vernon] $50 to give us our pumpkin back, and we got Pump back,” Etchason said.
Running shoulder to shoulder
4 days ago
Voter registration is open for November’s presidential election through Oct. 9. On Oct. 2, students at West High were able to receive assistance with online registration in the library. “When I went into the library to [register to] vote, [librarian] Lauren Reusch made completing my registration very easy and clear. It’s important to learn about voting and it’s important that schools help with voter registration, because it can be confusing for first-time voters,” senior Gianna Lionelli said.
Countdown to Election Day
October 3, 2024
From the very first Homecoming in 1941 up to today, over 75 years later, earning the title of Homecoming royalty has been a popular dream for nearly every high school student participating in the festivities. At Parkway West, 10 students were nominated for this honor, with the four seniors serving as the finalists for the sought-after title of Homecoming Queen. "It's so much fun to be able to dress up, get cute photos with your friends and just be able to feel the love from the West Community," senior Gabbie Catlett said.
Meet the court
September 28, 2024
Dressed in West High’s signature red and Carolina blue jerseys, the eighth grade (left) and varsity (right) football teams take the field for their respective home openers. Varsity played on Aug. 30, and the eighth graders on Sept. 7. “Each year brings new excitement and a new challenge. Bringing everyone together to work to achieve one common goal is something that is exciting each and every year,” physical education teacher and varsity football head coach Jeff Duncan said. (Payton Dean and Nikhita Cherukuri)
Kickoff to high school season
September 26, 2024
Junior Sravya Guda dances at Clayton High School to showcase her debut performance: the arangetram. The performance was the culmination of years of effort and preparation from Guda “This was my first time performing with a live orchestra. Usually, in St. Louis, a lot of students don't perform with a live orchestra for everyday events. If you're in India, it's a norm that you perform with a live orchestra, but it's harder to find here,” Guda said.
Blending worlds together
October 10, 2024
Sophomore Isaiah Meese smiles after his Eagle Scout Ceremony. Meese has participated in the scouting program since first grade, learning new aspects of life and growing a community of a second family. “I almost didn’t do [boy scouting], but I'm glad I eventually did start doing it. I regret that I wasn't [working towards Eagle Scout during COVID]. It might not always seem like the most rewarding thing, but if you put your time into it, there's a good chance you'll get quite a lot out of it: friends, new activities and hobbies, or just more experience,” Meese said.
The eagle’s flight
October 4, 2024
Junior Justin Lutz arranges his collection of basketball sports cards. Lutz started his first hand at entrepreneurship with an online store on eBay, dealing and trading in the sports card market. “I was already collecting sports cards [before], so I knew a lot of these players and I understood the market. I ventured into other sports, but I really stayed with the ones that I knew the most, [like] basketball. It’s really important to focus on what you know because it's so much easier than starting completely from scratch in a market that you don't understand. Find something that you're interested in," Lutz said.
Getting down to business
September 26, 2024
This year, West High welcomes seven new teachers from various backgrounds. Each teacher represents a valuable addition to the school staff.
Fresh faces: Welcoming new teachers to West
September 17, 2024
Standing in front of the American Sign Language program’s mural, junior Brooke Hoenecke signs with freshman Darren Young. Hoenecke began cadet teaching for ASL this year alongside working towards earning her seal of biliteracy. “I was in ASL class when I received the email [that I qualified for the seal]. I was jumping up and down with my teacher and the rest of the class. One of the reasons why I took cadet teaching this year was so that I could prepare for the Seal of Biliteracy and be immersed in ASL,” Hoenecke said.
Fluent in silence
May 29, 2024
Junior Sravya Guda dances at Clayton High School to showcase her debut performance: the arangetram. The performance was the culmination of years of effort and preparation from Guda “This was my first time performing with a live orchestra. Usually, in St. Louis, a lot of students don't perform with a live orchestra for everyday events. If you're in India, it's a norm that you perform with a live orchestra, but it's harder to find here,” Guda said.
Blending worlds together
October 10, 2024
Sophomore Isaiah Meese smiles after his Eagle Scout Ceremony. Meese has participated in the scouting program since first grade, learning new aspects of life and growing a community of a second family. “I almost didn’t do [boy scouting], but I'm glad I eventually did start doing it. I regret that I wasn't [working towards Eagle Scout during COVID]. It might not always seem like the most rewarding thing, but if you put your time into it, there's a good chance you'll get quite a lot out of it: friends, new activities and hobbies, or just more experience,” Meese said.
The eagle’s flight
October 4, 2024
Standing in front of the American Sign Language program’s mural, junior Brooke Hoenecke signs with freshman Darren Young. Hoenecke began cadet teaching for ASL this year alongside working towards earning her seal of biliteracy. “I was in ASL class when I received the email [that I qualified for the seal]. I was jumping up and down with my teacher and the rest of the class. One of the reasons why I took cadet teaching this year was so that I could prepare for the Seal of Biliteracy and be immersed in ASL,” Hoenecke said.
Fluent in silence
May 29, 2024
Walking onto the field, freshman Erastus Adewusi wears a pink jersey in remembrance of cancer awareness month. With the number seven on his jersey, Adewusi reflects on his life in Nigeria before moving to America. “I [used to wake up] at 5:30 a.m. and school would end at 5 p.m. [versus] now,” Adewusi said.
Kickin’ it
May 14, 2024
As seniors complete their final assignments, tests and work of the school year, they reflect on their time in Convergence Journalism.
Seniors signing off
May 10, 2024
Business and personal finance teacher Evan Stern stands in front of his classroom. After facing hardships growing up, Stern learned how to deal with them with the help of role models like his dad. “We dealt with some trauma when I was in middle school, and my dad had to be responsible for all three of us while he was working full-time. I know he had to sacrifice a lot. I'm sure it was really hard for him, but looking back on it, he did a really good job . I didn't appreciate everything that he did at the time because I was so young. Now, I'm engaged and probably going to have kids of my own in the next couple of years so I [am starting] to look at things differently,” Stern said.
Flashback Friday: Business and personal finance teacher Evan Stern
February 9, 2024
Holding his two smiling daughters in his arms, Principal John McCabe celebrates earning his doctorate degree. He attended Maryville University for two years and reached his goal of achieving a Doctor of Education: Educational Leadership degree after months upon months of hard work and long nights. “I'm not going to lie, I'm glad I have another night of my life back when I'm not at school till very late,” McCabe said. “I can spend more time with my family and with my friends [who] are here at [West]. I'm really happy about that.”
Principal prodigy: Now Dr. John McCabe
January 30, 2024
Art teacher Katy Mangrich sits in her classroom, smiling for a picture. During her time in high school, Mangrich learned several lessons that she now passes on to her son. “The biggest life lesson that I learned is honesty. I wouldn't say I was the best teenager, but I learned very quickly in high school to always be forthcoming and honest with my parents because it always ended up serving me better in the long run. [My parents] might have been upset with me [and the mistake I made], but I wasn't going down the rabbit hole of a lie because that was just going to get me into more trouble,” Mangrich said. “I passed [that lesson] along to my nephew. Honesty is always your best approach; just don’t lie. I say that to my son all the time. There's no advantage to lying, [and] that's a huge takeaway [from] how my parents raised me.”
Flashback Friday: Art teacher Katy Mangrich
January 26, 2024
Social studies teacher Aaron Bashirian smiles in front of his classroom. Bashirian didn’t know he wanted to be a teacher from early on, but he found the choice to be a good one. “I started [teaching] because there was an opportunity for me to experiment with it. Fortunately, [teaching] was a good choice. In 2012, I became a teacher at Parkway at the Alternative Discipline Center, which is where they send suspended kids to keep being educated if they choose. I spent six years there and then I got drafted to West, [where] I've been for about six years,” Bashirian said.
Flashback Friday: Social studies teacher Aaron Bashirian
January 12, 2024
English teacher Angela Frye stands behind her desk in her classroom. Frye went through a lot of personal struggles to get to where she is today, and with each step in her life, she carries her gratitude for those obstacles. “Everything happens for a reason. I believe in [the concept of] good energy, good karma, [from] being a good person. Those are things I don't take lightly. [Struggles] build character. You really appreciate everything you have when you have to work for everything you have,” Frye said.
Flashback Friday: English teacher Angela Frye
November 24, 2023
English teacher Leslie Lindsey smiles for a photo behind her desk. Growing up, Lindsey participated in many things outdoors, learning life skills that she still uses today. “I loved fishing and was never grossed out by it. I could get my hands dirty and spend time outside; even when it was cold, I didn't care. Fishing takes a lot of patience, and that is [now] a virtue of mine because I have great patience that translates into my classroom,” Lindsey said.
Flashback Friday: English teacher Leslie Lindsey
April 12, 2024
English teacher Diana Lurkins smiles in front of her classroom. Growing up, Lurkins endured family hardships, but despite her struggles, she had a positive outlook on life. “My parents divorced when I was 3 years old. They both remarried so I had four parents, which is extra love and extra support. It was great to have that additional love and support from all directions in my life,” Lurkins said.
Flashback Friday: English teacher Diana Lurkins
March 8, 2024
Spanish teacher Jessica Verweyest stands in front of her Hispanic-themed classroom, decorated to show her love for the culture. Verweyest fell in love with the Spanish language through her travels to various Hispanic countries after high school. “I lived in Colombia over one summer, and then I received a scholarship through the Youth Rotary Club to live in Ecuador as a gap year. Those immersive experiences encouraged me to continue to speak Spanish. In Ecuador, I had the opportunity to do some volunteer work. I worked with an underprivileged group of children between the ages of five and 15 to teach them English. That opened my eyes to the difficulties of communication and turned me to wanting to teach Spanish,” Verweyst said.
Flashback Friday: Spanish teacher Jessica Verweyst
February 23, 2024
Business and personal finance teacher Evan Stern stands in front of his classroom. After facing hardships growing up, Stern learned how to deal with them with the help of role models like his dad. “We dealt with some trauma when I was in middle school, and my dad had to be responsible for all three of us while he was working full-time. I know he had to sacrifice a lot. I'm sure it was really hard for him, but looking back on it, he did a really good job . I didn't appreciate everything that he did at the time because I was so young. Now, I'm engaged and probably going to have kids of my own in the next couple of years so I [am starting] to look at things differently,” Stern said.
Flashback Friday: Business and personal finance teacher Evan Stern
February 9, 2024
Art teacher Katy Mangrich sits in her classroom, smiling for a picture. During her time in high school, Mangrich learned several lessons that she now passes on to her son. “The biggest life lesson that I learned is honesty. I wouldn't say I was the best teenager, but I learned very quickly in high school to always be forthcoming and honest with my parents because it always ended up serving me better in the long run. [My parents] might have been upset with me [and the mistake I made], but I wasn't going down the rabbit hole of a lie because that was just going to get me into more trouble,” Mangrich said. “I passed [that lesson] along to my nephew. Honesty is always your best approach; just don’t lie. I say that to my son all the time. There's no advantage to lying, [and] that's a huge takeaway [from] how my parents raised me.”
Flashback Friday: Art teacher Katy Mangrich
January 26, 2024
Checking out a customer, senior Shirah Ramaji works behind the counter at CVS Pharmacy. Ramaji believes in the passing of Proposition A during the 2024 election to help uplift minimum wage workers. “I’m going to college next year, and it’s going to be very expensive. It’s infeasible to work long hours to get just a little bit of money,” Ramaji said.
Shifting the baseline
7 minutes ago
Senior Sally Peters stands in the history hallway, contemplating her choices in the 2024 United States and Missouri elections on Nov. 5. As a member of Diplomacy Club, Peters has discussed key candidates and issues in contemporary American politics. “[As students], we're starting to become adults. We're realizing how much the policies that are enforced and the laws that make it through the House and Senate are starting to affect us. [Opportunities such as] AP [U.S.Government] and Diplomacy Club [make elections feel] a lot more real,” Diplomacy Club vice president and senior Nidhisha Pejathaya said.
Activity across ages: Generational differences in political engagement
4 days ago
Whether it’s in class, at home or online, students are exposed to politics wherever they go. The ability to speak out on topics has been discouraged for years which has led to ramifications on individuals, communities and the workings of democracy throughout the government. “We should be able to talk about our views, we should be having conversations that can move society forward. Walking on eggshells is making us complacent, and it’s becoming a big problem,” senior Jamie Tiemeier said.
Let’s talk politics
October 11, 2024
Eyes tracing his book, freshman Auggie Prsha works to translate a passage in Latin teacher Tom Herpel's classroom. Prsha decided to take Latin after hearing about the fun classroom activities, but he quickly began to see the effects of learning a foreign language in the world around him too. “Sometimes in English class, I can [recognize] some Latin words, and I notice Latin in other places [as well]. I enjoy the people [and] learning from Herpel,” Prsha said.
The melting pot: English dominance and its effects on society
September 27, 2024
Senior Griffin Beno waits in the counseling hub. Students were allowed to visit counselors without an appointment on Aug. 15 and 16 to adjust their schedules, resulting in long wait times. “There [were] not as many [people at open hours last year], but I think that was because we didn't get the word out as well,” counselor Jen Wibbenmeyer said.
Plan period alignment: Productive or disruptive?
September 20, 2024
Senior Sally Peters stands in the history hallway, contemplating her choices in the 2024 United States and Missouri elections on Nov. 5. As a member of Diplomacy Club, Peters has discussed key candidates and issues in contemporary American politics. “[As students], we're starting to become adults. We're realizing how much the policies that are enforced and the laws that make it through the House and Senate are starting to affect us. [Opportunities such as] AP [U.S.Government] and Diplomacy Club [make elections feel] a lot more real,” Diplomacy Club vice president and senior Nidhisha Pejathaya said.
Activity across ages: Generational differences in political engagement
4 days ago
Mounting school pressure can leave many students overworked and overstressed. Schools must give students the necessary resources to help assuage student mental health issues and prevent the development of serious crises. “The biggest thing [schools] can do [to protect student mental health] is offer more time [to do work], like a study hall, or offer more support from teachers so that students don't feel stressed out and can get help in areas that they need,” senior Bhavya Gupta said.
Stressed without support
September 30, 2024
Like many students, sophomore Medina Nanic experiences pressure to do well in school. Through continuous success and achievements, West has developed a high academic standard for students. “Because we’re seen as one [of] the better schools, we have higher standards than the [schools] who aren’t ranked as high. There’s a lot of pressure on students to do [well] and live up to those standards,” Nanic said.
Under the weight of “obligation”
May 24, 2024
In the 1950s, the first recorded spikes in global temperatures were recorded, and ever since, Earth has been in the midst of a disastrous climate crisis, as rising temperatures wreak havoc on susceptible regions and destroy animal habitats worldwide. Junior Nidhi Pejathaya helped found West’s Sustainability Council to create a space where students can educate themselves about climate change and do their part to preserve the environment. “When you're going out of your way to recycle [or] reuse your clothes to save water, you're saving people. You're saving adults, you're saving families, you're saving children. You're saving a whole generation. Just because we don't see it doesn't mean it's not happening,” Pejathaya said.
The green generation
April 22, 2024
Across the United States, state Congresses have seen an uptick in bills aiming to further particular political ideologies in the classrooms, which raises concerns about the place of political battles within classrooms. In Dec. 2023, Francis Howell School District’s School Board in St. Charles County voted to pull two elective courses centered around Black history from the curriculum, later stating that the courses could possibly return if they adhered to the board’s definition of “politically neutral.” The case of Francis Howell School District and their rescinding of legitimate classes centered around topics of political interest is just another example of thinly-veiled censorship that has become increasingly popular throughout the country within the past half-decade.
Classrooms should not be political battlefields
March 31, 2024
Sixpence None The Richer guitarist Matt Slocum met vocalist Leigh Nash in New Braunfels, Texas. Their new EP, “Rosemary Hill,” is named after the street Slocum grew up on and takes inspiration from his and Nash’s childhoods.
Return to roots
October 23, 2024
As the leaves turn orange, the weather gets colder and a vivid cinnamon and pumpkin scent wafts in the air, you know fall is approaching.
Fall favorites: Essentials for the perfect season
October 10, 2024
On “The Joshua Tree,” U2 expressed their love for the ideals that founded the United States — and their disappointment with our country’s efforts to live up to those values. The album outlines the stark difference between America as popularly conceived and America in reality, reminding the country that we have a long way to go but delivering a hopeful message about our ability to get there.
The two Americas
September 24, 2024
Throughout the year, the Pathfinder has welcomed an excellent addition of new stories to our site. Certain stories have especially caught viewers’ and writers’ eyes: take a look at this year’s extraordinary articles in the 2023-2024 Pathfinder Wrapped.
2023-2024 Pathfinder Wrapped
May 30, 2024
Resting on a map of Gaza, surrounded by a littering of lyric cutouts from the recently released diss tracks from rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar, sits a phone playing rapper Macklemore’s newest single “Hind’s Hall.” Dedicated to student protesters in the United States and current victims of the conflict in Gaza, the song addressed national leaders who ignore the current conflict as well as the public community in a message of resistance. “Art, in its purest form, is resistance. Art, in its purest form, is from the heart, and it connects with people. It brings people together. The day that I stop following my heart and talking about things in the world that matter is the day that I don’t need to be on stage anymore. Today is not that day,” Macklemore announced at a live concert in Wellington, New Zealand on March 13.
Music for a movement
May 29, 2024
Sixpence None The Richer guitarist Matt Slocum met vocalist Leigh Nash in New Braunfels, Texas. Their new EP, “Rosemary Hill,” is named after the street Slocum grew up on and takes inspiration from his and Nash’s childhoods.
Return to roots
October 23, 2024
On “The Joshua Tree,” U2 expressed their love for the ideals that founded the United States — and their disappointment with our country’s efforts to live up to those values. The album outlines the stark difference between America as popularly conceived and America in reality, reminding the country that we have a long way to go but delivering a hopeful message about our ability to get there.
The two Americas
September 24, 2024
Though the 13 year anticipation of graduation has finally culminated to its climax, the conflicted emotional baggage that comes along with it hasn’t settled down just yet. With one final summer left with the class of 2024, reminiscing in the good times, while making memories and preparing for the future, the tracks associated with the season are bound to become, in the words of singer-songwriter Dua Lipa, “Future Nostalgia.” So blast that song, scream that tune and anything else that’ll solidify the moments and memories made with the graduated seniors.
You’re gonna go far
May 20, 2024
Students’ favorite songs from the Greek, Urdu, Telugu, Haitian Creole, Cuban Spanish and Sanskrit languages.
FINAL six songs for your international playlist
May 16, 2024
Rested against a rainbow of colored pencils, a phone plays singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams’ single “Risk.” Abrams released the song as the lead single to her upcoming album “The Secret of Us.” “We had real, true fun writing this album. There were also the occasional tears. Audrey [Hobert] and I wrote ‘Risk’ on our couch at home,” Abrams wrote on Instagram.
“Risk”-ing it all: Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams captures the most universally frustrating feeling
May 8, 2024
Marking the 25th anniversary of the Pantone Color of the Year, 2024’s color is revealed: Peach Fuzz.
Stay peachy
February 28, 2024
Students’ favorite songs from the Korean, Bengali, Vietnamese, Russian, Tamil and Farsi languages.
Six MORE songs for your international playlist
January 29, 2024
(Photo from Netflix) Jackie Howard stands in between brothers Alex Walter and Cole Walter as they fight to win her love. The love triangle looks to continue with Netflix’s recent renewal of the teen drama show for a second season.
Like every other teen drama: “My Life With the Walter Boys”
January 23, 2024
To showcase the diversity of West High, six students come forward to share parts of their own culture with the school by sharing their favorite songs in Hindi, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, Mandarin and Arabic.
Six songs for your international playlist
January 12, 2024
A scrapbook-style graphic that reads "Pathfinder Favs."
Pathfinder’s 2023 favorites
January 3, 2024
Before there was Apple Music or Spotify, there was the Sony Walkman. Now reduced to only the latter word, a Walkman was just a portable cassette player, but in the ‘90s, they were a vital accessory. The Sony Walkman was the first piece of music media to allow people to travel with their music.
30 years later: The albums of 1994
April 11, 2024
Putting stickers on guitars and equipment has been a popular style in the rock scene for decades. For female guitarists Nancy Wilson and Joan Jett, decorating their gear with stickers helped promote their political and personal values.
Women who rock
March 12, 2024
No matter the form of music — vinyls, cassettes, CDs and playlists — anti-love songs have been apparent for decades. Whatever the genre or the context of the source material, when artists choose to be open about the realities of their relationships, it leads to vulnerability in their writing, ultimately, making timeless tracks.
Love bites
February 14, 2024
A raised fist has been a staple piece for protests amongst the United States for decades. The forceful salute is intertwined with some of the most tumultuous events involving racism. A powerful medium that artists have used is music, which has been used to push back against the constant oppression that happens in society.
Honoring Black artists
February 1, 2024
2023 was defined by female vocalists such as Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift and Paramore’s Hayley Williams as their diversity and talent amongst their respective genres topped the musical charts. Williams took to Instagram to show her gratitude for having owned the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top 100 chart. “We know enough by now to know success doesn’t equal value. That being said, to experience the [No. 1] on this album, as this version of Paramore, is such a sweet and surreal moment to celebrate together,” Williams wrote.
A musical recap of 2023
December 19, 2023
Before there was Apple Music or Spotify, there was the Sony Walkman. Now reduced to only the latter word, a Walkman was just a portable cassette player, but in the ‘90s, they were a vital accessory. The Sony Walkman was the first piece of music media to allow people to travel with their music.
30 years later: The albums of 1994
April 11, 2024
Putting stickers on guitars and equipment has been a popular style in the rock scene for decades. For female guitarists Nancy Wilson and Joan Jett, decorating their gear with stickers helped promote their political and personal values.
Women who rock
March 12, 2024
No matter the form of music — vinyls, cassettes, CDs and playlists — anti-love songs have been apparent for decades. Whatever the genre or the context of the source material, when artists choose to be open about the realities of their relationships, it leads to vulnerability in their writing, ultimately, making timeless tracks.
Love bites
February 14, 2024
A raised fist has been a staple piece for protests amongst the United States for decades. The forceful salute is intertwined with some of the most tumultuous events involving racism. A powerful medium that artists have used is music, which has been used to push back against the constant oppression that happens in society.
Honoring Black artists
February 1, 2024
2023 was defined by female vocalists such as Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift and Paramore’s Hayley Williams as their diversity and talent amongst their respective genres topped the musical charts. Williams took to Instagram to show her gratitude for having owned the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top 100 chart. “We know enough by now to know success doesn’t equal value. That being said, to experience the [No. 1] on this album, as this version of Paramore, is such a sweet and surreal moment to celebrate together,” Williams wrote.
A musical recap of 2023
December 19, 2023
College Bound Ep. 1: Senior Siena Snyder, University of Michigan
College Bound Ep. 1: Senior Siena Snyder, University of Michigan
3 days ago
Behind the lens
Behind the lens
October 11, 2024
Serenading her class to the tune of “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz, junior Olivia Owens makes her debut appearance as a member of the Jazz Choir. Owens has been a part of the choir program since her freshman year; last year, she auditioned and became one of 16 students selected as a member of the prestigious performance group. “It was nerve-wracking to perform in front of the whole school, but it was fun. It takes a lot of practice, but my confidence comes from the support of my group, my teacher and knowing that everybody's there for me,” Owens said.
Rallying together: A day of school spirit
October 4, 2024
Horns up West High!
Best of Homecoming spirit week 2024
September 24, 2024
Spreading paw-sitivity
Spreading paw-sitivity
September 16, 2024
Who won the Pathfinder Bachelorette???
Who won the Pathfinder Bachelorette???
February 16, 2023
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine’s Day Edition EP. 3
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine’s Day Edition EP. 3
February 15, 2023
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine’s Day Edition EP. 2
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine’s Day Edition EP. 2
February 14, 2023
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine's Day Edition EP. 1
Pathfinder Bachelorette: Valentine’s Day Edition EP. 1
February 13, 2023
The "if" and "what"s of the Feminist Club
The “if” and “what”s of the Feminist Club
December 5, 2022
College Bound Ep. 1: Senior Siena Snyder, University of Michigan
College Bound Ep. 1: Senior Siena Snyder, University of Michigan
3 days ago
Senior Michael Emerson exchanges ideas with junior Will Gonsoir in history class. They discussed immigration as the topic of their debate. “I really enjoyed the experience. I think it opened my mind to new ideas, and that’s what matters at the end of day,” Emerson said.
Pathfinder Debates: Immigration
May 9, 2024
In perfect shooting form and with eyes on the rim, junior Tyler Kuehl is about to shoot his next basket in the last game of the season against Marquette High School. Kuehl has been playing basketball since he was 5. “Even though I played basketball all my life, the game-winning shots can be pressure, it's confidence. If you're going into that shot and not thinking that you're gonna make it, it's obviously not going in. And if you believe, [it will]. That's the only way you can succeed,” Kuehl said.
Athletes of West: Episode 6
January 19, 2024
Seniors Serena Liu and Sakenah Lajkem are cobbed onto a car.
Senioritis: Masks, memories, milestones
November 20, 2023
Senior Chris Gray and senior Max Brophy get ready to face off in their debate on gun control in America. Both of them have been discussing political issues since middle school history class. “I think it’s important to have these difficult conversations so that we can all learn from each other on important issues,” Gray said.
Pathfinder Debates: Gun control
November 6, 2023
In perfect shooting form and with eyes on the rim, junior Tyler Kuehl is about to shoot his next basket in the last game of the season against Marquette High School. Kuehl has been playing basketball since he was 5. “Even though I played basketball all my life, the game-winning shots can be pressure, it's confidence. If you're going into that shot and not thinking that you're gonna make it, it's obviously not going in. And if you believe, [it will]. That's the only way you can succeed,” Kuehl said.
Athletes of West: Episode 6
January 19, 2024
Loading the hands and getting ready to swing it, Senior Grant Meert is taking his place to face the pitch in the last game of the season against Marquette High School. Meert has been playing baseball since age three.“I love baseball and like with anything else in life, you're gonna have your ups and downs,” Meert said.
Athletes of West: Episode 5
June 1, 2023
Now presenting, Athletes of West, a podcast featuring Longhorn athletes each session.​​ We bring you stories from the players, both on the ground and behind the scenes, covering individual accomplishments, records they set and break, endurance and fitness, sports leadership and many more. Stay tuned!!
Athletes of West: Episode 4
January 26, 2023
Athletes of West: Episode 3
June 3, 2022
Athletes of West: Episode 2
June 1, 2022
“I’m the vice president of the Muslim Student Association (MSA), the co-president of the Women in Healthcare club, and [am also in] of ABC club, NHS first aid, the diplomacy club, and other volunteering activities [in my community.] My main goal in these clubs is to be actively engaged in the school and give back to the community. [Through these opportunities,] I’ve learned to be a better organizer and planner, especially with my roles in MSA and Women in Healthcare. I think these skills will be valuable towards the career path I choose. I’m particularly interested in the medical field, which is why I co-founded Women in Healthcare. As a freshman, I was the chief financial officer of the Muslim Student Association. This year, I’m the vice president. We’ve worked hard to improve the organization and make the club more fun and interactive for everyone. It’s been great to see the club grow, with a lot of new freshmen joining. Balancing all of these activities with my schoolwork can be challenging at times, but the whole team helps with the workload. A misconception others have about the MSA is that [there is minimum involvement.] One time I went to stamp the MSA flyers to get approved down at the office, and the woman was hesitant about it. She asked how many people actually come to our meetings, so I explained that we usually have 35 to 40 people. Parkway West includes lots of diversity and it [helps strengthen] our community.” – Yusra Khan, 10
Yusra Khan
October 25, 2024
“Sports [can] teach you a lot of things, and playing on the team can teach you leadership. When you're working with a bunch of guys, you’ve got to know what's best for the team, and you've got to do whatever is best for the team. Commitment is a big part of sports. Some days, you don't want to show up to practice, [but] you have to do it because it's what's best for the team. You just [have] to be committed. You [gain] better relationships and you make a lot of friends when you play sports. You're spending at least two hours a day with those people, so you build really strong relationships with your teammates. If you put in the work, you're bound to get better.” - Henry Wild, 12
Henry Wild
October 17, 2024
“I moved here halfway through my freshman year. [Many] things were a culture shock, and I'm still learning. It wasn't hard to get accustomed to, [just new]. There are some parts of my Indian culture that I like to [emphasize]. My best friend is also Indian, she's Hindu, and we both celebrate our holidays together. We have that sort of bonding, but we also celebrate Christmas and dress very Western. There are times, like during Eid, I want to dress a bit more traditional. My grandmother fell sick at the start of [quarantine]. I could only see her once before she passed away. When I got to see her, she was fine. Then, she started having pain when she was walking. I thought it was just because of [her] getting old. I didn't realize that she was going to be gone so fast. I didn't spend enough time with her. I [knew she was] getting sick, but I couldn't see her. It felt like there was nothing I could do in the moment. [A piece of advice I would give to others is] don't be so hard on yourself. Think about the moments you did have with them, rather than the time you didn't spend with them. That's what helped me get through it.” - Samaira Siddiqui, 12
Samaira Siddiqui
October 16, 2024
“At one point, I would love to have people look up to me and [allow myself to] be really good at sports. One day [I’d like to] be as good as [my brother, senior] Lukas Peterson. A couple days ago, I had a football game and [freshman quarter-back] Tanner Hickert threw me a pass and I caught it at the 30 yard line and ran. [I] almost ran it in the end zone, but I stopped because I heard someone behind me. I really regret that because I could have scored, and if we [had] scored, we would have been only down by three. We still lost in the end, but I feel like if we scored, our [enthusiasm] would [have been] up more. I love football and winning is just a good feeling. Obviously, you don't want to lose, and I'm competitive, [but] football is just a great sport. Hopefully [in the future], I'll pursue it and play in college.” - Jack Peterson, 9
Jack Peterson
October 15, 2024
“In eighth grade, I took a video production class in which I learned the basics of video recording and photography. I just find it fascinating how, depending on how you look at things, or in a wide-angle position, it will look different to you. I also get inspired from seeing how great things look when you look at them from [different] perspectives. I couldn't help myself from just trying to find angles to make [where] if I were to take a picture, it would look really good. I think that's also how it started. The city can look pretty great if you take a look at it from an artistic view when taking pictures. If you find just the right angle in the city, you can make it look like it's a completely different place.” - Angel Olvera Galan, 9
Angel Olvera Galan
October 10, 2024
The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
All content by Shanna Bailey
Speak to Silence tackles eating disorders and oening up tough conversations in its first chapter.

[Photo] Speak to Silence: Introduction

Susie Seidel, Convergence Media Editor
January 21, 2020
Missouri law requires public schools to recite the Pledge of Allegiance once per school day, though individual students are not required to participate.

[Photo] Students share their reasons to stand

January 22, 2020
Starting in the 2020-2021 school year, first semester finals will commence in the second week of school after winter break.

[Photo] First semester finals set to commence after winter break

Charlotte Zera, Convergence Journalism Writer
December 20, 2019
Photo illustration of athletes who find strength in vegan and vegetarian diets.

[Photo] Plant-powered athletes: Students share their experiences in sports with modified diets

Susie Seidel, Convergence Media Editor
January 13, 2020
Eyeing up breakfast options, seniors Nolan Barbre and Jake Juenger take in the sights and smells of Dominique Ansel Bakery during their first morning in New York City. Marketing students go on an annual trip to tour New York’s major businesses and learn about marketing strategies. “I got a piece of chocolate cake for breakfast, which was a pretty great start to the day,” Barbre said. “Everything in New York is so much fun and totally different than an everyday routine back at home.”

Photo of the week – Nov. 11

Caroline Judd, Creative Director
November 15, 2019
Our school has not been able to recycle properly due to excess trash in the recycling bins.

[Photo] Editorial: It’s time to clean up

Pathfinder Editorial Board
October 31, 2019
Perfecting a hyperextended toe touch, sophomore Emily O’Connor smiles at the camera. Having previously participated in gymnastics and competitive cheer for seven and five years respectively, this was O’Connor’s first season on the school cheer team. “I had a few friends on the [school] team who encouraged me to try out, and I felt it would be fun to have a change from competitive cheer,” O’Connor said. “I honestly didn’t expect to have so much fun at the football games; it’s so fun cheering for your friends who are playing and for your friends in the stands.”

[Photo] Un-be-leaf-able season: Fall sports recap

Nayeon Ryu, Video Editor
October 29, 2019
ACT introduced a new policy with a variety of options effective September 2020.

[Photo] Students and faculty react to ACT’s updates effective September 2020

Lydia Roseman, News and Sports Editor
October 11, 2019
Getting ready to bite into food truck menu options from UKRAFT Eats, junior Claire Middleton and seniors Aaliyah Weston and Reema Alhachami learn about the logistics of owning a food truck from owner and operator Matt Ratz. Marketing I teacher Holly Weber brought in Ratz to guide students as they create their own food trucks for their class projects, and inspire them to set and accomplish goals. "There are so many different options of what you can eat, or what [the truck] can look like and hearing about how it started was so interesting to me,” Middleton said. “[Ratz] said specifically that you should follow your dreams, and you have an idea or a vision of something you really want to do, go for it and go all in. It gave me more of a positive outlook and if I do set my mind to something I can get there and accomplish it.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – Sept. 23

Susie Seidel, Convergence Media Editor
September 27, 2019
Holding hand-made signs in front of St. Louis City Hall, sophomore Maura Collins, senior Sabrina Bohn, juniors Ulaa Kuziez, Abby Caudill, Zoe Rutledge and Gillian Davis and senior Jack Carusa protest against inaction on environmental crises during school hours Sept. 20. Kuziez participated in the organization of the climate strike to plan out the logistics of the walkout and facilitate greater high school involvement. “The climate crisis is obviously the biggest threat to our lives and to our future. I still don’t think many people are treating it as a crisis, but it’s imminent, and it’s already happening right now,” Kuziez said. “A lot of the things [the speakers] were talking about was new information, so I treated it as a learning experience so I could become more educated about the issue. One of the speakers talked about how the climate crisis is fueled by capitalism and greed from fossil fuel companies who care about profits [more than] people. Her speech was talking about how it is important to think about the climate crisis as an extension of these capitalistic, colonial systems.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – Sept. 16

Nayeon Ryu, Video Editor
September 20, 2019
Completing a thigh stand, senior Sam Buehler finishes the boys' cheer routine. The seniors had two practices leading up to homecoming week, both two hours long. “Performing in front of everyone was pretty nerve racking. I was in the front row for whatever reason, so standing in front of all your peers can be intimidating. Once I got going though, I noticed that I wasn't really nervous anymore. I just wanted to make sure I was doing it right,” Buehler said.

Posing for the crowd, the Poms team dances to pop hits. Senior captain Sadie Hershenow helped guide the team through the practice-filled week. “When we were practicing the dance, it felt like we never really got it, but when we performed, everything seemed perfect,” Hershnow said. “The more we do it, the better we become as a team.”

Leading the team, senior Poms captain Alexis Nadreau hits a toe touch. The seven minute dance took 18 hours to learn. “There was so much adrenaline, especially at the start of the routine. The whole school was cheering, and it was so hard to think straight because I was so focused on dance and the moves. It all went by so fast that when it was over I couldn’t even remember what I had just done,” Nadreau said.

Standing front and center, senior Tywan Simms leads the district Step Team. To differentiate West students from other Parkway schools, students sported columbia blue t-shirts. “Any facial expression that you see is how I feel. In this moment, it’s all the hype and amp the crowd gave me. It’s so cool to hear all the screaming and energy,” Simms said.

Hyping up the school, senior Nolan Barbre performs the haka chant. Barbre and senior Brayden Eddy taught it to the rest of the senior men as a unique addition to the pep rally. “It's usually done before sporting events, so we wanted to do it before the assembly because we thought it would get everyone up and cheering,” Barbre said.

Starting the senior men’s cheer dance with the haka, a tribal dance performed in Polynesian ceremonies, senior Brayden Eddy leads the group. Eddy and fellow senior Nolan Barbre taught the group the haka in order to get them excited about the pep rally. “I went to a football camp in Utah where I learned it, and it was cool to lead it because Nolan and I have always wanted to do it in front of people,” Eddy said.

[Photo] Pulling out all the stops for the fall Pep Rally

September 16, 2019
Performing a solo, senior and co-captain Grace Kroner dances with the varsity cheerleading team. The routine was choreographed in May, and the cheer team practiced three times a week for two hours to perfect it. “Performing was such an adrenaline rush and it was one of my favorite things to be on a mat performing for an audience,” Kroner said. “Knowing that my last pep rally is over, and I’ll never experience anything like that again, really pulls at my heartstrings.”

Hugging her tightly, senior Kelly Wehrmeister embraces senior Ema Causevic to congratulate her on a job well done on her solo in the jazz choir performance. After the performance, Wehrmeister ran down the bleachers to hug Causevic, knowing that she had been very nervous to perform in front of the school. “I was really proud of her because she did so well,” Wehrmeister said. “While she was singing, whenever she got nervous, she would look up at me in the bleachers, and I would be singing along with her and she would smile. This is what friends do; they’re there in the difficult parts, and they’re there in the happy parts.”

Senior Theresa Monteleone keeps the beat for the jazz choir. Monteleone felt scared because she was the main source of the beat within the choir. “The audience being so pumped up helped out the jazz choir,” Monteleone said. “It felt really good. Honestly, to be the one keeping the beat felt really cool.”

Yelling and shouting during the step team performance, senior Jonese Shead hypes up the student section with a drum. Shead was excited to see the winners of the spirit court. “My favorite part of the pep rally was the step team performance. They gave off so much energy and gave everyone else a lot of energy,” Shead said. “My friends Linsey Green and Cameron Neisler won Mr. and Mrs. Spirit, and my best friend is Linsey Green. I was just so excited for her.”

Jumping in front of the audience, senior Brady Sweet celebrates after the football team runs into the gym to “Here Comes the Boom” by Nelly. The team huddled together and did a cheer before heading to their seats. “There was definitely lots of excitement because everyone got to shine. Knowing that everyone in the school cheers for the football team was a really good feeling,” Sweet said.

Microphone in hand, senior emcee Cameron Neisler introduces fall sports teams as they enter the gym. As part of his outfit, Neisler repurposed senior floor decorations by cutting gold string that had fallen and wrapping it around his waist. “[The pep rally] was a lot more exciting [as a senior] and kind of surreal,” Neisler said. “You want to just enjoy every moment and not take for granted the times you have with your classmates.”

Screaming with the senior men, senior TJ Fleming gets fired up to perform the traditional senior boys dance in front of the entire school. The dance was taught by seniors Nolan Barbre and Brayden Eddy. “We don't really all talk outside of the dance, but practicing for the dance we all clicked which was fun. The Haka dance was my favorite part, it really set the moment and got us all hype for the dance,” Fleming said.

After waiting four years to become an emcee, senior Katie Solodar celebrates her time to announce during her last homecoming pep rally. Solodar’s job was to make sure everyone stayed spirited while the pep rally ran on schedule.. “I’d always wanted to be more involved and a part of it [the pep rally]. It made me happy knowing that I would impact the day and everyone's experience in a positive way,” Solodar said.

Before the pep assembly, seniors Matt Loaney and Tywan Simms do a shoulder bump to hype each other up for the senior boys dance. Loaney was nervous while waiting to perform in front of the school, but he was glad he decided to do the dance. “I have been looking forward to performing this dance ever since I saw my older brother have so much fun with it,” Loaney said.

Testing the lighting and shutter speed of her new flash, senior Caroline Judd captures senior Lydia Roseman mid-air hours before the pep rally. Having taken many photos together, Roseman felt comfortable being Judd’s test subject. “[Caroline and I] do photo shoots outside of school a lot so i’m used to her taking photos of me,” Roseman said. “Homecoming week is my favorite week of the year. I always love pep rallies; they’re just super fun to get excited for and to see everyones camaraderie. It was fun being a senior this year.”

Parting the curtain separating the senior lounge from the senior hallway, senior Nolan Barbre walks the red carpet the morning of Thursday, Sept.12. In honor of the senior class theme for Homecoming week, West Coast Glam, Barbre dressed up as singer/songwriter Elton John. “This has been the best spirit week I’ve seen in all four years, just because of the participation. I see a lot more people participating, everyone’s doing it rather than just the upperclassmen. Glam Day has been my favorite day so far because I got to dress up as Elton John.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – Sept. 9

Lydia Roseman, News and Sports Editor
September 13, 2019
Fresh off their first performance at Red and Blue Night, freshman Kelsea Wilson hugs her sister, senior Kristin Wilson, excited that they completed their first routine together. Both tried out for poms and were excited to make varsity, it being the only year they will both be on the team. “My favorite part is the games, getting ready with her beforehand and having our parents get to watch us both perform,” Kristin said.

[Photo] Senior Kristin Wilson and freshman Kelsea Wilson take advantage of the chance to dance as teammates

Susie Seidel, Convergence Media Editor
September 11, 2019
Worn at Powderpuff, football games, spirit days and other school events, senior jerseys are a long standing tradition.

[Photo] The class of 2020 breaks traditions with new senior jerseys

Lydia Roseman, News and Sports Editor
September 3, 2019
Varsity cheerleaders watch the game from the sidelines.

[Photo] Red & Blue Night spirit

Nayeon Ryu, Video Editor
August 30, 2019
Laughing as they embrace, senior Aaliyah Weston and freshman Nina Simpson play Balloon Pop at Freshman Orientation Aug. 12. Each August, Link Crew organizes Freshman Orientation to help freshmen acclimate to high school. "Getting to meet so many new people and hang out with them was probably the best part," Simpson said. "We were able to go run around and play games but also get to know the school."

[Photo] Photo of the week – Aug. 12

Emma Caplinger, Arts and Entertainment Editor
August 16, 2019
Looking out over the pool, JV coach Brian Welch and alumni Mitch Griffin celebrate a goal at the State water polo championship against St. Louis University High, May 11. The varsity team walked home with second place. “The game was so tight and every possession was heavily contested,” Welch said. “Every goal felt like a breath of air after being underwater in between goals.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – May 13

Emma Caplinger, Podcast Artist
May 17, 2019
Performing Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” at Singer’s Choice May 7, senior Bella Meara smiles as she sings into the microphone. The performance Tuesday night was Meara’s final performance as a high school student. “Every day choir helps me sound so much better and wakes me up if I’m having a slow morning,” Meara said. “Performing is a skill everyone should have because it’s such a good way to express your thoughts and emotions. Everyone should try it at least once.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – May 6

Emma Caplinger, Podcast Artist
May 10, 2019
Beginning his victory lap around the gym, 2019 Teacher of the Year awardee Emanuel Young pumps his fists to energize the crowd at the Spring Pep Rally, March 29. This is Young’s fourth year teaching business at West High.. “I was in a state of disbelief,” Young said. “My heart was racing; it was one of those things you felt like you should have known but didn’t.”

[Photo] Teacher of the Year takes on new challenges after 10 years in the classroom

Drew Boone and Joey Grove
May 9, 2019
Working on his novella before the approaching publishing date, senior Hayden Riehl hopes to grow both his understanding of the world around him and the world’s understanding of him. “I find writing for storytelling to be incredibly therapeutic, just from some of the stories that people have written in class that I've [seen],” Riehl said. “It was them literally working through a trauma that they've had in the past or something that they're trying to get their own heads wrapped around. Stories can do that. They can help you navigate a sea of your own thoughts.”

[Photo] From students to published authors: Creative Writing 2 will host E-book release launch party at the Wolf Cafe

Brinda Ambal, Staff Writer
April 30, 2019
Dribbling down the field, senior Bella Hatzigeorgiou plays against Fort Zumwalt North April 22. The team won 6-1 and solidified their ranking for districts, achieving a long-term goal. “We have been focusing really hard on getting a good seed for districts, and this game was really important to make sure that we got where we wanted to be in the rankings,” Hatzigeorgiou said. “It’s my last season, and I really want us to do well. It’s been so rewarding as a senior to see everyone on the team playing for each other and working to make the team great.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – April 22

Emma Caplinger, Podcast Artist
April 23, 2019
Sitting in front of the Hindu Temple of Saint Louis, freshman Brinda Ambal dons traditional attire. Ambal has been a member of her temple's Youth Group since 2016. “In St. Louis I can make [Hinduism] my own. The small things aren't that important, it's about how you live your life and follow the religion as a whole,” Ambal said. “A lot of our Holy Texts have stories about courage and trusting yourself so that you are best able to serve others.”

[Photo] Freshman Brinda Ambal models her religion with integrity

Bella Hatzigeorgiou, Convergent Media Writer
January 23, 2019
Inside the English Concepts Center, teaching assistant Rose Rouner works on her laptop. Rouner spends most of her mornings answering emails for parents of students in the Eighth Grade Acceleration program. "A lot of it is getting information to the parents or just answering questions,” Rouner said. “Some of it has to do with communication between teachers and parents, like about registration for the following year or having an information meeting coming up."

[Photo] Eighth grade acceleration: helpful or stressful?

Fatema Rehmani, Staff Writer
April 12, 2019
womens march

[Photo] Students attend Women’s March 2019

Sabrina Bohn, Deputy Managing EiC
February 28, 2019
Decked out in Longhorn Cheer gear with pom-poms in hand, senior Jackson Barnhart perfects a toe touch. Barnhart was chosen as one of the judges' top five competitors. "[I was] very surprised because I wasn't trying to win. I was doing [Mr. Longhorn] to just have a good time with my bros and embarrass myself for charity," Barnhart said.

[Photo] Senior boys compete in 2019 Mr. Longhorn

Nayeon Ryu and Irene Yannakakis
March 1, 2019
Walking across the Main Gym on Wednesday, senior Sophia Ferretti is accompanied by her parents, Pete and Tonya Ferretti during the senior Poms ceremony. As the dancers walked, history teacher Zaven Nalbandian announced the dancers achievements throughout their high school career. “It was a very bittersweet night,” Ferretti said. “I was really happy to have made it this far and I am proud of everything that I have accomplished. I definitely had to fight back my tears when the reality of not being on the team anymore started sinking in.”

Photo of the week – Feb. 18

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
February 22, 2019
Bringing down bags of donated clothing for the Quill & Scroll Clothing Drive, senior Olivia Riemer tosses them in front of the main entrance kiosk. The counselor and yearbook adviser from St. Clair High School came to pick up the donations to replenish their community closet. “When they came to pick up the clothes, it was overwhelming to see how appreciative they were of all of the donations,” Riemer said. “We got a lot more donations than what we were anticipating, so it took a while to load all the bags into their truck.”

Photo of the week – Feb. 4

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
February 8, 2019
Preparing for the ice rink, senior Kristen Priest holds her ice skates before her practice on Wednesday. Priest is grateful for the variety of her schedule with the addition of Ice skating. “I think it's really cool to end the day doing something fun,” Priest said. “I am very glad to be back and moving again.”

[Photo] Senior Kristin Priest finds alternative P.E. courses

Jacob Stanton and Justin Cupps
March 1, 2019
Pumping his fist in the air, senior Harry Skordos cheers his teammates on during the senior vs faculty basketball game. The event benefited the Friends of Kids with Cancer organization, and children who are diagnosed were asked to attend the game and participate by playing games during halftime. “My favorite part of the event was helping the kids during halftime. It is always so rewarding to be with people like that because it makes you appreciate the small things in life,” Skordos said.

[Photo] Photo of the week – Jan. 28

Bella Hatzigeorgiou, Convergent Media Writer
February 1, 2019
Sharing his Pakistani culture through the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange & Study (YES) program, sophomore Muzamil Umar wears a shalwar kameez and a khapol to school. Umar has enjoyed sharing his culture through clothes and presentations to his classes. "When people think of Pakistan, the common thought is terror or terrorists. I don’t want people to think that is what Pakistan is all about. We don’t want people to be afraid of our country,” Umar said. “I am so grateful to change the misconception of American people because many people had wrong thoughts about the people in Pakistan."

[Photo] Foreign exchange student Muzamil Umar hopes to change perceptions of Pakistan

February 14, 2019
Pathfinder editors sit in the journalism classroom before school recapping that week.

[Photo] Censored: the Pathfinder and student press laws

Dani Fischer, Managing Editor-in-Chief
January 30, 2019
Sitting criss-crossed in front of her concentration, senior Allani Gordon showcases her work at the Parkway West District Art Show on Thursday, Jan. 24. Throughout the semester, AP art students focus on one theme, or concentration, to guide their projects. “I chose decay and wanted to depict beauty within decomposition with a feminine touch,” Gordon said.

Photo of the week – Jan. 21

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
January 25, 2019
1:38 a.m. Sitting upright in her bed on a Wednesday morning, junior Caroline Judd lies awake due to cars passing by on Clayton Rd. As Judd gets settled into her new house, loud street noises frequently make their way into her room. “Often times I can hear people listening to the radio in their car on the streets. I always try to figure out which song it is,” Judd said.

[Photo] 24 hours across West High

Pathfinder Staff
February 4, 2019
In character, sophomore Reese Berry informs classmates in Kristen Collins’ fifth hour AP World class about Ivan the Terrible. On Thursday students participated in a speed dating activity to learn about historical figures highlighted in the course. “I made a love connection with Suleiman. We were going to take over the world because we were both terrible people, but had a lot of power,” Berry said.

Photo of the week – Jan. 7

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
January 14, 2019
Senior Shahzan Mian holds a strip of potassium over a bunsen burner. Mian has pursued accelerated math and science courses in order to follow a career in medicine. "I’ve worked so hard in high school and I’ve had the stress of the ACT and all of the standardized tests. If I can get the solid guarantee of getting into medical school, which is a very, very difficult thing to do, statistically, I won’t have to stress as much," Mian said.

[Photo] From purposely tanking a placement exam to applying to medical programs

January 10, 2019
An assortment of books cradled in her arms, junior Meela Abby arranges belongings in her locker. Abby was enrolled in Parkway from kindergarten, hoping to study psychology upon graduating high school. “My sister went to school here and she told me that as soon as I come here, I need to start working. With my schedule you can’t procrastinate or things go bad,” Abby said. “If you want your education, you have to work hard. It doesn’t come easy.”

[Photo] “I have to sacrifice”: junior Meela Abby’s daily struggle for education

December 17, 2018
Singing “The First Noel,” senior Malik Penton harmonizes with Concert Choir at the Winter Concert Dec. 11. Students from grades seven through 12 performed at the 50th anniversary of the Winter Concert. “Being in Concert Choir, after eight years of choir, is one of the most special experiences of life. Wherever I go, I’ll always have the memories with my friends to hold onto. When I transferred junior year to Marquette and later Saint Charles West High School, I made sure choir was on my schedule because music is something I can’t live without,” Penton said.

Photo of the week – Dec. 10

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
December 15, 2018
During theater mentor class, senior Miqueyla Lopez hugs senior Kathryn Kerckhoff. Lopez has participated in PE Mentor classes and cooking mentor classes, but this is her first time in the theater class. "I learned how to work with them in a different setting because in here, we worked on social skills a lot, unlike the other mentor classes where we worked on things like activeness and motor skills. It takes so much patience, but I loved spending quality time with them individually," Lopez said.

[Photo] Student mentors help students with special needs host a winter play

December 13, 2018
Strumming with his left hand on the neck of the guitar, junior Jon Ma plays with his band Stir Fry at the Flint, Mich. benefit concert Dec. 6. Five local bands performed at the concert and raised more than $1,400 towards the Flint Water Fund. “I wasn’t that nervous because I realized there weren’t any stakes in this, no winner or loser, just some people coming together to make music for a good cause,” Ma said.

Photo of the week – Dec. 3

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
December 7, 2018
Sophomores Irene Yannakakis and Anna Pavlisin lay in the hallway deciding what Pop Tart flavor to try next.

[Photo] Pop Tart Taste Test

Irene Yannakakis and Anna Pavlisin
December 14, 2018
A Parkway school bus waits outside the building's front entrance.

[Photo] Zip code and skin color: the power in the stories that nobody tells

Tyler Kinzy, Sports Editor
December 7, 2018
Cutting fabric with scissors in hand, junior Meela Abbey decorates her ugly Christmas sweater during a Fashion Club meeting after school on Nov. 29. Members of the club gathered in Family and Consumer Science teacher Renee Broemmelsick’s room to make their own holiday sweaters. “Since they were supposed to be ugly, I had to make mine ugly, but like a cute ugly, it had to have some potential,” Abbey said.

Photo of the week – Nov. 26

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
December 2, 2018
Sorting through canned goods Nov. 19, freshman Brinda Ambal participates in the West County Interfaith Alliance Thanksgiving drive. Members from the Hindu, Islamic and Jewish temples came together alongside Catholic and Christian church members to better understand each other's faith and provide canned food for the Parkway Food Pantry. “In a world where there is so much religious conflict, it is really great to see people come together,” Ambal said.

Photo of the week – Nov. 19

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
November 20, 2018
Gripping the electric razor, senior Sophie Pellegrino shaves coach Charles Cutelli’s head in his classroom after school on Thursday. Cutelli promised the girls cross country team that they could shave his head if they placed second in state. “I've always known him as the guy who writes my workouts and tells me what to do, but then I shaved his hair off his head,” Pellegrino said.

Photo of the week – Nov. 5

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
November 9, 2018
Soaring through the air, sophomore Sarenna Wood takes on the Parkway North ropes course, part of the Adventure Pursuit field trip Oct. 29. The students jumped off tall platforms and attempted to grab trapeze bars. “It was terrifying actually, getting on top of it was the hardest part, it was all adrenaline and you didn't feel anything else,” Wood said.

Photo of the week – Oct. 29

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
November 2, 2018
Describing the distinctive characteristics of the neighborhood, senior Nell Jaskowiak strolls through the produce stands at Soulard Market Oct. 25. History of St. Louis students traveled to downtown St. Louis and visited the Old Courthouse, Arch Grounds, Grand Avenue, Lafayette Square and the Downtown Architecture. “My favorite thing that I’ve learned about so far in the class is the diverse cultural backgrounds of all the different neighborhoods in St. Louis, learning about everything from Italian immigrants to the French settlers to the Czechs,” Jaskowiak said.

Photo of the week – Oct. 22

Caroline Judd
October 26, 2018
Freshman Giselle Bauer poses with a model of the human brain. Bauer has a brain tumor that causes seizures and has undergone four surgeries to minimize the tumor's size and effects. "Even though some things are harder, I know I can function normally," Bauer said. "I try to forget my tumor’s there and know that I’m just the same as everyone else."

[Photo] Freshman Giselle Bauer overcomes brain tumor

Maddie Brueggenjohann, Convergent Media Writer
October 26, 2018
Holding up a soccer ball, junior Jansen Miller dons his soccer jersey in front of a goal. Jansen has played soccer with the St. Louis Football Club Academy for three years. “The advantage is that [STLFC] are good role models, who have helped me not just in soccer, but in life as a professional because that's their job. That's their life and that's what I want to do,” Miller said. “Seeing them and what they do every single day, that's my goal.”

[Photo] Junior Jansen Miller scores a spot practicing with the St. Louis Football Club Academy

Reagin Ward, Convergent Media Writer
October 12, 2018
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Squatting in the Peace Garden Wed., Oct. 17, senior Brianna Vietmeier and senior Women of West Officer Jessica Goedeke tie-dye shirts. In an effort to create a sense of community, 30 members met at 7 a.m. to talk, tie-dye and bond. “We wanted girls to feel supported and comfortable coming to the club and listening in on their experiences,” Goedeke said.

Photo of the week – Oct. 15

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
October 20, 2018
Adjusting his guitar pedals, Hippo Campus lead singer and guitarist Jake Luppen prepares to play songs from the bands' album "Bambi."

[Photo] Hippo Campus and The Districts bring an electric performance to The Pageant

Sabrina Bohn, Deputy Managing EiC
October 22, 2018
Rallying together during a home game Oct. 8, senior Alexa Abney and sophomore Emma Breidecker shoulder bump at the start of the varsity softball game against Ladue High School. Throughout the season, the varsity team mentally prepared in between innings by hyping up their fellow teammates. “Usually before every inning the infielders ran around and high fived each other before the batter came out,” Abney said. “Us outfielders always got together and shoulder bumped or chest bumped.”

Photo of the week – Oct. 8

Caroline Judd, Social Media Manager
October 12, 2018
Holding up a Billy Graham devotional book, senior Will Creemens proudly displays his faith. Each day, he reads the devotional and accompanying verses for that day. "There's a lot in [the book] about accepting the people around you which we don't always do," Creemens said. "We're in such a divided world, so it's refreshing to have a devotional saying what God wants us to do and a verse that explains it too."

[Photo] Senior Will Cremeens finds himself through Jesus Christ

October 16, 2018
Holding up a Billy Graham devotional book, senior Will Creemens proudly displays his faith. Each day, he reads the devotional and accompanying verses for that day. "There's a lot in [the book] about accepting the people around you which we don't always do," Creemens said. "We're in such a divided world, so it's refreshing to have a devotional saying what God wants us to do and a verse that explains it too."

[Photo] Senior Will Cremeens finds himself through Jesus Christ

Bella Hatzigeorgiou, Convergent Media Writer
October 16, 2018
Mahaffey poses with a shirt from ST∆Y. She plans to stay an ambassador for the company in order to continue to impact people's lives. "My main reason for being a part of ST∆Y is to spread kindness and awareness of suicide prevention," Mahaffey said, "There are so many people just tearing each other down. I just wanted to be a part of the crowd that fights for kindness."

[Photo] Spreading the message to ST∆Y

October 11, 2018
A student looks at his planner, which indicates that there is no school on Columbus Day. Despite the fact that Columbus brought mostly harm to Indigenous people, many schools still get off school to celebrate his legacy.

[Photo] The Wendigo in the room: our Columbus Day carnage

Gokul Venkatachalam
October 8, 2018
At the end of the final practice before the annual Powder Puff game, junior and head coach Walker Piles gives a pep talk to his team. The players and coaches attended a meeting and two practices to prepare for the game, which the seniors ended up winning 21-7. "To motivate my team, my goal was to make [them] understand it was not about individuals. It was team first," Piles said. "The seniors had athletes, but we had a team, and we came out and fought."

[Photo] Photo of the week – Sept. 24

Sabrina Bohn and Carly Anderson
September 30, 2018
Senior Maria Licavoli shows classmates her hamster Chili while preventing him from escaping her grasp. Licavoli took Zoology to further her learning for her hopeful future profession of a veterinarian. “I want to be a veterinarian when Im older because I love animals and Zoology really is a great intro because your learning about animals. I just really love animals,” Licavoli said.

[Photo] Meet the pets in Zoology

Irene Yannakakis, Staff Writer
October 9, 2018
Sitting in Zoology, senior Kristin Priest holds her Crested Gecko during a lesson. Zoology students brought their pets to class in order to learn more about the different species. “It’s so fun and so therapeutic because [during] the whole class period while you're taking notes you can have your animal out on your desk and play with it,” Priest said. “It's relaxing because you get to take notes and pet a guinea pig at the same time.”

Photo of the Week – Sept. 10

Caroline Judd and Carly Anderson
September 14, 2018
Helping junior Ronik Bhaskar with an assignment, English teacher Leslie Lindsey checks Bhaskar's work on rhetorical analysis. Bhaskar finds Lindsey attentive to her students needs. "I think as a teacher, she is very structured and organized which is good," Bhaskar said. "It helps makes sure everyone knows what's going on, what's going to happen and what they need to be prepared for. After setting up the kind of system, she still works hard to makes sure every student understands."

[Photo] Getting to know English teacher Leslie Lindsey

Ridwan Oyebamiji, Staff Writer
September 11, 2018
Taking a break from recording, junior Andrew Jolly and senior Ali Yumuk laugh while working on their debut album “Up To No Good Volume 1.” The album is made up of eight original rap songs available on SoundCloud and Spotify. “Being together in a studio and recording together is a lot better than recording on your own in your own studio and then sending it to them,” Jolly said. “It gives you a much greater connection because you’re both part of the atmosphere of the album, and you’re a part of all the songs, even if you don’t have a part in them. Being in the studio with people is a such a tight knit feeling.”

[Photo] Junior Andrew Jolly and senior Ali Yumuk release debut rap album

Lydia Roseman, News Editor
October 8, 2018
Preparing for the scrimmage to begin, junior middle linebacker Luke Ward helps junior defensive lineman Tommy Mohan practice his defensive skills during Red and Blue Night. The varsity team started off their season with the jamboree, where they competed against Fort Zumwalt, St. Charles and Westminster. “The scrimmages are always fun. The first scrimmage felt rough, and like we were too slow, but by the third, I think the rust and butterflies were knocked off, and the team looked good,” Ward said. “Sportsmanship was high, and we got out with no significant injuries. Overall, it was a great way to kickoff the season.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – Aug. 13

Sabrina Bohn and Carly Anderson
August 19, 2018
Handing a customer an iced coffee, junior Madison Terry works as a Blue Brew barista. Marketing II students helped create the coffee shop and have raised more than $300 for West Chest. “Next year we’re going to change a little bit of the set-up, we’re going to add more coffee, make things a little more complicated,” Terry said. “The job is really fast paced but it’s fun [because] you get to see everybody and work with all the other [Marketing II] students.”

[Photo] Photo of the week – May 1

Carly Anderson and Sabrina Bohn
May 4, 2018
Sophomore Tywann Simms prepares to perform at a school pep assembly. Prior to Virginia Beach, Rho Sigma Delta won local competitions and performed at events like the pep assembly to uproarious crowds. “I feel like a lot of people look forward to seeing step because its an amazing thing and a lot of people are disappointed if we don’t perform,” freshmen Thalia Banks said.

[Photo] Rho Sigma Delta Wins National Championship

Gabe Davis, Staff Writer
April 7, 2018
In the middle of a backswing, senior Andrew Yazdi pretends to hit freshman Ethan Coy. Yazdi came up with the idea last minute while waiting to go out on the gym floor. “I think our golf team will be good. Our eight players on varsity are all strong,” Yazdi said. “I’ll make the most of each time I’m out on the course.”

[Photo] Spring Pep Rally Photo Gallery

Nayeon Ryu, Staff Writer
March 23, 2018
Freshmen Jackson Gorman and Thomas Anderson play HQ together during their study hall for the 2 p.m. game. “I really like to play the game but I haven’t won any money yet,” Thomas Anderson said. “It is really addicting to play, which makes it hard to not play during study hall.”

[Photo] HQ Trivia catches the attention of students and faculty

Anna Pavlisin, Staff Writer
February 2, 2018
Seniors Brett Schade, Jackson Glisson, Austin Balestra, James Banks, Tyler Ramatowski, Drew Benoski and junior Will Patton pose for a photo. The boys gathered for a photoshoot, and this is currently the main picture on the website. "I mean it’s not really anything crazy you know just a local business just starting out selling sweatshirts, but once we get our website going and a little more brand recognition I think we could really have potential to expand," Glisson said.

[Photo] Student-run “For the Boys” company catches fire in St. Louis area

Noah Gwin, Staff Writer
January 29, 2018
Senior Salmoi Inje works on homework in the library. “I’m in debate and mock trial so I’m not really a sports person. My interests are very much academic. I want to go into Pediatrics so I’ll probably go through some pre-med track and then figure out my special later,” Inje said.

[Photo] Senior Salomi Inje struggles with FAFSA as a non-U.S. citizen

Carly Anderson, Managing EiC Intern
January 10, 2018
During the home football game against Ladue, the student section, which includes parents, is sparse.

[Photo] Students address inadequate fan sections

Susie Seidel, Staff Writer
December 1, 2017
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Shanna Bailey