The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
The Official Student News Site of Parkway West High

Pathfinder
Senior Natalia Gumpel crowdsurfs above her teammates during the pep rally as the girls’ soccer team is recognized. Gumpel is a two-year member of the girls’ varsity soccer team as an outside back. “[Pep rallies are important] because [they] bring a sense of unity to the school, and I think that’s important so you don’t feel so overwhelmed. High school is a part [of life] where there [are] a lot of things changing, so to feel that sense of community is good. A lot of [my teammates] are close friends, and we’ve grown closer through soccer,” Gumpel said.

Spring fever

Rishi Pidikiti and Sage Kelly • April 15, 2026

On April 3, West High held its annual spring pep rally. Complete with sports entrances, the Parkway District Step Team, jazz choir, the Parkway West Winter Guard, Finish the Lyric, cheer performances,...

Freshman Ella Early works to publish and display her artwork and writing, which she has practiced for years. Early learned techniques from her grandmother’s art and found her talent through writing. "I remember my teachers reading my books out loud to the class and being very proud of them. I said, ‘look, guys, I wrote a book,’” Early said.

Inside her story

Esta Kamau, Features/Humans of West Editor • March 13, 2023

When freshman Ella Early was in elementary school, she was often caught doodling and writing on her class notes; now, her teachers praise her for her drawings and stories. Early’s passion for drawing...