The Knight Times / April 2026 Issue 9

THE KNIGHT TIMES

Culture Fest builds community at Episcopal

Students share culture through food and entertainment

BRYAN ZHAN Staff Writer

The annual Dude Be Nice Week took place April 20–24, serving as an important reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on those around us. This special week encouraged our school community to slow down, be intentional, and choose kindness in everyday interactions. It was a time to build stronger connections and create a positive and supportive environment.

To celebrate, Student Council planned a variety of engaging and meaningful activities designed to bring students together and spread positivity. The week began Monday with the sale of Henley t-shirts, giving students the opportunity to promote a unified message of kindness across campus.

On Tuesday, STUCO partnered with the Mental Health Club to host a card-writing activity, where students created thoughtful, encouraging notes for their friends, classmates, and teachers. Wednesday coincided with Earth Day, adding another layer of purpose to the week. In celebration, STUCO provided DIY succulent planting stations, allowing students to pot their own plants and take part in a hands-on, ecofriendly activity. Popsicles and ice cream were also available.

On Thursday, the school hosted its biannual Coffee House event, where students were invited to perform and showcase their talents in a supportive environment. The week concluded on Friday with the distribution of balloons, which students gave to friends as a simple but meaningful gesture of kindness.

Throughout the week, students who participated in activities were entered into a raffle for a special prize, rewarding those who actively helped spread positivity.

Houston’s Art Car Parade

Students design 1968 Chevy C-10 pickup

PAGE 4

Artemis II launches

NASA sends astronauts around the moon PAGE 5

“EHS Culture Fest was held on Friday, April 12, 2026, by the EHS Diversity in Action (DIA) organization, where students came together to celebrate diversity within the Episcopal High School community. The event showcased a wide range of cultures through food, poster boards, and entertainment. It highlighted the importance of inclusivity and learning about new cultures.”

EHS debuts academic championships for SPC

CAROLINE JOHNSON Staff Writer

For the first time in SPC history, students showcased their academic talent with the same spotlight previously reserved for athletics. This spring, EHS started and hosted the first annual SPC Academic Championship.

Competing in 16 different events - from practical mathematics like accounting and number sense to areas like social studies, spelling, and literary criticism - students from schools including Houston Christian and Awty travelled to the Episcopal campus on April 24-25. Each school was allowed to enter up to six students per event.

EHS Academic Team coach Mr. Scotty Johnson modeled the competition after the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Academic program, an academic competition available to every public school in Texas. Following the UIL guidelines and rules, the SPC Academic Championship used the same tests used by over 1400 public high schools. This allowed the SPC competitors an idea of how they rank against other schools.

“We are looking to have a fun academic opportunity since SPC schools don’t have UIL involvement. I just want to have a positive academic experience for the kids,” said Mr. Johnson.

Promising competitors from EHS included senior Taylor Jones in computer science, junior Piper Massie for number

sense, and junior Julia Levan in accounting. Episcopal’s teams have been studying their subjects since August, where they competed in their first of many virtual Academic Competitions leading up to the SPC Championships.

In addition to the individual academic events, a Quiz Bowl tournament took place during the SPC Championships. Each school could enter two teams - one varsity

team and one JV team. The organization Texas Challengers partnered with EHS to host the Quiz Bowl portion of the competition, allowing the contest to be completely free for all participating schools.

As the founding school for the SPC Academic Championship, EHS continues to pave a new path for students, one that proves that academic competitions deserve the same spotlight as athletics.

Slice of π

2026.

OLIVIA ANAIPAKOS Guest Writer

Hello, EHS! I am Olivia Anaipakos, the Math Club Historian. We hope that all your progress has been adding up and that you’ll finish the fourth quarter strong! This April has been another busy math month. Several students submitted entries to the Strogatz Mathematics Competition, an annual art competition where students submit performances or traditional artwork to share and celebrate their love for math, and to prove that you can find math anywhere, even when you least expect it! These competitions are a great way to explore math beyond the classroom and challenge yourself in new ways. We are currently waiting on the results of this competition…if this sounds like something you would enjoy, consider joining Math Club for the opportunity to compete next year!

We held our final Math Club meeting on April 21, concluding with elections for next year’s Math Club officers. Thank you to all the candidates! The Math Club and Mu Alpha Theta officers will be announced next month in our final Slice of Pi for this academic year.

As you are making your summer plans, consider enrolling in one of our Summer Math Programs in July! Tell your friends as the classes are open to non-EHS students, too. Registration is open until classes fill. Space is limited! The summer 2026 programs are:

• Middle School Problem Solving (July 13-24, 9-11:30 a.m. or 1-3:30 p.m.)

Two-week program for middle school students who will be entering grades 6-8 in the fall of 2026

• Algebra I Topics (July 13-24, 9-11:30 a.m. or 1-3:30 p.m.)

Two-week program for students entering Algebra I in the fall of 2026

• Geometry Topics (July 13-24, 9-11:30 a.m. or 1-3:30 p.m.)

Two-week program for students who have completed Algebra I and are entering Geometry in the fall of 2026

• Algebra II Topics (July 13-24, 1-3:30 p.m.)

Two-week program for students who have completed Algebra I and are entering Algebra II in the fall of 2026

• Precalculus Topics (July 13-24, 9-11:30 a.m.)

Two-week program for students who have completed Geometry and Algebra II and are entering Precalculus in the fall of

• Calculus Topics for Advanced Placement Calculus (July 6-24, 9 a.m.-noon, office hours 8-9 a.m.)

Three-week program for high school students who have completed Precalculus and are entering Calculus in the fall of 2026.

The award-winning MASTER TEACHERS are:

• Mr. Pei How Chin – Bellaire High School

• Mr. Leland Dix – Annunciation Orthodox School

• Dr. Gail Hamilton – St. Thomas More Parish School

• Dr. Joanna Papakonstantinou – Episcopal High School & Associate Director of EHS Summer Math Programs

• Dr. Richard Parr – The Kinkaid School

• Dr. Anne Papakonstantinou – Former Houston ISD & Rice University

You can register on the EHS website under Summer Math Programs at EHS or scan the QR code below.

Audience leaves with lasting impressions after one act plays

HIMALI WICKRAMASINGHE Staff Writer

On April 24, 2025, junior Campbell Katz and seniors Luke Smith and Henry Harkins closed out a season of shows with their one-act plays: The Zoo Story, Check Please, and The Dumb Waiter

The Zoo Story, directed by Harkins, is an interesting encounter between a middle-class publishing executive named Peter, portrayed by Tommy Perez-Lodiero, and a lonely man named Jerry, who desperately wants a connection, portrayed by Will Saindon. The two men meet on a Central Park bench and strike up a conversation, exploring themes such as alienation and class division.

Check Please, directed by Katz, follows protagonists Guy, portrayed by Kayden Edwards and Girl, portrayed by MP Stukenberg, as they go on bizarre blind dates and explore the craziness of the dating world. The play uses hyperbolic

Students take part in the shaping of community at Culture Fest

ANYA PANT Co-Editor in Chief

It’s that time of year again! Every year, Diversity in Action hosts their biggest event, Culture Fest, on campus in April. This year, Culture Fest happened during A and B lunches of Friday, April 10.

For those who have never experienced Culture Fest or haven’t attended in previous years, it is a celebration and recognition of the various groups of students we have on campus. Culture Fest broke records this year, with over 27 different cultures represented.

It was the greatest number of booths to be featured. Culture Fest takes an enormous amount of meticulous planning, which DIA Leadership and Unity Council have been working on since the start of the semester.

On the day of Culture Fest, students picked up their “passports” at a booth and made their way around the tables, collecting a stamp at each table they visited.

Once the students filled every slot in their passport with a stamp, they were collected and entered into a raffle for a prize.

Culture Fest booths take on many forms and offer new and engaging experiences to the student body.

Traditionally, every booth has food from the culture, which students sample, and a tri-fold board that educates visitors. There have also been booths which provide new experiences.

In previous years, the Mexico booth brought in a Mariachi band, the India booth brought in a henna artist, and the China booth brought in dragon dancers. This year, a new addition was made to Culture Fest, a graffiti wall.

DIA put up a blank wall which students were able to “graffiti” with markers and write something about their experience at Culture Fest or just the school in general. The wall became a photo op and a critical centerpiece to the Culture Fest experience.

This tradition is a beautiful way to build community not just on campus but throughout the entire Episcopal sphere.

Students brought their parents, teachers brought their children, and everybody came together to celebrate the contributions that all cultures bring to Episcopal High School.

Mrs. Foster reflects fondly on her years of teaching at EHS

LIZ BURKE Social Media Coordinator

After 40 years at Episcopal High School, Mrs. Karen Foster is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, care, and inspiration.

She first came to EHS in 1985 after teaching at St. Mark’s, when a friend introduced her to the school through coaching. What began as part-time work quickly grew into a full-time career.

“I had discovered a passion for teaching,” she said. Even though she had been accepted into physical therapy school, she chose to stay in education, reflecting, “It is a decision that I can say with confidence that I have never doubted.”

For Mrs. Foster, teaching was never just a job. It became “a life calling with purpose.” Over the years, she has created countless memories that reflect the spirit of Episcopal. She recalls the simple joys of school life, like students playing sand volleyball during lunch and after school.

“It was nice to see students getting exercise and visiting with their peers.”

She also remembers unforgettable events, including when “President Bush’s helicopter landed on the football field,” a moment that brought the school together in wonder.

From coaching tennis and basketball to organizing school events, trips, and celebrations like Canine Follies, Mrs. Foster’s career is full of stories that show her love for the students and community. Even as the campus has grown and changed, her hope for the school has remained constant. “I hope that this school continues to be a place where all students feel accepted, loved, and find a sense of belonging,” she said.

Known for her incredible memory, she can even recall which desks students sat in years ago, a small reflection of the care she gives each of her charges.

Looking back on her career, she said simply, “I gave it my all for 40 years.”

More than anything, she hopes that students take away “one memory of the class that was a positive experience,” a lasting reminder of her passion, dedication, and heart.

Behind the scenes details of

comedy and fast-paced satire to explore the theme of vulnerability and a desire for connection and acceptance.

The Dumb Waiter, directed by Smith is the story of two hitmen, Ben, portrayed by Jackson Markworth and Gus, portrayed by Alessandra Hernandez Marmentini, who are waiting for their next assignment in a basement, where they start getting these absurd food orders from a dumb waiter. Ending with a shocking plot twist, this play shows how blind obedience can turn even the closest of friends against each other.

Since March, student directors and actors have been working tirelessly to figure out what things need to be changed, what needs to be kept the same, and how certain parts of the show will be performed and brought to life. The student-directed one acts are a unique EHS Onstage tradition that allows students to be leaders within the Theatre Program by using their imagination to walk in the shoes of the director.

Prom reveal thorough planning

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor in Chief

Prom was held on April 25, at the Bell Tower from 8:00 – 10:30 p.m. The Prom theme this year was The Stars at Knight are Big and Bright and was announced to the Senior Class during a prom reveal community time program.

Preparations for the annual event begin very early. A prom committee of senior parent volunteers work together to select a theme that captures the class and is one that they will enjoy together, celebrating their last dance at EHS.

This year’s theme is very special “because it will bring together nostalgia, celebration, and excitement for the future, all in one Knight,” said Mr. Steve Leisz. Mr. Leisz, along with Mrs. Courtney Lindloff, worked together to help the Prom Com-

mittee execute the dance.

The committee met multiple times over the year and exchanged countless emails. The planning involves visiting venues, signing contracts, planning decorations, arranging activities during the event, selecting a food menu, creating playlists, buying prizes, and hiring security, all while staying within the allocated budget.

When selecting a venue, the committee considers location, size, and pricing, all important factors to ensure the night can be executed within the budget while maximizing the fun to be had.

Another aspect of Prom that is hidden from the student body is the Prom Reveal Video. The Prom Committee brainstorms ideas for the video and pass them to Mr. David Framel. Mr. Framel takes the ideas and writes a script and directs the video, featuring a star-studded cast of faculty.

Spring dance concert showcases student talent and creativity

BENTLEY BEICH Staff Writer

The EHS Dance Program brought energy and creativity to campus with its annual Spring Dance Concert, held Friday, April 10, and Saturday, April 11. Featuring thirteen student-choreographed dances, the concert highlighted the talent and dedication of dancers across all levels of the program.

Each piece in the concert was choreographed by dancers in advanced groups, giving students full creative control. From selecting music and costumes to contributing to who gets placed in their cast, choreographers were able to bring their unique visions to life. Junior Impact dancer Jordan Young, who has been in the program since freshman year, explained that preparation began in January, with months of consistent rehearsals leading up to the performances. She also noted that dancers could participate in multiple pieces, making it a busy but rewarding experience.

The concert also served as a meaning-

ful moment for the Senior Class, marking their final performance in the EHS dance program. A special senior piece to the song “Cruisin’ for a Bruisin’” from Teen Beach Movie closed the show in a bittersweet way, allowing graduating dancers to choreograph and perform together one last time.

This year’s concert also encouraged broader student involvement. Students with little or no prior dance experience were able to audition and be placed in dances, adding diversity and new perspectives to the performances. Junior choreographer Scarlett Schmitt shared, “I am beyond happy to have such a great opportunity; my dancers really brought my vision to life.”

Leading up to the concert, a teaser performance during school gave students a preview of three dances. With strong attendance, supportive crowds, and even a pre-show dinner sponsored by the Dad’s Club, the Spring Dance Concert once again proved to be one of the many highlights of the EHS Performing Arts Department.

Senior dancers deliver energy

MIMI WRIGHT

Opinions Editor

Episcopal’s Spring Dance Concert hit the stage April 10-11, wrapping up months of rehearsals that started all the way back in late January. Seven senior choreographers - Abby Horn, Megan Sloan, Lauren Bohn, Hadley Holmes, Alexa Choi, Myles Patterson, and Katie Wallace - each put together their own pieces with song choices ranging from Beyoncé and Michael Jackson to Jeff Buckley and Adele. The range of music showed how much each choreographer brought their own personality to the stage, and the dancers behind each piece made it all come to life. For Bohn, the process was one of growth and learning to trust herself and the people around her. “I’ve learned that I have more fun when I trust the process and let things turn out naturally,” she said. She made sure to leave room for her dancers to contribute along the way, and the collaboration between her and her cast made the piece something special. Her advice to underclassmen was to get as

much done on weekends as possible since finding time during the school week is harder than it sounds.

Choi wanted her piece set to Adele’s “When We Were Young” to hit the audience with a wave of nostalgia. “I want people to leave remembering how quickly these years pass,” she said.

For Alexa, her dancers were her biggest inspiration, and their energy and connection to one another pushed the piece to a new level. The whole thing felt like a love letter to everything the EHS dance community has meant to her over the years.

Myles Patterson and Daniela Castillo brought the crowd to its feet with “Beautiful Liar,” a piece that had the audience cheering from start to finish. He and Daniela put together something that was as fun to watch as it was to perform. His biggest advice to future choreographers was to pick a song you genuinely love and not be afraid to take charge of a room.

For all seven seniors, this was so much more than just another concert. Dance has shaped their entire high school experience, and this was their moment to go out on top.

Alumni weekend celebrates community and honors leaders

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor-In-Chief

Alumni Weekend took place on April 17-18 at Episcopal High School. On Friday, alumni attended a Stars at Knight Alumni Reception which was hosted in the Crain-Galloway Center for the Arts at 6:00 p.m. All alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, and staff were invited to celebrate and reconnect with their peers. On Saturday, specific class parties were invited for their reunions. Class years 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016 and 2021 were invited to celebrate their milestone and had their reunions at locations around Houston.

At Friday’s reception, Episcopal honored this year’s Alumni Award recipients: “Ms. Sheila” Kelly and Richard Howell (graduating Class of 2001). Ms. Sheila received the Hexagon Distinguished Faculty and Staff Award and Mr. Howell received the Bishops’ Alumni Award.

Both Ms. Sheila and Mr. Howell spoke at the event as well. Ms. Sheila also spoke to the student body during chapel to kick off Alumni Weekend.

Previous recipients of the Bishops’ Alumni Award include Chris Bailey ’04 in 2025, Melissa Cross ‘89 in 2021, and Knox Nunnally ’97 in 2020. The award was not given in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Past recipients of the Hexagon Distinguished Faculty and Staff Award Recipients include David Framel in 2025, Steve Leisz in 2024, and Kim Randolph in 2023. Alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, staff, and parents were asked to help submit nominations for these awards. EHS alumni value every gift given to help fund EHS and the education provided at EHS. Each gift plays a role in the school’s ability to strengthen the four pillar approach EHS deeply values.

Mrs. Colleen Kearns, Director of Alumni Affairs, was excited and “look[ed] forward to celebrating Ms. Sheila, Mr. Howell, and [the] alumni community.”

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

Hidden right along Richmond Avenue near Greenway Plaza, Oishii Sushi is a spot that lives up to the hype. Copy Editor Charlotte Mehnert and I arrived to a packed restaurant and ended up waiting 45 minutes for a table. That wait alone told us it had to be good, and it absolutely was. We started with the Vegetable Tempura, which arrived piping hot and perfectly balanced. The batter was light but crisp, without being overly heavy, allowing the vegetables to stand out. Our favorite was the fried sweet potato, which had the perfect mix of sweetness and crunch. Next, we split two rolls: the Shaggy Dog Maki and the Pink Lady Maki. Both were full of flavor without being too spicy.

The Shaggy Dog roll had a satisfying crunch from the friend shrimp inside and a creamy kick from the spicy mayo drizzled on top. The Pink Lady roll was wrapped in soy paper, making it feet lighter but just as delicious.

The menu offers a wide variety of options, including sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, donburi, and udon, so there’s something for everyone. Despite how busy it was, the service remained efficient and attentive. The atmosphere inside was lively, which made the experience feel even more fun. It’s the kind of place you’d want to come back to with friends, just to try every roll on the menu. Having tried many sushi restaurants around Houston, this is easily one of my favorites - and one hundred percent worth the wait.

Welcome back to Book Nook! Today, I present you with a novel that weaves art, trauma, and love into a beautiful story.

Akemi Dawn Bowman’s award-award winning novel, Starfish, is the story of Kiko Himura, a young, insecure Japanese American artist, who comes from a broken home.

Kiko longs to attend Prism Art School in New York City to escape her toxic household and follow her dreams of becoming an artist. However, a rejection letter from Prism, the uncle that caused her mental trauma moving in, and reuniting with an old friend prompt Kiko to challenge her anxiety and insecurity and go to California to look at some art schools there. Kiko’s trip to California is a pivotal moment in both the story and Kiko’s character development.

While in California, Kiko meets a man named Hiroshi, who helps her appreciate her Japanese heritage and gives her the confidence to reapply to Prism. With her newfound confidence and appreciation for her culture, Kiko finally has the courage to go back and stand up to her mother. Many young people these days are afraid of taking risks or doing the unknown out of fear that it could go wrong.

ALL THINGZ fashion

DARIA MASSEY Production Editor

John Galliano is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant fashion designers of the 21st century. His memorable work with his own label, John Galliano, as well as Givenchy, Dior, and Maison Margiela, has left a lasting impression on the fashion industry, particularly through his theatrically orchestrated runway presentations. After stepping away from Maison Margiela and taking a two-year break, admirers eagerly anticipated his return to the scene. Given Galliano’s skill and influence, many assumed he would seamlessly transition into a leading role at another prestigious fashion house. Instead, Galliano surprised the industry by taking on the role of “creative partner” at Zara rather than joining legacy houses like Chanel or Valentino.

This unexpected shift marks a pivotal time in fashion history, blurring the boundaries between fast fashion and luxury design. Galliano signed a two-year contract with Zara in March and will work closely with Zara archives. His goal is to revive past collections by breaking down existing pieces and reworking them into a

new line. His collection is scheduled to launch in September 2026. This collaboration raises compelling questions about the future of the industry. Galliano’s past work demonstrated his ability to completely reimagine a brand’s identity, and his influence could transform how Zara is perceived. It may even signal a shift toward a future in which fast fashion labels begin to rival traditional luxury houses in both creativity and cultural relevance.

MIMI WRIGHT Opinions Editor

Every April, Houston does something no other city in the world does quite like it. Over 300,000 people line the streets of downtown to watch more than 250 vehicles, decorated beyond recognition, roll through the city in what has become one of the most beloved free events in Houston’s history. The 39th annual Houston Art Car Parade took place April 11, and it did not disappoint.

The beautiful thing about this story is how it shows that taking risks can help you learn more about yourself and the world and can even show you a new way of thinking about things. With its compelling storyline and powerful message, this is totally a book worth checking out, especially for teens.

So, what exactly is an art car? By definition, it is any vehicle whose owner has modified its appearance to suit his or her aesthetic, personality, or creative inspiration. In practice, that means anything goes. Painted, welded, sculpted, beaded, or covered in fake fruit, the only rule is that it has to roll. Entries came from 23

states as well as Canada and Mexico, ranging from everyday Houstonians with a wild idea to nationally recognized artists who have been building their cars for years.

The parade itself has been a Houston tradition since 1988, when the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art launched it with just 40 cars and a crowd of 2,000 people. Nearly four decades later, it has grown into the largest art car celebration in the world.

What makes it special is not just the spectacle but the spirit behind it. The Orange Show’s mission has always been that art belongs to everyone, and the parade proves that every year. There is nothing else in Houston quite like watching a firebreathing, glitter-covered station wagon cruise past City Hall while thousands of people cheer it on.

La La Land x Lululemon debuts in Highland Village

After weeks of long lines, including opening day crowds that began as early as 5 a.m., the new La La Land x Lululemon in Highland Village has quickly become one of Houston’s most talked-about spots.

This is not a typical coffee shop. The café blends La La Land’s signature bright yellow aesthetic with Lululemon’s clean, athletic style, creating an environment that feels both upbeat and modern. Customers can order a drink while browsing workout apparel, turning a simple coffee run into more of a lifestyle experience. The construction of the space has been highly anticipated for many years, and the top floors of this three-story building haven’t even been filled.

The menu offers a variety of options, including lattes, matcha, refreshers, and light food like avocado toast. Popular

drinks such as the banana bread latte and strawberry fields matcha have quickly gained attention for their flavor and presentation. Overall, the drinks are wellcrafted and live up to the hype surrounding the opening.

What sets La La Land apart is its focus on positivity. The brand’s mission to “normalize kindness” is visible throughout the space, with encouraging messages displayed around the café. Employees even add a personal touch, sometimes telling customers “I love you” as they hand off drinks. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but it sure is positive. The company also hires and mentors foster youth aging out of the system, giving the café a meaningful purpose beyond just coffee.

La La Land is not a niche concept; its combination of strong branding, quality drinks, and a positive message makes it stand out.

NASA’s Artemis II mission launches off Florida coast

NASA made history this April, sending Artemis II and its crew on a daring mission to fly around the moon. This tenday expedition marks the closest humans have been to the moon since Apollo 17 in 1972. Since then, no humans have traveled beyond low Earth orbit, even though robotic missions have continued.

Artemis I took place in 2022 and was an empty aircraft. Its purpose was to ensure that the trip would be safe for humans. Sure enough, the trip was successful and allowed for Artemis II. Aboard the spaceship were four astronauts: Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen. To-

gether, the crew paved the way for future expeditions, confirming that everything is properly working before landing people on the moon again.

The four astronauts launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center located in Florida on April 1 at 6:35 pm. They rode the Space Launch System (SLS), traveling inside the Orion spacecraft. After orbiting Earth for one day, the Orion left Earth orbit and began its trek toward the moon. The Orion then flew around and behind the moon once, where the team conducted observations and took photos. The Orion then reentered Earth’s atmosphere and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, concluding the mission.

Artemis III is expected to launch in 2027 and will take the next critical steps to land humans on the moon again.

ANYA PANT Co-Editor-in-Chief

April marks the beginning of Arab American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the rich history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans across the United States. While it does not coincide this year with the holy month of Ramadan, both observances remain deeply meaningful for many in the Arab and Muslim communities.

Arab America and the Arab America Foundation launched the National Arab American Heritage Month initiative in 2017 with just a handful of states recognizing the initiative. Each year, their grass-roots network of over 250 volunteers in 26 states gathered hundreds of proclamations from their states, counties, municipalities, and local school districts.

Former President of the United States Joe Biden recognized the month of April as National Arab American Heritage Month with a special commemorative letter to the Arab American Foundation. In 2022, Congress, the U.S. Department of State, and 45 state governors issued proc-

lamations commemorating the initiative. Additionally, the following states have passed permanent legislation designating the month of April as NAAHM: Illinois, Oregon, Virginia, Indiana, and California. Although Ramadan does not fall in April this year, its significance remains closely tied to many Arab American experiences. Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, and this year it occurred from Wednesday, February 18 to Friday, March 20. Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is observed through fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, and acts of charity. It serves as a time for spiritual reflection and discipline. Even outside of its calendar dates, its values of community, compassion, and gratitude among the Arab Americans continue to resonate.

In recent years, schools and workplaces have made efforts to be more inclusive during Ramadan, offering accommodations such as flexible schedules or designated quiet spaces. Meanwhile, public recognition of Arab Heritage Month has grown, with more cities and states officially acknowledging the celebration.

JULIA LEVAN Staff Writer

Rising gas prices have probably caught your attention, due to numerous global issues affecting the petroleum market. The conflict between Iran and the U.S. is certainly one of the factors influencing the recent rise in price; however, side effects produced by the crisis might have an even larger impact on your wallet than how much you pay to fill up.

The narrow strait known as the Strait of Hormuz runs alongside Iran and serves as a bottleneck for a large percentage of the world’s commercial shipping. Approximately 10-15% of the world’s oil supply passes through it. When there are disruptions in this area, oil prices surge. Higher oil prices equal higher gas prices. We can already feel this as we’ve been impacted by rising oil prices since the start of the U.S.-Iran conflict with prices crossing the $115 per barrel mark.

But oil isn’t the only thing stuck there. The Gulf region also supplies about a third of the world’s fertilizer. When that gets cut off, fertilizer prices spike. Urea, one of the most common types, is already up 35% since the conflict began. I recently came across an Economist article that put it bluntly: the CEO of Yara, one of the world’s largest fertilizer companies, warned that a prolonged Hormuz closure would be “catastrophic” for food supply. That kind of pressure squeezes farmers’ profit margins and drags down agriculturerelated stocks across the board.

It doesn’t stop there. Aluminum is up nearly $300 a ton, hitting packaging, EV, and energy companies hard. Petrochemical shortages are rippling through pharmaceutical and plastics manufacturers. These aren’t hidden corners of the market; they show up in the funds and ETFs everyday investors hold.

This is why investors watch geopolitics so closely. One chokepoint, one conflict, and whole sectors shift overnight.

Swipe Your Life Awaaaaay

Doomscrolling is not a foreign term to most iPhone and social media users, and while it gets thrown around casually, the habit carries some serious consequences. At its core, overconsumption of media means scrolling nonstop through news and social media to the point where it starts affecting your daily life, and for a lot of people, that point comes sooner than they think.

The mental health impacts are well documented. Research has found that more frequent exposure to news is directly linked to higher levels of anxiety, fear, and emotional distress. Psychologist Don Grant described the effect as “media saturation overload,” noting that many people do not even realize at first that the news has affected their mood. Constantly jumping between content also fragments your attention span and pulls you away from real life interactions.

Physically, the effects are just as real. Eye strain, fatigue, and disrupted sleep are all common side effects of too much screen time, especially before bed.

The good news is that small changes make a real difference. Setting a daily time limit for news and social media, unfollowing accounts that consistently leave you feeling worse, and creating no-screen zones during meals or before bed all help reset unhealthy habits.

Replacing some scroll time with a hobby, a book, or time outside goes a long way, too.

Being informed matters, but so does knowing when to log off.

One-Click Culture

With today’s advanced technology, spending has become easier than ever. With a simple motion of hovering your cell phone over the card reader, a transaction can be completed within seconds. While this feature might be convenient, it promotes mindless spending, as it requires zero effort or thought before surrendering your digital credit card. This form of cashless payment takes away the burden of spending, and its accessibility prompts consumers to spend more frequently and impulsively In just over a decade, Apple Pay has become undeniably ubiquitous. You may have noticed more of your favorite in-person and online shops increasingly accepting it as a form of payment. With that, there might have been times when you are met with frustration when Apple Pay is not an acceptable remittance method and you must manually type in your credit card number.

Digitalized payment has simply made spending feel almost unreal as you don’t physically see the transaction occurring - it’s invisible. Without the thoughtful gesture of pulling out your credit card or even counting out paper money there is no time to consider what it is you are really purchasing.

The Overconsumption Crisis

AI at a Cost?

Artificial Intelligence has become a staple in our daily lives, helping people with either schoolwork, jobs, or even someone to talk to. AI can be used in a variety of ranges and is widely accessible to all.

Having such a broad area of users and uses for AI, consumers develop a dependency on it. Simple tasks like choosing what to have for breakfast are completed on the reliance of an AI device. AI has replaced basic human skills which leads to weaker critical thinking. Users are starting to rely so heavily on AI to a point where they are not fact checking the information provided. Accuracy and trust are never fully correct and could have certain biases against information.

Without users questioning and/or fact checking the information, it can lead to improper decisions or the use of incorrect data while completing a task.

Using AI in the education or work system is a controversial topic with many different opinions. It brings responsibility into question. When AI makes a mistake on assignments, whose fault is it, the AI or the user? While AI can be a powerful tool, it is important to use safely and responsibly, and make users call upon their own creativity and skills

The rise of artificial intelligence data centers has led to an unprecedented environmental decline. Due to AI’s immense need for cooling, it is possible that 760 billion liters of water will be used by the end of 2026. In 2025 alone, AI data centers used as much water as the total global bottled water consumption for a year. Not only that, but artificial intelligence data centers produce millions of tons of carbon a year, eerily similar to New York City’s carbon footprint.

This generates electronic waste that contaminates the soil and water around the data center. The rapid rise in AI development over the last year alone may lead to greater reliance on fossil fuels, as newer models will put pressure on energy grids to increase consumption and reduce efficiency. However, there are solutions.

First, energy grids should transition to clean energy solutions, specifically nuclear energy. Second, AI companies should optimize their products to increase efficiency rather than profit, and implement new cooling methods such as free-air cooling or submersion. Finally, these companies should focus on extending their hardware’s lifespan through upgrades rather than full replacements. While these changes would be difficult and force these companies to lose profit, it would ultimately help the environment in the long term.

Sort Your Life Out

In a world where material possessions take priority, the things we buy define who we are. Behind the hauls and curated shelf displays, many people identify as collectors or superfans of particular brands. While normalized, owing multiple versions of products is a normalized effect of consumerism. This form of overconsumption - the obsession with collecting every version - is a result of targeted marketing, designed to keep customers wanting more.

Recently, this issue has intensified with the creation of mystery boxes: items sold without revealing which version is inside. The uncertainty draws people to purchase many boxes in order to score the “rare” or “special edition” items. These mystery boxes always surge in popularity for a few months before fading away, leaving consumers with multiples of their useless items. The most recent fad to pass were Sonny Angels, small Japanese collectible figurines. Now, collecting stress toys is in style: all across social media, people are vying for the “ultra-rare” Holographic and Pink Glitter varieties of blind-box dumplings.

Like always, completionism drives many to overconsumption - the desire to own every version. While hardcore collectors are often associated with Funko Pops or sneaker collections, many others are unknowingly contributing to the problem. Do you have numerous colors of Stanley cups? Have you ever purchased the same Lululemon shirt in multiple colors “just because?”

Supersize

It

When we think of fast food, we think of Wendy’s, McDonalds, and Chick-fil-A - all that good greasy, mouthwatering stuff that we so crave after a long day. Nothing hits the spot like a nice, warm chicken sandwich after school. While fast food is without a doubt delicious, it also has some profound impacts on both your health and the environment.

There have been many medical studies that have shown a distinct correlation between fast food and diseases such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. According to the Cleveland Clinic, fast food contains high levels of sodium, which increase your blood pressure, and eventually narrows and stiffens your blood vessels, thus putting you at a high risk for heart disease. But what about the environment? You are probably wondering how that one burger you ate on Tuesday impacts the environment. According to Environmental Technology, the fast-food industry’s consumption of water and dairy products poses serious threats to the environment as it prompts deforestation and emits many harmful greenhouse gases into the environment. While fast food isn’t good for you, you shouldn’t feel guilty about one burger. It’s important that you don’t make it a habit every day.

Trendy outfits at low prices may seem like a win, but fast fashion is creating a much bigger issue behind the scenes. Fast fashion refers to inexpensive clothing produced quickly to keep up with current trends. While it allows people to constantly refresh their wardrobes, it also encourages overconsumption and waste.

Many popular brands release new collections almost every week, making it easy for consumers to feel pressure to keep up.

Having a digitalized wallet forces one to question if financial discipline and deliberation are being sacrificed for convenience. Haul

If so, you may be part of the problem as well. Owning duplicates is seldom necessary, yet it is constantly normalized. Overconsumption when it comes to collecting is all around us.

Room to Spare

Walk through any newer suburb and you’ll notice something: the houses are massive. It’s gotten ridiculous, with some including three-car garages, home gyms, golf simulators, basketball courts, and multiple shelves and closets to make space for all the unnecessary purchases.

In the 1950’s, the average American home was around 983 square feet. Today, that number has more than doubled to roughly 2500 square feet, even as the average household size has actually gotten smaller. A family of four now lives in a space that used to house two families.

So, what changed? We started buying more stuff. A lot more. Suddenly we needed a room for the golf simulator, a separate guest bedroom nobody uses, and a dedicated workout space. We filled our houses with things we convinced ourselves we needed, then bought bigger houses to fit it all.

The thing is, you don’t need most of it. The guest bedroom is used once a year when family comes to visit. That home gym can be found two miles away from your house - bigger and better. The basketball court gets used even though there’s a public park down the street.

Larger homes cost more to heat, cool, and maintain. They consume more materials to build. Research suggests that beyond a certain size, more space doesn’t make people happier; it just gives you more to clean and more to fill. The American Dream had always included a home. Perhaps we need to rethink how big that home needs to be. Image courtesy of lzbearfacts.com.

Crazy sales with a giant “70% OFF” sticker slapped on make that $80 polyester top look a little cuter. As a result, clothes are often worn only a few times before being thrown away, not made to last. According to environmental studies, millions of tons of clothing end up in landfills each year, heavily contributing to pollution and environmental damage.

Beyond waste, fast fashion also raises concerns about how clothing is made.

Many items are produced in factories with poor working conditions and low wages, meaning workers rather than shoppers often pay the true cost of cheap clothing. It’s not just brands like Shein or Temu that have these accusations; it’s also the more popular, in-person stores like Zara and Urban Outfitters.

While it may be unrealistic to completely avoid fast fashion, try to make more thoughtful choices. Buying fewer, higher-quality items, thrifting, and shopping second-hand are simple ways to help reduce the impact.

Photos courtesy of shopltk.com.

Hear me Out

with Caroline Johnson

Have you ever listened to a song and thought that the singer’s heart just wasn’t in it? Like they were reciting the lyrics, no emotional connection to the music? For up-and-coming R&B artist kwn, her situation is clearly the opposite. Her background as a music producer and complete involvement in the production process - mixing her own beats, singing her own background vocals, and writing her own lyrics - makes it obvious that she puts her soul into her work.

Her first studio album, with all due respect, brings a rich blend of hip-hop, jazz, and alternative pop sounds to the R&B genre - think The Weeknd meets SZA. The central theme of her music is love, often complicated and messy. Take “stand on it,” for example, where she openly admits her own faults in relationships. Her rapping mixed with the harmonizing background vocals makes kwn stand out against other artists in the genre. Then, “worst behavior” follows, with its lyrics leaning toward a classic love song.

At the end of the album are “do what i say” and “war to be over,” shifting to stories of trying to keep relationships together and getting through rough patches. Her

clever wordplay shines throughout these two. Across with all due respect, kwn beautifully tells the story of a relationship from start to finish, making her album one for the ages: cohesive and memorable.

Surprisingly, kwn is often criticized for her voice, with some listeners citing that she relies too heavily on her stylized autotune. While it definitely alters her sound, the autotune highlights her background in producing music. She knows how to use it to her advantage. What she may lack in vocals, kwn more than makes up for in her natural flow and electric stage presence.

Her 2026 single “hopeless romantic” dropped as fans await a new album. It’s definitely worth the listen - her lyrics are as clever and catchy as ever - but it shows her evolving sound. Overall, “hopeless romantic” is slower and more emotional than past releases. Moreover, its much less jazz-inspired than her fantastic earlier songs (like “eyes wide open” in particular). During her tour this year, she teased even more unreleased music. These songs are tentatively named “til you cry” and “idea of love,” and I am particularly excited to see if these will be featured on her upcoming album.

XO, Kitty receives great reviews

Season 3 of XO, Kitty is an emotional and meaningful season that really sticks with you. It made me laugh, but more than that, it made me feel a lot more. This season focuses less on being funny all the time and more on showing real

emotions, growth, and relationships, which I liked more. There are still some great, funny moments, especially with Dae, but the heart of the season is in the deeper conversations and character development.

One of the best parts of this season is how the characters communicate with each other. Instead of constant drama, we see more honest and healthy conversations, especially in some of the later episodes. It feels more real and mature, making the characters easier to connect with. Yuri and Dae both have strong growth arcs, and it was really satisfying to watch them become more confident and supportive people.

The acting also stands out this season. Anna Cathcart brings more depth to Kitty, and Sang Heon Lee does a great job showing Min Ho’s emotions, especially in the more serious scenes. Their performances make the story feel more genuine. The relationship between Kitty and Min Ho is another highlight. It’s not perfect, but that’s what makes it good. Their ups and downs show that relationships take growth and understanding.

Overall, Season 3 isn’t perfect, but it’s heartfelt, thoughtful, and very enjoyable. It leaves you feeling hopeful and connected to the characters.

A1 Cinema

ANYA KALE Staff Writer

The Andy Weir big screen adaptation of the sci-fi novel Project Hail Mary was one of the most anticipated films for April 2026, and while I wasn’t extremely impressed with the story, the film did not disappoint. It delivered exceedingly well on the sci-fi and world building elements. There’s no doubt that with the film’s intricate visuals you don’t feel extremely immersed in the deep-space world. I was also very impressed with Ryan Gosling‘s performance, especially considering that for most of the movie, he was acting alongside a non-human costar. His relationship with his alien companion Rocky was very charming and was one of my favorite things about the film. However, I didn’t find the adapted story

as compelling as I found The Martian, for example, which was another very popular Andy Weir adaptation. That’s not to say that the story fell flat in the movie. It was very well executed, but I found it very surface level and lacking substance. The film still works well with all its elements combined.

The jokes were very funny and not forced, which I really appreciated in light of the recent oversaturation of science fiction stories which has been present in many large-scale commercial films recently. Seeing the film on the big screen was a great experience, and the movie is a great example of the importance of seeing films in the theater.

Overall, Project Hail Mary was a fun science fiction movie and definitely an engaging theater experience.

Leopoldstadt performs in Houston

ANYA KALE Staff Writer

Main Street Theater hosted the final play of legendary playwright Tom Stoppard, Leopoldstadt. Known for his absurdist play Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead and his Best Original Screenplay Oscar win for the 1998 film Shakespeare in Love.

Leopoldstadt follows a wealthy Jewish family in Vienna across 56 years, from 1899-1955. The family navigates rising antisemitism, the Holocaust, and the after-

math of World War II.

The play deals with themes of assimilation, heritage, generational struggle, and morality. We explore the lives of the characters and their motivations. The family navigates the changing definition of identity with the rise of Nazism, and with the background of the cultural hub

that is Vienna during this period, Stoppard weaves an intricate story that discusses culture through a deeply real and grating lens.

The characters discuss assimilation at length, and throughout the events of the play, this discussion changes as the moral standards of each character is deeply influenced by the loss of culture in the Holocaust, and the literal loss of their close family members. The characters’ ethical standards begin to diverge with the rise of Zionism post-war, and this provides a genuine lens through which we view political opinions.

Stoppard’s writing allows us to emotionally engage with the characters and clearly see their internal struggle and how their feelings play out into their actions. This play portrays how life circumstances shape personal opinions extremely well and is an incredible representation of the power that stories have to help us foster empathy for one another.

LIV Golf is challenging tradition and reshaping professional golf

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

Let’s be honest - the LIV Golf Tour has become one of the most controversial developments in professional golf in a long time, and it’s not hard to see why. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the tour has poured enormous sums of money into attracting top players from the PGA Tour. While the financial appeal is undeniable, it raises serious ethical, cultural, and competitive concerns.

As of 2024-2025, over 50 current and former PGA Tour players have signed with LIV Golf, many lured by massive guaranteed contracts. Major champions like Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson made headlines by joining, along with stars such as Dustin Johnson and Sergio Garcia. These moves suggest that, for some, financial gain now outweighs tradition and legacy. LIV’s contracts - sometimes exceeding over $100 million - far surpass typical PGA earnings, where even large tournament purses pale in comparison. When the sport’s biggest names prioritize money over competition, what message does that send to future players? This shift is also changing how fans view loyalty in the sport. It raises questions about whether the sport can maintain the same level of consistency and tradition moving forward.

The concerns extend beyond the athletes. Critics argue that the Tour is full of “sportswashing,” a term meaning the use of high-profile sports to boost a country’s morale, while ignoring serious human rights violations. In essence, every player

who joins, from Koepka to Mickelson, indirectly supports this, raising questions about whether success and financial gain can be justified, even if it comes at an ethical cost.

Additionally, the impact on traditional golf cannot be ignored. Established and historic tournaments have lost some of their star power, weakening events that once defined the sport. LIV’s flashy format and enormous payouts risk shifting focus away from the sport. LIV’s flashy format and enormous payouts risk shifting focus away from skill, history, and competition, creating a distorted view of success for aspiring golfers.

Despite its past financial strength, LIV Golf has shown signs of instability. The tour is currently facing heavy speculation about potentially shutting down due to concerns that its main financial backer, Saudi Public Investment Fund, may withdraw support. Despite these rumors, league officials insist the 2026 season will continue as planned, even as uncertainty about its long-term stability continues to circulate.

Ultimately, LIV Golf represents a turning point in professional sports, highlighting the growing tension between money and integrity. To preserve the future of the game, golf’s governing bodies must establish clearer ethical standards while still supporting competitive opportunities. At the same time, players must consider the broader impact of their decisions. Only by balancing financial incentives with respect for the sport’s history and values can professional golf maintain its credibility for generations to come.

Lack of exposure to diverse ideas has led to a loss of civil discourse

ANYA PANT

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Discourse is at the heart of all functioning democracies. However, it frequently feels as though discourse cannot happen with those that disagree with us. For one reason or another, it always seems to end in anger and raised voices. Or more commonly these days, in angry tweets or heated TikTok comment sections where strangers bash each other behind screen names. With the intense polarization of this period, coupled with our newfound anonymity behind computer and phone screens, can we get back to a society of healthy discourse? The statistics paint a troubling picture for the future. Using politics as an example, according to the Pew Research Center’s 2022 study on political polarization, 86% of Americans now say conflicts between Democrats and Republicans are either strong or very strong, up from 81% in 2020. Americans increasingly live in ideological bubbles, consuming news that confirms their existing beliefs while avoiding perspectives that might challenge them. A Reuters Institute study found that 37% of Americans actively avoid news that challenges their worldview. Social media algorithms, designed to maximize engagement, feed us content that provokes strong emotional reactions rather than content that makes us want to sit and think about it. Research from New York University’s Center for Social Media and Politics demonstrates that false news stories spread six times faster on Twitter than true stories, largely because they trigger more intense emotional responses.

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor-in-Chief

At a recent admitted students event for Plan II Honors at UT Austin, one professor said something in his Effective Thinking Through Mathematics lecture that struck me: We as a society are deeply uncomfortable with not knowing the answer. In other words, we are too quick to ask for help.

At first, it seemed obvious. Of course we don’t like uncertainty; it’s not a fun feeling to have. Clearly, it wasn’t obvious because this thought has followed me to all the parts of my life, so much that I’ve formed a strong opinion on this matter. The more I live through this, the more I realize how much this discomfort shapes the way we think, learn and live.

We don’t sit with questions anymore or let ideas unfold through wrestling confusion. Instead, we Google it, ask Siri, or type it into ChatGPT. Within seconds, the discomfort of not knowing disappears. Simultaneously, the process of thinking does too.

Psychologists have found that uncertainty doesn’t just make us uncomfortable, it also intensifies our perception of threat. In experiments, people were more stressed when there was only a chance of something bad happening than when the outcome was certain. In other words, not knowing can feel worse than knowing something bad will happen. Quick instincts helped our ancestors survive, but today we are pushed to search for instant answers and reassurance.

We see this everywhere: refreshing inboxes, checking messages, needing immediate feedback. We are conditioned to eliminate uncertainty as quickly as possible, and our dependence and easy access to technology has only made this easier.

Consider the difference between a faceto-face conversation with your neighbor who holds opposing political views and an online exchange with a stranger whose profile picture is a black circle. MIT research published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that people are 40% more likely to use dehumanizing language when communicating through digital interfaces compared to face-to-face interactions. In person, we see each other’s humanity, reminding us to be empathetic when in debate.

The consequences extend far beyond hurt feelings. When we lose the ability to engage productively with those who disagree with us, we become incapable of addressing the challenges facing our society. Climate change, healthcare, economic inequality, and education reform are some examples of issues that require solutions.

Yet hope remains. The National Issues Forums Institute reports a 25% increase in participation in structured dialogue programs over the past three years. Across the country, communities are rediscovering the power of face-to-face dialogue. Town halls are being reimagined with facilitators. Libraries are hosting what are now called “democracy cafes” where citizens can practice discussing difficult topics respectfully. These initiatives share common elements: they bring people together physically, establish ground rules for respectful engagement, and focus on understanding rather than “winning” the argument. The future of democracy may well depend on our ability to step away from our screens and rediscover the lost art of civil discourse. We owe ourselves nothing less.

What seems like a convenience also has a cost. When we constantly rely on external answers, we stop developing our cognitive tools to figure things out ourselves. We lose curiosity and our ability to think deeply. Before our time, people used to take random junk and materials around their house and create something new, using nothing but their brain and curiosity. Now, with the help of AI and the internet, you can generate all your answers with the click of a button.

Teachers preach that there’s a difference between knowing an answer and understanding it. One takes seconds the other takes struggle. But the struggle, the uncomfortable “I don’t get it yet” feeling is where real learning happens. It’s where critical thinking is built, and when we skip that stage, we may get an A+, but we hit a wall in growth.

The students who sit in the discomfort, who “noodle” through problems without immediately outsourcing thinking are learning how to think, not just what to think. And that was the basis of the professor’s lecture as well as the motive behind the Plan II education.

In a world were information is so instantly accessible, that skill matters more than ever. The future isn’t made up of questions with easy answers. In fact, the future holds the hardest discoveries to be made yet. The people who succeed won’t be the ones who look things up the fastest but the opposite. Maybe the goal isn’t to eliminate uncertainty, but to get better at living with it. So next time you don’t know something, resist the urge and instead sit with it and struggle a little. You may not find the answer immediately, but you will learn how to better find answers in general.

Tennis teams shoot for comeback before SPC

PAIGE PAN Features Editor

The tennis team has shown steady growth and determination throughout the season, building a strong foundation for the future despite facing tough competition. One of the most notable matches this season took place on Friday, March 27, at a tournament hosted by John Cooper. The boys team fell just short in a close 2–3 loss, while the girls team faced a challenging 0–5 result against strong opponents.

Despite the losses, several players stood out for their performances and effort. William Fitts delivered an impressive singles victory, winning 6–1, 6–1. In doubles, Saif Mujtaba and Max Pinheiro battled through a demanding three-set match, ultimately securing a win with a tiebreaker score of (7-4). On the girls’ side, Maddie Achilefu has been a key contributor, showing per a

strong work ethic throughout the season.

Beyond individual results, the team has shown significant improvement in resilience and confidence. Players are learning to compete point by point and are developing a stronger mental game. This growth has been especially evident among newer and younger players, who continue to gain valuable experience with each match.

However, there are still areas for improvement. Coach Corey Tuttle emphasized consistency as a key focus for the team, along with the need for more practice to sharpen skills and execution during matches. These are goals the team is actively working toward as they continue to develop.

Looking ahead, the team is striving to compete at a higher level, and for next season, they have set their sights on winning SPC.

Track runs on student body support

CLAYTON COX Staff Writer

Episcopal’s track and field team has been hard at work staying competitive going into SPC.

Regarding the team’s performance Head Coach Isaiah Coleman stated, “The season is going well. We have over 100 studentathletes competing in the program, and all have had the opportunity to contribute.”

Obviously, the team is always faced with challenges and obstacles. When asked what their main challenges are, Coach Coleman responded that they “must remain healthy.” Going into SPC with injuries can be detrimental to any program, any sport.”

In terms of leadership, the track program has more than 20 seniors. Coleman pointed out, “That type of veteran leadership is extremely important going into SPC.”

“We want our athletes to continue to build upon what they have accomplished this spring,” he added. “If they are competing in another sport for EHS that is great, that’s what we want. If they choose not to, they must remain engaged with their fitness.”

If anyone in the general student body is wondering what they can do to support the program, Coleman asked that “the student body continue to cheer on [their] peers individually and collectively. It’s not easy to spend all day (or night) at a track meet, but their presence is felt and appreciated.”

Golfers go for school greatness

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

The varsity boys and girls golf teams have had strong showings across multiple recent tournaments and at difficult courses, continuing to establish themselves as top competitors for the SPC championships.

At the John Cooper Invitational, hosted at the pro-tour tournament course Golf Club of Houston, the girls team dominated the field to secure a first-place win, while the boys battled through tough competition to earn a tie for fifth. Both teams carried that momentum into the Episcopal High School Invitational at Quail Valley’s El Dorado course. The boys improved their standing with a fourth-place finish. The girls just missed another victory, placing second by just one stroke and

extending their streak of top two podium finishes all season.

To prepare for SPC, the girls also competed in a best ball match against Kinkaid at East River Nine after school on a Wednesday evening. The match provided one last opportunity to fine-tune teamwork and course strategy before the final tournament of the season. As SPC approaches, both teams are honed into their practice. With scores across the board remaining very close, competition for the top five spots on each roster has been very tight. Players are pushing each other daily, knowing that every stroke on the course matters and makes an extreme difference in securing a place in the lineup and the SPC trophy.

With consistent finishes and a competitive drive, both teams are well-positioned to make a strong run at SPC and end their season with great success!

Student-athletes finalize their college commitments

BRYAN ZHAN Staff Writer

On April 22, EHS proudly celebrated Division III Signing Day, recognizing a remarkable group of student-athletes who committed to continuing both their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. These athletes demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and passion. Their achievements reflect years of hard work. Leading the group were football standouts Jake Campbell (Washington and Lee), Tommy Hetherington (Middlebury), Travis Johnson (Schreiner), and Jared Pineda (Pace), each of whom showed exceptional leadership and commitment on the field. Their determination and discipline will serve them well as they transition to the next level.

In cross country and distance track, Will Pacey (Washington and Lee) and

Georgia Bass (NYU) have consistently pushed themselves to excel, setting a high standard through their endurance and competitive spirit.

On the diamond, Reid Sasser (Suwanee), Michael Chin (NYU), and Marco Quintanilla (Trinity) made their mark in baseball with skill, teamwork, and resilience. Their contributions have been vital to their team’s success.

In soccer, Jocelyn Day (MIT), Kyra Spears (Haverford), and Saige Clary (Trinity) have showcased tremendous talent, vision, and dedication on and off campus. Their ability to balance academics and athletics highlights the true spirit of Division III competition.

Division III athletics emphasize the importance of the student-athlete experience, where academic excellence and athletic passion go hand in hand. These individuals embody that balance and represent the Episcopal community with pride.

Girls lacrosse builds on momentum going into a competitive SPC

LIZ BURKE Social Media Coordinator

Episcopal High School girls lacrosse teams are having a strong season so far, showing skill, determination, and teamwork in every game.

The junior varsity team has had some big wins, including a 9–7 victory over St. Agnes, an 8–6 win against St. John’s School, a 15–3 blowout over Lamar, an 8–4 win over Stratford, and an 11–8 victory at Kinkaid, showing how much the team has grown and improved throughout the season.

The varsity team has also been impressive, earning wins over Awty International School 19–6, Lamar High School 16–7, and Houston Christian High School 17–1, highlighting their explosive offense and solid defense.

Team captains Annie Schaefer, Lucy Davenport, and Mary Elizabeth Pennington have led the way, helping set a positive tone and encouraging players to step

up when it matters most.

The juniors has been especially consistent this season. At the same time, freshmen and sophomores have already proven to be game changers, contributing to wins and helping build the future of this sucessful program.

One memorable moment came in the varsity’s close game against Kinkaid, which showed that Episcopal can compete with some of the best teams in the state.

Overall, both junior varsity and varsity have shown growth, dedication, and teamwork, making the season exciting for players and fans alike.

With experienced leaders and rising talent working together, the Knights are building momentum as the season continues. The teams are proving they can compete at a high level, and this season’s wins reflect all the hard work, determination, and energy they bring to the field. Fans have plenty to cheer for as both teams continue to make their mark and show what Episcopal lacrosse is all about.

Challenging competition prepares baseball for a tough SPC playoff

CHARLOTTE

MEHNERT

Copy Editor

Varsity baseball is on the right path to secure an SPC title, opening the quest with a 19-8 record. With one of the toughest schedules in the state of Texas, the team has proved their determination against elite competition.

Earlier in the season, the team battled against Tomball (ranked #1 in the country in some polls) but unfortunately could not pull out a win after leading 1-0 in the seventh inning. Competing against the best of the best shows both their potential and the fine margins of top-quality baseball.

Against St. John’s in the opening of SPC competition, the Knights delivered an exciting victory. In the bottom of the tenth with the game tied 1-1, senior Reid Sasser (Sewanee), delivered an amazing three-

run walk-off home run to secure the win. The athletes respect all rival schools as baseball is a game where anyone can beat anyone on any given night. The team is hungry and craving victory, keeping their focus on their past experience and adapting to it.

Coach Matt Fox added, “I truly believe our biggest opponent is ourselves,” revealing how baseball is not just physically demanding but also mentally. The coaching staff has led the team with expertise and strategy, proving how vital they are to the team.

Playing all the tournaments earlier in the season prepared the pitching staff with depth and experience. The pitching staff is led by senior Will Bozeman (University of New Orleans) and senior Marco Quintanilla (Trinity). Many different pitchers were used to get the perfect fit for SPC.

Knights softball looks to nine-peat after a hot start

CHARLOTTE MEHNERT Copy

Editor

As in previous years, the Knights softball team entered SPC as a team to dominate. St. John’s and Houston Christian stood out as potential threats to the Knights quest for an nine-consecutive title. Against the Mavericks on March 31, the Knights had an epic win, winning 6-0 and earning a boost in confidence going into SPC.

Pitching is a major strength for the team. Senior Jordan Bey leads the rotation with an outstanding season, constantly delivering strong performances in the circle. In the biggest game of the season, she delivered a complete game shutout masterpiece to best St. John’ s. Four talented freshmen pitchers stand behind her, adding depth and flexibility. All these reliable options help them dominate the field with different pitch mixes, adding unpredictability to their gameplan.

The roster reflects a balanced mix of skilled young players and experienced senior leaders. The younger athletes

Boys lacrosse goes into their first playoffs in two years looking strong

BRYAN ZHAN Staff Writer

The boy’s lacrosse team currently sits at 2–1 in SPC play and is building momentum at the right time in the season. More important than the record, the group has begun to gel, with players committing to one another and buying into a team-first approach. When they play together and work for each other, the results follow, and they have shown they can compete in any game on their schedule.

That growing chemistry has translated into a noticeable increase in practice intensity. With just 21 days remaining in the season, the players have developed a heightened sense of urgency. They understand what is at stake and are determined to finish strong, pushing each other to improve with every session.

Last Friday night presented a key opportunity as St. John’s came to campus. A win would secure a spot in the SPC playoffs, something the program has not achieved in the past two years. They delivered under pressure, with an explosive 17-5 win to advance to their first SPC in 2 years.

demands to ensure the team is mentally prepared for its opponent.

The team suffered an unfortune loss against Kinkaid 14-3. The team plays Kinkaid in the semifinals and they vow to come for revenge.

Looking ahead, the team looks to cap off the regular season with a district victory over Memorial before heading into the playoffs.

always manage to bring an unmatched energy and emerging talent through their strong and promising performances. The upperclassmen provide the leadership and composure vital for a strong team. The blend allows the team to grow together and maintain focus throughout the season.

Offensively, senior Jordan Bey leads the team slashing an impressive .486/.886/1.424, while junior Alexis Johnson supplies the power at the plate with two triples and five home runs. Two freshmen are making an immediate impact: Amanda DeBusk has taken over at third base and tallied six doubles, and outfielder Avery Marx leads the team with a .556 on-base percentage.

In addition to the varsity’s major success, the program has reached an amazing milestone. There is officially a true JV team for the first time in several years. The JV squad remains undefeated against other JV teams, earning many wins and one tie. Their development and success highlight the growing process of the program and created optimism for the future of softball at EHS.

The coaching staff has also emphasized a structured game-week approach. Practices begin with high intensity early in the week, focusing on execution and competitiveness, before tapering the physical

Speaks Out Breaking News

“If you had an extra room in your house, what would it be for?”

MRS. MICHAEL “A room for my holiday decorations”

Celebrity Sighting

Spotted! Little J making her way through the halls of EHS. Students do a double take as they spot their peer, Julia Bumgarner. Can you blame them? With her long blonde hair and fresh-faced look, Julia bears a striking resemblance to a young Jenny Humphrey in the early seasons of Gossip Girl. Julia’s bright eyes and effortlessly natural style have fellow students wondering if Brooklyn’s most lovable up-and-coming fashionista has traded the Humphrey loft for the EHS campus, or if she’s quietly plotting for something bigger. Whether it’s pure coincidence or just very good genes, one thing’s clear: this real-life Jenny isn’t staying in the background. She’s turning heads, starting whispers, and making sure no one forgets her name. Careful, EHS. Today, it’s double takes. Tomorrow, it’s headlines. XOXO, The Knight Times Photos courtesy of gettyimages.com and Julia Levan.