The Knight Times / December 2025 Issue 5

THE KNIGHT TIMES

Students’ tireless efforts pay off in outstanding Fall Dance Concert

The 2025 Visual Fall Arts Exhibition was a vibrant and fun showcase celebrating the visual arts students. The event was from 6-8 pm, allowing guests to closely view each piece of art and learn about the adjudication results in the USC on the main stage on Wednesday, December 3. The awards presentations were at 6:45. The show allows for the students to showcase their talents and dedication to their craft. The students took this opportunity very seriously and their hard-work paid off.

The diverse pieces of artwork were featured in multiple locations across the Episcopal High School campus. Art enthusiasts could find pieces in the Underwood Student Center Gallery, Margarett and Herman Brown Learning Resource Center Building hallways and the Trotter Gallery. The exhibition included works from all students enrolled in a studio art or photography program.

One of the special processes for choosing the winners is the adjudication process. Students had the chance to submit their work which was then evaluated by a juror outside of the EHS community. There were two jurors, one for studio art and another for photography. This was to ensure an unbiased assessment of each student’s work. The awards show was divided into three categories. The categories were 2D Studio Art, 3D Studio Art, and Photography.

Food and drinks were also provided by EHS Food Services.

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“The Fall Dance Concert attracted a large audience as friends and family who showed up to support the dancers. The evening served as a showcase for dancers to reveal the skills they accumulated throughout the semester. Each piece performed incorporated dynamic patterns and impressive visuals, captivating the audience from start to finish.”

Last Advent service celebrated in Benitez Chapel

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

Episcopal High School welcomes the Advent season with its annual evening Advent Chapel, a tradition that has shaped the school’s religious life since the 1980s.

Modeled after the historic Anglican “Lessons and Carols” service, the evening gathering blends scripture readings and beloved hymns to trace the story of God’s relationship with humanity and the anticipation of Christ’s birth.

What students often appreciate most is the setting of the service. Held after dark, Advent Chapel offers a perfect pause in the December finals rush, a moment to step away from homework, studying, and athletic practices to experience a peaceful service as a community. The quiet dimness of the chapel, paired with soft candlelight and familiar songs, creates a sense of calm that contrasts with the typical boisterous school day. Many students say that sharing this stillness as a community is what makes the service so special each year.

Preparation for the service unfolds long before the evening itself. In daily chapel services and during Tuneful Tuesdays leading up to the event, students learn or revisit several of the carols they will later sing together, building a sense of anticipation and familiarity. Some of these include “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” a popular one among the student body. Meanwhile,

the choir dedicates weeks of rehearsal to their featured hymns, and readers and acolytes practice until perfection to ensure the service runs smoothly.

The service opened with a hymn sung by a select ensemble of choir students, which was followed by the full congregation joining in. The rest of the evening followed the classic Lessons and Carols pattern: alter-

nating readings from students and faculty members with carols and songs from the hymnals.

As the community rose for the final hymn, the chapel was filled with a renewed sense of connection and expectation. For many, Advent Chapel remains EHS’s most treasured tradition—a reminder of the hope and joy during the Christmas season.

ANYA PANT Co-Editor in Chief

The holiday season is upon us! Marked by family, food, friends, and a little bit of rest and relaxation, many of us can’t wait for that final school bell of the year to ring. However, with the holidays nearing, it’s important to keep in mind the different situations everybody goes back home to when school nears an end.

In Houston and Harris County alone, about 2 in 5 families (40%) face some type of food insecurity, significantly exceeding the national average of 14%. This means that these families struggle to consistently access enough nutritious food. In order to do our part to help the greater Houston community, EHS students came together last month for a schoolwide drive supporting Target Hunger, a Houston-based nonprofit addressing food insecurity.

The initiative, held from November 17-20, was organized through the school’s Ministry of Hunger led by senior Saif Mujtaba, who worked closely with the Director of SOS Mrs. Katie Samson to coordinate the event and engage the student body. The partnership began when Target Hunger reached out to Episcopal about hosting a drive.

“After that, Mrs. Samson and I met and planned everything using the information on their website,” Saif explained. Saif and Mrs. Samson structured a fourday campaign, arranged for a Friday dropoff at Target Hunger’s warehouse, and created a grade-level competition to boost participation. The grade contributing the most items would earn early release from chapel on December 1 along with an advi-

sory holiday party, adding an incentive to boost the amount of charitable effort. Saif oversaw all the marketing for the drive, detailing how he designed flyers to increase participation.

“I pulled the mission statement from Target Hunger to give students a sense of who we were supporting. It highlighted that 17 percent of Harris County residents and one in five children face chronic hunger, and that donations help provide meals and hope to families in need. Any packaged or canned food was welcome. The last part of the flyer explained the drop off location, which was four boxes across from the attendance desk, one for each grade.”

Between the chapel incentive and the marketing, the drive was able to collect 251 food items, all of which were delivered to Target Hunger to support families. In the friendly competition, freshmen claimed first place, followed by seniors, juniors, and sophomores.

For Saif, the experience of overseeing and planning the event was “both challenging and deeply meaningful.”

“I chose to lead Ministry of Hunger because I wanted to do something that felt real in our community. Food insecurity affects more people than we think, and if I can help even a small amount, it matters. Being an SOS leader comes with a lot of responsibility and planning, but it is rewarding to see our school come together for something good.”

With the success of the fall drive, the SOS Ministry of Hunger plans to partner with the Emergency Aid Coalition in the spring, continuing to expand the school’s commitment to service and ensuring that students remain active participants in supporting Houston families in need.

Slice of π

LILY PARSAPOUR Guest Writer

Hello everyone, I’m Lily Parsapour, and it has been an honor to be a part of the Math Club and serve as club competition coordinator over the past couple of months. Our Math Club members have done such a great job this fall at being amazing problem solvers.

Congratulations to our Math Madness mathletes who were undefeated for seven weeks in the national bracket competition! We still have many upcoming competi-

tions this year to continue our path to mathematical excellence, like the January U of H competition, the Strogatz Prize for Math Communication, and many more.

If you are not yet a member of Math Club and are interested in being one and partaking in competitions, please don’t be afraid to spread your wings, math fledglings, and contact Dr. P and Math Club President Jenna Li so you can be added to Microsoft TEAMS to be up to date. With that being said, I hope you all have an amazing holiday break full of math and a magnificent start to the new year!

Fall dance Dimensions showcases student talent

BENTLEY BEICH Staff Writer

Episcopal’s annual fall dance concert, Dimensions, lit up the Underwood Theatre on Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, bringing together months of hard work, artistry, and dedication from dancers across the program.

With performers from Impact, Elevate, Repertory, and Advanced Dance, this year’s show featured eleven pieces. Each dance highlighted the creativity of the choreographers and the strength of the dancers.

The process began all the way back in August, when students auditioned by performing three different combinations. Once the teams were set, rehearsals started immediately. Practices were held multiple times a week, every day or every other day, depending on how many dances each student was in.

“It’s definitely a long process,” Impact dancer Lauren Young shared, “but it’s so worth it to perform for our family and see our friends show up for us.”

After months of rehearsals, the dancers entered Tech Week, the busiest part of the entire process. During the week before Thanksgiving, students tried on costumes, perfected transitions, and worked with lighting to bring each piece to life on stage. The following week, they completed full dress rehearsals, running every act exactly as it would be performed in front of an audience.

What made this year’s fall concert especially meaningful wasn’t just the polished choreography or dynamic music choices from Dance Coordinator Ms. Karen Pfeifer and dance teacher Ms. Lexi Blake, it was the amount of effort all the dancers put in for each other.

“The fall dance concert is always so fun because we get to do what we love and have fun showing our work to the rest of the school,” Impact dancer Jordan Young said.

While many performers were sad to see the fall concert come to an end, excitement is already building. The Spring Dance Concert auditions begin soon, with student-dances choreographed dances.

Episcopal television presents its annual ETV fall episode

ANYA PANT Co-Editor in Chief

Episcopal’s unique course offering Episcopal Television (ETV) allows students interested in filmmaking and animation to apply their skills in an advanced classroom environment. Every year, ETV students spend their semesters filming, editing, and starring in each other’s movies, which are then presented at the fall and spring ETV shows.

ETV functions more like a professional studio than a traditional high school class. Students take on specialized roles ranging from cinematography and screenwriting to sound design and post-production editing. The environment mirrors real-world film production, challenging students to push themselves in all areas.

The ETV fall show happened on December 8 at 4:00pm in Underwood Theatre. The ETV students collaborated throughout the fall semester to create the

movies featured in the show. The class is taught by Mr. Pejman Milani, whose favorite part of the show is that “[he] is excited to showcase a variety of films and talent of the filmmakers to the school.”

As the producer of ETV, senior Sofia Kennedy has a unique perspective on the filmmaking process. As producer, she oversees the entire filming and editing process for all the students in the class. She shares, “ETV is a fun, creative environment where we get to explore a variety of mediums and our own ideas. The process usually begins with writing a screenplay, casting actors, planning shots, filming, and then editing. Though it’s time-consuming and challenging, I love it. The community is supportive and it’s a great way to create something beautiful.”

Whether you were in the mood to watch comedy, football edits, or even Lego movies, the ETV fall show provided a unique lineup of student films, where everybody can find something they connect with.

Relax and Review Week helps students destress during midterms

HIMALI WICKRAMASINGHE Staff Writer

Jingle bells! Jingle bells! The holidays are here, with the sweet scents of cinnamon and peppermint floating through the air, bright colorful lights on every street you turn on, and holiday music playing in every grocery store. That means we are getting closer to winter break; however, that also means that everyone’s worst nightmare is just around the corner, the nightmare known as midterms.

The week before midterms can feel extremely stressful and annoying for everyone. Christmas is near, but there are a few exams standing between you and your winter break. But never fear, to reduce midterm stress and bring a little bit of holiday cheer to EHS, STUCO is arranging Relax and Review Week.

Relax and Review Week is a special, annual week dedicated to fun and midterm

preparation. STUCO arranges a variety of fun activities such as cookie decorating, a hot cocoa bar, candy cane distribution, ornament decorating, and a YouTube fireplace during lunch with popcorn. This week is also designed to bring the community closer together, which is really important, especially when the holidays are all about being together.

Relax and Review Week is also a great time to reflect on your current academic performance and to figure out how to improve for the next semester.

During this week, it is extremely important to take ownership of your learning by utilizing tutorial times and making sure you are getting all your questions and concerns addressed by your teachers.

Congratulations, you have already conquered the first half of the year. Make sure you are doing everything you can to finish strong so that you can start the next semester strong.

Holiday traditions around the world bring comfort

LAYLA WHITE Staff Writer

As the holiday season gets closer, students and families throughout EHS start getting ready to enjoy their favorite traditions. These yearly routines might seem simple, but they bring people together and help them appreciate the spirit of the season.

One tradition many students enjoy is decorating. Families put up colorful lights, wreaths, and ornaments to make their homes look festive. A lot of students say decorating is their favorite part because it makes everything feel brighter and more cheerful. Others look forward to baking holiday treats like cookies or pies. The smell of baking tends to fill the house and make everyone feel cozy. Another big part of the holidays is gift-giving. Even though getting presents is fun, it can be even more enjoyable choosing and sharing gifts for family and friends. Secret Santa events at school or in clubs make it extra

courtesy of www.unitedlanguagegroup.com.

exciting since you never know who might be giving you a gift. Volunteering is also a meaningful tradition for many families; most even donate food or warm clothes, while others help out at local charities. Giving back can make the holiday season feel more important and reminds them to think about others who might need support.

EHS is diverse, full of different cultures, so students celebrate a variety of holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas.

Each holiday has its own special customs, from lighting candles to sharing traditional foods, and learning about these traditions helps us understand one another better.

Even though everyone celebrates differently, holiday traditions help people slow down and connect with those they care for. Whether it’s decorating, cooking, giving gifts, or volunteering, these traditions bring joy to communities and help make the time of year that much more special.

Image courtesy of https://llamitasspanish.com.

English Honors students take on Junior Research

BENTLEY BEICH Staff Writer

Each fall, some members of Episcopal’s Junior Class take on one of the most demanding and memorable academic traditions of their high school career: Junior Research. Often described as a “rite of passage” at EHS, this project stretches across the entire first semester—and for some, the second—and challenges students to think critically, write deeply, and manage a major workload with independence.

For these Honors students, Junior Research makes up 15% of their semester grade, adding even more weight to the already intense expectations. But the process begins long before junior year officially starts.

Before the end of sophomore year, Mr. Mark Mitchell and Dr. Brad Telford assign each student a unique pair of books based on the student’s preferences. Students are expected to read one novel over the summer and the other in the first few weeks of school.

This helps the process move more quickly so they can dive immediately into analysis. With the variety of books students receive, the combinations of themes, styles, and literary elements are what make this process so special.

The final paper is around 10 to 12 pages, in which students compare and contrast their assigned texts. They look closely at characterization, symbolism, setting, point of view, and structural choices. They must also craft a creative, original title that reflects the ideas in their work.

Throughout the semester, students gather 25 quotes from each book and write thoughtful responses to build their early analysis. They also complete author research, style analysis, and annotated bibliographies to support them later when writing the paper.

Junior Daria Massey shares her experience with writing her junior research paper. “It was a rewarding experience to see the work we have been doing all year come together in my paper.”

By December 5, Honors students are to print out and turn in their final essay in person, followed by a celebration of all their hard work.

While the process is long, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming, it is also one of the most rewarding academic experiences at Episcopal. Juniors come out of it stronger writers, sharper thinkers, and more confident students.

College counseling prepares underclassmen with Summer Programs talk

CLAYTON COX

Staff Writer

The college counseling office recently hosted a meeting to discuss Summer Programs with parents. During the meeting, a counselor described the program as a way for students to “serve their community or travel beyond the Houston area.” Needless to say, Summer Programs are a fantastic way for students to put themselves out there.

Internships and job opportunities can go a long way with colleges. Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, and Episcopal is able to take advantage of

the plethora of connections and resources. Through the college programs that Episcopal offers, students can access both specific and broad fields of study.

Mrs. Katie Samson is the Director of Service Learning at EHS, and she has been essential to Episcopal’s access to some of these opportunities.

Parents can email Mrs. Samson to help students find something they are interested in or help them achieve a goal over the summer. Service opportunities are always available, ranging from those in Texas to organizations that work in Costa Rica or Europe. In the past, there have even been Spanish immersion trips to Spain, which

will hopefully make a return in the future.

While many students and parents assume that colleges want to see superexclusive internships with big-name companies, the Summer Programs presenters made it clear that colleges prefer students who show up consistently, even if it is at a local business.

The teachers also made it clear that “you should never underestimate the importance of just going out and finding a regular job during the summer.”

Summer school is another excellent program for students, as there are no real downsides to taking a class before school starts. The classes also provide great flex-

ibility to students.

For freshmen, the teachers recommend waiting before getting too involved, but for sophomores and juniors, starting early is always better than later.

CLAYTON COX Staff Writer

Houston is the home of many of the best restaurants. Wherever you go in the city or in the suburbs, the food culture flourishes, and the city excels when it comes to Tex- Mex. Restaurants like Escalante’s, Candente, and Goode Company are among some of the best and most popular Tex-Mex places around town. However, Houston’s food culture goes beyond its deep Southern roots. In this month’s Bon Appétit, I am honored to present Kiran’s, an Indian restaurant in the heart of Houston.

Kiran’s beautiful blend of traditional Indian dining and modern chefs contributes to the unique identity the restaurant has created for itself. The environment is always open and inviting, as there is never a time when nearly every table is

occupied. It is a great place to bring both whole families and smaller groups. The diverse menu allows for favorites you can always come back to and the potential for something new.

Some of my favorite meals from Kiran’s are the lamb kebab, calamari, Delhi chaat, dal pancham, chicken madras, chicken tikka masala, and the tandoori salmon.

Despite the large family dining found inside, the spaces are always kept clean and sanitary. Every time I go, I am completely in awe of how the kitchen surprises me again and again. The restaurant has primarily a dinner menu; however, you can visit for afternoon tea. The style is a four-course customizable meal that finds the perfect balance between too much and too little food.

I would recommend this restaurant to anyone who asks about Houston meals, and it has quickly risen to the top of my favorite restaurants ever.

ALL THINGZ fashion

DARIA MASSEY Production Editor

Talk around the October Louvre jewelry heist has finally settled down, but I’m still not over the “fedora man.” You’ve probably seen the photo: a rather dapper young man in a fedora in front of three police officers outside the museum. The image exploded online within days, and many people jumped to the conclusion that he’d been hired to investigate the heist. It was too perfect—straight out of a Sherlock Holmes novel or a 1940s crime film.

Weeks passed, and the so-called detective’s identity remained a mystery. Eventually, the truth surfaced: he was not a detective at all, but 15-year-old Pedro

Elias Garzon Delvaux from Rambouillet, France. He told the Associated Press that he had been completely unaware of the heist and he had simply come to visit the Louvre with his family.

Pedro is, frankly, a class act. I couldn’t help but applaud his sophisticated style. He wore his father’s Yves Saint Laurent waistcoat, a restored Russian watch, and of course, that striking fedora. Pedro shared that he does in fact find inspiration from the 1940s and from fictional detectives—an influence that clearly suits him.

My favorite part about the story is when asked why he chose to dress this way for a museum visit, he replied, “I like to be chic,” even adding that he goes to school in the same fashion. I think we should all aspire to be as stylish as Pedro.

Welcome back to Book Nook! Today, I present you with a timeless classic from the Victorian era. Jane Eyre, by English writer Charlotte Brontë, was published in 1847, under the pseudonym Currer Bell. The novel follows the story of a young orphan named Jane Eyre and her journey. The story begins with Jane’s abusive life at Gateshead, where she lives with her cousins and her aunt. Eventually, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield where she must tutor a young girl named Adele Varens. While at Thornfield, Jane meets Adele’s adopted father, Mr. Rochester, and falls in love with him.

costumes, large and colorful sets, and creative projection work that helps bring Clara’s dreamlike world to the stage.

From its dreary tone to eerie elements, this novel skillfully encapsulates the gothic culture that made this era truly one of a kind. However, what makes this novel truly unique is that in some ways, it challenges many of the societal norms by presenting Jane as a poor, yet independent, headstrong young woman, who acts on what she believes is right despite what society thinks.

While this novel is over a hundred years old, it is still read and enjoyed by many people today. With its insane plot twists, dynamic characters, and unique story line, the piece is truly worth reading, and once you pick it up, you will never be able to put it down. It is the kind of novel that makes you want more and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Brace yourself for plenty of “what the heck” moments and surprises.

Houston Ballet brings the city together every winter with its production of The Nutcracker, a show that has become one of the most important holiday events in Houston. Performed at the Wortham Theater Center, the ballet features the work of Stanton Welch, the company’s artistic director. Welch created this version in 2016, and it has quickly grown into a favorite for families who return year after year.

Stanton Welch is known around the world for his imaginative choreography and for the many works he has created throughout his career. He joined Houston Ballet in 2003, and has helped shape the company into one of the largest and most admired ballet institutions in the United States.

His Nutcracker reflects his vivid storytelling and bold visual design. The production includes hundreds of detailed

The music is written by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. His score is loved for its emotional power and its memorable melodies. Houston Ballet performs it with a full orchestra, which adds to the excitement of the live performance and gives the show a rich and warm atmosphere.

The Nutcracker is also important to Houston Ballet because it allows dancers of different ages and levels to appear together. Students from the Houston Ballet Academy join the professional company, giving young dancers the chance to perform in a major production. This teamwork reflects the company’s commitment to training new artists and keeping ballet alive for future generations.

With its combination of artistry, tradition, and community involvement, Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker continues to stand out as a highlight of the season.

Hear me Out

with Caroline Johnson

to solidify its classic, unified sound: Moreno’s iconic screaming, loud drum tracks, angelic background vocals. This is where Deftones became Deftones.

With its roots in the 1980s California metal scene, Deftones has grown into one of the most popular alternative bands of all time. Their newest release, an album entitled private music, debuted a new sound for the band, showing the group’s attempt to modernize its music as they age.

The band’s first studio album, Adrenaline (1995), gained mass attention. This was in part due to its hit song “7 Words” and to its nu metal sound, fitting with the time’s prevalent genre. Fans clung to “7 Words,” appreciating Chino Moreno’s unique vocals and Stephen Carpenter’s guitar grungy tracks.

Another standout piece from this release has to be “Engine No. 9.” It’s opening guitar riff certainly grabs your attention, sounding almost Metallica-esque. However, it is the next album, Around the Fur, that takes the cake for me. Since its iconic release on MTV in 1997, it has largely been recognized as one of Deftones’ biggest successes. Much like other listeners, my favorite songs from this album include “My Own Summer (Shove It),” “Mascara,” and “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away),” although “Lotion” is worth a listen as well. Here is where the band started

By the early 2000s, group members had become a solid unit—household names in the alt rock genre, though they almost flat-lined until the drop of “Change (In the House of Flies),” widely considered to be one of the best alternative songs of all time. I would agree with this statement. The almost chilling lyrics “I look at the cross/Then I look away” wow me every time. Listening to “Change (In the House of Flies)” is an emotional experience.

This year, Deftones released its first album in over five years: private music As the band’s tenth studio release, Moreno wanted the drop to showcase the band’s growth. “souvenir” and “milk of the madonna” are the most memorable tracks from private music, but neither are nearly as memorable as their older music. The songs take on a more ethereal tone, more synth in the background and lighter vocals. Is it bad? No, but is it the band’s best yet? I say not. The attempt to stay modern distanced Deftones from its roots in its grungy, nu metal beginnings.

For Christmas, I ask Deftones to “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” by trying out its old sound again in the new year.

A1 Cinema

movie. It seemed as though every occurrence in the movie existed only to move the plot along and not affect the characters very much.

Adapting the story of the Wicked stage play to film is in no way an easy task, but while the first Wicked film delivered, Wicked: For Good falls flat and is a total deviation from its predecessor.

Although this movie may have been a waste of the story’s potential on the stage, it is chalk full of amazing performances. Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Johna-

than Bailey all shine through with their acting and singing skills - easily a highlight of the film. It is especially impressive considering what little they had to work with. This was my biggest problem with Wicked; its writing did not hold up from the first to second film. Wicked: For Good deals with significantly darker themes than the first one, as the characters are dealing with the corrupt Wizard in Oz. However, the film doesn’t wholly expand on any of the themes that were presented in the first movie or the new ideas that are presented by the events of the second

Christmas movies brings families together

Every year, people watch certain Christmas movies because they are fun, memorable, and full of holiday spirit. These films have lasted for decades because they are stories that continue to connect with audiences.

One of my personal favorites is Home Alone (1990). The film tells the story of Kevin McCallister, a young boy accidentally left alone at home while his family goes on vacation. Kevin must defend his house from two burglars, and the film mixes clever comedy with moments that highlight the importance of family.

Another great movie is Elf (2003), which follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who travels to New York City to find his real family. Will Ferrell’s performance brings humor and energy, but the movie also emphasizes kindness, generosity, and the joy of spreading holiday cheer.

Animated classics remain popular as well. My favorite animated film is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) because not only is it nostalgic, but it also tells the story of a reindeer who is differ-

ent from the rest. Despite being bullied, Rudolph proves his worth by helping Santa, telling a story about courage, acceptance, and finding one’s place.

The classic film How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) adapts Dr. Seuss’ tale of the Grinch, who initially hates Christmas and tries to ruin it for the town of Whoville. The story ultimately shows that the

true meaning of the season lies in connection and generosity rather than gifts or decorations.

These films continue to be enjoyed year after year because they are timeless. Families look forward to this time of year. They remind viewers why these stories remain relevant and why revisiting them is a holiday tradition for so many families.

Aside from the less than stellar writing, there are still positive aspects of Wicked that carry on to Wicked: For Good. The sets, costumes, and general design were one of my favorite parts of this movie. So, even if Wicked: For Good didn’t make my year in films, there’s still more than enough to love in this movie.

The long awaited Stranger Things Season 5 drops

The final season of Netflix’s original hit Stranger Things debuted the first part of its fifth season on November 26 and has already made its mark as a groundbreaking final season for Netflix’s second most watched program of all time. I was very excited for this final season to say the least, and the first part of the final season delivered big time.

One thing I was unsure about was Will’s story. His story also takes a turn in Season Four when we begin to explore his LGBTQ identity. Will’s new, more prominent role gives more credit to his character as the inciting character for the events of the show. Another key moment is the reintroduction of Kali Prasaad or 8, who was another child experimented on in Hawkins’ lab. She appeared in Season Two and was a least favorite of critics and audiences. Her reimplementation into the series was a cheap way to add more characters and create an even more complicated plot.

This is part of a larger problem I have with Stranger Things - there are too many characters. This season introduced two new characters: Derek and Holly Wheeler. I do enjoy Holly and Derek as characters, but their storylines don’t give room for other characters to breathe and grow. Although Stranger Things does a good job at showcasing most characters fully, they aren’t making the full impact they could.

The show’s second part will debut on Christmas Day, and its final part will debut on New Years Day.

AI challenges the level of human technical skills in the work force

DARIA MASSEY Production Editor

What careers are truly safe in the face of artificial intelligence? It’s a global concern, particularly among students deciding whether their college major will still be valuable by the time they graduate. The truth is, every profession is about to change more in the next ten years than it has in the last fifty.

So, if AI can generate an entire stock report and file your U.S. tax return within minutes, what does that mean for the future of accountants? And if AI can write an article in that same amount of time, what does that mean for the future of journalists? The question applies to every profession as each role is being reshaped by AI tools. Despite how it may sound, AI isn’t necessarily replacing these professions— it’s transforming them. Our educational system needs to better prepare students for the truth that AI will redefine every major from business to liberal arts. Students who are willing to adapt to this new reality will thrive.

The real threat isn’t AI itself - it’s our increasing reliance on it to think for us. Critical thinking remains a very valuable skill, and employers still render it important. People need to continue to develop skills AI cannot replicate qualities such as judgement, creativity, and ethics. AI’s capabilities will lead businesses to search for people who can use it productively without becoming dependent on it.

This transformation affects not only technical fields but also the humanities, where the value of critical thinking may become even more apparent. In the past, there has been a drastic decline in liberal arts majors. Many students tend to opt for business degrees with the hope of being promised a more profitable career. Jessica Stillman, an opinions writer for Inc., argues that rather than rendering liberal arts and critical thinking obsolete, AI could increase the demand for people who can contextualize and apply information. CEO of Standard Chartered, Bill Winters, has expressed how he has found far more value in his undergrad degree in international relations from Colgate than his MBA from Wharton.

“The technical skills are being provided by the machine, or by very competent people in other parts of the world who have really nailed the technical skills at a relatively low cost. I’m going to go back to curiosity and empathy. Really, really understand the audience that you’re dealing with and anticipate those needs beforehand,” Winters shares (The Rise of AI).

He underscores that the human ability to analyze, empathize, and anticipate needs truly contradict the way AI handles technical tasks.

So, as AI continues to alter professions, both students and educators should start focusing on cultivating the authentic human skills that AI cannot imitate. If people prioritize this, we can ensure a future where technology enhances our capabilities rather than diminishes them.

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor in Chief

Hot chocolate, Christmas songs, candy canes, and more. When we were younger, the holidays felt like magic. Not because we got the fanciest toys on the market but because the whole world seemed to transform. The streets were lit up with lights, houses smelled like warm cookies, and school felt different. The season had a rhythm of wonder that didn’t need to be manufactured. Somewhere along the line, the magic changed.

Today, the holiday season feels less like a celebration and more like a production. Decorations line stores before Halloween candy goes on clearance, and commercials promise the “perfect Christmas” if you buy a business’ product. It becomes less a holiday and more an exhausting performance. Christmas, especially, has been transformed into commercialized joy and what I call “Corporate Christmas.” Companies push a single image of what the holidays should look like, and it rarely resembles the chaotic and imperfect experiences most families live.

The idea of the ideal Christmas is sold to us as universal. It’s something that families try to attain. But it’s not. For many families struggling financially, the pressure to create that picture-perfect holiday is overwhelming. It’s hard to feel festive when you’re managing the bills to ensure your child can have at least one gift they asked for. Corporate holiday culture ignores reallife cirucumstances, insisting that if you’re not meeting its standards, you’re falling short.

No wonder the holidays don’t feel the same as they did when we were children. We’ve been handed unrealistic expectations and told to mold our lives around them. The joy becomes something to manufacture instead of something to simply be

Despite this, something unique has happened in recent years: people have begun clinging to the feelings associated with the season rather than the holiday itself. As the world grows heavier, the holidays have become an emotional refuge. Stores play Christmas songs earlier not only for profit but because people crave comfort. Holiday events draw crowds because of the connection it brings in a time that can be lonely.

In this kindness, donations and volunteering spike. Food banks overflow only to struggle in January. Generosity spikes around the holidays, showing both the beauty of the season and how narrowly society limits compassion.

Maybe the holidays don’t feel like they did when we were young because we’re not the same. Childhood magic can’t be recreated, but adult magic can be rediscovered. Let’s not fight the holiday feeling but spread it. And spread it year round. Choose small, sustainable acts of community rather than waiting for the calendar to give you permission.

If we remove the pressure of December to fill our long-awaited expectations, maybe the holiday season might finally feel lighter. If we stop chasing the perfect holiday, we might finally appreciate the imperfect one in front of us. And honestly, that feels pretty close to magic.

Time: An illusion or product of human invention?

MIMI WRIGHT Opinions Editor

Time rules almost everything we do. We plan our mornings around it, and we measure our whole lives with it. Even though time feels natural, many scientists and writers argue that it might be more of an illusion than a physical thing. Some experts explain that people shaped time in ways that do not always match nature. Time zones are one of the strongest examples of how much humans control the way time works. Many assume that time is fixed, but the way societies change and adjust it shows that humans have more influence over time than we often realize.

Time zones began in the 1800s after trains created new problems. Towns used to set their clocks by the sun, so every place had its own idea of what noon was. In Patrick J. Kiger’s article, one expert explained the confusion by saying that “people were missing trains.” Railroads needed a shared system, so in 1883 the United States created four main time zones. This moment showed that time was something people could rearrange whenever society needed it.

Different countries use time zones differently, which shows how flexible time can be. China is as wide as the United States, but it uses only one official time. Geography professor Stanley Brunn said that people in the far west live “three or four hours off of local solar time.” They wake up in darkness and sometimes eat dinner while the sun is still shining. This proves that the clock does not always match the natural world. Some people in China even curate their schedules to feel more in sync with the sun, revealing daylight’s importance. The United States uses several time zones instead. This can be confusing when traveling, but it lines up daily life with daylight more closely.

There are positive effects to time zones. They help schools and businesses stay on predictable schedules. They keep people’s routines connected to sunlight, which supports healthier sleep patterns. Without time zones, the clock number would stay the same everywhere. This might sound simple, but morning in one place could be the middle of the night in another, even though the clocks match.

Some experts think the world could function with one single time. Steve Hanke says that one global clock would mean “endless confusion would be gone forever.” In this system, everyone would adjust only their work hours based on the sun. For example, the clock might say something unusual compared to what we use now, but daily life would stay the same since communities would choose hours that match their daylight. This idea shows that humans have the power to reshape time whenever they want.

The deeper question is whether time is real or something humans created to organize life. James Hardy’s article explains that the universe runs on natural cycles like the rising of the sun and the orbit of the Earth. Humans did not invent those patterns. What humans created were the systems that measure them. Time is not something we can touch. It is a concept that helps us understand change.

Time feels tangible, but time zones prove how easily people can rewrite it. Whether we keep them or replace them with one world clock, our experience of time will always depend on human decisions.

Soccer season kicks off with a victory against Village School

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor-in-Chief

The Episcopal boys soccer team has kicked off its season with a strong start, coming off a 2-1 victory against The Village School in November. The team was scheduled to play St. Thomas Episcopal on November 19, but the game was cancelled. For December, they faced the Village School again (3-0), Bellaire High School at home ,and Parish Episcopal School in Dallas.

Sebastian Guerra was the MVP of the Village matchup and scored a brace. The team held possession of the ball 69.9% of the time compared to 30.1% that The Village School did. They took 13 shots and seven corners while TVS took two shots and two corners. EHS had a whop-

ping pass success rate of 90%, keeping TVS at a 50% pass success rate. Episcopal made 511 passes and Village made 105. The team’s defense stood out, keeping Village at one goal while the offense jumped ahead to score two goals for a Knights victory. While this was only the boys first game of the season, they want to see this performance, if not better, going forward as they chase a chance to compete in the championship in February for a four-peat of the SPC title.

Strong senior leadership shines through the team, with a majority of the senior group starting on varsity since their freshman year.

Senior captain Richard Yeboah said, “It’s been a great start to the season. The boys are looking ready and sharp. Make sure to come out to catch a game! Go Knights!”

Boys soar with an undefeated record

LAYLA

WHITE Staff Writer

The EHS varsity boys basketball team is off to an impressive start this year, beginning the season with a perfect record. Head Coach Wayne Jones says he’s pleased with how the team has opened the season, especially considering their tough schedule.

“The team is off to a great start! We are currently sitting at 6-0 for the season while playing some competitive public teams,” he shared.

Coach Jones explained that one of the biggest improvements so far has been how well the players work together.

“The team is really sharing the ball and playing ‘our way’ for 32 minutes. This group has really bonded on and off the court,” he said.

Their teamwork has helped them stay focused and play consistently in every game. Several players have stood out early in the season, both as leaders and key contributors.

“Reid Sasser, Alim Olajuwon, Caleb

Clay, and Nyle Harrison have been early key contributors to the effort,” Jones said. But he also emphasized that the team’s strength comes from everyone being ready to step up.

“With that being said, any of our guys can and have stepped up in crucial moments.”

The team is now preparing for one of the biggest challenges on their schedule: the Jack Frost Invitational in Georgetown, Texas.

“It is one of the most competitive tournaments in the state,” Coach Jones explained. “We will be battle tested in that tournament.”

The event will give the team a chance to prove themselves against strong opponents and see how they measure up.

Looking ahead, Coach Jones says the main goal remains steady improvement.

“We want our guys to continue to grow and get better on a daily basis,” he said.

For the Knights, the focus isn’t just on the final record, but on becoming better athletes, better teammates, and a stronger unit each time they step on the court.

Girls basketball shows resilience

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

The girls varsity basketball team has battled through a very challenging opening stretch to the season, facing several strong 5A and 6A programs that have pushed them early. Although the record reflects a tough start, the team has remained steady and resilient, consistently showing up to every practice and game with determination and focus.

This demanding pre-SPC schedule was designed intentionally to expose the team to high-level competition. By playing tough opponents early, the girls have been able to identify weaknesses, correct recurring mistakes, and build team chemistry that will serve them in conference play. Head Coach Chelsea Bass emphasized growth and preparation during this phase of the season, and the team embraced that mindset to the fullest.

Throughout the highs and lows, one constant has been the team’s attitude. The girls’ energy in games and practices has stayed strong, and they have responded well to coaching, even when the adjustments seemed too tough. Their commitment to improvement and willingness to be pushed continue to set the tone for the season.

The team’s biggest games, against Sec-

Girls guard with powerful defense

LIZ BURKE Social Media Coordinator

Episcopal High School’s varsity girls soccer team has started the season with strong and consistent results. Through the first three games, the Knights have recorded two wins and one tie. They have scored six goals and have not allowed a single goal, giving them an undefeated record and a solid defensive start.

The team’s first game was on November 15 with a 3-0 home win over St. Joseph’s. Episcopal followed that performance with another 3-0 home victory over St. Agnes Academy on November 20. Both matches showed the team’s ability to control the field and finish scoring opportunities. Their most recent game was on December 2, when they traveled to face Bishop Lynch High School. That match ended in

a 0-0 tie.

Senior Mia Hodgson shared her thoughts on the season so far. She said, “The team has been working hard for months and that it is exciting to see that work appear in actual games. This group has built a competitive and supportive environment that helps everyone improve each day. The main team goal this year is to win an SPC championship and keep winning.”

Hodgson also pointed out two players who have made an early impact. She mentioned senior Ryan Fox, who she described as intense, disciplined, and one who keeps standards high. She also highlighted sophomore Tayla Gordon, who has shown composure on the back line and steady improvement. With an undefeated record, Episcopal enters the rest of the season with momentum and confidence.

Swim and dive brings home

gold

ond Baptist, a 39-35 loss, and St. Agnes, offered important benchmarks. In the St. Agnes game, Rylee Poindexter’s 20-point performance and Jazzy Jones’s clutch defensive stand helped EHS secure their win. The team’s grit on both ends sealed a hard-fought 50-44 win. In both games, the girls demonstrated noticeable growth, competing with increased confidence and better play execution on both offense and defense. While the outcomes were mixed, the progress was unmistakable, and the team left each matchup with strong progress.

As SPC play approaches, the foundation built during the early season continues to propel the group forward. Their resilience, work ethic, and steady improvement suggest that the toughest games may already be behind them.

PAIGE PAN Features Editor

The Episcopal High School swim team opened its 2025–26 season with two competitive November meets, setting a strong early tone on both the boys’ and girls’ sides. Their first meet was at the Private School Invitational hosted by Strake Jesuit on November 11, where Episcopal faced several powerhouse private school programs and still secured top-four finishes for both teams.

The girls, led by senior Taylor Morris, placed fourth. Morris won two events and finished seventh overall in the girls’ high-point standings, giving Episcopal its two individual golds on the women’s side. Episcopal also earned two top-ten finishes in the 100 freestyle, with Ryan Lyda plac-

ing seventh (58.08) and Mallory Mailhes close behind in eighth (58.11).

The boys also finished fourth, largely behind a dominant showing from junior Grant Evans. Evans won both the 100 butterfly (54.45) and 200 freestyle (1:52.90), performances that placed him third in the boys’ overall high-point rankings and set two new SPC records. His wins contributed nearly half of Episcopal’s total points and marked him as one of the strongest swimmers across the entire meet.

Four days later, Episcopal competed at the HCYA November Invite on November 15, competing in a large mixed field of high school, club, and middle school programs. The Episcopal girls finished thirteenth, led by Mailhes, who ranked nineteenth. On the boys’ side, the Knights took eighth place, with junior Max Fertman leading the team, placing twentieth.

Wrestling battles to early success

CHARLOTTE MEHNERT Copy Editor

The wrestling team finished the month of December with a 1-1 record in duals. They had a dominant win over Klein Forest 42-12 but unfortunately lost in a close battle to George Ranch 42-36. Throughout these duals, there were multiple athletes that stood out and gave extremely impressive results.

Senior team captain Thomas Dunlap led his team with a 9-1 record. With his consistency and skill, he placed first in one tournament and fifth in another. Henry Zamorano also stood out. Th sophomore made an early impact in the season with a

5-2 record. He finished first and fourth in the same events, providing crucial points for the team.

Junior team captain Deacon Morgan contributed to his team with a 4-3 record. He had a second- and third-place finish in the tournaments.

James Brennan remains undefeated. His record is 2-0 as he secured a fourth-place finish following an illegal slam requiring a medical forfeit due to concussion protocol.

They had a meet on December 10 at home. They played Clearfalls and Bellaire. The team was victorious, winning 44-27 against both teams. Many supporters showed up to support the great win!

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