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Get To Know Class Of 2026 Prom Candidates

Get To Know Class Of 2026 Prom Candidates

Candidates Share Memories, Information
Isaac Boyce
Isaac Boyce

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Mr. Brightside,” by The Killers

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I am in band at Staley, Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra, NHS, and I am an instructor for Tae Kwon Do.

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Don’t be ashamed of what you’re a part of.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Leaving the country and auditioning for Drum Corps International

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a doctor because of my dad.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

My plans are to go to Mizzou with one of my best friends and study chemical engineering.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My brother is the person who inspires me. I have always looked up to him, and I try to be as good as a person as he is.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

One of my favorite high school memories playing in the rain at UCM for a band competition my sophomore year.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

My most memorable staff member is probably Mrs. Perry. I chose her because I have had her every year of high school, and I think it’s funny that she has had to deal with me all four years.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

My favorite tradition is getting Taco Bell after all-state auditions every year.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

The guy in the white shirt pointing at himself

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Sushi

Isaac Boyce
Madeline Bartsch
Madeline Bartsch

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Ribs,” by Lorde

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I’m involved in DECA, FBLA, NHS and swim!

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

It all works out in the end, and have fun!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Completing the Dwight Crum Pier-to-Pier Swim, a two-mile open ocean race.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An artist.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Attend Vanderbilt University and study architecture.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom. She’s always been my biggest supporter. She works hard, stays strong through everything and inspires me to be the best version of myself.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

My favorite high school memory is all the time I’ve spent with my swim team. From early morning practices to late-night team dinners and all the prank calls in between. This team has made my high school years unforgettable.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. McKinnis. He made physics interesting and engaging.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

The Homecoming Parade

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

“I Just Want to Be Part of Your Symphony,” Dolphins

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Smoothies!

Madeline Bartsch
Aaron Carrasquillo
Aaron Carrasquillo

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“To All of You,” Syd Matters (Life is Strange soundtrack) or “Franklin,” Paramore

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Latino Student Union, National Art Honor Society, Theater (I’ve done crew and cast for Staley’s productions!)

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

You will find your people and find yourself as a result — inwardly and outwardly. It all just takes time.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Exploring the country. We’ve visited 39 states so far. My favorite was a tie between California or New York, my home state.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a firefighter when I grew up.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

My next chapter involves moving to Texas and starting college! My dream is to one day open up my own cafe.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My parents inspire me greatly, as they are such hard workers and are so intelligent and full of wisdom. We have been through so much together, fun and tough times, but no matter what, we smile through it all.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

One of my favorite high school memories was in Ms. Gordon’s class my junior year; we were making biscuits and gravy. We were all absorbed by our own tasks of cooking this dish. Some people were mixing the dry ingredients to make the biscuits; others were frying sausages. We got lost in the moment, sharing jokes and laughing as we mix, fry and stir. Ms. Gordon was walking around the classroom, smiling warmly at our group and helping groups who needed it. Each one worked on their dish; laughing and making their own memories. I never wanted this moment to end.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

It’s definitely a tie between Ms. Goodrich and Mr. Takahashi. I chose Mr. Takahashi because he took my already-existing passion for art and constructively criticized instead of bringing me down like other teachers have in the past. He saw the potential and vision I had for my art pieces and watched my art evolve as my confidence grew. I chose Ms. Goodrich because, like Mr. Takahashi, she and her fellow librarians made the library a safe, welcoming space to be myself. It felt like Ms. Goodrich and I were on this new journey together, as it was both of our first year at Staley in 2023. Mr. Takahashi and Ms. Goodrich both watched me grow from a mute, shy loner to an extroverted, confident and creative senior. Just by being themselves, they made feel at ease without even knowing it.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

My favorite tradition at Staley is during diversity week when we have the tables. Not only do we get to learn about other Falcons’ cultures, but they also give out yummy food samples!!

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

I honestly don’t know! I don’t feel like there’s one that could specifically depict my high school experience.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Spaghetti and meatballs with garlic bread

Aaron Carrasquillo
Victoria Brady
Victoria Brady

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“The Spins,” Mac Miller

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Student Council, Leadership, soccer, flag football, NCAPS, dance

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Stay true to yourself

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Getting to go on a boat ride into Niagara Falls

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a vet.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I plan on going to Arkansas to get an undergraduate in biology along with being in a pre-physician assistant track.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom because she has always always been someone I can go to first and help work out any problems that come up.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

My sophomore year when the flag football team beat the Mexico City team in the last few seconds of the game.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Buhman because he always listens to me talk about random things.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

When you walk the halls of all the previous schools you attended.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

I would describe high school as the “That was legitness” meme.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

A Chipotle-style day

Victoria Brady (Creative Kaylee)
Kyan Crumley
Kyan Crumley

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“One Last Time,” Hamilton

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Choir, theater, tennis, NHS

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

That it’s OK to get out there and try to make friends instead of waiting for them to come to you.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

going to all state choir

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A doctor, and I still do

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I plan on going to UMKC’s six-year program.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

Mr. Rucker. He’s always kind but in a human way and not a teacher way, and it reminds me to be better for me and not for others.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

sophomore year St. Louis tennis sleepover with two of my best friends

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Rucker again. I’ve just been around him for so long and gotten really close with him, so he’s taught me a lot.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

The Alma mater at graduation

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Patrick smiling rainbows in the background

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Caniac combo

Kyan Crumley
Olivia Bransfield
Olivia Bransfield

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Slipping Through My Fingers,” by ABBA

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I am involved in Choir (4 years), Choir Cabinet (3 years), Choir Co-president, National Honor Society Historian, Staley News Social Media Editor/Director, Leadership member, Student Council member and Women’s Empowerment Club member!

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Be the change you want to see in the world. Courage and kindness can make mountains of change in someone’s life. You never know what someone could be going through, so do everything with pure intentions and love!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

I got to travel to New York and perform at Carnegie hall with my favorite people! I’m still so honored and humbled to this day!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An artsy girl! Literally. I wanted to be a singing ballerina who painted in her free time and baked sweet treats for fun.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

After I leave Staley, I plan to attend Mizzou and study pre med in hopes to become a Pediatric Endocrinologist, helping diabetic children like myself!

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

I think just about everyone in my life! I surround myself with people who have qualities I want to carry with me for the rest of my life. My parents and brother are the strongest people I know, my friends will never let you down, and my best friends Lexi and Olivia have shown me what lifelong friendship and love is!

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Doing the musical this year! It was my first time trying something new and as a senior. I was able to become more vulnerable and make amazing friendships!

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

The teacher that is most memorable to me is Mr. Rucker. This is my third year with him as my teacher, and he has helped me grow so much as a singer and as a person. Confidence was never my strong suit, but as time went on and his amazing lessons were taught, I started to believe in myself, and that is something I will never forget!

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Any senior tradition! Being able to have a special moment with my class is so surreal and memorable!

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Lizzo’s Song Promo on her YouTube channel meme

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

A Starbucks grilled cheese would bring happy tears to my eyes.

Olivia Bransfield
Sebastian Esparza-Reynoso
Sebastian Esparza-Reynoso

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Small Worlds,” by Mac Miller

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Boys Tennis, LSU (Latino student Union), Staley News

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Don’t let procrastination get the better of you. Instead, listen to the people who are trying to help you.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Being able to visit multiple countries in Europe

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a Software Developer

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Going to K-State and major in cybersecurity and Computer Science

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

I would probably say my uncle he’s just always been a big role model for me growing up.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Going out to eat with all the guys on the tennis team and having a good time.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mrs. Martin has been my teacher for the past four years, and she has always been there for me whenever I was facing challenges or simply wanted to talk to someone. Her guidance has been instrumental in my decision to pursue computer science and cybersecurity.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Tennis senior night

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

I’d probably say those hamsters that you see on TikTok.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Pho

Sebastian Esparza-Reynoso
Jillian Burks
Jillian Burks

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Ribs,” by Lorde

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Track and Field, NHS, WEC, Wrestling management

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Appreciate every season of life throughout high school, both the good and the bad. A lot of things will change, but that’s how it’s supposed to be!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Getting to ride a boat in front of Niagara Falls and see it up close

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An astrophysicist

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Attend UCM to run track, complete my undergrad in three years, then go to law school

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom because she does so much for us that I often don’t even realize. She always is willing to put everything down to take care of the people around her.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Running with my girls at state for track last year

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mrs. Toney because I’ve known her all four years of high school, and she’s always been a great supporter and person to talk to about school and anything stressing me out.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Our homecoming parade is one of my favorites because it brings the whole community together to recognize every activity in the school and beyond.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

That meme of Jake Gyllenhaal where he is laughing then his serious face is edited over it

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Acai bowl bar

Jillian Burks
Will Hansen
Will Hansen

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Virginia Beach,” by Drake

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Student council, Leadership, Varsity Basketball, National Honor Society

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Take in every moment because it goes by fast.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Hitting a big three in a rivalry basketball game

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An NBA basketball player

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Going to KU to study finance

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

Both of my parents because I see how hard they work for our family.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Decorating hallways for freshman year homecoming.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Coach Will, because I’ve always had a close relationship with him on and off the court, and he has helped me grow in many different ways.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

The Homecoming parade

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

The POV: Memes

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Chicken Wings

Will Hansen
Anna Gordon
Anna Gordon

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Better Together,” by Jack Johnson

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I am involved in: AVID, STTV, Leadership, StuCo, WEC, Girls Tennis.

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Get involved!! I have met some of my best friends through school activities.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Swimming through the Gorda Baths in the British Virgin Islands. The water was so clear, and it was so fun to share this adventure with my family!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a kid I always wanted to be a meteorologist!

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I am attending Missouri State University to pursue Child Life!

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom because she is so intentional with supporting me, and I always am reminded her unconditional love for me.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

One the last day of school every year I have my friends over for a pool party, and I always go all out for the theme. We always play many games, and I love getting to spend that time all together.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

It is so hard to choose just on, but I love Mr. Witherow! He has really helped me not only understand math but has helped support me in all my academics and extracurricular activities. For my tennis senior night he came and cheered me on!!

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Definitely HoCo. I love the parade, assembly, football game, and the dance. (and planning it with StuCo is fun, too!)

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

It would be the meme where the little girl is standing in front of a house burning down grinning. I would choose this meme because many times throughout high school it felt like life was burning down or things were falling apart, but you have to learn how to just smile through the chaos.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Allergy-free food! I have never been able to get food from the lunch room, and I think it would be so amazing if all students like me could be able to eat at school!

Anna Gordon
Sam Hennenfent
Samuel Hennenfent

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“My Eyes,” by Travis Scott

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Captain of the Staley swim team, Vice President of Staley National Honor Society, Member of Staley Spanish Club

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Work hard and continue to dream for things unseen.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

36 ACT, being ranked 1st in the class or cliff-jumping in Costa Rica

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I’ve honestly always wanted to be a doctor, but I definitely dreamt of being a professional basketball player for a while.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I am committed to swim at Duke University where I will be majoring in Biomedical Engineering and pursuing a path to medical school.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My parents because they both try to be the best at whatever they do which inspires me to try and do the same.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Being State Champion in bac- to-back years in the 500 freestyle or painting my chest for the Homecoming/USA football games

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Definitely Profe Maki-Birchler because she has been teaching me since my sophomore year, and I’ve always really enjoyed being in her class. Spanish is probably the subject that has challenged me the most in school, and she makes it very fun.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Homecoming parade or being in the student section at any football/basketball game.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Jordan crying with the trophy

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Chicken Quesadillas

Sam Hennenfent
Charlotte Heckman
Charlotte Heckman

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Kids,” by Current Joys

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I am involved in National Honor Society, Women’s Empowerment Club, Catalyst Scholars, First Priority, theater and International Thespian Society.

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

I would tell my freshman self not to wish high school away and to be present as much as I can. Also, stop waiting until last minute to do everything!!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

The best thing I’ve checked off my bucket list is seeing a live Broadway show in NYC and visiting Boston and Philadelphia.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a kid, I wanted to be an artist, and I loved watching Bob Ross tutorials (still do).

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I plan on going to Truman State University to major in social issue advocacy.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

A person in my life who inspires me is my mom. She is so strong both physically and mentally and has proven time and time again that she can make it through difficult times, and she helps me through my own personal struggles, too. My mom also is the kind of person who will always choose others over herself and will always do everything in her power give help to those who need it. She is strong and resilient, yet gentle and kind, and always knows how to make people laugh.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

One of my favorite high school memories is when I got to go on college tours in Boston with my Catalyst group. We toured places like Harvard, Boston College, Brandeis and Tufts, while also visiting the beach and touring historical sites.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

My most memorable school staff member is our theater teacher, Ms. Mokler. Although this is only her first year, she has been the one to make my senior year the best it could be. She shows up for her students, treats everyone with equal respect and kindness, and she puts on one heck of an amazing show.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

My favorite tradition at Staley is before each play or musical, the entire cast and crew gets together to do what we call “theater prayer and shakedown.” This is such a fun exercise to do together right before we go on stage.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

The one where the guy is blinking in three different frames that for whatever reason is always on the back of a test at least once a year.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Wontons/dumplings/potstickers

Charlotte Heckman
Grant Kesselring
Grant Kesselring

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“The Boys of Summer,” by Don Henley

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Gymnast/Youth gymnastics coach, Epsilon Beta club officer

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Work hard, build good study habits and participate more.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Going to Alaska

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Race car driver

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Study Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My teammate Quentin because he never stopped smiling no matter the circumstance

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Senior Homecoming

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Wilson for making math easy

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Paint wars football games

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

University of Waterloo

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Canes

Grant Kesselring
Ally Kamphefner
Ally Kamphefner

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Savory,” by Jawbox – my favorite song

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I’m involved in Chorale, AP Art, NAHS, and I’m involved in a band outside of school!

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Don’t let what other people think get in the way of what you believe in!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Seeing Deftones live – twice

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A paleontologist

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I plan on going to Maple Woods Community College for something in sales or graphic design.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My Mom. She’s always pushing me to do better, and she truly believes in me.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

I love the field trips I get to go on for choir!

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Probably Mr. Takahashi. He’s always striving for us to reach our full potential and is very sarcastic (in an endearing way!).

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

I love Senior Takeover!

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Not sure, nothing funny about high school.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Fried Rice definitely.

Ally Kamphefner
Brock Painter
Brock Painter

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“September,” by Earth, Wind & Fire (21st night of September)

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Get your assignments done. Don’t procrastinate.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Getting through school.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

artist

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Go to MCC for two years

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My dad because of everything he did it to take care of me and my mom.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Senior year math class with all my friends

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Brent. He’s funny and a really cool guy.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

spirit week

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

This is where I’d put my diploma if I had one yet.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

french toast sticks

Brock Painter
Ava Miles
Ava Miles

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“See A Victory,” by Elevation Worship & “Good Old Days,” by Macklemore ft. Kesha

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Staley Girls Basketball, Girls Flag Football, Nest, NHS, First Priority, NCAPS

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Never water yourself down to fit others’ expectations. God made you in His perfect image not your neighbor or your best friend’s image. He made you the way you are meant to be, so own it girl!

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Getting to play college basketball on a full ride.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A pro basketball player and a coach

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I am going to the University of Lincoln Nebraska to play basketball. I plan on either major in Sports media/ communications to become a sports broadcaster or I will major in education to become a teacher.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom because she has been there for me throughout all of my life. No matter the circumstance she never left and stood there by my side through it all. She has seen the good, bad and ugly, but still choses to show up for me every day. She has laid down everything she can to give me any opportunity so I could be set up in the future. Without my mom, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. She is truly the best mother I could ask for and my best friend through it all.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

The entire 25-26 basketball season and every moment of it I got to make with the girls I will call forever family. Also beating Park Hill South in a sold out, standing-room-only game my junior year.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

The entire coaching staff of our basketball team, Dr. McCoy and Mrs. Thomas. They all have helped with my growth through high school and have showed me lots of support!

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

At football games when we do the “Do It” chant.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

hollup…let her cook

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

a make your own salad or sandwich bar or steak and potatoes

Ava Miles
Amir Pazhoohi
Amir Pazhoohi

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Pursuit of Happiness”

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

NHS, was in soccer

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Cherish high school. It goes by fast.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Going to a Travis Scott concert

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Firefighter

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I want to get my bachelors at UMKC, then get a doctorate in physical therapy from Mizzou.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My brother. He is always working hard, whether it’s his job or school.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Scoring in a heated district game

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Profe Maki-Birchler. She is always understanding of what’s happening in your own life, and she gives the best advice.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

When the seniors trash the school

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

“You talking about me”

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Pizza Rolls

Amir Pazhoohi
Briana Nguyen
Briana Nguyen

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Roommates,” by Malcolm Todd

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Tennis, ECA, Class Act and DECA

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Embarrassment is propaganda and regret is going to haunt you, so do everything you can.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Visiting Vietnam and meeting family.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be the person I thought was monitoring the traffic light camera 24/7.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

To attend MCC for one year to get my Associates, then transfer to Mizzou.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My cousin, Olivia. She is so courageous, and I rarely see anyone taking half of the risks and opportunities that she takes regularly. Olivia is incredibly resilient and truly lives life to the fullest.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Every bus ride, tournament, game and meal out during the tennis season.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mrs. Johnston. She simply made me feel so supported and welcomed. I’m so grateful for her understanding and kindness.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

The Homecoming Parade!

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Tuff baby meme.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Definitely a ramen noodles bar!

Briana Nguyen
Thomas Swafford
Thomas Swafford

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Freaking Out On the Interstate,” by Briston Maroney

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I’m involved in choir.

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Get out of the house and do your work.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Making chamber choir my junior year

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Engineer

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I’m going to Northwest Missouri State and studying mass media.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom and dad. They show me how to be a hard worker.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Going to New York

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Rucker. He made me a better person.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

The football games

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Chicken Little throwing up peace signs

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Add back the pork sandwich

Thomas Swafford
Abigail Ritchie
Abigail Ritchie

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Alright,” Supergrass

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

I am an NAHS Officer and am apart of the Staley Falcon Philharmonia.

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Keep going even if you’re tired or unmotivated. It gets a better, and you’ll thank yourself for it later.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Eventually, it will be to have graduated.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a kid I dreamed of two things when I grew up. I took dance classes and wanted more than anything to be a professional ballet dancer, and I’ve always loved animals and used to want to be a zoologist or vet.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I will be attending MCC for two years and then going on to UMKC to eventually get my masters in finance, minoring in actuarial sciences.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

I am inspired by my older sister Ashley. She is a very strong and independent woman who pushes herself and strives to do the best in every aspect of her life, especially career-wise.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Specifically during my freshmen year, but every time me and my friends would spend the morning before class in a teacher’s room. It was always so much fun hanging out with them before classes and joking around or playing music.

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

The most memorable for me would be Mr. Takahashi. He has been my teacher all four years for six different classes. I feel over those years he has taught so much academically and about being a good person that will stick with me for a very long time.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

I enjoy the chants at the assemblies. I’m also looking forward to senior skip day for a break.

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

Probably the dog looking into a the sun with his eyes closed when I see all the work I have or I finish an assignment.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

I would add chili to the menu.

Abigail Ritchie
Lyla Reeves
Lyla Reeves

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Bad Habit,” by Steve Lacy

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Emeralds, Student Council, DECA

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Believe in yourself because it’ll all work out

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Traveling to Italy

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an astronaut.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

Attend a four-year university to study Nutritional Sciences and continue my dance education.

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

My mom because she’s always my biggest supporter and has shown me how to be strong and to always show kindness.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

Competing at nationals in Florida with the Emeralds

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Lopicka because she has been really supportive of me and my future throughout all of high school.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Dancing on the sidelines during FNL

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

The one where the dog is sitting outside with its eyes closed

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

Hot dogs

Lyla Reeves
Madison Scholdberg
Madison Scholdberg

What is one song that will always remind you of high school?

“Ribs,” by Lorde

What extracurricular and cocurricular activities are you involved in?

Dance, horseback riding, NHS, HOSA

What is one thing you would tell your freshman self?

Definitely to stress less. Something that I’m still working on understanding is that not everything in life is a glass ball that will shatter when it’s dropped. A lot of them are rubber and can survive being dropped.

What is the best thing you’ve checked off your bucket list?

Scuba diving with whale sharks and manta rays.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an astronaut and take a dog to space.

What are your plans after graduating high school?

I am planning on going to K-State to major in biochemistry and then go onto pursue a graduate degree! Go Cats!

Is there a person you know in real life who inspires you? Why?

The person who as always inspired me to be myself and to work hard is my mom. She is so strong, quick witted, and empathetic, and I strive to be like her every day.

What is one of your favorite high school memories?

I volunteered for Parents Night Out one year with some of my friends, and I had a blast working together with everyone to put on a fun holiday night for some kids!

Who is your most memorable school staff member? Why did you choose them?

Mr. Wilson is one of the nerdiest teachers you will ever meet, but has always been there to help me with any problem, math related or personal, that I may have. He also has an impressive knowledge of anything Star Wars.

What’s your favorite tradition at Staley?

Definitely junior year paint wars. I finally got there early enough and had a good amount of paint. Needless to say, me and my friends were walking canvases after that!

If your high school experience were a meme, which one would it be?

The picture of the little girl with an overbite and her two front teeth are showing in an awkward expression.

If you could add one new item to the school lunch menu, what would it be?

A self-serve mac and cheese bar with lots of toppings.

Madison Scholdberg
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