“Good Days,” by SZA
Softball, Swim, Track and Field, StuCo, StuCo Treasurer, Leadership, NHS, Choir
Don’t stress so much. It’s all going to work out, and at the end of the day, it’s all in God’s hands.
My bench, squat and deadlift maxes added together earned me a spot in the 600 pound club.
The best thing I’ve checked off my bucket list is water skiing across the Missouri-Arkansas border.
When I was a kid I wanted to be an elementary school teacher.
I’ll either be playing softball at a small school or going to Mizzou.
My parents. They’ve accomplished a lot and teach me new things every day.
My favorite high school memory is Swim State of my sophomore year.
Mr. Anderson. He’s retired now, but he never failed to come to class and make me smile. I genuinely learned so much from him, and I hope to be as happy with my career as he was.
I enjoy things that make me laugh. I also love learning about the newest trends and the occasional popular TikTok dance I can learn and make with my friends.
Anything Homecoming related. I love being in the parade with softball, going to the game, dressing up for spirit days and going to the dance. I also love that we maintain the tradition of wearing USA to the football game.
“Life’s a Dance,” by John Michael Montgomery
Boy Scouts, Venture Crew, Tennis, Choir
Make sure to do all your work on time.
I’ve flown a helicopter.
Shark diving in Florida
A police officer
I’m going to UCM, and I’m going to major in aviation and do ROTC.
My dad; he’s always doing things for others and helping people whenever he can.
Going to Margaritaville for NHS state conference.
Madame Downey, she’s always there and a very thoughtful teacher.
That I like the outdoors — hunting and fishing.
The big student sections at every sports game
“Where’d All The Time Go?” by Dr. Dog
Theater, Choir, Tennis
Talk to people, and stop worrying so much.
I know how to juggle.
Either zip lining or skiing
A vet
I’m attending Missouri State in the fall to pursue and career in music education.
My mom inspires me because she is a hardworking woman and has taught me how to be independent.
Going to Colorado for choir sophomore year
Mr. Schneider from New Mark. He is the one who helped me realize my passion for music.
I like to crochet, and I like animals.
Emerald City
“Where’d All The Time Go?” by Dr. Dog
Choir, Latino Student Union, Community Service
It goes by really fast and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with everything but it all works out in the end!
I can’t eat gluten. 😎
It has to be hiking in the badlands!
I wanted to be a paleontologist.
I’m going to Drake University to study Health Care Administration and then going to law school after.
It’s my parents; they’ve had a lot of struggles, but they made everything work and have made so many sacrifices for me, which I am extremely grateful for.
Getting to sing “That’s Life” at last year’s Emerald City.
My favorite teacher is Mr. Buck. He’s a great human being and always puts students first, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a rough day and went into his class and my mood was completely flipped.
I want to own a house, buy a golden retriever and visit Greece.
My favorite tradition is freshman first day because it’s slightly embarrassing, so that’s fun.
“Bluebird,” by Cory Wong
Band and NHS
Stop being lazy, and get your work in on time.
I can solve a Rubik’s cube.
Getting accepted into college.
A paleontologist
Go to college to study music.
My grandfather because he is caring and makes sure to live life to the fullest. I hope to be like that and stay positive no matter what happens.
Going to Chicago for band.
Meara Mitchell because she is the person who exposed me to music and has supported me since freshman year.
I like saxophone and shoes.
Pep rally before football games.
“Notion,” by The Rare Occasions
Band, Esports
Just be yourself; don’t change for others.
Probably my tattoos
Bought my own car
A baker
Going go MSU and majoring in plant science
My mom; she’s built a life for herself on her own and shares it with me every day.
Placing top 5 at UCM band competition
Madame Downey. She has always pushed me to be a better version of myself.
That I love story times and music
Stepping out of my marching shoes on senior night
“School’s Out,” by Alice Cooper
Epsilon Beta, Art Club, NHS, FCA, Rugby
Try to be positive. Change can be good.
I’m a triplet.
Winning Internationals with the flag football team.
A Wild Kratt
I plan to attend Missouri State University and major in nursing.
My mom inspires me. She has always made me feel like an individual. She is caring, passionate and hard working.
Spending time with my friends.
Profe Maki-Birchler. She is always encouraging and cares for all her students. I have learned a lot from her as a teacher and a coach.
That I like sports, selfcare and laughing.
I liked going to home football games and senior takeover.
“A Lot,” by 21 Savage
Soccer, Falcon Brigade, Symphonic Band, NCAPS, NHS
Don’t be afraid of change. Challenge yourself, you would be shocked at how much you will grow over the next four years.
Being humble and nice to everyone.
Getting to travel to New York City.
Firefighter
Study chemical engineering at Mizzou and pursue a career in process engineering.
My mom because she will always be there for me, and she pushes me to be the best person possible.
Being a part of the student section at the Staley basketball games.
Dr. Mitchell and retired Dr. Ley because they gave 100% of themselves to their students. You can truly see how much they cared for us.
You would find that I’m into music, sports and enjoy a good laugh.
The Halloween-themed football game.
“Doin’ This,” by Luke Combs
Baseball, Football, StuCo, Leadership, NHS, and The Nest
Never stop trying.
I’m really good under pressure and dealing with adversity.
Committing to a college to play baseball
Major League Baseball Player
Play college baseball
Francisco Lindor because he carries himself very well and is a very successful baseball player.
I almost hit for the cycle in a very exciting game against Fort Zumwalt West on my birthday.
Mrs. Maki-Birchler because she has been a very caring teacher that promotes success for her students.
That I am a sports fan.
Spring baseball trip every spring break.
“Brand New,” by Ben Rector
Choir, managing boys volleyball, tutoring at New Mark and ASU
Change is a good thing; embrace it.
I’m in the Army as a Private First Class, soon to be a Specialist.
Singing a solo in front of a large audience.
Neurosurgeon
Continuing my Army training in South Carolina for two months and then moving to California to attend the University of San Francisco for a degree in Kinesiology.
“My mom.” She’s always been there for me and has taught me a lot that has helped me and will help me as I move onto college in a new environment.
Traveling the Carolinas with Chorale last year. It was a lot of fun, and I made lots of memories with amazing people!
Mr. Spiegel. Even though he’s not at Staley anymore, he made my sophomore chemistry class really enjoyable and comprehendible. His teaching style and class structure impacted how I learn and study today.
I like singing and music making, hopeless romantic posts, and relatable content.
The homecoming parade because it shows the different interests everyone has, and families and friends always have fun watching.
“Cupid,” by FIFTY FIFTY
Orchestra, Tennis, HOSA, TSA, NHS, FCA, Debate, NYO, ASU
Make sure to keep a good balance between work and school, but make sure it’s balanced so you don’t stop doing work entirely.
I own and proudly use a $200 fountain pen.
I started to write with a fountain pen and got more into stationery.
Zoologist
I plan on attending Mizzou and majoring in Microbiology.
Yes, my dad. Since he never fails to make any smile and is always there to support people when they need it, both of which are things I try to do every day.
Procrastinating on assignments for a whole unit and then getting an A on the final projects for the unit.
Mrs. Toney because she tolerates my procrastination and lets me have snacks whenever I need a pick-me-up. She is also very wise in the advice she gives and is a huge reason as to why I make the choices I make for my future.
I love stationery reviews and learning about new pencils and pens that are released. I also watch a lot of movies and tv shows through TikTok.
ASU’s Lunar New Year Decorations or Orchestra’s Spring Concert
“Could Have Been Me,” by the Struts
Soccer, FCA, Flag Football, NHS, Orchestra and StuCo
Talk to more people — it’s not actually that scary!
I was on the drum deck at Arrowhead during a Chiefs – Eagles game.
The best thing I’ve checked off my bucket list is running up the “Rocky” stairs in Philadelphia.
I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was a kid.
I am planning to go to Mizzou on a pre-law track and major in poli-sci.
My mom is probably my biggest inspiration because she is the hardest working person I know and still manages to make time for me and my sister and put our needs above her own every day.
My favorite high school memory is probably going on the orchestra trip last spring break to Los Angeles and Disney Land.
The most memorable staff member at Staley for me has been Profe Maki-Birchler. She always brings so much positive energy to whatever she is doing from Spanish class to Flag Football, and she has been so supportive the last three years I have had her as a teacher and coach.
If you looked at my FYP you would learn that I am a Christian, and I love funny dog videos.
My favorite Staley tradition is riding in the homecoming parades and passing out candy to kids.
“Alive,” by Warbly Jets
Staley Tennis, NHS, FCA
Just gotta make it to Friday.
I’ve made some amazing friends during my time at Staley.
I’ve hiked on a volcano.
Archaeologist
Go to K-State University for college and majoring in Computer Science.
My mom because she works really hard and wants the best for me.
Hanging out with friends after school in the parking lot.
Mrs. Martin because she introduced me to computer science and inspired me to want to do that in college.
That I have a stupid sense of humor.
Paint Wars
“OMG,” New Jeans
Orchestra, Youth Symphony of Kansas City, Asian Student Union, Golf, NHS, Scholar Bowl, Science Olympiad, HOSA, Beta Club
Don’t do too much at once.
I have a girlfriend.
Get a girlfriend.
Lightning McQueen
I will study computational neuroscience and cello performance.
My dad. He had to persevere through a lot to bring us to the United States, and I aspire to be a doctor, too.
Running from one side of Disneyland to the other in five minutes to catch up to our bus during the orchestra trip. The Star Wars ride was worth it.
Mrs. Lawrence. She rarely questions anything I do, whether it is bringing a mini-fridge into her class or pouring pencil lead on worms. She will make fun of me to every other class, though.
I love well-trimmed Japanese dogs, including: Scoobert, Doodlebob, Borotan, Chewchan, Doodlebert, Churchill, Gomasuke, Tsuru, Benben, Umemamegram, Woody and Chaco.
ASU’s Lunar New Year decoration
“Underdog,” by Alicia Keys
Cross Country, Track, FCA, Choir (Chamber & Chorale), NHS, NEHS, and Girl Scouts
Virtual school was weird for everyone, and don’t work too hard.
I’ve been a varsity athlete all four years, and I am a Gold Award Girl Scout.
On a trip to Belize I jumped off a boat to swim with sharks
A marine biologist, because I love everything about the ocean.
To attend Mizzou
My cousin, Gavin. Someday, I’d love to have just a fraction of his strength, courage and smarts.
Honestly, I love spending time with the kids in Adaptive PE. Each class they tell the best stories and make me smile. Pretty sure I learn more from them than they do from me.
Profe, because in the 2 years I’ve had her as a teacher she has always seen me as the person I am and cared about me as a whole person, beyond just her classroom. I appreciate all she has done for me (and her reminder of la paz empieza conmigo).
You’d figure out pretty fast that I’m a runner who has a strong faith, loves books, food, and Dory — just keep swimming. :)
The blackout childhood cancer run the cross country team puts on every year
“Amoeba,” by Clairo
Step team, National Art Honors Society, Student government association (MCC), National society of success and leadership (NSLS at MCC), Karate, Hula, Black Student Union (MCC)
You need to trust that everything is going to be OK. Life gets busy and stressful but everything truly does work out in the end.
I have a big family with many different cultures, so I get to experience many things in different ways. I always have someone I can talk to, somewhere I can travel to, someone who can teach me. I have so many people that care for me all over the country, and because of that I get to travel to see family a lot and learn more about my culture every time I go somewhere.
Travel out of America. Last year I went to Japan, and it was such a wonderful experience. I got to meet new people, see new places and try new things!
A professional dancer. I’ve done hula and hip-hop since I was very young; it’s a hobby/sport that I still love to this day.
I will be taking a semester off then continuing my education in spring of 2025 for clinical psychology and child counseling.
My mother has always been one of my biggest inspirations. She has always been hardworking and is not one to give up or quit, even if it’s hard. She powers through really tough situations and always has something to be happy about. She taught me that love can be found in the darkest moments, and that almost anything is possible if you put in the work. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.
Competing at Northtown for step. The environment is so fun and does not feel stressful like the other competitions I’ve competed in. Everyone is happy and cheering for each other. It was such an amazing experience.
If I had to pick one, it’d be Mrs. Cox. I have had Mrs. Cox as my teacher for three years, and she has always been my favorite. She cares for all of her students and is understanding. She is always smiling and always checking in with her students to make sure they’re OK. She gives me critiques on my pieces and helps me realize that I have skill that shouldn’t be wasted. She has helped me better my art skills and helped me gain confidence over the years. She will always be one of my favorites, and I will miss her after I graduate
I get many videos about baking, jewelry making, sewing, traveling, dancing, wildlife and more. I love creating things, whether it’s cooking or sketching. I have a love for all arts. I also love animals and wildlife, on warm days I like to go on walks or bike around, or even just sit and soak it all in.
Diversity week. I love being able learn about different cultures and teach others about mine. I get to learn more about my friends and vice versa. Theres always always fun things planned. The whole week is so much fun and it ends with an amazing assembly!
“Just a Boy,” The Backseat Lovers
National Honor Society, Staley Philharmonic Orchestra, National Art Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Missouri HOSA, and the Youth Symphony of Kansas City.
It is OK to make mistakes. Looking at the big picture of your future can assure you the little things that matter now, will likely be nonexistent in a few years.
I know how to parallel park.
I have performed at the Kauffman Performing Arts Center several times.
Taylor Swift
I plan to attend the University of Missouri (Mizzou) to study biochemistry and cello performance, with an ultimate goal of becoming a physician assistant in dermatology.
One person who inspires me is my grandma. She introduced me to many of my hobbies, such as painting, music, and plant care. I always value our time together as she constantly teaches me important lessons and stories of my family.
My favorite high school memory is traveling to state auditions/ performances with my orchestra classmates. Twice a year, a few of us arrive at Staley early in the morning to take a school bus to the University of Missouri. We perform solos, explore campus, and meet people from around the state. Although this experience never fails to be exhausting, I really enjoy supporting my friends and meeting new people.
Ms. Shuck is my most memorable staff member. From traveling to Disney Land, to performing in the pit of a musical, each of the six classes I have had with her have been extremely adventurous and exciting. As I prepare to attend college, I will remember the consistent support and encouragement Ms. Shuck showed me.
I love watching crime documentaries and medical drama shows.
I really enjoy the annual art show. Seeing the impressive and unique pieces my classmates have made is something I look forward to every spring.
“Walk It Like I Talk It,” Drake
I played football for 4 years, ran track for 4 years, was in STUCO for 4 years, Leadership for 4 years, Choir for 4 years, basketball for 2 years, Black Student Union for 2 years, Leadership for Culture and Climate 2 years, DECA for 2 years.
After Covid everything changes, things get better, and lock in to set yourself in for the future.
I believe I’m surrounded by the greatest people I will ever meet. All my family and friends are some of the greatest people wether that be from their ambitions or their great heart.
Nothing yet
I wanted to play in the NBA.
To go to college and be the first person in my family to have a college degree
Zayaa Akins. She has a gift to just connect with people and just has a happy glow about her, wether that be on the track Field or in the church, she just inspires me to be better each day, either in furthering my faith or pushing myself on the track.
Senior night for football — that day was the first time in my life that my parents came to one of my games.
Either coach Newman or coach Willams; they just make me laugh 24/7 and expect more from me because they believe in my success. They inspire me to be a better man and athlete.
You would learn that I like to repost everything, I find just about everything funny, and you would learn that all my friends have big foreheads.
Homecoming the homecoming pep rally and float walk is the greatest time ever — definitely something I will never forget. Just everyone celebrating their club and throwing candy at kids, then the food trucks and joy on everyone’s faces.
“Good Old Days,” by Macklemore and Ke$ha
Golf
Don’t worry so much what other people think.
Losing 70 pounds
Seeing Taylor Swift in concert
Teacher
Going toNorthwest and majoring in elementary education
My mom. She’s always there for my family, and she has always worked hard to keep my family happy.
Senior homecoming
FACS teacher Julie Fantozzi. She is a good teacher, and if you need her she will be there to talk to you.
That I like to eat
Homecoming parade
“Long Live,” by Taylor Swift
Swim, Golf, Epsilon Beta, Orchestra, Choir and NHS
Don’t procrastinate and put yourself out there more.
I had floor tickets to Taylor Swifts Eras Tour with my dad.
Visiting Europe with my Grandma.
I wanted to be a doctor.
I plan on attending Kansas State University for Interior Architecture.
My mom is my biggest inspiration. She is the strongest person I know, she is a brilliant human being and probably the kindest person you will ever meet. She is so smart and is always willing to make sacrifices for the people she cares about.
My favorite memory would have to be from my junior year when the girls swim team had a lock-in at Northtown.
Mr. Freise because I have had him since 6th grade, and he has had the most impact on me throughout my high school experience.
I am a big Taylor Swift fan. I love to read, and I really like house remodel videos.
Getting to be a part of the homecoming parade all four years.