With less than seven weeks of school remaining and students returning from the April break, the energy around campus at Sci-Tech High School is shifting. Classrooms are filled with last-minute exam reviews and short assignments, but in the hallways, conversations are already turning toward summer plans, graduation and what comes next. For both students and staff, the end of the year brings a mix of reflection, excitement and anticipation.

School Reflections

This school year has been one of growth and adjustment, especially for administration. With a transition to just two administrators, Principal Sosa described the experience as a new one requiring stronger communication and clearer organization.

Despite the challenges, the school saw real progress. The number of students failing classes dropped, continuing a positive trend, and new courses were added: European history, ancient civilization and expanded art classes.

“I’m really proud of how the campus is growing,” Principal Sosa said, pointing to stronger programs and increased independence across the school. This growth wasn’t just academic; it reflected a stronger, more connected school community.

End of Year Feelings

As the countdown continues, emotions are mixed. Many students feel relieved that the year is ending, especially with the heavy workloads. At the same time, there’s a sense of nostalgia, particularly for the upperclassmen.

“I’m so happy this year is almost over,” Dashel Castro said, while also admitting, “we’re growing up so fast.” That combination of excitement and sadness is common, especially for students preparing to end their final year of high school or entering their last year.

Senior Jeff agreed, describing the feeling of being so close to graduation as “very anxious.” “I’m out, I’m about to be out of here, but I still have to wait until May 22nd,” he said.

According to a senior transition survey conducted by The Raven Report with most of the graduating class, the anxiety is widespread. Financial stability and the cost of living was the top concern, with over 40% of respondents selecting it. Managing a harder workload came in second. When asked how prepared they felt for life after high school, nearly half selected “neutral,” and only about a third said they felt somewhat prepared.

Jeff also expressed concern about feeling underprepared, particularly in math, after going stretches without a permanent teacher. “I feel like I haven’t been prepared the best,” he said. He pointed to the College Bridge requirements weeks before the deadline, as adding additional stress.

Summer Plans

Even with those concerns, summer is something everyone is looking forward to. For many students, it represents a much needed break after a demanding year. Plans range from relaxing at home to traveling and spending time with friends.

Some students are also focused on preparing for the future. “Hopefully get a job,” Gigi V. said. “I need to get money.” Although many agree on finding a job, others have mentioned vacations or simply taking time to recharge before the next school year begins.

Jeff said he plans to spend the summer hustling. “I’m going to get my money up because I need me a car,” he said, adding that he plans to take driving classes and prepare for community college in the fall. For Jeff, a car means independence and the ability to balance school and work on his own terms.

No matter the plan, the common theme is rest and freedom, something students feel they’ve earned.

Looking Ahead

While summer is close, many students are already thinking about what comes next. According to the senior survey, nearly half of respondents plan to attend a four-year college or university, while about a quarter plan to start at a community college. A few are considering trade school or taking a gap year. The majority plan to stay in Austin, though some are moving elsewhere in Texas or out of state. For juniors becoming seniors, the final year brings both excitement and pressure. Goals are simple but meaningful: graduate, get into college and make the most of senior year.

“I want my senior year to be fun,” Monica Hernandez commented, listing traditions like prom, senior sunrise and other activities. These moments represent more than just events; they’re milestones that mark the end of a long journey through school.

At the same time, students are carrying important lessons with them. As Monica reflects, “You can’t take everyone into the next chapter.” It’s a reminder that growth often comes with change.

Jeff offered advice for his fellow seniors in these final weeks: prioritize time management, take every scholarship opportunity that comes your way and don’t waste time if you have it. “If you don’t got a job or anything to do except school, then you should not be failing,” he said. “There should be no excuse.”

As STHS wraps up the year, the countdown to summer is about more than just time off.

It’s about celebrating progress, facing the future and recognizing that every ending is also a new beginning.

With spring break just days away, STHS scholars aren’t relaxing yet. Instead, they’re sharpening pencils, charging Chromebooks, and bracing for one of the busiest stretches of the school year: testing season.

Every week since late February, STHS has dedicated at least one full shutdown day to standardized testing, and the final push before break is no different. This week alone, Wednesday and Thursday are reserved for exams, capping off a three-week run that has included the TSI, the ACT, and TELPAS testing for the entire building.

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment, better known as the TSI, has been at the center of it all. The exam measures whether students are ready for college-level coursework in math and English, and for STHS scholars, passing it is a major milestone.

“The TSI is the Texas State Initiative Assessment, and that exam is to show the state of Texas that our scholars are college ready,” said Ms. Andrew, STHS College Completion Coordinator. “When you leave high school, when you leave Wayside, you go directly into your college-level courses.”

Ms. Andrew explained that the test isn’t only about four-year universities. The skills it measures apply to trade school and the workforce, too. The math section tests practical knowledge like understanding measurements and place value, while the English section assesses whether students can read contracts and business language.

Testing kicked off on February 26, when 10th graders sat for the TSI Math assessment and 11th graders took the ACT. Since then, makeup days and additional testing windows have filled the calendar nearly every week leading into break.

For many juniors, the experience was a relief after months of preparation. Eleventh grader Aldair Morales said the test required focus but felt doable thanks to consistent classwork. “Usually studying ahead of time and paying attention in class helped me feel more confident during the test,” Morales said. Still, he admitted that parts of the exam were tough. “Some questions were challenging, especially the first part.”

The TSI’s structure adds pressure. The initial section typically includes around 20 questions, and students who don’t pass that portion face an additional 48 questions to complete.

Not every student has had a smooth road to the testing room. Eleventh grader Eymi Salinas has been unable to take the TSI due to her testing accommodations not yet being arranged. “It confused and affected me because I don’t know when I’m going to take it,” Salinas said, expressing frustration over the uncertainty.

Behind the scenes, the school has built test preparation directly into the curriculum. Through the Path to College and Career classes, students receive two full years of prep using Progress Learning and small-group sessions with Ms. Smith before they ever sit for the TSI.

Even so, Ms. Andrew acknowledged that the math portion remains the biggest hurdle. Because students take Algebra 1 in eighth grade, by the time they sit for the TSI as juniors, the material is nearly three years old. To fix that gap, the school is making changes. Starting next year, the TSI math test will move to eighth grade so students take it right after completing Algebra 1, while the English portion will shift to the end of sophomore year.

“In order for it to be fresh and new, we’re going to move the TSI math test down to eighth grade,” Ms. Andrew said. “So as soon as you finish Algebra 1, you will take the assessment to prove that you’re ready.”

As testing wraps up this week, students already have their eyes on what’s next. Friday brings the school’s first-ever Spring Career Fair, where scholars will visit the gym to speak with career representatives about educational pathways and job opportunities. It’s a fitting end to a stretch that’s been all about proving readiness for life after high school.

For underclassmen watching from the sidelines, juniors have some simple advice: start studying now, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Morales offered one more tip for the next generation of test-takers: “Watch educational TikToks to study.”

Spring break starts after Friday. For STHS scholars and staff, they’ll have earned it.

At STHS, a new kind of lesson is taking shape in PCC III classrooms, and it is not being led by a teacher. The 11th grade Peer Forward team has stepped up, taking full ownership of lessons designed to help their fellow classmates prepare for one of the most important tasks of senior year: the college personal statement.

Since Febuary 17th, the team has been showing up to PCC III classes, working alongside college completion coordinator Ms. Andrew and PCC III and Dual Credit English teachers Ms. Dugé to deliver structured, student-led lessons. Their last day in the classroom is the 10th, wrapping up roughly three weeks of peer-led instruction.

The lessons covered a lot of ground. Students presented examples of strong personal statements, led group activities, worked through writing prompts, and held one-on-one conferences with their peers. The goal was to give 11th graders a head start on a process that can feel overwhelming when it arrives in the fall. Because so many college applications require a personal statement, having a draft completed before senior year begins could significantly ease the burden of application season.

Danny, a leader on the Peer Forward team, spoke about what it means to step into that role. “Being a leader means always doing things right and always supporting my teammates,” he said. “Sometimes they feel like it won’t go well, but I tell them it will, and that together everything is going to work out.” Danny also described the team’s focus during this stretch: “Right now we are helping 11th grade students write their personal statement, helping them get started on it.” He added that engagement has grown over time. “At first they did not take us that seriously, but then they saw that it was serious, and they started focusing and doing things well, and you can see that because most of them are making good progress on their personal statements.”

Rashell, another team member, described her specific role as keeping things organized and on track. “I take notes and make sure everyone is doing their work. We have meetings and I assign tasks so everything is ready.” She is also a believer in the model itself. “I think it is something really powerful,” she said. “A lot of students do not learn as much when a teacher is teaching them, and I think having students lead the class helps a lot.” She acknowledged the challenge too: “We obviously do not know everything a teacher knows, but I feel like they will learn a little better if we are the ones teaching them.”

Rashell also pointed to something harder to measure but easy to observe. “Some of them need that extra push, and I think the fact that it is coming from their peers helps some go on to complete their work more than if a teacher were in their place telling them the personal statements are important.”

The work of the 11th grade team is helping build a more collaborative and supportive learning environment at STHS. As Peer Forward continues to grow its presence on campus, what this team started in PCC III classrooms may be just the beginning.

Last week, Wayside Sci-Tech High School celebrated Valentine’s Day a day early, with Friday, February 13th serving as the school’s official day of love and friendship. Student Council organized a candy gram fundraiser that gave students a chance to show appreciation for friends, partners, or even a secret admirer.

Candy grams were available in three price tiers: a $1 option included a card and a small candy, the $3 option came with a card and a large chocolate, and for $5, students received a card, a large chocolate, and a ribbon rose. What made the $5 option especially notable was the quality of the flower itself.

“They’re definitely worth it since they’re handmade and they’re eternal flowers,” said Brian Obando, Student Council Vice President, who spent his lunch periods walking the campus to promote and sell the candy grams. “We have a florist that actually does her own company, so we’re in good hands.”

Obando described the candy grams as a way to send a meaningful message without a lot of pressure. “I’ve seen lots of people buying chocolate or a rose for their friends, or just buying a heartfelt letter to their significant other,” he said.

Student Council members Haley, Karime, and Gabriella echoed that sentiment, noting the candy grams were designed for everyone, not just couples. “We are selling these for anybody you want to give them to,” Haley said. “A friend, family, a partner. Just for Valentine’s Day.”

The response from students exceeded expectations. When asked about total sales, the group confirmed they had sold over 40 candy grams by the time of the interview, with sales still ongoing leading up to delivery day.

Proceeds from the fundraiser went toward Student Council operations and Prom, making the candy gram effort both a celebration and a practical investment in future school events. For Student Council, the week was one of the busiest of the year, balancing sales during Mega Lunch and coordinating delivery logistics so candy grams could be handed out during class time on the 14th.

For many students, the gesture was more than a holiday tradition. As one student put it, a simple card or a handmade rose could be the beginning of something new.

The assembly covered everything from punctuality to classroom behavior, with school leadership making it clear they want everyone locked in for a strong finish to the year. Several new and reinforced rules now apply, and students had mixed reactions.

Student Reactions

Kelvin, a student at STHS, said the assembly focused mainly on “new school rules and expectations the school wants to implement this semester.” While a lot of information was shared, he wasn’t sure which rule would matter most to him personally. The phone policy stood out, though. “They said they’ll take them away if we use them during class, and I think that’s going to affect a lot of people because we’re all used to having them.”

Kelvin admitted feeling “a bit thoughtful” during the presentation because he disagreed with some decisions. What surprised him most was the dress code announcement. He likes expressing himself through his style and found the restrictions unfair. If he could change one thing, it would be allowing more flexibility with clothing choices.

Another student, Josué, echoed similar concerns. He also pointed to the phone rule as the one that will impact students most. The dress code also caught his attention. “I like dressing in my own style,” he said, calling the policy restrictive. Like Kelvin, if Josué could change anything about the assembly’s announcements, it would be the dress code.

Teacher Perspective

Mr. Dimi, STHS’ Computer Science Teacher, explained that the assembly’s main goal was getting everyone on the same page from day one. He emphasized that punctuality and avoiding hallway distractions help create a better learning environment.

Expectations for the semester are high, Mr. Dimi said. The school wants students to reach their personal and academic potential. He noted some students seemed confused or concerned during the assembly, which is normal when new rules are introduced. But he’s confident students will adjust. “These activities show the school staff’s commitment to student success and wellbeing,” he added. “Students aren’t alone in their educational journey.”

The National Honor Society is hosting Wayside Thrift on Tuesday, January 14th during Raven’s Nest in the gym. The fundraiser aims to provide affordable clothing options for students to help combat the cold winter weather.

Students can shop in two ways: purchase a bag (small for $2, large for $4) and fill it with as many items as they want for free, or buy individual items with tank tops and t-shirts being free, accessories/shorts/skirts for $1, long-sleeves/hoodies/shoes for $2, and jeans/jackets/formal wear for $3.

The event will also feature a live auction where students can bid on special items using paddleboards. Four cash registers will be set up throughout the gym, each staffed by trained NHS members and supervised by faculty.

Students should report to their 4th period and Raven’s Nest classes for attendance before being dismissed to the gym. Rashell Vasquez will take additional attendance at the event.

All proceeds will support NHS shirt production and future service projects. For questions about transactions, contact Jenan Al-Sheikh. For auction inquiries, reach out to Dashel Castro or Danny Obando.

Hey Ravens,

Per popular request from the Wayside Community, we’re now on Instagram!

Follow us for bite-sized news updates, behind-the-scenes content, and quick hits on what’s happening at Sci-Tech High School.

While our podcast and Substack remain your go-to for in-depth stories, Instagram is where we’ll share short-form news content to keep you informed on the go.

👉 Follow us now @raven_report

Stay connected, stay informed.

— The Raven Report Team

Your voice matters! We’re working to improve The Raven Report, and we need your input to make our coverage more relevant to you.

Take 2 minutes to fill out our reader survey and tell us:

• What stories you want to see more of

• Which sections you actually read

• How we can better serve the STHS community

Survey link: https://forms.gle/iPTJDTMXr5C6hrUv5

Your feedback shapes what we cover next. Thanks for being part of our community.

— The Raven Report team

Artificial intelligence has become part of daily life at Sci-Tech High School, but teachers and students don’t always agree on how it should be used.

While some students use it as a learning tool, others see it as a shortcut to finish assignments quickly. Teachers, for their part, recognize AI’s potential but fear students may become too dependent on it.

Two Sides of the Same Technology

“AI in teaching and learning has the potential to be highly beneficial,” said Ms. Flores, a math teacher at STHS. “However, I am concerned that instead of being used to enhance learning, it may be misused as a shortcut to simply get answers, which provides no real benefit to student growth.”

Ms. Decker, a history teacher at STHS, shared a similar view: “To be honest, I see AI as a double-edged sword. It’s easy to access, but I worry it could encourage shortcuts. Instead of learning the material and developing their own voice, students may be tempted to just let AI do the work for them. That’s not real learning.”

STHS isn’t alone in grappling with these concerns. Across the country, teachers are reporting similar challenges. Casey Cuny, a 23-year veteran English teacher at Valencia High School in California, described the situation bluntly: “The cheating is off the charts. It’s the worst I’ve seen in my entire career. Anything you send home, you have to assume is being AI’ed.”

Yet, research from Stanford University suggests the story is more complex. While about three-quarters of students report behaviors that qualify as cheating, this rate hasn’t significantly increased since before AI became widely available. What’s changed is the technology behind the cheating—students are using AI instead of traditional methods like copying off peers or hiding textbooks in bathroom stalls. The tools have evolved, but the underlying problem remains the same.

The challenge for schools extends beyond just detecting AI misuse. According to a report by the Center for Democracy & Technology, two-thirds of teachers haven’t received guidance from their schools on how to respond when they suspect a student of using AI inappropriately. Meanwhile, about 39% of teachers use AI detection software, but one in five students report being falsely accused of AI-assisted cheating. The technology meant to solve the problem may be creating new ones.

How Teachers Use AI

Not all teachers view AI negatively. Many use it to improve their teaching.

Mr. Dimi, a computer science teacher, explained that “AI can enhance both teaching and learning by supporting knowledge work. Teachers can rely on AI for tasks like planning, research, or grading, which frees them to focus more on direct instruction and student engagement.”

STHS alongside Wayside schools has debuted AI in lesson planning with apps like Playlab AI, and some students have noted teachers using AI in class to help with accommodations and provide supplemental supports across numerous subjects.

An 11th grader shared their experience: “I’ve already used the Playlab App in English and Science classes and I found it useful. I would like to see more teachers use it because it’s like having an instant tutor.”

Mr. Jasso, the creative writing and journalism teacher, added that the technology can especially benefit academics and teachers. “It’s often a challenge to generate ideas and solutions,” he said. “In that sense, AI can be of great help.”

He also highlighted the advantages for students: “With LLMs like ChatGPT and Gemini, academics have a 24/7 tutor who can provide resources and answer questions.”

But he warns: “However, a big issue is that a lot of our scholars don’t know how to use this new technology responsibly nor are many aware of the big picture of how AI is potentially reshaping the world. This needs to go alongside any considered use of it in the classroom in my opinion.”

Student Voices

STHS students have different reasons for using AI.

Jesus, a senior, admitted he uses it in various situations: “I use it when I feel difficulty doing homework, and also when I can’t understand some topics.” But he was honest about his motivations: “I don’t want to be a liar—sometimes I use it to finish my homework quickly.”

For Mariam, a senior, AI is a necessity. “It can be a great help when you don’t understand some things,” she explained. “In this school there are many students who come from other countries and don’t know English. With AI you can search for an explanation in our language. I use it to translate all the papers they give me in English.”

Danny, a junior, uses AI more selectively: “I only use it when I can’t do anything, like in math class, where there are problems I don’t understand at all. Then I use AI to help me understand the work.”

The Debate Continues

The conversation about AI in schools reflects a national debate about how to integrate this technology into education. The main question remains unanswered: How can schools leverage AI’s benefits while preventing it from becoming a crutch for students?

The numbers show just how widespread AI use has become. In a Gallup/Walton survey, about 60% of teachers reported using an AI tool during the 2024–25 school year for various work tasks, not necessarily in classroom instruction. Meanwhile, in a survey of middle and high school students (grades 7–12), 70% reported that they had used a Large Language Model like ChatGPT in their studies.

What is clear is that AI is already here, and both teachers and students are learning to navigate this new territory together.

What do you think about using AI in class? Share your comments with The Raven Post.

Common Assessments began this week at STHS and will continue through next week, covering core subjects like math, English, history, and science, along with some non-core classes. These assessments are a crucial part of our academic program that goes beyond typical testing to shape how students learn and teachers teach.

“Common Assessments are academic reviews we conduct throughout the year to gauge student levels and provide better support,” explained Assistant Principal Mr. Sanchez. Unlike regular class exams, these formal evaluations mirror state test structure and rigor. Their purpose isn’t grading but gathering data to improve school-wide instruction.

“After each assessment, we analyze results to identify what needs reteaching, where scholars excel, and how to adjust lesson plans,” Sanchez added. This ensures all scholars receive consistent, high-quality education regardless of their teacher.

Teachers also value these assessments. “They’re one tool we use to measure scholar learning and growth,” said Mr. Jasso. “The main benefit is having a consistent format that eliminates variables like test or teacher bias.”

For teachers like Ms. Calderon, preparation connects directly to daily instruction: “I review the test before planning lessons and practice the skills being evaluated. In English, we work on inferences daily so students can apply that skill to any text on the assessment.”

Ultimately, Common Assessments focus on student growth. As Mr. Sanchez concluded: “When scholars don’t put effort into them, the data becomes inaccurate and they miss out on the best education possible. The results guide us in helping each student succeed.”

With voting day approaching on Tuesday, September 30th, Student Council candidates took to the library stage last Friday for a spirited debate that laid bare students' frustrations with Wayside's status quo. The half-hour debate, hosted by Colin Kerouac and now available on The Raven Report podcast, revealed candidates ready to tackle everything from broken communication to missing water fountains.

"When we vote, we're practicing democracy right here on campus," Kerouac reminded the audience. "The same kind of democracy that shapes our communities and our country."

Communication Crisis Takes Center Stage

Vice Presidential candidate Douggie Parrish didn't hold back in her opening statement: "My name is Douggie Parrish, I'm running for vice president, and I am sick and tired of the way our school functions."

Her blunt assessment resonated throughout the debate as candidates unanimously identified communication as Wayside's biggest challenge. "Communication has been a struggle for as long as Wayside has been open," Parrish elaborated, pointing to last-minute decisions and day-of announcements that leave students scrambling.

Parrish even took a direct shot at the current morning announcement format, suggesting student-led announcements could improve engagement. Her parting words on the topic drew laughs and applause: "Sorry Sosa, but the jokes are not it."

From Water Fountains to Spring Fest: Candidates' Vision for Change

The debate revealed a student body seeking both practical fixes and cultural renewal. Vincent Castaneda, running for 11th Grade Representative alongside Daniel Zaragoza and Kevin Pantoja, championed a seemingly simple but urgent need: "Too many students have gone too long without a source of water close by the majority of their classes." His call for a water fountain near the portables represents the kind of basic infrastructure improvements students are demanding.

Meanwhile, Vice Presidential candidate Danny Obando emphasized the need for a richer school experience. "High school should be more than academics," he argued. "We seek opportunities to express ourselves through culture and events." Obando promised to bring back successful events like last year's Spring Fest while ensuring "everyone's opinions" are considered, "not just within student council."

Senior Year Reimagined

Running unopposed for Senior Class President, Steven Herbert focused his platform on easing the pressure-cooker atmosphere of senior year. "Seniors shouldn't be crunch time and stressful," Herbert insisted. "It should be your last year to form and finalize those connections that you have made over the last four years."

Herbert's proposals include securing off-periods or early dismissal privileges for seniors juggling jobs, college applications, and advanced coursework—ideas that could fundamentally reshape the senior experience at Wayside.

The Motivation Debate: Snacks vs. Service

A philosophical divide emerged when candidates were asked how they'd motivate student council members. Obando took a practical approach, suggesting that providing snacks and drinks had proven effective for getting volunteers to make posters last year.

Parrish disagreed sharply: "I feel we shouldn't be working for an incentive and instead, it should be within us that we have the courage and the bravery and the motivation to do student council."

Students Demand More Involvement

The debate's energy reflects a broader student desire for change. Rashell, a student planning to run next year after missing this year's deadline, doesn't sugarcoat her assessment of the current council: "I feel like they can do better in getting students involved and making the school have more spirit. Looking at our student council, I feel like we're boring."

She's calling for wider participation beyond the usual student groups. "Give more people the chance to participate," she urges, hoping to run for president herself next year.

What's at Stake

Ms. Fernandez, Student Council advisor, reminds students that STUCO is more than just planning dances. "Students benefit from joining STUCO because they get to be a part of a community, practice their leadership skills, and there are scholarships available to members," she notes. "Colleges also like to see involvement with an organization like Student Council."

This year's council has ambitious plans including fundraisers, games, and the 3rd Annual Spring Fest. But as Friday's debate made clear, students are looking for more than just events—they want fundamental changes in how their school operates.

Election Day: All students will vote in the cafeteria during Raven's Nest on September 30th. For those who missed the debate, catch the full recording on The Raven Report podcast to hear the candidates' complete platforms.

Interested in joining Student Council? Contact Ms. Fernandez for information about future opportunities.


Article written by Joscan Flores
Edited by Mr. Jasso

As part of the Wayside community, the yearbook is one of our most exciting traditions—that great book holding our most cherished high school memories.

The yearbook is like the heart of Wayside, capturing our happiest, funniest, and most emotional moments. It reflects our teamwork through sports, clubs, and student organizations. To create this year's successful yearbook, the yearbook club, led by Mx. Rozsypal, began its work two weeks ago on our Sci-Tech High School campus.

Vision of the yearbook Sponsor, Mx. Rozsypal

In an exclusive interview, yearbook leader Mx. Rozsypal shared how things have changed from last year. She explained that previously, the yearbook was created exclusively by her graphic design class with only juniors and seniors participating. But this year is different: "Now it's a club, so anybody has the chance to be part of the yearbook."

At Thursday's afternoon meeting on September 11, the club showcased greater diversity with freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors all represented. "I think there's a lot more personality that can show through, and different perspectives that everyone can share," Mx. Rozsypal added.

She emphasized that the yearbook has been a longtime tradition and remains important because it lets you look back on your high school memories. "Looking back always makes you say, 'Wow, I changed a lot over this year.'"

According to Mx. Rozsypal, this year's main challenges are improving digital resources, communication, and teamwork. Last year, "the hardest part was getting the photos." To fix this, they've partnered with the journalism club led by Mr. Jasso and the photography club led by Ms. McAshan, who will provide fantastic photographic material.

The Voice of the Yearbook Club

To understand the heart of the yearbook, we spoke with three experienced seniors who participated in graphic design last year, plus one innovative sophomore joining the club for the first time.

Senior Leaders

Sophie brings kindness and enthusiasm to the team. "I hope to be helpful for yearbook taking pictures," she says. Her expectations for readers? "I hope they'll look back on their memories and feel represented."

What Sophie enjoys most about yearbook club is the interaction: "Having to interact with others, especially for those who don't talk a lot." She adds, "The yearbook is how we represent the school."

Douggie is visionary and committed. "I'm really excited, especially about the theme election and taking photos," she shares. For her, the "yearbook documents everything about student life."

Her favorite part? "When people go through the pages and say 'That's my friend!' and look at their glow-ups," she adds with emotion.

Jeffrey brings creativity and thoughtfulness to the team. He believes the yearbook matters because it "allows us to look back on memories. Some of us will reflect on what high school was like when we're at university or in future jobs."

Jeffrey loves designing pages and looking through pictures. "I love helping around," he says. His hope? "When they look at the yearbook, they'll remember all their friends, their good times, and their favorite teachers."

A Growing Creative Mind

Gigi, our sophomore representative, thinks the yearbook is important because "people have memories from their high school experiences."

What she loves most is having fun creating it: "Yearbook is a place where everybody will find their good times and fun classes." Her goal is simple but ambitious: "This yearbook will be better than the last one."

Soul of Wayside

The Wayside yearbook represents us as a student community. Project co-sponsor Mr. Jasso shared that for him, the yearbook is "just telling a story of those at Wayside—who we are. It's an opportunity for us to get to know who we were, what it was like to be a senior, sophomore, junior, and freshman."

The Raven Post will keep you informed about the progress of this treasured Wayside tradition.

This year, STHS’ cafeteria added free coffee to the breakfast menu. While many students initially welcomed the addition, reactions have since been mixed since item was added as a breakfast option.

"It looked fine, but once you actually drink it, it's not what you expected," said Kevin P., an 11th grader. Several students described the coffee as "too watered down," with some comparing it to "milk with a hint of coffee."

Despite the criticism, some students appreciate the free caffeine boost. "It's free, and it gives me energy," one freshman noted. "It's good enough" said another student in the cafeteria. For students who stay up late studying or working, any coffee serves its purpose.

Some Students have offered suggestions for improvement, including stronger brews and flavored syrup options. Many students proposed adding hot cocoa or tea alternatives for non-coffee drinkers, an idea that has gained support among the student body.

While free coffee on the breakfast menu continues to show promise, many students continue to opt for juice, milk, or coffee from home until improvements are made. The cafeteria has not yet announced whether changes to the coffee service are planned.

Sci-Tech High School’s new library opened its doors this week on Tuesday, August 19, and quickly became a popular spot for students seeking a quiet place to read, study, or simply take a break from the bustle of campus life. Located in P602, the library welcomed more than 20 students in its debut week and received overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The initiative, led by staff members including Ms. Dugé and Mr. Sanchez, builds on last year’s “street library,” which had been set up in the main hallway. While the earlier version gave students access to books, many found the hallway location too crowded and noisy to use comfortably. The new space was designed to address those concerns, offering tables, computers, and a modest but growing collection of books that range from teen novels to literary classics.

The library will now be open three times a week—Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 to 8:05 a.m.—and during MegaLunch on Fridays from 12:43 to 1:30 p.m. Students can check out books for the semester or stay and read during the open hours. In its first week, one student even checked out a book, a promising sign of long-term interest.

Senior Abby Canales, one of the library’s frequent visitors, said she was impressed with the new setup. “I visit it every day [it’s open]. I couldn’t really visit the old one; there was just too much of a crowd and I couldn’t find a book I liked,” she explained. Canales praised the larger selection and the quiet environment, describing it as “a nice safe space” away from the cafeteria. “It makes [schoolwork] easier and more manageable. I guess the quietness… gives us a space for people needing some down time and meeting others,” she added.

Other students echoed hopes that the library’s hours might be extended in the future. Canales noted that she would like to see it open every morning and during lunch on more days. She also suggested adding more teen fiction and comfortable furniture, such as a couch or rocking chair, to make the space even more inviting.

Several students specifically requested more Spanish-language novels; library staff say they plan to expand the Spanish-language section and add bilingual and translated titles as the collection grows to better serve the school’s Spanish-speaking students.

Despite these requests for expansion, the library’s debut week was seen as a clear success. Staff and students alike expressed optimism that the new resource will continue to grow and become a cornerstone of the STHS community. For now, the library will reopen Tuesday morning at 7:30 for any students interested in stopping by.

The Raven Report, the official podcast of Sci-Tech High School’s student-run newspaper, began recording its second season today in Room P404, the journalism classroom of Mr. Jasso.

Unlike The Raven Post, which focuses on balanced news coverage, the Raven Report provides students a chance to openly share their voices and perspectives with the Wayside community. The podcast aims to highlight stories about STHS students as well as the broader South Austin community. In its debut season, the Raven Report explored a wide range of topics, from cell phone restrictions and prom to students’ experiences moving to the United States from other countries, as well as conversations with STHS alumni about their college journeys.

Each week, the editorial team selects a topic, drafts a script, and receives approval from Mr. Jasso before recording. Episodes are typically produced during Raven’s Nest or club hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and then edited for release.

This season, senior Collin Kerouac will return as the main host, joined by co-hosts Kelvin Carranza, Joscan Flores, and Jesus Oporta. The team also anticipates guest hosts from the journalism club and possibly STHS teachers.

Last year, the Raven Report produced 12 episodes. This year, the team hopes to more than double that number, further expanding opportunities for student expression on campus.

Episodes of The Raven Report are available on the Raven’s Report Substack page as well as on Apple Music and Spotify.

Sci-Tech High School gathered in the gymnasium on August 18 for the first pep rally of the 25-26 school year, bringing together students and staff to celebrate Raven spirit and kick off the third week of school.

During Raven’s Nest, students met with their advisory teachers before being escorted to the gym, where each grade level was seated in designated sections. The pep rally, coordinated by Ms. Andrew, the school’s college and career coordinator, featured team introductions, student competitions, and cheer performances.

The event highlighted STHS athletics with presentations of the varsity volleyball and track teams, introduced by Coach Topsy and Coach A, who were on hand to support and recognize their athletes for the new year. Students also previewed this year’s cheerleading lineup, which energized the crowd. One of the most anticipated moments came when the teachers faced off against students in a volleyball game. As in past years, the students secured the win, earning loud cheers from their classmates.

A long-standing tradition also returned: the Spirit Stick competition. Each grade level competed to show the most energy and school pride. In an unexpected twist, the freshmen impressed the crowd with strong participation, but the final showdown came down to the juniors and seniors. Ultimately, the senior class took home the Spirit Stick, solidifying their lead in school spirit. While the Spirit Stick usually comes with rewards such as a free-dress day, no prize has been announced yet.

With a mix of spirited games, team recognition, and student involvement, the first pep rally of the year set a lively tone for the semester.

Sports Line Up for the 25-26 School Year

Varsity Volleyball Roster

Girls
Ani Mondragon
Edgarlin Villalobos
Sophia Sixto
Dashel Castro
Hilda Barriera
Hailey Zamora
Nyah Lewis
Britany Lopez
Camila Perez
Yeraldy Joya
Analynn Ramirez
Ana Barriera
Evolet Salazar
Nathalia Morales
Diana Tlatnechi
Gigi Vela
Ashley Alcantara
Itzel Esquivel
Kayla Martinez
Victoria Gomez
Trinity Ortiz

Boys
Axel Piñon
Fernando Guillen
Kaleb Esquivel
Jose Osorio
Sebastian Bernal
Chris Garcia
Jay Reyes
Collin Kerouac
Santiago Iglesias
Aiden Trejo
Armando Garcia
Eddy Mondragon
Jose Medrano
Jeffry Cruz
Ivan Cortes

Varsity Track Roster

Girls
Linney Espinoza *** (Captain)
Gigi Vela-Aguilar
Selena Barron
Gabriela Gomez
Aleyda Albarran
Yeraldy Joya
Nyah Lewis
Brittany Lopez
Annie Mondragon
Hailey Zamora
Sharlene Rosas
Mackenzie Campos

Boys
Collin Kerouac *** (Captain)
Cristobal Tiantchi
Felix Gonzalez
Adam Clement
Luis Hernandez
Jeovanni DeLeon
Anderson Jimenez
Christian Canales
Noah Garcia
Andrew Garcia

Sci-Tech High School is kicking off the fall semester with the start of student clubs this Thursday, August 21. After last week’s club fair on August 14, where students gathered in the gym to explore their options, rosters are now being finalized and posted for the first club meetings.

The club fair allowed students to rank their top choices, with alternatives listed as second and third options. Those who did not register will be assigned to a club. Returning favorites such as Student Council, National Honor Society, Pride Club, and Gardening Club remain on the roster, while new additions like Knitting Club and Canva & Crafts Club have generated buzz among students.

Ms. Smith, STHS’ club liaison, has been working to finalize rosters, which are expected to be posted by Wednesday near the portable classrooms. Informational meetings will take place during Raven’s Nest this Thursday, giving students and teachers an opportunity to learn more about their clubs before activities officially begin.

Clubs at STHS are designed to give students opportunities beyond the classroom to explore personal interests, connect with peers, and build leadership skills. Leadership positions extend beyond traditional officers to groups focused on marketing, outreach, and overall campus leadership.

Any adjustments to club assignments may be requested on Friday, August 23, and Monday, August 25, though changes are not guaranteed.

After months of planning, STHS has finally opened its first official library—and it’s more than just a room filled with books. The new library was created with one main goal: to provide students with a safe and quiet place to read and discover new stories.

Last year, the school faced challenges in creating a library, and the vision didn’t come together as planned. Students had to rely on shelves in the hallway for access to books. Now, thanks to the hard work and dedication of Mr. Sanchez, STHS’, Principal-in- Residence, and other dedicated Wayside staff, the dream has become a reality. The library has its own room, filled with shelves of books for students to enjoy.

The Set-Up of the School Library

The library is located in Room 602 and officially opens this week. Students can visit on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30–8:05 a.m. and during Mega Lunch.

Unlike other schools, this library wasn’t built with outside funding. Instead, it was made possible by the generosity and passion of the STHS community. Teachers donated many books last year, and extra copies were added to meet student requests. Over the summer, the collection was expanded to be more inclusive, with new titles in Spanish added to the shelves.

Mr. Sanchez explained the purpose behind the library:

“The statistics between successful people and how often they read is staggering. I believe that by giving scholars fun, enjoyable reading options, we can help them increase the amount of time they spend reading. People tend to do things they enjoy, so I want to give them books that they may enjoy.”

More Than Just Books

The library is designed to be more than a book collection. It will serve as a safe haven where students can relax, take a break, and escape into new worlds through reading. To help maintain the space, Ms. Duge will serve as the librarian, with support from Mr. Jasso.

Clubs will be able to use the space for meetings, and a wall has been set aside to display student artwork. Students can borrow books using a sign-out sheet, and they are expected to return them responsibly. If you still have a book from last year, now is the time to bring it back so others can enjoy it.

Thanks to Mr. Sanchez and the teachers who contributed, STHS is turning the page and opening a new chapter with its first-ever library.