• Follow us on Instagram @MWHS.Catalyst
  • Follow us on Twitter @MWHSCatalyst for Breaking News
The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
Senior Chance Roberts was able to record one interception in the shutout win against Lincoln North Star. Roberts and company kept the Navigators off the scoreboard multiple times late to seal the low scoring game on senior night. “As a defense we are all really close, so it is easy to play with and for each other,” Roberts said. “ Our coaches do a great job of keeping us focused on the goal. As a unit we understand what we have to do to win.” Photo By Chloe Vaughn

Playoffs still in sight for the Cats

Trey Jochims, Managing Editor
October 28, 2024
As high school seniors stand on the threshold of adulthood, casting their first ballot is not only a rite of passage but also an act of civic engagement. Their votes can help shape the country they will be a part of, making it more equitable, just and sustainable.

Representing the youth

Leah Pickhinke, Staff Reporter
October 28, 2024
Sifting through racks of clothes sophomore Madelyn Palacios tries to come across a good find. Palacios goes to the thrift anytime she can since there are always new items coming in. “I think everyone should thrift because not only is it an eco-friendly alternative, but for the most part the clothes that you get, you know it’s because you like them, so it creates a sense of individuality,” Palacios said. “By getting something thrifting you're not just going along with the passing fads and not conforming to trends because they are popular at the time.”

Second-hand the brand

Kyla Riveland, Staff Reporter
October 15, 2024
Following a kill, senior Hayden Hart celebrates with her teammates. Hart played a crucial role and racked up several kills en route to the Wildcats sweep of the Titans. “We need to leverage the confidence and momentum we gained from that win,” Hart said. “Continuing to refine our skills on the court and focus on consistency by maintaining strong team culture and staying dedicated during practices will help us continue to grow as a team.”

Wildcats stun top-ranked Titans

Sam Whittaker, Staff Reporters
September 20, 2024
On stage, Juliet’s actor Lily Lane and Romeo’s actor Henry Hudson talk and flirt at Juliet’s balcony. At the Aug. 29 performance, the cast and crew had rehearsed this play many times already, with the hopes of portraying a heartfelt story, this was their first time performing for a packed theater. “Stay but a little, I will come again,” Lane (Juliet) said. “Three words, dear Romeo, and good night indeed.”

Bravo, star-crossed lovers

Luka Pashia
September 16, 2024
Cheering on the football team, senior Frederick Mindrup dresses up with necklaces, bracelets and an American flag cape to help lead chants and show school spirit. He and 15 other crazies pumped up the crowd and made the most of the first football game this season. “During football games, we are responsible for the crowd,” Mindrup said. “This means that we need to keep the energy flowing if it seems too mellow. We help lead chants with the cheerleaders and encourage the crowd to get loud.”

Crowd goes Crazy

Lainey Reynolds, Staff Reporter
September 12, 2024
Sharing a quiet connection, Nova brightens the library with every gentle touch. Her dedicated handler, librarian Mrs. Gehrke guides her through her visits helping students de-stress during the school year. “ I just want to make sure that students feel safe at school and I know that Nova can ensure everyone feels that way,” Gehrke said. “Nova's gentle presence makes the library a sanctuary of peace for everyone who visits.”

Spreading pawsitivity

Natalie Fink, Staff Reporter
August 30, 2024
Running lines for the last time before performing, senior Lily Lane and sophomore Henry Hudson practice the balcony scene. Both actors are working on showing the love their two characters have for each other and paying extra attention to scenes like this.“I love it. It's the first time I've ever auditioned for a play so it was quite a surprise,” senior Lily Lane said. “My favorite part of playing Juliet is all her costumes. It makes me feel so pretty and I love my character voice.”

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo”

Lexi Vore, Staff Reporter
August 29, 2024
To keep track of what her students are doing, Spanish teacher Joline Tesar uses Securly in the classroom. Without having to close down tabs or block sites Tesar could focus on the positives of Securly. “We didn’t even know we needed it until it came along, I think just the existence of it keeps students on track,” Tesar said. “It gives me peace of mind and it takes a very large amount of stress off teachers' plates; it's game-changing. “

Keeping screens secure

Peyten Pruitt, Staff Reporter
August 29, 2024
Painting a wall of a house, sophomore Jacquelyn Collette is helping her resident redo her house. She and a group of students from other states reconstructed and painted many walls to help her. “My favorite part about mission trips is getting to meet and interact with people that you may not have gotten to know,” Colette said. “I was on a crew with three people from Illinois, one from North Carolina, and one from Canada. It is so cool to see how different you are but you still have so many things in common. I still talk to the people from my trip and think it is amazing how strong of a connection we formed in one week.”

Serving to support

Lainey Reynolds, Staff Reporter
August 29, 2024
Handing the ball off to his teammate, senior quarterback David James Schiemann practices in preparation for week one. This year will be Schiemann’s first at the helm of a new Millard West offense after sitting behind former starter Brody Peterson. “Stepping into the starting role has been on my mind since last season ended,” Schiemann said. “Being behind a quarterback like Brody for a long time with his leadership and ability to tell me things to prepare has helped me to be the guy to lead this new offense this year. While this summer has been going alright, I know the coaches are always helping me in every way to help not just myself but the others around me, too.”

Ready to pounce

Sam Whittaker, Staff Reporter
August 28, 2024
The effects of a natural disaster can take away a home where memories were made. Artwork by Carley Bailey

History repeats itself

Sophia Eljamal, Staff Reporter
May 20, 2024
Load More Stories