The McNicholas Milestone

By Maeve Rice Every year since 1951, McNick has held a Homecoming dance that includes the collaboration of many weeks of dance preparation.   Science teacher and Homecoming moderator Mr. Jonathan Spurlock said prep “starts really from day one, that day we get back into school.” The planning is separated into three committees: t-shirts, court, … More Dancing the night away; Homecoming 2026 recap

By Meghan Runte At the beginning of the 2026-27 school year, McNicholas High School made a transition in Learning Management Software, or LMS programs from Schoology to Canvas and results from a recent Milestone survey show Schoology was favored by 63% of students and teachers surveyed over Canvas.   Math teacher Mr. Mathew Brunner, English … More Software showdown; Rockets share thoughts on Canvas

By Alex Minella With new service opportunities, increased flight programming, and plans for new traditions, CREW is focused on building relationships and strengthening the McNicholas community this school year.  Student Culture Coordinator Mr. Todd Naumann continues to oversee the program and work with student leaders to build engagement across the school. Naumann stated that his … More New year, new traditions for CREW

By Rosie Smith Over the years, many veteran teachers at McNicholas High School have faced numerous changes in education.   Anatomy and Physiology teacher Ms. Cat Humphries, who is in her twelfth year at McNick, shared that the change from eight classes every day to the block schedule helped her teach material more thoroughly. “Students … More Teachers share changes in education

By Rosie Smith McNicholas hired seven new staff and faculty for the 2026-2027 school year, including two math teachers, a theology teacher, a marketing and communication specialist, and a new Director of Curriculum. Math teacher Mr. Ed English came to McNick after teaching 7th and 8th grade math at Seven Hills Elementary for four years … More McNicholas welcomes new staff and faculty

By Maeve Rice During the summer, although the students were gone, work continued. This year, the Facilities Team worked along with R.J. Beischel Building Co., a construction company, to help create a new look for the school.  For Mr. Mike Orlando, Director of Facilities, this was one of his biggest projects of the year. He … More Walking into opportunities: McNick’s newest renovation 

At McNicholas High School, not every rule can be found in the student handbook.   From a recent Milestone survey, students shared the unwritten rules they have learned throughout their time at McNick. These rules are learned through experience, friends, and older students.   The most common unwritten rule was to not walk on the star Iocated … More Beyond the handbook: McNick’s unwritten rules

By Meghan Runte Over the summer, teens across the country use their extra time working so that they have a productive way to spend their time and make money for activities. However, recently it has been harder for teens to find jobs due to college age students and adults holding onto their entry-level jobs longer … More Working Rockets; Summer jobs harder to find 

As graduation is quickly approaching and the Class of 2026 is preparing to start a new chapter in their lives, the Milestone decided to ask the McNicholas faculty and staff for some last helpful advice for the soon to be graduates.   Many McNicholas teachers encouraged students to follow their passion, not wealth. Social Studies teacher, Mr. Jeff Mulvey said, “You’ll never be ‘financially secure,’ so chase joy, … More One chapter ends; a new one begins: Advice for Class of 2026 

“Where the Sea Meets the Stars” themed prom took place on April 25, 2026, at Norlyn Manor in Batavia. The 2026 Women of the Court consisted of: Julia Bayer, Lauren Beiser, Josephine (Josie) Fortin, Grace McCafferty, Kathryn Moran, Delaney Rains, Addison Reineke, Ellen Robey, Emma Rosenbaum, Whitley Sway, Kennedy Trapp, and Annemarie Wolfer. The Men of the Court consisted of: … More Fortin, Smith named 2026 Prom Queen, King 

By Maeve Rice Over the years, McNick has had numerous talented student athletes compete at state level. While McNicholas has several state championships and athletes who have reached state level competition, this article will only focus on those currently attending McNicholas.  In 2016-2017 and 2022-2023 the Men’s Volleyball Team made it to state but lost in the first round. In the 2023-2024 school year, they won their first state championship. The following … More Sports in review: Several students found success in reaching state competition

By Sarah Marshall and Whitley Sway McNicholas High School honored nine senior students for achievements in the arts during a ceremony on Tuesday, April 28. Seniors Mia Colonna Brady Edwards, Ava Hudson, Caleb Link, Connor Louis, Madison McPherson, Addison Reineke, Ellen Robey, and Evie Smith are continuing their passion for art beyond high school.   Mia Colonna will be attending Miami University in Oxford, Ohio … More From McNicholas to Masterpieces: Seniors Pursue Art Beyond High School

By Meghan Runte Teacher appreciation week is celebrated at McNick from Monday, May 4 to Friday, May 8. Administration coordinator, Mrs. Jenni Tumser, has planned special treats and activities each day of teacher appreciation week to thank teachers.   On Monday, teachers enjoyed a catered breakfast, Tuesday there was a nacho bar, Wednesday was a catered grill out, Thursday included a trail mix bar, and Friday has gift card giveaways planned.   Tumser said that the week … More Education appreciation: Students share the impact of their teachers 

By Rosie Smith As the end of the year is approaching, teachers are working hard to finish this final stretch of the year.  In a recent survey by the Milestone teachers shared how they avoid and manage stress by setting limits for themselves, not looking at email after a certain time, or keeping a checklist.   Math teacher Mrs. … More Battling the burnout: Teachers push through end of the school year

By Rosie Smith The McNicholas band and choir are currently in their final practices for their upcoming performance on Thursday, May 7 at 7 p.m. in the Jeanne Spurlock Theatre. Vocal music director Mrs. Lauren Bridges Loyer and band director Mr. Keith Nance are working together to bring the spring concert to McNick. The student-vocalists … More Band, choir prepare for spring concert

By Maeve Rice  At McNick, many programs are offered to help students grow, and one of those programs is St. Joseph Scholars.  The St. Joseph Scholars program was developed in 2018, started by math teacher Mr. Dan Rosenbaum, who was at the time Director of Curriculum. The program was created for students who are currently enrolled in rigorous classes and want to continue striving towards excellence in academics. It allows for students to be … More Program honors high achieving students

By Meghan Runte Every year, when winter ends and spring begins, there is a change in energy, motivation, and morale among people of all ages. In winter, when the days are short and cold, many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is classified by Mayo Clinic as “a type of depression that’s related … More Change of seasons, change of feelings; Seasonal affective disorder impact on students, teachers

By Rosie Smith In the fall of 2020 when it was time to return to the classrooms after missing the final three months of the 2019-2020 academic year, Covid continued to cause academic challenges, not only for the students, but for teachers as well. In a recent survey, the McNicholas faculty shared their points of … More Pre vs. post COVID: challenges faced in the classroom

By Meghan Runte The McNicholas Theatre program is holding two showcases for students to highlight what they have learned throughout the year. The Musical Theatre Class has their showcase on April 28 at 7 p.m. in the Jeanne Spurlock Theatre, and the Theatre Appreciation and Performance, Acting Styles, and Musical Theatre Dance classes have their … More Lights, camera, action; Theatre class prepares for upcoming showcase

As prom season approaches, McNick students and faculty and staff are getting ready to celebrate the night on April 25 at Norlyn Manor. This year’s theme is “Where the Sea Meets the Stars.”  Prom doors open at 6 p.m. and close no later than 11 p.m. Students will have a provided mandatory dinner, included in the ticket cost, upon their arrival followed by many activities throughout the night.   Administrative Assistant to the Principal and prom committee chair Ms. … More McNick takes a dive into prom 2026  

New uniforms for the 2026-2027 school year at McNicholas High will begin being integrated in the fall with the incoming freshman class, the Class of 2030. The current sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be “grandfathered in,” so they can continue to wear their current uniforms. This policy will reduce financial pressure for current families. “Our … More Uniform Policy Shifts Toward Modesty

As the end of the 2025-2026 school is quickly approaching and the Class of 2026 is preparing for graduation, current seniors offered advice, tips and tricks and information to the upcoming senior class that they wish they would’ve known before their senior year.   Many seniors interviewed commented that they wished they would have been more on top of college deadlines. Ava Gerome said, “Get your common app done as soon as possible because if you get your applications submitted right away it’s a huge stress reliever,” while Caleb Link advised … More Seniors prepare Class of 2027 for senior year

By Maeve Rice  For high school students, fun drinks have become quite a trend. Ranging from coffee from Dunkin’ to refreshers from Starbucks to Alani’s from home, McNick has it all. The real question is how long it takes to finish their drink. Do students chug it in 20 minutes or keep it around all day from A bell until D bell and savor every sip?  In a recent Milestone survey, students, and faculty of McNick provided how long it takes them … More Sipper vs chugger: Students savor their sips

For many students, collecting is more than a hobby; it is a way to hold onto memories, express identity, and connect with the people and passions that matter most to them. Freshman Caleb Dickson said he collects vintage fishing poles. The item was important to him because he enjoyed fishing and valued bringing history into … More From antiques to treasure: the history of the student collectors

By Meghan Runte McNicholas High School currently has three cooking classes: Culinary Chemistry, Food Science, and French Culinary. The courses are taught by French teacher, Mrs. Ellen Bungenstock, and science teacher Ms. Jessica Mueller. Mueller said students should take one of these classes because it “allows students to learn something they will use for the … More What’s cooking in culinary? Why food cuisine classes are beneficial

By Rosie Smith For students who want to express their creativity or share interest in secondhand fashion, there is a club just for them. Junior Barrett Brandenburg introduced Thrifting Club this year as a way for Rockets to shop secondhand and fill up their wardrobes. Brandenburg explained that he created the club because others might … More McNick students welcome “Thrifting Club”

By Ayla Dickerson At the beginning of the 2024 school year, choice reading was implemented into all English classes, allotting fifteen minutes per block class for students to read. Although this opportunity has allowed students to read topics of their interests and grow their knowledge through books, the Emily Capell Society says that to obtain the full benefits reading has to offer one must read fifteen to thirty minutes daily.  According to University of the People, reading has numerous positive effects including strengthening brain activity, boosting communication skills, enhancing creativity and reducing stress levels. Along … More Not just for choice time but for all the time; the importance of reading  

By Alex Minella As Spring Break approaches, some students are looking forward to spending their time on hobbies they enjoy, with popular activities including reading, crafts, and exercising. In a recent Milestone survey, over 50 students shared their favorite ways to stay busy.   Reading was the number one hobby among the students. Freshman Farrah Yoshida said, “I realized that it isn’t boring if it’s a fun book.” Visiting a local library near McNick is always a … More Top 3 hobbies to keep Rockets busy

By Ayla Dickerson Every year, one educator from each school in the Forest Hills School District is selected as “Educator of the Year” by the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce. Administrative assistant to the principal Mrs. Jennifer Tumser said that “although McNicholas is outside of the city limits to be considered a part of Forest … More Esz named Educator of the Year

By Meghan Runte McNicholas High School’s speech and debate class, taught by English teacher Mr. Dan Freeman, has been growing in popularity since it started in 2024. Sophomores Izzy Payne and Morgan Taleff took the initiative to begin a Speech and Debate Club, focused on sharing the skills they learned through the class.   Freeman said that he was approached by “two sophomore students … More The advent of a growing club; How speech and debate club originated

By Alex Minella In a recent Milestone survey, forty students at McNicholas High School ranked their favorite cafe lunches, with chicken nuggets taking the top spot.  Cafe manager Ms. Tanya Gorden said, “Cooking is an art; it is something that comes natural.” She also explained that quality ingredients are important when preparing meals for students. “I don’t like to serve anything that comes from a can,” she said.   Gorden said some … More Chicken nuggets take top spot in the McNicholas Cafe

By Maeve Rice From January to February, the Midwest states receive an accumulation of snow over time from anywhere between 10-30 inches, according to The Weather Channel. Not only does this affect running errands, keeping warm, or being outside, but it also affects the school day.  Principal Mr. Paul Romolo, President Mr. Bob Noll, Director of Facilities Mr. Mike Orlando, both maintenance technicians: Mr. Nathan Emmich, Mr. Tony Hall, and Manager of Facilities Mr. Chris Terry are all involved in the snow day process. Romolo said that some factors they consider when deciding … More Winter flurries: How McNick snow days are called 

By Rosie Smith Every Ash Wednesday, since the 2020-2021 school year, McNicholas adopted donating rice bowls during lent as a way to help those in need of food and to bring a new reality to the students at McNick. Each CREW is asked to fill a “rice bowl” during lent with change to fight hunger … More McNick honors rice bowl tradition

By Meghan Runte The 2026 Lenten Season in the Catholic Church started on Feb. 18 with the annual celebration of Ash Wednesday. During Lent, there are many saints that teachers and students can look to for guidance, temperance, and strength.   According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Saint Katharine Drexel, Saint Dominic Savio, Saint Patrick, and Saint … More A Lenten Season with many role models: Saints to guide us to Easter

By Alexandra Minella At McNicholas High School, students participate in Lenten commitments in different ways. While some students said they are giving something up, others are choosing to add new habits into their routine. Students are finding small, practical strategies to help themselves stay committed to their Lenten promises.   According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving … More Lenten life hacks: How Rockets stay committed

The season of Lent leading up to Easter Sunday, kicked off the time when millions of Catholics across the globe start abstaining from meat on Fridays.   According to Father Kevin Scalf, McNicholas High School teacher and chaplain, “Catholics and most Protestants abstain from eating meat on Fridays as a form of penance to honor the sacrifice of Jesus, who … More From penance to plate: The origins of Friday fish fries

With graduation approaching, the Milestone decided to see if the seniors of McNicholas High School feel prepared for life after graduation, whether that is attending college, pursuing a trade, joining the military, or immediately joining the workforce. The Class of 2026 shared their reasons for choosing their specific life paths and how faculty and staff have assisted them with feeling their level of preparedness.  Madison Zurmehly said, “Yes, I do feel prepared for life after graduation. I have my college decision [University of Louisville] and major [nursing] made, and I’m excited for the rest.”   Melinda … More Caps, gowns, and big decisions: McNicholas seniors prepare for life after graduation 

By Maeve Rice **Disclaimer: Information mentioned in this article is from research;, this is not medical advice. Please drink any levels of caffeine at your own risk and do your own research.  Caffeine at McNicholas High School seems to be a hot topic, from Alani’s to Starbucks cups. But do students really know the consequences of their drink decisions?   According to the National Library of Medicine, “The first energy drink … More Caffeine crazies: Research causes students to rethinks their drink

By Rosie Smith Seasonal depression is a common struggle amongst high school students, and because of that the reliance on phones becomes greater. When students have spent too much time on their phones, it starts to affect their social life. Ms. Missy Gomez, McNicholas’s mental health and wellness therapist, helped explain the benefits of a … More Taking a break: How phone breaks benefit students