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I never got to say goodbye. I didn’t know he was going to die. He fought with fire, But his flame expired. Why, when joy appears, Must it twist into tears? But then— crunch, Smash—it broke my heart so fast. My life’s a never-ending funeral. I don't bother with friends anymore. They come, they go— They haunt me like ghosts. Grief and I, together we remain. Time seems slow, a constant strain. Stage four is where I’m lain, My anxiety consumes me, makes me roar in pain. Am I losing my mind? Or am I just tired—too tired to try? I waste away in bed for weeks, My body crumbles, my spirit shrinks. Shower? No. I ache, I cry, Each hour like a heavy sigh. I sleep. And sleep. And sleep. Hoping the darkness will fade, Dodging grief one more day.

Recently, St. Lucie County has experienced its fair share of the teacher shortage plaguing Florida, and the situation at Centennial High School is becoming increasingly challenging due to our growing student population. With the rise in student numbers, Centennial has had to adapt by redistributing students across the limited staff. One solution has been to move students who have consistently excelled in regular classes into honors classes, and those excelling in honors into AP or AICE classes. This shift aims to make room for students who are struggling and ensure they receive a fair chance at learning. However, the shortage of teachers for specific subjects has led to overcrowded classrooms, and even storage rooms have been repurposed to accommodate the overflow. This problem affects not only teachers but also students. Some staff members, overwhelmed by the increasing workload and class sizes, have left for other schools or retired. However, some teachers, despite the fluctuating classroom sizes and workloads, have decided to stay. After speaking with two long-standing teachers who plan to remain at the school, they shared some motivational words. One of them, Mr. Skurnick, an AICE U.S. History teacher who has been at Centennial for over 20 years, and the other, Mrs. Kaiser, who has been teaching for over 40 years, provided valuable insights. What Inspires Teachers to Teach? When asked what inspired them to teach, Mr. Skurnick explained that, for him and most of his colleagues, it comes down to the students: "Each student in your class provides an opportunity to make a human connection, to watch maturity happen right in front of your eyes." Mrs. Kaiser echoed similar sentiments, saying that her inspiration comes from both the subject and the students: "The inspiration for most teachers comes from their students and the ability to interact with them and have a positive impact on them." How Do Teachers Feel About Increasing Class Sizes? When asked how they felt about the rising number of students, the teachers offered two different perspectives. Mr. Skurnick pointed out the lag schools face when student populations increase: "Classes are always going to get overloaded until new schools are built." Mrs. Kaiser, on the other hand, emphasized the demands placed on teachers with larger class sizes: "With so many students, you have to make more accommodations and try your hardest to plan learning activities for all these classes while also falling behind on what's expected to be learned by the end of the semester." Can Teachers Still Prioritize Students Needing Extra Support? Lastly, both teachers were asked if they could still prioritize students who need extra help in such large classes. In their own words, both teachers admitted that it becomes more challenging to form the necessary connections with each student who might need an extra push. Despite the growing challenges, teachers remain dedicated to their students. They believe they are working with purpose, regardless of obstacles such as increased workloads, difficulties in keeping up with study plans, and a lack of personal connection with their students. These teachers continue to persevere. However, students also have a role to play. Teachers strongly encourage students to communicate with them and actively participate in class discussions and activities. This engagement not only ensures that students learn but also helps teachers receive the feedback they need to better support their students' education.

By: Carleigh Crooks On Wednesday, September 18th, Clubs at Centennial kicked off the Fall Festival bright and early, arranging their purchasable goods and preparing supplies for their club’s activity tables. Each club showcased their unique offerings, drawing students in with colorful decor, interactive activities, or sweet treats. Cen10’s GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) Club sold bracelets and other accessories while Journalism Club sold canvases and boxes for students to paint. The Spanish Club brought some friendly competition to the festival with their limbo challenge, and Student Government hosted a donut eating contest. Meanwhile, in the heart of the courtyard, the Diamond Dance Team captivated the crowd with an energetic performance. The festivities didn’t end there, though! The much-anticipated Dunk Tank stole the show. Students eagerly lined up to take their shot at dunking Centennial’s staff members—Principal Popwell, Coach T, Dean Ingram, and Mr. Swalwell. Students were able to purchase 3 attempts at throwing a tennis ball at the target to trigger the dunk tank to send staff members splashing into the water below! Inside the gym, some of our more athletically inclined students showed off their skills in basketball and volleyball games, dunking and digging their way to victory. Meanwhile, outside on the field, students took part in soccer matches while the bounce house towered nearby putting the “Festive” in Fall Festival. Speaking of the bounce house, the results are in! When asked, students made it clear—teens are definitely not too old for bounce houses. With no hesitation, they jumped and slid alongside their classmates and friends, enjoying every moment without judgement. Now that’s what fun looks like! The scent of scrumptious food filled the air as six food trucks lined up for students to grab some grub throughout the festival. Students tested their patience in lines for baked goods, soft drinks, and salads to start their morning off on the right foot—a satisfying one, indeed. Classmates seated themselves outside alongside the club activity tables, making sure not to miss out on any of the action, while chowing down on their yummy snacks together. Students had the chance to request their favorite songs by scanning a QR code provided in the Fall Festival PowerPoint presentation. Hits from artists like Juice WRLD and Travis Scott were requested and played, as well as songs from other popular artists. The music added a chill vibe to the festive atmosphere. Overall, the Fall Festival was a smashing success, bringing together students, staff, and clubs for a day of food, games, and school spirit. Whether students were enjoying treats, participating in games, or attempting to dunk staff members, everyone left reluctantly, not quite ready for the fun to end.

As Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off, Centennial students share their thoughts on what this special celebration means to them. From September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals across the United States. At our school, students from different backgrounds reflect on the importance of their heritage and the impact it has on their daily lives. For senior Jessica Dorvil, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the Hispanic community. "It means to celebrate all the Hispanic people who have really impacted our lives and bettered the lives of Hispanics," she explains. Jessica’s Dominican roots are deeply embedded in her day-to-day experiences, especially at home. "Our culture, you know, it's everywhere within my home, on our walls to our food." Rihanna Garcia, another senior, shares a similar sentiment. To her, Hispanic Heritage Month is about recognizing the diversity within the Hispanic community itself. "My culture and every other similar culture gets celebrated, and I think that's really important in a country that's so diverse," says Rihanna, who is Belizean. She finds joy in observing how her heritage differs from other Hispanic cultures, and she balances her identity as both a Belizean and an American. "My parents are directly from Belize, so we live differently, we eat differently, we act differently. It’s a balance of that Florida life and that Belizean life." Junior Angelo Gonzalez also finds that Hispanic Heritage Month brings people together. "All these people come together, and they have a lot of fun... representing themselves as a part of a family," he shares. For Angelo, spending time with his family is an essential part of staying connected to his Colombian heritage. He values the trips he takes every year to Colombia, saying, "I go to Colombia every year to see my family and, you know, I love them and the opportunity to see them." These moments are precious to him, especially since he only gets to visit them once a year. As these students reflect on their experiences, one thing becomes clear: Hispanic Heritage Month is not just about honoring the past, but about embracing identity in the present. It’s a time to celebrate where they come from, strengthen their ties to their culture, and share their unique stories with the world. At St. Lucie West Centennial High School, Hispanic Heritage Month serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and inclusion. It’s a time to celebrate, to reflect, and to appreciate the unique experiences that each student brings to our community

It’s the start of the school year, the beginning of this year’s sports, and the kickoff to the fall season! Here is some news regarding a few of our sports teams here at Centennial: Volleyball The varsity volleyball team has been performing very well this season, with 10 wins and only seven losses. I attended their game against Treasure Coast High School, and the school spirit was incredible! Fans were chanting and cheering with every point, pushing our team closer to victory. In that particular game, the team had a major win, taking all three sets in a row, 3-0. Let’s hope they continue their success throughout the season! Boys' Golf The boys' golf team is off to a solid start, boasting a 1-0 record. I interviewed one of the players after their match against Fort Pierce Central High School, and they’re feeling confident about their performance. The future looks bright for the boys' varsity golf team! Football The varsity football team currently holds a record of 2-4, with victories over both Wellington High School and Bayside High School. The player with the top rushing yards per game is Giovany Rivera-Alan, averaging 39.5 yards per game. Emmanuel Dorelus, Jr. leads in receiving yards, averaging about 41.2 yards per game. Let’s wish them luck in their upcoming games this season!

Transcript Wing Span 0:01 What's your name? Vincent Lopez 0:01 My name is Vincent Lopez. Wing Span 0:03 What do you consider your biggest accomplishment so far, and how did you achieve it? Vincent Lopez 0:05 I would say my biggest accomplishment would be qualifying for regionals for HOSA. I went to Kaiser university with my peers, and I competed to try to get the Nationals. Despite not winning, I was able to have a lot of new experiences, and I had a lot of fun doing it. Wing Span 0:28 Who or what inspires you the most, both in and out of school. Vincent Lopez 0:33 In school, I would say my friends inspire me because I'm competing with them and I'm always trying to be better than sigma is in out of school. I would say my family inspires me, because my sister is in college and I want to try and also go to college as well. Speaker 1 0:47 Nice, nice, okay. Is there any advice you would give to other students looking to follow in your footsteps? Vincent Lopez 0:57 Of course, I would say never procrastinate your work. I do that every single time. I never learn, but I'm just giving advice out. Just don't procrastinate it, even though I do, it's not good. Just don't procrastinate. Wing Span 1:08 But you gotta practice what you preach. Vincent Lopez 1:11 I preach it, but I don't teach it. Wait, I do teach. Speaker 1 1:16 Okay. Last question, what's one fun fact about you that most people might not know. Vincent Lopez 1:22 One fun fact about me is that I play Overwatch, and I'm masters in Overwatch, a really high rank. And I would say myself that I am pretty decent at the game. Some people aren't as good at the game as others, and I'm at the top half, upper half.

The stormy seas, a raging tide, Threatened to claim his ship as its pride. But Captain James, a hero true, Fought to save his crew, through and through. He stood at helm, unyielding and strong, As waves crashed hard, and winds sang wrong. His eyes scanned seas, for a glimpse of shore, His heart beat fast, with a father's roar. "Hold on, men!" he shouted above, "We'll ride this tempest, with skill and love!" His voice calmed fears, as waves did rise, And crewmen clung, with desperate eyes. Through raging night, he steered with might, Tacking and turning, with a sailor's light. His ship creaked, groaned, but held its ground, As Captain James wrestled the tempest around. Dawn broke, and stormy skies did clear, The crew cheered, as their captain drew near. Exhausted, worn, but unbroken still, He smiled, relieved, his crew's lives to fill. "Your bravery saved us," they did say, "We owe our lives to you, this day." Captain James smiled, with humble pride, "My duty, men, to keep you by my side." His legacy lived, forever told, A captain's courage, in a stormy hold. A hero's heart, that beat for his crew, A shining star, forever shining true

Carleigh Crooks and Kayleigh Jurasz

Helsy Hernandez -- a sister, a friend, a daughter, and a student at St. Lucie West Centennial High School has brought kindness and compassion. She strives to spread positive affirmations towards her friends, family, and new people.  As she graduates to the next grade, she is always looking to improve from the last year. She wasn't aware of the rewards given at her school, nor was she aware of the Wingspan as a whole. The Wingspan has rewarded multiple students throughout this school year and with this knowledge. In addition, Helsy mentions how “really thankful” she is for receiving this honor. She makes sure that people don't feel alone around her and always communicates to others that she is always there for them. Not only with other classmates, but she also focuses on creating strong bonds with her instructors at St Lucie West Centennial High School. Inside the survey link provided by The Wingspan where students and teachers can elect their opinion of who should be student of the month that they think should be recognized. Evidently enough, a student notes that Helsy is “such a kind soul to everyone” and doesn't think twice before lending a helping hand at any moment in time. Everyone has their support system and those who guide them through their social life or school life. Hernandez says that, for her, it was: “My friends and my sister really helped me throughout high school”. Some may think it comes naturally to Helsy but when asked Helsy states that she was taught these actions through her mother, father, and older sister. Her older sister, Alexa, who also went to St Lucie West Centennial High School, was a factor in building character and living with integrity. She follows in her sister's footsteps in the sense of her wanting her friends that she met from her soccer team and friends from her class have also encouraged her to be approachable and open to new opportunities that may appear before her. The Student of the Month reward doesn't award students that show temporary acts of student engagement and academic success. Furthermore, The Wingspan attempts to find students who plan to have long-term achievements for themselves. During her interview, it was asked what her plans were for the future to grow for the better and how she aims to maintain positive behavior everywhere she goes. She answers that question by letting us know, that she's striving to “really get good grades” while in her senior year of school and continue helping others, spreading kindness, and being an academic weapon. Currently, Helsy is involved in many programs, honor classes, and clubs at St Lucie West Centennial High School. Since her sophomore year, she has been in soccer in and out of school, whether that's playing with friends or playing with classmates. This is her second year in the health science program that teaches students skills for working in hospitals, clinics, or doctor's offices as a nurse. She plans to continue in the health science program provided at St Lucie West Centennial High. Using the Health Science program, the third level of the program allows students to gain experience working at a nursing home as a CNA. Her short-term goals right now are to earn her CMAA certificate which allows her to work as a medical assistant in a clinic and her CPR certification.  Helping others no matter their background with kindness and no prejudice is Helsy’s passion and finds comfort in advocating for people who aren't able to do it themselves. As a junior, she is on the girls' soccer team and attends multiple fundraisers to promote the club. For her last year of high school, she holds the same values of community and being involved in the school. Helsy states she plans to “join clubs to help people out” not only for her high school experience but for college and outside of school. Lastly, she plans to further her knowledge about health science at Indian River State College, after high school to pursue her dreams of providing aid as a certified nurse all while participating in extracurriculars. Helsy Hernadez never fails to form communities within the organization she's involved in.

Notable changes have been made during this school year, and one of them is switching back to physical hall passes from the former E-Hall pass. As we approach the end of the year, it's imminent to assess the efficiency of this decision, and students surely did not hold back in expressing their opinions. Out of the 20 responses from our Instagram poll, 70% of students say that the decision was effective, while 30% say that it is effective, but more improvements have to be made. None of our respondents have said that the decision was not effective. Some even elaborated on their answers, with user enbyeonjun saying "Yes, it's so much better than that e hall pass stuff." An anonymous responder also shared an experience, saying that it is "Highly effective, never go back to [E-Hall pass] it was very chaotic and also upsetting to watch because I once had a friend with bathroom issues in my class, felt terrible." Taking all of this into account, it seems crystal clear that students do not want to go back into using the E-Hall pass.

As we have passed February 2024, we should acknowledge how our historical black figures changed history for Americans throughout the years. I was delighted to interview Ms. Popwell for her insight into Black History Month. We stayed inside St. Lucie West Centennial High School's library to begin the interview. Ms. Popwell has been principal for over 15 years and manages daily tasks throughout the school. The questions as to Principal Popwell were created by Nathan Oliver-Hamilton, filmed by Robert Dy, and read by me. “We have various opportunities,” Principal Popwell says as she discussed the evolution of how black history and her interpretation of how it is celebrated in St Lucie West Centennial. Her response was about “the various Black History activities days throughout February." I then asked how she would make sure Black History is being recognized months past after the memorable month of February. Popwell responded by notifying us that St Lucie West Centennial High School offers an African American History course that students can take. She reflected on her commitment to having an inclusive community and allowing people grace to express themselves as they identify with their culture. Popwell, throughout the years, has appreciated all the black leaders before her who has made a way for future black leaders. Her leadership style has changed by allowing our majorette team to perform at lunch and share the culture of rich southern black heritage with music or attire. She continues to share her personal experiences: My mom had me when she was 16. I grew up in a single-family home, didn't have any money. But my mom always prioritized education so I've always placed a high value on education, and if you do that then the sky's the limit. She feels that the current climate of the United States makes it difficult to freely express themselves or promote dialogue without fear of repercussion. In encouraging conversations and culture appreciation among the people in St Lucie West Centennial, some people will feel like cultures present differently and people may perceive it as offensive or inappropriate. To ensure safety and community within this high school, I asked her how she would address the negative effects of promoting Black History Month. For Black History Month, for every school day, the students could participate in the days pertaining to each day like Melanin Day and 70s Day. After the interview was over, Popwell adds “when I was growing up if you were darkskin like there was tension between light skin and dark skin African Americans." She proceeds to say, “I think that we embrace all shades of brown which is awesome because we should support one another” and “You shouldn't be treated differently because you're lighter or darker." St. Lucie West Centennial cherishes the works and efforts Ms. Popwell has made to boost culture appreciation and recognition for our diverse community. It's the principal's duty to make sure both staff and students are heard and find solutions to those disconnects. For Black History it is important to recognize our current black leaders and figures, and for Centennial it is no other than Ms. Popwell.