Leadership In Action. Cadets stock the ROTC fridge together during B Lunch. These small acts demonstrated how the program encouraged students to care for others and step up in meaningful ways. Everyday, cadets sat in the ROTC room and did homework, or simply had lunch with their friends. Every day, they reminded everyone that leadership wasn’t just about rank—it was about action and heart, as Chief Master Sergeant Jay Blackwell said, “Their commitment to something they absolutely didn't have to do, but they did. Every day, seeing you all come in with that attitude inspired me to be a better person.” Photo by Aadhya Patel.
On a cool Friday night under the bright stadium light, number 23 from the visiting team charges forward con defense. The crowd watches intensely from the stands.The quarterback prepares to throw while the offensive line blocks fiercely. Every player is locked in, determined to make the next big play. The tension builds, will the defense stop the drive or give up first down. He said, “Never give up on something you love.” Photo creds: Anabella Mulligan
Camden Pearson a Junior at Melbourne High and a Starting Varsity Goalie on the lacrosse team, Standing tall in the goal, this focused lacrosse goalie guards the net with intensity. Locked in and reading the offense, they manage pressure with calm precision. With adrenaline high and the game on the line, they push through every second. "Keeping a positive mindset helps me stay focused even when we're down on points, to try and help my team play better," they say, showing that mental toughness is just as key as skill. Photo By Hunter Paige
A NEW CHAPTER. Members of the book club gather together to discuss about what book they will read next. Anielle Wight (12), the club president discussed with members in Ms. Braun’s room about what they should read first, before coming to a conclusion. When Wight was asked what what genre she wanted the book to be, she said, “I hope to read more fantasy novels this year in book club, I like the genre and other members seem to like it too”. Photo taken by Melissa Amaro
NEW STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Tammy Johnson smiles at her new desk in the front office. As the new secretary at Melbourne High School, she’s ready to take on her new responsibilities. Tammy Johnson is eager to make a positive impact in her new position. Johnson shared, “I am very excited to be in my new role as Secretary. I am going to work very hard to make the transition as smooth as possible for all.” Her enthusiasm reflects the welcoming spirit of the MHS staff. Photo by: Brooke Johnson
SCI-FI: An informative Environmental Science class taught by Mrs. Collins, here at Melbourne High. With a strong will to correct misinformation, Mrs. Collins spreads the accurate information instilled within students. In class, students learn the value of the environment, as well as the strength of their impact. Through group assignments, students build teamwork, and communication skills that can be useful in real time.  This class helps students prepare for the future, even helping them to think of future educational opportunities. Mrs. Collins said “The environment is all around us, some students have a limited understanding.” This class helps further that understanding, of environmental topics. ENV SCI is helpful because, “they are a step above for job opportunities, and educational gains.” Some advice Mrs. Collins has for her students is to “appreciate the environment around us, get off your phones, and enjoy nature.”                                    Photo by Princess Islam
Meme is the theme: On the second day of spirit week, Meme day, Gabriella Stevens and Pia Mohrman dressed up as the meme “67”. Spirit week was a fun way for students to get excited for homecoming and show off their school spirit and pride. Stevens said, “I think it makes everyday more fun and boosts everyone's mood leading up to homecoming” and “It brings everyone together to participate in something.” Photo by Lily Hock.
Caption:     A Passion for Physics: Physics teacher Mr. Eduardo Gil reviews students assignments at his desk during his planning period. Originally from Columbia, Mr. Gil studied civil engineering for six years before moving to the US to teach. Mr. Gil said, “[My favorite part is] how physics describes the motions of everything in the universe”. Photo by Ayaana Gupta
Elderly Eager for Education: Senior Dominic Ciano popping open a financial algebra book within his first period dressed in his senior age. Ciano decided to go with dyed hair, that was done by his Aunt, and carried around a cane found at a good price by his Mother. “We had outfit ideas—But not really—I wanted to wear slippers, that was one thing, but I forgot to put them on.” Ciano said. Photo by Tyler Ferreira Alves Hill.
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Strike A Pose: Seniors Makalin Elton and Emily King show off their meme-day outfits. The student government voted on spirit week days, then shared them with the rest of the school. Elton enjoyed all of the choices, dressing up as Steve Harvey for meme-day and quoting the man several times. Despite this, there were some other days that she would’ve liked as well. “I wish we could’ve had a teacher student swap day but i still really like the ones we chose,” said Elton.  Photo by Kyra Chang
Motivation + Teamwork = A Great Team: Charlie Flight leaders stands in the center of a circle of cadets for their daily motivation chant. “We do motivation checks in the classroom or outside and it keeps the team motivated,” says Hayden Meagher. The flights participated in PT time every wednesday. All members left the classroom and went to the school baseball field and played games such as kickball and modified versions of Capture the Flag.  Photo by Kyle McLaren
Hoco Energy: On!! Melbourne High School’s Spirit Week brings excitement and color to the halls as students dress up and celebrated their school pride. Senior Kyle Mclaren, one of the schools newspaper editor, decides to photograph Spirit Week after he would usually skip it himself. “Usually I do not participate in spirit weeks, but this time was pretty fun” McLaren says. Photo taken by: Ava Brouard
Bulldog Spirit in Pjs: Junior Joli Bartczack at Melbourne High School shows off her Bulldog spirit in comfy Buc-ee’s pajamas during Pajama Day. Normally she doesn’t dress up for Spirit Week, but this year she joined in with her friends. “It just makes the day so much more fun when everyone gets involved,” Bartczack said. “It brings everyone together and makes school feel a little more exciting.”She’s most excited for “Anything but a Backpack Day” and said she’s looking forward to Homecoming, where she’ll wear a “pink and sparkly” dress and have a sleepover with friends after. Her advice to anyone who didn’t dress up? “Life is short, be not boring, have fun.” Photo by Lily Majors
Testing through the World: As a new freshman high school student, Emily Lemons approaches her French test with much courage and dedication. Melbourne High School has one French teacher, Madame Courtois. This school year will mark her 24th year of teaching French. Emily Lemons shows not only her focus but also her passion for learning a new language. “Taking French this year has been nothing but great adventures and new experiences” said Lemons.  Photo credit by Jayda Blanc
Chad Kirk and teacher of the year, M.s Hanus pose for a photo after Ms. Hanu learned about her award. “I learn more from them than they do from me.”  Photo by Jen Williams.
School spirit and funny sights in the halls. Senior Kyle McLaren walks through the halls carrying a storage container filled with all of his school supplies, while another student is passing by participating too. Students got to show off their creativity and school spirit with unique and funny ideas.   Photo credits: Paige Allen
Guidance Makes A Difference: Guiding student goals, new guidance member Tammie Christie joins the school this year to support students in reaching their potential. She worked to guide students not just academically, but personally as well. With 35 years of experience in education, she emphasized the importance of making thoughtful and responsible choices. “Make healthy choices, think about consequences, make good decisions, think and discuss with positive role models,” Ms Christie said.  Photo by NeAsia Taylor
PSAT Preparation: Junior Alma Molander stays focused as she works on her laptop, reflecting the dedication she brings to her studies. In preparation for the PSAT, Alma took the initiative to boost her knowledge outside the classroom. “I watched videos on YouTube to prepare,” Molander said, highlighting her proactive approach to learning. This effort helped her feel more confident and ready when it came time for the test, showing  the importance of using resources to enhance understanding. Photo By Chloe Strong
Caption: Marvell Cunningham, steps onto the field representing Melbourne Highs varsity football team, showing determination and school pride as the season unfolds. A standout athlete since freshman year , Cunningham now takes on greater challenges and leadership responsibilities. Balancing academics and athletics, he strives to inspire younger players to push their limits . “It feels amazing to play varsity for Mel High, “Cunningham said .