Senior students are wrapping up their time here at AHS with only one semester left. For many seniors, government is the last fill in the box class. As they inch closer to graduation in may students have to prepare for final tests,graduation,after graduation plans and the real world outside of highschool. Many students are finalizing plans for college, trade schools and even jobs.These decisions will shape their lives and careers for the rest of their life. “Studednts interest seems to be half and half some students either grab onto it and understand it or have no interest for it.” Government teacher, Holly Esbek said. Government is a fast paced class because it is only one semester. “Government is my favorite class to teach, but there is some misinformation about the class,” said Esbek. Despite the challenges,government class offers valuable sight to responsibility and critical thinking.
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Semester 2 Government Class Begins
NEWS BRIEF
January 13, 2026
Holly Esbeck printing for her next class.
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About the Contributors
Kayedance Sturm, Staff Writer
Senior Kayedance Sturm is a hardworking and dedicated individual. Sturm joined Journalism to grow her love and passion for taking photos. Her favorite part of photography is capturing good moments. Sturm has started her own photography business that she runs outside of school.
In Sturm’s free time, she also trains horses. She owns seven horses, with her favorite being named Royal. Sturm loves being able to train them and spends time doing something she loves.
Sturm is planning to attend Northwest Missouri State in the fall of 2026. She will be majoring in Animal Science with a minor in photography. Sturm’s hard work in high school will allow her to graduate at 16, at the end of her junior year. Taking summer school classes and not having a study hall like other students allows her to have a head start on her next step in life.
Allison Berryhill, Adviser
Allison Berryhill, the advisor of the journalism program and an English teacher here at AHS has been teaching for 26 years and has been advising the journalism program for 14 years. Berryhill said, “ My favorite memory is when the room is buzzing with students working in teams and the energy is addicting.” Berryhill finds different aspects of each department in journalism fun. “The yearbook is always amazing, and our podcastors and social media team came back with great ideas from Media Now.” One thing Berryhill likes about journalism is that you need a wide range of students with different interests. “Some students shine through with social media, yearbook or taking photos,” said Berryhill.
Outside of teaching Berryhill plays the accordion, runs, juggles and loves to learn new things. She also enjoys reading and writing poetry. “Right now, I am learning Spanish on Duolingo,” Berryhill said. Berryhill would also like to shout out that the AHS journalism website has won the SNO award three years in a row.
Story by Annabelle Meyer