Rock Canyon High School's Student Newspaper

the Rock Online
As of May 2025, College Board will be changing 28 AP exams to either hybrid or fully digital tests. 13 of the school's offered AP exams will be fully digital, and 11 will be hybrid digital.
Time’s Ticking
The purple ribbon symbolizes awareness for all cancers during National Cancer Control Month. Ribbons representing individual types of cancer serve as powerful symbols of hope, unity, and support for cancer patients. Each month is dedicated to raising awareness for specific cancers and providing opportunities for education and advocacy. The purple ribbon is a powerful symbol that represents awareness for all cancers. It encourages research, support, and inclusivity in the fight against cancer.
How can you help people who are struggling with cancer this April?
Spring arrived on March 20 and warmer temperatures are expected in April and May. According to nbcnews.com in Spring the sun's rays are more concentrated than they are during winter, which creates warmer temperatures and less snow. “Spring is my favorite season because the temperatures get warmer but not too hot so its a great temperature,” Sienna Russo ‘27 said.
Do Not Fear, Spring is Here
From Feb. 14 through March 8 three French exchange students attended classes.
The Exchange Experience
State President Medha Kuntamukkla ‘25 gives out a backpack at the HOSA Store Feb. 18. Backpacks and water bottles were free for SLC attendees and exchanged for red tickets given to students at the beginning of the conference. Other HOSA merchandise was available for purchase and could be bought throughout the conference. “I had to make sure everything was running smoothly and be there as support for the members,” Kuntamukkla said. “If they had any questions, I would direct where to go, and also just helped out with registration, making sure all the chapters were checking in okay and they were all getting their rooms.”
Healthcare of Tomorrow
After earning a position on the State Officer team, Jonathan Duong ‘26 hugs Sen Yakandawala ‘26 following the conclusion of the closing ceremony Feb. 15. Duong will serve as the 2025-2026 State Treasure and aims to provide more resources and connections to small TSA chapters as well as improve navigation for members at events like the state conference. “I was so glad and proud to be there with him,” Yakandawala said. “It was easily one of my favorite moments of the state conference.”
Innovators in Action
The winter guard team makes fifth place at the state championship finals in the Denver Coliseum, March 30. The team performed to Barnes Country's “Glitter and Gold,” lead by coaches Margo Sanford, Blair Bickerton and Anna Orgren. In their class there were a total of nine groups participating, and the top five who made it to finals received a plaque. “[Walking onto the stage] is very nerve-wracking, but also very exciting as well. When you first start color guard there's a lot of anxiety and uncertainty when you first perform in front of an audience, but once you've done it for a while, it starts to become the best part of the season,” Ella West ‘25 said. “It's very fulfilling to see an audience react to something you've put your heart and soul into.”
Shining and Spinning Through the Season
Graphic depicts the NCAA Tournament bracket.
The Final Four Showdown: March Madness
Varsity Guard Brooke Harding ‘25 goes up against Cherry Creek High School Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. Harding finished off this season with a total of 380 points and will be attending Colorado Mesa University next year for basketball. The game ended in a 69-55 L. “Every win is definitely a team win. No game is won because of one person. We all need each other, and it’s amazing that we are all close because it definitely helps our chemistry,” Harding said.
Day in the Life of a Varsity Girls Basketball Player
During girls tennis tryouts Feb Anika Kaja ‘28 hits the ball while working on her forehand hits. “I thought the tryouts were really fun and I got to show my talents,” Kaja Said.
Girls Tennis Tryouts 2025
Graphic for podcast episode Insights Unfiltered: A Conversation with Nick Artinger
Insights Unfiltered: A Conversation with Nick Artinger
A fencing mask and Sabre sit on top of a fence. These two pieces of fencing equipment are the most recognizable to most people.
En Garde: Inside the sport of Sabre Fencing
On Jan. 27, 2024, Charlotte Holmberg placed third overall as a Level 10 competing for Incline Gymnastics on the beam, scoring 9.525 at the UGA Invitational in Chicago, Illinois.
The Club Sports Experience: Female High School Athletes Navigate Passion and Pressure
This picture depicts the symbol representing Autism Spectrum Disorder according to Autism Learning Partners.
It Really is a Spectrum
Varsity Guard Brooke Harding ‘25 goes up against Cherry Creek High School Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. Harding finished off this season with a total of 380 points and will be attending Colorado Mesa University next year for basketball. The game ended in a 69-55 L. “Every win is definitely a team win. No game is won because of one person. We all need each other, and it’s amazing that we are all close because it definitely helps our chemistry,” Harding said.
Day in the Life of a Varsity Girls Basketball Player
At the 2024 AAU Junior National Championships in Orlando, Florida, Riva Linga ‘28 takes the court as a middle blocker for Relentless Volleyball Club (RVC) on the 14 Z’s Nationals team, which proudly secured 64th place out of 186 teams nationwide.
Overcoming the Struggles: How Injured Students Navigate the Challenges of School
Half night sky and half day sky with clock, cloud sun and moon.
Spring Forward or Spring Fail?
Discrete Math/Prob & Stat, Geometry and Algebra 1 math teacher Rachel Carmody grades her fourth period students’ quizzes during access Feb 11. Carmody has been teaching for 19 years in total, but she started here in 2019-2020 during the pandemic. “I don’t take it personally if someone doesn’t like math, it's not everybodys’ jam,” Carmody said.
Math, Motherhood and Movement with Rachel Carmody
“A Minecraft Movie” directed by Jared Hess, released on April 4, made over 300 million dollars during its opening weekend.
What’s with “A Minecraft movie”?
The Glitch Podcast Episode Seven: Shadows Success, Minecraft Movie and Nintendo News
This episode of the Glitch Podcast covers the recent announcement of a new Pokémon game, controversy around Warner Bros. Games and Grand Theft Auto V and more.
The Glitch Podcast Episode 5: Pokémon, Patents and Products
This episode covers the release of Avowed, Fortnite’s Mortal Kombat Collaboration and Scopely’s acquisition of Niantic.
The Glitch Podcast Episode 4: Layoffs, Lawsuits and Launches.
This episode of the Glitch Podcast covers recent developments around the Nintendo Switch 2, Doom: The Dark Ages, Grand Theft Auto VI and Playstation
The Glitch Podcast Episode 3: Switch Successor, Slayers and Server Stops
This episode of the Glitch Podcast covers the announcement of new graphics cards, games and updates, movie adaptations, the winners of the 2024 Game Awards, and recent controversy.
The Glitch Podcast Episode 2: Awards, Announcements and Artificial Intelligence
This episode of the Glitch Podcast covers recent BAFTA awards nominations and charitable actions by Bethesda.
The Glitch Podcast Episode Six: BAFTAs and Bethesda
This episode covers the release of Avowed, Fortnite’s Mortal Kombat Collaboration and Scopely’s acquisition of Niantic.
The Glitch Podcast Episode 4: Layoffs, Lawsuits and Launches.
The Glitch Podcast logo.
The Glitch Podcast Episode One: Nominations, Non-Compliance and New Trends
Varsity girls soccer midfielder Leah Sheahan ‘24 hugs a friend during the Senior Night celebrations before the home game against Mountain Vista High School (MVHS) at Echo Park Stadium April 29. During Senior Night, seniors were given flowers and the opportunity to walk out and take pictures with their family as their future plans and favorite memories were announced over the speakers. The Jags tied 0-0, losing the Continental League Championship. “We were obviously the stronger team but just couldn’t find a way to score, but otherwise our connection and our intensity was really high so I’m proud of that. We just have to find the net,” defense midfielder Clara Geuzaine ‘24 said. “[Losing League] wasn’t the best. It’s better than last year and like, I know our team and we are doing really good. I don’t want to jinx it but like hopefully [we’ll do] good [in playoffs].”
The Week in Photos: April 27-May 3
The graphic introduces the video.
Prom Planning
In room 4101, Natalie Patterson ‘26, Ariana Magor ‘25 and Celina Salazar ‘25 create a poster in science teacher Kerry Reilly’s Chemistry Honors April 18. The three completed a worksheet and drawing to explain the implosion of a tank for their unit on gas laws. “At the start of class, we watched a video of the tank imploding,” Patterson said. “I think [making a drawing] is something new. I like more artsy activities.”
The Week in Photos: April 13-April 19
The graphic depicts the stress of midterms with the background of calmness after midterms is over.
A Spring Check in
This graphic shows four abstract silhouettes of Helldivers on a rocky planet. Two “Super Destroyers” fly in the sky above.
Pixel Perfect: An Ode to Liberty
Mackenzie Carson checks her computer on Feb. 26 in her office. Counselors are here to help students with graduation and their mental health. “I think there is a lot more awareness of it (mental health) and still acknowledging that people can struggle with mental health, but I think there's also a lot more people struggling with mental health concerns,” Carson said.
Not Alone
Lily Perry ‘27 holds a Red Bull in her car on Feb. 19. According to the USDA, the average amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee is 95 mg. Most energy drinks contain 100-300 mg of caffeine according to the Mayo Clinic Health System. “My favorite drink is Red Bull,” Perry said. “I drink about four or five in a week.”
Too Hyper
The graphic depicts "Pressure on students during course registration" and the questions that come along with it.
Navigating the Chaos: Managing Anxiety During Subject Registration
The 67th Grammys took place Sunday, Feb. 2 at the Crypto.com Center in Los Angeles, California. Hosted by comedian Trevor Noah, the show saw performances and awards, along with special recognition and fundraising for the Los Angeles fire relief efforts.
OPINION: The Scammys’ Biggest Snubs
The Note to Self column logo
Note to Self #2: More is Less
The Note to Self column logo
Note to Self #1: Application Anxiety
The Note to Self column logo.
Note to Self: Introduction
The graphic reads "PROM TIMELINE" to introduce the article.
Step-by-Step for the Special Night: A Timeline for a Night to Remember
A visual depicts a set dining spot surrounded by the words “Step-by-Step for the Special Night” to introduce part two of the three-part Prom series.
Step-by-Step for the Special Night: Cuisine Scenes
A visual depicts a tuxedo surrounded by the words "Step-by-Step for the Special Night" to introduce part one of the three-part Prom series.
Step-by-Step for the Special Night: Dress to Impress
Rock Canyon High School's Student Newspaper

the Rock Online
Rock Canyon High School's Student Newspaper

the Rock Online
Baylie Van Horn Turnidge

Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter

Hey! My name is Baylie Van Horn Turnidge. I am a freshman and this is my first year on staff. In my free time, I listen to music, play guitar, rock climb and watch movies. I am also a part of Drama and Improv Club. I am looking forward to being able to report and take pictures of big events and bring light to smaller ones.

All content by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
Faith Miller '27 holds her team's trophy as the Powder Puff tournament winner Sept. 19 in the gym during the Homecoming Assembly. Powder Puff was played on Sept. 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. which resulted in a win for The Hunters. "I was the youngest and only sophomore on the team and it was really cool to help and teach them how to play because some of them didn't know and I have experience in flag football,” Miller said.

[Photo] The Closing Ceremony: A Look Back on the Homecoming Assembly

by Sanaa Sow, Editor in Chief
September 25, 2024
Nick TeSelle ‘25 works on the “WayLessSad” merch website Aug. 29. WayLessSad is aiming to collaborate with Better Help and make its own hotline to be there for those who need immediate help. “Eventually I'd like to have in-house psychiatrists and psychologists that you can talk to on call whenever you need,” TeSelle said.

Working Towards Becoming “WayLessSad” with Nicholas TeSelle

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
September 6, 2024
END THE SILENCE ON GUN VIOLENCE

OPINION: End the Silence on Gun Violence

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
May 24, 2024
This graphic depicts a headline to introduce the story on conserving energy.

Get Your Green On

by Ally Kelley and Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
May 23, 2024
RCTV teacher and Film Fest host Jim McClurg adjusts the camera for the Film Fest red carpet April 8. This year, there were 11 main categories for awards that could be won. “I think RCTV is just a little bit different than most classes. It allows kids to kind of express their creativity. By using digital media to tell stories, learning all the technical aspects and things during the broadcast side. We're also doing that kind of experimental kind of film-type videos too. So, try to allow them to do everything when they're in here. So when they leave they have a lot of skills they can walk out with,” McClurg said.

Roll Out the Red Carpet

by Gabe Mascitti and Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
May 13, 2024
On Feb. 24, Emerson Yu ‘24 climbs a roped route during the girls’ varsity competition. Participants had three hours to complete a total of five routes: two roped, two bouldering and one of their choice. “I started climbing about a year and a half ago,” Yu said. “I didn’t start competing until my senior year, which I kind of regret because I love it so much. The rock climbing community is great.”

Reaching New Heights

by River Brown and Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
March 14, 2024
Student Press Freedom Day takes place today, Feb. 22. The day celebrates the student journalists, whose rights are the same as professionals. This means that students can write about controversial topics and the administration cannot legally get involved in Colorado public schools. “[I think students should have equal rights] in principle, I think obviously, being that we’re a school, there's probably some things. I can see certain parent groups having a problem and that doesn't necessarily mean that you shouldn't write about them, but maybe [have] some kind of stakeholder. Because being a minor is tricky,” teacher librarian Jason Parker said.

Top 10 Facts of Student Press Freedom Day

by Ally Kelley, River Brown, Avalon Nielsen, and Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
February 22, 2024
The graphic displays the Battle of the Bands advertising poster with a "POSTPONED" sign over it. The event was cancelled in November, with no specific future date announced.

A Battle of the Bands Update

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
February 7, 2024
Cindy Baker gives feedback on the understudy rehearsal of "Murder on the Orient Express" Nov. 16. "Murder on the Orient Express" showed Nov. 15, 16 and 17. Tickets were sold at $5 for students and $7 for adults.

FRIDAY FACULTY FEATURE: Backstage with Baker

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
February 2, 2024
Zoe Kandel ‘27 lays on the stage floor to dramatically act out her character Jan. 17. Members of Improv Club came up with ideas on spot, and practiced how to act them out fully on stage. “Improv Club is all about community and learning and having fun together. I recommended it to anyone and everyone,” Kandel said.

Introducing Improv

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge and Rosie Benson
January 30, 2024
Natalie Patterson ‘26 fixes a prop purse for the fall play, “Murder on the Orient Express,” Nov. 7. “Murder on the Orient Express” shows in the auditorium on Nov. 15, 16 and 17. “I am on props and I like being in the crew because I get to see the behind-the-scenes of shows. I’ve enjoyed working on ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ because the set and props are very cool for this play, and it’s awesome to see everything coming together,” Patterson said.

[Photo] The Week in Photos: Nov. 4-Nov. 10

by Staff
November 12, 2023
Battle of the Bands starts at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 20. The event takes place at the Skylark Lounge and there is a $15 entrance fee. A QR code leads participating bands to a sign-up sheet. Media courtesy of Happy Crew

Battle of the Bands

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
November 15, 2023
Cate Walls ‘26 walks her One Act group through an exercise to figure out where they need energy in their performance Aug. 28. The One Acts kicked off the year for Drama Club Sept. 8. “I would love to direct a One Act, I actually plan on directing in the spring,” Walls said. “I have directed before, with Oliver Conrad, and [I found] I love directing because it’s a whole different perspective. I love that aspect because I love being able to build something up and see it all come together beautifully.”

Hobbies: Staying True to You

by Baylie Van Horn Turnidge, Reporter
October 20, 2023
The Homecoming Bonfire burns in the night Sept. 21. According to Fire Science, the fire was approximately 25 ft. high and 500 degrees Celsius. “The Homecoming Bonfire is always a cool tradition to be a part of and it’s cool to see the fire itself and how high it can get,” Mason Conrad ‘24 said.

The Heat of The Moment: A Homecoming Bonfire Recap

by Avalon Nielsen and Baylie Van Horn Turnidge
September 29, 2023
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