In their sophomore year--2013-- the class of 2016 had many achievements. For instance, the Junior Varsity girls’ volleyball team went undefeated, with a perfect record of 24-0. The track season brought now-juniors Keven McDowell and Jon Stone a state title in the 4x800 meter relay, and Ereka Bailey set two school records in the triple jump and the long jump. When asked about his reaction to winning the state title in the 4x800, Keven McDowell stated, “It felt so amazing. I had a feeling that we could do something big from the beginning of the season, and after working all season, we finally accomplished something like that. It felt really good to have all that work pay off and to be able to share that moment with my friends.” Additionally, Nathan Allgaier qualified for the Future Business Leaders of America national competition in Business Math. The class of 2016 also experienced changes, including the retirement of long time principal, Mr. Strobel, and Athletic Director and boys’ basketball coach, Mr. Steinhoff.
In 2014, The class of 2016’s junior year started off with more changes. Chromebooks, new teachers and coaches, and new classes were introduced. This year, the girls’ volleyball team won sectionals on their home floor, becoming state finalists. Juniors Lauren Bergner, Emma Borcherding, Ereka Bailey, Maddie Fleer, and Erin Scheer were all on the state team. The boys’ cross country team also made it to state, placing 4th for the first time in New Haven High School history. Juniors Keven McDowell and Jon Stone were on this team. On the flip side, the juniors had a total of 7 competitors make it to the state FBLA competition. At State, the team of Emma Borcherding, Maddie Fleer, and Dakota Schroeder had a top 8 finish for their Emerging Business Issues presentation.
At this year comes to a close, the juniors have many events to look forward to, including Student Council elections, prom decorating, prom, the state track meet, and the end-of-school kickball tournament. One important task that all juniors must complete this year is taking the the ACT, which is required by the state of Missouri, will be hosted by NHHS on April 28th, and is offered free of charge.
When asked to describe high school so far, junior Abby Perdue explained,“Freshman year, you come in, and you just want to be involved in everything. Sports, clubs, band, anything and everything--you want to be apart of. You learn to manage time. Sophomore year comes, and you’re more relaxed, laid back. Junior year approaches, and it resembles your freshman year: managing school, extracurriculars, and figuring out life. Next thing you know, it’s the summer before senior year, and you’re asking the question, “Where did the time go?’”
Overall, the class of 2016 has had many achievements throughout their 3 years of high school. Whether it be in volleyball, cross country, track, or FBLA, the class of 2016 will have a bright future ahead of them and can’t wait to tackle their senior year head on.
-Lauren Bergner