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The School Newspaper of Southwest Career and Technical Academy.

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

 A new family-run business that matcha and boba lovers will enjoy.

Sip, savor and study at ‘Teru Tea Cafe’

Zelina Panissidi, News Editor
October 13, 2025
This cafe is the perfect place to hang out with friends and order both classic drinks and specialty items.
Prizes include boba, an achievement medal with a luncheon and a special-edition cap and gown. Previously, there were no incentives given for ACT testing. “We know our students can achieve better ACT scores,” Community Partnership Coordinator Ryan Zaro said. “Their classes academically show us that they should be performing higher than what the ACT is telling us our students are performing at.”

ACT Incentives Aim to Increase Student Composite Scores

Zelina Panissidi, News Editor
October 13, 2025
Juniors taking the ACT will have the opportunity to win prizes if their composite score is 21 or above.
To celebrate the Week of Respect, Student Council member Aldrich Razon hangs up a note card on a teacher’s door to recognize the staff member. Earlier in the week, students submitted more than 100 messages through a school-wide form. “By writing letters of appreciation, we hope teachers feel more connected to their students, and students feel the same way about their teachers,” Razon said. “It’s a simple way to build a stronger school community.”

StuCo Delivers Teacher Appreciation Notes

Kobe Delos Reyes, Staff Writer
October 13, 2025
As part of a new initiative for the Week of Respect, the Student Council collected over 100 appreciation messages from students and turned them into handwritten notes posted on teachers’ doors, aiming to strengthen community and lift spirits during a stressful season.

BSU Hosts Field Day

Rylee Del Moral, Co-Shadow Files Editor
October 10, 2025
Learn about how Field Day brought students and staff together.
Hearing the weight of identity and love expressed by intricate vocals from Hand Habits' newest album, "Blue Reminder." Rating: B

‘Blue Reminder’ Explores the Complexities of Human Emotion

Aanya Miller, Staff Writer
October 10, 2025
Indie Pop/Rock band "Hand Habits" is emotionally weighted with heartfelt, slow songs, following the commitment of relationships.
Many entry-level positions are being discontinued, leaving many teens with no access to jobs, opportunities, and a brighter future.

Editorial: The Unseen Wounds of a Jobless Youth

Southwest Shadow, Editorial Board
October 9, 2025
As economic troubles in the US continue, how will this affect the teens and young adults who are just starting out in society?
Swaying and preparing to toss the tennis ball, Dylan Grove practices serving. Grove had been training in preparation for her upcoming matches against Chaparral and Doral Red Rock. “[Both teams are] both very tough opponents, but I am ready for whatever gets thrown my way,” Grove said.

A Persistent Tennis Player: Meet Dylan Grove

Karmen Cao, Staff Writer
October 9, 2025
Grove continues her tennis passion of six years, driven by her strong work ethic and close bonds with her teammates.

Welcome to the Oddest “Grocery Store”: Omega Mart

Yara Ahmed, Shadow Files Reporter
October 8, 2025
Dive deep on the interactive "grocery store" with full of mysteries.
Practicing the basic skills of nursing, sophomore Natalia Yancey gets her heartbeat checked with a stethoscope. Sophomore nursing students reviewed skills from freshman year. “I’ve always wanted to be in the medical field; it’s been my dream forever,” Yancey said. “Doing [practice skills] so early on is not only an amazing opportunity, but it helps me to prepare for my future.”

Teaching Positions in Two CTE Programs, Special Education Remain Vacant

DJ Madamba, Staff Writer
October 8, 2025
Programs Culinary and Nursing, as well as special education, face openings

Last Week In Sports: 9/28-10/4

Nino Galloway, Sports Writer
October 7, 2025