Skip to Main Content
The School Newspaper of Southwest Career and Technical Academy.

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Inspecting the kart, sophomores Makoa Apao and Christian Reyes make some slight adjustments to the build. The project has been led by senior Connor Wiggins. “I really like the original framework of [the kart],” sophomore Makoa Apao said. “I feel like when they originally designed it, the kart was really well built, and I really appreciate the craftsmanship on it. [Through our work], we've implemented keyhole systems to restrict access to it. We've also implemented LEDs as an underglow.”

Engineering II Students Successfully Repair Electric Kart

Johnny Tao, Staff Writer
April 30, 2025
Engineering II students teamed up to use the skills they learned in class for passion projects of their own.
Corrina Terry is running through beautiful National Parks. In the past, she has flown out to be able to participate in the races, exhibiting her determination. “I was running in the Lake Powell half marathon in Page Arizona—it was beautiful,” Terry said.

Racing around the states: Meet Corrina Terry

Brooke Weyandt, Staff Writer
April 30, 2025
Determined runner and English teacher talks through her cross country journey.
Do we shine for confidence, or do we shine for attention?

We’re Too Focused on ‘Main Character Energy’

Isabella Sandoval, Staff Writer
April 30, 2025
In a world obsessed with filters, likes, and curated identities, “main character energy” has become the new trend. But at what cost?
People are conversing through small phrases and acronyms to explain emotions without explaining too much.

Short and Sweet: A Shift in Language in the Digital Age

Angel White, Staff Writer
April 29, 2025
The constant change in social media has influenced others to change the way they communicate
With the economy starting to change, the young generation has decided to prioritize more creative-based paths.

Gen Z: Redefining Milestones

Amelia Castellanos, Staff Writer
April 25, 2025
After many generations, Gen Z is redefining traditional rites of passage.
The surge in student visa revocations began mid-March while under the Trump Administration.

America’s First Step Toward Totalitarianism

Travis McGinnis, Shadow Files Director
April 25, 2025
In today’s America, advocating pro-Palestine beliefs means deportation for pro-terrorism beliefs.
 From depression to OCD, celebrities begin being more transparent about their struggles

Celebrities Make Mental Health Mainstream

Hayden Hunt, Staff Writer
April 24, 2025
Several celebrities are making headlines as opening up about mental illness is becoming more normalized.
Students are preparing to showcase their artwork during the annual spring art show. “I’m a little nervous because I don’t show off my work outside of my close friend group,” senior Grayson Leavitt said. ”However, I think it’s a very great opportunity to present my work, and I hope people like what I have to present, especially considering how proud I am of it.”

Art Department presents ‘Threads, Pixels, and Paint’ Showcase

Jon Escala, Staff Writer
April 23, 2025
The event will be on April 24 from 5-7 p.m. in the ballroom.
Several events have been organized by the freshmen student council class to help integrate freshmen into the school community. This Thursday will be the first new student induction night. “I think freshman events are good for us to have more knowledge about what is actually going on at school,” freshman Kyra Buchheit said. “I think the freshman event will be good for the next group.”

New Student Induction Night Held For Prospective Students

Natalia Klonowski, Staff Writer
April 23, 2025
New student induction night will take place on April 24th to help new students connect, explore campus life, and kick off their high school journey.

Automotive Program Hosts: Tech Olympics

Devin Uclaray, Shadow Files Reporter
April 22, 2025
CTE students network and compete at the Tech Olympics to experience what the automotive industry holds
Designing cards, junior Katrina Siphonexay works hard on drawing. “We were making cards for the elderly,” Siphonexay said. “That’s why I chose nostalgic characters, like Teletubbies and Care Bears. We also wrote positive messages, so we could uplift their spirits.”

CLUB PREVIEW: A LOOK INTO THE WEEK OF APR. 21

Achilles Caranto, Staff Writer
April 22, 2025
HOSA collaborates with an awareness group, Jam Club prepares for their next performance, and Key Club makes Teacher Appreciation cards.
Where Are They Now: Camryn Carr

Where Are They Now: Camryn Carr

Kailie Sicolo, News Editor
April 21, 2025
Here's a look at 2016 graduate Camryn Carr's life after high school.