The School Newspaper of Southwest Career and Technical Academy.

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow
Tishie Nyitray

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief

Hi everyone! My name is Tishie and I’m the Editor in Chief. I am so excited to help everyone learn and grow this year and I can’t wait to see what we’re all able to do!

All content by Tishie Nyitray
Photo Credit: Arcade Encarnacion

The Maze of Mental Disorders

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
April 17, 2023

Podcast: Onto the Next Chapter

Podcast: Onto the Next Chapter

Tishie Nyitray, Hannah Paine, Lily Gurdison, and Ashley Harris
March 22, 2023
Growing up, moving out and moving on. The reality seniors are facing during fourth quarter.
Hoping to create a positive school environment and contribute to the community, Student Council is hosting a food drive for the Nevada Project for Homeless Youth. “As a school we want to help the less fortunate community and provide them with the resources we can,” Design Academy Vice President Kiersten Simmons said. “Students can see that this issue is troubling for the community and give back in any way that they possibly can.”

STUCO collecting donations for ‘Sunshine kits’

Tishie Nyitray and Hannah Paine
March 8, 2023
Group hopes to collect enough materials to assemble 100 kits.
Virtual Distance Learning for all non-11th Graders on ACT Day

Virtual Distance Learning for all non-11th Graders on ACT Day

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
March 6, 2023
Virtual learning on ACT Day for grades 9, 10 and 12.
Touching up highlights on a skirt, senior Karim Abd-Elmalek finishes the first design in his collection. The runway show will be held in mid-April. “I definitely have to not procrastinate on this,” Abd-Elmalek said. “I think we will get it done, I just have to manage my time well so I am able to get all of the elements I want in my finished garment.”

Pattern Drafting Seniors Begin Designing Capstone

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
February 10, 2023
Seniors in Pattern Drafting are illustrating their capstone collections.
Meeting with students, counselors help them select courses for next year. In CCSD, counselors will now use past test scores to assist with course placement. “I am trying to figure out what classes I will need to take next year, while still having to focus on finishing this year,” junior Dani Hernandez said. “I feel like this whole system will help in some ways but always put more pressure on students.”

New Course Recommendation System in CCSD implemented this month

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
February 6, 2023

Meeting with students, counselors help them select courses for next year. In CCSD, counselors will now use past test scores to assist with course placement. “I am trying to figure out what classes I...

As seniors’ last semester begins, information regarding Grad Nite is being shared with students. The spots will be released on a first-come, first-serve basis. “I feel like every senior looks forward to Grad Nite,” senior Sierra Prescia said. “It is one of the only times we get to go out of state on a trip with our friends from school. It is also nice that it is all preplanned and arranged, it seems a lot less stressful.” Photo Credit: Tyler Nix

Grad Nite Meeting Tomorrow; New STUCO Adviser’s First Time Planning

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
January 11, 2023
Meeting in the gym will give an overview on upcoming the Grad Nite.
What Makes an Adult?

What Makes an Adult?

Tishie Nyitray
January 11, 2023
Do people magically become adults on their eighteenth birthday? Or does more go into this label?

Conclusion

Tishie Nyitray
December 15, 2022

Legally, people may be considered an “adult” on their eighteenth birthday, however, it takes more than that to actually be one. At any age, people can act like children, and at any age, people can...

SCHOOL OPERATIONS CLOSED FOR WINTER BREAK

SCHOOL OPERATIONS CLOSED FOR WINTER BREAK

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
December 14, 2022
In observance of semester exams and Winter Break, the regular posting schedule and school operations will continue on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
Presenting with her group, junior Ava Smith guides the class in their trivia game. All of the questions were related to the ecological hazards in China. “We did a lot of research before we created our questions so we had an explanation after every round,” Smith said. “The audience was really engaged and everyone kept track of their points.”

Environmental 101 Students Create Hazard Presentations

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
December 7, 2022
Students research different countries' environmental and ecological hazards.
SCHOOL OPERATIONS CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING BREAK

SCHOOL OPERATIONS CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING BREAK

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
November 22, 2022
School operations are closed for Thanksgiving Break and will resume on November 28.
Talking one-on-one with Irene Bustamante Adams

Talking one-on-one with Irene Bustamante Adams

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
November 3, 2022
Learn more about Clark County Board of Trustees hopeful Irene Bustamante Adams.
Using her mom's old dress, senior Alexandra Ferran finishes a seam. Their completed designs must be done before November 4. “I recently had to change the direction I was going in, but luckily I found this fabric in some old stuff my mom had so I think I'll finish in time,” Ferran said.

Pattern Drafting Students Create Hunger Games inspired Costumes

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
November 1, 2022
Using recycled materials to create dystopian dresses.
INFOGRAPHIC: How to spot fake news

INFOGRAPHIC: How to spot fake news

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
October 21, 2022
Learn how to be aware of false facts on the internet.
“What I’m most excited about the fall season would probably be the colder weather,” freshman Alyssa Gittinger said. “Also the pumpkin patches and Halloween parties with friends.”

Q&A: Which of the following fall activities are you most excited for?

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
October 21, 2022
Students let us know what they are most looking forward to this fall season.
Receiving the tardy slip, junior Dani Hernandez receives their first tardy of the year. Over the past two weeks dozens of studnets have been caught in the tardy lockouts. “Students are literally trying to get to class, we want to be there, but if we are just a couple seconds late we get punished,” junior Dani Hernandez said. “I think that depending on where the student is coming from there should be some sort of leeway to not get punished the same way students who are actively trying to not go to class.”

Tardy Lockouts increase as number of late students steadily grows

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
October 14, 2022
Administration focusing on lowering infractions.
Gov. Steve Sisolak lifts Nevada state mask mandate. Art Credit

BREAKING: Penrod becomes Nevada Teacher of the Year Finalist

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
October 11, 2022
Honoring dedicated teachers around the state.
"I don't know a ton about the current situation, but I feel as though it is only fair for King Charles III to return these realms," junior Ella Abilar said.

Q&A: Should King Charles III release the Commonwealth Realms?

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
September 23, 2022
Students share their opinions on this controversial royal topic.
VIB: This weekend in Las Vegas 9/23/22

VIB: This weekend in Las Vegas 9/23/22

Tishie Nyitray, Editor in Chief
September 23, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
After being announced as the new VP of Fundraising, junior Colin Chamberlain participates in the "Penny for Your Thoughts" icebreaker. FCCLA plans on attending the upcoming symposium. “I can’t wait to show people what’s in store with FCCLA this year,” FCCLA President Karim Abd-Elmalek said. “We plan to display our projects and spread the word about our upcoming events.”

[Photo] CLUB LEADERS TO MEET FOR FIRST SYMPOSIUM

Philipos Alebachew
September 19, 2022

After being announced as the new VP of Fundraising, junior Colin Chamberlain participates in the "Penny for Your Thoughts" icebreaker. FCCLA plans on attending the upcoming symposium. “I can’t wait...

Technology and Entertainment, It’s All A Mind Game

Crystalyn Estabillo, Gray Barranco, and Tishie Nyitray
September 14, 2022

Wake up. Grab your phone. Scroll through social media for long periods of time. A typical routine for Generation Z. One of Generation Z’s defining features is the connection between social media and...

The first case of monkeypox has been reported at Palo Verde. After less than a month in school, a new national health emergency has reached CCSD. “Most of my friends and people at school are reacting in the same way I did,” Palo Verde Sophomore Spencer Ladd said. “Honestly it mostly became a joke among my peers.” Photo Credit: Palo Verde HS, Las Vegas, Jul 2017 © Sunnya343, CC BY-SA 4.0

First Monkeypox Case Reported in CCSD School

Tishie Nyitray
September 1, 2022
Viral infection cases rising in schools nationwide.

The student impact

Tishie Nyitray, Rhamil Taguba, and Naila Yazdani
August 29, 2022

Reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, CCSD adopted several new grading policies for teachers to implement for a more efficient transition to in-person learning. The minimum 50% policy, suspension of punishing...

VIB: This weekend in Las Vegas 8/19/22

VIB: This weekend in Las Vegas 8/19/22

Tishie Nyitray
August 19, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
INFOGRAPHIC: The Uneven Progress in STEM Careers

INFOGRAPHIC: The Uneven Progress in STEM Careers

Tishie Nyitray
May 4, 2022
Specifically, Black and Hispanic workers are underrepresented in STEM jobs.
After years without any issues with graffiti, administrators are noticing an increase in vandalism. Students who are found contributing to the vandalism will face disciplinary action. "I always hear about the drawings in the boy's bathroom, and they are always the most immature things.” junior Alyssa Miguel said. "One of my guy friends even saw a sandwich in the toilet once." Photo Credit: Tishie Nyitray

Ongoing Vandalism forces action from administrators

Tishie Nyitray
April 20, 2022
Restroom escorts added to 'D' building to monitor behavior.
“I don’t think that NATO should intervene with the Russia-Ukraine conflict unless Russia attacks any NATO countries,” sophomore Lauren Taylor said. “If we do intervene it will be world war lll and that definitely won’t be fun for anyone that is involved.”

Q&A: Do you believe NATO should intervene with the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

Tishie Nyitray
March 16, 2022
Students share their opinions on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
While researching a topic for her Communications speech, junior Francesca Lungu cannot access her topic because it flags GoGuardian restrictions. The number of restrictions that are put in place by GoGuardian can are hindering students' learning opportunities. “I really wish that everyone was forced to use the Chromebooks for one week,” Communications teacher Henry Castillo said. “Everyone in the district, the superintendent, the principal, for one week.” Photo Credit: Tishie Nyitray

‘GoGuardian’ is meant to improve school security but is doing the opposite

Tishie Nyitray
March 10, 2022
Protection application taking away educational access.
Trustees' responses to student violence will be covered in a Thursday meeting. The thousands of violent incidents reported this school year have caused concern among some policymakers. Photo Credit: CCSD

Wave of school violence prompts response from board of trustees

Ahmed Ahmed and Tishie Nyitray
March 7, 2022
A March 10 board meeting will center around potential solutions to the campus incidents.
While reviewing bedside procedures necessary for the nursing field, junior Vanessa Thou prepares for the “End of Program” test. After three years in their program, the EOP is designed to test students’ knowledge. “I’m reviewing my old notes as well as anything that could be considered important to know, which is a lot,” Thou said. “I have also been reviewing the standards so I can have a better understanding of what could appear throughout the test.” Photo Credit: Tishie Nyitray

Students complete End of Program Tests

Tishie Nyitray
February 25, 2022
Students have completed their programs’ EOP.
Fast Fashion’s Impact on Younger Generations

Fast Fashion’s Impact on Younger Generations

Tishie Nyitray, Hannah Paine, and Lily Gurdison
February 15, 2022
Today, we discuss how quickly current fashion trends are cycling through social media and how stores like Shein and Zara are only adding to the issue.
Gov. Steve Sisolak lifts Nevada state mask mandate. Art Credit

BREAKING: Mask Mandate Lifted in CCSD

Ahmed Ahmed and Tishie Nyitray
February 10, 2022
The mandate has been a subject of intense controversy in the district.
Q&A: Do you support artists, such as Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, removing their content from Spotify over COVID misinformation?

Q&A: Do you support artists, such as Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, removing their content from Spotify over COVID misinformation?

Tishie Nyitray
February 8, 2022
Students voice their opinions on artists' rights.
The official announcement from the CCSD Twitter. Courtesy of CCSD Communications

BREAKING NEWS: CCSD adjusts calendar for a five-day pause

Gurleen Swaich and Tishie Nyitray
January 11, 2022
Increasing staff shortages and student absences have made the District adjust the 2022 calendar in order to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Q&A: Have you heard about the new COVID-19 variant: Omicron?

Q&A: Have you heard about the new COVID-19 variant: Omicron?

Tishie Nyitray
December 4, 2021
We asked students about their opinion on the new Coronavirus variant.
Thursday’s School Board meeting resulted in major changes to CCSD. Superintendent Dr. Jesus Jara was terminated, while Board President Linda Cavazos’ termination proposal was tabled. “We have our whole district burning down around us,” Cavazos said. “This is something that no longer can be ignored. We must address it.” Photo Credit: Screenshot of Meeting

CCSD Superintendent Jesus Jara fired in a 4-3 vote

Tishie Nyitray
November 4, 2021
Decisions on the table for the future of CDSD at board meeting.
Working together juniors Nya Lewis and Rachel Ghelan begin their first project using donated costumes. Learning how to distress and convert clothing pieces into costumes, they work in teams to complete the look. “I love to see freshmen and people that aren’t in fashion to practice their ability hands on in a creative way,” senior Keisha Farrales said. “I love speaking with other members in the club and creating awesome designs while also practicing a really important skill.Photo Credit: Tishie Nyitray

Creating Show Worthy Costumes from Leftovers in Fashion Club

Tishie Nyitray
October 28, 2021
Students in FIDM Fashion Club learn how to distress clothing to revamp style.
During September 23rd’s meeting, the anti-racism policy and the teachers’ union concerns were brought up. In this upcoming meeting, tensions have risen as people disagree about the decisions of Superintendent Jara and Board President Cavazos. Photo Credit: Screenshot of Board Meeting

Agenda Breakdown for Thursday’s CCSD School Board Meeting

Tishie Nyitray
October 27, 2021
School board meeting agenda released and highlights future plans.
For most of their school lives, female students have to deal with the constant struggle of periods. At such a young age, it is hard for students to correctly track their menstrual cycles and the lack of period products available causes issues. “I think that everywhere I go, I will always need to carry extra products just in case,” sophomore Justyn Grayce Mocero said. “I’ve noticed that a lot of public restrooms do try to provide feminine products but you would usually have to pay for them & most of the time I don’t carry a few quarters with me.” Photo Credit: Naila Yazdani

Lack of Feminine Hygiene Products Causes Concern

Tishie Nyitray and Hannah Paine
October 15, 2021
Students can’t easily access period products and have to find other ways to deal with their issues.
At Thursday’s School Board meeting, teachers spoke about the current failure of the ccsd funding of insurance deficit. “I would've loved to teach for another 5-10 years, but I was tired of seeing other educators get ill or die too young from stress induced illnesses,” retired teacher Janet Clayton said. “I had to make a change to enjoy my life.” Photo Credit: Screenshot of meeting

Teachers’ Health Care Deficit cause for concern at CCSD School Board Meeting

Tishie Nyitray
September 29, 2021
Another school board meeting results in dispute
Mental health among teens has been a growing concern. With Care Solace's new outreach program, teens can have a new connection to health services. “I am just the person you can come to if you need help and they have hotlines,” Thomas said. “But for many students, it's the home, the parents would have to be the ones with that extra support so that students feel like they want to live. I can change a little bit, but it would have come from the family.” Photo Credit: Gurleen Swaich

Mental health crisis prompts CCSD policy change

Tishie Nyitray
September 7, 2021
In the wake of increasing suicides in CCSD, innovative steps are being taken to grapple with student depression.
The CCSD School Board of Trustees met Thursday night to cover several topics regarding masks, new busses and changing policies. They struggled to get through their agenda due to constant interruptions from the audience. “We are not going to have these disruptions,” Board President Linda Cavazos said. “I would like to hear those voices tonight.” Photo Credit: Screenshot of meeting

CCSD School Board Meeting met with interruptions from opponents of mask mandate

Tishie Nyitray
August 16, 2021

Thursday's CCSD School Board Meeting was met with nonstop COVID-19 and mask mandate opposition.   “I am sick to my stomach knowing that there are children that look up to you guys, they want...

Midterms and final exams would better show students knowledge and creativity if they were formatted as projects. Photo Credit: Firmbee.com

Pro/Con: Who said it was the easy way out?

Tishie Nyitray
May 17, 2021
Although tests are what teachers are used to, that doesn’t mean it’s what is best for students.
Hoping to finish the year off strong, students are preparing for final exams and teachers are wrapping up course content work. “After all the hard work everyone put in this year, I think everyone is excited for summer,” sophomore Luke Gil said. “So many things were different and we are looking towards a break.”

A Look Into Fourth Quarter

Tishie Nyitray
May 5, 2021
The final quarter has always brought challenges, this year is no different, with hybrid learning, graduation plans and AP exams
Podcast: Preparing for AP Exams

Podcast: Preparing for AP Exams

Tishie Nyitray and Hannah Paine
April 13, 2021
In this podcast, we discuss a few ways for students to study for their upcoming AP exams.
Founded in Cleveland, Ohio by singer-songwriter Dylan Baldi, American indie rock band Cloud Nothings released their ninth album The Shadow I Remember, with songs about pain, loss and new beginnings. Rating: B- Photo Credit: OneBeatPR

Get lost in the clouds with ‘The Shadow I Remember’

Tishie Nyitray
March 29, 2021
Indie rock band, Cloud Nothings is perfect for anyone looking to diversify their music taste.
After being out of sports for several long months, Superintendent Jesus Jara has allowed athletes to start training again as of April 5, 2021. Photo Credit: neONBRAND

PRO/CON: Are Spring Sports Really Worth It?

Tishie Nyitray
March 11, 2021
Student athletes are returning to sports as of April 5, but is this decision the best for everyone?
IN MY EYES: Xavier Guzman

IN MY EYES: Xavier Guzman

Tishie Nyitray
March 2, 2021
Take a look in the daily life of Xavier Guzman.
SOUTHWEST SHADOW ASKS: Alayna Bliven

SOUTHWEST SHADOW ASKS: Alayna Bliven

Tishie Nyitray
March 2, 2021
Alayna Bliven shares some fun facts about herself in a short video questionnaire.
Spark: Best Plants for Beginners

Spark: Best Plants for Beginners

Tishie Nyitray
February 23, 2021
Learn more about the easiest plants to take care of when starting your green thumb journey.
Students in Fashion II are learning from drag designer, Lyn Kream, about the importance and history of drag fashion. Kream has designed outfits for some of the most famous drag queens today, including Trixie Mattel. “My favorite memory has to be just being a part of helping people make their dreams come true, live their lives fully in the open, and share their art with others,” Kream said. “Whether it’s helping a queen get to Drag Race, costuming for a Pride event or helping a baby queen develop their character, drag has been such a wonderful part of my career. It’s truly life changing and affirming.” Photo Credit: Lyn Kream

Fashion II students learn about the impact of drag

Tishie Nyitray
February 18, 2021
Guest speaker has designed for a number of professional drag entertainers.
Infographic: Biden's First Days in Office

Infographic: Biden’s First Days in Office

Tishie Nyitray
February 9, 2021
After only two weeks in office, President Joe Biden has made significant changes in response to the ongoing pandemic to reversing Trump-era policies.
In efforts to make the information more engaging, students will be participating in project based learning. Students have done two other projects in the past, in which they have worked in groups. “I enjoy project based learning because I think it is a much more enjoyable way of learning and I feel I remember the information better and get more out of the assignment,” sophomore Samantha Phelan said. Photo Credit: Samantha Phelan

Chemistry 10 Honors students work together to create informational videos

Tishie Nyitray
February 3, 2021
Students participate in project-based learning, group work to inform people on chemical bonding.
INFOGRAPHIC: Religion's impact on teens

INFOGRAPHIC: Religion’s impact on teens

Tishie Nyitray
January 22, 2021
As teens grow up their values and practices of religion change. Wether it's changing religions or having a different view on religious matters, teens have a individualistic view on religion.
PODCAST: New year, new me

PODCAST: New year, new me

Tishie Nyitray and Hannah Paine
January 13, 2021
We discuss the importance of setting reachable goals, the steps you should take towards reaching it, and how a positive mindset can help you be successful.
At a young age freshman, Narek Tonoyan was inspired by his teacher, Mr. Thomas, to start coding. Through this creative inspiration, he discovered a new passion that he would be able to continue by attending SWCTA. “My coding teacher was a man named Mr. Thomas and he worked at my fifth grade elementary school, Lomie G. Heard Academy (previously Marzano Academy),” Tonoyan said. “He was a very nice and kind man, always trying his best to solve any issues we had, and if it hadn't been for him, I probably would not have taken the Digital Game Development as my career choice.” Photo Credit: Narek Tonoyan

Youngest Freshman: Meet Narek Tonoyan

Tishie Nyitray
December 8, 2020
Youngest freshman Narek Tonoyan shares his unique school experience before and during highschool.
Solve the mystery of Samsara Room by collecting items and clues in this fascinating game. Rating: A Photo Credit: Rusty Lake

Travel to a different world in ‘Samsara Room’

Tishie Nyitray
November 24, 2020
Gather the clues in order to escape in this unique game.
SPARK: Fall Fashion 2020

SPARK: Fall Fashion 2020

Tishie Nyitray
November 19, 2020
The biggest styles, trends and fashion elements for fall 2020.
INFOGRAPHIC: The Future of Generation Z Voting

INFOGRAPHIC: The Future of Generation Z Voting

Tishie Nyitray
November 3, 2020
This is the first year Generation Z will be voting. How will their vote make an impact?
Sophomores in Computer Science II begin learning the basics of Java, one of the most widely used programming languages in the industry. Students used Java in AP Computer Science but have been increasing their knowledge of it this year. “I am questioning pursuing programming as a career, but it sure is going to be good for the other things I am trying to do,” sophomore Liban Tuni said. Photo Credit: Liban Tuni

Computer science II students learn the basics of Java

Tishie Nyitray
November 3, 2020
Students in Computer Science II Honors are beginning to learn the basics of Java, a computing language that will be prevalent all throughout their career.
SPARK: Homemade Dog Treats

SPARK: Homemade Dog Treats

Tishie Nyitray
October 9, 2020
Reviewing three different DIY dog treats.
Enjoy homestyle breakfast at 'Babystacks Cafe'

Enjoy homestyle breakfast at ‘Babystacks Cafe’

Tishie Nyitray
October 2, 2020
Cuisine combines Hawaiian, Filipino and American flavors to create a diverse and delicious menu.
After releasing multiple singles this year, Hannah Georgas finally put out her fourth album in August. Each song tells a different story and the emotions that came with it. Rating: A Photo Credit: Dine Alone Records

Get into your feels with ‘All That Emotion’

Tishie Nyitray
September 25, 2020
Hannah Georgas’ new album is filled with intricate lyrics, calm instrumentals and packed with emotion.
IN MY EYES: Zella Hekkert

IN MY EYES: Zella Hekkert

Tishie Nyitray
September 17, 2020

Due to distance learning, we are unable to continue "An Hour In" for the time being. Instead, we have asked students to participate in a new segment, "In Our Eyes," that showcases important elements in...

Q&A: Do you think Labor Day celebrations will result in an increase in COVID-19 cases?

Q&A: Do you think Labor Day celebrations will result in an increase in COVID-19 cases?

Tishie Nyitray
September 12, 2020
With Labor Day having been this past Monday, we asked students if Labor Day would be the reason for an uptick in coronavirus cases.
SPARK: Five Chrome extensions for school

SPARK: Five Chrome extensions for school

Tishie Nyitray
September 9, 2020
Download these tools to help you succeed this year.