education

Local Coffee Shops

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by Annabelle Vollk

Caffeine is certainly a staple for students at GS. 

“I probably go about three times a week,” junior Andrea Morgan said.  

While the nearest Seven Brew location is in Latrobe, many GS students don’t mind the drive.  

 “My favorite drink is the cinnamon roll iced coffee,” Morgan said.  “It’s totally worth the drive.” 

Seven Brew opened on December 15 of 2025. Since then, it has provided employment opportunities and a new coffee stop for students in the area.  

It has become an every day essential for many students. The highly customizable drinks allow for a sense of personalization that is not available elsewhere.  

This month, the Cuties Coffee menu features Valentine’s and St. Patrick’s flavored drinks that have become popular among customers. 

Cutie’s Coffee Shop in Greensburg.

Photo By: Annabelle Volk

“I went a couple weeks ago and got something from the Valentine’s menu,” sophomore Bella Murphy said. “I got the Teddy Graham iced latte, and it was so good. The drink was really aesthetic, and the coffee shop itself has a really nice vibe that reminds me of Gilmore Girls.” 

Cuties Coffee has been open since October 14 of 2023. Since then, Cuties has received strong support from teens in the area.  

“I’ve been there multiple times, and it’s always been good,” Murphy said. “The ladies who make the drinks are always very sweet and welcoming.” 

Beyond fun drinks and an aesthetically pleasing environment, Cutie’s also has its own merchandise for sale. They offer everything from hoodies and coffee cups to stickers and bracelets.  

Caleese Coffee opened on October 30, 2025. 

“It was great,” junior Sophie Graft said. “The service was quick, the workers were polite and kind, and the environment was welcoming with lots of seating.”  

Similar to Cuties Coffee, they have had numerous holiday menu features and specialty drinks.  

Cutie’s Coffee merchandise hangs in the store.

Photo By: Annabelle Volk

“I really enjoyed their seasonal Carrot Cake Latte as well as their Banana Bread Latte,” Graft said. “The coffee was rich with good flavoring.” 

Recently, Caleese Coffee has gained support from many GS students due to its outstanding customer service and welcoming environment.  

“It was fantastic,” she said. “The workers were quick with the drink and were truly kind to make sure my order was perfect.”  

New coffee shops in the area allow students to try new things and hang out with friends.  

“Coffee always puts me in a good mood, no matter how bad my day is,” Murphy said. “I love that there are so many options around. They’re all so good.” 

Squirt Wars

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by Mae Grisenthwaite

With water guns in hand and pride on the line, students from all over take part in the high-stakes annual Squirt Wars.  

This yearly, student-funded game takes place each spring. Juniors and seniors can buy into the Squirt Wars competition with a partner, where each pair is assigned a target. Players have one week to eliminate their target using a water gun. If they fail to get their target out, they get eliminated from the game. 

“It’s fun and keeps everyone on their toes wondering who their target will be and who has them next,” junior Kylie Haines-Boles said.   

Squirt Wars, also known as Senior Assassin, has gained traction all across the United States in the last 10 years, with each high-school adding their own twist onto the game. 

“I know of tons of schools not just around us who do something like Squirt Wars,” junior Adrianna Adams said. “And I honestly like how the other schools do it differently.” 

This event is enjoyed by all kinds of students, giving each the chance to be part of something.  

Senior Isaiah Stillwagon and junior Adrianna Adams pose after eliminating junior Cody Wilson.

Photo By: Connor Wilson

“I think that it’s great that students are coming together to do Squirt Wars,” English Teacher Mrs. Mary Logan said. “I know there is a lot of work put into it and a lot is involved in doing the whole thing.” 

Each student involved has a chance to win the money that each participant paid to play, which for GS, is around $900. 

“It shouldn’t be about the money,” Adams said. “It should be about the experience and fun of the game.” 

Although this game brings opportunities of fun to the student body, it also pulls some students away from their academics.  

“I’ve had to stop class because of the heated conversations happening around Squirt Wars,” Mrs. Logan said. 

This does not only cause conflict inside the classroom, but outside the school gates too. 

“I feel like the game becomes a way for students to get revenge on others they don’t particularly like, to create new problems or just go to some extremes in order to win,” Logan said. 

These issues are not only seen by teachers, but also the organizers, Reese Price and Alex Swatchick. 

“Reese and I have tried to make the game fair and fun but there are always people who take it too far,” Swatchick said. 

In addition to running the game, organizers take on the responsibility of recognizing and addressing issues to help improve future competitions. 

“I would say in future years we could improve by being more strict with people who try to bend the rules,” Swatchick said.  

Although there is controversy surrounding Squirt Wars, the organizers still try their best to keep the game going. 

“At the end of the day we want the game to be fun for everyone involved,” Swatchick said. 

Despite the concern, Squirt Wars stays an important part of the high school experience, gaining more recognition every year. 

“Squirt Wars is a great way to make new friends, be more outgoing and have some fun at the end of a long year,” Haines-Boles said. 

48-Hour Film

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by Mae Grisenthwaite

Two GS students earned awards at the Digital Media Arts Consortium, highlighting the success of the school’s video production program.

The Digital Media Arts Consortium, also known as DMAC, is a program hosted by Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh. This allowed all schools around the Pittsburgh area to submit their own original videos, yearbook pages, newspaper pieces and photography pieces to compete in different categories. Every year schools who submitted into any of these categories convene in the RMU events center to collect respective awards.

“There are categories you’re going to win and lose and that’s just something you have to accept,” junior Addyson Mink said.

Senior Jacob Hugus and Mink earned a combination of awards including Best Editing, Best Cinematography and the Award of Excellence.

Senior Jacob Hughes poses with his award at Robert Morris University.

Photo Courtesy: Mr. King

“Winning the awards we did felt like such an accomplishment,” Mink said. “Being able to walk up on that stage and collect those awards was a giant win.”

Hugus personally won the DMAC Founder’s Award

“I had worked myself hard these last three years from when I started my sophomore year with no experience, so being recognized with the Founder Award makes it feel worth it,” Hugus said.

 The Founder’s Award goes out to a nominated senior student who has been involved in the DMAC competitions throughout high school.

“I knew I had big shoes to fill this year because of the seniors in my spot last year, so winning gave me a sense of closure,” he said. 

Mink personally won the Award of Excellence for her instructional video.

Junior Addyson Mink poses with her Award of Excellence in the Instructional Video category.

Photo Courtesy: Mr. King

“A lot goes into the makings of these videos so being recognized for it feels so freeing,” she said.

Her video on how to bake peanut butter cookies wowed not only their video productions teacher Mr. Matthew King, but also the judges at DMAC.

“They were a fun and neat group to watch work and plan for this,” Mr. King said.

King has taught Mink and Hugus for a couple years now, so seeing them win meant a lot to him.    

“I was super proud of them,” King said. “They did an amazing job not only at this event, but also in class.”

Field Trips

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by Abby Romeo

For most GS students, field trips aren’t just about missing class, they’re a chance to experience what they are learning about.  

For some, the experience goes beyond academics and creates memories with classmates.  

“Anytime I go on a field trip, I find a great crew of people, “senior Rocco 

Himes said. “We have an amazing time.”  

 Students value the educational experience that may be difficult to experience in a classroom. 

“They provide so much educational experience that you can’t do inside a classroom,” sophomore Ava Richards said. “It’s also nice to take what you’re learning outside the classroom.”  

Students take field trips to their advantage to explore new environments, connect with their peers, and an experience lessons in a more interactive setting.  

“Field trips open up the doors of learning wide open,” Rocco Himes said. “You can talk to people in a career field, that you’re learning about and see the objects that you’re learning about in the real world.” 

A field trip can consist of a full day of school, or a return late at night.  

“It’s a nice break from the everyday grind of school,” Himes said. “It also enables us to learn in a new and different way.”  

Teachers are heavily involved with the field trips and have a big impact.  

“I mainly focus on the students that are interested,” Science Teacher Mrs. Cheryl Harper said. “I choose students who I think would enjoy it and benefits their education.”  

Physics students pose at Penn State for the nuclear reactor field trip.

Photo Courtesy: Zachary Van Horn

Teachers also value the thought of the education side of the field trip. Students often learn more and gather more information from field trips.  

“Most field trips connect as a broad span of things,” Mrs. Harper said. “We’ve experienced many field trips that consisted of metal programs and science.”  

The educational experience of learning is more hands-on, but most remember it as a memory.  

“I want field trips to be something that students receive good memories from,” 

Harper said. “It’s nice for the extra fun add-ons, instead of sitting in a desk.”  

The energy and curiosity sparked during field trips can be reflected in daily instruction.  

“I focus on what is exciting and interesting about a field trip and how can we incorporate that same level of excitement and motivation into our regular classroom lessons,” Art Teacher Darryl Audia said.  

Gas Prices on the Rise

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by Reese Price

As the conflict between the United States and Iran continues, rising oil price are making everyday costs, like gas, more expensive for Americans.

Over the past several weeks, tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated into a major conflict, with fighting and failed peace talks creating uncertainty across the globe. One of the biggest impacts has been on energy, particularly oil, which directly affects how much people are paying at the gas pump.

“I have never really been one to worry about gas prices and I never really noticed a difference in the amount I was putting into my tank until recently,” senior Julie Elias said. “It makes me not want to drive anywhere as much because I know how expensive gas is right now.” 

A key reason gas prices have been rising is because of the global oil markets. In March, the national average price for gas rose above $4 per gallon for the first time in many years. The price has risen more than $1 since before the conflict began.

A picture of the Gas Buddy App showing the prices at local gas stations.

Photo By: Reese Price

“One of the worst experiences you can have is when 40% of your income as a high schooler is going into your gas tank just to get you to school and work,” senior Jeremiah Faulk said.

When conflict threatens oil shipments, oil prices rise quickly, and those increases eventually show up at gas stations across the nation. Even though America produces much of its own oil, it still relies on other countries to provide shipments. This means that what happens overseas can greatly affect the prices in the United States.

“I have a long commute, so I fill my tank every 5-6 days,” History and Psychology Teacher Mrs. Beth Simone said. “Driving to school is a need, so I continue to fill the tank. It is definitely costing me more the last few months.”

For high school students, these rising costs can add to the financial burdens they face on a day-to-day basis. Many students drive themselves to school, sports practices and jobs, making it hard to utilize their cars as little as possible. With gas prices climbing, even short commutes to school can become more expensive.

“I have not bought as much recently because I know I need to save money for my gas,” Elias said. “I’m not really happy with how high the prices are.”

Students who also work part-time jobs are setting aside a larger portion of their paycheck towards gas. For some, these prices can affect their work hours and how much time they have for other extracurriculars. 

“I have been in a situation where I’m exploring different job opportunities because of the rise in price,” Faulk said. “Where I’m working, I’m not making enough just to afford getting there and doing things that I want to.”

GS bussing systems are also affected by these gas prices. Higher transportation costs can impact bus systems, field trips and extracurricular travel. Budgets may have to be adjusted to keep up with the fuel prices while also maintaining efficient travel systems.

“Who pays for that increased cost depends on their contractual agreements,” Mrs. Simone said. “If there was already a negotiated agreement for service rates, the bus company will pay more and lose profit.”

The conflict between the United States and Iran still remains unpredictable. While ceasefire talks and negotiations are still being settled, there are many setbacks that continue to push gas prices up, making it more challenging for everyone in the United States.

“Unfortunately, I know that based on economic principles, even if it was resolved today, gas prices would not immediately drop to their prior levels,” Simone said. “With the significant impacts on the supply chain, it will take a while before consumers actually see relief.”

APPLES and Speech and Debate Competitions

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by Grace Cardoni

From mastering foreign language to perfecting arguments, GS students went above and beyond at the APPLES competition as well as the Speech and Debate State event. 

The APPLES competition held on March 21 brought together students in grades eight through 12 from across the area to compete in a variety of academic and creative language events of the students’ choice.

 “Students compete in four main categories,” Spanish teacher Ms. Miranda Filak said. “It is reading, writing, speaking, listening along with creative categories like art, music and dancing.”

Participation at GS continues to grow, with around 30 to 40 students attending this year between French and Spanish classes anywhere from level one to six. 

 APPLES students posing at IUP before their competition.

Photo Courtesy: Ms. Miranda Filak

“We filled up pretty much a school bus,” French teacher Mrs. Stephanie Grace said. “Several students earned top honors, including winners who placed first overall.”

Junior Alyssa Barber, who has attended APPLES since eighth grade, shared the competition isn’t just about being the best but also the experience of being outside of a language classroom. 

“I enjoy getting to see all the different language performances at the end of APPLES as it’s not something that you get to see all the time in language classes,” Barber said. “It is super fun to be able to use your language skills to talk to someone you’ve never met before.” 

While language students were competing at APPLES, members of the Speech and Debate team were preparing for their own major competition at the state level the very same weekend.

“I’m really happy with how far the team went this year,” junior Speech and Debate member Emily Ziska said. “I’d really love to get even farther next year.”

Speech and Debate offers a wide range of events, from traditional style debates to performance-based categories, allowing students to explore what they are the most passionate about. 

“These different events focus anywhere from dramatic interpretation of poetry, or it could be actual debate,” Speech and Debate Advisor Mrs. Mary Logan said. “Students can write their own speeches or choose an event where they get 30 minutes of prep and put together a speech there.”

Speech and Debate students posing with their State Qualifying stickers.

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Mary Logan

Many students don’t initially join with a strong interest in Speech and Debate, rather a variety of other motivations. 

“Students who join Speech and Debate do it for different reasons,” Mrs. Logan said. “Some of them just love to act; they want to make you feel what they feel through that poetry or speech. Some students do it because their friends did.”

Beyond competition, the program focuses on personal growth and pushing students out of their comfort zone in order to better themselves in things like public speaking. 

 “The goal of it is to force students to understand the importance of organization and how to deliver content in very different ways,” Logan said. “In our country, looking somebody in the eye and talking to them is something we value.”

Although they differ in focus, both the APPLES and Speech and Debate teams excelled in their respective areas and representing GS with pride. 

“I think what we are doing here at GS is more than just winning competitions,” Mrs. Grace said. “Students are gaining skills that extend far beyond the classroom.”

Senior Status

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by Reese Price

As the fourth nine weeks begins, the countdown to graduation becomes more real for seniors.

For some students, the answer to their next steps comes easy. They’ve committed to a college, trade school, enlisted in the military or secured a job. But for many others, the question brings more stress than excitement.

“When students come to me feeling this way, the first thing I remind them is that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right now,” Guidance Counselor Mrs. Laura Klipa said. “There’s a lot of pressure to make decisions that feel permanent, but the truth is, most people’s paths change over time.”

Across high schools, it’s common for a significant amount of seniors to feel uncertain at this point of the year. Many seniors feel like they’re the only ones unsure of future plans, but this is far from the truth. Seniors are all tasked with hard decisions during this time and many students are not fully prepared for the next step.

“Your first step after graduation does not lock you into the rest of your life,” Mrs. Klipa said. “What matters most is that it’s a thoughtful decision, not a perfect one.”

College decision day is May 1, 2026. Many seniors at GS will participate in showing off their college commitments by wearing merchandise or representing their future in one way or another. Senior Class President Ella Helman runs the class of 2026 Instagram page where students can submit their decisions and be recognized for their next steps.

Senior Ella Helman poses during Penn State admitted students day in the Hetzel Union Building.

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Helman

“Being the Senior Class President, I am beyond proud of my peers and their accomplishments,” Helman said. “I love how everyone is going different places and they are all going after what they want for their future. It’s really cool to see the diversity in majors and the different interests everyone has.”

As spring progresses, some seniors are still waiting on decisions from colleges, trade schools or employers. This uncertainty can add to the stress of the final months in high school.  

“Many opportunities are given to students who commit to universities earlier, and with some decisions from my schools not coming until March, it caused stress in wondering if I’d be able to afford those opportunities because I waited,” senior Ian Smith said.

For some, this waiting period heightens the excitement when an acceptance letter finally arrives, while for others, a deferral or rejection can steer them onto an unexpected path, forcing them to rethink their next steps.

“I had an interesting college journey, but I learned so much from it,” Helman said. “At first I was disappointed with Penn State, but then I changed my perspective and viewed it as a sign that this was where I needed to be for my future.”

No matter the path, each senior is moving forward in their own way. While some may have everything planned out and others are still figuring out the details, the end goal of succeeding remains the same.

“While my college journey had many ups and downs, I ultimately know I ended exactly where I needed to be and I am so excited for what my future holds,” Helman said.

Taste of Greensburg

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by Abby Romeo

As summer break approaches, GS students are already planning their go-to food stops, ranging from local favorites to hidden gems around town.  

“Definitely Edo Hibachi behind the mall,” junior Kylie Haines Boles said. “I could eat it all day.”  

Kylie Haines Boles

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Bar 9 is my most favorite,” History teacher Mr. Nick DeMary said. “The burgers are scrumptious.”  

Mr. Nick DeMary

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Greengate Chick-fil-A,” sophomore Solomon Cain said. “It’s my go-to.”  

Solomon Cain

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Wingstop is pretty good,” sophomore Orion Leone said. “It’s a chill spot to eat with your friends.” 

Orion Leone

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Parkwood is my family’s favorite,” junior Addyson Shearer said. “Amazing food and service.”  

Addyson Shearer

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Chick-fil-A for sure,” senior Sarah Ruggeri said. “I like the chicken nuggets.”  

Sarah Ruggeri

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“El Diablo is a good hit,” Business teacher Mr. Lou Downey said. “They have a lot of gluten free options for my wife.”  

Mr. Lou Downey

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Mr. Tokyo is my all-time favorite,” junior Amir Taylor said. “They have really good Chinese and dumplings.” 

Amir Taylor

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“New City Buffet,” sophomore Brayden Miller said. “Very cheap, but amazing food.”  

Brayden Miller

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Tastyland,” sophomore Easton Phillips said. “I love supporting small businesses.”  

Easton Phillips

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Chick-fil-A,” sophomore Jillian Kaboly said. “I only eat Chick-fil-A when I’m out.” 

Jillian Kaboly

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“3-Natives,” sophomore Hannah Weber said. “It’s very good; I love smoothies.”  

Hannah Weber

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Oliver’s Pourhouse,” sophomore Derek Herring said. “I love the smash burgers.”  

Derek Herring

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“Sunset Italian Resturant,” junior Lauren Anderson said. “They have good Italian Food.”  

Lauren Anderson

Photo by: Abby Romeo

“New City Buffet,” junior Brody Chismar. “It’s the spot.”  

Brody Chismar

Photo by: Abby Romeo

Mr. GS

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

by Mae Grisenthwaite

Nine seniors made a break from jail at Mr. GS this year, booking it to steal the spotlight. 

Led by the GS Student Council Association, this club-funded event gave the participants the opportunity to win free prom tickets, a gift card and or a suit from MB Prom. Along with this, MB Prom also donated suits to all participants in the Mr. GS competition. 

“For MB Prom to donate to the entire cast of Mr. GS is very generous,” SCA advisor Mr. Christopher Gazze said. 

 Each year SCA picks the theme for the event, adding an extra element of fun. 

“Before we left for the [last] school year, we came up with a theme,” Mr. Gazze said. “The theme must be something that the opening video can fit with, along with the music, dancing and the casual wear section, too.” 

Mr. GS was held on March 6 in the High School auditorium as it has for the past eight years. 

“It’s just a fun night for the community,” Gazze said. “If you get a big crowd, a lot of energy and a group of people who are willing to participate, it gives everyone a chance to be part of something.” 

The cast of Mr.GS claps for Braedon Poole after he was announced as Mr. GS, Mr. Congeniality and Fan Favorite.

Photo By: Gabi Elentri

The cast of Mr. GS this year was made up of nine senior guys with unique talents.  

“A lot of thought and time went into all aspects of the show,” senior Braden Poole said. 

Each senior individually took center stage showing the crowd their talents, hoping to take home the title of Mr. GS and the prizes that came with it. 

Poole said that all the talent and skit ideas were “creative and over the top,” adding a bit of fun for both the crowd and participants. 

Tobyn Anderson, Austin Brown, Rocco Himes, AJ Lehnhardt, Raymond Yurko, Tanner Schmidt, Alex Swatchick, Henry Weimann and Poole hit the stage at 7:30 pm. 

“I reminded myself through the show to make sure to keep the crowd excited,” Poole said.  

Senior Braedon Poole sings Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer”

for the talent portion of the competition.

Photo by: Gabi Elentri

Each contestant performed then answered a question given by SCA president Ian Smith and member Marley Perrone. 

“I really enjoyed the last bit where they were in their formal wear and they had to answer a question,” Mr. Dylan Rinehart said.  

With each performance Mr. Kerry Dieter, Mr. Jeremy Lenzi and Mr. Rinehart judged, making note of who they believed deserved the title of Mr. GS for the 2026 school year. 

“The guys had lots of great talent and lots of personality, so it was very difficult judging,” Rinehart said. 

Poole wowed not only the crowd, but the judges, too, taking home the label of Mr. GS 2026, Fan Favorite and Mr. Congeniality. 

“Thank you to everyone who attended and to all the staff and faculty for making it happen,” Poole said. “I’m honored to be the winner.” 

Mini-THON is Quickly Approaching

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by Grace Cardoni

GS Mini-THON is shining hope to infinity and beyond in the fight against pediatric cancer.  

  On March 28, the 11th annual Mini-THON will take place in the gym, where GS students and community join to celebrate the fundraising efforts made throughout the year.   

  “Mini-THON means a small community coming together to make a big difference for people when they need it the most,” junior Mini-THON member Anna Sybesma said.   

Mini-THON began at GS in 2015, inspired by Penn State’s THON event. Both are a part of a nationwide effort connected to Four Diamonds—an organization dedicated to fighting pediatric cancer through funding research and supporting affected families.   

“Funds raised help to cover medical bills and other expenses that cause stress during such a difficult time so that family can focus on what matters most” junior member Reese Pittler said.  

Mini-THON at GS is led by a team of upperclassmen who work hard to host smaller events throughout the school year to spread awareness and fundraise for the grand reveal on the night of the big event. 

Students fundraise by canning near the Seton Hill Dance Center in Greensburg.

Photo Courtesy: Reese Pittler

“There are a lot of things that go into planning,” senior Overall Team Lead Rhea Outly said. “Like organizing activities, communicating with teachers and students and making sure all things run smoothly for the night of.”  

This year’s leadership team faced unique challenges being down four positions compared to years past.  

“I think that this year’s team has done a good job of navigating that kind of uncharted territory,” Senior Project Advisor Mr. Matthew Boe said. “It ultimately creates just a little bit more work for all of the seniors involved. It doesn’t allow them to dive nearly as deep as years past.”  

Mini-THON helpers pose by Santa for the Breakfast With Santa event held in the cafeteria.

Photo Courtesy: Courtney Paul Photography

Even with these challenges, student involvement remains one of the most important parts of the organization. Leaders hope to continue building interest among younger students so the tradition will carry on  

“Getting more out to younger kids is one of the biggest things,” Sybesma said. “Making sure underclassmen know what Mini-THON is and continuing the tradition for when it is their turn is what we really try to focus on.”   

For many involved, Mini-THON is more than just a fundraiser or a tradition to carry on. It is an opportunity for students to make a real difference in the lives of others.  

“I think that it provides avenues for helping others without expecting anything in return,” Mr. Boe said. “And I think that that speaks volumes about character and leadership and the different pillars that we try to support at Greensburg Salem.”